United States 

Department of 

Agriculture

Forest

Service

August 2011

Final Environmental

Impact Statement

Travel Management Project

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National

Grassland

Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook, Klamath, Lake, Grant and Wheeler Counties, Oregon

United States 

Department of

Agriculture

Forest 

Service

Region 6

August 2010

Final Environmental 

Impact Statement

Travel Management 

Project 

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National 

Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 

Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook, Klamath, Lake, 

Grant and Wheeler Counties, Oregon

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the 

basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, 

parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or 

part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases apply 

to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program 

information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 

(voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400

Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or (202) 720-

6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement 

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland i 

Travel Management Project, Deschutes National 

Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and the Crooked 

River National Grassland 

Lead Agency: USDA Forest Service 

Responsible Officials: John P. Allen, Forest Supervisor 

Deschutes National Forest 

1001 SW Emkay Drive 

Bend, OR 97702 

Kathleen Klein, Forest Supervisor 

Ochoco National Forest 

3160 N.E. 3rd Street 

Prineville, OR 97754 

For Information Contact: Mollie Chaudet or Susan Skakel 

Deschutes National Forest 

1001 SW Emkay Dr. 

Bend, OR 97702 541-383- 5300 

Abstract: In accordance with 36 CFR 212, 251, 261, and 295, the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the 

Crooked River National Grassland propose to prohibit motorized travel1 outside of those existing previously 

designated routes (roads and trails) and areas-where it is not already restricted or prohibited by law, regulation, 

policy, order, Forest Plan direction, or site-specific decision2

. Some mineral material sources that currently do not 

prohibit motorized access off designated routes (cross-country travel) would be designated as open to cross-country 

travel. The Proposed Action would not close motorized public access on any roads currently designated as open 

(Forest Service maintenance level two or above). However, a few designated roads, which currently allow for both 

highway-legal and non-highway-legal vehicles, would prohibit use by non-highway-legal vehicles based on the results 

of the Forests’ motorized mixed use analysis. In order to eliminate minor inconsistencies between the beginning and 

ending seasons of use periods, some modifications would also be made. Existing designated routes and areas for 

motorized use according to the season of use (time of year the route and/or area is open for use) and class of vehicle 

(highway-legal or non-highway-legal) are identified on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River 

National Grassland Proposed Action maps. 

In accordance with provisions of the Travel Management Rule, the Proposed Action would allow for motorized access 

solely for the purpose of dispersed camping within 300 feet of the centerline of designated routes shown on the 

Proposed Action maps. The conditions for motorized access within 300 feet of the centerline of a designated route 

would, in accordance with the General Provisions, as described in the Travel Management Rule, be limited to those 

classes of vehicles and seasons of use that apply to the adjacent designated route. Motorized access for dispersed 

camping from some designated routes would be subject to Special Provisions. Proposed Special Provisions would 

allow motorized access within 300 feet of the centerline of a designated route for those classes of vehicles and 

seasons of use that apply to the designated route only for the purpose of accessing designated, defined, or existing 

dispersed campsites. Designated sites are marked with a sign; defined sites limit motorized access with boulders or 

wood structures; and existing sites have established fire rings or other evidence of historic use. Motorized vehicles 

would not be permitted to cross streams except on designated routes in order to access sites. In riparian areas, 

motorized access to existing (not designated or defined) sites would be prohibited within 30 feet of the edge of a 

water body, wetland, or stream course. 

If you have requested a copy of the Final Environmental Impact Statement or a compact disc, we will be automatically 

sending you one if it is not included in this mailing. Otherwise, all documents are also available on the Internet in PDF 

format at: http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/centraloregon/travel-mgmt/

 

1

 Over the snow vehicles are excluded from this proposed action 

2

 This includes past decisions to close or decommission National Forest System road that may not have been implemented 

through physical barriers or signing, or where the closure method was limited to not conducting routine maintenance activities.
ii Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 

Appeal Information

The appeal period begins the day following the date the legal notice of the decision is published in The Bulletin, Bend, 

Oregon, the official newspaper of record. The Notice of Appeal must be filed with the Reviewing Officer at: 

Appeal Deciding Officer, Pacific Northwest Region, USDA Forest Service 

Attn. 1570 Appeals, 333 S.W. First Avenue, PO Box 3623, Portland, OR 97208-3623 

Appeals can also be filed electronically at: appeals-pacificnorthwest-regional-office@fs.fed.us or hand-delivered to 

the above address between 7:45 AM and 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday except legal holidays. It can also be faxed 

to 503-808-2339. The appeal must be postmarked within 45 days of the date the legal notice for this decision appears 

in the Bend Bulletin newspaper. The publication date of the legal notice in the Bend Bulletin newspaper is the 

exclusive means for calculating the time to file an appeal and those wishing to appeal should not rely on dates or 

timeframes provided by any other source. 

Electronic appeals must be submitted as part of the actual e-mail message, or as an attachment in Microsoft Word 

(.doc), rich text format (.rtf) or portable document format (.pdf) only. E-mails submitted to e-mail addresses other than 

the one listed above or in other formats than those listed or containing viruses will be rejected. 

It is the responsibility of those who expressed an interest during the comment period and wish to appeal a decision to 

provide the Regional Forester sufficient written evidence and rationale to show why the decision should be changed 

or reversed. The appeal must be filed with the Appeal Deciding Officer (§ 215.8) in writing. At a minimum, an appeal 

must include the following: 

1. Appellant's name and address (§ 215.2), with a telephone number, if available; 

2. Signature or other verification of authorship upon request (a scanned\ signature for electronic mail may be 

filed with the appeal); 

3. When multiple names are listed on an appeal, identification of the lead appellant (§ 215.2) and verification of 

the identity of the lead appellant upon request; 

4. The name of the project or activity for which the decision was made, the name and title of the Responsible 

Official, and the date of the decision; 

5. The regulation under which the appeal is being filed, when there is an option to appeal under either this part 

or part 251, subpart C (§ 215.11(d)); 

6. Any specific change(s) in the decision that the appellant seeks and rationale for those changes; 

7. Any portion(s) of the decision with which the appellant disagrees, and explanation for the disagreement; 

8. Why the appellant believes the Responsible Official’s decision failed to consider the comments and; 

9. How the appellant believes the decision specifically violates law, regulation, or policy. 

Contact Persons 

For additional information concerning the specific activities authorized with this decision, you may contact Mollie 

Chaudet, Susan Skakel on the Deschutes National Forest at the Forest Headquarters Office (541-383-5300; 1001 

SW Emkay Drive Bend, OR) or contact Marcy Anderson on the Ochoco National Forest at the Forest Headquarters 

Office ( 541-416-6500; 3160 N.E. 3rd Street Prineville, OR). 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland iii

Table of Contents

Table of Contents................................................................................................................... iii

List of Tables.......................................................................................................................... vii

List of Figures ........................................................................................................................ xii

Summary of the Final Environmental Impact Statement ...........................................................xvi

Introduction ..........................................................................................................................xvi

Purpose and Need.................................................................................................................xvi

Decision Framework .......................................................................................................... xvii

Key issues identified during project scoping...................................................................... xviii

Areas Open to Cross-country Travel............................................................................... xviii

Areas Designated As Open to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping ....................... xviii

Inventoried Roadless Areas...............................................................................................xix

Alternatives Considered .......................................................................................................xix

Alternative 1-No action/No change ...................................................................................xix

Elements Common to Alternatives 2 (Proposed Action) and 3...........................................xix

Alternative 2 (Proposed Action)......................................................................................... xx

Alternative 3 ...................................................................................................................... xx

Other Alternatives Considered ........................................................................................... xx

Summary of Effects by Resource Area .................................................................................xxi

Recreation.........................................................................................................................xxi

Congressionally Designated Areas....................................................................................xxi

Social and Economics..................................................................................................... xxii

Scenery........................................................................................................................... xxii

Inventoried Roadless Areas............................................................................................. xxii

Other Undeveloped Areas.............................................................................................. xxiii

Transportation and Public Safety.................................................................................... xxiii

Fisheries ........................................................................................................................ xxiii

Hydrology....................................................................................................................... xxiv

Geology and Minerals..................................................................................................... xxiv

Soils................................................................................................................................. xxv

Native Vegetation ............................................................................................................ xxv

Invasive Vegetation......................................................................................................... xxvi

Vegetation Management Activities and Wildfires............................................................ xxvi

Wildlife........................................................................................................................... xxvi

Range and Livestock Management.................................................................................xxvii

Fire Risk ...................................................................................................................... xxviii

Heritage ....................................................................................................................... xxviii

Air Quality...................................................................................................................... xxix

Climate ........................................................................................................................... xxix

Cumulative Effects.......................................................................................................... xxix

Chapter 1. Purpose and Need for Action......................................................................................1

Document Structure.................................................................................................................1

Background .............................................................................................................................2

Purpose and Need for Action...................................................................................................4

Proposed Action......................................................................................................................6

Decision Framework ...............................................................................................................8
Table of Contents

iv Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Public Involvement .................................................................................................................8

Website, Newsletters, Newspapers, and other Media Coverage .......................................... 10

What We Have Heard ........................................................................................................ 10

Issues.................................................................................................................................... 12

Significant Issues............................................................................................................... 12

Issues outside the Scope of the Proposed Action ................................................................ 22

Other Activities That Could Affect Motorized Access........................................................ 25

Chapter 2. Alternatives, including the Proposed Action............................................................. 33

Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 33

Understanding this Chapter ................................................................................................... 33

Maps of the Alternatives.................................................................................................... 33

Motorized Access Not Affected by the Proposed Action .................................................... 33

Alternatives Considered in Detail....................................................................................... 33

Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Study............................................. 34

Comparison of the Alternatives.......................................................................................... 34

Maps of the Alternatives ....................................................................................................... 34

Overview, Motorized Mixed Use and Inventoried Roadless Area Maps ............................. 34

Maps of Motorized Access off Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel) ......................... 35

Maps of Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping ............................................................ 35

Motor Vehicle Use Map..................................................................................................... 36

Motorized Access Not Affected by the Proposed Action ....................................................... 36

Exemptions or Exceptions Identified by the Travel Management Rule ............................... 36

Alternatives Considered in Detail.......................................................................................... 39

Alternative 1 No-Action / No-Change ................................................................................ 39

Alternatives 2 and 3 ........................................................................................................... 40

Alternative 2 ...................................................................................................................... 46

Alternative 3 ...................................................................................................................... 47

Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Study ................................................ 47

Comparison of Alternatives................................................................................................... 49

Chapter 3. Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences......................................... 61

Analysis Assumptions........................................................................................................... 61

General Assumptions......................................................................................................... 61

Data Sources...................................................................................................................... 65

Recreation............................................................................................................................. 66

Executive Summary ........................................................................................................... 66

Affected Environment........................................................................................................ 67

Analysis of Environmental Effects..................................................................................... 84

Congressionally Designated Areas ........................................................................................ 97

Executive Summary ........................................................................................................... 97

Affected Environment........................................................................................................ 98

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 101

Social and Economic Analysis............................................................................................. 107

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 107

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 110

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 139

Inventoried Roadless Areas................................................................................................. 148
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland v 

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 148

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 149

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 153

Other Undeveloped Areas and Potential Wilderness Inventory ............................................ 164

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 164

Affected Environment – Citizens Inventoried Roadless Areas – No Specific Location 

Identified ......................................................................................................................... 164

Analysis of Environmental Effects – Citizens Inventoried Roadless Areas – No Specific 

Location Identified........................................................................................................... 165

Affected Environment – Citizens Inventoried Roadless Areas – Specifically Identified Area 

of Interest......................................................................................................................... 166

Analysis of Environmental Effects – Specifically Identified Area of Interest.................... 169

Transportation..................................................................................................................... 170

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 170

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 171

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 177

Public Safety....................................................................................................................... 178

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 178

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 178

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 180

Fisheries.............................................................................................................................. 181

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 181

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 182

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 190

Hydrology........................................................................................................................... 210

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 210

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 210

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 216

Geology and Minerals......................................................................................................... 234

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 234

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 234

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 240

Soils.................................................................................................................................... 246

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 246

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 247

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 250

Native Vegetation................................................................................................................ 258

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 258

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 258

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 266

Invasive Plants.................................................................................................................... 278

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 278

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 279

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 280

Vegetation Management Activities and Wildfires................................................................ 288

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 288
Table of Contents

vi Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 288

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 292

Wildlife............................................................................................................................... 294

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 294

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 295

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 302

Comparison of Alternatives.............................................................................................. 311

Range.................................................................................................................................. 319

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 319

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 319

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 323

Fire Risk ............................................................................................................................. 327

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 327

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 327

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 332

Air Quality and the Clean Air Act ....................................................................................... 333

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 333

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 334

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 336

Heritage Resources.............................................................................................................. 337

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 337

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 338

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 341

Scenery Resources .............................................................................................................. 345

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 345

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 346

Existing Condition ........................................................................................................... 349

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 352

Climate Change................................................................................................................... 362

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 362

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 363

Analysis of Environmental Effects................................................................................... 365

Cumulative Effects.............................................................................................................. 366

Executive Summary ......................................................................................................... 366

Affected Environment...................................................................................................... 367

Analysis of Cumulative Effects........................................................................................ 373

Other Required Disclosures................................................................................................. 374

Short-term Uses and Long-term Productivity ................................................................... 374

Unavoidable Adverse Effects........................................................................................... 374

Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Resources................................................. 375

Incomplete and Unavailable Information.......................................................................... 375

Energy Requirements of Alternatives............................................................................... 376

Prime Farmlands, Range Land, and Forest Land .............................................................. 376

Effects on Laws, Regulations, Plans, Policies, and Procedures......................................... 377

Chapter 4. Consultation and Coordination ............................................................................... 387

Preparers and Contributors.................................................................................................. 387
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland vii

Interdisciplinary Team Members...................................................................................... 387

Federal, State, and Local Agencies................................................................................... 392

Tribes............................................................................................................................... 394

Distribution of the Final Environmental Impact Statement................................................... 395

Federal, Tribal, State, Local Governments, Groups, and Individuals................................. 396

References .............................................................................................................................. 409

Glossary.................................................................................................................................. 437

Index....................................................................................................................................... 461

Appendix A - Maps................................................................................................................. 464

Appendix E – Letters from Agencies....................................................................................... 477

List of Tables

Table 1. Road management decisions: - 1990-2009 ................................................................... 31

Table 2. Proposed Forest Plan amendments for season of use.................................................... 45

Table 3. Acres open to cross-country travel (% of total forest acres).......................................... 50

Table 4. Acres of motorized access for dispersed camping (% of total forest acres)................... 50

Table 5. Expected change in roads open to motorized mixed use............................................... 51

Table 6. Travel Management Issue Comparison Summary ........................................................ 52

Table 7. Larger affected areas by motorized access for dispersed camping and motorized access 

on designated routes for Alternatives 1-3 ........................................................................... 64

Table 8. Deschutes and Ochoco ROS classes............................................................................. 68

Table 9. Central Oregon designated OHV areas......................................................................... 72

Table 10. Selected OHV recreation sites and areas in Oregon.................................................... 74

Table 11. Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest activity participation and primary activity 

(NVUMa) and national user participation (NSREa) in comparable recreation activities....... 76

Table 12. Deschutes and Ochoco NFs National Forest System acres within 1/2 mile of open 

roads.................................................................................................................................. 77

Table 13. Central Oregon off-highway vehicle use study data ................................................... 79

Table 14. Demographic visitation data ...................................................................................... 80

Table 15. Secondary activities reported by primary OHV users in the Pacific Northwest Region 

of the Forest Servicea ......................................................................................................... 80

Table 16. Frequency of motorized trail participation in Oregon among households reporting 

OHV participationa............................................................................................................. 81

Table 17. Trends in participation for selected outdoor recreational activities in the United States, 

1999-2008, by number of participants, and number of daysa............................................... 82

Table 18. Participation in some dispersed recreational activities in the Pacific Region, and 

projection index for participation in 2010, 2020, and 2050 (Cordell et al. 1999)................. 83

Table 19. Number of days of some dispersed recreation activities in the Pacific Region, and 

projection index for participation in 2010, 2020, and 2050 (Cordell et.al. 1999)................. 83

Table 20. Recreation opportunity spectrum (ROS) settings outside designated wilderness......... 85

Table 21. Expected change in motorized mixed use................................................................... 89

Table 22. Acres open to cross-country travel (% of total forest acres)........................................ 90

Table 23. Acres of motorized access for dispersed campinga (% of total forest acres)................ 91

Table 24. Deschutes and Ochoco wild and scenic rivers - outstandingly remarkable values....... 98
Table of Contents

viii Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 25. Acres of wilderness areas that are partially or entirely in the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests................................................................................................................. 99

Table 26. Congressionally Designated Areas (CDA) ............................................................... 100

Table 27. Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and county lands ....................................... 110

Table 28. Actual population of counties and cities in tri-county area 1990-2005 ...................... 114

Table 29. Tri county and State growth rates 2000-2008 ........................................................... 115

Table 30. Population by age and gender within the four county area........................................ 116

Table 31. Population by race in the region............................................................................... 116

Table 32. Hispanic population composition............................................................................. 117

Table 33. Poverty by Countya.................................................................................................. 117

Table 34. People with Disabilities - Percent of Population....................................................... 118

Table 35. Percent of population and number of people age 16+ participating in off-highway 

vehicle recreation, by demographic category, 1999-2007, Pacific Regiona

........................ 119

Table 36. Central Oregon off-highway vehicle use study data ................................................. 129

Table 37. Secondary activities reported by primary OHV users in the Pacific Northwest Region 

of the Forest Servicea ....................................................................................................... 130

Table 38. Trends in number of people participating and number of participation days for selected 

outdoor recreation activities in the United States, 1999-2008 ........................................... 130

Table 39. Participation in some dispersed recreation activities in the Pacific Region, and 

projection index for participation in 2010, 2020 and 2050 (Cordell et al. 1999:326-349) .. 131

Table 40. Number of days some dispersed recreation activities in the Pacific Region, and 

projection index for participation in 2010, 2020 and 2050 (Cordell et al. 1999:326-349) .. 132

Table 41. Jobs in 2006............................................................................................................. 137

Table 42. Acres open to cross-country travel and for dispersed camping in Inventoried Roadless 

Areas ............................................................................................................................... 151

Table 43. Miles of National Forest System Roads within Inventoried Roadless Areas............. 152

Table 44. Alternative 2 - acres open to cross-country travel and for dispersed camping in 

inventoried roadless areas ................................................................................................ 155

Table 45. Alternative 3 - acres open to cross-country travel and for dispersed camping in 

inventoried roadless areas ................................................................................................ 156

Table 46. Summary of Inventoried Roadless Area alternative impacts by criteria .................... 157

Table 47. Land ownership in citizens’ area of interest and Inventoried Roadless Area............. 166

Table 48. Miles of roads within citizens’ area of interest and Inventoried Roadless Area......... 167

Table 49. Road mileage of Central Oregon Forests and Grassland........................................... 171

Table 50. National Forest Transportation System road miles by functional class ..................... 173

Table 51. NFSR road miles by maintenance level.................................................................... 174

Table 52. Roads subject to the Highway Safety Act................................................................. 174

Table 53. NFSR road miles by surface type............................................................................. 175

Table 54. Miles of open Forest Service roads by season of use ................................................ 176

Table 55. Miles of open Forest Service roads by vehicle type.................................................. 177

Table 56. Miles of open Forest Service roads by season of use and vehicle type...................... 177

Table 57. Expected change in roads open to motorized mixed use ........................................... 178

Table 58. 2010 Primary Constituent Elements and Associated Habitat Indicators.................... 185

Table 59. Alternative 1 numbers, acres, and linear feet of dispersed sites adjacent to water bodies 

by Forest.......................................................................................................................... 192

Table 60. Alternative 1 acres open to cross-country travel within100 feet of water bodies....... 192
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland ix

Table 61. Acres open in riparian reserves or riparian habitat conservation areas for dispersed 

camping ........................................................................................................................... 192

Table 62. Larger impacted sites/areas as identified in the current condition 4th field HUC 

sections (best professional estimate of size)...................................................................... 192

Table 63. Acres open to cross-country travel – within 100 feet of stream channels, lakes, and 

wetlands........................................................................................................................... 195

Table 64. Acres open in riparian reserves or riparian habitat conservation areas to motorized 

access for dispersed camping under Special Provisions (distance measured from edge of 

water body)...................................................................................................................... 196

Table 65. Alternatives 2 and 3 - Numbers of acres of dispersed sites adjacent to water bodies . 196

Table 66. Alternatives 2 and 3 - Estimate of larger ‘impacted’ sites/areas after implementation 

(best estimate of size and associated assumptions) that would allow for access for dispersed 

camping as a result of the Rule......................................................................................... 196

Table 67. 2010 Primary Constituent Elements and Associated Effects..................................... 200

Table 68. Determination for threatened, endangered and sensitive aquatic species................... 201

Table 69. Potential natural vegetation for terraces adjacent to streams/water bodiesa ............... 208

Table 70. Summary – Effects to water temperature and bank stability ..................................... 209

Table 71. Summarized ACS Objectives and Effects of the Alternatives................................... 209

Table 72. Watershed map key table ......................................................................................... 211

Table 73. Shade table - illustrates varying shade/shadow lengths based on height of vegetation 

during daylight hours....................................................................................................... 217

Table 74. Inventoried campsites in areas open to motorized access for dispersed camping ...... 220

Table 75. Alternative 1 - Miles of 303(d) streams open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping ........................................................................................................................... 220

Table 76. Alternative 1 - miles of perennial streams open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping ........................................................................................................................... 221

Table 77. Stream class definitions........................................................................................... 227

Table 78. 303(d) streams open to motorized access for dispersed camping .............................. 228

Table 79. Cross-country access within 300 feet of 303(d) streams........................................... 229

Table 80. Cross-country access within 300 feet of streams...................................................... 229

Table 81. Cross-country travel within 300 feet of streams in municipal watersheds................. 229

Table 82. National Forest Transportation System road densities within 300 feet of streams..... 230

Table 83. Motorized access for dispersed camping within 100 feet of 303(d) streams.............. 231

Table 84. Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping Within 100 feet of Streams..................... 231

Table 85. Motorized access for dispersed camping within 100 feet of streams in municipal 

watersheds ....................................................................................................................... 231

Table 86. Cross-country access within 300 feet of wetlands .................................................... 232

Table 87. Motorized access for dispersed camping within 100 feet of wetlands....................... 233

Table 88. Mineral material use for Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest and 

Crooked River National Grassland ................................................................................... 240

Table 89. Percent affected dormant landslide terrain within all the alternatives (acres) ............ 241

Table 90. Active landslide terrain within acres open for dispersed campsites........................... 241

Table 91. Permeable rocks (acres) open to motorized access for dispersed camping on the 

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland

........................................................................................................................................ 242

Table 92. Acres and number of mineral material sources by forest by alternative .................... 243
Table of Contents

x Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 93. Miles of 303(d) listed streams on dormant landslide terrain on the Ochoco NF and 

Crooked River National Grassland ................................................................................... 244

Table 94. Site specific areas of high impact on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests.... 252

Table 95. Total acres of mapped plant association groups and their relative percentages that 

occur on the Deschutes National Forest............................................................................ 259

Table 96. Total acres of mapped plant association groups and their relative percentages that 

occur on the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland................... 260

Table 97. Research natural areas on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked 

River National Grassland ................................................................................................. 262

Table 98. Sensitive plant species documented (D) or suspected (S) to occur on the Deschutes and 

Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland ..................................... 263

Table 99. Other rare or uncommon plant species documented on the Deschutes National Forest

........................................................................................................................................ 266

Table 100. Percent of plant association group acres closed and open for cross-country travel 

under Alternative 1 (existing condition) and Alternatives 2 and 3 for the Forests and 

Grasslanda

........................................................................................................................ 269

Table 101. Percent of plant association group acres closed and open for motorized access for 

dispersed camping under the different alternativesa .......................................................... 269

Table 102. Percent of special habitat acres closed and open for motorized travel off of designated 

routes under the three alternatives. ................................................................................... 270

Table 103. Special habitat closed and open for motorized access for dispersed camping under the 

different alternatives......................................................................................................... 271

Table 104. Alternative effects summary to mapped sensitive plant populations and habitats for 

the travel management project area .................................................................................. 272

Table 105. Percent of acres occupied by sensitive plants closed and open for cross-country travel 

under Alternative 1, Alternative 2 and Alternative 3 for the Forests and Grassland........... 274

Table 106. Percent of acres occupied by sensitive plants closed and open for motorized access 

for dispersed camping under the different alternatives...................................................... 274

Table 107. Percent of acres occupied by other rare or uncommon plants closed and open for 

cross-country travel under Alternative 1 (Existing Condition) and Alternatives 2 and 3 for 

the Deschutes National Forest .......................................................................................... 275

Table 108. Percent of acres occupied by other rare or uncommon plants closed and open for 

motorized access for dispersed camping under the different alternatives for the Deschutes 

National Forest................................................................................................................. 275

Table 109. Number of mapped sites and infested acres of invasive plant species that occur on the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland (CRNG) 279

Table 110. Percent of invasive plant acres closed and open for cross-country travel under 

Alternative 1 (existing condition) and Alternatives 2 and 3 for the Forests and Grassland 282

Table 111. Percent and acres of invasive plant areas closed and open for motorized access for 

dispersed camping under the different alternatives. .......................................................... 283

Table 112. Mineral material source sites proposed to be open to motorized access on the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland .............. 285

Table 113. Acres of planned vegetation treatments in areas open to cross-country travel or 

motorized access for dispersed camping that may result in forest conditions more conducive 

to motorized access on the Deschutes National Forest from 2004 – 2008 ......................... 290

Table 114. Large wildfires on the Deschutes National Forest from 2004 to 2007..................... 290
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland xi 

Table 115. Large wildfires on the Ochoco National Forest from 2004 to 2007......................... 291

Table 116. Reasonably foreseeable projects or planning areas on the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests............................................................................................................... 291

Table 117. Acres of vegetation treatments and large wildfiresa from 2004 – 2008 that may have 

increased motorized access for dispersed camping opportunities under Alternative 1 ....... 293

Table 118. Acres of vegetation treatments and large wildfiresa (and the % reduction from 

existing conditions) from 2004 – 2008 that may have increased motorized access for 

dispersed camping opportunities in areas subject only to General Provisions under 

Alternative 2 .................................................................................................................... 293

Table 119. Characteristics making a species vulnerable to major effects of roads (Forman et al. 

2003) ............................................................................................................................... 296

Table 120. Threatened and endangered species summary ........................................................ 296

Table 121. Sensitive species summary for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and 

Crooked River National Grassland ................................................................................... 296

Table 122. Management indicator species summary for the Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forests and Crooked River Grassland............................................................................... 297

Table 123. Landbird species for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River 

Grassland ......................................................................................................................... 298

Table 124. Average traffic speed and daily volume rates for Deschutes and Ochoco (including 

CRNG) NF roadsa............................................................................................................ 300

Table 125. Acres of direct habitat lost as a result from roads and road prisms.......................... 304

Table 126. Total acres included in the ‘road effect’ distance (200m) for the Deschutes and 

Ochoco National Forests.................................................................................................. 307

Table 127. Nesting, roosting, and foraging (NRF) habitat comparison for Alternatives 2 and 3 

(Deschutes NF) ................................................................................................................ 311

Table 128. Late-successional reserve and nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat within LSRs 

comparison for Alternatives 2 and 3 (Deschutes NF)........................................................ 312

Table 129. Historic and 2008 critical habitat unit and nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat in 

critical habitat units comparison for Alternatives 2 and 3 (Deschutes NF) ........................ 312

Table 130. Home range and nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat within home ranges 

comparison for Alternatives 2 and 3 (Deschutes NF)........................................................ 313

Table 131. Deschutes NF - MA-7 ............................................................................................ 314

Table 132. Deschutes NF – Key Elk Habitat Areas.................................................................. 314

Table 133. Ochoco NF – Winter Range ................................................................................... 314

Table 134. Summary of conclusion of impacts, Region 6 sensitive species, Alternatives 2 and 3 

for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland ... 315

Table 135. Comparison of alternatives for undisturbed habitat ................................................ 316

Table 136. Summary of cross-country access (approximate acres) by allotment status and Forest

........................................................................................................................................ 319

Table 137. Summary of motorized access for dispersed camping (approximate acres) by 

allotment status and Forest ............................................................................................... 320

Table 138. Incidents that compromise range improvement functionality.................................. 323

Table 139. Summary of cross-country access (approximate acres) by allotment status and Forest 

under Alternatives 2 and 3................................................................................................ 325

Table 140. Summary of motorized access for dispersed camping (approximate acres) by 

allotment status and Forest under Alternative 2 ................................................................ 326
Table of Contents

xii Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 141. Summary of motorized access for dispersed camping (approximate acres) by 

allotment status and Forest under Alternative 3 ................................................................ 326

Table 142. Historical fire occurrence on the Deschutes (1987 – 2007) and Ochoco National 

Forests (1986 – 2007)....................................................................................................... 328

Table 143. Unplanned human-caused ignitions across the broader landscape (see above) across 

the administrative units (Deschutes National Forest, 1987 – 2007; Ochoco National Forest, 

1986– 2007) ..................................................................................................................... 330

Table 144. Unplanned human-caused ignitions in the area within 300 feet of open designated 

routes across the administrative units (Deschutes National Forest, 1987 – 2007; Ochoco 

National Forest, 1986– 2007 ............................................................................................ 331

Table 145. Mineral material source sites (rock/cinder pits) open to motorized access off of 

designated routes within the wildland urban interface....................................................... 337

Table 146. Scenic corridors on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the Crooked 

River National Grassland ................................................................................................. 346

Table 147. Criteria for scenic integrity of landscape character, image and sense of place......... 350

Table 148. Alternative 1 – existing cross-country travel opportunities in scenic views 

management areas............................................................................................................ 352

Table 149. Alternative 1 motorized access for dispersed camping in scenic views................... 354

Table 150. Alternatives 2 and 3 – cross-country travel within scenic views management areas 356

Table 151. Alternatives 2 and 3 – motorized access for dispersed camping within scenic view 

management areas............................................................................................................ 358

Table 152. Acres of planned vegetation treatments from 2004-2008 ........................................ 371

Table 153. Large wildfires on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests from 2004-2007 ... 371

Table 154. Deschutes Provincial Advisory Committee (PAC) ................................................. 392

Table 155. Deschutes Provincial Advisory Committee Travel Management Subcommittee and 

Working Group................................................................................................................ 393

List of Figures

Figure 1. Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland Vicinity 

Map ................................................................................................................................... xv

Figure 2. Designated sites, marked with a sign ............................................................................7

Figure 3. Defined sites, limiting motorized access with boulders or wood structures ...................7

Figure 4. Existing sites have established fire rings or other evidence of past use..........................7

Figure 5. Motorized access to existing sites no closer than 30 feet to edge of stream, wetland, or 

water body ...........................................................................................................................8

Figure 6. Population trends...................................................................................................... 113

Figure 7. Population comparison ............................................................................................. 114

Figure 8. Activities and values - 2006 public workshops......................................................... 123

Figure 9. Map of area of interest from Oregon Natural Desert Association with land ownership

........................................................................................................................................ 168

Figure 10. Designated Critical Habitat – Metolius River and tributaries................................... 186

Figure 11. Designated Critical Habitat – Lake Billy Chinook, Deschutes River, Whychus Creek, 

and Crooked River ........................................................................................................... 187

Figure 12. Designated Critical Habitat for Odell...................................................................... 188

Figure 13. Steelhead Critical Habitat....................................................................................... 189

Figure 14. Longitudinal, cross-section and plan view of major stream types............................ 203
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland xiii

Figure 15. Cross-sectional configuration, composition and delineative criteria of major stream 

types................................................................................................................................ 203

Figure 16. Channel Type A ..................................................................................................... 204

Figure 17. Channel Type B ..................................................................................................... 204

Figure 18. Channel Type C ..................................................................................................... 205

Figure 19. Channel Type DA .................................................................................................. 205

Figure 20. Channel Type E...................................................................................................... 206

Figure 21. Channel Type F...................................................................................................... 206

Figure 22. Channel Type G ..................................................................................................... 207

Figure 23. Watershed map (map key is Table 72).................................................................... 212

Figure 24. Average annual precipitation .................................................................................. 213

Figure 25. User created road/trail in riparian area .................................................................... 219

Figure 26. User created OHV stream crossing ......................................................................... 219

Figure 27. Stream crossing at dispersed site ............................................................................ 223

Figure 28. User-created stream crossing .................................................................................. 223

Figure 29. User created road/trail in wet area .......................................................................... 223

Figure 30. Access road delivered sediment without 30 foot setback......................................... 224

Figure 31. Dispersed site before traffic control measures......................................................... 225

Figure 32. Dispersed site after traffic control measures............................................................ 225

Figure 33. Before- looking at dispersed site............................................................................. 225

Figure 34. After- looking at dispersed site ............................................................................... 225

Figure 35. Mud bogging in wet meadow ................................................................................. 226

Figure 36. User created trail across wetland............................................................................. 226

Figure 37. Range map showing current allotments .................................................................. 321

Figure 38. Unplanned human-caused ignitions on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests329

Figure 39. Unplanned human-caused ignitions across the broader landscape on the Deschutes 

and Ochoco National Forests............................................................................................ 331

Figure 40. Human-caused ignitions within 300 feet of open designated routes on the Deschutes 

and Ochoco National Forests............................................................................................ 332

Figure 41. Photos showing effects of unauthorized routes on landscape elements.................... 351

Figure 42. Map A-1 – Alternative 1 motorized access off designated routes (cross-country travel) 

Deschutes National Forest................................................................................................ 464

Figure 43. Map A-2 – Alternative 2 and 3 motorized access off designated routes – Deschutes 

National Forest................................................................................................................. 465

Figure 44. Map A-3 - Alternative 1 motorized access off designated routes, Ochoco National 

Forest............................................................................................................................... 466

Figure 45. Map A-4 - Alternatives 2 and 3 motorized access off designated routes, Ochoco 

National Forest................................................................................................................. 467

Figure 46. Map A-5 Alternative 1 motorized access for dispersed camping, Deschutes National 

Forest............................................................................................................................... 468

Figure 47. Map A-6 – Alternative 2 and 3 motorized access for dispersed camping, Deschutes 

National Forest................................................................................................................. 469

Figure 48. Map A-7 – Alternative 1 existing condition, Ochoco National Forest ..................... 470

Figure 49. Map A-8 – Alternative 2 and 3 – Motorized access for dispersed camping, Ochoco 

National Forest................................................................................................................. 471

Figure 50. Map A-9 – Mixed use roads, Deschutes National Forest......................................... 472
Table of Contents

xiv Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 51. Map A-10 – Mixed use roads, Ochoco National Forest........................................... 473

Figure 52. Map A-11 – Inventoried Roadless Areas, Deschutes National Forest...................... 474

Figure 53. Map A-12 – Inventoried Roadless Areas, Ochoco National Forest.......................... 475
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland xv 

Figure 1. Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland Vicinity Map
Summary of the Final Environmental Impact Statement

xvi Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Summary of the Final Environmental Impact 

Statement

Introduction

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the Crooked River National Grassland propose to 

implement this Travel Management Project in accordance with the national federal regulations issued in 

2005 and titled, “Travel Management: Designated Motorized Access for National Forests and Grasslands” 

otherwise known as the “Rule” that was issued nationally in 2005. The National Forests and Grasslands 

were directed to publish a Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) that would show where and under what 

conditions designated motorized access would be allowed for all motor vehicles. The Rule establishes 

specific codes under federal regulations (CFRs) to enforce a consistent nationwide approach of allowing 

motorized access on National Forests and Grasslands only as shown on the Motor Vehicle Use Map. Over 

the snow motor vehicles are exempt from this rule in Central Oregon.

There are approximately 11,432 miles of roads under Forest Service jurisdiction across Central Oregon on 

the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the Crooked River National Grassland, with about 8,000 

miles that are designated as open to motorized use. Motor vehicle use on these roads has historically been 

allowed consistent with Oregon law, and are open to use by highway-legal vehicles only or open to both 

highway and non-highway-legal vehicles. Approximately 90 percent of these roads are open for use by 

non-highway-legal vehicles. The Travel Management Rule and Forest Service policy allows for these past 

motorized use designations to be incorporated without change as the designated routes required to be 

shown on the Motor Vehicle Use Map (CFR 215.50(b)). 

Despite the 370 miles of designated trail systems on both Forests and 163 additional miles located in the 

Central Oregon area, unregulated motorized access off designated routes (cross-country travel) has 

resulted in a proliferation of unauthorized trails often concentrated near population centers, but also 

present across the Forests. 

The two motorized activities most likely to be significantly affected by prohibiting motorized use outside 

of or off of existing designated roads, trails, and areas would be:

• Motorized access for dispersed camping 

• Motorized travel off designated routes (cross-country travel) by off-highway vehicles

There are insufficient budgets and resources to inventory and evaluate every existing designated and

unauthorized route or use area on both Forests before the publication of the first Motor Vehicle Use Map.

National Forest System roads on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests have existing designations 

that follow state regulation, and allow for motorized “mixed” use of highway and non-highway-legal 

vehicles on roads which are classified by the Forest Service as “Maintenance Level 2.” 

Purpose and Need

The Travel Management Rule was passed because of a need to resolve a number of resource and social 

concerns related to unregulated motorized travel that were detailed in the Rule. These included concerns 

such as:
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland xvii

• Confusion about where or when motorized access is or is not allowed, or for what type of vehicle, and 

how or where to find that information

• Resource damage from inappropriate motorized uses

• Conflicts between motorized and non-motorized users 

• Quality of recreational experiences for all forest users

Many of these concerns are illustrated on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the Crooked 

River National Grassland as well. For instance, the entire Crooked River National Grassland is currently 

closed to cross-country travel. National Forest lands have a mixture of designations related to motorized 

travel on and off roads. Use on roads can vary by season as well as by type of vehicles. Motorized use 

regulation sometimes is very specific to the type of vehicle (OHVs), or may be very broad (all motor 

vehicles), adding to the general confusion about how management direction has been intended to be 

applied. Providing consistent information about the regulations - such as keeping areas posted as “closed” 

- is difficult and costly, so signing may not be present to help people understand the regulations. Resource 

damage from inappropriate motorized use has increased on both Forests, perhaps driven by an increase in 

the types of vehicles available to the growing Oregon population. Population growth and an increasing 

demand for many different types of recreational uses has also contributed to an increase in social 

conflicts, often between motorized and non-motorized users, which can affect the quality of recreational 

experiences for all users on the National Forests and Grassland. 

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests have a need to accomplish the purpose of the Travel 

Management Rule3 which includes establishing conditions for reasonable motorized access for dispersed 

camping and publishing a timely initial Motor Vehicle Use Map. There is also a need to comply with 

Pacific Northwest Regional direction to review routes that would be shown on the Motor Vehicle Use 

Map as available for motorized mixed use (highway and non-highway-legal vehicle use) under current 

designations (Oregon State Law) to determine if conditions may warrant changing that allowable use to 

highway-legal vehicles only. Based on initial review of the seasons of use on existing designated routes, 

there is also a limited need to make minor changes to the seasons of use in some areas to eliminate minor 

inconsistencies between those seasons of use.

Decision Framework

Given the purpose of and need for action, the deciding officials will review the proposed action, the other 

alternatives, and the environmental consequences in order to make the following decisions:

• Determine whether or under what conditions motorized travel off of existing designated routes and 

outside of existing designated areas would be prohibited within the Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forests and Crooked River National Grassland after the publication of the Motor Vehicle Use Map 

(MVUM) in accordance with the Travel Management Rule 

• Determine whether or under what conditions exceptions allowed by the rule for motorized access 

would be provided for ingress and egress to dispersed campsites

• Determine whether or under what conditions motorized mixed-use of highway and non-highway-legal 

vehicles would be allowed on identified National Forest System roads

 

3 36 CFR 212.50 
Summary of the Final Environmental Impact Statement

xviii Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

• Determine whether or under what conditions to amend Forest Plans. 

Key issues identified during project scoping

Key Issues are used to modify or develop an Alternative to the proposed action. The key issues are 

specific to the proposed action and the project area. Measures or indicators have been identified following 

the issue description to assist readers in tracking how the effects of these issues are evaluated throughout 

the analysis. 

Areas Open to Cross-country Travel

There are mineral material sources, existing rock, gravel and/or cinder pits (and called hereafter 

rock/cinder pits), that currently do not prohibit motorized use that were not included in the proposed 

action as designated areas that would be open to cross-country travel. Several of these rock/cinder pits 

may be prized by off-highway vehicle users that like a variety of technical challenges. These areas usually 

offer little chance for resource damage because they are already designated and developed for mineral 

extraction. Many of these areas have historically been used on both Forests for dispersed camping, target 

practice, rock crawling and staging areas for recreation activities, in addition to their primary aggregate 

use. Some of these pits include water sources that have been stocked with fish by the Oregon Department 

of Fish and Wildlife.

Response: The Proposed Action was modified to include criteria for maintaining current or to designate 

future rock/cinder pits as open to cross-country travel. After evaluating the 531 rock/cinder pits on the 

two Forests against these criteria, 52 rock/cinder pits that met these criteria were proposed to be 

designated as areas open to cross-country travel. 

Areas Designated As Open to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Some people are concerned about the potential impacts to resources such as soils, wildlife, and vegetation

of continuing to allow motorized access for dispersed camping within 300 feet of most existing open 

designated routes. This concern is primarily for sensitive areas such as riparian areas, but extends to other 

areas within the forest as well. Concerns include denuding vegetation, wildlife harassment, soil 

compaction and spreading invasive species to name a few.

The proposed action would allow motorized access for dispersed camping within 300 feet of most roads, 

but would modify the conditions for this motorized access. Under the Travel Management Rule, all 

motorized access for dispersed camping would be subject to the General Provisions identified in the Rule. 

These provisions limit motorized access for dispersed camping to the same class of vehicle and season of 

use as the adjacent open designated road, and restrict motorized access within that specified distance 

solely for the purpose of dispersed camping. The proposed action also includes Special Provisions for 

motorized access for dispersed camping in all riparian areas; and in non-riparian (upland) areas with other 

sensitive resources as identified by the Forest Service. These Special Provision areas would limit 

motorized access for dispersed camping to designated, defined and existing sites; and would establish a 

30 foot setback for motorized access for dispersed camping to any existing site near a stream course, 

wetland, or water body (See Figure 2 - Figure 5).

People are concerned that the areas designated as open to motorized access for dispersed camping under 

the General Provisions could have a higher potential for development of new motorized access points and 

dispersed sites than those areas where the Special Provisions would apply. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland xix

Response: Alternative 3 was developed to respond to this issue. Alternative 3 would apply Special 

Provisions to all roads proposed as open to motorized access for dispersed camping under Alternative 2, 

not just riparian areas and non-riparian (upland) areas identified to have other sensitive resources. 

Inventoried Roadless Areas 

Inventoried Roadless Areas have been identified as an important resource through a variety of venues. 

These areas are important to many people for a variety of reasons, including the potential for the areas to 

become future wilderness. The proposed action would allow motorized access for dispersed camping 

within Inventoried Roadless Areas within 300 feet of existing designated open roads subject to the 

General Provisions of the Rule. If those roads are within 300 feet of a streamcourse, wetland or water 

body, motorized access for dispersed camping would be allowed only under Special Provisions. There are 

roughly 17.5 miles of road on the Ochoco and 2.5 miles on the Deschutes that are open designated roads 

in the Inventoried Roadless Areas.

Commenters during the scoping process expressed concerns about the effects of continued motorized 

access within these Inventoried Roadless Areas on roadless characteristics and wilderness potential. 

Response: This issue has two responses. The original proposed action identified for scoping was modified 

to allow for motorized access for dispersed camping within Inventoried Roadless Areas only under 

Special Provisions in all cases, rather than Special Provisions only in riparian areas. Alternative 3 was 

also designed to be responsive to this issue by prohibiting motorized access for dispersed camping within 

all Inventoried Roadless Areas. 

Other Issues are identified and used to describe the effects of the alternatives on important physical and 

biological resources or social and economic conditions. Measures or indicators have also been identified 

following some of the issue descriptions to further assist readers in tracking how the effects of these other 

issues are evaluated throughout the analysis. For further information please refer to the FEIS Chapter 1.

These issues led the agency to develop one alternative to the proposed action, for a total of three 

alternatives. The following is a summary of the alternatives considered.

Alternatives Considered

Alternative 1-No action/No change

The no action Alternative describes the current management direction related to cross-country travel and 

motorized access for dispersed camping as it exists today. It is included as a baseline comparison and 

there would be no changes in the current management direction. There would be no Motor Vehicle Use 

map published with this alternative.

Elements Common to Alternatives 2 (Proposed Action) and 3

These alternatives propose to prohibit all cross-country travel in areas previously designated as open to 

such use. It would prohibit access on approximately 1,611,862 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and 

723,644 acres on the Ochoco National Forest. 

There are several rock/cinder pits that currently do not prohibit use by motorized vehicles that are not 

within a designated motorized trail system. These areas are proposed to be designated as areas “open to 

motorized access off designated routes” within defined boundaries in both Alternatives 2 and 3 according 

to criteria identified in Chapter 2 of the FEIS. 
Summary of the Final Environmental Impact Statement

xx Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Motorized access for dispersed camping would continue to be allowed, under both alternatives, within 

300 feet of open designated roads. This allowance is in accordance with CFR 212.51. Alternatives 2 and 3 

would modify the conditions for motorized access within 300 feet of an open designated route to 

incorporate the General Provisions4 for motorized access on designated routes identified in the Travel 

Management Rule and to include Special Provisions5 that would further limit the use of motor vehicles in 

certain areas.

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have common areas proposed to be closed to motorized access for dispersed 

camping that are currently open to motorized access. They would close approximately 794,722 acres on 

the Deschutes National Forest and about 415,834 acres on the Ochoco National Forest to motorized use. 

The alternatives would also have in common, areas that are currently closed to motorized access for 

dispersed camping that will become open. Currently, there are 45,266 acres on the Deschutes National 

Forest and 24,400 acres on the Ochoco and Crooked River National Grassland that are closed that would 

become available to motorized access for dispersed camping.

As part of the 2005 Travel Management Rule, the Regional Forester in the Pacific Northwest Region 

issued a letter requiring an Engineering Analysis be performed on roads that will be shown on the Motor 

Vehicle Use Map as designated open to motorized “mixed” use. Alternatives 2 and 3 propose some 

changes to roads that currently allow motorized mixed use under state regulations based on this analysis. 

Both alternatives would include amendments to the Ochoco Forest Plan6

.

Alternative 2 (Proposed Action)

Alternative 2 would designate approximately 353,686 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and 69,733 

acres on the Ochoco as “open to motorized access for dispersed camping” either year-round or seasonally 

within 300 feet of a designated route under the General Provisions. Approximately 62,894 acres on the 

Deschutes National Forest and 54,594 acres on the Ochoco National Forest would be “open to motorized 

access for dispersed camping” with Special Provisions. This includes approximately 2,100 acres in the 

Inventoried Roadless Areas across both Forests and the Grassland.

Alternative 3

Alternative 3 would only allow motorized access for dispersed camping under Special Provisions to 

designated, defined, or existing campsites along all open designated routes. It would also prohibit any 

motorized access for dispersed camping in Inventoried Roadless Areas.

Other Alternatives Considered

Four other alternatives suggested by public comments received during scoping that were within the scope 

of the analysis were considered but eliminated from detailed study. These alternatives included modifying 

the setback on streams and water bodies; making no change to cross-country travel where it is not 

currently prohibited or designating large areas on the landscape as open to cross-country travel; and 

 

4 General Provisions allow for limited motorized access within those areas to those classes of vehicles and seasons of use that

apply to the adjacent designated route solely for the purpose of dispersed camping according to CFR 212.51

5 Proposed Special Provision areas would allow motorized access within 300 feet of the centerline of a designated route for those 

classes of vehicles and seasons of use that apply to the designated route only for the purpose of accessing designated, defined or 

existing dispersed campsites.

6 Excluding the Emigrant Creek Ranger District that is administered by the Malheur National Forest.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland xxi 

allowing cross-country travel for game retrieval. A more detailed description about why these were not 

alternatives considered in detail is included in Chapter 1.

Summary of Effects by Resource Area

Recreation

In Alternative 1, opportunities for motorized access off designated routes on new or existing unauthorized 

routes would continue, allowing motorized users that prefer off route travel access to those kinds of 

experiences, including recreation opportunities for quad ATVs, single track motorcycles, and 4WD 

vehicles, access for hunting, scouting game, game retrieval, and gathering forest products such as antlers, 

mushrooms, cones, etc. There would continue to be confusion among forest visitors about where or when 

motorized access is or is not allowed, or for what type of vehicle, and how or where to find that 

information. Conflicts between motorized and non-motorized users would continue and likely increase as 

visitor use increases over time. With population increase, more new motorized routes would likely be 

created to access either existing or new dispersed campsites to accommodate demand, especially in prime 

areas (near streams, lakes, or other attractive features). 

Alternative 1 would continue some level of undesired effects to non-motorized users from noise, dust, and 

proximity to motorized uses which would be expected to increase with population growth and higher 

forest visitation. Non-motorized trails that are located within areas open to cross-country travel would 

continue to receive increasing motorized use as the trail character and dimensions change and become 

more indistinguishable from a motorized trail. Under Alternative 1, as forecasted demand for dispersed 

camping increases, new motorized routes would likely be created to either existing or new campsites, 

especially in prime areas (near streams, lakes, or other attractive features). Resource impacts such as soil 

compaction and erosion and loss of vegetation would continue to occur and increase.

The proposed actions common to both Alternatives 2 and 3 would prohibit cross-country travel on 

approximately 624,000 acres where it is not currently prohibited for a total of 1,611,862 acres on the 

Deschutes National Forest where cross-country travel would be prohibited. On the Ochoco National 

Forest approximately 462,000 where it is not currently prohibited for a total of about d 723,644 acres on 

the Ochoco National Forest wher ecross-country travel would be prohibited. This would create a distinct

separation between where motorized vehicles and non-motorized uses would share recreation 

opportunities and would likely benefit those that prefer more quiet recreation in areas away from roads 

where cross-country travel was not previously prohibited. Motorized users would no longer have an 

opportunity to travel cross-country off of a designated road or trail, and would likely perceive this as an 

adverse effect to their recreational opportunities.

Congressionally Designated Areas

Alternative 1 has the greatest potential for adversely affecting the unique values of Congressionally 

Designated Areas such as solitude and unfragmented landscapes from motorized access to 

Congressionally Designated Areas as a result of the impacts of continuing to not prohibit cross-country 

travel, or continuing the existing conditions for motorized access for dispersed camping. However, most 

Congressionally Designated Areas already restrict motorized cross-country travel. Less than one percent 

of all of the CDAs, or approximately 1,141 acres, currently do not prohibit cross-country travel.

There is no difference in the effects to cross-country travel between Alternatives 2 and 3. Both action 

alternatives would restrict all motorized travel to designated roads and/or trails which would have a 
Summary of the Final Environmental Impact Statement

xxii Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

beneficial effect by eliminating the potential for impacts to the unique values of each area from motorized 

access. 

Alternative 3 offers the highest level of protection to CDAs because motorized access for dispersed 

camping would be allowed only under Special Provisions. Under Alternative 2, about 48,647 acres, or 32 

percent of the CDA acres would be open to motorized access for dispersed camping under the General

Provisions, and 2,976 acres or two percent would be open under Special Provisions. Under Alternative 3, 

approximately 51,623 acres or 34 percent would be open to motorized access for dispersed camping only 

under Special Provisions. 

Social and Economics

The primary area potentially affected by the proposed actions considered in this FEIS are a four-county 

area that includes Deschutes, Crook, Jefferson, and Klamath Counties. Recreation activities classified as 

non-motorized presently represent both the dominant recreational uses on the two National Forest and 

economic contributions to the recreation economy of the region. Overall, contributions and trends to the 

local economy from either motorized or non-motorized uses are unlikely to measurably change as a result 

of any of the alternatives. Although recreation and tourism are becoming a more important part of the 

economic sector, data suggests that the importance of National Forest lands as an ecological setting is the 

most important contribution to recreation and tourism economy. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 could result in more concentrated uses on motorized trails and roads than Alternative 

1, although whether this would occur depends entirely upon user preferences. Users who value peace and 

quiet away from the sights and sounds of motorized uses would experience less conflict and likely less 

potential for displacement from valued areas because of motorized uses. Only about one percent of the 

two National Forests would be available to cross-country travel. This would eliminate most opportunities 

on the two Forests for people that value undesignated motorized off-road or trail access or who believe 

that they have a need or right to travel off of designated routes and to maintain what they believe to be 

primarily unregulated motorized access. There are no anticipated economic or disparate impacts expected 

to low income, minority, or disabled populations. 

Scenery

Scenic views would not be directly altered by any of the alternatives considered. Alternatives 2 and 3 

would have more potential indirect benefits to scenery than Alternative 1. In Alternatives 2 and 3, limiting 

motorized access for dispersed camping to only designated, defined or existing campsites, and prohibiting 

the creation of new motorized routes to access new or existing campsites would have a beneficial effect 

by reducing visual impacts within view corridors. Requiring a 30 foot setback from water bodies and 

stream channels would facilitate vegetation recovery in these areas, thus provide scenery more typical of 

Central Oregon landscapes in the foreground area as seen adjacent to major forest roads and from 

dispersed campsites. 

Inventoried Roadless Areas

Impacts of motorized use within IRAs would be greatest in Alternative 1 because existing management

direction would continue to allow motorized access and cross-country travel in some IRAs for a total of 

31,618 acres on both Forests and Grassland. Alternatives 2 and 3 would prohibit cross-country travel, 

reducing the effects on roadless or potential wilderness values associated with unfragmented landscapes.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland xxiii

Other Undeveloped Areas

Under the no-action Alternative, the ability of an undeveloped area to be identified as potential wilderness 

will not be affected. Under the no action, there will be no change to the existing road system. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 considered existing designated routes. They do not close any currently open routes 

nor create any new routes. There will be no change from the existing condition relative to motorized 

access on roads in unroaded areas. For both Alternatives 2 and 3, motorized access off of designated 

routes, (cross-country travel), will be reduced or eliminated for the majority of the Forests and Grassland.

Transportation and Public Safety

There would be no effects to the current road system from implementing Alternative 1. Roads would 

continue to be used as they are presently, and public use would remain as it is today.

Alternatives 2 and 3 could be expected to increase overall road use in areas where there is currently a high 

level of off-road motorized vehicle use if OHV users choose to use roads where they are currently 

travelling cross-country. However, the location and amount that use may change as a result of this 

proposed action when compared to other uses is unpredictable. Regardless of the Alternative selected, 

future increased use of roads could result in increased surface wear on some roads which may result in a 

need for additional maintenance work. 

Under the action alternatives all motorized vehicle use would be restricted to designated routes, and a 

motorized mixed use analysis is required to evaluate the suitability for allowing both highway-legal and 

non-highway-legal vehicles on the same designated routes. Some roads that are currently available for 

mixed motorized use will be changed to allow only highway-legal vehicles if either action alternative is 

implemented. As a consequence of this change, some connectivity between traditional OHV use areas 

would be changed or lost. The OHV rider may need to load and transport the OHV from one geographic 

location to another in certain areas. 

Analyses indicate that of the total miles of road currently available for mixed motorized use 

approximately 181 miles of roads on the Deschutes National Forest and 125 miles of roads on the Ochoco 

National Forest would be changed to only allow highway-legal vehicles if either action alternative is 

implemented. As a consequence of this change, some connectivity between roads that previously provided 

contiguous access for non-highway legal vehicles would be changed or lost. 

Fisheries

With Alternative 1, there would continue to be relatively unregulated cross-country travel. The potential 

adverse effects to fisheries resources and populations include localized increases in turbidity, decreases in 

vegetation and associated shade or bank stability, and potential increases in sediment loads in stream 

systems. 

Potential positive effects to fisheries from implementation of either action alternative could result 

indirectly from decreases in erosion and bank instability, and increases in vegetative cover (shade) from 

prohibiting cross-country travel and changing the conditions for motorized access for dispersed camping. 

In Alternatives 2and 3, the potential for turbidity, fine sediment bed load, and increases in stream 

temperature from the effects of motorized access is reduced when compared to the no action alternative, 

and would have a beneficial effect on these resources at the localized scale, especially in relation to 

motorized access for dispersed camping. Alternatives 2 and 3 would limit motorized access across both 

Forests for dispersed camping to only existing, designated, or defined sites with a 30 foot setback from 

streams, wetlands, or water bodies. However, limiting access for dispersed camping may, in some cases, 
Summary of the Final Environmental Impact Statement

xxiv Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

increase use in sites that are located directly adjacent to fish bearing waters. This may have the effect of 

slightly increasing fine sediment input to stream or lake systems. These increases will not be measureable 

due to the scattered nature of dispersed sites across both Forests and the Grassland.

The effects to habitats are anticipated, although not specifically quantifiable without more site-specific 

data related to future uses and recovery of these areas. Overall, there would be a reduction in acres within 

100 feet of water bodies that would restrict cross-country travel on almost 16,000 acres on the Deschutes 

and 40,000 acres on the Ochoco. Both action alternatives would have a: “May affect, not likely to 

adversely effect” determination on steelhead and bull trout and their designated critical habitats in 

accordance with the Endangered Species Act.

Hydrology 

Under Alternative 1, evidence indicates that adverse impacts from motorized use to riparian areas and 

wetlands would continue and could be expected to increase. It is expected there would be an increased 

number of user-created trails within riparian areas, causing increased compaction, and loss of vegetation 

which would potentially affect water quality primarily in the form of sedimentation or loss of shade. 

Wetland recovery would be slow or continue to deteriorate, and riparian vegetation would continue in a 

downward trend contributing to potential sediment deposition and decreased shade in and along 

surrounding water bodies. 

Implementation of Alternatives 2 or 3 would have a positive effect on water quality and wetland function 

because both action alternatives would reduce the amount of cross-country travel. This alternative would 

limit motorized access to designated, defined, or existing dispersed campsites within 300 feet of 

designated open roads and establish a 30 foot setback from streams for motorized access.

Positive effects to hydrology in terms of water quality are expected from both Alternatives 2 and 3. These 

alternatives would result in increased stream shading over time, but the affected area would not result in a

measurable change in water temperature from Alternative 1. Implementation of the action alternatives 

would result in decreases in potential sediment delivery primarily as a result of reductions in crosscountry travel and implementation of special riparian provisions for dispersed camping. However, due to 

the scattered nature of the disturbance, connectivity to streams, water bodies, and wetlands, and the 

timing and magnitude of runoff events this effect is difficult to quantify. Effects to water quality and 

wetlands are similar under Alternatives 2 and 3 because special riparian provisions apply to both 

alternatives. Both action alternatives would move us towards compliance with the Clean Water Act, state 

and tribal water quality standards, Forest Plan Standard and Guidelines, Pacfish and Infish Riparian 

Management Objectives, Northwest Forest Plan Aquatic Conservation Strategies, Executive Order 11988 

(floodplain management), Executive Order 11990 (wetland protection) and Executive Order 12088 

(federal compliance with pollution control standards). 

Geology and Minerals

Alternative 1 has the most potential to adversely affect landslide terrain, although none to highly 

permeable rock. Alternatives 2 and 3, when compared with the the no-action alternative, would provide 

greater prevention of motorized access on landslide terrain or affect ground water through permeable rock 

for both Forests by restricting camping to defined, designated and existing sites within landslide terrain, 

and including a 30 foot setback from springs and wetlands. 

There is no appreciable difference of potential effects for geology and minerals between Alternatives 2 

and 3. For locatable minerals and rockhounding, the proposed action would not change use of the mining

claims. For leasable minerals, there also would be no change in operations. Some lease areas currently 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland xxv

prohibit public motorized access. For saleable minerals, if the source is not currently closed to the public, 

then Alternatives 2 and 3 would potentially affect access by the public to use of the sources for other 

activities.

In Alternatives 2 and 3, the proposed 30 foot setback for motorized access for dispersed camping for 

protection of wetlands, seeps, springs and stream edges would have a potential beneficial effect by 

allowing vegetation recovery, which would increase evapotranspiration, thereby increasing slope stability 

for those dispersed campsites with motorized access on dormant landslide terrain and adjacent to streams. 

Maintaining the minimum 30 foot buffer from the wetland edge for motorized access for dispersed 

camping would also beneficially reduce the potential risk for groundwater contamination. 

Soils

Alternative 1 does not restrict cross-country travel, which would likely expand the extent of compacted 

and displaced soil as existing trails continue to be used and new trails are formed. Additional impacts to 

the soil resource are most likely to occur adjacent to heavily used existing dispersed campsites or 

unauthorized trail areas. Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a positive effect by restricting motorized access 

for dispersed camping to within 300 feet of centerline of all designated routes, allowing natural recovery 

of soils and vegetation in currently existing sites greater than 300 feet from an open road. There would 

also be a beneficial effect associated with pulling back vehicular traffic and parking for dispersed 

camping at least 30 feet from stream banks. However, additional site specific impacts could have an 

adverse effect if new parking areas are created to compensate for the 30 foot setback restriction.

Alternative 2 could have an adverse effect on currently un-impacted areas of the soil resource. Upland 

areas that lack vegetation capable of inhibiting travel would be susceptible to the establishment of new 

campsites, parking areas, and new ingress/egress routes within 300 feet of designated routes. Alternative 3 

would reduce potential impacts to the soil resource from motorized access for dispersed camping as a 

direct result of implementing Special Provision restrictions on additional upland areas managed with 

General Provision restrictions under Alternative 2. Alternative 3 protects substantially more acres than 

Alternative 2 from direct impacts to the soil resource as a result of motorized access for dispersed 

camping. This equates to the restriction of motorized access for dispersed camping on nearly eight times 

as many acres on the Deschutes National Forest (404,730 acres versus 51,044 acres) and over twice as 

many acres on the Ochoco National Forest (124,327 acres versus 54,594 acres).

Native Vegetation

There are No Effects on Threatened or Endangered plant species or habitat from any of the actions 

proposed in this EIS because there are no federally listed Threatened or Endangered plant species or 

habitats documented or suspected on the Forests or Grassland. Therefore, activities proposed in the 

alternatives would have no effect on federally listed plant species. 

Alternative 1 (no-action) provides the least protection to native plants and native plant habitats, including 

special habitats and sensitive and other rare or uncommon plants, because more (often the majority of) 

acres are open to cross-country travel. Alternative 1 allows unrestricted motorized access for dispersed 

camping with no General or Special Provisions. Alternatives 2 (proposed action) and 3 substantially 

reduce the amount of acres open for cross-country travel. This would increase the protection for native 

plants and their habitats, including special habitats and sensitive and other rare or uncommon plants, over 

current conditions (Alternative 1). Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a beneficial effect on interior areas 

because areas open for motorized access for dispersed camping, would be restricted to within 300 feet of 

the centerline of roads. Alternative 3 provides the highest level of protection for native plant habitats 

because all motorized access for dispersed camping would be confined to existing, designated, or defined
Summary of the Final Environmental Impact Statement

xxvi Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

sites. This would reduce potential damage or loss to native vegetation adjacent to dispersed campsites. In 

both Alternatives 2 and 3, motorized access for dispersed camping is restricted to within 30 feet of water 

bodies. 

Invasive Vegetation

Unclean motor vehicles can spread invasive plant seeds and propagules to any areas where these vehicles 

are driven. Alternative 1 has the highest risk of invasive plant establishment, spread and expansion across 

the two Forests and Grassland because of all the alternatives, it has the most acres that are open to crosscountry travel. Interior forest areas continue to be susceptible to the spread and establishment of invasive 

plants. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a beneficial effect because they would reduce potential impacts from 

invasive plants due to prohibited cross-country travel. There is an exception – some mineral material 

source sites (52 of 531) would continue to be open for cross-country travel. Motorized activities within 

these sites have a high risk of spreading invasive plants into and outside of these areas. Since invasive 

plants generally follow travel corridors, and motorized access for dispersed camping in Alternatives 2 and 

3 would concentrate this use within 300 feet of designated routes, there would continue to be a potential 

adverse effect as invasive plants spread and become established along open designated routes. 

Alternative 2 has a higher risk than Alternative 3 because motorized access for dispersed camping is 

allowed anywhere within the 300 foot buffer (except for those areas in Alternative 2 that are closed to this 

use or are designated as Special Provision areas). This risk is reduced in Alternative 3 because motorized 

access for dispersed camping is limited to existing, designated or defined sites, thus confining established 

populations of invasive plants and potential for spread.

Vegetation Management Activities and Wildfires

Under Alternative 1, there would be an adverse effect to the acres burned by large wildfires or that have 

had vegetation treatments currently open to cross-country travel or motorized access for dispersed 

camping (65,780 and 93,830 acres, respectively on the Deschutes National Forest and 45,418 and 55,515 

acres, respectively on the Ochoco National Forest). These vegetation treatments and large wildfires may 

have created conditions that are more conducive to motorized access than many untreated areas, and 

therefore increase the potential for these areas to have unauthorized routes created in them. The creation 

of unauthorized routes could further disturb vegetation (beyond the need described in project goals) and 

possibly impede vegetation recovery. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would both eliminate the acres of vegetation treatments and acres burned by large 

wildfires available for motorized access off of designated routes and restrict motorized access for 

dispersed camping to within 300 feet of open designated routes to varying degrees. Alternative 2 would 

result in a total of approximately 27,005 and 7,705 acres (Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, 

respectively) of vegetation treatments and acres burned by large wildfires potentially available for 

motorized access for dispersed camping. This represents a 71 percent and 86 percent reduction from 

existing conditions (Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, respectively). Alternative 3 would eliminate 

the acreage of planned vegetation treatments or acres burned by wildfires potentially available for 

motorized access for dispersed camping on both Forests. 

Wildlife

One threatened species, designated critical habitat, and 21 sensitive species, and/or their habitats are 

known or suspected to occur within the project area.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland xxvii

The action alternatives May Effect, and are likely to have a Beneficial Effect on the northern spotted 

owl and its habitats. The action alternatives May Effect, and are likely to have a Beneficial Effect on 

designated critical habitat (for both the 1992 and 2008 designations) for the northern spotted owl. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a Beneficial Impact to the bald eagle, horned grebe, bufflehead, 

harlequin duck, American peregrine falcon, greater sage grouse, yellow rail, tri-colored blackbird, 

northern waterthrush, California wolverine, Pacific fisher, pygmy rabbit, Oregon spotted frog, Crater 

Lake tightcoil, silver-bordered fritillary, and Johnson’s hairstreak and their habitats for the Deschutes 

National Forest. Alternatives 2 and 3 would have No Impact to the Lewis’ woodpecker, white-headed 

woodpecker, and Townsend’s big-eared bat and their habitats for the Deschutes National Forest. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a Beneficial Impact to the bald eagle, peregrine falcon, Townsend’s bigeared bat, and Johnson’s hairstreak and their habitats for the Ochoco National Forest. Alternatives 2 and 3 

would have No Impact to the bufflehead, western sage grouse, tri-colored blackbird, Lewis’ woodpecker, 

white-headed woodpecker, upland sandpiper, pygmy rabbit, Columbia spotted frog, and silver-bordered 

fritillary and their habitats for the Ochoco National Forest. Alternatives 2 and 3 would be consistent with 

the Deschutes, Ochoco, and Crooked River National Grassland Land and Resource Management Plans for 

all sensitive species.

• Alternatives 2 and 3 would result in decreased disturbance for 17 management indicator species 

(MIS) on the Deschutes and three MIS on the Ochoco while four MIS on the Deschutes and five MIS 

on the Ochoco remain unchanged. 

• Alternatives 2 and 3 would be consistent with the standards and guidelines for the Deschutes, 

Ochoco, and Crooked River National Grassland Land and Resource Management Plans for 

management indicator species. Habitat would not be removed or altered and disturbance would be 

decreased for many species. 

• Alternatives 2 and 3 would result in decreased disturbance for 28 landbird species on the Deschutes 

and 15 landbird species on the Ochoco while nine landbird species on the Deschutes and 21 landbird 

species on the Ochoco remain unchanged. 

• Alternatives 2 and 3 are consistent with the biological objectives outlined in the Conservation 

Strategies for Landbirds of the East-slope Cascades (Altman 2000), Columbia Plateau (Altman and 

Holmes 2000), and Northern Rocky Mountains (Altman 2000a). Habitat would not be removed or 

altered and disturbance is decreased for many species. 

Range and Livestock Management

Alternative 1 would potentially have mixed effects on grazing management and activities. Incidents of 

damage to range improvements and livestock associated with motorized access would likely continue and 

increase with expected population growth. When dispersed campsites become fully occupied, it is 

anticipated that less desirable sites located in water allotments may become occupied, rendering the range 

improvement nonfunctional, and thus affecting permittee operations. This would have the most effect on 

areas where stock water is a limited resource. Under Alternatives 2 and 3, the majority of grazing 

operations would be closed to cross-country travel. Based upon past observations this would result in a 

considerable reduction in the amount of damage to range improvements (both intentional and accidental),. 

Both action alternatives would result in an indirect reduction of the spread and establishment of invasive 

plant species, as rangeland plant associations tend to be highly susceptible and sensitive to invasive plant 

infestation and invasion. Cumulatively, Alternative 2 is expected to result in overall improved distribution 

of domestic livestock and a net positive impact on grazing and grazing operations. The Special Provision

in Alternatives 2 and 3 limiting motorized access for dispersed camping in riparian areas, would be 
Summary of the Final Environmental Impact Statement

xxviii Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

expected to slightly reduce the dispersal of cattle (on active cattle allotments) associated with occupied 

dispersed campsites. 

Fire Risk

Under the no-action Alternative, there would be continued access and use of user-created roads and trails 

for suppression resources and continued human-caused ignitions associated with motorized access across 

the Forests. Additionally, under Alternative 1, as urban populations and Forest use increases into the 

future, unplanned human-caused ignitions from both motorized and non-motorized users would likely 

also increase. Alternatives 2 and 3 would have effects on fire risk because ignitions associated with 

motorized access or caused by motorized vehicles (e.g., ejected sparks or direct contact with vegetation) 

would be limited to motorized vehicles operating where motorized use would be allowed.. That area 

would be within 300 feet of open designated routes or areas proposed to be open to cross-country travel 

(i.e., rock/gravel pits). It is most likely that under Alternatives 2 and 3, the total number of unplanned 

human-caused ignitions associated with motorized access across the administrative units per year would 

likely remain the same or increase with projected increases in forest use, but would tend to be shifted 

from the broader landscape and be more concentrated in the previously mentioned areas where motorized 

use would be allowed. However, Alternatives 2 and 3 would not affect non-motorized travel, so the effect 

of this is not directly quantifiable. 

System roads currently open to public use that do not have an existing decision to close them, would 

remain open under these alternatives. Therefore, access to ignitions by suppression resources would not 

be affected by Alternatives 2 and 3. Further, use of any fire, military, emergency, or law enforcement 

vehicle for emergency purposes is exempt from this decision (See Chapter 2 – Exemptions or Exceptions 

Identified by the Travel Management Rule). Alternatives 2 and 3 could lead to the eventual elimination of 

unauthorized roads and trails that could function as preliminary fuel/fire breaks from which to more 

safely and/or efficiently access an ignition, build a fire line, or perform a burn-out operation, if an ignition 

were to occur. However, since vegetation recovery is slow to absent any specific rehabilitation efforts, it 

is expected that these areas would exist for 10 years or more, depending on the site conditions. 

Heritage

Alternative 1 has the greatest potential for adversely affecting heritage resource sites. Inadvertent impacts 

from cross-country travel and motorized access to dispersed campsites would continue to occur, and are 

likely to increase with population growth. Heritage resources located in and adjacent to heavy-use 

dispersed camping areas, as well as user created roads and trails, are likely to be the most affected. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a beneficial effect by reducing potential impacts to heritage resources

associated with unrestricted access. The removal of cross-country travel would generally have a beneficial 

effect on heritage resources by eliminating the physical disturbances that currently threaten heritage site 

integrity, whether in highly trafficked areas or in areas at risk of newly created routes.

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a direct beneficial effect on heritage resource site locations by restricting 

motorized access for dispersed camping to within 300 feet of the centerline of all designated routes. This 

restriction would prevent new motorized access to heritage sites from being created further than 300 feet 

from designated routes. Although this rule would not affect where dispersed camping would be allowed, 

limiting motorized access for dispersed camping should reduce the impacts to sites more than 300 feet 

from an open road, and allow sites greater than 300 feet from an open road to recover from the impacts of 

motorized access, and dispersed camping
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland xxix 

Air Quality

There would be no measurable direct or indirect effect to air quality since the net emissions from vehicles, 

vehicle travel, forest management activities, and wildfires are unlikely to change under the proposed 

action or alternatives. Under Alternatives 2 and 3, there may be some increased temporary localized air 

quality impairment from vehicle emissions and fugitive dust from confining motor vehicles into less area. 

Climate

Understanding and documenting the effects of 1) Forest Service decisions on climate change and 2) 

climate change on Forest Service decisions are important priorities for the agency under Chief Tidwell. 

The Washington Office has issued guidance to units outlining procedures for assessing the effect of 

proposals on the climate. Following that guidance, the interdisciplinary team considered the potential

direct effect of the proposed action and alternatives on the emission of greenhouse gases and determined 

that there would be no direct effect. The interdisciplinary team also considered the indirect effect of 

potential emissions causing changes in the climate due to increased atmospheric gases and concluded that 

there are no measurable indirect effects from the proposed action or alternatives. Additionally, although 

potential changes in climate were not identified in the purpose and need for action of this EIS, 

Alternatives 2 and 3 have the added benefit of being effective climate change adaptation strategies 

because they protect Forest and Grassland resources from the damaging effects resulting from motorized 

travel across the landscape, which could be exacerbated by the projected effects of climate change.

Cumulative Effects

The direct and indirect physical and biological effects of prohibiting cross-country travel, changing the 

conditions of motorized access for dispersed camping, and changing the mixed use on existing designated 

routes are beneficial. Therefore, there would be no adverse cumulative effects of implementing these 

proposed actions on any of the physical or biological resources. 

The primary potential adverse cumulative effects of these proposed actions, when considered with other 

past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future action are the reduction or elimination of certain kinds of 

motorized recreational or access opportunities on an extended area across the Pacific NW Region. The 

greatest potential cumulative effect is the loss of general motorized access off of designated routes (roads 

and trails) or outside of designated areas (cross-country travel), given the local, regional, and national 

application of the Travel Management Rule. Given the national scope of the Travel Management Rule, 

there is a potentially significant adverse effect to off-road motorized access and recreation across the 

Pacific Northwest region.

Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 1 

Chapter 1. Purpose and Need for Action

Document Structure 

The Forest Service has prepared this Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) in compliance with 

the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other relevant Federal and State laws and regulations. 

This FEIS discloses the direct, indirect, and cumulative environmental impacts that would result from the 

proposed action and alternatives. The document is organized into four chapters: 

• Chapter 1. Purpose and Need for Action: The chapter includes information on the history of the 

project proposal, the purpose of and need for the project, and the agency’s proposal for achieving that 

purpose and need. This section also details how the Forest Service informed the public of the proposal 

and how the public responded. 

• Chapter 2. Alternatives, including the Proposed Action: This chapter provides a more detailed 

description of the Agency’s proposed action as well as alternative methods for achieving the stated 

purpose. These alternatives were developed based on significant issues raised by the public and other 

agencies. Finally, this section provides a summary table of the environmental consequences 

associated with each alternative. 

• Chapter 3. Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences: This chapter describes the 

environmental effects of implementing the proposed action and other alternatives. This analysis is 

organized by resource area.

• Chapter 4. Consultation and Coordination: This chapter provides a list of preparers and agencies 

consulted during the development of the FEIS. 

• References: A list of the scientific references used in the FEIS.

• Glossary: Definitions of the specialized terms used in the FEIS

• Index: The index provides page numbers for document topic.

• Appendices: The appendices provide more detailed information to support the analyses presented in 

the FEIS. Some of the appendices are bound and printed with the FEIS and some are included 

electronically. Appendices A and E are printed with the FEIS and located at the back of the document. 

Appendices B, C, D, and F are included in CD-3 that is distributed with the FEIS. Appendices B, C, 

D, and F are voluminous and therefore were not printed in a hard copy version. They are available 

upon request in a hard copy printed format. 

o Appendix A – Black and White Maps of the Alternatives; Motorized Mixed Use Maps; 

Inventoried Roadless Area Maps (Printed and bound with FEIS)

o Appendix B – Resource Analysis Support Documentation (CD-3) 

o Appendix C – Forest Plan Consistency (CD-3) 

o Appendix D – Response to Comments (CD-3) 

o Appendix E – Letters from Other Agencies (Printed and bound with FEIS)
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

2 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

o Appendix F – List of Media Contacts (CD-3) 

• Additional documentationof the analysis process may be found in the project planning record located 

at the Deschutes National Forest Headquarters office.

Background 

In 2005, the U.S. Forest Service issued national regulations7 to allow motorized use only on designated8

routes (roads and trails) and in designated areas on all national forests. These regulations, titled: “Travel 

Management: Designated Motorized Access for National Forests and Grasslands,” (and called hereafter 

the “Travel Management Rule” or Rule) directed the National Forests and Grasslands to publish a Motor 

Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) that would show where and under what conditions designated motorized 

access would be allowed for all motor vehicles. The Rule establishes specific codes under federal 

regulations (CFRs) to enforce a consistent nationwide approach of allowing motorized access on National 

Forests and Grasslands only as shown on the Motor Vehicle Use Map.

When considering how to implement the Rule, the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest9 Supervisors 

realized their efforts would have to be sharply focused to accomplish such a change in how people have 

used motor vehicles to access the two Forests. They focused their efforts by considering the following 

factors:

• There are currently approximately 11,432 miles of roads under Forest Service jurisdiction across 

Central Oregon on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the Crooked River National 

Grassland, with about 8,000 miles that are designated as open to motorized use. Motor vehicle use on 

these roads has historically been allowed, consistent with Oregon law, and are open to use by 

highway-legal vehicles only or open to both highway and non-highway-legal vehicles. Approximately 

90 percent of these roads are open for use by highway-legal and non-highway-legal vehicles. The 

Travel Management Rule and Forest Service policy allows for these past motorized use designations 

to be incorporated without change as the designated routes required to be shown on the Motor Vehicle 

Use Map (CFR 215.50(b)). 

• On the Deschutes National Forest, the East Fort Rock OHV Trail System provides 318 miles of 

designated motorized trails and three play areas designed for and open throughout the year to OHVs 

and motorcycles, including one rock crawl play area open to all classes of vehicles. The Edison OHV 

Trail System provides 25 miles of designated motorized trails designed for and open seasonally to 

motorized vehicles under 80 inches in width, 21 miles of which is also designated for Class II (4-

wheel drive jeep-type vehicles). On the Ochoco National Forest, the 8.5 mile Green Mountain Trail is 

open to OHVs and motorcycles only, as well as the 18 mile Henderson OHV Trail System on the 

Crooked River National Grassland, which is open seasonally. The nearby Millican OHV Trail System 

on public lands administered by the BLM adds an additional 111 miles of motorized trails open yearround and 145 miles open seasonally. 

 

7 36 CFR Parts 212, 251-261, and 295

8 A designation of a road or trail includes all terminal facilities, trailheads, parking lots, and turnouts associated with the road or 

trail. The designation also includes parking a motor vehicle on the side of the road, within one vehicle length from the edge of the 

road surface, when it is safe to do so without causing damage to NFS resources or facilities, unless prohibited by state law, a 

traffic sign, or an order (36 CFR 261.54).

9 The Crooked River National Grassland is administered by the Ochoco National Forest. All references in this document to the 

Ochoco National Forest are intended to include the Crooked River National Grassland unless specifically noted otherwise. The 

Emigrant Creek Ranger District is administered by the Malheur National Forest and is not included in this analysis.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 3 

• Unregulated cross-country travel has resulted in unauthorized trails often concentrated near 

population centers, but present across the Forests. 

• The two motorized activities most likely to be affected by prohibiting motorized use outside of or off 

of existing designated roads, trails, and areas would be:

o Motorized access for dispersed camping:

Many forest users travel off of existing designated routes to access existing 

“dispersed” or informal campsites, which is an important recreation use in the 

National Forests. 

o Motorized travel off designated routes (hereafter referred to as cross-country travel) by 

off-highway vehicles:

There are many unauthorized routes that have provided the public specialized trail 

(single-track motorcycle, 4-wheel drive rock crawling, or all-terrain vehicles trails) 

or cross-country motorized access. 

• There are insufficient budgets and resources to inventory and evaluate every existing designated and 

unauthorized route or use area on both Forests in order to complete a comprehensive site-specific 

decision for all future designated motorized routes and complete a timely publication of the first 

Motor Vehicle Use Map.

• The Rule allows an option to only consider non-winter (motor vehicles that do not qualify as overthe-snow) motorized use.

• National Forest System roads on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests have existing 

designations that follow state regulation, and allow for motorized mixed-use of highway and nonhighway-legal vehicles on roads which are classified by the Forest Service as “Maintenance Level 2.” 

Based on these considerations, the Forest Supervisors identified a two-part strategy to implement the Rule 

for non-winter motorized use to meet the prescribed time frame that was within the capacity of their 

available resources and anticipated grants and budgets. The first part of the strategy was to keep open to 

motorized access, consistent with current existing conditions:

• All designated open roads that are considered suitable to continue motorized mixed-use of highwaylegal and non-highway-legal vehicles 

• Existing designated motorized routes and areas within the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest’s 

designated OHV trail systems 

• Motorized access for dispersed camping under conditions that would be consistent with the Rule and 

provide for resource considerations.

The second part of the strategy was to identify for consideration in the near term specialized areas for 

designated motorized routes, as well as areas for non-highway-legal motorized use.

In 2006-2007, the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests worked with a chartered federal advisory 

committee to develop a strategy for implementing the Rule that included two distinct outcomes. Both 
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

4 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

started with an established baseline10 of existing routes that were already designated for motorized use by 

class of vehicle and seasons of use. The outcomes were recommendations11 for:

• Options and criteria for providing motorized access for dispersed camping within the boundaries 

established by the rule; and

• Areas that could be considered for developing specialized motorized trail systems

These two outcomes are the starting points for developing specific proposed actions to implement the 

Travel Management Rule. The intent of the national Rule was to be carried forward locally under the 

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The two parts of the strategy are both a result of the Forest 

Supervisor’s interests in suitable motorized recreation and access opportunities consistent with the intent 

of the Rule. However, the proposed actions resulting from each part of the strategy have a very different 

scope and scale, and are therefore considered distinct and separate federal actions under the procedures of 

the National Environmental Policy Act. This FEIS would implement the first part of the strategy, while 

separate environmental analyses are being conducted for identifying motorized trail systems within the 

two Forests.

Purpose and Need for Action 

The Travel Management Rule was passed because of a need to resolve a number of resource and social 

concerns related to unregulated motorized travel that were detailed in the Rule. These included concerns 

such as:

• Confusion about where or when motorized access is or is not allowed, or for what type of vehicle, and 

how or where to find that information

• Resource damage from inappropriate motorized uses

• Conflicts between motorized and non-motorized users 

• Quality of recreational experiences for all forest users

Many of these concerns are illustrated on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the Crooked 

River National Grassland as well. For instance, the entire Crooked River National Grassland is currently 

closed to cross-country travel. National Forest lands have a mixture of designations related to motorized 

travel on and off roads. Use on roads can vary by season as well as by type of vehicles. Motorized use 

regulation sometimes is very specific to the type of vehicle (OHVs), or may be very broad (all motor 

vehicles), adding to the general confusion about how management direction has been intended to be 

applied. Providing consistent information about the regulations - such as keeping areas posted as “closed” 

- is difficult and costly, so signing may not be present to help people understand the regulations. Resource 

damage from inappropriate motorized use has increased on both Forests. Population growth and an 

increasing demand for many different types of recreational uses has also contributed to an increase in 

social conflicts, often between motorized and non-motorized users, which can affect the quality of 

recreational experiences for all users on the National Forests and Grassland.

 

10 The existing routes were part of the National Forest system of roads and trails and were the result of previous administrative 

actions

11 Complete list of recommendation can be found on the web at http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/centraloregon/travelmgmt/documents/20070604_final_appvd_pacrecommend.pdf 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 5 

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests have a need to accomplish the purpose of the Travel 

Management Rule12 which includes provisions to allow for reasonable motorized access for dispersed 

camping and to publish a timely initial Motor Vehicle Use Map. There is also a need to comply with 

Pacific NW Regional direction to review routes that would be shown on the Motor Vehicle Use Map as 

available for motorized mixed-use (highway and non-highway-legal vehicle use) under current 

designations (Oregon State Law) to determine if conditions may warrant changing that allowable use to 

highway-legal vehicles only. Based on initial review of the seasons of use on existing designated routes, 

there is also a limited need to make minor changes to the seasons of use in some areas to eliminate minor 

inconsistencies between those seasons of use.

The purposes of the actions proposed in this FEIS are to:

• Implement the 2005 Travel Management Rule provision13 to prohibit all motorized access off 

existing, previously designated routes, and outside existing, previously designated areas where such 

use is not currently prohibited or otherwise restricted by past actions (e.g. eliminate cross-country 

travel)

• Improve public safety, by implementing Forest Service Regional policy to determine the suitability of 

continuing to allow motorized mixed-use14 (e.g. analyze those roads which currently allow for 

motorized mixed15 use under Oregon State Law)

• Establish conditions or provisions to allow for motorized access for dispersed camping that are 

consistent with the Travel Management Rule 

• Where appropriate, to reduce minor inconsistencies, make minor changes to the seasons of use for 

designated routes

• Clarify the current conditions of use for motorized access on existing designated National Forest 

system (NFS) routes and current management direction for motorized access for dispersed camping 

• Amend the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland Land and Resource 

Management Plan (Parts 1 and 2 and associated Records of Decision) by eliminating Standards and 

Guidelines that are redundant to or in conflict with the Travel Management Rule and to identify 

conditions for motorized access for dispersed camping where needed.

• Amend the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland Land and Resource 

Management Plan (Parts 1 and 2 and associated Records of Decision) to modify some of the existing 

seasons of use on some routes to eliminate inconsistencies between beginning and ending seasonal 

use periods. 

 

1236 CFR 212.50

13 Excluding over-snow vehicles

14 Highway-legal (meets State standards for a vehicle driving on a state highway) and non-highway-legal vehicles (does not meet 

State standards for a vehicle driving on a state highway)

15 Use by highway and non-highway-legal vehicles currently allowed under Oregon State regulation
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

6 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Proposed Action 

In accordance with 36 CFR 212, 251, 261, and 295, the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the 

Crooked River National Grassland, having established through past administrative decisions an extensive 

system of designated routes and areas for motorized vehicle use in accordance with CFR 212.50(b); 

propose to:

• Prohibit motorized travel16 outside of those existing designated routes (roads and trails) and areas - 

where it is not already restricted or prohibited by law, regulation, policy, order, Forest Plan direction, 

or site-specific decision17. 

• Prohibit motorized use by non-highway-legal vehicles on some routes that currently allow both 

highway-legal and non-highway-legal vehicles based on the results of the Forest Service motorized 

mixed-use analysis. 

• In accordance with CFR 212.51 (b), allow motorized access for the purpose of dispersed camping 

within 300 feet of the centerline of open designated roads. Motorized access within 300 feet of the 

centerline of a designated route would be subject to the General Provisions of CFR 212.51. These 

General Provisions allow for limited motorized access within those areas to those classes of vehicles 

and seasons of use that apply to the adjacent designated route solely for the purpose of dispersed 

camping. 

• Motorized access for dispersed camping along some routes would also be subject to Special 

Provisions. Proposed Special Provision areas would allow motorized access within 300 feet of the 

centerline of a designated route for those classes of vehicles and seasons of use that apply to the 

designated route only for the purpose of accessing designated, defined or existing dispersed 

campsites (see Figure 2 through Figure 5).

The proposed action would also:

• Amend the Ochoco National Forest Plan to be consistent with the Travel Management Rule

• Amend the Ochoco National Forest plan to allow for motorized access for dispersed camping within 

300 feet of open designated routes on the Crooked River National Grassland subject to the General 

and Special Provisions of the proposed action.

• Rescind or modify public use restrictions that are redundant to the Travel Management Rule (36 CFR 

Part 261) 

 

16 Over the snow vehicles are excluded from this proposed action

17 This includes past decisions to close or decommission National Forest system roads that may not have been implemented 

through physical barriers or signing, or where the closure method was limited to not conducting routine maintenance activities.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 7

Figure 2. Designated sites, marked with a sign

Figure 3. Defined sites, limiting motorized access with boulders or wood structures

Figure 4. Existing sites have established fire rings or other evidence of past use
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

8 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 5. Motorized access to existing sites no closer than 30 feet to edge of stream, wetland, or water body

Based on public comments on this proposed action during public meetings, and written comments 

following publication of the proposed action and Notice of Intent in the federal register, some 

modifications to the original proposed action were made in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement,

and carried forward in the FEIS. The proposed action was modified to include some rock/cinder pits that 

are currently open to all motor vehicle use as designated areas that would be open to cross country travel.

Motorized access for dispersed camping within Inventoried Roadless Areas was modified to allow for that 

access only to designated, defined, or existing sites.

Decision Framework 

Given the purpose of and need for action, the deciding official will review the proposed action, the other 

alternatives, and the environmental consequences in order to make the following decisions:

• Determine whether or under what conditions motorized travel off of existing designated routes and 

outside of existing designated areas would be prohibited within the Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forests and Crooked River National Grassland after the publication of the Motor Vehicle Use Map 

(MVUM) in accordance with the Travel Management Rule

• Determine whether or under what conditions exceptions allowed by the rule for motorized access 

would be provided for ingress and egress to dispersed campsites

• Determine whether or under what conditions motorized mixed-use of highway and non-highway-legal

vehicles would be allowed on identified National Forest System roads

• Determine whether or under what conditions to amend Forest Plans. 

Public Involvement 

Public involvement requirements for this action are documented in the Travel Management Rule (36 CFR

212.52). On the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, there have been a variety of opportunities and 

methods for the public to become informed about, comment on, or get more involved in the local 

implementation of the Rule. 

30 ft. Edge of stream, 

high water mark
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 9 

In July and August of 2006, six public workshops were held throughout Central Oregon to inform people 

about the Rule, discuss the strategy that was to be used locally to implement the rule, to ask people about 

the areas they valued the most for whatever activities they did there, and to offer people an opportunity to 

get involved with the advisory committee that would be developing recommendations on how to 

implement the rule. Approximately 300 people attended those meetings. 

Following these meetings, the Deschutes Provincial Advisory Committee or PAC, a Federal Advisory 

Committee, chartered a Travel Management Subcommittee and Working Group. The Subcommittee and 

Working Group included members of the PAC and members of the public at large. The Subcommittee and 

Working Group consisted of 30 some members representing both motorized and non-motorized interests. 

Members represented specific organized groups, including but not limited to, Oregon Hunters 

Association, Deschutes County 4-Wheelers, Ochoco Trail Riders, Oregon Wild, Backcountry Horseman, 

Friends of the Metolius, and the general public at large. The group contributed over 1,400 hours to help 

develop a strategy and recommendations for implementing the Rule. The final recommendation of the 

PAC is available on the Central Oregon Forests Travel Management Website. The PAC recommendation 

contributed to the criteria later used to establish Special Provisions for motorized access for dispersed 

camping and to establish areas where the Forest might propose potential future motorized trails.

Subcommittee and Working Group members also assisted the Forest Service representatives in making 

presentations to various public groups and attended the public workshops to help describe the proposed 

action and their involvement in the process. 

The second round of public workshops was in July of 2007. Those workshops presented the results of the 

advisory committee’s recommendations, and offered the public an opportunity to share their thoughts on 

the recommendation. Approximately 200 people attended those meetings. 

The Notice of Intent (NOI) to prepare a DEIS for implementing the Travel Management Rule on the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests was published in the Federal Register on May 16, 2008. The NOI 

asked for public comment on the proposal from May 16- June 16, 2008. Between the months of May and 

June of 2008, six public workshops were held at various venues throughout Central Oregon to promote 

the upcoming Travel Management DEIS. These workshops were conducted in an “Open House” format 

consisting of poster displays and maps located at various stations throughout the venue which allowed for 

freedom of movement at the visitor’s convenience. Visitors were encouraged to ask questions from any 

Forest Service employee present at these meetings, many of whom staffed the various stations. At each 

meeting, Forest staff, District Rangers, and Forest Supervisors were available to talk with people about 

the Travel Management Rule, and the local implementation strategy. Approximately 140 people attended 

these workshops.

A Notice of Availability of the DEIS was listed in the Federal Register on October 09, 2009. The DEIS 

was mailed to those individuals, agencies, and organizations that requested either a hard copy or an 

electronic copy. Each mailed copy of the DEIS was accompanied by a cover letter notifying recipients of 

the six public “Open House” workshops planned for October and November of 2009. These workshops 

provided the public an opportunity to look at a hard copy of the maps, and speak to a Forest 

representative. The workshops were held in Madras, Bend, Crescent, Paulina, Sisters and Prineville. 

Approximately 75 people attended these meetings.

There was an initial 45-day comment period on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement. This was 

extended to 60 days in response to requests by respondents. The extended comment period was from 

October 9 – December 8. 110 letters from 116 respondents with 131 signatures were received during the 

extended public comment period on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement. These letters contained 

633 comments that were coded and received individual responses. Non-governmental respondents were 

primarily individuals (95), followed by preservation/conservation organizations (7), motorized recreation
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

10 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

organizations (5), non-motorized /mechanized recreation organizations (2), recreation/conservation 

organizations (1), and utilities (2). Eighty two of the respondents had mailing addresses in Oregon, 2 each 

from Washington and Montana, and one each from Florida, Wisconsin, and Connecticut. Twenty two

respondents did not supply mailing addresses. Sixty-two percent of the responses were delivered by email, thirty-five percent delivered via ground delivery, and three percent were delivered by facsimile. 

Copies of the comments and responses are included in Appendix D – Response to Comments. Three 

letters were received from federal and state agencies. Copies of government agency letters are included in 

Appendix E – Governmental Agency Comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement. 

Of the 633 coded comments, 17 were addressed by changing or modifying the proposed action/preferred 

alternative identified in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement. Sixty-two comments were addressed 

with a correction or a modification to the analysis in the DEIS. The remaining comments had already 

been addressed in the DEIS, were outside the scope of this Decision, or were determined to be nonsubstantive. Non-substantive comments expressed an opinion – such as general support or opposition to 

the proposed action or alternatives, but did not suggest a specific change to the DEIS. 

Website, Newsletters, Newspapers, and other Media Coverage

Since 2005, the two Forests have developed a network of information outlets regarding our strategy to 

implement the Travel Management Rule. These included, but were not limited to news releases, 

newsletters, and news articles. The 1,200 individuals on our mailing list were informed about the project 

through the newsletters. Seven separate newsletters were sent to these individuals throughout the project 

development phase. Our mailing list was updated as new individuals added their names to the list through 

various public meetings and other venues. Members of the public, not on the mailing list, were informed 

of the project’s status through the newspaper of record and other local newspapers in the area. The 

newspaper of record for this project is Bend's daily newspaper, The Bulletin. Nineteen news releases were 

issued by the Forest Service to The Bulletin and other local papers, radio, and television services. Six 

news articles appeared in The Bulletin discussing the intent and progress of the project work. The local 

news, Fox 39 News produced two stories discussing upcoming public meetings and how to become more 

involved with project development. Announcements and interviews on local radio stations also 

accompanied most of the news releases, and provided periodic updates on the progress of the DEIS 

process. A complete table of media releases is located in Appendix F.

Early in the process, the Forests developed an information section on our combined Central Oregon 

worldwide website18 devoted to the Travel Management Rule and our implementation process. This 

website provides the public with notification of upcoming public workshops along with access to past 

newsletters, news releases, the PAC recommendations and the majority of the materials presented at the 

public workshops, including maps. The website also provides the public with an updated timeframe and 

notification of how to comment on our process. 

What We Have Heard 

Most of the comments received during the scoping process did not suggest specific changes to the 

proposed action identified in the scoping notice. Many comments focused on how the Rule would be 

implemented, how the process to establish the Rule had not taken their concerns or desires into account, 

whether people would be able to understand where they could take a motor vehicle, whether there was 

sufficient law enforcement to implement where motorized access was allowed, and whether such a Rule 

 

18 website address: http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/centraloregon/travel-mgmt/
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 11

was fair to aging populations. Some people thought that the Forest should be completely closed to offhighway vehicles and several expressed the opinion that the restrictions proposed to implement the Rule 

were unreasonably limiting.

Scoping comments which applied to the proposed action centered on the following concerns: 

• Motorized access to National Forest System lands for people with limited mobility

• Big game retrieval with an ATV while hunting

• Motorized access for dispersed camping within 300 feet of a designated route 

• Compatibility of OHVs with dispersed camping 

• Motorized access to traditionally used dispersed camping areas 

• Motorized travel in Inventoried Roadless Areas

Motorized access is a subject of strong public opinion. Some people are opposed to a national rule 

limiting their ability to access National Forest lands with a motorized vehicle to designated routes and 

areas, while others are supportive of the rule. Some would be supportive of the rule if there were enough 

suitable designated riding areas. Many users feel that the amount of currently designated motorized trail 

areas is insufficient in either miles of trail or specialized classes of trails to provide for even a portion of 

the recreational demand. For example, there are only 21 miles of designated 4x4 trails, one 4x4 play area, 

and no single track motorcycle trails in the project area. These users also feel that prohibiting crosscountry travel would result in increasing already crowded conditions on the designated trail systems. 

For many older respondents, versatile off-highway vehicles are an important part of their ability to keep 

“getting out in the woods” as their physical abilities decline. Others use non-highway-legal vehicles as an 

alternative to larger highway-legal vehicles for short-distance local travel. 

Some people are also concerned that implementation of the Rule would close roads that they have used in 

the past. They may be using old roads or old skid trails that look like a low maintenance road that is open 

to the public, but in fact have been closed by administrative decision, just not yet physically blocked to 

motorized travel. People are also concerned whether non-highway-legal vehicles may be allowed on all 

roads under the new rules; and would like to see more of these routes become designated routes for nonhighway-legal vehicles. Some people also believe that the open designated motorized road and 

transportation system on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests is too wide-spread – that road 

densities are “too high” – for optimal wildlife habitat, to provide sufficient quantities of high quality nonmotorized recreation opportunities, or to adequately provide for general healthy watersheds and forests; 

and would like to have additional open designated routes closed. Many respondents from across the 

spectrum are also concerned about the ability of the agency to enforce a rule with such widespread

implications. 

The response to scoping notices and comments on the Draft EIS was robust. All of the comments received 

during scoping were considered to determine whether they were within the scope of the proposed action 

and categorized into issues as described in the following section. The public issues identified as a result of 

the comments on the DEIS are summarized in the Record of Decision.
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

12 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Issues 

Issues are points of discussion, debate, or dispute about environmental effects – including social and 

economic - or competing uses of the resources that may occur as a result of the proposed action. The 

issues concerning the proposed action were submitted during the scoping period, or gathered as a result of 

the varied opportunities the public had to give feedback as described above. The comments provided 

ranged from very general comments on many topics including the Travel Management Rule, to desires by 

some commenters for very specific actions to be taken. In order to sort through this variety of comments, 

the comments were classified into several groups, the first being significant and non-significant issues. 

Issues were classified as significant if they indicated a direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on 1) Forest 

resources or public use of the Forests by implementing the proposed action or 2) alternatives that would 

better inform the Responsible Official’s decision.

Significant Issues 

The project interdisciplinary team further sorted the significant issues into categories to help track how 

these issues are addressed throughout this document. They were sorted into the following categories:

• Key Issues are used to modify or develop an alternative to the proposed action. The key issues are 

specific to the proposed action and the project area. Measures or indicators have been identified 

following the issue description to assist readers in tracking how the effects of these issues are 

evaluated throughout the analysis. 

• Other Issues are identified and used to describe the effects of the alternatives on important physical 

and biological resources or social and economic conditions. Measures or indicators have also been 

identified following some of the issue descriptions to further assist readers in tracking how the effects 

of these other issues are evaluated throughout the analysis.

Key Issues

Motorized Access off Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

Areas Open to Cross-country Travel

There are mineral material sources, existing rock, gravel and/or cinder pits (and called hereafter 

rock/cinder pits), that currently do not prohibit motorized use that were not included in the proposed 

action as designated areas that would be open to cross-country travel. Several of these rock/cinder pits 

may be prized by off-highway vehicle users that like a variety of technical challenges. These areas usually

offer little chance for resource damage because they are already designated and developed for mineral 

extraction. Many of these areas have historically been used on both Forests for dispersed camping, target 

practice, rock crawling and staging areas for recreation activities, in addition to their primary aggregate 

use. Some of these pits include ponds that have been stocked with fish by the Oregon Department of Fish 

and Wildlife.

Response: The Proposed Action was modified to include criteria for maintaining current or to designate 

future rock/cinder pits as open to cross-country travel. After evaluating the 531 rock/cinder pits on the 

two Forests against these criteria, 52 rock/cinder pits that met these criteria were proposed to be 

designated as areas open to cross-country travel. 

Key Indicator: The number and acreage of rock/cinder pits designated as open to cross-country travel.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 13

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Areas Designated As Open to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Some people are concerned about the potential impacts to resources such as soils, wildlife and vegetation, 

resulting from continuing to allow motorized access for dispersed camping within 300 feet of most 

existing open designated routes. This concern is primarily for sensitive areas such as riparian areas, but 

extends to other areas within the forest as well. Concerns include denuding vegetation, wildlife

harassment, soil compaction and spreading invasive plants to name a few.

The proposed action would allow motorized access for dispersed camping within 300 feet of most roads, 

but would modify the conditions for this motorized access. Under the Travel Management Rule, all 

motorized access for dispersed camping would be subject to the General Provisions identified in the Rule. 

These provisions limit motorized access for dispersed camping to the same class of vehicle and season of 

use as the adjacent open designated road, and restrict motorized access within that specified distance 

solely for the purpose of dispersed camping. The proposed action also includes Special Provisions for 

motorized access for dispersed camping in all riparian areas; and in non-riparian (upland) areas with other 

sensitive resources as identified by the Forest Service. These Special Provision areas would limit 

motorized access for dispersed camping to designated, defined and existing sites; and would establish a 

30 foot setback for motorized access for dispersed camping to any existing site near a stream course, 

wetland, or water body (See Figure 2 - Figure 5).

People are concerned that the areas designated as open to motorized access for dispersed camping under 

the General Provisions could have a higher potential for development of new motorized access and 

dispersed sites than those areas where the Special Provisions would apply. 

Response: Alternative 3 was developed to respond to this issue. Alternative 3 would apply Special 

Provisions to all roads proposed as open to motorized access for dispersed camping under Alternative 2, 

not just riparian areas and non-riparian (upland) areas with other sensitive resources. 

Key Indicators: Acres designated as open for motorized access for dispersed camping under the General 

Provisions of the Travel Management Rule; acres designated as open for motorized access for dispersed 

camping under Special Provisions in Alternatives 2 and 3.

Inventoried Roadless Areas 

Inventoried Roadless Areas have been identified as an important resource through a variety of venues. 

These areas are important to many people for a variety of reasons, including the potential for the areas to 

become future wilderness. The proposed action would allow motorized access for dispersed camping 

within Inventoried Roadless Areas within 300 feet of existing designated open roads subject to the 

General Provisions of the Rule. If those roads are within 300 feet of a streamcourse, wetland or water 

body, motorized access for dispersed camping would be allowed only under Special Provisions. There are 

roughly 17.5 miles of road on the Ochoco and 2.5 miles on the Deschutes that are open designated roads 

in the Inventoried Roadless Areas.

Commenters during the scoping process expressed concerns about the effects of continued motorized 

access within these Inventoried Roadless Areas on roadless characteristics and wilderness potential. 

Response: This issue has two responses. The original proposed action identified for scoping was modified 

to allow for motorized access for dispersed camping within Inventoried Roadless Areas only under 
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

14 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Special Provisions in all cases, rather than Special Provisions only in riparian areas. Alternative 3 was 

also designed to be responsive to this issue by prohibiting motorized access for dispersed camping within 

all Inventoried Roadless Areas. 

Key Indicators – Acres designated as open to motorized access for dispersed camping with Special 

Provisions or closed within Inventoried Roadless Areas.

Other Issues

Many of the comments were received during scoping express concern over what are perceived as 

potentially adverse social and recreational impacts of the proposed action or alternatives and the 

perceived beneficial effects on the physical and biological components of the environment. The following 

description of these issues briefly focuses on what are the most important potential indicators of effects of 

the proposed actions in this FEIS. 

Recreation 

Motorized Recreation

The proposed action would affect those motorized users who currently travel cross-country by limiting 

motorized access to existing designated routes and areas. The proposed action would continue to provide 

for motorized access for dispersed camping, and continue to allow cross-country motorized use according 

to existing guidance in some of the rock/cinder pits and in motorized play or staging areas in currently 

designated OHV areas. 

While there are over 7,000 miles of roads available for non-highway-legal vehicles, roads do not always 

provide the recreational experience that many people look for on their off-highway vehicles because roads 

do not provide the kind of technical challenge or primitive setting that users may desire. Roads that allow 

non-highway-legal vehicles do not always connect between popular destinations and people’s homes or 

campsites. When motorized use is limited to designated routes, or if key connecting roads restrict or 

prohibit use by non-highway-legal vehicles, it results in a change in people’s ability to access the forest as 

they have in the past. 

The proposed action would substantially reduce the amount of acres available for cross-country travel. 

These acres may also include National Forest System roads that have been designated as closed to 

motorized vehicles (identified as maintenance level 1) and roads that may have been closed due to NEPA 

or other management decisions that look like an open road and have been used accordingly by the public. 

There are unauthorized trails created by a variety of forest recreationists and old skid trails created during 

logging that the public has used in the past for recreational motorized access. While there are additional 

motorized trail systems currently in the planning stages that could provide additional specialized 

motorized recreational opportunities within the next three to five years, there is uncertainty regarding the 

ultimate outcome of those systems and the degree to which they will adequately replace the current 

perceived area available for recreational motorized use. 

The proposed action would also reduce the amount of acres available for motorized access in locations 

where wildfires and vegetation treatments (hazardous fuels, timber, and/or silvicultural) have created 

more open conditions by reducing forest and undergrowth densities adjacent to existing open designated 

routes. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 15

Changes in how and where motorized access for dispersed camping would be allowed would also affect 

people who use motorized vehicles to access dispersed camping sites. Currently, with some exceptions, 

motorized access for dispersed camping has generally been allowed wherever it might occur. In areas 

such as the Grassland where cross-country travel has been prohibited for many years, that prohibition has 

not been understood to apply to motorized access for dispersed camping, except where associated with 

road closures during some of the cooperative hunting season closures. In the case of the Grassland, the 

proposed action and Alternative 3 would amend the Ochoco and Crooked River National Grassland Land 

and Resource Management Plans to clarify the conditions where motorized access for dispersed camping 

under General and/or Special Provisions adjacent to existing open roads would be allowed. The proposed 

action and alternative would add regulations for motorized access for dispersed camping across the two 

Forests and Grassland. The regulations would clearly establish what class of vehicle is allowed on 

National Forest System roads and what season of use the road is available for motorized access. 

Indicators of Effects: 

• Acres available to cross-country travel 

• Miles of existing designated motorized trails

• Miles of designated road by class of vehicle and season of use

• Acres open or closed to motorized access for dispersed camping and conditions for use

• Percent of Forest within 1⁄2 mile of open designated roads

Non-Motorized Recreation 

The proposed action would indirectly affect forest users that prefer non-motorized access and recreational 

activities by prohibiting cross-country travel and by prohibiting motorized access for dispersed camping 

in some areas. The proposed action would increase the total acreage closed to motorized access compared 

to the acres currently designated as closed on the two Forests. There would be a substantial decrease in 

the areas/acres where non-motorized recreation users could expect to encounter motorized users. There 

are many miles of non-motorized trail systems throughout the areas where cross-country travel would be 

prohibited. Reduced motorized access to areas adjacent to non-motorized trail systems would also reduce 

the potential for inadvertent use of non-motorized trails by motor vehicles. 

Indicators of Effects:

• Acres proposed closed to cross-country travel or closed to motorized access for dispersed camping 

• Miles of non-motorized trails in areas proposed closed to cross-country travel 

Congressionally Designated Areas

Congressionally Designated Areas (CDAs) are areas that Congress has identified as having unique 

characteristics. On the Ochoco and Deschutes National Forest these areas include wilderness areas, 

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area, wild and scenic rivers, and the Newberry National Volcanic 

Monument. The proposed action would reduce motorized access in those areas that currently do not 

prohibit such access. 
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

16 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Indicators of Effects:

• Overall acres proposed closed to cross-country travel or closed to motorized access for dispersed 

camping within CDAs

• Acres proposed closed to cross-country travel within CDAs

• Acres proposed closed to motorized access for dispersed camping within CDAs

Social and Economic Factors

Virtually all visitors to and users of the National Forest do so in a motorized vehicle, if only for the 

purpose of accessing a non-motorized trailhead and/or recreational opportunity. Therefore, any new 

regulation of that activity may have a social impact. For the past decade, the Central Oregon population 

has been growing and diversifying. The population is becoming more urbanized with the varying 

demands associated with increasingly recreation-oriented communities and economies. This growing 

population expresses a broad range of values, beliefs and attitudes about regulation of motorized and nonmotorized activities on National Forest System lands. Information gathered during the planning process 

indicates that the attitudes, beliefs and values of residents and visitors to the Central Oregon area are 

strongly tied to and sometimes inseparable from their activities on National Forest System lands.

The proposed actions considered in this FEIS would prohibit cross-country travel and require the use of a 

Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) to determine what routes are designated open to what class of vehicle 

(highway-legal or non-highway-legal) during what season of use; and to understand where and under 

what conditions people can drive off a road to camp. While similar regulations have been in place in 

many areas across the two Forests for some time (for instance, the Crooked River National Grassland 

prohibits all cross-country travel), the popular assumption that an area is open to travel on or off of 

designated routes unless posted closed has influenced the habits of all users of the national forests. 

Motorized trail users who commented during scoping on the proposed actions, are also concerned about 

the lack of specialized motorized trail experiences; that this type of experience would be lost if they are 

confined to a designated system of roads and trails. As described in more detail in the recreation section, 

there are limited opportunities for technical challenges and primitive recreational experiences for some 

classes of vehicles (4 wheel-drive and single track motorcycle especially). Some people feel the 

designated systems are overcrowded and in need of expansion. These activities are often family-oriented, 

encompassing a mix of age and family groups. Many motorized users like being able to combine group 

camping and off-road trail riding, as well as accessing hunting or gathering areas. 

Many people who support the Rule also express concerns over the environmental impacts of noise, dust, 

soil erosion and compaction along with wildlife disturbance that they associate with unregulated 

motorized uses. Some people indicate that cross-country travel, especially by off-highway vehicles, 

encroaches upon their rights to enjoy primarily non-motorized activities offered by the National Forests. 

These people identify the importance of the National Forests to their economic and spiritual well-being, 

and often express that they, too, have long used certain areas and have been displaced from many of those 

areas by what they perceive as the increasing number of off-highway motorized vehicles. These 

comments come from a variety of sources, including horseback riders, hikers, nordic skiers, and nonmotorized hunters.

Many people, regardless of motorized or non-motorized interests, say they made choices to live in or near 

the Forests because access and recreation on public lands is important to themselves, their families, and 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 17

their lifestyles. Some of these people live directly adjacent to public lands. These residential areas present 

a microcosm of the spectrum of social values associated with motorized and non-motorized users. 

Understanding new regulations, reading and understanding the maps and successfully applying them to 

forest conditions also can result in unintentional unlawful activity, despite good intentions. This potential 

effect could be more prevalent based on a visitor’s experience in navigating the outdoors, education level, 

or ability to read or speak in English. 

Indicators of Effects:

• Potential effects on personal attitudes, social beliefs, and social values as reflected by:

o Acres available to motorized access on and off of designated routes and motorized access 

for dispersed camping that affect valued experiences

o Acres adjacent to landowners open to cross-country travel

o Potential user interactions or conflicts 

o Regulation of motorized access

• Effects on local, regional, or national economies as represented by:

o Motorized and non-motorized recreation activities

o Use trends and associated economic contributions 

Transportation

The proposed action would restrict all motorized vehicle use to designated routes and areas and require an 

engineering analysis to evaluate the suitability for allowing both highway-legal and non-highway-legal 

vehicles on the same designated routes (motorized mixed-use). Under the action alternatives, an increase 

in overall road use could be expected in areas where there is currently a high level of off-road OHV use, if 

the OHV user chooses to use roads instead of travelling cross-country. The effect of this increased use 

could be an increase in surface wear on some roads. However, the location and amount of such an 

increase in use is not reliably predictable. 

Approximately 181 miles of roads on the Deschutes National Forest and 125 miles of roads on the 

Ochoco National Forest that are currently available for motorized mixed-use would be changed to only 

allow highway-legal vehicles if either action alternative is implemented. As a consequence of this change, 

connectivity between some roads that previously provided contiguous access for non-highway legal 

vehicles would be changed or lost. 

Indicators of Effects:

• Miles of roads changed to allow use by highway-legal vehicles only

• Areas demonstrating a loss of connectivity between roads that have allowed for OHV use in the past

Public Safety

The proposed action would change some roads that currently allow motorized mixed-use by both highway 

and non-highway-legal vehicles to highway-legal vehicles only as a result of an engineering evaluation of 

the suitability of this use. Crash probability and severity of injuries would be expected to be reduced on 
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

18 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

those roads that are changed to allow only highway-legal vehicles. However, changing from motorized 

mixed-use to highway-legal only could reduce connectivity between routes and areas that are currently 

used by non-highway-legal vehicles. 

Indicators of Effects:

• Miles of roads that change from motorized mixed-use to highway-legal only

• Descriptions of the effects to non-highway-legal vehicle users resulting from not having those roads 

available for travel 

Fisheries, Hydrology, Geology and Minerals, and Soils

The proposed action would change how motorized access for dispersed camping and cross-country travel

would affect riparian and non-riparian (upland) vegetation, soils, landslide prone areas, and potentially 

groundwater quality. 

The grass/forb and shrub components of the riparian understory contribute to stream bank stability, 

filtering of sediments or other pollutants, and in some cases, provide shade on streams and water bodies, 

particularly within 100 feet of a stream, wetland, or water body. Upland vegetation components also 

contribute to reducing erosion hazards and maintaining soil productivity. 

Motorized use, especially concentrated and repeated, can denude the soil surface of understory vegetation, 

compact the soil profile and promote instability in landslide prone areas. These changes can increase the 

amount and energy of overland flows generated during storm events, reduce the filtration capacity of 

these areas and in some instances mobilize debris or landslide material, thereby increasing the risk of 

sediment production and transport to streams from riparian and adjacent non-riparian (upland) areas. 

Sediment movement from denuded areas close to streams, wetlands, and lakes can affect surface and 

groundwater quality (particularly in areas with highly permeable rock) and fish habitat. Although 

damaged vegetation, denuded soil, and compaction effects tend to be localized and generally do not 

contribute to changes in channel conditions, alteration of these components could provide an increase in 

fine sediment to water bodies. Changes to the understory vegetation in non-riparian (upland) areas can 

increase erosion hazards and decrease soil productivity. Dormant/active landslide terrain is by nature 

unconsolidated and has a greater potential for failure than consolidated soils. This potential for failure is 

further increased by compacting soils, altering water flow patterns, or creating roads within these areas. 

Indicators of Effects:

• Acres open to cross-country travel or open to motorized access for dispersed camping

• Acres open to cross-country travel or open to motorized access for dispersed camping within 100 feet 

of a stream

• Changes in potential for turbidity or sediment introduction to streams as a result of changing crosscountry access 

• Acres within dormant/active landslide areas open to motorized access for dispersed camping, General 

and Special Provisions 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 19

• Linear feet of stream banks with potential for denuded soils and loss of vegetation from motorized 

access to dispersed sites

• Designated routes within 300 feet of a wetland, water body or stream course

Native Vegetation

Motorized use, especially concentrated and repeated use, can degrade native plant habitats by denuding 

areas of understory vegetation and compacting soils. Of particular concern are impacts to special habitats 

(areas which sustain unusual and/or particularly rich biological diversity) and rare plants and their 

habitats. The proposed action would reduce potential impacts to native plant habitats, including special 

and rare plant habitats, by substantially reducing the acreage available for cross-country travel. Some 

native plant habitats within 300 feet of roads open for motorized access for dispersed camping could 

continue to have localized impacts from motorized use. The proposed action incorporates Special 

Provisions within sensitive areas adjacent to streams, wetlands, and water bodies. The Special Provisions 

would prohibit motorized vehicles within 30 feet of a stream or water body. The proposed action also 

incorporates Special Provisions within known sensitive areas which have been identified within the nonriparian (upland) areas, confining motorized access for dispersed camping to designated, defined or 

existing sites. Even with Special Provisions, areas within 300 feet of roads open for motorized access for 

dispersed camping would continue to be vulnerable to invasive plants, which impact native vegetation.

Indicators of Effects:

• Acres open or closed to cross-country travel and motorized access for dispersed camping that 

coincide with:

o Native plants and their habitats identified by the Forest Plant Association Groups 

o Special or unique vegetation habitat types 

o Threatened, Endangered, or Sensitive plant populations 

o Other rare or uncommon plant populations

Invasive Plants

Motorized travel can transport invasive plant seeds and propagules and thereby create new areas of 

infestation. Areas disturbed by motorized recreation create habitat for invasive plants. The proposed 

action would reduce the potential for invasive plant spread and establishment by substantially reducing 

the amount of acres available for motorized travel off of designated routes. However, areas already 

disturbed by motorized recreation would continue to be vulnerable to invasive plant establishment until 

these disturbed areas become revegetated. Under the proposed action, areas within 300 feet of roads open 

for motorized access for dispersed camping would also continue to be vulnerable to invasive plants. 

However, limiting motorized travel solely for the purpose of ingress and egress into designated, defined, 

or existing dispersed campsites (Special Provisions) would help contain and possibly reduce the potential 

for invasive plant spread and establishment.

Indicators of Effects:

• Acres open/closed to cross-country travel

• Acres of known invasive plant populations in areas open/closed to cross-country travel
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

20 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

• Acres of known invasive plant populations in areas open/closed to motorized access for dispersed 

camping 

Vegetation Treatments and Wildfire

Often in locations within the National Forest where wildfires have burned or where vegetation treatments

(hazardous fuels, timber, and/or silvicultural) have occurred, forest vegetation and undergrowth densities 

have been reduced which can potentially increase accessibility for cross-country travel, or to motorized 

access for dispersed camping. Vegetation treatments are usually done along open roads which fosters this 

accessibility. The proposed action would likely reduce the opportunity for cross-country travel in those 

areas where there is overlap between wildfires, treatments, and proposed prohibitions on motorized access 

more than 300 feet off of designated routes. 

Since many vegetative treatments occur within 300 feet of an open road, there would continue to be an 

opportunity for increased motorized access for dispersed camping within areas that have or are planned 

for vegetative treatments that would also remain or be proposed as “open” to motorized access for 

dispersed camping. There would likely be no change to the potential for motorized access for dispersed 

camping for those areas within 300 feet of a designated route that overlap with wildfires and treatments 

where motorized access for dispersed camping would be allowed only to designated, defined or existing 

sites (Special Provisions). 

Indicators of Effects:

• Acres open to cross-country travel which overlap planned vegetation treatments and/or burned areas

• Acres open to motorized access for dispersed camping under General Provisions which overlap 

planned vegetation and/or burned areas

Wildlife

The proposed action would reduce the potential for habitat loss and disturbance from motorized vehicles 

by changing where cross-country travel is allowed and by modifying the conditions under which 

motorized access within 300 feet of an open road would continue. Cross-country travel has the potential 

to fragment, damage, or eliminate habitats or to disturb the use of some habitats due to noise or frequency 

of visits. Cross-country travel is likely to have similar effects to motorized use on designated routes, 

except that use on designated routes is more likely to be concentrated and at higher speeds, while crosscountry travel is likely to be more dispersed and at somewhat slower speeds. The proposed action would 

reduce the amount of area open to cross-country travel and reduce the amount of disturbance to wildlife

species and habitat.

Indicators of Effects:

• Acres of specific wildlife habitat:

o Disturbed (within 200 meters either side of open roads)

o Undisturbed (outside 200 meters either side of an open road) 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 21

Range Management and Livestock Grazing

The proposed action would change how motorized access for dispersed camping and cross-country travel, 

beneficially affect grazing operations, rangeland plant associations, and range improvements. The 

proposed action would reduce damage to range improvements while improving grazing operations by 

increasing forage quantity and improving forage quality. The proposed action would indirectly reduce the 

spread and establishment of invasive plant species, also benefiting rangeland plant associations which 

tend to be highly susceptible and sensitive to invasive plant infestation and invasion (see Invasive Plants 

section).

Indicators of Effects:

• Acres open or closed to cross-country travel and motorized access for dispersed camping that 

coincide with: 

o Open grazing allotments

o Closed grazing allotments 

Fire Risk

Fires, especially those caused by humans, are inherently unpredictable events. Therefore, analysis of them 

can only be described by relative terms based on the assumption that reducing the acreage available for 

motorized vehicle access, one causal factor associated with unplanned, human-caused ignitions, will tend 

to shift future human-caused ignitions that are associated with motorized vehicle access to the areas 

where motorized use would be allowed. The proposed action could potentially affect the location of 

unplanned human-caused fire starts by changing access for motorized vehicles. Although there are no 

statistics maintained specifically for fire starts associated with motorized access, there are related 

categories that could be associated with cross-country travel or with motorized access for dispersed 

camping. Those categories include equipment, smoking, campfires, debris burning, children, and 

unknown human-caused. 

Indicators of Effects:

• Potential change in the location of unplanned human-caused ignitions associated with motorized 

access and proximity of those ignitions to fire suppression forces.

Air Quality

Alternatives 2 and 3 affect where motor vehicles can be legally operated on National Forest System lands, 

and thus could potentially affect the location of vehicle emissions and fugitive dust resulting from vehicle 

travel. Concentrations of fugitive dust and emissions resulting from vehicle travel will tend to be localized 

within areas where motorized use would be allowed. That area would be within 300 feet of open 

designated routes or areas proposed to be open to motorized access off of designated routes (i.e., 

rock/gravel pits). Since fugitive dust emissions are highly variable and dependent on many factors, 

quantifying this spatial relocation in emissions as a result of this decision is not possible. The proposed 

actions would also have no measurable direct or indirect effect to net air quality since the emissions from 

vehicles, vehicle travel, forest management activities, and wildfires are unlikely to change. 
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

22 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Indicators of Effects:

• Change in net motorized use

• Change in location of motorized use

Heritage Resources

Motorized use can potentially damage, destroy and/or displace cultural resources sites which are fragile 

and non-renewable. Some of the sites are especially vulnerable to off-highway vehicle use. The proposed 

action would reduce impacts to heritage resources by reducing the amount of acreage open to motorized 

vehicle traffic. The removal of cross-country travel would generally have a beneficial effect on heritage 

resources by eliminating the physical disturbances that currently threaten heritage site integrity, whether 

in highly trafficked areas or in areas at risk of newly created routes. Areas subject to Special Provisions 

would further reduce the vulnerability of these sites by eliminating the creation of new disturbance areas. 

Heritage resource sites that are currently impacted as a result of cross-country travel would be expected to 

slowly recover over time due to reduced erosion and eventual recovery of soils and re-growth of 

groundcover and understory vegetation. 

Indicators of Effects:

• Acres open to cross-country travel or open to motorized access for dispersed camping

Scenery

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest Land and Resource Management Plans identify visual quality 

objectives for many management areas. These visual quality objectives are measured by the degree of 

change or alteration of the landscape with scenic views being most affected by actions that alter the form, 

line, color, and texture of the landscape, or otherwise affect the positive attributes of the landscape. Crosscountry travel or motorized access for dispersed camping can indirectly affect scenic quality by denuding 

vegetation, and causing visible “tracks” or “areas” that often alter the form, line, color, and texture of the 

landscape. This is generally most evident in foregrounds along popular use areas such as riparian areas or 

hill climb areas. 

The proposed action would not directly alter the scenic views, but may indirectly benefit them. By 

limiting motorized access for dispersed camping in some areas, visual impacts within view corridors 

would be reduced. Requiring a 30 foot setback from water bodies and stream channels would also 

facilitate vegetation recovery in these areas, providing a beneficial effect by contributing to the 

improvement of the foreground area seen adjacent to major forest roads.

Indicators of Effects:

• Acres within visual corridors limited to motorized access for dispersed camping to designated, 

defined or existing campsites

Issues outside the Scope of the Proposed Action 

The following comments or issues identified during scoping participation were not considered significant 

issues because they are outside the scope of the proposed action; have been already decided by law, 

regulation, Forest Plan, or other higher level decision; may not be relevant to the decision to be made; or 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 23

could be conjectural and not supported by scientific or factual evidence. The Council on Environmental 

Quality (CEQ) NEPA regulations explain this delineation in Sec. 1501.7, 

...identify and eliminate from detailed study the issues which are not 

significant or which have been covered by prior environmental review 

(Sec. 1506.3)....” A brief description of issues that were raised but were 

not classified as significant and the rationale for why they were 

considered to be outside the scope of the proposed action follows.

Identify a minimum transportation system as described in the Travel Management Rule. 

Response: The agency responded to this comment when the Final Directives were published in the 

Federal Register on December 9, 2008. That response states, 

Forest Service regulations at 36 CFR 212.5(b) (1) establish the 

requirement to identify the minimum road system on each administrative 

unit of the NFS, and Forest Service directives at FSM 7703.12 

implement that requirement. Identification of the minimum road system 

needed for safe and efficient travel and for administration, utilization, 

and protection of NFS lands under 36 CFR 212.5(b) (1) is separate from 

designation of routes and areas under 36 CFR 212.51. The requirement 

to identify the minimum road system was established in regulations (the 

roads rule) and directives (the Roads Policy) published on January 12, 

2001 (66 FR 3216), before promulgation of the travel management rule 

in November 2005. Identification of the minimum road system focuses 

on the need for roads in the forest transportation system, rather than on 

appropriate motor vehicle use on routes in the forest transportation 

system and in areas on NFS lands. (Federal Register- Volume 73, No. 

237/December 9, 2008 on page 74692)

Identify the original federal actions and decisions that established the existing designated road 

system.

Response: As noted by the Forest Service in the publication of the final directives for the Travel 

Management Rule, 

The agency believes that it is not necessary or appropriate to require a 

comprehensive review of the forest transportation system when 

designating roads, trails, and areas for motor vehicle use per 36 CFR 

212.51. Nothing in the travel management rule requires reconsideration 

of any previous administrative decisions that allow, restrict, or prohibit 

motor vehicle use on NFS roads and NFS trails or in areas on NFS lands 

and that were made under other authorities, including decisions made in 

land management plans and travel plans. To the contrary, the travel 

management rule provides that these decisions may be incorporated into 

designations for motor vehicle use (36CFR 212.50(b)). All national 

forests have a system of NFS roads open to motor vehicle use, and many 

also have a system of NFS trails managed for motor vehicle use. Some 

national forests have long restricted motor vehicles to designated routes 

under E.O. 11644, 36 CFR part 295, and FSM 2355. Other national 
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

24 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

forests have issued comprehensive travel management decisions that 

restrict motor vehicle use to designated routes and have issued orders 

that prohibit cross-country motor vehicle use. In these cases, the 

responsible official may, with public notice but no further analysis or 

decision-making, establish that decision or those decisions as the 

designation pursuant to 36 CFR 212.51, effective upon publication of an 

MVUM. In that situation, the only substantive change effected by the 

designation would be enforcement of the restrictions pursuant to the 

prohibition in 36 CFR 261.13, rather than pursuant to an order issued 

under 36 CFR part 261, subpart B (Federal Register- Volume 73, No. 

237/December 9, 2008 on page 74692). 

Close existing designated roads currently open to motorized travel to all motorized vehicles or 

designate roads that have been closed to motorized vehicles as open to some or all classes of 

vehicles

Response: All of these issues are outside the scope of this proposed action, which is limited to identifying 

the existing designated road and trail system established by past administrative decisions; prohibiting 

motorized access off of those existing designated routes in accordance with the Rule (36CFR 212.50(b)); 

establishing conditions for motorized access for dispersed camping within a specified distance adjacent to 

existing open designated routes; designating some areas as open to cross-country travel; and changing the 

motorized mixed use on some roads. 

Designate all dispersed campsites 

Response: Although the impacts of motorized access to dispersed camping are related to the actual 

dispersed campsite use, designating all dispersed campsites is an undertaking of a much broader and 

different scope than simply establishing conditions for continuing to allow motorized access for dispersed 

camping adjacent to existing designated open roads. Additional discussion of current programs and other 

strategies related to this issue is described under “Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed 

Study.” 

Expand areas available for motorized access for dispersed camping outside of the 300 feet buffer 

adjacent to designated routes. 

Response: The 300 foot corridor considered in the proposed action is the maximum corridor width that 

can be accommodated in accordance with Regional Guidelines for Implementing the Travel Management 

Rule (Revised 4/20/09). This regional guidance states, "A fixed distance from designated routes not to 

exceed 300 feet distance from either side of the designated route to a dispersed campsite may be 

authorized."

Determine where motorized and non-motorized use would be allowed across the landscape on all 

National Forest lands considering current trends and demands for non-motorized recreation.

Response: Decisions on where motorized access would or would not be allowed under the provisions of 

the National Forest Management Act or other enabling legislation or regulation have been made by a 

variety of past federal actions and decisions including the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest Land 

and Resource Management Plans. That kind of decision is of a very different scope and scale than the 

scope of this FEIS. The scope of the decision to be made here, is whether to prohibit motorized use off of 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 25

existing designated routes, and to establish the conditions under which motorized access for dispersed 

camping would be allowed rather than to re-examine past decisions about where motorized and nonmotorized uses might be allowed now or into the future. None of the proposed actions analyzed in this 

FEIS would preclude future consideration of this issue. 

Prohibit non-highway-legal vehicles everywhere on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests

Response: This comment was addressed in the response to comments for the Travel Management Rule. 

That response was “National Forests are managed by law for multiple uses. They are managed not only 

for the purposes stated in these comments, but for timber, grazing, mining, and outdoor recreation. These 

uses must be balanced, rather than one given preference over another.” (Federal Register- Volume 70, No. 

216/November 9, 2005 on page 68266). The response to comments also noted:

The Department recognizes this concern. Motor vehicles serve a variety 

of functions on National Forests. Motor vehicles are used in commercial 

and natural resource management activities, including maintaining utility 

corridors, mining, and timber sales.

Motor vehicles on NFS lands provide access to private land, recreation 

destinations, and destinations off NFS lands. Motor vehicles are used in 

support of other recreational activities, such as hunting and camping. 

Motor vehicles are also used as a recreational experience in their own 

right, such as for trail riding and driving for pleasure. These uses overlap 

and are not always clearly distinguishable. To create a comprehensive 

system of travel management, the final rule consolidates regulations 

governing motor vehicle use in one part, 212, entitled ‘Travel 

Management.’ Motor vehicles remain a legitimate recreational use of 

NFS lands (Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 216 / pg 68272/Wednesday, 

November 9, 2005 / Rules and Regulations).

On both Forests, there are existing dispersed campsites that are or have been accessed by a 

motor vehicle, which may be suitable for that type of access and are more than 300 feet from a 

designated system road. Exactly where all of these conditions exist is unknown. The proposed 

action could eliminate motorized access to these sites.

Response: Dispersed camping is very popular on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, and is an 

important part of the recreation opportunities provided by these forests. Much of that use is tied to 

motorized access. The ultimate goal of the Travel Management Rule is to minimize impacts associated 

with motorized access, including motorized access for dispersed camping. The Rule allows for general 

motorized access for dispersed camping. Other options that could also be considered include designation 

of routes to sites, designating specific defined areas as open to cross-country travel, or providing for 

motorized access with a written permit. The 300 foot corridor considered in the proposed action is the 

maximum corridor width that can be accommodated in accordance with Regional Guidelines for 

Implementing the Travel Management Rule (Revised 4/20/09). The two Forests will continue to work 

toward a solution to this potential problem by considering sites that are identified outside of that 300 foot 

corridor to help identify what range of options may be suitable to address that issue.

Other Activities That Could Affect Motorized Access

This section briefly describes other activities that are currently ongoing within or near the planning area 

that could also have an effect on cross-country travel or motorized access for dispersed camping in one or 
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

26 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

more of the alternatives considered in detail. These include motorized trail projects in and around the 

Central Oregon area that could change the amount or conditions of motorized access on designated 

routes; vegetation management projects that could create conditions more conducive to motorized access; 

and road management activities that could change the miles of designated roads available for motorized 

access or motorized access for dispersed camping. 

Motorized Trails Projects 

There are currently ongoing proposals or recent decisions for designating motorized trail systems on the 

Deschutes, Ochoco, and Willamette National Forests and the Prineville District of the Bureau of Land 

Management that could affect recreational motorized access in the Central Oregon area. 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests

As part of the overall strategy to implement the Travel Management Rule, the Deschutes and Ochoco 

Forest Supervisors identified several potential areas to consider designating specialized motorized trails.

These projects are going forward concurrently with this FEIS, although they are in different stages of 

planning. Only one of the proposed projects, Three Trails, is planned at this time to have a decision 

completed concurrently with the Record of Decision for the Travel Management Project EIS. Final 

decisions about the location of proposed trails, staging areas, and associated road closures or limits on 

motorized access for dispersed camping related to those projects are not available at this time.

A brief summary of the current status of each of those projects and a general timeline for completing a 

decision follows. A map of the proposed project areas is included on CD 2 – Map of OHV Trails Projects 

2009. In addition, there are maps of the proposed actions on the website. Each of these projects is in a 

slightly different time frame. The Three Trails and Lava Rock OHV Trails projects have proposed actions 

identified, and alternatives to the proposed actions are currently being developed based on the issues 

identified during public scoping. The two other projects, Ochoco Summit and Meadow Lakes are not 

expected to have a proposed action developed prior to the release of this FEIS. For all four projects 

currently under development, a brief description of the scope of the project in its current stage of 

development and expected time frame for analysis and decision are summarized below.

Deschutes National Forest 

Three Trails

Area of consideration is approximately 93,000 acres on the Crescent Ranger District on the southern end 

of the Forest.

• 100 - 150 miles of trails for all classes of vehicles in three subareas (Junction, Two Rivers, and 

Walker), each with separate staging areas, and interconnected by either a shared use road or 

motorized mixed-use roads

• Focus on providing connections between rural communities and providing a high quality riding 

experience for riders of various skill levels

• Anticipated time line:

o Proposed action and scoping notice – January 2009

o Draft EIS – Summer 2010 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 27

o Final EIS/ROD – December 2010 

Lava Rock

Area of consideration includes approximately 144,000 acres on the Bend-Ft. Rock Ranger District in the 

central portion of the Forest.

• Approximately 230 miles of motorized trails using separated and motorized mixed-use roads and 

trails for all classes of vehicles linking with the East Fort Rock OHV Trail system

• Anticipated time line:

o Proposed action and scoping notice – Spring 2009

o Draft EIS – Unknown 

o Final EIS/ROD – Unknown 

Meadow Lakes 

Area of consideration is approximately 9,500 acres on the Sisters Ranger District.

• Primary focus is restoration of lakeside riparian areas and providing for appropriate dispersed 

camping sites including some non-motorized access for dispersed camping. 

• Considering one additional link (in addition to the Santiam Wagon Road) with Santiam OHV 

Recreation area on the adjacent Willamette National Forest and limited Class II trails, mainly to 

access dispersed camp sites. 

• Potential changes to the open road system.

• Scoping - Summer 2010

• Current Status – On hold

Ochoco National Forest 

Ochoco Summit

Area of consideration includes approximately 164,000 acres

• A proposed action has been finalized, and three other alternatives developed. 

• The intent is to provide a variety of low to moderate density motorized trails within the project area. 

Action alternatives would include some smaller loops and longer route options. The trail system 

would be separated by vehicle width, providing a range of opportunities which vary by alternative. 

Motorized mixed-use roads would be included in the system of designated OHV routes, but only to 

the extent necessary to connect between trail segments. The level of opportunity for various classes of 

vehicles would differ among the alternatives. Staging areas and smaller entrance areas would allow 

camping and multiple access points to the trail system. 

• Some existing open motorized mixed-use roads where the Travel Management Project FEIS would 

allow motorized access for dispersed camping may be closed and converted to motorized trails. 

• Anticipated time line:
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

28 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

o Proposed action and scoping notice- Winter 2009

o Draft EIS- Unknown 

o Final EIS/ROD- Unknown 

Willamette National Forest 

Santiam Pass Summer Motorized Recreation Project

On October 8, 2008 the Willamette National Forest signed a Decision Notice on The Santiam Pass 

Summer Motorized Recreation Project. The Santiam Pass Summer Motorized Recreation Project is 

located on the McKenzie River Ranger District on the eastern edge of the Willamette National Forest. The 

project area has 68 miles of existing Forest roads with many dispersed camping sites located along road 

2890 and the Santiam Wagon Road. The Santiam Wagon Road runs through the project area from east to 

west. Approximately 3.4 miles of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail (PCT) is situated along the east 

side of the project area. Other recreation sites in the project area include the Hoodoo Ski Area, Big Lake 

Campground, Big Lake West Campground, Big Lake Youth Camp and many dispersed camping areas. 

The purpose of this project was to develop and implement formal management of motorized use in the 

project area. The Santiam Summer Motorized Recreation Project will provide approximately: 

• 28 miles of open roads to motorized mixed-use 

• 4.5 miles of trails that will be open to Class I and III only

• 2.5 miles of trail that will be open to class I, II, and III

• 8 miles of roads that will be converted to motorized trails

• 9 miles of roads that will be open to highway-legal vehicles

There are a few roads located within the project area that extend onto the Deschutes NF. The effect this 

would have on the final implementation of the rule was discussed in the Decision Notice. 

The Decision Notice states that the roads connecting to the Deschutes NF may be changed upon 

completion of the Travel Management Planning decisions on the Deschutes NF. The Decision Notice 

states that the decisions by the Deschutes NF will directly influence what the appropriate connections and 

use will be. The roads they are describing are the following:

• Road 2690-920, extending to trail 3558 leading east out of Ray Benson, will be closed to all 

motorized use pending the decisions by the Deschutes National Forest on their Travel Management 

Planning process.

• Road 2690-910 extending east to the Deschutes NF boundary will be closed to motorized mixed-use 

until the Deschutes NF completes their Travel Management Planning process. 

• Going south from Ray Benson Sno-Park on road 2690-920 extending to road 2690-940 which leads 

to the Santiam Wagon Road (SWR) will be left open to motorized mixed-use. 

The Deschutes National Forest is not designating new routes as a part of the implementation of the Travel 

Management Project. The proposed action considered in this FEIS does not propose to open or close any 

existing designated system roads; therefore, none of the alternatives considered in this FEIS would 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 29

change the current condition of any designated system roads connecting to the Willamette National 

Forest. However, the Meadow Lakes project, which is taking a closer look at the designated motorized 

system adjacent to Santiam OHV Area during the development of the project.

More about the Santiam Summer Motorized Recreation Project may be found at the following website:

http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/willamette/manage/nepa/current_mckenzie.html 

Bureau of Land Management – Prineville District

Cline Buttes Special Recreation Area Transportation and Access Management Plan

The Cline Buttes project lies between the Crooked River National Grassland and the Deschutes National 

Forest and encompasses about 10,000 acres of public lands surrounded by rural residential lands in 

Deschutes County. The project proposes to provide a mix of motorized, non-motorized, and shared use 

trails within the project. The proposed project was submitted for a 30-day public comment review in the 

fall of 2009. A final Decision was completed in the summer of 2010. 

Vegetation Conditions That May Affect Motorized Access 

National Forest lands where wildfires have burned or where vegetation treatments (hazardous fuels, 

timber, and/or silvicultural) have occurred that reduce forest and undergrowth densities may also have the 

indirect effect of making these areas more accessible to cross-country travel, or to motorized access for 

dispersed camping. Most of the hazardous fuels treatments and many other vegetation treatments are 

located adjacent to existing open designated routes. The proposed action would likely reduce the 

opportunity for cross-country travel in those areas where there is overlap between wildfires, treatments 

and proposed prohibitions on motorized access more than 300 feet off of designated routes. Since most 

vegetative treatments intersect within 300 feet of an open road, there would be increased opportunities for 

motorized access for dispersed camping in vegetative treatment areas. These opportunities would only be 

available in treatment areas that would be designated as open to motorized access for dispersed camping. 

There would likely be no change to the potential for motorized access for dispersed camping that overlaps 

with wildfires and treatment areas within 300 feet of designated routes where motorized access for 

dispersed camping would be confined to designated, defined or existing sites (Special Provisions). 

Appendix B-7.3 includes a list of project or planning area names and the NEPA documents under which 

most acres were treated from 2004 to 2008 that could create conditions conducive to motorized access, 

affecting what areas might be more accessible to cross-country travel in Alternative 1, or affecting what 

areas might be more accessible to motorized access for dispersed camping in Alternatives 2 and 3.

Road Management Activities

Roads and Travel Analyses

On January 12, 2001 the Department of Agriculture published its final rule and policy regarding the 

national forest transportation system. This Roads Policy was intended to ensure that the National Forest 

Road System meets current and future land and resource management objectives; provides for public uses 

of National Forest System lands; allows for economical and efficient management; and minimizes and 

begins to reverse adverse ecological impacts associated with the current transportation system. The policy 

required a forest-wide roads analysis be completed on all administrative units in the Forest Service by 

January 12, 2003. 
Chapter 1: Purpose and Need for Action

30 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

The Roads Policy required the use of a science-based road analysis process to identify needs, issues, and 

opportunities related to the road system, and to document the information and analyses used to help 

identify the optimum road system needed for safe and efficient travel for the administration, utilization, 

and protection of NFS lands. The document Roads Analysis: Informing Decisions about Managing the 

National Forest Transportation System (USDA Forest Service, 1999, Misc. Report FS-643) was 

developed and published in 1999 to provide guidance and direction in conducting the analysis. 

The Ochoco and Deschutes National Forests completed the Forest-Wide Roads Analysis in January 2003, 

as required by the Roads Policy. This analysis was focused on broad-scale issues such as determining the 

minimum set of roads needed to provide public access for low-clearance passenger cars compared to 

roads that only need to be maintained for high-clearance vehicle use. Due to the broad-scale nature of the 

analysis only the main roads on the forests were analyzed. These consisted of all the arterial and collector 

roads on the Forests as well as any local roads maintained for low-clearance passenger car use. 

Roads analysis below the forest scale was not automatically required, but could be undertaken at finer 

scales (watershed or project level) to support site-specific transportation decisions. The Roads Policy 

required that any decisions resulting in a change in public access or that may result in adverse effects on 

soil and water resources, ecological processes or biological communities, must be informed by a roads 

analysis. The Responsible Official has the discretion to determine whether there is sufficient information 

in the Forest-Wide Roads Analysis to inform a given decision or whether additional information was 

needed through a finer scale analysis. 

One of the requirements in the Roads Policy was to determine the minimum road system necessary for 

safe and efficient travel for administration, utilization, and protection of NFS lands. One element in 

determining the minimum road system is to identify unneeded roads. Since it was not practical to analyze 

all the local roads that are not maintained for low-clearance passenger car use (maintenance level 1 and 2) 

during the Forest-Wide Roads Analysis, many project-level roads analyses have been conducted since 

2003 in order to determine this minimum road system. 

For each project area on a Ranger District that may involve road management activities such as road 

construction, reconstruction, or changes in public access, a project-level roads analysis is conducted by 

the local interdisciplinary (ID) team. During the project-level roads analysis, each road in a watershed or 

planning area is evaluated by the ID team to determine if it is needed or not. If it is determined the road is 

not needed, a recommendation is made whether to decommission or convert the road to another use such 

as a trail. If it is determined that a road is needed, another recommendation is made as to whether it needs 

to be open year-round, open seasonally, or closed between project uses (maintenance level 1). In addition, 

other recommendations are made, depending on the type of use expected and resource concerns 

identified, as to any type of improvement work that may be needed for the road such as improved 

surfacing or drainage features. This list of recommendations is used to help formulate proposed actions 

within specific project areas, and for use by the Responsible Official when making decisions involving 

road related activities. These recommendations are also used by ID teams when looking for opportunities 

to reduce open road densities to reflect Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines in areas of high road 

densities, or to mitigate effects of vegetation management decisions. 

Much of the direction for The 2005 Travel Management Rule came from the Roads Policy (2001), but 

terminology was changed to reflect the analysis of trails as well as roads. For example, the roads analysis 

process is now called the travel analysis process. A Travel Analysis is required to inform decisions related 

to travel management activities such as adding or removing roads and/or trails from the transportation 

system, constructing roads and/or trails, and decommissioning roads and/or trails. A Travel Analysis is 

also required for designation of roads, trails, and areas for motor vehicle use for any project issuing a 

proposed action after January 8, 2009.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 31

Road Management Decisions

The Ochoco and Deschutes National Forests have been working toward identifying the minimum road 

system necessary for safe and efficient travel for the administration, utilization, and protection of the 

National Forests for several years through the use of project scale roads and travel analyses. Many of the 

recommendations of these analyses have been incorporated into NEPA decisions and the resulting road 

closures and decommissioning projects have been implemented by signing, barricading, or subsoiling 

these roads. Table 1– Road Management Decisions 1990-2009, displays the miles of road closures and 

decommissioning incorporated into several decisions under the provisions of the National Environmental 

Policy Act on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. Since the early 1990s, NEPA decisions have 

been made to either close (identify as maintenance level 1) or decommission over 1,200 miles of roads on 

the two Forests. On the Deschutes National Forest, approximately 77 percent of that total has occurred 

since 2000, while on the Ochoco National Forest approximately 76 percent of their total road closures and 

decommissioning decisions occurred in the 1990s.

Table 1. Road management decisions: - 1990-2009 

Deschutes National Forest 1990-2000 2001-2009 Totals

Close 216.2 370.7 586.9

Decommission 31.5 469.2 500.7

Total 247.7 839.9 1087.6

Ochoco National Forest and 

Crooked River National 

Grassland

1991-2000 2001-2009 Totals

Close 194.7 39.3 234

Decommission 30.9 32.4 63.3

Total 225.6 71.6 297.2

The Forest Service recognizes there are potential additional routes and areas that may be appropriate for 

inclusion in the National Forest Transportation System in the future. The Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forests would like to note that the proposed actions included in this FEIS are one step in implementing 

the Travel Management Rule.t Continued project level analysis and public involvement will be used to 

identify the minimum road system and to establish a motorized and nonmotorized road and trail network 

that provides the quality and experiences sought by recreationists. The Travel Management regulations of

36 CFR 212.54 provide for revision of motorized/nonmotorized route designations and motorized access 

for dispersed camping opportunities as needed to meet changing conditions. This includes the potential to 

add new routes and dispersed camping opportunities following public involvement and site specific 

environmental analysis.

Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 33

Chapter 2. Alternatives, including the Proposed Action

Introduction

This chapter describes and compares the alternatives considered for the Travel Management FEIS for the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest and the Crooked River National Grassland. It includes a 

description and map of each alternative considered. This section also presents the alternatives in 

comparative form, defining the differences among the alternatives and providing a clear basis for choice 

among options by the decision-maker and the public. Some of the information used to compare the 

alternatives is based upon the design of the alternative (i.e., acres open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping) and some of the information is based upon the environmental, social and economic effects of 

implementing each alternative (i.e., miles of road open to motorized mixed use (highway and nonhighway-legal vehicles)). 

Understanding this Chapter

The area covered by the proposed action is over two million acres.19 The current management direction 

related to motorized access on the two National Forests and the Grassland is highly variable and nuanced. 

This chapter has been organized to present this information so that people can understand what the current 

direction is and what is or is not changing as a result of these proposed actions. The following paragraphs 

summarize the information presented in each of the major sections of the Chapter. 

Maps of the Alternatives 

This section of the chapter includes a short description of what each of the alternative maps illustrate; 

how and which compact discs (CDs) contain which maps. The alternative maps illustrate the existing 

condition and proposed changes with each alternative map. . The Motor Vehicle Use Maps included with 

the Record of Decision illustrates the final selected alternative. 

Motorized Access Not Affected by the Proposed Action 

This section is a description of the current management direction related to motorized access that would 

not be changed by the proposed action or alternative. 

Alternatives Considered in Detail

This section is a description of the three alternatives that were considered in detail in the EIS. 

Alternative 1 - No-Action/no-change – 

• The no-action Alternative describes the current management direction related to cross-country travel 

and motorized access for dispersed camping as it exists today. 

 

19 Total acreages include wilderness, and may vary slightly among resource analyses due to differences between individual 

sources and/or databases used to calculate or obtain the acres (i.e., differences among Forest Service databases such as GIS, 

INFRA and FACTS)
Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action

34 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Alternatives 2 and 3 – 

• Proposed Actions Common to Alternatives 2 and 3 - This section describes the proposed actions that 

would be the same for Alternatives 2 and 3. 

• Connected Actions Common to Alternatives 2 and 3 – This section describes the Forest Plan 

Standards and Guidelines that would be amended and public use restrictions that would be rescinded 

or modified as a result of this decision. These actions are considered connected actions under the 

Council of Environmental Quality’s regulations for implementing the National Environmental Quality 

Act, and are a part of the proposed actions considered in this EIS. 

• Alternative 2 – The primary difference between Alternatives 2 and 3 is how motorized access for 

dispersed camping is provided across the two Forests. This section describes the actions proposed for 

motorized access for dispersed camping that are unique to only Alternative 2. 

• Alternative 3 - This section describes the actions proposed for motorized access for dispersed 

camping unique to only Alternative 3. 

Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Study

This section describes alternatives to the proposed action that were considered as a result of comments 

received during scoping and during the comment period on the DEIS. These alternatives were not 

analyzed in detail in this FEIS. The rationale for why they were not considered in detail is included in this

description. 

Comparison of the Alternatives 

This section displays the key differences for motorized access among the alternatives.

Maps of the Alternatives

Overview, Motorized Mixed Use and Inventoried Roadless Area Maps

The following hardcopy maps are included in Appendix A

A-1 – A-8 - Black and white overview maps of the alternatives (fold-out – 11 x 17) 

A-9 - 10 – Color maps of the proposed changes to motorized mixed-use roads 

A-11 - 12 – Color maps of the Inventoried Roadless Areas 

Detailed colored maps of the alternatives are included in an electronic format on a compact disk, or on the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest’s website (http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/centraloregon/travelmgmt/index.shtml). Printed copies of Alternatives 1-3 will continue to be available for on-site review at 

each of the Ranger District and Headquarters offices for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest and 

the Crooked River National Grassland, and at the Redmond Air Center through the close of the appeal 

filing period. Copies of the Motor Vehicle Use Map are included with the Record of Decision and FEIS, 

and will also be available at all Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest offices, including the Redmond 

Air Center after publication of the Record of Decision. The Motor Vehicle Use Map will also be available 

on a compact disc or on the Central Oregon Forests website. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 35

The alternative maps (CD 1-2) are divided into two major categories of motorized access to help 

understand the alternatives. These are formally termed “motorized access off designated routes” (crosscountry travel), and “motorized access for dispersed camping.” 

Maps of Motorized Access off Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

There are two maps that display the existing condition and proposed actions related to cross-country 

travel. These maps are displayed at a two-forest scale and illustrate the current and proposed conditions 

for motorized access on or off designated routes. 

Alternative 1 – Motorized Access off Designated Routes – CD 1-Map 1 

Displays the current management direction for cross-country travel, areas closed to all motorized access, 

areas closed to off-highway vehicle access, seasonal use areas, and roads open year-round for the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland.

Alternatives 2 and 3 – Motorized Access off Designated Routes –CD 1- Map 2 

Displays the areas where there would be no change for cross-country travel (continued existing 

condition), and the proposed changes for cross-country travel that would implement the Travel 

Management Rule for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland.

Maps of Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

There are several maps that display the existing and proposed actions related to motorized access for 

dispersed camping. These maps are displayed at about a 2 inch/mile scale for each of the Ranger Districts. 

For each Ranger District there are three maps – one for each alternative (except the Bend-Ft Rock District 

on the Deschutes National Forest which has an east and west side for a total of six maps). These maps 

display the areas currently open to motorized access for dispersed camping, and the proposed changes, 

including areas where specific conditions for motorized access for dispersed camping would apply. These 

maps are the same maps that were included in the DEIS and have errors that are noted in the Alternative 

Map Errata included with the Record of Decision. The DEIS included an indexed listing of each of the 

maps that will not be repeated in the FEIS. An index of the maps is included in CD 1 and 2. 

Alternative 1 – Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping CD 1- Maps 3.1; 4.1; 5.1; 6.1; 

7.1; 8.1; 9.1 

These maps display: 1) the existing condition for motorized access for dispersed camping, including areas 

that currently prohibit such access, or allow motorized access for dispersed camping only to designated 

sites; 2) the designated NFS roads and motorized trails (not including snowmobile trails) open year-round 

or seasonally for each of the six ranger districts on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the 

Crooked River National Grassland; and 3) the location of developed recreation sites and designated nonmotorized trail systems.
Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action

36 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Alternative 2 – Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping - CD 1- Maps 3.2; 4.2; 5.2; 

6.2; 7.2; 8.2; 9.2 

These maps display: 1) the areas that would be closed to motorized access for dispersed camping, 2) 

where motorized access for dispersed camping would continue to be open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping, with modified conditions (General Provisions) either year-round or seasonally - 3) 

areas open to motorized access for dispersed camping, under General or Special Provisions, either yearround or seasonally; and 4) the designated roads and motorized trails open to motorized mixeduse 

(highway-legal and non-highway-legal vehicles) either year-round or seasonally; and 5) the location of 

developed recreation sites and designated non-motorized trail systems. 

Alternative 3 – Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping - CD 1- Maps 3.3; 4.3; 5.3; 

6.3; 7.3; 8.3; 9.3

These maps display: 1) the conditions that would be the same between Alternatives 2 and 3 for motorized 

access for dispersed camping; and 2) the areas that would be open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping subject to Special Provisions in Alternative 3. 

Motor Vehicle Use Map 

A sample of the Motor Vehicle Use Map was included with the DEIS. This sample provided the readers of 

the DEIS a preview of the final map. The final Motor Vehicle Use Map is the official map that shows 

where and under what conditions motorized access on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the 

Crooked River National Grassland will be allowed in accordance with the Travel Management Rule. A 

copy of this map is included with the Record of Decision. The map includes two essential parts, the map 

and the map tables. The map is black and white and shows what routes and areas are open for motorized 

access, what routes have seasonal use periods, and what routes are open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping. The map tables explain the conditions of use for certain routes, such as the season of useor class 

of vehicle allowed on a particular route. The tables also show the provisions for motorized access for 

dispersed camping that apply to some or all routes. 

Motorized Access Not Affected by the Proposed Action

There are some past decisions about motorized access that would not be affected by this proposed action 

or alternatives. Past administrative decisions that have established seasons of use for specific areas (not 

including proposed Forest Plan amendments), designated motorized routes (roads and trails) or areas, and

closed or decommissioned Forest roads would not be changed by any alternatives considered within the 

scope of this proposed action. The Travel Management Rule allows for some exclusion or exemptions for 

motorized access, such as over-snow or water, as otherwise authorized by permit, and for administrative 

or emergency access not affected by this decision. Motorized access not affected by the proposed actions 

included in this FEIS is briefly summarized below. 

Exemptions or Exceptions Identified by the Travel Management Rule

There are several categories of motor vehicles and uses exempt from the prohibitions of the Travel 

Management Rule20, including: 

 

20 Federal Register, Vol.70, No.216, pps. 68291 36 CFR 212.51 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 37

• Aircraft

• Watercraft

• Over-snow vehicles21 

• Limited administrative use by the Forest Service

• Use of any fire, military, emergency, or law enforcement vehicle for emergency purposes

• Authorized use of any combat or combat support vehicle for national defense purposes

• Law enforcement response to violations of law, including pursuit

• Motor vehicle use that is specifically authorized under a written authorization issued under Federal 

law or regulations22 

• Use of a road or trail that is authorized by a legally documented right-of-way held by a State, county, 

or other local public road authority

Native American Treaty Rights

The traditional, treaty and ceded lands of three federally recognized tribes overlap the two National 

Forests and Crooked River National Grassland. These tribes consist of: The Confederated Tribes of the 

Warm Springs of Oregon (Warm Springs Tribe), The Klamath Tribes and the Burns Paiute Tribe. 

However, of the three, the Warm Springs Tribe is the only tribe with ceded land treaty rights as per the 

1855 Treaty with the Tribes of Middle Oregon. The Klamath Tribes’ former reservation is now part of the 

Fremont-Winema National Forest, and their aboriginal territory includes parts of the Deschutes National 

Forest as well. The Burns Paiute Tribe, while federally recognized, has neither a formal reservation nor 

ceded lands on the National Forests. However, their traditional territory includes portions of both Forests 

and the Grassland. It is well known and documented that members of the Warm Springs Tribe continue to 

exercise their ceded land treaty rights on the Grassland and both National Forests, mostly in the harvest 

and collection of traditional foods, such as roots, lichens and berries. The Crooked River National 

Grassland and Ochoco National Forest have mapped areas where traditional use is known to occur and 

they have coordinated with the Warm Springs Tribe on their First Foods initiative to preserve and 

maintain traditional cultural uses and their habitats. While they are less well known and documented, 

anecdotal evidence exists of traditional and ceremonial uses of public lands by members of the Klamath 

Tribes and Burns Paiute Tribe. However, the locations and details of these practices are unknown at this 

time. In general, under ceded land treaty rights, the American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA) and 

the Sacred Sites Act, the Forest Service cooperates with Tribes and individual practitioners to assure 

access to and use of public lands for said purposes. The exercise of these rights would not be affected by 

this action. 

 

21 Designating routes and areas for over-snow vehicles is optional under the Travel Management Rule. The Deschutes and 

Ochoco National Forests are not including any new requirements.

22 This includes permitted activities such as firewood cutting, commercial and personal use mushroom gathering, Christmas tree 

cutting, and other approved permitted activities where a motor vehicle may be used under the conditions of the permit.
Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action

38 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Categories of Existing Uses

As stated earlier, the purpose of the Travel Management Rule was to develop and enforce a consistent 

nationwide approach of allowing motorized access on national forests and grasslands. Due to the 

differences between the two National Forests, their respective Land Management Plans and their 

management objectives there are currently several different management directives on the two Forests 

relating to motorized access. Sometimes management objectives and/or decisions addressed motorized 

access as it related to off-highway vehicles, but not motorized access for dispersed camping, or vice 

versa. The following paragraphs describe in further detail different categories of these management 

directions. 

Designated Routes and Areas Open to Motorized Access

There are approximately 8,024 miles of existing designated roads, 370 miles of existing designated 

motorized trails, and 1,28623 estimated acres of designated areas included in existing designated 

motorized trail systems on the two Forests currently open to motorized access by either highway or nonhighway-legal vehicles or both. Designated motorized trail systems have established specific classes of 

non-highway-legal vehicles which are allowed on the trail systems. These existing designations would not 

be affected by this decision. 

Areas with Seasonal Motorized Uses

Seasonal use periods for motorized access on designated roads have been established across the two 

Forests by past administrative actions to protect a variety of resources or to provide quality hunting 

experiences. With the exception of minor seasonal use-period adjustments included in the proposed Forest 

Plan Amendments, existing seasonal use-periods on designated routes would not be affected by this 

decision. 

Areas Closed to All Motorized Access

There are approximately 198,908 acres on the Deschutes and 74,465 acres on the Ochoco National Forest 

that currently prohibit all motorized access, including dispersed camping; which would not be affected by 

this decision (see Table 3 – Acres open to cross-country travel and reference footnote). Areas that would 

not be affected by this decision are primarily wilderness areas, but also include areas where motorized 

access is restricted or prohibited by other orders or past decisions and where there are no open designated 

routes, such as Research Natural Areas and some Old Growth Management Areas on the Ochoco National 

Forest. An additional 13,525 acres currently closed to cross-country travel under a temporary public 

motorized use restriction in the McKay Creek area would remain closed but modified to allow motorized 

access for dispersed camping by the proposed action. 

 

23 Because the actual area of these sites is geographically small, they are represented on the alternative maps and in the calculated 

acres based on a 1⁄4 mile circle that is roughly in the location of the areas currently open to motorized access off designated routes 

within existing designated trail systems. This may represent a larger area than is actually designated on the ground and is only 

meant to illustrate the general location of the sites and relative acreage. Detailed maps of the designated motorized trail systems 

are available that more accurately depict the designated areas of the campgrounds, staging and other open areas within the current 

designated motorized trail systems.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 39

Areas Closed to Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Access

There are approximately 59,412 acres on the Deschutes National Forest that currently prohibit OHV use 

on and off designated motorized routes. Existing Forest Plan direction that specifically prohibits OHV use 

within a particular management area would not be affected by this decision (see Table 3 – Acres open to 

cross-country travel). The Ochoco NF does not have a similar prohibition.

Areas Closed to Cross-country Travel

There are approximately 729,187 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and approximately 204,081 

acres on the Ochoco National Forests that currently prohibit cross-country travel that would not be 

affected by this decision (see Table 3 – Acres open to cross-country travel). 

Areas Closed to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

There are approximately 202,727 acres on the Deschutes National Forest, approximately 31,66524 acres 

on the Ochoco National Forest, and 77,546 acres on the Crooked River National Grassland that are 

currently closed to all motor vehicles, or specifically to dispersed camping. Designations that prohibit 

dispersed camping would not be affected by this decision. Areas that are closed to all motor vehicles 

would not be affected by this decision unless they are within areas proposed to allow for motorized access 

for dispersed camping. 

Alternatives Considered in Detail 

The Forest Service developed two alternatives to the proposed action, for a total of three alternatives, 

including the no-action/no-change. There are two recurring terms found in the proposed action and 

alternatives that are key to understanding the maps and the descriptions of the alternatives. The first is 

“motorized access off designated routes,” which is the formal term for what is commonly called crosscountry travel. Throughout this document, these two terms will be used interchangeably. The second is 

“motorized access for dispersed camping,” which refers specifically to driving off a road to camp 

somewhere other than in a developed campground. The maps and alternative descriptions are organized to 

provide summaries of how these two aspects of motorized access are affected by the proposed action and 

alternatives. 

Alternative 1 No-Action / No-Change

The no-action Alternative is included as a baseline comparison of continuing the existing conditions 

without implementing the proposed actions as required by the CEQ Regulations (40 CFR 1502.14). The 

no-action/no-change Alternative would not implement any changes in the current management direction 

on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest regarding motorized access. The Forests would not publish 

a Motor Vehicle Use Map at this time, but would continue to enforce existing designations and 

restrictions according to past travel management maps and site-specific decisions. Alternative 1 would 

continue to allow motorized travel where it is not already restricted or prohibited by law, regulation, 

policy, order, Forest Plan direction, site-specific decision or agreement.25 Motorized access on designated 

 

24 These numbers are calculated from GIS data based on those acres noted on Alternative 2 maps as Continued Existing, Closed 

to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping.

25 This includes past decisions to close or decommission National Forest system roads that may not have been implemented 

through physical barriers or signing, or where the closure method was limited by not conducting routine maintenance activities. 
Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action

40 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

roads would continue as currently authorized. There would be no change at this time to existing 

designated routes for the class of vehicle that could use the routes under Oregon motorized use 

regulations. There would be no Forest Plan amendments to change cross-country motorized access or to 

change motorized access for dispersed.

Motorized access for dispersed camping would continue to be allowed as provided for by current laws, 

regulations, policies, Forest Orders, Forest Plan direction, or site-specific decisions. Alternative 1 would 

continue to allow, unless specifically determined otherwise by a separate decision, cross-country access 

for a variety of types of vehicles on approximately 625,430 acres either year-round or seasonally on the 

Deschutes National Forest; and on about 431,784 acres on the Ochoco National Forest. This alternative 

would not be consistent with Forest Service regulation and policy to publish a Motor Vehicle Use Map 

that would show designated routes by class of vehicle and season of use and prohibit cross-country travel.

Alternatives 2 and 3

Proposed Actions Common to Alternatives 2 and 3

Motorized Access off Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

Areas Closed to Cross-country Travel 

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the Crooked River National Grassland propose to 

prohibit all cross-country travel outside of existing or proposed designated areas and roads subject to the 

motorized vehicle and use exceptions previously described and allowed for by the Rule. These are subject 

to the conditions identified for motorized access for dispersed camping. This would include all areas that 

currently do not prohibit cross-country travel or are not otherwise permanently restricted or prohibited for 

such use by law, regulation, policy, order, Forest Plan direction, or other site-specific decision or 

agreement. The areas that would be closed to cross-country travel and those areas that are currently closed 

to cross-country travel are shown on CD – 1 –Alternatives 2 and 3 – Motorized access off designated 

routes. All routes and areas open to motorized access, including conditions of use, will be displayed on 

the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) and associated tables and 

are included with the Record of Decision for this FEIS. These maps were prepared in accordance with 

national management direction and are available to the public free of charge. These proposed actions 

common to both Alternatives 2 and 3 would prohibit cross-country travel on approximately 624,000 acres 

for a total of 1,611,862 acres on the Deschutes and 460,000 acres for a total of 723,644 acres on the 

Ochoco National Forest (see Table 3 – Acres open to cross-country travel).

Areas Designated Open to Cross-country Travel 

There are several rock/cinder pits where use by all motor vehicles is not currently prohibited. These pits

are not within a designated motorized trail system, or otherwise designated as open to cross-country 

travel. These areas are proposed to be designated as areas open to cross-country travel within defined 

boundaries in both Alternatives 2 and 3. In determining whether to continue to allow this use, the Forest 

Service considered the following criteria: 

• Dedicated use to mineral material source 

extraction 

• Current level of use by non-highway-legal 

vehicles 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 41

• Accessibility by designated roads open to 

non-highway-legal vehicles 

• Proximity to a projected and/or existing 

Class I, II or III OHV route

• Access to designated trails

• Potential staging areas for proposed trail 

systems 

• Definable motorized use boundary

• Public Safety 

o Mine Safety and Health 

Administration (MSHA) 

standards

o Backslopes and exposed faces

o Hazardous materials

• Mineral material source activity

• Separation of mineral extraction and 

recreational activity

• Potential Conflicts

o Proximity to residential areas

o Recreational uses of mineral 

material sources 

• Surrounding land ownership, allowable uses 

• Consistency with seasonal and/or other use 

restrictions

• Presence of unique or special habitats

• Changes in sensitive species requirements or 

seasonal use periods

• Presence of Invasive Plants 

• Proximity to water bodies and aquatic 

ecosystems

Based on these criteria, approximately 160 acres of existing mineral material sources (30 rock/cinder pits) 

for the Deschutes National Forest, 191 acres for the Ochoco National Forest (20 rock/cinder pits), and 61 

acres on the Crooked River National Grassland (2 rock/cinder pits) would remain open for cross-country 

motor vehicle use under both Alternatives 2 and 3. These areas would continue to be open to crosscountry travel within the defined boundaries of the rock/cinder pits. These areas are illustrated on the 

individual unit maps for each alternative.26 

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Limited Use Conditions (General and Special Provisions) for Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Both Alternatives 2 and 3 would continue to allow motorized access for dispersed camping within 300 

feet of most open designated roads on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. This allowance is in 

accordance with CFR 212.51 “... the responsible official may include in the designation (of routes) the 

limited use (emphasis added) of motor vehicles within a specified distance of certain designated routes, 

and if appropriate, within specified time periods solely for the purpose of dispersed camping....” 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would modify the existing conditions for motorized access within 300 feet of an 

open designated route to incorporate the General Provisions for motorized access on designated routes 

identified in the Travel Management Rule and to include Special Provisions that would further limit the 

use of motor vehicles in certain areas. These conditions can be summarized as follows:

General Provisions: For routes designated as open to motorized access for dispersed camping, the 

following provisions would apply within 300 feet of the centerline of the designated open route:

• Motorized access would be allowed solely for the purpose of dispersed camping. 

 

26 Because the actual area of these individual sources is geographically small, they are represented by a 1⁄4 mile circle that is 

roughly in the location of the mineral material source (rock/cinder pits). This represents a larger area than would actually be 

designated on the ground and is only meant to illustrate the general location of the sites. More detailed maps are included on CD2, Open Mineral Material Source Maps 
Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action

42 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

• The motor vehicle used for ingress and egress for dispersed camping must be the same class 

(highway-legal or non-highway-legal) of vehicle allowed on the adjacent designated route from 

which the vehicle is accessing the dispersed campsite.

• Motorized access for dispersed camping would be allowed only during the open season of use for the 

designated road within 300 feet of the centerline of the road.

• Motorized access for ingress and egress to a campsite in any area would not be allowed to:

o Cross any streams, wetlands or water bodies unless on a designated National Forest 

Systemroute, such as a bridge 

o Otherwise result in unreasonable resource damage to access the campsite with a motor 

vehicle. 

Special Provisions: Limited motorized access for dispersed camping would be applied to all open 

designated routes within 300 feet of a stream course, wetland, or water body in both Alternatives 2 and 3; 

and would vary by alternative in when they would apply to non-riparian (upland) routes.

• Routes with Special Provisions would limit motorized access for dispersed camping according to the 

following conditions in addition to those identified in the General Provisions: 

o Motorized access for dispersed camping would only be authorized to designated, defined, 

or existing dispersed campsites (see Figure 2 - Figure 4). 

o Motorized access for dispersed camping to an existing, designated, and defined site 

would not be allowed closer than 30 feet to a stream, wetland, or other water body (see 

Figure 5).

Criteria for Special Provision Areas or Areas Closed to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping Within 300 

Feet of Open Designated Routes

How and under what conditions motorized access for dispersed camping should be provided across the 

Forests under the new Travel Management Rule were considered by several people during the planning 

process. Most people that participated in the process prior to developing the proposed action, including 

the federal advisory committee that provided recommendations on how to implement the Rule, and 

people who commented after the proposed action was developed, agreed there were some locations with 

greater sensitivity to motorized access for dispersed camping than others where Special Provisions or 

prohibitions on motorized access for dispersed camping should be considered. Criteria were initially 

developed by a Forest Service interdisciplinary team and subsequently included in the Deschutes 

Provincial Advisory Committee (PAC) recommendations for implementing the Travel Management Rule. 

The criteria used by the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests described below were developed from 

that initial list and modified by the Forest Service based on further review and consideration of the 

comments provided by the public during scoping and the PAC in their final recommendation. 

The following criteria are proposed in both Alternatives 2 and 3, as a basis for current and future 

considerations of where Special Provisions may be applied. Under these provisions, motorized access for 

dispersed camping would be prohibited within 300 feet of an open designated route. 

• Open routes adjacent to sensitive or restricted areas include but are not limited to:

o Congressionally designated areas such as wilderness, Newberry National Volcanic 

Monument, wild and scenic rivers
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 43

o Areas or routes currently under or subject to agreement, Forest Plan, or Forest Code of 

Federal Regulation (CFR) temporary, seasonal, or permanent closure orders or other 

NEPA decisions 

o Riparian, wetland, or other identified sensitive resource area such as Forest Service 

sensitive, threatened and endangered species habitats, erosive soils or unsuitable 

topography, heritage resources

o Special resource management areas such as restoration or rehabilitation areas, invasive 

plant populations, day use only areas, developed recreation sites, experimental forests, or 

roadless areas 

o Areas under special permit such as resorts, ski area developments, observatories, or 

special recreation events

• Open high speed or high density travel routes including but not limited to:

o State highways, major Federal27, State, or county arterials and collector roads 

o Federal or State scenic byways

o Routes that access popular or high density recreation facilities 

o Routes that access population centers

Areas Proposed to be Closed to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Alternatives 2 and 3 both propose closing some of the same areas to motorized access for dispersed 

camping that are currently open. This would close approximately 794,722 additional acres on the 

Deschutes National Forest, and about 415,834 acres on the Ochoco (see Table 4 – Acres of motorized 

access for dispersed camping, comparing Alternatives 1, 2 and 3)

Most of these prohibitions are located beyond the 300 foot area adjacent to existing open roads where 

motorized access for dispersed camping is generally proposed. However, there are some areas currently 

open for motorized access for dispersed camping that would be closed under both Alternatives 2 and 3. 

These areas are illustrated on the Alternative 2 – Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping maps. A 

detailed list of the routes proposed to be closed to motorized access for dispersed camping are included in 

Appendix B-3, Table 9 - Routes Proposed Closed to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping. 

Special Provision Areas for Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Many areas on the two Forests were also identified as Special Provision areas, where motorized access for 

dispersed camping would only be allowed to designated, defined, or existing sites; with none closer than 

30 feet to a stream, water body or wetland. These areas were further classified as Special Provision areas 

– riparian, for those areas with water considerations, and Special Provision areas – non-riparian, for those 

areas with sensitive resources other than water. 

Special Provision Areas – Riparian

All open designated routes within 300 feet of a stream, wetland, or water body that did not otherwise 

prohibit motorized access for dispersed camping were identified as Special Provision – riparian areas. 

These designations are the same in Alternatives 2 and 3, and include approximately 19,798 acres on the 

 

27 National Forest System Road - Maintenance level 3-5 
Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action

44 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Deschutes National Forest, and approximately 39,269 acres on the Ochoco National Forest subject to the 

Special Provisions associated with streams, wetlands, or water bodies. These include areas that would be 

open to motorized access for dispersed camping both year-round and seasonally (see Table 4– Acres of 

motorized access for dispersed camping).

Special Provision Areas – Non-Riparian

Areas proposed for Special Provision – non-riparian- were identified based on the “Criteria for Special 

Provision or areas closed to motorized access for dispersed camping within 300 feet of open designated 

routes” previously described in this section. All of the proposed Special Provision – non riparian areas 

identified are the same for Alternative 2 and Alternative 3. 

There are approximately 31,246 acres are proposed on the Deschutes National Forest and approximately 

15,325 acres proposed on the Ochoco as open to motorized access for dispersed camping with Special 

Provisions – non-riparian. These include areas that would be open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping both year-round and seasonally (see Table 4– Acres of motorized access for dispersed camping). 

These areas are displayed on the Alternative 2- Motorized access for dispersed camping maps.

Areas Proposed to be Opened to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping that are currently closed under 

Alternative 1.

Both action alternatives would propose opening the same areas to motorized access for dispersed camping 

that are now closed to motorized access under existing Forest Order or Forest Plan direction. These areas 

were temporarily closed to motorized access for dispersed camping primarily with the intent to close the 

area to cross-country travel by non-highway-legal vehicles. These areas would be proposed as open to 

motorized access for dispersed camping under the General Provisions, or open with Special Provisions, 

depending upon the alternative. Approximately 45,266 acres on the Deschutes National Forest, and 

approximately 24,400 acres on the Ochoco National Forest (mainly on the Crooked River National 

Grassland) that are currently closed to motorized access for dispersed camping would be proposed as 

open, subject to the General conditions (see Table 4 – Acres of motorized access for dispersed camping). 

These areas are displayed on the Alternative 2 – Motorized access for dispersed camping maps.

Roads Proposed for Highway-legal Vehicles Only

National Forest system roads currently open to public use that do not have an existing decision to close 

them, would not be closed as a result of this decision. As part of the 2005 Travel Management Rule, the 

Regional Forester in the Pacific Northwest Region issued a letter requiring an engineering analysis for 

roads that would be shown on the Motor Vehicle Use Map as open to motorized mixed-use. As a 

consequence of this analysis, some roads that currently allow motorized mixed-use would be changed to 

allow highway-legal vehicles only. These roads are displayed in Appendix A-9-10– Roads Proposed to 

Change to Highway-legal Vehicles Only.

The results of the completed engineering analyses are documented in the Record of Decision. Table 5

reflects the expected change in roads open to highway-legal vehicles, shows the mileage differences 

between the current highway-legal system and the expected highway-legal system under the action 

alternatives based on the preliminary engineering analyses completed for the DEIS.

Based on the engineering analyses, approximately 181 miles of NFS roads on the Deschutes and 125 

miles on the Ochoco National Forest would be changed from highway-legal and non-highway-legal 

vehicles (motorized mixed-use) to highway-legal only vehicles where that use is currently allowed under 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 45

Oregon State Law. This would be a change from what the State of Oregon allows under current State 

regulation (Description of Oregon State Law related to OHV use is found in ORS 821-Off-Road Vehicles; 

Snowmobiles; All-Terrain Vehicles (Oregon Vehicle Code, ORS Title 59, Chapter 821)). 

Connected Actions Common to Alternatives 2 and 3

Forest Plan Amendments

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests each have independent Land and Resource Management 

Plans (Forest Plans) that were prepared as required by the National Forest Management Act in the late 

1980s and early 1990s. These plans differ in their landscapes, communities, and management direction. 

As described earlier, these plans have different levels of specificity about motorized access. For instance, 

both the Deschutes and Ochoco plans have similar management direction for motorized seasonal use 

periods and disturbance buffers in Bald Eagle Management Areas. However, on the Ochoco National 

Forest, some Management Area Standards and Guidelines encourage motorized use on designated routes, 

but do not specifically prohibit cross-country travel as does the Travel Management Rule. The Deschutes 

National Forest Plan does not specifically designate any areas as open to cross-country travel, but has 

generally allowed that use where it was not specifically prohibited by standards and guidelines. 

Both action alternatives would include amendments to the Ochoco Forest Plan. The amendments would 

eliminate those Forest Plan standards and guidelines that are redundant, or are in conflict with the 

regulations established by the Travel Management Rule; and allow conditional motorized access for 

dispersed camping consistent with the selected alternative. The Deschutes National Forest Plan does not 

include any specific standards and guidelines related to motorized access that would be amended to 

implement the proposed actions. 

The Ochoco Forest Plan would also be amended to adjust some time periods for motorized seasons of 

use. Some dates currently only differ slightly, and would be more easily enforced and displayed on the 

Motor Vehicle Use Map if the dates were the same... In order to match these dates up across the two 

Forests, some minor changes are proposed (See Appendix C-13 Ochoco Forest Plan Amendments) and 

displayed in Table 2. The results of these changes would be that roads would be open on the Grassland in 

the Winter Range allocations for about three days longer in September, and would be open one day longer 

on the Lookout Mountain District in Winter Range. Other standards and guidelines for seasonal use 

periods are also being changed to reflect open seasons of use as required for the Motor Vehicle Use Map 

Table 2. Proposed Forest Plan amendments for season of use

Open Season of 

Use Closure Period Reason for Closure Proposed Change to Open Season of Use Forest

4/1 – 9/27 9/28 – 3/31 Winter Range/Soils 4/1 – 9/30

Open 3 days longer in Sept

Ochoco -Crooked 

River National 

Grassland 

5/2 – 11/30 12/1 – 5/1 Winter Range 5/1 – 11/30

Open 1 day earlier in May Ochoco

These actions, common to both Alternatives 2 and 3, to eliminate redundant Forest Plan guidance, would 

have no substantive effect on the Forest Plan projected goals and objectives or standards and guidelines. 

There would be approximately three days that motorized access may be affected by the changes in use 

dates on open roads.
Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action

46 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

The Motor Vehicle Use Map published after the release of the record of decision will function as the new 

travel map for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland. 

Appendix C-13 includes a table of the specific changes to the Ochoco National Forest standards and 

guidelines. 

Forest Orders – Public Motorized Use Restrictions 

Permanent Closures

Many existing Forest Orders that establish public motorized use restrictions would become redundant 

after the implementation of the Travel Management Rule. All of these orders prohibit cross-country travel 

in some specific area. Those Forest Orders that are redundant to the Rule and establish overlapping crosscountry closures, or closures that inadvertently blocked motorized access for dispersed camping would be 

rescinded or modified to eliminate redundant regulation in concert with this decision. 

Temporary Closures 

At times, Forest Orders establish temporary public motorized use restrictions28 because of specific 

resource conditions or concerns. Wildfire areas are the most common, but not the only example of where 

these temporary public use restrictions are in place. Areas that are closed to motorized access for 

dispersed camping under a temporary public use restriction would be opened for motorized access for 

dispersed camping when the Forest Service has determined conditions are sufficiently recovered to no 

longer warrant the closure. These changes are represented in the data analysis. In some cases this may 

make Alternatives 2 and 3 appear to have more area open to motorized access for dispersed camping than 

Alternative 1. However, in practice, motorized access for dispersed camping is not prohibited in areas 

with temporary closures to cross-country motorized travel. 

Alternative 2

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Alternative 2 would include all the actions identified as common to Alternatives 2 and 3. The primary 

difference between Alternatives 2 and 3 is where motorized access for dispersed camping would be 

subject to Special Provisions. 

Alternative 2 would designate some areas as open to motorized access for dispersed camping subject to 

General Provisions only (shown as “continued existing open” or “proposed open” on the Alternative 2 

map), in the non-riparian (upland) areas. Alternative 2 would also allow motorized access for dispersed 

camping within Inventoried Roadless Areas under Special Provisions only. Alternative 2 – Motorized 

access for dispersed camping maps (Appendix A-6 and A-8) show those routes and areas that would be 

open to motorized access for dispersed camping under either General or Special Provisions.

Alternative 2 would designate approximately 353,686 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and 69,733 

acres on the Ochoco as open to motorized access for dispersed camping 29 either year-round or seasonally 

 

28 These areas are not displayed separately from permanent closures on the Alternative maps. Not all current temporary public 

use restrictions are shown on the Alternative maps.

29 Subject to the “General Provisions” identified earlier in this chapter.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 47

within 300 feet of a designated route under the General Provisions, and approximately 62,894 acres on the 

Deschutes National Forest and 54,594 acres on the Ochoco National Forest under Special Provisions, 

either year-round or seasonal. This would include approximately 247 acres of Inventoried Roadless Areas 

on the Deschutes National Forest and approximately 1,853 acres on the Ochoco National Forest, primarily 

in the Deschutes – Steelhead Canyon (1,296 acres) IRA on the Crooked River National Grassland. 

Alternative 3

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Alternative 3 would include all of the actions common to Alternatives 2 and 3. Alternative 3 would only 

allow motorized access to designated, defined or existing campsites along open designated routes (Special 

Provision conditions would apply to all motorized access for dispersed camping.). Alternative 3 would 

also prohibit any motorized access for dispersed camping in Inventoried Roadless Areas. Those routes 

and areas that would be designated as Special Provision areas are shown on the Alternative 3 – Motorized 

Access for Dispersed Camping maps (Appendix A-6 and A-8).

Alternative 3 would designate approximately 416,580 acres on the Deschutes and approximately 124,327 

acres on the Ochoco National Forest as open to motorized access for dispersed camping with Special 

Provisions. 

Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Study 

Federal agencies are required by NEPA to rigorously explore and objectively evaluate all reasonable 

alternatives and to briefly discuss the reasons for eliminating any alternatives not developed in detail (40 

CFR 1502.14). Public comments received in response to scoping on the proposed action and comments 

on the DEIS provided suggestions for alternative methods for achieving the purpose and need. Some of 

these alternatives may have been outside the scope of the proposed action and alternatives, duplicative of 

the alternatives considered in detail, or determined to be components that would cause unnecessary 

environmental harm. Therefore, a number of alternatives were considered, but dismissed from detailed 

consideration for reasons summarized below. 

Modify the motorized access for dispersed camping setback from streams, wetlands, 

and water bodies from 30 feet to 50 – 100 feet.

Response: A number of studies on logging disturbance, which generally has a much higher sediment 

delivery potential to streams than dispersed camping, found that buffers ranging from 30 to 7 meters (98 

to 23 feet) were sufficient to remove sediment (Moring 1982, Erman 1977, Clinic 1985, Rashin et al. 

2006, Haupt and Kidd 1965, and Heade 1990). Ground based logging equipment normally operates on 

slopes up to 35 percent with cable systems used above this, whereas access to dispersed campsites tends 

to be at or below 10 percent with the campsites at less than five percent. Since slope is a major factor in 

sediment delivery and potential sediment delivery increases at a faster rate on steeper slopes, the studies 

found that 10 to 7 meter (32 to 23 feet) buffers would be more representative. A 30 foot stream setback 

showed no sediment delivery to the stream when the Forest Service water erosion prediction project 

(WEPP) model was run against a 10 percent rutted access road on silty loam, loam, and sandy loam soils

accessing a simulated dispersed camp site. Dispersed sites with motorized access have been found to be 

suitable elsewhere on the forest closer than 50 feet. For example, dispersed camping along the banks of 

the Upper Deschutes River below Wickiup Dam is limited to designated sites only. These sites were 
Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action

48 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

designated after examining the site conditions and determining what existing sites would be suitable to 

maintain considering a variety of resource and social values. Site conditions play a big role in determining 

suitable setbacks, with some designated sites established within 150 feet and others as close as 30 feet. If 

a 100 foot standard buffer were employed, many sites that may be suitable would potentially no longer be 

accessible with a motor vehicle Forest-wide, dispersed camping is evaluated and managed on a site-bysite basis through the recreation program and will continue to be addressed more specifically through this 

program. For these reasons, an alternative that included a standard setback to motorized access for 

dispersed camping of more than 30 feet was not considered in detail.

The Forests should continue to permit cross-country travel in areas that currently allow 

such travel; or designate areas as open to cross-country travel, that are proposed as 

closed to cross-country travel. The Forests should also consider designating large 

contiguous areas open to cross-country travel.

Response: Alternative 1: the no-action/no-change alternative is considered in detail. This alternative 

would not prohibit cross-country travel where it is not currently prohibited. Alternatives 2 and 3 include 

designating several currently developed rock/cinder pits as open to cross-country travel if they are in 

areas that have not been closed to motorized use through past decisions, and are considered suitable for 

continuing that use according to the criteria identified by the Forest. 

The question of whether to consider designating large geographic areas as open to cross-country travel 

was considered by the PAC Travel Management Subcommittee and Working Group during their work on 

their recommendation on how to implement the Travel Management Rule. They did not support 

designating large scale new open areas at that preliminary stage because of the potential for resource 

damage, and concern about the ability of the agency to adequately monitor an area to ensure resource 

damage was not occurring as a result of that designation. There was a general recognition and acceptance 

of those existing staging areas or play areas associated with designated motorized trail systems. 

As noted in the section on related projects, there are currently several motorized trail projects proposed 

that may provide additional backcountry motorized trail access, and would include staging and play areas 

for specialized motorized recreational vehicles. Based on these considerations, designating large 

geographic areas as open to cross-country travel, is not an alternative considered in detail at this time. 

The Forests should permit cross-country motorized access for game retrieval consistent 

with the Travel Management Rule.30 

Response: Pacific Northwest Regional Guidelines retained the authority to designate motorized access 

for big game retrieval with the Regional Forester31, and limited the area to within 300 feet of an open 

designated road that could be considered for this access. This policy helps to maintain a regionally 

consistent approach to motorized access for big game retrieval on National Forest lands. This policy is 

 

30 36 CFR 212.51(b) states: “The responsible official may include in the designation the limited use of motor vehicles within a 

specified distance of certain designated routes, and/or specified time periods, solely for the purposes of dispersed camping or big 

game retrieval.”

31 The authority to designate motorized access for big game retrieval within 300 feet of a designated route is retained with the 

Regional Forester. Regional guidance states, “Big Game Retrieval: No off-road motor vehicle travel to retrieve big game will be

authorized, except by the Regional Forester. Discussions with adjacent regions and State Fish and Wildlife Department indicate 

support for not designating use of motor vehicles off designated routes for the purpose of big game retrieval.” (Region 6 

Guidelines: Implementation of the Travel Management Rule” (September 6, 2006 – Revised April 20, 2009)).
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 49

supported by other federal and state agencies, such as Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Their 

scoping comments and comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (See Appendix E) on the 

proposed action discouraged any consideration of allowing cross-country travel specifically for the 

purposes of hunting or game retrieval. 

Most comments on this topic included an unspecified or larger area than the 300 feet allowed by Regional 

Forester considered for motorized access for game retrieval. An alternative that included motorized access 

for game retrieval within the area allowed for in regional policy was not considered in detail because it 

would not very effectively address the bulk of the concerns raised about motorized access for game 

retrieval. Game taken within 300 feet of a road does not usually present an unreasonable burden to the 

hunter to bring to an open road. An alternative that included a larger area that would allow for motorized 

access for game retrieval was not considered in detail because it would not meet the purpose and need of 

the Travel Management Rule to address the environmental and social issues resulting from unregulated 

motorized access. The state agency which regulates this use has clearly expressed their opposition to 

allowing retrieval of game further than 300 feet. For these reasons, one or more alternatives to provide 

motorized access for game retrieval were not considered in detail. 

The Forests should provide motorized access for dispersed camping only with 

designated routes, some of which could extend beyond the 300 foot zone. 

Response: Providing motorized access for dispersed camping with only designated routes was not an 

alternative considered in detail because of a number of concerns that could not be addressed in the time 

frame established for completing this FEIS and publishing the Motor Vehicle Use Map. Designating 

routes to all existing dispersed sites would require an extensive inventory and evaluation of all of the 

existing sites to determine the feasibility of providing designated access. Establishing a designated access

would require additional analysis identified in 36 CFR 212.55 to determine if a route would be suitable 

for designation as part of the National Forest Transportation System. Designating a new National Forest 

system route solely to access a dispersed recreation site would also involve an evaluation of the suitability 

of the dispersed camping site that provides the purpose of the designated route. It is not really the purpose 

of the Travel Management Rule to manage dispersed camping, but rather to manage motorized access for 

that purpose in an appropriate way. Therefore, an alternative that would consider a detailed evaluation of 

all dispersed campsites as method of providing motorized access for dispersed camping was not 

considered in detail at this time. Opportunities for future designations of routes to sites could be addressed 

at the Ranger District level as a result of public comments and concerns. 

Comparison of Alternatives 

This section provides a summary of the key effects of each alternative. Information is provided in two 

ways. Table 3 - Table 5 display a numeric comparison among the alternatives of the amount of acres and 

miles of roads that are available for motorized access under the various conditions described earlier in this 

chapter. These numbers are not intended to represent exact acreages for each category of motorized 

access, but are rather intended to provide a basis for relative comparison among the alternatives. For the 

purposes of this analysis, the total acreage affected on the Deschutes National Forest was calculated to be 

about 1,612,937 acres, and for the Ochoco National Forest about 723,85532, including 110,031 acres for 

the Crooked River National Grassland. Table 6, the Issue Comparison Summary provides an abbreviated

 

32 Based on acreage computed from the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest geospatial data base maps prepared for the Travel 

Management EIS. Total acreages may vary slightly due to differences between individual sources and/or databases used to 

calculate or obtain the acres (i.e., differences among Forest Service databases such as GIS, INFRA and FACTS)
Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action

50 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

narrative description of the potential effects of the relative changes in motorized access. The narrative 

summary in Table 6 focuses on how the alternatives meet the purpose and need and responds to the issues 

described in chapter 1. 

Table 3. Acres open to cross-country travel (% of total forest acres)

Alternative 1 Alternatives 2 and 3

Deschutes Ochoco Deschutes Ochoco

Open YearRound543,136 

(34%)

189,369

(26%)

1,070

(<1%)

76

(1%)

Open 

Seasonally

82,294

(5%)

242,415

(33%)

5

(<1%)

135

(<1%)

Closeda 987,507

(61%)

292,071

(41%)

1,611,862

(~99%)

723,644

(~99%)

a - Includes areas currently closed to cross-country travel. 

Table 4. Acres of motorized access for dispersed camping33 (% of total forest acres)

Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Deschutes Ochoco Deschutes Ochoco Deschutes Ochoco

Year-round

Open +-,717

(60%)

246,712

(34%)

306,875

(19%)

53,056

(7%) 0 0

Open to 

Designated Sites 

Only

11, 850

(<1%) 0 Same as Alternative 1

Open with 

Special 

ProvisionsRiparian

N/Ac N/Ac 18,435

(1%)

29,083

(4%)

18,225

(1%)

Open with 

Special 

Provisions NonRiparian

N/Ac N/Ac 22,304

(1%)

8,899

(1%)

329,142

(20%)

61,634

(9%)

Closed 446,902

(28%)

221,619

(31%)

1,196,357a

(74%)

599,528b

(83%)

1,196,604

(74%)

601,381

(83%)

Seasonally

Open 191,468

(12%)

255,524

(35%)

46,811

(3%)

16,677

(2%) 0 0

Open with 

Special 

ProvisionsRiparian

N/Ac N/Ac 1,363

(<1%)

10,186

(1%)

1,363

(<1%)

9,747

(1%)

Open with 

Special 

Provisions NonRiparian

N/Ac N/Ac 8,942

(<1%)

6,426

(~1%)

55,753

(3%) 22,085(3%)

Total 1,612,937 723,855 1,612,937 723,855 1,612,937 723,855

a - Includes approximately 401,635 acres that would remain unchanged as closed to motorized access for dispersed camping, this 

includes 198,908 acres closed to all motorized access and 202,727 acres currently closed to motorized access for dispersed 

camping

b - Includes approximately 183,694 acres that would remain unchanged as closed to motorized access for dispersed camping, this 

includes 74,465 acres closed to all motorized access and 109,229 acres currently closed to motorized access for dispersed camping

 

33 Acreages are coincident with those acres shown in Table 3. Acres open to cross-country travel (% of total forest acres), but 

relate more specifically to where motorized access for dispersed camping is now allowed under alternative 1 and would be 

proposed to be allowed in alternatives 2 and 3.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 51

c – Under existing conditions there are no Special Provisions Riparian or Non-Riparian, therefore these categories are nonapplicable

Table 5. Expected change in roads open to motorized mixed use

Forest Open to Hwy Legal Only Open to Motorized mixed-use Open 

Alt 1 Alt 2,3 Change Alt 1 Alt 2,3 Change Miles

Deschutes NF 770 951 181 5,362 5,181 -181 6,132

Ochoco NF 242 367 125 1,388 1,262 -125 1,630

Crooked River NG 2 2 0 260 260 0 262

Totals: 1014 1,320 306 7,010 6,703 -306 8,024
Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action

52 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 6. Travel Management Issue Comparison Summary

Issue and Indicator Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Purpose and Need

Cross-country Motorized Travel

Available cross-country travel 

opportunities

Cross-country travel would not be 

prohibited with this decision on about 

39% of the Deschutes National 

Forest and about 58% of the Ochoco 

National Forest. 

Cross-country travel would be prohibited within the approximately 39% of the acres on the 

Deschutes and the 41% of the acres on the Ochoco where not currently prohibited or 

limited to designated routes. Cross-country travel would continue to be allowed within 

existing designated OHV areas.

Public Safety

Conditions of motorized 

mixed-use access on roads 

where necessary to allow for 

suitable access. 

Motorized mixed-use under Oregon 

State Law is currently allowed on 

5,362 miles of the Deschutes and 

1,388 miles on the Ochoco and 260 

on the Grassland

Approximately 181 miles of total roads currently open to motorized mixed-use on the 

Deschutes and 125 miles on the Ochoco of total road miles would be changed to only 

allow highway-legal vehicles.

Issues used to Modify the Proposed Action or Develop Alternatives

Cross-country Travel

Existing cinder and rock 

mineral sources (rock/cinder 

pits) open to motorized access. 

531 rock/cinder (approximately 1406 

acres) pits do not prohibit motorized 

access unless they have a physical 

barrier.

30 rock/cinder pits (approximately 160 acres) on the Deschutes and 22 rock/cinder pits 

(approximately 191 acres) on the Ochoco would be designated as open to cross-country 

travel.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Amount of area and conditions 

under which motorized access 

for dispersed camping is 

allowed

Motorized access for dispersed 

camping would continue to be 

allowed as provided by current 

direction. Available on about 72% of 

the total acres of the Deschutes and 

69% of the Ochoco (not all of this 

acreage is accessible to motor 

vehicles). 

Motorized access for dispersed camping would be allowed under General and Special 

Provisions on about 26% of the Deschutes and about 17% of the Ochoco National 

Forests. Some areas currently closed would be opened to motorized access for dispersed 

camping under General and Special Provisions.

Riparian areas

About 1% of the total forest acres on 

the Deschutes limit motorized 

access to designated sites. Sites on 

both Forests are regularly being 

defined with barriers to establish 

setbacks in problem areas, but no 

specific motorized setbacks in most 

riparian areas. 

Motorized access for dispersed camping is allowed only under General and Special 

Provisions when an open designated route is within 300 feet of a stream, wetland or water

body. 

About 2% of total forest acres on the Deschutes and about 4% on the Ochoco would be 

open to motorized access for dispersed camping under these conditions.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 53

Issue and Indicator Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Non-riparian (upland) areas

Motorized access for dispersed 

camping would continue under 

current conditions. Some upland 

areas on the Deschutes and Ochoco 

(Grassland) prohibit motorized 

access for dispersed camping 

Motorized access for dispersed camping is 

allowed under General Provisions along most 

open designated roads. 

Motorized access for dispersed camping 

allowed under Special Provisions when an 

open designated route in an upland areas 

meets special designation criteria for sensitive 

non-riparian resources. 

All motorized access for dispersed 

camping adjacent to open upland routes 

would allow motorized access for 

dispersed camping only under General 

and Special Provisions

Inventoried Roadless Areas

About 14% of areas on Deschutes 

National Forest do not prohibit crosscountry travel

About 75% of Inventoried Roadless 

Areas on the Deschutes, 31% on the 

Ochoco currently do not prohibit 

motorized access for dispersed 

camping 

(not all of this acreage is 

accessible to motor 

vehicles). 

Motorized access for dispersed camping in 

IRAs would be allowed on less than 1% of the 

Deschutes and less than 4% of the Ochoco 

adjacent to open designated routes under 

General and Special Provisions. 

Approximately 8% of the IRA on the Grassland 

that is currently closed to motorized access for 

dispersed camping along existing designated 

open roads would be open under General and 

Special Provisions.

Motorized access for dispersed camping 

would be prohibited in all IRAs.

Other Issues

Motorized Recreation

Amount of and uses of existing 

designated motorized trails

Over 300 miles of existing designated motorized trails for a variety of OHVs, including rock pits and staging areas open to crosscountry travel.

Area of forest within 1⁄2 mile of 

open designated road

Approximately 88% of the Deschutes and 83% of the Ochoco total acres outside of wilderness areas are within one-half mile of 

an open designated road. 

Motorized recreation use of 

designated roads 

Approximately 8,000 miles of roads are available for motorized recreation and access for highway-legal vehicles 

Just over 7,000 miles of road 

available for highway-legal and nonhighway-legal (motorized mixed-use) 

recreation and access

Motorized mixed-use recreation and access opportunities on designated roads would be 

reduced by about 181 miles on Deschutes and 125 miles on Ochoco of total miles

resulting in some reduced connectivity between road systems available to non-highwaylegal vehicles

Amount of area available to 

cross-country travel

Approximately 39% of the Deschutes 

and 58% on the Ochoco are 

currently available for cross-country 

travel. 

All motorized access would be limited to existing designated roads and trails. About 300 

acres (52 rock pits) across the two Forests would be designated for cross-country travel 
Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action

54 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Issue and Indicator Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Amount of area available to 

motorized access for 

dispersed camping and

conditions for use

Motorized access for dispersed 

camping would remain under current 

regulation

Recreational opportunities for motorized 

access for dispersed camping would be about 

the same as current uses in riparian areas 

because most riparian areas have existing 

sites; areas within 300 feet of roads in upland 

areas, would be available

Recreational opportunities for motorized 

access for dispersed camping would be 

about the same in riparian areas and more 

limited in upland areas. There would be no 

opportunities for motorized access for 

dispersed camping in IRAs

Non-motorized Recreation

Acres proposed closed to 

cross-country travel and

motorized access to dispersed 

camping

Approximately 987,507 acres on the 

Deschutes National Forest and 

292,071 acres on the Ochoco 

National Forest are currently closed 

to cross-country travel

An additional 624,355 acres would be closed to cross-country travel on the Deschutes and 

431,575 on the Ochoco. This would not directly change any non-motorized opportunities, 

but may make some areas more desirable to non-motorized users by reducing the 

evidence of motorized use in the area.

Motorized access on nonmotorized trails 

194 miles of non-motorized trails 

within areas that do not prohibit 

motorized access that may have 

motorized use on or near the trails.

There would be an increase in the areas where non-motorized recreation users would 

expect to not encounter motorized vehicle users.

There would be fewer potential encounters with motorized vehicles adjacent to or on nonmotorized trails.

Congressionally Designated Areas (CDA)

Area available for crosscountry travel

Less than 1% of the areas are available for cross-country travel.

This would reduce the potential for motorized use to affect the values of our CDAs, and would help to protect and enhance the

values.

Areas available to motorized 

access for dispersed camping 

Motorized access for dispersed 

camping would remain under current 

regulation.

Recreational opportunities for motorized 

access for dispersed camping would be about 

the same as current uses in riparian areas 

because most riparian areas have existing 

sites, areas within 300 feet of roads in upland 

areas, would be available

Recreational opportunities for motorized 

access for dispersed camping would be 

limited to existing, defined or designated 

sites; no new sites. This would be the 

same as Alternative 2 for the most heavily 

used areas, but would affect motorized 

access for dispersed camping in unused 

upland areas

Social Factors

Amount and conditions for 

motorized access on 

designated roads and trails 

across the forests and within 

the wildland-urban interface 

Continued motorized access under current conditions on existing designated roads and trails allow motorized access within 1⁄2 

mile of more than 80% of the two Forests. Equal amount of motorized access opportunities in all alternatives for primitive 

motorized exploration on open designated system roads and trails and motorized access to the road and trail system from 

neighborhoods

Motorized opportunities and 

conditions for cross-country 

travel across the Forests 

39% of Deschutes and 60% of 

Ochoco would provide cross-country 

travel opportunities

About 1% of the two National Forests would be open to cross-country travel, significantly 

reducing the amount of area that currently does not prohibit motorized cross-country 

travel. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 55

Issue and Indicator Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Non-motorized opportunities 

and conditions across the 

forests 

61% of the Deschutes and 40% of 

the Ochoco NF would offer primary 

or exclusive non-motorized uses. 

Alternative 1 would provide the least 

amount of area closed to crosscountry travel of the three

alternatives.

Most of the National Forest lands would be closed to cross-country travel, creating more 

opportunities for non-motorized recreation away from the sights and sounds of motor 

vehicles. 

Ease of public understanding 

of applicable motorized 

regulation or policy and 

agency ability to enforce

Current regulation is derived from a 

mix of Forest Plan direction,and 

includes inconsistent terminology 

that makes intended motorized 

access direction difficult to interpret. 

Regulations for motorized access 

must be posted and maintained on 

site . 

Motor Vehicle Use Map is published, annually updated, and distributed free of cost to the 

public. All information about motorized access is contained on the Motor Vehicle Use Map

Includes multiple conditions for motorized 

access for dispersed camping, which allows 

for more choice. Locating specific road 

segments comparing them to a lengthy table 

on the map are needed to determine if a 

road is: 1) within 300 feet of a stream, 

wetland, or waterbody.to decide if motorized 

access is allowed anywhere or only to 

existing, designated, or defined sites where 

a blanket Special Provision applies, or 2) in 

an upland area where a Special Provision 

applies. Conditions of use could vary along 

a particular segment of road or stream if 

distance between the road and water body 

varies more or less than 300 feet. 

Has only one condition for motorized access 

for dispersed camping along any open 

designated road. Limits choices to areas 

with evidence and/or history of past uses. 

Map interpretation is required to determine if 

motorized access for dispersed camping is 

allowed or not, and to read the condition for 

motorized access for dispersed camping. 

Same conditions would apply to motorized 

access for all sites.

Economic Factors

Recreation use trends and 

economic contributions

Overall contributions and trends to the local or regional economy from either motorized or non-motorized uses are unlikely to 

change in any alternative. Data indicates non-motorized uses and contributions to the economy are currently and anticipated to 

continue to dominate compared to motorized uses.

Transportation

Effects on existing 

transportation system from 

changes in use on and off 

designated roads 

Approximately 8,000 miles of roads 

are currently open for public use 

across the Ochoco and Deschutes 

National Forests and Crooked River 

National Grassland. These roads 

would continue to be used as they 

are presently, and public use would 

remain as it is today.

Alternatives 2 and 3 could be expected to increase overall road use in areas where there 

is currently a high level of off-road motorized vehicle use if ohv users choose to use roads 

where they are currently travelling cross-country. However, the location and amount that 

use may change as a result of this proposed action when compared to other uses is 

unpredictable. 
Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action

56 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Issue and Indicator Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Fisheries/Hydrology

Acres open to cross-country 

travel and motorized access 

for dispersed camping within 

100 feet of a stream 

Sediment, turbidity and shade would 

continue to be affected on 

approximately 55,850 acres on both 

Forests where cross-country travel 

and motorized access for dispersed 

camping is allowed within 100 feet of 

water bodies.

Cross-cross country travel would be eliminated within 100 feet of water bodies, eliminating 

the potential for effects to fisheries and water quality. Dispersed camping limited to 

existing, designated, or defined sites no closer than 30 feet to streams, wetland, and water 

bodies (Special Provision) would reduce the amount of open acres to approximately 

20,000 acres across both Forests. This would allow for increased infiltration from 

vegetative recovery, and would reduce potential sediment and turbidity effects on fisheries 

and water quality.

Geology and Minerals

Acres available to and 

conditions for motorized 

access within dormant/active 

landslide areas 

Landslide terrain acres would 

continue to be susceptible to new 

disturbance from cross-country 

travel and motorized access for 

dispersed camping on about 3 active

and 214 dormant acres on the 

Deschutes and 46 active and 64,398 

dormant acres on the Ochoco 

Landslide terrain acres susceptibility to new disturbance from cross-country travel would 

be eliminated across both Forests.

Susceptibility to new disturbance from motorized access for dispersed camping would be 

reduced by limiting motorized access for dispersed camping to General and Special 

Provisions, especially within riparian areas. On the Deschutes, susceptibility on dormant 

acres would be reduced from 214 to 88; on the Ochoco, from about 64,000 to 12,000

acres. Susceptibility to new disturbance on active landslide terrain would not be changed 

on the Deschutes, but would be reduced on the Ochoco from 46 acres to about 12 acres. 

On the Grassland, approximately 255 acres of dormant landslide terrain acres would be 

potentially available for motorized access for dispersed camping within 300 feet of existing 

open designated roads under General or Special Provisions. 

Acres of highly permeable rock 

susceptible to disturbance 

from motorized access 

Susceptibility within riparian and 

upland areas would continue over 

about 492,331 acres across both 

forests. 

Susceptibility to new disturbance from cross-country travel would be reduced across both 

Forests. 

Susceptibility to new disturbance from motorized access for dispersed camping would be 

reduced by approximately 167,638 acres because of Special Provisions in riparian areas.

Soils

Acres open to cross-country 

travel and motorized access 

for dispersed camping 

Soils within riparian and non-riparian 

(upland) areas would continue to be 

susceptible to new disturbance from 

cross-country travel and motorized 

access for dispersed camping on 

about 1,057,214 acres across both

forests. 

Susceptibility to new soil disturbance from cross-country travel would be eliminated across 

both forests. 

Susceptibility to new soil disturbance from 

motorized access for dispersed camping 

would be reduced by approximately 105,638 

acres primarily from Special Provisions for 

motorized access for dispersed camping.

Susceptibility to new soil disturbance from 

motorized access for dispersed camping 

would be reduced by approximately 

529,057 compared to Alternative 1 due to 

Special Provisions for all motorized 

access for dispersed camping 

Susceptibility of salable 

minerals within developed 

sources to invasive species 

from areas open to motorized 

access 

Susceptibility would continue from 

motorized access on about 1,406 

acres open to cross-country travel in 

200 rock/cinder pits across both 

forests. 

Susceptibility of developed mineral sources to new invasive species infestations is

reduced across both alternatives by approximately 1,054 acres due primarily to closure of 

rock/cinder pits to motorized access.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 57

Issue and Indicator Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Native Vegetation

Acres open/closed to crosscountry travel and motorized 

access for dispersed camping

for: 

Native plants and their habitats 

identified by the Forest plant 

association groups

special or unique vegetation 

habitat types

Other rare or uncommon plant 

populations

Provides the least protection to 

native plants and their habitats, 

including special habitats and 

sensitive and other rare or 

uncommon plants, because more 

(often the majority) acres are open to 

cross-country travel and motorized 

access for dispersed camping with 

no Special Provisions.

Increases the protection for native plant habitats over Alternative 1, including special 

habitats and sensitive and other rare or uncommon plants, because 100% of acres are 

closed to cross-country travel.

Most special habitats and sensitive and other rare or uncommon plants are protected by 

motorized access for dispersed camping by Special Provisions. However, (16 percent) of 

upland habitats remain open to motorized access for dispersed camping without Special 

Provisions 

Highest level of protection for native plant habitats, including special habitats, and 

sensitive and other rare or uncommon plants, because all motorized access for dispersed 

camping is limited by Special Provisions (designated, defined or existing sites)

Threatened and Endangered Plant Species

Threatened and endangered 

plant populations and habitats

There are no federally listed threatened or endangered plant species or habitats documented or suspected to occur in the 

planning area. Therefore, activities proposed in the alternatives would have no effect on federally listed plant species.

Invasive Plants

Acres of known invasive plant 

populations in areas 

open/closed to cross-country 

travel

Highest risk that invasive plants 

would spread and establish, 

because more sites and acres are 

located within areas open to crosscountry travel and motorized access 

for dispersed camping 

Reduces impacts from invasive plants, because most known invasive plant sites are 

closed to cross-country travel and motorized access for dispersed camping. 52 of 531 

existing rock pits would be designated open to cross-country travel, with potential for 

spread if invasive populations are present

Acres of known invasive plant 

populations in areas 

open/closed to motorized 

access for dispersed camping

16% of acres occupied by invasive plants 

occur in non-riparian (upland) with motorized 

access for dispersed camping under General 

Provisions only; new motorized access to 

dispersed sites could be established

Provides most protection against 

establishment, spread, and expansion of 

invasive plant populations because 

motorized access for dispersed camping 

would be allowed only under Special 

Provisions

Vegetation Management Activities and Wildfires

Acres open to cross-country 

travel which may contain

conditions more conducive to 

motorized access than many 

untreated areas

Continued unauthorized route 

creation, vegetation damage, and 

possibly impeded vegetation 

response caused by motorized 

access in vegetation treatment areas 

and areas burned by large wildfires 

on about 65,780 acres on the 

Deschutes and 45,418 acres on the 

Ochoco 

Acreage vulnerable to disturbance from cross-country travel in vegetation treatment areas 

and areas burned by large wildfires would be eliminated. 
Chapter 2: Alternatives, Including the Proposed Action

58 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Issue and Indicator Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Acres open to motorized 

access for dispersed camping 

which may contain forest 

conditions more conducive to 

motorized access than many 

untreated areas

About 93,830 acres on the 

Deschutes and 55,515 acres on the 

Ochoco open to motorized access 

for dispersed camping could have 

similar effects as those from crosscountry travel.

Areas open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping under General Provisions could lead 

creation of new disturbance from motorized 

vehicles in areas where vegetation treatment 

areas or burned areas overlap. (27,005 and 

7,705 acres, Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forests, respectively) this represents a 71 

percent and 86 percent reduction from existing 

conditions. (Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forests, respectively).

Acreage available for new disturbance 

from motorized access for dispersed 

camping in vegetation treatment areas 

and areas burned by large wildfires would 

be limited because all areas open to 

motorized access for dispersed camping 

would be subject to Special Provisions for 

motorized access for dispersed camping 

Wildlife 

Wildlife species disturbed by 

motorized access (within 200

meters of open designated 

roads)

Disturbance to wildlife species would 

continue across both Forests and 

would be susceptible to new 

disturbance from motorized access. 

Disturbance from cross-country travel and motorized access for dispersed camping would 

decrease for 62 wildlife species and 22 wildlife species on the Deschutes and Ochoco, 

respectively. 

Disturbance would remain unchanged for 16 wildlife species and 36 wildlife species on the 

Deschutes and Ochoco respectively.

Susceptibility to new disturbance would be eliminated due to elimination of cross-country 

travel and Special and General Provisions for motorized access for dispersed camping.

Range Management and Livestock Grazing

Potential for damage to range 

improvements and forage 

Motorized access within grazing 

allotments can result in damage to 

range improvements and forage 

vegetation. 

The potential for damage to range improvements would be reduced and grazing 

operations could be improved directly by increasing forage quantity and quality and 

indirectly by reducing the potential for the spread and establishment of invasive plant 

species by cross-country travel.

Fire Risk

Potential changes in the 

location of unplanned humancaused ignitions associated 

with motorized access and

proximity of those ignitions to 

suppression forces. 

Unplanned human-caused ignitions 

as a result of motorized access 

would likely increase with urban 

growth and increasing recreation 

uses. 

Unauthorized routes would continue 

to be created and used and thus 

have potential for use by 

suppression forces or as fire/fuel 

breaks, if an ignition were to occur 

Total number of unplanned human-caused ignitions associated with motorized access that 

could be indirectly affected by either alternative would likely remain the same as 

Alternative 1, but would tend to be shifted to areas where motorized use would be 

allowed. 

Existing unauthorized routes would likely persist for 10 years or more absent any 

rehabilitation efforts before they would be naturally revegetated and the potential for use 

by suppression forces or as fire/fuel breaks would be eliminated. 

Since no system roads that are currently open to public use, and do not have an existing 

NEPA decision to close them, would be closed as a result of this decision, access to 

ignitions by suppression resources would not be affected.

Air Quality

Changes in net motorized use 

Change in location of 

motorized use

No measurable effects outside of 

those projected from increase in use 

with time.

No measurable net effects outside of those projected from increase in use with time. 

Fugitive dust and emissions resulting from vehicle travel will tend to be localized within 

areas where motorized use would be allowed. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 59

Issue and Indicator Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Heritage Resources

Acres open to motorized 

access 

Cultural resources are fragile and 

non-renewable. 

They would continue to be 

vulnerable and susceptible to new 

disturbance from motorized access 

across both Forests. 

Susceptibility to new disturbance from cross-country travel would be eliminated.

Susceptibility of cultural resources to new 

disturbances from motorized access for 

dispersed camping would be reduced from 

Alternative 1 due primarily to Special 

Provisions for motorized access for dispersed 

camping. 

Susceptibility of cultural resources to new 

disturbances from motorized access for 

dispersed camping would be further 

reduced from Alternative 1 due to Special 

Provisions for motorized access for 

dispersed camping.

Scenery

Effects of motorized access 

within scenic view corridors

Foreground and middleground views 

have been and would continue to be 

altered by cross-country travel such 

as on buttes and cinder cones, and 

by motorized access for dispersed 

camping within scenic road corridors

Areas that are open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping under General 

Provisions would be most likely to continue 

to alter foreground viewsheds of any of the 

alternatives because of the potential 

concentrations of use within 300 feet of 

scenic road corridors. Areas adjacent to 

scenic corridors that allow for motorized 

access for dispersed camping

Alternative 3 would have the most beneficial 

effects on foreground viewsheds of the 

alternatives because of limiting motorized 

access for dispersed camping to existing, 

designated, or defined sites only. This would 

limit impacts to where they currently exist 

and reduce the potential for new routes and 

areas to be developed

Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 61

Chapter 3. Affected Environment and Environmental 

Consequences

This chapter summarizes the physical, biological, social, and economic environments of the project area 

and the effects of implementing each alternative on that environment. It also presents the scientific and 

analytical basis for the comparison of alternatives presented in the alternatives chapter. Following a brief 

summary of some of the key assumptions and data sources upon which the analysis in this chapter is 

based, a description of the environmental consequences for each affected resource is presented. Each 

section of this chapter will provide an executive summary of the analysis and major conclusions for that 

resource or environmental component and a description of the relevant affected environment and/or 

existing conditions that provide the basis for evaluating the environmental consequence of implementing 

the alternatives considered in detail. This part of the chapter is concluded with an analysis of the 

cumulative effects associated with implementing Alternatives 2 or 3. The chapter ends with a series of 

brief disclosures as required by federal law or Forest Service policy or regulation.

Analysis Assumptions

Predicting effects on or from changes in recreational uses is an uncertain science, since it relies in great 

part upon user preferences and choices. It is not known nor is there data to predict whether the overall 

amount of OHV use, either locally, regionally, or nationally would be reduced as a result of changes in 

conditions of cross-country travel (from people being displaced or discontinuing use of an OHV) or if 

current use would be concentrated into the smaller areas as a result of changed conditions of use. It is also 

uncertain how fuel prices could affect this use into the future. If the overall use is reduced, the magnitude 

of the reduction is not known nor is it known where these reductions might occur. 

Attempting to quantify how changes in the conditions of motor vehicle uses may affect natural resources 

is also inherently unpredictable. Therefore, several key common assumptions and data sets were used to 

guide and frame the analysis of environmental consequences. These are briefly described below. 

Additional relevant resource-specific assumptions, data, and/or methodology used for the analysis may be 

included or referenced under appropriate resource analyses. Management direction related to resources 

analyzed in this FEIS is incorporated by reference and included in Appendix B. 

General Assumptions

The acreage open to cross-country travel and motorized access for dispersed camping was used as a 

relative indicator for potential impacts from forest users that could affect all natural resources and 

habitats. 

Recreational Uses

Overall visitation to the Forest will generally increase in the long run as the population of the Central 

Oregon area grows. According to the Economic Development for Central Oregon, based on population 

trends from 1990 – 2008, population in the tri-county area is projected to increase approximately 33 

percent over the next decade (Portland State University Center for Population Research; U.S. Census 

Bureau; estimates are for July of each year). Because of this, there could be:

• More frequent use of dispersed campsites

• Potential for expansion of the dispersed campsite size 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

62 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

• Increased demand for OHV riding (Cordell, Betz, Green and Mou 2008; Bergerson and Loughlan

2005) 

• Increased use of designated routes

• Increased presence of members of the public on any given area of ground where motorized travel 

is authorized

In the short term, higher gasoline prices, negative consumer confidence, and tight credit markets may 

have a modest downward pressure on all Forest visitations and OHV recreation (Albright 2008). As 

gasoline prices rose sharply during the past two years, Forest developed campground occupancy has 

declined somewhat and in some cases has stayed level. Recreation in the Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forests may look like an economically attractive alternative for visitors in the market zone compared to 

longer trips involving airline travel. Rather than abandon the sport altogether, OHV enthusiasts are 

predicted to recreate closer to home. For Central Oregon residents, the Deschutes and/or Ochoco National 

Forest and Crooked River National Grassland are substantially closer to home than Portland, the 

Willamette Valley, or the coastal dunes. Less than half of OHV survey respondents in 2005 said that "lack 

of money" was an important reason for not participating in their motorized activities more than they do 

(Bergerson and Loughlan 2005). A survey done today would likely reveal a higher percentage affected by 

financial concerns.

Designated Routes

There are no proposals in this DEIS to designate any new roads or trails that are not currently a 

designated National Forest system road, trail or area. As such, it is assumed that there will be no 

additional adverse effects to resources (wildlife, vegetation, fisheries, soil, range, etc.) associated with 

roads as a result of implementation of Alternatives 2 and 3.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Summaries and reliable comprehensive inventory data about exact numbers, locations, size and condition 

of dispersed sites across the two Forests is not currently available. Therefore, the following assumptions 

about the locations, size, use, and recovery rates guided the analysis of effects.

The number of dispersed sites on the Ochoco National Forest in particular increased since the Forest Plan 

(ca. 1990) inventories were collected, a trend which is supported by indirect correlations of increased 

recreation use associated with population growth rates of the Tri-County area (Deschutes, Crook and 

Jefferson counties). Data on the Deschutes National Forest is more recent and has been updated into the 

GIS data base, but is not comprehensive. Recreation use trends and projected population trends were 

combined to develop an estimate of about a 23 percent increase in population to help frame possible 

increases in motorized access for dispersed camping. 

Motorized access for dispersed camping usually occurs most frequently near local attractions, especially 

water sources such as rivers, lakes and meadows, or in other areas associated with specific recreational 

activities such as hunting or motorized or non-motorized trail access, scenic view or other special settings. 

Field observations by Forest Service recreation specialists have found that most people that use motorized 

access for dispersed camping will also use:
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 63

• An existing dispersed site rather than create a new one if the existing site is in a desirable area and is 

not occupied. New sites are more likely to be created when existing sites in desirable areas are 

already occupied.

• What appears to be an already existing route (even if not a signed designated route) to a dispersed site 

rather than create a new one; and are more likely to create new unauthorized routes only if needed to 

access a new site or if the existing unauthorized route is impassable.

Limited data on inventoried dispersed sites is available in the geospatial data bases for the two Forests. 

The data that has been gathered and input into the system has had varying quality assurances and controls 

and occurred over a long span of time during which technology has changed. Therefore, all known 

(inventoried) dispersed sites identified in the geospatial data bases (GIS):

• Within 100 feet of a water body are assumed for analysis purposes to be immediately proximate 

to the edge of the water body. 

o Under current conditions (Alternative 1), motorized access for dispersed camping could 

also be immediately proximate to the edge of the water body and include unregulated 

crossings

o Alternatives 2 and 3 would limit all motorized access for dispersed camping to no closer 

than 30 feet from the edge of water bodies and would not allow for unregulated crossings

• Are assumed, on average, to extend about 100 feet along the bank of the water body 

o Under current conditions for motorized access for dispersed camping (Alternative 1), 50 

percent of the site along the bank would be affected by motorized access (50 lineal feet of 

bank)

o In Alternatives 2 and 3, changed conditions for motorized access for dispersed camping 

would reduce that amount to about 25 lineal feet of bank. This assumes that reduced 

vehicular impacts directly adjacent to banks will allow for some ground cover vegetation 

to reestablish but that access to the water body by foot traffic will continue to occur on 

some portion of the bank. 

Under current conditions (Alternative 1) for motorized access for dispersed camping, it is assumed that 

there is an area of vehicular impact within a dispersed campsite of approximately 0.17 acres (100 feet x 

75 feet). 

Under changed conditions for motorized access for dispersed camping in Alternatives 2 and 3 adjacent to 

a water body, the area of vehicular impact would be expected to result in a slightly smaller area of 

vehicular impact (0.11 acres and 100 feet x 50 feet) farther away from the edge of the water body. Some 

possible expansion of areas of vehicular impact away from the water body was considered.

Some specific areas are known to have larger than “average” areas affected by motorized access for 

dispersed camping and associated cross-country travel, (often by OHVs). There are some specific areas 

within several subwatersheds across the two Forests identified by the interdisciplinary team that are used 

extensively for dispersed camping and are also notably affected by cross-country travel. These areas, 

where the impacts of concentrated dispersed use are readily evident over large areas, and generally larger 

than the “average” assumptions described above for motorized access for dispersed camping, are useful to 

consider as a sample to compare areas that may be outside of the likely range of effects that an overall 

average might indicate. Table 7 shows the total acres of these areas for each alternative, based on the 

assumptions of recovery rates. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

64 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

The affected areas to be used for the purpose of a relative comparison of alternatives in this analysis were 

based on professional observation and assessment of sites by Forest Service recreation specialists, 

hydrologists, and fisheries and wildlife biologists. 

These assumptions include a premise that improvement will occur over a portion of the area due to the 

prohibition on cross-country travel and the changed conditions for motorized access for dispersed 

camping, but that sites would continue to be affected by motorized access for dispersed camping within 

300 feet of an open designated route as well as the actual dispersed camping activities themselves.

Table 7. Larger affected areas by motorized access for dispersed camping and motorized access on designated 

routes for Alternatives 1-3 

Forest / Area

Alternative 1 - Acres 

currently estimated to be

affected by cross-country 

travel and motorized 

access for dispersed 

camping 

Alternatives 2 and 3 -

Acres estimated to be 

affected by motorized 

access for dispersed 

camping and crosscountry travel

Rationale for Reduction

Deschutes 

Crane Prairie Reservoir 60 30 50% of affected area is from 

cross-country travel

Wickiup Reservoir 910 450

assume that 50% of 

impacted area is from cross 

country travel

Meadow Lakes 20 10

10 acres – combination of 

user created trails to be 

closed and moving of 

motorized access for 

dispersed sites back from 

water’s edge

Metolius/Jack/Canyon 

Creeks 9 3 decrease in cross country travel

Ochoco and Grassland

Whychus Creek Crossing 

area 20 4 majority of the impact is from cross country travel

McKay Creek 9,000 200

area closure for cross 

country travel and only 

designated sites for 

dispersed camping.

Natural Resource Recovery Rates

Eliminating cross-country travel and establishing new conditions for motorized access for dispersed 

camping does not equate to instant or full restoration. Vegetative recovery rates vary by site. For the 

purposes of this analysis, the following growth rates provide a relatively conservative estimate of the 

reestablishment of vegetative cover on these denuded sites (i.e., unauthorized routes):

• 0-5 years – increase of 0-10 percent vegetative cover on sites or in areas that are no longer 

accessed via motorized vehicle

• 5-10 years – 10-25 percent vegetative cover on these sites

• >10 years – up to 30 percent vegetative cover on these sites.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 65

• Soil profile recovery will not occur quickly without active restoration of these sites and will be 

similar to those rates listed under vegetation, with about 30 percent of the soil profile recovering after 

10 years. 

• Riparian sites would not have full recovery due to continued foot traffic use, while those areas that 

have impacts from cross-country travel would see more recovery due to their significant decrease in 

use from both motorized vehicles and foot traffic. 

Data Sources 

GIS and ArcMap

A geographic information system (GIS) integrates hardware, software, and data for capturing, managing, 

analyzing, and displaying all forms of geographically referenced information. The information can be 

related to visual data (maps), tabular data (tables, spreadsheets, or data bases) and used to run models 

(create new data set from existing data based on criteria or specific conditions). ArcMap is a component 

of the ArcGIS program which was developed by Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI). This 

program was used for the processing and presentation of GIS data. Generally, to analyze effects of crosscountry travel and motorized access for dispersed camping, spatial depictions (and related tabular data 

from attribute database tables) of resources were overlaid onto Forest lands for the different designations 

under each alternative. Information on the existing conditions and effects of each of the alternatives 

analyzed in detail for motorized access were based on the Deschutes and Ochoco Forest Plan 

Management Area layers and the Travel and Access Maps for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest 

from 1992-1996 (included updates for the Deschutes from 2000). 

Forest-level spatial data queried and processed using ArcMap include, but are not limited to, the 

following: 

• Motorized access for dispersed camping and cross-country travel under the existing condition and 

Alternatives 2 and 3

• Travel routes (including from the Deschutes and Ochoco Travel Management Maps from ca 1996 – 

2000) 

• Forest Plan Management Areas

• Public Use Restrictions ( Forest Plan, Regulatory Orders)

• Dispersed campsites 

• Historical vegetation treatments

• Point and polygon fire history records

• Plant association groups (PAGs) and special habitats

Often Forest-level spatial data is derived from resource specific databases and models. These databases 

include, but are not limited to:

• National Resource Information System (NRIS) – NRIS contains information related to invasive 

plants, threatened and endangered (TES) species, and other rare or uncommon plants 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

66 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

• Forest Activity Tracking System (FACTS) – FACTS is activity tracking system for all levels of the 

Forest Service

• Viable Ecosystems Model (Viable) – Viable determines habitat for the various species 

• Planning, Appeals, and Litigation System (PALS) – The PALS database is a system used to track 

process-related planning and decision information

• Schedule of Proposed Action (SOPA) – The SOPA is a quarterly report used by local units of the 

Forest Service to provide notice of projects being considered at the local level, and to track their 

progress through the environmental analysis steps

• National Interagency Fire Management Integrated Database (NIFMID)- NIFMID contains 

information related to historical point fire records such as fire location, cause, size, costs, etc. 

• National Roads and Trails Data Base (INFRA) – contains continually updated information on the 

objective and operational maintenance levels and seasons of use of the designated National Forest 

System of roads and trails. 

Recreation 

Executive Summary

This section summarizes the analysis of the effects from implementing actions proposed in this EIS 

primarily, but not exclusively, on recreational motorized access, including motorized access on designated 

roads and trails for different vehicle classes, cross-country travel, motorized access for dispersed 

camping, motorized access for hunting and gathering, and the effects of recreational motorized access on 

non-motorized recreation use.

In Alternative 1, there would be no change to current motorized uses. Not prohibiting cross-country travel 

would likely result in a continued increase in the creation and use of unauthorized user-created routes. 

Cross-country travel may continue to be incrementally affected with site-specific closures because of 

resource damage or user conflicts, but would continue mostly as at present. Alternative 1 maintains the 

highest potential level of unregulated motorized cross-country travel, and would have the greatest 

potential for conflict between motorized and non-motorized users. 

Alternative 1 would have the highest potential for uncertainty and confusion among forest visitors about 

where or when motorized access is or is not allowed, or for what type of vehicle, and how or where to 

find that information. Conflicts between motorized and non-motorized users would continue and escalate 

given the likelyhood of increased visitor use of both type of users over time.

With Alternative 1 there would continue to be impacts to non-motorized users from noise, dust, and 

proximity to motorized uses which would be expected to increase with population growth and higher 

forest visitation. Non-motorized trails that are located within areas open to cross-country travel would 

continue to receive increasing motorized use as the trail character and dimensions change and become 

more indistinguishable from a motorized trail.

Under Alternative 1, as population increases, over time, new unauthorized motorized routes would likely 

be created to either existing or new campsites to accommodate demand, especially in prime areas (near 

streams, lakes, or other attractive features). With Alternatives 2 and 3, effects to motorized use would 

include a loss of access by non-highway-legal vehicles to some roads that would be open only to 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 67

highway-legal vehicles. The roads that would be open to non-highway-legal vehicles could be fragmented 

by roads that are open only to highway-legal vehicles. This would break connectivity among roads to 

destination areas. With increasing population and commensurate increase in visitor use, it is expected 

there could be increased use on designated roads and trails with more interaction and potential conflicts 

among motorized vehicles as well

The proposed actions common to both Alternatives 2 and 3 would prohibit cross-country travel on 

approximately 1,612,937 acres on the Deschutes and 723,855 acres on the Ochoco National Forest and 

Grassland which would change the users’ ability to access the forest as they have in the past. Restricting 

access to designated roads and trails would primarily affect people who prefer a more primitive off-road 

recreation experience than designated roads and trails offer (see social and economic analysis section). 

User discretion to travel off designated routes to make connections to roads open to non-highway-legal

vehicles would be lost. Neither of the action alternatives provide for cross-country travel for hunting and 

gathering purposes. This would have the highest impact on those who may depend more upon a motor 

vehicle for access to pursue these activities.

Under Alternatives 2 and 3, restricting motorized access for dispersed camping under the General 

Provisions; or to designated, defined, or existing sites under the Special Provisions would mostly affect 

people using recreation vehicles such as trailers, campers, toy haulers, motor homes, etc. These users 

would not be able to access sites beyond 300 feet off designated routes, unlike tent campers, who would 

have the option to walk to their desired site. It is also expected that some people may not be able to access 

their favorite spot because it is already occupied. This would displace some visitors to other areas. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would result in a substantial increase in the areas where non-motorized recreation 

users could expect little or no impact from motorized users. The proposed actions common to both 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would prohibit cross-country travel on 100 percent of the acreage currently open to 

it. There should be a beneficial effect for non-motorized users on the miles of non-motorized trail located 

within areas currently open to cross-country travel because there would be reduced motorized access to 

these trail systems, and a reduction in the potential for inadvertent use of these non-motorized trails by 

motor vehicles as they become undistinguishable from motorized trails.

Affected Environment

Recreation Opportunities

Recreation opportunities on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests are a local and regional resource. 

The diversity of Cascade and Blue mountain settings, defined by terrain, scenic beauty, and types of 

access available offer outstanding recreation opportunities to uses of these National Forest System lands. 

The diverse types of recreation that occur include hunting, fishing, hiking, dispersed and developed 

camping, picnicking, horseback riding, mountain bike riding, ATV and motorcycle riding, jeep and 4WD 

touring, rafting, skiing, among many others (USDA Forest Service, 1989a, 1989b,1990). 

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) 

The recreation opportunity spectrum (ROS) is a classification system in which factors affecting recreation 

opportunities, such as access, naturalness, presence of other people, and management controls, are used to 

describe discrete recreation settings, and organize them along a continuum, or spectrum, from urban to 

primitive. Each ROS setting is described in terms of specific combinations of activities, facilities and 

experience opportunities. ROS settings are primarily affected by an area's size, its distance from a road(s) 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

68 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

and the likelihood of users encountering other users. The seven ROS settings, from the most primitive to 

the most developed are: primitive; semi-primitive non-motorized; semi-primitive motorized; roaded 

natural; roaded modified; rural; urban. Some wilderness plans also assign a set of ROS setting 

classifications specific to wilderness areas including pristine; primitive, semi-primitive, and transition.,

Motorized use within wilderness areas is prohibited and would not be affected by any decisions under this 

analysis so will not be defined further in this document. A detailed description of each ROS classification 

is included in Appendix B-1. 

The ROS provides a framework for describing the types of outdoor recreation and experiences that the 

public can expect at any given location in the Forest. The ROS also provides a context and criteria for 

describing and measuring the recreation effects from projects and activities. 

Table 8 summarizes the acres of each ROS class on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. 

Table 8. Deschutes and Ochoco ROS classes 

Deschutes Recreation Opportunity Spectrum # Acres

Primitive (Wilderness) 13,276

Pristine (Wilderness) 147,141

Semi-Primitive (Wilderness) 21,832

Transition (Wilderness) 136

SP – Semi-Primitive (non-motorized) 32,652

SPM – Semi-Primitive Motorized 1,474

SPM – Semi-Primitive Motorized (winter only) 151,642

R - Rural 1,232

RN – Roaded Natural 387,542

RNM - Roaded Modified 823,823

Ochoco Recreation Opportunity Spectrum # Acres

RM - Roaded Modified 575,690

RN – Roaded Natural 52,255

SPM – Semi-Primitive Motorized 1,198

SPNM – Semi-Primitive (non-motorized) 94,145

As can be seen in the above table, the project area is primarily classified with an ROS of roaded natural

and roaded modified for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. These settings indicate a higher 

level of development mostly due to the large number of designated roads. Only semi-primitive nonmotorized is affected by the proposed actions from this decision. A detailed description of the semiprimitive non-motorized setting follows below. 

Semi-primitive Nonmotorized

The area is characterized by a predominantly natural or natural-appearing environment of moderate to 

large size. Interaction between users is low, but there is often evidence of others users. The area is 

managed in such a way that minimum on-site controls and restrictions may be present, but would be 

subtle. Motorized recreation use is not permitted, but local roads used for other resource management 

activities may be present on a limited basis. Use of such roads is restricted to minimize impacts on 

recreational experience opportunities.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 69

Recreation Niche

The niche is, in part, determined by public expectations (demand) and by the ecological capabilities of the 

land. In 2005 and 2006, each forest developed a recreation niche statement. Public participants in this 

process described and mapped their preferred recreation activities and where they recreate. This "sense of 

place" map product was translated into a narrative about the relative importance of the forest for various 

recreation opportunities, experiences and benefits, and was used to develop the recreation niche 

statement. For more details on the recreation niche see Appendix B-1. 

Developed Recreation Sites 

The Deschutes National Forest manages 319 developed recreation sites: 101 campgrounds; 26 picnic 

(day-use) sites; 93 trailheads; two rental cabins; 11 horse camps; 17 interpretive/info sites; 14 snoparks; 

two visitor centers and other minor sites. The only developed sites that currently allow OHVs are China 

Hat Campground, Edison and East Ft. Rock OHV Staging areas and Trailheads. 

The Ochoco National Forest manages 71 developed recreation sites including 30 campgrounds; seven 

picnic (day-use) sites; 26 trailheads; one rental cabin; three horse camps; and four snoparks (and other 

minor sites). 

Motorized Access off Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

On the Deschutes, cross-country travel is prohibited for all vehicles on 198,908 acres and closed to OHV 

use in 59,412 acres of the Forest. On the Ochoco, motorized travel is prohibited for all vehicles on 87,990 

acres of the Forest and cross-country travel is prohibited on 204,081 acres. These include designated 

wilderness areas, wild and scenic river corridors, certain municipal watersheds, specific land use 

allocations and other sensitive areas. Since OHVs are allowed in areas of the forest not specifically closed 

to such use, 625,430 acres on the Deschutes and 431,784 acres on the Ochoco are theoretically available 

either year round or seasonally for motorized recreation. On both forests, an indeterminate number of 

acres are inaccessible because of excessive slope, or other physical barriers (such as rock outcrops, forest 

vegetation, rivers and streams). 

Motorized Access on Designated Routes

Oregon State law allows OHVs to travel on one-lane gravel and native-surface roads (Oregon 2007). 

There are areas of the Forests where the Land and Resource Management Plans, as amended, do not 

specifically prohibit cross-country travel by recreational vehicles. On the Deschutes, approximately 5,362 

miles of road are available for OHV use (all ATV classes). In addition, there are 343 miles of trail open to 

motorized travel for ATVs and motorcycles including 21 miles open to class II 4WD jeep type vehicles. 

There are no single track trail opportunities for class III motorcycles. On the Ochoco, approximately 

1,388 miles of road are available for OHV use (all ATV classes). An additional 1,648 miles of road are 

open only to highway licensed vehicles. Certain classes of ATVs (class I and class III) are also permitted 

on roughly 26 miles of forest trails (See Table 9 for a complete list of the trail systems on the two Forests 

and BLM). There are no designated single track trail opportunities for class III motorcycles, or class II 

4WD jeep type vehicles. 

Although the extensive road system and motorized trails on both forests provide motorized access on 

designated routes for many types of vehicles; roads and designated trails do not always provide the 

recreational experience that many people look for with their off-highway vehicles. The road and/or trail 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

70 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

system also does not always provide the connectivity to desired destinations such as favorite campsites, 

people’s homes, or community services. There are over 6,132 miles of road, of which 5,362 miles are 

open to both highway-legal and non-highway-legal vehicles. Such an extensive network of roads and 

trails provides users with a tremendous variety of options to access and view the forest. Most of the land 

base on both forests and grassland is accessible within a short distance from a designated road or trail. 

Approximately 88 percent of the Deschutes National Forest and 83 percent of the Ochoco National Forest 

(outside of wilderness areas) is accessible within 1⁄2 mile from an open road (see Table 12).

Deschutes National Forest Designated OHV Trail Systems

The East Fort Rock OHV trail system lies on the east side of the Bend/Fort Rock Ranger District on the 

Deschutes National Forest. East Fort Rock provides 318 miles of trail for casual and competitive use 

covering about 110,000 acres and ranging in elevation from 4,400 to 6,400 feet. Trails are well signed and 

mapped and provide a full range of experience levels, from easiest to most difficult. There are 4 staging 

areas, (2510, 25, Camp II and South Lava) one campground/staging area (China Hat) and four designated 

play areas (Ground Hog Rock Crawl, Sabol Butte, South Cinder Cone and Ice Rock Quarry). Ground Hog 

Rock Crawl is specifically designed for class II jeep type vehicles.

The trail system is designed for class I and class III ATVs which are quads or three-wheelers and 

motorcycles less than 50 inches in width. Off-highway vehicles are allowed on designated routes and 

areas only. Non-street legal motorcycles and ATVs are permitted to ride roads designated as mixed use. 

The trail system is open all year, however hot, dusty conditions normally inhibit riding from mid-July 

through September and cold, snowy conditions inhibit riding from mid-December through March. About 

half of East Fort Rock is within the Fox Butte Green Dot Area which restricts access to designated roads 

during the general deer hunting season. This is roughly a two-week period from late September to midOctober, and any roads or trails within the Green Dot Area are subject to Green Dot restrictions. 

The Edison Butte Trail System, about 25 miles long, is located on the slopes of Kwolh Butte and 

Sheridan Mountain, west of Bend. Edison Butte is open to OHV use from April 1 through November 30. 

The recommended riding season is late June to October because of the high elevation and tendency of 

snow to cover the trail into the spring and summer months. Twenty-five miles of the trail system are open 

to class I – quads and class III – motorcycles, and 21 miles are open to class II vehicles under 80 inches 

wide.

The trail system goes through ponderosa pine and manzanita forest in the lower elevations, near the 

Edison Sno-Park, and goes up into stands of hemlock trees near Kwolh Butte and Sheridan Mountain. The 

volcanic terrain can be challenging because there are many loose rocks and lava ridges to go over. As a 

result, the trails are classified as more difficult. Two shelters are situated along the trail, the Sheridan 

Mountain and the Kwolh Butte shelters, which offer impressive views of the Central Oregon Cascade 

Mountains. 

The staging area for this trail system is at the Edison Sno-park. An information board, maps and a vault 

toilet are available on site.

Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland Designated OHV Trail 

Systems 

The Green Mountain trail is northeast of Prineville in the Ochoco National Forest. The 8.5-mile trail 

designed for class I and class III ATVs winds along open ridge tops, which offer spectacular views, and 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 71

passes through mixed conifer and ponderosa pine stands. This trail offers a wide range of scenic views 

and riding experiences. The elevation ranges from 4,500-5,400 feet. The trail is open year round unless 

closed due to snow, high fire danger or wet soil conditions.

Henderson Flat OHV trail system is part of the Crooked River National Grassland and is characterized 

by open juniper vegetation spread over steep to rolling hills and interspersed with dramatically beautiful 

red rimrock breaks. The trails overlook the Deschutes Basin with spectacular views of the Cascade 

Range. The system provides 18 miles of casual OHV use covering 1480 acres and ranging in elevation 

from 3,000 to 3,400 feet.

The trail system is designed for class I and class III ATVs which are allowed on designated routes and 

areas only. Non-street legal motorcycles and ATVs must stay on designated trails; they may not ride on 

roads. 

The trail system is open from April 1 through November 30. The best riding takes advantage of the cooler, 

moister periods of early spring and late fall. Hot, dry conditions normally inhibit riding from mid-July 

through September. In extreme fire conditions, the trails may be closed to public use. Individual trails 

may also be temporarily closed for maintenance or reconstruction, or to provide resource protection.

Prineville Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Designated OHV Trail Systems

Millican Valley Trail Systems - North Millican lies north of Highway 20, about 24 miles east of Bend 

and is located on the Prineville District of the Bureau of Land Management. The 102 miles of trails are 

well signed and provide a full range of difficulty from easiest to most difficult. Three trailheads/staging 

areas provide access to the trails. The terrain is typical of the high desert, with rolling hills covered with 

sagebrush and juniper trees. The soils are sandy with scattered rock outcrops. The best riding is in the 

spring or fall when there is moisture. Elevation in the North Millican valley ranges from 3,300-4,200 feet.

The trails system provides opportunities for class I, class II and class III ATVs. Of the 102 miles of trails, 

24 miles of designated trail are open on mixed use roads to all three classes of ATVs, including class II 

4WD jeeps, Off-highway vehicles are allowed on designated routes and areas only. Non-highway-legal 

motorcycles and ATVs are only permitted on mixed use roads. All other roads are closed. 

North Millican Valley OHV Area is part of the deer winter range and therefore is closed from December 

1 through April 30. During the summer, hot, dry conditions may close the area due to extreme fire 

conditions. 

The Millican Plateau is located on the Prineville District of the BLM. The plateau provides a variety of 

desert riding experiences from easiest to more difficult. There are 111 miles of trails for class I and III 

OHVs, of which 37 miles are also open to class II 4WD jeep type vehicles on mixed use roads. There are 

three staging areas with portable toilets and information kiosks providing maps and information for riders. 

Non-highway-legal vehicles are only permitted on mixed use roads. The soils are mostly sand with rock 

outcrops and the vegetation is a mixture of sagebrush and juniper. The Millican Plateau is open for riding 

year round. During the summer, hot, dry, dusty conditions may inhibit riding. The best riding season is 

during the winter when there is good ground moisture. There are only a couple of weeks during the winter

when the trails are not rideable due to snow or frost.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

72 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 9. Central Oregon designated OHV areas

Name Managing 

Agency Location ATV Classes Season Description Setting

East Fort 

Rock

Deschutes 

National 

Forest

21 miles east of 

Bend on US 20

I and III, 

Class II on 

Mixed use 

Roads Only

All year, 

some trails 

affected by 

Green Dot 

Closure in 

October

318 miles of easy to 

most difficult trails

Soils range from sandy 

with rock outcrops and 

pumice with desert to 

forest type vegetation

Millican 

Plateau

Prineville 

BLM

20 miles NE of 

Bend on 

George Millican 

Road

I and III, 

Class II on 

Mixed use 

Roads Only

All Year

111 miles of easiest 

to more difficult trails; 

37 miles open to 

Class II

Mostly sandy soils with 

rock outcrops. Vegetation 

is a mixture of juniper and

sagebrush

North 

Millican

Prineville 

BLM

24 miles E of 

Bend off Hwy 

20

I and III, 

Class II on 

Mixed use 

Roads Only 

Closed Dec 

1 through 

April 30

102 miles of easiest 

to most difficult trails; 

24 miles open to 

Class II

Mostly sandy soils with 

rock outcrops. Vegetation 

is a mixture of juniper and

sagebrush

South 

Millican

Prineville 

BLM

22 miles E of 

Bend off Hwy 

20

I and III, 

Class II on 

Mixed use 

Roads Only 

Closed Dec 

1 through 

April 30

43 miles of easiest to 

more difficult trails; 

11 miles open to 

Class II

Mostly sandy soils with 

rock outcrops. Vegetation 

is a mixture of scattered 

juniper and sagebrush

Henderson 

Flat

Crooked 

River 

National 

Grassland

13 Miles S of 

Madras I and III

Closed Dec 

1 through 

March 31

18 miles easiest to 

more difficult trails, 

not open to Class II

open juniper vegetation 

spread over steep to 

rolling hills and 

interspersed with red 

rimrock breaks

Edison 

Butte

Deschutes 

National 

Forest

24 miles SW of 

Bend I, II and III

Closed Dec 

1 through 

March 31

25 miles of more to 

most difficult trails. 

21 miles are open to 

Class II 4WD jeep 

type vehicles 

Restricted to vehicles 

under 80 inches

loose rocks and lava 

ridges, vegetation ranges 

from ponderosa pine and 

Manzanita to stands of 

hemlock trees

Green 

Mountain

Ochoco 

National 

Forest

18 miles N of 

Prineville I and III

All year –

closed by 

snow 

annually

8.5 miles of more 

difficult trail

Open ridge tops, 

spectacular views, old 

growth ponderosa pine 

stands.

Rosland 

Pit Play 

Area

Prineville 

BLM

26 miles S of 

Bend at 

Wickiup Jct

I and III All year

3.5 miles of trails, a 

learners' loop, a 

beginner play area 

and an advanced 

play area

Large mounds of sandy 

soil and flat areas 

surrounded by lodge pole 

pine forested area.

ODOT Pit 

Play area

Prineville 

BLM

27 Miles E of 

Bend on Hwy 

20

I and III All Year

Open play area 

provides challenges 

for all levels of 

experience

Gravel mounds and flat 

areas adjacent to North 

Millican Trail System

Santiam 

Pass 

Recreation 

Area

Willamette 

National 

Forest

20 miles W. of 

Sisters on Hwy 

26

I/II/III Summer/Fall

15 miles of trail,

learners loop, and 

beginners play area

Forested high cascades, 

access to Big Lake and 

Santiam Wagon Rd.

South Millican lies south of Highway 20 about 22 miles east of Bend on the Prineville District of the 

BLM. It provides 43 miles of trails ranging in difficulty from easiest to more difficult. South Millican is 

an ancient lake bed so the terrain is flat to rolling hills with sagebrush, grasses and widely scattered 

juniper trees for vegetation. The soils are very sandy with rock outcrops and the best riding is in the fall 

when there is moisture. Elevation ranges from 4,200-4,500 feet. Three trailheads provide parking and 

staging areas. All trails are well signed and mapped.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 73

The trail system provides opportunities for class I, class II, and class III ATVs. About 32 miles of trails 

are specifically designed for class I and class III ATVs the remaining 11 miles are open to class I, class II, 

and class III ATVs on mixed use roads. Off-highway vehicles are allowed on designated routes and areas 

only. Non-highway-legal vehicles are only permitted on mixed use roads. South Millican Valley is open 

August 1 through November 30. It is closed the rest of the year to protect sage grouse. During the late 

summer months, it may also close due to extreme fire conditions. Hot dusty conditions may inhibit riding 

in the late summer as well.

The Millican/ODOT Pit is located east of Millican on Highway 20 in an Oregon Department of 

Transportation gravel pit. The play area is designed for class I and class III ATVs and provides challenges 

for riders at all levels of experience. There is ample parking space for vehicles towing trailers and 

camping. A kiosk keeps riders informed of regulations and closures as well as providing maps of nearby 

OHV trail systems. A chemical toilet is on site. The site also serves as a staging area for access to the 

North Millican and Millican Plateau OHV Trail Systems. The Millican/ODOT Pit is open all year but dry, 

dusty conditions may inhibit use during the late summer months. Likewise, snow in the winter may 

discourage winter riding.

LaPine Area Designated OHV Trail System - The Rosland Play Area is designed for class I and class 

III ATVs and is located just north of LaPine at Wickiup Junction. The area consists of 3.5 miles of loop 

trails on a wooded flat, a learners' loop, a beginner play area and an advanced play area. The play area is 

an excellent spot for young riders to become familiar with their OHVs in the open beginner play area and 

on the short loop trails. Only spotters and riders are allowed in the play areas so several picnic tables are 

placed at shaded locations to provide easy observation. There is lots of parking for both pits and easy 

access for vehicles towing trailers. Two information kiosks keep visitors posted of closures and 

regulations and also supply visitors with maps. There is a toilet located between the staging areas. The 

play area is open year round. However, dust and heat may discourage riders from mid-July to September 

while cold and snow may inhibit them in the winter.

Other OHV Areas in Oregon 

There are more than 40 designated OHV sites and areas in Oregon managed by several public land 

management agencies. Given the willingness of OHV users to drive substantial distances to recreate 

(Bergerson and Loughlan 2005), many of those who use the existing routes in the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests for OHV recreation probably also use these other areas either instead of or in addition to 

forest routes. National visitor use monitoring (English, Kocis and Hales 2004) reported substitute choices 

made by OHV users if they were unable to use National Forest System lands. About 64 percent of 

primary OHV users in the Pacific Northwest responded that they would go somewhere else for the same 

activity.

Selected OHV areas in Oregon are displayed in Table 10. Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, Sand 

Lake Recreation Areas, Christmas Valley Sand Dunes and other dune areas are not listed in the table 

because they offer different recreation experiences than the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, or 

the Crooked River National Grassland.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

74 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 10. Selected OHV recreation sites and areas in Oregon

Name Managing 

Agency Location ATV Classes Season Description

Blue Mountain 

OHV Trail

WallowaWhitman National 

Forest

8 miles east of 

Unity on Hwy 26 I and III Summer and Fall 60 miles of trails

John's Peak Bureau of Land 

Management

10 miles west of 

Jacksonville in 

southern Oregon

I, II and III All year

> 14,000 acres of 

trails with varying 

difficulty

Morrow County 

Trails

Morrow County 

Public Works

20 miles east of 

Heppner I, II and III May - Oct

> 100 miles of trails, 

play areas, 4WD rock 

crawl, varying difficulty

Shotgun Creek 

OHV Area

Bureau of Land 

Management

East of 

Springfield I, II and III All year 6,000 acres of trails with varying difficulty

Tillamook OHV 

Area

Oregon Dept of 

Forestry

State Hwy 6 

between Portland 

and Tillamook

I, II and III All year > 100 miles of easy to 

most difficult trail

Upper Walla 

Walla

Umatilla National 

Forest

12 miles east of 

Milton- Freewater III Spring, Summer and Fall 40 miles of trails

Virtue Flat Bureau of Land 

Management

11 miles east of 

Baker City I, II and III All year

> 5,000 acres of trails 

with varying degrees 

of difficulty

West End 

(Sunflower)

Umatilla National 

Forest NE of John Day I and III All year 91,000 acres will all degrees of difficulty

Christmas 

Valley Lakeview BLM 80 miles SE of Bend I/II/III All Year

8000 acres of sand 

dunes with varying 

difficulty levels

Prospect OHV 

Trails

Rogue-Siskiyou 

National Forests

40 miles NE of 

Medford I/II/III Fall/Summer 213 miles of trails with varying difficulty

Huckleberry Flat 

OHV Area

Willamette 

National Forest

10 miles NE of 

Oakridge I/III Fall/Summer

McCubbins 

Gulch

Mt. Hood National 

Forest

60 miles NE of 

Portland I/III Spring/Fall/Summer

50 miles of trail of 

varying difficult in 

rolling forested terrain

Source: http://atv.prd.state.or.us/places.php

Non-Motorized Trail Systems

On the Deschutes, there are roughly 660 miles of forest system trails that are managed exclusively for 

non-motorized uses outside of designated wilderness areas (excluding snowmobile, cross-country ski and 

snowshoe trails). There is an additional 323 miles of trail within designated wilderness areas where 

motorized use is prohibited. The 351 miles of forest trails that are managed for OHV use are also open to 

non-motorized uses. Non-motorized trails that are within areas currently open to cross-country travel are 

increasingly being used by both ATVs and motorcycles. There are 194 miles of non-motorized trail 

located within areas that are currently open to cross-country travel (GIS calculation).

On the Ochoco, there are roughly 132 miles of forest system trails outside designated wilderness areas 

that are managed exclusively for non-motorized uses (excluding snowmobile and cross-country ski trails). 

The 27 miles of forest trails that are managed for OHV use are also open to non-motorized uses. In 

addition, there are 38.4 miles of wilderness trails within designated wilderness areas where motorized use 

is prohibited. Non-motorized trails that are within areas currently open to cross-country travel are 

increasingly being used by both ATVs and motorcycles. There are 46 miles of non-motorized trails 

located within areas that are currently open to cross-country travel and an additional approximately 50 

miles of equestrian trails created through horse endurance race events that have been historically used by 

equestrians that are now receiving increasing motorized use.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 75

Recreation Uses

Description of Recreation Resource

Nearly all forest visitors use motorized vehicles to get to their preferred activities and settings, whether it 

is a hiking or equestrian trailhead, a fishing spot, or a favorite campsite. For many people, their vehicle is 

just the mode of transportation used to access their recreational activity. For others, the vehicle use itself 

is the activity. 

National Visitor Use Monitoring (NVUM)

The national visitor use monitoring (NVUM) program provides reliable information about recreation

visitors to national forest system managed lands at the national, regional, and forest level. National visitor 

use monitoring information assists Congress, Forest Service leaders, and program managers in making 

sound decisions that best serve the public and protect valuable natural resources by providing science 

based, reliable information about the type, quantity, quality and location of recreation use on public lands. 

NVUM surveys were conducted on the Ochoco National Forest in 2000 and 2008 and on the Deschutes 

National Forest in 2001 and 200834. 

For the Deschutes National Forest, the 2001 NVUM documented approximately 3,109,377 recreation 

visits to the Forest each year (Kocis, English et al 2003). A description of visitor activities was compiled 

from the survey. During their visit to the Forest, the top six recreation activities of visitors were 

hiking/walking, relaxing, viewing wildlife, viewing natural features, fishing, and downhill 

ski/snowboarding. Each visitor also picked one of these activities as their primary activity for the current 

recreation visit to the Forest. The top primary activities were downhill snowboarding, fishing, 

hiking/walking, relaxing, and viewing natural features (see Table 11). The second round of NVUM 

surveys was conducted between October 1, 2007 and September 30, 2008 and documented approximately 

1,894,900 recreation visits to the Forest during that period (Kocis, English et al 2009). During their visit 

to the forest in 2007 -2008, the top five recreation activities of visitors were viewing natural features, 

hiking/walking, relaxing, viewing wildlife, and downhill skiing or snowboarding. The top primary 

activities were viewing natural features, hiking/walking, downhill skiing or snowboarding, relaxing, and 

X-C skiing/snow shoeing.

For the Ochoco National Forest, the 2000 NVUM revealed that there are approximately 568,662 

recreation visits to the Forest each year (Kocis, English et al 2001). The first round of NVUM surveys for 

the Forest were conducted between January 1, 2000 and September 30, 2000. A description of visitor 

activities was compiled from the survey. During their visit to the Forest, the top five recreation activities 

of visitors were viewing wildlife/nature, viewing scenery, primitive camping, fishing, hiking/walking. 

Each visitor also picked one of these activities as their primary activity for the current recreation visit to 

the Forest. The top primary activities were, developed camping, viewing wildlife/nature, hunting, 

horseback riding, and general relaxing (see Table 11). The second round of NVUM surveys was 

conducted between October 1, 2007 and September 30, 2008 and documented approximately 247,000 

recreation visits to the Forest during that period (Kocis, English et al 2009). During their visit to the forest 

 

34 The cited report compares two different rounds of survey data. As stated in the most recent NVUM for the Deschutes and 

Ochoco (NVUM, February 2009) "Caution should be used in interpreting comparisons of results from the two rounds of data 

collection. The difference between the two does not necessarily indicate a trend or a real change over time. Trends are usually 

based on result from at least four different points in time that control for as many other factors as possible. Several concurrent 

factors account for the differences between the results across the two rounds presented here, for both visitation estimates and visit 

characteristics. Only one of those is a trend over time". 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

76 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

in 2007 -2008, the top five recreation activities of visitors were day hiking/walking, viewing wildlife, 

viewing natural features, relaxing, and driving for pleasure and the top primary activities were, hunting, 

day hiking/walking, snowmobiling, viewing natural features, and developed camping. 

Table 11. Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest activity participation and primary activity (NVUMa) and 

national user participation (NSREa

) in comparable recreation activities

Activity % Participating

(NVUM)

% As Main Activity

(NVUM)

National 

User Participation

Deschutes Ochoco Deschutes Ochoco

%All Users 

Participation 

(NSRE)

% All OHV 

Users

(NSRE)

Backpacking 3.03 2.83 1.02 1.96 11.4 19.9

Bicycling 7.21 5.29 2.43 1.7 22.0 34.4

Cross-country Skiing 2.97 0.23 2.19 0.23 4.8 6.7

Day Hiking 38.28 19.37 10.88 3.28 35.4 47.9

Developed Camping 12.84 19.73 1.07 12.76 29.1 44.7

Downhill Skiing 22.9 0 21.88 0 9.2 14.8

Driving for Pleasure 19.6 16 0.44 1 59.1 86.3

Family Gathering 

Outdoors **e **e **e **e 76.2 84.9

Fishing 24.62 24.7 14.59 6.49 24.5+ 44.6+

Gathering Forest 

Products 3.82 8.39 0.71 0.76 32.5 52.0

Horseback Riding 0.8 18.15 0.31 14.57 8.7 16.8

Hunting 3.34 22.59 0.77 18.8 10.0+ 28.4+

Motorized Water 

Activities 8.37 0.12 0.53 0.04 28.5+ 46.9+

Nature Center Activities 9.03 1.31 0.15 0.10 61.8 69.5

Nature Study 3.78 9.86 0.14 0.03 no datab no datab

Non-motorized Water 4.53 0.08 1.4 0 11.2+c 21.4+c

OHV Use 2.47 3.35 1.06 0 19.0 100.0

Other Motorized 

Activities 0.21 0.02 0 0 no datab no datab 

Other non-motorized 4.2 0.87 0.66 0.13 no datab no datab

Picnicking 8.67 19.03**e 0.22 3.13 58.9 65.2

Primitive Camping 4.31 26.89 0.36 10.21 17.8 17.8

Relaxing 37.42 16.29 6.43 2.95 no datab no datab

Resort Use 5.33 0 0.5 0 no datab no datab

Snowmobiling 1.18 0.76 0.82 0.68 4.3 4.3

Sightseeing *

d 35.44 *d 4.98 58.5 58.5

Viewing Natural Features 39.78 58.53 11.45 14.5 66.5 66.5

Viewing Wildlife 37.09 59 1.32 14 51.4 51.4

Visiting Historic Sites 7.26 2.71 0.09 0 51.5 51.5

Walking for Pleasure *

d *d *d *d 86.2 86.2

a - NVUM data source is the first round of National Visitor Use Monitoring surveys (Kocis, English et al 2003). NSRE data source is 

1999-2007 survey information for the National Survey on Recreation and the Environment (Cordell, Betz, Green and Stephens 

2008). 

b - "No data" indicates that there was no direct cross-walk between NVUM and NSRE. 

c - "+" indicates that the activity participation rate is higher than indicated because of participation in variations of the activity that 

were reported separately. 

d - “*” indicates that activity was not shown on the 2000 activity participation list. 

e - “**” In the 2000 activity participation list picnicking and Family Gathering were lumped together as one category.

Dispersed Recreation Uses

Highly popular dispersed recreation activities include camping, fishing, hunting, (non-commercial) 

gathering forest products such as antlers, mushrooms, cones, etc., and driving forest roads for wildlife

viewing, or viewing natural scenery. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 77

Many visitors prefer a more secluded experience than what developed campgrounds and picnic areas 

offer. The many roads, meadows, creeks, ponds, and lakes found on both forests offer extensive 

opportunities for dispersed car and trailer camping and picnicking. Many sites have existed for years, and 

have been used by the same family year after year. Some of these sites are being accessed off of roads that 

have been administratively closed, but have not been physically closed on the ground, and may not be 

posted as closed, so appear to be open. 

Dispersed Camping and Day Use Picnicking 

On the Deschutes National Forest, dispersed camping and day use picnicking account for approximately 

13 percent of overall participation (2001 NVUM) (see Table 11). On the Ochoco National Forest, 

dispersed camping and day use picnicking are very popular activities and accounted for approximately 46 

percent of overall participation on the forest. Approximately 27 percent of these forest visitors 

participated in primitive (dispersed) camping as either a secondary or primary activity (see Table 11) 

(Kocis, English et al 2001). 

Cross-country travel to dispersed campsites can cause resource damage, especially in sensitive riparian

areas, if not posted closed. In the Deschutes River wild and scenic river corridor, cross-country travel is 

limited to designated sites only (designated by signing). There have been other efforts Forest wide to 

reduce resource impacts by restricting cross-country travel to dispersed campsites through use of either 

rock or bollard barriers. 

Big Game Hunting

Hunters use vehicles extensively to access campsites, scout for game, and retrieve game. The ability of 

ATVs to go nearly anywhere impacts wildlife and also the experience of hunters using nonmotorized 

methods of access, such as foot, or horses. 

On the Deschutes National Forest, big-game hunting is fairly popular during designated hunting seasons. 

The 2001 NVUM (Table 11) for the Deschutes National Forest shows that approximately 3.34 percent of 

forest visitors participated in hunting as either a secondary or primary activity. 

On the Ochoco National Forest, big-game hunting is a highly popular activity, and the Forest is a 

regionally popular destination for big-game hunting. The 2000 NVUM for the Ochoco National Forest 

showed approximately 22.6 percent of forest visitors participated in hunting as either a secondary or 

primary activity and that hunting was among the top five primary activities on the forest at 18.8 percent 

participation (see Table 11) (Kocis, English et al 2001). 

With the extensive network of roads, and the motorized trails on both Forests and Grassland, there is a 

tremendous variety of options for accessing the Forest within a short distance of an open designated road 

or motorized trail (see Table 12).

Table 12. Deschutes and Ochoco NFs National Forest System acres within 1/2 mile of open roads

Forest Forest Acres Outside of 

Wilderness

Acres within 1⁄2 Mile of 

Open Roads

% of Land Within 1⁄2 Mile 

of Open Roads

Deschutes 1,429,767 1,258,860 88%

Ochoco 688,326 572,345 83%
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

78 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

OHV Use Data / Motorized Recreation Preferences

As stated earlier in this report, NVUM reported on substitute choices made by OHV users if they had 

been unable to use National Forest System lands. About 64 percent of primary OHV users in the Pacific 

Northwest Region (R6) responded that they would have gone somewhere else for the same activity 

(English, Kocis and Hales 2004). The survey did not ask respondents to specify what locations they 

would have visited instead.

The 2004 Oregon Statewide Motorized Trail Use Survey revealed that OHV enthusiasts are willing to 

travel reasonably long distances to pursue their most frequent activity (Bergerson and Loughlan 2005). 

The median distance traveled to reach an OHV riding opportunity falls in the range of 41 and 50 miles, 

and nearly one-fifth of OHV users travel more than 100 miles. Considering only OHV opportunities on 

National Forest System lands, the median distance traveled is over 200 miles (English, Kocis and Hales 

2004). 

Off Highway Vehicle Use in Central Oregon 

National visitor use monitoring (NVUM) findings support the Deschutes National Forest niche statement 

position that the Forest was not a major provider of OHV recreation in the year surveyed (see Table 11 - 

Deschutes National Forest activity participation and primary activity (NVUM) and national user 

participation (NSRE) in comparable recreation activities, English, Kocis and Hales 2003). The first round 

of NVUM surveys for the Forest was conducted between October 1, 2001 and September 30, 2002. The 

NVUM survey and report does not describe visitor uses in specific areas within the Forest. Statistics are 

only valid at the Forest level. The survey found that one percent of all recreation visits that year were

primarily for OHV use. This percentage equates to roughly 31,095 visits during 2001/2002. 

A somewhat larger percentage of Deschutes National Forest visitors indicated they participated in OHV 

recreation even if it was not their primary reason for visiting the Forest. The total percentage of visitors 

that reported OHV use as a primary or secondary activity was 2.47 percent of all visits, or roughly 76,802 

visits. Although, the East Ft. Rock OHV trail system is a popular destination for many OHV users, overall 

use is considerably below the average percent participation for Oregon overall (22.2 percent participation) 

as reported in the National Survey on Recreation and the Environment (Cordell, Betz, Green and 

Stephens 2008). 

For the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland, national visitor use monitoring findings also support their 

niche statement position that the Forest was not a major provider of OHV recreation in the year sampled 

(see English, Kocis and Hales 2001). The first round of NVUM surveys for the Forest was conducted 

between January 1, 2000 and September 30, 2000. The NVUM survey and report does not describe visitor 

uses in specific areas within the Forest. Statistics are only valid at the forest level. The survey found that 

there were no recreation visits that year primarily for OHV use. 

A higher number of Ochoco National Forest and Grassland visitors indicated that they did participate in 

OHV recreation, but it was not their primary reason for visiting the Forest. The total percentage of visitors 

that reported OHV use as a primary or secondary activity was 3.35 percent of all visits, or roughly 19,900 

visits. These data are considerably below the average percent participation for Oregon overall (22.2 

percent participation) as reported in the National Survey on Recreation and the Environment (Cordell, 

Betz, Green and Stephens 2008). 

Nationally, about 2.5 percent of the 205 million annual recreation visits to national forests have 

participated in OHV use as their primary activity. A slightly higher percentage (3.1 percent) reported 

OHV use as a secondary activity (see Table 11). The percentage of forest visitors that report OHV use as 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 79

their primary (or as their secondary) use in the Deschutes National Forest is 2.47 percent or about equal to 

the national average (English, Kocis and Hales 2004). The percentage of forest visitors that report OHV 

use as their primary (or as their secondary) use in the Ochoco National Forest is 3.35 percent or slightly 

higher than the national average (English, Kocis and Hales 2004). 

The recently released 2008 NVUM data also supports the Niche statement, reporting that 3.7 percent of 

those surveyed on both Forests participated in OHV use, and out of those 1.1 percent reported OHV use 

as their primary activity. The 2008 survey included a new category indicating the number of those 

surveyed who participated in motorized trail activity. 2.45 percent of those surveyed indicated that they 

participated in motorized trail activities, and 0.5 percent identified that as their primary activity. The 

findings from both surveys indicate that the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests are not major 

providers of OHV recreation as compared to other activities. Another recent report “The Economic 

Impacts of Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation in Oregon”, prepared for the Oregon Parks and Recreation 

Department, showed a notably higher level of OHV use in the Central Oregon Region. However, this data 

was gathered at the state level and is applicable to a geographic area that reaches from the Columbia 

River to the southern Deschutes county boundary. The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests combined 

equal less than 1/4 of 1 percent of this area, and data included in this report is not directly applicable or 

utilized in this analysis. 

Motorized Recreation Trends

A recent study (Outdoor Industry Foundation, 2006) estimated that 72 percent of Americans aged 16 and 

older participated in an outdoor activity in 2005; with hiking, running and bicycling on trails being three 

of the most frequently reported activities. Trail use by motorized recreational vehicles is also growing in 

popularity. All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) entered the recreation and tourism marketplace in the early 1970s 

and, since then, ridership has grown rapidly. The Specialty Vehicle Institute of America estimates that 

ATV sales increased over 280 percent nationwide in the US since 1994 (Specialty Vehicle Institute of 

America, 2006). ATV recreation participation is expected to continue to increase across the nation through 

2015 (Cordell, Betz, Green, and Owens, 2005). Within Oregon, the Oregon Parks and Recreation 

Department (OPRD) expects to sell approximately 85,000 OHV stickers valid for two years in 2010. 

Based on the initial data of the Central Oregon Off-Highway Vehicle Use Study conducted by Virginia 

State University during 2008 (Table 13); East Fort Rock has the highest use levels for OHV recreational 

purposes, and the Millican Plateau is second. 

Table 13. Central Oregon off-highway vehicle use study data

Henderson Flat areas 29.4%

East Fort Rock areas 63.5%

Millican 44.8%

Meadow Lakes 3.4%

Edison Butte 8.3%

Oregon Dunes NRA 31.6%

Sand Lake 18.1%

Seventy-seven percent of the visitors are returning users to Central Oregon OHV trails. Seventy percent 

of the visitors stay overnight and average a three day trip. Thirty percent make day use trips averaging a 

six hour day. In a typical year, 12 days were spent recreating in Central Oregon, 24 days at other OHV 

areas. The average miles traveled from the primary residence to this area was 129 miles. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

80 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

The composition of the various groups visiting the area was 42 percent friends, 30 percent family and 

friends, 24 percent family, 3 percent single and 11⁄2 percent organized clubs or organizations. Forty one 

percent of the visitors were 31-40 years old.

Table 14. Demographic visitation data

20 or 

younger

21 – 30 years 31-40 years 41-50 years 51-60 years 61 and over

3.1% 15% 40.9% 27.8% 8.8% 4.4%

Off-highway vehicle users enjoy many of the same recreation pursuits as the American population as a 

whole. Three of the top five most popular recreation pursuits in this country are common to the entire 

population including OHV users. According to Cordell et al. (2008) the recreation activities with the

highest percent participation nationally in the total population are walking for pleasure (developed 

setting), family gatherings outdoors, viewing and photographing natural scenery, visiting nature centers, 

and driving for pleasure. The recreation activities with the highest percent participation among all OHV 

users nationally, are walking for pleasure (developed setting), driving for pleasure, family gatherings 

outdoors, sightseeing, and viewing/photographing natural scenery (Cordell, Betz, Green and Stephens 

2008). These data are displayed in Table 11 for the purpose of comparing Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forest visitor participation against national visitation.

Primary OHV users also participate in a variety of other recreation activities during their forest visit 

(English, Kocis and Hales 2004). In Region 6, the most popular secondary activity for primary OHV 

users is developed camping (Table 15). Relaxing and viewing natural features also had high participation 

rates.

Table 15. Secondary activities reported by primary OHV users in the Pacific Northwest Region of the Forest 

Servicea

Activity % of Primary OHV Users

Developed Camping 49.85

Primitive Camping 5.96

Viewing Wildlife 24.42

Viewing Natural Features 46.22

Visiting Historic Sites 0.04

Relaxing 46.46

Fishing 1.99

Hunting 0.03

Driving for Pleasure 16.74

Hiking/Walking 20.40

Gathering Forest Products 9.54

a - Data source is the first round of National Visitor Use Monitoring surveys (English, Kocis and Hales 2004).

Cordell reports on the remarkable growth of OHV use in the United States. At the time of the first 

National Recreation Survey in 1960, OHV recreation was not included as a reportable activity (Cordell et 

al. 2008). OHV use today, however, is among the fastest growing outdoor activities. Nationally, the 

number of people (16+ years of age) who report participating in OHV sports is over 44 million (Table 

15). Annual OHV sales more than tripled between 1995 and 2003 (sales have leveled off since 2003). 

Total OHV ownership of newly purchased and previously purchased machines increased 174 percent 

between 1993 and 2003, from fewer than three million to more than eight million vehicles. ATVs account 

for about 70 percent of all OHVs, not counting full-size, 4-wheel drive vehicles (Cordell et al. 2008). 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 81

Based on survey data and sales trends, Cordell predicted that there could be as many as 9.8 million ATVs 

and off-road motorcycles in the US in early 2008 (Cordell et al. 2008). 

Motorized Recreation Preferences

In Oregon, ATV riding (3 and 4 wheel) is by far the most popular type of OHV use, reported by 40 

percent of OHV users as their favorite activity (Bergerson and Loughlan 2005). Seventy percent of 

Oregon households participating in OHV sports report that they rode an ATV in 2004 (see Table 16). 

Many households participate frequently. The State survey did not ask how many individuals in the 

household participated in each activity, so no figure for total participation is estimated by this source.

Off-road motorcycling is reported to be the favorite activity by 25 percent of OHV users. Eleven percent 

of OHV users favor four-wheel driving with stock vehicles and eight percent of four-wheel driving with 

modified vehicles, respectively. Modified 4WD vehicles have modified tires and/or suspension upgrades.

Based on observation, and anecdotal data samples, user preferences on the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forest are similar to the state survey data results. 

Table 16. Frequency of motorized trail participation in Oregon among households reporting OHV 

participationa

Activity

Participated in 

Last Year 

(percent)

Estimated 

Oregon 

Households

Of Participants in Last Year, How 

Often? (percent)

Weekly 2-3/ 

Month

Once/

Month

Less 

Often

ATV Riding (3 and 4 wheel) 70 68,600 12 34 19 34

Off-road motorcycling 44 43,100 16 29 20 35

4-wheel driving (stock) 44 43,100 21 24 24 31

4-wheel driving (modified) 29 28,400 21 21 33 24

a - Data is from the 2004 Oregon Statewide Motorized Trail User Survey. N = 196.

The Oregon Statewide Motorized Trail User Survey also asked OHV users about trail difficulty 

preferences. Fifty-one percent of respondents prefer more difficult trails. Twenty-eight percent prefer 

most difficult trails. Twenty-one percent prefer easier trails.

Information obtained from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department indicates that OHV use rapidly 

gained popularity. In 1997, there were 3.9 million ATVs nationally and two million off-highway 

motorcycles. In 2002, there were 800,000 ATV sales and 300,000 off-highway motorcycles sales, almost 

2,200 ATVs per day. During this period, sales increased 171 percent in the western states. The overall 3rd 

quarter 2008 Motorcycle sales figures reported include motorcycles, scooters and ATVs. Total sales year 

to date, from January to September of 2008 were down 10.7 percent compared to 2007, brought down by 

another 25 percent decrease in ATV sales. ATV sales have dropped approximately 25 percent each quarter 

this year when compared to 2007. Dual sport sales were up 29.4 percent, proving that this segment 

remains extremely popular with American motorcyclists. Sales were 39,805 year to date compared to 

30,759 by the 3rd quarter of 2007. Off highway motorcycle sales continue to suffer; down 24.9 percent 

year to date with 114,174 sold year to date compared to 152,086 by the end of the 3rd quarter in 2007.

Comparing December 2007 to December 2006, sales of off-road bikes were down 27.7 percent; street 

bikes were down 19.7 percent; scooters were down 21.1 percent and all motorcycle categories combined 

were down 23.2 percent. ATV sales were also off 28.3 percent (webBikeWorld, April 2009). 

In July 2007 Dave Crocker of Power Products Marketing reported that US sales of traditional brand ATVs 

were in their third consecutive year of decline. Based on his research, this is because over the last three 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

82 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

years an increasing number of older buyers are trading in their ATVs and opting for the more appealing 

utility vehicles or side-by-side vehicles as they are often called. Surveys conducted by Power Products 

Marketing indicate that as much as 10 percent of annual ATV sales are lost to competing utility vehicles 

(Crocker, July 2007). 

Non-motorized Recreation Trends

Non-motorized recreation continues to be one of the most popular categories of recreation throughout the 

state and within the local region. National visitor use monitoring (NVUM) findings show that most 

visitors participate in non-motorized activities (English, Kocis and Hales 2003). A description of visitor 

activities was compiled from the survey. 

On the Deschutes National Forest, the top six recreation activities of visitors were hiking/walking, 

relaxing, viewing wildlife, viewing natural features, fishing, and downhill ski/snowboarding. Each visitor 

also picked one of these activities as their primary activity for the current recreation visit to the forest. 

The top primary activities were downhill snowboarding, fishing, hiking/walking, relaxing, and viewing 

natural features (see Table 11). 

Table 17. Trends in participation for selected outdoor recreational activities in the United States, 1999-2008, 

by number of participants, and number of daysa

Activity

Total U.S. 

Participants 

(1,000s), 

2005-2008

Percent Change in 

Participants, 

1999-2001 to

2005-2008

Total Annual 

Participant Days 

(millions), 

2005-2008

Percent change 

in Total Days, 

1999-2001 to

2005-2008

Developed Camping 52,021 2.7 532.3 9.3

Primitive Camping 33,330.2 -2.0 310.4 12.1

Backpacking 22,077.0 -0.6 277.7 24.0

Picnicking 115,836.2 -1.4 779.7 -17.2

Viewing Natural Scenery 145,489.2 14.1 11,482.3 60.5

Visiting Historic Sites 92,920.8 -4.5 590.8 -15.2

Nature Center Activities 127,406.5 5.0 1,044.0 23.2

Drive Off-road 44,231.3 18.6 1,349.6 56.1

Driving for Pleasure 111,069.0 3.1 2,637.3 -1.1

Snowmobiling 8,328.2 -29.7 92.7 -27.4

Day Hiking 74,032.5 6.8 1,993.4 -20.9

Horseback Riding (trail) 15,262.6 -8.2 278.3 -35.2

Bicycling 91,225.5 7.7 - -

Kayaking 12,480.5 63.1 76.1 29.4

Downhill Skiing 15,615.4 -14.8 126.4 -15.7

Cross-country Skiing 4,970.7 -39.2 58.8 -7.8

Gathering Forest Products 71,023.3 16.1 869.3 1.9

View or Photograph Birds 81,119.9 19.3 8,039.0 37.6

Viewing Other Wildlife 114,792.0 21.3 5,341.6 46.9

Mountain Climbing 11,811.2 -12.5 104.1 20.5

Visit a Wilderness 70,591.9 3.0 1,108.6 12.8

a - Excerpted from Cordell, Betz et al 2008. Source: NSRE 1999-2001 (n=52607) and 2005-2008 (n=19,186). Note: 1999-2001 

participants based on 214.0 million people age 16+ (2000 Census). 2005-2008 participants based on 230.0 million people age 16+ 

(2006 Census estimate). Missing data indicate that either participation or annual days were not collected during that time period.

The 2000 NVUM for the Ochoco National Forest supports the popularity of non-motorized recreation on 

the forest (Kocis, English et al 2001). The top five recreation activities of visitors were viewing 

wildlife/nature, viewing scenery, primitive camping, fishing, hiking/walking. Each visitor also picked one 

of these activities as their primary activity for the current recreation visit to the forest. The top primary 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 83

activities were developed camping, viewing wildlife/nature, hunting, horseback riding, and general 

relaxing. 

Some quiet recreation activities show strong growth, and they are predicted to become even more popular 

(such as viewing natural scenery, hiking, bicycling, kayaking, and viewing wildlife). Other quiet activities 

are becoming less popular (such as horseback riding, primitive camping, and cross-country skiing). Such 

trends may represent a reordering of priorities (Cordell, Betz et al. 2008).

Regional Recreation Trend Projections

The following tables display trends for dispersed recreational activities in the Pacific Region 

(Washington, Oregon, California, Alaska and Hawaii). Table 18 shows a baseline figure of the number of 

participants in the Pacific Region for each activity, and projected growth index for 2010, 2020 and 2050. 

Table 19 displays the same activities, listing the number of days participated and projected growth indices 

for the same years.

Table 18. Participation in some dispersed recreational activities in the Pacific Region, and projection index 

for participation in 2010, 2020, and 2050 (Cordell et al. 1999)

Activity 1995 

Participants

2010 Projection 

index

2020 Projection 

index

2050 Projection 

Index

Hiking 10,900,000 1.23 1.34 1.85

Biking 9,800,000 1.19 1.29 1.65

Horseback Riding 2,400,000 1.18 1.29 1.77

Primitive Camping 5,600,000 1.13 1.23 1.44

Fishing 7,500,000 1.12 1.20 1.38

Hunting 1,700,000 0.85 0.79 0.64

Developed Camping 8,800,000 1.19 1.32 1.73

Off-Road Driving 4,700,000 1.10 1.20 1.33

Picnicking 15,800,000 1.2 1.31 1.63

Sightseeing 18,500,000 1.26 1.42 1.87

Wildlife viewing/photography 16,700,000 1.23 1.37 1.77

The projection index represents the percent increase in the number of participants expected for that 

activity for a specific decade in Table 18 and the percent increase in the total number of days participated 

attributed to the activity in the Pacific Region in Table 19. Multiplying the projection index by the 1995 

baseline gives the projected growth in participation and the projected growth for the total number of days 

of dispersed recreation anticipated for a given activity.

Table 19. Number of days of some dispersed recreation activities in the Pacific Region, and projection index 

for participation in 2010, 2020, and 2050 (Cordell et.al. 1999)

Activity 1995 Participants 

- Days

2010 Projection 

index

2020 Projection 

index

2050 Projection 

Index

Hiking 192,800,000 1.20 1.31 1.62

Biking 400,900,000 1.16 1.24 1.55

Horseback Riding 76,700,000 1.10 1.21 1.70

Primitive Camping 57,500,000 1.26 1.46 2.08

Fishing 119,100,000 1.16 1.25 1.44

Hunting 36,000,000 0.95 0.96 0.81

Developed Camping 92,900,000 1.23 1.39 1.88

Off-Road Driving 98,900,000 1.09 1.13 1.42

Picnicking 180,400,000 1.21 1.35 1.62

Sightseeing 363,500,000 1.38 1.67 2.59
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

84 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Wildlife viewing/photography 838,000,000 1.33 1.58 2.14

The data displayed in Table 18 and Table 19 represent a subset of all recreational activities covered in this 

study, and apply to the Pacific Region in general, not just to recreation activities on national forests. See 

the study for more details regarding study design, projection parameters and assumptions (Cordell et al. 

1999). 

Recreation data for the Pacific Region from these studies display trends that could be expected for 

visitation on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests in the coming decades. According to these 

projections; sightseeing, followed by non-consumptive wildlife activities like bird watching, wildlife 

viewing and photography will account for the most recreation use in the future, with picnicking, hiking, 

biking, developed camping, fishing, primitive camping, off-road driving, horseback riding, and hunting 

following. This data also indicates that people participating in non-consumptive wildlife activities spend 

more days participating in their activity than do other recreationists. Heavy growth in the demand for 

sightseeing (87 percent increase by 2050), hiking (85 percent increase by 2050), and non-consumptive 

wildlife activities (77 percent increase by 2050) could be expected. The demand for off-road driving is 

projected to increase by about 20 percent by 2020. The data suggests the demand for activities that favor 

semi-primitive non-motorized settings both summer and winter will be heaviest in the future, competing 

with a growing demand for semi-primitive motorized settings for off-road vehicle use. It is important to 

note that recreationists often participate in more than one activity during any given outing, and could be 

represented more than once in the preceding data. 

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Motorized Access Not Affected by the Proposed Action

There are some past decisions about motorized access that would not be affected by this proposed action. 

Past administrative decisions that have established seasons of use for specific areas (not including 

proposed Forest Plan amendments), designated motorized routes (roads and trails) or areas, or closed or 

decommissioned National Forest Transportation System roads would not be changed by any alternatives 

considered within the scope of this proposed action. The Travel Management Rule allows for some 

exclusion or exemptions for motorized access, such as over snow or water, as otherwise authorized by 

permit, and for administrative or emergency access.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 85

Table 20. Recreation opportunity spectrum (ROS) settings outside designated wilderness

ROS classification acres

Deschutes National Forest

SPM – Semi-Primitive Motorized 1,474

SPM – Semi-Primitive Motorized (winter only) 151,642

R - Rural 1,232

RN – Roaded Natural 387,542

RNM - Roaded Modified 823,823

Total 1,365,713

Ochoco National Forest and Crooked Rived National Grasslands

RM - Roaded Modified 575,690

RN – Roaded Natural 52,255

SPM – Semi-Primitive Motorized 1,198

SPNM – Semi-Primitive (non-motorized) 57,945

Total 687,088

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) Settings

On the Deschutes National Forest, the ROS settings outside of designated wilderness areas listed in Table 

20 (1,365,713 acres or roughly 85 percent) would not be affected by the decisions considered here.

On the Ochoco National Forests, the ROS settings outside of designated wilderness areas listed in Table 

20 (687,088 acres or roughly 95 percent) would not be affected by the decisions considered here. 

Developed Recreation Sites 

On the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, motorized access to developed sites would not be 

affected by the decisions considered here. Management of these sites would remain the same. Motorized 

access for dispersed camping would continue to be prohibited within 1⁄4 mile of all developed 

campgrounds on the Deschutes. The developed sites that allow OHVs on the Deschutes (China Hat 

Campground, Edison and East Ft. Rock OHV Staging areas and Trailheads) would continue to allow 

OHV use. The developed sites that allow OHVs on the Ochoco (Green Mountain Trail and Henderson 

Flat Staging Areas and Trailheads) would continue to allow OHV use.

Designated Routes and Areas Open to Motorized Access

On the Deschutes National Forest, there are approximately 6,132 miles of existing designated roads, 343 

miles of existing designated motorized trails (East Ft. Rock and Edison Trail systems), and approximately 

91535 acres of designated areas included in existing designated motorized trail systems that are currently 

open to motorized access by either highway or non-highway-legal vehicles or both. On the Ochoco 

National Forest, there are approximately 1,892 miles of existing designated roads, and 26.5 miles of 

existing designated motorized trails (Green Mountain Trail, and Henderson Flat Trail system). Designated 

motorized trail systems permit only specific classes of vehicles. These designations would not be affected 

by this decision. 

 

35 Because the actual area of these sites is geographically small, they are represented on the maps and in the calculated acres 

based on a 1⁄4 mile circle that is roughly in the location of the areas currently open to motorized access off designated routes 

within existing designated trail systems. This may represent a larger area than is actually designated on the ground and is only 

meant to illustrate the general location of the sites and relative acreage. Detailed maps of the designated motorized trail systems 

are available that more accurately depict the designated areas of the campgrounds, staging and other open areas within the current 

designated motorized trail systems. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

86 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Potential conflicts between motor vehicle use and existing or proposed recreational use on or adjacent to 

areas designated as open to cross-country travel were considered in the determination of an open or closed 

designation for each area (DEIS, p. 40). Current use within the rock/cinder pits proposed to remain open 

includes a variety of activities that appear to co-exist without direct conflict, including parking for OHV 

staging or overnight use, and target shooting. Most areas remaining open under the action alternatives 

have a low potential for user conflict based on the existing uses at the site. Pits remaining open will have 

the extent of the motorized use allowed under this decision reduced to the existing pit area in order to 

minimize the conflicts with recreational uses adjacent to the area, such as hiking or localized fishing. 

Conflicts between different classes of motor vehicle uses within the rock/cinder pit areas were not raised 

as an issue during the public comment period or by internal staff.

Areas with Seasonal Motorized Uses

On both the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, seasonal use periods for motorized access on 

designated roads have been established across the two forests by past administrative actions to protect a 

variety of resources or to provide quality hunting experiences. With the exception of minor seasonal use 

period adjustments included in the proposed forest plan amendments, existing seasonal use periods on 

designated routes would not be affected by this decision. 

Motorized Access off Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

Areas Closed to All Motorized Access

There are approximately 198,908 acres on the Deschutes and approximately 74,465 on the Ochoco 

National Forest where all motorized access is prohibited, which would not be affected by this decision. 

This does not include all of the acres currently closed to motorized access on the Ochoco. Approximately 

13,525 acres along McKay Creek are under a temporary public motorized use restriction that would be 

modified by the proposed action. Areas that would not be affected by this decision are primarily 

wilderness areas, but also include areas where motorized access is restricted or prohibited by other order 

or past decision and where there are no open designated routes, such as Research Natural Areas and some 

of the old-growth areas on the Ochoco National Forest. These areas are displayed as “Existing – Closed to 

Motorized Access” on the Alternative 1, 2 and 3 – Motorized Access off Designated Routes maps; and on 

the Alternative 1 and 2 – Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping maps.

Areas Closed to OHV Access

There are approximately 59,412 acres on the Deschutes National Forest where off-highway vehicle use on 

and off of designated motorized routes is prohibited. Forest Plan direction that specifically prohibits OHV 

use within a particular management area would not be affected by this decision. The Ochoco National 

Forest does not have any areas closed specifically to OHVs.

Areas Closed to Cross-country travel

There are approximately 729,187 acres on the Deschutes National Forest, approximately 204,081 acres on 

the Ochoco National Forest, and 77,546 acres on the Crooked River National Grassland that currently 

prohibit cross-country travel that would not be affected by this decision.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 87

Dispersed Recreation

There are approximately 202,727 acres on the Deschutes National Forest, 31,66536 acres on the Ochoco 

National Forest, and 77,546 acres on the Crooked River National Grassland that are currently and would 

remain closed to motorized access for dispersed camping and other dispersed recreation activities that 

would not be affected by this decision.

Non-Motorized Recreation Use and Non-Motorized Trails

There are approximately 729,187 acres on the Deschutes National Forest where all motorized access is 

prohibited, which would not be affected by this decision and would continue to provide non-motorized 

recreation opportunities. There are roughly 575 miles of forest system trails outside designated wilderness 

areas managed exclusively for non-motorized uses (excluding snowmobile and cross-country ski trails). 

In addition, there are 323 miles of wilderness trails available only for hiking and horseback riding. The 

343 miles of forest trails managed for motorized OHV use would continue to be open to non-motorized 

uses. No decisions considered here would have any effect on non-motorized use within these areas or on 

designated non-motorized trail systems. As stated previously, there are approximately 74,465 acres on the 

Ochoco National Forest where all motorized access is prohibited, which would not be affected by this 

decision and would continue to provide non-motorized recreation opportunities. There are roughly 132 

miles of forest system trails outside designated wilderness areas managed exclusively for non-motorized 

uses (excluding snowmobile and cross-country ski trails). In addition, there are 38.4 miles of wilderness 

trails available only for hiking and horseback riding. The 26.5 miles of forest trails managed for 

motorized OHV use would continue to be open to non-motorized uses. No decisions considered here 

would have any effect on non-motorized use within these areas or on designated non-motorized trail 

systems. 

Alternative 1

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) Settings

If no action were taken to change motorized access off of designated routes, approximately 1,020 acres on 

the Deschutes and 463 acres on the Ochoco would continue to permit cross-country travel within areas 

classified as semi-primitive non-motorized unless resource damage is occurring. This alternative would 

continue to benefit those motorized users that prefer more solitude, and a more primitive setting for their 

recreation activities. In addition, Alternative 1 would continue to allow, unless specifically determined 

otherwise by a separate decision, motorized access for dispersed camping and other dispersed recreation 

activities on approximately 21,343 acres on the Deschutes National Forest, and 1,647 acres on the Ochoco 

National Forest either year-round or seasonally. Although motorized use is not specifically prohibited 

under the semi-primitive non-motorized classification, continued use would compromise the nonmotorized recreational experience and setting requirements that these areas were classified to meet. 

Motorized Access on Designated Routes – Roads

For the Deschutes, and Ochoco National Forests, there would be no direct or indirect effect to recreational 

motorized access on National Forest Transportation System roads from implementing the no-action 

 

36 These numbers are calculated from GIS data based on those acres noted on Alternative 2 maps as Continued Existing, Closed 

to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

88 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Alternative. Designated roads would continue to be used as they are at present (see transportation 

section). There would be no immediate changes to roads that allow for mixed uses, although future 

changes to mixed uses could be implemented with other decisions. There would continue to be 5,362 

miles of road on the Deschutes, and 1,648 on the Ochoco open to motorized mixed-use, and 770 miles on 

the Deschutes, and 244 miles on the Ochoco open to highway-legal vehicles only. Use levels should not 

be affected by displacement as there would be no change in cross-country travel access opportunities. 

Motorized Access on Designated Routes – Trails

Certain classes of ATVs are permitted on roughly 343 miles of forest trails on the Deschutes National 

Forest, and roughly 26 miles of forest trails on the Ochoco National Forest. 

There would be no direct or indirect effect to recreational motorized travel on National Forest System

trails on either Forest from implementing the no-action Alternative. Designated motorized trails would 

continue to be used as they are at present for designated vehicle classes. Use levels should not be affected 

from displacement as there would be no change in cross-country travel access opportunities. 

Motorized Access off Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

If no action were taken to change motorized access off of designated routes, approximately 625,430 acres 

on the Deschutes and 431,784 acres on the Ochoco would permit cross-country travel unless resource 

damage is occurring. Indirectly, this may result in an increasing number of unauthorized motorized routes. 

In 2004 an inventory of these routes was completed in several areas across the two Forests. On the 

Ochoco National Forest, the Central Oregon Motorcycle and Trail Association also has provided locations 

of where unauthorized motorized trails off designated routes have been created; or where designated 

National Forest Transportation System roads have been closed but still used by off road enthusiasts. 

Although these do not represent a comprehensive inventory of unauthorized routes, these inventories 

illustrate a sample of the kinds and amounts of unauthorized motorized trails that are very likely to 

continue to be developed if there is no change. In addition, there would continue to be confusion among 

forest visitors about where or when motorized access is or is not allowed, or for what type of vehicle, and 

how or where to find that information. Opportunities for cross-country travel on new or existing 

unauthorized routes would continue, allowing motorized users who prefer off route travel access to those 

kinds of experiences, including access for quad ATVs, single track motorcycles, and 4WD jeep type 

vehicle recreational riding, hunting, scouting game, game retrieval, and gathering forest products such as 

antlers, mushrooms, cones, etc. Resource damage from inappropriate motorized uses would continue to 

occur. Conflicts between motorized and non-motorized users would continue and likely increase as visitor 

use increases over time. 

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

On both Forests, motorized access for dispersed camping, along with other dispersed recreation activities 

would continue to be allowed as provided for by current laws, regulations, policies, Forest Orders, Forest 

Plan direction, or site-specific decision. In the Pacific Region, which includes the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests, the growth rate for primitive camping has been projected to increase by 23 percent by 

2020 (Cordell et al. 1999, see Recreation Specialist Report). Alternative 1 would continue to allow, unless 

specifically determined otherwise by a separate decision, motorized access for dispersed camping and 

other dispersed recreation activities on approximately 1,154,185 acres on the Deschutes National Forest, 

and 502,236 acres on the Ochoco National Forest either year-round or seasonally. With populations 

increasing, over time, new motorized access routes may be created; either to existing or new campsites to 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 89

accommodate increased demand, especially in prime areas (near streams, lakes, or other attractive 

features). If big game tag limits are increased in any hunting unit, there may be an increase in motorized 

access to new campsites to meet demand. Sites located more than 300 feet from a designated road would 

still be accessible for motorized vehicles. Resource impacts such as soil compaction and erosion and loss 

of vegetation would continue to occur and increase with increased use. 

Non-Motorized Recreation Use and Non-Motorized Trails

If no action were taken to change cross-country travel and motorized access to dispersed camping, there 

would continue to be impacts to non-motorized users from noise, dust, exhaust and proximity to 

motorized uses. This impact would be expected to increase with population increases, and increased forest 

visitation. On the Deschutes, there are 194 miles, and on the Ochoco 46 miles of non-motorized trails 

located in areas open to cross-country travel. It is often unclear to motorized users that these trails are not 

open to motorized use. These trails located in areas open to cross-country travel may receive increased 

motorized use as they become more indistinguishable from a motorized trail. 

Actions Common to Alternatives 2 and 3 

Motorized Travel on Designated Roads and Trails

On the Deschutes National Forest, approximately 5,181 miles of road would remain available for OHV 

use (all ATV classes). An additional 951 miles of road would be open only to highway licensed vehicles 

as provided for by current laws, regulations, policies, Forest Orders, Forest Plan direction, or site-specific 

decision. On the Ochoco National Forest approximately 1,522 miles of road would remain available for 

OHV use (all ATV classes). An additional 369 miles of road would be open only to highway licensed 

vehicles as provided for by current laws, regulations, policies, Forest Orders, Forest Plan direction, or 

site-specific decision. 

Motorized access for highway-legal vehicles only would be permitted on approximately 181 miles of road 

on the Deschutes, and on approximately 125 miles of road on the Ochoco National Forest. This would 

change how the public accesses the forest. People using non-highway-legal vehicles may not be able to 

connect to favorite destinations, campsites, people’s homes, or to community services, as well as to other 

roads where motorized mixed–use would be permitted. It is assumed that most spur roads less than 1⁄4 

mile in length would not provide a high quality motorized recreation experience, however loss of 

contiguous access to these roads will impact the number of available access points to the forest for nonmotorized use (i.e.: hunting, picnicking, non-commercial gathering of forest products, etc.) available to 

non-highway-legal vehicles.

Table 21. Expected change in motorized mixed use

Forest Open to Highway-Legal Only Open to Motorized Mixed-Use Open 

Existing Alts 2 & 3 Change Existing Alts 2 & 3 Change Miles

Deschutes NF 770 951 181 5,362 5,181 -181 6,132

Ochoco NF 242 367 125 1,388 1,262 -125 1,630

Crooked River NG 2 2 0 260 260 0 262

Totals: 1,014 1,320 306 7,010 6,703 -306 8,024
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

90 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Motorized Access off Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

For the Deschutes National Forest, the actions common to both Alternatives 2 and 3, when combined with 

areas that currently prohibit cross-country travel, would prohibit cross-country travel on more than 99 

percent of the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests (approximately 1,353,542 acres on the Deschutes, 

and 649,181 on the Ochoco). In addition, 198,908 acres would be closed to all motorized access on the 

Deschutes National Forest, and 87,990 acres would be closed to all motorized access on the Ochoco 

National Forest and Grassland. While there would be some areas designated open to cross-country travel, 

they are relatively small (less than 1 percent) compared to the total area currently open. These areas 

consist of approximately 200 acres of existing rock quarries on the Deschutes, and 220 acres on the 

Ochoco; approximately 915 acres of play areas in East Ft. Rock; and an estimated 537 acres in the 

Henderson Flat OHV Trail Systems where cross-country OHV use would continue to be permitted (see 

FEIS Chap. 2, p.40 for a detailed description, and the criteria for selection).

Under both alternatives, restricting motorized travel to designated roads and trails would result in a more 

developed recreation experience, allowing for faster speeds and less technical challenge for some classes 

of vehicles. There would be increased use on designated roads and trails with more interaction and 

potential conflicts among different classes of motorized vehicles, especially on motorized mixed-use 

roads. Restricting access to designated roads and trails outside designated cross-country areas would limit 

primitive off-road recreation opportunities and the landscape settings may be less appealing to those who 

favor motorized off-road experiences. Many motorized users utilize level 1 administratively or 

decommissioned closed roads that may or may not be clearly recognized as “closed” on the ground. These 

routes often provide a more primitive solitude type of experience. Although the status of these roads may 

or may not change on the ground, they will not be shown as open designated routes on the MVUM. 

Cross-country travel has created a network of unauthorized user created routes and areas which would not 

be accessible under these alternatives. These routes and open areas provide a different recreational 

experience, allowing for the exploration of unknown areas, finding your own technical challenges, and 

viewing scenery and nature away from others. The roads that are open to non-highway-legal vehicles may 

be fragmented by roads that are open only to highway-legal vehicles which would not provide 

connectivity to desired destinations. The existing designated trail systems that are open to certain classes 

of off-highway vehicles would provide a less developed, and more technically challenging experience 

depending on the class of vehicle. On the Deschutes, there currently are no designated class III single 

track trails favored by many motorcyclists, and only 21 miles of designated class II routes for jeep type 

vehicles. On the Ochoco, there currently are no designated class II routes for jeep type vehicles and no 

designated class III single track trails, which are favored by many motorcyclists. Existing roads do not 

provide the level of challenge or undeveloped motorized experience that many of these users prefer. 

While any future designated trail systems would be designed to provide different levels of challenge, user 

discretion to travel off designated routes would be lost. 

Table 22. Acres open to cross-country travel (% of total forest acres)

Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Deschutes Ochoco Deschutes Ochoco Deschutes Ochoco

Open yearround543,136 

(34%)

189,369

(26%)

1,075

(<1%)

191

(1%) Same as Alternative 2

Open 

Seasonally

82,294

(5%)

242,415

(33%) 0 20(1%) Same as Alternative 2

Closed 987,507

(61%)

292,071

(40%)

1,611,862

(~99%)

723,644

(~99%) Same as Alternative 2

 

37 Acreage estimated from designated area.. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 91

Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Deschutes Ochoco Deschutes Ochoco Deschutes Ochoco

Total 1, 612,937 723,855 1,612,937 723,855 Same as Alternative 2

a - Includes areas currently closed to motorized access off designated routes and areas closed to off-highway vehicles off 

designated routes.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Recreation

Dispersed Camping

Alternatives 2 and 3 would close areas to motorized access for dispersed camping that are currently open 

for this use. This would include a total of about 794,722 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and about 

415,834 acres on the Ochoco National Forest. Most of these proposed closures are outside of the 300 foot 

area adjacent to open roads where motorized access for dispersed camping would still be permitted. 

However, some areas within the 300 foot zone that are currently open for dispersed camping would be 

closed under both Alternatives 2 and 3 due to resource concerns. These areas are shown on the map for 

Alternative 2 – Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping. 

Table 23. Acres of motorized access for dispersed campinga (% of total forest acres)

Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Deschutes Ochoco Deschutes Ochoco Deschutes Ochoco

Year-round

Open 962,717

(60%)

246,712

(34%)

306,875

(19%)

53,056

(7%) 0 0 

Open to Designated 

Sites Only

11, 850

(<1%) 0 Same as Alternative 1

Open with Special 

Provisions- Riparian 0 0 18,435(1%)

29,083

(4%) Same as Alternative 2

Open with Special 

Provisions 

Non-Riparian

0 0 22,304

(1%)

8,899

(1%)

329,179

(20%)

61,955

(9%)

Closed 446,902

(28%)

221,619

(31%)

1,196,357b

(74%)

599,528c

(83%) Same as Alternative 2

Seasonally

Open 191,468

(12%)

255,524

(35%)

46,811

(3%)

16,677

(2%) 0 0 

Open with Special 

Provisions- Riparian 0 0 1,363(<1%)

10,186

(1%) Same as Alternative 2

Open with Special 

Provisions 

Non-Riparian

0 0 8,942

(<1%)

6,426

(~1%)

55,753

(3%)

23,103

(3%)

Total 1,612,937 723,855 1,612,937 723,855 1,612,937 723,855

a – Acreages are coincident with those acres shown in Table 22. Acres open to cross-country travel (% of total forest acres), but 

relate more specifically to where motorized access for dispersed camping is now and would be proposed to be allowed in 

Alternatives 2 and 3.

b – Includes approximately 401,635 acres that would remain unchanged as closed to motorized access for dispersed camping, this 

includes 198,908 acres closed to all motorized access and 202,727 acres currently closed to motorized access for dispersed 

camping

c - Includes approximately 183,694 acres that would remain unchanged as closed to motorized access for dispersed camping, this 

includes 74,465 acres closed to all motorized access and 109,229 acres currently closed to motorized access for dispersed 

camping. 

Special Provision Areas – Riparian: All open designated routes within 300 feet of a stream, wetland, or 

water body that did not otherwise prohibit motorized access for dispersed camping were identified as 

Special Provision – riparian areas. These designations are common to both Alternatives 2 and 3, and 

include approximately 19,798 acres on the Deschutes National Forest, and 39,269 acres on the Ochoco 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

92 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

National Forest. These include areas that would be open to motorized access for dispersed camping both 

year-round and seasonally. 

Special Provision Areas – Non-Riparian: Areas proposed for Special Provision – non-riparian, were 

based on the criteria for identifying Special Provision or areas closed to motorized access for dispersed 

camping within 300 feet of open designated routes in Chapter 2. All of the Special Provision – non 

riparian areas identified in Alternative 2 are included in Alternative 3. On the Deschutes National Forest 

there are approximately 31,246 acres, and on the Ochoco National Forest 15,325 acres that are proposed 

as, open to motorized access for dispersed camping with Special Provisions – non-riparian. These areas 

would have the same designation in both Alternatives 2 and 3. These include areas that would be open to 

motorized access for dispersed camping both year-round and seasonally. 

Areas Proposed to be Opened to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping: 

Both action alternatives propose opening some areas to motorized access for dispersed camping that are 

currently closed under existing Forest Order or Forest Plan direction. These areas were temporarily closed 

to cross-country travel by non-highway-legal vehicles. These areas may be proposed as open to motorized 

access for dispersed camping under the General Provisions of the Travel Management Rule, or open with 

Special Provisions, depending upon the alternative. Most of these acres are on the Crooked River

National Grassland. There are approximately 35,557 acres on the Deschutes National Forest currently 

closed to motorized access for dispersed camping that would be open subject to the General conditions, 

and approximately 8,354 acres on the Ochoco National Forest, all on the Crooked River National 

Grassland (see Table 23). These areas are displayed on the Alternative 2 – Motorized Access for 

Dispersed Camping maps.

Under both Alternatives 2 and 3, opportunities for motorized access to dispersed camping would be 

available either through the General Provisions, or Special Provisions (based on available GIS dispersed 

campsite data for the forests) to approximately 70 percent of the Deschutes National Forest known sites, 

and 80 percent of the known Ochoco National Forest and Grassland sites. Motorized access to sites more 

than 300 feet from a designated open road would no longer be accessible by motorized vehicles unless a 

route is designated to access those sites. An assessment of those sites based on available GIS information 

shows that many of the sites further than 300’ from a designated road are in concentrated use areas such 

as Wickiup and Crane Prairie on the Deschutes National Forest, although there are other small 

concentrations of sites in other areas. On the Ochoco National Forest, sites that are greater than 300’ from 

a designated road are scattered throughout the Forest area. People using recreation vehicles such as 

trailers, campers, toy haulers, motor homes, etc., would be most affected as they would not be able to 

access sites beyond 300 feet with their RVs unlike tent campers who would be able to walk to their 

desired site. Within those acres where camping would be allowed under the Special Provisions, some 

people may find their favorite spot occupied, displacing some visitors to other areas. It is expected that 

those sites located within the Special Provision areas would receive a higher level of use, and that demand 

should increase with increasing population. In areas where visitors have traditionally driven further than 

300’ from a designated, defined, or existing dispersed site in order to launch a boat (most prevalent at 

Wickiup Reservoir), this opportunity would no longer be available. Visitors would have to trailer their 

boat to a designated boat launch. 

Hunting and Gathering

For both Forests, neither Alternatives 2 nor 3 include provisions for cross-country travel for the purposes 

of hunting, scouting game, game retrieval, or gathering forest products for personal use such as antlers, 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 93

mushrooms, cones, etc. Motorized access for collection of commercial forest products and wood cutting 

would be allowed under permit. This would have the highest impact on those who depend more upon a 

motor vehicle as they would no longer have cross-country access. 

Non-Motorized Recreation Use

Non-motorized recreation continues to be one of the most popular categories of recreation throughout the 

state and within the local region. The proposed action would indirectly benefit forest users who prefer 

non-motorized access and recreational activities by prohibiting cross-country travel and by prohibiting 

motorized access for dispersed camping in some areas. Under Alternatives 2 and 3 on the Deschutes 

National Forest there would be approximately 258,320 acres that would be closed to motorized access, 

and an additional 1,354,617 acres where motorized access would be restricted to designated routes only. 

On the Ochoco National Forest there would be approximately 74,465 acres that would be closed to 

motorized access, and an additional 649,170 acres where motorized access would be restricted to 

designated routes only. This action would result in a 53 percent increase in the area where non-motorized 

recreation users could expect reduced encounters or impacts from motorized use. There would be some 

continued effects from motorized use near roads or designated routes, and where dispersed camping is 

allowed, either under General or Special Provisions.

Non-Motorized Trails

On the Deschutes National Forest, there are about 194 miles of non-motorized trail located within areas 

currently open to cross-country travel. On the Ochoco National Forest there are about 46 miles of nonmotorized trail located within areas currently open to cross-country travel. Under Alternatives 2 and 3, on 

both Forests, there would be a beneficial effect to the miles of non-motorized trail located within areas 

currently open to cross-country travel. Motorized access to these trail systems would be limited, and use 

of these non-motorized trails by motor vehicles would be prohibited.

Alternative 2 

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) Settings

Under Alternative 2, no motorized access is allowed off of designated routes which would enhance the 

non-motorized recreational experience and setting requirements under the semi-primitive non-motorized 

classification. Specifically prohibiting cross-country travel would eliminate the motorized recreational 

experience within this more primitive setting and impact those who prefer this type of setting for their 

motorized recreation activities. Creating new motorized routes to access new or existing campsites either 

year round or seasonally within 300 feet of a designated route would be allowed within areas classified as 

semi-primitive non-motorized on 8,161 acres on the Deschutes National Forest, and 90 acres on the 

Ochoco National Forest. Although motorized use is not specifically prohibited under the semi-primitive 

non-motorized classification, it would continue compromise the non-motorized recreational experience 

and setting requirements. 

Motorized access would be restricted to open to motorized access for dispersed camping with Special 

Provisions on 408 acres on the Deschutes National Forest, and 781 acres on the Ochoco National Forest 

where motorized access would be allowed only to designated, defined, or existing campsites. Restricting 

motorized access for dispersed camping only to designated, defined or existing campsites would 

discourage creation of new motorized routes and further enhance the recreational experience and setting 

requirements for semi-primitive non-motorized except in areas of high concentrated use. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

94 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Dispersed Recreation

Alternative 2 would designate some areas as open to motorized access for dispersed camping subject to 

General Provisions only (shown as “continued existing open” or “proposed open” on the Alternative 2 

map), in the upland areas. Alternative 2 would also allow motorized access for dispersed camping within 

Inventoried Roadless Areas under Special Provision conditions only. Those routes and areas that would be 

open to motorized access for dispersed camping in Alternative 2 under either General or Special 

Provisions are shown on the unit-specific Alternative 2 maps.

On the Deschutes National Forest, in addition to the actions common to Alternatives 2 and 3, creating 

new motorized routes to access new or existing campsites would be allowed within the 353,686 acres 

designated as open to motorized access for dispersed camping38 either year round or seasonally within 

300 feet of a designated route. Motorized access would be restricted to open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping with Special Provisions on 51,044 acres where motorized access would be allowed 

only to designated, defined, or existing campsites. On the Ochoco National Forest, Alternative 2 would 

designate approximately 69, 733 acres as open to motorized access for dispersed camping39 either year 

round or seasonally within 300 feet of a designated route, and approximately 54,594 acres on the Ochoco 

National Forest would be open to motorized access for dispersed camping with Special Provisions, either 

year round or seasonally.

Alternative 3

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) Settings

Under Alternative 3, motorized access for dispersed camping within the semi-primitive non-motorized 

classification would be allowed only under Special Provisions on 8,569 acres on the Deschutes National 

Forest, and 871 acres on the Ochoco National Forest. As in Alternative 2, further restricting motorized 

access for dispersed camping only to designated, defined or existing campsites on all of the acres within 

currently open would discourage creation of new routes and have the greatest benefit to the nonmotorized recreational experience and setting requirements under the semi-primitive non-motorized 

classification. 

Motorized Access On and Off Designated Routes

There would be no change in affects to motorized access on or off designated routes from actions 

common to Alternatives 2 and 3.

Dispersed Recreation

Alternative 3 would include all of the actions common to Alternatives 2 and 3. In addition, Alternative 3 

would permit motorized access for dispersed camping only to existing, designated, or defined sites in 

riparian and upland areas (Special Provision conditions would apply to all motorized access for dispersed 

camping adjacent to designated open roads), and would prohibit any motorized access for dispersed 

camping in Inventoried Roadless Areas. Those routes and areas that would be designated as Special 

Provision areas in Alternative 3 are shown on the unit-specific Alternative 3 maps.

 

38 Subject to the “General Provisions” identified earlier in this chapter.

39 Subject to the “General Provisions” identified earlier in this chapter.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 95

Motorized access to sites more than 300 feet from a designated open road would no longer be accessible 

by motorized vehicles unless a future route is designated to access those sites. An assessment of those 

sites based on available GIS information shows that many of the sites further than 300 feet from a 

designated road are in concentrated use areas such as Wickiup and Crane Prairie on the Deschutes 

National Forest, although there are other smaller concentrations of sites in other areas throughout the 

Forest. In areas where visitors have traditionally driven further than 300 feet from a designated, defined, 

or existing dispersed site in order to launch a boat (most prevalent at Wickiup Reservoir), this opportunity 

would no longer be available. Visitors could still launch their boats at designated boat launches. 

Alternative 3 would designate approximately 416,580 acres on the Deschutes, and 85,058 acres on the 

Ochoco and Grassland as open to motorized access for dispersed camping with Special Provisions, either 

year round, or seasonally. 

On the Deschutes National Forest, under this alternative, 997,449 acres would be closed to motorized 

access for dispersed camping, and on the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland, 525,063 acres would be 

closed. There would be no forest acres open to motorized access for dispersed camping under the General 

Provisions. There would be motorized access for dispersed camping with Special Provisions either year 

round or seasonally on 404,730 acres on the Deschutes National Forest, and 124,327 acres on the Ochoco 

National Forest and Grassland. Motorized access would be restricted to sites that are designated, defined 

or existing. Although immeasurable, it is anticipated that Alternative 3 would reduce resource impacts

since it is assumed fewer additional motorized routes to access campsites would be created. This 

alternative would put additional demand on those sites that can be accessed under the Special Provisions, 

especially in areas that traditionally have been heavily used for dispersed camping.

Conclusions

Alternative 1

The no-action/no-change Alternative would continue to allow cross-country travel and would likely result 

in a continued increase in unauthorized user-created motorized routes. Although motorized use is not 

specifically prohibited under the ROS semi-primitive non-motorized classification, continued motorized 

use within areas with that classification would compromise the non-motorized recreational experience and 

setting requirements that these areas were classified to meet. Impacts to non-motorized users from noise, 

dust, and proximity to motorized uses would continue and be expected to increase with population growth 

and forest visitation. Non-motorized trails located within areas open to cross-country travel would receive 

increased motorized use as they become more indistinguishable from a motorized trail. Opportunity for 

motorized access off designated routes on new or existing unauthorized routes would continue, allowing 

motorized users that prefer off route travel access to those kinds of experiences, including recreation 

opportunities for quad ATVs, single track motorcycles, and 4WD vehicles, access for hunting, scouting 

game, game retrieval, and gathering forest products such as antlers, mushrooms, cones, etc. There would 

continue to be confusion among forest visitors about where or when motorized access is or is not allowed, 

or for what type of vehicle, and how or where to find that information. Conflicts between motorized and 

non-motorized users would continue and escalate as visitor use increases over time. With population 

increase, more new motorized routes would likely be created to access either existing or new dispersed 

campsites to accommodate demand, especially in prime areas (near streams, lakes, or other attractive 

features). Resource impacts such as soil compaction and erosion and loss of vegetation would continue to 

occur and increase. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

96 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Alternatives 2 and 3

Restricting motorized access for dispersed camping only to designated, defined or existing campsites 

would discourage creation of new motorized routes and further enhance the recreational experience and 

setting requirements within the areas classified as semi-primitive non-motorized. Effects to motorized use 

would include loss of access by non-highway-legal vehicles to some additional roads that would be open 

only to highway-legal vehicles. There would be increased use on designated roads and trails with more 

interaction and potential conflicts among different classes of motorized vehicles, especially on mixed use 

roads. There would be a change in users’ ability to access the forest as they have in the past; as motorized 

use would be limited to designated routes. The roads that are open to non-highway-legal vehicles may be 

fragmented by roads that are open only to highway-legal vehicles, reducing connectivity to desired

destinations. 

Restricting access to designated roads and trails would impact motorized users who prefer a more 

primitive setting and off-road recreation experience. User discretion to travel off designated routes would 

be lost. Neither Alternatives 2 nor 3 include provisions for cross-country travel for hunting and gathering 

purposes. This would impact those who depend more upon a motor vehicle as they would no longer have 

access off of designated routes to pursue these activities.

Under Alternatives 2 and 3, restricting motorized access for dispersed camping under the General 

Provisions, or to designated, defined, or existing sites under the Special Provisions would most affect 

people using recreation vehicles (RVs) such as trailers, campers, toy haulers, motor homes, etc. These 

users would not be able to access sites beyond 300 feet off designated routes with their RVs, unlike tent 

campers, who would have the option to walk to their desired site. It is expected that some people may not 

be able to access their favorite spot because it is already occupied. This would displace some visitors to 

other areas. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would result in a substantial increase in the areas where non-motorized recreation 

users could expect to not encounter or be impacted by motorized users. There would be a beneficial effect 

to the miles of non-motorized trail located within areas currently open to cross-country travel. Motorized 

access to these trail systems would be limited, and use of these non-motorized trails by motor vehicles 

would be prohibited.

Alternative 3

There would be no change in effects to motorized access on or off designated routes from actions 

common to Alternatives 2 and 3.

Alternative 3 would include all of the actions common to Alternatives 2 and 3. In addition, Alternative 3 

would allow motorized access for dispersed camping only to existing, designated, or defined sites in 

riparian and upland areas (Special Provision conditions would apply to all motorized access for dispersed 

camping adjacent to designated open roads), and would prohibit any motorized access for dispersed 

camping in Inventoried Roadless Areas. Those routes and areas that would be designated as Special 

Provision areas in Alternative 3 are shown on the unit specific Alternative 3 maps.

Further restricting motorized access for dispersed camping only to designated, defined or existing 

campsites on all of the acres with the semi-primitive non-motorized under the ROS would discourage 

creation of new routes and have the greatest benefit to the non-motorized recreational experience and 

setting requirements under the semi-primitive non-motorized classification.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 97

Although immeasurable, Alternative 3 should reduce resource impacts and impacts to non-motorized 

users because no additional motorized routes to access campsites should be created. However, this 

alternative would put additional demand on sites that can be accessed under the Special Provisions, 

especially in areas heavily used for dispersed camping.

Congressionally Designated Areas 

Executive Summary

This section summarizes the analysis of the effects from implementing the actions proposed in this FEIS 

on congressionally designated areas. Congressionally designated areas are areas Congress has identified 

as having unique characteristics. These areas include wilderness areas, national recreation and research 

areas, wild and scenic river corridors, areas of special geological interest, and historic trails and sites. 

Wilderness areas are described in the affected environment, but wilderness acres are not included in the 

analysis as there would be no affect to wilderness areas from the alternatives being considered in this 

document. The areas covered in this analysis include wild and scenic river corridors, Newberry National 

Volcanic Monument, and Oregon Cascades Recreation Area. These areas comprise approximately 

152,753 acres on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland. 

Potential effects to the unique values of these congressionally designated areas could result from the 

impacts of cross-country travel and motorized access for dispersed camping. 

There is no difference in the effects to cross-country travel between Alternatives 2 and 3. Most 

Congressionally Designated Areas already restrict motorized access to designated routes, less than 1 

percent or approximately 1,141 acres, currently permit cross-country travel. Although the affected areas 

are a relatively small percentage of the total within the CDAs where cross-country travel is currently not 

prohibited, (969 acres on the Deschutes National Forest, and 172 acres on the Ochoco National Forest), 

both action alternatives would restrict all motorized travel to designated roads and/or trails which would 

have a beneficial effect by further protecting and enhancing the unique values of each area. 

In Alternatives 2 and 3, the impacts from cross-country travel, and motorized access for dispersed 

camping would be reduced which would protect and enhance the values for each of these special areas. 

Alternative 3 offers the highest level of protection as motorized access for dispersed camping would be 

allowed only under the Special Provisions (designated, defined, or existing sites). Under Alternatives 2 

and 3, these areas would be primarily closed to all motorized access or closed to cross-country travel. 

Under Alternative 2, about 48,647 acres, or 32 percent of the congressionally designated areas would be 

open to motorized access for dispersed camping under the General Provisions, and 2, 976 acres or 2 

percent would be open under the Special Provisions. Under Alternative 3, approximately 51,623 acres or 

34 percent would be open to motorized access for dispersed camping only under the Special Provisions. 

This would have the most beneficial effect on the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, as 77 percent 

of the monument would be open to motorized access for dispersed camping under the General Provisions 

in Alternative 240. 

 

40 An error in the total area currently and proposed to be available for motorized access for dispersed camping in the Newberry 

National Volcanic Monument is corrected in the Record of Decision. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

98 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Affected Environment

Wild and Scenic Rivers

On the Deschutes National Forest, there are six rivers that are part of the Wild and Scenic Rivers System:

Upper Deschutes, Little Deschutes, Metolius, Whychus41 (Squaw Creek), Crescent Creek and Big Marsh 

Creek, comprising 135.4 river miles. On the Ochoco National Forest, there are three rivers that are part of 

the Wild and Scenic Rivers System: North Fork Crooked River, Lower Crooked and Middle Deschutes 

comprising a total of 20.4 river miles. The designated river corridors consist of approximately 50,959 

acres out of the total National Forest(s) acreage. The 1968 Wild and Scenic Rivers Act calls for 

maintaining the free-flowing character of the designated rivers and protecting their "outstandingly 

remarkable values." Outstandingly remarkable values are values or opportunities in a river corridor that 

are directly related to the river and which are rare, unique or exemplary from a regional or national 

perspective. Table 24 displays a summary of the outstandingly remarkable values for rivers on the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. Motorized access within most wild and scenic river corridors is 

restricted to designated routes only. The Upper Deschutes and Metolius Rivers currently restrict 

motorized access for dispersed camping to designated sites only along much of the river corridors. 

Table 24. Deschutes and Ochoco wild and scenic rivers - outstandingly remarkable values

Wild and Scenic Rivers-Outstandingly 

Remarkable Values

Cultural

Fish

Geologic

Historic

Hydrology

Ecology

Botany

Traditional

Recreational

Scenic

Wildlife

Deschutes

Big Marsh X X

Crescent Creek X

Upper Deschutes X X X X X X X X 

Little Deschutes X X 

Metolius X X X X X X X X X X X

Whychus Creek X X X X X X 

Ochoco

Lower Crooked X X

Middle Deschutes X X X X X X X X X X X

N. Fork Crooked X X 

Wilderness Areas

On the Deschutes National Forest there are portions of five wilderness areas along the Cascade mountain 

crest (Mt. Jefferson, Three Sisters, Mt. Washington, Mt. Thielson, and Diamond Peak). On the Ochoco 

National Forest there are three wilderness areas that are entirely contained within the forest boundary 

(Mill Creek, Bridge Creek, and Black Canyon). Table 25 shows the National Forest System acres of each 

of the wilderness areas. Motorized and mechanized use is prohibited by law in all wilderness areas.

 

41 Squaw Creek has been renamed Whychus Creek by the U.S. Geologic Board of Names. Congressional Action must be taken to 

change the name of a Wild and Scenic River. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 99

Table 25. Acres of wilderness areas that are partially or entirely in the Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forests

Wilderness Total Acres Deschutes National 

Forest Acres

Ochoco National 

Forest Acres

Mt. Jefferson 107,008 32,734

Three Sisters 286,708 94,370

Mt. Washington 52,378 14,177

Mt. Thielson 61,281 7,107

Diamond Peak 54,185 34,413

Mill Creek 17,400 17,400

Bridge Creek 5,400 5,400

Black Canyon 13,400 13,400

Total 597,760 182,801 36,200

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area

The Oregon Cascades Recreation Area was established as part of the Oregon Wilderness Act of 1984 (P.L. 

98-328). It is an area exhibiting rich diversity in landform and wildlife, and also provides a variety of 

recreational experiences. The management goal for the Oregon Cascades Recreation Area is to conserve, 

protect, and manage in a substantially undeveloped condition, the unique values associated with the area, 

as well as to feature dispersed recreation opportunities. The emphasis for the area is to provide 

opportunity to enjoy scenic, wildlife, and recreation values in a setting that is not dominated by human 

activities, but where some motorized use could be permitted along with some recreation related activities. 

The Oregon Cascades Recreation Area covers an overall acreage of 157,000 acres, and portions of it are 

managed by four national forests: The Willamette, Umpqua, Deschutes, and Fremont-Winema National 

Forests. The portion of the recreation area adjoining the Deschutes National Forest contains a total of 

42,700 acres. This area is primarily managed for a recreation opportunity setting of semi-primitive 

motorized. There are no roads inside the recreation area, and geography and vegetation limit motorized 

access. There are approximately 15 miles of open road adjacent to the recreation area. Ten miles of open 

road runs along the northeast boundary adjacent to Crescent Lake and the Diamond Peak Wilderness area, 

and about 5 miles of open road are located along Windigo Pass. There are approximately 26 miles of trails 

open to hikers, horses, and mountain bikes. 

Newberry National Volcanic Monument 

Newberry National Volcanic Monument was created in November of 1990. Managed by the Deschutes 

National Forest, this monument provides an opportunity for visitors to see and explore a wide variety of 

unique volcanic features, and observe the volcanic landscape from different vista points. Newberry 

National Volcanic National Monument includes over 50,000 acres of lakes, lava flows, and geologic 

features. Two alpine lakes are located at the summit. There are trails open to hikers, horses, and mountain 

bikes, several campgrounds, and two resorts within the Monument. There are no motorized trails, and offhighway vehicle use is prohibited on and off of designated routes. Motorized access for dispersed 

camping is prohibited in the Flank and Caldera Management Zones within the Monument.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

100 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 26. Congressionally Designated Areas (CDA)

Forest CDA Acres % of CDA Acres 

Affected

Total 

CDA 

Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt 3 Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt 3 Acres

Open to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Deschutes

Wild and Scenic River Corridors 16,043 0 37% 0% 43,333

Newberry National Volcanic Monument 45,636 0 77% 0% 58,900

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area 42,894 0 100% 0% 42,895

Ochoco Wild and Scenic River Corridors 4,399 0 58% 0% 7,625

Total 108,972 0 71% 0% 152,753

Open to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping – 

Designated Sites Only

Deschutes Wild and Scenic River Corridors 11,842 27% 43,333

Open to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping – 

General Provisions

Deschutes

Wild and Scenic River Corridors 0 2,091 0 0% 5% 0% 43,333

Newberry National Volcanic Monument 0 45,628 0 0% 77% 0% 58,900

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area 0 444 0 0% 1% 0% 42,895

Ochoco Wild and Scenic River Corridors 0 484 0 0% 6% 0% 7,625

Total 0 48,647 0 0% 32% 0% 152,753

Open to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping – 

Special Provisions

Deschutes

Wild and Scenic River Corridors 0 1,418 3,509 0% 3% 8% 43,333

Newberry National Volcanic Monument 0 4 45,632 0% 0% 77% 58,900

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area 0 771 1,215 0% 2% 3% 42,895

Ochoco Wild and Scenic River Corridors 0 783 1,267 0% 10% 17% 7,625

Total 0 2,976 51,623 0% 2% 34% 152,753

Closed to Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Deschutes

Wild and Scenic River Corridors 4,251 16,782 10% 39% 43,333

Newberry National Volcanic Monument 13,265 13,267 23% 23% 58,900

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area 0 41,680 0% 97% 42,895

Ochoco Wild and Scenic River Corridors 1,817 4,949 24% 65% 7,625

Total 19,333 76,678 13% 50% 152,753

Closed to All Motorized Access

Deschutes Wild and Scenic River Corridors 11,198 26% 43,333

Ochoco Wild and Scenic River Corridors 1,409 18% 7,625

Total 12,607 44% 50,958

Closed to Motorized OHV Access Off Designated Routes

Deschutes Wild and Scenic River Corridors 15,236 9,555 35% 22% 43,333

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area 0 42,732 41,440 0% 100% 97% 42,895

Ochoco Wild and Scenic River Corridors 4,228 3,136 55% 41% 7,625

Total 19,464 55,423 54,131 90% 59% 57% 93,853

Closed to All OHV Access

Deschutes Newberry National Volcanic Monument 58,900 100% 58,900

Closed to All Motorized Access Off Designated Routes

Deschutes Wild and Scenic River Corridors 16,093 22,579 37% 52% 43,333

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area 42,732 1,454 99.62% 3% 42,895

Ochoco Wild and Scenic River Corridors 1,817 3,080 24% 40% 7,625

Total 60,642 27,113 64.61% 29% 93,853
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 101

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Cross-country travel, including motorized use for accessing dispersed campsites, could have adverse 

effects to soils and vegetation by crushing plants, and denuding areas which are then subject to erosion, 

and conducive to invasive plant infestations which crowd out native plant populations. In some areas, this 

could impact special botanical values and sensitive and endangered plant species. Scenic values are also 

impacted when cross-country travel creates wheel tracks or large areas cleared of vegetation in visually 

sensitive areas such as buttes, meadows, or stream banks. Extensive hill climbing and mud bogging also 

have adverse affects to scenic values. Dust, noise and exhaust fumes, along with sometimes excessive 

speed impact the recreation experience for those that prefer solitude, and a more non-motorized setting.

Conversely, the recreation experience for motorized users that prefer off-road motorized recreational 

opportunities would be diminished. Limiting motorized access to designated routes would not provide for 

more primitive off road recreation opportunities that many users prefer and the landscape settings along 

designated routes may be less appealing to those who favor motorized off road experiences. These areas 

also would not provide for off road exploration such as finding your own special places, and technical 

challenges. Permitting cross-country travel could affect traditional Native American values by impacting 

tribal gathering areas for roots, berries, etc. Cultural sites could be impacted by cross-country travel which 

may destroy or expose artifacts. Early American historical sites could be impacted by cross-country travel 

if historical buildings or remnants are dismantled to create obstacles or jumps for a more challenging 

motorized experience, or burned as firewood. Cross-country travel also affects wildlife values through 

disturbance, and fragmentation of habitat. Table 26 displays the acres affected by motorized access for 

dispersed camping in each alternative for each Congressionally Designated Area under each alternative.

Motorized Access Not Affected By the Proposed Action 

There are some past decisions about motorized access that would not be affected by the alternatives 

considered here. Past administrative decisions that have established seasons of use for specific areas (not 

including proposed Forest Plan amendments), designated motorized routes (roads and trails) or areas, or 

closed or decommissioned National Forest Transportation System roads would not be changed by any 

alternatives considered within the scope of this proposed action. The Travel Management Rule allows for 

some exclusion or exemptions for motorized access, such as over snow or water, as otherwise authorized 

by permit, and for administrative or emergency access that are not affected by this decision. 

The types of motorized access to congressionally designated areas not affected by the decision in this EIS 

are briefly summarized below. These previous decisions generally have a beneficial effect to these 

resources as they individually and cumulatively protect and enhance each area’s special values. 

Wild and Scenic Rivers

Within the Deschutes National Forest wild and scenic river corridors, there are approximately 11,000 

acres that would continue to be closed to all motorized access, and 31,000 acres that would continue to be 

closed to either all motorized or OHV cross-country travel and would not be affected by this decision. 

There are about 4,200 acres that would continue to be closed to motorized access for dispersed camping 

that would not be affected by this decision. In addition there are 11,844 acres that would continue to be 

open to designated sites only. 

Within the Ochoco National Forest wild and scenic river corridors, there are approximately 1,400 acres 

that would continue to be closed to all motorized access. Also, there are about 6,000 acres that would 

continue to be closed to cross-country travel and to motorized access for dispersed camping that would 

not be affected by this decision. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

102 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Wilderness

On both the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, there would be no adverse effects to the existing 

designated wilderness areas or portions of wilderness areas from any decisions considered here. It is 

expected that there would be a beneficial effect because there would be overall reduction of motorized 

access adjacent to wilderness areas and the potential for inadvertent access by motor vehicles would be 

reduced.

Newberry National Volcanic Monument

There are approximately 58,900 acres within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument that currently 

prohibit off-highway vehicle use on and off of designated routes, and approximately 13,265 acres within 

the Monument that are currently closed to motorized access for dispersed camping42. There would be no 

adverse effect on the Newberry National Volcanic Monument from decisions considered here. It is 

expected that there would be a beneficial effect because motorized access adjacent to the Monument 

would be reduced, and the potential for inadvertent access by motor vehicles off designated routes would 

be reduced. 

Alternative 1

Motorized Access off Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

The amount of motorized access currently allowed off of designated routes within the congressionally 

designated areas is less than 1 percent of the total acres on both Forests. 

Wild and Scenic Rivers

Within wild and scenic river corridors on the Deschutes National Forest there would continue to be 

15,236 acres, and on the Ochoco 4,228 acres closed to motorized cross-country travel. This area would 

continue to only allow OHVs on those trails and/or roads designated for their use. However, about 800 

acres on the Deschutes, and 170 acres on the Ochoco would continue to be open either year round or 

seasonally to all cross-country travel. New unauthorized motorized routes could be created and resource 

impacts would continue to occur with population growth and demand. This could adversely affect or 

diminish outstandingly remarkable values on rivers that currently do not have restrictions on crosscountry travel. 

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area 

Under Alternative 1, there would continue to be 42,732 acres that are closed to off-highway vehicle 

access off designated routes, and about 160 acres that would be open to cross-country travel. Within the 

area that is open to cross-country travel, new unauthorized motorized routes could be created and resource 

impacts would continue to occur with population growth and demand. This could adversely affect or 

diminish the recreation area values in areas where use is not already restricted.

 

42 Approximately 926 acres within the Flank Zone of the NNVM were incorrectly categorized as open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping. This was corrected in the Record of Decision.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 103

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Wild and Scenic Rivers

There are 43,333 acres within the Deschutes, and 7,625 acres within the Ochoco National Forests wild 

and scenic river corridors. Motorized access for dispersed camping would continue to be open or open 

seasonally on an estimated 16,043 acres on the Deschutes, and 4,399 acres on the Ochoco, or 

approximately 40 percent of the total designated wild and scenic river corridors. Dispersed camping along 

streams and/or rivers is extremely popular. In the Pacific Region, which includes the Deschutes National 

Forest, the growth rate for primitive camping has been projected to increase by 23 percent by 2020 (see 

recreation section). Within these areas, new motorized routes could be created to access new or existing 

campsites that may be more desirable, or to meet increased demand when popular campsites are occupied 

which could diminish outstandingly remarkable values on rivers that currently do not have restrictions on 

motorized access for dispersed camping. Resource impacts and conflicts among users would continue to 

occur, and increase with growing population and demand. On the Deschutes, 11,842 acres within the 

Upper Deschutes and Metolius River corridors, (approximately 23 percent of the total acres within wild 

and scenic river corridors), would continue to allow motorized access for dispersed camping to designated 

sites only. Allowing access to designated sites only would continue to have a beneficial effect on 

protecting river corridor values. on the Deschutes 11,198 acres, and on the Ochoco 1,408 acres would 

continue to be closed to all motorized access (approximately 25 percent); and 4,251 acres on the 

Deschutes, and 1,818 acres on the Ochoco would continue to be closed specifically to motorized access 

for dispersed camping (approximately 12 percent). These existing conditions would continue to have a 

beneficial effect by reducing resource impacts from motorized use, enhancing and protecting river values. 

Newberry National Volcanic Monument 

Under Alternative 1, approximately 45,635 acres or 77 percent of the Newberry National Volcanic 

Monument would continue be open to motorized access for dispersed camping and other dispersed 

recreation activities, while about 13,265 acres or 23 percent would remain closed to motorized access for

dispersed camping. Resource impacts would continue to occur, and increase with increasing population 

growth and demand which could have adverse effects on Monument values. 

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area 

Under Alternative 1, the entire recreation area, approximately 42,895 acres, would continue to be open to 

motorized access for dispersed camping. There are no roads inside the Oregon Cascades Recreation Area

on the Deschutes National Forest, and the terrain and vegetation limit access, so the area actually 

available for motorized access for dispersed camping currently is minimal. Within the acres that would 

continue to be open and accessible to motorized access for dispersed camping, it is expected that use 

should increase over time commensurate with population increases. New motorized routes could be 

created to access new or existing campsites. Resource impacts would continue to occur, and increase with 

increasing population growth and demand which could have adverse effects on the recreation area values. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

104 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Alternatives 2 and 3

Motorized Access off Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

There is no difference in the effects to cross-country travel between Alternatives 2 and 3. The following 

discussion provides specific acreages impacted under Alternatives 2 and 3 for each congressionally 

designated area. 

Wild and Scenic Rivers

On the Deschutes National Forest, there would continue to be about 9,500 acres closed to cross-country 

OHV travel, and about 6,400 acres closed to all motorized access off designated routes from the actions 

common to both Alternatives 2 and 3. On the Ochoco and Grassland there would continue to be about 

1,400 acres closed to all motorized access, about 3,100 acres closed to cross-country OHV travel, and 

about 1,200 acres that would be closed to all motorized access (including highway-legal vehicles) off 

designated routes. Approximately 800 acres currently open to cross-country travel would be closed to 

cross-country travel on the Crescent (13) and Big Marsh Creeks (787) on the Deschutes National Forest. 

On the Ochoco National Forest, approximately 170 acres currently open to cross-country travel would be 

closed to cross-country travel along the North Fork of the Crooked River. Eliminating cross-country 

travel would help protect and enhance the rivers’ outstandingly remarkable values by reducing resource 

impacts.

Newberry National Volcanic Monument 

Under Alternatives 2 and 3, the Newberry National Volcanic Monument would continue to be closed to all 

motorized OHV access; motorized access by highway-legal vehicles would be allowed only on 

designated routes for the purpose of accessing National Forest lands. 

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area

Alternatives 2 and 3 would eliminate cross-country travel within about 160 acres of the Oregon Cascades 

Recreation Area. This would reduce potential impacts from motorized cross-country travel and protect 

and enhance the unique values of the recreational area.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Under both Alternatives 2 and 3, it is expected that motorized access to an estimated 80 percent of 

existing dispersed camping opportunities on the Ochoco, and 70 percent on the Deschutes would still be 

available either through General or Special Provisions. Motorized access to sites more than 300 feet from 

a designated open road would no longer be accessible by motorized vehicles unless a route is designated 

in the future to access those sites. Existing camp sites would still be available for public use; however 

motorized access would be restricted. It is expected that those sites located within the General Provision

areas and the Special Provision areas would receive a higher level of use, and that demand should 

increase with increasing population growth. Restricting motorized access would reduce soil compaction 

and other resource impacts from motorized use which would have a beneficial effect on all 

congressionally designated areas by protecting and enhancing their values.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 105

Wild and Scenic Rivers

On the Deschutes National Forest, wild and scenic river corridors would be closed to motorized access for 

dispersed camping on about 16,800 acres or approximately 40 percent of the total wild and scenic river 

corridors. In addition, about 11,800 acres (about 27 percent) would allow motorized access to designated 

sites only, and about 1,400 acres (about 3 percent) would be open either year round or seasonally to 

motorized access for dispersed camping under the Special Provisions. On the Ochoco National Forest 

wild and scenic river corridors would be closed to motorized access for dispersed camping on about 6,358 

acres (approximately 83 percent) of the total wild and scenic river corridors. In addition, 781 acres, or 

about 10 percent would be open either year-round or seasonally to motorized access for dispersed 

camping under the Special Provisions. The areas under Special Provisions would provide for motorized 

access to dispersed camping to designated, defined, or existing campsites only (see definition and 

illustration in chapter 2). 

Newberry National Volcanic Monument 

Actions common to Alternatives 2 and 3 would include two acres in the Monument that would be 

proposed closed to motorized access for dispersed camping, and four acres that would be open to 

motorized access for dispersed camping under Special Provisions. These actions would protect and 

enhance Monument values by reducing motorized resource impacts.

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area

Under both action alternatives, nearly 42,000 acres (approximately 97 percent) would be closed to 

motorized access for dispersed camping, and 771 acres would be open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping with Special Provisions. There are no roads inside the Recreation Area on the Deschutes 

National Forest, and the terrain and vegetation limit access, so the area actually available for motorized 

access for dispersed camping currently is minimal. There are approximately 15 miles of open road 

adjacent to the Recreation Area within the Deschutes National Forest. The 771 acres that remain open 

under Special Provisions would continue to provide motorized access for dispersed camping opportunities 

to most of the area currently used for that purpose. Closing the 41,682 acres to motorized access for 

dispersed camping, and restricting motorized access to designated, defined, or existing sites on the 771 

remaining acres would have a beneficial effect, by protecting and enhancing the Recreation Area’s unique 

values.

Alternative 2 

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Wild and Scenic Rivers 

In addition to the actions common to Alternatives 2 and 3, on the Deschutes National Forest, Alternative 2 

would allow motorized access to 2,091 acres that would be open, or open seasonally for dispersed 

camping under the General Provisions. Within these areas, new motorized routes could be created to 

access new or existing campsites. In addition, 1,418 acres would continue to be open either year round or 

seasonally to motorized access for dispersed camping with Special Provisions. On the Ochoco National 

Forest and Grassland, Alternative 2 would allow motorized access for dispersed camping to about 484 

acres year round or seasonally under General Provisions, and approximately 783 acres would continue to 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

106 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

be open either year round or seasonally to motorized access for dispersed camping with Special 

Provisions. Motorized access for dispersed camping under General Provisions would not be restricted to 

existing, designated, or defined dispersed sites, and consequently there would be a greater potential for 

new sites and therefore new motorized access routes to be created within the General Provision areas 

when compared with the Special Provision areas. Although General Provisions would improve protection 

to wild and scenic river values; over time, this would have greater potential resource impact to and less 

protection for wild and scenic river values than Alternative 3.

Newberry National Volcanic Monument 

In addition to the actions common under Alternatives 2 and 3, there would continue to be 45,628 acres, or 

approximately 77 percent of the Monument open to motorized access for dispersed camping under the 

General Provisions (see Chapter 2 for definitions). Since more acres would be open to motorized access 

for dispersed camping within the 300 feet corridor allowed under the General Provisions, it is anticipated 

there would be additional motorized routes created to access new or existing campsites. Although 

immeasurable; over time, this would have a greater resource impact to and less protection for Monument 

values than Alternative 3.

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area

In addition to the actions common under Alternatives 2 and 3, there would be 444 acres, or approximately 

one percent of the Recreation Area that would be open to motorized access for dispersed camping under 

the General Provisions. Since 99 percent of the area would continue to closed, impacts from motorized 

access for dispersed camping would be concentrated on those acres that are open. Since these acres would 

be open to motorized access for dispersed camping within the General Provisions 300 foot corridor, it is 

anticipated there would be additional motorized routes created to access new or existing campsites. 

Although immeasurable; over time, this would have a greater resource impact to and less protection for 

the Recreation Area’s values, than Alternative 3.

Alternative 3

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

In all of the congressionally designated areas listed below, in addition to the effects common to 

Alternatives 2 and 3, Alternative 3 would have the greatest affect on motorized access for dispersed 

camping. It would restrict motorized use to existing, defined, or designated campsites on approximately 

51,623 acres, or roughly 34 percent of the total acres. Alternative 2 would allow motorized access for 

dispersed camping under the General Provisions on 48,647 acres or 32 percent of the total acres. Although 

immeasurable, it is anticipated that Alternative 3 would reduce resource impacts since new motorized 

routes to access campsites would be discouraged. This alternative would put additional demand on those 

sites that can be accessed under the special provisions, especially in areas heavily used for dispersed 

camping.

Wild and Scenic Rivers

In addition to the actions common under Alternatives 2 and 3, Alternative 3 would restrict motorized 

access for dispersed camping to existing, designated, or defined sites in riparian and upland areas (Special 

Provision conditions would apply to all motorized access for dispersed camping adjacent to designated 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 107

open roads). This would change the designation of 2,091 acres on the Deschutes, and 484 acres on the 

Ochoco from General Provisions in Alternative 2, to Special Provisions, either year round, or seasonally. 

This alternative would provide the most protection to and enhancement of wild and scenic river 

outstandingly remarkable values by reducing the resource impacts from motorized use.

Newberry National Volcanic Monument

In addition to the actions common to Alternatives 2 and 3, Alternative 3 would restrict motorized access 

for dispersed camping to existing, designated, or defined sites in riparian and upland areas (Special 

Provision conditions would apply to all motorized access for dispersed camping adjacent to designated 

open roads). This would change the designation of 45,628 acres from General Provisions in Alternative 2, 

to Special Provisions, either year round, or seasonally. 

Oregon Cascades Recreation Area

In addition to the actions common to Alternatives 2 and 3, Alternative 3 would restrict motorized access 

for dispersed camping to existing, designated, or defined sites in riparian and upland areas (Special 

Provision conditions would apply to all motorized access for dispersed camping adjacent to designated 

open roads). This would change the designation of 444 acres from General Provisions in Alternative 2, to 

Special Provisions, either year round, or seasonally. 

Conclusion

The potential effects to congressionally designated areas from the impacts of cross-country travel, and 

motorized access for dispersed camping would be reduced under both Alternatives 2 and 3. Alternative 3 

provides the highest level of protection to these areas by restricting motorized access to dispersed

camping only to designated, defined, or existing sites. 

Social and Economic Analysis 

Executive Summary

Social and economic elements, which are interrelated and interdependent with ecological elements, 

comprise the human dimension component of the ecosystem. The purpose of this social and economic 

analysis is to inform the decision-making process through a discussion of the current social and economic 

contributions of various types of recreational activities and the potential impacts to the public from the 

alternatives. The implications of resource management decisions for the Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forests to the social and economic uses and values are of interest to residents and users of the area. These 

people have made their interests known through organized groups and personal efforts. It is these 

interests, identified through public involvement and comments, which have helped to articulate the social 

attitudes, beliefs, and values that affect the people that enjoy the two National Forests and Grassland. 

The primary area potentially affected by the proposed actions considered in this FEIS are a four-county 

area that includes Deschutes, Crook, Jefferson, and Klamath Counties. The population growth of these 

areas is in the top rankings for Oregon. This population growth can be expected to increase demands for 

recreation opportunities, and increase impacts on National Forest and Grassland facilities and 

infrastructures such as travel routes. The degree to which this increase will affect these resources is not 

predictable. However, the rates of growth indicate potential increases in use that would override any 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

108 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

potential impacts as a result of the changes in patterns and locations of motorized uses described in this 

Environmental Impact Statement. The population of this area, with the exception of the population of 

Jefferson County, is generally aging when compared with previous census years, is increasingly female, 

and generally white with mid-level incomes. Low income and minority populations in the area tend to be 

younger, with higher concentrations in Jefferson, Klamath, and Crook Counties than in Deschutes County. 

Based on this analysis, there are no anticipated economic or disparate impacts expected to low income, 

minority, or disabled populations. 

Recreation activities classified as primarily non-motorized presently represent both the dominant 

recreational uses on the two National Forests and economic contributions to the recreation economy of 

the region. Overall, contributions and trends to the local economy from either motorized or non-motorized 

uses are unlikely to measurably change as a result of any of the alternatives. Although recreation and 

tourism are becoming a more important part of the economic sector, data suggests that the importance of 

National Forest System lands as an ecological setting is the most important contribution to recreation and 

tourism economy. Data also suggests that, for the two-forest area, future job-related recreation economic 

contributions to the communities are higher for non-motorized uses than for motorized uses.

For all alternatives, there would be continued motorized access on more than 8,300 miles of existing open 

designated roads and trails. These roads and motorized trails provide access within one-half mile of more 

than 80 percent of the two Forests. This access provides opportunities for people who value primitive 

motorized exploration and discovery of areas associated with open designated routes on low-use roads or 

designated motorized trails and also provides opportunities for people who value motorized access on the 

road system for access between neighborhoods.

Alternative 1 would continue to have approximately 39 percent of the Deschutes and 60 percent of the 

Ochoco National Forests that does not prohibit cross-country travel. This provides the most area 

potentially available to cross-country travel of the three alternatives, and therefore the most motorized 

opportunities of the three alternatives for people that value undesignated motorized off-road or trail 

experiences or who believe that they have a need or right to cross-country travel and maintain what they 

believe to be primarily unregulated motorized access. People that value using motorized trails believe 

they would have more recreational opportunities, experience a lesser sense of crowding and greater 

opportunity to experience solitude because of their ability to use designated motorized trails, unauthorized 

trails, and areas that are not currently closed to cross-country travel. 

Alternative 1 would continue to offer primary or exclusive non-motorized access on approximately 61 

percent of the Deschutes and 40 percent of the Ochoco NF. This alternative would provide the least 

amount of area closed to cross-country travel of the three alternatives and thus provide the least amount of 

opportunities of any of the alternatives to people who value peace and quiet away from the sights and 

sounds of motorized uses. Potential for conflicts for people who believe they cannot enjoy peace and 

quiet when there is evidence of motorized use would continue to increase with anticipated increases in 

motorized uses in areas that currently are not closed to cross-country travel. There would be an increased 

potential for displacement of people with lower tolerances for conflict from where cross-country travel is 

occurring to areas of more exclusive non-motorized uses. This could reduce their present and future 

opportunities for solitude, peace and quiet, and potentially increase crowding in areas of exclusive nonmotorized use.

Currently, approximately 72 percent of the Deschutes and 69 percent of the Ochoco National Forest

allows motorized access for dispersed camping year round or seasonally. Less than 1 percent of areas 

adjacent to water limit motorized access for dispersed camping to designated sites only. Alternative 1 

provides the most opportunities of the three alternatives to people who prefer a motorized camping 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 109

opportunity away from existing designated roads and people who prefer motorized access for dispersed 

camping within riparian areas.

People have varying beliefs about the amount of regulation of motorized access. Signing areas as “closed 

to motorized access” along with travel management maps would continue to be the primary mechanism of 

informing people about where motorized access is allowed in Alternative 1. Current trends indicating 

increasing localized area closures to cross-country travel because resource or social conflicts could be in 

conflict with beliefs of largely unregulated motorized access. The presence of signs posting areas closed 

to various types of motorized access and potential difficulty of predicting where cross-country travel

would be allowed is likely to be the highest in this alternative. There would be no change to motorized 

access off or on designated roads or for motorized access for dispersed camping within wildland-urban 

interface areas. Adjacent landowners believe potential disturbance and conflicts from unregulated 

motorized access would be highest of the three alternatives.

If OHV users choose to change from cross-country travel to using designated roads and trails in a 

meaningful way, Alternatives 2 and 3 would tend to result in more concentrated uses on motorized trails 

and roads than Alternative 1. In that case, there could could be a greater likelyhood that there would be an

increase in crowds, thus disturbance to motorized users who value and seek solitude. Users who value 

peace and quiet away from the sights and sounds of motorized uses would experience less conflict and 

likely less potential for displacement from valued areas because of motorized uses. Only about 1 percent 

of the two National Forests would be available to cross-country travel. This would eliminate most 

opportunities on the two Forests for people that value undesignated motorized off-road or trail access or 

who believe that they have a need or right to travel off of designated routes and to maintain what they 

believe to be primarily unregulated motorized access. People that value and use designated motorized 

routes and areas could experience a greater sense of crowding on those routes and within those areas and 

have a reduced opportunity for solitude because of the amount of areas closed to cross-country travel as a 

result of Alternatives 2 and 3. Depending upon personal tolerance for conflict, some people may be 

displaced from preferred areas. Alternatives 2 and 3 could result in displacement of people that prefer 

unregulated motorized access to areas that allow for cross-country travel.

Alternatives 2 and 3 would result in about a 46 percent reduction on the Deschutes and a 52 percent 

reduction in the amount of acres available to motorized access for dispersed camping when compared to

Alternative 1. This would reduce opportunities when compared with Alternative 1 for people who prefer 

primitive motorized access for dispersed camping more than 300 feet from an open designated route. 

However, samples of the dispersed site inventory, while not comprehensive, indicate 70-80 percent of all 

dispersed sites with motorized access are within 300 feet of an open designated route or area. Establishing 

General Provisions for motorized access for dispersed camping on approximately 22 percent of the 

Deschutes and nine percent of the Ochoco, and Special Provisions on about four percent of the Deschutes 

and seven percent of the Ochoco and limiting motorized access to within 300 feet of open designated 

roads would continue to provide motorized access for dispersed camping to most existing known sites. It 

would also offer some opportunities in areas previously closed to motorized access for dispersed camping 

for people who prefer primitive camping with motor vehicles. Alternatives 2 and 3 would tend to reduce 

conflicts by changing the conditions for motorized access on all of the area available for motorized access 

for dispersed camping. 

Motorized mixed-use would be prohibited on less than one percent of the existing designated road system. 

This would, when compared with Alternative 1, potentially slightly reduce conflicts for people that prefer 

driving for pleasure or utilitarian purposes in highway-legal vehicles on National Forest Transportation 

System roads and reduce opportunities for people who prefer driving non-highway-legal on National 

Forest Transportation System roads for pleasure or utilitarian purposes. Alternatives 2 and 3 would reduce 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

110 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

the amount of cross-country travel within the wildland-urban interface and reduce the area available for 

motorized access for dispersed camping. This would reduce opportunities for people who value 

unregulated motorized access from their homes or property to public lands and also reduce potential 

disturbance and conflicts that adjacent landowners believe are from unregulated motorized access

Alternative 3 would change approximately 21 percent of the Deschutes and seven percent of all open 

routes with motorized access for dispersed camping from General to Special Provisions. This would 

reduce opportunities for motorized access for dispersed camping in previously unused or lightly used 

areas and would eliminate opportunities for motorized access for dispersed camping in Inventoried 

Roadless Areas. This would reduce opportunities for people who value discovery and solitude with 

motorized access for dispersed camping, but would reduce potential for conflicts with those who value 

peace and quiet away from sights, sounds, and evidence of motorized uses. 

Alternative 2 and 3 would have the regulations for motorized access concentrated in one place – the 

Motor Vehicle Use Map. Alternative 1 would continue to have a combination of regulations affecting 

motorized vehicle use and rely primarily on physical on-site signing. 

Affected Environment

This section will provide a backdrop of the area by describing the people living in and visiting the area, 

how they are currently using the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, especially for recreation, and 

provide an overview of the economic makeup of the counties and the communities that may be potentially 

affected by the decisions in this EIS. 

Overview

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland cover just over two 

million acres and include lands within ten Oregon counties. Table 27 displays the amount of National 

Forest and Grassland System lands within each county.

Table 27. Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and county lands

County 

Deschutes and 

Ochoco National 

Forest Acresa

Total County Acres

% County Lands

within Deschutes 

and Ochoco 

National Forest

% Deschutes and 

Ochoco National 

Forest Lands within 

County

Deschutes 989,366 1,955,129 51% 42%

Crook 426,216 1,912,040 22% 18%

Jefferson 274,116 1,146,346 24% 12%

Klamath 285,492 3,926,806 7% 12%

Lake 173,936 5,349,147 3% 7%

Wheeler 129,816 1,097,712 12% 6%

Grant 57,841 2,898,559 2% 2%

Lane 1,986 2,955,251 0% 1%

Douglas 214 3,244,790 0% 0%

Linn 879 1,478,459 0% 0%

a - From Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest geospatial data base

The primary area affected by the proposed action lies mostly within four counties east of the Cascades in 

Central Oregon. These are Deschutes, Crook, Jefferson, and Klamath counties. Deschutes, Crook, and 

Jefferson counties are generally understood to comprise Central Oregon and function as an economic 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 111

region. Although Klamath County is not considered a major part of the Central Oregon economic region, 

Deschutes National Forest System lands and the uses that occur in and around those lands are becoming 

of increasing social and economic importance to the County. Lake, Grant, Douglas, Lane, Linn and 

Wheeler Counties are not discussed in detail in this analysis because of the relatively small percentage of 

the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest System lands that lie within those counties. 

Three of the four primary counties – Crook, Jefferson, and Klamath - are mostly rural. The economies of 

all of these counties are based primarily on ranching and agriculture, although recreation and tourism is 

becoming a growing sector in all of these economies. The economy of Deschutes County is relatively 

dominant over the other three counties, largely due to the growth and demographics of the population of 

the Bend-Redmond area. All of the counties are distinguished by a vibrant metropolitan area that focuses 

population growth, and all have seen or are undergoing major shifts in their economies from ranching, 

agricultural and forest land use to resort and residential uses in the past ten years. Below is a brief 

description of each of the counties in the study area that was published on the Oregon Blue Book website

in 2009.

43 

Deschutes County

Deschutes County encompasses 3,055 square miles and is located in the central portion of the state. It is 

bounded by Jefferson County to the north, Crook County to the east, Klamath and Lake Counties to the 

south, and Lane and Linn counties to the west. The county seat is located in the city of Bend. 

Geographically, the county includes portions of the Cascade Mountains and the central high desert 

plateau. The Bend-Redmond urban block is in the center of the county and the central Cascade Mountains 

dominate the western portion of the county. The edge of the high desert Columbia Plateau and the Great 

Basin and Range border the county to the east. Principal industries in the county are tourism, timber, and 

agriculture, chiefly cattle and potatoes. Destination resorts have also become an economic factor in the 

region. The Mount Bachelor ski area and High Desert Museum add to the tourism-based economy in the 

county as well. The first county census taken in 1920 enumerated a population of 9,622 inhabitants. 

Deschutes County has experienced the most rapid growth of any county of the state in recent years. The 

2000 population of 115,367 was a 53.91 percent increase over 1990. The 2006 population of 152,615 

represented an increase of 32.3 percent over 2000. 

Crook County

Crook County is situated in the geographic center of Oregon. It has been reduced from its original size of 

8,600 square miles to 2,991 square miles by the creation of Jefferson County in 1914 and Deschutes 

County in 1916. The current boundaries were established in 1927. Crook County is bounded by Jefferson 

and Wheeler Counties to the north, Grant and Harney Counties to the east, and Deschutes County to the 

south and west. 

The first census in 1890 showed a population of 3,24444. The last several censuses have shown an 

increase in inhabitants with the 2006 population of 24,525 representing a 27.9 percent increase from 

2000. The fast pace of growth in the nearby Bend-Redmond area has played a role in the rising population 

of Crook County.

 

43 http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/county/cpmultnomahhome.html. 

44 The website also referenced that none of the Native American Indian Tribes were included in this original census.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

112 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

The economy of the county is based on agriculture and forestry. Agriculture is supported by the 

development of irrigation districts, which permits the raising of hay, grain, mint, potatoes, and seed. 

Range and forest lands allow grazing for a sizable livestock industry. The Ochoco National Forest's stand 

of ponderosa pine is the main source of lumber. As the lumber industry suffers with restricted log cutting, 

tourism and recreation are helping to strengthen the economy. 

Jefferson County

Jefferson County is bounded on the north by Wasco County, on the east by Wheeler and Crook Counties, 

on the south by Deschutes County, and on the west by Linn and Marion Counties. The county 

encompasses 1791 square miles. The county's population at its first federal census in 1920 was 3,211. The 

2000 population of 19,009 represented a 39 percent increase from 1990.

Principle industries are agriculture, forest products, and recreation. The fertile North Unit Irrigation 

District in the central part of the county produces seed, potatoes, hay, and mint. The eastern part of the 

county has dry wheat farming and grazing land for cattle, and the western part is timber country. Warm 

Springs Forest Product Industries and Kah-Nee Ta Vacation Resort, owned by the Confederated Tribes of 

the Warm Springs Reservation, provide many jobs in the area. The reservation is located on portions of 

land in four counties including 236,082 acres in the northwestern corner of Jefferson County. 

Klamath County

Klamath County was established on October 17, 1882. It was created from the western part of Lake 

County and named after a tribe of Indians which white travelers called the Klamath, also spelled 

Clammite. Klamath County is situated in south central Oregon. The county is bounded on the south by 

California, on the east by Lake County, on the north by Deschutes County, and on the west by Jackson 

and Douglas Counties. The county, Oregon's fourth largest, has 6,135 square miles. Klamath Falls is the 

county seat. The 1890 census cited a population of 2,444. Since then the county has experienced steady 

growth. The 2000 population of 63,775 represented a 10.52 percent increase from 1990.

Historically, Klamath County's economy has been based on timber and agriculture. Three-fourths of the 

county is forested; however, over half of it is publicly owned. The large stands of timber have resulted in 

the development of wood products industries in the county. In spite of the altitude, short growing season, 

low rainfall, and cold winters, agricultural plays an important role in the local economy. Excellent soil, 

adequate water for irrigation, extensive sunshine, and the introduction of cash crops such as potatoes and 

feed barley contribute to the agricultural industry. There is the potential to develop geothermal energy 

through the exploitation of the geothermal water found in many parts of the county. The many lakes and 

mountains, including Crater Lake National Park, attract tourists and recreational visitors to the county.

The Klamath Indian Tribe and Reservation add to the county's history. The Klamath Reservation was 

established in 1864 by treaty and covered about fifty square miles of land east and northeast of Klamath 

Falls. The federal government's policy of termination and assimilation resulted in the tribe being 

abolished in 1961. However, in 1975 a fully functioning tribal government was reestablished, and the 

Klamath Tribe was recognized by the federal government in 1986. The 2000 census showed the tribe to 

consist of 2,632 members.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 113

Population Characteristics

Population characteristics; in particular population structure; including size, composition, density, and 

population dynamics that show how the structure of the population changes over time; is useful in 

identifying the potential effects and consequences of proposed activities on the social environment. 

Important population characteristics include age, gender, race, and ethnicity. 

Increases in population can increase user demands on existing travel routes, access and recreation 

opportunities (Cordell and Overdevest 2001). When the increase is primarily through migration into an 

area, it can also increase demand for different combinations of uses and the level of those uses. For 

example, more users can result in conflicts among people with similar values due to crowding. Population 

changes and changes in community values may lead to conflicts over national forest uses, motorized 

access, recreation activities, and other values associated with resource management activities. People with 

different values often have different attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors that clash and lead to conflict. 

Population Trends and Projections 45

From 1970 to 2006 population within the four county area grew by 157,812 people, a 158 percent 

increase in population. At an annual rate, this represents an increase of 2.7 percent (see Figure 66). This 

population growth is not generally impacted by national recessions. Over the last 36 years population 

growth in the four county area has outpaced Oregon and the nation (see Figure 7).

Figure 6. Population trends

45 Population trends described below have been aggregated for the four county area by Headwaters Economics. A full copy of the 

aggregated report is available upon request. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

114 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 7. Population comparison

Table 28 and Table 29 are from the Economic Development for Central Oregon website,46 and reflect the 

actual population of the Counties and Cities in just the Tri- County area (Crook, Jefferson and Deschutes 

Counties, not including Klamath County) between 1990 and 2005 and the projected Tri-County and 

Oregon State Growth Rates between 2000 and 2008. Although this data is not directly comparable to 

those data gathered for the U.S. Census, it provides another piece of information related to the robust 

growth in the core tri-county area of central Oregon. This data indicates the population growth rate in the 

13-year period from 1990-2007 was approximately 33 percent. The growth rate during the period from 

2000 – 2007 was 35.9 percent. The percent change from 2007 – 2008 was down by about 3.6 percent to 

just over 32 percent. 

Table 28. Actual population of counties and cities in tri-county area 1990-2005 

Actual 

Counties and Cities 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000* 1995 1990*

Crook County 21,150 20,650 20,300 20,200 19,850 19,182 15,700 14,111

Prineville 9,082 8,640 8,500 8,150 7,750 7,356 8,205 5,355

Unincorporated 12,068 12,010 11,800 12,050 12,100 11,826 9,947 8,756

Deschutes County 143,481 135,450 130,500 126,500 122,050 115,367 89,500 74,958

Bend 70,328 65,210 62,900 57,750 55,080 52,029 29,425 20,469

Redmond 21,110 18,100 17,450 16,110 14,960 13,481 9,650 7,163

Sisters 1,706 1,490 1,430 1,080 960 959 765 679

Unincorporated 50,337 50,650 48,720 51,560 51,050 48,898 49,660 46,647

Jefferson County 20,600 20,250 19,900 19,850 19,400 19,009 15,400 13,676

Culver 1,019 850 840 840 800 802 600 570

Madras 5,592 5,430 5,370 5,290 5,200 5,078 4,290 3,443

Metolius 804 790 780 770 660 635 540 450

Warm Springs NA NA NA NA NA 5,727 NA NA

Unincorporated 13,185 13,180 12,910 12,950 12,740 6,767 9,905 9,213

Total Area Population 185,231 176,350 170,700 166,550 161,300 153,558 120,600 102,745

 

46 http://www.edcoinfo.com 

Population Comparison

-

258

176

147

-

50

100

150

200

250

300

1970 1973 1976 1979 1982 1985 1988 1991 1994 1997 2000 2003 2006

Population (Index 1970=100)

National Recessions 4 County Aggregation

Oregon United States
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 115

Table 29. Tri county and State growth rates 2000-2008 

County 2000 2005 2007 2008 2000-07 

% Growth

2007-08 Change 

(% Growth)

Tri County Area 153,558 185,240 208,725 216,310 35.9% 7,585 (3.6%)

Oregon 3,436,750 3,631,440 3,745,455 3,791,075 9.0% 45,620 (1.2%)

U.S. 282,194,308 295,895,897 301,621,157 303,824,640 6.9% 220,349 (0.7%)

Sources: Portland State University Center for Population Research; U.S. Census Bureau; estimates are for July of each year.

Overall, when combining the data on population growth from across the four county area, this reflects a 

robust, even at times explosive, population growth has changed the character of the area and the attitudes,

beliefs, and values that many of the residents take toward recreation and public land uses.

Age, Gender, and Racial Composition and Poverty Levels

Components of population structure such as gender, age, race, and ethnicity are often predictors of 

attitudes, beliefs, and values about travel management, forest management, and forest use. For example, 

people of different generations often have different values that influence their attitudes and beliefs. 

People’s cultural and ethnic backgrounds may also affect how they perceive, react, or be affected by 

motorized access on public lands. Understanding the racial composition and poverty characteristics of the 

area also helps to identify whether there are environmental justice concerns. Environmental Justice is 

defined at the end of chapter 3 of this EIS. The data to support the summary conclusions in that section is 

presented here. 

Age and Gender

There is significant discussion in the literature about the aging population in the United States and the 

potential impacts that this change may have on patterns of forest use as well as attitudes, beliefs, and 

values toward forest use. Research indicates that popular retirement communities include natural 

amenities, such as scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, and are often in proximity to national 

forests and national parks (Cordell and Overdevest 2001). The impact of retirement aged people on their 

community is often complex; it includes bringing in other sources of income and the desire for different 

types of recreation and modes of access. An aging population also brings with it a change in the type of 

recreation activities, degree of mobility, and amount and timing of leisure time spent in recreational or 

other pursuits involving motorized access within the National Forests and Grassland. 

The population in the four-county area has, on average, gotten older since 1990. The median age in 2000 

for the four-county area is 38.0 years, up from 35.2 years in 1990. This is slightly higher than either the 

state or national median age, and reflects the influx of retirement aged people into the Central Oregon 

Area. In the four-county region, Crook County has a higher median age than the average, while Jefferson 

County has a lower median age that is closer to that of 1990. Both Deschutes and Klamath Counties 

reflect the median age of 38 years.47 

Total Population in 2000 was 217,333 people, up 35 percent from 160,447 in 1990. In this geographic 

region, the population growth has not generally been impacted by national recessions during that time 

period. The age group that has grown the fastest, as a share of total, is 50 to 54 years, up 7,895 people. 

Their total rose by 2.4 percent. The largest age category is 45 to 49 years old (17,274 people or 7.9 

percent of the total). 

 

47 From EPS Report on Central Oregon “A Profile of Environmental Justice” (August 14, 2009)
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

116 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Overall, the population is fairly evenly split between males and females, with slightly more males than 

females under 20. That trend changes beginning with the baby boomers, and for those age 65 and over, 

females are in a distinct majority. (See Table 30) 

Table 30. Population by age and gender within the four county area

Population by Age and Gender

Total Under 20 years 40 - 54 (Baby 

Boom in 2000) 65 years and over Median 

Age

Density 

(Pop. per 

 Number Number Share Number Share Number Share sq. mi.)

Total Population 

2000 217,333 61,222 28% 49,989 23% 29,790 14% 38.0 15.8 

1990 160,447 46,966 29% 29,577 18% 22,576 14% 35.2 11.7 

10 Year 

Change 56,886 14,256 -1% 20,412 5% 7,214 0% 2.8 4.1 

10 Year % 

Change 35% 30% 69% 32% 8% 35%

2000 Gender Breakout 

Male 108,380 31,514 29% 24,714 23% 13,744 13% 37.1 

Female 108,953 29,708 27% 25,275 23% 16,046 15% 38.8 

Male/Female 

Split 50% / 50% 51% / 49% 49% / 51% 46% / 54% 

Racial and Ethnic Composition

Census data shows that, overall, the four-county area has 90 percent of its population classified as white. 

This is about three percent higher than the state-wide percentage, and 15 percent higher than the national 

percentage. The second largest racial group is American Indians; although the combined total of people 

who classified themselves as either two or more undefined races or some other race not listed in the 

options provided in the census report had a greater combined percentage than did American Indians 

(Table 31). Jefferson County has the highest percentage of people that classified themselves as something 

other than white alone, and the highest percentage of American Indians. 

Table 31. Population by race in the region

Deschutes Crook Jefferson Klamath Region Oregon United States

White alone 109,423 17,830 13,113 55,695 196,061 2,961,623 211,460,626

Black or African American alone 222 8 50 404 684 55,662 34,658,190

American Indian alone 956 250 2,981 2,672 6,859 45,211 2,475,956

Asian alone 849 82 57 512 1,500 101,350 10,242,998

Native Hawaiian and Oth.Pacific Is. alone 85 6 42 79 212 7,976 398,835

Some other race 1,574 731 2,152 2,200 6,657 144,832 15,359,073

Two or more races 2,258 275 614 2,213 5,360 104,745 6,826,228

All Races 115,367 19,182 19,009 63,775 217,333 3,421,399 281,421,906

Percent of Total

White alone 95% 93% 69% 87% 90% 87% 75%

Black or African American alone 0% 0% 0% 1% 0% 2% 12%

American Indian alone 1% 1% 16% 4% 3% 1% 1%

Asian alone 1% 0% 0% 1% 1% 3% 4%

Native Hawaiian and Oth. Pacific Is. alone 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0% 0%

Some other race 1% 4% 11% 3% 3% 4% 5%

Two or more races 2% 1% 3% 3% 2% 3% 2%

Hispanics as an ethnic group, (which could be included in any of the race classifications) represent about 

six percent of the total population across the four-county Central Oregon region. In the state of Oregon, 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 117

eight percent of the population is Hispanic or Latino. (See Table 32) This percentage is notably different 

by county, with Jefferson County showing a Hispanic population of more than 17 percent, while 

Deschutes County shows a Hispanic population of around four percent. Overall, Jefferson County has the 

most diverse racial and ethnic population mix in the region, and also higher than the state and country. 

Klamath County is fairly reflective of the state-wide percentages for racial and ethnic diversity, while 

Deschutes and Crook both rank lower than either state or national percentages.

Table 32. Hispanic population composition

Geography Hispanic Pop. % of Total Pop.

Deschutes, OR 4,304 4%

Crook, OR 1,082 6%

Jefferson, OR 3,372 18%

Klamath, OR 4,961 8%

Region 13,719 6%

Oregon 275,314 8%

United States 35,305,818 13%

Poverty Levels

Poverty levels for the four-county area based on 2007 projections from the U.S. Census, show Jefferson 

and Klamath counties with the highest poverty rates (Table 33). These rates are higher than the state 

average of 13 percent. Crook County is slightly below the state-wide average, while Deschutes County is 

significantly lower than the state-wide average and the other counties in the area. 

Table 33. Poverty by Countya

County % of Population 

at or below Poverty Level

Deschutes 8.9%

Jefferson 18.8%

Crook 12.8%

Klamath 15.7%

a - Source U.S. Census Bureau: State and County QuickFacts. Data derived from Population Estimates, Census of Population and 

Housing, Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates, State and County Housing Unit Estimates, County Business Patterns, 

Nonemployer Statistics, Economic Census, Survey of Business Owners, Building Permits, Consolidated Federal Funds Report 

Last Revised: Tuesday, 05-May-2009 08:36:27 EDT

People with Disabilities

In the 2000 Census survey, people were defined as having a disability if one or more of the following 

conditions were true:

• They were aged five or older and responded “yes” to a sensory, physical, mental, or self-care 

disability.

• They were aged 16 years or older and responded “yes” to a disability affecting going outside the 

home. 

• They were between the ages of 16 and 64 and responded “yes” to an employment disability.

Except for Deschutes County, all of the counties within which the two Forests and Grassland lie have 

slightly higher than the statewide average (31 percent) and substantially higher than the national average 

(19 percent) of total population that are classified as people with disabilities. Statewide, in Oregon, Curry 

County ranks the highest percentage of population at 49 percent, with Benton County the lowest 

percentage of population at 22 percent. Of the four primary counties evaluated, Klamath and Crook 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

118 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Counties have the highest percentage of populations of people with disabilities, although Deschutes 

County has the highest total population of people with disabilities. These numbers may be attributed, in 

part, to the increase in older populations in the four-county area since 1990, represented by an increase in 

the number of retirees who have moved to the Bend area. 

Table 34. People with Disabilities - Percent of Population

Total disabilities 

Total 

population: 

Total

% with 

disability

Deschutes 31,862 115,367 28

Crook 7,172 19,182 37

Jefferson 5,901 19,009 31

Klamath 24,337 63,775 38

State Total 1,069,450 3,421,399 31

Population Characteristics of OHV Users

This section briefly describes the population characteristics of OHV users in the Pacific Region (Oregon, 

Washington, and California), Oregon, and the local Central Oregon area based on a variety of sources. 

Population Characteristics of OHV Users in the Pacific Region

In the Pacific Region (Washington, Oregon, and California), the rate of OHV participation (18.7 percent) 

is nearly the same as the national rate. The 6.9 million OHV users living in the Pacific region are about 16 

percent of the national total. Similar to other regions, participation declines with age. People under age 30 

are about three times more likely to participate as those over 50. Males are also significantly more likely 

to be OHV users than females. American Indians have the highest participation rate (31 percent) among 

racial and ethnic groups, just as they do in every other region. Though the Hispanic rate (14 percent) is 

next to the lowest, the number of Pacific Hispanic OHV users (about 1.3 million) is second only to

Whites. This is due to the large Hispanic population, especially in California. 

People with family incomes over $50,000 all participated at similar rates (23 to 27 percent). Only 12 

percent of the lowest income class participated. Similar to every other region, the highest educated strata 

participated at the lowest rates. Just 13 percent of people with post-graduate degrees were OHV users 

compared with 21 percent of high school graduates and those attending some college or technical school. 

Also similar to every other region, the participation rate for non-metropolitan residents (32 percent) was 

much higher than for metro-area dwellers (18 percent), however, since the population in the Pacific region 

is more than 90 percent metropolitan, this population group dominated the OHV users, accounting for 

about 89 percent of the 6.9 million participants. 

Population Characteristics of OHV Users in Oregon

The information in the following sections on the age, race, and ethnicity of OHV users in Oregon is 

drawn from an extensive 2008 report entitled, “Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation in the United States and 

its Regions and States: An Update National Report.” The report comes from the National Survey on 

Recreation and the Environment (NSRE), Internet Research Information Series (IRIS). The data show 

that Oregon has a slightly higher percentage of OHV users than the Pacific region as a whole. The 2004 

Oregon Statewide Motorized Trail User Survey was conducted over a four-month period from January to 

April 2004 by the University of Oregon’s Survey Research Laboratory. The survey found that seven 

percent of Oregon households have a person reporting motorized trail use, amounting to 98,000 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 119

households in the state. ATV riding is the most popular activity, with 70 percent of motorized trail users 

having engaged in that activity during the past year followed by off-road motorcycling (44 percent). Most 

motorized respondents were male, and the median age was 40 – 49 years old. More than half had some 

college (62 percent), although most were not college graduates (21 percent). Median income was $40,000 

to $69,999.

Table 35. Percent of population and number of people age 16+ participating in off-highway vehicle 

recreation, by demographic category, 1999-2007, Pacific Regiona

Demographic Strata Population

(1000s) Sample Size Percent participating Participants

All Groups All people age 

16+ 37,006.1 9,684 18.7 6909.2

Age

Under 30 9,742.9 2267 29.7 2898.1

30-50 14,736.9 3999 19.0 2805.1

51 and older 12,525.2 3230 9.7 1206.0

Gender Male 18,360.0 4461 23.5 4303.7

Female 18,646.0 5196 13.9 2605.6

Race/Ethnicity

White 19,901.1 6874 23.2 4613.6

Black 1,925.2 343 16.1 310.3

American Indian 324.8 187 30.6 99.5

Asian/Pacific 

Islander 4,598.0 602 11.2 515.1

Hispanic 9517.7 1334 13.9 1323.8

Annual Income

$25,000 or less 5,607.3 1132 12.0 673.5

$25,000 to 

$49,999 7,498.1 1778 19.4 1455.3

$50,000 to 

$74,999 5,932.0 1439 23.0 1364.4

$75,000 to 

$99,999 3,683.5 813 23.3 859.5

$100,000 to 

$149,999 3,232.6 686 24.1 779.3

$150,000 or more 2,052.0 446 27.2 557.6

Education

Less than high 

school 7,171.7 938 17.9 1286.6

High school 

graduate 7,396.1 1,974 20.9 1,545.7

Some 

college/tech 

school

10,501.4 3,076 21.5 2,259.6

Bachelors degree 5,191.5 2,128 15.4 800.1

Post-graduate 

degree 2,704.6 1,404 12.5 338.2

Place of residence Non-metropolitan 2,357.1 1,874 32.0 753.9

Metropolitan 34,649.0 7,810 17.7 6,155.3

a - Cordell, Ken et al. (2008). p.31

Population Characteristics of OHV Users in Central Oregon

Based on the initial data of the Central Oregon Off-Highway Vehicle Use Study conducted by Virginia 

State University during 2008, 77 percent of the visitors are returning users to Central Oregon OHV trails. 

Seventy percent of the visits are overnight use and average a three day trip. Thirty percent make day use 

trips averaging a six hour day. In a typical year, 12 days were spent recreating in Central Oregon, 24 days 

at other OHV areas. The average miles from the primary residence to this area was 129 miles. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

120 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

The composition of the various groups visiting the area was 42 percent friends, 30 percent family and 

friends, 24 percent family, three percent single and 11⁄2 percent organized club or organization. Forty one 

percent of the visitors were 31-40 years old.

Social Conditions and Trends

Lifestyles, Attitudes, Beliefs, and Values

People in the Central Oregon area are, and always have been, extremely outdoor-oriented in work and 

play. Although historically agriculture, ranching, and forestry were dominant cultural forces in the area in 

the past, this trend has seen a dramatic change - particularly in Deschutes County - with a steady 

transition to the services sector which includes tourism and recreation support services. Rural residential 

and resort development of former industrial timberlands and large ranches throughout the area is an 

important indicator of the change to these traditional lifestyles. These developments, when adjacent to or 

nestled within the two National Forests, are especially desirable to various communities for recreational 

access.

The term value has different meanings in different contexts. In general, value refers to the equivalence or 

worth of a thing in terms of money or goods. One definition of value is an enduring belief that a specific

mode of conduct is socially preferable to an opposite mode of conduct. A value system is also defined as 

an enduring organization of beliefs concerning preferable modes of conduct or end states of existence 

along a continuum of relative importance. A third way of describing a value is a belief about what ought 

to be, what ought not to be, what is right, what is wrong. Values are relatively enduring traits that 

influence our thoughts (Chelladurai, 2006. p.84). Values are relatively difficult to express in words, but 

understanding people’s values is important because it is frequently these values that influence long-term 

goals and decisions.

Attitude is a term that is often used in conjunction with values. An attitude refers to an organization of 

several beliefs around a specific object or situation. A value on the other hand, refers to a single belief of a 

very specific kind. A value concerns a desirable mode of behavior or end-state that has transcendental 

quality to it, guiding actions, attitudes, judgments, and comparisons across specific objects and situations 

and beyond immediate goals to more ultimate goals.

There is also an important distinction between values and norms. A value refers to both end states and the 

means to them. A norm refers only to the means, which is the mode of behavior. A value is not limited to a 

specific situation, but a norm specifies a certain code of conduct in a specific situation. Moreover, a value 

is something personal and internal to the individual. A norm is a code of conduct reflecting a common 

understanding by the people involved in the situation (Chelladurai, 2006. p. 84) 

A study completed by the Forest Service in 2002 surveyed the American public regarding their values 

with respect to public lands, objectives for management of public lands (including recreation 

management) and beliefs about the role the Forest Service should play in fulfilling those objectives. The 

study concludes that the public sees the promotion of ecosystem health and the protection of watersheds

as important objectives. When queried specifically about recreation opportunities, the public supports 

multiple uses, but not all uses to the same degree. The study found that providing access to additional 

motorized recreation opportunities was not a high priority objective, while preserving the opportunity to 

have a “Wilderness experience” was important. Providing opportunities and facilities for non-motorized 

recreation was seen as a somewhat important objective and role for the agency. Separating these often 

conflicting types of pursuits (motorized and non-motorized uses) by designating trails for specific uses 

was seen as a somewhat important objective (Shields et al. 2002).
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 121

Values for land and natural resources take many forms, such as commodity, amenity, environmental 

quality, ecological, public use, spiritual, health, and security (Stankey and Clark 1991). In the past, natural 

resource management tended to emphasize commodity values. The emerging emphasis on other values 

has forced a reevaluation of the commodity emphasis. Stankey and Clark (1991) state, “A new focus on 

the part of the public involves a shift from commodities and services to environments and habitats. The 

public is much more concerned about forest ecosystems than they have been previously and is more 

concerned with having access to decisions about them.”

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests held public workshops in Prineville, LaPine, Sisters, Madras, 

and Bend in 2006-2007, and chartered a federal advisory Travel Management Subcommittee and Working 

Group to help identify the most important values on the Forests related to motorized access.

Given an open opportunity to identify values they associated with the planning area at the public 

workshops, people most often identified activities that they valued doing in an area. Comments from over 

200 people were generated from these meetings, and included a wide variety of sentiments concerning 

people’s attitudes, beliefs, and values concerning motorized access, that were displayed in Figure 8. The 

following comments were part of the comments compiled during the workshops.

“Recreational outings/drives with elderly family members, exploring new areas by motor vehicle are 

what I value.”

“The scenery and beauty of Central Oregon affords a unique place to wander through a vast natural 

setting on public lands. I enjoy the sense of endless exploration potential the areas offer, and a unique 

place to wander through a vast natural setting. I also enjoy taking friends and family out on ATVs to 

enjoy the landscape. Roads that go nowhere with somewhere to let the dog off the leash are important 

to me. Access to rock collecting, cycling (motor and mountain bike), hiking, fishing and general full 

use of the forest are also valued activities.”

“Central Oregon provides a wide array of travel and viewing experiences – high mountains, clean 

streams, deep lakes, steep ravines, and open desert. One can still pretend to be an explorer and enjoy 

the discovery! Outside existing wilderness, one can currently drive a vehicle to nearly any of these 

areas; for exploring, camping, fishing, hunting, teaching children about their heritage and connection 

to the land. Please keep it that way.” 

”I value a place to ride my horse without fearing for my life due to 4-wheelers. The forest should 

provide places to view birds, wildlife, and native vegetation, minimal people, non-hunting areas, 

areas for photography, and stands of trees greater than 16 inches dbh, no clear cuts, and good 

Goshawk habitat areas. We want sounds of nature, animals, streams, birds, etc. and not motorized 

vehicles or the speedboat sounds of snowmobiles.”

“I value riding OHV on existing legal roads/trails as family recreation, with respect to other users. It’s 

a place my teenage sons still love to go with their parents to ride OHVs. The beauty, the quiet, and the 

access to places we would never otherwise get to on foot. I want the ability to access scenic areas 

with my class II vehicle (routes that are both scenic and challenging).”

“I value viewing and experiencing multiple diverse areas that I am no longer able to walk into. Have 

enjoyed them during my life and now need motorized assistance to reach. OHVers also enjoy these 

things (wildlife/solitude) – that’s why we ride. We also hike, kayak, etc. and are responsible and 

respectful. We don’t need more restriction, but simply education and enforcement of existing rules – 

not more closures. So what’s wrong with using all the wilderness areas?”
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

122 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

“I want to be able to stay close to home and enjoy the forest on class I, II, and III in the winter. We 

enjoy wildlife from trails. I think they like us also as they watch us too. I think opportunities for 

multiple use but not always mixed use would be best. Please expand OHV trails...particularly Class 

II, and open up some areas for hill climbs. I prefer to have lots of options without having to ride on a 

designated dusty trail with hundreds of other folks just to access scenic and photo opportunities, 

family/group camping, and riding in dispersed areas.” 

“I value freedom, solitude, and snow. I feel that trails should provide hunting opportunities and back 

country access for hiking, etc.”

“It is important to educate and demonstrate to family and friends the wonders and beauty of the forest 

we need to cherish. The forest should be a place to take our family for OHV use, animal watching, 

hunting, and getting out deeper into the woods than one could walk from trailheads.”

“Wildflowers, wildlife, wetlands, and hydrology protection should be of the utmost importance.”

“I enjoy being able to get off main roads and travel on less traveled, more primitive roads. I also like 

to get to dispersed camping areas, as well as developed camping, fishing, trailheads, etc., and being 

able to get to non-motorized areas. I value the opportunities to see and hear wildlife, observe plant 

life, enjoy beautiful scenery and unspoiled landscapes, and breathe unpolluted air. I value solitude 

along with the lack of noise, traffic, and people.”

“I feel the forest should be a place to take family for OHV activities. I enjoy the ability to get to many 

places in the forest by OHV, and to camp within 150 feet of a designated road. I like to travel where I 

wish, stop and shoot, ride ATVs, 4-wheel on public lands, as deserved as an American. The forest 

should not be restricted to only groups choosing to walk or mountain bike. Everyone does not have 

the time or sometimes good health to saunter about.”

In 2006, the Deschutes Provincial Advisory Committee chartered a Travel Management Subcommittee 

and Working Group with representation from a wide variety of interests. The group met for over 1000 

person-hours during 2006-2008 and identified many shared values including:

• Wildlife and natural resources

• Solitude and scenery

• Ruggedness and the beauty of the natural setting offered in the Forests and Grassland

• Minimum of regulation and encroachment by other users

• Unique privilege of recreating and using the National Forests and Grassland

• Responsible use 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 123

Figure 8. Activities and values - 2006 public workshops

A demonstration test of an internet map-based social values study was conducted by the Green Mountain 

College for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests during the same period. The study offered a 

sample of people from locales that had visited the Forest and people who had specifically identified 

themselves as interested in forest or travel management issues an opportunity to select from a prescribed 

list of social values they thought applied to certain places. Several people contacted the Forest strongly 

concerned with study bias. These people expressed the belief that the limited list of values did not reflect 

their values because it was not tied to their activities, and that the list was too “ecologically” and not 

enough “human” focused. Most of the people that raised this concern were people that made their living 

working in the woods, such as timber industry representatives, or were motorized recreationists or users. 

All this information supports the close relationship of values to activities and lifestyle. As represented by 

the comments cited above, these elements can be so closely linked that some people strongly believe that 

one cannot be fully represented without the other. Also, as noted in the national survey, and as supported 

by the response of the Travel Management Working Group, people often share a particular value – such as 

solitude or scenery, but may find they pursue very different, and sometimes incompatible activities to 

achieve those values on National Forest System lands.

In Montana, a statewide OHV study (Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research 1994) asked both 

motorized vehicle and non-motorized respondents about their motivations for taking a trail trip. The most 

important motivations were nature (be in a natural setting, understand the natural world better), physical 

fitness (improve my physical health, help keep me in shape), stress release (get away from my everyday 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

124 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

responsibilities, help reduce or release some built-up tensions), and affiliation (so I could do things with 

my companions, be with others who enjoy the same things I do). 

Changing Attitudes and Increasing Conflict

Recreation researchers often define the verb “conflict” alongside its opposite, the verb “to share.” The 

verb “share” is generally defined as “to distribute parts of something among others, to retain part of 

something and give the rest or part of the rest to another or other; to take or to use a part of something 

with someone or something; to do or to experience something with others; to join with others; to join with 

others in doing or experiencing something.” On the other hand, the verb “conflict” is defined by the New 

Webster’s Dictionary as “to be at variance, clash, to struggle, or contend.” Conflict can cause serious 

impacts to recreational experiences, to the point of causing some users to end their use and be displaced 

by other preemptive users. For example, when trail users fail to achieve the experiences desired from the 

trip and determine that it is due to someone else’s behavior, conflict results, satisfaction suffers, and use 

patterns may change (Moore 1994).

According to recreation researchers, recreation-related conflict is asymmetrical. Many times feelings of 

conflict are one-way. For example, cross-country skiers dislike encountering snowmobiles, but 

snowmobilers are not as unhappy about encountering cross-country skiers. Likewise, hikers generally 

dislike encountering OHV users, but OHV users are not as unhappy about encountering hikers (Moore

1994). Another major source of conflict is the difference in attitudes toward and perceptions of the 

environment. Some examples of how people commented on the proposed action during the scoping 

process demonstrate some of these attitudes and perceptions:

“Motorized vehicle roads and trails are not essential for a pleasing recreation experience; in fact, quiet 

use on non-motorized trails arguably makes for a better experience with more wildlife viewing 

opportunities and less intrusive disrupting noise.”

“OHV recreation can be managed and sustainable, while also providing a valuable recreational 

experience for OHV enthusiasts. Motorized recreation is a family activity that offers an opportunity 

for parents and children to experience all that our public lands have to offer in a unique manner.” 

Recreation users in conflict have been found to have different attitudes toward the environment (Moore

1994) and may perceive the environment differently. Some view the natural environment as an integral 

part of their experience. Others view the natural environment more as a setting for their activity. This 

conflict may also occur between people who view the national forests as an essential setting for their 

lifestyle, such as ranchers and residents adjacent to National Forest or other public lands. The following 

comment from the scoping letters reflects sentiments often heard from ranchers in the Central Oregon

area.

“As a rancher who has lands adjoining the national (sic) forest in Crook County, I am appalled at the 

damage done to our fragile land by these vehicles. In addition, I am constantly fixing fence that has 

been cut by horn hunters using these vehicles, which leave forest service land and cross my property. 

ALL OFF-ROAD VEHICLES SHOULD BE BANNED; period. They may be recreation to some 

people, but they are spoilers of our environment to the rest of us.”

Research (Williams 1993) shows that factors that influence the likelihood of conflict include activity 

style, resource specificity, mode of experience, and tolerance for lifestyle diversity. Conflict is much more 

likely to occur if the activity is an integral part of the person’s lifestyle rather than an occasional activity. 

Resource specificity refers to the significance a person attaches to using a specific resource. Conflict is 

more likely to occur when the person has a special relationship with a place and perceives others are 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 125

disrupting the traditional uses of the place or devaluing its meaning. Mode of experience refers to the way 

in which the environment is perceived. Conflict is most likely to occur when the person perceives the 

environment as part of the experience rather than as a backdrop for the experience. The last factor is 

tolerance for lifestyle. Conflict is more likely to occur when the user has a higher tendency to reject 

lifestyles that are different than his or her own. Examples include a preference for motor vehicle uses 

versus non-motorized uses, or consumptive versus non-consumptive activities.

People who view the environment as an integral part of their recreation experience are more susceptible to 

conflict than those who see the environment as primarily a setting for their activity. In applying this 

concept, there are recreationists who participate in an activity – either motorized or non-motorized - to 

enjoy the environment and there are others for whom the environment provides a setting to enjoy their 

motorized or non-motorized activity. So, for instance, a marathon runner, or a person on a mountain bike, 

or an OHV may be less susceptible to conflict with other users if the setting is less important to the 

activity than the activity itself, whereas people for whom the setting or environment is the most important 

component of the activity are more likely to be susceptible to conflict with other users within that setting.

Noise, dust, and smells associated with activities are also harbingers and indicators of potential conflict. 

Generally speaking, the louder, dustier, and more odor generated by an activity – in other words, the more 

one user feels that their recreation setting has been infringed upon by another user - the more likely that 

activity will be to generate a high level of conflict between different users. These factors become primary 

players in determining the degree to which conflict may exist. 

The residual effects of activities also contribute to the degree to which people experience evidence of 

conflicting values, attitudes and beliefs. For instance, National Forest and Grasslands within 1⁄4 mile of a 

population center or residential area will tend to have a large percentage of illegal dumps of garbage, 

construction, or landscape debris when compared to more isolated areas. These areas – such as the Horse 

Butte area south of Bend, or the McKay Creek area northeast of Prineville - also tend to attract 

concentrated uses from the nearby residents and urban areas such as walking dogs, running, bicycle 

riding, and shooting and hill climbs for OHVs because of the cinder buttes and mineral material sources 

(cinder or rock pits) in the area. These areas are also often “party areas” that have associated residual 

garbage, and debris. Depending upon wind direction, the shooting and OHV activities contribute a 

constant level of noise to nearby residents and to non-motorized users of the area. Areas such as these, in 

close proximity to residences and urban growth boundaries, with lots of different uses “close in” to 

people’s homes or urban areas, tend to create higher potential for conflict between users. These wildlandurban interface areas are also coincident with areas of focused concern and management for hazardous 

fuels reduction activities on the Forests.

The conflict between motorized users and non-motorized users also relates to norms. Individuals and 

groups with different standards of behavior, social and individual norms that define what behavior is 

appropriate, often conflict with one another. Norms appear to be more useful than goals or values for 

predicting conflict. For example, a hiker and an OHV user may express the same goal of wanting to 

experience nature and escaping from the city but may cause conflict for one another due to different 

modes of acceptable behavior (Moore 1994). This concept was clearly illustrated during the Travel 

Management Subcommittee and Working Group’s discussions about shared values. 

In the West in places where land use has been relatively unrestricted, there is increasing conflict over the 

control and management of public lands. Some residents feel that change in public land management is 

being driven by non-local government officials and environmental advocacy groups who may not have a 

true understanding of the lands or the people living nearby who depend upon these lands for their 

livelihood and recreation. There is particular concern about the loss of traditional uses of the land. People 

with these concerns see a balance to what they consider to be environmental extremism with economic 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

126 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

and human concerns. In Central Oregon, where public lands have generally been perceived to be open to 

motorized access unless posted closed, the philosophical change of the proposed actions to essentially 

close lands to motorized access unless designated open, is a struggle. Some people have expressed that 

this is more of the government taking away their rights, or punishing the many for the damage caused by 

a few, while others expressed that this is the government finally stepping up and protecting the natural 

resources they are responsible for managing for future generations. This dichotomy was illustrated by 

comments received during the scoping process such as the following:

“First, let me say I am 68 years old, have always been a tax paying citizen since age 16, two of my 

ancestors fought for America in the Revolutionary War. I have a weak heart after surgery and a 

defibrillator implanted in my chest. At one time I could hike and climb mountains with the best of 

them. But now, to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, I ride an ATV. And, as more public lands are 

closed to ATV riders, I feel as though I am being discriminated against because of my failing health.” 

“ATV riding is wholesome family recreation that should be a priority when looking at land use. 

Public lands belong to the public and must remain open for public use.”

“Instead of dealing directly and harshly with people who use vehicles to destroy public lands, you are 

closing the land to all but the young and healthy. ... We have camped and hunted the same areas for 

four generations – 54 years. Where we hunt is two miles from any road. To continue to enjoy this 

experience we need access. To pack out a deer or elk for two miles of rocky ground is most difficult.” 

“Over 9,000 mile of designated routes and several designated areas open to off road vehicles is 

excessive as motorized vehicle use is exclusive to other uses (e.g.: quiet, nonmotorized recreation) 

and can disturb wildlife (also with fragmentation of habitat by roads) to the point that rarer and 

federally listed species and others will no longer use the area....”

Survey respondents in the Montana survey (1994) were also asked what other activities were compatible 

with the activity they participated in. Not surprisingly, backpacker and day hikers found other nonmotorized activities to be most compatible with their activity. In all cases, motor vehicle users were much 

more likely to say their activity was compatible with day hiking and backpacking. Forty-five percent of 

the respondents agreed that conflicts on trails are relatively minor while 15 percent disagreed. 

According to Boston et al (1997), “OHV recreation covers a huge range of activity from casual family use 

to intense competition; from use in the backyard to use on high mountains; wildland trail use to open 

desert. Enjoyment comes from use where the vehicle itself is the focus of the experience to the use of the 

vehicle as an enjoyable method of reaching or enjoying remote terrain; from a way to escape societal 

pressure to a way of sharing experiences with family or friends; from casual to organized activities.”

This range of use is reflective of comments received during the planning process for the Travel 

Management Strategy and by members of the Travel Management Subcommittee and Working Group 

meetings as well. This range of activity is also shared by non-motorized recreationists that use a nonmotorized vehicle for their recreational use such as bicyclists and horseback riders. 

This discussion of the conflicting attitudes, beliefs, values and norms related to motorized and nonmotorized regulation and recreational use demonstrates the difficulty in neutrally defining and evaluating 

the conflicts between motorized and non-motorized recreation activities. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 127

Both motorized and non-motorized users have concerns about their potential loss of access and loss of 

opportunities for desired experiences. Comments such as the following48 demonstrate this mutual 

concern: 

“In the Ochoco National Forest, I can only assume that in the roughly 250 square miles of ‘Seasonally 

Allowed Off Designated Routes,’ there are hundreds of miles of trails that will be closed..... the 

importance of an OHV trail cannot be gauged by a non-OHV using individual for value.”

“Oregon Recreation Coalition urges the agency to analyze and appreciate the high OHV recreation 

value of special areas such as expert-level single track motorcycle trials or high difficulty 4WD rock 

crawling opportunities. We urge the Forest Service to propose for mixed use designation a substantive 

number of level 3-5 roads for OHV use to connect up various trails and staging areas.” 

“We are also concerned with helping to develop OHV trail systems in the Ochoco National Forest. 

We have experienced outstanding trail riding in Eastern Oregon, and especially in Utah, and would 

like to see this kind of opportunity exist in the Ochocos.”

“Roads are not trails.”

“Many horse groups and individuals including hikers and Mountain Bike Riders have enjoyed this 

pristine and scenic trail system (Bandit Springs Endurance Ride)... until these past few years since 

Motorcycles and ATVs have taken the trails over.”

Motorized users indicated that there were already too many areas that were focused on non-motorized 

access, while many non-motorized users share the belief with environmental advocates that there are too 

many open designated roads within the Forests, and the increasing number of OHVs and their increased 

capacity to go to more places has put natural resources at risk and increased incompatibility between both 

user groups. All of the members of the Travel Management Subcommittee and Working Group shared the 

sentiments that all users need to should value the unique natural resources offered in Central Oregon. 

Motorized users within the group also expressed the views that more tolerance and willingness to share a 

limited resource with others was an important value, while at the same time many of the non-motorized 

users expressed doubt that sharing trails would be compatible with their values.

Recreation Trends and Uses 

Recreation trends and motorized and non- motorized uses are described in detail in the recreation section 

of this EIS. However, understanding recreation trends and uses within the planning area is important to 

making an informed evaluation of the likely social and economic effects of decisions affecting motorized 

access. The social and economic effects of recreation uses are tied to the amount and type of use. These 

uses and trends related to motorized and non-motorized recreation and access are summarized in this 

section and the economic contribution of these uses follows. Data was used for these summaries from the 

National Visitor Use Monitoring (NVUM) and the National Survey on Recreation and the Environment 

(NSRE).

All Uses

A recent study (Outdoor Industry Foundation, 2006) estimated that 72 percent of Americans aged 16 and 

older participated in an outdoor activity in 2005, with hiking, running and bicycling on trails being three 

 

48 Excerpted from public comment letters received during the scoping phase of the Travel Management EIS.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

128 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

of the most frequently reported activities. Non-motorized recreation continues to be one of the most 

popular categories of recreation throughout the state and within the local region. National Visitor Use 

Monitoring (NVUM) findings show that most visitors participate in non-motorized activities (English, 

Kocis and Hales 2003). A description of visitor activities was compiled from the survey. During their visit 

to the two Forests, the top six recreation activities of visitors to the Deschutes National Forest were 

hiking/walking, relaxing, viewing wildlife, viewing natural features, fishing, and downhill 

ski/snowboarding. Visitor’s top picks while visiting the Ochoco National Forest were viewing wildlife, 

natural features and scenery; primitive camping; fishing, hunting, and developed camping.

Each visitor also picked one of these activities as their primary activity for the current recreation visit to 

the Forest. The top primary activities for the Deschutes National Forest were downhill skiing or 

snowboarding, fishing, hiking/walking, relaxing, and viewing natural features; while for the Ochoco the 

top primary activities were developed camping, viewing wildlife/nature, hunting, horseback riding, and 

general relaxing. See Table 11 in the recreation section of this chapter.

Other popular dispersed recreation activities for the Deschutes include camping, fishing, hunting (noncommercial), gathering forest products such as antlers, mushrooms, cones, etc., and driving Forest roads 

for wildlife viewing, or viewing natural scenery. Dispersed camping and day use picnicking are popular 

activities on the Deschutes Forest accounting for approximately 14 percent of overall participation. Even 

more popular on the Ochoco National Forest, these activities account for about 27 percent of visitors’ 

primary or secondary activities.

National Visitor Use Monitoring data indicates that big-game hunting is a popular activity across both 

Forests, but much more so on the Ochoco National Forest than on the Deschutes. The Ochoco National 

Forest is a regionally and even nationally popular destination for big-game hunting. Approximately 22.6 

percent of visitors identified hunting as either a primary or secondary activity on the Ochoco National 

Forest compared with only about 3.34 percent on the Deschutes which claimed hunting as a primary or 

secondary activity. Hunting was also in the top five most popular activities for visitors to the Ochoco.

Although many of these activities are often classified as “non-motorized,” the lines between motorized 

and non-motorized uses begin to blur for many of these activities. For instance, viewing natural features, 

one of the top activities for both Forests can be either a motorized or non-motorized activity. Hunting can 

also be either a motorized or non-motorized experience. Some hunters use motorized vehicles both on and 

off road to scout for and retrieve game, and some hunters will not. Primitive camping could be considered 

by some to be any camp outside of developed campgrounds that they may have accessed with motorized 

vehicles for generations; while other visitors taking the survey might consider primitive camping to be a 

campsite in a remote Wilderness area only accessible after many hours of hiking. Survey data available 

does not make any distinction for whether motorized use is associated with these activities, although there 

is data regarding OHV, or off-highway vehicle use specifically as both a primary and secondary activity. 

Off-Highway Vehicle Uses 

National Visitor Use Monitoring (NVUM) findings indicate that the two Forests were not a major 

provider of OHV (Off-Highway Vehicle) recreation in the year surveyed (See Recreation section for 

details on survey information). Nationally, about 2.5 percent of the 205 million annual recreation visits to 

National Forests identified OHV use as their primary activity, with a slightly higher percentage (3.1 

percent) as a secondary activity. The percentage of forest visitors that report OHV use as their primary or 

secondary activity on the Deschutes National Forest is about equal to the national average (English, Kocis 

and Hales 2004). Data for the Ochoco National Forest indicate a secondary use of 3.1 percent, which is 

slightly higher than the national average.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 129

For the Deschutes National Forest, the survey found that one percent of all recreation visits that year were 

primarily for OHV use. This percentage equates to roughly 31,095 visits during 2001/2002. For the 

Ochoco National Forest, the survey found that there were no recreation visits that year that were primarily 

for OHV use. The Deschutes National Forest ranks towards the lower end out of twenty administrative 

units in the Pacific Northwest Region of the Forest Service (R6) for primary OHV uses, while the Ochoco 

ranks in the bottom three. 

For both Forests a somewhat larger percentage of visitors indicated that they participated in OHV 

recreation even if it was not their primary reason for visiting the Forest. For the Deschutes National 

Forest, the total percentage of visitors that reported OHV use as a primary or secondary activity was 2.47 

percent of all visits, or roughly 76,802 visits. On the Ochoco National Forest, that percentage was 3.35 

percent of all the visits, or roughly 19,900 visits. These data are considerably below the average percent 

participation for Oregon overall (22.2 percent participation) as reported in the National Survey on 

Recreation and the Environment (Cordell, Betz, Green and Stephens 2008). Considering both primary and 

secondary percentages, the Deschutes ranks slightly lower than middle, while the Ochoco ranks near the 

middle. 

This data does not necessarily reflect the apparent local and regional demand for motorized trail systems 

in the area. Central Oregon is a regional destination for OHV trails, with many hundreds of miles of trails 

that can be used throughout the year. Based on the initial data of the Central Oregon Off-Highway Vehicle 

Use Study conducted by Virginia State University during 2008, East Fort Rock is the most used area for 

OHV recreational purposes, second is Millican Valley. 

Table 36. Central Oregon off-highway vehicle use study data 

Henderson Flat 29.4%

East Fort Rock 63.5%

Millican Valley 44.8%

Edison Butte 8.3%

Oregon Dunes NRA 31.6%

Sand Lake 18.1%

Although the East Ft. Rock OHV trail system is a popular destination for many OHV users, overall use is 

considerably below the average participation for Oregon overall (22.2 percent participation) as reported in 

the National Survey on Recreation and the Environment (Cordell, Betz, Green and Stephens 2008). Trail 

use by motorized recreational vehicles is growing in popularity. All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) entered the 

recreation and tourism marketplace in the early 1970s and, since then, ridership has grown rapidly. The 

Specialty Vehicle Institute of America (SVIA) estimates that ATV sales increased over 280 percent 

nationwide in the US since 1994 (SVIA, 2006). ATV recreation participation is expected to continue to 

increase across the US through 2015 (Cordell, Betz, Green, and Owens, 2005). 

There are over 1,375 miles of road open to all motorized travel, and another 220 miles open to highway 

licensed vehicles only on the Forest. In addition, there are 26 miles of motorized trail open to ATVs and 

motorcycles. Such an extensive network of roads provides users with a tremendous variety of options to 

access and view the Forest. Approximately 82 percent of the Forest is accessible within 1⁄2 mile from a 

road.49 

 

49 Based on calculations from the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest geospatial data base.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

130 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 37. Secondary activities reported by primary OHV users in the Pacific Northwest Region of the Forest 

Servicea

Activity % of Primary OHV Users

Developed Camping 49.85

Primitive Camping 5.96

Viewing Wildlife 24.42

Viewing Natural Features 46.22

Visiting Historic Sites 0.04

Relaxing 46.46

Fishing 1.99

Hunting 0.03

Driving for Pleasure 16.74

Hiking/Walking 20.40

Gathering Forest Products 9.54

a - Data source is the first round of National Visitor Use Monitoring 

surveys (English, Kocis and Hales 2004).

Recreation Trends

Primary OHV users also participate in a variety of other recreation activities during their forest visit 

(English, Kocis and Hales 2004). In the Pacific Northwest Region (Region 6), the most popular secondary 

activity for primary OHV users is developed camping (Table 37). Relaxing and viewing natural features 

also had high participation rates.

Cordell reports on the remarkable growth of OHV use in the United States. At the time of the first US 

National Recreation Survey in 1960, OHV recreation was not included as a reportable activity (Cordell et 

al. 2008). OHV use today, however, is among the fastest growing outdoor activities. Nationally, the 

number of people (16+ years of age) who report participating in OHV sports is over 44 million (See Table 

38). Annual OHV sales more than tripled between 1995 and 2003 (sales have leveled off since 2003). 

Total OHV ownership of newly purchased and previously purchased machines increased 174 percent 

between 1993 and 2003, from fewer than three million to more than eight million vehicles. ATVs account 

for about 70 percent of all OHVs, not counting full-size, 4-wheel drive vehicles (Cordell et al. 2008). 

Based on survey data and sales trends, Cordell projected that there could be as many as 9.8 million ATVs 

and off-road motorcycles in the US in early 2008 (Cordell et al. 2008).50 

National Recreation Trend Projections

Table 38. Trends in number of people participating and number of participation days for selected outdoor 

recreation activities in the United States, 1999-2008 

Activity

Total U.S. 

Participants 

(1,000s), 2005-

2008

% Change in 

Participants, 

1999-2001

to

2005-2008

Total Annual 

Participant Days 

(millions), 2005-

2008

% Change in 

Total Days, 

1999-2001 to

2005-2008

Developed Camping 52,021 2.7 532.3 9.3

Primitive Camping 33,330.2 -2.0 310.4 12.1

Backpacking 22,077.0 -0.6 277.7 24.0

 

50 Excerpted from Cordell, Betz et al 2008. Source: NSRE 1999-2001 (n=52607) and 2005-2008 (n=19,186). Note: 1999-2001 

participants based on 214.0 million people age 16+ (2000 Census). 2005-2008 participants based on 230.0 million people age 

16+ (2006 Census estimate). Missing data indicate that either participation or annual days were not collected during that time 

period. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 131

Activity

Total U.S. 

Participants 

(1,000s), 2005-

2008

% Change in 

Participants, 

1999-2001

to

2005-2008

Total Annual 

Participant Days 

(millions), 2005-

2008

% Change in 

Total Days, 

1999-2001 to

2005-2008

Picnicking 115,836.2 -1.4 779.7 -17.2

Viewing Natural Scenery 145,489.2 14.1 11,482.3 60.5

Visiting Historic Sites 92,920.8 -4.5 590.8 -15.2

Nature Center Activities 127,406.5 5.0 1,044.0 23.2

Drive Off-road 44,231.3 18.6 1,349.6 56.1

Driving for Pleasure 111,069.0 3.1 2,637.3 -1.1

Snowmobiling 8,328.2 -29.7 92.7 -27.4

Day Hiking 74,032.5 6.8 1,993.4 -20.9

Horseback Riding (trail) 15,262.6 -8.2 278.3 -35.2

Bicycling 91,225.5 7.7 - -

Kayaking 12,480.5 63.1 76.1 29.4

Downhill Skiing 15,615.4 -14.8 126.4 -15.7

Cross-country Skiing 4,970.7 -39.2 58.8 -7.8

Gathering Forest Products 71,023.3 16.1 869.3 1.9

View or Photograph Birds 81,119.9 19.3 8,039.0 37.6

Viewing Other Wildlife 114,792.0 21.3 5,341.6 46.9

Mountain Climbing 11,811.2 -12.5 104.1 20.5

Visit a Wilderness 70,591.9 3.0 1,108.6 12.8

According to Cordell, “quiet” recreation activities show strong growth, and they are predicted to become 

even more popular (such as viewing natural scenery, hiking, bicycling, kayaking, and viewing wildlife). 

Other quiet activities are becoming less popular (such as horseback riding, primitive camping, and crosscountry skiing). Such trends may represent a reordering of priorities (Cordell, Betz et al. 2008). 

Regional Recreation Trend Projections

The following tables display trends for dispersed recreational activities in the Pacific Region 

(Washington, Oregon, California, Alaska and Hawaii). Table 39 shows a baseline figure of the number of 

participants in the Pacific Region for each activity, and projected growth index for 2010, 2020 and 2050. 

Table 39 displays the same activities, listing the number of days participated and projected growth indices 

for the same years.51 

Table 39. Participation in some dispersed recreation activities in the Pacific Region, and projection index for 

participation in 2010, 2020 and 2050 (Cordell et al. 1999:326-349) 

Activity 1995 Participants 2010 Projection 

index

2020 Projection 

index

2050 Projection 

Index

Hiking 10,900,000 1.23 1.34 1.85

Biking 9,800,000 1.19 1.29 1.65

Horseback Riding 2,400,000 1.18 1.29 1.77

Primitive Camping 5,600,000 1.13 1.23 1.44

Fishing 7,500,000 1.12 1.20 1.38

Hunting 1,700,000 0.85 0.79 0.64

Developed Camping 8,800,000 1.19 1.32 1.73

Off-Road Driving 4,700,000 1.10 1.20 1.33

 

51 The data displayed in Table 39 and Table 40 represent a subset of all recreational activities covered in this study, and apply to 

the Pacific Region in general, not just to recreation activities on National Forests. See the study for more details regarding study 

design, projection parameters and assumptions (Cordell et al. 1999: 326-349). 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

132 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Activity 1995 Participants 2010 Projection 

index

2020 Projection 

index

2050 Projection 

Index

Picnicking 15,800,000 1.2 1.31 1.63

Sightseeing 18,500,000 1.26 1.42 1.87

Wildlife 

viewing/photography 16,700,000 1.23 1.37 1.77

The projection index represents the percent increase in the number of participants expected for that 

activity for a specific decade in Table 39 and the percent increase in the total number of days participated 

attributed to the activity in the Pacific Region in Table 40. Multiplying the projection index with the 1995 

baseline gives the projected growth in participation and the projected growth for the total number of days 

of dispersed recreation anticipated for a given activity.

Table 40. Number of days some dispersed recreation activities in the Pacific Region, and projection index for 

participation in 2010, 2020 and 2050 (Cordell et al. 1999:326-349) 

Activity 1995 Participants 

- Days

2010 Projection 

index

2020 Projection 

index

2050 Projection 

Index

Hiking 192,800,000 1.20 1.31 1.62

Biking 400,900,000 1.16 1.24 1.55

Horseback Riding 76,700,000 1.10 1.21 1.70

Primitive Camping 57,500,000 1.26 1.46 2.08

Fishing 119,100,000 1.16 1.25 1.44

Hunting 36,000,000 0.95 0.96 0.81

Developed Camping 92,900,000 1.23 1.39 1.88

Off-Road Driving 98,900,000 1.09 1.13 1.42

Picnicking 180,400,000 1.21 1.35 1.62

Sightseeing 363,500,000 1.38 1.67 2.59

Wildlife 

viewing/photography 838,000,000 1.33 1.58 2.14

Recreation data for the Pacific Northwest Region found in these studies displays trends that could be 

expected for visitation on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests in the coming decades. According 

to these projections, sightseeing, followed by non-consumptive wildlife activities like bird watching, 

wildlife viewing and photography will account for the most recreation use in the future, with picnicking, 

hiking, biking, developed camping, fishing, primitive camping, off-road driving, horseback riding, and 

hunting following. 

This data also indicates that people participating in non-consumptive wildlife activities spend more days 

participating in their activity than do other recreationists. Heavy growth in the demand for sightseeing (87 

percent increase by 2050), hiking (85 percent increase by 2050), and non-consumptive wildlife activities 

(77 percent increase by 2050) could be expected. The demand for off-road driving is projected to increase 

by about 20 percent by 2020. The data suggests the demand for activities that favor semi-primitive nonmotorized settings both summer and winter will be heaviest in the future, competing with an also growing 

demand for semi-primitive motorized settings for off-road vehicle use. It is important to note that 

recreationists often participate in more than one activity during any given outing, and could be 

represented more than once in the preceding data. 

Communities of Interest

Based on the comments received and the primary social factors people have indicated as important to 

them, “communities of interest” were identified to facilitate the evaluation about common attitudes, 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 133

beliefs, and values of a collection of individuals and the impacts of management change on these factors. 

These groupings greatly simplify the members’ actual values, beliefs, and attitudes. Individuals can 

belong to diverse communities of interest. The groupings identified are motorized and non-motorized 

recreationists, aging and physically challenged users, environmental advocacy groups, and adjacent 

landowners/residents. 

Motorized Recreationists 

Although as noted earlier, recreationists that use a motor vehicle for recreation access fall across a wide 

spectrum of users, for the purposes of this analysis, the focus will be on OHV users. Based on comments 

received during the planning process, and in the discussions of the Travel Management Subcommittee and 

Working Group, OHV users participate in their activities as a way for their family and friends to enjoy the 

backcountry scenery together and the challenge of traveling across varied terrain. These users enjoy their 

activities for many of the same reasons that non-motorized recreationists enjoy theirs – the chance to 

enjoy the beauty of nature, challenge of nature, and enjoy the solitude of the Forest. Some users feel they 

are being forced off of public land by more restrictive rules and regulations, and that responsible users are 

punished for those that are not responsible. As noted during the Travel Management Subcommittee and 

Working Group discussions, they feel there are a few irresponsible users that are out there, but the 

majority of users are not. These comments and beliefs were shared by the findings of the BLM in 

Montana and the Dakotas (USDI 2008). Many of the local organized motorized groups such as the 

Deschutes County 4-Wheelers, or the Ochoco Trail Riders and the Central Oregon Motorcycle and ATV 

Club (COMAC), feel that their value of the ecological integrity of the Forest is well demonstrated by their 

contributions of hundreds of volunteer hours to clean up garbage dumps and pull weeds, as well as 

maintain motorized trails. These users generally are willing to share the areas they use with other 

motorized and non-motorized users, although there is also a recognition that shared motorized trails may 

not be compatible in some instances for a number of reasons. Many motorized users expressed the belief 

that, given the limits on natural resources, all users should practice more tolerance of others.

Based on comments received throughout the travel management planning process, motorized users share 

concerns about loss of access to areas traditionally used for these activities, and localized damage from 

OHV use being used to justify restrictions across the Forest, instead of only where there are problem 

areas. People are concerned that this represents a continuing and increasing trend for limiting motorized 

access. OHV users generally also supported motorized access for game retrieval, hunting, and disabled 

and aging access. Some hunters indicated a concern that loss of ability to access traditional hunting areas 

with an OHV would mean they could not hunt at all. According to Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor 

Recreation Plan survey data (Oregon Parks and Recreation Department 2008), 25 percent of all hunters in 

Oregon use OHVs for their hunting experience. Recent research on OHV recreation found that OHV 

users were about three times more likely to participate in the three types of hunting (big game, small 

game, and migratory bird) than the general public. In fact, this same research shows that, as a whole, 

OHV users participate at more than twice the national rate (RECSTATS 2008).

The attitudes, beliefs, and values of this community of interest that would be affected by the proposed 

actions are reflected in how their activities might be affected. Key indicators include:

• The amount of motorized access available on and off designated routes and amount of motorized 

access for dispersed camping which affect the opportunities available for motorized access for 

viewing, family experiences, hunting, gathering, solitude, experiencing the challenge of nature, safety 

and crowding on designated routes 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

134 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Non-Motorized Users

Based on many comments received during the travel management planning process, a prime motivation 

of non-motorized users appears to be a quiet, peaceful experience in beautiful surroundings in a natural 

forested setting. Many people who generally classify themselves as non-motorized users are also 

primarily looking for the challenges that the Forest can provide for a particular sport, such as rock 

climbing or mountain biking. Some users have indicated that there are fewer and fewer places to get away 

from it all, and feel it is important to protect that peace and quiet where it is still available.

Non-motorized users concerns are mainly, although not exclusively, associated with incompatibility with 

motorized uses. Non-motorized users expressed their concerns about OHV noise, the smell of exhaust, 

dust, and safety. They were concerned about the impacts of OHV use on wildlife and other resources. 

They were concerned with being displaced from areas because of the increasing motorized use, even with 

the ability to “win back” some areas from which they have been displaced because of motorized use. 

Some hunters, especially bow hunters, and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, believe there are 

greater benefits to a high-quality hunt if motorized access is limited to a few designated routes. In Central 

Oregon, this is demonstrated by a number of popular hunting units that have had limited motorized access 

during big game hunting seasons as a result of cooperative agreements between landowners and the 

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (these are also known as the “Green Dot” system). 

The attitudes, beliefs, and values of this community of interests that would be affected by the proposed 

actions are reflected in how their activities might be affected. Key indicators include:

• The amount of motorized access available on and off designated routes and the conditions for 

motorized access for dispersed camping which affect the opportunities available for viewing, peace, 

quiet and solitude away from the noise, dust, and disturbance of motorized uses when camping, 

hunting, gathering, viewing, or using non-motorized trails

• The amount of area with designated non-motorized trails that are also open to motorized access off of 

designated routes that affect the potential for conflicting uses of non-motorized trails

Aging and Less Physically-able Population

As noted earlier, the population of Central Oregon is aging, and this reflects a trend common to all states 

(Campbell 1996). The percentage of persons under 20 years of age will decrease and the percentage of 

population over 65 will increase over the next 30 years. The available research indicates that participation 

in outdoor activities change as people age. However, it is unclear how recreation choices will change as 

the baby boomer generation ages. As Hornback (1991) indicates, “Though aging is the prime social trend 

of the next two decades, we have little understanding of how the leisure sequence unfolds as people 

age....” In Central Oregon, there are many of older and retired people from this generation that are very 

physically fit and are advocates for non-motorized recreation. Several comments shared with the Forest 

Service during this planning process also reflected a concern that the needs and desires of the older 

population should be considered, and that closing areas to motor vehicle travel would restrict access for 

older and less physically-able people to activities such as hunting, fishing, and sightseeing. 

The attitudes, beliefs, and values of this community of interests that would be affected by the proposed 

actions are reflected in how their activities might be affected. Key indicators include:

• The amount of motorized access available on and off designated routes which affect the opportunities 

available for motorized access for viewing, family experiences, hunting, gathering, solitude, safety 

and crowding on designated routes 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 135

• The distance from an open designated route which affects the amount of land that may be accessible 

with a motor vehicle for hunting and gathering 

• The amount of area available for motorized access for dispersed camping which affect the 

opportunities for traditional family camping, hunting, gathering, and viewing 

Environmental Advocacy Groups

Based on the comments received during the travel management process, environmental advocacy groups 

and associated individuals tend to support a more restrictive policy for motorized use and most expressed 

that use should be restricted to designated routes if allowed at all. The condition of resources on public 

lands is important to these groups because they value the resources for recreation, wildlife, scenic and 

spiritual qualities. They are concerned that motorized use – especially unregulated off-highway vehicle 

use - has and will continue to contribute to resource damage and degradation such as erosion or 

disturbance, air and noise pollution, disturbance to other recreationists and native plant communities, the 

spread of invasive weed populations, and wildlife habitat destruction and fragmentation.

The key attitudes, beliefs, and values of this community of interests that would be affected by the 

proposed actions are reflected in how their activities might be affected. Key indicators include:

• The amount of motorized access available on and off designated routes which affect environmental 

conditions such as soils, riparian and upland vegetation conditions, or wildlife habitat disturbance or 

modification

• The amount of area available or conditions for motorized access for dispersed camping which affect 

environmental conditions 

Adjacent Landowners and Residents 

Wildland-urban interface areas are defined as an approximately 1.5 mile area surrounding communities 

that have common boundaries with National Forest System lands. These acres indicate areas that were 

identified for high fire risk due to their proximity to communities that are adjacent to National Forest 

System lands. There are approximately 260,350 acres of wildland-urban interface on the Deschutes 

National Forest, which comprise about 16 percent of the total Forest acres. There are approximately 

24,929 acres of wildland-urban interface on the Ochoco National Forest, which comprise about three 

percent of the total Forest acres. The acreage gives an indication of the amount of Forest lands that would 

affect adjacent landowners and residents. These are lands and acreages that have particular importance as 

earlier noted for both motorized and non-motorized access by residents within the communities. These 

areas also represent the National Forest System lands that are “close-in” to urban and rural residential 

areas (including resorts and other recreation developments), and thus may have higher potential for 

conflicts between users. 

Many people who live in these communities own OHVs and/or other classes of motor vehicles that they 

use to access the adjacent National Forest System lands currently open to cross-country travel directly 

from their homes. Based on observations from field personnel and comments from residents, many of 

these motorized users purchased their homes in these specific communities because of the open motorized 

access to National Forest System lands. There are also landowners in some of these subdivisions who 

purchased their homes to enjoy the solitude that the Forest can offer. These landowners are often opposed 

to cross-country travel adjacent to their lands because of impacts from noise, dust, and sometimes 

inadvertent trespass.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

136 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

In addition to motorized access from private lands or communities adjacent to National Forest System 

lands, those adjacent lands are often open to motorized access for dispersed camping. In some cases, 

motorized dispersed camping adjacent to private lands causes disturbance or conflict with private land 

owners from garbage, abandoned campfires (adding to wildfire risk), noise, and sometimes trespasses. 

As noted earlier, many people live and work in Central Oregon because of the proximity to public lands. 

Although this has been true for many decades, the trends in the amount of rural residential landowners are 

increasing, while the larger landowners such as industrial timberland owners and large base ranches have 

diminished. 

This trend has increased over the last decade. Recent electronic polls conducted by Deschutes County as a 

part of their Comprehensive Plan Update, indicated more than 50 percent of the population of the 

southern portion of the County – which is surrounded by National Forest System lands – have been in the 

area for less than 5 years. This influx of populations into these rural residential areas all indicated that a 

natural scenic setting and access to public lands were an important part of their decision to live in that 

area. A coalition of homeowners in the south Deschutes County area has formed, called the Deschutes 

River Coalition. They have created a non-profit organization that is focused around helping to resolve 

problems associated with residential life in a wildland-urban interface such as that on the upper Deschutes 

River. This reflects the value that many residents adjacent to public land share for maintaining the scenic 

and ecological integrity of the land, and also reflects their perception that the management of that land for 

many purposes is more important to them because they live there. They believe that they have an 

important role as stewards of the land because of their proximity, and often believe they have the most 

knowledge about activities that damage forest resources. 

These people reflect the mix of concerns of both motorized and non-motorized recreationists, as well as 

environmental advocates and the aging and less physically-able population. Rural residents concerns 

about access are more directly tied to their access from their homes to National Forest System lands and 

also their ability to drive OHVs between neighborhoods or to local establishments, such as in the Crescent 

Lake Junction area. For large landowners such as Ochoco Lumber and ranchers on the Big Summit 

Prairie adjacent to the Ochoco National Forest, trespass, noise, and potential fire risk are all concerns that 

they feel as a result of the increase in OHV uses. 

The attitudes, beliefs, and values of this community of interests that would be affected by the proposed 

actions are reflected in how their activities or lifestyle might be affected. Key indicators include: 

• The amount of motorized access available on and off designated routes within the wildland-urban 

interface which affect the opportunities available for motorized access to National Forest System 

lands or between communities from residences and the potential for trespass on private lands 

• The amount of area available for and conditions of motorized access for dispersed camping within the 

wildland-urban interface which affect the potential for disturbance to residents in communities 

adjacent to National Forest System lands or for trespass on private lands

Basic Economic Conditions in the Study Area 

In 2007, economists believed that Oregon’s economy had recovered from the recession of 2001. 

Unemployment in Oregon grew from an average rate of 5.1 percent in 2000 to an average of 8.1 percent 

in 2003, but by 2005 the annual rate had fallen again to 6.1 percent. In the first five months of 2006, the 

rate ranged between 5.3 and 5.6 percent, while the national unemployment rate was between 4.6 and 4.8 

percent. Competition for jobs intensified with the state’s continued population growth. From 2000 to 2005 

Oregon’s working age population grew 7.6 percent, while employment grew 3.2 percent.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 137

During the past twenty years, Oregon has been making the transition from a resource-based economy to a 

more mixed manufacturing and marketing economy, with an emphasis on high technology. Oregon’s hard 

times of the early 1980s signaled basic changes had occurred in traditional resource sectors — timber, 

fishing, agriculture — and the state worked to develop new economic sectors to replace older ones. Most 

important, perhaps, was the state’s growing high-tech sector, centered in the three counties around one of 

the primary metropolitan areas, Portland. However, rural Oregon counties were generally left out of any 

shift to a new economy. When the boom of the 1990s collapsed, Oregon was again confronted with high 

unemployment, problems of hunger, and a diminishing safety net of social services. As of 2006, Oregon 

ranked 22nd in the nation for hunger (Oregon Blue Book http://bluebook.state.or.us/).

In 2008, Oregon, and the United States as a nation entered a recession. The overall economic downturn is 

affecting recreation use patterns in Oregon. 

Economic Contributions of Travel and Tourism

Travel and tourism is becoming an increasingly important economic contributor to the central Oregon 

region. The contribution of this sector may demonstrate the values of public lands as a setting that attracts 

and retains people who want to live in adjacent communities for quality of life reasons. According to 

County Business Patterns, in 2006, the travel and tourism industry contributed 6 percent of the total jobs 

to the economy (excluding proprietors and government) in the four-county area. That compares to 4.9 

percent in the U.S. as a whole. Over the last 8 years, travel and tourism employment in the region has 

grown by 36.5 percent, which is faster than the nation as a whole.

Table 41. Jobs in 2006

Deschutes 

OR Crook OR Jefferson OR Klamath OR Region Oregon United States

Total 

Timber-Related 2,060 1,253 1,938 1,789 7,040 49,678 1,124,528

Mining 62 63 7 29 161 1,939 554,333

Travel and

Tourism 3,735 238 461 944 5,378 68,291 5,845,290

All Other Jobs 54,610 4,092 1,985 16,203 76,890 1,341,752 112,392,849

Within the region, Deschutes County has the most travel and tourism jobs (3,735). The least numbers of 

jobs are in Crook County (238). Together, the region employs 7.9 percent of all travel and tourism jobs. 

Within the region, Jefferson County has the largest share of travel and tourism jobs (10.5 percent). The 

lowest shares of jobs are in Crook County (4.2 percent). Together the regions’ share is six percent, 1.3 

percent higher than the State’s share of the total (4.7 percent). From 1998 to 2006, the four-county area 

gained travel and tourism jobs, and lost none. During that time period, Deschutes County gained the most 

travel and tourism-related jobs (1062), while Klamath County gained the least (48).52 

Travel and tourism jobs in Deschutes County were somewhat high (0.4 standard deviations from the 

median). 3,735 people were employed which accounts for six percent of the economy. Nationwide, its 

share had a rank of 296 which puts it in the top ten percent of all counties. As a share of total, travel and 

tourism jobs in Crook County were roughly average (0.0 standard deviations from the median). 238 

people were employed which accounts for four percent of the economy. Nationwide, its share had a rank 

of 1,376 which puts it in the top 44 percent of all counties. As a share of total, travel and tourism jobs in 

 

52 Based on EPS Report on Travel and Tourism for Deschutes, Crook, Jefferson, and Klamath Counties
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

138 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Jefferson County were high (1.3 standard deviations from the median). 461 people were employed which 

accounts for ten percent of the economy. Nationwide, its share had a rank of 168 which puts it in the top 

six percent of all counties. Travel and tourism jobs in Klamath County were roughly average (0.1 

standard deviations from the median). 944 people were employed which accounts for four percent of the 

economy. Nationwide, its share had a rank of 817 which puts it in the top 27 percent of all counties.

Economic Contributions of Recreation Use

Recreation use and the contributions of those uses to the economies of the Central Oregon region, the 

state and the nation are becoming increasingly important. The employment and labor income effects

stemming from current recreational activities occurring on the Forest are estimated based on the 

expenditure of the users engaged in the recreational activities on the Forest. The NVUM survey collected 

information regarding user spending within 50 miles of the National Forest boundary. Users reported 

expenditures for various activities such as groceries, restaurants, gas and lodging. The specific spending 

profiles and expenditures are documented in Stynes and White (2004). These expenditures are used to 

identify the contribution of recreation use on the Forest to the economy of the study area. Response 

coefficients that identify employment and labor income effects per 1,000 recreation visits are provided to 

indicate the difference in various management options that could affect the amount of activity use. 

Appendix B-2– Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest Travel Management Economic Contribution 

Report for the planning area display the expected economic contributions of activities on the Deschutes 

and Ochoco National Forests. For the Deschutes, of those activities surveyed, the largest income 

producing activity is hiking/walking, with a total labor income of over $3,000,000; while on the Ochoco 

National Forest it is horseback riding with a total labor income of just over $450,000. 

Information obtained from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department indicates that OHV use rapidly 

gained popularity. In 1997, there were 3.9 million all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) nationally and two million 

off highway motorcycles. In 2002, there were 800,000 ATV sales and 300,000 off highway motorcycles 

sales, almost 2,200 ATVs per day. During this period sales increased 171 percent in the western states. 

The overall 3rd quarter 2008 Motorcycle sales figures reported include motorcycles, scooters and ATVs. 

Total sales year to date, from January to September of 2008 were down 10.7 percent compared to 2007, 

brought down by another 25 percent decrease in ATV sales. ATV sales have dropped approximately 25 

percent each quarter this year when compared to 2007. Dual sport sales were up 29.4 percent, proving that 

this segment remains extremely popular with American motorcyclists. Sales were 39,805 year to date 

compared to 30,759 by the third quarter of 2007. Off highway motorcycle sales continue to suffer; down 

24.9 percent year to date with 114,174 sold year to date compared to 152,086 by the end of Q3 in 2007.

Comparing December 2007 to December 2006, sales of off-road bike were down 27.7 percent; street 

bikes were down 19.7 percent; scooters were down 21.1 percent and all motorcycle categories combined 

were down 23.2 percent. ATV sales were also off 28.3 percent (webBikeWorld).

In July 2007 Dave Crocker of Power Products Marketing reported that US sales of traditional brand ATVs 

were currently in their third consecutive year of decline. While some analysts might attribute this to the 

increasing number of Chinese imports that have flooded the market in recent years it has also become 

apparent that another trend is having a significant impact on ATV sales. 

Over the last three years an increasing number of older buyers are trading in their ATVs and opting for the 

more appealing utility vehicles or “side-by-side vehicles” as they are often called. Surveys conducted by 

Power Products Marketing indicate that as much as ten percent of annual ATV sales are lost to competing 

utility vehicles. (Power Products Marketing, Dave Crocker July 2007) These sales trends point to an 

increasing demand for OHV recreation activities.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 139

OHV trip-related expenditures in the state of Oregon during 1999 were estimated at $46.4 million. 

Oregonians made $29 million in trip expenditures while non-resident visitors made $17.4 million in trip 

expenditures during the year. Nearly $3.2 million was spent in the Central Oregon Region. OHV trip 

expenditures created an additional 831 jobs and $14.6 million in personal income in Oregon. The study 

found an average per person per day OHV trip expenditure of $29. Other recreation activities, like snow 

play ($45), fishing ($31), and camping ($18) have average trip expenditures above and below this 

amount. 

NVUM reported on a substitute choice made by OHV users if they had been unable to use National Forest 

System lands. About 64 percent of visits with the primary purpose of OHV use in the Pacific Northwest 

Region (R6) responded that they would have gone elsewhere for the same activity (English, Kocis and 

Hales 2004).

The 2004 Oregon Statewide Motorized Trail Use Survey revealed that OHV enthusiasts are willing to 

travel reasonably long distances to use their OHVs (Bergerson and Loughlan 2005). The median distance 

traveled to reach an OHV riding opportunity falls in the range of 41 to 50 miles; and, nearly one-fifth of 

OHV users travel more than 100 miles. 

The Blue Ribbon Coalition, which is “a national, non-profit organization dedicated to preserving 

responsible recreational access to public lands and waters,” has written about OHV use and the economy. 

The non-profit published an editorial on its website, “What to do in this Trying Economy.” The editorial 

states that “Fuel prices are killing us [OHV users]. Everything is costing more than ever before. Event 

attendance is down. Off-road businesses are going under.” The article implies that these trends – declining 

event attendance and the failures of off-road businesses is related to the economy.

In response to the economic difficulties, the editorial suggests riding OHVs closer to home. It also 

suggests trying other forms of recreation, including walking in the park. The editorial also stresses the 

importance of supporting OHV businesses. The author says, “... if they [OHV businesses] start to fail 

because we are not buying parts, then we [OHV users] jeopardize our future to some extent.” In several 

places in the article, the author suggests spending time and money closer to home. The article even 

suggests watching movies about OHV recreation and getting friends together to wash their OHV as a 

group (Albright, 2008).

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Social Effects

Attitudes, Beliefs, and Values

The key indicators of the effects of the proposed actions on the attitudes, beliefs and values of the 

different communities of interest are:

• The potential motorized and non-motorized recreation uses and trends

• Acres open to cross-country travel – including those acres open within the wildland-urban interface 

areas adjacent to other landowners 

• Acres open to motorized access for dispersed camping and conditions of motorized access for 

dispersed camping 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

140 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

• The likely effects of these actions on the attitudes, beliefs, and values of the communities of interest 

based on how their activities would be affected by the alternatives and the relationship of those 

activities to their values 

As described by the key indicators above, people’s attitudes, beliefs, and values would be primarily 

affected by the change between the current condition described in Alternative 1 for cross-country travel 

and the actions that are common to Alternatives 2 and 3, which would prohibit cross-country travel in all 

areas that currently do not prohibit cross-country travel. As displayed by the summary in chapter 2, this 

accounts for a change to cross-country travel on about 39 percent of the Deschutes National Forest, and 

about 60 percent of the Ochoco National Forest. Similarly, the change between Alternative 1 and the 

actions common to Alternatives 2 and 3 which would prohibit motorized access for dispersed camping 

more than 300 feet from an open designated route, and change the conditions under which motorized 

access for dispersed camping would be allowed within 300 feet of an open designated route would also 

affect people’s attitudes, beliefs, and values. However, the change in motorized access for dispersed 

camping would, from a practical standpoint, be unlikely to actually affect as much acreage as it appears 

when comparing the numbers in the comparison chart in chapter 2 (currently there is approximately 72 

percent of the Deschutes and 69 percent of the Ochoco open or open seasonally to motorized access for 

dispersed camping; Alternatives 2 and 3 would reduce the area available by about 46 percent on the 

Deschutes and 52 percent on the Ochoco). This is because most motorized access for dispersed camping 

is relatively close to the current system of open designated roads. Approximately 70 percent of the known 

inventoried dispersed sites on the Deschutes and 80 percent on the Ochoco are within 300 feet of an open 

designated road. While this is not based on a comprehensive inventory of all dispersed sites, the sample is 

robust enough to give a relative sense of the likely magnitude of the potential effect. The differences 

between Alternatives 2 and 3 are relatively less than the change proposed between Alternative 1 and 

Alternatives 2 and 3, and are focused solely around applying the Special Provisions for motorized access 

for dispersed camping to all routes open for motorized access for dispersed camping under General 

Provisions only. This change would have more potential impact on those people who prefer motorized 

access for dispersed camping in dry upland areas that have no evidence of previous use. Overall, the 

motorized access changes proposed in Alternatives 2 and 3 would reduce conflicts between motorized and 

non-motorized users, and reduce conflicts between private landowners and forest recreationists. The 

changes would also reduce people’s ability to access National Forest System lands from adjacent private 

lands, and would reduce the potential for inadvertent trespass from motorized access to landowners 

adjacent to National Forest System lands. 

Effects Common to All Alternatives

There would be no change to the areas that are currently closed to any kind of motorized access under any 

of the alternatives. Chapter 2 includes a more detailed description of the motorized access conditions that 

would not be affected by these decisions for the Forests as a whole. Under any alternative, there would be 

expected to be a continued increase in population and resultant demand for recreation and access to the 

National Forests by all of the identified communities of users. There is also expected to be a continued 

increase in residential and resort development adjacent to National Forest System lands, although at some 

reduced rates when compared to the past five years due to the current economic recession. Although none 

of the alternatives would designate or eliminate motorized routes, none of the alternatives would preclude 

the development or elimination of any existing designated route in the future.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 141

Alternative 1

Alternative 1 has the greatest amount of land that does not prohibit cross-country travel or motorized 

access for dispersed camping of all of the alternatives, although understanding where and under what 

conditions motorized access is allowed is cumbersome. This is because regulations vary widely across 

any given area and there is seldom sufficient signing maintained to cover the variety of areas with sitespecific regulation regarding motorized access. The general perception of motorized access on National 

Forest System lands is that they are “open” to motorized access unless posted “closed.” This perception 

has been enhanced by the federal courts, which are often reluctant to penalize motorized users that are in 

areas that may be closed to motorized access unless evidence is provided that those areas are clearly 

posted closed (Personal Communication, Dan Smith 02/2009). Signing of areas “closed” to motorized 

access is challenging, because signs are often vandalized or removed. However, under current policy and 

Forest Plan guidance, cross-country travel is prohibited in a number of places as shown on the map: 

Alternative 1 – Motorized Access off Designated Routes. Table 6 – Comparison of alternatives (Chapter 

2) displays the acres available under Alternative 1 for cross-country travel. 

An illustration of the current variety of motorized access prohibitions on the two Forests demonstrates the 

challenge of understanding the regulations related to motorized access on the two Forests. All of the 

Crooked River National Grassland and various management Areas across the two Forests such as the Old 

Growth Management Areas on the Ochoco National Forest are closed to all cross-country travel, 

including motorized access for dispersed camping. The Newberry National Volcanic Monument is closed 

to all OHVs both on and off designated routes, and is closed to all cross-country travel, except that 

motorized access for dispersed camping is not prohibited outside of the Crater Management Area. The 

East Ft. Rock OHV Trail system is closed to OHVs off of the designated trail system, but motorized 

access to highway-licensed vehicles is not prohibited off designated routes. On both Forests, all Research 

Management Areas are closed to all motorized access, except that in some cases there are open roads in 

those areas. In addition to these broad-scale regulations regarding motorized access, there are numerous 

localized closure orders to motorized access off designated routes, or to motorized access. These may be 

temporary because of resource damage or protection, or permanent seasonal or year-round closures to 

either specific types of vehicles or all motorized access such as for hunting season or to protect soils. 

Examples of these temporary closures are the McKay Creek and South Boundary areas on the Ochoco 

National Forest, and the B&B and Davis Fire areas on the Deschutes National Forest. These areas are

prominently signed at the entry point to the areas. The Opine Travel Management Area on the Deschutes 

National Forest has a localized closure for motorized access off of all designated routes year round and 

two seasonal use periods for motorized access on designated routes. There has been an increasing trend in 

the last decade to temporarily close localized areas to motorized access or to OHVs off designated routes 

because of concerns for resource protection (numerous closures in wildfire areas such as the Skeleton, 

B&B, Davis, Hash Rock) or as a result of resource damage (McKay, Ann’s Butte). If motorized use 

continues to increase as predicted, Alternative 1 would likewise result in a continued increase in this trend 

of regulatory signing and localized motorized closures. This could result in a perception by all users of an 

increasing amount of regulation of uses, and a continued incremental reduction in areas that are open to 

motorized access off of designated routes over time. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

142 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Effects on Communities of Interest

Motorized and Aging and Less Physically-Able Users

Motorized Access on Open Designated Roads

Alternative 1 would have no changed effect on this community of interests on existing designated open 

roads or motorized trails. The current system of identifying which roads are open and closed to motorized 

access is also challenging. In general, all motorized access on open roads is subject to the provisions of 

Oregon State law. From a practical standpoint, Central Oregon Combined Off-Highway Vehicle 

Operations, a combined Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management organization that is primarily 

responsible for managing the designated motorized trail systems in Central Oregon, has published some 

guidance that describes what Forest Service roads are open or closed to non-highway-legal motor 

vehicles. There is currently no single map that clearly identifies the designated roads open to motorized 

access by the class or type of vehicle (highway-legal or non-highway-legal) allowed on that road and 

season of use of the road. In some cases, signing does establish closures to certain class or types of 

vehicles and seasons of use. Typically, users that encounter the barrier of roads that are for highway-legal

vehicles only that are between existing routes that allow for non-highway-legal vehicles (if they 

understand they are not allowed to use a route), will go around and create an unauthorized trail if the 

vegetation and topography allow, or sometimes use a road that may be closed. Some OHV users have 

commented that, unless a road is paved, it is not clear to them that they cannot use the road. 

Motorized Access On and Off Designated Routes and Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

As illustrated in the alternative comparison table in chapter 2, about 39 percent of the Deschutes and 60 

percent of the Ochoco would not prohibit cross-country travel under current laws, policies, and 

regulations; and would allow for motorized access for dispersed camping on about 72 percent of the 

Deschutes and 69 percent of the Ochoco National Forests in Alternative 1. This would provide the 

greatest potential benefits to the communities of users for whom values are fulfilled by a greater area 

where motorized access off of designated routes and dispersed camping may be allowed, and would 

provide the most potential motorized access to areas of special value to motorized users and less 

physically able users. 

Alternative 1 would have the greatest amount of area available for motorized access opportunities for 

solitude and to seek out the challenges of nature and natural topography, whether individually or with 

family members; and to pursue activities from a motor vehicle such as hunting and gathering. Alternative 

1 would offer the most opportunities for utilizing a motorized vehicle to explore and discover parts of the 

forest that are new or especially valued, sometimes thought of as “secret” areas, with, perhaps, little 

evidence of past uses. Alternative 1 allows the most opportunity for those that are less physically-able to 

access places they believe they could not access without a motor vehicle such as long-established special 

hunting grounds, and would allow this group of people the greatest motorized access for retrieving down 

game of any of the alternatives.

The potential for conflicts to or within these user groups is relatively low in this alternative. Observations 

by field personnel and comments by some members of the Travel Management Subcommittee and 

Working Group indicate that there are times when the existing designated motorized trail systems seem 

crowded. The designated motorized road and trail systems would likely have the least potential for 

additional crowding under Alternative 1. Alternative 1 would offer the most opportunities for individual 

discovery, creation and utilization of unauthorized motorized trails in areas where cross-country travel is 

not now prohibited. Unless specific resource damage in an area were to be identified by the Forest 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 143

Service, existing unauthorized trails would continue to be utilized and created, thus creating or 

maintaining more motorized access connections for dispersing motorized activities throughout the forest. 

Motorized vehicles could continue to utilize roads that are closed to public access if the area around the 

road was not otherwise closed to motorized access. Many motorized recreation users that have been 

involved with this planning process believe strongly in the concept of shared uses, and are generally 

tolerant of other motorized and non-motorized users on designated motorized roads and trails or 

unauthorized motorized trails.

Although motorized use is predicted to increase in the future, based on the NVUM data, OHV users are 

not currently shown to be or predicted in the future to be the majority of recreational users of the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. 

Non-motorized Users and Environmental Advocates

Alternative 1 would continue to provide primary or exclusive non-motorized access to approximately 61 

percent of the Deschutes 40 percent of the Ochoco National Forest. Of the three alternatives considered, 

Alternative 1 offers the least potential benefits to the communities of interests that value peace and quiet 

in areas that are away from designated roads, or dislike noise, dust, or environmental impacts associated 

with cross-country travel, or with more areas that would allow for motorized access for dispersed 

camping away from designated open roads. These users would continue to experience current and likely 

increasing levels of disturbance in areas where cross-country travel is allowed where that use overlaps 

with areas where they are seeking peace and quiet in the forest, and could ultimately result in more 

displacement of these users from areas they have identified that hold special value to them. Some 

advocates may also seek localized agency action to restrict uses where they feel that motorized access is 

causing resource damage or disturbance to wildlife, such as the actions pursued by the “Friends of 

McKay” to have the McKay Creek area on the Ochoco National Forest closed to all cross-country travel. 

The potential for conflict in Alternative 1 with these user groups is very high. Many non-motorized users 

feel there is currently a high level of conflict because motorized users are using non-motorized trails in 

areas that do not prohibit cross-country travel, and that their experience is ruined by the evidence of past 

use, or the sounds and other disturbance of actual trail encounters. Based on field personnel observations, 

motorized access for dispersed camping increasingly involves OHV uses in and around dispersed 

campsites, which disrupts the peace and quiet that non-motorized users seek when dispersed camping. As 

noted earlier, non-motorized users and environmental advocates tend to be more susceptible to conflict 

from motorized users, and are less tolerant of these other uses, especially those that are fast, loud, and 

leave evidence of environmental disturbance from their activities.

Alternative 1 would have the greatest potential for broad-scale impacts from motorized uses on the

natural environment, and would therefore be the least compatible alternative with the attitudes, beliefs, 

and values of this community of interest. Based on projected recreation use trends, non-motorized users 

are likely to increasingly be in the majority in the central Oregon area.

Adjacent Landowners and Residents 

Motorized Access on Designated Routes

Most motorized access on designated routes within the wildland-urban interface would not change, 

although some change in motorized mixed-use or increased signing of roads not open to OHV use would 

likely continue to increase. Many of these roads are currently major forest or county roads that do not 

allow for motorized mixed-use. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

144 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Motorized Access off Designated Routes and Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

On the Deschutes National Forest, of the approximately 260,343 acres within the wildland-urban 

interface, approximately 30 percent is generally open to cross-country travel and about 70 percent 

currently has some limitation on motorized cross-country travel. On the Ochoco National Forest, the mix 

is roughly the same with about 74 percent of the approximately 24,929 acres within the wildland-urban 

interface on the Ochoco National Forest having some limitation on cross-country travel. This includes all 

categories of motorized access off designated routes of closed to all motorized access, closed to motorized 

access off designated routes, closed to OHV access and closed to OHV access off designated routes. On 

the Deschutes National Forest, approximately 33 percent of the total wildland-urban interface has some 

restriction related to motorized access for dispersed camping, while about 57 percent of the Ochoco 

National Forest has some restriction related to motorized access for dispersed camping within the 

wildland-urban interface. This includes areas closed to all motorized access or areas closed to motorized 

access for dispersed camping. Motorized access for dispersed camping along the Upper Deschutes and 

Metolius Wild and Scenic Rivers on the Deschutes National Forest (about 9,800, less than 1 percent of the 

Forest), is only allowed in designated sites. 

Population and rural residential development trends in lands adjacent to National Forest System lands in 

the four-county area indicates a continued increase in the next decade. This would likely also result in an 

increase of new unauthorized motorized trails created for access from private land parcels or communities 

onto Forest Service System lands for a variety of activities in Alternative 1. Conflicts between those who 

bought these homes and lands to be able to access National Forest System lands with a motor vehicle 

compared to those who purchased the lands for privacy, solitude, and the peace and quiet of the forest 

would continue and could increase in this alternative. For those who value the peace and quiet, as with the 

non-motorized user groups, motorized access off of designated routes and motorized access for dispersed 

camping from other National Forest users are likely to increase in Alternative 1. 

The potential for future conflict with adjacent large landowners such as Ochoco Lumber or ranches is also 

high in Alternative 1, because user notification of motorized access off of designated routes would 

continue to be subject to clear signing requirements. Areas that are within the wildland-urban interface 

that are currently open to motorized access also provide much higher potential for inadvertent trespass 

onto private lands unless they are well signed and posted. For those landowners who are opposed to 

cross-country travel adjacent to their lands, impacts from that use would also likely increase and they 

would continue to be impacted from noise, dust, and potential inadvertent trespass. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would significantly reduce the amount of area open for cross-country travel. About 

one percent of each of the Forests would remain open to motorized access off designated routes (crosscountry travel) in more than 200 designated areas across the two Forests. Alternatives 2 and 3 would also 

substantially reduce the amount of area available for motorized access for dispersed camping by about 46 

percent on the Deschutes and 52 percent on the Ochoco National Forest, although as noted earlier, most of 

this area is more than 300 feet away from an open designated road and therefore may not materially affect 

motorized access for dispersed camping. The primary difference between Alternatives 2 and 3 would be 

additional limits on motorized access for dispersed camping to only existing, designated, or defined sites 

in upland areas, some of which may be adjacent to private lands. 

Both alternatives would result in a major change from the current perceived policy of “open unless posted 

closed,” to “closed unless shown as open on the Motor Vehicle Use Map.” Having one regulation that 

would be applied everywhere on all National Forests would be much easier for most users to understand 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 145

and for managers and enforcers to explain than the myriad of regulations that apply currently on the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. Road signing would become much more important for people to 

identify where they are, but they would not have to rely only upon signed areas to know if the area were 

closed or open to motorized access. Users would have a greater need to be able to read and understand a 

map to understand where they could drive a motor vehicle in Alternatives 2 and 3 than in Alternative 1. 

Both Alternatives 2 and 3 would require users be able to read the Motor Vehicle Use Map in order to 

understand where motorized access is or is not allowed, including motorized access for dispersed 

camping. Alternatives 2 and 3 would result in a more uniform application locally, regionally, and 

nationally of where motorized access is allowed, and thus ultimately make it easier for people to 

understand where motorized access is allowed. Overall, Alternatives 2 and 3 would require an increased 

awareness and knowledge by all users of where a highway or non-highway-legal vehicle may be allowed, 

both on routes and adjacent to routes that allow for motorized access for dispersed camping under the new 

conditions of use.

Alternatives 2 and 3 would likely to result in fewer localized motorized use restrictions based on resource 

damage or conflicts with other resources than would Alternative 1, because more areas would be closed to 

motor vehicles. Alternatives 2 and 3 would not eliminate temporary localized closures or other public use 

restrictions because of wildfire or other special conditions. These would continue to require signing to 

notify people of additional restrictions. Alternatives 2 and 3 would likely also continue to have signing for 

the cooperative hunting areas, since these areas are posted by the Oregon Department of Fish and 

Wildlife, but they would not have to be posted because the Motor Vehicle Use Map will show any seasons 

of use for open designated roads.

Alternatives 2 and 3 would reduce the miles of road that are open to motorized access for non-highwaylegal vehicles by about 3 percent on the Deschutes and by about 8 percent on the Ochoco National Forest.

Alternative 3 would have additional restrictions on motorized access for dispersed camping of limiting 

motorized access for dispersed camping to existing, designated, or defined sites everywhere motorized 

access for dispersed camping is allowed when compared to Alternative 2 which would only have those 

restrictions in riparian areas or upland areas with sensitive resources. This would make the map and 

regulations related to motorized access for dispersed camping easier to understand because the same 

provisions would apply everywhere. However, the trade-off would be additional restrictions on people’s 

motorized access for dispersed camping.

Effects on Communities of Interest

Motorized and Aging and Less Physically-Able Users

Motorized Access on Open Designated Roads

Alternatives 2 and 3 would reduce the miles of road that are open to motorized access for non-highwaylegal vehicles by about three percent on the Deschutes and by about eight percent on the Ochoco National 

Forest. As described in the Public Safety and Recreation sections of this chapter in more detail, that could 

affect some non-highway-legal vehicle users that are traveling on designate roads if there are no alternate 

routes available that allow non-highway-legal vehicles or motorized trails access. The amount and 

location of these roads as shown on the Motorized Mixed Use Map in Appendix A-2 would eliminate 

some “loop” motorized riding opportunities (leaving a starting point on one route and returning on 

another) that are currently available,. Changing roads that currently allow for motorized mixed use to 

highway-legal vehicles only would also change how highway-legal only vehicles would have to access 

individual dead-end or spur roads, or groupings of roads that are fragmented by roads that only allow 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

146 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

highway-legal vehicles. Nearly all of the roads proposed to be changed to highway-legal vehicle use only 

currently provide access to these dead end or groupings of roads for non-highway-legal vehicles. This 

change of motorized mixed use access would require non-highway-legal vehicles to be hauled in order to 

access roads that would continue to allow for non-highway-legal vehicles. 

The Motor Vehicle Use Map that would be published for Alternatives 2 and 3 would also more clearly 

identify the open designated road system than Alternative 1, which relies on physical barricades, natural 

in growth, or posted signs to identify roads that have been put into storage and closed to motorized access 

or decommissioned. As noted in Alternative 1, motorized users and aging and less physically-able users 

may have been using roads that are not open to motorized access. Many of these roads may have offered 

opportunities for motorized access for dispersed camping, hunting, or gathering. Alternatives 2 and 3 

would limit these opportunities to at least some extent. In Alternatives 2 and 3, more than 80 percent of 

the National Forests acreage is within 1⁄2 mile of an open designated route. Although this indicates a 

relatively small percentage of the total acreage of the two Forests that would not be accessible by an open 

road to this community of users, the signed, open designated road system that would be published on 

every Motor Vehicle Use Map would not necessarily offer the same experience of self-discovery or 

primitive access as those areas they now access. 

Motorized Access off Designated Routes and Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

The effects of both Alternatives 2 and 3 are equally unfavorable to the communities of users that value 

undeveloped, primitive access off of designated routes – whether roads or trails – for motorized access 

opportunities for solitude and to seek out the challenges of nature and natural topography, whether 

individually or with family members; and to pursue activities from a motor vehicle such as hunting and 

gathering off of designated roads and trails. There would continue, under both of these alternatives, to be 

an extensive system of roads and motorized trails that provide for many challenging and primitive 

motorized experiences. These alternatives would continue to provide benefits to motorized users that 

value the challenge trail riding, or the opportunity for a variety of difficulty levels of designated trails 

systems with friends and family; more than those that prefer a more undeveloped motorized experience.

Alternatives 2 and 3 are more likely than Alternative 1 to contribute to the sense of crowding on the 

designated roads and trails and for motorized access for dispersed camping. Concentrating use into a 

smaller area could reduce the value that some trail riders’ experience, and could displace some users to 

public lands that are open to motorized access for dispersed camping. These alternatives are likely to have 

a higher potential for conflict between motorized users because of the concentrated uses. Although there 

is a continued demand for expanded motorized trail opportunities across both Forests, especially for Jeeptype vehicles, the urgency of this demand and peoples’ overall displeasure with the range of opportunities 

available to them is likely to be higher in Alternatives 2 and 3 than in Alternative 1. 

Some additional opportunities for motorized access for dispersed camping on both the Ochoco and 

Deschutes National Forest would be available in Alternatives 2 and 3. In Alternative 1, all cross-country 

travel in the Crooked River National Grassland, and in some other “Travel Management Areas” such as 

the B&B, Opine, and McKay Creek area is currently prohibited, including motorized access for dispersed 

camping. Alternatives 2 and 3 would allow additional opportunities for motorized access for dispersed 

camping along most open designated routes on the two Forests, including the Crooked River National 

Grassland, and in the Opine, B&B, and McKay Creek Travel Management Areas, although the conditions 

for motorized access for dispersed camping would vary for Alternative 2 compared to Alternative 3. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would represent an increased opportunity for motorized access for dispersed camping 

of about 70,000 acres (or about four percent increase) when compared with Alternative 1. Based on field 

personnel observation, many of these areas have been used for many years, and are highly valued areas 

for motorized access for dispersed camping.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 147

Non-motorized Users and Environmental Advocates

Alternatives 2 and 3 would both benefit those values that have been expressed by non-motorized users 

and environmental advocates. Prohibiting cross-country travel and limiting the areas and conditions for 

motorized access for dispersed camping would add a substantial amount of natural area free of the 

evidence of motorized users, especially OHVs. Although there is only about 20 percent of the National 

Forest System lands that are more than one-half mile from an open designated road, Alternatives 2 and 3 

are likely to significantly reduce the conflicts between motorized and non-motorized trail users. As 

described in the other resource sections of this chapter, most natural resources would be beneficially 

affected by the proposed changes to motorized access in Alternatives 2 and 3, and these benefits would 

reflect those values identified by environmental advocates as well. 

Alternative 3, because it would prohibit motorized access for dispersed camping in Inventoried Roadless 

Areas, would also favor those values that have been expressed by environmental advocate groups. 

Adjacent Landowners and Residents

Motorized Access on Designated Routes

Approximately nine miles of roads within wildland-urban interface would change from mixed motorized 

use to highway-legal vehicles only. This could have minor localized effects on residents. Similar to the 

effects of changing mixed use across the larger forest area, this change in road use is expected to be 

relatively minor.

Motorized Access off Designated Routes

Under Alternatives 2 and 3, all motorized access to National Forest System lands within the wildlandurban interface would be restricted to designated routes and areas. This would reduce the sights, sounds, 

and other evidence of motorized users within the wildland-urban interface and be very compatible with 

the values and lifestyles of landowners who purchased their land for peace and quiet and an undisturbed 

natural setting. For those landowners who value being able to access National Forest System lands from 

their backyards, their ability to access National Forest with a motor vehicle would be reduced when 

compared with the current condition because all motorized travel would be on designated routes only. 

This would be less compatible with the lifestyle values identified by some members of this community of 

interest when compared with Alternative 1. 

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Alternatives 2 and 3 would prohibit motorized access for dispersed camping on approximately 124,926 

acres or 48 percent of the total wildland-urban interface on the Deschutes National Forest, and 

approximately 9,089 acres, or 36 percent of the total wildland-urban interface on the Ochoco. 

Approximately 61,716 acres on the Deschutes and 2,926 acres on the Ochoco would allow for motorized 

access for dispersed camping either year-round or in seasonal use periods under the General or Special 

Provisions described in chapter 2. Alternatives 2 and 3 would designate approximately 19,298 acres on 

the Deschutes National Forest, and about 3,105 acres on the Ochoco as open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping that are currently closed to that use either year-round or seasonally under the General 

or Special Provisions described in chapter 2. Alternative 3 would limit all motorized access for dispersed 

camping to existing, designated, or defined sites. This would be a change from Alternative 2 for the 

Deschutes National Forest of approximately 42,418 acres that would only allow motorized access for 

dispersed camping to existing, designated or defined sites. On the Ochoco this would represent a change 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

148 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

of approximately 1,445 acres that would only allow motorized access to existing, designated, or defined 

sites within the wildland-urban interface. 

Most adjacent landowners and residents prefer less acres open to motorized access for dispersed camping 

adjacent to their homes or land, because it would increase their valued sense of privacy and reduce the 

potential for conflicts associated with the sights, sounds, and evidence of other people that have used 

motorized access for dispersed camping. Risk of fire from untended campfires that could threaten their 

homes or lives would also be reduced when fewer acres are available for motorized access for dispersed 

camping. Alternatives 2 and 3 would substantially reduce the acres within the wildland-urban interface 

that are open to motorized access for dispersed camping when compared to Alternative 1. Alternative 3 

would potentially even further reduce the amount of area that is actually used for motorized access for 

dispersed camping to just those existing, designated, or defined sites. However, there is not a complete 

inventory of dispersed sites in order to make any quantifiable comparison between Alternatives 2 and 3. 

Economic Effects

Alternatives 1-3 

None of the alternatives would significantly alter the range of recreation opportunities offered across the 

two Forests. OHV use is currently - and would be projected under all alternatives - to be a minor 

contributor to the overall recreation economy of the region. Although there is some economic data based 

on user surveys of the economic benefits of cross-country travel by OHV users, the data clearly shows 

that the contributions of this use is not a significant economic factor. The degree to which this economic 

benefit would be affected by changing the amount of area available for these users is even less significant, 

since many users are, and will continue to be attracted to the areas motorized roads and trails, or come to 

experience other uses and only utilize their OHVs as a secondary activity. The economic contributions 

from activities which may be affected by changes in conditions for motorized access for dispersed 

camping such as driving for pleasure, or non-consumptive viewing of wildlife would not generally be 

affected. 

Although some members of the public have said they will not hunt in an area with no motorized access, 

this is not anticipated to affect the overall economic contributions of hunting and fishing to the region’s 

economy because many hunters and anglers, and wildlife watchers would continue to be attracted to areas 

that limit motorized access. 

Inventoried Roadless Areas 

Executive Summary 

Inventoried Roadless Areas (IRAs) are areas that the Forest Service has identified that have potential for 

consideration as Congressionally-designated wilderness areas, and that may possess important values for 

landscape health and diversity in an increasingly developed landscape. 

There are approximately 137,000 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and 61,000 acres on the Ochoco 

National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland of Inventoried Roadless Areas (IRAs) totaling 

198,000 acres for both Forests and Grassland. Appendix A-11-12 are maps of the Inventoried Roadless 

Areas. Approximately 8,000 acres of IRA on the Ochoco National Forest on the Emigrant Ranger District 

are administered by the Malheur National Forest and are not covered under this analysis. Therefore, there 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 149

are approximately 53,000 acres of IRAs analyzed on the Ochoco National Forest with this environmental 

impact statement. 

Within the Inventoried Roadless Areas there are a variety of designated National Forest system roads and 

motorized trails, as well as roads under other jurisdictions such as county or public use roads. None of the 

alternatives considered in this FEIS would change motorized use of any of these roads or trails. As noted 

in chapter 1, these designated routes are incorporated into this decision in accordance with 36 CFR 

212.50(b). Opportunities for semi-primitive or primitive dispersed camping have historically been 

identified with some of the road systems throughout these areas.

This section evaluates the effects of the alternatives on the values of Inventoried Roadless Areas and on 

the eligibility of these areas to be considered for potential wilderness. In Alternatives 2 and 3, crosscountry travel would be prohibited in Inventoried Roadless Areas on both Forests and Grassland, with 

access limited to currently existing open designated roads and motorized trails. Alternatives 2 and 3 

would not change the opportunities for viewing primitive or undeveloped landscapes from designated 

routes and would reduce the impacts to other Inventoried Roadless Area values associated with motorized 

uses.

Alternative 2 would allow, under modified conditions, motorized access for dispersed camping on 

approximately 247 acres in the Deschutes Inventoried Roadless Areas and approximately 1,853 acres in 

the Ochoco Inventoried Roadless Areas subject to Special Provisions. Motorized access for dispersed 

camping would be limited to previously existing, designated, or defined sites within 300 feet of an open, 

designated road no closer than 30 feet to a stream, wetland, or water body. Alternative 3 would not allow 

for motorized access for dispersed camping within any IRAs. 

As noted earlier in this Environmental Impact Statement, the Crooked River Grassland is currently, closed 

to all cross-country travel. However, this rule has been applied to unregulated motorized cross-country 

travel rather than to dispersed campers accessing a camp with a highway-licensed motorized vehicle. 

Along Whychus Creek and in other areas on the Grassland, designated or defined sites have been 

established that protect the stream course and other resource values. Alternative 2 would provide specific 

conditions for motorized access to the designated, defined, or existing sites within about 1,296 acres of 

the Deschutes/Steelhead Canyon Inventoried Roadless Areas on the Grassland, while Alternative 3 would 

not allow motorized access to those sites.

Alternative 3 would not affect whether people could camp in these designated sites, but it would eliminate 

motorized access for more than a vehicle length off of the designated routes to those sites. The criteria 

found in FSH 1909.12, chapter 70, used to identify areas for potential wilderness are limited to size 

requirements and presence of roads. The alternatives considered in this EIS would not change the use or 

designation of any National Forest System road or motorized trail. No new motorized trails, roads or areas 

would be designated with any alternative. Therefore, there would be no effect on the potential for 

wilderness of any IRAs as a result of these alternatives.

Affected Environment

Overall, there are currently 137,000 acres of Inventoried Roadless Areas on the Deschutes National Forest 

and approximately 53,000 acres on the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland. 

This does not include approximately 8,000 acres of IRAs on the Emigrant Ranger District administered 

by the Malheur National Forest that will not be covered with this analysis. 

Inventoried Roadless Areas are often characterized by the following values or features (Federal Register 

January 12, 2001):
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

150 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

• High quality or undisturbed soil, water, and air: These three key resources are the foundation upon 

which other resource values and outputs depend. Healthy watersheds catch, store, and safely release 

water over time, protecting downstream communities from flooding; providing clean water for 

domestic, agricultural, and industrial uses; helping maintain abundant and healthy fish and wildlife

populations; and are the basis for many forms of outdoor recreation. 

• Sources of public drinking water: National Forest System lands contain watersheds that are important 

sources of public drinking water. Maintaining these areas in a relatively undisturbed condition saves 

downstream communities millions of dollars in water filtration costs.

• Diversity of plant and animal communities: Roadless areas are more likely than roaded areas to 

support greater ecosystem health, including the diversity of native and desired non-native plant and 

animal communities due to the absence of disturbances caused by roads and accompanying activities. 

Inventoried Roadless Areas also conserve native biodiversity by serving as a bulwark against the 

spread of non-native invasive species. Habitat for threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, and 

sensitive species and for those species dependent on large, undisturbed areas of land: roadless areas 

function as biological strongholds and refuges for many species.

• Habitat for threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, and sensitive species and for those species 

dependent on large, undisturbed areas of land: Roadless areas function as biological strongholds and 

refuges for many species. Roadless areas support a diversity of aquatic habitats and communities. 

• Primitive, Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized, and Semi-Primitive Motorized classes of dispersed 

recreation opportunities: Roadless areas often provide outstanding dispersed recreation opportunities 

such as hiking, camping, hunting, fishing, nordic skiing and canoeing. While they may have many 

wilderness-like attributes, unlike Wilderness, mountain bikes and other mechanized uses are often 

allowed.

• Reference landscapes: Knowledge about the effects of management activities over long periods of 

time and on large landscapes is very limited. Reference landscapes of relatively undisturbed areas 

serve as a barometer to measure the effects of development on other parts of the landscape. 

• Natural appearing landscapes with high scenic quality: High quality scenery, especially scenery with 

natural-appearing landscapes, is a primary reason that people choose to recreate.

• Traditional cultural properties and sacred sites: Traditional cultural properties are places, sites, 

structures, art or objects that played an important role in the cultural history of a group. Sacred sites 

are places with special religious significance to a group. Traditional cultural properties and sacred 

sites may be eligible for protection under the National Historic Preservation Act. However, many of 

them have not yet been inventoried, especially those that occur in Inventoried Roadless Areas. 

• Other locally identified unique characteristics: Roadless areas may offer other locally identified 

unique characteristics and values. Examples include uncommon geological formations, valued for 

their scientific and scenic qualities, or unique wetland complexes.

In addition to the roadless characteristics listed above, IRAs also are valued for their potential as 

Congressionally-designated wilderness areas. As such, there are five wilderness values identified in FSH 

1909.12, Land Management Planning Handbook, chapter 70 that are important to consider when 

proposing activities within IRAs:
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 151

• Natural: This quality evaluates the area’s ecological systems to determine if they are substantially free 

from the effects of modern civilization and generally appear to have been affected primarily by forces 

of nature.

• Undeveloped: This quality evaluates the degree to which the area is without permanent improvements 

or human habitation. 

• Outstanding Opportunities for Solitude or Primitive and Unconfined Recreation: This quality 

evaluates conditions that affect the capability to provide solitude or primitive and unconfined 

recreation. 

• Special Features and Values: This quality evaluates the areas capability to provide other values with 

ecological, geologic, scientific, educational, scenic, historical or cultural significance. 

• Manageability: This quality evaluates the area’s capability to be managed as a wilderness under the 

Wilderness Act considering Section 2(c) which defines a wilderness as “...has at least 5,000 acres of 

land or is of sufficient size to make practicable its preservation and use in an unimpaired condition...” 

IRAs on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests currently have some acreage open to motorized 

access off designated routes as well as acreage open to motorized access for dispersed camping, according 

to current travel management restrictions and land management allocations. These acreages, along with 

the corresponding percentages, are shown below in Table 42, Acres open to cross-country travel and for 

dispersed camping in Inventoried Roadless Areas.

Table 42. Acres open to cross-country travel and for dispersed camping in Inventoried Roadless Areas

Inventoried 

Roadless 

Area

Total 

Acres

Acres Open to 

Motorized Access 

Off Designated 

Routesa

Acres Openb to 

Motorized 

Access for 

Dispersed 

Camping

% of IRA Open 

to Motorized 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes

% of Area Open 

to Motorized 

Access for 

Dispersed 

Camping

Deschutes National Forest

Bearwallows 7,316 7,316 7,316 100% 100%

Bend Watershed 14,827 3,445 10,695 23% 72%

Charlton 7,047 0 6,386 0 90%

Maiden Peak 26,437 1,507 26,437 5.7% 100%

Metolius Breaks 11,141 49 6,100 44% 55%

Mount Jefferson 2,282 0 0 0 0

North Paulina 19,668 1,202 16,192 6% 82%

South Paulina 9,072 124 4,859 1.4% 54%

Three Sisters 7,686 1,603 6,607 21% 86%

Waldo 4,973 0 4,223 0 85%

West-South Bachelor 25,993 3,792 25,110 14.6% 97%

Grand Total 136,442 19,038 113,925 14% 75%

Ochoco National Forest

Cottonwood Creek 9,930 1,337 1,391 13.5% 14%

Deschutes/ Steelhead 

Canyon 10,781 0 0 0 0%

Green Mountain 6,612 6,224 6,255 94 95%

Lookout Mountain 14,116 687 706 4.9% 5%

Rock Creek 11,389 4,332 4,417 38% 39%

Grand Total 52,828c 12,580 12,769 24% 31%

a - Acreages are based on GIS analysis layers that include designations from previous travel management decisions and temporary 

public use restrictions because of specific site conditions. Motorized access acres have been rounded.

b - May include seasonal use periods and may overlap with acreages identified as open to motorized access off of designated 

routes.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

152 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

c - Total acreage for the Ochoco National Forest IRAs does not include approximately 8,000 acres of IRA on the Emigrant Ranger 

District, Ochoco National Forest administered by the Malheur National Forest.

Cross-country travel has the potential to impact the values that these roadless areas may possess and 

preserve, such as primitive recreation opportunities, or undisturbed soil and water resources. All the 

alternatives have been evaluated against the criteria for Inventoried Roadless Areas and potential 

wilderness designation. This is summarized at the end of this section in Table 46, summary of Inventoried 

Roadless Area alternative impacts by criteria.

National Forest System Roads in IRAs

In 1972, the Forest Service initiated a review of National Forest System roadless areas generally larger 

than 5,000 acres to determine their suitability for inclusion in the National Wilderness Preservation 

System. A second review was completed in 1979. Since 1979, Congress has designated some of these 

roadless areas as Wilderness. The remaining Inventoried Roadless Areas were identified for specific 

management direction under Land and Resource Management Plans (Forest Plans) completed in the 

1980s and 1990s. The direction contained within the Forest Plans allowed, under certain circumstances, 

roads to be constructed. Roads may have been constructed to provide access for timber sales, to provide 

access to private land adjacent to roadless areas and for other management activities. In some cases, 

especially on the Grassland, there are county and state roads crossing Inventoried Roadless Areas. Due to 

past management decisions, a portion of Inventoried Roadless Areas contain existing open and closed 

roads which are consistent with current direction. No new system roads have been constructed within 

Inventoried Roadless Areas on either forest since 2000.

Roads that are maintenance level 1 are closed to motorized access, unless they occur in an area that is 

open to motorized access off designated routes. If they do occur in such an area, those maintenance level 

1 routes are typically not specifically prohibited from motorized use unless they are physically blocked to 

prevent such use. Maintenance level 2 roads are open to non-highway-legal as well as highway-legal 

vehicles, and maintenance level 3 roads are open to highway-legal vehicles only. Table 43 displays the 

current miles of National Forest system roads in IRAs on the Forests. 

Table 43. Miles of National Forest System Roads within Inventoried Roadless Areas

Inventoried Roadless Area Miles of MLa 1 

Roads in IRA

Miles of ML 2 

Roads in IRA

Miles of ML 3 

Roads in IRA Total Miles in IRA

Deschutes National Forest

Bearwallows 0 0.42 0 0.42

Bend Watershed 0.97 0 0 0.97

Maiden Peak 0.35 0 0 0.35

Metolius Breaks 0.37 0.52 0 0.89

South Paulina 1.01 0.03 0 1.04

Three Sisters 0.93 1.67 0 2.60

Waldo 0.77 0 0 0.77

West-South Bachelor 0 0.06 0 0.06

Grand Total 4.41 2.27 0 6.68

Ochoco National Forest

Cottonwood Creek .8 .6 0 1.4

Deschutes/ Steelhead Canyon 9.2 13.3 .3 22.7

Green Mountain 0 .3 0 .3

Lookout Mountain .3 1.5 0 1.8

Rock Creek 3.2 1.6 0 4.8

Grand Total 13.4 17.4 .3 31.1

a - Maintenance Level
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 153

The Deschutes/Steelhead Canyon IRA is notably different from most of the IRAs on the two National 

Forests. It is the only IRA on the Crooked River National Grassland. It is the only IRA that surrounds 

public lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) that include a BLM designated 

Wilderness Study Area. Like much of the Grassland and the adjacent public lands administered by the 

BLM, it is surrounded, fragmented, and highly influenced by adjacent private lands. Besides the 13 miles 

of designated National Forest System roads, there are about 11 miles of Public Use or Jefferson County 

roads. Most of the roads within the IRA provide access to private lands. This area, including adjacent 

BLM –administered public lands, has been identified as an area of interest and is described in more detail 

later in this section. 

National Forest Designated Motorized Trails in IRA

There are two existing designated motorized trail systems with portions of trails within inventoried 

roadless areas (IRA). 

On the Deschutes National Forest, the Edison Butte Trail System is approximately 25 miles with 13.8 

miles within the West-South Bachelor Inventoried Roadless Area. The trail is open from April 1 through 

November 30 but the recommended riding season is late June through October because of the high 

elevation and tendency to have snow covering the trail into the riding season. The trail system is open to 

Class I (quads), Class II (vehicles under 80 inches wide), and Class III (motorcycles). Two shelters 

currently are available for use on the trail system with one located within the IRA (Kwoll Butte).

On the Ochoco National Forest, the Green Mountain trail system is 8.5 miles with approximately 0.2 

miles within the Green Mountain Inventoried Roadless Area. This trail is open for Class I (quads) and 

Class III (motorcycles) vehicles. The trail is open year round unless closed due to snow, high fire danger, 

or wet soil conditions. 

Analysis of Environmental Effects

The unique qualities of IRAs, as described above, can be affected by motorized use. The degree to which 

those qualities may be affected by motorized use can be influenced by the amount of area that is open to 

motorized access. For all of these resources, however, the amount and frequency of use is one of the 

primary factors related to the extent and intensity of impacts. In Inventoried Roadless Areas, as in other 

areas, roads are often created by repeated motorized use off designated routes. The degree to which these 

user-created routes are developed is not known. However, it is assumed that motorized access would be 

limited by steep terrain, the amount and density of vegetation that would impede cross country travel and 

the proximity to existing open roads. 

In addition, as recreation trends analyses predict, continued population growth and increased use of 

motorized vehicles could incrementally increase the demand and use of IRAs beyond current conditions. 

Many forest users seeking solitude are looking in remote backcountry settings; this trend may continue, or 

even increase as populations age. If more people are able to seek out backcountry areas off designated 

routes, more user-created routes would occur. This could affect the roadless character of an area or a 

portion of the area. However, if motorized access stays dispersed and at relatively low use levels, there is 

a lower likelihood that user-created routes would occur and impact the values of the IRAs. There is 

insufficient information to be able to reliably predict amounts or locations of potential increase in uses. 

The effects of the alternatives on Inventoried Roadless Area criteria are detailed in Table 46. In general, 

impacts of motorized use within IRAs would be greatest in Alternative 1 because existing management 

direction would continue to allow motorized access and cross-country travel in some IRAs for a total of 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

154 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

31,618 acres on both Forests and Grassland. Motorized access on existing open roads would continue 

under all alternatives and there is no change between alternatives. Alternatives 2 and 3 would eliminate 

cross-country travel in all IRAs. Alternative 2 would maintain a total of 2,100 acres of motorized access 

for dispersed camping in five IRAs on the Deschutes National Forest and on all IRAs on the Ochoco 

National Forest. This access is subject to Special Provisions and therefore, dispersed camping would be 

limited to those sites already in existence and defined or designated. No new routes or sites would be 

designated under Alternative 2. Alternative 3 would not designate any motorized access for dispersed 

camping in any IRA on either National Forest. Motorized access under Alternative 3 would be limited to 

existing open designated routes. More specific impacts by IRA criteria have been described in Table 46. 

Alternative 1

Alternative 1 could have an effect on the roadless and potential wilderness characteristics of the IRAs by 

continuing to allow cross-country travel, especially in areas that would not impede access, and where 

current Forest Plan management direction allows motorized access. The majority of IRAs on the 

Deschutes National Forest are located on the Cascade Crest adjacent to existing wilderness areas or at 

higher elevations with steeper slopes and dense vegetation and ground slash. These site conditions do not 

foster significant amounts of motorized access because of the work necessary to pioneer a trail. Therefore, 

it is expected that motorized access within IRAs on the Deschutes would be limited to areas of easier 

travel adjacent to existing open roads. Other areas on the Ochoco National Forest are on more level 

ground with little impeding vegetation and would provide easier access for cross country travel of 

motorized vehicles. 

The expected trend is for increases in motorized use in general on the Forests and Grassland and a 

proportional increase in motorized access to dispersed camping off designated routes in the IRAs would 

be expected. This use could impact unroaded characteristics such as the primitive recreation experience, 

soil, water, and air quality, with increased potential for erosion, dust, noise, and other environmental 

impacts. These impacts are more likely to occur within a certain distance of an existing open road and 

where site conditions allow for cross country travel. It is not likely that an entire IRA would become so 

roaded or impacted that the IRA would not be eligible to be considered as potential wilderness because of 

the extent of interior area away from open roads and inability to easily travel without a pioneered road. 

See Table 46 for the expected impacts by IRA criteria for each alternative. 

Effects Common to Alternatives 2 and 3 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would prohibit cross-country travel. Both action alternatives would reduce the 

impacts (such as those described above under Alternative 1) on Inventoried Roadless Area characteristics 

that result from cross country motorized use. These prohibitions would also maintain existing roadless 

and potential wilderness characteristics such as natural-appearing landscapes, undeveloped and primitive 

recreation opportunities, as no new designated routes would be created in the roadless landscape. The 

existing designated trail systems would continue to be utilized as under the no-action alternative. These 

designated trail systems would not be impacted by the action alternatives in any way. The systems have 

already been designated as motorized trails and no further action is proposed with this FEIS. Since the 

motorized trails are not roads, presence or use of the motorized trials would not affect the Inventoried 

Roadless Areas consideration as a potential wilderness area and implementation of either action 

alternative would not change this consideration. No new roads or areas would be designated with either 

Alternative 2 or 3. Therefore the IRAs would continue to be available for consideration as potential 

wilderness areas with no additional impacts anticipated.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 155

Alternatives 2 and 3 would prohibit motorized access for dispersed camping beyond 300 feet of the 

centerline of an open designated route. This would further reduce the impacts on Inventoried Roadless 

Area characteristics, especially in interior areas farther than 300 feet.

Alternative 2

Alternative 2 would designate motorized access for dispersed camping within 300 feet from a designated 

route under Special Provisions only. Therefore, there would be no change from Alternative 1 in the 

amount of existing, defined or designated sites for dispersed camping with a motorized vehicle. This 

approach would concentrate motorized access for dispersed camping within a measured area near an 

existing designated route. No new areas or access routes would be developed as the Special Provisions 

allow dispersed camping access to already existing, defined or designated sites only. 

However, one change from existing closed areas would be the expected increase in motorized access for 

dispersed camping in the Deschutes/Steelhead Canyon IRA on the Crooked River National Grassland. A 

1,296-acre increase in motorized access to dispersed camping off designated routes in this IRA could have 

a moderate impact to characteristics such as the primitive recreation experience or soil, water, air quality, 

with increased erosion, dust, and noise potential within 300 feet of an open designated route. However, 

because the area under the current condition is closed to motorized access and under Alternative 2 

motorized access for dispersed camping is limited to existing, defined or designated sites; it is not likely 

that use will increase over what is currently occurring. All motorized access for dispersed camping would 

be limited to the Special Provisions and no new dispersed camping sites would be developed nor would 

any new access roads be authorized.

In general, Alternative 2 would not impact the ability of the IRA to be considered for a potential 

wilderness, and would likely result in beneficial impacts over the no-action alternative because motorized 

access would be limited to within 300 feet of roads and only to those sites already existing, designated, or 

defined for dispersed camping. See Table 44 for a summary of acreage figures for each IRA.

Table 44. Alternative 2 - acres open to cross-country travel and for dispersed camping in inventoried roadless 

areas 

Inventoried Roadless 

Area

Total 

Acres

Acres Open to 

Cross-country 

travela

Acres Openb to 

Motorized 

Access for 

Dispersed 

Camping

% of IRA Open 

to Cross-country 

travel

% of Area Open 

to Motorized 

Access for 

Dispersed 

Camping

Deschutes National Forest

Bearwallows 7,316 0 20 0% 0.27%

Bend Watershed 14,827 0 0 0% 0%

Charlton 7,047 0 0 0% 0%

Maiden Peak 26,437 0 0 0% 0%

Metolius Breaks 11,141 0 16 0% 0.14%

Mount Jefferson 2,282 0 0 0% 0%

North Paulina 19,668 0 0 0% 0%

South Paulina 9,072 0 1 0% 0.01%

Three Sisters 7,686 0 190 0% 2.47%

Waldo 4,973 0 0 0% 0%

West-South Bachelor 25,993 0 20 0% 0.08%

Grand Total 136,442 0 247 0% 0.18%

Ochoco National Forest

Cottonwood Creek 9,930 0 128 0% 1.29%
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

156 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Inventoried Roadless 

Area

Total 

Acres

Acres Open to 

Cross-country 

travela

Acres Openb to 

Motorized 

Access for 

Dispersed 

Camping

% of IRA Open 

to Cross-country 

travel

% of Area Open 

to Motorized 

Access for 

Dispersed 

Camping

Deschutes/ Steelhead 

Canyon 10,781 0 1,296 0% 8.32%

Green Mountain 6,612 0 63 0% 0.95%

Lookout Mountain 14,116 0 81 0% 0.57%

Rock Creek 11,389 0 285 0% 2.5%

Grand Total 52,828 0 1,853 0% 3.5%

a - Acreages are based on GIS analysis layers that include designations from previous travel management decisions and temporary 

public use restrictions because of specific site conditions. Motorized access acres have been rounded

b - May include seasonal use periods

Alternative 3

Alternative 3 would not allow cross-country travel nor allow motorized access for dispersed camping in 

any IRA on the Forests or Grassland. Prohibiting cross-country travel would result in fewer impacts on 

resource values such as soil, water, and air, and would reduce the occurrence of effects such as erosion 

and dust. This would have a beneficial effect on all roadless and potential wilderness characteristics as 

existing impacted areas and vegetation would be expected to recover naturally. No additional or new areas 

would be impacted. Motorized use would be limited to existing open roads within the IRAs. See Table 45

for a summary of acreage figures for each IRA.

Table 45. Alternative 3 - acres open to cross-country travel and for dispersed camping in inventoried roadless 

areas 

Inventoried

Roadless Area

Total 

Acres

Acres Open to 

Cross-country 

travel

Acres Open to 

Motorized 

Access for 

Dispersed 

Camping

% of IRA Open 

to Cross-country 

travel

% of Area Open 

to Motorized 

Access for 

Dispersed 

Camping

Deschutes National Forest

Bearwallows 7,316 0 0 0% 0%

Bend Watershed 14,827 0 0 0% 0%

Charlton 7,047 0 0 0% 0%

Maiden Peak 26,437 0 0 0% 0%

Metolius Breaks 11,141 0 0 0% 0%

Mount Jefferson 2,282 0 0 0% 0%

North Paulina 19,668 0 0 0% 0%

South Paulina 9,072 0 0 0% 0%

Three Sisters 7,686 0 0 0% 0%

Waldo 4,973 0 0 0% 0%

West-South Bachelor 25,993 0 0 0% 0%

Grand Total 136,442 0 0 0% 0%

Ochoco National Forest

Cottonwood Creek 9,930 0 0 0% 0%

Deschutes/ Steelhead 

Canyon 10,781 0 0 0% 0%

Green Mountain 6,612 0 0 0% 0%

Lookout Mountain 14,116 0 0 0% 0%

Rock Creek 11,389 0 0 0% 0%

Grand Total 52,828 0 0 0% 0%
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 157

Table 46. Summary of Inventoried Roadless Area alternative impacts by criteria

Inventoried Roadless Area 

Criteria Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

High quality or undisturbed 

soil, water, and air

There would be no change to any designated road or trail system. Effects to IRAs from designated road or motorized trail systems 

would continue. Since OHV use is limited to the designated trails where the trails are currently, continued use of the designated 

motorized trail systems would not be different between alternatives. There are some impacts to air quality and to soils within the 

road or trail bed. Effects of continued use of roads proximate to waterways are described in the hydrology section of this chapter, 

and would be similar for roads proximate to waterways within IRAs. There are no water features in the Edison or Green Mountain 

Trail Systems within IRAs. Due to the proximity of these motorized trails to water features and the permeability of soils in the Trail 

systems, it is unlikely that runoff during rainstorms would affect water quality.

High quality or undisturbed soil, water and 

air would be continued especially in IRAs 

without roads or motorized trails and away 

from roads or motorized trails. Pioneering 

of roads or trails could continue to occur for 

dispersed camping or other purposes and 

new areas could be affected. The 

frequency or intensity of these potential 

uses cannot be reliably predicted. 

Since no cross-country travel would be 

allowed, impacts would be limited to within 

300 feet of designated routes already 

existing within IRAs. 

In the Deschutes / Steelhead IRA on the 

Crooked River National Grassland, an 

area currently closed, would be open to 

motorized access for dispersed camping 

within 300 feet of a designated route and 

limited to existing defined or designated 

sites. 

Areas currently impacted would be 

expected to recover to a more natural 

state. Those areas not impacted, would 

continue to provide high quality 

undisturbed soil, water and air resources 

under current conditions. It should be 

noted however, that due to high fuel 

loadings, many of the IRAs are at risk for 

high intensity, stand replacement fires that 

could impact soil, water and air. Because 

Alternative 3 limits motorized access to 

existing roads only, the risk of human 

caused starts is lowered because of the 

reduced motorized access. Access by nonmotorized methods has not been restricted 

and human caused fire starts could still 

occur.

Sources of public drinking 

water

The Bend Watershed provides public drinking water for the city of Bend. It is within the Bend Watershed IRA. Sources of public 

drinking water would continue to be protected under all alternatives. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

158 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Inventoried Roadless Area 

Criteria Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Diversity of plant and 

animal communities

Roads and motorized trails can fragment large blocks of otherwise unfragmented areas. The greater amount of roads and trails 

within the IRA, the greater this potential for fragmentation is. The Deschutes/Steelhead and West-Mt Bachelor IRAs have the 

greatest amount of roads and motorized trails and are therefore the most likely to d impact species that are inhibited by travel 

across the bare ground of the trail system. However, both of these IRAs continue to have large blocks of undisturbed habitat 

sufficient to sustain species that are less likely to cross the bare ground of the trail. Motorized vehicles are prohibited from venturing 

off the designated trails system, so impacts beyond the trail are limited to disturbance from noise and presence of motorized

vehicles and are similar to impacts of vehicles on roads described for wildlife species in the Wildlife section of this FEIS. Since only 

0.2 miles of motorized trail are in the Green Mountain Inventoried Roadless Area, it is likely that impacts to wildlife species are less 

than in the Edison trail system but could occur in the smaller area. For both IRAs, since vehicles are prohibited from cross-country 

travel off of the designated motorized trail system, it is likely that impacts to plant diversity are very low as large blocks of 

undisturbed areas remain unaffected by the trails. There are no invasive species known to occur associated with the trail systems. 

Invasive plant species are known to occur along roads of various jurisdiction on the Crooked River Grassland–

Because of the difficulty of motorized travel 

in many of the IRAs, the diversity of plant 

and animal communities most impacts 

would be expected to be near existing 

designated roads. 

Alternative 2 would restrict motorized 

access off designated routes, thereby 

reducing the amount of ground potentially 

disturbed. Motorized access would be 

limited to designated routes already open 

under current management direction. 

Motorized access for dispersed camping 

would be limited to existing, defined, or 

designated sites and would not impact any 

additional acres. 

Alternative 3 would limit motorized access 

to existing roads within IRAs. There would 

be no motorized access for dispersed 

camping, so those areas currently being 

used would eventually recover naturally, 

and fallen trees would lead to areas 

becoming less accessible, thus impacted, 

by motorized activities. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 159

Inventoried Roadless Area 

Criteria Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Habitat for threatened, 

endangered, proposed, 

candidate, and sensitive 

species and for those 

species dependent on 

large, undisturbed areas of 

land

The Edison Trail System fragments habitat for those species requiring large, undisturbed areas of land in the eastern section of the 

West – South Bachelor Inventoried Roadless Area. It is likely that this impact has already occurred and those species requiring 

large expanses of undisturbed areas have already been displaced. The continued use of the trail would continue the displacement 

that is currently occurring. A large expanse of undisturbed area is still available in the western portion of the IRA. The Green 

Mountain trail system with 0.2 miles of trail within the inventoried roadless area would have much less impacts on the undisturbed 

area of the Inventoried Roadless area because of the much shorter length of trail. The majority of the Green Mountain Inventoried 

Roadless Area would remain unfragmented and habitat would be provided

Habitat for threatened, endangered, 

proposed, candidate, and sensitive species 

would still be provided in IRAs, especially 

in those IRAs with no existing roads and for 

those with roads, it is likely impacts would 

be limited to within a certain distance from 

the road based on terrain and vegetation 

conditions. Large areas of undisturbed land 

would still be available for those species 

needing such habitat.

Alternative 2 would limit motorized 

activities to within 300 feet of roads and to 

areas where dispersed campsites have 

already been developed. Habitat for 

threatened, endangered, proposed, 

candidate, and sensitive species would still 

be provided in IRAs, especially in those 

IRAs with no existing roads, and for those 

with roads it is likely impacts would be 

limited to within a certain distance from the 

road based on terrain and vegetation 

conditions. Large areas of undisturbed 

land would still be available for those 

species needing such habitat.

Alternative 3 would not allow any 

motorized access off designated routes, 

therefore habitat for threatened, 

endangered, proposed, candidate, and 

sensitive species would still be provided in 

IRAs, and areas where impacts have 

occurred would eventually recover. Large 

areas of undisturbed land would still be 

available for those species needing such 

habitat.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

160 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Inventoried Roadless Area 

Criteria Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Primitive, Semi-Primitive 

Non-Motorized, and SemiPrimitive Motorized classes 

of dispersed recreation

Designated roads within the IRAs would continue to provide opportunities to access remote areas. This would provide views of 

unroaded areas from those roads for motorized users and provide opportunities for non-motorized access to primitive or semiprimitive classes of recreation. The Edison Trail System (13.8 miles) within the IRA provides motorized recreational users with the 

opportunity to travel through a semi-primitive motorized area to view a landscape with little evidence of human impact except for the 

trail itself. Primitive and semi-primitive non-motorized qualities are present more in the western portion of the West-South Bachelor 

IRA where no motorized trails have been designated. The 0.2 miles in the Green Mountain IRA offer similar conditions except on a 

much reduced scale because of the limited length of trail within the IRA.

This alternative would continue to allow 

incidental cross country travel and 

dispersed camping utilizing motorized 

vehicles, especially near existing open 

roads. It is unlikely that motorized access 

would occur in the interior of the larger 

IRAs because of natural terrain barriers 

and dense vegetation. It is not likely that 

this use would be large and cause 

degradation of dispersed recreational 

experience. Semi-primitive motorized 

dispersed recreation would not be affected 

by this alternative.

This alternative would provide primitive 

and semi-primitive non-motorized 

dispersed recreation opportunities beyond 

300 feet from system roads. This 

alternative would improve conditions over 

the no action alternative by prohibiting 

motorized access off designated routes. 

Semi-primitive motorized dispersed 

camping would be limited to existing open 

roads and access to existing, designated, 

or defined campsites. Therefore there 

would be a reduction in the areas available

for motorized recreation access. 

This alternative would provide primitive 

and semi-primitive non-motorized 

dispersed recreation in all IRAs. Motorized 

use would be limited to existing open 

roads. There would be no motorized 

access to dispersed campsites, even 

existing campsites, with this alternative. 

Recreationists would be limited to parking 

their vehicle on the roadside and would not 

be able to enter the IRA except on an open 

road. Therefore there would be a reduction 

in the amount of acres available for 

motorized access for dispersed camping 

over Alternatives 1 and 2. No new 

motorized routes would be designated. 

Reference landscapes Reference landscapes within IRAs would still be provided, especially where roads are not located within IRAs. Motorized trail 

systems are only within a small portion of the IRA. 

Natural appearing 

landscapes with high 

scenic quality

Except for the trails themselves, natural appearing landscapes with high scenic quality is readily evident and remains within both 

inventoried roadless areas. The trails themselves provide evidence of human use and may detract from the natural appearing 

landscape when viewed from the trail

There would be little change to the current 

natural appearing landscape within the 

IRAs with the implementation of this 

alternative. In areas with existing roads, the 

trend of increasing use and continued 

motorized access could increase the 

evidence of human use. However, this 

would be limited to pioneered roads and 

some ground disturbance near existing 

roads and where natural terrain conditions 

and vegetation allow cross country travel. It 

is unlikely that entire IRAs would be 

negatively affected.

There would be little change to the current 

natural appearing landscape within the 

IRAs with the implementation of this 

alternative. Access would be limited to 

existing open roads and to access 

dispersed campsites within 300 feet of 

roads. No additional impacts would occur 

as no new dispersed camping access 

would be permitted under this alternative. 

Natural appearing landscapes would be 

available, especially beyond 300 feet from 

open roads. 

There would be little change to the current 

natural appearing landscape within the 

IRAs with the implementation of this 

alternative. Over time, existing access 

routes would no longer be used and 

revegetation would occur, with more 

natural appearing landscapes in the future. 

The only motorized access would be on 

existing designated routes.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 161

Inventoried Roadless Area 

Criteria Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Traditional cultural 

properties and sacred sites

Neither motorized trail system impacts traditional cultural properties or sacred sites Where present,

Traditional cultural properties and sacred 

sites would continue to be vulnerable to 

motorized access where current 

management direction allows motorized 

access off designated routes and travel to 

campsites where the sites are near 

currently open roads. It is unlikely that 

motorized access would occur in the 

interior of IRAs that are not currently 

roaded. 

Traditional cultural properties and sacred 

sites would be protected under this 

alternative because no new motorized 

dispersed camp sites would be allowed. 

Existing dispersed campsites would be 

closed if cultural properties were 

discovered that could be impacted by 

motorized and dispersed camping 

activities.

Traditional cultural properties and sacred 

sites would be protected under this 

alternative because no motorized access 

would be allowed except on currently 

designated routes. Motorized access to 

existing dispersed campsites would be 

eliminated and cultural properties and sites 

would be protected from motorized use. 

Other locally identified 

unique characteristics

No other locally identified unique characteristics have been identified for these Inventoried Roadless Areas

Locally identified unique characteristics 

would not be affected by this alternative 

unless the characteristic only occurred near 

open roads. Cross country travel could still 

occur but would likely occur in areas where 

terrain and vegetation conditions permitted 

motorized travel.

Locally identified unique characteristics 

would not be affected by this alternative 

because the amount of designated 

motorized access would be limited to 

within 300 feet of designated routes and 

existing, designated or defined sites. 

Motorized access off designated routes 

would not be permitted so interior IRAs 

would remain as they current exist or 

impacts from past motorized use would 

improve with natural revegetation.

Locally identified unique characteristics 

would not be affected by this alternative 

because the amount of designated 

motorized access would be limited to 

designated routes. Motorized access for 

dispersed camping and motorized access 

off designated routes would not be 

permitted so the interior of IRAs would 

remain as they current exist. Impacts from 

past motorized use would be expected to 

naturally recover. 

Potential Wilderness Criteria

The criteria found in FSH 1909.12, chapter 70, used to identify areas for potential wilderness are limited to size requirements and presence of roads. 

The potential for IRAs to meet criteria in FSH would not be affected by any alternative. The existing motorized trail systems are not considered roads, 

and therefore the inventoried roadless areas would still be available for consideration as a potential wilderness area.

Natural quality

Overall, natural qualities would be 

maintained with Alternative 1 because 

while cross country motorized travel is 

allowed it is not likely to occur at high levels 

throughout the entire IRA. 

Use is expected in areas near designated 

routes adjacent to IRAs, but impacts are 

not expected to prevent the area from 

being considered as a potential wilderness 

area. 

Natural qualities would be maintained by 

this alternative as cross country motorized 

travel would be prohibited. The alternative 

would allow motorized access for 

dispersed camping on already existing, 

defined and designated camp sites. This 

would limit impacts to within 300 feet of 

currently open roads and no new areas 

would be developed. Interior IRA areas 

would maintain their natural qualities and 

would not incur motorized impacts.

Natural qualities would be maintained by 

this alternative as motorized access off 

designated routes and motorized access 

for dispersed camping would be prohibited. 

Interior IRA areas would maintain their 

natural qualities and would not incur 

motorized impacts. Areas adjacent to open 

roads impacted by previous motorized 

access would naturally revegetate and 

impacts would diminish.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

162 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Inventoried Roadless Area 

Criteria Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Undeveloped quality

Under this alternative, it is expected that 

motorized access would continue to occur 

beyond existing roads and that people 

would pioneer roads into areas for 

camping, hunting, recreation and for other 

interests. Access would be limited by 

natural terrain features and vegetation 

density and likely would not impact areas 

away from existing roads. 

Undeveloped qualities would be slightly 

impacted by this alternative but would be 

limited to motorized access for dispersed 

camping in sites that are already existing 

or defined. Therefore, no additional 

impacts would be expected than are 

already currently occurring. 

Undeveloped qualities would be 

maintained by Alternative 3 because 

motorized access would be limited to 

existing roads within IRAs. Cross-country 

travel and motorized access for dispersed 

camping would be prohibited.

Outstanding opportunities 

for solitude or primitive 

and unconfined recreation

Opportunities for solitude or primitive and 

unconfined recreation would continue with 

this alternative, especially away from 

existing roads and in those IRAs with no 

roads. Motorized access would continue to 

occur but would be limited by natural 

terrain and vegetation density. 

Opportunities for solitude or primitive and 

unconfined recreation would be improved 

over the existing condition with this 

alternative as motorized access would be 

limited to within 300 feet of designated 

routes, motorized access for dispersed 

camping limited to existing, designated, or 

defined sites. Impacts to vegetation 

beyond 300 feet would be expected to 

recover naturally. 

Opportunities for solitude or primitive and 

unconfined recreation would be maintained 

with this alternative as motorized access 

would be limited to existing roads. 

Motorized access off designated routes

and motorized access for dispersed 

camping would be prohibited.

Special features and values

Special features and values would be 

maintained, especially in areas that limit 

motorized access because of natural 

terrain barriers and dense vegetation. In 

areas where a more open and level ground 

occurs, motorized vehicle use may be more 

apparent, especially in the future, as 

expected trends in motorized recreation 

use increase. However, it is still unlikely 

that expected increases would result in 

degradation of special features of IRAs as 

the majority of IRAs are not presently 

roaded and do not afford easy access.

Special features and values would be 

maintained, especially 300 feet beyond 

designated routes where existing, defined 

or designated dispersed camp sites 

already occur. Within 300 feet of existing 

open roads and where campsites already 

occur, evidence of human use maybe 

apparent in the form of vehicle tracks, 

dust, soil disturbance and loss of 

vegetative cover. 

Special features and values would be 

maintained as they currently exist with this 

alternative because no motorized access 

would be allowed except on designated 

routes. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 163

Inventoried Roadless Area 

Criteria Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Manageability

Manageability would not be affected. There 

would be no new roads or access 

developed under this alternative. Cross 

country travel is allowed in some IRAs and 

would be expected to continue and 

increase in some areas. Some motorized 

access for dispersed camping may be 

developed as populations increase in the 

local area and more people are interested 

in accessing areas by motor vehicles. 

However, access would be limited by 

natural terrain and vegetation density 

obstacles.

Manageability would not be affected. Manageability would not be affected.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

164 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Other Undeveloped Areas and Potential Wilderness Inventory

Executive Summary

During the initial scoping period, a consortium of environmental groups (American Hiking Society, 

Cascadia Wildlands Project, Oregon Chapter Sierra Club, Oregon Natural Desert Association, Oregon 

Wild, and The Wilderness Society) provided comments regarding impacts of the proposed action to 

uninventoried, unroaded, and citizen Inventoried Roadless Areas. They did not provide any specific 

locations of these citizen inventoried roadless areas except for the one discussed in depth later in this 

section. Oregon Wild in a separate letter also provided comments related to their citizen inventoried 

unroaded areas and requested that the Forest Service avoid providing access in roadless areas greater than 

or equal to 1,000 acres or any roadless area adjacent to existing wilderness, parks, and all inventoried 

roadless areas. The group felt that these areas provide refuges from motorized encroachment. They feel 

that roads and OHV use serve as vectors for exotic plant and disease invasion. They also feel that 

allowing motorized use in unroaded areas would cause a disproportionate conflict between quiet 

recreationists and motor vehicle users and will risk precluding roadless areas from further consideration 

for Wilderness designation. Given that more than 9,700 miles of roads are found on the Deschutes and 

Ochoco National Forests, they feel that the remaining roadless lands likely possess rare and critical 

ecological and social values. They felt that the proposed action did not go far enough to close roads and 

protect unroaded values. 

Effects on these unspecified areas and the specific area identified during scoping are described in this 

section. Specific impacts to Inventoried Roadless Areas identified by the Forest Service are described in 

the preceding section on Inventoried Roadless Areas. 

Affected Environment – Citizens Inventoried Roadless Areas – No Specific 

Location Identified 

Motorized cross country travel is currently allowed unless it is explicitly restricted by area closures or 

land management allocations. Of the approximately 1,612,937 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and 

723,855 acres on the Ochoco National Forest, 625,430 acres (39 percent) and 292,071 (40 percent) acres 

are currently open to cross-country travel respectively for each Forest. While the majority of unroaded 

areas on both Forests and Grasslands usually contain enough forest and shrub vegetation to inhibit crosscountry motorized travel of large vehicles, some motorized travel does occur; especially when people cut 

small trees or move rocks to access an area. In addition, in some areas motorcycles and Class I ATVs 

(quads) are accessing other areas and creating unauthorized trail systems. This can predispose the area to 

potential invasion by weeds that are carried into the area on the vehicle. It should be noted that other 

vectors of invasive species also include livestock and non-motorized recreationists. However, a large 

portion of the existing invasive species sites on the forests and grassland are associated with roads open to 

motorized vehicles. There are fewer invasive species plant populations associated with non-motorized 

trails. Effects of motorized cross country travel to resources such as invasive species, native species, 

wildlife species, soils and other resources can be found in their respective sections of this FEIS.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 165

Analysis of Environmental Effects – Citizens Inventoried Roadless Areas – No 

Specific Location Identified

Alternative 1

Under the no-action Alternative, the ability of an undeveloped area to be identified as potential wilderness 

would not be affected. One of the inventory criteria used in Forest Service Handbook 1909.12, chapter 71 

to conduct a potential wilderness inventory states that no roads are present nor can recognizable closed or 

decommissioned roads be present in an area to be considered as potential wilderness area during an 

inventory. Under the no action, there would be no change to the existing road system and closed roads 

(level 1) are still readily discernable and designed to be opened for future administrative use. 

Decommissioned roads may be recognizable depending on the method of decommissioning, time since 

decommissioning, and how much of the road has been returned to pre-road conditions. In conducting an 

inventory for potential wilderness, the Forest Service will use the presence of roads, even closed or 

decommissioned roads that are discernable, to preclude an area from being identified as potential 

wilderness (FSH 1909.12, chapter 71.1). Alternative 1 continues the existing condition on the landscape;

therefore no roads will be closed, opened, or decommissioned; resulting in no change to the road system. 

All areas will retain the current condition of the roads and no potential wilderness area will be affected, 

even without conducting an inventory to determine where the potential wilderness area could be located.

Any areas with roads would not qualify as potential wilderness. Any area between roads meeting the other 

criteria in FSH 1909.12, chapter 71 for inclusion in a potential wilderness inventory, would still be 

available as no new roads would be constructed.

Alternatives 2 and 3 

Alternatives 2 and 3 considered in the FEIS designate existing routes and would not close any currently 

open routes nor create any new routes; there would be no change from the existing condition relative to 

motorized access on roads in unroaded areas. Closing roads is outside the scope of this project and has 

been discussed in chapter 1 of this EIS. For both Alternatives 2 and 3, cross-country travel, would be 

reduced or eliminated for the majority of the Forests and Grassland. For Alternative 2, 1,075 acres (<1 

percent) on the Deschutes National Forest and 191 acres (1 percent) on the Ochoco National Forest would

be available for cross-country travel. This is a reduction (38 percent) over the existing condition for both 

Forests. Therefore, most of the unroaded areas identified as a concern would no longer be available for 

motorized cross-country travel under the action alternatives. Areas of non-motorized recreation 

emphasizing quiet will be preserved under the action alternatives. 

Motorized access for dispersed camping will be limited to within 300 feet of open designated routes and 

will be further restricted to existing, defined, and designated sites when near riparian areas or other areas 

of resource concern under Special Provisions. Neither closed roads nor decommissioned roads would be 

designated routes under Alternatives 2 and 3. 

Any areas with existing roads would not qualify as potential wilderness and any area between roads 

meeting the other criteria for inclusion in an inventory would still be available as potential wilderness as 

no new routes would be constructed. There would be no change from the existing condition with the 

action alternatives to potential wilderness areas as the action alternatives propose nothing to change the 

existing condition in relation to open roads. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

166 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Affected Environment – Citizens Inventoried Roadless Areas – Specifically 

Identified Area of Interest

During the initial scoping period for this project, the Oregon Natural Desert Association (ONDA) in the 

consortium letter submitted a specific area that they felt possessed wilderness-quality (See Figure 9). 

They requested that the Forest Service consider the impacts of the actions on this area of interest and also 

stated that they felt the designation of motorized routes within the boundaries would adversely affect their 

“wilderness-quality area”. They also suggested that three routes be closed as part of the travel 

management decision to reduce the amount of roads within the area. The area they identified is 

approximately 15,148 acres and includes Forest Service (12,097 acres) and Bureau of Land Management 

lands (3,051 acres). Of the Forest Service / Grassland lands, 8,942 acres are within the Deschutes / 

Steelhead Canyon Inventoried Roadless Area and 3,155 acres are outside the Inventoried Roadless Area 

(Table 47). Of the Bureau of Land Management lands, 2,711 acres within the area of interest were 

designated as wilderness study area and 340 acres were identified for some other kind of management. 

Table 47. Land ownership in citizens’ area of interest and Inventoried Roadless Area

Citizen Identified Area of Interest

Land Ownership Acres

Forest Service / Grassland lands - total 12,097

 Inventoried Roadless Area 8,942

 Other lands 3,155

Bureau of Land Management Lands - total 3,051

 Wilderness Study Area 2,711

 Other lands 340

Total lands within Citizen Area of Interest 15,148

The area of interest is located on the Crooked River National Grassland along the Deschutes River. The 

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has already identified the BLM lands along the Deschutes River as a 

Wilderness Study Area (WSA) in the Upper Deschutes Resource Management Plan and this WSA is 

approximately 2,711 acres within the area of interest. This area includes the deep canyon and walls along 

the Deschutes River for approximately nine miles and is about 1⁄2 mile wide. There is also an additional 

340 acres of BLM lands within their area of interest. The Forest Service has no jurisdiction on BLM lands 

and is proposing no actions on BLM lands. The Crooked River National Grassland lands surrounding this 

wilderness study area are identified as the Deschutes / Steelhead Inventoried Roadless Area (IRA). There 

are approximately 8,942 acres of IRA within the citizen identified area of interest. Road 3121 is the 

southern boundary of the IRA and the citizen identified area continues southward to the grassland 

boundary with private lands. This other undeveloped area surrounding Whychus Creek is approximately 

3,155 acres and is south of Road 3121. There are approximately 9.6 miles of open roads and 8.6 miles of 

closed roads within the citizen identified unroaded area and roads occur both inside and outside of the 

inventoried roadless area (See Table 48 below). Of these open roads, 5.6 miles are under county 

jurisdiction and provide access to the dispersed private lands in the area and adjacent to federal lands. See 

Figure 9 for a depiction of the citizen identified area of interest and the corresponding land ownership.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 167

Table 48. Miles of roads within citizens’ area of interest and Inventoried Roadless Area

Within Inventoried Roadless Area and Unroaded Area

Miles of Open Road Miles of Closed Road

Grassland Road 3.40 4.44

County Road 1.96 3.45

Total 5.38 7.89

Outside of Inventoried Roadless Area but within Unroaded Area

Grassland Road 0.50 0.57

County Road 3.68 0.11

Total 4.18 0.68

Total Miles of Road 

within citizen’s area 9.56 8.57
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

168 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 9. Map of area of interest from Oregon Natural Desert Association with land ownership
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 169

Analysis of Environmental Effects – Specifically Identified Area of Interest

All Alternatives – Motorized Access off Designated Routes

Currently, motorized cross-country travel is prohibited in the Crooked River National Grassland, and thus 

is also prohibited in this Inventoried Roadless Area and outside the IRA in the unroaded area of interest. 

There are no proposed road designations in any of the alternatives. Unroaded areas would remain 

unroaded and cross-country travel would continue to be prohibited under all alternative. Currently open 

roads would remain open for use and closed roads would not be available for motorized use. Areas would 

remain available to be included in an inventory as potential wilderness as no new developments, 

vegetative manipulation or designating new routes, trails or areas would occur with any alternative. 

Because no actions are being proposed that cause road construction or other motorized trails, there would 

be no impact to the adjacent BLM lands compared with the no-action alternative. 

Forest Service roads in T12S, R12E, section 32 currently provide access to within 1/8 mile of the edge of 

the Deschutes River canyon rim and the Wilderness Study Area on BLM lands. Under the alternatives, 

these roads remain open and make no change to already existing use. Impacts associated with open roads, 

such as disturbance to susceptible wildlife populations, dust in summer months, potential for invasive 

plant instances would still occur. Since these roads were in place when the BLM designated the BLM 

lands as wilderness study area, they have a continued effect on the area as they did at the time of 

designation. These currently open roads would be discernable even if they were closed and based on the 

criteria in FSH 1909.12, chapter 71, this area in section 32 would be precluded from the potential 

wilderness area inventory because of the presence of these existing roads or road beds.

Alternative 1 – Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Currently motorized access for dispersed camping is prohibited except to designated sites in this area of 

interest. Unroaded areas would remain unroaded and cross-country travel is prohibited. Currently open 

roads would remain open for use. Currently closed roads would not be available for motorized use. Areas 

would remain available to be included in an inventory as potential wilderness as no new developments, 

vegetative manipulation or designating new routes, trails or areas would occur with any alternative. 

Because no actions are being proposed that cause road construction or other motorized trails, there would 

be no change in impact to the adjacent BLM lands. 

Forest Service roads in T12S, R12E, section 32 currently provide access within 1/8 mile of the edge of the 

Deschutes River canyon rim and the Wilderness Study Area on BLM lands. Under this alternative, these 

roads remain open and make no change to already existing use. Alternative 1 does not allow motorized 

access for dispersed camping on these roads. These currently open roads would be discernable even if 

they were closed and based on the criteria in FSH 1909.12, chapter 71, this area in section 32 would be 

precluded from the potential wilderness area inventory because of the presence of these existing roads or 

road beds. 

Alternative 2 – Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Of the 3,155 acres outside of the Inventoried Roadless Area, 235 acres would be available for motorized 

access for dispersed camping off of designated routes in Alternative 2 and only to existing, designated and 

defined sites. No new access roads to dispersed camps would be authorized therefore there would be no 

change from Alternative 1, the existing condition. Areas that are currently unroaded would remain 

unroaded and eligible to be included in the inventory for potential wilderness if all other criteria are met. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

170 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Nothing in Alternative 2 would affect the area’s ability to be included in the inventory because no 

vegetative manipulation is authorized, no new road building is authorized and no new developments are 

authorized with this decision. 

Of the 8,942 acres within the Inventoried Roadless Area, 700 acres would be available for motorized 

access for dispersed camping to already existing, designated and defined sites within 300 feet of 

designated routes. Again, within the IRA there would be no new road building, no vegetative 

manipulation, and no new developments would be authorized and unroaded and undeveloped areas would 

still be eligible to be included in the inventory for potential wilderness if all other criteria are met. 

Forest Service roads in T12S, R12E, section 32 currently provide access to within 1/8 mile of the edge of 

the Deschutes River canyon rim and the Wilderness Study Area on BLM lands. Under the Action 

alternatives, these roads remain open and make no change to already existing use. Alternative 2 allows 

motorized access for dispersed camping on these roads to already existing, designated, or defined sites 

within 300 feet of the road. No access roads or trails to new dispersed sites would be allowed. These open 

roads would be discernable even if they were closed and based on the criteria in FSH 1909.12, chapter 71, 

this area in section 32 would be precluded from the potential wilderness area inventory because of the 

presence of these existing roads or road beds. 

Alternative 3 – Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Under this alternative, no motorized access for dispersed camping would be authorized within the 

Inventoried Roadless Area. Outside the Inventoried Roadless Area, 235 acres would be available for 

motorized access for dispersed camping to already existing, designated and defined sites accessible from 

designated roads. No new access roads to dispersed camps would be authorized therefore there should be 

no change from Alternative 1, the existing condition. There would be no new road building, no vegetative 

manipulation, and no new developments would be authorized and unroaded and undeveloped areas would 

still be eligible to be included in the inventory for potential wilderness if all other criteria are met. This is 

the same as Alternative 2.

Forest Service roads in T12S, R12E, section 32 currently provide access to within 1/8 mile of the edge of 

the Deschutes River canyon rim and the Wilderness Study Area on BLM lands. Under the Action 

alternatives, these roads remain open and make no change to already existing use. Alternative 3 does not 

allow motorized access for dispersed camping along these roads because the area is within the Inventoried 

Roadless Area. These currently open roads would be discernable even if they were closed and based on 

the criteria in FSH 1909.12, chapter 71, this area in section 32 would be precluded from the potential 

wilderness area inventory because of the presence of these existing roads or road beds. 

Transportation

Executive Summary

This section summarizes the analysis of the effects from implementing the actions proposed in this EIS on 

the National Forest System Road. Under the proposed action, all motorized vehicle use would be 

restricted to designated routes, and an engineering analysis ise required to evaluate the suitability for 

allowing both highway-legal and non-highway-legal vehicles on the same designated routes, (i.e., 

motorized mixed-use).
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 171

There would be no effects to the current road system from implementing Alternative 1. Roads would 

continue to be used as they are presently, and public use would remain as it is today.

Alternatives 2 and 3 could be expected to increase overall road use in areas where there is currently a high 

level of off-road motorized vehicle use if OHV users choose to use roads where they are currently 

travelling cross-country. However, the location and amount that use may change as a result of this 

proposed action when compared to other uses is unpredictable. Regardless of the Alternative selected, 

future increased use of roads could result in increased surface wear on some roads which may result in a 

need for additional maintenance work. 

Under the action alternatives all motorized vehicle use would be restricted to designated routes, and a 

motorized mixed use analysis is required to evaluate the suitability for allowing both highway-legal and 

non-highway-legal vehicles on the same designated routes. Some roads that are currently available for 

mixed motorized use will be changed to allow only highway-legal vehicles if either action alternative is 

implemented. As a consequence of this change, some connectivity between traditional OHV use areas 

would be changed or lost. The OHV rider may need to load and transport the OHV from one geographic 

location to another in certain areas. 

The engineering analyses indicate that of the total miles of road currently available for mixed motorized 

use approximately 181 miles of roads on the Deschutes National Forest and 125 miles of roads on the 

Ochoco National Forest would be changed to only allow highway-legal vehicles if either action 

alternative is implemented. As a consequence of this change, some connectivity between roads that 

previously provided contiguous access for non-highway legal vehicles would be changed or lost. 

Affected Environment

There are currently over 11,400 miles of roads under Forest Service jurisdiction across Central Oregon on 

the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, and the Crooked River National Grassland. Of these roads 

there are approximately 8,000 miles of roads that are open and available for public use in motor vehicles. 

In addition to Forest Service roads, there are approximately 1,880 miles of State and County roads that 

provide for public access through and within the Central Oregon forests. There are also many miles of 

privately owned roads that are not tracked in the Forest Service inventory. Table 49 shows the miles of 

road within the Central Oregon Forests and Grassland that are either under Forest Service jurisdiction or 

are under the jurisdiction of the State or Counties53. 

Table 49. Road mileage of Central Oregon Forests and Grassland

Road System Deschutes Ochoco Crooked River 

National Grassland Total Miles

Forest Service Roads 8,182 2,935 315 11,432

State / County Roads 578 400 899 1,877

Totals: 8,760 3,335 1,214 13,309

Most of the National Forest System Road (NFSR) roads on the Ochoco and Deschutes National Forests 

were developed over the years in support of various resource management activities including timber 

harvest, mineral extraction, recreation, and for administrative purposes. 

 

53 Corrected mileages based on upates and corrections to the Infra Travel Routes data base are included in Appendix 5 of the 

Record of Decision. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

172 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

There are currently 8,182 miles of NFSR roads in the Deschutes National Forest road inventory. This 

number includes all standards of roads ranging from two lane paved arterials to single lane native 

surfaced roads, and includes all roads whether they are open or closed to motor vehicle use. Most of the 

Deschutes National Forest has gentle terrain which made road construction inexpensive and convenient; 

thus, the Forest has been roaded extensively over the years. There is rarely a need to construct a new road 

on the Deschutes. 

The Ochoco National Forest currently has 2,935 miles of NFSR roads. Most of the transportation system 

on the Ochoco National Forest was developed on the more gentle slopes found on the southern portions of 

the Forest. This part of the Forest, (approximately two-thirds of the total area), has the transportation 

system needed to provide access for most present and future management activities. The northern onethird of the Ochoco National Forest has a less extensive transportation system and more difficult terrain 

for road construction. 

There are only 315 miles of NFSR roads on the Crooked River National Grassland. This relatively small 

number of roads under Forest Service jurisdiction is because most of the access to the Grassland is 

provided by the State and County road systems. Road jurisdiction in the Grassland is somewhat unusual 

because the Grassland didn’t come into existence until 1960. Prior to that, the lands were privately owned 

and many of the roads were constructed by the county or private landowners to provide access to the 

original homesteads. After the land was acquired by the Forest Service, all roads that were previously 

used by the public remained under county jurisdiction. Most of the main roads through the Grassland are 

dedicated county roads that are maintained by the county, but many of the other roads are designated as 

“local access roads” or “public use roads”, where the County still has jurisdiction over the roads but does 

not spend maintenance funds on them. The remaining 315 miles of NFSR roads are generally very low 

standard dirt roads that access range allotments throughout the Grassland. These roads are normally 

suitable only for high clearance vehicle use and are impassable or closed seasonally during wet weather. 

Road System Classifications

There are many ways to categorize different groups of roads in the NFSR road system. Five of the 

primary ways that will be used in discussions throughout this section are by functional class, maintenance 

level, Highway Safety Act, surface type, and unauthorized. 

Functional Class

Functional class is the way a road services land and resource management needs, and the character of 

service it provides (FSH 7709.54, Forest Transportation Terminology Handbook).

• Arterial Road. A NFSR road that provides service to large land areas and usually connects with other 

arterial roads or public highways. 

• Collector Road. A NFSR road that serves smaller land areas than an arterial road. Usually connects 

forest arterial roads to local forest roads or terminal facilities. 

• Local Road. A NFSR road that connects terminal facilities with forest collector, forest arterial or 

public highways. Usually forest local roads are single purpose transportation facilities. 

Table 50 shows the distribution of functional classes on the Forest Service road system in Central Oregon. 

Approximately 2,432 miles, or 21 percent of the total road system, are main roads (arterial and collector 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 173

roads). The remaining 9,000 miles (79 percent) of roads are local roads that are generally designated for 

high clearance access. 

Table 50. National Forest Transportation System road miles by functional class

Functional class Deschutes NF Ochoco NF Crooked river NG Total

A - Arterial 296 229 526

C - Collector 1,450 447 9 1,906

L - Local 6,435 2,259 306 9,000

Totals: 8,182 2,935 315 11,432

Maintenance Levels

Maintenance levels define the level of service provided by, and maintenance required for, a specific road, 

consistent with road management objectives and maintenance criteria (FSH 7709.58, Transportation 

System Maintenance Handbook). 

• Maintenance Level 1: Assigned to intermittent service roads during the time they are closed to 

vehicular traffic. The closure period must exceed 1 year. Basic custodial maintenance is performed to 

keep damage to adjacent resources to an acceptable level and to perpetuate the road to facilitate future 

management activities. Emphasis is normally given to maintaining drainage facilities and runoff 

patterns. Planned road deterioration may occur at this level. Appropriate traffic management 

strategies are "prohibit" and "eliminate". Roads receiving level 1 maintenance may be of any type, 

class or construction standard, and may be managed at any other maintenance level during the time 

they are open for traffic. However, while being maintained at level 1, they are closed to vehicular 

traffic, but may be open and suitable for non-motorized uses. 

• Maintenance Level 2: Assigned to roads open for use by high clearance vehicles. Passenger car traffic 

is not a consideration. Traffic is normally minor, usually consisting of one or a combination of 

administrative, permitted, dispersed recreation, or other specialized uses. Log hauling may occur at 

this level. Appropriate traffic management strategies are either: (1) discourage or prohibit passenger 

cars or (2) accept or discourage high clearance vehicles. 

• Maintenance Level 3: Assigned to roads open and maintained for travel by a prudent driver in a 

standard passenger car. User comfort and convenience are not considered priorities. Roads in this 

maintenance level are typically low speed, single lane with turnouts and spot surfacing. Some roads 

may be fully surfaced with either native or processed material. Appropriate traffic management 

strategies are either "encourage" or "accept." "Discourage" or "prohibit" strategies may be employed 

for certain classes of vehicles or users. 

• Maintenance Level 4: Assigned to roads that provide a moderate degree of user comfort and 

convenience at moderate travel speeds. Most roads are double lane and aggregate surfaced. However, 

some roads may be single lane. Some roads may be paved and/or dust abated. The most appropriate 

traffic management strategy is "encourage." However, the "prohibit" strategy may apply to specific 

classes of vehicles or users at certain times. 

• Maintenance Level 5: Assigned to roads that provide a high degree of user comfort and convenience. 

Normally, roads are double-lane, paved facilities. Some may be aggregate surfaced and dust abated. 

The appropriate traffic management strategy is "encourage."

Table 51 shows the distribution of maintenance levels on the forest service road system in Central 

Oregon. Approximately 6 percent of the road system is in the maintenance level 3, 4, and 5 categories, 

which means they are open to public use and are maintained for standard passenger cars. Approximately 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

174 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

64 percent of the road system is maintained for high clearance vehicles only (maintenance level 2), and 

approximately 30 percent of the roads are currently closed to motor vehicle use, (maintenance level 1).

Table 51. NFSR road miles by maintenance level

Operating Maintenance Level Deschutes Ochoco Crooked River 

NG Total Miles

Level 1 – Basic Custodial Care (Closed) 2,050 1,305 53 3,408

Level 2 – High Clearance Vehicles 5,700 1,410 260 7,370

Level 3 – Suitable for Passenger Cars 271 135 406

Level 4 – Moderate Degree of User Comfort 122 30 2 154

Level 5 – High Degree of User Comfort 39 55 94

Totals: 8,182 2,935 315 11,432

Highway Safety Act Roads

Forest Service maintenance level 3, 4, and 5 roads are subject to the Highway Safety Act of 1966. The 

Forest Service maintains a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Federal Highway 

Administration requiring that certain safety standards from the Highway Safety Act be met on all roads 

“open to public travel”, as defined in the MOU. Maintenance level 3-5 roads are given this designation 

because they are generally available and maintained for low-clearance passenger car use. The present 

Highway Safety Act road system includes 220 miles on the Ochoco National Forest, 2 miles on the 

Crooked River National Grassland, and 432 miles on the Deschutes National Forest. 

Table 52. Roads subject to the Highway Safety Act

Maintenance Requirements Deschutes NF Ochoco NF Crooked River 

NG Total Miles

Passenger Cars and Subject to the HSA 432 220 2 654

High Clearance Vehicles Only 7,750 2,715 313 10,778

Totals: 8,182 2,935 315 11,432

Surface Types

Forest Service roads are typically grouped into four basic surface types: 

• Paved roads include roads with any type of asphalt surface materials; either bituminous surface 

treatments (BSTs) or asphalt cement concrete (AC).

• Aggregate surface roads include any type of crushed rock or screened rock surfacing. Also referred to 

as gravel roads.

• Improved surface roads may have any type of select borrow material imported and placed on the 

surface to help stabilize them. Typically this is a larger rocky material that is not processed through a 

crusher but may be grid rolled to reduce the particle size on the road. On the Deschutes National 

Forest, most improved surface roads are made of cinder material.

• Native roads are not surfaced. They are constructed entirely out of the native soil and rocky materials 

that are encountered during construction. No materials are brought in to cover them. Sometimes 

referred to as dirt roads. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 175

Table 53. NFSR road miles by surface type

Surface Type Deschutes Ochoco Crooked 

River NG Total Miles

Asphalt 198 91 2 291

Crushed aggregate / gravel 340 590 1 931

Improved native material 1,155 499 7 1,661

Native material 6,489 1,755 305 8,549

Totals: 8,182 2,935 315 11,432

Unauthorized Roads

Unauthorized roads do not fit into any of the classification categories described above and typically result 

from low-standard temporary roads either built within the scope of timber sale contracts or from other 

unplanned, off-road vehicle uses such as gathering firewood and accessing dispersed recreation sites. 

After their intended use, such roads are typically decommissioned but are often visible as primitive wheel 

tracks or show up as features in aerial photos. These roads have not been mapped or recorded in the forest 

transportation database. 

Road Maintenance

Currently, the overall condition of the road system on the two Forests and Grassland is poor. Road 

maintenance funding has declined substantially over the past decade for both forests to a point where it is 

only a fraction of what is needed to fully maintain the road system to the objective standards. 

In addition to the large discrepancy between the present road maintenance funding and projected road 

maintenance needs, the amount of road maintenance work traditionally performed by timber purchasers 

has declined dramatically over the past two decades. The reduced opportunity for sharing road 

maintenance responsibilities with timber purchasers, both in terms of work performed and collection 

deposits continues to limit the Forest’s ability to keep up with maintenance needs. 

The degraded condition of the road system is evident in the backlog of both surface rock replacement on 

main roads and brushing on local roads. The crushed aggregate and cinder surfacing on most of the main 

roads is worn out. The Forest has traditionally shared the work and expense of replacing surfacing 

materials with timber purchasers during active timber sales. With the marked decrease in both the Forest 

Service Capital Investment Program and in the timber program, there are very limited means for replacing 

surface materials on NFSR roads. The condition of the NFSR road system will continue to decline 

without new funding sources. There are also an increasing number of maintenance level 2 roads that can 

no longer accommodate a full sized vehicle due to encroaching brush. These roads were typically brushed 

out as part of active timber sales, but many have had no project use in years. It is likely that some 

(although how many is unknown) number of these objective maintenance level 2 roads could becomeo an 

operational level 1 (closed) category due to lack of maintenance. 

In 1998, the Forests began conducting road condition surveys to determine the annual costs necessary to 

fully maintain the road system to standard. In addition, any deferred maintenance work items necessary to 

bring the roads back to standard is recorded and documented. In 2003 the Central Oregon Forests 

conducted a forest-wide roads analysis and evaluated the deferred maintenance needs (to bring the road 

systems back up to standard), and annual maintenance costs (to keep it maintained in a safe and 

environmentally sound condition) on the forests. 

The Deschutes National Forest would need approximately $33 million dollars for deferred maintenance 

and approximately $2.1 million for annual maintenance. The Ochoco National Forest would need $37 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

176 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

million for deferred maintenance and $1.6 million for annual maintenance. It is not anticipated that 

increases in funding of this magnitude are going to be available anytime in the foreseeable future. 

Therefore, options for managing the road systems are limited to either reducing the mileage and/or 

standard of roads to maintain, or continuing to prioritize maintenance work on the existing system and 

accept a continued increase in our deferred maintenance backlog. 

Public Use

There are approximately 8,000 miles of roads under Forest Service jurisdiction across Central Oregon on 

the Deschutes National Forest, the Ochoco National Forest, and the Crooked River National Grassland 

that are open and available for public use in motorized vehicles. Of those, some are available year around 

to all types of motor vehicles, some are only available during specific time periods, and some are only 

available to certain types of vehicles.

Seasons of Use 

Most roads are open and available for motorized vehicle use during the snow-free season. However, there 

are a variety of reasons why use on some roads is restricted for specific time periods during the year. The 

reasons range from cooperative road management areas during hunting seasons (e.g., Green Dot 

Systems), and other protection for wildlife during the winter season, spring calving/fawning periods, bird 

nesting periods, etc. Table 54 shows the number of miles of road that are currently open all year, or that 

have at least one seasonal restriction on use during the year. 

Table 54. Miles of open Forest Service roads by season of use

Open to Public Use Deschutes NF Ochoco NF Crooked River NG Total Miles

Open All Year 5,230 1,367 14 6,611

Open Seasonally 902 263 248 1,413

Totals: 6,132 1,630 262 8,024

Vehicle Types

When open for use, most roads are open to all types of motor vehicles. However, some roads are 

restricted to highway-legal vehicles only. Some roads are not suitable for motorized mixed-use due to 

concerns for operator safety or are used for administrative purposes such as campground roads, roads into 

administrative sites, roads through sensitive areas, etc. Motorized mixed-use is defined as having both 

highway-legal and non-highway-legal vehicles operating on the same road at the same time. Nonhighway-legal vehicles include any type of standard vehicle or OHV that is not street legal. On the 

Deschutes National Forest, roads that currently allow only highway-legal vehicles include all Highway 

Safety Act roads, roads within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, and roads within the East Fort 

Rock OHV area that are not specifically designated and signed to allow motorized mixed-use. On the 

Ochoco National Forest, roads that currently allow only highway-legal vehicles are primarily the 

Highway Safety Act roads. Table 55 shows the amount of roads currently open to all vehicles and those 

that are only open for highway-legal vehicles. Table 56 compares open roads with both seasons of use and 

type of vehicles allowed.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 177

Table 55. Miles of open Forest Service roads by vehicle type

Type of Vehicle Allowed Deschutes NF Ochoco NF Crooked River 

NG Total Miles

Open to All Motor Vehicles 5,362 1,388 260 7,010

Open to Highway-legal Vehicles Only 770 242 2 1,014

Totals: 6,132 1,630 262 8,024

Table 56. Miles of open Forest Service roads by season of use and vehicle type

Forest Open to All Vehicles Highway-legal Only Total Miles

All Year Seasonal All Year Seasonal

Deschutes NF 4,552 810 678 92 6,132

Ochoco NF 1,125 263 242 0 1,630

Crooked River NG 12 248 2 0 262

Totals: 5,689 1,321 922 92 8,024

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Alternative 1 

Alternative 1, the no action alternative, would not prohibit motorized travel where it is not already 

restricted or prohibited by law, regulation, policy, order, Forest Plan direction, site-specific decision or 

agreement. There would be no change to existing designated routes for class of vehicle, areas open to 

motorized access, or seasons of use for motorized access. There would be no Forest Plan amendments to 

change motorized access as a result of this decision. 

There would be no direct or indirect effects to the road system from implementing the no action 

alternative. Roads would continue to be used as they are presently. Public use would remain as it is today, 

and maintenance needs would continue to accumulate and outweigh current maintenance budgets. 

Alternatives 2 and 3

With the implementation of either of the action alternatives where motorized vehicle use would be 

restricted to designated routes, there would be an increase in overall traffic on some roads. This effect is 

expected to mostly occur near areas that are currently experiencing high levels of off-road use, and is 

highly dependent upon user choice. Popular areas include unauthorized trail systems near subdivisions 

and other population centers adjacent to or within the forest boundary. The effect of this change in 

allowed use could be a change in amount of traffic on maintenance level 2 roads that allow motorized 

mixed use resulting in more wear and tear on the roads which could also result in an increased need for 

road surface maintenance. However, as noted earlier, the amount or location of where increased use 

resulting from changes in use patterns resulting from this decision are highly unpredictable, and are 

unlikely to be distinguishable from increased use forest roads may receive as a result of increased 

population or development of rural residential areas. Nonetheless, the potential for additional nonhighway-legal vehicle traffic on the road system was considered and reflected in the engineering analysis

for designation of motorized mixed-use routes. 

System roads currently open to public use that do not have an existing decision to close them, would 

remain open under these alternatives. However, as part of the 2005 Travel Management Rule, the 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

178 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Regional Forester of the Pacific Northwest Region issued a letter that requires an engineering analysis on 

any road to be designated open to motorized mixed-use on the Motor Vehicle Use Map. As a consequence 

of this rule, some roads that currently allow motorized mixed-use would be changed to only allow 

highway-legal vehicles only. Maps in Appendix A-2-3, show the roads that are currently restricted to 

highway-legal vehicles only and those that are expected to be changed to highway-legal only status upon 

completion of the motorized mixed-use analyses. Table 57 shows the mileage differences between the 

current highway-legal system and the expected highway-legal system under the action alternatives. (See 

the following section on public safety for further discussion of the motorized mixed-use analysis). 

Table 57. Expected change in roads open to motorized mixed use

Forest Open to Highway-legal Only Open to Motorized mixed-use Open 

Existing Alt 2,3 Change Existing Alt 2,3 Change Miles

Deschutes NF 770 951 181 5,362 5,181 -181 6,132

Ochoco NF 242 367 125 1,388 1,262 -125 1,630

Crooked River NG 2 2 0 260 260 0 262

Totals: 1,014 1,320 306 7,010 6,703 -306 8,024

Public Safety

Executive Summary

This section summarizes the analysis of the effects from implementing the actions proposed in this EIS on 

public and safety.

Under the action alternatives all motorized vehicle use will be restricted to designated routes, and a 

motorized mixed-use analysis is required to evaluate the suitability for allowing both highway-legal and 

non-highway-legal vehicles on the same designated routes. Some roads that are currently available for 

mixed motorized use will be changed to allow only highway-legal vehicles if either action alternative is 

implemented. As a consequence of this change, some connectivity between traditional OHV use areas 

may be changed or lost. The OHV rider may need to load and transport the OHV from one geographic 

location to another in certain areas. 

Analysis indicates that approximately 181 miles of roads on the Deschutes National Forest and 125 miles 

of roads on the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland that are currently available 

for mixed motorized use would be changed to only allow highway-legal vehicles if either action 

alternative is implemented. 

Affected Environment

There are approximately 8,000 miles of National Forest Transportation System roads across Central 

Oregon on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, and the Crooked River National Grassland that 

are open and available for public use in motorized vehicles. Of those, some are available year round to all 

types of motor vehicles, some are only available during specific time periods, and some are only available 

to certain types of vehicles.

When open for use, most roads are open to all types of motor vehicles. However, some roads are 

restricted to highway-legal vehicles only. Some roads are not suitable for motorized mixed-use due to 

concerns for operator safety or are used for administrative purposes such as campground roads, roads into 

administrative sites, roads through sensitive areas, etc. Motorized mixed-use is defined as having both 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 179

highway-legal and non-highway-legal vehicles operating on the same road at the same time. Nonhighway-legal vehicles include any type of standard vehicle or OHV that is not street legal. On the 

Deschutes National Forest, roads that currently allow only highway-legal vehicles include all Highway 

Safety Act roads, roads within the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, and roads within the East Fort 

Rock OHV area. On the Ochoco National Forest, roads that currently allow only highway-legal vehicles 

are primarily the Highway Safety Act roads. Table 55 shows the amount of roads currently open to all 

vehicles and those that are only open for highway-legal vehicles. 

Current Use

The existing policy on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Grassland has been to allow, 

consistent with Oregon State regulations. OHV use has therefore been allowed on maintenance level 2 

roads (high clearance vehicle roads) and prohibited OHV use on all maintenance level 3, 4, and 5 roads, 

which are the roads maintained for passenger car traffic, and thus consistent with ORS 821.055. This 

policy has been described to the public on the forest visitor maps, OHV area maps, and other recreation 

information sources. The only exceptions to the current policy are in places where OHV use on roads is 

specifically prohibited in areas such as the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, and the OHV 

specialized trail areas. 

Other than occasional contacts by law enforcement or contacts in OHV Trail areas, no specific 

information or educational outreach to the public regarding the use of OHVs on paved or two-lane gravel 

roads has been developed because in the past these roads fell entirely within the maintenance level 3, 4, 

and 5 category, (i.e., not available for OHV use). However, with the decline in maintenance budgets in 

recent years, the Forests have lowered maintenance levels on many roads so that there are now several 

two-lane gravel roads and even a few paved roads in the maintenance level 2 category. 

With the new Regional policy regarding the need to perform an engineering analysis on all roads before 

allowing motorized mixed-use on the motor vehicle use map, these “high-use” level 2 roads are being 

examined for suitability for having both highway-legal and non-highway-legal vehicles on them in the 

future. 

Regional Policy

By Regional Forester Letter, “Procedures for Engineering Analysis of Motorized Mixed-use”, dated 

August 10, 2006, the Forest Supervisors in Region 6 were directed as follows: 

The enclosed letter from the Washington Office expands on and supplements the Chief’s interim 

guidance, as a result of a recent Regional Engineers’ meeting to discuss designation of National Forest

System (NFS) roads for motorized mixed-use under the travel management rule.

The following supplements this guidance for Region 6.

When Engineering Analysis is Required:

“Even when State law allows motorized mixed-use, the Forest is required 

to follow the guidance in EM-7700-30 to determine if allowing 

motorized mixed-use on National Forest Transportation System roads is 

consistent with management objectives, and makes a reasonable 

accommodation for the public’s safety. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

180 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Decisions on motorized mixed-use are the responsibility of the line 

officer. The designated engineer analyzes the information on the road 

and road use, including crash probability and severity, and presents that 

information, along with any mitigation that could potentially lower the 

risks to the responsible official.

State laws in Oregon and Washington require no minimum age to 

operate some classes of OHVs. Because of the potential risks, an 

engineering analysis (EM-7700-30) must be conducted on all roads 

considered for mixed-use regardless of maintenance level. The level of 

the analysis should be appropriate for the roads analyzed. For example, 

similar roads at a maintenance and operational level that justify an 

abbreviated analysis may be combined utilizing Exhibit 1 Documentation 

for Engineering Judgment of Motorized Mixed-use on National Forest 

System Roads as described in EM-7700-30. 

Roads currently open to motorized mixed-use that have a documented 

motorized mixed-use analysis do not need to be revisited. Engineering 

analysis is required for roads which have been open to motorized mixeduse and no documented engineering analysis has been completed.” 

These guidelines and the procedures in FSH 7709.55, chapter 30 have been used to analyze motorized 

mixed-use for the majority of roads proposed for motorized mixed-use on the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests. The roads that are expected to continue to be open to motorized mixed-use on the BendFort Rock Ranger District are included in the tables and maps in this section.

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Alternative 1 

Alternative 1, the no action Alternative, would not prohibit motorized travel where it is not already 

restricted or prohibited by law, regulation, policy, order, Forest Plan direction, site-specific decision or 

agreement. There would be no change to existing designated routes for class of vehicle, areas open to 

motorized access, or seasons of use for motorized access. 

There would be no direct or indirect effects to public use of the road system from implementing the no 

action Alternative. Roads would continue to be used as they are presently. Public use would remain as it is 

today, and motorized mixed-use would continue on roads where it is currently allowed. Based on the 

mixed-use analysis recently completed, this could result in slightly over 300 miles of road where mixeduse may present a risk to public safety by allowing OHV use on roads that support high speed travel by 

motor vehicles and where site distances are limited.

Alternatives 2 and 3

Under both Alternatives 2 and 3, all motorized travel would be prohibited off of designated routes. 

Motorized vehicles would still be allowed to access dispersed camp sites within 300 feet of designated 

routes where that use is currently allowed. Motorized vehicles would still be allowed to use designated 

routes where they are currently allowed. However, for all roads where motorized mixed-use would occur, 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 181

an engineering analysis to determine suitability for that mixed-use would be required prior to including 

those routes on the Motor Vehicle Use Map. 

Existing legal uses on established system roads would continue, while off-road, cross-country, motorized 

vehicle use and motorized use on unauthorized, non-system roads would be prohibited. No system roads 

that are currently open to public use would be closed as a result of this decision. However, some roads 

that currently allow motorized mixed-use will be changed to only allow highway-legal vehicles. 

Analyses indicate that approximately 181 miles of roads on the Deschutes National Forest and 125 miles 

of roads on the Ochoco National Forest, that are currently available for motorized mixed-use, will be 

changed to only allow highway-legal vehicles if either action alternative is implemented. This could 

reduce the potential risk to public safety on slightly over 300 miles of road where motorized mixed-use 

may currently present a safety risk by allowing OHV use on roads that support high speed travel where 

site distances are limited.

Table 57. Expected change in roads open to motorized mixed use, shows the mileage differences between 

the current highway-legal system and the expected highway-legal system under the action alternatives. 

Connectivity of Routes

With the implementation of either of the action alternatives, there would be some areas where traditional 

OHV use areas would no longer be connected by roads open to non-highway-legal vehicles. Maps 2 and 3 

in Appendix A show the roads that are currently restricted to highway-legal vehicles only and those that 

would change to highway-legal only status upon completion of the analysis. The proposed additions to the 

highway-legal only system on the Deschutes National Forest would not have as much of an effect on loss 

of connectivity as it would on the Ochoco National Forest due to the higher road densities on the 

Deschutes, (i.e., there are more opportunities for alternate routes on the Deschutes). On either Forest, the 

consequences of losing connecting routes between desired destinations is that the user would have a 

reduced number of loop riding options and/or reduced access to some dead-end spur roads connected only 

to a highway legal vehicle only road. This would mean users may have to load the OHV on a trailer or 

pickup to get from one location to another in certain situations.

Fisheries 

Executive Summary

This section summarizes the analysis of the effects from implementing the actions proposed in this EIS on 

fish populations, designated critical habitat for threatened bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) and 

steelhead, and sensitive redband trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). 

Potential positive effects to fisheries from implementation of either action alternative could result 

indirectly from decreases in erosion and bank instability, and increases in vegetative cover (shade). 

In Alternatives 2 and 3, the potential is reduced for turbidity, fine sediment bed load, and increases in 

stream temperature from the no action alternative, and would have a beneficial effect on these resources 

at the localized scale, especially in relation to motorized access for dispersed camping. These beneficial 

effects to habitats are anticipated, although not specifically quantifiable without more site-specific data 

related to future uses and recovery of these areas. Overall, motorized cross-country travel within 100 feet 

of water bodies would be reduced by almost 16,000 acres on the Deschutes and 40,000 acres on the 

Ochoco. Alternatives 2 and 3 would provide a further beneficial effect by limiting motorized access 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

182 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

across both Forests and the Grassland for dispersed camping to only existing, designated, or defined sites 

with a 30 foot setback from streams, wetlands, or water bodies. Alternative 2 and 3 both limit motorized 

access for dispersed camping to existing, designated, or defined sites only (Special Provisions) within 

riparian areas and do not have a significant difference in effects between the two alternatives. 

Affected Environment

Watersheds are natural divisions of the landscape and the basic functioning unit of the hydrologic system. 

Watersheds are hierarchical - smaller ones nested within larger ones. For the purpose of analyzing and 

summarizing aquatic and vegetative data, a hierarchy of watersheds and watershed boundaries was 

developed by the region using U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) protocols. Identification of these 

watersheds follows the USGS numeric Hydrologic Unit Coding (HUC) system, and are referred to as 

HUCs. 

There are eleven 4th field HUCs across the two Forests and Grassland. Within these 4th field HUCs there 

are fifty-six 5th field HUCs that have potential aquatic species/issues for dispersed camping out of a total 

of sixty four 5th field HUCs (10 have no surface water associated with them). On the Deschutes the 4th 

fields are the Upper Deschutes and Little Deschutes, Summer Lake, and Williamson. The Ochoco and the 

Grassland have the Lower Deschutes, South Fork Crooked, Lower Crooked, Upper Crooked, Lower John 

Day, Upper John Day, and Trout.

A more detailed description of the existing condition of the 4th field subbasins within the analysis area are 

included in Appendix B-4 – Fisheries, Current Condition of 4th Field HUCs. The watersheds within 

which the conditions described above are of greatest potential concern are:

• Upper Deschutes 4th Field HUC

o Crane Prairie 5th Field HUC

o Wickiup 5th Field HUC

o Squaw Creek 5th Field HUC

o Upper Metolius River 5th Field HUC

• Lower Crooked 4th Field HUC

o McKay Creek 5th Field HUC

On the Deschutes National Forest there are 726 miles of fish bearing stream. In addition there are over 

400 miles of non-fish bearing streams. The Deschutes National Forest is generally characterized by 

streams with flow regimes that are spring fed with consistent flows which result in stable systems. There 

are some systems that are flashy, snow melt dominated systems, but these are relatively few in number. In 

most, but not all of these systems bank stability is high due to the stable nature of the flow and resulting 

excellent vegetative growth within the near bank riparian areas.

There are over 300 lakes on the Deschutes National Forest with only about 30 of those lakes accessible by 

vehicle. While most of these 30 lakes allow dispersed camping adjacent to them, there are many that do 

not. These include East, Paulina, Little Cultus, Cultus, Deer, Hosmer, Lava, Little Lava, Elk, Todd, North 

Twin, South Twin, Odell, Suttle, Three Creek, and Jack lakes. 

On the Ochoco National Forest, including the Crooked River National Grassland, there are 825 miles of 

fish bearing streams and over 1,800 miles of non-fish bearing streams. Most all of these stream systems 

are snow melt dominated systems with high spring flows followed by very low summer flows. Numerous 

systems have high elevation meadows (with wide riparian areas) that link narrower streams with riparian 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 183

areas that are dominated by forests. These meadow type systems generally have higher base flows than 

most of the other systems within the Ochoco National Forest and the Grassland.

Lakes and reservoirs on the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland are limited to four major lakes and 

reservoirs: Haystack Reservoir, Walton Lake, Antelope Reservoir, and Lake Billy Chinook. However, 

motorized access for dispersed camping does not exist on any of these bodies of water. 

Fish species vary widely across both Forests, although the number of different native species is relatively 

low. Of most importance, is the presence of bull trout in the Metolius, Whychus, and Odell systems, and 

steelhead in Trout Creek, within most all tributaries to the John Day River off the north slopes of the 

Ochocos, and the reintroduction of steelhead within the McKay Creek, Whychus, and Metolius river 

systems. Native redband trout are widely distributed across the Ochoco National Forest and in many 

locations within the Upper Deschutes subbasin. Redband trout have likely been extirpated from the Little 

Deschutes fourth field subbasin. 

Brook trout are the most widely distributed introduced species and occupy many miles of streams and 

acres of lakes throughout the Deschutes basin on both Forests and the Grassland. Brown trout, while also 

introduced, are not as widely distributed as brook trout. Strong populations are present in the Deschutes 

River, Wickiup and Crane Prairie Reservoirs, and parts of the Little Deschutes River.

Numerous other fish species, from bass to bullheads, have been introduced across both Forests, although 

the Deschutes has the most introduced species, due mostly to the number of lakes and reservoirs.

Cross-country travel (forest wide) and motorized access to dispersed sites can create a number of 

conditions that have the potential to affect stream channels and riparian habitat, resulting in effects to 

fisheries habitats. Included in these conditions is increased erosion from riparian areas as a result of crosscountry travel and access to dispersed sites that are located close to streams, wetlands, or water bodies. 

Erosion from these access routes can be channeled directly to streams and lakes as a consequence of the 

slope of the surrounding land and the proximity of the access route to these riparian areas. These routes 

can be highly compacted areas that have reduced infiltration rates so the water is usually concentrated in 

these areas, has increased velocities and erodes these access routes. This surface sediment can be routed 

to nearby streams or water bodies. This increase in fine sediment has the potential to reduce spawning 

success and rearing habitat for fish and other aquatic organisms through infilling of spawning gravels and 

pools. 

In addition to the potential to increase sediment, these routes also have the potential to reduce the amount 

of vegetation that surrounds and parallels streams or other riparian areas. Vegetation in these areas 

contributes to bank stability, shade, and large woody debris in streams. Access routes that parallel streams 

or that have direct access to stream banks have the greatest potential for decreasing these important 

vegetation components.

Special Fisheries Habitats and Species 

Essential Fish Habitat

Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act Public Law 94-265

The Pacific Fishery Management Council designated essential fish habitat for Chinook salmon on 

September 27, 2000. Essential fish habitat for spring Chinook has been designated across both Forests 

and the Grassland. This designation includes current and some historic habitat in the Deschutes Basin. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

184 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Historical habitat above Pelton Round Butte Dam is also included. For the Ochoco National Forest, 

essential fish habitat is not included above Ochoco Reservoir Dam or above Bowman Dam, but does 

include habitat on the north facing slopes of the Ochoco National Forest. On the Deschutes National 

Forest it includes the Deschutes River to Big Falls, Whychus Creek, and the Metolius River watersheds. 

Threatened and Endangered Species 

Biological analyses/evaluations have been prepared to document possible effects of proposed activities on 

threatened and endangered species in the project area. There are no endangered aquatic species known or 

suspected to occur on the two Forests and Grassland. Two threatened aquatic species are known to occur 

on the two Forests and Grassland and they are the bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) and mid-Columbia 

River steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss).

Stocks of summer steelhead currently occur across the north and east slopes of the Ochoco National 

Forest in McKay Creek and the Lower Crooked River on the Grassland, along with Whychus Creek and 

the lower Deschutes River on the Deschutes National Forest. Bull trout occur in lower Whychus Creek, 

the lower Deschutes and Crooked Rivers, the Metolius watersheds, and Odell Lake and Odell Creek 5th 

field watersheds. 

Critical Habitat

Bull Trout

Critical habitat for bull trout was designated in October of 2010. Federal lands were designated critical 

habitat and occur where all known populations of bull trout occur on the two Forests and National 

Grassland. 

Critical habitat was designated in two units in this project area. The designation in the Lower Deschutes 

River Unit (Unit 6) includes 85.2 miles of habitat in the Metolius River, 5.5 miles of Whychus Creek, 2.7 

miles of Street Creek and 3,926 acres of habitat associated with Lake Billy Chinook. This unit provides 

spawning, rearing, foraging, migratory, connecting, and overwintering habitats.

Within the Odell Lake Unit (Unit 7) the designation includes 17 miles of stream (Odell, Trapper, Crystal, 

and Unnammed tributary Creeks) and 3,427 acres of habitat associated with Odell Lake. This unit 

provides spawning and rearing habitat.

Critical habitat is defined in section 3 of the Act as (50 CFR Part 17 p. 19):

• The specific areas within the geographical area occupied by a species, at the time it is listed in 

accordance with the Act, on which are found those physical or biological features

• Essential to the conservation of the species and

• That may require special management considerations or protection and

• Specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by a species at the time it is listed, upon a 

determination that such areas are essential for the conservation of the species

Primary constituent elements are those physical and biological features necessary in the appropriate 

quantity and spatial arrangement for the conservation of the species and these may require special 

management considerations and protection. Primary constituent elements of habitat include but are not 

limited to (50 CFR Part 17 p. 20):
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 185

• Space for individual and population growth and for normal behavior

• Food, water, air, light, minerals, or other nutritional or physiological requirements

• Cover or shelter

• Sites for breeding, reproduction, and rearing (or development) of offspring

• Habitats that are protected from disturbance or are representative of the historic geographical and 

ecological distributions of a species

Primary constituent elements in the necessary and appropriate quantity and spatial arrangement essential 

for the conservation of the bull trout were derived from the biological needs of the species. Table 58, 

below, describes each Primary Constituent Element.

Table 58. 2010 Primary Constituent Elements and Associated Habitat Indicators

Primary Constituent Element Habitat Indicators

1. Springs, seeps, groundwater sources, and subsurface 

water connectivity (hyporehic flows) to contribute to water 

quality and quantity and provide thermal refugia.

Indicator: Floodplain connectivity

Indicator: Change in peak/base flows

2. Migratory habitats with minimal physical, biological, or 

water quality impediments between spawning, rearing, 

overwintering, and freshwater and marine foraging 

habitats, including but not limited to permanent, partial, 

intermittent or seasonal barriers.

Indicator: Physical barriers

Indicator: Chemical contaminants/nutrients,

temperature

Indicator: Change in peak/base flows

3. An abundant food base including terrestrial organisms 

of riparian origin, aquatic macroinvertebrates, and forage 

fish.

Indicators: Floodplain connectivity, large wood, pool 

frequency, stream bank condition, temperature

4. Complex river, stream, lake, reservoir, and marine 

shoreline aquatic environments and processes with 

features such as woody debris, side channels, pools, 

undercut banks and substrates, to provide a variety of 

depths, gradients, velocities, and structure.

Indicators: Large wood, pool frequency and

quality, large pools, off channel habitat, refugia

Indicators: wetted width/maximum depth ratio, stream 

bank condition, floodplain connectivity

5. Water temperatures ranging from 2 to 15C (36 to 59F), 

with adequate thermal refugia available for temperatures 

at the upper end of this range. Specific temperatures 

within this range will vary depending on bull trout life

history stage and form; geography; elevation; diurnal and 

seasonal variation; shade, such as that provided by 

riparian habitat, and local groundwater influence.

Indicator: Temperature

6. Substrates of sufficient amount, size, and composition 

to ensure success of egg and embryo overwinter survival, 

fry emergence, and young-of-the-year and juvenile 

survival. A minimal amount (e.g., less than 12 percent) of 

fine substrate less than0.85 cm (0.03 in) in diameter and 

minimal embeddedness of these fines in larger substrates 

are characteristic of these conditions.

Indicator: Sediment

Indicator: Substrate embeddedness

7. A natural hydrograph, including peak, high, low, and 

base flows within historic ranges or,if flows are controlled, 

they minimize departures from a natural hydrograph. 

Indicator: Change in peak/base flows

8. Sufficient water quality and quantity such that normal 

reproduction,growth and survival are not inhibited.

Indicator: Chemical contamination/nutrients

9. Few or no nonnative predatory (e.g., lake trout, walleye, 

northern pike, smallmouth bass; inbreeding (e.g., brook 

trout); or competive (e.g., brown trout) species present.

Indicator: Native species assembleages
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

186 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 10. Designated Critical Habitat – Metolius River and tributaries
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 187

Figure 11. Designated Critical Habitat – Lake Billy Chinook, Deschutes River, Whychus Creek, and Crooked 

River
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

188 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 12. Designated Critical Habitat for Odell
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 189

Steelhead

Critical habitat for Mid-Columbia Steelhead was designated in August of 2005 on the Ochoco National 

Forest. It included all existing (at that time) steelhead occupied habitat and includes steelhead bearing 

waters of Trout Creek (tributary to the Deschutes River) along with occupied tributaries of the John Day 

River and South Fork John Day River. Refer to the map below for location on the Forest of critical 

habitat. There was no critical habitat designated on the Deschutes National Forest or Crooked River

National Grassland because areas on these two units were above the Pelton/Round Butte Dam complex 

that, at the time, did not have passage for steelhead either upstream or downstream.

Figure 13. Steelhead Critical Habitat

Sensitive Species

Sensitive species are established under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 as amended (ESA). There are 

four sensitive species that are evaluated in this document. They are the Malhuer mottled sculpin (Cottus

bairdi), West-slope cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki lewisi), Mid-Columbia River spring Chinook 

salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), and redband trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Three species, the 

Malhuer mottled sculpin, West-slope cutthroat trout, and Mid-Columbia River spring Chinook salmon 

would have a no impact determination under the ESA because there are no known populations in the 

project area. Redband trout is the only sensitive salmonid known to occur within the project area and the 

effects to this species and habitat have been evaluated in detail.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

190 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Analysis of Environmental Effects

The following discussion includes the possible effects of both cross-country travel and motorized access 

for dispersed camping. Studies across the United States on the effects of both two and four wheeled offhighway vehicles (OHVs) have produced consistent findings. This brief review is not meant to be 

exhaustive of the literature that has been published, but is meant to show the general conclusions that are 

almost universally agreed upon within the literature. 

In a review of literature, Manning (1979) showed that recreation can affect vegetation in a few different 

ways, which included trampling and compaction of the soil. Numerous studies showed that the primary 

effects of OHVs on soils include surface disruption and compaction which can lead to increases in runoff 

and erosion. Foltz (2006) found that in all cases (low, medium, and high disturbance) for ATV trails that 

sediment movement and loss would be expected to increase due to ATV traffic over undisturbed areas. 

Others have found similar results with effects including gullying, compaction and increased soils

exposure, along with lower vegetative species diversity. Similarly, Webb et al. (1978) studied effects on 

six soil types and found increases in erosion, decreased surface strength in sandy and loamy soils, 

resulting in impediments to revegetation. In clay soils, surface strength increased which may increase 

runoff. This was also noted by Wilshire et al. (1978) in a study of over 400 sites in seven states and 

included increased density. This increase in density resulted in decreased infiltration, increased runoff, 

increased erosion and sediment yield and prevented revegetation. Numerous other studies found similar 

effects of reduced vegetation, reduced infiltration, increased runoff, and increased erosion as a result of 

OHV use in areas. 

Vegetative buffer strips to reduce sediment input adjacent to dispersed camping sites along streams are 

known to reduce sediment yield to streams as the sediment is trapped by the vegetation and duff layers. 

While the general rule is that the wider the vegetative strip the better, it appears to be mostly correlated 

with slope (steeper slopes require larger/wider vegetative buffers). Most dispersed sites are located on flat 

terrain (0 to 5 percent slope) on terraces where minimum vegetative buffers would allow for sediment 

filtering before runoff into water bodies. Rashin et al. (2006) found that a 10 meter (32.8 ft.) setback of 

felling and yarding activities prevented sediment delivery to streams from about 95 percent of harvest 

related erosion features, and said a wider setback may be advisable on portions of units where steep inner 

gorges extend beyond 10 meters. Haupt and Kidd (1965) found that 9 meter (29.5 feet) buffer strips in 

central Idaho were sufficient to remove sediment. Heade (1990) found buffer strips ranging between 7 

and 25 meters (23 and 82 feet) were needed on 23 to 25 percent slopes in ponderosa pine.

Larger vegetative buffer stripes to reduce sediment from upland areas have also been analyzed. The 

scientific literature in support of 300 foot wide corridors being adequate to filter sediment includes 

FEMAT (1993), which cites a number of studies including Broderson (1973) who found that in three 

watersheds in western Washington 200 foot buffers, or about one site-potential tree height, would be 

effective to remove sediment in most situations if the buffer were measured from the edge of the 

floodplain. This study was used in part as information to help determine riparian reserve widths for the 

Northwest Forest Plan and associated Aquatic Conservation Strategy which are 300 feet in width for fish 

bearing streams. 

General Effects of Motorized Access on Fisheries

Effects to fisheries resources and populations of native and non-native resident and anadromous fish, and 

to threatened and endangered listed species and their designated or proposed critical habitat across both 

Forests could come from changes in any of the following conditions:
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 191

• Vegetation – loss of riparian vegetation can result in loss of shade and increase in stream 

temperatures. 

• Bank stability – unstable banks can be susceptible to erosion, resulting in an increase in fine sediment 

input to fisheries habitat. 

• Sediment – increased erosion from upland and riparian areas due to motorized use can result in an 

increase in sediment to streams.

There are generally only indirect effects to fish populations from motorized access based on where 

motorized access to streams, lakes, or the banks of wetlands is available. Important habitat components of 

pools and large woody debris are unlikely to be directly or indirectly affected in a measurable way by this 

type of access. 

Indirectly, water temperature, rearing habitat, and spawning habitat can be affected by cross-country 

travel and motorized access for dispersed camping. However, due to the small localized nature of the 

project sites (dispersed sites and unauthorized roads and trails) across the landscape it is doubtful that 

changes could be measured at the local drainage level that are directly attributed to motorized access. 

These potential effects are a result of effects from motorized access that include soil compaction and 

denuding of vegetation, which could lead to reduced shade and bank stability and increased soil erosion.

These conditions in turn, could lead to increased stream or lake turbidity, embeddedness of spawning 

gravels and rearing areas, along with localized increases in water temperatures on any sites where 

vegetation directly shades streams.

The following sections evaluate more specifically the potential effects of each of the alternatives on 

fisheries habitats and populations. These effects are based on the consideration of the amount of area 

where cross-country travel would be allowed and the amount of area and conditions under which 

motorized access for dispersed camping would be allowed adjacent to riparian areas. These factors can 

affect the potential amount of area resulting in the conditions described above that could indirectly affect 

fisheries. The following evaluation describes data concerning known dispersed sites as a proxy for the 

kind of impacts that could be anticipated across the Forests under each of the alternatives. 

Alternative 1 

The following tables include data for both motorized cross-country travel and motorized travel 

for dispersed camping. There are about 439 open dispersed sites adjacent to Forest and Grassland 

water bodies in the current forest database.54 

 

54 Estimates of acres and linear distance of impacted bank are from the assumptions described in the Assumptions and 

Methodologies section. Both Forests and the Grassland have GIS layers that have mapped some dispersed camp sites. In some 

cases these have been updated recently (1-5 years old) while in others the mapped sites are as many as 20 years old. On both 

Forests the GIS layer is incomplete and does not include all existing dispersed sites, but it does provide a starting point for 

discussion on proximity and effects. It was assumed for this analysis that any dispersed site that is mapped within 100 feet of a 

water body is directly adjacent to that water body or bank of the water body. While this may over estimate the actual number of 

dispersed sites adjacent to water bodies, without more current specific information about actual site locations, it was determined 

that this method of estimation would provide a reasonable basis for projecting effects.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

192 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 59. Alternative 1 numbers, acres, and linear feet of dispersed sites adjacent to water bodies by Forest

Number of dispersed sites 

adjacent to stream channels, 

lakes, wetlands

Acres of dispersed sites 

adjacent to stream 

channels, lakes, wetlands

Linear distance of 

potentially impacted bank 

in feet

Deschutes Och/CRNG Deschutes Och/CRNG Deschutes Och/CRNG

T and E only 

Watersheds 108 27 18 5 5,400 1,350

Resident Fish only 

Watersheds 122 182 21 31 6,100 9,100

Alternative 1 Total 230 209 39 36 11,500 10,450

Table 60. Alternative 1 acres open to cross-country travel within100 feet of water bodies

Acres open to cross-country travel– within 100 feet of stream channels, 

lakes, and wetlands

Deschutes Ochoco

T and E only Watersheds 5,688 6,656

Resident Fish only Watersheds 10,274 33,232

Alternative 1 Total 15,962 39,888

Table 61. Acres open in riparian reserves or riparian habitat conservation areas for dispersed camping

Acres Open in riparian reserves or riparian habitat conservation 

areas for dispersed camping

Alternative 1 Deschutes Ochoco

Total 75,741 62,062

Table 62. Larger impacted sites/areas as identified in the current condition 4th field HUC sections (best 

professional estimate of size)

Area/Site Number of acres open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping

Deschutes NF

Crane Prairie Reservoir 60

Wickiup Reservoir 910

Meadow Lakes 20

Metolius/Jack Creek/Canyon Creek 9

Ochoco NF

Whychus Creek crossing area 20

McKay Creek 9,000

As seen in the previous tables, of the sample sites, there are potentially over 2 miles of linear bank 

impacted by motorized access for dispersed camping on both the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. 

This accounts for approximately 39 acres and 36 acres respectively on the two Forests that are currently 

used as dispersed sites adjacent to stream or other water bodies/wetlands. There are over 75,000 acres 

within riparian areas on the Deschutes open to motorized access for dispersed camping and another 

62,000 acres on the Ochoco. In addition, there are almost 16,000 acres of area open on the Deschutes to 

cross-country travel within 100 feet of streams, water bodies, or wetlands, and almost 40,000 acres on the 

Ochoco. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 193

Effects to fisheries resources in Alternative 1 include the following:

• Increased erosion and sediment yield to streams from increased use over time of dispersed sites and 

an increase in the number of dispersed sites (see recreation section) directly adjacent to streams, 

lakes, and wetland banks (no 30 foot setback)55 

• Increased number of access routes to dispersed sites and associated increase in erosion from these 

areas as a result of soil compaction and displacement

• Increased use and creation of new dispersed sites and routes over time resulting in increased sediment 

delivery into adjacent water bodies (see the recreation section in this EIS) 

• Increased turbidity from sediment entering water bodies

• Decreased bank stability from continued and expanded use along water bodies

• Decreased vegetation and associated shade adjacent to water bodies

Potential effects to fisheries resources and populations include localized increases in turbidity, decreases 

in vegetation and associated shade or bank stability, and potential increases in sediment loads in stream 

systems. 

Turbidity

Increased turbidity increases would only occur during runoff events during the year, but would occur 

every year. These runoff events would be during spring snow melt, summer thunder showers, or fall/early 

winter rains. Increased turbidity could cause disruption in feeding and rearing activities for salmonids 

depending on the overall quantity and duration. Overall, it is difficult to measure these effects across the 

project area. There may be some localized areas and drainages directly adjacent to dispersed sites and/or 

hydrologically connected to motorized access routes that could show effects, however these are not 

currently measured or monitored. 

Vegetation

Areas of reduced vegetation, as seen in the literature review, would grow as dispersed sites expand in 

number and area impacted increases. The main effect would be less filtering of sediment as the vegetative 

strip between the motorized access and the water body decreases in width, and potentially a reduction in 

bank stability as root holding capacity is decreased. This would indirectly lead to increased turbidity (see 

effects above) and potential increases in fine sediment bedload (see effects below) which could impact 

spawning and rearing success in the long term directly adjacent to these sites. 

The decrease in vegetation could also impact shading in some small localized areas. If this occurs in 

backwater areas there could be an increase in water temperature that could affect aquatic species, 

including salmonids, by driving them out of the area. Increased water temperature would occur during the 

hottest months of the year (July and August). Increased water temperatures would be associated with 

areas where dispersed sites are on the east, south and west sides of a water body as the loss of vegetation 

in those areas provide the solar exposure necessary to warm the water. If this decrease in shade is 

associated with streams/rivers, then effects would be immeasurable as the small area and flow of water 

would negate any measurable increase in temperature. For the purposes of this analysis any increases in 

 

55 This would be generally true across both Forests and the Grassland, however it should be noted that in areas where use is 

deemed “excessive” management actions would be taken to reduce the effects over time.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

194 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

stream temperatures would be immeasurable due to the type of vegetation impacted, the size of sites, and 

the widely spaced arrangement of the sites. See the water quality/303d listed stream segments discussion 

elsewhere in this EIS for additional information.

Sediment

Bank stability should continue to decrease adjacent to dispersed sites and in areas of cross-country travel 

as these sites and areas increase in size and number. This instability could increase bedload sediment, 

impacting spawning and rearing success by decreasing interstitial spaces in the gravel. Assuming that this 

erosion and depositional process continues to occur, the effects would be long term in the areas affected. 

The six main water bodies identified in Table 62 as larger “impacted” areas by the fisheries biologist, 

based on professional knowledge of the ground impacts through direct observations, would be the areas of 

greatest concern. Other sites could be similar. Water bodies, fish habitat and populations directly adjacent 

to these areas likely show some level of effect from increased sediment. Although it has not been 

quantified, it has been noted visually as bank trampling, denuding of vegetated surfaces, rill and gully 

erosion, and resulting increase in sediment loads. This may decrease spawning success and may decrease 

hiding cover for juvenile salmonids and other aquatic species, as interstices in the gravel are filled. Of 

these six areas, the McKay Creek watershed on the Ochoco National Forest has recently been closed to 

travel off of designated routes. This closure is similar to the implementation of Alternatives 2 and 3. The 

other five areas continue to be open with no restrictions on cross-country travel or restrictions on how 

close dispersed camping can occur to water bodies.

Essential Fish Habitat 

Essential Fish habitat for spring Chinook has been designated across both Forests and the Grassland. 

Alternative 1 would result in continued increases in turbidity, increases in fine sediment and potentially 

some decreases in shading of localized areas from motorized access for dispersed camping and crosscountry travel. However these effects are difficult to measure due to the scattered nature of the motorized 

access and erosional areas, and the indirect nature of the effects of changes in vegetation conditions, soil 

compaction and erosion on fisheries and essential habitat conditions. Therefore this alternative would 

have no adverse affect to essential fish habitat.

Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Species and Critical Habitat

Threatened, endangered and sensitive species habitat and populations are located across both Forests and 

the Grassland. Sensitive species of redband trout are located throughout most of the two Forests and 

Grassland. Bull trout habitat and populations are located in the Odell Lake and Odell Creek 5th field 

watersheds, the Metolius watersheds, Lower Whychus Creek and Lower Crooked River 5th field 

watersheds. Steelhead are located in all watersheds along the north slope of the Ochoco National Forests, 

the watersheds that flow easterly into the South Fork of the John Day below the South Fork Falls, McKay 

Creek, Whychus Creek and lower Deschutes River and Crooked River watersheds. 

The Matrix of Pathways and Indicators (as developed by National Marine Fisheries Service and U.S. Fish 

and wildlife Service), which is designed to summarize important environmental parameters and levels of 

condition (for habitat for ESA listed species) includes a variety of habitat attributes that could be affected 

by federal actions. The proposed actions in Alternatives 2 and 3 could affecty turbidity, shade/water 

temperature, and fine sediment. Effects to these species are the same as outlined above. While it is 

difficult to measure specific effects due to the scattered nature of the dispersed sites and erosional areas, 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 195

if no federa action is taken (Alternative 1), there would be continued increases in turbidity, increases in 

fine sediment and potentially some decreases in shading of localized areas. Since the No Action 

alternative would not constitute a federal action, for bull trout and steelhead under this alternative, there is 

no federal action upon which to base a determination of the effect on individuals or their habitats under 

the ESA. Critical habitat for steelhead has been designated on the Ochoco National Forest. Critical habitat 

for bull trout is also designated on the Deschutes National Forest and the Crooked River National 

Grassland. Steelhead critical habitat has been designated in the same areas as the current distribution of 

known steelhead populations (as of the August 2005 designation date). Effects to steelhead critical habitat 

are the same as those for steelhead as outlined above. Bull trout critical habitat has been designated within 

National Forest and Grassland boundaries and includes known distribution of bull trout and some historic 

distribution. Effects to bull trout critical habitat are the same as those for bull trout outlined above. 

Alternatives 2 and 3

The greatest beneficial effect of Alternatives 2 and 3 is the reduced number of acres available to crosscountry travel within 100 feet of streams, lakes, and water bodies when compared with Alternative 1. 

Neither Alternatives 2 nor 3 would have any acres available for motorized access off designated routes 

within 100 feet of a stream, lake or water body. 

The tables below show the estimated 421 open dispersed sites adjacent to water bodies on the Deschutes 

National Forest, and 202 on the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland. Estimates of acres and linear 

distance of impacted bank are from the Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping - Assumptions section 

at the beginning of this chapter. Both Forests and the Grassland have GIS layers with mapped dispersed 

sites. In some cases these have been updated recently (1-5 years old) while in others the mapped sites are 

as many as 20 years old. On both Forests it is known that the GIS layer is incomplete and most likely 

does not include all existing dispersed sites, but it does provide a starting point for discussion on 

proximity and effects. It was assumed for this analysis that any dispersed site that is mapped within 100 

feet of a water body is directly adjacent to that water body or bank of the water body. While this may over 

estimate the actual number of dispersed sites adjacent to water bodies, without complete information it 

was determined that this method of estimation would provide a reasonable way of comparing effects. It 

was also assumed that motorized access for dispersed camping would be limited to existing, designated or 

defined campsites no closer than 30 feet from a water body.

There is no measurable distinction between Alternatives 2 and 3 for fisheries resources because any 

changes in management outside of the 300 feet riparian Special Provision areas along routes would not 

change shade, large wood debris, or sediment inputs along water bodies. 

As an example of the likely benefits, the inventoried dispersed sites are described below. 

Table 63. Acres open to cross-country travel – within 100 feet of stream channels, lakes, and wetlands

Alternative 1 Alternatives 2 and 3

Deschutes Ochoco Deschutes Ochoco

T&E Watersheds 5,688 6,656 0 0

Resident Fish Watersheds 10,274 33,232 0 0

Totals 15,962 39,888 0 0
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

196 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 64. Acres open in riparian reserves or riparian habitat conservation areas to motorized access for 

dispersed camping under Special Provisions (distance measured from edge of water body)

Alternative 1 Alternatives 2 and 3

Deschutes No Special Provision areas 15,109

Ochoco No Special Provision areas 20,740

Totals 137,000 35,849

Table 65. Alternatives 2 and 3 - Numbers of acres of dispersed sites adjacent to water bodies

Number of dispersed sites 

adjacent to stream channels, 

lakes, wetlands

Acres of dispersed sites 

adjacent to stream channels, 

lakes, wetlands

Linear distance of potentially 

impacted bank in feet

Deschutes Och/CRNG Deschutes Och/CRNG Deschutes Och/CRNG

T&E only 

Watersheds 245 27 42 5 6,125 675

Resident Fish 

only 

Watersheds

176 182 30 29 4,400 4,375

Alternatives 2 

and 3 Total 421 209 72 34 10,525 5,050

Table 66. Alternatives 2 and 3 - Estimate of larger ‘impacted’ sites/areas after implementation (best estimate 

of size and associated assumptions) that would allow for access for dispersed camping as a result of the Rule

Area/Site Estimate of acres

Deschutes NF

Crane Prairie Reservoir 30 acres – assume that 50% of impacted area is from cross-country travel

Wickiup Reservoir 450 acres - assume that 50% of impacted area is from cross-country travel

Meadow Lakes 10 acres – combination of user created trails to be closed and moving of 

motorized access for dispersed camping back from water’s edge

Metolius/Jack Creek/Canyon Creek 3 acres – decrease in cross-country travel

Ochoco NF

Whychus Creek crossing area 4 acres – majority of the impact is from cross-country travel

McKay Creek 200 acres – area closure for cross-country travel and restrictions to only 

designated sites for dispersed camping.

Table 65 represents the number of acres of inventoried dispersed sites adjacent to water bodies in 

Alternatives 2 and 3, which is an increase over Alternative 1 by 191 dispersed sites on the Deschutes

National Forest. This is mainly because of temporary closures due to recent fires that would eventually be 

lifted and the area opened to dispersed camping. Areas that are closed to motorized access for dispersed 

camping under a temporary public use restriction as a result of wildfire would be opened for motorized 

access for dispersed camping when the Forest Service has determined conditions are sufficiently 

recovered to no longer warrant the closure.

Overall there is a decrease in the linear feet of bank impacted from motorized access for dispersed 

camping on both Forests. Acres impacted by motorized access for dispersed camping would be reduced 

across both Forests compared to Alternative 1. Acres open to motorized access for dispersed camping 

within riparian reserves or riparian habitat conservation areas are reduced from about 75,000 acres on the 

Deschutes to 15,000 acres, and on the Ochoco from about 62,000 acres to 20,000 acres. This type of 

reduction is also seen in the larger “impacted areas” listed in Table 66, where reduction in acres affected 

has been approximated. The following effects would be expected:
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 197

• Decreased erosion due to motorized access for dispersed camping directly adjacent to streams in 

some areas, wetlands and water bodies (30 foot setback) – even with the “increase” in the number of 

dispersed sites as a result of temporary fire closure openings, because of the 30 foot setback.

• Decreased turbidity from sediment entering water bodies in some areas adjacent to dispersed sites. 

• Potential increase in fine sediment and turbidity in some locations adjacent to dispersed sites due to 

the potential increased used from use only in designated, defined, or existing sites.

• Increased bank stability from decreased motorized use.

• Increased vegetation and associated shade adjacent to water bodies.

There are anticipated effects to bull trout and steelhead populations, stream habitat or critical habitat from 

either Alternatives 2 or 3, however, they are not anticipated to be measureable. Overall, there could be a 

benefit in some areas to both threatened and endangered fish and resident fisheries habitat, critical habitat 

and populations as a result of this new rule because of limits on where motorized vehicle access can 

occur. Other areas could have an increase in turbidity or fine sediment as a result of increased use in some 

existing, designated or defined sites, although the amount of increase will not be measureable. Effects to 

fisheries resources and populations include localized decreases in turbidity, increases in vegetation and 

associated shade or bank stability, and potential decreases in sediment loads in stream systems. 

Turbidity

Decreased turbidity would occur during runoff events during the year, every year. These runoff events 

would occur during spring snow melt, summer thunder showers, or fall/early winter rains. However, the 

turbidity levels as a result of motorized access for dispersed camping cross-country travel should decrease 

in response to a decrease in areas accessible by motorized vehicle adjacent to streams and water bodies. 

Turbidity levels would decrease because vegetation would return on currently denuded areas, in turn 

filtering sediment that previously would have been entering those water bodies. Vegetation along banks 

would increase in the area of the 30 foot setback for motorized use. As seen in Table 59, the linear feet of 

bank disturbance is expected to decrease across both Forests and the Grassland. This would increase bank 

stability and decrease the amount of sediment/turbidity that would reach the stream system during rain or 

snow melt events. Decreased turbidity from this action would be difficult to measure due to the scattered 

nature of the ground disturbance and the timing of run-off events. However, any improvement would 

allow for less disruption in feeding and rearing activities for salmonids depending on the overall quantity 

and duration. 

Overall, it is difficult to measure these effects across the project area. There may be some localized areas 

directly adjacent to dispersed sites that could see decreased turbidity due to decreased motorized use 

directly adjacent to the banks of streams, lakes, or wetlands and increased vegetative cover. However, 

these areas are not currently measured or monitored. 

Vegetation

Vegetation recovery associated with moving dispersed sites directly adjacent to water bodies away from 

the water’s edge, and from decreased cross-country travel; would result in increased sediment filtering as 

the band of vegetation between the motorized route or site and the water body increases in width, 

potentially increasing bank stability as root holding capacity is increased. This would indirectly lead to 

decreased turbidity (see effects above) and to a potential decrease in fine sediment bedload (see effects 

below) which could improve spawning and rearing success, in the long term, directly adjacent to these 

sites. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

198 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Vegetation recovery could also impact some small localized areas relative to shade. If this occurs in 

backwater areas there could be a decrease in water temperature such that aquatic species, including 

salmonids, may be affected. These potential decreases in water temperature would be during the hottest 

months of the year (July and August). Decreased water temperatures would be associated with areas 

where dispersed sites are located on the east, south and west sides of a water body as the recovery of 

vegetation in those areas would intercept solar exposure, preventing the water from warming. If increased 

shade is associated with streams/rivers, then effects would be immeasurable as the small area and flow of 

water would negate any measurable decrease in temperature. Overall, although Alternatives 2 and 3 

would provide for some potential benefits to bank vegetation by prohibiting motorized access, any 

indirect decreases in stream temperatures would likely be immeasurable due to the type of vegetation 

impacted, the size of sites, and the widely spaced arrangement of the sites. See the water quality/303d 

listed stream segments discussion elsewhere in this document for additional information.

These changes would probably not occur in the short term (0-5 years) as vegetation would be slow to 

recover. However in the mid-term (5-10 years) and long term (10+ years) benefits from recovered 

vegetation would begin to show.

Sediment 

Bank stability adjacent to dispersed sites and in areas closed to cross-country travel would likely continue 

to increase as recovering vegetation decreases the size of these sites and areas. This stability could affect 

fisheries resources by decreasing bedload sediment that could impact spawning and rearing success by 

decreasing interstitial spaces in the gravel. Assuming that this erosion and depositional process decreases 

in size and scope, the effects of reducing fine sediment input to fish habitat and the resulting increase in 

overall gravel size and benefit to spawning success would be long term in the areas affected. 

The six main areas identified earlier in this report as “large impacted” areas would be the largest areas to 

benefit from the implementation of either action alternative. Water bodies, fish habitat and populations 

directly adjacent or hydrologically connected to these areas would likely show some level of effect from 

decreased sediment. Although it has not been quantified it has been noted visually that there is bank 

trampling, denuding of vegetated surfaces, rill and gully erosion; and a resulting increase in sediment 

loads in these areas. Recovery times for reducing sediment are tied to recovery of the vegetative 

component (see vegetation section above). In the short term (0-5 years) there would likely not be much 

change as denuded areas are slow to recover without active management. In the mid-term to long term 

there would be reduced sediment from motorized use of dispersed camping areas and from the decrease in 

cross-country travel. This is especially true in the larger “impacted” areas where much of the current 

impact is a result of cross-country travel.

This long term recovery in areas adjacent to streams (McKay, Whychus, and Metolius/Jack/Canyon) may 

increase spawning success and may increase hiding cover for juvenile salmonids and other aquatic species 

as bedload fine sediment is reduced as a result of limiting motorized access across the Forests. 

In addition, while there may be an increase in OHV use and speed on existing designated open roads and 

trails, the amount of use and the increase in speed is unknown. For fish, fish habitat, stream 

sedimentation, and water quality any increase in speed would have no effect. Speed along a road or trail 

will not change habitat qualities or impact fish species since any slight increase in speed would not 

increase sediment production from these surfaces.

Increased use may or may not produce additional sediment depending on a variety of factors all of which 

are unknown quantities. The amount of actual increased use is unknown for any of the routes. While it is 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 199

suspected that there would be increased use; where and when that will occur is also unknown. Depending 

on the time of year increased use on slightly wet roads would have no effect on fish, fish habitat or water 

quality since there would be no increase in fine sediments produced from the road or trail system. 

Summer or dry season use may have potential for producing fine sediments. However, roads and trails 

that are designated open have been designed and contain features that should control fine sediment that 

could be produced by use. Their features may include of the following: paved surfaces, rocked/graveled 

surfaces, road surface out-sloping, drainage ditches, road and trail cross drains, drain-dips, and vegetated 

surfaces to filter sediment before it reaches streams or other water bodies.

Essential Fish Habitat

Essential fish habitat for spring Chinook has been designated across both Forests and the Grassland. 

While it would be difficult to measure specific effects due to the scattered nature of the dispersed sites 

and erosional areas, there would be beneficial effects from decreased localized turbidity and fine 

sediment, and increases in vegetative cover and potentially shade as a result of this action. As a result of 

this analysis,for Alternatives 2 and 3, there has been a finding of no adverse effect to essential fish 

habitat for spring Chinook in accordance with the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and 

Management Act. 

Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Species, and Critical Habitat 

Threatened, endangered and sensitive species habitat and populations are located across both Forests and 

the Grassland. Sensitive species of redband trout are located throughout most of the two Forests and 

Grassland. Bull trout habitat and populations are located in the Odell Lake and Odell Creek watersheds, 

the Metolius watersheds, Lower Whychus Creek and Lower Crooked River watersheds. Steelhead are 

located in all watersheds along the north slope of the Ochoco National Forest, the watersheds that flow 

easterly into the South Fork of the John Day below the South Fork Falls, McKay Creek, Whychus Creek 

and lower Deschutes River and Crooked River watersheds. 

The Matrix of Pathways and Indicators (as developed by National Marine Fisheries Service and U.S. Fish 

and Wildlife Service), which is designed to summarize important environmental parameters and levels of 

condition, includes a variety of habitat attributes that could be affected by implementation of projects. In 

this project, as outlined above, only turbidity, shade/water temperature, and fine sediment could be 

affected. Effects to these species are the same as outlined above. While it would be difficult to measure 

specific effects due to the scattered nature of the dispersed sites and erosional areas, there would continue 

to be increased turbidity, increased fine sediment and potentially some decrease in shading of localized 

areas. For bull trout and steelhead this alternative would have a may affect, not likely to adversely 

affect, and for redband would have a beneficial impact (USFWS and NMFS Consultation Handbook – 

March 1998). These affects are based on an overall decrease in the acres across both Forests and the 

Grassland available for cross-country travel, and a decrease in size of the dispersed sites in riparian areas 

adjacent to water bodies. This could decrease erosion from motorized use, decrease areas with bank 

instability and increase riparian plant and shrub cover as motorized use decreases. There is the possibility 

of increased use of dispersed sites as a result of limiting dispersed camping to existing, defined, or 

designated sites. As a result, turbidity, fine sediment bedload, and shade could increase slightly at some 

sites but this increase would likely be unmeasureable. 

Critical habitat for steelhead has been designated on the Ochoco National Forest. Steelhead critical habitat 

has been designated in the same areas as the current distribution of known steelhead populations (as of the 

August 2005 designation date). Effects to steelhead critical habitat are no adverse effect, likely 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

200 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

beneficial effect although that would not be measurable. Bull trout critical habitat has been proposed only 

on the Deschutes National Forest and the Crooked River National Grassland. Effects to bull trout critical 

habitat are, May Effect, Not Likely to Adversely Affect, although that would not be measurable. They 

are presented in the following table.

Table 67. 2010 Primary Constituent Elements and Associated Effects

Primary Constituent Element Habitat Indicators and Potential Effects

1. Springs, seeps, groundwater sources, and subsurface water 

connectivity (hyporehic flows) to contribute to water quality and 

quantity and provide thermal refugia.

Indicator: Floodplain connectivity

Indicator: Change in peak/base flows

Effects: No effect to this PCE from this project

2. Migratory habitats with minimal physical, biological, or water 

quality impediments between spawning, rearing, overwintering, 

and freshwater and marine foraging habitats, including but not 

limited to permanent, partial, intermittent or seasonal barriers.

Indicator: Physical barriers

Indicator: Chemical contaminants/nutrients,

temperature

Indicator: Change in peak/base flows

Effects: No effect to this PCE from this project

3. An abundant food base including terrestrial organisms of 

riparian origin, aquatic macroinvertebrates, and forage fish.

Indicators: Floodplain connectivity, large wood, pool frequency, 

stream bank condition, temperature

Effects: No effect to this PCE from this project

4. Complex river, stream, lake, reservoir, and marine shoreline 

aquatic environments and processes with features such as 

woody debris, side channels, pools, undercut banks and 

substrates, to provide a variety of depths, gradients, velocities, 

and structure.

Indicators: Large wood, pool frequency and

quality, large pools, off channel habitat, refugia

Indicators: wetted width/maximum depth ratio, stream bank 

condition, floodplain connectivity

Effects to this PCE are limited to pool quality and stream 

bank condition. Reduction in size and length along the 

stream of dispersed sites, along with reduction in upland 

cross country use should decrease the potential for 

decreases in pool quality and stream bank condition. The 

slight potential for increased use of existing sites due to no 

new site development could potentially increase fine 

sediment inputs from increase bank use. However it is 

unlikely that these effects will be measureable.

5. Water temperatures ranging from 2 to 15C (36 to 59F), with 

adequate thermal refugia available for temperatures at the upper 

end of this range. Specific temperatures within this range will 

vary depending on bull trout life history stage and form; 

geography; elevation; diurnal and seasonal variation; shade, 

such as that provided by riparian habitat, and local groundwater 

influence.

Indicator: Temperature

Effects to this PCE are limited to changes in stream bank 

vegetation as a result of use in dispersed sites. Reduction 

in size and length along the stream of dispersed sites 

should increase riparian vegetation in the long term. 

However effects from this will not be measureable on a 

stream reach basis due to the scattered nature of dispersed 

sites.

6. Substrates of sufficient amount, size, and composition to 

ensure success of egg and embryo overwinter survival, fry 

emergence, and young-of-the-year and juvenile survival. A 

minimal amount (e.g., less than 12 percent) of fine substrate 

less than0.85 cm (0.03 in) in diameter and minimal 

embeddedness of these fines in larger substrates are 

characteristic of these conditions.

Indicator: Sediment

Indicator: Substrate embeddedness

Effects to this PCE are limited to fine substrate amounts. 

Reduction in size and length along the stream of dispersed 

sites, along with reduction in upland cross country use 

should decrease the potential for decreases in pool quality 

and stream bank condition. The slight potential for 

increased use of existing sites due to no new site 

development could potentially increase fine sediment 

inputs from increase bank use. However it is unlikely that 

these effects will be measureable.

7. A natural hydrograph, including peak, high, low, and base 

flows within historic ranges or, if flows are controlled, they 

minimize departures from a natural hydrograph.

Indicator: Change in peak/base flows

Effects: No effect to this PCE from this project

8. Sufficient water quality and quantity such that normal 

reproduction, growth and survival are not inhibited.

Indicator: Chemical contamination/nutrients

Effects: No effect to this PCE from this project

9. Few or no nonnative predatory (e.g., lake trout, walleye, 

northern pike, smallmouth bass; inbreeding (e.g., brook trout); or 

competive (e.g., brown trout) species present.

Indicator: Native species assembleages

Effects: No effect to this PCE from this project
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 201

Biological Evaluation Summary

Table 68 is a summary of the determination of effects for each of the Alternatives made in the Biological 

Evaluation and included in Appendix B. 

The following acronyms are used to identify the determination of effects to aquatic species listed in Table 

68.

Determination Acronyms for Federally Listed 

Species, Critical Habitat and Essential Fish 

Habitat:

NE No Effect

LAA May Effect - Likely to Adversely 

Affect

NLAA May Effect - Not Likely to Adversely 

Affect

BE Beneficial Effect

NAE No Adverse Effect

Determination Acronyms for Sensitive Species:

NI No impact

MIIH

May impact individuals or habitat, but 

will not likely contribute to a trend 

towards federal listing or loss of 

viability to the population or species

WIFV

Will impact individuals or habitat with a 

consequence that the action may 

contribute to a trend towards Federal 

listing or cause a loss of viability to the 

population or species

BI Beneficial impact

Table 68. Determination for threatened, endangered and sensitive aquatic species

Species Listing Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt 3

Redband trout

Oncorhynchus mykiss ssp.

sensitive MIIH BI BI

Malheur mottled sculpin

Cottus bairdi sensitive MIIH NI NI

West Slope cutthroat trout

Oncorhynchus clarki lewisi sensitive NI NI NI

Mid-Columbia River spring chinook Essential Fish Habitat

Oncorhynchus tshawytscha sensitive NAE NAE NAE

Mid-Columbia River spring chinook 

Oncorhynchus tshawytscha sensitive NI NI NI

Bull trout

Salvelinus confluentus threatened NLAA NLAA NLAA

Bull trout Designated Critical Habitat

Salvelinus confluentus threatened NAE NLAA NLAA

Mid-Columbia River steelhead trout

Oncorhynchus mykiss ssp.

threatened NLAA NLAA NLAA

Mid-Columbia River steelhead trout Critical Habitat

Oncorhynchus mykiss ssp. threatened NAE NLAA NLAA

Riparian Management Objectives and Aquatic Conservation Strategy

Riparian Management Objectives (RMOs) for the Deschutes and Ochoco NFs

While there are six RMOs that need to be addressed for projects located in PacFish/InFish56 areas, only 

two of these could be affected by the implementation of this proposed action. Water temperature and bank 

stability are the two RMOs analyzed for effects to both anadromous and resident trout species. The other 

 

56 PacFish is the abbreviation for Managing Anadromous Fish-producing Watersheds in Eastern Oregon and Washington, Idaho, 

and Portions of California. It covers watersheds located within the Upper Columbia River Basin that include anadromous 

salmonids; InFish is the abbreviation for Inland Native Fish Strategy. It covers watersheds located within the Upper Columbia 

Basin that include only resident fish species.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

202 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

RMOs of pool frequency, large woody debris, lower bank angle, and width to depth ratio (scale of change 

to small) are not affected by the implementation of this action. 

Aquatic Conservation Strategy for the Deschutes NF

The Aquatic Conservation Strategy57 (ACS) (NWFP 1994) was developed to restore and maintain the 

ecological health of watersheds and aquatic ecosystems contained within them on public lands. As part of 

the ACS there are standards and guidelines that require that projects that are implemented on National 

Forest lands within the Northwest Forest Plan areas (portions of the Deschutes National Forest for this 

project) “do not retard or prevent attainment of Aquatic Conservation Strategy objectives”. In order to 

make this finding the analysis must include a description of the existing condition, a description of the 

range of natural variability of the important physical and biological components of a given watershed and 

how the proposed project maintains or moves the project toward the natural range of variability.

The current condition portion of the fisheries section of this EIS outlines the important aspects of 

vegetative, soils, hydrology, and fisheries resources and large areas of concern/impacts that are a result of 

either motorized access for dispersed camping or cross-country travel. The following section outlines a 

generalized description of the natural range of variability for important physical and biological 

components across both Forests. The descriptions are generally taken from work done on the Ochoco 

National Forest in the Trout Creek Watershed Analysis (1995) and the Mill Creek Watershed Analysis 

(1996-1997). They have been generalized to describe conditions across the two Forests based on Rosgen 

stream type (1994). While this description includes the physical description of stream types it is assumed 

for this analysis that habitat conditions in the stream and stream access to its floodplain are largely 

independent of motorized access for dispersed camping or cross-country travel because most motorized 

access is limited to terraces above the stream channel and the actions that influence channel morphology 

are larger in scale or scope than the access for a particular dispersed site. 

This analysis will be used to describe expected vegetative conditions adjacent to the stream that could be 

impacted by this access. Most dispersed sites (>99 percent) across both forests are located on inactive 

fluvial landforms adjacent to streams. These surfaces are those that have in the past been active surfaces, 

either as active floodplains or as active channels. For these purposes they are defined as those surfaces 

outside the 15 year floodplain and are referred to here as terraces. Vegetation on these surfaces is 

predominately conifer or mixed conifer with a grass and brush understory.

Active channel surfaces (floodplain, channel, etc) are currently more likely to be at vegetation potential in 

stable systems. Degraded systems may have similar vegetation types but amount/volume may be 

compromised compared to historic. Vegetation on these surfaces in most cases maintains channel form 

and function and is independent of motorized access to dispersed sites and cross-country travel.

Physical Attributes

Stable stream channels have been described in a variety of classification schemes including Rosgen 

(1994). Across both National Forests most channel types exist in various locations and the range of 

natural variability can be described as outlined below.

 

57 The Aquatic Conservation Strategy is management direction of the Northwest Forest Plan that applies only to portions of the 

Deschutes National Forest within the range of the northern spotted owl.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 203

Figure 14. Longitudinal, cross-section and plan view of major stream types

Figure 15. Cross-sectional configuration, composition and delineative criteria of major stream types

Channel Types General Description

Following are generalized descriptions of channel types across both Forests along with a cross sectional 

view of the channel, floodplain and terraces. Access for, and dispersed camping itself, takes place 

predominately on the first or second terrace as depicted in the cross sectional views.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

204 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Channel Type A

The A channel type complex is shaped by the stability of the system. This erosional system, with high 

energy and steep gradients, supports fluvial surfaces that are structurally controlled. A channel types are 

typically at the upper ends of the watersheds located on steeper terrain. 

 

Figure 16. Channel Type A

Channel Type B and C

The majority of these moderately stable channel types are found at lower elevations across the Forests, 

with C types generally lower than B types. Generally B types are erosional/transport channels while C 

type channels are more depositional in nature. 

 

Figure 17. Channel Type B
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 205

Figure 18. Channel Type C

Channel Type DA and E

The DA and E channel types complexes are both low gradient, vegetatively controlled, depositional 

systems. DA supports multiple channels, while the E type is a single channel system. 

Figure 19. Channel Type DA
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

206 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 20. Channel Type E

Channel Type F and G

These two erosion channel types indicate sites where stream channel alteration is evident. F and G 

channels no longer have access to the floodplain, resulting in increased stream energy during high flows, 

and decreased stream bank stability. The F channel type originates from the G type after the stream reequilibrates with channel forming factors. The majority of the “floodplains” in these two complexes are 

inactive surfaces. 

Figure 21. Channel Type F
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 207

Figure 22. Channel Type G

Biological Attributes

The biological attributes that are of concern center mainly around the vegetative component of the 

riparian reserves or riparian habitat conservation areas. The vegetation in these areas provides shade and 

large woody debris (overstory) for the stream, and sediment filtering capacity (understory brushes and 

grasses), along with bank protection and stabilization (both overstory and understory). The vegetative 

concerns are specific to the inactive fluvial landforms. These landforms are the surfaces outside the 15 

year floodplain. Erosional and depositional features on these surfaces are not as dynamic as on active 

landform (floodplain) types. Plant communities are more variable on these landforms and more than 99 

percent of the motorized access across the landscape is located on these surfaces. 

Potential Natural Vegetation Overstory Types with Associated Understory

Table 69 indicates the percentage of potential natural vegetation that occurs within each channel type. 

These vegetation communities are briefly described below. 

Grand fir types: Grand fir as an overstory, moist or dry understory associate including twinflower, 

queencup beadlily, big huckleberry, oceanspray, common snowberry, Columbia brome, elk sedge, pine 

grass, fescues, forbs, and grasses.

Other conifer types: Douglas-fir, ponderosa pine, and western larch as overstory, understory associates 

include common snow berry, elk sedge, pine grass, fescues, dry forbes and grasses.

Cottonwood types: Cottonwood, alder and aspen as overstory, understory of shrubs, dry forbs and 

grasses.

Shrub: Mixed shrub dominated including prickly and stinking currents, thimbleberry, serviceberry, choke 

cherry, baldhip rose, oceanspray, common snowberry, dog wood.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

208 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 69. Potential natural vegetation for terraces adjacent to streams/water bodiesa

Channel Types Ochoco Grassland Deschutes

A 85% grand fir

15% cottonwood

65% shrub

15% juniper

28% white fir

23% shrubs

20% hemlock

B 

61% grand fir

16% cottonwood

11% Doug-fir

65% shrub

15% juniper

39% white fir

31% shrub

10% lodgepole

C 

54 % grand fir

33% cottonwood

10% Doug-fir

65% shrub

15% juniper

43% shrub

24% lodgepole

19% white fir

DA 98% grand fir none none

E 86% grand fir

14% cottonwood

65% shrub

15% juniper

49% shrub

30% lodgepole

16% meadows

F 100% grand fir 65% shrub non-riparian

15% juniper none

G 

66% grand fir

11% cottonwood

22% shrub

65% shrub non-riparian

15% juniper none

a - Percentages range + or – 10% based on aspect and elevation

Summary of Effects on ACS Objectives and RMOs

Implementation of this project will have a beneficial effect on ACS Objectives and RMOs and will move 

the two National Forests and the Grassland toward the natural range of variability for the biological 

components. The physical components (channel type and floodplain) will remain unchanged from 

implementation of this project. As outlined above, most dispersed sites and therefore motorized access to 

dispersed sites, along with cross-country travel are located on the first or second terrace in areas adjacent 

to water bodies. Therefore the access to these areas rarely intersects with the physical components of 

channel type and floodplain.

The biological components would be affected by this project due to a reduction in motorized access 

directly to the stream bank edge and a reduction cross-country travel across the two Forests and the 

Grassland. The project design feature of “no motorized access to existing sites within 30 feet of a 

streambank, wetland or water body” would eliminate compaction and denuding of the area of vegetation 

from motorized access to dispersed sites within this 30 foot buffer. This would allow these areas to return 

to a more natural understory of grasses, forbs, and brush species which would reduce overall 

sedimentation from erosion that flows from outside this buffer through this area to the stream. Sediment 

would be more easily trapped in this vegetated buffer and therefore not travel to water bodies or wetlands. 

Increased understory vegetation in some cases should contribute to shade increases and bank stabilization. 

The direct reduction in cross-country travel would decrease erosion from areas that are currently being 

accessed. As these areas recover, vegetation should stabilize these eroding areas and reduce the sediment 

that may currently be eroding from this use and entering nearby streams and other water bodies or 

wetlands.

The effects to water temperature and bank stability (RMOs) in all alternatives have been analyzed above 

and are summarized in Error! Reference source not found.. These criteria are for attainment of, or 

progress toward the particular RMO. For water temperature the RMO include no measurable increase in 

maximum water temperatures, maximum temperatures below 59°F for adult holding habitat and 48°F for 

spawning and rearing habitats. Bank stability is specific to “non-forested” systems and should exceed 80 

percent stability. Because of the “non-forested” system definition, the only stream systems that this
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 209

objective applies to are the Rosgen E type streams and a few of the Rosgen C type streams located in 

meadows. 

Table 70. Summary – Effects to water temperature and bank stability

Alternative Water Temperature 

RMO Bank Stability RMO Comments

Alt 1 Does not meet RMO Does not meet RMO Effects not measurable but does not meet 

the “progress towards” criteria

Alt 2 Meets RMO Meets RMO Effects not measurable but does make 

progress towards the RMO

Alt 3 Meets RMO Meets RMO Effects not measurable but does make 

progress towards the RMO

Table 71. Summarized ACS Objectives and Effects of the Alternatives

Aquatic Conservation Strategy Objectives Effects of the Alternatives

1. Maintain and restore the distribution, diversity, and complexity 

of watershed and landscape-scale features to ensure protection 

of the aquatic systems to which species, populations and 

communities are uniquely adapted.

This project will not affect landscape scale features in any 

alternative in this project due to the site specificity of the access 

to dispersed sites and access confined to designated routes.

2. Maintain and restore spatial and temporal connectivity within 

and between watersheds. Lateral, longitudinal, and drainage 

network connections include floodplain, wetlands, upslope 

areas, headwater tributaries, and intact refugia.

This project will not affect the spatial or temporal connectivity 

within and between watersheds in any alternative, since it deals 

with very localized areas in most cases and in all cases none of 

the changes are on the scale of affecting connectivity within or 

between watersheds.

3. Maintain and restore the physical integrity of the aquatic 

system, including shorelines, banks and bottom configurations.

For Alternative 1 this project will not contribute to maintaining 

the physical integrity of the aquatic system because of effects to 

banks, vegetation, and soils that contribute to fine sediment 

inputs and vegetative decreases. For Alternatives 2 and 3, on a 

localized basis this project will help to maintain and restore the 

physical integrity of the aquatic system because the project will 

limit motorized vehicle access directly adjacent to stream banks 

which will, in those areas where impacts are occurring, allow for 

revegetation and stabilization of these banks and shorelines that 

are currently impacted.

4. Maintain and restore water quality necessary to support 

healthy riparian, aquatic, and wetland ecosystems.

5. Maintain and restore the sediment regimes under which 

aquatic ecosystems evolved.

For Alternative 1 this project may have some immeasurable 

impacts to water quality and sediment due to continued erosion 

from motorized use. This project may have some impact on 

improving water quality through reduced sediment inputs, 

although the amount will likely be immeasurable for Alternatives 

2 and 3.

6. Maintain and restore in-stream flows sufficient to create and 

sustain riparian, aquatic, and wetland habitats and to retain 

patterns of sediment, nutrient, and wood routing.

7. Maintain and restore the timing, variability, and duration of 

floodplain inundation and water table elevation in meadows and 

wetlands.

This project, in any of the alternatives, will not affect instream 

flows in any way over the two Forests and the Grassland 

because the project only affects terraces and uplands on a small 

scale across the project area.

8. Maintain and restore the species composition and structural 

diversity of plant communities in riparian areas and wetlands.

9. Maintain and restore habitat to support well-distributed 

populations of native plant, invertebrate, and vertebrate riparian 

dependent species.

For Alternative 1 this project would not contribute to the 

accomplishment of this objective, as cross-country travel would 

continue to occur which will have impacts on native vegetation in 

riparian and wetland areas. For Alternatives 2 and 3 this project 

would contribute to the accomplishment of this objective as 

limiting access to motorized vehicles will allow for compositional 

and structural plant diversity to be maintained or increased as 

areas that are currently impacted from vehicular access will be 

allowed to grow vegetation.

In addition, for Objective #9, while immeasurable, invertebrate 

and vertebrate riparian dependent species will likely see an 

increase as vegetation is reestablished across these sites.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

210 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Hydrology 

Executive Summary

Cross-country travel and motorized access for dispersed camping can reduce stream shading and increase 

sediment delivery to streams, water bodies, and wetlands. Assessment of resource conditions on the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests indicate several areas where current unauthorized motorized offroute travel has degraded stream and riparian areas. Implementation of Alternatives 2 or 3 would regulate 

motorized travel off designated routes and would have a positive effect on water quality and wetland 

function. Both action alternatives would reduce the amount of cross-country travel, limit access to 

designated, defined, or existing dispersed campsites for those areas where streams, wetlands, and/or water 

bodies are within 300 feet of designated open roads, as well as establish a 30 foot setback from the 

stream, wetland, or water body for motorized vehicles. 

With the measures outlined above, there are no expected adverse direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to 

water quality from Alternatives 2 or 3. Alternatives 2 and 3 would result in increased stream shading over 

time, however the affected area would be small and scattered and would not result in a measurable change 

in water temperature in the short term (<5 yrs). Implementation of the action alternatives would result in 

decreases in sediment delivery and turbidity primarily as a result of reductions in cross-country travel and 

implementation of special riparian provisions for dispersed camping. However, it would be difficult to 

quantify the amount of sediment directly associated with regulating unauthorized travel due to the 

scattered nature of the disturbance, connectivity to streams, water bodies, and wetlands, and the timing 

and magnitude of runoff events. Effects to water quality and wetlands would be similar under Alternatives 

2 and 3 because special riparian provisions apply to both alternatives, and application of Special 

Provisions to dispersed camping areas further than 300 feet from streams, water bodies, and wetlands in 

Alternative 3 would have little effect to water quality or riparian function. Both action alternatives would 

trend towards compliance with the Clean Water Act including state and tribal water quality standards as 

well as Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines, InFish, PacFish, Northwest Forest Plan and Executive 

Orders 11988 (floodplain management), 11990 (wetland protection) and 12088 (federal compliance with 

pollution control standards). With the projected growth of OHV user recreation, Alternative 1 would trend 

toward non-compliance with water quality standards.

Affected Environment

Watersheds

Watersheds are natural divisions of the landscape and the basic functioning unit of the hydrologic system. 

Watersheds are hierarchical – smaller ones nested within larger ones. For the purpose of analyzing and 

summarizing aquatic and vegetative data a hierarchy of watersheds and watershed boundaries was 

developed by the region using U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) protocols. Identification of these 

watersheds follows the USGS numeric Hydrologic Unit Coding (HUC) system. Environmental changes 

commonly accumulate and appear on a watershed basis. A list of the individual basins, sub basins, and 

watersheds within these areas are included in Table 72 (Watershed Table). Figure 23 (Watershed Map) 

illustrates the relationship of these basins and sub basins to the planning area. The planning area for this 

project is within the John Day, Deschutes, Klamath, and Oregon Closed Basins. As shown in the 

watershed map, Figure 23 (map key is Table 72), the planning area is in 11 sub basins which are further 

broken down into 56 watersheds. All watersheds with a three character map key on the Watershed Map 

overlap one of the National Forests and/or the Grassland. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 211

Table 72. Watershed map key table

Basin Sub-Basin Watershed Hydrologic Unit Code Map Key

Middle 

Columbia 

John Day 

River Basin

Upper John Day 

River

17070201 J1

Mdl SFk John Day River 1707020103 J1c

Lwr SFk John Day River 1707020105 J1e

Upr Middle John Day River 1707020112 J1l

Mountain Creek 1707020113 J1m

Rock Creek 1707020114 J1n

Lower John Day 

River

17070204 J4

Bridge Creek 1707020403 J4c

Middle 

Columbia 

Deschutes 

River Basin

Upper 

Deschutes river

17070301 D1

Crane Prairie 1707030101 D1a

Wickiup 1707030102 D1b

Fall River 1707030103 D1c

Pilot Butte 1707030104 D1d

Tumalo Creek 1707030105 D1e

Deep Canyon 1707030106 D1f

Middle Deschutes 1707030107 D1g

Whychus Creek 1707030108 D1h

Upper Metolius River 1707030109 D1i

Lower Metolius River 1707030110 D1j

Lake Billy Chinook 1707030111 D1k

Little Deschutes 

River 

17070302 D2

Upr Little Deschutes River 1707030201 D2a

Crescent Creek 1707030202 D2b

Middle Little Deschutes River 1707030203 D2c

Sellers Creek 1707030204 D2d

Little Walker Mountain 1707030205 D2e

Long Prairie Slough 1707030206 D2f

Lower Little Deschutes River 1707030207 D2g

South Fork 

Crooked River

17070303 D3

South Fork Beaver Creek 1707030307 D3a

Upper Beaver Creek 1707030308 D3b

Paulina Creek 1707030309 D3c

Lower Beaver Creek 1707030310 D3d

Upper Crooked 

River

17070304 D4

Crooked River abv North Fk 1707030401 D4a

Camp Creek 1707030402 D4b

Upper NFk Crooked River 1707030403 D4c

Deep Creek 1707030404 D4d

Lower NFk Crooked River 1707030405 D4e

Upper Crooked R Valley 1707030406 D4f

Bear Creek 1707030407 D4g

Prineville Reservoir 1707030408 D4h

Lower Crooked 

River

17070305 D5

Upper Ochoco Creek 1707030502 D5b

Mill Creek 1707030503 D5c

Lower Ochoco Creek 1707030504 D5d

McKay Creek 1707030505 D5e

Badlands 1707030506 D5f

Upr Dry River 1707030507 D5g

Lwr Dry River 1707030508 D5h

Lwr Crooked River Valley 1707030510 D5j

Crooked River Grassland 1707030511 D5k

Lower 

Deschutes River

17070306 D6

Hdwtrs Deschutes River 1707030601 D6a

Willow Creek 1707030602 D6b

Trout Creek

17070307 D7

Upper Trout Creek 1707030701 D7a

Hay Creek 1707030703 D7c

Mud Springs Creek 1707030704 D7d

Oregon 

Closed 

Basins

Summer Lake

17120005 C5

McCarty 1712000505 C5e

Pine 1712000506 C5f

Devils Garden 1712000507 C5g

Walker Creek 1712000508 C5h

Klamath/N 

California Co –

Klamath Basin

Williamson

18010201 K1

Klamath Marsh/Jack Creek 1801020102 K1b

NW of Klamath Lake 1801020103 K1c
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

212 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 23. Watershed map (map key is Table 72) 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 213

Climate

Most of the analysis area has a climate of relatively low precipitation and humidity, large daily 

temperature fluctuations throughout the year, and high evaporation rates, with increasing precipitation and 

cooler temperatures as elevation increases to over 9,000 feet in the Cascades. The planning area is in the 

rain shadow of the Cascade Mountains with the majority of the precipitation falling on the west side of 

the divide resulting in a dryer climate in the Deschutes, John Day, Klamath, and Oregon Closed Basins. 

Summers are typically hot and dry and winters cool and moist. Prevailing winds are generally 

southwesterly through westerly.

Mean annual precipitation in the analysis area varies from a minimum of less than 10 inches per year in 

parts of the Crooked River National Grassland, to a maximum of about 33 inches per year in the Ochocos, 

and 140 inches per year at higher elevations in the Cascades on the Deschutes National Forest. 

Precipitation generally increases with increased elevation, and on the Ochoco National Forest also tends 

to increase progressively northward. Figure 24 shows average annual precipitation bands in the analysis 

area.

Figure 24. Average annual precipitation

The majority of precipitation in the planning area occurs between November and March with most of it 

falling as snow at higher elevations. November, December, and January normally have the highest total 

monthly precipitation. Total precipitation usually declines through March and April then increases again 

in May and June as frontal movements bring late spring rains. July, August, and September have the 

lowest average monthly precipitation. August normally has slightly higher precipitation than July or 

September due to summer thunderstorms which may be intense in limited areas. At lower elevations, the 

highest recorded total monthly precipitation for June, July and August may approach the highest recorded 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

214 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

precipitation for the wet months of November and January due to the infrequent occurrence of intense 

summer thunderstorms. In dry years there may be no precipitation during some of the dryer months.

Water Quality

The planning area is highly variable geologically, chemically, and biologically. The Ochoco National 

Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, and much of the Upper Deschutes Sub Basin are in the 

Blue Mountains ecoregion. However, almost all of the watersheds on the Deschutes National Forest drain 

the Eastern Cascades Slopes and Foothills ecoregion or at higher elevations the Cascades ecoregion. 

In the summer of 1997 and 1998, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality collected water 

samples in the Deschutes Basin above Lake Billy Chinook for physical and chemical analysis, as part of 

the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sponsored Regional Environmental Monitoring and 

Assessment Program (R-EMAP). Samples were collected at 49 stations in the basin. Parameters 

determined in the field were water temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity, and turbidity. 

Parameters analyzed in the lab were biochemical oxygen demand-5, total solids, ammonia-N, nitrate-N, 

total Phosphorus, sulfate, total Kjeldahl-N, alkalinity, chemical oxygen demand, dissolved organic carbon, 

and total suspended solids. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality split the basin into three 

sub basins: the Metolius, the Deschutes, and the Crooked River (not the same as USGS sub-basins). The 

Metolius was classified as excellent, The Deschutes as poor to excellent, and the Crooked as very poor to 

excellent. The portion of the John Day Basin and the Lower Deschutes and Trout Creek USGS SubBasins in the planning area should be comparable with the Crooked River. A more detailed description of 

procedures, results, and conclusions can be found in the chemistry summary of the “Upper Deschutes 

River Basin R-EMAP” (Oregon DEQ, 1999).

As specified in the Clean Water Act of 1972 and subsequent amendments, water quality includes all 

attributes that affect existing and designated uses of a body of water which include fisheries and habitat 

needs as well as human uses. The Clean Water Act requires states to review all available water quality 

data every two years and where Best Management Practices (BMPs) or technology based controls are 

insufficient to achieve desired water quality conditions, classify the body of water as “water quality 

limited.” Non-point source pollution is the primary cause of impaired waters on Federal Lands in the 

planning area. These cannot be tied to a point source such as a discharge pipe from a factory but are best 

controlled by good land management practices. A list of streams and water bodies on the 2004/2006 

Oregon State 303(d) List of impaired waters for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests is included in 

Appendix B-5 – (Table 23). The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has made a call for data 

for the 2008/2010 list, but it is not expected to be completed until late 2010 or early 2011.

96 streams and water bodies were listed as impaired waters on the State 303(d) List for water temperature, 

sediment, turbidity, pH, dissolved oxygen, and chlorophyll a on the two Forests and Grassland. Dissolved 

oxygen, pH and chlorophyll will not be analyzed further because the transportation system and camping 

in designated, defined, and existing dispersed sites would not result in measurable increases in these 

parameters. In addition the 30 foot non-motorized setback would keep vehicles away from streams, 

wetlands and water bodies. The other water quality parameters of water temperature, sediment and 

turbidity will be analyzed in detail under the effects section.

Water Temperature – There are 19 streams on the State 303(d) List for water temperature on the 

Deschutes National Forest, and 73 streams on the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland. Water 

temperature is an important factor which influences aquatic productivity. Temperature changes may result 

from natural climatic conditions or human manipulation of the riparian environment. Stream temperature 

is a function of flow volume, surface area, solar input, air temperature, and other variables. Aquatic biotas 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 215

are adapted to certain thermal conditions existing in the habitat for their survival and well being. It is 

known that physiological stress in fish increase as water temperatures and sediment rates increase.

No measurable increase in water temperature, resulting from management practices, is permitted in 

streams listed on the State 303(d) list of Water Quality Limited Water Bodies for water temperature. The 

state standard for salmon or trout rearing and migration is a floating 7-day maximum average of 18.0°C 

(64.4°F) and for bull trout spawning and juvenile rearing 12.0°C (53.6°F). The Confederated Tribes of 

Warm Springs standard for bull trout in Jefferson Creek and the Metolius River from the confluence of 

Jefferson Creek to Lake Billy Chinook is 10.0°C (50.0°F). 

Sediment – Suspended sediment is a measure of suspended sand, silt, clay and organic matter which will 

settle in time to the stream bottom. It may adversely affect fish by filling in pools, reducing bottom fauna, 

and silting in spawning gravels. The Deschutes River between Wickiup Reservoir and Bend on the 

Deschutes National Forest and eight streams in the Trout Creek Sub Basin on the Ochoco National Forest 

are listed for sediment. There is currently no quantitative state water quality standard for sediment in the 

Oregon DEQ water quality rules. However, OAR 340-041-0007 (12), found in the Narrative Criteria 

division of Section 41 in the Oregon Administrative Rules that states, “The formation of appreciable 

bottom or sludge deposits or the formation of any organic or inorganic deposits deleterious to fish or other 

aquatic life or injurious to public health, recreation, or industry may not be allowed.” Appreciable is not 

defined and deleterious implies slower, less irreparable injury to health than pernicious.

The streams listed for sediment in the Trout Creek Sub Basin were originally listed for embeddedness by 

the State, based on the Trout Creek Watershed Analysis (USDA Forest Service, 1995). This was derived 

from surveys conducted either while the watershed was in a cattle allotment or shortly after it was 

changed to a sheep allotment in 1989. Only a short reach on the upper east fork of Auger Creek is still in a 

cattle allotment. The portion of the Upper Trout Creek Watershed in the planning area has been in a sheep 

allotment for about 20 years. The conversion from a cattle allotment to a sheep allotment has resulted in a 

substantial reduction in channel disturbance, improved bank stability, and a reduction in sediment load. 

The Ochoco National Forest will attempt to have the eight streams removed from the 2008/2010 303(d) 

List. 

Turbidity – Turbidity is the disturbance of water due to the presence of suspended matter such as clay, 

silt, organic debris, plankton, various effluents, and others. It is an expression of the optical property of a 

sample of water which causes light to be scattered and absorbed rather than transmitted in straight lines 

through a sample. Excessive turbidity reduces light penetration into water and therefore reduces 

photosynthesis by phytoplankton, algae, and submerged vegetation. Natural turbidities within watersheds 

may cause short term readings in excess of the recommended level due to spring runoff or seasonal 

freshets. Turbidity is often used as a surrogate to indicate changes in suspended sediment. State water 

quality standards direct that turbidity levels should not exceed background levels by more than 10 

percent. The Deschutes River between Wickiup Reservoir and Bend is listed for turbidity on the 

Deschutes National Forest. 

Municipal Watersheds 

A municipal supply watershed is one that serves a public water system as defined in Public Law 93-523 

(Safe Drinking Water Act) or as defined in State safe drinking water regulations. The applicable state 

defined system is a community water system. This is a public water system that has at least 15 service 

connections used by year-round residents and regularly serves at least 25 year-round residents. There are 

two municipal watersheds on the Deschutes National Forest and one on the Ochoco National Forest. By 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

216 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

definition a municipal watershed does not include wells or confined ground water systems unaffected by 

Forest Service Activities. 

The Bend municipal watershed operates under a 1926 formal agreement between the city of Bend and the 

Secretary of Agriculture (Forest Supervisor authority now) for 2.603 cubic feet per second (cfs). The 

diversion was increased by 15 cfs in 1983. Management within the watershed has been custodial with all 

actions being subservient to maintaining water quality. The Sisters municipal watershed uses a tributary of 

Whychus Creek as an emergency backup to their primary water system. The Mitchell municipal 

watershed diverts water from springs in the Bridge Creek Watershed in the Lower John Day Sub Basin.

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Temperature

State water temperature standards for the project area are found in Oregon Water Quality Standards 340-

041-0028(4)(a), (b) and (f), based on Fish Use Maps 130A, 130B, 170A, and 170B. The state standard for 

salmon or trout rearing and migration is a floating 7-day maximum average of 18.0°C (64.4°F), for 

salmon and steelhead spawning and rearing 13.0°C (55.4°F), and for bull trout spawning and juvenile 

rearing 12.0°C (53.6°F). There are 84 streams on the state 303(d) list of Impaired Waters for water 

temperature with some being on more than one Forest or Grassland. The Oregon Department of 

Environmental Quality (DEQ) is working on the Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for these streams 

but they are not expected to be finished until after the EIS is implemented. The closest to completion are 

the Upper Deschutes, Lower John Day and Upper John Day Sub Basins which are in the data analysis and 

report writing phase. All others are still in the initial scoping and data collection phase. The Confederated 

Tribes of Warm Springs water temperature standard for bull trout on Jefferson Creek and the Metolius 

River below Jefferson Creek is 10.0°C (50.0°F) and steelhead and salmon spawning and rearing 

temperature standards round down current Oregon DEQ standards to the nearest whole degree Fahrenheit 

on the Deschutes River below Round Butte Dam. The Riparian Management Objectives (RMOs) for 

PacFish and InFish direct that there should not be any measurable increase in water temperature. The 

Riparian Management Objectives for the Northwest Forest Plan (Aquatic Conservation Strategy) say that 

water temperatures would be maintained or restored to a degree that would provide for a stable and 

productive riparian and aquatic ecosystem. Effects to fish habitat are discussed in chapter 3 under 

fisheries.

Reductions in solar input resulting from shading are a primary factor effecting stream temperature and 

could be affected by changes in dispersed recreational use. Shade functions (Beschta, et al., 1987) 

generally occur within 100-200 feet of the channel. This analysis evaluated the area within one cell width 

(about 100 feet on the Ochoco and Grassland and 30 feet on the Deschutes) of slope/erosion GIS layer 

cells (pixels) intersected by perennial streams to address potential water temperature concerns. Within this 

30-100 feet, draw bottom roads are a primary contributor of reduced shade. Since trees are removed in the 

road right-of-way when it is constructed, roads anywhere within the 100 feet may reduce shade. Off road 

travel and dispersed camping primarily tends to affect shorter vegetation (grass, forbs and shrubs) and 

disturbance needs to be much closer to affect shade. Field observations of non-highway-legal vehicle and 

dispersed camping use found that most vegetation affected was less than two feet tall with some grubbing 

or cutting of shrubs and saplings up to three or four feet observed in campsites. 

Approximately 80 percent of solar input into streams occurs between 0800 and 1600 hours during the 

period when maximum water temperatures occur on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and 

Grassland (July1 – August 15). The solar angle at 0800 and 1600 hours in Redmond, Oregon, is about 38 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 217

degrees and it is approximately 69 degrees at solar noon. The length of shade resulting from vegetation 

during this period is shown in Table 73. 

Table 73. Shade table - illustrates varying shade/shadow lengths based on height of vegetation during daylight 

hours

Vegetation Height (ft) 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 3.0 4.0

Shade Length @ Noon (ft) 0.3 0.6 0.9 1.2 1.8 2.4

Shade Length @ 8 AM and 4 PM (ft) 0.9 1.9 2.8 3.8 5.6 7.6

The direction shade comes from shifts over the day (vegetation on the east bank of a stream does not 

provide shade in the afternoon) and vegetation further from a stream can overlap shade from vegetation 

being effected by recreational activities. In addition, more than 70 percent more solar input occurs at noon 

than at 0800 or 1600 and a quarter of the solar input for the day comes between 1100 and 1300. 

Therefore, average effective shade loss would be closer to that at noon than to 0800 or 1600. 

Sediment

State water quality standards direct that turbidity levels should not exceed background levels by more 

than 10 percent. There is currently no quantitative state water quality standard for sediment. Streams on 

the state 303(d) list of Impaired Waters for Turbidity and Sediment are shown in Appendix B-5 (Table 

23). Only streams in the Trout Creek Sub Basin are listed for sediment or turbidity on the Ochoco 

National Forest and only the Deschutes River between Wickiup Reservoir and Bend is listed on the 

Deschutes National Forest. There are no 303(d) listed streams for sediment or turbidity on the Crooked 

River National Grassland. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is working on the 

Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for these streams but they are not expected to be finished until 

after the EIS is implemented. 

There is normally a close correlation between turbidity and suspended sediment in a given stream, but this 

correlation can change as organic material increases over the summer or if the percent of sediment from 

different sources in the drainage changes. Turbidity does not measure the amount of sediment being 

transported as bedload. 

The amount of sediment delivered from surface erosion and mass soil movement outside the stream 

channel is dependent on soil erosivity, the amount and type of ground disturbance, slope, and distance to 

the stream. The closer the disturbance is to the channel the higher the potential for sediment delivery. This 

analysis evaluated the area within 300 feet of streams for sediment related water quality concerns from 

cross-country travel. Since motorized access for dispersed camping ingress and egress normally do not 

cross or run directly down ephemeral draws and drainages, sediment delivery would primarily be from 

overland flow and was analyzed within 100 feet of streams. Dispersed campsites were evaluated on miles 

of stream on land with 0-20 percent slope because sediment delivery would be primarily from overland 

flow. There is less likelihood of campsites on steeper slopes, and campsites within 100 feet of streams 

normally are immediately adjacent to the stream. 

Wetlands/Riparian Vegetation

Executive Order 11990 requires agencies to avoid adverse impacts associated with the destruction or 

modification of wetlands. OHV roads/trails can dissect wetlands and can reduce riparian and wetland 

vegetation. In addition, these user created trails alter sub-flows and if flows concentrate in the wheel ruts 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

218 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

down cutting can accelerate and result in lowering of the water table and loss of wetland vegetation. 

Compaction and puddling from off road use and dispersed campsites can also contribute to loss or 

downward trends in riparian vegetation. 

Alternative 1

Temperature

Since the Forest Land and Resource Management Plans (LRMP) for the Deschutes National Forest 

(1990) and the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland (1989) were implemented 

there has been a substantial increase in dispersed camping on both the Forests and Grassland. It is 

estimated that one in five Americans over 16 years of age have participated in OHV recreation in the past 

year with about an 18 percent increase between 1999 and 2007 (USDA Forest Service 2008d). In Oregon 

the growth rate was even higher with about a 22.2 percent increase. The increase in non-highway-legal 

vehicle use has closely approximated the national growth rate. However, based on personal observation, 

in the last 5 to 10 years the growth rate of Class 1 OHV (ATVs) use in the planning area appears to have 

been much higher than this and is expanding out from high use areas. 

Cross-country travel and Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Water temperature increases from non-highway-legal vehicle trails running parallel to creeks and from 

stream crossings found in Texas (Taylor, 2006), are not as likely in this planning area due to trees and 

shrubby vegetation adjacent to creeks. OHV roads/trails and mud bogging have been observed in riparian 

zones in the planning area (see Figure 25) but the disturbance has been at least three to four feet from the 

stream and based on Table 73 would have very little effect on shading. In addition it would take about 

seven eight foot wide stream crossings per mile to reduce shade on a perennial stream by one percent and 

this is more than the amount observed on perennial streams in the planning area (see Figure 26). A one 

percent decrease in shade would not produce a measurable increase in water temperature. OHV use can 

also reduce shade on intermittent and ephemeral streams but this would not contribute to maximum 

stream temperatures which normally occur in July and August when these channels are dry. Peak 

temperatures that usually occur around the middle of August normally are the result of low flows instead 

of lack of shading. Cross-country travel would not have any measurable effect on low flows. Long term 

stream shade could also be reduced by motor vehicle use preventing the reestablishment of trees on road 

prisms not on the Forest road system such as old decommissioned roads, temporary roads and skid trails. 

While the amount is not quantifiable, it would be small and primarily along intermittent streams as an 

artifact of pre 1994 ground based logging techniques.

On the two National Forests and Grassland, cross-country travel would continue on 16,624 acres (26 mi2) 

within 100 feet of perennial streams and motorized access on 0-20 percent slopes to dispersed campsites 

on 58,188 acres (90.9 mi2) and is expected to increase at approximately the rate of growth in the tricounty area. This may result in small reductions in shade yet would not result in a measurable increase in 

water temperatures in the short-term (less than five years). However, Alternative 1 would trend towards 

non-compliance with the Clean Water Act if problems continue to get worse in the long term (greater than 

10 years).
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 219

Figure 25. User created road/trail in riparian area Figure 26. User created OHV stream crossing

Most dispersed campsites that are within areas that permit motorized access are accessed with motor 

vehicles. Dispersed campsites were inventoried and plotted on forest resource maps in the late 1980s for 

the Ochoco and Deschutes Forest Plans. Additional recreation site inventory data has been entered on the 

Deschutes resource map layer since then. The surveys were not exhaustive and many sites were not 

identified. Based on assumptions related to dispersed recreation growth discussed earlier in this chapter 

and supported by field observations, there have been substantial increases in the number of dispersed 

camping sites in the last 20 years. Summarization of this data in Table 74 gives a perspective of dispersed 

camping use on the two Forests and CRNG and its relative affect on shading on perennial streams. As can 

be seen in Table 73, the total area currently affecting shading on perennial streams outside wilderness and 

large block roadless areas such as that in the Oregon Cascades Recreation Area and Lookout Mountain 

Management Area is less than one percent.

As previously stated, vegetation under two feet tall is mostly affected at dispersed camping sites with 

some grubbing or cutting of shrubs and saplings up to three or four feet observed. Magill (1970) 

attributed trampling and tent site clearing for the decrease in tree seedlings, shrubs, forbs and grasses. 

This was aggravated by vehicles which appear to be the primary ground disturbance outside of the area 

adjacent to the fire ring on heavy use sites visited on the two Forests and Grassland. Several papers 

indicated that these impacts leveled off after a couple of years with a shift from intolerant native species 

to recreational tolerant species (Magill 1970, James et al. 1979, Merriam and Smith 1974). However, all 

vegetation except mature trees was obliterated in high use areas. Manning (1979) also reported removal of 

small stems from the shrub and sapling layer for firewood and poles and observed a top heavy distribution 

of mature trees in heavy use areas. Injury to these large trees made them more susceptible to disease and 

insect attack. Therefore dispersed camping sites initially affect vegetation that shades out three or four 

feet, but over time as mature trees die on heavily used forested sites, shading can be reduced from lack of 

tree recruitment in dispersed sites adjacent to perennial streams. Except in very heavily used sites 

(especially lakes and reservoirs), field observations noted the depaupered ground did not extend up to the 

water body and was not substantially reducing shade on perennial streams. On reservoirs, motorized 

access in the campsite tended to follow the edge of the water as it receded. In some sites such as Wickiup 

Reservoir, this has resulted in loss of the green line (vegetation associated with the normal high water 

line). While this reduced surface shade around the edge of the reservoirs, it has a negligible effect on 

reservoir water temperature due to the large volume of water. The primary effect would be to habitat and 

hiding cover.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

220 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 74. Inventoried campsites in areas open to motorized access for dispersed camping

Sub Basin District

Alt1 Alt2/Alt3

Within 100 feet 

of Perennial

Streams

Perennial

Streams

(%)a

Within 100 feet 

of Perennial

Streams

Perennial

Streams

(%)a

Deschutes NF

Upper Deschutes

BFR 38 0.5 40b 0.5

CRE 4 0.2 5b 0.3

SIS 35 0.4 101b 1.2

Lower Crooked BFR 0 0 0 0

CRE 0 0 0 0

Little Deschutes BFR 0 0 0 0

CRE 5 0.1 12 0.2

Ochoco NF

Lower John Day LOM 2 0.1 2 0.1

Upper John Day LOM 1 0.1 1 0.1

PAU 4 0.1 4 0.1

Lower Deschutes CRNG 0 0 0 0

Upper Deschutes CRNG 0 0 1c 0.2

Trout Creek CRNG 0 0 0 0

LOM 5 0.2 5 0.2

Lower Crooked CRNG 0 0 0 0

LOM 29 0.3 29 0.3

Upper Crooked LOM 25 0.2 24 0.2

PAU 22 0.6 18 0.5

Beaver/S.Fk Crooked PAU 6 0.1 6 0.1

a - As % of perennial stream miles outside wilderness and large block roadless areas assuming 100 foot frontage at each site. Alt 2 

and 3 have a 30 foot setback from streams at existing dispersed sites.

b - Surveyed motorized access dispersed campsites in emergency closure areas for public safety (such as hazard trees from fire) 

are not counted in Alt 1. Emergency closures are assumed to be lifted in Alt 2 and 3.

c - Existing motorized access dispersed campsite in currently unauthorized area would be in an area open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping under Alt 2 and 3.

Table 75 and Table 76 show miles of 303(d) temperature impaired streams and miles of perennial streams 

(including 303(d) reaches) open to motorized access for dispersed camping and their ratios to the total 

length for the two Forests and Grassland. Only areas in slope class 0-20 percent were evaluated because 

motorized access and camping on slope classes greater than 20 percent are highly improbable. 

Table 75. Alternative 1 - Miles of 303(d) streams open to motorized access for dispersed camping

Sub Basin Name

Open 

Slope < 20%

(mi.)

Closed 

Slope < 20%

(mi.)

Total 303(d)

Streams

(mi.)

Total

Open 

(%)

Deschutes NF

Little Deschutes 51 6 59 86

Lower Crooked 0 0 0 0

Upper Deschutes 82 40 134 61

Ochoco NF

Lower Crooked 32 9 59 54

Lower Deschutes 0 .4 11 0

Lower John Day 2 2 6 33

SFk. Crooked 48 7 62 77

Trout Creek 21 1 28 75

Upper Crooked 94 13 128 73

Upper Deschutes 0 5 9 0

Upper John Day 15 9 32 47
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 221

Table 76. Alternative 1 - miles of perennial streams open to motorized access for dispersed camping

Sub Basin Name

Open 

Slope < 20%

(mi.)

Closed 

Slope < 20%

(mi.)

Total Perennial

Streams outside

(mi.)

Total Open 

(%)

Deschutes NF

Little Deschutes 147 21 182 81

Lower Crooked 0 0 0 0

Upper Deschutes 220 201 471 47

Ochoco NF

Lower Crooked 124 37 222 56

Lower Deschutes 0 3 3 0

Lower John Day 27 8 52 52

SFk. Crooked 87 12 111 78

Trout Creek 29 1 39 74

Upper Crooked 248 26 315 79

Upper Deschutes 0 5 9 0

Upper John Day 84 38 164 51

Under Alternative 1, motorized access for dispersed camping could continue along more than 900 miles 

of perennial stream (or about two-thirds of the miles outside wilderness areas, the Oregon Cascades 

Recreation Area, and the Lookout Mountain Management Area) and is expected to increase at 

approximately the rate of growth in the tri-county area. This may result in small reductions in shade, but 

based on the ratio of dispersed sites to total stream length (Table 73), would normally not cause a 

measurable increase in water temperatures in the short term (<5 yrs). However, contiguous high intensity 

use sites adjacent to narrower stream channels could reduce shade over a long enough reach in the future 

(>5yrs) to produce statistically distinct and measurable changes in water temperature. Campsites along 

wider streams such as the Metolius and the Deschutes River would have a substantially smaller affect due 

to the small percentage of the water surface potentially shaded by vegetation affected by dispersed 

camping. Mitigation measures under individual NEPA decisions, usually categorical exclusions, have 

been taken when problematic areas were identified in the past (see Figure 31 - Figure 34) and while not 

associated with this proposed action, would probably be addressed in a similar manner if identified in the 

future under all alternatives. With the continued growth and expansion in the use of OHVs for recreation 

off designated roads, Alternative 1 would trend towards not meeting water quality standards for stream 

temperature.

Sediment

Cross-country travel

Research over the last 60 years has clearly shown that forest roads are a major source of sediment and soil 

erosion from forest watersheds with some studies concluding that up to 90 percent of the sediment from 

timber sales comes from roads (Grace and Clinton 2006, Cafferata and Spittler 1998, Reid and Dunne 

1984, Seyedbagheri, McHenry and Platts 1987). Class 1 and 3 OHV (ATVs and motorcycles) trails 

normally contribute less sediment than standard roads due their narrower tread but this is offset by user 

created trails through poor locations (steep slopes, draw bottoms, riparian areas), poor drainage, and 

concentration of flow due to rutting. These adverse effects are most pronounced at stream crossings, 

where trails run down intermittent stream channels, and where rutting in ephemeral stream channels 

causes channelization. 

Sediment delivery is the primary effect of OHV use on streams. These effects will be evaluated using 

open, closed and decommissioned road densities within 300 feet of streams. Road delivered sediment is 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

222 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

generated on the road surface, cut and fill slopes, and ditch lines and is transported through drainages 

(including ephemeral) to be discharged into streams, wetlands, or other water bodies. Probably less than 

10 to 15 percent of road/trail delivered sediment originates outside the 300 feet analysis buffer. OHV 

users are extensively using closed and decommissioned roads in areas that do not prohibit cross-country 

travel, and are often encouraged to do so. In the McKay Creek Watershed, in the Lower Crooked River 

Sub Basin (one of the high impact areas identified), at least three quarters of the closed and mapped 

decommissioned roads had visible OHV (primarily ATV) use and this accounted for less than half the 

non-open road use. Less than a tenth of the non-open road use was on routes without some type of preexisting track. OHV use on closed and decommissioned roads can cause rutting, which channelizes flows, 

can reduce vegetative filtering, and can reduce or eliminate the effectiveness of erosion control measures 

such as water bars. While not all closed or decommissioned roads are used by OHV users, and not all 

non-system roads, temporary roads, and user created tie-through trails are on the Forest GIS layers, closed 

and decommissioned road densities provide a perspective of current and potential future use if there is no 

change in current management direction. Motorized vehicle use of closed and decommissioned roads 

increases erosion and shifts potential sediment delivery back towards that of an open road. It is estimated 

that closing a road reduces sediment delivery by about 75 percent and decommissioning by about 95 

percent (Parker and Christensen, 1964). Roads would continue to deliver sediment over time even when 

closed or decommissioned albeit at a reduce level. 

Of the three municipal watersheds in the planning area, only the city of Bend Municipal Watershed is 

currently closed to cross-country travel. While the Forest GIS layer indicates there are no areas open for 

cross-country travel in the Sisters Municipal Watershed within 300 feet of streams, field observations 

indicate there is currently a light to moderate amount of non-highway-legal vehicle use in the drainage 

(personal communication with Nate Dachtler, Sisters District Fisheries Biologist). There is some nonhighway-legal vehicle use in the Mitchell Municipal Watershed but it is light and mainly on old closed 

roads (based on personal observations). There are currently 110 acres available for cross-country travel in 

the Mitchell Municipal Watershed. Water for the Mitchell water supply is diverted from springs which are 

some distance from existing dispersed camping sites located along FS Road 2630450. Both the Sisters 

and Mitchell Municipal Watersheds allow motorized access for dispersed camping. The city of Sisters 

currently uses groundwater from wells for domestic purposes and only maintains facilities in the surface 

water municipal watershed as an emergency backup. The municipal watershed has not been used for 

drinking water for several years.

Within the 300 feet being analyzed, draw bottom roads/motorized trails and stream crossings are two of 

the primary contributors of sedimentation (see Figure 27 - Figure 29). In addition, draw bottom roads 

contribute to losses of in-channel and future Large Woody Material recruitment and disrupt streamside 

water tables. Ricker et al. (2008) found that non-highway-legal vehicle crossings played a major role in 

sediment delivery in forested areas and actually represented the majority of sediment flux in one drainage 

while Ayala et al. (2005) concluded that OHV roads/trails played a major role in overall sediment delivery 

at the subwatershed level. Forest Service GIS layers indicate that within the planning area, there are about 

796 miles of open road within 300 feet of streams and there are an additional 422 miles of inactivated 

(closed) road and 250 miles of decommissioned roads. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 223

Figure 27. Stream crossing at dispersed site Figure 28. User-created stream crossing

Figure 29. User created road/trail in wet area

Motorized Access to Dispersed Campsites 

People using motorized vehicles to access dispersed camp sites try to get off open roads to get away from 

dust and noise and for seclusion. To evaluate the potential sediment delivery to the adjacent stream from 

the access road, the FS WEPP (Water Erosion Prediction Project) sediment yield model was run for three 

generalized sites: Wickiup Reservoir (21.42 inches precipitation/yr) on sandy loam soils – “Des” and 

Mitchell (15.38 inches precipitation/yr) on silty-loam soils – “Och1” and on loamy soils – “Och2”. These 

are representative of most of the soils across both Forests and the Grassland. The access roads were 

assumed to be eight feet wide, on 5-10 percent slopes, with ruts on native surface, with a three foot 

vegetative buffer on a three percent slope adjacent to the stream. Road lengths evaluated ranged from 50 

to 200 feet because personal observations (of the hydrologist) on the Ochoco National Forest found that 

50 feet from the road was about the minimum distance used and 200 feet represented about the maximum 

distance observed on access roads without a slope break.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

224 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 30. Access road delivered sediment without 30 foot setback

The sediment delivery projected by the FS WEPP model is probably overestimated for most sites because 

of selected road condition and because the model assumes the road is at a constant grade (this is 

especially true on the longer access road lengths). However, it does show access roads can deliver 

sediment when there is limited filtering between the road and a stream or other water body. This can lead 

to increased fines in channel substrate with affects being most pronounced if the access route fords a 

stream. The volume weight for a cubic foot of soil on the two Forests generally ranges between 80 pounds 

(silty clay loam) and 110 pounds (loamy sands). 

Recreational use at dispersed campsites can reduce vegetative ground cover and increase soil compaction 

thereby, decreasing filtering and increasing surface erosion and runoff. Trampling crushes, breaks, and 

bruises stems, leaves, and flower stalks at campsites and can cause the loss of up to 45 percent of ground 

cover in the first year (Manning, 1979). Trampling, clearing for campsite expansion, and removal for 

firewood and poles also causes a decline in the number of tree seedlings and shrubs (Manning 1979, 

Magill 1970, James et al. 1979). This trampling causes a change from recreational intolerant natural 

vegetation to recreation tolerant species. There is also a rapid increase in soil compaction and decrease in 

infiltration rates. Lutz (1945) found that a trampled sandy soil on a forested picnic area was only onesixth as permeable as it was in an undisturbed area while a sandy loam soil was only one-twentieth as 

permeable. Impacts from recreational users appear to level off after about two years (Merrian and Smith 

1974, Manning 1979). The rapid occurrence of soil compaction and ground cover deterioration, even 

under light use, indicates bare and disturbed ground is inevitable and is accelerated by vehicles. Vehicle 

use was also a major contributor to the progressive expansion of dispersed sites over time. The area 

currently available for motorized access for dispersed camping on 0-20 percent slope class is shown in 

Table 75 for sediment impaired 303(d) listed streams and for the entire planning area in Table 76. 

Camping on slope classes greater than 20 percent is highly improbable.

Figure 31 and Figure 33 depict heavy use dispersed campsites with associated motorized access impacts. 

If dispersed camping adjacent to streams is retarding or preventing the attainment of Riparian 

Management Objectives (RMOs) the standards and guidelines in PACFISH, INFISH, and the Aquatic 

Conservation Strategy (ACS) direct that recreation practices be adjusted by such means as use limitations, 

traffic control devices, relocation of facilities, and site specific closures. Figure 31 through Figure 34

depict heavy use dispersed campsites with associated motorized access impacts before and after traffic 

control structure placement. 

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

50 75 100 125 150 175 200

Access Road Length (ft)

Sediment Dleivery (lbs/yr)

Des 5%

Des 10%

Och1 5%

Och1 10%

Och2 5%

Och2 10%
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 225

With continued growth and expansion in the use of OHVs for recreation off designated roads, Alternative 

1 would trend towards not meeting water quality standards for sediment and turbidity. 

There are currently 29 acres available for motorized access for dispersed camping in the Mitchell 

Municipal Watershed and 181 acres in the Sisters Municipal Watershed. 

Figure 31. Dispersed site before traffic control 

measures

Figure 32. Dispersed site after traffic control 

measures

Figure 33. Before- looking at dispersed site Figure 34. After- looking at dispersed site

Wetlands/Riparian Vegetation

There are approximately 18,848 acres of wetlands identified on the Deschutes National Forest and 8,177 

acres on the Ochoco National Forest outside wilderness areas, the Oregon Cascades Recreation Area, and 

the Lookout Mountain Management Area. Road/motorized trail delivered sediment is transported through 

drainages (including ephemeral) to affected wetlands. Table 86, displayed later in this section, shows the 

area within 300 feet of wetlands open to cross-country travel where at least 85 to 90 percent of road 

delivered sediment originates. Since motorized access for dispersed camping ingress and egress normally 

do not cross or run directly down ephemeral draws and drainages, sediment delivery for dispersed 

camping and access/egress to the site would primarily be from overland flow and was analyzed within 

100 feet of streams.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

226 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Under Alternative 1, impacts to riparian areas and wetlands would continue and are expected to increase, 

resulting in:

• Increased number of user created trails within wetlands, wet meadows, and other riparian areas, 

causing increased compaction, loss of vegetation, and increased disturbed areas (see Figure 36).

• Wetland recovery would be slow or continue to deteriorate.

• Riparian vegetation would continue in a downward trend due to compaction and mud bogging (see 

Figure 35) 

• Sediment deposition in wetlands and streams

With these expected outcomes, Alternative 1 is expected to trend towards not meeting water quality

standards for sediment and turbidity.

Figure 35. Mud bogging in wet meadow Figure 36. User created trail across wetland

Alternatives 2 and 3

Temperature

Cross-country travel

Beschta, et al. (1987) found that shade generally occurs within 100-200 feet of a stream channel. 

Recovery of lost shade resulting from prohibiting cross-country travel would primarily be at stream 

crossings but Alternatives 2 and 3 would also allow the reestablishment of trees on decommissioned roads 

and old temporary roads and skid trails adjacent to streams. While most of the potential for shade increase 

occurs within 4 feet of the stream, large trees can provide shade within 100 feet of the channel. Within 

100 feet of fish bearing and perennial non-fish bearing streams (Class I-III), these alternatives would 

prohibit cross-country travel on approximately 2,720 acres (4.3 mi2) on the Deschutes National Forest and 

13,904 acres (21.7 mi2) on the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland in areas that are currently open. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would beneficially increase shading on fish bearing and non-fish bearing streams 

(Class I-III) over time on the two National Forests and Grassland (Table 77).
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 227

Table 77. Stream class definitions

Class Definition

Class I

Perennial or intermittent flow with high density/number of spawning, rearing and/or migrating fish; or if no 

fish present, then provides a potable water source for existing residence on private land or Forest 

facilities; or flows enough water to be a major contributor to the quality of water in a downstream reach 

that meets the previously mentioned criteria.

Class II

Perennial or intermittent flow with moderate densities/numbers of spawning, rearing and/or migrating 

fish; or flows enough water to be a moderate contributor to the quantity of water to a downstream Class I 

reach, or a major contributor of water to a downstream reach that meets the previously mentioned 

criteria for a Class II.

Class III All other perennial streams or segments thereof that do not meet higher criteria. If fish are observed in a 

Class III, it needs to be changed to a Class II.

Class IV All other streams or segments thereof that do not meet higher criteria. These are typically intermittent 

streams without the presence of fish.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

As with cross-country travel, most of the potential for shade increases occurs within 100 feet of fish 

bearing and perennial non-fish bearing streams. The area open to motorized access for dispersed camping 

within 100 feet of streams will be used to evaluate the difference in potential stream shading between 

Alternative 1 and Alternatives 2 and 3. In addition, the difference in potential shading at stream side 

campsites will be evaluated by comparing the miles of stream with terraces in the 0-20 percent slope band 

open for motorized access for dispersed camping between Alternative 1 and Alternatives 2 and 3. 

Within 100 feet of Class I-III streams, motorized access for dispersed camping on the Deschutes NF 

would be closed on approximately 12,727 acres (19.9 mi2). Alternatives 2 and 3 would implement riparian 

Special Provisions for motorized access for dispersed camping on the remaining 6,650 acres (10.4 mi2) 

that remain open to motorized access for dispersed camping within 100 feet of a Class I-III stream which 

limit motorized access for dispersed camping to existing, designated or defined sites within 300 feet of 

streams from designated open roads with a 30 foot vehicle setback from streams at existing sites. On the 

Ochoco NF and Grassland, motorized access to dispersed campsites would be closed on 25,765 acres 

(40.3 mi2) within 100 feet of Class I-III streams where it is currently open, and would implement riparian 

Special Provisions for motorized access for dispersed camping on 13,046 acres (20.4 mi2) remaining 

open. The Special Provisions for motorized access for dispersed camping would have a beneficial effect, 

as it would reduce expansion rates on existing dispersed sites and allow reestablishment of vegetation on 

portions of existing dispersed sites. 

Table 78 indicates that about 203 miles (59 percent) of temperature impaired 303(d) streams that are 

currently open to motorized access for dispersed camping would be closed in Alternatives 2 and 3. 

Altogether, there would be a reduction of about 633 miles (66 percent) of fish bearing and perennial nonfish bearing streams open for motorized access for dispersed camping on the two Forests and Grassland 

(Table 78).

The reduction of approximately 60 percent of stream miles currently open for motorized access for 

dispersed camping within 100 feet of fish bearing and perennial non-fish bearing streams, only allowing 

motorized access to designated, defined, or existing dispersed campsites within 300 feet of streams, and 

the 30 foot setback provision from streams at existing sites would prevent the expansion and increase of 

campsites adjacent to perennial streams from growing to a threshold where continuity might reduce shade

enough to produce measurable changes in water temperatures. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

228 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 78. 303(d) streams open to motorized access for dispersed camping

Sub Basin Name

Open Motorized

Alt 1

(mi.)

Open Motorized

Alt2/3

(mi.)

Change

Open Motorized

(%)

Deschutes NF

Little Deschutes 51 5 -90.2%

Lower Crooked 0 0 0%

Upper Deschutes 82 36 -56.1%

Ochoco NF

Lower Crooked 32 25 -21.9%

Lower Deschutes 0 0 0%

Lower John Day 2 1 -50.0%

SFk. Crooked 48 17 -64.6%

Trout Creek 21 7 -66.7%

Upper Crooked 94 46 -51.1%

Upper Deschutes 0 0.2a >+100%

Upper John Day 15 5 -66.7%

a - Area open to motorized access for dispersed camping would increase due to proposed changes on Crooked River National 

Grassland

Dispersed camping within riparian Special Provision areas (Table 78) is expected to be limited to the area 

within the Special Provision 30 foot vehicle setback from streams at existing dispersed sites with a 

projected decrease in size of dispersed camping sites from 0.17 acres (100 feet x 75 feet) to 0.11 acres 

(100 feet x 50 feet). Vegetative recovery in moist riparian zones would be more rapid than in the uplands 

and dry terraces due to higher moisture regimes but only partial recovery is expected due to continued 

trampling, fire circles, and tent placement (the riparian Special Provision only applies to motorized access 

for dispersed camping). Measurable increases in stream shade would be expected to take decades. 

Assumed vegetative recovery rates for denuded upland sites and dry terraces are included in the Natural 

Resources Recovery rates in the Analysis Assumptions section at the beginning of Chapter 3.

Increases in shade from limiting OHV use to access dispersed campsites and designated trails/play areas 

has a very low potential to increase stream shading and would not be measurable. Increased shading 

resulting from limiting motorized access within 30 feet of streams at existing dispersed campsites has the 

potential to produce a measurable increase in stream shading in 10 to 20 years but due to the small area 

affected (see Table 73) and distribution of sites would not result in measurable changes in water 

temperature. Increases in shading are expected to affect less than one percent of perennial stream miles. 

Implementation of these alternatives would not likely result in a measurable change in water temperature 

as a result of prohibiting cross-country travel or changing the condition of motorized access dispersed 

campsites adjacent to streams. However, Alternatives 2 and 3 would trend more towards compliance with 

the Clean Water Act and water quality standards for water temperature than Alternative 1.

Sediment

Cross-country travel

OHV road/trail delivered sediment is transported through drainages (including ephemeral) as well as 

through overland flow and normally originates within 300 feet of the stream channel. Probably less than 

10-15 percent of delivered sediment originates outside the 300 feet analysis buffer. The area open to 

cross-country travel and the closed and decommissioned road densities within 300 feet of streams will be 

evaluated to compare the change in risk of sediment delivery between Alternative 1 and Alternatives 2 

and 3. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 229

Within 300 feet of perennial and intermittent streams (Class I-IV), Alternatives 2 and 3 would prohibit 

cross-country travel on approximately 21,649 acres (38.9 mi2) that are currently open on the Deschutes 

National Forest and 98,214 acres (153.5 mi2) on the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland. Changes to 

cross-country travel within 300 feet of Class I-IV streams from current condition are shown in Table 80

and those to sediment impaired 303(d) listed streams in Table 79. Changes to cross-country travel in 

Municipal Watersheds are shown in Table 81. 

Table 79. Cross-country access within 300 feet of 303(d) streams

Sub Basin Name Alt1 Alt2/Alt3

Open (ac) Closed (ac) Open (ac) Closed (ac)

Trout Creek 1,974 66 0 2,040

Upper Deschutesa 0 2,358 0 2,358

a - Includes only watersheds between Wickiup Reservoir and the City of Bend

Table 80. Cross-country access within 300 feet of streams

Sub Basin Name Alt1 Alt2/Alt3

Open (ac) Closed (ac) Open (ac) Closed (ac)

Deschutes NF

Little Deschutes 7,050 12,353 0 19,403

Lower Crooked 0 0 0 0

Upper Deschutes 14,644 64,597 0 79,241

Ochoco NF/CRNG

Lower Crooked 17,613 20,440 0 38,053

Lower Deschutes 0 8,686 0 8,686

Lower John Day 4,858 2,252 0 7,110

S. Fork Crooked 19,027 1,427 0 20,454

Trout Creek 5,457 3,949 0 9,406

Upper Crooked 35,921 17,147 0 53,068

Upper Deschutes 0 4,696 0 4,696

Upper John Day 15,338 8,387 0 23,665

Table 81. Cross-country travel within 300 feet of streams in municipal watersheds

Municipal

Watershed

Alt1 Alt2/Alt3

Open (ac) Closed (ac) Open (ac) Closed (ac)

Mitchell 110 213 0 323

Bend 0 436 0 436

Sisters 0 654 0 654

Prohibiting cross-country travel would allow sediment delivery from closed roads and decommissioned 

system, temporary logging roads, and user created motorized trails, currently being used by OHVs, to 

recover toward the 75 percent reduction in sediment delivery for closed roads and 95 percent reduction 

for decommissioned projected by Parker and Christensen (1964). Christenson indicated this would 

substantially reduce erosion, but would not return it back to natural background levels. While non-system 

roads, temporary roads, and user created tie-through trails in the areas open to cross-country travel in 

Alternative 1 and shown in Table 79 and Table 80 are not on the Forest GIS layers, and while not all 

closed roads are getting OHV use, Table 82 gives a perspective of possible reductions in sediment 

delivery based on potential use of up to three quarters of closed and mapped decommissioned roads 

(based on personal observations in the McKay Creek Watershed) under current management direction and 

with projected increases in recreational use. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

230 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 82. National Forest Transportation System road densities within 300 feet of streams 

Sub Basin Open Closed/Decommissioneda

Ochoco NF

Lower John Day 2.80 mi/mi2 2.49 mi/mi2

26 miles 23 miles

Upper John Day 1.92 mi/mi2 2.75 mi/mi2

51 miles 73 miles

Lower Deschutes 3.43 mi/mi2 0.28 mi/mi2

47 miles 4 miles

Upper Deschutes 1.55 mi/mi2 0.51 mi/mi2

11 miles 4 miles

Trout Creek 3.43 mi/mi2 2.40 mi/mi2

50 miles 35 miles

Lower Crooked River 2.88 mi/mi2 1.98 mi/mi2

149 miles 103 miles

Upper Crooked River 3.77 mi/mi2 2.62 mi/mi2

305 miles 212 miles

Beaver/SFk Crooked 2.25 mi/mi2 3.64 mi/mi2

72 miles 116 miles

Deschutes NF

Upper Deschutes 2.68 mi/mi2 0.89 mi/mi2

330 miles 109 miles

Little Deschutes 1.76 mi/mi2 0.36 mi/mi2

44 miles 9 miles

Lower Crooked River 0 mi/mi2 0 mi/mi2

0 miles 0 miles

Summer Lake 0 mi/mi2 0 mi/mi2

0 miles 0 miles

Williamson 0 mi/mi2 0 mi/mi2

0 miles 0 miles

a - Though closed or decommissioned these areas are currently or potentially being used.

In high use areas where OHV roads/trails may exceed open road densities, the decrease in sediment 

delivery may be substantial (Ricker et al. 2008 and Ayala et al. 2005). The highest reductions in sediment 

load would occur at stream crossings and from trails running down intermittent and ephemeral draws. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would trend towards compliance with the Clean Water Act and water quality

standards pertaining to sediment and turbidity.

Motorized Access Dispersed Recreation 

Since motorized access for ingress and egress to dispersed campsites normally doesn’t run down 

ephemeral draws and drainages, sediment delivery would primarily be from overland flow. The area open 

to motorized access to dispersed recreation sites within 100 feet of streams will be used to evaluate the 

change in risk for sediment delivery between Alternative 1 and Alternatives 2 and 3. The change in miles 

of stream terrace open for motorized access dispersed camping, in the 0-20 percent slope band, will be 

used to evaluate the change in risk of sediment delivery from overland flow from the actual campsite 

between Alternative 1 and Alternatives 2 and 3. 

Within 100 feet of perennial and intermittent streams, motorized access dispersed recreation on the 

Deschutes National Forest would be reduced by 12,727 acres (64 percent) and by 25,765 acres (66 

percent) on the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland. Approximately 6,650 acres (10.4 mi2) and 13,046 

acres (20.4 mi2) would remain open for motorized access with special riparian provisions on the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, respectively. Changes to motorized access to dispersed camping 

sites within 100 feet of streams are shown in Table 84 and those to sediment impaired 303(d) listed 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 231

streams in Table 83. Changes to motorized access for dispersed camping within Municipal Watersheds are 

shown in Table 85. 

Table 83. Motorized access for dispersed camping within 100 feet of 303(d) streams

Sub Basin Name

Alt1 Alt2/Alt3

Open Closed Open Closed

(ac) (ac) (ac) Change (ac)

Trout Creek 709 25 205 -71.1% 531

Upper Deschutesa 905 409 796 -12.0% 518

a - Includes only watersheds between Wickiup Reservoir and Bend

Table 84. Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping Within 100 feet of Streams

Sub Basin Name

Alt1 Alt2/Alt3

Open Closed Open Closed

(ac) (ac) (ac) Change (ac)

Deschutes NF

Little Deschutes 5475 1312 683 -87.5% 6103

Lower Crooked 0 0 0 0% 0

Upper Deschutes 13902 14348 5967 -57.1% 22275

Ochoco NF/CRNG

Lower Crooked 7699 5124 2759 -64.2% 10064

Lower Deschutes 0 2913 792a >+100% 2117

Lower John Day 1822 564 451 -75.2% 1937

S Fk. Crooked 6486 365 1511 -76.7% 5337

Trout Creek 1833 1324 978 -46.6% 2174

Upper Crooked 15736 2115 5441 -65.4% 12398

Upper Deschutes 0 1584 2121 >+100% 1370

Upper John Day 5235 9649 902 -82.8% 6988

a - Area open to motorized access for dispersed camping would increase due to proposed changes on Crooked River National 

Grassland

On the Deschutes National Forest, the Municipal Watershed for the city of Bend would remain closed to 

motorized access for dispersed camping. The area open to motorized access for dispersed camping in the 

Sisters Municipal Watershed within 100 feet of streams would be reduced by 111 acres to 70 acres (61.3 

percent) and that in the Mitchell Municipal Watershed (Ochoco National Forest) by 22 acres to 7 acres 

(75.9 percent). Since the water in the Mitchell Municipal Watershed is diverted from springs and most of 

the source area is in the Bridge Creek Wilderness, the reduction in acres would have a minimal impact on 

water quality. Sisters currently uses groundwater from wells closer to the city for domestic purposes and 

only maintains facilities in the municipal watershed as an emergency backup. The surface water 

municipal watershed has not been used for drinking water for several years. Depending on where the area 

open for motorized access for dispersed camping is in relation to the diversion and connectivity, 

motorized access dispersed camping may result in some sediment delivery at the diversion if Sisters needs 

to use the water system in the future.

Table 85. Motorized access for dispersed camping within 100 feet of streams in municipal watersheds

Municipal

Watershed

Alt1 Alt2/Alt3

Open Closed Open Closed

(ac) (ac) (ac) Change (ac)

Mitchell 29 70 7 -75.9% 92

Bend 0 147 0 0% 147

Sisters 181 36 70 -61.3% 148
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

232 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

The reduction of approximately 70 percent of the area currently open for motorized access to dispersed 

camping sites within 100 feet of perennial and intermittent streams and only allowing motorized access to 

designated, defined, or existing dispersed campsites would prevent the expansion and increase of 

campsites adjacent to streams. 

Decreases in sediment delivery from Alternative 1 at dispersed campsites would primarily result from the 

30 foot vehicle setback from streams at existing dispersed sites with a projected decrease in the size of 

dispersed camping sites from 0.17 acres (100 feet x 75 feet) to 0.11 acres (100 feet x 50 feet) and from not 

developing new dispersed sites close to streams. Pulling vehicles back 30 feet from streams would reduce 

ground disturbance within the highest overland flow sediment delivery zone. This could increase ground 

disturbance in the relocated parking/vehicle camping area (campers and trailers) but the additional 

setback would result in additional settling, filtering, and infiltration before sediment could reach the water 

and would deliver less sediment than if vehicles were allowed to continue parking right up to the waters’ 

edge. Vegetative recovery in riparian zones would be more rapid than in the uplands due to higher

moisture regimes but only partial recovery is expected due to continued trampling, fire circles, and tent 

placement (the riparian Special Provision 30 foot setback at existing dispersed sites would also apply to 

campers and tent trailers). 

Implementation of Alternatives 2 and 3 would reduce the sediment load in perennial and intermittent 

streams (Class I-IV) on the two National Forests and Grassland. They would also result in decreases in 

turbidity and sediment delivery primarily during and shortly after runoff events, due to decreases in 

road/motorized trail delivered sediment, decreased disturbed and bare ground within 30 feet of streams at 

existing dispersed sites, and increased vegetative filtering at existing dispersed camp sites. Differences 

would be hard to quantify due to the scattered nature of the disturbance, connectivity of streams to the 

disturbance, and the timing and magnitude of runoff events. However based on personal observations of 

the Hydrologist on heavily used OHV areas on the Ochoco National Forest, and studies by Ricker et al. 

(2008) and Ayalaet al. (2005), decreases in sediment delivery could be substantive in localized drainages. 

Decreases in sediment delivery to streams would primarily result from prohibiting cross-country travel 

except for ingress and egress from dispersed camping sites. Alternatives 2 and 3 would trend towards 

compliance with the Clean Water Act and all water quality standards including sediment and turbidity.

Wetlands/Riparian Vegetation

Alternatives 2 and 3 would continue to allow motorized use on all currently open roads on both Forests. 

Non-highway-legal vehicles would be restricted to mixed use open roads (primarily 7 digit local roads 

and designated 4 digit collector roads), designated motorized trails, and designated play areas (primarily 

rock and gravel pits). As with streams, most sediment delivery would originate within 300 feet of 

wetlands and direct impacts to wetlands from roads/trails and mud bogging would occur within this 

buffer. Reductions in the area open to cross-country travel from Alternative 1 are shown in Table 86. 

Table 86. Cross-country access within 300 feet of wetlands

Sub Basin Name Alt1 Alt2/Alt3

Open (ac) Closed (ac) Open (ac) Closed (ac)

Deschutes NF

Little Deschutes 5815 8380 0 14195

Lower Crooked 0 0 0 0

Upper Deschutes 2430 20211 0 22641

Ochoco NF/CRNG

Lower Crooked 1452 2703 0 4155

Lower Deschutes 0 188 0 188

Lower John Day 1096 407 0 1503
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 233

Sub Basin Name Alt1 Alt2/Alt3

Open (ac) Closed (ac) Open (ac) Closed (ac)

SFk. Crooked 151 54 0 205

Trout Creek 68 24 0 92

Upper Crooked 4490 3610 0 8100

Upper Deschutes 0 52 0 52

Upper John Day 2517 821 0 3338

These alternatives would also continue to allow motorized access within 300 feet of most open roads for 

dispersed camping. However motorized access would only be allowed for ingress and egress to campsites. 

Within 300 feet of wetlands, they would limit motorized access to only existing, designated, or defined 

sites, and would not allow motorized access closer than 30 feet to the wetlands at existing dispersed sites. 

Most direct and indirect impacts associated with dispersed campsites and access would result from 

activities within 100 feet of the wetland. Within these 100 feet, motorized access to dispersed camp sites 

on the Deschutes National Forest would be reduced by 16,425 acres (81 percent) and by 6,025 acres (68 

percent) on the Ochoco National Forest. Approximately 3,869 acres (6.0 mi2) and 2,828 acres (4.4 mi2) 

would remain open for motorized access with special riparian provisions on the Deschutes, and Ochoco, 

respectively (see Table 87).

Table 87. Motorized access for dispersed camping within 100 feet of wetlands

Sub Basin Name

Alt1 Alt2/Alt3

Open Closed Open Closed

(ac) (ac) (ac) Change (ac)

Deschutes NF

Little Deschutes 11,113 1,554 1,456 -86.9% 11,211

Lower Crooked 0 0 0 0% 0

Upper Deschutes 9,181 9,812 2,413 -73.7% 16,580

Ochoco NF/CRNG

Lower Crooked 1,855 985 847 -54.3% 1,996

Lower Deschutes 0 172 24 > +100% 149

Lower John Day 835 148 217 -74.6% 766

SFk. Crooked 105 42 13 -87.6% 135

Trout Creek 43 27 11 -74.4% 59

Upper Crooked 4,222 1,684 1,403 -66.8% 4,508

Upper Deschutes 0 35 10 > +100% 25

Upper John Day 1,793 473 303 -83.1% 1,964

Restrictions on motorized access for dispersed camping in these alternatives would substantially reduce 

recreation-associated impacts to wetlands. Most campers set their campsites on dry ground. However, 

many of the wetlands on the two Forests are only seasonally saturated and are dry in the late summer or in 

the fall during hunting season. Compaction, vegetation shifts to more use tolerant species, and bare 

ground associated with access and the camp site would probably persist in these seasonally dry areas. In 

areas where the public can readily identify the wetland, implementation of the 30 foot vehicle setback at 

existing dispersed sites would allow for riparian vegetation recovery. 

With implementation of Alternative 2 or 3, wetlands currently adversely impacted by motorized use 

would be expected to recover over time. That being said, wetland function at most sites would not be 

expected to fully recover and some level of erosion and sediment delivery would persist, but recovery 

rates would be higher than upland sites due to greater vegetative productivity and associated 

biopedoturbation from worms, insects, and other fauna. From observations of measures taken to restore 

severely impacted wetlands resulting from OHV use on the Ochoco National Forest, vegetation recovery 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

234 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

would be fairly rapid. However subsurface flow and wetland drainage due to puddling (severe rutting) 

would take longer to recover and may continue in a downward trend without mechanical treatment. The 

level of sediment delivery would be small under these alternatives and restrictions on OHV operation 

within wetlands would trend towards compliance with the Clean Water Act and water quality standards 

pertaining to sediment and turbidity.

Geology and Minerals

Executive Summary

This section summarizes the analysis of the effects on important geological attributes within the analysis

area that could be affected by the proposed action.

There is no appreciable difference of potential effects for geology and minerals between Alternatives 2 

and 3 for the Forests and Grassland. 

For locatable minerals and rockhounding under permit, the proposed action would not change use of the 

mining claims. Access would still be granted through the plan of operations, if the activity requires 

motorized access off designated routes. 

For leasable minerals, there would be no change in operations with this proposed action for either the 

Deschutes National Forest or the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland. Some lease areas currently 

prohibit public motorized access.

For saleable minerals, if the source is not currently closed to the public, then Alternatives 2 and 3 would 

affect access by the public to use the sources for other activities, following the proposed closures.

In Alternatives 2 and 3, the proposed 30 foot setback for motorized access for dispersed camping for 

protection of wetlands, seeps, springs and stream edges would have a beneficial effect by allowing 

vegetation recovery, which would increase evapotranspiration, thereby increasing slope stability for those 

dispersed campsites with motorized access on dormant landslide terrain and adjacent to streams. 

Maintaining the minimum 30 foot buffer from the wetland edge for motorized access for dispersed 

camping would also beneficially reduce the potential risk for groundwater contamination. Alternatives 2 

and 3, over the no-action alternative, would provide greater protection for both forests by restricting 

camping to defined, designated and existing sites and enforcement of the 30 foot buffer from wetlands, 

seeps, springs and stream edges to motorized access for dispersed campsites. 

Affected Environment

This section characterizes the important geological attributes within the analysis area that could be 

affected by the proposed action. These include dormant and active landslide terrain, including those close 

to 303(d) listed streams; geologic faults that may be coincident with motorized access to dispersed 

camping; surface/groundwater connections through permeable rocks; and leasable, locatable and salable 

minerals. 

The Deschutes National Forest, the Ochoco National Forest and the Crooked River National Grassland 

are primarily underlain by volcanic materials with varying levels of permeability. The Ochoco National 

Forest has a fair amount of dormant and active landslide terrain, while the Deschutes has a minor amount. 

The Deschutes has a large amount of very permeable rock with the potential for groundwater 

contamination across the uplands and wetlands. The mineral material sources identified in the proposed 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 235

action to be designated open to cross-country travel for both Forests and the Grassland are all actively 

used for mineral extraction. 

This report analyzed 1,613,026 acres on the Deschutes National Forest, 613,847 acres on the Ochoco 

National Forest, and 112,048 acres on the Crooked River National Grassland. The volcanic material 

underlying the two Forests and Grassland are a variety of ages (Walker and MacLeod, 1991) (Appendix 

B-6 Geology). The older volcanic terrain (40 Ma (Million Years) to 17 Ma), underlying the Ochoco 

National Forest, is composed of basalts, rhyolites and andesites, weathering to clays. Water does not tend 

to infiltrate easily in the clays, resulting in low permeability (Gonthier, 1985). The younger volcanic units 

(less than 17 Ma) underlying the Crooked River National Grassland and Deschutes National Forest 

exhibit more porous characteristics, allowing more surface/groundwater flow connections (Lite and 

Gannett, 2002). The younger lithology on the Deschutes National Forest is dominated by thick blankets of 

cinder, pumice and very open fractured basalt flows which easily pass surface water to ground water. The 

crest of the Cascades experienced alpine glaciation which deposited thick blankets of moderate to highly 

permeable glacial gravels. 

The Deschutes National Forest has experienced significant glacial events, the most recent 20,000 years 

ago, eroding the large volcanoes and depositing blankets of glacial till along the toe slopes of the 

Cascades. These glacial gravels are sensitive to disturbance and permeable, connecting surface water and 

groundwater. The Ochoco Mountains were not glaciated, although the area did experience periglacial 

effects. 

Mount Mazama ashfall can be found on the northern slopes across the Ochoco Mountains and southern 

Deschutes River basin. The ash was deposited approximately 7,700 years ago, following the eruption of 

Mount Mazama, subsequently reworked by wind and water. The ash capping the Ochoco Mountains is 

weathering to clay. The axis of the ashfall runs from Crater Lake (Mount Mazama) to Lewiston, Idaho 

(Walker and MacLeod, 1991). The 1.5 feet of sand-sized ash has mixed with the developing soils, 

creating more erosive soils. These soils provide the majority of the natural stream sediment due to 

processes like sheet and rill erosion. Ashfall has collected in the draws in the Ochoco Mountains, 

increasing the fertility of the drainages and allowing development of the tree/shrub component of the 

vegetation in an otherwise thin soil, bedrock dominated terrain. 

In addition to ash from Mount Mazama, the Deschutes National Forest and Crooked River National 

Grassland received a variety of more recent ashfall from different vents (Newberry volcano and others) 

that have deposited coarser pumice, which has a different character. On the lower east slope flanks of the 

Cascades and across the highlands, containing Newberry volcano, coarse ash/pumice fragments, primarily 

from Mount Mazama and Newberry volcano, carpet the older terrain to depths of three to six feet. The 

coarser porous pumice blanket covers the older terrain upon which drainage had developed. 

There is little surface water exposed on the south to southeast end of the Deschutes National Forest 

because of the pumice blanket. However, the pumice breaks down and is easily disturbed, forming large 

volumes of dust. The unconfined pumice aquifer is permeable, connecting the surface water to 

groundwater. 

The inherent weathering characteristics of the rock speak to the durability over time. The higher 

resistance to chemical and mechanical weathering processes indicates bedrock that breaks down into 

coarse rock fragments, boulders, gravels. The intermediate range exhibits breakdown products of the 

boulders, gravel, sand and silt size with clays. The lithology highly susceptible to weathering processes 

are those units that are already unconsolidated mixtures of sand; silt; gravel; and clays which are easily 

dislodged and transported either by wind, water or mechanical means (earthquakes, landslides or human 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

236 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

interaction). Unconsolidated rock units like glacial till, landslide terrain, alluvium and pumice blankets, 

by nature, are already finer particles which have more surface area exposed to percolating waters. 

On the Deschutes National Forest, 59 percent of the underlying formations within the analysis area are 

predominantly resistant to chemical and mechanical weathering processes, 0.7 percent have an 

intermediate susceptibility to chemical and mechanical weathering processes and 38.6 percent are highly 

susceptible to mechanical and chemical weathering processes (Appendix B-6 Geology) with 1.7 percent 

of the area under water. 

On the Ochoco National Forest, 58 percent of the underlying formations within the analysis area are 

predominantly resistant to chemical and mechanical weathering processes, 36 percent have an 

intermediate susceptibility to chemical and mechanical weathering processes and 6 percent are highly 

susceptible to mechanical and chemical weathering processes with less than 0.04 percent under water. 

On the Crooked River National Grassland, 30 percent of the underlying formations within the analysis 

area are predominantly resistant to chemical and mechanical weathering processes, 66 percent have an 

intermediate susceptibility to chemical and mechanical weathering processes and 4 percent are highly 

susceptible to mechanical and chemical weathering processes with less than 0.4 percent under water.

In general, the Central Oregon area volcanic rocks are durable with a range of 30-59 percent being 

relatively resistant to chemical and mechanical weathering processes. The Deschutes National Forest 

tends to have more lithologic units highly susceptible to chemical and mechanical weathering, followed 

by the Ochoco National Forest, then the Grassland. 

Faults and Landslides

In Central Oregon, the development of the scenic cliffs and prominent escarpments are due to a variety of 

processes: volcanism, faults, folds, landslides and alpine glaciation. The north rim of the Ochoco 

Mountains rose with the Blue Mountain Anticline (folded rocks) (Walker, 1990). The related tectonic fault 

traces have influenced the development of drainage patterns. The mass wasting processes, active in 

Central Oregon, have resulted in the formation of talus slopes, deep seated dormant landslides, slope 

creep and rock topple. The wet areas (seeps and springs) adjacent to dormant landslides and tectonic 

faults identify interrupted drainage flow. 

During the past 10,000 years, large rotational landslides have developed across the Ochoco Mountains. 

When the groundwater flow is modified, pockets of these landslides reactivate at times. The Deschutes 

National Forest has seen the development of a few large landslides, specifically on Green Ridge, along 

the Metolius River. 

Faults

The fault derived fractures in the basalt are areas of concentration for groundwater infiltration. The faults, 

a reflection of tectonic movement, provide avenues for collection of soil and ash which makes a more 

fertile growing environment. The faults may be characterized by “stringers”, areas with concentrations of 

tree and shrub components. Numerous springs occur along the fault lineations, representing 

ground/surface water connections. The faults and folds in the Ochoco Mountains are generally 10 million 

year old features. The Green Ridge Fault on the Deschutes National Forest was most recently active about 

750,000 years ago. The Northwest Rift Zone (passes through Newberry Volcano and Lava Butte) was 

active around 7,000 years ago.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 237

Landslides

The Deschutes National Forest has one dormant landslide (approximately 357 acres), which had a small 

segment reactivate. For the Deschutes National Forest, this is less than 0.1 percent of the analysis area and 

occurs on Green Ridge in the Metolius Basin. This slide area, near Forest Road 1499, reactivated 

following the 1996 rain-on-snow event by releasing a debris flow which gullied out a draw and then 

deposited debris on the lower older toeslope, close to the Metolius River. Approximately 2-3 acres within 

the dormant landslide reactivated during the weather event.

The Ochoco National Forest has the most landslide prone areas of the two Forests, with 1,001 identified 

dormant landslides (approx. 87,199 acres) and 50 active landslides covering 62 acres. The Grassland has 

14 dormant landslides on 1,371 acres. For the Ochoco and Grassland, this is 21 percent of the analysis 

area (88,632 acres). 

Transportation networks (trails and roads) cross the dormant and active landslide terrain. Motorized 

accesses for dispersed campsites are located on the terrain, generally adjacent to streams, on the toeslopes 

of the landslides. When the toeslopes are streambanks, they are prone to active erosion. The material is 

intermittently unstable. 

The active landslides are in isolated drainages, generally not suitable for motorized access to dispersed 

camping, with the exception of Doe Creek, on the Ochoco National Forest. The site, less than one acre in 

size, is on a landslide bench, well above the creek. When the dormant landslides were more active, they 

contributed a portion of the existing sediment currently occupying the flood plains of the stream courses. 

Motorized access for dispersed camping occurs on the dormant landslide terrain, on midslope benches 

and on the toeslopes adjacent to creeks on both the Forest and Grassland.

The landslide debris and Mazama ash contribute to the fine sediments present in the stream substrate on 

both Forests. Higher risk for destabilization of the streambanks along dormant landslide terrain (sediment 

source) is associated with those streams on the 303(d) list for temperature (Table 75 and Table 76 in 

hydrology). When the toeslopes of the landslides confine streams, they are prone to active erosion. The 

landslide debris has reached equilibrium on the hill slopes. As the stream erodes the toeslopes, this 

equilibrium is upset. Accelerated erosion into the streams from the banks is associated with the landslide 

areas. 

The Deschutes National Forest does not have any dormant or active landslide terrain on 303 (d) listed 

streams. On the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, there are 51.5 miles of 

Class I-III 303(d) listed streams adjacent to dormant and active landslide terrain. This represents 16

percent of the total miles of 303(d) listed stream (325.19 miles). The total stream length for all classes is 

2,522 miles. The dormant landslides naturally adjust as the streams cut the toes of the landslide debris and 

as natural fires, insect and disease infestations remove vegetation, allowing increased precipitation to 

saturate the soils. 

Past construction of roads across landslide debris has potentially compacted the debris, creating a damlike feature which can collect water upslope, increasing pore water pressure to the point of failure. When 

the unconsolidated landslide debris is saturated, there is a potential for movement with subsurface water 

flow down slope.

Highly Permeable Rock

The Cascades and Ochoco Mountains are a recharge area for local groundwater aquifers. The vegetated 

lineation’s mark cooling fractures and tectonic fault structures in the Picture Gorge Basalts in the Ochoco 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

238 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Mountains. The vegetation marks surface zones of groundwater recharge. The older Clarno Formation has 

low permeability (Gonthier, 1985) as does the younger John Day Formation (Lite and Gannett, 2002). 

On the Deschutes National Forest, the high percentage of permeable young lava flows and porous 

cinders/pumice (622,609 acres or 38.6 percent) are at an increased risk for hazardous spills directly 

affecting groundwater (Appendix B-6 Geology). The Ochoco National Forest and Grassland are at less of 

a risk (41,753 acres or 5.8 percent) for potential groundwater contamination. The spills could be both 

biological and petroleum based. Vehicles changing oil, or being fueled, emptying RV black water septic 

tanks or grey water on these formations has the potential for introducing contaminants into the 

groundwater, especially if the location is adjacent to wetlands, springs or streams. The young lavas 

provide a direct link between surface and groundwater (Lite and Gannett, 2002). Forest Service brochures 

instruct forest users about how to avoid contaminating water sources while recreating.

Minerals

For the purposes of this report, minerals will be classified in three categories: leasable, locatable and 

salable. 

Leasable Minerals

Leasable minerals include geothermal, oil and gas, defined in 36 CFR 228B. The Oregon Department of 

Geology and Mineral Industries have classified the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests as favorable 

for the discovery of geothermal resources (Tout 1989). Over the past 15 years, geothermal exploration has 

occurred sporadically in the vicinity of Newberry volcano. Ninety-six percent of the Ochoco National 

Forest and Crooked River National Grassland has been classified as prospectively valuable for oil and gas 

(Forest Plan, 1989). 

On the Deschutes National Forest, there are currently 54,000 acres under geothermal lease, of which a 

portion are under an active exploration operation administered by the BLM. The Crooked River National 

Grassland has 10,363 acres under oil and gas lease but no active operations. There will be no change in 

operations with this proposed action for either the Deschutes or the Grassland. Some lease areas prohibit 

public motorized access.

Locatable Minerals

Locatable minerals, such as gold, mercury and thundereggs, are present within the boundary of the 

Ochoco National Forest (as defined in 36 CFR 228A). The Deschutes National Forest does not have the 

geologic conditions to support the presence of gold or mercury but there is opal present. According to the 

December 10, 2008 BLM mining claim recordation report, there are a number of mining claims recorded 

in the analysis area on the Ochoco National Forest and two mining claims on the Deschutes National 

Forest. The proposed action would not change use of the mining claims. Access would still be granted 

through the plan of operations, if the activity requires motorized cross-country access. 

Rockhounding is a popular family activity on both Forests. Over the years, rockhounding has occurred 

primarily on the Ochoco National Forest and the Crooked River National Grassland. There are three 

frequently used sites on the Ochoco National Forest: White Fir, Whistler and Maury Agate Beds. There 

are other areas also noted for agate and thundereggs. The proposed action would not change access to the 

rockhound sites. The more frequented sites are all on open roads. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 239

Salable Minerals

Salable mineral materials include cinders, gravel or rock suitable for crushing or landscape use, as defined 

in 36 CFR 228C. These mineral material sources are located across the two Forests and Grassland and are 

primarily basalt, andesite and rhyolite. They were developed over the past four decades primarily to 

support the National Forest system roads. The majority of the material removed from these areas 

continues to be for County, State or Federal use. The temporarily inactive to active rock sources range 

from pit run to crushing quality. The majority of the mineral material extracted is used for landscape rock, 

road reconstruction, fisheries, riparian and wildlife projects. 

The mineral material sources are also popular areas for other uses that are not related to mineral 

extraction such as OHV play areas, rock crawling and steep slope challenges, group campsites, snoparks

and target shooting to name a few. Currently, most mineral material sources on the two Forests are open 

to motorized use unless they have been closed with a gate for rock crushing or when other mineral 

extraction activities are active and pose a public safety hazard. Some of the mineral material sources, 

through low use, are reclaiming naturally.

The two Forests and the Grassland have mineral material sources in various stages of development. Some 

are in active use, some are closed and reclaiming naturally, and some have not been used recently and are 

temporarily inactive. On the Deschutes National Forest, under the no-action alternative, included in the 

200 material sources (778 acres, 0.05 percent of the Forest land base) inventoried, there are four mineral 

material sources open for motorized access on designated OHV trail system routes. These four material 

sources, on the Bend-Ft. Rock district, are part of the East Fort Rock OHV trail system: South Cinder 

Cone Cinder Pit (3030), Ice Rock Quarry (3105), Sabol Butte Cinder Pit (3041) and Ground Hog Rock 

Quarry (3098). They contain 1.86 acres, 17.12 acres, 5.3 acres and 16.34 acres, respectively. Ground Hog 

Rock Quarry is currently a designated rock crawl area for high clearance vehicles. As described in the 

affected environment section, except for those included in these designated systems, most of these pits are 

within areas that generally permit cross-country travel. In the designated motorized trail systems, 

conditions for use of the open areas are included in the regulations applied to the entire trail system. On 

the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland; of the 331 material sources (628 

acres, 0.10 percent of the Forest land base) inventoried; there is only one mineral material source 

currently dedicated as open for motorized access as part of a designated system. Canal Material Source 

has been incorporated into the Henderson Flat OHV Management Area.

Free use permits to the State of Oregon and the counties account for the majority of the large volumes 

extracted on each Forest. The proponents vary from year to year but the use is fairly consistent (Table 88). 

The Deschutes National Forest averages 412,361 tons extracted per year at a value of $264,705. The 

Ochoco National Forest/Crooked River National Grassland has an average use of 57,597 tons/year at a 

value of $ 23,224, based on fair market value. These volumes include rock hauled for on-forest projects. 

Rock purchased from commercial sources located off forest is also used on projects within the National 

Forests. The National Forest material sources are located in a variety of management areas.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

240 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 88. Mineral material use for Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River 

National Grassland

Year Deschutes NF 

Weight (tons) Deschutes NF Value Ochoco NF/CRNG Weight (tons)

Ochoco NF/CRNG 

Value

2006 80,934 $81,265 12,766 $4,555

2007 426,823 $226,145 150,492 $58,292

2008 729,327 $486,705 9,534 $6,826

Total 1,237,084 $794,115 172,792 $69,673

Average Weight or 

income/year 412,361 tons/yr $264,705/yr 57,597 tons/yr $23,224/yr

Access to and use of the mineral materials within these sources is subject to permit conditions, and would 

not be affected by this decision. However, if the source is not currently closed to public access, then 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would affect access by the public to use the sources for other activities, following the 

proposed closures.

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Alternative 1

Active and Dormant Landslide Terrain

Motorized Cross-country Travel and Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Alternative 1 (no-action) would continue to permit any presently allowed motorized access off designated 

routes or motorized access for dispersed camping. Patterns of movement of active and dormant landslide 

terrain would continue to be mainly influenced by the natural process of erosion under the current 

precipitation pattern and the current patterns and trends from recreation use. 

The majority of the dormant and the active landslide terrain is located on the Ochoco National Forest and 

Crooked River National Grassland (Table 89 and Table 90). Landslide terrain tends to develop unusual 

subsurface drainage patterns. The intensity and style of management activity on landslide terrain, in the 

vicinity of seeps and springs, could potentially change the drainage pattern which increases the risk for 

instability. Of the alternatives, Alternative 1 has the most potential to adversely affect landslide terrain.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 241

Table 89. Percent affected dormant landslide terrain within all the alternatives (acres)

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping Total Forest 

Acres

Alternative 1 

– No-action Alternative 2 Alternative 3 

Deschutes NF (1,612,991 acres)

Existing open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping 214

Continued existing open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping 11

Proposed open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping 10

Proposed open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping, with Special Provisions – non-riparian & 

riparian

67 88

Total Dormant Landslide Area

357 acres 

0.02%

214 acres

0.01%

88 acres 

0.01%

88 acres 

0.01%

Ochoco NF (613,833 acres)

Existing Open Year round & seasonally to motorized 

access for dispersed camping 64,398

Continued Existing open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping, year round and seasonally 7,902

Proposed open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping, with Special Provisions – non-riparian & 

riparian

4,281 10,536

Proposed open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping, seasonally w/ Special Provisions – nonriparian and riparian693 2,352

Total Dormant Landslide Area 88,568 acres 

14.4%

64,398 acres

10.5%

12,876 acres

2.1%

12,876 acres

2.1%

Crooked River NG (110,071 acres)

Proposed Open Year Round to motorized access for 

dispersed camping 73

Proposed open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping, seasonally w/ Special Provisions – nonriparian13 13

Proposed open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping, with Special Provisions – non-riparian and 

riparian

169 242

Total Dormant Landslide Area 1,371 acres 

1.3% 0 acres 255 Acres0.23%

255 acres

0.23%

Table 90. Active landslide terrain within acres open for dispersed campsites

Dispersed Campsites Total Forest 

Acres

Alternative 1 -

No-action - 

Acres

Alternative 2 - 

Acres

Alternative 3 -

Acres

Deschutes NF (1,612,991 acres)

Total Active Landslide 2-3

(<0.0002%)

Ochoco NF (613,833 acres)

Existing Open Year round and seasonally to 

motorized access for dispersed camping 46 acres

Proposed Open Year Round and seasonally 6.5 acres

Proposed open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping, seasonally w/ Special 

Provisions – non-riparian and riparian

5.9 acres 2.1 acres

Proposed open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping, with Special Provisions – 

non-riparian and riparian

0.01 acres 10.3 acres
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

242 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Dispersed Campsites Total Forest 

Acres

Alternative 1 -

No-action - 

Acres

Alternative 2 - 

Acres

Alternative 3 -

Acres

Total Active Landslide acres –Ochoco NF 62 acres 

(0.01%)

46 acres 

(0.01%)

12.4 acres 

(<0.01%)

12.4 acres 

(<0.01%)

Highly Permeable Rock

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

On the Deschutes National Forest, the high percentage of permeable young lava flows and porous 

cinders/pumice (622,609 acres or 38.6 percent) are at an increased risk for hazardous spills from 

motorized vehicles directly effecting groundwater. Under the no-action alternative, 406,345 acres (25 

percent) would remain open to motorized access for dispersed camping (Table 91) and susceptible to 

adverse effects. 

On the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, under the no-action Alternative, 

31,986 acres (4 percent) would remain open to motorized access for dispersed camping (Table 91).

Table 91. Permeable rocks (acres) open to motorized access for dispersed camping on the Deschutes National 

Forest, Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland

Forest Alternative 1-

No-action Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Deschutes National Forest (1,612,991 acres)

Existing Open Year round and seasonally to motorized access 

for dispersed camping and designated sites 406,345 acres

Continued Existing open year round and seasonally to

motorized access for dispersed camping and designated sites 129,758 acres 8,438 acres

Proposed open year round and seasonally to motorized 

access for dispersed camping 12,827 acres

Proposed open to motorized access for dispersed camping, 

seasonally w/ Special Provisions – non-riparian and riparian 2,109 acres 14,394 acres

Proposed open to motorized access for dispersed camping,

with Special Provisions – non-riparian and riparian 15,648 acres 137,510 acres

Deschutes TOTAL 406,345 acres 160,342 acres 160,342 acres

Ochoco NF and Crooked River NG (723,904 acres)

Existing Open Year round and seasonally to motorized access 

for dispersed camping 31,986 acres

Continued Existing open year round and seasonally to 

motorized access for dispersed camping 3,781 acres

Proposed open to motorized access for dispersed camping 261 acres

Proposed open to motorized access for dispersed camping, 

seasonally w/ Special Provisions – non-riparian and riparian 663 acres 1,513 acres

Proposed open to motorized access for dispersed camping,

with Special Provisions – non-riparian and riparian 2,591 acres 5,783 acres

Ochoco NF and CRNG TOTALS 31,986 acres 7,296 acres 7,296 acres

Salable Minerals

Cross-country travel and motorized access for dispersed camping would have no effect on the usefulness 

of a mineral material source for commercial or private uses, which would be issued under permit. The 

permits include measures to reduce potential introduction of invasive plants, require appropriate fire

precautions and extraction parameters. The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Grassland have 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 243

identified sources that would remain open for OHV, dispersed camping and other recreation use, in 

addition to providing aggregate for permits and projects (See Table 92).

Table 92. Acres and number of mineral material sources by forest by alternative

Forest Alternative 1 - No-action Alternative 2 Alternative 3

Deschutes NF –

1,612,991 acres

200 Material Sources on 

778 acres(0.05%)

30 Material Sources on 

160 Acres (0.01%)

30 Material Sources on 

160 Acres (0.01%)

Ochoco NF –

613,833 acres

313 Material Sources on 

523 Acres (0.09%)

20 Material Sources on 

129.5 Acres (0.02%)

20 Material Sources on 

129.5Acres (0.02%)

Crooked River NG –

110,071 acres

18 Material Sources on 

105 Acres (0.1%)

2 Material Sources on 

61.5 Acres (0.01%)

2 Material Sources on 

61.5 Acres (0.01%)

Alternatives 2 and 3

Motorized Access off Designated Routes

There would be no effect from any of the action alternatives on the geologic resource because motorized 

access off designated routes would be prohibited. The remaining designated routes, through past 

engineering design, have had drainage and location factored in, generally reducing impacts on dormant 

landslide terrain. Those areas where highly porous rocks are crossed have had drainage addressed. There 

would be no effect on the uses of mineral material sources because the rock would be extracted under a 

permit or part of a long term management plan for internal use. 

Active and Dormant Landslide Terrain

For the active landslide terrain (See Table 90), the only drainage likely to have dispersed camping would 

be Doe Creek on the Ochoco National Forest. The rest of the active landslide acres are in areas not likely 

to see dispersed camping due to steep slopes. It is unlikely that vehicle compaction would have an effect 

on the active landslide terrain for either Forest. 

For the dormant landslide terrain (See Table 89), the 30 foot setback from wetlands, springs and stream 

banks would keep the risk low for reactivating dormant landslide terrain. 

On the Ochoco National Forest, the effects of motorized access to dispersed camps located on the 

dormant landslide/ 303(d) stream banks have the same potential for reactivating the landslide debris as if 

located on non-303(d) streams (See Table 93). Characteristics at risk for 303(d) listed streams include 

temperature, dissolved oxygen or sediment. Any additional sediment added to an already compromised 

stream system has the potential to further compromise the stream's health. Sections of 303 (d) listed 

streams adjacent to dormant landslide terrain are adjacent to a larger mass of unconsolidated material.

The Deschutes National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland have no 303(d) listed streams 

crossing dormant landslide terrain in Alternatives 2 or 3. On the Grassland there is dormant landslide 

terrain located along a 303(d) listed stream within areas currently closed to motorized access that would 

not be affected by this decision. Under both action alternatives, the 14.27 miles of 303(d) stream on 

dormant landslide terrain on the Ochoco NF could be impacted (Table 93). With the 30 foot motorized 

setback adjacent to stream banks and wetlands, both alternatives would benefit 303(d) listed streams more 

than Alternative 1. There is no difference between Alternative 2 and Alternative 3 for the dormant 

landslide area adjacent to 303(d) listed streams. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

244 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 93. Miles of 303(d) listed streams on dormant landslide terrain on the Ochoco NF and Crooked River 

National Grassland

Ochoco NF and Crooked River NG Alternative 1 – 

No-action (Miles)

Alternative 2 

(Miles)

Alternative 3 –

Special Provisions 

(Miles)

Existing Closed to Motorized Access 3.21 2.67

Existing Closed to motorized access for dispersed 

camping 3.15 3.15

Existing Open to motorized access for Dispersed 

Camping, year round and seasonally 33.9 0.09

Proposed open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping seasonally, with Special Provisions, 

riparian

3.2 3.2

Proposed open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping with Special Provisions, riparian 10.98 10.98

Proposed closed to motorized access for Dispersed 

camping 20.13

Totals 6.36 miles closed/

33.86 miles open

25.95 miles closed/

14.27 mi open 14.18 miles open

Out of a total 2,522 miles of stream (all classes) on the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland, there are 

325.19 miles of 303(d) listed streams. Currently, there are 33.86 miles (10 percent) of the 325.19 miles of 

303(d) streams located on dormant landslide terrain open to motorized access for dispersed camping. 

Under the action alternatives, 4.4 percent of the 325.19 miles are on dormant landslide terrain open to 

motorized access for dispersed camping. When viewed over the total stream miles, less than 0.6 percent 

of the total stream miles on dormant landslide terrain would be open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping. 

Streamside stabilization has the ability to decrease the effect of other activities on the natural pace of 

landforming processes. In Alternatives 2 and 3, provisions for a 30 foot setback from water bodies would 

have a beneficial effect by reducing potential sediment sources within the stream systems and on the 

upper slopes, which would help to improve water quality. Maintaining riparian habitat conservation areas 

along the stream channels would reduce the risk associated with reactivating dormant landslides and 

reduce stream bank erosion. This would prevent removal of the toe slopes of dormant landslides located 

on the stream banks, which upsets the natural equilibrium of the hillside and has the capability of 

becoming a sediment source. 

Although the risk is low for reactivating the dormant landslide terrain and the affected stream length is a 

small percentage of the total stream miles, the 30 foot setback would protect and maintain streamside 

vegetation which would have a beneficial effect by helping to protect the slightly more sensitive dormant 

landslide toeslopes adjacent to 303(d) listed streams where there is motorized access to dispersed 

campsites.

The dormant and active areas are at low risk for reactivation by recreation activities such as vehicle 

impacts adjacent to stream banks located on toeslopes of landslide terrain, as long as the bank stability is 

maintained. The potential for movement being initiated is more likely to come from an extreme weather 

event, like a rain-on-snow or focused thunderstorm. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 245

Highly Permeable Rock

Motorized access off designated routes and Motorized access for dispersed camping

Alternatives 2 and 3 would protect the groundwater from potential contamination in areas with porous 

rocks that also have concentrated vehicle use such as areas with heavy cross-country use or where there is 

motorized access to dispersed campsites.

On the Deschutes National Forest, approximately 622,609 acres (38.6 percent) of the lithology has a high 

permeability. Alternatives 2 and 3 would allow for motorized access for dispersed camping on 160,342 

acres (9.9 percent). On the Ochoco National Forest, approximately 41,753 acres (5.7 percent) of the 

lithology has a high permeability. Alternative 2 and Alternative 3 would allow motorized access for 

dispersed camping on 7,296 acres (1 percent). 

For Alternatives 2 and 3, maintaining the minimum 30 foot setback from the wetland edge for motorized 

access would help reduce the potential risk for groundwater contamination associated with highly 

permeable rock. Alternatives 2 and 3 would provide greater protection than Alternative 1 for both Forests 

by restricting camping to existing, designated, or defined sites and maintaining the 30 foot buffer from 

wetland, seeps, springs and stream edges for motorized access. 

Salable Minerals

Access to and use of the mineral materials within material sources is subject to permit conditions, and 

would not be affected by this decision. However, if the source does not currently prohibit cross-country 

travel, Alternatives 2 and 3 would prohibit general access for cross-country travel except where 

specifically permitted. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a beneficial effect by reducing the number of mineral material sources 

available for motorized recreation use, thus reducing the potential of these sources, if containing weed 

populations, of being a weed source for mechanical vectors from recreation or other non-mineral uses. 

Mineral material source sites may be closed due to invasive plants until these plants can be controlled. 

Invasive plant specialists would make this determination based on the invasive plant species and the 

location and extent of the infestation.

These requirements could reduce the actual number of mineral material sources available for joint 

recreation and mineral uses. Minimizing the spread of invasive species helps reduce costs to projects 

because the mineral material would be available locally, with a shorter haul.

Reducing the number of active mineral material sources available for motorized recreation use could have 

an indirect beneficial effect of reducing the chances for user conflicts, and potential safety issues. 

There is no difference between Alternatives 2 and 3, since the same number of material sources and acres 

would be available for mineral extraction. 

On the Deschutes National Forest, ten material sources on Bend/Ft. Rock, ten sources on the Crescent and 

ten material sources on the Sisters Ranger Districts would remain open to cross-country travel and to 

motorized access for dispersed camping, for a total of 30 material sources. Of the 778 acres currently 

developed for mineral material, about 160 acres, or 21 percent, would remain open for cross-country 

travel. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

246 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

On the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland, a total of 22 mineral material sources would remain open 

to cross-country travel and to motorized access for dispersed camping. Two material sources on the 

Crooked River National Grassland, eleven sources on Lookout Mountain District and nine sources on 

Paulina District would remain open to motorized access off designated routes and to motorized access for 

dispersed camping, covering about 191 acres. Of the 628 acres currently developed for mineral material, 

30 percent would remain open for motorized travel off designated routes for all classes of vehicles unless 

otherwise designated through subsequent decisions for both alternatives. 

The criteria used to determine which mineral material sources would be closed to motorized access varied 

across the two Forests and Grassland. On the Deschutes National Forest, 79 sources were closed for no 

known OHV use, 52 for no open road access, 15 for currently closed by gates/berms or a signed closure 

order, nine due to reclamation, two for small size, 41 for no definable boundaries, 12 for adjacency to 

private property, three for safety, two for special use permits with the Federal Highway projects, 16 for 

invasive species, six for being within Newberry National Volcanic Monument, five by dedicated use to 

mineral material source extraction and six through other travel closure areas. 

On the Ochoco National Forest, five sources were closed for no known OHV use, 39 for no open road 

access, six were closed by gates/berms or a signed closure order, 31 due to reclamation, 192 for small 

size, two for no definable boundaries, one for adjacency to wilderness, two for adjacency to private and/or 

State property, 21 for invasive species, and 11 by dedicated use to mineral material source.

On the Grassland, one source was closed for no open road access, three are currently closed by

gates/berms or a signed closure order, four due to reclamation, one for being within the Middle 

Deschutes/Lower Crooked Rivers Wild and Scenic River Management Corridor, two for adjacency to 

private property and one for invasive species.

One of the reasons for the number of closed active sources on both Forests is to ensure weed free sources 

for agency internal aggregate needs. The Ochoco has already experienced increased aggregate haul costs 

due to a medusahead infestation which closed the material source. For the Deschutes NF, 160 acres and 

30 active material sources would remain open to non-highway-legal vehicle use. This is a reduction of 

618 acres or 79 percent (778 total acres) from the existing sources for the Deschutes. For the Ochoco, 130 

acres and 20 material sources would remain open. For the Grassland, 61 acres and 2 material sources 

would remain open. From the 628 acres of mineral material sources on the Ochoco NF and the Crooked 

River NG, this represents a reduction of 439 acres or 70 percent.

Some of the closed acreage is in active material sources, some of the acres represent sources in various 

stages of reclamation that presently are not used for mineral extraction or any other use, except for 

growing new trees. These acres have not been used for mineral extraction in over 20 years in some 

situations. 

Soils 

Executive Summary

This section summarizes the analysis of the effects on soils within the analysis area that could be affected 

by the proposed action.

Approximately 625,430 acres on the Deschutes National Forest, and 431,784 acres on the Ochoco 

National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland are currently open to cross-country travel In 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 247

general, the implementation of the action alternatives of this EIS would have a positive effect on the soil 

resource by reducing the amount of area on which motorized vehicle traffic would be allowed.

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a positive effect by restricting motorized access for dispersed camping to 

within 300 feet of centerline of all designated routes, allowing natural recovery of soils and vegetation in 

currently existing sites greater than 300 feet from an open road. There would also be a beneficial effect 

associated with pulling back vehicular traffic and parking for dispersed camping at least 30 feet from 

stream banks. However, additional site specific impacts could have an adverse effect as new parking areas 

are created to compensate for the 30 foot setback restriction.

Alternative 2 could have an adverse effect on currently un-impacted areas of the soil resource. Upland 

areas that lack vegetation capable of inhibiting travel would be susceptible to the establishment of new 

campsites, parking areas, and new ingress/egress routes within 300 feet of designated routes Alternative 3 

would beneficially reduce potential impacts to the soil resource from motorized access for dispersed 

camping as a direct result of implementing Special Provision restrictions on additional upland areas 

managed with General Provision restrictions under Alternative 2. Alternative 3 protects substantially more 

acres than Alternative 2 from direct impacts to the soil resource as a result of motorized access for 

dispersed camping. This equates to the restriction of motorized access for dispersed camping on nearly 

eight times as many acres on the Deschutes National Forest (404,730 acres versus 51,044 acres) and over 

twice as many acres on the Ochoco National Forest (124,327 acres versus 54,594 acres). 

Affected Environment

Geology

The Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland are 

primarily underlain by volcanic rocks of a variety of ages. The older volcanic terrain (40 Ma to 17 Ma), 

underlying the Ochoco National Forest, is comprised of basalts and andesites weathering to clays. Water 

infiltration does not readily occur and groundwater flow is moderate to low. Large rotational landslides 

have developed across the Ochoco Mountains during the past 10,000 years and pockets of these landslides 

reactivate at times when the groundwater flow is modified. Approximately 62 acres on the Ochoco 

National Forest have active landslides and 87,199 acres contain dormant landslide terrain Approximately 

1,371 acres on the Grassland and 357 acres on the Deschutes National Forest are located on dormant 

landslide terrain (see geology section). The younger volcanic units (less than 17 Ma) underlying the 

Grassland and Deschutes National Forest are comprised of basalts and andesites that exhibit more porous 

characteristics, allowing more groundwater flow Landslide prone areas on the Deschutes are very 

minimal, generally limited to steep glaciated valleys of the Little Deschutes River and tributaries of the

Metolius River.

Soils

Volcanic ash and pumice deposits from Mount Mazama, Newberry volcano and others have generally 

deposited moderately deep layers of pumiceous ash across the Deschutes National Forest. The Mazama 

and Newberry events also deposited deep layers of coarser pumice on the Crescent Ranger District and 

the Bend/Ft. Rock District, respectively. A variable mantle of sand size ashfall from Mount Mazama caps 

older residual soils on the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland. In general, soils are moderately deep to 

shallow across the Ochoco and Grassland, and deep to moderately deep across the Deschutes. Older soils 

similar to those found on the Ochoco and Grassland are present on the Deschutes National Forest on Pine 

Mountain (Bend/Ft. Rock District) and Green Ridge (Sisters Ranger District), respectively.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

248 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Soil characteristics within the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Grassland vary primarily 

according to the type and depth of the parent material on site. Soils in the planning area are primarily 

volcanic in origin, generally having developed from wind deposited ash and pumice from Mount Mazama 

and/or other vent sources. Older soils on the Ochoco National Forest and parts of the Deschutes National 

Forest have weathered in place from volcanic basalts, andesites or tuffs, and may or may not be covered 

by ashfall from a vent source. 

Soil characteristics also differ due to variations in topography, microclimate and moisture regimes that 

influence the weathering development of the soil and the vegetation supported on site. Plant communities 

supported within the planning area include scablands, grasslands and coniferous forests, each of which 

provide varying amounts of natural, vegetated cover. The amount and type of cover influences the soils 

ability to resist the natural erosive forces of wind and water as a result of rainfall impacts or overland 

flow. Change to the amount and type of vegetated cover is one of the primary characteristic of the soil 

resource affected by management or recreational activities regulated in the travel access management 

proposal. 

Erosion Hazards

Soils across both forests are variably susceptible to wind and water erosion, a risk that is calculated as a 

basic erosion rate for each soil type and expressed on a relative basis as an erosion hazard when slope 

class is accounted for. The basic erosion rate is the inherent susceptibility of the soil to resist erosive 

forces, which is inversely related to surface texture and is calculated based on 100 percent bare mineral 

soil conditions. Since the basic erosion rate is primarily influenced by the particle size of the surface 

mineral soil, finer textured soils on the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland generally have higher 

values than those on the Deschutes. 

Erosion hazard expresses a more accurate rate of erosion given existing amounts of surface cover, slope 

gradient and intensity of a specific rainfall or wind event. Although the basic erosion rate for soils across 

the planning area is generally moderate or low, the erosion hazard includes classes of high and very high 

when these elements are factored in. Existing vegetative cover is generally sufficient to reduce raindrop 

impacts and minimize overland flow accumulations and energies, except for areas burned within the last 

year. Slopes range from slightly steep to steep across the Ochoco National Forest and landslide prone 

terrain is present. Slopes across the Grassland and Deschutes National Forest range from slightly steep to 

moderately steep, with some steep slopes present on the Deschutes along glaciated valley side slopes. 

Rainfall intensity is generally highest when associated with thunderstorm events, although the duration of 

these events is generally short-lived and infiltration rates of most soils with sufficient vegetative cover are 

capable of absorbing the majority of rainfall.

The likelihood of intense rainfall for extended durations tends to be greatest on the Ochoco National 

Forest and Grassland, although the Cascade Crest and all portions of the Deschutes can receive this type 

of event. Although soils are generally moderately well to somewhat excessively drained across the 

planning area, and are less likely to be saturated prior to a thunderstorm event, intense rainfall events do 

occasionally exceed the infiltration rates of the soil. Rainfall that does not infiltrate into the soil generally 

becomes surface runoff in the form of localized sheet flow that can produce rills and gullies when storm 

durations are extended or compacted surfaces such as roads or trails act to concentrate them. The loss of 

surface cover due to mechanical or fire disturbances also directly increases the erosion rate of the soil 

resource 

Surface rock fragments, organic matter content, structure and infiltration rate of the soil also contribute to 

the calculation of erosion hazard for a particular soil type. Surface rock fragments are generally highest 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 249

across scablands on the Grassland and Ochoco National Forest, and glaciated terrain on the Deschutes 

National Forest Organic matter content is relatively low throughout all areas and structure varies 

according to the age and type of parent material Infiltration rates are generally moderately rapid for soils 

on the Ochoco National Forest and moderately rapid to rapid on the Deschutes National Forest, although 

there are clay scabland areas on the Ochoco and Grassland with lower infiltration rates readily exceeded 

by thunderstorm events. Erosion hazards have been calculated for soils on the Ochoco National Forest 

and Grassland, and estimated for soils on the Deschutes National Forest. 

Sediment Production

As a result of the inherent physical and climatological characteristics of the planning area, sediment

production from soils is generally low to moderate. Exceptions include finer textured soils on scablands 

or areas of high disturbance (compacted or de-vegetated) exposed to high intensity rainfalls that exceed 

the infiltration rates of the soil. Although sediment yields have not been directly measured in local 

streams and watersheds, they are known to be accelerated in many upland areas as a result of surfacedisturbing land uses such as grazing, mining, timber harvesting, and off-road vehicle use. Poorly located 

and/or un-maintained roads and trails can also contribute sediment above and beyond normal amounts 

generated by a watershed. 

Change to the infiltration rates of the mineral soil as a result of mechanical disturbance is also one of the 

primary characteristic of the soil resource affected by management or recreational activities regulated in 

the travel access management proposal. Land disturbances on unstable, steep slopes can alter the surface 

and subsurface drainage of water across landscapes and increase the potential to initiate landslides. OHV

trails can intercept and concentrate runoff that tends to saturate localized areas. Water concentrated on and 

above OHV trails that traverse mountain slopes can increase the weight of hillslopes and raises the risk of 

landslides on susceptible areas of the Ochoco National Forest. 

Management Direction 

The Deschutes Land and Resource Management Plan (LRMP) includes Forest-wide standards and 

guidelines that direct land management activities to promote the maintenance or enhancement of soil 

productivity Forest standards and guidelines applicable to this project include: 

• Leaving a minimum of 80 percent of an activity area in a condition of acceptable productivity 

potential following the implementation of proposed activities (Forest Plan standard and guidelines 

SL-1 and SL-3; p. 4-70); 

• Regulating the use of mechanical equipment in sensitive soil areas. Operations will be restricted to 

existing trails and roads whenever feasible (SL-5). 

The Ochoco Land and Resource Management Plan includes Forest-wide standards and guidelines to 

minimize compaction, displacement, erosion and mass wasting of the soil resource by proposed activities. 

These are summarized on p 4-195, 196, 197 and 198 of the Ochoco LRMP.

Deschutes and Ochoco LRMP standard and guidelines for the soil resource relevant to this project 

(Deschutes SL-1, SL-3 and SL-5; Ochoco p 4-195, 196, 197) would be met under either action 

alternative.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

250 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Analysis of Environmental Effects

The following section summarizes the potential effects that motorized vehicles can incur on the soil and 

vegetative components that indirectly affect the erosion and sediment potential of impacted areas. 

Motorized access off of designated routes and motorized access for dispersed camping can compact and 

displace the soil, reducing the productivity of the resource and altering the vegetative cover and the 

erosion/sediment potential of the affected areas. 

Soils - The range of soil textures and soil types located in riparian and upland landscape positions across 

the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests are all susceptible to detrimental increases in soil strength 

after multiple vehicle trips. Some finer textured soils in riparian areas can become rutted and express 

detrimental puddling when vehicular traffic occurs during wet conditions. Increased soil strength directly 

reduces the productivity and decreases the infiltration rates of the affected areas on a localized basis. 

Vegetation – The health and vigor of riparian and upland vegetation present across the two forests are 

susceptible to physical crushing and detrimental compaction. Existing parking or vehicular access roads 

associated with dispersed camping are generally detrimentally compacted and have reduced vegetative 

cover. Recovery of vegetation on these sites is generally slow due to the compacted ground and continual 

traffic during the growing season. 

Sediment – Decreases in infiltration rates and the loss of effective cover capable of reducing raindrop 

impacts and filtering sediment from overland flows directly increases the potential to source and route 

sediment from areas impacted by motorized vehicle traffic. Erosion losses from these sites can reduce soil 

productivity and produce sediment that can affect water quality and fish habitat when routed to streams, 

wetlands, and lakes.

The extent to which cross-country travel, localized vehicular traffic, and dispersed camping have affected 

the soil resource is variable according to the physical characteristics of the soil, the physiographic position 

on the landscape, and the intensity of use. All three uses have increased over the last decade as motorized 

recreational populations increase and more people disperse camp. Soils across both forests are susceptible 

to compaction from continued motorized traffic, with those located in riparian locations somewhat more 

so due to generally finer surface textures 

Cross-country travel 

Approximately 625,430 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and 431,784 acres on the Ochoco 

National Forest are currently open for year round or seasonal motorized access off of designated routes. 

Cross-country access for off-highway vehicles (OHV) and automobiles has variably incurred compaction 

and displacement of the soil resource throughout the two National Forests. Impacts to the soil resource are 

more concentrated where play areas and hill climbs have been created, and less concentrated when 

associated with point to point and loop trails. Play areas tend to have extensive soil disturbance as a result 

of continual use of hill climbs and high density trails that creates contiguous areas of displaced top soil, 

exposed mineral soil and denuded vegetation. Cross-country trails tend to impact a lesser percentage of 

the land base by creating relatively narrow trails at varying densities across the landscape. 

Soils where play areas or trails have been created by cross-country travel have had physical and vegetated 

characteristics affected by OHVs and automobile traffic. Cross-country travel generally displaces the 

surface organic matter from the pathway, compacts the mineral soil, and physically crushes existing 

vegetation where traffic occurs. Compaction and displacement combine to reduce the productivity of the 

soil on affected areas, while continued traffic limits the re-growth and cover of live vegetation on and 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 251

immediately adjacent to the path of travel. Compaction of the surface mineral soil on gentle grades 

destroys structure and decreases pore spaces between mineral soil grains, directly decreasing water 

infiltration rates and increasing overland flow rates and energies. These conditions in turn increase the 

potential for erosion and transport of sediment from these areas. 

Hill climb sections of user-created trails are often too steep in grade, creating conditions that displaces 

mineral soil and gullies the trail. Most trail sections lack adequate drainage and are generally not 

maintained to minimize erosion or gullying of the trail tread. Trail sections with these conditions that are 

not located near water are primarily losing productivity due to the erosional loss of surface organic and 

mineral soil horizons. Trails located near water that do not have sufficient drainage structures to keep 

them from being hydrologically connected to the stream network are capable of contributing sediment 

directly to streams, as well as incurring localized loss of productivity. 

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Localized vehicular traffic for access to dispersed camping or other activities has variably disturbed the 

soil resource across the two forest area. The effects to the soil resource are similar to those described for 

cross-country travel. Continual use of an area by vehicles for dispersed camping or day use parking 

generally results in compacted soil and a surface denuded of vegetation. These areas are present across 

the project area where desirable dispersed camp sites, generally along stream courses, have been used for 

many years. 

Dispersed camping - Inventories of dispersed sites across the planning area are derived from Forest Plan 

era surveys on the Ochoco and Grassland, or from a combination of Forest Plan era and more recent 

surveys on the Deschutes. The majority of sites are within 100 feet of streams, lakes and wetlands, 

including 905 sites on the Deschutes and 214 sites on the Ochoco and Grassland. Summaries of 

inventoried sites queried from GIS include: 

• Sites within 100 foot riparian buffers; (Deschutes = 905; Ochoco/Grassland = 214)

• Sites located within 300 feet of an open road that also has a stream or wetland within 300 feet 

(Special Provision riparian areas); and 

• Sites within non-riparian upland locations greater than 300 feet from an open road.

The creation and continued use of dispersed campsites adversely affects the soil resource by compacting 

mineral soil and reducing vegetative cover, especially in areas where vehicles traffic or tents are set up. 

Compacted conditions and continued traffic keep the surface denuded of vegetation and limit the recovery 

of vegetation in traffic areas during the growing season. As a result, the extent of impact within a 

dispersed site tends to expand and/or become more barren over time as the duration and intensity of use 

increases. Impacted areas generally have decreased infiltration rates and lower surface cover that can 

contribute to an increase in the amount and energy of overland flow during rainfall events, thereby 

increasing the risk of erosion from the site and sediment contribution to streams if the site is 

hydrologically connected to the stream network.

Site Specific Areas - The majority of dispersed campsites across the planning area are associated with 

water features or other desirable destinations that have been used for many years. The following areas 

listed in Table 94 have been identified by District and Forest personnel as having high levels of impact 

from motorized access for dispersed camping and/or cross-country travel. Best professional judgment was 

used to estimate the extent of existing impacts in these areas and potential changes as a result of 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

252 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

implementing the Travel Management Rule and site specific OHV trail projects proposed across the 

planning area.

Table 94. Site specific areas of high impact on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests

Site Total Existing 

acres of impact

Estimated acres 

or miles under 

Alternatives 

2 & 3

Assumptions for change under Alternatives 2 & 3

Crane Prairie 

Reservoir 60 acres 30 assumes 50% of currently impacted area is from unauthorized travel

Wickiup Reservoir 910 acres 450 assumes 50% of currently impacted area is from 

unauthorized travel

Whychus Creek 

crossing area 20 acres 4 majority of existing impact is from unauthorized travel

Meadow Lakes 20 acres 10 user created trails to be closed and setback of motorized 

access for dispersed sites back 30’ from water’s edge

Metolius/Jack 

Creek/Canyon Creeks 9 acres 3 decrease in unauthorized travel

McKay Creek

(Ochoco National 

Forest)

9,000 acres 200 Area closure for unauthorized travel and designation of sites 

for dispersed camping.

Lava Rock 

unauthorized trails

(Des. National Forest)

100+ miles ~207

miles

Site specific Lava Rock OHV EIS proposes to designate trail 

system in area

Green Ridge 

unauthorized trails

(Des. National Forest)

~100 miles 0 Travel Management Rule to close unauthorized trails

Alternative 1

Under the no ction alternative, approximately 625,430 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and 

431,784 acres on the Ochoco National Forest would remain open for year round or seasonal motorized 

access off of designated routes. Although the access and use of areas open to motorized travel varies 

widely due to slope, rock and vegetation constraints, the soil resource on the majority of these acres 

would remain susceptible to additional impacts from cross-country travel, and motorized access for 

dispersed camping. Unrestricted cross-country travel would likely expand the extent of compacted and 

displaced soil as existing trails continue to be used and new trails were formed. 

In general, the soil resource is likely to remain in a detrimental condition in areas currently impacted by 

motorized vehicle use, while new areas of the soil resource would incur additional detrimental soil 

conditions as motorized use expands and increases. As overall recreation use numbers increase across the 

two forests, additional impacts to the soil resource are most likely to occur adjacent to the heavily used 

existing dispersed camping or unauthorized trail areas described in Table 94. 

Cross-country travel

Unauthorized trails have increased in number over the past decade as motorized vehicle users explore and 

expand their range across public lands. Unrestricted cross-country access under Alternative 1 would 

continue to allow the creation and use of unauthorized trails across the two forest area. The soil resource 

would continue to be adversely impacted by vehicle tires on existing unauthorized trails, maintaining the 

soil resource in a detrimental condition on the tread of these trails. Although the existing number of user 

created trail miles across the two forests is unknown and inventories are not complete, the Lava Rock and 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 253

Green Ridge areas on the Deschutes National Forest have an estimated 200 miles of unauthorized trails 

alone (See Table 94). More miles of unauthorized trail are likely to exist across the two forest area. 

For comparison, approximately 370 miles of OHV trails are currently designated across the 1,057,214 

acres of Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest lands open to motorized access off of designated routes. 

None of the alternatives analyzed under this EIS would alter the existing miles of designated trail. The 

370 miles of designated trails constitutes less than 0.0003 miles of trail per acre of forest open to 

motorized vehicles. Conservatively estimating the miles of existing user-created trails at double the 

existing designated trail miles would generate a figure of 0.001 miles of existing designated and 

unauthorized trails per acre of open Forest lands. Although it is not known at what rate new trail miles are 

being created, the percentage of the land base currently committed to detrimental conditions by this 

activity can be estimated as follows:

• 0.001 miles of existing designated and user unauthorized trail/acre of open national forest lands = 5.3 

ft of trail/acre; 

• 5.3 ft of trail/acre converts to 25 ft2/acre using an average 5 ft trail width; 

• 25 ft2/ 43,560 ft2 x 100 = .05 percent of the land base. 

Although localized conditions are likely to be more concentrated than this, the percentage of the soil 

resource committed to a detrimental condition as a result of motorized access off of designated routes and

associated unauthorized trails is very low (less than 1/10 of 1 percent) at the forest or 4th field watershed 

scale (see hydrology section).

Continued unrestricted cross-country travel under Alternative 1 would incur additional soil disturbance in 

the form of compaction of mineral soil and the displacement of surface organics where new trail routes 

were created. Detrimental soil conditions would be incurred on the trail tread of new routes if they were 

trafficked regularly and became definable trails. Although the rate at which new trail miles would be 

created is not known, the current trend of use and trail creation would be expected to continue under legal 

cross country motorized travel. However, the combination of existing unauthorized and potentially newly 

created trails would still represent a very small percentage of the Forest land base. The extent to which 

these activities would alter soil productivity at the watershed or forest scale is not known with the data 

available at this time. 

Unauthorized cross-country travel on buttes and other topographic features would continue under 

Alternative 1. Use of existing play areas would continue to occur while uncontrolled development of new 

play areas is likely to occur under this alternative. Development and use of play areas by motorized 

vehicles has been observed to detrimentally compact and displace the soil resource on a localized basis. 

Many of these areas on the Deschutes National Forest are located on cinder cones or buttes with soils

sensitive to displacement, while many hill climb features on the Ochoco National Forest have soils 

sensitive to compaction and nearby surface water features that are susceptible to receiving sediment from 

compacted and denuded soil.

Direct impacts to the soil resource from OHV play areas have been observed at levels capable of reducing 

soil productivity and denuding vegetation from a concentrated area of use Direct effects to the soil 

resource from motorized vehicles in play areas include the displacement of surface organics and mineral 

soil from the site and compaction of subsurface soil layers Indirect effects include the reduction of soil 

productivity, the loss of vegetative and organic cover on the surface, and the erosional loss and transport 

of sediment to toe slopes or streams These impacts have been shown in the literature to incur detrimental 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

254 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

soil impacts on a localized basis that are extensive enough to impact the productivity of the soil resource 

in these areas and contribute sediment to streams (Ouren, et al. 2007).

OHV activity on trails and play areas can also produce appreciable amounts of dust. The soils within the 

planning area are susceptible to producing dust due the fine ash content and/or the susceptibility of 

pumiceous material to breakdown into finer particles from motor vehicle tires. The amount of dust 

generated is directly related to the surface area of trails and play areas denuded of vegetative cover, the 

number of OHVs operating, and the surface moisture conditions at the time of activity. Dust suspended in 

the air is generally transported away from the site and deposited onto vegetation. Accumulations of dust 

on vegetation can disrupt photosynthetic and respiration processes, leading to reduced plant growth, 

reproduction, and survivorship. Fugitive dust composed of lightweight soil particles (including silt and 

clay) has the potential to impact more total area than other impacts of paved or unpaved roads (Forman et 

al. 2003). This dust can have significant effects on ecosystems (Westec, 1979) when transported onto 

vegetation and human health (Kenedi et al. 2000) when suspended in the air.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

There would be no change to the access of motorized vehicles for the purpose of dispersed camping under 

Alternative 1. Existing access roads to dispersed sites across both forests are located on both upland and 

riparian soils and can range from completely denuded, exposed natural surface roads to vegetated, “two 

track” roads. The access roads located on riparian soils are susceptible to excessive rutting when traveled 

during the late fall or early spring wet seasons. Other impacted areas associated with motorized access for 

dispersed camping include the parking and turn around areas at the dispersed sites themselves, many of 

which do not have physical bounds for defining traffic flow. Soils are generally detrimentally compacted 

from continued vehicle traffic and are unlikely to recover due to the continued use.

Direct and Indirect Effects

The majority of existing dispersed sites have access roads used by motor vehicles that would be 

maintained in a detrimental condition by continued use, especially in the high use areas identified in Table 

94. The unbounded conditions maintained under this alternative often result in heavily denuded impacts 

immediately adjacent to stream channels and water bodies where the majority of dispersed campsites are 

located. Detrimental soil conditions are likely to persist and even expand in dispersed camping areas 

adjacent to streams and other water bodies under the No Action alternative.

New areas of the soil resource could be impacted under this alternative as users continued to create new 

access for dispersed camping. Dispersed camping and other vehicle use for access are assumed to increase 

in the future under this analysis as state and local community populations continue to grow. High use 

holiday and hunting weekends often exceed campground capacities and generally push additional 

campers to disperse camp. It is assumed that this trend would increase the use of existing sites and that 

additional dispersed sites across the two forest area are likely to be created under this alternative. This 

trend would incur additional impacts to the soil resource where existing sites are expanded or new sites 

are created. These impacts are likely to adversely affect the soil resource on a localized level if the newly 

created sites are desirable and functional for camping and receive continued use. Although the rate and 

extent of this impact is not predictable, the general trend rate for this increase is expected to be relatively 

low.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 255

Effects Common to Alternatives 2 and 3 

In general, the implementation of the action alternatives would have a positive effect on the soil resource 

by reducing the amount of area on which motorized vehicle traffic would be designated. Although no 

active restoration of areas removed from motorized travel is proposed by this decision, some level of 

recovery to the soil resource in these areas is expected over time due to freeze-thaw processes that 

promote improvements to soil strength and the re-growth of vegetation. 

Prohibiting cross-country travel and motorized access for dispersed camping outside of 300 feet of an 

open designated route is likely to decrease the extent of the soil resource being maintained in a 

detrimental condition across the two forest area. The following changes would result in positive effects to 

the extent of detrimental conditions on the soil resource.

• The restriction of motorized travel off designated routes would limit the formation of additional usercreated trails and begin to allow existing user-created trails (that were not designated for long term 

use under site specific trail projects) to recover from impacted conditions. 

• The restriction of motorized access for dispersed camping to existing designated or defined sites in 

the high use dispersed camping areas listed in Table 94, as well as in the newly designated Special 

Provision riparian areas, would decrease the extent of the soil resource impacted by motorized 

vehicles in these areas. 

• The proposed 30 foot setback from stream channels would have a beneficial effect, as it would 

decrease the extent of impacted soil susceptible to contributing sediment to streams, although areas of 

new impact on the soil resource could develop as users create new parking areas to compensate for 

the change.

• These alternatives would maintain or slightly reduce the amount of area impacted within 300 feet of 

designated routes by limiting cross-country travel to the sole purpose of ingress and egress to disperse 

camp. These General Provision areas also limit access to the season of use for the road and the type of 

vehicles allowed on the road. This may limit or restrict OHV use in some areas that would be allowed 

under Alternative 1.

Cross-country travel

Implementation of Alternative 2 or 3 would indirectly affect the soil resource by reducing the amount of 

land open to motorized vehicle traffic. Approximately 625,430 acres on the Deschutes National Forest 

and 431,784 acres on the Ochoco National Forest currently open for year round or seasonal motorized 

access off of designated routes would have traffic restricted to designated routes only. The removal of 

unauthorized motorized vehicle traffic from these areas would generally have a beneficial effect on the 

soil resource by eliminating the physical disturbance that currently maintains a detrimental level of 

compaction on continually trafficked areas, or that could increase the extent of these conditions across the 

landscape by creating new trails. 

Sites that are currently impacted as a result of cross-country travel would be expected to slowly recover 

over time at a rate dependent on the productivity, moisture level and extent of impact on the site. Most 

areas that have impacts from cross-country travel are likely to see steady vegetative recovery after 

motorized vehicle traffic is removed. Impacted areas located on riparian soils are likely to have a quicker 

recovery of vegetation than those on upland soils due to higher moisture regimes and general productivity. 

The estimated recovery rates on sites that would no longer have impacts from cross-country travel for 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

256 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

soils are included in the natural resources recovery rates in the analysis assumptions section at the 

beginning of Chapter 3. 

Given time, local soils are capable of recovering from compaction via freeze-thaw, rooting and ground 

burrowing mechanisms Compacted areas from railroad era logging operations have been observed to have 

recovered to soil strengths that are only slightly elevated from natural levels some sixty plus years after 

they were impacted, and have been observed to support varying amounts of native herbaceous and shrub 

vegetation under these conditions. Active restoration of these sites is not proposed under this decision; 

however, there would be a slow recovery of detrimental compaction in the soil profile and a return of 

vegetation on most sites if motorized traffic was discontinued. 

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Alternative 2 would change conditions for motorized access for dispersed camping on approximately 

105,638 acres of Special Provision areas on riparian corridors and uplands across both forests (51,044 ac 

on the Deschutes National Forest; 54,594 ac on the Ochoco National Forest). Alternative 3 increases the 

amount of Special Provision riparian and upland acreage to approximately 529,057 acres, including 

404,730 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and 124,327 acres on the Ochoco National Forest. This 

reflects the change of all acres managed as General Provision restrictions under Alternative 2 to Special 

Provision restrictions under Alternative 3.

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a positive effect on the soil resource by restricting motorized access for 

dispersed camping to within 300 feet of the centerline of all designated routes under either Special 

Provision upland or General Provision restrictions. This restriction could be reasonably expected to 

reduce the creation and/or use of dispersed sites greater than 300 feet from an open road. Although this 

restriction would not affect where dispersed camping would be allowed within 300 feet of designated 

roads in Alternative 2 General Provision areas, it would allow for the natural recovery of existing sites 

greater than 300 feet from roads from the impacts of motorized access and dispersed camping under both 

alternatives. Although no active restoration of currently impacted areas that would be restricted to 

motorized travel under this decision is proposed, some level of soil resource recovery is expected over 

time due to freeze-thaw processes that promote improvements to soil strength and the re-growth of 

vegetation. 

Special Provisions: Alternatives 2 and 3 would both benefit the soil resource within the Special Provision 

riparian areas by pulling back vehicular traffic and parking for dispersed camping at least 30 feet from 

stream banks. This change is estimated to reduce the extent of impact associated with the dispersed sites 

along one third of the stream edge. As a result, effective cover capable of reducing raindrop impacts and 

filtering overland flows is expected to increase as riparian soils within the 30 foot setback recover. This 

would be expected to reduce erosion and sediment production from these sites during storm events. 

Despite the Special Provision 30 foot vehicle setbacks from stream channels, most sites would likely 

remain susceptible to some level of erosion and sediment production. Although the overall amount of the 

soil resource impacted within these sites is assumed to decrease as a result of the setbacks, compacted and 

denuded areas with the potential to convey overland flows and any associated sediment to stream 

channels or water bodies adjacent to the site would remain. Soils located within the vehicle setback 

buffers are not expected to fully recover from current impacts due to continued foot and tent camping use. 

However, there is likely to be enough reduction of impacts to allow for some natural improvement of 

compacted conditions over time and the recovery of vegetative growth on portions of the area. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 257

Additional adverse effects to the soil resource in the form of compaction could be incurred adjacent to 

existing sites as new parking areas are created to compensate for the vehicle setback restrictions. These 

areas would be further from the stream channels and likely to contribute a lower percentage of eroded soil 

to the stream channels than the existing areas of impact adjacent to the stream that they would replace.

Alternatives 2 and 3 would both have a positive effect on the soil resource in areas restricting motorized 

access for dispersed camping under Special Provision restrictions within upland or riparian areas. 

Motorized travel would be limited in these areas to designated routes for the sole purpose of accessing 

existing, designated or defined disperse sites. This restriction would effectively limit motorized vehicles 

from creating new access routes or dispersed sites within 300 feet of designated routes or within 100 feet 

of streams, lakes and wetlands. As a result, existing levels of impact to the soil resource would not be 

expected to increase in the areas designated as Special Provision under either alternative. This reduction 

of impacts would occur over approximately 423,419 more acres under Alternative 3 than Alternative 2.

Alternative 2

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Alternative 2 includes approximately 353,686 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and 69,733 acres on 

the Ochoco National Forest in which motorized access for dispersed camping would be managed under 

General Provisions. Motorized access for the purpose of dispersed camping within areas designated as 

General Provision would be allowed anywhere within 300 feet of designated roads, including areas of the 

soil resource that are currently not impacted by vehicle traffic. Approximately 423,419 acres of Forest 

land within 300 feet of system roads would be susceptible to compaction and disturbance of the soil 

resource from vehicle traffic and parking for dispersed camping. As a result, areas without vegetation 

capable of inhibiting travel near desirable destinations would be susceptible to new vehicular traffic 

capable of crushing vegetation and compacting the soil.

Although the potential extent of impacts from motorized access for dispersed camping under General 

Provision restrictions is not known, the rate at which new access from vehicles would occur is expected to 

be relatively low. Newly compacted conditions would be expected to be localized and not likely increase 

detrimental soil conditions to levels capable of altering the productivity of the soil outside the 

immediately impacted area. Current dispersed use across the two forests appears to generally use existing 

routes for access and camping. Some areas, such as the East Fort Rock OHV trail system, have had newly 

created sites observed within them over the past few years as a result of increased use during high volume 

weekends. This trend is likely to continue where the topography and vegetation do not appreciably inhibit 

travel and parking. 

Alternative 3

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

All areas designated with General Provision restrictions under Alternative 2 would have Special Provision

restrictions under Alternative 3. The majority of these acres are located on upland soils across the two 

Forest planning area. This designation would increase the area in which motorized access for the purpose 

of dispersed camping would be restricted to access only existing, designated or defined sites by 

approximately 353,686 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and 69,733 acres on the Ochoco National 

Forest. This would reduce the susceptibility of 423,419 acres across the two Forests to potential effects on 

the soil resource from unrestricted motorized access for dispersed camping. This would indirectly benefit 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

258 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

the soil resource by reducing the possibility of newly created motorized vehicle access, parking spots and 

dispersed sites within 300 feet of designated roads across all of these acres.

Native Vegetation 

Executive Summary

There are no effects to threatened or endangered plant species or habitat from any of the actions proposed 

in this EIS because there are no federally listed threatened or endangered plant species or habitats 

documented or suspected on the Forests or Grassland. Therefore, activities proposed in the alternatives 

would have no effect on federally listed plant species. 

Alternative 1 (no-action) provides the least protection to native plants and native plant habitats, including 

special habitats and sensitive and other rare and uncommon plants, because more (often the majority of) 

acres are open to cross-country travel. Alternative 1 allows unrestricted motorized access for dispersed 

camping with no Special Provisions.

Alternatives 2 (proposed action) and 3 substantially reduce the amount of acres open for cross-country 

travel. This would increase the protection for native plants and native plant habitats, including special 

habitats and sensitive and other rare and uncommon plants, over current conditions (Alternative 1). 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a beneficial impact on interior areas on the Forests and Grassland.

Within areas open for motorized access for dispersed camping, Alternatives 2 and 3 restrict access to 

within 300feet of the centerline of roads. Sensitive areas have been identified and, in these areas, 

motorized access for dispersed camping is confined to existing, designated, or defined sites (i.e., Special 

Provisions). Some upland areas in Alternative 2 are open for motorized access for dispersed camping 

anywhere within the 300feet area (no Special Provisions). Alternative 3 provides the highest level of 

protection for native plant habitats because all motorized access for dispersed camping would be confined 

to existing, designated, or defined sites. This would reduce damage to native vegetation adjacent to 

dispersed campsites.

In both Alternatives 2 and 3, motorized access for dispersed camping would not be allowed within 30 

feet of water bodies (e.g., streams, creeks, rivers, wetlands, lakes). This would have a beneficial effect on 

riparian vegetation.

Affected Environment

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland contain a wide 

variety of plant species and communities due to varying elevation and precipitation zones that occur 

within Central Oregon. The project area ranges from high elevation alpine habitats in the Cascade 

Mountains that receive 120 inches of annual precipitation to desert habitats that receive about 8-10 inches 

of annual precipitation. 

Native Plants and Native Plant Habitats

Plant communities can be classified by a variety of factors such as vegetation structure, site moisture, and 

overstory and understory plant species composition. Similar plant associations are aggregated and 

grouped by their climax species, site potential, and moisture similarities into plant association groups. 

Grouping plant associations helps us predict, compare and analyze potential disturbance patterns and how 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 259

the vegetation will respond to these disturbances. Plant association groups are used in this analysis to 

evaluate the effects of the alternatives on native plants and native plant habitats.

Vegetation on the Forests and Grassland varies with elevation and moisture gradients from west to east. 

For example, on the Deschutes National Forest, elevation, precipitation, and distance from the crest of the 

Cascade Mountains greatly influence vegetation patterns. At 10,000 feet elevation, the alpine peak of 

South Sister receives 145 inches of precipitation. Heading east from the Cascade crest, the amount of 

precipitation rapidly decreases, to 12 inches in the town of Bend. 

Deschutes National Forest

Vegetation on the Deschutes National Forest includes high elevation, high precipitation sites where 

whitebark pine, subalpine fir, and mountain hemlock occur. These areas are very cold with abundant 

snowpack and plants are adapted to a short growing season. At mid-elevations, mixed conifer plant 

communities occur where greater precipitation and soil moisture allow for a wide variety of coniferous 

trees. Depending on site conditions, trees may be Douglas-fir, white fir, incense cedar, lodgepole pine, 

ponderosa pine, western larch, western white pine, sugar pine, Pacific silver fir and Shasta red fir. At the 

footslopes of the Cascade Mountains and further east, conditions are relatively warm and dry and more 

moisture-limited. Drought-adapted species – ponderosa pine and juniper – occur in this zone. 

Table 95 lists the 22 plant association groups currently mapped on the Deschutes National Forest, and 

provides the acres and percentage of the total for each group. Many of the plant associations grouped to 

form plant association groups are those described in Volland (1985). Since this mapping occurred, a new 

plant association guide has been completed (Simpson 2007); however, the newly revised plant 

associations are not yet mapped and available on GIS.

Table 95. Total acres of mapped plant association groups and their relative percentages that occur on the 

Deschutes National Forest. 

Plant Association Group Deschutes

Acres

Deschutes

% of Total

Alpine Dry 506 0.03

Alpine Meadow 3,732 0.2

Alpine shrub 184 0.01

Cinder 6,972 0.4

Glacier 937 0.05

Hardwood 494 0.03

Juniper Woodlands 2,911 0.1

Lava 27,514 1.4

Lodgepole Pine Dry 496,991 25

Lodgepole Pine Wet 70,352 3.6

Meadow 7,678 0.4

Mesic Shrub 10,430 0.5

Mixed Conifer Dry 304,180 16

Mixed Conifer Wet 94,565 5

Mountain Hemlock Dry 191,496 10

Ponderosa Pine Dry 574,852 29

Ponderosa Pine Wet 75,787 4

Riparian 8,890 0.5

Rock 12,886 1

Water 35,695 2

White Bark Pine Dry 145 0.01

Xeric Shrublands 28,227 1

Note: See Appendix B-7.2 for a description of each plant association group. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

260 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 96 lists the 9 plant association groups found on the Ochoco NF and Grassland, and provides the 

number of acres and percentage of each. 

Table 96. Total acres of mapped plant association groups and their relative percentages that occur on the 

Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland

Plant Association Group Ochoco/ CRNG

Acres

Ochoco/ CRNG

% of Total

Douglas Fir 118,963 11

Dry Grand Fir 217,487 21

Dry Ponderosa Pine 107,934 10

Juniper Steppe 44,530 4

Juniper Woodland 248,208 24

Mesic Ponderosa Pine 86,835 8

Moist Grand Fir 67,400 7

Nonforest 141,686 14

Subalpine Fir 3,859 0.4

Note: See Appendix B-7.2 for a description of each plant association group. 

Special Habitats on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests

Special habitats are areas which sustain unusual and/or particularly rich biological diversity. These 

habitats have a high probability of supporting rare species. All non-forest and riparian habitats are often 

treated as special habitats because they encompass such a small percentage of the land base in forested 

regions but have a disproportionate value in the conservation of biological diversity (USDA Forest 

Service 1996a). For example, the riparian plant association group on the Deschutes comprises only one 

percent of the total plant association groups (Table 95) yet riparian habitats are abundantly used for 

recreation such as camping, fishing and hiking.

The texture and pattern of biodiversity can be examined at many different scales, ranging from global to 

microscopic. At the landscape scale, the coarse scale of plant association group patterns miss unusual 

small scale habitats such as small non-forested habitats, or riparian seeps. At an even finer scale, certain 

structural features within habitats, such as hard snags or root wads, provide habitat for rare species of 

fungi, bryophytes, and lichens. The distribution of plant species may be determined by broad climatic 

patterns or by fine variation in the drainage of a miniature wetland (Dimling and McCain 1992).

This analysis focuses on the following special habitats: wetlands, riparian, meadows (wet, moist, and 

dry), hardwoods (aspen stands and cottonwood bottomlands), and scablands. These habitats are discussed 

below: 

Hardwoods – This type includes quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides) stands and cottonwood (Populus 

trichocarpa) bottomlands. These deciduous hardwood trees provide a variety of important ecological 

functions, diversification of landscape patterns, and habitat for many other species (USDA Forest Service 

1997). Riparian communities made up of these species are extremely diverse in plant life since they 

initiate forest succession, and thus provide great structural diversity. Hydrologically, these deciduous 

plant communities provide excellent stability to stream banks and soil surfaces. Their deep and spreading 

root systems can resist flood pressures and slow water velocity. They provide shade to help maintain 

stream temperatures, and abundant leaf shedding in the fall increases soil fertility. 

Black cottonwood habitat, which occurs along stream courses up to approximately 4,500 feet in elevation, 

is a short-lived species (100 to 120 years on the average) (USDA Forest Service 1997). Stands develop 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 261

following flood deposition and scour on floodplains in broad or open alluvial valleys. Regeneration may 

be by seed, stump sprouting, and rooted cutting. Aspen grows in self-perpetuating clones in areas of 

locally high moisture such as meadows, seeps, and streamsides.

Aspen and cottonwood are short-lived, early seral species that rely on disturbance for establishment. 

Black cottonwood has been declining due to conversion of floodplain vegetation to agricultural uses, 

changes in stream systems (confining streams into a single channel), over browsing by livestock, elk and 

deer, and conifer encroachment (USDA Forest Service 1997). Quaking aspen is declining as the result of 

conifer encroachment and increasing density, over-browsing by livestock, deer and elk, and loss of habitat 

where the water table has dropped due to stream downcutting.

Meadows (dry, moist and wet) – Meadow communities are found in areas where ground water is higher 

than that found on the surrounding upland sites, such as a spring. They can also include perched water 

table areas within stream communities. Meadow communities include moist meadows, where moisture is 

available in the rooting-zone during the growing season, but drops 1-3 feet in the fall, and wet meadows, 

where available water is at or near the surface all season long (Hall 1998). Dry meadows have no standing 

water and dry out completely in the summer (Simpson 2009, personal communication).

Riparian – Riparian areas are defined as a geographic area containing an aquatic ecosystem and the 

upland areas that directly affect it. Plant communities within these areas are influenced by stream 

morphology and disturbance regimes, and support a diversity of vegetation. The herbaceous vegetation 

within riparian areas is often dominated by shrubs, forbs, grasses, and sedges. There is usually a narrow 

band of moisture-loving plants directly adjacent to the stream, such as sedges and bulrushes. 

Riparian habitats often incur a disproportionate amount of human activity (i.e., these habitats are often 

used more by people than upland habitats). Roads and trails passing through or parallel to riparian areas 

can affect the vegetation. Many roads are located along streams, resulting in direct loss of these habitats 

when built in riparian zones. Streams tend to be desirable places to camp and recreate, which can result in 

trampling of vegetation.

Scabland – These non-forested habitats have rocky, shallow soils and are commonly found on 

topographically high sites. Dominated by bunchgrasses and forbs, these sites are particularly exposed to 

summer heat and dryness, winter cold, and spring frost-heaving. 

Wetlands – Wetlands have one or more of the following three attributes: 1) at least periodically the 

substrate is dominated by facultative or obligate hydrophytes (i.e., water-loving plants); 2) the substrate is 

predominantly hydric soil; and 3) the substrate is non-soil and is either saturated with or covered by 

shallow water at some time during the growing season (Kovalchik 1987). Wetlands include:

• Ponds – a body of standing water and its associated edge of water-tolerant vegetation. The pond 

may be permanent or seasonal.

• Bogs and fens – permanently wet areas dominated by sphagnum and other acid-tolerant plants.

• Swamps – permanently wet area, often shaded by the canopy.

Research Natural Areas

Research natural areas are part of a national network of ecological areas designated in perpetuity for 

research and education and/or to maintain biological diversity on National Forest System lands (Forest 

Service Manual 4063). Research natural areas are principally for non-manipulative research, observation, 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

262 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

and study, and may also assist in implementing provisions for special acts, such as the Endangered 

Species Act of 1973 and the monitoring provisions of the National Forest Management Act of 1976 

(Forest Service Manual 4063). Research natural areas are managed such that natural physical or 

biological processes are allowed to prevail without human intervention. According to FSM 4063.3 

standards, management of a research natural area must support and promote the basic objectives and 

purposes of establishing the area. 

Overall objectives for research natural areas are to maintain a wide spectrum of high quality 

representative areas of the major forms of variability found in forests, shrublands, grasslands, alpine, and 

natural situations, to preserve and maintain genetic diversity, and to protect against human-caused 

environmental disruptions. These areas serve as reference areas for the study of natural ecological 

processes including disturbance, and serve as baseline areas for measuring long-term ecological changes.

Each research natural area contains representative or unique natural features in a relatively undisturbed 

condition. The designation of these areas provides long-term protection and recognition of their natural 

values for research and baseline ecological study, observation, and conservation of biological diversity. 

Table 97 lists the research natural areas on the Forests and Grassland.

Table 97. Research natural areas on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National 

Grassland

Research Natural Area Objectives/features for the research natural area

Deschutes National Forest

Cache Mountain Lakes at mid-elevation in mixed conifer forest; white fir-Pacific silver 

fir/snowberry plant association

Headwaters of the Cultus Large upwelling cold springs; lodgepole pine/mixed conifer/Engelmann 

spruce

Katsuk Butte High elevation cinder cone. Mostly mountain hemlock forest.

Many Lakes Bogs, subalpine permanent ponds and bogs. Lodgepole pine and 

mountain hemlock forests.

Metolius Ponderosa pine/bitterbrush and ponderosa pine/Douglas-fir/green 

manzanita forests.

Mokst Butte Forested cinder cone with white fir forest, recent lava flow. Lava flow, 

mixed conifer forest.

Pringle Falls

Topographically related mosaic of lodgepole pine and ponderosa pine on 

Mt. Mazama pumice soils. Ponderosa pine-white fir/green manzanita 

and lodgepole pine/bitterbrush plant association. Fire in lodgepole pine 

zone.

Torrey-Charlton Small lakes and ponds. Mountain hemlock forest.

Wechee Butte Entirely forested cinder cone.

Ochoco National Forest

Ochoco Divide Ponderosa pine-Douglas-fir and Grand fir-western larch-Douglas-fir plant 

associations.

Crooked River National Grassland

Haystack Butte Western juniper/big sagebrush

The Island Western juniper/big sagebrush/bluebunch wheatgrass and western 

juniper/big sage-bitterbrush community.

There would be no change to the management of research natural areas, regardless of the chosen 

alternative. These areas are not open for motorized cross-country travel or motorized access to dispersed 

camping. Therefore, there would be no effects to these areas and they are not analyzed further.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 263

Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Plant Species

The Forest Service is directed to manage habitats for all existing native and desired non-native plants, 

fish, and wildlife species in order to maintain viable populations of such species. This direction comes 

from Forest Service Manual section 2600 (Forest Service, WO Amendment 2600-95-7) and stems from 

direction provided by the Endangered Species Act. Forest Service Manual (FSM) 2670.5 defines sensitive 

species as those plant and animal species identified by a Regional Forester for which population viability 

is a concern, as evidenced by significant current or predicted downward trends in population numbers, 

density, or habitat capability that would reduce a species existing distribution. In FSM 2670.22, 

management direction for sensitive species is, in part, to ensure that species do not become threatened or 

endangered because of Forest Service actions, and to maintain viable populations of all native species. A 

viable population consists of a number of individuals adequately distributed throughout their range 

necessary to perpetuate the existence of the species in natural, genetically stable, self-sustaining 

populations. 

A biological evaluation is conducted to review Forest Service programs and activities for possible effects 

on sensitive plant species. The biological evaluation process consists of a prefield review of available 

information to identify known or potentially occurring sensitive plant species, a field reconnaissance of 

the proposed project and an evaluation of potential effects to these species from the proposed project. If 

there would be potential adverse effects or conflicts, then the project is evaluated to see if it can be 

revised so that adverse effects do not occur.

There are no known occurrences of federally listed endangered or threatened plants within the Deschutes 

and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland. There is no habitat recognized as 

essential for listed or proposed plant species recovery under the Endangered Species Act. Because there 

are no threatened or endangered plant species on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and 

Crooked River National Grassland, this assessment will refer only to “sensitive” species.

Table 98 summarizes the sensitive plant species that are either documented or suspected to occur on the 

Forests and Grassland. The Deschutes National Forest has a total of 58 species on its Sensitive Plant List:

36 vascular plants (16 are documented to occur), 14 bryophytes (five are documented), and five fungi 

(four are documented). The Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland have 39 

species on its Sensitive Plant List: 34 vascular plants (12 are documented), three bryophytes (one is 

documented), two lichens (both are documented) and no fungi. Detailed information about the species is 

described in the biological evaluation (Appendix B-7.2.2). Some sensitive plant species have habitats on 

both Forests and Grassland. In total, there are 77 sensitive plants that are documented or suspected to 

occur on one or both of the Forests and Grassland (54 vascular plants, 15 bryophytes, three lichens, and 

five fungi).

Table 98. Sensitive plant species documented (D) or suspected (S) to occur on the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland 

Scientific Name Common Name DESa OCH & CRNG

Vascular Plants

Achnatherum hendersonii Henderson’s needlegrass D

(33 sites/217 ac.)

Achnatherum wallowaensis Wallowa needlegrass D

(5 sites/14 ac.)

Agoseris elata tall agoseris D

(42 sites/985 ac.)

Arabis suffrutescens var. 

horizontalis horizontal woody rockcress S 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

264 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Scientific Name Common Name DESa OCH & CRNG

Arnica viscosa Mt. Shasta arnica D

(1 site/0.7 ac.)

Astragalus diaphanus var. 

diurnus transparent milkvetch S 

Astragalus peckii Peck’s milkvetch D

(5 sites/50 ac.) S 

Astragalus tegetarioides Deschutes milkvetch D

(1 site/11 ac.)

Botrychium ascendens Trianglelobe moonwort D

(3 sites/0.5 ac.)

Botrychium crenulatum scalloped moonwort D

(22 sites/29 ac.)

Botrychium minganense Mingan moonwort D

(10 sites/8.8 ac.)

Botrychium montanum mountain moonwort D

(12 sites/3.8 ac.)

Botrychium paradoxum peculiar moonwort D

(1 site/0.2 ac.)

Botrychium pumicola pumice grape-fern D

(320 sites/3,325 ac.)

Calamagrostis breweri Brewer’s reedgrass S

Calochortus longebarbatus var. 

peckii Peck’s mariposa lily D(166 sites/2,963 ac.)

Camissonia pygmaea dwarf suncap S

Carex abrupta abrupt-beaked sedge S S

Carex capitata capitate sedge D

(1 site/0.1 ac.)

Carex diandra lesser panicled sedge S S

Carex lasiocarpa var. americana slender sedge D

(1 site/0.3 ac.) S 

Carex livida livid sedge S

Carex retrorsa retrorse sedge S S

Carex vernacula native sedge S

Castilleja chlorotica green-tinged paintbrush D

(152 sites/1,124 ac.

Cheilanthes feei Fee’s lip-fern S S

Collomia mazama Mt. Mazama collomia S

Cyperus acuminatus short-pointed cyperus D

(2 sites/1 ac.)

Cyperus lupulinus ssp. lupulinus A cyperus S S

Elatine brachysperma short-seeded waterwort S S

Eleocharis bolanderi Bolander’s spikerush S

Eriogonum cusickii Cusick’s buckwheat S

Eucephalus gormanii (formerly 

Aster gormanii) Gorman’s aster S 

Gentiana newberryi var. 

newberryi alpine gentian D(13 sites/51 ac.)

Heliotropium curassavicum salt heliotrope S S

Lipocarpha aristulata aristulate lipocarpha S S

Lobelia dortmanna Dortmann’s cardinalflower D

(1 site/2 ac.)

Lomatium ochocense Ochoco lomatium D

(1 site/0.6 ac.)

Lycopodiella inundata inundated clubmoss D

(4 sites/7 ac.)

Lycopodium complanatum ground cedar S

Mimulus evanescens Disappearing monkeyflower S

Muhlenbergia minutissima annual dropseed S S

Ophioglossum pusillum northern adderstongue S
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 265

Scientific Name Common Name DESa OCH & CRNG

Penstemon peckii Peck’s penstemon D

(87 sites/4,903 ac.)

D

(3 sites/13 ac.)

Pilularia americana American pillwort S 

Potamogeton diversifolius Rafinesque’s pondweed S S 

Rorippa columbiae Columbia yellowcress D

(1 site/0.1 ac.) S 

Rotala ramosior lowland toothcup S S

Salix wolfii wolf’s willow S

Scheuchzeria palustris ssp. 

americana rannoch-rush D(1 site/ 15 ac.)

Schoenoplectus subterminalis

(formerly Scirpus subterminalis) swaying bulrush D(1 site/ 0.1 ac.)

Talinum spinescens Spinescent fameflower S

Thelypodium eucosmum world thelypody S

Utricularia minor lesser bladderwort D

(6 sites/0.4 ac.) S 

Bryophytes

Barbilophozia lycopodioides liverwort S

Brachydontium olympicum moss S

Chiloscyphus gemmiparus liverwort S

Conostomum tetragonum moss S

Helodium blandowii moss

D

(2 sites/0.1 ac.)

D

(1 site/0.2 ac.)

Polytrichium sphaerothecium moss S

Pseudocalliergon trifarium moss S

Rhizomnium nudum rhizomnium moss D

(3 sites/ 0.2 ac.)

Schistostega pennata luminous moss D

(3 sites/20 ac.)

Scouleria marginata marginate splashzone moss S S

Splachnum ampullaceum moss S

Tomentypnum nitens moss

D

(18 sites/14 ac.)

Tortula mucronifolia moss S

Trematodon boasii moss S

Tritomaria exsectiformis liverwort D

(11 sites/0.7 ac.)

Lichens

Dermatocarpon. luridum silverskin lichen D

(3 sites/0.2 ac.)

D

(7 sites/3 ac.)

Leptogium cyanescens skin lichen S

Texosporium sancti-jacobi lichen S D

(2 sites/0.2 ac.)

Fungi

Alpova alexsmithii fungus D

(2 sites/ 0.1 ac.)

Gastroboletus vividus fungus S

Helvella crassitunicata fungus D

(1 site/ 0.1 ac.)

Hygrophorus caeruleus fungus D

(3 sites/ 0.2 ac.)

Ramaria amyloidea fungus D

(1 site/ 0.1 ac.)

a - For documented species, the total number of mapped sites and approximate acres are provided.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

266 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Other Rare or Uncommon Plant Species

In addition to sensitive plant species, there are other rare or uncommon vascular plants, fungi, lichens and 

bryophytes that occur on the Deschutes National Forest within the Northwest Forest Plan area (Table 99). 

The Forest has chosen to ensure populations for these rare or uncommon species are not jeopardized. 

These species are considered in this analysis.

Table 99. Other rare or uncommon plant species documented on the Deschutes National Forest

Scientific Name Lifeform District

(No. of Sites)

Chaenotheca subroscida Lichen Crescent (1)

Choiromyces alveolatus Fungus Sisters (1)

Clavariadelphus truncatus Fungus Bend/Ft. Rock (1); Crescent (1)

Cypripedium montanum Vascular Plant Sisters (8)

Elaphomyces anthracinus Fungus Sisters (1)

Elaphomyces subviscidus Fungus Bend/Ft. Rock (1)

Gastroboletus ruber Fungus Sisters (1)

Gautieria magnicellaris Fungus Sisters (1)

Gymnomyces abietis Fungus Bend/Ft. Rock (1); Sisters (2)

Hydnotrya inordinata Fungus Bend/Ft. Rock (1)

Leptogium teretiusculum Lichen Sisters (1)

Polyozellus multiplex Fungus Bend/Ft. Rock (3)

Ramaria coulterae Fungus Sisters (2)

Ramaria rubripermanens Fungus Crescent (1)

Rhizopogon atroviolaceus Fungus Bend/Ft. Rock (1); Crescent (1)

Rhizopogon evadens var. subalpinus Fungus Bend/Ft. Rock (1); Sisters (1)

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Alternative 1

Native Plants and Native Plant Habitats

Direct impacts on vegetation caused by vehicles include crushing of foliage, root systems, and seedlings 

(Wilshire et al. 1978a). Plant foliage and stems can be damaged and plants uprooted by vehicles, so that 

actual plant damage may occur over an area much larger than the track width. Indirect effects of vehicles 

on vegetation include undercutting of root systems as vehicle paths are enlarged by erosion (Wilshire 

1978a). 

Vehicular routes with dirt surfaces can also be a significant source of dust (Brooks and Lair 2005) that can 

affect vegetation in the vicinity of the roads. Plant processes that may be affected by dust include 

photosynthesis, respiration, and transpiration due to blocked stomata and cell destruction, all of which 

could result in reduced plant growth, size, productivity, and/or survivorship (Ouren et al. 2007).

Impacts of off-highway vehicle activities include reduced vegetation cover and growth rates, and 

increased potential for non-native grasses and pioneering species to become established, thus altering 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 267

plant communities (Ouren et al. 2007). In contrast, plant communities in undisturbed sites are dominated 

by native plants, invasive species are not increasing, plant growth and reproduction are vigorous, ageclass structures are appropriate to the species, and canopy cover and vertical structure are adequate for 

dispersing the energy of precipitation runoff and promoting water infiltration (Ouren et al. 2007). 

When soils are severely disturbed, vegetation cover can be reduced significantly and plant growth can be 

impaired (reviewed in Ouren et al. 2007). Davidson and Fox (1974) reported significant loss of 

herbaceous vegetation from motorcycle activity. Bolling and Walker (2000) reported that track roads had 

significantly lower total vegetative cover than control areas. Total plant density and cover were 

significantly lower in roads than in controls in the Mojave Desert, and long-lived plant species were 

greatly reduced in disturbed areas compared to controls (Prose et al. 1987).

Relatively low recreational traffic intensities cause a significant drop in plant cover, plant height, species 

richness and species diversity, leading to an increase in soil compaction and a decrease in soil organic 

matter and moisture content (reviewed in Kutiel et al. 2000). Kutiel et al. (2000) studied the response of 

soil and annual plants to various intensities of short-duration pedestrian and motorcycle traffic, and found 

that motorcycle passage had an immediate significant impact on annual plants at all traffic intensities.

Secondary effects from disturbances, such as off-highway vehicle use, include the proliferation of exotic 

plant species and a higher frequency of fire (Lovich and Bainbridge 1999). Effects of these impacts 

include alteration or destruction of macro- and micro-vegetation elements, establishment of annual plant 

communities dominated by exotic species, destruction of soil stabilizers, soil compaction, and increased 

erosion.

Natural recovery rates following disturbance depend on the nature and severity of the impact but are 

generally very slow. Recovery to pre-disturbance plant cover and biomass may take 50-300 years, while 

complete ecosystem recovery may require over 3,000 years (Lovich and Bainbridge 1999). Belnap (1995) 

discusses how desert soils may recover slowly from surface disturbances, resulting in increased 

vulnerability to desertification. As a result, recovery from compaction and decreased soil stability is 

estimated to take several hundred years. The nitrogen fixation capability of soil requires at least 50 years 

to recover (Belnap 1995).

Off-road vehicle activity has been shown to greatly increase soil compaction in areas of intense traffic 

(Adams et al. 1982a). Soil characteristics, particularly soil compaction, play important roles in the 

distribution, abundance, growth rate, reproduction, and size of plants. Soil compaction results in reduced 

water infiltration. As a result, overall plant productivity may be diminished (Ouren et al. 2007). When 

soils are severely disturbed, vegetation cover can be reduced significantly and growth can be impaired 

(Adams et al. 1982a; Bolling and Walker 2000, Prose et al. 1987, Webb and Wilshire 1980).

Even a few passes by vehicles can cause significant changes in soil properties (Ouren et al. 2007). Adams 

et al. (1982a) found reduced cover of desert annuals in tracks created by as few as one (on wet loamy 

sand) to 20 (on dry loamy sand) vehicle passes; the reduction in cover, however, was not due to fewer 

plants, but to smaller plant sizes. With tracks made by one, three, 10, and 20 vehicle passes, Adams et al. 

(1982a) found that annuals with large taproots decreased, whereas there was significantly greater cover of 

a non-native, fibrous-rooted grass. The fibrous root system allows for easier germination and root growth 

than large-taprooted species. Bolling and Walker (2000) found that there were many small individuals of 

creosote bush (Larrea tridentata), but larger plants were few or absent in OHV routes, whereas, in control 

plots, there were more large plants and fewer small ones. Reduced plant sizes are typical where the extent 

of soil compaction inhibits their roots from penetrating to deeper soil levels (Ouren et al. 2007). Overall, 

the extent of immediate effects increases with the frequency of OHV passes. For example, Webb (1982) 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

268 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

found that after a single pass, annual plants on an OHV route remained intact, but most were destroyed 

after 10 passes.

Wilshire et al. (1978b) found physical and chemical impacts reduce the land’s capability of restoring its 

vegetative cover. Both the loss of plant cover and the physical changes caused by vehicles promote 

erosion. Their study determined that erosion rates significantly exceeded Federal and local standards.

Road cuts and the associated traffic have detrimental effects on soil nutrients and microbially-controlled 

processes (e.g., Nitrogen cycling) (Webb and Wilshire 1980). These changes can indirectly affect plant 

community development for many years after the disturbance. Knapp (1991) found significant differences 

in plant community structure between disturbed and undisturbed sites 77 years following disturbance on 

abandoned roadways in mining towns in Montana. The degree of soil compaction may be particularly 

important for determining plant succession (Knapp 1991).

Soil disturbance and compaction increase the potential for invasive, non-native annuals and other early 

successional plants to establish rapidly in OHV routes, whereas native perennials may require at least 5 

years to become established (Ouren et al. 2007). Soil compaction was significant in most disturbed areas 

40 years after military camps were abandoned (Prose et al. 1987). Other studies reported that various 

desert soils remained compacted for similar or longer periods of time, probably because animal burrowing 

and plant root growth are the primary agents of soil-loosening in low desert valleys but animals and plants 

have difficulty displacing highly-compacted soils (Prose et al. 1987). 

Indirect effects can be invasion by invasive plants into disturbed areas. In general, grasslands, riparian 

areas, and relatively dry, open forests are more susceptible to invasion than are dense moist forests and 

high montane areas (USDA Forest Service 2005, p. 3-40; Interior Columbia Basin Ecosystem 

Management Project 2000). The former have frequent gaps in plant cover, which favor invasive plant 

establishment, whereas the latter have relatively closed plant cover or have extreme climate or soils, 

which are tolerated by fewer invasive plant species. Invasive plants tend to colonize disturbed ground 

along roads, highways, utility (powerline and gas) corridors, recreational residences, and along trails and 

in campgrounds and quarries. Once established, invasive plants begin to spread, displacing native

vegetation. Eastside forests are more susceptible to invasive plants for the above reasons.

The above research has demonstrated that motorized recreation can impact individual plants and their 

habitats. After soil is compacted, will native vegetation recover and how long would this take? Several 

studies investigated recovery of vegetation following disturbances. Knapp (1991) studied the response of 

semi-arid vegetation following the abandonment of mining towns in south-western Montana, and found 

considerable differences remained after 45-77 years between disturbed and undisturbed sites. Disturbed 

sites favored the invasion of introduced grass species. Recovery rates of vegetation and compacted soil 

were studied at a ghost town in southwestern Nevada (Webb and Wilshire 1980). Soils were still highly 

compacted after 51 years; recovery time was estimated to take at least 100 years. After 51 years, the 

composition and quality of vegetation in the streets of the town were still significantly different from 

those of the adjacent undisturbed area (Webb and Wilshire 1980). Vegetation in the town site consists of 

short-lived perennials whereas the surrounding undisturbed vegetation consists mainly of long-lived 

perennials. Generally, annuals (e.g., Russian thistle, Salsola kali) are the first colonizers in disturbed soil 

at this ghost town, followed by short-lived perennials (e.g., rice grass, Oryzopsis, and stipa (Stipa spp.) 

and then by medium- and long-lived perennials. This study indicates an extremely long recovery time is 

needed for recovery of vegetation, if the vegetation ever recovers. Ouren et al. (2007) state that some 

plant responses are likely to lag behind changes in soil properties, and, by the time effects are detected in 

plants, site recovery could be more difficult and lengthy.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 269

Motorized Travel Off of Designated Routes (Motorized Cross-country Travel) 

On the Deschutes National Forest, 39 percent of the acres of mapped Plant Association Groups are open 

to motorized travel off of designated routes under Alternative 1 (Table 100), Appendix B-7.2 (Table 31). 

On the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland, 60 percent are open cross-country travel. As discussed 

above, motorized vehicles and travel can impact native plants and native plant habitats. Compared to 

Alternatives 2 and 3, in which 100 percent of the acres are closed to cross-country travel, Alternative 1 

provides the least amount of protection to native plants and native plant habitats from motorized travel off 

of designated routes.

Table 100. Percent of plant association group acres closed and open for cross-country travel under 

Alternative 1 (existing condition) and Alternatives 2 and 3 for the Forests and Grasslanda

Unit Alt. 1

% Closed

Alt. 1b

% Open

Alt. 2 & 3

% Closed

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open

Deschutes NF 61

(987,550 ac.)

39

(625,459 ac.)

99.9

(1,611,912 ac.)

0.01

(915 ac.)

Ochoco NF and 

CRNG

40

(291,589 ac.)

60

(429,773 ac.)

100

(721,266 ac.)

0.003

(20 ac.)

Summary 

Conclusion

Alt. 1 provides least protection to 

native plants and native plant 

habitats from motorized use.

Alts. 2 and 3 increase protection to native plant 

habitats from motorized use because 100% of the 

mapped acres of plant association groups are 

closed to motorized travel off designated routes.

Note: See Appendix B-7.2 for more information.

a - To compare the alternatives for effects to native plants and native plant habitats from motorized travel off of designated routes, 

GIS was used to calculate the number of acres and percentage of PAGs, special habitats, TES plants, other rare or uncommon 

plants, and invasive plants for the different designations under each alternative.

b - Areas that are seasonally open were analyzed as open year-round because impacts to native plants habitats could occur at any 

time during the open season.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Table 101 summarizes the information from Appendix B-7.2 (Table 32). Since the majority of acres of 

native plant habitats (mapped as plant association groups) are open for motorized access for dispersed 

camping (72 percent on the Deschutes NF and 83 percent on the Ochoco NF and Grassland), Alternative 1 

provides the least protection and the greatest opportunity for damage to native plant habitats from 

motorized recreation. This includes indirect effects such as colonization of disturbed habitats by invasive 

plants.

Table 101. Percent of plant association group acres closed and open for motorized access for dispersed 

camping under the different alternativesa

Unit Alt. 1

% Closed

Alt. 1

% Open

Alt. 2 & 3

% Closed

Alt. 2 % 

Open & Alt. 3 

Open Upland 

Provisions

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open 

Upland 

Provisions

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open 

Riparian 

Provisions

Deschutes 

NF

28

(446,881 ac.)

72

(1,166,137ac.)

74

(1,196,287ac.)

23

(365,494 ac.)

2

(31,243 ac.)

1

(19,795 ac.)

Ochoco NF 

and CRNG

31

(221,522 ac.)

69

(499,840 ac.)

83

(597,076 ac.)

10

(69,700 ac.)

2

(15,286 ac.)

5

(39,203 ac.)

Summary Conclusions
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

270 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Unit Alt. 1

% Closed

Alt. 1

% Open

Alt. 2 & 3

% Closed

Alt. 2 % 

Open & Alt. 3 

Open Upland 

Provisions

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open 

Upland 

Provisions

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open 

Riparian 

Provisions

Alt. 1 provides least protection to 

native plant habitats because the 

majority of acres are open for 

motorized access for dispersed 

camping with no Special 

Provisions 

Alternatives 2 & 3 provide greater 

protection than Alt. 1 because 

more acres of habitat are closed to 

motorized access for dispersed 

camping (74% on Deschutes NF; 

83% on Ochoco NF and 

Grassland).

Alt. 3 provides the most protection 

because all areas open to 

motorized access for dispersed 

camping have Special Provisions, 

whereas some upland areas in 

Alternative 2 have no provisions 

(23% on the Deschutes NF; 10% on 

the Ochoco NF and Grassland).

Note: See Appendix B-7.2 (Table 32) for more information.

a - To compare the alternatives for effects to native plants and native plant habitats in areas open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping, GIS was used to buffer each travel route by 300 feet on each side. This buffer was overlaid onto GIS layers for plant 

association groups, special habitats layer, and inventoried TES, other rare or uncommon, and invasive plant sites. 

Special Habitats

Motorized use, especially concentrated and repeated use, can degrade native plant habitats by denuding 

areas of understory vegetation and compacting soils. Of particular concern are special habitats (areas 

which sustain unusual and/or particularly rich biological diversity) and rare plants and their habitats. 

Motorized Travel Off of Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel) 

Table 102 summarizes data shown in Appendix B-7.2 (Table 35). Alternative 1 provides less protection to 

special habitats from cross-country travel than Alternatives 2 and 3 because 13 percent of the acres 

occupied by special habitats are still open under Alternative 1 on the Deschutes National Forest and 73 

percent are open on the Ochoco National Forest. Under Alternatives 2 and 3, 100 percent of special 

habitat acres are closed to cross-country travel.

Table 102. Percent of special habitat acres closed and open for motorized travel off of designated routes 

under the three alternatives.

Unit Alt. 1

% Closed

Alt. 1

% Open

Alt. 2 & 3

% Closed

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open

Deschutes NF 87

(63,499 ac.)

13

(9,837 ac.)

100

(73,193 ac.)

0

(0 ac.)

Ochoco NF and 

CRNG

27

(25,625 ac.)

73

(69,957 ac.)

100

(95,579 ac.)

0

Summary 

Conclusion

Alternative 1 provides less protection to 

special habitats

Alternative 2 & 3 provide greater 

protection to special habitats

Note: See Appendix B-7.2 (Table 35) for more information.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Under Alternative 1, 45 percent of special habitat acres on the Deschutes NF and 90 percent on the 

Ochoco NF and Grassland are open to motorized access for dispersed camping (Table 103). Alternative 1 

provides the least protection to special habitats in areas open to motorized access for dispersed camping 

compared to Alternatives 2 and 3, in which the majority (86 percent on the Deschutes NF; 85 percent on 

the Ochoco NF and Grassland) of special habitats would be closed.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 271

Table 103. Special habitat closed and open for motorized access for dispersed camping under the different 

alternatives. 

Unit Alt. 1 

Closed Alt. 1 Open Alt. 2 Closed

Alt. 2 Open 

& Alt. 3 

Open 

Upland 

Provisions

Alt. 2 & 3 

Open 

Upland 

Provisions

Alt. 2 & 3 

Open 

Riparian

Provisions

% (acres)

Deschutes 

NF

55 

(40,103) 45 (33,234) 86 (63,222) 7 (5,020) 4 (2,659) 3 (2,366)

Ochoco NF 

& CRNG

10 

(9,846) 90 (85,736) 85 (81,492) 8 (7,376) 1 (1,419) 6 (5,249)

Summary 

Conclusions

Alt. 1 provides the least protection to special 

habitats in areas open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping.

Alternatives 2 and 3 provide greater protection 

to special habitats than Alt. 1 in areas open to 

motorized access for dispersed camping. Alt. 

3 provides more protection than Alt. 2.

Note: See Appendix B-7.2 (Table 36 and Table 38) for more information.

Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Plants

Appendix B-7.2.2 contains the biological evaluation for TES plants for this project. There are no federally 

listed threatened or endangered plant species or habitats documented or suspected to occur on the Forests 

and Grassland. Therefore, this analysis only refers to sensitive plants.

On the Forests and Grassland, several conservation documents have been completed. Off-road vehicle 

disturbance is identified as a threat to pumice grape fern (Botrychium pumicola), Henderson’s and 

Wallowa needlegrasses (Achnatherum hendersonii and A. wallowaensis), and Peck’s mariposa lily 

(Calochortus longebarbatus var. peckii) (Powers 2008; Dewey 2007; Dewey 2008). Though the 

conservation strategy for Peck’s penstemon (Penstemon peckii) does not directly identify off-highway 

motorized use as a threat, the strategy does identify that habitat loss and fragmentation as threats to this 

species (Pajutee 2008).

A biological evaluation (Appendix B-7.2.2) was prepared to 

evaluate the effects of the alternatives on sensitive plants (no 

threatened or endangered plants are documented or suspected to 

occur on the Forests and Grassland). The following table (Table 

104) summarizes the conclusions of the biological evaluation. 

More detailed information can be found in Table 2 of the 

biological evaluation in Appendix B-7.2.2. 

Mapped population acres were used to compare the alternatives. 

This represents occupied habitat. For all species, there may be 

potential habitat that is not yet occupied or known to be occupied, 

but the Forests and Grassland do not have detailed mapping of 

understory vegetation that would allow adequate analysis for 77 

sensitive plant species.

In this analysis, a determination was made of May Impact Individuals or Habitat, but will not likely 

contribute to a trend towards Federal Listing or cause a loss of viability to the population or species 

if any of the mapped population acres occur in areas open to motorized access for dispersed camping 

without any Special Provisions. The assumption was made that the species could be impacted if 

motorized dispersed camping can occur anywhere. For some species, it might only be a small portion of 

In Table 104, the following abbreviations 

are used for determinations of effect to 

sensitive plant populations and habitats:

NI – No Impact

MIIH = May Impact Individuals or 

Habitat, but will not likely contribute to a 

trend towards Federal Listing or cause a 

loss of viability to the population or 

species; 

MIFV = Will Impact Individuals or Habitat 

With A Consequence That The Action 

May Contribute To A Trend Towards 

Federal Listing Or Cause A Loss Of 

Viability To The Population or Species

BI = Beneficial Impact.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

272 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

the mapped habitat; for example, under Alternative 2, eight percent of the mapped acres for Henderson’s 

needlegrass (Achnatherum hendersonii) occur in upland areas open for motorized access for dispersed 

camping with no Special Provisions. Therefore, even though 92 percent of the occupied acres for this 

species would occur in areas with Special Provisions, a determination of MIIH was made in order to be 

conservative in predicting potential effects.

Table 104. Alternative effects summary to mapped sensitive plant populations and habitats for the travel 

management project area 

Motorized Travel Off of 

Designated Routes Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Species Alt. 1 Alt. 2&3 Alt. 1 Alt. 2 Alt. 3

Vascular Plants

Achnatherum 

hendersonii

Henderson’s needlegrass

MIIH BI MIIH MIIH NI

Achnatherum 

wallowaensis

Wallowa needlegrass

MIIH BI MIIH NI NI

Agoseris elata

tall agoseris NI NI MIIH MIIH NI

Arnica viscosa

Mt. Shasta arnica NI NI NI NI NI

Astragalus peck

Peck’s milkvetch MIIH BI MIIH BI BI

Astragalus tegetarioides

Deschutes milkvetch MIIH BI MIIH MIIH NI

Botrychium ascenden

trianglelobe moonwort MIIH BI MIIH BI BI

Botrychium crenulatum

scalloped moonwort MIIH BI MIIH MIIH NI

Botrychium minganense

Mingan moonwort MIIH BI MIIH MIIH NI

Botrychium montanum

mountain moonwort MIIH BI MIIH BI NI

Botrychium paradoxum

Peculiar moonwort NI BI MIIH BI BI

Botrychium pumicola

pumice grape-fern MIIH BI MIIH MIIH NI

Calochortus 

longebarbatus var. peckii

Peck’s mariposa lily

MIIH BI MIIH MIIH NI

Carex capitata

capitate sedge NI NI MIIH BI BI

Carex lasiocarpa var. 

americana

slender sedge

NI NI MIIH BI BI

Castilleja chlorotica

green-tinged paintbrush BI BI MIIH NI – OffDR

MIIH – MADC NI

Cyperus acuminatus

short-pointed cyperus NI NI MIIH BI NI

Gentiana newberryi var. 

newberryi

alpine gentian

MIIH BI MIIH MIIH NI

Lobelia dortmanna

Dortmann’s 

cardinalflower

NI NI NI NI NI

Lomatium ochocense

Ochoco lomatium NI NI MIIH BI BI
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 273

Motorized Travel Off of 

Designated Routes Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Species Alt. 1 Alt. 2&3 Alt. 1 Alt. 2 Alt. 3

Lycopodiella inundata

inundated clubmoss NI NI MIIH BI BI

Penstemon peckii

Peck’s penstemon

DES = MIIH

OCH = NI

DES = BI

OCH = BI

DES = MIIH

OCH = NI

DES = MIIH

OCH = NI

DES = NI;

OCH = NI

Rorippa columbiae

Columbia yellowcress NI NI NI NI NI

Scheuchzeria palustris

ssp. americana

rannoch-rush

NI NI NI NI NI

Schoenoplectus 

subterminalis (formerly 

Scirpus subterminalis) 

swaying bulrush

NI NI NI NI NI

Utricularia minor

lesser bladderwort MIIH BI MIIH BI BI

Bryophytes

Helodium blandowii

moss

DES = NI

OCH = NI

DES = NI

OCH = NI

DES = MIIH

OCH = MIIH

DES = NI

OCH = NI

DES = NI

OCH = NI

Rhizomnium nudum

rhizomnium moss MIIH BI MIIH BI BI

Schistostega pennata

luminous moss

NI NI MIIH BI BI

Tomentypnum nitens

moss

MIIH BI MIIH BI BI

Tritomaria exsectiformis

liverwort BI BI MIIH BI BI

Lichens

Dermatocarpon. luridum

Silverskin lichen

DES = NI

OCH = MIIH

DES = NI

OCH = BI

DES = MIIH

OCH = MIIH

DES = BI

OCH = BI

DES = BI

OCH - BI

Texosporium sanctijacobi

lichen

MIIH BI MIIH BI BI

Fungi

Alpova alexsmithii

fungus NI NI NI NI NI

Helvella crassitunicata

fungus NI NI MIIH BI BI

Hygrophorus caeruleus

fungus MIIH BI MIIH BI BI

Ramaria amyloidea

fungus NI NI NI NI NI

See Table 2 of the biological evaluation for more detailed information (Appendix B-7.2.2). 

Motorized Travel Off of Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

In Alternative 1, 71 percent of acres occupied by sensitive plants on the Ochoco NF and Grassland and 12

percent of acres on the Deschutes NF are open for cross-country travel (Table 105), whereas, under 

Alternatives 2 and 3, 100 percent of occupied sensitive plant acres are closed. A greater number of 

individual sensitive plant species and/or their habitats may be impacted under Alternative 1 due to crosscountry travel than under Alternatives 2 and 3 (Table 104).

Open habitats, such as meadows and drier forests, may be more vulnerable to off-road travel due to the 

fact that open habitats are more easily accessed by motor vehicles compared to areas with denser 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

274 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

vegetation. Species that occur in these habitats include Henderson’s and Wallowa needlegrasses (found in 

open scablands), Peck’s penstemon (found in moist swales and intermittent streams in ponderosa pine 

forests), Peck’s milk-vetch (mostly found in non-forested, open areas), and Botrychium species and Peck’s 

mariposa lily (found in meadows).

At this time, there are no known sensitive plants on the Forests and Grassland that are impacted by 

current levels cross-country travel to the point at which the species is declining and may need to be 

federally listed in order to be protected. Therefore, the effects determination for those species that occur 

in areas open for cross-country travel is MIIH instead of WIFV (see definitions for Table 104). 

For some sensitive plant species, a determination of No Impact was made. Table 2 of the biological 

evaluation (Appendix B-7.2.2) provides more detailed information about the effects determination. For 

example, Ochoco lomatium (Lomatium ochocense) populations occur in areas closed to motorized travel 

in Alternative 1 and this restriction would continue with Alternatives 2 and 3. Therefore, there is no 

change from the current condition, and the populations would not be impacted regardless of the selected 

alternative.

Table 105. Percent of acres occupied by sensitive plants closed and open for cross-country travel under 

Alternative 1, Alternative 2 and Alternative 3 for the Forests and Grassland

Unit Alt. 1

% Closed

Alt. 1

% Open

Alt. 2 & 3

% Closed

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open

Deschutes NF 88 12 100 0

Ochoco NF and 

CRNG 29 71 100 0 

Summary 

Conclusion

Alternative 1 provides less protection to 

sensitive plants and habitat

Alternatives 2 & 3 provide greater 

protection to sensitive plants and 

habitat

Note: See Appendix B-7 (Table 39) for more information.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Under Alternative 1, 95 percent of acres occupied by sensitive plants on the Ochoco NF and Grassland

and 32 percent on the Deschutes NF are within areas open for motorized access for dispersed camping 

(Table 106). Alternative 1 provides less protection to sensitive plants compared to Alternatives 2 and 3, 

which close 70 percent of occupied sensitive plant habitat on the Deschutes NF and 71 percent on the 

Ochoco NF/Grassland to motorized access for dispersed camping.

Table 106. Percent of acres occupied by sensitive plants closed and open for motorized access for dispersed 

camping under the different alternatives

Unit Alt. 1

% Closed

Alt. 1

% Open

Alt. 2 & 3

% Closed

Alt. 2

% Open

& Alt. 3 Open 

Special 

Provisions 

non-riparian

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open 

Special 

Provisions 

non-riparian

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open 

Special 

Provisions -

riparian

Deschutes NF 68 32 70 16 5 6 

Ochoco NF and 

CRNG 5 95 71 6 1 22

Summary 

Conclusions

Alternative 1 provides 

less protection to TES 

plants.

Alternative 2 provides a higher level of protection to TES 

plants than Alternative 1. Alternative 3 provides the most 

protection.

Note: See Appendix B-7.2 (Table 40) for more information.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 275

Other Rare or Uncommon Plants

As discussed earlier, other rare or uncommon plants are identified on the Deschutes National Forest 

within the Northwest Forest Plan area for protection from management activities. These species are often 

associated with late seral and/or old growth habitats.

Motorized Travel Off of Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel) 

Table 107 summarizes the differences between the three alternatives in the percent of acres occupied by 

other rare or uncommon plants that are closed or open to cross-country travel. Though only 4 percent of 

acres are open under Alternative 1, this alternative does not provide as much protection as Alternatives 2 

and 3, in which 100 percent of the occupied habitat is closed to cross-country travel.

Table 107. Percent of acres occupied by other rare or uncommon plants closed and open for cross-country 

travel under Alternative 1 (Existing Condition) and Alternatives 2 and 3 for the Deschutes National Forest

Unit Alt. 1

% Closed

Alt. 1

% Open

Alt. 2 & 3

% Closed

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open

Deschutes NF 96

(2.8 ac.)

4

(0.1 ac.)

100

(2.9 ac.) 0 

Summary Conclusion Alternative 1 provides less protection Alternatives 2 and 3 provide greater 

protection

Note: See Appendix B-7.2 (Table 41) for more information.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Under Alternative 1, more acres occupied by other rare or uncommon plants are closed to motorized 

access for dispersed camping (75 percent; Table 108) than under Alternatives 2 and 3. However, 

Alternative 1 allows unrestricted access for dispersed camping (i.e., no Special Provisions), whereas 

Alternatives 2 and 3 incorporate Special Provisions. Only five percent of the acres occupied by other rare 

or uncommon plants are within dispersed camping areas with no Special Provisions (Alternative 2). 

Because Alternative 1 allows unrestricted motorized access for dispersed camping, it has a greater 

potential adverse impact on other rare or uncommon plants.

Table 108. Percent of acres occupied by other rare or uncommon plants closed and open for motorized access 

for dispersed camping under the different alternatives for the Deschutes National Forest.

Unit Alt. 1

% Closed

Alt. 1

% Open

Alt. 2

% Closed

Alt. 2

% Open

& Alt. 3 Open 

Upland 

Provisions

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open 

Upland 

Provisions

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open 

Riparian 

Provisions

Deschutes NF 75

(2.2 ac.)

25

(0.7 ac.)

60

(0.18 ac.)

5

(0.03 ac.)

6 29

(0.1 ac.)

Summary 

Conclusions

Alternative 1 provides less 

protection because 

motorized access for 

dispersed camping with no 

Special Provisions

Alternatives 2& 3 provide greater protection than 

Alternative 1.

Note: See Appendix B-7 (Table 42) for more information.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

276 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Alternatives 2 and 3

Native Plants and Native Plant Habitats

Overall, Alternatives 2 and 3 would substantially reduce potential impacts to native plant habitats, 

including special and rare plant habitats, by substantially reducing the amount of acres available for 

motorized travel off of designated routes. Some native plant habitats within 300 feet of roads open for 

motorized access for dispersed camping could continue to have localized impacts, yet the proposed action 

does incorporate Special Provisions within sensitive areas adjacent to streams, wetlands, and water 

bodies. The Special Provisions would limit motorized access to no closer than 30 feet to the edge of the 

stream or water body.

Motorized Access Off of Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

Alternatives 2 and 3 provide greater protection than Alternative 1 to native plant habitats from motorized 

recreation because 100 percent of the acres of native plant habitats (mapped as plant association groups) 

are closed to cross-country travel (Table 100).

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Alternatives 2 and 3 provide greater protection than Alternative 1 to native plant habitats because 74 

percent of the acres are proposed to be closed to motorized access for dispersed camping compared to 

only 28 percent in Alternative 1 (Table 101).

Alternative 2 provides less protection than Alternative 3 to native plant habitats because 23 percent of 

mapped upland acres are open to motorized access for dispersed camping with no Special Provisions, 

whereas 100 percent of acres in Alternative 3 have Special Provisions. Alternative 3 confines motorized 

access for dispersed camping to existing, designated, or defined campsites, therefore limiting motorized 

use in surrounding habitats. This provides greater protection to native plant habitats.

Special Habitats 

Motorized Travel Off of Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

Alternatives 2 and 3 provide greater protection than Alternative 1 to special habitats because 100 percent 

of these areas closed to cross-country travel (Table 102).

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Alternatives 2 and 3 provide greater protection to special habitats than Alternative 1 because the majority 

(86 percent on the Deschutes NF; 85 percent on the Ochoco NF and Grassland) of special habitat acres 

would be closed to motorized access for dispersed camping compared to Alternative 1 (Table 103). In 

Alternative 1, only 55 percent on Deschutes NF and 10 percent on Ochoco NF/Grassland would be 

closed.

Of the acres open to motorized access for dispersed camping, Alternative 3 provides greater protection 

than Alternative 2 because of Special Provisions. Under Alternative 2, seven percent of special habitat 

acres on the Deschutes and eight percent on the Ochoco/Grassland occur in upland areas open to 

motorized access for dispersed camping without Special Provisions. Therefore, Alternative 2 does not
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 277

provide as much protection as Alternative 3, in which all areas open for motorized access for dispersed 

camping have Special Provisions.

Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Plants

As discussed earlier, there are no federally listed threatened or endangered plant species or habitats 

documented or suspected to occur on the Forests and Grassland. Therefore, this analysis only refers to 

Sensitive plants. 

See the discussion in Alternative 1 for more information on the biological evaluation.

Motorized Travel Off of Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

Alternatives 2 and 3 prohibit cross-country travel. On the Ochoco NF and Grassland, 71 percent of 

sensitive plant acres would be open for cross-country travel under Alternative 1, but 100 percent of the 

acres would be closed under Alternatives 2 and 3. For many sensitive plant populations, this results in a 

Beneficial Impact (Table 104, Appendix B-7 (Table 39)). This increases the protection of sensitive plants 

compared to current management in Alternative 1.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Alternatives 2 and 3 either increase the protection to sensitive plants or do not result in an adverse change 

(e.g., a determination of No Impact is made for all alternatives) (Table 104; Table 2 in Appendix B-7.2.2). 

More acres of sensitive plants are closed to motorized access for dispersed camping in Alternatives 2 and 

3 than in Alternative 1 (Table 106).

For many sensitive plant species, Alternative 2 increases the protection to sensitive plants and changes a 

May Impact Individuals and or Habitat determination in Alternative 1 to a Beneficial or No Impact

determination. For some species, Alternative 2 would result in the same May Impact Individuals and or 

Habitat determination as in Alternative 1 (e.g., Peck’s mariposa lily). As discussed in Alternative 1, a 

determination was made of May Impact Individuals and or Habitat if any of the mapped population 

acres occur in areas open to motorized access for dispersed camping without any Special Provisions. 

However, in most cases, the percent of acres open to motorized access for dispersed camping without 

Special Provisions is much less than what would occur in Alternative 1. For example, on the Ochoco NF 

and Grassland, 95 percent of the acres occupied by sensitive plants are open under Alternative 1 to 

motorized access for dispersed camping; in Alternatives 2 and 3, 71 percent of the acres would be closed 

to this use. Alternatives 2 and 3 provide greater protection to sensitive plant populations than Alternative 

1. 

Of the two action alternatives, Alternative 3 results in a determination of either No Impact or Beneficial 

Impact for all mapped sensitive plant populations. Alternative 3 provides greater protection than 

Alternative 2 because all areas open for motorized access for dispersed camping have Special Provisions 

(i.e., confine camping to existing, designated, or defined sites) (Table 106). 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

278 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Other Rare or Uncommon Plants

Motorized Travel Off of Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

Alternatives 2 and 3 provide equally high levels of protection because 100 percent of occupied acres of 

other rare or uncommon plants are closed to cross-country travel (Table 107). This results in a beneficial 

impact to other rare or uncommon plant species.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

In Alternatives 2 and 3, 40 percent of the acres occupied by other rare or uncommon plants are open for

motorized access for dispersed camping. However, of the 40 percent, only five percent are open in upland 

areas without Special Provisions (Table 108). The remaining 35 percent of acres are open with Special 

Provisions that confine motorized access for dispersed camping to existing, designated, or defined sites. 

Both Alternatives 2 and 3 increase the protection to other rare or uncommon plants over Alternative 1, 

which allows unrestricted motorized access for dispersed camping (i.e., no Special Provisions). However, 

Alternative 2 does not provide as much protection as Alternative 3 because five percent of occupied acres 

are open to motorized access for dispersed camping without provisions. Special provisions under 

Alternatives 2 and 3 increase the protection to these unique species more than Alternative 1.

Invasive Plants 

Executive Summary

Alternative 1 has the highest risk of invasive plant establishment, spread and expansion across the two 

Forests and Grassland because, of the 3 alternatives, it has the most acres that are open to cross-country 

travel and has few restrictions on motorized access for dispersed camping. Interior forest areas continue to 

be susceptible to the spread and establishment of invasive plants. 

Overall, Alternatives 2 (proposed action) and 3 would have a beneficial effect. They would reduce 

impacts from invasive plants compared to Alternative 1 because motorized access would be prohibited off 

of designated routes. There is an exception – some mineral material source sites (52 of 531) would 

continue to be open for cross-country travel, and motorized activities within these sites have a high risk of 

spreading invasive plants into and outside of these areas. Allowing motorized use in weed-infested areas 

would increase the chance of further spread to other areas. If invasive plants are introduced to an active 

material source site, the Forest Service would not be able to use the site to extract or dispose of material 

until the invasive plants are controlled (length of time for control would depend on the species).

Alternative 2 has a higher risk than Alternative 3 because motorized access for dispersed camping is 

allowed anywhere within the 300 foot buffer (except for those areas in Alternative 2 that are closed to this 

use or are designated as Special Provision areas). This risk is reduced in Alternative 3 because motorized 

access for dispersed camping is limited to existing, designated or defined sites, thus confining established 

populations of invasive plant populations, and reducing the potential for spread. Because Alternatives 2 

and 3 allow cross-country travel in active material source sites, there are likely to be adverse effects from 

further invasive plant spread if weed-infested materials are transported to other areas.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 279

Affected Environment

An invasive plant is a non-native plant whose introduction does or is likely to cause economic or 

environmental harm or harm to human health (Executive Order 13122). Invasive plants are distinguished 

from other non-native plants in their ability to spread (invade) into native ecosystems. Some species of 

invasive plants are listed by the Secretary of Agriculture or by the responsible State official as “noxious 

weeds”. This analysis includes all State-listed noxious weeds plus other invasive species that are of 

concern because of their impacts to ecosystem health. The term “invasive plants” more broadly 

encompasses all invasive, aggressive, or harmful non-indigenous plant species, whether designated 

noxious or not.

Table 109 lists mapped invasive plants that occur on the two Forests and Grassland. The majority of 

infestations (about 70 percent) occur along travel routes (road and trail corridors). Several species occur 

in such abundance that only selective sites are mapped. These include cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum), 

North Africa grass (Ventenata dubia) and Russian thistle (Salsola kali). 

The Forests and Grassland share many of the same invasive plant species, such as spotted and diffuse 

knapweeds, Canada and bull thistles, St. Johnswort, and Dalmatian toadflax. Yet, there are differences 

between the units as to which species are especially problematic. Medusahead, for example, is most 

abundant on the Crooked River National Grassland, while it occurs in very low numbers (if at all) on the 

other units. Though Dalmatian toadflax is established on Bend/Ft. Rock District, it is a new invader on the 

Grassland and, therefore, a high priority for treatment. Paulina District (Ochoco NF) contains the majority 

of houndstongue, yet has little medusahead; therefore, this species is a high priority for treatment before it 

encroaches onto other sites. Yellow star thistle is a high priority species for treatment on Lookout 

Mountain District; their one known site has been reduced from five acres to < 1⁄4 acre through herbicide 

and manual treatments approved in a 1998 Environmental Assessment (USDA Forest Service 1998b). 

Spotted knapweed is well established in the city of Bend, Oregon, and road corridors continue to spread 

this species further onto adjacent Bend/Ft. Rock District (Deschutes NF) lands. Spotted knapweed is 

abundant on Sisters District, yet this District also contains the majority of diffuse knapweed on the 

Deschutes National Forest. Crescent District does not have the scale of invasive plant problems like the 

other units, yet it plays a vital role in early detection and rapid response of new invader species entering 

our area via major highways (e.g., Highways 97 and 58). In the past few years, individual plants of yellow 

starthistle, kochia, and hairy whitetop have been found along Highways 97 and 58 and hand-pulled before 

flowering and setting seed.

Table 109. Number of mapped sites and infested acres of invasive plant species that occur on the Deschutes 

and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland (CRNG)

Scientific Name Common Name DES # sites DES Infested 

ac.

OCH # sites OCH/CRNG

Infested ac.

Acroptilon repens Russian knapweed - - 8 28

Arctium minus Lesser burdock - - 1 0.1

Bromus tectoruma Cheatgrass 5a 27a a a

Cardaria draba Whitetop - - 73 6.6

Cardaria pubescens Hairy whitetop 3 < 0.1

Carduus nutans Musk thistle - - 1 0.1

Centaurea debeauxii 

ssp. thuillieri Meadow knapweed - - 

Centaurea diffusa Diffuse knapweed 102 927 118 224

Centaurea 

solstitialis Yellow star-thistle 4 < 0.1 3 5 

Centaurea stoebe 

ssp. micranthos Spotted knapweed 515 843 214 477
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

280 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Centaurea spp. 

Unidentified – either 

spotted or diffuse 

knapweed

18 23 - - 

Cirsium arvense Canada thistle 108 329 307 110.6

Cirsium vulgare Bull thistle 151 537 28 4

Convolvulus 

arvensis Field bindweed 8 0.1 23 2 

Cynoglossum 

officinale Houndstongue 4 63 196 752

Cytisus scoparius Scotch broom 34 179 6 0.5

Dipsacus fullonum Teasel - - 17 2

Elymus repens Quackgrass 3 21 - -

Euphorbia esula Leafy spurge 4 3 3 0.1

Hypericum 

perforatum St. Johnswort 143 394 42 14

Iris pseudacorus Yellow flag iris Not mapped; occurs often with 

ribbongrass (see below) - - 

Isatis tinctoria Dyer’s woad 1 < 0.1 - -

Kochia scopariaa Kochia a a a a

Linaria dalmatica Dalmatian toadflax 178 224 7 1.4

Linaria vulgaris Butter and eggs 18 102 4 0.4

Linaria spp.

Unidentified Linaria

species 1 1.4

Onopordum 

acanthium Scotch thistle 10 114 19 7.5

Phalaris 

arundinaceaa Reed canarygrass 35 680 1 4 

Phalaris 

arundinacea var. 

picta

Ribbongrass

~ 250 clumps 

scattered along 

10 mi. Metolius 

River

~ 1 - - 

Potentilla recta Sulphur cinquefoil - - 41 3

Rubus discolor Himalayan blackberry - - 1 0.1

Salvia aethiopis Mediterranean sage 11 6.2

Salsola kalia Russian thistle 21 153 a a

Senecio jacobaea Tansy ragwort 32 194 - -

Taeniatherum caputmedusae Medusahead 5 10 253 3,327

Ventenata dubiaa North Africa grass - - a a

a - Extremely abundant; only a few selective sites have been mapped.

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Alternative 1

Motorized Access Off of Designated Routes

Research has shown that vehicular routes are a primary pathways for plant invasions into arid and semiarid ecosystems (reviewed in Brooks and Lair 2005). Vehicles serve as dispersal vectors for alien plant 

propagules (Clifford 1959) and disturbances within vehicular route corridors facilitate establishment of 

invasive plants (Greenberg et al. 1997). Off-highway vehicles (OHV) caked in mud acquired elsewhere 

potentially introduce or disperse seeds of non-native and invasive species; thus, OHV-route margins often 

become populated with exotics and invasives that eventually may spread and outcompete native species at 

the landscape level (Ouren et al. 2007). One study found that vehicles driven several feet through a 

spotted knapweed infestation can accumulate more than 2,000 seeds, and ten percent of the seeds 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 281

remained on the vehicle ten miles from the infestation site (Sheley and Petroff 1999). Lonsdale and Lane 

(1994) demonstrated that weed seeds are being moved around and into Kakadu National Park in Australia 

on tourist vehicles. The results of a study by Clifford (1959) suggests that small-seeded species have a 

better chance of dispersal by incorporation in the mud beneath vehicles than large-seed species, and that 

season of year might determine the range and frequency of species.

Roads and trails create edge habitats, resulting in a variety of effects, including changes in vegetation and 

encroachment of non-native and invasive plant species (Ouren et al. 2007). Parendes and Jones (2000) 

found exotic species were more frequent along high-use and low-use roads than on abandoned roads or 

along streams. Roads enhance exotic species invasion in the landscape by acting as corridors or agents for 

dispersal, providing suitable habitats, and containing reservoirs of propagules for future episodes of 

invasion. Tyser and Worley (1992) described alien flora in nine fescue grassland study sites adjacent to 

three types of transportation corridors – primary roads, secondary roads, and backcountry trails – in 

Glacier National Park, Montana, and found roadsides are especially vulnerable to colonization by alien 

flora and then function as sites of prolific seed production. 

Gelbard and Belnap (2003) concluded that paved and improved surface roads had more invasive plants 

than gravel roads or four-wheel drive tracks in Utah’s Canyonlands National Park. As roads are improved, 

the verges adjacent to them tend to become wider and to contain an increasing cover of exotic plant 

species. They determined the process of constructing paved roads disturbed more land (23 feet each side 

of the road) than the two-track road (3 feet). A similar study in Glacier National Park found spotted 

knapweed and yellow toadflax along primary and secondary roads but not along backcountry (nonmotorized) trails. Also, weed abundance was higher within the first 25 meters than at 100 meters, 

suggesting that the roads were the primary source for weed dispersal. 

Brooks and Lair (2005) provide examples of the typical pattern of plant invasions in the Mojave Desert. 

First, new invaders appear along roadsides near their adjacent regions of origin. In some cases, invaders 

may “island hop” into the region by establishing first in urbanized or agricultural regions, then move 

outward along roadsides into less developed areas. Once within the region, invaders are pre-positioned to 

begin the second phase of invasion, the spread away from roadsides into wildland areas. The initial stages 

of spread away from vehicular routes occurs within landscape features (e.g., washes or north facing hill 

slopes) or microsites (e.g., beneath perennial shrubs) where soil moisture levels are locally high. 

Disturbed areas adjacent to roadsides are also more readily invaded, such as utility corridors, areas with 

high OHV use, or burned areas. The third and final stage of invasion is the naturalization of invader 

populations in wildland areas away from roads.

Soil compaction also increases the potential for invasive, non-native annuals and other early successional 

plants to establish rapidly in OHV routes, whereas native perennials may require at least five years to 

become established (Ouren et al. 2007). Davidson and Fox (1974) found a significant loss of herbaceous 

vegetation in areas disturbed by motorcycle activity, and that non-native, early-successional species, such 

as redstem stork’s bill (Erodium cicutarium), were common at sites disturbed by off-road motorcycle 

activity.

Alternative 1 allows unrestricted cross-country travel. As discussed above, motorized vehicles are known 

vectors for spreading invasive plants, and disturbed habitats created by motorized recreation are 

vulnerable to invasive plants. In Alternative 1, 19 percent of the acres occupied by invasive plants on the 

Deschutes National Forest and 21 percent on the Ochoco National Forest would be open for motorized 

cross-country travel (Table 110). Invasive plants in these areas have a higher risk of spreading than under 

Alternatives 2 and 3, in which the majority of mapped invasive plant acres are closed to motorized travel 

off of designated routes Table 110 shows that 100 percent of occupied invasive plant acres are closed to 

cross-country travel. However, since this data was tabulated, the proposed action was modified to allow 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

282 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

for keeping some mineral material source sites open (see discussion under Alternatives 2 and 3, Material 

Source Sites). 

Table 110. Percent of invasive plant acres closed and open for cross-country travel under Alternative 1

(existing condition) and Alternatives 2 and 3 for the Forests and Grassland

Unit Alt. 1

% Closed

Alt. 1

% Open

Alt. 2 & 3

% Close Alt. 2 & 3 % Open

Deschutes NF 81

(48,976 ac.)

19

(11,742 ac.)

100

(60,696 ac.) 0 

Ochoco NF and 

CRNG

79

(7,054 ac.)

21

(1,852 ac.)

100

(8,898 ac.) 0 

Summary 

Conclusion

Higher risk that invasive plants will 

continue to spread and establish

Reduces impacts from invasive plants 

as all acres (100%) are closed to crosscountry travel

Note: See Appendix B-7.1 (Table 27) for more information.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

The analysis for considering the effects of cross-country travel and motorized access for dispersed 

camping are considered separately, even though there is some overlap in the designations.

As discussed earlier, vehicles serve as dispersal vectors for alien plant propagules (Clifford 1959) and 

disturbances within vehicular route corridors facilitate establishment of invasive plants (Greenberg et al. 

1997). Within areas open for motorized access for dispersed camping where there are no general or 

Special Provisions, it is reasonable to assume that existing invasive plant infestations will continue to 

expand into disturbed areas, and new populations are likely to become established from seeds and plant 

propagules carried into these areas by vehicles.

Alternative 1 has few restrictions on the Forests and Grassland for motorized access for dispersed 

camping compared to Alternatives 2 and 3, which limit motorized access for dispersed camping within 

300 feet of the centerline of roads that are designated as open for motorized travel. Under Alternative 1, 

dispersed camping areas can be more than 300 feet away from the road and there are no general or 

Special Provisions as under Alternatives 2 and 3. The majority (~ 70 percent) of inventoried invasive 

plant sites occur along roads. Invasive plants spread along travel corridors. Because Alternative 1 allows 

unrestricted motorized access for dispersed camping, this alternative has a higher risk of spreading 

invasive plants further into interior native plant habitats. 

On the Deschutes National Forest, 65 percent of occupied invasive plant acres are within areas open for 

motorized access for dispersed camping under Alternative 1 (Table 111). This is reduced to 28 percent for 

Alternatives 2 and 3. Given that the majority of invasive plant sites are within open areas (for dispersed 

camping) and the fact that Alternative 1 allows mostly unrestricted motorized access for dispersed 

camping, it is reasonable to conclude that Alternative 1 would have an adverse effect of spreading 

invasive plants.

On the Ochoco National Forest, 23 percent of occupied invasive plant acres are within areas open for 

motorized access for dispersed camping under Alternative 1 (Table 111). This is increased to 38 percent 

for Alternatives 2 and 3 because areas on the Grassland would be designated as open for motorized access 

for dispersed camping that are currently closed under Alternative 1. However, under Alternative 1, 

motorized access for dispersed camping can occur anywhere, whereas this use is restricted to within 300 

feet of open designated routes in Alternatives 2 and 3. Furthermore, Alternative 1 does not have Special 

Provisions as do Alternatives 2 and 3; therefore, Alternative 1 provides less protection from invasive plant 

spread and establishment.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 283

In conclusion, Alternative 1 has the highest risk of invasive plant establishment, spread and expansion 

because it allows unrestricted cross-country travel and does not have general or Special Provisions related 

to motorized access for dispersed camping. 

Table 111. Percent and acres of invasive plant areas closed and open for motorized access for dispersed 

camping under the different alternatives.

Unit Alt. 1

% Closed

Alt. 1

% Open

Alt. 2

% Close

Alt. 2

% Open

& Alt. 3 Open 

Special

Provisions NonRiparian

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open 

Special

Provisions 

Non-Riparian

Alt. 2 & 3

% Open 

Special

Provisions -

Riparian

Deschutes NF 35

(21,139)

65

(39,578)

72

(43,365)

16

(9,380)

8

(4,859)

4

(2,668)

Ochoco NF 

and CRNG

77

(6,887)

23

(2,015)

61

(5,467)

7

(643)

18

(1,604)

13

(1,193)

Summary 

Conclusion

Alt. 1 has the highest risk of 

invasive plant 

establishment, spread and 

expansion because it does 

not have general or Special 

Provisions related to 

motorized access for 

dispersed camping and the 

majority of invasive plant 

sites are within areas open 

for camping.

Alternative 3 provides the most protection of all three 

alternatives against establishment, spread, and expansion 

of invasive plant populations because all areas open for 

motorized access for dispersed camping (100 percent) 

would be confined to existing, designated, and defined 

sites and this would reduce the potential to further spread 

the invasive plants.

Alternative 2 has some upland occupied invasive plant 

acres (16 percent on the Deschutes National Forest and 7 

percent on the Ochoco National Forest) that occur in 

areas where motorized access for dispersed camping 

would not be confined to existing, designated, or defined 

sites. Therefore, invasive plants have a higher likelihood 

of establishing, spreading and expanding under 

Alternative 2 than under Alternative 3.

Note: See Appendix B-7.1 (Table 28) for more information.

Alternatives 2 and 3

Alternatives 2 and 3 both prohibit motorized travel off of designated routes. They allow motorized access 

for dispersed camping within 300 feet of open designated routes; however, they prohibit camping within 

30 feet of water bodies. 

The primary difference between Alternatives 2 and 3 is that Alternative 3 confines motorized access for 

dispersed camping to existing, designated, or defined camp sites (Special Provisions), whereas Alternative 

2 incorporates a combination of Special Provision areas but also has some upland areas in which 

motorized access for dispersed camping can occur anywhere within the 300 foot area and is not confined 

to existing, designated, or defined sites.

Motorized Access off Designated Routes (Cross-country Travel)

Alternatives 2 and 3 would reduce impacts from invasive plants because the majority of acres occupied by 

invasive plants are closed to cross-country travel routes (Table 110 and Appendix B-7.1 (Table 27)), 

which is expected to prevent further spread of invasive plants by motorized vehicles. Prohibiting crosscountry travel would reduce the amount of disturbed habitat, and therefore reduce spread of invasive 

plants into interior areas. Table 110 shows that 100 percent of acres under Alternatives 2 and 3 are closed 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

284 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

to cross-country travel; however, since this data was tabulated, the Proposed Action was modified to 

allow for keeping some material source sites (52 of 531) open for cross-country travel (see Material 

Source Sites under Alternatives 2 and 3, below). Some material sources have been inventoried for 

invasive plants and contain invasive plants; others have not been inventoried and the status is unknown 

(Table 112).

Invasive Plant Regional Standard #1 (now incorporated as a Standard in both the Deschutes and Ochoco 

Land and Resource Management Plans), requires: “Prevention of invasive plant introduction, 

establishment and spread will be addressed in watershed analysis; roads analysis; fire and fuels

management plans, Burned Area Emergency Recovery Plans; emergency wildland fire situation analysis; 

wildland fire implementation plans; grazing allotment management plans, recreation management plans, 

vegetation management plans, and other land management assessments” (USDA Forest Service 2005).

Prevention strategies incorporated into Alternatives 2 and 3 are:

• Prohibiting motorized cross-country travel would reduce the potential for invasive plant spread 

and establishment.

• Conditions for motorized access for dispersed camping are limited to general and Special 

Provisions across the two Forests. 

• Some routes with known high levels of aggressive invasive plants would prohibit motorized 

access for dispersed camping within 300 feet of designated routes.

• 479 of the 531 material source sites (see Material Source Sites, below) would be closed to 

motorized travel off designated routes. Of these 479 closed material source sites, 16 on the 

Deschutes National Forest and 22 on the Ochoco National Forest are known to have invasive 

plants. Prohibiting motorized access off designated routes would help to prevent further spread of 

these invasives.

Material Source Sites

On the Forests and Grassland, there are rock and/or cinder pits (called mineral material source sites), 

many of which are currently open to motorized use. The Deschutes has 200 mineral material sources and 

the Ochoco and Grassland have 331 sites (see minerals and geology report). The majority of material 

sources sites (479 of 531) would be closed to cross-country travel and the reasons for closure are detailed 

in the geology Appendix B-6. Of 531 material source sites on the Forests and Grassland, 52 are proposed 

to remain open to recreation activities and dispersed camping: 30 on the Deschutes; 20 on the Ochoco, 

and 2 on the Grassland (Table 112). Of these 52 material source sites, some have known invasive plant 

sites, whereas the status in others is unknown and invasive plant surveys are needed. 

As discussed under Alternative 1, motor vehicles are known vectors for spreading invasive plants. 

Habitats disturbed by motorized recreation are vulnerable to invasion. Allowing motorized cross-country 

travel within weed-infested material source sites would increase the risk and potential for invasive plant 

spread and establishment. This risk is not limited to the material source sites; unclean vehicles leaving

these sites can carry seeds and plant propagules into new areas. 

The Forests and Grassland are currently developing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for treating 

invasive plants. The analysis for this EIS includes treatment of invasive plant sites within these material 

source sites. If this EIS is approved, then future treatment of mineral material source sites would follow 

the direction and mitigations developed in this analysis. The EIS includes an Early Detection/Rapid 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 285

Response Strategy that – if approved – would provide a strategy for treating newly discovered invasive 

plant infestations in these sites. 

For Table 112, the following terms are used to describe the status of material sources:

• Active = Actively used for mineral material extraction, waste disposal or stockpiles

• Inactive = Not currently being used but could in the future

• Closed = Material sources have been exhausted and it will not be used as a mineral material site.

Table 112. Mineral material source sites proposed to be open to motorized access on the Deschutes and 

Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland 

Material 

Source # Material Source Name Acres Status Invasive Plants

Deschutes – Bend/Ft. Rock District

1006 North Siah Cinder Pit 2.32 Inactive Unknown

1008 Siah Cinder Pit 0.87 Inactive Unknown

1040 Sprague Gravel Pit 6.44 Waste Disposal Site Unknown

1057 West Browns Creek 

Gravel 6.44 Inactive Unknown

1112 East Spillway Borrow Pit 17.12 Active Unknown

3004 Coyote Butte Cinder Pit 4.91 Inactive

Spotted knapweed (~ 5,000+ plants), 

Russian thistle (~ 5,000+ plants, and 

Dalmation toadflax (~ 500 plants)

3018 Pipeline Cinder Pit 5.35 Inactive Unknown

3022 Sand Flat Cinder Pit 6.66 Inactive Unknown

3040 Ground Hog Cinder Pit 1.37 Inactive Unknown

3041 Sabol Butte Cinder Pit 5.31 Inactive Unknown

Deschutes – Crescent District

2003 Maklaks Cinder Pit 1.16 Inactive Unknown

2004 Black Rock Cinder Pit 16.12 Active

2005 Mabel Butte Cinder Pit 7.76 Inactive Unknown

2008 Muttonchop Cinder Pit 

No. 1 10.54 Active Unknown

2011 Junction Rock Quarry 6.41 Inactive Unknown

2022 Burlington Pumice Pit 0.59 Inactive Unknown

2023 Northern Pumice Pit 0.61 Inactive Unknown

2026 Paunina Pumice Pit 2.95 Inactive Unknown

2028 Cove Gravel Pit 0.56 Inactive Unknown

2033 Crescent Creek Gravel 

Pit 0.61 Inactive Unknown

Deschutes – Sisters District

5006 Cache Cinder Pit 2.21 Inactive Unknown

5008 Zimmerman Cinder Pit 16.72 Active Unknown

5009 Fourmile Cinder Pit 4.93 Active Unknown

5011 Melvin Cinder Pit 4.79 Inactive Unknown

5015 Whychus Creek Gravel 

Pit 4.63 Active Unknown

5016 Pole Creek Cinder Pit 3.53 Inactive Unknown

5019 Garrison Cinder Pit 4.53 Inactive Unknown

5022 McKenzie Gravel Pit 4.00 Inactive Unknown

5033 North Sisters Gravel Pit 4.52 Inactive Unknown

5045 East Sullivan Rock 

Quarry 5.70 Inactive Unknown

Ochoco NF – Lookout Mt. District
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

286 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Material 

Source # Material Source Name Acres Status Invasive Plants

132009331 Ahalt 6.62

Closed (currently 

dispersed campground,

OHV use)

Unknown

181912133 Chipmunk 12.42 Active Surveyed and no weeds

132004441 Crystal 1.38 Closed Unknown

121715333 Highland 8.10 Active Surveyed and no weeds

121935211 Mcginnis 2.93 Active Teasel

142230321 North Fork 15.33 Active Spotted knapweed and Scotch thistle

132219331 Scott’s Camp 1.71 Waste Disposal Surveyed and no weeds

18192133 Sherwood Saddle 5.27 Waste Disposal Surveyed and no weeds

13133241 Thunder Rock 2.04 Active Surveyed and no weeds

132022441 Walton Lake 12.43 Active Canada thistle

121828343 Whiskey 8.30 Active Oxeye daisy treated; moderate risk of 

weeds because lot of uses (vectors)

Ochoco NF – Paulina District

132329422 Aspen 9.01 Active Mullein

152533432 Bellworm 7.82 Waste Disposal Unknown

142336412 Flow Top 0.52 Closed Unknown

142336442 Grasshopper 0.51 Closed Unknown

142336122 Juniper 0.57 Closed Unknown

142414232 Podo Meadow 1.43 Stockpile Mullein

132314222 Remington 1.84 Closed Unknown

142432112 Six Corner 11.89 Active Surveyed and no weeds

142408342 Thornton 19.92

Closed (currently 

dispersed campground 

with OHV use)

Unknown

Crooked River National Grassland

111336415 Metolius 20.66 Active ~ 50 Russian thistle and ~ 50 diffuse 

knapweed plants found in 2009

111213435 Round Butte 40.49 Active 

Spotted knapweed and medusahead; 

shared with Oregon Dept. of 

Transportation

In 2005, the USFS Pacific Northwest Region revised Forest Land and Resource Management Plans with 

Standards for preventing and managing invasive plants (USDA Forest Service 2005). Regional Invasive 

Plant Standard #7 requires the Forests and Grassland to: “Inspect active gravel, fill, sand stockpiles, 

quarry sites, and borrow material for invasive plants before use and transport. Treat or require treatment 

of infested sources before any use of pit material. Use only gravel, fill, sand, and rock that is judged to be 

weed free by District or Forest weed specialists.” The intent of this standard is prevention – to prevent 

further invasive plant spread and establishment. The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests Land and 

Resource Management Plans were amended to include this Standard.

Of the 52 material source sites proposed to be open for motorized use, eight of the 30 Deschutes sites and 

11 of the 22 Ochoco and Grassland sites are actively used for material sources (Table 112). Allowing 

motorized use of these active mineral material source sites has a high risk of introducing and spreading 

invasive plants within the sites as well as a high potential for motorized vehicles to carry seeds and plant 

parts out of the site, dispersing them into other areas (i.e., wherever the vehicles may travel). Because 

Alternatives 2 and 3 allow cross-country travel in active material source sites and because the Forests and 

Grassland do not yet have the ability to treat weeds in these sites aggressively (i.e., we cannot use 

herbicides in many of these sites), there are likely to be adverse effects from further invasive plant spread. 

If invasive plants are introduced to an active material source site, the Forest Service would not be able to 

use the site to extract or dispose of materials (length of time would depend on the species).
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 287

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Alternatives 2 and 3 provide greater protection than Alternative 1 against invasive plant spread and 

establishment on the Deschutes National Forest because 72 percent of occupied invasive plant acres 

would be closed to motorized access for dispersed camping compared to only 35 percent under 

Alternative 1. Since vehicles serve as dispersal vectors for invasive plant propagules (Clifford 1959; 

Greenberg et al. 1997), restricting motor vehicle access where invasive plants occur would help reduce 

the potential for these populations to spread. 

On the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland, more acres of invasive plant sites are closed under 

Alternative 1 than under Alternatives 2 and 3 for motorized access for dispersed camping (Table 111). As 

discussed in Chapter 2 of the EIS, much of the Grassland is currently closed to motorized travel; some 

currently-closed areas would open for motorized access for dispersed camping under Alternatives 2 and 3. 

However, under Alternative 1, motorized access for dispersed camping can occur anywhere, whereas this 

use is restricted to within 300 feet of open designated routes in Alternatives 2 and 3.

Since invasive plants follow travel corridors and motorized access for dispersed camping under 

Alternatives 2 and 3 will concentrate this use in the 300 foot buffer zone, invasive plants will continue to 

spread and become established along open designated routes. Though interior forest areas would be better 

protected from invasive plants under Alternatives 2 and 3, there could still be adverse impacts from 

invasive plants within 300 feet of open designated routes. Alternative 2 has a higher risk than Alternative 

3 because motorized access for dispersed camping is allowed anywhere within the 300 foot buffer (except 

for those areas in Alternative 2 that are closed to this use or are designated as Special Provision areas). 

This risk is reduced in Alternative 3 because motorized access for dispersed camping is limited to 

existing, designated, or defined sites.

Under Alternative 2, 16 percent of upland occupied invasive plant acres are within areas open for 

motorized access for dispersed camping with general (not special) provisions, meaning that motorized 

access for dispersed camping is not confined to existing, designated, or defined sites (Table 111; 

Appendix B-7.1 (Table 28)). The potential creation of new dispersed campsites under Alternative 2 in 

upland areas increases the risk of invasive plant spread and establishment over Alternative 3. Alternative 3 

provides a higher level of protection against invasive plant spread and establishment over Alternative 2 

because motorized access for dispersed camping is confined to existing, designated, or defined sites, 

which limits the areas where people can drive and camp (Table 111; Appendix B-7.1 (Table 28)) 

Alternatives 2 and 3 have the same riparian Special Provisions. Motorized access for dispersed camping is 

not allowed within 30 feet of water and, in riparian areas, is confined to existing, designated, or defined 

sites. This is intended to protect riparian habitats, including riparian vegetation and bank stability, and 

would help prevent spread and establishment of invasive plants.

In conclusion, Alternative 3 provides the most protection of all three alternatives against establishment, 

spread, and expansion of invasive plant populations because all areas open for motorized access for 

dispersed camping (100 percent) would be confined to existing, designated, and defined sites and this 

would reduce the potential to further spread the invasive plants. Alternative 2 has some upland occupied 

invasive plant acres (16 percent on the Deschutes National Forest and seven percent on the Ochoco 

National Forest) that occur in areas where motorized access for dispersed camping would not be confined 

to existing, designated, or defined sites. Therefore, invasive plants have a higher likelihood of 

establishing, spreading and expanding under Alternative 2 than under Alternative 3.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

288 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Vegetation Management Activities and Wildfires

Executive Summary

This report considers the current condition along with the direct and indirect effects of the proposed 

action and alternatives on past vegetation treatments (hazardous fuels, timber, and silviculture) that may 

result in conditions more conducive to motorized access and large wildfires across the Deschutes and 

Ochoco National Forests. Under Alternative 1, there would be an adverse effect to the acres burned by 

large wildfires or that have had vegetation treatments currently open to cross-country travel or motorized 

access for dispersed camping (65,780 and 93,830 acres, respectively on the Deschutes National Forest 

and 45,418 and 55,515 acres, respectively on the Ochoco National Forest). These vegetation treatments 

and large wildfires may have created conditions that are more conducive to motorized access than many 

untreated areas, and therefore increase the potential for these areas to have unauthorized routes created in 

them. The creation of unauthorized routes could further disturb vegetation (beyond needs described in 

project goals) and possibly impede vegetation recovery. Alternatives 2 and 3 would both eliminate the 

acres of vegetation treatments and acres burned by large wildfires available for cross-country travel and 

restrict motorized access for dispersed camping to within 300 feet of open designated routes to varying 

degrees. Alternative 2 would result in a total of approximately 27,005 and 7,705 acres (Deschutes and 

Ochoco National Forests, respectively) of vegetation treatments and acres burned by large wildfires 

potentially available for motorized access for dispersed camping. This represents a 71 percent and 86 

percent reduction from existing conditions (Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, respectively). 

Alternative 3 would eliminate the acreage of planned vegetation treatments or acres burned by wildfires 

potentially available for motorized access for dispersed camping on both Forests. 

Affected Environment

Wildfire

Fire is a significant disturbance mechanism on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked 

River National Grassland. Historical Forest records indicate that fires, both human and lightning-caused, 

have burned significant acreage across both Forests, despite fire suppression efforts. On the Deschutes, 

polygon fire history records (which generally contain fires larger than 100 acres) from 1908 to 2007 show 

that 238 fires have burned over 411,000 acres (approximately 318,000 acres of ground when overlap 

between areas burned is subtracted; 16 percent of the Forest total). On the Ochoco National Forest, 

similar fire history records from 1961 – 2007 show that 33 fires have burned nearly 57,000 acres 

(approximately 46,000 acres of ground when overlap between areas burned is subtracted; 6 percent of the 

Forest total). 

Vegetation Treatments (Hazardous Fuels, Timber, and Silviculture)

For the purpose of this analysis, any hazardous fuels, timber, or silvicultural activity that reduces or 

rearranges fuels or stand/brush density is considered a vegetation treatment. Vegetation treatments are 

assumed to create conditions that are more conducive to cross-country travel or motorized access for 

dispersed camping than many untreated areas58. Range improvement projects that also function to reduce 

 

58 Suitability for cross-country travel or motorized access for dispersed camping (e.g., slope, vegetation type, proximity to urban 

areas) was not incorporated into this analysis. All acres presented as treated in this analysis are considered equally conducive for 

motorized access.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 289

hazardous fuels are included in this analysis. These vegetation treatments are generally classified into the 

following categories:

• Hazardous Fuels Treatments - Any manipulation or removal of wildland fuels to reduce the 

likelihood of ignition or to lessen potential damage from fire and resistance to fire suppression. 

Methods include: chipping, crushing, piling, and burning (i.e., prescribed fire; Helms 1998). 

Mowing, thinning, yarding, and rearranging would also fall under this treatment.

• Intermediate Treatment - Any treatment or tending designed to enhance growth, quality, vigor and 

composition of the stand after establishment or regeneration and prior to final harvest (Helms 

1998). The primary method of accomplishing this treatment is thinning trees (e.g., sanitation, 

improvement, and/or commercial thinning), but pruning and salvage would also fall into this 

category.

• Regeneration Treatment- Any removal of trees intended to assist regeneration already present or 

to make regeneration possible. Methods include clearcutting, seed tree, shelterwood, group 

selection, single tree selection, and salvage cutting. Any of these methods may remove any 

remaining crop trees (i.e., overstory) as a final removal treatment; however, some or all of the 

remaining overstory can be retained as reserve trees (Helms 1998).

• Release Treatment – Any treatment designed to free young trees from undesirable, usually 

overtopping, competing vegetation (Helms 1998). Weeding and slashing would fall into this 

category. 

Depending on the site-specific treatment design, treatment types can fall into several categories (e.g., 

thinning, salvage) and multiple treatments are often used on the same acres of ground. Definitions of the 

treatment methods described above can be found in Appendix B-7.3.1. 

From 1943 to 2009, approximately 608,000 acres on the Deschutes National Forest have received some 

sort of vegetation treatment that may result in forest conditions more conducive to motorized access. 

Approximately 94 percent (572,000 acres) of the total acreage treated intersects within 300 feet of an 

open designated route. Nearly 90 percent of the treatment activity reported occurred after 1980. From 

1965 to 2008, approximately 224,000 acres on the Ochoco National Forest received a vegetation 

treatment that may result in forest conditions more conducive to motorized access. Approximately 82 

percent (184,000) of these acres intersect within 300 feet of open designated routes. Nearly 99 percent of 

the treatment activity reported occurred after 198059. 

Existing Conditions

2004-2008 – This grouping of projects is the most recent, and are likely to have the freshest and perhaps 

most distinct changes in vegetative conditions. During this time period, 112,915 and 59,738 acres of 

ground, respectively, on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, received some sort of vegetation 

 

59 The spatial component of the Forest Activity Tracking System (FACTS) was used to complete this analysis on the Deschutes 

National Forest. Forest-maintained GIS records were used to complete this analysis on the Ochoco National Forest. Spatial 

records may overestimate actual treatment completed on the ground. The extent of this overestimation was not determined. This 

is a result of reporting procedures, which do not require a spatial representation of the exact treated ground acreage if different 

from the unit boundary (e.g., if a unit is only partially burned during a prescribed fire, a new spatial shape for the partial acreage 

is not required) and the heterogeneity of ground treated when projects are implemented (e.g., not every inch of ground within a 

unit boundary will become more conducive to motorized access as a result of treatment). This effect is likely more pronounced 

with more historical records, as spatial mapping capabilities were not as sophisticated as they are today. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

290 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

treatment that may have resulted in conditions more conducive to motorized access. Approximately 83 

percent and 90 percent, respectively, on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, of these acres are 

currently open to motorized access for dispersed camping, and 58 percent and 74 percent, respectively, on 

the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, of these acres are currently open to cross-country travel. See 

Table 113 for a breakdown of these acres. See Appendix B-7.3.1 (Table 43) for project, planning area, or 

sale names and corresponding acres of treated ground, and the NEPA documents under which most of 

these acres were treated.

Table 113. Acres of planned vegetation treatments in areas open to cross-country travel or motorized access 

for dispersed camping that may result in forest conditions more conducive to motorized access on the 

Deschutes National Forest from 2004 – 2008 

Forest Open to cross-country travel (acres) Open to motorized access for dispersed camping (acres)

Deschutes NF 65,197 93,247

Ochoco NF 44,151 53,840

During this period on the Deschutes National Forest, most acres were treated through the following 

activities: 

• Burning of piled material 

• Piling of fuels (hand or machine) 

• Precommercial thinning

• Commercial thinning

• Yarding 

During this time period on the Ochoco National Forest, most acres were treated through the following 

activities:

• Precommercial thinning

• Underburning 

• Pile burning

• Jackpot burning;

• Piling of fuels (hand or machine)

Additionally, 23,548 acres of the Deschutes National Forest was reported as burned by large wildfires 

during this time period (excluding 2008 and 2009-data not available at time of analysis); 583 of these 

acres are currently open to motorized access for dispersed camping and open to cross-country travel. 

These fires are listed in Table 114. 

Table 114. Large wildfires on the Deschutes National Forest from 2004 to 2007 

Fire Name Year Acres Reported District

GW 2007 7357 Sisters

Woodside Ranch 2007 589 Bend Fort Rock

Lake George 2006 5550 Sisters

Cave 2005 652 Bend Fort Rock

Black Crater 2006 9400 Sisters
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 291

Note: Fire names highlighted with bold text have burned in areas open to cross-country travel and/or areas open to motorized 

access for dispersed camping

Additionally, 8,141 acres of the Ochoco National Forest was reported as burned by large wildfires during 

this time period (excluding 2008 and 2009 -data not available at time of analysis); 1,267 acres that are 

currently open to cross-country travel and 1,675 acres that are currently open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping. These fires are listed in Table 115. 

Table 115. Large wildfires on the Ochoco National Forest from 2004 to 2007 

Fire Name Year Acres Reported District/Unit

Buck Butte 2002 105 Crooked River NG

Geneva 3 2006 480 Crooked River NG

890 2006 382 Crooked River NG

Mill 2005 29 Lookout Mountain

Maxwell 2006 7145 Lookout Mountain

Note: Fire names highlighted with bold text have burned in areas open to cross-country travel and/or areas open to motorized 

access for dispersed camping

Pre - 2004 - This grouping of projects has occurred long enough ago that, depending upon site conditions, 

change from the vegetative conditions in place immediately following the treatment may have occurred. 

During this time period, 560,116 and 189,696 acres of ground, respectively, on the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests, received some sort of planned vegetation treatment that may result in forest conditions 

more conducive to motorized access. Approximately 51 percent (285,605 acres) and 84 percent (159,739 

acres), respectively, of these treated areas on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, are currently 

open to cross-country travel and approximately 79 percent (441,512 acres) and 95 percent (180,932 

acres), respectively, on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, are currently open to motorized 

access for dispersed camping. The conditions resulting from these planned vegetation treatments and 

wildfires prior to 2004 are reflected in the 2004 satellite imagery which is used in support of the analysis

of the vegetative conditions for this EIS for other resource specialties (e.g., wildlife), and are therefore not 

presented in the body of this chapter. Appendix B-7.3.3 includes a detailed list of the wildfires and acres 

treated that were considered as contributing to this existing condition prior to 2004. 

Table 116. Reasonably foreseeable projects or planning areas on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests

Project Name District Acresa

Deschutes National Forest

Deadlog Vegetation Management Project Bend Fort Rock In Progress

Deschutes River Aspen Enhancement Bend Fort Rock 40

Met Fuels Reduction Bend Fort Rock In Progress

Snow Hazardous Fuels Reduction Project Bend Fort Rock 6,099

South Bend Hazardous Fuels Bend Fort Rock 3,021

EXF Thinning Fuels Reduction, and Research Project Bend Fort Rock In Progress

Sparky Bend Fort Rock In Progress

West Tumbull HFRA Bend Fort Rock In Progress

BLT Vegetation Management and Fuels Reduction Crescent 7,499

Sun Forest Fuels Reduction Crescent In Progress

SAFR Sisters 17,573

Rim Paunina Crescent In Progress

2008 Small Diameter Thinning Crescent 2,590

Ochoco National Forest

Round Butte 3 Fuel Reduction Crooked River National Grassland In Progress

Winter Range Habitat Improvement Project Crooked River National Grassland In Progress

Canyon Fuels and Vegetation Management Lookout Mountain In Progress

Gray Prairie Prescribed Burn Lookout Mountain In Progress

Bridge Creek Danger Tree Abatement Lookout Mountain 196b
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

292 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Project Name District Acresa

Upper Beaver Creek Vegetation Management Project Paulina In Progress

Wheeler Aspen Restoration Project Paulina 70

a - Acres of treatment are listed for “completed” projects only.

b - Trees thinned for danger abatement along 5.2 miles of road, exact acreage treated will depend on danger tree location

Fiscal year 2009 and beyond- At the time of this analysis, a comprehensive inventory of activities 

completed in fiscal year 2009 (October 1, 2008 – September 30, 2009) or those planned to be 

implemented in fiscal year 2010 and beyond were not yet available. For the purpose of this analysis, 

reasonably foreseeable future vegetation management activities are those that are “in-progress” or 

“completed”, in terms of status in the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) planning process60

(as opposed to status of implementation on the ground). Explicit planned treatment acreage is available 

for “completed” projects only. Approximately 36,822 and 266 acres on the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests are planned to be treated in the reasonably foreseeable future under NEPA completed in 

fiscal year 2009. These projects fall within areas with proposed closure decisions and can be found in 

Table 116. 

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Alternative 1

Under Alternative 1, there would be an indirect adverse effect to vegetation burned by large wildfires or 

that have had vegetation treatments. Vegetation treatments and large wildfires may have created 

conditions that are more conducive to motorized access than many untreated areas, and therefore increase 

the potential for these areas to have unauthorized routes created in them. The creation of these 

unauthorized routes could potentially further disturb vegetation (beyond the need described in project 

goals) and possibly impede vegetation recovery. Disturbance from motorized vehicles can directly impact 

vegetation through breaking and smashing of emergent seedlings, shrubs, and understory species. 

Additionally, disturbed ground can result in decreased vegetative cover and growth (Ouren et al. 2007). 

While these effects may not adversely impact hazardous fuels reduction objectives, they may adversely 

affect silvicultural or native plant restoration project goals where understory or seedling responses are 

desired outcomes (see Native Vegetation for more detail on effects to vegetation). Over time, the effect of 

Alternative 1 is the creation of additional and sustained use of unauthorized routes and consequently 

continued vegetation damage and possibly impeded vegetation response in areas where vegetation 

treatments and large wildfires have created conditions more conducive to motorized access than untreated 

areas. Table 117 summarizes the acres potentially available for unauthorized route creation and 

consequently vegetation disturbance for Alternative 1 by Forest61. 

 

60 The Planning, Appeals, and Litigation (PALS) database and the Schedule of Proposed Actions (SOPA) from April and July 

2009 were used to derive information regarding future actions. Any information related to outstanding appeals and/or litigation 

that may prevent implementation is not incorporated into this table.

61 Some of the acres documented as burned by large wildfires may be covered under recent fire closure orders which 

are not documented as “closed” in the continued existing condition of the proposed action and alternatives. For the 

purpose of this analysis, these burned acres that are not documented as “closed” in the continued existing condition 

were assumed to be open to motorized access. See Chapter 2 for more detail on temporary closures across the 

Forests. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 293

Table 117. Acres of vegetation treatments and large wildfiresa from 2004 – 2008 that may have increased 

motorized access for dispersed camping opportunities under Alternative 1 

Alternative 1 Open to cross-country travel Open to motorized access 

for dispersed camping

Deschutes National Forest

Vegetation treatments 65,197 93,247

Large wildfires 583 583

Total 65,780 93,830

Ochoco National Forest

Vegetation treatments 44,151 53,840

Large wildfires 1,267 1,675

Total 45,418 55,515

Deschutes and Ochoco NF Total 111,198 149,345

a - At the time of this analysis, large wildfire data for 2008 was not available.

Alternatives 2 and 3 – Cross-country travel

Under Alternatives 2 and 3, there would be an indirect benefit to the acres that have been burned by large 

wildfires or have had vegetation treatments in areas with proposed closure decisions about motorized 

access. As with Alternative 1, these vegetation treatments and wildfires may have created conditions that 

are more conducive to motorized access than many untreated areas, and therefore increase the potential 

for these areas to have unauthorized routes created in them. Alternatives 2 and 3 would both eliminate the 

acres of vegetation treatments and acres burned by large wildfires potentially available for cross-country 

travel) and restrict motorized access for dispersed camping to within 300 feet of open designated routes to 

varying degrees (see separate effects of Alternatives 2 and 3 below). Within the remaining area that will 

continue to be open to cross-country travel (i.e. ‘play areas’ or rock/gravel pits), Alternatives 2 and 3 may 

lead to additional disturbance if future vegetation treatments are planned (there have been none in the 

past). This is unlikely as vegetation in these areas is minimal. 

Alternative 2 – Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Alternative 2 may lead to disturbance from motorized vehicles in areas where motorized access for 

dispersed camping would not be subject only to General Provisions. This would be a result of the 

proposed action limiting motorized users in this area and the potential for vegetation treatments (which 

are, for the most part, adjacent to open designated routes) to continue to result in conditions more 

conducive to motorized access in areas that would not be otherwise restricted. This represents a 71 

percent and 86 percent reduction from existing conditions in the acreage of planned vegetation treatments 

or acres burned by wildfires potentially available for motorized access on the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests, respectively. Table 118 summarizes these acres and the percent reduction in acres from 

existing conditions. 

Table 118. Acres of vegetation treatments and large wildfiresa (and the % reduction from existing conditions) 

from 2004 – 2008 that may have increased motorized access for dispersed camping opportunities in areas 

subject only to General Provisions under Alternative 2 

Alternative 2 Acres open to motorized access for dispersed camping – subject only to 

General Provisions (% reduction from existing conditions)

Deschutes National Forest

Vegetation treatments 26,975

Large wildfires 30

Deschutes Total 27,005 (71)

Ochoco National Forest

Vegetation treatments 7,532
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

294 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Alternative 2 Acres open to motorized access for dispersed camping – subject only to 

General Provisions (% reduction from existing conditions)

Large wildfires 173

Ochoco Total 7,705 (86)

Deschutes and Ochoco NF Total 34,710 (77)

a - At the time of this analysis, large wildfire data for 2008 was not available.

Alternative 3 – Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Under Alternative 3, the amount of area available for motorized access for dispersed camping would be 

limited to only those areas with existing, designated or defined sites. This would alter the potential for 

motorized access to affect vegetation management, since vehicles would be restricted to designated, 

existing, and defined dispersed camping sites, limiting future ground disturbance. This represents a 

complete reduction from the existing condition in the total acreage of planned vegetation treatments or 

acres burned by wildfires potentially available for motorized access on both Forests and Grassland. 

Wildlife 

Executive Summary

Analysis of the effects on wildlife and their habitats is guided by various laws, regulations, and Forest 

Service policies. Forest Service Manual (FSM) 2672.42 provides policy and standards for Biological 

Evaluations. Forest Service policy requires an analysis of the effects of the proposed action on threatened 

or endangered species or their occupied habitat or on any unoccupied habitat required for recovery. This 

analysis includes a “determination” of effect to threatened, endangered, and sensitive (TES) species. 

There is no federal action occurring with the No Action Alternative, and therefore there is no similar 

requirement for making a determination of effect under the Endangered Species Act for the No Action 

Alternative. Effects and trends of effects of the existing condition are described in the No Action 

Alternative/Existing Condition which serves as a baseline for comparison with the action alternatives. A 

biological evaluation (BE) was completed describing the effects to threatened, endangered and sensitive 

(TES) fauna species associated with the Travel Management Rule project area on the Deschutes and 

Ochoco National Forests. 

One threatened species, designated critical habitat, and 21 sensitive species, and/or their habitats are 

known or suspected to occur within the project area. The following is a summary of the findings of this 

biological assessment/evaluation of the effects of the proposed alternatives. 

• Alternatives 2 and 3 May Effect, and are likely to have a Beneficial Effect on the northern spotted 

owl and its habitats. Consultation is required since this project type is not covered under the project 

design criteria outlined in the FY2006-2009 Programmatic Biological Assessment.

• Alternatives 2 and 3 May Effect, and are likely to have a Beneficial Effect on designated critical 

habitat (for both the 1992 and 2008 designations) for the northern spotted owl. Consultation is 

required since this project type is not covered under the project design criteria outlined in the 

FY2006-2009 Programmatic Biological Assessment.

• Alternatives 2 & 3 will have a Beneficial Impact to the bald eagle, horned grebe, bufflehead, 

harlequin duck, American peregrine falcon, greater sage grouse, yellow rail, tri-colored blackbird, 

northern waterthrush, California wolverine, Pacific fisher, pygmy rabbit, Oregon spotted frog, Crater 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 295

Lake tightcoil, silver-bordered fritillary, and Johnson’s hairstreak and their habitats for the Deschutes 

National Forest.

• Alternatives 2 and 3 would have No Impact to the Lewis’ woodpecker, white-headed woodpecker, 

and Townsend’s big-eared bat and their habitats for the Deschutes National Forest. 

• Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a Beneficial Impact to the bald eagle, peregrine falcon, Townsend’s 

big-eared bat, and Johnson’s hairstreak and their habitats for the Ochoco National Forest. 

• Alternatives 2 and 3 would have No Impact to the bufflehead, western sage grouse, tri-colored 

blackbird, Lewis’ woodpecker, white-headed woodpecker, upland sandpiper, pygmy rabbit, California 

wolverine, Columbia spotted frog, and silver-bordered fritillary and their habitats for the Ochoco 

National Forest.

• Alternatives 2 and 3 would be consistent with the Deschutes, Ochoco, and Crooked River National 

Grassland Land and Resource Management Plans for all sensitive species.

In addition, management indicator species and species of concern (species identified in the Landbird 

Conservation Strategies (Altman 2000; Altman and Holmes 2000), Birds of Conservation Concern (US

FWS 2008a), and High Priority Shorebirds (US FWS 2004a)) were analyzed. The following is a summary 

of the findings of the wildlife report on the effects of the proposed alternatives.

• Alternatives 2 and 3 would result in decreased disturbance for 17 management indicator species 

(MIS) on the Deschutes and three MIS on the Ochoco while four MIS on the Deschutes and five MIS 

on the Ochoco remain unchanged. 

• Alternatives 2 and 3 would be consistent with the standards and guidelines for the Deschutes, 

Ochoco, and Crooked River National Grassland Land and Resource Management Plans for 

management indicator species. Habitat would not be removed or altered and disturbance would be 

decreased for many species. 

• Alternatives 2 and 3 would result in decreased disturbance for 28 landbird species on the Deschutes 

and 15 landbird species on the Ochoco while nine landbird species on the Deschutes and 21 landbird 

species on the Ochoco remain unchanged. 

• Alternatives 2 and 3 are consistent with the biological objectives outlined in the Conservation 

Strategies for Landbirds of the East-slope Cascades (Altman 2000), Columbia Plateau (Altman and 

Holmes 2000), and Northern Rocky Mountains (Altman 2000a). Habitat would not be removed or 

altered and disturbance is decreased for many species. 

Affected Environment

Central Oregon is a destination location and the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked 

River National Grassland provide for many recreational opportunities ranging from historic uses such as 

hunting to more recent uses like hiking, kayaking, hang gliding, and off-highway vehicle use. Use of the 

forests has been steadily increasing. From 1990-2007, population growth in the tri-county area (Jefferson, 

Deschutes, and Crook counties) increased by 33 percent. It is assumed these counties will continue to 

grow, resulting in increased use of the National Forests and associated roads.

The main effects of roads on wildlife consist of wildlife mortality, direct and indirect loss of habitat, and 

reduced connectivity. Factors influencing the vulnerability of wildlife to mortality on roads include 

species behavior and ecology. Species that are attracted to openings or the edge habitats that roads 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

296 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

provide are more likely to be killed by motor vehicles or their occupants than those species that avoid 

openings for interior forests.

Table 119. Characteristics making a species vulnerable to major effects of roads (Forman et al. 2003)

Characteristics making a Species Vulnerable to Road 

Effects

Main Effects of Roads

Road 

Mortality

Habitat 

Loss

Reduced 

Connectivity

Attraction to Road Habitat X

High Intrinsic Mobility X

Habitat Generalist X

Multiple Resource Needs X X

Low Density/Large Area Requirement X X X

Low Reproductive Rate X X X

Forest Interior Species X X

Behavioral Avoidance of Roads X X

Not all species respond negatively to roads. Animals are attracted to transportation corridors for many 

reasons. These are generally related to habitat, facility of movement, and food resources. For some 

species road corridors may provide additional habitat. New microclimates are often created along roads. 

Habitat enhancements are often included during construction that may benefit some species. Roads do 

provide some benefits but these must be balanced against negative effects of roads.

Table 120 throughTable 123 display threatened and endangered species; sensitive species; management 

indicator species; and landbird species of the Ochoco and Deschutes National Forests for which analysis 

is required.

Table 120. Threatened and endangered species summary

Species Habitat Deschutes or Ochoco

Northern Spotted Owl Old Growth Mixed Conifer Forests Deschutes

Table 121. Sensitive species summary for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River 

National Grassland

Species Habitat Deschutes or Ochoco

Birds

Northern Bald Eagle 

(Haliaeetus leucocephalus) Lakeside with Large Trees Both

Bufflehead 

(Bucephala albeola) Lakes, Snags Both

Harlequin Duck 

(Histrionicus histrionicus) Rapid Streams, Large Trees Deschutes

Horned Grebe 

(Podiceps auritus) Lake Deschutes

Tricolored Blackbird 

(Agelaius tricolor) Lakeside, Bullrush Both

Yellow Rail 

(Coturnicops noveboracensis) Marsh Deschutes

Western Sage Grouse 

(Centrocercus urophasianus phaeios) Sagebrush Flats Both

American Peregrine Falcon 

(Falco peregrinus anatum) Riparian, Cliffs Both

Lewis’ Woodpecker 

(Melanerpes lewis) Large, open ponderosa pine and burned forests Both
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 297

Species Habitat Deschutes or Ochoco

White-headed Woodpecker 

(Picoides albolarvatus) Large, open ponderosa pine Both

Northern Waterthrush 

(Seiurus noveboracensis) Riparian vegetation including willows and alder Deschutes

Upland Sandpiper 

(Bartramia longicauda) Upland fields Ochoco 

Mammals

Pacific Fisher 

(Martes pennanti) Mixed, Complex Deschutes

Pygmy Rabbit 

(Brachylagus idahoensis) Sagebrush Flats Both

California Wolverine 

(Gulo gulo) Mix, High Elevation Both

Townsend’s Big-eared Bat 

(Corynorhinus townsendii) Caves Both

Amphibians

Oregon Spotted Frog 

(Rana pretiosa) Stream, Marsh Deschutes

Columbia Spotted Frog 

(Rana luteiventris) Stream, Marsh Ochoco 

Invertebrates

Crater Lake Tightcoil

(Pristiloma arcticum crateris) Riparian, Perennially Wet Both

Silver-bordered Fritillary 

(Boloria selene atrocostalis) Open riparian bogs and marshes Both

Johnson’s Hairstreak 

(Mitoura johnsonii) 

(Callophrys johnsonii) 

Coniferous forests with mistletoe Both

Table 122. Management indicator species summary for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and 

Crooked River Grassland

Species Habitat Deschutes or Ochoco

Northern Goshawk (Accipiter 

gentiles)

Mature and old-growth forests; especially high 

canopy closure and large trees Deschutes

Coopers Hawk 

(Accipiter cooperi)

Similar to goshawk, can also use mature forests 

with high canopy closure/tree density Deschutes

Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter 

striatus) 

Similar to goshawk in addition to young, dense, 

even-aged stands Deschutes

Great Gray Owl 

(Strix nebulosa)

Mature and old growth forests associated with 

openings and meadows Deschutes

Great Blue Heron

(Ardea herodias)

Riparian edge habitats including lakes, streams, 

marshes and estuaries Deschutes

Golden Eagle

(Aquila chrysaetos) Large open areas with cliffs and rock outcrops Deschutes

Waterfowl* Lakes, ponds, streams Deschutes

Red-tailed Hawk 

(Buteo jamaicensis)

Large snags, open country interspersed with 

forests Deschutes

Osprey

(Pandion haliaetus)

Large snags associated with fish bearing water 

bodies Deschutes

Neotropical Migrants* see Landbirds Various habitats See landbirds

Bats* Forested areas, riparian Deschutes

Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus) Open woodlands Ochoco

Pileated Woodpecker (Dryocopus 

pileatus) Dense, mature forests with large snags and logs Ochoco 

American Marten 

(Martes americana) 

Mixed Conifer or High Elevation late 

successional forests with abundant down woody 

material

Deschutes
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

298 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Species Habitat Deschutes or Ochoco

Elk 

(Cervus elephas) Mixed habitats Deschutes

Mule Deer 

(Odocoileus hemionus) Mixed habitats Deschutes

Snags and Down Wood Associated 

Species and Habitat* or Primary 

Cavity Excavators

Snags and down woody material Deschutes and Ochoco

* - See appendix B-8 (Table 51) for a list of species

Table 123. Landbird species for the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River Grassland

Species Habitat Landbird Plan

White-headed woodpecker Ponderosa Pine - Large patches of old forest 

with large snags

East-Slope Cascade

Rocky Mountains BCR 9

BCR 10

Pygmy nuthatch Ponderosa Pine - Large trees East-Slope Cascade

Rocky Mountains

Chipping sparrow Ponderosa Pine - Open understory with 

regenerating pines

East-Slope Cascade

Rocky Mountains

Lewis’ woodpecker Ponderosa Pine - Patches of burned old forest;

Woodland - Large snags (cottonwood)

East-Slope Cascade

Columbia Basin

Rocky Mountains BCR 9

BCR 10

Brown creeper Mixed Conifer - Large trees East-Slope Cascade

Williamson’s sapsucker Mixed Conifer - Large snags

East-Slope Cascade

BCR 9

BCR 10

Flammulated owl Mixed Conifer - Interspersion grassy openings 

and dense thickets

East-Slope Cascade

BCR 9

BCR 10

Hermit thrush Mixed Conifer - Multi-layered/dense canopy East-Slope Cascade

Olive-sided flycatcher Mixed Conifer - Edges and openings created 

by wildfire

East-Slope Cascade

Rocky Mountains

BCR 10

Black-backed woodpecker Lodgepole Pine - Old growth East-Slope Cascade

Clark’s nutcracker Whitebark Pine - Old growth East-Slope Cascade

Sandhill Crane Meadows - Wet/dry East-Slope Cascade

Red-naped sapsucker Aspen - Large trees with regeneration

East-Slope Cascade

Columbia Basin

Rocky Mountains

Blue Grouse Subalpine fir - Patchy presence East-Slope Cascade

Grasshopper Sparrow Steppe - Native bunchgrass cover Columbia Basin

Loggerhead Shrike Shrub Steppe - Interspersion of tall shrubs and 

openings

Columbia Basin BCR 9

BCR 10

Burrowing Owl Shrub Steppe - Burrows Columbia Basin

Sage Grouse Sagebrush - Large areas of sagebrush with 

diverse understory of native grasses and forbs Columbia Basin

Sage Sparrow Sagebrush - Large unfragmented patches Columbia Basin BCR 9

BCR 10

Brewer’s Sparrow Sagebrush – Sagebrush cover Columbia Basin BCR 9

BCR 10

Sage Thrasher Sagebrush – Sagebrush height

Columbia Basin

BCR 9

BCR 10

Lark Sparrow Shrublands – Ecotonal edges of herb, shrub, 

and tree habitats Columbia Basin
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 299

Species Habitat Landbird Plan

Ferrunginous Hawk Juniper Steppe – Scattered mature juniper 

trees (savannah)

Columbia Basin

BCR 9

BCR 10

Bullock’s Oriole Woodland – Large canopy trees Columbia Basin

Yellow Warbler Woodland – Subcanopy foliage Columbia Basin

Yellow-breasted Chat Woodland – Dense shrub layer Columbia Basin

Willow Flycatcher Shrub – Shrub density; Riparian Shrub – 

Willow/alder shrub patches

Columbia Basin

Rocky Mountains

BCR 10

Lazuli Bunting Shrub – Shrub-herbaceous interspersion Columbia Basin

Gray Flycatcher Juniper Woodland – Mature juniper with 

regeneration Columbia Basin

Prairie Falcon Cliff and Rimrock – Undeveloped foraging 

areas

Columbia Basin

Vaux’s Swift Mesic Mixed Conifer – Large snags Rocky Mountains

Townsend’s Warbler Mesic Mixed Conifer – Overstory canopy 

closure Rocky Mountains

Varied Thrush Mesic Mixed Conifer – Structurally diverse; 

multi-layered Rocky Mountains

MacGillivray’s Warbler Mesic Mixed Conifer – Dense shrub layer in 

forest openings or understory Rocky Mountains

Red-eyed Vireo Riparian Woodland – Canopy foliage and 

structure Rocky Mountains

Veery Riparian Woodland – Understory foliage and 

structure Rocky Mountains

Hermit Thrush Subalpine Forest Rocky Mountains

Upland Sandpiper Montane Meadows Rocky Mountains

Vesper Sparrow Steppe Shrublands Rocky Mountains

Eared Grebe Open water intermixed with emergent 

vegetation BCR 9

Long-billed Curlew Meadow/Marsh BCR 9

BCR 10

Calliope Hummingbird Open mountain meadows, open forests, 

meadow edges, and riparian areas

BCR 9

BCR 10

Green-tailed Towhee Open ponderosa pine with dense brush BCR 9

Pinyon Jay Juniper, juniper-ponderosa pine transition, and 

ponderosa pine edges BCR 9

Swainson’s Hawk Open lands with scattered trees BCR 10

Cassin’s Finch Open coniferous forests from subalpine to 

juniper woodlands BCR 10

General effects will be discussed in this section. General effects will cover broad categories of species and 

those effects common to all alternatives. Species specific effects are discussed in the Biological 

Evaluation and Wildlife Report (Appendix B-8.2 and Appendix B-8.3). Species specific effects are broken 

into sections by status such as federally listed species, sensitive species, management indicator species, 

and species of concern. Federally listed species include federally listed threatened, endangered or 

candidate species. Sensitive species include the Region 6 Regional Forester’s Sensitive Species List of 

2008. Management indicator species are those listed within each forest’s respective Land and Resource 

Management Plan (LRMP). Species of concern include species identified in the Landbird Conservation 

Strategies (Altman 2000; Altman and Holmes 2000), Birds of Conservation Concern (USFWS 2008a), 

and High Priority Shorebirds (USFWS 2004a). When a species is in more than one category, the 

discussion will be found in the more sensitive category. For example the white-headed woodpecker is a 

sensitive species, management indicator species, and species of concern. The analysis for the whiteheaded woodpecker would be found in the sensitive species section of this analysis. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

300 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Scientific Literature Review

Relevant, recent literature was reviewed on the general effects of both motorized and non-motorized use 

of roads on wildlife. However, literature is not available for all species or types of conditions found on the 

Forests. Much of the information used came from Forman et al. (2003), Gaines et al. (2003), AMEC 

(2005), Montana Chapter of the Wildlife Society (Joslin and Youmans 1999), and Ouren et al. (2007). The 

Forman et al. (2003) publication deals primarily with highly traveled, paved roads. Most forest roads are 

not paved or utilized to the extent that paved roads are. Speeds are also much slower on forest roads than 

paved roads and use varies widely across the Forest with some roads rarely utilized. It will be noted 

where effects may be overstated due to the difference in circumstances. 

Ouren et al. (2007), Gaines et al. (2003), and Joslin and Youmans (1999) are all literature reviews or 

bibliographies conducted on the effects of recreation and off-highway vehicle or linear route impacts on 

wildlife species and habitat. The AMEC (2005) publication provided information on the effects of noise 

on wildlife. From the review of literature, it was determined that disturbance from roads has the greatest 

effect on wildlife species and habitat as it relates to the implementation of the Travel Management Rule. 

Therefore, effects will be analyzed and measured by acres of disturbed (within 200 meters of an open 

road) and undisturbed (outside 200 meters either side of an open road) habitat.

Road Data

Roads information for both forests was gathered from the forest engineering department and information 

housed in the Geographic Information System (GIS) for each forest. This information was used to 

determine direct habitat loss, likelihood of direct mortality, and to provide context to the indirect effect of 

habitat loss (habitat quality). Direct habitat loss was calculated by multiplying the average width of forest 

roads by the total miles. This calculation was completed for all roads on the forests and includes both 

closed and open roads. Single lane roads average 14 feet in width while double lane roads average 24 feet 

in width, which includes the shoulder area. 

Road Assumptions

To simplify the analysis, but still adequately capture the impacts, the following assumptions were made 

relative to the average traffic speed and volume (cars/day) use occurring on forest roads on the Deschutes 

and Ochoco National Forests. 

Table 124. Average traffic speed and daily volume rates for Deschutes and Ochoco (including CRNG) NF 

roadsa 

Surface Lanes Average Speed Volume Rate 

(Cars/Day)

Deschutes National Forest

Paved 1 – Single Lane 25 50

2 – Double Lane 50 100

Gravel 1 – Single Lane 35 20

2 – Double Lane 40 25

Improved 1 – Single Lane 30 5

2 – Double Lane 35 10

Native 1 – Single Lane 20 1

2 – Double Lane 25 5

Ochoco NF and Crooked River NG

Paved 1 – Single Lane 45 40

2 – Double Lane 50 50
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 301

Surface Lanes Average Speed Volume Rate 

(Cars/Day)

Gravel 1 – Single Lane 35 20

2 – Double Lane 40 25

Improved 1 – Single Lane 25 2

Native 1 – Single Lane 20 1

a - Calculations were completed on Forest Service roads only. Therefore, State highways and county owned roads were not 

included.

In addition, eight highways maintained by the state run through the forests (Highways 20, 26, 58, 97, 126, 

31, 242, and OR 46). There is more traffic noise along these roadways than along National Forest 

Transportation System roads. The Cascades Lakes Highway (Road 46), the Metolius Basin, the East Fort 

Rock OHV area, McKay Creek, Walton Lake, Big Summit Prairie, and Henderson Flat area also receive 

heavier use and the effects of noise are likely greater adjacent to these roads as well. 

Road Effect Distance (200 meter buffer)

Literature was reviewed to determine at what distance from roads impacts are seen relative to disturbance 

and edge effects. Forman (2000) described a “road effect distance” of 200 meters for secondary roads to 

calculate the indirect loss of habitat and the displacement of many species. Forman also mentions the road 

effect zone is highly variable and is dependent on the species affected, adjacent habitat, road type, and 

traffic volume. Noss and Cooperrider (1994) report edge effects are nonlinear and the zone varies in width 

depending on what is being measured. They report edge effects as great as 240 meters. Therefore, the 200 

meter road effect distance will be used to assess edge effects as well. This distance may over-estimate 

effects for some species and under-estimate effects for others. However, this distance captures known 

effects for many species and provides a relevant measure of change between the existing condition and 

the alternatives. The 200 meter road effect distance will also include effects of motorized access for 

dispersed camping. Vehicles accessing dispersed campsites are usually traveling at a very low rate of 

speed for short distances (no more than 300 feet). Engines are only on for short periods of time and 

therefore, for the purposes of this analysis, effects for the 200 meter road effect zone will include those of 

motorized access for dispersed camping as well. This 200 meter road effect distance will be referred to as 

disturbed habitat in the analysis. 

Closed, Open and High Impact Areas

There are currently few restrictions to cross country travel across the forests except in designated areas 

(e.g. wilderness, research natural areas, fire areas, green dot areas). These designated areas have closure 

orders that prohibit cross-country travel and are classified as closed on the maps and in the analysis. In 

closed areas, just those acres associated with roads and the road effect distance (200 meter buffer either 

side of open roads) was considered disturbed and/or of decreased habitat quality.

The remaining forest was categorized as open. Since, at any time, there may be off-road use regardless if 

there is an established trail, user created or not, roads and trails were not buffered. Analyzing the area as a 

whole will account for the indirect effects of potential disturbance and decreased habitat quality due to 

disturbance rather than buffering just open system roads. 

Because the alternatives close the forests to cross country travel except on designated routes or in 

designated areas, both forests will be classified as closed with acres of disturbance and/or decreased 

habitat quality associated with only open roads and their buffers. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

302 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Wildlife Mortality – Direct and Indirect Effects

Road associated collisions occur between two moving objects – animals and vehicles – with animals 

usually losing, resulting in injury or death. Collisions between animals and vehicles are commonly 

reported and affect a wide range of species, from large mammals to amphibians (Gaines et al. 2003). Most 

research regarding wildlife mortality related to roads centers around paved roads with high speed limits. 

However, little research is available regarding unpaved roads with slower speed limits. There are few 

systematic records of wildlife road kill mortality, so it is unclear what significance this has on wildlife 

populations. 

The factors affecting road mortality of wildlife can be separated into two categories: 1) traffic, road, and 

landscape influences, and 2) species behavior and ecology. 

Traffic, road and landscape influences

Collisions are influenced by vehicle speed and traffic volume Studies have shown greater impacts with 

increasing speeds (Forman et al. 2003: 219, 783, 147, 440, 466, Mazerolle 2004). Most Forest Service 

roads are not paved and are designed for low speed limits. There is a low probability of wildlife mortality 

caused by vehicles on these roads except for those smaller, less mobile species (amphibians, reptiles, and 

some small mammals). The probability of vehicle caused mortality increases on Forest Service arterial 

roads as these are paved roads designed for increased speed limits (>50 mph). 

Wildlife mortality relates to direct mortality from collisions primarily from high-speed roads. There are 

290 miles of National Forest System Road (NFSR) paved roads within the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests and the Crooked River National Grassland. The probability of vehicle caused mortality 

increases with 90-150 cars/day traveling 25-50 mph. Approximately 377 miles of double lane roads occur 

where the average speed is ≥40 mph. The probability of mortality increases with increased speed limits 

and increased traffic volume.

The highest probability of vehicle caused mortality occurs on the State highways that pass through 

National Forest System lands. A survey conducted by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 

(ODFW) in cooperation with the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has documented 

approximately 770 known mule deer mortalities along a 100 mile stretch of Highway 97 from October 

2005 to July 2008. However, this may only be a proportion of the known deer kills. Forman et al. (2003) 

suggest the number of unreported deer mortalities can range from 50 percent to six times the reported 

number. Other studies have estimated up to 15 times the reported number. This ODFW study is using a 

factor of five times the reported number which accounts for pregnant does hit in the spring and represents 

two to three deer killed (S.Wray pers. comm. March 31, 2009). 

Species behavior and ecology

Some species are more vulnerable to being killed than others. Species that occur in low densities and have 

low reproductive rates are more susceptible to additional mortality (i.e. large carnivores) (Forman et al. 

2003: 519, 1051, 325). In addition, higher mobility species appear to be more vulnerable to road 

mortality. Traffic volume has been found to have greater effects on highly mobile population densities 

compared too little effect on less mobile species (Forman et al. 2003: 143, 144). 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 303

Habitat generalists, like deer and elk, are also more vulnerable to road mortality. This may be explained 

by the tendency of habitat generalists to venture more readily into unfamiliar habitats like roads, than a 

habitat specialist. For example, species that avoid open habitats (i.e. roads) are less vulnerable to road 

mortality. 

Natural and seasonal movement patterns may lead to road mortality especially during specific seasons 

like spring and fall migrations of deer between summer range and winter range. Conrad and Gipson 

(2006) found that animal behavior and abundance was more influential in determining the frequency of 

wildlife-vehicle collisions than seasonal changes in traffic volumes, especially in areas with lower traffic 

volumes. In another example, more long-tailed weasels were killed on highways and roads in eastern 

Washington during the summer breeding season when mobility was increased (Forman et al. 2003). 

Amphibians/Reptiles

Amphibian and reptile road caused mortalities are probably underrepresented in mortality counts due to 

their size and because scavengers may remove traces of them quickly (Forman et al. 2003; Mazerolle 

2004). Frogs, toads, and snakes are susceptible to road kill, especially during seasonal migrations 

(Forman et al. 2003: 522, 412, 30; Mazerolle 2004; Joslin and Youmans 1999). The probability of 

amphibians being killed on a busy highway has been found to be between 89 and 98 percent (Forman et 

al. 2003: 412). 

Carnivores

Road kill impacts are more serious when species are threatened or endangered or of great conservation 

concern. Wide-ranging carnivores are particularly vulnerable to traffic accidents. Road kill mortality as a 

result of collisions has been found to be a large factor in Florida panthers, ocelots, cougars in California, 

Iberian lynx, and wolves in Minnesota (Forman et al. 2003: 585, 414, 61, 284, 340). The Oregon 

Department of Transportation has very few records of carnivores killed on Highway 97 in Deschutes and 

Klamath counties. According to dispatch records from 1999 through 2006, only three bears were reported 

out of 40 records. The majority of mortalities consisted of coyotes and a few badgers. However, caution 

should be used as the dispatch records are not specifically designed to collect road kill data. 

Conclusion

There are currently no plans to reduce or increase the number of paved roads on either the Deschutes or 

Ochoco National Forests. Mortality on the paved roads and highways is likely to increase as traffic 

volume increases. On-going studies for highway expansions and improvements should include travel 

ways for wildlife that could mitigate the effect of increased traffic. Habitats away from roads that provide 

for healthy populations will be important to offset road mortalities.

Habitat Loss – Direct and Indirect Effects

Habitat loss relates to direct loss of habitat from the roads and road prisms. This loss of habitat has 

occurred throughout various habitat types and affects to species varies. See Table 125 for the acres of 

direct habitat lost on the forests. This does not include non-system, user-created roads that may exist on 

the landscape.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

304 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 125. Acres of direct habitat lost as a result from roads and road prisms

Deschutes National 

Forest

Ochoco National 

Forest Total

Total Forest Acres 1,613,040 723,905 2,336,945 

Open Road Miles 6,132 1,886 8,018 

Acres 11,151 3,296 14,447 

Closed Road Miles 2,050 1,358 3,408 

Acres 3,482 3,833 7,315 

Total Miles of Road 8,182 3,244 11,426 

Total Acres of Habitat Lost 14,633 7,129 21,762 

Road Construction

Road construction results in the direct loss of habitat and could result in indirect habitat loss of 

surrounding habitat. Some species are more vulnerable to habitat loss than others. Large, long-lived 

species with large area requirements, low densities, and low reproductive rates (i.e. carnivores) are a 

prime example (Forman et al. 2003: 342, 325). Interior dependent species are vulnerable to declining 

patch size which results in an increased edge effect (Forman et al. 2003: 66). Roads being long and linear 

create a lot of edge habitat that results in an additional loss of suitable habitat for those interior dependent 

species (Forman et al. 2003: 752, 760). Species mobility also affects how vulnerable they are to habitat 

loss. Some studies suggest more mobile species are able to cope better to habitat loss (Forman et al. 2003: 

387). However, when factoring in a high rate of mortality of individuals in “non-habitat” (non-suitable 

habitat in the surrounding matrix), highly mobile species are actually more vulnerable to habitat loss than 

less mobile species (especially when roads are present and the mortality rate is high in matrix) (Forman et 

al. 2003: 302, 82, 349).

Conclusion

Road construction rates on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Grassland are low. Most 

projects occurring now utilize existing roads or employ the use of temporary spurs which are obliterated 

after projects are complete. Therefore, additional habitat loss from the construction of new roads will be 

minimal in the foreseeable future.

Habitat Quality – Direct and Indirect Effects

Road Disturbance

Roads alter the quality of habitat adjacent to them primarily as a result of noise from traffic disturbance. 

The road effect zone, depending on species, could extend up to hundreds of meters from the road. Within 

this zone many species exhibit lower breeding densities and reduced species richness. Considering the 

road density plus the total area of avoidance zones, the ecological impact of road avoidance exceeds the 

impact of road kills or direct habitat loss from road corridors (Forman and Alexander 1998). This is 

known as the “road-effect zone” (Forman 2000). Forman (2000) also describes the “road effect distance” 

which is the distance that a significant effect extends from a road. The distances for which effects are seen 

in wildlife species vary. However, Forman (2000) cited a road effect zone for secondary roads of 200 

meters, indicating this is a rough estimate for a highly variable zone. It should be noted however that 

secondary roads were defined as having a traffic volume of 10,000 vehicles/day or less which is far 

greater than occurs on NFSR roads. Forman calculated that approximately 19 percent of the total area of 

the United States is directly affected ecologically by roads and associated vehicle traffic and he noted 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 305

roads in rural areas show a greater ecological effect than those occurring in more urban areas. The road 

effect distance can equate to reduced habitat quality for some species and habitat loss for others.

Noise

Noise is a major factor in wildlife displacement and avoidance of habitat. Noise can be defined as any 

“human-made sound that alters the behavior of animals or interferes with their normal functioning” 

(Bowles in Knight and Gutzwiller 1995). Effects of noise on most wildlife species is poorly understood 

(AMEC 2005). The potential effects of noise on wildlife include:

• Acute or chronic physiological damage to the auditory system (hearing loss)

• Increased energy expenditure

• Physical injury incurred during panicked responses

• Interference with normal activities, such as feeding and breeding

• Impaired communication among individuals and groups

• Increase in stress hormones

• Altered behaviors (AMEC 2005, Forman and Alexander 1998)

The impacts of these effects may include habitat loss through avoidance, reduced reproductive success, 

and mortality (AMEC 2005). 

Decreased Sensitivity to Sound

An animal’s sensitivity to sound varies with the frequency band to which it is most sensitive (AMEC 

2005). Sound is usually measured in decibels (dB) and can vary with distance from the source due to a 

variety of factors like topography, weather, features that act as barriers (trees), volume, and the source 

(AMEC 2005). Noise emitted from many OHVs today can reach as high as 90 dBs (V. Ramming, pers. 

comm. February 14, 2008). Although sounds from OHVs are not the loudest sounds, they are emitted 

more frequently in wildlife habitats than other high intensity sounds (Brattstrom and Bondello 1983 in 

Ouren et al. 2007), and effects on animals can be significant. For example, sand lizards and kangaroo rats 

exposed to playback recordings of dune buggies at lower decibels than they would have been actually 

exposed to experienced hearing loss for weeks after and were unresponsive to predator sounds 

(Brattstrom and Bondello 1983 in Ouren et al. 2007).

Communication Confusion

Human made noise has the potential of interfering with animal communication signals, sounds animals 

listen to for orientation, and for predator-prey detection (Erbe et al. 1999 in AMEC 2005). For example, 

Reynolds et al. (1992) has shown that human disturbance near northern goshawk nests is a suspected 

cause of nest abandonment. Noisy environments can cause problems with intra-species communication 

(i.e. breeding season), and can interfere with detection, discrimination, and localization of appropriate 

signals (Wollerman 1998 in AMEC 2005). This could have severe effects on populations whose numbers 

are already low (AMEC 2005). Vehicle noise may indirectly cause mortality by eliminating a species’ 

ability to detect and capture necessary food items and detect and avoid predators (Joslin and Youmans 

1999). In addition, ambient (background) noise affects the distance at which vocalizations, human-made 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

306 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

noises, and other sounds can be detected (AMEC 2005). Ambient noise in terrestrial environments 

includes sounds like animal calls and songs (e.g. birds, frogs, and insects), water, and wind (AMEC 

2005). At times, OHV noise may simulate natural sounds (e.g. thunder) to which animals are adapted and 

result in negative effects. In a study conducted by Brattstrom and Bondello (1983 in Ouren et al. 2007), 

spadefoot toads subjected to taped motorcycle sounds emerged prematurely from their burrows during the 

wrong season (absence of rain). 

Physiological effects

Noise may lead to physiological effects (functions and activities of life) and shifts in the use of available 

habitat (Barton and Holmes 2007; Fletcher et al. 1999, Eigenbrod et al. 2007; Forman et al. 2003; and 

Gaines et al. 2003). Road corridors resulting in reduced habitat quality express effects by either a decrease 

in abundance or density of breeding individuals or by behavioral responses like road avoidance (Forman 

et al. 2003; McGregor et al. 2008, Barton and Holmes 2007; Fletcher et al. 1999, and Eigenbrod et al. 

2007). 

Stress

Responses to noise disturbance may have physiological impacts on wildlife. Animals exhibit increases in 

stress hormones from disturbance related to roads. Studies have shown that species closer to roads or 

living in areas of high road densities have increased stress hormones (spotted owls Wasser et al. 1997) 

and reduced reproductive success (mule deer, Yarmoloy 1988 in Ouren et al. 2007).

Impacts of short-term effects of noise disturbance on individuals and populations are unknown. For some 

species, brief interruptions in normal behavior may have little effect on reproductive success or energy 

expenditure. Noises resulting in one-time acute responses are less likely to have population level effects 

than sounds to which animals are exposed repeatedly over extended periods of time (OSB 2003 in AMEC 

2005). In contrast, Forman and Alexander (1998) state that responses to roads with little traffic (individual 

vehicles periodically passing) may elicit behavioral responses similar to those exhibited during acute 

disturbances rather than the effects of chronic disturbance along roads.

Habitat Loss

Habitat loss is a potential impact of noise disturbance on wildlife. Studies on ungulates and carnivores 

have shown heavily traveled roads are avoided or used little in comparison to lightly traveled roads 

(Forman et al. 2003: 797, 615, 913, 579, 350, 302, Rowland et al. 2005). Large mammals tend to have 

lower population densities within 100-200 meters of roads and other animals seem to avoid roads (i.e. 

arthropods, small mammals, birds) (Forman and Alexander 1998, Barton and Holmes 2007, Eigenbrod et 

al. 2007, Fletcher et al. 1999, Joslin and Youmans 1999, Gaines et al. 2003, and Ouren et al. 2007). 

Mountain goats were found to run away from the road edge when truck gears were being shifted over 0.6 

miles away (Lyren 2001 in Ouren et al. 2007). 

Breeding birds are heavily affected by traffic disturbance (i.e. noise) and studies have shown reduced 

densities near highways and trails (Forman et al. 2003: 699, 660, 767, 768, 294; Barton and Holmes 2007, 

Joslin and Youmans 1999). Birds are reported to show the most dramatic negative responses to road noise 

proportionate to the level of traffic (Kaseloo 2006). In one study, seven of 12 grassland bird species had 

reduced breeding densities near roads (van der Zande et al. 1980, Reijnen et al. 1995) and in a Boston 

study, breeding density of at least two grassland bird species declined with increasing traffic volume 

(Kaseloo 2006). In addition, 26 of 43 woodland bird species showed declines in population density with 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 307

increasing traffic volumes (Reijnen and Foppen 1995 in Kaseloo 2006). Van der Zande et al. (1980) found 

four shorebird species in open grassland areas were disturbed within 500-600 meters of a quiet rural road 

and within 1,600-1,800 meters of a busy highway. This resulted in populations being decreased as much 

as 60 percent over these distances. Reijnen et al. (1995) reported the road effect distance in open habitats 

may extend to more than 1,000 meters and up to several hundred meters in woodlands (Reijnen and 

Thissen 1987) in areas with high traffic volumes. In addition, Miller et al. (1998 in Joslin and Youmans 

(1999) identified the zone of influence for songbirds as 75-100 meters. Barton and Holmes (2007) found 

daily abandonment rates of songbird nests was four times higher at nests <100 meters from motorized 

trails than those >100 meters away. 

Hutto (1995) reported that brown creepers and golden-crowned kinglets were twice as likely to occur in 

habitats >100 meters from a road while Foppen and Reijnen (1994) found roads and motorized trails 

influenced bird reproduction to a distance of 200 meters. Gaines et al. (2003) also used 200 meters on 

either side of roads as an index to evaluate the effects of displacement and avoidance for species that use 

late-successional habitats (e.g. northern goshawk, northern spotted owl, brown creeper, pygmy and whitebreasted nuthatches, and white-headed woodpecker). Rodgers and Smith (1995) found great blue herons 

reacted more to humans on foot than traffic and flushed at a mean distance of 32.0 + 12.3 meters. They 

recommended a 100 meter setback to limit disturbance near nesting colonies. The 250 meter zone of 

influence for waterfowl species used by Gaines et al. (2003) was based on distances at which waterfowl 

and colonial nesters have been observed to be affected by human disturbance (Hamann et al. 1999, Kelly 

1992, Markham and Brechtel 1979, Rodgers and Smith 1995, and Vos et al. 1985). Dubois and 

Hazelwood (1987 in Joslin and Youmans 1999) recommended buffer distances of 0.4 – 1.2 km around 

nests during the nesting season for raptors. Holmes et al. (1993 in Joslin and Youmans 1999) 

recommended a 14-190 meter buffer to avoid flushing golden eagles from perches while foraging.

Access for Predators

Mortality can also increase in habitats near roads for some species. There is increased human contact with 

animals resulting in intentional or accidental killing. Roads provide greater access for both humans and 

predators to previously unaccessed habitats (Forman et al. 2003: 579, 115, 451,742). Roads and trails 

used during the winter by snowmobiles often result in snow compaction and may provide access routes 

for competitors and predators to areas used by species like lynx (Gaines et al. 2003). Roads and trails may 

facilitate access for falconers to remove young raptors from nests (Erdman et al. 1998 in Gaines et al. 

2003) and result in increased poaching of animals, particularly big game (Cole et al. 1997, ODFW pers. 

comm. January 28, 2010). Roads and trails are used by trappers and increase the vulnerability of species 

like fisher and marten to overharvest (Gaines et al. 2003). Habituation may occur if the stimulus occurs 

repeatedly with benefits (e.g. access to food) and without negative effects.

Conclusion

A 200 meter buffer was applied to all open system roads on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests 

regardless of road surface, travel speed or use parameters. This is to display the road effect distance where 

effects to wildlife species are the greatest. See Table 126 for the total forest acres, acres included in the 

road effect distance, and the percentage of each forest affected by the road effect distance.

Table 126. Total acres included in the ‘road effect’ distance (200m) for the Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forests

Forest Total Forest Acres Acres within Road Effect 

Distance

Percent of Each Forest in 

Road Effect Distance
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

308 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Forest Total Forest Acres Acres within Road Effect 

Distance

Percent of Each Forest in 

Road Effect Distance

Deschutes 1,613,040 713,532 44%

Ochoco 723,905 245,834 34%

Over one third of National Forest System lands on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests lie within 

this buffer, resulting in disruption of life functions and activities to various degrees for many species.

In addition to State highways and county owned roads running through the two forests, there are 

approximately 527 miles of road on the Deschutes and 607 miles of road on the Ochoco that have a traffic 

volume of > 20 cars/day which may result in increased habitat avoidance due to noise increased stress 

levels, and increased habitat loss due to avoidance.

Improved Habitat Quality – Indirect Effects

Not all species respond negatively to roads. Some species show positive responses to roads; and road 

corridors may provide additional habitat for some species. For example, at times red-winged blackbirds 

are more abundant near roads (Forman et al. 2003: 162). In some cases, rodents appear to be either 

unaffected or positively influenced by roads. New microclimates are often created along roads. Ditches 

serving as wetlands provide habitat for amphibians, bridges provide habitat for bats, and plants seem to 

prefer certain substrates (Forman et al. 2003). Animals are attracted to transportation corridors for many 

reasons. These are generally related to habitat, facility of movement, and food resources. Habitat 

enhancements are often included during construction that may benefit some species. For example, perches 

are often constructed to provide additional perching habitat for raptors, and fencing may increase forage 

and cover for small mammals (Forman et al. 2003: 8). Increased nitrogen levels are associated with 

heavily traveled roads (Forman et al. 2003: 23). This has a positive effect for insects and grasshoppers 

(Forman et al. 2003: 737) and produces high quality forage for herbivores. Increased populations of small 

mammals can lead to increased numbers of predators like coyotes and hawks. Collisions may increase 

where animals are foraging adjacent to roads and road kill provides additional food resources for 

scavengers. Human feeding attracts some species like coyotes, bears, and ravens. This feeding may be 

intentional or a result of food thrown out or garbage occurring along the road. This may lead to 

habituation of some animals which may lead to other effects. Roads do provide some benefits but these 

must be balanced against negative effects of roads

Connectivity and Barriers – Indirect Effects

Landscape connectivity relates to the amount of fragmentation and/or disruption of movement from road 

associated barriers.

Landscape connectivity is the degree to which the landscape facilitates animal movement and other 

ecological flows (Forman et al. 2003: 494, 905, 302, 400, 73). High landscape connectivity is a landscape 

that has few barriers and where animals move freely. High landscape connectivity is important because 

multi-habitat organisms move through the landscape to different habitat types in order to meet daily and 

life needs (Forman et al. 2003: 232). Barriers that impede movement (i.e. roads) result in higher mortality, 

lower reproductive success, and smaller populations. High landscape connectivity also allows for 

movements to re-populate areas that have experienced local declines or extinctions, and minimizes 

inbreeding (Forman et al. 2003: 1035, 520, 73). Barriers to movement result in habitats that are devoid of 

populations or contain smaller populations than could be supported. This increases the probability of 

species loss.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 309

Little is known about the long-term effects of roads on animal populations in terms of reduced mobility, 

increased isolation, and/or splitting of gene pools. Isolation caused by physical barriers (i.e. roads) to 

movement can reduce gene flow leading to genetic effects (Forman et al. 2003: 31, 1009). Reducing gene 

flow between populations results in negative effects of inbreeding or inbreeding depression which often 

results in weak or sterile offspring. Riley et al. (2006) conducted a study to determine at what level busy 

freeways create physical and social barriers to gene flow in two highly mobile carnivores (coyote and 

bobcat). They found that high survival rates, small home ranges, high home range overlap, and barrier 

effects of the freeway resulted in territory packing along hard boundaries (freeway). This produced social 

and behavioral barriers to dispersers in that dispersers were unlikely to obtain and hold territories near the 

freeway. Therefore, roads reduced the gene flow below the expected migration rates.

Permeability

Individual behavior and habitat requirements often influence when animals cross roads. Traffic volume 

may be a key factor in determining corridor permeability (susceptibility of being crossed) of all roads, 

especially for large mammals (Forman et al. 2003). For some animals, high traffic volumes pose barriers 

while others may shift behavior and cross during low traffic volumes. Crossings are also influenced by 

adjacent habitat quality (Forman et al. 2003: 350, 107). Some studies show secondary and unpaved roads 

have little effect on movement of large mammals and are more permeable than paved roads (Forman et al. 

2003: 115, 78, 107, 350). However, Rowland et al. (2005) reported elk avoid areas near open roads with 

bulls exhibiting a stronger avoidance than cows (Marcum and Edge 1991 in Rowland et al. 2005). This 

may be similar for small mammals and amphibians. Road width affects movements of some small 

mammals. McGregor et al. (2008) found small mammals avoid the road surface rather than traffic noise. 

Most individuals translocated across the road did not return but densities did not decrease near the road 

and the road instead acted as a barrier to movement and funneled movement along the road edge. Roads 

have been shown to alter or preclude amphibian seasonal movements to breeding ponds (Gibbs 1998, Vos 

and Chardon 1998 in Ouren et al. 2007). Jaeger et al. (2005 in McGregor et al. 2007) surmised the type of 

avoidance (road itself or traffic) is critical to predicting effects of roads on population persistence. If roads 

create barriers to movement, this could reduce the likelihood or speed of recolonization of empty forest 

patches. 

Another factor influencing the barrier effect is the relative permeability of the road and the adjacent edge 

habitat. Edge effects can be realized in a variety of impacts including habitat fragmentation, barriers to 

movement, altered predator/prey relationships, removal of critical habitat components, increased 

mortality, increased accessibility to competitors and predators into areas not previously accessed, and 

impacts from noise disturbance. Edge effects from roads and trails extend well beyond the actual road 

footprint (Reed et al. 1996). 

Movement may depend upon the abruptness of the edge and the species habitat needs (Forman et al.

2003). Demaynadier and Hunter (1998 in Joslin and Youmans 1999) found salamanders, frogs, and toads 

were all negatively affected by forest edges but found salamanders were much more sensitive to abrupt 

forest edges than frogs or toads. Barrier effects of roads affect species differently depending on the 

animal’s behavior, dispersal ability, and population density (Forman et al. 2003). A species’ dispersal 

ability – the distance it can move and its ability to move through matrix habitat – affects patch occupancy 

patterns (Joslin and Youmans 1999). Semlitsch (1998 in Joslin and Youmans 1999) found six species of 

Ambystoma salamanders varied in their dispersal and use of habitat surrounding ponds. Some of the 

species dispersed and used terrestrial habitat up to 250 meters from the pond edge. In addition, Hart et al. 

(1998 in Joslin and Youmans 1999) found northern alligator lizards were positively affected by forest 

edges and had increased dispersal rates near road edges. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

310 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Fragmentation

Roads contribute to forest fragmentation by dissecting large patches into smaller patches. This results in 

decreased interior forest habitat and increased edge habitat (Askins et al. 1987, Small and Hunter 1988, 

Schonewald-Cox and Buechner 1992, and Askins 1994, in Joslin and Youmans 1999, Reed et al. 1996). 

Habitat fragmentation from corridors (roads) reduces a species capacity by disrupting continuous forest 

cover and reducing space required by interior species. Patch size and distribution can determine the 

probability that a patch may be occupied (Laan and Verboom 1990, Fahrig 1998 in Joslin and Youmans 

1999). The degree of patch isolation is negatively associated with patch occupancy (Sjogren 1991, Vos 

and Stumpel 1995, and Branch et al. 1996 in Joslin and Youmans 1999). For example, ditches meant to 

drain forest areas between frog ponds isolated them even though the distance between was not altered 

(Sjogren-Gulve and Ray 1996 in Joslin and Youmans 1999). Rich et al. (1994 in Joslin and Youmans 

1999) found roads measuring 16 meters wide had an effect on songbirds. Hutto (1996) found that some 

songbirds may occur less commonly in smaller forest patches than in larger forest patches. Hickman 

(1990 in Joslin and Youmans 1999) found similar results as Hutto but on trails 2-3 meters wide. 

Riparian areas are usually areas of high diversity. Fragmentation of riparian habitats by roads may create 

greater impacts on the landscape. Patch size is reduced and roads may separate important habitat 

associations between the uplands and riparian areas. Connected riparian and upland habitats are more 

effective in meeting habitat needs for a large variety of songbirds (Hutto 1995). 

Road edges may also serve as ecological traps (Andrews 1990 in Ouren et al. 2007). These areas may 

have the necessary resources for species occupation but impose high mortality rates. For example, some 

bird species are attracted to roadsides due to the lush vegetation for nesting and foraging (Clark and Karr 

1979 in Ouren et al. 2007). Although the area contains suitable habitat, these individuals are at increased 

risk of mortality from being hit by vehicles (Mumme et al. 2000 in Ouren et al. 2007). In addition, bird 

nests in these areas are susceptible to increased mortality due to high predation rates (Yahner et al. 1979 

in Ouren et al. 2007).

Roads may act as barriers for some species while aiding in the dispersal of other native and non-native 

species. For example, the construction of the United States interstate highway system created avenues for 

dispersal of grassland species due to the adjacent dense grass habitat (Forman et al. 2003). Roads can also 

promote the increased distribution of wildlife populations unlikely to be common in an area which may 

exert additional competitive pressure on native species (Ouren et al. 2007). Rich et al. (1994 in Ouren et 

al. 2007) found corridors attracted brown-headed cowbirds and nest predators to the corridors and the 

adjacent forest interior. Predation rates may also increase in small patches as these are easier for predators 

to penetrate. Adjacent roads provide travel corridors into forested habitat from nearby areas (Small and 

Hunter 1988, Askins 1994 in Joslin and Youmans 1999). 

Roads can affect predator-prey associations. Wolves are less abundant in areas with high road densities 

(Forman et al. 2003: 908, 456, 618, 644). However, in areas with little human use, roads provide easy 

travel routes and access to prey (Forman et al. 2003: 913, 415). The presence of infrastructure along roads 

can also alter predator-prey relationships. Knight and Kawashima (1993 in Ouren et al. 2007) found 

ravens increased their distribution throughout the Mojave Desert. They perched on utility structures along 

roads to scan for carcasses. Berry et al. (1986 in Ouren et al. 2007) reported ravens as responsible for 68-

75 percent of the mortality among juvenile desert tortoises on two plots. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 311

Conclusion

Currently, Highway 97 is creating a barrier to movement for many wildlife species, especially big game. 

As human use continues to increase across the two forests, the other State highways (20, 26, 58, and 126) 

and highly traveled arterials (Metolius Basin area, Cascade Lakes Highway, Sunriver area, McKay Creek, 

and Big Summit Prairie) are likely to become barriers as well. Impacts to local mule deer herds have been 

documented, with declining populations associated with difficulty in crossing Highway 97. As human use 

increases, it is likely wildlife species have shifted their behavior to cross highly used arterials during low 

traffic volume periods or are crossing at other locations resulting in the avoidance of suitable habitat 

patches. 

Fragmentation is moderate to high across the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. Roads have 

resulted in smaller patch sizes with few large patches remaining (i.e. Newberry Monument, Oregon 

Cascades Recreation Area, Mt. Bachelor, roadless areas, Lookout Mountain Management Area, 

Rock/Cottonwood, and wilderness areas). This has resulted in increased edge habitat with 44 percent of 

the Deschutes and 34 percent of the Ochoco within the road effect distance.

Comparison of Alternatives

The following section displays the comparison of alternatives for TES, MIS, and landbird species. In most 

cases, potentially suitable habitat acres were analyzed for each species. In some cases, habitat allocations 

were used.

Northern Spotted Owl

Nesting, Roosting, and Foraging Habitat 

Implementation of the action alternatives would greatly reduce disturbance to nesting, roosting, and 

foraging (NRF) habitat overall for the spotted owl. As can be seen from Table 127, there would be a 58 

percent decrease in disturbance to nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat across the forest. In addition, 

there would be a 30 percent decrease in disturbance to nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat in the 2008 

critical habitat units (CHU) and a 4 percent decrease in the historic (1992) critical habitat units. Nesting, 

roosting, and foraging habitat within late-successional reserves (LSR) shows a 7 percent decrease in 

disturbance to habitat while home ranges show a 3 percent decrease. Overall, there would be a beneficial 

effect to suitable nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat across the forest.

Table 127. Nesting, roosting, and foraging (NRF) habitat comparison for Alternatives 2 and 3 (Deschutes NF)

NRF Habitat Alt. 1 – No-action Undisturbed NRF 

Acres

Alts. 2 & 3 – Action Alternatives 

Undisturbed NRF Acres

NRF 5% 63%

NRF – CHU 20% 50%

NRF – Historic CHU 46% 50%

NRF – LSR 45% 52%

NRF-Home Ranges 55% 58%

Late-Successional Reserves

Implementation of the action alternatives would reduce disturbance within late-successional reserves. As 

can be seen from Table 128, there would be a 14 percent decrease in disturbance to habitat within latesuccessional reserves across the forest overall. In addition, implementation of the action alternatives 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

312 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

resulted in 4 late-successional reserves with decreased disturbance to habitat overall (Brown’s Mountain, 

Davis, Metolius, and Three Creeks) (Table 128). Implementation of the action alternatives resulted in two 

late-successional reserves with decreased disturbance to nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat (Brown’s 

Mountain and Metolius) while disturbance in the remaining late-successional reserves remained constant 

as many were already closed to travel off designated routes.

Table 128. Late-successional reserve and nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat within LSRs comparison for 

Alternatives 2 and 3 (Deschutes NF) 

Late-Successional 

Reserve

Alt. 1 – 

Undisturbed Acres

Alts. 2 & 3 –

Undisturbed Acres

Alt. 1 –

Undisturbed NRF 

Acres

Alts. 2 & 3 –

Undisturbed NRF 

Acres

Cultus 58% 58% 48% 48%

Sheridan 42% 42% 57% 57%

Brown’s Mtn. 2% 61% 9% 71%

Round Mtn. 87% 87% 92% 92%

Davis 13% 58% 50% 50%

Crescent 33% 33% 22% 22%

Upper Big Marsh 97% 97% 97% 97%

Lower Big Marsh 85% 85% 0 0

Metolius 41% 46% 39% 50%

Cache-Trout 38% 38% 47% 47%

Three Creeks 33% 78% 99% 99%

Critical Habitat Units

Implementation of the action alternatives would result in an overall decrease in disturbance to habitat in 

both the historic and 2008 critical habitat units (CHU). There would be a 2 percent decrease in 

disturbance to habitat in the historic critical habitat units. Specifically, only one historic critical habitat 

unit (OR-3) resulted in decreased disturbance to habitat while the remaining historic and 2008 critical 

habitat units remained constant. Disturbance decreased in nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat within 

the 2008 and two historic critical habitat units (OR-3 and OR-6) while the remaining historic critical 

habitat units remained constant. 

Table 129. Historic and 2008 critical habitat unit and nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat in critical 

habitat units comparison for Alternatives 2 and 3 (Deschutes NF)

Critical Habitat Unit Alt. 1 – No-action

Undisturbed Acres

Alts. 2 & 3 – Action 

Alternatives 

Undisturbed Acres

Alt. 1 – No-action

Undisturbed NRF 

Acres

Alts. 2 & 3 – Action 

Alternatives 

Undisturbed NRF 

Acres

2008 CHU 48% 48% 20% 50%

OR-3 40% 49% 36% 53%

OR-4 45% 45% 46% 46%

OR-5 46% 46% 54% 54%

OR-6 54% 54% 46% 47%

OR-7 55% 55% 49% 49%

Home Ranges

Implementation of the action alternatives would result in a decrease in disturbance to habitat overall. 

There would be a 2 percent decrease in disturbance to habitat in spotted owl home ranges as a whole. 

Disturbance would be decreased in three home ranges (Saddle Butte, Moore Creek Trail, and Castle 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 313

Rocks) while disturbance would be decreased to nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat in three home 

ranges (Big Marsh, Moore Creek Trail, and Suttle).

Table 130. Home range and nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat within home ranges comparison for 

Alternatives 2 and 3 (Deschutes NF) 

Home Range Alt. 1 – No-action

Undisturbed Acres

Alts. 2 & 3 – Action 

Alternatives 

Undisturbed Acres

Alt. 1 – No-action

Undisturbed NRF 

Acres

Alts. 2 & 3 – Action 

Alternatives 

Undisturbed NRF 

Acres

Cultus Mountain 72% 72% 78% 78%

Applejack 72% 72% 78% 78%

Benchmark 12% 12% 23% 23%

Deer Lake 75% 75% 46% 46%

Sheridan Mountain 56% 56% 79% 79%

Lucky Lake 86% 86% 100% 100%

Three Trappers Butte 17% 17% 27% 27%

McCool Butte 55% 55% 47% 47%

Hamner Butte 41% 41% 39% 39%

Ringo Butte 55% 55% 51% 51%

Maklaks Mountain 58% 58% 43% 43%

Moore Creek 58% 58% 50% 50%

Crescent Lake 90% 90% 100% 100%

Saddle Butte 32% 35% 29% 29%

Big Marsh 93% 93% 78% 97%

Royce Mountain 63% 63% 65% 65%

Moore Creek Trail 36% 78% 37% 43%

Cappy Mountain 98% 98% 97% 97%

Willamette Pass 66% 66% 47% 47%

Trapper Creek 89% 89% 64% 64%

Castle Rocks 67% 78% 67% 67%

Candle Creek 100% 100% 100% 100%

Jefferson Lakes 95% 95% 73% 73%

Trout Creek 41% 41% 43% 43%

Davis Creek 48% 48% 69% 69%

Bluegrass Butte 27% 27% 37% 37%

Suttle 25% 25% 35% 38%

Suttle 96 36% 36% 30% 30%

Suttle South 23% 23% 2% 2%

Obsidian 48% 48% 43% 43%

Black Crater 73% 73% 86% 86%

Determination-Northern Spotted Owl

Alternatives 2 and 3 would reduce disturbance to nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat overall, as well as 

to nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat within late-successional reserves and home ranges. In addition, 

disturbance would be reduced within late-successional reserves and home ranges overall outside nesting, 

roosting, and foraging habitat. Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a May Effect, and likely a Beneficial 

Effect to spotted owls and their habitat. 

Determination-Critical Habitat Units 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would reduce disturbance to nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat within critical 

habitat units overall, both in the 2008 and 1992 critical habitat units. In addition, disturbance would be 

reduced within critical habitat units outside nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat. Alternatives 2 and 3 

would have a May Effect, and likely a Beneficial Effect to the 2008 and 1992 critical habitat units.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

314 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Big Game

Alternatives 2 and 3 would greatly reduce disturbance in management area (MA) 7. As shown in Table 

131 and Table 132, there would be a 38 percent decrease in disturbance throughout this area. In addition, 

8 of the 11 key elk habitat areas on the Deschutes National Forest showed a potential decrease in 

disturbance while the remaining three remained constant. Overall, there would be an 18 percent decrease 

in disturbance for the total key elk habitat area acres across the Forest. General forest winter range is the 

only allocation to show a decrease in disturbance on the Ochoco National Forest, improving from 13

percent to 78 percent of the area now undisturbed. Winter range, Metolius deer winter range, and antelope 

winter range all remained constant. This is due to those areas of the forest already being closed to crosscountry travel prior to the implementation of Alternatives 2 or 3. Alternatives 2 and 3 are consistent with 

the standards and guidelines for the Deschutes, Ochoco, and Crooked River National Grassland Land and 

Resource Management Plans for big game. Motorized traffic would be limited to designated routes, road 

densities would remain unchanged, habitat would not be removed or altered and disturbance would be 

decreased.

Table 131. Deschutes NF - MA-7 

Big Game Allocation

Alternative 1 – No-action

Undisturbed Habitat

Deschutes

Alternatives 2 and 3 – Action 

Alternatives Undisturbed Habitat

Deschutes

MA-7 – Deschutes NF 12% 50%

Table 132. Deschutes NF – Key Elk Habitat Areas

Key Elk Habitat Area

Alternative 1 – No-action

Undisturbed Habitat

Deschutes

Alternatives 2 and 3 – Action 

Alternatives Undisturbed Habitat

Deschutes

Clover Meadow 84% 89%

Crane Prairie 49% 49%

Davis 46% 56%

Fall River 46% 56%

Fly 20% 39%

Hemlock 57% 65%

Kiwa Butte 87% 87%

Lower Metolius 59% 59%

Maklaks 57% 84%

Ryan Ranch 8% 47%

Tumalo Mtn. 100% 100%

Table 133. Ochoco NF – Winter Range

Big Game Winter Range Area

Alternative 1 – No-action

Undisturbed Habitat

Ochoco

Alternatives 2 and 3 – Action 

Alternatives Undisturbed Habitat

Ochoco

Metolius Deer Winter Range 65% 65%

General Forest Winter Range 13% 78%

Winter Range 80% 80%

Antelope Winter Range 52% 52%

Sensitive Species, MIS, and Landbirds

Overall, there would be a decrease in disturbance to wildlife species across both Forests. Alternatives 2 

and 3 would result in decreased disturbance to 61 species on the Deschutes NF and 31 species on the 

Ochoco NF while 16 species on the Deschutes and 41 species on the Ochoco remain constant. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 315

Alternatives 2 and 3 would result in decreased disturbance for 16 sensitive species on the Deschutes and 4 

sensitive species on the Ochoco while 3 sensitive species on the Deschutes and 10 sensitive species on the 

Ochoco remain unchanged. Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a Beneficial Impact to the bald eagle, 

horned grebe, bufflehead, harlequin duck, peregrine falcon, western sage grouse, yellow rail, tri-colored 

blackbird, northern waterthrush, California wolverine, Pacific fisher, pygmy rabbit, Oregon spotted frog, 

Crater Lake tightcoil, silver-bordered fritillary, and Johnson’s hairstreak and their habitats for the 

Deschutes National Forest. Alternatives 2 and 3 would have No Impact to the Lewis’ woodpecker, whiteheaded woodpecker, and Townsend’s big-eared bat and their habitats on the Deschutes National Forest. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a Beneficial Impact to the bald eagle, peregrine falcon, Townsend’s bigeared bat, and Johnson’s hairstreak and their habitats for the Ochoco National Forest. Alternatives 2 and 3 

would have No Impact to the bufflehead, western sage grouse, tri-colored blackbird, Lewis’ woodpecker, 

white-headed woodpecker, upland sandpiper, pygmy rabbit, California wolverine, Columbia spotted frog, 

and silver-bordered fritillary and their habitats for the Ochoco National Forest.

Table 134. Summary of conclusion of impacts, Region 6 sensitive species, Alternatives 2 and 3 for the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland

Species Alternatives 2 & 3

Deschutes NF Ochoco NF

Northern Bald Eagle BI BI

Horned Grebe BI -

Bufflehead BI NI

Harlequin Duck BI -

American Peregrine Falcon BI BI

Western Sage Grouse BI NI

Yellow Rail BI -

Tri-colored Blackbird BI NI

Lewis’ Woodpecker NI NI

White-headed Woodpecker NI NI

Northern Waterthrush BI -

Upland Sandpiper - NI

California Wolverine BI NI

Pacific Fisher BI -

Pygmy Rabbit BI NI

Townsend’s Big-eared Bat NI BI

Oregon Spotted Frog BI -

Columbia Spotted Frog - NI

Crater Lake Tightcoil BI NI

Silver-bordered Fritillary BI NI

Johnson’s Hairstreak BI BI

Alternatives 2 and 3 would result in decreased disturbance for 17 management indicator species (MIS) on 

the Deschutes and three MIS on the Ochoco while four MIS on the Deschutes and five MIS on the 

Ochoco remain unchanged. Alternatives 2 and 3 would be consistent with the standards and guidelines for 

the Deschutes, Ochoco, and Crooked River National Grassland Land and Resource Management Plans for 

management indicator species. Habitat would not be removed or altered and disturbance would be 

decreased for many species. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would result in decreased disturbance for 28 landbird species on the Deschutes and 

15 landbird species on the Ochoco while 9 landbird species on the Deschutes and 21 landbird species on 

the Ochoco remain unchanged. Alternatives 2 and 3 would be consistent with the biological objectives 

outlined in the Conservation Strategies for Landbirds of the East-slope Cascades (Altman 2000), 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

316 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Columbia Plateau (Altman and Holmes 2000), and Northern Rocky Mountains (Altman 2000). Habitat 

would not be removed or altered and disturbance is decreased for many species.

Table 135. Comparison of alternatives for undisturbed habitat 

Species Alternative 1 

Deschutes

Alternatives 2 and 3 

Deschutes

Alternative 1 

Ochoco

Alternatives 2 and 3 

Ochoco

acres

(%)

Sensitive Species

Northern Bald Eagle 6,749

(26%)

13,796

(53%)

1,992

(38%)

4,312

(82%)

Bufflehead 11,367

(26%)

28,615

(65%)

28,032

(55%)

28,032

(55%)

Harlequin Duck 955

(4%)

11,556

(44%) NA NA

Horned Grebe 11,895

(14%)

50,813

(59%) NA NA

Tricolored Blackbird 6,731

(14%)

29,297

(61%)

9,980

(54%)

9,980

(54%)

Yellow Rail 3,967

(9%)

25,638

(61%) NA NA

Western Sage Grouse 5,889

(58%)

6,560

(65%)

44,434

(71%)

44,432

(71%)

American Peregrine 

Falcon 

11,743

(93%)

12,022

(95%)

1,110

(74%)

1,595

(80%)

Lewis’ Woodpecker 2,716

(38%)

2,716

(38%)

2,826

(63%)

2,826

(63%)

White-headed 

Woodpecker 

12,773

(35%)

12,773

(35%)

5,541

(67%)

5,541

(67%)

Northern Waterthrush 6,408

(13%)

21,746

(45%) NA NA

Upland Sandpiper NA NA 5,888

(53%)

5,888

(53%)

Pacific Fisher 3,038

(73%)

3,481

(83%) NA NA

Pygmy Rabbit 5,889

(58%)

6,560

(65%)

44,434

(71%)

44,432

(71%)

California Wolverine 86,473

(93%)

89,763

(97%) NA NA

Townsend’s Big-eared 

Bat 

13,145

(45%)

13,145

(45%)

1,110

(56%)

1,594

(80%)

Oregon Spotted Frog 15,414

(17%)

43,898

(49%) 0 0 

Columbia Spotted Frog NA NA 32,626

(54%)

32,626

(54%)

Crater Lake Tightcoil 12,570

(17%)

39,510

(54%)

44,652

(58%)

44,652

(58%)

Silver-bordered Fritillary 4,147

(10%)

25,818

(61%)

9,414

(56%)

9,414

(56%)

Johnson’s Hairstreak 7,632

(4%)

87,330

(44%)

15,190

(21%)

56,324

(76%)

Management Indicator Species

Northern Goshawk 92, 596

(33%)

108,296

(39%)

14,607

(20%)

17,578

(24%)

Coopers Hawk 170,753

(61%)

170,696

(61%)

14,148

(21%)

52,472

(76%)

Sharp-shinned Hawk 63,623

(19%)

188,227

(55%)

7,194

(6%)

88,840

(69%)
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 317

Species Alternative 1 

Deschutes

Alternatives 2 and 3 

Deschutes

Alternative 1 

Ochoco

Alternatives 2 and 3 

Ochoco

acres

(%)

Great Gray Owl 7,632

(4%)

87,330

(44%)

15,190

(21%)

56,324

(76%)

Great Blue Heron 18,492

(20%)

57,897

(61%)

43,124

(55%)

43,124

(55%)

Golden Eagle 7,518

(14%)

27,864

(52%)

36,175

(43%)

49,666

(59%)

Waterfowl 18,492

(20%)

57,897

(61%)

43,124

(55%)

43,124

(55%)

Red-tailed Hawk 2,716

(38%)

2,716

(38%)

2,826

(63%)

2,826

(63%)

Osprey 6,127

(15%)

22,850

(55%)

20,384

(53%)

20,384

(53%)

Pileated Woodpecker 57,885

(64%)

71,880

(80%)

229

(49%)

408

(87%)

Northern Flicker 10,170

(41%)

10,149

(41%)

7,673

(66%)

7,672

(66%)

American Marten 56,793

(74%)

64,554

(85%)

7,286

(32%)

18,309

(81%)

Long-eared Myotis 6,574

(22%)

15,488

(51%)

2,118

(39%)

4,450

(82%)

Long-legged Myotis 5,760

(90%)

6,118

(96%)

108

(80%)

116

(86%)

Silver-haired Bat 212

(10%)

992

(48%) 0 3(60%)

Williamson’s sapsucker 14,757

(37%)

14,754

(37%)

5,239

(66%)

5,239

(66%)

Hairy Woodpecker 14,027

(6%)

123,374

(51%)

112,942

(63%)

112,936

(63%)

Black-backed 

woodpecker

4,333

(1%)

302,226

(52%)

6,881

(3%)

140,322

(68%)

Three-toed Woodpecker 21,014

(4%)

315,510

(53%)

2,123

(1%)

131,770

(67%)

Red-naped sapsucker 3,045

(45%)

3,949

(59%)

1,076

(37%)

1,078

(37%)

Downy Woodpecker 3,045

(45%)

3,949

(59%)

1,076

(37%)

1,078

(37%)

Landbirds

Pygmy nuthatch 589

(0%)

84,065

(42%)

12,734

(21%)

46,922

(76%)

Chipping sparrow 79,960

(42%)

79,824

(42%)

110,166

(61%)

110,159

(61%)

Brown creeper 92,497

(30%)

185,645

(60%)

14,623

(21%)

54,176

(76%)

Flammulated owl 37,741

(38%)

37,735

(38%)

6,293

(14%)

32,395

(73%)

Olive-sided flycatcher 14,027

(6%)

123,374

(51%)

112,942

(63%)

112,936

(63%)

Clark’s nutcracker 86,473

(93%)

89,763

(97%) NA NA

Sandhill Crane 10,564

(21%)

32,726

(65%)

15,302

(55%)

15,302

(55%)

Blue Grouse 33,968

(36%)

52,866

(57%)

5,863

(70%)

6,177

(73%)

Loggerhead Shrike 720

(69%)

720

(69%)

44,121

(46%)

56,878

(60%)
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

318 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Species Alternative 1 

Deschutes

Alternatives 2 and 3 

Deschutes

Alternative 1 

Ochoco

Alternatives 2 and 3 

Ochoco

acres

(%)

Burrowing Owl 720

(69%)

720

(69%)

44,121

(46%)

56,878

(60%)

Sage Sparrow 5,889

(58%)

6,560

(65%)

44,434

(71%)

44,432

(71%)

Brewer’s Sparrow 5,889

(58%)

6,560

(65%)

44,434

(71%)

44,432

(71%)

Sage Thrasher 5,889

(58%)

6,560

(65%)

44,434

(71%)

44,432

(71%)

Lark Sparrow 5,889

(58%)

6,560

(65%)

892

(1%)

53,469

(72%)

Ferruginous Hawk 7,355

(14%)

26,697

(52%

939

(60%)

937

(60%)

Bullock’s Oriole 5,822

(10%)

26,126

(47%)

45,496

(57%)

45,496

(57%)

Yellow Warbler 5,822

(10%)

26,126

(47%)

45,496

(57%)

45,496

(57%)

Yellow-breasted Chat 51,239

(15%)

188,257

(55%)

136,935

(62%)

136,927

(62%)

Willow Flycatcher 8,640

(14%)

29,843

(48%)

45,496

(57%)

45,513

(57%)

Lazuli Bunting 8,640

(14%)

29,843

(48%)

45,496

(57%)

45,513

(57%)

Gray Flycatcher 185,290

(50%)

185,264

(50%)

42,120

(62%)

42,115

(62%)

Prairie Falcon 11,743

(93%)

12,022

(95%)

1,110

(74%)

1,595

(80%)

Vaux’s Swift 57,885

(64%)

71,880

(80%)

229

(49%)

408

(87%)

Townsend’s Warbler 92,497

(30%)

185,645

(60%)

14,623

(21%)

54,176

(76%)

Varied Thrush 90,885

(63%)

116,938

(81%)

13,649

(28%)

39,103

(79%)

MacGillivray’s Warbler 51,239

(15%)

188,257

(55%)

136,935

(62%)

136,927

(62%)

Red-eyed Vireo 5,822

(10%)

26,126

(47%)

45,496

(57%)

45,496

(57%)

Veery 51,239

(15%)

188,257

(55%)

136,935

(62%)

136,927

(62%)

Hermit Thrush 90,885

(63%)

116,938

(81%)

13,649

(28%)

39,103

(79%)

Vesper Sparrow 720

(69%)

720

(69%)

44,121

(46%)

56,878

(60%)

Eared Grebe 6,973

(39%)

13,620

(75%)

233

(52%)

233

(52%)

Long-billed Curlew 3,248

(72%)

3,704

(82%)

1,997

(8%)

14,925

(63%)

Calliope Hummingbird 10,564

(21%)

32,726

(65%)

15,302

(55%)

15,302

(55%)

Green-tailed Towhee 720

(69%)

720

(69%)

44,121

(46%)

56,878

(60%)

Pinyon Jay 185,290

(50%)

185,264

(50%)

42,120

(62%)

42,115

(62%)

Swainson’s Hawk 7,355

(14%)

26,697

(52%

939

(60%)

937

(60%)

Cassin’s Finch 10,170

(41%)

10,149

(41%)

7,673

(66%)

7,672

(66%)

Percentages represent a percentage of total habitat acres for each species
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 319

Range 

Executive Summary

This section summarizes the analysis of the effects from implementing the actions proposed in this EIS on 

range activities on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, and Crooked River National Grassland 

Under Alternatives 2 and 3, the majority of the acreage that affects grazing operations would be closed to 

motorized travel off designated routes (see Table 136 below and Appendix B-7 (Tables 57 and 58). Based 

upon past observations it is expected that this would result in a considerable reduction in the amount of 

damage to range improvements (both intentional and accidental) as well as a proportionate reduction in 

damage to permitted domestic livestock associated with motorized access. Both alternatives would result

in an indirect reduction of the spread and establishment of invasive plant species, as rangeland plant 

associations tend to be highly susceptible and sensitive to invasive plant infestation and invasion (see 

invasive plants section).

Table 136. Summary of cross-country access (approximate acres) by allotment status and Forest

Allotment Status Forest Number of 

Allotments

Closed to Crosscountry TravelOpen to Crosscountry Travel

Active

Deschutes 6 132,000 37,000

Ochoco 66 231,000 408,000

Combined 72 363,000 445,000

Vacant

Deschutes 19 190,000 204,000

Ochoco 6 2,500 5,300

Combined 25 192,500 209,300

Cumulatively, Alternative 2 is expected to result in overall improved distribution of domestic livestock 

and a net positive impact on grazing and grazing operations. This is expected because the action 

alternatives would reduce obstacles to livestock travel and increase forage quantity and improve forage 

quality. The Special Provision in Alternative 3 limiting motorized access for dispersed camping in riparian

areas, would be expected to slightly reduce the dispersal of cattle (on active cattle allotments) associated 

with occupied dispersed campsites. 

Cumulatively the effects of Alternative 3 would be indistinguishable from Alternative 2.

Affected Environment

The Deschutes National Forest administers 34 grazing allotments, of which six are active, 19 are vacant, 

and nine are closed to permitted livestock grazing. The Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River 

National Grassland, administer 79 grazing allotments, of which 66 are active, six are vacant, and seven 

are closed to permitted livestock grazing. Of the 72 active grazing allotments on both Forests, 68 are 

cattle allotments, three are sheep allotments (Canyon Creek, Reservoir and Trout Creek on the Lookout 

Mountain Ranger District) and one is a saddle and draft horse allotment (East Winter on the Crooked 

River National Grassland). (Appendix B-9 lists Allotment Status by Forest and District.)

On the active grazing allotments, six on the Deschutes National Forest and sixty six on the Ochoco 

National Forest (including the Crooked River National Grassland), approximately 132,000 acres and 

231,000 acres respectively are currently closed to motorized travel off designated routes and 

approximately 37,000 acres and 408,000 acres, respectively, are open at least seasonally to motorized 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

320 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

travel off designated routes. On the vacant grazing allotments, 19 on the Deschutes National Forest and 

six on the Ochoco National Forest (including the Crooked River National Grassland), approximately 

190,000 acres and 2,500 acres, respectively, are currently closed to motorized travel off designated routes 

and approximately 204,000 acres and 5,300 acres, respectively, are open at least seasonally to motorized

travel off designated routes. A comparison will not be conducted for grazing allotments in a closed status 

because the potential to impact grazing and/or grazing operations within closed allotments is very low. 

The table below summarizes this information.

Tables 53 and 54 in Appendix B-9 (Range) present cross-country travel (acres) information in greater 

detail for both forests respectively.

On the active grazing allotments, six on the Deschutes National Forest and 66 on the Ochoco National 

Forest (including the Crooked River National Grassland), approximately 45,000 acres and 162,000 acres, 

respectively, are currently closed to motorized access for dispersed camping and approximately 123,000 

acres and 475,000 acres, respectively, are open at least seasonally to motorized access for dispersed 

camping. On the vacant grazing allotments 19 on the Deschutes National Forest, approximately 108,000 

acres and 2,200 acres, respectively, are currently closed to motorized access for dispersed camping and 

approximately 286,000 acres and 5,600 acres are open at least seasonally to motorized access for 

dispersed camping, while approximately 600 acres on the Deschutes National Forest are open to 

motorized access for dispersed camping at designated sites only. 

Table 137. Summary of motorized access for dispersed camping (approximate acres) by allotment status and 

Forest

Allotment Status Forest Number of 

Allotments

Closed to 

Motorized Access 

for Dispersed 

Camping

Open to 

Motorized Access 

for Dispersed 

Camping

Designated Sites 

for Dispersed 

Camping

Active

Deschutes 6 45,000 123,000 0

Ochoco 66 162,000 475,000 0

Combined 72 207,000 598,000 0

Vacant

Deschutes 19 108,000 286,000 600

Ochoco 6 2,200 5,600 0

Combined 25 110,200 291,600 600

Current allotments for both Forests are displayed on Figure 37 .
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 321

Figure 37. Range map showing current allotments

Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 323

Grazing, Roads and Dispersed Recreation

Cattle use roads/roadsides (both open and closed) as a route for travel/movement. Roads are used to a 

greater degree by cattle as routes for longer trailing and as slopes increase and/or vegetation makes off 

road travel more difficult. Sheep are generally affected to a lesser degree by obstructing vegetation and 

prefer moderate to steeper slopes. Cattle typically avoid campsites where human activity is occurring 

although they will readily enter campsites where no activity is occurring. Sheep will generally be 

unaffected by campsites and human activity and will go where they are herded.

Range improvement functionality is imperative for the management of cattle, although it is of much less 

importance for managing sheep. Both water developments and fences are placed in order to provide for 

control and dispersal of cattle. Cattle will typically only utilize forage with a half a mile to a mile from 

water. The lower end of this range is applicable on landscapes where travel is more difficult (steeper 

slopes, more vegetative obstruction), while the higher end of this range applies to landscapes where travel 

is easier (flatter with less trees and brush) (Valentine 1989)(USDA and USDI 1989). Fences keep cattle 

within certain areas and out of other areas. Therefore fences are management tools that help regulate the 

timing, amount and location of grazing by cattle. The functionality of either type of range improvement is 

impacted by the public at large. 

Table 138 presents several common ways that the integrity of range improvements are compromised by 

the public at large (personal observations of the Range Conservationist).

Table 138. Incidents that compromise range improvement functionality

Range Improvement Type Common Incidents That Compromise Functionality

Spring development

Troughs shot.

Troughs stolen.

Water pipes diverted to RVs.

Dispersed camp sites prevent livestock access.

Wells

Switches turned off.

Switches turned on resulting in burned out pumps.

Switches turned on in the winter and system charged resulting in frozen and broken 

lines.

Drain valves opened.

Power cable stolen.

Meter box vandalized.

Steel post/barbed wire fence

Steel posts stolen out of fence.

Fence cut.

Gates left open.

Objects placed over wire to hold it down.

Motor vehicle driving through fences both intentionally and accidentally.

Corrals and Post/pole 

fences

Fences cut with chainsaws for firewood.

Gates stolen.

Corrals used by recreating public for horses/pack animals.

Livestock harassment and even the killing of livestock is another impact to grazing and/or grazing 

operations that appears to be correlated to the presence and density of general members of the public on 

the landscape.

Analysis of Environmental Effects

The greatest potential for impact of the activities under analysis on rangeland vegetation is in the indirect 

effect on the spread and establishment of invasive plant species. Rangeland plant associations (non-
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

324 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

forested plant associations) tend to be highly susceptible and sensitive to invasive plant infestation and 

invasion. Please refer to the invasive plants report and discussions in the EIS for descriptions of the 

affected environment and alternative effects relative to invasive plants and their affect on non-forest plant 

associations.

Alternative 1

Under the no-action alternative, the acreage open and closed to motorized travel off designated routes and 

open and closed to motorized access for dispersed camping will remain the same as described under the 

Affected Environment section. 

The ability to manage livestock grazing is reduced and grazing operations are impacted when incidents of 

damage to range improvements coincide with active grazing operations (grazing allotments in active 

status). Table 136 above and Tables 53 and 54 in Appendix B-9 illustrate the existing acreage open and 

closed to motorized travel off designated routes both within active allotments (currently grazed) and 

vacant allotments (possibly grazed in the future). 

The potential effect of dispersed camping on grazing and grazing operations from dispersed camping is 

expected to be mixed. Because cattle tend to avoid occupied campsites, and because dispersed campsites 

have a higher probability of occurring within primary range (typically valley bottoms in near proximity to 

a water source), increased dispersed camping may improve cattle distribution within any given pasture 

(there would not be any anticipated impact on sheep allotments). However, as preferred dispersed 

campsites become fully occupied it is anticipated that there would be an increase in the occupancy of less 

desirable sites including within water lots (areas designed to be an access for livestock to water). 

Occupancy of dispersed campsites within water lots renders the range improvement nonfunctional having 

a negative effect on grazing and/or grazing operations. This type of impact would be most pronounced 

where stock water is a limiting resource, and becomes of less importance as water becomes more 

available and abundant. 

Alternatives 2 and 3

Under Alternatives 2 and 3, an additional 63,265 acres of the six active grazing allotments on the 

Deschutes National Forest and an additional 438,468 acres of the sixty six active grazing allotments on 

the Ochoco National Forest (including the Crooked River National Grassland) that are currently open to 

cross-country travel would be closed. On the vacant grazing allotments, 19 on the Deschutes National 

Forest and six on the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland, an additional 231,169 acres and 5,302 acres 

respectively, that are currently open to motorized travel off designated routes would be closed to travel off 

designated routes. A comparison will not be conducted for grazing allotments in a closed status because 

the potential to impact grazing and/or grazing operations within closed allotments is very low. The table 

below summarizes the total acreage open and closed to motorized travel off designated routes by 

allotment status and Forest.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 325

Table 139. Summary of cross-country access (approximate acres) by allotment status and Forest under 

Alternatives 2 and 3

Allotment Status Forest Number of 

Allotments

Closed to Crosscountry TravelOpen to Crosscountry Travel

Active

Deschutes 6 168,000 400

Ochoco 66 637,000 20

Combined 72 805,000 420

Vacant

Deschutes 19 395,000 0 

Ochoco 6 7,800 0 

Combined 25 402,800 0 

Tables 57 and 58 in Appendix B-9 (Range) present cross-country travel (acres) information in greater 

detail for both Forests, respectively, under Alternatives 2 and 3.

Observations of past damage to range improvements and incidents of livestock harassment, injury, and 

mortality indicates that acreage open to cross-country travel may be used as an index related to the 

amount of damage (both intentional and accidental) rendered upon range improvements as well as the 

amount of harassment and killing of livestock by general members of the public. Under Alternatives 2 and 

3, the majority of the acreage with the 72 active grazing allotments and all of the acreage within the 25 

vacant grazing allotments on both Forests would be closed to motorized travel off designated routes (see 

Tables 57 and 58 in Appendix B-9). It is expected that this would result in a considerable reduction in the 

amount of damage of range improvements (both intentional and accidental) as well as a proportionate 

reduction in the amount and degree of harassment and killing of permitted domestic livestock short 

through long term.

Alternative 2

Under Alternative 2 an additional 422,000 acres would be closed to motorized access for dispersed 

camping on the six active grazing allotments on the Deschutes National Forest and the 66 active grazing 

allotments on the Ochoco National Forest and Grassland. Of the remaining acreage on active grazing 

allotments, 56,700 have Special Provisions limiting where dispersed camping may occur. Also, under this 

alternative approximately 162,000 acres would be closed to motorized access for dispersed camping on 

the 19 vacant grazing allotments on the Deschutes National Forest and the six vacant grazing allotments 

on the Ochoco National Forest (including the Crooked River National Grassland). Of the remaining 

acreage on vacant grazing allotments, approximately 24,400 have Special Provisions limiting where 

dispersed camping may occur. As a result, livestock dispersal associated with occupancy of dispersed 

camp sites may be reduced, potentially resulting in livestock meeting utilization standards in portions of 

primary range where they have not previously, short through long term.

Table 140 below summarizes acreage open and closed to motorized access for dispersed camping as well 

as those areas open but limited by Special Provision. These are listed by allotment status and forest.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

326 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 140. Summary of motorized access for dispersed camping (approximate acres) by allotment status and 

Forest under Alternative 2 

Allotment Status Forest Number of 

Allotments

Closed to 

Motorized Access 

for Dispersed 

Camping

Open to 

Motorized Access 

for Dispersed 

Camping

Designated 

Sites and 

Special 

Provisions for 

dispersed 

Camping

Active

Deschutes 6 105,000 39,000 7,700

Ochoco 66 524,000 65,000 49,000

Combined 72 629,000 104,000 56,700

Vacant

Deschutes 19 266,000 105,000 24,000

Ochoco 6 6,200 1,200 400

Combined 25 272,200 106,200 24,400

Tables 59 and 60 in Appendix B-9 (Range) present motorized access for dispersed camping (acres) 

information in greater detail for both Forests respectively for Alternative 2.

Cumulatively, the reduction of damage to range improvements and of harassment and killing of livestock 

in combination with past, present and future wildlife, fuels, silvicultural and watershed enhancement 

vegetation management projects is expected to result in overall improved distribution of domestic 

livestock and a net positive impact on grazing and grazing operations. This is expected because these 

projects tend to decrease obstacles to livestock travel but increase forage quantity and improve forage 

quality particularly in the uplands. 

Alternative 3

Alternative 3 is the same as Alternative 2 except it limits all motorized access for dispersed camping that 

was open in Alternative 2 to limited by Special Provision in Alternative 3. This would be expected to 

further slightly reduce the dispersal of cattle (on active cattle allotments) associated with occupied 

dispersed campsites short through long term.

Table 141. Summary of motorized access for dispersed camping (approximate acres) by allotment status and 

Forest under Alternative 3 

Allotment Status Forest Number of 

Allotments

Closed to 

Motorized Access 

for Dispersed 

Camping

Open to 

Motorized Access 

for Dispersed 

Camping

Designated 

Sites and 

Special 

Provisions for 

dispersed 

Camping

Active

Deschutes 6 105,000 0 47,000

Ochoco 66 524,000 0 114,000

Combined 72 629,000 0 161,000

Vacant

Deschutes 19 266,000 0 129,000

Ochoco 6 6,200 0 1,600

Combined 25 272,200 0 130,600

Cumulatively the effects of Alternative 3 would be indistinguishable from Alternative 2. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 327

Fire Risk

Executive Summary

This report considers the current condition along with the direct and indirect effects of the proposed 

action and alternatives on fire risk across the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. Alternatives 2 and 

3 would have no direct and some indirect effects on fire risk. Ignitions associated with motorized access 

or caused by ejected sparks or direct contact with vegetation from motorized vehicles would be limited to 

motorized vehicles operating where motorized use would be allowed. That area would be within 300 feet 

of open designated routes or areas proposed to be open to cross-country travel (i.e., rock/gravel pits). It is 

most likely that under Alternatives 2 and 3, the total number of unplanned human-caused ignitions 

associated with motorized access across the administrative units per year would likely remain the same or 

increase with projected increases in forest use, but would tend to be shifted from the broader landscape 

and be more concentrated in the previously mentioned areas where motorized use would be allowed. 

However, Alternatives 2 and 3 would not affect non-motorized travel, so the effect of this is not directly 

quantifiable. Under the no action Alternative, as urban populations and Forest use increases into the 

future, unplanned human-caused ignitions from both motorized and non-motorized users, would likely 

also increase. System roads currently open to public use that do not have an existing decision to close 

them, would remain open under these alternatives. Therefore, access to ignitions by suppression resources 

would not be affected by Alternatives 2 and 3. Further, use of any fire, military, emergency, or law 

enforcement vehicle for emergency purposes is exempt from this decision (See Chapter 2 – Exemptions 

or Exceptions Identified by the Travel Management Rule). Alternatives 2 and 3 could lead to the eventual 

elimination of unauthorized roads and trails that could function as preliminary fuel/fire breaks from which 

to more safely and/or efficiently access an ignition, build a fire line, or perform a burn-out operation, if an 

ignition were to occur. However, since vegetation recovery is slow absent any specific rehabilitation 

efforts, it is expected that these areas would exist for 10 years or more, depending on the site conditions. 

Under the no-action alternative, creation of unauthorized routes and use of these unauthorized routes by

suppression resources would continue. 

Affected Environment

Human-Caused Ignition Sources

Unplanned human-caused ignitions from both motorized and non-motorized users contribute significantly 

to the acreage burned across the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. Historical point fire occurrence 

records from the Deschutes National Forest from 1987 to 200762 show that nearly half of all ignitions are 

unplanned and human-caused. On the Ochoco National Forest from 1986 to 2007, unplanned humancaused ignitions are markedly less; accounting for approximately one-quarter of the total ignitions. 

However, the Deschutes National Forest also encompasses more than two times as much land as the 

Ochoco National Forest. Regardless of acreage, historical records show that human-caused ignitions per 

10,000 acres are greater on the Deschutes National Forest compared to the Ochoco National Forest, 

highlighting the connection between unplanned human ignitions and proximity to population centers 

(Table 142). Additionally, unplanned human-caused starts on the Deschutes National Forest have 

generally increased over the last 21 years while those on the Ochoco National Forest have remained 

somewhat constant (Figure 38). Campfires are documented as the most prevalent known cause of 

 

62 Fire occurrence records are available from 1980 to present; however, at the time of this analysis, records outside of the years 

shown in the table, are missing documentation of the fire cause. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

328 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

unplanned human ignitions from both motorized and non-motorized users across both units. Specific 

areas of high use and at a high risk to fire, as it pertains to this proposed action, are identified by the 

Deschutes National Forest63 Land and Resource Management Plan and include (USDA Forest Service

1990): 

• Major travel ways during the summer period; 

• Firewood cutting areas during late spring and early summer; and

• Areas where there are deer hunters in the fall

Table 142. Historical fire occurrence on the Deschutes (1987 – 2007) and Ochoco National Forests (1986 – 

2007) 

Administrative Unit No. of ignitions

(% unplanned human-caused)

Deschutes National Forest 4,191

(46)

Equipment 60

Smoking 296

Campfire 833

Debris burning 72

Arson 174

Children 34

Misc. (but human-caused) 460

Not documented 6

Total humana 1,935

Approximate Human 

ignitions/10,000 acres 12

Lightning 2,256

Ochoco National Forest 

(including Crooked River NG)

2,159

(25)

Equipment 28

Smoking 63

Campfire 311

Debris burning 13

Arson 17

Children 6

Misc. (but human-caused) 111

Total Human* 549

Approximate Human 

ignitions/10,000 acres 8 

Lightning 1,610

a - excluding ignitions caused by railroad

 

63 The Land and Resource Management Plans for the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland do not 

specifically identify areas of high use and high fire risk. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 329

Figure 38. Unplanned human-caused ignitions on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests

Human-Caused Ignitions and Motorized Access

While the connection between unplanned human-caused ignitions and motorized access cannot be directly 

inferred from these statistics (see appendix B-10), literature has shown that vegetation or ground fuels that 

come in direct contact with a hot engine or exhaust system or a spark from a hot engine or exhaust system 

may smolder and eventually ignite (USDA Forest Service 2007, Pitts 2007). Spark arresters 64, which are 

required on all vehicles intended for off-highway use on National Forest System lands in Oregon (OPRD 

2009), pulverize carbon particles to a size (<0.023 inches) which decreases the likelihood of glowing or 

flaming combustion from ejected sparks. Spark arresters do not decrease the likelihood of ignitions from 

direct contact with vegetation (i.e., parking on or driving through brush or grass) and during periods of 

high fire danger, spark arresters will not provide complete protection against exhaust spark fires (USDA 

Forest Service 2007). During these periods, Forests may implement use restrictions to prevent ignitions. 

Additionally, all class II OHVs (e.g., Jeeps or SUVs) intended for off-highway use must carry a functional 

dry chemical type fire extinguisher with at least two pounds capacity that is approved by the Underwriters 

Laboratories or other acceptable testing agency and during fire season, vehicle operators must have a 

shovel and fire extinguisher or one gallon of water (ORPD 2009). Sparks can also be generated from 

activities on designated routes such as loose tow chains, improperly maintained brakes and wheel 

bearings, exploding solenoids on winches, and driving on flat tires, to name a few. 

64 Class II OHVs (Jeeps or SUVs) are required to have an operating muffler and exhaust system under 99db which prevents 

sparks. Class I (quads, 3-wheelers) and class II (motorcycles) OHVs are required to have a spark arrester. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

330 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Unauthorized Routes 

Unauthorized routes typically result from low-standard temporary roads either built within the scope of 

timber sale contracts or from other unplanned, off-road vehicle uses such as gathering firewood and 

accessing dispersed recreation sites. After their intended use, such routes are typically decommissioned 

but are often visible as primitive wheel tracks or show up as features in aerial photos. These routes have 

not been mapped or recorded in the forest transportation database (see Transportation section). Depending 

on the vegetation conditions, these unauthorized routes could function as preliminary fuel/fire breaks 

from which to more safely access an ignition, build a fire line, or perform a burn-out operation, if an 

ignition were to occur. 

Two affected sub-environments were identified for analyzing effects. The first is the area more than 300 

feet from the centerline of an open designated route proposed to be closed to cross-country travel or 

proposed to be closed to motorized access for dispersed camping. This affected environment will herein 

be known as, “the broader landscape”. 

The second affected environment is the area within 300 feet of all open designated routes. This area was 

identified for the purposes of analysis because all alternatives allow for varying degrees of motorized 

access to dispersed camping within 300 feet of designated routes. 

Human starts from both motorized and non-motorized users across the broader landscape account for 37 

percent and 36 percent of the total human starts across the administrative units (Table 142 and Table 143; 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, respectively). As with the statistics in Table 142, campfires are 

the most prevalent known cause of unplanned human ignitions, accounting for 55 percent and 72 percent, 

respectively, on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, of the human-caused starts across the 

broader landscape (not including miscellaneous human-caused and not documented). Unplanned humancaused ignitions on both Forests across the broader landscape have decreased slightly over the last 21 

years, although there is high annual variability (Figure 39). This may indicate that unplanned humancaused ignitions across the broader landscape that require suppression action are related to factors other 

than increases in population over time, such as ambient conditions or annual use trends.

Table 143. Unplanned human-caused ignitions across the broader landscape (see above) across the 

administrative units (Deschutes National Forest, 1987 – 2007; Ochoco National Forest, 1986– 2007) 

Ignition Cause Deschutes National Forest Ochoco National Forest

Not documented 2 --

Equipment 25 10

Smoking 122 29

Campfire 310 125

Debris burning 26 5

Arson 61 5

Children 15 --

Misc. human 161 23

Total 722 197
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 331

Figure 39. Unplanned human-caused ignitions across the broader landscape on the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests

Human starts from both motorized and non-motorized users within 300 feet of open designated routes 

account for 39 percent and 35 percent, respectively, on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, of the 

total human starts across the administrative units (Table 144). As with the broader landscape, campfires 

are the most prevalent known cause documented, accounting for 56 percent and 81 percent, respectively, 

on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, of the total human-caused starts within 300 feet of open 

designated routes (not including miscellaneous human-caused and not documented (Table 144)). Figure 

40 shows the trends in human-caused starts within 300 feet of open designated routes. Starts in this area 

have generally increased over the last 21 years across both Forests, but as with those across the broader 

landscape, annual variability is high.

Table 144. Unplanned human-caused ignitions in the area within 300 feet of open designated routes across the 

administrative units (Deschutes National Forest, 1987 – 2007; Ochoco National Forest, 1986– 2007

Ignition Cause Deschutes National Forest Ochoco National Forest

Not documented 2 - -

Equipment 22 2

Smoking 103 17

Campfire 310 114

Debris burning 33 4

Arson 73 9

Children 9 3

Misc. human 206 44

Total 758 193
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

332 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 40. Human-caused ignitions within 300 feet of open designated routes on the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Alternative 1

As urban populations and forest use increases into the future, unplanned human-caused ignitions 

associated with motorized users would likely also increase (especially within 300 feet of open designated 

routes; see Figure 40 above), challenging suppression, prevention, and law enforcement resources. As 

highlighted by Table 142. Historical fire occurrence on the Deschutes (1987 – 2007) and Ochoco National 

Forests (1986 – 2007), we can expect this effect to be more dramatic on the Deschutes National Forest 

compared to the Ochoco National Forest due to proximity to larger population centers. Under Alternative 

1, there would be continued creation of unauthorized routes and use of these unauthorized routes by 

suppression resources that could function as preliminary fuel/fire breaks from which to more safely and/or 

efficiently access an ignition, build a fire line, or perform a burn-out operation (depending on vegetation 

conditions), if an ignition were to occur. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 

Although Alternatives 2 and 3 would restrict motorized access for dispersed camping to the area within 

300 feet of open designated routes to varying degrees (see chapter 2 for more detail), the effects to fire 

risk can be grouped together since the primary result of implementing either alternative is the restriction 

of motorized users to designated routes, within 300 feet of open designated routes, and/or in areas that 

would be open to cross-country travel (e.g., rock and gravel pits).
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 333

Fires, especially those caused by humans, are inherently unpredictable events. Therefore, analysis of them 

can only be described in relative terms based on the assumption that reducing the acreage available for 

motorized vehicle access, one causal factor associated with unplanned, human-caused ignitions, should 

shift future human-caused ignitions associated with motorized vehicle access from the broader landscape 

and concentrate them in the areas where motorized use would be allowed. That would be within 300 feet 

of open designated routes or areas proposed to be open to cross-country travel (i.e., rock/gravel pits). 

Ignitions associated with motorized access or caused by motorized vehicles (e.g., ejected sparks, or direct 

contact with vegetation) would be limited to these areas. While Alternatives 2 and 3 represent a reduction 

in the acreage available for motorized access, it is not possible to quantitatively infer the effects of this 

reduction in acreage in terms of fire risk, as statistics do not specifically capture starts associated with 

motorized access (i.e., starts that are not directly caused by motorized vehicles but are associated with 

access by motorized vehicles; see appendix B-10). Additionally, Alternatives 2 and 3 would not affect 

non-motorized travel, so unplanned human-caused ignitions associated with this user group would not be 

affected. It is most likely that the total number of unplanned human-caused ignitions associated with 

motorized access across the administrative units per year would likely remain the same or increase with 

projected increases in forest use, but would tend to shift from the broader landscape and be more 

concentrated in the previously mentioned areas where motorized use would be allowed within 300 feet of 

open designated routes or areas proposed to be open to motorized access off designated route (i.e. rock 

pits). Because of this level of background increase which is not a result of this decision, any specific 

increase directly or indirectly from these proposed actions could not be meaningfully distinguished. 

Human-caused ignitions associated with motorized access confined to the area with 300 feet of open 

designated routes or within rock/gravel pits would be more readily accessible to suppression resources. 

Additionally, since rock/gravel pits generally contain minimal vegetation (i.e., flammable material), the 

likelihood of a fire starting within one of these areas and escaping to an outlying area is less when 

compared to other more densely vegetated areas. Furthermore, the ignitions that do occur within these 

areas will likely remain small, assuming that suppression resources are able to extinguish the ignitions 

within the footprint of these areas, away from more densely vegetated areas. 

Because system roads currently open to public use that do not have an existing decision to close them, 

would remain open under these alternatives, access to ignitions by suppression resources would not be 

affected by either Alternative 2 or 3. Further, use of any fire, military, emergency, or law enforcement 

vehicle for emergency purposes is exempt from this decision (See Chapter 2 – Exemptions or Exceptions 

Identified by the Travel Management Rule). However, Alternatives 2 and 3 could also lead to the eventual 

elimination of unauthorized routes that could function as preliminary fuel/fire breaks from which to more 

safely/efficiently access an ignition, build a fire line, or perform a burn-out operation, if an ignition were 

to occur. These unauthorized routes should likely exist for 10 years or more absent any rehabilitation 

efforts (See Analysis Assumptions at the beginning of chapter 3) and would be used during suppression 

efforts, if necessary. 

Air Quality and the Clean Air Act

Executive Summary

There would be no measurable direct or indirect effect to air quality since the total emissions resulting 

from vehicles, vehicle travel, forest management activities, and wildfires are unlikely to change under the 

proposed action or alternatives. However, Alternatives 2 and 3 affect where motor vehicles can be legally 

operated on National Forest System lands, and thus could potentially affect the location of vehicle 

emissions and fugitive dust resulting from vehicle travel. Concentrations of fugitive dust and emissions 

resulting from vehicle travel will tend to be localized within areas where motorized use would be allowed. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

334 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

That area would be within 300 feet of open designated routes or areas proposed to be open to crosscountry travel (i.e., rock/gravel pits). Since fugitive dust emissions are highly variable and dependent on 

many factors, quantifying this spatial relocation in emissions as a result of this decision is not possible. 

Air quality adjacent to residential areas is likely to improve under either action alternative as a result of 

restricting motorized access to designated routes and areas, since these actions effectively reduce 

emissions and dust currently generated by cross-country travel. However, as with Alternative 1, with 

predicted increases in forest use over time, total motorized activity and consequently total vehicle 

emissions and dust generated by vehicles would also increase. Because of this level of background 

increase which is not a result of this decision, any specific increase directly or indirectly from these 

proposed actions could not be meaningfully distinguished. 

Affected Environment

The Federal Clean Air Act, as amended in 1963, 1967, 1970, 1977 and 1990 (42 U.S.C. §7401 et seq.), is 

a legal mandate designed to protect human health and welfare. The Clean Air Act gives the 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the authority to set National Ambient Air Quality Standards 

(NAAQS) or levels of “criteria” pollutants above which may result in detrimental effects on human health 

and welfare. These criteria pollutants include carbon monoxide, lead, nitrogen oxides, ozone, sulfur 

dioxide, and particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5; number refers to the particle’s “aerodynamic” diameter 

or diameter of a sphere of unit density 1.0 g/cm3

; Watson et al. 1996, OAR-340-200). Particulate matter 

can refer to a variety of materials, including light weight soil particles or dust resulting from vehicle travel 

on unpaved surfaces, also known as fugitive dust. 

State implementation plans (or Tribal implementation plans for Tribal lands) are adopted by each State or 

Tribe to implement the provisions of the Clean Air Act. State or Tribal implementation plans describe the 

State’s or Tribe’s actions to achieve and maintain National Ambient Air Quality Standards. If an area 

consistently does not attain the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, it is designated as a nonattainment area and the State or Tribe must demonstrate to the public and the Environmental Protection 

Agency how it will meet standards in the future. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality 

regulates and monitors air quality for the State. 

To date, the urban and industrial centers adjacent to the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests are not 

identified as non-attainment areas (OAR 340-204-0030 and OAR 340-204-0040). Even though National 

Ambient Air Quality Standards in a larger area are being met, localized area quality degradation can 

occur. Sources of local criteria air pollution on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, include (but 

are not limited to) construction equipment, vehicles (off-highway and highway-legal), wildfires, and 

forest management activities (i.e., prescribed fires, pile burning). 

Fugitive dust resulting from motor vehicles driving on unpaved surfaces is recognized by the 

Environmental Protection Agency and in the literature as a contributor to localized air quality degradation 

(Ouren et al. 2007, Goossens and Buck 2009, EPA 2000). However, the current EPA method of evaluating 

exposure to particulate matter (a component of fugitive dust) at the national level does not account for 

short (less than 24 hour), acute exposures (Padget 2006, EPA 2010). Fugitive dust is composed of a 

variety of particle sizes; those particles less than 15-10 microns in diameter are considered a health 

concern, as they are inhalable (EPA 1995, EPA 2008). Smaller particles (less than 2.5 microns in 

diameter) pose amplified health concerns as they can travel deep into the lungs where the body’s defense 

mechanisms are unable to remove them (Morgan 1989 in NWCG 2001). Particulate matter larger than 

these size levels, while not inhalable and consequently regulated at the national level can cause local 

nuisance problems (EPA 1995). The extent to which fugitive dust is generated, suspended, re-deposited, 

transported, and consequently quantified has been actively discussed in the literature and is thought to 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 335

vary by many factors including, vehicle class (number of wheels), vehicle weight, speed of travel, wind 

speed, atmospheric stability, soil water content, soil type (particle size), and possibly wheel diameter, 

wheel width, and tire tread (Goossens and Buck 2009; Gilles et al. 2005, Watson et al. 1996). Literature 

has shown that under moderate wind speeds (10 mph) particles greater than 100 microns are likely to 

settle out within 20-30 feet from the point of emission. Smaller particles are not as susceptible to 

gravitational settling (EPA 1995). However, the concentration of particles declines rapidly due to vertical 

mixing and deposition as emissions move from the point of emission downwind (Etyemezian et al. 2003). 

Further, the amount of PM 10 or less within each fugitive dust emission is also highly variable and 

depends on soil characteristics (Watson et al 1996, Gill et al. 2007). Research on mining trucks on haul 

roads showed that approximately 14.5 percent of the dust generated by travel on non-paved surfaces was 

less than 10 microns (Reed and Organiscak 2007). Another study in Texas showed that nearly 30 percent 

of the dust generated was 10 microns or less (Gill et al 2007). 

Section 160 of the Federal Clean Air Act also requires measures “to preserve, protect, and enhance the air 

quality in national parks, national wilderness areas, national monuments, national seashores, and other 

areas of special national or regional natural, recreational, scenic, or historic value.” Class I areas include 

Forest Service and Fish and Wildlife Service wilderness areas over 5,000 acres that were in existence 

before August 1977, and national parks in excess of 6,000 acres as of August 1977. Designation as a class 

I area allows only very small increments of new pollution above existing air pollution levels. Class I areas 

have the highest air quality protection standards while class II have a moderate level of protection. 

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests include the following class I areas as identified by the State 

of Oregon (OAR 340-204-0050): 

• Three Sisters Wilderness 

• Mount Washington Wilderness

• Mount Jefferson Wilderness

• Diamond Peak Wilderness

Other wilderness areas established after 1977 and national monuments on the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests (Black Canyon Wilderness, Bridge Creek Wilderness, Mill Creek Wilderness, Mount 

Thielsen Wilderness, and Newberry National Volcanic Monument) are designated as class II areas. 

On Forest Service Lands in Oregon, the authority to manage smoke emissions from management 

activities is given to the Oregon Department of Forestry under the Oregon Smoke Management Plan 

(Oregon Revised Statute 477.013)65. The Oregon Department of Forestry has the authority to coordinate 

burning on agricultural and Forest Service lands to minimize impairments and to designate smoke 

sensitive receptor areas to protect dense population areas or other areas with special legal status from 

visibility impairments. The acknowledged urban growth boundaries of Bend and Redmond are considered 

smoke sensitive receptor areas. In these areas, smoke intrusions or the verified entrance of smoke from 

prescribed burning at ground level is avoided and must be reported (OAR-629-048). 

As with particulate matter, vehicle emissions, particularly those resulting from two-stroke engines 

(nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, ozone, aldehydes, and extremely persistent polycyclic 

aromatic hydrocarbons) can contribute to localized air quality degradation, even though National Ambient 

Air Quality Standards in a larger area are being met (Ouren et al. 2007). These sources of air toxics (e.g., 

 

65 Forest Service fire managers minimize smoke impacts from management activities by following the Smoke Management 

Guide for Prescribed and Wildland Fire (NWGC 2001). 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

336 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

gasoline) or hazardous air pollutants emitted from motorized vehicles that are not “criteria” pollutants but 

are “known to cause or may reasonably be anticipated to cause adverse effects to human health or adverse 

environmental effects” are also identified in the Clean Air Act and regulated by the Environmental 

Protection Agency (EPA 1994). 

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Alternative 1

Alternative 1, the no-action alternative, would not modify the total motorized activity across the Forests 

or potentially change the location of unplanned human-caused wildfire starts associated with motorized 

use. However, with predicted increases in forest use over time, total motorized activity and consequently 

vehicle emissions, dust generated from vehicle travel on unpaved surfaces, and unplanned human-caused 

ignitions will also increase. See the transportation, recreation, fire risk, and soils sections of chapter 3 for 

more detail related to road conditions, motorized use, fire risk, and dust. 

Alternatives 2 and 3

Alternatives 2 and 3 affect where motor vehicles can be legally operated on National Forest System lands, 

potentially affecting the location of vehicle emissions and fugitive dust resulting from vehicle travel. 

Concentrations of fugitive dust and emissions resulting from vehicle travel will tend to be localized 

within areas where motorized use would be allowed. That area would be within 300 feet of open 

designated routes or areas proposed to be open to motorized cross-country travel (i.e., rock/gravel pits). 

People who are physically sensitive to vehicle emissions and/or dust may be impacted when recreating 

within these areas. Since fugitive dust emissions are highly variable and dependent on the previously 

mentioned factors, quantifying this spatial relocation in emissions as a result of this decision is not 

possible. 

Air quality adjacent to residential areas is likely to improve under either action alternative as a result of 

the restriction of motorized access to designated routes and areas, since these actions effectively reduce 

emissions and dust currently generated by cross country travel and from 41 and 6 mineral material source 

sites (rock/cinder pits) within the wildland urban interface (defined as an approximately 1.5 mile area 

surrounding communities that have common boundaries with National Forest System lands) on the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest, respectively (Table 145). Additionally, approximately 9 miles of 

roads in proximity to residential areas (i.e., within the wildland-urban Interface) would change from 

mixed motorized use to highway-legal vehicles only under Alternatives 2 and 3, effectively reducing 

OHV use in proximity to residential areas. Further, because none of the alternatives are likely to change 

the net amount of motorized use across the Forests, Alternatives 2 and 3 are predicted to have no effect on 

total air quality across the Forests and Grassland. However, as with Alternative 1, with predicted increases 

in forest use over time, total motorized activity and consequently total vehicle emissions and dust 

generated by vehicles would also increase. Because of this level of background increase which is not a 

result of this decision, any specific increase directly or indirectly from these proposed actions could not 

be meaningfully distinguished. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 337

Table 145. Mineral material source sites (rock/cinder pits) open to motorized access off of designated routes 

within the wildland urban interface

Alternative 1 Alternatives 2 and 3

Deschutes National Forest

Mineral material source sites open to 

motorized access off of designated routes 

within the Wildland Urban Interface 

52 11

Ochoco National Forest

Mineral material source sites open to 

motorized access off of designated routes 

within the Wildland Urban Interface 

7 1 

Since Alternatives 2 and 3 could also indirectly affect the location of unplanned human-caused wildfire 

starts associated with motorized access (see fire risk section), this could result in a beneficial effect to air 

quality. Since under Alternatives 2 and 3 cross-country travel and motorized access for dispersed camping

would be limited (to varying degrees) to the area within 300 feet of open designated routes, starts 

associated with motorized use would be more accessible to suppression resources and potentially more 

rapidly extinguished, thereby reducing emissions (See fire risk section for more detail). However, this 

effect on air quality from human-caused wildfire that could be attributed to starts from cross-country 

travel or motorized access for dispersed camping is highly speculative and is therefore not uniquely 

measurable or definable. The potential for any of the alternatives to affect air quality indirectly related to 

wildfires is predicted to be no change and is therefore not discussed in further detail in this analysis. 

Heritage Resources 

Executive Summary

On the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland heritage resource 

sites range from scatters of historic debris or prehistoric artifacts to prehistoric and historic structures, and 

travelways; including roads. Of these, 10 percent of the total sites are highly vulnerable to off-highway 

vehicle disturbance. These vulnerable sites include prehistoric and historic structures, historic and 

prehistoric archaeological sites with features and/or tools present, burials, graves and cemeteries, rock art, 

culturally modified trees, and culturally significant areas such a traditional cultural properties (including 

food gathering areas, ceremonial locations, and other traditional cultural properties). 

The public often recreates in or near recorded heritage sites on the two Forests. In most cases, such 

recreation activities and uses are considered benign with no negative impact except for deliberate looting 

of protected archaeological and historic resources. However, operating motorized vehicles cross-country, 

as well as to access dispersed camp sites, has the potential to damage, destroy or displace heritage 

resources. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a beneficial effect by reducing impacts to heritage resources by reducing 

the amount of land open to motorized vehicle traffic. The removal of cross-country travel would generally 

have a beneficial effect on heritage resources by eliminating the physical disturbances that currently 

threaten heritage site integrity, whether in highly trafficked areas or in areas at risk of newly created 

routes. Heritage resource sites that are currently impacted as a result of cross-country travel would be 

expected to slowly recover over time due to a reduction in erosion and eventual recovery of soils, along 

with re-growth of groundcover and understory vegetation. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

338 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Affected Environment

On both the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Grassland there are over 7,000 known heritage 

resource sites. The majority of these sites reflect prehistoric use patterns prior to the 19th Century (the 

most common site type being a scatter of stone tool detritus), with the remaining associated with more 

recent historic uses related to exploration, early settlement, mining, ranching, timbering, and recreation. 

Heritage resource sites can be found in almost any location on public lands. However, distribution 

patterns of prehistoric, as well as some types of historic sites, can be modeled based upon certain 

variables (Claeyssens 1991, Houser 1996, Lebow et al. 1991). In general, archaeological sites are found in 

or near riparian areas and terraces, especially at their confluences, as well as in areas providing shelter, 

access to food, and other economic resources.

Prehistory

Human occupation of Central Oregon in general, and the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and 

Grassland in particular, spans at least the last 10,000 years. 

The prehistory of Western North America can be divided into three broad time periods that are linked to 

some degree with overall climatic and geological periods. The Paleo-Indian Period roughly corresponds 

to the end of the Pleistocene and emergence of the Holocene Epoch. Traditionally, Paleo-Indian culture 

(e.g. Clovis Culture) is thought to represent highly mobile hunting bands reliant on the Pleistocene mega 

fauna that dominated open steppe and grassland communities on the margins of glaciated terrain and high 

plateaus of the Pacific Northwest. However, this model is coming under increasing scrutiny as other sites 

and traditions contemporary or pre-dating Clovis becomes known (cf. Dillehay 1999).

The Archaic Period comprises the bulk of the Holocene up until the beginning of the Historic Period, 

taken here as 1804 when Lewis and Clark entered the Oregon Territory on their "Voyage of Discovery". 

The Archaic is further divided into Early, Middle and Late sub periods. In general, the Archaic represents 

both a broadening of the subsistence base of hunter gatherers, and in some areas, intensification in the 

food procurement, processing, and storage technologies that allow for increasing sedentism.

The Historic Period begins in the early 19th Century in Central Oregon. This marked the transition from 

traditional native lifeways and economies to those adversely impacted by the emerging frontier societies. 

Four Indian tribes inhabited and/or seasonally used areas within the project area during the Historic

Period: the Northern Paiute, the Tenino/Tygh (Warm Springs), Klamath/Modoc, and the Mollala. With 

exception of the Northern Paiute, these three tribes are all tied by language (Sahaptin/Penutian Phylum) 

and culture to the Plateau peoples of the greater Columbia River Basin and Cascade Range. All of these 

tribes represent small bands of hunting and gathering peoples who were adapted to the high desert 

(steppe) and woodland/forest environments of central Oregon by a nomadic or semi-nomadic foraging 

and collecting economy. The Northern Paiute are associated with the Great Basin culture area and have 

linguistic (Uto-Aztecan) and cultural ties to other cultures of this physiographic province. 

It is highly unlikely that any one of these historic groups or their archaic antecedents occupied permanent 

villages within the analysis area. Rather the river courses and adjacent lowlands and basins, as well as 

more distant uplands were exploited seasonally for their food and economic resources. Winter villages or 

semi-permanent home bases were located outside the analysis area, most likely downstream along the 

main stem of the Deschutes and its major tributaries, such as the Crooked River, as well as to the east in 

the playas/basins of Fort Rock, Christmas Valley, and Summer Lake. Both forest and steppe ecosystems 

were exploited seasonally, as were major rivers, streams, and lakeside habitats. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 339

The faunal, floral, and geologic resources that sustained their subsistence economies included deer, elk, 

antelope, mountain sheep and a variety of smaller game. Aquatic resources, such as anadromous and 

resident fish, as well as fresh water eels and shellfish, also contributed in some areas. Of equal or greater 

importance were floral food resources, most notable of which were various roots and tubers of the wild 

parsley family, as well as others such as bitterroot. Seeds of Indian rice grass, chenopodiums, pond lilies 

(wocus) were also commonly exploited. Other types of floral food resources included a variety of fruits 

and berries (huckleberry, chokecherry, wild plum, etc.), lichens, and fungi. Tool kits, implements, 

adornments and clothing were also supplied by faunal and floral resources. In addition, geologic resources 

provided tool stone for stone (lithic) tools, such as obsidians, basalts and micro-crystalline silicates, as 

well as pigments, such as iron oxide (red ochre). 

Some of these economic pursuits produce relatively scant archaeological signatures (e.g. broad-scale 

foraging and hunting), with the most typical site type being a scatter of broken stone tools and flaking 

debris associated with stone tool kit manufacture and maintenance (lithic scatter). Other economic 

pursuits that relied upon more intensive harvest of resources from a relatively small area (such as 

freshwater shellfish procurement or seed processing) may produce sites of more volume and complexity. 

In addition to lithic materials, these site types may also contain ground stone implements, features 

associated with domestic structures, and middens (such as shell middens).

By the mid 19th Century, tribal peoples of the Oregon Territory were ultimately placed on reservations 

following the signing of Treaties with the US Government, effectively making them wards of the state 

and thus ending their traditional way of life in Central Oregon. 

History

The historic period for Central Oregon began as Euro-American explorers transected the area during the 

first half of the 19th Century. These expeditions were associated initially with exploration and fur 

trapping, followed by military/scientific surveys, and ultimately military campaigns against recalcitrant 

Indian populations. While these expeditions left little physical evidence, they did spur later settlement by 

providing accounts of the land and resources. One of these significant expeditions is known from John C. 

Fremont's popular travelogue of his 1843 survey of the Deschutes River with Kit Carson and Indian guide 

Billy Chinook. The publication of the surveys of the US Army Survey Expeditions for a transcontinental 

railroad route in 1855 further placed Central Oregon on the map.

During the 1840s and 1850s, thousands of emigrants passed through Oregon territory on the way to their 

future homesteads in the Willamette Valley. Few looked to dry Central Oregon for land until the open land 

in the Willamette Valley became scarce. The initial settlement of Central Oregon was also limited by 

hostilities between Native Americans and settlers. Mining developed more fully during the 1860s in 

Eastern Oregon, which resulted in improved transportation routes, and the establishment of small 

communities, which in turn created local needs for natural resources and foodstuffs. Settlement of Central 

and Eastern Oregon took root during this era, with small populations centered around water, protection 

from weather and winds, and adjacent to transportation routes. 

The various Homestead Acts, including the Desert Land Act, Enlarged Homestead Act, and the StockRaising Homestead Act, were the primary means by which these lands of the public domain were 

privately acquired between 1860 and 1930. Initially, raising livestock was the primary pursuit, with the 

uplands of the Cascades, the Paulina Mountains, and the Ochoco Mountains providing abundant summer 

forage. Soon productive bottomlands of the Deschutes and Crooked River basins were producing 

substantial yields of vegetable and fruit crops. Water was obtained by springs, hauling, wells, and 

eventually irrigation systems and reservoirs. By the late 19th and early 20th Centuries, irrigation 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

340 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

developments, land speculation and transportation development led to an increase in the settlement of the 

area. 

The Deschutes Basin and the Ochoco Mountains witnessed initial homestead entries in the late 19th to 

early 20th Century. Ranching of both sheep and cattle dominated the area, with both resident and nonresident herds driven through the area to summer pasturage. The first ranch in the area was established at 

Hay Creek in the 1880s. A few years later the city of Prineville was platted and became the county seat 

for the vast Crook County (which initially included what is now Deschutes and Jefferson Counties). 

Railways penetrated the region, commencing with a branch line to Shaniko in 1900 to service the 

expanding sheep market. The increasing conflicts between stock raisers and their grazing rights, 

especially between sheep and cattlemen, led to the creation of the Blue Mountain Reserves in the late 

1890s, known later as the Ochoco National Forest. The Cascade Forest Reserve was also established at 

this time to conserve timber, grazing, and scenic resources. It became the Deschutes National Forest.

Within the next decade, two railroad barons competed for access to the community of Bend and its 

promise of billions of board feet of Ponderosa Pine. By 1911, Bend was reached by the winner, James J. 

Hill, owner of the Oregon Trunk Line (OTL) and the Great Northern, platting the towns of Madras and 

Redmond along the way. In 1918 the earlier settled community of Prineville formed its own railway to 

connect to the OTL, thereby providing access to large tracks of pine and markets.

The industrial scale mills located in Bend, Brooks-Scanlon and Shevlin-Hixon, purchased many of the 

lands surrounding the Bend area. In general the former dominated lower elevation forested lands east of 

the river basin, while the latter concentrated west of the Deschutes River. Later, industrial scale logging 

also developed in the Ochocos on both federal and privately held timber tracts. 

During the Great Depression capacity was added with local mills in the Prineville area, such as Ochoco 

Lumber Co. Large volumes of timber were harvested from private lands initially and shifting to Forest 

Service lands after World War II. Many of the cutover private lands were later acquired by the Forest 

Service and now comprise parts of the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests.

The development of National Forest recreation facilities in the 1920s and 30s commenced the emergence 

of another key Central Oregon commodity: recreation experiences and amenities associated with the great 

outdoors. Within a short while, fishing, hunting, rock hounding, camping, hiking, skiing, and recreational 

vehicle use all became commonplace for the region. 

Development in Central Oregon continued during the late mid 20th Century as parts of the Deschutes and 

Crooked River Basins were considered for reservoir development to increase local storage capacity for 

downstream irrigation. This irrigation water was directed to the more favorable agricultural lands in 

Jefferson and Crook counties, particularly near the towns of Culver, Madras, and Prineville. 

Indian Tribes, Treaty and Trust Resources

The traditional, treaty and ceded lands of three federally recognized tribes overlap the two National 

Forests and Grassland; the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs of Oregon (Warm Springs Tribe), the 

Klamath Tribes and the Burns Paiute Tribe. However, of the three, the Warm Springs Tribe is the only 

tribe with ceded land treaty rights as per the 1855 Treaty with the Tribes of Middle Oregon. The Klamath 

Tribes' former reservation is now part of the Fremont-Winema National Forest, and their aboriginal 

territory includes parts of the Deschutes National Forest as well. The Burns Paiute Tribe, while federally 

recognized, has neither a formal reservation nor ceded lands on the National Forests, however their 

traditional territory includes portions of both Forests and the Grassland. It is well known and documented 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 341

that members of the Warm Springs Tribe continue to exercise their ceded land treaty rights on the 

Grassland and both National Forests, mostly in the harvest and collection of traditional foods, such as 

roots, lichens and berries. The Ochoco National Forest and Grassland have mapped areas where 

traditional use is known to occur and they have coordinated with the Warm Springs Tribe on their First 

Foods initiative to preserve and maintain traditional cultural uses and their habitats. 

While they are less well known and documented, anecdotal evidence exists of traditional and ceremonial 

uses of public lands by members of the Klamath Tribes and Burns Paiute Tribe. However, the locations

and details of these practices are unknown at this time. In general, under ceded land treaty rights, the 

American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA) and the Sacred Sites Act, the Forest Service cooperates 

with Tribes and individual practitioners to assure access to and use of public lands for said purposes. 

Many of the concerns addressed by Tribes or practitioners of ceremonial and traditional uses are related to 

having roaded access to sites (which helps to facilitate access by elderly practitioners), desire for solitude, 

respect and lack of interruptions or interference by the public (including off-highway travel), and 

continued access to and use of an area.

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Heritage resource sites can be affected in many ways by highway-legal and non- highway-legal vehicles. 

Direct effects on these resources occur where OHV use, user-created routes, and informal maintenance of 

these routes overlap with heritage site boundaries on National Forest system lands. These effects include 

trampling, rutting, relocation of artifacts, and other forms of disturbance from vehicle tires. Indirect 

effects on heritage resources can also occur from vehicular travel. These include environmental effects 

such as road washouts within archaeological sites that often result from user created routes, as well as an 

increase in human related effects, such as looting and vandalism. In particular, looting and vandalism can 

result from increased access to areas with sensitive cultural resource sites near or adjacent to road systems 

and dispersed campsites. With archaeological sites, these effects are also magnified by the increased 

ground visibility that results from vegetation loss from vehicular trampling. 

Often these direct and indirect effects on heritage resources are not immediate, but have cumulative 

effects of degradation over time. In such cases, continued use of the recreation site may lead to the 

ultimate demise of heritage sites as artifacts and/or features are gradually trampled, disturbed, removed, 

or displaced. In order to conduct our analysis of the environmental effects on cultural resource sites on 

both the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, we have selected certain types of sites that we 

determined were most susceptible to direct, indirect, and cumulative effects of these identified general 

impacts from motorized access to dispersed camping sites and cross-country travel. 

Alternative 1

Under the no-action alternative, sensitive heritage resources are likely to continue to be inadvertently 

affected in areas currently impacted by motorized vehicle use due to unregulated motorized access off 

designated routes (cross-country travel), and by continued use of unauthorized motorized routes that 

overlap heritage sites. In addition, such open access also increases the likelihood of deliberate 

displacement and destruction of heritage resources by those trafficking in archaeological resources as 

defined by Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA). 

Cross-country Travel

Approximately 625,430 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and 431,784 acres on the Ochoco 

National Forest are currently open to year round or seasonal cross-country travel. Although the access and 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

342 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

use of areas open to motorized travel varies widely due to slope, rock and vegetation constraints, heritage 

resources on the majority of these acres would remain susceptible to additional impacts. 

In general, additional impacts to heritage resources are likely to increase as overall recreational use 

increases across the two Forests. Furthermore, heritage resources in and adjacent to heavy-use dispersed 

camping areas, as well as unauthorized roads and trails, are likely to be the most heavily impacted by this 

increase in recreational use. Heritage resources are often located in or near the same areas as dispersed 

campsites, especially near or adjacent to water bodies.

Unauthorized roads and trails have increased in number over the past decade as motorized vehicle users 

explore and expand their range across public lands. Not only would heritage sites continue to be affected 

by existing roads and campgrounds, but unrestricted motorized access off designated routes under this 

alternative would continue to allow the creation and use of more roads and campsites off designated 

routes across the two forest area. This in turn would affect an ever increasing number of heritage sites.

Under this alternative, heritage resources would continue to be impacted by vehicle tires on existing 

unauthorized roads and trails. These impacts include bisecting of heritage sites, displacement of artifacts, 

and destruction of archaeological features. In addition to affecting site integrity, soil compaction and 

alteration of vegetation can lead to erosion, pooling of surface water, freeze-thaw cycles, and other 

processes with cumulative effects on the integrity of heritage sites. Although the rate at which new trail 

miles would be created is not known, this trend is expected to continue at a steady rate.

Since many heritage resources are located where the current road system provides access, this alternative 

would likely contribute to negative impacts directly related to motorized access off designated routes and 

the indirect effects of recreation use, including dispersed camping. With Alternative 1, there are 2,918 

known sites on the Deschutes National Forest that would remain vulnerable to impacts from crosscountry travel, while on the Ochoco and Grassland there are 2,326 known sites that would remain 

vulnerable to impacts from cross-country travel. 

Motorized access for dispersed camping 

There would be no change to the access of motorized vehicles for the purpose of dispersed camping under 

Alternative 1. Existing access roads to dispersed sites across both Forests are located on both upland and 

riparian soils and can range from completely denuded, exposed natural surface roads to vegetated, "two 

track" roads. The access roads located in or near riparian areas are more likely to impact heritage 

resources sincey of those are also located near water bodies. Other impacted areas associated with 

motorized access for dispersed camping include the parking and turn around areas at the dispersed sites 

themselves, many of which do not have physical bounds for defining traffic flow. Heritage resources are 

negatively impacted from continued vehicle traffic, maintenance of dispersed camping sites, and 

numerous indirect effects already outlined here previously. 

The majority of existing dispersed sites have access roads used by motor vehicles that would be 

maintained in a detrimental condition by continued use, especially in high use areas. The unbounded 

conditions maintained under this alternative often result in heavily denuded impacts immediately adjacent 

to stream channels and water bodies where the majority of dispersed campsites are located. Detrimental 

soil conditions are likely to persist and even expand in dispersed camping areas adjacent to streams and 

other water bodies under the no-action alternative.

New areas where heritage resources are located could be impacted under this alternative as users continue 

to create new access for dispersed camping. Dispersed camping and other vehicle use for access are 

assumed to increase in the future under this analysis as state and local community populations continue to 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 343

grow. High use on holiday and hunting weekends often exceeds campground capacities and generally 

pushes additional campers to disperse camping. Under this alternative, it is assumed this trend would 

continue to increase both the use of existing sites and the creation of additional dispersed campsites across 

the two forest area. This in turn would impact heritage resources as existing campsites are expanded and 

new dispersed campsites are created. These potentially adverse impacts are likely to persist from 

continued use of newly created dispersed campsites. Although the rate and extent of this impact is not 

predictable, the general trend rate for this increase is expected to be relatively moderate.

With Alternative 1, there are 2,541 (87 percent) known sites on the Deschutes National Forest that would 

remain vulnerable to direct and indirect effects allowed under this alternative, while on the Ochoco and 

Grassland there are 521 (22 percent) known sites where heritage resources would remain vulnerable to 

motorized access for dispersed camping. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 

Cross-country Travel

Alternatives 2 and 3 would indirectly affect heritage resources by reducing the amount of land open to 

motorized vehicle traffic. Approximately 625,430 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and 431,784 

acres on the Ochoco National Forest currently open for year round or seasonal cross-country travel would 

have traffic restricted to designated routes only. Prohibiting cross-country travel in these areas would 

generally have a beneficial effect on heritage resources by eliminating the physical disturbances that 

currently threaten heritage site integrity, whether in highly trafficked areas or in areas at risk of newly 

created routes.

Prohibiting cross-country travel and motorized access for dispersed camping more than 300 feet from an 

open designated route is likely to decrease the number of heritage resources directly or indirectly 

impacted across the two-Forest area. With Alternatives 2 and 3, there are 1,561 (53 percent) known sites

on the Deschutes National Forest that would have potential direct and indirect effects to cross-country 

travel, while on the Ochoco and Grassland there are 382 (16 percent) known sites where heritage 

resources that would have potential direct and indirect effects to cross-country travel. This is a reduction 

of 980 sites from the Deschutes NF (36 percent) and 1,944 sites on the Ochoco NF (84 percent) from the 

no-action alternative. The following changes would result in beneficial effects to the protection and 

preservation of heritage resources in their environmental contexts and better meet Forest Plan standards 

and guidelines:

• The restriction of cross-country travel would limit the formation of additional unauthorized roads and 

trails and begin to allow existing unauthorized roads and trails that were not designated for long term 

use under site specific trail projects to recover from impacted conditions. 

• The restriction of motorized access for dispersed camping to existing designated or defined sites in 

high use dispersed camping areas, as well as in the newly designated "Special Provision riparian 

areas", would decrease the number of heritage resources impacted by motorized vehicles and 

dispersed camping in these areas. 

• The restriction of motorized access to dispersed sites located within 100 feet of a stream to at least 30 

feet away from stream channels would also decrease the total number of potentially impacted heritage 

resources.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

344 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

• These alternatives would maintain or slightly reduce the amount of area (and thus by extension, a 

high percentage of heritage resources) impacted within 300 feet of designated routes by restricting 

motorized vehicle access off of system roads to the sole purpose of ingress and egress to dispersed 

camping. 

Heritage Resource sites that are currently impacted as a result of cross-country travel would be expected 

to slowly recover over time at a rate dependent on the productivity, moisture level, and extent of impact 

on the site. Most areas that have impacts from cross-country travel are likely to see steady vegetative 

recovery after motorized vehicle traffic is removed. Impacted areas located on riparian soils are likely to 

have a quicker recovery of vegetation than those on upland soils due to higher moisture regimes and 

general soil productivity. Estimated soil recovery rates are included in the Natural Resources Recovery 

rates in the Analysis Assumptions section at the beginning of Chapter 3. 

Given time, local soils are capable of recovering from compaction via freeze-thaw, rooting, and ground 

burrowing mechanisms. Compacted areas from railroad era logging operations have been observed in the 

field to have recovered to soil strengths that are only slightly elevated from natural levels some sixty plus 

years after they were impacted. These areas have been observed to support varying amounts of native 

herbaceous and shrub vegetation under these conditions. Although active restoration of impacted sites is 

not proposed under this decision, there would be a slow recovery of detrimental compaction in the soil 

profile and a return of vegetation on most sites if motorized traffic were discontinued. This recovery of 

both soils and vegetation would help obscure sensitive heritage resource site locations and allow natural 

processes of heritage site formation to continue without major human interference.

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have a direct beneficial effect on heritage resource site locations by restricting 

motorized access for dispersed camping to within 300 feet of the centerline of all designated routes. This 

restriction would prevent new motorized access to heritage sites from being created further than 300 feet 

from designated routes. Although this rule would not affect where dispersed camping would be allowed, 

limiting motorized access for dispersed camping should reduce the impacts to sites more than 300 feet 

from an open road, and allow sites greater than 300 feet from an open road to recover from the impacts of 

motorized access, and dispersed camping. 

The General Provisions allowing motorized access within 300 feet of a designated open road solely for 

the purpose of dispersed camping and limited to the same class of vehicle and season of use as the open 

designated road may have direct and indirect effects on susceptible heritage resources located with that 

600 feet total area on either side of a designated route. However, it is assumed those affects would be 

negligible and restricted to areas already somewhat affected by previous dispersed camping activities, 

such as where sufficient ingress/egress exists and where openings are present to erect a dispersed camp.

Alternatives 2 and 3 would also provide beneficial affects to heritage resources within the Special 

Provision riparian areas by restricting vehicular traffic and parking for dispersed camping to at least 30 

feet from stream banks and water bodies. Although the soils located within the vehicle setback buffers are 

not expected to have full recovery of soil and vegetation conditions due to continued foot and tent 

camping use, there would be enough improvement of these conditions to allow some improvement of 

compacted conditions over time and the recovery of vegetative growth on portions of the area, thus 

providing protection to heritage resources from inadvertent or intentional damage and destruction. This 

change is estimated to reduce the extent of impact associated with the dispersed sites along one third of 

the stream edge. Erosion, soil compaction and displacement would be reduced as a result of the 30 foot 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 345

setback; by reducing raindrop impacts and filtering overland flows, this, in turn would reduce erosion and 

artifact displacement from heritage resource sites during storm events.

Alternative 2 

Motorized access for the purpose of dispersed camping outside of the areas subject to Special Provisions 

would still have the potential to create new areas of impact within 300 feet of system roads where 

vehicles traveled and parked to camp. Although the expansion of this type of impact is expected to be 

relatively low, heritage resource sites in areas with sparse vegetation near desirable destinations would be 

susceptible to vehicular traffic capable of crushing vegetation, compacting sediments, and displacing 

and/or destroying artifacts and features.

Despite the 30 foot setbacks, most dispersed sites would likely remain susceptible to some level of 

erosion and sediment production. Although the overall amount of the soil resources impacted within these 

sites is assumed to decrease by 35 percent as a result of the setbacks, the potential remains for overland 

flows and sediment transport in heavily compacted and denuded areas, which may impact some heritage 

sites. Additional localized impacts to heritage resource sites could be incurred as new parking areas are 

created to compensate for the setback restrictions. However, these areas would be further from the stream 

channels and therefore less likely to impact heritage resources, which are often located immediately 

adjacent to riparian areas. 

Alternative 3 

Under this alternative, restriction of motorized access for dispersed camping to existing, designated, or 

defined sites would minimize the potential for new resource impacts within sensitive areas, many of 

which are riparian corridors across both Forests. This would effectively limit the possibility of newly 

created access routes or sites within 300 feet of designated routes or within 30 feet of streams, lakes, and 

wetlands. Thus, impacts to heritage resources would not be expected to increase in the Special Provision

areas.

By reducing the creation of new vehicle access’, parking spots and dispersed sites, Alternative 3 would 

have a beneficial effect by further reducing potential impacts on heritage resources on 423,419 acres 

across the two Forests (Deschutes: 353,686 acres, Ochoco: 69,733 acres).

Scenery Resources 

Executive Summary

The scenic resources on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National 

Grassland were inventoried under the Forest Service’s Visual Management System66. Both the Deschutes 

and Ochoco National Forest Land and Resource Management Plans (LRMP) identify visual quality 

objectives for many management areas. This section summarizes the analysis of the effects from 

implementing the actions proposed in this EIS on scenic views and visual management areas within the 

defined distance zones defined under the affected environment section.

 

66 The visual management system is part of the USDA National Forest Landscape Management System Series (FSM 2380.6) 

which identifies landscape character, existing scenic integrity, and scenic classes and sets goals and scenic integrity objectives.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

346 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Cross-country travel or motorized access for dispersed camping can indirectly affect scenic quality by 

denuding vegetation, and causing visible “tracks” or “areas” that often alter the form, line, color, and 

texture of the landscape. This is generally most evident in foregrounds along popular use areas such as 

riparian areas or hill climb areas. Scenic views would not be directly altered by any of the alternatives 

considered. Alternatives 2 and 3 would have more potential indirect benefits to scenery than Alternative 1.

In Alternatives 2 and 3, limiting motorized access for dispersed camping to designated, defined or 

existing campsites (under Special Provisions), and discouraging the creation of new motorized routes to 

access campsites would have a beneficial effect by reducing visual impacts within view corridors. 

Requiring a 30 foot setback from water bodies and stream channels would facilitate vegetation recovery 

in these areas, which would improve the appearance of foreground areas visible from major forest roads 

and from dispersed campsites.

Affected Environment

Scenic views are most affected by actions that alter the form, line, color, and texture of the landscape. 

There are no Forest Plan standards and guidelines that relate to the uses of existing designated routes. 

Visual quality objectives are measured by the degree of change or alteration of the landscape. 

Scenic Analysis Area

Portions of the Forests are visible from several important viewpoints in and around the greater Bend, 

Redmond, Prineville, and Madras areas as well as from State Highways 20, 97, 126, 22, and 31, and 

Forest roads and trails. Scenic views management areas are generally along these and other major Forest 

arterials or collector roads (see Table 146 for a detailed list). Visual quality objectives in these areas are 

generally foreground retention or partial retention and middle ground partial retention. These areas, as 

seen from selected travel routes and use areas are to be managed so that, to the casual observer, results of 

activities are evident but are visually subordinate to the landscape. 

Table 146. Scenic corridors on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the Crooked River National 

Grassland

Deschutes National Forest

Bend/Fort Rock, Crescent, and 

Sisters Ranger District

Ochoco National Forest

Lookout Mountain and Paulina 

Ranger District 

Crooked River National 

Grassland

Road 4601 (Skyliner Road), Highway 

46 (Cascade Lakes National Scenic 

Byway), Upper Deschutes River Wild 

and Scenic River, Road 45, Road 40, 

Road 41, Road 42, Road 43, Road 44, 

Road 45, Highway 97, Highway 58, 

Road 61, Road 18 (China Hat Road), 

Road 9720 (Lava Cast Forest), Road 

21, Road 22, Highway 31, Metolius 

Wild and Scenic River, Metolius Basin, 

Highway 20 (Santiam Pass Highway), 

Highway 242 (Mckenzie National 

Scenic Byway), Road 11, Road 12, 

Road 14, Road 15, and Road 16.

Road 12, Road 16, Road 17, Road 

22, Highway 26, Road 2630, Road 

27, Road 33, Road 38, Road 42, 

Road 58, North Fork Crooked 

River National Wild and Scenic 

River.

Highway 97, Highway 26, Road 

64, Lake Billy Chinook, Deschutes

Wild and Scenic River, Lower 

Crooked Wild and Scenic River
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 347

Recreation and Scenic Resources

Central Oregon has a history of being uniquely situated to “preserve and provide interpretation of unique 

geological and cultural areas for education, scientific and public enjoyment purposes” (USDA Forest 

Service 1990). Recreation and scenic resources, including the tourism industry, are increasingly touted as 

a mainstay of the local economy within Central Oregon. Winter and summer recreation expenditures have 

added an element of stability to the otherwise volatile wood products based economy of the past (USDA 

Forest Service 1990). 

Motorized Use on National Forest Lands

Nearly all forest visitors use vehicles to get to their preferred activities and settings, whether it is a hiking 

or equestrian trailhead, a fishing spot, or a favorite campsite. For many people, their vehicle is just the 

mode of transportation used to access their recreational activity. For others, the vehicle use itself is the 

activity. Use of off-highway-vehicles (OHVs) on National Forest System lands is a popular activity and 

both on and off-road use has increased over the past decade. The recreation section of this chapter, 

starting on page 66, includes detailed information and statistics on motorized recreation. 

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Dispersed camping and day use picnicking are popular activities on the Forest, accounting for 

approximately 14 percent of overall participation on the Deschutes National Forest and 27 percent on the 

Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland. Some visitors prefer a more secluded 

experience than developed campgrounds and picnic areas offer. The many roads, meadows, creeks, ponds, 

and lakes found on the Forest offer extensive opportunities for dispersed car and trailer camping and 

picnicking. Many sites have existed for years, and have been used by the same families year after year. 

Some of these sites are being accessed off of roads that have been administratively closed, but have not 

been physically closed on the ground, and may not be posted as closed, so appear to be open. The 

recreation section of this chapter, starting on page 66, includes detailed information and statistics on 

motorized access for dispersed camping.

Landscape Character Description

The Central Oregon landscape, encompassing the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Grassland, 

is well known for its open-park like stands of large-yellow bark Ponderosa pine, spectacular snow-capped 

mountain peaks, open grassy meadows, crystal clear lakes and streams, fish and wildlife species, 

wondrous and unusual geological landforms, spectacular scenery, and world class outdoor recreation 

opportunity and experience (USDA, Forest Service 1989/1990). All these elements combined contribute 

to a reputation that the Oregon high desert landscape is a world class destination that brings in over 5 

million visitors each year. The area’s popularity is expected to continue to grow and expand in the future 

commensurate with increasing population.

Landscape Character Goal and Objective

The landscape character goal for the analysis area is to achieve a natural appearing landscape, such as 

open park-like stands, where management directions, the desired future conditions, and social and 

ecological framework are met (USDA Forest Service 1990).
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

348 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Scenic Quality Objective

Scenic quality within the analysis area would be natural appearing character where various line, form, 

color and texture elements are found within the landscape. Human alterations, in general, would be 

subordinate and conform to natural appearing landscape characteristics. Character trees, snags and small 

openings, to highlight special features within the landscape, are desirable and encouraged. Where 

biologically feasible, diversity in vegetation species, age and classes is encouraged (USDA Forest Service 

1990). 

Standards and Guidelines

The following are standards and guidelines from the 1990 Deschutes National Forest and 1989 Ochoco 

National Forest Land and Resource Management Plans (LRMP) as amended by the 1994 Northwest 

Forest Plan. The standards and guidelines for the Northwest Forest Plan shall take precedence except in 

cases where the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest Plans are more restrictive or provides greater 

benefits to late-successional forest-related species (USDA Forest Service 1994a). 

Scenic Views Allocations

The existing Forest Plan direction on recreation management and scenic quality is the basis for this 

analysis. Further direction regarding scenery management is in Forest Service Manual 2380 (Landscape 

Management) and Landscape Aesthetics: A handbook for Scenery Management, USDA, 1995.

The Forest Service implementing regulations also establish a variety of scenic quality standards for scenic 

views allocation area (management area 9). These include:

• Natural-appearing landscape with high scenic integrity level (retention)

• Slightly altered landscape with medium scenic integrity level (partial retention)

• Altered landscape with low scenic integrity level (modification)

Primary and secondary access and travel routes, along with trail and waterway corridors, are within the 

scenic allocation area under the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the Crooked River National 

Grassland management plan. 

Distance Zone

Distance zones are landscape areas denoted by specified distances from the observer. It is used as a frame 

of reference in which to discuss landscape attributes or the scenic effect of human activities in a 

landscape. Two primary distance zones fall within the analysis area as viewed from the scenic corridor; 

including: foreground (0-0.5 mile) and middle ground beyond the foreground up to 4.0 miles. 

Aesthetic Experience

“Scenic attractiveness is the primary indicator of the intrinsic scenic beauty of a landscape and the 

positive responses it evokes in people. It helps determine landscapes that are important for scenic beauty, 

based on commonly held perceptions of the beauty of landform, vegetation pattern, composition, surface 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 349

water characteristics, land use patterns, and cultural features” (Landscape Aesthetics: A handbook for 

Scenery Management, USDA, 1995). 

Scenic attractiveness is ordinarily very stable. However, in rare circumstances, scenic attractiveness may 

change because of natural disasters or human alteration of the landscape. Change may increase the 

potential for a “typical or common” landscape to become “distinctive”. 

Along access travel routes, and waterways within Central Oregon, natural disturbances such as past 

wildfires, insect and disease infestation, wind damage, and invasive plant infestation, and human 

alterations of the landscape are evident. As a result, the Central Oregon landscape is characterized by a 

mosaic of disturbed conditions due to natural and human caused alterations. 

The scenic quality within the project area is based generally on people’s perception, including emotional 

and/or physical attachment to the landscape from a sensory perspective (such as sight, sound, feel, taste, 

and touch) and cultural value (such as attitudes and beliefs).

Recreation Niche - Settings

The niche is, in part, determined by public expectations (demand) and by the ecological capabilities of the 

land (settings). In 2006, the two Forests developed a recreation niche statement. Public participants in this 

process described and mapped their preferred recreation activities and where they recreate. This "sense of 

place" map product was translated into a narrative about the relative importance of the Forest for various 

recreation opportunities, experiences and benefits and used to develop the recreation niche statement. The 

wide variety of visitor preferences and uses were grouped into spatial categories (settings). On the 

Deschutes National Forest there are three spatial categories: The Alpine Summit is the crest of the 

Cascade Range volcanoes that are the scenic backdrop of snowcapped peaks for Central Oregon visible 

from local communities. Many lakes nestled in alpine forests and meadows, accessed primarily by trails, 

afford solitude in a predominantly wilderness setting. The Recreation Hubs are the heart of Central 

Oregon recreation opportunities and gateways to the Alpine Summit and High Desert. It is characterized 

by volcanic mountains and buttes, caldera lakes, and rushing clear rivers cutting through the high desert 

terrain of majestic ponderosa pine. The High Desert is a land of dry pine forest, open space and big sky. 

Major highways are dotted with small rural communities, and ranches with traditional family ties. On the 

Ochoco National Forest, there are two spatial categories (settings): The Backyard is located closest to the 

more populated communities, nearby neighbors and families have easy access to the Forest and 

Grassland, giving them the opportunity to spend an hour or spend the day. The Back 40 -is adjacent to 

working ranches and located further from larger population centers, it offers a remote experience and 

allows for self-discovery & finding your own special place on a variety of roads and trails from highway 

to hiking.

Existing Condition 

The existing condition described in this document includes positive attributes and deviations from the 

scenic integrity of a valued landscape character and recreational experience level. Deviations from the 

scenic integrity of a valued landscape character and recreation experience are often caused by human or 

management activities. These may include changes from construction of facilities, unauthorized user 

created routes, dispersed campsites, increases in human interaction that socially affect quiet places or 

private areas, and naturally caused disturbance events, such as wildfire, insect and disease, invasive plant 

species, and flooding or erosion. The frame of reference for measuring achievement of scenic integrity 

levels is the valued attributes of the existing landscape character “being viewed”. In natural or natural 

appearing character this is limited to natural of natural appearing vegetative patterns and features, water, 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

350 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

rock and landforms. Direct human alterations may be included if they have become accepted over time as 

positive landscape character attributes (for example a split rail fence, or an old historic cabin). In general, 

a specific scenic integrity level can be achieved by decreasing the visual contrast of the deviation being 

viewed (Landscape Aesthetics: A handbook for Scenery Management, USDA, 1995). 

Table 147. Criteria for scenic integrity of landscape character, image and sense of place

(VH)

Very High

(H)

High

(M)

Moderate

(L)

Low

(VL)

Very Low

(UL)

Unacceptable

Dominance

Landscape 

Character vs., 

Deviation

Landscape 

Character

Landscape 

Character

Landscape 

Character Deviation Deviation Deviation

Degree of Deviation

From the Landscape 

Character

None Not 

Evident

Evident but not 

Dominant Dominant Very Dominant Extremely Dominant

Intactness of the 

Landscape 

Character

Landscape 

Character 

Fully 

Expressed

Landscape 

Character 

Largely 

Expressed

Slightly Altered 

and Character 

Expression 

Moderate

Altered and 

Low Expression 

of Character

Heavily Altered 

and Very Low 

Expression of 

Character

Extremely 

Altered

Recreation and Scenic Condition Summary

The recreation and scenic condition within the analysis area may or may not meet the expectations and 

preferences of many visitors or users in its current condition. An overall decline in forest health in 

addition to wildfire, invasive plant infestation, and other disturbances, including an increase in motorized 

recreation off designated routes, affects recreation experience and scenic characteristics of the area the 

most. Still, increasing visitor use indicates that this landscape continues to be valued and appreciated by 

the people who recreate and utilize this area for its strong “sense of place” settings (see recreation section 

on use and trends). 

Positive Landscape Attributes

Since their creation as parts of the Cascade Forest Reserve in 1893 and Blue Mountains Forest Reserve in 

1906, the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests have played an important role in Central Oregon’s 

social and economic history. These two national forests and the Crooked River National Grassland were 

the major supplier of timber, as well as grazing range land, during the decades when mills and cattle 

formed the core of Central Oregon’s economy. 

Primitive access roads, often no more than muddy dirt tracks on old wagon trails through pristine forest, 

had been constructed to most of the important points in and adjacent to these national forests by 1908. As 

cars became more common and access roads were improved, recreational use increased proportionally to 

the relative ease of access and travel into the area.

Today, the diverse landscapes, cultures, experiences, and distinctive places of the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests, along with that of the Crooked River National Grassland, encompass just over 2.5 

million acres of Central Oregon. These public land areas offer a wide variety and multitude of recreational 

opportunities and experiences. Some of the most popular activities, which draw over five million visitors 

to Central Oregon each year include boating, day use sites, dispersed and developed camping, fishing, 

white water rafting, guides and outfitters, rental and summer homes, rock hounding, summer and winter 

trails, wildlife viewing, outdoor photography, winter recreation, destination resorts, scenic drives, and 

OHV use (USDA Forest Service 2008d). 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 351

Deviations from Positive Landscape Attributes

In Central Oregon, natural and man-made forest disturbance processes are especially visible and 

accessible to the forest visitor along major travel corridors, including roads, trails, and waterways. This is 

particularly true for the eastern “High Desert” landscape prevalent on parts of the Ochoco National 

Forest, most of the Grassland, and Bend-Ft. Rock Ranger District where middle ground and background 

views can be seen from most designated routes. Access roads, unauthorized user created routes, utility 

corridors, recreation facility development, timber harvest activities, insect and disease infestation, 

wildfires, and the spread of invasive plants, all contribute to the alteration of natural landscape character 

and recreational experience. Motorized recreational use of the Forests and Grassland has continued to 

increase proportionally with area population increases. Observational data suggests that many of the 

unauthorized motorized routes have been created primarily for recreational riding and for access to

dispersed camping and other recreational opportunities. 

Figure 41. Photos showing effects of unauthorized routes on landscape elements

The relative ease of access off designated routes by motorized vehicles, including increased use of OHVs 

for both recreation and access is altering the natural landscape and affecting the recreational experience 

level on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, as well as the Crooked River National Grassland. 

Although there is no inventory specifically of unauthorized user created routes, an inventory of key areas 

completed in 2004 indicates that this type of use is rapidly increasing. These motorized routes are 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

352 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

becoming more visible to the casual observer, and in some cases, may not be visually subordinate, 

particularly along many of Central Oregon’s roads, trails, and waterways. This use is most visually 

evident in foregrounds along routes in popular use areas including riparian areas and buttes. Buttes can 

often be seen from middleground, or even background where wheel tracks and hill climb areas may 

become distinct visual elements that alter the form, line and texture of the landscape. 

Analysis of Environmental Effects

Alternative 1

Motorized Access off Designated Routes

As displayed in Table 148, approximately 103,000 acres on the Deschutes and 7,000 acres on the Ochoco 

National Forests within Scenic Views Management Areas are currently open year round or seasonally to 

cross-country travel. Effects to scenic views are generally within 1⁄4 mile of a major roadway, but can 

extend as far as 5 miles or more in the high desert areas that are primarily juniper and sagebrush. 

Although there is no comprehensive inventory of unauthorized user-created routes, foreground and 

middle-ground views of significant landscape features such as cinder cones or buttes have been altered by 

cross-country travel, especially in very popular areas for off highway vehicle use. It is expected that 

cross-country travel will increase commensurate with population increases (see Recreation Section). As 

the number of motorized routes increase across the landscape, it will increase the area where this activity 

is evident as a human alteration, and alter the form, line, color, and texture of the setting and aesthetics of 

the recreation experience. Over time, these alterations may substantially change the scenic views to the 

surrounding landscape, especially where the landscape features are highly visible. These deviations from 

the valued landscape character change the landscape over time and may not meet the Scenic Quality 

standards in areas with moderate to high scenic integrity where high use is visible. Under this alternative, 

especially in areas that are highly visible to the casual observer, the desired future condition for scenic 

resources may not meet public expectation, goals, and objectives.

Table 148. Alternative 1 – existing cross-country travel opportunities in scenic views management areas

FOREST DESCRIPTION

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes

Existing 

- Closed 

to OHV 

Access

Existing - 

Closed to 

OHV 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes

Existing - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes

Existing -

Open to 

Motorized 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes 

Allowed 

Seasonally

Grand 

Total

Deschutes 

Metolius Scenic 

View Partial 

Retention 

Foreground 6 2,087 5,454 7,548

Metolius Scenic 

View Partial 

Retention 

Middleground 57 228 285

Metolius Scenic 

View Retention 

Foreground 1,168 738 1,906

Scenic View 

Partial Retention 

Foreground 560 1,328 4,340 22,706 43,124 3,046 75,104
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 353

FOREST DESCRIPTION

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes

Existing 

- Closed 

to OHV 

Access

Existing - 

Closed to 

OHV 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes

Existing - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes

Existing -

Open to 

Motorized 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes 

Allowed 

Seasonally

Grand 

Total

Scenic View 

Partial Retention 

Middleground 160 11,524 11,399 16,186 31,776 2,860 73,905

Scenic View 

Retention 

Foreground 12 2,785 1,816 12,610 15,892 4,663 37,778

Scenic View 

Retention 

Middleground 457 857 90 1,701 3,105

Deschutes 

Total 738 19,406 18,412 58,012 92,493 10,569 199,630

Ochoco 

Recreation Trail 

Visual Retention 1,018 1,018

Summit Trail 

Partial Visual 

Retention 

Corridor 9 113 3,736 1,183 5,041

Summit Trail 

Preservation 

Corridor 127 56 183

Summit Trail 

Visual Retention 

Corridor 677 604 2,670 628 4,580

Summit Trail 

Visual Retention 

Corridors 100 100

U.S. Highway 26 

Visual Corridors 7,097 7,097

Visual 

Management 

Corridors (Partial 

Retention) 1,021 13,870 4,286 19,177

Visual 

Management 

Corridors 

(Retention) 1 4,264 890 5,154

Ochoco 

Total 1,708 1,735 31,864 7,043 42,350

Grassland

Lake Billy 

Chinook Viewing 

Area 483 483

 

Grassland 

Total 483 483

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

As displayed in Table 149, approximately 154,145 acres on the Deschutes National Forest and 38,906 

acres on the Ochoco National Forest are currently open year round or seasonally to motorized access for 

dispersed camping within the scenic views management areas. Effects to scenic views from these 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

354 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

motorized routes are generally within 1⁄4 mile of a major roadway, or from the dispersed site and include 

loss of vegetation and visible tracks within the view corridor. Both Forests and the Grassland have GIS 

layers that have mapped dispersed sites. In some cases these have been updated recently (1-5 years old) 

while in others the mapped sites are as many as 20 years old. On both Forests it is known that the GIS 

layers are incomplete and most likely do not include all existing dispersed sites, but they do provide a 

starting point for discussion on proximity and effects. Although there is no comprehensive inventory of 

unauthorized user-created routes to these dispersed sites, the foreground has been altered by motorized 

routes for dispersed camping, especially in very popular areas for camping and off highway vehicle use. 

Under Alternative 1, visual alterations from these routes or tracks are expected to increase commensurate 

with population increases and demand for dispersed camping (see Recreation Section for statistics and 

trends on dispersed camping). Increased motorized access routes will increase the area where this activity 

is visible and evident as a human alteration, and further alter the form, line, color, and texture of the 

setting and aesthetics of the recreation experience. Over time, these alterations may become a distinctive 

change to the scenic views of the surrounding landscape, although not substantially. These changes would 

be most notable in visually sensitive areas. These deviations from the valued landscape character and 

aesthetic experience changes to the landscape may not meet the scenic quality standard in areas where 

high use is visible. Under this alternative, especially in areas that are highly visible to the casual observer, 

the desired future condition for scenic resources may not meet scenic quality goals and objectives.

Table 149. Alternative 1 motorized access for dispersed camping in scenic views

FOREST DESCRIPTION

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping

Existing - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping

Existing -

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

Seasonally Grand Total

Deschutes 

Metolius Scenic 

View Partial 

Retention 

Foreground 6 7,542 7,548

Metolius Scenic 

View Partial 

Retention 

Middleground 285 285

Metolius Scenic 

View Retention 

Foreground 1,906 1,906

Scenic View 

Partial 

Retention 

Foreground 560 2,829 67,917 3,798 75,104

Scenic View 

Partial Retention 

Middleground 160 13,202 55,503 5,041 73,906

Scenic View 

Retention 

Foreground 12 5,063 28,167 4,535 37,777

Scenic View 

Retention 

Middleground 546 2,558 3,104

Deschutes 

Total 738 31,373 154,145 13,374 199,630

Ochoco 

Recreation Trail 

Visual 1,018 1,018
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 355 

FOREST DESCRIPTION

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping

Existing - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping

Existing -

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

Seasonally Grand Total

Retention

Summit Trail 

Partial Visual 

Retention 

Corridor 9 113 4,919 5,041

Summit Trail 

Preservation 

Corridor 183 183

Summit Trail 

Visual 

Retention 

Corridor 677 604 3,298 4,580

Summit Trail 

Visual 

Retention 

Corridors 100 100

U.S. Highway 

26 Visual 

Corridors 7,097 7,097

Visual 

Management 

Corridors 

(Partial 

Retention) 1,021 18,155 19,177

Visual 

Management 

Corridors 

(Retention) 1 5,153 5,154

Ochoco Total 1,708 1,735 38,906 42,350

Grassland 

Lake Billy 

Chinook 

Viewing Area 483 483

Grassland 

Total 483 483

Effects Common to Alternatives 2 and 3

Motorized Access off Designated Routes

On the Deschutes, approximately 52 percent, and on the Ochoco and Crooked River National Grassland, 

approximately 17 percent of areas that currently do not prohibit cross-country travel would be closed to 

cross-country travel within scenic views management areas. This does not include acreage where OHV 

cross-country travel is currently prohibited. See Table 150 for detailed acreages for each scenic view 

designation. 

This would have an indirect effect of allowing vegetation recovery in areas where vegetation has been 

altered by motorized use, and prevent future vegetation modification by cross-country travel. Restricting 

all motorized access to designated routes would substantially reduce the alteration of form, line, color, 

and texture across the landscape, and benefit the aesthetics and scenic views to the surrounding landscape, 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

356 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

especially where significant landscape features are highly visible, and where high use is visually evident 

such as cinder cones or buttes. This would preserve and enhance the scenic quality standards for these 

landscapes. Conversely, the recreation experience for motorized users that prefer off-road motorized 

recreational opportunities would be diminished. Limiting motorized access to designated routes would not 

provide for more primitive off road recreation opportunities that many users prefer and the landscape 

settings along designated routes may be less appealing to those who favor motorized off road experiences.

Table 150. Alternatives 2 and 3 – cross-country travel within scenic views management areas

FOREST DESCRIPTION

Continued 

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access

Continued 

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes

Continued 

Existing - 

Closed to 

OHV 

Access

Continued 

Existing - 

Closed to 

OHV 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes

Proposed - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes

Grand 

Total

Deschutes

Metolius Scenic 

View Partial 

Retention 

Foreground 6 2,087 5,454 7,548

Metolius Scenic 

View Partial 

Retention 

Middleground 57 228 285

Metolius Scenic 

View Retention 

Foreground 1,168 738 1,906

Scenic View 

Partial 

Retention 

Foreground 560 1,328 4,340 22,706 46,170 75,104

Scenic View 

Partial 

Retention 

Middleground 160 11,524 11,399 16,186 34,636 73,905

Scenic View 

Retention 

Foreground 12 2,785 1,816 12,610 20,555 37,778

Scenic View 

Retention 

Middleground 457 857 90 1,701 3,105

Deschutes 

Total 738 19,406 18,412 58,012 103,062 199,630

Ochoco

Recreation Trail 

Visual 

Retention 1,018 1,018

Summit Trail 

Partial 

Retention 

Visual Corridor 9 113 4,919 5,041

Summit Trail 

Preservation 

Corridor 127 56 183

Summit Trail 

Visual 

Retention 

Corridor 677 604 2,670 628 4,580

Summit Trail 

Visual 100 100
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 357

FOREST DESCRIPTION

Continued 

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access

Continued 

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes

Continued 

Existing - 

Closed to 

OHV 

Access

Continued 

Existing - 

Closed to 

OHV 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes

Proposed - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access Off 

Designated 

Routes

Grand 

Total

Retention 

Corridors

U.S. Highway 

26 Visual 

Corridors 7,097 7,097

Visual 

Management 

Corridors 

(Partial 

Retention) 1,021 13.870 4,286 19,177

Visual 

Management 

Corridors 

(Retention) 1 0 4,264 890 5,154

Ochoco 

Total 1708 1735 31,864 7.043 41,333

Grassland

Lake Billy 

Chinook 

Viewing Area 483 483

Grassland 

Total 483 483

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Under effects common to Alternatives 2 and 3, motorized access for dispersed camping would be 

prohibited on about 52 percent of the acreage within scenic management areas on the Deschutes and 

about 50 percent on the Ochoco National Forest. Effects to scenic views from these motorized routes are 

generally within 1⁄4 mile of a major roadway, or from the dispersed site and include loss of vegetation and 

visible tracks within the view corridor. Alterations to the foreground would be reduced where motorized 

access for dispersed camping is allowed only under the Special Provisions (designated, defined, or 

existing sites) because creating new motorized routes to access existing or new dispersed campsites would 

be discouraged. Under both alternatives, all motorized access for dispersed camping would be prohibited 

within 30 feet of a stream, or water body. Visual quality standards would be preserved as they currently 

exist on the landscape, and would not deteriorate due to motorized activity (see Table 151).

As described in the fisheries and hydrology sections, changing the conditions for cross-country travel and 

motorized access for dispersed camping would reduce the potential effects to vegetation and visual 

alterations from these motorized routes within scenic views management areas. It would have the 

beneficial effect of facilitating vegetation recovery along water bodies and stream channels, thus 

contributing to the improvement of the foreground area seen adjacent to major forest roads and from 

dispersed campsites.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

358 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Table 151. Alternatives 2 and 3 – motorized access for dispersed camping within scenic view management areas

Description

Continued 

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access

Continued 

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping

Continued 

Existing - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping

Continued 

Existing - Open 

to Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

Seasonally

Proposed - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping

Proposed - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping

Proposed - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

Seasonally

Proposed - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

Seasonally 

With Special 

Provisions - 

Non-Riparian

Proposed - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

Seasonally 

With Special 

Provisions - 

Riparian

Proposed - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

With 

Special 

Provisions 

- NonRiparian

Proposed - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

With 

Special 

Provisions 

- Riparian

Grand 

Total

Deschutes

Metolius 

Scenic View 

Partial 

Retention 

Foreground 6 4,712 1,764 1,065 7,548

Metolius 

Scenic View 

Partial 

Retention 

Middleground 228 57 285

Metolius 

Scenic View 

Retention 

Foreground 1,464 272 1 169 1,906

Scenic View 

Partial 

Retention 

Foreground 560 1,580 22,987 824 45,257 836 122 449 2 1,234 1,254 75,104

Scenic View 

Partial 

Retention 

Middleground 160 12,772 20,499 1,166 38,171 20 392 7 81 394 244 73,905

Scenic View 

Retention 

Foreground 12 4,413 8,961 1,458 20,067 314 120 180 1,616 635 37,777

Scenic View 

Retention 

Middleground 449 1,373 1,186 89 8 3,104

Deschutes 

Total 738 25,618 53,820 3,448 104,681 3,352 514 575 263 3,246 3,375 199,630

Ochoco

Recreation 

Trail Visual 

Retention 1,018 1,018
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 359

Description

Continued 

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access

Continued 

Existing - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping

Continued 

Existing - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping

Continued 

Existing - Open 

to Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

Seasonally

Proposed - 

Closed to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping

Proposed - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping

Proposed - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

Seasonally

Proposed - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

Seasonally 

With Special 

Provisions - 

Non-Riparian

Proposed - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

Seasonally 

With Special 

Provisions - 

Riparian

Proposed -

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

With 

Special 

Provisions 

- NonRiparian

Proposed - 

Open to 

Motorized 

Access For 

Dispersed 

Camping 

With 

Special 

Provisions 

- Riparian

Grand 

Total

Summit Trail 

Partial Visual 

Retention 

Corridor 0 113 1,798 62 2,000 542 526 5,041

Summit Trail 

Preservation 

Corridor 92 8 82 1 183

Summit Trail 

Visual 

Retention

Corridor 604 1,180 9 2,337 2 446 4,580

Summit Trail 

Visual 

Retention 

Corridors 16 30 55 100

U.S. Highway 

26 Visual 

Corridors 228 5,388 301 1,180 7,097

Visual 

Management 

Corridors 

(Partial 

Retention) 5,755 121 8,866 1 761 3,674 19,177

Visual 

Management 

Corridors 

(Retention) 1 1,068 47 2,387 393 1,258 5,154

Ochoco Total 1 1,735 10,137 247 21,090 1 2,000 7,139 42,350

Grassland

Lake Billy 

Chinook 

Viewing Area 424 59 483

Grassland 

Total 424 59 483

Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 361

Alternative 2

Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping

Alternative 2 would include all the actions identified as common to Alternatives 2 and 3. The primary 

difference between Alternatives 2 and 3 is where motorized access for dispersed camping would be 

subject to Special Provisions rather than subject to only the General Provisions. Both Alternatives 2 and 3 

would allow for motorized access for dispersed camping in riparian areas only under the Special 

Provision conditions. Alternative 2 would designate some areas as open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping subject to General Provisions only in the upland areas. Those routes and areas that would be 

open to motorized access for dispersed camping under either general or Special Provisions are shown on 

the map on CD 1 – Alternative 2 & 3- Motorized Access for Dispersed Camping.

Alternative 2 could result in unauthorized motorized access routes to new or existing campsites within 

scenic views management areas on about 30 percent of the acreage currently available for motorized 

access for dispersed camping on the Deschutes, and about 24 percent on the Ochoco National Forest and 

Crooked River National Grassland in those areas designated as open to dispersed camping under General 

Provisions (allowed within a 300 foot corridor along open designated routes). Effects to visual resources 

in these areas would be similar to those described in Alternative 1, continuing and increasing 

commensurate with a rising population and demand for dispersed camping. There may be increased 

demand to create sites within these open areas when access to other sites is restricted to Special 

Provisions. Motorized access for dispersed camping would be restricted to 300 feet from an open 

designated route under General Provisions, or to designated, defined, or existing sites under the Special 

Provisions. These restrictions would reduce impacts to visual resources to a greater degree than 

Alternative 1, which would continue to permit unregulated motorized access for dispersed camping on 

about 84 percent of the Deschutes National Forest, and about 91 percent of the Ochoco National Forest 

and Crooked River National Grassland. In the areas where motorized access for dispersed camping would 

be subject to Special Provisions, either year round or seasonally, motorized access would be allowed only 

to designated, defined, or existing campsites on roughly 3 percent of the Deschutes National Forest, and 

roughly 2 percent of the Ochoco National Forest. Within these areas, there would be a reduction in the 

loss of vegetation and visible tracks within site distance of major roads since new motorized access routes 

would be discouraged. It is possible that the designated, defined, or existing sites may experience higher 

use levels as population and demand for dispersed camping opportunities increase over time. This may 

cause a somewhat greater site specific effect to visual resources as more motorized vehicles access these 

sites more often than in the past. Overall, there would be a beneficial effect to scenic view management 

areas in the areas where motorized access for dispersed camping is allowed only under the Special 

Provisions. Both Forests and the Grassland have GIS layers that have mapped dispersed sites. In some 

cases these have been updated recently (1-5 years old) while in others the mapped sites are as many as 20 

years old. On both Forests it is known that the GIS layers are incomplete and most likely do not include 

all existing dispersed sites, but they do provide a starting point for discussion on proximity and effects. 

Based on the current data available on motorized access for dispersed camping in upland areas, this 

change would be unquantifiable. 

Alternative 3

Alternative 3 would include all of the actions common to Alternatives 2 and 3. Alternative 3 would 

restrict motorized access for dispersed camping by Special Provision to designated, defined or existing 

sites along all open designated routes. Within scenic management areas, approximately 30 percent of the 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

362 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Deschutes currently available for motorized access for dispersed camping, and about 24 percent of the 

Ochoco, would change from General Provisions in Alternative 2 to Special Provisions; either year round, 

or seasonally. This would further reduce the loss of vegetation and visible tracks within site distance of 

major roads since new motorized access routes would be discouraged. It is possible that the designated, 

defined, or existing sites may experience higher use levels as population and demand for dispersed 

camping opportunities increase over time. This may cause a somewhat greater site specific effect to visual 

resources as more motorized vehicles access these sites more often than in the past. Overall, there would 

be a beneficial effect to scenic view management areas. Both Forests and the Grassland have GIS layers 

that have mapped dispersed sites. In some cases these have been updated recently (1-5 years old) while in 

others the mapped sites are as many as 20 years old. On both Forests it is known that the GIS layers are 

incomplete and most likely do not include all existing dispersed sites, but they do provide a starting point 

for discussion on proximity and effects. Based on the current data available on motorized access for 

dispersed camping in upland areas, this change would be unquantifiable. 

Conclusion

The potential effects to scenic view management areas from cross-country travel, and motorized access 

for dispersed camping (as defined under Alternative 1) would be reduced under both Alternatives 2 and 3. 

Overall, there would be a beneficial effect to scenic view management areas. 

Alternative 3 provides the highest level of protection to scenic view management areas. On the Deschutes 

National Forest, about 1 percent would be closed to all motorized access, and about 63 percent would be 

closed to motorized access for dispersed camping. On the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River 

National Grassland, about 54 percent would be closed to motorized access for dispersed camping. 

Alternative 3 would designate approximately 33 percent on the Deschutes and approximately 28 percent

on the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland as open to motorized access for 

dispersed camping with Special Provisions.

Climate Change

Executive Summary

Understanding and documenting the effects of 1) Forest Service decisions on climate change and 2) 

climate change on Forest Service decisions are important priorities for the agency under Chief Tidwell. 

The Washington Office has issued guidance to units outlining procedures for assessing the effect of 

proposals on the climate. Following that guidance, the interdisciplinary team considered the potential 

direct effect of the proposed action and alternatives, on the emission of greenhouse gases and determined 

that there would be no direct effect. The interdisciplinary team also considered the indirect effect of 

potential emissions causing changes in the climate due to increased atmospheric gases and concluded that 

there are no measurable indirect effects from the proposed action or alternatives. Additionally, although 

potential changes in climate were not identified in the purpose and need for action of this EIS, 

Alternatives 2 and 3 have the added benefit of being effective climate change adaptation strategies 

because they protect Forest resources from the damaging effects to Forest and Grassland resources 

resulting from motorized travel across the landscape, which could be exacerbated by the projected effects 

of climate change.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 363

Affected Environment

The Forest Service is currently investing in considerable research and study of the potential effects of 

forest management on climate change and climate change on forest management. Past Forest Service 

Chief Abigail Kimbell organized, and current Chief Tom Tidwell has continued, an agency-wide 

framework to respond to climate change (USDA Forest Service 2008e). In this framework, two major 

strategies are identified to "help the Forest Service carry out the mission of sustaining forests and 

grasslands for present and future generations under a changing climate." Facilitated adaptation, which 

refers to regional or site-specific "actions to adjust to and reduce the negative impacts of climate change 

on ecological, economic, and social systems", was identified as one of these strategies. Specifically, this 

framework called for adaptive strategies that anticipate actual or expected climate change effects to 

"prevent serious disruptions" to ecosystem function and ecosystem services. This approach for 

management of future biodiversity in light of a changing climate has been suggested by others as one 

strategy for facilitating positive population response to large-scale disturbances and changing conditions 

(Opdam and Wascher 2004). 

The U.S. Climate Change Science Program (CCSP) and the Subcommittee on Global Change Research 

detailed potential adaptation approaches and management options that the Forest Service might adopt to 

help achieve its goals and objectives in the face of climate change (Joyce et. al. 2008, CCSP 2008, Blate 

et al. 2009). As it relates to travel management planning, CCSP (2008) and Blate et al. (2009) found that 

in order to meet the goal of sustaining and enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities (one of the seven

goals identified in FY2007 - 2012 USDA Forest Service Strategic Plan (USDA Forest Service 2007a)), 

recreational impacts on ecosystems in light of a changing climate should be evaluated. 

On January 13, 2009, the Washington Office of the Forest Service released guidance to Forest Service 

units regarding the incorporation of climate change science into project-level NEPA documents (USDA 

Forest Service 2009). This guidance document provides that units should consider two kinds of climate 

change effects. First, units may, where appropriate, consider the effect of a project on climate change. 

Second, units may, where appropriate, consider the effect of climate change on a proposal. This latter 

category may include the effect of changed snowfall regimes on special use permit issuance for ski areas 

or the effect of rainfall changes on reforestation following a timber sale. Forest Service direction on 

climate change consideration also notes, "[i]t is possible, and in some projects likely, that proposals may 

meet the Agency's mission while also enhancing the resilience or adaptive capacity of resources to the 

potential impacts of climate change. For example, projects designed to restore the health, resilience, and 

productivity of forested ecosystems may also improve the capability of the stands or landscape to 

withstand climate change stresses" (USDA 2009). 

General Effects of Projected Climate Change

The Atmospheric-Ocean General Circulation Model projects a general warming with the magnitude 

projected to increase almost linearly over time. Warming in the USA is projected to exceed 2oC (3.6oF) by 

nearly all models and to exceed 4oC (7.2oF) by more than 5 out of 21 Atmospheric-Ocean General 

Circulation Models by the turn of the next century. Table S11.2 in Christensen et al. (2007) indicates that 

by the turn of the next century December through January temperatures in Western North America 

(WNA) could increase 3.7oC (6.7oF) and precipitation increase by 7 percent based on the 50 percentile 

probability on a normal distribution bell curve using the Tebaldi et al.(2004, 2005) method. June through 

August temperatures are projected to increase 3.6oC (6.5oF) and precipitation decrease 4 percent. This 

much of a temperature increase would probably move the transitory snow line to near 6,000 feet based on 

an adiabatic lapse rate of 250 feet per 1oF (half way between dry and usual saturated above freezing lapse 

rate).
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

364 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

The following projected climate changes in the hydrologic cycle are presented in Climate Change and 

Water - Perspective from the Forest Service (2008):

• Warmer air temperatures

• Warmer stream and reservoir water temperatures

• More rain and less snow with earlier snowmelt

• Earlier spring runoff with larger flood peaks. Less summer stream flow with smaller headwater 

stream networks

• More precipitation in the Pacific Northwest with greater inter-annual variability

• More intense storms with more flooding and extreme winds

• More evapotranspiration. Dryer vegetation and soils. More severe droughts. Increased wildfires and 

area burned.

Peak Flow

Increased rain-on-snow events would increase extreme runoff contributing to more severe flood events. 

Peak flows from snow melt would occur earlier in the spring. High discharges from intense summer 

thunderstorms would also increase. 

Base Flow

Increased rainfall over snowfall, warmer winter temperatures, and the increase in the transitory snow zone 

will result in lower snow packs. The onset of earlier spring snowmelt will shift the bulk of the hydrograph 

to earlier in the season. This will result in less summer stream flow and an increase in intermittent and 

spatially intermittent stream flow (less perennial stream miles). 

Water Quality

Higher peak flows resulting from rain on snow events and high intensity summer thunderstorms could 

result in increased surface and channel erosion. 

Temperature

Higher air temperatures and decreased summer stream flows would result in higher water temperatures.

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest 

Spring fed (groundwater) streams on the Deschutes National Forest may have a different response to 

climate change than those snow-melt dominated (surface water) streams of the Ochoco National Forest. 

The groundwater streams of the Deschutes National Forest are fed by large underground aquifers 

composed of young lava which acts like a giant sponge. The porous lava absorbs almost all rain and 

snowmelt, which is then stored in large aquifers for slow release at various times of the year. Conversely, 

streams on the Ochoco National Forest do not have large aquifers and springs that supply water to 

streams. They are more reliant upon snowmelt for surface stream flow. If there is less snowpack due to a 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 365

warmer climate there would be less water available for runoff and these surface water streams would 

exhaust their water supply sooner in the year. Consequently, the spring-fed rivers of the Deschutes 

National Forest may be more resilient to a warmer climate than those on the Ochoco National Forest.

Climate Change and Effects to Other Resources

Although many questions surrounding climate change remain unanswered, including what effects climate 

change might have on the resources impacted by travel management planning, and research suggests that 

current methods used to forecast climate change effects have limitations and caveats (Botkin et al. 2007, 

Morin and Thuiller 2009), the best available science on the potential effects of climate change suggests 

that the previously mentioned general climate change effects could have cascading implications on 

ecosystems, including but not limited to:

• Loss or increasingly fragmented populations of native species with small population sizes, restricted 

ranges, specialized habitat requirements, and/or limited ability to move to different habitats (Ruggiero 

et al. 2008, Raphael 2008)

• Expansion of invasive species with warming temperatures and increased frequency and area burned 

(Ruggiero et al. 2008; Peterson and McKenzie 2008)

• Advancement of the tree line into areas which were formerly "too cold" to support tree growth; Tree 

mortality in areas experiencing greater frequency and area burned by wildfire (Grace et al. 2002, 

Peterson and McKenzie 2008)

• Increased bark beetle activity in higher elevations (Bentz 2008)

• Improved fish habitat complexity as a result of increased flooding and consequently flood plain 

reconnection and large wood recruitment; High levels of mortality for fall- and winter- spawning fish 

when exposed to increased flood flows (Bisson 2008)

Analysis of Environmental Effects

The Effect of the Proposal on Climate Change 

Agency direction defines the emission of greenhouse gases and effects to carbon cycling as the direct 

climate change effects of a project. Further, the interaction of emissions with atmospheric concentrations 

of greenhouse gasses such that they impact the climate is defined as the potential indirect climate change 

effect (USDA Forest Service 2009). 

Under this definition, there is no direct effect associated with any of the proposed actions considered in 

any of the alternatives. These alternatives do not authorize the emission of greenhouse gasses; the action 

alternatives do not limit the emission of greenhouse gasses; the action alternatives are unlikely to change 

carbon cycling or the emission of greenhouse gasses as compared to the no action alternative. 

Regarding indirect effects, Agency direction states, "[b]ecause greenhouse gases mix readily into the 

global pool of greenhouse gases, it is not currently possible to ascertain the indirect effects of emissions 

from single or multiple sources (projects). Also, because the large majority of Forest Service projects are 

extremely small in the global atmospheric CO2 context, it is not presently possible to conduct quantitative 

analysis of actual climate change effects based on individual projects" (USDA Forest Service 2009). 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

366 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Under this guidance, Alternatives 2 and 3 do not have measurable indirect effects as compared with the no 

action Alternative.

The Effect of Climate Change on the Proposal 

While Alternatives 2 and 3 are not specifically designed to reduce the emission of greenhouse gasses, they 

may have a benefit, compared to the no action alternative, associated with enhancing the resilience or 

adaptive capacity of ecosystems. In other words, although the primary intent of the EIS was to implement 

the criteria put forth by the 2005 Travel Management Rule, Alternatives 2 and 3 also effectively put the 

Forests and Grassland in better position to adapt to the anticipated effects of future climate change by 

restricting motorized vehicles to designated routes and protecting Forest resources from “damaging 

traffic”. The impacts of "damaging traffic" or motorized travel across the landscape that impacts 

vegetation and consequently soils, water, fisheries, wildlife, and all other resources have been detailed in 

chapter 3 of the EIS and are reiterated by Joyce et al. (2008). Joyce et al. (2008) cited unmanaged 

recreation as one of the current major stressors on National Forest land. According to Joyce et al. (2008), 

"the creation of unauthorized roads and trails by off-highway vehicles (OHVs) causes erosion, degrades 

water quality, and destroys habitat." As the previous examples of potential cascading ecosystem effects 

have shown, the effects of motorized access on forest resources documented in the EIS (e.g., invasive 

species spread, habitat fragmentation, erosion, etc.) could be worsened by the projected effects of climate 

change. Consequently, by restricting motorized access, Alternatives 2 and 3, have the indirect 

supplemental benefit, when compared to the no action alternative, of promoting landscape-level resilience 

to climate change within the Forests and Grassland. 

Cumulative Effects 

Executive Summary

The direct and indirect physical and biological effects of prohibiting cross-country travel, changing the 

conditions of motorized access for dispersed camping, and changing the motorized mixed use on existing 

designated routes are generally beneficial. Therefore, there would be no adverse cumulative effects of 

implementing these proposed actions on any of the physical or biological resources. The combined 

physical and biological effects of other past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions that also 

affect motorized access may reduce the level of benefits realized to the physical and biological resources 

from the proposed actions in this EIS. The cumulative actions that were primarily considered include 

vegetation management actions that may create conditions more conducive to motorized access, road 

management activities, and proposed motorized trail projects. Vegetative conditions created by wildfires – 

although not federal actions under the National Environmental Quality Act – were also considered 

because wildfire areas can also create vegetative conditions that may be more conducive to motorized 

access compared to untreated. However, for the most part, the actual degree to which other past, present, 

or reasonably future actions would reduce the potential benefits of the proposed actions cannot be 

analyzed in a meaningful way due to the small-scale localized nature of these actions when compared to 

the proposed actions or because of the uncertain nature of the predicted time and actual impacts of these 

activities. Ongoing programs and permitted activities are so numerous and ubiquitous across the Forest 

that accumulating extensive site-specific data on activities such as resort operations or individual 

recreation events is neither reasonable nor warranted in order to understand the potential cumulative 

effects of the actions considered in this EIS.

The primary potential adverse cumulative effects of these proposed actions, when considered with other 

past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future action are the reduction or elimination of certain kinds of 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 367

motorized recreational or access opportunities on an extended area across the Pacific NW Region. The 

greatest potential cumulative effect is the loss of general motorized access off of designated routes (roads 

and trails) or outside of designated areas (cross-country travel), given the local, regional, and national 

application of the Travel Management Rule. There appears to be a trend for limiting motorized access to 

designated routes on public lands (Upper Deschutes Resource Management Plan, John Day Resource 

Management Plan, proposed actions for implementing the Travel Management Rule on the Willamette, 

Umpqua, and Fremont-Winema Forests); as well as private forest and ranchlands and county lands in the 

local area. Given the national scope of the Travel Management Rule, there is a potentially significant 

adverse effect to off-road motorized travel opportunities across the Pacific Northwest region. The degree 

to which the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests are likely to contribute to this cumulative effect 

cannot be reasonably predicted. This adverse effect may be considerably lessened when combined with 

the over 800 miles of existing designated motorized trail systems on public lands in the Central Oregon 

area, and the over 8,000 miles of existing designated roads of varying technical difficulty. The 

development of proposed motorized trail systems may also reduce this adverse effect by providing 

additional designated motorized trail opportunities. However, it is not possible to predict whether or how 

many trail miles may be finally approved or which users they would benefit. There are also potential 

cumulative effects to opportunities for motorized access for dispersed camping, although not likely to be 

as widespread as the effects of limitations on cross-country travel, since 80 percent of the existing known 

sites are within 300 feet of an open designated road. 

Affected Environment

According to the EPA’s guidance67 “Cumulative impacts result when the effects of an action are added to 

or interact with other effects in a particular place and within a particular time. It is the combination of 

these effects, and any resulting environmental degradation (emphasis added), that should be the focus of 

cumulative impact analysis.”

The federal actions proposed in this FEIS would prohibit and/or modify the conditions under which 

motorized access can occur across a two million acre landscape that includes two national forests and a 

national grassland. Thus, the geographic scope of this proposal is quite extensive, and the universe of 

possible actions – both federal and non-federal - that could be considered as “cumulative actions” within 

the even larger area encompassed by the lands that lie between the federal lands is immense. This scope 

necessarily lends itself to proscribing a focused approach to understanding what the most important types 

of actions are to consider for cumulative effects as indicated by the EPA guidance, and to look at those 

types of actions at a broad scale (rather than a smaller localized scale) where appropriate to consider the 

cumulative effects of the proposed actions. 

The analyses of the relevant direct and indirect effect on physical and biological resources from the 

actions proposed in this EIS have indicated generally beneficial effects. Determinations of beneficial, 

neutral, or no adverse direct and indirect effects have been made for those resources analyzed in detail in 

this FEIS based on a combination of applying the current best scientific literature and landscape-level 

data analysis and modeling to consider the context, duration, and intensity of probable effects associated 

with the proposed actions. When considering past, present, and reasonably future actions, both federal and 

non-federal, the following factors were considered:

• All future federal actions proposed are subject to a variety of laws, regulations, and policies, and 

procedures such as the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act, the National Forest 

 

67 Consideration of Cumulative Impacts in EPA Review of NEPA Documents, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of 

Federal Activities (2252A); EPA 315-R-99-002/May 1999; pg 2; excerpted from website http://www.epa.gov. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

368 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Management Act, the Endangered Species Act, or the National Historic Preservation Act68. These 

laws, regulations, and policies help to reduce the potential for adverse direct or indirect effects of 

future site-specific projects related to key resources such as wetlands and riparian areas, threatened 

and endangered fish, flora and fauna species. Future actions would also consider the significance of 

effects of those actions. Even if significant, the potential beneficial effect of the actions proposed in 

this EIS would be reduced, but these proposed actions would not contribute to a cumulative 

degradation of the environment. 

• Population growth and increasing development trends for urban growth boundaries, rural residential 

areas, and destination resorts within and adjacent to National Forest lands, while somewhat slowed 

compared to the recent past, continues to be predicted on an upward trend. Although these non-federal 

actions are likely to result in increasing impacts on resources associated with motorized access, the 

potential effects of these actions on National Forest lands would also be reduced as a result of the 

proposed actions considered in this EIS (See effects to air quality).

Therefore, these resources69 are not considered further in this cumulative effects analysis. This reflects the 

EPA guidance that the cumulative effects analysis should focus on those actions and effects that could 

degrade the environment. If the proposed actions have no adverse direct or indirect effects, then the 

effects of the proposed actions when combined with other past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future 

actions, would not result in an adverse cumulative effect. Therefore, the analysis of the cumulative effects 

of the proposed actions are limited to those past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions that 

could contribute to the anticipated adverse direct and indirect effects of the proposed actions.

Adverse effects associated with the proposed actions are primarily related to motorized access, and will 

potentially adversely affect the communities of interest that value unregulated motorized access on 

National Forest lands. Therefore, actions that could affect the amount of motorized access were 

considered in more detail to determine the potential cumulative effect of the proposed actions considered 

in this EIS. Those actions that were determined to potentially affect the amount of area or conditions of 

use for motorized access considered in this EIS are:

• Vegetation management activities within areas open to motorized access for dispersed camping 

under General Provisions or motorized access off of designated routes. Vegetation management 

activities may create conditions that are more conducive to cross-country travel or to motorized 

access for dispersed camping than many untreated areas. The activities considered in detail included 

hazardous fuels, timber, and silvicultural treatments (see Appendix B-7.3 for detailed descriptions of 

these treatments). Descriptions of these activities that could affect motorized access that were

completed prior to 2004 are included in the past actions and existing condition section of this 

analysis, and those planned or completed after 2004 are included in the description of present and 

reasonably foreseeable actions (see Vegetation Management Activities). 

 

68 For example, all types of proposed projects that would commit new areas with the potential to affect heritage resources 

detrimentally would require compliance with the Region 6 Programmatic Agreement for implementing Section.106 (S. 106) of 

the Archaeological Resources Protection Act along with the appropriate application of the National Environmental Policy Act 

(NEPA). Thus, any potential impacts to heritage resources can be mitigated in specific project design by avoidance or monitoring 

and archaeological recovery. Tribal consultation would be conducted under both S. 106 and NEPA to determine, among other 

things, if areas of cultural interest or traditional cultural properties are present. 

69 These include air quality, Congressionally Designated Areas, fire risk, fisheries, geology, heritage resources, hydrology, 

invasive plants, Inventoried Roadless Areas, native vegetation, range and livestock management, scenery, soils, climate change, 

and wildlife. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 369

• Proposed motorized trails projects. These projects would increase the amount of designated 

motorized routes, staging areas, “open” areas, and could add areas designated for motorized access 

for dispersed camping. These projects were described in chapter 2 and are included in present and 

reasonably foreseeable future actions.

• Motorized access and road management decisions. Past decisions about motorized access have 

contributed cumulatively to the amount and conditions of motorized access across the two Forests and 

Grassland. Road management decisions and other National Forest travel management decisions may 

result in the changing of routes and areas that are open to public use. Past decisions about motorized 

access or road management decisions are included in the past actions and existing conditions. 

Proposed road management decisions are included in the present and reasonably foreseeable future 

actions.

Management of dispersed campsites across the two Forests and Grassland was also initially considered in 

the evaluation of the potential for cumulative effects of the proposed action. There are ongoing activities 

across both Forests and the Grassland to manage dispersed campsites. These include activities to define 

the dispersed campsites that could add boulders or wood structures to existing dispersed sites. These 

activities could either increase or decrease riparian setbacks within localized areas, and would also 

eliminate, reduce, or otherwise change some existing motorized access to dispersed campsites. These 

ongoing program actions are usually minor and are not expected to significantly contribute to any adverse 

effect to motorized access absent additional environmental analysis and decision-making as required by 

the National Environmental Policy Act.

Although the clear intent of the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) regulations are to focus on 

federal and non-federal actions, landscape conditions such as wildfires can also contribute to conditions 

that could affect motorized access across the landscape. Fire is a significant disturbance mechanism on 

the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. Historical Forest records indicate that fires, both human and 

lightning-caused, have burned significant acreage across both Forests, despite fire suppression efforts. On 

the Deschutes, polygon fire history records (which generally contain fires larger than 100 acres) from 

1908 to 2007 show that 238 fires have burned over 411,000 acres (approximately 318,000 acres of 

ground; 16 percent of the Forest total). On the Ochoco National Forest, similar fire history records from 

1961 – 2007 show that 33 fires have burned nearly 57,000 acres (approximately 46,000 acres of ground; 6 

percent of the Forest total). Therefore, past wildfires were also considered as a part of the existing 

conditions that could affect motorized access.

Past Actions and Existing Conditions that Affect Motorized Access 

This cumulative effects analysis does not attempt to quantify the effects of past human actions by adding 

up all prior actions on an action-by-action basis. There are several reasons for not taking this approach. 

First, a catalog and analysis of all past actions would be impractical to compile and unduly costly to 

obtain. Current conditions have been impacted by innumerable actions over the last century (and beyond), 

and trying to isolate the individual actions that continue to have residual impacts would be nearly 

impossible. Second, providing the details of past actions on an individual basis would not be useful to 

predict the cumulative effects of the proposed action or alternatives. In fact, focusing on individual 

actions would be less accurate than looking at existing conditions, because there is limited information on 

the environmental impacts of individual past actions, and one cannot reasonably identify each and every 

action over the last century that has contributed to current conditions. Additionally, focusing on the 

impacts of past human actions risks ignoring the important residual effects of past natural events, which 

may contribute to cumulative effects just as much as human actions. By looking at current conditions, we 

are sure to capture all the residual effects of past human actions and natural events, regardless of which 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

370 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

particular action or event contributed those effects. Finally, the Council on Environmental Quality issued 

an interpretive memorandum on June 24, 2005 regarding analysis of past actions, which states, “agencies 

can conduct an adequate cumulative effects analysis by focusing on the current aggregate effects of past 

actions without delving into the historical details of individual past actions.” The cumulative effects 

analysis in this EIS is also consistent with Forest Service National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) 

Regulations (36 CFR 220.4(f)) (July 24, 2008), which state, in part:

CEQ regulations do not require the consideration of the individual effects 

of all past actions to determine the present effects of past actions. Once 

the agency has identified those present effects of past actions that 

warrant consideration, the agency assesses the extent that the effects of 

the proposal for agency action or its alternatives will add to, modify, or 

mitigate those effects. The final analysis documents an agency 

assessment of the cumulative effects of the actions considered (including 

past, present, and reasonable foreseeable future actions) on the affected 

environment. With respect to past actions, during the scoping process 

and subsequent preparation of the analysis, the agency must determine 

what information regarding past actions is useful and relevant to the 

required analysis of cumulative effects. Cataloging past actions and 

specific information about the direct and indirect effects of their design 

and implementation could in some contexts be useful to predict the 

cumulative effects of the proposal. The CEQ regulations, however, do 

not require agencies to catalogue or exhaustively list and analyze all 

individual past actions. Simply because information about past actions 

may be available or obtained with reasonable effort does not mean that it 

is relevant and necessary to inform decision making (40 CFR 1508.7).

Vegetation Management Activities & Wildfires70 

2004-2008 – This grouping of projects is the most recent, and are likely to have the freshest and perhaps 

most distinct changes in vegetative conditions. During this time period, 112,915 and 59,738 acres, 

respectively, on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, received some sort of planned vegetation 

treatment that may have resulted in forest conditions more conducive to motorized access. Approximately 

83 percent and 90 percent, respectively, on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, of these acres are 

currently open to motorized access for dispersed camping, and 58 percent and 74 percent, respectively, on 

the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, of these acres are currently open to cross-country travel. See 

Table 152 for a breakdown of these acres. See Appendix B-7.3 (Table 43) for project, sale, or planning 

area names and acres of treated ground, and the NEPA documents under which most of these acres were 

treated. Of these acres, approximately 26,975 acres on the Deschutes and 7,532 acres on the Ochoco 

would continue to be available for motorized access for dispersed camping under General Provisions in 

Alternative 2. Under Alternative 3, the amount of area available for motorized access for dispersed 

camping would be limited to only those areas with existing, designated or defined sites. This would alter 

the potential for effects of vegetation management to combine with effects from motorized access, since 

 

70 Spatial records may overestimate actual treatment completed on the ground. The extent of this overestimation was not 

determined. This is a result of reporting procedures, which do not require a spatial representation of the exact treated ground 

acreage if different from the unit boundary (e.g., if a unit is only partially burned during a prescribed fire, a new spatial shape for 

the partial acreage is not required) and the heterogeneity of ground treated when projects are implemented (e.g., not every inch of 

ground within a unit boundary will become more conducive to motorized access as a result of treatment). This effect is likely 

more pronounced with more historical records, as spatial mapping capabilities were not as sophisticated as they are today. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 371

vehicles would be restricted to designated, existing, and defined dispersed camping sites, limiting future 

ground disturbance.

Table 152. Acres of planned vegetation treatments from 2004-2008 

Forest

Open to Cross-country 

Travel

(acres)

Open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping

(acres)

Deschutes NF 65,197 93,247

Ochoco NF 44,151 53,840

During this time period on the Deschutes National Forest, the most common management activities 

within those acres were burning of piled material; piling of fuels (hand or machine); precommercial and 

commercial thinning. Similarly on the Ochoco National Forest, the most common management activities 

during this time period were precommercial thinning, underburning, pile burning, jackpot burning; and 

hand or machine piling of fuels. 

Approximately 31,689 acres of the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests were reported as burned by 

large wildfires, during this time period (excluding 2008 and 2009). 2,258 of these acres are currently open 

to motorized access for dispersed camping and 1,850 open to cross-country travel. These fires are listed in

Table 153. Within these areas, approximately 30 acres on the Deschutes and 173 acres on the Ochoco 

National Forest would continue to be or are proposed to be open to motorized access for dispersed 

camping under General Provisions in Alternative 2. 

Table 153. Large wildfires on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests from 2004-2007 

Fire Name Year Acres 

Reported District

Deschutes National Forest

GW 2007 7357 Sisters

Woodside Ranch 2007 589 Bend Fort Rock

Lake George 2006 5550 Sisters

Cave 2005 652 Bend Fort Rock

Black Crater 2006 9400 Sisters

Ochoco National Forest

Buck Butte 2002 105 Crooked River NG

Geneva 3 2006 480 Crooked River NG

890 2006 382 Crooked River NG

Mill 2005 29 Lookout Mountain

Maxwell 2006 7145 Lookout Mountain

Note: Fires names highlighted with bold text have burned in areas open to motorized access for dispersed camping and/or areas 

open to motorized access for dispersed camping

Pre - 2004 - This grouping of projects has occurred long enough ago that, depending upon site conditions, 

change from the vegetative conditions in place immediately following the treatment may have occurred. 

During this time period, 560,116 and 189,696 acres of ground, respectively, on the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests, received some sort of planned vegetation treatment that may result in forest conditions 

more conducive to motorized access. Approximately 51 percent (285,605 acres) and 84 percent (159,739 

acres), respectively, on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, are currently open to motorized 

access off of designated routes for dispersed camping and approximately 79 percent (441,512 acres) and 

95 percent (180,932 acres), respectively, of these treated areas on the Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forests, are currently open to motorized access for dispersed camping. The conditions resulting from 

these planned vegetation treatments and wildfires prior to 2004 are reflected in the 2004 satellite imagery. 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

372 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Appendix B-7.3.3 includes a detailed list of the wildfires and acres treated that were considered as 

contributing to this existing condition prior to 2004. 

Motorized Access & Road Management Decisions

Past actions and decisions that have contributed to the existing conditions affecting motorized access 

include establishment of Congressionally Designated Areas such as wilderness, wild and scenic rivers, 

and the Newberry National Volcanic Monument; and associated Forest Land and Resource or Travel 

Management Plans that have limited motorized access to differing degrees. A description of the existing 

condition of motorized access is included in the description of the amount of area open to different types 

of motorized access in Alternative 1 in Chapters 2 and 3. Approximately 1,300 miles of open roads have 

been closed or decommissioned on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests since 1990.

Present and Reasonably Foreseeable Future Actions

Vegetation Management Activities 

For the purpose of this analysis, reasonably foreseeable future vegetation management activities are those 

that are “in-progress” or “completed”, in terms of status in the NEPA planning process (as opposed to 

status of implementation on the ground) in fiscal year 2009 (October 1, 2008 – September 30, 2009). 

Explicit planned treatment acreage is available for “completed” projects only. In the reasonably 

foreseeable future, approximately 36,822 and 266 acres on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests 

are planned to be treated under NEPA completed in fiscal year 2009. These projects may fall within areas 

proposed to be open to motorized access for dispersed camping under either general or Special Provisions 

in Alternative 2 that would lead to additional acreage that is more conducive to motorized access than 

many untreated areas. See chapter 3 Vegetation Management Activities and Wildfires for more detail 

related to these projects. 

Motorized Access Decisions

The Forests surrounding the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest include the Fremont-Winema, 

Umpqua, Malheur, and Willamette. All National Forests in the Pacific NW Region are anticipated to have 

their Motor Vehicle Use Maps completed by the end of 2012. 

Road Management Activities

Based on the current Schedule of Proposed Actions, 300-400 miles of existing designated open roads are 

currently being proposed for closure or decommissioning through a variety of projects. However, final 

decisions on these projects have not been completed.

Proposed Motorized Trails Projects

The Three Trails and Lava Rock Motorized Trails Projects, as currently proposed, could include 330- 380 

miles of additional proposed motorized trails for different classes of vehicles. The Ochoco Summit 

Motorized Trail project proposes around 120 miles of motorized trails that includes shared use roads. The 

project is also considering closing some existing designated system roads, but has not yet solidified a 

proposal at the time of this publication. The Meadow Lakes Restoration Project is currently too early in 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 373

the development process to have specific proposals for miles of trails or effects on the designated road 

system or motorized access for dispersed camping. 

Analysis of Cumulative Effects

The National Forests surrounding the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and in the entire Pacific 

NW Region are in the process of implementing the Travel Management Rule or have existing travel 

management plans that are generally resulting in fewer opportunities for motorized access off of 

designated routes (cross-country travel), and fewer open routes for OHV use. This is also a trend being 

seen on private industrial timberlands that are within or adjacent to the National Forests. Alternatives 2 

and 3 would both contribute equally to this cumulative effect locally, regionally, and nationally by actions 

proposed on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. 

Although not as clear a trend, motorized access for dispersed recreation is also cumulatively limited as a 

result of the overall limits on motorized access off of designated routes and the restriction of the Travel 

Management Rule to motorized access solely for dispersed camping within a limited area adjacent to 

open designated roads. The cumulative effect on motorized access on open roads and trails is less clear 

than that effect on motorized access off of designated routes. 

Since 2000, there has nationally been, and continues to be an increasing emphasis on completing analyses 

to identify a “minimum transportation system” that is ecologically, socially, and economically sustainable. 

Given the high road densities and increasingly reduced road maintenance budgets on the Deschutes and 

Ochoco National Forests, trends for road closures and decommissioning are also likely to continue. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would contribute to the cumulative effects of reducing areas available to motorized 

access for dispersed camping by limiting motorized access for dispersed camping to areas adjacent to 

existing designated open roads, and by establishing Special Provisions for motorized access for dispersed 

camping that further restrict motorized access to the area adjacent to open designated roads. Alternative 3 

would have a greater potential for adverse cumulative effects to motorized access for dispersed camping 

than Alternative 2 by establishing Special Provisions for motorized access for dispersed camping 

everywhere that motorized access for dispersed camping would be allowed.

The Three Trails and Lava Rock Motorized Trails Projects, as currently proposed, and the Ochoco 

Summit Motorized Trail Project as currently being developed, all have the potential to increase the 

amount of designated motorized routes, staging areas (which often include areas for motorized access for 

dispersed camping), areas designated as open to motorized access off of designated routes (cross-country 

travel), and miles of road that would be open to motorized mixed use. Cumulatively, this would reduce to 

some degree the potential adverse effects of the actions proposed in this EIS on motorized recreational 

trail opportunities on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests. The proposed trail systems would 

provide a mix of new motorized trail opportunities. However, the exact amount or location of these 

proposed trails is either unknown or unpredictable at this stage of the analysis. These actions also have the 

potential to change the location and amount of open roads within the project areas that are available for 

motorized access for dispersed camping, either to increase or decrease the cumulative amount that could 

be anticipated under Alternatives 2 and 3.

It is reasonable to say that OHV opportunities are being reduced cumulatively by travel management 

decisions on National Forest and other public and private lands throughout the Pacific Northwest. It is 

known that these reductions in opportunities would displace some users from currently accessed areas, 

roads, and trails. What is not known is whether the overall amount of OHV use, either locally, regionally, 

or nationally would be reduced as a result of the reduced opportunities or if current use would just be 

concentrated into the smaller areas where OHV opportunities continue or are developed in the future. It is 

also uncertain how fuel prices could affect this use into the future. If the overall use is reduced, the 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

374 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

magnitude of the reduction is not known nor is it known where these reductions might occur. Without this 

knowledge, it is not possible to make reliable predictions about the social and economic cumulative 

effects based on reduced use. 

Areas that are more conducive to motorized access because of vegetation management activities or 

wildfire conditions could cumulatively result in an increase of the areas that may actually be available to 

motorized access for dispersed camping in Alternative 2. When considering past conditions, the 

cumulative effect of these actions when combined with the proposed actions in Alternative 2 could result 

in as much as 27,005 acres on the Deschutes and 7,705 acres on the Ochoco National Forest where 

conditions within 300 feet of open designated routes could be more conducive to motorized access than if 

these other activities had not taken place. There would be no potential for cumulative effects from these 

actions or conditions in Alternative 3, because motorized access for dispersed camping would be limited 

to presently existing or future designated or defined sites.

Other Required Disclosures 

Short-term Uses and Long-term Productivity 

NEPA requires consideration of “the relationship between short-term uses of man’s environment and the 

maintenance and enhancement of long-term productivity” (40 CFR 1502.16). As declared by the 

Congress, this includes using all practicable means and measures, including financial and technical 

assistance, in a manner calculated to foster and promote the general welfare, to create and maintain 

conditions under which man and nature can exist in productive harmony, and fulfill the social, economic, 

and other requirements of present and future generations of Americans (NEPA Section 101).

This chapter and the specialist reports prepared for this project provide the required disclosure of effects 

from anticipated use associated with the motorized access allowed under the current condition 

(Alternative 1) and as modified by Alternatives 2 and 3.

As detailed in this chapter, Alternative 1 would allow the most motorized access and thus the highest level 

of short-term uses of natural and depletable Forest resources of the three alternatives considered in detail. 

It would also result in the greatest potential impact to long-term productivity. The action alternatives 

provide varying amounts of motorized opportunities, and they have varying impacts to the short-term uses 

of the Forest. All action alternatives reduce the existing and potential impacts to long-term productive 

when compared to the existing condition.

Unavoidable Adverse Effects 

Beneficial and adverse effects on the human environment that might result from implementation of the 

alternatives considered in detail are analyzed earlier in this chapter. The National Environmental Policy 

Act requires disclosure of “...any adverse environmental effects which cannot be avoided should the 

proposal be implemented...” (40 CFR 1502.16). 

The proposed actions would prohibit motorized access for dispersed camping, modify the conditions 

under which motorized access for dispersed camping would be allowed, and change some national forest 

system roads to highway legal vehicles only. These actions would be, for the most part, beneficial to 

physical and biological resources. Actions associated with past decisions – including the establishment of 

existing designated roads and trails – are not included in this discussion because they are not a part of this 

proposed action. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 375

There would be unavoidable adverse social effects to some motorized users when compared to the current 

management direction. This is a social effect rather than an effect on the natural resources of the 

environment. 

The designation of rock pits as areas that would be open to motorized access off designated routes (cross 

country travel) in Alternatives 2 and 3 would represent a continued high-level of risk for the spread of 

invasive plants. This is an unavoidable adverse effect because of the widespread presence of invasive 

species throughout the surrounding urban areas. However, Alternatives 2 and 3 would significantly reduce 

the risk of invasive plant spread currently present in Alternative 1 across the two Forests by eliminating 

cross-country travel from most interior areas and rock pits. Changing the conditions of motorized access 

for dispersed camping would also significantly reduce, but not eliminate the potential for spread of 

invasive plants. Invasive plants sources come from outside of the National Forest, and therefore, cannot 

be completely mitigated with any action confined to Forest Service authority.

Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Resources 

Irreversible commitments of resources are those that cannot be regained, such as the extinction of a 

species or the removal of mined ore. Irretrievable commitments are those that are lost for a period of time 

such as the temporary loss of timber productivity in forested areas that are kept clear for use as power line 

rights-of-way or road. There are no new irreversible or irretrievable commitments of resources as a result 

of the actions proposed in this Environmental Impact Statement.

The proposed actions would not make any new commitment of resources to designated motorized routes 

and areas. All routes analyzed in this EIS currently exist on the ground and have been designated by past 

administrative actions. The proposed actions would designate some mineral material sources as open to 

motorized access off designated routes (cross-country travel), but these areas have already been 

committed to extractive use by past actions. These areas are primarily used for mineral material sources, 

and are secondarily being made available for motorized use with this decision. 

Incomplete and Unavailable Information

The Council on Environmental Quality’s implementing regulations for the National Environmental Policy 

Act requires, “When an agency is evaluating reasonably foreseeable significant adverse effects on the 

human environment in an environmental impact statement and there is incomplete or unavailable 

information, the agency shall always make clear that such information is lacking” (40 CFR 1502.22).

The primary potentially reasonably foreseeable significant adverse effects associated with the proposed 

actions identified in this EIS are related to the effect of changing how people can access the two National 

Forests with a motor vehicle, and how that might affect people’s activities or uses. As noted in the social 

and economic analysis in this chapter, how or even if people’s motorized uses will change as a result of 

these proposed actions either singly or when combined with other National Forest’s implementation of the 

Travel Management Rule is incomplete or unavailable information. There is incomplete information 

about the exact location of dispersed campsites that use motorized access and/or routes and areas used by 

OHVs. It is not feasible to be able to collect this information at a scale or in a manner that could help to 

better inform the decision-maker than what has already been collected and presented here. The 

information that is available is sufficient to understand the relationship of the effects of the proposed 

actions to continuing the existing condition. In addition, the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest and 

the adjacent lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management provide some of the most premier offroad vehicle designated trail systems in the state. There are many other opportunities within a day’s drive 

of Central Oregon. Therefore, even though information is lacking to be able to accurately predict how all 

motorized users may be affected by these proposals, the motorized access opportunities, uses and trends 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

376 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

that have been presented and summarized in this EIS provide sufficient information about both motorized 

and non-motorized future uses to make a reasonable choice between the alternatives. 

Energy Requirements of Alternatives

Managing for motor vehicle uses on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and promoting recreation 

use in general, under all the alternatives would result in the consumption of energy. For environmental 

impact statements, NEPA requires a discussion of the energy requirements and conservation potential of 

proposed alternatives and mitigation measures [40 CFR 1502.18 (e)]. The following addresses these 

topics.

The area of analysis for this issue, the affected environment, is at least regional in scope and cannot be 

defined solely for an individual National Forest. There are numbers of vehicles that drive on state and 

local highways that pass through the two Forests as they travel to other destinations, commute, or 

vacation in the region. There are numbers of vehicles that drive to Deschutes or Ochoco National Forest 

access sites or drive on Forest roads to access recreation opportunities, and there are motor vehicles 

(OHVs, motorcycles, RVs, SUVs, etc.) that use the Forest roads, trails, and areas.

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the other national forests and public lands in the area 

attract many visitors every year and the amount of energy use associated with this travel has increased. 

Likewise, the numbers of highway vehicles and recreational motor vehicles that use the two Forests have 

been increasing, although there is no quantifiable estimate of the numbers of these vehicles. The 

categories of energy-consuming activities directly or indirectly connected with recreational use of the 

Forests include: motor vehicle traffic that passes through the Forests on state and local highways, motor 

vehicle traffic to access Forest sites or drive on Forest roads, and recreational motor vehicles that use the 

Forests.

The first category of use cannot be considered as being affected by the proposed actions considered in the 

Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests Travel Management EIS, even though the users could be 

enjoying the scenery as they are traveling through the Forests and they would be counted as visitors to the 

National Forest. None of the actions proposed in this EIS would affect this category of travel. The second 

and third categories of use would be affected to some degree by the alternatives considered in this EIS 

because the proposed actions would include reducing the miles of roads available to non-highway-legal

vehicles, would propose to prohibit motorized access off designated routes to over 98 percent of the area 

of the two Forests that currently do not prohibit such access, and by changing the conditions of motorized 

access for dispersed camping along existing designated open routes. Changing the mileage available to 

non-highway-legal vehicles is unlikely to affect the energy consumption within the area and it is uncertain 

to what degree that motorized use off designated routes would be altered to use designated routes or 

whether that use would be displaced to other areas. Therefore, the effects on energy consumption 

resulting from these possible changes in use patterns cannot be reasonably predicted. However, recreation 

use is predicted to increase regardless of the alternative selected. Currently, there are plans being 

proposed to increase non-motorized or public transit options between the primary urban centers and the 

Forests. 

Prime Farmlands, Range Land, and Forest Land

Actions proposed under any of the alternatives would have no impact on farmland, rangeland, or forest 

land inside or outside the National Forest.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 377

Effects on Laws, Regulations, Plans, Policies, and Procedures 

The National Environmental Policy Act at 40 CFR 1502.25(a) directs “to the fullest extent possible, 

agencies shall prepare draft environmental impact statements concurrently with and integrated with 

...other environmental review laws and executive orders.” This section includes a brief summary of those 

laws, policies, and executive orders that are relevant to the proposed actions considered in this EIS. 

Travel Management: Designated Routes and Areas for Motor Vehicle Use; CFR 212, 

251, 261, and 295

Alternative 1 would not be consistent with the Travel Management Rule. Alternatives 2 and 3 would both 

meet the intent of the Travel Management Rule.

National Forest Management Act

The National Forest Management Act (NFMA) directs all action taken on national forests to be consistent 

with the Forest Land and Resource Management Plans prepared in accordance with the regulations of the 

NFMA. A brief description of relevant findings related to Forest Plan consistency for the actions proposed 

in this FEIS follows.

Forest Plan Consistency Deschutes & Ochoco National Forests

Travel Management Plans

Currently, the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest Plans have a variety of standards and guidelines that 

restrict some or all motorized access within certain management areas (MAs). This guidance has been 

translated into travel plan maps that have been published for summer and winter use in the past. For the 

Deschutes, the Forest Plan specifically requires the Forest to “prepare and periodically update a Forest 

Travel Plan which will identify areas, roads, and trails which are open or closed” (Deschutes National 

Forest Land and Resource Management Plan (LRMP) page 4-33, TR-8). 

The Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) published after the release of the Record of Decision for this EIS 

in Alternatives 2 and 3 would function as the new travel map for the Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forests, and Crooked River National Grassland, for non-winter use. The previously published travel plan 

maps would continue to provide motorized access information for winter use. Although the Ochoco 

National Forest Plan (LRMP) has no similar specific Forest Plan requirement, publication of the Motor 

Vehicle Use Map meets the requirement of a Forest Travel Plan and will become part of the management 

direction of the Forest Plans replacing the current plans (maps).

Motorized Travel off Designated Routes (Cross-Country Travel)

Cross-country travel on the Deschutes National Forest has largely been regulated by Forest Plan standards 

and guidelines that prohibit or restrict motorized access in certain areas, or other federal actions that have 

applied specific motorized access restrictions in certain areas. There are no area-specific standards and 

guidelines that designate areas as “open” to cross-country travel. In general, this use has been allowed 

unless specifically prohibited or otherwise regulated. Therefore, implementation of any of the alternatives 

would be consistent with the Deschutes National Forest Plan because there would be no new standards 

and guidelines required by the Travel Management Rule in order to prohibit motorized access off 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

378 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

designated routes, and no amendments to existing standards and guidelines required to be consistent with 

existing prohibitions. 

The Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland Plans have a variety of standards and 

guidelines that relate to motorized vehicle use on the Forest and Grassland. These are detailed in 

Appendix C-13, and would be amended in Alternatives 2 and 3: These standards and guidelines would be 

amended as described in Appendix C-13 for the Ochoco National Forest Land and Resource Management 

Plan, parts 1 and 2, except on the Emigrant Creek Ranger District71. 

Alternative 1 would be consistent with current Forest Plan management direction.

Motorized access for dispersed camping 

Similar to cross-country travel, there is little specific direction that prohibits or otherwise specifically 

designates regulation of motorized access for dispersed camping. For the Crooked River National 

Grassland, the Ochoco Forest Plan would be amended to allow motorized access for dispersed camping 

under both the General and Special Provisions described in Alternatives 2 and 3. 

Both Alternatives 2 and 3 would include amendments to the Ochoco and Crooked River Land and 

Resource Management Plan72 (Parts 1 and 2 – Part 1 is the Land and Resource Management Plan for the 

Ochoco National Forest, and Part 2 is for the Grassland). These amendments fall into three kinds of 

changes to the Forest Plan. Amendments labeled 1a include minor changes to season of use dates on 

certain Forest Roads. Amendments labeled 1b are amendments that would eliminate those Forest Plan 

standards and guidelines that are redundant with the regulations established by the Travel Management 

Rule. These amendments, while numerous, are not particularly meaningful. These amendments eliminate 

certain standards and guidelines related to motorized travel because there is similar or identical guidance 

in the travel management rule and EIS. Amendments labeled 1c are changes to Forest Plan Standards and 

guidelines that reverse or otherwise change motorized use conditions established in the Forest Plan. 

Based on Forest Service Manual 1922.5, if a proposal is not consistent with the Forest Plan, the deciding 

officer(s) must make a determination of whether the change is considered “non-significant” or 

“significant” within the context of the National Forest Management Act. Forest Service Handbook 

1909.12.5.32 requires consideration of four primary factors in that analysis. These factors are the timing

of the change within the context of the overall anticipated time frame of the Forest Plan; the location and 

size (or scope) of the proposed change ; and the degree to which future management prescriptions and 

goals, objectives, anticipated outcomes are affected within the remaining expected duration of the 

Forest Plan. 

The following analysis provides the basis for the determination of whether the proposed amendments are 

non-significant or significant in the context of the National Forest Management Act. Each of the 

categories of amendments are briefly described, followed by an analysis of the four factors identified 

above. Appendix C-13 of the FEIS includes a detailed description of the amendments. The Record of 

Decision includes the final line officers determination of the significance of the Forest Plan amendments

for the selected alternative 

 

71 The Emigrant Creek Ranger District, formerly the Snow Mountain District of the Ochoco National Forest was renamed and

combined with the Burns Ranger District, and is administered by the Malheur National Forest.

72 Excluding the Emigrant Ranger District administered by the Malheur National Forest.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 379

Amendment 1a 

The Ochoco Forest Plan would be amended under Alternatives 2 and 3 to adjust some time periods for 

motorized seasons of use. In order to match these dates up across the two forests, some minor changes are 

proposed and are included in Appendix C-13 (Ochoco Forest Plan Amendments). The results of these 

changes would be that roads would be open in the Winter Range allocations on the Grassland for about 3 

days longer in September, and would be open one day longer on the Lookout Mountain District. The 

amendments also include a general amendment for all standards and guidelines that change how the 

season of use is described, without making any changes in the dates or locations for when and where 

motorized access is allowed. The Forest Plan currently describes the seasonal use periods according to the 

dates that use is restricted. The Motor Vehicle Use Map, which is the enforcement tool for the provisions 

of the Travel Management Rule, displays seasons of use on designated routes are according to the period 

they are open, rather than the period during which they are closed to public use. In addition to modifying 

the beginning or ending period in some specific areas to make them better match, the amendment will 

change all seasonal use periods to and open season of use rather than a restricted season of use. This 

change will have no effect on any of the four criteria. 

Amendment 1b 

Amendment 1b would change about 30 Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines. The change would 

eliminate entirely some standards and guidelines or modify or eliminate language within the standard and 

guideline that is redundant to the Travel Management Rule (see Appendix C-13 Ochoco Forest Plan 

Amendments). 

Amendment 1c 

Amendement 1c involves the greatest proposed change to motorized uses. Currently, motorized crosscountry travel is mostly allowed in the General Forest Management Area on the Ochoco, with some 

specific language that “encourages” use on designated and/or existing routes, and restricts motorized use 

to designated and/or existing routes in riparian areas, scablands, and sensitive soils or steeper slopes. On 

the Grassland, On the Grassland, all of the standard and guidelines limit motorized access to designated 

routes and have no provisions for motorized access for dispersed camping. The proposed amendment 

would eliminate the conflicting standard and guidelines and replace them with the conditions for 

motorized access – including motorized access for dispersed camping – that are included in Alternatives 2 

and 3.

Assessment of the Amendments

Timing 

The timing of the amendments is late within the expected framework of the Forest Plan. The Forest Plan 

has been in effect since 1989. These amendments would occur during the third decade of the plan period. 

Forest Plans were expected to remain in place for approximately 10 years, with a maximum of 15 years, 

before they would be revised. Revision of the Ochoco Forest Plan is expected to commence in the next 

few years.

Location and Size 

The amendments generally apply to one or more specific management areas, to road systems that are 

within certain management areas, or to the Forest and Grassland as a whole. However, despite the 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

380 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

geographic extent of the areas to which the proposed amendments apply, proposed amendments 1a and b 

do not make a meaningful change to current direction. 

Amendment 1c would modify the conditions of motorized use by prohibiting cross-country travel and 

limiting motorized access to designated routes and areas throughout the General Forest Management Area 

of the Ochoco. Amendment 1c would also specifically allow for motorized access for dispersed camping 

on the Grassland within 300 feet of designated roads subject to the General and Special Provisions 

described in Alternatives 2 and 3. On the Ochocho National Forest, this amendment would alter the 

conditions for motorized access on about 59 percent of the Forest; while on the Grassland, the amendment 

would alter the conditions for motorized access on about 20 - 22 percent of the Grassland, in Alternatives 

3 and 2, respectively. 

Management Area Prescriptions, Goals, Objectives, and Outputs 

Amendments 1a and 1b make no substantive changes to the intended management prescriptions, goals, 

objectives, or outputs of the Forest Plan. As noted before, the modifications to the seasons of use on some 

roads will be changed by between 1 and 3 days. Removing language within the Standards and Guidelines 

that is redundant to the Travel Management Rule makes no material change to the prescriptions, goals, 

objectives, or other anticipated outputs of the Plan.

Amendment 1c would also not represent a material change in the management prescriptions, or goals, 

objectives or other anticipated outputs of the Plan. This is because:

• The proposed amendment would affect a single use within the General Forest allocation, and the 

effect to that use would only be outside of the areas identified by the Forest Plan where the limits on 

motorized access are identical to the proposed amendment. The current direction which encourages 

staying on designated roads and areas in most of the General Forest management area and requires it 

in sensitive areas is clearly intended to accomplish much of the same objectives as the Travel 

Management Rule. However, currently the areas that limit motorized access to designated routes and 

areas (riparian areas, scablands, sensitive or steeper slopes) are not mapped, so it is difficult to 

identify where the motorized vehicle use prescription is required or where it is “encouraged.” In 

addition, cross-country travel is currently being limited in some of the allocation because of resource 

damage.

• On the Grassland, common interpretation of the Forest Plan Standard and Guideline that restricts 

motorized access to designated routes and areas has been applied to cross-country travel, but not to 

motorized access for dispersed camping. Currently motorized access for dispersed camping is 

generally within 300 feet of an open designated road, and this use would continue as it has in the past 

in both alternatives. 

The overall goals and objectives of the Forest Plan and anticipated outputs of the Forest Plans have been 

to provide for motorized access in a manner consistent with the intent of Executive Order 11644 and 

amended by Executive Order 11989 regarding the use of off-road vehicles on public lands. The Travel 

Management Rule establishes a nation-wide regulation for the Forest Service to meet these goals. 

Amending the Forest Plans to eliminate inconsistencies with this regulation do not therefore constitute a 

meaningful change to the Forest Plan management prescriptions, goals, objectives, or anticipated outputs 

of goods and services of the Forest Plan. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 381

Aquatic Conservation Strategy and Riparian Habitat Management Objectives

Alternatives 2 and 3 would include actions that would have a neutral or beneficial effect on the objectives 

of the Aquatic Conservation Strategy and Riparian Habitat Management Objectives (see also fisheries 

section). These requirements were added to the Deschutes and Ochoco Forest Plans respectively by past 

amendments. 

Endangered Species Act

Effects to threatened and endangered species are evaluated in the fisheries, native plants, and wildlife

sections of chapter 3 of this EIS. The Endangered Species Act of 1973 requires that actions of federal 

agencies do not jeopardize or adversely modify critical habitat of federally-listed species. A biological 

evaluation has been completed for threatened, endangered and sensitive fishery, plant, and terrestrial 

species. Consultation with the USFW was completed in accordance with Section 7 of the Endangered 

Species Act (see also fisheries and wildlife sections).

Clean Water Act

The objective of the Clean Water Act is to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological 

integrity of all waters to protect the beneficial uses as documented according to Oregon Department of 

Environmental Quality (ODEQ) criteria. A beneficial use is a resource or activity that would be directly 

affected by a change in water quality or quantity and are defined on a basin scale in the Oregon 

Administrative Rules for water quality. The beneficial uses for this project were derived from the four 

basins encompassed by the two Forests and Grassland.

The beneficial uses on the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests include fish and aquatic life, fishing, 

wildlife and hunting, livestock watering, water contact recreation, boating, irrigation, public water supply, 

private domestic water supply, hydro power, and aesthetic quality.

Under Section 319 of the 1987 Clean Water Act Amendments, states are required to determine those 

waters that will not meet the goals of the Clean Water Act, determine those non-point source activities 

that are contributing pollution, and develop a process on how to reduce such pollution to the “maximum 

extent practicable.” Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act requires that a list be developed of all impaired 

or threatened waters within each state. The ODEQ is responsible for compiling the 303(d) list, assessing 

data, and submitting the 303(d) list to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for federal approval.

There are 96 303(d) listed streams and water bodies in the travel management project area. Only water 

temperature, sediment, and turbidity would reasonably be expected to be potentially effected by proposed 

actions in this project. There are 19 streams listed for water temperature on the Deschutes National Forest 

and 73 on the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland. The Deschutes River 

between Wickiup Reservoir and Bend on the Deschutes National Forest is listed for sediment and 

turbidity. Eight streams on the Ochoco National Forest are listed for sediment in the Trout Creek Sub 

Basin.

Both action alternatives would trend towards compliance with the Clean Water Act.
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

382 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

The National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA, 36 CFR § 800), as amended and the 

2004 Programmatic Agreement (PA) among the United States Department of 

Agriculture Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region (Region 6), the Advisory Council on 

Historic Preservation, and the Oregon State Historical Preservation Officer (SHPO) 

Regarding Cultural Resource Management in the State of Oregon by the USDA Forest 

Service. 

A cultural resource assessment and finding of effect has been completed in accordance with the terms of 

the 2004 PA. The activities in Alternatives 2 and 3 would have no effect or no adverse effect to cultural 

resource sites, and the findings are compliant with the 36 CFR § 800 regulation. 

Executive Orders

11644 of February 8, 1972

Use of Off-road Vehicles on the Public Lands

As amended by Executive Order 11989 of May 24, 1977. 

Executive Order (EO) 11644, as amended, provides direction for federal agencies to establish policies and 

procedures to control and direct the use of OHVs on public lands to: 1) protect the resource of those 

lands; 2) promote the safety of all users of those lands; and 3) minimize conflicts among various users of 

those lands. In response, the Forest Service developed regulations at 36 CFR 216, 219, and 295. Under 

these regulations OHV use can be restricted or prohibited to minimize: 1) damage to soil, watershed, 

vegetation, or other resources of the public lands; 2) harm to wildlife or wildlife habitats; or 3) conflicts 

between the use of OHVs and other types of recreation. 

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and Crooked River National Grassland have restricted 

motorized travel to designated routes in some areas since the late 1970s. As described under the Forest 

Plan Consistency section, the two Forests have also issued travel maps that define travel opportunities and 

restrictions on Forest roads and trails.

Each of the action alternatives analyzed in this EIS makes substantial improvements in reducing and 

minimizing resource impacts and use conflicts as required by EO 11644.

11988 & 11990 of May 24, 1977

Protection of Floodplains and Wetlands

Executive Order 11988 requires the Forest Service to provide leadership and to take action to 1) minimize 

adverse impacts associated with occupancy and modification of floodplains and reduce risks of flood loss, 

2) minimize impacts of floods on human safety, health, and welfare, and 3) restore and preserve the 

natural and beneficial values served by floodplains. Executive Order 11990 requires the Forest Service to 

take action to minimize destruction, loss, or degradation of wetlands and to preserve and enhance the 

natural and beneficial values of wetlands. 

Hydrology: The Forest Service is proposing to reduce the amount of motorized access within the riparian

influence zone in every alternative except Alternative 1, where motorized access would be allowed in 

areas currently open to motorized access off designated routes and allowed without changed conditions 

for motorized access for dispersed camping. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 383

Aquatic Biota: Alternative 1 could result in an increase in impacts from motorized access within 

floodplain areas where floodplain areas are currently open to motorized access off designated routes and 

where motorized access for dispersed camping is not prohibited. Alternatives 2 and 3 would result in a 

decrease of impacts within floodplain areas, through the elimination of motorized access off designated 

routes and by modifying the conditions under which motorized access for dispersed camping would be 

allowed. Thus, all alternatives ultimately comply with the intent of Executive Order 11988. 

All action alternatives would result in a decrease of impacts within floodplains, wetland and riparian 

areas, by prohibiting motorized access off designated routes and changing the conditions under which 

motorized access for dispersed camping is allowed. Thus, all alternatives ultimately comply with the 

intent of Executive Order 11990. 

13186 of January 10, 2001, and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act

Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds

Executive Order 13186, signed January 10, 2001, directs federal agencies to protect migratory birds by 

integrating bird conservation principles, measures, and practices into agency activities and by avoiding or 

minimizing, to the extent practical, adverse impacts on migratory birds’ resources when conducting 

agency actions. This order directs agencies to further comply with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, the Bald 

and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and other pertinent statutes. This analysis is compliant with the 

National Memorandum of Understanding between the USDA Forest Service and the US FWS to promote 

the conservation of migratory birds (USDA Forest Service and US FWS 2008). 

13443 of August 16, 2007

Facilitation of Hunting Heritage and Wildlife Conservation

This order directs federal agencies that have programs and activities that have a measurable effect on 

public land management, outdoor recreation, and wildlife management to facilitate the expansion and 

enhancement of hunting opportunities and the management of game species and their habitat. 

This EIS and the associated specialist reports have considered the management of wildlife habitats trends

and effects on hunting opportunities, and economic and recreational values of hunting. Resource 

specialists have considered the programs and plans of other state and federal wildlife agencies, have 

worked collaboratively with them in their professional roles, and have coordinated with them in 

development of this travel management plan. These other agencies have been kept abreast of these 

proposed actions. The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests currently have in place various cooperative 

seasonal motorized use closures, including winter range motorized closure areas and the so-called “Green 

Dot” hunting season road closures. These concepts have been adopted year-round in the proposed actions. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 incorporate seasonal use periods for routes established by these cooperative 

agreements and prohibit motorized access off designated routes except where motorized access for 

dispersed camping is allowed within 300 feet of open designated routes. According to comments received 

during scoping on this and other projects, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife supports prohibiting 

motorized access off designated routes. 

12898 of February 11, 1994

Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low-income Populations

Executive Order 12898 directs the agency to identify and address, “as appropriate, disproportionately 

high and adverse human health or environmental effects of its programs, policies, and activities on 

minority populations and low-income populations....” The intent of the order is to assure the fair treatment 
Chapter 3: Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

384 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

and meaningful involvement and consideration of all people. Fair treatment means that no group of 

people, including racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic group should bear a disproportionate share of the 

negative environmental consequences resulting from the execution of federal actions. Outreach and public 

involvement for this project has been extensive and at various scales within communities of interest. This 

included meeting individually with tribal staff and members of the Cultural and Heritage Committee for 

the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs, as well as including the tribal newspaper and radio station 

in news releases prior to all of our public meetings, and with periodic updates as the planning process 

progressed. A similar outreach effort was made with local Hispanic radio and news media outlets. Flyers 

and posters were distributed in all local communities prior to public meetings to reach all members of the 

local communities. As a result of these outreach and scoping (public involvement) processes, there were 

no potentially disproportionately high and adverse human-health, environmental, or social effects to 

minority or low-income populations identified. Based on the social and economic analysis presented in 

chapter 3, there is no known potential for disparate or disproportionate effects on minority or low-income 

populations. 

USDA Civil Rights Policy 

The Civil Rights Policy for the USDA, Departmental Regulation 4300-4 dated May 30, 2003, states that 

the following are among the civil rights strategic goals; 1) managers, supervisors, and other employees 

are held accountable for ensuring that USDA customers are treated fairly and equitably, with dignity and 

respect; and 2) equal access is assured and equal treatment is provided in the delivery of USDA programs 

and services for all customers. This is the standard for service to all customers regardless of race, sex, 

national origin, age, or disabilities. 

Disparate impact, a theory of discrimination, has been applied to the travel management planning process 

in order to reveal any such negative effects that may unfairly and inequitably impact beneficiaries 

regarding program development, administration, and delivery73. The objectives of this review and 

analysis are to prevent disparate treatment and minimize discrimination against minorities, women, and 

persons with disabilities and to ensure compliance with all civil rights statutes, federal regulations, and 

USDA policies and procedures. 

Persons with Disabilities

Some comments received during the travel management planning process expressed concern that changes 

to motorized access would prevent future access to National Forest system lands for those with 

disabilities. In response to these comments, an analysis of the project alternatives was conducted in the 

Social and Economic section of this Chapter to evaluate the effect to all groups. The motorized use 

restrictions do apply equally to all groups of users. Therefore, the travel actions proposed as a part of this 

EIS are not discriminatory towards persons with disabilities. 

Under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, no person with a disability can be denied 

participation in a Federal program that is available to all other people solely because of his or her 

disability. There is no legal requirement to allow people with disabilities use of motor vehicles on roads, 

trails, or other areas that are closed to motor vehicles. Restrictions on motor vehicle use that are applied 

consistently to everyone are not discriminatory. A more detailed description of the study area 

demographics is included in the Social and Economic section of chapter 3. 

 

73 For more information on disparate impact theory, see The Evolution of Disparate Impact Theory of Discrimination, Harvard 

Journal of Legislation, vol. 44 2007 (http://www.law.harvard.edu/students/orgs/jol/vol44_2/gordon.pdf)
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 385

Civil Rights Monitoring and Evaluation

It is the responsibility of the Deputy Chiefs for National Forest Systems to ensure that decision-makers 

are aware of the Civil Rights Impacts Analysis and that the alternatives and mitigations are considered. 

Any future travel management projects will be implemented only after an appropriate level of NEPA is 

completed and the decision documented. This project-level NEPA will be completed with adequate public 

involvement that will consider access and concerns from minorities, women, persons with disabilities, 

and low income populations. The two Forests would continue to consult early and often with Oregon 

Tribal Governments regarding Special Areas of Historic Tribal Significance for implementation of travel 

management plans and to design travel management planning and public involvement opportunities that 

consider access concerns from minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and low income populations. 

Determination that a CRIA is not needed

On May 16, 2008, the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests embarked on a proposed action to improve 

management of motorized vehicle use on National Forest System lands within the Deschutes and Ochoco 

National Forests in accordance with regulations at 36 CFR Parts 121, 251, 261, and 295, and as described 

in Travel Management; Designated Routes and Areas for Motor Vehicle Use; Final Rule (2005).

The Notice of Intent (NOI) initiating the scoping process was published in the Federal Register on May 

16, 2008. A Notice of Availability of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement for review was published 

in the Federal Register on October 9, 2009. 

A summary of the comments received during the scoping process, the issues raised, and how they were 

addressed related to this EIS are included in Chapter 1. Appendix D, Response to Comments, includes a 

detailed response to all of the comments received on the DEIS. A comprehensive description of the 

community collaboration used to help develop the proposed action is also available on our website 

(http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/centraloregon/travel-mgmt/index.shtml). People have self-selected to participate 

in the public meetings and to provide written comments and were not required to provide any information 

concerning individual demographic information. 

Groups and classes of persons have been reviewed within the social analysis section of the EIS. No 

groups or classes or persons were found to be disproportionately negatively affected by this travel 

management decision. This travel management decision applies equally to all members of the public, and 

therefore is not discriminatory to any person or group.

Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 387

Chapter 4. Consultation and Coordination

Preparers and Contributors 

The project development phase was a collaborative effort involving many individuals representing 

Federal, State, and local agencies. The following sections will list those involved in the consultation and 

coordination process of the project. The Interdisciplinary Team member section will name all specialists 

involved in the preparation process of this FEIS and describe the education and experience of each 

member. Also listed below are the Provincial Advisory Committee and Working Group members who 

were first chartered for developing the strategy for implementing the rule. 

Interdisciplinary Team Members

Mollie Chaudet, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Project Manager; Social and Economic Impact Analysis 

Education: A.S., Forest Technology, Central Oregon Community College

Experience: 30 years of experience with the Forest Service and BLM. Forest Litigation Coordinator 2005-

present; Associate Area Manager; Supervisory Interdisciplinary Planner; 2000-2005; Environmental 

Coordinator and National Environmental Analysis Instructor, 1990-2000; Project Planner, 1982-1989. 

Timber Sale Preparation 1978-1981 

Peggy Fisher, PE; USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor's Office 

Position/Contribution: Transportation Program Manager/Project Manager

Education: M.S., Civil Engineering, Oregon State University 

Experience: 21 years of experience with the Forest Service. Transportation Program Manager, 

Deschutes/Ochoco National Forests 2001-present; Project Team Leader, Deschutes National Forest 2000-

2001; Geotechnical Engineer, Ochoco National Forest 1992-2000; and Geotechnical Engineer, Willamette 

National Forest 1989-1992 

Laurel Skelton, USDA Forest Service, Ochoco National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Recreation Planner

Education: B.S., Forestry and Recreation Planning, Oregon State University

Experience: 6 years with the Ochoco & Deschutes National Forest working on special projects, including 

Travel Management; 7 years with the Ochoco NF as Recreation Program Manager; 7 years with the 

Crooked River National Grassland as District Recreation and Special Uses Program Manager; 3 years on 

the Mt. Hood National Forest, and 1 year on the Winema National Forest as program lead for developed, 

dispersed, wilderness and trails programs.

Mose Harris IV, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office, Planner 

Position/Contribution: Writer-editor

Education: B.S., Environmental Science, Tuskegee University, 2005
Chapter 4: Consultation and Coordination

388 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Experience: 4 years permanently with the US Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest. Seasonal work 

since 2000 including positions in Silviculture, Fire/Fuels, and Planning.

Bruce Wright, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: GIS Analyst

Education: B.S., Electrical Engineering

Experience: Forest Service Geographic Information Systems 1991-present, Wildland fire suppression 

1986-1991, Outside Plant Engineer United Telephone 1978-1986, Smokejumper Redmond Air Center 

1971-1978, Hotshot Redmond Air Center 1970.

Caroline Gordon, USDA Forest Service, Ochoco National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Geologist

Education: B.A., Geology, Central Washington University, 1977, Ellensburg, WA

Experience: 18 years with the Forest Service as Forest Geologist, Ochoco National Forest/Crooked River 

National Grassland; 5 years as geologist, Siuslaw National Forest; and 3 years as a geologist, Coconino 

National Forest in Arizona.

Peter Sussmann, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Soil Scientist

Education: B.S., Agronomy/Soils University of Illinois, 1986 

Experience: USDA Forest Service Soil Scientist, Deschutes National Forest, 1992-1998. Field Soil 

Scientist, Interagency Riparian Classification, 2000-2002. Soil Scientist, Deschutes National Forest, 

2002-2010. 

Christopher Yamasaki, USDA Forest Service, DRM, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor's Office

Position/Contribution: GIS/Data Services Specialist, Geospatial Datasets and Map Products

Education: B.S., Environmental Science, University of Oregon, Professional GIS Certificate, Certificate 

in GIS Application Programming, Central Oregon Community College.

Experience: 3 years with the Forest Service as a GIS/Data Services Specialist, Deschutes/Ochoco 

National Forests, and five years as a seasonal Fisheries Tech in Oregon, Southeast Alaska, and California.

Dorothy Thomas, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: GIS Analyst/GIS Analysis and support.

Education: A.A., Geographic Information Systems, Central Oregon CC, 1996. B.S. Environmental 

Sciences: Natural Resource Management, Oregon State University, 2000.

Experience: 15 years professional experience in GIS systems

James Seymour, USDA Forest Service, Ochoco National Forest, Supervisor’s Office
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 389

Position/Contribution: Hydrologist

Education: B.S., Watershed Science (concentration in hydrology), Colorado State University, 1980

Experience: 29 years experience with the Forest Service in hydrology, planning, and water quality 

monitoring 

Katie Grenier, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Botanist, Native Plant and Invasive Species

Education: M.S., Biology in Botany, Humboldt State University

Experience: 15 years with the Forest Service as Botany Program Manager, Deschutes/Ochoco National 

Forests; 5 years as Botany Program Manager, Siuslaw National Forest; and 9 years as a seasonal botanist 

in Wyoming, Idaho, Utah, and California

Lauren Miller, USDA Forest Service, COFMS (Central Oregon Fire Management Service- serves 

Deschutes NF , Ochoco NF, and Prineville BLM), Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Fire and Fuels Planning Support / Fire, Vegetation Management, and Air Quality

Education: B.S., Resource Ecology and Management, University of Michigan 2000; M.S., Forestry, 

University of Idaho 2006

Experience: Experience: 2 years with the Forest Service supporting Fire and Fuels Planning, COFMS; 2 

years with the Forest Service as Fire Ecologist, Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forests; 3 years with the 

Forest Service in Student Career Experience Program for Fire Ecology, Wenatchee-Okanogan NF and 

Adaptive Management Services Enterprise Team, Tahoe National Forest; 1 year with the State of Arizona, 

Ecological Restoration Institute as a Research Technician; and 1 year with the US Geological Survey as a 

biological science technician at the Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park and Las Vegas Field Stations

Dan Rife, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Fisheries Biologist

Education: B.S., Fisheries Biology, Humboldt State University, CA

Experience: 25 years of experience with the Forest Service. Forest Fisheries Program Manager - 

Deschutes and Ochoco NF, 2000-present; District Fisheries Biologist, Wenatchee NF, 1991-2000; 

Assistant District Fisheries Biologist, Wentachee NF, 1989-1991; Assistant District Fisheries Biologist, 

Mt. Hood NF, 1986-1989; Stream Surveyor, Mt. Hood National Forest, 1984-1985. 

Lauri Turner, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Wildlife Biologist

Education: B.S., Biology with a Wildlife Emphasis, Kearney State College, Kearney, NE 1989 

Experience: Forest Wildlife Biologist, Deschutes NF since 2005. District Wildlife Biologist, Deschutes 

NF 1998-2005. Wildlife Biologist, Willamette NF 1991-1998. Biological Technician, Willamette NF 

1990. Working as a professional Wildlife Biologist for 20 years, Willamette and Deschutes National 

Forests.
Chapter 4: Consultation and Coordination

390 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Paul Claeyssens, USDA Forest Service, WO Enterprise Program, Heritage Stewardship Group, 

Bend, OR 

Position/Contribution: Heritage Resource Specialist; Archaeological, Historic and Tribal Resources

Education: BA, Anthropology, University of California, San Diego; MS, Anthropology, University of 

Oregon

Experience: 1 year as a Forest Service WO Enterprise Program business unit lead for a unit offering 

historic preservation services, 19 years with the Forest Service as a heritage program manager on the 

Ochoco and Deschutes National Forests, 8 years as a district archaeologist on the Willamette National 

Forest, and 2 years as a research technician, teaching assistant and field archaeologist on university and 

private sector heritage projects.

Don Bignell, USDA Forest Service, WO Enterprise Program, Heritage Stewardship Group, Bend, 

OR

Position/Contribution: Heritage Resource Specialist; Archaeological and Historic Resources

Education: BA, California State University, San Diego; MA Candidate, California State University, 

Sonoma 

Experience: 1 year as a US Forest Service WO Enterprise Program archaeological lead for a unit offering 

cultural resources management services, 2 years as an archaeological technician for the Deschutes NF, 15 

years providing cultural resources management services working for private sector firms.

Breton Friel, USDA Forest Service, WO Enterprise Program, Heritage Stewardship Group, Bend, 

OR

Position/Contribution: Heritage Resource Specialist; Archaeological and Historic Resources

Education: BA (History), Utah Valley University, Orem; MA (Anthropology), Brigham Young University, 

Provo

Experience: 2 years as a US Forest Service WO Enterprise Program archaeological lead for a unit offering 

cultural resources management services, 1 year as an archaeological technician for the Deschutes NF, 1 

year as an archaeological technician for the Ashley NF, 1 year providing cultural resources management 

services working for private sector firms.

Patrick Nelson, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Cartographic Technician Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP)

Education: A.A.S., 2008 Geographic Information Systems Central Oregon Community College Bend, OR 

BS 2009, Geographic Information Science Northern Arizona University Flagstaff, AZ; Masters of 

Geographic Information Systems, Pennsylvania State University (in progress) 

Experience: 4 years professional GIS experience between the FS, BLM, and nonprofit environmental 

organizations

Rick Collins, P.E., USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 391

Position/Contribution: Forest Road Manager and Transportation Planner / Transportation Planning & 

Analysis

Education: M.S., Civil Engineering, Oregon State University. B.S. Forest Engineering, Oregon State 

University. 1988 A.A. Forestry Central Oregon Community College. 1983.

Experience: 23 years with the Forest Service in Transportation Planning and Road Management. 

Sarah Barnett, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: IT Specialist, Travel Routes/Data Management

Education: B.S., Interdisciplinary Studies Old Dominion University, VA 2003

Experience: Over 10 years of Information Technology experience and working with Data Management.

Steve Gibson, USDA Forest Service, Ochoco National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Range Management Specialist

Education: A.A., Biological Science, Central Oregon Community College; B.A., Rangeland Science, 

Oregon State University

Experience: 14 years ranch experience, 19 years Forest Service experience. Acting Forest Range Program 

Manager, 2009; National Grassland Natural Resource Team Leader, 2004 - present; Zone Supervisory 

Range Management Specialist, 1999 - 2004; Acting Forest Range Program Manager, 2000; Range 

Management Specialist/Resource Assistant, 1992 - 1999; Range Management Specialist/Minerals 

Technician, 1991 - 1992; Range Technician/Range Conservationist, 1990 - 1991. 

Mark Christiansen, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor's Office

Position/Contribution: Recreation Program Manager

Education: B.S., Forest Management, Northern Arizona University, 1975

Experience: 34 years Forest service experience. Timber Sale Administration, Recreation, Lands, &

Minerals, Tongass NF, 1976 – 1980; Timber Sale Preparation & Administration, Gallatin NF, 1980 – 

1983; Recreation Program Manager, Gallatin NF, 1984 – 1988; Recreation Staff, Toiyabe NF, 1989 – 

1991; Recreation Staff, Arapaho Roosevelt NF, 1992 – 1999; Forest Recreation Program Manager, 

Deschutes NF, 1999 – present. 

Vicki Ramming, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Program Manager Central Oregon OHV Operations (COHVOPS)

Experience: 30 years of experience with the Forest Service. COHVOPS Program Manager 2005-present; 

Special Use Permit Administrator 1995-2005; Recreation Manager 1991-1995; Timber Sale Administrator 

1988-1991; Timber Sale Appraiser 1980 - 1988; Dispatcher 1978-1980 

Paul C. Cuddy, USDA Forest Service, Ochoco National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Forest Environmental Coordinator/Planner
Chapter 4: Consultation and Coordination

392 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Education: B.S., Social Sciences, Providence College 1973; M.F., Forest Management, Utah State 

University, 1981

Experience: 30 years of Forest Service experience; Salmon, Wasatch-Cache, Bridger-Teton, Siskiyou, and 

Ochoco National Forests.

Gery Ferguson, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Assistant Forest Planner

Education: B.S., Wildlife, Michigan State University

Experience: 28 years of Forest Service experience; Colville, Umpqua, Ochoco and Deschutes National 

Forests

Ken Kittrell, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes National Forest, Supervisor’s Office

Position/Contribution: Forest Transportation Planner/Road Manager

Education: B.S., Fisheries Biology, University of Idaho

Experience: 32 years of Forest Service experience; Engineering Survey Technician, Nezperce NF, 1974 – 

1978; Project Engineer, Gifford Pinchot, Willamette, and Malheur NF, 1979 – 1994; District Watershed 

Specialist/Transportation Plannner, Malheur NF, Winema NF, 1994 – 2000; District Engineer, Deschutes 

NF, 2000- 2010; Forest Transportation Planner, Ochoco/Deschutes NF, Jan. 2010 - present .

Rob Tanner, USDA Forest Service, Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, Supervisor's Office

Position/Contribution: Hydrologist

Education: B.S., Environmental Studies and General Science, University of Oregon; M.S., Hydrology, 

Oregon State University. 2000.

Experience: 4 years hydrology work with Eugene BLM. 10 years as a hydrologist for the Deschutes and 

Ochoco NF with support to the Crooked River and Upper Deschutes Watershed Councils.

Federal, State, and Local Agencies

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests worked with a chartered federal advisory committee to 

develop a strategy for implementing the rule. Their recommendations were used to lay the framework for 

how the proposed action would be developed. The members of the Provincial Advisory Committee are 

listed in Table 154, and the members of the Travel Management Working Group are listed in Table 155. 

Table 154. Deschutes Provincial Advisory Committee (PAC)

Name Organization

John Allen Designated Official, Deschutes Forest Supervisor 

Glen Ardta Habitat Biologist, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

Chuck Burley Forest Products Industry - American Forest Resource Council, State Representative

Dennis Carlson “At Large”, Hood River County Forestry Dept.

Roy Eppersona Crook County Natural Resources Committee

Garth Fuller Environmental Advocacy, The Nature Conservancy, Eastern Oregon Director

Don Gentry Klamath Tribe

Nancy Gilberta US Fish and Wildlife Service

Peter Gutowskya Deschutes County – Senior Planner
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 393

Name Organization

Teresa Kubo Environmental Protection Agency

Bonnie Lamb Oregon Department of Environmental Quality

James Larsena “At Large” Homeowner

Tim Lilleboa Environmental Advocacy - Oregon Wild

Kreg Lindberga Recreation and Tourism – Oregon State University Associate Professor

Dave McClain “At Large”, Private Consultant

Chuck McGrath Grazing permittee

John Morgana Forest Products Industry – resource manager for Ochoco Lumber Co.

Dennis Oliphanta Recreation and Tourism - Sun Country Tours, Inc

Clay Penhollowa Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon – Natural Resources 

Department

George Ponte Oregon Department of Forestry

Boyd Wickmana Scientist Emeritus, US Forest Service Research, Pringle Falls Experimental Forest

a - Denotes member of the Deschutes Provincial Travel Management Subcommittee.

Table 155. Deschutes Provincial Advisory Committee Travel Management Subcommittee and Working 

Group

Name Interest

Kate Beardsley Equestrian

Bruce Bowen Non-Motorized Recreation- Hiker/Mtn. Biker

Steve Doane Small Business Owner

Tim Van Domelen Ranger, OR Hunters Assoc.

Joani Dufourd Motorized Recreation

Bob Flint Motorized Recreation- Class I & III

Margie Gregory Oregon Equestrian Trails

Tom Landis Non-Governmental Organization, Friends of the Metolius

Marilyn Miller Juniper Group, Sierra Club

Ron Ore Small Business Owner- Motorized Rec.

Ed Putnam Non-Motorized, Recreation-Bow Hunting

Jon & Patti Pyland Motorized Recreation- Class II

Jesse Rudelitsch Central Oregon Rocks, Inc.

Eric Sorenson Central Oregon Rocks, Inc.

John Wainwright Equestrian

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests have given several presentations on the Travel Management 

Rule to various groups at several different venues. Comments received along with issues and concerns 

raised from these groups were then incorporated into the information provided from the public to our 

chartered federal advisory committee and the Internal Interdiscipinary Team. These comments, issues and 

concerns were then used to develop a strategy for implementing the rule. These recommendations were 

used to lay the framework for how the proposed action would be developed and modified. These various 

presentations and groups have been listed below. 

Oregon Hunters Association

Oregon Bow Hunters

Oregon Equestrian Club

Citizens of Crescent Junction 

Central Oregon Motorcycle & ATV Club

Ochoco Trail Riders

Deschutes County 4-Wheelers

Crescent Community Action Team

Crook County Natural Resource Committee

Klamath County Commissioners

Quiet Recreation Summit in Idaho

Willamette National Forest – Eugene Public 

Meeting

Mt Hood National Forest – Public Meeting

2006 thru 2008 – Deschutes County Fair
Chapter 4: Consultation and Coordination

394 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

2006 thru 2009 Central Oregon Sportsman Show

2006 Central Oregon Public Workshop Series – 

Forest Service Lead

2007 Central Oregon Public Workshop Series – 

Forest Service Lead

2008 Central Oregon Public Workshop Series – 

Forest Service Lead

Tribes

Traditional Cultural Sites, Tribal Relations, and Treaty Rights 

Traditional cultural properties (TCPs) are a type of historic site reviewed under the NHPA, as well as 

other tribal legislation and policy. Traditional cultural properties are defined as cultural resource sites that 

are significant for the role they play in a living culture or community’s historically rooted beliefs, 

customs, religion or cultural practices (National Register Bulletin 38). Traditional cultural properties 

represent a linkage of lifeway values that connect the landscape to a group by continued and ‘traditional’ 

use. 

American Indians and Alaska Natives are recognized as people with distinct cultures and traditional 

values. They have a special and unique legal and political relationship with the Government of the United

States as defined by history, treaties, statutes, executive orders, court decisions, and the U.S. Constitution. 

It is the policy of the U.S. Government to implement programs in ways that are knowledgeable and 

respectful of, and sensitive to Tribal sovereignty (Clinton 1994). There is an emphasis on government-togovernment relationships with federally-recognized tribes, including consultation in order to identify 

rights and concerns during the development of plans, projects, programs and activities (USDA Forest 

Service 1997). 

The Forest Service also consults with non-federally recognized tribes, organizations, and individuals. 

These groups may have many of the same concerns or issues as federally recognized groups, but do not 

enjoy the same legal status or required agency protocol. 

Tribal governments have considerable powers that are usually separate from State and local governments. 

Individual treaties, statutes--such as the American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA), and executive 

orders—such as those addressing sacred sites or tribal consultation--often reserve specific rights and/or 

address traditional interests relative to the use of federal lands. Reserved resource rights and privileges 

associated with treaties and other Indian agreements generally include activities such as hunting, fishing, 

grazing, subsistence, access to and the gathering of forest resources. In addition, land and resources hold a 

special and unique meaning in the spiritual and everyday lifeways of many Indians. National Forest lands 

and resources represent cultural and sometimes economic values to Indian people. Federally recognized 

Tribes and other Indian groups often look to the National Forests for traditional resource, religious, and 

contemporary uses, and as part of their ancestral homeland.

The Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests, including the Crooked River National Grassland maintain 

tribal relations with the following: Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon, The

Burn Paiute Tribe and the Klamath Tribes. In general all cultural resources are of interest to the tribes as 

well as areas on public lands were traditional activities take place such as gathering of wild foods and 

other forest resources, including game and fish. The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs have ceded 

land rights granted under The Treaty of Middle Oregon 1855 (Treaty of Wasco, Columbia River, Oregon 

Territory with the Taih, Wyam, Tenino, & Dock-Spus Bands of the Walla-Walla, and the Dalles, Ki-GalTwal-La, and the Dog River Bands of the Wasco, June 25, 1855, 12 Stat., 963., Ratified Mar. 8, 1859, 

Proclaimed Apr. 18, 1859) covering parts of the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests and the Crooked 

River National Grassland, which convey to them the right to exercise their treaty rights on public lands in 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 395

common with other citizens. The Burns Paiute and Klamath Tribes also exercise such practices on their 

traditional territories including lands and resources of the two Forests. In addition pictograph sites are 

known to be a type of site that is “sensitive” to Indian Tribes. These sites may or may not be indicative of 

traditional use, and are abundant in certain drainages of the analysis area. The pictograph sites are 

addressed as archaeological sites elsewhere in this document (Chapter 3).

Indian Treaties and portions of the Indian Claims Commission map covering Oregon indicate that only 

“reserved resource rights” (e.g., treaty rights) exist for the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs 

Reservation. 

These three tribes, the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation of Oregon, The Burn Paiute 

Tribe and the Klamath Tribes are within the ‘sphere of influence’ for the Travel Plan analysis and were 

contacted during the initial stages of planning. The analysis team met with the tribes on various occasions 

both at the tribal offices (9/1/2006) and during the Annual Tribal Coordination Meeting from 2007 – 

2009. The tribes also had an active member on our working group, Clay Penhollow, who attended the 

majority of our working group meetings and many of the public meetings. 

Tribes were informed of the different public scoping meetings through various public announcements. 

The tribes received hard copies of the DEIS when it was released and they received an update letter on 

May 20, 2009. No written comments or responses were received from the tribes. 

Based on information supplied during the initial travel planning by the Deschutes and Ochoco National 

Forests and special interest groups, the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation was 

acknowledged as having an interest in Travel Management Planning, its effects on the landscape and/or 

locations for their traditional practices. Forest Service representatives (Line Officer and Heritage Staff) 

personally contacted the appropriate tribal cultural resource delegate, both by phone and through personal 

visitation at the Tribal Offices. No concerns were brought forward by the Confederated Tribes of the 

Warm Springs Reservation. 

Distribution of the Final Environmental Impact Statement

The Forest Service will be distributing, or making available, the Final Environmental Impact Statement 

and Record of Decision to the individuals, agencies, tribes, and non-Forest Service persons listed on the 

following pages.

Distribution may be through a variety of media, including, but not limited to: notification via letter or 

email of electronic availability and location of document, or via compact disc.
Chapter 4: Consultation and Coordination

396 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Federal, Tribal, State, Local Governments, Groups, and Individuals

Federal Agencies

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

U.S. Department of Energy

U.S. Forest Service Pacific NW Regional Office

U.S.D.A. Office of Civil Rights

U.S. Air Force 

U.S. Navy 

U.S. Army

U.S. Coast Guard

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

National Oceanic & Atmospheric 

Administration

NOAA Office of Policy and Strategy

NEPA Administration

Federal Highway Administration

John Day Fossil Beds National Monument

National Marine Fisheries Service

Tribes

Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs 

Reservation of Oregon

The Burn Paiute Tribe 

The Klamath Tribes

Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians 

State Government

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

Oregon Department of Parks and Recreation

Local Government

Crook County

Deschutes County

Deschutes County Board of Commissioners

Gilliam County Court & Commissioners 

Grant County Court and Commissioners

Jefferson County

Jefferson County Court and Commissioners

Klamath County

Lake County

Wasco County

Wasco County Court

Wheeler County

Individuals 

A. Brakora

A.B.A.T.E.

Aaron Helfrich

Aaron Switzer

Ace Discount Motorsports

Adam Archepohl

Adam Sutterfield

Advisory Council on Historic 

Preservation

Al & Melissa Duncan

Al Luttrel

Alan & Kelly Hanslovian

Alan Kakovich

Alaska Region Headquarters

Alex McDonald

Alison Hamway

Allan Downer

Allan Holmes

Allen Morgan

Allison Frost

Alva Flock

Amanda Schaaf

Ambers & Bonnie Thornburgh

American Rivers

American Rivers - W&S Rivers

Amy Amoroso

Amy Stuart

Andre Pinette

Andrew Vetterlein

Andy Reese

Andy Smith

Ann Graff

Ann Jenkins

Anna Marie Zoellmer

Anna Sampson

Anne Denniston

Annie Andreson

Anthony P. Peiffer

April Alarcon

Archaeological Society of C.O.

Arlie Holme

Armel Mason

Arne Smith

Arnold Ryland

Art Easley

Art Waugh

Arvid Sanshaug

Arwell Collins

Asante Riverwind

Aubrey Russell

Audubon of Portland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 397

B&S Logging, Inc.

Barbara Hunt

Barney Lerten

Barry Jones

Barry Reid

Becky Andrews

Belda's

Ben Lindner

Ben Sunderland

Berta Youtie

Beth Ayer

Beth Casper

Beverly Brown

Beyer Tree Farm

Big Lake Youth Camp

Bill & Alice Tye

Bill & Donna McCormack, Sr.

Bill & Jeannie Kloepper

Bill & Marie Sanowski

Bill & Sue Jenkins

Bill Bellamy

Bill Brews

Bill Crager

Bill Dart

Bill Fockler

Bill Gee

Bill Gowen

Bill Lewey

Bill Marlett

Bill Martin

Bill Mintiens

Bill More

Bill O'Loughlin

Bill Pierce

Bill Rhoades

Bill Rush

Bill Scally

Bill Smith

Bill Waddel

Billy Toman

Black Butte Ranch

Blake Lundstrom

Blue Ribbon Coalition

Bob & Cindy Chamberlin

Bob & Diane Siebert

Bob & Eileen Woodward

Bob & Jean Anne White

Bob & Ruth Collins

Bob & Shawn Schwarz

Bob & Sue Ballenger

Bob Baker

Bob Bastian

Bob Davis

Bob Flint

Bob Friemark

Bob Gilbert

Bob Heims

Bob Hoyser

Bob Huskey

Bob Jensen

Bob Lever

Bob Lofgren

Bob Lyhtly

Bob Mullong

Bob Mullong

Bob Shackelford

Bob Slesk

Bob Thomas

Bobby Kennedy

Bonnie Lamb

Boyd E. Wickman

Brad & Shelley Santucci

Brad Boyd

Brad Chalfant

Brad Lasniewski

Brad Nye

Brent Jenkins

Brent L. Barclay

Brett Anderson

Brett Frazier

Brett Hodgson

Brian & Kay Case

Brian and Laura Lee Lash

Brian Brown

Brian Buxton

Brian Cunningham

Brian Ferry

Brian Finnerman

Brian Highsmith

Brian Muller

Brian Nevels

Brian O'Keefe

Brian Radke

Brian Silvey

Brian Suedin

Brian Sutton

Brian Sykes

Brian Von Domelin

Brian Yates

Brooke Snavely

Bruce & Jennifer Smith

Bruce Berryhill

Bruce Bowen

Bruce Clement

Bruce Cramer

Bruce Harrison

Bruce McCullough

Bruce Murdock

Bud Hillman

Bud Smith

Bump Stafford

Buzzy Aanders

C Snith

C. Monson

C. W. Jonas

Caleb Veach

Camp Caldera

Camp Davidson

Carl & Ronda Metler

Carl B Cox

Carl Kittelson

Carl Rapp

Carl Sampson

Carl Schnabele

Carol Garrison

Carol Jensen

Carol Simpson

Carole Cole

Carole Crail

Carrie Prouix

Cary Hagedorn

Cascade Motor Sports
Chapter 4: Consultation and Coordination

398 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Cascade Natural Gas

Cathy Lee

Cathy Wambaugh

Central Oregon Flyfishers

Central Oregon Running Club

Central Oregon Trail Alliance

Chamber of Commerce

Chandra LeGue

Charles & Carolyn Baughman

Charles Abernathy

Charles Dowmen

Charles Engel

Cheryl Crosby

Cheryl Ingersoll

Cheryl Johns

Chets Electric, Inc.

Chris & Family Hays

Chris Beck

Chris Kratsch

Chris Neubaum

Chris Paulsen

Chris Schenk

Chris Shaw

Chris Shepardon

Chris Shepardson

Christine Golightly

Chub Fessler

Chuck & Sally Wells

Chuck Burley

Chuck Defoe

Chuck Ehlers

Chuck Gater

Chuck Hopkins

Chuck McGovern

Chuck Shephard

Chuck Williams

Cindi O'Neil

Clay Penhollow

Cliff Kiser

Cliff Marsh

Clyde Zeller

Cogwild Bicycle Tours

Cole Still

Colleen Hager

Colleen Horton

Collins Cycle Shop

Columbia Riv. Inter. Fish Com.

COMAC

Connie Baker

Connie Madar

Conrad & Joan Weiler

Conrad Weiler

Conservation Service

Constance Albrecht

Corey Heath

Cort Vaughan

Cory Koehler

COTA Motorcycle Club

Craig Adelhart

Craig Bierman

Craig Hughson

Craig Miller

Craig Nelson

Craig Palen

Craig Peck

Craig Soule

Craig Woodward

Crestview Cable

Crista Porfily

Crook County Historical Soc.

Crooked River Ranch

Crosby Grindle

Curk Pieratt

Curt Christopherson

Curtis Hardie

Cycle Sports

Cycle Sports of Salem

Cynthia Foster

Daina Bambe

Dale & Bobby Sarkkinen

Dale Conler

Dale Luhman

Dale McCullough 

Dale Neubauer

Dale Neubauer

Dale Sumner

Dale Walker

Damon A. Beck

Dan Applebaker

Dan Beltrami

Dan Berman

Dan Bishop

Dan Blankenship

Dan Costello

Dan Cunha

Dan Domenighini

Dan Erickson

Dan Fogarty

Dan Graber

Dan Kitts

Dan Nichols

Dan Paige

Dan Spatz

Dan Varcoe

Dana Hayden

Daniel & Jane Petke

Daniel Harnden

Daniel J. Cobb

Daniel Morse

Danny L. Muran

Darcy McNamara

Darek Staab

Daren L. Burt

Darrel Ceciliani

Darrell & Donna Bennett

Darrell Agee

Darrell Reid

Darren Bruning

Darren Roe

Darryl Schroeder

Daryl Owens

Dave & Lynda Sullivan

Dave & Toni Laney

Dave Cheney

Dave Cook

Dave Ehle

Dave Hannibal

Dave Kimball

Dave Lockhart

Dave Maul

Dave McClain

Dave McMechan
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 399

Dave Molony

Dave Neys

Dave Peterson

Dave Priest

Dave Purdy

Dave Tovey

Dave Wassom

David & Christine Kissler

David & Connie Lloyd

David & Diana Christensen

David & Janet Veach

David & Kris Scharfenberg

David Atkinson

David Blair

David Booth

David E. Jordan

David H. Tjomsland

David J. Robinson

David Klug

David Ledder

David Pitts

David Wood

Dawn Stafford

Dawn Stender

Dawn Woodward

Dean Campbell

Debbie Henderson-Norton

Debbie Sease

Debbrah Martin

Deborah S. Bunch

Deng Sandara

Denise Smith

Dennis & Kathy Beetham

Dennis & Krystal Laas

Dennis & Linda Tribby

Dennis & Valerie Wolf

Dennis Berry

Dennis Fish

Dennis Greenman

Dennis Heater

Dennis Holt

Dennis Holte

Dennis Krakow

Dennis Leahie

Dennis Lemons

Dennis Luke

Dennis McAfee

Dennis Miller

Dennis Oliphant

Dennis Reynolds

Dennis Stafford

Dennis Whitmore

Dennis Zuhlke

Deschutes County Historical 

Society

Dewayne Weaver

Dhyana Kearly

Diana Wong

Diane Bohle

Diane Dietz

Diane Hamilton

Dick & Audrey Bedortha

Dick & Joani Dufourd

Dick & Rosie Seigle

Dick Spray

Doc & Connie Hatfield

Don & Jean Edwards

Don Allen

Don Hamon

Don Hilges

Don James

Don McCoun

Don Ratcliff

Donald F Falgren

Donald Hanset

Donald Miltenberger

Donald R. Shank

Donald Smith

Donald W. Lantz

Donna McCormack

Donna Pickens

Doug Breese

Doug Conner

Doug Donoho

Doug Hayden

Doug Heiken

Doug Riggs

Doug Taylor

Douglas & Elva Watson

Douglas C. MacCourt 

Douglas L Griffiin

Douglas W. Young

Dout Breese

Duane Cody

Duane Wyman

Dude S. Aylor

Duncan Brunoe

Dwain Dunkin

Eagle Crest

Earl F. Mitchell

Eastern Oregon Forest 

Protection

Eastern Region

Ed & Betty Price

Ed & Jodi Duffy

Ed Burnap

Ed Chotard

Ed Faulkner

Ed Fuller

Ed Horn

Ed Putnam

Ed Ross

Ed Sink

Ed Vesci

Ed Wheeler

Ed Young

Eddie Sink

Edward & Julie Denfeld

Edward Blodgett

Edwin & Rhoda Hill

Eileen Fitzsimons

Eldrit Van Wert

Elizabeth Jameson

Emerald Trail Riders Assoc.

Emma T. Sußrez, Esq

Environmental Reviewer

Eric & Debra Johnson

Eric & Debra Kosel

Eric D. Swanson

Eric Hunt

Eric Lundquest

Eric Meglasson

Eric Schulz

Eric Vetterlein
Chapter 4: Consultation and Coordination

400 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Ernie Gerloft

Ernie McKenzie

Errol Schnider

Eugene & Rose Marie Jenne

Eugene M. Brick

Eva Eagle

Ford Tannock

Forrest Fleischman

Fox 39

Frank Butchart

Frank Deweese

Frank Morton

Fred Baldwin

Fred Harper

Fred Tanis

Frederick L. Ross

Freeman Faly

Friends of Living Waters

Frontier Advertiser

Full Circle, Inc.

Galen Wunsch

Garrett Waltosz

Garvis Elmer

Gary & Barbara Roberson

Gary & Carolyn Strong

Gary & Colleen Haynes

Gary & Darlene Berntsen

Gary Clowers

Gary Crooker

Gary Dobish

Gary Ervin

Gary Forster

Gary Gump

Gary Hamlin

Gary Hampton

Gary McCloud

Gary Miller

Gary Schoenecker

Gary Schreiber

Gary Tewalt

Gary Walker

Gary Ward

Gary Young

Gayle Hunt

Gazette-Times

Gene Hickman

Gene McCullen

Gene McMullen

Gene Theophilus

Geoff Hill

Geoff Pelham

George & Tammy Plover

George E. Eichner

George Irwin

George Law

George Nelson

George Ponte

George R. Johnson

George Tryon

George VanderMeer

Gerald Keck

Gerry Jimerson

Gert Borschowa

Gina Edmundson

Glen Ardt

Glen Cox

Glenn Fessler

Glenn Summers

Gordon Baker

Gordon Clark

Gordon Conroy

Gordon DeArmond

Gordon Scott

Gordon Smith

Grant County Commissioners

Grant Covey

Grant McCombie

Grant Putnam 

Gray Butte Grazing Assoc.

Great Lakes Region

Greg Bedortha

Greg Caster

Greg Collins

Greg Concannon

Greg Gulbrandsen

Greg Hooper

Greg Lambert

Greg Munn

Greg Peschka

Greg Walden

Gregg Johannsen

Gutlerrez Cattle Co.

Guy Williamson

Hal Busch

Hal Shepherd

Hank Court

Harol D. Reeves

Harold J. Kalleck

Harold Jolley

Harold Nippert

Harold Shepherd

Henry Melhorn

Henry P. Flegl

Herbert & Virginia Jones

Herbert McKay

Herschel Read

Hilary Miller

Holly Gill

Hutches Bicycles

Ian Caldwell

International Mtn Biking Assoc

Ivan L. Spencer Jr.

J. Philip Brittain

J.R. Simplot Co.

J.W. & Pam Hart

Jack & Charlotte Milam

Jack & Dotty Barringer

Jack Campbell

Jack Collins

Jack Hagan

Jack Jones

Jack Lafond

Jack Remington

Jade Ames

James & Catherine Lane

James & Janell Casey

James Baker

James D. McMahan

James H. Smith

James Hamrick

James P. & Sheryl Meador

James Tuttle
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 401

Jamie Hildebrandt

Jan O’Rorke

Jane Bidwell

Janet Buck

Janice Staats

Janine Blaylock

Jason Dedrick

Jason Rogers

Jason Skirving

Jason Vonice

JB Cox

Jeanne E. Burch

Jeff & Linda Helfrich

Jeff & Runinda McCormack

Jeff Behan

Jeff Bounds

Jeff Davies

Jeff Dillon

Jeff Fields

Jeff Fix

Jeff Givens

Jeff Jensen

Jeff Karmy

Jeff Lucas

Jeff Perin

Jeff Rice

Jeff Tomlinson

Jeff Wilmot

Jeff Zennie

Jeffry & Jeff Hagness

Jenelle Standiford

Jennifer O'Reilly

Jeremiah O'Leary

Jeremy & Lauren Shields

Jeremy Symons

Jerome Loomis

Jerry & Barbara Walters

Jerry & Nina Christopherson

Jerry Arney

Jerry Cordova

Jerry Honl

Jerry McBeth

Jerry Reid

Jerry Routson

Jerry Vroman

Jesse Knight

Jessica Rasmussen

Jessie & Paul Goodmonson

Jim & Betty Borgen

Jim & Janet Crates

Jim & Mary Ann Owen

Jim & Trula Kielblock

Jim Anderson

Jim Berl

Jim Buckley

Jim Cornelius

Jim Hogan

Jim Kalleck

Jim King

Jim King

Jim King

Jim Landles

Jim Loso

Jim McClellan

Jim McCullough

Jim Morrell

Jim Morrell

Jim Peterson

Jim Terhaar

Jim Versteeg

Jim Walz

Jim Williams

Jim Wood

Jim Woodward

Joan C. Faulkner

Joan Field

Joan Griffin

Joanne Cleland

Jody Norton

Jody Stewart

Joe Brotherton

Joe G. Ricker

Joe Gannon

Joe Kirk

Joe McCormick

Joe Wernex

Joe Weston

Joe Whittington

Joe, Julie and Danielle Barrell

Joey Neuman

Johanna Ebert

John & Barbara Grant

John & Cindi Lee Milton

John & Elaine Field

John & Linda Buckmaster

John & Linda Roberts

John & Marty Strong

John & Peggy Spieger

John & Sue Close

John & Susan Mosley

John & Susan Pindar

John Aveggio

John Campbell

John Dotson

John Duncan

John Gamil

John Gill

John Hayes

John Hazel

John J. Taggart

John K. Wainwright

John Krog

John McLeod

John Morgan

John Muir Project

John Paine

John Philipps 

John Rothlishberger

John Schloth

John Shulze

John Speger

John Stephenson

Jolly Jeepers

Jon & Jan Justensen

Jon & Patti Pyland

Jon Cain

Jon Devorak

Jon Ditgen

Jon Dvorak

Jon E. Morrow

Jon Peterson

Jon Sholes
Chapter 4: Consultation and Coordination

402 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Jonathan Kusel

Jones Creek Trail Riders Assoc.

Joni Mogstad

Joseph & Marcella Edmonds

Joseph Herriman

Josh Laughlin

Joshua Hicks

Joyce Coats

Joyce Wolley

Judy Barnes

Judy D Hawkins

Julie Cavanaugh

Justin McVeigh

Kace Allen

Karen Burger

Karen Coulter

Karen Niffenegger

Karen Rhinevault

Karen Watkins

Karl Farr

Karol Bauldres

Kate Beardsley

Kate Ramsayer

Kate Werrerstron

Kathleen Benz

Kathleen Buchholz

Kathryn J. Nachand

Kathy Cullis

Kathy Kampschmidt

Kathy Wilson

Keith & Janet Nash

Keith Harless

Keith Johnson

Keith Larsen

Kelly Shobe

Kelly Smith

Kelsey Powers

Ken Diehl

Ken Evans

Ken Hisel

Ken Jacobsen

Ken Kuehn

Ken Sumerlin

Kenna Hoyser

Kenneth Read

Kenneth Streater

Kent Barnes

Kent Gill

Kent Howes

Kent Schafer

Kent Wulf

Kerby Neumann

Kevin & Kelly Goodrich

Kevin Coari

Kevin Fisher

Kevin Hescock

Kevin Mace

Kevin Magnuson

Kevin Murray

Kim McCarrel

Kim McKillop

Kim Russell

Kim Ward

Kimberly Lane

Kipp Franklin

Kirk & Paige Winebarger

KMTR NewsSource 16

Kris & Kimberly Iverson

Kristen McDonald

Kristen West

Kristin Ruether

KTVZ

Kurt Lockhart

Kurt Vanderpool

KXL 750 News radio

Kyle Cocherell

Kyle Gorman

Kyle Reeves

L Varco

L. F. MacNeill

Lance Seaber

Larry & Susan Davison

Larry Cole

Larry Coon

Larry Godsey

Larry Keith

Larry Lancaster

Larry Langley

Larry McCall

Larry Pecenka

Larry Schumaker

Larry Swenson

Larry Ulrich

Larry Zak

Laura Shepard

Laura Snedaker

Laurel Hines

Lawrence Huntley

Lee Belknap

Lee McBeth

Lee Zukoski

Len Mathisen

Len Reed

Leon Loomis

Leonard & Sandra Kerns

Leonard Houston

Leonard Kerns

LeRoy Ordrill

Les Anderson

Leslie & Cheryl Sundet

Leslie A. Laing

Leslie Pugmire-Hole

Libby Hendren

Linda Craig

Linda Jerofke

Linda Tracy

Lisa Desertrider

Lisa Nye

Lloyd Goff

Lloyd Kruse

Lonnie Merrill

Lonny Gallagher

Loretta Jones

Lori Lampe

Lorraine Cherry

Louis Harrison

Louis Shyduik

Lyle E. Rilling

Lyle Smith 

Lynette Confer

Lynn Miller

Lynn Roby
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 403

Lynne Breese

Lynne McWhorter

M. Brown

M. Edmonds

M. Ray & Bonnie Sessler

Madras Pioneer

Marc Toy

Marcus Peck

Marge Boyles

Margie Gregory

Marian Lee

Marie Horn-Phillips

Marilyn Miller

Mario Milichich

Mark & Shelley Dinsmore

Mark Copeland

Mark Englund

Mark Heater

Mark Jamison

Mark Malefyt

Mark Malott

Mark Porter

Mark Ruple

Mark Schongellow

Mark Schumaker

Mark Sherman

Mark Tompkins

Mark Zertanna

Marler Ranch LLC

Marshall Bowen

Martie Lee Erwin

Martin & Donna Stegman

Martin & Marie Hansen

Marty Olson

Marty Sherman

Marvin Hicks

Marvin Ohlde

Mary Ann Jestil

Mary Hanson

Mary Mauerer

Mary Zemke

Matt & Carol Williams

Matt Bales

Matt Burri

Matt Coale

Matt Herriman

Matthew Preusch

Maureen Wilkin

Max Holstad

Max Johnson

McKenzie River Chamber Of 

Commerce

McKenzie Walker

Mel & Nancy Blackburn

Mel Berthold

Mel Kusler

Melvin George Kimmel

Meylan Thoresen

Michael & Sandra Rossi

Michael Duley

Michael Gainsforth

Michael Law

Michael Milstein

Michael Rees

Michael W. Gendler

Michaele Geisler

Michele Mason

Michele Morseth

Michelle Penner

Michelle Robinson

Michelle Steinhebel

Midstate Power Products

Mike & Amy Gerdes

Mike & April Griggs

Mike & Carol Jackson

Mike Beall

Mike Brown

Mike Casey

Mike Creager

Mike Daly

Mike Dolfey

Mike Egger

Mike Foster

Mike Franzini

Mike Gangstead

Mike Garrett

Mike Ginter

Mike Haberlock

Mike Harrington

Mike Hernandez

Mike Lohman

Mike McCabe

Mike McCarthy

Mike McGillivray

Mike McGowan

Mike McHaney

Mike Mchaney

Mike McKinney

Mike Morris

Mike Nagle

Mike Nopp

Mike Sinatra

Mike Stahlberg

Mike VanMeter

Mike White

Mike Wiens

Mitch Webb

Mitchell Rogers

Mitchell Webb

Mollie Chaudet

Molly Jobe

Morris W. Edwards

Mt. Jefferson Sno. Club

Mt. Scott Motorcycle Club

Nancy Alderson

Nancy Gilbert

Nancy Prince

National Agriculture Library

Natalie Inouye

Nate Schmit

Nathan Baer

Nature Conservancy

NBC KGW-TV

Neal Booth

Newell Clarno

Nicole Czarnomski

Norm Parlz

Norma Funai

Norman & Eunice Wells

Northwest Mountain Region

Northwest Power Planning 

Council 

Norvel Arbogast

NW Environ. Defense Center
Chapter 4: Consultation and Coordination

404 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

NW Motorcycle Association

Obsidians

Ochoco Trail Riders

Olga Dielman

Omar Moffitt

OR Forest Resources Institute

Oregon Cattlemans Assoc

Oregon Hunters Association

Oregon Hunters Association

Oregon Watershed 

Enhancement Board

Oregon Wild

Orville Aas

Orville Hinds

Orvis Olson

Outdoor Power Equipment

Over the Bars Gang

Owen Moore

Pacific Crest Trail Association

Pacific Rivers Council

PacificCorp

Pamela Hulse

Pat & Naida Miller

Pat Brown

Pat McDevitt

Pat Rhoden

Pat Southworth

Pat Super

Pat Vanderwater

Patricia Gainsforth

Patrick & Christy Steber

Patrick F Creedican

Patrick Hughes

Patrick Simning

Patrick Troubridge

Patti Miller

Paul Dewey

Paul Donheffner

Paul Hagen

Paul Hammerquist

Paul Quinn

Paul Reddick

Paul S. Garstka

Paul Spriggs

Paul Thomasberg

Paul Valle

Paul Young

PaulÆs Bicycle Way of Life

Pauline Braymen

PBS KOAB-TV and KOPB-TV

Peggy Speiger

Perry Chocktoot

Pete & Scott Fisher & Family

Pete & Julie Unger

Pete Robertson

Pete, BB & Katherine 

McKearnan

Peter Gutowsky

Peter M. Lacy

Peter Mayer

Peter Von Ohlen

Peter Woodworth

Phil & Janet White

Phil & Laverne Blatt

Phil Gray

Phil Weigand

Philip Avila

Phillip & Lorissa Singhose

Piper Bryan

Power Trip Motor Sports

Power Trip Motorsports

Prineville Power Sports

Quest of the West

R. Elkin

R.L. Garrigus

Rachel Thomas

Ralph & Aletha Kleinschmit

Ralph Kleinschmit

Ralph Mabee

Rance Kastor

Rance Pilley, Jr.

Randall & Martha Baustian

Randy & Mona Drake

Randy Charapata

Randy Haugstad

Randy J. Zustiak

Randy Jacobs

Randy Moorman

Randy Nicolay

Randy Ostrem

Randy Peterson

Randy Rasmussen

Randy Statton

Ray & Barb Leroque

Ray & Beverly Clarno

Ray Hatton

Rayden & Lauradell Johnson

Rayden Johnson

Raymond Putnam

REDI Company

Remo Melchiori

Renee Erler

Renee Roufs

Rhonda Marquis

Ric Foster

Richard & Ann Ross

Richard & Judy Young

Richard & Vicki Nelson

Richard Berry

Richard Bloomfeldt

Richard Cahl

Richard Dechant

Richard Gibson

Richard Gray

Richard H. Larson

Richard Hansen

Richard J. Hansen

Richard Klyce

Richard Marx

Richard McCauley

Richard Ridgeway

Richard Stokes

Richard Vinciguerra

Rick & Chris Bjurling

Rick & Linda Crosland

Rick & Marti Olkowski

Rick Bozarth

Rick Ella

Rick George

Rick Gerhardt

Rick Haren

Rick Vecqueray

Rita Eberle

Rob Hopper
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 405

Rob Miles

Rob Norem

Robert & Peggy Watson

Robert Helton

Robert J. Vanier, Jr.

Robert M. Thomas

Robert Marheine

Robert Oborne

Robert Oetting

Robert Richter

Robert Schecter

Robert Sharp

Robert Speik

Robert Willis

Roberta Vandehey

Robin Oeffner

Rod Bonacker

Rod Kacalek

Rod Martino

Rod Wyle

Rod Zobrist

Roderick & Danielle Paul 

Rodger Carbone

Rodney Johnson

Roger & Kathleen Harris

Roger & Louise Linton

Roger Cunningham

Roger Lancour

Roger O. Ediger

Roger Teune

Roger White

Ron Alverez

Ron Angell

Ron Eppersu

Ron Gillen

Ron Grace

Ron Hight

Ron Nelson

Ron Olson

Ron Ore

Ron Suppah

Ron W. VanDomelen

Ron Wyden

Ronald & Gail Stone

Ronald A. Raasch

Ronald Haas

Ronald S. Yockim

Ronald Toff

Ronda Sneva

Ronnie & Renee Simpson

Roosters Motorcycle Club

Ross Kennedy

Roy Epperson

Roy Glauthie

Roy Mills

Russell Reade

Russell Thomas

Ruth Wolfe

Ryan Brown

S.J. & Jessie E. Quincy

Sage's Dirt and Street 

Performance

Sally Bird

Sam Drevo

Sam Pitts

Sam Raines

Sande Listman

Sandra Cunningham

Sandra Reeves

Sandra Sands

Sara Jane Brown

Sarah Miller

Sarah Schartz

Sarah Uhlemann

Sarah Welker

Scott A. Hartley

Scott Allen

Scott Brown

Scott Buckle

Scott Cook

Scott Cooper

Scott G. Hanken

Scott Hoefer

Scott Johnson

Scott L. Dickinson

Scott Lewis

Scott McCaulou

Scott Morrison

Scott Myers

Scott Odgers

Scott Silver

Scott Staats

Scott Stuemke

Scott Turo

Scott Williams

Seidenverg Family

Seth Farger

Shannon Bailey

Shaun Lamar

Sheila Pyott

Shelly Glass

Shelly Swanke

Sherman & Pete Johnston

Sherman County Court

Sherold Barr

Sherrill "Smitty" Smith

Shirlee Evans

Slater Comm & Electronics

Smucker ATV Sales

Society of Range Management

Sonia & Doug Lamoreaux & 

Knudsen

Sothon S. Suy

Southern Region

Stacey Smith

Stan Capps

Stan Peterson

Stan Rodgers

Stan Summers

Stan Swol

Steiwer Ranches Inc.

Stephen & Jan Miller

Stephen & Jill Grittman

Stephen Kozma

Stephen Shunk

Steve & Linda Fleming

Steve Beyerlin

Steve Carscallen

Steve Doane

Steve Grasty

Steve Johnson

Steve Marx

Steve Mathers

Steve Palecki
Chapter 4: Consultation and Coordination

406 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Steve Payer

Steve Peterson

Steve Phipps

Steve Robbins

Steve Schaefers

Steve Trenhaille

Steve West

Steve Woolery

Steven & Genevieve Schroll

Steven Davison

Steven Gupton

Stever & Katie Yates

Stew Butts

Stinch McLaren

Stu Garrett

Sue Currier

Sue Shepardson

Sunriver Nature Center

Sunriver Owners Association

Sunriver Resort

Susan Chapp

Susan Gray

Susan Lowen

Susan Matheny

Susan Tannock

Suzy Burns

T. Cecil

Tad Hodgert

Tammy Walker

Ted E. Baumgardner

Ted Ferrioli

Ted Kleinman

Ted Scholer

Ted Taylor

Ted Wise

Terrill Isaak

Terry Becker

Terry Cowan

Terry Landon

Terry Neill

Terry Petty

Terry Silbaugh

Terry Westlake

Thayne & Kay Corwin

The Bend Bulletin

The Cove Palisades State Park

Thomas E Adams

Tim Lillebo

Tim O'Neal

Tim Unterwegner

Tim Wakefield

Timothy Deboodt

Timothy Marshall

Toby Harper

Todd Artman

Todd Kepple

Todd Zwiel

Tom & Carol

Tom & Carol Strand

Tom & Charlotte Scott

Tom & Gayle Casselman

Tom & Lori Forestelle

Tom & Marilyn Kasch

Tom & Pat Harris

Tom Coffield

Tom May

Tom Morley

Tom Niemela

Tom Raglan

Tom Ruckman

Tom Sedgwick

Tom Street

Tom Turner

Tom Wolverton

Tony & Cookie Landauer

Tony Oliver

Tracie Wrisley

Tracy Bahr

Travis Severance

Travis Urell

Travis Willson

Tribal Chairmain

Tripp Sommer

Trish Pinkerton

Trisha Liddell

Troy & Dylan Stone

Troy Mannthey

Troy York

Tyler Groo

Tyler Silver

Tyrrell P. Hart

Utah Snelless

Val & John Shaul

Vance Tong

Vanessa Johnston

Vern Balkowitsch 

Vern Oden

Verna Marks

Vince Halsey

Vincent & Claudia Pelly

Virgil LeBlanc

Voni Gurney

Wade & Candice Thompson

Wade Popham

Wally Flanner

Walt Wolfe

Walter Cordell

Walter Ponsford

Walter Schwarz

Warren Brown

Warren Meyer

Wayne & Luann Danforth

Wayne Albright

Wayne Andersent

Wayne Bailey, Sr.

Wayne Best

Wayne Coultas

Wayne E. Van Loon, Sr.

Wayne Sellers

Wendell Gump

Wendy Colby

Wendy Zustiak

West L. Starr

Western Radio Services,Inc

Western-Pacific Region

Wilderness Society - NW 

Regional Office

Wiley Davis

Will & Lisa Hislebeard

Will Hislebeard

William Burton

William Hilton

William Jameson
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 407

William Jourdan

William L. Snyder

William Mordenbeagle

William R. McCormack

William Sullivan

William W. Glenn

Yakima Valley Dust Dodgers

Yy Woodruff

Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 409

References

Adams, E.M. and M.L. Morrison. 1993. Effects of forest stand structure and composition on red-breasted 

nuthatches and brown creepers. Journal of Wildlife Manage. 57(3):616-629. 

Adams, J.A., A.S. Endo, L.H. Stolzy, P.G. Rowlands, and H.B. Johnson. 1982a. Controlled experiments 

on soil compaction produced by off-road vehicles in the Mojave Desert, California. Journal of 

Applied Ecology 19:167-175. 

Adams, J.A., L.H. Stolzy, A.S. Endo, P.G. Rowlands, and H.B. Johnson. 1982b. Desert soil compaction 

reduces annual plant cover. California Agriculture, September-October.

Albright, Del. 2008. What to Do in this Trying Economy. [Online] October 2008. 

http://sharetrails.org/magazine/article.php?id=1636. Accessed 1/15/2009.

Altman, B and A. Holmes. 2000. Conservation Strategy for Landbirds in the Columbia Plateau of Oregon 

and Washington. Version 1.0. Oregon-Washington Partners in Flight. 116 pp.

Altman, B. 2000. Conservation Strategy for Landbirds in the Northern Rocky Mountains of Oregon and 

Washington. Version 1.0. Oregon-Washington Partners in Flight. 99 pp.

Altman, B. 2000. Conservation Strategy for Landbirds of the East-Slope of the Cascade Mountains in 

Oregon and Washington. Version 1.0. Oregon-Washington Partners in Flight. 81 pp.

AMEC. 2005. Mackenzie Gas Project: Effects of Noise on Wildlife. AMEC Americas Limited.

Andrews, A. 1990. Fragmentation of habitat by roads and utility corridors – A review. Australian 

Zoologist 26:130-141 IN: Ouren, D.S., C. Haas, C.P. Melcher, S.C. Stewart, P.D. Ponds, N.R. 

Sexton, L. Burris, T. Fancher, and Z.H. Bowen. 2007. Environmental effects of off-highway 

vehicles on Bureau of Land Management lands: A literature synthesis, annotated bibliographies, 

extensive bibliographies, and internet resources: U.S. Geological Survey, Open-File Report 2007-

1353. 225 pp.

Anthony, R.G. and F.B. Isaacs. 1989. Characteristics of bald eagle nest sites in Oregon. Journal of 

Wildlife Management 53:148-159. IN: Gaines, W.L., P.H. Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. 

Assessing the cumulative effects of linear recreation routes on wildlife habitats on the Okanogan 

and Wenatchee National Forests. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-586. Portland, OR: U.S. 

Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 79 pp.

Anthony, R.G., E.D. Forsman, A.B. Franklin, D.R. Anderson, K.P. Burnham, G.C. White, and others. 

2004. Status and trends in demography of northern spotted owls, 1985-2003. Unpublished Final 

Report to the Northwest Forest Plan Regional Interagency Executive Committee. 180 pp. 

http://www.reo.gov/monitoring/trends/Compiled%20Report%20091404.pdf. 

Anthony, R.G., R.J. Steidl, and K. McGarigal. 1995. Recreation and bald eagles in the Pacific Northwest. 

IN: R.L. Knight and K.J. Gutzwiller, eds. Wildlife and recreationists: coexistence through 

management and research. Island Press, Washington D.C. 372 pp.

Askins, R.A. 1994. Open corridors in a heavily forested landscape: impact on shrubland and forestinterior birds. Wildlife Society Bulletin 22:339-347 IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of 

recreation on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife 

Society.
References

410 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Askins, R.A., M.J. Philbrick, and D.S. Sugeno. 1987. Relationship between the regional abundance of 

forest and the composition of forest bird communities. Biological Conservation 39:129-152 IN: 

Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of recreation on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. 

Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Aubry, K.B., M.J. Crites, and S.D. West. 1991. Regional patterns of small mammal abundance and 

community composition in Oregon and Washington. Pages 284-294 in PNW-GTR-285, Pacific 

Northwest Research Station, USDA Forest Service, Olympia, WA.

Ayala, R.D., P. Srivastava, C.J. Brodbeck, E.A. Carter, and T.P. McDonald, 2005. Water quality impacts 

from ORV trail stream crossing in the Talladega National Forest, Alabama, USA. Written for 

presentation at the Annual COFE Meeting: Soil, Water, and Timber Management: Forest 

Engineering Solutions in response to Forest Regulation. July 11-14, 2005, Arcata, CA. p. 52-60. 

Banci, V. 1994. Wolverine. IN: Ruggerio, L.F., K.B. Aubry, S.W. Buskirk, L.J. Lyon, and W.J. Zielinski, 

tech eds. 1994. The Scientific Basis for Conserving Carnivores: American Marten, Fisher, Lynx 

and Wolverine in the Western United States. Gen. Tech. Rep. RM-254. Ft. Collins, CO: U.S. 

Dept. of Ag, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station. 184 pp.

Barton, D.C. and A.L. Holmes. 2007. Off-highway vehicle trail impacts on breeding songbirds in 

northeastern California. Journal of Wildlife Management 71(5):1617-1620. 

Bartos, D. and W. Shepperd. 1999. Aspen restoration in the western United States. [Available online] 

http://www.fe.fed.us/rm/aspen/ [14 April 2000].

Bautista, L.M., J.T. Garcia, R.G. Calmaestra, C. Palacin, C.A. Martin, M.B. Morales, R. Bonal, and J. 

Vinuela. 2004. Effect of weekend road traffic on the use of space by raptors. Conservation 

Biology 18 (3): 726-732. 

Belnap, J. 1993. Recovery Rates of Cryptobiotic Crusts: Inoculant Use and Assessment Methods. Great 

Basin Naturalis 53(1):89-95. 

Belnap, J. 1995. Surface Disturbances: Their Role in Accelerating Desertification. Environmental 

Monitoring and Assessment 37:39-57. 

Belnap, J. 2002. Impacts of off-road vehicles on nitrogen cycles in biological soil crusts: resistance in 

different U.S. deserts. Journal of Arid Environments 52:155-165. 

Bentz, B. 2008. Western US Bark Beetles and Climate Change. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest 

Service, Climate Change Resource Center.

Bergerson, Terry and Sean Loughran. 2005. Oregon Trails 2005-2014: Motorized Trails Plan, 

(http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/PLANS/docs/trails/StatewideTrailsPlanFinal.pdf) Accessed 

1/15/2009. 

Berry, K.H., T. Shields, A.P. Woodman, T. Campbell, J. Robertson, K. Bohuski, and A. Karl. 1986. 

Changes in desert tortoise populations at the Desert Tortoise Research Natural Area between 

1979 and 1985, Desert Tortoise Council proceedings of symposium 10 1986, Palmdale, 

California, March 22-24, 1986: Desert Tortoise Council, p. 100-123 IN: Ouren, D.S., C. Haas, 

C.P. Melcher, S.C. Stewart, P.D. Ponds, N.R. Sexton, L. Burris, T. Fancher, and Z.H. Bowen. 

2007. Environmental effects of off-highway vehicles on Bureau of Land Management lands: A 

literature synthesis, annotated bibliographies, extensive bibliographies, and internet resources: 

U.S. Geological Survey, Open-File Report 2007-1353. 225 pp.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 411

Beschta R.L., R.E. Bilby, G.W Brown, L.B. Holtby, & T.D. Hofstra, 1987. Stream temperatures and 

aquatic habitat: fisheries and forestry interaction. Pages 191-232 in: Salo, E.O.; Cudy, T.W., eds. 

Forestry and fisheries interactions. Contribution 57. Seattle, WA: University of Washington 

Institute of Forest Resources.

Bisson, P. 2008. Salmon and trout in the Pacific Northwest and Climate Change. U.S. Department of 

Agriculture, Forest Service, Climate Change Resource Center. 

http://www.fs.fed.us/ccrc/topics/salmon-trout.shtml. June

Blate, G.M, Joyce, L.A., Littell, S.G., McNulty, C.I., Moser, S.C., Neilson, R.P., O’Halloran, K., and

D.L. Peterson. 2009 Adapting to climate change in United States national forests. Unasylva 

231/232. Vol. (60) pp57-62 

Bolling, J.D. and L.R. Walker. 2000. Plant and soil recovery along a series of abandoned desert roads. 

Journal of Arid Environments 46: 1-24. 

Botkin, D., Saxe, H., Arujo, M., Betts, R., Bradshaw, T., Chesson, P., Dawson, T., Etterson, J., Faith, D., 

Ferrier, S., Hansen, A., Hilbert, D., Loehle, C., Margules, C., New, M., Sobel, M., and Stockwell, 

D. 2007. Forecasting the Effects of Global Warming on Biodiversity. BioScience 57(3) pp 227 – 

236 

Branch, L.C., D.G. Hokit, and B.M. Smith. 1996. Landscape dynamics and Florida scrub lizards: 

assessing the effects of landscape structure on populations at multiple scales. Final Report, RWO 

122, Biological Resources Division, USDI, Washington D.C. IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of 

recreation on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife 

Society.

Brattstrom, B.H. and M.C. Bondello. 1983. Effects of off-road vehicle noise on desert vertebrates. IN: 

Webb, R.H. and H.G. Wilshire, eds., Environmental effects of off-road vehicles – Impacts and 

management in arid regions. New York, Springer-Verlag. Pp. 167-206. 

Broderson, J.M. 1973. Sizing of buffer strips to maintain water quality. M.S. thesis. University of 

Washington, Seattle, Washington

Brooks, M.L. and B. Lair. 2005. Ecological Effects of Vehicular Routes in a Desert Ecosystem. Report 

prepared for the U.S. Geological Survey, Recoverability and Vulnerability of Desert Ecosystems 

Program. http://geography.wr.usgs.gov/mojave/rvde

Bruner, H. 1997. Habitat use and productivity of Harlequin Ducks in the central Cascade Range of 

Oregon. M.S. Thesis, Oregon State University, Corvallis. IN: Marshall, D.B., M.G. Hunter, and 

A.L. Contreras, Eds. 2003. Birds of Oregon: A General Reference. Oregon State University Press, 

Corvallis, OR. 768 pp.

Bull et al. 1988. Nesting and foraging habitat of Great Gray Owls in northeastern Oregon IN USDA 

Forest Service. Flammulated, Boreal, and Great Gray Owls in the United States: A Technical 

Conservation Assessment. General Technical Report RM-253. Rocky Mountain Forest and Range 

Experiment Station. 

Bull, E.L. 2005. Ecology of the spotted frog in northeastern Oregon. Gen. Tech. Rep. Pacific Northwest 

Research Station, USDA Forest Service, LaGrande, Oregon.

Bull, E.L. and M.G. Henjum. 1990. Ecology of the Great Gray Owl IN USDA Forest Service. 

Flammulated, Boreal, and Great Gray Owls in the United States: A Technical Conservation 

Assessment. General Technical Report RM-253. Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment 

Station. 
References

412 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Bull, E.L. and M.P. Hayes. 2000. Livestock effects on reproduction of the Columbia spotted frog. Journal 

of Range Management 53: 291-294. 

Bull, E.L. and M.P. Hayes. 2001. Post-breeding season movements of Columbia spotted frogs (Rana 

luteiventris) in northeastern Oregon. Western North American Naturalist 61(1):119-123. 

Burke, T.A., Applegarth, J.S. and T.R. Weasma, N. Duncan ed. 1999. Management Recommendations for 

Survey and Manage Terrestrial Mollusks. Version 2.0.

Bursell, Neal. 10 October 2008. Communication with Malcolm Hamilton.

Buskirk, S.W. and R.A. Powell. 1994. Habitat ecology of fishers and American martens. IN: Buskirk, 

S.W., A.S. Harestad, M.G. Raphael, comps, eds. Martens, sables, and fishers: biology and 

conservation. Ithaca, NY: Cornell University Press: 283-296. 

Cafferath, P.H. & T.E. Spittler. 1998. Logging impacts of the 1970’s vs. the 1990’s in the Casper Creek 

watershed. USDA FS, Pacific SW Research Sta., Gen. Tech. Rpt. PSW-GTR-168-Web. P. 22.

Carey, A.B. 1995. Sciurids in Pacific Northwest managed and old-growth forests. Ecological 

Applications 5(3):648-661. 

Carey, A.B. 2000. Effects of new forest management strategies on squirrel populations. Ecological 

Applications 10(1):248-257. 

Carey, A.B., J. Kershner, B. Biswell, and L. Dominguez de Toledo. 1999. Ecological scale and forest 

development: squirrels, dietary fungi, and vascular plants in managed and unmanaged forests. 

Wildlife Monographs 142:1-71. 

Carey, A.B., T.M. Wilson, C.C. Maguire, and B.L. Biswell. 1997. Dens of northern flying squirrels in the 

Pacific Northwest. J. Wildl. Manage. 61(3):684-699. 

Carey, A.B., W. Colgan III, J.M. Trappe, and R. Molina. 2002. Effects of forest management on truffle 

abundance and squirrel diets. Northwest Science, 76(2):148-157. 

Cassier, E.F. and C.R. Groves. 1989. Breeding ecology of harlequin ducks on the Kaniksu National 

Forest. Boise, ID., Idaho Dept. of Fish and Game. Pages unknown. IN: Gaines, W.L., P.H. 

Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing the cumulative effects of linear recreation routes on 

wildlife habitats on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR586. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research 

Station. 79 pp.

CCSP 2008. Climate Change and Ecosystems, Summary of Findings. U.S. Climate Change Science 

Program. June

Chelladurai, Packianathan. 2006. Human Resource Management in Sport and Recreation, Champaign, IL: 

Human Kinetics, 2006

Christensen, J.H., B. Hewitson, A. Chen, X. Gao, I. Held, R. Jones, R.K. Kolli, W.-T. Kwon, R. Laprise, 

V. Magaña Rueda, L. Mearns, C.G. Menéndez, J. Räisänen, A. Rinke, A. Sarr, and P. Whetton. 

2007: Regional Climate Projections. In: Climate Change 2007: The Physical Science Basics. 

Contribution of Working Group I to the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental 

Panel on Climate Change [Solomon, S., D. Quin, M. Manning, Z. Chen, M. Marquis, K.B. 

Averyt, M. Tignor, and H.L. Miller (eds.)]. Cambridge University Press. Cambridge, United 

Kingdom and New York, NY, USA.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 413

Claeyssens, Paul G. 1991. A Cultural Resource Inventory Plan for the Ochoco National Forest. Report 

on file, Ochoco National Forest, Prineville, OregonClark, W.D. and J.R. Karr. 1979. Effects of 

highways on red-winged blackbird and horned lark populations. The Wilson Bulletin 91:143-145 

IN: Ouren, D.S., C. Haas, C.P. Melcher, S.C. Stewart, P.D. Ponds, N.R. Sexton, L. Burris, T. 

Fancher, and Z.H. Bowen. 2007. Environmental effects of off-highway vehicles on Bureau of 

Land Management lands: A literature synthesis, annotated bibliographies, extensive 

bibliographies, and internet resources: U.S. Geological Survey, Open-File Report 2007-1353. 225 

pp. 

Clifford, H.T. 1959. Seed Dispersal by Motor Vehicles. Journal of Ecology 47:311-315. 

Cole, E.K., M.D. Pope, and R.G. Anthony. 1997. Effects of road management on movement and survival 

of Roosevelt elk. Journal of Wildlife Management 61(4):1115-1126. 

Conrad, J.M. and P.S. Gipson. 2006. Spatial and seasonal variation in wildlife-vehicle collisions. The 

Prairie Naturalist 38(4):251-260. 

Cope, M.G. and M.T. Berger. 1992. Tracy Rock Sharp-tail Grouse and Douglas County Pygmy Rabbit 

Site Specific Management Plan Project Report by WDW for Bonneville Power Administration. 

Portland, OR.

Copeland, J.P. 1996. Biology of the wolverine in central Idaho. Master Thesis. Univ. of Idaho, Moscow. 

138 pp.

Cordell, Ken H., Carter J Betz, Gary T. Green, and Shela H Mou. Outdoor Recreation Activity Trends: 

What’s Growing, What’s Slowing? [Online] September 2008 

http://warnell.forestry.uga.edu/nrrt/nrse/IrisReports.html, Accessed 1/15/2009.

Cordell, Ken H., Carter J. Betz, Gary T. Green, and Becky Stephens. Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation in 

the United States and its Regions and States: A National Report from the National Survey on 

Recreation and the Environment (NSRE), February 2008. 

(http://warnell.forestry.uga.edu/nrrt/nsre/IRISRec/IrisRec1rpt.pdf) Accessed 1/15/2009.

Coulter, M.W. 1966. Ecology and management of fishers in Maine. Syracuse, NY: Syracuse University, 

University College of Forestry. Ph.D. thesis. 

Courtney, S.P., J.A. Blakesley, R.E. Bigley, M.L. Cody, J.P. Dumbacher, R.C. Fleischer, A.B. Franklin, 

J.F. Franklin, R.J. Gutierrez, J.M. Marzluff, and L. Sztukowski. 2004. Scientific evaluation of the 

status of the northern spotted owl. Sustainable Ecosystems Institute. Portland, OR. 

Crocker, Dave. Power Products Marketing. July 2007

Croft, Lisa, Wayne R. Owen, and J. Stephen Shelly. 1997. Interior Columbia Basin Ecosystem 

Management Project Analysis of Vascular Plants. USDA Forest Service and USDI Bureau of 

Land Management, http://www.icbemp.gov/

Csuti, B.A., A.J. Kimerling, T.A. O’Neil, M.M. Shaughnessy, E.P. Gaines, and M.M. Huso. 1997. Atlas 

of Oregon Wildlife: Distribution, Habitat, and Natural History. Oregon State University Press, 

Corvallis, OR. 492 pp.

Curtiss, Karen. 2009. Personal Communication with Lauren Miller regarding historical fire investigation 

protocols. August 19.

Cushman, K.A. and C.A. Pearl. 2007. A Conservation Assessment for the Oregon Spotted Frog (Rana

pretiosa). USDA Forest Service Region 6 and USDI Bureau of Land Management, Oregon and 

Washington. 46 pp.
References

414 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Davidson, E. and M. Fox. 1974. Effects of Off-Road Motorcycle Activity on Mojave Desert Vegetation 

and Soil Madrono 22(8):381-412. 

Delaney, D.K. and T.G. Grubb. 2001. Sound testing of motorcycle activity on the Mendocino National 

Forest. Report submitted to the State of California Department of Parks and Recreation, OffHighway Motor Vehicles Recreation Division Contract No. 4391Z9-0-0055. 

Delaney, D.K. and T.G. Grubb. 2003. Effects of Off-Highway Vehicles on Northern Spotted Owls: 2002 

Results. Report submitted to the State of California Department of Parks and Recreation, OffHighway Motor Vehicles Recreation Division Contract No. 4391Z9-0-0055. 

DeLong, J.P., and K. Steenhof. 2004. Effects of management practices on grassland birds: Prairie Falcon. 

Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center, Jamestown, ND. Pg.25.

Demaynadier, P.G. and M.L. Hunter. 1998. Effects of silvicultural edges on the distribution and 

abundance of amphibians in Maine. Conservation Biology 12:340-352. IN: Montana TWS. 1999. 

Effects of recreation on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of 

The Wildlife Society.

Denton, S.J. 1976. Status of Prairie Falcons breeding in Oregon. M.S. thesis, Oreg. State. Univ. Corvallis. 

Dewey, Rick. 2007. Conservation Assessment for Henderson’s needlegrass (Achnatherum hendersonii) 

and Wallowa needlegrass (Achnatherum wallowaensis). USDA Forest Service Region 6 and 

USDI Bureau of Land Management, Oregon and Washington.

Dewey, Rick. 2008. Conservation Strategy for Calochortus longebarbatus var. peckii. Ochoco National 

Forest, Prineville, Oregon.

Dillehay, Tom D. 1999 The late Pleistocene culures of South America, IN Evolutionary Anthropology: 

Isses, News and Reviews, Vol. 7.6. John Wiley and Sons, Inc. New York

Dimling, J. and C. McCain. 1992. Special Habitats Management Guide. Willamette National Forest, 

Eugene, Oregon.

Dixon, R.D. 1995. Density, nest-site and roost-site characteristics, home range, habitat use, and behavior 

of white-headed woodpeckers: Deschutes and Winema National Forests, Oregon. Non-game 

Project #93-3-01, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Dobkin, D.S., R.G. Gettinger, and M.G. Gerdes. 1995. Springtime movements, roost use, and foraging 

activity of Townsend’s big-eared bat (Plecotus townsendii) in central Oregon. Great Basin 

Naturalist 55(4):315-321. 

Dregne, H.E. 1983. Soil and Soil Formation in Arid Regions. Pp. 15-30, in Environmental Effects of OffRoad Vehicles: Impacts and Management in Arid Regions.

Dubois, K. and R. Hazelwood. 1987. Raptors. Pages 29-37 in Interagency Rocky Mountain Front 

Wildlife Monitoring/Evaluation Program. BLM. IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of recreation 

on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Duncan, N., T. Burke, S. Dowlan, and P. Hohenlohe. 2003. Survey Protocol for Survey and Manage 

Terrestrial Mollusk Species from the Northwest Forest Plan V3.0. U.S. Department of 

Agriculture, Region 6, Portland, OR. 70pp.

Earle, R.D. 1978. The fisher-porcupine relationship in Upper Michigan. Houghton, MI: Michigan 

Technical University. M.S. Thesis. 184 pp.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 415

Eastman, W.R. Jr. 1960. Eating of tree seeds by birds in central Oregon. Forest Res. Center, Res. Note 42. 

Corvallis. IN: Marshall, D.B., M.G. Hunter, and A.L. Contreras, Eds. 2003. Birds of Oregon: A 

General Reference. Oregon State University Press, Corvallis, OR. 768 pp.

Edelman, F. and J. Copeland. 1999. Wolverine distribution in the northwestern United States and a survey 

in the Seven Devils mountains of Idaho. Northwest Science, Vol. 73, No. 4.

Eigenbrod, F., S.J. Hecnar, and L. Fahrig. 2007. The relative effects of road traffic and forest cover on 

anuran populations. Biological Conservation 141:35-46. 

English, Donald B.K., Susan Kocis and Derek P Hales. Off-Highway Vehicle Use on National Forests: 

Volume and Characteristics of Visitors. 2004. USDA Southern Research Station. Athens, 

Georgia.

EPA 1994. Environmental Fact Sheet. Air Toxics from Motor Vehicles. Office of Transportation and Air 

Quality. EPA400-F-92-004. August. 

EPA 1995. AP-42, Compilation of Air Pollutant Emission Factors, Fifth Edition. Volume 1: Stationary 

Point and Area Sources. Chapter 13, Miscellaneous Sources. Section 13.2 Fugitive Dust Sources. 

EPA 2000. National Air Pollutant Emission trends, 1900 – 1998. Office of Air Quality Planning 

Standards. EPA-454/R-00-002 

EPA 2008. Health and Environment. Available at: http://www.epa.gov/air/particlepollution/health.html. 

Accessed on March 12, 2010

EPA 2010. National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Available at: 

http://www.epa.gov/air/criteria.html Accessed on March 20, 2010

Erbe, C., A.R. King, M. Yedlin, and D.M. Farmer. 1999. Computer models for masked hearing 

experiments with beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas). J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 105:2967-2978. 

IN: AMEC. 2005. Mackenzie Gas Project: Effects of Noise on Wildlife. AMEC Americas 

Limited.

Erdman, T.C., D.F. Brinker, and J.P. Jacobs, eds. 1998. Productivity, population trend, and status of 

northern goshawks, Accipiter gentilis, in northeastern Wisconsin. The Canadian Field Naturalist. 

IN: Gaines, W.L., P.H. Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing the cumulative effects of 

linear recreation routes on wildlife habitats on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests. 

Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-586. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, 

Pacific Northwest Research Station. 79 pp.

Etyemezian, V., Nikolie, D., Gillies, J., Kuhns, H., Seshadri, G., Veranth, J. 2003. Reconciling fugitive 

dust emissions with ambient measurements: along the unpaved road. In: Proceedings of the 12th 

International Emission Inventory Conference, Emission Inventories – Applying New 

Technologies. April 29 – May 1. Available at: www.epa.gov/ttn/chief/conference/ei/2 Accessed 

on March 11, 2010

Evanich, J. 1992. Birds of Northeast Oregon: an annotated checklist for Union and Wallowa counties, 

second ed. (revised). Oregon Field Ornithol. Spec. Pub. No. 6, Eugene. IN: Marshall, D.B., M.G. 

Hunter, and A.L. Contreras, Eds. 2003. Birds of Oregon: A General Reference. Oregon State 

University Press, Corvallis, OR. 768 pp.

Executive Order. 2001. Executive Order 13186 – Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect 

Migratory Birds. 
References

416 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Fahrig, L. 1998. Relative effects of habitat loss and fragmentation on population extinction. Journal of 

Wildlife Management 61(3):603-610 IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of recreation on Rocky 

Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Federal Register. 2007. 50 CFR 17 - Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Removing the Bald 

Eagle in the Lower 48 States from List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Draft 

Post-Delisting and Monitoring Plan for the Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) and Proposed 

Information Collection.

Federal Register. 2008. 50 CFR 17 - Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Revised 

Designation of Critical Habitat for the Northern Spotted Owl.

FEMAT, 1993. Forest Ecosystem Management: An Ecological, Economic, and Social Assessment. 600 

pp. US Government Agencies

Ferris, R.M. and M.J. Kutilek. 1989. Responses of black-tailed deer to off-highway vehicles in Hollister 

Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area, Hollister, CA. San Jose State University, Department of 

Biological Sciences, San Jose, CA. 42pp. IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of recreation on 

Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Fletcher, R.J. Jr., S.T. McKinney, and C.E. Bock. 1999. Effects of recreational trails on wintering diurnal 

raptors along riparian corridors in a Colorado grassland. Journal of Raptor Research 33(3):233-

239. 

Flood, Joseph P. 2005 Just Don’t Tell Me No: Managing OHV Recreational Use on National Forests IN 

Proceedings of the 2005 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium, Northeastern Research 

Station, USDA Forest Service, GTR-NE-341, Newton Square, Pennsylvania

Foltz, R.B., 2006. Erosion from all terrain vehicle (ATV) trails on National Forest lands. Written for 

presentation at the 2006 ASABE Annual International Meeting, Oregon Convention Center, 

Portland, Oregon, 9-12 July 2006. 10 p.

Foppen, R. and R. Reijnen. 1994. The effects of traffic on breeding bird populations in woodland: II. 

Breeding dispersal of male willow warblers in relation to the proximity of a highway. Journal of 

Applied Ecology 31:95-101. IN: Gaines, W.L., P.H. Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing 

the cumulative effects of linear recreation routes on wildlife habitats on the Okanogan and 

Wenatchee National Forests. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-586. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of 

Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 79 pp.

Forest Service Handbook 5109 14.20. Individual Fire Report Handbook. Chapter 10. Reporting Fires. 

FSH 5109.14

Forest Service Manual. 2620.5, 2630.3, 2670-2671, 2672.4

Forman, R.T. 2000. Estimate of the area affected ecologically by the road system in the United States. 

Conservation Biology 14(1):31-35. 

Forman, R.T. and L.E. Alexander. 1998. Roads and their major ecological effects. Annu. Rev. Ecol. Syst. 

29:207-231. 

Forman, R.T., D. Sperling, . J.A. Bissonette, A.P. Clevenger, C.D. Cutshall, V.H. Dale, L. Fahrig, R. 

France, C.R. Goldman, K. Heanue, J.A. Jones, F.J. Swanson, T. Turrentine, and T.C. Winter. 

2003. Road Ecology: Science and Solutions. Island Press. 481 pp. 

Forsman, E.D. and T. Bryan. 1984. Distribution, abundance, and habitat of great gray owls in southcentral 

Oregon. Murrelet 68:45-49. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 417

Fraser, J.D., L.D. Frenzel, and J.E. Mathisen. 1985. The impact of human activities on breeding bald 

eagles in north-central Minnesota. Journal of Wildlife Management 49:585-592. IN: Gaines, 

W.L., P.H. Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing the cumulative effects of linear recreation 

routes on wildlife habitats on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests. Gen. Tech. Rep. 

PNW-GTR-586. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific 

Northwest Research Station. 79 pp.

Frenzel, R.W. 2000. Nest-sites, nesting success, and turnover rates of white-headed woodpeckers on the 

Deschutes and Winema National Forests, Oregon in 2000. 63 pp.

Frenzel, R.W. 2002. Nest-sites, nesting success, and turnover rates of white-headed woodpeckers on the 

Deschutes and Winema National Forests, Oregon in 2002. 56 pp.

Frenzel, R.W. 2003. Nest-sites, nesting success, and turnover rates of white-headed woodpeckers on the 

Deschutes and Winema National Forests, Oregon in 2003. 49 pp.

Gabrielson, I.N. and S.G. Jewett. 1940. Birds of Oregon. Oregon State College, Corvallis, OR. IN: 

Marshall, D.B., M.G. Hunter, and A.L. Contreras, Eds. 2003. Birds of Oregon: A General 

Reference. Oregon State University Press, Corvallis, OR. 768 pp.

Gaines, W.L., P.H. Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing the cumulative effects of linear recreation 

routes on wildlife habitats on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests. Gen. Tech. Rep. 

PNW-GTR-586. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific 

Northwest Research Station. 79 pp.

Gelbard, J.L. and J. Belnap. 2003. Roads as Conduits for Exotic Plant Invasions in a Semiarid 

Landscape. Conservation Biology 17(2):420-432. 

Gibbs, J.P. 1998. Amphibian movements in response to forest edges, roads, and streambeds in southern 

New England. Journal of Wildlife Management 62(2):584-589 IN: Ouren, D.S., C. Haas, C.P. 

Melcher, S.C. Stewart, P.D. Ponds, N.R. Sexton, L. Burris, T. Fancher, and Z.H. Bowen. 2007. 

Environmental effects of off-highway vehicles on Bureau of Land Management lands: A 

literature synthesis, annotated bibliographies, extensive bibliographies, and internet resources: 

U.S. Geological Survey, Open-File Report 2007-1353. 225 pp.

Gill, T., Zobeck, T., Stout, J., and Gregory, J. 2007. Fugitive dust generation in the laboratory. In: 

Proceedings of Wind Erosion: An International Symposium/Workshop. USDA ARS Wind 

Erosion Research at Kansas State University. Available at: 

http://www.weru.ksu.edu/symposium/index.htm Accessed on March 12, 2010.

Gillies, J., Etyemezian, V., Kuhns, H., Nikolie, D., and Gillette, D. 2005. Effect of vehicle characteristics 

on unpaved road dust emissions. Atmospheric Environment (39) 2341-2347 

Gilligan, J., M. Smith, D. Rogers, and A. Contreras. 1994. Birds of Oregon: status and distribution. 

Cinclus Publ., McMinnville, OR. IN: Marshall, D.B., M.G. Hunter, and A.L. Contreras, Eds. 

2003. Birds of Oregon: A General Reference. Oregon State University Press, Corvallis, OR. 768 

pp. 

Goggans, R. and M. Platt. 1992. Breeding season observations of great gray owls on the Willamette 

National Forest, Oregon. Oregon Birds 18:35-41. 

Goggans, R., R.D. Dixon, and L.C. Seminara. 1989. Habitat use by three-toed and black-backed 

woodpeckers, Deschutes National Forest, Oregon. Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, 

Nongame Wildlife Program, Tech. Rep. #87-3-02. 43pp.
References

418 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Gonthier, Joseph B., 1985, "A Description of Aquifer Units in Eastern Oregon," U.S. Geological Survey 

Water-Resources Investigations Report 84-4095, 39 pages.

Goosens, D. and Buck, B. 2009. Dust emissions by off-road driving: Experiments on 17 arid soil types, 

Nevada, USA. Geomorphology (107) 118 – 138 

Grace, J., Berninger, F., and Nagy, L. 2002. Annals of Botany. Vol 90 pp 537-544 

Grace, J.M. and B.D. Clinton, 2006. Forest road management to protect soil and water. Paper number 

068010, 2006 Amer. Soc. of Ag & Bio. Eng. (ASAE) Annual Meeting. 

Green, D.M., H. Kaiser, T.F. Sharbel, J. Kearsley, and K.R. McAllister. 1997. Cryptic species of spotted 

frogs, Rana pretiosa complex, in western North America. Copeia 1997:1-8. 

Greenberg, C.H., S.H. Crownover, and D.R. Gordon. 1997. Roadside Soils: A Corridor for Invasion of 

Xeric Scrub by Nonindigenous Plants. Natural Areas Journal 17(2):99-109. 

Gregg, Monty. 2007. Personal Communication. April 2007.

Groom, J.D., L.B. McKinney, L.C. Ball, and C.S. Winchell. 2006. Quantifying off-highway vehicle 

impacts on density and survival of a threatened dune-endemic plant. Biological Conservation 

135:119-134. 

Grubb, T.G. and R.M. King. 1991. Assessing human disturbance of breeding bald eagles with 

classification tree models. Journal of Wildlife Management 55:500-511. 

Grubb, T.G., L.L. Pater, and D.K. Delaney. 1998. Logging truck noise near nesting northern goshawks. 

Res. Note RMRS-RN-3. Fort Collins, CO: USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research 

Station. 2 p. IN: Gaines, W.L., P.H. Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing the cumulative 

effects of linear recreation routes on wildlife habitats on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National 

Forests. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-586. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest 

Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 79 pp.

Gruver, J.C. and D.A. Keinath. 2006. Townsend’s Big-eared Bat (Corynorhinus townsendii): A Technical 

Conservation Assessment. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Region. Available: 

http://www.fs.fed.us/r2/projects/scp/assessments/townsendsbigearedbat.pdf

Hagar, J. and G. Lienkaemper. 2007. Pygmy rabbit surveys on state lands in Oregon. US Geological 

Survey Open File Report 2007-1015. 23 pp.

Haggard, M. and W.L. Gaines. 2001. Effects of stand-replacement fire and salvage logging on a cavitynesting bird community in eastern Cascades, Washington. Northwest Science 57(4):387-396. 

Hall, F.C. 1998. Pacific Northwest Ecoclass Codes for Seral and Potential Natural Communities. USDA 

Forest Service Pacific Northwest Research Station, General Technical Report PNW-GTR-418. 

Hamann, B., H. Johnston, and P. McClelland, [et al.]. 1999. Birds. IN: Joslin, G. and H. Youmans, cords. 

Effects of recreation on Rocky Mountain wildlife: a review for Montana. Helena, MT. Committee 

on effects of recreation on wildlife, Montana Chapter of the Wildlife Society, 3.1-3.34 IN: 

Gaines, W.L., P.H. Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing the cumulative effects of linear 

recreation routes on wildlife habitats on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests. Gen. 

Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-586. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, 

Pacific Northwest Research Station. 79 pp.

Hanes, Richard. 2008. Draft Travel Management and the National Historic Preservation Act. Paper on 

File Pacific Northwest Regional Office, USDA Forest Service, Portland, Oregon.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 419

Hart, M.M., W.A. Williams, P.C. Thornton, K.P. McLaughlin, C.M. Tobalske, B.A. Maxwell, D.P. 

Hendricks, C.R. Peterson, and R.L. Redmond. 1998. Montana atlas of terrestrial vertebrates. 

Montana Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, the University of Montana. Missoula, MT. 1302 

pp. IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of recreation on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A review for 

Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Haug, E.A., B.A. Millsap, and M.S. Martell. 1993. Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia), The Birds of 

North America Online (A. Poole, ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Available: 

http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/bna/species/061Doi:10:2173/bna.61 

Haupt, H.F. and W.J. Kidd, 1965. Good logging practices reduce sedimentation in central Idaho. Journal 

of Forestry. 63:664-670. 

Heade, B.H. 1990. Vegetation strips contraol erosion in watersheds. Rocky Mtn. Forest and Range 

Experiment Station. Research Note RM-499. 5p.

Hejl, S. and M. McFadzen. 2000. Maintaining fire-associated bird species across forest landscapes in the 

northern Rockies. Summary Report. Missoula, MT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest 

Service, Intermountain Research Station. 14p.

Helms, John. 1998. The Dictionary of Forestry. 224 p. Online version available at: 

http://www.dictionaryofforestry.org/

Hennings, Kristopher. Personal Communication. April 2007.

Hickman, S. 1990. Evidence of edge species attraction to nature trails within deciduous forest. Natural 

Areas Journal 10:3-5 IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of recreation on Rocky Mountain 

Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Holmes, T.L., R.L. Knight, L. Stegall, and G.R. Craig. 1993. Responses of wintering grassland raptors to 

human disturbance. Wildlife Society Bulletin 21:461-468. IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of 

recreation on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife 

Society.

Hornocker, M.G. and H.S. Hash. 1981. Ecology of the wolverine in northwestern Montana. Can. J. Zool. 

59:1286-1301. 

Hossack, B.R. and P.S. Corn. 2007. Responses of pond breeding amphibians to wildfire: short-term 

patterns in occupancy and colonization. Ecological Applications 17(5): 1403-1410. 

Houser, Michael 1996 Prehistoric Context Statement for Deschutes County, Oregon. Report on File, 

Deschutes County, Bend, Oregon

Hutto, R.L. 1995. Composition of bird communities following stand replacement fires in northern Rocky 

Mountain conifer forests. Conservation Biology 9(5): 1041-1058. 

Hutto, R.L. 1996. An investigation of the potential threat of habitat fragmentation on some Northern 

region bird species. Final report for contract #53-0343-2-00207, Northern Region, Missoula, 

Montana. Institute for Wildlife Research National Wildlife Federation Scientific Technical 

Service No. 11 IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of recreation on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A 

review for Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Ingram, R. 1973. Wolverine, fisher, and marten in central Oregon. Oregon State Game Commission 

Report No. 73-2. 
References

420 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Interior Columbia Basin Ecosystem Management Project. 2000. USDA Forest Service and USDI Bureau 

of Land Management, http://www.icbemp.gov/

Jackman, S.M. and J.M. Scott. 1975. Literature Review of Twenty-three Selected Forest Birds of the 

Pacific Northwest. USDA Forest Service, Region 6. 382 pp.

Jaeger, J.A.G., J. Bowman, J. Brennan, L. Fahrig, D. Bert, J. Bouchard, N. Charbonneau, K. Frank, B. 

Gruber, and K. Tluk von Toschanowitz. 2005. Predicting when animal populations are at risk 

from roads: an interactive model of road avoidance behavior. Ecological Modeling 185:329-348 

IN: McGregor, R.L., D.J. Bender, and L. Fahrig. 2008. Do small mammals avoid roads because 

of traffic? Journal of Applied Ecology 45:117-123. 

James, T.D., D.W. Smith, E.E. Mackintosh, M.K. Hoffman, and P. Monti, 1979. Effects of camping 

recreation on soil, Jack pine, and understory vegetation in a northwestern Ontario park. Forest 

Science, Vol. 25, No. 2, 1 June 1979. p. 333-349. 

Johnsgard P.A. 1990. Hawks, eagles, and falcons of North America. Smithsonian Institute Press, 

Washington D.C. Pp.323-328. 

Johnson, B.K., J.W. Kern, and M.J. Wisdom [et al.]. 2000. Resource selection and spatial separation of 

mule deer and elk during spring. Journal of Wildlife Management 64(3):685-697. IN: Gaines, 

W.L., P.H. Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing the cumulative effects of linear recreation 

routes on wildlife habitats on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests. Gen. Tech. Rep. 

PNW-GTR-586. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific 

Northwest Research Station. 79 pp.

Jones, S. 1979. Habitat management series for unique or endangered species. Report No. 17. Tech Note 

335. The accipiters: goshawk, Cooper’s hawk, sharp-shinned hawk. Denver, CO. USDI, BLM. 51 

pp. IN: Gaines, W.L., P.H. Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing the cumulative effects of 

linear recreation routes on wildlife habitats on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests. 

Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-586. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, 

Pacific Northwest Research Station. 79 pp.

Jones, S.L. and J.E. Cornely. 2002. Vesper Sparrow (Pooecetes gramineus), The Birds of North America 

Online (A. Poole, ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Available: 

http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/bna/species/624 doi:10.2173/bna.624

Joslin, G. and H. Youmans, coordinators. 1999. Effects of recreation on Rocky Mountain wildlife: A 

review for Montana. Committee on Effects of Recreation on Wildlife, Montana Chapter of The 

Wildlife Society. 307 pp.

Joyce, L. Blate, G., Littell, S., McNulty, C., Millar, C., Moser, S., Neilson, R., O’Halloran, K., and D. 

Peterson. 2008. National Forests In: Preliminary Review of Adaptation Options for ClimateSensitive Ecosystems and Resources. A Report by the US Climate Change Science Program and 

the Subcommittee on Global Change Research. Synthesis and Assessment Product 4.4. [Julious, 

S., West, J. (eds), Baron, J., Griffith, L., Joyce, L., Kareiva, B., Palmer, M., Peterson, C., and 

Scott, J. (Authors)]. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington DC, USA. pp19 - 84 

Kagan, J.S., J.C. Hak, B. Csuti, C.W. Kiilsgaard, and E.P. Gaines. 1999. Oregon gap analysis project final 

report: a geographic approach to planning for biological diversity. Oregon Nat. Heritage Prog., 

Portland, OR. IN: Marshall, D.B., M.G. Hunter, and A.L. Contreras, Eds. 2003. Birds of Oregon: 

A General Reference. Oregon State University Press, Corvallis, OR. 768 pp.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 421

Kaseloo, P.A. 2006. Synthesis of noise effects on wildlife populations. IN: Proceedings of the 2005 

International Conference on Ecology and Transportation, Eds. Irwin, C.L., P. Garrett, and K.P. 

McDermott. Center for Transportation and the Environment, North Carolina State University, 

Raleigh, NC: pp. 33-35.

Kay, J. 1981. Evaluating Environmental Impacts of Off-Road Vehicles. Journal of Geography 80(1): 10-

18. 

Kelly, G.M. 1977. Fisher (Martes pennanti) biology in the White Mountain National Forest and adjacent 

areas. Amherst, MA: University of Massachusetts. Ph.D. thesis. 178 p. 

Kelly, L.M. 1992. The effects of human disturbance on common loon productivity in northwestern 

Montana. Bozeman, MT. Montana State University. 65 pp. MS. Thesis. IN: Gaines, W.L., P.H. 

Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing the cumulative effects of linear recreation routes on 

wildlife habitats on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR586. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research 

Station. 79 pp.

Kenedi, C., Brantley, Hendley II, and Stauffer. 2000. Volcanic Ash Fall—A "Hard Rain" of Abrasive 

Particles. USGS Fact Sheet 027-00. 

Knapp, P.A. 1991. The response of semi-arid vegetation assemblages following the abandonment of 

mining towns in south-western Montana. Journal of Arid Environments 20: 205-222. 

Knight, R.L. and J.Y. Kawashima. 1993. Response of raven and red-tailed hawk populations to linear 

right-of-ways. Journal of Wildlife Management 57(2):265-271. IN: Ouren, D.S., C. Haas, C.P. 

Melcher, S.C. Stewart, P.D. Ponds, N.R. Sexton, L. Burris, T. Fancher, and Z.H. Bowen. 2007. 

Environmental effects of off-highway vehicles on Bureau of Land Management lands: A 

literature synthesis, annotated bibliographies, extensive bibliographies, and internet resources: 

U.S. Geological Survey, Open-File Report 2007-1353. 225 pp.

Knight, R.L. and K.J. Gutzwiller. 1995. Wildlife and Recreationists: Coexistence through Management 

and Research. Island Press. Washington D.C.

Kocis, S. M., English, D. B. K., Zarnoch, S. J., Arnold, R., Warren, L., & Ruka, C. 2004. National Visitor 

Use Monitoring Results: Mount Hood National Forest (pp. 26). Washington, DC: USDA Forest 

Service. Available online at: http://www.fs.fed.us/recreation/programs/nvum/ 

Kovalichik, B.L. 1987. Riparian zone associations, Deschutes, Ochoco, Fremont, and Winema National 

Forests. USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Region, Region 6 Ecology Technical Paper 

279-87. 

Krausman, P.R., J. Avey, C.F. Brown, P.K. Devers, J.C. Tull, B.D. Jansen, and J.W. Cain III. 2006. 

Distances moved by startled desert mule deer. The Southwest Naturalist 51(3):436-439. 

Kutiel, P., E.Eden, and Y. Zheveley. 2000. Effect of experimental trampling and off-road motorcycle 

traffic on soil and vegetation of stabilized coastal dunes, Israel. Environmenal Conservation 

27(1):14-23. 

Laan, R. and B. Verboom. 1990. Effects of pool size and isolation on amphibian communities. Biological 

Conservation 54:251-262 IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of recreation on Rocky Mountain 

Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Lebow, Clayton et al. 1991 A Cultural Resource Overview Update for the Prineville District, Bureau of 

Land Management. Report on file, Prineville District, BLM, Prineville, Oregon
References

422 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Lehmkuhl, J.F., K.D. Kistler, J.S. Begley, and J. Boulanger. In Draft 2004. Demography of northern 

flying squirrels informs ecosystem management of western interior forests. Submitted to 

Ecological Applications 10/2004.

Lehmkuhl, J.F., L.E. Gould, E. Cazares, and D.R. Hosford. 2004. Truffle abundance and mycophagy by 

northern flying squirrels in eastern Washington forests. Forest Ecology and Management 200:49-

65. 

Leonard, W.P., H.A. Brown, L.L.C. Jones, K.R. McAllister, R.M. Storm. 1993. Amphibians of 

Washington and Oregon. Seattle Audubon Society, The Trailside Series. Seattle, Washington.

Lesko, M. 2009. Personal communication. Botanist, Lookout Mt. District, Ochoco National Forest, 

Prineville, Oregon.

Lite, Kenneth E., and M. Gannett. 2002. Upper Deschutes Groundwater Study (see geology report), 

“Geologic Framework of the Regional Ground-Water Flow System in the Upper Deschutes 

Basin, Oregon”, USGS, Water-Resources Investigations Report 02-4015, 44 pg.

Lonsdale, W.M. and A.M. Lane. 1994. Tourist vehicles as vectors of weed seeds in Kakadu National 

Park, Northern Australia. Biological Conservation 69:277-283. 

Lovich, J.E. and D. Bainbridge. 1999. Anthropogenic Degradation of the Southern California Desert 

Ecosystem and Prospects for Natural Recovery and Restoration. Environmental Management 

24(3):309-326. 

Lundsten, S. and K.J. Popper. 2002. Breeding ecology of yellow rails at Fourmile Creek, Wood River 

Wetland, Mares Egg Spring, and additional areas in southern Oregon, 2001. Unpubl. Rep. to 

Lakeview BLM, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Klamath Falls, and Chiloquin Ranger District, 

U.S. Forest Service.

Lyon, L.J. 1979. Habitat effectiveness for elk as influenced by roads and cover. Journal of Forestry 

79:658-660. 

Lyren, L. 2001. Movement patterns of coyotes and bobcats relative to roads and underpasses in the Chino 

Hills area of southern California: Pomona, California, California State Polytechnic University, 

Pomona. 127 pp.

Magill, A.W., 1970. Five California campgrounds ... conditions improve after 5 years’ recreational use. 

Pacific SW Forest and Range Exp. Stn., USDA Forest Service Resource Paper PSW-62. 24 p. 

Magoun, A.J. and J.P. Copeland. 1998. Characteristics of wolverine reproductive dens. Journal of 

Wildlife Management 62(4):1313-1320. 

Manning, R.E. 1979. Impacts of Recreation on Riparian Soils and Vegetation. Water Resources Bulletin – 

American Water Resources Association. Vol. 15, No. 1, February 1979, pp 30-43. 

Marcum, C.L. and W.D. Edge. 1991. Sexual differences in distribution of elk relative to roads and logged 

areas in Montana. In: Proceedings Elk Vulnerability Symposium, eds., A.G. Christiansen, L.J. 

Lyon, and T.N. Lonner, 142-148. Montana State University, Bozeman, MT.

Markham, B.J. and S.H. Brechtel. 1979. Status and management of three colonial waterbirds in Alberta. 

Proceedings of the Colonial Waterbird Group 2:55-64. IN: Gaines, W.L., P.H. Singleton, and 

R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing the cumulative effects of linear recreation routes on wildlife habitats 

on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-586. Portland, 

OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 79 pp.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 423

Marshall, D.B., M.G. Hunter, and A.L. Contreras, Eds. 2003. Birds of Oregon: A General Reference. 

Oregon State University Press, Corvallis, OR. 768 pp.

Maser, Z., C. Maser, and J.M. Trappe. 1985. Food habits of the northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys 

sabrinus) in Oregon. Can. J. Zool. 63:1084-1088. 

Mazerolle, M.J. 2004. Amphibian road mortality in response to nightly variations in traffic intensity. 

Herpetologica 60(1): 45-53. 

Mazurek, M.J. 2004. A maternity roost of Townsend’s big-eared bats (Corynorhinus townsendii) in coast 

redwood basal hollows in northeastern California. Northwestern Naturalist 85:60-62. 

McGarigal, K. 1988. Human-eagle interactions on the lower Columbia River. MS Thesis, Oregon State 

University, Corvallis, OR. 115 pp. IN: Gaines, W.L., P.H. Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. 

Assessing the cumulative effects of linear recreation routes on wildlife habitats on the Okanogan 

and Wenatchee National Forests. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-586. Portland, OR: U.S. 

Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 79 pp.

McGregor, R.L., D.J. Bender, and L. Fahrig. 2008. Do small mammals avoid roads because of traffic? 

Journal of Applied Ecology 45:117-123. 

McKelvey, K.F., and K.B. Aubry 2001. 06/12/01 Response to U.S.F.W.S. white paper Management of 

Canada Lynx in the Cascades Geographic Areas of Oregon and Washington. 4p.

Merriam, L.C. and C.K. Smith, 1974. Visitor impact on newly developed campsites in the Boundary 

Waters Canoe Area. Journal of Forestry, Vol. 72, No. 10, 1 Oct. 1974. p. 627-630. 

Miller, S.G., R.L. Knight, and C.K. Miller. 1998. Influence of recreational trails on breeding bird 

communities. Ecological Applications 8:162-169. IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of recreation 

on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Mills, L.S. 1995. Edge effects and isolation: red-backed voles on forest remnants. Conservation Biology 

9(2):395-403. 

Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. 2005. Montana’s Comprehensive Fish and Wildlife Conservation 

Strategy. 1420 East Sixth Ave., Helena, MT. 

Moore, K.R. and C.J. Henny. 1983. Nest site characteristics of three coexisting accipiter hawks in 

northeastern Oregon. Raptor Research 17(3):65-76. 

Moore, R.L. 1994. Conflicts on Multiple-Use Trails: Synthesis of the Literature and State of the Practice. 

Report No. FHWA-PD-94-031. Washington, D.C.: Federal Highway Administration.

Morgan, M. 1989. Health risks from slash fire smoke. In: The Burning Decision – Regional Perspectives 

on Slash. University of Washington College of Forest Resources. Seattle, WA. pp 226-236 

Morin, X. and Thuiller, W. 2009. Comparing niche- and process-based models to reduce prediction 

uncertainty in species range shifts under climate change. Ecology 90(5) pp 1301 – 1313 

Mumme, R.L., S.J. Schoech, G.W. Woolfenden, and J.W. Fitzpatrick. 2000. Life and death in the fast 

lane – Demographic consequences of road mortality in the Florida scrub jay. Conservation 

Biology 14(2):501-512. IN: Ouren, D.S., C. Haas, C.P. Melcher, S.C. Stewart, P.D. Ponds, N.R. 

Sexton, L. Burris, T. Fancher, and Z.H. Bowen. 2007. Environmental effects of off-highway 

vehicles on Bureau of Land Management lands: A literature synthesis, annotated bibliographies, 

extensive bibliographies, and internet resources: U.S. Geological Survey, Open-File Report 2007-

1353. 225 pp.
References

424 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

National Biological Information Infrastructure (NBII). 2008. Reston, Virginia. Available 

http://www.nbii/gov. 

NatureServe. 2004. Nature Serve Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 

1.8. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. 

NatureServe. 2005. Nature Serve Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 

1.8. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. 

NatureServe. 2008. Nature Serve Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 

1.8. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. 

NatureServe. 2009. Nature Serve Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 

1.8. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available http://www.natureserve.org/explorer. 

Noss, R.F. and A.Y. Cooperrider. 1994. Saving Nature’s Legacy: Protecting and Restoring Biodiversity. 

Island Press. Washington D.C.

NWCG 2001. Smoke Management Guide for Prescribed Fire and Wildland Fire. 2001 Edition. National 

Wildfire Coordination Group. PMS 420-2. NFES 1279. December.

NWCG 2005. Wildfire Origin & Cause Determination Handbook. National Wildfire Coordinating Group 

Handbook 1. PMS 412-1. NFES 1874. May. pp. 109.

OAR 340 200. Oregon Administrative Rules, Department of Environmental Quality, Division 200. 

General Air Pollution Procedures and Definitions. Available at: 

http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/rules/number_index.html 

OAR 340 204. Oregon Administrative Rules, Department of Environmental Quality, Division 204. 

Designation of Air Quality Areas. Available at: 

http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/rules/number_index.html

OAR 629 048. Oregon Administrative Rules. Department of Forestry, Division 48. Smoke Management. 

Available at: http://arcweb.sos.state.or.us/rules/OARS_600/OAR_629/629_048.html

Opdam, P. and Wascher, D. 2004. Climate change meets habitat fragmentation: linking landscape and 

biogeographical scale levels in research and conservation. Biological Conservation Vol 117. Pp 

285-297 

OPRD 2009. The Official Handbook of OHV Oregon Laws and Rules. Oregon Parks and Recreation 

Department. Available at: http://www.oregon.gov/OPRD/ATV/ATV_Publications.shtml

Accessed on: August 17, 2009.

Oregon Blue Book County Profiles (http://bluebook.state.or.us/local/counties/counties.htm

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2006. Oregon Conservation Strategy. Oregon Department of 

Fish and Wildlife, Salem, OR.

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. 2008. Preliminary assessment of mule deer/vehicle collisions on 

Highway 97 and 31 in central Oregon from October 2005-July 2008. Oregon Dept. of Fish and 

Wildlife, Salem, OR. 10 pp.

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Personnal Communication. January 28, 2010.

Oregon Natural Heritage Program. 2001. Rare, Threatened, and Endangered Species of Oregon, Oregon 

Natural Heritage Program, Portland, OR.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 425

Oregon Revised Statute 477.013. Oregon Department of Forestry. Smoke Management Plan. Available 

at: http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/FIRE/SMP/477013.shtml

OSB (Ocean Studies Board). 2003. Ocean noise and marine mammals. National Research Council, 

Division on Earth and Life Studies. The National Academies Press, Washington, DC. IN: 

AMEC. 2005. Mackenzie Gas Project: Effects of Noise on Wildlife. AMEC Americas Limited.

Ouren, D.S., C. Haas, C.P. Melcher, S.C. Stewart, P.D. Ponds, N.R. Sexton, L.Burris, T. Fancher, and 

Z.H. Bowen. 2007. Environmental Effects of Off-Highway Vehicles on Bureau of Land 

Management Lands: A Literature Synthesis, Annotated Bibliographies, Extensive Bibliographies, 

and Internet Resources. U.S. Geological Survey, Open-File Report 2007-1353, 225 p.

Padget, P. 2006. Monitoring fugitive dust emissions from off-highway vehicles traveling on unpaved 

roads: a quantitative technique. Final Report to the San Dimas Technology Center. August. 

Appendix C. pp 95-107 

Pajutee, M. 2008. Species Conservation Strategy Update for Peck’s Penstemon (Penstemon peckii). 

Sisters District, Deschutes National Forest, Sisters, Oregon.

Parendes, L.A. and J.A. Jones. 2000. Role of Light Availability and Dispersal in Exotic Plant Invasion 

along Roads and Streams in the H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest, Oregon. Conservation 

Biology 14(1):64-75. 

Parker, P.E. & G.F. Christensen, 1964. Guides for controlling sediment from secondary logging roads. 

USDA Forest Service Int. For. & Range Exp. Sta., Ogden, UT & Region 1, Missoula, MT.

Pearl, C.A. and M.P. Hayes. 2004. Habitat associations of the Oregon spotted frog (Rana pretiosa): a 

literature review. Final Report. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Olympia, 

Washington.

Pearl, C.A., M.J. Adams, and W.H. Wente. 2007. Characteristics of Columbia spotted frogs (Rana

luteiventris) oviposition sites in northeastern Oregon, USA. Western North American Naturalist 

67(1): 86-91. 

Pearson, O.P., M.P. Koford, and A.K. Pearson. 1952. Reproduction of the lump-nosed bat (Corynorhinus 

rafinesquei) in California. Journal of Mammalogy 33:273-320. 

Pelren, E.C. 1996. Blue grouse winter ecology in northeastern Oregon. Ph.D. dissertation, Oregon State 

University, Corvallis.

Perkins, M.J. 1998. 1998 Bat Surveys Final Report: Pelton Round Butte Hydroelectric Project FERC 

NO. 2030. 17pp.

Perlmeter, S. 1996. The 1996 Bat Project: Final Report. A Challenge Cost-Share Agreement between 

Stuart Perlmeter, Thurston High School, La Pine High School and the Deschutes National Forest. 

30pp. 

Perlmeter, S. 1997. The 1997 Bat Project: Final Report. A Challenge Cost-Share Agreement between 

Stuart Perlmeter, Thurston High School, La Pine High School and the Deschutes National Forest. 

23pp. 

Peterson, D. and McKenzie, D. 2008. Wildland Fire and Climate Change. U.S. Department of 

Agriculture, Forest Service, Climate Change Resource Center. 

http://www.fs.fed.us/ccrc/topics/wildland-fire.shtml. May
References

426 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Pierson, E.D. and W.E. Rainey. 1998. The distribution, status, and management of Townsend’s big-eared 

bat (Corynorhinus townsendii) in California. California Department of Fish and Game, Bird, and 

Mammal Conservation Program Report 96-7, Sacramento, CA. Available: 

http://www.nps.gov/chis/rm/PDF/PiersonTownsends1998.pdf. 

Pierson, E.D., M.C. Wackenhut, J.S. Altenbach, P.Bradley, P.Call, D. Genter, C.E. Harris, B.L. Keller, B. 

Lengus, L. Lewis, B. Luce, K.W. Navo, J.M. Perkins, S. Smith, and L. Welch. 1999. Species 

conservation assessment and strategy for Townsend’s big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii 

townsendii and Corynorhinus townsendii pallescens). Idaho Dept. Fish and Game, Boise, ID. 

Pilliod, D.S., R.B. Bury, E.J. Hyde, C.A. Pearl, and P.S. Corn. 2003. Fire and amphibians in North 

America. Forest Ecology and Management 178: 163-181. 

Pitts 2007. Ignition of Cellulosic Fuels by Heated and Radiative Surfaces. National Institute of Safety 

Technology. Technical Note 1481. Building and Fire Research Laboratory. March. pps 108.

Powell, R.A. and W.J. Zielinski. 1994. Chapter authors on Fishers. IN: Ruggerio, L.F., K.B. Aubry, S.W. 

Buskirk, L.J. Lyon, and W.J. Zielinski, tech eds. 1994. The Scientific Basis for Conserving 

Carnivores: American Marten, Fisher, Lynx and Wolverine in the Western United States. Gen. 

Tech. Rep. RM-254. Ft. Collins, CO: U.S. Dept. of Ag, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest 

and Range Experiment Station. 184 pp.

Powers, Charmane. 2008. Draft pumice grape-fern (Botrychium pumicola) Conservation Strategy. 

Deschutes National Forest, Bend, Oregon.

Prose, D.V., S.K. Metzger, and H.G. Wilshire. 1987. Effects of Substrate Disturbance on Secondary Plant 

Succession, Mojave Desert, California. Journal of Applied Ecology 24: 305-313. 

Pyle, R.M. 2002. The Butterflies of Cascadia. A Field Guide to all the Species of Washington, Oregon, 

and Surrounding Territories. Seattle Audubon Society. 420 pp.

Ramming, Vickie. Personal Communication. February 14, 2008.

Ransome, D.B. and T.P. Sullivan. 2003. Population dynamics of Glaucomys sabrinus and Tamiasciurus

hudsonicus in old-growth and second-growth stands of coastal coniferous forests. Can. J. For. 

Res. 33:587-596. 

Raphael, M.G. and L.L.C. Jones. 1997. Characteristics of resting and denning sites of American martens 

in central Oregon and western Washington. Proulx, G., H.N. Bryant, P.M. Woodard, editors. 

1997. Provincial Museum of Alberta. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Raphael, Martin G. 2008. Effects of global climate change on birds. U.S. Department of Agriculture, 

Forest Service, Climate Change Resource Center. http://www.fs.fed.us/ccrc/topics/birds.shtml. 

October

Rashin, E.B., C.J. Clishe, A.T. Loch, and J.M. Bell. 2006. Effectiveness of timber harvest practices for 

controlling sediment related water quality impacts. Journal of the American Water Resource 

Association, October 2006, p. 1307-1327. 

Reed, R. A., J. Johnson-Barnard, and W. L. Baker. 1996. Contribution of roads to forest fragmentation in 

the Rocky Mountains. Conservation Biol. 10(4): 1098-1106. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 427

Reed, W., and Organiscak, J. 2007. Haul Road Dust Control, Fugitive dust characteristics from surface 

mine haul roads and methods of control. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. 

Center for Disease Control. NIOSHTIC-2. No. 20032879. Available at: 

http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/mining/pubs/pubreference/outputid2600.htm Accessed on March 12, 

2010 

Reid, M.R. & T. Dunne, 1984. Sediment production from forest road surfaces. Water Resources 

Research, Vol. 20, No. 11, Nov. 1984, pg. 1753-1761. 

Reijnen, M.J.S.M. and J.B.M. Thissen. 1987. The effects from road traffic on breeding bird populations in 

woodland. Annual Report 1986, pp 121-132. Research Institute for Nature Management, 

Leersum.

Reijnen, R. and R. Foppen. 1994. The effects of care traffic on breeding bird populations in woodland. I. 

Evidence of reduced habitat quality for willow warblers (Phylloscopus trochilus) breeding close 

to a highway. Journal of Applied Ecology 31:85-94. 

Reijnen, R., R. Foppen, C. Ter Braak, and J. Thissen. 1995. The effects of car traffic on breeding bird 

populations in Woodland. III. Reduction of density in relation to the proximity of main roads. 

Journal of Applied Ecology 32(1):187-202. 

Reinkensmeyer, D.P. 2000. Habitat associations of bird communities in shrub-steppe and western juniper 

woodlands. M.S. Thesis, Oregon State Univ., Corvallis, OR. IN: Marshall, D.B., M.G. Hunter, 

and A.L. Contreras, Eds. 2003. Birds of Oregon: A General Reference. Oregon State University 

Press, Corvallis, OR. 768 pp.

Reynolds, R.T. 1976. Distribution and selected aspects of breeding in Oregon accipiter hawks. M.S. 

Thesis. Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR.

Reynolds, R.T., R.T. Graham, and R.M. Hildegard. 1992. Management recommendations for the northern 

goshawk in the southwestern United States. GTR-RM-217. Fort Collins, CO. USDA Forest 

Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station. 90 pp.

Reynolds, R.T., R.T. Graham, M. Hildegard Reiser, R.L. Bassett, P.L. Kennedy, D.A. Boyce Jr., G. 

Goodwin, R. Smith, and E.L. Fisher. 1991. Management Recommendations for the Northern 

Goshawk in the Southwestern United States. USDA Forest Service, Southwestern Region. 182 

pp. 

Rich, A.C., D.S. Dobkin, and L.J. Niles. 1994. Defining forest fragmentation by corridor width: the 

influence of narrow forest dividing corridors on forest nesting birds in southern New Jersey. 

Conservation Biology 8:1109-1121 IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of recreation on Rocky 

Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Ricker, et al., 2008. Spatial analysis of soil erosion and sediment fluxes: a paired watershed study of two 

Rappahanock River tributaries, Stafford County, Virginia. Journal Environmental Management, 

vol. 41, nbr. 5, May 2008. pg. 766-778. 

Riley, S.P.D., J.P. Pollinger, R.M. Sauvajot, E.C. York, C. Bromley, T.K. Fuller, and R.K. Wayne. 2006. 

A southern California freeway is a physical and social barrier to gene flow in carnivores. 

Molecular Ecology. Doi:10:1111

Rinella, D.J. and D.L. Bogan, 2003. Ecological impacts of three lower Kenai peninsula, Alaska, ATV 

stream fords. Written for Alaska Dept. of Environmental Conservation, Div. of Air & Water 

Qual. November 2003. 20 p.
References

428 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Rodgers, J.A. and H.T. Smith. 1995. Set-back distances to protect nesting bird colonies from human 

disturbance in Florida. Conservation Biology 9(1):89-99. IN: Gaines, W.L., P.H. Singleton, and 

R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing the cumulative effects of linear recreation routes on wildlife habitats 

on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-586. Portland, 

OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 79 pp.

Rosenberg, D.K. and R.G. Anthony. 1992. Characteristics of northern flying squirrel populations in 

young second- and old-growth forests in western Oregon. Can. J. Zool. 70:161-166. 

Rosenberg, D.K., K.A. Swindle, and R.G. Anthony. 1994. Habitat associations of California red-backed 

voles in young and old-growth in western Oregon. Northwest Science 68(4):266-272. 

Rosentreter, R., G.D. Hayward, and M. Wicklow-Howard. 1997. Northern flying squirrel seasonal food 

habits in the interior conifer forests of central Idaho, USA. Northwest Science, 71(2):97-102. 

Rosgen, D.L. 1994. A classification of Natural Rivers. Catena, Vol 22: 169-199. Elsevier Science, B.V. 

Amsterdam.

Rottenberry, J.T., M.A. Patten, and K.L. Preston. 1999. Brewer’s Sparrow (Spizella breweri). In: The 

birds of North America, No. 390 (A. Poole and F. Gill, eds.). The Birds of North America, Inc. 

Philadelphia, PA. IN: Marshall, D.B., M.G. Hunter, and A.L. Contreras, Eds. 2003. Birds of 

Oregon: A General Reference. Oregon State University Press, Corvallis, OR. 768 pp. 

Rowland, M.M., M.J. Wisdom, B.K. Johnson, and M.A. Penninger. 2005. Effects of roads on elk: 

Implications for management in forested ecosystems. Pages 42-52 in Wisdom, M.J., tech. ed., 

The Starkey Project: a synthesis of long-term studies on elk and mule deer. Reprinted from the 

2004 Transactions of the North American Wildlife and Natural Resource Conference, Alliance 

Communications Group, Lawrence, KS.

Rowloff, G.J. 1998. Habitat potential model for Rocky Mountain elk. IN: DeVos, J.C., Jr., ed. 

Proceedings of the 1997 elk/deer workshop. Phoenix, AZ. Arizona Game and Fish Department: 

158-175. IN: Gaines, W.L., P.H. Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing the cumulative 

effects of linear recreation routes on wildlife habitats on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National 

Forests. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-586. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest 

Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station. 79 pp.

Ruggerio, L.F., K.B. Aubry, S.W. Buskirk, L.J. Lyon, and W.J. Zielinski, tech eds. 1994. The Scientific 

Basis for Conserving Carnivores: American Marten, Fisher, Lynx and Wolverine in the Western 

United States. Gen. Tech. Rep. RM-254. Ft. Collins, CO: U.S. Dept. of Ag, Forest Service, 

Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station. 184 pp.

Ruggiero, L., McKelvey, K., Squires, J., and Block, W. 2008. Wildlife and Climate Change. U.S. 

Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Climate Change Resource Center. 

http://www.fs.fed.us/ccrc/topics/wildlife.shtml. May.

Saab, V.A. and J.G. Dudley. 1998. Responses of cavity-nesting birds to stand-replacement fire and 

salvage logging in ponderosa pine/Douglas-fir forests of southwestern Idaho. Res. Pap. RMRSRP-11. Ogden, UT: USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. 17 p.

Saab, V.A., J. Dudley, and W.L. Thompson. 2004. Factors influencing occupancy of nest cavities in 

recently burned forests. Condor 106:20-36. 

Saab, V.A., R. Brannon, J. Dudley, L. Donohoo, D. Vanderzanden, V. Johnson, and H. Lachowski. 2002. 

Selection of fire-created snags at two spatial scales by cavity-nesting birds. Gen. Tech. Rep. 

PSW-GTR-181. Pacific Southwest Research Station, USDA Forest Service. 14 pp.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 429

Sallabanks, R. 1995. Effects of wildfire on breeding bird communities in coniferous forests of Northeast 

Oregon. 1995 Annual Report to the Blue Mountains Natural Resources Institute. 44 pp.

Sauer, J.R., J.E. Hines, and J. Fallon. 2001. The North American Breeding Bird Survey, Results and 

Analysis 1966-2000. Version 2001.2, USGS Patuxent Wildlife Res. Center, Laurel, MD. 

Available: http://www.mbr-pwrc.usgs.gov/bbs/bbs.html.

Schonewald-Cox, C. and M. Buechner. 1992. Park protection and public roads. Pages 373-395 in P.L. 

Fiedler and S.K. Jain, eds. Conservation Biology: the theory and practice of nature conservation, 

preservation, and management. Chapman and Hall, New York and London IN: Montana TWS. 

1999. Effects of recreation on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana 

Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Semlitsch, R.D. 1998. Biological delineation of terrestrial buffer zones for pond breeding salamanders. 

Conservation Biology 12:1113-1119. IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of recreation on Rocky 

Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Seyedbagheri, K.A., M.L. McHenry & W.S. Platts, 1987. An annotated bibliography of the hydrology 

and fishery studies of the South Fork Salmon River. USDA FS, Intermountain Research Sta., 

General Tech. Rpt. INT-235. p. 27.

Sharp, B.E. 1992. Neotropical migrants on national forests in the Pacific Northwest: A compilation of 

existing information. USDA Forest Service, Portland, OR.

Sheley. R.L. and J.K. Petroff. 1999. Biology and Management of Noxious Rangeland Weeds. Oregon 

State University Press, Corvallis, Oregon.

Simpson, M. 2007. Forested Plant Associations of the Oregon East Cascades. USDA Forest Service 

Pacific Northwest Region Technical Paper R6-NR-ECOL-TP-03-2007. On file at Deschutes 

National Forest Supervisor’s Office, Bend, Oregon.

Simpson, Mike. 2009. Personal Communication. Ecologist, Deschutes National Forest, Bend, Oregon.

Sjogren. P. 1991. Extinction and isolation gradients in metapopulations: the case of the pool frog (Rana

lessonae). Biological Journal of the Linnean Society 42:135-147 IN: Montana TWS. 1999. 

Effects of recreation on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of 

The Wildlife Society.

Sjogren-Gulve. P. and C. Ray. 1996. Using logistic regression to model metapopulation dynamics: largescale forestry extirpates the pool frog. Pages 111-137 in D.R. McCullough editor. 

Metapopulations and wildlife conservation. Island Press, Washington, DC. IN: Montana TWS. 

1999. Effects of recreation on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A review for Montana. Montana 

Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Small, J.F. and M.L. Hunter. 1988. Forest fragmentation and avian nest predation in forested landscapes. 

Oecologia 76:62-64 IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of recreation on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: 

A review for Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Smith, B. 2009. Personal conversation with the Recreation Technician Barbara Smith on the Lookout 

Mountain Ranger District on dispersed recreational use on the Ochoco NF. April 1, 2009.

Smith, F.A. 1997. Neotoma cinerea. Mammalian Species 564:1-8. 

Stalmaster, M. 1987. The Bald Eagle. Universe Books, New York, NY. 227 pp. 
References

430 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Stalmaster, M.V. and J.R. Newman. 1978. Behavioral responses of wintering bald eagles to human 

activity. Journal of Wildlife Mgmt. 42(2):506-513. 

Stankowich, T. 2008. Ungulate flight responses to human disturbance: A review and meta-analysis. 

Biological Conservation 141:2159-2173. 

Steenhof, K. 1998. Prairie Falcon (Falco mexicanus), The Birds of North America Online (A. Poole, Ed.). 

Ithaca: Cornell Lab of Ornithology; Retrieved from the Birds of North America Online: 

http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/bna/species/346doi:10.2173/bna.346

Stynes, Daniel J and Eric M. White. 2004. Spending Profiles of National Forest Visitors, 2002 Update, 

September 2004. http://fsweb.ftcol.wo.fs.fed.us/imi/imi_implan_center_Reading.htm

Tallmon, D. and L.S. Mills. 1994. Use of logs within home ranges of California red-backed voles on a 

remnant of forest. Journal of Mammalogy 75(1):97-101. 

Taylor, R.B., 2006. The effects of off-road vehicles on ecosystems, Texas Parks and Wildlife. p. 12.

Tebaldi, C., L.O. Mearns, D. Nychka, and R. Smith, 2004: Regional probabilitites of precipitation change: 

A Bayesian analysis of multi-model simulations. Geophysical Research Letters, 31, L24213.

Tebaldi, C., R. Smith, D. Nychka, and L. O. Mearns, 2005: Quantifying uncertainty in projections of 

regional climate change: A Bayesian Approach. Journal of Climate, 18,10,1524-1540. 

Thysell, D.R., L.J. Villa, and A.B. Carey. 1997. Observations of northern flying squirrel feeding 

behavior: use of non-truffle food items. Northwestern Naturalist 78:87-92. 

Tomsfeldt, Ward and Paul G. Claeyssens. 2004. The Oregon History Project. 

http://www.ohs.org/education/oregonhistory/narratives/subtopic.cfm?subtopic_ID=381

Tout, Deb. 1989. "Mineral Potential Literature Search for the Ochoco NF"

Tyser, R.W. and C.A. Worley. 1992. Alien Flora in Grasslands Adjacent to Road and Trail Corridors in 

Glacier National Park, Montana (U.S.A.). Conservation Biology 6(2):253-262. 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, and U.S. Department of Interior. 2003. Survey and 

Manage: Fiscal Year 2003 Annual Status Report. 17pp.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1986. Recovery Plan for the Pacific Bald Eagle. U.S. Fish and Wildlife 

Service, Portland, OR. 160 pp.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1992b. Endangered and threatened wildlife and plants, determination of 

critical habitat for the northern spotted owl. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Federal Register 

57:1796-1838. 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1993. Finding on Petition to list the spotted frog. Federal Register 58: 

27260-27263. 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2002. Birds of conservation concern 2002. Division of Migratory Bird 

Management, Arlington, Virginia. 99 pp. [Online version available at 

http://migratorybirds.fws.gov/reports/bcc2002.pdf].

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2004. Northern spotted owl five year review: Summary and Evaluation. 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Portland, OR.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2004a. U.S. Shorebird Conservation Plan – 2004. High Priority 

Shorebirds – 2004. Unpublished Report. USFWS 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, MBSP 4107, Arlington, 

VA, 22203 USA. 5 pp.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 431

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2007a. Draft Recovery Plan for the Northern Spotted Owl (Strix 

occidentalis caurina). Region 1, Portland, OR.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2007b. National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2008. [Online] Species Fact Sheet: Columbia Spotted Frog (Rana

luteiventris). Last updated May 8, 2008. 

http://www.fws.gov/oregonfwo/Species/Data/ColumbiaSpottedFrog/default.asp

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2008a. Birds of Conservation Concern 2008. United States Department of 

Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service, Division of Migratory Bird Management, Arlington, Virginia. 

85 pp. [Online version available at <http://www.fws.gov/migratorybirds/>]

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 2008b. Final Recovery Plan for the Northern Spotted Owl (Strix 

occidentalis caurina). Region 1, Portland, OR.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service. 1998. Endangered Species 

Consultation Handbook, Procedures for Conducting Consultation and Conference Activities 

Under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National 

Marine Fisheries Service March 1998 Final

USDA and USDI. 1989. Facilities for Watering Livestock and Wildlife. Range Structural Equipment 

Handbook. USDA Forest Service Technology Development Center, Missoula, Montana. 71 p.

USDA and USDI. 2004a. Survey protocol for the great gray owl within the range of the Northwest Forest 

Plan. Version 3.0. Portland, Oregon. U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, and U.S. 

Fish and Wildlife Service.

USDA Forest Service and US Fish and Wildlife Service. 2008. National Memorandum of Understanding 

between the USDA Forest Service and the US FWS to promote the conservation of migratory

birds. 

USDA Forest Service. 1989a. Ochoco National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan.

USDA Forest Service. 1989b. Crooked River National Grassland Land and Resource Management Plan.

USDA Forest Service. 1990. Deschutes National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan.

USDA Forest Service. 1990b. A Conservation Strategy for the Northern Spotted Owl. Interagency 

Scientific Committee Report to address the conservation of the northern spotted owl.

USDA Forest Service. 1993. Forest Ecosystem Management: An Ecosystem, Economic, and Social 

Assessment

USDA Forest Service. 1994a. Record of Decision for Amendments to Forest Service and Bureau of Land 

Management Planning Documents Within the Range of the Northern Spotted Owl: Standards and 

Guidelines for Management of Habitat for Late-Successional and Old-Growth Forest Related 

Species within the Range of the Northern Spotted Owl.

USDA Forest Service. 1994b. Flammulated, Boreal, and Great Gray Owls in the United States: A 

Technical Conservation Assessment. General Technical Report RM-253. Rocky Mountain Forest 

and Range Experiment Station. 

USDA Forest Service. 1994c. Viable Ecosystems Management Guide. Ochoco National Forest. 

Prineville.

USDA Forest Service. 1995. Survey Protocol for the Great Gray Owl (Strix nebulosa).
References

432 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

USDA Forest Service. 1995a. Trout Creek Watershed Analysis Report USDA Forest Service Pacific 

Northwest Region Ochoco National Forest Prineville Ranger District March 1995 132 pages.

USDA Forest Service. 1996. Metolius Watershed Analysis. Sisters Ranger District, Deschutes National 

Forest, Sisters, Oregon.

USDA Forest Service. 1996a. Trail system & off-highway vehicle management and development plan. 

USDA, FS, Ochoco NF/CRNG. P. 178.

USDA Forest Service. 1996b. Northern spotted owl dispersal habitat letter. Deschutes National Forest. 

Bend, OR.

USDA Forest Service. 1997. Mill Creek Watershed Analysis. Ochoco National Forest, Prineville, 

Oregon.

USDA Forest Service. 1998a. National Interagency Fire Management Integrated Database (NIFMID). 

Technical Guide. Draft. Available at: http://www.fs.fed.us/fire/planning/nist/nifmid.pdf. 

Accessed on: August 14, 2009.

USDA Forest Service. 1998b. Integrated Weed Management Environmental Analysis. Ochoco National 

Forest and Crooked River National Grassland, Prineville, Oregon.

USDA Forest Service. 2000. Forest Service Landbird Strategic Plan. Washington, D.C. U.S. Forest 

Service.

USDA Forest Service. 2001. Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for Amendment to the 

Survey and Manage Protection Buffer, and other Mitigation Measures Standards and Guidelines. 

U.S. Dept. of Ag, Portland, OR.

USDA Forest Service. 2003a. Joint Aquatic and Terrestrial Programmatic Biological Assessment April 

2003 – April 2006 for Federal Lands within the Deschutes Basin Administered by the Bureau of 

Land Management Prineville Office and for Federal Lands Administered by the Deschutes and 

Ochoco National Forests.

USDA Forest Service. 2004d. Deschutes and Ochoco National Forest Wildlife Viewing Website. 

Available: http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/centraloregon/wildlife/species/index.shtml. 

USDA Forest Service. 2004e. Appendix A update: Joint Aquatic and Terrestrial Programmatic 

Biological Assessment April 2003 – April 2006 for Federal Lands within the Deschutes Basin 

Administered by the Bureau of Land Management Prineville Office and for Federal Lands 

Administered by the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests.

USDA Forest Service 2005. Travel Management; Designated Routes and Areas for Motor Vehicle Use. 

Final Rule. 36 CFR Parts 212, 251, 261, and 295. Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 216 / 

Wednesday, November 9, 2005. pp. 68264-68291. 

USDA Forest Service. 2005a. Pacific Northwest Region Invasive Plant Program Preventing and 

Managing Invasive Plants Final Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision. Pacific 

Northwest Region, Portland, Oregon, R6-NR-FHP-PR-02-05. 

USDA Forest Service. 2006. Joint Aquatic and Terrestrial Programmatic Biological Assessment June 

2006 – June 2009 for Federal Lands within the Deschutes Basin Administered by the Deschutes 

and Ochoco National Forests.

USDA Forest Service. 2006b. Pine Mountain Sage Grouse Ecological Type and Habitat Mapping Project. 

Deschutes National Forest. Bend, OR. 15 pp.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 433

USDA Forest Service. 2007. Spark Arrestor Guide- Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV). Forest Service. 

Volume 3. San Dimas Technology & Development Center. April. pps 203

USDA Forest Service. 2007a. USDA Forest Service Strategic Plan, FY 2007 – 2012. FS-880. [Online] 

Available at: http://www.fs.fed.us/publications/strategic/fs-sp-fy07-12.pdf . Accessed on: March 

11, 2010 

USDA Forest Service. 2008. Climate Change and Water: In Brief. http://www.fs.fed.us/ccrc/. 4 p.

USDA Forest Service. 2008a. March 2008 Update to the Joint Aquatic and Terrestrial Programmatic 

Biological Assessment, June 2006-June2009. Deschutes National Forest, Bend, OR.

USDA Forest Service. 2008b. Johnson’s Hairstreak Butterfly and Dwarf Mistletoe Backgrounder. USDA 

Forest Service, LaGrande, OR. 8 pp.USDA. 

USDA Forest Service. 2008c. Update of the Regional Forester’s Sensitive Species Lists and Transmittal 

of Strategic Species List. Region 6, Portland, OR.

USDA Forest Service. 2008d. Off-highway vehicle recreation in the United States and its regions and 

states: an update national report from the national survey on recreation and the environment 

(NSRE). RECSTATS research report in the IRIS series. USDA FS Southern Research Sta. p. 101.

USDA Forest Service. 2008e. Forest Service Strategic Framework for Responding to Climate Change. 

Version 1.0. October

USDA Forest Service. 2008f. Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest and the Crooked River 

National Grassland Invasive Plants EIS.

USDA Forest Service. 2009. “Washington Office of the Forest Service released guidance to Forest 

Service units regarding the incorporation of climate change science into project-level NEPA 

documents”

USDA Forest Service. 2009a. Forest Service Internal Document. Climate Change Considerations in 

Project Level NEPA Analysis. January 13. 

USDA Forest Service. ND. USDA Forest Service Policy for Section 106 of the NHPA Compliance in 

Travel Management: Designated Routes for Motor Vehicle Use, Prepared in Consultation with 

the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. USDA FS Office of the Chief, Washington DC.

USDA Forest Service and USDI Bureau of Land Management. 1994. Record of Decision for 

Amendments to Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management Planning Documents Within the 

Range of the Northern Spotted Owl April 1994.

USDA Forest Service and USDI Bureau of Land Management. 1994. Aquatic Conservation Strategy in 

Record of Decision for Amendments to Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management Planning 

Documents Within the Range of the Northern Spotted Owl April 1994 Pages B9-B-32 

USDI. 1992. Final draft recovery plan for the northern spotted owl. Unpublished Report. U.S. Department 

of Interior, Washington, D.C.

USGS Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center. 2003. Columbia spotted frog, Rana luteiventris, 

Oregon spotted frog, Rana pretiosa. Website: 

http://www.npwrc.usgs.gov/narcam/idguide/rpret.htm. Accessed: November 3, 2004.

Valentine, John F. 1989. Range Development and Improvements 3rd Ed. Academic Press, Inc. San 

Diego California 92101. 524 p.
References

434 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Van der Zande, A.N., W.J. ter Keurs, and W.J. van der Weijden. 1980. The impact of roads on the 

densities of four bird species in an open field habitat – evidence of a long-distance effect. 

Biological Conservation 18:299-321. 

Verts, B.J., and L.N. Carraway. 1998. Land Mammals of Oregon. University of California Press. 668 pp.

Volland, L.A. 1985. Plant Associations of the Central Oregon Pumice Zone. USDA Forest Service, 

Pacific Northwest Region, Portland, Oregon. Technical document R6-ECOL-104-1985. 

Vos, C.C. and A.H.P. Stumpel. 1995. Comparison of habitat-isolation parameters in relation to 

fragmented distribution patterns in the tree frog (Hyla arborea). Landscape Ecology 11:203-214 

IN: Montana TWS. 1999. Effects of recreation on Rocky Mountain Wildlife: A review for 

Montana. Montana Chapter of The Wildlife Society.

Vos, C.C. and J.P. Chardon. 1998. Effects of habitat fragmentation and road density on the distribution 

pattern of the moor frog Rana arvalis. Journal of Applied Ecology 35(1):44-56 IN: Ouren, D.S., 

C. Haas, C.P. Melcher, S.C. Stewart, P.D. Ponds, N.R. Sexton, L. Burris, T. Fancher, and Z.H. 

Bowen. 2007. Environmental effects of off-highway vehicles on Bureau of Land Management 

lands: A literature synthesis, annotated bibliographies, extensive bibliographies, and internet 

resources: U.S. Geological Survey, Open-File Report 2007-1353. 225 pp.

Vos, D.K., R.A. Ryder, and W.D. Gaul. 1985. Response of breeding great blue herons to human 

disturbance in northcentral Colorado. Colonial Waterbirds 8(1):13-22. IN: Gaines, W.L., P.H. 

Singleton, and R.C. Roger. 2003. Assessing the cumulative effects of linear recreation routes on 

wildlife habitats on the Okanogan and Wenatchee National Forests. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR586. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research 

Station. 79 pp.

Walker, George W. and Norman S. MacLeod. 1991. Geologic Map of Oregon, Department of Oregon 

Geology and Minerals Industry, 1:500,000. 

Walker, George W., editor. 1990. Geology of the Blue Mountains Region of Oregon, Idaho and 

Washington: Cenozoic Geology of the Blue Mountains Region, USGS, Professional Paper 1437, 

135 pg. 

Wallen, R.L. and C.R. Groves. 1988. Status and distribution of harlequin ducks (Histrionicus 

histrionicus) in northern Idaho. Idaho Dept. of Fish and Game, Boise, ID.

Warren, A.D. 2005. Butterflies of Oregon: Their Taxonomy, Distribution, and Biology. Lepidoptera of 

North America 6. Contributions of the C.P. Gillette Museum of Arthropod Diversity. Colorado 

State University, Fort Collins, CO. 408 pp.

Wasser, S.K., K. Bevis, G. King, and E. Hanson. 1997. Noninvasive physiological measures of 

disturbance in the northern spotted owl. Conservation Biology 11(4):1029-1022. 

Waters, J.R. and C.J. Zabel. 1995. Northern flying squirrel densities in fir forests of northeastern 

California. Journal of Wildlife Management 59(4):858-866. 

Waters, J.R., K.S. McKelvey, C.J. Zabel, and D. Luoma. 2000. Northern flying squirrel mycophagy and 

truffle production in fir forests in northeastern California. Gen. Tech. Rep. PSW-GTR-178. 

Arcata, CA. USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 435

Watson, J., Chow, J., Gillies, J., Moosmüller, H., Rogers, F., DuBois, D., and Derby, J. 1996. 

Effectiveness Demonstration of Fugitive Dust Control Methods for Public Unpaved Roads and 

Unpaved Shoulders on Paved Roads. Desert Research Institute. California Regional Particulate 

Air Quality Study. Document No. 685-5200.1F1. December.

Watson, J.W., K.R. McAllister, and D.J. Pierce. 2003. Home ranges, movements, and habitat selection of 

Oregon Spotted frogs (Rana pretiosa). Journal of Herpetology 37:292-300. 

Webb, R.H. 1982. Off-road motorcycle effects on a desert soil: Environmental Conservation 9(3)197-208. 

Webb, R.H. and H.G. Wilshire. 1980. Recovery of soils and vegetation in a Mojave desert ghost town, 

Nevada, U.S.A. Journal of Arid Environments 3: 291-303. 

Webb, R.H., H.C. Ragland, W.H. Godwin, and O. Jenkins, 1978. Environmental effects of soil property 

changes with off-road vehicle use. Journal of Environmental Management, Springer New York, 

Vol. 2, Nbr. 3/May 1978. p. 219-233. 

webBikeWorld. April 2009. http://www.webbikeworld.com

Werner, R.G., R.E. Leonard, and J.O. Crevelling, 1985. Impacts of backcountry recreationists on the 

water quality of an Adorndack lake. Northeast Research Stn. Resource Note NE-326. USDA 

Forest Service. 4 p.

Westec Services Inc., 1979. Fugitive dust impacts during off-road vehicle (ORV) events in the California 

desert: Tustin, California, WESTEC Services, Inc., Technical Report.

Wilshire, H.G., J.K. Nakata, S. Shipley, and K. Prestegaard. 1978b. Impacts of Vehicles on Natural 

Terrain at Seven Sites in the San Francisco Bay area. Environmental Geology 2(5):295-319. 

Wilshire, H.G., S. Shipley, and J.K. Nakata. 1978a. Impacts of Off-Road Vehicles on Vegetation. 

Transactions of the 43rd North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference. Pp 131-

139 

Wisdom, M.J. technical editor. 2005. The Starkey Project: a synthesis of long-term studies of elk and 

mule deer. Alliance Communications Group, Lawrence, Kansas.

Wisdom, M.J., R.S. Holthausen, B.C. Wales, C.D. Hargis, V.A. Saab, D.C. Lee, W.J. Hann, T.D. Rich, 

M.M. Rowland, W.J. Murphy, M.R. Eames. 2000. Source habitats for terrestrial vertebrates of 

focus in the interior Columbia basin: broad-scale trends and management implications. Gen. 

Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-485. Portland, OR. USDA Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research 

Station. 3 Vol.

Wollerman, L. 1998. Stabilizing and directional preferences of female Hyla ebraccata for calls differing 

in static properties. Animal Behaviour 55(6):1619-1630. IN: AMEC. 2005. Mackenzie Gas 

Project: Effects of Noise on Wildlife. AMEC Americas Limited.

Wray, Simon. Personal Communication. March 31, 2009.

Yahner, R.H., T.E. Morrell, J.S. Rachael. 1989. Effects of edge contrast on depredation of artificial avian 

nests. Journal of Wildlife Management 53(4):1135-1138 IN: Ouren, D.S., C. Haas, C.P. 

Melcher, S.C. Stewart, P.D. Ponds, N.R. Sexton, L. Burris, T. Fancher, and Z.H. Bowen. 2007. 

Environmental effects of off-highway vehicles on Bureau of Land Management lands: A 

literature synthesis, annotated bibliographies, extensive bibliographies, and internet resources: 

U.S. Geological Survey, Open-File Report 2007-1353. 225 pp.
References

436 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Yosef, R. 1996. Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus), The Birds of North America Online (A. Poole, 

ed.). Ithaca: Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Available: http://bna.birds.cornell.edu/bna/species/231

Doi:10.2173/bna.231 

Zika, Peter F., R. Brainerd and B. Newhouse. 1995. Grapeferns and Moonworts (Botrychium, 

Ophioglossaceae) in the Columbia Basin. An unpublished report submitted to the Eastside 

Ecosystem Management Project, U.S. Forest Service, Walla Walla, WA.

Zouhar, K. 2002. Cynoglossum officinale. In: Fire Effects Information System. U.S. Department of 

Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fire Sciences Laboratory. 

(http://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/cynoff/all.html) 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 437

Glossary

Access Management. Management of the 

ingress and egress of people on National Forest 

System lands. Generally used to describe 

motorized use allowed. 

Access Rights. A privilege or right of a person 

or entity to pass over or use another person's or 

entity's travel way. (36 CFR 212.1, FSM 5460.5 

– Rights of Way Acquisition, FSM 7700 – 

Transportation System) 

Activity – A measure, course of action, or 

treatment that is undertaken to directly or 

indirectly produce, enhance, or maintain forest 

and rangeland outputs or achieve administrative 

or environmental quality objectives (Deschutes 

LRMP)

Adaptive Management. A type of natural 

resource management that implies making 

decisions as part of an on-going process. 

Monitoring the results of actions will provide flow 

of information that may indicate the need to 

change a course of action. Scientific findings 

and the needs of society may also indicate the 

need to adapt resource management to new 

information. 

Administrative unit. A National Forest, a 

National Grassland, a purchase unit, a land 

utilization project, Columbia River Gorge 

National Scenic Area, Land Between the Lakes, 

Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, Midewin 

National Tallgrass Prairie, or other comparable 

unit of the National Forest System. (Such as a 

Ranger District)

Administrative Use. Motorized use of a road, 

trail, or area for limited administrative use by the 

Forest Service; Use of any fire, military, 

emergency, or law enforcement vehicle for 

emergency purposes; Authorized use of any 

combat or combat support vehicle for national 

defense purposes; Law enforcement response 

to violations of law, including pursuit; and, 

Permitted Use and occupancy of National Forest 

System lands. (USDA-Forest Service. 2004. 36 

CFR Part 212, 251, 261, and 295. Travel 

Management; Designated Routes and Areas for 

Motor Vehicle Use.)

Affected Environment. The natural 

environment that exists at the present time in an 

area being analyzed. 

Air Shed. A geographical area that, because of 

topography, meteorology, and climate, shares 

the same air. 

All Terrain Vehicle (ATV) - Any motorized, offhighway vehicle 50 inches or less in width, 

having a dry weight of 600 pounds or less that 

travels on three or more low-pressure tires with 

a seat designed to be straddled by the operator. 

Low-pressure tires are 6 inches or more in width 

and designed for use on wheel rim diameters of 

12 inches or less, utilizing an operating pressure 

of 10 pounds per square inch (psi) or less as 

recommended by the vehicle manufacturer (FSH 

2309.18). In this document the term ATV trail is 

often used to discuss a motorized trail that can 

be used for motorcycles also.

The Forest Service does not classify as ATVs 

the new “golf cart” sized light off-road utility 

vehicles as they usually have a wider track and 

overall length than ATVs. 

Allotment (Range Allotment). The area 

designated for use by a prescribed number of 

livestock for a prescribed period of time. Though 

an entire Ranger District may be divided into 

allotments, all land will not be grazed, because 

other uses, such as recreation or tree plantings, 

may be more important at a given time. 

Alternative. One of several policies, plans, or 

projects proposed for decision-making. 

Analysis Area. See "Regional Analysis Area." 

Animal Unit Month (AUM). The amount of 

forage required by one calf and her cow or 1 

horse or 5 sheep for one month. 

Annual Maintenance. Work performed to 

maintain serviceability, or repair failures during 

the year in which they occur. Includes preventive 

and/or cyclic maintenance performed in the year 

in which it is scheduled to occur. Unscheduled 

or catastrophic failures of components or assets 

may need to be repaired as a part of annual 

maintenance. (Financial Health – Common 

Definitions for Maintenance and Construction 

Terms, July 22, 1998) 

Aquatic Ecosystem. The stream channel, lake 

or estuary bed, water, biotic communities and 

the habitat features that occur therein. 

Aquatic Habitat Types. The classification of 

instream habitat based on location within 

channel, patterns of water flow, and nature of 
Glossary 

438 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

flow controlling structures. Riffles are divided 

into three habitat types: low gradient riffles, 

rapids, and cascades. Pools are divided into 

seven types: secondary channel pools, 

backward pools, trench pools, plunge pools, 

lateral scour pools, dammed pools, and beaver 

ponds. Glides possess attributes of both riffles 

and pools and are characterized by moderately 

shallow water with an even flow that lacks 

pronounced turbulence. 

Aquatic Influence Zone. Used in the context of 

a land management prescription, the area 

encompassing aquatic and riparian ecosystems 

and adjacent lands which directly affect the

hydrologic, geomorphic, and ecological 

processes, controlling aquatic and riparian 

ecosystem health and function. 

Archaeological. A term used to describe any 

cultural resources deposited on or in soil strata 

from past human activity. However, these 

cultural deposits generally must be at least 50 

years old to be considered archaeological.

Area. A discrete, specifically delineated space 

that is smaller, and in most cases much smaller, 

than a Ranger District.

Arterial Road. A forest road that provides 

service to large land areas and usually connects 

with other arterial roads or public highways. 

(FSH 7709.54 - Forest Transportation 

Terminology Handbook, no longer in print) 

Big Game. Those species of large mammals 

normally managed for sport hunting. 

Bio-accumulation. The process whereby living 

plants or animals incorporate a substance into 

their tissues, thus introducing the substance into 

the food chain. Often refers to hazardous 

substances. 

Biological Control. The use of natural means 

to control unwanted pests. Examples include 

introduced or naturally occurring predators such 

as wasps, or hormones that inhibit the 

reproduction of pests. Biological controls can 

sometimes be alternatives to mechanical or 

chemical means. 

Biological Diversity. The number and 

abundance of species found within a common 

environment. This includes the variety of genes, 

species, ecosystems and ecological processes 

that connect everything in a common 

environment. 

Biological Growth-Potential. The average net 

growth attainable in a fully stocked natural forest 

stand. 

Biological Potential. The maximum possible 

resource output limited only by inherent physical 

and biological characteristics. 

Biota. The plant and animal life of a particular 

region. 

BMP (Best Management Practices). Practices 

designed to prevent or reduce water pollution. 

Also referred to as Soil and Water Conservation 

Practices (SWCPs). 

Borrow Source. An area from which sand, 

gravel, or stone is taken for use in another area. 

Bridge. A road or trail structure, including 

supports, erected over a depression or 

obstruction such as water, a road, trail or railway 

and having a deck for carrying traffic or other 

loads. 

Buffer. A land area that is designated to block 

or absorb unwanted impacts to the area beyond 

the buffer. Buffer strips along a trail could block 

views that may be undesirable. Buffers may be 

set aside next to wildlife habitat to reduce abrupt 

change to habitat. 

Capability. The potential of an area of land to 

produce resources, supply goods and services, 

and allow resource uses under an assumed set 

of management practices and at a given level of 

management intensity. Capability depends upon 

current conditions and site conditions such as 

climate, slope, landform, soils and geology, as 

well as the application of management practices, 

such as silviculture or protection from fire, 

insects and disease. 

Capital Improvement. The construction, 

installation, or assembly of a new fixed asset, or 

the significant alteration, expansion, or 

extension of an existing fixed asset to 

accommodate a change of purpose. (Financial 

Health – Common Definitions for Maintenance 

and Construction Terms, July 22, 1998) 

Capture (input). One of the ways functions are 

described; resources (organisms, materials, and 

energy) brought into the system (i.e., 

photosynthesis, migration, onto summer range, 

pollution brought in by wind or water.) 

Channel Depth. The average depth of channel 

from mean high water mark to mean high water 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 439

mark used to define stream type, instream flow 

calculations and riparian management. 

Channel Gradient. The slope of the stream 

channel expressed on a percent of rise per unit 

length. A measure of the drop in water surface 

elevation per unit length of channel. The 

difference in water surface or streambed 

elevation of two study sites on a stream divided 

by the distance between the study sites. 

Channel Roughness. A measurement used to 

determine energy losses and velocities of 

natural stream channels by using water energy 

slope (channel slope), velocity and hydraulic 

radius. 

Channel Stability Rating. A rating of stream 

channels resistance capacity to the detachment 

of bed and bank materials. 

Chemical Control. The use of pesticides and 

herbicides to control pests and undesirable plant 

species. 

Classified Road. Road wholly or partially within 

or adjacent to National Forest System lands that 

are determined to be needed for long-term 

motor vehicle access, including State roads, 

county roads, privately owned roads, National 

Forest System roads, and other roads 

authorized by the Forest Service that is 

designated for motor vehicle use pursuant to 36 

CFR 212.51 on a Motor Vehicle Use Map 

(MVUM). (36 CFR 212.1, FSM 7705 – 

Transportation System). A road under Forest 

Service jurisdiction.

Clean Air Act. (42 U.S.C. 7609) Section 309 

provides authority for the Environmental 

Protection Agency to review other agency 

environmental impact statements. 

Closed Road. Roads on the Forest 

Transportation system available for motorized 

administrative or emergency use, but not open 

to public motorized use. Also called long-term 

intermittent and is classified as a Level 1 

maintenance road. 

Collector Road. A forest road that serves 

smaller land areas than an arterial road. Usually 

connects forest arterial roads to local forest 

roads or terminal. (FSH 7709.54 – Forest 

Transportation Terminology Handbook, no 

longer in print) 

Concentrated Use Area. An area identified by 

the Forest Service characterized by recurring 

frequent and relatively dense dispersed 

recreation and where some continuing site 

impacts have been recorded. Sites of this type 

may need specific site management plans, law 

enforcement patrolling, or some site-hardening 

(gravel, pavement, site management signing, or 

trash removal) to keep sites within acceptable 

standards. 

Concern. (Also management concern.) An 

issue, problem or condition which constrains the 

range of management practices identified by the 

Forest Service in the planning process. 

Connectivity (of habitats). The linkage of 

similar but separated vegetation stands by 

patches, corridors or "stepping stones" of like 

vegetation. This term can also refer to the 

degree to which similar habitats are linked. 

Construction (new). The erection, construction, 

installation, or assembly of a new fixed asset. 

(Financial Health – Common Definitions for 

Maintenance and Construction Terms, July 22, 

1998) 

Corridor. Elements of the landscape that 

connect similar areas. Streamside vegetation 

may create a corridor of willows and hardwoods 

between meadows where wildlife feed. 

Cost-efficiency. The usefulness of specified 

inputs (costs) to produce specified outputs 

(benefits). In measuring cost efficiency, some 

outputs, including environmental, economic, or 

social impacts, are not assigned monetary 

values but are achieved at specified levels in the 

least cost manner. Cost efficiency is usually 

measured using present net value, although use 

of benefit-cost ratios and rates-of return may be 

appropriate. 

Council of Environmental Quality (CEQ). The 

Council issues regulations binding on all federal 

agencies, to implement the procedural 

provisions of the National Environmental Quality 

Act. The regulations address the administration 

of the NEPA process, including preparation of 

Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) for 

major federal actions which significantly affect 

the quality of the human environment. 

Cover. Any feature that conceals wildlife or fish. 

Cover may be dead or live vegetation, boulders, 
Glossary 

440 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

or undercut streambanks. Animals use cover to

escape from predators, rest or feed. 

Critical Habitat. Areas designated for the 

survival and recovery of federally listed 

threatened or endangered species. 

Critical Need. A requirement that addresses a 

serious threat to public health or safety, a 

natural resource, or the ability to carry out the 

mission of the organization. (Financial Health – 

Common Definitions for Maintenance and 

Construction Terms, July 22, 1998) 

Cross-country Travel. Travel over terrain not 

on designated roads and/or trails. 

Cultural Resource. An umbrella term used to 

describe a variety of resources, including 

archaeological or historic remains, folklore and 

oral traditions, and geographic areas traditionally 

ascribed to have historical significance to a 

given culture.

Cultural Sensitivity. Refers to the likelihood of 

encountering significant cultural volumes 

(quantity and/or quality) that may affect and may 

be affected by ground-disturbing activities. 

Cumulative Effects or Impacts. The impact on 

the environment that results from the 

incremental impact of an action when added to 

other past, present and reasonably foreseeable 

future actions regardless of what agency or 

person undertakes such other action. 

Cumulative effects or impacts can result from 

individually minor but collectively significant 

actions taking place over a period of time. 

Decommission. Demolition, dismantling, 

removal, obliteration and/or disposal of a 

deteriorated or otherwise unneeded asset or 

component, including necessary cleanup work. 

This action eliminates the deferred maintenance 

needs for the fixed asset. Portions of an asset or 

component may remain if they do not cause 

problems nor require maintenance. (Financial 

Health - Common Definitions for Maintenance 

and Construction Terms, July 22, 1998)

Deferred Maintenance. Maintenance that was 

not performed when it should have been or 

when it was scheduled and which, therefore, 

was put off or delayed for a future period. When 

allowed to accumulate without limits or 

consideration of useful life, deferred 

maintenance leads to deterioration of 

performance, increased costs to repair, and 

decrease in asset value. Deferred maintenance 

needs may be categorized as critical or 

noncritical at any point in time. Continued 

deferral of noncritical maintenance will normally 

result in an increase in critical deferred 

maintenance. Code compliance (e.g. life safety, 

ADA, OSHA, environmental, etc.), Forest Plan 

Direction, Best Management Practices, 

Biological Evaluations other regulatory or 

Executive Order compliance requirements, or 

applicable standards not met on schedule are 

considered deferred maintenance. (Financial 

Health – Common Definitions for Maintenance 

and Construction Terms, July 22, 1998)

DEIS (Draft Environmental Impact 

Statement). The draft version of the 

Environmental Impact Statement that is released 

to the public and other agencies for review and 

comment. 

Designated road, trail, or area. A National 

Forest System road, a National Forest System 

trail, or an area on National Forest System lands 

that is designated for motor vehicle use pursuant 

to § 212.51 on a motor vehicle use map.

Detrimental Soil Disturbance. Compacted, 

displaced, eroded or burned soil conditions 

incurred by management, recreational or natural 

activities that are capable of reducing the 

productivity of the soil resource.

Developed Recreation. Recreation that 

requires facilities that, in turn, result in 

concentrated use of the area. For example, 

skiing requires ski lifts, parking lots, buildings 

and roads. Campgrounds require roads, picnic 

tables and toilet facilities. 

Dispersed Recreation. Recreation with few 

developed amenities such as structures, 

developed campsites, or toilets. Dispersed 

recreation is generally less directly constrained 

by management controls on movement or by 

enforcement activities, but must comply with 

posted orders or restrictions for areas under 

management. Dispersed campers, for instance, 

can choose to camp in places that are 

undeveloped, so long as they meet general 

posted rules for site protection. The term 

dispersed recreation usually implies lower visitor 

use densities. Dispersed recreation may be 

motorized or non-motorized. 

Disturbance.. Any event, natural or manmade, 

that alters the structure, composition, or function 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 441

of an ecosystem. Examples include forest fires,

insect infestation, and noise.

Diversity. The distribution and abundance of 

different plant and animal communities and 

species within the area covered by a land and 

resource management plan. See also "Edge," 

"Horizontal Diversity," and "Vertical Diversity." 

Ecological Type (Habitat Type). A category of 

land having a unique combination of potential 

natural community; soil, landscape, features,

climate and differing from other ecological types 

in its ability to produce vegetation and respond 

to management. Used to define land capability. 

Ecology. The interrelationships of living things 

to one another and to their environment, or the 

study of these interrelationships. 

Ecosystem. An arrangement of living and nonliving things and the forces that move among 

them. Living things include plants and animals. 

Non-living parts of ecosystems may be rocks 

and minerals. Weather and wildfire are two of 

the forces that act within ecosystems. 

Ecosystem Management. The use of an 

ecological approach to achieve productive 

resource management by blending social, 

physical, economic and biological needs and 

values to provide healthy ecosystems. 

Effects. Environmental consequences as a 

result of a proposed action. Included are direct 

effects, which are caused by the action and 

occur at the same time and place, and indirect 

effects, which are caused by the action and are 

later in time or further removed in distance, but 

which are still reasonably foreseeable. Indirect 

effects may include growth inducing effects and 

other effects related to induced changes in the 

pattern of land use, population density or growth 

rate, and related effects on air, water and other 

natural systems, including ecosystems. 

Effects and impacts as used in this statement 

are synonymous. Effects include ecological 

(such as the effects on natural resources and on 

the components, structures and functioning of 

affected ecosystems), aesthetic quality, historic, 

cultural, economic, social or health whether 

direct, indirect or cumulative. Effects may also 

include those resulting from actions that may 

have both beneficial and detrimental effects; 

even if on balance the agency believes that the 

effects will be beneficial (40 CFR 1508.8). 

Emergency Need. An urgent maintenance need 

that may result in injury, illness, or loss of life, 

natural resource, or property; and must be 

satisfied immediately. Emergency needs 

generally require a declaration of emergency or 

disaster, or a finding by a line officer that an 

emergency exists. (Financial Health – Common 

Definitions for Maintenance and Construction 

Terms, July 22, 1998) 

Endangered Species. Any species of animal or 

plant that is in danger of extinction throughout all 

or a significant portion of its range. Plant or 

animal species identified by the Secretary of the 

Interior and endangered in accordance with the 

1973 Endangered Species Act. 

Endangered Species Act. The Act which 

requires consultation with U.S. Fish and Wildlife 

Service if practices on National Forest System 

lands may impact a threatened or endangered 

species (plant or animal). 

Engineering Analysis. An analysis and 

evaluation conducted by a qualified engineer or 

under the supervision of a qualified engineer of 

an NFS road, road segment, or road system 

being considered for motorized mixed use. The 

analysis and evaluation may include 

recommended mitigation measures. The 

analysis may be simply documentation of 

engineering judgment or may be a more 

complex engineering report that includes many 

factors related to motorized mixed use.

Engineering Judgment. The evaluation of 

available information and the application of 

engineering principles, standards, guidance, and 

practices for the purpose of considering 

motorized mixed use of a road. Engineering 

judgment shall be exercised by a qualified 

engineer or by an individual who is working 

under the supervision of a qualified engineer 

and who is applying procedures and criteria 

established by the qualified engineer. 

Engineering Report. A report that analyzes risk 

factors pertaining to a proposed designation of a 

road for motorized mixed use, that is signed by a 

qualified engineer, and that is presented to the 

responsible official. The report may identify 

alternatives, as well as risks associated with 

those alternatives, for mitigation of factors 

contributing to the probability and severity of 

crashes.
Glossary 

442 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Environmental Analysis. An analysis of 

alternative actions and their predictable long and 

short-term environmental effects. Environmental 

Analyses include physical, biological, social and 

economic factors. 

Environmental Assessment. A brief version of 

an Environmental Impact Statement. 

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). A 

statement of the environmental effects of a 

proposed action and alternatives to it. It is 

required for major Federal actions under Section 

102 of the National Environmental Policy Act 

(NEPA) and released to the public and other 

agencies for comment and review. It is a formal 

document that must follow the requirements of 

NEPA, the Council on Environmental Quality 

(CEQ) guidelines, and directives of the agency 

responsible for the project proposal. 

Ephemeral Streams. Streams that flow only as 

the direct result of rainfall or snowmelt. They 

have no permanent flow. They flow for less than 

30 days at any one time per year.

Erosion. The wearing away of the land surface 

by wind or water. 

Escape Cover. Vegetation of sufficient size and 

density to hide an animal, or an area used by 

animals to escape from predators. 

Evaluation Criteria. Standards developed for 

appraising alternatives. (See decision 

Facilities. Transportation planning, road 

management and operation, fleet equipment, 

and engineering services (for example, 

administrative buildings, water and sanitation 

systems, sanitary landfills, dams, bridges and 

communication systems. 

Fauna. The animal life of an area. 

Forest Development Trails. Those trails wholly 

or partially within, or adjacent to and serving, the 

National Forests and other areas administered 

by the Forest Service that have been included in 

the forest development transportation plan. (36 

CFR 212.1 and 261.2 (FSM 1013.4)

Fire Management. All activities required for the 

protection of resources from fire and the use of 

fire to meet land management goals and 

objectives. 

Fisheries Classification. Water bodies and 

streams classed as either having a cold water or 

warm water fishery. Designation is dependent 

upon the dominate species of fish occupying the 

water. 

Fisheries Habitat. Streams, lakes, and 

reservoirs that support fish, or have the potential 

to support fish. 

Flood Plain. A lowland adjoining a watercourse. 

At a minimum, the area is subject to a 1% or 

greater chance of flooding in a given year. 

Flora. The plant life of an area. 

Forage. All browse and non-woody plants that 

are eaten by wildlife or livestock. 

Forb. A broadleaf plant that has little or no 

woody material in it. 

Forest Activity Tracking System (FACTS) -

Activity tracking system for all levels of the 

Forest Service

Forest Highway. A forest road under the 

jurisdiction of, and maintained by, a public 

authority and open to public travel. (USC: Title 

23, Section 101(a)).

Forest Road. As defined in Title 23, Section 101 

of the United States Code (23 U.S.C. 101), any 

road wholly or partly within, or adjacent to, and 

serving the National Forest System and which is 

necessary for the protection, administration, and 

utilization of the National Forest System and the 

use and development of its resources. (FSM 

7705 – Transportation System) 

Forest Road or Trail. A road or trail wholly or 

partly within, or adjacent to, and serving the 

National Forest System and which is necessary 

for the protection, administration, and utilization 

of the National Forest System and the use and 

development of its resources. (FSM 7705 - 

Transportation System; Final Rule)

Forest Supervisor. The official responsible for 

administering National Forest lands on an 

administrative unit, usually one or more National 

Forests. The Forest Supervisor reports to the 

Regional Forester. 

Forest Transportation Atlas. A display of the 

system of roads, trails, and airfields of an 

administrative unit. 

Forest Transportation Facility. A forest road or 

trail or an airfield that is displayed in a forest 

transportation atlas, including bridges, culverts, 

parking lots, marine access facilities, safety 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 443

devices, and other improvements appurtenant to 

the forest transportation system.

Forest Transportation System. The system of 

National Forest System roads, National Forest 

System trails, and airfields on National Forest 

System lands.

Forest Transportation System Management. 

The planning, inventory, analysis, classification, 

record keeping, scheduling, construction, 

reconstruction, maintenance, decommissioning, 

and other operations undertaken to achieve 

environmentally sound, safe, cost-effective, 

access for use, protection, administration, and 

management of National Forest System lands.

This inclues documentation with a Forest 

Transportation Atlas to display the system of 

roads and trails. (FSM 7705 - Transportation 

System) 

Forage Utilization. The proportion of current 

year's forage production that is consumed or 

destroyed by grazing animals. Forage is all 

browse and herbage that is available and 

acceptable to grazing animals. 

Fragmentation. The splitting or isolating of 

patches of similar habitat, typically forest cover, 

but including other types of habitat. Habitat can 

be fragmented naturally or from forest 

management activities, such as clearcut logging. 

Fuels - Vegetative matter, dead or alive, that 

burns in a fire. It is broadly characterized by the 

following categories: 1) Surface or ground 

fuels are within a foot or so of the ground 

surface, 2) Ladder fuels exist when you 

have a continuous vertical arrangement of fuel 

that allows fire to easily go from ground level 

into the tree canopy. 3) Crown fuels are the 

tree limbs and leave that can burn with enough 

heat and/or wind, or 4) Live fuels are the green 

(live) herbs and shrubs 

Fuel Break – A natural or man-made barrier that 

lacks sufficient fuel to maintain a fire that may 

facilitate containment during wildland fires (Agee 

1993)

Fuel Model –Collections of fuel properties that 

are used to calculate fire danger indices or fire 

behavior potential (Anderson 1982). 

Fuel Management. The treatment of fuels that 

would otherwise interfere with effective fire 

management or control. Fore instance, 

prescribed fire can reduce the amount of fuels 

that accumulate on the forest floor before the 

fuels become so heavy that a natural wildfire in 

the area would be explosive and impossible to 

control. 

Fuel Treatment. Manipulation or removal of 

fuels to reduce the likelihood of ignition and/or 

lessen potential damage and resistance to 

control (e.g. lopping, chipping, crushing, piling, 

and burning). 

Fuelwood. Wood cut into short lengths for 

burning. 

Function. All the processes within an 

ecosystem through which the elements interact, 

such as succession, the food chain, fire, 

weather, and the hydrologic cycle. 

Functional Class. The way a road services land 

and resource management needs, and the 

character of service it provides. (FSH 7709.54, 

Forest Transportation Terminology Handbook, 

no longer in print) 

Game Species. Any species of wildlife or fish 

that is harvested according to prescribed limits 

and seasons. 

Geographical Information System (GIS). GIS 

is a computer technology that uses a geographic 

information system as an analytic framework for 

managing and integrating data; solving a 

problem; or understanding a past, present, or 

future situation. 

(http://www.gis.com/whatisgis/index.html, 2006) 

Goal. A concise statement that articulates a 

desired condition to be achieved sometime in 

the future. It is normally expressed in broad, 

general terms and is timeless in that it has no 

specific date by which it is to be completed. Goal 

statement form the principal basis from which 

objectives are developed. 

Government-to-Government Consultation. 

The active and continuous process of contacting 

tribal leadership, soliciting their participation, 

involvement, comments, concerns, 

contributions, and traditional knowledge that will 

assist the agency in making informed decisions 

in planning, managing and decision-making 

actions.

Grazing Period. The period of time livestock 

use a specific pasture or unit within a grazing 

allotment. 
Glossary 

444 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Guidelines. An indication or outline (as by a 

government) of policy or conduct. 

Habitat. The area where a plant or animal lives 

and grows under natural conditions. 

Habitat Capability. The ability of a land area or 

plant community to support a given species of 

wildlife. 

Habitat Diversity. A number of different types of 

wildlife habitat within a given area. 

Habitat Type. A way to classify land area. A 

habitat can support certain climax vegetation, 

both trees and undergrowth species. Habitat 

typing can indicate the biological potential of a 

site. 

Hard Snag. See Snag. 

Health and Safety Need. A requirement that 

addresses a threat to human safety and health 

(e.g. violations of National Fire Protection 

Association 101 Life Safety Code or appropriate 

Health Code) that requires immediate interim 

abatement and/or long-term permanent 

abatement. (Financial Health – Common 

Definitions for Maintenance and Construction 

Terms, July 22, 1998) 

Heritage Resources. See Cultural Resources

Hiding Cover. The vegetation that will hide 

ninety percent of an elk from the view of a 

human at a distance of 200 feet or less. The 

distance which the animal is essentially hidden 

is called a sight distance. 

High Clearance Vehicle. Generally a truck, 

pickup truck, SUV or ATV with a road clearance 

that allows travel on low standard roads without 

vehicle damage and greater than the clearance 

of a standard passenger vehicle. 

Highway-Legal Vehicle. Any motor vehicle that 

is licensed or certified under state law for 

general operation on all public roads in the state. 

Operators of highway-legal vehicles are subject 

to state traffic law, including requirements for 

operator licensing.

Historic. A term used to describe the time 

period for which written records are available 

(post European contact times in America). 

However, when speaking of cultural resources, 

generally a resource must be at least 50 years 

old to be considered historic.

Historic Property. Any prehistoric or historic 

district, site, building, structure, or object 

included in, or eligible for inclusion in, the 

National Register of Historic Places. This term 

includes artifacts, records, and remains that are 

related to and located within such properties. 

The term includes properties of traditional 

religious and cultural importance to an Indian 

tribe or Native Hawaiian organization and that 

meet the National Register of Historic Places 

criteria.

Hydric Soils. Soils indicative of wetland areas, 

usually characterized by high organic contents 

that decay slowly due to lack of oxygen. They 

frequently contain zones of marked discoloration 

of varying types due to altered or changing 

oxygenation conditions. 

Hydrologically Disturbed. Changes in natural 

canopy cover (vegetation removal) or a change 

in surface soil characteristics (such as 

compaction) that may alter natural streamflow 

quantities and character. Acres of vegetation 

within a watershed that are in a non-stocked, 

seedling, sapling, or first entry category; acres in 

roads; acres from other types of mechanical 

treatments and burned acres are included in the 

calculation of hydrologically disturbed area. 

Hydrology. The science dealing with the study 

of water on the surface of the land, in the soil 

and underlying rocks and in the atmosphere. 

Hydrophytic (wetland) Vegetation. Plants that 

are adapted to wet conditions. Willows, sedges 

and rushes are common hydrophytic plants. 

Lists of plant species that occur in wetlands are 

at: http://www.nwi.fws.gov/plants.html 

Indicator Species. A plant or animal species 

related to a particular kind of environment. Its 

presence indicates that specific habitat 

conditions are also present. 

Indigenous (species). Any species of wildlife 

native to a given land or water area by natural 

occurrence. 

INFRA. The INFRA database (ORACLE) used 

by the U.S. Forest Service. This database 

records attributes for every system road, trail, 

and other Forest Service infrastructure. 

Initial Attack. The wildfire control efforts taken 

by resources that are first to arrive at a wildfire. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 445

Integrated Pest Management. A process for 

selecting strategies to regulate forest pests in 

which all aspects of a pest-host system are 

studies and weighed. The information 

considered in selecting appropriate strategies 

includes the impact of the unregulated pest 

population on various resource values, 

alternative regulatory tactics and strategies, and 

benefit/cost estimates for these alternative 

strategies. Regulatory strategies are based on 

sound silvicultural practices and ecology of the 

pest/host system and consist of a combination of 

tactics such as timber stand improvement plus 

selective use of pesticides. A basic principle in 

the choice of strategy is that it be ecologically 

compatible or acceptable. 

Interdisciplinary Team. A team of individuals 

with skills from different disciplines that focuses 

on the same task or project. 

Intermittent Stream. A stream that goes dry at 

some point each year but flows continuously at 

least 30 days a year when it receives water, 

usually from a seasonal groundwater, but may 

also include some surface source more 

persistent than a rainstorm, such as melting 

snow. 

Invasive Species. A plant species moving into 

areas outside of its former range. 

Inventoried Roadless Area. (West of the 100th 

meridian) An area which meets the statutory 

definition of wilderness, does not contain 

improved roads maintained for travel by 

standard passenger-type vehicles, and meets 

one or more of the following criteria: 

1. Contains 5,000 acres or more. 

2. Contains less than 5,000 acres, but: 

• Due to physiography or vegetation, is 

manageable in a natural condition. 

• Is a self-contained ecosystem such as an 

island. 

• Is contiguous to existing wilderness, 

primitive area, Administration-endorsed 

wilderness, or roadless area in other 

Federal ownership, regardless of size. 

Irretrievable. Applies to losses of production, 

harvest or commitment of renewable natural 

resources. For example, some or all of the 

timber production from an area is irretrievably 

lost during the time an area is used as a winter 

sports site. If the use is changed, timber 

production can be resumed. The production lost 

is irretrievable, but the action is not irreversible. 

Irreversible. Applies primarily to the use of 

nonrenewable resources, such as minerals or 

cultural resources, or to those factors that are 

renewable only over long time spans, such as 

soil productivity. Irreversible also includes loss of 

future options. 

Issue. A point, matter or question of public 

discussion or interest to be addressed or 

decided through the planning process. 

Preliminary issue is an issue identified early in 

the scoping phase and is sometimes referred to 

as a tentative issue. Significant issue is an issue 

within the scope of the proposed action which is 

used to formulate alternatives in an 

Environmental Analysis (EA) or Environmental 

Impact Statement (EIS). 

Jurisdiction. The legal right to control or 

regulate use of a transportation facility. 

Jurisdiction requires authority, but not 

necessarily ownership. The authority to 

construct or maintain a road may be derived 

from fee title, an easement, or some other 

similar method. (FSM 7705 – Transportation 

System) 

Jurisdiction Over a Forest Transportation 

Facility. The legal right to control or regulate 

use of a forest transportation facility derived 

from title, an easement, an agreement, or other 

similar source. 

Legal Notice. A notice of a decision which can 

be appealed that is published in the Federal 

Register or in the legal notice section of a 

newspaper of general circulation. 

Lek. An area used habitually by grouse species 

where the males display for the females each 

spring. Number of males are counted on the lek 

each spring to establish general population 

trends. 

Leasable Minerals. 2822.11 - Leasable 

Minerals With Public Domain Status. The 1920 

Mineral Lands Leasing Act, as amended (30 

U.S.C. 181--287), authorizes the leasing of coal, 

phosphate, sodium, potassium, oil, oil shale, 

gas, and (in Louisiana and New Mexico) 

sulphur. The 1970 Geothermal Steam Act added 

geothermal resources to the list of leasable 
Glossary 

446 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

resources. The 1920 and 1970 acts apply to 

minerals on the following lands:

1. Lands Reserved From Public Domain.

2. Lands Received in Exchange for Public 

Domain Lands or Timber. Under the General 

Exchange Act of March 20, 1922 (42 Stat. 465; 

16 U.S.C. 485), or special exchange acts.

3. Lands With Minerals Reserved Under Special 

Authority. Mineral estates reserved to the United 

States in the original patent remain public land 

minerals and continue to be leasable under the 

1920 act unless their status is changed by 

specific act of Congress (30 U.S.C. 182). 

Reacquisition of the lands does not change the 

public domain status of the minerals. The 

following acts require a reservation of all 

minerals or of specified minerals to the United 

States:

a. Acts of March 3, 1909, and June 22, 1910, as 

amended (30 U.S.C. 81, et seq.), providing for 

nonmineral entry of public lands (exclusive of 

Alaska) withdrawn, classified, or valuable for 

coal.

b. Act of April 23, 1912 (37 Stat. 90; 30 U.S.C. 

77), providing for homestead entry of Alabama 

lands classified as coal lands.

c. Acts of July 17, 1914, as amended, and of 

March 4, 1933 (30 U.S.C., 121-124), providing 

for agricultural entry of lands withdrawn or 

classified as containing phosphate, nitrate, 

potash, oil, gas, asphaltic minerals, sodium, 

and/or sulphur. (Title to these minerals may 

pass with patent to mining claims located prior to 

February 25, 1920: Act of July 20, 1956 (70 Stat. 

592; 30 U.S.C. 122).)

d. Stock Raising Homestead Act of December 

29, 1916 (39 Stat. 864; 43 U.S.C. 299). 

Providing for stockraising homestead entry of 

certain lands, subject to a reservation of coal 

and other minerals.

e. Act of March 8, 1922 (42 Stat. 414; 43 U.S.C. 

912), providing for disposal of forfeited railroad 

right-of-way land and related sites with 

reservations to the United States of all oil, gas, 

and other minerals.

f. Act of December 22, 1928, as amended (45 

Stat. 1069; 43 U.S.C. 1068), authorizing sale of 

lands held under color of title; reserves coal and 

all other minerals with exceptions under certain 

conditions.

g. Act of February 23, 1932 (47 Stat. 53; 43 

U.S.C. 178), authorizing sale of lands adjacent 

to Spanish or Mexican land grants in New 

Mexico, reserving to the United States coal and 

all other minerals.

2822.12 - Leasable Minerals With Acquired 

Status. The Mineral Leasing Act for Acquired 

Lands (Act of August 7, 1947) is the leasing 

authority for acquired federally owned deposits 

of coal, phosphate, sodium, potassium, oil, oil 

shale, gas, and sulphur. The 1970 Geothermal 

Steam Act added geothermal resources to the 

list of leasable resources. The 1947 and 1970 

acts apply to the following lands:

 1. Lands purchased under the provisions of the 

Weeks Law as amended, or received in 

exchange for such land or timber thereon (Act of 

March 1, 1911, 36 Stat. 962, as amended; 16 

U.S.C. 515-516).

2. Lands donated under section 7 of the ClarkeMcNary Act (Act of June 7, 1924, 43 Stat. 654; 

16 U.S.C. 569).

3. Lands purchased or donated under the Act of 

March 3, 1925, as amended (43 Stat. 1133, 16 

U.S.C. 555).

4. Lands purchased under any of the so-called 

receipts acts.

5. Acquired lands administered under Title III, 

Bank-head-Jones Farm Tenant Act (Act of July 

22, 1937, 50 Stat. 525; 7 U.S.C. 1010-1012).

6. Lands received in exchange for public domain 

land under Title III, Bankhead-Jones Farm 

Tenant Act. Such lands attain "acquired land" 

status (Item 1, Executive Order 10175 of 

October 25, 1950).

7. Acquired lands added to the National Forest 

System by other acts of Congress.

8. Acquired lands transferred to the Department 

of Agriculture by other agencies for 

administration by the Forest Service.

9. Lands reacquired and added to the Carson 

and Santa Fe National Forests by the act of 

June 28, 1952 (66 Stat. 284) (formerly 

comprising the North Half Lobato Grant and the 

El Pueblo Tract). Applies to minerals reserved in 

the original patent.
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 447

10. Unpatented homestead or other entries 

purchased under the National Industrial 

Recovery Act (NIRA), the Emergency Relief 

Appropriation Act (ERA), or Title III of the Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant Act and added to the 

Siuslaw National Forest by the act of November 

25, 1940 (54 Stat. 1210).

Lentic. Wetlands that do not contain nor are 

affected by energy of flowing water, such as 

isolated ponds and wet meadows. 

Local Road. A forest road that connects 

terminal facilities with forest collector, forest 

arterial or public highways. Usually forest local 

roads are single purpose transportation facilities. 

(FSH 7709.54 – Forest Transportation 

Terminology Handbook, no longer in print) 

Locatable Minerals. Locatable minerals are 

those minerals that may be located and 

removed from Federal lands under the authority 

of the General Mining Law of 1872, as 

amended. 

Low Standard Road. A road intended for travel 

by high clearance vehicles or ATVs, not 

standard passenger vehicles. 

Maintenance. The act of keeping fixed assets in 

acceptable condition. It includes preventive 

maintenance normal repairs; replacement of 

parts and structural components, and other 

activities needed to preserve a fixed asset so 

that it continues to provide acceptable service 

and achieves its expected life. Maintenance 

excludes activities aimed at expanding the 

capacity of an asset or otherwise upgrading it to 

serve needs different from, or significantly 

greater than those originally intended. 

Maintenance includes work needed to meet 

laws, regulations, codes, and other legal 

direction as long as the original intent or purpose 

of the fixed asset is not changed. (Financial 

Health – Common Definitions for Maintenance 

and Construction Terms, July 22, 1998)

Maintenance Level. Defines the level of service 

provided by, and maintenance required for, a

specific road, consistent with road management 

objectives and maintenance criteria. (FSH 

7709.58, Sec 12.3 – Transportation System 

Maintenance Handbook)

Maintenance Level 1: Assigned to intermittent 

service roads during the time they are closed to 

vehicular traffic. The closure period must exceed 

1 year. Basic custodial maintenance is 

performed to keep damage to adjacent resource 

to an acceptable level and to perpetuate the 

road to facilitate future management activities. 

Emphasis is normally given to maintaining 

drainage facilities and runoff patterns. Planned 

road deterioration may occur at this level. 

Appropriate traffic management strategies are 

"prohibit" and "eliminate". Roads receiving level 

1 maintenance may be of any type, class or 

construction standard, and may be managed at 

any other maintenance level during the time they 

are open for traffic. However, while being 

maintained at level 1, they are closed to 

vehicular traffic, but may be open and suitable 

for non-motorized uses.

Maintenance Level 2: Assigned to roads open 

for use by high clearance vehicles. Passenger 

car traffic is not a consideration. Traffic is 

normally minor, usually consisting of one or a 

combination of administrative, permitted, 

dispersed recreation, or other specialized uses. 

Log haul may occur at this level. Appropriate 

traffic management strategies are either (1) 

discourage or prohibit passenger cars or (2) 

accept or discourage high clearance vehicles.

Maintenance Level 3: Assigned to roads open 

and maintained for travel by a prudent driver in a 

standard passenger car. User comfort and 

convenience are not considered priorities. 

Roads in this maintenance level are typically low 

speed, single lane with turnouts and spot 

surfacing. Some roads may be fully surfaced 

with either native or processed material. 

Appropriate traffic management strategies are 

either "encourage" or "accept." "Discourage" or 

"prohibit" strategies may be employed for certain 

classes of vehicles or users.

Maintenance Level 4: Assigned to roads that 

provide a moderate degree of user comfort and 

convenience at moderate travel speeds. Most 

roads are double lane and aggregate surfaced. 

However, some roads may be single lane. Some 

roads may be paved and/or dust abated. The 

most appropriate traffic management strategy is 

"encourage." However, the "prohibit" strategy 

may apply to specific classes of vehicles or 

users at certain times.

Maintenance Level 5: Assigned to roads that 

provide a high degree of user comfort and 

convenience. Normally, roads are double-lane, 

paved facilities. Some may be aggregate 
Glossary 

448 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

surfaced and dust abated. The appropriate 

traffic management strategy is "encourage."

Management Concern. An issue, problem or a 

condition which constrains the range of 

management practices identified by the Forest 

Service in the planning process. 

Management Direction. A statement of 

multiple-use and other goals and objectives, the 

associated management prescriptions, and 

standards and guidelines for attaining them. 

Management Prescription. Management 

practices and intensity selected and scheduled 

for application on a specific area to attain 

multiple-use and other goals and objectives.

Mass Movement/Wasting. A general term for 

the dislodgement and downslope transport of 

soil and rock material under the direct 

application of gravitational body stresses. Mass 

wasting includes slow displacements, such as 

creep and solifluction and rapid movements 

such as rockfalls, rockslides and debris flows.

Mass Stability. The existing condition of the soil 

mantel related to the potential for land mass 

failure such as landslides, mud flows and debris 

slides. 

Matrix. The least fragmented, most continuous 

pattern element of a landscape; the vegetation 

type that is most continuous over a landscape. 

Mesic – Characterized by or adopted to a wet 

environment

Mineral Soil. Soil that consists mainly of 

inorganic material, such as weathered rock, 

rather than organic matter. 

MIS (management indicator species). A 

wildlife species whose population indicate the 

health of the ecosystem in which it lives and, 

consequently, the effects of forest management 

activities to that ecosystem. MIS are selected by 

land management agencies. (See indicator 

species.) 

Mission Need. A requirement that addresses a 

threat or risk to carrying out the mission of the 

organization. Needs related to administration 

and providing services (transportation, 

recreation, grazing, etc.). Needs not covered by 

health and safety or natural resource protection. 

(Financial Health – Common Definitions for 

Maintenance and Construction Terms, July 22, 

1998) 

Mitigate/mitigation. To lessen the severity. 

Actions taken to avoid, minimize or rectify the 

impact of a land management practice. 

Mixed Use Analysis. An evaluation done by the 

Forest Service to consider the probabilities and 

consequences of accidents associated with the 

use of licensed street legal vehicles and 

operators with vehicles and operators that are 

not licensed use, whether it be mixed use or 

sole use. (See FS Handbook 7709.52).

Monitoring. The determination of how well 

project or plan objectives have been met and 

how closely management practices should be 

adjusted. (See adaptive management.) 

Motorcycle. A two-wheeled motor vehicle on 

which the two wheels are not side-by-side but in 

line.

Motorized Mixed Use. Designation of an NFS 

road for use by both highway-legal and nonhighway-legal motor vehicles. 

Motorized Trail. A Forest development trail 

intended for use by motorized vehicles 50 

inches or less in width, having a dry weight of 

600 pounds or less that travels on three or more 

low-pressure tires with a seat designed for 

straddling by the operator. These trails may also 

be used by motorcycles and are open for use to 

non-motorized trail users. 

Motor vehicle. Any vehicle which is selfpropelled, other than: (1) A vehicle operated on 

rails; and (2) Any wheelchair or mobility device, 

including one that is battery powered, that is 

designed solely for use by a mobility-impaired 

person for locomotion, and that is suitable for 

use in an indoor pedestrian area.

Motor vehicle use map. A map reflecting 

designated roads, trails, and areas on an 

administrative unit or a Ranger District of the 

National Forest System.

Mountain Brush. Vegetation characterized by 

woody species usually found between 

sagebrush/grasslands and coniferous forests at 

upper elevations. Prominent species include 

mountain mahogany, mountain maple, 

chokecherry, serviceberry, etc. 

Multiple-Use. The management of all the 

various renewable surface resources of the 

National Forest System lands for a variety of 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 449

purposes such as recreation, range, timber, 

wildlife and fish habitat, and watershed. 

Municipal Watershed. A watershed that serves 

a public water system as defined in Public Law 

93- 523 (Safe Drinking Water Act); or as defined 

in State safe drinking water regulations. The 

definition does not include communities served 

by a well or confined ground water unaffected by 

Forest Service activities. 

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). 

This is the basic national charter for protection of 

the environment. It establishes policy, sets goals 

and provides means for carrying out the policy. 

National Forest Management Act (NFMA). 

These are rules that require an integration of 

planning for National Forests and Grasslands, 

including the planning for timber, range, fish and 

wildlife, water, wilderness, recreation resources, 

together with resource protection activities, such 

as fire management, and the use of other 

resources, such as minerals. 

National Forest System (NFS) Land. Federal 

lands that have been designated by Executive 

Order or statute as National Forests, National 

Grasslands, Purchase Units, and other lands 

under the administration of the Forest Service, 

including Experimental Areas and BankheadJones Title III lands. 

National Forest System Road. A forest road 

other than a road which has been authorized by 

a legally documented right-of-way held by a 

State, county, or other local public road 

authority. A classified forest road under the 

jurisdiction of the Forest Service. The term 

"National Forest System roads" is synonymous 

with the term "forest development roads" as 

used in 23 U.S.C. 205. (FSM 7705 - 

Transportation System)

National Forest System Trail. A forest trail 

other than a trail which has been authorized by a 

legally documented right-of-way held by a State, 

county, or other local public road authority.

National Interagency Fire Management 

Integrated Database (NIFMID)- database that 

stores data on wildland fire occurrence from US 

Forest Service fire reports

Native Species. A species of flora or fauna 

occurring naturally in the United States and that 

not introduced by humans. 

Natural Resource. A feature of the natural 

environment that is of value in serving human 

needs. 

Nest Survey. A way to estimate the size of a 

bird population by counting the number of nests 

in a given area. 

New Road Construction. Activity that results in 

the addition of forest classified or temporary 

road miles. (36 CFR 212.1, FSM 7705 – 

Transportation System) 

No Action Alternative. The No Action 

Alternative describes the current management 

direction related to motorized access off of 

designated routes and motorized access for 

dispersed camping that is proposed to be 

changed by Alternatives 2 and 3. 

Nongame. Species of animals not managed for 

sport hunting. 

Non-Highway-Legal Vehicle. Any motor 

vehicle that is not licensed or certified under 

state law for general operation on all public 

roads within the state. Operators of nonhighway-legal vehicles are subject to state 

requirements, if any, for licensing and operation 

of the vehicle in question.

Non-motorized Trail. A Forest development 

trail intended for non-motorized users. These 

trails are also open to bicycles, except in areas 

recommended for Wilderness designation by the 

revised forest plan. 

Nonnative Species. A species introduced into 

an ecosystem through human activities. 

Nonpoint Source Pollution. Pollution whose 

source is not specific in location. The sources of 

discharge are dispersed, not well-defined, or 

constant. Rain storms and snow melt often 

make this type of pollution worse. Examples 

include sediments from logging activities, and 

runoff from agricultural chemicals. 

Non-renewable Resource. A resource whose 

total quantity does not increase measurably over 

time, so that each use of the resource 

diminishes the supply. 

Notice of Intent. A notice printed in the Federal 

Register announcing that an Environmental 

Impact Statement (EIS) will be prepared. 
Glossary 

450 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Noxious Weeds. A plant recognized by law as 

being especially undesirable, troublesome, and 

difficult to control. 

NWI. National Wetlands Inventory, maintained 

by the US Fish and Wildlife Service and

currently on the WWW at: 

http://www.nwi.fws.gov 

Objective. A clear and quantifiable statement of 

planned results to be achieved within a stated 

time period. Something aimed at or striven for 

within a predetermined time period. An objective 

must be achievable, be measurable, have a 

stated time period for completion, be 

quantifiable, be clear and its results must be 

described. 

Objective Maintenance Level. The 

maintenance level to be assigned at a future 

date considering future road management 

objectives, traffic needs, budget constraints, and 

environmental concerns. The objective 

maintenance level may be the same as, or 

higher or lower than, the operational 

maintenance level. (FSH 7709.58, Sec12.3 - 

Transportation System Maintenance Handbook)

Off Highway Vehicle (OHV). Any motor vehicle 

designed for or capable of cross country travel 

on or immediately over land, water, sand, snow, 

ice, marsh, swampland, or other natural terrain. 

“OHVs include any snowmobile, ATV, 

motorcycle, or other off-highway vehicles 

capable of travel over unimproved terrain.” 

(www.stateparks.utah.gov/ohv/faq.htm, 2004).

Off-Road Vehicles (ORV's). Vehicles such as 

motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, four-wheel 

drive vehicles and snowmobiles. 

Open for Public Travel. The road section is 

available and passable by four-wheeled 

standard vehicles, and open to the general 

public for use without restrictive gates, 

prohibitive signs, or regulation other than 

restrictions based on size, weight or class of 

registration, except during scheduled periods, 

extreme weather or emergency conditions. (23 

CFR 460.2(c)). 

Open Motorized Route Density (OMRD). 

Includes all open roads and open motorized 

trails. Density may be displayed in miles per 

square mile for a specified analysis area. 

Operational Maintenance Level. The 

maintenance level currently assigned to a road 

considering today's needs, road condition, 

budget constraints, and environmental concerns. 

It defines the level to which the road is currently 

being maintained. (FSH 7709.58, Sec 12.3 - 

Transportation System Maintenance Handbook)

Opportunities. Ways to address or resolve 

public issues or management concerns in the 

land and resource management planning 

process. 

Other System. Additional network(s) of travel 

ways serving a common need or purpose, 

managed by an entity with the authority to 

finance, build, operate and maintain the routes. 

(U.S.C. 101 23 CFR 660, FSM 7740.5 – Federal 

Lands Highway Programs) 

Output. One of the ways functions are 

described; resources which leave a system, i.e., 

animals migrating out of an area, mass erosion, 

removal of commercial timber from an area. 

Overland Flow. Surface flow resulting when 

rainfall (or snow melt) exceeds the infiltration 

rate and depression storage is filled. Often 

referred to as Horton or Hortonian overland flow.

Over-Snow Vehicle. A motor vehicle that is 

designed for use over snow and that runs on a 

track or tracks and/or a ski or skis, while in use 

over snow (36 CFR 212.1). 

Palustrine. Palustrine systems include wetlands 

which lack flowing water. See Lentic. 

Perennial Stream. A stream that flows 

throughout the year and from source to mouth. 

Perlite. A volcanic glass containing water that 

expands or “pops” when heated to form a 

lightweight aggregate. 

Permitted Grazing. Grazing on a National 

Forest range allotment under the terms of a 

grazing permit. 

Permittee. A person or persons who utilize the 

National Forest System lands under a permit, 

usually a Special Use Permit or livestock grazing 

permit. 

Personal Use. Normally used to describe the 

type of permit issued for removal of wood 

products (firewood, posts, poles, and Christmas 

trees) from National Forest land when the 

product is for home use and not to be resold for 

profit. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 451

Plant Association Group - Plant communities 

can be classified by a variety of factors such as 

vegetation structure, site moisture, and 

overstory and understory plant species 

composition. Similar plant associations are 

aggregated and grouped by their climax species, 

site potential, and moisture similarities into Plant 

Association Groups

Plant Community. A group of one or more 

populations of plants in a common spatial 

arrangement. 

Plant Species. The major subdivision of a 

genus or subgenus of a plant being described or 

measured. 

Potential Natural Vegetation. The vegetation 

that would exist today if man were removed from 

the scene and if the plant succession after his 

removal were telescoped into a single moment. 

The time compression eliminates the effects of 

future climatic fluctuations, while the effects of 

man's earlier activities are permitted to stand. 

Prescription. Management practices selected 

to accomplish specific land and resource 

management objectives. 

Primitive Area. An area within the NFS 

classified as primitive on the effective date of the 

Wilderness Act, September 3, 1964 (36 CFR 

261.2).

Primitive ROS (Recreation Opportunity 

Spectrum). A classification of wilderness and 

recreation opportunity. It is characterized by an 

essentially unmodified environment, where trails 

mail be present but structures are rare, and 

where it is highly probable to be isolated from 

the sights and sounds of people. (See ROS.) 

Private Road. A road under private ownership 

authorized by easement to a private party, or a 

road which provides access pursuant to a 

reserved or private right. (FS-643, Roads 

Analysis; Informing Decisions About Managing 

the National Forest Transportation System, 

August 1999.).

Programmatic Direction. Sideboards for 

management which are usually general in nature 

and designed to be applied over a large area. In 

the Forest Service, generally referring to Forest 

Plan direction. 

Properly Functioning Condition (PFC). The 

condition of a resource or ecosystem at any 

temporal or spatial scale when they are dynamic 

and resilient to disturbances to structure, 

composition and processes of their biological or 

physical components. 

Proposal. Exists at the stage in the 

development of an action when an agency is 

actively preparing to make a decision on one or 

more alternative means of accomplishing a goal 

and the effects can be meaningfully evaluated. 

Proposed Action. A proposal by the Forest 

Service to authorize, recommend or implement 

an action. 

Protocol. A specific way of conducting 

monitoring or analysis. 

Public Access. An indication if the property is 

posted or restricted from public use. 

Public Authority. A Federal, State, county, 

town or township, Indian tribe, municipal or other 

local government or instrumentality thereof, with 

authority to finance, build, operate or maintain 

toll or toll-free highway facilities. (23 CFR 

460.2(b)) 

Public Forest Service Road. A designated 

public road under Forest Service jurisdiction that 

meets the definition of 23 U.S.C. Section 101. 

Public Issue. A subject or questions of 

widespread public interest relating to 

management of the National Forest System. 

Public Land. Land for which title and control 

rests with a government - federal, state, 

regional, county or municipal. 

Public Participation. Meeting, conferences, 

seminars, workshops, tours, written comments, 

responses to survey questionnaires, and similar 

activities designed and held to obtain comments 

from the public about Forest Service planning 

and decision making. 

Public Road. Any road or street under the 

jurisdiction of and maintained by a public 

authority and open to public travel. (23 U.S.C. 

101(a), 23 CFR 460.2(a), FSM 7705 - 

Transportation System)

Pumice. A light-colored, lightweight volcanic 

rock consisting mostly of volcanic glass. 

Purpose and Need. A statement which briefly 

specifies the underlying purpose and need to 

which the agency is responding in proposing the 

alternatives including the proposed action. 
Glossary 

452 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Qualified Engineer. An engineer who by 

experience, certification, education, or license is 

technically trained and experienced to perform 

the engineering tasks specified and who is 

designated by the Regional Office Director of 

Engineering. 

Quickflow. Quickflow is overland flow plus 

interflow that together forms storm flow. 

Comprises storm runoff to streams from both 

flow over the surface (Horton overland flow), and 

water that finds preferential pathways such as 

“pipes” and bedding planes in the shallow 

subsurface (interflow). Quickflow does not 

include infiltrating water that percolates further 

down to the water table and then travels to 

streams. 

Range (Rangeland). Land on which the 

principle natural plant cover is composed of 

native grasses, forbs, and shrubs that area 

available as forage for big game and livestock. 

Range Development. An activity or structure 

used to improve livestock distribution, rangeland 

conditions, or otherwise improve range 

management. Can be structural (fence, water 

development, etc.) or nonstructural (seeding, 

vegetation manipulation, etc.). 

Range Management. The art and science of 

planning and directing range use intended to 

yield the sustained maximum animal production 

and perpetuation of the natural resources. 

Ranger District. The administrative sub-unit of 

a National Forest that is supervised by a District 

Ranger who reports directly to the Forest 

Supervisor. 

Raptor. A bird of prey, such as an eagle or 

hawk. 

RARE II. Roadless Area Review and Evaluation. 

The national inventory of roadless and 

undeveloped areas within the National Forests 

and Grasslands. 

Reclamation. The process of restoring 

disturbed areas, usually consisting of reshaping, 

replacing topsoil, and seeding the area. 

Recreation Opportunities Spectrum (ROS). – 

A planning device used to describe and allocate 

(map) outdoor recreation settings. ROS 

identifies a number of classes of outdoor 

recreation settings along a spectrum ranging 

from Primitive (with almost no development or 

modification of natural settings - P) to Urban 

(with the highest possible developed character - 

U.) Other Classes in ROS from less to more 

developed include: Semi- Primitive NonMotorized (SPNM), Semi-Primitive Motorized 

(SPM) Roaded Natural (RN) and Rural(R). 

(More detail on ROS can be found in the 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest Plan (2003) 

which has applied ROS in its planning.) 

Recreation Types: Developed Recreation. The 

type of recreation that occurs where 

modifications (improvements) enhance 

recreation opportunities and accommodate 

intensive recreation activities in a defined area. 

Dispersed Recreation. That type of recreation 

use that requires few, if any, improvements and 

may occur over a wide area. This type of 

recreation involves activities related to roads 

and trails. The activities do not necessarily take 

place on or adjacent to a road or trail, only in 

conjunction with it. Activities tend to be day-use 

oriented and include hunting, fishing, berry 

picking, off-road vehicle use, hiking, horseback 

riding, picnicking, camping, viewing scenery, 

snowmobiling, and many others. 

Regional Forester. The official of the USDA 

Forest Service responsible for administering an 

entire region of the Forest Service. 

Regulations. Generally refers to the Code of 

Federal Regulations, Title 36, Chapter II, which 

covers management of the Forest Service. 

Research Natural Area (RNA). Designated 

areas of land, usually more than 300 acres in 

size having characteristics concerning ecological 

processes that are of scientific or educational 

interest. These areas are valuable for 

conducting observation and research activities 

on plant and animal succession, habitat 

requirements of species, insect and fungus 

depredations, soil microbiology, phenology, and 

other related subjects. 

Resource Protection Need. A requirement that 

addresses a threat or risk of damage, 

obstruction, or negative impact to a natural 

resource. (Financial Health – Common 

Definitions for Maintenance and Construction 

Terms, July 22, 1998) 

Responsible Official. The Forest Service 

employee who has been delegated the authority 

to carry out a specific planning action. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 453

RHCA. Resource Habitat Conservation Area. 

Term used to describe riparian areas developed 

by the agency for INFISH and PACFISH. RHCA 

width definitions are mostly the same as the 

“default buffer widths” in the Revised Forest 

Plan. 

Riffle. A shallow rapids where the water flows 

swiftly over completely or partially submerged 

obstructions to produce surface agitation, but 

standing waves are absent. 

Right-of-Way. An accurately located strip of 

land with defined width, point of beginning, and 

point of ending. It is the area within which the 

user has authority to conduct operations 

approved or granted by the landowner in an 

authorizing document, such as a permit, 

easement, lease, license, or Memorandum of 

Understanding (MOU). 

Riparian Area. They are along a watercourse or

around a lake or pond. 

Riparian Ecosystem. The ecosystems around 

or next to water areas that support unique 

vegetation and animal communities as a result 

of the influence of water. 

Risk (Fire). The probability that potential harm 

or undesirable consequences will be realized. 

Road. A motor vehicle route over 50 inches 

wide, unless identified and managed as a trail. A 

road may be classified, unclassified, or 

temporary. (36 CFR 212.1, FSM 7705 - 

Transportation System)

Road Construction or Reconstruction. 

Supervising, inspecting, actual building, and 

incurrence of all costs incidental to the 

construction or reconstruction of a road. Activity 

that results in a Road Improvement or Road 

Realignment of an existing classified road. (FSM 

7700 - Transportation System)

Roadless Area (or inventoried roadless areas) 

– Areas of land on the Wasatch-Cache National 

Forest that have been inventoried and described 

and are presented in Appendix C of the FEIS for 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest Plan Revision 

(2003). Inventoried roadless areas have a 

number of recognized values and are generally 

over 5,000 acres in extent. There is an absence 

of constructed roads or other imposing manmade features or structures in these areas.

Road Management Objectives (RMO). Defines 

the intended purpose of an individual road 

based on management area direction and 

access management objectives. Road 

management objectives contain design criteria, 

operation criteria, and maintenance criteria. 

(FSH 7709.55, Sec 33 - Transportation Planning 

Handbook)

Roads Analysis. A Forest Service evaluation of 

a roads system for transportation planning used 

to inform management decisions about the 

benefits and risks inherent in National Forest 

road systems. Roads analysis does not make 

decisions about building, decommissioning , 

closing or opening roads, but creates 

information for decision makers to provide a 

more knowledgeable context on roads for 

decision making. The objective of roads analysis 

is to provide line officers with information to 

develop road systems that are safe, responsive 

to public needs and desires, affordable and 

efficiently managed, have minimal ecological 

impacts, and are in balance with available 

funding. (Roads Analysis: Informing Decisions 

about Managing the National Forest 

Transportation System. FS-643, August 1999.)

Road Decommissioning. Activities that result 

in the stabilization and restoration of unneeded 

roads to a more natural state. (36 CFR 212.1, 

FSM 7705 – Transportation System) 

Road Density. The miles of road per square 

mile. 

Road Improvement. Activity that results in an 

increase of an existing road’s traffic service 

level, expands its capacity, or changes its 

original design function. (FSM 7705 – 

Transportation System) 

Road Maintenance. The ongoing upkeep of a 

road necessary to retain or restore the road to 

the approved road management objective. (FSM 

7705 – Transportation System) 

Road Reroute or Realignment. Activity that 

results in a new location of an existing road or 

portions of an existing road and treatment of the 

old roadway (FSM 7705 - Transportation 

System). 

Road Subject to the Highway Safety Act. An 

NFS road that is open to public use in a 

standard passenger car, including a road with 

access restricted on a seasonal basis and a 
Glossary 

454 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

road closed during extreme weather conditions 

or for emergencies, but which is otherwise open 

to public travel.

Road System. An alpha code indicating primary 

systems designation where primary indicates the 

system under which principle funding and 

management criteria for operation and 

maintenance of a road is derived. 

ROD. Record of Decision. An official document 

in which a deciding official states the alternative 

that will be implemented from a prepared EIS. 

ROS. Recreation Opportunity Spectrum. The 

land classification system that categorizes land

by its setting and the probable recreation 

experiences and activities it affords. (See 

Recreation Opportunity Class.) 

Route. A road or trail that is signed and 

managed as a unique entity. Management can 

change along its length but it is singularly 

identified. This term is also used in GIS to 

denote a linear feature composed of one or 

more arcs or parts of arcs. 

Route System. A GIS term for a collection of 

routes, representing a logical collection of linear 

features. 

RPA. The Forest and Rangeland Renewable 

Resources Planning Act of 1974. Also refers to 

the National Assessment and Recommended 

Program developed to fulfill the requirements of 

this Act. 

RS 2477. Revised Statute 2477; legislation that 

allows counties to assert that they have access 

rights on roads and/or trails that existed prior to 

the establishment of the Forest. 

Run-off. The portion of precipitation that flows 

over the land surface or in open channels. 

Saleable Minerals: (36CFR 228.41 (c)) Often 

referred to as mineral materials, are identified in 

the Materials Act of 1947 (30 USC 601) as 

petrified wood, common varieties of sand, 

gravel, stone, pumice, pumicite, cinders, clay, 

peat. They are used for: 

Agricultural supply and animal husbandry 

(limestone)

Building materials (Flagstone, sandstone)

Abrasive materials (pumice)

Construction materials (cinders)

Landscaping materials (granite boulders)

Scale. In ecosystem management, scale refers 

to the degree of resolution at which ecosystems 

are observed and measured. 

Scoping. The on-going process to determine 

public opinion, receive comments and 

suggestions, and determine issues during the 

environmental analysis process. It may involve 

public meetings, telephone conversations or 

letters. 

Sediment. Solid material, both mineral and 

organic, transported from its site of origin by air, 

water, gravity, or ice. 

Sensitive Species. Plant or animal species 

which are susceptible to habitat changes or 

impacts from activities. The official designation 

is made by the USDA Forest Service at the 

Region level and is not part of the designation of 

Threatened or Endangered Species made by 

the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. 

Service Life. The length of time that a facility is 

expected to provide a specified service. (FSH 

7709.56b, Sec 05 – Transportation Structures 

Handbook) 

Similar Actions. Actions, which when viewed 

with other reasonable foreseeable or proposed 

agency actions, have similarities that provide a 

basis for evaluating their environmental 

consequences together, such as timing or 

geography. 

Single-track Motorized Trail. A Forest 

development trail intended for use by motorized 

vehicles that produce a single track on the 

ground 18 inches or less in width, essentially 

motorcycles. These vehicles have a dry weight 

of 600 pounds or less with a seat designed for 

straddling by the operator. These trails are also 

open for use to non-motorized trail users. 

(USDA-Forest Service. 2004. 36 CFR Part 212, 

251, 261, and 295. Travel Management; 

Designated Routes and Areas for Motor Vehicle 

Use.)

Slash. The residue left on the ground after 

timber cutting and/or accumulating there as a 

result of storm, fire, or other damage. It includes 

unused logs, uprooted stumps, broken or 

uprooted stems, branches, twigs, leaves, bark 

and chips. 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 455

Slump. A landslide characterized by a shearing 

and rotary movement of a generally independent 

mass of rock or earth along a curved slip surface 

(concave upward) and about an axis parallel to 

the slope from which it descends, and by a 

backward tilting of the mass with respect to that 

slope so that the slump surface often exhibits a 

reversed slope facing uphill.

Small Game. Birds and small mammals typically 

hunted or trapped. 

Smoke Management. Application of fire 

intensities and meteorological processes to 

minimize degradation of air quality during 

prescribed fires. 

Snag. A standing dead tree important as habitat 

for a variety of wildlife species and their prey. 

Soil Compaction. A physical change in soil 

properties that results in a decrease in porosity 

and increase in soil bulk density and soil 

strength. 

Soil Cover. The type of cover on the soil 

surface, i.e. live vegetation, litter, rock, 

pavement, exposed. 

Soil Displacement. The movement of the forest 

floor (litter, duff, and humus layers) and surface 

soil from one place to another by mechanical 

forests such as a blade used in piling or 

windrowing. Mining of surface soil layers by 

chopping, or bedding operation are not 

considered displacement. 

Soil Erosion Type. A classification system that 

further defines erosion by running water, wind or 

gravitational creep that is used to determine 

watershed condition. 

Soil Quality. Long term soil productivity and soil 

hydrologic function. 

Soil Map Unit. A named portion of a landscape 

shown by a closed delineation and symbol on a 

soil map. Generally used to assess or monitor 

watershed condition, site productivity, and site 

capability. 

Soil Puddling. A physical change in soil 

properties due to shearing forces that alters soil 

structure and porosity. Puddling occurs when 

the soil is at or near liquid limit. 

Soil Structure. Structure is described by grade, 

class and type. Terms are used to describe the 

natural aggregates in the soil called peds in 

contrast to clods caused by disturbance, 

fragments by rupture of peds, and 

concentrations by local concentrations of 

compounds that irreversibly cement the soil 

grains together. The six structures, each with its 

own distinctive shape and arrangement, are: 

granular, platy, prismatic, columnar, angular 

blocky, sub-angular blocky, and structureless. 

Soil Texture. Texture refers to the relative 

proportions of clay, silt and sand (less than 2mm 

in diameter). Clay particles are the smallest, silt 

particles are intermediate and sand particles are 

the largest. Loams contain various mixtures of 

the three basic particle sizes. 

Soil and Water Conservation Practices 

(SWCPs). See BMP. 

Soil Compaction. The reduction of soil volume. 

For instance, the weight of heavy equipment on 

soils can compact the soil and thereby change it 

in some ways, such as its ability to absorb 

water. 

Soil Productivity. The capacity of a soil to 

produce a specific crop. Productivity depends on 

adequate moisture and soil nutrients, as well as 

favorable climate. 

Special Forest Products. Non-timber 

renewable plant products such as mushrooms, 

berries, flowers, etc. 

Special Use Permit. A permit issued to an 

individual or group by the USDA Forest Service 

for use of National Forest land for a special 

purpose. Examples might be a Boy Scout 

Jamboree or a mountain bike race. 

Species at Risk. Species which demonstrate a 

potential for loss of resilience or sustainability if 

disturbed. 

Stability. The resistance of a slope or 

embankment to failure by sliding or collapsing 

under normal conditions for which it was 

designed; e.g. bank stability, slope stability.

Standards and Guidelines. Requirements 

found in a Forest Plan which impose limits on 

natural resource management activities, 

generally for environmental protection. 

State Air Quality Regulations. The legal base 

for control of air pollution sources in that State. 

Prescribed burning is generally covered under 

these regulations. 
Glossary 

456 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

State Implementation Plan. A State plan that 

covers implementation, maintenance, and 

enforcement of primary and secondary 

standards in each air quality control Region, 

pursuant to section 110 of the Clean Air Act. 

Stewardship. Caring for land and associated 

resources and passing healthy ecosystems to 

future generations. 

Stream Channel. The defined bed and bank of 

a watercourse down which water travels. 

Stream Order. A numbering scheme used to 

characterize the relative position of stream 

channels within a drainage. First-order streams 

are those which have no tributaries. Secondorder streams are those which have as 

tributaries only first-order channels. Third-order 

streams are formed when two second-order 

channels come together. Stream order is used 

to analyze hydrologic response and fisheries. 

Stream Type. Alpha-numeric identification given 

to reoccurring stream channel types based on 

measurable morphological features such as 

channel gradient, width/depth ratio, dominant 

particle size of bed and bank materials, 

entrenchment of channel and confinement of 

channel in valley, and landform features, soil 

erodibility, and stability. 

Stream Width. The width of streams or rivers. 

Generally used to determine stream type, flood

hazard, instream flows, and riparian 

management. 

Streamflow. A measure of the volume of water 

passing a given point in a stream channel at a 

given point in time. 

Subject to the Highway Safety Act. National 

Forest System roads that are open to use by the

public for standard passenger cars. This 

includes roads with access restricted on a 

seasonal basis and roads closed during extreme 

weather conditions or for emergencies, but 

which are otherwise open for general public use. 

(FSM 7705 – Transportation System) 

Subwatershed. A drainage delineated for one 

of the streams within a National Forest System 

(NFS) watershed, often to analyze the effects of 

a proposed action. The subwatershed chosen 

for analysis may depend on the size and 

anticipated effects of a proposal. 

Succession. The natural replacement, in time, 

of one plant community with another. Conditions 

of the prior plant community (or successional 

stage) create conditions that are favorable for 

the establishment of the next stage. 

Successional Stage. A stage of development of 

a plant community as it moves from bare ground 

to climax. The grass-forb stage of succession 

precedes the woody shrub stage and so on. 

Surface Resources. Renewable resources that 

are on the surface of the earth, such as timber 

and forage, in contrast to ground water and 

minerals which are located beneath the surface. 

Suspended Sediment. Sediment which 

remains in suspension in the water for a 

considerable period of time without contact with 

the bottom of the water source and is generally 

recorded in parts per million or milligrams per 

liter. 

Sustainability. The ability of an ecosystem to 

maintain ecological processes and functions, 

biological diversity, and productivity over time.

Sustainable. The yield that a renewable 

resource can produce continuously at a given 

intensity of management is said to be 

sustainable. 

Target. A National Forest's annual goal for 

accomplishment for natural resource programs. 

Targets represent the commitment of the Forest 

Service has with Congress to accomplish the 

work Congress has funded, and are often used 

as a measure of the agency's performance. 

Temporary Road or Trail. A road or trail 

necessary for emergency operations or 

authorized by contract, permit, lease, or other 

written authorization that is not a forest road or 

trail and that is not included in a forest 

transportation atlas.

Terminal Facility. A transfer point between the 

forest transportation system and forest 

resources served by the system, or between 

different transportation modes, including parking 

areas, turnouts, boat ramps and docks, 

trailheads, marine access facilities, airfields, and 

heliports.

Terrestrial. Pertaining to the land. 

Thermal Cover. Cover used by animals to 

ameliorate effects of weather; for elk, a stand of 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 457

coniferous trees 40 feet or more tall with an 

average crown closure of 70 percent or more. 

Threatened and Endangered Species Habitat. 

Those areas currently or potentially occupied or 

utilized by threatened and endangered species. 

T&E Species habitat generally falls into one of 

several categories: critical habitat, proposed 

critical habitat, occupied habitat, or potential 

habitat. 

Threatened Species. Those plant or animal 

species likely to become endangered species 

throughout all or a significant portion of their 

range within the foreseeable future as 

designated by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service 

under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. 

Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL). From the 

Clean Water Act, an amount of a given pollutant 

that is allowed in a Water Quality Limited

Stream. 

Traditional Cultural Areas. Those areas of the 

forest used by Native American Indian tribes for 

traditional activities and often referred to as 

“religious use areas” or “sacred areas.” They 

may include areas traditionally used for 

gathering of special forest products.

Traffic Service Level. Describes the significant 

characteristics and operating conditions of a 

road. (FSH 7709.56, Ch 4 – Road 

Preconstruction Handbook, FSM 7705 – 

Transportation System) 

Trail. A route 50 inches or less in width or a 

route over 50 inches wide that is identified and 

managed as a trail. A trail may be a forest trail, a 

temporary trail, or an unauthorized or 

unclassified trail. (Derived from FS Manual 

2353.05, 2004 and FS Handbok 2309.18 – 

Trails Management, 1991.)

Transportation Facility Jurisdiction. The legal 

right to control or regulate use of a 

transportation facility derived from fee title, an 

easement, an agreement, or other similar 

method. While jurisdiction requires authority, it 

does not necessarily reflect ownership. (FSM 

7705 – Transportation System) 

Transportation System. All existing and 

proposed roads, trails, airfields, and other 

transportation facilities wholly or partly within or 

adjacent to and serving the National Forests and 

other areas administered by the Forest Service 

or intermingled private lands. 

Travel Management Atlas. An atlas that 

consists of a forest transportation atlas and a 

motor vehicle use map or maps. (USDA-Forest 

Service. 2004. 36 CFR Part 212, 251, 261, and 

295. Travel Management; Designated Routes 

and Areas for Motor Vehicle Use.)

Travelways. Term used to describe a variety of 

routes, trails, roads, and driveways. The term is 

generally used for motorized routes. 

Treatment – A term used to broadly refer to the 

vegetative changes made to meet management 

objectives. It may include thinning, cutting of 

undesirable trees, prescribed fire, salvage, or 

any manipulation of the vegetative conditions 

(Five Buttes EIS).

Treaty Resource. A resource associated with 

the language in a specific treaty, usually 

interpreted to include collections or association 

of species; not limited to a single species. For 

example: “fish” may include all fish species 

(some treaties included rights to erect temporary 

houses for curing fish); “roots and berries” may 

include a wide variety of plants that will 

encompass the nature of the plants as they were 

used historically; grasses are necessarily 

included for the treaty reserved right to graze 

cattle or livestock. Hunting rights may include all 

species of animals hunted in historic and 

prehistoric times. As these apply to the FS, they 

are public natural resources on national forest 

lands, to which American Indian tribes have 

reserved certain rights for taking or gathering.

Trend. The direction of change in ecological 

status of a plant community usually expressed 

as moving "toward", "away from", or "not 

apparent". 

Tribal Consultation. The designated process 

required for informing and consulting with all 

relevant Native American tribes prior to any 

undertaking on federal, state, or municipally 

owned lands.

Tribal/Treaty Resources. These resources 

include any cultural resources with ties to a 

given tribe, as well as current natural resources 

for which various Native American tribes have 

been granted specific rights under treaties with 

the U.S. government.

Tribe. Term used to designate any Native 

American Indian tribe, band, nation, or other 

organized group or community which is 
Glossary 

458 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

recognized as eligible for the special programs 

and services provided by the United States to 

Indians because of their status as Indians.

Turbidity. A measure of the optical property that 

causes light to be scattered and absorbed rather 

than transmitted in straight lines. 

Unauthorized Road or Trail. A road or trail that 

is not a forest road or trail or a temporary road or 

trail and that is not included in a forest 

transportation atlas. (USDA-Forest Service. 

2004. 36 CFR Part 212, 251, 261, and 295. 

Travel Management; Designated Routes and 

Areas for Motor Vehicle Use.) Also known as an 

unclassified road or trail. Unclassified Roads. 

Roads on National Forest System lands that are 

not managed as part of the forest transportation 

system, such as unplanned roads, abandoned 

travelways, and off-road vehicle tracks that have 

not been designated and managed as a trail; 

and those roads that were once under permit or 

other authorization and were not 

decommissioned upon the termination of the 

authorization (36 CFR 212.1, FSM 7705 – 

Transportation System). Unclassified roads are 

categorized into two types and recorded in the 

SYSTEM linear event. The two types are: UND 

– UNDETERMINED – Roads where long term 

purpose and need has yet to be determined 

NOT – NOT NEEDED – Roads not needed for 

long term management of national forest 

resources as determined through an appropriate 

planning document. 

Upland Habitat. Habitat located outside of 

riparian areas or wetlands. Soils are not 

saturated throughout the growing season. 

Unplanned Ignitions – a fire started at random 

by either natural or human causes, or a 

deliberate incendiary fire (Deschutes LRMP)

Vegetation Type. A plant community with 

distinguishable characteristics. 

Vertebrate. Species having a backbone or 

spinal column. 

Water Quality Limited Segment (WQLS). A 

stream or segment of a stream which has been 

listed by the State as water quality limited for 

one or more parameters such as temperature, 

sediment, contaminants, etc. Required by 

section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act. 

Water Quality Limited Stream (WQLS). Water 

bodies (or segments of water bodies) listed by 

EPA as not meeting State water quality 

standards. They are to be monitored to 

determine if water quality standards are, or are 

not, being met. On those not meeting standards, 

TMDLs may be assigned. 

Water Table. The upper surface of groundwater. 

Below it, the soil is saturated with water. 

Water Uses. The status of water uses subject to 

State water laws that is used to determine the 

water uses and legal status of waters on the 

National Forests. 

Water Yield. The run-off from a watershed, 

including groundwater outflow. 

Watershed. The entire region drained by a 

waterway (or into a lake or reservoir). More 

specifically, a watershed is an area of land 

above a given point on a stream that contributes 

water to the stream flow at that point. 

Wet Areas. Often referred to as "moist sites," 

they are very important components of elk 

summer range. These sites, often occurring at 

the heads of drainages, may be wet sedge 

meadows, bogs, or seeps. 

Wetland. Those areas that are inundated or 

saturated by surface or ground water at a 

frequency and duration sufficient to support, and 

that under normal circumstances do support, a 

prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for 

life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands 

generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and 

similar areas (USACE, 1987). Wetlands are 

mapped based on hydrologic indicators, hydric 

soils, and hydrophytic vegetation that are 

characteristic and indicative of frequently wetted 

areas. 

Wetlands. Areas that are permanently wet or 

are intermittently covered with water. 

Wilderness (Wilderness Area). Undeveloped 

federal land retaining its primeval character, 

without permanent human habitation or 

improvements; It is protected and managed to 

preserve its natural condition. Wilderness Areas 

are designated by Congress. 

Wildland Fire. Any non-structure fire which 

occurs in the wildland. Wildland fires are 

categorized into two distinct types: 

a. Wildfires – Unplanned ignitions or 

prescribed fires that are declared 

wildfires 
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 459

b. Prescribed Fires - Planned ignitions. 

Wildland/Urban Interface. The line, area, or 

zone where structures and other human 

development meet or intermingle with 

undeveloped wildland or vegetative fuels. The 

area where humans and their development meet 

or intermingle with undeveloped wildland or 

vegetative fuels. 

Wildlife Habitat Diversity. The distribution and 

abundance of different plant and animal 

communities and species within a specific area. 

Windthrow. Trees that have been uprooted by 

the wind.

Xeric. Characterized by or adopted to a dry 

environment (Deschutes LRMP) 

Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 461

Index

A

air quality, xxix, 21, 154, 155, 333, 336, 337, 368

analysis, xviii, xix, xx, xxiii, 1, 10, 17, 26, 29, 30, 31, 44, 46, 

49, 61, 62, 64, 66, 68, 79, 97, 107, 108, 111, 133, 148, 

149, 170, 171, 175, 177, 178, 179, 180, 181, 182, 193, 

195, 199, 202, 213, 214, 216, 217, 222, 234, 237, 238, 

246, 254, 256, 259, 260, 271, 277, 279, 282, 284, 288, 

289, 291, 292, 294, 299, 300, 301, 319, 323, 330, 333, 

338, 341, 345, 347, 348, 350, 365, 368, 369, 370, 372, 

373, 375, 376, 378, 383, 384, 385, 395

aquatic, 182, 183, 184, 193, 194, 198, 202, 210, 214, 216, 

261, 381

C

Clean Water Act, xxiv, 210, 214, 218, 228, 234, 381

Consultation, 199, 294, 381

contributors, 222

cultural resources, 22

cumulative, 409

D

detrimental, 250, 252, 268, 334, 344

E

effects, xviii, xix, xxi, xxii, xxiii, xxiv, xxvii, xxviii, xxix, 1, 

12, 13, 14, 18, 20, 30, 33, 49, 50, 61, 62, 65, 66, 68, 93, 

96, 97, 101, 102, 103, 104, 107, 113, 125, 127, 138, 

139, 146, 149, 150, 153, 156, 170, 177, 178, 180, 181, 

183, 184, 189, 190, 191, 193, 194, 195, 196, 197, 198, 

199, 201, 208, 210, 221, 234, 235, 242, 243, 246, 250, 

251, 253, 255, 257, 258, 267, 278, 286, 294, 302, 309, 

319, 341, 345, 362, 366

erosion, xxi, xxiii, 16, 18, 22, 101, 135, 181, 190, 204, 208, 

217, 235, 237, 240, 244, 248, 266, 337, 342, 349, 364

F

fire, xxviii, xxix, 21, 71, 101, 135, 153, 196, 219, 242, 248, 

284, 301, 327, 334, 369

fuels, 14, 20, 29, 284, 288, 289, 326, 371

H

heritage resources, xxviii, 22, 337, 342

I

indicators, xviii, xix, 12, 14, 125

interdisciplinary team, xxix, 12, 63, 362

Inventoried Roadless Area, xix, xx, 8, 13, 46, 47, 94, 110

issues, xix, 1, 12, 30, 49, 123, 245, 385, 393

K

key, 14, 34, 39, 49, 61, 135, 139, 140, 309, 314, 368

L

livestock grazing, 319, 324

M

management, xvii, xix, xxii, xxvii, xxix, 4, 5, 14, 21, 22, 23, 

67, 73, 86, 99, 107, 150, 171, 179, 184, 214, 215, 239, 

248, 262, 284, 292, 295, 323, 345

minerals, xxiv, 234, 238, 284

mining, xxiv, 234, 238, 268, 335, 338

mitigation, 180, 284, 376, 385

monitoring, 75, 78, 262, 389

motorized access for dispersed camping, xvii, xviii, xxii, 

xxiii, xxv, 18, 19, 25, 33, 62, 97, 109, 149, 181, 210, 

234, 247, 258, 278, 288, 301, 330, 337, 346, 366

N

no action alternative, xxiii, 177, 181, 365

Northwest Forest Plan, xxiv, 190, 202, 210, 216, 266, 275, 

348

Notice of Intent, 8, 9, 385

noxious weeds, 279

O

OHV, xvii, xxiii, 3, 4, 14, 17, 26, 27, 39, 45, 61, 62, 69, 78, 

101, 109, 118, 171, 178, 210, 239, 249, 267, 280, 305, 

329, 341, 350, 373

overstory, 207, 258, 289

P

public involvement, 31, 107, 384, 385

purpose and need, xxix, 47, 49, 50, 362

R

recreation, xviii, xxi, xxix, 4, 12, 15, 25, 28, 35, 48, 49, 66, 

75, 97, 107, 150, 171, 215, 218, 240, 243, 252, 260, 

281, 300, 330, 336, 337, 363

recreation opportunity spectrum, 67

restoration, 64, 255, 256, 292, 344

riparian, xviii, xxiv, xxvii, 13, 18, 19, 22, 77, 91, 106, 107, 

135, 145, 182, 190, 210, 239, 250, 258, 260, 310, 319, 

338, 342, 346, 352, 368, 379, 380, 382
462 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

S

scenery, xxii, 75, 76, 80, 90, 131, 150, 346, 347, 376

sediment, xxiii, xxiv, 18, 181, 183, 190, 207, 210, 214, 215, 

221, 222, 235, 237, 243, 249, 250, 251, 345, 381

soils, xviii, xxv, 13, 18, 19, 22, 47, 71, 101, 141, 164, 190, 

202, 235, 246, 247, 248, 249, 253, 261, 267, 270, 336, 

337, 364, 366, 379

suppression, xxviii, 288, 289, 369

T

treatments, xxvi, 14, 20, 29, 279, 288, 289, 291, 368, 371

tribes, 37, 338, 340, 394, 395

Tribes, 112, 215, 216, 341, 384, 394, 395

turbidity, xxiii, 181, 191, 193, 194, 197, 210, 214, 217, 225, 

232, 381

W

water quality, xxiv, 18, 194, 198, 210, 214, 215, 216, 217, 

225, 226, 228, 230, 231, 234, 244, 250, 366, 381

watersheds, 11, 63, 120, 150, 182, 184, 190, 194, 199, 202, 

204, 214, 215, 221, 249

wetlands, xxiii, xxiv, 18, 19, 44, 182, 183, 191, 192, 197, 

208, 210, 214, 217, 222, 225, 226, 234, 238, 243, 250, 

251, 260, 276, 308, 345, 368, 382

wilderness potential, xix, 13

wildfire, xxvi, 20, 29, 136, 196, 288, 333, 349, 364

wildlife, xviii, 11, 13, 16, 20, 62, 64, 75, 76, 77, 82, 83, 84, 

99, 101, 121, 122, 148, 150, 164, 169, 176, 194, 239, 

263, 294, 295, 300, 302, 303, 304, 305, 306, 307, 310, 

314, 326, 347, 350, 366, 381, 382, 383
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 463

United States 

Department of

Agriculture

Forest 

Service

Region 6

August 2011 

Appendices A and E

Final Environmental 

Impact Statement

Travel Management 

Project 

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National 

Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 

Deschutes, Jefferson, Crook, Klamath, Lake, 

Grant and Wheeler Counties, Oregon
Appendix A: Maps

464 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Appendix A - Maps

Figure 42. Map A-1 – Alternative 1 motorized access off designated routes (cross-country travel) Deschutes 

National Forest
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 465

Figure 43. Map A-2 – Alternative 2 and 3 motorized access off designated routes – Deschutes National Forest
Appendix A: Maps

466 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 44. Map A-3 - Alternative 1 motorized access off designated routes, Ochoco National Forest
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 467

Figure 45. Map A-4 - Alternatives 2 and 3 motorized access off designated routes, Ochoco National Forest
Appendix A: Maps

468 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 46. Map A-5 Alternative 1 motorized access for dispersed camping, Deschutes National Forest
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 469

Figure 47. Map A-6 – Alternative 2 and 3 motorized access for dispersed camping, Deschutes National Forest
Appendix A: Maps

470 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 48. Map A-7 – Alternative 1 existing condition, Ochoco National Forest
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 471

Figure 49. Map A-8 – Alternative 2 and 3 – Motorized access for dispersed camping, Ochoco National Forest
Appendix A: Maps

472 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 50. Map A-9 – Mixed use roads, Deschutes National Forest
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 473

Figure 51. Map A-10 – Mixed use roads, Ochoco National Forest
Appendix A: Maps

474 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland

Figure 52. Map A-11 – Inventoried Roadless Areas, Deschutes National Forest
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 475

Figure 53. Map A-12 – Inventoried Roadless Areas, Ochoco National Forest

Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 477

Appendix E – Letters from Agencies
Appendix E: Letters from Agencies

478 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 479
Appendix E: Letters from Agencies

480 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 481
Appendix E: Letters from Agencies

482 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 483
Appendix E: Letters from Agencies

484 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 485
Appendix E: Letters from Agencies

486 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 487
Appendix E: Letters from Agencies

488 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 489
Appendix E: Letters from Agencies

490 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 491
Appendix E: Letters from Agencies

492 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 493
Appendix E: Letters from Agencies

494 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 495
Appendix E: Letters from Agencies

496 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 497
Appendix E: Letters from Agencies

498 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 499
Appendix E: Letters from Agencies

500 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 501
Appendix E: Letters from Agencies

502 Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland
Travel Management Final Environmental Impact Statement

Deschutes National Forest, Ochoco National Forest, and Crooked River National Grassland 503