Fortine Ranger District 

Kootenai National Forest 

September 2006 
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Printed on Recycled Paper

Artwork created by Frank Kujawa, Fortine Ranger District
Trego Environmental Assessment 

Kootenai National Forest 

Fortine Ranger District

Lincoln County, Montana

September 2006 

 Responsible Agency: USDA Forest Service

 Responsible Official: Betty Holder, District Ranger

 Kootenai National Forest 

 P.O. Box 116

 Fortine, MT 59918

 (406) 882-4451

 

 For Further Information Contact: Joleen Dunham, Team Leader

 Fortine Ranger District

 14333 Highway 93 South

 Fortine, Montana 59918

 (406) 882-8325 

Abstract: This Environmental Assessment documents the detailed analysis of four alternatives, including the No 

Action Alternative, which was developed for the Trego Project. The alternatives respond differently to the major 

issues of impacts to old growth habitat effectiveness and increased timber harvest. Alternative B is the Proposed 

Action and includes timber harvest, natural and activity fuel reduction treatments, watershed rehabilitation, and 

access management activities. Alternative C also includes these activities, but addresses the old growth issue 

through modifying or eliminating treatments in old growth habitat. Alternative D includes some of the activities 

associated with Alternative B but addresses the increased timber harvest issue through addition of regeneration 

and intermediate harvest treatments. Alternative A is the No Action Alternative. 

Reviewers should provide the Forest Service with their comments during the review period of the EA. This will 

enable the Forest Service to analyze and respond to the comments at one time and to use information acquired to 

avoid undue delay in the decision making process. Reviewers have an obligation to structure their participation in 

the National Environmental Policy Act process so that it is meaningful and alerts the agency to the reviewer's 

position and contentions. Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Corp. v. NRDC, 435 U.S. 519, 553 (1978). 

Environmental objections that could have been raised at the draft stage may be waived if not raised until after 

completion of the final environmental impact statement. City of Angoon v. Hodel (9th Circuit, 1986) and 

Wisconsin Heritages, Inc. v. Harris, 490 F. Supp. 1334, 1338 9E.D. Wis., 1980). Comments on the EA should be 

specific and should address the adequacy of the assessment or the merits of the alternatives discussed (40 CFR 

1503.3). Comments should also be directed at identifying specific environmental concerns that could result in 

significant effects from this project. Comments received in response to this solicitation, including the names of the 

respondents, are a part of the public record and will be available for public inspection. Comments submitted 

anonymously will be accepted and considered. However, persons who submit anonymous comments may not 

have legal standing to appeal the subsequent decision under 36 CFR 215. 

Comments on this EA should be sent to Betty Holder, District Ranger, Fortine Ranger District, P.O. Box 116, 

Fortine, Montana 59918; or by facsimile (406) 882-4835, or hand-delivered between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 

4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. In accordance with 36 CFR 215.5, comments must be postmarked or received 

30 days following the date of publication of the legal notice in the newspaper of record (The Daily Inter Lake of 

Kalispell, MT). Comments should be substantive and specific to the proposed activities and area being analyzed. 

They should include: (1) name, address, telephone number, and organization represented, if any; (2) title of the 

document on which the comment is being submitted; (3) specific facts and supporting reasons for the 

Responsible Official to consider; and (4) signatures. 
Table of Contents 

Trego EA

Table of Contents - i 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

CHAPTER 1 - PURPOSE AND NEED 

Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................ 1-1 

Analysis Area Description .................................................................................................................................. 1-1 

Purpose and Need for Action............................................................................................................................. 1-2 

Proposed Action................................................................................................................................................. 1-2 

Scope of the Proposed Action ......................................................................................................................... 1-15 

Scope of the Analysis....................................................................................................................................... 1-15 

Past Actions ..................................................................................................................................................... 1-16 

Current and Reasonably Foreseeable Actions ................................................................................................ 1-18 

Decisions to be Made....................................................................................................................................... 1-21 

Other Agencies with Jurisdiction/Permit Requirements................................................................................... 1-22 

EA Organization ............................................................................................................................................... 1-22 

Chapter 1 Maps

Vicinity Map............................................................................................................................................... MAP 1-1 

Map of Past Actions .................................................................................................................................. MAP 1-2 

CHAPTER 2 – ALTERNATIVES 

Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................ 2-1 

Alternative Development Process...................................................................................................................... 2-1 

 Issue Identification ....................................................................................................................................... 2-2 

 Range of Alternatives................................................................................................................................... 2-4 

Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Study ............................................................................ 2-5 

Alternatives Considered in Detail....................................................................................................................... 2-7 

Alternative A – No Action............................................................................................................................. 2-7 

Activities Common to the Action Alternatives.............................................................................................. 2-7 

Alternative B .............................................................................................................................................. 2-15 

Alternative C .............................................................................................................................................. 2-17 

Alternative D ............................................................................................................................................. 2-20 

Comparison of Alternatives.............................................................................................................................. 2-23 

Design Criteria ................................................................................................................................................. 2-26 

Chapter 2 Maps

Resource Enhancement Projects ............................................................................................................ MAP 2-1 

Alternative B - Timber Harvest and Fuel Reduction ................................................................................ MAP 2-2 

Alternative C - Timber Harvest and Fuel Reduction ................................................................................. MAP 2-3 

Alternative D - Timber Harvest and Fuel Reduction ................................................................................. MAP 2-4 

Alternative B - Proposed Road Management .......................................................................................... MAP 2-5 

Alternative C - Proposed Road Management ........................................................................................... MAP 2-6 

Alternative C - Proposed Road Management ........................................................................................... MAP 2-7 

 

CHAPTER 3 - AFFECTED ENVIRONMENTAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES 

Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................ 3-1 

Relationship to the Forest Plan.......................................................................................................................... 3-1 

Forest Plan Management Area Direction........................................................................................................... 3-1 

Soil Resources ................................................................................................................................................... 3-4 

Forest Vegetation............................................................................................................................................. 3-15 

Noxious Weeds ................................................................................................................................................ 3-33 

Threatened and Sensitive Plants ..................................................................................................................... 3-39 
Table of Contents 

Trego EA

Table of Contents -ii 

Fire/Fuels ......................................................................................................................................................... 3-44 

Air Quality......................................................................................................................................................... 3-56 

Water Resources ............................................................................................................................................. 3-63 

Fisheries........................................................................................................................................................... 3-79 

Wildlife Resources .......................................................................................................................................... 3-91 

Recreation...................................................................................................................................................... 3-182 

Scenic ........................................................................................................................................................... 3-187 

Lands ............................................................................................................................................................. 3-192 

Minerals.......................................................................................................................................................... 3-195 

Cultural Resources ........................................................................................................................................ 3-197 

Tribal Consultation ......................................................................................................................................... 3-200 

Range Resources .......................................................................................................................................... 3-202 

Transportation................................................................................................................................................ 3-209 

Economics...................................................................................................................................................... 3-222 

Required Disclosures..................................................................................................................................... 3-227 

Chapter 3 Maps

Management Areas................................................................................................................................... MAP 3-1 

Soil Resource............................................................................................................................................ MAP 3-2 

Vegetative Response Units (VRU) ........................................................................................................... MAP 3-3 

Wildland Urban Interface .......................................................................................................................... MAP 3-4 

Watersheds............................................................................................................................................... MAP 3-5 

Cumulative Effects Watersheds................................................................................................................ MAP 3-6 

Existing Condition – Old Growth Habitat .................................................................................................. MAP 3-7 

White-tailed Deer Subherds...................................................................................................................... MAP 3-8 

Lynx Habitat .............................................................................................................................................. MAP 3-9 

Range Allotments.................................................................................................................................... MAP 3-10 

Existing Road Management.................................................................................................................... MAP 3-11 

APPENDICES 

No Effect Rationale for Wildlife and Fish Species ................................................................................Appendix A 

Best Management Practices.................................................................................................................Appendix B 

Monitoring Plan .....................................................................................................................................Appendix C 

Bibliography ..........................................................................................................................................Appendix D 

List of Preparers....................................................................................................................................Appendix E 
Chapter 1 Purpose and Need 
Purpose and Need

Trego EA 

Purpose and Need 1-1 

CHAPTER ONE 

Purpose and Need 

INTRODUCTION 

This chapter identifies the Purpose and Need for action, the Proposed Action, the Scope of the 

Proposed Action, and the Decisions to be Made. 

The Fortine Ranger District is comprised of 10 planning subunits averaging 25,000 acres in size. The 

proposals in this project were developed from a broad-scale assessment of the Trego Subunit 

(USDA Forest Service, November, 2004). The District evaluated recommendations made in that 

assessment, based on the need for action, to formulate this project. The Trego Ecosystem 

Assessment and other documents referred to in this EA are located in the Trego Project File and are 

available upon request. 

ANALYSIS AREA DESCRIPTION 

The Trego Analysis Area is in the northwest corner of Montana located approximately 25 miles 

southeast of Eureka near the community of Trego and is approximately 22,039 acres. The analysis 

area is bounded on the west by Fortine Creek and includes the Brimstone, Lime, Magnesia, Stewart, 

Jim and Butcher Creek drainages. Sunday Mountain at 5485 feet, is the highest point and lies along 

the area’s eastern border (See Vicinity Map, MAP 1-1). 

The analysis area can be accessed by Forest Road 36. The east-west route of the Burlington 

Northern Santa Fe Railroad runs midway through the analysis area before entering a seven-milelong underground tunnel that runs south into the Wolf Creek Watershed. 

Sixty-seven percent of the land area is comprised of National Forest System Lands with parcels of 

the remaining 7,264 acres held by private landowners and the State of Montana. See Map 1-1 for a 

display of federal and non-federal lands in the analysis area. 

Two attributes stand out when visiting the Trego Area. The first is the diversity of the forest which 

transitions from warm-dry larch and Douglas-fir stands to cool-moist spruce and subalpine fir stands. 

These stands are highly productive, with portions being logged in the past. Small streams running 

through the area nourish important riparian habitat with clean water. 

The amount of human use is the second important attribute. The area is well-roaded and the 

inclusion of a “Walk-In” Hunting Area provides a challenging hunting experience for fall visitors. The 

amount of private land, intermingled with public land, is apparent and creates special opportunities 

for consideration. Elimination of wildfire has caused a shift in vegetative patterns resulting in potential 

long-term forest health decline. 

The most common recreational use in the area is associated with hunting. Three Outfitter and Guide 

permits exist, two of them are for hunting but are administered by the Rexford Ranger District since 

the majority of permitted use is on that district. Other recreation opportunities include firewood 

gathering, fishing, hiking, snowmobiling, wildlife viewing, and driving for pleasure. There are no 

developed recreation sites, trails, or Inventoried Roadless Areas located in the analysis area. 
Chapter 1

Trego EA 

1-2 Purpose and Need 

PURPOSE AND NEED FOR ACTION 

A broad-scale assessment of the Trego Analysis Area identified resource conditions that did not 

meet long-term management objectives. Resource specialists identified needs by comparing past 

and present forest conditions as well as desired conditions based on a review of scientific literature. 

In addition, our analysis identified potential opportunities to contribute to the overall Forest Service 

Mission through activities in the Trego Analysis Area. This assessment of needs and opportunities 

was also based on direction in the Kootenai Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service, 1987a) and National 

Fire Plan (USDA Forest Service and USDI Bureau of Land Management, 2000), Analysis of the 

Management Situation Technical Report for the Revision of the Kootenai and Idaho Panhandle 

Forest Plans (USDA Forest Service, 2003a), and the Northern Region Overview (USDA Forest 

Service, 1998a). 

TREGO MANAGEMENT PROPOSAL 

WHO: The USDA Forest Service, Kootenai National Forest, Fortine Ranger District proposes to 

contribute to the overall Forest Service Mission through management activities in the Trego Analysis 

Area. 

WHY and WHAT: 

The following table (Table 1-1) shows the number of acres of vegetation management, fuels 

management, miles of watershed rehabilitation activities, and miles of road and trail management 

included in the Proposed Action. Please refer to Chapter 2 for definitions of the following 

management activities. 

Table 1-1. Summary of the Proposed Action

Special Requirements 

This proposal includes harvest openings greater than 40 acres. If these large openings are proposed 

in the preferred alternative in the Trego Environmental Assessment, a 60 day public review period 

Vegetation Management 1,452 acres 

Regeneration Harvest 390 acres 

Intermediate Harvest 1014 acres 

Uneven-aged Management 48 acres 

Fuels Management 912 acres 

Fuels Treatment with Manipulation 182 acres 

Underburning 730 acres 

Road and Trail Management 

Additions to the National Forest Road System 3.52 miles 

Road Decommissioning 12.47 miles 

Road Resurfacing 3.8 miles 

Road Storage (Intermittent Stored Service) 0.44 miles 

Yearlong Road Restrictions 7.2 miles 

Seasonal Road Restrictions 7.5 miles 

Additions to the National Forest Trail System 9.3 miles 

Road Maintenance and Improvements (BMPs) 45.68 miles 

Utility Lines buried on National Forest System Roads 1.1 miles 

Right-of-way easements needed to access two isolated parcels of 

National Forest Land 

0.7 miles of State Lands 

1.7 miles of Private Lands 

Analysis Area designated as an area closed to public wheeled 

motorized use, except on designated roads. 

A total of 59.5 miles of road 

designated for open travel. 
Purpose and Need

Trego EA 

Purpose and Need 1-3 

would be provided. Approval by the Regional Forester for exceeding the 40 acre opening limitation 

for regeneration harvest would be required prior to the signing of the Decision Notice. 

WHY AND WHAT in DETAIL:

Desired Future Conditions, Purpose and Need, and 

Proposed Action Statements 

Although these statements of purpose and need are described separately, each is an integral part of 

our approach to fulfilling the agency mission. These purpose and need statements are described in 

more detail in the following section. 

Desired Future Conditions for ROADS and TRAILS: THE MINIMUM TRANSPORTATION 

SYSTEM NECESSARY HAS BEEN IDENTIFIED AND MANAGED SO: 

1) There is safe and efficient access for FS land management activities and FS fire 

suppression. 

A. Purpose and Need Statement:

The Trego Roads Analysis identified roads that are needed and roads that are not needed. Roads 

were analyzed as either classified (system) or unclassified (non-system). Several unclassified roads 

are needed for the long-term transportation system and should be added to the classified road 

system. The existing management of the roads would be retained and closure devices that are 

currently in place would remain. 

As directed in the new Roads Policy Forest Service Manual 7700 and Rule 36 under the Code of 

Federal Regulations Part 212, roads identified as not needed should be decommissioned or 

converted to another use. A total of 10.24 miles of road are not needed for timber, minerals, fire 

suppression, silviculture, other forest resource access or private access; and have low recreation or 

public access value. All of these roads, except for 3605B, are very low standard roads that would 

require major reconstruction to meet current standards for safety and efficiency. Some of these 

roads may also be negatively affecting habitat for threatened, endangered, and sensitive wildlife 

species, contributing sediment to streams, or negatively affecting wildlife security. If these roads 

were needed, the cost of reconstruction to bring them up to acceptable standards along with the road 

maintenance cost of meeting State Best Management Practices (BMPs) is estimated to be 

$132,600.00. The cost of decommissioning these roads is estimated to be $17,000.00. 

 

There is over 21 miles of deteriorating aggregate surfacing on five collector roads in the Trego Area. 

The aggregate surface on roads 865, 3730, 3732, 3762, and 3780 has been in place for nearly 40 

years. Much of this surfacing is worn thin, contaminated with dirt, or completely removed due to 

traffic and years of road grading. These roads need to be resurfaced to prevent further deterioration 

and contamination, and to restore the BMP effectiveness the aggregate provides for water quality. 

The cost to accomplish all of the needed resurfacing would most likely be beyond the funding 

capabilities of this project. However, the need for resurfacing should be addressed and initiated with 

this project. 

Proposed Action Statements: (See Map 2-5) 

• Convert unclassified Roads 14247, 15173, 15824, 3771A, 3772 and 851B to classified 

National Forest System Roads. These roads will be managed with yearlong restrictions. A 

total of 3.52 miles of road would become National Forest System Roads (NFSR). 

• Decommission unneeded classified National Forest System Roads 14250, 14251, 14273, 

865G, 871C, 3605B, 3781A, 3784 and 3787B totaling 3.32 miles. Decommission 

unclassified Roads 14246, 14252, 14253, 14255, 14257, 14259, 14263, 14265, 15173A, 

15824, 871D, 3722B, 3727A, 3730F, 3770B, 3770C, 3770G, 3772A, 3780A, 3780B, 3780C, 
Chapter 1

Trego EA 

1-4 Purpose and Need 

3780D, 3781D, 3781F, 3781G, 3781H, 3784, 3784A, totaling 9.15 miles. The total proposed 

road decommissioning is 12.47 miles.

• Use local stockpiles of aggregate in the Trego-Fortine Area to resurface the first 3.8 miles of 

the Jim Creek Road 3730. Initiate planning and funding options for future resurfacing of 

other collector roads in the Trego Analysis Area. The total for road resurfacing is 3.8 miles.

• Place the end portion of Road 3722 into intermittent stored service. Access is not needed on 

this portion of the road for the next 10 to 20 years. This action would reduce road 

maintenance costs and road-related effects to the watershed. The total proposed for road 

storage is 0.44 miles.

B. Purpose and Need Statement:

Currently there are two blocks of National Forest System Land, SE1/4, NE1/4 of Section 26; SE1/4, 

SW1/4, SW1/4, SE1/4 of Section 26 and NE1/4, NW1/4 of Section 35, T33N R26W, 40 acres and 

120 acres respectively, that the Forest Service does not have legal access to. To manage these 

parcels of National Forest Systems Lands safely and efficiently, there is a need to obtain legal 

access. 

Proposed Action Statements: (See Map 2-5) 

To obtain legal right-of-way access to two isolated parcels of National Forest Land, a 40-acre 

parcel and a 120-acre parcel, initiate the following: 

• Open the currently restricted yearlong portion of Road 3762, which leads into State owned 

lands. 

• Pursue easements through State Lands and all applicable landowners to gain access on 

existing roads that lead to the two parcels. 

• Restrict yearlong the last 0.6 miles of Road 3762A, to compensate for opening Road 3762 

and maintain existing open road densities for the area. 

These actions will provide the legal access needed to manage the parcels of land that have not 

had access to in the past. 

Right-of-way easements are needed for crossing approximately 0.7 miles of State Lands and 

approximately 1.7 miles of private lands, which includes several different owners. 

2) There is reasonable and safe access to private land and private utilities when required by 

law. 

A. Purpose and Need Statements:

Currently there is a 40-acre block of private land, located in the SE1/4, SE1/4 of Section 14 

T33N R26W owned by a development company. Access for utilities will be requested at some point 

in the near future. The feasible utility access is from the north and east. Access from the west is not 

physically feasible. 

Currently there is a 160-acre block of private land, located in NE1/4 of Section 23 T33 26W, that is 

split into five lots. Access for utilities will be requested at some point in the near future. The feasible 

utility access is from the east. Access from the west and north is not physically feasible. 

Currently utilities are provided to a portion of the private land in Section 25 of T33N R26W. Additional 

private landowners within this section and in Section 36 are not currently being served, but will 

eventually request utilities. Forest Service Road 3730 crosses these properties. If cross country 

utility access is not physically feasible, the utilities will be requesting access to these private parcels 

along the Right-Of-Way of Road 3730. 
Purpose and Need

Trego EA 

Purpose and Need 1-5 

Proposed Action Statement: (See Map 2-5) 

• Permit utility companies (electric and phone) to bury cable along right-of-way of Roads 

3762B, 3762, 3762C and 3730.These actions will provide for reasonable and safe access to 

private land and for private utilities. The buried utility lines will be allowed on 1.1 miles of 

National Forest System Roads. 

B. Purpose and Need Statement:

The only access for the private landowner in Section 14, T33N R26W is from the Fortine Creek 

Road #36 but this is sometimes blocked by railroad activities. The railroad uses this area to stop and 

check for objects when their dragging sensors go off before entering the tunnel. Although the railroad 

can move the train if requested, it is still a delay if an emergency should occur. Road 3762B would 

provide emergency access to this private property if the Forest Service earthen barrier on the road 

near the property boundary were removed. 

Proposed Action Statement: 

• Remove the earthen barrier located near the property boundary on Road 3762B to allow 

secondary residential emergency access. This action will provide for reasonable and safe 

access to private land and for private utilities. Removing the barrier will not increase the 

open road densities on Forest System Lands because the road being opened is located on 

private land. 

3) There is suitable and safe access for recreation and other public access values. 

A. Purpose and Need Statement: 

Bear Paw Lake: Currently there is use of the yearlong restricted portion of Road 3781 and Road 

3781B as a loop trail for biking, hiking and horseback riding. There is a gap between the end of the 

yearlong restricted portion of Road 3781 and the end of road 3781B (entire road restricted yearlong). 

Users have created a path to connect the two roads. 

Sunday Mountain: An old road, 3730C, which connected the Jim Creek Road 3730 to the top of 

Sunday Mountain, is no longer needed. This old roadbed could serve as a good a location for a 

system trail. Rather than decommission the road, an opportunity exists to convert the 2.5 miles of 

this road to a system trail. The new trail could loop along Road 3732 and Road 3702 and tie back 

into the trail near its beginning creating a 7.3 mile loop trail. An adequate trailhead would need to be 

developed. It may be possible to use the existing quarry on Road 3730C as a trailhead. 

Proposed Action Statements: (See Map 2-5) 

• Bear Paw Lake Trail: Build a trail (0.16 miles) to connect the end of Roads 3781 and 

3781B. Utilize these two roads to complete a loop trail from Bear Paw Lake. The trail loop 

would total approximately 2 miles and would allow for non-motorized use except Road 

3781 would be open to snow vehicles December 1st to April 30th. District trail crews would 

be responsible for brushing and blowdown removal to keep the trail surface open on the 

restricted roads also used as a trail. Part of the 2-mile loop includes 0.3 miles of open 

Road 3781, which will be regularly maintained by road maintenance funds. Any BMP 

roadwork needed for these roads would be Engineering’s road maintenance responsibility. 

• Sunday Mountain Trail: Convert the unclassified portion of Road 3730C, a length of 2.5 

miles, to a system trail. Utilize Roads 3732 and 3702 as a trail loop, and build 

approximately 0.5 miles of new trail to complete the loop. The trail loop would total 

approximately 7.3 miles and would allow for non-motorized use except it would be open to 

snow vehicles from December 1st to April 30th. Roads 3702 and 3732 would also be open 

May 1st to June 30th to motorized use, excluding snow vehicles. The system road portions 
Chapter 1

Trego EA 

1-6 Purpose and Need 

of this trail would continue to be maintained with road maintenance funds. District trail 

crews would maintain the converted road and new trail segments, which total three miles. 

These actions would improve recreational access and values, and help to reduce road maintenance 

costs. 

4) Threatened, endangered, sensitive, and management indicator species habitat needs, as 

defined by research and science, have been met. 

A. Purpose and Need Statement: 

Currently, there are 8.7 miles of road open from December 1st to April 30th within Management Area 

(MA11) Big Game Winter Range. Forest Plan standards for MA 11 state “roads will normally be 

restricted during periods of big game winter use (December 1st to April 30th)”. To meet these 

standards, a need exists to restrict roads within MA 11. A large portion of Forest Service roads in MA 

11 provide yearlong residential access and cannot be restricted, however approximately 3.7 miles of 

road within MA 11 offer opportunities for restriction or decommissioning (many of these roads extend 

beyond the MA 11 boundary and the actual miles for these opportunities will be higher). 

The White-tailed Deer Trego Subherd Area was designated by Forest Service and State biologists 

as the area that is used by deer herds in the winter and is a larger area than the MA 11 boundary. 

These areas function as winter range. Winter range direction is that roads should normally be 

restricted during periods of deer winter use (December 1st to April 30th). There are currently 21.15 

miles of open road within the Trego Subherd boundary. A large portion of the Forest Service roads 

within the subherd boundary provides yearlong residential access and cannot be restricted. 

Opportunities exist for restricting or decommissioning approximately 6.8 miles of road (many of these 

roads extend beyond the subherd boundary and the actual miles for these opportunities will be 

higher) to meet the deer subherd direction. 

Currently there are 6.7 miles of open road segments actually within or adjacent to MA 13, 

Designated Old Growth Habitat. Forest Plan standards for MA 13 state “local roads will be restricted 

to prevent premature cutting of the snag component.” To meet Forest Plan standards, the need 

exists to restrict local roads in MA 13. Collector roads comprise 4.4 miles of the total open road 

segments within old growth and will remain open. Another 0.4 miles are local roads providing year 

round residential access, which cannot be restricted. That leaves the opportunity to restrict yearlong 

or decommission 1.9 miles of road segments within or adjacent to MA13 boundaries. It is not 

practical to restrict only the road segments within old growth if they are in the middle or at the 

beginning of the road, or if they leave only a very short segment at the end of the road open. 

Therefore, the complete length of roads that could be restricted or decommissioned for MA 13 Old 

Growth would total 7.24 miles (3.59 miles yearlong restrictions and 3.65 miles decommissioned). 

Proposed Action Statements: (See Map 2-5) 

• MA 11 Winter Range: Restrict Roads 851A, 851B, 15824, 3771A, totaling 1.59 miles, 

yearlong to motorized vehicles, including snow vehicles, to meet Forest Plan Direction for 

MA 11 winter range. To meet MA 11 requirements, these roads could be restricted for the 

winter season only. However, these roads are short spurs of low recreational access value 

and the costs for installation, maintenance and administration of the gates is not warranted. 

It is more cost effective to install earthen barriers to restrict the roads yearlong. The open 

road density for MA 11 during the winter season would be reduced from 2.7 ORD to 1.5 

ORD, greatly reducing the disturbance to big game animals in the winter range. Roads 

851A, 851B, and 15824 are currently open. Road 3771A has an earthen barrier that has 

been effectively restricting vehicle use. 

-Restrict Roads 3770, 3770A, 3771 and 3783, totaling 7.50 miles, seasonally to all 

motorized vehicles, including snow vehicles, from December 1st to April 30th to reduce 

wildlife disturbance in the winter season. Road 3783 is currently open and Roads 3770 
Purpose and Need

Trego EA 

Purpose and Need 1-7 

and 3771 are currently restricted October 15th to November 30th. Road 3770A is 

currently restricted July 1st to November 30th. 

-Decommission Roads 871C, 871D, 3780A, 3780B, 3781A, 3781D, 3781H, 3784, 

3784A and 3787B, totaling 3.37 miles. This would benefit MA 11 winter range. 

• Trego Subherd Area: Roads 14247, 15173 and the last portion of 3606, totaling 1.98 

miles, would be restricted yearlong to reduce ORDs in the Trego Subherd Area. This would 

be in addition to the proposed yearlong restriction of Roads 851A, 851B, 15824 and 3771A 

that are in both MA 11 and the subherd. To meet winter range requirements, these roads 

could be restricted for the winter season only. However, these roads are short spurs of low 

recreational access value and the costs for installation, maintenance and administration of 

the gates is not warranted. It is more cost effective to install earthen barriers to restrict the 

roads yearlong. Roads 14247 and 3606 are currently open. An earthen barrier has been 

effectively restricting vehicle use on Road 15173. 

-Restrict Roads 3770, 3770A, 3771 and 3783, totaling 7.50 miles. (This action is also 

listed for MA 11 winter range as it accomplishes multiple objectives). 

-Decommission Roads 14252, 14257, 14263, 14265, 14273, 865G, and 3727A, totaling 

1.83 miles. This would benefit the Trego Subherd Area. 

• Old Growth Habitat (MA 13): Restrict Roads 865D, 3731, and a portion of 3772, totaling

3.59 miles, yearlong to motorized vehicles but open to snow vehicles December 1st to April 

30th to meet Forest Plan standards for MA 13 and help prevent cutting of snags. Road 865D 

is currently restricted seasonally July 1st to November 30th. Roads 3731 and 3772 are 

currently restricted October 15th to November 30th. 

-Decommission Roads 14250, 14252, 14253, 3770B, 3770C, 3770G, 3772A, and 

3780A, totaling 3.65 miles. This would benefit designated old growth habitat. 

A total of 7.16 miles of road are proposed to be restricted yearlong and added to the District 

Road Closure Order under 36 CFR 261.51. 

Total proposed seasonal road restrictions are 7.5 miles. 

A total of 7.67 miles (sum of above totals minus duplicates) of road decommissioning would 

benefit the habitat needs for these resources. 

These actions would reduce the disturbance of motorized vehicles in MA 11 and the white-tailed 

deer Trego Subherd Area, and reduce the risk of detrimental effects to Old Growth habitats. 

5) Sediment, water quality, and water quantity effects from roads to streams, riparian areas, 

and wetlands have been reduced. 

A. Purpose and Need Statement:

There are approximately 163 miles of road in the Trego Analysis Area. Of these, approximately 100 

miles are under Forest Service jurisdiction. Classified system roads total 85 miles and unclassified 

roads total 15.3 miles. There are approximately 21 miles of road in riparian areas. All roads are 

affecting the watershed by intercepting flow, altering channels, and/or increasing sedimentation. 

Riparian roads, in particular, are of concern due to their proximity to streams and wetlands. 

Management actions can minimize these effects (see following paragraph). There is a need to 

identify a minimum road system for the Trego Analysis Area and decommission, or convert to other 

uses, roads that are no longer needed. 
Chapter 1

Trego EA 

1-8 Purpose and Need 

BMPs are designed with an emphasis on restoring the natural drainage patterns that were altered 

during the construction of the roads. They help reduce the concentration of sub-surface and surface 

water runoff, minimize road surface erosion, filter ditch water before entering streams, and decrease 

the risk of culvert failures during peak runoff events. BMP work includes culvert installation, 

replacement of existing culverts with larger culverts, installation of drainage dips and surface water 

deflectors, placement of rip-rap to armor drainage structures, aggregate surface replacement, 

aggregate placement to reinforce wet surface areas, ditch construction and cleaning where needed, 

and surface grading to restore the drainage efficiency of the road surface. Continuing efforts by 

Forest Service road maintenance crews and timber sale contracts have implemented many BMPs on 

the Trego roads over the last 15 years. However, as BMP requirements and road conditions change, 

work is still needed on many of the roads to meet current BMP standards. 

Proposed Action Statements: (See Map2-5) 

• Decommissioning unneeded classified National Forest System Roads 14250, 871C and 

3605B totaling 1.94 miles and unclassified Roads 14246, 14252, 14253, 14255, 14257, 

14259, 871D, 3722B, 3727A, 3770G, 3780A, 3780B, 3780C, 3780D, 3781D and 3781F, 

totaling 5.62 miles would directly benefit the water resources. These roads are located near 

riparian areas, with road portions that are directly in Riparian Habitat Conservation Areas 

(RHCAs) totaling 2.20 miles. This action would help to reduce road-related effects to the 

watershed and reduce road maintenance costs. 

• Implement the BMPs needed for 45.68 miles of road as required under the Timber Sale 

contract specifications. This consists of BMPs on roads or portions of Roads 15173, 

15804D, 15812D, 15815, 3605, 3606, 3718, 3718A, 3727, 3730, 3731, 3731A, 3732, 3732D, 

3732F, 3762, 3762A, 3762B, 3762D, 3770, 3770A, 3770E, 3770F, 3771, 3771A, 3780, 

3782, 3782A, 3783, 3787, 865, 865E, 871, 871A and 871B. This action would reduce the 

road-related risks and effects to the water quality of the watersheds. The total miles of road 

that needs work to meet BMP standards for Timber Sales is 45.68 miles. Portions of these 

roads that are directly within the RHCA total 9.36 miles. 

• Place the end portion of Road 3722 into intermittent stored service totaling .44 miles. (This 

action is also listed on page 1-4 as it accomplishes multiple objectives). 

6) There are old growth stands and other unique or special habitats. 

A. Purpose and Need Statement: 

The current seasonal restrictions on local roads that are located in or adjacent to MA 13 old growth 

contribute to the loss of old growth snags. Fuel wood gatherers are able to access and remove the 

snags from along the road where the road is adjacent to or crosses through old growth stands. 

Restricting the roads yearlong would reduce the risk to old growth. 

Proposed Action Statements: (See Map 2-5) 

• Restrict Roads 865D, 3731, and a portion of 3772, totaling 3.59 miles to help prevent 

cutting of old growth snags. (This action is also listed on page 1-7 as it accomplishes 

multiple objectives).

• Decommission Roads 14250, 14252, 14253, 3770B, 3770C, 3770G, 3772A, and 3780A, 

totaling 3.65 miles. This would benefit the designated old growth habitat. (This action is also 

listed on page 1-7 as it accomplishes multiple objectives). 
Purpose and Need

Trego EA 

Purpose and Need 1-9 

7) Road maintenance costs have been reduced. 

A. Purpose and Need Statement: 

General and regular road maintenance is needed on approximately 100.3 miles of road under Forest 

Service jurisdiction in the Trego Area. This includes brushing, grading, removing slumps, cleaning 

ditches, and general road drainage repairs. The declining trend of annual Forest Service road 

maintenance funds is projected to continue. There is a need to identify opportunities such as road 

decommissioning and road storage that would reduce road maintenance costs. 

Proposed Action Statements: (See Map 2-5) 

• Decommission unneeded classified National Forest System Roads totaling 12.47 miles. 

(This action is also listed on page 1-4 as it accomplishes multiple objectives).

• Place the end portion of Road 3722 into intermittent stored service totaling .44 miles. (This 

action is also listed on page 1-4 as it accomplishes multiple objectives). 

• Sunday Mountain Trail: Convert unclassified portion of Road 3730C, a length of 2.5 miles, 

to a system trail. Utilize Roads 3732 and 3702 as a trail loop, and build approximately 0.5 

miles of new trail to complete the loop. The trail loop would total approximately 7.3 miles. 

(This action is also listed on page 1-5 as it accomplishes multiple objectives). 

• Bear Paw Lake Trail: Build a trail (0.16 miles) to connect the end of Roads 3781 and 

3781B. Utilize these two roads to complete a loop trail from Bear Paw Lake. The trail loop 

would total approximately 2 miles. (This action is also listed on page 1-5 as it accomplishes 

multiple objectives).

These actions will provide for access that is more efficient and reduce road maintenance costs 

by reducing the amount of road maintenance needed in the Trego Area. 

8) The Travel Plan within the Trego Analysis Area is easily understood and enforceable. 

Purpose and Need Statement:

The Trego Analysis Area has a number of system roads that are open and restricted to motorized 

vehicle use. These roads and restriction periods are identified in the Rexford/Fortine District Travel 

Access Map (located in the Transportation Project File), on signs located on or near the road 

restriction device, and in the District CFR Road Restriction Notebook. The analysis area also has a 

number of non-system roads and skid trails that may or may not be drivable by motorized vehicles. 

These non-system roads and trails have been either closed with physical barriers by past decisions 

or have naturally grown in with vegetation. Increased motorized vehicle use in the analysis area has 

lead to an increase in road violations which include gate vandalism, driving around closure devices, 

cutting out grown-over roads and creating new two track roads in pursuit of firewood, other forest 

products, game, and Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) activities. These violations create both resource 

and social conflicts. 

The Region One Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) EIS and Plan Amendment Decision of 2001 (located in 

Transportation Project File) made motorized cross-country travel illegal on all Federally managed 

lands in Montana, North Dakota, and portions of South Dakota with exceptions made for permit and 

contract activities and for going off-road up to 300 feet for camping. The OHV Plan Amendment 

Decision also required that motorized vehicles remain on routes that existed before the 2001 

Decision and that fit the vehicle (for example four-wheel vehicles cannot travel on a single-track 

route). This OHV Plan Amendment Decision will remain in effect until a site-specific Travel Analysis 

can be completed for each land base. 
Chapter 1

Trego EA 

1-10 Purpose and Need 

On December 9, 2005, a new final rule for 36 CFR Parts 212, 251, 261 and 295 went into effect and 

addresses travel management and designation of routes for motor vehicle use. This rule directs the 

development of a Motor Vehicle Use Map for each Administrative Unit. Unfortunately, the Trego 

Roads Analysis was completed just before this new final rule went into effect. The Trego ID Team 

modified the Roads Analysis to include a Travel Analysis to meet the requirements of the new final 

rule. 

The Travel Analysis identified routes for designation as open for travel, including the times they are 

open and the type of vehicle use that would be allowed within the Trego Analysis Area. This will 

become a starting point for the District’s and Forest’s Travel Access Analysis ID Team that will be 

developing the Motor Vehicle Use Map. The Forest has four years from the 2005 date to produce 

this map. Once that analysis is completed and a decision is signed, that site-specific decision and 

the corresponding Motor Vehicle Use Map will then govern the motorized use in the area. 

Proposed Action Statement: 

• Designate the entire Trego Analysis Area as an area closed to public motorized use, except 

on the designated roads, as listed below (Table 1-2). In addition, vehicles may travel up to 

300 feet off road for camping. All unauthorized trails within the Trego Analysis Area would be 

closed to motorized use. All areas within the Trego Analysis Area boundary would be closed 

to cross-country/off-road motorized use. Enforcement of this area closure would help to 

eliminate cross-county use and the development of unauthorized roads. 

There would be 59.50 miles of Forest Service roads designated for open travel in the Trego Analysis 

Area at some time during the calendar year. 

The open vehicle use periods would be as follows: 

 Open all year long 19.95 miles 

 Open from December 1st to October 14th 20.60 miles 

 Open from December 1st to June 30th 3.06 miles 

 Open from May 1st to November 30th 0.86 miles 

 Open from May 1st to October 14th 6.22 miles 

 Open from May 1st to June 30th 0.39 miles 

 Open from July 1st to October 14th 8.42 miles 

TOTAL Open Miles 59.50 miles 

Table 1-2. Roads Proposed for Open Travel within the Trego Analysis Area 

Road Number Period Road is Open Period Open for Snow Vehicles 

14264 All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

15049 All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

15804 All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

15812D All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

15815 July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

36 All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

36C All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3606 (to last Private Driveway) All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3718 July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3718A July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3722 (to jct. of 3722A) December 1st to October 14th December 1st to April 30th

3722A December 1st to October 14th December 1st to April 30th

3723 December 1st to June 30th December 1st to April 30th

3729 December 1st to October 14th December 1st to April 30th

3730 All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3730C All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 
Purpose and Need

Trego EA 

Purpose and Need 1-11 

Road Number Period Road is Open Period Open for Snow Vehicles 

3730D December 1st to June 30th December 1st to April 30th

3732 (1st 1.9 miles) All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3732 (to jct. of 3729) December 1st to October 14th December 1st to April 30th

3732 (from jct. 3729 to Sunday Mtn.) December 1st to June 30th December 1st to April 30th

3732B December 1st to June 30th December 1st to April 30th

3732C December 1st to June 30th December 1st to April 30th

3732D December 1st to October 14th December 1st to April 30th

3733 All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3762 All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3762A (to jct. 15812) All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3762B & 3762BZ All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3762C All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3770 May 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3770A May 1st to June 30th (Closed Yearlong) 

3771 May 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3772 (to jct. 3772A) December 1st to October 14th December 1st to April 30th

3780 (1st 1.5 miles to jct. 3782) All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3780 (jct. 3782 to jct. 865 & 3733) December 1st to October 14th December 1st to April 30th

3781 (to Bear Paw Lake) December 1st to October 14th December 1st to April 30th

3782 July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3782A July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3782B July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3783 May 1st to November 30th (Closed Yearlong) 

3787 & 3787Z All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3787A All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3787C All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

4437 December 1st to October 14th December 1st to April 30th

4437A December 1st to October 14th December 1st to April 30th

851 All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

865 (to jct. 871) All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

865 (jct. 871 to jct. 3733 & 3780) December 1st to October 14th December 1st to April 30th

871 (to jct. 871B) All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

871 (from jct. 871B) July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

871A July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

871B All Year Long *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

* The Montana Code, Title 23-2-631 states that snowmobile travel on public roads is legal only when 

travel by other vehicles is impractical or impossible. 

Desired Future Conditions for VEGETATION: THERE IS A DIVERSE AND HEALTHY 

ECOSYSTEM THAT HAS BEEN MANAGED SO: 

1) Forests are in a condition that they have the capacity for renewal and recovery from 

disturbances (e.g. healthy stand conditions, adequate seed sources, and productive soils). 

Purpose and Need Statement:

The lack of disturbances, due in a large part to desired and effective fire suppression has resulted in 

increased densities of forests in the Trego Area. In the absence of fire, insects and pathogens have 

become the primary disturbance agents in most natural forests. Some of the actions of insects and 

pathogens can produce dramatic effects, such as large bark beetle or defoliator outbreaks. An 

estimated 2800 acres are considered to be in the moderate to high hazard category for infestation by 

Douglas-fir beetle in the analysis area. Stand conditions that have been identified as most conducive 

to Douglas-fir beetle outbreaks are: 

• Stands in which Douglas-fir is the predominant species - the higher the percentage of Douglas-fir 

in the stand, particularly in excess of 50 to 60 percent, the greater the susceptibility. 
Chapter 1

Trego EA 

1-12 Purpose and Need 

• Age of Douglas-fir in the stand – As Douglas-fir reaches maturity, it slows in growth and is more 

susceptible to the beetle. Tree ages greater than 80 years are considered to be highly 

susceptible; beyond 120 years they becomes extremely susceptible. 

• Size of Douglas-fir in the stand – Stand susceptibility is also reflected in the size of the host 

trees. Generally, the larger trees in the stand are more susceptible. Trees less than 14 inches 

diameter breast height (dbh) are not as likely to be attacked successfully. 

• Overall stand density – When stocking exceeds 80 percent of “normal” stocking for the site, 

susceptibility to attack increases significantly. The denser the stocking, which increases intertree competition and also provides cooler, more shaded environments, preferred by the beetle, 

the greater the probability of infestation. 

There is a need to use management activities to alter one or more of those stand conditions – 

species or size composition, age, or stocking to reduce future susceptibility to Douglas-fir beetle. 

Proposed Action Statement: (See Map 2-2) 

• Alter the species or size composition, age or densities of stands through intermediate 

harvest on approximately 403 acres (Units 1, 8, 9, 14, 35, 36, 37, 38, and 50) to reduce 

susceptibility to Douglas-fir beetle. 

• Alter the species or size composition, age, or densities of stands through regeneration 

harvest on 195 acres (Units 12, 13, 15, 20, 25, 31) to reduce the susceptibility to Douglas-fir 

beetle. These six units have been identified as having a moderate or high risk hazard for 

Douglas-fir beetle. 

Purpose and Need Statement:

High tree stocking densities occur in many stands in the analysis area. These cause excessive intertree competition that result in stress-related mortality, which in turn increases fuel loads and the risk 

for stand-replacing fire. Wildfire suppression efforts subdued most fire starts occurring for the past 80 

years. If allowed to burn, these would have reduced densities in some stands; in others, fire may 

have missed the stands, allowing densities to increase. Fire suppression efforts have interrupted the 

historical fire cycle, resulting in high tree density in many stands. The implications for the vegetation 

resource include: increased competition between trees, reduction in overall stand vigor, and 

increased susceptibility to stress-induced mortality from insect and disease infestation, and an 

increased risk for catastrophic crown fire. 

In the analysis area stand densities currently range from 120 to 200+ square feet of basal area per 

acre in the Trego Area. Research has shown that stands with lower basal areas are more 

sustainable over time (Arno, et al. 1997; Steele, 1994). A need exists to reduce tree densities down 

to 50 to 140 square feet of basal area, which will improve stand vigor making them more able to 

ward off insect and diseases, less susceptible to fire and improve the potential to be sustainable over 

time. 

In some areas, the existing density of healthy fire-resistant trees may be as low as 10 to 60 square 

feet of basal area per acre. To meet desired conditions, only the healthy, fire resistant trees would be 

retained and these areas would be regenerated to 200 to 350 seedlings per acre of native, fireresistant species. 

Proposed Action Statement: (See Map 2-2) 

• Reduce tree densities through intermediate harvest on approximately 279 acres (Units 8, 9, 

10, 11, 28, 34, 36, and 50). Improve stand composition and structure through regeneration 

harvest on 245 acres (Units 13, 30, 31, 32, 42, 47, and 53). 
Purpose and Need

Trego EA 

Purpose and Need 1-13 

Purpose and Need Statement:

The Northern Region Overview identified western larch forest type as “at risk” due to the lack of lowintensity, periodic disturbance and a shift toward stand-replacing fire. Currently, a majority of the 

stands in the warm/dry and cool/moist forest types that are dominated by an overstory of western 

larch and Douglas-fir contain an encroaching understory of subalpine fir, Engelmann spruce, and 

other shade-loving species. As discussed above, densities in these stands currently range from 120 

to 200+ square feet of basal area per acre in the Trego Area. Research has shown (Arno, 1997) that 

typical old growth western larch stands in Montana had basal areas ranging from 60 to 160 square 

feet per acre, with most stands averaging 70 to 90 square feet per acre. These conditions are 

considered to be moderate-to-high risk for stand-replacing crown fire. There is a need to restore 

wildlife habitat provided by the western larch cover type and also ensure a good representation of 

high quality western larch stock. 

In some areas, the existing density of healthy fire-resistant western larch may be between 10 to 60 

square feet of basal area per acre. To meet desired conditions, only the healthy, fire resistant 

western larch would be retained and these areas would be regenerated to 200 to 350 western larch 

seedlings per acre. 

Proposed Action Statement: (See Map 2-2) 

• Create two-storied western larch stands through regeneration harvest on 112 acres (Units 

13, 25, 31, and 32). Ensure the larch cover type is perpetuated through reforestation with 

larch and by leaving high quality western larch reserve trees. 

• Reduce high densities of trees and reduce ladder fuels through intermediate harvest on 528 

acres (Units 1, 2, 6, 9, 14, 18, 22, 35, and 36). 

• Create two-storied western larch stands and reduce stocking densities through uneven aged 

management on 48 acres (Unit 54). 

Purpose and Need Statement: 

Some stands in the Trego Area have significant amounts of mortality. Examples of this are Douglasfir trees killed by the Douglas-fir beetle, dead subalpine fir killed by the western balsam bark beetle, 

and lodgepole pine killed by the mountain pine beetle. Other insects and diseases such as root 

disease add to these mortality levels. In some stands these dead trees retain good economic value. 

In other stands, decay of the dead trees has progressed to the point where economic value is low. 

These dead trees are increasing surface fuel concentrations as they fall to the ground. Increased 

surface fuel loadings increase fire intensities and fire spread rates. There is a need to improve forest 

health by reducing the level of mortality in these stands thereby reducing fuel loadings and the 

potential of increased fire intensities. 

Proposed Action Statement: (See Map 2-2) 

• Reduce mortality levels through intermediate harvest on 173 acres (Units 14, 23, 34, 36, 

and 37) and regeneration harvest on 120 acres (Units 12, 20, and 25) coupled with fuel 

treatments to reduce mortality levels in stands where existing average mortality levels are 

equal to or greater than 20 square feet of basal area. 

2) Fuel loads have been managed to reduce the risks of stand-replacement fires in stands 

adjacent to private property. 

Purpose and Need Statement:

Most of the Trego Analysis Area lies within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI). Effective and desired 

fire suppression has led to an increase in aerial and surface fuel loadings in the stands surrounding 
Chapter 1

Trego EA 

1-14 Purpose and Need 

homes and communities, the WUI. These fuels create an increased risk of stand-replacing fires. 

Therefore, fuels within the WUI need to be managed to reduce the risk of stand-replacement fires 

and the associated risk to private property values. 

Proposed Action Statements:

• Treat fuels on 562 acres through manipulation such as harvesting, slashing, excavator 

piling, pile burning, and underburning (Units 3, 4, 17, 24, 29, 48, 49, 51, and 52) within the 

WUI . 

• Activity fuels resulting from intermediate and regeneration harvest would also be treated 

through slashing, excavator piling, pile burning, and underburning on 1412 acres (Units 1, 

2, 6, 8-15, 18, 20, 22, 25, 26, 28, 30-32, 34-38, 42, 47, and 50 ) within the WUI. 

3) Fire is being used to emulate its natural ecological role. 

Purpose and Need Statement:

The role of fire within forest ecosystems needs to be re-established, especially on south and west 

aspects. The re-introduction of fire will reduce excess fuel buildup, stimulate the growth of browse 

and other native fire-dependant plant species, and help restore the overall health of the forest. 

Proposed Action Statements:

• Re-introduce fire on 719 acres through underburning or jackpot burning on south and west 

aspects (Units 16, 19, 21, 39, 40, 41, 43, 44, and 45). Some light slashing may be needed 

prior to underburning to achieve desired results. 

Desired Future Conditions for SOCIAL and ECONOMICAL Resources: THERE IS A FOREST 

THAT HAS BEEN MANAGED SO:

1) A variety of quality recreation experiences are provided. 

Purpose and Need Statement:

Currently no improved recreation areas exist within the Trego Analysis Area. The area adjacent to 

Bear Paw Lake is used to picnic and fish. There are a couple of rock fire rings and a well-worn area 

that extends into adjacent vegetation surrounds the fire rings. There are also two user-constructed 

platforms leading out into the lake that people fish from. The platforms are in various states of 

disrepair. 

Proposed Action Statement: (See Map 2-2)

• Install a table, fire ring, and hitching post at Bear Paw Lake. Define the picnic space by 

leveling, adding some gravel, and seeding the well-worn area to help contain use and limit 

uncontrolled spread. Assess the existing platforms and either repair or replace them. 

2) Forest products and other economic opportunities related to the forest are made available 

to provide desired goods for the nation and to contribute to the local timber related economy. 

Purpose and Need Statement:

The production of wood products from National Forest lands has contributed to the sustainability of 

economic and social systems of the local economy over the past several decades. This supply has 

been a significant component of the support of local and regional communities, as well as 

contributing to the areas supply of goods and services. Competition for timber sales includes 

representative bidders from large mills as well as several small family-run operations. The level of 

timber harvest on the Kootenai National Forest could continue to affect the economic stability of the 
Purpose and Need

Trego EA 

Purpose and Need 1-15 

Tobacco Valley and surrounding communities. The production of wood products also provides 

desired goods for the nation. 

Proposed Action Statement:

• Provide an estimated 5 million board feet of timber to provide wood products for the nation 

and to contribute to the local timber related economy. 

SCOPE OF THE PROPOSED ACTION 

When: The proposed action would result in timber sales that would be sold between 2006 and 

2014. Timber harvest would be completed by 2016 with slash disposal and prescribed burning 

completed within one to two years following the end of harvest activities. Reforestation activities 

would be completed no more than five years after logging is completed. 

Management activities not involving timber harvest (prescribed burning with no associated timber 

harvest) would begin in 2006 and be completed by 2016. These dates are tentative, based upon 

anticipated budgets, work force, weather, and other considerations. Implementation of roadwork 

associated with timber sales would be estimated to begin once the timber sale is sold and the 

purchaser has agreed to the work required in the contract. Other road maintenance projects would 

be completed depending on funding made available and could be implemented over a long time. 

Refer to the Transportation Section of the EA for a discussion of road maintenance and funding. 

SCOPE OF THE ANALSYIS 

The Council on Environmental Quality regulations implementing the National Environmental Policy 

Act (NEPA) require all federal agencies to consider the following three types of actions in 

determining the scope of an environmental assessment (EA) (40 CFR 1508.25): 

Connected Actions are closely related and will be discussed in this EA along with the Proposed 

Action. Actions are considered connected if they automatically trigger other actions, which may 

require NEPA analyses, if they cannot or will not proceed unless other actions are taken previously 

or simultaneously, or if they are an interdependent part of larger action and depend on the larger 

action for their justification. 

Connected Actions are part of the Proposed Action. The Proposed Action includes all activities 

needed to complete the timber sales and prescribed burning, resource enhancement projects, and 

provide for resource protection during and following project completion. Connected Actions 

contained in the Proposed Action include but are not limited to: 

• Road maintenance 

• Road access management associated with harvest scheduling and open road density 

objectives. 

• Monitoring associated with contract administration. 

• Tree planting and monitoring of reforestation success. 

• Design Criteria described in Table 2-10 and BMPs described in Appendix B. 

Similar Actions, which when viewed with other Reasonably Foreseeable Actions or Proposed 

Actions, have similarities that provide a basis for evaluating their environmental consequences 

together, such as similar timing or geography. 

A number of similar actions have been identified and evaluated in the analysis of environmental 

consequences. These are current and reasonably foreseeable actions that are described in the 

following section on cumulative actions. 

Cumulative Actions include past, current, proposed, and reasonably foreseeable actions that may 

have cumulatively significant impacts when considered along with the Proposed Action. 
Chapter 1

Trego EA 

1-16 Purpose and Need 

The effects of these actions on National Forest System lands have been evaluated in the 

environmental analysis of the proposed action and its alternatives. Actions considered in cumulative 

effects analysis are summarized below and presented in more detail in Chapter 3 of this EA and in 

the Cumulative Effects Worksheets located in the project file. These Cumulative Effects Worksheets 

consider and describe those activities that may have a cumulative effect on that resource and also 

those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on that resource. 

Three types of impacts are considered in the scope of the analysis: direct, indirect, and cumulative 

(40 CFR 1508.7 and 1508.8). They are defined in the introduction to Chapter 3. 

PAST ACTIONS 

Past actions are management activities (timber harvest and prescribed burning) and events (wildfire) 

that occurred in the analysis area. The effects of these activities and events provide baseline 

conditions for the affected environment resources existing in the analysis area, which are described 

in Chapter 3 of this document. Additional information is contained in the project file for each of the 

resources. Records of past activities and events for the analysis area were examined from years 

1900 to 2005. Activities recorded during this time period are listed in Table 1-3. Please see Map 1-2 

for a display of past actions. 

Table 1-3. Past Actions on Federal and Private Lands in the Trego Analysis Area 

Action Group Action Unit of Measure 

Underburn, Broadcast Burn 

with Harvest 

(1986-2005) 

1246 acres 

Ecosystem Burn, Wildlife 

Burn without Harvest 

(1983-2005) 

303 acres 

Mechanical Piling 

(2001-2005) 473 acres 

Dozer Piling 

(1962-2005) 3002 acres 

Wildfire 

(1910-2005) 1120 acres 

Pre-commercial Thinning 

(1966-2005) 5564 acres 

1940-1949 Timber Sales 

Unknown 

Regeneration 

Harvest 

46 acres 

Intermediate 

Harvest 

0 Acres 

1950-1959 Timber Sales 

Unknown 

Regeneration 

Harvest 

117 acres 

Intermediate 

Harvest 

0 Acres 

1960-1969 Timber Sales 

Unknown 

Regeneration 

Harvest 

1214 acres 

Intermediate 

Harvest 

72 acres 

Fuels Management, Wildfire 

Suppression, and Vegetation 

Management Activities 

1970-1979 Timber Sales 

Magnesia Paul OSR, 

Sunday Slope, Lime Creek, 

Jim Sunday, Brimstone, 

Lower Lime Creek, Unknown 

Regeneration 

Harvest 

2380 acres 

Intermediate 

Harvest 

1216 acres 
Purpose and Need

Trego EA 

Purpose and Need 1-17 

Action Group Action Unit of Measure 

1980-1989 Timber Sales 

Brimstone, Elk, High Stewart 

OSR, Jim Sunday, Bruce 

Beetles, Milk of Magnesia, 

Corral Bugs, Strawberry 

Sunday, White Butcher, Lime 

Sota Bugs, One Lime Bait, 

Lowlime Bait, Homestead, 

Three Lime Bait, Cobblers 

Delight, Butcher Bait, Jumbo, 

Lime Goose, Jimmy Stewart, 

Lookout Bait, Killer Bug, 

Magnesia, Sunday Best, 

Brimstone Sunday, 

Limestone Bugs, Stewart 

Junior, Stewart Bugs, 

Unknown 

Regeneration 

Harvest 

2202 acres 

Intermediate 

Harvest 

528 acres 

1990-1999 Timber Sales 

Jumbo Bugs, Louis Creek 

OSR, Milking Magnesia, Stu 

Switch OSR, Jiminy OSR, 

Magnesia, Limbrim OSR, 

Sunday Stew OSR, White 

Creek, Jim Parcel OSR, 

Snowblower Down, Trebro 

South, Corral OSR, TreeGrow, Brown Bugs, Stewart 

Switch SSTS, Brimtop, Jim 

Cricket, Lime Pulp, 

Magnesia Salvage, Trego 

Salvage, Brim Full, Fill To 

The Brim, Maglite 

Regeneration 

Harvest 

878 acres 

Intermediate 

Harvest 

1403 acres 

2000-Present Timber Sales 

Tree-Grow, Stone Cutter, 

Twist of Lime 

Regeneration 

Harvest 

47 acres 

Intermediate 

Harvest 

799 acres 

Road Management 

Road Construction has 

occurred in the Trego Area 

Since the Late 1890’s. Road 

construction, reconstruction 

and maintenance have been 

funded primarily with timber 

sales. This work was 

performed to meet the 

specifications and BMPs 

required at the time of 

implementation. In addition 

to BMPs performed for roads 

used in the timber sales 

listed in the columns above, 

the Trego Roads BMP 

Improvement Project in 2001 

performed BMPs on Roads 

865, 865D, 3722, 3722A, 

3730, 3732, 3732D, 3770, 

3780 and 3781. 

163.1 Miles Now Exist In the 

Analysis Area 

Range Management 

Trego Allotment 

220 AUMs 

Swamp/Fortine Allotment 195 

AUMs 

Other Administrative Actions 

Noxious Weed Control Started in the early 90s 
Chapter 1

Trego EA 

1-18 Purpose and Need 

Action Group Action Unit of Measure 

Planting 

(1953-2005) 1019 acres 

Gravel Pits/Quarries 5 (D3-6,7,8,27,32) 

Firewood Cutting Average 26 permits/year and 35 

MBF/year 

Christmas Tree Cutting Average 14 permits/year and 145 

acres/permit Public Actions on Federal Lands 

Special Uses 3 Easements 

3 Special Use Permits 

Permanent Land Clearing 

(1980-2005) 1038 acres 

Regeneration Harvest 

(1967-2005) 849 acres 

Intermediate Harvest 

(1952-2005) 2498 acres 

Existing Roads 

(1890-2005) 62 miles 

Private Land Actions 

Existing Home Sites 119 

CURRENT AND REASONABLY FORESEEABLE ACTIONS 

Current and Reasonably Foreseeable Actions are management activities or projects planned by the 

Forest Service, other government agencies, or private landowners in or near the analysis area, 

which could occur regardless of which alternative is selected for implementation. Current and 

Reasonably Foreseeable Actions are activities or projects that are ongoing or will be implemented 

within the next 10 years, including those that would recur annually. 

Current and Reasonably Foreseeable Actions are listed in Table 1-4. 

Table 1-4. Current and Reasonably Foreseeable Actions on Federal and Private Lands 

In the Trego Analysis Area (As of 12/2005) 

(C = Current; F = Foreseeable) 

Activity Type Description C F 

Fire suppression activities will occur as needed. Control of wildfires 

will follow Forest Plan standards for the affected Management Areas. X X 

The Tree-Mag Timber Sale includes: 2 units, Intermediate Harvest, 

72 acres. X 

The Magnesia DFB Timber Sale includes: 7 units, Intermediate 

Harvest, 164 acres. X 

The Jim Stew DFB Timber Sale includes: 4 units, Intermediate 

Harvest, 156 acres. X 

The White Creek DFB Salvage Sale includes: 2 units, Intermediate 

Harvest, 8 acres. X 

Salvage of blown down trees may occur within the analysis area 

under the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI. 

Treatments may be applied to an estimated 3-5 acres in any year 

and would not exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years. 

 X 

Fuels Management, 

Wildfire Suppression, 

and Vegetation 

Management Activities 

The Sunday Douglas-fir Beetle Project includes 13 units, 240 acres 

of salvage harvest. X 
Purpose and Need

Trego EA 

Purpose and Need 1-19 

Activity Type Description C F 

The Meadow EIS Timber Sales include 545 acres of intermediate 

acres and 5 acres of regeneration harvest. X 

Swamp EIS Timber Sales include 606 acres of intermediate harvest. X 

The Fortine EIS Timber Sales will be implemented starting 2006 and 

ending 2009 in the Fortine Analysis Area; 2188 acres of harvest and 

1781 acres of fuel reduction and ecosystem burning. 

X X 

Approximately 484 acres of young stands below 4,000 feet 

associated with past harvest are scheduled for pre-commercial 

thinning for 2005-2016. Thinning activity involves the use of 

chainsaws to remove unmerchantable trees in dense, young stands 

to improve the growth and vigor of the remaining trees, and to 

achieve stand prescription objectives. 

 X 

Approximately 300 acres of commercial bough and commercial 

Christmas tree permits are anticipated to be sold during the next 10 

years. Most work is accomplished in the fall. 

 X 

There is an average of 14 permits/year and 145 acres/permit for 

Christmas Tree Cutting and 26 permits/year and 70 cords/year for 

Firewood Cutting. 

 X 

Noxious Weed Control 

Efforts to control infestations of noxious weeds and reduce new 

infestations are ongoing and will continue through the foreseeable 

future. Control actions may include hand spraying herbicides, hand 

pulling, and biological control. All activities comply with the 1997 

Herbicide Weed Control EA and DN. 

X X 

Livestock Grazing and 

Range Improvement 

The Trego Analysis Area provides range for two grazing Allotments: 

Trego and Swamp/Fortine. The analysis area encompasses the 

entire Trego Allotment and only about 13% or the Swamp/Fortine 

Allotment. Cattle grazing will continue to occur within the analysis 

area. The maximum permitted number of cow/calf pairs within the 

analysis area is 76. Cattle graze throughout the analysis area under 

a continuous grazing system. Currently there are three permittees 

that graze cattle within the analysis area. Two of these permittees 

have fenced allotments located adjacent to their ranch. The third 

permittee runs his cattle throughout the rest of the analysis area. 

Herding is accomplished through both the use of horses and 

motorized vehicles. Management activities include the movement of 

cattle to insure proper forage utilization and resource protection and 

the maintenance and repair of range improvement structures. 

Information on this allotment is documented in the South End 

Allotments EA on file at the Fortine Ranger District office. 

X X 

Watershed Restoration 

A Water Quality Restoration Plan will be developed for Fortine Creek 

in 2006 by the Montana State Department of Environmental Quality 

(DEQ) as part of TMDL development (see the Aquatic Resources 

section in Chapter 3 for more information). Some of the 

recommended restoration measures may affect this analysis area. 

 X 

Road Activity 

Routine road maintenance will occur as needed on roads in the 

analysis area, separate from any road maintenance identified in this 

EA. Maintenance includes road grading, gate repair/replacement, 

cleaning ditches and culverts, brushing, and debris removal. 

Approximately 20 miles of road could be bladed per year over the 

next 10 years. Additional culverts are likely to be installed as 

needed. 

X X 
Chapter 1

Trego EA 

1-20 Purpose and Need 

Activity Type Description C F 

The Rock Quarries will continue to be used. Rocks are quarried to 

provide material for road surfacing and maintenance and riprap for 

soil armoring along slopes. 

X X 

Recreational use associated with roads in the analysis area includes 

driving for pleasure, camping, hunting, trapping, fishing, firewood 

gathering, huckleberry picking, Christmas Tree gathering, wildlife 

viewing, all terrain vehicle riding, and hiking. 

 

Administrative use of roads in the analysis area is ongoing. Use is 

associated with road maintenance, permit administration, noxious 

weed control, data collection, monitoring, and general administration 

of public lands. Road use will follow Forest or District use policies. 

X X 

All Roads In The Subunit Total 163.1 miles. 

County Roads (8.5 miles), State Lands Roads (11.7 miles) 

Private Roads (42.4 miles), National Forest System Roads 

(Classified 85.3 miles), Unclassified Forest Service Roads (15.2 

miles), Decommissioned Roads (0 miles). 

X 

All Open/Seasonal Roads Within The Subunit (Incl. County, 

State, & Private) Total 122.3 miles. 

Open Roads On Private and State Lands (57.6 miles), 

Open/Seasonal Roads On FS Land Only (64.7 miles) 

X 

Management Of National Forest System (NFS) Classified Roads, 

Which Total 85.3 miles. 

Open Yearlong (22.1 miles), Code “01” Restricted 10/15-11/30 (29.7 

miles), Code “04” Restricted 10/15-6/30 (8.8 miles), Code “09” 

Restricted Yearlong (20.2 miles), Code “17” Restricted 7/1-11/30 

(4.5 miles). 

X 

Management Of Unclassified Roads, Which Total 15.2 miles. 

Open Unclassified Roads (0.7 miles), Code “01” Restricted 10/15-

11/30 (2.7 miles), Code “04” Restricted 10/15-6/30, (0.2 miles), Code 

“09” Restricted Yearlong (11.6 miles). 

X 

Road Management 

The Road Management Listed Above Will Change With This 

Analysis. Unclassified roads will be converted to trails, added to the 

NFS or decommissioned. Some Classified roads will be 

decommissioned or have changes in management. 

 X 

At this time, the predominant recreational use is by hunters, both 

spring and fall. Elk, white-tailed and mule deer, bear, and cougars 

are hunted throughout the analysis area. An area of special 

designation managed by a gate system is located in the east half of 

the drainage that allows for no vehicles, including over the snow, to 

use the area from October 15 through December 1. We refer to it as 

the Walk-In Hunting Area and it is allowed by Order #321. 

X X 

Day use and some camping occur at Bear Paw Lake located off of 

NFS Road 3581. X X 

Three Outfitter and Guide permits have operated in the analysis area 

in the recent past. Two for hunting and the other for trail rides. X X 

Recreation 

Firewood gathering occurs along all roads that are open or 

seasonally open. Firewood gathering is prohibited within active 

timber sale units or other areas signed or shown on the firewood 

gathering area map as being closed to firewood gathering (ex. 

stands designated as old growth). 

X X 
Purpose and Need

Trego EA 

Purpose and Need 1-21 

Activity Type Description C F 

In addition to the activities listed above, the analysis area provides 

for mountain biking, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and 

horseback riding. 

X X 

There are three permits for Right-of-Ways, including Burlington 

Northern Santa Fe Railroad, Lincoln Electric Cooperative, Inc., and 

InterBel Telephone Cooperative, Inc. These companies do annual 

inspections and periodic maintenance and repair including pole, 

cable, or track replacement or repair along with vegetation 

management, including noxious weed control. The Lincoln Electric 

and InterBel permits are comprised of more than one location. 

X X 

One Forest Road Special Use Permit and three easements currently 

exist. Two of the road easements are issued to Road User 

Associations. The property served by one of the easements off of 

Road 3762B has not been subdivided yet. The other RUA serves 

four properties off of Road 3762C and all are absentee landowners 

at this time. The third easement leads to a single parcel off of Road 

3726A. This area will likely see development of more parcels as well 

as some subdivision of the larger parcels in the next 10 years. 

X X 

Lands 

Temporary Road Use Permits are issued to the State and to 

landowners for uses of National Forest System Roads such as log 

hauling and snowplowing. These permits include specifications of 

use, determined by a Forest Service engineer, such as dust 

abatement, grading, graveling, and vehicle washing to control the 

spread of noxious weeds. 

X X 

According to information obtained from Lincoln Electric Cooperative 

the following activities are expected to occur: Permanent Land 

Clearing from 24 home sites is 12 acres, Road Construction – 6 

miles, Home Construction – 24. 

X X 

According to Stillwater State Forest Managers, small timber sale 

permits will be implemented as the need arises (less than 20 acres). 

There is a potential for the Jim III Salvage Sale to be implemented in 

2008 on 500 acres and the Beaver Creek Salvage Sale to be 

implemented in 2009 on 333 acres of State land. 

X X 

Vegetation Management 

on Private Lands 

In review of aerial photos and the average rate of past timber 

harvest, it is expected that 279 acres of regeneration harvest would 

occur on private land over the next 10 years. 

X X 

DECISIONS TO BE MADE 

The Responsible Official (Decision Maker) is the District Ranger of the Kootenai National Forest, 

who will decide the following: 

1. Whether to implement vegetation management activities (silvicultural prescriptions, logging 

within mature timber stands, slash treatment, reforestation within the wildland urban interface, 

and regeneration harvest openings greater than 40 acres), including design criteria to protect 

resources, and, if so, the site-specific location of these activities and practices. 

2. Whether to implement fuels management activities (Ecosystem Burning, Fuels Treatment with 

Manipulation) including design criteria to protect resources, and, if so, the selection and sitespecific location of activities and practices. 
Chapter 1

Trego EA 

1-22 Purpose and Need 

3. Whether watershed restoration and road access restrictions or other actions, including road 

decommissioning and storage are necessary to meet resource objectives, and, if so, to what 

extent? 

4. Whether wildlife and old growth habitat needs have been met and if so, to what extent? 

5. Whether there is reasonable and safe access to private land and private utilities, and for 

recreational activities and other public access values? 

6. What, if any, specific project monitoring requirements are needed to assure design criteria are 

implemented and effective, or to evaluate success of project objectives. 

OTHER AGENCIES WITH JURISDICTION/PERMIT REQUIREMENTS 

The Forest Service is seeking to obtain access to two isolated parcels of National Forest System 

Land. Permanent easements across state and private ownership are being pursued to gain the 

access. 

The Forest Service’s Environmental Analysis (EA) pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act 

of 1969 (NEPA) is intended to also satisfy the requirements of the Montana Environmental Policy Act 

of 1971 (MEPA). The Stillwater Unit Manager will be preparing a separate decision document for the 

permanent road easements. The Forest Service’s Decision Notice will also document each agency’s 

requirements that must be met before implementation of this project. 

This EA also includes the analysis for proposed permanent Right-of-Way Easements with several 

private land owners to use existing open roads across private land to access the two isolated parcels 

of National Forest Land listed above. These easements would provide a legal access totaling a 

distance of 0.7 miles across State Land and 1.7 miles across private land. These permanent 

easements would ensure access to parcels of federal land for any future management proposed in 

those areas. The Forest Service would acquire jurisdiction of these roads and be responsible for 

implementing BMPs and routine road maintenance. Involved in the transfer are State Roads 3762 

and 3762D and private roads 15804, 15804D, and 14264. 

EA ORGANIZATION 

 

Chapter 2 - Alternatives: Describes the public involvement process used to identify the Significant 

Issues that were used to develop alternatives to the Proposed Action. Chapter 2 also contains 

descriptions of the Proposed Action and its alternatives, along with alternatives that were considered 

but dropped from detailed study. 

Chapter 3 – Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences: Provides the reader with 

an understanding of the existing condition and trends of the resources in the analysis area. The 

chapter also discloses the environmental consequences that would occur as a result of implementing 

each of the alternatives, including the No Action Alternative. Direct, indirect, and cumulative effects 

are described, along with the irreversible and irretrievable commitment of resources that may occur. 

Appendices: Contains information which supplements the discussions presented in this EA. 

Project File: Contains Resource Specialist Reports, survey data, analyses, and supporting 

documentation used in the preparation of this assessment. It is available for review at the Murphy 

Lake Ranger Station. 
l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

l

"

"

363±

£¤93

"Trego

Rexford Ranger District

Mt

Marston

Grave

Creek

363±

1143±

4333±

3193±

3683± 3153±

483±

7086

3±

4943±

3553

3±

Creek

Meadow

Deep Creek

Tobacco River

Fort ni e Creek

£¤93

Therriault

Lakes

Dickey

Lake

Glen

Lake

Murphy

Lake

Frank

Lake

0

0

Eureka

Fortine

Mt

Lewis

Bald

Mtn

Poorman

Mtn

Stahl

Peak

Skillet

Mtn

Sunday

Mtn

Paul

Mtn

Deep

Mtn

Eureka

Hill

Pinkham

Mtn

Mt

Barnaby

Ksanka

Peak

8653±

3780

3±

3730

3± 3732

3±

3729

3±

T37N

T36N

T36N

T35N

T35N

T34N

T34N

T33N

T33N

T32N

R24WR25W

R25W

R26W

R26W

R27W

R27W

R28W

Montana

Kootenai

National Forest Kootenai

National Forest

Fortine

Ranger

District

0 0.5 1 2 3 4

Miles

"

Trego Analysis Area

Non Forest Service Lands

Fortine Ranger District

T.Garrison 6-2006

United States/Canadian Border

MAP 1-1
Past Actions

3732

3780

3780

865

3732

36

36

36

3780

865

3730

3732

36

36

865

3730

865

36

3732

2

8 9 7

5 6 4

1

3

36

25

13

23

20

24

30

26

17

12

32 31

19

18 16

31

29

14

33

30

22

29

3

35

10

27

36

21

19

1

32

11

15

25 28

20

28

11

21

34

34

15

2

4

15

15

11

25

Trego Analysis Area

LEGEND

Regeneration Harvests

Intermediate Harvests

Precommercial Thinning

Underburn/Broadcast Burn

Streams

Ecosystem Burning

Wildfires

Existing Roads

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Railroad

Lakes/Wetlands

40 ft Contours

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands

Fortine

Creek

Trego "

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

Map 1-2
Chapter 2 Alternatives 
Alternatives

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 2-1 

CHAPTER TWO 

Alternatives 

INTRODUCTION 

This chapter describes the alternative development process, including how public comments helped 

formulate the alternatives, the alternatives considered but eliminated from detailed study, and the 

alternatives considered in detail. In this project, three action alternatives have been carried forward 

and analyzed in detail in Chapter 3, along with the No Action Alternative. Tables 2-8 and 2-9 at the 

end of this chapter display a comparison of the purpose and need and major issues by alternative. 

ALTERNATIVE DEVELOPMENT PROCESS 

A. Proposed Action Development

In February of 2004, the Fortine Ranger District began evaluating the Trego Analysis Area for 

potential management opportunities. This landscape assessment characterized the human, 

terrestrial, and aquatic features as well as the vegetative conditions and ecological processes within 

the watershed. The Interdisciplinary (ID) Team requested input during the assessment phase from 

people interested in the area and those asking to be notified of projects on the Fortine District. A 

display Ad soliciting information was published in the Tobacco Valley News on February 26, 2004 

and March 4, 2004. Nineteen letters were received with individuals providing comments on: 

• Noxious Weed Control 

• Timber Management 

• Fuels Reduction 

• Recreation 

• Road Management 

• Ecosystem Burning 

• Stream Restoration 

• Firewood gathering 

Those opportunities that were feasible to implement within the next 10 years and required a new 

environmental analysis and decision were included in the Proposed Action for the Trego Project. 

B. Proposed Action Scoping 

Site-specific public comments on the Proposed Action were requested in June 2005 through 

publication of Scoping Notices in the Kalispell, Montana, Daily Inter Lake; and the Eureka, Montana, 

Tobacco Valley News. A notice was also mailed to those individuals who previously responded to 

the landscape assessment inquiry and those on the Forest and District mailing lists for planning 

projects (242 recipients); seventeen comment letters were received. 

Concerns of the Kootenai and Salish tribes were solicited through project scoping. In addition, the 

Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribe have provided a Tribal Liaison to work in partnership with 

the Kootenai National Forest to review project proposals and provide tribal input. Tribal governments 

expressed concern with three units regarding this project. 

Ben Conard, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and Tim Thier, Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and 

Parks, were also consulted on this project. 
Chapter 2 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

2-2 Alternatives 

ISSUE IDENTIFICATION 

The scoping comments were reviewed by the ID Team and categorized. Some concerns were 

determined to be outside the scope of this project or will be addressed in the Forest Plan process; 

other issues have been addressed through Design Criteria described in Table 2-10 of this chapter or 

by displaying the effects of the no action versus the action alternatives. 

Issues representing an unresolved conflict with the Proposed Action have been brought forward as 

"Major Issues" and were used to help formulate alternatives to the Proposed Action. Documentation 

of the issue identification process is contained in the project file located at the Fortine Ranger District 

office. 

Major Issues 

Internal and external comments revealed issues representing unresolved conflict with the Proposed 

Action (Alternative B). The following major issues were used to develop alternatives to the Proposed 

Action. 

Issue #1 – Old Growth 

To assist in maintaining habitat to support viable populations of wildlife species associated with 

old growth, the Kootenai National Forest Plan identified that “at any time 10 percent of the 

Kootenai National Forest land base below 5,500 feet in elevation will be in an old-growth timber 

condition, providing habitat for those wildlife species dependent on old growth timber for their 

needs. The old growth will be spread evenly through most major drainages and will represent the 

major forest types in each drainage” (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, p. II-22). This designation 

will also help maintain populations of sensitive plant species associated with old growth forests. 

Within the Trego Analysis Area, Forest Plan designated old growth habitat totals 1939 acres, 

which lie below 5,500 feet in elevation. Of the 1939 acres, 1837 acres are identified as 

designated effective (DEFF) and 102 acres are identified as designated replacement (DREP). 

This represents approximately 13.1 percent of the forested National Forest land below 5,500 

feet acres within the analysis area. 

The Trego Analysis Area supports an additional 1348 acres of stands that provide old growth 

character and are categorized as undesignated old growth. The entire 1348 acres are identified 

as undesignated effective (UEFF) with 0 acres identified as undesignated replacement old 

growth. Both the Forest Plan designated old growth and undesignated old growth-character 

comprise the existing condition for old growth habitat within the Trego Analysis Area. There is an 

abundance of old growth habitat within and adjacent to the Trego Analysis Area as well as 

across the Forest as documented in the Old Growth Project File. 

The public views the disturbance of old growth habitat with varying philosophies. Some advocate 

preserving all old growth, while others feel an amount less than what exists is acceptable. 

Management activities (timber harvesting, motorized road access) have the potential to impact 

the effectiveness of existing old growth habitat or specific components of old growth. Proposed 

harvest activities could remove some of the attributes associated with old growth character 

(UEFF) stands. Open roads can also affect habitat use of certain old growth species such as the 

fisher due to habitat loss through the cutting of snags and removal of down woody material 

adjacent to designated old growth stands. The desire for retention of old growth habitat has been 

expressed in public comments (Scoping Comment Letters #1, #7, #10, #14). 

Indicators: 

• Acres of vertical structure removed 

• Acres of harvest in undesignated effective old growth (UEFF) 
Alternatives

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 2-3 

• Road length built adjacent or through designated old growth 

• Number of proposed units adjacent to old growth 

• Acres of edge effect in old growth 

• Acres of interior habitat remaining in old growth 

• Acres of additional old growth designated 

• Acres treated to maintain old growth characteristics or trend towards old growth 

• Percent of designated old growth in the analysis area 

Issue #2 – Vegetation Management: 

As stated in Chapter 1, a desired condition for vegetation in the Trego Area is a diverse and 

healthy ecosystem that has been managed so that forests are in conditions that have the 

capacity for renewal and recovery from disturbances. Another desired condition is for forests to 

be managed so forest products and other economic opportunities related to the forest are made 

available to support the economy of the local geographic area. One commentor felt that this 

project is important to the local economy in Lincoln County and timing is crucial with another 

sawmill closing and reduced timber sale volumes from federal lands. This commentor asked that 

we create alternatives that allow us to manage our lands effectively and complimented us on our 

efforts to produce timber sales in the Trego Area. One commentor expressed concern that we 

reduce further loss of timber volume associated with bark beetle infestations by managing all 

high risk stands in the Trego Area. Commentors expressed concern that 5 million board feet 

proposed with the project being too low. They proposed larger trees be removed, more openings 

be created to promote regeneration of shade intolerant species, and a more aggressive timber 

extraction program to contribute to sustaining the economic viability of the communities and 

businesses traditionally dependent on forest based resources. See Scoping Comment Letters 

#3, #8, #9, and #15. 

Indicators: 

• Acres of stands treated for Douglas-fir Beetle hazard reduction 

• Acres of stands treated where stand density is reduced, improving vigor of the stands and 

reducing ladder fuels 

• Acres of emergent larch stands treated, increasing the sustainability of these stands 

• Acres of stands treated with high mortality 

• Total Acres of harvest treatment 

• Timber Harvest Volume 

• Total Employment (Full and Part-time jobs) 

Other Concerns 

The team evaluated other concerns that helped frame the scope of the analysis during the scoping 

process. These concerns were not considered major issues because they were resolved through 

project design and, therefore, were not used to develop alternatives analyzed in detail. These 

concerns are addressed within the effects analysis by resource in Chapter 3 of this EA. 

Recreation: A concern was expressed about the potential of increased snowmobile use 

affecting cross-country ski recreation and did not support the Sunday Mountain and Bear Paw 

Trails proposed for snow vehicle use or any sections of trails improved or added (Letters #1, #7). 

Another commentor expressed concern with the proposed reduction in OHV opportunities in the 

National Forest lands and requested that existing roads and other infrastructure be develop as a 

managed trail system for motorized recreation (Letter #6). Another commentor supported the 

proposals for trail creation, improvement, and maintenance, as well as the improvements 

discussed for the Bear Paw Lake site (Letter #15). Another commentor requested that we 

provide “year round access to Sunday Mtn lookout to serve the general public need, not just the 

young and fit” (Letter #11). 
Chapter 2 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

2-4 Alternatives 

Road Management: One commentor supported road decommissioning and asked that specific 

roads be considered for decommissioning (Letter #1). Another commentor felt that there is an 

over abundance of roads in the Trego Area and supported closures of roads (Letter #7). Other 

commentors were against decommissioning roads and had the opinion that more damage 

occurs in some instances with decommissioning activities (Letter #2); that roads are a significant 

investment in the past, present, and future management of our forest and should not be 

permanent obliterated (Letter #3, #9, #11). Other commentors voiced concerns on the amount of 

roads open to the public (Letters #3, #11) and wanted more roads open during hunting season 

(Letter #13). Road storage was supported if the roads would remain intact and are still monitored 

for noxious weeds, adequate BMPs, and remain available for fire suppression access (Letter 

#3). 

Threatened, Endangered, Sensitive, and Management Indicator Species (MIS) and 

Habitats: One commentor supported the management activities proposed to reduce the 

disturbance to white-tailed deer habitat and reduce the risk of effects to old growth habitats 

(Letter #1). Another commentor recommended that hiding cover be retained in specific harvest 

units (Letter #4). One commentor expressed a concern that natural habitat for wildlife not 

deteriorate (Letter #12). One commentor expressed concern that timber harvest would disrupt 

wolf activity in the Trego Area (Letter #7). Another commentor expressed a concern that 

proposed management activities would cumulatively affect threatened, endangered, and 

sensitive wildlife species and that proposed road closures would not adequately provide for the 

needs of those species (Letter #14). 

RANGE OF ALTERNATIVES

Section 102(2)(e) of National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) states that all Federal agencies shall 

"study, develop, and describe appropriate alternatives to recommended courses of action in any 

proposal which involves unresolved conflict concerning alternative uses of available resources." 

An Environmental Assessment must also "rigorously explore and objectively evaluate all reasonable 

alternatives" [40 CFR 1502.14(a)]. The courts have established that this direction does not mean 

that every conceivable alternative must be considered, but that selection and discussion of 

alternatives must permit a reasoned choice and foster informed decision making and informed public 

participation. 

The range of alternatives may extend beyond the limits set by the Forest Plan goals and objectives 

under the NEPA; however, the National Forest Management Act (NFMA) requires that the selected 

alternative fully comply with the Forest Plan unless the plan is amended in accordance with 36 CFR 

219.10(f). 

The range of alternatives presented in this chapter was determined by evaluating public and internal 

comments and the Purpose and Need for the project. This project is intended to move the landscape 

toward long-term ecosystem sustainability, reduce fuels in the urban interface, and provide goods 

and services to support the local and regional economy. Other influences included Forest Plan goals, 

objectives, existing and desired conditions, standards and guidelines; federal laws, regulations, and 

policies; and economic viability. Within these parameters, the alternatives developed by the ID Team 

display a reasonable range of outputs, treatments, costs, management requirements, design criteria, 

and effects on resources. 

In addition to the alternatives considered in detail, the ID Team examined another alternative during 

the analysis process. Although this alternative contributed to the reasonable range, it was eliminated 

from further consideration for the reasons listed below. 
Alternatives

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Trego EA 

 Alternatives 2-5 

ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED BUT ELIMINATED FROM DETAILED STUDY 

One organization requested the following be a feature of one or more alternatives to be fully 

analyzed for comparison to others in the EA. Our responses to these requests are shown in bold 

print: 

• No Forest Plan Amendments; 

Response: Alternative C will have no Forest Plan Amendments. 

 

• Given the controversial nature of old-growth logging, no active management inside old growth 

Response: Alternative C proposes no active management in old growth. 

• Fuel reduction activities only dealing with vegetative conditions in the immediate vicinity of private 

 homes and other structures; 

Response: By only treating fuel conditions within 300 feet (immediate vicinity) of 

 private structures we would not be addressing forest restoration concerns, ecological 

 sustainability, fire adaptive ecosystems, or firefighter and public safety. 

 

• Bring all roads in the project area to meet BMP standards; 

Response: We are not required to meet BMP standards on all roads. BMPs are a 

 moving target with the standards or emphasis continually changing. Many of the 

 roads in the Trego Area have met BMP standards for harvest projects over the last 15 

 years. This includes the BMPs implemented with the timber harvest resulting from the 

 1996 Trego EA and a Public Works Project completed in August of 2001 that installed 

 BMPs not funded with timber sales. With the current BMP emphasis on surface water 

 deflection, some of these roads will now need additional BMPs. 

The Trego Proposed Action would implement BMPs, with timber sales funding 

 road maintenance to meet current BMP standards on 45.68 miles of road. Condition surveys did 

not identify any priority BMP needs on the remainder of the road system in 

 the Trego Area. 

• Include all actions necessary to bring streams into conformance with Riparian Management Objectives; 

Response: The District and Forest have and are currently collecting stream 

information which will allow us to evaluate if interim direction, as described in Inland 

Native Fish Strategy (INFS), is or is not applicable for the different watersheds on the 

Forest. Collected data will help define Riparian Management Objectives (RMO) as 

related to reference watershed conditions on the Forest. Until all required information 

is collected and evaluated, the District will be using interim direction. There are a number of 

actions that the Forest Service can take to help improve watershed/stream channel health. For 

those stream channels that do not meet interim direction for RMO, proposed actions would 

initiate changes, which over time, would allow the channel to move towards meeting interim 

direction. 

To improve watershed health, the proposed actions will include the following: 

1) proposed road reconstruction and reconstruction will include appropriate BMP’s 

2) roads not needed for forest management will be decommissioned 

3) proposed timber harvest will not exceed allowable peak flow increases 

4) identified range improvement work within RHCA’s will be accomplished as funding 

 becomes available 

5) road culverts that restrict aquatic organism passage will be replaced as funding becomes 

 available 

6) proposed timber harvest will follow INFS direction within Riparian Habitat Conservation 

 Areas 

7) proposed timber harvest operations will follow BMP for erosion control and SMZ protection 

8) a number of roads within RHCAs will be decommissioned 

9) channel improvement work will be accomplished as funds become available 

10) a number of design criteria will be implemented to reduce sediment delivery to water 

 channels 
Chapter 2 

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Trego EA 

2-6 Alternatives 

• In recognition of the chronic KNF road maintenance back-log, no new roads constructed and no roads 

 kept on the landscape that will not be needed for management in the next ten years; 

 Response: We are not aware of any roads in the Trego Area that are behind in maintenance 

 other than the unclassified roads that have been proposed for decommissioning. No new road 

 construction is proposed. 

• No roads placed in “storage” with stream crossings not completely recontoured, in recognition of the 

 watershed damage of eventual failure and in recognition of possibly decreasing future funds; 

 Response: we are directed under Forest Service regulations and policy to determine and 

provide for the minimum Forest Transportation System that best serves current and anticipated 

management objectives and public uses of National Forest System (NFS) Lands. Many 

unplanned, unauthorized, or unclassified roads exist within NFS Lands and we are directed to 

perform a Roads Analysis to determine the need for each road. The ID team conducted a 

thorough Roads Analysis, analyzing to determine the need for each road. Unneeded roads can 

either be decommissioned or converted to another use. We propose a portion of Road 3730C to 

be converted to a trail and we propose decommissioning 12.47 miles of road that has been 

determined not needed for future long-term use. 

Roads determined to be needed in the future, but not presently, are candidates to be 

designated as either Intermittent Term Service or Intermittent Stored Service roads. There is no 

Forest Service Manual direction regarding whether a road is placed in Intermittent Term verses 

Intermittent Stored Service. Kootenai National Forest policy recommends placing roads not 

projected for use in the next 10 years or less in Intermittent Term Service, while roads projected 

not to be used for the next 10 years or longer be placed in Intermittent Stored Service. The ID 

team identified a portion of Road 3722 as the only candidate for Intermittent Stored Service. 

 The last portion of Road 3722 is the only road proposed for intermittent stored service. This 

 portion of the road has no culverts. 

• Water Yield not increased in any watershed currently not meeting Forest Plan standards, objectives, or 

 guidelines for water yield and sediment levels; 

 

Response: All action alternatives meet Forest Plan standards for water yields and sediment 

levels. 

• An alternative that proposes only prescribed burning for fuel reduction “needs” beyond the immediate 

 vicinity (300 feet) of private structures, in response to Hessburg and Lehmkuhl (1999). 

 Response: Hessburg and Lehmkuhl(1999) reference the Sand EIS. This area was 

 predominantly comprised of dry site Ponderosa pine where the fire intervals averaged 10-20 

 years, which unfortunately does not exist in the Trego Analysis Area. Hessburg and Lehmkuhl 

 did claim that the statement, “fuel levels are so high that thinning must take place first before 

 prescribed fire is used, is generally not true,” which we agree with. Hessburg and Lehmkuhl 

 also stated that, “A combination of thinning and fire can be a quicker, more cost-efficient, and 

 more ecologically-efficient method of restoration than fire alone,” which we also agree with.

• An alternative that would not disturb possible critical habitat for Canada lynx. 

 Response: Lynx habitat within the Trego Analysis Area was delineated according to the 

 Lynx Conservation Assessment and Strategy (LCAS) project planning objectives and 

 guidelines. Lynx habitat in this area is part of the Sunday/Trego Lynx Analysis Unit (LAU). All 

 alternatives will meet the conservation measures outlined in the LCAS that are intended to 

 conserve the lynx and to reduce or eliminate adverse effects from management activities on 

 federal lands. 

• An alternative that utilizes the principles of Conservation Biology on a landscape level, that maps core 

areas of relatively undisturbed habitats to be maintained, maps linkages of functional habitat between 

core areas to be established, providing opportunities for genetic interchange. Both core areas and 

linkages should naturally be the focus of the watershed rehabilitation and recovery (such as road 
Alternatives

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Trego EA 

 Alternatives 2-7 

removal). Buffer zones around core areas should also be recognized in their contribution to habitat 

needs for MIS and TES wildlife species; 

 Response: The majority of this analysis area lies within MA 15 whose goals in the Kootenai 

 Forest Plan are to “.....focus upon timber production using various standard silvicultural 

 practices....”. Core areas that function as linkages are mapped on a forest-wide basis. 

 Examples of this are grizzly bear core habitat and wolverine and fisher habitat that is mapped in 

 the “Wolverine and Fisher Approach to Conservation On the Kootenai National Forest” (USDA, 

 2004). Past harvest in this low elevation analysis area has not resulted in undisturbed habitats 

 that would function as core habitats. The roads in this area were analyzed through the RAP 

 process, and this proposal and alternatives reflect this. 

• An alternative that would preclude future fire suppression activities; 

 Response: Most of the Trego Analysis Area is within the Wildland Urban Interface. This part 

 of the Kootenai National Forest has not been identified as a Wildland Fire Use area, therefore 

 precluding fire suppression is not an option. 

• An alternative that is consistent with the Forest Restoration Principles and Criteria (DellaSala, et al, 

2003).

 Response: We have reviewed the DellaSala article. The recommendations in this article are 

 not consistent with Forest Plan goals for much of the Trego Analysis Area and is not consistent 

 with purpose and needs for this project. Recommendations which do not include harvest would 

 not meet the purpose and needs described in the Scoping Letter to the public. 

• An alternative that does not result in vegetative conditions “outside the historic patterns” (scoping 

notice at p. 3); 

Response: We cannot locate your statement referencing “outside the historic patterns (scoping 

notice at p. 3)” in our scoping letter sent out to the public. We assume this comment is from 

another project.

• Such alternatives would obviously provide many opportunities for employment of local people using 

service contracts. 

Response: Using local service contracts would provide many opportunities for employment 

 of local people to service contracts. To date, we have seen little indication that Congress is 

 willing to fund such an effort. 

ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED IN DETAIL

ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION 

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires that an EA include a "no action" alternative to 

serve as a baseline to compare action alternatives. The No Action Alternative is based on the 

premise that ecosystems change, even in the absence of active management. It is essentially a 

"status quo" strategy that allows current activities and policies, such as recreation administration, 

road maintenance and fire suppression, to continue. It proposes no actions that are contained in the 

action alternatives described above as described in this chapter. This alternative provides a baseline 

for comparison of environmental consequences of the other alternatives to the existing condition (36 

CFR 1502.14) and is a management option that could be selected by the Responsible Official. 

ACTIVITIES COMMON TO THE ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

Vegetation Management, Fuels Management, Road and Trail Management, and Resource 

Enhancement Projects are activities common to the action alternatives. 
Chapter 2 

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Trego EA 

2-8 Alternatives 

A. VEGETATION MANAGEMENT

Timber harvest proposed in the action alternatives are designed to meet one or more of the following 

objectives for vegetation management. All harvest is on lands identified as suitable for timber 

production in the Forest Plan. 

• reduce high tree densities and risk of crown fire; 

• promote and maintain fire-adapted vegetation; 

• enhance the potential of some stands to develop as old forest habitat; 

• reduce susceptibility of forest conditions to bark beetles and root rot; 

• replace stands with generally high levels of insect or disease-caused conditions with 

 particular emphasis on restoration of western larch 

• contribute timber products to the economy 

Three harvest methods are prescribed depending on individual stand conditions. 

Regeneration Harvest: This treatment would take place in stands that currently are not meeting 

target stand objectives. Examples of these types of stands are: those with low stocking caused by 

insect or disease mortality; stands with elevated levels of root disease where intermediate harvest is 

not appropriate; those with heavy fuels loads caused by past mountain pine beetle mortality; stands 

with in-growth of heavy subalpine fir and Douglas-fir regeneration; stands not reflecting historic 

disturbance regimes for cool moist forest types. Within proposed harvest units, there would be both 

live and dead trees that are designated for reserve; approximately 15-20 reserve trees per acre, 

favoring western larch and Douglas-fir would be retained where available. These reserve trees would 

provide seed, shelter for regeneration, and wildlife benefits, in addition to leaving large diameter 

trees on site for aesthetics. These reserve trees will become snags and down woody debris 

sometime in the future. Site preparation methods that favor natural and artificial regeneration of 

western larch would be used. Depending on the action alternative, this treatment ranges from 299 to 

675 acres. 

Intermediate Harvest: This treatment is being proposed to modify existing forest conditions in order 

to enhance growth, quality, vigor, and composition of a forest stand and to reduce fuels. In some 

areas, this treatment is expected to promote or enhance future old forest habitat conditions that 

otherwise might not occur due to high stand densities related to fire exclusion (i.e., Undesignated 

Effective Old Growth Stands). These treatments are designed to leave fully stocked stands. This 

treatment ranges from 753 to 1082 acres.

Uneven Aged Management: This treatment is being applied to a stand with considerable 

differences in age of trees in which 3 or more age classes are represented. This treatment will create 

a two-storied western larch stand and reduce stocking densities on 48 acres (Unit 54). 

Fuels resulting from all types of harvest would be treated through entire tree yarding, excavator 

piling, pile burning, and/or underburning. 

One hundred percent of the proposed harvest units would be harvested using ground-based systems 

(tractor yarding). Four harvest units would require winter harvest due to resource concerns (refer to 

Design Criteria, Table 2-10). 

B. FUELS MANAGEMENT 

For this project, three fuel management activities are proposed: Fuels treatment with 

Manipulation, Ecosystem Burning and Activity/Natural Fuel Reduction.

Fuels treatments proposed in the action alternatives are designed to meet the following objectives: 

• reduce fuels in the urban interface to reduce the risk of stand-replacing fires and the 

associated risk to private property values; 

• reduce excess fuel buildup 
Alternatives

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Trego EA 

 Alternatives 2-9 

• stimulate growth of browse and other native fire-dependent plant species 

• restore overall health of forest 

Fuels Treatment with Manipulation: This treatment would be used to accomplish a range of 

resource objectives in areas where the stand density, topography, proximity to private land or visual 

concerns preclude the use of underburning without prior mechanical treatment. Some non-saw 

timber commercial products may be available in these areas, including but not limited to the biomass utilization of chips, tops, firewood, and poles. Selective slashing could follow this product 

removal with resulting slash being excavator piled and burned. Piled slash would generally be 

burned in late fall after receiving adequate moisture to reduce the spread of fire in open areas and 

before the piled material becomes too wet to burn. Underburning could occur within 3-5 years after 

initial treatment. This activity ranges from 139 acres to 182 acres. 

Ecosystem Burning: Ecosystem burning is the application of prescribed fire to fire-dependent 

ecosystems to meet multi-resource objectives. This treatment is proposed where selective hand 

slashing followed by underburning is appropriate. The intent of this treatment in these areas is to 

reduce natural fuel loads, promote big game forage production, and mimic the frequent low-intensity 

underburns that historically maintained these areas. These burns may occur in the spring, prior to 

the growing season, or in the fall depending on precipitation amounts, utilizing hand and/or aerial 

ignition. Depending on the action alternative, underburning ranges from 458 acres to 730 acres. 

Activity Fuel Reduction includes entire tree yarding, excavator piling, and underburning. 

Activity fuels are fuels resulting from or altered by management practices such as timber harvesting, 

thinning, or road construction. Activity fuel reduction would be applied to units that contain timber 

harvest residue. Slash disposal is a necessary activity and would take place in successive years after 

harvest has been completed. Research (Graham, et al., 1999; Van Wagtendonk, 1996) has shown 

that residue left after timber harvest is highly susceptible to unplanned ignition and can result in fire 

intensities which hamper control efforts, create effects which would be detrimental to the 

environment, and endanger the public and suppression personnel. Without treatment, fuel loads in 

harvest units can be several times the normal fuel load that the stand would normally have available 

for combustion. However, prompt treatment of these residues greatly reduces the potential for 

intensified fire behavior. Treatment of fuels also acts to release nutrients back into the ecosystem at a 

much quicker rate if slash residue is allowed to naturally abate or decompose over several years. 

Natural fuels are fuels comprised of combustible wildland vegetation resulting from natural 

processes and not directly generated or altered by management practices, including fuel that has 

accumulated as a result of fire exclusion. Natural fuel reduction would occur in conjunction with all the 

treatments specified above. 

Depending on the action alternative, activity and natural fuel reduction ranges from 1697 acres to 

2717 acres. 

Entire tree yarding followed by excavator piling and pile burning: This fuel treatment method 

consists of yarding the entire portion of the tree – bole, top, and limbs – into a landing area 

for processing of logs and disposal of slash. This method is often used in combination with 

other treatments. Piles of yarded material are generally burned in late fall after receiving 

enough moisture to reduce the spread of fire in open areas and before piled material is too 

wet to burn. 

Entire tree yarding followed by excavator piling, pile burning, and underburning: The same 

treatment described above with a light underburn occurring within the next few years 

following treatment. 

Underburning: This fuel treatment method would be used to accomplish silvicultural 

objectives, natural and fuel hazard reduction, wildlife habitat enhancement, and forest health 

objectives. Underburning or southern and western aspects would be done during either the 
Chapter 2 

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Trego EA 

2-10 Alternatives 

spring (March thru June) or fall (September thru November) burn seasons while underburning 

on north and east aspects would be done during the late summer and fall burning season 

(late August thru November). 

Hand Piling: This activity is planned for 11 acres in Unit 17. This treatment involves the use 

of personnel to cut and pile slash for disposal. Piles would then be burned at a time when 

threat of escape would be minimal. There is no commercial harvest or salvage involved with 

this activity. All acres planned for this treatment are in the Wildland Urban Interface. This 

activity is dependent on available funding. 

C. ROAD and TRAIL MANAGEMENT

The Trego Roads Analysis was completed to comply with 36 CFR Part 212 Administration of the 

Forest Transportation System Final Rule and with the Forest Service Transportation Administrative 

Policy FSM Chapter 7700, both published January 12, 2001. The final rule is intended to help ensure 

that additions to the National Forest System road network are those deemed essential for resource 

management and use; that construction, reconstruction and maintenance of roads minimize adverse 

environmental impacts; and that unneeded roads are decommissioned and restoration of ecological 

processes are initiated. The policy removes emphasis on transportation development and adds a 

requirement for science-based transportation analysis. 

On December 9, 2005, a new final rule for 36 CFR Parts 212, 251, 261 and 295 went into effect and 

addresses travel management and designation of routes for motor vehicle use. This rule directs the 

development of a Motor Vehicle Use Map for each Administrative Unit. Unfortunately, the Trego 

Roads Analysis was completed just before this new final rule went into effect. The Trego ID Team 

modified the Roads Analysis to include a Travel Analysis to meet the requirements of the new final 

rule. 

The Travel Analysis identified routes for designation as open for travel, including the times they are 

open and the type of vehicle use that would be allowed within the Trego Analysis Area. This will 

become a starting point for the District’s and Forest’s Travel Access Analysis ID Team that will be 

developing the Motor Vehicle Use Map. The Forest has four years from the 2005 date to produce 

this map. Once that analysis is completed and a decision is signed, that site-specific decision and 

the corresponding Motor Vehicle Use Map will then govern the motorized use in the area. 

The new rule also issued new definitions that are included in the glossary appendix of the Trego 

Roads Analysis and Travel Analysis (USDA Forest Service, 2005). The main conflict with the 

definitions of the 2001 Final Rule and the 2005 Final Rule is that classified and unclassified roads 

are no longer applicable. Because this analysis was completed using the 2001 definitions, those 

definitions will remain applicable to this EA. 

 

Therefore, for all purposes of this document, roads referred to as unclassified will be 

synonymous with the new definition for unauthorized roads; and classified roads will be 

synonymous with National Forest System Roads (NFSR), or authorized roads. 

Road management activities common to the action alternatives include road maintenance, 

decommissioning, road resurfacing, roads placed into intermittent stored service, road restrictions, 

and road reclassification. Additional activities also discussed include Travel Access Management, 

access to National Forest Lands, private and utility access and Trail Management. Trail Management 

includes the addition of new trails to the National Forest Trail System. Please refer to the 

Transportation Section of Chapter 3 for more specific information on road management activities by 

alternative. Maps 2-5 thru 2-7 displays proposed road management by alternative. 

1) Road maintenance would be implemented on portions of roads in the analysis area to help 

restore natural drainage patterns and reduce the effects of non-point source sediment to streams. 

Best Management Practices (BMP) work would be applied to roads as required under Timber 
Alternatives

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Trego EA 

 Alternatives 2-11 

Sale contract specifications to reduce the effects roads have on water quality and produce both 

immediate and long-term benefits to the streams in the analysis area. Road maintenance ranges 

from 45.68 miles to 47.86 miles depending on the action alternative. 

2) Road decommissioning would be implemented on 12.47 miles of road in all action 

alternatives. Decommissioning removes roads from the landscape that are no longer needed for 

current or future resource management, which may also pose a threat to water quality, or reduce 

wildlife security. The methods to be used for decommissioning have been and could include full 

re-contouring to restore the original ground slope, partial re-contouring to fill ditches or remove 

unstable road shoulders, removing culverts and other drainage structures, ripping the roadbed to 

reduce compaction, installing water bars, outsloping the road prism, seeding and fertilizing 

disturbed soils, or blocking the road entrance and abandoning the road to allow re-vegetation. 

Decommissioning would stabilize and restore the roadbeds to a more natural state. This action 

would re-establish the natural drainage patterns interrupted when the roads were constructed. 

The resulting long-term reduction in the impacts produced by these roads would benefit streams 

in the analysis area. Decommissioning roads would also reduce the costs of road maintenance. A 

discussion on the affects of road decommissioning to recreation is located in the Recreation 

Section of this document. 

3) Road resurfacing with placement of stockpiled aggregate material would occur on 3.8 miles

of the Jim Creek Road 3730 to prevent further deterioration and restore Best Management 

Practice (BMP) effectiveness for water quality. This would occur in all action alternatives but is 

dependent upon funding. 

4) Intermittent Stored Service: The end portion of Road 3722 would be placed into intermittent 

stored service totaling .44 miles in all action alternatives. Access is not needed on this portion of 

the road for the next 10 to 20 years. Minimal work is needed to render the road hydrologically 

neutral; the Hydrologist and Engineer would prepare a list of work items needed to meet the 

hydrological concerns on this road. An earthen barrier would be installed on the south side of the 

stream crossing just past the junction of Road 3722A. 

5) Yearlong Road Restrictions: 

• For Management Area 11: In all action alternatives, Roads 851A, 851B, 15824, and 

3771A totaling 1.59 miles would be restricted yearlong to motorized vehicles, 

including snow vehicles, to meet Forest Plan direction for Management Area 11 

winter range. The open road density for MA 11 during the winter season would be 

reduced from 2.7 ORD to 2.2 ORD in all alternatives. Roads 851A, 851B, and 

15824 are currently open. Road 3771A has an earthen barrier that has been 

effectively restricting vehicle use. 

• For Deer Subherd: In all action alternatives, Roads 14247, 15173 and the last portion 

of Road 3606, totaling 1.98 miles would be restricted yearlong (including snow 

vehicles) to reduce open road densities in the Trego White-tailed Deer Subherd Area. 

Roads 14247 and 3606 are currently open. An earthen barrier has been effectively 

restricting vehicle use on Road 15173. (See the Transportation Section describing 

additions to this action associated with Alternative C). 

• For Old Growth: In all action alternatives, Roads 865D, 3731, and a portion of Road 

3722, totaling 3.59 miles would be restricted yearlong to motorized vehicles but open 

to snow vehicles December 1st to April 30th to meet Forest Plan standards for 

Management Area 13 (designated old growth) to help prevent the cutting of snags. 

Road 865D is currently restricted seasonally July 1st to November 30th. Roads 3731 

and 3772 are currently restricted October 15th to November 30th. (See the 
Chapter 2 

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Trego EA 

2-12 Alternatives 

Transportation Section describing an addition to this action associated with 

Alternative C). 

A total range of 7.16 miles to 7.18 miles are proposed to be restricted yearlong and added to 

the District Road Closure Order under 36 Code of Federal Regulations 261.51. 

6) Seasonal Road Restrictions: In all action alternatives, Roads 3770, 3770A, 3771, and 3783 

totaling 7.50 miles would be restricted seasonally to all motorized vehicles, including snow 

vehicles, from December 1st to April 30th to reduce wildlife disturbance in the winter season and 

provide wildlife security in the deer winter range. This would reduce open road densities during 

the winter months from 2.71 ORD to 1.54 ORD (resulting from yearlong and seasonal 

restrictions). 

7) Additions to National Forest System Roads: Unclassified Roads 14247, 15173, 15824, 

3771A, 3772, and 851B are needed for the Trego Long-Term Transportation System and would 

be reclassified as National Forest System roads totaling 3.52 miles in all action alternatives. 

8) Additions to National Forest Trail System: 

• Bear Paw Lake Trail: In all alternatives, a trail would be constructed (0.16 miles) to 

connect the end of Roads 3781 and 3781B, which are currently restricted yearlong. 

These two roads would be utilized to complete a loop trail from Bear Paw Lake. This 

loop would become a National Forest System Trail. However, the yearlong restricted 

road portions of this trail would remain NFSRs (National Forest System Roads) that 

are managed as a trail except during periods when the roads are needed for harvest 

activities. 

The new trail loop would total approximately 2 miles and would allow for nonmotorized use only on the restricted section of the trail (1.7 miles). Part of the 2-mile 

loop includes 0.3 miles of seasonally restricted Road 3781, which provides the 

access to Bear Paw Lake and the new trailhead. It is restricted to all motorized 

vehicles during the regular hunting season from October 15th to November 30th. This 

seasonally restricted portion of the road (and new loop trail) would remain open the 

rest of the year for trailhead access and would be open to over-snow vehicles 

December 1st to April 30th. 

• Sunday Mountain Trail: In all alternatives, the unclassified portion of Road 3730C, a 

length of 2.5 miles would be converted to a National Forest System Trail. Roads 

3732 and 3702 would be utilized to provide a trail loop, with an additional .5 miles of 

new trail constructed to complete the loop. The trail loop would total approximately 

7.3 miles. (See the Transportation Section describing proposed motorized and nonmotorized uses of this trail associated with each alternative). 

A total of 9.3 miles of trail would be added to the National Forest Trail System. 

9) Travel Access Management: The Trego Analysis Area would be designated as an area closed to 

public wheeled motorized use, except on roads designated for open travel (See Transportation 

Section in Chapter 3). In addition, vehicles may travel up to 300 feet off road for camping. All 

unauthorized trails within the Trego Analysis Area would be closed to motorized use. National Forest 

System trails would be designated for vehicle use depending upon which alternative is selected. All 

areas within the Trego Analysis Area boundary would be closed to cross-country/off-road motorized 

use. Enforcement of this area closure would help to eliminate cross-county use and the development 

of unauthorized roads. The closure would remain in effect until a Forest-wide Travel Analysis for 

designating motor vehicle routes is completed and a Motor Vehicle Use Map is produced, as required 

in 36 CFR Parts 212, 251, 261, and 295; November 9, 2005. The Travel Analysis and Motor Vehicle 

Use Maps are scheduled for completion in 2009. 
Alternatives

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Trego EA 

 Alternatives 2-13 

This project would also limit snowmobile use to reduce the safety hazard associated with the winter 

recreational season. To ensure safety, snowmobile users must follow State Laws. The Montana 

Code, Title 23-2-631 states that snowmobile travel on roads open to the public is legal only when 

travel by other vehicles is impractical or impossible. 

Roads designated for open travel, with their associated open periods and periods open for snow 

vehicles, are designated for motorized highway or motorized over-snow vehicles only. All roads, 

trails and areas were analyzed in the Trego Roads Analysis and Travel Analysis (2005). No routes or 

areas were designated for Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV) because of conflicts with Forest Plan 

objectives for other resources. However, under Alternative D, the new Sunday Mountain trail is 

proposed for designation as open to OHV or motorized non-highway vehicles. 

The decision signed for this project would govern the motorized use both with road, trail and area 

restrictions and with designated open routes for the Trego Area until the entire Forest has completed 

Travel Analyses and the resulting Motor Vehicle Use Maps are published. 

There would be a range of 59.48 to 59.50 miles of Forest Service roads designated for open travel in 

the Trego Analysis Area depending on the action alternative. Roads designated for open travel are 

listed in the Transportation Section of Chapter 3 of this document.

10) Access to National Forest System Lands: Legal access is needed to manage safely and 

efficiently two isolated parcels of National Forest Land that have not had access in the past. To obtain 

legal right-of-way access to these two parcels, the Forest Service would: 

• Open the currently restricted yearlong 0.37 miles portion of Road 3762, which leads 

to State owned lands. 

• Pursue easements through State Lands and all applicable landowners to gain access 

on existing roads that lead to the two parcels. 

• Restrict yearlong the last 0.6 miles of Road 3762A, to compensate for opening Road 

3762 and maintain existing open road densities for the area. 

Legal right-of-way easements would cross approximately 0.7 miles of State Lands and 

approximately 1.7 miles of private lands, which would include several different owners. 

11) Private and Access Utility Needs: 

• Permit utility companies (electric and phone) to bury cable along the right-of-way of 

Roads 3762B, 3762, 3762C, and 3730. The buried utility lines would be allowed on 

1.1 miles of National Forest System Roads. 

• An earthen barrier would be removed near the property boundary on Road 3762B to 

allow secondary residential emergency access for private land. 

D. RESOURCE ENHANCEMENT PROJECTS

Resource enhancement projects identified during project design are shown in the table below. 

These projects were identified to improve other resource values within the analysis area. The effects 

of these enhancement projects are presented in the effects analysis located in Chapter 3 of this 

document. Please refer to Map 2-1 at the end of this chapter for a display of the project locations. 

Several sources of funding exist for resource enhancement projects. Many items have the potential 

to be funded with Knutson-Vandenberg (KV) funds, while other items would be funded with 

Congressionally approved funds. Implementation would be based on annual budgets and program 

direction. If funding were not available, the improvements from these projects would not be 

accomplished. 
Chapter 2 

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Trego EA 

2-14 Alternatives 

RESOURCE ENHANCEMENT PROJECTS 

Table 2-1 presents the identified opportunities to improve riparian conditions, wildlife habitat, and 

recreation uses within the Trego Analysis Area. 

Table 2-1. Resource Enhancement Projects 

Ground Location Enhancement Project

T33N, R25W, Section 6 

Fences and/or slash will be installed/piled to keep cattle out of 

the middle Lime Creek wetlands (between road 3787A and 

private land) to reduce possible trampling of sensitive plants.

T33N, R25W, Section 5 

Install a water trough near the Lime Creek drainage (near the 

intersection of roads 3780 and 3781) to reduce cattle entry into 

Lime Creek. Slash may be used to keep cattle from entering the 

drainage and creating additional bank degradation.

T35N, R25W, Section 6 

Lime Creek Stream Restoration – Remove fallen wooden culvert 

on un-numbered spur of Road 3787A and restore stream 

channel. 

T35N, R25W, Sections 5 and 8 Lime Creek Stream Restoration – Rehabilitate stream channel 

banks on old skid trail crossings of Lime Creek. 

T35N, R25W, Section 19 Stewart Creek Stream Restoration – Rehabilitate stream channel 

banks on old skid trail crossings of Stewart Creek. 

Analysis Area Wide Snag Creation 

(See Design Criteria, Table 2-10) 

Analysis Area Wide Posting of Old Growth Areas adjacent to open roads. 

Bear Paw Lake 

T33N, R25W, Section 5 

Install Table, Fire Ring, and hitching post at Bear Paw Lake. 

Define the picnic space by leveling, adding some gravel, and 

seeding the well-worn area to help contain use and limit 

uncontrolled spread. Repair or replace existing wooden 

platforms. 

T34N, R25W, Section 32 

T33N, R25W, Section 5 

Bear Paw Lake Construct .16 miles of trail to connect Roads 3781 and 3781B. 

T33N, R25W, Sections 31 and 32 

Sunday Mountain 

Construct .5 miles of new trail to connect Roads 3732 and 3702. 

Convert the unclassified portion of Road 3730C, a length of 2.5 

miles to a NFS trail. 

Analysis Area Wide Road System Enhancements 

 (Decommissioning and BMP Upgrades) 

DESIGN CRITERIA 

Table 2-10 located at the end of this chapter describes the Design Criteria applied to this project to 

protect resources. 

MONITORING 

Monitoring and evaluation compares the end results being achieved to those projected in the KNF 

Forest Plan. Monitoring is conducted on a sample basis to evaluate the overall progress in 

implementing the Forest Plan, the assumptions on which the Forest Plan is based, and to provide a 

feedback loop for determining effectiveness of project and mitigation implementation (USDA Forest 

Service, 1987a). For this project, monitoring and evaluation would be conducted as described in 

Appendix C. Those monitoring components not specifically discussed in this appendix tier to the 

monitoring described in the Forest Plan. 
Alternatives

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 2-15 

ACTIVITIES SPECIFIC TO THE ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

Features unique to each alternative are described below. Maps displaying each alternative are found 

at the end of this chapter (Maps 2-5 thru 2-7). 

ALTERNATIVE B – PROPOSED ACTION (Maps 2-2 and 2-5)

Intent: Alternative B was designed to meet the purpose and need for this project. 

This alternative was designed to implement findings and recommendations that resulted from the 

Trego Landscape Assessment and needs identified by the public during that analysis. The location of 

the treatment areas and their specific locations were conceptually designed and based on initial field 

reconnaissance. Features associated with this alternative include the following: 

• Three even-aged regeneration units would create openings over 40 acres (Units 12, 13, and 

47) due to insect and disease and fuel loading concerns. Regional Forester approval of 

these openings over 40 acres would be required before making a final decision. 

• This alternative also emphasizes intermediate harvest treatments in stands where forest 

density and structure is interfering with growth of fire-tolerant species such as western larch 

and Douglas-fir. Intermediate harvest is also proposed in one stand (Unit 37) that possesses 

old growth attributes (Undesignated effective old growth). UEFF stands provide old growth 

character and many support habitat conditions similar to those identified for designated old 

growth in the Forest Plan. However, these stands are not designated in the Forest Plan as 

management areas for old growth. The structure associated with this old growth character 

stand is at risk for reasons described in the Vegetation Section. This alternative also 

proposes ecosystem burning in UEFF stands (Units 41 and 43) to mimic the frequent lowintensity underburns that historically maintained the area in addition to promoting big game 

forage production. 

• This alternative treats 2169 acres within the Wildland Urban Interface. 

• This alternative would require a project-specific Forest Plan Amendment to MA 11 Timber 

Standard # 6 for movement corridors and Timber Standard #8 for opening sizes. 

• The new Bear Paw Lake Trail would total approximately 2 miles and would allow for nonmotorized use only.The open portion of Road 3781 that is currently restricted to all motorized 

vehicles from October 15th to November 30th would also be open to snow vehicles December 

1st to April 30th. 

• The new Sunday Mountain Trail would total 7.3 miles and would allow for non-motorized 

use except it would be open to snow vehicles from December 1st to April 30th. Roads 3702 

and 3732 are currently open December 1st to June 30th for motorized use, and December 1st

to April 30th for snow vehicles. 

• There would be 59.50 miles of Forest Service Roads designated for open travel in the Trego 

Analysis Area. 

Alternative B contains the elements of the Activities Common to the Action Alternatives and Design 

Criteria Common to the Action Alternatives described previously. Alternative B timber harvest and 

associated activities are summarized in the table below. 
Chapter 2 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

2-16 Alternatives 

Table 2-2. Summary of Timber Harvest and Associated Activities 

Alternative B

Timber Harvest Treatments 

Intermediate Harvest 1014 acres 

Regeneration Harvest 390 acres 

Uneven aged Management 48 acres 

Total Harvest 1452 acres 

Regeneration Harvest Openings Greater than 40 Acres 3 units 

Fuel Management 

Fuel Treatment with Manipulation 182 acres 

Ecosystem Burning 730 acres 

Fuel Management (Inside Harvest Units) 

Entire Tree Yard/Excavator Pile 478 acres 

Entire Tree Yard/Excavator Pile/Underburn 584 acres 

Regeneration Harvest followed by underburning 329 acres 

Regeneration Harvest followed by excavator piling and 

burning 61 acres 

Fuel Treatments within Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) 2169 acres 

Fuel Treatments outside Wildland Urban Interface 

(WUI) 195 acres 

Treatments within UEFF stands 

3 Units (1 Intermediate 

harvest and 2 Ecosystem 

Burning Units) 

Total Acres Treated 2364 acres 

Road and Trail Management 

Additions to National Forest System Roads 

(reclassify unclassified roads to NFS roads) 

3.52 miles 

Road Decommissioning 

Classified NFS Roads Decommissioned 

Unclassified Roads Decommissioned 

12.47 miles 

3.32 miles 

9.15 miles 

Road Resurfacing 3.8 miles 

Roads placed into Intermittent Stored Service .44 miles 

Additional Yearlong Road Restrictions 

For Management Area 11 

Miles of open road per square mile (ORD) for MA 11 

For Deer Subherd 

Change from allowing Snowmobiles (Travel Code 9) 

to Restricting Snowmobiles (Travel Code 5) 

For Old Growth 

7.16 miles 

1.59 miles 

2.20 miles 

1.98 miles 

0 miles 

3.59 miles 

Additional Seasonal Road Restrictions 7.5 miles 

Total Open Road Density (ORD) in MA 11 Winter Range 

(resulting from yearlong and seasonal restrictions) 1.54 miles 

Additions to National Forest System Trail System 

Management for Bear Paw Lake Trail 

Management for Sunday Mtn. Trail 

9.3 miles 

2.0 miles 

7.3 miles 

Road Maintenance BMPs to meet Timber Sale 

Requirements* 45.68 miles 

Permit utility companies to bury cable along road Right-ofWay 

Remove earthen barrier near property on Road 3762B to 

allow residential emergency access 

1.1 miles 

Yes 

Legal access to manage National Forest System Lands 

(Right-of-Way Easements) 

0.7 miles on State land 

1.7 miles on Private 

land 

Open 0.37miles of Road 

3762, Restrict 0.6 miles 

of Road 3762A Yearlong 

Roads designated for open travel in analysis area 59.50 miles 

*Not all 45.68 miles would be treated; only portions of the roads requiring work would be treated. 

+Refer to the Water Resources Section for a discussion on funding of decommissioning activities. Also refer 

to the Recreation Section for a discussion of the effects of road decommissioning on forest users. 
Alternatives

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 2-17 

Table 2-3. Alternative B Vegetation Management Summary 

Unit 

# Prescription Acres Management Area (s) 

Site 

Prep 

1 Intermediate 110 11 ETY/EP 

2 Intermediate 17 11 ETY/EP 

3 Fuel 

Treatment 21 11 EP/UB 

4 Intermediate 114 11/15/24 ETY/EP/

UB 

6 Intermediate 124 11/24 ETY/EP/

UB 

8 Intermediate 23 16 ETY/EP 

9 Intermediate 40 15 ETY/EP 

10 Intermediate 27 11 ETY/EP 

11 Intermediate 61 15 ETY/EP 

12 Regeneration 65 15 UB 

13 Regeneration 58 15 UB 

14 Intermediate 65 15 UB 

15 Regeneration 12 15 UB 

16 Underburn 105 11/15 UB 

17 Underburn 11 16 UB 

18 Intermediate 70 15 ETY/EP 

19 Underburn 14 15 UB 

20 Regeneration 29 11/15 EP 

21 Underburn 86 15 UB 

22 Intermediate 25 15 ETY/EP 

23 Intermediate 32 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

24 Intermediate 5 15 ETY/EP 

25 Regeneration 26 15 UB 

26 Regeneration 13 15 EP 

28 Intermediate 65 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

29 Fuel 

Treatment 139 15/21 EP 

30 Regeneration 14 15 EP 

Unit 

# Prescription Acres Management Area (s) 

Site 

Prep 

31 Regeneration 5 15 EP 

32 Regeneration 23 15 UB 

34 Intermediate 28 15 ETY/EP 

35 Intermediate 66 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

36 Intermediate 11 16 ETY/EP/

UB 

*37 Intermediate 37 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

38 Intermediate 27 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

39 Underburn 39 15/16 UB 

40 Underburn 85 15 UB 

*41 Underburn 207 15 UB 

42 Regeneration 32 15 UB 

*43 Underburn 65 15 UB 

44 Underburn 54 15 UB 

45 Underburn 64 15 UB 

47 Regeneration 94 15 UB 

48 Fuel 

Treatment 22 11 EP/UB 

49 Intermediate 11 11 ETY/EP/

UB 

50 Intermediate 24 11 ETY/EP 

51 Intermediate 20 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

52 Intermediate 12 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

53 Regeneration 19 15 UB 

54 Uneven Aged 

Mgmt 48 15 ETY/EP 

*Unit located in UEFF 

Explanation of Abbreviations: 

ETY Entire Tree Yard 

UB Underburn 

EP Excavator Pile 

ALTERNATIVE C (Maps 2-3 and 2-6) 

Intent: Alternative C shares the intent and many of the specific features of Alternative B, but 

in addition was developed to address Major Issue #1, Old Growth. 

Alternative C was developed based on the purpose and need and on public comments concerning 

the effects of proposed activities on old growth habitat, species that utilize old growth, big game 

winter range management. The Silvicultural treatment, size, and shape were modified for many units 

in this alternative based on further field verification and treatment goals. Alternative C incorporates 

the features of those listed above in Alternative B with the exception of the following modifications: 

• Intermediate harvest would not occur in Unit 37 (undesignated effective old growth character 

stand-UEFF) due to public concerns over management activities proposed in old growth 

habitat. 

• Ecosystem Burning would not occur in Units 41 and 43 as these are UEFF stands. No 
Chapter 2 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

2-18 Alternatives 

treatment would take place in UEFF stands due to public concerns over management 

proposed in these stands. 

• Two even-aged regeneration units would create an opening over 40 acres (Units 13 and 47) 

due to fuel loading concerns. Regional Forester approval of these opening over 40 acres 

would be required before making a final decision. 

• This alternative would implement three hundred foot no treatment buffers on regeneration 

harvest units adjacent to designated and undesignated old growth (UEFF) stands (Units 12, 

13, 15, 25, 47, and 53). 

• Units 3, 48 and 49 were deferred from treatment to meet Forest Plan Standards for 

movement corridors and opening sizes. Several units proposed in Alternative B were also 

modified to meet these two Forest Plan Standards: 

o Unit 1 in Alt. B (Units 65 and 66 in Alt. C) 

o Unit 6 in Alt. B (Units 55 and 62 in Alt. C) 

o Unit 4 in Alt. B (Units 63 and 64 in Alt. C) 

o Unit 50 

o Unit 10 

• This alternative treats 1522 acres within the Wildland Urban Interface 

• Within Deer Subherd Boundaries: In response to public comments and Forest Plan MA 11 

direction, Roads 14256, 3732A, 3762A, 3770A, 3781, 3781B, 3781C, and 3787A would be 

restricted yearlong to all motorized use including snowmobiles (Snowmobile use is allowed 

in Alternative B). This would result in an additional 5.37 miles of road restricted snowmobile 

use in the deer subherd. 

• For Old Growth Areas: The last 0.02 miles of Road 3783 would be restricted yearlong, 

including snowmobiles (Alternative B did not restrict this last 0.02 miles). A total range of 

7.18 miles are proposed to be restricted yearlong and added to the District Road Closure 

Order under 36 Code of Federal Regulations 261.51 

• The Sunday Mountain Trail would allow non-motorized use only and be restricted yearlong to 

all motorized vehicles, including snowmobiles. 

• There would be 59.48 miles of Forest Service Roads designated for open travel in the Trego 

Analysis Area. 

Alternative C timber harvest and associated activities are summarized in the table below: 

Table 2-4. Alternative C Harvest and Associated Activities 

Summary 

Timber Harvest Treatments 

Intermediate Harvest 753 acres 

Regeneration Harvest 299 acres 

Uneven aged Management 48 acres 

Total Harvest 1100 acres 

Regeneration Harvest Openings Greater than 40 Acres 2 units 

Fuel Management 

Fuel Treatment with Manipulation 139 acres 

Ecosystem Burning 458 acres 

Fuel Management (Inside Harvest Units) 

Entire Tree Yard/Excavator Pile 356 acres 
Alternatives

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 2-19 

Entire Tree Yard/Excavator Pile/Underburn 445 acres 

Regeneration Harvest followed by underburning 238 acres 

Regeneration Harvest followed by excavator piling and 

burning 61 acres 

Fuel Treatments within Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) 1522 acres 

Fuel Treatments outside Wildland Urban Interface 

(WUI) 175 acres 

Treatments within UEFF stands 0 Units 

Total Acres Treated 1697 acres 

Road and Trail Management 

Additions to National Forest System Roads 

(reclassify unclassified roads to NFS roads) 3.52 miles 

Road Decommissioning 

Classified NFS Roads Decommissioned 

Unclassified Roads Decommissioned 

12.47 miles 

3.32 miles 

9.15 miles 

Road Resurfacing 3.8 miles 

Roads placed into Intermittent Stored Service .44 miles 

Additional Yearlong Road Restrictions 

For Management Area 11 

Miles of open road per square mile (ORD) for MA 11 

For Deer Subherd 

Change from allowing Snowmobiles (Travel Code 9) 

to Restricting Snowmobiles (Travel Code 5) 

For Old Growth 

Restrict Road 3783 yearlong, including 

snowmobiles 

7.18 miles 

1.59 miles 

2.20 miles 

1.98 miles 

5.37 miles 

3.59 miles 

0.02 miles 

Additional Seasonal Road Restrictions 7.5 miles 

Total Open Road Density (ORD) in MA 11 Winter Range 

(resulting from yearlong and seasonal restrictions) 1.54 miles 

Additions to National Forest System Trail System 

Management for Bear Paw Lake Trail 

Management for Sunday Mtn. Trail 

9.3 miles 

2.0 miles 

7.3 miles 

Road Maintenance BMPs to meet Timber Sale 

Requirements* 45.68 miles 

Permit utility companies to bury cable along road Right-ofWay 

Remove earthen barrier near property on Road 3762B to 

allow residential emergency access 

1.1 miles 

Yes 

Legal access to manage National Forest System Lands 

(Right-of-Way Easements) 

0.7 miles on State land 

1.7 miles on Private 

land 

Open 0.37 miles of Road 

3762, Restrict 0.6 miles 

of Road 3762A Yearlong 

Roads designated for open travel in analysis area 59.48 miles 

*Not all 45.68 miles would be treated; only portions of the roads requiring work would be treated. 

+Refer to the Water Resources Section for a discussion on funding of decommissioning activities. Also refer 

to the Recreation Section for a discussion of the effects of road decommissioning on forest users. 

Table 2-5. Alternative C Vegetation Management Summary 

Unit 

# Prescription Acres Management Area (s) 

Site 

Prep 

8 Intermediate 23 16 ETY/EP 

9 Intermediate 40 15 ETY/EP 

10 Intermediate 9 11 ETY/EP 

11 Intermediate 61 15 ETY/EP 

12 Regeneration 21 15 UB 

13 Regeneration 41 15 UB 

14 Intermediate 65 15 ET/EP/

UB 

15 Regeneration 9 15 UB 

16 Underburn 105 11/15 UB 

Unit 

# Prescription Acres Management Area (s) 

Site 

Prep 

17 Underburn 11 16 UB 

18 Intermediate 70 15 ETY/EP 

19 Underburn 14 15 UB 

20 Regeneration 29 11/15 EP 

21 Underburn 86 15 UB 

22 Intermediate 25 15 ETY/EP 

23 Intermediate 32 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

24 Intermediate 5 15 ETY/EP 

25 Regeneration 16 15 UB 
Chapter 2 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

2-20 Alternatives 

Unit 

# Prescription Acres Management Area (s) 

Site 

Prep 

26 Regeneration 13 15 EP 

28 Intermediate 65 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

29 Fuel 

Treatment 139 15/21 EP 

30 Regeneration 14 15 EP 

31 Regeneration 5 15 EP 

32 Regeneration 23 15 UB 

34 Intermediate 28 15 ETY/EP 

35 Intermediate 66 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

36 Intermediate 11 16 ETY/EP/

UB 

38 Intermediate 27 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

39 Underburn 39 15/16 UB 

40 Underburn 85 15 UB 

41 Underburn 207 15 UB 

42 Regeneration 32 15 UB 

44 Underburn 54 15 UB 

45 Underburn 64 15 UB 

Unit 

# Prescription Acres Management Area (s) 

Site 

Prep 

47 Regeneration 81 15 UB 

50 Intermediate 15 11 ETY/EP 

51 Intermediate 20 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

52 Intermediate 12 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

53 Regeneration 15 15 UB 

54 Uneven Aged 

Mgmt 48 15 ETY/EP 

55 Intermediate 21 11 ETY/EP/

UB 

62 Intermediate 46 11/24 ETY/EP/

UB 

63 Intermediate 35 11/15/24 ETY/EP/

UB 

64 Intermediate 40 11/15 ETY/EP/

UB 

65 Intermediate 12 11 ETY/EP 

66 Intermediate 20 11 ETY/EP 

Explanation of Abbreviations: 

ETY Entire Tree Yard 

UB Underburn 

EP Excavator Pile

ALTERNATIVE D (Maps 2-4 and 2-7) 

Intent: This alternative was designed to address Major Issue #2 regarding public concerns 

associated with vegetation management. 

Alternative D shares many of the elements of the activities and design features of Alternative B; 

however, to address public concerns associated with Major Issue #2, Vegetation Management, this 

alternative results in the following modifications: 

• Proposes intermediate harvest in one stand (Unit 37) that possesses old growth attributes 

(Undesignated effective old growth). The structure associated with this old growth character 

stand is at risk for reasons described in the Vegetation Section. This alternative also 

proposes ecosystem burning in UEFF stands (Units 41 and 43) to mimic the frequent lowintensity underburns that historically maintained the area in addition to promoting big game 

forage production. 

• Proposes six even-aged regeneration units that would create an opening over 40 acres 

(Units 12, 13, 32, 35, 47, and 61) in size. Regional Forester approval of these opening over 

40 acres would be required before making a final decision. 

• Proposes prescription changes to Units 9, 23, 35, and 36 from intermediate harvest to 

regeneration harvest due to mortality and stocking density concerns. 

• Proposes five additional units for treatment: Units 56, 57, 60, and 61 as Intermediate 

Harvest, Unit 60 as a Regeneration Harvest. 

 -Unit 56 was added to treat larch, to increase the sustainability of the stand. 

-Units 57 and 60 were added due to mortality concerns. 

-Unit 61 was added due to stocking density concerns and to treat larch. 

 -Unit 59 as a Regeneration Harvest due to mortality and stocking of desired species. 
Alternatives

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 2-21 

• To respond to changes identified through more detailed field reconnaissance, two harvest 

units changed in size: 

 -Unit 32 increased from 23 acres to 59 acres. 

 -Unit 38 increased in size from 27 to 57 acres. 

• This alternative treats 2502 acres within the Wildland Urban Interface 

• The Sunday Mountain Trail would allow yearlong motorized use for motorcycles, all terrain 

vehicles (ATVs), and snowmobiles. Roads 3702 and 3732 are currently open to May 1st to 

June 30th to motorized use, excluding snow vehicles. (Alternatives B and C have different 

management proposals for this trail). 

Table 2-6. Alternative D Summary of Harvest and Associated Activities 

Timber Harvest Treatments 

Intermediate Harvest 1082 acres 

Regeneration Harvest 675 acres 

Uneven aged Management 48 acres 

Total Harvest 1805 acres 

Regeneration Harvest Openings Greater than 40 Acres 6 Units 

Fuel Management 

Fuel Treatment with Manipulation 182 acres 

Ecosystem Burning 730 acres 

Fuel Management (Inside Harvest Units) 

Entire Tree Yard/Excavator Pile 451 acres 

Entire Tree Yard/Excavator Pile/Underburn 679 acres 

Regeneration Harvest followed by underburning 571 acres 

Regeneration Harvest followed by excavator piling and 

burning 104 acres 

Fuel Treatments within Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) 2502 acres 

Fuel Treatments outside Wildland Urban Interface 

(WUI) 215 acres 

Treatments within UEFF stands 

3 Units (1 Intermediate 

harvest and 2 Ecosystem 

Burning Units) 

Total Acres Treated 2717 acres 

Road and Trail Management 

Additions to National Forest System Roads 

(reclassify unclassified roads to NFS roads) 

3.52 miles 

Road Decommissioning 

Classified NFS Roads Decommissioned 

Unclassified Roads Decommissioned 

12.47 miles 

3.32 miles 

9.15 miles 

Road Resurfacing 3.8 miles 

Roads placed into Intermittent Stored Service .44 miles 

Additional Yearlong Road Restrictions 

For Management Area 11 

Miles of open road per square mile (ORD) for MA 11 

For Deer Subherd 

Change from allowing Snowmobiles (Travel Code 9) 

to Restricting Snowmobiles (Travel Code 5) 

For Old Growth 

7.16 miles 

1.59 miles 

2.20 miles 

1.98 miles 

0 miles 

3.59 miles 

Additional Seasonal Road Restrictions 7.5 miles 

Total Open Road Density (ORD) in MA 11 Winter Range 

(resulting from yearlong and seasonal restrictions) 1.54 miles 

Additions to National Forest System Trail System 

Management for Bear Paw Lake Trail 

Management for Sunday Mtn. Trail 

9.3 miles 

2.0 miles 

7.3 miles 

Road Maintenance BMPs to meet Timber Sale 

Requirements* 47.86 miles 

Permit utility companies to bury cable along road Right-of- 1.1 miles 
Chapter 2 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

2-22 Alternatives 

Way 

Remove earthen barrier near property on Road 3762B to 

allow residential emergency access 

Yes 

Legal access to manage National Forest System Lands 

(Right-of-Way Easements) 

0.7 miles on State land 

1.7 miles on Private 

land 

Open 0.37 miles of Road 

3762, Restrict 0.6 miles 

of Road 3762A Yearlong 

Roads designated for open travel in analysis area 59.50 miles 

*Not all 47.86 miles would be treated; only portions of the roads requiring work would be treated. 

+Refer to the Water Resources Section for a discussion on funding of decommissioning activities. Also refer 

to the Recreation Section for a discussion of the effects of road decommissioning on forest users. 

Table 2-7. Alternative D Vegetation Management Summary 

Unit 

# Prescription Acres Management Area (s) 

Site 

Prep 

1 Intermediate 110 11 ETY/EP 

2 Intermediate 17 11 ETY/EP 

3 Fuel 

Treatment 21 11 EP/UB 

4 Intermediate 114 11/15/24 ETY/EP/

UB 

6 Intermediate 124 11/24 ETY/EP/

UB 

8 Intermediate 23 16 ETY/EP 

9 Regeneration 40 15 ETY/EP 

10 Intermediate 27 11 ETY/EP 

11 Intermediate 61 15 ETY/EP 

12 Regeneration 65 15 UB 

13 Regeneration 58 15 UB 

14 Intermediate 65 15 UB 

15 Regeneration 12 15 UB 

16 Underburn 105 11/15 UB 

17 Underburn 11 16 UB 

18 Intermediate 70 15 ETY/EP 

19 Underburn 14 15 UB 

20 Regeneration 29 11/15 EP 

21 Underburn 86 15 UB 

22 Intermediate 25 15 ETY/EP 

23 Regeneration 32 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

24 Intermediate 5 15 ETY/EP 

25 Regeneration 26 15 UB 

26 Regeneration 13 15 EP 

28 Intermediate 65 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

29 Fuel 

Treatment 139 15/21 EP 

30 Regeneration 14 15 EP 

31 Regeneration 5 15 EP 

32 Regeneration 59 15 UB 

34 Intermediate 28 15 ETY/EP 

35 Regeneration 66 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

36 Regeneration 11 16 ETY/EP/

UB 

*37 Intermediate 37 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

38 Intermediate 27 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

Unit 

# Prescription Acres Management Area (s) 

Site 

Prep 

39 Underburn 39 15/16 UB 

40 Underburn 85 15 UB 

*41 Underburn 207 15 UB 

42 Regeneration 32 15 UB 

*43 Underburn 65 15 UB 

44 Underburn 54 15 UB 

45 Underburn 64 15 UB 

47 Regeneration 94 15 UB 

48 Fuel 

Treatment 22 11 EP/UB 

49 Intermediate 11 11 ETY/EP/

UB 

50 Intermediate 24 11 ETY/EP 

51 Intermediate 20 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

52 Intermediate 12 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

53 Regeneration 19 15 UB 

54 Uneven Aged 

Mgmt 48 15 ETY/EP 

56 Intermediate 75 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

57 Intermediate 30 15 ETY/EP 

59 Regeneration 20 15 UB 

60 Intermediate 82 15 ETY/EP/

UB 

61 Regeneration 80 15 UB 
Alternatives

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 2-23 

*Unit located in UEFF 

Explanation of Abbreviations: 

ETY Entire Tree Yard 

UB Underburn 

EP Excavator Pile

COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVES 

This section displays a tabular comparison of the alternatives considered in detail and the 

environmental effects of each expressed by the units of measure. This information, along with a 

detailed discussion of the environmental consequences presented in Chapter 3, provides the basis 

for comparing alternatives. 

Table 2-8. Comparison of Purpose and Need Objectives by Alternative 

(Some harvest and road management activities are listed more than once because they meet more than one Purpose and 

Need). 

There is safe and efficient access for Forest Service land 

management activities and Fire Suppression. A B C D 

Reclassify unclassified roads to National Forest System Roads 

Decommission unneeded classified National Forest System Roads 

Decommission unclassified Roads 

Resurface Jim Creek Road 3730 

Place end portion of Road 3722 into Intermittent Stored Service 

Obtain legal access to National Forest System Lands 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

3.52 miles 

3.32 miles 

9.15 miles 

3.80 miles 

0.44 miles 

0.70 miles 

state 

1.70 miles 

private 

3.52 miles 

3.32 miles 

9.15 miles 

3.80 miles 

0.44 miles 

0.70 miles 

state 

1.70 miles 

private 

3.52 miles 

3.32 miles 

9.15 miles 

3.80 miles 

0.44 miles 

0.70 miles 

state 

1.70 miles 

private 

There is reasonable and safe access to private land and private 

utilities when required by law. 

Permit utility companies to bury utility lines along right-of-way of 

National Forest System Roads No 1.10 miles 1.10 miles 1.10 miles 

Remove earthen barrier located near property boundary on Road 

3762B to allow secondary residential emergency access No Yes Yes Yes 

There is suitable and safe access for recreation and other public 

access values. 

Bear Paw Lake Trail (Non-Motorized Use except Road 3781 would 

be open to snow vehicles Dec. 1st to April 30th.) 

Construct .16 miles to connect the end of Roads 3781 and 

3781B. Utilize these roads to complete a loop trail from Bear 

Paw Lake totaling 2.0 miles.

No Yes Yes Yes 

Sunday Mtn Trail 

Convert unclassified portion of Road 3730C, 2.5 miles to a 

system trail. Utilize 3702 and 3732 as a loop trail, build 

approximately 0.5 miles of new trail to complete the loop. Trail 

would total 7.3 miles.

No Yes 

Allow nonmotorized 

use, open 

to snow 

vehicles 

12/1 to 4/30 

Yes 

Allow nonmotorized 

use and 

be 

restricted 

yearlong 

to 

motorized 

vehicles, 

including 

snow 

vehicles 

Yes 

Allow 

Yearlong 

motorized 

use for 

motorcycles

ATVs, and 

snow 

vehicles 
Chapter 2 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

2-24 Alternatives 

Table 2-8. Comparison of Purpose and Need Objectives by Alternative (cont’d) 

Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Species and 

Management Indicator Species habitat needs, as defined by 

research and science, have been met. 

A B C D 

Restrict roads to motorized vehicles, including snow vehicles, to 

meet Forest Plan Direction for: 

MA11: 

Yearlong Restrictions 

Seasonal Restrictions from 12/1 to 4/30 

Decommission Roads 

Deer Subherd:

Yearlong Restrictions (in addition to Yearlong in MA11) 

Seasonal Restrictions from 12/1 to 4/30 

Change from allowing Snowmobiles (Travel Code 9) to 

Restricting Snowmobiles (Travel Code 5) 

Decommission Roads 

For Old Growth: 

Yearlong Restrictions 

Decommission Roads 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

1.59 miles 

7.50 miles 

3.37 miles 

1.98 miles 

7.50 miles 

1.83 miles 

3.59 miles 

3.65 miles 

1.59 miles 

7.50 miles 

3.37 miles 

1.98 miles 

7.50 miles 

5.37 miles 

1.83 miles 

3.59 miles 

3.65 miles 

1.59 miles 

7.50 miles 

3.37 miles 

1.98 miles 

7.50 miles 

1.83 miles 

3.59 miles 

3.65 miles 

Sediment, water quality, and water quantity effects from roads 

to streams, riparian areas, and wetlands have been reduced. 

Decommission unneeded classified NFS Roads 

Decommission unneeded unclassified NFS Roads 

Road miles within RHCAs (includes unclassified and 

classified segments) 

Road Maintenance BMPs to meet Timber Sale Requirements* 

Roads placed into Intermittent Stored Service 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

1.94 miles 

5.62 miles 

2.20 miles 

45.68 miles 

 0.44 miles 

1.94 miles 

5.62 miles 

2.20 miles 

45.68 miles 

 0.44 miles 

1.94 miles 

5.62 miles 

2.20 miles 

47.86 miles 

 0.44 miles 

There are old growth stands and other unique or special 

habitats. 

Yearlong Road Restrictions to help prevent cutting of old growth 

snags. 

Decommission Roads to benefit designated Old Growth Habitat. 

0 

0

3.59 miles 

3.65 miles 

3.59 miles 

3.65 miles 

3.59 miles 

3.65 miles 

Road Maintenance Costs have been reduced. 

Decommission Roads 

Roads placed into Intermittent Stored Service 

Additions to National Forest Trail System 

Bear Paw Lake Trail 

Sunday Mtn. Trail 

0 

0 

0 

0 

12.47 miles 

 0.44 miles 

2.00 miles 

7.30 miles 

12.47 miles 

 0.44 miles 

2.00 miles 

7.30 miles 

12.47 miles 

 0.44 miles 

2.00 miles 

7.30 miles 

The Travel Plan within the Trego Analysis Area is easily 

understood and enforceable. 

Roads designated for open travel in analysis area. 0 59.50 miles 59.48 miles 59.50 miles 

Forests are in a condition that they have the capacity for 

renewal and recovery from disturbances. 

Acres of Douglas-fir Beetle hazard reduction 

Acres of Stands where Stocking Density is Reduced 

Acres of Larch Stands Treated 

Acres of stands with high mortality or high surface fuel loads treated 

0 

0 

0 

0 

723 acres 

1178 acres 

899 acres 

392 acres 

368 acres 

1013 acres 

718 acres 

284 acres 

753 acres 

1420 acres 

1021 acres 

392 acres 

Fuel loads have been managed to reduce the risks of standreplacement fires in stands adjacent to private property. 

Fuel Reduction within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) 

Activity Fuels: 

Fuel Treatment with Manipulation/Excavator Pile 

Fuel Treatment with Manipulation/Excavator Pile/Underburn 

Fuel Treatment with Manipulation/Hand Pile 

Entire Tree Yard/Excavator Pile 

Entire Tree Yard/Excavator Pile/Underburn 

Regeneration Harvest/Underburn 

Regeneration Harvest/Excavator Pile 

Natural Fuels:

Ecosystem Burning 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

2169 acres 

139 acres 

43 acres 

11 acres 

478 acres 

552 acres 

227 acres 

47 acres 

672 acres 

1522 acres 

139 acres 

0 acres 

11 acres 

356 acres 

413 acres 

156 acres 

47 acres 

400 acres 

2502 acres 

139 acres 

43 acres 

11 acres 

451 acres 

679 acres 

449 acres 

58 acres 

672 acres 
Alternatives

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 2-25 

Table 2-8. Comparison of Purpose and Need Objectives by Alternative (cont’d) 

Fire is being used to emulate its natural role. 

Acres of Ecosystem Burning in analysis area (WUI and non-WUI) 0 730 acres 458 acres 730 acres 

A variety of quality recreation experiences are provided. 

Install a table, fire ring, and hitching post at Bear Paw Lake. Define 

the picnic space by leveling, adding some gravel, and seeding the 

well-worn area to help contain use and limit uncontrolled spread. 

No Yes Yes Yes 

Forest Products and other economic opportunities related to 

the forest are made available to provide wood products for the 

nation and to contribute to the local timber related economy. 

Timber Harvest Acres 0 2364 1697 2717 

Timber Harvest Volume (MBF) 0 6857 5252 9877 

Total Estimated Employment (Full and Part-time jobs) 0 141 108 204 

Table 2-9. Comparison of Issue Indicators by Alternative 

INDICATOR ALT A ALT B ALT C ALT D 

Issue #1 – OLD GROWTH

Acres of vertical structure removed in designated Old 

Growth and replacement Old Growth 0 0 0 0 

Acres of harvest in undesignated effective old growth 

(UEFF) 0 36 0 36 

Road length (local roads in miles) open and built adjacent 

or through designated old growth 

5.59 

existing 0 0 0 

Number of proposed regeneration harvest units adjacent 

to designated old growth or replacement Old Growth 0 1 0 2 

Acres of edge influence in designated and replacement 

old growth 223 251 223 258 

Acres of interior habitat remaining in designated old 

growth and replacement old growth 1727 1699 1727 1692 

Acres of additional old growth designated 0 0 0 0 

Acres treated to maintain old growth characteristics or 

trends towards old growth 0 0 0 0 

Percent of designated old growth in analysis area 

(designated and replacement old growth) 13.1 13.1 13.1 13.1 

Issue #2 – VEGETATION MANAGEMENT 

Acres of stands treated for Douglas-fir Beetle hazard 

reduction 0 723 368 753 

Acres of stands treated where stand density is reduced, 

improving vigor of the stands and reducing ladder fuels 0 1178 1013 1420 

Acres of Larch stands treated 0 899 718 1021 

Acres of stands with high mortality or high surface fuel loads 

treated 0 392 284 392 

Timber Harvest Acres 0 2364 1697 2717 

Timber Harvest Volume (MBF) 0 6857 5252 9877 

Total Estimated Employment (Full and Part-time jobs) 0 141 108 204 
Chapter 2 

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 

 

Management Requirements and Design Criteria The measures identified in the following table serve to further reduce impacts to the specific resources identified. Most are considered des

in all action alternatives. Several abbreviations are used in the responsibility section of Table 2-10. The following explains those abbreviations: 

 DR District Ranger BT Botanist  SA Sale Administrator TMC Timber Marking Crew  SP Sale Prep NWM Noxious Weed Manager  WB Wildlife Biologist LEO Law Enforcement Officer 

 FMO Fire Management Officer IDT Interdisciplinary Team me ENG Engineer ARCH Archaeologist  SILV Silviculturist HYD Hydrologist  DRC District Road Coordinator TP Timber Sale Purchaser  RF Resource Forester RA Range Administrator  FAFMA Fuels Assistant Fire Management Officer 

Table 2-10. Management Requirements and Design Criteria 

Objective Task Responsibility D

Minimize disturbance to raptors 

If raptor-nesting territories are observed, avoid disturbance when possible, during 

the nesting/fledgling period (5/15-8/15). Include in sale contract if sites are known 

prior to selling. Consult with Wildlife Biologist on buffers and disturbance period dates. 

SA, WB, SP, FMO Pr

Maintain cavity-nesting habitat 

Within regeneration harvest units, existing DF, WL, and PP snags greater than 10" 

dbh and 10 feet in height will be marked and protected during timber harvest and site preparation as long as safety requirements are met. Where snag numbers are insufficient to meet snag levels by VRU (identified in the Snag Section at the 100% level), merchantable dead trees will be reserved (Provisions CT2.3# and CT6.32#). If felled for safety, they will be left on site. Maintain the largest snags first. 

WB, SP, TMC, SA, 

FMO 

Pr

Maintain cavity-nesting habitat within intermediate harvest units 

Within intermediate harvest units, maintain existing snags greater than 10” dbh and 10 feet in height as long as safety requirements are met. Retention snag 

numbers are designated by VRU (identified in the snag section in the EIS at the 100% level). Maintain the largest snags first. Where desirable snags are insufficient to meet these numbers, use snags down to 8 “ dbh. Where a unit falls into two or more VRUs, use the VRU that makes up the majority of the stand. 

WB, SP, TMC, SA, 

FMO 

Pr
Chapter 2 D

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 

Objective Task Responsibility 

Restrict activities along Roads 871, 871A and 871C. 

Restrict activities associated with logging and slashing the units off of Roads 871, 871A, and 871C to be consistent with the Road Closure Code 04 (Restricted to 

motorized vehicles Oct. 15 – June 30th). While logging and conducting fuels 

treatment activities, complete one unit before moving to the next to reduce potential of wildlife disturbance in high use areas. 

WB, SA, SP, FMO 

h

Retain reserve trees suitable for cavity nesters 

Maintain existing live culls (trees with heart rot indicators throughout tree) or trees with dead tops, where safety allows. SB, SP, TMC 

Provide for future cavitynesting habitat, down woody habitat recruitment, and structural diversity. 

In seedtree and shelterwood units, 20 reserve trees per acre will be retained where available. The largest and most windfirm reserve trees will be selected when available. For seedtree harvest units greater than 25 acres in size, reserve trees will be retained at variable densities throughout the unit. Total reserve trees retained will average 20 reserve trees per acre for the entire unit. 

WB, TMC, SP 

Provide habitat for snagdependent species 

If snag levels drop below one snag per acre, introduce heart-rot pathogens into live green reserve trees in proposed regeneration harvest units to maintain a minimum of one snag per acre after post sale activities are completed where funding is available. 

WB, SILV 

Provide feeding habitat for birds 

To provide small dead trees for feeding habitat within regeneration harvest units, leave 15-25 trees per acre with diameters of four inches or greater where available following timber harvest. Trees to be left may be left in clumps (where available) or otherwise distributed throughout the unit. These trees may be killed during site preparation or hazard reduction. Where an adequate fuel bed does not exist, the sub-merchantable trees may be felled. 

SP, SA, WB, FMO 

Provide hiding and denning habitat 

Where hand or machine piling is required, leave at least one small unburned pile per three acres. Landing piles are excluded and no piles will be left near roads. WB, SA, FMO 

To provide a walk in hunting experience without motorized use. 

Schedule logging and site prep and fuels treatments to occur outside of the walk in hunting timeframe (Oct. 15 – Nov. 30th) SP, SA, WB, FMO 

Provide large woody material for wildlife

To provide feeding, nesting, and cavity habitat, leave existing large down woody material. Leave all large un-merchantable logs/acre (> 14" diameter. and 20' length) when available. Sale administrator will work with logger to minimize disturbance to large woody material through skid trail design and encourage avoidance when possible. Fuels AFMO will work with contractor to leave all existing large down woody material on site and out of the piles. 

SA, WB, FAFMO 

Meet ESA requirements 

If critical habitat is identified during implementation of the proposed activities, special protection measures will be implemented by including provision CT6.251 

in all applicable timber sale contract packages. This provision is mandatory. 

SP, SA, WB, TP C

a
Chapter 2 

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 

 

Objective Task Responsibility 

Maintain Old Growth Characteristics within Old Growth Character Stands (Green et al., 1992; USDA Forest Service, 1987a) 

Retain old-growth attributes including a minimum of 15 trees per acre that are at least 19 inches DBH and maintain an average basal area above 140 square feet in Unit 37. In addition to maintaining structural characteristics in these stands, 

cavity habitat will be retained by maintaining, where feasible, existing snags with an emphasis on hard snags over 10 inches DBH; protecting snag centers by not harvesting trees around them and using mechanized equipment. To retain large down wood (21 inch+ DBH), the TSA will approve skid trails. To retain pathogens and disease, the marking crew will mark for retention a representation of dead and fork topped trees, pini, and mistletoe-infected trees. 

WB, SILV, SP 

P

Enact timing restriction on recreation improvements 

Conduct the recreational improvements at the Bear Paw dispersed site after Aug. 15th to reduce potential of wildlife disturbance near high use areas. RF,WB P

Provide for wildlife security and protect other resource values 

Restrict traffic yearlong, including snow vehicles on Roads 851A, 851B, 15824, 3771A, 14247, 15173 and the last portion of 3606 for wildlife security in MA 11and deer sub-herd winter range. The closure device for these roads will be an earthen barrier. Restrict Roads 3770, 3770A, 3771 and 3783 seasonally to all motorized vehicles including snow vehicles, from 12/1 to 4/30 to reduce disturbance to wildlife during the winter season. Gates will be installed at the beginning of Roads 3770 and 3783 to implement these restrictions. 

WB, ENG, DRC 

Maintain snags in Old Growth Habitat 

Restrict traffic yearlong on local Roads 865D, 3731, and a portion of Road 3772. Post and maintain signs on snags along collector roads that cross though MA 13 old growth habitat. 

DR, WB, DRC 

RHCA Protection 

Riparian Habitat Conservation Areas (RHCAs) will be established for streams, lakes, and wetlands using the KNF Riparian Guidelines as modified by INFS (USDA Forest Service, 1995b). The MT State SMZ Law and Rules are also incorporated in these guidelines. Units 1, 24, 34, and 66 would have RHCA modifications making the buffer width no less than 100 feet from the stream or at 

the topography break (whichever is furthest). No activities would take place within the RHCAs. Unit 17 would have an RHCA modification to allow hand slashing, piling, and burning of the understory. No equipment would be allowed within the buffer and the buffer width would not change. Unit 42 would have a special treatment area (STA) delineated on the southwestern boundary that would exclude equipment but not harvest. The unit would also be winter harvested. 

SP, SA, HYD 

P

Soil Productivity 

Maintain soil productivity through retention of CWD at levels recommended in Graham et al. (1994). Only material greater than 3" would count towards the 

required tons per acre of CWD. 

SA, FMO, HYD 

H
Chapter 2 D

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 

Objective Task Responsibility 

Soil Productivity Where possible, allow for one winter season between harvest and underburning to maximize leaching of nutrients from logging slash into the soil. SA, FMO, HYD Soil Protection Use an excavator for mechanized slash piling and fire line construction to minimize the amount of soil disturbance. SA, FMO, HYD Soil Protection Use an excavator or hand lines to construct all fire lines. SP, SA, FMO Soil Protection 

Ground-based operations would occur during dry, frozen, or snow-covered conditions. Snow-covered conditions consist of two or more feet of snow or 

frozen ground at any soil moisture level except over wetlands. 

HYD, SP, SA 

Soil Protection Utilize existing skid trails and landings in all units where they exist and where feasible; specifically in Units 10, 14, 18, and 61. SP, SA, HYD Water Quantity In Alternative D, harvest of Units 23 and 42 would be deferred until October of 2007 or later to avoid creating peak flow Increases above desired levels. SA, HYD Water Quality 

Soil and Water Conservation Practices, or Best Management Practices (BMPs), would be applied to all proposed harvest activities. A list of BMPs that would be 

applied for this project is contained in the Soil and Water Section of the Project File. Application of BMPs would follow the guidance in the Soil and Water Conservation Practices Handbook (Forest Service Handbook 2509.22) 

SA, ENG, HYD 

Provide for wildlife security and protection of road surfaces 

Determine the time of road restrictions involved with timber sales in the pre-sale roundtable discussion. Implement new road restrictions after timber harvest where applicable and maintain existing restrictions as directed by the Sale Administer. 

SA, WB, TP, SP 

Reduce erosion on system roads and protect road surfaces 

Restrict traffic as necessary on roads during spring breakup to prevent rutting and accelerated erosion. SA, ENG, HYD 
Chapter 2 

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 

 

Objective Task Responsibility 

Control erosion and sedimentation 

Scarify heavily disturbed landings, main skid trails, and temporary spur roads. Use slash mat on skid trails when possible. SP, SA 

P

Dur

P

Control erosion, reduce hydrologic effects of temporary roads 

Decommission temporary roads using drain dips, out-sloping road, scarifying, 

seeding, and recontouring. SA, SP P

Protect Young Tree Plantations within Subunit 

• Mineral blocks and herding would be used to discourage cattle access. 

Mineral blocks would be placed at least 1⁄4 mile away from plantations. 

• Range Administrator would provide permittee with annual updates of 

plantation grazing changes when trees in units reach three feet in average height and no longer need monitoring. 

• Slash placement or fencing could be used if cattle encroachment causes > 

20% damage to seedlings. 

• Harvest units would be monitored three or more times in a 10-year period 

following harvest so any noxious weed populations could be identified and targeted for control. 

• Existing harvest units that need to be monitored for cattle use until the 

average tree height is three feet are: 41-3-44; 41-3-51; 41-3-59; 41-3-60; 

41-3-61; 41-4-46; 35-4-57; 47-1-71; 47-3-55; 47-4-28; 41-3-64; 41-4-48; 

and all new future regeneration harvest units within the project area. 

SILV, RA 

Protect Range improvements in place within the analysis area 

Assure that the nine range improvement structures (Jim and Lime Creek Corrals; Sunday Mountain and Brimstone water developments; the Calvert and Todd pasture fences; the Calvert guardrail; the fences around Brimstone Lake and lower Lime Creek wetland) as identified are protected during and after harvest activity. 

SA, TMC, IF, 

FMO, SP Pre 

Protection of Special Use Structures 

Assure that utility lines, railway lines, and roads under special use are protected during and after harvest activity. 

SA, TMC, IF, 

FMO, SP, RF Pre 

Identify American Indian concerns relating to project activities 

Consult with American Indian tribal representatives and traditionalists of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) and Kootenai Tribe of Idaho who may have concerns about federal actions that may affect religious practices, other traditional cultural uses, as well as cultural resource sites and remains associated with American Indian ancestors. 

ARCH 

Co

du

an
Chapter 2 D

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 

Objective Task Responsibility Du

Ensure recommended mitigation measures are followed 

Monitor any projects with eligible or presumed historic properties during implementation as needed. ARCH 

Pr

Cont

durin

and 

Preserve and protect historic properties 

Historic properties are identified by a cultural resource inventory and are 

determined as either eligible or not eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. Properties that are determined as eligible are then managed to either protect them in-place or to mitigate adverse project impacts. The Montana State Historic Preservation Office must review eligibility and management provisions. 

This process must take place prior to ground-disturbing activity. 

ARCH, SP 

Pr

Cont

and 

h

Preserve and protect historic properties 

Three units require over-snow logging. The following criteria must be met: 

• 24”of snow or frozen ground • overnight temperatures below 25 degrees • logging equipment that minimizes ground disturbance • pre-designation of skid trails • log landings outside of site boundary 

• felling to lead and one-end suspension skidding

SA, ARCH 

Pr

Cont

and 

h

Meet Montana Air Quality Standards 

Wherever National Forest burning activities will occur, the direction contained in 

the Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines will insure compliance with the Smoke Management Plan published by the Montana Air Quality Division and administered by the Montana State Airshed Group (see project file). 

DR, FMO Po

Meet Montana Air Quality Standards 

Maximize spring and early summer underburning due to favorable atmospheric conditions. FMO Po

Meet Montana Air Quality Standards 

Construct machine piles to minimize the incorporation of dirt into the piles. Allow 

piles to cure for a minimum of 30 days to minimize emissions from burning green material. 

FMO/SA Po

Minimize erosion, encourage native plants, and prevent noxious weed infestations 

On closed roads, skid trails, landings, fire lines, and decommissioned roads, use the required seed mixture listed in the timber sale contract. Use all state, blue 

tag, certified weed seed-free mixes when seeding fire lines and erosion control areas. 

NWM, SA Pos
Chapter 2 

Trego EA 

 Alternatives 

 

Objective Task Responsibility 

Control the spread of noxious weeds 

Spray infested roads along haul route and within sale area prior to starting sale activity. Monitor these roads for presence of noxious weeds after completing timber sales. Re-treat if necessary. 

Sale Prep, 

NWM, SA Pr

Control the spread of noxious weeds 

Clean off-road equipment of soil and loose debris (CT6.351#) prior to moving to Sale Area. SA, NWM Pr

Control the spread of noxious weeds 

Locate/design skid and decking and landing sites in areas not infested with noxious 

weeds (where possible). Spray known infested sites prior to ground-disturbing activity. 

SA, NWM Pr

Control the spread of noxious weeds When using gravel from borrow pits, adhere to MOU with Lincoln County. ENG, NWM Pr Access Management 

Roads 871C will adhere to operational BMPs during harvest and then be decommissioned after use. The road obliteration work will be part of the timber sale requirements. 

SA P

Access Management 

Roads 14257 and a portion of 3784 will adhere to operational BMPs during harvest and then be decommissioned after use. The road obliteration work will be a part of the timber sale requirements. 

SA P

Access Management 

A portion of Road 3722 is proposed for intermittent stored service. Although minimal work is needed to restore hydrologic function, the District Hydrologist and Engineer will prepare a list of work items needed to meet hydrological concerns on this road. An earthen barrier is to be installed on the south side of the stream crossing just past the junction of Road 3722A. 

SA, HYD, ENG A

Im

Access Management Earthen barriers will be installed for new yearlong road restrictions. Gates are already in place on Roads 865D and Road 3731. SA, ENG, DRC PrePreserve Sensitive Plant Populations and their habitats 

Protect sensitive plant populations, if found. Modifications to the resource enhancement project and/or timber sale, if necessary, will occur during the preparation stage in the field. Special Treatment zones will be created or unit boundaries will be relocated to avoid negative impacts. Avoid disturbance of sensitive plant populations observed during sale activity through cooperation between sale administrators and loggers. Any sensitive plant species observed during sale activity will be given protective measures as afforded by standard contract clause CT6.251. 

SA, WB, 

Botanist, FMO 

Im

Preserve Sensitive Plant Populations and their habitats 

Bedrock meadows, rock outcrops and seepages included or adjacent to treatment areas will be reviewed on a site-by-site basis before any actions proceed on the ground. 

SA, WB, 

Botanist, FMO 

Im
^

^ ^^ ^

^

^

^

^

^

8

5

7

6

4

2

4

3

1

T34N

T35N

T35N

T36N

R26W R25W

Resource Enhancement

Projects

3732

3781

3780

3780

865

3732

36

36

36

3780

865

3730

3732

36

36

865

3730

865

36

3732

3702

2

8 9 7

5 6 4

1

3

36

25

13

23

20

24

30

26

17

12

32 31

19

18 16

31

29

14

33

30

22

29

3

35

10

27

36

21

19

1

32

11

15

25 28

20

28

11

21

34

34

15

2

4

15

15

11

25

Trego Analysis Area

LEGEND

^ Enhancement Projects

Existing Road / Trail

New Trail Construction

Existing Roads

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Railroad

Lakes/Wetlands

Streams

40 ft Contours

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands

4

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

Fortine

Creek

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

Trego "

Map 2-1
LEGEND

Proposed Vegetation Management

Intermediate Harvest

Regeneration Harvest

Uneven Aged Mgmt

Fuels Treatment with Manipulation

Ecosystem Burning

BMPs to be Performed under Timber Sale Contracts

Roads to be Decommissioned after Harvest with Timber Sale Funds

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Existing Roads

Railroad

Streams

Lakes/Wetlands

40 ft Contours

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands

Timber Harvest & Fuel Reduction

Alternative B (Proposed Action)

3730C

E

871A

871

865E

871C

871B

3782A

3782

3784

E

3787 3783

3770

3780

3718

15815 3718A

3718A

E

3780

3727

3771

15173

3770A

3770

3770

3770

3770E

3770F

3732D

3732F

3732

3730

3731A

3730

3605

3762

3762A

3762

3762D

3730

3762B

15812D

14257

3606

3606

E

E

E

E

E

E 3780

3780

865

3732

36

36

36

3780

865

3730

3732

36

36

865

3730

865

36

3732

6

4

1

41

29

16

21

47

40

9

18

35

11

43

28

12

45

13

44

54

3

2

42

23

20

32

14

8

39

37

34

38

10

25

22

50

48

51

53

19

30

26

52

15

49

36

17

24

31

2

8 9

7

5

6

4

1

3

36

25

13

23

20

24

30

26

17

12

32 31

19

18

16

31

29

14

33

30

22

29

3

35

10

27

36

21

19

1

32

11

15

25 28

20

28

11

21

34

15

2

11

Trego Analysis Area

Fortine

Creek

Trego "

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

Map 2-2
LEGEND

Proposed Vegetation Management

Intermediate Harvest

Regeneration Harvest

Uneven Aged Mgmt

Fuels Treatment with Manipulation

Ecosystem Burning

BMPs to be Performed under Timber Sale Contracts

Roads to be Decommissioned after Harvest with Timber Sale Funds

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Existing Roads

Railroad

Streams

Lakes/Wetlands

40 ft Contours

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands

Timber Harvest & Fuel Reduction

Alternative C

3730C

E

871A

871

865E

871C

871B

3782A

3782

3784

E

3787 3783

3770

3780

3718

15815 3718A

3718A

E

3780

3727

3771

15173

3770A

3770

3770

3770

3770E

3770F

3732D

3732F

3732

3730

3731A

3730

3605

3762

3762A

3762

3762D

3730

3762B

15812D

14257

3606

3606

E

E

E

E

E

E

E

E

E

3780

3780

865

3732

36

36

36

3780

865

3730

3732

36

36

865

3730

865

36

3732

2

8 9

7

5

6

4

1

3

36

25

13

23

20

24

30

26

17

12

32 31

19

18

16

31

29

14

33

30

22

29

3

35

10

27

36

21

19

1

32

11

15

25 28

20

28

11

21

34

15

2

11

29

16

21

40

47

9

18

35

11

28

45

44

54

13

64

42

20

32

14

62

8

39

63

23

34

38

55

22

12

51

66

25

53

50

19

30

26

52

65

36

17

15

10

24

31

Trego Analysis Area

Fortine

Creek

Trego "

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

Map 2-3
LEGEND

Proposed Vegetation Management

Intermediate Harvest

Regeneration Harvest

Uneven Aged Mgmt

Fuels Treatment with Manipulation

Ecosystem Burning

BMPs to be Performed under Timber Sale Contracts

Roads to be Decommissioned after Harvest with Timber Sale Funds

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Existing Roads

Railroad

Streams

Lakes/Wetlands

40 ft Contours

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands

Timber Harvest & Fuel Reduction

Alternative D

3730C

E

871A

871

865E

871C

871B

3782A

3782

3784

E

3787 3783

3770

3780

3718

15815 3718A

3718A

E

3780

3727

3771

15173

3770A

3770

3770

3770

3770E

3770F

3732D 3732F

3732

3730

3731A

3730

3605

3762

3762A

3762

3762D

3730

3762B

15812D

14257

3606

3606

E

E

E

E

E

E

865F

3780

3780

865

3732

36

36

36

3780

865

3730

3732

36

36

865

3730

865

36

3732

2

8 9

7

5

6

4

1

3

36

25

13

23

20

24

30

26

17

12

32 31

19

18

16

31

29

14

33

30

22

29

3

35

10

27

36

21

19

1

32

11

15

25 28

20

28

11

21

34

15

2

11

6

4

1

41

29

16

21

47

40

60

61

9

56

18

35

11

43

28

12

45

32

13

38

44

54

3

2

42

57

20

14

8

39

37

23

34

10

25

22

50

48

59

51

53

19

30

26

52

15

49

36

17

24

31

Trego Analysis Area

Fortine

Creek

Trego "

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

Map 2-4
Proposed Road Management

Alternative B

3730C

871C 871D

865G

14265

15824

851B

851A

3781B

3781

3781G

3781F

3781D

3781H

3781A 865D

3780B

3727A

14252

14252

3780A

3784

3784A

3787B 3783

3770

15173

15173A

3771

3770A

3771A

3770C

3770B

3770

14253

3770G

3770

3772

3772A

3772A

14251

14259

14246

3702

3731

3722

3722B

3730F

3605B

3606

14257

14247

14263

3780C

3780D

3762

3762A

3780

3780

865

3732

36

36

36

3780

865

3730

3732

36

36

865

3730

865

36

3732

2

8 9 7

5 6

4

1

3

36

25

13

23

20

24

30

26

17

12

32 31

19

18 16

31

29

14

33

30

22

29

3

35

10

27

36

21

19

1

32

11

15

25 28

20

28

11

21

34

34

15

2

4

15

15

11

25

Trego Analysis Area

Fortine

Creek

Trego "

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

LEGEND

Utilize Road as Part of Trail

Build New Non-Motorized Trail Segment

Convert Unclassified Road to NFSR and Restrict Yearlong

Proposed Road Decommissioning (Roads Not Needed)

Proposed Yearlong Restriction

Proposed Intermittent Stored Service

Proposed Seasonal Restriction - December 1 - April 30 (Winter Range)

Existing Roads

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Railroad

Streams

Lakes/Wetlands

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands 40 ft Contours

Convert Unclassified Road to a Non-Motorized Trail,

Open to Snowmobiles December 1 - April 30

Map 2-5

Re-open Road 3762 and Pursue Formal Easements
Proposed Road Management

Alternative C

3730C

871C 871D

865G

14265

15824

851B

851A

3781B

3781

3781G

3781F

3781D

3781H

3781A 865D

3780B

3727A

14252

14252

3780A

3784

3784A

3787B 3783

3770

15173

15173A

3771

3770A

3771A

3770C

3770B

3770

14253

3770G

3770

3772

3772A

3772A

14251

14259

14246

3702

3731

3722

3722B

3730F

3605B

3606

14257

14247

14263

3780C

3780D

3762

3762A

3780

3780

865

3732

36

36

36

3780

865

3730

3732

36

36

865

3730

865

36

3732

2

8 9 7

5 6

4

1

3

36

25

13

23

20

24

30

26

17

12

32 31

19

18 16

31

29

14

33

30

22

29

3

35

10

27

36

21

19

1

32

11

15

25 28

20

28

11

21

34

34

15

2

4

15

15

11

25

Trego Analysis Area

Fortine

Creek

Trego "

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

LEGEND

Utilize Road as Part of Trail

Build New Non-Motorized Trail Segment

Convert Unclassified Road to NFSR and Restrict Yearlong

Proposed Road Decommissioning (Roads Not Needed)

Proposed Yearlong Restriction

Proposed Intermittent Stored Service

Proposed Seasonal Restriction - December 1 - April 30 (Winter Range)

Existing Roads

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Railroad

Streams

Lakes/Wetlands

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands 40 ft Contours

Convert Unclassified Road to a Non-Motorized Trail

Map 2-6

Re-open Road 3762 and Pursue Formal Easements
Proposed Road Management

Alternative D

3730C

871C 871D

865G

14265

15824

851B

851A

3781B

3781

3781G

3781F

3781D

3781H

3781A 865D

3780B

3727A

14252

14252

3780A

3784

3784A

3787B 3783

3770

15173

15173A

3771

3770A

3771A

3770C

3770B

3770

14253

3770G

3770

3772

3772A

3772A

14251

14259

14246

3702

3731

3722

3722B

3730F

3605B

3606

14257

14247

14263

3780C

3780D

3762

3762A

3780

3780

865

3732

36

36

36

3780

865

3730

3732

36

36

865

3730

865

36

3732

2

8 9 7

5 6

4

1

3

36

25

13

23

20

24

30

26

17

12

32 31

19

18 16

31

29

14

33

30

22

29

3

35

10

27

36

21

19

1

32

11

15

25 28

20

28

11

21

34

34

15

2

4

15

15

11

25

Trego Analysis Area

Fortine

Creek

Trego "

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

LEGEND Utilize Road as Part of Trail

Build New Non-Motorized Trail Segment

Convert Unclassified Road to NFSR and Restrict Yearlong

Proposed Road Decommissioning (Roads Not Needed)

Proposed Yearlong Restriction

Proposed Intermittent Stored Service

Proposed Seasonal Restriction - December 1 - April 30 (Winter Range)

Existing Roads

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Railroad

Streams

Lakes/Wetlands

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands 40 ft Contours

Convert Unclassified Road to a Trail,

Open to Snowmobiles, ATVs, and Motorcycles

Build New Segment to Complete Motorized Trail Loop

Map 2-7

Re-open Road 3762 and Pursue Formal Easements
Affected Environment 

& Environmental 

Consequences 

Chapter 3 
Affected Environment and Environmental 

Consequences

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-1

CHAPTER THREE 

Affected Environment and 

Environmental Consequences 

INTRODUCTION 

Chapter 3 describes the environment (including its human elements) in and around the analysis area 

and discusses the environmental consequences by resource that may result from implementation of 

each of the alternatives. Chapter 3 also provides the scientific and analytic basis for the comparison 

of alternatives presented in Chapter 2. Only those descriptions necessary to understand the effects 

of the alternatives on resources are provided (40 CFR 1502.15). Supporting data and analysis are 

located in the resource sections of the project file. 

The discussion of environmental consequences forms the basis for comparing the alternatives under 

consideration. Environmental consequences are discussed in terms of the direct, indirect, and 

cumulative effects (40 CFR 1502.16). Direct effects are caused by the proposed activities and 

occur the same time and place (40 CFR 1508.8). Indirect effects are caused by proposed activities 

and occur later in time or are further removed in distance, but are still reasonably foreseeable (40 

CFR 1508.8). Cumulative effects result from incremental impacts of proposed activities when added 

to other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable actions regardless of what agency or person 

undertakes such other actions (40 CFR 1508.7 and 8). Some resource conditions consider a larger 

area if predicted effects extend beyond the analysis area. 

This chapter also provides the necessary information to determine whether or not to prepare an 

Environmental Impact Statement. The associated Finding of No Significant Impact discusses 

whether this project has significant effects. 

RELATIONSHIP TO THE FOREST PLAN 

The Kootenai National Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service, 1987a and b) and its accompanying 

Environmental Impact Statement and Record of Decision (USDA Forest Service, 1987c) specify the 

overall direction by which the resources of the Forest are managed. The Forest Plan consists of 

forest-wide and area-specific goals, standards, and guidelines, which provide for land uses with 

anticipated resource outputs. Forest-wide goals and objectives pertinent to the Proposed Action 

were discussed in the Purpose and Need for Action in Chapter 1. A description of area-specific 

goals, standards, and guidelines follow. 

The Trego EA is tiered to, and incorporates, the Forest Plan in its entirety as encouraged by 40 CFR 

1502.20. This EA is not a general management plan for the analysis area nor is it a programmatic 

document. It is a site-specific link between the Forest Plan and the requirements established by 

NEPA, which involves the analysis and implementation of management practices designed to 

achieve the goals and objectives specified in the Forest Plan. This EA will discuss the Proposed 

Action and its alternatives in a site-specific manner as required by NEPA. 

FOREST PLAN MANAGEMENT AREA DIRECTION 

The Forest Plan divided the KNF into management areas (MA), each of which has its own goals, 

standards, and schedule of management practices (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, pp. III-1-126). 
Chapter 3

Trego EA 

3-2 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences

The analysis area contains MAs 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 21, and 24. 

Special Interest Areas: Three areas of special interest (MA 21) have been designated within the 

analysis area. They are described as: 

Magnesia Fen – This is a 12-acre fen along Magnesia Creek that has a large population of 

round-leaved orchis and yellow lady’s slipper. This also contains other rare plants such as the 

Carex prairea – prairie sedge.

Lower Brimstone Creek– This 39-acre spruce swamp located in the lower Brimstone Creek 

area is a major site for many rare plants. These plants include large populations of yellow lady’s 

slipper, round leaved orchis, and a small population of sparrow’s egg lady’s slipper

Fortine Creek Meadows – This is a 5-acre area of marsh meadows, birch carrs, and riparian 

spruce woodlands. This area has been recognized for its unique plant communities, near 

pristine condition, and occurrence of a rare grass, prairie wedgegrass. 

Table 3-1 displays the MAs, their management emphasis, and the number of acres and percentages 

in the analysis area. 

Table 3-1. Management Area Summary 

MA Management Emphasis Acres % of Area 

11 

Big Game Winter Range 

Description: Generally located at lower elevations in most major 

drainages and the topography ranges from steep to moderate and 

rolling topography. 

Goals: Maintain or enhance the winter range habitat effectiveness 

for big game species while also producing a programmed yield of 

timber, and maintaining the viewing resource in areas of high visual 

significance.

2022 9 

12 

Big Game Summer Range 

Description: Occurs mostly above 4,000 feet on moderate terrain; 

used by most species of big game from late spring through late fall. 

Goals: Maintain or enhance habitat effectiveness for non-winter 

big game habitat and produce a programmed yield of timber. 

3 - 

13 

Designated Old Growth Timber 

Description: Existing old growth or mature timber stands which 

 contain components of old growth. 

Goals: Provide the specialized habitat necessary for old growth 

dependent wildlife on a minimum of 10% of each major drainage 

on the Forest. 

1941 9 

15 

Timber Production 

Description: Generally located at medium elevations on moderate 

topography and characterized by its ability to produce timber 

volumes suitable for harvest using conventional methods. 

Goals: Focus on timber production using standard silvicultural 

practices while providing for other resource values. 

10094 46 

16 

Timber with Viewing 

Description: Productive forest land which has moderate viewing 

sensitivity. 

Goals: Produce timber while providing for a pleasing view. 

Wildlife habitat will be managed to provide for viable populations of 

existing native species. 

499 2 
Affected Environment and Environmental 

Consequences

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-3

Table 3-1. Management Area Summary (cont’d) 

MA Management Emphasis Acres % of Area 

21 

Special Interest Areas 

Description: Areas of special interest including unique, unusual, 

or important flora, fauna, geological, recreational, cultural, or 

historical attributes which are of public interest and require 

protection or special management. 

Goals: 1) Preserve a wide spectrum of pristine representative 

areas that typify important forest, shrubland, grassland, alpine, 

aquatic, geological, and similar natural situations for research, 

study, observation, monitoring, and those educational activities that 

maintain unmodified conditions; 2) Preserve and maintain genetic 

diversity; 3) Protect against serious environmental disruption; 4) 

Serve as reference areas for the study of succession; 5) Provide 

onsite and extension educational activities; 6) Serve as baseline 

areas for measuring long-term ecological changes; 7) Serve as 

control areas for manipulative research; 8) Monitor effects of 

resource management techniques and practices. 

56 - 

24 

Low Productivity Areas 

Description: This MA has relatively little productive capacity for 

many of the surface resources on the Forest. It is moderate to 

steep, with rocky thin soils. 

Goals: It is to be managed for site protection, primarily for wildlife 

resources that may occur. Timber harvest is permissible on a 

case-by-case basis. 

161 1 

State 1755 8 

Private 5509 25 

Refer To Map 3-1 at the end of Chapter 3 for a display of MAs in the analysis area. 
Chapter 3

Trego EA 

3-4 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

SOIL RESOURCES 

This document outlines the processes and results of analysis for soils resources in the Trego 

Analysis Area. This paper is designed to guide the reader through the analysis used to determine 

historical and existing conditions of the analysis area. 

Analysis Area 

For the analysis of reference and existing condition, soils will be described for the entire analysis 

area because no activity areas, as described below, are identified during this stage. 

The direct and indirect effects of the Alternatives will focus on individual activity areas as defined by 

the Forest Service Manual (R-1 Supplement No. 2500-99-1): 

“Activity Area: A land area impacted by a management activity to which soil quality 

standards area applied. Activity areas include harvest units within timber sale areas, 

prescribed burn areas, and grazing areas or pastures within range allotments. 

Inclusion of system roads within the activity area is dependent on analysis objectives. 

System roads are often evaluated separately; however, temporary roads, landings, 

and skid trails are included within an activity area. Riparian and other environmentally 

sensitive areas may be monitored and evaluated as individual activity areas within 

larger management areas.” 

For analysis of direct and indirect effects, activity areas are the proposed harvest, fuels treatment, 

and ecosystem burning units. Temporary roads, skid trails, landings, and firelines are included in the 

delineation of activity areas. 

Affected Environment 

Existing condition is the result of past management activities and natural events that occurred in the 

analysis area. These activities and events provide baseline conditions for the affected environment in 

the analysis area. 

The Trego Analysis Area is an erosional landscape that has been strongly influenced by continental 

glaciation. The topography is rounded and subdued, and the aspect is generally northerly. Elevations 

range from 3,400 feet at the confluence of Swamp and Fortine Creeks in the north to 6,590 feet at 

the top of Elk Mountain in the south. 

The underlying bedrock is Precambrian-aged, metamorphosed sediments of the Belt Supergroup. As 

a result of glacial scouring, the ridgetops are rounded with exposed bedrock or shallow soils, and the 

sideslopes and valley bottoms contain deep deposits of gravelly glacial till. 

Soils in the Trego Analysis Area are derived from glacial and glacio-fluvial deposits and residual 

materials (material that was not moved during glaciation). General descriptions of these types of 

soils are as follows: 

• Continental glacial till derived soils are light gray and contain abundant fines (fine sands 

and silts) and 30 to 50 percent subrounded rock. These soils are generally three to ten 

feet deep. 

• Glacio-fluvial derived soils range from silts to gravels, although many of the materials are 

lacustrine silts. Water-influenced deposits exist in and adjacent to the stream bottoms 

and are generally three to ten feet deep. 

• Residual soils are found on ridge tops and scoured slopes and contain 50 to 75 percent 

angular rock. A volcanic ash-influenced deposit is scattered over the area. It is reddish-
Soil Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-5 

brown and contains 15 to 30 percent rock. Soils are generally shallow to moderately 

shallow (less than three feet deep). 

Measurement Indicators 

To assess existing condition within the analysis area for the Soils Resource, three indicators were 

used: 1) KNF Landtypes, 2) sensitive soils, and 3) existing detrimental disturbance.

1. Kootenai National Forest Landtypes 

Kootenai National Forest Landtypes are based on landforms, geology, soils, vegetation, climate, and 

drainage type. They describe inherent conditions and do not change as a result of management. The 

landtypes were compiled in Kuennen and Nielsen-Gerhardt 1984, and published in the Soil Survey of 

Kootenai National Forest Area, Montana and Idaho (USDA 1995b). Landtype classification aids in 

making management interpretations. It is used to help determine suitability, equipment operating 

limitations, and the production potential of the landscape. It is an important tool for protecting soils 

during resource management activities. Each landtype is characterized for five different road 

construction and maintenance activities, four timber management considerations, and three soil 

erosion and sediment delivery factors. 

The landtype map is generally quite accurate; however, field verification may indicate some site 

variability. Specific design criteria appropriate for each activity on each unit in the selected alternative 

will be determined. 

There are 50 recognized landtypes on the Kootenai National Forest. Twelve of these are found in the 

Trego Analysis Area. The landtype series are described below. For a detailed description of each 

landtype, see USDA, 1995a. 

Water Influenced Landtypes (100 Series) 

The 100 series landtypes in this analysis area are located along Fortine Creek. The soils are 

composed of floodplain deposits in gently undulating lacustrine terraces at low elevations. 

Soils that comprise the water influenced series are formed through the deposition of sediment 

in point bar deposits and in the flood-prone area adjacent to the stream channels. During high 

flow events, deposition by overbank flows adds to the floodplain level. During periods of 

active aggradation, overland deposition is a primary process of floodplain construction. Over 

time, the larger streams in the analysis area have adjusted to accommodate changes in 

sediment deposition. What previously was the active stream channel today may be an 

abandoned terrace or ancient floodplain. Thus, soil along the margin of Fortine Creek is 

largely composed of floodplain material deposited since the formation of the Fortine Creek 

drainage, approximately 10,000 years before present. Six landtypes in this series are found in 

the analysis area: 101, 102, 103, 105, 108, and 110. 

Glaciated Landtypes (300 Series) 

The landtypes and soils distributed throughout the uplands of the Trego Analysis Area were 

deposited and shaped by several glacial advances that occurred throughout the Kootenai. 

The most recent, the Cordilleran Ice Sheet, retreated from the area several thousand years 

before present. These landtypes include glaciated slopes, drumlins, and moraines. Six 

landtypes in this series are found in the analysis area: 322, 323, 324, 325, 329, and 360. 

2. Sensitive Soils 

Sensitive Soils are identified based on one or more of the following characteristics: sensitive 

landtypes, riparian/wetland areas; and low productivity soils. Each of the sensitive soil categories are 

described below. 
Chapter 3

Trego EA 

3-6 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

A. Sensitive landtypes: There are five Kootenai National Forest Landtypes that are considered 

‘sensitive’ (325, 351, 365, 370, and 381). The only one that occurs within the analysis area is 

325. Landtype 325 occurs on floodplains and alluvial fans underlain by calcareous glacial till. It 

consists of calcareous, crumbly glacial till typically in floodplains. The major concern with this 

landtype is from road construction at stream crossings due to high sediment delivery efficiency. 

Where roads occur in this landtype without adequate drainage dispersal and sediment control, 

there is an increased risk of calcareous sediments filling spawning gravels. These soils tend to 

be wet. The associated streams frequently change course and are sensitive to disturbance. 

There are 2,344 acres of this landtype in the analysis area, located in the Lower Jim Creek, 

Stewart Creek, Magnesia Creek, Upper and Lower Lime Creek, and Upper Brimstone drainages. 

The majority of this area falls within the RHCAs described below. 

B. Riparian and wetland areas: There are approximately 2,900 acres of Riparian Habitat 

Conservation Areas (RHCAs) delineated around riparian and wetland areas in the analysis area. 

These RHCAs are delineated following the guidelines in the Inland Native Fish Strategy (USDA 

Forest Service 1995a). Riparian and wetland soils are considered sensitive because their 

moisture levels are high all or most of the year, and moist soils are more prone to compaction, 

displacement, rutting, and puddling. 

Riparian areas are transition zones between permanently saturated wetlands and drier upland 

areas. These areas exhibit vegetation or physical characteristics reflective of permanent surface 

or subsurface water influence (USDI Bureau of Land Management, 1993). Natural, undisturbed, 

or well-managed riparian areas provide values and benefits far in excess of the small percentage 

of land they occupy (Brooks et al. 1997). Riparian areas maintain the integrity of aquatic 

ecosystems by: 1) influencing the delivery of sediment, organic matter, and large woody debris 

to streams; 2) providing root strength for channel stability; 3) shading the stream; and 4) 

protecting water quality (USDA Forest Service, 1995b). Where disturbance occurs in riparian 

areas, there is an increased risk of erosion and reduced productivity, thereby reducing the 

buffering affect that the riparian area has on streams and the protection of beneficial uses. 

Wetlands are defined by the water table being near the ground surface or where the land is at 

least seasonally covered by shallow water. There are 78 acres of wetlands in the analysis area 

consisting of marshes, lake shores, sloughs, bogs, fens, and wet meadows. 

C. Low productivity soils: Soil productivity, as defined by Brady and Weil (2002), is “the 

capacity of a soil for producing a specific plant or sequence of plants under a specified system of 

management.” It is important to look at soil productivity to properly assess the effects of potential 

actions on a specific area. For instance, if timber harvest is proposed on a given area of land 

that was considered as having low soil productivity, additional actions may need to be taken to 

insure a fully stocked stand after harvest. Soil productivity levels for each landtype are classified 

as low, moderate, or high in USDA, 1995a. There are 79 acres of soils in the Upper Brimstone 

drainage (Landtype 360) characterized as having very low productivity. See Table 3-2 for 

characterization of soil productivity in the analysis area by landtype. 

Table 3-2. Soil Productivity Associated with Landtypes in the Trego Analysis Area 

(USDA, 1995a)

Landtype Acres Relative Productivity 

101 214 High 

102 483 High 

103 112 High 

105 115 NA1

108 359 High 

110 2 High 

322 244 High 

323 11,328 Moderate 

324 560 Moderate 

325 2,344 High 
Soil Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-7 

329 6,198 High 

360 79 Low 1

 Productivity was not reported because this landtype typically has a high water table and does not have a 

forested component. 

3. Detrimental Soil Disturbance 

For this section, detrimental soil disturbance is explained in general terms for the analysis area. Sitespecific conditions are qualitatively or quantitatively considered for each individual activity area in the 

Environmental Consequences portion of this assessment. Past activities in the analysis area have 

resulted in impacts that persist today and will also be characterized and quantified in the 

Environmental Consequences section. Past activities affecting soils include road construction, timber 

harvest (including skid trails and landings), cattle grazing, firewood gathering, and off-road vehicle 

use. 

Percent detrimental soil disturbance (as specified by agency directives for Soil Quality Monitoring 

found in the FSM R-1 Supplement No. 2500-99-1 will be the measurement indicator for this analysis. 

The following are the categories of detrimentally disturbed soils identified in FSM R-1 Supplement 

No. 2500-99-1. 

a. Compaction – A physical change in soil properties from compression, vibration, or shearing 

that increases soil bulk density and decrease porosity, air exchange, root penetration, 

infiltration, and permeability. A bulk density increase of 15% or more is considered 

detrimental. 

b. Rutting – Deformation of the soil under saturated conditions resulting in detrimental 

changes to soil structure and reduced porosity. Wheel ruts of at least two inches are 

considered detrimental. 

c. Displacement – The removal and horizontal movement of soil from one place to another, 

usually by mechanical forces such as dozer blades, repeated vehicular traffic, or yarding of 

logs. Removal of one or more inches of any surface horizon from a continuous area greater 

than 100 square feet is considered detrimental. 

d. Surface Erosion – The detachment and transport of individual soil particles by wind, water, 

or gravity. Rills, gullies, and pedestals are all indicators of detrimental surface erosion. 

Minimum amounts of ground cover necessary to keep soil loss to within tolerable limits 

(generally less than 1 to 2 tons per acre) should be established locally depending on site 

characteristics. 

e. Severely Burned Soil – Physical and biological changes to soil resulting from high-intensity 

burns of long duration are detrimental. This standard is used when evaluating prescribed 

fire. Guidelines for assessing burn intensity are contained in the Burned Area Emergency 

Rehabilitation (BAER) Guide (FSH 2509.13). 

f. Mass Movement – The detachment and down-slope movement of soil or the surface mantle 

in the form of debris slides, avalanches, or deep-seated rotational failures or slumps. Any 

mass movement caused by management activities is considered detrimental. 

The three activities that have had the most impact on soils in the analysis area have been livestock 

grazing, road construction, and timber harvest activities. 

Livestock Grazing

Compaction and stream bank trampling/shearing are among the most common soil disturbances 

resulting from grazing (Thurow, 1991; Kauffman et al, 1983). Livestock grazing impacts generally 

occur in localized areas where cattle tend to congregate season after season – areas offering good 

forage, which in this area consists of riparian zones (water sources), harvest units, road corridors, 

and salt meadows. Even in these areas, compaction is discontinuous and localized. Stream bank 
Chapter 3

Trego EA 

3-8 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

trampling/shearing occurs when cattle cross a stream and collapse the bank. This can lead to an 

increase in bank scour during high flows. The entire analysis area is within a cattle allotment. There 

are few concerns with regards to grazing within the analysis area (see Range Specialist Report for 

more details). 

Road Construction

The major impacts of road building on soils are displacement, compaction, and erosion associated 

with road related runoff. Road building has accompanied most other management activities. Road 

construction affects soils by displacing the topsoil layers from the road prism and compacting the 

road surface and shoulders. The surface of the road will not support trees and other forest vegetation 

as long as the road is used and maintained. Trees and shrubs will grow along the road bank, but site 

productivity is less than in unaffected soils. Roads also disrupt hydrologic processes that occur within 

the soil profile. The cut slope intercepts subsurface flow and the compacted road surface reduces 

precipitation infiltration. As long as roads remain on the landscape, the impacts to soils persist. Soils 

on decommissioned roads will gradually recover. Implementation of BMPs reduces erosion 

associated with roads. Refer to the Transportation Project File for more detailed information about 

specific road conditions and roads analysis. There are 163 miles of existing road within the analysis 

area. 

Timber Harvest Activity

Soil disturbance as a result of timber harvest and fuels reduction is usually associated with 

mechanized activity. Two of the more important effects to soils are detrimental soil disturbance and 

the removal of organic matter. Detrimental soil disturbance can be a result of compaction, 

displacement, or rutting. Detrimental soil disturbance and the loss of organic matter can reduce site 

quality and soil productivity. The loss of surface organic matter can cause nutrient and carbon cycle 

deficits and negatively affect physical and biological soil conditions. Soil compaction impacts recover 

over time due to frost heave, burrowing by animals, plant root growth, and the action of soil 

microbes. Erosion of soil is an impact that requires a longer timeframe to recover since the rate of 

soil formation is very slow. Long-term soil processes are influenced by fire, mass wasting, and 

gradual soil formation (at the rate of one inch of topsoil formed every 300-1000 yrs (Thurow, 1991)). 

Timber harvest, both regeneration and intermediate, has taken place on 9075 acres of the analysis 

area. 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS 

The analysis area for soil resources is each individual activity area as described in the analysis area 

discussion earlier. 

Direct and indirect effects on the soils resource are described below for proposed activities identified 

in Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered for all past, proposed, current and reasonably 

foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1 and are described at the end of this section. 

No significant aquatic issues were identified for Soils Resources during the scoping process. 

Therefore, law, regulation, and policy drive the effects analysis. Resource issues and effects will be 

presented in the following categories: 

• Activities on sensitive soils; 

• Detrimental soil disturbance; 

• Prescribed fire and underburning; and

• Organic matter and nutrient cycling.

1. Activities on Sensitive Soils 

Table 3-3 displays the acres of units located on sensitive soils by alternative. 
Soil Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-9 

Table 3-3. Unit Acres on Sensitive Soils 

Sensitive Soils Alt A Alt B Alt C Alt D 

Harvest Unit Acres on Sensitive Landtype 325 0 93 70 109 

Harvest Unit Acres in Riparian Areas / Wetlands 0 0 0 0 

Regeneration Unit Acres on Low Productivity Soils 0 0 0 0 

Total Acres on Sensitive Soils 0 93 70 109 

Total Acres of Proposed Activities 0 2364 1697 2717 

% of Proposed Activities on Sensitive Soils 0 % 4 % 4 % 4 % 

% of The Planning Subunit 0 % < 1 % < 1 % < 1 % 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES ON SENSITIVE SOILS 

The only sensitive landtype that occurs within the analysis area is 325. The major concern with this 

landtype is from road construction at stream crossings due to high sediment delivery efficiency. No 

new road construction or temporary road construction would take place on Landtype 325. However, 

there is proposed harvest identified on sensitive landtype 325 under all action alternatives based on 

GIS mapping. Landtype 325 typically contains alluvial fans and floodplains formed in lime deposits 

and glacial till. Landtype mapping was done at a very coarse scale. RHCAs will protect all floodplains 

and alluvial fans even if that means extending them further than the default values. On the ground, 

all riparian area and wetland features will be protected with this project and therefore no harvest will 

take place on the actual area that is landtype 325. Riparian and wetland areas are protected under 

INFS Riparian Habitat Conservation Areas (RHCAs) (USDA Forest Service, 1995b); no harvest 

treatments would occur on those soils under any alternative. Some RHCA widths have been 

modified from default values, but none would affect the riparian areas or wetlands they protect. Refer 

to the RHCA modification documentation in the Soil and Water Project File and the Riparian and 

Wetlands portion of the Water Section in this document for analysis of the RHCA modifications. 

There is no regeneration harvest proposed on areas mapped as having very low soil productivity 

(Landtype 360). Intermediated harvest is proposed on a maximum of 64 acres, but a fully stocked 

stand would still be on-site, post-harvest providing the nutrients for long-term soil productivity. 

The Resource Enhancement Projects (cattle control and exclosure projects) listed in Chapter 2 were 

identified to protect riparian areas from grazing impacts, including trampling. These projects would 

prevent further impacts and allow impacted soils to slowly recover. 

EFFECTS OF THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE ON SENSITIVE SOILS 

Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no implementation of proposed activities, including 

road improvements and decommissioning, and resource enhancement projects. The road segments 

in RHCAs that may be decommissioned under the action alternatives would remain on the landscape 

as roads, and the affected soils would not recover under this alternative. Resource Enhancement 

Projects designed to protect riparian areas would not be implemented, and these areas would 

continue to be affected by grazing pressures. 

Routine road maintenance would still occur, but at a slower rate as funds become available. Road 

maintenance activities would follow BMPs and INFS guidelines in order to minimize effects on soil 

resources. 

2. Detrimental Soil Disturbance 

Management activities including road building, off-highway vehicle use, timber harvest (trails and 

landings), mechanical fuels treatment, firewood gathering, and grazing are considered to be potential 

sources of detrimental soil disturbance. Percent of detrimental soil disturbance will be the 

measurement indicator for this analysis. Maps of past harvest activities and road construction can be 

viewed in the Soil and Water Project File. 

Table 3-4 displays existing and cumulative detrimental soil disturbance for each activity area. Only 
Chapter 3

Trego EA 

3-10 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

those activity areas that are expected to have detrimental soil disturbance as a result of this proposal 

are listed. 

The existing detrimental soil disturbance values are derived from field surveys conducted by one or 

more IDT members of all of the units in the proposal (refer to Field Review Summary and Field 

Forms in the Soil and Water Project File). Field Surveys included walk through estimates and full 

transect/sample point methods. Existing detrimental soil disturbance numbers are a result of all 

currently measurable effects of past actions in each activity area, including but not limited to: timber 

harvest (trails and landings), grazing, temporary road construction, off highway vehicles, natural 

disturbances, firewood gathering, etc. 

The cumulative percentage is derived by adding the percentage expected to result from proposed 

activities and reasonably foreseeable activities to the existing percentage. All harvest activities, 

prescribed burning, skid trails, landings, fire lines, excavator piling, and temporary roads are included 

in this analysis. Predicted detrimental disturbance is based on information from “Monitoring 

Averages/Recommendations” (Kuennen, 2003), which is a summary of all Kootenai Forest Soils 

Monitoring to date with recommendations for analysis based on survey results. Please refer to the 

Soil and Water Project File to review this document. Best Management Practices (BMPs) would be 

followed (See Appendix B), and additional Design Criteria have been specified in order to minimize 

disturbance (See Table 2-10). Expected reductions in detrimental soil disturbance that result from 

implementing special Design Criteria are not shown in this table. It is expected that those units listed 

below that are close to the 15% limit would have detrimental soil disturbance levels less the listed 

numbers due to specific design criteria such as “use existing skid trails.” 

Table 3-4. Existing and Cumulative Detrimental Soil Disturbance by Alternative 

1

 Alternative A, the No Action Alternative, does not have activity areas to evaluate existing detrimental soil 

disturbance. Though it is acknowledged that there has been disturbance within the analysis area, the lack of unit 

boundaries (activity areas) in this alternative does not lend itself to this analysis. 

-- This unit is not included in this alternative. 

Unit Alt. A 1

Exist / New / Cum % 

Alt. B 

Exist / New / Cum % 

Alt. C 

Exist / New / Cum % 

Alt. D 

Exist / New / Cum % 

1 -- 1 / 9 / 10 -- 1 / 9 / 10 

2 -- 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 

3 -- 0 / 2 / 2 -- 0 / 2 / 2 

4 -- 1 / 9 / 10 -- 1 / 9 / 10 

6 -- 1 / 9 / 10 -- 1 / 9 / 10 

8 -- 0 / 4 / 4 0 / 4 / 4 0 / 4 / 4 

9 -- 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 

10 -- 6 / 9 / 15 6 / 9 / 15 6 / 9 / 15 

11 -- 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 

12 -- 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 

13 -- 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 

14 -- 4 / 9 / 13 4 / 9 / 13 4 / 9 / 13 

15 -- 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 

18 -- 5 / 9 / 14 5 / 9 / 14 5 / 9 / 14 

20 -- 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 

22 -- 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 

23 -- 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 

24 -- 2 / 4 / 6 2 / 4 / 6 2 / 4 / 6 

25 -- 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 

26 -- 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 

28 -- 2 / 9 / 11 2 / 9 / 11 2 / 9 / 11 

29 -- 2 / 0 / 2 2 / 0 / 2 2 / 0 / 2 

30 -- 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 

31 -- 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 

32 -- 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 

34 -- 2 / 4 / 6 2 / 4 / 6 2 / 4 / 6 

35 -- 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 

36 -- 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 
Soil Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-11 

Unit Alt. A 1

Exist / New / Cum % 

Alt. B 

Exist / New / Cum % 

Alt. C 

Exist / New / Cum % 

Alt. D 

Exist / New / Cum % 

37 -- 0 / 9 / 9 -- 0 / 9 / 9 

38 -- 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 0 / 9 / 9 

42 -- 0 / 4 / 4 0 / 4 / 4 0 / 4 / 4 

47 -- 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 

48 -- 0 / 2 / 2 -- 0 / 2 / 2 

49 -- 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 

50 -- 2 / 9 / 11 2 / 9 / 11 2 / 9 / 11 

51 -- 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 1 / 9 / 10 

52 -- 2 / 9 / 11 2 / 9 / 11 2 / 9 / 11 

53 -- 2 / 9 / 11 2 / 9 / 11 2 / 9 / 11 

54 -- 2 / 9 / 11 2 / 9 / 11 2 / 9 / 11 

56 -- -- -- 0 / 9 / 9 

57 -- -- -- 0 / 9 / 9 

59 -- -- -- 0 / 9 / 9 

60 -- -- -- 2 / 9 / 11 

61 -- -- -- 5 / 9 / 14 

62 -- -- 1 / 9 / 10 -- 

63 -- -- 1 / 9 / 10 -- 

64 -- -- 1 / 9 / 10 -- 

65 -- -- 1 / 9 / 10 -- 

66 -- -- 1 / 9 / 10 -- 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES ON DETRIMENTAL SOIL 

DISTURBANCE 

Each of the action alternatives would increase existing detrimental soil disturbance in the proposed 

harvest activity areas. As Table 3-4 shows, the activity areas are not expected to exceed the 15 

percent detrimental disturbance threshold under any alternative. 

Units 8, 24, 34, and 42 will require winter harvest due to archeological, soil, and water concerns 

(refer to Design Criteria, Table 2-10). This would reduce the predicted amount of detrimental soil 

disturbance in these units from nine to four percent. 

Road decommissioning would allow the detrimentally disturbed soils on the affected roads to 

recover. The 12.5 miles of roads planned for decommissioning would result in soil recovery on 50 

acres under each alternative, if fully implemented. Most of this work would be accomplished using 

appropriated funding as it becomes available. These funding sources and the timing are not assured. 

The Kootenai NF has been committed to road decommissioning, and funding has generally been 

available (refer to document titled “Decommissioning Record on the Fortine and Rexford Ranger 

Districts” in the Soil and Water Project File). The timing for work that requires appropriated funding is 

budget-dependent, but is not tied to the timing of harvest. This work would be accomplished as soon 

as funded after the Decision and would take at least one and possibly several years to complete. 

Some decommissioning would occur in conjunction with timber sales, and funding would be assured 

if the sales occur. Refer to the Water Resources Specialist Report for additional information 

regarding effects of road decommissioning. 

All other Resource Enhancement Projects presented in Chapter 2 would not have measurable 

effects on detrimental soil disturbance. 

EFFECTS OF THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE ON DETRIMENTAL SOIL DISTURBANCE 

The No Action Alternative would not increase detrimental soil disturbance. Existing detrimental 

disturbance would continue to slowly recover. 

Exceptions to this include: roads that are proposed for decommissioning under the action 

alternatives, which would not be decommissioned, and, therefore, would not recover under this 
Chapter 3

Trego EA 

3-12 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

alternative, and; cattle controls proposed as resource enhancements which would not be 

implemented; therefore, the areas identified for protection would continue to be impacted. 

3. Prescribed Burning 

Due to the suppression of wildfires over the last century, fuels have accumulated in many areas 

throughout the analysis area. The intent of prescribed burning is to reduce fuel levels and meet 

vegetation management objectives. High-intensity or long-duration burning has the potential to cause 

soil heating and associated soil impacts such as loss of soil organic matter, impacts to soil 

organisms, and creation of water repellency (hydrophobicity). 

EFFECTS OF ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES DUE TO PRESCRIBED BURNING 

The action alternatives include underburning with and without timber harvest. The burning 

prescriptions in each alternative were designed to provide only the fire intensity needed to achieve 

the vegetation management objectives while minimizing soil heating. The physical structure of the 

soil would not be affected by this level of heating. Typically, burning is scheduled when the moisture 

in the lower duff layers is high enough so that the fire does not consume the lower duff layers, which 

insulate the soil from surface heating (DeBano, 2000). Burn intensity would not reach the levels 

associated with nutrient loss through volatilization. Nutrients in the duff layer would be released and 

made available for uptake by regenerating vegetation, which would increase short-term nutrient 

availability and maintain long-term soil productivity. A small portion of the nutrients released may be 

lost through leaching, but most would remain attached to or between the soil particles on-site. 

Overall, underburning is not expected to detrimentally affect soil productivity in the analysis area. 

This is supported by Forest Soil Productivity Monitoring (refer to the Soil and Water Project File). 

The underburning that is associated with harvest activities would require construction of fireline 

around the unit; this disturbance is included in the cumulative detrimental soil disturbance values 

displayed in Table 3-4. Fuels Treatment with Manipulation would include mechanical piling; this 

disturbance is included in the soil disturbance values in Table 3-4. Underburning units would receive 

no mechanized treatments and no fireline would be constructed; therefore, no detrimental soil 

disturbance would result from these activities were not reflected in Table 3-4. 

EFFECTS OF THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE DUE TO PRESCRIBED BURNING 

The No Action Alternative would not create any direct effects on soils. It would also not reduce fuel 

loading anywhere in the analysis area. As a result, there would be a greater risk of indirect effects 

caused by high intensity wildfire and greater potential for damaging soil heating. The potential effects 

include alteration of soil structure, impacts to soil invertebrates, reduced nitrogen, and loss of soluble 

nutrients (Kuennen, 2000). 

4. Organic Matter and Nutrient Cycling 

The removal of trees from a site can cause temporary nutrient deficits that negatively affect physical 

and biological soil conditions. To avoid this, it is important to maintain both fine and coarse woody 

debris (CWD) at all managed sites. Allowing the accumulation and decomposition of a range of sizes 

of woody debris maintains both short-term and long-term soil productivity. The different 

decomposition rates provide for the slow, continual release of nutrients. CWD is generally 

considered to be those pieces greater than three inches in diameter. CWD in various stages of 

decay serves many important ecological functions, including nutrient cycling, erosion control, 

maintenance of soil productivity, and as wildlife habitat. Each activity area has been assigned a 

VRU-specific retention level for CWD (refer to Design Criteria, Table 2-10). 

EFFECTS OF ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES ON ORGANIC MATTER AND NUTRIENT CYCLING 

The action alternatives all propose to remove vegetation. Soil productivity would be maintained 

through retention of CWD at levels recommended in Graham et al. (1994) and Brown et al. (2003). 
Soil Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-13 

Maintaining CWD at the levels identified in these guidelines would ensure that both short-term and 

long-term soil productivity is maintained. The action alternatives would not adversely impact nutrient 

cycling in any of the activity areas. 

EFFECTS OF THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE ON ORGANIC MATTER AND NURIENT 

CYCLING 

Under the No Action Alternative, there would be no further disturbance to the existing organic matter 

and nutrient cycling processes in any activity area. Nutrient cycling would continue at present rates 

until a natural disturbance occurs. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ALTERNATIVES 

In addition to the analysis of cumulative detrimental soil disturbance resulting from proposed grounddisturbing activities (Table 3-4) and resource enhancement activities presented in Chapter 2, the 

effects of past and current and reasonably foreseeable actions listed in Tables 1-3 and 1-4 were 

considered in the analysis of cumulative effects. The analysis area for consideration of cumulative 

effects consists of the activity areas under each action alternative as directed by Forest Service 

Manual R-1 Supplement No. 2500-99-1. The effects of each activity listed in the two tables are 

discussed in the Cumulative Effects Worksheet in the Soil and Water Project File. Only those 

activities determined to have a potential cumulative effect are presented here. This includes livestock 

grazing and range improvement activities. 

Livestock grazing and range improvement activities are expected to continue in the analysis area 

through the operating period of 10 years. The allotment allows grazing of 50 cow-calf pair from midJune through September across the entire analysis area. Much of the forage in the allotment is 

transitory and occurs along roads and in harvest openings. Therefore, it is likely that livestock use 

would increase in proposed regeneration units, especially those near streams or other sources of 

water. Cattle tend to use existing skid trails and are not expected to increase soil compaction in 

activity areas by more than two percent (Kuennen, 2003). The proposed units with cumulative 

detrimental disturbances equal to 13 percent or greater (as shown in Table 3-4) are either 

intermediate harvest units, not located along main access corridors, or not near water sources. For 

these reasons, they are not expected to draw markedly increased cattle use after harvest. Grazing in 

combination with the effects of prior management and the proposed activities is not expected to 

exceed the threshold of 15 percent for detrimental soil disturbance in any activity area. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

Compliance with the Forest Plan

The Forest Plan states that project plans for activities requiring the use of ground-based equipment 

will establish standards for the area allocated to skid trails, landings, temporary roads, or similar 

areas of concentrated equipment use (USDA Forest Service, 1987a). Forest Service Manual 2500-

99-1 establishes guidelines that limit detrimental soil disturbance to no more than 15 percent of an 

activity area. Forest Plan soil productivity monitoring results were reviewed (USDA Forest 

Service 1998b, USDA Forest Service, 2003b, Monitoring Item F-4). The five-year results from 

1992–1997 found less than one percent of the acres surveyed were above the 15 percent 

threshold, with 77 percent of surveyed areas having less than 10 percent detrimental 

disturbance. From 1998–2002, none of the areas surveyed were above the threshold. 

Kuennen (2003) compiled all monitoring data to date, which was used as the basis for 

specifying Design Criteria for this project. All proposed activities are expected to remain 

below the 15 percent threshold. 

All management activities would follow the BMPs outlined in Appendix B and would be 

consistent with Forest Plan Standards. The 2002 KNF Monitoring Report (USDA Forest 

Service, 2003a) states that monitoring between 1990 and 2002 shows that 94 percent of the 
Chapter 3

Trego EA 

3-14 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

BMPs implemented during that time were effective. 

Compliance with the National Forest Management Act

The National Forest Management Act (NFMA) requires that all lands be managed to ensure 

maintenance of long-term soil productivity, hydrologic function, and ecosystem health. All activities 

proposed are consistent with this direction. Meeting the CWD guidelines contained in Graham et al. 

(1994) would assure long-term soil productivity. All activity areas would remain below 15 percent 

detrimentally disturbed soils, and all applicable BMPs would be implemented. 
 Forest Vegetation 

 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-15 

FOREST VEGETATION 

Introduction 

This section describes the existing vegetation conditions of the Trego Analysis Area and how the 

Proposed Action, No Action and other alternatives would affect the various components of this 

resource. The area directly, indirectly, and cumulatively affected by the Proposed Action and all 

alternatives is defined by the National Forest lands and other ownership within the Trego drainage 

and its tributaries and is displayed on the Vicinity Map, Map 1-1, in Chapter 1. 

Analysis Area

The analysis area encompasses the Trego drainage for a total of approximately 22,000 acres. 

Private land comprises approximately 5500 of these acres. The effects analysis focuses on all the 

proposed activities that may have any measurable effects on vegetation structure, composition, or 

distribution within Management Areas 11, 13, 15, 16, 21 and 24 as described in the Forest Plan. 

The Vegetative Structure, Function, and Composition, Insect and Disease, Threatened and Sensitive 

Plants, and Noxious Weeds components will be discussed at the landscape and stand level to 

facilitate analysis of direct, indirect, and cumulative effects. 

Analysis Methods 

This analysis area coincides with that used for the Trego Ecosystem Assessment at the Watershed 

Scale (USDA Forest Service, 2004a). Information collected for the EAWS as well as existing Forest 

Service databases provided the information used to characterize the affected environment for 

vegetation within the Trego Analysis Area. Ground reconnaissance and the Fortine District’s Timber 

Stand Record Management System (TSMRS) were the primary sources of information used to 

describe existing vegetation conditions. 

REFERENCE CONDITIONS 

A. Vegetation Response Units 

This analysis identifies specific disturbance processes, together with landform and other 

environmental elements, which have influenced the patterns of vegetation across the analysis area. 

Vegetative Response Units (VRUs) (USDA Forest Service, 1999a) are used to define components 

of ecosystems. VRUs are an aggregation of land having similar capabilities and potentials for 

management. Forests in each of these ecological units tend to respond in similar ways to 

disturbance and to grow similar types of vegetation based on similarities in soils, hydrologic function, 

landform and topography, lithology, climate, air quality, and natural processes (nutrient and biomass 

cycling, succession, productivity, and fire regimes). 

Each VRU has a characteristic frequency and type of disturbance based on its climate, soils, 

vegetation, animals, and other factors. Populations of native plants and animals have responded and 

adapted to these characteristic disturbance regimes over time (~2500 years) and the resulting 

vegetation patterns, processes, and structure within an historic range of variability. These 

characteristic processes, patterns, and structure are termed “Reference Conditions.” 

Many of these VRUs have similar environments. For example, VRUs 2 and 3 are relatively dry. To 

simplify analysis, VRUs found in the Trego Analysis Area have been grouped into two forest types: 

warm - dry, and cool - moist. Map 3-3 shows a visual display of the VRUs within the analysis area. 

Following are summaries of the reference conditions for the VRUs found in the analysis area. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-16 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

VRUs 2 and 3 (Warm-Dry Forest Types – 7629 acres) - Historically, the warm-dry forests of the 

Trego Analysis area contained a considerable component of large western larch, many of which 

exceeded 25 to 30 inches diameter at breast height. This is evidenced by the large number of early 

1900s larch stumps that persist throughout the warm-dry forests until the present, often with the 

characteristic spring-board notches still visible in their sides. Analysis of stump and live tree 

diameters on 22 sites in the Trego and Swamp Analysis Area has shown large larch to have been 

much more common previously than today (Triepke, 1999). 

Fires have been a long-standing component of the warm-dry forest ecosystem. Evidence from the 

literature and fire scar studies suggests that mixed lethal or non-lethal fires occurred over the last 

200-300 years with a frequency of one every 15-33 years for the lowland associations and 19-50 

years for larch-Douglas-fir forests (Triepke, 1999). Stand replacement fires were likely infrequent and 

patchy, constituting patches of mortality within mixed-lethal fire mosaics. 

The dry forest types occur mainly on the lower elevations and consist of a mixture of Douglas-fir, 

western larch, and lodgepole pine. Species mix and stand density vary with aspect. 

Ponderosa pine normally inhabits these dry VRUs. However, in the Trego Area, ponderosa pine is a 

relatively small component of this VRU except in areas where it was planted in the past. Instead, 

Douglas-fir is the most common species in this dry VRU. Typically in the majority of the Trego Area, 

the southern aspects were historically Douglas-fir dominated with lesser amounts of western larch 

and lodgepole pine. Some of the areas were characterized by open park-like stands of Douglas-fir 

with grass and brush understories. Low and moderate-severity fires that typically occurred every 15-

50 years maintained these conditions. These fires removed smaller Douglas-fir trees and favored the 

larger diameter trees. When these low-intensity fires burned into small areas with heavier fuel 

accumulations or high densities of understory trees, they burned with more intensity, sometimes 

killing small patches of overstory trees. These are referred to as "mixed severity fires." As mentioned 

above, stand replacement fires occurred relatively infrequently. Stand-replacement fires probably 

occurred when a combination of conditions were present, such as when fuels built up to higher than 

normal levels (during times when the frequent low-intensity fires had not occurred for some time) or 

when hot, dry, windy conditions were present during periods of extended drought. 

On northern aspects at the lower elevations, Douglas-fir and western larch dominated, along with a 

few scattered ponderosa pine. Low-intensity underburns and mixed severity fires occurred at much 

the same frequency as on south exposures, however, due to higher moisture levels on north slopes, 

underburns were less extensive and stand densities were higher. Stand-replacement fires were more 

common on north slopes due to increased fuel accumulations and understory densities. In many 

cases, these stand-replacing fires would burn the entire north aspect, changing to an underburn or 

mixed severity fire when the fire encountered changes in fuel conditions or a slope or aspect change. 

A burn mosaic often resulted. 

On all aspects, there were areas where understories developed into thickets of dense Douglas-fir. 

Mixed severity fires created mosaics of even aged stands with individual and groups of surviving 

trees of different age and size classes. This provided structural and habitat diversity within stands 

and created conditions that were necessary for stands to regenerate. 

Root disease (Armillaria ostoyae) and the Douglas-fir beetle were the major forest health 

disturbances. Root disease mortality occurred in small, discontinuous pockets affecting mostly 

Douglas-fir. This was due to a combination of the relatively wide spacing resulting from repeated lowintensity burns and a moderate-to-heavy component of western larch and ponderosa pine, which are 

relatively resistant to root disease. Mortality resulting from Douglas-fir beetle attack was generally 

scattered, affecting mostly the older Douglas-fir. Occasionally, high levels of mortality may have 

occurred in denser stands that had a high component of mature Douglas-fir. Brown cubical root and 

butt rot (Polyporous schweinitizii) was scattered throughout the dry forest, acting mostly as a butt rot 

and weak root pathogen that rarely caused direct mortality, but often lessened the vigor of older 

Douglas-fir, predisposing them to a bark beetle attack that eventually killed the tree. 
 Forest Vegetation 

 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-17 

The spatial distribution of habitats is assessed by looking at forest patch sizes. Patches are areas of 

uniform vegetation that differ in structure and composition from that which surrounds them. Patches 

can be created by natural events or human activities. Patch distribution influences animal movement, 

the dispersal and proliferation of organisms, and genetic interchanges. Patch size may influence 

wildlife populations that are patch-size dependent. In general, the more moist a VRU, the larger the 

patch size that can be expected. This influence is due to the higher incidence of stand-replacing fires 

in the more moist forest types.

In this forest type, patch sizes resulting from stand-replacement events were typically 20-200 acres 

and averaged less than 100 acres (USDA Forest Service, 1999a). Small scale processes 

characteristic of dryer forests, such as mixed severity fires, favored small patches. 

VRUs 5 and 7 (Cool-Moist Forest Types – 7007 acres) - Analysis of historical aerial photos and 

fire scar dating suggest that non-lethal underburns played a lesser role in cool-moist than in warmdry forests; here, mixed lethal and stand-replacing fire was the rule (Triepke, 1999). 

Fire scar studies and reports from comparable forest types in the literature point to a stand-replacing 

fire interval of 150 to 200 years (see Triepke, 1999). Mixed lethal fires likely occurred every 50-100 

years. Stand-replacing fires, when they did occur, were much more extensive than in warm-dry 

forests and achieved large but non-uniform patch sizes of up to 100-300 acres (Triepke, 1999). 

The moist forest type occurred in lower moist subalpine areas and consisted mostly of various 

mixtures of western larch, lodgepole pine, Douglas-fir, subalpine fir, and Engelmann spruce, with 

western white pine, western red cedar, and western hemlock also occurring in a few areas. Stands 

were usually moderately-to-heavily stocked. Open forest conditions were uncommon due to the lack 

of frequent surface fires. The cool moist conditions in this forest type favored stand-replacement fires 

at long return intervals of 120-200 years. These stand-replacing fires were a result of heavy fuel 

buildups that occurred from a mixture of normal tree mortality and disturbance-caused mortality (e.g., 

past fires, windthrow, insects, disease). The fire pattern resulted in heavy tree mortality and the 

development of large, mostly even-aged stands. Both single and two storied stands developed, with 

the upper story in two-storied stands consisting of scattered large diameter western larch and 

Douglas-fir that survived the fire. Low-intensity fires also occurred. These generally were lightning 

fires during times of moist fuel conditions. Fires in these types of conditions tended to creep around 

causing light mortality overall. If fuel conditions became drier, some of these small fires turned into 

mixed severity fires, particularly on the drier aspects. These mixed severity fires would generally kill 

a majority of thin-barked species, leaving more fire-resistant trees such as western larch and 

Douglas-fir. 

Root disease occurrence and distribution in the moist forest type was dependent on the occurrence 

of susceptible species such as Douglas-fir and subalpine fir. If these species did not compose a 

significant component of the site for a generation or two, then root disease would occur only as 

isolated pockets. If these species were a major portion for one or two generations, then large root 

disease centers would develop and in some cases the root disease colonies would merge. In the 

analysis area, root disease levels in the moist forest types appear to be low, indicating that these 

sites have been largely dominated by the more root disease-resistant species such as western larch, 

western white pine, and Engelmann spruce. Brown cubical root and butt rot was scattered 

throughout the moist forest types, acting mostly as a butt rot and weak root pathogen that rarely 

caused direct mortality, but often lessened the vigor of older Douglas-fir, predisposing them to barkbeetle attack. 

A number of bark beetles played important roles in the moist forest types. Mountain pine beetle 

(Dendroctonus ponderosae), spruce beetle (Dendroctonus rufipennis), and western balsam bark 

beetle (Dryocetes confusus) were the most impactive over the Fortine Ranger District. Mountain pine 

beetles were the most aggressive of these, with periodic epidemics killing most of the eight inch 

diameter at breast height (DBH) and larger lodgepole pine over 70 years old in affected areas. 

Outbreaks of spruce beetle would cause moderate-to-high mortality in stands heavily stocked with 

larger diameter Engelmann spruce. These outbreaks were often precipitated by windthrow, which 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-18 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

allowed the beetle population to increase in the downed trees. Western balsam bark beetles were 

the major cause of mortality in subalpine fir, with infestations developing in trees weakened by 

drought, heavy tree competition, or disease. In the Fortine Creek drainage, periodic outbreaks of all 

three bark beetles have occurred in the past. 

Patch sizes averaged between 100 and 300 acres and patches larger than 300 acres were common 

(refer to the project file document entitled “Fire History of the Fortine Valley”). 

Affected Environment 

We have detailed how the diversity of forests can be described in the Northern Rockies and 

specifically within the Trego Analysis Area. The diverse vegetative condition in these forests is a 

valuable resource in itself. It is also the habitat base for a variety of other species, a modulator of our 

hydrologic cycle, and a modifier of climate. 

We have discussed briefly in Chapter 1 the principle that maintaining a diversity of species depends 

on maintaining a diversity of habitat conditions. The issue then becomes what standard to use; what 

to measure against to reach acceptable levels of diversity. We need to know what combination of 

Forest conditions will sustain the variety of species we are asked to maintain within a multiple-use 

framework that also accommodates human needs and interests. 

As noted by Haufler et al. (2003): 

One scientifically defensible way of defining “natural” and “ecosystem integrity” is in 

reference to what occurred historically at a specific site or location. Historical in this context 

is typically considered a time-period of several hundred years prior to Euro-American 

settlement. There is strong scientific foundation for using an historical reference for defining 

ecosystem integrity and biodiversity (Morgan et al., 1994; Swetman et al,. 1999; Hunter, 

1999; and Haufler et al., 2002 as cited in Haufler et al., 2003 ) as it was the complex and 

dynamic array of historical conditions that supported and defined the biodiversity of a region. 

Without reference to historical processes, functions, compositions, and structures, defining 

both “natural” and “integrity” becomes problematic.

Descriptions of historical conditions can be qualitative. Changes from these historic conditions can 

be inferred from the changes in important processes on the landscape. 

A. Vegetation and Disturbance Processes 

The forests in the analysis area are composed of a variety of vegetation that occurs in diverse 

combinations and patterns of species, ages, sizes, shapes, and structure. These forests provide a 

multitude of social, biological, and ecological benefits such as wildlife habitat, livestock forage, timber 

products, firewood, berries, clean air and water, and a pleasing setting for human enjoyment. 

Disturbance processes play a major role in shaping forest vegetative conditions. In the analysis area, 

fire is the major disturbance process that has shaped vegetative patterns and diversity. 

Forests in the Northern Rockies have developed in close relationship with wildfire. Many of the plants 

and animals found here rely on fire to change the structure, composition, and pattern of vegetation. 

Fire provides for regeneration of tree species (such as lodgepole pine), creation of openings in the 

forest, and the recycling of nutrients to the soil. The size and intensity of the fires and the ensuing 

vegetative patterns are determined by a combination of soils, topography, stand structure, and 

climate. Fire suppression policies instituted after the large-scale fires of the late 1800s’ and early 

1900s’ have had a strong influence on these fire-dependent ecosystems. Suppressing low-tomoderate intensity fires has altered the natural fire regimes. These fires would have consumed 

accumulating fuel under less severe burning conditions. As fuel has accumulated, the forested 

environment has become more conducive to high-intensity stand-replacement fire. 

The existing condition for the Vegetation Resource in the Trego Area is the result of disturbances 
 Forest Vegetation 

 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-19 

that have occurred through time, primarily wildfire, insect and disease infestation, and timber harvest. 

Fire suppression has also had a large effect on vegetation in the analysis area. Fire atlas records for 

the KNF for the years 1940-2003 show 79 lightning-caused fires in or near the analysis area. During 

this 62-year period, the Kootenai National Forest experienced numerous extreme fire seasons 

including 1940, 1967, 1973, 1979, 1984, 1988, 1989, 1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, and 2003. There is a 

high probability that, had suppression not occurred during these years, wildfires would have burned 

through significant areas of the landscape as stand-replacement or understory/low-intensity surface 

fires. Aggressive fire suppression is expected to continue in the analysis area. 

Exclusion of surface fires during the last 80 years has allowed accumulations of dead and down 

fuels and vigorous undergrowth of small tree thickets, which now provide ladder fuels that could 

accelerate initiation of major crown fires in forest stands. This combination of surface and aerial fuels 

could greatly increase the risk of stand-replacement fires in dry years. The Northern Region 

Overview identified this condition as resulting in a reduction in the “western larch cover type and 

emergent structure due to the lack of low-intensity, periodic disturbance, and a shift toward standreplacing fire, with associated loss of wildlife habitat for some species.” Much of this cover type that 

still exists is “at risk” for loss by stand-replacing fire (USDA Forest Service, 1998a). Additionally, the 

Analysis of the Management Situation for the Revision of the Kootenai and Idaho Panhandle Forest 

Plans (USDA Forest Service, 2003b) states that strategies need to be developed to restore wildlife 

habitat provided by the western larch cover type. Although regionally this forest type is decreasing, 

much of this “at risk” emergent western larch structure still exists in the analysis area with many of 

these stands meeting the criteria for “Old-Growth” as specified in Green and others 1992, corrected 

02/2005. 

High stocking densities occur in a number of stands in the analysis area. These cause excessive 

inter-tree competition that result in stress-related mortality, which in turn increases fuel loads and the 

risk for stand-replacing fire. In addition, crown fires occurring in densely stocked stands spread 

faster than crown fires occurring in less dense stands (Graham, McCaffrey, and Jain, 2004; Scott 

and Reinhardt, 2001; Pollet and Omi, 2002). 

B. Forest Health 

Forest health has many aspects to it and can have varying definitions depending on whom you ask. 

Forest health can be thought of as conditions that result in a healthy sustainable forest. One of the 

definitions of a healthy sustainable forest is defined as “a condition wherein a forest has the capacity 

across the landscape for renewal, for recovery from a wide range of disturbances, and for retention 

of its ecological resiliency while meeting current and future needs of people for desired levels of 

values, use, products, and services” (USDA Forest Service, 2003c). 

Forest insects and disease have also shaped vegetative patterns and diversity, although in many 

cases with less immediate impact than fire. When occurring at endemic levels, insects and disease 

can increase diversity and create important structural attributes such as snags and coarse woody 

material for wildlife habitat and create openings in the canopy that allow regeneration of seral 

species and an increase in browse species. When insects or disease increase above endemic 

levels, they can create heavy accumulations of fuels and increase fire hazard and provide breeding 

sites that serve to further increase insect populations and eventual tree mortality. Under natural 

conditions, insect and disease infestation help set the stage for wildfires to renew forest vegetation. 

In the Trego Analysis Area, fire suppression over the past 80 years has resulted in increased density 

of most stands and an overall maturing of the lodgepole pine component. In the absence of fire, 

insects and pathogens are the primary disturbance agents in most natural forests. Some of the 

actions of insects and pathogens can produce dramatic effects, such as large bark beetle or 

defoliator outbreaks. Such an outbreak occurred in the mid-to-late-1980's when an extensive 

mountain pine beetle outbreak occurred in the analysis area and throughout the Kootenai Forest. 

The mountain pine beetle generally killed 60-90% of the lodgepole in many of those affected stands. 

A majority of the stands that experienced these levels of mountain pine beetle mortality have since 

been regenerated. At present, there are few acres in the analysis area that contain lodgepole pine 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-20 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

in a condition susceptible to mountain pine beetle. There are, however, many stands currently 

infested by Douglas-fir beetles within the analysis area. Part of a larger Douglas-fir beetle outbreak 

affecting many Douglas-fir and mixed conifer stands throughout northern Idaho and western 

Montana, there are approximately 9100 acres of currently affected stands on the Kootenai Forest 

and 2300 acres infested within the Fortine Ranger District in 2004 (2004 USDA Forest Service 

Region 1 Aerial Detection Survey). Another 2800 acres are considered to be moderate to high 

hazard for infestation by Douglas-fir beetle in the analysis area. 

In 2004, subalpine fir mortality on the Fortine District increased from 1100 acres in 2003 to over 

1700 acres in 2004. On a regional basis, 2004 western balsam bark beetle populations were the 

highest ever recorded. Additional acres in the Trego Analysis Area that contain significant amounts 

of older, larger diameter subalpine fir could experience continuing mortality attributable to western 

balsam bark beetles. Coupled with these bark beetle hazards is the presence of root disease in the 

analysis area. Stands with moderate root disease have Douglas-fir or subalpine forest types and are 

found in all VRUs. 

For the summary forest health assessment, reference the Vegetation Project File for the 

document detailing Regional Entomologist Ken Gibson and Regional pathologist Marcus 

Jackson visit to the Trego Analysis Area in 2004 (Gibson and Jackson, 2004). 

Warm - Dry Forest Types (VRUs 2 and 3) - Four existing conditions differ from the reference 

conditions and present forest protection or forest health concerns. These conditions are as 

follows:

1. Effective fire suppression has changed the species composition and stand structure in 

portions of the dry forest types. The stand structure has changed from an open parklike stand of large trees to a two or three-story stand composed of a large widely 

scattered overstory with a dense understory of smaller Douglas-fir. These high-density 

understories provide ladder fuels that increase the potential for wildfires to develop into 

stand-replacing crown fires rather than the low-intensity underburns that historically 

occurred on these sites. As overstory trees gradually die, the sites they occupy are 

being taken over by thickets of Douglas-fir. Large trees are unlikely to develop due to 

overstocked stand conditions. In addition, the dense understory competes with the 

larger overstory trees for nutrients and moisture, which stresses these larger older trees 

and predisposes them to insect and disease attack. These developing stands are 

significantly different from reference conditions, where these sites were dominated by 

lower density large-diameter overstory trees, which were sustained through relatively 

frequent low-intensity fires. 

2. A number of areas have experienced moderate-to-heavy Douglas-fir beetle mortality

during the last 10 years. Fortine District aerial photos taken in 1998 show Douglas fir 

beetle mortality already present in 1998 in the Trego Analysis Area. Annual aerial 

detection flights have shown a trend of increasing Douglas fir beetle activity since 1998. 

This is largely due to high densities of mature Douglas-fir that predispose the stand to 

high levels of beetle attack coupled with extended drought. It is important to note that 

increased Douglas-fir beetle activity is occurring throughout northwest Montana and 

northern Idaho. A number of stands in the analysis area are at moderate-to-high risk of 

beetle attack because of existing high densities of mature Douglas-fir and increasing 

populations of bark beetles. Bark beetle mortality is adding to fuels accumulations, 

which is contributing to fuels hazard. 

3. High stocking densities of some stands - This condition is related to the above 

description of species composition and stand structure, but is more related to tree 

densities versus species and their arrangement. High stocking densities cause 

excessive inter-tree competition that result in stress-related mortality, which in turn 

increases fuel loads and the risk for stand-replacing fire. In addition, crown fires 

occurring in densely stocked stands spread faster than crown fires occurring in less 
 Forest Vegetation 

 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-21 

dense stands. 

4. As mentioned in the historic conditions portion of this section, western larch was 

formerly a large component of the Trego Analysis Area. There is concern that a lack of 

disturbances, primarily from fire, is converting sites formerly dominated by western 

larch to sites dominated by Douglas-fir. 

Cool - Moist Forest Types (VRUs 5 and 7) - Three existing conditions in the cool and moist 

forest types present forest protection or forest health concerns. As with the dry forest types, the 

number of acres of these existing conditions may differ from those found in the reference 

condition and present forest health concerns because they develop conditions leading to 

catastrophic fire. 

1. A buildup of surface and ladder fuels has occurred over most of the moist forest due to a 

combination of normal mortality, disturbance-induced mortality (e.g., windthrow, bark 

beetles, and root disease), and fire suppression. In a number of areas, this buildup could 

result in a large-scale stand-replacement fire if a fire start were to occur. Although large 

stand-replacement fires have historically occurred in this forest type, they are 

undesirable for a number of reasons: they destroy merchantable wood products and 

may result in significant impacts to soils, aquatic resources, air quality, old growth, and 

other wildlife habitat.

2. Fire suppression and exclusion combined with naturally occurring cycles has resulted in 

a shift from mixed severity fires towards stand-replacing fires. Mixed severity fires 

developed and maintained a large tree residual structure (emergent structure) where the 

overstory was dominated by large diameter seral species, particularly western larch 

(USDA Forest Service, 1998a). Much of this emergent structure still exists in the 

analysis area with many of these stands meeting the large tree criteria for old-growth as 

specified in Green and others 1992, corrected 02/2005. However, this structure is at risk 

for a number of reasons: (a) lack of mixed severity fires has resulted in a multi-layered 

structure with the understory composed of shade-tolerant species. These species 

compete with the large old overstory trees for moisture, nutrients, and crown space, 

lessening the vigor of the overstory trees; and (b) these shade-tolerant understory trees 

typically have full crowns that reach the surface. These full crowns serve as ladder fuels 

that enable surface fires to reach the crowns of the overstory trees. Fires that would 

normally be light surface fires or moderate mixed severity fires become stand-replacing 

fires that kill even the largest overstory tree; and (c) many of these emergent stands had 

a component of lodgepole pine that was killed in the mountain pine beetle epidemic in 

the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. This lodgepole pine mortality developed high fuel loads 

conducive to stand-replacing fires (USDA Forest Service, 1998a). 

3. Douglas-fir beetles (DFB). Douglas fir beetles have been active on the Fortine Ranger 

District for many years. Populations of the beetles have been well above endemic levels 

for several years (see Aerial Detection Survey Summaries for the Fortine Ranger District 

Last Five Years). Much of this activity has been in the Trego Analysis Area with specific 

location in the Lime, Magnesia, Jim and Stewart Creek drainages. Additionally, another 

2800 acres in the analysis area are considered to be moderate to high hazard for 

infestation by DFB. The occurrence of root disease-caused mortality has also increased. 

Long-term drought in western Montana has added to the effects of root disease. In 

some cases, scattered root disease pockets are expanding. This is partly the result of 

increasing densities of root disease-susceptible Douglas-fir. 

C. Vegetative Conditions Related to Past Harvest 

Since the late 1950s, timber production has been the major land use activity on National Forest 

lands in the Trego Analysis Area. Road building and salvage harvest continued into the 1990s in 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-22 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

response to heavy mortality of lodgepole pine from the mountain pine beetle. State and private 

timber harvesting has also occurred throughout this period. 

The analysis area has received a moderate to high level of harvest over the last six decades (see 

Table 3-5). These activities include a variety of management practices ranging from intermediate 

harvests (e.g., salvage, commercial thinning) to regeneration harvests (e.g., clearcuts, seedtree, 

shelterwood, etc.). Regeneration harvest has taken place across 34 percent of the analysis area. 

Intermediate harvest has taken place across 27 percent of the analysis area. 

In recent years, the harvest and conversion of mature mixed conifer stands has been the focus of 

silvicultural entries. In areas where shade-tolerant species were the predominant type harvested, 

both artificial (planting) and natural reforestation has been used to increase the abundance of shade 

intolerant species (e.g., western larch), which have a greater adaptability to fire. In some cases, 

mechanical scarification was used to reduce grass competition and create sites for newly planted 

seedlings. Most of the young, managed stands have vegetatively recovered and provide wildlife 

hiding cover and, in some cases, thermal cover. 

Table 3-5. Harvest History of the 14,775 Acre Trego Analysis Area* 

Decade of Harvest Regeneration Harvest Intermediate Harvest 

1940-1949 46 No records 

1950-1959 117 No records 

1960-1969 1104 72 

1970-1979 2278 1216 

1980-1989 1102 528 

 1990-1999 363 1403 

2000-present 47 799 

Total: 5057 acres Total: 4018 acres 

*Forest Service managed acres 

Environmental Consequences 

Direct and indirect effects on the vegetation resource are described below for proposed activities 

identified in Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered for all past, proposed, current, and 

reasonably foreseeable activities listed and described in Chapter 1 and are described at the end of 

this section. 

Description of Measurement Indicators 

Four indicators will be used to evaluate how the alternatives respond to vegetation areas of concern. 

1. Douglas-fir Beetle - The indicator used to measure the effects of different alternatives for this 

area of concern will be: the number of acres currently classified as having moderate to 

high Douglas-fir beetle hazard treated with stand manipulation that reduces this beetle 

hazard 

Stand conditions have been identified that are most conducive to Douglas-fir beetle outbreaks 

(Gibson and Lockman, Fortine Insect and Disease Report, 2000). These conditions are: 

1. Stands in which Douglas-fir is the predominant species and sites on which those stands are 

most commonly found (species composition). The higher the percentage of Douglas-fir in the 

stand, particularly in excess of 50-60 percent, the greater the susceptibility. Douglas-fir 

habitat types on south-facing slopes and drier ridges sustain more beetle-caused mortality 

than other types. 
 Forest Vegetation 

 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-23 

2. Age of Douglas-fir in the stand. As Douglas-fir reaches maturity, it slows in growth and is 

more susceptible to the beetle. Tree ages greater than 80 years are considered to be highly 

susceptible; beyond 120 years becomes extreme. 

3. Size of Douglas-fir in the stand. Usually associated with age, stand susceptibility is also 

reflected in the size of host trees. Generally, the larger trees in the stand are the more 

susceptible. Trees less than 14 inches diameter breast height (dbh) are not as likely to be 

attacked successfully. 

 4. Overall stand density. When stocking exceeds 80 percent of "normal" stocking for the site, 

susceptibility to attack increases significantly. The denser the stocking, which increases 

inter-tree competition and also provides cooler, more shaded environments, preferred by the 

beetle, the greater the probability of infestation. As a rule of thumb, as stocking exceeds 150 

square feet of basal area, susceptibility to the beetle correspondingly increases. 

Management activities that alter one or more of those stand conditions - species or size composition, 

age, or stocking - can correspondingly reduce susceptibility to Douglas-fir beetle. All three action 

alternatives contain different levels of intermediate harvesting. One of the objectives with this type of 

harvesting is reducing Douglas-fir beetle risk. 

Intermediate harvest would be used to affect a change in two of the four stand conditions mentioned 

above. 

• The first and probably most important change would be an overall reduction in stand 

densities. Depending on the VRU and aspect, densities would be reduced to a target 

level from 60-120 square feet per acre by removing smaller diameter trees that 

generally occupy the lower portions of the tree canopies. The hottest driest sites would 

have the lower end of the basal area range post-harvest, while the more moist sites 

would be left near the higher end of the range. In general, the smaller diameter trees 

would be targeted for removal. 

• The second Douglas-fir beetle risk reduction method used would be lowering the 

overall species composition of Douglas-fir, leaving a higher composition of other 

species such as western larch. 

Overall stand ages would not be decreased by the proposed intermediate harvests. Actual average 

stand ages may increase slightly due to the proposed harvest targeting removal of the smaller trees. 

Average stand diameters would not be reduced by any proposed intermediate harvest. The removal 

of trees in the smaller diameter classes would increase the average diameter of the stand. 

2. Stocking Density - The indicator used to measure the effects of different alternatives for this 

area of concern will be: Acres of stands where stocking density is reduced, improving the 

vigor of the stands and reducing surface and ladder fuels. 

High stocking densities occur in a number of stands in the analysis area. These cause excessive 

inter-tree competition that result in stress-related mortality, which in turn increases fuel loads and the 

risk for stand-replacing fire. Indicators A and B will have some stands/acres that overlap. Stand 

densities would be reduced while favoring the larger tree structural component discussed in Indicator 

A. 

3. Sustainability of Larch - The indicator used to measure the effects of different alternatives for 

this area of concern are: Number of acres treated with intermediate or regeneration 

harvests in stands where western larch is greater than 20% of the total stand basal area. 

The Northern Region Overview identified the western larch cover type as “at risk” due to the lack of 

low-intensity, periodic disturbance and a shift toward stand-replacing fire, with associated loss of 

wildlife habitat for some species (USDA Forest Service, 1998a). Additionally, the Analysis of the 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-24 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Management Situation for the Revision of the Kootenai and Idaho Panhandle Forest Plans (USDA 

Forest Service, 2003b) states that strategies need to be developed to restore wildlife habitat 

provided by the western larch cover type. Arno et al. (1997) found that, prior to fire suppression, 

typical western larch old growth stands in Montana were open and park-like and were dominated by 

large diameter trees with a very light understory. Basal areas ranged from 60-160 ft2/acre, with most 

stands averaging 70-90 ft2/acre. Currently, a majority of the stands in VRUs 2, 3, 5, and 7 that are 

dominated by an overstory of western larch and Douglas-fir contain an encroaching understory of 

subalpine fir, Engelmann spruce, and other shade-tolerant species. Basal areas in these stands 

currently range from 150-200+ ft2/acre. These conditions are considered to be moderate-to-high risk 

for stand-replacing crown fire. Western larch would be the preferred reserve tree species in all these 

treatments. 

4. Mortality - The indicator used to measure the effects of different alternatives for this area of 

concern will be: Acres treated in stand with high mortality (basal area of dead trees >20 

square feet/acre) or where past bark beetle mortality has resulted in heavy surface fuel 

loads. This measurement indicator will track the amount of area where heavy surface fuels are 

treated to reduce future fire severities. 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ALTERNATIVES 

Vegetation and Disturbance Processes

The forests in the analysis area have developed in close relationship with wildfire as discussed in the 

previous section. Many of the plants and animals found rely on fire to change the structure, 

composition, and pattern of vegetation. Fire is important for maintaining seral species, creating 

openings in the forest, reducing tree competition, regeneration of lodgepole pine, and recycling 

nutrients to the soil. The exclusion of fire in the landscape since the early 1900s has had a strong 

influence on these fire-dependent ecosystems. Controlling low-to-moderate intensity fires and 

creating an environment conducive to high-intensity stand-replacement fire are altering the natural 

fire regimes in the analysis area. This assumes that fire suppression would continue and active 

forest management continues on its current trend. 

Forest Health

The mountain pine beetle was active in portions of the analysis area for a number of years. As 

previously described, mortality in lodgepole pine likely peaked in the mid-to-late 1980's. Whether or 

not management actions are taken, insects and pathogens will continue to play their role in 

modifying the forest vegetation. The overall number of acres affected by bark beetles is likely to 

begin a slow decline as populations begin to decrease. However, this is speculative and somewhat 

tied to weather conditions (drought and mild winters) and stand disturbances such as fire or 

blowdown that can increase beetle populations. The Douglas-fir beetle is expected to continue to kill 

mature overstory trees in areas of higher densities and susceptible stand structure. 

Large areas of standing dead or down trees can provide a fuel matrix for the rapid spread of wildfires 

as was the case with numerous fires which burned in 1994 and 2000 throughout the Kootenai 

National Forest. In particularly dry years, insect infestations and mortality could increase 

dramatically. Bark beetles have the ability and the tendency to affect management options. Where 

these effects are considered negative, it may be necessary to respond in an appropriate and timely 

manner. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

The proposed alternatives would manage forest ecosystems and improve forest health to varying 

degrees depending on the acres treated. Table 3-6 provides a comparison of the acres of each 

proposed harvest treatment. 
 Forest Vegetation 

 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-25 

Table 3-6. Harvest Summary by Alternative 

Harvest Treatment Alt A-No Action Alt B Alt C Alt D 

Regeneration Harvest Acres* 0 438 347 723 

Intermediate Harvest (i.e. Improvement 

Cut/Commercial Thin) Acres 0 1014 753 1082 

Fuel Treatment with Manipulation Acres 0 182 139 182 

TOTAL ACRES 0 1634 1239 1987 

*Regeneration harvest acres include approximately 48 acres of individual tree selection uneven aged harvest 

as described in Chapter 2. 

The alternatives differ in their response to the Purpose and Need for Action. Specifically, the 

alternatives differ quantitatively in the following aspects: 

• Acres of stands where stocking density is reduced, improving the vigor of the stands and 

reducing surface and ladder fuels. 

• Acres of Douglas-fir beetle hazard reduction. 

• Acres of emergent larch stands treated, increasing the sustainability of these stands. 

• Acres of mortality treated. 

Table 3-7 displays the summary of vegetation objectives by alternative. 

Table 3-7. Summary of Vegetation Objectives by Alternative 

Alternative 

Acres Of 

Douglas- Fir 

Beetle Hazard 

Reduction 

Acres Of 

Stands Where 

Stocking 

Density Is 

Reduced 

Acres Of Larch 

Stands Treated 

Acres of stands 

with high 

mortality or high 

surface fuel loads 

treated 

A 0 0 0 0 

B 723 1178 899 392 

C 368 1013 718 284 

D 753 1420 1021 392 

* Treatment objectives in some proposed units meet more than one of the measurement criteria that 

respond to the purpose and need. Therefore, total acres in the above table (Table 3-7) exceeds total 

treatment acres listed in Table 3-6. 

A. Acres of Douglas-fir beetle hazard reduction. 

Of the action alternatives, Alternative D treats the most acres of moderate to high Douglasfir beetle hazard stands; Alternative C would treat the least. 

B. Acres of stands where stocking density is reduced, improving the vigor of the stands and 

 reducing surface and ladder fuels. 

Intermediate harvesting would be the primary method of density reduction. In addition, fuel 

treatments (another form of intermediate harvesting) and occasionally regeneration harvesting would 

be used to reduce conifer densities. Intermediate harvesting would result in a fully stocked stand 

after harvesting. Depending on the VRU and aspect, densities would be reduced to a target level 

ranging from 60-120 square feet/acre. The hotter drier sites would generally leave the lower end of 

the basal area range, while the more moist sites would be left near the higher end of the range. 

Alternative D proposes the most acres of density reduction, with Alternative B the middle ground. 

Alternative C proposes the least. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-26 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

C. Acres of “emergent larch” stands treated, increasing the sustainability of these stands. 

The three action alternatives propose three different forms of treatment to help ensure the larch 

cover type is conserved and perpetuated. These treatments include intermediate and regeneration 

harvests. Intermediate harvest would be used to reduce high densities of trees and reduce ladder 

fuels. Shade-tolerant conifers such as subalpine fir and Engelmann spruce would be targeted for 

removal. Regeneration harvests would be used to help create two-storied western larch stands. Site 

preparation techniques that favor natural and artificial regeneration of western larch would be used 

(normally underburning, preferably in the fall if burning conditions allow). In addition to intermediate 

and regeneration harvests, Fuel Treatment with Manipulation would also be used to favor western 

larch in those stands with a healthy component of larch. Alternatives B and D would treat 

approximately 182 acres with combination treatments of selective slashing, pre-commercial and 

commercial thinning. Alternative C would treat 139 acres with combination treatments. 

In regeneration harvests, 15-20 of the largest, healthiest western larch and Douglas-fir trees per acre 

would be retained where available. These reserve trees would provide seed, shelter for regeneration, 

and wildlife benefits, in addition to leaving large diameter trees on site for aesthetics. These reserve 

trees will become snags and down woody debris sometime in the future. 

As displayed in Table 3-7, Alternative D treats the most acres of larch stands, followed by 

Alternative B. Alternative C treats the least amount of larch stands and conducts less intermediate 

harvesting than Alternatives B and D. Alternative A proposes no harvesting. In the long term, this 

would have a negative effect on western larch as the proportion of larch as a cover type would slowly 

decline over many years as tolerant and mid-tolerant species take over the sites formerly dominated 

by western larch. 

D. Acres of stands with mortality or high surface fuel loads treated. 

Alternatives B and D propose to treat the same amount of acres of these types of stands (see 

Table 3-7). Alternative C treats the least. 

Alternatives B and D include a salvage treatment in undesignated effective old growth (UEFF). 

Unit 37 is a mixed Douglas-fir/western larch stand that has been undergoing mortality caused by the 

Douglas-fir beetle. Aerial photos from 1998 show mortality occurring at that time. This mortality has 

continued to occur, as verified by intensive stand exams in this particular stand in 2002 and 2005. 

Opening Sizes Greater than 40 Acres 

The National Forest Management Act of 1976, Section 6 (g)(3)(F)(iv), establishes opening size limits 

according to geographic areas, forest types, or other suitable classifications. Regulations establish 

the size limit for harvest openings in the Trego Area at 40 acres, with exceptions for larger openings 

when they will produce a more desirable combination of net public benefits (36 CFR 219.27 (d)(2)(i)). 

The action alternatives were designed to more accurately represent historical disturbance regimes 

and reduce fuels. The Northern Regional Guide (USDA Forest Service, 1983a, page 2-5A) provides 

for limitations on sizes of openings. Exceeding the 40-acre size limitation requires Regional Forester 

approval. Table 3-8 displays the opening sizes for larger units created under Alternatives B, C and D. 
 Forest Vegetation 

 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-27 

Table 3-8. Opening Sizes Greater than 40 Acres 

Alternative Unit # Acres Total Acres 

Alternative B 12 65 

 13 58 

 47 94 217 

 

Alternative C 13 41 

 47 81 

 122 

Alternative D 12 65 

 13 58 

 32 59 

 35 66 

 47 94 

 61 80 

 422 

Four issues drive the reasoning behind the request to exceed the 40-acre limit. These include: 1) 

insect and disease considerations; 2) fuel loads related to past mountain pine beetle mortality or ingrowth of heavy subalpine fir and Douglas-fir regeneration; 3) patch size, and 4) wildlife habitat. 

Following is a brief description of these issues: 

1) Insect and disease – Unit 12 has extensive root disease mortality occurring. Unit 12 also has 

some active Douglas-fir beetle infestations. Unit 13 has been significantly affected by 

mountain pine beetle mortality. Portions of Unit 13 are understocked due to this heavy 

mortality. These two units that have been affected by insect and diseases exceed the 40-

acre limitation. 

2) Fuel loads – Unit 13 in particular has heavy fuel loads caused by past mountain pine beetle 

mortality. Dead lodgepole in excess of 50 percent have now fallen and resulted in heavy fuel 

loads in some areas. These areas of heavy fuel loads exceed the 40-acre limitation. 

3) Patch sizes – Units 32, 35, and 61 (Alternative D) are located in the cool/moist portions of 

the Trego Analysis Area. Reference condition patch sizes for the cool/moist setting are 

typically 100-300 acres in size with 300-acre plus patch sizes common. By conducting these 

harvests, vegetation patch sizes would move closer to reflecting historic disturbance regimes 

for these cool-moist settings. 

4) Fuel treatment – Unit 47 is included in all action alternatives. This unit is a portion of the past 

“Stryker Burn”, a large burn that began in the Brimstone Area and spread east to Highway 

93 and beyond in 1926. Portions of this old burn had past thinning activities that reduced the 

densities of very heavy regeneration that occupied the area after the burn. Trees on these 

past thinned areas are of desirable species and growing well for the most part. Trees in the 

un-thinned portions are very dense and small diameter (2-6 inches) despite being over 70 

years old in most locations. A larger opening size is desired to better match the local 

disturbance regime and help create an effective fuel break between the Trego and Sunday 

Analysis Area. The Sunday Analysis Areas contains thousands of acres of similar forest 

cover created by the Stryker burn. 

These regeneration harvest openings are necessary to meet project goals and objectives. The 

larger-than-40-acre harvest openings would emulate natural processes associated with a mixed 

severity/stand-replacement fire occurrence and be closer to desired conditions in size and effects. 

Shade-intolerant species, primarily western larch, would have sufficient light and other resources to 

grow vigorously. This would lead to more resilient forest stands with a trend toward maintaining 

forest health. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-28 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Vegetation Project File, considers and describes 

proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in 

Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on the vegetation 

resource are not included in this section. Those activities that cumulatively affect vegetation are 

discussed below. 

Vegetation Management – Pre-commercial thinning would help create healthy vigorous stands of 

trees composed of a desirable mixture of tree species. These stands would be more resistant to 

insects and disease and be able to better withstand low-intensity wildfires. Due to their limited scale, 

harvest of Christmas trees and boughs would not be expected to contribute to or inhibit efforts to 

achieve desired stand conditions. Some blowdown is likely to occur around edges of existing and 

new units that are exposed to prevailing winds. Salvage of blown down trees may occur within the 

analysis area under the Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI (USDA Forest Service, 1998c). 

The thinning treatments are intended to reduce tree stocking and competition, maintain vigor, and 

improve species diversity. These foreseeable actions are consistent with the objectives of the 

proposed action and help maintain the trajectory of these forest conditions towards a desirable 

condition. 

Livestock grazing - Livestock grazing may continue on the Swamp-Fortine Grazing Allotment. Fifty 

cow/calf pair are permitted to graze on the allotment from late May/early June to the end of 

September. Continued livestock grazing is not anticipated to contribute to nor inhibit efforts to 

achieve desired stand conditions. The vast majority of grazing in the analysis area occurs on 

roadsides, and very little damage has been noted in timber stands. The exception to this is one 

existing harvest unit where livestock congregate and have, over many years, compacted some of the 

area and likely affected tree growth. This is an isolated occurrence, however, and has no discernible 

effect outside of the immediate area of impact. 

Other Activities - Other foreseeable actions include noxious weed control, road maintenance, 

administrative road use, and public recreational use. These activities are not expected to contribute 

to nor inhibit efforts to achieve desired stand conditions. 

Forest Plan Consistency 

All proposed treatments in all action alternatives are consistent with the Forest Plan standards for 

timber management and meet or exceed the standards and guidelines for vegetative management. 

Forest Plan direction provides that timber management activities would be the primary process used 

to minimize the hazards of insects and diseases and would be accomplished by maintaining stand 

vigor and diversity of plant communities and tree species. 

All action alternatives were designed to meet all Forest Plan standards. 

Insect and Disease –The Forest Plan identifies a goal of controlling insects and disease to historic 

endemic levels (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, II-4). High stocking levels in a number of stands would 

allow current trends to continue which would result in an increasing level of bark beetle attack. 

Alternatives B, C, and D are consistent with this goal to varying degrees. These alternatives use 

treatments that would effectively treat stands with high stand densities. 

Size of Openings – The Forest Plan does not have a requirement (goal or standard) that limits 

opening sizes to 40 acres or less. All alternatives are consistent with the Kootenai Forest Plan for 

opening sizes. 

Management Areas – Alternatives B, C, and D contain units that propose intermediate harvest in 

Management Area 24.
 Forest Vegetation 

 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-29 

Timber standards #1 and #2 for MA 24 state, “This MA is not suitable for timber production” and 

“Timber harvest is permissible on a case-by-case basis,” respectively (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, 

III-116). 

Alternatives B and D include timber harvest of 25 acres in Unit 4 and 20 acres in Unit 6 located in 

MA-24. Alternative C includes 10 acres in Unit 62 and 12 acres in Unit 63 of MA-24 harvest. The 

objective of these intermediate treatments are to reduce conifer densities on the site and help create 

a fuel break between the Trego and Sunday Analysis Areas (see patch size write-up above for 

further information). Stands contained within Unit 4 average 250-1400 trees per acre with the 

plurality of the trees in the 1-7 inch diameter size class. Stands contained within Unit 6 average 300-

950 trees per acre with the plurality of the trees in the 1-7 inch diameter size class. 

Proposed treatments of these units would reduce the stocking on the site, and help meet one of the 

goals of MA 24 to “Manage for site-protection, primarily....” (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, III-116) by 

reducing ground and ladder fuels along with reducing the risk of stand-replacing crown fire.

ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION

Direct and Indirect Effects 

No prescribed burning, harvest treatments, or fuels reduction would take place with this alternative. 

Only natural processes would occur within these stands and continue to affect forest succession and 

health. The condition of untreated forest areas would change over time, with continuing mortality, 

declining growth, and wood decay as a result of insect mortality in high-risk stands. For some 

species, this will create available growing space and increased growth. In many areas, this change 

will continue a trend whereby shade-tolerant species that are more prone to insects and disease and 

are less fire-adapted replace shade-intolerant species that have adapted to the influences of fire and 

are generally less susceptible to insects and diseases. The No Action Alternative would not enable 

management of forests that encourages more resilient and sustainable forest conditions. The No 

Action Alternative would also not contribute to the purpose and need of managing forests that have 

the capacity for renewal and recovery from disturbances, the Kootenai Forest Plan and National Fire 

Plan goals and objectives. This alternative would not meet the purpose and need to provide wood 

fiber to support local, regional, and national needs. 

Disturbance Processes and Forest Health 

The analysis area was identified with moderate to high levels of forest health concerns. However, 

many of these acres had overlapping health concerns (e.g., one stand can have both root rot and 

high Douglas-fir beetle hazard). None of these moderate-to-high hazard areas would be treated with 

this alternative. Trees currently impacted by bark beetles would not be treated in this alternative, and 

options to recover economic value and increase species diversity would be deferred. Of the 

numerous western larch stands that require some type of restoration treatment to be maintained in 

the landscape, none would be initiated. 

The following section details vegetation and forest health changes that are expected to occur under 

the no action alternative. 

A. Dry Forest Types (VRUs 2 and 3) 

These forest settings have historically experienced fairly frequent, low-intensity, and mixed severity 

fires as a predominant natural disturbance. Since we know that disturbance drives the development 

of forest structure, there are noticeable trends that can influence ecosystem health and landscape 

patterns. If vegetation development continues without a disturbance event (e.g., harvest, wildfire), 

these stands would continue their trend toward a higher representation of Douglas-fir at the expense 

of western larch, which requires disturbance to maintain its presence. This trend would continue to 

reduce the forage potential for wildlife, would not promote the maintenance of western larch, and 

would not move toward a more open stand structure that is better suited to the re-introduction of fire 

as an ecosystem process. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-30 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Stands with a significant Douglas-fir component would continue to increase in density and become 

older - two characteristics that increase their susceptibility to Douglas-fir beetles. Without fires or 

associated management actions that disturb portions of the landscape, the extent and intensity of 

insects and pathogens would undoubtedly increase and result in a community that is less resilient. 

These consequences may lead to a reduction in site quality and continued shift in species 

composition. 

The no action alternative, coupled with continued fire exclusion, would increase the numbers of 

wildlife snags due to continued natural decadence. 

B. Cool - Moist Forest Types (VRUs 5 and 7) 

In comparison with many of the other habitat settings, the influence of no action and continued fire 

exclusion on vegetation in many moist landscapes is less evident, in the short term, due to the firefree intervals generally being longer. Moist sites such as this are characterized as having mixed 

severity and infrequent stand-replacement fires within a range that is similar to recent historic levels. 

However, based on fire history research and recent wildfire experiences on the Kootenai Forest in 

1994 and 2000, it is expected that no action and continued suppression of ecologically important 

mixed severity fire would eventually promote larger stand-replacing fires than typical, particularly as 

forest homogeneity increases and higher stand densities persist. The influence of no action on age 

class distribution is minimal in the short term. The relatively high number of stands in the early seral 

stage reflects past management related to mountain pine beetle mortality. Many of these early seral 

stands would move into the mid-seral stage and contribute to a more balanced age class distribution. 

No action and continued fire suppression would continue to move species diversity toward a greater 

proportion of mid-tolerant and shade-tolerant species, which are not as adapted to fire. Many of 

these sites with long interval fire cycles are approaching a point of being fairly decadent and 

becoming overmature. Insect and disease problems can become more significant as forest 

conditions age, particularly with mountain pine beetles and balsam bark beetles. No action in this 

area would not provide the opportunity to restore western larch to characteristic levels that are 

considered more resilient, better adapted to fire, and with a great degree of tolerance to root disease 

and bark beetles. 

Where more frequent fire occurs, the presence of insects and disease appears to be lessened. In the 

near future, the stands at risk would likely be those currently in overstocked conditions where tree 

vigor is typically low. As a result, overall landscape diversity could be reduced for some time due to 

less age class diversity and more fuels continuity. Western larch would be at risk of being killed in 

stand-replacement fires due to heavy beetle generated down fuel loads and fill-in of shade-tolerant 

species over the years. This would decrease the amount and distribution of western larch on the 

Trego landscape. 

With no action and continued fire exclusion, snag habitat and downed woody debris would increase 

in most mature stands as decadence occurs and older age classes develop. Historically, multistoried old growth forests were located in these moist settings and maintained by succession and 

disturbance regimes. No management in this forest type foregoes an opportunity to promote growth 

and provide a more suitable condition for providing future old growth replacement in site-specific 

areas. Without the thinning mechanism of fire or selective harvest, many stands would not achieve 

the structural attributes or trend towards old forest conditions. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Beginning in the 1950’s, previous regeneration harvest has occurred on approximately 5050 acres 

within the analysis area (See Table 3-5). These managed stands are fully stocked with a mixed 

species composition, provide wildlife hiding and thermal cover, and contribute to the mosaic of 

vegetative diversity that occurs in the analysis area. Many of these managed stands have been precommercially thinned at one time. The No Action Alternative would defer the opportunity to thin 
 Forest Vegetation 

 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-31 

additional sapling size stands that would have contributed to this habitat diversity and maintained 

tree health and vigor. The more recently harvested stands are stocked with a variety of young trees 

and understory vegetation, providing varying degrees of wildlife hiding cover and forage for many 

animal species. These conditions would not be influenced in the short term by no action. The No 

Action Alternative would not allow for restoration of western larch and western white pine. The 

continued loss of these important species would vary by specific location, but would occur. 

Accumulation of fuels from existing and expected dead treefall would likely increase the intensity of a 

fire in the future. No action would add some degree of degradation where poor forest health is a 

present concern. 

Forest Plan Consistency 

A decision not to provide silvicultural treatment would not contribute to the sustainability of the 

forests within the analysis area nor would it meet the purpose and need of this project. High stand 

densities of fire-intolerant species and increasing ladder fuels have some potential negative 

considerations. Without fuel abatement through harvest, excessive natural fuels accumulate and 

would likely lead to higher long-term fire suppression costs. Without prescribed fire, the Forest Plan 

goal of simulating natural ecological processes, creating habitat diversity for wildlife, and maintaining 

ecosystems would not be realized. Additionally, the maintenance of diverse age classes would be 

limited to that which presently exists. 

A loss in economic value would occur as the dead, dying, or mature lodgepole pine is left. Without 

stand improvement activities or removal of high-risk host tree species, additional mortality from bark 

beetles is likely to occur. Alternative A is not consistent with the Forest Plan goal of controlling 

insects and disease to historic endemic levels (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, II-4). The No Action 

Alternative would not move the existing forest conditions within insect-killed areas towards the 

desired conditions identified by the ID Team. Stand productivity would be below optimum following a 

natural successional pattern. Ingrowths of shade-tolerant species would continue to occur and 

reduce our ability to manage for seral fire-adapted species. Restoration of white pine and western 

larch on moist cover types would not occur. 

CONSISTENCY WITH THE NATIONAL FOREST MANAGEMENT ACT 

The National Forest Management Act and the implementing regulations require specific findings to 

be made when implementing the Forest Plan. Those findings include the following: 

a. Suitability for timber production. Harvest units proposed on suitable lands have been 

reviewed by a Certified Silviculturist and determined that they are located on suitable lands and 

capable of being regenerated within five years of timber harvest. 

b. Clearcutting and even-aged management. The Kootenai Forest Plan direction favors use of 

even-aged silvicultural systems with the Management Areas proposed for harvest in this 

assessment. The ID Team and the Silviculturist have determined that prescribing even-aged 

systems on specified units is appropriate. The decision path for this rationale is displayed in the 

project file. Most of the target stands for regeneration harvest units would result in two-storied 

stands, yet would be considered even-aged. Clearcutting is not planned under any of the three 

action alternatives. 

c. Vegetative Manipulation. The National Forest Management Act provides that timber harvest 

and other silvicultural practices shall be used to prevent damaging population increases of forest 

pest organisms and treatments shall not make stands susceptible to pest-caused damage levels 

inconsistent with management objectives. Harvest of trees provides social and economic benefit, 

reduces potential losses attributed to insects and diseases, and manipulates forest vegetation to 

enhance wildlife habitat or meet associate objectives. The silvicultural prescription that directs 

the vegetative management process is designed to meet Forest Plan goals, objectives, and 

guidelines for forest productivity and wildlife habitat improvement while achieving ecosystembased management. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-32 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Improvement harvest and commercial thinning are proposed for some stands in order to improve 

tree vigor of the desired leave trees and maintain or enhance plant diversity. NFMA provides for 

these treatments where they increase the growth rate of residual trees, favor commercially 

valuable species, favor species valuable to wildlife, or achieve some other multiple use 

objectives. 

d. Regeneration Potential. The National Forest Management Act specifies, "timber would be 

harvested from National Forest system lands only where there is assurance that such lands can 

be adequately stocked within five years after final harvest" (16 USC 1604). Determination of 

adequate stocking is based on reforestation surveys conducted within a five-year period 

following harvest or site preparation. Results of these stocking surveys are compared with the 

desired and minimum levels identified in a site-specific silvicultural prescription written for each 

treatment area. Restocking is considered satisfactory when the harvest area contains the 

minimum number, distribution, and species composition of vegetation specified in the 

prescription. 

Forest and Fortine Ranger District regeneration data demonstrates that proposed harvest sites 

can be adequately restocked within five years from the time of harvest, and that proposed 

activities would be expected to comply with the Forest Plan (see Table 3-9). Regeneration 

survey records on the KNF have been analyzed for each VRU affected by proposed units in this 

project. A regional report (Regeneration Time Frame Report) in the District's TSMRS database 

was used to obtain reforestation success results. Numbers from this report were summarized 

with the results displayed in the project file. 

Table 3-9. Regeneration Success – Percent of Stands Restocked within 5 Years* by VRU 

Vegetation Response Unit 

(VRU) 

Kootenai National 

Forest 

Fortine Ranger 

District 

 Artificial Natural Artificial Natural 

2 – Moderately warm and dry 92% 95% 90% 96% 

3 – Moderately warm and 

moderately dry 

92% 98% 89% 96% 

 

4 – Moderately warm and moist 92% 88% 

 

No stands No stands 

5 – Moderately cool and moist 94% 90% 100% 100% 

6/8 – Moderately cool and wet, 

cool and wet 

80% 75% 75% 100% 

 

7 – Cool and moist 95% 97% 92% 96% 

9 – Cool and moderately dry 95% 95% 89% 

 

93% 

* Data runs were conducted August 3, 2003 

** n = number of stands in sample 

The data shows that harvest sites are highly likely to be adequately restocked within five years of the 

proposed time of harvest. 
Noxious Weeds

Trego EA 3-33 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Noxious Weeds 

Analysis Area 

The bounds of analysis for noxious weeds is the Trego Analysis Area. This scale provides a useful 

context in which to assess effects of the proposed alternatives on noxious weeds. 

Affected Environment 

The spread of noxious weed species has been identified as a concern for the Trego project. The 

Trego Analysis Area contains a variety of plant community types, varying from fens, marshlands, and 

riparian forest to open forestlands and bedrock meadows. A number of noxious weed species have 

been introduced throughout the Fortine Ranger District. Several populations of weeds are known to 

occur within and near the analysis area as displayed in Table 3-10 below. 

Table 3-10. Noxious Weed Populations Known to Occur in the Trego Analysis Area 

Category Common name (latin name) Category Common name (latin name) 

1 spotted knapweed (Centaurea 

maculosa) 2 tansy ragwort (Senecio 

jacobaea) 

 1 orange hawkweed (Hieracium 

aurantiacum) 1 meadow hawkweed (Hieracium 

pratense) 

 1 oxeye daisy (Chrysanthemum 

leucanthemum) 1 Canada thistle (Cirsium 

arvense) 

 1 bull thistle (Cirsium vulgare) 1 houndstongue (Cynoglossum 

officinale) 

 2 Dalmation toadflax (Linaria 

dalmatica) 

Noxious weeds are classified into three categories. Category 1 weeds are established and relatively 

widespread. They have a high probability of causing severe economic and environmental damage. 

The goal with these weeds is to contain them within an infested area and reduce their plant 

populations. Category 2 weeds are classified as new invaders. These weeds have a high probability 

of causing severe economic and environmental damage. The goal for these weeds is to eradicate 

small infestations and reduce larger infestations. Category 3 weeds are potential invaders that are 

not yet known to occur in the area. 

The majority of weeds in the Trego Analysis Area are Category 1. The only exceptions are Tansy 

Ragwort and Dalmation Toadflax, Category 2 weeds. Dalmation Toadflax has been found in the 

Brimstone Area (Road 865A near the railroad right-of-way) and was inventoried and treated in 2005. 

Another Category 2 weed, Rush Skeletonweed, has not yet been found in the analysis area. 

However, it has been found in the adjacent Fortine Analysis Area. Lincoln County and the Fortine 

Ranger District have increased their vigilance looking for this weed, particularly along the railroad 

right-of-way. In 2005 the County and the Forest Service funded a crew specifically to look for and 

treat any Rush Skeletonweed in Lincoln County. 

Spotted knapweed is the most widespread weed species on the Forest. Knapweed is a biennial or 

perennial forb that can produce up to 18,000 seeds per plant per year under favorable conditions. 

These seeds are known to survive in contaminated soil or gravel for at least 12 years. 

Spotted knapweed ranks as the number one weed problem on rangeland in western Montana. It is 

adapted to a wide range of environmental conditions. On the Kootenai, it was previously believed 

that invasions of knapweed mostly occurred on roads and roadsides; however, infestations are now 

known to occur on skid trails and other disturbed areas and in the native plant communities of 

grasslands or forest openings. Spotted knapweed is most successful in warmer dryer habitat types 

(USDA Forest Service, 1991a). 
Chapter 3 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

3- 34 Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Orange and meadow hawkweeds are increasing in number of infestations, size of infestations, and 

density of plants within the analysis area. Seeds of both of these species are wind dispersed. The 

hawkweeds appear to spread faster than spotted knapweed and can disperse without human 

assistance. The exotic hawkweeds also spread vegetatively through stolons and, once established, 

can form dense mats that exclude most other forms of vegetation. 

Noxious weeds are most often found in disturbed sites such as gravel pits or roads. Disturbed sites 

are especially vulnerable to new weed invasions. Weed spread appears to be strongly tied to 

vehicles (cars, trucks, heavy equipment; any device where weeds can readily become lodged and 

transported). Automobiles spread weed from infested areas (usually roadsides or parking areas) to 

non-infested areas. Once seeds are deposited in suitable settings, weed populations can establish 

themselves and flourish. Wind, cattle, and wildlife also provide secondary means for noxious weed 

spread, but automobiles and machine equipment are particularly effective in the spread of weeds 

because:

• they can readily hold and transport seed and plant parts (especially in portions of the 

undercarriages) 

• automobiles are the most popular mode of human transportation over longer distances 

• automobile use is concentrated in areas where weed densities are highest (disturbed 

roadsides and parking areas) 

Heavy seeded weed species such as knapweed, hawkweed, toadflax, and houndstongue are, in 

fact, dependent upon some type of transport vector other than wind for their dispersal. 

Noxious Weed Control

Active weed control work within and outside the analysis area began in approximately 1986 when the 

Fortine Ranger District contracted with Lincoln County to do weed control work. Starting in about 

1992, the District initiated its own weed control program utilizing District employees. Weed 

management has resulted in limiting existing numbers and distribution of noxious weeds. 

With the exception of perhaps bull thistle, the aforementioned plant species are extremely capable 

competitors. Preventing noxious weeds from invading new areas is the least expensive and easiest 

way to control them. Spraying of herbicides is currently the most effective method of control once 

noxious weeds have been introduced. There are current proposals to spray in or near several of the 

treatment units identified with this project. The Kootenai Forest conducted an environmental 

assessment (USDA Forest Service, 1997a) for the application of herbicides which addresses the 

environmental and economic consequences of weed infestations and chemical control. 

Recently, biological control agents have been released on the Forest to control spotted knapweed, 

Tansy Ragwort, St. John’s-wort, and Dalmatian Toadflax. The result of these releases is not yet 

apparent on some species of noxious weeds. Bio-control agents require a number of years to 

increase their populations to a level that will noticeably impact their weed hosts. The Flathead 

National Forest is reporting up to 90% success on Cinnabar moth biocontrol of heavy infestations of 

tansy ragwort in the Little Wolf Fire Area (Tansy Committee Meeting Notes, 10/16/03). Another biocontrol insect, Urophora affinis, a seed head fly, is well established in Lincoln County and in Montana 

and is decreasing seed production of spotted knapweed. In general, biological controls reduce the 

vigor or seed production of noxious weed species. Inevitably, some seeds are still produced. 

Biological control agents do not eliminate weed populations and do not prevent the spread of weeds. 

Bio-controls have the greatest impact on their weed hosts when several agents are attacking the 

same plant host. Biological controls are best used on weed species which are already well 

established in an area rather than on new invaders. Some weed species have not had biological 

control agents developed for them. For instance, orange and meadow hawkweed are very similar to 

many native and desirable hawkweed species. If biological control agents were released on orange 

hawkweed there is a risk that native hawkweed species could be negatively affected. 
Noxious Weeds

Trego EA 3-35 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

A combined program of mechanical, biological, and chemical weed control on Forest Service lands is 

the goal of the Kootenai Noxious Weed Program, along with educational effort directed at the 

prevention and management of weed populations in Lincoln County. 

Environmental Consequences 

Direct and indirect effects on noxious weeds are described below for proposed activities identified in 

Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered for all past, proposed, current and reasonably 

foreseeable activities listed and described in Chapter 1 and are described at the end of this section. 

Noxious weeds are capable of out-competing native vegetation and proliferating freely. Native 

vegetation provides forage for deer, elk, and other bird, animal, and insect species. In comparison, 

noxious weed species do not provide forage for deer and elk and can displace native vegetation. 

Decreases in the total number of plant species as a result of noxious weed infestations has been 

observed on the Kootenai. By displacing native vegetation, noxious weeds reduce the ability of wild 

communities to support plants and animals native to the ecosystem and reduce the ability of 

communities to recover from disturbance. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Harvest and fuel treatment activities, along with their associated ground-disturbing activities, would 

disturb forest habitats. This could favor the spread or introduction of noxious weed species, 

potentially impacting native vegetation. Weed spread would be facilitated by vehicle travel in and out 

of analysis areas and by ground disturbance resulting from log skidding, fire line construction, 

mechanical piling, burning, and road work and construction. 

Measurement Indicators - It is difficult if not impossible to predict the actual biological, ecological, 

and economic consequences of noxious weeds. Measurement indicators here are presented in 

terms of probability: certain activities having a greater potential for negative effects than others. The 

amount of any activity likewise has a bearing on the probability of effects. Five measurement 

indicators have been chosen to contrast effects of the alternatives: these represent the primary 

factors affecting the introduction and spread of weeds by the proposed activities in the analysis area. 

These indicators were chosen because, as previously discussed, weed spread is strongly tied to 

vehicle and heavy equipment use. Measurement indicators are given in order of importance. 

(1) regeneration harvest – Three alternatives, B, C and D, contain regeneration harvesting as 

part of their proposals. Regeneration harvest involves the removal of up to 60-95% of the 

overstory (depending on the prescription). The ground is scarified by burning or harvest 

equipment to favor the mortality of competing vegetation and the regeneration of conifers in the 

understory. Of the action alternatives, Alternative D has the highest quantity of regeneration 

harvesting, followed by Alternative B, then Alternative C. 

(2) road construction - More miles of road would offer noxious weeds additional pathways for 

spread into unoccupied areas. Road construction itself would favor the spread of noxious 

weeds with (1) ground disturbance, (2) the removal of native vegetation, and (3) the transport 

and movement of heavy equipment within analysis areas. None of the action alternatives 

contain any permanent road construction. All the action alternatives contain the same amount 

of road decommissioning. 

(3) intermediate harvest - Intermediate harvest, either commercial thinning, salvage, 

improvement harvests or post and pole, involves the removal of up to 30-50% of the overstory. 

Ground is disturbed primarily where skid trails are made and logs are skidded. Following 

harvest, the ground may also be lightly disturbed with underburning or mechanical piling. With 

intermediate harvests, conifer regeneration is not an objective and the development and growth 
Chapter 3 

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3- 36 Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

of existing understory vegetation is normally favored, limiting the opportunities for colonizing 

weeds. Retention of a majority of the overstory also helps in this respect. 

Of the action alternatives, Alternative D has the highest quantity of intermediate harvesting, 

followed by Alternative B, then Alternative C. 

(4) road restrictions – Road restrictions would limit the amount of vehicle traffic in the analysis 

area and reduce the potential for noxious weed spread. The No Action Alternative would weigh 

higher in disturbance than the action alternatives in this category because the action 

alternatives implement road restrictions not included in the No Action Alternative. All action 

alternatives include adding 7.5 miles of seasonal road restrictions. Alternative C would also 

add 7.36 miles of yearlong road restrictions with Alternatives B and D adding 7.16 miles. This 

would effectively decrease the amount of vehicles traveling these roads. Alternative C would 

have the greatest potential to reduce the spread of weed seeds from vehicles more than 

Alternatives B and D. 

(5) Fuel Treatment with Manipulation - This treatment would be used to accomplish a range of 

resource objectives in areas where the stand density, topography, proximity to private land or 

visual concerns preclude the use of underburning without prior mechanical treatment. Some 

non-sawtimber commercial products may be available in these areas, including but not limited 

to the bio-mass utilization of chips, tops, firewood, and poles. Selective slashing could follow 

this product removal with resulting slash being excavator piled and burned. Piled slash would 

generally be burned in late fall after receiving adequate moisture to reduce the spread of fire in 

open areas and before the piled material becomes too wet to burn. Underburning could occur 

within 3-5 years after initial treatment. 

Table 3-11 compares acres of disturbance by alternative. Higher disturbance acres correlate to 

more favorable conditions for spreading noxious weeds. Alternative D has the highest potential 

to create conditions favorable to spreading weeds due to the number of acres disturbed while 

Alternative A has the least potential. Alternative B has higher potential than Alternative C. 

The total number of acres disturbed does not indicate that all of these acres would be infested 

with noxious weeds if the treatment were implemented. The total disturbance acres do, 

however, relate to the relative risk of increasing weed populations by alternative. Regeneration 

harvest units are more susceptible to weed infestation than intermediate harvest units. 

Table 3-11. Disturbance Levels – Comparison of Alternatives 

Alternative A B C D 

Acres of Regeneration Harvest 0 390 299 675 

Acres of New Permanent Road Construction (miles x 3 rounded to 

nearest acre) 0 0 0 0 

Acres of Temporary Road Construction (miles x 3 rounded to nearest 

acre) 0 0 0 0 

Total Acres of all Intermediate Harvest (Includes commercial thinning, 

Improvement cuts, Salvage, Post and Pole) 0 1014 753 1082 

Acres of Uneven-age management (disturbance would be very similar to 

intermediate harvest treatments). 0 48 48 48 

Acres of fuel treatment with excavator piling 0 182 139 182 

Acres of underburning (inside harvest units) 0 730 458 730 

TOTAL DISTURBANCE ACRES 0 1634 1239 1987 
Noxious Weeds

Trego EA 3-37 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Ecosystem Burning - Prescribed underburning (outside of harvest units). This treatment was not 

chosen as a measurement indicator because of its minimal disturbance effect on noxious weeds on 

the Fortine Ranger District. Also, while underburning may kill native understory vegetation, more 

often burning only top-kills perennial vegetation and rejuvenates growth from the root crown. Burning 

would generally take place in the spring rather than the fall. Burning in spring when soil moisture is 

higher would minimize the mortality of existing native vegetation, allowing them to retain their habitat 

space and limit colonizing by noxious weeds (Cass 1998; personal communication). Burning usually 

stimulates the productivity of perennial grasses giving them a competitive advantage over invader 

plants. 

Summary: The effects to native wildlife and plants as a result of weed infestations would be 

concentrated along road corridors and trails where ground cover, overstory cover, and soil 

development are limited. Road corridor populations are also the most noticeable and the most 

treatable. Harvest and burn treatments together would, however, increase the likelihood of noxious 

weed spread or introduction away from roads into surrounding plant communities. Hawkweeds and 

thistles are wind dispersed and have a higher potential for infesting harvest and burn areas than 

heavy-seeded perennials such as knapweed or sulphur cinquefoil. Infestations outside of road 

corridors are more likely if vehicles are taken off road. However, any off-road vehicle use must 

comply with timber sale contract provisions that require washing before being transported to the job 

site. 

All action alternatives are likely to contribute to the spread and abundance of noxious weeds, 

differing by the amount of disturbance and traffic implied with each alternative. However, Design 

Criteria, Table 2-10 listed in Chapter 2 would be implemented to reduce the spread of noxious 

weeds. Additionally, ongoing District management efforts would also contribute to the identification 

and treatment of weed populations. 

The majority of weed spread would continue to occur on roadsides, but could also occur wherever 

weed seeds are transported. Many noxious weeds have proven adaptable in a variety of 

environmental circumstances, although most problem species on the Kootenai NF compete most 

aggressively on warm-dry sites (Forcella and Harvey, 1983), especially if the sites have been 

disturbed or the tree canopy removed. 

New weed species could also inhabit the Trego Analysis Area in the future. 

Application of the Design Criteria (Table 2-10) would limit the introduction and spread of noxious 

weeds. Weed management is key to maintaining the integrity of plant communities and minimizing 

economic impacts. Harvest and burn sites would be monitored for weeds at least three times in the 

first 10 years following treatment. Roads scheduled for decommissioning would be checked prior to 

activity and weeds treated before the road is decommissioned. New introductions or infestations 

would be targeted for control measures. An aggressive District Weed Control Program (of monitoring 

and treatment) would offset the effects contributed by this project to the spread or increase in cover 

of noxious weeds. The control of Rush Skeletonweed on the Kootenai has been intensive and 

largely successful to date. Because the seeds of many weed species are viable for a decade or 

more, it is improbable that mitigation measures would be completely effective. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Weeds Project File, considers and describes 

proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in 

Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on noxious weeds are 

not included in this section. Those activities that cumulatively affect the species or habitat are 

discussed below. 

Past soil-disturbing activity and vehicle traffic have helped spread noxious weeds into the analysis 

area. Monitoring of roads has been conducted in the analysis area and results were used to compile 
Chapter 3 

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3- 38 Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

the most recent published Kootenai National Forest Monitoring and Evaluation Report (USDA Forest 

Service, 2005). 

Spraying of roads in the analysis area would reduce weed infestations along open roads in the short 

term. Management actions proposed in this project would increase total infested area in the short 

term. All alternatives, including to a lesser extent the No Action Alternative, would add cumulatively 

to the amount of area infested with noxious weeds in the analysis area. The best, and likely the only 

way to avoid this increase is through intensive weed management actions. 

There are no activities or actions that are expected to have a cumulative effect on noxious weeds 

except for recreation, road activity, livestock grazing, private land development, and vegetation 

management.

Most of these activities are expected to continue into the future, and noxious weed spread is likely to 

continue accordingly. Cattle and wildlife movement have a minor contribution to the expansion of 

weed populations in the Trego Analysis Area. Sites that become infested are likely to experience a 

decrease in plant species diversity and a decrease in wildlife forage.

ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

This alternative would have no ground-disturbing activities associated with it. However, it would 

impact the potential spread of noxious weeds in one aspect with continued road use. This alternative 

could cause a slight increase in the rate at which noxious weeds are spreading into the Trego 

Analysis Area because of the lack of road restrictions. The action Alternatives B, C, and D 

seasonally restrict 7.5 more miles of road more than the No Action Alternative. The action 

alternatives also restrict yearlong 7.16 miles and 7.18 miles of road more than the No Action 

Alternative. The No Action Alternative would not increase site disturbance through burning or 

harvesting. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

As mentioned, Forest Service policy directs the National Forests to conform to the Federal Noxious 

Weed Act of 1974. Accordingly, the Kootenai Forest established weed management direction with 

the 1987 Forest Plan. The Forest Plan addresses noxious weed species under the Forest-wide 

management direction and states in its goals that we will: 

"attempt to stop the spread and suppress the existing levels of noxious weeds through land 

management and weed suppression activities" (USDA Forest Service, 1987a). 

The Kootenai National Forest annually conducts weed monitoring as part of its Forest Plan 

Monitoring and Evaluation Report. The 2005 Report states that “monitoring indicates that several 

noxious weeds have increased more than 10% in the numbers of acres affected since the Forest 

Plan was signed in 1987." 

In terms of noxious weeds, the Trego Project is consistent with Forest Plan direction because of 

proposed mitigation in the form of Design Criteria, contract provisions, and Forest and District weed 

control policies. 
 Threatened and Sensitive Plants 

Trego EA 3-39 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Threatened and Sensitive Plants 

Analysis Area 

The bounds of analysis for discussion of the sensitive plant resource is the Trego Analysis Area, see 

(Map 1-1). Past vegetation conditions are considered in the context of the past 2000 years, 

according to pollen profile information obtained through peat coring. 

A. Threatened Plants 

Threatened plant species are species listed as threatened by the US Fish and Wildlife Service under 

the Endangered Species Act. Two species of threatened plants and one species proposed for listing 

as threatened are found in Northwestern Montana. These three species are Howellia aquatilis, 

Silene spaldingii, and Botrychium lineare. 

Howellia aquatilis (water howellia; family Campanulaceae) is federally listed as threatened and is 

suspected of occurring on the Kootenai Forest. Water howellia is a plant of glacial ponds and river 

oxbows that dry out in late summer (USDA Forest Service, 1997b). This plant species has not been 

found in the Trego Analysis Area nor anywhere else on the Kootenai to date. As its habitat is not 

known to exist in the analysis area, water howellia has a low probability of occurring. Furthermore, 

there is no significant physical or biological connection between the analysis area and known 

populations or critical habitat. Water howellia will not be treated further with this analysis. 

Silene spaldingii (Spalding’s campion or catchfly; family Caryophyllaceae) is listed as threatened and 

is suspected of occurring on Forest Service lands on the Kootenai Forest. Spalding’s catchfly is a 

plant of dry, bunchgrass steppe habitats (USDI Fish and Wildlife Service, 1999a). This plant is 

known from private land within the overall perimeter of the Kootenai Forest but is as yet not known 

from Forest Service lands in Montana. This species is not known from nor is its habitat found in the 

Trego Analysis Area. As such, it has low probability of occurring. Furthermore, there is no significant 

physical or biological connection between the analysis area and known populations or critical habitat. 

Spalding’s catchfly will not be treated further with this analysis. 

Botrychium lineare (linear moonwort; family Ophioglossaceae) is a candidate species for listing as 

threatened, but its listing is precluded by other priorities (USDI Fish and Wildlife Service, 2001). It is 

suspected of occurring on Forest Service lands on the Kootenai Forest. Linear moonwort occupies 

dry, disturbed limestone habitats in the grassland-forest ecotone on east side of the Rocky 

Mountains and at other scattered locations in continental climates of North America (USDI Fish and 

Wildlife Service, 2001). This species is not known from the Trego Analysis Area nor is its habitat 

found in the analysis area. As such, it has low probability of occurring. Furthermore, there is no 

significant physical or biological connection between the analysis area and known populations or 

critical habitat. Linear moonwort will not be treated further with this analysis. 

No other Proposed, Endangered, or Threatened plant species are known or suspected of occurring 

in the analysis area or on the Kootenai Forest. 

B. Sensitive Plants 

Sensitive plant species are those species that have been designated by the Regional Forester 

because of concern for population viability, as evidenced by 1) significant current or predicted 

downward trends in population numbers or density, or 2) significant current or predicted downward 

trends in habitat capability that would reduce an existing species distribution (Forest Service Manual 

2600 Series 2670.22). Sensitive species are not protected under the Endangered Species Act. It is 

the principal objective of the Sensitive Plant Program to manage for Sensitive species viability and to 

preclude their listing as Threatened or Endangered (36 CFR 219). 
Chapter 3

3-40 Trego EA 

Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

With the issuance of a Sensitive species list by the Regional Forester, Region One implements the 

direction contained in the Forest Service Manual. The Region One Sensitive Plant Species List was 

first published in Reel et al. (1989) and has been since updated periodically in formal internal memos 

to reflect new information. The most recent update was on March 12, 1999. Species on this list that 

are known or suspected of occurring on the Kootenai National Forest are listed in the Sensitive 

Plants Project File. 

All Sensitive plant resources are considered in the Sensitive Plant Program. Sensitive plant 

resources are existing populations and their habitats as well as unoccupied but suitable habitat. This 

Sensitive plant analysis contains two fundamental parts: 1) identification of suitable habitats for 

Sensitive plants, and 2) an assessment of effects to Sensitive plant resources by the proposed 

alternatives. 

Affected Environment

The analysis area is dominated by low relief mountainous topography formed from sedimentary 

rocks, especially argillite, dolomite and calcareous glacial till (Harrison et al., 1992). Montane 

coniferous forests dominate the vegetation. Sensitive plant habitats are more or less confined to 

specialized niches on the landscape, such as riparian forests and open sedge meadows (Table 3-

12). These habitats were subjected to a variety of different natural disturbance factors in the past. 

The recurrence of wildfire in the northern Rocky Mountain ecosystems has played a key role in the 

ecology of its vegetation (Habeck, 1987), including Sensitive plant habitats. In addition, Sensitive 

plant habitats are now also affected by humans, through timber harvest, roading, suppression of 

wildfires, cattle grazing and invasion of noxious weeds. 

The assessment of Sensitive plants and Sensitive plant habitat followed the methods outlined for the 

Kootenai Forest by Leavell and Triepke (1995). Suitable habitats for each Sensitive species known 

or suspected of occurring on the Kootenai Forest have been identified by consultation with Sensitive 

plant field guides and published and unpublished literature on Sensitive plants (Lesica and Shelly, 

1992; Vanderhorst, 1996, 1997) as well as through extensive field experience. Probability of 

occurrence of Sensitive species was estimated, including both historic and existing conditions. The 

species included in this assessment are those with a moderate to high probability of occurrence in 

the analysis area. The probability analyses took into consideration numerous factors, including: 

• past disturbance 

• locations of known populations 

• results of past field surveys 

• ecological requirements of the individual species (e.g., elevation, potential vegetation, land 

type, lithology, shade and moisture regimes) 

 

Rare plant inventories were conducted subsequent to these assessments by T. Spribille for a Trego 

Environmental Assessment (EA) in 1995. Further detailed surveys were carried out in 2004 and 

2005. All surveys took into consideration rare plants and rare habitats in addition to Sensitive 

species. These surveys took place in addition to other past and concurrent surveys of Sensitive 

plants in and around the analysis area (Vanderhorst, 1996, 1997). A total of 11 plant species 

currently listed as Sensitive by the USDA Forest Service (Table 3-14) have been documented in the 

Trego Analysis Area. In addition, nine other species tracked as “Species of Special Concern” (SSC) 

by the Natural Resource Information System/Montana Natural Heritage Program have been found in 

the Trego Analysis Area (Table 3-15). This list is important because Forest Service Sensitive plant 

species are often designated based on review of this list. 

An examination of habitat preferences for the Sensitive and SSC plants in the Trego Area shows that 

11 (five Sensitive and six SSC) are closely associated with calcareous fens and associated bog birch 

peatlands called carrs. Often surrounding such wetlands are calcareous spruce swamps, a habitat 

that supports a further six species (four Sensitive, two SSC). Taken together, fens and spruce 

swamps form the core of rare plant diversity in the Trego Area. Several of the sites are on private 
 Threatened and Sensitive Plants 

Trego EA 3-41 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

land within the boundaries of the analysis area and were documented with landowner permission. 

Two of the largest sites on Forest Service lands within the analysis area are in areas designated as 

Management Area 21 (Special Interest Areas with a botanical emphasis), a designation that clearly 

limits the types of management and emphasizes the botanical resource. 

Table 3-14. An overview of characteristic habitats and habitat trends of the Sensitive plant species 

found in the analysis area. 

Species Habitat Habitat trends 

Carex livida (Gray Sedge) 

Carex prairea (Prairie Sedge) 

Meesia triquetra (a moss) 

Scorpidium scorpioides (a moss) 

Trichophorum cespitosum (Tufted Club-Rush) 

Open calcareous fens, 

in watery channels, on 

tufa and in pools 

Existing habitat has been in 

general decline since arrival 

of Europeans; direct 

impacts have been minimal 

in subunit 

Amerorchis rotundifolia (Round-leaved Orchis) 

Cypripedium parviflorum (Yellow Lady’s Slipper) 

Cypripedium passerinum (Sparrow’s Egg Lady’s 

Slipper) 

Viola renifolia (Kidney-leaved White Violet) 

Calcareous spruce 

swamps 

Existing habitat has been in 

general decline since arrival 

of Europeans; direct 

impacts have been minimal 

in subunit 

Botrychium ascendens (Upward-lobed Moonwort) 

Botrychium crenulatum (Wavy Moonwort) 

Disturbed habitats 

(road and trail edges, 

abandoned log 

landings and skid 

trails) 

Available habitats have 

greatly increased since 

European colonization 

Table 3-15. Species of Special Concern tracked by the Montana Natural Heritage Program known to 

occur in the analysis area (no status with Forest Service). 

Species Habitat Habitat trends 

Catascopium nigritum (a moss) 

Meesia longiseta (a moss) 

Meesia uliginosa (a moss) 

Open calcareous fens, in 

watery channels, on tufa 

and in pools 

Existing habitat has been in 

general decline since 

arrival of Europeans; direct 

impacts have been minimal 

in subunit 

Bryoria nadvornikiana 

Melanelia septentrionalis (a lichen) 

Tuckermannopsis sepincola (a lichen) 

On branches of bog birch 

in peatlands 

Probably fairly stable: bog 

birch can survive some 

draining and probably was 

less affected by dredging of 

wetlands than other 

species 

Chaenotheca cinerea (a lichen) Old cottonwood trees in 

moist forest and on forest 

edges; in subunit in 

spruce swamp 

On the decline due to lower 

numbers of cottonwood 

trees. 

Ramalina thrausta (a lichen) On conifer branches, 

usually spruce, in 

calcareous spruce 

swamps 

Habitat is abundant and 

relatively stable 

Cladonia botrytes (a lichen) On dead wood, especially 

larch logs and horizontal 

surfaces of stumps 

Habitat is abundant and 

relatively stable 

Further Sensitive plant habitat is provided on disturbed sites along roads and in forest clearings. 

Here, Botrychium species sometimes becomes established in the course of mid-succession. A rare 

northern lichen species, Cladonia botrytes, occupies fallen logs and horizontal stump surfaces and is 

known from at least two sites in the Trego Analysis Area. 
Chapter 3

3-42 Trego EA 

Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Environmental Consequences

Direct and indirect effects on sensitive plant species are described below for proposed activities 

identified in Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered for all past, proposed, current and 

reasonably foreseeable actions listed and described in Chapter 1 and are described at the end of 

this section. 

The following effects analysis will focus on 1) measurable effects to Sensitive plant habitat and 2) 

effects on known populations. Habitats with moderate to high probability of occurrence of Sensitive 

plants are considered. Sensitive plant population trends are the ultimate measure for this analysis. 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

No old cedar forests, wetlands or spruce swamps are included in any of the proposed harvest units 

or other areas proposed for ground disturbance. No sensitive plant habitats have been identified in 

proposed regeneration harvest units, stands proposed for intermediate harvest, or areas proposed 

for fuel treatment. Therefore, there would be no known direct or indirect effects to potential Sensitive 

plant habitats or to known populations with implementation of any of the action alternatives. If any 

individual or populations of Sensitive plants are located in areas proposed for management activities, 

they would be protected under the provisions of the timber sale contract. Timber Sale Contract 

Clause C(T) 6.251# would be applied to modify the activity so that adverse effects would be avoided 

(See Design Criteria, 2-10). 

Some Sensitive plants of disturbed habitats also occur along roadsides used for hauling. These 

populations may be affected by localized road improvements, blading, increased road use and road 

dust in the course of the proposed activities. However, these activities are compatible with those that 

originally created these habitats. Furthermore, road decommissioning would lead to the creation of 

abandoned roadbed habitats favored by these species. The action alternatives may impact 

individuals but would not likely contribute to a trend towards federal listing or cause a loss of viability 

for Botrychium ascendens and B. crenulatum. There is no difference in this respect between 

alternatives. 

The action alternatives have the potential to spread noxious weeds by increasing disturbed areas 

that are vulnerable to weed infestation, and through increased vehicle traffic. Recreational and 

logging traffic and equipment, contaminated gravel, livestock and wildlife can transport weed seeds 

from infested areas to locations not infested. Noxious weeds have a detrimental effect on sensitive 

plant species and other native vegetation by more effectively competing for soil moisture, sunlight, 

and nutrients. Eliminated noxious weed seed transport mechanisms into populations of sensitive 

plants can reduce these impacts. Refer to the Design Criteria (Table 2-10) for the measures 

prescribed to reduce the spread of noxious weeds. 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

This alternative proposes no ground disturbing activity. No effects would result from this alternative. 

The response of each of the sensitive plant species to management activity varies by species, and in 

some cases, is not fully known. We do know that these plants and all the native vegetation of the 

Kootenai Forest evolved with and are adapted to the climate, soils, and natural processes that took 

place prior to settlement of this area by Europeans. Any management or lack of management that 

causes these natural processes to be altered may have a negative impact on native vegetation, 

including sensitive plants. An example of altered natural processes would be removal of fire from the 

ecosystem. Continuation of active fire suppression and the lack of fuels reduction on the landscape 

may influence Sensitive plant populations by increasing the risk of fire and its intensity when it does 

occur. However, these risks and potential effects are neither measurable nor quantifiable at the scale 

of the present analysis area. The increase in potential habitats of Sensitive plants of disturbed 

habitats that occupy abandoned roadbeds would not be realized with the No Action Alternative. 
 Threatened and Sensitive Plants 

Trego EA 3-43 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ALTERNATIVES 

Past effects to sensitive plant species in the analysis area may have occurred due to soil 

disturbance, overstory removal, burning, fire suppression, grazing, and the recent introduction of 

noxious weeds. The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Sensitive Plants Project File, 

considers and describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current and reasonably 

foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1. There are no activities or actions that would have a 

cumulative effect on sensitive plant species or their habitats. The Cumulative Effects Worksheet 

explains the rationale for no effects of these activities on populations and habitats. 

None of the action alternatives would likely contribute to a trend towards federal listing or cause a 

loss of population viability to any of the known Sensitive plant species in the Trego Analysis Area. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

The Kootenai Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service, 1987a) addresses Sensitive species under its 

Forest-wide management direction. In its goals it states that we will “determine the status of 

Sensitive species and provide for their environmental needs as necessary to prevent them from 

becoming Threatened and Endangered” (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, p. II-1). The plan also 

supports the protection and maintenance of important riparian zone features, marshes and water 

bodies, where Sensitive plants often occur (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, p. II-28, 29). In terms of 

Sensitive plants, all alternatives are consistent with the Kootenai Forest Plan. 

There is no significant physical or biological connection between the analysis area and known 

populations or critical habitat of Endangered, Threatened or Proposed plant species. As such, all 

alternatives comply with the Endangered Species Act. 
Chapter 3

3-44 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Fire and Fuels 

Analysis Area 

The bounds of analysis for Fire and Fuels consist of the Trego Analysis Area as defined in the vegetation 

section. Much of the Trego Analysis Area is within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI). See Map 3-4. 

Historical Condition 

Please refer to the Forest Vegetation section for discussion of historical fire and fuel conditions. 

Affected Environment 

The presence and absence of fire plays a key role in the composition and structure of the vegetation 

that occurs across the landscape. Fire has been an integral part of forest ecology within the Trego 

Analysis Area and the exclusion of fire from these ecosystems has resulted in a different range of 

vegetation conditions than occurred historically. Although other agents of change such as insects, 

disease, and timber harvest have affected vegetation in the past, fire has been the most influential. 

Historically, fire played a key role in keeping Douglas-fir/western larch stands open by burning the 

seedlings, saplings, and thin-barked pole-sized trees. Ignitions most likely came from two sources; 

lightning and humans (either purposeful or accidental). Native American’s were known to inhabit the 

Tobacco Plains area and also known to have used prescribed fire. Prior to settlement in the late 1800's 

and early 1900's the fire return interval was somewhere between 15 to 200 years. These fires would have 

been small in size during normal years with the occasional stand replacement fire. 

Over the last 80 years, fire suppression has changed the landscape from one dominated by mature, open 

park-like stands to one dominated by overstocked, multi-layered Douglas-Fir and Lodgepole Pine stands. 

These stands may burn as crown fires instead of ground fires if ignited during a dry season with windy 

conditions. This shift from a landscape that will generally burn as a ground fire with some crown fire on 

slopes greater than 35%, to one that will generally burn as a crown fire may be attributed to successful fire 

suppression over the last 80 years. 

The susceptibility of the stands in the Trego Analysis Area to wildfire depends upon the VRUs they are in. 

Conditions in some portions of VRUs 2 and 3 (Dry Forest) are similar to those that would be expected 

under the reference condition due to the use of prescribed fire in the past decade. The absence of fire and 

fuels management will lead to understory development and fuel loading increases which could result in 

stand-replacing fires rather than mixed severity fires. 

Conditions in VRUs 5 and 7 (Cool Moist/Forest) are similar to what would be expected under the reference 

condition, due to the relatively long periods between fires. Fuel will continue to accumulate until a standreplacing fire occurs. In VRU 7, fuels will especially increase in those areas where mortality in lodgepole 

pine is high. During extended periods of drought, fires that escape initial attack will likely escalate into 

stand-replacing fires. 

Fire starts from lightning strikes within and outside the Trego Analysis Area would continue to occur at 

historic frequencies. The nature of VRUs 5 and 7 under dry conditions can lead to large fires. Access to 

some areas of VRUs 5 and 7 is limited. This can delay suppression efforts, leading to the development of 

large-scale wildfires. Access to portions of VRU 2 is also limited. The fine, flashy fuels in these areas can 

spread fire quickly. 

Fuels in the Trego Analysis Area include both ground and ladder fuels. Ground fuels include all 

combustible material lying beneath or on the ground, including deep duff, roots, rotten buried logs, peat, 

and other woody debris, and dead and dying trees. Ladder fuels consist of shrubs, small trees, and lowgrowing branches on trees that allow fires to move from the ground to the tree canopy. Fuel loadings 

associated with the VRUs discussed are displayed below in Table 3-14. 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-45 

Table 3-14. Fire and Fuels Attributes by VRU 

Attributes VRUs 2, and 3 VRU 5 VRU 7 

Reference Fuel 

Loading 

1-10 tons/acre 18-25 tons/acre 25-35 tons/acre 

Existing Fuel 

Loading 

5-25 tons/acre 25-35 tons/acre 40 tons/acre 

(Stands containing 

lodgepole beetle kill 

and blowdown may 

have 50-80 

tons/acre) 

Reference Fire 

Frequency 

10-40 years; on 

wetter sites fires 

occurred at 25-100 

year intervals 

Mixed-severity fires 

every 50-100 years; 

stand-replacing 

fires every 100-300 

years 

Mixed-severity fires 

every 50-150 years; 

stand-replacing 

fires every 100-300 

years 

Existing Fire 

Frequency 

Fire occurrences 

are similar to what 

happened 

historically; 

however the 

frequencies have 

been interrupted 

due to suppression 

activities 

Fire occurrences 

are similar to what 

happened 

historically; fire 

frequencies have 

not necessarily 

been changed 

Fire occurrences 

are similar to what 

happened 

historically; fire 

frequencies have 

not necessarily 

been changed 

Fire Severity A mixture of ground 

fires and standreplacing fires 

A mixture of ground 

and stand-replacing 

fires 

A mixture of ground 

and stand-replacing 

fires 

The widespread occurrence of increased fuel loading has been identified in a number of studies, and 

appears to be especially pronounced in the high frequency-low severity fire regime types (Schoennagel, 

2004; Everett, et al 2000; Brown, P., et al, 1999). These studies indicate that overall fuel loads in these fire 

regimes have increased over the last century to levels that were historically rare, infrequent or occurred 

only in small, isolated patches. 

Excessive fuel loads, combined with their occurrence over large landscape areas has changed the nature 

of the fire disturbance so that fire disturbances that historically created patchy mosaics now create 

uncharacteristically large, uniform patch sizes (Peterson, David L. 2005). If these ecosystems are to 

experience a disturbance regime similar to that which they are adapted, the fuels must first be reduced to 

keep fire effects within an historic range. 

The continuity of heavy fuel loading over several hundred or thousand acres can perpetuate a future burn 

of high intensity and severity, as amounts of available fuel increase (Peterson, David L. 2005). A fire 

burning with a fuel load that is several orders of magnitude above historic loads can have negative 

ecological effects (Graham et al 1994) and fire managers are not willing to assume the inherent risk of 

escape in managing such fires close to the Intermix Community and in mid-slope stands. 

As noted previously, fire history records on the Fortine Ranger District and the Kootenai National Forest 

indicate that ignitions will occur and fires will burn across these landscapes. Heavy and continuous fuels 

are of particular concern in forest plant communities that were historically shaped by relatively frequent, 

low intensity fires. 

A. Lowering the Potential for Extreme Fire Behavior 

“Extreme” fire behavior implies a level of fire behavior characteristics that ordinarily preclude methods of 

direct control. The contribution of small and large fuels to fire behavior is discussed above. One or more of 

the following fire behavior characteristics is usually involved: high rate of spread, crowning, spotting, 

presence of fire whirls, and strong convection column. Extreme fire behavior results in unpredictability 

because such fires often exercise some degree of influence on their environment and behave erratically, 
Chapter 3

3-46 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

sometimes dangerously. Flame lengths greater than eight feet, fireline intensities approaching 500 btu/ft/s, 

fire blowups, fire flare-ups, and fire storms are often observed during times of extreme fire behavior. Under 

these conditions, fires are too intense for direct attack by hand crews, and handline and control at the head 

of the fire is ineffective (Rothermal 1983). Bulldozers, engines, and use of retardant may have limited 

effectiveness. 

Long range spotting is also associated with extreme fire behavior and severely affects the ability of 

firefighters to confine a fire. Spotting occurs when burning embers are lofted in front of the main fire and 

land in receptive fuels, starting new fires. Spotting is determined by three factors: (1) the source of the 

firebrands, (2) how far they travel, and (3) the probability of ignition on landing (Rothermel 1983). Shortrange spotting is not very significant as such spots are often overrun by the main fire and contribute little to 

forward fire spread. Long-range spotting is caused by embers lofted in the fire’s convection column and 

can be carried a mile or more in front of the main fire to start new fires that will burn independently of the 

main fire. Firebrands can be lofted by torching trees, a concentration of ground fuels burning with enough 

intensity to loft firebrands, or a fire whirl. Long range spotting is hard to predict except for the fact that it is 

associated with high fire intensities, torching, crowning, and fire whirls (Rothermel 1983). Tree torching is 

determined by weather, total fuel load, live fuel moistures (for those fuel models that include this as an 

input) and ladder fuels. Fires exhibiting long-range spotting pose some of the greatest threats to firefighter 

safety because they are extremely difficult to control. 

Reducing the possible impacts of extreme fire behavior can be achieved by reducing excessive fuel loads, 

ladder fuels, and crown spacing. Ladder fuels and crown spacing can be addressed in areas burned with 

low to moderate fire intensities if such fuels still exist, while excessive fuel loads can be addressed in low, 

moderate, or high-intensity burned areas if such heavy fuel loads exist. Fuels management may be a 

priority in areas where there are values at risk, or in areas where it was not historically common or 

widespread. 

B. Wildland Urban Interface, National Fire Plan, and Healthy Forest Restoration Act 

In the President’s 2000 National Fire Plan (USDA Forest Service and USDI Bureau of Land 

Management, 2000), one objective identified is to invest in projects to reduce fire risk. The National 

Fire Plan emphasizes communities at risk, readily accessible municipal watersheds, threatened and 

endangered species habitat, and other important local features where conditions favor 

uncharacteristically intense fires. The plan further identifies reducing hazardous fuel accumulations 

adjacent to private land. The National Fire Plan identified four communities near the analysis area as 

“being at risk.” These communities are Eureka, Fortine, Trego, and Stryker. 

The Federal Register (January 4, 2001) provides three categories of wildland urban interface (WUI) 

considered in the National Fire Plan. The wildland urban interface is defined as the line, area, or 

zone where structures and other human development meet or intermingle with the undeveloped 

wildland or vegetative fuels. 

Category 1: Interface Community: The Interface Community exists where structures directly abut 

wildland fuels. There is a clear demarcation between residential, business, and public structures 

and wildland fuels. Wildland fuels do not generally continue into the developed area. The 

development density for an interface community is usually three or more structures per acre, 

with shared municipal services. Fire protection is generally provided by a local government fire 

department with the responsibility to protect the structure from both an interior and an advancing 

wildland fire. 

Category 2: Intermix Community: The Intermix Community exists where structures are scattered 

throughout a Wildland area. There is no clear line of demarcation; Wildland fuels are continuous 

outside of and within the developed area. The development density in the Intermix Community 

ranges from structures very close together to one structure per forty acres. Fire protection 

districts funded by various taxing authorities normally provide life and property fire protection and 

may also have Wildland fire protection responsibilities. 
Fire/Fuels

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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-47 

Category 3: Occluded Community: The Occluded Community generally exists in a situation, 

often within a city, where structures abut an island of Wildland fuels (e.g. park or open space). 

There is a clear line of demarcation between structures and Wildland fuels. The development 

density for an occluded community is usually similar to those found in the interface community, 

but the occluded area is usually less than 1,000 acres in size. 

Healthy Forest Restoration Act 

On November 31, 2003, Congress made a commitment to reduce the threat of catastrophic wildfire 

to communities and restore our nation’s forests and rangelands by passing HR 1904, the Healthy 

Forests Restoration Act of 2003. On December 3, 2003, President Bush signed this into law. 

Objectives of this Act are to: 1) integrate the National Fire Plan, Regional Overviews, Land 

Management Plans, and Community Protection Plan objectives to identify high priority watersheds 

and landscapes, prioritize treatments, and manage fuels and vegetation; and 2) collaborate with local 

Volunteer Fire Departments (VFD), Rural Community Development (RC and D), State and Federal 

agencies, and Tribal governments to create a seamless process to accomplish fuel integration and 

restoration activities across jurisdictional boundaries. Various combinations of prescribed fire and 

mechanical treatments, including thinning, can be used to accomplish fuel reduction. 

Wildland Urban Interface as it Pertains to the Trego Analysis Area

The valley bottom portion of the Trego Analysis Area would fall into Category 2: Intermix Community. The 

Trego Analysis Area includes 5509 acres of private land and 1755 acres owned and managed by the state 

of Montana. Numerous private residences lie within the analysis area as much of the private land has been 

subdivided and homesteaded. These residential home sites encompass not only the sites and structures, 

but also the continuous slopes and fuels that lead directly to the sites. An estimated 20,101 acres of the 

analysis area lies within the WUI. When wildland fires start or enter these areas suppression efforts require 

a large commitment of firefighting resources. During large fire events involving urban interface suppression 

efforts, areas of otherwise high priority fires remain un-staffed because resources are committed to 

structure protection. This was the case on the Lolo and Flathead National Forests during the 2003 fire 

season when the Regional Forester issued a memo advising that, due to the potential threats to public 

safety, suppression resources would focus on protecting structures in the Urban Interface, leaving large 

portions of wildland fires in the area un-staffed. Potential opportunities to contain large fires often are 

missed as resources that would otherwise be available to conduct suppression actions are committed to 

structure protection. 

Experienced fire managers know that the Intermix Community is one of the most dangerous environments 

in which to conduct fire suppression operations. Poor ingress and egress compromise firefighters’ escape 

routes. Hazardous materials and other manmade materials produce toxic gases when burned and pose 

significant threats to firefighters and the public. The high values at risk (homes, vehicles, domestic animals, 

etc) can lead even the most seasoned wildland firefighters to take risks that he or she would not consider 

in the wildland environment. At times even the landowners themselves can pose a threat or interfere with 

suppression personnel as they try to assist in the suppression efforts. 

A recent study following the Cerro Grande wildland fire in Los Alamos, New Mexico indicated that the 

removal of fire-killed trees also reduces fire behavior (Greenlee 2002). Greenlee (2000/2002) studied the 

change in fire danger around the town of Los Alamos from the pre-fire fuels condition to the post-fire fuels 

condition. This study concluded that areas burned with high and moderate intensities could be a greater 

threat to Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) areas than the pre-fire fuels during post-fire years 6-12. Before 

year 6, there was not enough surface fuel accumulation, and after year 12 the regenerating forest began 

shading fuels and reduced mid-flame wind speeds. Specifically, WUI fire hazard would increase markedly 

by succession year six due to heavy fuel accretion in the moderately to severely burned stands. This 

results from numerous falling snags intermingled with the newly developing understory of grasses, trees, 

and shrubs. The study illustrates that fuel hazard is different in different years with increases in heavy and 

light fuels. Twenty-one years of post-fire photographs after the 1977 La Mesa fire, which burned ponderosa 

pine at high intensities near Los Alamos, provided reliable information on fuel accumulation over time to be 

used in Greenlee’s (2000/2002) study. 
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3-48 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Recent research (Cohen 2000a) addresses home ignitibility, or the potential for a home to ignite, in the 

WUI. Cohen concludes that homes ignite via one of two processes, direct flame contact with the structure 

and lofted firebrands landing on a receptive fuel (house). The Structure Ignition Assessment Model (SIAM) 

developed by Cohen (Cohen 1995) and results from the International Crown Fire Modeling Experiment 

(Alexander et al 1998) generally concur that a flaming front at a distance of 40 meters or more from a 

structure does not deliver sufficient heat energy to ignite the exterior of a home. However, lofted firebrands 

are also a principle WUI ignition factor, and in the 2000 Cerro Grande Fire in New Mexico, surface fires 

ignited homes while leaving green needles on trees around the home (Cohen 2000b). Highly ignitable 

homes can ignite during wildland fire without fire spreading near the structure. This occurs when firebrands 

are lofted downwind from fires. The firebrands subsequently collect on and ignite flammable home 

materials (such as roofs) and adjacent flammables (such as woodpiles, decking, or landscaped 

vegetation). 

The above-cited research exclusively addresses home ignitibility. Not addressed in the research are some 

of the other issues and problems faced by resource managers, fire professionals, and residents when 

considering fire in the WUI. When fire enters the WUI there remains the potential for loss of life, property 

and other values even if homes have been made fire safe. Not addressed above is the uncertainty 

regarding the number of property owners who would take the responsibility to reduce the ignitibility of their 

homes and maintain that condition over the ensuing years. Also not included is the potential loss of 

vehicles, other structures, domestic animals, and infrastructure (roads, utility lines, water supply, etc). So in 

this sense, simply reducing home ignitability ignores the cost to private and public entities when these 

values are damaged or destroyed in a wildland fire event. When fire enters areas adjacent to private land, 

there is high probability that firefighting resources will be deployed and members of the public may be 

exposed to the above-mentioned hazards even if all homes have been made fire safe. Many homeowners 

would likely find it undesirable to live in an intensely or severely burned over forest even if their home has 

survived the passage of fire. Not only are aesthetic values decreased for most people, but the risk of 

flooding and landslides can put homes and lives at risk during subsequent precipitation events. 

Because of the problems and complexities associated with the Intermix Community, resource managers 

and fire managers find it desirable to exclude, to the extent possible, wildland fire from these areas, and 

prefer to use prescribed fire to manage fuels; however, sociopolitical constraints may preclude or limit its 

implementation (Cram, Douglas S. 2006). Limitations include public attitudes toward smoke, fear of 

escaped fire, and potential negative visual effects of burns. The purpose of fuel treatments is to provide for 

firefighter safety, overall forest restoration, and minimize future loss of property and natural resources. 

Hazardous fuel situations (woody fuels less than 3” diameter and fine fuels) can be proactively managed 

before wildland fires occur, and such practices can effectively decrease fire spread, resistance to control, 

and resource impacts (Cram, Douglas S. 2006). 

Reducing the threat from firebrands also involves using fire resistant building materials (particularly roofing 

materials) and providing a safe work environment for firefighters at the structure, in addition to the 

treatment of fuels within fire spotting distance of the structure. More in depth information on defensible 

space, building materials and the wildland/urban interface can be found at www.firewise.org. 

Fire risk is increasing in the wildland urban interface area due to a number of factors including increasing 

population density, human use, fire suppression, and fire exclusion. These factors pose an increasing 

serious threat to life and property. The increased risk of structure loss due to wildland fire continues to 

grow in this area. There are currently no zoning or building restrictions in Lincoln County that would limit 

fire hazard around homes. Flammable building materials such as wood shake roofs are popular, though 

evidence exists that they seriously reduce the likelihood that homes will survive a wildland fire. Bridges 

with low weight capacities and narrow roads that lack turnarounds can limit emergency vehicle access to 

homes and limit escape routes. Firefighters experience difficulty in reaching and successfully protecting 

homes which are surrounded by thick forest. Even if firefighters can access property, they often cannot 

remain on site due to the extreme fire behavior and intense heat caused by heavy fuel loadings adjacent to 

the buildings. In addition, greater human use of the interface area leads to a higher incidence of humancaused fire starts and a greater risk of fires originating on private land will spread to National Forest land. 

Fuel treatment is especially needed in the drier habitat types. Most of the people living in the urban 
Fire/Fuels

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-49 

interface live in the drier habitat types. The dense stands of stagnated Douglas-fir and ponderosa 

pine in what were typically more open stands are leading to fire behavior in ecosystems that has 

rarely occurred in the past. Thinning, followed by appropriate fuel treatment (usually excavator piling 

followed by underburning, not trampling or chipping) has proven to be very effective at changing the 

behavior of wildland fires. While it is true that in some cases fires can still spread fairly fast due to 

the ground fuels being more exposed, in most cases the ground fire is still slower than the crown fire 

that would likely burn through untreated areas, and it has significantly less intensity. Wildland fires 

entering these treated stands generally stay on the ground with far less spotting problems, giving 

firefighters a much better chance of being effective at trying to suppress them. The fact that many of 

these drier sites on public lands are near homes should make them a priority for fuel treatment. 

They are in the urban interface zone (Hvizdak, 2003). 

C. Management Response to Fire 

 

The management response for all wildland fires under the existing Kootenai Forest Plan requires that all 

fires be suppressed using the appropriate suppression response. This includes fire suppression of wildland 

fire on private lands within or adjacent to National Forest lands. Within the Trego Analysis Area the 

appropriate response is suppression using rapid, aggressive initial attack actions to control a wildland fire. 

In other words, the Fortine Ranger District would initiate suppression action on any start in this area 

regardless of type (natural or human caused). In the event that this area were to experience multiple 

ignitions priority would be given to any fire that is a threat to life and private property. The risk of loss 

continues to escalate as settlement patterns increase along the private-public interface. Trego, Fortine, 

Stryker (TFS) Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) also responds to any fires on private property within their 

coverage area. Response time to the Trego Analysis Area area is about 10-20 minutes from the nearest 

Ranger District office. Additional Forest Service support has a 30-45 minute response. 

D. Fuel Management 

Prescribed burning is a land management treatment used during specified conditions to accomplish 

natural resource management objectives. Prescribed fires are conducted within limits of a burn plan 

and prescription that describes the conditions under which the burn can be conducted to meet these 

resource objectives. Prescribed fire is a cost-effective and ecologically sound tool for forest and 

range management. Its use reduces the potential for high-intensity wildland fires. In addition, this 

practice removes logging residues, controls insect and disease, improves wildlife habitat and forage 

production, and maintains natural succession of plant communities. 

The following objectives are taken into consideration when selecting the appropriate fuel 

management technique (FSM 5151.1, Methods of Fuel Treatment). 

• Treat activity fuels to reduce the potential for unwanted wildland fires. 

• Prepare harvested sites for tree planting. 

• Prepare harvested sites for natural seeding. 

• Enhance wildlife habitat and forage production. 

• Maintain the natural succession of fire-dependent plant communities. 

• Provide ecological control of insects and disease. 

• Reduce natural fuel buildup resulting from wildland fire suppression.

• Reduce competition from unwanted vegetation. 

The selection of fuel management techniques depends on several factors including silvicultural 

system, timber harvest method, timber harvest type, VRU, treatment economics, wildlife habitat, soil, 

water, cultural resource protection, and air quality. The Interdisciplinary Team selected fuel 

treatments which best balance resource objectives and economic concerns. 

Fuel management techniques are intended to reduce fuel loadings and hence decrease fire behavior 

and resistance to control, making suppression by hand crews a possibility. For this project, two fuel 

management categories are proposed: Fuels Treatment with Manipulation, which includes activity 
Chapter 3

3-50 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

and natural fuel reduction and Ecosystem Burning. 

Fuels Treatment with Manipulation would be used to accomplish a range of resource objectives in 

areas where the stand density, topography, proximity to private land or visual concerns preclude the 

use of underburning without prior mechanical treatment. Some non-saw timber commercial products 

may be available in these areas, including but not limited to the bio-mass utilization of chips, tops, 

firewood, and poles. Selective slashing could follow this product removal with resulting slash being 

excavator piled and burned. Piled slash would generally be burned in late fall after receiving 

adequate moisture to reduce the spread of fire in open areas and before the piled material becomes 

too wet to burn. Underburning could occur within 1-5 years after initial treatment. 

Activity Fuel Reduction includes entire tree yarding, excavator piling, and/or underburning. 

Activity fuels are fuels resulting from or altered by management practices such as timber 

harvesting, thinning, or road construction. Activity fuel reduction would be applied to units that 

contain timber harvest residue. Slash disposal is a necessary activity and would take place 

immediately after harvest has been completed. Research (Graham et al., 1999; Van 

Wagtendonk, 1996) has shown that residue left after timber harvest is highly susceptible to 

unplanned ignition and can result in fire intensities which hamper control efforts, create effects 

which would be detrimental to the environment, and endanger the public and suppression 

personnel. Without treatment, fuel loads in harvest units can be several times the normal fuel 

load the stand would normally have available for combustion. However, prompt treatment of 

these residues greatly reduces the potential for intensified fire behavior. Treatment of fuels 

also acts to release nutrients back into the ecosystem at a much quicker rate than possible if 

slash residue is allowed to naturally abate or decompose over several years. 

Natural fuels are fuels comprised of combustible wildland vegetation resulting from natural 

processes and not directly generated or altered by management practices, including fuel that 

has accumulated as a result of fire exclusion. Natural fuel reduction would occur in conjunction 

with all the treatments specified above. 

Entire tree yarding followed by pile burning: This fuel treatment method consists of yarding the 

entire portion of the tree; bole, top and limbs into a landing area for processing of logs and 

disposal of slash. This method is often used in combination with other treatments. Piles of 

yarded material are generally burned in late fall after receiving enough moisture to reduce the 

spread of fire in open areas and before piled material is too wet to burn. 

Excavator piling followed by pile burning: This treatment method would be used to accomplish a 

range of resource objectives in treatment areas where the stand density, topography, proximity 

to private land or visual concerns preclude the use of underburning. Piled slash would generally 

be burned in late fall after receiving adequate moisture to reduce the spread of fire in open 

areas and before the piled material becomes too wet to burn. 

Hand piling followed by pile burning: This treatment method would be used to accomplish a 

range of resource objectives in treatment areas where the stand density, topography, proximity 

to private land, or visual concerns preclude the use of underburning or excavator piling. Piled 

slash would generally be burned in late fall after receiving adequate moisture to reduce the 

spread of fire in open areas and before the piled material becomes too wet to burn. 

 

Underburning: This fuel treatment method would be used to accomplish silvicultural objectives, 

natural and activity fuel hazard reduction, wildlife habitat enhancement, and forest health 

objectives. In general, underburning south and west aspects would be done during in the spring 

(March through June), while underburning on north and east aspects would be done during the 

late summer and fall burning season (late August through November). 

Ecosystem Burning: Ecosystem Burning is the application of prescribed fire to fire-dependent 

ecosystems to meet multi-resource objectives. This treatment is proposed where underburning is 

appropriate and may involve selective hand slashing prior to ignition. The intent of this treatment in 
Fire/Fuels

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-51 

these areas is to reduce natural fuel, promote big game forage production, and mimic the frequent 

low-intensity underburns that historically maintained these areas. These burns may occur in the 

spring, prior to the growing season, or in the fall depending on precipitation amounts, utilizing hand 

and/or aerial ignition. No harvest or salvage would take place with this activity. This activity is 

dependent on available funding. 

Environmental Consequences 

Direct and indirect effects on fuel loading within the analysis area, including the WUI, are described 

below for proposed activities identified in Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered for all past, 

proposed, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities listed and described in Chapter 1 and are 

described at the end of this chapter. 

Description of Measurement Indicators 

Acres of Fuels Reduction within and outside the Wildland Urban Interface: Acres treated 

through various fuel treatments and underburning is the measurement indicator. Acres identified for 

treatment were determined by overall stand condition(s) including stand densities, basal areas, 

mortality, wind-throw, and insect damage. Other considerations are Vegetation Response Units 

(VRUs), aspects, relation to general and local winds, and relation to private property. Stand 

conditions directly contribute to how a wildfire is going to react to the current state of the stand. High 

density stands, or stands with heavy fuel loading that are located adjacent to private land are of a 

higher concern from a fuels perspective than stands located away from communities and private 

property. On a project level managers must often turn to local knowledge and on-the-ground 

experience to base management decisions. Other disturbance agents such as wind-throw and insect 

related mortality might alter potential fire behavior in individual stands, through watersheds, and 

across landscapes. When this occurs, fire managers must take this into consideration as well. 

Lodgepole pine communities are often problematic for fire managers, because fires occurring in 

lodgepole pine are often high intensity crown fires, and fire suppression creates heavy fuel buildups. 

When insect outbreaks or wind-throw occur simultaneously with past fire suppression near a wildland 

urban interface or in a municipal watershed, the 10-year Comprehensive Strategy of the National 

Fire Plan asks fire managers to “assign highest priority for hazardous fuels reduction to communities 

at risk, readily accessible municipal watersheds, threatened and endangered species habitat, and 

other important local features, where conditions favor uncharacteristically intense fires.” 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

All action alternatives would implement timber harvest in stands with high tree densities or heavy fuel 

accumulations that predispose the stand to high levels of bark beetle attack and stand-replacing 

wildland fire. Harvesting trees of lesser vigor, thereby allocating water, light, and soil resources to the 

larger, more vigorous trees would reduce tree density. 

Proposed treatments located within the Wildland Urban Interface area of the Trego Analysis Area are 

intended to reduce fuel loadings and, hence, decrease fire behavior and resistance to control making 

suppression by hand crews a possibility. The overall effect of these treatments would be to provide 

areas with fuel loadings in which suppression actions by firefighter hand crews could be engaged 

more effectively with less firefighter risk than under the existing conditions. Fuel treatment areas may 

act as a buffer if a crown fire does burn in the Trego Area. The more open canopy structure could 

slow the spread of a crown fire, causing it to transition to a surface fire allowing fire fighters safe 

access for suppression actions. 

Fuel treatment planned for all the action alternatives that include harvest and fuel treatment would 

not “fire-proof” the analysis area. It would have an effect on the behavior of unplanned wildfires 

which may ignite in or adjacent to treated stands. Effective fuel management would be achieved 

through all fuels treatment with manipulation techniques after harvest. Ecosystem burning would also 

occur in all action alternatives. This treatment would maintain fuel conditions on site and mimic the 
Chapter 3

3-52 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

frequent low-intensity underburns that historically maintained these areas in addition to promoting big 

game forage production. The potential for a future wildfire escaping initial attack is minimized and the 

long-term effects of wildfire and prolonged wildfire smoke on air quality are reduced. 

Fire intensities of future fires would be reduced to where it could be more easily suppressed by initial 

attack crews. Fires would still ignite, but with lower intensities from the reduction of surface fuels, 

suppression forces would have a much better chance of controlling fires. 

There would still be areas that would be left untreated with all action alternatives that would have 

heavy fuel accumulations that can lead to high-intensity fires. Blowdown, beetle-related mortality, 

and other causes of fuel accumulation would likely continue as well in the analysis area. However, 

treated stands would help reduce fuel loads and the corresponding risk for large-scale high-intensity 

wildfires. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

A. Fuel Treatments within the Wildland Urban Interface

The difference in effects among the action alternatives is relative to the number of acres of fuel 

reduction within the urban interface as displayed in Table 3-15 below. The interface area boundary in 

the Trego Analysis Area takes the following items into consideration: prevailing weather patterns, 

strategic topographic features or roads which could be easily defended or used as fuel breaks at 

reduced risk to firefighting personnel and general public, and the district boundaries shared with 

neighboring entities. Alternative D proposes to treat 2502 acres in the urban interface, 1130 of 

these acres will be treated by entire tree yarding followed by excavator piling. This alternative also 

includes 683 acres of ecosystem burning and 182 acres of fuel treatment followed by excavator 

piling. Alternative B (Proposed Action) treats 2169 acres in the urban interface, Alternative C 

treats 1522 acres in the urban interface, and the No Action Alternative contains no treatments 

and, therefore, would have no effect on fuel reduction. 

By treating the most acres in the urban interface, Alternative D would be the most effective 

alternative at reducing the intensity, spread, and potential for impacts to private lands by a future 

wildfire. 

One old growth character stand (undesignated effective old growth-UEFF), Unit 37, is proposed for 

treatment in Alternatives B and D through timber harvest and fuel reduction activities. The structure 

associated with this old growth character stand is at risk for reasons described in the vegetation 

section. Fuels treatments in this unit would consist of a limited harvest of the effected Douglas-fir 

bark beetle infested trees followed by some spot excavator piling, if needed, and pile burning. An 

underburn would complete the treatments in this stand to reintroduce fire to this fire-dependant 

ecosystem. This unit would retain its old growth characteristics as defined by Green and others 

1992, corrected 02/2005 following all proposed treatments. As a result of proposed management 

activities, fuel loadings conducive to stand-replacing wildfires that could consume old growth habitat 

would be reduced. 

Two old growth character stands (undesignated effective old growth – UEFF), Unit 41 and Unit 43, 

are proposed for Ecosystem Burning. These relatively open units would receive an underburn that 

would mimic the frequent low-intensity fires that historically maintained these areas. This treatment 

would also enhance big game forage production. These units would retain their old growth 

characteristics as defined by Green and others, 1992, corrected 02/2005. 

All action alternatives include the slashing, hand piling, and burning of the hand piles in Unit 17. 

Excavator piling is not acceptable in this unit due to its proximity to Fortine Creek. Unit 17 is being 

treated due to its high tree density, overall mortality in the lodgepole pine, downed fuel 

accumulations, excessive ladder fuels, and proximity to private land. 

 
Fire/Fuels

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-53 

Alternative D proposes five openings greater than 40 acres, Unit 12 (65 acres), Unit 32 (59 acres), 

Unit 35 (66 acres), Unit 47 (94 acres), and Unit 61 (80 acres) within the urban interface. Unit 12 has 

heavy fuel loadings due to root rot in Douglas-fir and high mortality due to the Douglas-fir bark 

beetle. The resulting stand in Unit 47 is due to a stand replacing fire in 1926. What is present in this 

stand today is an excess of stunted trees and overwhelming ladder fuels. Units 32, 35, and 61 have 

density levels of greater than 600 trees per acre that are less than five inches diameter as breast 

height (dbh). All of these proposed units are in jeopardy of fires that could potentially escape initial 

attack and become stand replacing fires due to the fuel loadings and ladder fuels. Adjacent areas 

may also be at risk due to these unhealthy stand conditions. Treatment of these stands would 

emulate natural processes associated with fire occurrence and be closer to desired conditions in size 

and effects. This treatment would reduce the fuel loadings and the corresponding risk for large-scale, 

high-intensity wildfires within the urban interface. 

Table 3-15. Acres of Fuel Reduction Treatments by Alternative within the Wildland Urban Interface 

Activity No Action 

Alternative 

Proposed Action 

Alternative B Alternative C Alternative D 

ETY/EP 0 478 356 451 

ETY/EP/UB 0 552 413 679 

R/UB 0 227 156 449 

R/EP 0 47 47 58 

EB 0 672 400 672 

FT/EP 0 139 139 139 

FT/EP/UB 0 43 0 43 

FT/HP 0 11 11 11 

Total Acres Treated 0 2169 1522 2502 

ETY/EP – Entire Tree Yarding followed by excavator piling and pile burning. 

ETY/EP/UB – Entire Tree Yarding followed by excavator piling and pile burning. A light underburn will 

occur within the next few years following previous treatment. 

R/UB – Regeneration harvest followed by underburning. 

R/EP – Regeneration harvest followed by excavator piling and pile burning. 

EB – Ecosystem burning with some minimal slashing possible to enhance fuel load prior to ignition. 

FT/EP – Fuel Treatment consisting of slashing followed by excavator piling and pile burning. 

FT/EP/UB – Fuel Treatment consisting of slashing followed by excavator piling and pile burning. The 

area would then receive a light underburn within a few years of previous treatment. 

FT/HP – Fuel Treatment consisting of slashing followed by hand piling and pile burning. 

B. Fuel Treatments outside the Wildland Urban Interface

The differences in effects among the action alternatives are relative to the number of acres of fuel 

treatment proposed by alternative. This is displayed in Table 3-16 below. 

Alternative D includes effective fuel treatment of approximately 215 acres outside of the urban 

interface; 168 of these acres would be treated by regeneration harvest followed by excavator piling 

and/or underburning. Alternative B (Proposed Action) proposes to treat 195 acres, and Alternative 

C proposes to treat 175 acres. 

By treating the most acres, Alternative D would be the most effective alternative at reducing the 

intensity and spread of a future wildfire on lands outside the urban interface. 

Alternative D proposes one opening greater than 40 acres, Unit 13 (58 acres) outside the urban 

interface. Unit 13 exhibits a high density of trees per acre, a high infestation of root rot in the 

Douglas-fir, and a high amount of Douglas-fir bark beetle effected trees throughout. Treatment of this 

stand would emulate natural processes associated with fire occurrence and be closer to desired 

conditions in size and effects. This treatment would reduce the risk of a stand replacement fire 

outside the urban interface. 
Chapter 3

3-54 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Table 3-16. Acres of Fuel Reduction Treatments by Alternative outside the Wildland Urban Interface 

Activity No Action 

Alternative 

Proposed Action 

Alternative B Alternative C Alternative D 

ETY/EP 0 0 0 0 

ETY/EP/UB 0 32 32 0 

R/UB 0 102 82 122 

R/EP 0 14 14 46 

EB 0 47 47 47 

FT/EP 0 0 0 0 

FT/EP/UB 0 0 0 0 

Total Acres Treated 0 195 175 215 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

There are no fuel reduction activities proposed in this alternative. The effect of no action would be 

increasing accumulations of surface fuels resulting in greater fire intensities, greater potential 

spotting, greater resistance to control, and greater risk to fire suppression resources. This gradual 

increase over time would be due to disease, decadence, and natural events such as wind and insect 

infestation. Continued growth of the understory would increase the likelihood that ignitions that do 

occur would have the potential to transition from a surface fire to the timber canopy. Fire behavior 

that is more intense than historic fire behavior is expected to have detrimental effects on vegetation 

and soils. Resistance to control under this alternative would be greater than alternatives in which 

fuels are treated. Heavy down fuels would contribute to increased fire intensities, spotting potential, 

receptive fuels for firebrands, and extreme fire behavior occurrence, all of which create less safe 

firefighting conditions. 

The young regenerated stands that exist from past harvest and associated fuel treatment within the 

analysis area would experience a mixture of fire intensities and severities, with stand-replacing fires 

along the edges adjacent to stands with heavy fuels and spottier underburns in the middle of the 

units. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Fire/Fuels Project File, considers and describes 

proposed activities in addition to the past, current and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in 

Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on fuel conditions are 

not included in this section. Those activities that cumulatively affect the fuel conditions are discussed 

below. 

Vegetation Management – Cumulatively, regeneration and intermediate harvest and fuels treatment 

with manipulation techniques would continue to reduce fuels and the associated risk of wildland fire 

within and outside the wildland urban interface. These stands would be more resistant to insects and 

disease and be able to better withstand low-to-moderate intensity wildfires over time. The overall 

cumulative trend would be a continued improvement in forest health conditions as management 

moves stands toward desired future conditions. 

Vegetation Management through fuels treatments would provide for a safer environment in which 

wildland firefighters can go about suppressing the inevitable wildland fires. By taking out the ladder 

fuels, opening up the canopy, and reducing the downed fuel loads in the warm/dry VRU’s, wildland 

fire has a better chance of staying on the forest floor and burning with less intensity, less rate of 

spread, lower flame lengths, and has a lower chance of exhibiting extreme fire behavior. 

Pre-commercial thinning is scheduled in the Trego Analysis Area. This would help create healthy 

vigorous stands of trees composed of a desirable mixture of tree species. These stands would be 

able to better withstand low-to-moderate intensity wildland fires over time. Salvage of blown down 

trees may occur within the analysis area through the Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage Decision Notice 
Fire/Fuels

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-55 

(USDA Forest Service, 1998c). Treatments may be applied to an estimated 3-5 acres in any year. 

These small sales would reduce fuels in small areas of the analysis area. 

Fire Suppression - The exclusion of wildfires from stands that are historically dependent upon 

wildfire will contribute to an increase in fuel loading. Dead and down fuels will continue to 

accumulate, and will allow vigorous undergrowth of small tree thickets, which will provide ladder fuels 

that could accelerate initiation of major crown fires in forest stands. Fire suppression activities will 

have a cumulative effect on increasing fuel loading. 

Firewood cutting has an annual effect on forests within 200 feet of roads open yearlong and 

seasonally. Larch and Douglas-fir are the preferred species; however, due to the high demand and 

scarcity of available cutting area, lodgepole pine and other dead species are removed. This activity 

has the potential to reduce coarse downed woody material, snags, and fuel up to 200 feet from 

roads. It is difficult to know how many acres within the Trego Area have been affected by this activity. 

Firewood cutting would continue to occur near open roads. 

Private land development has been occurring for the last century in the analysis area; however, it 

has been most active in the last two decades. Private inholdings have been subdivided and sold in 

the recent past. It is anticipated that this process would continue. The vegetative conditions on 

private land are highly variable and range from grassland to dense old forest. The effect of private 

land development has been to convert some forested land to low-density forest or grasslands and 

roads. In most cases, the desire of the landowners has been to maintain a forested setting in the 

immediate vicinity of dwellings and structures that is contiguous with forested public lands. 

As stated above, fuel hazards would be further reduced within and outside the wildland urban 

interface areas for the action alternatives. The threat of wildfire on National Forest land moving onto 

private lands would be decreased, and there would also be a reduction in the potential for extreme 

fire behavior. As a result, increased protection from high intensity wildfires would be provided to 

private residences. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

Forest-wide objectives for fire protection and fuels management are 1) to minimize the number of 

acres lost to damaging wildfire, and 2) to treat both activity fuels and natural vegetation to the degree 

needed to facilitate implementation of the fire protection program and other dependent activities of 

the Forest Plan. The Forest-wide management direction goals include the protection of Forest users, 

property, and resources from wildfire. It also includes the use of prescribed fire to simulate natural 

ecological processes, prevent excessive fuel buildups, create habitat diversity for wildlife, reduce 

suppression costs, and maintain ecosystems (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, II-3, II-11). Without 

prescribed fire, the Forest Plan goal of simulating natural ecological processes, creating habitat 

diversity for wildlife, and maintaining ecosystems would not be realized. All but the No Action 

Alternative use fuel reduction techniques. The No Action Alternative, therefore, would not be 

consistent with the goals set forth in the Kootenai Forest Plan. 
Chapter 3 

3-56 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

AIR QUALITY 

The majority of legal entities in Montana (including the Forest Service) which create particulates as a 

result of their burning activities have formed the Montana/Idaho State Airshed Group. Through a 

Memorandum of Understanding with the Montana Air Quality Bureau, this group established a 

smoke monitoring system that provides daily air quality predictions and air quality restrictions to its 

members. The Montana Air Quality Bureau issues an annual burn permit to the Forest Service. 

Issuance of this permit is based on participation and compliance with burning restrictions set by the 

Montana Airshed Group. 

All prescribed burning implemented within the analysis area will comply with the State Requirements 

of the State Implementation Plan and the Smoke Management Plan (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, 

p. II-26). Prescribed burning is reported to the Airshed Coordinator on a daily basis. If ventilation 

problems are forecast by the monitoring unit, prescribed burning is either restricted by elevation or 

curtailed until good ventilation exists. 

Analysis Area 

The Trego Analysis Area is located south of the community of Trego, Montana. The State of 

Montana is divided into 10 airsheds according to the Montana State Air Quality Bureau. The majority 

of the Trego Analysis Area is in Airshed One with the portion of the area which lies in Flathead 

County being part of Airshed Two. Most emissions from prescribed burning, wildfires, and dust within 

the analysis area are dispersed downwind in an East to Northeast direction by prevailing West and 

Southwest winds. Sensitive areas downwind (1-15 miles) include the communities of Fortine, Trego, 

Eureka, Stryker, and the Tobacco Plains area. There is a designated impact zone (area of special 

concern for particulate impacts) around the community of Eureka, approximately 15 miles to the 

north. These local areas would experience the major impact of the smoke from burning within the 

Trego Analysis Area. Most of the impact would be from the settling of smoke into the lower valley 

bottom areas during the night and early morning hours and would be of short duration. Glacier 

National Park, a Class I airshed, lies 30 miles to the east. Columbia Falls, Whitefish, and Kalispell, all 

nonattainment areas, are located 20-30 air miles to the southeast. 

Description of Measurement Indicators 

The combustion products of smoke from wildland fires and prescribed burning include carbon 

dioxide, water vapor, carbon monoxide, particulate matter, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and trace 

minerals. Federal and State ambient air quality standards have been established for particulate 

matter (PM), which is the pollutant of most concern from smoke. Specifically, particulate matter less 

than or equal to 10 micrometers in aerodynamic diameter (PM-10) is the size which can penetrate 

the inner recesses of the lungs, causing health problems. It is also the size that most severely 

impacts local and regional visibility. 

If a community does not meet or “attain” the National Ambient Air Quality Standards, it is designated 

as a non-attainment area and must demonstrate to the public and the Environmental Protection 

Agency how it will meet standards in the future. This demonstration is done through the State 

Implementation Plan. 

In July 1997, the EPA issued revised national air quality standards for ozone and particulate matter 

in the 2.5 micron class (PM-2.5). The EPA proposed the following implementation plan for the new 

standards, which took effect on September 18, 1998: 

• Nationwide fine particulate monitors in place. 

• States and EPA collect data from nationwide network. 

• States submit to EPA their State Implementation Plans (SIPs) describing how they’ll 

meet and enforce the new standards. 
Air Quality 

Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-57 

• States implement their Plan to assure they attain the standards. 

The current Federal and State standards are: 

PM 10: 1) the concentration of PM 10 must not exceed 150 micrograms per cubic meter over a 24-

hour period; or 2) the annual arithmetic average must not exceed 50 micrograms per cubic meter. 

PM 2.5: 1) the concentration of PM 2.5 must not exceed 65 micrograms per cubit meter over a 24-

hour period; or 2) the annual arithmetic average must not exceed 15 micrograms per cubic meter. 

Particulate Matter PM 10 and PM 2.5 monitors are located in Libby, Kalispell, Whitefish, Missoula, 

Helena, and several other sites in Montana. 

Affected Environment 

During the last two decades of the 20th century, natural fuels resulting from decades of fire 

suppression have reached a level where larger, more intense fires are becoming common. The 

degradation of air quality is a direct result of these wildland fires. 

Studies conducted by the Montana Health and Environmental Sciences Department have 

demonstrated that prescribed burning of logging slash, when burned in compliance with State 

regulations, is not a major contributor to reduced air quality in the Eureka and Libby areas. Source 

apportionment studies taken in Libby, a non-attainment area, have shown that slash burning 

contributes less than three percent of the total PM-10, with road dust and wood stove smoke being 

the major contributors. PM-10 readings taken in Libby since 1988 have shown a trend in improving 

air quality during the months of September through November when most of the prescribed burning 

takes place. The highest reading taken from monitors in Kalispell, another non-attainment area, was 

8.8 percent. The potential impacts of smoke from prescribed burning have been minimized through 

successful airshed coordination. 

Air quality monitoring in Eureka by the Montana Department of Health and Environmental Science 

has shown that air quality is fair to good and particulate levels are typically within the national 

standard of 150 micrograms/cubic meter. The monitoring unit was removed in 1992 since its data 

showed that Eureka did not have an air quality problem. This would indicate that the monitoring 

program operated by the Montana Airshed Group is working successfully to limit burning to times 

when good dispersal can occur. 

When the air quality monitoring equipment was in place, only once did the particulate levels in 

Eureka exceed the National standard of 150 micrograms/cubic meter between 1988 and 1991. This 

was due to the Dry Forks Wildfire which was burning on the Forest during September of 1988. This 

is indicative of the potential degradation in air quality that large-scale wildfires may cause. 

According to the Environmental Protection Agency's Report AP-42, Compilation of Air Pollution 

Emission Factors, some air pollution is generated by prescribed burning, although the net amount is 

believed to be a relatively smaller quantity than that produced by wildfires. The Environmental 

Protection Agency states in this report that "prescribed fire is a cost-effective and ecologically sound 

tool for forest, range, and wetland management. Its use reduces the potential for destructive wildfires 

and thus maintains long-term air quality." 

Montana has an open burning season which runs from March 1 through November 30. The State of 

Montana Department of Environmental Quality regulates all open burning in the state. To accomplish 

this, the Airshed Group has a monitoring unit consisting of meteorologists and technicians that use 

weather forecasts, balloon soundings, burning plans, and air quality conditions to determine, on a 

daily basis, the need for restrictions on prescribed burning. 

The monitoring unit operates throughout the year but is most active during the open burn season, 
Chapter 3 

3-58 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

issuing restrictions on burning due to air quality in the fall and recommendations for burning in the 

spring. Spring and summer months are generally considered excellent for smoke dispersal due to 

normal strong wind patterns. Fall months also have good to excellent dispersion due to air 

movement, though periods of air stagnation do occur and restrictions are issued. The winter months 

of December through February are closed to all open burning unless absolutely necessary due to the 

high occurrence of cold air inversions which result in poor smoke dispersal. Since the monitoring 

system only issues recommendations during the spring and summer months, restrictions are done 

voluntarily by the District or Forest if it appears that smoke from all sources has the potential to 

become an impact. 

Airshed 1 air quality is influenced predominantly by smoke and dust origninating from areas located 

to the west, since the general windflow direction for the area is from this direction. This includes 

grass burning on the Rathdrum and Palouse Prairies, located between Sandpoint and Lewiston, 

Idaho, as well as other agricultural areas in Washington and northern Oregon. Industrial emissions 

as well as those from internal combustion engines add to the level of regional haze and air pollution 

load. Prescribed burning of logging residue by private and other government entities adds wood 

smoke to the air mass. Wildland fires burning as far west as the coastal range of Oregon and 

Washington also contribute to air quality degradation. Dust, originating from tilled farm land during 

dry windy weather, can add to local haze and reduce air quality. 

Environmental Consequences 

Direct and indirect effects on the air quality resource are described below for proposed activities in 

Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered for all past, proposed, current, and reasonably 

foreseeable activities listed and described in Chapter 1 and are described at the end of this section. 

This analysis discloses the potential effects to air quality from implementing the proposed action or 

one of three alternatives, including a "no-action" alternative, to provide the decision maker with a 

means of comparing these alternatives. The analysis of both the "action" and "no-action” alternatives 

includes the effects of prescribed fire and wildland fire. 

Wildland fires are a natural combustion process that consume both living and dead vegetative 

material and produce smoke that can have adverse impacts on air quality. The size, intensity, and 

occurrence of wildland fires depend directly on variables such as meteorological conditions, the type 

of vegetation present, the moisture content of both live and dead fuel, topography, and the total 

weight of consumable material available. Small fuels such as dead grass and conifer needles 

support fire spread. Larger dead fuels are consumed to a variable extent depending on their 

moisture content. Under environmental conditions that reduce the moisture content of live fuels such 

as drought and extreme heat, these fuels may also be consumed. Slope effects fire in much the 

same way wind does - the steeper the slope the greater the effect. The aspect of a slope influences 

the moisture content of fuels, with north and east aspects being relatively damp and south and west 

aspects being relatively dry. Under the extreme condition of heavy fuel loads, drought, and hot dry 

weather, nearly all forest fuels are available for consumption. The impacts to air quality vary by the 

amount of smoke produced, which varies with burning conditions. Large amounts of smoke are 

produced under extreme burning conditions. 

Smoke produced from the prescribed burning of timber harvest residue and natural fuels can have 

an adverse effect on air quality. The amount of smoke produced is influenced by the same factors 

that influence the amount of smoke produced by wildland fires. Increasing the utilization of submerchantable material can reduce the amount of fuel remaining after timber harvest and thus reduce 

the amount of smoke produced. The type and timing of burning as well as weather conditions 

influences the amount of smoke produced. 
Air Quality 

Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-59 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect Effects

A. Prescribed Burning Associated with Harvest Activity 

The estimated amount of smoke emissions produced by prescribed burning associated with the 

alternatives is portrayed in the following table. Smoke from fuel treatment is related to fuel loading. 

Existing fuel loading in timber harvest units is expected to range from 20 to 68 tons per acre. To 

best meet resource objectives, approximately 25 tons per acre of material 3 inches and greater in 

diameter would be left on-site for regeneration harvests. Average fuel loads consumed would be 

an estimated 30 tons per acre for harvest units and 10 tons per acre for non-harvest ecosystem 

burns. For harvest units in which slash would be disposed of by piling and for roadside fuel 

reduction units, a figure of 25 tons per acre was used. Smoke emission factors can be used to 

predict PM 2.5 and PM 10 particulate emissions released during slash disposal. This is displayed 

in Table 3-17 below. Worst-case scenario conditions for particulate calculations include estimates 

for particulates released during all phases of combustion. The project file contains the calculations 

used to develop these estimates. 

Table 3-17. Particulate Amounts (Tons Per Acre) Produced by Prescribed Burning Associated with All 

Activities

Alternative 

Underburns 

/Harvest 

(Acres) 

Excavator 

Piles 

(Acres 

Burned) 

Underburns 

(Acres-Post 

Pile 

Burning) 

Ecosystem

Burns 

(Acres) 

Total 

Acres 

Particulate 

Totals 

Totals for 

Alternatives 

Alternative 

B 

 (Acres) 

329 1305 627 730 2991 

PM 2.5 93 176 31 37 337 722 

PM 10 101 202 38 44 385 

Alternative 

C 

 (Acres)

238 1001 445 458 2142 

PM 2.5 67 135 22 23 247 529 

PM 10 73 155 27 27 282 

Alternative 

D 

 (Acres)

571 1416 722 730 3439 

PM 2.5 161 191 36 37 425 907 

PM 10 176 219 43 44 482 

The effects of prescribed burning for each action alternative are directly related to the acres of 

timber removed and the amount of associated activities that would take place. The effects of 

smoke from prescribed burning are reduced visibility and increased levels of small diameter 

particulates, specifically PM 2.5 and PM 10. These are of concern for human health reasons, 

particularly PM 2.5 which is smaller and tends to be inhaled deeper into the lungs where it is much 

harder to expel. Much of the PM 10 particles which are inhaled are trapped in the mucus 

membranes of the nose and throat. 

Fire intensities, fuel moisture levels, and utilization of the flaming phase of combustion would all be 

monitored and used to reduce particulate production and airshed impact. By burning under 

optimum conditions, particulate amounts would be drastically reduced as compared to amounts 

generated by a wildland fire of the same acreage. PM 2.5 and PM 10 levels would rapidly disperse 

as they are carried by local and general winds. 

All action alternatives would generate PM 2.5s and PM 10s, with Alternative D producing the most 

and Alternative C producing the least. Amounts of particulates are directly proportionate to the 

amount of acres treated and to the treatment methods used. As the table shows, the higher the 
Chapter 3 

3-60 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

amount of excavator piling, the higher the particulate amounts released due to time spent in 

smoldering combustion phase. These amounts can be reduced by timing ignition of piles to coincide 

with periods of optimum fuel curing. 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

There would be no effects to the air quality or human health from the No Action Alternative as no 

prescribed burning activities would be implemented. Reduced visibility and small diameter 

particulates would not be produced. Decadent stands with downed material combined with ladder 

fuels from the developing shade-tolerant understory not treated through mechanical treatments and 

prescribed burning would act as a fuel source for a wildfire. Smoke from wildfires is unmanageable 

and would likely produce smoke in intensity and duration much greater than what would be produced 

from planned ignitions in any of the action alternatives. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

B. Wildland Fire 

For analysis purposes, we assumed that all the acres proposed for timber harvest/fuel treatment 

are burned by intense, stand-replacing wildland fire. Stand-replacement fire would produce the 

highest volume of particulates; therefore, it is used here as a worst-case scenario. In doing this, a 

basis for comparing the potential air quality impacts of wildland fire to the potential impacts of 

management activities is derived. The following table displays these estimates. A value of 50 tons 

per acre was used for fuel consumed in this exercise. Be aware that this is not an attempt to depict 

reality, but merely an analysis for comparison purposes. 

Table 3-18. Particulate Amounts Produced by Wildland Fire 

Alternative Acres PM 2.5 in Tons PM 10 in Tons Totals 

Alternative B 2364 1596 1773 3369 

Alternative C 1697 1145 1273 2418 

Alternative D 2717 1834 2038 3872 

The potential amount of smoke produced would vary by alternative and would be proportionate to 

the amount of fuel hazard reduction resulting from each alternative. The greatest degree of 

reduction of wildland fire potential through fuel hazard reduction would occur from the 

implementation of Alternative D, while the least amount would occur with Alternative C.

The comparison of relative impacts of implementing an action alternative versus a standreplacement wildland fire indicates that, on an acre-to-acre basis, an action alternative would 

produce 77 percent less than the smoke impacts of an intense wildland fire affecting the same 

area. 

Effects of wildland fire smoke on air quality resulting from implementing one of the action 

alternatives would be that, over time, as vegetation recovers in response to both the burning and 

the increase in available sunlight, the fire potential on treated acres would increase from the 

immediate post-burn level. The potential spread of fire would increase, but the intensity and smoke 

production would generally decrease from the current situation. 
Air Quality 

Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-61 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Effects of wildland fire smoke on air quality from implementing the No Action Alternative is that fire 

occurrence, intensity, and size would be similar to fires in the recent past. Historic records from the 

past 37 years show that, on average, one fire occurs within the analysis area every year. These fires 

are generally small, burning less than one acre each due to fire suppression. However, there is an 

increasing probability that one of these fires would escape initial attack and grow to several hundred 

to several thousand acres, burning for several days to several weeks. The Butcher Creek #2 Fire, 

within the Trego Analysis Area started on August 4, 1970 and grew to 120 acres. Fires of this scale 

and duration would impact air quality to varying degrees during the time the fire would be active. 

Additional effects of wildland fire smoke from implementing the No Action Alternative would be the 

gradual change in the existing fuel complexes as dead woody fuels accumulate secondary to insect, 

disease, and weather disturbance. Live fuels, especially ladder fuels, would also increase over time 

as stand density increases and understory shade-tolerant species increase. As the fuel loadings 

increase, the incidence and intensity of wildland fires, and the smoke they produce, would increase. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Air Quality Project File, considers and describes 

proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in 

Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively affect air quality are discussed below. 

Vegetation Management - The cumulative effects on air quality of prescribed burning smoke 

produced as a result of the implementation of one of the action alternatives would result in an 

incremental decrease in air quality as PM 2.5 and PM 10 particulates from this source are combined 

with other particulates from local and regional sources located upwind. Prescribed burning of logging 

slash on other federal and state land would also contribute particulates. 

General wind patterns may cause smoke to drift into Glacier National Park and the Flathead Valley. 

Visibility may be temporarily reduced while prevailing weather influences mix and disperse smoke. 

The condition can also produce visual benefits such as vivid sunsets and sunrises. Effects would be 

minimized in the spring because of fewer park and forest visitors, higher fuel moistures (less 

emissions), better smoke dispersion, and reduced impacts from other PM 10 producing activities. 

Fire Suppression -The cumulative effects of wildland fire smoke on air quality would include all 

pollution sources contributing particulates to the air mass in addition to the smoke produced by 

wildland fires within the analysis area. The greatest cumulative effect would occur when wildland 

fires are burning outside and upwind of the analysis area and wildland fires within the analysis area 

burn at the same time. The cumulative effect of these sources could result in extended periods of 

poor air quality. 

Private Land Development - Smoke associated with burning on private land can also be expected 

to occur. While the District has no control over burning that takes place on private land, the 

conditions resulting from these sources would be taken into effect when determining whether to 

ignite proposed burns. 

Road Activity - The cumulative effects on air quality of road activities such as road blading and 

brushing produced as a result of the implementation of one of the action alternatives would result in 

an incremental decrease in air quality as PM 2.5 and PM 10 particulates. Other vehicle traffic and 

industrial sources such as the mainline of the Burlington Northern Railroad within the analysis area 

would also contribute to the cumulative particulate loading. 

Fugitive Road Dust – Fugitive dust is the result of motorized vehicle use when road surfaces are 

dry. When a motorized vehicle travels on an unpaved road, the force of the wheels moving across 
Chapter 3 

3-62 Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

the road surface causes pulverization of surface material. Dust is lofted by the rolling wheels as well 

as by the turbulence caused by the vehicle itself. This air turbulence can persist for a time after the 

vehicle passes. 

The moisture content of the road surface has the greatest influence on the amount of fugitive dust 

produced. Within the Trego Analysis Area, roads are generally closed by snow during the winter 

months. July, August, and September are generally dry so most dust production would occur during 

this period. Precipitation does fall during these months, but is usually limited so it would only reduce 

dust production. Depending on weather following these rains, dust levels can be expected to return 

to pre-rain levels within three to seven days. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

The Forest-wide objectives for air quality are 1) to maintain excellent air quality on the Forest and 

protect local and regional air quality by cooperating with the Montana Air Quality Bureau in the 

Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) program and State Implementation Plan (SIP). 

Requirements of PSD and SIP and the Montana Smoke Management Plan would be met, and 2) to 

prevent long-term deterioration of the air quality, classified as Class I for Glacier National Park and 

Class II for the rest of the Forest. 

The Montana/Idaho State Airshed Group regulates smoke management for air quality. The Kootenai 

National Forest coordinates and schedules burning activities to maintain air quality. Prescribed burn 

plans describing how and under what conditions the burning would take place are prepared by 

qualified personnel for all burning activities. All activities under the proposed action would be 

consistent with the Forest Plan. 

By participating in the Montana State Airshed Group, complying with the Memorandum of 

Understanding with the Montana Air Quality Bureau, and meeting the requirements of the State 

Implementation Plan and Smoke Management Plan, the proposed activities would comply with the 

Forest Plan and the 1977 Clear Air Act. 
Water

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-63 

Water Resources 

This following discussion outlines the processes used for analysis and the results of that analysis for 

the physical aspects of the water resources in the Trego Analysis Area. The biological aspects of the 

water resource are addressed in the Fisheries Specialist Report. This paper is designed to guide the 

reader through the analysis used to determine reference and existing conditions of the analysis area. 

Analysis Area 

The analysis areas for water resources are the watersheds in which timber harvest, fuels reduction, 

road maintenance, and watershed rehabilitation activities are proposed. The analysis areas are 

shown in Map 3-5. Watershed boundaries are used as analysis boundaries. The analysis area varies 

for different portions of the analysis, as explained below. Throughout the discussion, the terms 

‘Analysis Areas’ and ‘Cumulative Effects Analysis Areas’ will be used, and refer to the areas defined 

here. 

Implementing projects in the Trego Analysis Area could result in direct and indirect effects to 

hydrologic features within each individual analysis area (watershed). Activities in adjacent 

watersheds would typically not affect each other; therefore, most parameters will be assessed within 

these boundaries. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS ANALYSIS AREAS 

As smaller streams flow together they become larger streams and the sum of their individual 

watersheds becomes a cumulative effects watershed or analysis area. Cumulative effects analysis 

areas combine the incremental effects (through time and space) of past, present, and reasonably 

foreseeable actions, whether individually measurable or not, with the additive nature of stream flow 

within a connected system. Cumulative effects can and are identified at multiples scales – larger 

groupings of watersheds. There are two mid level cumulative effects (CE) analysis areas identified 

within the Trego Analysis Area; the Lime/Magnesia CE and the Jim/Stewart CE (refer to Map 3-6). 

The large scale cumulative effects area, the Trego CE, includes Trego, Fortine, Swamp, and portions 

of the Meadow Analysis Areas (refer to Map 3-6). 

In general, a cumulative effects boundary is adequate when all upstream activities are included and 

the downstream effects of an action are not discernable at the downstream boundary. At a larger 

scale, the Trego CE is expected to be the point at which effects are no longer discernable. 

With the exception of Brimstone Creek, the streams in the Trego Analysis Area flow into Fortine 

Creek; the cumulative effects analysis will consider all activities contributing to the condition of 

Fortine Creek at the most downstream point of influence of the Trego Analysis Area (Refer to Map 3-

6) Brimstone Creek flows out of the Trego Analysis Area to the north, infiltrates, emerges as springs 

at Ant Flat, and eventually flows into Fortine Creek near the town of Fortine. Because Brimstone 

infiltrates before reaching Fortine Creek, the analysis area is not defined by this confluence, but 

rather by the area directly adjacent to Fortine Creek. 

If analysis indicators (for this analysis, PFI and stream channel processes) are strongly affected by 

the project at the downstream analysis boundary, the cumulative effects analysis would be extended 

downstream, until the effects of this project are not discernable. 

Temporal Context of Analysis 

All effects will be analyzed with a short-term view of their impacts on watershed processes 

(immediate to a century) in order to focus the analysis and more clearly contrast the alternatives. 

Long-term watershed processes (century and longer) are highly variable in nature and largely 

speculative in terms of quantifying effects. Large fires, major floods, and extreme episodes of bank 

instability and sediment movement are normal in the long-term (Benda et al. 1998). The magnitude 
Chapter 3

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3-64 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

of these types of events far overshadows the potential effects of this project proposal. It is not within 

this context that we seek to analyze project impacts, but rather within the context of our desired 

conditions in the watershed – stable banks, healthy riparian and aquatic habitat, and attainment of 

full support of all designated beneficial uses. 

Affected Environment 

Existing condition is the result of past management activities and natural events that occurred in the 

analysis area. These activities and events provide baseline conditions for the affected environment in 

the analysis area. 

Approximately ninety miles of streams occur within the geographic boundaries of the Trego Analysis 

Area (Refer to Map 3-5). Marshes and wetlands are found scattered throughout. Stream surveys 

were conducted during the 2003, 2004, and 2005 field seasons, providing the data required for 

determining the existing hydrological condition within the analysis area. Summaries of the data 

supporting the information contained in this document can be found in the Soil and Water Project 

File. Field data sheets for the above mentioned surveys can be found at the Murphy Lake Ranger 

Station in Fortine, Montana. 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS 

Existing condition is the result of past management activities (road construction, timber harvest and 

prescribed burning) and natural events (wildfire) that occurred in the analysis area. These activities 

and events provide baseline conditions for the affected environment in the analysis area. 

Direct and indirect effects on aquatic resources are described below for proposed activities identified 

in Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered for all past, proposed, current, and reasonably 

foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1. 

No significant aquatic issues were identified for Water Resources during the scoping process. 

Therefore, law, regulation, and policy drive the effects analysis. Resource issues and effects will be 

presented in the following categories: 

• Compliance with the Clean Water Act and Protection of Beneficial Uses 

• Compliance with Protection of Riparian and Wetland Areas. 

ISSUE 1. COMPLIANCE with the CLEAN WATER ACT/PROTECTION of BENEFICIAL USES 

Section 101 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) states that its objective is to “restore and maintain the 

chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the Nation’s waters.” To accomplish this, the US 

Environmental Protection Agency encourages a holistic, watershed-based approach that places 

equal emphasis on protecting healthy streams and restoring impaired ones. 

The CWA requires States to identify beneficial uses of waterbodies. The State of Montana has 

classified the streams in the Trego Analysis Area as B-1 waters (Administrative Rules of Montana 

[ARM] 16.20.6060). The complete list of beneficial uses in B-1 streams and the associated water 

quality standards can be found in the Soil and Water Project File. The designated beneficial uses in 

the analysis area are: drinking, culinary, and food processing after conventional treatment; bathing, 

swimming, and recreation; growth and propagation of salmonid fishes and associated aquatic life, 

waterfowl, and furbearers; and agricultural and industrial water supply. 

The CWA also requires states to identify waterbodies they believe are not meeting water quality 

standards and are at risk of not supporting their designated beneficial uses. These waterbodies are 

called Water Quality Limited Segments (WQLS). There are two WQLS waterbodies within the Trego 

Analysis Area - Fortine Creek. The entire analysis area falls within the watershed of the Fortine 

Creek WQLS. The beneficial use concerns for each segment are identified in Table 3-19. 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-65 

Table 3-19. Water Quality Limited Segments in the Fortine Analysis Area1 

Listed Stream 

Segment Beneficial Use Support Status Pollutant of Concern Source of Pollutant 

Fortine Creek Aquatic Life Support (Partial) 

Cold Water Fishery (Partial) 

Other Habitat Alterations 

Siltation 

Agriculture; Channelization; 

Highway/Roads/Bridges; 

Silviculture 

Lime Creek Aquatic Life Support (Partial) 

Cold Water Fishery (Partial) 

Other Habitat Alterations 

Pathogens 

Siltation 

Agriculture 

1 Information in this table was taken from the 1996 303(d) List. 

In a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the State of Montana and the Forest Service, 

the Forest Service is designated as the management agency responsible for water quality protection 

on National Forest System lands. 

A. Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL), including a Water Quality Restoration Plan, is currently being 

developed for all listed segments in the Tobacco River watershed, which includes Fortine Creek. The 

State Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is taking the lead, working in cooperation with the 

Kootenai River Network, the Kootenai National Forest, and private consultants to develop the TMDL. 

The document is scheduled to be completed by 2006. The role of the Forest Service in this process 

is to provide monitoring and land use data, assist with data analysis, and participate on the technical 

team that will make decisions about the monitoring parameters and target values that would 

constitute full support of beneficial uses. 

Sediment, particularly fine sediment, is the pollutant of concern in Fortine Creek. Excess sediment in 

streams is a non-point source pollutant, defined as a pollutant with many diffuse sources. Non-point 

source pollutants can be best controlled through soil, water, and land management practices 

(including State Best Management Practices, known as BMPs). Best Management Practices focus 

on preventing erosion and the delivery of sediment to waterbodies. 

The quantity and fate of sediment in streams is related to a host of factors and processes. Each of 

the following will be considered in the discussion of protection of beneficial uses: 

1. Stream Flow (Peak Flow Increases) 

2. Water quality (sediment production potential as measured by changes in watershed 

road density, riparian road density, and stream crossings density) 

3. Stream Channel Processes 

These discussions will be followed by a summary of how the alternatives comply with the CWA and 

support beneficial uses. 

1. Stream Flow

Stream flow will be discussed in terms of both flow quantity and timing. Increases in water yield can 

affect both peak flows and base flows. Peak flow increases (PFIs) resulting from forest management 

activities are important because peak flows provide the maximum energy for erosion, transport, and 

deposition of sediment in stream channels. 

Management actions influence water yield through the compaction and disturbance of soils and 

removal of vegetation. The Resource Enhancement Projects presented in Chapter 2 would not affect 
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3-66 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

water yield. This analysis of water yield will discuss the effects of vegetation removal and soil 

compaction from timber harvest and road construction. 

A common hydrologic response to timber harvest is an increase in the total water yield generated 

during spring snowmelt or rainfall events. The increase in spring runoff can lead to adverse 

hydrologic responses, depending on the magnitude of the increase, the stream type, and channel 

condition. In northwest Montana, increases in peak flows are primarily due to modifications in snow 

accumulation, snowmelt runoff, and changes in evapotranspiration rates (USDA Forest Service, 

1973). These increases are then modified by components of the transportation network (roads and 

crossings) that interrupt normal runoff patterns. Baseflows can be affected by increases in 

groundwater supply that result in increased subsurface flow to channels later in the summer. 

Spring peak flows in the analysis area normally occur during the months of May or June (Hoffman, 

1993), but high flows can occur throughout the year in response to precipitation events. The timing, 

magnitude, and duration of runoff events may be changed when vegetation is manipulated by 

management activities or altered by natural disturbances. The compacted soils associated with 

roads can act as sources of overland flow and can also intercept groundwater and convert it to 

surface flow. Roads and corresponding ditches, if not properly drained, can extend the stream 

channel network, increasing the drainage efficiency of the watershed and resulting in higher and/or 

more prolonged peak flows. 

The R1 Water and Sediment Yield Model (R1-WATSED) is used to predict existing and expected 

conditions of watersheds from logging, fire, and roads. It was designed to simulate the effects of 

natural disturbances and land management activities on water yields and peak flows. At this time the 

sediment-side of the Model is not used on the KNF due to limited validation information. R1-

WATSED provides information on average annual conditions before management and after 

management for specific drainage areas within the watershed of concern. 

R1-WATSED begins by estimating the average annual water yield for a given watershed in its 

natural condition. R1-WATSED assumes a fully forested watershed. These calculations use 

precipitation in inches by landtype, hydrologic regime (reflected through a representative gauged 

stream), and a natural runoff function (precipitation to annual discharge conversion) to produce acrefeet of average annual water yield. R1-WATSED uses this estimated natural runoff and the existing 

computed disturbed areas (equivalent clearcut area [ECA], roaded and other disturbed acreage) to 

determine the total water yield increase. Second, R1-WATSED uses an Average Water Yield 

Increase Factor to estimate increases in runoff due to future management and/or fire. This factor 

expresses changes in evapotranspiration, interception, and snow accumulation and storage resulting 

from activities in the drainage. In addition, R1-WATSED uses an equation that is based on 

reductions of infiltration due to roads and increased drainage efficiency, to determine the runoff 

increases resulting from new roads. Logarithmic curves, based on habitat type groups, are then used 

to determine the vegetative/hydrologic recovery following logging, site preparation and fire activities. 

Lastly, R1-WATSED uses this recovery rate in conjunction with the above information to aide in the 

determination of the yearly water yield increase. 

R1-WATSED was not designed, nor is it used, to develop exact estimates of flow. The utility of the 

model is that it gives us a consistent method of comparing alternatives. The values generated by the 

model are used, in concert with other water resource information, to interpret the potential effects to 

a stream channel as a result of implementing a proposed land management activity. Values 

generated by the model are not to be considered as an absolute measure against verifiable 

standards, nor by themselves provide an answer as to the effects of implementing the proposed land 

management activity. 

The intent of the water yield analysis process is to protect beneficial uses from the potential effects of 

peak flow increases. Threshold-type water yield increase (WYI) numbers such as those identified in 

the KNF Forest Plan (Appendix 18) and in subsequent support documents are to be used as "red 

flags", to indicate instances where the potential was high for channel (and beneficial use) damages 

from flows. The intent is that these "flag raisings" would either result in more extensive field reviews 
Water

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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-67 

that would ultimately result in either modifications or mitigation; or for instances where we either did 

not or could not take the time to do this, we would back off on the activity until we met the criteria. 

Conditions of the Model requiring additional evaluation and documentation include episodic climatic 

events such as rain-on-snow, high intensity thunderstorms, saturation caused mass soil movement, 

or shorter-duration peak flow events (majority of these are not prevalent in the analysis area – refer 

to existing condition above). Analysis of these, where needed, must be done outside of model. Refer 

to the Soil and Water Project File for additional information on R1-WATSED. 

Table 3-20 displays the WATSED modeled PFIs associated with each alternative, by watershed, and 

cumulative effects watershed in the analysis area. The watersheds are displayed on Map 3-5. 

Table 3-20. Changes in Water Yield by Alternative 

2005 Post Harvest - 2006 Drainage Existing PFI Alt A PFI Alt B PFI Alt C PFI Alt D PFI 

Upper Brimstone 9 8 10 10 12 

Magnesia 13 12 13 13 14 

Upper Lime 10 10 11 11 12 

Lower Lime 14 14 14 14 14 

Lime/Magnesia CE1 12 12 13 13 13 

Upper Jim 8 8 8 8 8 

Jim Creek Tributary 6 6 9 7 9 

Lower Jim 10 9 11 11 12 

Stewart 14 13 14 14 14 

Jim/Stewart CE1 10 10 11 11 12 

Butcher 9 9 9 9 11 

Trego CE1 13 13 13 13 13 1 CE = Cumulative Effects watershed. 

The numbers presented in Table 3-20 assume that all proposed harvest would occur in 2006 with the 

exception of Units 23 and 42 in Alternative D, which would be deferred until October 2007 or later to 

avoid creating peak flow increases above desired levels. In reality, all or most of the harvest would 

not be implemented in the same year and generally the effects to stream flow would be expected to 

be less than those discussed. For additional analysis with regard to stream flow and PFIs refer to the 

Soil and Water Project File. 

EFFECTS OF ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES ON STREAM FLOW 

There are no cases in Table 3-20 where modeled PFIs exceed Forest Plan direction. Because the 

recommended PFIs were designed to prevent negative impacts to stream channel processes and 

beneficial uses, no such impacts would result from implementation of any action alternative. 

Alternatives B and C would increase PFIs slightly above existing levels. Alternative D would 

increase peak flows slightly more than Alternatives B and C. PFIs range from 0 to 3 percent. These 

levels of PFIs are not expected to initiate adverse channel changes. 

There is very little difference between the action alternatives from a stream flow perspective. All 

Action Alternatives meet Forest Plan Standards for PFIs and are expected to maintain beneficial 

uses at current levels. 

EFFECTS OF THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE ON STREAM FLOW 

Alternative A would result in no increases in PFIs. In some instances PFIs would be lower under 

Alternative A than under the 2005 Existing PFI. This is due to recovery from past disturbances and 

because no additional harvest taking place between the existing condition model run in 2005 and the 

alternative model run in 2006. 2006 would be the earliest any harvest would take place in the 

analysis area. This alternative meets Forest Plan direction for PFIs and is expected to maintain 

beneficial uses at current levels. 
Chapter 3

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3-68 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

2. Water Quality

Timber harvest activities have the potential to create soil disturbance and increase overland flow, 

resulting in soil erosion and sediment delivery to streams. Research has shown that the level of 

sediment production resulting from timber harvest is dependent on the level of planning and attention 

to site-specific conditions (Chamberlin et al., 1991). Each harvest unit in each alternative has been 

individually planned and would have site-specific BMPs (Appendix B) and Design Criteria (Table 2-

10 applied in order to minimize sediment production. 

Watershed improvement projects, such as road drainage improvements, are not proposed as 

mitigation for timber harvest activities, but as measures to improve water quality and support of 

beneficial uses in the analysis area. Timber harvest activities were designed to protect beneficial 

uses without required mitigation. This is explained more fully in the sections “The Need for Water 

Quality Improvement” and the resulting effects analyses below. 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES ON WATER QUALITY 

All harvest and fuels treatment activities would be conducted with strict adherence to applicable 

BMPs. These measures, combined with specified Design Criteria and adherence to INFS Standards 

and Guidelines within RHCAs (USDA Forest Service, 1995b), are fully expected to prevent negative 

impacts on water quality or beneficial uses. Studies of erosion and sediment transport in harvest 

units have shown that application of BMPs, including installing skid trail drainage and designating 

riparian buffers, results in sediment retention within the harvest unit and riparian buffer (Croke et al., 

1999; Wallbrink and Croke, 2002) and adequately protect streams from sediment introduction. 

District and Forest reviews of BMP implementation and effectiveness support these findings (USDA 

Forest Service, 2002). 

The Need for Water Quality Improvement 

This project is designed to manage for stable stream channels and water quality that meets or 

exceeds State of Montana water quality standards. The ultimate goal is to improve or maintain 

conditions in analysis area streams so they fully support all their beneficial uses. 

Non-point sources of pollution are the primary causes of degraded water quality in the analysis area. 

For over 25 years, studies have shown that roads are often the highest contributors of non-point 

source sediment in forested areas (Brooks et al., 1997; Luce and Wemple, 2001), and impact 

aquatic habitat (Furniss et al., 1991). A study on the Kootenai NF found that fine sediment in 

channels correlated with road density (MacDonald et al., 1997). The past construction and 

maintenance (or lack of) is reflected in the existing condition of each road. 

The effects of roads on aquatic systems can be minimized once the interactions of water, soil, 

vegetation, and topography are understood. Roads are essentially corridors of compacted soil that 

act as sources of overland flow. Roads can intercept groundwater and convert it to surface flow. 

Water flowing on roads often picks up and carries sediment, which is readily available on 

unvegetated native road surfaces. Where roads cross streams, this sediment laden water can be 

delivered to the stream channel. A single road surface gully that forms can contribute large amounts 

of road-derived sediment to an ephemeral channel. The probability of these types of failures is 

difficult to predict. Reducing the likelihood of their occurrence protects both the roads and the 

connected aquatic environment. Ditch relief culverts in riparian areas can also deliver water and 

sediment if they carry enough water to scour a channel that eventually connects to a stream. Overall, 

improperly drained or located roads can accelerate erosion rates and increase sedimentation in 

streams. 

Surface erosion is the primary process for accelerating erosion on roads. A basin-wide road 

inventory that targeted road conditions that may have cumulative effects on the aquatic environment 

(crossings, drainage, and ditch scour) was performed by an experienced team of Hydrologic 
Water

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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-69 

The WEPP Model was developed by the 

Agricultural Research Service with participation 

from the Forest Service and the Bureau of 

Land Management. The impetus for the 

development of the model was a need for a 

better erosion predictor than the often-used 

Universal Soil Loss Equation. WEPP is a 

complex process-based model with many 

parameters that can be set in order to model 

conditions as varied as flat agricultural fields 

and steep forested slopes. 

The Forest Service Rocky Mountain Research 

Station has created customized interfaces 

specifically for Forest Service applications, 

including one called WEPP Road that is 

tailored for modeling sediment yield from 

segments of forest roads. This interface and 

detailed documentation are available to the 

public on the Internet at: 

http://forest.moscowfsl.wsu.edu/fswepp/.

Technicians during the 2005 field season. These inventories show that the most common hydrologic 

concern in the analysis area is inadequate road surface drainage and ditch relief with evidence, in 

some cases, of resulting road surface erosion or ditch scour. In many places, water and sediment 

are being concentrated and routed to streams through the road network. Mass soil movement 

associated with roads is rare in the analysis area, but could occur due to culvert or road fill failure. 

Road improvement needs were identified through field surveys conducted by the Hydrology Crew 

and Transportation Planner (refer to Soil and Water, and Transportation Project Files). Road 

drainage improvement projects and road 

decommissioning opportunities have been analyzed 

using the Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP) 

Model. Addressing the identified areas would reduce 

the cumulative effects of roads on stream conditions. 

The results from the WEPP Road Model have been 

used to identify the stream crossings that will benefit 

the most from application of BMPs. Where timber 

harvest receipts will not pay for road BMP 

improvements, the crossings where BMP 

improvements are shown to achieve the greatest 

sediment reductions would receive priority for 

treatment as project funds become available. For a list 

of road conditions and proposed treatments by road 

number, see the Transportation Project File. 

A. Miles of Road Drainage Improvements

All action alternatives were designed to reduce the 

impacts that roads have on aquatic resources by 

identifying and treating sources and potential sources 

of road-associated sediment. Treatments would include drainage improvements (BMP upgrades) on 

roads and decommissioning of unneeded roads. 

Road drainage improvements (BMPs) would focus on preventing water and sediment from the road 

network from entering streams. The primary methods for accomplishing this would be improvements 

to road surface and ditch drainage, surfacing, and modifying stream crossings (Furniss et al., 1991). 

These activities fall under the definition of road maintenance. Maintenance activities contractually 

required under timber sales would occur during or prior to harvest and would be inspected after 

harvest to ensure they still meet specifications. Table 3-21 displays the miles of road maintenance 

for each alternative required under the timber sale contract. 

Table 3-21. Contractual Timber Sale Fund Road Maintenance by Alternative 

Timber Sale Funded Activities Alternative A Alternative B Alternative C Alternative D 

Miles of Road Maintenance 0 46 46 48 

Stream Crossings Improved 0 15 15 16 

Modeled Sediment Reduction 0 51% 51% 61% 

EFFECTS OF ROAD DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

ON WATER QUALITY 

Contractually required road drainage improvements would result in similar effects under all action 

alternatives (Alternatives B, C, and D). The drainage improvements that are contractually required 

under timber sales would occur in conjunction with the sales. This work is assured and the timing 

would be tied to the timing of timber sales, distributed over the next 10 years. Contractual road 
Chapter 3

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3-70 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

drainage improvements done with timber sales would be accomplished in a shorter timeframe since 

the timber sales would accomplish road work simultaneously, above and beyond what the Forest 

road maintenance budget could achieve in any given year. 

Preliminary modeling using the WEPP Road Model suggests that from 51 to 61 percent of the 

sediment contributed to channels at road crossings could be prevented by installing BMPs only on 

the roads used during timber sales in the analysis area. While these numbers are not meant to be 

interpreted literally, they do illustrate that the prominent sediment sources on roads can be identified 

and treatment of these areas would substantially reduce impacts to streams and riparian areas. 

Alternative D would have the greatest reduction in sediment from roads while Alternatives B and C

would be the same. All action alternatives are expected to maintain or improve beneficial uses. 

EFFECTS OF THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE ON WATER QUALITY 

Alternative A (No Action) would implement no road drainage improvements. However, regular 

district road maintenance would continue. Over the 10-yr planning period, the condition of the roads 

would remain about the same as the existing condition. The effects of the roads on aquatic 

resources would remain about the same. Sediment-laden road drainage would continue to enter 

streams at 19 known locations. The risk of road erosion during large events would remain the same 

as the existing condition. 

B. Road Intermittent Stored Service and Decommissioning 

Studies have shown a correlation between sediment production and road length (Reid and Dunne, 

1984) and between fine bed particles and the number of road crossings (Schnackenberg and 

MacDonald, 1998). The terms ‘intermittent stored service’ and ‘decommissioning’ are road status 

terms – a road in ‘intermittent stored service’ would not be used for 10–20 years, while a 

‘decommissioned’ road would be removed from the road system with the intention of not using it as a 

road again. The techniques used for decommissioning and placing roads into storage are similar. 

Whether in storage or decommissioned, the roads would be barricaded to prevent motorized access. 

Other actions may include culvert removal, water bar installation, road surface ripping, woody debris 

placement, seeding, and fertilizing. Re-contouring may occur on some road segments and would be 

more likely to occur for decommissioning than for storage. Table 3-22 shows the miles of proposed 

road storage and decommissioning by alternative and source of funding. 

Table 3-22. Miles of Proposed Road Storage and Decommissioning by Funding Source 

Activity Alternative A Alternative B Alternative C Alternative D 

Storage – Timber Sale Contract 0 0 0 0 

Storage – other funding 0 .44 .44 .44 

Total Intermittent Stored Service 0 .44 .44 .44 

Decommissioning – Timber Sale 

Contract 0 .73 .39 .73 

Decommissioning – other funding 0 11.74 12.08 11.74 

Total Decommissioning 0 12.47 12.47 12.47 

Funding for road decommissioning would come from a combination of sources, which has an 

influence on the timing of implementation. Decommissioning of roads that would first be used for a 

timber sale would be completed under the sale contract. This work is assured and would commence 

after use of the road has been completed. KV funds may be used for roads that fall within timber 

sales but are not used during the sale. This work would also commence shortly after the use of the 

road has been completed. 

Other roads would be funded through sources that may include engineering, watershed 

improvement, or fish habitat improvement funds. These funding sources and the timing are not 

assured. The Kootenai NF has been committed to road decommissioning, and funding has generally 
Water

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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-71 

been available (refer to document titled “Decommissioning Record on the Fortine and Rexford 

Ranger Districts” in the Soil and Water Project File). The available funding is apportioned to projects 

across the Forest. The timing for work that requires appropriated funding is budget-dependent, but is 

not tied to the timing of harvest. This work would be accomplished as soon as funded after the 

Decision and would take at least one and possibly several years to complete. 

EFFECTS OF ROAD INTERMITTENT STORE SERVICE/DECOMMISSIONING COMMON TO ALL 

ACTION ALTERNATIVES ON WATER QUALITY 

If only contractually required road storage and decommissioning occurs, similar effects would result 

under all action alternatives (none would decommission more than 1 mile of road). The action 

alternatives differ slightly in funding sources, timing, and assurance of implementation. The storage 

and decommissioning that are contractually required under timber sales would occur in conjunction 

with the sales. This work is assured and the timing would be tied to the timing of timber sales, 

distributed over the next 10 years. The work requiring other funding is likely to occur, but funding is 

not assured. Because this work is not functioning as water quality mitigation for other elements of 

this project, the timing of this work as it relates to other actions is not crucial. The work would be 

accomplished in a shorter timeframe under the alternatives that use the most timber sale contract 

work, since the timber sales would accomplish roadwork simultaneously, above and beyond what the 

Forest budget could achieve in any given year. As shown in Table 3-22, Alternative B would utilize 

timber sale contracts for 0 miles of storage and 0.73 miles of decommissioning. Alternative C

would provide for 0 miles of storage and 0.39 miles of decommissioning, while Alternative D would 

assure 0 miles of storage and 0.73 miles of decommissioning with timber sale contracts. 

Additional work requiring other funding sources would occur as funding becomes available. If all 

work is fully funded and implemented, each of the action alternatives would put 0.44 miles of 

road into storage and decommission 12.47 miles of road (Refer to the Transportation Section for 

specific road numbers). 

Any road storage and decommissioning would cause some short-term sediment increases followed 

by long-term sediment reduction, as well as reduction of the risk of culvert and road failures that 

could introduce large quantities of sediment (refer to Soil and Water Project File Document “Short vs. 

Long Term Sediment”). The disturbance associated with water bar installation and road ripping 

would make more sediment available for transport into channels until the areas stabilize and 

vegetation becomes established. This is expected to take one to two years after the work is 

completed based on Hickenbottom’s Monitoring (2001) of road re-contouring on the Lolo National 

Forest. Wegner’s (1999) monitoring of culvert removals on live channels on the Kootenai NF 

indicates that increases in sediment are short-lived with total suspended sediment (TSS) resembling 

background levels within 48 hours of the completion of work. The sediment generated in this project 

would be minimized through the application of BMPs (Appendix B). In the long term, the chronic 

sediment contributions associated with these roads would cease. Wegner’s work (1999) also shows 

improvements in aquatic conditions, including decreases in fine sediment, increases in bull trout redd 

numbers, and beneficial trends in aquatic macroinvertebrate populations, following road upgrades 

and decommissioning. Road decommissioning, whether implemented in part or full, is expected to 

improve beneficial uses. 

EFFECTS OF THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE ON WATER QUALITY 

Under the No Action alternative, no roads would be put into storage or decommissioned. There 

would be no short-term sediment increases associated with the actual decommissioning work. 

However, there would also be no reduction in chronic sediment inputs from these roads or in the risk 

of road crossing failure. The roads would remain on the landscape, but would not be maintained and 

could develop erosion problems that would go unnoticed and un-remedied for years. 
Chapter 3

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3-72 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

C. Watershed road density (WRD), riparian road density (RRD), and stream crossing density (SCD)

Watershed road density (WRD), riparian road density (RRD), and stream crossing density (SCD) are 

indicators of watershed and riparian disturbance. Table 3-23 displays a summary of the effects of 

road construction, storage, and decommissioning on WRD, RRD, and SCD in each drainage for 

work that is assured under timber sale contract as well as for the total of all proposed work (including 

work for which funding is uncertain). The work accomplished under contractual obligation would vary 

by alternative and is summarized in the Alternative-specific columns, i.e., Alt B WRD/RRD/SCD 

(assured work). The total work proposed is the same under all action alternatives and is summarized 

in the final column (Alts B, C, D WRD/RRD/SCD (all work)). 

Table 3-23. Summary of Road Disturbance Indicators by Drainage 

Drainage 

Alt A 

Existing, 

WRD/RRD/SCD 

Alt B 

WRD/RRD/SCD

(assured work)

Alt C 

WRD/RRD/SCD 

(assured work) 

Alt D 

WRD/RRD/SCD 

(assured work) 

Alts B, C, D 

WRD/RRD/SCD 

(all work) 

Upper 

Brimstone 4.0 / 5.5 / 1.4 3.9 / 5.2 / 1.4 No Change 3.9 / 5.2 / 1.4 3.7 / 5.2 / 1.4 

Magnesia Cr 3.7 / 2.5 / 1.0 No Change No Change No Change 3.2 / 1.8 / 1.0 

Upper Lime 

Cr 3.4 / 4.2 / 0.5 No Change No Change No Change 2.1 / 1.8 / 0.5 

Lower Lime 

Cr 4.5 / 3.4 / 1.5 4.4 / 3.4 / 1.5 4.4 / 3.4 / 1.5 4.4 / 3.4 /1.5 4.1 / 3.4 / 1.5 

Upper Jim Cr 3.1 / 3.1 / 0.7 No Change No Change No Change 3.0 / 3.1 / 0.7 

Jim Cr 

Tributary 2.1 / 7.2 / 1.3 No Change No Change No Change 2.0 / 6.0 / 1.3 

Lower Jim Cr 5.9 / 5.7 / 1.2 No Change No Change No Change 5.6 / 5.5 / 1.2 

Stewart Cr 4.8 / 4.8 / 1.0 4.8 / 4.6 / 1.0 4.8 / 4.6 / 1.0 4.8 / 4.6 / 1.0 4.4 / 4.1 / 0.8 

Butcher Cr 5.8 / 5.7 / 5.0 No Change No Change No Change No Change 

Trego 

Analysis 

Area 

4.5 / 4.6 / 1.5 4.4 / 4.5 / 1.5 4.4 / 4.5 / 1.5 4.4 / 4.5 / 1.5 4.1 / 4.0 / 1.4 

EFFECTS OF ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES ON WRD, RRD, AND SCD 

If only contractual timber sale work is implemented (refer to Alt B, Alt C, Alt D individual columns in 

Table 13), WRD and/or RRD would decrease slightly in 3 of the 10 listed watersheds for 

Alternatives B and D and 2 of the 10 in Alternative C. The only measurable change in SCD (slight 

decrease) would be as a result of appropriated funding. 

If funding is obtained and all proposed work is implemented (refer to Alts A, B, C combined column in 

Table 3-23), all but one of the watersheds would have an improvement in one or more of the road 

densities analyzed. For analysis of what the change in road-related densities would do to 

sedimentation see the section titled “Road Intermittent Stored Service and Decommissioning” above. 

No new road construction is proposed with this project. All road-related densities would be 

maintained or reduced throughout implementation of this project. There is very little difference 

between the action alternatives with regard to road decommissioning and intermittent stored service. 

If all the work is funded (both timber and appropriated) there would be no difference between the 

alternatives. That is not to say that there would not be marked improvement to the majority of the 

analysis area road indicators as displayed in last column of Table 3-23. 

EFFECTS OF THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE ON WRD, RRD, AND STREAM CROSSINGS 

Under the No Action Alternative, no roads would be constructed, decommissioned, or placed in 

storage and no crossings would be constructed or removed. Therefore, WRD, RRD, and SCD would 
Water

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-73 

not change. For analysis of what the lack of change in road-related densities would do to 

sedimentation see the section titled “Road Intermittent Stored Service and Decommissioning” above. 

OVERALL EFFECTS OF THE ACTION ALTERNATIVES ON WATER QUALITY 

All of the action alternatives would at least maintain, and probably improve, water quality and 

beneficial uses throughout the analysis area. The PFIs associated with these alternatives are not 

high enough to initiate channel erosion and would have no effect on water quality. Application of 

BMPs for all vegetation management and fuels treatments would minimize their effects on water 

quality. 

The road surface drainage improvements that would occur under all action alternatives would reduce 

the risk of road erosion during extreme events. Even in areas that are not currently eroding, major 

runoff events could cause enough concentration of flow to initiate road surface gullying, ditch scour, 

or culvert failure. The BMP improvements in road surface and ditch relief drainage are designed to 

reduce these risks. 

Road intermittent stored service and decommissioning would increase short-term sedimentation but 

have a much greater reduction of long-term conditions within the analysis area. WRD, RRD, and/or 

SCD would improve in all but one watershed. Much of the remaining higher levels of road densities 

remaining are the result of roads on non-forest service land and outside the authority of this decision. 

With the exception of cattle exclosures, the Resource Enhancement Projects would have similar 

effects as road decommissioning and BMP upgrades on water quality. Short-term sediment inputs 

would result during project implementation and would be followed by long-term reductions in 

sediment yield and reduced risk of introduction of large quantities of sediment. No other Resource 

Enhancement Projects presented in Chapter 2 would affect water quality. Cattle exclosures are 

expected to have only positive effects on aquatic resources. 

OVERALL EFFECTS OF THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE ON WATER QUALITY 

The No Action Alternative would result in no new impacts and no net benefits to water quality. There 

would be no increases in PFIs and no risk of increased bank erosion. Because there would be no 

harvest activity, there would be no risk of additional erosion on harvested areas. Road improvements 

would not occur, but road maintenance would continue and chronic sediment contributions from 

roads would remain about the same as today. There would be no short-term sediment contributions 

from road storage and decommissioning or watershed resource enhancement projects because 

these activities would not occur. However, the risk of an extreme runoff event triggering road erosion 

and culvert failures would remain higher than under the action alternatives. 

3. Stream Channel Processes

The Rosgen Stream Classification System (Rosgen, 1996) was used in this analysis to help explain 

the processes, functions, and patterns of channels and predict channel responses. The Rosgen 

Level II Classification is derived from field measurements of stream attributes including 

entrenchment, width-depth ratio (W/D), slope, and sinuosity. Particle size is added to describe the 

Rosgen Stream Type. Descriptions of channel types can be found earlier in this document. 

A numerical classification of particle sizes is added to the basic Rosgen Level II Channel Type to 

characterize the size of the material that makes up the channel bed. Bed material size is important to 

channel stability and response because smaller particles can be eroded and transported by lower 

energy flows than larger particles. The size categories found in the analysis area are 3 (cobble), 4 

(gravel), 5 (sand), and 6 (silt). 

Historic data was gathered in 1990, 1996, and 2003. Stream types and channel stability were 

inventoried on permanent representative sites in the analysis area, by a trained Hydrology crew in 

2004 and 2005 and are presented in Table 3-24 below. The locations of these drainages are shown 

on Map 3-5. 
Chapter 3

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3-74 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Table 3-24. Channel Types and Stability Ratings 

Drainage Reach # CrossSection 

Channel 

Type 

Sensitivity 

To 

Disturbance

Recovery 

Potential 

Bank 

Erosion 

Potential 

Channel 

Stability 

Rating 

Upper Brimstone 1 1 B4a Moderate Excellent Low Good 

Magnesia Cr 1 1 B6 Moderate Excellent Low Fair 

Lime Cr 1 1 B4 Moderate Excellent Low Good 

 2 B4 Moderate Excellent Low Good 

 2 1 A4 High Poor High Fair 

 2 F4b High Poor High Fair 

Jim Cr 1 1 F3b Moderate Poor High Good 

Stewart Cr 1 1 F4b High Poor High Fair 

 2 F4b High Poor High Fair 

 2 1 B6a Moderate Excellent Low Fair 

Butcher Cr1 NA NA NA NA NA NA NA 

1

 Due to the majority of the watershed being private and the drainage’s surface/subsurface flow regime of 

Butcher Creek, an adequate survey monitoring site was not found. 

The channel stability ratings in the above table are based on the Pfankuch (1978). This rating system 

provides general information about a stream’s capacity to accommodate, adjust, and recover from 

potential changes in flow or sediment yields. These ratings do not necessarily indicate departures 

from natural channel conditions. 

Reaches with channel types having Sensitivity Potential ratings of High and channel stability ratings 

of Poor were considered potentially sensitive to increases in water delivery, as described in the 

previous section on Water Yield. 

EFFECTS OF ALL ALTERNATIVES ON STREAM CHANNEL PROCESSES 

None of the alternatives are expected to negatively affect stream channel processes in any reach 

and beneficial uses are expected to be maintained or improved. Alternatives B and C would 

increase PFIs slightly above existing levels. Alternative D would increase peak flows slightly more 

than Alternatives B and C. PFIs range from 0 to 3 percent. These levels of PFIs are not expected to 

initiate adverse channel changes. 

The cattle exclosure fencing, slash placement, and an additional water trough projects have the 

potential to improve overall stream channel processes. These projects would be implemented under 

Alternatives B, C, and D as funding becomes available. The cattle exclosures/water trough 

placement would improve conditions at the sites and downstream by allowing riparian vegetation to 

establish bank stability. The reduction in bank erosion would reduce the amount of fine sediment 

introduced to the creek and would contribute to reducing the fine sediment in pool tails (spawning 

areas). Bank vegetation would increase shading. There would be no short-term sediment generated 

by implementing these projects. 

Road decommissioning and storage work would occur under Alternatives B, C, and D as funding 

becomes available. Any stream crossings, whether a structure still exists or not, would be restored to 

match natural channel form (width, depth, and gradient). Restoration of stream crossing would 

benefit stream channel function. There would be some short-term sediment introduction from 

crossing restoration, but in the long-term, potential sediment yield from each site would decrease. 

The short-term and long-term impacts to sediment supply are discussed more thoroughly in the 

Effects of Road Storage and Decommissioning Common to All Action Alternatives portion of the 

Water Quality Section above. 

No new road construction is proposed. 
Water

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-75 

ISSUE 2: COMPLIANCE WITH PROTECTION OF RIPARIAN AND WETLAND AREAS 

The Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service, 1987b, Appendix 26) as modified by the Montana State 

Streamside Management Zone (SMZ) Law and Rules and Inland Native Fish Strategy (INFS) (USDA 

Forest Service, 1995b) requires protection of riparian and wetland areas. INFS generally calls for the 

highest level of protection for these areas. Minimum buffer widths are specified for different types of 

features and range from 50 feet for isolated wetlands smaller than one acre and intermittent streams 

to 300 feet for fish-bearing perennial streams. There are no units of measure for this analysis. 

Attainment of Riparian Management Objectives (RMOs) will be discussed qualitatively. 

Riparian areas are defined based on proximity to streams and rivers, whereas wetlands are defined 

by the water table being usually near the ground surface or where the land is at least seasonally 

covered by shallow water. Wetlands in the analysis area include marshes, lakeshores, sloughs, 

bogs, and wet meadows. Lakes may support associated wetlands or riparian areas. Riparian areas 

and wetlands are encompassed in Riparian Habitat Conservation Areas (RHCAs) as directed by 

INFS (USDA Forest Service, 1995b). 

Riparian areas and wetlands are an important component of the overall landscape, forming some of 

the most dynamic and ecologically rich areas on the landscape. The amount of riparian and wetland 

area in the analysis area is relatively small, but its ecological significance far exceeds its limited 

extent. In an altered condition, riparian areas can affect adjacent aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. 

Map 3-5 shows the riparian areas, wetlands, and lakes in the analysis area. 

Riparian Areas 

Over the last century, some riparian areas and wetlands in the analysis area have sustained damage 

from increased use. Since settlement in the Tobacco Valley, wetland and riparian areas have 

routinely been eliminated, reduced, and fragmented. Some have been drained, filled, sprayed with 

herbicides, grazed, or logged in order to facilitate agriculture and development. Many of the 

remaining high-quality wetlands and riparian areas are located on Forest Service lands. However, 

these, too, have experienced some amount of modification in the recent past, primarily due to 

grazing, road building, and silviculture. The riparian area along the mainstem of Fortine Creek has 

been modified by logging practices such as splash damming and construction and maintenance of 

the railroad. 

A stable, diverse, and healthy riparian area adjacent to stream channels is important to maintain 

channel form, geomorphic processes, and aquatic habitat quality. Typically, stream channels with the 

highest quality habitats occur adjacent to intact riparian areas. Although some management may 

have occurred in the riparian areas adjacent to some of the stable stream reaches in the analysis 

area, it was conducted in a manner that did not alter the structure or function of the streamside zone. 

Proper riparian management can reduce the density of the riparian area, allowing for a diverse age 

structure and species composition while reducing the hazard of a large-scale wildfire. 

Reaches with the poorest stability and lowest quality aquatic habitats tend to occur where there has 

been direct impact to the stream or riparian area from roads, the railroad, cattle trampling, or riparian 

regeneration. Some past regeneration harvest in riparian areas, although consistent with applicable 

laws at the time it was conducted, did not provide sufficient protection to the streamside zone. The 

possible effects of riparian regeneration include channel widening, lack of large woody debris, higher 

mid-summer water temperatures, high percentage of fine sediments, and a lack of deep pools. It is 

expected that regenerated riparian areas will provide the necessary values once they return to a 

forested condition within the next 30 years. 

Using the guidelines specified in INFS (USDA Forest Service, 1995b) to determine RHCAs, there are 

about 2,903 acres (or 13 percent of the total area) in the analysis area in RHCAs. (This number 

includes the 295 acres of wetlands described below.) 
Chapter 3

Trego EA 

3-76 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Wetlands, Lakes, and Ponds 

A total of 295 acres of wetlands (1 percent of the total area) occur in the analysis area. Of the total 

wetland acres, 78 acres are lakes and ponds (0.3 percent of the total area). In addition to district 

wetland, lake, and pond records, hardcopies of National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) maps (1992) 

were also reviewed. The NWI maps delineate each wetland into Systems, Subsystems, Classes, and 

Subclasses based on specific wetland features. For example, one of the wetlands in the analysis 

area is identified as in the analysis area are identified as PABGb which means it is a palustrine (P) 

system with an aquatic bed (AB) that is intermittently exposed (G) and has been modified by beaver 

(b). These features are all adequately delineated, described, and protected by inclusion in riparian 

areas/RHCAs. 

EFFECTS OF ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES ON RIPARIAN AND WETLAND AREAS 

None of the alternatives propose harvest activities within riparian areas or wetlands. The standard 

interim widths would be used to define the RHCAs surrounding these features for all but Units 1, 17, 

24, 34, and 66. The identified units would have modifications allowing activity in a portion of the 

default RHCAs, but no closer than 100 feet from the edge of a stream or wetland. The RHCA widths 

were based on on-the-ground information and are fully expected to prevent adverse impacts to 

riparian and aquatic resources. Refer to the Soil and Water Project File documents regarding RHCA 

modifications. 

Please see the Fisheries Project File for a more in-depth discussion on Riparian Management 

Objectives (RMOs). The following outlines the rationale for the effects of the alternatives on 

attainment of RMOs. 

Pool frequency – Establishment of RHCAs protects the source of large wood recruitment, which 

affects pool frequency because many pools in these systems are formed by wood (more wood = 

more pools). Pool frequency would not be adversely affected because wood recruitment either 

would not change (in intact riparian areas) or would increase through time (in riparian areas 

previously harvested). The cattle exclosures, road improvements, road decommissioning, and 

road intermittent stored service would also reduce the amount of fine sediment delivered to 

channels. 

Water temperature – RHCAs protect the trees that provide shade to channels and wetlands, so 

water temperature increases are not expected to occur under any alternative. All alternatives 

would also allow for recovery of previously harvested riparian areas and restoring shading where 

it has been previously removed. Cattle exclosures would allow riparian vegetation to recover. As 

a result, reaches with little canopy closure may begin to show cooling trends. 

Large Woody Debris – None of the harvest, road drainage improvements, road 

decommissioning, road intermittent stored service, or resource enhancement projects in any of 

the action alternatives would affect recruitment of LWD. None of the actions included in any 

alternative would remove LWD from an RHCA within one tree-length from a stream or wetland. 

Therefore, none of the alternatives would affect attainment of this RMO. 

Bank stability – This RMO applies only to non-forested systems, but is included in this analysis 

because the data is available (it is collected in the R1/R4 Fish Habitat Survey protocol). RHCAs 

protect against removal of trees on and near the banks of streams. These trees provide 

cohesion and armoring to the soils in the banks. RHCAs also prevent direct impacts to the banks 

that would result from practices such as skidding along or across a creek. Therefore, 

establishing RHCAs prevents additional impacts to streambanks. Roadwork within RHCAs would 

also follow the appropriate INFS standards and guidelines. Cattle exclosures would protect 

banks from trampling impacts improve bank stability. The design of each action alternative 

incorporated recommendations for maximum PFIs that were set below the level that is expected 

to result in channel impacts. Therefore, bank stability is not expected to be adversely affected 

and may improve as riparian areas that have been impacted in the past recover. 
Water

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-77 

Width/depth ratio – Wetted width/mean depth (w/d) is highly variable at a single site and 

depends on the flow stage. This parameter could be affected by changes in channel form or 

changes in the timing of flows. Changes in channel form are not expected except in the cattle 

exclosure area where the width/depth ratio is expected to decrease through time. In addition, 

some deepening of pools may occur over time as the fine sediment supply from roads is 

reduced. This would also result in a decrease in w/d. Increases in baseflows could result from 

increases in soil moisture in harvest units producing increased groundwater levels. This water 

would contribute to streamflow later into the summer and moderate the wetted width/depth ratio, 

keeping it lower longer. 

EFFECTS OF THE NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE ON RIPARIAN AND WETLAND AREAS 

Because no project activity would occur under the No Action Alternative, riparian areas and wetlands 

would experience no direct effects from this alternative. Cattle control projects would not be 

implemented, resulting in an indirect effect of continued cattle entry into the riparian areas identified 

for protection and continued trampling effects in these areas. The activities listed in Table 1-2 would 

continue and would follow INFS guidelines for protection of RHCAs. Those areas where past 

activities (such as riparian harvest) have occurred would recover at the same rate as under the 

Action Alternatives. 

Refer to Consistency with Regulatory Framework for more information about the protection of 

riparian areas and wetlands. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

The activities considered (in addition to the proposed actions) for this cumulative effects analysis are 

listed in Tables 1-1 and 1-2. The effects of past, present, and reasonably foreseeable actions are 

included in cumulative effects analysis. Only the activities that were determined to contribute to 

cumulative effects are presented in this document; the complete rationale supporting this effects 

determination can be found in the Water Cumulative Effects Worksheet in the Soil and Water Project 

File. Only vegetation management on private land was found to contribute to cumulative effects. 

Vegetation management on private land may contribute to PFIs in the analysis area, but is not 

expected to occur at levels that would cause water quality, channel stability, or aquatic habitat 

changes or affect the support of beneficial uses. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

A. Compliance with the Clean Water Action and protection of beneficial uses

The Clean Water Act (CWA) established federal water quality policies, goals, and programs. The 

objective of the CWA is to “restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the 

nations’ waters.” The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the State of Montana have 

responsibility for carrying out the intent of the CWA. States are required to establish water quality 

standards that allow for the protection of beneficial uses. Any action within a given watershed should 

maintain or improve stream conditions within that watershed. All alternatives comply with the 

CWA. Each alternative is expected to maintain or improve stream conditions in the analysis 

area. This expectation is based on: surveys of existing stream conditions and consideration 

of channel stability and sensitivity to disturbance; the conclusion of the Water Yield analysis 

that PFIs would not exceed recommended levels; the application of BMPs to all proposed 

timber harvest and underburning activities; evidence from Forest monitoring results and the 

literature that the BMPs are effective; and the conclusion that the effects of BMP 

improvements, storage, and decommissioning of roads will reduce existing water and 

sediment contributions from the road network.

In a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Forest Service and the State of Montana, 

the Forest Service has been designated as the management agency responsible for water quality 

protection on National Forest System lands. In the MOU, the Forest Service has agreed to follow 
Chapter 3

Trego EA 

3-78 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

State Water Quality Standards established under the Montana Water Quality Act, primarily through 

implementation of BMPs. These are designed to ensure that water quality and beneficial uses are 

protected both during and after implementation of land management activities. Appendix B outlines 

the BMPs designated for each potential activity. These measures are fully expected to 

minimize soil disturbance and erosion. The 2001 KNF Monitoring Report shows that BMPs 

evaluated between 1994 and 2001 are 94 percent effective (USDA Forest Service, 2002). Road 

drainage improvements are expected to reduce chronic sediment delivery in the long term, 

which is expected to improve aquatic habitat conditions and move Fortine Creek towards full 

support of aquatic life. Based on Wegner (1999), a measurable decrease in percent fine 

sediment in pool tails may occur. The monitoring plan for this analysis area is outlined in 

Appendix C.

The CWA requires states to identify waterbodies that do not fully support all their designated 

beneficial uses. These impaired waterbodies are called Water Quality Limited Segments (WQLS). 

As identified in this document, Fortine Creek is a WQLS. Implementation of the proposed 

activities, including the Design Criteria specified in Table 2-10 and BMPs specified in 

Appendix B, will at least maintain beneficial use conditions and will probably improve them. 

B. Compliance with the protection of riparian areas and wetlands

Section 404 of the CWA authorizes the Secretary of the Army to issue permits for the discharge of 

dredged or fill material into wetlands (33 CFR 323). Silvicultural activities are exempt from the 404 

permit process, as are associated road construction and maintenance that adhere to BMPs (33 CFR 

323.4a). Silvicultural treatment and roadwork near wetlands would be done in accordance 

with the KNF Riparian Guidelines, as amended by the Montana SMZ Law and INFS.

C. Forest Plan Consistency

All alternatives are consistent with Kootenai Forest Plan direction for maintaining water quality and 

protecting wetland and riparian areas. Implementation of any alternative would at least maintain, and 

action alternatives would likely improve, the support of beneficial uses. 

The Riparian Area Guidelines in Appendix 26 of the Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service, 1987b), as 

amended by the Montana Streamside Management Zone (SMZ) Law and INFS (USDA Forest 

Service, 1995b), provide standards and guidelines for activities in riparian areas and wetlands. 

These regulations would be strictly followed during sale design and layout and any other 

action resulting from the decision.
Fisheries

Trego EA 3-79 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Fisheries 

Fortine Creek is the main drainage that routes water out of the Trego Analysis Area and provides the 

primary (base) fish habitat for the analysis area. Within the analysis area, there are a number of 

tributaries to Fortine Creek that provide seasonal to potential year-around habitat for fish. These 

tributaries include: Brimstone Creek, Lime Creek, Magnesia Creek, Stewart Creek, Jim Creek, and 

the lower reach of Butcher Creek. All tributaries flow through private land before reaching Fortine 

Creek. Water from the analysis area eventually drains into the Tobacco River and Lake Koocanusa. 

Please refer to Map 3-5 for a display of fish habitat within the Trego Analysis Area. 

Fish species known to occur within the Trego Analysis Area include westslope cutthroat trout, 

rainbow trout, westslope/rainbow trout hybrids, brook trout and torrent sculpin. All these species 

inhabit Fortine Creek; however the tributaries support mostly brook trout. There are two tributary 

reaches, one in Stewart Creek and one in Magnesia Creek that currently support primarily westslope 

cutthroat. 

Except for Fortine Creek, the analysis area provides fair to poor recreational fishing opportunities. 

Existing fishing pressure is low. Public access to the tributaries on public land varies from fair to 

good, which includes road crossings. Quality of fishing opportunity is low with small fish (generally 

less than 6 inches in length), small channels with substrates that are largely covered with calcium 

carbonate, and banks that are generally well vegetated with shrubs and trees making access difficult. 

Fortine Creek provides fair to good fishing opportunities, however public access is limited with over 

80% of the creek situated on private land. 

The entire analysis area can be potentially affected by proposed management activities. Effects to 

fish populations will be assessed based on effects to habitat. Existing conditions were determined 

through surveys and review of existing data sources and information. 

Data Sources, Methods, and Assumptions 

Montana Fisheries Information System (Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks database) was reviewed for 

fish distribution within the analysis area. Fish population surveys were conducted in Fortine Creek 

between the years 1990 and 1992 (Perkinson, Swamp Edna Monitoring). Electrofishing surveys 

were conducted in August of 2004 for presence or absence of species. These surveys focused on 

distribution and connectivity of fish species in the analysis area. 

Interim Riparian Management Objectives as established by INFS standards for forested systems 

include pool frequency, large woody debris, temperature, and width/depth ratio. Actions that retard 

attainment of these Riparian Management Objectives, whether existing conditions are better or 

worse than objective values, are inconsistent with INFS. 

Default (unless modified for site specific data) riparian habitat conservation areas (RHCAs,) are 

attached to all known streams, ponds, lakes, reservoirs, wetlands, landslides, and landslide-prone 

areas within the planning area (descriptions and associated distances is located in the project file). 

RHCA widths are defined by whether a stream is fish-bearing or perennial and by the size of the 

water-body. Widths of RHCA buffers are based on current scientific literature and or local conditions 

that document them to be adequate to maintain streams from non-channelized sediment inputs and 

provide for other riparian functions. These riparian functions include delivery of organic matter, large 

woody debris recruitment, and stream shading. For additional information on INFS direction and 

RHCAs, please refer to the Hydrology Specialists Report. 

Analysis area baseline conditions were developed to evaluate the effects of proposed actions on 

Fortine Creek, as all potentially affected tributaries flow there. The baseline for Fortine Creek 

includes the 19 habitat indicators listed on the FWS matrix for bull trout, KNF-2670-BT3 (USDI, 

1998). Existing baseline conditions were determined using the R1/R4 Fish Habitat Survey Protocol 

completed during the 2000 field season. Habitat parameters evaluated for fish-bearing tributaries 

within the analysis area include bottom substrate, habitat complexity, pool quality, bank stability, 
Chapter 3

Trego EA 

3-80 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

bank maintenance, and canopy coverage. Baseline information was obtained from the Kootenai 

Forest Stream Surveys, Fish Habitat Assessments, R1/R4 Fish Habitat Survey Protocol, and 

Watershed Field Data. 

Westslope cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, westslope/rainbow trout hybrids, brook trout and torrent 

sculpin are known to occur within the Trego Analysis Area. Because diversity represents an 

important mechanism leading to the persistence of a species in a variable environment, maintaining 

diversity is important to the conservation of native and other desired species. Five measurement 

indicators, which are important to these species, will be evaluated within the analysis area. They 

include: channel stability, substrate composition, cover, temperature, and migratory corridors. These 

measurement indicators can influence the stability, growth, and survival of these species; however 

no thresholds can be set as clear "tolerance" limits for the maintenance of populations. The effects 

from fine sediments are often negative, for example, but it is not possible to precisely define 

tolerance limits. Also, the habitat requirements for any single population may vary with the 

productivity of the basin, climate, geology, geomorphology, dominant life-history form, competition, 

predation, or fishing pressure. Potential changes in measurement indicators will be indirectly 

measured through: Peak Flow Increases, Water Quality, and Analysis of Riparian Management 

Objectives Attainment. 

The bounds of analysis for the above mentioned fish species is the Trego Analysis Area. The various 

tributaries within the analysis area flow into Fortine Creek. It is expected that direct, indirect, and 

cumulative effects from proposed activities can be evaluated within the analysis area. These effects 

would be non-discernable downstream of the analysis area. 

 

The cumulative effects analysis was based on habitat changes from the baseline condition as a 

result of the proposed activities, ongoing projects, and other foreseeable Federal, State and private 

activities. Effects to resiliency and consequently the probability of species persistence within the 

analysis area were based on this cumulative analysis. 

Watershed Existing Condition 

From the endangered, threatened, sensitive or desirable non-native fish species found on the Forest, 

the westslope cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, brook trout and torrent sculpin are the only species that 

are potentially affected by the proposed activities. This analysis will center on their habitat needs. 

The effects of proposed activities on desirable non-native fish will be similar to those described for 

the westslope cutthroat trout. 

As identified in the introduction, the primary (base) fish habitat within the analysis area is provided by 

Fortine Creek. A number of tributaries (Brimstone, Lime, Magnesia, Stewart, Jim and Butcher) 

provide limited seasonal and potential yearlong habitat. The effects of the proposed action will 

primarily focus on these tributaries and cumulatively how they affect Fortine Creek. The lower 

reaches of all tributaries transect private land before flowing into Fortine Creek and over 80% of 

Fortine Creek is in private ownership. In an effort to minimize repetition, only select watershed 

condition information is summarized as it relates directly to these local fish populations. In August 

2004, fish habitat surveys were completed in the following tributaries: Brimstone Creek, Limestone 

Creek, Magnesia Creek, Stewart Creek, and Jim Creek. Fish habitat surveys are located in the 

project file. For a thorough review of the existing hydrologic condition, please refer to the Hydrologist 

Specialist Report. 

Inland Native Fish Strategy (INFS)

The following table (3-25) compares existing habitat conditions in Fortine Creek with Riparian 

Management Objectives (RMO) provided by INFS. 
Fisheries

Trego EA 3-81 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

 Table 3-25. Comparison of Habitat Conditions to Interim INFS Riparian Management Objectives 

Habitat Feature Interim INFS RMO Existing Condition 

Pool Frequency >42pools per mile 20 pools per mile 

Water Temperature <59 F adult habitat (summer) 68 F 

Large Woody Debris >20 pieces per mile 36 pieces per mile 

Width/Depth Ratio (W/D) <10 51.5 

Fortine Creek meets RMO’s only for large wood debris. Fortine Creek, especially in July and August 

supports warm water temperatures. Joe Huston, retired fish biologist from MFWP, identified this fact 

during his Libby Dam mitigation fish studies in the early 1980’s. The width/deep ratio is high and 

pool frequency is less than interim direction. For these last two parameters, it is believed that much 

of why they do not meet interim direction can be attributed to the early log drives. Early logs drives 

widened the channel and removed much instream and riparian wood. Also over 80% of Fortine 

Creek is located on private land. Land development, including the clearing of land for pastures, 

agriculture, and housing has also modified riparian habitat. 

Affected Environment 

Fish Population Status

Most fish populations within the Trego Analysis Area are physically connected to Lake Koocanusa. 

There are no physical barriers that prevent fish from moving between the analysis area and Lake 

Koocanusa. Brimstone Creek is not currently connected with Fortine Creek because of dewatering 

on private land. However during years of high precipitation, flow connection may be connected 

during short time periods. Magnesia Creek is also not connected with Fortine Creek, at times, 

because of water diversion on private land. The lower culvert on Lime Creek is also a partial fish 

barrier. Studies by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, (MFWP) have documented movement of 

rainbow trout and westslope cutthroat trout between Fortine Creek and Lake Koocanusa (Huston, 

1984). 

Presently a viable connected population of westslope cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, brook trout, and 

torrent sculpin occur within the analysis area. Fish populations in Brimstone Creek are disjunct and 

are comprised of brook trout. 

Brook trout and Yellowstone cutthroat trout were first introduced into the Tobacco River/Fortine 

Creek system in 1924 with rainbow trout introductions starting in 1944. Information from MFWP 

(2000) suggests that genetic purity of westslope cutthroat trout is less than 90% in the drainages 

tested which includes Fortine Creek, Brimstone Creek, Stewart Creek, and Jim Creek. 

THREATENED, ENDANGERED, AND PROPOSED SPECIES 

White sturgeon and their habitat occur downstream of Lake Koocanusa. As the area of influence of 

the proposed activities is within the analysis area (located upstream of Lake Koocanusa), they would 

not affect white sturgeon or their habitat. A finding of No Effect was determined for the sturgeon for 

all proposed and connected activities. Therefore, white sturgeon will not be discussed further in this 

document. 

On the Fortine Ranger District, bull trout are only known to spawn and rear within the Grave Creek 

and Wigwam River drainages and Therriault Creek. Lake Koocanusa supports important populations 

of native bull trout. The Tobacco River provides the migration corridor link between the reservoir and 

Grave Creek, which is the primary spawning area for the US portion of the Upper Kootenai 

population. 

Based on data from the Montana Fisheries Information System (information available on MFWP’s 

website and available in the project file), bull trout are absent within the Fortine drainage, but occur 
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3-82 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

downstream in the Tobacco River. The analysis area is not identified as a priority watershed under 

INFS. District fish surveys conducted in 1999, 2001, and 2002 did not collect any bull trout within the 

upper Fortine drainage. District fish surveys conducted in 1999, 2000, and 2001 within that portion of 

Fortine Creek that is located within the analysis area also did not identify bull trout. Fish surveys 

conducted in August of 2004 did find two bull trout in a large pool in the lower portion of Jim Creek. 

As no other bull trout were observed in the Jim Creek drainage, it is suspected that the two identified 

bull trout were migrants from the Tobacco Grave population. With the increased number of bull trout 

in Lake Koocanusa, it is expected that more fish will be exploring for additional suitable spawning 

habitat. As Jim Creek does not support suitable spawning habitat, it is expected that bull trout will not 

stay in this drainage. Fish surveys conducted in 2005 in lower Jim Creek did not detect the presence 

of bull trout. 

 

The various watersheds within the analysis area flow into Fortine Creek. It is expected that direct, 

indirect, and cumulative effects from proposed activities will occur and can be evaluated within the 

analysis area. Downstream of the analysis area, the effects would not be discernable. Therefore, 

proposed activities would not affect bull trout or their habitat. A finding of No Effect was determined 

for the bull trout for all proposed and connected activities. Bull trout will not be discussed further in 

this document. 

SENSITIVE SPECIES

Of the four sensitive fish species found on the Forest, two of them, the interior redband trout and 

burbot, do not occur within the analysis area or the area of influence of the proposed activities. 

Therefore they are not discussed further in this document. Proposed activities would have no impact

on the redband trout and burbot. 

The other two sensitive fish species, westslope cutthroat trout and torrent sculpin, occur within the 

Trego Analysis Area. These two species are addressed below. The following assessment will serve 

as the biological evaluation for these species. 

Desirable Non-Native Species: Rainbow trout and brook trout also inhabit the analysis area. Effects 

on these species and their habitat from the implementation of proposed activities would be similar to 

those effects described below for the westslope cutthroat trout. 

A. Westslope Cutthroat Trout 

The distribution and abundance of westslope cutthroat trout have declined from historic levels across 

its range, which includes western Montana's Kootenai River drainage (Graham, 1988). Due to 

hybridization, genetically pure populations are present in only 2.5 percent of that range (Rieman and 

Apperson, 1989). Introduced species have hybridized or displaced westslope cutthroat trout 

populations across their range. Hybridization causes loss of genetic purity of the population through 

introgression. Some of these remaining genetically pure populations of westslope cutthroat trout are 

found above fish passage barriers that protect them from hybridization, but isolate them from other 

populations. Westslope cutthroat trout are common on the Kootenai National Forest. 

Habitat fragmentation and the subsequent isolation of conspecific populations is a concern for 

westslope cutthroat trout due to the increased risk of local and general extinctions. The probability 

that one population in any locality would persist depends on habitat quality and proximity to other 

populations (Rieman and McIntyre, 1993).

Fish surveys conducted by the District in 1990, 1991, and 1992, 2004, and MFWP identified the 

presence of westslope cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, westslope cutthroat/rainbow trout hybrids, and 

brook trout within the analysis area. Ocular surveys conducted during field reconnaissance of the 

analysis area in the late 1980’s to the mid 1990’s identified the presence of both young and adult fish 

in the tributaries, with the majority of the fish observed being brook trout. 
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Trego EA 3-83 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

1. Description of the Population within the Analysis Area 

Historically, westslope cutthroat trout were likely distributed throughout the analysis area, 

including all tributaries identified that currently support fish habitat. Private land development, 

forest management, and the introduction of Yellowstone cutthroat, rainbow and brook trout have 

reduced native westslope populations and habitat availability within the analysis area. 

The westslope cutthroat fishery in the Trego Analysis Area is maintaining itself through both 

resident and reservoir (Lake Koocanusa) fish. Fortine Creek supports resident cutthroat, 

rainbow, and brook trout, and adfluvial runs of cutthroat and rainbow trout (MDFWP - J. Huston, 

1984 [fyke trap results]). Because of these adfluvial runs and the introduction of Yellowstone 

cutthroat and rainbow trout, Huston believed there are no pure strains of westslope cutthroat 

(>90 percent) within Fortine Creek. This finding is still supported by information provided by the 

State (MDFWP, 2000), which includes those tributaries within the analysis area that had genetic 

work completed. With the existing fish data, fish population trend was not determined. It is 

thought that the majority of the westslope spawn and rear in Fortine Creek, however limited 

spawning and rearing may occur in the lower reaches of some tributaries. Fish surveys 

conducted in tributaries did not identify any westslope fry. 

Many of the drainages on the District have experienced reduced flows from drought conditions 

that have lasted approximately five years and which have reduced the availability of fish habitat. 

It is anticipated that the westslope cutthroat population will increase as flows return to normal; 

however, westslopes will remain the least represented trout species in the analysis area. 

 

2. Environmental Baseline - Species Indicators and Habitat Indicators 

The following species indicators refer to the entire Fortine Creek population (6th

code HUC 17010101030112). 

1) Subpopulation Size: Redd counts have not been conducted within the analysis area or the 

Upper portion of Fortine Creek. As Fortine Creek supports populations of rainbow and brook 

trout, it would be difficult to differentiate redds by species. Electroshocking results (1990, 1991, 

1992, 1999, 2001, and 2002) have documented the presence of all age classes of westslope 

cutthroat trout within the Fortine drainage. Although this population of westslopes is physically 

connected with the Lake Koocanusa population, they are competing with two non-native species 

(rainbow and brook trout). Therefore, it is thought that this population is functioning at risk. 

2) Growth & Survival: There is insufficient data to determine growth and survival rates for the 

Fortine Creek population. In consideration of the competition with the two non-native species, 

this population characteristic is assumed to be functioning at risk. 

3) Life History Diversity & Isolation: Throughout its spawning habitat within the Fortine drainage, 

this population is coexisting with non-native rainbow trout. Electroshocking has identified 

westslope/rainbow hybridization. Consequently, this population characteristic is considered to be 

functioning at risk. 

4) Persistence and Genetic Integrity: The Fortine population is connected to Lake Koocanusa 

and the known spawning habitat includes many of the tributaries within the Fortine drainage. 

Coastal rainbows and Yellowstone cutthroat trout were introduced as early as the 1920’s and 

subsequent planting followed through to 1960’s. Brook trout are abundant throughout the Fortine 

drainage. These species threaten the persistence and genetic integrity of westslope cutthroat 

trout. Hybridization and displacement by competition has occurred and is expected to continue. 

Consequently, this population characteristic is functioning at risk. 
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3-84 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

B. Torrent Sculpin 

The torrent sculpin is restricted to the Kootenai drainage in Montana, but is locally abundant in the 

habitats it occupies. To date, this species has been located in abundance in 25 third order and larger 

Kootenai River tributaries (Edson, 1992; Gangemi, 2000). The existence of the torrent sculpin in the 

Kootenai River and downstream end of lateral tributaries and replacement of the species in pristine 

headwater habitats by the common slimy sculpin indicates the high tolerance of torrent sculpin to 

sediment and cool nutrient-laden waters. Although torrent sculpin require fast water cobbly reaches 

in the lower ends of tributaries for spawning and nursery areas, they have been found as much as 35 

miles upstream in low gradient, warm, sedimented streams. Because of the conditions of habitats 

currently occupied by torrent sculpin, they are believed to have more general habitat requirements 

than salmonids. 

On the Forest, torrent sculpin are found in the Tobacco River and its tributary (Fortine Creek), Big 

Creek, Libby Creek, Granite Creek, Lake Creek, Callahan Creek, Quartz Creek, and the Yaak River. 

 

1. Description of the Population within the Project Area 

Historically, it is thought that torrent sculpin were distributed throughout the analysis area in the 

same drainages as they currently occupy, however there may have been more cobble habitat 

available to them in Fortine Creek prior to the log drives. Private land development, forest 

management, and the introduction of rainbow and brook trout may have suppressed population 

numbers. The current torrent sculpin population within the analysis area is thought to be 

composed of residents, however sculpin populations occur both upstream and downstream of 

the analysis area. 

Data collected with the 1990, 1991, and 1992 District Fish Surveys indicates the torrent sculpin 

were well represented in Fortine Creek. Montana Fisheries Information System identified the 

torrent sculpin in only one tributary, Stewart Creek. Most sculpin found on the Forest have 

occurred in third order or larger streams that are at least eight feet in average width during low 

flows. Tributaries within the analysis area are narrower than this. Because of the few years of 

conducting population estimates in Fortine Creek, fish population trend was not determined. 

Fish collected during electroshocking surveys (1990, 1991, 1992, 1999, 2001, and 2002) 

indicates that sculpin are reproducing within the Fortine Drainage. 

2. Environmental Baseline - Species Indicators and Habitat Indicators 

The following species indicators refer to the entire Fortine Creek population (6th

code HUC 17010101030112). 

1) Subpopulation Size: Little information is available on habitat requirements of torrent sculpin. 

Electroshocking results (1990, 1991, 1992, 1999, 2001, and 2002) have documented the 

presence of all age classes of sculpin within the Fortine drainage. Electroshocking results within 

known suitable habitat demonstrates that sculpin are abundant. Therefore, it is thought that this 

population is functioning properly. 

2) Growth & Survival: There is insufficient data to determine growth and survival rates for the 

Fortine Creek population. Although not demonstrated, it is thought that there is minor 

competition with the two non-native species. Therefore, this population characteristic is 

assumed to be functioning properly. 

3) Life History Diversity & Isolation: Slimy sculpin or any other sculpin have not been 

documented within the analysis area, or within the Fortine drainage (Edson 1992, Gangemi, 

2000). Torrent sculpin are known to occur above and below the analysis area. Consequently, 

this population characteristic is considered to be functioning properly. 
Fisheries

Trego EA 3-85 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

4) Persistence and Genetic Integrity: The Fortine population is connected to the Tobacco River 

which also supports torrent sculpin. Slimy sculpin or any other sculpin have not been documented 

within the analysis area or the Fortine drainage (Edson 1992, Gangemi, 2000). Consequently, this 

population characteristic is functioning properly. 

Environmental Consequences 

The effects of the proposed alternatives on westslope cutthroat trout and torrent sculpin and their 

habitats would be analyzed using the measurement indicators described above. Measurement 

indicators will be evaluated through peak flow increases (PFI), water quality, and attainment of 

riparian management objectives (RMO). Alternatives will be compared as to how they meet 

measurement indicator objectives or recommended levels. Alternatives will also be evaluated to 

determine if the proposed actions meet direction provided by INFS. 

Direct and indirect effects on westslope cutthroat trout and torrent sculpin are described below for 

proposed activities identified in Chapter 2. Direct, indirect, and cumulative effects were considered 

for all current and reasonably foreseeable activities listed and described in Chapter I and other 

resource opportunities identified in Chapter 2. The Cumulative Effects Worksheet located in the 

fisheries project file evaluates the effects of these activities on fish and their habitat. Those activities 

that had a measurable effect on the fishery resources were included at the end of this section. 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

The various watersheds within the Trego Analysis Area flow into Fortine Creek. Downstream of the 

analysis area, Fortine Creek joins with Grave Creek to form the Tobacco River. It is expected that 

direct, indirect, and cumulative effects from the proposed actions can be evaluated within the 

analysis area. Downstream of the analysis area, the effects would not be discernable. 

. 

Riparian vegetation and function would be maintained by following INFS direction. RHCAs would 

maintain westslope cutthroat and torrent sculpin habitat from non-channelized sediment 

inputs, maintain large woody debris recruitment, and ensure nutrient delivery and storage. A 

review associated with INFS (USDA Forest Service, 1995b) concluded that non-channelized 

sediment flow rarely travels more than 300 feet and those 200-300 foot riparian buffers are generally 

effective at maintaining streams from sediment from non-channelized flow. 

Typically, there is a three-to-four year increase in nitrogen and phosphorus in streams draining a 

newly harvested area. This brief increase in the two nutrients critical to stream productivity results 

from the breakdown of logging slash, flushing of some soil nutrients normally taken up by trees, and, 

in some cases, due to slash burning. These short-term indirect water quality effects do not generally 

extend very far downstream because of mitigation by instream sediments and uptake by plants and 

animals (Murphy and Meehan, 1991). However, these nutrients are generally in short supply in the 

aquatic system, and the potentially affected waters downstream would increase aquatic productivity 

for a short time.

There are a number of Design Criteria listed in Chapter 2 that would be implemented to reduce the 

risk of sediment delivery to local waterways. These include task items related to fire lines, roads, skid 

trails, and slash piling. In addition, identified BMP upgrades would reduce the risk of massive road 

erosion during major events. BMP have been developed to prevent erosion and sediment delivery to 

live channels and bodies of water. For more information on BMPs, please refer to the Water 

Specialist Report. 

Recreational fishing: The various fisheries within the Trego Analysis Area, except Fortine Creek 

and Brimstone Lake, provide poor recreational fishing opportunities on National Forest lands. Fortine 

Creek provides fair to good recreational fishing opportunities, however most of the channel is located 

on private land. Fishing opportunities are not expected to change with the implementation of any 

alternative. Recreational points, including roads and dispersed sites, that provide public access for 
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3-86 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

fishing would not change. Local fish populations are expected to remain stable as proposed activities 

would follow INFS direction and not create changes in channel shape or function. A number of road 

improvement activities and the implementation of BMPs and resource enhancement projects may 

cause short-term increases in sediment delivery; however, there would be long-term sediment 

reductions. The conversion of old roads to non-motorized trails near Bear Paw Lake is expected to 

increase recreational use here; however recreational fishing opportunities are expected to remain 

good. Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks regularly plants fish in Bear Paw Lake. There are no other 

known potential effects to recreational fishing.

Peak Flow Increases: Channel morphology is closely tied to the magnitude and duration of runoff 

events. If the stream flow regime is altered significantly, changes in channel shape and function 

would occur. That "threshold level" above which we expect significant changes in channel shape and 

function is referred to as the allowable peak flow increase. Allowable peak flow increase was 

determined for each watershed. 

Proposed timber harvest and road building can alter the normal stream flow patterns within 

drainages and increase peak flows. For all action alternatives, modeled Peak Flow Increases (PFI) 

follow Forest Plan direction and recommendations based on field surveys conducted by the District 

Hydrologist and his field crew. This is based on the assumption that all harvest would occur in 2006 

and that 30 acres of regeneration harvest in the Stewart Creek drainage under Alternative B would 

occur in 2008. 

No alternative would raise cumulative peak flows at the downstream boundary of the analysis area. 

For the different watersheds that comprise the Trego Analysis Area, PFI range from 0 to 3%. There 

is very little difference between alternatives and there are no expected adverse change in channel 

form and function associated with them. Alternatives D provides for the highest PFIs, while 

Alternative B and C provide for the least increase. As described in the aquatic section, the modeling 

tool used provides a consistent method for comparing alternatives; however it does not necessarily 

estimate exact flows. 

By following Forest Plan direction and site-specific recommendations for increases in water yield, 

beneficial uses would be maintained. It is expected that proposed alternatives and associated peak 

flows would not impact channel processes and would maintain channel shape and function within 

and downstream of the analysis area. Consequently, the risk for potential change in instream habitat 

and channel stability from proposed activities would be low within the analysis area. As channel 

scouring is not expected to increase, the availability of pool habitat and instream woody material 

would remain stable. Riparian vegetation is not expected to be adversely affected from changes in 

PFIs. 

Water Quality: All action alternatives were designed to reduce impacts that roads have on aquatic 

resources by identifying and treating sources and potential sources of road-associated sediment and 

implementing BMPs. As noted in the aquatic section, the level of sediment production to streams 

resulting from timber harvest is dependent on the level of planning and attention provided to site 

specific conditions. Application of BMPs within proposed timber sale areas would retain sediment in 

harvest units and riparian conservation areas (RCHA). Action alternatives would correct existing 

drainage problems through road reconstruction, surfacing, rehabilitation of stream crossings, 

installation of drainage structures, and the seeding of disturbed ground. 

As discussed in the Water Resource Section, studies have shown a correlation between sediment 

production and road length. All action alternatives would place 0.44 mile of road into storage and 

decommission 12.47 miles of road. This work would jointly be completed through timber sale 

contracts and other funding. The other funding would be used as it becomes available (refer to the 

aquatic section for breakdown of funding and associated road work). Road improvements would 

focus on preventing water and sediment from entering streams. Road improvement work has been 

identified on portions of 45.68 miles of road under Alternatives B and C, and 47.86 miles of road 

under Alternative D. Within Riparian Habitat Conservation Areas, 15 stream crossing would be 

improved under Alternative B and C and 16 crossings under Alternative D. Results from the Water 
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Trego EA 3-87 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Erosion Protection Project (WEPP) Model suggests that from 51 (Alternative B and C) to 

61(Alternative D) percent of the sediment contributed to channels at road crossing could be 

prevented by installing BMPs only on the roads used during timber sales in the analysis area. While 

these numbers are not meant to be interpreted literally, they do illustrate that the prominent sediment 

sources on roads can be identified and treatment of these areas would substantially reduce sediment 

delivery and reduce impacts on aquatic environments. 

Proposed road storage and decommissioning would decrease watershed road density from 4.5 to 

4.4 mile per square mile (all action alternatives); decrease riparian road density from 4.6 to 4.4 mile 

per square mile (Alternatives B and C) or 4.0 (Alternative D); and reduce stream crossing density 

from 1.5 to 1.4 (Alternative D). All temporary roads would be drained, ripped, and closed to 

motorized traffic after harvest activities are completed. 

Chapter 2 lists a number of proposed resource projects including failing log culvert removal, 

returning water flow to its channel, and controlling cattle grazing within disturbed riparian areas. The 

implementation of these activities would also provide additional improvement through reducing 

sediment delivery to channels and reducing the risk of channel failure. Accomplishment of these 

projects is dependent on funding availability. 

In the short term, there would be minor increases in sediment delivery associated with road 

improvement work and the construction of temporary road. Through the use of BMPs and the 

application of State Water Quality Guidelines, sediment delivery should return to preconstruction 

levels within two years after the work is completed and decrease over the long term. Short-term 

sediment increases are not expected to change substrate composition. 

Established riparian buffer widths for proposed activities follow INFS direction for RHCAs. 

Associated riparian buffers would maintain streams from non-channelized sediment inputs and 

provide other riparian functions, including delivery of organic matter and woody debris, stream 

shading, filtration of contaminants, and bank stability. 

Intact riparian habitat also reduces the risk of cattle damaging stream banks. Existing grazing 

disturbance within riparian areas is localized and generally associated with road crossings and 

harvest units. Proposed resource enhancement structures (fences and slash arrangement) and 

range management would afford recovery to identified sites and help improve riparian vegetation. 

Accomplishment of these projects is dependent on funding availability. 

It is expected that all action alternatives would produce minor increases in sediment delivery within 

affected drainages in the short term; however, over the long term, sediment delivery would be 

reduced. This sediment is not expected to change substrate composition and associated fish habitat 

(pools, riffles, and spawning and rearing habitat) within the analysis area. Any produced sediment 

would not be detectable downstream of the analysis area. 

For additional information, please refer to the Water Resources Specialist Report. 

Analysis of Riparian Management Objectives Attainment: All proposed harvest activity is located 

outside RHCAs. Consequently, riparian cover and shading would not change. It is expected that the 

proposed alternatives would not change instream water temperature within the analysis area. 

Expected long-term reduction in sediment delivery may help reduce water temperature. Sediment 

reduction is also expected to increase the availability of invertebrates (fish food). Riparian cover 

along fish habitat would not be modified with the proposed alternatives. The re-establishment of tree 

cover in regenerated stands along perennial drainages would decrease water temperature over time. 

Intact RHCAs would also provide for a continuum of large woody debris that provides both instream 

and bank cover structure and a source of food for invertebrates upon which fish feed. Intact RHCAs 

would also help maintain stable banks and contain/filter sediment flow. Proposed activities would not 

create barriers to fish movement. 
Chapter 3

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3-88 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

In consideration of the proposed activities and their potential affect on IPF, water quality, and 

attainment of riparian management objectives (RMO), it is expected that proposed activities would 

not retard the attainment of RMO for all tributaries within the analysis area and Fortine Creek. There 

are no expected changes to the existing ratings levels discussed under the 19 habitat indicators 

evaluated for Fortine Creek. Also there are no expected changes to the existing species indicator 

values for westslope cutthroat trout and the torrent sculpin. Over the long-term, proposed activities 

would allow most of the 19 habitat indicators that are functioning at risk, to improve. 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

 Direct and Indirect Effects 

 

During the next 10 years, it is anticipated that there would be no measurable change to fish habitat 

from the implementation of this alternative. Tree growth in regenerated stands along perennial 

drainages would increase riparian cover and shading and decrease water temperature over time. 

The exclusion of fire would increase the risk of stand-replacement fire within the analysis area. 

Stand-replacement fires increase the risk of large pulses of sediment delivery to fish bearing streams 

that can both adversely affect fish and their habitat. This alternative would not implement proposed 

road rehabilitation work and closures. Consequently, associated roads would continue to deliver 

sediment to local waterways and westslope/sculpin habitat within the analysis area. Undersized 

culverts could plug and wash out, resulting in large increases of sediment to the streams. 

Disturbance values associated with high Total Road Density within the watershed and Riparian Road 

Density within RHCAs would not be reduced. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

The geology of the watershed, past timber harvest and road construction projects, and natural 

events has created much of the existing riparian habitat conditions found within the analysis area. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Fisheries Project File, considers and describes 

proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in 

Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on westslope cutthroat 

trout and torrent sculpin are not included in this section but are discussed in the fisheries cumulative 

effects worksheet. Those activities that cumulatively affect westslope cutthroat trout and torrent 

sculpin will be discussed below. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1) and associated activities have 

modified some habitat within the existing RHCAs found within the Trego Analysis Area. In addition, 

some of the past actions such as stream crossings have been a chronic source of sediment delivery 

to channels. Through the inclusion of more recent design criteria and BMPs to timber harvest and 

road construction projects, impacts to riparian habitat and channels have been reduced and or 

improved. These design criteria and BMPs would be applied to all future proposed vegetation 

management and road proposals. Potential vegetation management proposals include a small sales 

in response to the current Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest 

Plan direction. It is expected that there will be some Blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not 

expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and activities would follow the Forest-wide 

Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. Timber harvest (intermediate silvicultural prescriptions) 

associated with the 1996 Trego EA would also be completed. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable 

salvage harvest and associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively 

contribute minimal amount of sediment delivery to associated drainages. 

As identified earlier, no proposed alternative would raise cumulative peak flows at the downstream 

boundary of the Trego Analysis Area. The Fortine and Swamp analysis areas drain into Fortine 

Creek within the upper portion of the Trego Analysis Area. Fortine and Swamp analysis areas also 

have proposed timber harvest and road construction. Peak Flow increases resulting from the 

implementation of proposed activities in all three analysis areas would not exceed allowable 

increases for Fortine Creek. Sediment delivery from the Fortine and Swamp Analysis Areas would 

not be discernable within the Trego Analysis Area and cumulatively, sediment flowing out of the 
Fisheries

Trego EA 3-89 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Trego Analysis Area would not be discernable downstream of the analysis area. 

Road maintenance: Road maintenance is an ongoing activity on National Forest land throughout 

the Trego Analysis Area. Road maintenance would follow BMPs identified in the Soil and Water 

Conservation Handbook and INFS direction. It is expected that the amount of road maintenance 

(approximately 20 miles) would remain stable over the next 10 years. 

Road blading helps maintain proper drainage for the road system. Blading of the inside ditch of the 

road would generate short-term sediment delivery while maintaining long-term road stability. Culvert 

cleaning also maintains long-term culvert stability at the expense of short-term sediment delivery. 

However, most of the short-term sediment delivery settles before reaching live channels. Ongoing 

and reasonably foreseeable road maintenance activities within the Trego Analysis Area would 

cumulatively contribute minor effects to riparian vegetation and structure, peak flows, sediment 

delivery, or water quality within the analysis area. However, in the long term, road maintenance 

reduces the risk of road failures that can contribute large quantities of sediment to live channels. 

Road maintenance on State and private land is considered a minor activity. Road maintenance on 

State land also follows Best Management Practices. With the limited amount of road maintenance on 

private and State lands, potential effects to the aquatic environment would be minimal. 

Range Management: The Trego Analysis Area provides range for two grazing allotments: Trego 

and Swamp/Fortine. The analysis area encompasses the entire Trego Allotment and only about 13% 

of the Swamp/Fortine Allotment. From June 5 to September 30, 267 AUMs (76 cows/calves) graze 

within the analysis area. The South End Range EA, which follows Forest Plan direction, provides 

direction for the management of this allotment. Several projects to restrict cattle concentrations in 

riparian habitat were identified in the South End Range EA and are planned to be completed. 

Grazing impacts to stream channels are localized and primarily limited to areas where human 

activities have provided easy access to water. These areas included roads within RHCAs, stream 

crossings, and past riparian timber harvest. 

Range management and identified resource enhancement work would facilitate better distribution of 

cattle grazing throughout the analysis area. Completion of range improvement work can create shortterm disturbances to aquatic species, but would improve habitat for fish over the long term. Current 

range management emphasis is to protect disturbed sites through salting, herding, and restricting 

cattle access through the arrangement of slash and wood material. Ongoing and reasonably 

foreseeable cattle grazing and range management within the Trego Analysis Area would 

cumulatively contribute localized and minor losses in riparian vegetation and minor short-term 

increases in sediment delivery. Completion of resource enhancement work is dependent on 

availability of funding. 

As the allotment does not include private or State land leases, cattle are generally herded away from 

these lands, especially if resource conflicts arise. 

Private land development: To date, there have been 1038 acres of permanent land clearing; 849 

acres of regeneration harvest; 2498 acres of intermediate harvest; and 62 miles of roads. This 

activity in association with natural events has created much of the existing landscape on nonnational forest lands. 

Land development including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of 

residences, and installation of improvements can create a variety of changes to the landscape. 

Depending on the magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of private land on 

the landscape, these activities can have varied effects including loss of riparian habitat and increase 

in sediment delivery to channels from vegetation clearing, ground disturbance, and road 

construction. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. However there is potential 

that the State would conduct salvage operations on approximately 833 acres. Ongoing timber 
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3-90 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

harvest on private land includes both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Private 

and State land represent approximately 30 percent of the Trego Analysis Area. In the last 10 years 

there has been 12 acres of regeneration harvest. In review of aerial photos and the average rate of 

past timber harvest, it is expected that 279 acres of regeneration harvest would occur on private land 

over the next 10 years. Over the next 10 years, 24 new residential sites are expected to be built 

within the analysis area. Associated with these new residential sites is approximately 6 miles of road 

construction. 

In consideration of the amount of non-national forest lands within the analysis area (approximately 

thirty percent), future activities on these lands have potential to impact riparian habitat and live 

channels. As identified earlier, most all of the private lands occur in the lower portion of the 

watersheds and along Fortine Creek. Non-national forest land supports most of the fish habitat within 

the analysis area. Since vegetation and road activities are regulated by State laws, it is expected that 

impacts to riparian habitat and potential increases in sediment delivery to live channels over the next 

10 years would be low. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

All alternatives would follow Forest Plan direction as modified by INFS. All alternatives would 

implement BMPs and the application of State Water Guidelines. Proposed activities are not 

expected to prevent the State of Montana from removing Fortine Creek and Lime Creek off their list 

of impaired streams (WQLS). None of the alternatives propose harvest or burning in RHCAs or 

increase peak flows above recommendations provided by the District Hydrologist. Proposed 

alternatives would not prevent the attainment of Riparian Management Objectives. Based on these 

factors, it is determined that all action alternatives are consistent with INFS and Forest Plan 

direction. 

Findings: In summary, it is expected that increases in peak flows would maintain channel shape and 

function and associated westslope cutthroat trout and torrent sculpin habitat. Predicted short-term 

increases in channel sediment would be minimal and non-detectable as it reaches Fortine Creek 

Minimal changes in channel substrate or associated habitat are expected from proposed activities. 

Instream water temperatures are not expected to increase. Riparian vegetation along occupied fish 

habitat would not be modified. There are no physical barriers between the analysis area and Lake 

Koocanusa. Fish studies by MFWP have shown that westslope have migrated from Lake Koocanusa 

to Fortine Creek. Torrent sculpin occupied the main Kootenai River before Libby Dam was 

constructed and is found downstream of the analysis area. Consequently, the proposed action 

alternatives may impact individuals but is not likely to cause a trend towards federal listing or 

loss of population viability for these local populations of hybridized westslope cutthroat trout and 

the torrent sculpin. This assessment constitutes the biological evaluation for these species. 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-91 

Wildlife Resources

The Kootenai National Forest provides habitat for over 300 different species of wildlife (KIPZ 

Analysis of the Management Situation, USDA Forest Service 2003b:), many of which occur on the 

Fortine Ranger District and within the Trego Analysis Area. The presence or absence of these 

wildlife species depends on the amount, distribution, and quality of each animal’s preferred habitat. 

In addition to habitat changes, many of these animals are impacted by hunting or trapping. 

Montana’s Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks (MFWP) regulates game animal populations. The 

Forest Service and the MFWP work together to ensure that an appropriate balance is maintained 

between habitat capability and population numbers. The Forest Service also works closely with the 

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) to assist in the recovery of animals listed under the Endangered 

Species Act (ESA). Proposed federal projects which have the potential to impact species protected 

by the ESA require consultation with the USFWS. 

For the purpose of this Environmental Assessment, a number of wildlife species were selected for 

detailed analysis. The species chosen represent a combination of fine filter (species specific) and 

coarse filter (management indicator species) analyses. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service requires 

that endangered, threatened, and proposed species be included in an effects analysis. The Regional 

Forester designates sensitive species. Any effects to sensitive species present or potentially present 

in a project area must be disclosed. Management Indicator species (MIS) are identified in the 

Kootenai Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service, 1987a) and represent a particular habitat or habitat 

complex. Each MIS represents a group of species that share common habitat components required 

for sustained growth and successful reproduction. Other species that would not be affected by any of 

the alternatives are reviewed, but not discussed in detail. The wildlife portion of this chapter is 

divided into five sections: 

A. Old Growth, Snag, and Down Wood Habitat 

B. Management Indicator Series (MIS) 

C. Sensitive Species 

D. Threatened, Endangered, and Proposed Species 

E. Neo-Tropical Migratory Birds 

The bounds of analysis for each species were determined using the viability analysis concepts 

described by Ruggiero et al. (1994). Species viability is tiered to the Forest-wide Conservation Plan 

(Johnson, 2004). 

The wildlife analyses include the affected environment (created by all past management practices 

and natural events); direct, indirect and cumulative effects of the proposed actions; and cumulative 

effects of reasonably foreseeable projects as displayed in Chapter 1. 

A. Old Growth Habitat 

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Management and characteristics of old growth and stand attributes necessary for a stand to be 

considered old growth are discussed and summarized in the KNF Forest Plan, Green and others 

1992, corrected 2/2005, Pfister et al. (2000), Kootenai Supplement No. 85 to FSM 2432.22 (1991), 

and Castaneda (2004). That information is incorporated by reference. Data sources to identify old 

growth stands include District Files and Surveys and the KNF Old Growth GIS layer. For the Trego 

Analysis Area, field verification of old growth stands was completed using old growth surveys. 

The KNF Plan identified the pileated woodpecker as the management indicator species for old 

growth habitat (USDA Forest Service, 1987a). For effects to old growth associate wildlife species, 

refer to the pileated woodpecker analysis in the Management Indicator Species (MIS) section of this 

document. 
Chapter 3 

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3-92 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Criteria used to compare the alternative impacts on old growth include: 

1) Acres of vertical structure removed. These are the acres of direct harvest in designated old 

growth. This includes both effective (DEFF) and replacement (DREP) old growth. 

2) Acres of harvest in undesignated effective old growth (UEFF). 

3) Road length built adjacent or through designated old growth (in feet). 

4) Number of proposed units adjacent to old growth. 

5) Acres of edge effect in old growth. 

6) Acres of interior habitat remaining in old growth. 

7) Acres of additional old growth designated. 

8) Acres treated to maintain old growth characteristics or trend toward old growth. 

9) Percent of designated old growth (DEFF/DREP) in the analysis area. 

Current edge effects were determined by buffering existing regeneration harvest units (TSMRS 

activity codes 4100-4134) that are < 30 years old and bordering old growth stands by 300 feet (three 

tree heights-Russell et.al. 2000: 134; Harris 1984: 110-111; Morrison et. al 1992: 84; Province of BC 

1995: App. 1, and Ripple et.al. 1991: 79). On the Kootenai the average old growth tree height across 

old growth types is 100 feet (KNF TSMRS). Effects of alternatives were determined by using the 

same buffer on proposed regeneration units that border old growth stands. 

The analysis boundary for direct, indirect and cumulative impacts is the Trego Analysis Area. 

Affected Environment 

Existing conditions are a result of historic timber harvest and wildfires. Timber harvest and fire history 

are discussed in the Trego Ecosystem Assessment (USDA Forest Service, 2004a), and the 

vegetation and fire sections of this document. Old growth surveys within the Trego Analysis Area 

show 1939 acres of inventoried old growth (DEFF) or replacement old growth (DREP) in the Trego 

Analysis Area. All these acres are located below 5,500 feet in elevation. See Map 3-7, for location of 

old growth stands within the analysis area. Table 3-26 summarizes the designated and undesignated 

status of the old growth and designated old growth acres in the Trego Analysis Area and the 

Kootenai Forest-wide situation. 

Replacement old growth stands have many old growth characteristics, but not enough to be 

considered old growth currently. These stands are expected to become old growth in time. 

Table 3-26 also shows the minimum acres required to be designated to meet Forest Plan Standards. 

Designated old growth stands in the analysis area support the habitat conditions described in “Old 

Growth Forest Types of the Northern Region” (Green and others 1992, corrected 2/2005). 

The Trego Analysis Area lies below 5,500 feet and consists of 14,739 acres of NFS lands and 7264 

acres private land. The present allocations (see Table 3-26) in the Trego Analysis Area meet Forest 

Plan direction as clarified in FSM 2432.22. 

Old growth stands in the analysis area are mainly composed of Douglas fir, larch, and spruce as well 

as other conifers. Old growth management area designations in the analysis area were made to 

conserve the best old growth attributes available and to provide the best distribution, size, habitat 

type coverage, and quality of what is available. These old growth stands are physically connected to 

other old growth stands or older age classes where possible. 

Table 3-26. 

Old Growth Acres Under <5,500 Feet Elevation on NFS lands *Analysis Area and Forest-wide 

STATUS *Analysis Area 

Acres (Percent) 

Total NFS lands 14,739 

Kootenai 

National 

Forest 

Acres (Percent) 

Total NFS lands below 5,500 feet elevation 14,739 1,869,953 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-93 

Minimum acre designation required by Forest Plan 1,474 186,995 (10) 

DESIGNATED OG (MA13, or og MA) 

Designated effective old growth (DEFF) 1836.6 (12.4) 127,615 (6.8) 

Designated replacement growth (DREP) 102.3 (0.6) 57,379 (3.1) 

Designated unknown (KNF Forest Plan) 0 (0) 20,789 (1.1) 

Total designated (DEFF) and (DREP) old growth 1938.9 (13.1) 205,783 (11) 

UNDESIGNATED EFFECTIVE OG AND ROG 

Undesignated effective (UEFF) 1348.4 (9.1) 68,530 (3.7) 

Undesignated (DEFF) 0 (0) 38,418 (2) 

TOTALS FOR BOTH 

DESIGNATED AND UNDESIGNATED OG AND ROG

Total designated (DEFF) and undesignated effective (UEFF) OG 3185 (21.6) 196,538 (10.5) 

Total designated and undesignated replacement (DREP) OG 102.3(0.6) 95,797 (5) 

All old growth acres below 5,500 feet 3287.3 (22.3) 292,335 (15.6) 

Acres were updated in January 2005 for the Trego Analysis Area. Forest-wide acres as of October, 

2004. *Replacement old growth stands were designated to provide old growth in the future within the 

analysis area. 

Four additional old growth conditions are also discussed below to evaluate Old Growth Habitat: block 

size, distribution, stand structure, and disturbance. 

A. Block Size 

There are a total of 1836 acres designated for old growth management. These acres are in 5 

blocks ranging from 119 to 754 acres in size. All of the designated old growth blocks are greater 

than 50 acres in size. 

When undesignated OG is considered in conjunction with designated stands, there is a total of 

3287 acres in block sizes ranging from 43 to 1391 acres. All but one of the 8 blocks is greater 

than 50 acres in size. The larger blocks provide interior habitat and connectivity within the areas 

of National Forest lands. 

B. Distribution 

Table 3-27 shows the distribution and percentage of old growth (< 5,500’ elevation) by VRU 

type. Compared to the Kootenai National Forest historic range of variability (HRV), the 

percentage of old growth falling into the Warm/Dry VRU type in the Trego Analysis Area is within 

the HRV, and the percentage of old growth falling into the Cool/Moist VRU type is higher than 

the historic range of variability for the forest. The percentage of old growth in the Warm/Dry VRU 

is lower than the percentage of available Warm/Dry VRU types in the analysis area. Conversely, 

the percentage of old growth in the Cool/Moist VRU is higher than the percentage of available 

cool/moist VRU types in the analysis area. The majority of the lower elevation stands fall into the 

Warm/Dry VRU’s. Many of these lower elevation stands were easy to access and were logged 

historically. 

Table 3-27. 

Old Growth (<5,500’ elevation) Distribution by VRU on NFS Lands in the Analysis Area 

VRU 

TYPE 

Kootenai 

HRV 

% 

OG 

\1

Trego A.A. VRU 

Acres & (%) 

(NFS Lands 

 Only) 

Designated 

OG 

Acres 

(%) 

Undesignated 

Old Growth 

Acres 

(%) 

TOTAL OG 

(undesignated and 

designated) 

Acres 

(%) 

2 & *3 

Warm/Dry 15-40 7629 

(52) 

430 

(22) 

382 

(28) 

812 

(24) 

*7 & 9 

Cool/Moist 15-45 7007 (48) 

1558 

(78) 

997 

(72) 

2555 

(76) 
Chapter 3 

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3-94 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

\1 USDA Forest Service 1999: stands > 150 years old; *VRU in which the majority of the VRU type lies within 

These designated old growth stands represent the best distribution of old growth habitat that 

remains in the analysis area(following forest plan direction), recognizing that these areas and 

their boundaries may change due to natural events such as windstorms, epidemic insect 

infestations, and stand replacement fires. 

C. Stand Structure 

Old growth stand structure is described by Green and others 1992, corrected 2/2005). That 

information is incorporated by reference. In summary Green identifies three structural stages that 

are useful in describing old growth. They are late seral single story (e.g ponderosa pine, 

Douglas-fir, lodgepole sites); late seral multi-story (e.g. larch, whitepine) and near climax (e.g. 

cedar, grand fir, sub-alpine fir sites). Stands identified as old growth contain one of these 

structure stages described by Green. 

D. Disturbance 

Management activities (including timber harvest, road construction, mining etc.) have the 

potential to impact the function of old growth habitat or specific components of old growth, such 

as interior habitat and vertical structure. These activities may also allow noxious weed invasion. 

Timber harvesting can affect adjacent old growth stands by altering six microclimatic factors 

(solar radiation, soil temperature and moisture, air temperature, relative humidity and wind speed 

(Chen et. al. 1995). Microclimatic changes lead to vegetative changes (e.g. species richness, 

diversity, structure, composition) (Russell and Jones 2001). Changes in vegetative conditions 

may lead to effects such as changes in wildlife species using the area; species abundance and 

higher predation (Askins 2000: 120) (see pileated woodpecker analysis). All these effects extend 

varying distances into the uncut stands depending on a number of variables (e.g. aspect, slope, 

elevation, wind speed and direction, etc.). While there is no single answer to how wide the area 

influenced by edge is (Chen et.al. 1995), research (Harris 1984, Russell et. al. 2000, Morrison et. 

al. 1992, Ripple et.al. 1991; Province of BC 1995) has identified a three tree height rule of thumb 

as the distance effects occur. Table 3-28 below displays the acres of old growth influenced by 

edge effects. The depth of influence is also related to time since harvest, with effects dissipating 

within 20 to 50 years, depending on the variable measured (e.g. solar radiation, species 

richness) (Russell and Jones 2001, Ripple et.al. 1991, Russel et.al 2000). In the Trego Analysis 

Area, average tree growth in regeneration units result in tree heights (20-50 feet) and densities 

(fully stocked stands) that reduce the depth of influence from edge effects after thirty years. 

There are five old growth blocks adjacent to 19 existing regeneration units (stands < 30 years 

old). These units create an edge influence on about 223 acres of old growth. This edge influence 

will be reduced over the next 15-30 years depending on the age of the existing regeneration unit. 

While changes in vegetation and wildlife use may occur on the acres influenced by edge, those 

acres remain functional old growth for some species. The old growth acres not impacted by edge 

effects provide interior habitat. The percentage of interior habitat provided still maintains over 

10% old growth within the analysis area. 

Within existing designated old growth there are a total of 5.59 miles of local roads. Of these 

miles, 1.03 miles are restricted seasonally, 4.0 miles are restricted yearlong, 0.56 miles are open 

year-round, and there are no miles of motorized trail. These roads either bisect or are adjacent 

to old growth stands. Roads allow for potential access by firewood cutters to remove standing 

snags. 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-95 

Environmental Consequences 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

• No new roads or temporary roads would be constructed through designated or undesignated 

old growth stands in any action alternative. 

• All action alternatives would decommission 1.12 miles of road segments within or adjacent 

to old growth and restrict yearlong .9 miles of road segment within or adjacent to old growth. 

These proposed road restrictions would eliminate firewood gathering on 2.02 miles of road 

within and adjacent to old growth habitat. Consequently, the availability of snag habitat 

would be maintained and improved over the long term in these areas. 

• Along roads that are open to motorized vehicles, old growth habitat would be signed/posted 

to reduce the loss of snags and large down wood through firewood gathering. 

• A number of design criteria and/or monitoring items would be implemented to maintain and 

improve snag habitat. Identified tasks include: the retention of snags and dead merchantable 

trees; retention of live cull and dead-top trees; retention of fire killed trees; retention of 

reserve trees; inoculating live trees with heart-rot pathogens to create live snags over the 

long term; provide for large woody material; and monitoring snag levels. 

• Ground disturbing activities in or adjacent to old growth may result in noxious weed invasion. 

The project design in all action alternatives includes measures to reduce this potential risk 

(e.g. washing equipment). 

A. Block Size

• None of the action alternatives propose to harvest or burn within designated MA 13 old 

growth habitat. Consequently, all action alternatives would maintain the existing number of 

blocks and block size for the designated old growth. All blocks remain larger than 50 acres 

in size. All action alternatives would also maintain the existing block size of undesignated 

old growth habitat. 

B. Distribution

• None of the action alternatives change the distribution and percentage of old growth by 

VRU type. 

C. Stand Structure

• All alternatives maintain the existing stand structure of 13.1 percent designated old growth 

within the analysis area. No additional old growth acres are added. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect Effects

Table 3-28 below displays a comparison of effects to old growth habitat by alternative. These criteria 

are discussed under each alternative. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-96 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Table 3-28. Summary of Measurement Criteria to Evaluate Effects to Old Growth 

Measurement Criteria Alt. A Existing 

Condition Alt. B Alt. C Alt. D 

Acres of vertical structure removed in designated old growth 

and designated replacement old growth (DEFF/DREP) 0 0 0 0 

Acres of vertical structure removed in undesignated effective 

old growth (UEFF) 0 36 0` 36 

Road length (in miles) existing or built adjacent/through 

DEFF/DREP 

5.59 (local) 

existing 

0 

built 

0 

built 

0 

built 

Number of proposed regeneration harvest units adjacent to 

DEFF/DREP 0 1 0 2 

Acres of edge influence in DEFF/DREP 223 251 223 258 

Acres of interior habitat remaining in DEFF/DREP 1727 1699 1727 1692 

Acres of additional old growth designated 0 0 0 0 

Acres treated to maintain OG or trend stand toward OG 0 0 0 0 

Percent of designated old growth in Analyis Area (DEFF + 

DREP) 13.1 13.1 13.1 13.1 

D. Disturbance 

Treatments are proposed in undesignated effective old growth (UEFF) in Alternatives B and D. 

These alternatives both propose an intermediate harvest in 36 acres of an undesignated effective 

old growth stand (Unit 37). Unit 37 is a mixed Douglas-fir/western larch stand that has been 

undergoing mortality caused by the Douglas-fir beetle. Aerial photos from 1998 show mortality 

occurring at that time. This mortality has continued to occur, as verified by intensive stand exams in 

this particular stand in 2002 and 2005. The proposed harvest would remove some of the trees that 

have been affected by the Douglas-fir beetle in the stand, but would still retain the old growth 

characteristics within the entire stand. Alternative C does not propose any treatments in 

undesignated effective old growth (UEFF). 

Alternatives B and D propose regeneration harvest units that lie adjacent to old growth and 

replacement old growth blocks. This results in an additional edge influence on the existing blocks of 

old growth of 28 acres in Alternative B and 35 acres in Alternative D (See Table 3-28). The 

interior habitat remaining would still meet the 10% old growth required for the Trego Analysis Area. 

No regeneration harvest units are proposed adjacent to old growth and replacement old growth 

blocks in Alternative C. Therefore no edge influence is created and the acres of interior habitat 

remain the same as the existing condition (See Table 3-28). 

Alternatives B and D propose underburning within 224 acres of undesignated effective old growth 

(UEFF). The purpose of the underburning is to reduce fuel loading and ladder fuels that have grown 

in due to fire suppression. The outcome would be the maintenance of all old growth structure and 

function in the treated areas. Alternative C does not have any proposed underburning within old 

growth. There would be patches within the stands, that, without underburning, would grow thicker 

with small trees growing in. Over a longer time period, this could disrupt the dry-site old growth 

structure and function, but in the next 10 years, these stands would still provide the habitat required 

for dry-site old growth species. 

All alternatives propose to convert 2.5 miles of an old road into a system trail. Of the 2.5 miles of 

road, 1.57 of these miles either bisects or lies adjacent to old growth. This proposed trail system 

would be managed differently by alternative. Alternative B would allow non-motorized use only with 

the exception of allowing snowmobiles. Alternative C would allow non-motorized use only and 

restrict snowmobiles. Alternative D would allow motorized use (ATV, motorcycles, snowmobiles) on 

this trail. By allowing snowmobiles on a road system that was previously grown in at its origination, 

Alternatives B and D could increase the trapping vulnerability risk for species that may be using 

these old growth areas. All alternatives would allow no motorized use during hunting season as this 

area is within the Walk-In-Hunting Area. Little edge effect is expected along the miles of road within 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-97 

or adjacent to old growth, because the majority of this portion of the trail would require no clearing. 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Effects 

This alternative would have no direct effect on designated old growth or associated plant and wildlife 

species (also see pileated woodpecker discussion). The conditions for all nine measurement criteria 

(See Table 3-28) would remain unchanged. No old growth would be treated through timber harvest 

or prescribed burning. There would be no risks from these activities, such as soil compaction, weed 

introduction, or modification of stand structure. All old growth areas would maintain their existing 

conditions, and continue to provide habitat for those species which utilize the area over a long term. 

Existing conditions include the effects of edge from adjacent regeneration units, and open roads 

running through or adjacent to old growth stands. 

Fire suppression over the last century has altered stands historically maintained by fire disturbance. 

The affected stands have developed fuel loading and ladder fuels that are uncharacteristic for some 

sites. These conditions would continue to accrue until a natural disturbance occurs. Potential natural 

disturbances (wildfire, insect or disease epidemics, wind) could reduce old growth characteristics or 

completely remove an area of old growth under extreme conditions. While these events might occur, 

extreme conditions are not predictable so it cannot be said, with reasonable certainty, whether or not 

these events would have more or less effect than the action alternatives. 

The most recent forest-wide old growth analysis concludes that at least 10% of the KNF below 5,500 

feet elevation is designated for old growth management. This alternative would not affect the 10% 

standard for old growth at either the analysis area or forest scale. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS OF ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

Past road construction projects, tree harvest, fire suppression, and natural events have created the 

existing habitat conditions for old growth dependent species. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Wildlife Project File, considers and describes 

proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in 

Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on old growth habitat or 

associated species are not included in this section. Those activities that cumulatively affect old 

growth habitat or associated species include firewood gathering and private land development 

and are discussed below.

Firewood gathering: Firewood gathering on National Forest land is a permitted use that occurs 

along all open roads except within MA 13 Old Growth areas. Many of the designated old growth 

stands located along open roads have been signed to prohibit firewood gathering. As some of the 

old growth associated species also use other adjacent habitat, loss of snags in these areas can 

affect habitat suitability. Outside of designated old growth habitat, the availability of snags and down 

woody material would be reduced along the road influence zone. The Available Snag Habitat (ASH) 

model accounts for this decrease in snags along open roads and reflects this in the ASH levels 

reported. Firewood gathering can also cause minor short-term localized displacement to species 

using the area. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable firewood gathering activities within the Trego 

Analysis Area would cumulatively result in localized and minor effects on snag habitat and 

associated wildlife species. 

Firewood gathering on State and private land is generally considered a minor activity. It was 

assumed that the same level of firewood gathering occurs on State and private land; so potential 

effects to snags would be minor. The level of firewood gathering is expected to remain fairly stable 

over the next 10 years. 
Chapter 3 

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3-98 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Land development, 

including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and installation 

of improvements, as well as vegetation management, can create a variety of changes to the 

landscape. Depending on the magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of 

private land on the landscape, these activities can have varied effects, including habitat loss, 

increase in fragmentation, and localized disturbance on old growth associated species. Because of 

past disturbances, nesting habitat is assumed to be limited on private land. Because of the territory 

requirements of some species, private land can provide additional feeding habitat opportunities. 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres for 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. Associated with this could be approximately 6 miles of road construction. 

Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these activities could take 

place in a spatially dispersed manner across the analysis area. Development of private lands within 

the analysis area would reduce the amount of foraging habitat for some old growth associated 

species 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Because of the existing roads, the amount of new road construction 

associated with the possible harvest is expected to be minor. Both state and private landowners 

generally restrict public use on their roads. Given the relatively small percentage of area treated over 

the next 10 years, these activities would contribute minor effects to foraging habitat to old growthdependent species. 

All activities on private may result in the loss of foraging opportunities for some old growth 

associated species. However, given the amount of old growth on Forest Service lands, as well as 

other Forest Service stands that provide foraging habitat, this should not be a limiting factor for old 

growth dependant species within the analysis area. The action alternatives, in combination with other 

proposed and reasonably foreseeable Forest Service, State and private activities would maintain the 

designated management level of old growth. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

All alternatives are consistent with Forest Plan direction to maintain a minimum of 10% old growth 

below 5,500 feet in elevation in each third order drainage or compartment, or a combination of 

compartments (Kootenai Supplement No 85., Supplement to FSM 2432.22). 

Based on April 26th, 2004 Direction (Castaneda, 2004), old growth will be analyzed on the planning 

subunit scale (analysis area). After implementation of the action alternatives, the Trego Analysis 

Area will have 13.1% designated old growth below 5,500 feet elevation. In addition, 1348 acres of 

undesignated effective old growth (UEFF) would remain. The current Forest-wide assessment 

(Johnson, 2006) shows that the Kootenai National Forest has 11.5% old growth designated. The 

Kootenai Forest Plan established that maintaining 10% of old growth habitat is sufficient to support 

viable populations of old-growth dependent species (Vol. 1, II-1, 7, III-54; Vol. 2, A17). 

All alternatives are consistent with Forest Plan direction found on III-54-57. 

AA. Snag Habitat 

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Snag surveys in the Trego Analysis Area cover the majority of the stands in the analysis area 

(includes supplemental plots to the stand exam survey, old growth and post harvest activity surveys). 

These surveys recorded snags in diameter classes based on wildlife habitat needs. 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-99 

Thomas (1979: 72-75) was used to determine the percent of the Potential Population Level (PPL) to 

maintain primary cavity excavator populations (snag level % times % of area with that snag level). 

The analysis process was based on the field data and applied as a worse case scenario. Old growth 

stands provide 100% snag level as do untreated forest stands (Tincher 1998). Partial cut stands 

provide at least 60% snag level (Johnson and Lamb 1999), except on the Fortine Ranger District 

where Tincher (1998) found that partial cuts retained a similar snag level as untreated forest stands. 

Regeneration units provide 0-80% snag level. The percent varies mostly by period of harvest (prevs. post Forest Plan, 1987). Units harvested prior to Forest Plan and those planned pre-1987 but 

harvested thru 1992 basically provide no cavity habitat structures (Johnson and Lamb 1999). Post 

1987 Forest Plan, (1993-2002) harvest units provide at least 40% snag level (USDA Forest Service, 

2003a). Road prisms provide 0% snag level. Roads prisms account for 4 acres per mile (average 33 

feet wide times 5,280 feet per mile divided by 43,560 square feet per acre). There is no difference in 

snag density adjacent to open versus closed roads (Bate and Wisdom 2004). While some snags are 

lost, due to firewood cutting, within 200 feet of open roads, Tincher (1998) shows this “buffer” area 

still provides at least a 40% (Range 40-80%) snag level. Bate and Wisdom (2004) also shows that 

snag densities were lower as you come closer to a town. Forest-wide, visual observations suggest 

snag levels adjacent to roads can be as low as zero. Since firewood cutting is allowed from any open 

road except in posted areas, retention of snags within 200 feet of the road over time is highly 

unlikely. Therefore, a worst case scenario was used where roads were buffered by 200 feet on each 

side to account for total snag loss. This results in zero potential on an additional 49 acres per mile of 

road (400’ buffer total width x 5,280’ per mile divided by 43,560 square feet/acre – rounded to next 

whole acre). Using the information above, a model is used to calculate the snag level percentage by 

VRU in the Trego Analysis Area. 

The Kootenai Forest Plan recommends applying minimum cavity excavator Potential Population 

Levels (PPL) on a drainage or compartment basis at the following levels: maintain at least 40% of 

the PPL throughout commercial forest lands, and maintain at least 60% of the PPL in riparian areas 

(USDA Forest Service, 1987a). These recommended percentages equate to snag levels of 

approximately 0.9 snags per acre for the 40% PPL, and 1.35 snags per acre for the 60% PPL. Due 

to the need to provide a continuous supply of snags over time, there is also a need to designate 

green trees as snag replacements. Usually 2 replacements are needed for every snag needed 

(USDA Forest Service 1987a: A 16-11). This results in the general recommendation of 1-2 snags 

and 2-4 snag replacements per acre or a total of 3-6 per acre. The Forest Plan riparian standards, as 

amended by the Inland Native Fish Strategy (INFISH) (USDA Forest Service 1995), provide 

adequate snags and replacement trees to meet the riparian 60% SL standard. Therefore the 

following analysis focuses on the general forest standard of 40% PPL. 

New science (e.g. Bull et.al 1997), since the 1987 KNF Forest Plan, has been incorporated into the 

Northern Region Snag Protocol (USDA Forest Service, 2000). This protocol used the forest inventory 

analysis data for 1988 to 1995 to estimate snag numbers by Vegetative Response Unit (VRU). The 

protocol further recommends Forests use local data to fine tune the protocol recommended snag 

management levels. The Interior Columbia Basin Ecosystem Management Plan (DEIS, Appendix 

12) (USDA Forest Service et. al 2000b) also provides new data on snags. Like the R1 Snag protocol, 

the ICBEMP document recognizes the need to use local data to fine tune recommended snag 

management levels. The Kootenai NF has established optional snag management levels based on 

local data (Johnson 2005). These snag levels require more snags than the KNF Forest Plan snag 

standards require and were therefore used in this analysis. 

For this analysis, the Trego Analysis Area was broken into two VRU clusters: warm/dry and 

cool/moist. Acres of regeneration harvest, acres of forested land without regeneration harvest, acres 

of natural opening, and miles of roads were then used to calculate the existing snag levels as well as 

the predicted snag levels by alternative. These numbers were then used to estimate the PPL for the 

Trego Analysis Area. 

The pileated woodpecker is the MIS for snags (USDA Forest Service, 1987a) (See MIS Section). 

The Forest Plan assumption is that effects of a proposed action on MIS can be correlated to effects 

on other species with similar habitat requirements. As habitat for MIS species is being maintained, it 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-100 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

is assumed that sufficient habitat, such as snags and other snag associated species are also being 

maintained. 

The effect indicators for snag and down wood habitat are: 1) population potential level percentage by 

analysis area; and 2) acres treated that reduce snag and down wood levels.

The analysis boundary for direct, indirect and cumulative on snags is the Trego Analysis Area. This 

size is sufficient to cover home range sizes of species associated with snag and down wood habitat 

structure. 

Affected Environment 

Historically, within the dryer VRU’s, Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine snags and live culls provided a 

majority of the cavity habitat, with fire resistant ponderosa pine providing most of the large (>19" dbh) 

snags and live culls. VRU 3 has a higher component of larch snags and culls, which provides an 

important feature for primary excavators and secondary cavity nesters. The moister VRU’s also have 

a component of larch snags in the early and late seral forest condition, with cedar and grand-fir also 

providing cavity habitat. The number of snags per acre (>10"dbh) likely approached 5-10 snags per 

acre within all VRU's. Fire suppression and certain logging practices have changed the amount and 

distribution of these components across the landscape (USDA Forest Service 2000). 

Snags, broken topped live trees, live cull trees, and down logs are used by a great variety of wildlife 

species for nesting, denning, perching, roosting, feeding, and shelter. On the Kootenai National 

Forest, forty-two species of birds, fourteen species of mammals, and several species of amphibians 

are recognized as largely dependent on cavity habitat (snags and down wood). 

Based on the best available local data that produced the 100% Population Potential Level (PPL) in 

Johnson (2005) and site specific snag data from the Trego Analysis Area, the current snag habitat 

situation is summarized in Table 3-29. 

Table 3-29. Snag Management Levels (10”+ dbh) by VRU (grouped by Warm/Dry, and Cool/Moist) on 

NFS Lands and associated Population Potential Level 

Habitat 

Component 

Acres in Trego 

Analysis Area 

% of 

Trego 

Analysis 

Area 

Existing 

Snags 

Per acre 

(>10”) 

Snags 

per acre 

100% 

level *1

Snag 

Level 

(%) by 

VRU *2

Population 

Potential 

Level (PPL) 

% *3

VRU’s 2 & 3 

Warm/Dry 7629 52% 3.7 6 63% 33% 

VRU’s 5, 7 

Cool/Moist 7007 48% 6.8 12 57% 27% 

Sum of column 

above (where 

applicable) 

14,636 100% NA NA NA 60% 

*1 - Based on snag levels from Johnson 2005; *2 - snag level % by VRU comes from running the snag model; 

*3 - Percent of Trego Analysis Area times VRU snag level % = proportionate population potential level. Sum of 

VRU PPLs = PPL for entire Trego Analysis Area (Federal Land). 

The Douglas-fir beetle has been active in some of the stands in this analysis area and have resulted 

in salvage harvest activities (please refer to the cumulative effects section and the vegetation 

section). The existing PPL on NFS lands in the Trego Analysis Area is calculated at 60% (See Table 

3-29 above). This Potential Population Level meets current Forest Plan direction. 

Forest-wide cavity excavator potential population level was shown to be 88.7% in the 1997 Forest 

Plan Monitoring Report (USDA Forest Service 1998). The 2002 Report (USDA Forest Service 

2003a) shows 95% of the compartments monitored meet or exceed Forest Plan standards for PPL 

and that Forest-wide the 40% PPL is being met. Forest riparian standards, as amended by INFS, 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-101 

assure the 60% level is being met in those areas. 

Environmental Consequences 

Available snag habitat was calculated on a VRU basis within the Trego Analysis Area (see existing 

condition above). Habitat analysis will analyze how the proposed treatments affect snag habitat and 

meet Forest Plan direction. 

Direct and indirect effects on snag habitat and associated species are described below for proposed 

activities and for other resource enhancement projects identified in Chapter 2. Cumulative effects 

were considered for all past, current and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1 and are 

described at the end of this section. 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

• All action alternatives meet Forest Plan standards for retaining at least 40% available snag 

habitat (at least one snag per acre). Many of the largest snags occur within the Old growth 

stands which are well-distributed across the landscape. The proposed regeneration units are 

also well-distributed. 

• The proposed silvicultural treatments are expected to maintain different levels of snags after 

treatment and site preparation. Intermediate harvests are expected to maintain a similar 

number of snags as an untreated stand, based on the data from Tincher, 2003 showing the 

number of snags left in intermediate harvests. The regeneration harvests are expected to 

maintain 40% available snag habitat. 

• Regeneration harvest would result in a long-term (50-100 years) site-specific reduction in 

suitable cavity habitat for species (e.g. pileated woodpeckers) that do not utilize open areas 

for nesting. In the long-term, the green reserve trees would be retained in regeneration units 

(See Design Criteria, Table 2-10) to provide nesting habitat as the new forest develops into a 

mature stand. 

• Underburning and excavator piling are treatments proposed to reduce existing fuels and/or 

harvest-generated slash. Underburning has the potential to reduce cavity habitat because 

standing snags can burn up or the bases can burn through, causing them to fall over. Down 

logs are sometimes partially or wholly consumed by fire. At the same time, underburning 

also has the potential to create new snags if a green residual tree is killed by fire. The loss or 

gain of cavity habitat varies widely, and depends on conditions (e.g. weather, fuel loads, and 

fuel moisture) present when units are under burned. Excavator piling and burning would 

have less potential for loss or gain of cavity habitat because the burn treatment would be 

concentrated in pile areas, and piles would generally be located away from snags and leave 

trees. 

• Management activities that could reduce snags in riparian areas are restricted by Riparian 

Habitat Conservation Area (RHCA) standards and guidelines (USDA Forest Service, 1995b). 

For the proposed activities, this would result meeting the riparian standard for snag levels 

(60%). 

• A number of Design Criteria listed in Chapter 2, Table 2-10 as well as Resource 

Enhancement Projects (Table 2-1) would be implemented to maintain and improve snag 

habitat. Identified tasks include: the retention of snags and dead merchantable trees; 

retention of live cull and dead-top trees; retention of fire killed trees; retention of reserve 

trees; signing old growth areas to prevent firewood harvest in these areas; inoculating live 

trees with heart-rot pathogens to create snags over the long term; and monitoring snag 

levels. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-102 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

• All action alternatives will decommission a total of 12.47 miles of road within the analysis 

area. An additional 7.16 miles of road would be restricted year-long for a total of 19.63 miles 

of road. Of these road miles, 2.02 miles of road segments are within or adjacent to MA13 old 

growth habitat which would eliminate firewood gathering within and adjacent to old growth 

habitat as well as in stands supporting snags along these roads. Consequently, the 

availability of snag habitat would be maintained and improved over the long term in 

associated stands. 

• No new road construction would occur in any action alternative. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Implementation of the action alternatives would have direct effects on snag habitat. Table 3-30 

summarizes those project activities that would change snag levels. Also see Table 3-31 below for the 

changes in PPL. 

Table 3-30. Acres of Project Activities that impact Snag Level by Alternative 

Project Activity 

Alt. A Existing 

Condition 

(No Action) 

Alt. B Alt. C Alt.D 

Regeneration Harvest Acres NA 390 299 675 

Year-round Road Closures/Decommisioning in miles 0 17.94 17.94 17.94 

Prescribed Fire in acres * NA 730 458 730 

* Acres treated with prescribed fire may increase and/or decrease snag levels 

Regeneration harvest in all action alternatives would reduce snag availability specific to the unit areas, and 

use would change from those species requiring snags with nearby live tree cover (e.g. pileated 

woodpeckers) to those which will use snags in open sites (e.g. bluebirds, northern flicker, flycatchers). 

Alternative D changes the most acres while Alternative C changes the least amount of acres. 

Regeneration harvest can potentially impact long-term cavity habitat, since fewer trees are left on site to be 

recruited as snags or snag replacements. 

The subsequent proposed prescribed under burning would reduce the small diameter Douglas-fir 

encroachment, and any trees that may be killed during the burning would result in the creation of 

snags. Additionally, fire may facilitate decay in surviving trees by proving an entry point for fungi, 

which increases the likelihood that the trees will be used by cavity excavators (Smith et al. 2000). 

Alternatives B and D propose the same number of acres of prescribed fire while Alternative C

proposes almost 300 acres less than Alternatives B and D.

Site preparation burning as well as prescribed fire on non-harvest units may result in some fire killed 

trees and subsequent new snag feeding/nesting sites. Within regeneration and intermediate harvest 

units, retention of all snags greater than 10" dbh and 10 feet in height is planned as long as all safety 

requirements are met (See Design Criteria, Table 2-10). This would help compensate for deficient 

snag numbers in existing harvest units. 

The following table shows the expected overall changes from existing snag levels by VRU group 

within the Trego Analysis Area with the implementation of Alternatives B, C and D. The changes in 

PPL from the existing condition result from the regeneration harvest which cause a decrease in snag 

levels, and the effects of road closures, which would cause an increase in PPL or snag levels over 

the long term. The effects for each alternative were broken into short-term and long-term effects 

reflected by the potential population level percentage. This reflects the proposed road 

decommissioning and restrictions common to all action alternatives (see Effects Common to All 

Action Alternatives above). This action would remove any firewood harvest in stands along these 

roads and would result, in the long term, in snag conditions in stands adjacent to these roads at 

100% PPL. In the short-term, the effects of past snag or potential snag removal from firewood 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-103 

harvest along the roads would persist until snags were again created naturally by beetles or fungi. 

Table 3-31. Snag Level (%) and Potential Population Level (PPL) by VRU Group by Alternative 

Snag Level (%) and PPL 

Alt. A 

(No 

Action) 

Alt B 

Short Term / 

Long Term 

Alt. C 

Short Term / 

Long Term 

Alt. D 

Short Term / 

Long Term 

KNF VRUs 

2 & 3 

 Warm/Dry *1 

63% 60% / 63% 61% / 63% 59% / 61% 

Potential Population Level 

(PPL) in Warm/Dry *2 33% 31% / 33% 32% / 33% 31% / 32% 

KNF VRUs 

5 &7 

Cool/Moist *1 

57% 56% / 59% 57% / 59% 55% / 58% 

Potential Population Level 

(PPL) in Cool/Moist *2 27% 27% / 28% 27% / 28% 26% / 28% 

Total PPL (%) within the Trego 

Analysis Area *3 60% 58% / 61% 59% / 61% 57% / 60% 

* 1 - Snag level % by VRU group comes from running the snag model; *2 - Percent of Trego Analysis Area 

times VRU Snag level % = proportionate population potential level. *3 - Sum of VRU PPLs = PPL for entire 

Trego Analysis Area (Federal Land). 

In the Trego Analysis Area, all action alternatives would maintain snag levels in the long term near 

the existing condition which would meet Forest Plan Standards of providing at least 40% snag levels 

following management activities. Total Potential Population Levels would be reduced by 1-3% in the 

short term and increased by 0-1% in the long term in the analysis area depending on the alternative 

(See Table 3-31). 

EFFECTS OF ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Under Alternative A, no harvest activities would be proposed, so no direct effect to snags through 

timber harvest is expected. The road closures to be implemented under the action alternatives would 

not occur with this alternative, so the long term benefits of maintaining and increasing snags along 

these roads, would not occur. The addition or loss of snags would be dependent on factors, such as 

firewood cutting, wind events, natural attrition or wildfire. The level of impact from these factors can 

not be calculated due to the high uncertainty in predicting occurrence and intensity levels. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS TO ALL ALTERNATIVES 

Past road construction projects, tree harvest, fire suppression, and natural events have created the 

existing snag habitat conditions. The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the snag habitat 

project file, considers and describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current and 

reasonably foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute 

indiscernible effects on addressed species or their habitat are not included in this section. Those 

activities that cumulatively affect the species or habitat will be discussed below. These activities 

include firewood gathering, private land development, and vegetation management. 

Firewood gathering: Firewood gathering on National Forest land is a permitted use that occurs 

along all open roads except within MA 13 Old Growth areas. Many of the designated old growth 

stands located along open roads have been signed to prohibit firewood gathering. As some of the 

old growth associated species also use other adjacent habitat, loss of snags in these areas can 

affect habitat suitability. Outside of designated old growth habitat, the availability of snags and down 

woody material would be reduced along the road influence zone. The Available Snag Habitat (ASH) 

model accounts for this decrease in snags along open roads and reflects this in the ASH levels 

reported. Firewood gathering can also cause minor short-term localized displacement to species 

using the area. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable firewood gathering activities within the Trego 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-104 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Analysis Area would cumulatively result in localized and minor effects on snag habitat and 

associated wildlife species. 

Firewood gathering on State and private land is generally considered a minor activity. It was 

assumed that the same level of firewood gathering occurs on State and private land; so potential 

effects to snags would be minor. The level of firewood gathering is expected to remain fairly stable 

over the next 10 years. 

Private land development: Land development, including the construction of roads, clearing of 

vegetation, construction of residences, and installation of improvements, can create a variety of 

changes to the landscape. Depending on the magnitude, type, and location of developments and the 

amount of private land on the landscape, these activities can have varied effects, including habitat 

loss, increase in fragmentation, and localized disturbance on old growth associated species. 

Nesting habitat is limited on private land. Because of the territory requirements of some species, 

private land can provide additional feeding habitat opportunities. 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres from 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. This would result in approximately 6 miles of road construction and 24 new 

homes constructed. Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these 

activities could take place in a fairly dispersed manner across the analysis area. Development of 

private lands within the analysis area could potentially reduce the amount of foraging habitat for 

some old growth associated species. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Because of the existing roads, the amount of new road construction 

associated with the possible harvest is expected to be minor. Both state and private landowners 

generally restrict public use on their roads. Given the relatively small amount of acres treated over 

the next 10 years, these activities would contribute minor effects to foraging habitat to old growth, or 

snag-dependent species. 

All activities on private may result in the loss of foraging opportunities for some old growth 

associated species. However, given the amount of old growth on Forest Service lands, as well as 

other Forest Service stands that provide foraging habitat, this should not be a limiting factor for snagdependant species within the analysis area. The action alternatives, in combination with other 

proposed and reasonably foreseeable Forest Service, State and private activities would maintain 

snag habitat for snag-dependant species. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities have 

created the existing habitat conditions (vegetation and roads) for snag-dependent species within 

Trego Analysis Area. One current timber sale project (Tree-Mag) is being implemented using 

intermediate harvest to thin overstocked stands. Fuel reduction would be accomplished through 

mechanical piling with associated pile burning. Two current timber harvest projects (Magnesia 

Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) are being implemented in response to the 

recent Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Post harvest activities include lop and scattering of slash. 

Direct and indirect effects from ongoing activities were discussed in their associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to snag dependent 

species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary roads would be closed 

to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-105 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Currrent and reasonably foreseeable vegetation management activities within the Trego Analysis 

Area would cumulatively contribute minor localized effects to snag-dependent species. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

All proposed units in Alternatives B, C and D maintain at least 40% snag level. No alternative 

causes the Trego Analysis Area overall PPL to drop below the general forest 40% primary cavity 

excavator potential population level. This is consistent with Forest Plan Standards. 

The KNF Forest Plan Monitoring and Evaluation Report (USDA Forest Service, 2003a) shows that 

sufficient snag habitat is found at a drainage or compartment level throughout the forest. All 

alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for management indicator species associated with snag 

habitat (refer to Old Growth Section). 

AAA. Down Wood Habitat 

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Down wood habitat is woody material derived from tree limbs, boles, and roots in various stages of 

decay (Graham et al. 1994), and performs many physical, chemical and biological functions in forest 

ecosystems. Coarse down wood habitat is generally defined as any down wood material larger than 

3 inches in diameter. The minimum piece size to qualify as a down “log” is 8 feet long with a largeend diameter of six inches or more (Bull et al. 1997). The ecological processes and functions of 

down wood material are discussed in many research papers (e.g. Bull et al. 1997; Graham et al 

1994; Maser and Trappe 1984; Maser et al 1988). These are incorporated by reference. 

Data sources for down wood habitat include District Surveys for old growth and surveys of existing 

regeneration units. The survey procedure for old growth, which includes the down wood survey, is 

discussed in the District’s Old Growth Process Paper. 

The analysis boundary for project direct effects is the treatment units. Cumulative effects are 

analyzed at the Trego Analysis Area scale. 

Affected Environment 

The Forest Plan directs that sufficient amounts of large down wood material be retained on site for 

wildlife habitat needs, nutrient release back into the soil, and site protection for timber stands 

regeneration. The current Forest Plan direction (USDA Forest Service, 1987a) is to meet 

Timber/Silviculture Guideline #9, which is to leave logs greater than 12” diameter scattered through 

out harvest units (a few pieces per acre). Five to 15 tons per acre is recommended. 

The project is designed to meet Guideline #9. Reserve trees are provided to assure future down 

wood habitat. 

Environmental Consequences 

 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS OF ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

In the short-term, this alternative would not change the current condition or availability of coarse 

woody debris within the Trego Analysis Area. Historical timber harvest has resulted in a decrease in 

the amount of coarse woody debris available in some existing regeneration units. 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

A number of Design Criteria listed in Chapter 2, Table 2-10 as well as Resource Enhancement 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-106 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Projects would be implemented to maintain and improve down woody and snag habitat. Identified 

tasks include: leave all large un-merchantable logs/acre (> 14” diameter and 20 feet in length) when 

available; the retention of snags and dead merchantable trees; retention of live cull and dead-top 

trees; retention of reserve trees; signing old growth areas to prevent firewood harvest in these areas; 

and inoculating live trees with heart-rot pathogens to create snags over the long term. 

The proposed fuel treatment/wildlife habitat enhancement units would retain adequate down wood. 

Spring burning prescriptions and conditions should allow for the maintenance of larger pieces of 

organic matter on the forest floor 

In proposed timber harvest units, other than regeneration units (e.g. seed tree removal), 

implementing recommended down wood material guidelines under all alternatives is expected to 

ensure the maintenance of adequate habitat. Implementation of Forest Plan snag guidelines would 

maintain some cavity habitat and subsequent down wood habitat recruitment to the forest floor over 

the next several decades. Application of these guidelines in all harvest units would ensure 

distribution of down wood material across the landscape. Any snag felled due to OSHA standards 

would be required to remain on site. The forest guideline to leave 5-15 tons/acre of 12”+ diameter 

down wood would be monitored as outlined in the Trego EA Monitoring Plan (Appendix C, page C1). 

Site preparation methods are similar between the action alternatives (please see Chapter 2 for the 

differences in acres between alternatives). Grappling piling of logging slash can more easily separate 

fine fuels from coarse wood material. Charred coarse wood material with checks and cracks does 

not substantially interfere with the decomposition or function of this material. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS TO ALL ALTERNATIVES 

Past road construction projects, tree harvest, fire suppression, and natural events have created the 

existing down wood habitat conditions. The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Snag 

Habitat Project File, considers and describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current and 

reasonably foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute 

indiscernible effects on addressed species or their habitat are not included in this section. Those 

activities that cumulatively affect the species or habitat will be discussed below. These activities 

include firewood gathering, private land development, and vegetation management. 

Firewood gathering: Firewood gathering on National Forest land is a permitted use that occurs 

along all open roads except within MA 13 Old Growth areas. Many of the designated old growth 

stands located along open roads have been signed to prohibit firewood gathering. As some of the 

old growth associated species also use other adjacent habitat, loss of snags in these areas can 

affect habitat suitability. Outside of designated old growth habitat, the availability of snags and down 

woody material will be reduced along the road influence zone. The Available Snag Habitat (ASH) 

model accounts for this decrease in snags along open roads and reflects this in the ASH levels 

reported. Firewood gathering can also cause minor short-term localized displacement to species 

using the area. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable firewood gathering activities within the Trego 

Analysis Area would cumulatively result in localized and minor effects on snag habitat and 

associated wildlife species. 

Firewood gathering on State and private land is generally considered a minor activity. It was 

assumed that the same level of firewood gathering occurs on State and private land; so potential 

effects to snags would be minor. The level of firewood gathering is expected to remain fairly stable 

over the next 10 years. 

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Land development, 

including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and installation 

of improvements, can create a variety of changes to the landscape. Depending on the magnitude, 

type, and location of developments and the amount of private land on the landscape, these activities 

can have varied effects, including habitat loss, increase in fragmentation, and localized disturbance 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-107 

on snag-dependent species. Nesting habitat is limited on private land. Because of the territory 

requirements of some species, private land can provide additional feeding habitat opportunities. 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres for 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. Associated with this could be approximately 6 miles of road construction. 

Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these activities could take 

place in a spatially dispersed manner. Development of private lands within the analysis area could 

potentially reduce the amount of foraging habitat for some snag or down wood dependent species. 

In review of aerial photos and average rate of past timber harvest, it is expected that 279 acres of 

regeneration harvest would occur on private land over the next 10 years. Road construction is 

expected to occur as part of the residential growth expected within the analysis area. 

Given the relatively small amount of acres treated over the next 10 years, these activities would 

contribute minor effects to foraging habitat to old growth, or snag-dependent species. 

All activities on private may result in the loss of foraging opportunities for some snag or down wood 

dependent species. However, given the amount of old growth on Forest Service lands, as well as 

other Forest Service stands that provide foraging habitat, this should not be a limiting factor for snagdependant species within the analysis area. The action alternatives, in combination with other 

proposed and reasonably foreseeable Forest Service, State and private activities would maintain 

snag habitat as well as down wood habitat for associated species. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities have 

created the existing habitat conditions (vegetation and roads) for snag-dependent species within 

Trego Analysis Area. One current timber sale project (Tree-Mag) is being implemented using 

intermediate harvest to thin overstocked stands. Fuel reduction would be accomplished through 

mechanical piling with associated pile burning. Two current timber harvest projects (Magnesia 

Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) are being implemented in response to the 

recent Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Post harvest activities include lop and scattering of slash. 

Direct and indirect effects from these ongoing activities were discussed in their associated BA’s and 

BE’s. A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to snag dependent 

species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary roads would be closed 

to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Currrent and reasonably foreseeable vegetation management activities within the Trego Analysis 

Area would cumulatively contribute minor localized effects to snag habitat and down wood habitat for 

associated species. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

There are no goals or standards for down wood habitat in the Kootenai Forest Plan. It does contain 

the goal to: “Maintain diverse age classes of vegetation for viable populations of all existing native, 

vertebrate, wildlife species.... (USDA Forest Service, 1987a; Vol. 1, II-1, Goal #7)”. The Kootenai 

Forest Plan provides guidelines in Appendix 16, Cavity Habitat Management (USDA Forest Service, 

1987b; Vol. 2, App. 16:6 - Guideline #9). All alternatives are consistent with the Kootenai Forest 

Plan, as a wide range of successional habitats, and associated amounts of down wood habitat would 

be available. 
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3-108 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

B. Management Indicator Species 

Based on direction found in the National Forest Management Act (219.19 (a)(1)), the Kootenai 

Forest Plan (FP) (1987, Appendix 12) identifies management indicator species (MIS), see Table 3-

32. The Forest Plan states, ”the maintenance of viable populations of existing native and desirable 

non-native vertebrate species, as monitored through indicator species, will be attained through the 

maintenance of a diversity of plant communities and habitats” (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, page II22). 

Table 3-32. Management Indicator Species 

SPECIES HABITAT 

REPRESENTED 

COMMENTS/ (where described in this 

document) 

Grizzly Bear 

(Ursus arctos) General Forest See T&E Section below 

Gray Wolf 

(Canis lupus) General Forest See T&E Section below 

Bald Eagle 

(Haliaeetus

leucocephalus) 

Rivers and Lakes See T&E Section below 

Peregrine Falcon 

(Falco peregrinus) Cliffs See Sensitive Species Section below 

Elk (Cervus elaphus) General Forest See MIS species Section below 

White-tailed Deer 

(Odocoileus

virginianus) 

General Forest See MIS Section below 

Mountain Goat 

(Oreamnos

americanus) 

Alpine 

No alpine habitat in analysis area. 

Mountain Goats not found in analysis 

area. Project will have no impact on Mtn. 

Goats. No further analysis required.

PileatedWoodpecker 

(Dryocopus pileatus) Snags, Old Growth See MIS Section below. See also Old Growth and Snag Habitat Sections. 

Elk and white-tailed deer are two MIS species that represent similar habitat. Summerfield (1991) 

recommends determining which big game species will be featured in a particular area, since species 

winter requirements differ. Based on Forest Plan direction, the biological potential of the area, state 

wildlife management objectives, and the information contained within the Kootenai Conservation Plan 

(Johnson 2004: Appendix H); an emphasis species was identified for this analysis. 

White-tailed deer were selected as the general forest indicator in the Trego Analysis Area because; 

1) the dominant ungulate species using this analysis area is white-tailed deer, 2) Montana 

Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks (MDFWP) and the Forest Service has identified white-tailed 

deer winter range in this analysis area; and 3) the joint task force of Kootenai National Forest and 

MDFWP (Johnson 2004) identified this analysis area as a low emphasis for elk management. 

1. White-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus)

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

In this analysis, white-tailed deer were selected as the management indicator species representing 

requirements in general forest habitat. Data sources used in the analysis for cover/forage, openings 

sizes, open road densities, movement corridors, and key habitat components include Montana Fish, 

Wildlife and Parks research and plans, District vegetation layers, INFRA road layers, Summerfield 

(1991), Baty (1995), Mundinger (1981), Morgan (1993), Lyon (1966), Thomas (1979), Mackie et al. 

(1998), and field surveys by District Biologists and data collection crews. The Trego Analysis Area 

and white-tailed deer subherd boundaries will be used to analyze general forest indicator species 

parameters and are sufficiently large enough to address potential effects of the proposed actions on 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-109 

white-tailed deer habitat at a landscape level. Population information is based on hunting district data 

provided by Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. The analysis area is within Hunting District #101. Population 

trends in Hunting District #101 indicate an increasing population growth (pers. comm. with Tim 

Thier). 

Cover/forage: An important consideration when evaluating big game habitat is the distribution of 

cover and forage within a given area. A cover-to-forage ratio describes the percentage of an area 

contained in each component. Forage openings are identified by a combination of TSMRS queries to 

determine type and age of past harvest and field visits to confirm areas in question. Cover is divided 

into hiding (vegetation capable of hiding 90 percent of an elk at 200 feet), and thermal cover. Forest 

Plan standards recommend a 70/30 ratio of cover to forage for white-tailed deer on summer and 

winter range. Cover/forage values will be displayed by management area (MA) to see how the 

existing condition and alternatives meet Forest Plan cover/forage recommendations. 

Thermal cover is a key component of winter range and consists of stands of timber greater than 40 

feet tall, with canopy closure of greater than 50 percent (Baty 1995) which reduces stress to animals 

during hot/cold weather extremes. One of the greatest values of thermal cover in Northwest Montana 

is snow interception. Snow intercept thermal cover becomes critical during severe winters as in 

1996-97. A panel of professional Kootenai National Forest and MDFWP Biologists developed 

recommendations including maintaining 50% thermal cover on winter range for white-tailed deer 

(Summerfield, 1991). TSMRS data queries, aerial photo reviews and field surveys were used to 

identify thermal cover in the analysis area. 

In order to differentiate how different groups of deer use the Fortine District, biological winter ranges 

were established by the District Biologist and Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks 

(MDFWP) officials. These White-tailed deer subherd boundaries were established based on 

knowledge of how deer use the district in the winter and used topographical boundaries. The Trego 

Analysis Area has portions of two subherds; the Fortine Subherd and the Rattlebone Subherd. 

Cover/forage values and thermal cover values will be displayed by white-tail deer subherd 

boundaries to see how the existing condition and alternatives meet the 70/30 cover/forage 

percentage and the 50 % thermal cover percentage recommendations in these winter range areas. 

The size, shape, and interspersion of cover and forage, as well as the position relative to landscape 

features (riparian zones, ridges, saddles, roads) greatly influences the use of these components by 

big game. Morgan (1993) concluded that riparian areas and adjacent uplands containing 

pole/immature timber were very important as centers of deer use in summer. Many of these habitat 

complexes were found between 1,100 and 1,700 meters in elevation on east to southeast aspects 

on the Tally Lake Ranger District of the Flathead National Forest. In this area, cutting units were 

determined to have minimal effect on white-tailed deer if located on northerly and westerly aspects, 

ridgetops, and other sites more than 750 meters from riparian habitat. 

Opening sizes: Opening sizes, as well as their shapes, are important factors in determining how 

much they will actually be used by big game. In general, forage utilization decreases when big game 

is required to venture more than 600 feet from cover (Thomas, 1979; 117). Forest Plan standards 

state that openings should generally not exceed 40 acres and preferably no larger than 20 acres for 

white-tailed deer on MA 11 winter range. Winter range typically consists of lower elevation mixed 

conifer stands with patch sizes resulting from stand-replacement events of 20-200 acres and 

occasional patches over 500 acres (USDA Forest Service, 1999). 

Open Road Density: Open road density (ORD) is the miles of open roads per square mile. The 

Kootenai Forest Plan identifies maximum ORD’s by management areas. The Trego Analysis Area 

consists mostly of MA 11 winter range and MA15 identified primarily for timber management but 

which function as summer range for big game. No maximum ORD was identified for winter range in 

the Forest Plan, however the guideline suggests that road use will generally be restricted during the 

winter season (December 1 – April 30). The maximum ORD for MA 15 is 3 miles of open road per 

square mile. 
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3-110 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Movement Corridors: In harvest and thinning areas, forested cover will be provided as movement 

corridors for wildlife in summer and winter range areas (Kootenai Forest Plan, MA 12 Wildlife 

Standard #7 and MA 11 Timber Standard #6). The Trego Analysis Area contains MA’s 11 and 15. 

As MA 15 functions as summer range, movement corridors will be analyzed within this area. A 

cover/forage map using District vegetation layers will provide a visual identification of movement 

corridors. 

Key Habitat Components: Wallows, wet meadows, and bogs will be avoided when constructing 

roads (USDA Forest Service, 1987; III-44, & 49). When these areas are located they will be mapped 

and managed as riparian areas. 

Affected Environment 

Cover/forage: Cover/forage ratios within the Trego Analysis Area meet Forest Plan standards in 

MA’s 11 and 15 (See Map 3-8). The existing cover/forage ratio within MA 11 is 86/14. As deer use 

the lower elevation winter range year-round, the entire Trego Analysis Area (excluding private land) 

was used to display a summer range cover/forage ratio of 81/19. In comparison to the desired 

cover/forage condition of 70/30, the current conditions provide more cover and less forage than 

recommended. 

The Trego Analysis Area contains two white-tailed deer winter range subherds. The Fortine Subherd

lies entirely with the Trego Analysis Area and has 4369 total acres which are mainly adjacent to or 

surrounded by private land. The cover/forage ratio within this subherd is 87/13. There are 1341 acres 

within this subherd that are currently estimated to function as snow intercept/thermal cover (31% of 

the subherd area). One hundred and fifty-six acres of the Rattlebone Subherd lies within the northern 

portion of the analysis area (See Map 3-8) with the rest of the subherd lying north of the analysis 

area. The cover/forage ratio within the entire subherd is 84/16. Currently 34% of this subherd 

functions as snow intercept/thermal cover. Because of the small percentage of this subherd that lies 

within the Analysis Area, effects analysis were calculated only for the Fortine Subherd. The existing 

condition cover/forage ratios within these subherds meet the cover/forage ratios for winter range in 

the Forest Plan, however, in comparison to the desired minimum of 50% thermal cover, the current 

condition does not provide the suitable thermal cover needed for those extreme weather conditions. 

The existing habitat conditions will continue to support the existing white-tailed deer populations 

during mild winters. It is suspected that during extreme weather conditions, the habitat will not 

support the current number of deer that use the Fortine Subherd area. 

Other white-tailed deer winter range subherds also lie adjacent to the Trego Analysis Area. The 

Dudley Subherd lies adjacent and northwest of the Trego Analysis Area. The cover/forage ratio 

within the Dudley Subherd is 73/27. Currently 63% of this subherd functions as snow 

intercept/thermal cover. The Murphy Lake Subherd lies north of the Rattlebone Subherd. Initial 

findings of a Northwest Montana white-tailed deer winter range study (Hoekman et. al. draft (2005)) 

show that the Murphy Lake Subherd received heavy use during the winter and is known as a key 

winter range area for white-tailed deer in Northwest Montana. 

Opening sizes: There are currently four existing openings that are greater than 20 acres in size 

within MA 11. It is expected that these openings will continue to grow trees and will provide hiding 

cover within the next 10-20 years. The distribution of available forage is good across the analysis 

area. Along with recently created forage openings, white-tailed deer will also forage on forbs and 

browse species under the tree canopy. 

Open Road Density: Current open road densities in the analysis area are 2.71 miles per square 

mile (mi/sq mi) in MA 11, and 2.64 mi/sq mi in MA 15. The desired condition is to stay at or below 

3.0 mi/sq mi in MAs 15 (USDA Forest Service, 1987; III-51, 65, 69, 75, 80). Road use is to generally 

be restricted during the winter season (Dec.1- April 30th) in MA 11, however the majority of the roads 

in MA 11 in this analysis area access private homes. A large portion of the Trego Analysis Area is 

part of the Sunday/Trego Walk-In-Hunting Area and is closed to motorized vehicles including overthe-snow vehicles from October 15th through November 30th. Morgan (1993) reported that roads in 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-111 

habitat used by white-tailed deer during summer-early autumn in Northwest Montana did not 

negatively affect deer distribution and use except immediately adjacent to roads. 

Movement Corridors: Most existing openings have adequate adjacent cover available. Movement 

corridors along drainage bottoms and ridgetops are especially important for many wildlife species. 

The Trego Analysis Area contains MA’s 11 and 15. Only MA 11 discusses “maintaining movement 

corridors for wildlife” (USDA Forest Service, 1987; III-44). The majority of the riparian and ridgetop 

corridors are intact. 

Key habitat components: Bogs and wet meadows that may provide key habitats for white-tailed 

deer, have been identified in the analysis area. Please refer to Map 3-5 for a display of riparian areas 

and wetlands. 

Environmental Consequences 

The following table displays changes in major habitat components that would occur with 

implementation of the alternatives. 

Table 3-33. Changes in Big Game Habitat Components following Implementation of the Alternatives 

Habitat Component Alternative A (No Action / 

Existing Condition) Alt. B Alt. C Alt. D 

Cover/forage % within Analysis 

Area (Summer Range) 80/19 70/30 73/27 68/32 

Cover/forage % in MA 11 86/14 66/34 78/22 66/34 

Thermal Cover % on winter range 

(Fortine Subherd) 31 18 22 18 

Generally, created opening size not 

> 20 acres in MA 11 NA No Yes No 

Movement Corridors Affected–

MA11 No Yes No Yes 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Cover/forage: Alternative A would not decrease hiding cover levels because no harvest activities 

would occur. Existing forage would eventually develop into hiding cover, and continued tree growth 

would move some stands toward providing thermal cover. The level of forage would decline over time 

unless harvest or other events, such as a wildfire or windstorm, created additional forage. Forage 

levels would not increase, and thermal cover would not be reduced. The potential for large-scale fires 

exists. The resulting juxtaposition of cover to forage following large fires would not be as favorable 

because forage could be long distances from cover due to larger opening sizes. Overall, white-tailed 

deer habitat would be maintained to support the existing populations, however, individuals animals 

may be more vulnerable in areas where large openings develop following wildfire. 

Opening Sizes: Alternative A would not increase the number of openings over 20 acres because no 

harvest activities would occur. As a consequence, no new forage would be created. A regular influx of 

new forage would be best for big game and other species requiring or preferring early successional 

stages. Over the next 10 years, vegetative succession would reduce the number of existing openings, 

including those over 20 acres, as vegetative growth changes the characteristics of the site toward 

hiding cover. Wildfires generally create openings much larger than 20 acres, as evident from the fires 

of 1994 and 2000. The risk of wildfire escaping initial suppression efforts would be higher with 

Alternative A than for Alternatives B, C and D, due to the persistence of fuels and lack of contiguous 

fuel breaks. Wildfire suppression would continue to occur in accordance with Forest Plan direction. 

During this planning cycle, deer habitat would be maintained to support the existing whitetail deer 

population. 
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3-112 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Open Road Density: Alternative A would not implement a number of winter road closures that would 

lower the ORD. Less human activity on the winter range would result in a higher level of habitat 

security for big game in the winter. Alternative A is the only alternative that does not implement these 

closures and would thus provide a lower level of habitat security for big game in the winter post 

harvest. Although, because there would be no implementation of harvest or thinning activities with 

Alternative A, it there would be no disturbance from harvest, or post harvest activities. 

Movement Corridors: The ability of big game to move through the landscape would not change in the 

short-term because no removal of forested cover would result from Alternative A. In the long-term, a 

lack of fuel reduction activity may result in a higher risk of stand-replacing wildfire and subsequent 

loss of movement areas. This would not affect the overall population but rather some individuals 

would be affected by potential changes in local movement patterns. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect 

Cover/forage: All action alternatives decrease the general cover values within the summer range 

area (See Table 3-33 above) with Alternative C reducing these values the least. All alternatives 

meet cover/forage values for MA 15. 

Within MA 11, Alternative C best meets Forest Plan standards recommending a 70/30 cover/forage 

ratio (See Table 3-33 above). The MA 11 cover/forage ratios in Alternatives B and D result in cover 

ratios of 66% which are lower than the Forest Plan recommendations of 70% (See Table 3-33 

above). Alternatives B and D include activities to treat fuels near private land within the Wildland 

Urban Interface (WUI). The majority of the WUI also functions as white-tailed deer winter range. Fuel 

treatment activities in Alternatives B and D result in reduced cover levels in MA 11. It is expected 

that existing openings would continue to grow trees and provide hiding cover within the next 20-25 

years (Reichert, 2004). 

Within the Fortine Subherd winter range area, all alternatives decrease the thermal cover 

percentages, with Alternatives B and D decreasing them more than Alternative C. Alternatives B 

and D were designed to treat fuels adjacent to private land within the WUI. The fuels in the Trego 

Analysis Area consist mainly of small Douglas-fir ingrowth (ladder fuels) that could carry fire higher 

into the branches of larger trees. The Intermediate Harvest prescription and the Fuels Treatment with 

Manipulation prescription were placed near private land, to target and reduce these ladder fuels. 

These treatment areas also lie within winter range within the Fortine Subherd boundary. A recent 

food habitat study which included the Murphy Subherd area has shown that Douglas-fir needles 

(provided by the smaller Douglas-fir trees whose limb and needles are close to the ground i.e. ladder 

fuels) are one of the two primary forage items for white-tailed deer in the winter (pers.comm. w/ Allen 

Wood, 2005). Because of the decrease in the availability of suitable winter habitat, it is suspected 

that during severe winters with increased snow levels, the analysis area would support fewer deer. 

During these winters, it is expected that the Fortine Subherd may not support the same number of 

deer that it currently supports. It is expected that deer may be either be displaced to an adjacent 

subherd area that provides better thermal cover conditions or individual mortality may occur. 

Opening Sizes: Openings within MA 11 winter range are affected by all prescriptions that are part of 

this project except for Ecosystsem Burning and Uneven-aged Management.Only two prescriptions 

were used in this project within the winter range. The Intermediate Harvest prescription and the 

Fuels Treatment with Manipulation do not result in conditions that meet the hiding cover definition of 

hiding 90% of an animal at 200 feet and therefore result in an opening. Alternatives B and D

increase the number of openings over 20 acres from the existing condition and create large openings 

because of proposed units placed adjacent to existing openings. Alternative C meets Forest Plan 

opening size requirements and does not change existing opening sizes. Edge habitat favored by big 

game would be less available under Alternatives B and D than conditions where there were more 

numerous and smaller openings, such as in Alternative C. The larger openings would result in some 

foraging habitat that is less secure due to its distance-to-cover and therefore may not be fully utilized 

by big game. Utilization could be reduced until vegetation provides cover in the future. This loss in 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-113 

forage availability would be a short-term negative impact to individual animals as it is expected that 

these openings would continue to grow trees and would provide hiding cover within the next 20-25 

years (Reichert, 2004). Although the Intermediate Harvest and Fuels Treatment with Manipulation 

prescriptions result in a more open stand than the existing condition, they still provide a higher level 

of security for feeding and movement than a Regeneration Harvest prescription, and are probably 

used more fully than the regeneration harvest unit of a similar size. However, because of the number 

of large openings that do not provide full hiding cover in Alternatives B and D in MA 11, a ProjectSpecific Forest Plan Amendment to MA 11 Timber Standard #8 would be required until hiding cover 

is re-established (generally starting approximately 20 years following regeneration of a new stand) 

for Alternatives B and D.

Open Road Density: Alternatives B, C, and D would all reduce road densities in MA 11 from 2.71 

to 1.54 miles per square mile after harvest. Most of the remaining open roads access private 

residences, provide power line access or access Bear Paw Lake which is used for ice fishing in the 

winter. These road closures would reduce the disturbance to big game animals using the winter 

range. All alternatives also restrict the use of snowmobiles on the winter range. All action alternatives 

would also decrease the road densities in MA 15 from 2.64 mi./square mile to 2.23 mi./square mile

through road decommissioning, yearlong road restrictions, seasonal road restrictions and roads 

placed into intermittent storage. Portions of the Trego Analysis Area are within the Walk-In Hunting 

Area. All alternatives would include measures to close off areas of illegal motorized use in this area. 

This would also benefit wildlife security. All alternatives include three units that would be logged 

during the winter within the winter range. All of these units lie along existing open roads. The effects 

to deer in the winter would be short-term and and site-specific. All the ORDs meet or exceed Forest 

Plan standards for open road densities. This has the potential to make individual animals less 

vulnerable during hunting season. 

Movement Corridors: Movement corridors within MA 11 winter range are affected by all prescriptions 

that are part of this project except for underburns and uneven-aged management. Only two of these 

prescriptions were placed within the winter range. The Intermediate Harvest prescription and the 

Fuels Treatment with Manipulation do not result in conditions that meet the hiding cover definition of 

hiding 90% of an animal at 200 feet. Alternatives B and D have Intermediate and Fuels Treatment 

with Manipulation prescriptions located in a linear fashion adjacent to private land in the northern 

portion of the analysis area within MA 11 (See Maps 2-2 and 2-4). Alternative C was designed to 

maintain the movement corridors in MA 11 by leaving unharvested areas for movement, resulting in 

fewer acres of Intermediate and Fuels Treatment with Manipulation prescriptions. 

Although the Intermediate Harvest and Fuels Treatment with Manipulation Harvest prescriptions 

result in a more open stand than the existing condition, they still provide a higher level of security for 

movement than a regeneration harvest prescription, and are still used for movement by animals, but 

do not provide hiding cover throughout the stand. Therefore, a Project-Specific Forest Plan 

Amendment to MA 11 Timber Standard #6 would be required until adjacent openings provide 

suitable hiding cover for Alternatives B and D.

Outside of the winter range area in MA 15, the overall ability of big game to move through the 

landscape would be marginally affected by the action alternatives. There are some large openings 

not providing hiding cover that would increase in size with adjacent proposed regeneration harvest in 

all alternatives. Alternative D does this in more areas than the other action alternatives. It is 

expected that these areas would continue to grow trees and would provide hiding cover within the 

next 10-20 years. Alternative C would maintain the existing movement areas the best of any action 

alternative. Overall, ridgeline and riparian corridors remain largely intact and although individual 

animals may have to adjust their localized movement patterns, no movement barriers would result. 

Key habitat components: No wet meadows, or bogs would be affected by any of the alternatives. 
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3-114 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS FOR ALL ALTERNATIVES 

Alternative A (No Action) would not contribute to any cumulative effects on white-tailed deer or their 

habitat. The cumulative effects discussed below relate to the effects of the action alternatives in 

addition to other past, current and reasonably foreseeable actions. 

Past timber harvest and road construction projects, and natural events have created much of the 

existing habitat conditions found within the analysis area. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the sensitive wildlife species project file, considers and 

describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities 

listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on addressed 

species or their habitat are not included in this section. Those activities that cumulatively affect the 

species or habitat will be discussed below. These include vegetation management, private land 

development, and range management. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities have 

created the existing habitat conditions (vegetation and roads) for white-tailed deer within Trego 

Analysis Area. One current timber sale project (Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate 

harvest to thin overstocked stands. Fuel reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling 

with associated pile burning. Two current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and 

Jim Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark 

beetle infestation. These two sales treat 320 acres in which hiding cover will be retained. Post 

harvest activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect effects from these proposed 

activities are discussed in associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to snag dependent 

species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary roads would be closed 

to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Salvage sales and associated activities can alter vegetation, reduce habitat security, and create 

localized disturbances. It is expected that ongoing and reasonably foreseeable salvage harvest and 

associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute localized and 

minor effects to habitat security, availability of hiding cover, fragmentation or connectivity on the 

landscape, or other habitat parameters required by the white-tailed deer. 

Currrent and reasonably foreseeable vegetation management activities within the Trego Analysis 

Area would cumulatively contribute minor localized effects to white-tailed deer and their habitat. 

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Development of private 

land, including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and 

installation of improvements, can create a variety of changes to the landscape. Depending on the 

magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of private land on the landscape, 

these activities can have varied effects, including habitat loss, increased fragmentation, decreased 

habitat security, and localized disturbance on deer 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres for 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. Associated with this could be approximately 6 miles of road construction. 

Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these activities could take 

place in a fairly dispersed manner. Given the relatively small amount of acres treated, these activities 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-115 

would contribute minor effects to habitat security, availability of hiding cover, fragmentation or 

connectivity on the landscape, or other habitat parameters required by white-tailed deer over the 

next 10 years. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Because of the existing roads, the amount of new road construction 

associated with the possible harvest is expected to be minor. Both state and private landowners 

generally restrict public use on their roads. Potential effects to white-tailed deer and their habitat from 

ongoing timber harvest and road construction activities on private land would be minor. 

Range Management: Cattle grazing on winter range has the potential to create competition for 

winter forage habitat for white-tailed deer (Mackie et al., 1998). Adequate winter forage would be 

assured by forage utilization monitoring by the range administrator. Current utilization standards 

within the forested habitat type limits combined (livestock/wildlife) grazing to 50% utilization in order 

to maintain plant vigor and growth. Potential affects to white-tailed deer and its habitat from cattle 

grazing would be minor. 

There are no other reasonably foreseeable activities planned (See Table 1-4) that would change the 

magnitude or scope of effects described in the big game analysis. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

All alternatives meet Forest Plan Mangagement Area direction for the general cover forage ratios in 

MA 11 and 15. All alternatives reduce the existing thermal cover levels. The existing condition of 

thermal cover does not meet the recommendation in Summerfield (1991) regarding thermal cover 

levels in winter range habitat. Adjacent subherd areas may provide this habitat in those infrequent 

severe winters. Alternatives B and D create openings larger than 20 acres and do not provide 

movement corridors in treatment areas within MA 11 and thus require a project specific Forest Plan 

Amendment until hiding cover is reestablished (generally starting approximately 20 years following 

regeneration of the stand). All alternatives would maintain ORDs identified in the Forest Plan for MA 

11. 

White-tailed deer and other ungulate populations are managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks. 

Proposed actions would not prevent the State from continuing to manage these species as 

harvestable populations. 

Statement of Findings 

Based on the analysis of white-tailed deer, the emphasis species for management indicators 

of general forest habitat, effects to summer range (MA 15) habitat would result in 

maintenance of cover/forage ratios and decreased open road densities. Movement corridors 

would be maintained, however larger opening sizes may result in some changes in localized 

movement patterns of individual animals. 

Effects of the alternatives on winter range habitat (MA 11) would result in a decreased open 

road density and retaining cover/forage values at acceptable levels. Thermal cover values 

would decrease further, and may result in displacement or mortality of individuals during 

severe winters. Harvest within the winter range would result in some larger than 

recommended openings and loss in some movement corridors in Alternatives B and D, 

however the prescriptions used for these areas would maintain a higher density of trees and 

would still provide some use for deer movement. Alternative C retains the movement 

corridors and keeps opening sizes within Forest Plan standards. Timing of activities in winter 

range for all but three units would avoid the winter use period (December 1 – April 30). 
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3-116 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Overall, no long term effects to the habitat of white-tailed deer and the general forest species 

they represent are expected. 

2. Pileated Woodpecker 

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Pileated woodpecker (PWP) population ecology, biology, habitat description and relationships 

identified by research for the northern Rocky Mountains are described in McClelland & McClelland 

(1999), McClelland (1979, 1977), McClelland et.al. (1979), and Warren (1990). This information is 

incorporated by reference. 

Research conducted in the Pacific and Inland Northwest is described in Bull & Jackson (1995), Bull 

and Holthausen (1993), Bull et. al. (1992), Bull (1987, 1980, 1975), Bull & Meslow (1977), Mellen et. 

al. (1992), Mellen (1987), Thomas (1979), Mannan (1977), and Jackman (1974). 

Pileated woodpecker occurrence data comes from recent District wildlife observation records, the 

Region One Landbird Monitoring Program (Avian Science Center, Univ. of Montana), and Forest 

historical data (NRIS FAUNA). The pileated woodpecker is the indicator species for old growth and 

snag habitat on the Kootenai National Forest. Habitat for this species was modeled using all 

designated and undesignated old growth habitat and old growth replacement habitat, which has 

currently been mapped for the Kootenai National Forest. 

Description of Measurement Indicators 

The potential population index (PPI) for PWPs on the Kootenai National Forest has been calculated 

by Johnson (2003a). The procedure is based on the assumption that all currently mapped effective 

and replacement old growth habitat (both designated and undesignated) is providing suitable habitat 

to support nesting territories. This assumption also includes the premise that all suitable habitat is 

spatially distributed across the landscape in a pattern that can be incorporated into individual nesting 

territories. The procedure was based on territory sizes of pileated woodpeckers as described in 

research by McClelland (1977) for Northwest Montana, and Thomas (1979) and Bull and Holthausen 

(1993) for Northeast Oregon. For the PPI analysis on the Kootenai National Forest (Johnson 2003a), 

replacement old growth habitat was defined as habitat that had some old growth characteristics, but 

did not meet the Kootenai Forest Plan definition of old growth, or the definition found in Green and 

others 1992, corrected 2/2005). 

Effective old growth habitat was modeled as supporting one nesting pair per 600 acres, with 

replacement old growth habitat supporting one nesting pair per 1000 acres. The difference in territory 

size is based on research that suggests that higher quality habitat can support a breeding pair with 

fewer acres (McClelland 1977; Bull and Holthausen 1993). Also, allowing for larger territory sizes 

when habitat becomes fragmented appears reasonable, as territory sizes up to 2,600 acres have 

been reported for western Oregon (Mellen et. al. 1992). Of course, there are numerous and complex 

interrelated factors that influence the actual size of the home range territory (McClelland 1977). 

Project impacts are evaluated based on impacts to important attributes of pileated woodpecker 

habitat, primarily impacts to designated and undesignated old growth habitat. Specific features of old 

growth stands evaluated for project impacts include preferred nest tree species, preferred nest tree 

size, down logs (both size and quantity), basal area (BA), and canopy closure (CC). 

The overall assessment of habitat quality also accounts for potential negative factors discussed in 

the old growth habitat analysis that relate to size and connectivity, and include fragmentation, edge 

effect, and lack of interior habitat. Risk of firewood cutting is also evaluated. Other stands (not 

designated as old growth) may have one or more important attributes of old growth forests, or 

perhaps provide for connectivity and interior habitat. These stands were also reviewed as part of this 

analysis. 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-117 

Potential home range territories of PWPs were delineated in order to model a viable home range that 

spatially met the needs of a nesting pair. Territories were delineated after reviewing the quality, stand 

size, and spatial arrangement of all available old growth habitat. 

The analysis boundary for project and cumulative impacts to individuals and their habitat is the Trego 

Analysis Area. The boundary for determining trend or viability is the Kootenai National Forest. 

Affected Environment 

No population data is available for pileated woodpeckers within the Kootenai National Forest. 

Breeding bird point count surveys have been conducted on the Kootenai Forest since 1994. In this 

program, transects consisting of multiple bird monitoring points are set up within a wide range of 

habitats distributed geographically across the Kootenai National Forest. This survey technique is not 

specifically designed to census woodpecker species, although all migratory and resident bird species 

detected by specialists trained in bird identification are recorded at each point on each transect. The 

rate of detection can vary greatly from year to year, especially for a wide-ranging species like the 

pileated woodpecker, that may or may not be anywhere near a given point on a given day. During 

the 1994-2004 periods, the pileated woodpecker was tallied 204 times at the 2,638 individual points 

surveyed (USFS, 2003a). 

The modeled minimum PPI for the pileated woodpecker on the Kootenai National Forest is 425 

nesting or breeding pairs (Johnson 2003). This is within the calculated historic range of variation for 

the minimum potential population index of 335 to 554 breeding pairs (Johnson, 1999b). 

A detailed summary of old growth habitat for the Trego Analysis Area is displayed in the Old Growth 

section of this document. This summary indicates that approximately 3185 acres of effective old 

growth habitat (both designated and undesignated), and about 102 acres of replacement habitat 

(both designated and undesignated) exist within the Trego Analysis Area. These 3185 acres of 

effective old growth habitat is spacially distributed throughout the analysis area to provide for 5.3 

pileated woodpecker nesting territories (PPI). This figure assumes a core nesting area of at least 50-

100 acres (McClelland 1977; Bull et.al. 1980; Warren 1990), and no overlap in core nesting 

territories. 

Pileated woodpecker use within the analysis area has been documented through old growth surveys. 

Environmental Consequences 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Under Alternative A (No Action), natural successional processes will continue to occur throughout 

existing old growth stands, and stands containing old growth attributes used by pileated 

woodpeckers. Habitat will be provided for PWP nesting pairs that find suitable feeding and breeding 

conditions provided by the structural features and overall environment within these stands. There 

would be no change in PPI (See Table 3-34 below). 

None of the potential five pileated woodpecker nesting territories will be impacted by management 

activities. In relation to stand size and connectivity, conditions currently appear adequate to meet the 

behavioral and biological needs of the pileated woodpecker in all five of the potential nesting 

territories. 

Replacement old growth habitat currently provides less suitable stand conditions for territory 

occupation. Over the next several decades, in the absence of catastrophic fires or windstorms, these 

stands will develop better habitat features for pileated woodpeckers such as larger trees, larger 

snags, and more down logs. Also, higher levels of decadence will develop producing better substrate 

for food resources such as carpenter ants and their larvae, one of the primary prey items for pileated 

woodpeckers in the Northern Rockies (McClelland & McClelland 1999, 1977) and in the Pacific and 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-118 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Inland Northwest (Bull et. al. 1992a; Bull 1987, 1975; and Bull et. al. 1980). 

Under Alternative A, no active management is expected within effective or replacement old growth 

habitat, with the exception of fire suppression activities. Continued disruption of the historic pattern of 

frequent fires in the drier ponderosa pine/Douglas-fir cover type will continue to result in ecological 

changes, such as the encroachment of Douglas-fir saplings in the understory. Eventually, these sites 

will develop a higher percentage of Douglas-fir trees, snags, and down logs more suitable as 

foraging habitat for pileated woodpeckers. 

Over the next several decades, this successional trend may result in a reduction in quality PWP nest 

trees (ponderosa pine), since Douglas-fir was not found to be important for pileated woodpecker nest 

cavity excavation in the northern Rocky Mountains (McClelland & McClelland 1999, 1977; 

Weydemeyer & Weydemeyer 1928), in Northeast Oregon (Bull 1987, 1975; Thomas 1979), or in 

British Columbia (Harestad & Keisker 1989). 

Under this alternative, the impact of the existing road system on snags, an important attribute of the 

pileated woodpecker territory, will remain as described in the existing condition under the analysis for 

snags and old growth habitat. The effects of edge on pileated woodpecker habitat from adjacent 

regeneration units will also remain as described under the old growth analysis. 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

Impacts to old growth habitat are disclosed in the Old Growth Section. These effects translate to 

potential impacts to the pileated woodpecker as loss of nesting and foraging habitat or reduced 

habitat quality. 

None of the action alternatives propose to harvest or burn within designated MA 13 old growth 

habitat. Consequently, all action alternatives would maintain the existing number of blocks and block 

size for the designated old growth. All blocks remain larger than 50 acres in size. 

No new roads or temporary roads would be constructed through designated or undesignated old 

growth stands in any action alternative. All action alternatives would decommission 1.12 miles of 

road segments within or adjacent to old growth and restrict yearlong .9 miles of road segment 

within or adjacent to old growth. These proposed road restrictions would eliminate firewood 

gathering on 2.02 miles of road within and adjacent to old growth habitat. Consequently, the 

availability of snag habitat would be maintained and improved over the long term in these areas. 

Along roads that are open to motorized vehicles, old growth habitat would be signed/posted to 

reduce the loss of snags and large down wood through firewood gathering. 

A number of Design Criteria and/or monitoring items would be implemented to maintain and improve 

snag habitat. Identified tasks include: the retention of snags and dead merchantable trees; retention 

of live cull and dead-top trees; retention of fire killed trees; retention of reserve trees; inoculating live 

trees with heart-rot pathogens to create live snags over the long term; provide for large woody 

material; and monitoring snag levels. 

Proposed burning is expected to increase the availability of feeding sites as a result of fire related 

tree mortality. Prescribed burning may reduce the risk of future stand replacement fires. Acres of 

burning are discussed under effects by alternative. 

During logging operations, there may be short-term localized disturbance to pileated woodpeckers 

inhabiting the Trego Analysis Area. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE

Connectivity of forested stands would be reduced in all action alternatives. The removal of forested 

habitat with high canopy closure within a potential nesting territory would reduce interior habitat and 
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Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-119 

potential feeding sites. Alternative B creates openings (regeneration harvest prescriptions) and 

eliminates dense forested canopy on 390 acres (12 units); Alternative C results in a loss of 299 

acres of forested habitat (12 units); Alternative D results in a loss of 675 acres of forested habitat 

(18 units). 

This reduction would mostly occur in stands with smaller diameter trees not currently mapped as old 

growth or replacement habitat. The only exceptions occur under Alternatives B and D. These 

alternatives both propose an intermediate harvest in 36 acres of an undesignated old growth stand. 

The purpose of the harvest is to salvage some of the trees in a portion of the stand that was infected 

with the Douglas-fir beetle. The proposed harvest would remove some of the trees that have been 

affected by the Douglas-fir beetle in the stand, but overall the stand would still retain the old growth 

characteristics, including the habitat requirements for the pileated woodpecker. Alternative C does 

not propose any treatments in undesignated effective old growth. All action alternatives would still 

maintain connectivity between pileated nesting and feeding habitat and between potential territories. 

Dispersal distance of young pileated woodpeckers is two miles. All effective old growth patches 

(potential nesting habitat) still remain within two miles of each other. 

Alternatives B and D propose regeneration harvest units that lie adjacent to old growth blocks. This 

results in an additional edge influence on the existing blocks of old growth of 28 acres in Alternative 

B and 35 acres in Alternative D (See Old Growth Section).The interior habitat remaining would still 

meet the 10% old growth required for the Trego Analysis Area. No regeneration harvest units are 

proposed adjacent to old growth and replacement old growth blocks in Alternative C. Therefore no 

edge influence is created and the acres of interior habitat remain the same as the existing condition 

Alternatives B and D propose underburning within 224 acres of undesignated old growth. The 

purpose of the underburning is to reduce fuel loading and ladder fuels that have grown in due to fire 

suppression. The outcome would be the maintenance of all old growth structure and function in the 

treated areas. Alternative C does not have any proposed underburning within old growth. There 

would be patches within the stands, that, without underburning, would grow thicker with small trees 

growing in. Over a longer time period, this could disrupt the dry-site old growth structure and 

function, but in the next 10 years, these stands would still provide the habitat required for dry-site old 

growth species. 

Because old growth characteristics would be retained and there are no expected impacts to effective 

old growth acres, the Population Potential Index (PPI) is not expected to change for either the Trego 

Analysis Area or Forest-wide as seen in Table 3-34 below. 

Table 3-34. Potential Population Index (modeled) by Alternative 

Analysis Area Existing 

PPI 

Alt. A 

No Action 

Alt. 

B 

Alt. 

C 

Alt. 

D 

Trego Analysis Area 5 5 5 5 5 

Forest-wide 425 425 425 425 425 

 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ALTERNATIVES 

Past road construction projects, tree harvest, fire suppression, and natural events have created the 

existing habitat conditions for old growth dependent species, including the pileated woodpecker. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Wildlife Project File, considers and describes 

proposed activities in addition to the past, current and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in 

Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on pileated woodpecker 

or its habitat are not included in this section. Those activities that cumulatively affect pileated 

woodpecker or its habitat include firewood gathering, private land development, and vegetation 

management and will be discussed below. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-120 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Firewood gathering: Firewood gathering on National Forest land is a permitted use that occurs 

along all open roads except within MA 13 Old Growth areas. Many of the designated old growth 

stands located along open roads have been signed to prohibit firewood gathering. As some of the 

old growth associated species also use other adjacent habitat, loss of snags in these areas can 

affect habitat suitability. Outside of designated old growth habitat, the availability of snags and down 

woody material will be reduced along the road influence zone. The Available Snag Habitat (ASH) 

model accounts for this decrease in snags along open roads and reflects this in the ASH levels 

reported. Firewood gathering can also cause minor short-term localized displacement to species 

using the area. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable firewood gathering activities within the Trego 

Analysis Area would cumulatively result in localized and minor effects on snag habitat and 

associated wildlife species. 

Firewood gathering on State and private land is generally considered a minor activity. It was 

assumed that the same level of firewood gathering occurs on State and private land; so potential 

effects to snags would be minor. The level of firewood gathering is expected to remain fairly stable 

over the next 10 years. 

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Development of private 

land, including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and 

installation of improvements, as well as vegetation management, can create a variety of changes to 

the landscape. Depending on the magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of 

private land on the landscape, these activities can have varied effects, including habitat loss, 

increased fragmentation, and localized disturbance on old growth associated species. Because of 

past activities it is assumed that nesting habitat is limited on private land. Because of the territory 

requirements of some species, private land can provide additional feeding habitat opportunities. 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres for 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. Associated with this could be approximately 6 miles of road construction. 

Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these activities could take 

place in a spatially dispersed manner across the analysis area. Development of private lands within 

the analysis area could potentially reduce the amount of foraging habitat for some old growth 

associated species. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Because of the existing roads, the amount of new road construction 

associated with the possible harvest is expected to be minor. Both state and private landowners 

generally restrict public use on their roads. Given the relatively small percentage of of area treated 

over the next 10 years, these activities would contribute minor effects to foraging habitat to old 

growth, or snag-dependent species. 

All activities on private may result in the loss of foraging opportunities for some old growth 

associated species. However, given the amount of old growth on Forest Service lands, as well as 

other Forest Service stands that provide foraging habitat, this should not be factor for old growth 

dependant species within the analysis area. The action alternatives, in combination with other 

proposed and reasonably foreseeable Forest Service, State and private activities would maintain the 

designated management level of old growth and maintain the potential nesting territories for the 

pileated woodpecker over the next ten years. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities, have 

modified the old growth and snag habitat within Trego Analysis Area. One current timber sale project 

(Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate harvest to thin overstocked stands. Fuel 

reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling with associated pile burning. Two 

current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) 

are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Post harvest 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-121 

activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect effects from ongoing activities were 

discussed in their associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to snag dependent 

species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary roads would be closed 

to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Currrent and reasonably foreseeable vegetation management activities within the Trego Analysis 

Area would cumulatively contribute minor localized effects to old growth and snag -dependent 

species. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

Forest Plan: 

• All alternatives are consistent with Forest Plan direction for old growth (see old growth 

section) 

• All alternatives are consistent with Forest Plan direction for snags and down wood (see snag 

and down wood section) 

Statement of Findings 

Based on the analysis for pileated woodpecker, old growth, and snags and down wood, and the KNF 

Conservation Plan (Johnson 2004), habitat for old growth forest species and cavity habitat users 

should be provided in sufficient quality and quantity to meet the needs for viable populations. Based 

on a recent region-wide conservation assessment of the pileated woodpecker (Samson, 2005), 

habitat estimates for the pileated woodpecker show that nest site habitat is abundant and welldistributed across the Northern Region by National Forest. This assessment also shows that shortterm viability of the pileated woodpecker in the Northern Region (which includes the Kootenai 

National Forest) is not an issue. 

C. Sensitive Species 

Regulatory Framework 

The sensitive species analysis in this document meets the requirements for a biological evaluation 

as outlined in FSM 2672.42. 

Sensitive species are administratively designated by the Regional Forester (FSM 2670.5) and 

managed under the authority of the National Forest Management Act. FSM 2670.22 requires the 

maintenance of viable populations of native and desired non-native species and to avoid actions that 

may cause a species to become threatened or endangered. 

The National Forest Management Act (NFMA) (36 CFR 219.19) directs the Forest Service to 

manage habitat to maintain viable populations of existing native and desired non-native vertebrate 

species. A viable population is defined as one that has the estimated numbers and distribution of 

reproductive individuals to insure its continued existence is well distributed in the planning area, the 

Kootenai National Forest. 

The Kootenai National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan (USDA Forest Service, 1987a) 

establishes forest-wide goals, objectives, standards, guidelines, and monitoring requirements. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-122 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Direction for sensitive species includes determining the status of sensitive species and providing for 

their environmental needs as necessary to prevent them from becoming endangered (USDA Forest 

Service, 1987a, page II-1). The Forest Plan also requires the maintenance of diverse age classes of 

vegetation for viable populations of all existing native, vertebrate wildlife species (USDA Forest 

Service, 1987a, page II-1). 

 

Table 3-35. Sensitive Wildlife Species on the Kootenai National Forest (Kimbell 2004, 2005) 

SENSITIVE SPECIES STATUS IN 

ANALYSIS AREA* 

COMMENTS**(where described in this 

document) 

Black Backed 

Woodpecker 

(Picoides arcticus) 

S See Sensitive Species Section below. 

Coeur d’Alene 

Salamander 

(Plethodon vandykei 

idahoensis) 

NS 

Trego Analysis Area does not support suitable 

habitat. Refer to the No Effects Table in 

Appendix A. 

Common loon 

(Gavia immer) NS 

Trego Analysis Area does not support suitable 

habitat. Refer to the No Effects Table in 

Appendix A. 

Fisher 

(Martes pinnanti) S See Sensitive Species Section below. 

Flammulated Owl 

(Otus flammeolus) S See Sensitive Species Section below. 

Harlequin Duck 

(Histrionicus histrionicus) NS 

Trego Analysis Area does not support suitable 

habitat. Refer to the No Effects Table in 

Appendix A. 

Northern Bog Lemming 

(Synaptomys borealis) NS 

Trego Analysis Area does not support suitable 

habitat. Refer to the No Effects Table in 

Appendix A. 

Northern Goshawk 

(Accipiter gentiles) S See Sensitive Species Section below 

Northern Leopard Frog 

(Rana pipiens) NS 

Trego Analysis Area does not support suitable 

habitat. Refer to the No Effects Table in 

Appendix A. 

Peregrine Falcon 

(Falco peregrinus) NS 

Trego Analysis Area does not support suitable 

habitat. Refer to the No Effects Table in 

Appendix A. 

Townsend’s Big-eared 

Bat 

(Corynorhinus 

townsendii) 

K See Sensitive Species Section below 

Western Toad 

(Bufo boreas) K See Sensitive Species Section below. 

Wolverine 

(Gulo gulo) S See Sensitive Species Section below. 

*Status Key: 

 K = This species is known to occur within the analysis area. 

 S = Species is suspected to occur within or occasionally use the anlysis area. 

 NS = Species is not suspected to occur within the analysis area, and is dropped from further evaluation. 

1. Black-backed woodpecker (Picoides arcticus)

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Black-backed woodpecker population ecology, biology, habitat description and relationships 

identified by research are described in Powell (2000), Cherry (1997), Hutto (1995), and O’Connor 

and Hillis (2001). That information is incorporated by reference. Black-backed occurrence data 

comes from recent District wildlife observation records and Forest historical data (NRIS FAUNA). 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-123 

Black-backed woodpecker habitat was modeled using District TSMRS vegetation data and running 

the Kootenai TSMRS black-backed woodpecker habitat model (Heinz, 1996). The potential 

population index (PPI) (number of potential breeding pairs) was calculated for a breeding pair by 

dividing general forest habitat acres by 800 acres (approximate largest home range) and by dividing 

high quality habitat acres by 175 acres (approximate smallest home range; Johnson et.al. 2004: 

Appendix G). The difference in territory size used in the two habitat components is based on the 

assumption that higher quality habitat can support a breeding pair with fewer acres. High quality 

habitat is defined as recent (< 10 years old) mixed-lethal or stand-replacement fire areas where an 

abundance of snags are available. Black-backed woodpeckers have been found to be almost 

restricted to early post-fire forests (Hutto, 1995). Territory sizes are from the summary paper by 

Cherry (1997). The analysis boundary for direct, indirect and cumulative effects to individuals and 

their habitat is the Trego Analysis Area. The boundary for determining trend or viability is the 

Kootenai National Forest. The results of this analysis provide a baseline condition for the next ten 

years when the Trego Analysis Area may be reexamined. 

Affected Environment 

Habitat for black-backed woodpeckers consists of boreal and montane forest where beetle outbreaks 

are occurring as a result of disturbances caused by fire, wind, and disease. In the Trego Analysis 

Area black-backed woodpecker habitat consists mainly of lower quality general forest habitat with 

scattered patches of snags produced by insect and disease. This lower quality habitat supports low 

populations of resident black-backed woodpeckers. The Kootenai TSMRS black-backed woodpecker 

habitat model (Heinz, 1996) identified 8300 acres of general forest habitat within the Trego Analysis 

Area. High quality habitat in the form of recent (in the last 10 years) mixed lethal and stand-replacing 

wildfire or prescribed fire does not occur in the Trego Analysis Area. The available general forest 

habitat would produce a Potential Population Index (PPI) of 10 pairs. 

As a primary cavity-nester, black-backed woodpeckers require dead or live trees with heartwood rot 

and show a preference for Douglas-fir, ponderosa pine, lodgepole pine, and western larch. 

According to Thomas (1979, p. 74), a snag level of 40 percent or more should maintain viable 

populations of birds dependent on cavities for nest sites. The existing snag habitat level for the Trego 

Analysis Area is 60%. 

On a Forest-wide level, modeled black-backed woodpecker habitat is abundant, broadly distributed 

and amounts to 1,317,790 acres of general forest habitat. These general forest habitat acres would 

provide a PPI for approximately 1647 pair of woodpeckers. Incidental black-backed woodpecker 

sightings are sporadically reported across the District. 

Environmental Consequences 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

• All action alternatives maintain snag and old growth forest levels throughout the Trego 

Analysis Area that exceed the minimum levels necessary to support viable populations of 

snag-dependent and old growth associated species (refer to Snag Habitat and Old Growth 

Forest Sections of this document). None of the action alternatives propose to harvest or burn 

within designated MA 13 old growth habitat. There is proposed Ecosystem Burning outside 

of old growth stands in all of the action alternatives. Ecosystem Burning may burn up some 

snags, but would create others and may also create feeding habitat for the woodpecker. 

• All action alternatives would decommission a total of 12.47 miles of road within the analysis 

area. An additional 7.16 miles of road would be restricted year-long for a total of 19.63 miles 

of road. Of these road miles, 2.02 miles of road segments are within or adjacent to MA13 old 

growth habitat which would eliminate firewood gathering within and adjacent to old growth 

habitat as well as in stands supporting snags along these roads. Consequently, the 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-124 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

availability of snag habitat would be maintained and improved over the long term in 

associated stands. 

• A number of Design Criteria and/or monitoring items would be implemented to maintain and 

improve snag habitat. Identified tasks include: the retention of snags and dead merchantable 

trees; retention of live cull and dead-top trees; retention of fire killed trees; retention of 

reserve trees; inoculating live trees with heart-rot pathogens to create live snags over the 

long term; provide for large woody material; and monitoring snag levels. 

• During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to black-backed 

woodpeckers inhabiting the Trego Analysis Area. 

EFFECTS OF ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Proposed activities for Alternatives B, C and D have the potential to remove or reduce general 

forest foraging opportunities, and at the same time, create foraging habitat during post-harvest 

burning activities. Regeneration harvest would remove general opportunities, leaving a minimum 

number of wildlife trees available for foraging. Regeneration harvest almost always includes under 

burning, and with heavier slash, has potential to kill trees left on site. Overall, a larger amount of lowquality habitat would be replaced with a smaller amount of higher-quality habitat. Intermediate 

harvest would leave a number of trees on site for general foraging opportunities. Underburning in 

these stands would create more potential for black-backed woodpecker foraging habitat than 

regeneration harvest. Intermediate harvest with underburning and stands with Ecosystem Burning 

would be most similar to historical conditions created by mixed-severity fires, and could provide high 

quality black-backed habitat for 2-3 years, then declining and rarely providing insect food sources 

beyond 5-7 years (Caton 1996, Murphy and Lehnhausen 1998). 

Table 3-36. Change in Black-backed Woodpecker Habitat and PPI 

(Potential Population Index) by Alternative 

Habitat Change in Acres (% Change) 

Alt. A 

Existing 

Condition 

No Action 

Alt. B Alt. C Alt. D 

Short Term Improvement (2-3 years) in Habitat 

Quality due to Ecosystem Burning and/or thinning 

with underburning (analysis area percentage). 

(0%) 

617 

acres 

(7.4%) 

304 

acres 

(3.6% 

617 

acres 

(7.4%) 

Reduction in General Forest Foraging Habitat due to 

Regeneration Harvest. (0%) 341 

(4.1%) 

253 

(3.0%) 

517 

(6.2%) 

PPI – Pair Territories in Trego Analysis Area 10 10 10 10 

Reduction in General Forest Habitat Forest-wide (0%) (.03%) (.02%) (.04%) 

PPI – Pair Territories Forest-wide 1647 1647 1647 1647 

EFFECTS OF ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

Alternatives B, C and D would create forest openings with regeneration harvest on 3 to 6% of the 

black-backed woodpecker habitat in the Trego Analysis Area, which would reduce general use but 

would also create some good forage trees following underburning. Habitat reductions in high quality 

habitat would not result following implementation of any of these alternatives because there is no 

existing high quality habitat within the analysis area. A minimum of 94% of general forest habitat 

would remain following implementation of all action alternatives. All alternatives would provide 

additional foraging trees on areas with thinning and/or underburning on up to 7.4% of the blackbacked woodpecker habitat in the analysis area. On a Forest-wide level, the reduction in general 

foraging habitat would amount to less than one percent for all action alternatives. Minor effects on 

the distribution of habitat needed for viable populations of black-backed woodpeckers in the Trego 

Analysis Area or the Forest would occur because proposed activities would result in a small net loss 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-125 

of low quality habitat scattered throughout the analysis area and there would be no loss in high 

quality habitat. In addition, the thinning and underburning treatments would provide additional 

foraging trees. There is no change in PPI for the Trego Analysis Area or Forest in any alternative. 

EFFECTS OF ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Alternative A would maintain/allow the natural insect/disease processes to occur. General forest 

conditions for foraging opportunities would remain low quality. The potential for stand-replacing fires 

escaping initial attack would continue to increase as fuel levels increased. If a wildfire were to occur, 

prime black-backed woodpecker habitat would be created, and conditions would benefit this species. 

Local populations would experience an immediate increase as bark beetles increased, lasting five to 

seven years, until beetle populations declined. Past regenerated timber stands will continue to 

mature to provide future snag habitat. Because no direct effects on snag habitat are expected with 

the implementation of this alternative, Alternative A would have no effect on the black-backed 

woodpecker or its habiat. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Past road construction projects, tree harvest, fire suppression, and natural events have created the 

existing habitat conditions for the black-backed woodpecker. Wildfires that created large numbers of 

snags burned almost 100,000 acres on the Kootenai National Forest in 1994 and 2000 (no fires 

occurred within the Trego Analysis Area). Only a minor proportion of those areas (about 10% of the 

53,000 acres that burned in 1994) were harvested. This left large areas where all fire-created snags 

were retained (USDA Forest Service, 2003b). 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the snag habitat and associated species project file, 

considers and describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably 

foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible 

effects on addressed species or their habitat are not included in this section. Those activities that 

cumulatively affect the species or habitat will be discussed below. These are firewood gathering,

private land development, and vegetation mangagement.

Firewood gathering: Firewood gathering on National Forest land is a permitted use that occurs 

along all open roads except within MA 13 Old Growth areas. Many of the designated old growth 

stands located along open roads have been signed to prohibit firewood gathering. As some of the 

old growth associated species also use other adjacent habitat, loss of snags in these areas can 

affect habitat suitability. Outside of designated old growth habitat, the availability of snags and down 

woody material would be reduced along the road influence zone. The Available Snag Habitat (ASH) 

model accounts for this decrease in snags along open roads and reflects this in the ASH levels 

reported. Firewood gathering can also cause minor short-term localized displacement to species 

using the area. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable firewood gathering activities within the Trego 

Analysis Area would cumulatively result in localized and minor effects on snag habitat other habitat 

parameters required by the black-backed woodpecker. 

Firewood gathering on State and private land is generally considered a minor activity. It was 

assumed that the same level of firewood gathering occurs on State and private land; so potential 

effects to snags would be minor. The level of firewood gathering is expected to remain fairly stable 

over the next 10 years. 

All activities on private may result in the loss of foraging opportunities for the black-backed 

woodpecker. However, given the amount of foraging habitat on Forest Service lands, this should not 

be a limiting factor for the black-backed woodpecker within the analysis area. 

The level of firewood gathering is expected to remain fairly stable over the next 10 years. 

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Development of private 

land, including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-126 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

installation of improvements, as well as vegetation management, can create a variety of changes to 

the landscape. Depending on the magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of 

private land on the landscape, these activities can have varied effects, including habitat loss, 

increased fragmentation, and localized disturbance on snag-dependantspecies. Because of past 

activities it is assumed that nesting habitat is limited on private land. Because of the territory 

requirements of some species, private land can provide additional feeding habitat opportunities. 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres for 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. Associated with this could be approximately 6 miles of road construction. 

Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these activities could take 

place in a spatially dispersed manner across the analysis area. Development of private lands within 

the analysis area could potentially reduce the amount of foraging habitat for black-backed 

woodpeckers. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Because of the existing roads, the amount of new road construction 

associated with the possible harvest is expected to be minor. Both state and private landowners 

generally restrict public use on their roads. Given the relatively small percentage of of area treated 

over the next 10 years, these activities would contribute minor effects to foraging habitat for blackbacked woodpeckers. 

All activities on private may result in the loss of foraging opportunities for black-backed woodpeckers. 

However, given the amount of old growth on Forest Service lands, as well as other Forest Service 

stands that provide foraging habitat, this should not be a limiting factor for this species within the 

analysis area. The action alternatives, in combination with other proposed and reasonably 

foreseeable Forest Service, State and private activities would contribute minor effects to blackbacked woodpeckers and their habitat. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities, have 

modified the old growth and snag habitat within Trego Analysis Area. One current timber sale project 

(Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate harvest to thin overstocked stands. Fuel 

reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling with associated pile burning. Two 

current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) 

are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Post harvest 

activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect effects from ongoing activities were 

discussed in their associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to snag dependent 

species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary roads would be closed 

to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Salvage sales and associated activities can alter vegetation, reduce habitat security, and create 

localized disturbances. It is expected that ongoing and reasonably foreseeable salvage harvest and 

associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute localized and 

minor effects to habitat loss, increased fragmentation or connectivity on the landscape, or habitat 

parameters required by the black-backed woodpecker. 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-127 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

Forest Plan: 

• All Alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for sensitive species (USDA Forest Service, 

1987a, Vol. 1, II-1 #6). 

• All alternatives are consistent with Forest Plan direction for old growth below 5500’ (USDA 

Forest Service, 1987a, Vol. 1 II-1 #7; II-7; II-22 & 23; Appendix 17; and Kootenai FSM 

2432.22 Supplement No. 85). 

Statement of Findings 

Alternatives B, C, and D are likely to impact individuals and/or their habitat, but would not contribute 

to a trend toward federal listing or loss of species viability for the black-backed woodpecker. This 

determination is based on: 

1. All alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for the black-backed woodpecker under 

sensitive species classification. All alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for snag and old 

growth habitat (refer to Old Growth and Snag Habitat Sections of this document). 

2. The assessment of habitat parameters for black-backed woodpecker at the Trego 

Analysis Area Level determined that all action alternatives would maintain suitable habitat 

within the analysis area. The only expected effect is that during logging operations, there 

may be short-term disturbance to black-backed woodpeckers inhabiting the Trego Analysis 

Area. 

3. Suitable cavity habitat for the black-backed woodpecker is found forest-wide as 

documented in Johnson, 1999a and USDA Forest Service, 2003b. 

 

4. Habitat is abundant and well-distributed across the Northern Region and by Forest; the 

short-term viability of the black-backed woodpecker in the Northern Region is not an issue 

as documented in Samson, 2005. 

2. FISHER (Martes pinnanti) 

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Fisher population ecology, biology, habitat description and relationships identified by research are 

described in Powell and Zielinski (1994) and Heinemeyer and Jones (1994). That information is 

incorporated by reference. Fisher occurrence data comes from recent District wildlife observation 

records and Forest historical data (NRIS FAUNA) and other agencies (MFWP). Fisher habitat was 

modeled using TSMRS vegetation data and running the Draft Kootenai Fisher Model (USDA Forest 

Service, 1996d). The potential population index (PPI) (habitat acres divided by average home range 

acres) was calculated using 10,000 acres as the average male and 3,700 acres as the average 

female fisher home range (Powell and Zielinski 1994). The index shows both male and female fisher 

because their home ranges overlap extensively (ibid). 

The Trego Analysis Area was located in a secondary conservation area and designated as having 

low quality habitat (See Existing Condition below). Habitat within the Trego Analysis Area was 

analyzed primarily as travel habitat. Following the Draft Kootenai Fisher Model (USDA Forest 

Service, 1996d), fisher travel habitat was identified (See Fisher Project File). In addition to evaluating 

the amount and distribution of travel habitat, potential barriers to fisher movement, and road 

accessibility were evaluated. Project file maps (age classes and roads) were used to evaluate travel 

corridors and potential barriers. Recommendations include minimizing road accessibility so as to 

reduce trapping vulnerability, and minimizing potential barriers to fisher movement such as forest 

openings. 

 

The analysis boundary for direct, indirect and cumulative effects to individuals and their habitat is the 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-128 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Trego Analysis Area. The boundary for determining trend or viability is the Kootenai National Forest. 

The results of this analysis will provide a baseline condition for the next 10 year period when the 

Trego Analysis Area may be reexamined. 

Affected Environment 

Trapping records from MDFWP have not identified any fisher being trapped on the Fortine Ranger 

District, (Pers. Comm. Tim Thier, MDFWP with Lynn Johnson, Feb. 2006). There are no records of 

fisher being observed within the Trego Analysis Area and trapping pressure within this area is very 

low (Tim Thier, MDFWP, personal communication, 2006). Fisher tracks have been reported on the 

District in the Griffith Creek Area and the Ten Lakes Area, approximately 15 miles from the Trego 

Analysis Area. Old trapping records show fisher caught in the Sutton/McGuire Area, approximately 

13 miles east of the analysis area. Fisher presence has been confirmed in five of the eight planning 

units on the Kootenai (Johnson, 1999a). 

Reudiger (1994) shows the Kootenai National Forest as a primary habitat area for fisher. He does 

not identify every acre on the Kootenai as suitable fisher habitat. Following the identification process 

outlined in Reudiger (ibid), the Fortine District (Tobacco Planning Unit), as well as the entire east 

side of the forest, was identified as secondary fisher conservation areas because of private land, low 

elevation, and roads (Johnson, 2004b). Further refinement and evaluation of the Fortine District in 

USDA Forest Service (2004a) identified the Trego Analysis Area as providing low quality habitat 

based on the prevalence of private land the open roads paralleling stream courses (Johnson, 

2004b). Because of the low quality habitat designation and the lack of past and present sightings 

within the analysis area, the Trego Analyis Area is important to fisher mainly as travel habitat. 

Because fisher are capable of long movements, it is important that areas of high or moderate quality 

habitat be connected with suitable travel habitat. 

In running the Draft Kootenai Fisher Model (USDA Forest Service, 1996d) 8,636 acres of potential 

habitat was identified in the Trego Analysis Area. Timber stand data information identified that of 

these acres, approximately 95% of public land within the 800 meter riparian area supports stands 

that were 20 years or older and would support travel habitat. Fifty-one percent of these stands were 

in stands 100 years or older that would support large to very large size class stands. Most of these 

stands are 80 acres or greater in size (as they extend outside of the 800 meter riparian area) and 

most all of these are interconnected by pole-sized or larger stands, thus allowing movement within 

and between the riparian areas. There are no large openings within the buffer that would be a barrier 

to travel. Most openings make up a small portion of the width of the buffer. 

Travel habitat to the northeast, southeast and southern portion of the analysis area is intact. The 

lower elevations on the western and southwestern portion of the analysis area along Fortine Creek 

are primarily private land. It is suspected that there are fewer stands with older age classes within 

these areas, however the majority of this area supports forested cover. Although there are existing 

forest openings in the analysis area which would likely be avoided by the fisher, there are no barriers 

to fisher movement within or between adjacent analysis areas. Over 90% of the public land along the 

perimeter of the analysis area supports forested cover. Consequently, the availability of travel 

corridors between adjacent analysis areas is generally good (Refer to Fisher Structure Map in Fisher 

Project File). 

Snag levels are between 57% and 63% of the potential snag habitat for the two VRU groups that 

make up the Trego Analysis Area (Refer to Snag Habitat Section). Within the mature/overmature 

habitat, snag levels often exceed 2.25 snags per acre (identified as the 100 percent potential in the 

Forest Plan). Large down woody material is more common within overmature stands than in mature 

stands. 

Trapping vulnerability risk to the fisher throughout the analysis area is high based on the existing 

open road density (2.85 mile/mile2 [Heinemeyer and Jones, 1994]). However, considering the low 

level of trapping within the area (pers. Comm. Tim Thier, MDFWP with Lynn Johnson, Feb., 2006), 

and the expected infrequent use of the area by fisher (based on sighting data), the risk to the fisher 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-129 

is diminished. 

Based on the average male and female fisher home range sizes and the modeled habitat acres, the 

potential population index for the Trego Analysis Area is two female and 0 males. Because of the 

lack of optimal habitat and sightings within the area, it is suspected that the area functions only as 

travel habitat. The Trego Analysis Area is not large enough to support modeled habitat for one male 

fisher. There is adjacent moderate quality habitat in the adjacent planning areas to the north, east 

and south of the Trego Analysis Area that would support habitat for at least one male fisher. Using 

the yearlong (modeled) habitat acres from Johnson (1999a), the minimum PPI for the Kootenai 

National Forest would be 29 male and 80 female fishers. 

Environmental Consequences 

Direct and indirect effects on fisher habitat are described below for proposed activities and for other 

resource enhancement projects identified in Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered for all 

past, current and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1 and are described at the end 

of this section. 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

• All action alternatives would continue to provide travel habitat for fisher traveling through the 

analysis area. All action alternatives would maintain the potential population index (PPI) for 

fisher in the analysis area and across the Forest. 

• All action alternatives meet Forest Plan standards for retaining at least 40% available snag 

habitat (at least one snag per acre). The snag and down woody material is important to 

fisher as denning and resting sites. All alternatives maintain the existing old growth. 

• All action alternatives would close roads or road segments that bisect or lie adjacent to 

MA13 old growth habitat. Proposed road closures would eliminate firewood gathering on 

2.02 miles of road within and adjacent to old growth habitat. Consequently, the availability of 

snag habitat would be maintained and improved over the long term in associated stands. 

• A number of Design Criteria listed in Table 2-10 as well as Resource Enhancement Projects 

(Table 2-1) would be implemented to maintain and improve snag habitat. Identified tasks 

include: the retention of snags and dead merchantable trees; retention of live cull and deadtop trees; retention of fire killed trees; retention of reserve trees; signing old growth areas to 

prevent firewood harvest in these areas; inoculating live trees with heart-rot pathogens to 

create snags over the long term; and monitoring snag levels. 

• All action alternatives would maintain existing riparian vegetation and riparian travel corridors 

by following INFISH direction. All action alternatives apply BMPs to all proposed harvest 

activities and establish RHCAs for stream, lake and wetland protection (See Design Criteria, 

Table 2-10). 

• During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to fishers traveling through 

the Trego Analysis Area. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Table 3-37 summarizes the changes in habitat acres and Potential Population Index (PPI) by 

alternative. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-130 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Table 3-37. Habitat and PPI Changes by Alternative 

Fisher Measurement 

Indicators 

Alternative A 

(No Action) 

(Existing 

Condition) 

Alt. B Alt. C Alt. D 

Trego Analysis Area Habitat 

Acres Reduced 

(% change from existing) 

8,636 

(0% change) 

36 

(.4%) 

35 

(.4%) 

132 

(1.5%) 

PPI – Trego Analysis Area 

(Males/Females) 2 females, 0 males Same as 

Alt. A 

Same as Alt. 

A 

Same as alt. 

A 

Forest-wide Habitat Acres 

Remaining 

(% change) 

294,531 acres 

(0% change) 

294,495 acres 

(.01%) 

294,496 

(.01%) 

294399 

(.04%) 

PPI - Forest-wide 

(Males/Females) 29/80 Same as Alt. A 

Same as 

Alt. A 

Same as 

Alt. A 

Each of the action alternatives proposes regeneration harvest activities that would reduce the 

amount of fisher habitat in the Trego Analysis Area. Alternative D proposes more acres of 

regeneration harvest units than the other two alternatives and therefore reduces travel habitat the 

most. Fisher are likely to avoid regeneration harvest units until cover is again provide by the 

regenerating trees and the resprouting of shrubs. The other proposed harvest prescriptions such as 

Intermediate and Uneven-age harvest would reduce the number of trees on the site, but would still 

provide travel habitat for the fisher. While research does not show fisher to be highly sensitive to 

human activity, the presence of people and machines during project implementation may still 

displace fishers using the suitable habitat near the proposed units. The potential displacement could 

last until the machines are turned off or leave the area and the people are gone. Because the Trego 

Analysis Area provides mainly travel habitat (see existing condition above), displacement is not 

expected to be a significant factor for fisher in this area. 

There are no barriers to fisher movement proposed in any alternative. Alternative D proposes the 

greatest number of regeneration harvest areas that are likely to be avoided by the fisher, however 

alternate travel areas are available. Alternative C leaves more movement corridors adjacent to 

private land in the lower elevations which leaves the existing vegetation in place in these areas and 

provides the least change from the existing condition. Forested cover along the perimeter of the 

analysis area is reduced slightly by three regeneration harvest units in each alternative (see 

alternative maps in the project file). Forested cover is still provided on over approximately 90% of the 

perimeter of the public land within the analysis areas in all alternatives, and maintains movement 

within the analysis area and between adjacent analysis areas. 

All action alternatives reduce roads that are open to snowmobiles in the winter by 4.17 miles. 

Alternative C, however closes an additional 5.37 miles to snowmobiles during the winter. These 

closures would help decrease the trapping vulnerability risk for the fisher by reducing the areas 

available to trap. Alternative C decreases the risk the most with the additional miles of closed road. 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

During the next ten years, existing conditions will change some of the seral conditions. Some of the 

regenerated timber stands that currently do not provide fisher habitat will develop into hiding cover 

and provide forage and travel habitat. Road closures/restrictions proposed by the action alternatives 

that would eliminate firewood harvest of snags, reduce the trapping vulnerability and improve habitat 

over time, will not be implemented in this alternative. This alternative would not use prescribed fire as 

a tool to improve the availability and vigor of grasses, forbs, and shrubs (forage for species that 

fisher feed on). The exclusion of fire may increase the risk for future stand replacement fires. 

Because no direct effects are expected with the implementation of this alternative, Alternative A will 

have no effect on the fisher or its habitat. 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-131 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Past timber harvest, road construction projects, and natural events have created much of the existing 

habitat conditions found within the analysis area. The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the 

sensitive wildlife species project file, considers and describes proposed activities in addition to the 

past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that 

cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on addressed species or their habitat are not included in 

this section. Those activities that cumulatively affect the species or habitat will be discussed below. 

They include those activities that occur within the riparian area (800-meter buffer from streams) and 

affect the available snag habitat. These activities include private land development, vegetation 

management, resource enhancement projects, firewood gathering and cattle grazing.

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Development of private 

land, including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and 

installation of improvements, as well as vegetation management, can create a variety of changes to 

the landscape. Depending on the magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of 

private land on the landscape, these activities can have varied effects, including habitat loss, 

increased fragmentation, decreased habitat security, and localized disturbance on fisher. 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres for 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. Associated with this could be approximately 6 miles of road construction. 

Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these activities could take 

place in a spatially dispersed manner across the analysis area. Given the relatively small amount of 

acres treated and the low level of expected use by the fisher, these activities would contribute minor 

effects to habitat security, availability of cover, fragmentation or connectivity on the landscape, or 

other habitat parameters required by the fisher over the next 10 years. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Because of the existing roads, the amount of new road construction 

associated with the possible harvest is expected to be minor. Both state and private landowners 

generally restrict public use on their roads. Given the relatively small percentage of of area treated 

over the next 10 years, these activities would contribute minor effects to habitat parameters required 

by the fisher. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities, have 

modified some habitat within the existing RHCAs found within theTrego Analysis Area. One current 

timber sale project (Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate harvest to thin overstocked 

stands. Fuel reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling with associated pile 

burning. Two current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim Stew Douglas-fir 

Beetle Sales) are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. 

Post harvest activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect effects from ongoing 

activities were discussed in their associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to snag dependent 

species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary roads would be closed 

to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-132 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Salvage sales and associated activities can alter vegetation, reduce habitat security, and create 

localized disturbances. It is expected that ongoing and reasonably foreseeable salvage harvest and 

associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute localized and 

minor effects to habitat security, fragmentation or connectivity on the landscape, or habitat 

parameters required by the fisher 

Resource Enhancement Projects: This project identified a number of watershed Resource 

Enhancement Projects listed in Table 2-1. Additional restoration work is anticipated to occur within 

the analysis over the next 10 years. The findings of this assessment conclude that ongoing and 

reasonably foreseeable watershed restoration activities within the Trego Analysis Area would 

cumulatively contribute localized and minor effects to habitat security, fragmentation or connectivity 

on the landscape, or habitat parameters required by the fisher. Some of these activities may cause a 

short-term disturbance to fisher traveling through the area, but would improve habitat for the fisher 

over the long term. 

Firewood gathering on National Forest land is a permitted use that occurs along all open roads 

except within MA 13 Old Growth areas. The availability of snags and down woody material would be 

reduced along the road influence zone. The ASH model accounts for this decrease in snags along 

open roads and reflects this in the ASH levels reported. Firewood gathering can also cause minor 

short-term localized displacement to species using the area. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable 

firewood gathering activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute localized 

and minor effects to habitat security or habitat parameters required by the fisher. The level of 

firewood gathering is expected to remain fairly stable over the next 10 years. 

Firewood gathering on State and private land is generally considered a minor activity. It was 

assumed that the same level of firewood gathering occurs on State and private land and provides the 

same baseline conditions there for these species, so potential effects would be minor. 

Cattle grazing: The Trego Analysis Area contains portions of two grazing allotments, the Trego 

Allotment and the Swamp/Fortine Allotment. The Trego Allotment allows 200 AUMs and the 

Swamp/Fortine Allotment allows 67 AUMs within the Trego Analysis Area.The South End Range EA, 

which follows Forest Plan direction, provides direction for the management of this allotment. 

Range management and identified resource enhancement work would facilitate better distribution of 

cattle grazing throughout the analysis area. Completion of range improvement work can create shortterm disturbances to riparian associated species, but would improve habitat for the fisher over the 

long term. In localized areas, excessive cattle use may limit riparian forage. Current range 

management emphasis is to maintain these sites through salting, herding, and restricting cattle 

access through the arrangement of slash and wood material. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable 

cattle grazing and range management within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute 

localized and minor effects to habitat security and habitat parameters required by the fisher. As the 

allotment does not include private or State land leases, cattle are generally herded away from these 

lands, especially if resource conflicts arise. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

Forest Plan: 

• All Alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for sensitive species (USDA Forest Service, 

1987a, Vol. 1, II-1 #6). 

• All Alternatives are consistent with Forest Plan riparian standards and guidelines (USDA 

Forest Service, 1987a, Vol. 1 II-28 thru 33) as amended by INFS. 

• All alternatives are consistent with Forest Plan direction for old growth below 5500’ (USDA 

Forest Service, 1987a, Vol. 1 II-1 #7; II-7; II-22 & 23; Appendix 17; and Kootenai FSM 

2432.22 Supplement No. 85). 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-133 

Statement of Findings 

Alternatives B, C, and D are likely to impact individuals and/or their habitat, but would not contribute 

to a trend toward federal listing or loss of species viability for the fisher. This determination is based 

on: 

 

1. All alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for the fisher under the sensitive species 

classification. Following Johnson (1999a), all action alternatives would maintain the potential 

population index (PPI) for fisher in the analysis area and across the Forest. 

2. The assessment of habitat parameters for fisher at the Trego Analysis Area level determined 

that all action alternatives would maintain suitable travel habitat within the analysis area. 

Alternatives would maintain connectivity within and between adjacent analysis areas. The 

only expected effect on individual animals may be short-term disturbance to fishers traveling 

through the analysis area during logging operations. 

3. Suitable habitat for the fisher is found forest-wide as documented in Johnson (1999a) and 

USDA Forest Service (2003b). 

3. FLAMMULATED OWL (Otus flammeolus) 

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Flammulated owl population ecology, biology, habitat description and relationships identified by 

research are summarized in Hayward and Verner (1994). More recent research on nesting, food 

habits, home range and territories, and habitat quality conducted in Colorado, Idaho, and Montana is 

discussed in Linkhart (2001), Linkhart and Reynolds (1997), Linkhart et al. (1998), Powers et al 

(1996), Wright (1996), and Wright et al. (1997). That information is incorporated by reference. 

Flammulated owl occurrence data comes from recent District wildlife observation records and Forest 

historical data (NRIS FAUNA). Flammulated owl habitat was modeled using TSMRS vegetation data 

and running the Kootenai TSMRS flammulated owl habitat model (Heinz, 1996b – unpublished). 

 

The Kootenai National Forest “A Conservation Plan: Based on The Kootenai National Forest Land 

Management Plan (as amended) (Johnson 2004a) determines potential population index (number of 

potential territories) for breeding pairs by dividing habitat acres by 40 acres. Changes to habitat and 

the resulting change to the potential population index were used to display the effects of the 

alternatives. 

The analysis boundary for project impacts and cumulative effects to individuals and their habitat is 

the Trego Analysis Area. The boundary for determining trend or viability is the Kootenai National 

Forest. The results of this analysis will provide a baseline condition for the next 10 year period when 

the Trego Analysis Area may be reexamined. 

Affected Environment 

Owl surveys on the Fortine Ranger District have confirmed the flammulated owl in one analysis area 

(Meadow) on the District. Flammulated owl surveys in the Trego Analysis Area (Fortine District Owl 

Surveys, 1993, 2005) did not document their presence. A Kootenai National Forest status summary 

of the flammulated owl was documented by Johnson (1999a unpublished). The summary shows that 

potential habitat occurs across all eight analysis areas. Forest-wide, there are 237,098 acres of 

potential habitat (Ibid 1999). Field surveys have confirmed flammulated owl presence in six of eight 

planning units, but the population size on the Kootenai National Forest is unknown (Johnson, 

1999a). 

Flammulated owl habitat modeling identified 799 acres of potential flammulated owl habitat in the 

Trego Analysis Area. Based on the average flammulated owl pair territory size and the modeled 

habitat acres, the potential population index for the NFS lands within the Trego Analysis Area is 17 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-134 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

flammulated owl pairs. Using the nesting (modeled) habitat acres from Johnson (1999a, 

unpublished); the minimum PPI for the Kootenai National Forest would be 5,927 flammulated owl 

pair. These estimates of PPI are considered high based on actual survey results. 

Environmental Consequences 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

• All action alternatives retain 17 potential nesting territories 

• All action alternatives meet Forest Plan standards for retaining at least 40% available snag 

habitat (at least one snag per acre). 

• All action alternatives would decommission a total of 12.47 miles of road within the analysis 

area. An additional 7.16 miles of road would be restricted year-long for a total of 19.63 miles 

of road. Of these road miles, 2.02 miles of road segments are within or adjacent to MA13 old 

growth habitat which would eliminate firewood gathering within and adjacent to old growth 

habitat as well as in stands supporting snags along these roads. Consequently, the 

availability of snag habitat would be maintained and improved over the long term in 

associated stands. 

• A number of design criteria or monitoring items would be implemented to maintain and 

improve snag habitat. Identified tasks include: the retention of snags and dead merchantable 

trees; retention of live cull and dead-top trees; retention of fire killed trees; retention of 

reserve trees; inoculating live trees with heart-rot pathogens to create live snags over the 

long term; provide for large woody material; and monitoring snag levels. 

• During logging operations, it is expected that flammulated owls may temporarily be displaced 

from activity areas. 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Table 3-38 below compares the effects of the alternatives on flammulated owl habitat. A discussion 

on those effects follows. 

Table 3-38. Effects of the Alternatives on Flammulated Owl Habitat 

on NFS Land in the Trego Analysis Area 

Activity Type or Habitat Acres and PPI (potential population 

index 

Alt.A 

No 

Action 

Alt. B Alt. C Alt. D 

Intermediate harvest/Ecosystem Burning by acres within 

potential territories 0/0 12/85 12/0 94/85 

Intermediate harvest acres outside of potential territories that may 

create owl habitat (w/in Warm/Dry VRU’s) 0 983 722 852 

Regeneration harvest greater than 8 acres in size outside of 

potential territories (w/in Warm/Dry VRU’s) 0 303 229 433 

Potential flammulated owl habitat within the Trego Analysis Area 799 799 799 799 

PPI – in the Trego Analysis Area (# potential territories) 17 17 17 17 

Potential flammulated owl habitat – Forest-wide 237,098 237,098 237,098 237,098 

PPI – Forest-wide (# potential territories) 5,927 5,927 5,927 5,927 

Proposed timber harvest has the potential to impact flammulated owl habitat. Selective logging that 

removes large ponderosa pine or Douglas-fir trees can decrease the availability of early-season 

feeding sites, song and roost sites, and trees for snag recruitment in areas already limited in large 

snag abundance (Wright 1996:77). Snag removal during timber harvest for OSHA safety standards 

also removes suitable habitat for flammulated owls. No selective harvest of this type is proposed in 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-135 

any alternative. Measures to maintain and improve snag habitat in all action alternatives are listed 

above (effects common to all action alternatives). Two activity types (Intermediate Harvest and 

Ecosystem Burning) are proposed within potential territories (See Table 3-38 above). Intermediate 

harvest is designed to leave the larger growing trees while thinning the understory. The stand 

remaining after this prescription, would more closely resemble the stands found historically with the 

frequent understory burns typical of the drier VRU types (See Fire/Fuels Section). Understory burns 

and/or slashing that results from the intermediate harvest may have short-term (2-3 years) negative 

effects on the availability of habitat for prey species, but in the long-term habitat for prey species 

would be maintained and/or increased due to the vigorous shrub/forb layer that would result from the 

fire. These activities would benefit flammulated owls (Illg and Illg 1994). 

 

All alternatives propose intermediate harvest in Warm/Dry VRU’s which may create flammulated owl 

habitat by thinning out the understory (See Table 3-38 above). This has been documented in 

Hayward and Verner where nesting or singing owls were found in selectively logged sites and also in 

British Columbia where selective logging was shown to produce the open stand structure that 

characterizes this owl’s habitat (Hayward and Verner, 1994). 

Some research has suggested that flammulated owls are not likely to forage further than 300 feet 

from forest cover (Goggans 1985). Regeneration harvest creating areas greater than 300 feet from 

cover would likely receive minimal use. This equates to a harvest unit of about 8 acres in size, or a 

relatively square unit 600 feet on each side. Those proposed regeneration harvest units that are 

greater than 8 acres in size would likely receive little or no foraging use until under story and midstory canopies develop. No regeneration harvest is proposed within potential territories in any 

alternative, therefore, there is no loss of habitat within territories due to regeneration harvest. 

Regeneration harvest outside of the potential identified territories and falling into the Warm/Dry 

VRU’s may be used as foraging habitat. Alternative D would decrease potential foraging habitat the 

most, while Alternative C would decrease potential forage by the fewest acres. 

All action alternatives retain the 17 potential nesting territories and the existing acres of flammulated 

owl habitat within these potential territories in the long term. There would be a short-term effect (2-3 

years) on the availability of habitat for the owl prey species on those acres of habitat that have 

Intermediate Harvest and Ecosystem Burning planned. Alternative D would have the most affect 

(See Table 3-38 above), while Alternative C would affect the fewest acres. All action alternatives 

retain the existing acres of flammulated owl habitat within the Trego Analysis Area and forest-wide. 

Therefore, there is no change in the PPI within the Trego Analysis Area or Forest-wide (See Table 3-

38 above). 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

No activities are proposed under Alternative A-No Action, so no direct effect to flammulated owls 

would occur. Plant succession would continue, resulting in an increasing canopy closure and 

increasing density of under story conifers. This plant succession could have an indirect effect on 

flammulated owls if they occur in the area since the owls forage in open areas within the drier 

ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir forest. An increasing density of under story conifers would decrease 

the available habitat for prey species, and may also impede flight maneuvers needed for foraging 

(Illg and Illg 1994:58). However, this succession is not expected to have an effect in the short-term 

(10 years). Therefore Alternative A would have no effect on the flammulated owl or its habitat. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Both fire suppression and the removal of large trees during the 1900's have probably been the most 

significant factors in the formation of the existing habitat conditions for the flammulated owl. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the snag habitat and associated species project file, 

considers and describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably 

foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible 
Chapter 3 

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3-136 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

effects on addressed species or their habitat are not included in this section. Those activities that 

cumulatively affect the species or habitat will be discussed below. They include activities that may 

affect the available snag habitat. These include private land development, vegetation harvest and 

firewood gathering.

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Development of private 

land, including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and 

installation of improvements, as well as vegetation management, can create a variety of changes to 

the landscape. Depending on the magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of 

private land on the landscape, these activities can have varied effects, including habitat loss, 

increased fragmentation, and localized disturbance on snag-dependant species. Because of past 

activities it is assumed that nesting habitat is limited on private land. Because of the territory 

requirements of some species, private land can provide additional feeding habitat opportunities. 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres for 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. Associated with this could be approximately 6 miles of road construction. 

Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these activities could take 

place in a spatially dispersed manner across the analysis area. Development of private lands within 

the analysis area could potentially reduce the amount of foraging habitat for flammulated owls. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Because of the existing roads, the amount of new road construction 

associated with the possible harvest is expected to be minor. Both state and private landowners 

generally restrict public use on their roads. Given the relatively small percentage of of area treated 

over the next 10 years, these activities would contribute minor effects to foraging habitat to old 

growth, or snag-dependent species. This does not represent a large portion of the private land and 

should not be a limiting factor for the flammulated owl. The action alternatives, in combination with 

other proposed and reasonably foreseeable Forest Service, State and private activities would 

contribute minor effects to flammulated owls and their habitat. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities, have 

modified the old growth and snag habitat within Trego Analysis Area. One current timber sale project 

(Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate harvest to thin overstocked stands. Fuel 

reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling with associated pile burning. Two 

current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) 

are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Post harvest 

activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect effects from ongoing activities were 

discussed in their associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to snag dependent 

species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary roads would be closed 

to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Salvage sales and associated activities can alter vegetation, reduce habitat security, and create 

localized disturbances. It is expected that ongoing and reasonably foreseeable salvage harvest and 

associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute localized and 

minor effects to habitat loss, increased fragmentation or connectivity on the landscape, or habitat 
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Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-137 

parameters required by the flammulated owl. 

Firewood gathering on National Forest land is a permitted use that occurs along all open roads 

except within MA 13 Old Growth areas. The availability of snags and down woody material will be 

reduced along the road influence zone. The ASH model accounts for this decrease in snags along 

open roads and reflects this in the ASH levels reported. Firewood gathering can also cause minor 

short-term localized displacement to species using the area. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable 

firewood gathering activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively result in localized 

and minor effects on snag habitat other habitat parameters required by the flammulated owl. 

Firewood gathering on State and private land is generally considered a minor activity. It was 

assumed that the same level of firewood gathering occurs on State and private land and provides the 

same baseline conditions there for these species, so potential effects would be minor. The level of 

firewood gathering is expected to remain fairly stable over the next 10 years. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

Forest Plan: 

• All Alternatives meet Forest plan direction for sensitive species (USDA Forest Service, 

1987a, Vol 1 II-1 #6). 

• All alternatives are consistent with Forest Plan direction for old growth below 5500’ (USDA 

Forest Service, 1987a, Vol. 1 II-1 #7; II-7; II-22 & 23; Appendix 17; and Kootenai FSM 

2432.22 Supplement No. 85). 

• All Alternatives meet Forest Plan standards for snags (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, Vol 1 II1 #8; II-22 & 23; and Appendix 16). 

Statement of Findings 

Alternatives B, C, and D are likely to impact individuals and/or their habitat, but would not contribute 

to a trend toward federal listing or loss of species viability for the flammulated owl. This determination 

is based on: 

1. Strategies and guidance found in the Interim Management Recommendations (USDA Forest 

Service, 1992) were followed in all alternatives. All alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for 

the flammulated owl under the sensitive species classification. 

2. The assessment of habitat parameters for the flammulated owl at the Trego Analysis Area level 

determined that all action alternatives would maintain suitable habitat within the analysis area. 

All alternatives would maintain sufficient well-distributed habitat and maintain the 17 existing 

territories. There would be a short-term (2-3 years) decrease in prey species from intermediate 

harvest and burning, which would be followed by an increase in shrubs that would result in an 

overall benefit for the owl. During logging operations, it is expected that flammulated owls may 

temporarily be displaced from activity areas. 

3. Suitable habitat for the flammulated owl is found forest-wide as documented in Johnson 

(1999a) and USDA Forest Service (2003b). 

4. Habitat for the flammulated owl is abundant and widespread in the Northern Region and shortterm viability for the flammulated owl in the Northern Region is not an issue according to 

Samson (2005). 

4. NORTHERN GOSHAWK (Accipiter gentilis) 

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Goshawk population ecology, biology, habitat description and relationships identified by research are 

described in McGrath et.al. (2003) and Reynolds et. al. (1992). That information is incorporated by 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-138 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

reference. Goshawk occurrence data comes from recent District wildlife observation records and 

Forest historical data (NRIS FAUNA). Goshawk habitat was modeled using TSMRS vegetation data 

and running the Kootenai goshawk habitat model (Heinz, 1996). The potential population index (PPI) 

(habitat acres divided by average territory acres) was calculated using 5,400 acres as the average 

goshawk pair territory (Reynolds et. al. 1992). The analysis boundary for project and cumulative 

impacts to individuals and their habitat is the Trego Analysis Area. The boundary for determining 

trend or viability is the Kootenai National Forest. The results of this analysis will provide a baseline 

condition for the next 10-year period when the analysis area may be re-examined. 

Affected Environment 

In consideration of cover types and stand structure, much of the Trego Analysis Area supports 

habitat for the goshawk. One potential goshawk nest was reported within the Trego Analysis Area, 

but recent calling surveys have not located birds within the area. Calling surveys were done the 

summer of 2004 and 2005 within the analysis area. No goshawk were detected, however, it is 

suspected that goshawk inhabit the area. Goshawk presence has been confirmed in all eight 

planning units on the Kootenai (Johnson, 1999a). At the end of 2003, Forest survey records show 37 

nest sites, with three sites no longer in use. 

Goshawk habitat modeling identifies 8058 acres of potential goshawk habitat in the Trego Analysis 

Area (See Table 3-39, below, and map in Goshawk Project File). This habitat is located across the 

landscape and provides enough habitat to support 2 theoretical goshawk territories (Reynolds et. al., 

1992). Each territory supports sufficient amounts of nesting and foraging habitat to provide viable 

habitat conditions for the goshawk. There are numerous blocks of nesting habitat in each territory 

which lie within .6 miles of each other. Both territories have large openings and private land 

interspersed among the nesting and feeding habitat. These openings may slightly increase predation 

on the goshawk, however they will also use openings to forage in. A large percentage of the lower 

elevations within the Analysis Area lie within private land. It is expected that goshawks within the 

Trego Analysis Area would use adjacent private land as part of their territory. Overall, the distribution 

of forage and nesting habitat is good. 

Table 3-39. Existing Habitat Conditions for the Goshawk 

Territory 

(acres) 

Acres of nesting habitat 

(nesting also provides 

foraging habitat) 

Acres of foraging habitat 

Territory 1 

(5835 acres) 807 3945 

Territory 2 

 (5895 acres) 794 4113 

Recommended 

Territories>5400 acres 

Meets 

2 sites; each >25 acres 

 in size and within .6 mile 

Meets 

foraging stands>100 ac; total foraging 

habitat >3,000 acres 

Meets 

Based on the average goshawk pair territory and the modeled habitat acres, the potential population 

index for the Trego Analysis Area is two goshawk pairs. Using the nesting (modeled) habitat acres 

from Johnson, 1999a, the minimum PPI for the Kootenai National Forest would be 139 goshawk pair. 

The most recent data show 34 suspected pairs and an additional 10 known individual goshawks on 

the Forest (KNF goshawk data). Forest-wide surveys completed the summer of 2005 by the Montana 

Natural Heritage Program are being compiled and goshawk pair data will be updated when available. 

Environmental Consequences 

Measurement indicators used to evaluate goshawk habitat are described above. Direct and indirect 

effects on goshawk habitat are described below for proposed activities and for other resource 

enhancement projects identified in Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered for all past, 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-139 

current and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1 and are described at the end of this 

section. 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

• Burning would improve the vigor and availability of grasses, forbs, and shrubs which provide 

forage for species on which the goshawk may feed. Burning is not expected to decrease the 

value of foraging and nesting habitat. 

 

• All alternatives would maintain existing riparian vegetation by following INFISH direction. 

 

• All alternatives would retain sufficient amounts and distribution of potential foraging and 

nesting habitat to maintain two viable goshawk territories. 

 

• All action alternatives list Resource Enhancement Projects (See Table 2-1) that would be 

implemented to improve stream channel and riparian conditions. The opportunities that 

would improve the riparian condition, and therefore foraging habitat for the goshawk include: 

failing log culvert removal which would return water flow to its channel, and controlling cattle 

grazing within disturbed riparian areas. 

• All action alternatives would decommission 1.12 miles of road segments within or adjacent 

to old growth and restrict yearlong .9 miles of road segment within or adjacent to old growth. 

These proposed road restrictions would eliminate firewood gathering on 2.02 miles of road 

within and adjacent to old growth habitat. Consequently, the availability of snag habitat 

would be maintained and improved over the long term in these areas. 

• A number of Design Criteria listed in Table 2-10 as well as Resource Enhancement Projects 

(Table 2-1) would be implemented to maintain and improve snag habitat. Identified tasks 

include: the retention of snags and dead merchantable trees; retention of live cull and deadtop trees; retention of fire killed trees; retention of reserve trees; signing old growth areas to 

prevent firewood harvest in these areas; inoculating live trees with heart-rot pathogens to 

create snags over the long term; and monitoring snag levels. 

• During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to goshawks inhabiting the 

analysis area. Any nest tree observed during unit layout or logging would be protected and 

timing of harvest would be coordinated to not disturb nesting pairs. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect 

Table 3-40. Habitat Conditions for the Goshawk by Alternative

Territory # 

Alternative A 

Existing 

condition 

(habitat loss 

acres) 

Alternative B 

Habitat 

remaining 

(habitat loss in 

acres) 

Alternative C 

Habitat 

remaining 

(habitat loss in 

acres) 

Alternative D 

Habitat 

remaining 

(habitat loss in 

acres) 

#1 – 5835 acres 

Nesting Habitat 807 (0) 698 (110) 758 (50) 577 (130) 

Foraging Habitat 3945 (0) 3808(137) 3824 (121) 3727 (218) 

#2- 5895 acres 

Nesting Habitat 794 (0) 740 (54) 744 (50) 720 (74) 

Foraging Habitat 4113 (0) 3966 (147) 4025 (88) 3914 (199) 

Nesting Habitat: Alternatives D and B reduce potential nesting habitat more than alternative C in all 

territories through regeneration, intermediate, and fuels treatment harvest prescriptions (See Table 
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3-140 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

3-40 above). It is expected that nesting habitat treated through intermediate and fuels treatment 

harvest would provide marginal nesting opportunities for the next 20-30 years. The reduction in 

nesting habitat in all alternatives is spread throughout both territories. All alternatives maintain at 

least two suitable nesting territories within 0.6 miles of each other. All alternatives also would 

continue to provide enough well-distributed nesting habitat to maintain the two potential territories. 

Foraging Habitat: Foraging habitat would be reduced only by the regeneration harvest prescription. 

Alternative D reduces foraging habitat the most of any alternative because it contains the most 

regeneration harvest of any alternative. Alternative C reduces foraging the habitat the least amount. 

Alternative C reduces foraging habitat slightly less than Alternative B (See Table 3-41 below). All 

alternatives would also treat foraging habitat through intermediate and fuels treatment prescriptions. 

These harvest prescriptions can improve the foraging opportunities within treated stands by opening 

up the stand, allowing unimpeded flight and potentially increasing the forage base for their prey. All 

alternatives maintain at least 3000 acres of foraging habitat in each potential territory, and the 

distribution of foraging habitat remains good in each of the three potential goshawk territories. 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect 

During the next 10 years, existing conditions are not expected to change significantly. This 

alternative would not use intermediate or fuels treatment prescriptions or prescribed fire as a tool to 

improve the availability and vigor of grasses, forbs, and shrubs (forage for species on which 

goshawk feed). This alternative would not implement the road restrictions/closures proposed by the 

action alternatives that would improve snag habitat along these roads. The exclusion of fire may 

increase the risk for future stand-replacement fires. Because no direct effects are expected with the 

implementation of this alternative, Alternative A would have no effect on the goshawk or its habitat. 

Table 3-41. Changes in Habitat Acres and PPI from Each Alternative. 

Alternative A 

(No Action) 

(Existing Condition) 

Alt. B Alt. C Alt. D 

Trego Analysis Area Habitat Acres Remaining 

(% change) 

8,058 

(0%) 

7774 

(3.5%) 

7849 

(2.6%) 

7641 

(5.2) 

PPI – Trego Analysis Area Territories 2 2 2 2 

Forest-wide Habitat Acres Remaining 

(% change) 

752,296 acres 

(0%) 

752,012 

(.04%) 

752,087 

(.03%) 

751,879 

(.06%) 

PPI - Forest-wide Pair Territories 139 139 139 139 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Past timber harvest and road construction projects, and natural events have created much of the 

existing habitat conditions for the goshawk found within the Trego Analysis Area.. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the sensitive wildlife species project file, considers and 

describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current and reasonably foreseeable activities 

listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on addressed 

species or their habitat are not included in this section. Those activities that cumulatively affect the 

species or habitat will be discussed below. Activities that may affect the riparian area, old growth and 

available snag habitat include vegetation management, private land development, firewood 

gathering and resource enhancements. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities, have 

modified the old growth and snag habitat within Trego Analysis Area. One current timber sale project 

(Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate harvest to thin overstocked stands. Fuel 

reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling with associated pile burning. Two 

current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-141 

are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Post harvest 

activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect effects from ongoing activities were 

discussed in their associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to snag and old 

growth dependent species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary 

roads would be closed to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Salvage sales and associated activities can alter vegetation, reduce habitat security, and create 

localized disturbances. It is expected that ongoing and reasonably foreseeable salvage harvest and 

associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute localized and 

minor effects to habitat loss, increased fragmentation or connectivity on the landscape, or habitat 

parameters required by the goshawk. 

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Land development, 

including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and installation 

of improvements, as well as vegetation management, can create a variety of changes to the 

landscape. Depending on the magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of 

private land on the landscape, these activities can have varied effects, including habitat loss, 

increase in fragmentation, and localized disturbance on snag or old growth-dependant species. 

Because of past disturbances, nesting habitat is assumed to be limited on private land. Because of 

the territory requirements of some species, private land can provide additional feeding habitat 

opportunities. 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres for 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. Associated with this could be approximately 6 miles of road construction. 

Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these activities could take 

place in a spatially dispersed manner across the analysis area. Development of private lands within 

the analysis area could potentially reduce the amount of foraging habitat for some old growth 

associated species 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Because of the existing roads, the amount of new road construction 

associated with the possible harvest is expected to be minor. Both state and private landowners 

generally restrict public use on their roads. Given the relatively small percentage of area treated 

over the next 10 years, these activities would contribute minor effects to foraging habitat to old 

growth or snag-dependent species. 

All activities on private may result in the loss of foraging opportunities for some old growth 

associated species. However, given the amount of old growth on Forest Service lands, as well as 

other Forest Service stands that provide foraging habitat, this should not be a limiting factor for old 

growth dependant species within the analysis area. The action alternatives, in combination with other 

proposed and reasonably foreseeable Forest Service, State and private activities would maintain the 

designated management level of old growth. 

Firewood gathering: Firewood gathering on National Forest land is a permitted use that occurs 

along all open roads except within MA 13 Old Growth areas. Many of the designated old growth 
Chapter 3 

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3-142 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

stands located along open roads have been signed to prohibit firewood gathering. As some of the 

old growth associated species also use other adjacent habitat, loss of snags in these areas can 

affect habitat suitability. Outside of designated old growth habitat, the availability of snags and down 

woody material will be reduced along the road influence zone. The Available Snag Habitat (ASH) 

model accounts for this decrease in snags along open roads and reflects this in the ASH levels 

reported. Firewood gathering can also cause minor short-term localized displacement to species 

using the area. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable firewood gathering activities within the Trego 

Analysis Area would cumulatively result in localized and minor effects on snag and old growth 

associated wildlife species. 

Firewood gathering on State and private land is generally considered a minor activity. It was 

assumed that the same level of firewood gathering occurs on State and private land; so potential 

effects to snags would be minor. The level of firewood gathering is expected to remain fairly stable 

over the next 10 years. 

Resource Enhancement Projects: This project identified a number of watershed Resource 

Enhancement Projects listed in Table 2-1 Additional restoration work is anticipated to occur within 

the analysis over the next 10 years. The findings of this assessment conclude that ongoing and 

reasonably foreseeable watershed restoration activities within the Trego Analysis Area would 

cumulatively contribute localized and minor effects to habitat security, fragmentation or connectivity 

on the landscape, or other habitat parameters required by the goshawk. Some of these activities 

may cause a short-term disturbance to goshawk, but would improve habitat over the long term. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

Forest Plan: 

• All Alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for sensitive species (USDA Forest Service, 

1987a, Vol. 1, II-1 #6). 

• All alternatives are consistent with Forest Plan direction for old growth below 5500’ (USDA 

Forest Service, 1987a, Vol. 1 II-1 #7; II-7; II-22 & 23; Appendix 17; and Kootenai FSM 

2432.22 Supplement No. 85). 

Statement of Findings 

Alternatives B, C, and D are likely to impact individuals and/or their habitat, but would not contribute 

to a trend toward federal listing or loss of species viability for the northern goshawk. This 

determination is based on the following: 

1. All alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for the goshawk under the sensitive species 

classification. 

2. The assessment of habitat parameters for goshawk at the Trego Analysis Area level 

determined that all action alternatives would maintain suitable habitat within the analysis area. 

These alternatives maintain a sufficient amount and distribution of nesting and foraging habitat 

to maintain two goshawk territories. The only expected effect to individual birds may be a shortterm disturbance to goshawks during logging operations. Identified nest trees and active nests 

sites would be maintained. 

3. Suitable, well-distributed habitat for the goshawk is found forest-wide is documented in Johnson 

(1999a) and USDA Forest Service (2003b). 

4. Based on a region-wide conservation assessment, habitat for the goshawk is abundant and 

well-distributed in the Northern Region (Samson, 2005). 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-143 

5. TOWNSEND’S BIG-EARED BAT (Plecotus Townsendii)

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Townsend’s big-eared bat population ecology, biology, habitat description and relationships 

identified by research are described in the following: Reel et al. (1989), Perkins and Schommer 

(1991), Kunz and Martin (1982), Montana Natural Heritage Program (1993), Christy and West 

(1993), Ross (1967), Whitaker and others (1977), Thomas and West (1991), and Pierson et al. 

(1999). That information is incorporated by reference. Townsend big-eared bat occurrence data 

comes from recent District wildlife survey records and Forest historical data (NRIS FAUNA) and 

other agencies (Montana Natural Heritage Program). 

All known caves, mines, or tunnels, lakes, and old growth were located within the Trego Analysis 

Area. Caves, mines and tunnels were located through District records, field surveys, and mineral 

maps. Old growth stands were identified using the Kootenai National Forest Old Growth Stand 

Layer. 

The analysis boundary for project and cumulative impacts to individuals and their habitat is the Trego 

Analysis Area. The boundary for determining trend or viability is the Kootenai National Forest. 

Affected Environment 

A Kootenai National Forest status summary of the Townsend’s big-eared bat was documented by 

Johnson (1999a). Surveys of the Kootenai NF (1993-1995) by Hendricks et al. (1995, 1996) have 

located the species in all planning units (Johnson 1999a) but no key roosting sites such as caves or 

mines have been located. Population size on the KNF is unknown. 

 

Big-eared bats are known to feed along forest edges, and can be associated with either dry or wet 

type coniferous forests. The species show a preference for old growth forest for roosting habitat 

(Thomas and West 1991). Young and mature forests are used for feeding (Ibid), with primary 

foraging areas near lakes (Grindal 1995). The species has been documented in the Trego Analysis 

Area in the Lime Creek Drainage (Hendricks et al. 1995, 1996). 

No mines or caves are known to exist within the Trego Analysis Area. As the Townsend’s big-eared 

bat has the potential to roost in tree cavities (Perkins and Schommer 1991, MNHP 1993), the larger 

diameter snags or trees with cavities in the area could be used for summer roosting. As discussed in 

the Old Growth Sction of this document, the Trego Analysis Area has 13.2% effective old growth 

designated, and 22.4% total old growth acres, both designated and undesignated. These stands 

and the remaining timbered habitat provide suitable roosting habitat in the form of large snags with 

cavities, as well as abundant foraging habitat across the forest landscape. The analysis for cavity 

habitat within the Trego Analysis Area determined that the cavity habitat potential (CHP) on NFS 

lands was 60%. Please see the Snag Habitat Section of this document for a more detailed 

discussion. 

Environmental Consequences 

In the absence of natural caves or underground mining adits suitable for the bat, the effects of the 

proposed actions on the Townsend's big-eared bat were determined using the analyses performed 

for snag and old growth habitat displayed within this document. 

Direct and indirect effects on big-eared bat habitat are described below for proposed activities and 

for other resource enhancement projects identified in Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered 

for all past, current and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1 and are described at the 

end of this section. 
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3-144 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

All action alternatives maintain snag and old growth forest levels throughout the Trego Analysis Area 

that exceed the minimum levels necessary to support viable populations of snag-dependent and old 

growth associated species (See Snag and Old Growth Sections). None of the action alternatives 

propose to harvest or burn within designated MA13 old growth habitat. Many of the largest snags 

occur within the old growth stands which are well-distributed across the landscape. Proposed 

regeneration units are also well-distributed. 

 

All action alternatives would decommission 1.12 miles of road segments within or adjacent to old 

growth and restrict yearlong .9 miles of road segment within or adjacent to old growth. These 

proposed road restrictions would eliminate firewood gathering on 2.02 miles of road within and 

adjacent to old growth habitat. Consequently, the availability of snag habitat would be maintained 

and improved over the long term in these areas. 

A number of Design Criteria listed in Chapter 2 Table 2-10 as well as Resource Enhancement 

Projects displayed in Table 2-1 would be implemented to maintain and improve snag habitat. 

Identified tasks include: the retention of snags and dead merchantable trees; retention of live cull and 

dead-top trees; retention of fire killed trees; retention of reserve trees; signing old growth areas along 

open roads to prevent firewood harvest in these areas; inoculating live trees with heart-rot pathogens 

to create snags over the long term; and monitoring snag levels. 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Under Alternative A, No Action, no activities are proposed, and no Townsend's big-eared bats would 

be directly disturbed by any timber harvest or associated slashing and/or under burning. No direct 

effects to Townsend's big eared bats would be expected. Plant succession would continue on many 

of the sites, resulting in an increasing canopy closure and increasing density of under story conifers. 

This plant succession may have an indirect effect on Townsend's big eared-bats since they forage in 

open areas within forests and the increasing density of under story conifers may decrease the 

available habitat for prey species. It may also impede flight maneuvers needed for foraging. If a wild 

land fire was to occur, potential key roosting habitat (caves or mines) are not likely to be impacted. 

There would be no expected change in the existing condition with implementation of the No Action 

Alternative. On NFS lands, no direct effect to cavity habitat potential would occur, and Cavity Habitat 

Potential would remain at 60%. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect 

Under Alternatives B, C, and D, regeneration and intermediate harvest activities have the potential 

to disturb or reduce day roosting habitat (trees and snags with cavities or thick bark). Intermediate 

harvest that opened up suitable habitat, or edge habitat created may improve foraging opportunities 

for bats that use the area. While all alternatives meet Forest Plan standards for retaining snag 

habitat, Alternative C maintains the highest level of snag habitat, followed by B then D. 

All action alternatives propose underburning for fuel treatment and site preparation after harvest. 

Alternative D proposed the highest number of acres to be burned followed by Alternative B, then 

C. Alternatives B and D propose underburning within 224 acres of undesignated old growth while 

Alternative C does not underburn any acres of undesignataed old growth (See Old Growth Section). 

Underburning may burn up some snags but would create others. 

Disturbance or mortality of bats could occur if bats were using a snag that was cut down during 

harvest. Displacement could occur during prescribed burning. Effects would be site-specific, affecting 

individuals rather than colonies, and are not likely to affect the viability of Townsend’s big-eared bats. 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-145 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Past road construction projects, tree harvest, fire suppression, and natural events have created the 

existing habitat conditions for the big-eared bat. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the snag habitat and associated species project file, 

considers and describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably 

foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible 

effects on addressed species or their habitat are not included in this section. Those activities that 

cumulatively affect the species or habitat will be discussed below. These are firewood gathering, 

private land development, and vegetation management.

Firewood gathering: Firewood gathering on National Forest land is a permitted use that occurs 

along all open roads except within MA 13 Old Growth areas. Many of the designated old growth 

stands located along open roads have been signed to prohibit firewood gathering. As some of the 

old growth associated species also use other adjacent habitat, loss of snags in these areas can 

affect habitat suitability. Outside of designated old growth habitat, the availability of snags and down 

woody material would be reduced along the road influence zone. The Available Snag Habitat (ASH) 

model accounts for this decrease in snags along open roads and reflects this in the ASH levels 

reported. Firewood gathering can also cause minor short-term localized displacement to species 

using the area. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable firewood gathering activities within the Trego 

Analysis Area would cumulatively result in localized and minor effects on snag habitat and 

associated wildlife species. 

Firewood gathering on State and private land is generally considered a minor activity. It was 

assumed that the same level of firewood gathering occurs on State and private land; so potential 

effects to snags would be minor. The level of firewood gathering is expected to remain fairly stable 

over the next 10 years. 

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Development of private 

land, including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and 

installation of improvements, as well as vegetation management, can create a variety of changes to 

the landscape. Depending on the magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of 

private land on the landscape, these activities can have varied effects, including habitat loss, 

increased fragmentation, and localized disturbance on snag-dependant species. Because of past 

activities it is assumed that nesting habitat is limited on private land. Because of the territory 

requirements of some species, private land can provide additional feeding habitat opportunities. 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres for 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. Associated with this could be approximately 6 miles of road construction. 

Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these activities could take 

place in a spatially dispersed manner across the analysis area. Development of private lands within 

the analysis area could potentially reduce the amount of foraging habitat for snag-dependant 

species. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Because of the existing roads, the amount of new road construction 

associated with the possible harvest is expected to be minor. Both state and private landowners 

generally restrict public use on their roads. Given the relatively small percentage of of area treated 

over the next 10 years, these activities would contribute minor effects to foraging habitat to old 

growth or snag-dependent species. 

All activities on private may result in the loss of foraging opportunities for some old growth or snag 

associated species. However, given the amount of old growth on Forest Service lands, as well as 
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3-146 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

other Forest Service stands that provide foraging habitat, this should not be a limiting factor for old 

growth dependant species within the analysis area. The action alternatives, in combination with other 

proposed and reasonably foreseeable Forest Service, State and private activities would maintain the 

habitat for the big-eared bat. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities, have 

modified the old growth and snag habitat within Trego Analysis Area. One current timber sale project 

(Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate harvest to thin overstocked stands. Fuel 

reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling with associated pile burning. Two 

current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) 

are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Post harvest 

activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect effects from ongoing activities were 

discussed in their associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to snag and old 

growth dependent species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary 

roads would be closed to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Salvage sales and associated activities can alter vegetation, reduce habitat security, and create 

localized disturbances. It is expected that ongoing and reasonably foreseeable salvage harvest and 

associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute localized and 

minor effects to habitat loss, increased fragmentation or connectivity on the landscape, or habitat 

parameters required by the big-eared bat. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

All Alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for sensitive species (1987a, Vol. II-1 #6). All alternatives 

are consistent with Forest Plan direction for old growth below 5500’ (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, 

Vol. 1 II-1 #7; II-7; II-22 & 23; Appendix 17; and Kootenai FSM 2432.22 Supplement No. 85). All 

Alternatives meet Forest Plan standards for snags and down wood (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, 

Vol. II-1 #8; II-22 & 23 and Appendix 16). 

Statement of Findings 

Alternatives B, C, and D are likely to impact individuals and/or their habitat, but would not contribute 

to a trend toward federal listing or loss of species viability for Townsend’s big-eared bat. This 

determination is based on the following: 

1. All alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for snags and old growth habitat (refer to Old Growth 

and Snag Habitat Sections of this document). All alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for the 

big-eared bat under the sensitive species classification. 

2. The assessment of habitat parameters for big-eared bat at the Trego Analysis Area level 

determined that all action alternatives would maintain suitable habitat within the analysis area. 

In summary, there are no known or suspected occurrences of natural caves, mines or mining 

tunnels within the Trego Analysis Area. It is also expected that by maintaining a good 

distribution and sufficient amounts of snag habitat within the area, this would continue to 

provide viable habitat for individuals that inhabit the Trego Analysis Area. The only expected 

effect on individual animals is that during logging operations, there may be short-term 

disturbance and loss of individual roost trees within the harvest units. 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-147 

3. Suitable cavity habitat for the big-eared bat is found forest-wide as documented in Johnson, 

1999a and USDA Forest Service, 2003b. 

6. WESTERN TOAD (Bufo boreas boreas) 

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Western toad ecology, biology, habitat use, status and conservation are described and summarized 

in Maxell (2000) and Reichel and Flath (1995). That information is incorporated by reference. 

Western toad occurrence data comes from District wildlife observation records and Forest historical 

data (NRIS FAUNA) and other agencies (Montana Natural Heritage Program). 

A description of measurement indicators used to compare the alternative impacts on the western 

toad and its habitat includes: 

1) known breeding/rearing habitat impacted 

2) acres of upland foraging habitat harvested and burned 

3) acres of upland foraging habitat (prescribed burned only) 

The analysis boundary for direct and indirect project impacts and cumulative effects to individuals 

and their habitat is the Trego Analysis Area. The boundary for determining trend or viability is the 

Kootenai National Forest. 

Affected Environment 

Western toads require over-wintering, breeding/rearing, and foraging habitat, and may also be 

dependant on habitats suitable for migration if the three required habitat types are isolated spatially 

(Maxell 2000). As summarized in Maxell (2000), over-wintering may take place in underground 

caverns or in rodent burrows; breeding/rearing takes place in aquatic sites such as shallow areas of 

large and small lakes or temporary ponds; and foraging habitat is largely terrestrial uplands. The 

highest elevation the species has been documented in Montana is 9,220 feet. 

A Kootenai National Forest status summary of the western toad was documented by Johnson 

(1999a). The species has been found in seven of the eight planning units. The population size is 

unknown and direct measures of population trend on the Kootenai are not available (Ibid 1999). 

However, many surveys have been conducted on the Forest since 1993. Historic and active 

breeding sites by planning unit on the Kootenai National Forest are summarized by Johnson (1999a) 

and show that Forest-wide, approximately 35 breeding sites were verified between 1995 and 1998 

(ibid). 

Since 1996, the Fortine District has conducted annual amphibian surveys (located in the District 

project files). The surveys include many of the lakes, ponds, and wetlands found on the District. 

These surveys have identified the presence of boreal toad throughout the District. The results of 

these surveys are being included in the updated records maintained by the Montana Natural 

Heritage Program. 

Surveys within the Trego Analysis Area have not identified the presence of the boreal toad, however 

an incidental sighting in the spring of 2005 identified tadpoles in the Analysis Area. Additional 

breeding habitat is likely to occur in wetlands, temporal ponds and road ditches. For the most part, 

riparian habitat around these habitats is intact and in good condition. The terrestrial habitat within the 

Trego Analysis Area is considered upland foraging habitat. 

Environmental Consequences 

Quantitative data regarding the western toad's use of upland and forested habitats is limited. 

Western toads are known to migrate between the aquatic breeding and terrestrial non-breeding 

habitats (The Nature Conservency Database 1999). Movement of toads has been documented from 
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3-148 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

2.5 km to over 5 km between breeding sites (Corn et al. 1998, Bartelt and Peterson 1994). 

Movement in foraging areas was documented to be significantly influenced by the distribution of 

shrub cover, and toads may have avoided macro-habitats with little or no canopy and shrub cover 

(such as clearcuts) (Bartelt and Peterson 1994). Underground burrows and debris were important 

components of toad selected micro-sites in a variety of macro-habitats. The western toad digs its 

own burrow in loose soil or uses those of small mammals, or shelters under logs or rocks, 

suggesting the importance of coarse woody debris on the forest floor (Ibid). Project activities (e.g. 

timber harvest, prescribed fire) that remove vegetation resulting in reduced canopy and/or shrub 

cover or reduced coarse woody debris are likely to impact western toad habitat and toad use 

patterns. Soil compaction from ground based logging machines may impact over-wintering habitat 

(burrow sites). 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

• All alternatives would maintain existing breeding and rearing habitat by following INFS 

direction. All activities associated with timber harvest and prescribed fire would be consistent 

with INFS and direct or indirect effects on riparian habitat (potential breeding sites) 

associated with the western toad would be unlikely. No harvest would occur within 

Streamside Management Zones. 

• Existing large down woody material would be left within the harvest units through skid trail 

design and avoidance when possible. 

• No road construction is proposed in any alternative. 

• All action alternatives meet Forest Plan standards for retaining snag habitat. This ensures 

that future down woody material would be available. 

• Prescribed burns would not be initiated within riparian systems. Occasionally, fire may creep 

down into riparian habitat from areas lit higher on the slope. Because of the higher moisture 

levels within riparian zones, it is expected that very little of the riparian vegetation would 

burn. 

• This project identified watershed and aquatic habitat enhancement projects including culvert 

removals and cattle exclosures. These opportunities are dependent upon funding, but are 

expected to enhance habitat for the western toad when completed. During the completion of 

these projects (short term), activities may displace or harm individuals; however, the benefits 

to the population upon completion (long term) out weigh the risk to a few individuals. 

• During the non-breeding period, western toads may inhabit upland areas. Proposed harvest 

activities within the upland habitat may harm or displace individuals that are in the area. 

Prescribed fire may also harm some individual western toads. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect 

Table 3-42 summarizes the direct and indirect changes in habitat acres by each alternative. 

Table 3-42. Toad Habitat Impacted by Alternative on NFS lands in the Trego Analysis Area 

Comparison Criteria 

Existing 

Condition 

Alt. A 

Alt. B Alt. C Alt. D 

Known breeding or rearing habitat/ # sites impacted 1/0 1/0 1/0 1/0 

Acres upland foraging habitat proposed to be harvested 0 1634 1506 2023 

Acres upland foraging habitat treated by prescribed burned only 0 730 458 730 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-149 

Timber Harvest and Road Building 

Maxell (2000) showed the effect of timber harvest on amphibians in Montana has been studied only 

once. A review of the available literature by Semlitsch (2000) in the United States indicates timber 

harvest and road construction activities can impact aquatic breeding habitat by altering the 

hydrological cycle of wetlands which can impair completion of larval metamorphosis through early 

pond drying (hydroperiod shortened), or through increased predation (if hydroperiod is lengthened). 

Aquatic habitat quality can also be reduced by sedimentation and increased water temperatures. 

The effects of timber harvest on upland habitats are summarized in Semlitsch (2000) and include 

elimination of shade, increase surface temperatures, disruption and compaction of soil structure, 

reduction in soil moisture, removal of coarse woody debris, and sedimentation of aquatic habitats 

from logging roads. The fragmentation of natural habitats from timber harvesting and road building 

may impede dispersal and decreases the probability of wetland re-colonization (Semlitsch 2000). 

Timber harvest (especially clearcutting) and associated silvicultural practices appear detrimental to 

terrestrial amphibian populations (Bury et al. 2000). Impacts from intensive forest management (e.g., 

even-aged harvesting) practices extend beyond the boundaries of harvested stands (deMaynadier 

and Hunter 1998). Recommendations for buffer zones and terrestrial habitats for corridors of 

movement for amphibian species are discussed by several authors (Semlitsch 1998, Hannon et al 

2002). Western toads are considered to be more terrestrial generalists (deMaynadier and Hunter 

1998), and tend to be more tolerant than salamanders of forest edges, tree harvests, and declining 

patch size (Renken et al 2004). 

Proposed timber harvest activity could result in incidental mortality to western toads due to ground 

disturbance. 

Alternative D has the greatest potential for impacting toads or their habitat with timber harvest. 

Alternative B and Alternative C would be similar in their timber harvest effects. Please see Table 

3-42 for acreage comparisons. 

Fire

There are currently no studies addressing the effects of fires on terrestrial amphibians in the Pacific 

Northwest (Bury et al. 2000). A review of the available literature by Russell et al. (1999) indicates 

that replacement of the fire-adapted vegetation by fire-intolerant associations indirectly leads to 

concomitant declines in overall herpetofaunal abundance and diversity. Without fire, species that use 

or can tolerate dense vegetation would be benefited, while those species that prefer open sites 

would continue to decrease over time. 

There are few reports of fire-caused injury to herpetofauna even though many of these animals, 

particularly amphibians, have limited mobility (Russell et al. 1999).The resultant microsite variation 

within burns may account for observations that fire has little effect on herpetofaunal species (Lyon et 

al. 2000). Maintaining preferred or required habitat features presumably outweighs any fire-induced 

mortality that occurs (Russell et al 1999). Mortality may be associated with the direct and indirect 

effects of fire that alter prey availability or change shelter and microclimate (Lyon et al 2000, Russell 

et al. 1999). Indirectly, although fire-induced disturbance may decrease herpetofauna within a 

particular patch, the prescribed burning should result in a mosaic of successional stages and habitat 

structure that should increase diversity on a broader scale (Russell et al. 1999). 

Alternatives B and D propose the same amount of understory burning without harvest activities 

(See Table 3-42 above) while Alternative C proposes 272 fewer acres. 

Site preparation burning in timber harvest units is also proposed under all alternatives. Alternative D

would treat the most acreage (1250) followed by Alternative B (913), then Alternative C (683). 

Slash/and or burning activities would occur on 139 acres in Alternative C, while Alternatives B 

and D would treat 182 acres. 
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3-150 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect 

Under Alternative A, No Action, no Forest Service harvest or prescribed burning would take place. 

No direct effect to the western toad would be expected with this alternative. Plant succession would 

continue on the sites. Indirectly, this would result in an increase in canopy closure and density of 

understory conifers. This increase in canopy closure and understory conifer density would have no 

direct, or indirect effect on breeding habitat, and little if any effect on upland habitat. Fuels would 

continue to accumulate on the upland sites. Should wildland fire occur, the aquatic breeding habitats 

would not be expected to be directly affected, however surrounding upland habitat could be burned. 

Western toads have been noted to re-colonize burned areas the following year with vegetation regrowth (B. Maxell, personal communication). 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

The geology of the watershed, past timber harvest, road construction projects, and natural events 

has created much of the existing habitat conditions for western toads found within the analysis area. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the sensitive wildlife species project file, considers and 

describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities 

listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on addressed 

species or their habitat are not included in this section. Those activities that cumulatively affect the 

species or habitat will be discussed below. These include private land development, vegetation 

management, resource enhancement projects, and range improvements.

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities, have 

modified the old growth and snag habitat within Trego Analysis Area. One current timber sale project 

(Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate harvest to thin overstocked stands. Fuel 

reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling with associated pile burning. Two 

current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) 

are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Post harvest 

activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect effects from ongoing activities were 

discussed in their associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to snag and old 

growth dependent species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary 

roads would be closed to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Salvage sales and associated activities can alter vegetation, reduce habitat security, and create 

localized disturbances. It is expected that ongoing and reasonably foreseeable salvage harvest and 

associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute localized and 

minor effects to habitat security, availability of hiding cover, fragmentation or connectivity on the 

landscape, or other habitat parameters required by the western toad. 

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Development of private 

land, including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and 

installation of improvements, as well as vegetation management, can create a variety of changes to 

the landscape. Depending on the magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of 

private land on the landscape, these activities can have varied effects, including habitat loss, 

increased fragmentation, and localized disturbance on western toads. 
Wildlife Resources 

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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-151 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres for 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. Associated with this could be approximately 6 miles of road construction. 

Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these activities could take 

place in a spatially dispersed manner across the analysis area. This would result in a loss of at least 

12 acres of upland habitat for the toad not counting the new road construction. These acres of lost 

habitat will affect individuals in the short-term, however the number of roads planned for 

decommissioning on the public ground, and road improvements should help offset those acres lost 

on private land over the long term.

 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Because of the existing roads, the amount of new road construction 

associated with the possible harvest is expected to be minor. Both state and private landowners 

generally restrict public use on their roads. Given the relatively small percentage of of area treated 

over the next 10 years, these activities would contribute minor effects to western toads and their 

habitat. 

Resource Enhancement Projects: This project identified a number of watershed resource 

enhancement projects. Additional restoration work is anticipated to occur within the analysis over the 

next 10 years. The findings of this assessment conclude that ongoing and reasonably foreseeable 

watershed restoration activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute 

localized and minor effects to fragmentation or connectivity on the landscape or habitat parameters 

required by the toad. Some of these activities may cause a short-term disturbance to toads, but 

would improve habitat for the toad over the long term. 

Range: The Trego Analysis Area provides range for one entire grazing allotment and a portion of 

another. The maximum permitted number of cow/calf pairs within the analysis area is 81. The South 

End Range EA (USDA Forest Service, 1996a), which follows Forest Plan direction, provides 

direction for the management of this allotment. Projects to restrict cattle concentrations in riparian 

habitat have been accomplished or have been planned to accomplish in the next few years. 

Range management and identified resource enhancement work would facilitate better distribution of 

cattle grazing throughout the analysis area. Completion of range improvement work can create shortterm disturbances to riparian associated species, but would improve habitat for the toad over the 

long term. In localized areas, excessive cattle use may limit riparian forage. Current range 

management activities include the movement of cattle to insure proper forage utilization and 

resource protection and the maintenance and repair of range improvement structures. Ongoing and 

reasonably foreseeable cattle grazing and range management within the Trego Analysis Area would 

cumulatively contribute localized and minor effects to fragmentation or connectivity on the landscape 

and habitat parameters required by the toad. 

As the allotment does not include private or State land leases, cattle are generally herded away from 

these lands, especially if resource conflicts arise. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

Forest Plan: 

• All alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for sensitive species (USDA Forest Service, 

1987a, Vol. 1, II-1 #6). 

• All alternatives are consistent with Forest Plan riparian standards and guidelines (USDA 

Forest Service, 1987a, Vol. 1 II-28 thru 33) as amended by INFS. 

• All Alternatives meet Forest Plan standards for snags and down wood (USDA Forest 

Service, 1987a, Vol. II-1 #8; II-22 & 23 and Appendix 16). 
Chapter 3 

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3-152 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Statement of Findings 

Alternatives B, C, and D are likely to impact individuals and/or their habitat, but would not contribute 

to a trend toward federal listing or loss of species viability for the Western toad. This determination is 

based on: 

1. All alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for the western toad under the sensitive species 

classification. All alternatives would meet Forest Plan standards for snag retainment, thus 

providing for future down woody habitat. All alternatives would also follow INFS direction. 

2. The assessment of habitat parameters for the western toad at the Trego Analysis Area level 

determined that all action alternatives would maintain suitable habitat within the analysis area. 

Proposed activities would not alter existing potential western toad habitat within the riparian 

areas, pond, wetlands, and stream sides. During the non-breeding period, western toads may 

inhabit upland areas. Proposed harvest activities within the upland habitat may harm 

individuals in the area. Prescribed fire and resource habitat enhancement projects may also 

harm some individual western toads (as discussed earlier); however, the small number of 

individuals potentially affected within a small portion of their range is not likely to cause a trend 

toward federal listing or loss of population viability. 

3. Suitable habitat for the western toad is found Forest-wide as documented in Johnson (1999a) 

and USDA Forest Service (2003b). 

7. WOLVERINE (Gulo gulo) 

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Wolverine population ecology, biology, habitat description and relationships identified by research 

are described in Banci (1994) and Butts (1992). That information is incorporated by reference. 

Wolverine occurrence data comes from recent District wildlife observation records and Forest 

historical data (NRIS FAUNA) and other agencies (Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks). 

Wolverine habitat was analyzed using the Draft Hierarchical Habitat Guidelines for the wolverine 

(Ruediger, 1994). Other management strategy guidelines used are discussed in the Region 1 Interim 

Direction for the Management of TES Species (1992). On a more local level, the Draft Wolverine and 

Fisher Hierarchical Approach to Conservation on the Kootenai National Forest (Johnson, 2004) were 

also used. 

Applying the Draft Hierarchical Habitat Guidelines (USDA Foret Service, 1993), the Kootenai 

National Forest was designated as a Primary Wolverine Conservation Area. This designation was 

based on sightings and the inherent quality of wolverine habitat that occurs on portions of the 

Kootenai National Forest. A team of biologists from the Kootenai further defined wolverine habitat on 

a Forest-wide basis using vegetation classification from satelite imagery, (Heinz, 1996) (Johnson, 

2004), wolverine sightings, availability of suitable cover types, and the proximity to habitat where 

wolverine have been observed. The Trego Analysis Area was assigned a secondary wolverine 

conservation area providing minimal quality wolverine habitat (Johnson 2004). All habitat within the 

Trego Analysis Area was identified as travel habitat. There are High Quality Wolverine Subdrainages identified on the Kootenai National Forest as well as the Fortine District, including those 

analysis areas located within the Whitefish/Galton Mountain Range. Because of their ability to 

disperse long distances, it is important that high-quality habitat be connected with suitable travel 

habitat. 

Travel habitat will be addressed through the analysis of open road densities and the amount and 

distribution of cover. The analysis boundary for direct, indirect and cumulative impacts to individuals 

and their habitat is the Trego Analysis Area. The boundary for determining trend or viability is the 

Kootenai National Forest. The results of this analysis will provide a baseline condition for the next 10 

year period when the Trego Analysis Area may be reexamined. 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-153 

Affected Environment 

On a Forest-wide level, 563,045 acres of wolverine habitat have been identified using a Forest 

habitat model (Johnson, 1999a). Of this habitat, there is about 12,000 acres of modeled wolverine 

denning habitat on the Forest (Johnson, 1999a). Wolverine presence has been confirmed in seven of 

the eight planning units on the Kootenai (Johnson, 1999a). 

There are no documented sightings of wolverine within the Trego Analysis Area and wolverine are 

expected to use the area mainly as a travel corridor. The analysis area does not support cirque 

basins and talus. Harvest records (Thier, 1998) from MDFWP shows that wolverine have been 

trapped from the Galton/Whitefish Range which lies northeast of the analysis area. Highway 93 and 

associated land development on private land in the lower elevations may limit wolverine movement 

from the Galton/Whitefish Range southwest into the Trego Analysis Area. 

Thirty-three percent of the Trego Analysis Area lies within private land. The majority of the private 

land is in the lower elevations along Fortine Creek and along the lower portions of the major 

tributaries flowing into Fortine Creek. These lower elevations within both private and especially 

Forest Service land support winter habitat for white-tailed deer and other big game. The amount and 

distribution of hiding cover is good, with 81% of the analysis area providing cover. There are 13 

natural/artificial openings within the analysis area that are greater than 40 acres in size. Wolverine 

are expected to avoid these larger openings. Many of these openings have young conifers 

established and should provide hiding cover within the next 15 years. Connectivity of cover patches 

is generally good. 

The open road density (ORD) on public land within the entire Trego Analysis Area is generally high, 

with an overall density of 2.85 miles/square mile. The open road density within MA 15 is 2.64 

miles/square mile and meets Forest Plan standards.The Forest Plan states that most roads in MA 

11 should be closed in the winter. The majority of the Forest Service roads open in the winter access 

private homes. Traffic levels on most roads are generally low during the summer. During hunting 

season, the majority of the Forest Service roads within the analysis area are closed to motorized 

vehicles to provide a Walk-In-Hunting Area. This should help decrease the mortality risk to wolverine 

traveling through the area during this time frame. In consideration of the open road density and the 

amount and distribution of cover, and the low use levels expected by the wolverine, secure wolverine 

travel habitat is provided throughout the Trego Analysis Area. 

Environmental Consequences 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

The ability of animals to move through the landscape would not change in the short-term because no 

removal of forested cover would result from Alternative A. A number of young regenerated timber 

stands will develop hiding cover values over time which would increase the hiding cover percentage. 

Road closures proposed in the action alternatives would not be implemented in this alternative. The 

closures could result in a higher level of habitat security for animals moving through the area. Stand 

treatment/burning that would increase plant vigor and composition would not take place, and in turn 

may increase the risk for stand replacement fires. The No-Action Alternative would not measurably 

change the existing habitat conditions for the wolverine as described in Chapter 3 during the next ten 

years. Alternative A would have no effect on the wolverine or its habitat. 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

All action alternatives would improve the vigor and availability of grasses, forbs, and shrubs which 

provide forage for species on which the wolverine may feed. Existing riparian vegetation and riparian 

travel corridors would be maintained by following INFISH direction. During logging operations, there 

may be short-term disturbance to wolverines traveling through the analysis area. 
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3-154 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

All action alternatives decommission, restrict, or put into storage the same miles of road within the 

analysis area. No new road construction is proposed under any of the action alternatives. All action 

alternatives propose two new trail systems in the analysis area. Because of the low past and 

expected transient use by wolverine of the analysis area, this increased recreational use is not 

expected to affect movement through or security of the area. A number of Design Criteria listed in 

Table 2-10, would be implemented which would maintain or improve habitat for the wolverine. 

Identified tasks include: provide wildlife habitat security and protect riparian habitat. All alternatives 

would retain the Walk-In-Hunting Area and restrict proposed activities to timeframes outside of this 

period. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect 

Movement Corridors: Movement corridors within MA 11 winter range are affected by all 

prescriptions that are part of this project except for Ecosystem Burning and Uneven-aged 

Management. Only two of these prescriptions were placed within the winter range. The Intermediate 

Harvest and Fuels Treatment with Manipulation prescriptions do not result in conditions that meet the 

hiding cover definition of hiding 90% of an animal at 200 feet. Alternatives B and D have 

Intermediate and Fuels Treatment with Manipulation prescriptions located in a linear fashion 

adjacent to private land in the northern portion of the analysis area within MA 11 (See Maps 2-2 and 

2-4). Alternative C was designed to maintain the movement corridors in MA 11 by leaving 

unharvested areas for movement, resulting in fewer acres of Intermediate and Fuels Treatment with 

Manipulation prescriptions. 

Outside of the winter range area in MA 15, the overall ability of big game to move through the 

landscape would be marginally affected by the action alternatives. There are some large openings 

not providing hiding cover that would increase in size with adjacent proposed regeneration harvest in 

all alternatives. Alternative D does this in more areas than the other action alternatives. It is 

expected that these areas would continue to grow trees and would provide hiding cover within the 

next 10-20 years. Alternative C would maintain the existing movement corridors the best of any 

action alternative. Overall, ridgeline and riparian corridors remain largely intact and although 

individual animals may have to adjust their localized movement patterns, no movement barriers 

would result. 

The number of acres of Ecosystem Burning planned in Alternatives B and D is much higher than in 

Alternative C. As a result, more forage would be created in Alternatives B and D than in 

Alternative C.

Road Analysis: All action alternatives restrict miles of open road to motorized travel including over 

the snow vehicles. The open road density is similar in all alternatives and results in more secure 

travel habitat. However, Alternative C results in more secure winter travel habitat by restricting 

snowmobiles more in winter range habitat and on new trails than Alternatives B and D. 

The proposed activities for all action alternatives are not expected to significantly affect wolverine 

that may travel through the Trego Analysis Area. Taking into account that there are no documented 

sightings of wolverine in the analysis area, the open road density, and the amount and distribution of 

cover within the area, mortality risk to the wolverine would remain low to moderate for all 

alternatives. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Past timber harvest and road construction projects, and natural events have created much of the 

existing habitat conditions found within the analysis area. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the sensitive wildlife species project file, considers and 

describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities 

listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on addressed 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-155 

species or their habitat are not included in this section. Those activities that cumulatively affect the 

species or habitat will be discussed below. These include vegetation management, and private 

land development.

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities have 

created the existing habitat conditions (vegetation and roads) for wolverine within Trego Analysis 

Area. One current timber sale project (Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate harvest to 

thin overstocked stands. Fuel reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling with 

associated pile burning. Two current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim 

Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark 

beetle infestation. These two sales treat 320 acres in which hiding cover will be retained. Post 

harvest activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect effects from these proposed 

activities are discussed in associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to snag dependent 

species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary roads would be closed 

to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Salvage sales and associated activities can alter vegetation, reduce habitat security, and create 

localized disturbances. It is expected that ongoing and reasonably foreseeable salvage harvest and 

associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute localized and 

minor effects to habitat security, availability of hiding cover, fragmentation or connectivity on the 

landscape, or other habitat parameters required by the wolverine. 

Currrent and reasonably foreseeable vegetation management activities within the Trego Analysis 

Area would cumulatively contribute minor localized effects to the wolverine and its habitat. 

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Development of private 

land, including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and 

installation of improvements, can create a variety of changes to the landscape. Depending on the 

magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of private land on the landscape, 

these activities can have varied effects, including habitat loss, increased fragmentation, decreased 

habitat security, and localized disturbance on wolverine. 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres for 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. Associated with this could be approximately 6 miles of road construction. 

Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these activities could take 

place in a spatially dispersed manner across the analysis area. Given the low level of use the Trego 

Analysis Area receives from the wolverine and the relatively small amount of acres treated, these 

activities would contribute minor effects to habitat security, availability of hiding cover, fragmentation 

or connectivity on the landscape, or habitat parameters required by wolverine over the next 10 years. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Road construction is expected as part of the residential growth within 

private land. Both state and private landowners generally restrict public use on their roads. Potential 

effects to wolverine and their habitat from ongoing timber harvest and road construction activities on 

private land would be minor. 
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3-156 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

Forest Plan: 

• All Alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for sensitive species (USDA Forest Service, 

1987a, Vol. 1, II-1 #6). All alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for the wolverine under the 

sensitive species classification. All alternatives follow the goals and strategies for evaluating 

potential habitat and effects to wolverine that are outlined in the Draft Hierarchical Habitat 

Guidelines (Ruediger, 1994). 

Alternatives B, C, and D are likely to impact individuals and/or their habitat, but would not contribute 

to a trend toward federal listing or loss of species viability for the wolverine because: 

1. All alternatives meet Forest Plan direction for the wolverine under the sensitive species 

classification. All alternatives follow the goals and strategies for evaluating potential habitat 

and effects to wolverine that are outlined in the Draft Hierarchical Habitat Guidelines 

(Ruediger, 1994). 

2. The assessment of habitat parameters for wolverine at the Trego Analysis Area level 

determined that all action alternatives would maintain suitable travel habitat within the 

analysis area. These alternatives maintain an adequate distribution of travel cover, would 

not create barriers to wolverine movement, and would not increase mortality risk to the 

wolverine. The only expected effect on individual animals is temporary displacement. 

3. Suitable habitat for the wolverine is found forest-wide as documented in Johnson (1999a) 

and USDA Forest Service, 2003b. 

D. Threatened, Endangered, and Proposed Species 

Regulatory Framework 

The Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 declares that all Federal agencies ... “ utilize their 

authorities in furtherance of the purposes of this Act by carrying out programs for the conservation of 

endangered species and threatened species listed pursuant to section 4 of this Act.” The ESA 

(Section 7) requires federal agencies to ensure that any agency action (any action authorized, 

funded, or carried out by the agency) are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any 

threatened, endangered, or proposed species. Agencies are further required to develop and carry 

out conservation programs for these species. 

The National Forest Management Act (NFMA) (36 CFR 219.19) directs the Forest Service to 

manage habitat to maintain viable populations of existing native and desired non-native vertebrate 

species. A viable population is defined as one that has the estimated numbers and distribution of 

reproductive individuals to insure its continued existence is well distributed in the planning area, the 

Kootenai National Forest. 

Species List 

A current species list for the Kootenai National Forest (KNF) was obtained from the U.S. Fish and 

Wildlife Service (here after FWS) web site (http://montanafieldoffice.fws.gov) on 1/17/2006. The FWS 

concurred with potential listed species distribution maps and resulting consultation areas for the KNF 

in 2001 (USDI U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2001). Species status in the influence area of the 

proposed project is shown in Table 3-43. 

 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-157 

Table 3-43. Threatened, Endangered, and Proposed Wildlife Species: Analysis Area Status 

SPECIES ESA STATUS STATUS IN 

ANALYSIS AREA* 

COMMENTS (where described in 

the document) 

Grizzly 

Bear Threatened K See Threatened and Endangered Species Section below 

Bald Eagle Threatened K See Threatened and Endangered 

Species Section below 

Gray Wolf Endangered K See Threatened and Endangered 

Species Section below 

Canada 

Lynx Threatened K See Threatened and Endangered Species Section below 

*Status Key: 

K = This species is known to occur or has occurred within the analysis area. 

S = Suitable habitat exists and species is suspected to occur within analysis area. 

NS = No Suitable habitat, species is not suspected to occur within the analysis area. No further analysis 

required. 

1. Grizzly Bear (Ursus arctus horribilus) 

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Grizzly bear population ecology, biology, habitat description and relationships identified by research 

are described in USDI U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (1993). That information is incorporated by 

reference. Grizzly bear occurrence data comes from recent District wildlife observation records, 

Forest historical data (NRIS FAUNA), and other agencies (USFWS, MFWP). The analysis boundary 

for project impacts to individuals and their habitat is the Tobacco Polygon which is one of seven 

grizzly bear outside the recovery zone reoccurring use polygons (here after BORZ polygon) located 

on the Kootenai National Forest. The boundary for cumulative effects and making the effects 

determination is this same BORZ polygon. 

Proposed alternatives will be evaluated to determine how they meet the three factors identified in 

relation to terms and conditions of the FWS Biological Opinion for the Kootenai, Idaho Panhandle, 

and Lolo Land and Resource Management Plans amended for motorized access management within 

the Selkirk Cabinet Yaak Grizzly Bear Recovery Zone (here after referred to as the Access 

Amendment). 

Affected Environment 

Outside Recovery Zone: Grizzly bear reoccurring use areas outside the recovery zones (BORZ 

polygons) have been identified (Wittinger et.al. 2002). The FWS has identified three factors falling 

under Forest Service jurisdiction that contribute to “taking” (ESA Section 9) of grizzly bears that apply 

in these areas. They are: 1) access management; 2) livestock presence; and 3) food attractants 

(human and livestock food storage and garbage). The proposed Trego EA is located within the 

Tobacco BORZ polygon (Figure 1 in Johnson 2003b). Within the last ten years, there have been 6 

documented observations of grizzly bears within the Trego Analysis Area (sighting information is 

located in the permanent District files). District records indicate that two grizzly bear mortalities have 

occurred within this timeframe in the Trego Analysis Area on private land. There are no known den 

sites within the analysis area. Potential denning habitat within the analysis area is unlikely due to low 

elevations (generally <5500') and gentle slopes. 

The US Fish and Wildlife Service is currently collecting bear hair in an effort to identify black bear 

and grizzly bear from DNA analysis. Bear hair is being collected throughout the south end of the 

District, which includes areas within the Tobacco BORZ Polygon. 

1. Access Management: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 2004 (Access Amendment), using 

baseline information from Johnson (2003), established access management standards for areas 

outside the recovery zone, with reoccurring grizzly bear use. The access management baseline 
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3-158 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

conditions for the Tobacco BORZ polygon are 2.0 miles/square mile of linear open road density 

(Linear ORD) and 3.0 miles/square mile of linear total road density (Linear TRD). (U.S. FWS Access 

Amenement). 

The baseline open and total road density values for National Forest land within the Tobacco Polygon 

are displayed in the following table. 

Table 3-44. Road Miles and Densities within the Tobacco Polygon 

Analysis Area Area in Square 

Miles 

Total Road 

Miles 

Open Road 

Miles 

Total Road Density 

(mi/mi2) 

Open Road 

Density 

(mi/mi2) 

Tobacco 502.52 1514.43 1002.50 3.0 2.0 

Road surveys conducted within the Trego Analysis Area in 2004 identified a number of unclassified 

roads that were not correctly identified on the Tobacco Polygon road layer. The 2004 road surveys 

identified an additional 6.02 miles of road, of which 2.88 mile could be accessed with a pickup. Total 

and open road densities within the Tobacco Polygon are tracked Forest-wide through the “Grizzly 

Bears Outside Recovery Zone Areas ORD/TRD Tracking” spreadsheet (located in the grizzly bear 

project file). The additional road miles identified in the Trego Analysis Area, in combination with other 

roads constructed, decommissioned, and/or opened within the Tobacco Polygon as the result of 

other ongoing projects, will not change the existing baseline total and open road density. 

2. Livestock presence: Livestock are present in the Tobacco BORZ polygon. As discussed in the 

“Incidental Take Analysis” document, there are 44 grazing allotments on the Kootenai National 

Forest, however, only 22 are presently active. It must be noted that even though the areas under 

permit are quite large, actual use area within each allotment is much smaller. This is because most 

of the available forage area is transitory range created through timber harvest. The Kootenai Forest 

Plan projected range use at 12,600 animal unit months (AUMs). The last Forest Plan Monitoring 

Report (USDA Forest Service, 2003a) shows authorized use at 7,017 AUMs. In 2002 use dropped to 

5,127 AUMs. Use level trend is down (40% based on 2001 use or 56% based on 2002) since 

approval of the Forest Plan (1988 use was 11,600 AUMs). The proposed action is located within the 

Trego Analysis Area. The Trego Analysis Area contains portions of two grazing allotments, the Trego 

Allotment and the Swamp/Fortine Allotment. The Trego Allotment allows 200 AUMs and the 

Swamp/Fortine Allotment allows 67 AUMs within the Trego Analysis Area. 

A primary consideration of depredation risk is associated with the class of livestock being grazed and 

the overlap with grizzly bear use patterns. The livestock class for all but one allotment on the KNF is 

cow/calf. There is one horse allotment. There have been no livestock depredation incidents by 

grizzly bear.There have been no management removals of grizzly bear due to conflicts with livestock 

grazing (under permit) on the Kootenai NF. The management removal identified in the “Food 

Attractant” section of this report did involve livestock (goats) on private land (Johnson, 2003b). 

There are many Forest Plan management standards and guidelines that deal with range 

management and potential conflicts with grizzly bear. The management direction is designed to favor 

the bear in all cases. 

Part Three of the Grazing Permit under the Special Terms and Conditions section states: “The 

authorized officer may order an immediate temporary suspension of all human activities permitted by 

this authorization, and if needed, revoke or terminate the grazing authorization when, in his/her 

judgment, such action is necessary in order to prevent confrontation or conflict between grazing and 

threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant/animal species. Part 3 also states: “ Intentional or 

negligent acts by the holder, his/her agents, employees, contractors, and subcontractors that result 

in injury or death of a threatened, endangered, or sensitive plant/animal species will be cause for the 

suspension, revocation or termination of this authorization in whole or in part.” Furthermore, the 

permit holder is required (when an animal dies) to “...notify the Forest officer within 24 hours of 

discovery. ...carcass must be moved to a point at least 100 yards from living water... and be burned 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-159 

within 24 hours after discovery.” 

There are no recent records (last twenty years) of livestock depredation by grizzly bear within the 

Trego Analysis Area. 

3. Food Attractants: Food attractants are present in the Tobacco BORZ polygon. As discussed in 

the “Incidental Take Analysis” document, the Kootenai National Forest has a voluntary food storage 

guideline in place that covers the entire forest. The guideline follows the food storage order for the 

Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem. Outfitter and guide operations, under a special use permit 

(average 40/year) on the Kootenai, are required to follow the guidelines as a condition of their permit 

(Johnson 2003). The “Pack it In – Pack it Out” policy is in place on the Kootenai. Bear resistant 

garbage containers are in place at most campgrounds that have had any history of bear (to date only 

black bear) problems. The Forest Plan (MA 23) states: “Any activity in the MA will be required to 

leave no trash or other grizzly attractant.” The BO, under Conservation Recommendations, identified 

that the Forest should continue to develop and implement a Food Storage Order by December 31, 

2005. The Forest is currently operating under a voluntary food storage guideline. Over the last 15 

years the Kootenai National Forest has completed many sanitation projects to reduce mortality risk 

to bears (Johnson 2003b). There have been no documented grizly bear mortalities on the Kootenai 

National Forest lands due to food attractants. 

On National Forest land within the Trego Analysis Area, attractants are limited (Outfitter and Guide 

activities, dispersed recreational sites, and game harvest). There are no records of grizzly/human 

conflicts arising from these activities. 

Environmental Consequences 

Direct, indirect, and cumulative effects were considered for all current and reasonably foreseeable 

activities listed and described in Chapter I and other resource opportunities identified in Chapter 2. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet located in the Wildlife Project File evaluated the effects of these 

activities on the grizzly bear. Those activities that had a measurable effect on the grizzly bear or their 

habitat were included in this section. 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

All alternatives would meet the terms and conditions provided by the FWS Biological Opinion for the 

Access Amendment. Table 3-45 below summarizes the effects of proposed alternatives on the three 

incidental take parameters. Incidental take parameters are discussed in more detail under 

alternatives. 

Table 3-45. Changes to Incidental Take Parameters by Alternative for the Tobacco BORZ Polygon 

Incidental 

Take 

Parameter 

Alt. A 

(No 

Action) 

(Existing 

Condition) 

Alt. B Alt. C Alt. D 

Linear ORD 2 mi./sq.mi. 2 mi./sq.mi. 2mi./sq.mi. 2 mi./sq.mi. 

Linear TRD 3 mi./sq.mi. 3 mi./sq.mi. 3mi./sq.mi. 3 mi./sq.mi. 

Livestock No change No change No change No change 

Food Attractants No change No change No change No change 

All action alternatives would create a number of forested openings that do not provide hiding cover 

and overall decrease the amount of hiding cover within the analysis area. All alternatives would 

maintain sufficient cover (> 68% hiding cover) to facilitate grizzly bear movement within the analysis 

area. Some of the larger proposed treatment units may be avoided by the bear because of the loss 

of hiding cover. Created forage openings (regeneration harvest) are not expected to provide key 

seasonal components for the grizzly bear. 
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3-160 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

The No Action Alternative would not measurably change the existing habitat conditions for the bear, 

as described above, during the next ten years. Not implementing proposed road closures would 

maintain existing habitat security and meet the terms and conditions established by FWS for access 

management, food attractants, and livestock presence. No significant changes in range management 

or availability of food attractants are expected to occur over the next 10 years. Currently, 80% of the 

analysis area provides hiding cover. Hiding cover would increase as young conifers continue to grow 

within past regenerated timber stands. By not implementing vegetation treatments and burning, plant 

vigor and composition would be maintained, and there would be an increase in the risk for future 

stand replacement fires. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect 

1. Access Management: The following terms and conditions apply to access management from the 

Biological Opinion of the Access Amendment. 

a) The Forests shall ensure no increases in linear open road (i.e., non-gated roads open to public 

use) densities on National Forest System Lands in any individual area of grizzly bear occupancy, 

above the baseline conditions identified in Table 3-45 above. However, roads created, opened or 

reconstructed to facilitate land management activities may be opened to the public, immediately 

following completion of all harvest activities requiring use of the road, to allow personal firewood 

gathering for 30 consecutive days during either the month of July or August. 

Action alternatives would not increase the open road density within the Tobacco Polygon. 

Proposed activities would utilize existing open roads. No temporary roads would be constructed. Of 

the 6.02 miles of additional road identified in the 2004 road survey, 0.25 mile of road would be added 

to the total open road miles, 2.84 miles would be closed yearlong, and the remaining roads would 

either be decomissioned or put into storage. 

Proposed activities would decommission 2.14 miles of open road. As identified above, 0.25 mile of 

road would be added to the total open road miles. Therefore proposed activities would decrease the 

miles of open road within the analysis area and the Tobacco Polygon by 1.89 mile (2.14 -.25) under

Alternatives B and C. Alternative D proposes to allow motorized vehicles (ATV/motorcycle) on a 

road that would be converted to a trail. This mortorized trail would add 2.5 miles of open road to the 

Tobacco Polygon. As Alternative D also proposes to decommission 1.89 mile of road, the net 

increase in total open road would be be .61 mile. The proposed changes in open road miles for all 

action alternatives would not create changes in the baseline conditions for the Tobacco Polygon. 

b) The Forests shall ensure no permanent increases in linear total road densities, above the baseline 

conditions identified in Table 3-45 above. Temporary increases in linear total road densities are 

acceptable under the following conditions: 

1. Newly constructed roads will be effectively gated and will be restricted with a CFR closure 

clarifying they are not open for public use. 

2. Roads restricted to meet the no net increase in linear total road densities shall: 1) be 

restricted immediately upon completion of activities requiring use of the road; 2) be 

effectively restricted with an earthen berm, guardrail or other effective measure; and 3) put in 

a condition such that a need for motorized access for maintenance is not anticipated for at 

least 10 years. 

3. Upon completion of a land management project, linear total road densities will return to the 

baseline levels identified in Table 3-45. 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-161 

Action alternatives would not increase the total road density within the Tobacco Polygon. 

Action alternatives would not construct new roads. Roads that have yearlong road restrictions would 

remained closed to the public during activity implementation and during the time period bears are 

active (4/1 to 11/30). Of the 6.02 miles of additional road found in the 2004 road survey, proposed 

action alternatives would manage 0.25 mile as open road and 2.84 miles as roads restricted 

yearlong with an earthen barrier. The remainer of the 6.02 miles of road would either be 

decommissioned or put into storage. 

Action alternatives would decommission 9.7 miles of road, including some roads identified in the 

2004 road survey. In consideration of the management objectives for the additional roads found in 

the 2004 survey (as discussed above), proposed alternatives would decrease the miles of total road 

within the Tobacco Polygon by 6.61 miles (9.7- 2.84-0.25) under Alternatives B and C. Alternative 

D proposes to allow motorized vehicles (ATV/motorcycle) on a road that would be converted to a 

trail. This mortorized trail would add 2.5 miles of road to the Tobacco Polygon. As Alternative D also 

includes the 6.61 mile decrease in total road density of Alternatives B and C, the net decrease in 

total road for Alternative D would be be 4.11 miles. The proposed decreases in road miles for all 

action alternatives would not change baseline conditions for the Tobacco Polygon. 

Total and open road miles within the Tobacco Polygon are tracked by the Forest spreadsheet. 

Consequently all administrative units that propose activities within the Tobacco Polygon would know 

the existing road miles and what road miles are available to complete their activity and still meet the 

terms and conditions of the Access Amendment. Miles of decomissioned roads would be entered 

into the Forest spreadsheet after the work is completed. Miles of open road would be added upon 

signing the decision documents for each project within the poloygon. 

3. Livestock: As described in the Range Section, wildlife predation on cattle has not been a problem 

within the Trego Analysis Area. There are no records of grizzly bear killing domestic livestock within 

the analysis area. Proposed activities may cause localized disruptions in grazing patterns. However 

there are no anticipated changes in range management as the result of proposed activities. 

Alternative D would provide for a significant increase in the amount of transitory range. The 

increased amount of transitory range could provide the opportunity to increase the number of cattle 

on the allotment under a temporary basis. This increase is not expected to increase predation risk on 

cattle. 

Cattle are infrequently injured through logging operations. If injured cattle are left on site, they would 

become wildlife attractants. However, the range permit requires the permittee to remove or dispose 

of dead animals within 24 hours of discovery. 

In consideration of the proposed activities within the Trego Analysis Area, there are no activities that 

would measurably increase the risk of grizzly bear/livestock conflicts. Cumulatively, proposed 

activities would not change the existing risk of grizzly bear depredation on livestock within the 

Tobacco Polygon. 

2. Food Attractants: As identified previously, the Kootenai NF has voluntary food storage guidelines 

in place that covers the entire forest. In addition, special use permits and easements address proper 

food handling and storage where applicable. 

In consideration of proposed activities within the Trego Analysis Area, there are no activities that 

would create food attractants for the grizzly bear. Special use permittees and Outfitter and Guides 

that handle food within the analysis area operate under appropriate food storage guidelines. 

Therefore human/bear conflicts associated with food handling or storage is not anticipated within the 

analysis area. Timber sale contracts have sanitation specifications that would prevent the purchaser 

from discarding or storing food/garbage that can become a wildlife attractant. Proposed activities and 

vegetation management are not expected to create attractants for the grizzly bear. 

Cumulatively, proposed activities would not change the existing food attractant conditions within the 
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3-162 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Tobacco Polygon. 

 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

Past timber harvest and road construction activities and natural events have created much of the 

existing habitat conditions found within the Trego Analysis Area. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Wildlife Project File, considers and describes 

proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in 

Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on the grizzly bear or 

their habitat are not included in this section but are discussed in the wildlife cumulative effects 

worksheet. Those activities that cumulatively affect the grizzly bear will be discussed below. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1) and associated activities have 

created the existing habitat conditions (vegetation and roads) for the grizzly bear within Trego 

Analysis Area. One current timber sale project (Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate 

harvest to thin overstocked stands. Fuel reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling 

with associated pile burning. Two current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and 

Jim Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark 

beetle infestation. In addition, one foreseeable timber harvest project (White Creek Douglas-fir 

Beetle Sale) would also be implemented in response to Douglas-fir beetle infestation. Post harvest 

activities would include lop and scattering of slash. No new roads would be constructed. 

Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan direction. There would be small decreases in the 

availability of hiding cover. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to grizzly 

bear. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary roads would be closed to 

public traffic. 

It is expected that there would be some Blowdown Salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to 

exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and activities would follow the Forest-wide Blowdown 

Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Current and reasonably foreseeable salvage harvest and associated activities within the Trego 

Analysis Area would cumulatively not increase open and total base road density as identified in 

Table 3-45 above. In addition, these activities would have minimal effect on range management and 

therefore are not expected to increase the risk of grizzly/livestock conflicts. Salvage activities, 

including operations, are not expected to create food attractants. 

Range Management: The Trego Analysis Area provides range for two grazing allotments: Trego 

and Swamp/Fortine. The analysis area encompasses the entire Trego Allotment and only about 13% 

of the Swamp/Fortine Allotment. From June 5 to September 30, 267 AUMs (76 cows/calves) graze 

within the analysis area. The South End Range EA, which follows Forest Plan direction, provides 

direction for the management of this allotment. Several projects to restrict cattle concentrations in 

riparian habitat were identified in the South End Range EA and are planned to be completed. 

The number of cattle that graze within the Trego Analysis Area is expected to remain somewhat 

constant. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable range management activities within the Trego 

Analysis Area would not cumulatively increase the risk of grizzly bear/livestock conflicts. 

Private land development: To date, there have been 1038 acres of permanent land clearing; 849 

acres of regeneration harvest; 2498 acres of intermediate harvest; and 62 miles of roads. This 

activity in association with natural events has created much of the existing landscape on nonnational forest lands. Road densities are generally high and habitat security for the grizzly bear is 

low. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. However there is potential 

that the State would conduct salvage operations on approximately 833 acres. Ongoing timber 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-163 

harvest on private land includes both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Private 

and State land represent approximately 33% of the Trego Analysis Area. In review of aerial photos 

and the average rate of past timber harvest, it is expected that 279 acres of regeneration harvest 

would occur on private land over the next 10 years. Over the next 10 years, 24 new residential sites 

are expected to be built within the analysis area. Associated with these new residential sites would 

be approximately 6 miles of new road construction. There is also potential for land development. The 

county planning department is requiring new subdivisions to incorporate food/garbage handling and 

storage requirements to keep food away from wildlife and not create attractants. 

In consideration of the amount of non-national forest lands within the analysis area (approximately 

thirty percent), future activities on these lands have potential to decrease habitat security (increase 

the miles of open and total roads); increase the risk of grizzly bear/livestock conflicts; and increase 

the availability of food attractants. Bears acclimated to attractants or livestock could continue to 

display this behavior in surrounding areas. 

Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable activities on non-national forest land could contribute towards a 

minor increase in the risk of grizzly bear/human conflicts within the Trego Analysis Area on National 

Forest land. The FWS recognized these potential risks on private land. However, the terms and 

conditions only apply to National Forest land. 

Hunting: Ongoing hunting activities are regulated by MFWP. The Forest Service influences hunter 

access through road management. The Forest Service also identifies areas where physically 

challenged hunters are allowed to drive closed roads. 

Hunting activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute to minor short-term 

reductions (during the general hunting season) in habitat security. Effects from hunting vary with 

activity levels and can cause from short-term disturbance to short-term displacement. Mortality risk to 

the grizzly bear is increased through hunting, however the risk is considered low. The level of 

hunting within the analysis area is not expected to significantly change over the next ten years. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

All alternatives are in compliance with the Endangered Species Act. This statement is based on: 

proposed activities meet all terms and conditions established by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under 

the 2004 Access Amendment. 

Statement of Findings 

Alternatives B, C, and D may effect, but is not likely to adversely affect the grizzly bear. This 

determination is based on the project meeting all terms and conditions established by the FWS 

under the Access Amendment. There are no cumulative effects that would change these findings. 

2. BALD EAGLE (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Eagle population ecology, biology, habitat description and relationships identified by research are 

described in USDI U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USDI 1995), USDI 1999b, Montana Bald Eagle 

Working Group (MBEWG) 1991, and MBEWG 1994. That information is incorporated by reference. 

Eagle occurrence data comes from recent District wildlife observation records, Forest historical data 

(NRIS FAUNA), and other agencies (USFWS, MFWP). 

Habitat management guidelines from the Montana Bald Eagle Management Plan (MBEMP) and 

1994, 1991) serve as the measure for bald eagle habitat management on the Kootenai National 

Forest. The effect of any proposed activity on potential eagle habitat and any known eagle nests 

located within the bald eagle consultation area agreed to by the USFWS (USDI 2001) will be 

discussed in relation to the MBEMP. 
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3-164 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

The analysis boundary for project impacts to individuals and their habitat as well as cumulative 

effects is all lands within the Trego Analysis Area that fall within the consultation boundaries agreed 

to by the FWS (USDI 2001). 

Affected Environment 

Bald eagles occur as both seasonal migrants and year-round residents within the boundaries of the 

Kootenai National Forest. Nesting has increased significantly over the last two decades within the 

boundaries of the Kootenai National Forest. Only one active nest was known to occur in 1978, 

whereas 35 nests (18 on NFS and 17 on private land) were known and monitored in 2004. Nest 

success for active nests over the last twenty year period is about 83%, with an average of 1.3 

fledglings per active nest (KNF Bald Eagle Monitoring Records). 

Wintering bald eagle numbers have fluctuated over the years depending on food sources (fish from 

open waters and dead animals along roads and railroad tracks) and winter conditions (open verses 

frozen water for foraging habitat). Mid-winter bald eagle counts have averaged 96 bald eagles over 

the past 20 years (KNF Bald Eagle Monitoring Records). 

Based on Wilson (USDI 2001), there are no suitable bald eagle habitat acres in the Trego Analysis 

Area. Forest-wide potential bald eagle habitat covers about 564,558 acres (242,965 NFS; 275,470 

PVT; and 46,123 water) (based on USDI 2001). 

MBEMP guidelines identify four general habitat categories and management concerns for bald 

eagles. They are: nesting habitat, foraging habitat (including perch sites), winter habitat (including 

roost sites), and mortality risks. 

Nesting habitat is typically associated with mature forest stands in close proximity (less than 1 

mile) to large bodies of water, including lakes and fourth order streams, which provide an 

adequate prey base. The analysis area does not support suitable nesting habitat. The Trego 

Analysis Area contains only one lake which is too small to support a nesting pair of eagles. The 

nearest known nest site occurs within the Murphy Analysis Area and is located approximately four 

air miles from the Trego Analysis Area. 

Foraging habitat is marginal and limited mainly to big game winter habitat of the Trego Analysis 

Area during the winter and spring. The project area occurs within Forest Plan designated MA11 

(big game winter habitat). Eagles are opportunistic feeders and will feed on carrion (road kills) 

when available. Eagles have been observed occasionally during the winter feeding on winter-kill 

or railroad-kill deer within the analysis area. The analysis area does not support known roost 

sites. 

The MBEMP (1994) identifies bald eagle mortality risks as shooting, accidental trapping, 

poisoning, diseases, and electrocution. On the Kootenai NF bald eagles have also died from 

collisions with motor vehicles and trains. In the Trego Analysis Area, all of these risks are present 

however collisions with trains and vehicles on the roadways are more likely because of the deer 

winter range, County Road 36 and the railroad tracks running through the analysis area. 

Environmental Consequences 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect 

With the absence of suitable nesting habitat, and limited foraging habitat within the analysis area the 

No-Action Alternative A, as well as action Alternatives B, C and D would not impact nesting or 

foraging habitat for the species. Nesting bald eagles generally feed within several miles of their nest 

site, but have been observed to feed as far away as 10 miles. The implementation of any alternative 

would not change the availability of railroad and road-kill deer in the analysis area as a food source. 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-165 

Potential perching and roosting areas would not be affected by any alternative. Reserve trees (see 

snag section) would be maintained in all regeneration harvest units, therefore providing roost and 

perching habitat for the future. 

None of the alternatives would impact bald eagles during the winter. The action alternatives 

prescribe winter logging on three units within the winter range. Because of the limited and sporadic 

foraging that occurs within the winter range it is not expected that these activities would impact bald 

eagles. 

None of the action alternatives or the No-Action Alternative would add to the bald eagle mortality 

risk. All action alternatives decrease the open road densities both in the summer and the winter 

range. This includes some roads closed to snowmobile traffic. These actions may slightly decrease 

the mortality risk for eagles by road kills or accidental trapping. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS OF ALL ALTERNATIVES 

Past timber harvest, road construction projects, along with natural events have created much of the 

existing habitat conditions found within the analysis area. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the threatened and endangered wildlife species 

project file, considers and describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current and 

reasonably foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute 

indiscernible effects on addressed species or their habitat are not included in this section. Those 

activities that cumulatively affect the species or habitat will be discussed below. Activities that may 

affect the winter range habitat or roost trees include vegetation management and private land 

development. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities have 

created the existing habitat conditions (vegetation and roads) for species within the Trego Analysis 

Area. One current timber sale project (Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate harvest to 

thin overstocked stands. Fuel reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling with 

associated pile burning. Two current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim 

Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark 

beetle infestation. Post harvest activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect 

effects from these proposed activities are discussed in associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to snag dependent 

species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary roads would be closed 

to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Salvage sales and associated activities can alter vegetation, reduce habitat security, and create 

localized disturbances. It is expected that ongoing and reasonably foreseeable salvage harvest and 

associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute localized and 

minor effects to snag loss or other habitat parameters required by the bald eagle. 

Currrent and reasonably foreseeable vegetation management activities within the Trego Analysis 

Area would cumulatively contribute minor localized effects to bald eagle and their habitat. 

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Development of private 

land, including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and 
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3-166 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

installation of improvements, can create a variety of changes to the landscape. Depending on the 

magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of private land on the landscape, 

these activities can have varied effects, including loss of winter foraging opportunities and localized 

disturbance. 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing from 24 acres for 12 home sites is 

expected to occur. This would result in approximately 6 miles of road construction and 24 new 

homes constructed. Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these 

activities could take place in a fairly dispersed manner across the analysis area. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Road construction is expected as part of the residential growth within 

private land. Both state and private landowners generally restrict public use on their roads. Potential 

effects to bald eagles and their habitat from ongoing timber harvest and road construction activities 

on private land would be minor. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

• This project complies with Forest Plan direction on T&E species that applies to the bald 

eagle (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, Vol. II-1 #5, II-22). 

• This project is consistent with the Endangered Species Act 

• The project is consistent with the Bald Eagle Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 668-668C 1978). 

Statement of Findings 

The implementation of Alternatives B, C, and D would not affect the bald eagle. This determination 

is based on: 1) Alternatives B, C, and D would not affect nesting habitat; 2) Alternatives B, C, and D 

would not affect foraging habitat for the species; 3) Alternatives B, C, and D would not impact bald 

eagles or their habitat during the winter; and 4) Alternatives B, C, and D would not add to bald eagle 

mortality risk. 

3. GRAY WOLF (Canis lupus)

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Strategies to protect and recover wolf populations in Montana, as well as the ecology, biology and 

habitat descriptions are outlined in the Northern Rocky Mountain Wolf Recovery Plan (USDI, 1987). 

The Northwest Montana (NWMT) Recovery Area is one of three wolf recovery areas identified for the 

Northern Rocky Mountain wolf population (USDI et al. 2004). The Kootenai National Forest is within 

the NWMT Recovery Area. Information for this recovery area is provided by the Rocky Mountain 

Wolf Recovery 2004 Annual Report (USDI et. al. 2005) and is incorporated here by reference. Wolf 

occurrence data comes from recent District wildlife observation records, Forest historical data (NRIS 

FAUNA), and other agencies (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks). 

Measurement indicators for this wolf analysis include the following key habitat components found in 

the Wolf Recovery Plan (USDI, 1987): 

1) Sufficient, year-round prey base (big game or alternate prey): this component can be measured 

by adhering to Forest Plan big game management recommendations. For this analysis area, whitetailed deer management recommendations were applied. They include cover/forage ratios; road 

densities; opening sizes; key habitat features; movement corridors (See the white-tailed deer Section 

under the MIS) 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-167 

2) Suitable and somewhat secluded denning and rendezvous sites: Sensitivity to disturbance at den 

sites and subsequent abandonment varies greatly among individual wolves. One incident of human 

disturbance at the den may cause abandonment for some wolves, while other wolves will tolerate 

some human disturbance (Thiel et al. 1998) and may not abandon dens unless there are repeated or 

severe incidents of disturbance (Claar et al. 1999). MFWP is not recommending any localized 

closures near wolf den or rendezvous sites on public lands outside national parks (Sime, 2002), and 

early surveys in Northwest Montana indicated that public support to recover wolves would dwindle if 

recreational or public lands were restricted to promote recovery (Tucker and Pletscher, 1989). 

MFWP encourages land management agencies to consider the locations of wolf den and 

rendezvous sites and habitat security in their future planning activities in the same context as 

considering the locations of ungulate winter range or bald eagle nests (Sime 2002). Assumptions 

with this method would include maintaining the habitat integrity of the denning and rendezvous sites. 

Recommendations in this analysis are to identify the proposed action, and any past actions that have 

occurred near the den site. Proposed actions may be tolerated if they have have occurred during the 

same time period in the past (example: an open road with similar amounts of traffic as in the past). 

Den and rendezvous sites can also be protected by enacting timing restrictions on proposed 

activities within the denning/rendezvous site areas. These restrictions would limit operating periods 

to the fall or winter seasons when these sites are unoccupied. 

3) Sufficient space with minimal exposure to humans; this component is associated with reducing the 

risk of human-caused mortality to wolves. Human disturbance and accessibility of wolf habitats (i.e. 

road densities) are the principle factors limiting wolf recovery in most areas (Leirfallom 1970, Thiel 

1978, USDI1978,1987 all in Frederick, 1999). These components can be generally measured by 

maintaining open road density standards required by the Forest Plan as well as maintaining any 

security habitat recommended in the big game habitat section. 

The analysis boundary for direct effects to the Murphy Lake Pack and their habitat is the Trego 

Analysis Area. Cumulative and indirect effects will be assessed on this analysis area as well as 

adjacent analysis areas located in this packs home range. 

Affected Environment 

In the Northwest Montana endangered area, there were a total of of 19 packs, 10 of which met the 

breeding criteria. There was an estimated minimum of 126 wolves in the endangered area at the 

end of 2005 (Sime, et al. 2006). This area includes the Kootenai National Forest. 

The Murphy Lake Pack uses the Trego Analysis Area as a portion of their home range. Since the 

pack was established in 1989 there have been two known depredations on livestock attributed to this 

pack, and nine known wolf mortalities. These mortalities include natural as well as human-caused 

mortalities. The Montana Gray Wolf Conservation and Management 2005 Annual Report recorded 3 

wolves in the pack, and no breeding pair. 

1. Prey Base: The Trego Analysis Area supports both summer and winter habitat for most big game 

species. White-tailed deer are the most abundant big game species found within the analysis area. 

Elk, mule deer and moose are also found in the analysis area, however in fewer numbers than whitetailed deer. Together, this mix of species provides a good year-round prey base for wolves. See the 

MIS species section of this document for more information on white-tailed deer habitat conditions 

and population status in the Trego Analysis Area. The white-tailed deer was chosen as the MIS 

species for this analysis area and is a key prey item for the Murphy Lake Pack. The management 

recommendations for this species are generally being met in this analysis area (see MIS section). 

Thermal cover levels are below the recommended levels for white-tailed deer. This would likely 

maintain the current trend for deer, however individuals could be negatively affected during extreme 

weather if suitable thermal cover is not available. 

2. Den and Rendezvous Sites: There are no known den sites in the Trego Anlysis Area. There are 

three known rendezvous sites that have been used in the analysis area since the pack was 
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3-168 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

established. These areas continue to be monitored on a yearly basis. 

3. Sufficient Space with Minimal Exposure to Humans: Open road densities by management area 

(MA) currently meet Forest Plan Standards within this analysis area. There are currently four existing 

openings that are greater than 20 acres in size within MA 11. It is expected that these openings 

would continue to grow trees and would provide hiding cover within the next 10-20 years. 

Environmental Consequences 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect 

Alternative A-No Action 

No timber harvest, fuels treatment, underburns, road closures or road openings are proposed in 

Alternative A. This alternative maintains current conditions for white-tailed deer habitat and human 

access within the analysis area. The existing habitat security woould be maintained. The existing 

conditions around known rendezvous sites would be maintained. A number of existing young timber 

stands would develop cover values over time. 

Alternatives B, C, & D 

1. Sufficient, Year-Round Prey Base: As discussed in the effects analysis for white-tailed deer, all 

action alternatives would not result in any long term, adverse effects to the habitat of white-tailed 

deer, the wolves’ main prey base. In the short term, reduced thermal cover habitat may result in 

displacement or mortality of individuals during severe winters. It is expected that during these severe 

winters, deer may move from the Trego winter range to other nearby winter ranges that provide 

better thermal cover conditions (See White-tailed Deer environmental consequences section). It is 

expected that wolves would move to the adjacent white-tailed deer subherds, (all of which are within 

the wolves’ home range) if fewer animals are found within the Trego Analysis Area in the winter. All 

Forest Plan habitat management recommendations for white-tailed deer are being met in 

Alternative C. Forest Plan habitat management recommendations for winter range are not being 

met in Alternatives B and D for opening sizes and movement corridors for MA11. A project specific 

amendment would be required for these alternatives. As described in the white-tail analysis, although 

the prescriptions used in the winter range result in a more open stand than the existing condition, 

they still provide a higher level of security for movement and hiding cover than a regeneration 

harvest prescription of the same size, and are probably used more than a regeneration harvest 

prescription would be used. 

2. Denning/Rendezvous Sites: There are no known denning sites within the Trego Analysis Area. 

There are three rendezvous sites that have had intermittent use over the last 16 years within the 

analysis area. None of the action alternatives propose activities that would affect the existing habitat 

within or adjacent to these sites. All action alternatives implement design criteria enacting timing 

restrictions on activities that may disrupt movement into or out of important sites (See Design 

Criteria, Table 2-10). Additionally, the timber sale contract would include a mandatory provision that 

would enact special protection measures if critical habitat were identified during the implementation 

of this project (CT6.251). Suitable habitat for denning or rendezvous sites would remain available 

following all alternatives. 

3. Sufficient Space with Minimal Exposure to Humans: Open road densities by MA meet Forest 

Plan Standards in all action alternatives (See White-tailed Deer environmental consequences 

section). All action alternatives would reduce open road densites in both MA 11 winter range and the 

rest of the Trego Analysis Area through road decommissioning, yearlong restrictions, seasonal road 

restrictions and roads place into storage. All action alternatives include measures to close off areas 

of illegal motorized use within the Sunday/Trego Walk-In-Hunting Area. All alternatives restrict the 

use of snowmobiles on the winter range. These measures would all benefit habitat security and 

result in a decreased exposure to humans. All harvest activities would take place off of existing roads 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-169 

so no increases in ORD during harvest activities would occur. 

Harvest within the winter range would result in some larger than recommended openings and loss in 

some movement corridors in Alternatives B and D, however prescriptions used for these areas 

would maintain a higher density of trees than a regeneration harvest and still provide some use for 

animal movement. Alternative C retains the movement corridors and keeps opening sizes within 

Forest Plan Standards (See White-tailed Deer environmental consequences section) within the 

winter range. Outside of the winter range area in MA 15, the overall ability of big game to move 

through the landscape would be marginally affected by the action alternatives. There are some large 

openings not providing hiding cover that would increase in size with adjacent proposed regeneration 

harvest in all alternatives. Alternative D does this in more areas than the other action alternatives. It 

is expected that these areas would continue to grow trees and would provide hiding cover within the 

next 10-20 years. Alternative C would maintain the existing movement areas the best of any action 

alternative. Overall, ridgeline and riparian corridors remain largely intact and although individual 

animals may have to adjust their localized movement patterns, no movement barriers would result. 

Taking into account both the effects of the proposed road closures in all alternatives and the effects 

of the harvest activities, it is expected that all alternatives would result in a reduced opportunity of 

exposure to humans by wolves. Alternative C, however, would reduce this exposure the most. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Past timber harvest and road construction projects, and natural events have created much of the 

existing habitat conditions found within the subunit. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Wildlife Project File, considers and describes 

proposed activities in addition to the past, current and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in 

Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on wolf and their habitat 

are not included in this section. Those activities that cumulatively affect wolves and their habitat 

include private land development, vegetation management and hunting and will be discussed 

below: 

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Development of private 

land, including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and 

installation of improvements, as well as vegetation management, can create a variety of changes to 

the landscape. Depending on the magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of 

private land on the landscape, these activities can have varied effects, including habitat loss, 

increased fragmentation, decreased habitat security, and localized disturbance on wolves 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres for 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. Associated with this could be approximately 6 miles of road construction. 

Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these activities could take 

place in a spatially dispersed manner across the analysis area. Given the relatively small amount of 

acres treated, these activities would contribute minor effects to habitat security, availability of hiding 

cover, fragmentation or connectivity on the landscape, or other habitat parameters required by whitetailed deer or wolves over the next 10 years. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Both state and private landowners generally restrict public use on their 

roads. Potential effects to wolves and their habitat from ongoing timber harvest and road 

construction activities on private land would be minor. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities have 

helped create the existing habitat conditions (vegetation and roads) for wolves within the Trego 
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3-170 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Analysis Area. One current timber sale project (Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate 

harvest to thin overstocked stands. Fuel reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling 

with associated pile burning. Two current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and 

Jim Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark 

beetle infestation. These two sales treat 320 acres in which hiding cover will be retained. Post 

harvest activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect effects from these proposed 

activities are discussed in associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to the wolf and their 

prey species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary roads would be 

closed to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Salvage sales and associated activities can alter vegetation, reduce habitat security, and create 

localized disturbances. It is expected that ongoing and reasonably foreseeable salvage harvest and 

associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute localized and 

minor effects to habitat security, availability of hiding cover, fragmentation or connectivity on the 

landscape, or other habitat parameters required by the wolf. 

Hunting: Ongoing hunting activities are regulated by the MFWP. The Forest Service influences 

hunter access through road management. The Trego Analysis Area is part of the Sunday/Trego 

Walk-In Hunting Area. The majority of the area is closed to motorized vehicles during the hunting 

season, which reduces the wolves’ exposure to humans. 

Hunting activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute to minor short term 

effects (during the general hunting season) to habitat security. Affects from hunting vary with activity 

levels and can include short-term disturbance. Mortality risk to the wolf is increased through hunting. 

The level of hunting within the analysis area is not expected to significantly change due to the action 

alternatives. 

Hunting activities on State and private land vary with area, but access is limited and use levels are 

low. With the limited and low level of use of these activities on private and State lands, potential 

effects to the wolf would be minimal. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

Forest Plan: 

• The project complies with Forestwide Management direction on T&E species that applies to 

the gray wolf (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, Vol. II-1 #5, II-23) and it’s prey base (USDA 

Forest Service, 1987a, Vol. II-1 # 3, #7, #12; II-7, II-22-23). 

• Alternatives B and D do not comply wth Forest Management Area standards in MA 11 as 

they pertain to movement corridors and unit size (III-44 timber standard #6 and III-45 

standard #8) for the wolves’ prey base, white tailed deer. These will require a short-term 

project specific Forest Plan Amendment until adjacent openings provide suitable hiding 

cover for these alternatives. 

Endangered Species Act: 

• The project is consistent with the Endangered Species Act as evidenced through 

consultation with the FWS and receipt of concurrence. 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-171 

Statement of Findings 

Alternatives B, C, and D may affect, but are not likely to adversely affect the gray wolf or its habitat 

based on:

1. Proposed road restrictions would decrease the potential exposure to humans within the 

Trego Analysis Area. 

2. A sufficient, year-round prey base would be provided for the wolf. During severe winters, 

wolves may find fewer deer on the Trego Analysis Area and may need to move to an 

adjacent winter range area supporting more deer. 

 

3. Alternatives would not affect known denning/rendezvous sites. 

4. All action alternatives implement Design Criteria enacting timing restrictions on activities 

that may disrupt movement into or out of important sites (See Design Criteria, Table 2-

10). 

4. LYNX (Lynx canadensis)

Data Sources, Methods, Assumptions, Bounds of Analysis 

Lynx population ecology, biology, and habitat description and relationships are described in 

Ruggiero et. al. (2000) and Ruediger et. al. (2000). That information is incorporated by reference. In 

addition, the final lynx listing rule (Clark 2000) gives population and habitat status on a national 

scale. Lynx occurrence data comes from Forest historical records (NRIS Fauna), and other agencies 

(MNHP, MFWP, USFWS). 

The Lynx Conservation Assessment and Strategy (LCAS) Project planning objectives and planning 

guidelines (pages 7-1 thru 7-17) were considered and used, when appropriate to the proposed 

project activities, during Alternative development. 

The effects analysis follows the standards and guidelines established in the LCAS (Ruediger et.al 

2000). Only the standards and guidelines applicable to the proposed project are analyzed, and they 

are only applied to lynx habitat on Federal lands (in compliance with the LCAS). Those considered 

but found “not applicable” are found in the project file. Lynx habitat, in impacted LAUs, was mapped 

using the timber stand database version of the Kootenai National Forest model with LCAS 

definitions. Connectivity was evaluated by visually examining lynx habitat and past management 

activities to determine possible movement areas and potential areas where lynx travel may be 

hindered. Ridge lines and draws were considered high value movement areas. 

The scale for direct effects analysis is the Sunday/Trego LAU #14307 and for indirect and cumulative 

effects it is this LAU along with the adjacent LAUs for consideration of connectivity effects. The 

Trego Analysis Area lies within the Sunday/Trego LAU. 

Affected Environment 

On March 24, 2000 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed the contiguous U.S. distinct population 

segment of the Canada lynx as Threatened (Clark 2000). National population and habitat status 

descriptions in that document are incorporated by reference. There has been only one known 

documented occurrences of lynx in the Trego Analysis Area (Pers. comm with T. Thier, 2006). 

There have been sightings on the Flathead National Forest within 4 miles of the Trego Analysis Area 

and within the Swamp Analysis Area approximately 8 miles from the Trego Analysis Area. 

In compliance with the LCAS the KNF delineated 47 LAUs which approximate a lynx home range 

size. At the end of 2004, all LAUs except two met the LCAS primary habitat standards (>10% 

denning habitat; <30% unsuitable habitat; <15% changed to unsuitable condition in last 10 years) 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-172 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

(USDA Forest Service 2005). 

Lynx habitat in the Sunday/Trego LAU was mapped in compliance with LCAS project planning 

standard #1 (See Map 3-9). Table 3-46 displays the current lynx habitat conditions in the LAU which 

includes the Trego Analysis Area. 

Table 3-46. Lynx Habitat by LAU in the Trego Analysis Area 

LAU Denning Habitat 

Acres (%) 

Unsuitable Habitat 

Acres (%) \1

Habitat Changed to Unsuitable 

Over past 10 years 

Acres (%) 

Total Lynx Habitat 

In LAU 

Acres (%) \2

140307 41.9 6.8 3.4 87.0 

\1 These acres are lynx habitat that currently do not provide sufficient vegetation quantity or quality (height) to 

be used by snowshoe hare and lynx. 

\2 Percent is the percent of total LAU acres that provide lynx habitat (suitable + unsuitable acres) 

There is one identified linkage corridor (USDA Forest Service 2004b) in or adjacent to the 

Sunday/Trego LAU. 

Environmental Consequences 

Measurement indicators used to evaluate the effects of the proposed actions on the lynx and 

its habitat were found in the Canada Lynx Conservation Assessment and Strategy (LCAS) 

(Ruediger et. al 2000). The LCAS establishes conservation measures that are intended to 

conserve the lynx, and to reduce or eliminate adverse effects from management activities on 

federal lands. 

Direct and indirect effects on lynx habitat are described below for proposed activities and for other 

resource enhancement projects identified in Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered for all 

past, current and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1 and are described at the end 

of this section. 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

• A number of Design Criteria listed in Table 2-10, would be implemented to maintain and 

improve down woody habitat. Identified tasks include: the retention of slash piles for future 

denning sites; the existing down woody material would be left and minimizing disturbance to 

the large down woody material during harvest would be encouraged. These measures would 

help maintain the structure required by lynx for future denning sites. 

• A number of Design Criteria or monitoring items would be implemented to maintain and 

improve snag and down woody habitat. Identified tasks include: the retention of snags and 

dead merchantable trees; retention of live cull and dead-top trees; retention of fire killed trees; 

retention of reserve trees; inoculating live trees with heart-rot pathogens to create live snags 

over the long term; provide for large woody material; and monitoring snag levels. These 

measures would help maintain the structure required by lynx for future denning sites. 

• All action alternatives would maintain existing riparian vegetation and riparian travel corridors 

by following INFISH direction. 

• All action alternatives would decommission a total of 12.47 miles of road within the analysis 

area. An additional 7.16 miles of road would be restricted yearlong for an approximate total of 

19.63 miles of road restriction. Of these road miles, 2.02 miles of road segments are within or 

adjacent to MA13 old growth habitat which would eliminate firewood gathering within and 

adjacent to old growth habitat as well as in stands supporting snags along these roads. 

Consequently, the availability of snag habitat would be maintained and improved over the long 

term in associated stands. 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-173 

• During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to lynx within activity areas. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect 

Programmatic planning standards 1-4 were discussed in the existing condition section above. Only 

the programmatic and planning standards that applied to this project are found below. Rationale for 

dismissing nonapplicable standards is found in the Biological Assessment. Table 3-47 below 

summarizes how the alternatives affect the major LCAS planning standards listed below. 

Table 3-47. Effects by Alternative on LCAS Standards in LAU 14307 

LCAS Standard ALT. A ALT. B ALT. C *ALT. D Meets 

Standard? 

No more than 30% in unsuitable 

condition: acres and (%) 

2,171 

6.8% 

+ 87 

7.0% 

+69 

7.0% 

+242 

7.5% yes 

Maintain at least 10% denning 

habitat; acres and (%) 

13,406 

(41.9%) 

13,289 

(41.5%) 

13,307 

(41.6%) 

13,103 

(40.9%) yes 

No more than 15% management 

change in 10-year period: acres 

and(%) 

1093 

(3.4%) 

1198 

(3.7%) 

1162 

(3.6%) 

1353 

(4.2%) yes 

 *Alternative A represents the existing condition 

Conservation Measures Applicable to All Programs and Activities 

 

The LCAS Programmatic Planning Standards #1, 2, 3, and 4 and LCAS Programmatic Planning 

Guidelines #1, 2, and 3 have been met at the Forest scale through previous consultation with the 

FWS (See LCAS for description of these standards and guidelines). 

Programmatic Planning Standard #5: ... In the absence of guidance developed from such an 

assessment, limit disturbance with each LAU as follows: if more than 30 percent of lynx habitat 

within a LAU is currently in unsuitable condition, no further reduction of suitable conditions shall 

occur as a result of vegetation management activities by federal agencies. All action alternatives 

would slightly increase the amount of unsuitable habitat in the Sunday/Trego LAU, however the 

existing condition plus the alternatives would leave unsuitable habitat well-below 30%. For 

Alternatives B,C, and D, 87 acres, 69 acres, and 242 acres (respectively) would be converted to 

unsuitable by the proposed activities. This planning standard is met for all alternatives (See Table 3-

47 above). 

Project Planning Standard #2: Within a LAU, maintain denning habitat in patches generally larger 

than 5 acres, on at least 10 percent of the area that is capable of producing stands with these 

characteristics. Where less than 10 percent of the forested lynx habitat within a LAU provides 

denning habitat, defer those management actions that would delay achievement of denning habitat 

structure. See Table 3-47 for a comparison, by alternative, of how the Sunday/Trego LAU complies 

with the 10% denning habitat standard. This LAU is well above 10% and the denning habitat stands 

are generally larger than 10 acres. Within the Sunday/Trego LAU, all alternatives remove some 

acres of modeled denning habitat, however the LAU would remain well above the 10% minimum 

standard (See Table 3-47 below). For Alternatives B, C, and D, 117, 303, and 99 acres 

(respectively) of modeled denning habitat would be removed but the remaining levels would be well 

above the 10% minimum standard. 

Project Planning Standard #3: Maintain habitat connectivity within and between LAU’s. This 

standard is met for all alternatives. A review of the distribution of modeled lynx habitat indicates that 

habitat connectivity within the Sunday/Trego LAU is generally good except for the northwest portion 

of the subunit where drier habitats result in non-lynx habitat. Connectivity with other LAUs is mostly 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-174 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

good to the south and east. Managed timber ground in this LAU, as well as the adjacent LAU’s on 

the Flathead NF have resulted in some unsuitable lynx habitat, however there are many travel 

corridors available in the lynx denning and general lynx habitat. Adequate forested corridors would 

remain throughout the LAU after the alternative implementation to allow lynx to move both within and 

between adjacent LAU’s. Over time as vegetation grows back, most of these areas should provide 

good lynx foraging areas. Private land, low elevations and Highway 93 may limit lynx travel to the 

north and west of the Sunday/Trego LAU. 

There is one identified linkage corridor (USDA Forest Service 2004) in or adjacent to the 

Sunday/Trego LAU. 

Conservation Measures to Address Risk Factors Affecting Lynx Productivity 

A. Timber Management in Lynx Habitat

Project Planning Standard #1: Management actions (e.g., timber sales, salvage sales) shall not 

change more than 15 percent of lynx habitat within a LAU to an unsuitable condition within a 10-

year period. 

This standard is met for all alternatives within the Sunday/Trego LAU. All alternatives change 

less than 15% of the lynx to an unsuitable condition. Table 3-47 provides a comparison, by 

alternative, of how this LAU complies with this standard. This analysis assumed the worst case 

scenario which calculates all harvest converting lynx habitat to an unsuitable condition, occurring 

within one year. It also looked at all the unsuitable habitat from 1996 to the projected harvest 

year of 2007, which looks at all harvest within a 12 year period instead of the 10 year period. The 

percentage of habitat changed to unsuitable does not change much by alternative. As new trees 

and shrubs grow in the harvest units that are 10 -15 years old, these units will become foraging 

habitat for lynx, moving these stands out of the unsuitable category.

B. Wildland Fire Management

Prescribed fires are included in the definition of Wildland Fire Management and prescribed fires are 

planned after harvest to reduce the slash fuel hazards and prepare the stands for regeneration by 

natural seeding and/or tree planting. 

Project Planning Standard #2: Design burn prescriptions to regenerate or create snowshoe hare 

habitat (e.g., regeneration of aspen and lodgepole pine). 

This standard is met. The proposed underburning is mostly in lower elevation areas outside of 

lynx habitat. In lynx habitat, following regeneration harvest, the proposed prescribed burning 

would consist of mostly underburning. The result would be regeneration of species used by 

snowshoe hare (if available on site to begin with). 

C. Recreation Management

Programmatic Planning Standard #1: On federal lands in lynx habitat, allow no net increase in 

groomed or designated over-the-snow routes and snowmobile play areas by LAU. This applies 

to dispersed recreation, rather than existing ski areas.

 

All alternatives meet this standard. Under current District management, all portions of the Trego 

Analysis Area and Trego/Sunday LAU are open to snowmobiling (except in the winter range and 

within the Walk-In Hunting Area during hunting season) but none of the areas are designated as 

play areas. 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-175 

D. Forest/Backcountry Roads and Trails 

Programmatic Planning Standard #1: On federal lands in lynx habitat, allow no net increase in 

groomed or designated over-the-snow routes and snowmobile play areas by LAU. Winter 

logging activity is not subject to this restriction. 

All alternatives would meet this standard. Winter logging would occur on a few of the proposed 

timber sale units but the standard states that winter logging is not subject to the restriction. . 

Under current District management, all portions of the Trego Analysis Area and Trego/Sunday 

LAU are open to snowmobiling (except in the winter range and within the Walk-In Hunting Area 

during hunting season) but none of the areas are designated as play areas. 

E. Livestock Grazing

Project Planning Standard #1: Do not allow livestock use in openings created by fire or timber 

harvest that would delay successful regeneration of the shrub and tree components. Delay 

livestock use in post-fire and post-harvest created openings until successful regeneration of the 

shrub and tree components occurs. 

This standard is met. Livestock use would be allowed to continue at permitted levels but 

successful regeneration of shrubs and trees would occur. Previous experience on the Fortine 

Ranger District has shown that grazing by livestock at permitted levels has not prevented 

successful regeneration of trees and shrubs across the allotments. Management activities 

including moving cattle around to insure proper forage utilization and resource protection, and 

the maintenance of range improvement structures contribute to meeting this standard. 

Project Planning Standard #2: Manage grazing aspen stands to ensure sprouting and sprout 

survival sufficient to perpetuate the long-term viability of the clones. 

This standard is met for all alternatives. The majority of the aspen found in this analysis area is 

located at lower elevations outside of the LAU or associated with riparian areas. In addition to 

the management activities discussed above, controlling cattle grazing within disturbed riparian 

areas were identified to restrict cattle access to the streams (see Table 1 of the Current and 

Foreseeable Actions in Chapter 1 and Design Criteria in Chapter 2.) 

Project Planning Standard #4: Within lynx habitat, manage livestock grazing in riparian areas 

and willow carrs to maintain or achieve mid seral or higher condition to provide cover and forage 

for prey species. 

This standard is met. Refer to the discussion under Project Planning Standards #1 and #2. 

Conservation Measures to Address Mortality Risk Factors 

As described in the LCAS (pp. 7-12 and 13), there are five measures used to address mortality risk 

factors. They are: trapping, predator control, shooting, competition and predation as influenced by 

human activities, and highways. Predator control is not within the authority of the Forest Service and 

therefore is not applicable to Forest Service projects. 

 

A. Trapping (legal and non-target) and Shooting: Federal agencies should work to reduce incidental 

take of lynx related to trapping and shooting. The Forest Service’s role in these issues is access. 

No new permanent road construction would occur in any alternative, however 3.52 miles of 

unclassified system road would be again used for the timber sale. An existing closed Road 3730C is 

proposed to be turned into a trail. Two and 1⁄2 miles of the road are currently unclassified road and 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-176 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

will be converted to a system trail with varying travel restrictions depending on the alternative. These 

proposed restrictions are listed below. 

 In Alternative B, the Sunday Mtn. Trail would be open to nonmotorized use, and would allow 

snowmobile use after the hunting season. This management action would not be a change from the 

existing condition where the same uses are currently allowed in this area, however an increase in 

use is expected both for the summer/fall nonmotorized and the winter snowmobile use over the 

existing amount of use. 

In Alternative C, this trail would be open to nonmotorized use, and would restrict snowmobile use. 

This alternative would result in a probable increase in the summer/fall of nonmotorized use, and less 

use in the winter from snowmobiles.This alternative provides the least amount of access and 

therefore has the lowest potential for incidental take of lynx related to trapping and shooting. 

Alternative D opens this trail to motorized use (ATV’s, motorcycles) except during the hunting 

season (as this area is located within the Walk-In Hunting Area) and would allow snowmobile use 

after the hunting season. This alternative would result in an increase both in motorized access in the 

summer as well as an increase in snowmobile use in the winter. 

A total of 12.47 miles of existing road are planned to be permanently closed through 

decommissioning or road storage in every alternative. There are also 3.57 miles of road that would 

be restricted yearlong to snowmobiles in every alternative. An additional 5.37 miles of road restrict 

snowmobile use in Alternative C. There is only one documented occurrence of lynx and no historical 

records found within the Trego Analysis Area. The trapping levels within this Trego/Sunday LAU are 

low (Pers. Comm. with T. Thier, 2006). All alternatives restrict motorized travel on this trail during the 

hunting season. Given the lack of historical sightings it is expected that lynx use within the 

Trego/Sunday LAU is low. Trapping levels within this area are also low and all alternatives 

permanently close roads and decrease snowmobile use which should decrease the risk of incidental 

take related to shooting and trapping. Because of these factors listed above, none of the alternatives 

are expected to increase the risk of incidental take to the lynx. 

B. Competition and Predation as Influenced by Human Activities: On federal lands in lynx habitat, 

allow no net increase in groomed or designated over-the-snow routes and snowmobile play areas by 

LAU. This is intended to apply to dispersed recreation, rather than existing ski areas. 

This standard is met. The proposed activities would not cause any increase in groomed or 

designated over-the-snow routes and snowmobile play areas (LCAS). Although winter logging could 

occur, no increase in groomed or designated over-the-snow routes and snowmobile play areas 

would result. Snowmobiles can legally use the project area under current management direction but 

there are no groomed or designated routes or play areas. 

Highways: Within lynx habitat, identify key linkage areas and potential highway crossing areas. 

One key linkage area is mapped on the northeast portion of the LAU. None of the action 

alternatives affect the integrity of the mapped linkage corridor near Highway 93 on the northeast 

portion of the LAU. No activities are proposed in that area. 

Conservation Measures to address Movement and Dispersal 

The programmatic planning objectives, standards, and guidelines to provide landscape connectivity 

are being incorporated into the Northern Region Lynx Amendment to the Forests Plans. 

Highways - Project planning standard #1: ”See response to “Conservation Measures to Address 

Mortality Risk Factors – Highways” above. 

Land Ownership -- Project planning standard #1: “....protect/enhance key linkage areas.” Key 

linkage areas do exist in the Sunday/Trego LAU as previously described (see Conservation 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-177 

Measures Applicable to All Programs and Activities – Project planning standard #3: “Maintain habitat 

connectivity within and between LAUs.”). 

The planned activities comply with these conservation measures. Landscape connectivity will be 

maintained as described under Conservation Measures Applicable to All Programs and Activities, 

Project Planning Standard #3. No highways, land ownership adjustments, or ski areas/resorts are 

involved. 

Alternative A-No Action 

The No Action alternative would not measurably change the existing habitat conditions for the lynx 

as described in Chapter 3 during the next ten years. Proposed road closures will not be 

implemented, thereby maintaining the existing habitat security. The creation of forage through 

harvest units would also not occur. Stand treatment/burning that would increase plant vigor and 

composition will not take place, and in turn increase the risk for stand replacement fires. A number 

of stands that are now unsuitable lynx habitat will regenerate and grow into forage habitat for lynx. 

Alternative A would have no effect on lynx or their habitat. This determination is based on: 1) no 

harvest or mangement activity would occur as a result of this alternative, and 2) no habitat changes 

or planned activities that would cause a disturbance would occur. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Past timber harvest, road construction projects, and natural events have created much of the existing 

habitat conditions found within the analysis area. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Threatened and Endangered species project file, 

considers and describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably 

foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible 

effects on addressed species or their habitat are not included in this section. Those activities that 

cumulatively affect the species or habitat will be discussed below. These include vegetative 

management, private land development, and pre-commercial thinning. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities have 

helped create the existing habitat conditions (vegetation and roads) for lynx within the Trego Analysis 

Area. One current timber sale project (Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate harvest to 

thin overstocked stands. Fuel reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling with 

associated pile burning. Two current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim 

Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark 

beetle infestation. These two sales treat 320 acres in which hiding cover will be retained. Post 

harvest activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect effects from these proposed 

activities are discussed in associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to the lynx and their 

prey species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary roads would be 

closed to public traffic. 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. In addition, it is 

expected that there would be some blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 

40 acres over the next 10 years and activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage 

DN/FONSI direction. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan and Forest-wide Blowdown 

Salvage DN/FONSI (USDA Forest Service, 1998c), and direction provided in the Lynx Conservation 

Strategy and Assessment. 

Salvage sales and associated activities can alter vegetation, reduce habitat security, and create 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-178 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

localized disturbances. It is expected that ongoing and reasonably foreseeable salvage harvest and 

associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area will cumulatively contribute localized and minor 

effects to habitat security, availability of hiding cover, fragmentation or connectivity on the landscape, 

or other habitat parameters required by the lynx. 

Private land development and vegetation management on private land: Development of private 

land, including the construction of roads, clearing of vegetation, construction of residences, and 

installation of improvements, as well as vegetation management, can create a variety of changes to 

the landscape. Depending on the magnitude, type, and location of developments and the amount of 

private land on the landscape, these activities can have varied effects, including habitat loss, 

increased fragmentation, decreased habitat security, and localized disturbance of lynx. The majority 

of the public land within the Trego Analysis Area lies below the elevational parameters outlined for 

lynx. 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres for 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. Associated with this could be approximately 6 miles of road construction. 

Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these activities could take 

place in a spatially dispersed manner across the analysis area. Given the relatively small amount of 

acres treated, these activities would contribute minor effects to habitat security, availability of hiding 

cover, fragmentation or connectivity on the landscape, or other habitat parameters required by lynx 

over the next 10 years. 

Ongoing pre-commercial thinning on National Forest land occurs when past regenerated timber 

stands meet certain stand conditions. No pre-commercial thinning occurs within lynx habitat as 

identified by the Lynx Conservation Strategy and Assessment. It is expected that 484 acres will be 

treated through pre-commercial thinning within the analysis area over the next 10 years. 

Pre-commercial thinning will maintain hiding cover values of the stand for associated species. 

During thinning operations, there are short-term localized disturbance to species in the area. 

Mortality risk for lynx is not expected to increase. 

Pre-commercial thinning on State land is considered a minor activity. With the limited amount of precommercial thinning on State lands, potential effects to lynx and their habitat would be indiscernible. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

• The project complies with Forest Plan direction on T&E species that applies to the Lynx 

(USDA Forest Service, 1987a, Vol. II-1 #7, II-22). 

• The project is consistent with the Endangered Species Act. 

Statement of Findings 

Alternatives B, C, and D may affect, but is not likely to adversely affect the lynx. This determination 

is based on: 

1. The Sunday/Trego LAU meets the conservation measures outlined in the LCAS applicable 

to the alternatives. By complying with the USFWS/USFS MOU agreement to use the 

LCAS standards, we are maintaining the option for FWS to complete the court order 

requiring them to designate critical lynx habitat. 

2. The risk of mortality from trapping would not measurably increase as a result of the 

alternatives. 

3. Adequate suitable habitat would be maintained to facilitate movement between and within 

LAUs. 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-179 

4. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to lynx within the analysis 

area. 

E. Neo-Tropical Migratory Birds 

Executive Order #13186 (January 10, 2001): “Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect 

Migratory Birds” was issued by President Bill Clinton in furtherance of the purposes of the Migratory 

Bird Treaty Act, the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Acts, the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, 

the Endangered Species Act, and the National Environmental Policy Act. This order requires 

including effects of federal actions on migratory birds as part of the environmental analysis process. 

On January 17, 2001, the USDA Forest Service and the USDI Fish and Wildlife Service signed a 

Memorandum of Understanding to complement the Executive Order. 

The National Forest Management Act (NFMA) requires that Forest plans "preserve and enhance the 

diversity of plant and animal communities...so that it is at least as great as that which can be 

expected in the natural forest" (36 CFR 219.27). Additional direction states that "management 

prescriptions, where appropriate and to the extent practicable, shall preserve and enhance the 

diversity of plant and animal communities, including endemic and desirable naturalized plant and 

animal species, so that it is at least as great as that which could be expected in a natural forest". 

Furthermore, implementation regulations for the NFMA specify that, "Fish and wildlife habitat shall be 

managed to maintain viable populations of existing native and desired non-native vertebrate species 

in the planning area". 

Affected Environment 

Neotropical migratory birds are those bird species that migrate to more northerly latitudes to breed 

on the Kootenai National Forest each summer. Come fall, these species migrate south to spend the 

winter months. Of the approximately 205 bird species known to occur on the Forest as breeders, 

migrants, winter visitors, or transients, about 70 species could be classified as Neotropical migratory 

land birds (Al Bratkovich, Libby District Wildlife Biologist and Forest Land bird Monitoring Program 

Coordinator, pers. comm. with Lynn Johnson). Since 1994, the Kootenai National Forest has been 

active in the R-1 Landbird Monitoring Program. Survey routes have been established on the District, 

however none occur within the analysis area. 

Environmental Consequences 

Responses of migrant birds to timber harvest, burning (prescribed or wildfire) depends upon their 

individual habitat preferences and needs. Regeneration harvest removes forest cover used by some 

species (e.g. brown creeper, golden-crowned kinglet, hermit thrush) and at the same time creates 

grass, forbs, and shrub habitat used by other bird species (e.g. American kestrel, calliope 

hummingbird, chipping sparrow). This activity also produces “edge” habitat that still other bird 

species use (e.g dark-eyed junco, western tanger, Townsend’s warbler). Edge habitat often is similar 

to forest stands created with partial cutting (e.g. commercial thinning, shelterwood). Species using 

edge are often found in partial cut stands, so this management practice may provide additional 

habitat for these species (Hutto and Young 1999). 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ALTERNATIVES 

Management indicator species have been designated for the Kootenai National Forest (See the 

discussion of MIS above). These MIS species represent the habitat needs for migratory birds. As 

habitat for MIS species is being maintained, it is assumed that sufficient habitat and populations of 

Neotropical migratory land birds is also being maintained. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-180 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Both fire suppression and the removal of large trees during the 1900's have probably been the most 

significant factors in the formation of the existing habitat conditions for migratory birds. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the snag habitat and associated species project file, 

considers and describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably 

foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible 

effects on addressed species or their habitat are not included in this section. Those activities that 

cumulatively affect the species or habitat will be discussed below. They include activities that may 

affect the available snag habitat. These include private land development, vegetation harvest and 

firewood gathering.

Private land development: Land development, including the construction of roads, clearing of 

vegetation, construction of residences, and installation of improvements, as well as vegetation 

management, can create a variety of changes to the landscape. Depending on the magnitude, type, 

and location of developments and the amount of private land on the landscape, these activities can 

have varied effects, including habitat loss, increase in fragmentation, and localized disturbance on 

snag-dependant species. Because of past activities, it is assumed that nesting habitat is limited on 

private land. Because of the territory requirements of some species, private land can provide 

additional feeding habitat opportunities. 

According to Lincoln Electric information, permanent land clearing of 12 acres from 24 home sites is 

expected to occur. This would result in approximately 6 miles of road construction and 24 new 

homes constructed. Considering that 33% of the Trego Analysis Area is in private/state land, these 

activities could take place in a fairly dispersed manner across the analysis area. Development of 

private lands within the analysis area could potentially reduce the amount of general foraging habitat 

for migratory birds. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. There is a potential for one 

salvage sale to be implemented in the year 2008. Ongoing timber harvest on private land includes 

both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Based on past rates of regeneration 

harvest it is anticipated that approximately 279 acres of regeneration harvest could occur on private 

lands in the next 10 years. Because of the existing roads, the amount of new road construction 

associated with the possible harvest is expected to be minor. Both state and private landowners 

generally restrict public use on their roads. Given the relatively small amount of acres treated over 

the next 10 years, these activities would contribute minor effects to foraging habitat to old growth, or 

snag-dependent species. This does not represent a large portion of the private land and should not 

be a limiting factor for migratory birds. The action alternatives, in combination with other proposed 

and reasonably foreseeable Forest Service, State and private activities would contribute minor 

effects to migratory birds and their habitat. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales (identified in Chapter 1 and associated activities, have 

modified the old growth and snag habitat within Trego Analysis Area. One current timber sale project 

(Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate harvest to thin overstocked stands. Fuel 

reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling with associated pile burning. Two 

current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) 

are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Post harvest 

activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect effects from ongoing activities were 

discussed in their associated BA’s and BE’s. 

A foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in 

response to the past Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan 

snag direction. During logging operations, there may be short-term disturbance to snag dependent 

species. Salvage sales generally utilize existing road systems. Any temporary roads would be closed 

to public traffic. 
Wildlife Resources 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-181 

There is a potential for additional small salvage timber sales over the next 10 years. Salvage 

activities would follow Forest Plan direction. In addition, it is expected that there would be some 

blowdown salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and 

activities would follow the 1998 Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. 

Salvage sales and associated activities can alter vegetation, reduce habitat security, and create 

localized disturbances. It is expected that ongoing and reasonably foreseeable salvage harvest and 

associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively contribute localized and 

minor effects to habitat loss, increased fragmentation or connectivity on the landscape, or habitat 

parameters required by the migratory birds. 

Firewood gathering on National Forest land is a permitted use that occurs along all open roads 

except within MA 13 Old Growth areas. The availability of snags and down woody material will be 

reduced along the road influence zone. The ASH model accounts for this decrease in snags along 

open roads and reflects this in the ASH levels reported. Firewood gathering can also cause minor 

short-term localized displacement to species using the area. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable 

firewood gathering activities within the Trego Analysis Area would cumulatively result in localized 

and minor effects on snag habitat other habitat parameters required by the migratory birds. 

Firewood gathering on State and private land is generally considered a minor activity. It was 

assumed that the same level of firewood gathering occurs on State and private land and provides the 

same baseline conditions there for these species, so potential effects would be minor. The level of 

firewood gathering is expected to remain fairly stable over the next 10 years. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

There are no specific goals or standards for migratory land birds in the Kootenai Forest plan. It does 

contain the goal to: “Maintain diverse age classes of vegetation for viable populations of all existing 

native, vertebrate, wildlife species (USDA Forest Service 1987a, Vol. 1, II-1, goal #7). All 

alternatives are consistent with the Kootenai Forest plan, as a range of successional habitats would 

be available (See Vegetation section). The alternatives are in compliance with the “Executive Order 

titled “Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds”. In addition, as habitat for MIS 

species is being maintained in the Trego Analysis Area, and across the Kootenai National Forest, 

their habitat contributes to the maintenance of habitat and populations of Neotropical migratory bird 

species. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-182 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Recreation 

Analysis Area 

The area of analysis for recreation resources is the Trego Analysis Area. 

Description of Measurement Indicators 

As stated in the Forest Plan, the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) would be the guide for all 

recreation activities and management. The ROS (USDA Forest Service, 1982) mixes or combines 

activities, settings, and probable experience opportunities along a scale divided into six classes. This 

is designed to help the resource manager provide better, more satisfying experiences for the user. 

The Forest Plan defines the ROS Classes as: 

Primitive (PRIM) - Area is characterized by essentially unmodified natural environment of fairly 

large size. Interaction between uses is very low and evidence of other area users is minimal. The 

area is managed to be essentially free from evidence of man-induced restrictions and controls. 

Motorized use within the area is not permitted. 

Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized (SPNM) - Area is characterized by a predominantly natural or 

natural-appearing environment of moderate-to-large size. Interaction between uses is low, but 

there is often evidence of other area users. The area is managed in such a way that minimum 

on-site controls and restrictions may be present, but are subtle. Motorized use is not permitted. 

Semi-Primitive Motorized (SPM) - Area is characterized by a predominantly natural or naturalappearing environment of moderate-to-large size. Concentration of users is low, but there is 

often evidence of other area users. The area is managed in such a way that minimum on-site 

controls and restrictions may be present, but are subtle. Motorized use is permitted. 

Roaded Natural Appearing (RNA) - Area is characterized by a predominantly natural appearing 

environment with moderate evidences of the sights and sounds of man. Such evidences usually 

harmonize with the natural environment. Interaction between users may be low to moderate, but 

with evidence of other uses prevalent. Resource modification and utilization practices are 

evident, but harmonize with the natural environment. Conventional motorized use is provided for 

in the construction standards and design of facilities. 

Rural (R) - Area is characterized by substantially modified natural environment. Resource 

modification and utilization practices are primarily to enhance specific recreation activities and 

maintain vegetative cover and soil. Sights and sounds of man are readily evident, and the 

interaction between users is often moderate to high. A considerable number of facilities are 

designed for use by a large amount of people. Facilities are often provided for special activities. 

Moderate densities are provided far away from developed sites. Facilities for intensified 

motorized use and parking are available. 

Urban (U) – No description found in the Forest Plan as none exist on the Forest. 

Affected Environment 

The Trego Analysis Area provides for a variety of recreational opportunities for the Forest user. 

Hunting, fishing, trapping, driving for pleasure, firewood gathering, huckleberry picking, mountain 

biking, cross country skiing, snowmobiling, and dispersed camping are all part of the wide 

recreational spectrum found. 

At this time, the predominant recreational use in the Trego Area is by hunters, both spring and fall. 

Elk, white-tailed and mule deer, black bear, and mountain lions are hunted throughout the analysis 

area. An area of special designation managed by a gate system is located in the east half of the 
Recreation

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-183 

drainage that allows for no vehicles, including over the snow, to use the area from October 15 

through December 1. We refer to it as the Walk-In Hunting Area and it is allowed by Order Number 

321 (USDA Forest Service, 1994). 

The analysis area contains no developed recreation sites. There is a day use area that is used 

mostly by locals recreating at Bear Paw Lake. Bear Paw Lake is a small lake located off of Road 

3581, which takes off of Lime Creek Road 3780. The area has no improvements and it is showing 

wear from users. Also in the immediate area are two roads and a section of another that are 

restricted yearlong that provide opportunity for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. 

There are a number of sites along roads, at dead-end roads, and near creeks that are used 

predominantly by hunters. These dispersed sites currently have no improvements, and use by 

recreationists other than hunters is low. 

Three Outfitter and Guide permits have operated in the analysis area in the recent past. Two for 

consumptive use (hunting) and the other for non-consumptive uses such as trail rides. The Rexford 

Ranger District administers the two hunting permits because the majority of the permitted use occurs 

on that District. The non-consumptive permit has not been issued for the past two years due to lack 

of request by the permittee. 

There are no open trails in the area. It is possible that there is an old trail that leads up to the Sunday 

Mountain Lookout site. 

Within the Trego Analysis Area, 86 percent of the 14,775 acres of National Forest Lands are in MAs 

suitable for timber harvest. Consequently, the analysis area has been managed for timber production 

in the past and most of the roads in the area are either in, adjacent to, or have a view of a past 

regeneration harvest unit. 

The ROS is the basis for all recreation activities and management. The breakdown of MAs and 

corresponding ROS standards can be found in Table 3-49. The current ROS standard for the entire 

analysis area can be summarized as Roaded Natural Appearing (RNA). RNA can be described as 

an area that offers opportunities to get away from others, but having easy access. There is strong 

evidence of designed roads. The environment may be substantially modified where roads, landings, 

slash, and debris may be visible, but would remain unnoticed from sensitive travel routes. There is 

typically moderate evidence of other users on roads and little evidence of others at any areas used 

for camping or on trails. There is little on-site control of users except for gated roads. 

The following table displays the acreage of each Management Area within the Trego Area with the 

corresponding ROS Standard from the Forest Plan. 

Table 3-49. Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) for Trego Management Areas 

MA Acres ROS Standards 

11 2,053 Varies throughout from semi-primitive non-motorized to roadednatural 

12 3 Predominately roaded natural with some semi-primitive motorized 

and rural opportunities 

13 1,941 Distributed to all ROS classes and determined by adjacent MAs 

ROS class 

15 10,102 Predominately roaded natural and rural 

16 499 Predominately roaded natural with some opportunity for semiprimitive motorized in the higher elevations 

21(Other) 17 Roaded natural/ Semi-primitive non-motorized 

24 161 Predominately semi-primitive non-motorized and semi-primitive 

motorized 
Chapter 3 

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3-184 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Environmental Consequences 

Direct and indirect effects on the recreation resource are described below for the proposed activities 

and other resource enhancement projects identified in Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were 

considered for all current and reasonable foreseeable activities listed and described in Table 1-4 of 

Chapter 1. The Cumulative Effects Worksheet located in the Recreation Project File evaluates the 

effects of these activities on the recreation resource. Only those activities that either need 

clarification or have a measurable effect on this resource were included in the following sections. 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

Additions to the National Forest Road System: All action alternatives propose 3.52 miles of roads to 

be converted from unclassified roads to classified National Forest System Roads with yearlong 

restrictions, including snow vehicles. There are two current travel determinations for the 3.52 miles of 

roads: 1.32 miles of open road and 2.2 miles of yearlong restricted roads allowing snowmobile use. 

The proposal would decrease the amount of roads previously open during the summer by 1.32 miles. 

This would constitute a loss for summer-motorized activities but a gain for those who may use the 

roads for non-motorized activities such as hiking, biking, and hunting. Winter use for snowmobiling 

would be decreased by 2.76 miles with the action alternatives. 

Road Decommissioning: All action alternatives propose 12.47 miles of roads to be decommissioned. 

The 12.47 total miles of decommissioning is made up of nine NFS roads totaling 3.32 miles and 27 

unclassified roads totaling 9.15 miles. The current travel management for the 12.47 miles of road is 

made up of 2.79 miles of seasonally restricted roads (.42 NFSR and 2.37 unclassified), 0.65 miles of 

open roads (.39 NFSR and .26 unclassified), and 9.03 miles of roads with yearlong closures (2.51 

NFSR and 6.52 unclassified). Consequently there would be 3.44 (.81 NFSR and 2.63 unclassified) 

miles of road that were previously open during the summer that would now be unavailable with the 

decommissioning. 

The methods to be used for decommissioning would include full recontouring, partial recontouring, 

removal of culverts and other drainage structures, ripping the roadbed, installing waterbars, outsloping the road prism, seeding and fertilizing disturbed soil, or blocking the road entrance and 

abandoning the road to allow for revegetation. With the exception of full recontouring, some roads 

would still be useable by recreationists for a time before the road prism would become overgrown 

with vegetation. These roads would not resemble a trail, but would be a corridor that one could 

choose to explore for a number of years. Eventually all of the decommissioned roads would be 

unusable as corridors. 

Additional Seasonal Road Restrictions: In additional to their current restrictions, all action 

alternatives propose to restrict four roads (3770, 3770A, 3771, and 3783) totaling 7.50 miles, 

seasonally to all motorized vehicles, including snow vehicles, from December 1 to April 30. This 

additional restriction would have no effect on summer use but would affect winter use and 

consequently snowmobile users the most by closing an additional 7.50 miles during the winter and 

early spring. 

Additional Yearlong Road Restrictions: All action alternatives propose additional yearlong road 

restrictions of 7.16 total miles with 3.59 miles of road allowing snowmobiles from 12/10-4/30 and 

3.57 miles restricting snowmobiles yearlong. Alternative C differs slightly with only .02 more miles 

(3.59 + 3.59 = 7.18) and is not analyzed separately regarding this except regarding the additional 

yearlong road restrictions. All 7.16 miles would be unavailable for public motorized travel as a result 

of the yearlong restrictions. Those seeking motorized opportunities would be displaced and, in many 

cases, concentrated in the remaining open areas. Although these miles are not well-used routes, it 

still constitutes a loss of opportunity for winter recreationists. A total of 3.57 miles of road previously 

open to snowmobiles would become unavailable. 

In summary, additions to the National Forest Road System, road decommissioning, additional 

seasonal road restrictions, and additional yearlong road restrictions all negatively affect the 
Recreation

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-185 

snowmobile user. The effect does not equal the number of road miles. It is less because the areas 

where the restrictions would occur are lower in elevation so they are not high use areas. Also, a 

corridor to the higher use areas in this subunit as well as adjacent subunits still exists. 

Additions to the National Forest Trail System: All action alternatives propose building .16 miles of 

trail to connect the ends of roads 3781 and 3781B to create a loop trail approximately 2 miles long 

from Bear Paw Lake. We will refer to this trail as Bear Paw Lake Trail. The existing use would 

continue with the trail designated for non-motorized use only. This project also proposes 

improvements to a concentrated use area near Bear Paw Lake (See Resource Enhancements in 

Chapter 2.) Both of these proposals would be beneficial to the Recreation Resource. 

All action alternatives propose to convert the unclassified portion of Road 3730C, a length of 2.5 

miles, to a system trail. Roads 3732 and 3702 would be utilized as a trail loop and approximately .5 

miles of new trail would be constructed to complete the loop. We will refer to this trail as Sunday 

Mountain Trail. Roads 3732 and 3702 are currently open December 1st to June 30th for motorized 

use, and December 1st to April 30th for snow vehicles. Any decision regarding changing the 

restrictions placed on these two roads would occur under the next Sunday Area analysis. The trail 

loop would total approximately 7.3 miles; each alternative proposes to allow different uses on the 

Trego Analysis Area portions of the trail. See specific alternative descriptions below. 

Other Road and Area Management (Access Management): The Region 1 Off-Highway Vehicle 

(OHV) EIS and Plan Amendment Decision of 2001 made motorized cross-country travel illegal on all 

federally managed lands in Montana, North Dakota, and portions of South Dakota with exceptions 

made for permit and contract activities. In addition, it allows vehicles to travel up to 300 feet off road 

for camping. The OHV Plan Amendment Decision also required motorized vehicles remain on routes 

that existed before the 2001 Decision and that fit the vehicle (a four wheel vehicle cannot travel on a 

single track route). 

All action alternatives propose to designate the entire Trego Analysis Area as an area closed to 

public motorized use, except on designated roads. All unauthorized trails within the Trego Analysis 

Area would be closed to motorized use. National Forest System trails would be designated for 

vehicle use depending upon which alternative is selected. All areas within the Trego Analysis Area 

boundary would be closed to cross-country/off-road motorized use. Enforcement of this area closure 

would help to eliminate cross-county use and the development of unauthorized roads. The closure 

would remain in effect until a Forest-wide Travel Access Analysis for designating motor vehicle 

routes is completed and a Motor Vehicle Use Map is produced, as required in 36 CFR Parts 212, 

251, 261, and 295; November 9, 2005. The Travel Access Analysis and Motor Vehicle Use Maps are 

scheduled for completion in 2009. 

Road Resurfacing and Intermittent Stored Services: All action alternatives propose to resurface the 

first 3.8 miles of the Jim Creek Road 3730 as well as place the end portion of Road 3722 (.44 miles)

into intermittent stored service. This would have minimal affect on the recreation user. 

Fuel Reduction Activities and Vegetation Management: Although short in duration and intensity, 

recreationists in the analysis area could be directly affected by having their visibility and air quality 

impaired by smoke produced during prescribed burning of activity and natural fuels. The indirect 

effects of increased traffic from timber management operations, including related road maintenance 

such as BMPs, on roads due to the proposed activities would be short term. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Alternative B: The Sunday Mountain Trail would allow for non-motorized use except it would be 

open to snow vehicles from December 1st to April 30th. This would create an increase in opportunities 

for hikers and an improved opportunity for snowmobilers. 
Chapter 3 

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3-186 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Alternative C: The Sunday Mountain Trail would allow for non-motorized only and be restricted 

yearlong to all motorized vehicles, including snowmobiles. This would create an increase in 

opportunities for hikers and a decrease in opportunity for snowmobilers. 

This alternative would also include changing 5.37 miles of yearlong restricted road from allowing 

snowmobiles 12/1-4/30 to restricting them. Although these miles are not well-used routes, it still 

constitutes a loss of opportunity for snowmobilers. 

Alternative D: The Sunday Mountain Trail would allow for yearlong motorized use for motorcycles, 

ATVs and snowmobiles. This would increase the opportunities for summer and winter motorized 

recreation. 

ALTERNATIVE A - NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Under this alternative no new management actions would occur. There would be little if no effect on 

most recreation activities excluding the continued disrepair and site spread to the area adjacent to 

Bear Paw Lake. There would be no change in public access; roads would not be decommissioned, 

roads would not be placed into intermittent stored service, or resurfaced. No roads would be 

converted to trails and no new trails would be constructed. Harvest and fuel reduction treatments 

would not take place thereby resulting in no affect to recreationists in the short term. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ALTERNATIVES 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Recreation Project File, considers and describes 

proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonable foreseeable activities listed in 

Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively affect recreation will be discussed below. 

Road maintenance, road decommissioning, and road restrictions all affect the recreation resource 

both negatively and positively depending upon ones choice of recreational activity. 

I have reviewed the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities for the Trego Analysis Area 

listed in Table 1-4, and have determined that no measurable increase in cumulative effects would 

result from the implementation of the proposed activities. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

All alternatives would be consistent with the Forest Plan for the Recreation Resource. 
Scenic

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-187 

Scenic 

Analysis Area 

The area of analysis for scenic resources is the entire Trego Analysis Area. 

Description of Measurement Indicators 

The Kootenai National Forest (KNF) visual resources management method was updated in 1995 

from the Visual Management System (VMS) (USDA Forest Service, 1974) to the Scenery 

Management System (SMS). This new system is presented in Landscape Aesthetics, A Handbook 

for Scenery Management. This system is a tool for “integrating the benefits, values, desires, and 

preferences regarding aesthetics and scenery for all levels of land management planning” (USDA 

Forest Service, 1995c). 

Desired levels of scenic quality in the KNF Forest Plan are expressed in VMS terminology as Visual 

Quality Objectives (VQOs). The Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, VI-23) definitions for 

VQOs are as follows: 

• Preservation – In general, human activities are not detectable to the visitor. 

• Retention – Human activities are not evident to the casual Forest visitor. 

• Partial Retention – Human activities may be evident, but must remain subordinate to the 

characteristic landscape. 

• Modification – Human activity may dominate the characteristic landscape but must, at the 

same time, utilize naturally established form, line, color, and texture. It should appear as a 

natural occurrence when viewed in the middle ground or background. 

• Maximum Modification – Human activity may dominate the characteristic landscape, but 

should appear as a natural occurrence when viewed as background. 

Until the KNF Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service, 1987a) is updated, it is necessary to continue to 

incorporate the VMS terms with the SMS for clarity of the effects on the desired levels specific to 

each management area. Scenic integrity is a measure of the degree to which a landscape is visually 

perceived to be “complete” (USDA Forest Service, 1995c, 2-1). Within the Scenery Management 

System, scenic integrity ranges from very high to very low. Scenic integrity can be compared to 

visual quality objectives in the Visual Management System. The VQOs for each management area 

were determined through the Forest Planning process. A crosswalk between the two systems is 

shown below: 

Table 3-50. Scenery Management System/Visual Management System Crosswalk 

Scenic Integrity (SMS) VQO (VMS) Brief Description 

Very High Preservation The valued landscape character "is” intact 

with only minute deviations. 

High Retention The valued landscape character "appears" 

intact. 

Moderate Partial Retention The valued landscape character "appears 

slightly altered." 

Low Modification The valued landscape character "appears 

moderately altered." 

Very Low Maximum Modification The valued landscape character "appears 

heavily altered." 

The landscape character of an area should embody the physical as well as the cultural attributes of a 

place. “Scenic attractiveness measures the scenic importance of a landscape based on human 

perceptions of the intrinsic beauty of landform, water characteristics, vegetation pattern, and cultural 

land use” (USDA Forest Service, 1995c, I-14). 
Chapter 3 

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3-188 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

The analysis looks at the existing scenic condition for the portions of the analysis area with proposed 

management activities. It then addresses how the action would modify the scenic condition and 

whether it would improve or degrade the site regarding the visual resource standard of the desired 

level of scenic quality (VQO or Scenic Integrity) for the area. 

Areas of visual significance can be assessed within the broad landscape descriptions. These areas 

of visual significance are assessed from specific points along travelways and/or use areas. 

Affected Environment 

The present main access to the analysis area is the Fortine Creek Road, Forest Road 36, which 

connects to US Highway 93 east of the town of Trego. This road is paved and generally runs north to 

south along the analysis area’s western boundary. The rest of the area’s road system branches out 

from this road to the east into the upper reaches of Fortine Creek’s tributaries. These roads access 

existing timber harvest units throughout the analysis area. 

The cultural land use of the area, timber management, is present in the scenery. The overall scenic 

integrity of the moderately sloped rolling hillsides is low meaning that the valued landscape character 

“appears moderately altered.” In VQO terms, it falls under modification, again as an overall 

evaluation of the analysis area. This meets the Forest Plan direction as shown in Table 3-51 below 

which reveals that 97 percent of the MAs within the Trego Analysis Area have maximum modification 

as the primary direction or as an acceptable direction for the VQO. 

Table 3-51. Forest Plan Scenic Resource Standards Associated with Management Areas 

MA Acres VQO Standard SMS Equivalent 

11 2053 Maximum Modification/Modification/Partial 

Retention Very Low/Low/Moderate 

12 3 Maximum Modification/Modification/Partial 

Retention Very Low/Low/Moderate 

13 1941 Maximum Modification/Modification/Partial 

Retention Very Low/Low/Moderate 

15 10,102 Maximum Modification Maximum Modification 

16 499 Modification Modification 

21(Other) 17 Retention High 

24 161 Maximum Modification/Modification/Partial 

Retention Very Low/Low/Moderate 

The Forest Plan direction for Scenic Resources in MAs 11, 12, 13, and 24 provides a range of VQO 

standards. This leaves the determination of the appropriate VQO as a choice dependent upon the 

visual significance of the specific area being affected. In MAs 11 and 12, this range of standards can 

still be disregarded if meeting them would conflict with accomplishing the overall goal of the MA. 

Areas of visual significance within the Trego Analysis Area include Forest Service Roads 36, 865, 

3780, 3730, 3732, and 3606. These would all be considered secondary travelways and use areas 

due to the local importance of these roads including recreation and tourism. Bear Paw Lake would 

be an area of visual significance that would need to be considered. 

The visual resource standards meet Forest Plan direction for each MA. 

Environmental Consequences 

Direct and indirect effects on Scenic Resource are described below for proposed activities identified 

in Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered for all past, proposed, current, and reasonable 

foreseeable activities listed and described in Chapter 1 and are described at the end of this section. 
Scenic

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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-189 

The following three tables show the breakdown of proposed activity acres by MA. 

Table 3-52. Acres of Activity Treatment by MA – Alternative B 

Activity MA 11 MA 12 MA 13 MA 15 MA 16 MA 21 MA 24 Total 

Acres 

Regeneration 

Harvest 4 0 0 386 0 0 0 390 

Uneven Aged 

Management 

Harvest 

0 0 0 48 0 0 0 48 

Intermediate 

Harvest 353 0 0 581 35 0 45 1014 

Fuels Treatment 

with Manipulation 43 0 0 132 0 7 0 182 

Ecosystem 

Burning 31 0 0 680 19 0 0 730 

Total Acres 431 0 0 1827 54 7 45 2364 

Table 3-53. Acres by Activity Treatment by MA – Alternative C 

Activity MA 11 MA 12 MA 13 MA 15 MA 16 MA 21 MA 24 Total 

Acres 

Regeneration 

Harvest 4 0 0 295 0 0 0 299 

Uneven Aged 

Management 

Harvest 

0 0 0 48 0 0 0 48 

Intermediate 

Harvest 150 0 0 546 35 0 22 753 

Fuels Treatment 

with Manipulation 0 0 0 132 0 7 0 139 

Ecosystem 

Burning 31 0 0 408 19 0 0 458 

Total Acres 185 0 0 1429 54 7 22 1697 

Table 3-54. Acres by Harvest Activity by MA – Alternative D 

Activity MA 11 MA 12 MA 13 MA 15 MA 16 MA 21 MA 24 Total 

Acres 

Regeneration 

Harvest 

4 0 0 660 11 0 0 675 

Uneven Aged 

Management 

Harvest 

0 0 0 48 0 0 0 48 

Intermediate 

Harvest 

353 0 0 661 23 0 45 1082 

Fuels Treatment 

with Manipulation 

43 0 0 132 0 7 0 182 

Ecosystem 

Burning 

31 0 0 680 19 0 0 730 

Total Acres 431 0 0 2181 53 7 45 2717 
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3-190 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

All three alternatives contain all of the different types of vegetative and fuel management activities 

proposed. Unit locations, acreage, and shape vary by alternative. In general, the Uneven Aged 

Management and Intermediate Harvest activities would be beneficial to the scenic quality of the 

Trego Analysis Area by helping to merge the previous harvest units into the landscape by softening 

the edges and creating more of a blended mosaic rather than a patchwork quilt. The Fuels 

Treatment with Manipulation and Ecosystem Burning activities would be visually negative for the 

short term but positive for the long term. 

All three alternatives propose 53 acres of vegetation and fuels management within Management 

Area (MA) 16. MA 16 is managed for timber but also strives to provide a pleasing view. This MA 

occurs in the foreground to mid-ground of well traveled, but secondary travel corridors. Forest Road 

36 which is located along the west side of the analysis area is the secondary travel corridor that all of 

MA 16 is located along. 

Table 3-55. Activity Acres by Alternative 

Alternative Regeneration 

Harvest 

Uneven 

Aged 

Management 

Intermediate 

Harvest 

Fuels 

Treatment with 

Manipulation 

Ecosystem 

Burning 

Total 

Acres 

B 390 48 1014 182 730 2364 

C 299 48 753 139 458 1697 

D 675 48 1082 182 730 2717 

ALTERNATIVES B AND C 

Alternatives B and C propose the same number of regeneration units in the same locations but of 

different sizes, 390 and 299 acres respectively. None of these units are in MA 16. Regeneration 

harvest prescriptions would retain more leave trees than what have been left in past harvest units 

(See Design Criteria, Table 2-10). This increase would create more of a blended transition than what 

currently exists and would not be as visually evident as previous regeneration harvest units. No 

significant effect on the visual resource would occur because of this alternative. 

ALTERNATIVE D 

Alternative D contains four additional units not found in the other two alternatives. Two of these are 

regeneration harvests and two are intermediate harvests. Alternative D also proposes 285 and 376 

more acres of regeneration harvest than Alternatives B and C respectively. Regeneration Unit #36 

is in MA 16, it is buffered from the viewing corridor along Road 36 by the railroad track. Although this 

alternative would have the most affect on the viewing resource, there would still be no significant 

effect. 

ALTERNATIVE A – NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

The area would generally remain as it is visually. Slowly, over time, the growth of the harvest units 

would start to blend the harsh lines that currently exist between different treatments. Natural 

processes such as fire, insects, and disease would all contribute to the visual landscape. The effect 

of the natural processes would play upon each other. For example, disease would affect the severity 

of a fire because fuel loading in the analysis area would increase over time without harvest. The 

increase in severity could result in a greater visual impact than the proposed units themselves. 
Scenic

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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-191 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ALTERNATIVES 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Scenic Resources Project File, considers and 

describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonable foreseeable activities 

listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on Scenic 

Resources are not included in this section. Those activities that cumulatively affect the resource will 

be discussed below. 

There are no activities or actions that are expected to have a measurable effect to Scenic 

Resources. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

All alternatives would be consistent with the Forest Plan for Scenic Resources. 
Chapter 3 

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3-192 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

Lands 

Analysis Area 

The area analyzed for potential effects of the activities on Lands and Special Uses is all National 

Forest System Lands within the Trego Analysis Area. 

Description of Measurement Indicators 

Each type of Special-Use Authorization within the analysis area and the number of permits per 

authorization will be considered regarding the effects of the proposed activities on Special Uses. 

A special-use authorization is a legal document such as a permit, term permit, lease, or easement, 

which allows occupancy, use, rights, or privileges of National Forest System NFS) land. The 

authorization is granted fro a specific use of the land for a specific period of time (USDA Forest 

Service, Undated Brochure). 

Affected Environment 

Review of District records revealed the following information regarding Land Status and Special Use 

permits at this time. 

Boundary Line Status

Dates of all posted land line boundaries common between National Forest Lands and Private in the 

Trego Analysis Area are as follows: 

T34N R25W

Sec 20: 1995 

Sec 29: 1983 

Sec 30: 1984 

Sec 31: 1984 

Sec 32: 1984 

T33N R26W

Sec 1: 1984, 1985 

Sec 12: 1984, 1985 

Sec 13: 1984 

Sec 14: 1981, 1984 

Sec 21: 1980, 1981 

Sec 22: 1980 

Sec 23: 1980, 1993 

Sec 24: 1984, 1993 

Sec 25: 1981, 1993 

Sec 26: 1981, 1993 

Sec 27: 1980, 1981, 1982 

Sec 35: 1981, 1982, 1993 

Sec 36: 1993 

T33N R25W 

Sec 6: 1987 

Sec 7: 1987 
Lands

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-193 

Special Use Permits/Easements:

• Pending Easement – Forest Road, Dan Casazza, portions of Roads 3732, 3730, 3762, 

and 3762A leading to private property located in the SW1/4NW1/4, Section 25, T33N, 

R26W. 

• Easement – Private Road, Leland Mocko (Jim Creek Acres). Road 3762C located in the 

NW1/4NW1/4, Section 24, T33N R26W. 

• Easement – Forest Road, Stewart Bend RUA, Road 3762B located in NW1/4SW1/4, 

Section 13 and NE1/4SE1/4 Section 14, T33N R26W leading to private property. 

• Special Use Permit – Forest Road, Sunday Creek Ranch. Road 851 located in 

N1/2SE1/4NE1/4, Section 36, T34N, R26W and NW1/4 Section 31, T34N, R25W 

leading to private property. 

• Special Use Permit – Lincoln Electric overhead power line runs through a majority of the 

analysis area, all above ground and in most cases follows BN track. There are also 

underground power lines that accesses a number of private land parcels. 

• Special Use Permit – Interbel underground communication line accesses a number of 

private land parcels. 

• Special Use Permit – Burlington Northern (BN) main line track runs the full length of the 

northwest side of the analysis area. They have a Right-of-Way (ROW), 100 feet off 

center, along this entire section of track. They also have ROW on the Forest Service 

Roads that the line crosses. 

• Outfitter and Guide – Currently two consumptive permits, administered by Rexford 

Ranger District, have user days in the Trego Analysis Area. 

Environmental Consequences 

Direct and indirect effects on lands are described below for proposed activities identified in Chapter 

2. Cumulative effects were considered for all past, proposed, current, and reasonably foreseeable 

activities listed and described in Chapter 1 and are described at the end of this section. 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

The proposed actions of greatest concern for the lands resource are those involving road 

management. Other actions that would fall upon the physical location of current or proposed special 

uses would also be of concern. 

All action alternatives contain the same amount of miles of classified and unclassified roads 

proposed for road decommissioning. The 12.47 total miles of road proposed for decommissioning is 

comprised of 3.32 miles of classified roads and 9.15 of unclassified roads. It is reasonable to assume 

that there would be no applications requesting the use of these roads to gain access to private land 

or as utility right of ways (ROW) due to the proximity of these roads to private land. Thus there is no 

effect on the lands resource. 

All of the following actions would be beneficial to the lands resource. They would resolve current land 

issues by consolidating access and utility needs, resolving safety issues, and gaining access to 

isolated National Forest System land. 

All action alternatives contain the same number of roads, 1.1 miles, proposed to permit utility cable 

to be buried along them either through a Special Use Permit or an easement if requested. This was 

anticipatory in its development and is beneficial to the lands resource by resolving the need for 

utilities for at least three different areas. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-194 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 

An earthen barrier is proposed for removal from blocking access from private land onto a National 

Forest System Road for a secondary residential emergency access. 

The proposal includes pursuing easements through State Land and private landowners to obtain 

legal right-of-way to two different isolated Forest Service parcels. 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Alternative A-No Action 

This alternative would require that the Forest Service do separate analyses when individual permits 

are applied for. Although analyses are grouped when possible, no relief would occur and the current 

overload of work compared to budget in the lands department on the District would continue. The 

response to the public’s requests would not improve. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ALTERNATIVES 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Lands Project File, considers and describes 

proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in 

Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively affect the resource will be discussed below. Current and 

reasonably foreseeable actions are management activities or projects planned or ongoing by the 

Forest Service, Lincoln County, and the public in or near the analysis area, which would occur 

regardless of which alternative is selected for implementation within the next 10 years. 

The current private land parcel sizes within the Trego Area range from 1 acre to 160 acres. The 

current trend in land development is subdividing which would naturally increase the need for access 

and utilities. It does not in this case translate to a need for more Special Use Permits in the Trego 

Analysis Area. This is due to three items. First, when the private land is orientated in a contiguous 

strip, as it is along the west side of the analysis area, access and utility needs are accommodated 

through other private property. Second, most isolated parcels not able to gain access or utilities via 

other private property already have permits with the Forest Service. Finally, this project’s proactive 

proposal resolves many of the remaining utility and access issues. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

All alternatives would be consistent with the Forest Plan for the Lands Resource.
Minerals

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-195 

Minerals 

Analysis Area

The analysis area for potential effects of the proposed activities on Minerals includes all National 

Forest System Land within the Trego Analysis Area. 

Description of Measurement Indicators 

Any quarries within the analysis area will be considered regarding the effects of the proposed 

activities on them. 

Affected Environment 

There are four developed and one potential source gravel pits/quarries in the Trego Analysis Area. 

 

• D3-6 Lime Cr. Quarry (potential) SESE Sec 5 T33N R25W 

• D3-7 Stewart Cr. Pit SWNW Sec 20 T33N R25W 

• D3-8 Jim Cr. Pit NWNW Sec 30 T33N R25W 

• D3-32 Jim Cr. Quarry SWNE Sec 2 T32N R26W 

• D3-27 Brimstone Cr. Pit NESE Sec 32 T34N R25W 

Only Forest Service use is permitted with the above Quarries and Pits. They are used primarily for 

road building and repairs. The use of the pit mirrors the level of road building on National Forest 

System Lands on the Fortine Ranger District that is within and outside of the analysis area. The 

amount of material for road repairs is relatively low but consistent over time. It is estimated that 

110,000 tons of material has been taken from these four areas over the last 25 years. Future annual 

volume of material estimated for the future would range from 50-1500 tons per pit a year for 

maintenance work that is dependent upon funding. Special projects may occur, using additional 

material. 

There are no Forest Service pits or quarries available in this analysis area for public use. 

Over the past five years there has not been any mining activity in the analysis area and none is 

expected. 

Environmental Consequences 

Direct and indirect effects on Minerals are described below for proposed activities identified in 

Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered for all past, proposed, current, and reasonably 

foreseeable activities listed and described in Chapter 1 and are described at the end of this section. 

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

All action alternatives propose 3.52 miles of additions to the National Forest System Roads (NFSR). 

The road miles to be added are not from new construction but from roads existing on the ground but 

not part of the NFSR. The 3.52 miles of additions would be added to the NFSR with yearlong 

restrictions. Roads with yearlong restrictions have minimal maintenance performed and thus would 

not cause a measurable effect on the mineral resources. 

All action alternatives also propose to resurface 3.8 miles of the Jim Creek Road 3730. The local 

stockpiles of aggregate would be exhausted with this resurfacing. Gravel would need to be crushed 

for material to accomplish future resurfacing. The source material to be crushed is available through 

the existing pits/quarries in the Trego Analysis Area. 
Chapter 3 

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3-196 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

There would be little change to the existing condition if the No-Action Alternative were selected. 

Uses of the existing Forest Service quarries are not exclusive to projects in the Trego Analysis Area 

and some utilization of the stockpiled aggregate would occur. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Minerals Project File, considers and describes 

proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities listed in 

Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively affect the resource will be discussed below. 

Although the use of source material to make aggregate for maintenance of roads within and outside 

of the analysis area would continue to deplete the four active pits/quarries in the analysis area, the 

current active and planned pits/quarries are expected to handle the past, present, and expected 

demand. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

All alternatives would be consistent with the Forest Plan for the Minerals Resource. 
Cultural Resources

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-197 

Cultural Resources 

Analysis Area 

The bounds of this analysis is the Trego Analysis Area as described in the introduction to this 

document. The area analyzed for cultural resources includes all Kootenai National Forest lands 

which may be affected by project activities associated with any of the alternatives being considered. 

This "area of potential effect" is the immediate areas where project activities may directly or indirectly 

affect significant cultural resources or their setting. 

Description of Measurement Indicators 

Cultural resource measurement indicators are cultural resource sites and acres surveyed. Evaluation 

will include the nature of the cultural resource site and its eligibility status to the National Register of 

Historic Places. These indicators can show the density of cultural resource sites within a given area if 

we know the number of sites located and have surveyed a statistical sample of the acreage. 

These measurement indicators are important because cultural resource sites under the management 

of federal agencies are afforded special protection. Prior to initiating an undertaking, federal 

agencies must identify and evaluate any cultural resource sites that may be affected by the 

undertaking. Cultural resources, located during inventory, are recorded and their eligibility for the 

National Register of Historic Places resolved prior to ground disturbance. Sites that are determined 

by the Forest Service and the Montana State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) to be eligible 

warrant consideration as to project impacts. Project impacts are either avoided or adverse impacts 

mitigated. Analysis methods used in this section consist of a review and synthesis of all pertinent 

literature, records, and documentation available on the history and prehistory of the analysis area 

and surrounding area. 

Affected Environment 

To gain an understanding of the expected cultural resources within the analysis area, the District 

conducted a pre-field project overview by reviewing District and Forest historical records. During the 

summer of 2005, the Forest Service surveyed all of the proposed project areas for cultural 

resources. These cultural resource sites represent the prehistoric and historic time periods and 

document past human use of the forest. These sites may include evidence of: prehistoric activity; 

sacred areas that may provide a physical setting for legendary, religious or historical events; early 

routes of travel; settlement; railroads; logging; mining; and early Forest Service activity. Prehistoric 

site types include camps, rock art, culturally scarred trees, hunting blinds and rock shelters. Historic 

Euro-American site types consist of mining features, Forest Service lookouts and administrative 

structures, homesteads, roads, railroads, town sites, as well as the remains of trapping, trading and 

logging. 

Much of the research in Northwestern Montana has focused on the Koocanusa Reservoir within the 

Kootenai River Valley. Kootenai National Forest archaeologists have conducted most of the cultural 

resource surveys in the Trego Analysis Area, while private cultural resource contractors have 

performed several surveys for highway projects, land exchanges and public utility lines. To the east, 

Flathead National Forest archaeologists have surveyed neighboring Flathead National Forest lands. 

This listing constitutes most of the archeological research in the general area. 

There have been 42 previous cultural resource surveys conducted for various projects within the 

analysis area from 1978 to 2005. The results of 37 of these inventories have been negative while five 

resulted in the location of sites. The majority of the analysis area topography is typical of the lands 

surveyed within these 37 negative inventories indicating a low probability for cultural resource sites in 

much of the project area. Most of the areas of potential project effect lie on moderately steep slopes 

that have a relatively low probability of containing cultural resource sites. However, the ridge areas, 

areas along Fortine Creek and relatively flat areas have a moderate to higher probability for cultural 

resource sites. The five positive inventories are all located in a high probability area with four within 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-198 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

the same section. According to the project overview, 17 recorded sites are within or adjacent to the 

analysis area. All 17 of the sites are located within several sections in the high probability area. 

Fifteen of the sites are on KNF lands, one is on state land and one is on private land. The land use of 

the analysis area has been summarized from the results of these surveys plus local histories, maps, 

articles, and site information available in the Fortine Ranger District Cultural Resource files, as well 

as in consultation with the Confederated Salish Kootenai Tribes and the public. For more specific 

information regarding cultural resources please refer to the project file. 

Environmental Consequences 

Direct and indirect effects on cultural resources were considered for proposed activities. Cumulative 

effects were considered for all past, proposed, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities listed 

and described in Chapter 1 and are described below. 

 

ALTERNATIVES B, C, AND D 

Direct and Indirect Effects

The effects of these alternatives would be similar, varying in magnitude with the degree of grounddisturbing activity. Road construction, reconstruction and decommissioning, as well as timber harvest 

and site preparation activities have the greatest potential to disturb cultural resources. Project 

activities associated with increased access to an area also have the potential to affect cultural 

resources. Increased access would be a short-term effect during project activities because post 

project there would be a decrease in access with some roads planned for decommissioning. Prior to 

implementation of an alternative, site-specific investigation would locate and evaluate cultural sites, 

which have not been identified this time. Eligible sites found would be avoided, protected, or 

mitigated in accordance with the National Historic Preservation Act. Physical avoidance of cultural 

resources is standard procedure on the Kootenai National Forest. Avoidance is a cost-effective way 

to protect cultural resources from effects due to project impacts. In cases where avoidance is not 

feasible, criteria are designed in consultation with the SHPO to minimize adverse effects to the site 

(See Design Criteria, Table 2-10). The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes would be included 

in these discussions where sites associated with American Indian Heritage are involved. 

Any ground-disturbing activity has the potential to have an adverse impact on historic and prehistoric 

sites. Increased access to remote areas has the potential to have an indirect adverse impact due to 

possible vandalism and theft. Even though the management intent is to identify all cultural resource 

sites and avoid, protect, or mitigate them from proposed ground-disturbing activities, the potential 

exists for unidentified sites to be encountered and disturbed during project activity. Recognizing the 

difficulty of locating ephemeral American Indian sites with even the most intensive surveys, the 

Kootenai National Forest Timber Sale Contracts in Clause C6.24# provide that the Forest Service 

may unilaterally modify or cancel the contract to protect cultural resources, regardless of when they 

are identified. This procedure protects cultural resources encountered during project activities. Sites 

within contractual timber sale area boundaries can be eligible for Knudsen-Vandenburg Sale Area 

Improvement (KV-SAI) funds for site protection and developing interpretive opportunities where 

appropriate. Increased settlement and development has probably damaged or destroyed a number 

of sites. Some ground disturbing activity may affect undiscovered historic and prehistoric sites. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Cultural Resources Project File, considers and 

describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities 

listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively affect this resource will be discussed below. 

There would be no cumulative effects to cultural resources expected through the implementation of 

the proposed management activities associated with any of the alternatives. 
Cultural Resources

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-199 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

The Kootenai National Forest Plan, in accordance with Section 106 of the National Historic 

Preservation Act, requires the integration of cultural resource management into the overall multipleuse management of the forest. It also requires that cultural resource inventories be conducted for all 

ground-disturbing activities. It requires the District to consult with the Confederated Salish and 

Kootenai Tribes through the Tribal Liaison to inform the Tribes on proposed activities that may affect 

the tribally affiliated sites and/or treaty rights. The guidelines of the KNF Plan and the 2003 KNF 

Heritage Guidelines were recognized in the development of these alternatives. In addition, the laws, 

regulations, and policies that govern cultural resource protection on Federal lands are coordinated 

with the SHPO of Montana, who serves in an advisory capacity. The policies for the USFS and 

SHPO are generally consistent. 

All areas would be inventoried, according to the Kootenai National Forest Heritage Guidelines, prior 

to ground-disturbing activities, and all sites would be protected in accordance with KNF 

methodology, SHPO guidelines, Section 106 Regulations, and the KNF Guidelines outlined above. 

Implementation of these alternatives would be in compliance with the appropriate cultural resource 

guidelines and consistent with Kootenai National Forest Plan Standards (USDA, Forest Service, 

1987b, Appendix 19). 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-200 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Tribal Consultation 

Analysis Methods 

Federal guidelines direct federal agencies to consult with modern American Indian tribal 

representatives and traditionalists who may have concerns about federal actions that may affect 

religious practices, other traditional cultural uses, as well as cultural resource sites and remains 

associated with American Indian ancestors. 

Laws such as the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA) and the National Historic 

Preservation Act (NHPA) provide for consultation with affected Tribes when the physical remains 

may be affected by federal projects. The American Indian Religious Freedom Act (AIRFA) and 

Executive Order 13007 (EO 13007) direct federal agencies to consult with Tribes regarding the 

effect of federal projects on sites which are sacred to the tribal community. Interior Executive Order 

3175 (EO 3175) requires all federal agencies to carry out the trust responsibilities of the federal 

government, to assess the impacts of their actions on Indian trust resources and to consult with 

Tribes when impacts are identified. 

In addition to the federal laws affecting all modern tribal groups, the Kootenai, Salish and Upper 

Pend d’Oreille have rights under the Hellgate Treaty of 1855. This treaty allows them to hunt, fish 

and gather in all the usual places, which includes the entire Kootenai National Forest. 

The analysis area lies within the aboriginal territory of the Kootenai Tribe. The Confederated Salish 

and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) and the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho represent modern members of the 

Kootenai Tribe. The Salish also occasionally passed through the analysis area. The Salish are also 

represented by the CSKT. 

Analysis methods used in this section consist of consultation with the tribes who have been identified 

as having an interest in the analysis area. The concerns of the CSKT and the Kootenai Tribe of 

Idaho were solicited through project scoping. In addition, the CSKT has provided a Tribal Liaison to 

work in partnership with the Kootenai National Forest to review project proposals and provide Tribal 

input. Information obtained from the CSKT and Kootenai Tribe of Idaho is taken into account to 

assess impact to issues related to cultural sites, traditional plants, and other resources related to 

treaty rights. Information exchanged through consultation is considered confidential and follows the 

KNF and CSKT Communications Protocol. 

Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines 

American Indian Tribes are afforded special consideration under various federal statues including 

those listed below. The Indian Sacred Sites Executive Order 13007 of June 1996 directs Federal 

land managers to "(1) accomodate access to and ceremonial use of Indian sacred sites by Indian 

religious practitioners and (2) avoid adversely affecting the physical integrity of such sacred sites" 

and to "maintain the confidentiality of sacred sites" where appropriate. The American Indian 

Religious Freedom Act of 1978 preserves the inherent rights of American Indians "for freedom to 

believe, express and exercise" their traditional religions. The National Historic Preservation Act of 

1966 as amended through 1992 requires federal agencies take into consideration the effects of 

their activities on cultural properties, and provides for the participation of Indian tribes where there is 

the potential to affect sites identified as “Traditional Cultural Properties” or culturally significant to 

Americans Indians. The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990 

(NAGPRA) recognizes the rights of the Indian Tribes and American Indian organizations as 

caretakers of human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, and objects of cultural patrimony with 

which they can demonstrate a reasonable biological or cultural affiliation, and conveys to such 

groups the rights to decide upon the disposition of such items. 

In addition to the general federal statutes listed below, the Salish, Kootenai and Upper Pend 

d'Oreilles have rights under the Hellgate Treaty of 1855. The Forest Plan recognizes these treaty 
Tribal Consultation

Trego EA 

 Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-201 

rights on the Kootenai National Forest (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, pg V-4). These reserved rights 

include the "right of taking fish at all usual and accustomed places, in common with citizens of the 

Territory, and of erecting temporary buildings for curing; together with the privilege of hunting, 

gathering roots and berries, and pasturing their horses and cattle upon open and unclaimed land.” 

The federal government has responsibilities to Tribes under a government-to-government 

relationship to insure that the Tribes' reserved rights are protected. 

Affected Environment 

The analysis area is within the aboriginal territory of the Kootenai Tribe and was occasionally used 

by the Salish. Consultation with the CSKT and Kootenai Tribe of Idaho centered on the analysis 

area, but took into account any adjacent area that might be affected by the proposed alternatives. 

Environmental Consequences 

Several Tribal comments on the management activities proposed in the Trego Analysis Area have 

been received to date. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-202 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Range Resources 

The Range Resources section will discuss management direction, current conditions, and 

environmental consequences of the proposed alternatives on the Range Resources within the Trego 

Analysis Area. The Trego Analysis Area encompasses the entire Trego Allotment and a small portion 

of the Swamp/Fortine Allotment. 

Analysis Area 

The bounds of analysis for the Range Resources discussion will consider the entire Trego and 

Swamp/Fortine Allotments, however for the Swamp/Fortine Allotment, the analysis will primarily 

focus on that portion of the allotment that falls within the analysis area. 

Description of Measurement Indicators 

Approximately 25% of the Trego Analysis Area provides transitory range for cattle. Transitory range 

consists primarily of timbered stands that have been regenerated through a silvicultural prescription. 

Cattle grazing levels in regenerated stands decrease over time as young seedlings mature and 

restrict cattle access and their crowns reduce the availability of grasses and forbs. As the availability 

of transitory range changes through disturbance events and the passage of time, the analysis of 

effects will evaluate acres of planned disturbance activities in relation to transitory range that may 

become unavailable to cattle within this planning period (10 years). The availability of trailing or 

access routes will also be evaluated.

Affected Environment 

The Swamp-Fortine Allotment is the largest allotment on the Fortine Ranger District. Approximately 

7,000 acres (13%) of the allotment is located within the Trego Analysis Area. One permittee runs 

cattle on the Swamp/Fortine Allotment within the analysis area. This permittee grazes both the Trego 

Allotment (25 cow/calf pairs) and the Swamp/Fortine Allotment (5 cow/calf pairs which can increase 

to 13 as another permittee recently waived his Term Grazing Permit back to the government) under 

a temporary permit. Under a continuous use grazing system, cattle forage within the analysis area 

from June 5 until September 30 of each year as conditions allow. Total authorized use on National 

Forest Land within the analysis area is 67 Animal Unit Months (AUMs). Three range improvement 

structures currently exist within the analysis area. They include loading corrals at Fortine Creek and 

Jim Creek, and a water development up Sunday Mountain. These structures were constructed to 

enhance range management within the allotment. 

The Trego Allotment is comprised of the main allotment area and two pastures that are separated 

from the rest of the allotment by the Burlington-Northern Railroad right-of-way. Three permittees run 

cattle on the Trego Allotment. One permittee turns out 25 cow/calf pairs on the main allotment under 

a temporary permit from June 5 until September 30 of each year as conditions allow. Another 

permittee has a Term Grazing Permit for 4 cow/calf pairs on the Todd Pasture that is located at the 

mouth of Magnesia Creek. This pasture (72 acres) is fenced, and abuts the permittee's ranch. The 

third permittee has a Term Private Land Grazing Permit for 4 cow/calf pairs and a Term Grazing 

Permit for 10 cow/calf pairs. This permittee runs his cattle on the Calvert Pasture which is located at 

the mouth of Lime Creek. The Calvert Pasture is fenced (266 acres) and uses two cattle guards to 

control cattle movement in and out of the pasture. The pasture abuts the permittee's ranch, 40 acres 

of which is leased as part of the allotment. Both of these permittees also graze their cattle from June 

5 until September 30 of each year as conditions allow. Total authorized use for the three permittees 

on National Forest Land within the analysis area is 200 AUMs. Seven range improvement structures 

currently exist within the analysis area. They include: a loading corral located near Lime Creek; 

Calvert cattle guard; Brimstone waterhole; electric fence exclosure on Lime Creek, wood and wire 

exclosure around Brimstone Lake; the Todd Pasture fence; and the Calvert Pasture fence. These 

structures were constructed to enhance range management within the allotment. 
Range

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-203 

Please refer to Map 3-10 for location of allotments and pastures within the analysis area. 

Condition and Trends 

The South End Range Allotment EA and Decision Notice established permitted cattle use on both 

the Swamp/Fortine and Trego Allotments. The maximum permitted number of cow/calf pairs for the 

Swamp-Fortine Allotment was set at 337. Of this total, 13 cow/calf pairs currently graze within the 

analysis area. The maximum permitted number of cow/calf pairs for the Trego Allotment was set at 

63. Currently, 41 cow/calf pairs graze within the analysis area. The EA and DN set the grazing 

season to run from approximately June 5 through September 30. 

These allotments are managed using a continuous grazing system, where cattle are permitted to 

graze any part of the allotment during the season. Because of terrain, the analysis area is not 

conducive for pastures or rotational grazing systems, except for the Calvert and Todd Pastures. 

Cattle tend to herd together in small groups that change locations throughout the grazing season. 

Cattle graze throughout the analysis area, however grazing intensity varies with factors such as 

slope steepness, distance from roads and water and forage availability. Dense multistoried timber 

stands and timbered stands at far distances from roads tend to discourage or prevent cattle use. 

Cattle also avoid timbered areas located on slopes over 40%. The permittees place salt and move 

cattle to encourage forage utilization throughout the allotments. Two of the permittees include private 

land as part of the grazing allotment. 

Information provided by the South End Range EA identified that vegetative condition was good with 

an upward trend within the Swamp/Fortine Allotment and excellent with stable trend in the Trego 

Allotment. Vigor, composition and plant density are all good to excellent within the analysis area. Soil 

conditions were also noted to be good. 

There are a small number of permanent natural openings or parks within the analysis area. These 

openings are considered primary range (primary range is that part of the suitable livestock range that 

livestock naturally prefer or will use first). Other preferred grazing sites consist of openings created 

by timber harvest; road and skid trail construction, or fires that have been prescribed or occurred 

over the last 30 years. These forage areas are classified as transitory range. Grazing intensity in 

both primary and transitory range is influenced by accessibility and the availability of water. 

Unsuitable range consists of steep slopes (>40%) and dense multistoried stands of coniferous 

forests. Many of the timbered stands support pine grass that becomes unpalatable later in the 

grazing season. Therefore, grazing intensity in areas can vary seasonally. Cattle graze to some 

degree on approximately 80 percent of the analysis area. 

The amount of forage available over time, within the analysis area and allotment is dynamic. 

Forage availability changes as management activities or regeneration harvest provide early seral 

vegetation conditions (openings in timber stands) and conifer re-establishment shades out grasses 

and forbs. Recent openings tend to produce the most suitable and available forage. The highest 

level of use appears to be along roadways and meadow bottoms, which support an abundance of 

desirable forage species. 

Intensive cattle grazing during initial seedling establishment and development in newly regenerated 

harvest units can result in seedling damage or mortality. Continued intensive grazing in young 

regenerated harvest units can result in plantation failure. All existing regeneration harvest units within 

the analysis area have been certified as fully stocked. A small number of plantation units support 

young trees that are still susceptible to cattle damage (trees less than three feet in height). These 

units have been identified in the Design Criteria located in Chapter 2. District Range personnel are 

working with the permittees to minimize cattle damage in these units. 

The State of Montana has designated Fortine Creek and Lime Creek as Water Quality Limited 

Segments (WQLS). WQLS are water bodies where existing pollution controls are inadequate to 

attain and maintain water quality standards.The pollutant of concern is sediment derived from 

agriculture and silviculture. Although cattle grazing is one of many agricultural and silvicultural 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-204 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

practices contributing to water quality impairment, it is not a primary cause of this impairment. There 

are no known sites along Fortine Creek on National Forest Land within the analysis area where 

cattle are creating sediment problems. The permittee actively manages his cattle through salting, 

herding and fencing to minimize cattle use along Fortine Creek. 

The South End Range EA identified two sites (one in the lower Lime Creek drainage and the other in 

Middle Lime Creek wetland) where cattle have created localized riparian disturbances. A jack-leg 

fence was constructed around lower Lime Creek wetland last summer to keep cattle out of the 

wetland while facilitating wildlife movement. The other site will be protected and enhanced by piling 

slash, felling trees, hardening-off sites, constructing fence, range management or combinations 

thereof. Range Betterment funds will be used to complete the work. Any new sites identified through 

this planning effort would be evaluated and if determined, site specific treatment would be 

completed. In addition, herding and salting locations will be used to move cattle away from these 

sites. 

Because of topography and vegetation, existing riparian impacts, associated with cattle grazing, are 

localized. Steepened slopes, deadfall and dense stands of trees surround most streams, allowing 

cattle only sporadic access to riparian areas. However, timber harvest and roads near streams can 

remove many obstacles and provide cattle with palatable forage, water and easy travel routes in 

places that would otherwise be inaccessible. Cattle tend to congregate at these sites. The impacts of 

grazing on riparian communities are likewise concentrated at these sites. 

The analysis area also supports two sites identified as Management Area 21-Special Interest Areas. 

One is located outside of the allotments and is not directly affected by grazing. The other area is 

monitored through range administration to insure cattle grazing will not affect its associated resource 

values. 

Wildlife predation on cattle has not been a problem within the analysis area. There are no records of 

grizzly bear killing domestic livestock within the analysis area. There has been one incident where a 

local rancher (private land within the analysis area) reported that a calf had been killed by wolves. 

Investigation of the incident by Fish and Wildlife Services could not verify that wolves had killed the 

calf. There are no known wolf depredations on permitted cattle within the analysis area. 

Environmental Consequences 

The analysis area is large enough to evaluate direct, indirect, and cumulative effects on range 

resources from proposed activities. The effects of the proposed activities on range resources were 

analyzed using measurement indicators identified above. These measurement indicators include 

changes in the availability of transitory range and access/trailing routes. 

Direct, indirect, and cumulative effects were considered for all current and reasonably foreseeable 

activities listed and described in Chapter I and other resource opportunities identified in Chapter 2. 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet located in the Range Project File evaluates the effects of these 

activities on the Range Resources. Those activities that had a measurable effect on the range 

resources were included at the end of this section. 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

Timber harvest activities generally have a minimal effect on livestock trailing or grazing. However 

timber management involving stand regeneration may result in limiting traditional livestock access 

routes or alter normal grazing patterns until young trees reach a height of three feet. Timber harvest 

and prescribed burning generally increases the amount and vigor of grasses and forbs that cattle 

forage on. No alternative proposes new road construction. Therefore trailing would not be influenced 

by new road construction. 

All action alternatives would require that the permittee manage livestock to reduce impacts to 

disturbed sites and existing plantations as identified in the Design Criteria (Table 2-10). 
Range

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-205 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Table 3-56 displays the estimated number of vegetation treatment acres proposed within the 

analysis area by alternative. 

Table 3-56. Treatment Acres by Alternative 

Alternative Regeneration 

Harvest (acres) 

Intermediate 

Harvest (acres) 

Acres treated through 

prescribed burning 

A (No Action) 0 0 0 

B 390 1062 730 

C 299 801 458 

D 675 1130 730 

Alternative A 

Within the Trego Analysis Area, the management of the Trego and Swamp-Fortine Allotments would 

continue as in the past for the next 10 years. No timber harvest would occur with this alternative so 

existing access and trailing routes, and salt placement locations would be unaffected. Plantations 

from past timber harvest activities where livestock use is restricted, would remain in effect until 

conifer seedlings reach an average height of 3 feet. 

Forage production within the analysis area would not be improved through vegetation management 

activities (timber harvest and prescribed burning). The amount of transitory range would decrease by 

approximately 2300 acres as conifer encroachment in older harvest units would reduce the 

availability of grasses and forbs for cattle. The trailing of cattle throughout the analysis area is not 

expected to change as new forage sites or trails would not be created. 

The exclusion of fire would increase the risk of stand-replacement fire within the analysis area. A 

major fire within the allotment could, in the short term, affect the availability of the allotment to be 

used by cattle. However in the long term, a major fire would improve the availability of transitory 

range. 

Alternative B 

This action alternative is not expected to limit or significantly change current range management 

activities. 

There have been numerous timber harvest activities within the analysis area over the last 50 years 

(Refer to Chapter 1). More recent stand regeneration harvest (regenerated in the last 35 years) is 

providing, transitory grazing opportunities for livestock. Transitional rangelands are lands which 

produce forage or have inherent forage producing capabilities and can become available on a 

temporary basis as a result of partial or complete removal of the vegetation through fire, logging or 

other events (Forest Service Manual 2210.5). As the conifers in these regenerated stands mature, 

the nature of the transitory range changes from pure transitional rangeland to that which mimics 

naturally occurring forested rangelands. 

Over the last five decades (1950-2000), an average of approximately 1000 acres of forested habitat 

has been regenerated per decade. The lowest number of acres regenerated by decade occurred in 

the 1950’s (117) while the largest number occurred in the 1970’s (2278). This alternative would 

increase the amount of transitory range through both regeneration and intermediate harvest 

prescriptions. 

With increased emphasis on fuel treatment, most all of the stands that are proposed to be treated 

through intermediate harvest would also be managed to reduce the amount of ground and ladder 

fuels. Consequently much of the stand structure would become more open grown and the availability 

of grasses and forbs would increase. These treated timber stands are expected to provide transitory 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-206 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

range for cattle. Therefore, Alternative B would create 1062 acres of transitory range through 

intermediate silvicultural prescriptions and fuels reduction activities. This alternative would also 

regenerate 390 acres. In consideration of transitory range created by both regeneration and 

intermediate harvest and fuel treatment, the amount of transitory range created by this alternative 

would exceed the decade average by approximately 500 acres. The availability and vigor of forage 

species would also be improved through prescribed burning of 730 acres. 

Regenerated timber stands would provide forage for cattle until young trees start shading out 

grasses and limit cattle access, which generally occurs 30 to 35 years after stand initiation. 

Approximately 25% of the analysis area currently provides transitory range. This alternative would 

provide for a continuum of transitory range over the next ten years within both the Trego and 

Swamp/Fortine Range Allotments. 

As no roads would be constructed, this alternative would not increase the risk of cattle causing 

localized riparian disturbance in association with roads built in riparian habitat. 

Proposed road closures (decommissioning, storage, and yearlong) are not anticipated to significantly 

affect cattle trailing within the analysis area. Cattle would continue to forage and travel along these 

roads. 

Although cattle are expected to spend more time in and around proposed treatment areas, there 

would be no major shifts in cattle movement or distribution with this alternative. The permittee is 

required to move his cattle throughout the allotment, not overgraze areas, and insure that other 

resources within the allotment are maintained.This alternative would require that the permittee 

manage livestock to reduce impacts to new proposed plantations (regeneration harvest units) and 

disturbed riparian sites as identified in the Design Criteria (Table 2-10). Foreseeable range 

improvement work including the installation of a water trough near Lime Creek and additional fence 

work around the upper Lime Creek wetland would help reduce cattle grazing in these sensitive 

areas. 

Proposed activities that occur during the grazing season (6/5 to 9/30) may cause localized 

disruptions in grazing patterns. Proposed activities under this alternative would have minor effects on 

the management of either the Trego or Swamp/Fortine Allotments. Effects from proposed activities 

on livestock grazing and management are not expected to increase the risk of cattle depredation by 

predators. Range improvement structures that are located near harvest units would be protected 

under the timber sale contract. 

Alternative C 

This alternative is not expected to limit or change current livestock management activities. Proposed 

activities would affect cattle grazing and management similar to that described under Alternative B. 

This alternative would create 1100 acres of transitory range (regeneration and intermediate harvest) 

and prescribe burn 458 acres. The amount of transitory range created by this alternative would 

exceed the decade average by approximately 100 acres. 

This alternative proposes the same road decommissioning/restrictions as proposed under 

Alternative B. The effect of road decommissioning/restrictions on cattle trailing would be similar to 

those described for Alternative B. Foreseeable range improvement work including the installation of 

a water trough near Lime Creek and additional fence work around the upper Lime Creek wetland 

would help reduce cattle grazing in these sensitive areas. 

Alternative D 

This alternative is not expected to limit or change current range management activities. Proposed 

activities would affect cattle grazing and management similar to that described in Alternative B. This 

alternative would create 1805 acres of transitory range (regeneration and intermediate harvest) and 

prescribe burn 730 acres. The amount of transitory range created by this alternative would almost 
Range

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-207 

double the decade average. With this increase in available forage, there may be opportunity to 

increase the number of cattle that could graze within the analysis area on a temporary basis. 

This alternative proposes the same road decommissioning/restrictions as proposed under 

Alternative B. The effect of road decommissioning/restrictions on cattle trailing would be similar to 

those described for Alternative B. Foreseeable range improvement work including the installation of 

a water trough near Lime Creek and additional fence work around the upper Lime Creek wetland 

would help reduce cattle grazing in these sensitive areas. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ALTERNATIVES 

Past road construction projects, tree harvest, prescribed burning and fire suppression, as described 

in Chapter 1 and natural events have created the existing vegetative conditions for the range 

resources. 

The project file identifies all past, current, and reasonably foreseeable actions within the analysis 

area. Those activities that cumulatively contribute indiscernible effects on range resources are not 

included in this section but are discussed in the Range Cumulative Effects Worksheet. Those 

activities that cumulatively affect the range resources are discussed below. 

Vegetation Management: Past timber sales within the analysis area are providing much of the 

existing forage for cattle that are permitted on the allotments. Timber stands that have been 

regenerated since 1970 are currently providing transitory range. With the current Douglas-fir bark 

beetle infestation, there is the potential for additional small salvage timber sales. Salvage sales and 

associated activities can modify stand structure to improve growing conditions for grasses and forbs. 

One current timber sale project (Tree-Mag) is being implemented using intermediate harvest to thin 

overstocked stands. Fuel reduction would be accomplished through mechanical piling with 

associated pile burning.Two current timber harvest projects (Magnesia Douglas-fir Beetle and Jim 

Stew Douglas-fir Beetle Sales) are being implemented in response to the recent Douglas-fir bark 

beetle infestation. Post harvest activities include lop and scattering of slash. Direct and indirect 

effects from these ongoing activities were discussed in their associated BA’s and BE’s. A 

foreseeable vegetation management proposals include a small sale (White Creek DFB) in response 

to the Douglas-fir bark beetle infestation. 

Salvage activities would follow Forest Plan direction. It is expected that there will be some Blowdown 

salvage. Treatment acres are not expected to exceed 40 acres over the next 10 years and activities 

would follow the Forest-wide Blowdown Salvage DN/FONSI direction. Ongoing and reasonably 

foreseeable salvage harvest and associated activities within the Trego Analysis Area would 

cumulatively contribute minor localized increases in the availability and quality of forage for cattle. All 

reasonable foreseeable activities would have minor effects on cattle grazing and indiscernible effects 

on cattle movement. 

There are no ongoing timber sales on State land within the analysis area. However there is potential 

that the State would conduct salvage operations on approximately 833 acres. Ongoing timber 

harvest on private land includes both regeneration and selective silvicultural prescriptions. Private 

and State land represent approximately 33 percent of the Trego Analysis Area. In review of aerial 

photos and the average rate of past timber harvest, it is expected that 279 acres of regeneration 

harvest would occur on private land over the next 10 years. Over the next 10 years, 24 new 

residential sites are expected to be built within the analysis area. Associated with these new 

residential sites is approximately 6 miles of new road construction. As the allotment includes a very 

small amount of private or State land leases, cattle are generally herded away from these areas, 

especially if resource conflicts arise. Potential effects to range resources from ongoing timber 

harvest and road construction activities on private land would be minimal. 

The other portion of the Swamp-Fortine Allotment lies within the Swamp and Fortine Analysis areas. 

The recent completion of the Swamp and Fortine EIS ‘s would provide a continuum of regeneration 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-208 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

harvest units within those portions of the allotment. However, the permittee which operates within the 

Trego Analysis Area would not be directly affected by the implementation of the Swamp and Fortine 

EIS’s. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK 

All alternatives would be consistent with the Forest Plan for the rangeland resource. Grazing within 

respective MAs would be managed to meet Forest Plan direction (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, III-1 

through 126). Cattle use within Management Area 21 would be monitored and managed to maintain 

the resource values of these sites. There are no irreversible or irretrievable commitments to forest 

resources. 

Expected grazing and range management within the Trego Analysis Area is not expected to prevent 

the State of Montana from removing Fortine Creek and Lime Creek off their list of impaired streams 

(WQLS). 

Continued grazing within the analysis area will comply with ESA direction by not creating resource 

conflicts with grizzly bear or wolves. 
Transportation

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-209 

Transportation 

The Trego Roads Analysis and Travel Analysis (Dec. 2005) were completed in conjunction with the 

Trego EAWS Analysis. The Roads Analysis is a separate document and is an interdisciplinary 

analysis of the existing road system. The Travel Analysis designates routes, trails or areas open for 

various means of public travel. A summary of the results of the Roads Analysis and Travel Analysis 

is included below. For the detailed road-by-road analysis, please refer to the Trego Roads Analysis 

and Travel Analysis document located in the Trego EA Project File. 

Regulatory Framework 

The Trego Roads Analysis was completed to comply with 36 CFR Part 212 Administration of the 

Forest Transportation System Final Rule and with the Forest Service Transportation Administrative 

Policy FSM Chapter 7700, both published January 12, 2001. The final rule is intended to help ensure 

that additions to the National Forest System road network are those deemed essential for resource 

management and use; that construction, reconstruction and maintenance of roads minimize adverse 

environmental impacts; and that unneeded roads are decommissioned and restoration of ecological 

processes are initiated. The policy removes emphasis on transportation development and adds a 

requirement for science-based transportation analysis. This science-based analysis process is 

spelled out in the USDA Forest Service Miscellaneous Report FS-643, Roads Analysis: Informing 

Decisions about Managing the National Forest Transportation System (8/99). 

On December 9, 2005, a new final rule for 36 CFR Parts 212, 251, 261 and 295 went into effect and 

addresses travel management and designation of routes for motor vehicle use. This rule directs the 

development of a Motor Vehicle Use Map for each Administrative Unit. Unfortunately, the Trego 

Roads Analysis was completed just before this new final rule went into effect. The Trego ID Team 

modified the Roads Analysis to include a Travel Analysis to meet the requirements of the new final 

rule. 

The Travel Analysis identified routes for designation as open for travel, including the times they are 

open and the type of vehicle use that would be allowed within the Trego Analysis Area. This will 

become a starting point for the District’s and Forest’s Travel Access Analysis ID Team that will be 

developing the Motor Vehicle Use Map. The Forest has four years from the 2005 date to produce 

this map. 

The new rule also issued new definitions that are included in the glossary appendix of the Trego 

Roads Analysis and Travel Analysis (December 2005). The main conflict with the definitions of the 

2001 Final Rule and the 2005 Final Rule is that classified and unclassified roads are no longer 

applicable. Because this analysis was completed using the 2001 definitions, those definitions will 

remain applicable to this EA. Changing the terminology in all completed documents of the Project 

File, Roads Analysis, Proposed Action Notice, and chapters of the EA to match the new Dec.9, 2005 

final rule would be a costly, time consuming, and futile effort that the Trego ID Team felt was 

unnecessary for the integrity of this EA. 

 

Therefore, for all purposes of this document, roads referred to as unclassified will be 

synonymous with the new definition for unauthorized roads; and classified roads will be 

synonymous with National Forest System Roads (NFSR), or authorized roads. 

Analysis Area 

The Trego Analysis Area is the boundary used for the Transportation analysis. All of the road 

networks are tributary to County Road 36. The only possible timber haul on National Forest System 

Roads outside the analysis area would be on Road 3605, down Road 3529 to Road 36 in the Fortine 

Analysis Area. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-210 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Description of Measurement Indicators 

Road miles are the measurement indicator used to assess the effects of the transportation system 

proposed in the alternatives. 

Affected Environment 

Within the Trego Analysis Area, there are approximately 163.1 miles of existing road. This total 

includes Private (42.4 miles), State (11.7 miles), County (8.5 miles) and Forest Service (100.5 miles) 

jurisdictions. National Forest System Roads comprise approximately 85.3 of these miles with 

approximately 22.1 miles open yearlong, 43.0 miles seasonally restricted and 20.2 miles restricted 

yearlong. Approximately 15.2 miles of road with Forest Service jurisdiction are unclassified roads. 

The following table displays information on the existing characteristics of the current Trego 

Transportation System. 

Table 3-57. Existing TregoTransportation System 

FEATURE ITEM MILES 

All Roads within the Trego Analysis Area 163.1 

Jurisdiction 

National Forest System Roads 

Unclassified Forest Roads 

County 

State Lands 

Private 

85.3 

15.2 

8.5 

11.7 

42.4 

Road Width 

10’ 

12’ 

14’ 

20’ 

36’ 

5.85 

112.40 

36.36 

0.81 

7.63 

Road Surfacing 

Native 

Aggregate 

Bituminous 

126.94 

27.30 

8.81 

Road Template 

Ditched 

Out-sloped 

Primitive 

125.06 

32.91 

5.08 

Lanes Single 

Double 

155.43 

7.62 

National Forest System Roads 85.29 

Functional Class 

(The way a road services land and 

resource management needs, and the 

character of service it provides.)

 Arterial 

Collector 

 Local 

0.68 

12.93 

71.68 

Traffic Service Level 

(Describes the significant 

characteristics and operating conditions 

of a road.)

A – Highest level of design characteristics 

& operating conditions 

B – Moderate level 

C – Low level 

D – Lowest level, single use road 

0.00 

0.68 

31.48 

53.13 

Critical Traffic 

4WD 

Pickup 

Service Truck 

Log Truck 

Low Boy 

0.83 

0.67 

0.48 

80.74 

2.57 
Transportation

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-211 

FEATURE ITEM MILES 

Objective Maintenance Levels 

(The maintenance level to be assigned 

at a future date considering future Road 

Management Objectives, traffic needs, 

budget constraints, and environmental 

concerns.) 

5 – Non-applicable 

4 – moderate comfort & speed 

3 – passenger car, low speed, minimal 

comfort 

2 – high clearance vehicles, low traffic 

1 – restricted yearlong 

0.00 

0.68 

30.29 

44.40 

9.92 

Miles of Road Subject to the 

Highway Safety Act Maintenance Levels 3,4, & 5 30.97 

Road Management 

Open Yearlong 

Restricted Seasonally (10/15-12/1) 

Restricted Seasonally (10/15-6/30) 

Restricted Yearlong 

Restricted Seasonally (7/1-11/30) 

22.06 

29.69 

8.84 

20.23 

4.47 

Unclassified (Unauthorized) Forest Service Roads 15.20 

Existing Management 

Open Yearlong 

Restricted Seasonally (10/15-12/1) 

Restricted Seasonally (10/15-6/30) 

Restricted Yearlong 

Restricted Seasonally (7/1-11/30) 

0.64 

2.73 

0.21 

11.62 

0.00 

State Lands Roads 11.66 

Existing Management Open Yearlong 

Restricted Yearlong 

2.77 

8.89 

A. Open Road Densities (ORDs) 

The ORD is 2.85 miles of road per square mile for National Forest System Lands (23.08 square 

miles) within the Trego Analysis Area. For all private lands (11.35 square miles) within the analysis 

area, the ORD is 5.1 miles of road per square mile. 

The Trego Analysis Area is comprised mainly of two Management Areas (MAs), MA 15 and MA 11. 

MA 15 management standards permit road densities of up to 3 miles per square mile. Currently the 

road density for MA 15 for the Trego Analysis Area is 2.64 miles per square mile. MA 11 

management standards state that motorized access is generally not permitted during the big game 

wintering period from December 1 through April 30 (Forest Plan Vol. 1, p. III-45). Currently, there are 

8.68 miles of open road in MA 11 during the winter season for an open road density of 2.71 miles 

per square mile. Approximately 5.99 miles of the 8.68 miles is used for private residential access, 

power line access, or ice fishing access on Bear Paw Lake. 

Currently, all five old growth (MA 13) blocks in the Trego Analysis Area have open roads adjacent to 

or bisecting the block. The ORD in MA 13 is currently 2.13. Main Roads 865 (1.22 miles), 3780 (0.68 

miles) and 3770 (2.51 miles) provide for the bulk of open roads in or adjacent to MA13. Other roads 

affecting MA 13 are 865D, 14252, 3731, 3731A,3732D, 14264 and 14265. 

B. Physical Condition of the Roads 

The overall condition of the existing NFSRs in the Trego Analysis Area is good. Best Management 

Practices (BMPs) have been performed on portions of the main roads, but have not been completed 

for the full length of most roads. The needed BMPs include adding culverts to relieve long ditch 

sections, installing additional surface drainage structures such as drain dips and surface water 

deflectors, and other minor work items; such as cleaning ditches and catch basins, reshaping outsloped roads, and placing geo-fabric and aggregate to bridge wet areas on roads. 

 

Aggregate surface replacement is needed on Roads 3730, 3732, 3770, 3780, and 865. Several pits 

and quarries are located in the area, but do not have adequate amounts of aggregate stockpiled. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-212 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Road maintenance is regularly performed on nearly 85% of the NFSR that are open yearlong or 

seasonally open for at least part of the year. Brushing, road grading, slough removal, and ditch 

cleaning are part of the regular maintenance schedule for these roads. Occasionally, the 

maintenance crew will perform BMPs. This usually involves adding culverts or drain dips to correct 

obvious drainage problems. 

C. Efficiency of the Road System 

In the Trego Roads Analysis, the ID Team evaluated the need for each road in the analysis area. Of 

the 34 unclassified roads, 6 roads were identified as needed as part of the long-term transportation 

system and are recommended to be added (reclassified) as NFSRs. These include Roads 14247 

(0.66 miles), 15173 (0.78 miles), 15824 (0.25 miles), 3771A (0.66 miles), 3772 (0.76 miles) and 

851B (0.41 miles). The current management for these roads has been with yearlong restrictions, 

except for Roads 15824 and 851B. The remaining unclassified roads were determined as no longer 

needed as part of the long-term system and are recommended for decommissioning. The sum of 

these is 9.15 miles, with 0.26 miles currently open, 2.37 miles under seasonal restrictions, and 6.52 

miles that are impassable to motorized vehicles due to vegetation. 

Seven National Forest System Roads were determined as not needed and are proposed for 

decommissioning. These are Roads 14250 (0.53 miles), 14251 (0.20 miles), 14273 (0.08 miles), 

865G (0.30 miles), 871C (0.34 miles), 3505B (1.07 miles), 3781A (0.21 miles), 3784 (0.41 miles), 

and 3787B (0.18 miles) totaling 3.32 miles. Currently, 0.39 miles of the above roads are managed 

as open, 0.42 miles are seasonal, and 2.51 miles are restricted yearlong or impassable to vehicles. 

With 9.15 miles of unclassified roads and 3.32 miles of NFSRs, the total miles identified for road 

decommissioning is 12.47 miles.

D. Road Access Management 

The National Forest System Roads in the analysis area are currently managed with: 

• 22.06 miles open yearlong to motorized vehicles 

• 29.69 miles restricted seasonally from Oct.15th to Nov. 30th, including snow vehicles 

• 8.84 miles restricted seasonally from Oct. 15th to June 30th, including snow vehicles 

• 4.47 miles restricted seasonally from July 1st to Nov. 30th, including snow vehicles 

• 20.23 miles restricted yearlong, allowing snow vehicles from Dec. 1st to April 30th

Environmental Consequences 

Several activities have been proposed in order to maintain and manage a cost-effective sustainable 

road system that meets present and future resource management needs, increases security for 

wildlife, insures safe access, and develops a Travel Access Management Plan for the Trego Analysis 

Area. 

As stated in Chapter 2, road management activities proposed in the analysis area include road 

maintenance, decommissioning, resurfacing, roads placed into intermittent stored service, road 

restrictions, and road re-classification. Additional activities also discussed include Travel Access 

Management, access to National Forest System lands, private and utility access and Trail 

Management. Trail management includes the addition of new trails to the National Forest Trail 

System. 

Please refer to Maps 2-5 thru 2-7 In Chapter 2 for a display of the access management proposed for 

the action alternatives. 
Transportation

Trego EA 

Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-213 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect 

Direct and indirect effects on the Transportation System are described below for proposed activities 

identified in Chapter 2. Cumulative effects were considered for all past, proposed, current, and 

reasonably foreseeable activities listed in Chapter 1 and are described at the end of this section. 

A detailed analysis of the impacts of roads on the Water Resources is contained in that section of 

this document. The impact of roads on the Wildlife Resource is addressed in the Wildlife Section of 

this document. 

A. Road Maintenance (BMPs) 

Road Maintenance: This is the ongoing upkeep of a road necessary to meet the approved Road 

Management Objectives (RMOs). The present focus of RMOs is to meet the current BMPs for each 

road. BMPs required under Timber Sale Contracts must be completed before timber is hauled. 

The objectives of road maintenance are to reduce the concentration of sub-surface and surface 

water runoff, minimize road surface erosion, filter ditch water before entering streams, and decrease 

the risk of culvert failures during peak runoff events. Maintenance work could include culvert 

installation, replacement of existing culverts with larger culverts, installation of drainage dips and 

surface water deflectors, placement of rip-rap to armor drainage structures, aggregate surface 

replacement, aggregate placement to reinforce wet surface areas, ditch construction and cleaning 

where needed, and surface blading to restore the drainage efficiency of the road surface. These 

actions would bring the roads up to current BMP standards, better accommodate traffic and reduce 

deferred maintenance needs. 

Alternatives B and C propose to implement BMPs needed for 45.68 miles of road as required 

under the Timber Sale contract specifications. This consists of BMPs on roads or portions of Roads 

15173, 15812D, 15815, 3605, 3606, 3718, 3718A, 3727, 3730, 3731, 3731A, 3732, 3732D, 3732F, 

3762, 3762A, 3762B, 3770, 3770A, 3770E, 3770F, 3771, 3771A, 3780, 3782, 3782A, 3783, 3787, 

865, 865E, 871, 871A and 871B. 

Alternative D proposes to implement BMPs on 47.86 miles of road as required under the Timber 

Sale Contract. In addition to the roads listed for Alternatives B and C, portions of Roads 3722F and 

865D are proposed for BMPs implementation in this alternative. 

Alternative D proposes the most miles of BMP implementation and would provide the greatest 

benefit to the transportation system. 

B. Road Decommissioning 

Road Decommissioning: Decommissioning removes roads from the landscape that are no longer 

needed for current or future resource management. The objective of decommissioning is to initiate 

restoration of ecological processes interrupted or adversely impacted by the unneeded road. 

Roadbeds are stabilized and restored to a more natural state. Natural drainage patterns that were 

interrupted when the roads were built are restored. The methods used for decommissioning are 

determined on a site-specific basis and could include: 

• Full re-contouring to restore the original ground slope 

• Partial re-contouring to fill ditches or remove unstable road shoulders 

• Removing culverts and other drainage structures 

• ripping the roadbed to reduce compaction 

• Installing water bars 

• Out-sloping the road prism 

• Seeding and fertilizing disturbed soil 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-214 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

• Or blocking the road entrance and abandoning the road to allow re-vegetation. 

Alternatives B, C, and D propose to: 

• decommission unneeded National Forest System Roads 14250, 14251, 14273, 865G, 

871C, 3605B, 3781A, 3784 and 3787B totaling 3.32 miles 

• decommission unclassified (unauthorized) roads 14246, 14252, 14253, 14255, 14257, 

14259, 14263, 14265, 15173A, 871D, 3722B, 3727A, 3730F, 3770B, 3770C, 3770G, 

3772A, 3780A, 3780B, 3780C, 3780D, 3781D, 3781F, 3781G, 3781H, 3784, 3784A, 

totaling 9.15 miles. 

The total proposed road decommissioning is 12.47 miles.

This action would provide for efficient access, help to meet the desired condition for the 

transportation system and reduce road maintenance costs. 

C. Road Resurfacing 

Alternatives B, C, and D proposed to use local stockpiles of aggregate in the Trego-Fortine 

Area to resurface the first 3.8 miles of the Jim Creek Road 3730. The total for road 

resurfacing is 3.8 miles. 

Resurfacing of Road 3770 would improve the efficiency and safety of the transportation system. The 

increased traffic during lay-down operations would produce negative short-term effects to the private 

residents that use the road. 

D. Intermittent Stored Service 

Alternatives B, C, and D propose to place the end portion of Road 3722 into intermittent stored 

service. Access is not needed on this portion of the road for the next 10 to 20 years. The total 

proposed for intermittent stored service is 0.44 miles. 

Roads continue to affect water quality and wildlife security, and incur maintenance costs even when 

restricted yearlong. Placing roads that are not needed for resource management purposes for the 

next 10-20 years into intermittent stored service can reduce these effects. Treatment activities for 

intermittent stored service would include removing culverts, restoring stream crossings and natural 

drainage patterns, out-sloping the road surface, installing water bars, and seeding and fertilizing the 

roadbed. The road prism would remain on the landscape. 

The advantage of placing a road in storage rather than decommissioning it is that the road remains 

on the NFS Roads Inventory. A decommissioned road is no longer a road, no longer on the NFSR 

inventory, and is not to be considered for future use. Placing the last portion of Road 3722 into 

intermittent stored service would reduce road maintenance costs. 

E. Additional Yearlong Road Restrictions 

Within MA 11: Alternatives B, C, and D, propose to restrict Roads 851A, 851B, 15824, 3771A, 

totaling 1.59 miles, yearlong to motorized vehicles, including snow vehicles, to meet Forest Plan 

Direction for MA 11 winter range. To meet MA 11 requirements, these roads could be restricted for 

the winter season only. However, these roads are short spurs of low recreational access value and 

the costs for installation, maintenance and administration of the gates is not warranted. It is more 

cost effective to install earthen barriers to restrict the roads yearlong. The proposed yearlong 

restrictions would reduce the open road density for MA 11 during the winter season from 2.7 ORD to 

2.2 ORD, greatly reducing the disturbance to big game animals in the winter range. Roads 851A, 

851B, and 15824 are currently open. Road 3771A has an earthen barrier that has been effectively 

restricting vehicle use. 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-215 

Within the Deer Subherd: In Alternatives B, C, and D, Roads 14247, 15173 and the last portion 

of 3606, totaling 1.98 miles, would be restricted yearlong (including snowmobiles) to reduce ORDs 

in the Trego Subherd Area. This would be in addition to the proposed yearlong restriction of Roads 

851A, 851B, 15824 and 3771A that are in both MA 11 and the Subherd. To meet winter range 

requirements, these roads could be restricted for the winter season only. However, these roads are 

short spurs of low recreational access value and the costs for installation, maintenance and 

administration of the gates is not warranted. It is more cost effective to install earthen barriers to 

restrict the roads yearlong. Roads 14247 and 3606 are currently open. An earthen barrier has been 

effectively restricting vehicle use on Road 15173. 

Alternative C also proposes to change the yearlong restrictions on roads within the Subherd 

boundary from Travel Code 9, which restricts motorized vehicle use yearlong but allows 

snowmobiles from December 1st to April 30th, to Travel Code 5, which restricts all motorized use 

yearlong including snowmobiles. Roads 14256, 3732A, 3762A, 3770A, 3781, 3781B, 3781C, and 

3787A would be changed in response to public comments and Forest Plan MA 11 direction. This 

would result in an additional 5.37 miles of road restricting snowmobile use within the Subherd. A 

total of 8.94 miles of road within the Subherd boundary would be restricted yearlong, including 

snow vehicles. 

Within or adjacent to Old Growth: Alternatives B, C, and D proposed to restrict Roads 865D, 

3731, and a portion of 3772, totaling 3.59 miles, yearlong to motorized vehicles but open to snow 

vehicles December 1st to April 30th to meet Forest Plan standards for MA 13 and help prevent cutting 

of snags. Road 865D is currently restricted seasonally July 1st to November 30th. Roads 3731 and 

3772 are currently restricted October 15th to November 30th. Alternative C proposes to restrict the 

last 0.02 miles of Road 3783 yearlong, including snowmobiles (Travel Code 5). 

In Alternatives B and D, a total of 7.16 miles of road are proposed to be restricted yearlong and 

added to the District Road Closure Order under 36 CFR 261.51; Alternative C proposes a total of 

7.18 miles of road to be restricted yearlong and added to the District Road Closure Order. 

The proposed road restrictions would help the transportation system meet Forest Plan direction to 

restrict any local roads that penetrate or run adjacent to designated old growth stands. Yearlong 

restrictions are proposed on all local roads that may affect old growth. 

The proposed yearlong road restrictions may affect those forest users who have traditionally used 

the roads. However, the proposal would help meet the transportation management goal of providing 

a balance between access benefits and environmental effects to old growth and wildlife resources. 

F. Additional Seasonal Road Restrictions 

Alternatives B, C, and D, propose to restrict Roads 3770, 3770A, 3771 and 3783, totaling 7.50 

miles, seasonally to all motorized vehicles, including snow vehicles, from December 1st to April 30th

to reduce wildlife disturbance in the winter season. Road 3783 is currently open and Roads 3770 

and 3771 are currently restricted October 15th to November 30th. Road 3770A is currently restricted 

July 1st to November 30th. 

In addition to the proposed yearlong restrictions (See previous section E), these proposed seasonal 

restrictions in winter range Management Area 11 would reduce the open road densities during the 

winter months from 2.71 ORD to 1.54 ORD. The ORDs within the deer Subherd boundaries would 

be greatly reduced, helping to decrease the disturbance to wildlife and provide additional wildlife 

security in winter range. 

G. Additions to the National Forest System (Road Reclassification) 

Alternatives B, C, and D proposes to reclassify unclassified Roads 14247, 15173, 15824, 3771A, 

3772 and 851B to National Forest System Roads. These roads would be managed with yearlong 

restrictions. A total of 3.52 miles of road would become NFSRs. 
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3-216 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

These roads already exist and are needed for resource management. Adding them as NFSR would 

help to economically meet management objectives and the desired condition for the transportation 

system. 

H. Additions to the National Forest Trail System 

Bear Paw Lake Trail: Alternatives B, C, and D proposes to build a new trail segment (0.16 miles) 

to connect the end of Roads 3781 and 3781B, which are currently restricted yearlong. These two 

roads would be utilized to complete a new loop trail from Bear Paw Lake. This loop would become a 

National Forest System Trail. However, the yearlong restricted road portions of this trail would 

remain NFSRs that are managed as a trail except during periods when the roads are needed for 

harvest activities. 

The new trail loop would total approximately 2 miles and would allow for non-motorized use only on 

the restricted section of the trail (1.7 miles). Part of the 2-mile loop includes 0.3 miles of seasonally 

restricted Road 3781, which provides the access to Bear Paw Lake and the new trailhead. It is 

restricted to all motorized vehicles during the regular hunting season from October 15th to November 

30th. This seasonally restricted portion of the road (and new loop trail) would remain open the rest of 

the year for trailhead access and would be open to over-snow vehicles December 1st to April 30th. 

District Trail Crews would be responsible for trail maintenance on all but the 0.3 miles of seasonally 

restricted Road 3781, which would be regularly maintained by the District road maintenance crews. 

Engineering or timber resources would be responsible for roadwork needed when the roads that are 

managed as trails are used for harvest activities. 

Sunday Mountain Trail: Convert the unclassified portion of Road 3730C, a length of 2.5 miles, to a 

National Forest System trail. Roads 3732 and 3702 would be utilized as part of the trail, and 

approximately 0.5 miles of new trail would be constructed to complete the loop. The trail loop would 

total approximately 7.3 miles. 

In Alternative B, the trail would allow for non-motorized use except it would be open to snow 

vehicles from December 1st to April 30th. Roads 3702 and 3732 are currently open December 1st to 

June 30th to motorized use, and December 1st to April 30th for snow vehicles. 

In Alternative C, the trail would allow non-motorized use only and be restricted yearlong to all 

motorized vehicles, including snowmobiles. 

In Alternative D, the trail would allow yearlong motorized use for motorcycles, all terrain vehicles 

(ATVs), and snowmobiles. Roads 3702 and 3732 are currently open from May 1st to June 30th to 

motorized use, excluding snow vehicles. 

Roads 3702 and 3732 will remain NFSRs, but will also be managed as a NFS trail. District trail crews 

would maintain the converted road and new trail segment, which total three miles. This action would 

improve recreational access and values, and help to reduce road maintenance costs. 

A total of 9.3 miles of trail would be added to the National Forest Trail System with the proposed 

activities associated with the Sunday Mountain and Bear Paw Lake Trails. 

I. Travel Access Management 

Alternatives B, C, and D proposes to designate the entire Trego Analysis Area as an area closed to 

public motorized use, except on the designated roads, as listed below. In addition, vehicles may 

travel up to 300’ off road for camping. All unauthorized trails within the Trego Analysis Area would be 

closed to motorized use. National Forest System trails would be designated for vehicle use 

depending upon which Alternative is selected. All areas within the Trego Analysis Area boundary 

would be closed to cross-country/off-road motorized use. Enforcement of this area closure would 

help to eliminate cross-county use and the development of unauthorized roads. The closure would 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-217 

remain in effect until a Forest-wide Travel Access Analysis for designating motor vehicle routes is 

completed and a Motor Vehicle Use Map is produced, as required in 36 CFR Parts 212, 251, 261, 

and 295; November 9, 2005. The Travel Access Analysis and Motor Vehicle Use Maps are 

scheduled for completion in 2009. 

There is a safety concern for mixed traffic on some of the main roads during the winter season. To 

ensure safety, snowmobile users must follow State Laws. The Montana Code, Title 23-2-631 states 

that snowmobile travel on public roads is legal only when travel by other vehicles is impractical or 

impossible. 

Alternative B: There would be 59.50 miles of Forest Service roads designated open to motorized 

highway vehicles in the Trego Project Area. This alternative also includes 7.3 miles of the new 

Sunday Mountain National Forest System Trail designated as open to snowmobile use from 

December 1st to April 30th. The trail is restricted yearlong to all other types of motorized vehicles 

under this alternative.

Alternative C: There would be 59.48 miles of Forest Service roads designated open to motorized 

highway vehicles in the Trego Analysis Area. This alternative restricts all motorized use, including 

snowmobiles, on 7.3 miles of the new Sunday Mountain Trail. 

Alternative D: There would be 59.50 miles of Forest Service roads designated open to motorized 

highway vehicles in the Trego Analysis Area. The new Sunday Mountain Trail would be designated 

open yearlong to motorcycles, ATVs and snowmobiles (7.3 miles). 

The open vehicle use periods for the designated roads in the Trego Analysis Area would be as 

follows: 

 Open all year long 19.95 miles 

 Open from December 1st to October 14th 20.60 miles 

 Open from December 1st to June 30th 3.06 miles 

 Open from May 1st to November 30th 0.86 miles 

(Alternative C) 0.84 miles 

 Open from May 1st to October 14th 6.22 miles 

 Open from May 1st to June 30th 0.39 miles 

 Open from July 1st to October 14th 8.42 miles 

Table 3-58. Roads Proposed for Open Travel within the Trego Analysis Area 

Road Number Period Road is Open Period Open for Snow Vehicles 

14256 Restricted Yearlong 

Not Open 

December 1st to April 30th

Alt. C Only-Closed Yearlong 

14264 All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

15049 All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

15804 All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

15812D All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

15815 July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

36 All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

36C All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3606 (to last Private Driveway) All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3718 July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3718A July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3722 (to jct. of 3722A) December 1st to Oct. 14th December 1st to April 30th

3722A December 1st to Oct. 14th December 1st to April 30th

3723 December 1st to June 30th December 1st to April 30th

3729 December 1st to Oct. 14th December 1st to April 30th

3730 All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3730C All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 
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3-218 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

Road Number Period Road is Open Period Open for Snow Vehicles 

3730D December 1st to June 30th December 1st to April 30th

3732 (1st 1.9 miles) All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3732 (to jct. of 3729) December 1st to Oct. 14th December 1st to April 30th

3732 (from jct. 3729 to Sunday 

Mtn.) December 1st to June 30th December 1st to April 30th

3732A Restricted Yearlong 

Not Open 

December 1st to April 30th 

Alt. C Only-Closed Yearlong 

3732B December 1st to June 30th December 1st to April 30th

3732C December 1st to June 30th December 1st to April 30th

3732D December 1st to Oct. 14th December 1st to April 30th

3733 All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3762 All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3762A (to jct. 15812) All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3762A (beyond jct.15812) Restricted Yearlong 

Not Open 

December 1st to April 30th 

Alt. C Only-Closed Yearlong 

3762B & 3762BZ All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3762C All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3770 May 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3770A May 1st to June 30th (Closed Yearlong) 

3771 May 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3772 (to jct. 3772A) December 1st to Oct. 14th December 1st to April 30th

3780 (1st 1.5 miles to jct. 3782) All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3780 (jct. 3782 to jct. 865 & 

3733) December 1st to Oct. 14th December 1st to April 30th

3781 (to Bear Paw Lake) December 1st to Oct.14th December 1st to April 30th

3781 (beyond Bear Paw Lake) Restricted Yearlong 

Not Open 

December 1st to April 30th

Alt. C Only-Closed Yearlong 

3781B Restricted Yearlong 

Not Open 

December 1st to April 30th 

Alt. C Only-Closed Yearlong 

3781C Restricted Yearlong 

Not Open 

December 1st to April 30th 

Alt. C Only-Closed Yearlong 

3782 July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3782A July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3782B July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

3783 May 1st to November 30th (Closed Yearlong) 

3783 (last 0.02 miles) Alt. C Only-Restricted Yearlong 

Not Open Closed Yearlong) 

3787 & 3787Z All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3787A (to fence) All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

3787A (from fence to Rd. 3718) Restricted Yearlong 

Not Open Alt. C Only-Closed Yearlong 

3787C All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

4437 December 1st to Oct. 14th December 1st to April 30th

4437A December 1st to Oct. 14th December 1st to April 30th

851 All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

865 (to jct. 871) All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

865 (jct. 871 to jct. 3733 & 3780) December 1st to Oct.14th December 1st to April 30th

871 (to jct. 871B) All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

871 (from jct. 871B) July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

871A July 1st to October 14th (Closed Yearlong) 

871B All Yearlong *Montana Code Title 23-2-631 

*The Montana Code, Title 23-2-631 states that snowmobile travel on roads open to other vehicles is legal only when travel by 

other vehicles is impractical or impossible. 

J. Access to National Forest System Lands: 

Currently, the Forest Service does not have legal access to two blocks of National Forest System 

Land, SE1/4, NE1/4 of Section 26; SE1/4, SW1/4, SW1/4, SE1/4 of Section 26 and NE1/4, NW1/4 of 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-219 

Section 35, T33N R26W, 40 acres and 120 acres respectively. To manage these parcels of National 

Forest Systems Lands safely and efficiently, Alternatives B, C, and D propose to obtain legal 

access. 

To obtain legal right-of-way access to these two isolated parcels of NFS land: 

• Open the currently restricted yearlong portion of Road 3762 (0.37 miles), which leads into 

State owned lands. 

• Pursue easements through State Lands and all applicable landowners to gain access on 

existing roads that lead to the two parcels. 

• Restrict yearlong the last 0.6 miles of Road 3762A, to compensate for opening Road 3762 

and maintain existing open road densities for the area. 

These actions would provide the legal access needed to manage the parcels of land that have not 

had access to in the past. Right-of-way easements are needed for crossing approximately 0.7 miles 

of State Lands and approximately 1.7 miles of private lands, which includes several different 

owners. 

Acquiring these easements would provide safe and efficient access for NFS land management 

activities. 

K. Private and Utility Access Needs 

Currently, there is a 40-acre block of private land, located in the SE1/4, SE1/4 of Section 14 T33N 

R26W owned by a development company. Access for utilities would be requested at some point in 

the near future. The feasible utility access is from the north and east. Access from the west is not 

physically feasible. Utilities are provided to a portion of the private land in Section 25 of T33N R26W. 

Additional private landowners within this section and in Section 36 are not currently being served, but 

would eventually request utilities. Forest Service Road 3730 crosses these properties. If cross 

country utility access is not physically feasible, the utilities would be requesting access to these 

private parcels along the Right-Of-Way of Road 3730. Alternatives B, C, and D propose to: 

• Permit utility companies (electric and phone) to bury cable along right-of-way of Roads 

3762B, 3762, 3762C and 3730.These actions would provide for reasonable and safe access 

to private land and for private utilities. The buried utility lines would be allowed on 1.1 miles

of National Forest System Roads. 

This action would temporarily affect the travel and access on these roads during the installation 

process, but would have no other direct, indirect or cumulative effects to the transportation system. 

The only access for the private landowner in Section 14, T33N R26W is from the Fortine Creek Road 

#36 but this is sometimes blocked by railroad activities. The railroad uses this area to stop and check 

for objects when their dragging sensors go off before entering the tunnel. Although the Railroad can 

move the train if requested, it is still a delay if an emergency should occur. Road 3762B would 

provide emergency access to this private property if the Forest Service earthen barrier on the road 

near the property boundary were removed. Alternatives B, C, and D propose to: 

• Remove the earthen barrier located near the property boundary on Road 3762B to allow 

secondary residential emergency access. This action would provide for reasonable and safe 

access to private land and for private utilities. 

Removing the barrier would not increase the open road densities on NFS lands. It will minimally 

increase traffic on this road. This action would provide for reasonable and safe access to private land 

and would produce no measurable direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to the transportation system. 
Chapter 3 

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3-220 Affected Enviroment & Environmental Consequences 

ALTERNATIVE A-NO ACTION 

Direct and Indirect Effects

If no road management actions occur, progress toward the desired future condition of the Trego 

Transportation system would be delayed. All of the proposed road management actions were 

developed to move toward the desired condition. If these actions were not accomplished, direct and 

indirect effects to the transportation system would include: 

• Increased deferred maintenance needs 

• Continued envirnonmental risks and effects to other resources would not be promptly 

mitigated or reduced 

• the desired efficiency of the transportation system would not be attained. 

Table 3-59. Road Management Actions by Alternative 

Road Mgmt Actions Alt. A Alt. B 

Proposed Action Alt. C Alt. D 

Road Maintenance (BMPs) 

required to meet Timber Sales 0 45.68 miles 45.68 miles 47.86 miles 

Road Decommissioning 

Classified Roads 

Unclassified Roads 

0 

0 

0 

12.47 miles 

3.32 miles 

9.15 miles 

12.47 miles 

3.32 miles 

9.15 miles 

12.47 miles 

3.32 miles 

9.15 miles 

Road Resurfacing 0 3.8 miles 3.8 miles 3.8 miles 

Intermittent Stored Service 0 0.44 miles 0.44 miles 0.44 miles 

Additional Yearlong Restrictions 

For MA 11 

For Deer Subherd 

For Old Growth 

Change from allowing snowmobiles 

to restricting snowmobiles 

0 7.16 miles 

1.59 miles 

1.98 miles 

3.59 miles 

7.18 miles 

1.59 miles 

1.98 miles 

3.59 miles 

5.37 miles 

7.16 miles 

1.59 miles 

1.98 miles 

3.59 miles 

Additional Seasonal Restrictions 0 7.5 miles 7.5 miles 7.5 miles 

Additions to NFS Roads 0 3.52 miles 3.52 miles 3.52 miles 

Additions to National Forest Trail 

System 

Bear Paw Lake Trail 

(Non-Motorized Use) 

Sunday Mountain Trail 

0 

0 

0 

9.3 miles 

2.0 miles 

7.3 miles 

Allow non-motorized 

use but open to snow 

vehicles 12/1 to 4/30 

9.3 miles 

2.0 miles 

7.3 miles 

Non-motorized use 

only; restricted 

yearlong to all 

motorize vehicles 

including snow 

vehicles 

9.3 miles 

2.0 miles 

7.3 miles 

Allow yearlong 

motorized use for 

motorcycles, ATVs, 

and snowmobiles 

Travel Access Management 

Designated Open Roads 0 59.50 miles 59.48 miles 59.50 miles 

Access for National Forest System 

Lands 

(Miles included in Yearlong 

Restrictions Above) 

0 

0.7 miles on State 

1.7 miles on private 

Open portion of Road 

3762, restrict 0.6 

miles of Road 3762A 

yearlong 

0.7 miles on State 

1.7 miles on private 

Open portion of Road 

3762, restrict 0.6 

miles of Road 3762A 

yearlong 

0.7 miles on State 

1.7 miles on private 

Open portion of Road 

3762, restrict 0.6 

miles of Road 3762A 

yearlong 

Private and Utility Access Needs 0 1.1 miles 1.1 miles 1.1 miles 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

The Cumulative Effects Worksheet, located in the Transportation Project File, considers and 

describes proposed activities in addition to the past, current, and reasonably foreseeable activities 

listed in Chapter 1. Those activities that cumulatively affect the transportation system are discussed 

below. 

Road Activity - In addition to all of the actions above, routine road maintenance would occur on 

roads, as needed. This would minimize road surface erosion, lessening the risk of culvert failures 
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Affected Environment & Environmental Consequences 3-221 

during peak runoff events, and retain the traffic safety standards for the road. Activities would include 

slough removal, ditch and culvert cleaning, brushing, and road grading. 

All proposed road related activities would produce beneficial results for the transportation system. No 

measurable increase in cumulative effects to the transportation system would result from the 

implementation of the proposed road management activities. 

CONSISTENCY WITH REGULATORY FRAMEWORK

The process of this analysis and the road management proposals listed in this document comply with 

all laws, executive orders, Forest Service directives, memorandums of understandings, and with the 

current Forest Plan goals, objectives, guidelines and standards. (Please refer Trego Roads Analysis 

and Travel Analysis (2005) and to the regulatory framework portion of the Transporation Section of 

the Project file) 
Chapter 3 

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3-222 Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences 

Economics 

The management of the Kootenai National Forest (KNF) has the potential to affect local economies. 

People are an important part of the ecosystem. Use of resources and recreational visitation to the 

Forest generate employment and income in the surrounding communities and counties and generate 

revenues that are returned to the federal treasury. 

This section presents concepts used to delineate an affected area and methods used to analyze the 

economic effects of the project, including the project feasibility, financial efficiency, and economic 

impacts. 

Regulatory Framework 

NEPA requires that consequences to the human environment be analyzed and disclosed, based on 

issues. NEPA does not require a monetary benefit-cost analysis. If an agency prepares an economic 

efficiency analysis, then one must be prepared and displayed for all alternatives [40 CFR 1502.23]. 

The preparation of NEPA documents is also guided by CEQ regulations for implementing NEPA [40 

CFR 1500-1508]. 

OMB Circular A-94 promotes efficient resource use through well-informed decision-making by the 

Federal Government. It suggests agencies prepare an efficiency analysis as part of project decisionmaking. It prescribes present net value as the criterion for an efficiency analysis. 

The development of timber sale programs and individual timber sales is guided by agency direction 

found in Forest Service Manual (FSM) 2430. Forest Service Handbook (FSH) 2409.18 guides the 

financial and, if applicable, economic efficiency analysis for timber sales. 

Analysis Area 

The analysis area for the efficiency analysis is the Kootenai National Forest. The analysis area for 

the affect on jobs and income is comprised of Lincoln, Sanders, and Flathead counties in Montana 

and Bonner and Boundary counties in Idaho. 

Affected Environment

The combination of small towns and rural settings, along with people from a wide variety of 

backgrounds, provide a diverse social environment for the geographical region around the Kootenai 

National Forest. Local residents pursue a wide variety of life-styles, but many share a common 

theme, an orientation to the outdoors and natural resources. This is reflected in both vocational and 

recreational pursuits including employment in logging and milling operations, outfitter and guide 

businesses, hiking, hunting, fishing, camping and many other recreational activities. 

Timber, tourism and agricultural industries are important to the economy of local areas. Despite the 

common concern for, and dependence on, natural resources within the local communities, social 

attitudes vary widely with respect to their management. Local residents hold a broad spectrum of 

perspectives and preferences ranging from complete preservation to maximum development and 

utilization of natural resources. 

Timber management activities within the analysis area have the potential to impact the economic 

conditions of local communities and counties. To estimate the potential effect on jobs and income, a 

zone of influence (or impact area) was delineated. Counties were selected based on commuting data 

suggesting a functioning economy and where the timber is likely to be processed (log flows). Recent 

data on log flows from the KNF was provided by the University of Montana’s Bureau of Business and 

Economic Research. The zone of influence for this project is comprised of Lincoln, Sanders, and 

Flathead counties in Montana and Boundary and Bonner counties in Idaho. 
Economics 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences 3-223 

A comprehensive socio-economic analysis was completed during the development of the Forest 

Plan. See the Comprehensive Evaluation Report for the Proposed Land Management Plan and the 

supporting document Social and Economic Systems: Conditions and Trends (available at 

http://www.fs.fed.us/kipz/documents/plmp/CER/index.php). These documents provide a description 

of the employment, income and social composition of the counties comprising the analysis area and 

the impact on each county from management of the Kootenai National Forest. This analysis 

indicates the counties within the analysis area are affected by timber management on the forest. 

Methodology 

Project feasibility relies on the Region 1 Transaction Evidence Appraisal (TEA) System. The 

TEA uses regression analysis of recently sold timber sales to predict bid prices. The most recent 

appraisal model for the area of interest was used to estimate the stumpage value (expected high 

bid resulting from the timber sale auction) for the timber project. The estimated stumpage value 

for each alternative was compared to the base rates (revenues considered essential to cover 

regeneration plus minimum return to the federal treasury) for that alternative. The project is 

considered to be feasible if the estimated stumpage value exceeds the base rates. If the 

feasibility analysis indicates that the project is not feasible (estimated stumpage value is less than 

the base rates), the project may need to be supplemented with contributed funds if actual bids do 

not exceed base rates. There would also be an increased risk that the project would not attract 

bids. Project feasibility needs to be considered prior to NEPA analysis and any infeasible 

alternatives should not have been considered in detail. 

Financial efficiency considers anticipated costs and revenues that are part of Forest Service 

monetary transactions. Present net value (PNV) is used as an indicator of financial efficiency and 

presents one tool to be used in conjunction with many other factors in the decision-making 

process. PNV combines benefits and costs that occur at different times and discounts them into 

an amount that is equivalent to all economic activity in a single year. A positive PNV indicates that 

the alternative is financially efficient. 

Economic efficiency uses the cost and revenue estimates included in the financial analysis and 

adds other economic costs and benefits that are not part of Forest Service monetary transactions. 

This analysis considers the quantifiable market and non-market benefits and costs associated 

with implementing each alternative. As with financial efficiency, a PNV is calculated to determine 

efficiency. An example of a non-market benefit or cost is an increase or decrease in recreation. A 

value for recreation visitor use would be derived from local or regional studies. An economic 

efficiency analysis is not required (FSH 2409.18, 30), and would only be included in this analysis 

if it was a public issue and there are predicted changes to quantifiable non-market benefits or 

costs from the project. 

Many of the costs and benefits associated with a project are not quantifiable. For example, the 

benefit to wildlife from habitat improvement or the cost associated with the degradation of visual 

quality from a project is not quantifiable. Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations for NEPA (40 CFR 

1502.23) indicates “For the purposes of complying with the Act, the weighing of the merits and 

drawbacks of the various alternatives need not be displayed in a monetary cost-benefit analysis 

and should not be when there are qualitative considerations.” 

Management of the forest is expected to yield positive benefits, but not necessarily financial 

benefits. Costs for various vegetation, recreation, wildlife, road and burning activities are based 

on recent experienced costs and professional estimates. Non-harvest related costs are included 

in the PNV analysis, but they are not included in appraised timber value. 

Economic impacts are estimated using input-output analysis. Input-output analysis is a means 

of examining relationships within an economy both between businesses and between businesses 

and final consumers. It captures all monetary market transactions for consumption in a given time 

period. The resulting mathematical representation allows one to examine the effect of a change in 

one or several economic activities on an entire economy, all else constant. This examination is 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-224 Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences 

called impact analysis. IMPLAN translates changes in final demand for goods and services into 

resulting changes in economic effects, such as labor income and employment of the affected 

area’s economy. The IMPLAN modeling system allows the user to build regional economic 

models of one or more counties for a particular year. The regional model for this analysis used 

the 2001 IMPLAN data. 

The economic impact effects are measured by estimating the direct jobs and labor income 

generated by the processing of the timber volume from the project. The direct employment and 

labor income benefit employees and their families and therefore directly affect the local economy. 

Additional indirect and induced, multiplier effects (ripple effects) are generated by the direct 

activities. Together the direct and multiplier effects comprise the total economic impacts to the 

local economy. The data used to estimate the direct effects from timber harvest is information 

provided by University of Montana’s Bureau of Business and Economic Research. The multiplier 

effects of timber harvest were estimated using IMPLAN. 

Environmental Consequences 

EFFECTS BY ALTERNATIVE 

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Project Feasibility 

The estimation of project feasibility was based on a transaction evidence appraisal model, which 

took into account logging system, timber species and quality, volume removed per acre, lumber 

market trends, costs for slash treatment, and the cost of road maintenance. The estimated high bid 

for each alternative is displayed in Table 3-1. The estimated high bid values for Alternatives B, C, 

and D are well above the adjusted base rates listed in Table 3-60, indicating that the alternatives are 

feasible. The revenue estimates from the feasibility analysis are used in the financial efficiency 

analysis discussed below. 

Financial and Economic Efficiency 

The financial efficiency analysis is specific to the timber harvest and ecosystem management 

activities associated with the alternatives (as directed in Forest Service Manual 2400-Timber 

Management and guidance found in the Forest Service Handbook 2409.18). Costs for sale 

preparation, sale administration, regeneration, and ecosystem restoration are included. All costs, 

timing, and amounts were developed by the specialists on the project’s interdisciplinary team. The 

Total Revenue for each alternative is calculated using the volume proposed for harvest multiplied by 

the estimated high bid from the transaction evidence appraisal equation (Table 3-60). The PNV was 

calculated using Quicksilver, a program for economic analysis of long-term, on-the-ground resource 

management projects. A four percent discount rate is used over the eleven-year project lifespan 

(2006-2017). For more information on the values or costs, see the Economics Project File. 

This analysis is not intended to be a comprehensive benefit-cost or PNV analysis that incorporates a 

monetary expression of all known market and non-market benefits and costs that are generally used 

when economic efficiency is the sole or primary criterion upon which a decision is made. Many of the 

values associated with natural resource management are best handled apart from, but in conjunction 

with, a more limited benefit-cost framework. These values are discussed throughout this document, 

for each resource area. 

Changes to resources like fisheries and wildlife habitat have been measured using changes to 

habitat conditions and will not be described in financial or economic terms for this project. See the 

fisheries and wildlife sections of this document. Table 3-60 summarizes the project feasibility and 

financial efficiency, including the estimated stumpage value, total revenue and PNV for each 

alternative. Because all costs of the project are not related to the timber sale, two PNVs have been 

calculated. One PNV indicates the financial efficiency of the timber sale, including all costs and 

revenues associated with the timber harvest and essential KV. A second PNV includes all costs for 
Economics 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences 3-225 

each alternative, including desired ecosystem management projects that could occur in conjunction 

with the timber sales. 

Table 3-60 indicates all action alternatives are financially efficient for the timber sale, but 

Alternatives B and C are financially inefficient when all ecosystem management costs are 

considered. The No-Action Alternative has no costs or revenues associated with it. Of the action 

alternatives, Alternative D has the highest timber sale PNV at $439,302. Alternative D also has the 

highest PNV for the timber sale plus other ecosystem management costs, at $129,815. The NoAction Alternative would not harvest, plant trees, or take other restorative actions and, therefore, 

incur no costs. 

When evaluating trade-offs, the use of financial efficiency measures is one tool used by the decision 

maker in making the decision. Many things cannot be quantified, such as effects on wildlife, impacts 

on local communities and restoration of watersheds and vegetation. The decision maker takes many 

factors into account in making the decision. 

Table 3-60. Project Feasibility and Financial Efficiency Summary (2006 dollars). 

Alternative B Alternative C Alternative D 

Timber 

Harvest 

Information 

Acres 2364 1697 2717 

 Volume (CCF) 13,714 10,503 19,754 

 Volume (MBF) 6857 5251.5 9877 

 Adjusted Base Rates $18.15 $17.94 $21.75 

Estimated High Bid 

($/CCF) $57.47 $49.10 $70.64 

 Total Revenue ($000) $788,143 $516,697 $1,395,422 

Timber 

Harvest & 

Essential KV 

PNV ($000) $141,368 $31,263 $439,302 

Timber 

Harvest & 

Planned 

Ecosystem 

Projects 

PNV ($000) $-147,043 $-187,887 $129,815 

Economic Impact Effects (jobs and labor income) 

 

Timber production from this proposed KNF project would have direct and indirect effects on local 

jobs and labor income. The Forest used an input-output model, IMPLAN (Impact Analysis for 

Planning) to estimate effects on employment and labor income within a defined geographical area 

(called an impact area or zone of influence). 

Charles E. Keegan of the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at the University of Montana 

derived the direct employment and labor income response coefficients (e.g., jobs and labor income 

per million cubic feet). The indirect and induced multiplier effects were estimated using the IMPLAN 

model for the economic impact area. The direct, indirect and induced employment and labor income 

coefficients have been incorporated into a spreadsheet developed by the Regional Economist for the 

USFS, Northern Region. The analysis calculated the jobs and labor income associated with the 

volume of timber harvest proposed by each alternative. 

Table 3-61 displays both direct and total estimates for employment (part and full-time) and labor 

income that may be attributed to each alternative. Since timber harvest would occur over a four year 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-226 Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences 

period, the estimated impacts of jobs and labor income would be spread out over the four years of 

harvest for the project. These are not new jobs or income, but rather jobs and income that can be 

attributed to this project. 

Table 3-61. Employment (full- and part-time jobs) and Income (Thousand of 2006 $) 

Analysis Item Alternative B Alternative C Alternative D 

Direct Employment 60 46 87 

Total Employment 141 108 204 

Direct Labor Income (M $) $1,861.80 $1,425.90 $2,682.10 

Total Labor Income (M $) $3,551.10 $2,719.60 $5,115.50 

Definitions: 

 1. Employment is the total full and part-time wage, salaried, and self-employed jobs in the 

 region. 

 2. Labor income includes the wages and salaries as well as benefits of workers who are paid 

 by employers, and income to proprietors. 

Estimates in Table 3-61 indicate that Alternative D would generate/maintain the highest number of 

jobs and labor income. Alternative C generates significantly fewer jobs and labor income. The NoAction Alternative generates no jobs or income because there are no activities associated with this 

alternative. 

The analysis assumes the timber volume processed would occur within the Kootenai zone of 

influence. However, if some of the timber were processed outside the region, then a portion of the 

jobs and income would be lost by this regional economy. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES 

Many factors influence and affect the local economies, including changes to industry technologies, 

economic growth, international trade, and the economic diversity and dependency of the counties. 

Cumulative economic effects would be seen within the local community as a result of the foreseeable 

actions, which result from timber sales. Planting, post harvest exams, reforestation surveys, 

purchaser piling, road resurfacing, road maintenance, and road decommissioning would all provide 

additional employment and income opportunities to the community and surrounding areas. 

This project is not expected to add to any existing cumulative effect. However, the jobs and income 

associated with the action alternatives, especially Alternative D, may bring the local economy some 

increased relative stability during the life of the project.
Required Disclosures 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences 3-227 

POTENTIAL CONFLICTS WITH PLANS AND POLICIES OF OTHER 

JURISDICTIONS 

Cultural Resources 

The laws and policies that govern cultural resource protection on Federal Lands are coordinated with 

the SHPO of Montana, who serves in an advisory capacity. The policies for USFS and SHPO are 

consistent. The Forest Service would inform and consult with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai 

Tribes on proposed activities, site information, and potential impacts. 

Wildlife 

The Forest Service and the MFWP work together to manage wildlife, but the missions of the two 

agencies are different. The Forest Service manages the land and affects wildlife habitat by modifying 

the structure and composition of vegetation and by creating and restricting access. The State of 

Montana manages the animals, and they affect wildlife by adjusting hunting seasons, harvest and 

day limits, and enforcing other rules that affect fish and wildlife populations. 

The Forest Service works with the USFWS for the recovery of Threatened and Endangered Species. 

The Forest Service consults with the USFWS when Threatened, Endangered, and Proposed 

Species may be affected. 

Water Quality 

Section 313 of the Clean Water Act requires Federal Agencies to comply with all Federal, State, 

interstate and local requirements, administrative authority, and process and sanctions with respect to 

the control and abatement of water pollution. Executive Order 12088 also requires the Forest Service 

to meet the requirements of the Act. All action alternatives would comply with the Clean Water Act 

and Montana State Water Quality Standards. These alternatives would incorporate reasonable Soil 

and Water Conservation Practices, avoid channel degradation, and comply with the Forest Plan. 

Air Quality 

The prescribed burning of harvest units under all action alternatives has the potential to affect local 

air quality. This activity is conducted in accordance with the State of Montana air quality guidelines 

administered by the Montana/Idaho State Airshed Group, made up of industry, State and Federal 

agencies, and local Health Department Representatives. 

Potential conflicts occasionally exist between National Forest concerns for meeting land 

management goals and the commitments of the State Agencies for clean air. 

Other sources of potential conflict exist between private landowners within Montana, State land 

management agencies, and other adjoining National Forests competing for the limited number of 

suitable burning days. When such conflicts are identified, the Forest Service does not burn. 

PROBABLE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS THAT CANNOT BE AVOIDED 

Implementation of any alternatives would inevitably result in some adverse environmental effects. 

The severity of the effects can be minimized by adhering to the features of the alternatives such as 

the Best Management Practices. If management activities occur, however, some effects cannot be 

avoided. Even the No-Action Alternative has effects. 

Cultural Resources 

There is no assurance that every cultural resource site would be located in advance of all planned 

management activities. Some ground-disturbing activity may affect an undiscovered historic or 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-228 Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences 

prehistoric site. Sites discovered in this manner would be protected immediately from further 

disturbance. 

Scenic Resources 

The introduction of timber harvest units would add a variety of line, form, color, and texture to the 

landscape. Recreation visitors may see a modified forest in the near foreground, middle-ground, and 

background where harvest is implemented. 

Wildlife 

The availability of stand structure, composition, patch size, and specific wildlife habitat elements is 

dynamic and changes over time. Consequently, wildlife populations associated with specific habitat 

conditions also change with time. All action alternatives would move habitat conditions within/ 

towards historic ranges. Changes in habitat availability can cause changes in local population 

numbers of specific species. For example, regeneration harvest of old growth habitat can increase 

the number of bluebirds in the treated area while numbers of brown creepers would be reduced. Old 

growth-dependent wildlife species may experience fluctuations in their populations as successional 

conditions change. Proposed action alternatives can also directly harm species through timber 

harvest and associated activities. Species primarily affected would be birds, amphibians, and small 

mammals. Although the proposed actions may affect individuals, it is not expected to cause a loss of 

population viability. 

Air Quality 

Temporary seasonal effects on air quality are unavoidable under any of the action alternatives. 

Prescribed fire is an integral part of ecosystem management, fuel treatment, and site preparation for 

reforestation. These activities would be scheduled when air dispersion is good. 

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SHORT-TERM USE AND LONG-TERM 

PROODUCTIVITY 

Short-term uses are those that generally occur annually. Long-term productivity refers to the ability of 

the land to produce a continuous supply of a resource. 

Water Quality 

The duration of the effects of timber management on the water resource is highly variable and 

dependent on land and vegetation types. Stream channel conditions may be altered as a 

consequence of short-term direct and indirect effects of management activities. 

Wildlife 

As explained above, the availability of stand structure, composition, patch size, and specific wildlife 

habitat elements is dynamic and changes over time. The appropriate scheduling of timber harvest 

and treatment of specific timber stands and habitat conditions can provide for and help sustain a 

mosaic of habitat conditions representative of historic ranges. 

Vegetation 

Managed stands produce a higher volume of wood fiber through time than unmanaged stands. 

Regeneration of desired fast-growing species, planting of genetically improved trees, stocking control 

to reduce competition and improve growth of individual trees, and intermediate treatments to 

maintain the health and vigor of stands are silvicultural means of maintaining the long-term yield of 

forest stands. 
Required Disclosures 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences 3-229 

In the short term, harvesting stands that are at a high risk of mortality capture economic value that 

would otherwise be lost. Timely reforestation puts the land back into a productive growing condition. 

Depending on the level of timber harvesting and the site preparation method that follows, reductions 

in organic matter could reduce long-term site productivity. Silvicultural prescriptions include 

measures designed to maintain varying levels of organic matter. Reforestation of harvest areas could 

change plant succession, stand development, and species composition. 

Air Quality 

The temporary impacts of smoke from prescribed debris burning and road dust from vehicles 

associated with proposed activities would have minor short-term effects on visual quality and 

recreation use. The short-term impacts are traded for by minimizing the risks from wildfire and longterm increased site productivity. The short-term impact of prescribed burning is required to decrease 

the risk from wildfire on these sites. Wildfires generally provide significantly more air pollution. 

Silvicutural treatments and prescribed burning would increase long-term site productivity. 

IRREVERSIBLE AND IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENTS OF RESOURCES 

An irreversible commitment of resources refers to the loss of production or use of a non-renewable 

resource due to a land use decision that, once executed, cannot be changed. An irretrievable 

commitment of resources applies to loss of production or use of renewable resources for a time. 

Soil Productivity 

Best Management Practices would be used to avoid soil productivity losses from timber harvesting 

and associated temporary road/skid trail construction. Temporary roads would constitute an 

irretrievable commitment of resources even though they would be recontoured. The soil mixing and 

disturbance that would be associated with temporary construction would lower soil productivity. 

While plant and tree growth on these sites would occur over the short term, full productivity recovery 

would take decades to hundreds of years. 

Air Quality 

The impact of prescribed burning would have temporary seasonal impacts on the air quality in all 

alternatives except Alternative A, No Action. 

Scenic Resources 

Irretrievable changes in the existing appearance of the landscape would occur under the action 

alternatives. These changes would become progressively less noticeable as vegetation recovered in 

harvested areas and along roads. 

Wildlife 

The loss or modification of habitat for certain wildlife species is an irretrievable commitment of 

resources. As treated vegetation recovers, associated habitat would also recover. However, the 

timeframe for this to occur may be many decades for mature and old growth-related species. 

Cultural Resources 

Any activity that would disturb a cultural resource is an irreversible commitment. 
Chapter 3 

Trego EA 

3-230 Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences 

SPECIFICALLY REQUIRED DISCLOSURES 

Administration of the Forest Development Transportation System 

A roads analysis has been prepared for the Trego Analysis Area (See Transportation Project File) in 

accordance with the Roads Policy – 36 CFR Part 212 et al. (published in the Federal Register on 

January 12, 2001). 

Effects of Alternatives on Social Groups

Executive Order 12898, issued in 1994, ordered federal agencies to identify and address the issue of 

environmental justice (i.e., adverse human health and environmental effects of agency programs that 

disproportionately impact minority and low income populations). At this time, no minority or lowincome communities have been identified in the Trego Analysis Area. 

Based on experience with similar projects on the Fortine Ranger District, none of the alternatives 

would substantially affect minority or low-income individuals, women, or civil rights. The 

implementation of this project is expected to provide job opportunities in communities such as 

Stryker, Fortine, Trego, and Eureka, Montana. Some of these communities include minority 

populations that may benefit from the economic effects. Small or minority-owned businesses would 

have the opportunity to compete for some of the work. 

Effects on Floodplains and Wetlands 

Floodplain areas constitute all of the wetlands in the analysis area and are protected as RHCAs. 

Wetlands may occur in the form of seeps, springs, and small bogs; however, the exact locations of 

all these have not been identified prior to unit layout. These seeps, springs, and small bogs are not 

evident through aerial photography and are probably less than one-quarter acre in size. These areas 

would be protected by adhering to the Montana Stream Management Zone regulations, Kootenai 

National Forest Riparian Area Guidelines as amended by INFS (USDA, Forest Service, 1987), Best 

Management Practices, and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (33 CFR 323). See the Water 

Resources Section of this chapter for more specifics. 

Effects of Alternatives on Threatened and Endangered Species 

Threatened and endangered wildlife, fish, and plant species may be affected by the proposed 

activities in the analysis area. A biological assessment would be prepared and submitted to the US 

Fish and Wildlife Service for concurrence according to the Endangered Species Act to insure 

protection of these species. 

Energy Requirements and Conservation Potential of Alternatives 

The energy required to implement the alternatives in terms of petroleum products would be 

insignificant when viewed in light of the production costs and effects of the national and worldwide 

petroleum reserves. 

Effects of Alternatives on Prime Rangeland, Forest Land, and Farm Land 

The alternatives presented are in compliance with Federal Regulations for prime lands. The 

definition of prime forestland does not apply to lands within the National Forests. Lands administered 

by the Forest Service in the analysis area do not include prime farmlands or range lands. In all 

alternatives, Federal lands would be managed with the appropriate consideration to the effects on 

adjacent lands. 

Migratory Bird Treaty Act 

On January 10, 2001, President Clinton signed an Executive Order outlining responsibilities of 
Required Disclosures 

Trego EA 

Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences 3-231 

federal agencies to protect migratory birds. Upon review of the information regarding neotropical 

migratory birds in the Migratory Bird Project File, there would be no significant loss of migratory bird 

habitat from the implementation of any of the action alternatives. 

All action alternatives move stand structure, composition, patch size, and specific wildlife habitat 

elements within/towards historic ranges. Changes in habitat availability can cause changes in local 

population numbers of specific species. Proposed actions are expected to maintain sufficient 

amounts and types of habitat to allow migratory birds to continue to inhabit and reproduce within the 

Trego Analysis Area.

The action alternatives contain practices that avoid or minimize, to the maximum extent practicable, 

adverse impacts on species of migratory birds. However, proposed actions would create short-term 

disturbances and may cause harm to some species. Therefore, proposed actions may harm 

individuals but are not likely to cause a loss of population viability of associated migratory birds.
Chapter 3 Maps 
Management Areas

3732

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36

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LEGEND

Existing Roads

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Railroad

40 ft Contours

Management Areas

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Non-FS Lands

Trego "

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Sunday

Mtn

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

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This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

Fortine

Creek

Map 3-1
Soils Resource

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LEGEND

Landtypes

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Existing Roads

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Railroad

40 ft Contours

Trego "

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Sunday

Mtn

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

Fortine

Creek

Map 3-2
R26W

Vegetative Response Units

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Trego Analysis Area

LEGEND

Vegetative Response Units

Cool/Moist

Non-Forest

Warm/Dry

Existing Roads

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Railroad

40 ft Contours

Ownership

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands

Trego "

l

Sunday

Mtn

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

Fortine

Creek

Map 3-3
Wildland Urban Interface

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Trego Analysis Area

LEGEND

Existing Roads

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Railroad

Streams

Lakes/Wetlands

40 ft Contours

Ownership

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands

Wildland Urban Interface

Boundary

Fortine

Creek

Trego "

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

Map 3-4
Watersheds

Lower

Jim Creek

Upper

Lime Creek

Upper

Jim Creek

Stewart

Creek

Brimstone

Creek

Lower

Lime Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Butcher

Creek

Jim Creek

Trib

Middle

Fortine Creek

Trego Analysis Area

LEGEND

Riparian Habitat Conservation Area

Lakes/Wetlands

Streams

Watershed Boundary

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands

Fortine

Creek

Trego "

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

Map 3-5
Creek

Creek

Beaver

Brimstone

Twin

Grand

Magnesia

Creek

Fortine

Creek

Fortine

Edna

Creek

Creek

Jim

Creek

Swamp

Creek

Creek

Creek

Creek

Basin

Creek

Meadows

Creek

Lake

Creek

Creek

Davis

Sterling

Lime

Creek

Stewart

Creek

Hamilton

Trego Analysis Area

Cumulative EffectsWatersheds

LEGEND

Major Streams

Lime/Magnesia CE Watershed

Jim/Stewart CE Watershed

Trego CE Watershed

Subunit Boundaries

Trego

Subunit

Fortine

Subunit

Swamp

Subunit

4

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

0.5 0.25 0 0.5 1 1.5 2

Miles

Meadow

Subunit

Trego "

Map 3-6
Oldgrowth

3732

3780

3780

865

3732

36

36

36

3780

865

3730

3732

36

36

865

3730

865

36

3732

2

8 9 7

5 6 4

1

3

36

25

13

23

20

24

30

26

17

12

32 31

19

18 16

31

29

14

33

30

22

29

3

35

10

27

36

21

19

1

32

11

15

25 28

20

28

11

21

34

34

15

2

4

15

15

11

25

Trego Analysis Area

LEGEND

Oldgrowth Type

Designated Effective

Designated Replacement

Undesignated Effective

Existing Roads

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Railroad

Streams

Lakes/Wetlands

40 ft Contours

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands

Fortine

Creek

Trego "

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

Map 3-7
3153±

363±

483±

4943±

4333±

3683± 1143±

3193±

£¤93

£¤93

8653±

3780

3±

3730

3± 3732

3±

3729

3±

LEGEND

Meadow Subherd Boundary

Murphy Subherd Boundary

Trego Subherd Boundary

Trego Analysis Area Boundary

Major Lakes

US Highway 93

Major Roads

Major Streams

Non Forest Service Lands

Fortine Ranger District Boundary

4 0 1 2 4

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

"Trego

Murphy

Lake

Dickey

Lake

Therriault

Lakes

Glen

Lake

Frank

Lake

Fort ni e Creek

Meadow

Creek

Deep Creek

Grave Cree

To

k

bacco River

Trego Analysis Area

Map 3-8

White-tail Deer

Subherds
Lynx Habitat

Trego Analysis Area

LEGEND

Lynx Habitat

Denning

Forage

Habitat

Non-Habitat

Unsuitable Habitat

No Data/Private

Sunday/Trego Lynx Analysis Unit - 14307

Trego Analysis Area

Lakes/Wetlands

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Railroad

Streams

40 ft Contours

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands

Fortine

Creek

Trego "

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

Sunday

Creek

4 0 0.375 0.75 1.5

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

Map 3-9
Range Allotments

3732

3780

3780

865

3732

36

36

36

3780

865

3730

3732

36

36

865

3730

865

36

3732

2

8 9 7

5 6 4

1

3

36

25

13

23

20

24

30

26

17

12

32 31

19

18 16

31

29

14

33

30

22

29

3

35

10

27

36

21

19

1

32

11

15

25 28

20

28

11

21

34

34

15

2

4

15

15

11

25

Trego Analysis Area

LEGEND

Allotment Boundaries

Swamp Fortine

Trego

Existing Roads

Fortine Creek Road (Rd 36)

Railroad

Streams

Lakes/Wetlands

40 ft Contours

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands

Fortine

Creek

Trego "

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

Map 3-10
Existing Road Management

3730C

871D 871C

865G

14265

15824

851B

851A

3781B

3781

3781G

3781F

3781D

3781H

3781A 865D

3780B

3727A

14255

14252

3780A

3784

3784A

3787B 3783

3770

15173

15173A

3771

3770A

3771A

3770C

3770B

3770

14253

3770G

3770

3772

3772A

14250

14251

14259

14246

3731

3722

3722B

3730F

3605B

3606

14257

14247

14263

3780D

3780C

14254

3770F

3770E

3732F

3723

3732

3732A

3731A

3722A

3605

3730B

3605A

14264

3762

3732D

3732B

3732C

3770A

3718A

14256

3718

3718

3718A

3780

3784

3782

3782B

3782A

3781C 865E

3727 865F

4437

4437A

865C

871A

871

3787A

3730

3762A

36A

871B

3780

3780

865

3732

36

36

36

3780

865

3730

3732

36

36

865

3730

865

36

3732

2

8 9 7

5 6

4

1

3

36

25

13

23

20

24

30

26

17

12

32 31

19

18 16

31

29

14

33

30

22

29

3

35

10

27

36

21

19

1

32

11

15

25

28

20

28

11

21

34

34

15

2

4

15

15

11

25

Trego Analysis Area

Fortine

Creek

Trego "

Bear Paw

Lake

Butcher Creek

Jim

Creek

l

Sunday

Mtn

Stewart

Creek

Magnesia

Creek

Lime

Creek

4 0 0.25 0.5 1

Miles

This map was generated from electronic data files (GIS coverages)

which were scanned or digitized from information at 1:24000

scale. The data on this map is based on the accuracy and

precision of the 1:24000 USGS quad maps and 10-meter

resolution satellite imagery which were used to generate or rectify

map data. This map is to be used as reference only, and is not

intended for use in site specific planning. The information on this

map is subject to revision as field data and technical processes

improve. The topographic contours were derived from a digital

elevation model. Their intended purpose is for display not analysis.

T.Garrison 5-2006

LEGEND

Railroad

Streams

Lakes/Wetlands

Forest Service Lands

State Lands

Private Lands

40 ft Contours

National Forest System Roads

Restricted Seasonally Oct 15 to Nov 30 including Snowmobiles

Restricted Seasonally July 1 to Nov 30 including Snowmobiles

Restricted Seasonally Oct 15 to June 30 including Snowmobiles

Unclassified Roads

Restricted Seasonally Oct 15 to Nov 30 including Snowmobiles

State Roads

County Roads

Restricted Yearlong, Open to Snowmobiles Dec 1 to Apr 30

Restricted Yearlong, Open to Snowmobiles Dec 1 to Apr 30

Restricted Seasonally Dec 1 to June 30 including Snowmobiles

Open Roads

0pen Roads

Private Roads

Map 3-11
No Effects Rationale 

For 

Wildlife and Fish Species 

Appendix 

A 
No Effect Rationale for Wildlife and Fish Species 

Appendix A 

Trego EA 

Appendix A-1 

Table A-1. No Effect Rationale for Endangered, Threatened and Sensitive Fish Species 

Species 

Status within 

the analysis 

area 

Rationale for No Effect Determination 

White sturgeon 

(Acipenser 

transmontanus) 

Endangered, 

Not 

Suspected 

The Trego Analysis Area is located approximately 75 stream miles 

above Libby Dam and approximately 105 stream miles above Kootenai 

Falls, where current suitable sturgeon habitat occurs. Risk of 

downstream effects on the white sturgeon is immeasurably low due to 

the lack of a physical or biological connection between proposed 

activities and known or suspected populations. 

Redband trout 

(Oncorhynchus 

mykiss ssp) 

Sensitive, Not 

Suspected 

Interior redband trout populations of 98 percent or better purity only 

inhabit tributaries to the Kootenai River below Kootenai Falls, which is 

the species' historic range. Risk of downstream effects on redband 

trout populations is immeasurably low due to the lack of a physical or 

biological connection between proposed activities and known or 

suspected populations. 

Burbot (Lota lota) Sensitive, Not 

Suspected 

No burbot are known to occur within either the analysis area or District. 

They have been found in the mouth of the Tobacco River and 

Koocanusa Reservoir. The risk of downstream effects on the burbot is 

immeasurably low. 

Table A-2. No Effect Rationale for Endangered, Threatened, or Sensitive Wildlife Species 

Species 

Status within 

the analysis 

area 

Rationale for No Effect Determination 

Bald Eagle 

(Halieaeetus 

leucocephalus) 

Threatened, 

Not 

suspected 

No nesting habitat exists within the analysis area, as there are no lakes 

or large rivers. In addition, habitat maps produced by the KNF and 

agreed to by the Fish and Wildlife Service show that no analysis for the 

bald eagle is required in the Fortine Analysis Area because of a lack of 

suitable habitat. Therefore, this project would have no effect on the bald 

eagle or its habitat. 

Columbian sharptailed grouse 

(Pedioecetes 

phasianellus)

Sensitive, Not 

suspected 

No suitable extensive perennial grassland exists within the analysis 

area. Locations on the district are known only to the North end of the 

district near the Canadian border. Therefore, this project would have no 

effect on the grouse or its habitat 

Common Loon 

(Gavia immer) 

Sensitive, Not 

suspected 

No foraging or nesting habitat exists in the form of large lakes within the 

analysis area. Therefore, this project would have no effect on the 

common loon or its habitat. 

Coeur d'Alene 

salamander 

(Plethodon vandykei 

idahoensis) 

Sensitive, Not 

suspected 

There is no habitat in the form of rock walls with seeping water or spray 

zones. Therefore, this project would have no effect on the salamander 

or its habitat. 

Northern bog 

lemming 

(Synaptomys 

borealis) 

Sensitive, Not 

suspected 

The analysis area does not support thick mats of sphagnum moss in 

bogs, fens, or other wet areas suitable for the bog lemming. Surveys in 

the analysis area have not found this species. Therefore, this project 

would have no effect on the bog lemming or its habitat. 

Woodland caribou 

(Rangifer tarandus 

caribou)

Sensitive, Not 

suspected 

No historical or recent documentation exists of the species within the 

analysis area. No recent documentation exists for surrounding subunits. 

Therefore, this project would have no effect on the caribou or its habitat. 

Harlequin duck 

(Histrionicus 

histrionicus) 

Sensitive, Not 

suspected 

Harlequin ducks require clean, clear water with an abundant food 

source for successful reproduction. This duck is not known to use 

Fortine Creek or tributaries and locations on the district are known only 

to Grave Creek. Therefore this project would have no effect on the 

harlequin duck or its habitat 
Best 

Management 

Practices 

Appendix 

B 
 Bes

 

Trego EA 

Appendix B - 1 

 INTRODUCTION 

Federal agency compliance with pollution control is addressed through Section 313 of the Clean Water Act, Executive Order 12

National Nonpoint Source Policy (December 12, 1984), USDA Nonpoint Source Water Quality Policy (December 5, 1986) and Protection Agency in their guidance "Nonpoint Source Controls and Water Quality Standards" (August 19, 1987). In order to co

non-point pollution controls the Forest Service will apply Best Management Practices (BMPs) to all possible non-point sources management activities proposed in this DEIS. These BMPs are the Soil and Water Conservation Practices described in the Fo(FSH) 2509.22. BMPs are the primary mechanism for achievement of water quality standards (EPA, 1987). This appendix describes the Forest detail, and lists the key Soil and Water Conservation Practices that have been selected to be used in the action alternatives an

BMPs include, but are not limited to, structural, and non-structural controls, operations, and maintenance procedures. BMPs caor after pollution-producing activities to reduce or eliminate the introduction of pollutants into the receiving watershed (40 CFR 

Standards Regulation). BMPs are usually applied as a system of practices rather than a single practice. They are selected on tconditions that reflect natural background conditions and political, social, economic, and technical feasibility. The Forest Plan states that soil and water conservation practices, as outlined in the Soil and Water Conservation Practices Ha1988), will be incorporated into all land use project plans as a principal mechanism for controlling non-point pollution sources, mquality goals, and protecting beneficial uses. Activities found not to comply with the soil and water conservation practices or Stabrought into compliance, modified, or stopped (USDA Forest Service, 1987a, pp. 11-23). Montana State Water Quality Standarreasonable land, soil, and water conservation practices (analogous to BMPs) as the controlling mechanism for non-point pollut

also required in the Memorandum of Understanding between the Forest Service and the State of Montana as part of the agenc

designated water quality management agency on National Forest System lands. BMP IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS In cooperation with the State, the Forest Service's primary strategy for the control of non-point sources of pollution is based on 

preventive practices (i.e., BMPs). The BMPs have been designed and selected to protect the identified beneficial uses of the w

The Forest Service non-point source management system consists of the following steps: 

1) BMP Selection and Design - Water quality goals are identified in the Forest Plan. These goals meet or exceed applicab

including State water quality regulations, the Clean Water Act, and the National Forest Management Act. Environmenta

are tiered to Forest Plans using the National Environmental Policy Act process. The appropriate BMPs are selected for interdisciplinary team. In each new location, there is flexibility to design different BMPs depending on local conditions a

beneficial uses of water. The BMP selection and design are dictated by the proposed activity, water quality objectives, 

vegetation, and climate. Environmental impacts and water quality protection options are evaluated, and alternative mix
 Bes

 

Trego EA 

Appendix B - 2 

considered. A final collection of practices are selected that not only protect water quality but meet other resource needspractices constitute the BMPs for the project. 

2) BMP Application - The BMPs are translated into contract provisions, special use permit requirements, project plan spec

ensures that the operator or person responsible for applying the BMPs actually is required to do so. Site-specific BMP plan-to-ground by a combination of project layout and resource specialists (hydrology, fisheries, soils, etc.). This is wheBMP prescriptions to the site are made. 

3) BMP Monitoring - When the resource activity begins (e.g., timber harvest or road building), timber sale administrators, 

resource specialists, and others ensure the BMPs are implemented according to plan. BMP implementation monitoring 

after resource activity implementation. This monitoring answers the question: Did we do what we said we were going t

been implemented, further monitoring is done to evaluate if the BMPs are effective in meeting management objectives uses. If monitoring indicates that water quality standards are not being met or beneficial uses are not being protected, cconsider the following:  a. Is the BMP technically sound? Is it really best or is there a better practice that is technically sound and feasible 

b. Was the BMP applied entirely as designated? Was it only partially implemented? Were personnel, equipment, 

which resulted in inadequate or incomplete implementation? 

c. Do the parameters and criteria that constitute water quality standards adequately reflect human-induced change

beneficial uses? 

4) Feedback - Feedback on the results of BMP evaluation is both short- and long-term in nature. Where corrective action 

response will be undertaken. This action may include: modification of the BMP, modification of the activity, ceasing the modification of the State water quality standard. Cumulative effects over the long-term may also lead to the need for po
 Bes

 

Trego EA 

Appendix B - 3 

KNF BMP SELECTION AND DESIGN FORM (KNF-BMP-1) (Revised 3/06)

SITE-SPECIFIC BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES.

Description of the soil and water conservation practices from the Forest Service Soil and Water Conservation Handboo

will be applied in all alternatives. The location where the practices will be applied is specified in the table below. For a mdescription of a specific BMP, refer to the Soil and Water Conservation Handbook. 

Abbreviations used in this table: 

SPS = Special Project Specification KNF = Kootenai National Forest 

TSC = Timber Sale Contract PSF = Pre-sale Forester TSA = Timber Sale Administrator ER = Engineering Representative SMZ = Streamside Management Zone COR = Contracting Officer's RepreseIDT = Interdisciplinary Team SAM = Sale Area Map 

SWCP = Soil and Water Conservation Practice FMO = Fire Management Officer 

SWCP SWCP OBJECTIVE APPLICABLE UNITS/ROADS RECOMMENDED BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES BY IDT/TSA CONSIDERATIONS FOR BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 

14.01

TIMBER SALE PLANNING - To incorporate soil and water resource considerations into Timber Sale Planning

All Activities

1. Unit design, mitigation, and effects analysis 

was done by IDT. 

2. TSC will be prepared by PSF that will 

include management constraints and Design Criteria from EIS. 

3. Use standard interim RHCA widths unless 

modified through watershed analysis. 

4. Use exiting skid trails where feasible.

IDT has evaluated watershed characteristics anestimated response to proposed activities. EIS identifies design criteria to protect soil and wateresources. Timber sale contracts will include provisions to meet water quality, soils, and otheresources as directed by the Decision.

14.02

TIMBER HARVEST UNIT DESIGN - To insure that timber harvest unit design will secure favorable conditions of water flow, maintain water quality and soil productivity, and reduce soil erosion and sedimentation.

All Activities

1. Cumulative effects analysis and unit design 

were performed by IDT. 

2. The prescriptions and unit design are 

consistent with direction outlined in the considerations for Best Management Practices. 

3. Use standard interim RHCA widths unless 

modified through watershed analysis. 

4. Use exiting skid trails where feasible.

Proposed activities were evaluated to estimate the potential watershed response. Prescriptions will be designed to assure an acceptable level oprotection for soil and water resources. Management will protect soil/water values by avoiding sensitive areas, adjusting unit boundaries, adding specific BMPs to meet specific SWCPs, implementing the KNF RipariaArea Guidelines, applying mitigation, and applying implementation/effectiveness monitoring.

14.03

USE OF SALE AREA MAPS (SAMs) FOR DESIGNATING SOIL AND WATER PROTECTION NEEDS - To delineate the location of protected areas and available water sources and insure their recognition, proper consideration, 

All Activities

1. Water courses identified and protected 

using SMZ buffers as a minimum. 

2. Skidding on soil when moisture is <18%. 3. Designated skid trails in units with previous 

harvest. 

4. Use standard interim RHCA widths unless 

modified through watershed analysis.

The IDT will identify water courses to be protected, unit boundaries, and other features required by other means such as "C" provisionsGround verification and preparation of SAMs to be included in TSC will be done by PSF. TSA reviews areas of concern with purchaser before operations.
 Bes

 

Trego EA 

Appendix B - 4 

SWCP SWCP OBJECTIVE APPLICABLE UNITS/ROADS RECOMMENDED BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES BY IDT/TSA CONSIDERATIONS FOR BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 

and protection on the ground.

14.04

LIMITING THE OPERATION PERIOD OF TIMBER SALE ACTIVITIES - To minimize soil erosion, sedimentation, and a loss in soil productivity by insuring that the purchaser conducts his/her operations in a timely manner.

Units 8, 24, 34, 

and 42 will be 

winter 

harvested 

1. Units located on soils sensitive to 

compaction and/or displacement have been identified. 

2. Designate units needing harvest on frozen 

or snow covered ground. 

3. All other ground disturbing activities will 

occur during dry, frozen, or snow-covered conditions.

If limited operating periods are identified and recommended during the analysis by the IDT, thPSF will prepare a contract that includes provision C(T)6.316 and/or C(T)6.4#.

14.05

PROTECTION OF UNSTABLE AREAS - To protect unstable areas and avoid triggering mass movements of the soil mantle and resultant erosion and sedimentation.

All Activities 

1. Unstable landtypes will be identified during 

the planning process. 

2. Units found to need further protection will 

use alternative yarding techniques, seasonal restrictions, and/or unit boundary adjustments.

If the NEPA analysis concluded that soils/geology in the area were unstable, BMPs would be designed to prevent irreversible soil and water damage.

14.06

RIPARIAN AREA DESIGNATION - To minimize the adverse effects on riparian areas with prescriptions that manage nearby logging and related land disturbance activities.

All Activities

1. Identify areas with or adjacent to wet areas.2. Default RHCA widths will be adhered to 

unless modified through watershed analysis. 

3. SMZ widths will be used as a minimum if 

modification is proposed. 

4. Areas found during sale layout will be 

reported to the Hydrologist and afforded the same protections as those identified earlier. 

All streams and wetlands in the decision area wcomply with KNF Riparian Area Guidelines (Appendix 26) and KNF Forest Plan as amendeby INFS/UCRB. The width of the riparian areas will be decided upon by the IDT. These widths will be included on the sale area map and marked on the ground. This information will be included in the timber sale contract.

14.07

DETERMINING TRACTORLOGGABLE GROUND - To protect water quality from degradation caused by tractor logging ground disturbance.

All Activities

1. Tractor loggable units have been identified 

during the planning process. 

2. Those areas found not to be tractor 

loggable were designated as cable, forwarder, or winter harvest units; or were dropped form the unit. 

IDT has identified tractor-loggable ground (in conjunction with personnel from timber operations) during transportation and timber sale planning process. The results have been used to determine intensity of and restrictions for land disturbance activities. PSF will prepare a TSC that includes provisions stating areas anconditions under which tractors can operate.

14.08

TRACTOR SKIDDING DESIGN - To minimize erosion and sedimentation and protect soil productivity by designing skidding patterns to best fit the terrain.

All Activities

1. Identify units with designated or dispersed 

skid trails. 

2. TSA and purchaser agree on proposed 

locations before operation. 

IDT has identified sensitive areas during the planning process. The TSA will execute the plan on the ground by locating the skid trails with the timber purchaser or by agreeing to the purchaser's proposed locations prior to operation.

14.09

SUSPENDED LOG YARDING IN TIMBER HARVESTING - To protect the soil from excessive disturbance and accelerated erosion and maintain the integrity of the riparian areas and other sensitive areas.

N/A 

1. Units that have slopes that are unsuitable 

for or sensitive to ground base skidding will be identified. 

2. Units with sustained slopes >40% will be 

designated cable harvest units. 

IDT recognizes the hazards associated with operating on steep and/or rocky slopes. Areas found to be of concern will use appropriate harvest systems that provide for a safe work environment and protect natural resources.

14.10 LOG LANDING LOCATION AND DESIGN - To locate in such a way All Activities 1. TSA and purchaser agree on landing locations before operation. TSA must agree to landing locations proposed by the purchaser. Approved landing locations 
 Bes

 

Trego EA 

Appendix B - 5 

SWCP SWCP OBJECTIVE APPLICABLE UNITS/ROADS RECOMMENDED BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES BY IDT/TSA CONSIDERATIONS FOR BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 

as to avoid soil erosion and water quality degradation.

2. Use least excavation needed. 3. No side-cast material into sensitive areas 

or waterways. 

4. Install proper drainage.

will meet the criteria of: minimal size, least excavation needed, minimum skid roads necessary, no side-cast material into sensitive areas, and have proper drainage.

14.11

LOG LANDING EROSION PREVENTION AND CONTROL- To reduce erosion and subsequent sedimentation from log landing through the use of mitigating measures.

All Activities

1. Proper drainage will be installed and 

maintained during operation. 

2. Landings will be scarified, seeded and 

fertilized upon completion harvest activities. 

3. TSA will assess conditions and take 

necessary steps to ensure soil and water protection.

PSF and TSA assess what is necessary to prevent erosion from landing and to ensure stabilization. It is up to the TSA to request technical assistance as needed.

14.12

EROSION PREVENTION AND CONTROL MEASURES DURING THE TIMBER SALE OPERATION - To ensure that the purchaser's operations shall be conducted reasonably to minimize soil erosion.

All Activities

1. Designate units with seasonal restrictions. 2. Do not operate during wet periods 

including spring-snowmelt and/or intense or long-duration rain storms. 

3. TSA ensures that erosion control is kept 

current and prevents operation when excessive impacts are possible.

PSF and TSA sets purchaser's responsibility to prevent soil/water resource damage in TSC. TSA ensures that erosion control is kept current and prevents operation when excessive impacts are possible.

14.13

SPECIAL EROSION PREVENTION MEASURES ON AREAS DISTURBED BY HARVEST ACTIVITIES - To prevent erosion and sedimentation on disturbed areas.

All Activities

1. Waterbar, seed, and fertilize skid trails and 

landings. 

2. Rehabilitate constructed skid trails and 

temporary roads. 

3. BMPs may be adjusted by the TSA to 

meet operational requirements

IDT identifies locations needing special stabilization measures. If any such areas are identified, BMPs may be adjusted by the TSA to meet operational requirements

14.14

REVEGETATION OF AREAS DISTURBED BY HARVEST ACTIVITIES - To establish a vegetative cover on disturbed areas to prevent erosion and sedimentation.

All Activities

1. Seed and fertilize areas of exposed soil 

with KNF approved vegetative and fertilizer mix. 

IDT has established vegetation and fertilizer mix to be used in the project area with outlines on the extent to which it should be used. TSA is responsible for seeing that revegetation work required by purchaser is done correctly and in a timely manner. The purchaser will be responsible for revegetation immediately after the completion of harvest. Funds will be collected for the District to do follow-up seeding/fertilizing in years two and three after harvest.

14.15

EROSION CONTROL ON SKID TRAILS - To protect water quality by minimizing erosion and sedimentation derived from skid trails.

All Activities 

1. Ensure proper skid trail location. 2. Ensure proper drainage on skid trails. 3. Rehabilitate constructed skid trails and 

temporary roads. 

4. Ensure maintenance of erosion control 

structures by purchaser. 

Erosion control measures may be recommended by the IDT, but site-specifically adjusted by the TSA. TSA will ensure erosion control measures are applied prior to expected hydrologic events (spring runoff, high-intensity storms, etc.). Maintenance of erosion control structures by the purchaser may be necessary and requested by the TSA.

14.16

WET MEADOW PROTECTION DURING TIMBER HARVESTING - To avoid damage to the ground 

Unit 42 has an 

STA and will 

be winter 

1. Identify units with or adjacent to wet 

meadows. 

2. Units with unmapped wet areas will be 

IDT has identified areas needing special protection. PSF will verify the areas needing protection and prepare the contract to prevent 
 Bes

 

Trego EA 

Appendix B - 6 

SWCP SWCP OBJECTIVE APPLICABLE UNITS/ROADS RECOMMENDED BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES BY IDT/TSA CONSIDERATIONS FOR BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 

cover, soil, and water in meadows. harvested reported to Hydrologist and afforded the 

same protection as those identified during the planning process. 

3. Standard interim RHCA widths will be 

adhered to unless modification is in place. 

2. SMZ law will be met or exceeded. 

damage to meadows. The TSA will be responsible for on-the-ground protection of meadows. If meadows are found by the TSA during operations, it is their responsibility to either afford them the proper protection or pursue a contract modification.

14.17

STREAM CHANNEL PROTECTION (IMPLEMENTATION AND ENFORCEMENT) - Protect natural stream flows; provide unobstructed passage of flows; reduce sediment input; and restore flow if diverted by timber sale activity.

All Activities

1. Standard interim RHCA widths will be 

adhered to unless modification is in place. 

2. SMZ widths will be used at a minimum if 

modification in place. 

3. SMZ law will be met or exceeded.

IDT has identified the location of channels in the decision area. PSF will prepare a SAM locating the channels needing protection. Layout crew marks boundaries and trees according to HB731 and FP guidelines. TSA will see that TSC items are carried out on the ground. Technical assistance will be consulted as needed.

14.18

EROSION CONTROL STRUCTURE MAINTENANCE - To insure that constructed erosion control structures are stabilized and working effectively.

All Activities

1. During the period of the TSC, the 

purchaser is responsible for maintaining their erosion control features.

During the period of the TSC, the purchaser is responsible for maintaining their erosion control features. If work is needed beyond this time, the District will pursue other sources of funding.

14.19

ACCEPTANCE OF TIMBER SALE EROSION CONTROL MEASURES BEFORE SALE CLOSURE - To assure the adequacy of required erosion control work on timber sales.

All Activities

1. TSA reviews erosion prevention work 

before each harvest unit is considered complete. 

2. The inspection will determine if the work is 

acceptable and will meet the objective of the erosion control feature. 

A careful review of erosion prevention work will be made by the TSA before each harvest unit is considered complete. The inspection will determine if the work is acceptable and will meet the objective of the erosion control featureA feature is considered not acceptable if it does not meet standards or is not expected to protecsoil/water values. Technical assistance will be used as necessary.

14.20

SLASH TREATMENT IN SENSITIVE AREAS - To protect water quality by protecting sensitive tributary areas from degradation that would result from using mechanized equipment for slash disposal.

Units 1, 24, 34, 

and 66 

Unit 17 will be 

hand piled 

1. Where harvest is proposed within riparian 

areas, either slash should be removed with the tree or scattered and not treated. 

2. Mechanical fuels treatments should not be 

used on sensitive landtypes (slopes > 45%). 

All activities will comply with the KNF Riparian Area Guidelines (FP, Appendix 26). Where harvest within riparian areas is proposed, either the slash would be removed with the tree or scattered and not treated.

14.22

MODIFICATION OF THE TSC - To modify the TSC if new circumstances or conditions indicate the timber sale will cause irreversible damage to soil, water, or watershed values.

All Activities 1. Environmental modification procedure. 

If TSC is not adequate to protect soil/water resources, the TSA and Contracting Officer are responsible for recommending modification of the TSC.

15.01

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR TRANSPORTATION PLANNING - To introduce soil and water resource considerations into transportation planning.

All Roads

1. Complete a roads analysis. 2. Transportation plans include installation 

and maintaining proper drainage. 

A roads Analysis has been completed. The IDT has evaluated watershed characteristics and estimated the response of soil and water resources to proposed transportation alternatives and activities.

15.02 GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR THE New Road and 1. Follow INFS Standards and Guidelines for The IDT has insured that the location and 
 Bes

 

Trego EA 

Appendix B - 7 

SWCP SWCP OBJECTIVE APPLICABLE UNITS/ROADS RECOMMENDED BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES BY IDT/TSA CONSIDERATIONS FOR BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 

LOCATION AND DESIGN OF ROADS AND TRAILS - To locate and design roads and trails with minimal soil and water impact while considering all design criteria.

Trail 

Construction

road management. 

2. Identify sensitive landtypes, riparian areas, 

and wetlands during planning. 

3. Use the minimum amount of roads and 

trails necessary. 

design of roads and trails are based on multiple resource objectives. Mitigation measures have been designed to protect the soil and water resources identified in the NEPA process. Contract provisions will be prepared by the ER that meets the soil and water resource protection requirements.

15.03

ROAD AND TRAIL EROSION CONTROL PLAN - To prevent, limit, and mitigate erosion, sedimentation, and resulting water quality degradation prior to the initiation of construction by timely implementation of erosion control practices.

New Road and 

Trail 

Construction

1. Seed and fertilize disturbed areas. 2. Install proper ditching and road slope. 3. Install proper drainage. 4. Incorporate road grade breaks. 5. Use minimum road or trail length/width 

necessary. 

6. Avoid wet areas or areas of sensitive soil 

types. 

IDT has established soil/water conservation objectives and mitigation measures. ER will theprepare a contract that reflects the objectives. ER will see that erosion control measures are approved and completed in a timely manner. IDT reviews projects to check effectiveness of erosion control features.

15.04

TIMING OF CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES - To minimize erosion by conducting operations during minimal runoff periods.

New Road and 

Trail 

Construction

1. Avoid construction during wet periods. 

IDT has outlined detailed erosion control measures in NEPA process. ER puts these measures into contract provisions. Compliance is assured by Contracting Officer or ER.

15.05

SLOPE STABILIZATION AND PREVENTION OF MASS FAILURES - To reduce sedimentation by minimizing the chances for road-related mass failures, including landslides and embankment slumps.

New Road and 

Trail 

Construction

1. Avoid construction across unstable areas. 2. Construct embankments following 

approved engineering practices. 

3. Use minimum road or trail length/width 

necessary. 

Road and trail construction in mountainous terrain requires cutting and loading natural slopes which may lead to landslides and/or embankment failures. In areas with intrinsic slope stability problems, appropriate technical resource personnel must be involved in an interdisciplinary approach to route location. 

15.06

MITIGATION OF SURFACE EROSION AND STABILIZATION OF SLOPES - To minimize soil erosion from road cutslopes, fill slopes, and travel ways.

All Haul Roads

1. Seed and fertilize cut and fill slopes. 2. Install proper ditching and road slope. 3. Install proper drainage. 4. Incorporate road grade breaks. 5. Install ditch relief culverts before/after 

stream crossings. 

IDT has outlined detailed erosion control measures in the NEPA process. Stabilization techniques are included in contract provisions. Compliance is assured by Contracting Officer oER.

15.07

CONTROL OF PERMANENT ROAD DRAINAGE - To minimize the erosive effects of concentrated water and degradation of water quality by proper design and construction of road drainage systems and drainage control structures.

All Haul Roads

1. Avoid long, steep grades. 2. Maintain adequate surface drainage. 3. Prevent erosion of culvert fills. 4. Maintain ditches. 5. Ditch relief culverts before/after stream 

crossings. 

IDT has identified locations, design criteria, drainage control features, and mitigation. Compliance will be assured by the ER/Contracting Officer.

15.08

PIONEER ROAD CONSTRUCTION - To minimize sediment production and mass wasting associated with 

New Road and 

Trail 

Construction

1. Ensure stable slopes during construction. 2. Seed and fertilize exposed soil. 3. Avoid construction during wet periods. 

ER/Contracting Officer will be responsible for enforcing contract specifications. The purchaseis responsible for submitting an operating plan 
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Trego EA 

Appendix B - 8 

SWCP SWCP OBJECTIVE APPLICABLE UNITS/ROADS RECOMMENDED BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES BY IDT/TSA CONSIDERATIONS FOR BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 

pioneer road construction. 4. Use slash filter windrows. that includes erosion control measures. 

15.09

TIMELY EROSION CONTROL MEASURES ON INCOMPLETE ROADS AND STREAM CROSSING PROJECTS - To minimize erosion of and sedimentation from disturbed ground on incomplete projects.

All Road 

construction, 

reconstruction, 

and 

maintenance

1. Avoid construction during wet periods. 2. Use slash filter windrows or silt fence. 3. Seed and fertilize disturbed areas. 

IDT has identified project location and mitigation measures in NEPA process. Protective measures will be kept current on all areas of disturbed, erosion-prone areas. TSA ensures contract compliance.

15.10

CONTROL OF ROAD CONSTRUCTION, EXCAVATION, AND SIDE-CAST MATERIAL - To reduce sedimentation from unconsolidated excavated and sidecast material caused by road construction, reconstruction, or maintenance.

All Road 

construction, 

reconstruction, 

and 

maintenance

1. Do not side-cast into waterways or 

sensitive areas. 

2. Use slash filter windrows or silt fence. 

IDT has identified project location and mitigation measures in NEPA process. Protective measures will be kept current on all areas of disturbed, erosion-prone areas. TSA ensures contract compliance.

15.11

SERVICING AND REFUELING EQUIPMENT - To prevent contamination of waters from accidental spills of fuels, lubricants, bitumens, and other harmful materials.

All Activities

1. Ensure proper fuel storage and 

transportation. 

2. Keep fuel from streams, wetlands, ponds, 

and lakes. 

ER/TSA/Contracting Officer will designate the location, size, and uses of service refueling areas. All projects will adhere to the KNF Hazardous Substance Spill Plan in case of accidents.

15.12

CONTROL OF CONSTRUCTION IN RIPARIAN AREAS - To minimize the adverse effects on riparian areas from roads.

New Road and 

Temporary 

Road 

Construction

1. Follow INFS Standards and Guidelines for 

construction within riparian areas. 

2. Use slash filter windrows or silt fence. 3. Install ditch relief culverts and surface 

water deflectors before/after stream crossings. 

Proposed new and temporary roads will adhere to guidelines in the Montana Streamside Management Zone Law (HB-731). All road activities will follow INFS Standards and Guidelines for road management.

15.13

CONTROLLING IN-CHANNEL EXCAVATION - To minimize stream channel disturbances and related sediment production.

All Road 

construction, 

reconstruction, 

and 

maintenance

1. Use silt fence to minimize introduced 

sediment. 

2. Use minimum amount of road. 3. Construct minimum number of crossings. 

BMP improvements at crossings would adhere to the guidelines in Montana Streamside Management Zone Law (HB-731) and the INFS Standards and Guidelines for road management.

15.14

DIVERSION OF FLOWS AROUND CONSTRUCTION SITES - To minimize downstream sedimentation by insuring all stream diversions are carefully planned.

All Work at 

Stream 

Crossings

1. Divert streamflow around construction. 2. Use silt fence to minimize introduced 

sediment. 

3. Construction during low-flow 

The IDT has determined, where stream crossings meet multiple resource objectives, the crossings would require a State 124 permit. Thiwould require the State Fish, Wildlife, and Parks to review the adequacy of the proposed mitigation. Compliance with contract provisions 

would be done by the ER.

15.15

STREAM CROSSINGS ON TEMPORARY ROADS - To keep temporary roads from unduly damaging streams, disturbing channels, or obstructing fish passage.

N/A

1. Consult Hydrologist on placement of 

crossing 

2. Use minimum number of stream 

crossings. 

3. Construction during low-flow. 

4. Follow INFS Standards and Guidelines for 

The IDT identifies areas in need of a temporary road during the NEPA process. Proposed stream crossings would adhere to the guidelinein Montana Streamside Management Zone Law (HB-731).
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Trego EA 

Appendix B - 9 

SWCP SWCP OBJECTIVE APPLICABLE UNITS/ROADS RECOMMENDED BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES BY IDT/TSA CONSIDERATIONS FOR BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 

construction within riparian areas. 

15.16

BRIDGE AND CULVERT INSTALLATION - To minimize sedimentation and turbidity resulting from excavation for in-channel structures.

All Road 

construction, 

reconstruction, 

and 

maintenance

1. Installation should be done during periods 

of low flow. 

2. Instream sediment retention devices 

should be used throughout implementation.

IDT has identified project location and mitigation measures in NEPA process. Protective measures will be kept current on all areas of disturbed, erosion-prone areas. TSA ensures contract compliance.

15.17

REGULATION OF BORROW PITS, GRAVEL SOURCES, AND QUARRIES - To minimize sediment production from borrow pits, gravel sources, and quarries and limit channel disturbance in those gravel sources suitable for development in floodplains.

N/A 

15.18

DISPOSAL OF RIGHT-OF-WAY AND ROADSIDE DEBRIS - To insure that debris generated during road construction is kept out of streams and prevent slash and debris from subsequently obstructing channels.

All Road 

construction, 

reconstruction, 

and 

maintenance

1. Debris and slash generated during road 

construction should not be side-cast into streams. 

Proposed road construction will adhere to the guidelines in the Montana Streamside Management Zone Law (HB-731).

15.19

STREAM BANK PROTECTION – To minimize sediment production from stream banks and structural abutments in natural waterways.

All Road 

construction, 

reconstruction, 

and 

maintenance

1. Take precautions to minimize or eliminate 

disturbance to stream banks. 

2. Maintain instream structures. 

IDT has identified project location and mitigation measures during NEPA process. Protective measures will be kept current on all areas of disturbed soils. TSA and ER ensures contract compliance. 

15.20

WATER SOURCE DEVELOPMENT CONSISTENT WITH WATER QUALITY PROTECTION - To supply water for road construction and maintenance and fire protection while maintaining water quality.

N/A 

15.21

MAINTENANCE OF ROADS - To maintain all roads in a manner that provides for soil and water protection by minimizing rutting, failures, side-cast, and blockage of drainage facilities.

All Road 

reconstruction, 

and 

maintenance

1. Contract Clause CT 5.31#. 

Road maintenance associated with a timber sale is the responsibility of purchaser. The ER/SA will ensure that the purchaser maintains roads according to the appropriate maintenance level.

15.22

ROAD SURFACE TREATMENT TO PREVENT LOSS OF MATERIALS - To minimize the erosion of road surface materials and, consequently, reduce the likelihood of sediment production.

All Haul Roads

1. Maintenance of road surface should 

include proper blading and/or dust abatement. 

2. Use crush-gravel where necessary. 

Protective measures will be kept current on all areas of disturbed, erosion-prone areas. ER ensures contract compliance.

15.23 TRAFFIC CONTROL DURING WET PERIODS - To reduce the potential All Haul Roads 1. Avoid hauling during wet periods. Road restrictions and traffic control measures will be implemented on all haul roads when 
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Trego EA 

Appendix B - 10 

SWCP SWCP OBJECTIVE APPLICABLE UNITS/ROADS RECOMMENDED BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES BY IDT/TSA CONSIDERATIONS FOR BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES 

for road surface disturbance during wet weather and reduce sedimentation.

damage would occur during spring breakup. Thdecision to restrict a road is made by the ER. Hauling restrictions would be controlled by the TSA.

15.24 SNOW REMOVAL CONTROLS - To 

minimize the impact of snow melt on road surfaces and embankments and reduce the probability of sediment production resulting from snow removal operations.

All Winter Haul 

Roads

1. Be careful not to leave snow berm at edge 

of road. 

2. Ensure proper drainage by opening 

sections of berm to allow water to leave road surface. 

Snow removal will be kept current on all roads associated with winter logging operations. The TSA ensures compliance with contract provisions.

15.25 OBLITERATION OF TEMPORARY 

ROADS - To reduce sediment generated from temporary roads by obliterating them at the completion of their intended use.

N/A

1. Re-contour road fully where feasible. 2. Seed and fertilize exposed soil. 3. Pull slash and woody debris back onto 

rehabilitated road. 

This work will be done on all new temporary roads in the decision area. The work will be done by the purchaser with compliance by the TSA.

18.03 PROTECTION OF SOIL AND 

WATER FROM PRESCRIBED BURNING EFFECTS - To maintain soil productivity, minimize erosion, and prevent ash, sediment, nutrients, and debris from entering surface water.

All Prescribed 

Burning

1. Follow INFS Standards and Guidelines for 

burning in RHCAs. 

2. Adhere to SMZ Law. 3. Where harvest within riparian areas is 

proposed, either the slash should be removed with the tree or scattered and not treated. 

Broadcast burning adjacent to riparian areas wiadhere to guidelines in the Montana Streamside Management Zone Law (HB-731). Prescribed burn plans identify the conditions necessary to prevent soil damage and meet site preparation objectives.
Monitoring Plan 

Appendix 

C 
Monitoring Plan 

Appendix C

Trego EA 

Appendix C-1 

RESOURCE MONITORING

Several sources of funding are available for resource monitoring. No assignment of funding source to the 

monitoring will be made at this time because future availability of funds is unknown. Completion of these 

monitoring items is dependent upon available funding. 

I. SOILS 

1. What: Monitor soil moisture conditions prior to allowing tractor skidding to assure compliance with 

soil moisture guidelines that limit tractor skidding when moisture is above 18%. Soils are more 

vulnerable to compaction when soil moisture exceeds 18%. 

 

Who: Timber Sale Administrator. 

 

How: Soil moisture sampling at representative sites within tractor units. This activity is part of normal 

contract administration, and therefore would be accomplished if a timber sale sells. 

 

When: Before allowing cutting of timber or skidding on tractor units, and following precipitation events 

that have the potential to raise soil moistures above 18%. 

2. What: Soil disturbance resulting from logging and related operations may be monitored as part of the 

Forest Plan monitoring program. 

 

Who: Forest Soil Scientist, District Hydrologist. 

How: Transects in representative harvest units to determine percent soil disturbance. Monitoring will 

be conducted on sample basis as part of Forest Plan monitoring. Units from this particular 

project may or may not be selected for monitoring. 

 

When: Following harvest and fuels treatment activities. 

3. What: Monitor coarse woody debris (CWD) in harvest units as outlined in the Management 

Requirements and Design Criteria found in Chapter 2 of this document. 

Who: District Hydrologist 

How: Transects in representative harvest units to determine mean tons per acre of CWD. Monitoring 

will be conducted on sample basis as part of larger data set. Units from this particular project 

may or may not be selected for monitoring.

When: Following harvest and fuels treatment activities.

II. FUELS REDUCTION 

1. What: Fuel moisture conditions would be monitored prior to prescribed burning to ensure that 

 objectives of fuels reduction prescriptions are met. 

 

Who: Fire Management Officer, Burn Boss 

 

How: Use standard fuel moisture monitoring techniques. Funding for this monitoring would come from 

brush disposal. 
Monitoring Plan 

Appendix C

Trego EA 

Appendix C-2 

When: Prior to planned ignition. 

III. VEGETATION/TIMBER MANAGEMENT 

1. What: Reforestation surveys in regeneration harvest units to ensure restocking standards are met. 

 

Who: Silviculturist 

 

How: Standard reforestation survey techniques would be used to determine reforestation status. 

Reforestation surveys would be funded with protected KV funds, which are guaranteed if timber 

is sold. 

When: At a minimum, surveys would generally occur during the first, third and fifth years following 

initiation of natural or artificial regeneration. 

2. What: Compliance with the timber sale contract. 

 

Who: Timber Sale Administrator 

 

How: This monitoring would occur as a fundamental component of timber sale administration. 

Funding would be guaranteed if a timber sale were sold. Minor contract changes or 

modifications would be enacted when necessary to meet objectives and standards on the 

ground, when agreed to by the Forest Service and timber sale purchaser. 

 

When: During life of the contract. 

3. What: Post-harvest surveys to validate silvicultural prescriptions. The objective is to determine 

whether prescription revisions are needed before the next phases of the project (site 

preparation and reforestation) take place. 

 

Who: Silviculturist 

 

How: Walk through surveys and transects. Conducted with protected KV funds on regeneration 

harvested units. For intermediate harvest units, implementation is dependent on KV funding 

levels, and may not occur if adequate funds are not generated by the sale or if workloads or 

priorities supercede surveys. 

 

When: After harvest and prior to site preparation. 

IV. ROADS 

1. What: Monitor road maintenance for BMP implementation and effectiveness. 

 

Who: Engineering Representative/COR, Timber Sale Administrator, and District Hydrologist, IDT. 

 

How: On-site inspections conducted as part of contract inspection. Implementation guaranteed when 

sale is sold. Effectiveness monitoring would occur during Forest Plan BMP monitoring reviews 

of selected projects. For effectiveness monitoring roads may or may not be selected for districtwide sampling. 

 
Monitoring Plan 

Appendix C

Trego EA 

Appendix C-3 

When: During and immediately following maintenance activities for implementation and post harvest 

activities. 

2. What: Monitor effectiveness of access control of roads used for sale but restricted for public 

motorized use. Monitor effectiveness of road closure devices installed as part of sale contract 

during life of sale. 

 

 Who: Timber Sale Administrator 

 

How: As routine part of contract compliance inspections. Implementation guaranteed when sale is 

sold. 

 

When: Through life of sale contract. 

3. What: Monitor scheduled road closures and use of normally closed roads for timber harvest 

activities to determine closure effectiveness and if open road density standards are being met. 

 

Who: District Road Manager 

 

How: Site visits and communication with Timber Sale Administrator and other district personnel. 

Implementation dependent on adequate funding. 

 

When: Throughout sale activities and following road closures. 

V. WATER RESOURCES 

1. What: Implementation and effectiveness of applicable BMPs. Detailed descriptions of BMPs 

applicable to specific activities and alternatives are located in the DEIS (Appendix 2) and the 

Aquatic Resources Section of the Project File. 

 

Who: Timber Sale Administrator, Engineering Representative/COR, District Hydrologist, IDT. 

How: Implementation would be documented with BMP inspection reports and/or Timber Sale 

Inspection Reports. This monitoring would occur as a fundamental component of timber sale 

and road contract administration. This may also be included in the Forest Plan BMP monitoring 

program. Inspection reports would be completed as part of the annual district BMP 

effectiveness monitoring program. Only a portion of this project may be selected for Districtwide BMP effectiveness sampling. 

 

When: Implementation inspection reports would be completed as applicable during and immediately 

following project activities. If selected, effectiveness inspections could be conducted one to five 

years after implementation. 

2. What: Monitor protection and management of stream channels, riparian areas, and riparian 

habitat conservation areas (RHCAs) during timber harvest and road reconstruction. 

Who: Timber Sale Administrator, Engineering Representative/COR, District Hydrologist. 

How: This monitoring would occur as a fundamental component of timber sale administration. 

 
Monitoring Plan 

Appendix C

Trego EA 

Appendix C-4 

When: During implementation of activities that occur in or near riparian areas or wetlands. 

3. What: Monitor success of revegetation efforts on disturbed sites such as skid trails, landings, 

temporary roads, and road cuts/fills. 

 

Who: Timber Sale Administrator, District Hydrologist. 

 

How: Field inspection of seeded sites at the close of the sale and 2 to 3 years after the sale. 

 

When: Sites are inspected to ensure initial seeding and success in the years following the initial 

seeding. Additional seeding will then be done if the success rate is low. 

4. What: Water quantity and quality monitoring. 

 

Who: District Hydrologist. 

 

How: Field collection of streamflow, temperature, and suspended sediment samples, following USGS 

protocols. 

When: Periodically throughout the year as part of a larger data set across the district. 

5. What: Channel geometry monitoring to assess trends in channel condition. 

Who: District Hydrologist. 

 

How: Repeated cross section and channel geometry surveying in designated, monumented reaches. 

When: Every three to five years for sites within the planning subunit. 

6. What: Monitor fish population size and structure. 

Who: District Fish Biologist, District Hydrologist. 

How: Repeated electro-fishing in designated reaches to monitor changes in population size and 

structure. 

When: Every three to five years. 

VI. NOXIOUS WEEDS 

1. What: Monitor compliance with timber sale contract clause CT6.351# requiring washing of off-road 

logging equipment prior to entering sale area. 

 

Who: Timber Sale Administrator 

 

How: Visual inspection. Part of routine contract administration - implementation guaranteed. 

 

When: Prior to logging equipment being moved into the sale area. 
Monitoring Plan 

Appendix C

Trego EA 

Appendix C-5 

2. What: Noxious weed monitoring along roads and disturbed sites (landings, skid trails, fire lines) 

within the analysis area. If detected, sites would be incorporated into District Noxious Weed 

Control Program. 

 

Who: Weed Management Coordinator 

How: On site inspections and gathering reports from other personnel. Dependent upon adequate KV 

and appropriated funding. 

 

When: Every other year for up to ten years after sale activities, during resource surveys. 

VII. WILDLIFE 

1. What: Collect reserve tree and snag numbers marked in regeneration harvest units. Survey a 

sampling of units within each VRU (2 units in each VRU represented in the analysis area). This 

item will provide baseline numbers for monitoring items 2 and 3 below. 

Who: Timber/Pre-Sale Marking Crew 

How: The timber marking crew would tally snag and reserve tree numbers during marking, and only 

in those regeneration harvest units with leave tree marking (in the sampling numbers 

discussed above). 

When: During the marking of the regeneration units that require leave tree marking.

2. What: Monitor snag retention within those regeneration harvest units surveyed in #1 (above) to 

determine if snag management strategies are meeting Forest Plan cavity habitat direction. 

Who: Silviculture crew 

How: Work will be completed concurrent with reforestation surveys. 

When: These surveys would take place after harvest and site preparation has occurred on individual 

units, but generally within five years from end of harvest. 

3. What: Monitor reserve tree retention within those regeneration harvest units surveyed in #1 (above). 

Maintenance of reserve trees insures that future cavity-nesting habitat and down woody 

recruitment are available to help provide future denning, feeding and nesting habitat. 

Who: Silviculture crew 

How: Work will be completed concurrent with reforestation surveys. 

When: These surveys would take place after harvest and site preparation have occurred on individual 

units, but generally within five years from the harvest.
Monitoring Plan 

Appendix C

Trego EA 

Appendix C-6 

4. What: Monitor the number of unburned piles per acre as outlined in the Management Requirements 

and Design Criteria found in Table 2-10 of the environmental document. These piles help 

provide structural diversity within the units and provide denning habitat and hiding cover. 

Who: AFMO (fuels), Wildlife Biologist or Hydrologist 

How: This will be monitored by one or a combination of the Fuels AFMO, Wildlife Biologist and/or the 

Hydrologist.

When: These surveys would take place after harvest and site preparation have occurred on individual 

units, but within five years from the harvest.

5. What: Monitor the proposed intermediate harvest unit within UEFF for old-growth attributes as stated 

in the Management Requirements and Design Criteria found in Table 2-10 the environmental 

document. This would give us baseline information for Item # 6 below. 

Who: Wildlife Survey Crew 

How: Measuring old growth attributes within the units listed in the Management Requirements and 

Design Criteria found in Table 2-10 of the environmental document. 

When: These surveys will take place prior to harvest of the units.

6. What: Monitor the sale requirement that intermediate harvest units located within UEFF stands would 

maintain old-growth attributes as stated in the Management Requirements and Design Criteria 

found in Table 2-10 of the environmental document. This requirement maintains old growth 

characteristics within old growth character stands according to Green and others 1992, 

corrected 2/2005.

Who: Wildlife Survey Crew 

How: Measuring old growth attributes within the units listed in the Management Requirements and 

Design Criteria found in Table 2-10 of the environmental document. 

When: These surveys would take place after harvest and site preparation has occurred on individual 

units. They will be done within 3 years of harvest.
Bibliography 

Appendix 

D 
Bibliography 

Appendix D 

Trego EA 

Appendix D-1 

Alexander et al. 1998. International Crown Fire Modeling Experiment. From: Proceedings of the Second 

Symposium on Fire and Forest Meteorology. Phoenix, AZ. 1/12-14. American Meteorological Society. Pp 20-

23. 

Arno, Stephen F., Helen Y. Smith, and Michael A. Krebs. 1997. Old Growth Ponderosa Pine and Western 

Larch Stand Structures: Influences of Pre-1900 Fires and Fire Exclusion. USDA Forest Service. Intermountain 

Research Station. INT-RP-495. Ogden, UT. 

Askins, R.A. 2000. Restoring North America’s Birds: Lessons from Landscape Ecology. Yale University 

Press. 319 pp. 

Bartelt, P.E, and C.R. Peterson. 1994. Riparian habitat utilization by western toads (Bufo boreas) and 

spotted frogs (Rana pretiosa) on the Targhee National Forest. Final Report, 11 July, 1994. Dept of Biological 

Sciences, Idaho State University, and Idaho Museum of Natural History. 

Banci, Vivian. 1994. Wolverine. Chapter 5 IN: Ruggiero, Leonard F., K.B. Aubry, S.W. Buskirk, L.J. 

Lyon, and W.J. Zielinski. (tech. Eds.) 1994. The Scientific Basis for Conserving Forest Carnivores 

American Marten, Fisher, Lynx and Wolverine in the Western United States. General Technical Report 

RM-254. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Forest and Range Experiment Station, Fort Collins, CO. 

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List of Preparers 

Appendix 

E 
List of Preparers 

Appendix E 

Trego EA 

Appendix E-1 

The following individuals were part of the Interdisciplinary Team: 

Anderson, Nancy 

Position: Archeologist 

Experience: 30 years 

Contribution: Provided cultural resources effects analysis. 

Appelhans, Jamie 

Position: Editorial Assistant 

Experience: 6 years 

Contribution: NEPA support and Writer/Editor of associated 

documents. 

Butts, Marcy 

Position: Resource Forester 

Experience: 18 years 

Contribution: Provided recreation, lands, scenic and 

minerals effects analysis. 

Burow, Mike 

Position: Forestry Technician (AFMO) 

Experience: 9 years 

Contribution: Provided fire/fuels and air quality analysis. 

Dunham, Joleen 

Position: Environmental Coordinator 

Experience: 22 years 

Contribution: Writer/Editor, IDT Leader

Flanary, Pat 

Position: Vegetation Program Manager 

Experience: 31 years 

Contribution: Diagnosis of area treatment needs, vegetation 

effects analysis and silvicultural prescriptions. Provided 

noxious weeds effects analysis. 

Garrison, Trini 

Position: District GIS Coordinator 

Experience: 16 years 

Contribution: Maintained Geographic Information system 

coverages for the project, provided assistance to the team for 

map-making and analysis. 

Hanson, Ron 

Position: Transportation Planner 

Experience: 35 years 

Contribution: Assisted in the development and analysis of 

transportation system needs. 

Kenny Kindel 

Position: District Hydrologist 

Experience: 15 years 

Contribution: Provided hydrology and soils analysis. 

Heinz, Guenter 

Position: District Wildlife Biologist 

Experience: 36 years 

Contribution: Provided wildlife habitat, fisheries, and range 

effects analysis. 

Johnson, Lynn 

Position: Wildlife Biologist 

Experience: 18 years 

Contribution: Provided wildlife habitat effects 

analysis.

Pluid, Pam 

Position: Forestry Technician 

Experience: 31 years 

Contribution: Maintained database and provided 

assistance to the team for map-making and analysis. 

The following individuals provided additional support: 

Marcy Goheen, Fire Prevention Specialist 

Scott Bates, Culturalist 

Geoff Vevera, Forestry Technician 

Ralph Gelderman, Forestry Technician 

Glenda Larson, Offset Press Operator 

Betty Holder, District Ranger 

The following individuals were consulted: 

Robert Ray of the Montana Dept. of Environmental 

Quality 

Tim Thier, MT Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, Trego 

Ben Conard, USFWS, Creston 

Steve Johnson, Forest Hydrologist 

Wayne Johnson, Forest Wildlife Biologist 

John Carlson, Forest Fisheries Biologist 

Lou Kuennen, Former Forest Soils Scientist 

John Gubel, Forest Environmental Coordinator