United States Department of Agriculture

DRAFT

Colville National Forest

Proposed Revised Land and

Resource Management Plan

for the greatest good

January 2016
Cover photo: Hooknose Peak, Sullivan Lake Ranger District

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DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Colville National Forest

Stevens, Ferry, and Pend Oreille Counties of Washington State

Responsible Official: Jim Peña

Regional Forester

Pacific Northwest Region

1220 SW 3rd Avenue 

Portland, Oregon 97208

For more Information Contact: Rodney Smoldon

Forest Supervisor

Colville National Forest

765 South Main

Colville, Washington 99114
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Contents

Chapter 1.......................................................................................................................................... 1

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

Management Challenges.............................................................................................................. 3

Introduction to the Plan ............................................................................................................... 7

Purpose of this Land Management Plan ...................................................................................... 7

Summary of the Analysis of the Management Situation ............................................................. 8

Management Context................................................................................................................... 8

Consistency with Plan Components.......................................................................................... 10

Plan Structure ............................................................................................................................ 14

Other Content – Material that is not a Plan Component............................................................ 15

Decisions Made in the Previous Forest Plan ............................................................................. 17

Planning Record ........................................................................................................................ 17

Roles and Contributions for the Colville National Forest ......................................................... 19

Chapter 2........................................................................................................................................ 23

Forestwide Direction – Introduction.......................................................................................... 23

Forestwide Direction – Landscape Features and Dynamics...................................................... 24

Forestwide Direction – Social Systems..................................................................................... 60

Chapter 3........................................................................................................................................ 77

Management Area Direction ..................................................................................................... 77

Management Area Descriptions and Desired Conditions.......................................................... 77

Chapter 4...................................................................................................................................... 127

Monitoring............................................................................................................................... 127

Appendix A – Consistency with Plan Components..................................................................... 141

Appendix B: Proposed and Possible Management Actions......................................................... 145

Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 145

Possible Management Actions................................................................................................. 148

Appendix C: Sensitive Species Summary.................................................................................... 155

Plants ....................................................................................................................................... 155

Appendix D: Scenic Integrity Objectives .................................................................................... 159

Appendix E: Suitable Uses by Management Area....................................................................... 163

List of Tables

Table 1. Soil ecological functions with attributes and indicators for long-term soil productivity. 26

Table 2. Minimum effective ground cover following any soil disturbing activity ........................ 28

Table 3. Forest structure classes .................................................................................................... 29

Table 4. Desired condition for forest structure .............................................................................. 31

Table 5. Snag and woody debris level requirements ..................................................................... 31

Table 6. Biological legacy categories............................................................................................ 32

Table 7. Key watersheds on the Colville National Forest.............................................................. 40

Table 8. Management indicator species and management activity................................................ 50

Table 9. Terrestrial wildlife species and species group for Colville National Forest .................... 51

Table 10. Grizzly bear seasonal habitats objective ........................................................................ 54

Table 11. Surrogate species habitat – watersheds for treatment .................................................... 54

Table 12. Timing standards for protection of land bird species nest sites..................................... 54

Table 13. Grizzly bear habitat standards for the shared BMUs of the Colville and Idaho 

Panhandle National Forests.................................................................................................... 55

Table 14. Timing standards for protection of bird species nest sites............................................. 59
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Table 15. Colville National Forest special areas ........................................................................... 78

Table 16. Suitable uses for Administrative and Recreation Sites management areas ................... 82

Table 17. Suitable uses for Backcountry management areas......................................................... 84

Table 18. Suitable uses for Backcountry Motorized management areas....................................... 85

Table 19. Suitable uses for Focused Restoration management area .............................................. 87

Table 20. Suitable uses for General Restoration management area............................................... 89

Table 21. Suitable uses for Nationally Designated Trails management areas............................... 93

Table 22. Colville National Forest research natural areas............................................................. 94

Table 23. Suitable uses for Research Natural Area management areas......................................... 96

Table 24. Suitable uses for Riparian Management Area ............................................................. 104

Table 25. Scenic byways within the Colville National Forest..................................................... 105

Table 26. Suitable uses for Scenic Byways management areas................................................... 106

Table 27. Suitable uses for Special Interest Area management areas.......................................... 110

Table 28. Eligible or suitable wild and scenic rivers by segment and classification................... 112

Table 29. Suitable uses in Wild and Scenic River management areas ........................................ 113

Table 30. Congressionally designated wilderness areas.............................................................. 114

Table 31. Wilderness resource spectrum class desired condition................................................ 116

Table 32. Authorization of developments in congressionally designated wilderness ................. 119

Table 33. Suitable uses for congressionally designated wilderness management area................ 122

Table 34. Recommended wilderness by name and acreage......................................................... 123

Table 35. Suitable uses for Recommended Wilderness management area.................................. 126

Table 36. Monitoring questions................................................................................................... 131

List of Figures

Figure 1. Vicinity map of the Colville National Forest ................................................................... 1

Figure 2. Colville National Forest counties and neighboring lands................................................. 2

Figure 3. Hierarchy of management direction for all national forests........................................... 16

Figure 4. Illustration of watershed hierarchy from the basin to subwatershed scale for the 

Ninemile subwatershed.......................................................................................................... 38

Figure 5. Key watersheds .............................................................................................................. 40

Figure 6. Current watershed condition class for subwatersheds across the Forest........................ 43
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1 Chapter 1

2 INTRODUCTION

3 Located in the northeastern corner of Washington State, the Colville National Forest lies within 

4 a remote area of wild beauty and rich history. Encompassing 1.1 million acres, the Colville 

5 occupies nearly one one-third of the total area of Ferry, Pend Oreille, and Stevens Counties. To 

6 the north, the national forest is bordered by British Columbia; to the west by the Okanogan7 Wenatchee National Forest; to the east by the Idaho Panhandle National Forest; and to the 

8 south by a portion of the Colville Confederated Tribes Indian Reservation. Lincoln and Spokane 

9 Counties, though not immediately adjacent, are within the Colville National Forest's area of 

10 influence. If these two counties are included, the influence area of the national forest accounts 

11 for almost 10 percent of the total state population. Visitation from other areas, such as 

12 Okanogan County, may also be substantial and, if considered, would enlarge the Colville’s area

13 of influence.

14

15 Figure 1. Vicinity map of the Colville National Forest

16 Visitors access the Colville National Forest from one Federal (U.S. 395) and three State highways 

17 (Highways 21, 25, and 31) that mostly follow the north–south drainages, and from State 

18 Highway 20, which transects the middle of the national forest in a west–east direction. Three 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan 

Chapter 1 – Introduction

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19 recognized scenic byways bisect the Colville: The Sherman Pass and North Pend Oreille National 

20 Scenic Byways and the International Selkirk Loop (designated an All-American Road). Numerous 

21 National Forest System roads and trails provide access to gathering sites for forest products and 

22 a diversity of developed and dispersed, outdoor, rustic recreation opportunities.

23 Two north−south oriented mountain ranges comprise the bulk of the Colville National Forest: 

24 the 7,000-foot Selkirk Range (featuring the outstanding high-country Salmo-Priest Wilderness) 

25 and the Kettle River Range. The Pend Oreille River, surrounded by mostly private land, runs 

26 along the western edge of the Selkirks. The 130-mile-long Lake Roosevelt National Recreation 

27 Area, a segment of the Columbia River reservoir created by Grand Coulee Dam, divides the 

28 national forest. The National Recreation Area draws thousands of visitors to this remote corner 

29 of Washington State each year.

30

31 Figure 2. Colville National Forest counties and neighboring lands

32 Three vegetation zones comprise Colville National Forest, each with a unique climate and 

33 topography. Dry forests of ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir dominate the rolling landscape of the 

34 Okanogan Highlands west of the Kettle Crest. The subalpine fir types along the Kettle Crest 

35 separate the western portion of the national forest from the lush valleys and richly forested 

36 mountains to the east where rainfall reaches 50 inches a year in the Salmo-Priest Wilderness. 

37 Western redcedar and western hemlock forests are comparable to those on the west side of the 

38 North Cascades Range. Wildlife including bull trout, grizzly bear, woodland caribou, moose, 

39 wolf, and bald eagle inhabit regions of the Colville.
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40 All water flowing from the Colville National Forest eventually drains into the Columbia River. 

41 Major drainages include the Pend Oreille, Colville, Kettle, and Sanpoil Rivers. The national forest 

42 contains approximately 500 miles of fish-bearing streams and about 100 lakes and ponds.

43 Principal ecosystem services are timber, wildlife, fish, water, forage, and recreation. Timber 

44 harvest remains one of the primary ways the Colville National Forest meets economic needs. 

45 Between 1988 and 2014, timber harvest levels averaged 47.6 million board feet (MMBF) per 

46 year. The amount of timber sold has declined over the life of the 1988 Forest Plan from a high of 

47 134 MMBF in 1989 to a low of 18 MMBF in 2005 (with an average of 43.5 MMBF per year 

48 during the last 5 years). Approximately 10 percent of the annual volume the national forest sells 

49 is non-commercial material such as firewood or biomass. During the most recent 10-year 

50 period, the Colville supported an average of 29,500 animal unit months of forage for cattle 

51 grazing. The national forest currently has a total of 58 grazing allotments that cover 

52 810,000 acres. Grazing on the Colville National Forest generally occurs from June through 

53 October.

54 With an estimated 336,000 visits per year, the Colville National Forest is a popular retreat for 

55 activities including camping, winter sports, forest product gathering, off-highway vehicle use, 

56 four-season trail use, driving for pleasure, snowmobiling, backcountry travel, hunting, fishing, 

57 and wildlife viewing. Combined, day-use and overnight recreation opportunities contribute an 

58 estimated $7.5 million (in 2003 dollars) in annual revenues to communities located within 

59 50 miles of the national forest. (2009 NVUM Master Report)

60 Approximately 4,000 miles of National Forest System roads provide access to recreation areas 

61 and places to collect renewable forest products such as firewood, berries, mushrooms, and 

62 Christmas trees. The Colville National Forest manages 32 campgrounds, 2 eligible wild and 

63 scenic rivers, the Salmo-Priest Wilderness, 197 miles of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic 

64 Trail, 49 Degrees North Mountain Resort, and 15 recreation residences.

65 MANAGEMENT CHALLENGES

66 Managing the Colville National Forest to continue providing public benefits includes making 

67 available recreation access, facilities, and services; supplying renewable and non-renewable 

68 forest products; and providing roads, services, and accommodations to support local 

69 economies. It also encompasses protecting clean water sources, aquatic and terrestrial habitat 

70 for species of fish, plants, and wildlife; and preserving heritage resources. And, each year, forest 

71 managers focus more on providing quiet, natural places for personal renewal while emphasizing 

72 planning and restoration of forest ecosystems to make them more resilient to changing 

73 climates. 

74 Challenges forest managers face in providing these benefits include population growth, 

75 urbanization, appropriate recreational use, access, climate change, vegetation and wildlife 

76 diseases, wildland fire, invasive non-native species management, and protection of natural 

77 resources. Discussion of these challenges follows.

78 CLIMATE CHANGE

79 Projected climate changes, based on current knowledge, information, and data presents 

80 complex challenges in predicting long-term changes. Additional information is located in the 

81 draft Programmatic Land Management Plan EIS. 
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82 ECOSYSTEM SUSTAINABILITY

83 Our national forests are valued for large areas of naturally functioning ecosystems. However, 

84 climate change, spreading invasive plant and animal species, and human activities threaten 

85 these same ecosystems. Demand for natural resources, whether for recreation or commodity, 

86 places additional pressure on ecosystem sustainability. We need to find balance between 

87 demand for social and/or economic use and maintaining functioning aquatic and terrestrial 

88 resource habitats over the long term. Imbalance affects water quality and soil productivity; fish, 

89 plant, and wildlife habitat; and our overall enjoyment of national forests. Fragmentation of 

90 plant and wildlife habitat resulting from growth patterns on lands adjacent to national forests, 

91 management activities, and increased use of National Forest System lands is affecting our ability 

92 to manage for federally protected species, such as the grizzly bear, woodland caribou, and bull 

93 trout.

94

95 Hanley Meadow (photo courtesy of Brandon Weinmann)

96 INSECTS AND DISEASE

97 We have identified wildfire exclusion, historic grazing practices, and historic timber harvesting 

98 as the principal factors resulting in increased live tree stocking levels, increased levels of mid 

99 and late seral species, and homogenization of spatial patterns. These factors contribute to 

100 uncharacteristic conditions that support larger scale and more persistent insect outbreaks 

101 (Hessburg et al. 1994). Acreage affected by insects and disease has consistently exceeded 

102 acreage affected by wildfire in the Colville National Forest.

103 The interaction of increased tree density increased insect levels of both defoliators and bark 

beetles, increased fuel levels, and climate change impacts such as water stress 1 104 are influencing 

105 the levels of current late forest structures and will continue to influence future late forest 

106 structure development.

 1 Water stress is primarily caused by a water deficit (where there is a lack of water to fully meet the needs of the 

vegetation)
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107 FIRE MANAGEMENT

108 Wildland fire is an essential disturbance process in dynamic and resilient ecosystems. However, 

109 the potential for uncharacteristic wildfire that is more severe, dangerous, and difficult and 

110 costly to suppress, concerns forest managers. 

111 Fire played an important role in the historical development of both forested and non-forested 

112 vegetation across northeastern Washington. Fire, was generally either low or mixed severity 

113 across much of the Colville National Forest. It created a mix of structural stages (forested 

114 vegetation); removed understory trees in dry forest types; resulted in a mix of opening sizes 

115 creating locations for establishment of shade-intolerant tree species and increased ground-level 

116 forage; regenerated shrubs and understory plants for wildlife forage; and created snag habitat.

117 However, uncharacteristic wildfire may contribute to the spread of invasive plant species, 

118 reduce habitat for federally listed terrestrial and aquatic species, and cause damage to the 

119 Forest’s infrastructure and adjacent property values. Uncharacteristic wildfire is often 

120 associated with high to moderate fire intensity and burn severity, which could result in 

121 accelerated erosion, loss or impairment of soil productivity, potential to increase peak flows, 

122 reduce water quality, and decrease aquatic habitat function. Uncharacteristic wildfires are also 

123 associated with increasingly high levels of dead and downed fuel, overstocked forests, drought, 

124 disease, and insect outbreaks. Development of structures in the wildland interface areas 

125 adjacent to national forest lands adds to the complexity and danger of wildfire suppression. 

126 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE

127 Wildland-urban interface (WUI) will continue to change over the life of the forest plan. As 

128 communities update their wildfire protection plans, additional WUI area can and will be added. 

129 The trend indicates that people will continue to build adjacent to national forest lands. This will 

130 affect wildland fire and fuels projects through public input in support of, or against those 

131 projects. It will also affect wildland fire limits in some areas because of social and political 

132 concerns related to individual perceptions of wildland fire risk and fuel management.

133 RECREATION

134 Recreational use of the Colville National Forest is projected to increase due to population 

135 growth, more people seeking outdoor activities, and increased participation in popular 

136 activities. Increasing numbers of residents of communities surrounding the national forest seek 

137 healthful, outdoor-oriented lifestyles. Changing use patterns suggest the need to provide more 

138 specific infrastructure, such as facilities for large group use. Some activities have surged in 

139 popularity since the current plans, such as mountain biking and off-highway vehicle use. As 

140 development of private land continues, the Forest Service anticipates a greater dependence on 

141 the Colville for nature-based activities and experiences that are becoming less accessible 

142 elsewhere. In some locations, resource impacts and crowding associated with recreational use 

143 are growing, and damage to riparian areas and unauthorized trail development are of particular 

144 concern.

145 Maintaining recreation infrastructure and providing opportunities for a broad cross-section of 

146 the public will strengthen the national forest’s relevancy and contribute to future generations’ 

147 appreciation and support of the National Forest System.
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148 ACCESS SYSTEM

149 Issues surrounding access to and through the national forest are complex. The Colville National 

150 Forest administers over 4,000 miles of system roads. The cost of managing this extensive road 

151 network while providing public and administrative access, habitat for fish and wildlife, and 

152 preservation and improvement of water quality presents challenging resource trade-offs.

153 Additional private landowners adjacent to national forests means more neighbors with whom 

154 the Forest Service needs to coordinate access for public recreation and other management 

155 activities. 

156 RENEWABLE FOREST PRODUCTS

157 The Colville National Forest provides water and renewable forest products such as timber, 

158 firewood, forage, huckleberries, mushrooms, material for floral arrangements, Christmas trees, 

159 native plants and seed, and medicinal plants. Managers must effectively communicate with an 

160 increasing diversity of people with varying knowledge of national forest management objectives 

161 to encourage responsible stewardship of the national forest.

162 IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES

163 A final challenge is maintaining relevancy of the national forests to the American people. Our 

164 success in achieving desired conditions depends on recognizing these challenges, some of 

165 which may be beyond our management capability, such as uncertainties around climate change, 

166 unforeseen environmental disturbances, and budgetary fluctuations. These challenges may 

167 mean it will take longer and more work to achieve the desired conditions. Congress allocates 

168 the Forest Service budgets on an annual basis, which may or may not be sufficient to implement 

169 proposed annual activities or meet desired conditions.
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170 INTRODUCTION TO THE PLAN

171 The mission of the Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the 

172 Nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The 

173 phrase, “Caring for the Land and Serving People” captures the Forest Service mission. As set 

174 forth in law, our mission is to achieve quality land management under the sustainable multiple175 use management concept to meet the diverse needs of people. The overall goal of managing 

176 the National Forest System is to sustain the multiple uses of its renewable resources in 

177 perpetuity while maintaining the long-term productivity of the land.

178 PURPOSE OF THIS LAND MANAGEMENT PLAN

179 Based on current information and guidance, this Land Management Plan (Plan or Forest Plan)

180 provides responsible land management direction for the Colville National Forest by guiding 

181 programs, practices, uses and projects. For ease of discussion throughout this document, the 

182 Colville National Forest will be referred to as Forest when referencing the single administrative 

183 unit, the staff that administers the unit, or the National Forest System lands within the unit. 

184 On March 23, 2012, the agency established a new planning rule (the 2012 Planning Rule). The 

185 2012 Rule also provides transition language at 36 CFR 219.17(b)(3), allowing the responsible 

186 official to elect to use the provisions of the prior planning regulations to prepare plan 

187 amendments and revisions. The responsible official has elected to continue to follow the 

188 provisions of the planning regulations in effect prior to May 9, 2012, as indicated in the 2011

189 Notice of Intent. 

190 This Plan provides broad guidance and information for project and activity decision-making for 

approximately 2 191 the next 15 years.

192 Forest Plan Characteristics

193 The Plan is strategic in nature. It does not include project and activity decisions. Those 

194 decisions are made later, only after specific proposals are made and analyzed and there is the 

195 opportunity for public involvement.

196 The Plan includes plan components. These are desired conditions, objectives, suitability of 

197 areas, special areas, monitoring, and standards and guidelines. Plan components are 

198 distinguished from other parts of the Plan because they can only be changed by a plan 

199 amendment.

200 The Plan is adaptive. New knowledge and information can be analyzed and the Plan changed, if 

201 appropriate, at any time. Changes to plan components are made by a formal amendment 

202 process.

203 The Plan honors the continuing validity of private, statutory, or pre-existing rights.

204

 2

May be revised sooner if needed because of important changed conditions.
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205 The Forest Plan provides guidance for project and activity level decision-making on the Colville 

206 National Forest for approximately the next 15 years. This guidance includes: 

207 • Forestwide multiple-use goals (listed as desired conditions) and objectives, including a 

208 description of the desired condition of the Forest and an identification of the quantities of 

209 goods and services that are expected to be produced during the planning period, as 

210 required by 36 CFR 219.11(b); 

211 • Forestwide standards and guidelines to fulfill the requirements of 16 United States Code 

212 (U.S.C.) 1604 applying to future activities and resource integration requirements in36 CFR 

213 219.13 through 219.27; 

214 • Management Area (MA) direction (multiple-use prescriptions) with associated standards 

215 and guidelines, including possible actions (see appendix A), as required by 36 CFR 

216 219.11(c); 

217 • Monitoring and evaluation requirements that provide a basis for a periodic determination 

218 and evaluation of the effects of management practices, as required by 36 CFR 219.11(d); 

219 • Recommendation of wilderness to Congress, as required by 36 CFR 219.17(a); and 

220 recommendation of rivers eligible for inclusion in the Wild and Scenic River System as 

221 described by 16 U.S.C. 1271-1287, 36 CFR 297, and 47 FR 39454; and 

222 • Determination of suitability and potential capability of lands for resource production 

223 (timber and grazing), as required by 36 CFR 219.14 and 219.20. 

224 Life and safety of forest users is important. However, it is not necessary to provide management 

225 direction for safety in a Forest Plan. Numerous regulations, codes and policies provide for 

226 human health and safety. 

227 SUMMARY OF THE ANALYSIS OF THE MANAGEMENT SITUATION 

228 The management situation is described in the Comprehensive Evaluation Report (CER) (2006).

229 This document meets the content requirements of the Analysis of the Management Situation 

230 (AMS) as required by the procedures of the 1982 Planning Rule, by describing the social, 

231 economic, and ecological conditions and trends in and around the Colville National Forest. The 

232 CER notes where the former land management plan (the 1988 Plan) does not provide adequate 

233 management guidance for the present and future, and it identifies where the conditions and 

234 trends indicate a need for change from the 1988 plan. A summary of the AMS is in the Planning 

235 Record.

236 The CER/AMS identifies three primary areas, or revision topics, where there are priority needs 

237 for change in program direction.

238 1. Vegetation and Fuels Treatment

239 2. Aquatic (Fish and Water) Systems

240 3. Wildlife Habitat

241 MANAGEMENT CONTEXT

242 Management of National Forest System lands occurs in a larger context and geographic 

243 landscape. National laws, regulations, and policy guide the Forest’s interaction with local, State 

244 and Federal agencies. The Colville National Forest covers a wide geographic landscape and is a 
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245 neighbor to many entities, ranging from the private landowner, to State and Federal lands, to 

246 tribal lands, and a foreign country to the north (Canada). The management of the Forest is set 

247 within this complex regulatory and geographic environment and is guided by numerous laws, 

248 regulations, executive orders, treaties, and agreements. Following is a brief overview of this 

249 complex situation.

250 CONSULTATION, COOPERATION AND COORDINATION

251 The Colville National Forest contains lands adjacent to other national forests, national wildlife 

252 refuges, U.S. Department of Interior (USDI) Bureau of Land Management lands, tribal lands, and 

253 lands managed by the State, in addition to others. Through mandatory requirement or 

254 agreement, the Forest consults, cooperates, and/or coordinates with many local governments 

255 (especially counties), state agencies (including the Washington State Historic Preservation 

256 Office), Washington Department of Ecology (Ecology or WADoE), Washington Department of 

257 Fish and Wildlife []), Federal agencies (including the USDI Fish and Wildlife Service, Department 

258 of Homeland Security, and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission), and American Indian tribes, 

259 as well as communities, private entities, individuals, research institutions, and organizations. 

260 These relationships help improve management efficiency, achieve management goals, improve 

261 overall resource management, foster consistent land management at larger scales, and reduce 

262 potential conflicts. If these requirements or agreements change, the Forest will comply with, or 

263 adapt to the changes as needed. The Forest considers these consultation, cooperation and 

264 coordination activities as standard operating procedure, and, therefore, they are generally not 

265 restated as direction in the Forest Plan.

266 INTERNATIONAL BOUNDARY WITH CANADA

267 The Colville National Forest’s northernmost boundary is the international boundary with 

268 Canada. A 60-foot wide reservation strip, the “Taft Reservation” of May 3, 1912, runs along the 

269 border. Activities by the Forest and other Federal agencies within the reservation strip are the 

270 subject of numerous agreements and understandings between Federal agencies as well as 

271 treaties between the United States and Canada. The Plan does not address management within 

272 the 60-foot reservation or activities within the national forest related to the international 

273 boundary as treaties and related agreements and understandings cover those areas.

274 STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT

275 State and local government resource management and land use plans provide guidance for 

276 management of lands in those jurisdictions. Community wildfire protection plans provide well277 defined avenues for coordination. County land use plans describe local government goals and 

278 objectives for land management and provide opportunities for coordination between the Forest 

279 Service and local governments.

280 FEDERAL TRUST RESPONSIBILITY AND TRIBAL RIGHTS AND INTERESTS

281 American Indian tribes are sovereign nations. They are government entities with which the 

282 Forest Service has established and continues to maintain government-to-government 

283 relationships. In government-to-government consultation, the Forest Service acknowledges the 

284 sovereignty of federally recognized American Indian tribes, and the special government-to285 government relationship between the tribes and the United States through Executive Order 

286 13175 (November 6, 2000).
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287 The U.S. Government has a trust responsibility to federally recognized tribes. While Federal laws 

288 apply to all federally recognized American Indian tribes, each tribe or confederation of tribes is 

289 different and is recognized as a separate and unique government. There are differences 

290 between tribes and in historic relationships between tribes and lands on and near their current 

291 reservations. In some cases, several tribes may have legal interests in the same lands because 

292 they each may have occupied or otherwise used those lands prior to relocation on reservations. 

293 These factors and others result in unique relationships with each tribe.

294 Tribes have reserved rights and privileges for their tribal members on any off-site reservation 

295 lands ceded through executive orders to the U.S. Government. The Forest Service manages 

296 some of those off-reservation lands ceded through executive orders. Therefore, the agency has 

297 certain legal responsibilities to American Indian tribes. The Forest Service is required to manage 

298 the lands under their stewardship with full consideration of the Federal trust responsibility and 

299 tribal rights and interests, particularly reserved rights where they exist. In meeting these 

300 responsibilities, the agency consults with the tribes whenever proposed policies or 

301 management actions may affect their interests. American Indian access to sites is protected as 

302 well as the use and possession of sacred objects, the freedom to worship through ceremonial 

303 and traditional rites, and collection of native plant and animal resources for traditional cultural 

304 purposes. Appropriate protection of these areas is coordinated with the leaders of the tribes. 

305 On some occasions, access or use by the public may be temporarily denied to allow tribal 

306 members to exercise their reserved rights in privacy and solitude. When such uses or temporary 

307 closures occur, participating tribal members are typically required to verify their membership in 

308 a federally recognized tribe.

309 While this Plan does not attempt to define the legal obligations of the Forest Service under the 

310 Federal trust responsibility, the Plan reflects a commitment, whether as a legal obligation or a 

311 matter of policy, to address tribal concerns and interests.

312 Further, the Plan reflects consideration of Federal legal responsibilities to both tribes and 

313 American Indian people as expressed through executive order, Federal laws (such as Civil Rights 

314 Act, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), National Historic Preservation Act, and Native 

315 American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act), executive orders, and federal court 

316 judgments.

317 More specifically, government-to-government consultation is ongoing between the Forest 

318 Service and the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, the Kalispel Tribe, and the 

319 Spokane Tribe of Indians.

320 The tribes and Executive orders are as follows: 

321 • Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation: Executive Order of 1872; North-Half 

322 Agreement of 1891

323 • Kalispel Tribe: Executive Order of 1914

324 • Spokane Tribe of Indians: Executive Order of 1881

325 CONSISTENCY WITH PLAN COMPONENTS

326 Under the National Forest Management Act (NFMA) of 1976, a project or activity must be 

327 consistent with plan components as follows and as described in the Consistency with Plan 

328 Components Appendix of this Plan. As projects and activities are planned, an interdisciplinary 
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329 team assesses the potential environmental, physical, biological, aesthetic, cultural, engineering, 

330 and economic impacts on the area. 

331 Projects and activities include all actions under 16 U.S.C. 1604(i). A project or activity must be 

332 consistent with the plan by being consistent with applicable plan decisions. 

333 Plans also contain other content (see the “Other Content” section). Projects and activities are 

334 not required to be consistent with this other content. 

335 Where a proposed project or activity would not be consistent with a plan decision, the 

336 responsible official has the following options: 

337 • To modify the proposal so that the project or activity will be consistent; 

338 • To reject the proposal; or 

339 • To amend the plan at the same time as the approval of the project or activity so that the 

340 project or activity is consistent with the plan as amended. The amendment may be 

341 limited to apply only to the project or activity. 

342 These plan components apply only to National Forest System lands and are measured at the 

343 forestwide scale unless specifically stated otherwise. The timeframe to achieve objectives is 10 

344 to 15 years unless stated otherwise. These plan components do not alter any legal or statutory 

345 rights such as mineral development or private lands access or reduce the need to provide public 

346 or employee safety. These goals (hereafter identified as desired conditions), objectives, 

347 standards and guidelines do not supersede law or regulation in the event of conflict between 

348 them. Standards apply only to management actions.

Plan Components

Desired Conditions

(Goals)

Social, economic, and ecological attributes toward which management of 

the land and resources of the plan area is to be directed. Desired 

conditions are aspirations, are not commitments or final decisions 

approving projects and activities, and may be achievable only over a long 

period of time. Desired conditions are aspirations and are not 

commitments or final decisions approving projects.

To be consistent with the desired conditions of the plan, a project or 

activity, when assessed at the appropriate spatial scale described in the 

plan (e.g., landscape scale), must be designed to meet one or more of the 

following conditions: 

− Maintain or make progress toward one or more of the desired 

conditions of a plan without adversely affecting progress 

toward, or maintenance of, other desired conditions; or 

− Be neutral with regard to progress toward plan desired 

conditions; or 

− Maintain or make progress toward one or more of the desired 

conditions over the long term, even if the project or activity 

would adversely affect progress toward or maintenance of one 

or more desired conditions in the short term; or 

− Maintain or make progress toward one or more of the desired 

conditions over the long term, even if the project or activity 
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Plan Components

would adversely affect progress toward other desired 

conditions in a negligible way over the long term. 

The project documentation should explain how the project is consistent 

with desired conditions and describe any short-term or negligible longterm adverse effects the project may have concerning the maintenance or 

attainment of any desired condition. This description of the desired 

conditions for the Forest fulfills the requirement of section 36 CFR 

219.11(b) of the 1982 planning regulations.

Objectives These are concise projections of measurable, time-specific intended 

outcomes. Objectives are the means of measuring progress toward 

achieving or maintaining desired conditions. The objectives represent just 

some of the expected outcomes or actions required to accomplish 

movement toward desired conditions.

Variation in achieving objectives may occur during the next 10 to 15 years 

because of changes in environmental conditions, available budgets, and 

other factors. Objectives are strongly influenced by recent trends, past 

experiences and anticipated staffing levels, and short-term budgets.

A project or activity is consistent with the objectives of the plan if it 

contributes to or does not prevent the attainment of any applicable 

objectives. The project documentation should identify any applicable 

objective(s) to which the project contributes and document that the 

project does not prevent the attainment of any objectives. If there are no 

applicable objectives, the project must be consistent with the objectives 

of the plan, and the project document should state that fact.

The objectives section provides a description of the potential outcomes or 

results that may be expected to be provided during the planning period, 

as required in 36 CFR 219.11 (b) of the 1982 Planning Rule.

Standards Standards are constraints upon project and activity decision making.

Standards are established to help achieve desired conditions and 

objectives and to ensure project activities on NFS lands comply with 

applicable laws, regulations, Executive orders, and agency directives. 

A project or activity must be consistent with all standards applicable to 

the type of project or activity and its location in the plan area. A project or 

activity is consistent with a standard when its design is in exact accord 

with the standard; variance from a standard is not allowed except by plan 

amendment. The project documentation should confirm that the project 

is consistent with applicable standards. Standards are explicitly identified 

in the Plan (36 CFR 219.11).
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Plan Components

Guidelines Guidelines provide operational practices and procedures that are applied

to project and activity decision making to help achieve desired conditions 

and objectives, to avoid or mitigate undesirable effects, or to meet 

applicable legal requirements.

A project or activity is consistent with a guideline in either of two ways: 

1. The project or activity is designed exactly in accord with the 

guideline; or 

2. A project or activity design varies from the exact words of the 

guideline, but it is as effective in meeting the purpose of the 

guideline to contribute to the maintenance or attainment of the 

relevant desired conditions and objectives. 

Guidelines are explicitly identified in the Plan (36 CFR 219.11). When a 

project varies from the exact words of the guideline, the project 

documentation must specifically explain how the project design is as 

effective in contributing to the maintenance or attainment of relevant 

desired conditions and objectives. When deviation from a guideline does 

not meet the original intent, however, a plan amendment is required.

Suitability of Areas National Forest System lands are identified as “generally suitable” for 

various uses. Suitability describes the appropriateness of applying certain 

resource management practices (uses) to a particular area of land. An area 

may be identified as generally suitable for uses that are compatible with 

desired conditions and objectives for that area.

A project with the purpose of timber production may only occur in an area 

identified as suitable for timber production (16 U.S.C. 1604(k)). The 

documentation for the project should confirm the project area meets the 

suitability requirements. 

Except for projects with a purpose of timber production, a project or 

activity can be consistent with plan suitability determinations in either of 

two ways: 

1. The project or activity is a use identified in the plan as suitable for 

the location where the project or activity is to occur; or 

2. The project or activity is not a use identified in the plan as suitable 

for the location (i.e., the plan is silent on the use or the plan 

identifies the use as not suitable), but the responsible official 

determines that the use is appropriate for that location’s desired 

conditions and objectives. 

The project documentation should describe that the project or activity is 

either: (1) a use for which the area is specifically identified in the plan as 

suitable or (2) not a use for which the area is specifically identified in the 

plan as suitable, but it is nonetheless appropriate for that location.
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349 Changes such as updates of data and maps, typographical errors, the monitoring program and 

350 monitoring information, and other non-substantive changes in this document, may be made 

351 with administrative corrections. The public will be notified of any future amendments or 

352 administrative corrections to the plan.

353 PLAN STRUCTURE 

354 This Plan is organized into several major divisions: Chapter 1: Introduction; Chapter 2: Forest355 wide Direction; Chapter 3: Management Area Direction; Chapter 4: Monitoring; Appendices; 

356 and References.

357 The Maps, Glossary and Bibliography are all-inclusive for the Plan Set of Documents and exist as 

358 separate documents. The official electronic maps and data that support the Plan are found at 

359 http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/colville/landmanagement/planning.

360 The following discussion briefly describes how the plan components are distributed among the 

361 parts of this Plan. For a quick preview of the Plan structure, glance at the Table of Contents.

Parts of the Plan

Background Information

(Chapters 2 and 3)

This plan also includes material that is not a plan component and appears in 

light grey boxes. This information is background and typically clarifies limits 

of authority, definitions, application of management guidance, and 

applicability of analysis. Projects and activities are not expected to be 

consistent with this material.

Chapter 2: 

Forestwide Direction

This chapter contains direction that applies forestwide unless more 

stringent or restrictive direction is found in chapter 3. Forestwide direction 

includes desired conditions, objectives, standards, and guidelines. Other 

Forest Service direction including laws, regulations, policies, executive 

orders, and Forest Service directives (manual and handbook), is not 

repeated in the Forest Plan. 

The chapter is organized by resource, under the following two major 

categories: 

• Landscape Features and Dynamics

This section includes components for air; aquatic and riparian components 

including key watersheds (networks of watersheds that provide crucial 

habitat for threatened and endangered fish and aquatic species); soil; 

vegetative systems including vegetation disturbance, biological legacies, 

plant habitats including habitats for threatened and endangered plant 

species, and species of conservation concern; and wildlife habitats including 

habitats for threatened, endangered, management indicator, focal, and 

ungulate species.

• Social Systems 

This section includes components for the access system, lands and special 

uses, commercial livestock grazing, minerals, public awareness, recreation, 

renewable forest products, scenery, and source water protections areas.
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Parts of the Plan

Chapter 3: Management 

Area Direction

Management Area (MA) allocations are specific to areas across the Forest 

that have similar management needs and desired conditions. Each MA has a 

certain emphasis which will direct management activities on that piece of 

land. 

This chapter includes the following for each MA: 

• A brief description of the management area; and 

• Management direction in the form of desired conditions, objectives, 

standards, and guidelines. 

This chapter also includes tables showing suitable uses that may or may not 

be authorized within a management area. For each table, an “x” indicates 

suitability of the management area for that use, when consistent with 

forestwide and management area direction. Some uses are qualified by 

constraints or exceptions as shown in the table.

Chapter 4: Monitoring Monitoring is used to determine the degree to which on-the-ground 

management is maintaining or making progress toward desired conditions. 

The monitoring strategy includes questions and performance measures 

designed to inform implementation and effectiveness of plan decisions. It 

helps ensure that the plan remains adaptive, in that new knowledge and 

information can be analyzed and the plan modified as needed. Every 

monitoring question links to one or more desired conditions, objectives, 

standards, or guidelines. However, not every plan component has a 

corresponding monitoring question.

362 OTHER CONTENT – MATERIAL THAT IS NOT A PLAN COMPONENT

363 This plan also includes material that is not a plan component. This information is background 

364 and typically clarifies limits of authority, definitions, management guidance, application of 

365 management guidance, and applicability of analysis. Projects and activities are not expected to 

366 be consistent with this background material. Changes to this material do not require a Forest 

367 Plan amendment. Other content that is not considered plan direction includes roles and 

368 contributions, management challenges, possible management actions, or strategies.

369 All maps and photos within the Plan are for reference unless otherwise noted as a plan 

370 component.

371 RELATIONSHIP OF THE FOREST PLAN TO OTHER STRATEGIC GUIDANCE

372 Forest Service Management Direction

373 Forest Service direction for managing National Forest System lands comes from several levels.

374 National and regional direction includes laws, executive orders and regulations. Forest Service 

375 policy guides activities on national forests. All forest activities must comply with national 

376 direction and reflect national policy.
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377 The hierarchy of management direction ranges from national and regional direction to site378 specific, project-level direction when the Forest Plan is implemented. Figure 3 shows the 

379 primary levels of direction.

380

381 Figure 3. Hierarchy of management direction for all national forests

382 NATIONAL AND REGIONAL DIRECTION AND GUIDANCE

383 All land management plans must meet the requirements of the National Forest Management 

384 Act of 1976. This Plan was revised under the transition provisions of the 2012 Planning Rule (36 

385 CFR 219). Under the 2012 Planning Rule (Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 219–

386 Planning), the responsible official may complete and approve plan revision in conformance with 

387 the provisions of the prior planning regulation, including the transition provisions of the 

388 reinstated 2000 rule (36 CFR part 299, published at 36 CFR parts 200 to 299, revised as of July 1, 

389 2010). The transition provisions allow the use of the 1982 planning procedures (see CFR parts 

390 200 to 299, Revised as of July 1, 2000). See the following hyperlink for the 1982 procedures 

391 http://www.fs.fed.us/emc/nfma/includes/nfmareg.html.

392 Direction for land management plans is to focus on outcomes achieved over time (desired 

393 conditions) instead of outputs (products, goods, and services) as in previous plans. In addition, 

394 plans must guide development of a budget and project activities that bring about desired 

395 outcomes. Rather than making project-level decisions or commitments to implement specific 

396 projects, a land management plan provides the context for project development.

397 Guidance for forest plans is from the USDA Forest Service Strategic Plan 

398 (http://www.fs.fed.us/plan/). This national-level plan is a framework for the National Forest 

399 System annual performance plan. It guides units such as individual national forests or ranger 

400 districts in proposing project-level work, while considering the opportunities and challenges 

401 detailed in their local unit plans. Like individual forest plans, the strategic plan focuses on 

402 outcomes or results that are to be achieved over time. Forest plans consider the National 

403 Strategic Plan in developing desired conditions and objectives.

404 As a Federal land management agency, the Forest Service must follow all applicable Federal 

405 laws and regulations. If these laws change or are amended, or if new laws are enacted, the 

406 Forest administration will comply with the changes or additions. The same situation applies to 

407 executive orders and to agency policy, as expressed in Forest Service Manual and Handbook 

408 directives. This direction does not need to be restated in the forest plan. Wherever the laws, 
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409 regulations, or policies have more stringent requirements than forest plan direction, the Forest 

410 must and will comply with those requirements.

411 Examples of Federal laws with which forest plans and revised forest plans must be consistent 

412 are the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the National Historic Preservation Act, the Wilderness 

413 Act, the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, and the National Forest Management Act (NFMA). 

414 Guidance for these laws comes from the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), and the Forest 

415 Service Directive System (the Forest Service Handbooks and Forest Service Manuals). That 

416 material is not repeated in the Forest Plan, but a summary of these may be found on the Forest 

417 Service national Web page at http://www.fs.fed.us/biology/planning/index.html

418 Overarching national policies, such as the Healthy Forests Initiative or the National Fire Plan, 

419 also guide development of forest plans and management activities. These laws, regulations, and 

420 policies are not repeated in the Forest Plan but may be found on the National Forest Web Page 

421 at http://www.fs.fed.us/

422 FOREST DIRECTION

423 A forest may have a forestwide plan, such as a fire management plan or access and travel 

424 management plan, which serves to implement the forest plan. These plans are consistent with, 

425 and subordinate to, the forest plan.

426 PROJECT-LEVEL DIRECTION

427 Project-level plans are on-the-ground projects and activities designed to accomplish 

428 management objectives and move the planning area toward desired conditions. Most site429 specific projects and activities are designed to meet the objectives of the land management 

430 plan while reflecting current local issues and needs. Projects and activities are subject to the 

431 National Environmental Policy Act and other applicable laws and regulations. The same 

432 situation applies to executive orders and to agency policy, as expressed in Forest Service Manual 

433 and Handbook directives. Wherever the laws, regulations, or policies have more stringent 

434 requirements than forest plan direction, the Forest must and will comply with those 

435 requirements. The level of required environmental analysis and planning to carry out a project 

436 is dictated by the scope and complexity of the project, public issues, and the project’s potential 

437 effects on the human environment.

438 DECISIONS MADE IN THE PREVIOUS FOREST PLAN

439 Decisions made in the previous Forest Plan, such as resource management standards, will no 

440 longer be binding unless they are explicitly carried forward by inclusion in this plan. Note that 

441 laws, regulations, and directives are not repeated or summarized in this plan (unlike the 

442 previous forest plan), but are still in force.

443 PLANNING RECORD

444 A variety of documents, including the Forest Plan, make up the Planning Record. Aside from the 

445 land management plan, these include the final environmental impact statement, record of 

446 decision, and the project record. Following is a description of the most prominent documents. 

447 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT 

448 The preparation of an environmental impact statement (EIS) disclosing a preferred alternative

449 and a range of alternatives is required by the National Environmental Policy Act (1969) and the 
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450 implementing regulations of NFMA (36 CFR 219). The final EIS (FEIS) also provides information 

451 on the existing conditions and the environmental effects associated with the alternatives. 

452 RECORD OF DECISION 

453 A record of decision (ROD) follows the FEIS. The ROD documents the selection of an alternative 

454 and the rationale for that selection to be the Land and Resource Management Plan for the 

455 Forest. 

456 PROJECT RECORD

457 The project record consists of the relevant decision documentation and pertinent records 

458 documenting the planning process. All references used throughout the planning process are 

459 included. 

460 GLOSSARY

461 The glossary is a separate companion document that supports the entire Planning Record. It 

462 provides definitions of select words from this Plan.

463 ABOUT THE APPENDICES

464 Appendix A: Consistency with Plan Components

465 This appendix explains how projects and activities must be consistent with this Plan. 

466 Appendix B: Proposed and Possible Management Actions

467 Appendix B describes proposed and possible that the staff of the Colville National Forest 

468 anticipate to occur over the life of the Plan, which show the variety of multiple-use 

469 opportunities or resource management programs that the Forest expects to provide (36 CFR 

470 219.11(b)).

471 Appendix C: Sensitive Species Summary

472 Appendix C provides a summary of sensitive plant species known to occur on the Colville 

473 National Forest.

474 Appendix D: Scenic Integrity Objectives

475 This appendix provides a map displaying scenic integrity objective designations across the 

476 Colville National Forest.

477 Appendix E: Recreation Opportunity Spectrum

478 This appendix provides a map displaying recreation opportunity spectrum designations across 

479 the Colville National Forest.

480
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481 ROLES AND CONTRIBUTIONS FOR THE COLVILLE NATIONAL 

482 FOREST

483 INTERNATIONAL LEVEL

484 Contains the International Selkirk Loop. This designated All-American Road is one of 31 

485 in the Nation. It winds through northeastern Washington, northern Idaho, and 

486 southeastern British Columbia. The loop received the national Rural Community 

487 Assistance Action Award from the Chief of the U.S. Forest Service for 2000 to 2001. 

488 Shares an international boundary with Canada. The Colville National Forest shares 

489 50 miles of border with Canada. Visitors cross the U.S. and Canada border through six 

490 international gateways that allow access through the national forest (these include, 

491 from west to east: Ferry, Danville, Laurier, Frontier, Boundary, and Metaline Falls). 

492 Hydroelectric power production. Waters from the Colville National Forest drain to Lake 

493 Roosevelt on the Columbia River, which is impounded by the Grand Coulee Dam, the 

494 largest power supplying dam in the United States. The Grand Coulee Dam generates 

495 21 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity per year, supplying power to Washington, 

496 Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, California, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, 

497 Arizona, and Canada. In addition, there are two hydropower projects with acreage on 

498 the Colville National Forest on the Pend Oreille River. Boundary Dam generates one499 third of Seattle City Light’s power, and Box Canyon Dam supplies power for Pend Oreille 

500 County. Both dams also supply power to other western states and Canada at times of 

501 peak production.

502 NATIONAL LEVEL

503 Provides habitat for three federally protected terrestrial wildlife species. The U.S.

504 Department of Interior (USDI) Fish and Wildlife Service lists the grizzly bear and Canada 

505 lynx as threatened species and woodland caribou as an endangered species. The very 

506 eastern portion of Colville National Forest is included in the Selkirk Grizzly Bear 

507 Recovery area. The recovery area supports a small population of grizzly bears. The 

508 Colville contains recovery area and proposed critical habitat for the last remaining herd 

509 of woodland caribou in the continental U.S. The recovery area for the Selkirk Mountain 

510 Woodland Caribou, the most endangered mammal in the continental U.S., includes a 

511 portion of the Colville National Forest and public lands in northern Idaho and southern 

512 British Columbia. In 2013, only 18 animals were counted in the entire recovery area. 

513 The Colville does not contain designated critical habitat for Canada lynx, but follows 

514 current science direction for managing Canada lynx habitat. The Kettle Crest is 

515 identified as a Core Area that is important for the recovery of Canada lynx in 

516 Washington.

517 Contains one of six nationally designated grizzly bear recovery areas. The Selkirk 

518 Grizzly Bear Recovery Area is home to a population of approximately 30 grizzly bears. 

519 The recovery area is one of two in Washington State and one of six in the Nation. It 

520 includes the Selkirk Mountains ecosystem of northern Idaho, southern British Columbia, 

521 and northeastern Washington. The northeastern part of the Colville National Forest 

522 contains the Washington portion of the recovery area.
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523 Provides habitat for one federally protected species of fish. The bull trout is federally 

524 listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. Portions of streams 

525 on the Colville National Forest are designated as critical habitat for the recovery of this 

526 species. 

527 Contributes one wilderness to the National Wilderness Preservation System. The 

528 Salmo-Priest Wilderness (31,400 acres) is an example of the Okanogan Highlands 

529 landform and is the only wilderness in the northeastern section of the state. 

530 Contains four national recreation trails (NRT). The Colville National Forest hosts 

531 80 miles of NRTs. Two of the longest trails are the Kettle Crest (44 miles) and the 

532 Shedroof Divide (21.8 miles). The other two NRTs are the Lakeshore Trail, also known as 

533 Sullivan Lake (4.3 miles), and Pass Creek-Grassy Top (7.8 miles). 

534 Contains approximately 140 miles of the 1,200-mile Pacific Northwest National Scenic 

535 Trail on National Forest System lands. The Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail

536 crosses seven national forests and ranks among the most scenic trails in the world. The 

537 trail begins at the Continental Divide and ends at the Pacific Ocean, passing through the 

538 Selkirk and Kettle River Range Mountains on the Colville National Forest.

PACIFIC NORTHWEST REGIONAL LEVEL3 539

540 Provides habitat for regionally rare plant, animal, and fish species. The Colville 

541 National Forest provides habitat for 4 fish species, 38 plant species, and 27 wildlife 

542 species considered sensitive by the Forest Service. 

543 Supports the most concentrated milling area in the state. The Colville timber 

544 processing area (composed of three Washington counties and three northern Idaho 

545 counties) includes 22 milling facilities, 11 of which are sawmills. Some of these facilities 

546 specialize in using small-diameter timber that abundant on National Forest System 

547 lands in northeastern Washington. This concentration of industrial activity contributes 

548 to local economies and to the character of communities. 

549 STATE AND LOCAL LEVEL

550 Showcases Sherman Pass Scenic Byway and North Pend Oreille Scenic Byway. These 

551 national forest scenic byways showcase historical sites, views of rivers and mountains, 

552 and offer varied vegetation including stunning fall foliage and view of past burns.

553 Provides a continuous supply of high quality water. Brown and Froemke (2009) 

554 estimated the annual contribution of water supply for all national forests in the 

555 contiguous United States based on data from 1953 to 1994. Water supply estimates 

556 were calculated as “precipitation minus natural evapotranspiration” with the 

557 assumption that water that infiltrates into the soil is not evaporated or transpired is 

558 eventually available as surface water (Brown and Froemke 2009). Estimated annual 

559 contribution to water supply from lands within the Colville National Forest 

560 administrative boundary is 65,121 million cubic feet per year. Estimated annual 

561 contribution from lands within the Colville National Forest ownership boundary is 

562 51,525 million cubic feet per year.

 3 Pacific Northwest Region, or Region 6, refers to all National Forest System lands within Washington and Oregon.
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563 Contains an important diversity of wildlife species. Three hundred twenty-three 

564 known species of vertebrate wildlife occur in Colville National Forest, including 73 

565 species of mammals, 234 birds, 9 reptiles, and 7 species of amphibians. Thirty-one 

566 species or sub-species of fish inhabit Colville National Forest waters. Unique wildlife 

567 species such as red-tailed chipmunk, northern bog lemming, and woodland caribou live 

568 on the national forest. The Selkirk Mountains and Kettle River Range are also the only 

569 place in America where woodland caribou, moose, elk, mule deer, and white-tailed deer 

570 share the same habitat. Northeastern Washington harbors the largest white-tailed deer 

571 populations in Washington. White-tailed deer provide an important recreational, 

572 economic, and ecological resource, contributing to local economies by attracting 

573 hunters to the area. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife identifies two 

574 areas that are managed for white-tailed deer that include portions of the Colville 

575 National Forest : the Okanogan Highlands is composed of 25 percent National Forest

576 System land and the Selkirks contain 26 percent National Forest System land.

577 Contains a significant diversity of plant species and communities. Herbaria data 

578 include about 2,400 vascular and nonvascular plant and fungi taxa that occur on the 

579 Colville National Forest and vicinity. Of those, 38 have been identified as Region 6 

580 sensitive species. The moonwort species, Botrychium lineare, occurs here at the only 

581 site in Washington State; the moonwort genus thrives on the Colville National Forest. In 

582 addition, there are two wildflower viewing sites documented and described for public 

583 recreation opportunities. The wide range of geological and soil types, precipitation, and 

584 elevations spanning from warm valley bottoms to cold mountain peaks supports a 

585 diverse assortment of plant communities.

586 View and download detailed assessments, evaluations, reports, and documents associated with 

587 the Plan on the land management plan development website: 

588 http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/colville/landmanagement/planning
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589 Chapter 2

590 FORESTWIDE DIRECTION – INTRODUCTION

591 Desired conditions: A project or activity must be consistent with desired conditions as 

592 described in appendix A. 

593 Forestwide desired conditions apply only to National Forest System lands and are measured at 

594 a forestwide scale unless otherwise stated. 

595 Management area desired conditions (chapter 3) are specific to each management area. 

596 Forestwide desired conditions apply to these areas. Some management direction, such as 

597 riparian management areas, overlays parts of other management areas. The applicability of 

598 plan direction is guided by the principle that, where management direction overlaps, and 

599 depending on site-specific conditions and the activity or use, the most restrictive plan direction 

600 applies. Using the most restrictive plan direction provides guidance and protection for resource601 based or socially sensitive functions provided by National Forest System lands. 

602 Objectives: A project or activity must be consistent with objectives as described in the 

603 Consistency with Plan Components Appendix (appendix A of this Plan). Objectives do not imply 

604 a program of work, a list of projects, or a minimum or maximum amount to be accomplished. 

605 Accomplishing the objectives depends on availability of resources, including budget, to 

606 complete the work. The amounts shown reflect current budget trends and available resources 

607 on the Colville National Forest. Objectives provide information on outcomes and are not 

608 mandatory tasks. The national forest engages in tasks beyond those shown in the Plan that also 

609 move the Forest toward desired conditions. 

610 Management activities used to accomplish objectives are not included in the plan components, 

611 as a variety of tools or techniques may be used by staff of the Colville National Forest and serve 

612 to accomplish the objective. A description of tools and techniques likely to be used is found in 

613 Appendix C, Possible Management Actions. Design criteria found in chapters 2 and 3 of this Plan 

614 constrain the range of possible management actions available for use. 

615 Design criteria include guidelines and standards applicable to project or activity design and 

616 execution. Design criteria are sideboards for projects and activities to help achieve the desired 

617 conditions and objectives. 

618 Forestwide guidelines apply in all management areas, unless specifically identified as not 

619 applicable. Some management areas, such as riparian management areas, overlap or overlay 

620 other management areas. 

621 Combinations of activities or uses are dependent on site-specific conditions, making it 

622 unreasonable to include all combinations and the applicable plan direction within the forest 

623 plan. Therefore, applicability of plan direction is guided by the principle that where 

624 management areas overlap, the most restrictive plan direction applies, depending on site625 specific conditions and the activity or use. 
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626 FORESTWIDE DIRECTION – LANDSCAPE FEATURES AND 

627 DYNAMICS

628 This section contains desired conditions for the following resources: 

629 Air, soil, vegetation, water resources, and wildlife habitats.

630

631
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632 AIR (AIR)

633 The U.S. Forest Service is responsible for protecting national forests and surrounding 

634 areas from the adverse effects of air pollution that are sourced from Forest Service 

635 land. This is predominantly accomplished by working with Washington State 

636 Department of Natural Resources Smoke Management to plan prescribed burning 

637 when weather conditions would prevent smoke impacts from exceeding established air 

638 quality standards.

639 The U.S. Forest Service is responsible for protecting national forests from the adverse 

640 effects of air pollution. 

641 The most stringent areas for air quality are the Class 1 areas. These are special areas of 

642 natural wonder and scenic beauty, such as national parks and wilderness areas, where 

643 air quality should be given special protection. These areas are subject to maximum 

644 limits on air quality degradation called air quality increments. 

645 The Colville National Forest does not have any Class I wilderness areas.

646 An illustration of Class I desired conditions can be seen on the following USDA Forest 

647 Service air quality image web site: http://www.fsvisimages.com/

648 The National Ambient Air Quality Standards can be found at 

649 http://www.epa.gov/ttn/naaqs/

650 Desired Condition

651 FW-DC-AIR-01. Air Quality Protection 

652 Air quality on National Forest System lands is protected, maintained and/or improved at the 

653 Forest scale over the life of the Plan. Management activities contribute to conditions that meet 

654 or exceed National Ambient Air Quality Standards on the Forest, as well as other Class I and II 

655 wilderness areas and other Federal Class I areas that may be affected.

656 Forest visitors and/or residents living adjacent to the national forest experience clean air and 

657 clear views as would occur under natural conditions. They are aware of short-term impacts to 

658 air quality due to wildland fires. 

659 The Class II wilderness area managed by the Forest (Salmo Priest Wilderness) has visibility that 

660 is clear and unimpaired by human-caused pollutants.

661 Class II lands – the remaining Forest Service System lands – have only moderate deterioration of 

662 air quality, meeting or exceeding the National Ambient Air Quality Standards.

663 SOIL (SOIL)

664 Soils are an integral part of ecosystems, their function, and the above and below 

665 ground interaction of organisms. These functions all contribute to ecological resilience. 

666 Soil conservation and protection is needed to effectively maintain soil quality and 

667 productivity and improve or protect watershed conditions. Generally, soil productivity 

668 standards and guidelines are not applied to administrative sites or dedicated use areas 

669 (such as roads, recreation sites).
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670 Desired Condition

671 FW-DC-SOIL-01. Soil Productivity and Function 

672 Soil productivity and function contributes to the long-term resilience of ecosystems. 

673 Management activities occur on soils with the inherent capability to support those activities.

674 Table 1. Soil ecological functions with attributes and indicators for long-term soil productivity

Soil 

Function

Selected 

Attributes

Soil Quality 

Indicator

Desired Condition

Biological Roots Root growth 

and 

distribution

Root growth, both vertically and laterally, is 

not impeded by land management actions. 

Root distribution and depth is at expected 

levels for vegetation type and successional 

stage.

Plant Community 

Potential and 

Thermodynamics

Plant 

Community 

Composition

The soil is capable of supporting a 

distribution of desirable plant species by 

vegetative layer (i.e., trees, shrubs, 

herbaceous) as identified in the potential 

plant community.

Canopy Cover 

and Soil Cover

Soil temperature and moisture is maintained 

in conditions to support desired floral and 

faunal communities. 

Hydrologic Infiltration Surface 

Structure

Surface structure is as expected for the site 

(e.g., granular, subangular blocky, single 

grain).

Water 

Absorption and 

Storage

Available 

Water

Site water is as expected for the soil type or 

has been improved.

Volcanic Ash 

Cap

Soil ash cap is intact and as expected for the 

site.

Water 

Transmission

Subsurface 

Flow 

Connectivity 

Maintain subsurface flow connectivity (i.e.,

subsurface flow is not obstructed or 

intercepted).

Nutrient 

Cycling

Organic Matter 

Composition

Surface 

Organic 

Matter

The amount of organic material on top of 

the mineral soil is maintained at levels to 

sustain soil microorganisms and provide for 

nutrient cycling. The size, amount, and 

distribution of organic matter maintained on 

the mineral soil on a long term basis is 

consistent with the amounts that occur 

given the local ecological type, climate, and 

normal wildland fire return interval for the 

area.

Fine Woody 

Material

Fine woody material is on site in various 

stages of decay in amounts appropriate for 

habitat type. 
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Soil 

Function

Selected 

Attributes

Soil Quality 

Indicator

Desired Condition

Nutrient 

Cycling 

(continued)

Coarse Woody 

Material

See FW-DC-VEG-05. Snags and coarse woody 

debris

Nutrient 

Availability

Surface (A) 

horizon or 

mollic layer

The amount of organic matter within the 

mineral soil, indicated by the color and 

thickness of the upper soil horizon, is within 

the normal range of characteristics for the 

site, and is distributed normally across the 

area. 4

Nutrient 

Deficiency

Soil nutrients are maintained at levels to 

support desired vegetation.

Carbon Carbon Storage 

Potential

The soil’s ability to store carbon is not 

reduced from current levels.

Support and 

Stability

Stability Surface 

erosion (wind, 

rill, or sheet)

Erosion is occurring at natural levels or not 

evident and an adequate level of soil cover is 

maintained to prevent accelerated erosion.

Support Site support 

(mass erosion, 

landslide 

prone)

Site stability potential is unchanged or 

stability has been improved. Soil stability 

varies from minor soil creep to active land 

flows dependent on soil characteristics, soil 

moisture, and triggers. Management 

activities avoid or do not accelerate 

underlying soil movement rates.

Deposition Soil 

deposition

Deposition is at natural levels and recent 

depositional material is vegetated.

Filtering and 

Buffering

Filtering Soil 

contaminatio

n

The soil acts as a filter and buffer to protect 

the quality of water, air, and other 

resources by immobilizing, degrading or 

detoxifying chemical compounds or excess 

nutrients.

675 FW-DC-SOIL-02. Detrimental Soil Conditions 

676 Surface erosion rates are within the natural range of variation for a given biophysical setting. 

677 There is no degradation of aquatic habitat and water quality from surface erosion rates 

678 resulting from permitted uses and management actions. Ecological and hydrologic functions are 

679 not impaired by soil compaction.

680 FW-DC-SOIL-03. Soil Stability 

681 Soil stability varies from minor soil creep to active land flows dependent on soil characteristics, 

682 soil moisture, and triggers. Management activities avoid or do not accelerate underlying soil 

683 movement rates. 

 4 Soil characteristics are defined by Natural Resources Conservation Service SSUGRO (Soil Survey Geographic 

Database) soil data layer
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684 Objectives

685 FW-OBJ-SOIL-01. Soil Productivity and Function 

686 Within 5 years of plan implementation, stabilize, rehabilitate, or restore natural processes that 

687 support soil productivity and function on 20 to 30 acres per year.

688 Guidelines

689 FW-GDL-SOIL-01. Total Soil Resource Commitment 

690 The Total Soil Resource Commitment is no more than 5 percent of the forest. The soil stability 

691 and support function is maintained within the Total Soil Resource Commitment.

692 Total Soil Resource Commitment is the conversion of a productive site to an essentially non693 productive site (0 to 40 percent of natural productivity) for a period of more than 50 years. 

694 Examples include system roads, administrative sites, developed campgrounds, rock quarries, 

695 mine sites, livestock watering facilities.

696 FW-GDL-SOIL-02. Effective Ground Cover 

697 Minimum effective ground cover following any soil-disturbing management activity should be 

698 as shown in the following table.

699 Table 2. Minimum effective ground cover following any soil-disturbing activity 

700 (source for erosion hazard classes: Forest Service Manual 2520)

Minimum percent effective ground cover

Erosion hazard class 1st year 2nd year

Low (very slight-slight) 20-30 30-40

Medium (moderate) 30-45 40-60

High (severe) 45-60 60-75

Very High (very severe) 60-75 75-90

701 FW-GDL-SOIL-03. Native Topsoil 

702 Native topsoil should be used where practical to meet restoration project objectives.

703 VEGETATION (VEG)

704 CONIFER SYSTEMS

705 Vegetation in the planning area is classified into plant association groups that are based 

706 on potential natural vegetation. Plant association groups are aggregations of plant 

707 associations defined in the plant association guide developed for the Colville National 

708 Forest. The five groups and are listed in table 3.
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709 Table 3. Forest vegetation types for the Colville National Forest

Douglas-fir dry

Northern Rocky Mountain mixed conifer

Western hemlock / Western redcedar

Subalpine fir / Lodgepole pine

Spruce / Subalpine fir

710 Structure: Identifies ranges of tree sizes and canopy cover within the various vegetation 

711 types. Table 4 shows the five different structure classes and associated definitions.

712 Table 4. Forest structure classes

Structure Definition

Early Trees less than 10 inches d.b.h. or canopy cover less than 10 percent

Mid Open Trees 10 to 20 inches d.b.h., canopy cover 10 percent up to 40 percent

Mid Closed Trees 10 to 20 inches d.b.h., canopy cover 40 percent or greater

Late Open Trees 20 inches or greater d.b.h., canopy cover 10 percent up to 40 percent

Late Closed Trees 20 inches or greater d.b.h., canopy cover 40 percent or greater

713 FEDERALLY THREATENED, ENDANGERED AND PROPOSED SPECIES (TES), AND REGIONALLY 

714 SENSITIVE AND STRATEGIC PLANT SPECIES

715 Federally threatened, endangered and sensitive plant species are those formally listed by 

716 the USDI Fish and Wildlife Service under the Federal Endangered Species Act. The R6 

717 Regional Forester Special Status Species List includes federally threatened, endangered and 

718 proposed threatened; and regionally sensitive and strategic plant species. Although no 

719 federally listed plant species are currently known from the Colville National Forest, 38 

720 regionally sensitive plant species do occur on the Forest. Locations for many TES plant 

721 species include unique habitats that may be rare or represent a small portion of a particular 

722 landscape. Meadows, wetlands (marsh, bog, fen, carr, swamp, spring, and seep), riparian 

723 areas, alpine fellfields, rock outcrops, cliffs, or talus are suitable TES plant habitat. Appendix 

724 D provides a list of the sensitive plant species discussed in this plan.

725 NON-CONIFER SYSTEMS

726 Non-forested communities and deciduous forests are described by Clausnitzer et al. 2006 

727 and literature cited there.
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728 VEGETATION WITHIN THE WILDLAND URBAN INTERFACE (WUI)

729 Wildland-urban interface (WUI) is defined as “the line, area, or zone where structures and 

730 other human development meet or intermingle with undeveloped wildland or vegetative 

fuels” (NWCC 2012). 5 731 See glossary for specific definition. 

732 The prioritization of fuels treatments with WUI will follow the National Fire Plan, the 

733 Healthy Forests Restoration Act-PL108-148, and individual community wildfire protection 

734 plans. Individual fuels reduction projects and their relationships to WUI are defined on a 

735 project basis.

736 Desired Condition

737 FW-DC-VEG-01. Plant Species Composition 

738 Native species and native plant communities are the desired dominant vegetation. National 

739 Forest System lands contribute to the diversity, species composition, and structural diversity of 

740 native upland plant communities. The full range of potential natural vegetation is maintained on 

741 the Forest where it supports plant and animal diversity including pollinators and other 

742 invertebrates, and robust ecological function.

743 FW-DC-VEG-02. Insects and Diseases 

744 Native insects, diseases, fungi, bacteria, and viruses engage in their natural (endemic) role in 

745 contributing to ecosystem processes such as pollination, food webs, decay and nutrient cycling, 

746 providing habitats, and functioning as natural control agents. Landscapes provide a patchwork 

747 of varied structural, compositional, and successional stages that ensure the continuation of 

748 these processes.

749 FW-DC-VEG-03. Human Disturbance 

750 Human influences play major or substantial roles in plant community composition, structural 

751 distribution, and disturbance intensities, patterns, and duration. Human activities (such as 

752 wood product removal, wildland fire use, vegetation treatments, forage utilization, or 

753 recreation) are designed to meet desired conditions, move toward desired conditions, or not 

754 impair desired conditions. 

755 FW-DC-VEG-04. Forest Structure

756 Forest structural classes are resilient and compatible with maintaining characteristic 

757 disturbance processes such as wildland fire, insects and diseases. Habitat conditions for 

758 associated species are present. Structure contributes to aesthetic settings, particularly along 

759 scenic byways and highways.

760 Forest openings would be commensurate with historical conditions for size and distribution to 

761 reflect natural disturbance processes. The historical range of variability for forest structure is 

762 the desired condition. Historical range of variability will be evaluated on National Forest system 

763 lands at the appropriate scale given vegetation type and natural disturbance history. Table 5

764 contains desired conditions for each vegetation type.

 5 National Wildfire Coordinating Group.
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765 Table 5. Desired condition for forest structure*

Early 

%

Mid Open 

%

Mid Closed 

%

Late Open 

%

Late Closed 

%

Douglas-fir dry 6−16 2−8 4−13 38−78 1−32

Northern Rocky Mountain mixed 

conifer

9−25 1−3 18−30 4−6 44−60

Western hemlock / Western redcedar 4−24 0 7−27 0 55−83

Subalpine fir / Lodgepole pine 45−65 0 33−53 0 3

Spruce / Subalpine fir 14−46 0 13−41 0 29−57

766 * ST-Sim state and transition model software was used to provide values for the historical range of variability (HRV)

767 FW-DC-VEG-05. Snags and Coarse Woody Debris

768 This desired condition for snag and woody debris levels applies forestwide within forested 

769 habitat types with the exception of the Administrative and Recreation Sites Management Areas.

770 Table 6. Snag and woody debris level requirements

Forest vegetation 

Group

Snag 

DBH 

Class

Snags Per Acre 

(100-acre basis)

Downed logs 

CWD Per acre 

(100-acre basis)

Log size

Douglas-fir Dry 

Forest

10–20 in.

> 20 in.

4−7

2−3

3−7 tons Minimum

10 in. large end x 16 ft.

Preferred

16 in. large end x 33 ft. or larger

Northern Rocky 

Mountain Mixed 

Conifer Forest

10−20 in.

>20 in.

4−40

2−11

5−10 tons Minimum

10 in. large end x 16 ft.

Preferred

16 in. large end x 33 ft. or larger

Western 

Hemlock/ 

Western 

Redcedar

10−14 in.

15−19 in.

21+ in.

10−15

2−6

2−4

25−40 tons Minimum

10 in. large end x 16 ft.

Preferred

16 in. large end x 33 ft. or larger

Subalpine fir/ 

Lodgepole pine

10−14 in.

15−19 in.”

20−24 in.

25+ in.

13−26

3−6

3−4

2−4

16−40 tons Minimum

10 in. large end x 16 ft.

Preferred

16 in. large end x 33 ft. or larger

Spruce/ 

Subalpine fir

10−14 in.

15−19 in.

20+ in.

4−15

2−11

3−-8

5−12 tons Minimum

10 in. large end x 16 ft.

Preferred

16 in. large end x 33 ft. or larger

771 (CWD = coarse woody debris 3-inch diameter or greater)

772 (Sources: Reynolds et al. 2013, Graham et al. 1994, Harvey et al. 1987, Kovalchik and Clausnitzer 2004, Mellen-McLean 

773 et al. 2012, Green et al. 1992, USDA-FS-R6 1993)
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774 FW-DC-VEG-06. Biological Legacies

775 Large trees, snags, and down material are represented across the landscape and large tree 

776 habitat is maintained to support wildlife, aquatic and soil resources and support recovery 

777 processes in the post disturbance ecosystem.

778 Examples of biological legacy components. Not all components will be present within an 

779 individual site-specific project area.

780 Table 7. Biological legacy categories

Legacy Category Examples

Organisms Sexually mature and intact live trees

Tree reproduction (seeding and sapling banks)

Vegetatively reproducing parts (e.g., roots)

Seed banks

Shrub, herb, bryophyte species

Mature and immature animals and microbes

Organic matter Fine litter

Particulate material

Organically derived structures Downed trees and other coarse woody debris

Root wads and pits from uprooted trees

Hollow live trees

Trees with mistletoe brooms or other features 

important for wildlife habitat

Organically derived patterns Soil chemical, physical, microbial properties

Forest understory composition and distribution

781 (Franklin et al. 2007)

782 FW-DC-VEG-07. Native Plant Materials 

783 Locally collected native plant materials are incorporated into project planning and 

784 implementation when restoration, rehabilitation, and revegetation goals support ecosystem 

785 integrity and resilience. Locally adapted plant material inventories are maintained to provide for 

786 revegetation project needs.

787 FW-DC-VEG-08. Native Plant Seeds and Other Genetic Material 

788 Seeds and genetic material from native vascular and non-vascular plants are available for the 

789 purposes of genetic or trait testing, climate change provenance trials, species identification, 

790 restoration, or rehabilitation activities. Seeds and other genetic materials are stored in both 
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791 secure off-site facilities and on-site in existing seed orchards, select trees, evaluation 

792 plantations, and other established genetic resource test sites.

793 FW-DC-VEG-09. Invasive Plant Species Integrated Management 

794 Forest terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems are in an ecological condition that resists introduction, 

795 establishment, and spread of invasive plant species (from private lands to National Forest 

796 System lands, from National Forest System lands to private lands and from different areas 

797 within the boundaries of the Colville National Forest). Established invasive plant infestations are 

798 not increasing in number or size, occur at low densities, and are reduced or removed. Risk of

799 invasive plant infestations is maintained at a low level due to the effectiveness of prevention 

800 actions and the success of restoration efforts.

801 FW-DC-VEG-10. Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Plant Species − Special and 

802 Unique Habitats

803 Special and unique habitats support threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant species 

804 populations and contribute to high quality suitable habitat for these species. Degraded or 

805 diminished special and unique habitats are restored within their natural range of variation.

806 FW-DC-VEG-11. Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Plant Species − Management807 Related Disturbance

808 Ecological conditions and processes that sustain the habitats currently or potentially occupied 

809 by threatened, endangered, or sensitive plant species are retained or restored. The geographic 

810 distributions of sensitive plant species in the Forest Plan area are maintained. This includes 

811 sufficient seed or vegetative reproduction to maintain existing plant populations and associated 

812 native plant community biodiversity. Soil disturbance is managed to avoid degradation of 

813 threatened, endangered. and sensitive plant species and their habitat as well as plant 

814 community composition, structure, and productivity.

815 FW-DC-VEG-12. Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Plant Species − Habitat and 

816 Population Trends 

817 Population trends, amount of occupied habitat, and amount of unoccupied suitable habitat are 

818 stable or increasing for threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant species.

819 FW-DC-VEG-13. Fuels Treatments in Wildland-urban Interface 

820 Fuel treatments continue to reduce surface, ladder, and crown fuels that lower the potential for 

821 high-severity wildfires while providing for diversity within the stands. Generally, treated areas 

822 consist of open understories with overstory trees (conifers and hardwoods) populated by 

823 predominately fire resistant species, with scattered individual or small patches of shrubs and 

824 small trees in the understory, maintaining some cover in important wildlife corridors. Surface, 

825 ladder, and crown fuels have been treated and maintained to allow low-intensity surface 

826 wildland fires (flame lengths of 4 feet or less). Vegetation has been modified (interrupted) to 

827 improve community protection and enhance public and firefighter safety.

828 Crown base heights (height from the forest floor to the bottom most branches of the live tree 

829 crown) are managed to avoid crown fires. Crown cover of forest stands allow for adequate 

830 spacing between crowns to reduce crown fire potential while minimizing effects on surface 

831 wind speeds and drying of surface fuels. 
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832 FW-DC-VEG-14. Snags and Coarse Woody Debris in Wildland-urban Interface

833 Snag levels would follow desired conditions for snags within the specific vegetation type unless 

834 there are site-specific safety concerns (ex: within 1.5 to 2 tree lengths of structures). Coarse 

835 woody debris levels would generally be at the lower end of desired conditions for the specific 

836 vegetation type to reduce fuel load and wildfire risk.

837 FW-DC-VEG-15. Treatment Priorities in Wildland-urban Interface

838 Fuel treatments are emphasized in wildland-urban interface and areas that exhibit the potential 

839 for high-severity fire behavior that could impact private or other agency lands. 

840 FW-DC-VEG-16. Maintenance in Wildland-urban Interface 

841 A pattern of treatments are established and maintained that are effective in modifying fire 

842 behavior as identified in individual community wildfire protection plans.

843 Objectives

844 FW-OBJ-VEG-01. Restoration 

845 Initiate active management activities on 6 to 12 thousand acres per year over the next 15 years 

846 to move structure toward desired conditions at landscape scales in order to have landscapes 

847 dominated by Fire Regime Condition Class I, with the remainder in Fire Regime Condition Class 

848 II trending toward Fire Regime Condition Class I.

849 FW-OBJ-VEG-02. Native Vegetation Restoration and Invasive Plants Prevention 

850 Within 15 years of plan implementation, actively restore an annual average of 50 acres of native 

851 vegetation consistent with site capability and integrated resource management objectives. 

852 Restoration could include mulching, seeding, or planting to promote revegetation of native 

853 plants to help resist introduction, establishment, and spread of invasive plant species.

854 FW-OBJ-VEG-03. Invasive Plant Treatment 

855 Protect ecosystems from the impacts of invasive plants through an integrated approach that 

856 emphasizes prevention, early detection, and early treatment. Conduct invasive plant treatments 

857 in an effective manner that minimizes adverse effects on human health, non-target plants, fish 

858 and wildlife and their habitats. Reduce reliance on herbicides over time. Within 15 years of plan 

859 implementation, control an average 2,000 acres per year.

860 FW-OBJ-VEG-04. Non-Forest Habitats 

861 Increase restoration so that 5 to 10 acres of special and unique habitats are treated annually 

862 within 15 years of plan implementation.

863 Standards

864 FW-STD-VEG-01. Wildland Fire − Protection of Natural Resources and Property 

865 Protect human life as the single, overriding priority. Set priorities among protecting human 

866 communities and community infrastructure, other property and improvements, and natural and 

867 cultural resources based on the values to be protected, human health and safety, and the costs 

868 of protection. Once people have been committed to an incident, the highest value to be 

869 protected is human resources. After protection of human life, all other protection decisions are 
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870 to be made based on values to be protected, human health and safety, and the costs of 

871 protection. 

872 FW-STD-VEG-02. Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Plant Species − Surveys 

873 Surveys for threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant species shall be conducted in suitable 

874 habitat on National Forest System lands before habitat-disturbing activities to identify and 

875 protect vulnerable populations. All existing sites are identified and managed to support rare 

876 species recovery on National Forest System lands. Suitable habitat shall be managed to enhance 

877 or maintain rare species occurrences on the Forest.

878 FW-STD-VEG-03. Potential Invasive Plant Risk Factors

879 Gravel, fill sand, and rock used for roadwork shall be deemed to be weed free. Pit materials 

880 from infested sources shall be treated before use. Use only pelletized or certified weed-free 

881 feed on all National Forest System lands.

882 Use weed-free straw and mulch for all projects, conducted or authorized by the Forest Service, 

883 on National Forest System Lands. 

884 Prior to entering National Forest System lands, clean all vehicles and equipment that will 

885 operate outside of the road prism for actions authorized or conducted by written permit to 

886 remove invasive plant seeds and plant material.

887 FW-STD-VEG-04. Timber Production

888 Regulated timber harvest activities shall occur only on those lands classified as suitable for 

889 timber production. 

890 FW-STD-VEG-05. Harvest Openings

891 If individual harvest openings created by even-aged silvicultural practices are proposed that 

892 would exceed 40 acres, then NFMA requirements regarding public notification and approval 

893 shall be followed. These requirements do not apply to the size of areas harvested because of 

894 catastrophes such as, but not limited to, wildfire, insect and disease attacks, or wind storms. 

895 FW-STD-VEG-06. Restocking

896 Timber harvest activities shall only be used when there is reasonable assurance of restocking 

897 within 5 years after final regeneration harvest. Restocking level is prescribed in a site-specific 

898 silviculture prescription for a project treatment unit and is determined to be adequate 

899 depending on the objectives and desired conditions for the Plan area. In some instances, such 

900 as when lands are harvested to create openings for fuel breaks, wildlife habitat, and vistas or to 

901 prevent encroaching trees, it is adequate not to restock. 

902 FW-STD-VEG-07. Even-aged Management

903 Even-aged stands shall generally have reached or surpassed culmination of mean annual 

904 increment (95 percent of CMAI, as measured by cubic volume) prior to regeneration harvest, 

905 unless the following conditions have been identified during project development: 

906 • When such harvesting would assist in reducing fire hazard within the WUI [wildland907 urban interface]; and 

908 • When harvesting of stands will trend landscapes toward vegetation desired conditions. 
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909 FW-STD-VEG-08. Even-aged Management

910 Even-aged prescriptions (clearcut, seed tree, shelterwood, etc.) shall be used when appropriate 

911 to meet Forest Plan direction.

912 FW-STD-VEG-09. Harvest Systems

913 Harvesting systems shall be selected based on their ability to meet desired conditions and not 

914 strictly on their ability to provide the greatest dollar return. 

915 Guidelines

916 FW-GDL-VEG-01. Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Plant Species – Disturbance 

917 in Occupied Habitat 

918 Soil and habitat disturbance should be managed within occupied habitat to the extent 

919 practicable to maintain or enhance threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant populations 

920 and avoid invasive plant species establishment or spread. Consequently, occupied habitat 

921 should not be used for timber harvest, fuel breaks or developments associated with wildfire 

922 suppression, delivery of fire retardant or petroleum products, placement of stock-handling 

923 facilities, recreation, or special use developments. A 100-foot buffer between the occupied 

924 habitat and these management activities should be maintained.

925 Trees in occupied habitat that are felled for safety reasons should be retained on site as needed 

926 to maintain, protect, or enhance habitat unless such action is detrimental to the threatened, 

927 endangered, and sensitive species population or habitat and represents a threat through 

928 physical impacts or potential uncharacteristic wildfire.

929 All new road and trail construction should be designed to avoid the occupied habitat of 

930 threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant species (minimum 100-foot buffer).

931 Use of prescribed fire should be avoided in occupied habitat except in areas occupied by fire932 dependent or fire-tolerant species. Habitat restoration activities may proceed when designed to 

933 avoid impacts to threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant species.

934 Slash piles and other fuels should be managed to avoid the occupied habitat of threatened, 

935 endangered, and sensitive species (minimum 100-foot buffer).

936 Grazing management (including timing, intensity, duration, frequency of use, and type and class 

937 of livestock) should allow for completion of threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant species 

938 annual life cycle and development and dispersal of reproductive materials like seed and spores. 

939 Salting or water developments should not be authorized or allowed such that they reduce 

940 threatened, endangered, or sensitive plant populations.

941 Mining operations should be authorized or allowed only if activities are planned to avoid 

942 threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant species.

943 FW-GDL-VEG-02. Plant Material Collection for Conservation Purposes

944 Commercial or non-commercial permits or authorizations should generally be issued for 

945 collection of seed or plant materials when project objectives are consistent with rare species 

946 conservation practices (these practices could include seed storage in recognized seed banks, or 

947 collection of plant material for restoration and rehabilitation purposes, or scientific research 

948 that benefits species viability). 
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949 FW-GDL-VEG-03. Potential Invasive Plant Risk Factors

950 The method, timing, and intensity of land use activities should not promote the introduction, 

951 establishment, or spread of invasive species.

952 FW-GDL-VEG-04. Habitat Rehabilitation 

953 Appropriate seeding, planting, or mulching methods should be used to rehabilitate degraded 

954 sites resulting from invasive plants, forest activities, or other disturbances when necessary to 

955 prevent reinvasion and promote ecosystem resiliency. Rehabilitation seeding and/or planting 

956 using native plants can be used for invasive species projects in habitat occupied by threatened, 

957 endangered, and sensitive species or in species management areas where appropriate.

958 FW-GDL-VEG-05. Invasive Species

959 Infestations of invasive species should be prioritized for treatment at the landscape, watershed 

960 or larger multiple forest/multiple owner scale. Utilize a combination of available tools including 

961 manual, cultural, mechanical, chemical, and biological methods to control invasive and 

962 unwanted native plants.

963 FW-GDL-VEG-06. Invasive Species – Early Detection and Rapid Response 

964 Principles and processes of early detection and rapid response (EDRR) should be utilized to find, 

965 identify, and quantify new invasive species occurrences. EDRR can be coupled with other 

966 integrated activities to rapidly assess and respond with quick and immediate actions to 

967 eradicate, control, or contain invasive species.

968 FW-GDL-VEG-07. Invasive Species – Pesticide Use

969 Minimize use of pesticides (including herbicides), formulations or tank mixes where plausible 

970 exposures indicate potential harm to human health, wildlife, or fish. Design projects to minimize 

971 or eliminate risks of adverse effects from chemical use. Notify the public prior to using 

972 pesticides (including herbicides) within the national forest.

973 FW-GDL-VEG-08. Native and Non-native Insects and Pathogens

974 Intervention may occur when native and non-native insects and pathogens are not operating in 

975 their characteristic role or when site-specific objectives (ex: impacts to key watersheds, 

976 increased wildfire hazard, potential impacts to the recovery of threatened or endangered 

977 species, or maintaining late and old forest structure) are at risk.

978 WATER RESOURCES (WR)

979 This section includes background information and plan components for forestwide aquatic 

980 and riparian systems, and management direction specific to source water protection areas, 

981 key watersheds, and focus and priority watersheds. Plan components throughout this 

982 section are applied at different watershed scales depending on the resource, and are 

983 identified in each plan component, where applicable. Generally Forest planning is at the 

984 subbasin scale, and project planning is at the smaller 5th field watershed or subwatershed 

985 scale. Figure 4 illustrates the hierarchy of different watershed scales and terminology used 

986 throughout this document.
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987

988 Figure 4. Illustration of watershed hierarchy from the basin to subwatershed scale for the Ninemile 

989 subwatershed

990 AQUATIC AND RIPARIAN SYSTEMS

991 Aquatic and riparian direction focuses on maintenance and restoration of the ecological 

992 processes responsible for creating and sustaining aquatic and riparian ecosystems across 

993 National Forest System lands. Aquatic and riparian plan direction is expected to contribute 

994 to networks of properly functioning watersheds, recovery of Endangered Species Act (ESA) 
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995 listed fish, healthy populations of fish and other aquatic and riparian-dependent organisms 

996 and provide a basis for meeting water quality standards. 

997 SOURCE WATER PROTECTION AREAS

998 A 1996 amendment to the 1974 Safe Drinking Water Act requires identification of both 

999 surface and groundwater source water protection areas upstream of drinking water 

1000 systems that serve more than 25 individuals. Source water protection areas on the Forest 

1001 are delineated by the Washington Department of Health Office of Drinking Water. 

1002 Source water is untreated drinking water from streams, rivers, lakes, springs, and aquifers 

1003 that provides public drinking water. The goal of source water protection is to provide long1004 term safe, reliable drinking water. Source water protection areas are those that are 

1005 delineated and mapped by the State of Washington for each federally regulated public 

1006 water system. Waters of the Colville National Forest are upstream of surface water systems 

1007 that service Cusick, Grand Coulee, Kettle Falls, Metaline, Metaline Falls, Orient, and 

1008 Riverbend.

1009 Management direction underlying the source water protection areas is to be followed in 

1010 addition to providing for water quality. Management guidance for aquatic and riparian 

1011 ecosystems and key watersheds, and implementation of national best management 

1012 practices provide for water quality protection.

1013 KEY WATERSHEDS

1014 Key watersheds are a subset of the watersheds across the Colville National Forest and are 

1015 designated at the subwatershed scale (figure 5 and table 8). They are a network of 

1016 watersheds that serve as strongholds for important aquatic resources and are crucial to 

1017 threatened and endangered aquatic species and provide high quality water important for 

1018 maintenance of downstream populations. Management in key watersheds emphasizes 

1019 minimizing risk and maximizing passive and active restoration or preservation of watershed 

1020 function and aquatic and riparian habitat.
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1021

1022 Figure 5. Key watersheds

1023 Table 8. Key watersheds on the Colville National Forest

Key Watershed

Number 

Key Watershed Name Total 

Subwatershed

Acres

Colville National Forest

Ownership

Acres

170102160102 Winchester Creek 10,482 5,628

170102160103 Smalle Creek 17,754 11,058

170102160201 Exposure Creek-Pend Oreille River 41,224 14,463

170102160206 Tacoma Creek 39,519 27,182

170102160302 West Branch 

Le Clerc Creek 

21,672 15,099

170102160303 East Branch

Le Clerc Creek 

26,663 11,145

170102160304 Ruby Creek 19,597 18,385

170102160401 Harvey Creek 32,999 27,554
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Key Watershed

Number 

Key Watershed Name Total 

Subwatershed

Acres

Colville National Forest

Ownership

Acres

170102160402 Headwaters

Sullivan Creek 

45,516 45,417

170102160403 North Fork Sullivan

Creek 

12,709 11,259

170102160702 Headwaters South

Salmo River 

20,697 12,472

170102160902 Sweet CreekPend Oreille River 41,832 28,890

170102160903 Slate Creek 20,195 19,907

170102161003 Cedar Creek 17,209 5,359

170200011004 North Fork Deep Creek 49,257 26,634

170200011301 South Fork

Sherman Creek 

22,004 21,899

170200011302 Upper Sherman Creek 26,381 26,260

170200011303 Lower Sherman Creek 20,987 15,998

170200011306 Barnaby Creek 23,108 14,299

170200011401 Upper Hall Creek 31,648 13,786

170200021301 Trout Creek 23,435 14,122

170200021701 Tonata Creek 14,453 13,781

170200021907 East Deer CreekKettle River 23,385 15,443

170200022002 North Fork

Deadman Creek 

13,450 13,185

170200022003 Deadman Creek 26,518 22,300

Total 642692 451,525

1024 FOCUS AND PRIORITY WATERSHEDS

1025 Watershed, riparian, and aquatic habitat restoration has been a priority in Region 6 for a 

1026 number of years. The region recognized that the most efficient and effective way to 

1027 improve watershed conditions and riparian and aquatic habitat would be to work with 

1028 partners to target restoration efforts in specific watersheds, identify restoration needs, and 

1029 focus restoration efforts on the factors degrading watershed, riparian and aquatic habitat 
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1030 conditions within the identified watersheds that were technically feasible and socially 

1031 acceptable before moving to restore other watersheds. To that end, the region developed 

1032 the Region 6 Aquatic Restoration Strategy (ARS) in 2005. The ARS was developed to provide 

1033 guidance for watershed, riparian and aquatic habitat restoration at a regional scale using 

both passive and active restoration. 6 1034

1035 Through implementation of the ARS, the region prioritized basins for active restoration. 

1036 Forests identified focus watersheds at the 5th field watershed scale to be priorities for 

1037 active watershed, riparian, and aquatic restoration. The Colville National Forest identified 

1038 three focus watersheds: Le Clerc-Pend Oreille River, Upper San Poil and Chewelah Creek1039 Colville River.

1040 In 2010, the national forests throughout the U.S. were mandated to assess the current 

1041 condition of NFS watersheds utilizing the Watershed Condition Framework (WCF). The 

1042 results of the WCF were used to identify priority subwatersheds where focused 

1043 management over a 5- to 10-year period would improve impaired watershed condition. 

1044 The Colville identified three priority subwatersheds through this process; the West Branch 

1045 Le Clerc Creek, East Branch Le Clerc Creek, and Ninemile Creek. Once essential projects in 

1046 existing subwatersheds are completed, additional priority subwatersheds will be identified.

1047 The priorities for watershed, riparian, and aquatic habitat restoration have been further 

1048 refined through the identification of Key Watersheds during the forest plan revision 

1049 process. As discussed above, Key Watersheds are identified at the subwatershed scale to 

1050 aid the conservation and recovery of aquatic focal species. In some cases, Focus 

1051 Watersheds (e.g., Le Clerc Creek-Pend Oreille River) include Key Watersheds and priority 

1052 watersheds overlap with the identified Key Watersheds (West Branch and East Branches Le 

1053 Clerc Creek). Specific restoration objectives have been identified for Key Watersheds in the 

1054 Plan and the Key Watersheds are the priority for active restoration. The Focus and Priority 

1055 Watersheds that are not in the Key Watershed network are used to target implementation 

1056 of short-term, opportunistic restoration work such as in subwatersheds that are a 

1057 restoration priority for partners but not necessarily a priority to benefit the aquatic focal 

1058 species.

1059 WATERSHED CONDITION 

1060 Measurement of improvement in watershed condition in this Forest Plan revision is 

1061 through improvement in watershed condition class measured through the WCF procedure.

1062 The WCF process identified current conditions of subwatersheds on NFS lands. The results 

1063 of the assessment were used to identify priority subwatersheds where focused 

1064 management over a 5- to 10-year period could improve constituent elements that impair 

1065 watershed function.

1066 Subwatersheds are classified by WCF based on geomorphic, hydrologic, and biotic integrity 

1067 relative to potential natural condition, which relates to geomorphic, hydrologic, and 

1068 biological watershed function. Integrity is evaluated in the context of the natural 

 6 Passive restoration is the broad-scale natural recovery of the ecosystem and includes coordination, analysis, 

planning, and design activities to maintain or improve habitat conditions while implementing projects across 

multiple resource areas.

Active restoration includes management actions with the specific goal of restoring the watershed processes that 

improve aquatic and riparian habitat function. Active restoration is focused on a more limited scale than passive 

restoration.
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43

1069 disturbance regime and geoclimatic setting and includes aquatic and terrestrial 

1070 components because water quality and aquatic habitat are related to the integrity and 

1071 functionality of the upland and riparian areas across the watershed (Potyondy and Geier 

1072 2010).

1073 Subwatersheds on the Colville National Forest were classified into three categories 

1074 (watershed condition classes) through the WCF 

1075 • Class 1: Functioning Properly—SWSs [subwatersheds] that exhibit high geomorphic, 

1076 hydrologic, and biotic integrity relative to natural potential conditions. The watershed is 

1077 functioning similar to natural wildland conditions (Karr and Chu 1999, Lackey 2001). There 

1078 are minimal adverse human impacts on natural physical or biological processes, and the 

1079 watershed is able to naturally recover to previous condition in response to natural and 

1080 human disturbance (Yount and Neimi 1990);

1081 • Class 2: Functioning at Risk—SWSs exhibit moderate integrity as described above;

1082 • Class 3: Impaired Function—SWSs exhibit low integrity as described above. Adverse 

1083 human impacts have caused a threshold to be exceeded where the watershed is no longer 

1084 as resilient to physical and biological processes.

1085

1086 Figure 6. Current watershed condition class for subwatersheds across the Forest
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44

1087 Desired Condition

1088 FW-DC-WR-01. Natural Disturbance Regime of Aquatic and Riparian Systems 

1089 National Forest System lands contribute to the distribution, diversity, and resiliency of 

1090 watershed and landscape-scale features, including natural disturbance regimes, of the aquatic, 

1091 riparian, and wetland ecosystems to which plant and animal species, populations, and 

1092 communities are adapted. Subbasin scale is used for Forest planning and 5th field watershed or 

1093 subwatershed scale is used for project planning.

1094 FW-DC-WR-02. Hydrologic and Aquatic and Riparian Habitat Connectivity 

1095 National Forest System lands contribute to uninterrupted physical and biological processes 

1096 within and between watersheds. Floodplains, groundwater-dependent systems, upslope areas, 

1097 headwater tributaries, and intact habitat refugia provide vertical, horizontal, and drainage 

1098 network connections. These network connections provide chemically and physically 

1099 unobstructed routes to areas critical for fulfilling life history requirements of aquatic, riparian1100 dependent, and many terrestrial species of plants and animals. Subbasin scale is used for Forest 

1101 planning, and 5th field watershed or subwatershed scale is used for project planning.

1102 FW-DC-WR-03. Self-Sustaining Native and Aquatic and Riparian-Dependent Species 

1103 National Forest System lands contribute to habitat and ecological conditions that are capable of 

1104 supporting self-sustaining populations of native aquatic and riparian-dependent plant and 

1105 animal species. Subbasin scale is used for Forest planning and 5th field watershed or 

1106 subwatershed scale is used for project planning.

1107 FW-DC-WR-04. Physical Integrity of Aquatic and Riparian Habitat 

1108 National Forest System lands contribute to the physical integrity of the aquatic system and 

1109 riparian habitat, including banks and floodplains. Fifth field watershed scale is used for Forest 

1110 planning and 5th field watershed or subwatershed scale is used for project planning.

1111 FW-DC-WR-05. Water Quality 

1112 National Forest System lands contribute to water quality necessary to support healthy riparian, 

1113 aquatic, and wetland ecosystems. Water quality is within the range that maintains the 

1114 biological, physical, and chemical integrity and benefits survival, growth, reproduction, and 

1115 migration of individuals composing aquatic and riparian communities. Subbasin scale is used for 

1116 forest planning and 5th field watershed or subwatershed scale is used for project planning. 

1117 FW-DC-WR-06. Sediment Regimes 

1118 National Forest System lands contribute to the sediment regime within the natural range of 

1119 variation. Elements of the sediment regime include the timing, volume, rate, and character of 

1120 sediment input, storage, and transport. Watershed scale is used for Forest planning and 5th 

1121 field watershed or subwatershed scale is used for project planning.

1122 FW-DC-WR-07. In-stream Flows 

1123 National Forest System lands contribute to in-stream flows sufficient to create and sustain 

1124 riparian, aquatic, and wetland habitats and to retain patterns of sediment, nutrient, and wood 

1125 routing. The timing, magnitude, duration, and spatial distribution of peak, high, and low flows 

1126 functions in concert with local geology, valley types, soils and geomorphology. Subbasin scale is 
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45

1127 used for Forest planning and 5th field watershed or subwatershed scale is used for project 

1128 planning. 

1129 FW-DC-WR-08. Floodplain Inundation

1130 National Forest System lands contribute to the timing, variability, and duration of floodplain 

1131 inundation that are within the natural range of variation. Fifth field watershed or subwatershed 

1132 scale is used for both Forest and project planning. 

1133 FW-DC-WR-09. Wetlands, Seeps, Springs, and Other Groundwater-Dependent 

1134 Systems 

1135 National Forest System lands contribute to the timing, variability, and water table elevation in 

1136 wetlands, seeps, springs and other groundwater-dependent systems. These features are within 

1137 or moving toward proper functioning condition. Subwatershed scale is used for both Forest and 

1138 project planning. 

1139 FW-DC-WR-10. Native Plant Communities 

1140 National Forest System lands contribute to the species composition and structural diversity of 

1141 native plant communities in riparian management areas (including wetlands). These contribute 

1142 to adequate summer and winter thermal regulation, nutrient filtering, appropriate rates of 

1143 surface erosion, bank erosion, and channel migration; and supply amounts and distributions of 

1144 coarse woody debris and fine particulate organic matter sufficient to sustain physical complexity 

1145 and stability. Subbasin scale is used for Forest planning and 5th field watershed or 

1146 subwatershed scale is used for project planning.

1147 FW-DC-WR-11. Aquatic Invasive and Non-Native Species 

1148 Aquatic invasive species do not occur as a component of lake, stream, and other riparian1149 related ecosystems or compete with native species for critical resources. Subbasin scale is used 

1150 for Forest planning. Fifth field watershed or subwatershed scale is used for project planning. 

1151 FW-DC-WR-12. Aquatic Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Species 

1152 National Forest System lands contribute to the recovery of federally threatened and 

1153 endangered aquatic species and conservation of Regional Forester’s sensitive aquatic species. 

1154 Aquatic habitat supports spawning, rearing, and/or other key life history requirements. 

1155 Subbasin scale is used for Forest planning and 5th field watershed or subwatershed scale is used 

1156 for project planning.

1157 FW-DC-WR-13. Water Quality Standards in Source Water Protection Areas

1158 National Forest system lands in ground and surface source water protection areas provide water 

1159 that meets or exceeds state water quality standards for drinking water with appropriate 

1160 treatment.

1161 FW-DC-WR-14. Key Watershed Network 

1162 Networks of watersheds with functional habitat and functionally intact ecosystems contribute 

1163 to and enhance conservation and recovery of specific threatened, endangered, and/or sensitive 

1164 aquatic species and high water quality and natural flow regimes. The networks contribute to 

1165 short-term conservation and long-term recovery at the Recovery Unit or other appropriate 

1166 population scale. 
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1167 FW-DC-WR-15. Roads in Key Watersheds 

1168 Roads in key watersheds are not a risk to the function of soil and water resources. Roads do not 

1169 disrupt hydrologic or aquatic habitat function or threatened and endangered species biological 

1170 and behavioral attributes. 

1171 FW-DC-WR-16. Key Watershed Integrity 

1172 Key watersheds have high watershed integrity and contribute to resilient aquatic and riparian 

1173 ecosystems.

1174 FW-DC-WR-17. Focus and Priority Watershed Network 

1175 Focus and priority watersheds contribute to the sustainability of aquatic and riparian systems 

1176 and species and provide resilient, productive habitat and high water quality.

1177 Objectives

1178 FW-OBJ-WR-01. Aquatic Invasive Species 

1179 Within the next 15 years, implement aquatic invasive species prevention measures at all 

1180 developed recreation sites providing direct and/or indirect access to water bodies, such as boat 

1181 ramps, campgrounds, and day use areas that provide portal zones for hand carried watercraft. 

1182 Implement aquatic invasive species prevention measures as part of all aquatic survey and 

1183 inventory procedures and other management activities that pose high potential for invasion 

1184 vectors to occur. For guidance on invasive riparian plants see Vegetation Desired Condition 

1185 section.

1186 FW-OBJ-WR-02. Aquatic Invasive and Non-Native Species 

1187 Within the next 15 years, implement aquatic invasive species control and eradication at 10 sites 

1188 where such invasions have become established and prevent attainment of listed fish recovery 

1189 plan goals and/or effects to social, economic, and ecological systems are determined to be 

1190 unacceptable. 

1191 FW-OBJ-WR-03. General Watershed Function and Restoration 

1192 Within the next 15 years, decrease sediment delivery from management activities on 

1193 1,000 acres including but not limited to roads, trails, livestock, unauthorized off-highway vehicle 

1194 use, vegetation management, and dispersed and developed campsites. Restore hydrologic, 

1195 aquatic and riparian processes through activities that stabilize stream bank erosion, and other 

1196 accelerated channel destabilizing processes (i.e., headcutting), improve lateral and vertical 

1197 hydrologic connectivity, and improve stream channel and floodplain function on 10 miles of 

1198 streams.

1199 FW-OBJ-WR-04. Fish Habitat Improvement 

1200 Within 15 years restore aquatic organism passage for all life stages of native species at 45 

1201 road/stream crossings and man-made instream structures such as water diversions and dams 

1202 outside of key watersheds. Culverts and other passage improvements are to be designed to 

1203 restore and maintain hydrologic and aquatic habitat function and stream channel resiliency to a 

1204 range of flows through natural channel design and other acceptable treatment measures.
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1205 FW-OBJ-WR-05. Key Watershed Restoration Prioritization 

1206 Management in key watersheds focuses on restoration or preservation of watershed, aquatic, 

1207 and riparian function and recovery of threatened and endangered species. Improve watershed 

1208 condition class in key watersheds that are a priority for restoration within 15 years of forest plan 

1209 implementation. Key watersheds that are a priority for restoration include:

1210 East Branch LeClerc Creek, West Branch LeClerc Creek, Deadman Creek, Barnaby 

1211 Creek, Harvey Creek, North Fork Deadman Creek, North Fork Sullivan Creek, 

1212 Sullivan Creek, Ruby Creek, Tonata Creek, Upper Sherman Creek, and South Fork 

1213 Sherman Creek subwatersheds.

1214 Additional key watersheds that are a priority for restoration will be identified, as appropriate, 

1215 through the life of the plan.

1216 FW-OBJ-WR-06. Key Watershed Road Treatments 

1217 Reduce road-hydrologic connectivity and sediment delivery on roads through storm damage 

1218 risk reduction treatments, full hydrologic decommissioning, and other accepted treatment 

1219 measures on 78 miles of hydrologically connected road within 15 years of forest plan 

1220 implementation.

1221 Restore or maintain aquatic organism passage and improve hydrologic and aquatic habitat 

1222 function at 50 road/stream crossings for all native aquatic species, seasons, flows, and life 

1223 stages within 15 years of forest plan implementation through culvert replacement or crossing 

1224 improvement and natural channel design or other acceptable treatment measures that provide 

1225 for natural stream channel function at all flows.

1226 FW-OBJ-WR-07. Key Watershed Range Infrastructure Improvements 

1227 Improve hydrologic and aquatic function through range infrastructure improvements, including 

1228 riparian fencing, movement and improvement of watering troughs, and other acceptable 

1229 treatments over 250 acres within 15 years of plan implementation.

1230 FW-OBJ-WR-08. Upland Vegetation Structure in Riparian Management Areas in Key 

1231 Watersheds 

1232 Move upland vegetation within riparian management areas in key watersheds toward historic 

1233 range of variability (table 8) on 1,200 acres within 15 years of plan implementation.

1234 FW-OBJ-WR-09. Stream Restoration in Key Watersheds 

1235 Restore hydrologic, geomorphic, and riparian process and function on 76 miles of stream within 

1236 15 years of forest plan implementation through activities including streambank stabilization, 

1237 restoration of lateral and vertical hydrologic connectivity and improvement of stream channel 

1238 and floodplain function.

1239 FW-OBJ-WR-10. Watershed Restoration in Focus and Priority Watersheds 

1240 Over 15 years, implement the watershed condition framework through completion of essential 

1241 projects outlined in watershed action plans in existing focus and priority watersheds to improve 

1242 watershed condition class. Focus watersheds designated at the 5th field watershed scale 

1243 include Upper Sanpoil, Chewelah Creek-Colville River, and LeClerc Creek-Pend Oreille River 

1244 watersheds. Priority watersheds designated at the subwatershed scale include Ninemile Creek, 

1245 East Branch LeClerc Creek, and West Branch LeClerc Creek subwatersheds.
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48

1246 Standards

1247 FW-STD-WR-01. Aquatic Invasive Species − In-Water Work 

1248 Implement prevention measures for in-water projects to decrease the potential for aquatic 

1249 invasive species transference into non-infested water bodies.

1250 FW-STD-WR-02. Construction of New Roads, Trails and Developed Recreation Sites 

1251 New roads and trails will be designed to minimize disruption of natural hydrologic processes at 

1252 perennial and intermittent stream crossings, valley bottoms, valley approaches and other over 

1253 land drainage features. New roads, trails and developed recreation sites will integrate features, 

1254 such as, but not limited to, rocked stream crossings, drain dips, sediment filtration, cross drains 

1255 and crossings that minimize unnatural stream constriction, bank erosion, channel incision, 

1256 sedimentation, or disruption of surface and subsurface flow paths. 

1257 FW-STD-WR-03. Road Construction and Decommissioning in Key Watersheds 

1258 There shall be no net increase (i.e., for each mile of new road constructed, at least one mile of 

1259 road must be decommissioned) at any time in the mileage of National Forest System roads in 

1260 any key watershed unless doing so results in a reduction in road-related risk to watershed 

1261 condition. The decommissioned road shall be in a hydrologically stable and self-maintaining 

1262 condition. Priority for decommissioning will be given to roads that pose the greatest relative 

1263 ecological risks to riparian and aquatic function.

1264 FW-STD-WR-04. Hydroelectric and Other Water Development Authorizations in Key 

1265 Watersheds 

1266 Hydroelectric and other water development authorizations shall include requirements for in1267 stream flows and habitat conditions that maintain or restore native fish and other desired 

1268 aquatic species populations, riparian-dependent resources, favorable channel conditions, and 

1269 aquatic connectivity.

1270 FW-STD-WR-05. New Hydroelectric Facilities and Water Developments 

1271 New hydroelectric facilities and water developments shall not be located in a key watershed 

1272 unless it can be demonstrated they have minimal risks and/or no adverse effects to fish and 

1273 water resources for which the key watershed was established.

1274 Guidelines

1275 FW-GDL-WR-01. Aquatic Invasive Species − Wildfire Suppression Equipment 

1276 During wildfire suppression, cross contamination between streams and lakes from pumps, 

1277 suction, and dipping devices should be avoided. Dumping water directly from one stream or 

1278 lake into another should be avoided. Water storage and conveyance components of water 

1279 tenders, engines, and aircraft should be disinfected prior to use on a new on-forest incident.

1280 FW-GDL-WR-02. Aquatic Invasive Species − Aquatic Resource Sampling 

1281 Aquatic sampling equipment should be disinfected prior to use in new stream or lake locations.

1282 FW-GDL-WR-03. Aquatic Invasive Species − Early Detection and Rapid Response 

1283 Principles and processes of early detection and rapid response (EDRR) to find, identify and 

1284 quantify new aquatic invasive species occurrences should be utilized. EDRR should be coupled 
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49

1285 with other integrated activities to rapidly assess and respond with quick and immediate actions 

1286 to eradicate, control, or contain aquatic invasive species.

1287 FW-GDL-WR-04. Watershed Restoration

1288 Use the restoration methods that maximize the use of natural ecological processes for long1289 term sustainability and minimize the need for long-term maintenance.

1290 FW-GDL-WR-05. Hydrologic Function of Roads, Trails, and Developed Recreation 

1291 Sites 

1292 Roads and trails should be maintained to minimize disruption of natural hydrologic processes at 

1293 perennial and intermittent stream crossings, valley bottoms, valley approaches and other over1294 land drainage features. Roads and trails should integrate features, such as, but not limited to, 

1295 rocked stream crossings, drain dips, sediment filtration, cross drains and crossings that minimize 

1296 unnatural stream constriction, bank erosion, channel incision, sedimentation, or disruption of 

1297 surface and subsurface flow paths.

1298 WILDLIFE HABITATS (WL)

1299 The land management plan focuses on four groups of terrestrial wildlife species: 

1300 threatened and endangered (T&E), surrogate species (SS), management indicator/focal 

1301 species (MIS/FS), and ungulate species. In addition, some plan components address general 

1302 wildlife habitat issues and enhance viability of all species. Threatened and endangered 

1303 species are those formally listed under the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973. 

1304 Surrogate species represent other species that share similar habitat and risk factors and 

1305 include former Region 6 sensitive species, state-listed species, or other species for which 

1306 the published literature has identified a concern for their viability. Management 

1307 indicator/focal species are a subset of the surrogate species that will be used for 

1308 monitoring. Ungulate species include big-game species that are of high interest to the 

1309 public. Several desired condition statements within this plan refer to ‘habitat effectiveness’ 

1310 or ‘zone of influence.’ Methods to address habitat effectiveness and zone of influence can 

1311 be found in Gaines et al. 2003; however, during the life of the plan these methods may be 

1312 replaced by new scientific/research developments.

1313 THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES

1314 Plan direction is consistent with existing recovery plans for federally listed species and 

1315 applies in those areas identified as recovery areas for each listed species as identified by 

1316 the USDI Fish and Wildlife Service. Three federally listed wildlife species are found on the 

1317 Forest. These include grizzly bear (threatened), woodland caribou (endangered), and 

1318 Canada lynx (threatened).

1319 Canada Lynx: The Colville National Forest includes a core area (the Kettle Crest) that is 

1320 important for the recovery of Canada lynx in Washington. The Forest does not have any 

1321 designated critical habitat for Canada lynx. Habitat conditions (e.g., current habitat

1322 compared to Desired Conditions) are appropriately assessed at the lynx analysis unit (LAU) 

1323 scale.

1324 Grizzly bear: The Selkirk Mountains Grizzly Bear Recovery Area includes a portion of the 

1325 Colville National Forest located east of the Pend Oreille River. The recovery area is divided 

1326 into grizzly bear management units (BMUs), three of which are shared between the Colville 

1327 and Idaho Panhandle National Forests. These analysis units are large enough to allow the 
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50

1328 assessment of seasonal habitats and the cumulative effects of human activities on these 

1329 habitats. Within BMUs, management is designed to ensure that important seasonal 

1330 habitats are available to bears within core areas. 

1331 Core areas are identified as areas that are more than 500 meters from an open road, 

1332 restricted-use road, motorized trail, or high-use hiking trail (more than 20 parties per 

1333 week). Any roads within core areas must be physically un-drivable (e.g., bermed, brushed1334 in). Evaluation of the potential effects of proposed actions on grizzly bear recovery follows 

1335 the assessment process developed by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC 1998).

1336 Caribou: A small population of woodland caribou occurs on the northeastern portion of the 

1337 Colville National Forest within the Selkirk Mountain Woodland Caribou Recovery Area. The 

1338 caribou recovery area has been divided into 17 caribou management units, of which 4 

1339 occur on the Colville National Forest.

1340 SURROGATE SPECIES

1341 Selected surrogate species represent specific habitats and risk factors across the planning

1342 area. Habitats of 22 surrogate species occur on the Colville National Forest. The viability of 

1343 surrogate species is enhanced by providing favorable habitats conditions (appropriate mix 

1344 of cover types and structure stages) and reducing risk factors.

1345 MANAGEMENT INDICATOR/FOCAL SPECIES

1346 Management indicator/focal species were selected to monitor the potential effects of 

1347 major forest management activities. These major activities include: grazing, forest 

1348 vegetation restoration (such as thinning and prescribed fire), and post-fire salvage harvest. 

1349 The species in table 9 were selected to represent these management activities. 

1350 Table 9. Management indicator species and management activity

Management indicator/focal species Management activity

MacGillivray’s warbler Grazing, understory effects

Black-backed woodpecker Post-fire salvage harvest

Northern goshawk Forest vegetation management

White-headed woodpecker Forest vegetation management

1351 UNGULATES

1352 Deer: Mule deer and white-tailed deer occur widely across the national forest. 

1353 Elk: Less broadly distributed across the forests are Rocky Mountain elk. 

1354 The larger elk populations occur on the eastern half of the Colville National Forest. 
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1355 Table 10. Terrestrial wildlife species and species group for Colville National Forest 

Species Endangered Threatened Management 

indicator/ focal 

species (MIS)

Surrogate Ungulate

American marten X

Bald eagle X

Bighorn sheep X

Black-backed woodpecker X X

Canada lynx X X

Cassin’s finch X

Columbia spotted frog X

Fox sparrow X

Fringed myotis X

Golden eagle X

Grizzly bear X

Harlequin duck X

Lewis’ woodpecker X

MacGillivray’s warbler X X

Mule deer and white-tailed deer X

Northern bog lemming X

Northern goshawk X X

Pileated woodpecker X

Red-naped sapsucker X

Rocky mountain elk X

Townsend’s big-eared bat X

Water vole X

Woodland caribou X X

White-headed woodpecker X X

Western bluebird X

Wolverine X
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1356 Desired Condition

1357 FW-DC-WL-01. Proper Storage of Human Food, Garbage, and Other Wildlife 

1358 Attractants

1359 All administrative sites, developed recreation sites, and dispersed recreation sites where 

1360 garbage disposal services are provided, are equipped with animal-resistant food and waste 

1361 storage devices so that food, garbage, and other attractants can be made inaccessible to 

1362 wildlife. 

1363 Forest visitors are aware of the need to properly store all wildlife attractants through one-on1364 one contacts with campground hosts and agency employees, signage, and the media.

1365 Compliance with the Forest’s food storage order is increasing.

1366 FW-DC-WL-02. Habitat Conditions for Threatened and Endangered Species 

1367 Habitat conditions (amount, distribution, and connectivity of habitat) contribute to the recovery 

1368 of federally listed threatened and endangered species. 

1369 FW-DC-WL-03. Habitat Components for Canada Lynx 

1370 Forest successional stages within lynx analysis units provide a mosaic of lynx habitat with 

1371 landscape pattern that is consistent with the historic range of variability. (See also FW-DC-VEG1372 04.)

1373 FW-DC-WL-04. Grizzly Bear Recovery Area – Key Habitat Components for Grizzly Bear 

1374 Key grizzly bear habitat components (such as whitebark pine, riparian habitats, berry-producing 

1375 shrubfields, natural meadows, and forest cover) are available within core areas and in quantities 

1376 that contribute toward a recovered bear population. 

1377 FW-DC-WL-05. Grizzly Bear Recovery Area – Core Areas 

1378 The amount of core areas available to grizzly bears within each grizzly bear management unit 

1379 meets the standards in table 14. Core areas are expanded where other forest access priorities /

1380 obligations can also be met. 

1381 FW-DC-WL-06. Woodland Caribou Seasonal Habitat Components 

1382 For the Desired Habitat Conditions for caribou, manage toward the upper 10 percent of the 

1383 Desired Conditions for vegetation in late-successional-closed forest within western hemlock/red 

1384 cedar and spruce/subalpine fir, measured at the caribou management unit scale. Seasonal 

1385 habitat components of well-connected, large blocks of late-successional forest provide essential 

1386 habitat for caribou. 

1387 FW-DC-WL-07. Woodland Caribou Habitat – Forage Availability 

1388 Preferred lichens (Bryoria and Alectoria) are present in sufficient quantities for woodland 

1389 caribou to forage. 

1390 FW-DC-WL-08. Woodland Caribou Habitat – Winter Recreation 

1391 Winter recreation is managed so that woodland caribou are not displaced from suitable habitat 

1392 and the caribou can make full use of existing habitat in the recovery area.
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1393 FW-DC-WL-09. Risk Factors for all Surrogate Species 

1394 Risk factors (e.g., roads, uncharacteristic wildfire, unregulated livestock use, introduced species, 

1395 invasive species, etc.) for all surrogate species are reduced to contribute to the viability of 

1396 surrogate species. 

1397 FW-DC-WL-10. Human Activities in Bald Eagle Nesting Areas 

1398 Occupied bald eagle nesting areas are not disrupted by human activities. 

1399 FW-DC-WL-11. Bald Eagle Habitat in Riparian Management Areas 

1400 Riparian management areas along mainstem rivers that provide bald eagle habitat are 

1401 composed of more than 20 percent late-successional forest. Applicable scale is a stream reach. 

1402 FW-DC-WL-12. Deer and Elk Habitat – Summer and Winter Range Cover and Forage 

1403 Cover and forage for deer and elk summer and winter range are within historic range of 

1404 variability for vegetation (See also FW-DC-VEG-04, table 5). 

1405 FW-DC-WL-13. Deer and Elk Habitat – Human Activities 

1406 Winter ranges for deer and elk provide a high level of habitat effectiveness by having less than 

1407 30 percent of the winter range within a zone of influence of an open road or motorized travel 

1408 route. Summer ranges provide a moderate level of habitat effectiveness by having less than 

1409 50 percent of the summer range within a zone of influence of an open road or motorized trail.

1410 Objectives

1411 FW-OBJ-WL-01. Wildlife Habitats – Proper Storage of Human Food, Garbage and 

1412 Other Wildlife Attractants

1413 Maintain the wildlife-resistant garbage storage devices installed in all developed campgrounds 

1414 on the Colville National Forest, as needed. Within 15 years of plan implementation install at 

1415 least 15 wildlife-resistant food storage lockers at developed campgrounds or heavily used 

1416 dispersed campsites. Priority will be given to sites within or adjacent to the grizzly bear recovery 

1417 area.

1418 FW-OBJ-WL-02. Canada Lynx Habitat Restoration 

1419 Within 15 years of plan implementation, restore an average of 100 acres per year of snowshoe 

1420 hare and/or lynx habitat within the lynx core area on the Kettle Crest. 

1421 FW-OBJ-WL-03. Grizzly Bear Recovery Area – Habitat Restoration 

1422 Within 15 years of plan implementation, maintain or restore grizzly bear seasonal habitats on 

1423 900 acres in the following bear management units [table 11]. 

1424
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1425 Table 11. Grizzly bear seasonal habitats objective 

Bear Management Unit Number of Acres Restored

LeClerc 300

Salmo-Priest 300

Sullivan Hughes 300

1426 FW-OBJ-WL-04. Restoration of Late-Successional Forest Habitat for All Surrogate 

1427 Species

1428 Within 15 years of plan implementation, restore western hemlock/western redcedar vegetation 

1429 types within late-successional forest habitats for surrogate wildlife species on 1,400 acres within 

1430 the following watersheds [table 12]. Generally focus activity in previously treated areas that are 

1431 now early to mid-successional forest to enhance large tree development. 

1432 Table 12. Surrogate species habitat – watersheds for treatment

Watershed Acres

Sullivan Creek 800

LeClerc 600

1433 FW-OBJ-WL-05. White-Headed Woodpecker and Associated Species Habitat –

1434 Ponderosa Pine Forest 

1435 Over the next 15 years, restore or move toward restoration of late and old structure ponderosa 

1436 pine forest habitat on 500 acres per year. Restoration projects are emphasized in the following 

1437 watersheds: Sanpoil, Sherman. 

1438 FW-OBJ-WL-06. Deer and Elk Habitat Restoration 

1439 Within 15 years of plan implementation, restore (i.e., application of prescribed fire, invasive 

1440 plant management, etc.) habitat on 1,000 acres of deer and elk winter range.

1441 Standards

1442 FW-STD-WL-01. Nest Sites 

1443 For forest species listed in table 13, protect all known active nest sites below from human 

1444 disturbance caused by management activities during the following periods to reduce the risk of 

1445 nest abandonment or decline in productivity.

1446 Table 13. Timing standards for protection of land bird species nest sites

Species Species Status Timing

Bald eagle Surrogate – R6 Sensitive Species January 1–August 15

Peregrine falcon Surrogate- R6 Sensitive Species March 1−July 31

Northern goshawk Surrogate March 1–August 15

Golden eagle Surrogate February 15−August 31

1447 FW-STD-WL-02. Canada Lynx – Vegetation Management within Identified Lynx Habitat 

1448 Management projects shall not reduce horizontal cover (snowshoe hare habitat) in late-closed 

1449 structure Subalpine fir/Lodgepole or Spruce/Subalpine fir vegetation types unless: (1) the 
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1450 subalpine fir/lodgepole pine or spruce/ subalpine fir vegetation types exceed Desired 

1451 Conditions (historic range of variability) for late-closed structure, (2) the projects are within 

1452 200 feet of administrative sites, dwellings, out buildings, recreation sites and special use permit 

1453 areas, including infrastructure within permitted ski area boundaries; or (3) for research studies 

1454 or genetic tree test evaluating genetically improved reforestation stock.

1455 FW-STD-WL-03. Canada Lynx – Rate of Change within Identified Lynx Habitat 

1456 Do not change more than 15 percent of lynx habitat within any single lynx habitat unit to an 

1457 unsuitable condition in any 10-year period.

1458 FW-STD-WL-04. Canada Lynx – Snowmobile Trails in Identified Lynx Habitat 

1459 Allow no net increase in groomed or designated over-the-snow routes into lynx habitat at the 

1460 lynx analysis unit scale. Access to non-recreation uses, such as mineral and energy exploration 

1461 and development sites, will be comprised of designated routes or designated over-the-snow 

1462 routes. This does not apply to areas within permitted ski area boundaries, winter logging, trails 

1463 that are rerouted for public safety, or to accessing private in-holdings. 

1464 FW-STD-WL-05. Canada Lynx – Vegetation Management within Identified Lynx Habitat 

1465 When conducting vegetation management of coniferous vegetation, do not reduce the 

1466 suitability of lynx habitat within a lynx analysis unit below 70 percent of the area that is capable 

1467 of providing suitable lynx habitat (subalpine fir associated forest types). 

1468 FW-STD-WL-06. Canada Lynx – Tree Stem Densities in Identified Lynx Habitat 

1469 Retain a minimum of 20 percent in untreated patches and do not reduce tree stem densities to 

1470 less than 500 trees per acre in early structure subalpine fir/lodgepole pine or spruce/subalpine 

1471 fir vegetation types through vegetation management practices, except within 500 feet of 

1472 structures (i.e., administrative sites, dwellings, out buildings), developed recreation sites and 

1473 special use permit areas (including infrastructure within permitted ski area boundaries), and 

1474 along major highways and powerline corridors.

1475 FW-STD-WL-07. Grizzly Bear Recovery Area -Road Densities 

1476 Within the grizzly bear recovery area, Federal actions shall not result in a net reduction of core 

1477 habitat below the levels in the following table. Discrete core areas shall remain in place for a 

1478 minimum of 10 years in order for bears to find and use these areas. Federal actions shall not 

1479 result in a net increase in open or total road densities above the levels in table 14. Total road 

1480 densities do not include physically undrivable roads (e.g., bermed, brushed-in).

1481 Table 14. Grizzly bear habitat standards for the shared BMUs of the Colville and Idaho Panhandle 

1482 National Forests

BMU Maximum Open Roads

>1 mi/sq. mi.

Maximum Total 

Roads

>2 mi/sq. mi

Minimum Percent 

Core Habitat

Salmo-Priest

(99% NFS land)

33% 26% 64%

Sullivan-Hughes

(99% NFS land

24% 19% 61%

LeClerc

(64% NFS land)

37% 58% 27%
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1483 FW-STD-WL-08 Proper Storage of Human Food, Garbage and Other Wildlife 

1484 Attractants

1485 Forest Service contracts, permits, and agreements that include camping on NFS lands shall 

1486 incorporate the requirement to follow the current Food Storage Order for the Colville National 

1487 Forest.

1488 FW-STD-WL-09. Woodland Caribou Habitat – Management Activities 

1489 Management activities within lands identified as capable habitat for woodland caribou enhance 

1490 or facilitate the development of suitable habitat. Management activities within stands identified 

1491 as suitable habitat are avoided, except when a clear benefit of the activity to habitat conditions 

1492 can be demonstrated.

1493 Management activities that cause disturbance shall be avoided in known caribou calving habitat 

1494 from June 1 to July 15.

1495 FW-STD-WL-10. Woodland Caribou and Snowmobiles 

1496 Restrict over-the-snow vehicle use to designated routes within the caribou recovery area.

1497 FW-STD-WL-11. Large Snag Habitat 

1498 Because snags greater than 20 inches diameter at breast height are currently below the desired 

1499 conditions, they shall be retained unless they pose a safety hazard. This standard does not apply 

1500 in developed recreation sites, around recreation residences, in administrative sites, and within 

1501 200 feet of an open road designated for firewood harvest. An additional exception to this 

1502 standard can occur in areas that have been identified through consultation with local biologists 

1503 as candidates for tree faller training sites. 

1504 FW-STD-WL-12. Bighorn Sheep and Disease Transmission

1505 Protect bighorn sheep populations from potential disease transmission: (1) Use of recreational 

1506 pack goats shall not be authorized or allowed within or adjacent to source habitat for bighorn 

1507 sheep in order to reduce the risk of disease spread, and (2) Grazing of domestic sheep shall not 

1508 be authorized within or adjacent to bighorn sheep source habitats.

1509 Guidelines

1510 FW-GDL-WL-01. Cover for Wildlife 

1511 Where the opportunity exists, retain clumps or patches of shrubs and trees to provide hiding 

1512 cover (minimize sight distance) along open roads adjacent to created openings. To the extent 

1513 feasible, maintain the cover value of these vegetative clumps and patches during post-harvest 

1514 site preparation and fuels treatments. 

1515 FW-GDL-WL-02. Proper Storage of Human Food, Garbage and Other Wildlife 

1516 Attractants

1517 Agency employees and the public should be informed about the need to properly store food 

1518 and other wildlife attractants. Once knowledgeable, compliance with the Forest’s food storage 

1519 order should be expected.

1520 FW-GDL-WL-03. Unique Habitats 

1521 Limited habitats, such as cliffs (greater than 25 feet in height below 5,000 feet in elevation), 

1522 caves (including mines), talus, ponds, marshes, wetlands, deciduous forest (including aspen 
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57

1523 stands greater than 1 acre in size), natural meadows and areas of colony nesting species should 

1524 be maintained or protected from activities that result in habitat loss or disturbance.

1525 FW-GDL-WL-04. Federally Listed Species 

1526 Habitat for federally listed wildlife species within recovery areas that occur on National Forest 

1527 System lands should be retained in public ownership.

1528 FW-GDL-WL-05. Canada Lynx – Vegetation 

1529 Vegetation management activities within identified Lynx Habitat should be focused in areas of 

1530 poor snowshoe hare habitat (poorly developed understories that lack horizontal cover between 

1531 3 and 10 feet from the ground) to recruit understories that support dense, horizontal cover. 

1532 FW-GDL-WL-06. Canada Lynx – Alternative Prey within Identified Lynx Habitat 

1533 Habitat for alternate prey species, primarily red squirrel, should be available in each lynx 

1534 analysis unit by providing cone bearing late, closed structure conifer forests with coarse woody 

1535 debris consistent with Desired Conditions for structure FW-DC-VEG-04, and snags and downed 

1536 wood FW-DC-VEG-06. 

1537 FW-GDL-WL-07. Canada Lynx – Recreation and Administrative Facilities within 

1538 Identified Lynx Habitat 

1539 Expansion or new construction of recreation facilities and administrative facilities within lynx 

1540 habitat should be located in or adjacent to existing areas of development, rather than creating 

1541 new developed recreation or administrative sites. Recreation developments and operations 

1542 should be managed so as not to interfere with lynx movement and maintain the effectiveness of 

1543 lynx habitat. 

1544 FW-GDL-WL-08. Canada Lynx – Transportation System within Identified Lynx Habitat 

1545 Road reconstruction that results in increased traffic speed and volume should be avoided. New 

1546 permanent roads should not be located on forested ridge-tops, saddles, close to forest stringers 

1547 or in other areas important for habitat connectivity.

1548 FW-GDL-WL-09. Canada Lynx – Habitat Connectivity within Identified Lynx Habitat 

1549 Large, permanent openings (generally greater than 300 feet wide with less than 10 percent 

1550 overstory canopy) should not be created in prey habitat. When temporary openings (resulting 

1551 from vegetation management treatments) are proposed, adequate forested habitat should be 

1552 retained between these openings and natural openings to contribute to habitat connectivity. 

1553 FW-GDL-WL-10. Canada Lynx – LAU adjustment

1554 Lynx analysis unit boundaries should be adjusted based on scientific literature and coordination 

with the USDI Fish and Wildlife Service.

7 1555

1556 FW-GDL-WL-11. Grizzly Bear Recovery Area – Forest Management Activities 

1557 Management activities (such as timber harvest, road building, blasting, etc.) that may displace 

1558 grizzly bears should be scheduled to occur outside of the critical period of den emergence 

1559 (April 1 to June 15).

 7 As of this draft revised plan, the Canada Lynx Conservation Assessment and Strategy (ILBT 2013) provides guidance 

for Canada Lynx analysis unit management.
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1560 Administrative, motorized vehicle entries on restricted-use roads should be managed to not 

1561 exceed the levels prescribed by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee.

1562 FW-GDL-WL-12 Grizzly Bear Recovery Area – Hiding Cover

1563 Hiding cover for grizzly bears is defined as topography or vegetation capable of screening 

1564 90 percent of a bear at a distance of 200 feet. Within the grizzly bear recovery area, no point in 

1565 a created opening should be farther than 600 feet from forested hiding cover. Blocks of forested 

1566 cover retained within harvest units specifically for grizzly bears should be at least 600 feet 

1567 across.

1568 Hiding cover should be maintained where it exists along open roads. Roadside cover can be 

1569 provided by topography, or by strips / patches of shrubs / trees retained within harvest units.

1570 FW-GDL-WL-13. Mule Deer, White-tailed Deer, and Elk Habitat – Human Activities 

1571 Human activities should be restricted to designated routes during the winter period of 

1572 December 1 to March 31 in winter range. When human activities must occur (i.e., winter 

1573 logging), adequate displacement areas should be provided for deer and elk to maintain the 

1574 effectiveness of the wintering area.

1575 FW-GDL-WL-14 Mule Deer, White-tailed Deer, and Elk Forage 

1576 Production of browse and other forage should be stimulated within deer winter range. 

1577 Minimize tree invasion into non-forested, brush-dominated areas to maintain browse condition. 

1578 Consider treatment when browse species are out of reach or in need of rejuvenation or re1579 introduction.

1580 FW-GDL-WL-15. Fire-dependent Surrogate Wildlife Species 

1581 To provide habitat for fire-dependent surrogate species (e.g., black-backed woodpecker), post1582 fire timber harvest should only be used when the availability of suitable post-fire habitats (refer 

1583 to Vegetative Systems Desired Conditions [table 5] for early structure) are above the desired 

1584 condition measured at the watershed scale.

1585 FW-GDL-WL-16. Bat Habitat Protection 

1586 Human activities should be managed to protect bat hibernacula from disturbance and exposure 

1587 of bats to white-nosed syndrome.

1588 FW-GDL-WL-17. Nesting Habitat for Common Loon 

1589 Human activities should be managed to protect known common brood-rearing areas between 

1590 June 1 and September 1.

1591 FW-GDL-WL-18. Nest Sites 

1592 For forest species listed in table 15, all known active nest sites should be protected from human 

1593 disturbance caused by management activities during the following periods to reduce the risk of 

1594 nest abandonment or decline in productivity.

1595
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1596 Table 15. Timing standards for protection of bird species nest sites

Species Timing

Common loon April 1−June 15

Cooper’s hawk April 1−August 31

Sharp-shinned hawk April 1−August 31

Red-tailed hawk March 1−July 31

Osprey April 1−August 31

Flammulated owl April 1−July15

Great gray owl March 1−June 30

1597 FW-GDL-WL-19. Northern Goshawk Nesting Sites 

1598 Goshawk territories should be made up of the following components:

1599 1. A 30-acre nest site (active within the last five years) where no adverse management 

1600 activities should occur as long as the nest site is active. Dominant trees should be 

1601 greater than 15 inches d.b.h.

1602 2. Post fledging area (420 acres total), including six nest areas, each 30 acres in size (six 

1603 nest sitesthree nests are suitable and three are replacements). 

1604 3. Foraging area surrounding the post fledging area, and 

1605 4. Total home range size = 6,000 acres

1606 All active (within the last 5 years) or replacement nest sites for the northern goshawk should 

1607 provide suitable nesting habitat with greater than 50 percent canopy closure. Foraging area 

1608 habitat can be a combination of late-and mid-seral stages. 
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1609 FORESTWIDE DIRECTION – SOCIAL SYSTEMS

1610 This section contains desired conditions, objectives, standards, and guidelines for social systems 

1611 including; access, lands and special uses, livestock grazing, minerals, public awareness, 

1612 recreation, renewable forest products, and scenery.

1613
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1614 NATIONAL FOREST ACCESS SYSTEM (AS)

1615 All national forest roads, trails, bridges and docks that are managed by the Forest to 

1616 provide access on National Forest System lands are referred to in this document as the 

1617 access system. 

1618 Desired Condition

1619 FW-DC-AS-01. Access System 

1620 The access system of authorized roads, bridges, trails, and docks is safe, affordable, and 

1621 environmentally sound; responds to administrative and public needs to the extent practicable; 

1622 meets obligations to public and private cooperators; and is efficient to manage. 

1623 The system provides public and administrative access where suitable and supports forest 

1624 management objectives. Road and trail rights-of-way to access National Forest System lands 

1625 address public needs and facilitate planned resource activities. All National Forest System roads 

1626 and trails have legal access for crossing non-National Forest System lands.

1627 The system is maintained commensurate with maintenance levels, levels of use, and available 

1628 funding. Roads, trails, and areas that are open to motor vehicle use are designated through the 

1629 motor vehicle use map.

1630 The size of the access system is such that each road and trail can be maintained to its assigned 

1631 maintenance level and each bridge meets structural standards. Maintenance standards are set 

1632 considering access needs, use, environmental impacts, and the ability to fund long-term 

1633 maintenance needs. All commercial users and other authorization holders using National Forest 

1634 System roads share in the costs of maintaining the roads they use.

1635 FW-DC-AS-02. Trail System − Motorized and Non-Motorized

1636 A variety of summer and winter system trails provide a range of difficulty and seclusion levels 

1637 for the various user types; are located in diverse ecological, geological, and scenic settings; and 

1638 minimize user conflicts. Destination and loop opportunities of various lengths are available for a 

1639 variety of uses.

1640 Trails are defined, marked, and easily identified on the ground.

1641 A maintained and environmentally sound trail system is in place, providing for user safety and 

1642 access to locations of interest and the use (e.g., recreation, minerals, vegetation treatment, and 

1643 fire protection) of the Colville National Forest. 

1644 Motorized access and travel occurs on a system of designated National Forest System roads and 

1645 motorized trails.

1646 Trails accessible from populated areas are available for non-motorized opportunities in blocks of 

1647 forest that are free from the sights and sounds of motorized recreation.

1648 The trail system is accessible from local communities, State, county, and local public roads and 

1649 trails.
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1650 FW-DC-AS-03. Connections

1651 Where feasible, Forest Service recreation sites are connected to each other and to adjacent 

1652 communities through pathways, trails, bike lanes, and waterways providing opportunities for 

1653 both motorized and/or non-motorized modes of travel.

1654 FW-DC-AS-04. Wilderness Trails

1655 Wilderness trails provide for administrative and public use. They provide for the enjoyment of 

1656 wilderness in a variety of settings and with varying degrees of challenge and opportunities for 

1657 solitude. Trails that function as the main arterials to distribute use across the trailed portions of 

1658 the wilderness or access high-use destinations generally receive regular maintenance. Side trails 

1659 are typically more primitive and may be maintained less frequently. Loop opportunities of 

1660 various lengths are available. 

1661 FW-DC-AS-05. Developed Recreation Sites

1662 Roads accessing developed recreation sites (such as campgrounds, day use sites, and trailheads) 

1663 are maintained at a level generally accessible by passenger vehicle.

1664 Objectives

1665 FW-OBJ-AS-01. Motorized Mixed Use Roads

1666 Within 15 years of plan implementation, designate 45 miles of motorized mixed-use roads 

1667 across the Forest that would connect with existing motorized mixed use roads identified on the 

1668 motor vehicle use map to create loop-riding opportunities, connect camping areas, or connect 

1669 communities with the Forest.

1670 FW-OBJ-AS-02. Trail Management

1671 Within 15 years of plan implementation, improve drainage, water crossing and trail layout on 

1672 5 percent of the Forest’s trail system designed for mountain bikes, motorized use, and pack 

1673 stock. 

1674 FW-OBJ-AS-03. Trail Maintenance

1675 Annually, maintain at least 20 percent of the Forest’s motorized and non-motorized trail system.

1676 Standards

1677 FW-STD-AS-01. Over-snow Vehicle Use

1678 Cross-country over-snow vehicle use will be discontinued for the season when areas no longer 

1679 allow for continuous over-the-snow travel in order to protect other resources such as soil and 

1680 vegetation.

1681 Guidelines

1682 FW-GDL-AS-01. Winter Use of Roads

1683 In the winter, when and where specified, over-the-snow recreational use (either motorized or 

1684 non-motorized) may be accommodated. Roads may be plowed to accommodate management 

1685 activities such as winter logging or access to winter recreation sites such as Sno-Parks. 
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1686 FW-GDL-AS-02. Wilderness Trail Structures

1687 Wilderness trail structures should be constructed of native materials when possible. The use of 

1688 non-native fasteners is an acceptable practice. 

1689 FW-GDL-AS-03. Over-snow Vehicle Use

1690 Over-snow vehicle use should be discontinued for the season when roads no longer allow for 

1691 continuous over-the-snow travel in order to protect the road base.

1692 FW-GDL-AS-04. Temporary or Limited Access 

1693 Acquire rights-of-way across non-National Forest System lands as needed to meet resource 

1694 management objectives. Rights-of-way are acquired from landowners using easements, term 

1695 easements, limited easements or permits for roads crossing private lands. Temporary or limited 

1696 rights-of-way may be acquired when landowners are unwilling or unable to grant full public 

1697 access, or when permanent access is not in the public interest or necessary to address long1698 term resource management objectives. 

1699 FW-GDL-AS-05. Motorized and Non-motorized Trails

1700 New trails or additions to existing trails should include destinations and loops to provide for a 

1701 variety of opportunities.

1702 New trails should be located to avoid meadows, wetlands, riparian areas, stream bottoms, 

1703 sacred sites, and areas with high concentrations of significant archaeological sites. The number 

1704 of stream crossings should be minimized or mitigated to reduce impacts to aquatic species.

1705 Meadow crossings should be designed or redesigned to maintain or restore hydrologic function.

1706 Trail markings (e.g., signs, blazes) should be designed to complement the character of the 

1707 surrounding lands.

1708 HERITAGE RESOURCES (HR)

1709 Remnants of past and current human activities and events that reflect continuous use by 

1710 Native peoples and the exploration, settlement, and management by Euro-American 

1711 cultures can be found throughout the Forest. Cultural resources are nonrenewable with 

1712 few exceptions. Once the resource has been disturbed, damaged, altered, or removed, 

1713 nothing can recover the information that could have been gained through analysis or 

1714 replace the opportunity for individuals to understand and experience the site. 

1715 All resources on a national forest are managed in accordance with applicable laws, 

1716 regulations, executive orders, and agency directives. Management of heritage resources is 

1717 unique in that management is addressed primarily through law, regulation, executive 

1718 orders and Forest Service Manual and Forest Service Handbook direction with no need for 

1719 additional forest plan direction. These include, but are not limited to the following, and, 

1720 over the life of the plan, there may be changes to these. 

1721 Laws and Executive Orders

1722 Antiquities Act of 1906 – Provides for the protection of historic and prehistoric remains or 

1723 any object of antiquity on Federal lands; establishes sanctions for unauthorized destruction 

1724 or appropriation of antiquities: and authorizes scientific investigation of antiquities on 

1725 Federal lands, subject to permit and regulations. Paleontological resources fall under the 

1726 authority of this Act.
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1727 The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended 2004 – Establishes a program 

1728 for the preservation of prehistoric and historic properties throughout the Nation. It makes 

1729 historic preservation national policy. Section 106 of the Act directs that Federal agencies 

1730 shall take into account the effects of their actions on heritage resources. Section 110 of the 

1731 Act directs Federal agencies to take responsibility for the preservation and management of 

1732 heritage resources that are owned or controlled by the agency.

1733 The Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979 – Establishes various legal penalties 

1734 for the unauthorized removal of antiquities or artifacts from Federal property, and /or the 

1735 damage or destruction of heritage properties on Federal lands.

1736 The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990 – Defines the rights of 

1737 lineal descendants and Indian tribes to Indian skeletal remains and items or artifacts of 

1738 cultural patrimony that may be held by Federal agencies or institutions.

1739 National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and National Forest Management Act of 1976 –

1740 Require Federal agencies to preserve important prehistoric, historic, cultural and natural 

1741 aspects of national heritage.

1742 Executive Order 11593, Protection and Enhancement of the Cultural Environment –

1743 Declares that the Federal Government shall take the lead in preserving, restoring, and 

1744 maintaining the historic and cultural environment of the Nation; directs the Federal 

1745 Government to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of non-federally owned 

1746 sites; directs Federal agencies to locate, inventory and nominate sites to the National 

1747 Register of Historic Places; directs Federal agencies to ensure that cultural resources are 

1748 not inadvertently damaged, destroyed or transferred from Federal ownership before the 

1749 completion of inventories and evaluation of sites worthy of National Register nomination 

1750 Executive Order 13287, Preserve America – Directs Federal agencies to build partnerships 

1751 with local governments, Indian tribes, and the private sector to preserve heritage 

1752 properties, and promote heritage tourism. Agencies are to improve planning and 

1753 accountability for heritage properties, assess the current status of heritage properties, 

1754 track progress in managing heritage properties, and improve the stewardship of heritage 

1755 properties.

1756 Desired Condition

1757 FW-DC-HR-01. Consistency with Law, Regulation, Executive Orders and Directives

1758 Heritage resources on the national forest, including known Native American sacred sites and 

1759 traditional cultural properties, are preserved, protected, and/or restored per applicable law, 

1760 regulation, executive order, and directives. As appropriate, eligible and historically significant 

1761 heritage properties are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Forest’s priority 

1762 heritage assets are protected and preserved per applicable law, regulation, executive order, and 

1763 directives. Opportunities to connect people with the heritage of the land are provided.

1764 Forest facilities that are eligible for the National Register of Historic Places are available for 

1765 continued use, for Forest administration, public recreation and interpretation, and tribal events, 

1766 as appropriate. Important archaeological artifacts are protected per applicable law, regulation, 

1767 executive order, and directives.
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1768 AMERICAN INDIAN RIGHTS AND INTEREST (AI)

1769 American Indian tribes are sovereign nations. The United States has a fiduciary relationship 

1770 with tribal governments as set forth in the U.S. Constitution, statutes, executive orders, 

1771 court decisions, and agreements. This relationship is also known as the Federal Trust Duty 

1772 to American Indians. Therefore, the Forest Service has certain responsibilities to American 

1773 Indian tribes to fulfill the government’s Federal Trust Duty. In meeting these 

1774 responsibilities, the Forest Service must administer their programs in a manner that does 

1775 not interfere with tribal rights and resources. 

1776 Direction includes, but is not limited to the following, and, over the life of the plan, there 

1777 may be changes to these. 

1778 Laws and Executive Orders

1779 The American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978, as amended – Legislation passed by 

1780 Congress intended to protect and preserve the traditional religious rights of American 

1781 Indians, Eskimos, Aleuts, and Native Hawaiians. The Act requires Federal agencies to 

1782 consider the effects of their programs on places and practices of religious importance to 

1783 American Indians, Eskimos, and Native Hawaiians. 

1784 The Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990 – Defines the rights of 

1785 lineal descendants and Indian tribes to Indian skeletal remains and items or artifacts of 

1786 cultural patrimony that may be held by Federal agencies or institutions.

1787 Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 (2008 Farm Bill) (Public Law 110-246, 122 

1788 Stat.1651) Title VIII – Forestry, Subtitle B – Cultural and Heritage Cooperation Authority. 

1789 Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to provide forest products to Indian tribes for 

1790 traditional and cultural purposes; to protect the confidentiality of certain information, 

1791 including information that is culturally sensitive to Indian tribes; to utilize National Forest 

1792 System land for the reburial of human remains and cultural items, including human remains 

1793 and cultural items repatriated under the Native American Graves Protection and 

1794 Repatriation Act; prevent the unauthorized disclosure of information regarding human 

1795 remains or cultural items reburied on National Forest System land; to ensure access to 

1796 National Forest System land, to the maximum extent practicable, by Indians and Indian 

1797 tribes for traditional and cultural purposes; to increase the availability of Forest Service 

1798 programs and resources to Indian tribes in support of the policy of the United States to 

1799 promote tribal sovereignty and self-determination; and to strengthen support for the policy 

1800 of the United States of protecting and preserving the traditional, cultural, and ceremonial 

1801 rites and practices of Indian tribes, in accordance with the American Indian Religious 

1802 Freedom Act (42 U.S.C. 1996). 

1803 Tribal Forest Protection Act of 2004 (Public Law 108-278) – Authorizes the Secretary of 

1804 Agriculture and the Secretary of the Interior to enter into an agreement or contract with 

1805 Indian tribes meeting certain criteria to carry out projects to protect Indian forest land. 

1806 Executive Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments –

1807 Directs Federal agencies to establish regular and meaningful consultation and collaboration 

1808 with tribal governments prior to taking actions that would affect tribes. 

1809 Executive Order 13007, Indian Sacred Sites – Directs Federal agencies to protect sacred 

1810 sites identified by federally recognized tribes and accommodate access to and ceremonial 

1811 use of Indian sacred sites where feasible, avoid adversely affecting the physical integrity of 
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1812 such sacred sites and requires consultation with tribes to learn tribal concerns for sacred 

1813 sites on public lands.

1814 Desired Condition

1815 FW-DC-AI-01. Traditional and Cultural Use

1816 Traditional and cultural use information, as provided by federally recognized tribes, is treated 

1817 with respect and integrated into natural resource management planning efforts with 

1818 appropriate sensitivity to the tribe’s views regarding information sharing. American Indian 

1819 values are fully considered in planning proposed actions on the Forest. The Forest maintains 

1820 sustainable products, uses, values, and services that contribute to the American Indians’ way of 

1821 life and cultural integrity. Access to traditional resources and sacred places is considered in all 

1822 planning efforts.

1823 Standards

1824 FW-STD-AI-01. Tribal Consultation

1825 Consult with tribes when management activities may impact treaty rights and/or cultural sites 

1826 and cultural use, according to individual tribal communication plans, consultation protocols, or 

1827 policies.

1828 LANDS AND SPECIAL USES (LSU)

1829 The Forest “Lands” program includes activities such as Landownership Adjustment, 

1830 Boundary and Title Management (including land exchanges and acquisitions, granting or 

1831 accepting of easements), and other activities that are primarily real estate-type actions. The 

1832 goals of this program include: (1) consolidating landownership patterns to meet the 

1833 objectives of forest land and resource management plans and to improve land 

1834 management efficiencies; (2) securing and protecting the rights, title, land, and resources 

1835 of public land from unauthorized use and occupancy; (3) providing legally defensible 

1836 boundaries and accurate, complete landownership records of National Forest System lands. 

1837 These program activities will continue and do not change across the action alternatives.

1838 Land acquisition and conveyance contribute to:

1839 a. The maintenance, restoration, and enhancement of plant, wildlife, and riparian aquatic 

1840 and riparian-dependent resources and habitat including aspects of connectivity, 

1841 foraging and reproduction for threatened and endangered and species of conservation 

1842 concern (SOCC). 

1843 b. The protection of significant historical or cultural resources

1844 c. The enhancement of recreation opportunities and protection of scenic values

1845 d. The protection of congressionally designated areas such as wilderness

1846 e. Obtaining access to public land

1847 f. A reduction in unauthorized use and occupancy 

1848 g. A reduction in isolated properties

1849 h. Increased management efficiencies
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1850 All uses of National Forest System lands, improvements, and resources, except those 

1851 provided for in the regulations governing the disposal of timber, minerals, and the grazing 

1852 of livestock, are designated ‘special uses.’ The Forest administers a variety of uses under 

1853 special use permits, leases, or easements. Management direction applies to the area 

1854 authorized by the special use permit, lease, or easement. 

1855 Desired Condition

1856 FW-DC-LSU-01. Boundaries, Acquisition, Conveyance, and Exchange

1857 The Forest has a consolidated land ownership pattern that contributes to ecosystem resilience, 

1858 allows reasonable public and/or Forest Service administrative access where suitable, and 

1859 improves land management efficiencies. There is a downward trend in the number of non1860 Federal inholdings that occur within the proclaimed Forest boundaries. Congressionally 

1861 designated areas lack private inholdings. Boundaries are surveyed, posted, and maintained for 

1862 visibility in support of all resource management activities. Identifiable boundaries and accurate 

1863 landownership records protect National Forest System lands and reduce unauthorized use and 

1864 occupancy. 

1865 FW-DC-LSU-02. Authorization

1866 All occupancy and use of National Forest System lands is properly authorized. Facilities and 

1867 improvements that are not owned, managed or maintained by the Forest Service are either 

1868 removed or authorized through the appropriate special use authorization when they meet 

1869 forest plan direction and are feasible within resource constraints (examples include roads, utility 

1870 lines, or communication sites). 

1871 FW-DC-LSU-03. Utility Corridors and Communication Sites

1872 Utility corridors and communication sites provide for the movement and distribution of 

1873 electricity, petroleum products, water, other lineal special uses, and communication signals 

1874 across National Forest System lands. 

1875 Existing utility corridors are used to maximum capacity, where feasible, before additional 

1876 corridors are considered. New high-voltage electricity corridors would be located in a way that 

1877 minimizes effects to forest resources and values. Forest corridor designations are consistent 

1878 with such designations on adjacent federal lands. 

1879 The telecommunications system adequately supports Forest resource management. Existing 

1880 communication sites are used, where possible, to maximum capacity before designating new 

1881 sites. Communication sites are designated for private, administrative, and commercial use. 

1882 Commercial uses are provided, within the ecosystem’s capability, where essential to meet a 

1883 demonstrated public need.

1884 Utility corridors and communication sites are permanently altered areas, used for operating and 

1885 maintaining the infrastructure associated with these corridors and sites. Vegetative conditions 

1886 within corridors or communication site areas ensure operation of permitted uses and blend 

1887 with the surrounding desired vegetative pattern where possible. Vegetation around utility 

1888 corridors and communication sites would be managed to improve safety and resilience to 

1889 wildland fire, provide screening, and contribute to a natural appearing landscape character 

1890 setting appropriate to the surrounding scenic integrity objective.
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1891 FW-DC-LSU-04. Water Collection and Delivery Systems

1892 Existing water diversions or developments do not measurably alter natural processes of aquatic 

1893 ecosystems. Effects to other resources are minimized by incorporation of best management

1894 practices and other resource protection measures. New water developments, diversions, or 

1895 allowance for occupancy to divert water from National Forest System lands generally do not 

1896 occur in wetlands and their water source areas, and are discouraged in habitats where 

1897 endangered, threatened, or species of conservation concern reside. 

1898 FW-DC-LSU-05. Recreation and Special Uses

1899 Approved recreation special use authorizations support activities that enhance or expand the 

1900 variety of recreational opportunities available on the Forest, are compliant with the Forest’s 

1901 recreation strategy, and are dependent on the resources and settings found within the Forest’s 

1902 boundary. Lands where special use activities have occurred show little evidence of impacts. 

1903 Standards

1904 FW-STD-LSU-01. Commercial Services in Wilderness

1905 When authorizing services that have been determined necessary for wilderness purposes 

1906 ensure that:

1907 • The service provides appropriate wilderness activities such as stock packing, hunting, 

1908 backpacking, or support of other authorized activities such as research. 

1909 • The service can be authorized in locations and times that would not constrain the non1910 outfitted public.

1911 • Activities are consistent with the desired condition and guidelines of the Wilderness 

1912 Resource Spectrum zone where the service will be provided. Services should be 

1913 authorized only where the provider can meet the requirements to operate in this 

1914 Wilderness Resource Spectrum zone.

1915 • Services adhere to established party size limitations.

1916 Guidelines

1917 FW-GDL-LSU-01. Clustering Facilities

1918 Facilities that support urban infrastructure, such as utility and energy transmission corridors 

1919 and facilities, or communication sites, should be clustered on existing sites or designated 

1920 corridors to minimize the number of acres encumbered by rights-of-way, leases, permits, or 

1921 easements. 

1922 FW-GDL-LSU-02. New Facilities

1923 When new facilities or upgrades to existing facilities are proposed at communication sites, 

1924 Leaseholders would meet the intent of the site’s surrounding Scenic Integrity Objective by using 

1925 Forest Service approved site designs, building materials, and colors that meet that objective.

1926 FW-GDL-LSU-03. Non-commercial Group Use, Recreation Events, and Outfitter and 

1927 Guide Permits

1928 Use should be authorized on lands where vegetation or species habitat conditions are stable or 

1929 resilient to potential impacts of the authorized use.
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1930 Authorizing use in locations or times that would adversely displace or disrupt other recreating 

1931 public should be avoided. 

1932 Commercial outfitters and guides should not be authorized to use developed campgrounds so 

1933 those sites remain available to non-commercial forest visitors.

1934 Commercial outfitters and guides may be authorized use of range developments when there is 

1935 no conflict with allotment management.

1936 Large group and recreation event special uses should not be authorized within wilderness, 

1937 recommended wilderness, eligible “wild” river corridors, or research natural areas to protect 

1938 the unique character of these areas.

1939 Constructed features should be maintained to standard or removed when no longer needed.

1940 LIVESTOCK GRAZING (LG)

1941 – Commercial and Recreational

1942 Permitted livestock grazing on National Forest System lands is managed through a permit 

1943 system that identifies allotments and specific conditions for use of the allotments. The 

1944 Forest Plan provides overall guidance for grazing, with allotment management plans 

1945 providing specific guidance for each allotment. Recreational grazing is an activity associated 

1946 with the recreational use of pack and saddle stock such as horses, mules, llamas, and goats. 

1947 Plan components apply to both commercial and recreational grazing unless specifically 

1948 stated otherwise.

1949 Desired Condition

1950 FW-DC-LG-01. Plant Community Structure and Diversity

1951 The desired structure and diversity of native herbaceous plant communities (including highly 

1952 palatable forage species) are maintained or enhanced through proper livestock management 

1953 principles. Rangelands consisting of native plant communities such as open conifer forests, low1954 elevation grasslands, shrub-steppe plant communities, and meadows have few to no invasive 

1955 plant species, have stable or improving ecological conditions, and are resilient to disturbance 

1956 events. Rangelands with significant non-native plant components (seeded meadows or 

1957 historically overgrazed sites) have stable or improving soil stability. 

1958 FW-DC-LG-02. Economic and Social Contributions

1959 Rangelands and forestlands provide forage for use by both livestock and wildlife. Grazing 

1960 continues to be a viable use of vegetation on the Forest. Availability of lands identified as suited 

1961 for this use contributes to providing animal products, economic diversity, open space, and 

1962 promotes cultural values and a traditional local life style. Allotments are generally grazed on an 

1963 annual basis. 

1964 Consistent with sustaining other resource desired conditions, a viable level of forage is available 

1965 for use under a grazing permit system where use generally occurs on an annual basis generally 

1966 between June and October. Riparian and upland areas within allotments reflect ecological 

1967 conditions supporting the desired conditions, including those described in the Wildlife, Aquatic 

1968 and Riparian, Soil, and Vegetation Desired Conditions. 
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1969 FW-DC-LG-03. Deer and Elk Forage on Grazing Allotments

1970 Adequate browse and forage occurs on deer and elk summer and winter ranges within domestic 

1971 grazing allotments during the critical winter period of December 15 to April 1. 

1972 Objectives

1973 FW-OBJ-LG-01. Range Improvement Projects

1974 Within 15 years of plan implementation, recondition or reconstruct an average of 1 to 4 percent 

1975 of the existing range infrastructure on National Forest System lands annually. Such range 

1976 infrastructure would include water developments, livestock handling facilities and fences.

1977 Within 5 years of a decision being made to implement an Allotment Management Plan, 

1978 relocate, when necessary, 75 percent of range infrastructure (ex. water developments, fences, 

1979 loading chutes, holding structures) that has become non-functional or in need of replacement 

1980 that have been identified (as problem areas) in an Allotment Management Plan or during 

1981 monitoring.

1982 Standards

1983 FW-STD-LG-01. Stock Driveways 

1984 Do not authorize stock driveways along nationally designated (Recreation and Scenic) trails.

1985 Guidelines

1986 FW-GDL-LG-01. Deer and Elk Summer and Winter Range 

1987 Livestock should be managed within range allotments so that adequate forage is available for 

1988 deer and elk on summer and winter ranges.

1989 FW-GDL-LG-02. Lynx Habitat in Riparian Areas in Grazing Allotments

1990 Livestock grazing within riparian areas in lynx habitat should be managed to maintain conditions 

1991 that support snowshoe hares. 

1992 FW-GDL-LG-03. Permitted and Recreational Grazing in Congressionally Designated 

1993 Wilderness

1994 Repeated stock use by a single cross-country route should be discouraged in order to prevent 

1995 trail development in pristine Wilderness Resource Spectrum zones. Stock should be managed to 

1996 discourage congregating on trails, destination areas, cultural sites, and fragile plant 

1997 communities.

1998 MINERALS (MIN)

1999 These plan components cover mineral and geological activities that take place within 

2000 National Forest System lands. The Forest is mainly involved in the surface resource 

2001 management and protection aspects of locatable mineral exploration and development. 

2002 Due to the structure of mineral laws and regulations, the Forest Service cooperates with 

2003 the U.S. Department of Interior in administering lawful exploration and development of 

2004 leasable minerals on National Forest System lands. The Forest manages saleable mineral 

2005 activities, which includes the sale or free use of mineral materials such as sand, gravel, 
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2006 stone, and common materials. The Forest also manages a number of abandoned mine sites 

2007 resulting from historical mining activities.

2008 Desired Condition

2009 FW-DC-MIN-01. Mineral Materials Availability

2010 Saleable mineral materials are available based upon agency needs, public interest, material 

2011 availability, resource protection and capability. 

2012 FW-DC-MIN-02. Reclamation and Extraction

2013 Operations include interim and post-operation reclamation measures to ensure the long-term 

2014 function and stability of resources including, but not limited to, soil; vegetation; water quality; 

2015 aquatic, riparian and upland habitats; and scenic integrity objectives. 

2016 FW-DC-MIN-03. Abandoned Mine Sites

2017 Abandoned mine sites pose no major environmental or public safety risk.

2018 PUBLIC AWARENESS (PA)

2019 This guidance covers the information, education, collaboration, and interpretation activities 

2020 the Forest engages in. Specific methods and materials used to accomplish the desired 

2021 condition are under the discretion of the Forest and are guided by various rules, 

2022 regulations, and policies.

2023 Desired Condition

2024 FW-PA-DC-01. Information, Education, and Participation

2025 A broad range of people in rural, urban, and underserved populations understand the 

2026 complexities of managing natural resources for the full range of benefits associated with the 

2027 multiple use mission of the Forest Service. A multi-faceted outreach strategy aims to help the 

2028 public understand: 

2029 a) the natural and cultural history of the national forest, 

2030 b) important themes of ecological processes, including fish, plant, and wildlife species 

2031 habitat needs and the importance of disturbance processes, 

2032 c) the human benefits of the National Forest System, including recreational and 

2033 commodity values, 

2034 d) forest regulations and resource protection practices, 

2035 e) safety practices, 

2036 f) potential impacts of human activity on resources, and how to participate effectively 

2037 in national forest decision-making activities. 

2038 Youth are introduced to the natural world and resource management careers. Outstanding 

2039 features of the Forest, such as special interest areas, national trails, and scenic byways are 

2040 interpreted for the public where appropriate. Opportunities for viewing wildlife and plants are 

2041 present and the public is aware of the opportunities. 
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2042 RECREATION (REC)

2043 This guidance applies to recreational settings and natural resource-based recreational 

2044 activities offered on the Forest, from developed opportunities to those that are primitive. 

2045 Desired Condition

2046 FW-DC-REC-01. Recreation Settings and Experiences

2047 The Forest provides a spectrum of high quality, nature-based outdoor recreational settings and 

2048 opportunities varying from primitive to urban and dispersed to developed where visitors can 

2049 experience the biological, geological, scenic, and cultural resources of the Forest, with an 

2050 emphasis on the natural-appearing character of the forest. 

2051 Dispersed recreation opportunities are available (e.g., camping, backcountry skiing, boating, 

2052 mushroom and berry picking, hunting, and fishing) and dispersed recreation sites (e.g., 

2053 campsites, vistas, parking areas) occur in a variety of recreation opportunity spectrum classes 

2054 throughout the forest. 

2055 Facilities for dispersed recreation activities are appropriate for the recreation opportunity 

2056 spectrum class and scenic integrity objective of the location and are designed to the minimum 

2057 necessary to protect natural and cultural resources.

2058 Access, parking, regulations, orientation, and safety information are in place to provide a safe 

2059 and enjoyable dispersed recreation experience. 

2060 Inventoried roadless areas (IRAs) maintain their overall roadless character.

2061 Recreation activities occur within the ability of the land to support them and with minimal user 

2062 conflicts.

2063 Recreation enhances the quality of life for local residents (e.g., social interaction, physical 

2064 activity, connection with nature), provides tourist destinations, and contributes monetarily to 

2065 local economies.

2066 Recreation opportunities provide for a variety of skill levels, needs, and desires in partnership 

2067 with recreation permit holders, private entities, volunteer groups, community groups, and 

2068 State, Federal, and tribal governments.

2069 Visitors can easily access information about recreation activities and safe and proper use of the 

2070 Colville National Forest.

2071 Recreation use does not negatively affect wildlife habitat and populations. Negative interactions 

2072 between people and wildlife are minimized.

2073 The Colville National Forest is free from vandalism and refuse.

2074 “Leave No Trace” principles are practiced.

2075 FW-DC-REC-02. Site Design

2076 Site design and level of facility investment is flexible to account for changes in accessibility 

2077 standards, recreation equipment design, and changing resource conditions. 
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2078 Guidelines

2079 FW-GDL-REC-01. Recreation Opportunities

2080 Recreation-related project-level decisions and implementation activities should be consistent 

2081 with mapped classes and setting descriptions in the recreation opportunity spectrum and meet 

2082 appropriate screening and scenic integrity objectives.

2083 Food and other items that attract wildlife should be managed to prevent reliance on humans 

2084 and to reduce human-wildlife conflicts.

2085 Constructed features should be maintained to standard or removed when no longer needed.

2086 FW-GDL-REC-02. Dispersed Recreation

2087 In dispersed areas, the priority for facilities or minor developments should be access and 

2088 protection of the environment, rather than the comfort or convenience of the visitors.

2089 Dispersed campsites should not be designated in areas with sensitive soils or within 50 feet of 

2090 streams, wetlands, or riparian areas to prevent vegetation and bank damage, soil compaction, 

2091 additional sediment, or soil and water contamination.

2092 FW-GDL-REC-03. Site Design

2093 The Rocky Mountain Province architectural style should be incorporated in the design of 

2094 recreation facilities to remain consistent with the Forest’s existing structures and the direction 

2095 contained in the Built Environment Image Guide.

2096 RENEWABLE FOREST PRODUCTS (RFP)

2097 Forest products are products collected from the national forest for commercial, personal, 

2098 Native American tribal, educational, and/or scientific purposes. This section refers to two 

2099 categories of forest products; those referred to as “special forest products” as defined by 

2100 FSH 2409.18-80, 2008; and those considered merchantable wood products. 

2101 Examples of special forest products can include but are not limited to bark, berries, boughs, 

2102 bulbs, burls, Christmas trees, cones, ferns, firewood, forbs, mushrooms, grasses, mosses, 

2103 nuts, pine straw, roots, sedges, seeds, transplants, tree sap, wildflowers, fence material, 

2104 posts and poles, shingle and shake bolts, and rails. 

2105 Examples of merchantable timber products can include, but are not limited to sawtimber, 

2106 pulpwood, non-sawlog material removed in log form, biomass and other wood fiber 

2107 products.

2108 Desired Condition

2109 FW-DC-RFP-01. Commercial Products

2110 Provide a sustainable level of timber products for current and future generations. Production of 

2111 timber from National Forest System lands contributes to an economically viable forest products 

2112 industry.
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2113 FW-DC-RFP-02. Products Available

2114 A variety of renewable forest products of social, spiritual and economic value are reasonably 

2115 available to the public. Special forest products and merchantable timber products are 

2116 ecosystem services that contribute to economic sustainability, social desires, or cultural needs. 

2117 Objective

2118 FW-OBJ-RFP-01. Planned Sale Quantity

2119 As a result of vegetation treatments implemented over 6,000 to 12,000 acres, estimated 

2120 volume of merchantable forest products, measured at a Forest scale, to be average of 62 million 

2121 board feet per year over the next 15 years. 

2122 SCENERY (SCE)

2123 Scenery is managed through the Scenery Management System. The desired conditions for 

2124 scenery are presented in the plan components below, the valued landscape character 

2125 descriptions, and on the Scenic Integrity Objective map (see appendix E). 

2126 The valued landscape character descriptions do not replace other desired conditions, such 

2127 as vegetation. Rather, the vegetation desired conditions are a key component of the valued 

2128 landscape character. 

2129 Scenic Integrity Objective zones overlay the management areas. The direction for scenery 

2130 management applies regardless of the management area boundary. Applicability of plan 

2131 direction is guided by the principle that where there is an overlap of scenery management 

2132 direction with other plan components, the most restrictive plan direction applies 

2133 depending on site-specific conditions and the activity or use. 

2134 Desired Condition

2135 FW-DC-SCE-01. Maintain and Enhance Scenery

2136 The scenery of the Forest enhances the experience of visitors and contributes to the quality of 

2137 life of communities whose backdrop is National Forest System lands. The valued landscape 

2138 character meets the established scenic integrity objectives. 

2139 Opportunities exist to view high-quality scenery that represents the natural landscape character 

2140 of the region and / or a landscape with unusual features. Views from key viewing locations 

2141 (such as vista points, scenic pullouts, and interpretive sites) are not blocked by vegetation and 

2142 are not affected by new structures and utilities. Vegetation management contributes to 

2143 seasonal color and texture, age classes, and a variety of plant communities and maintains long2144 term vigor and health of the vegetation. Enhancement opportunities exist to increase positive 

2145 scenic attributes where few currently exist such as highlighting large tree boles or opening 

2146 views to geologic features and distant viewpoints along viewsheds.

2147 Guideline

2148 FW-GDL-SCE-01. Scenic Integrity Levels

2149 Scenic integrity may be lowered for a number of years by forest restoration activities or 

2150 disturbed site rehabilitation actions (such as obliteration of roads and other developments) in 

2151 order to return the landscape to its target scenic integrity objective (appendix E). Short-term 
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2152 deviations (3 to 6 years) to the scenic integrity objectives for the management areas should be 

2153 limited to the immediate surroundings of the stand, recreation attraction, or feature of concern. 

2154 Rehabilitation actions may be taken when scenic integrity is compromised by atypical 

2155 disturbances, such as uncharacteristic wildfires, insect or disease epidemics or infestations that 

2156 are out of scale or floods. Enhancement actions may be taken to increase positive scenic 

2157 attributes in the viewshed such as exposing large tree boles or geologic features for viewing.

2158 FW-GDL-SCE-02. Rustic Architectural Style

2159 Rustic architecture of the Rocky Mountain Province should be used when building new facilities 

2160 at recreation sites, administrative compounds, and areas with a high or moderate scenic 

2161 integrity objective. Developments should be consistent with the history and landscape 

2162 character of the site.
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2163 Chapter 3

2164 MANAGEMENT AREA DIRECTION

2165 This section contains descriptions and desired conditions for all management areas and special 

2166 areas. 

2167 Colville National Forest management areas: 

2168 Administrative and Recreation Sites

2169 Backcountry

2170 Backcountry Motorized

2171 Focused Restoration

2172 General Restoration

2173 Nationally Designated Trails

2174 Research Natural Areas

2175 Riparian

2176 Scenic Byways

2177 Special Interest Area

2178 Wild and Scenic Rivers (eligible)

2179 Wilderness – Congressionally Designated

2180 Wilderness – Recommended

2181 MANAGEMENT AREA DESCRIPTIONS AND DESIRED CONDITIONS

2182 Management area desired conditions are specific to each management area.

2183 Management areas are broadly described areas where general management intent is 

2184 similar. The purpose of management areas is to provide consistent guidance for similar 

2185 portions of National Forest System lands when implementing or continuing management 

2186 activities. Forestwide plan components apply within management areas.

2187 Some management areas, such as riparian management areas, naturally overlap with other 

2188 management areas. Combinations of activities or uses are dependent on site-specific 

2189 conditions, making it unreasonable to include all combinations and the applicable plan 

2190 direction within the forest plan. Therefore, applicability of plan direction is guided by the 

2191 principle that, where management areas overlap, the most restrictive plan direction applies 

2192 depending on site-specific conditions and the activity or use. 

2193 SPECIAL AREAS

2194 Special Areas are management areas that are identified or designated because of unique or 

2195 special characteristics. Formally designated by statute or through a separate administrative 

2196 action, each area is recognized individually as a separate management area. Each Special 
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2197 Area may have specific management guidance (in addition to that listed in this plan) from 

2198 underlying statute or other designation document, or in Forest Service directives.

2199 The tables below list formally designated special areas, eligible or proposed areas for 

2200 formal designation, or administratively designated or proposed areas for administrative 

2201 designation. 

2202 This section contains plan components in addition to the previously described plan 

2203 components, applicable to distinct Special Areas. 

2204 In the event that a plan component in this section and the forestwide component in 

2205 another section conflict, the more restrictive plan component prevails.

2206 Table 16. Colville National Forest special areas 

Special Area Type Special Area Administrative Location 

(Ranger District)

Statutorily Designated Areas

National Scenic Trails Pacific Northwest National 

Scenic Trail

Forestwide

Wilderness Salmo-Priest Sullivan Lake

Administratively Designated Areas

Recommended Wilderness Abercrombie-Hooknose Sullivan Lake/Three Rivers

Salmo-Priest Adjacent Sullivan Lake

Bald Snow Three Rivers

Eligible Wild and Scenic Rivers Kettle Three Rivers

South Fork Salmo Sullivan Lake

Research Natural Areas Bunchgrass Meadows Sullivan Lake

Fire Mountain Republic

Hall Ponds Republic

Halliday Fen Sullivan Lake

Maitlen Creek Sullivan Lake

Round Top Mountain Sullivan Lake

Salmo Sullivan Lake

Scenic Byways – National Forest Sherman Pass Scenic Byway Republic/Three Rivers

North Pend Oreille Scenic 

Byway*

Sullivan Lake

All American Road International Selkirk Loop Sullivan Lake

National Recreation Trails Kettle Crest Republic/Three Rivers

Pass Creek-Grassy Top Sullivan Lake

Shedroof Divide Sullivan Lake

Lakeshore (aka, Sullivan Lake) Sullivan Lake

Responsible Official Designated Areas

Special Interest Areas Kettle Crest Republic/Three Rivers
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2207 ADMINISTRATIVE AND RECREATION SITES (ARS)

2208 This management direction applies to those sites listed as administrative or developed 

2209 recreation sites in the Forest corporate database (INFRA).

2210 Administrative sites listed in INFRA can include, but are not limited to, district offices / 

2211 compounds, remote work centers, warehouse sites, seed orchards and administrative 

2212 residence sites. Developed recreation sites listed in INFRA can include, but are not limited 

2213 to, campgrounds, picnic areas, trailheads, Sno-Parks, alpine ski areas, recreation residence 

2214 tracts, interpretive sites, and boating sites. Special use permit areas can include water 

2215 improvements and other utilities.

2216 Both administrative and developed recreation site management area boundaries are 

2217 defined by the footprint of the site plus a 300-foot area extending beyond the footprint. 

2218 This accommodates management activities necessary for the safe use and occupancy of the 

2219 site. When a special use authorization defines the site, the special use permit boundary 

2220 determines the boundary of the management area.

2221 Note that while all forestwide plan components apply to these areas, certain plan 

2222 components such as Vegetation, Water Resources, Riparian Management Areas, Wildlife, 

2223 and Soils are secondary to human safety while using administrative or developed 

2224 recreation sites. 

2225 These management areas are generally small in scale and occur as a place or feature on the 

2226 landscape. Exceptions may be areas such as mountain resorts and recreation residence 

2227 tracts which can cover substantial acreage in comparison to other developed recreation 

2228 sites. 

2229 Desired Condition

2230 MA-DC-ARS-01. Resource Conditions

2231 Administrative and recreation sites are places where structures and human-caused vegetation 

2232 changes may be seen but they do not dominate the view or attract attention (low to moderate 

2233 scenic integrity). Ecological conditions (including wildlife, aquatic, soil, and vegetation) and 

2234 landscape appearances can be outside of their natural range. Human activities in the areas 

2235 visible for administrative and recreation sites (foreground to middle ground, 300 feet to 4 miles) 

2236 should not attract attention or stand out, and the landscapes should appear natural (moderate 

2237 to high scenic integrity). Vegetation can be manipulated to accommodate occupancy and use 

2238 and to protect or enhance recreational opportunities.

2239 Forest vegetation in administrative and recreation sites is healthy (species, size, and age) and 

2240 complements administrative and recreational activities, scenery, and human safety.

2241 MA-DC-ARS-02. Setting and Activities

2242 The setting is often, but not always, roaded to facilitate administrative and/or public use of the 

2243 area. Administrative and recreation sites are designed and managed to meet the Roaded 

2244 Natural recreation opportunity spectrum classification and the assigned scenic integrity 

2245 objective for the area in which they are located. 

2246 Recreation sites provide opportunities for people to camp, obtain information, access trails and 

2247 water bodies, and participate in day-use activities (e.g., picnic areas, fishing piers, boat 

2248 launches, scenic overlooks, wildlife viewing sites, interpretive/heritage sites).
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2249 Administrative sites provide the facilities necessary to carry out the mission of the Forest 

2250 Service and can include offices, communication sites, storage areas, housing, stock corrals, 

2251 pastures, and weather stations.

2252 MA-DC-ARS-03. Developments and Improvements

2253 Facilities for administrative and recreation sites are maintained, accessible, provide for user 

2254 safety, comfort, and convenience, and complement the forest’s natural character. Major site 

2255 modifications and facility installations may be present. Facilities range from primitive to highly 

2256 developed, with an emphasis on blending the facilities with the landscape.

2257 Trails are well marked and may include features such as loop systems or interpretive 

2258 information.

2259 MA-DC-ARS-04. Travelways, Roads

2260 A wide spectrum of travelway types are present, ranging from maintenance level 1 through 5 

2261 roads (primitive roads to highways) to trails and waterways. Roads are gated, closed by 

2262 barricade, or seasonally restricted for reasons including resource protection, recreation 

2263 management, or use and occupancy of the site. The density of National Forest System roads is 

2264 not limited on administrative or recreation sites. 

2265 MA-DC-ARS-05. Winter Recreation Resorts

2266 Special use authorizations allow the private sector to develop, maintain, and operate highly 

2267 developed winter recreation facilities where appropriate. Ski areas are able to provide parking, 

2268 adequate room for skiers on the slopes, and facilities offering restrooms, warmth, and food.

2269 Other outdoor recreation activities permitted by law and compatible in this national forest 

2270 setting may be authorized to increase the recreational opportunities provided on the forest and 

2271 contribute monetarily to local economies.

2272 Ski areas generally have a mix of native vegetation and man-made grassy openings intermixed 

2273 with forested or partially forested areas and rocky outcroppings. Forested areas may act as 

2274 cover for wildlife species, or habitat for plant species, contributing to the composition, 

2275 structure, and pattern typical of the vegetative systems, but are not required to be within their 

2276 natural range of variability or to meet forestwide habitat requirements. 

2277 MA-DC-ARS-06. Group Recreation Sites

2278 The forest’s recreation program meets the increasing public demand for large (100+ people) 

2279 group sites in developed and dispersed recreation settings.

2280 Objectives

2281 MA-OBJ-ARS-01. Large Group Sites

2282 Within 15 years of plan implementation, provide a minimum of one large (100+ person 

2283 capacity) group site for day or overnight use in a location where there is a demonstrated need 

2284 identified through public demand.

2285 MA-OBJ-ARS-02. Parking Capacity for Sno-Parks and Trailheads

2286 Within 15 years of plan implementation, increase parking capacity at one Sno-Park and one 

2287 trailhead where use exceeds designed parking lot capacity on more than 25 percent of 

2288 weekends. 
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2289 Standards

2290 MA-STD-ARS-01. Water Drafting Sites

2291 When water drafting sites must be located in developed recreation sites, operational hours 

2292 must be outside of quiet hour regulations which are generally 10 pm to 6 am. Water drafting 

2293 may occur from 6 am to 10 pm.

2294 MA-STD-ARS-02. Vegetation Management 

2295 Vegetation, such as hazard trees, that are a threat to visitor safety at the site must be felled or 

2296 removed. Vegetation or excess fuels that interfere with the primary use of the site must be 

2297 treated through methods that retain the primary purpose of the site. This includes, but is not 

2298 limited to, mechanical vegetation treatments or the use of fire.

2299 Guidelines

2300 MA-GDL-ARS-01. Site Capacity and New Construction

2301 Recreation facilities may be managed at or near full capacity. Areas where recreation demand 

2302 exceeds capacity should be managed to increase capacity relative to anticipated recreation 

2303 trends, or alternatively, to limit use or unacceptable social and resource impacts, or a 

2304 combination of both.

2305 MA-GDL-ARS-02. Resource Management Applicable Guidance

2306 Forestwide desired conditions and design criteria for Vegetation (with the exception of the 

2307 Biological Legacies plan components for snags and coarse woody debris), Water Resources, 

2308 Riparian Management Areas and Soils should be implemented when making management 

2309 decisions in administrative and recreation sites. These resource decisions should be secondary 

2310 to the safe human use and occupancy needs of the sites. Large woody debris may be retained 

2311 or removed from a site when it contributes to, or interferes with, site design, delineation, or site 

2312 use. 

2313 MA-GDL-ARS-03. Winter Recreation Resorts

2314 Dispersed camping is generally not suitable for these areas.

2315 Prescribed fire and wildfire used to achieve resource objectives may be suitable for enhancing 

2316 area operations or reducing fuel accumulations. 

2317 Existing resorts should be retained if they continue to serve the public interest.

2318 MA-GDL-ARS-04. Treatment of Structures

2319 New developments should blend with the surrounding landscape and should meet the 

2320 recreation opportunity spectrum and scenic integrity objective design elements associated with 

2321 the area in which the developments are located.

2322 MA-GDL-ARS-05. Water Drafting Sites

2323 Water drafting sites should be located outside of developed recreation sites and managed to 

2324 minimize adverse effects on the recreating public. Drafting equipment should not restrict access 

2325 to boat launches, docks, trails, parking areas, or campsites.
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2326 Suitable Uses

2327 MA-SU-ARS-01. Suitable Uses

2328 Table 17. Suitable uses for Administrative and Recreation Sites management areas

Activity or Use May authorize May not authorize

Facilities, administrative X

Facilities, developed recreation X

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses or 

permits

Recommend against

Prescribed fire X

Wildfire, use of unplanned ignition X

Forest products - commercial use (non-timber harvest) X

Forest products - firewood, commercial use X

Forest products - firewood, permitted personal use X

Forest products, personal use X

Grazing, permitted X (in recreation 

sites)

X (in administrative 

sites)

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure associated 

with special use permits, such as communication sites, 

energy developments, and/or utility lines.

X

Mechanized recreational use, summer X

Minerals, leasable – surface occupancy X

Minerals, locatable X

Minerals, saleable X

Motorized recreational use, summer, trails or play areas X

In campgrounds 

with designated 

motorized trails

X

Motorized recreational use, winter, trails or crosscountry

X

Non-motorized recreational use, summer X

Non-motorized recreational use, winter X

Road construction, permanent X

Road construction, temporary X

Special use permits, recreational X

Timber harvest as a tool X

Timber harvest, scheduled production X

Utility corridors X
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2329 BACKCOUNTRY (BC) AND BACKCOUNTRY MOTORIZED (BCM)

2330 This section provides management direction for two management areas; Backcountry and 

2331 Backcountry Motorized. The only difference between the management areas is suitability 

2332 for non-motorized and motorized recreation. 

2333 Backcountry emphasizes non-motorized recreation opportunities and can include foot, 

2334 horse, and mechanized (e.g., mountain bikes) modes of travel. Backcountry motorized 

2335 emphasizes summer and winter motorized recreation opportunities and can include off2336 highway vehicles, motorcycles, jeeps, and over-snow vehicles. 

2337 Direction common to both management areas is stated once. Management direction not 

2338 common to both is labeled, such as motorized recreation direction. 

2339 Backcountry and Backcountry Motorized are spatially defined by the upper reaches of 

2340 watersheds in the 2001 Inventoried Roadless Areas, the potential wilderness areas 

2341 identified in the plan revision wilderness evaluation process, wildlife habitats that include 

2342 grizzly bear and deer/elk winter range, and threatened, endangered, and sensitive plant 

2343 communities.

2344 Desired Condition 

2345 MA-DC-BC-BCM-01. Vegetation 

2346 The landscape is natural appearing. It contributes to the variety of native plant communities 

2347 and the structure as defined in desired conditions for vegetation, aquatic, and wildlife habitats. 

2348 The desired conditions for vegetation are achieved through a combination of ecological 

2349 processes and management activities. While the landscape is predominantly natural appearing, 

2350 a few locations have a vegetation structure that is altered to contribute to the recreational 

2351 setting such as openings created and retained for scenic views.

2352 MA-DC-BC-BCM-02. Habitat

2353 The areas provide connectivity and contribute aquatic, plant, and wildlife habitat conditions for 

2354 species that benefit from low human use (e.g., these areas provide a high level of habitat 

2355 effectiveness).

2356 MA-DC-BC-BCM-03. Recreation Setting and Activities 

2357 These areas provide an unroaded setting for a variety of summer and winter recreational 

2358 opportunities. Seasonal use restrictions occur for the purpose of resource protection and 

2359 recreation management. Human-caused changes from management actions related to 

2360 recreation are limited in scale, generally not visibly evident, and reflect a semi-primitive 

2361 recreational opportunity setting.

2362 MA-DC-BC-BCM-04. Developments and Improvements

2363 Facilities (whether Forest Service or under permit) are those necessary to protect resources, 

2364 provide for safety, public benefit, or to enhance semi-primitive recreation experiences. Facilities

2365 are few and include such things as fire lookouts, radio repeaters, administrative buildings, 

2366 trailheads, trails, signs, bridges, and shelters as well as facilities needed for resource protection 

2367 such as toilets, stock containment systems, fences, or water developments.
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2368 MA-DC-BC-BCM-05. Travelways, Roads 

2369 There are no National Forest System roads. Other travelways, such as trails, are present.

2370 Standards

2371 MA-STD-BC-01. Motor Vehicle Use 

2372 Motor vehicle use is prohibited. The following vehicles and uses are exempt from the motor 

2373 vehicle use prohibition:

2374 • Aircraft

2375 • Use of any fire, military, emergency, or law enforcement vehicle for emergency purposes

2376 • Authorized use of any combat or combat support vehicle for national defense purposes

2377 • Law enforcement response to violations of law, including pursuit

2378 • Motor vehicle use that is specifically authorized under a written authorization issued 

2379 under Federal law or regulations

2380 • Limited administrative use by the Forest Service.

2381 • Persons with valid or outstanding rights.

2382 Use of a road or trail that is authorized by a legally documented right-of-way held by a State, 

2383 county, or other local public road authority. 

2384 Suitable Uses

2385 MA-SU-BC-01. Suitable Uses

2386 Table 18. Suitable uses for Backcountry management areas

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Facilities, administrative X

Facilities, developed recreation X

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses or 

permits

X

Recommend 

against

Prescribed fire X

Wildfire, use of unplanned ignition X

Forest products, commercial use (non-timber harvest) X

Forest products, firewood, commercial use X

Forest products, firewood, permitted personal use X

Forest products, personal use X

Grazing, permitted X

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure associated 

with special use permits, such as communication sites, 

energy developments, and/or utility lines.

X

Mechanized recreational use, summer X

Minerals, leasable – surface occupancy X

Minerals, locatable X
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Minerals, saleable X

Motorized recreational use, summer, trails or play areas X

Motorized recreational use, winter, trails or cross-country X

Non-motorized recreational use, summer X

Non-motorized recreational use, winter X

Road construction, permanent X

Road construction, temporary X

Special use permits, recreational X

Timber harvest as a tool X

Timber harvest, scheduled production X

Utility corridors X

Recommend 

against

2387 MA-SU-BCM-01. Suitable Uses

2388 Table 19. Suitable uses for Backcountry Motorized management areas

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Facilities, administrative X

Facilities, developed recreation X

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses or 

permits

X

Recommend against

Prescribed fire X

Wildfire, use of unplanned ignition X

Forest products, commercial use (non-timber harvest) X

Forest products, firewood, commercial use X

Forest products, firewood, permitted personal use X

Forest products, personal use X

Grazing, permitted X

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure associated 

with special use permits, such as communication sites, 

energy developments, and/or utility lines.

X

Mechanized recreational use, summer X

Minerals, leasable – surface occupancy X

Minerals, saleable X

Motorized recreational use, summer, trails or play areas X

Motorized recreational use, winter, trails or crosscountry

X

Non-motorized recreational use, summer X

Non-motorized recreational use, winter X

Road construction, permanent X

Road construction, temporary X
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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86

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Special use permits, recreational X

Timber harvest as a tool X

Timber harvest, scheduled production X

Utility corridors X

2389 FOCUSED RESTORATION (FR)

2390 Spatially, these areas are defined by the key watersheds and grizzly bear and caribou 

2391 recovery areas not included in Backcountry and Backcountry Motorized management 

2392 areas. Important desired habitat conditions for aquatic, plant, and wildlife species are 

2393 found in these areas. 

2394 Desired Condition

2395 MA-DC-FR-01. Vegetation

2396 The landscape is natural appearing to slightly altered and contributes to the variety of native 

2397 plant communities and the composition, structure, and patterns as defined in desired 

2398 conditions for vegetative systems, aquatic, plant, and wildlife habitats. The desired conditions 

2399 for vegetation are achieved through a combination of ecological processes and management 

2400 activities. While the landscape is predominantly natural appearing, there are some locations 

2401 where the vegetation composition, structure, or pattern is altered.

2402 MA-DC-FR-02. Habitat

2403 These areas contribute important habitat for plant, wildlife, and aquatic species that benefit 

2404 from areas with relatively low road density and high habitat effectiveness (e.g., relatively low 

2405 level of human disturbances). 

2406 Road interaction with surface and sub-surface water is such that it does not result in an increase 

2407 in drainage density and/or accelerated or abnormal hill slope failure. Roads function in a 

2408 hydraulic and geomorphic manner that provides watershed-scale aquatic habitat connectivity 

2409 and contributes to attainment of state water quality standards.

2410 MA-DC-FR-03. Recreation Setting and Activities

2411 These areas provide a setting for a variety of developed and dispersed summer and winter 

2412 recreation activities and contributes to wildlife-related recreational opportunities (e.g., wildlife 

2413 viewing, hunting, etc.). Seasonal use restrictions occur for the purpose of resource protection 

2414 and recreation management. Human-caused changes from management actions related to 

2415 recreation are limited in scale, naturally appearing, and reflect a Roaded Natural recreational 

2416 opportunity spectrum setting. There are some locations where the vegetation composition, 

2417 structure, or pattern is altered to provide a recreational setting such as openings for scenic 

2418 views.

2419 MA-DC-FR-04. Developments and Improvements

2420 Facilities (whether operated by the Forest Service or under permit) are those necessary to 

2421 protect resources, provide for safety, public benefit, or to enhance Roaded Natural recreation 

2422 opportunity spectrum experiences. Facilities should reflect the rustic style associated with the 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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2423 Rocky Mountain Province character type by using native materials, earth toned colors and blend 

2424 into the natural landscape as much as feasible. Facilities include such things as campgrounds, 

2425 boat launches, fire lookouts, radio repeaters, administrative buildings, trailheads, and trails. 

2426 Improvements are evident and may include signs, bridges, fences, shelters, campsites, scenic 

2427 pullouts/overlooks, interpretive displays, stock containment systems and water developments. 

2428 Concentrated use by the public may occur at facilities associated with developed recreation 

2429 sites. 

2430 MA-DC-FR-05. Travelways, Roads

2431 Road densities vary considerably across the management area; however, there is no more than 

2432 one mile per square mile within the focused restoration management areas within each 5th 

2433 field watershed. 

2434 Total road density is calculated as miles of open and closed National Forest System road per 

2435 square mile of National Forest System lands. This does not include roads under another 

2436 jurisdiction.

2437 Suitable Uses

2438 MA-SU-FR-01. Suitable Uses

2439 Table 20. Suitable uses for Focused Restoration management area

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Facilities, administrative X

Facilities, developed recreation X

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses or 

permits

May recommend

Prescribed fire X

Wildfire, use of unplanned ignition X

Forest products, commercial use (non-timber harvest) X

Forest products, firewood, commercial use X

Forest products, firewood, permitted personal use X

Forest products, personal use X

Grazing, permitted X

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure associated 

with special use permits, such as energy developments, 

and/or utility lines.

X

Mechanized recreational use, summer X

Minerals, leasable – surface occupancy X

Minerals, locatable X

Minerals, saleable X

Motorized recreational use, summer, trails or play areas,

Off-highway vehicle use

X

Motorized recreational use, winter, trails or cross-country X

Non-motorized recreational use, summer X

Non-motorized recreational use, winter X
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Road construction, permanent X

Road construction, temporary X

Special use permits, recreational X

Timber harvest as a tool X

Timber harvest, scheduled production X

Utility corridors X

2440 GENERAL RESTORATION (GR)

2441 Spatially this area includes all areas not included in another management area. 

2442 Desired Condition

2443 MA-DC-GR-01. Vegetation

2444 The landscape is natural appearing and contributes to the variety of native plant communities 

2445 and the composition, structure, and patterns as defined in desired conditions for vegetative 

2446 systems, aquatic, plant, and wildlife habitats. The desired conditions for vegetation are achieved 

2447 through a combination of ecological processes and management activities. While the landscape 

2448 is natural appearing, there are locations that have a vegetation composition, structure, or 

2449 pattern that is altered to provide a recreational setting such as openings maintained for scenic 

2450 views; or other desired conditions, such as vegetation fuel conditions adjacent to an urban 

2451 interface. 

2452 MA-DC-GR-02. Habitat

2453 These areas contribute habitat for plant and wildlife species that are relatively tolerant of 

2454 human activities/disturbances. Habitat effectiveness is expected to be lower for species that are 

2455 sensitive to human activities and disturbances. These areas provide wildlife-related recreational 

2456 opportunities (e.g., wildlife viewing, hunting, etc.). 

2457 Road interactions with surface and sub-surface water is such that there is limited potential to 

2458 increase drainage density and/or accelerated or abnormal hill slope failure. Roads function in a 

2459 hydraulic and geomorphic manner that provides watershed and sub-basin scale aquatic habitat 

2460 connectivity and contributes to attainment of state water quality standards.

2461 MA-DC-GR-03. Recreation Settings and Activities

2462 These areas provide settings for a variety of developed and dispersed summer and winter 

2463 recreation activities. Seasonal use restrictions occur for the purpose of resource protection and 

2464 recreation management. Recreation use is generally dispersed and/or located at recreation 

2465 developments, such as campgrounds. Human-caused changes from management actions 

2466 related to recreation are limited in scale, generally not visually evident, and reflect a roaded 

2467 natural recreational opportunity setting.

2468 MA-DC-GR-04. Developments and Improvements

2469 Facilities (whether operated by the Forest Service or under permit) are those necessary to 

2470 protect resources, provide for safety, public benefit, or to enhance roaded natural recreation 

2471 experiences. Facilities include such things as campgrounds, boat launches, fire lookouts, radio 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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89

2472 repeaters, administrative buildings, trailheads, and trails. Improvements are evident and may 

2473 include signs, bridges, fences, shelters, campsites or scenic pullouts/overlooks, interpretive 

2474 displays, stock containment systems and water developments. Concentrated use by the public 

2475 may occur at facilities associated with developed recreation sites.

2476 MA-DC-GR-05. Travelways, Roads

2477 This area has National Forest System roads, which may be maintained at maintenance levels 1 

2478 through 5 (primitive roads to highways). National Forest System trails also exist. Road densities 

2479 vary across the management area; however, they are no more than two miles per square mile 

2480 within the general restoration management areas within each 5th field watershed. 

2481 Total road density is calculated as miles of open and closed National Forest system road per 

2482 square mile of National Forest System lands. This does not include roads under another 

2483 jurisdiction.

2484 Suitable Uses

2485 MA-SU-GR-01. Suitable Uses

2486 Table 21. Suitable uses for General Restoration management area

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Facilities, administrative X

Facilities, developed recreation X

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses or permits May 

recommend

Prescribed fire X

Wildfire, use of unplanned ignition X

Forest products, commercial use (non-timber harvest) X

Forest products, firewood, commercial use X

Forest products, firewood, permitted personal use X

Forest products, personal use X

Grazing, permitted X

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure associated with 

special use permits, such as communication sites, energy 

developments, and/or utility lines.

X

Mechanized recreational use, summer X

Minerals, leasable – surface occupancy X

Minerals, locatable X

Minerals, saleable X

Motorized recreational use, summer trails, or play areas, offhighway vehicle use

X

Motorized recreational use, winter, trails or cross-country X

Non-motorized recreational use, summer X

Non-motorized recreational use, winter X

Road construction, permanent X

Road construction, temporary X
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Special use permits, recreational X

Timber harvest as a tool X

Timber harvest, scheduled production X

Utility corridors X

2487 NATIONALLY DESIGNATED TRAILS (NT)

2488 (Special Area)

2489 A national trail system was established by Congress in 1968 through the National Trails 

2490 System Act. The National Trails System is made up of National Scenic Trails (NST), National 

2491 Historic Trails (NHT), National Recreation Trails (NRT), and side/connecting trails. NSTs and 

2492 NHTs may only be designated by Congress. The Secretary of Agriculture may establish 

2493 National Recreation Trails. 

2494 Congress designated the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail (PNT) in the 2009 Omnibus 

2495 Public Land Management Act. Approximately 197 miles of the PNT runs through the Colville 

2496 National Forest and private lands from the Washington/Idaho border west to the Forest’s 

2497 boundary with the Okanogan/Wenatchee National Forest. Several sections of the PNT use 

2498 existing trails on the Forest, such as the Kettle Crest National Recreation Trail, the 

2499 Abercrombie Mountain Trail, and the Shedroof Divide National Recreation Trail. Numerous 

2500 sections of the trail are also located on State, county, and National Forest System roads. A 

2501 few sections require cross-country travel. Once the legislatively required Comprehensive 

2502 Plan for the PNT is complete, work will start to identify trail routes where none exist and to 

2503 move the trail off its existing road alignments.

2504 Table 16 displays the trails that are nationally designated on the Colville National Forest. 

2505 Management direction is for all nationally designated trails located within the 

2506 administrative boundaries of National Forest System lands. The corridor where 

2507 management direction applies consists of the foreground viewing area, which is generally 

2508 one-half mile in width either side of the centerline of the trail, including viewpoints, water 

2509 sources, campsites, and spur trails to these features. Where the management area corridor 

2510 overlaps with other management areas, such as wilderness or national scenic byways, the 

2511 most protective management direction applies.

2512 Desired Condition

2513 MA-DC-NT-01. National Recreation Trails 

2514 National recreation trails administered by the Colville National Forest are predominantly located 

2515 on National Forest System lands and may cross a number of jurisdictions and private land where 

2516 the Forest Service may hold legal easements for access and trail protection. The trails outside of 

2517 wilderness are clearly marked and identified for users with the national recreation or scenic trail 

2518 symbol, especially at junctions with side trails and each trail’s termini. Access allows for public 

2519 use, interpretation, and education in a manner that does not impair the feature(s) for which the 

2520 trails were established. Vistas seen from the trails in areas outside wilderness are retained 

2521 through the removal of vegetation.
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2522 National recreation trails meet the maintenance standards for the designated trail class and 

2523 managed use, and, where possible, facilitate ease of travel for users with a low to moderate skill 

2524 level with some exceptions due to topography and remoteness. 

2525 Limited facilities, such as viewing platforms, benches and interpretive signs may be present 

2526 along the trail. Trailheads may offer amenities such as picnic facilities or interpretive 

2527 information that enhances the experience of using the trail. These facilities support the 

2528 outstanding features of the trails and are in harmony with the surrounding environment.

2529 Areas of high value occurring within the corridor, such as rare plant sites, cultural sites, or 

2530 unique geologic features, are protected.

2531 The immediate foreground (0 to 200 feet) views from the nationally designated trails vary from 

2532 natural-appearing landscapes where human activities do not stand out (high scenic integrity) to 

2533 unaltered landscapes where generally only ecological changes occur (very high scenic integrity).

2534 The Kettle Crest, Lakeshore, Pass Creek-Grassy Top, and Shedroof Divide National Recreation 

2535 Trails provide a non-motorized trail experience where visitors can experience the scenic 

2536 qualities of the area.

2537 MA-DC-NT-02. National Scenic Trails 

2538 National scenic trails are congressionally designated areas that pass through a variety of 

2539 physical features, ranging from natural-appearing settings to locations where developments are 

2540 noticeable or dominant. National scenic trails are accessible by non-motorized means, such as 

2541 skis or snowshoes, foot, and by pack and saddle stock. 

2542 National scenic trails meet pack and saddle “more difficult” design and maintenance standards 

2543 for most of their length. Alternative stock routes may be offered in addition to the designated 

2544 trail in locations where hazards (such as slides) are difficult to mitigate.

2545 Road crossings as well as motorized trail crossings are the only evidence of motorized use. 

2546 Where possible, trailhead parking facilities are located outside of the trail corridor and are 

2547 generally not visible from the trail. Short spur trails connect the trailhead to the main trail. 

2548 Outside of wilderness, the national scenic trail’s service mark is displayed at road crossings and 

2549 at junctions with side trails. 

2550 Bridges may be present where needed for resource protection or to accommodate those users 

2551 with a moderate skill level.

2552 Degraded destination areas are restored (vegetation is returned to the natural range of 

2553 variability) to provide for public use while improving the immediate foreground view from the 

2554 trail and area focal points such as lakeshores. Outside of wilderness, vistas are retained through 

2555 the removal of vegetation.

2556 The visible foreground (generally one-half mile from the trail's centerline) views from national 

2557 scenic trails vary from natural-appearing landscapes where human activities do not stand out 

2558 (high scenic integrity) to unaltered landscapes where generally only ecological changes occur 

2559 (very high scenic integrity.)

2560 Easements are in place for those trail segments crossing non-National Forest System lands. 

2561 Management of the national scenic trail is coordinated between the affected managing units. 
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2562 The Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail provides a non-motorized trail experience where 

2563 visitors can experience the scenic, historic, natural, and cultural qualities of the Colville National 

2564 Forest.

2565 MA-DC-NT-03. Pacific Northwest Scenic Trail Interim Management 

2566 Outside of congressionally designated wilderness, the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail's 

2567 Comprehensive Plan will identify the nature and purpose of the trail, along with trail uses. 

2568 Other uses of a National Scenic Trail corridor must not substantially interfere with its nature and 

2569 purposes. Where segments of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail interim route overlays 

2570 open Forest System Roads, the motorized use on the road may continue. Motorized use 

2571 identified on the motor vehicle use map would continue on open National Forest System roads 

2572 that are utilized as sections of the interim Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail route.

2573 Objective

2574 MA-OBJ-NT-01. Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail 

2575 Within 15 years of plan implementation, relocate 10 to 15 percent of the trail miles currently 

2576 located on roads into a non-motorized trail setting.

2577 Standards

2578 MA-STD-NT-01. Management Actions

2579 Visual impacts from vegetation treatments, planned ignition, recreation uses, and other 

2580 structures will blend with the overall landscape character along nationally designated trails.

2581 Guidelines

2582 MA-GDL-NT-01. Uses 

2583 Where segments of the Pacific Northwest National Scenic trail overlay National Forest System 

2584 roads open to motorized use, the motorized use on the road may continue. 

2585 MA-GDL-NT-02. Campsites 

2586 Where possible, campsites should be topographically or vegetatively screened from the trail. 

2587 MA-GDL-NT-03. Wildland Fire Management 

2588 Wildland fire should generally be allowed to play its natural role of influencing natural processes 

2589 and scenic values. Trail infrastructure should be protected. Avoid closures of National Scenic 

2590 Trails unless the safety risk cannot be otherwise mitigated. 

2591 MA-GDL-NT-04. Wildland Fire Suppression

2592 Creating obvious lasting signs of suppression activities within the visible foreground up to one2593 half mile of centerline of the trail should be avoided. Unavoidable or unintentional suppression 

2594 activities, such as helispots or cut stumps, should be fully rehabilitated within view of the trail. 

2595 Use of the trail alignment as a fireline should generally not be authorized. Natural features 

2596 should be used for wildland fire containment lines whenever possible. Use of red chemical fire 

2597 retardants where there would be a lasting visual effect should be avoided.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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93

2598 MA-GDL-NT-05. Trail Markings

2599 Trail markings (e.g., signs, blazes) should be designed to complement the character of the 

2600 surrounding lands.

2601 MA-GDL-NT-06. Vegetation Management

2602 Vegetation management may be used as a tool for ecosystem restoration and to retain vistas 

2603 and the desired condition of a natural-appearing landscape. Hauling and skidding along the 

2604 Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail should not be allowed in order to protect trail integrity.

2605 MA-GDL-NT-07. Developments

2606 New developments which do not support use of or enhance a nationally designated trail should 

2607 not be placed within the visual corridor of the trail.

2608 Suitable Uses

2609 MA-SU-NT-01. Suitable Uses

2610 Table 22. Suitable uses for nationally designated trails management areas

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Facilities, administrative X

Facilities, developed recreation X

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses or 

permits

Recommend against

Prescribed fire X

Wildfire, use of unplanned ignition X

Forest products, commercial use (non-timber harvest) X

Forest products, firewood, commercial use X

Forest products, firewood, permitted personal use X

Forest products, personal use X

Grazing, permitted X

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure associated 

with special use permits, such as communication sites, 

energy developments, and/or utility lines.

X

Existing 

Infrastructure

X

New Infrastructure

Mechanized recreational use X

except in 

designated 

wilderness and if 

otherwise 

permitted on the 

National Scenic 

Trail

Minerals, leasable – surface occupancy X

Minerals, locatable X not allowed if trail 

corridor is withdrawn 

from mineral entry

Minerals, saleable X

Motorized recreational use, summer, trails or play areas X
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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94

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Motorized recreational use, winter, trails or crosscountry

X

Non-motorized recreational use, summer X

Non-motorized recreational use, winter X

Road construction, permanent X X

Road construction, temporary X

Special use permits, recreational X must not 

substantially 

interfere with the 

NST's nature and 

purposes

Timber harvest as a tool X

Timber harvest, scheduled production X

Utility corridors X

2611 RESEARCH NATURAL AREAS (RNA)

2612 (Special Area)

2613 Research natural areas (RNA), whether established or proposed, are a part of a national 

2614 network of ecological areas designated in perpetuity for research and education and/or to 

2615 maintain biological diversity on National Forest System lands. They are established to 

2616 provide study and protection of a full range of habitat types and remain in a relatively 

2617 unaltered condition for non-manipulative research, observation, and study.

2618 Management activities in a research natural area must be consistent with the purposes for 

2619 which the RNA was established (or proposed), or specifically to maintain the values of the 

2620 RNA. Purposes and values specific to a research natural area are identified in establishment 

2621 reports. In the absence of an establishment report, purposes and values are those 

2622 identified in the forest service directives for RNAs.

2623 Forest Plan direction applies, whether the research natural area is established or proposed. 

2624 The Forest Supervisor approves or disapproves management activities within the areas in 

2625 coordination with the Pacific Northwest Research Station director. 

2626 Table 23. Colville National Forest research natural areas 

Name Acres Status Habitat Type Protected

Bunchgrass 

Meadows

812 Established Subalpine fir/Cascade azalea community; subalpine 

fir/beargrass community; subalpine fir/big huckleberry 

community; mid-elevation permanent pond and drainage 

basin; mid-elevation sphagnum bog

Fire Mountain 1,457 Proposed Douglas-fir/pinegrass community; ponderosa pine/pinegrass 

community; subalpine fir/huckleberry community snowberry 

phase

Hall Ponds 629 Proposed Mid-elevation freshwater wetland

Halliday Fen 727 Established Western red cedar/queen’s cup community; western red 

cedar/devil’s club community; western red cedar 

hemlock/queen’s cup community; marl fen
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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95

Name Acres Status Habitat Type Protected

Maitlen Creek 655 Established Douglas-fir/ninebark forest; Douglas-fir/pinegrass woodland; 

grand fir/queen’s cup forest; mid-elevation stream; subalpine 

fir/pinegrass forest; subalpine fir/twinflower forest; western 

hemlock/queen’s cup forest; western larch forest; western red 

cedar/queen’s cup forest; mid-elevation stream and riparian 

system; red alder forest

Round Top 

Mountain

214 Established Green fescue grassland; subalpine fir/beargrass forest; 

subalpine fir/Cascades azalea woodland

Salmo 1,410 Established Mid-elevation stream; subalpine fir/beargrass forest; 

subalpine fir/Cascade azalea woodland; western 

hemlock/five-leaved red bramble forest; western 

hemlock/fools huckleberry forest; western hemlock/queen’s 

cup forest; western red cedar/devil’s club forest; western 

white pine/queen’s cup forest

2627 Desired Condition

2628 MA-DC-RNA-01. Research Purposes 

2629 Native species and natural processes predominate. Research natural areas remain in a relatively 

2630 unaltered condition for non-manipulative research, observation, and study. Human uses or 

2631 activities consist mostly of occasional protection or restoration activities and low impact 

2632 recreational use suited to the semi-primitive non-motorized recreation opportunity spectrum.

2633 Uses and activities do not interfere with the objectives for which the research natural area was 

2634 established. Vegetation, wildland fire, fuels, and recreation management protect, perpetuate, 

2635 or restore the unique and/or representative ecosystems. Non-motorized, non-mechanized trails 

2636 protect research natural area attributes. The hydrology of research natural areas is unaltered by 

2637 water diversions, water developments, or mining-related subsidence in adjacent areas. The area 

2638 is withdrawn from locatable mineral entry. 

2639 Objectives

2640 MA-OBJ-RNA-01. Establishment Record 

2641 Within 15 years of plan implementation, complete the establishment record on all proposed 

2642 research natural areas.

2643 MA-OBJ-RNA-02. Invasive Species 

2644 Within 15 years of plan implementation, treat populations of invasive, non-native species on an 

2645 average of 10 acres annually. 

2646 Standards

2647 MA-STD-RNA-01. Research Purposes 

2648 Proposed research natural areas will be managed to ensure that the characteristics which make 

2649 them a good recommendation will be maintained until such time as they are designated.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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96

2650 Suitable Uses

2651 MA-SU-RNA-01. Suitable Uses

2652 Table 24. Suitable uses for Research Natural Area management areas

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Facilities, administrative Facilities needed for 

research purposes

X

Facilities, developed recreation X

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses or 

permits

X

Recommend against

Prescribed Fire X

Wildfire, use of unplanned ignition X

Forest products, commercial use (non-timber harvest) X

Forest products, firewood, commercial use X

Forest products, firewood, permitted personal use X

Forest products, personal use X

Grazing, permitted X (existing) X (new or additional 

use)

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure associated 

with special use permits, such as communication sites, 

energy developments, and/or utility lines.

X (existing) X (new or additional 

use)

Mechanized recreational use, summer X

Minerals, leasable – surface occupancy X

Minerals, locatable X

Minerals, saleable X

Motorized recreational use, summer, trails or play areas X

Motorized recreational use, winter, trails or crosscountry

X

Non-motorized recreational use, summer X

Non-motorized recreational use, winter X

Road construction, permanent X

Road construction, temporary X

Special use permits, recreational X

Timber harvest as a tool X

Timber harvest, scheduled production X

Utility corridors X

2653 RIPARIAN MANAGEMENT AREAS (RMA)

2654 Riparian management areas include portions of watersheds where aquatic and riparian2655 dependent resources receive primary emphasis and where special management direction 

2656 applies. Riparian management areas are designated for all permanently flowing streams, 

2657 lakes, wetlands, seeps, springs and intermittent streams, and unstable sites that may 

2658 influence these areas. Riparian management areas are used to maintain and restore the 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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97

2659 riparian structure and function of intermittent and perennial streams, confer benefits to 

2660 riparian-dependent plant and animal species, enhance habitat conservation for organisms 

2661 that are dependent on the transition zone between upslope and riparian areas, and 

2662 contribute to a greater connectivity of the watershed for both riparian and upland species.

2663 Fish-bearing streams − RMAs consist of the stream and the area on each side of the stream, 

2664 extending from the edges of the active stream channel to the top of the inner gorge, or to 

2665 the outer edges of the 100-year floodplain, or to the outer edges of riparian vegetation, or 

2666 to a distance equal to the height of two site-potential trees, or 300 feet slope distance 

2667 (600 feet total, including both sides of the stream channel), whichever is greatest. It is 

2668 expected that RMA widths along fish-bearing streams will not be less than described here.

2669 Permanently flowing non-fish-bearing streams − RMAs consist of the stream and the area 

2670 on each side of the stream, extending from the edges of the active stream channel to the 

2671 top of the inner gorge, or to the outer edges of the 100-year floodplain, or to the outer 

2672 edges of riparian vegetation, or to a distance equal to the height of one site-potential tree, 

2673 or 150 feet slope distance (300 feet total, including both sides of the stream channel), 

2674 whichever is greatest.

2675 Constructed ponds and reservoirs, and wetlands greater than one acre – RMAs consist of 

2676 the body of water or wetland and the area to the outer edges of the riparian vegetation, or 

2677 to the extent of seasonally saturated soil, or the extent of unstable and potentially unstable 

2678 areas, or to a distance equal to the height of one site-potential tree, or 150 feet slope 

2679 distance from the edge of the wetland greater than one acre or the maximum pool 

2680 elevation of constructed ponds and reservoirs, whichever is greatest.

2681 Lakes and natural ponds − RMAs consist of the body of water and the area to the outer 

2682 edges of the riparian vegetation, or to the extent of seasonally saturated soil, or to the 

2683 extent of unstable and potentially unstable areas, or to a distance equal to the height of 

2684 two site-potential trees, or 300 feet slope distance, whichever is greatest.

2685 Seasonally flowing or intermittent streams, wetlands, seeps and springs less than one acre, 

2686 and unstable and potentially unstable areas − This category applies to features with high 

2687 variability in size and site-specific characteristics. At a minimum, these RMAs should 

2688 include:

2689 • The extent of unstable and potentially unstable areas (including earthflows).

2690 • The stream channel and extend to the top of the inner gorge.

2691 • The stream channel or wetland and the area from the edges of the stream channel or 

2692 wetland to the outer edges of the riparian vegetation or wetland, extending from the 

2693 edges of the stream channel to a distance equal to the height of one site-potential tree, 

2694 or 100 feet slope distance, whichever is greatest. A site-potential tree height is the 

2695 average maximum height of the tallest dominant trees for a given site class.

2696 Intermittent streams are defined as any non-permanent flowing drainage feature having a 

2697 definable channel and evidence of annual scour or deposition. This includes what are 

2698 sometimes referred to as ephemeral streams if they meet these two physical criteria. 

2699 Including intermittent streams, springs, and wetlands within RMAs is important for full 

2700 implementation of aquatic and riparian plan direction. Accurate identification of these 

2701 features is critical to the correct implementation of the strategy and protection of the 

2702 intermittent stream and wetland functions and processes. Identification of these features is 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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98

2703 difficult at times due to the lack of surface water or wet soils during dry periods. Fish2704 bearing intermittent streams are distinguished from non-fish-bearing intermittent streams 

2705 by the presence of any species of fish for any duration. Many intermittent streams may be 

2706 used as spawning and rearing streams, refuge areas during flood events in larger rivers and 

2707 streams or travel routes for fish emigrating from lakes. In these instances, the plan 

2708 components for fish-bearing streams would apply to those sections of the intermittent 

2709 stream used by the fish.

2710 Riparian management areas have no assigned recreation opportunity spectrum. The 

2711 underlying management area’s recreation opportunity spectrum applies in the riparian 

2712 management area. 

2713 Desired Condition

2714 MA-DC-RMA-01. Composition 

2715 Riparian management areas consist of native flora and fauna in a functional system and a 

2716 distribution of physical, chemical, and biological conditions appropriate to natural disturbance 

2717 regimes affecting the area.

2718 MA-DC-RMA-02. Key Riparian Processes 

2719 Key riparian processes and conditions (including slope stability and associated vegetative root 

2720 strength, capture and partitioning of water within the soil profile, wood delivery to streams and 

2721 within the riparian management areas, input of leaf and organic matter to aquatic and 

2722 terrestrial systems, solar shading, microclimate, and water quality) are operating consistently 

2723 with local disturbance regimes.

2724 MA-DC-RMA-03. Livestock Grazing 

2725 Livestock grazing of riparian vegetation retains sufficient plant cover, rooting depth and 

2726 vegetative vigor to protect stream bank and floodplain integrity against accelerated erosional 

2727 processes, and allows for appropriate deposition of overbank sediment. 

2728 MA-DC-RMA-04. Roads 

2729 Roads located in or draining to riparian management areas do not present a substantial risk to 

2730 soil or hydrologic function. Roads do not disrupt riparian and aquatic function.

2731 Objectives

2732 MA-OBJ-RMA-01. Improve Riparian Function at Dispersed and Developed Recreation 

2733 Sites

2734 Over the next 15 years, restore riparian processes and balance need for occupancy and access 

2735 to water at 50 dispersed and developed recreation sites, through education, enforcement, and 

2736 engineering where recreational use results in bank damage, reduction in water quality, and/ or 

2737 a reduction in stream shade.

2738 MA-OBJ-RMA-02. Restoration of Riparian Habitat and Process on Roads 

2739 Restore hydrologic and riparian habitat function within riparian management areas in non-key 

2740 watersheds by reducing road-related impacts on 30 miles of road within 15 years.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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99

2741 MA-OBJ-RMA-03. Restoration of Late Forest Structure 

2742 Move upland vegetation within riparian management areas outside of key watersheds toward 

2743 historic range of variability on 500 acres within 15 years of plan implementation.

2744 Standards

2745 MA-STD-RMA-01. Aquatic and Riparian Conditions 

When riparian management areas are properly functioning, 8 2746 project activities shall maintain 

2747 those conditions.

2748 When riparian management areas are not properly functioning, and to the degree that 

2749 management activities would drive or contribute to improper function, project activities shall 

2750 be implemented to improve those conditions.

2751 Project activities in riparian management areas shall not result in long-term degradation to 

2752 aquatic and riparian conditions at the watershed scale. Limited short-term or site-scale effects 

2753 from activities in riparian management areas may be acceptable when they support, or do not 

2754 diminish, long-term benefits to aquatic and riparian resources. 

2755 MA-STD-RMA-02. Chemical Application 

2756 Apply herbicides, insecticides, piscicides, and other toxicants, other chemicals, and biological 

2757 agents only to maintain, protect, or enhance aquatic and riparian resources and/or native plant 

2758 communities.

2759 MA-STD-RMA-03. Personal Fuelwood Cutting 

2760 Personal fuelwood cutting shall not be authorized within riparian management areas or source 

2761 areas for large woody debris.

2762 MA-STD-RMA-04. Timber harvest and Thinning 

2763 Timber harvest and thinning can occur in riparian management areas only as necessary to move 

2764 vegetation in riparian management areas toward historic range of variability, which maintains, 

2765 restores, or enhances conditions needed to support aquatic and riparian-dependent resources.

2766 MA-STD-RMA-05. Yarding Activities 

2767 Yarding activities, if crossing streams, shall achieve full suspension over the active channel.

2768 MA-STD-RMA-06. Road Construction and Maintenance 

2769 No sidecasting or placement of fill in riparian management areas. Snowplowing activities shall 

2770 include measures to prevent runoff from roads in locations where it could deliver sediment to 

2771 streams.

 8 Assessment of properly or fully functioning condition is a concept originally developed by BLM to assess the natural 

habitat forming processes of riparian and wetland areas (Pritchard et al. 1993). Ecosystems at any spatial or 

temporal scale are in a properly functioning condition when they are dynamic and resilient to disturbance to 

structure, composition, and processes of their biological and physical components (USDA Forest Service 1998). 

Primary elements of ecological function include hydrologic, vegetative, and aquatic and riparian characteristics, 

physical structure and form, and water quality.
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2772 MA-STD-RMA-07. Road Construction at Stream Crossings 

2773 New or replaced permanent stream crossings will accommodate at least the 100-year flood, 

2774 including associated bedload and debris. Use natural channel design techniques.

2775 MA-STD-RMA-08. Road Construction-Fish Passage

2776 In fish-bearing streams, construction or reconstruction of stream crossings will provide and 

2777 maintain passage for all native fish species at all life stages.

2778 MA-STD-RMA-09. Recreational and Permitted Grazing Management-Livestock 

2779 Handling, Management, and Water Facilities

2780 Locate new livestock handling, management, or watering facilities outside of riparian 

2781 management areas, except for those that inherently must be located in a riparian management 

2782 area and those that are needed for resource protection. 

2783 MA-STD-RMA-10. Permitted Grazing Management − Allotment Management Planning 

2784 During allotment management planning, negative impacts to water quality and aquatic and 

2785 riparian function from existing livestock handling or management facilities located within 

2786 riparian management areas shall be minimized to allow conditions to move toward the desired 

2787 condition or eliminated.

2788 MA-STD-RMA-11. Recreational and Permitted Grazing Management − Fish Redds

2789 Prohibit livestock access to federally listed threatened or endangered fish redds.

2790 MA-STD-RMA-12. Wildland Fire and Fuels Management − Minimum Impact 

2791 Suppression Tactics 

2792 Use minimum impact suppression tactics (MIST) during wildland fire suppression activities in 

2793 riparian management areas.

2794 MA-STD-RMA-13. Wildland Fire and Fuels Management − Portable Pumps 

2795 Portable pump set-ups shall include containment provisions for fuel spills, and fuel containers 

2796 shall have appropriate containment provisions. Park vehicles in locations that do not allow entry 

2797 of spilled fuel into streams.

2798 MA-STD-RMA-14. Lands and Special Uses Authorizations 

2799 Authorizations for all new and existing special uses (including, but not limited to water 

2800 diversion, storage or transmission facilities [e.g., pipelines, ditches], energy transmission lines, 

2801 roads, hydroelectric and other surface water development proposals) shall result in the re2802 establishment, restoration, or mitigation of soil and habitat conditions and ecological processes 

2803 identified as being essential for the maintenance or improvement of habitat conditions for fish, 

2804 soil, water, and other riparian-dependent species and resources. These processes include in2805 stream flow regimes, physical and biological connectivity, water quality, and integrity and 

2806 complexity of riparian and aquatic habitat.

2807 MA-STD-RMA-15. Hydroelectric − New Support Facilities 

2808 Locate new support facilities outside of riparian management areas. Support facilities include 

2809 any facilities or improvements (workshops, housing, switchyards, staging areas, transmission 

2810 lines, etc.) not directly integral to the production of hydroelectric power or necessary for the 

2811 implementation of prescribed protection, mitigation, or enhancement measures.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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101

2812 Guidelines

2813 MA-GDL-RMA-01. Fuel Storage 

2814 Storage of fuel or other toxicants in riparian management areas should be avoided.

2815 MA-GDL-RMA-02. Felling Trees 

2816 When trees are felled for safety, they should generally be retained onsite (channels and 

2817 adjacent floodplains) to maintain, protect, or enhance aquatic and riparian resources unless 

2818 otherwise determined that such trees pose a new risk to administrative or developed recreation 

2819 sites.

2820 MA-GDL-RMA-03. Landings, Skid Trails, Decking, and Temporary Roads 

2821 Landings, designated skid trails, staging or decking should not occur in riparian management 

2822 areas, unless there are no other reasonable alternatives, in which case they should:

2823 • Be of minimum size

2824 • Be located outside the active floodplain 

2825 • Minimize effects to large wood, bank integrity, temperature, and sediment levels 

2826 • Not result in unnatural modification of flow paths 

2827 • Impacted site(s) to be reclaimed as soon as practicable. 

2828 Existing infrastructure may be reused with intent of removal and restoration of riparian function 

2829 as soon as practicable.

2830 MA-GDL-RMA-04. Road Construction 

2831 Construction of permanent or temporary roads in riparian management areas should be 

2832 avoided except where necessary for:

2833 • stream crossings

2834 • stream, wetland, or riparian restoration

2835 • mine reclamation 

2836 • employee, contractor, or public safety

2837 MA-GDL-RMA-05. Road Construction – Wetlands and Unstable Areas 

2838 Wetlands and unstable areas should be avoided when reconstructing existing roads or 

2839 constructing new roads and landings. Impacts should be mitigated where avoidance is not 

2840 possible.

2841 MA-GDL-RMA-06. Road Management – Road Drainage

2842 Road drainage should be routed away from potentially unstable channels, fills, and hillslopes.

2843 MA-GDL-RMA-07. Road Construction – Passage for Riparian-dependent Species 

2844 Construction or reconstruction of stream crossings should allow passage for other riparian2845 dependent species where connectivity has been identified as an issue.
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102

2846 MA-GDL-RMA-08. Fish Passage Barriers 

2847 Consider retaining fish passage barriers where they serve to restrict access by undesirable non2848 native species and are consistent with restoration of habitat for native species.

MA-GDL-RMA-09. Permitted Grazing Management – Greenline Vegetation Areas 9 2849

Within greenline vegetation areas adjacent to all watercourses, 10 2850 measured in designated 

2851 monitoring areas:

2852 • Streambank alteration should not exceed 25 percent 

2853 • Utilization of available mean annual vegetative production on woody vegetation should 

2854 not exceed 40 percent

2855 • Residual stubble height of at least 6 to 8 inches should be maintained and no more than 

2856 40 percent of mean annual vegetative production on deep-rooted herbaceous vegetation 

2857 should be utilized as determined by plant community type

2858 MA-GDL-RMA-10. Recreational and Permitted Grazing Management – Livestock 

2859 Handling Activities 

2860 Livestock trailing, bedding, loading, and other handling activities should be avoided in riparian 

2861 management areas, except for those that inherently must occur in a riparian management area. 

2862 MA-GDL-RMA-11. Recreation Management – New Facilities and Infrastructure 

2863 New facilities or infrastructure should not be placed within expected long-term channel 

2864 migration zones. Activities that inherently occur in riparian management areas (e.g., road 

2865 stream crossings, boat ramps, docks, interpretive trails) should be located to minimize impacts 

2866 on riparian-dependent resource conditions (e.g., within geologically stable areas, avoiding 

2867 major spawning sites).

2868 MA-GDL-RMA-12. Recreation Management – Existing Facilities 

2869 Consider removing or relocating existing recreation facilities that are not meeting desired 

2870 conditions in riparian management areas or are in active floodplains.

2871 MA-GDL-RMA-13. Mineral Management – Operations in Riparian Management Areas

2872 Operators should take all practicable measures to maintain, protect, and rehabilitate water 

2873 quality and habitat for fish and wildlife, and other riparian-dependent resources that may be 

2874 affected by operations occurring in the riparian management area. 

2875 MA-GDL-RMA-14. Minerals Management – Structures and Support Facilities 

2876 Structures and support facilities should be located outside riparian management areas. Where 

2877 no alternative sites exist for facilities or roads outside of riparian management areas, work with 

2878 operators to locate them in a way to minimize adverse effects to aquatic and other riparian-

 9 A greenline is the first perennial vegetation that forms a lineal grouping of community types on or near the water’s 

edge. Most often it occurs at or slightly below the bankfull stage.

10 Numeric values in this guideline may be modified to effectively achieve desired conditions. Rationale for these 

changes must be documented. This guideline can be applied solely or in combination as appropriate to site specific 

conditions. Sampling and assessment of these parameters is intended to portray the general condition of banks and 

riparian vegetation along an individual stream reach within each pasture after the grazing season. It is assumed that 

there will be some variability in geomorphic, hydrologic and vegetation conditions within designated monitoring 

areas, including occasional, limited areas of concentrated animal use, such as water gaps or crossings.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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2879 dependent resources. Existing roads should be maintained to minimize damage to aquatic and 

2880 riparian-dependent resources in the riparian management areas. 

2881 MA-GDL-RMA-15. Minerals Management – Mine Waste 

2882 Forest mineral administrators would work with mine operators, within the Plan of Operations 

2883 review process, to store mine waste with the potential to generate hazardous material (per 

2884 CERCLA - Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980) 

2885 outside of riparian management areas. 

2886 If no reasonable alternative to locating these facilities in riparian management areas exists, 

2887 Forest mineral administrators would work with mine operators, within the Plan of Operations 

2888 review process, to design the waste facilities using best conventional techniques to ensure mass 

2889 stability, neutralize waste materials to the extent practicable, and prevent the release of acid or 

2890 toxic materials.

2891 Forest mineral administrators would work with mine operators, within the Plan of Operations 

2892 review process, to reclaim and monitor waste facilities to assure chemical and physical stability 

2893 and revegetation to avoid adverse effects to inland native fish.

2894 MA-GDL-RMA-16. Minerals Management – Operating Plans for Existing Activities 

2895 Forest mineral administrators would work with mine operators, within the Plan of Operations 

2896 review process, to locate or relocate mine operations and facilities outside riparian 

2897 management areas to minimize adverse effects to aquatic and riparian-dependent resources.

2898 MA-GDL-RMA-17. Wildland Fire and Fuels Management – Temporary Fire Facilities 

2899 Temporary fire facilities (e.g., incident bases, camps, staging areas, helispots, and other centers) 

2900 for incident activities should be located outside riparian management areas. When no practical 

2901 alternative exists, all appropriate measures to maintain, restore, or enhance aquatic and 

2902 riparian-dependent resources should be used. 

2903 MA-GDL-RMA-18. Water Drafting Sites 

2904 Water drafting sites should be located and managed to minimize adverse effects on stream 

2905 channel stability and in-stream flows needed to maintain riparian resources, channel 

2906 conditions, and fish habitat.

2907 MA-GDL-RMA-19. Wildland Fire and Fuels Management – Fire Line Construction 

2908 Water bars on fire lines should be located and configured to minimize sediment delivery to 

2909 streams and to minimize creation of new stream channels and unauthorized roads and trails. 

2910 MA-GDL-RMA-20. Pump and Dipping Equipment Cleaning 

2911 Suction devices and dipping apparatus should be cleaned and pumps should be de2912 contaminated between water sources to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.

2913 Pumping should be done in accordance with current Washington Department of Fish and 

2914 Wildlife hydraulic project approval.

2915 MA-GDL-RMA-21. Wildland Fire and Fuels Management – Burning Masticated Fuels

2916 To minimize soil damage when burning masticated fuels within riparian management areas, 

2917 burning of masticated fuel beds greater than 3 inches in depth should be accomplished with 

2918 moist soil conditions.
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2919 MA-GDL-RMA-22. Hydroelectric – Existing Support Facilities 

2920 Existing support facilities that are located within riparian management areas should be 

2921 operated, maintained, or removed to restore or enhance aquatic and riparian-dependent 

2922 resources.

2923 MA-GDL-RMA-23. Administrative and Developed Recreation Facilities

2924 New administrative and developed recreation facilities should be located outside of riparian 

2925 management areas unless they are needed for resource protection or must inherently be 

2926 located within the riparian management area.

2927 Suitable Uses

2928 MA-SU-RMA-01. Suitable Uses

2929 Table 25. Suitable uses for Riparian Management Area

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Facilities, administrative X

Facilities, developed recreation X

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses or permits Recommend against

Prescribed fire X

Wildfire, use of unplanned ignition X

Forest products, commercial use (non-timber harvest) X

Forest products, firewood, commercial use X

Forest products, firewood, permitted personal use X

Forest products, personal use X

Grazing, permitted X

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure associated with 

special use permits, such as communication sites, energy 

developments, and/or utility lines.

X

Mechanized recreational use, summer X

Minerals, leasable – surface occupancy X

Minerals, locatable X

Minerals, saleable X

Motorized recreational use, summer, trails or play areas X X

play areas not 

authorized

Motorized recreational use, winter, trails or cross-country X

Non-motorized recreational use, summer X

Non-motorized recreational use, winter X

Road construction, permanent X

Road construction, temporary X

Special use permits, recreational X

Timber harvest as a tool X

Timber harvest, scheduled production X

Utility corridors X
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

105

2930 SCENIC BYWAYS (SB)

2931 (Special Area)

2932 Two types of federally designated scenic byways are found on the Forest – an All-American 

2933 Road and a National Forest Scenic Byway (designated by the Forest Service). The State of 

2934 Washington also designated many of these byways as state scenic byways. Some roads 

2935 have multiple designations. 

2936 A one-half mile strip on either side of the byway centerline defines the Scenic Byway 

2937 Management Area. 

2938 Management direction applies only to portions of the byway within National Forest System 

2939 lands. The Forest Supervisor authorizes management activities on the scenic byways 

2940 regardless of designating authority unless especially reserved.

2941 Table 26 lists the scenic byways on the Forest and the miles of each byway within the 

2942 Forest. Each of the scenic byways contains mileage outside of national forest boundaries. 

2943 Table 26. Scenic byways within the Colville National Forest

Name Designation Intrinsic qualities 

(apply only to national 

byways)

Length (miles on 

NFS land)

International Selkirk Loop All American Road Recreational, scenic 2.7

North Pend Oreille Scenic 

Byway

National Forest Scenic 

Byway

n/a 12.3

Sherman Pass Scenic 

Byway

National Forest Scenic 

Byway

n/a 23.8

2944 Desired Condition

2945 MA-DC-SB-01.Landscape and Developments 

2946 Scenic byway management areas provide opportunities to view high-quality scenery, historical,

2947 and natural features. Viewsheds along scenic byways provide natural-appearing landscapes and 

2948 enhance recreation tourism that supports local communities. 

2949 Developments and roadwork along scenic byways reflect a design theme unique to each byway.

2950 Scenic byways have facilities to enhance opportunities for viewing scenery, wildlife, or other 

2951 important features. Recreation sites, such as day-use sites, and related developments, such as 

2952 signs, viewpoints, and interpretive installations are present. Most developed sites are 

2953 universally accessible at an easy to moderate difficulty level. Access to features or viewpoints 

2954 may be provided by facilities and trails.

2955 The intrinsic qualities identified for each scenic byway remain intact. 

2956 Scenic byways exhibit natural-appearing landscapes where human activities do not stand out in 

2957 the foreground, up to one-half mile (high scenic integrity).

2958 Scenic byways provide Roaded Natural recreation opportunities.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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106

2959 Objective

2960 MA-OBJ-SB-01. Desired Landscape Character 

2961 Within 15 years of plan implementation, move 10 percent of the foreground and middle ground 

2962 seen areas of National Scenic Byways toward meeting scenic integrity objectives. Priority for 

2963 rehabilitation and enhancement of desired landscape character includes the Sherman Pass 

2964 Scenic Byway.

2965 Guidelines

2966 MA-GDL-SB-01. Vegetation Management 

2967 The desired landscape character of the area should be retained or enhanced using appropriate 

2968 vegetation management treatments including mechanical harvest. 

2969 MA-GDL-SB-02. Visual Impacts

2970 Visual impacts from vegetation treatments, recreation uses, rangeland developments, and 

2971 other structures should blend with the overall landscape character along scenic byways.

2972 MA-GDL-SB-03. Education, Interpretation, and Safety Information

2973 Signs, kiosks, and other exhibits should provide interpretive, education, and safety information 

2974 along scenic byways and in adjacent recreation sites.

2975 Suitable Uses

2976 MA-SU-SB-01. Suitable Uses

2977 Table 27. Suitable uses for Scenic Byways management areas

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Facilities, administrative X

Facilities, developed recreation X

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses or 

permits

Recommend against

Prescribed fire X

Wildfire, use of unplanned ignition X

Forest products, commercial use (non-timber 

harvest)

X

Forest products, firewood, commercial use (if in 

support of achieving recreation or scenery 

management needs)

X

Forest products, firewood, permitted personal use X

Forest products, personal use X

Grazing, permitted X

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure 

associated with special use permits, such as 

communication sites, energy developments, and/or 

utility lines.

X

Mechanized recreational use, summer X
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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107

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Minerals, leasable – surface occupancy X

Minerals, locatable X

Minerals, saleable X

Motorized recreational use, summer, trails or play 

areas

X

Motorized recreational use, winter, trails or crosscountry off highway vehicle use

X

Non-motorized recreational use, summer X

Non-motorized recreational use, winter X

Road construction, permanent X

Road construction, temporary X

Special use permits, recreational X

Timber harvest as a tool X

Timber harvest, scheduled production X

Utility corridors X

2978 SPECIAL INTEREST AREA (SIA)

2979 (Special Area)

2980 Special interest areas are a category of administratively designated area with outstanding 

2981 natural characteristics or unique recreation or cultural values. The management objective of 

2982 each special interest area is to protect for public use and enjoyment, special recreation areas 

2983 with scenic, geological, botanical, zoological, paleontological, historical, or other special 

2984 characteristics or unique values.

2985 Special interest areas are managed as an integral part of the National Forest System with 

2986 management emphasis placed on protecting the unique values for which each special interest 

2987 area was designated. In this Forest Plan, special interest areas represent a special type of 

2988 management area that overlays the forestwide and specific management area (i.e.,

2989 Backcountry, Backcountry Motorized, Scenic Byway, National Scenic Trail, Focused Restoration, 

2990 and General Restoration) direction that applies to the land base within each special interest 

2991 area’s boundary. In other words, each special interest area has its own distinct management 

2992 direction that supports the unique values for which it was designated. In addition, each special 

2993 interest area incorporates the management direction contained in the underlying Management 

2994 Areas to support the multiple values and resources (range, timber, wildlife, fire, hydrology, etc.) 

2995 available within each special interest area. The other values and resources that exist in each 

2996 special interest area should be managed to a level compatible with each special interest area’s 

2997 unique values as well as the overall management objectives contained in the Forest Plan. If a 

2998 conflict in management direction is identified between the special interest area specific 

2999 management direction and the underlying management area direction, the special interest 

3000 area-specific direction would apply.

3001 The Kettle Crest Recreation Special Interest Area is the only special interest area on the Forest 

3002 included in this Forest Plan and consists of 82,800 acres along the east and west slopes of the 

3003 Kettle River Range located on both the north and south sides of U.S. Highway 20. This special 

3004 interest area was identified as a special recreation area by both motorized and non-motorized 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

108

3005 recreation interests as well as wilderness supporters and non-wilderness advocates throughout 

3006 the forest plan revision process. The Kettle Crest was designated as a recreation special interest 

3007 area for its outstanding four-season motorized and non-motorized trail opportunities located 

3008 primarily in the higher elevations of the Okanogan Highlands ecoregion. The special interest 

3009 area’s physical, managerial and social settings exhibit the undeveloped, natural setting and the 

3010 unconfined opportunities for solitude, exploration, risk, and challenge associated with the 

3011 unique semi-primitive motorized and semi-primitive non-motorized recreation opportunities 

3012 available within the special interest area. 

3013 Further description of the unique values and information on the management of special 

3014 interest area can be found in the Forest Service directives at FSM 2372. 

3015 Desired Condition

3016 MA-DC-SIA-01. Natural Landscapes

3017 The special interest area displays natural landscapes and features where generally only 

3018 ecological changes occur (high scenic integrity) within the Semi-primitive Non-motorized and 

3019 Semi-primitive Motorized ROS classes.

3020 The special interest area provides opportunities to view high-quality scenery, historical and 

3021 natural features (high scenic integrity) within the Roaded Natural ROS class.

3022 Viewsheds across the entire special interest area enhance recreation tourism opportunities that 

3023 support local communities.

3024 MA-DC-SIA-02. Developments 

3025 Recreation developments within the special interest area reflect a consistent design theme 

3026 unique to the special interest area, are universally accessible, are necessary for public 

3027 enjoyment of the area, and support the unique recreational trail opportunities of the area 

3028 without disturbing the special features of the special interest area. 

3029 Developments such as stock tanks, stock corrals, and fences blend in with the natural 

3030 surroundings or are not visible from primary trail systems and campsites.

3031 MA-DC-SIA-03. Wildlife

3032 The special interest area contributes to conserving natural habitats and processes that sustain 

3033 wildlife populations and provides opportunities to observe wildlife in their natural habitats.

3034 MA-DC-SIA-04. Ecological Processes 

3035 Ecological conditions in the Semi-primitive Non-motorized and Semi-primitive Motorized ROS 

3036 classes are affected primarily by natural ecological processes, with the appearance of little or no 

3037 human intervention.

3038 Fire functions as a natural ecological process.

3039 The special interest area is free of noxious weed species and other invasive species.

3040 Native species and native plant communities are the desired dominant vegetation throughout 

3041 the special interest area. Little evidence of human impacts on native vegetation exists outside 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

109

3042 of high use areas, such as campsites, within the Semi-primitive Non-motorized and Semi3043 primitive Motorized ROS classes. 

3044 MA-DC-SIA-05. Visitor Use

3045 Visitor use does not negatively affect the special interest area’s undeveloped, natural setting or 

3046 the unconfined opportunities for solitude, exploration, risk, and challenge associated with the 

3047 semi-primitive recreation opportunities available within the special interest area. 

3048 MA-DC-SIA-06. Other Forest Uses

3049 Where suitable, other forest uses such as permitted grazing, forest products gathering, and 

3050 timber harvest is encouraged in a manner compatible with or that enhances the values for 

3051 which the special interest area was established.

3052 Objectives

3053 MA-OBJ-SIA-01. Trailhead Management

3054 Within 15 years of plan implementation, construct at least one trailhead for the motorized trail 

3055 system that accesses the Backcountry Motorized Management Area associated with the Twin 

3056 Sisters Inventoried Roadless Area. 

3057 FW-OBJ-SIA-02. Trail Management

3058 Within 15 years of plan implementation, design and construct at least one motorized loop trail 

3059 opportunity within the Backcountry Motorized Management Area associated with the Twin 

3060 Sisters Inventoried Roadless Area and at least one non-motorized loop trail opportunity within 

3061 the Backcountry Management Area associated with the Profanity Inventoried Roadless Area. 

3062 FW-OBJ-SIA-03. Sno-Park Management

3063 Within 15 years of plan implementation, move or reconstruct the over-snow vehicle sno-park 

3064 located on the Albian Hill Road (Forest Road 2030) to accommodate at least twice the existing 

3065 capacity.

3066 Standards

3067 MA-STD-SIA-01. Recreation Opportunity Spectrum 

3068 Project implementation will meet the recreation opportunity classes as shown in appendix E for 

3069 the Kettle Crest Recreation Special Interest Area.

3070 Guidelines

3071 MA-GDL-SIA-01. Permitted Grazing

3072 Braided trails resulting from permitted grazing that are located near National Forest System 

3073 trails should be restored or blocked. Rock cairns or signs should be installed in areas with 

3074 braided trails to reinforce the designated trail route for trail users until the braided trails recover 

3075 with vegetation.

3076 MA-GDL-SIA-02. Communication Facilities

3077 Permanent Forest Service radio repeaters may be authorized in all ROS classes within the 

3078 special interest area when radio dead zones cannot be serviced by locations outside of the 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

110

3079 special interest area. Repeaters should be out of sight of trails and destination areas. 

3080 Communication facilities essential for provisional uses may be co-located with Forest Service 

3081 repeaters.

3082 MA-GDL-SIA-03. Fire 

3083 Use of planned and management of unplanned fire ignitions may be authorized. Fire should be 

3084 allowed to play its natural ecological role in the semi-primitive non-motorized and semi3085 primitive motorized ROS classes of the SIA. The preferred strategy for managing unplanned fires 

3086 is to manage for the benefit of resources. A full suppression strategy may be used where or 

3087 when a fire: 

3088 1) has a high potential to spread outside national forest boundaries, or into areas with extensive 

3089 recreation or administrative developments; 

3090 2) is not meeting resource objectives;

3091 3) would adversely affect the long-term recovery of ESA listed species.

3092 MA-GDL-SIA-04. Invasive Species

3093 Manual, biological, or chemical treatments may be authorized to eradicate, reduce, or control 

3094 populations of invasive species within all ROS classes of the special interest area. 

3095 MA-GDL-SIA-05. Trail and Facility Maintenance

3096 Motorized (chainsaws, toters, trail machines, motorcycles, etc.) and mechanized (mountain 

3097 bikes, wheel barrels, etc.) equipment may be used to complete annual trail and facility 

3098 maintenance tasks as well as trail and facility reconstruction projects in all ROS classes within 

3099 the special interest area.

3100 Suitable Uses

3101 MA-SU-SIA-01. Suitable Uses 

3102 Table 28. Suitable uses for Special Interest Area management areas

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Facilities, administrative X

Facilities, developed recreation X

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses or 

permits

X

Fire, planned ignition X

Fire, use of unplanned ignition X

Forest products, commercial use (non-timber harvest) X

Forest products, firewood, commercial use X

Forest products, firewood, permitted personal use X

Forest products, personal use X

Grazing, permitted X

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure associated 

with special use permits, such as communication sites, 

energy developments, and/or utility lines

X
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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111

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Mechanized recreation use, summer X

Minerals, leasable – surface occupancy X

Minerals, locatable X

Minerals, saleable X

Motorized recreation use, summer, trails or play areas X

RN and SPM 

ROS classes

X

SPNM ROS class

Motorized recreation use, winter, trails or cross-country 

off-highway vehicle use

X

RN and SPM 

ROS classes

X

SPNM ROS class

Non-motorized recreation use, summer X

Non-motorized recreation use, winter X

Road construction, permanent X

RN ROS class

X

SPM and SPNM ROS 

classes

Road construction, temporary X

RN ROS class

X

SPM and SPNM ROS 

classes

Special use permits, recreational X

Timber harvest as a tool X

Timber harvest, scheduled production X

RN ROS class

X

SPM and SPNM ROS 

classes

Utility corridors X

3103 WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS (WSR)

3104 (Special Area)

3105 Congress designates wild and scenic rivers as part of the Wild and Scenic Rivers System 

3106 under the authority of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, as amended (1968). Currently, there 

3107 are no congressionally designated rivers on the Forest. 

3108 Eligible rivers are free flowing and have one or more outstandingly remarkable value of 

3109 regional or national significance. Suitable rivers are those eligible rivers where protection of 

3110 the outstandingly remarkable values is more important than other resource benefits and 

3111 congressional designation is determined to be the best option for protecting the values of 

3112 the river. Rivers found to be both eligible and suitable by the Forest Service may be 

3113 recommended to Congress for designation. Eligible or suitable rivers are managed to 

3114 preserve their eligibility. Management direction is the same for eligible, suitable, or 

3115 recommended rivers. The river corridor is generally one-quarter mile from either side of 

3116 the riverbank. However, protection of outstandingly remarkable values may require 

3117 encompassing a larger area. 

3118 Table 29 shows rivers that were found to be eligible or suitable in the first generation forest 

3119 plans and rivers that are proposed under plan revision. Proposed rivers have not been 

3120 segmented in classification.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

112

3121 Table 29. Eligible or suitable wild and scenic rivers by segment and classification

River name Found eligible in 

1988 Forest Plan

Recommended 

classification

Miles Current eligible 

or suitable status

South Fork Salmo River X Wild 5 Eligible

Kettle River A Recreational 3 Eligible

3122 Desired Condition

3123 MA-DC-WSR-01. Wild, Recreational, or Scenic Rivers

3124 Prior to congressional designation, uses continue that do not compromise wild and scenic 

3125 eligibility. Eligible rivers and adjacent tributaries remain free flowing, retain water quality, and 

3126 preserve their outstandingly remarkable values. These river segments contribute to a diversity 

3127 of habitats within National Forest System lands. 

3128 MA-DC-WSR-02. Wild River Segments 

3129 Visitors have the opportunity to interact with a relatively pristine natural environment with low 

3130 to moderate likelihood of experiencing the sight and sound of other people. Eligible wild river 

3131 segments display unaltered landscapes where generally only ecological changes occur (very 

3132 high scenic integrity) and provide Pristine, Primitive or Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized recreation 

3133 opportunities. Wild river segments may be accessed by trail. Wild rivers within designated 

3134 wilderness meet the desired conditions for congressionally designated wilderness.

3135 MA-DC-WSR-03. Recreational 

3136 Eligible recreational river segments are readily accessible by roads, display landscapes which 

3137 vary from moderately altered where human activities are evident (low scenic integrity) to 

3138 slightly altered where human activities may be seen but do not attract attention (moderate 

3139 scenic integrity) and provide a Roaded Natural or Semi-Primitive Motorized recreation 

3140 opportunity.

3141 The sights and sounds of other visitors are evident, and the likelihood of encounters with other 

3142 visitors may be moderate to high. Visitors seeking solitude may find it difficult to achieve, 

3143 particularly in peak use seasons. Trails and facilities may be highly developed, including 

3144 hardened trails, campgrounds, and day use sites designed to serve persons of all abilities.

3145 Standard

3146 MA-STD-WSR-01. Outstandingly Remarkable Values

3147 Each eligible river’s free-flowing condition, outstandingly remarkable values, and classification 

3148 shall be sustained until a suitability study and determination is completed.

3149
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

113

3150 Suitable Uses

3151 MA-SU-WSR-01. Suitable Uses

3152 Table 30. Suitable uses in Wild and Scenic River management areas

Activity or Use Wild Recreational

Facilities, administrative May authorize May authorize

Facilities, developed recreation May not authorize May authorize

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses 

or permits

Recommend against Recommend against

Prescribed fire May authorize May authorize

Wildfire, use of unplanned ignition May authorize May authorize

Forest products, commercial use (non-timber 

harvest)

May not authorize May not authorize

Forest products, firewood commercial use May not authorize May not authorize

Forest products, firewood permitted personal use May not authorize May not authorize

Forest products, personal use May not authorize May not authorize

Grazing, permitted May authorize May authorize

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure 

associated with special use permits, such as 

communication sites, energy developments, 

and/or utility lines 

May not authorize May authorize

Mechanized recreational use, summer May not authorize May authorize

Minerals, leasable - surface occupancy Existing uses can 

continue; May not 

authorize new uses

May authorize

Minerals - locatable Existing, valid claims at 

time of designation can 

continue; May not 

authorize new uses

May authorize

Minerals – saleable May not authorize May not authorize

Motorized recreational use, summer, trails or play 

areas

May not authorize May authorize

Motorized recreational use, winter, trails or cross 

country

May not authorize May authorize

Non-motorized recreational use, summer May authorize May authorize

Non-motorized recreational use, winter May authorize May authorize

Road construction, permanent May not authorize May authorize

Road construction, temporary May not authorize May authorize

Special use permits, recreational May not authorize, 

except for outfitter and 

guide permits

May authorize

Timber harvest as a tool May not authorize May authorize

Timber harvest, scheduled production May not authorize May not authorize

3153
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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114

3154 Wilderness – Congressionally Designated (W-CD)

3155 (Special Area)

3156 The Colville National Forest has one wilderness area, the Salmo-Priest. Wilderness areas are 

3157 zoned using the Wilderness Resource Spectrum: pristine, primitive, semi-primitive and 

3158 transition zones offer the spectrum of experiential and bio/physical settings typically found 

3159 in wilderness. Due to the size, complexity and use patterns of the Salmo-Priest Wilderness, 

3160 the area administered by the Colville National Forest is designated as “Primitive” in the 

3161 Wilderness Resource Spectrum.

3162 Table 31. Congressionally designated wilderness areas

Wilderness name National Forest 

Administrator

Total Acres Percent Administered by 

Colville National Forest

Salmo-Priest Colville and Idaho Panhandle 43,348 72

3163 Desired Condition

3164 MA-DC-WCD-01. Wilderness Character 

3165 Visitor use does not negatively affect the five qualities of wilderness character (untramelled, 

3166 undeveloped, natural, opportunities for solitude or a primitive and unconfined type of 

3167 recreation) or other features of value.

3168 Wilderness boundaries are posted and visible to visitors.

3169 There are unconfined opportunities for exploration, solitude, risk, and challenge. The non3170 motorized and non-mechanized trail system enhances the wilderness character. To the extent 

3171 necessary, where there is public demand, outfitters and guides provide services to visitors 

3172 seeking a wilderness experience.

3173 The Salmo-Priest Wilderness provides outstanding opportunities for solitude and isolation. 

3174 Encounters with small groups or individuals are infrequent.

3175 Wilderness areas maintain natural landscapes where generally only ecological changes occur 

3176 (very high scenic integrity) and provide primitive and/or semi-primitive non-motorized and non3177 mechanized recreation opportunities.

3178 The wilderness areas are free of noxious weed species and other invasive species. 

3179 Human-caused impacts are limited to relatively small areas along trails and campsites. The 

3180 ecological, geological, scientific, educational, scenic, and historical values of wilderness are 

3181 preserved and perpetuated.

3182 MA-DC-WCD-02. Human Developments 

3183 Wilderness is undeveloped except for those facilities deemed necessary for administration of 

3184 the area as wilderness or essential for accommodating provisional uses. 

3185 There is little evidence of human developments (e.g., stock tanks, stock corrals, fences).
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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115

3186 There is little or no evidence of camping activity, unauthorized trails, trash, or other human 

3187 impacts on the environment. Most campsites are relatively small and accommodate one to 

3188 three small tents or one large tent. Large group campsites accommodate the needs of larger 

3189 groups up to the maximum group size limit and these sites are generally out of view of focal 

3190 areas such as where trails first arrive at a destination. 

3191 • Campsites generally have at least partial topographic or vegetative screening from the 

3192 trail, viewpoints, or other sites.

3193 • Vegetated areas (such as meadows) outside of campsites retain native plant communities 

3194 that are not impacted. 

3195 • Social trails are the minimum necessary to access the system trail, water, other campsites, 

3196 and viewpoints. 

3197 MA-DC-WCD-03. Ecological Processes 

3198 Ecological conditions are affected primarily by natural ecological processes, with the 

3199 appearance of little or no human intervention.

3200 Fire functions as a natural ecological process.

3201 Wilderness contributes to preserving natural behaviors and processes that sustain wildlife 

3202 populations.

3203 Wilderness areas are free of noxious weed species and other invasive species.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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116

3204 MA-DC-WCD-04. Wilderness Resource Spectrum

3205 Table 32. Wilderness resource spectrum class desired condition

Pristine Primitive Semi-primitive Transition

Environment Extensive, virtually 

unmodified natural 

environment that offers a 

high degree of isolation from 

the sights, sounds, and the 

presence of other wilderness 

visitors and contributes 

effective habitat for species 

requiring large areas with 

minimal human disturbance. 

Substantially unmodified 

natural environment that 

offers a remote experience of 

isolation from sights, sounds, 

and the presence of other 

wilderness visitors and 

contributes effective habitat 

for species requiring large 

areas with minimal human 

disturbance.

Predominantly unmodified natural 

environment. Concentrations of 

visitors are low to moderate and 

impacts of human use are 

generally limited to system trails, 

user-established trails, and sites.

Predominantly unmodified natural 

environment. Concentrations of 

visitors are moderate to high at 

various times and evidence of 

human use is likely. Encounters 

with others are likely on trails and 

at sites.

Degree of Solitude Encounters with other groups 

are very infrequent. Visitors 

have a moderately high 

likelihood of seeing no other 

people on a given day. There 

is a very high degree of 

privacy and solitude when 

camped.

Encounters with other groups 

are infrequent and primarily 

on trails and at campsites. 

Overnight visitors have a 

sense of seclusion from other 

overnight groups.

Encounters with other groups are 

fairly frequent. Visitors 

experience relatively long 

interludes of solitude in between 

encountering other groups. 

Visitors will likely see and hear 

other parties when camped.

Encounters with other groups are 

very frequent. Visitors experience 

relatively short interludes of 

solitude in between encountering 

other groups. Visitors regularly 

see and hear other parties when 

camped. 

Campsites Low density of small, discreet 

campsites, not visible or 

audible to each other.

Low density of campsites 

generally not visible or 

audible to each other. Small 

discreet sites are available to 

accommodate smaller group 

sizes. There may be a few 

larger resilient sites that can 

accommodate use from large 

groups.

Moderate density of campsites 

that can absorb multiple groups 

in a given location but still afford 

a moderate degree of privacy 

when visitors are camped. Small 

discreet sites are available to 

accommodate smaller group 

sizes. There may be a few larger 

resilient sites that can 

accommodate use from large 

groups.

Moderate to high density. Sites 

are likely to be intervisible or 

interaudible in a given location, 

however visitors still have a 

sense of privacy afforded by 

vegetation, topography, or 

distance. Campsites are 

managed to accommodate 

constant use during peak use 

periods. Small discreet sites are 

available to accommodate 

smaller group sizes. There may 

be a few larger resilient sites that 

can accommodate use from large 

groups.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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117

Pristine Primitive Semi-primitive Transition

Trails No system trails. Destination 

points accessed by crosscountry travel. User 

established trails 

discontinuous and not 

discernable. Social trails at 

destination areas are almost 

indiscernible. 

System trails present in this 

class are generally at low 

density. Main trails may be 

designed and maintained to 

facilitate through-travel; 

however, challenging 

situations (fording streams 

and rivers) may exist. Side 

trails are generally more 

challenging to travel and 

receive less frequent 

maintenance when funding is 

limited. Some userdeveloped trails may exist, 

but are not encouraged for 

use and are only minimally 

maintained if essential for 

resource protection. 

Proliferation of social trails at 

destination areas is 

minimized through active 

management.

System trails present in this class 

are generally at low to moderate 

density. Trails are generally 

designed and maintained to 

facilitate high use levels; 

however, challenging situations 

(fording streams and rivers) or 

more primitive trails may exist. 

Some user-developed trails may 

exist, but are not encouraged for 

use and are only minimally 

maintained if essential for 

resource protection. Proliferation 

of social trails at destination 

areas is minimized through active 

management.

System trails present in this class 

are generally at a moderate to 

high density. Trails are generally 

designed and maintained to 

facilitate very high use levels and 

are generally less challenging. 

However in some locations a 

more primitive trail may be 

integral to the desired 

experience. Some userdeveloped trails may exist, but 

are not encouraged for use and 

are only minimally maintained if 

essential for resource protection. 

Proliferation of social trails at 

destination areas is minimized 

through active management.

Structures Signs seldom used and only 

for emergency closures or to 

protect wilderness conditions. 

Other than cultural sites, 

there are no structures or 

visible evidence of 

management activities or 

special uses.

Trail junctions are signed. 

Other signs are seldom used 

and only for emergency 

closures or to protect 

wilderness conditions. 

Evidence of other permanent 

structures is limited to cultural 

sites, Forest Service 

administrative structures, and 

those essential for provisional 

uses.

Trail junctions are signed. Other 

signs may be used for 

emergency closures or to protect 

wilderness conditions. Evidence 

of other permanent structures is 

limited to cultural sites, Forest 

Service administrative structures, 

those essential for provisional 

uses, and recreational structures 

essential for resource protection.

Trail junctions are signed. Other 

signs may be used for 

emergency closures or to protect 

wilderness conditions. Evidence 

of other permanent structures is 

limited to cultural sites, Forest 

Service administrative structures, 

those essential for provisional 

uses, and recreational structures 

essential for resource protection.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

118

Pristine Primitive Semi-primitive Transition

Natural processes Natural processes and the 

native flora and fauna are in 

pristine condition and 

function unencumbered and 

unaltered by human 

intervention. Unique and rare 

plant communities are

maintained.

Natural processes and the 

native flora and fauna 

function generally 

unencumbered and unaltered 

by human intervention. 

Unique and rare plant 

communities are maintained. 

Small localized disturbances 

may occur due to recreational 

or administrative activities. 

Ecosystems with 

anthropogenic environmental 

changes are generally 

restored to desired 

conditions.

Natural process and the native 

flora and fauna function generally 

unencumbered and unaltered by 

human intervention. Unique and 

rare plant communities are 

maintained. Areas surrounding 

campsites and destination areas 

may have altered vegetation due 

to recreational activities, but 

native groundcover is generally 

un-impacted outside of sites. Use 

levels during the summer may be 

high enough to interfere with 

those species that require large 

areas of low human use. 

Ecosystems with anthropogenic 

environmental changes are 

generally restored to desired 

conditions.

Natural process and the native 

flora and fauna function generally 

unencumbered and unaltered by 

human intervention. Unique and 

rare plant communities are 

maintained. Areas surrounding 

campsites and destination areas 

may have altered vegetation due 

to recreational activities, but 

native groundcover is generally 

un-impacted outside of sites. Use 

levels during the summer may 

not accommodate those species 

that require large areas of low 

human use. Ecosystems with 

anthropogenic environmental 

changes are generally restored to 

desired conditions.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

119

3206 Standard

3207 MA-STD-WCD-01. Site Impacts 

3208 Human-caused disturbed areas that negatively affect wilderness character will be rehabilitated 

3209 to a natural appearance, using species or other materials native to the area.

3210 MA-STD-WCD-02. Group Size 

3211 Do not authorize wilderness group sizes that exceed the physical capacity, the number of 

3212 available campsites or the social capacity of the specific area of use. Keep the network of large 

3213 group campsites at a minimum necessary to provide for the travel patterns of large groups of up 

3214 to the standard maximum group size limit. At a minimum, partially screen these sites from focal 

3215 areas, such as where visitors first arrive at destinations. Allow no net increase in the number of 

3216 large group sites from the date this plan is implemented.

3217 Group size limit within the Salmo-Priest Wilderness is 12 combined people and stock.

3218 MA-STD-WCD-03. Fire

3219 Objective(s) and strategies for all wildfires shall be identified at the time of the fire.

3220 Fire management activities shall be conducted in a manner compatible with the overall 

3221 wilderness management objectives (minimum impact suppression tactics).

3222 Use prescribed fire only in situations that meet all of the following criteria:

3223 • There is an unnatural buildup of fuel.

3224 • The treatment would increase the probability of accepting naturally occurring wildfire 

3225 disturbance in wilderness when treating areas outside the wilderness boundary would 

3226 not fully achieve this outcome. 

3227 • Strategies use minimum suppression techniques and are designed to maintain and 

3228 restore the vegetation conditions that are characteristic of wilderness. 

3229 Guidelines

3230 MA-GDL-WCD-01. Campsite Development 

3231 Areas appropriate for camping should only be designated if necessary to resolve resource issues 

3232 and not to accommodate increasing levels of use. Generally limit recreational site structures to 

3233 one fire ring and naturally occurring rock or log seats. Authorized recreation developments 

3234 (such as hitch-racks, high-lines, or site hardening) should rarely be installed. These 

3235 developments should only be used where they would reduce or eliminate a proliferation of 

3236 resource impacts and only in locations where other less intrusive tactics (i.e., education and 

3237 enforcement) would not contain the impacts. Development should be removed when no longer 

3238 serviceable or needed. 

3239 Table 33. Authorization of developments in congressionally designated wilderness

Pristine Primitive Semi-primitive Transition

Developments May not authorize May authorize with 

limits

May authorize with 

limits

May authorized 

with limits
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

120

3240 MA-GDL-WCD-02. Communication Facilities 

3241 Permanent repeaters should not be authorized in pristine wilderness resource spectrum zones.

3242 Permanent Forest Service radio repeaters may be authorized in the primitive, semi-primitive, 

3243 and transition wilderness resource spectrum zones when radio dead zones within the 

3244 wilderness cannot be serviced by locations outside of wilderness, and other communication 

3245 devices are ineffective options due to forest cover or topography. Installation of radio repeaters 

3246 should be considered only after other mitigation efforts have been tried and proved to be 

3247 ineffective. Repeaters should be out of sight of trails and destination areas. Communication 

3248 facilities essential for provisional uses may be co-located with Forest Service repeaters.

3249 MA-GDL-WCD-03. Pets 

3250 Pets (such as dogs or other domestic animals that are not categorized as stock) may be 

3251 authorized so long as their presence does not interfere with wildlife or contribute to resource 

3252 impacts or user conflicts. Pets should be fully controlled by their owner through voice 

3253 commands, a leash, or other restraint (such as a shock collar).

3254 MA-GDL-WCD-04. Research, Studies, and Data Gathering 

3255 Non-manipulative research or data gathering may be authorized where such use is reliant on a 

3256 wilderness setting, contributes to the body of science that informs wilderness management and 

3257 societal understanding of the benefits of wilderness, and where the benefits to preserving 

3258 wilderness character outweigh the impacts on wilderness character.

3259 Markings should be unobtrusive and not be viewed from trails or occupied areas. Permanent 

3260 markings should only be authorized when there is a long-term need to relocate the site with a 

3261 high degree of precision where other technologies are not sufficient. Other than unobtrusive 

3262 markings, permanent installations should not be authorized.

3263 MA-GDL-WCD-05. Caching 

3264 Caching of equipment or supplies should not be authorized in wilderness. Waivers to this 

3265 guideline may be given when all of the following criteria are met.

3266 1. The requested cache is administratively necessary for agency use or to support a 

3267 scientific study

3268 2. The cache location is hidden from public view and is non-damaging

3269 3. The cache has an identified date for removal at the completion of the project

3270 MA-GDL-WCD-06. Fish and Wildlife 

3271 Wilderness is generally not suitable for the introduction of non-indigenous wildlife species. 

3272 Fishless waters should not be stocked. Fish stocking can continue where it was an established 

3273 practice prior to wilderness designation. Stocking should be coordinated with the state to 

3274 protect wilderness character including preservation of downstream native fish populations. 

3275 Stocked fish that adversely affect native fish and wildlife populations may be removed from 

3276 lakes, rivers and streams.

3277 MA-GDL-WCD-07. Wildland Fire 

3278 Fire camps, helispots, and other temporary facilities should be located outside the wilderness 

3279 boundary to protect wilderness character.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

121

3280 Firelines and spike camps (i.e., a remote camp usually near a fireline) should not be constructed 

3281 adjacent to trails or camp areas to protect wilderness character.

3282 Planned ignitions should be considered to create favorable conditions that enable naturally 

3283 occurring fires to return to their historic role or to achieve wilderness desired conditions. 

3284 Wildfires should be managed for the benefit of wilderness resources. A full suppression strategy 

3285 may be used where or when a wildfire: 

3286 1. has a high potential to spread outside national forest boundaries, or into areas with 

3287 extensive recreation or administrative developments; 

3288 2. is not meeting wilderness objectives;

3289 3. would adversely affect an ESA-listed species.

3290 MA-GDL-WCD-08. Use of Live Trees 

3291 Live trees that are not listed as a threatened, endangered, or sensitive species may be used for 

3292 administrative purposes such as trail bridge construction.

3293 MA-GDL-WCD-09. Invasive Plants 

3294 Manual, biological, cultural, or chemical treatments may be authorized to eradicate, reduce, or 

3295 control populations of invasive plants. 

3296 MA-GDL-WCD-10. Environmental Clean-Up 

3297 Environmental clean-up projects (such as mine remediation, chemical spills, aircraft recovery, 

3298 building removal) should occur promptly following an activity or incident. Project design should 

3299 provide a greater long-term benefit than long-term impact. 

3300 MA-GDL-WCD-11. Trail Management

3301 New trail construction may be considered if the objective is enhancement of the wilderness 

3302 character (e.g., increase solitude opportunities, restore naturalness).Trails that have minimal 

3303 use, detract from the wilderness character, or cannot practically be maintained or reconstructed 

3304 should be obliterated.

3305
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

122

3306 Suitable Uses

3307 MA-SU-WCD-01. Suitable Uses 

3308 Table 34. Suitable uses for congressionally designated wilderness management area

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Facilities, administrative X

Facilities, developed recreation X

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses or 

permits

Recommend against

Prescribed fire X

Wildfire, use of unplanned ignition X

Forest products, commercial use (non-timber 

harvest)

X

Forest products, firewood, commercial use X

Forest products, firewood, permitted personal use X

Forest products, personal use X

Grazing, permitted X X (Salmo-Priest)

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure 

associated with special use permits, such as 

communication sites, energy developments, and/or 

utility lines.

X

Exception: USFS radio 

repeaters needed for 

dead zones within or 

adjacent to area

Mechanized recreational use, summer X

Minerals, leasable – surface occupancy X

Minerals, locatable Existing valid claims 

may continue

X (new claims)

Minerals, saleable X

Motorized recreational use, summer, trails or play 

areas, off-highway vehicle use

X

Motorized recreational use, winter, trails or crosscountry

X

Non-motorized recreational use, summer X

Non-motorized recreational use, winter X

Road construction, permanent X

Road construction, temporary X

Special use permits, recreational & research X

Timber harvest as a tool X

Timber harvest, scheduled production X

Utility corridors X

3309
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

123

3310 WILDERNESS – RECOMMENDED (RW)

3311 (Special Area)

3312 These areas are lands that have been identified and evaluated through the forest planning 

3313 process as suited for recommendation for addition to the national wilderness preservation 

3314 system. Wilderness characteristics are protected until Congress either designates the area 

3315 as part of the National Wilderness Preservation System or the area is released from 

3316 consideration. If Congress has not acted by the next planning effort, these areas may be 

3317 further evaluated for wilderness designation. 

3318 Subject to the U.S. mining and leasing laws, recommended wilderness are open to mineral 

3319 entry. Recommended wilderness must be segregated from mineral entry or withdrawn 

3320 from mineral entry before congressional designation as “Wilderness.” Until that time, 

3321 mining claims may be filed in recommended wilderness areas. Upon designation as 

3322 wilderness by Congress, designated wilderness areas are legislatively withdrawn from all 

3323 mineral entry under the mining and leasing laws, subject to valid claims.

3324 Table 35. Recommended wilderness by name and acreage

Recommended wilderness area Acres of recommended wilderness

Abercrombie-Hooknose 37,660

Bald Snow 14,693

Salmo-Priest Adjacent 16,710

3325 Desired Condition

3326 MA-DC-RW-01. Uses Prior to Congressional Designation 

3327 Prior to congressional designation, uses continue that do not compromise wilderness eligibility.

3328 MA-DC-RW-02. Management Direction Prior to Congressional Designation 

3329 Prior to congressional designation, recommended wilderness areas meet the desired conditions 

3330 for designated wilderness in order to protect their wilderness characteristics. 

3331 MA-DC-RW-03. Natural Landscapes

3332 Recommended wilderness areas display natural landscapes where generally only ecological 

3333 changes occur (very high scenic integrity) and provide primitive or semi-primitive non3334 motorized recreation opportunities.

3335 MA-DC-RW-04. Wildlife

3336 Recommended wilderness contributes to preserving natural behaviors and processes that 

3337 sustain wildlife populations.

3338 Standards

3339 MA-STD-RW-01. Existing and Proposed Uses 

3340 Management actions must maintain the wilderness characteristics of the recommended 

3341 wilderness areas that were identified in the 2009 wilderness evaluations for the Abercrombie 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

124

3342 Hooknose, Salmo-Priest Adjacent, and Bald Snow recommended wilderness areas prior to 

3343 designation by Congress or release from wilderness consideration.

3344 MA-STD-RW-02. Site Impacts 

3345 Human-caused disturbed areas that negatively affect wilderness character shall be rehabilitated 

3346 to a natural appearance, using species or other materials native to the area.

3347 MA-STD-RW-03. Fire 

3348 Objective(s) and strategies for all unplanned ignitions shall be identified at the time of the fire.

3349 Fire management activities shall be conducted in a manner compatible with maintaining 

3350 wilderness characteristics (minimum impact suppression tactics).

3351 Use planned ignitions only in situations that meet all of the following criteria—

3352 • There is an unnatural buildup of fuel.

3353 • The treatment would increase the probability of accepting naturally occurring fire. 

3354 • Strategies use minimum suppression techniques and are designed to maintain and 

3355 restore the vegetation conditions that are characteristic of wilderness. 

3356 Guidelines

3357 MA-GDL-RW-01. Wilderness Characteristics

3358 The wilderness characteristics (untramelled, undeveloped, natural, opportunities for solitude or 

3359 a primitive and unconfined type of recreation) of each recommended wilderness should remain 

3360 intact until a congressional decision on wilderness designation is made.

3361 MA-GDL-RW-02. Trail Use

3362 Mechanized and non-motorized travel may occur in recommended wilderness.

3363 MA-GDL-RW-03. Motorized Equipment

3364 Motorized equipment (i.e. chain saws, trail machines) may be used for trail maintenance and 

3365 reconstruction. 

3366 MA-GDL-RW-04. Campsite Development 

3367 Areas appropriate for camping should only be designated if necessary to resolve resource issues 

3368 and not to accommodate increasing levels of use. Generally limit recreational site structures to 

3369 one fire ring and naturally occurring rock or log seats. Authorized recreation developments 

3370 (such as hitch-racks, high-lines, or site hardening) should rarely be installed. These 

3371 developments should only be used where they would reduce or eliminate a proliferation of 

3372 resource impacts and only in locations where other less intrusive tactics (i.e. education and 

3373 enforcement) would not contain the impacts. Development should be removed when no longer 

3374 serviceable or needed. 

3375 MA-GDL-RW-05. Pets 

3376 Pets (such as dogs or other domestic animals that are not categorized as stock) may be 

3377 authorized so long as their presence does not interfere with wildlife or contribute to resource 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

125

3378 impacts or user conflicts. Pets should be fully controlled by their owner through voice 

3379 commands, a leash, or other restraint (such as a shock collar).

3380 MA-GDL-RW-06. Fire 

3381 Planned ignitions should be considered to create favorable conditions that enable naturally 

3382 occurring fires to return to their historic role. 

3383 MA-GDL-RW-07. Use of Live Trees 

3384 Live trees may be used for administrative purposes such as trail bridge construction.

3385 MA-GDL-RW-08. Invasive Plants 

3386 Manual, biological, cultural, or chemical treatments may be authorized to eradicate, reduce, or 

3387 control populations of invasive plants

3388 MA-GDL-RW-09. Environmental Clean-Up 

3389 Environmental clean-up projects (such as mine remediation, chemical spills, aircraft recovery, 

3390 building removal) should occur promptly following an activity or incident. Project design should 

3391 provide a greater long-term benefit than long-term impact.

3392
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 3 – Management Area Direction

126

3393 Suitable Uses

3394 MA-SU-RW-01. Suitable Uses

3395 Table 36. Suitable uses for Recommended Wilderness management area

Activity or Use May Authorize May not authorize

Facilities, administrative X

Facilities, developed recreation X

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses or 

permits

Recommend against

Prescribed fire X

Wildfire, use of unplanned ignition X

Forest products, commercial use (non-timber 

harvest)

X

Forest products, firewood, commercial use X

Forest products, firewood, permitted personal use X

Forest products, personal use X

Grazing, permitted X

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure 

associated with special use permits, such as 

communication sites, energy developments, and/or 

utility lines.

X

Exception: Only USFS 

radio repeaters needed 

for dead zones within or 

adjacent to area

Mechanized recreational use, summer X

existing use

X 

new or additional use

Minerals, leasable – surface occupancy X

Minerals - locatable X

Minerals, saleable X

Motorized recreational use, summer, trails or play 

areas

X 

Motorized recreational use, winter, trails or crosscountry off highway vehicle use

X 

Non-motorized recreational use, summer X

Non-motorized recreational use, winter X

Road construction, permanent X

Road construction, temporary X

Special use permits, recreational & research X

Timber harvest as a tool X

Timber harvest, scheduled production X

Utility corridors X
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 4 – Monitoring

127

3396 Chapter 4

3397 MONITORING

3398 INTRODUCTION

3399 Monitoring provides the feedback for the forest planning cycle by testing assumptions, tracking 

3400 relevant conditions over time, measuring management effectiveness, and evaluating effects of 

3401 management practices. Monitoring information should enable the Forest to determine if a 

3402 change in plan components or other plan management guidance may be needed, forming a 

3403 basis for continual improvement and adaptive management. Direction for the monitoring and 

3404 evaluation of forest plans is found under the 1982 Planning Rule at 36 CFR 219.12(k) and under 

3405 the 2012 Planning Rule at 36 CFR 219.12. 

3406 The plan monitoring program addresses the most critical components for informed 

3407 management of the Forest’s resources within the financial and technical capability of the 

3408 agency. Every monitoring question links to one or more goals, desired conditions, objectives, 

3409 standards, or guidelines. However, not every plan component has a corresponding monitoring 

3410 question. 

3411 This monitoring program is not intended to depict all monitoring, inventorying, and data 

3412 gathering activities undertaken on the Forest; nor is it intended to limit monitoring to just the 

3413 questions and indicators listed in table 37. Consideration and coordination with broad-scale 

3414 monitoring strategies, multi-party monitoring collaboration, and cooperation with state 

3415 agencies where practicable will increase efficiencies and help track changing conditions beyond 

3416 the Forest boundaries to improve the effectiveness of the plan monitoring program. In addition, 

3417 project and activity monitoring may be used to gather information for the plan monitoring 

3418 program if it will provide relevant information to inform adaptive management. 

3419 • The monitoring program sets out the plan monitoring questions and associated 

3420 indicators. It is comprised of a monitoring guide and a biennial evaluation report. 

3421 • The monitoring guide provides detailed information on the monitoring questions, 

3422 indicators, frequency and reliability, priority, data sources and storage, and cost. 

3423 An interdisciplinary team will develop a biennial Monitoring Evaluation Report which will 

3424 summarize the results of completed monitoring, evaluate the data, consider relevant 

3425 information from broad-scale or other monitoring efforts, and make recommendations to the 

3426 responsible official. The monitoring evaluation report will indicate whether or not a change to 

3427 the Forest Plan, management activities, or the monitoring program, or a new assessment, may 

3428 be warranted based on the new information. The monitoring evaluation report is used to 

3429 inform adaptive management of the Plan area. The Monitoring Evaluation Report will be made 

3430 available to the public. 

3431 Some kinds of monitoring indicators will require longer time frames for thorough evaluation of 

3432 results, but a biennial review of what information has been collected will ensure timely 

3433 evaluation to inform planning. The biennial monitoring evaluation does not need to evaluate all 

3434 questions or indicators on a biennial basis, but must focus on new data and results that provide 

3435 new information regarding management effectiveness, progress towards meeting desired 

3436 conditions or objectives, changing conditions, or validation (or invalidation) of assumptions. 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Chapter 4 – Monitoring

128

3437 Table 37 is the monitoring program. This table displays the monitoring questions, the reference 

3438 to Forest Plan direction, the indicator(s) for answering the monitoring question, the frequency 

3439 of measure, and the precision. Monitoring questions are used to evaluate whether 

3440 management is moving toward, moving away from, or maintaining desired conditions. The 

3441 references to forest plan direction provide a link between the monitoring question and the 

3442 forest plan. The forest plan references may not include all relevant direction, but rather the 

3443 primary direction that is addressed by the monitoring question. Indicators are the specific 

3444 resource measures used in answering the monitoring questions. Frequency of measure is the 

3445 timeframe for collecting data on each indicator. Precision is defined as Class A or B. For Class A, 

3446 mostly quantitative methods are widely accepted with repeatable results and statistical validity. 

3447 Reliability, precision, and accuracy are very good. For Class B, mostly qualitative methods 

3448 include project records, communications, or less formal measurements like walk-through exams 

3449 or informal visitor surveys. Reliability, accuracy, and precision are good, but usually less than 

3450 Class A. The associated evaluation process determines if the observed changes are consistent 

3451 with the Forest Plan and the effectiveness of implementation. Evaluation reports will be 

3452 produced biennially (as per 2012 Rule, 36 CFR 219.12(d)). Not all questions or indicators will be 

3453 reported in the biennial Monitoring Evaluation Report.

3454

3455 Mountain biking along Kettle Crest

3456
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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129

3457 MONITORING AND EVALUATION

3458 Monitoring Component: this provides a monitoring program that evaluates how the on-the3459 ground management is maintaining or making progress toward desired conditions and 

3460 objectives of this plan. The Plan provides the items to be monitored per the monitoring and 

3461 evaluation requirements found at 36 CFR 219.12(k) of the 1982 regulations. Details on 

3462 methodology, data storage, and responsibility are not considered plan components and are 

3463 not included in the plan.

3464 1. Information, science, and unforeseen circumstances continually change over the 

3465 life of a plan. The major mechanism for reacting swiftly and efficiently to new 

3466 information, science, or circumstances is provided through a monitoring program 

3467 for the plan. These include: Monitoring to determine whether plan implementation 

3468 is achieving multiple use objectives;

3469 2. Monitoring to determine the effects of the various resource management activities 

3470 within the plan area on the productivity of the land;

3471 3. Monitoring of the degree to which on-the-ground management is maintaining or 

3472 making progress toward the desired conditions and objectives for the plan; 

3473 4. Adjustment of the monitoring program, as appropriate, to account for 

3474 unanticipated changes in conditions.

3475 The Plan provides for a monitoring program that evaluates how on-the-ground 

3476 management is maintaining or making progress toward the desired conditions and 

3477 objectives of the plan per the monitoring and evaluation described in 36 CFR 219,12 (k) of 

3478 the 1982 Planning Rule. 

3479 These evaluations are an integral part of answering key planning questions such as the 

3480 state of social, economic, and ecological conditions and trends, and the need for an 

3481 amendment or revision. 

3482 Specific monitoring items, such as measuring frequencies, methodologies, precision, and 

3483 reliability are identified in the annual monitoring guide.

3484 Monitoring Questions

3485 Monitoring questions ask whether management in the plan area is maintaining or 

3486 progressing toward desired conditions and meeting objectives. Monitoring questions may 

3487 be designed to pertain directly to desired conditions or to relate to objectives or guidelines. 

3488 Monitoring information in the plan set of documents may be changed or updated as 

3489 appropriate. Such changes and updates require a plan amendment or revision.

3490 Monitoring questions can also identify or enumerate the ties between ecosystem resilience 

3491 and ecosystem services. Ecosystem services are the products of functioning ecosystems 

3492 that benefit people.

3493 Monitoring questions identify specific Plan direction to monitor and evaluate. The 

3494 monitoring questions specify the information that is essential for measuring Plan 

3495 accomplishments and effectiveness. The associated evaluation process determines whether 

3496 the observed changes are consistent with the desired conditions and what adjustments 

3497 may be needed, if any. 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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130

3498 Monitoring identified in this section does not include monitoring conducted in compliance 

3499 with other laws, policies, and site-specific decisions. 

3500 Evaluation

3501 Evaluation reports keep the plan set of documents up to date. There are three types of 

3502 evaluation reports. 

3503 1. Comprehensive − for plan development and revision. The purpose is to reflect any 

3504 substantial changes that have taken place in the conditions and trends since the 

3505 previous comprehensive evaluation report. Current social, economic, and 

3506 ecological conditions and trends are evaluated in this report and are updated at 

3507 least every 5 years. 

3508 2. Evaluations − for plan amendment. Evaluations analyze issues relevant to the 

3509 purposes of the amendment and occur when the plan is amended.

3510 3. Biennial − for evaluation of monitoring information. A biennial evaluation of results 

3511 of monitoring the plan. 

3512 The information gained through monitoring and evaluation may be the catalyst for plan 

3513 revisions or amendments.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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131

3514 FOREST PLAN MONITORING QUESTIONS

3515 Table 37. Monitoring questions

Resource Monitoring Question Reference to Forest Plan Direction Indicator Frequency of 

Measure

Landscape Features and Dynamics

Vegetation MON-VEG-01: To what extent are 

management activities and natural 

disturbance processes trending 

toward desired conditions for 

structure/structural stage and fire 

regime condition class (FRCC), 

increasing resistance and resiliency 

to disturbance factors including 

climate change. This includes 

vegetation size classes, down wood, 

snags.

FW-DC-VEG-02, FW-DC-VEG-04, 

FW-DC-VEG-05, FW-DC-VEG-06, 

FW-DC-VEG-13, FW-DC-VEG-14, 

FW-DC-VEG-16;

FW-OBJ-VEG-01, FW-OBJ-VEG-02

MA-DC-FR-01; MA-DC-GR-01

MON-VEG-01-01: Acres treated to 

meet FW-OBJ-VEG-01 

MON-VEG-01-02: Acres burned 

through prescribed and wild fire

MON-VEG-01-03: Acres of forest 

by structure and vegetation type 

compared to the desired condition

MON-VEG-01-04: Snags and down 

wood by watershed

MON-VEG-01-05: Number of acres 

influenced by insects and disease

Annual

Every 5 years (review 

of FRCC across the 

Forest)

Every 5 years

Every 5 years

Every 5 years

Vegetation MON-VEG-02: Have management 

activities met Plan objectives and 

trended towards desired conditions 

for invasive terrestrial plant species?

FW-DC-VEG-07, FW-DC-VEG-08, 

FW-DC-VEG-09;

FW-OBJ-VEG-02, FW-OBJ-VEG-03;

FW-GDL-VEG-03, FW-GDL-VEG-04, 

FW-GDL-VEG-05, FW-GDL-VEG06

MON-VEG-02-01: Acres of nonnative invasive plants treated

MON-VEG-02-02: Number of sites 

of new non-native invasive plant 

species

Annual

Annual

Vegetation MON-VEG-03: To what extent are 

management activities moving 

hazardous fuels towards desired 

conditions within WUI?

FW-DC-VEG-13, FW-DC-VEG-14, 

FW-DC-VEG-15, FW-DC-VEG-16;

FW-STD-VEG-01

MON-VEG-03-01: Acres of 

hazardous fuel treatments within 

the WUI

Annual

Vegetation MON-VEG-04: To what extent is the 

Forest meeting Forest Plan objectives 

and trending towards desired 

conditions to provide a mix of timber 

products in response to market 

demands?

FW-DC-VEG-03;

FW-OBJ-VEG-01

MON-VEG-04-01: MMBF offered 

and MMBF sold annually

Annual
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

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132

Resource Monitoring Question Reference to Forest Plan Direction Indicator Frequency of 

Measure

Vegetation MON-VEG-05: To what extent is the 

Forest meeting NFMA requirements 

and desired conditions on size of 

harvest openings?

FW-STD-VEG-04 

(1982 Rule requirement 

[219.12(k)(5)(iii)])

MON-VEG-05-01: Number of evenaged regeneration harvest units 

exceeding 40 acres in size and 

category for exceeding

Annual

Vegetation MON-VEG- 06: To what extent are 

regeneration units restocked to trend 

towards vegetation desired 

conditions?

FW-STD-VEG-05 

(Rule requirement [219.12(k)(5)(i)])

MON-VEG- 06-01: On lands 

suitable for timber production, 

percent of acres with regeneration 

harvest that are adequately 

restocked within 5 years of harvest

Annual

Watershed MON-WTS-01: Are management 

actions contributing to improved 

watershed condition class within 

focus, key, and priority watersheds, 

and other watersheds identified for 

restoration?

FW-DC-WR-01, FW-DC-WR-02, FWDC-WR-03, FW-DC-04, FW-DC-WR05, FW-DC-WR-06, FW-DC-WR-07, 

FW-DC-WR-08, FW-DC-WR-16, FWDC-WR-17;

FW-OBJ-WR-03, FW-OBJ-WR-04, 

FW-OBJ-WR-05, FW-OBJ-WR-06, 

FW-OBJ-WR-07, FW-OBJ-WR-08, 

FW-OBJ-WR-09, FW-OBJ-WR-10;

FW-STD-WR-02, FW-STD-WR-03; 

FW-STD-WR-GDL-04;

MA-OBJ-RMA-01, MA-OBJ-RMA-02, 

MA-OBJ-RMA-03;

MA-STD-RMA-04, MA-STD-RMA-05, 

MA-STD-RMA-06, MW-STD-RMA-07, 

MA-STD-RMA-08;

MA-GDL-RMA-02, MA-GDL-RMA-03,

MA-GDL-RMA-04, MA-GDL-RMA-05, 

MA-GDL-RMA-06, MA-GDL-RMA-07

MON-WTS-01-01: Change in 

watershed condition class

Every 5 years

Watershed MON-WTS-02: Are management 

actions reducing road impacts to 

watershed and aquatic habitat 

function and water quality within all 

watersheds across the Forest? Within 

Key, Focus, and Priority Watersheds?

FW-DC-WR-15; FW-OBJ-WR-03, FWOBJ-WR-06, FW-STD-WR-02, FWSTD-WR-03; FW-GDL-WR-05;

MA-DC-RMA-04, MA-DC-RMA-06, 

MA-RMA-07, MA-WR-RMA-08; MAOBJ-RMA-02; MA-GDL-RMA-03, MAGDL-RMA-04, MA-GDL-RMA-05, MAGDL-RMA-06, MA-GDL-RMA-07

MON-WTS-02-01: Miles of roads 

treated that are a high risk to 

watershed and aquatic habitat 

function.

Annual
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133

Resource Monitoring Question Reference to Forest Plan Direction Indicator Frequency of 

Measure

Watershed MON-WTS-03: Are management 

actions improving key riparian 

processes within Riparian 

Management Areas?

MA-DC-RMA-02; 

MA-OBJ-RMA-01, MA-OBJ-RMA-02, 

MA-OBJ-RMA-03;

MA-STD-RMA-01, MA-STD-RMA-04, 

MA-STD-RMA-06, MA-STD-RMA-07

MON-WTR-03-01: Acres or miles 

of watershed restoration activities 

accomplished, by subwatershed 

MON-WTR-03-02: Percent of 

subwatersheds trended towards an 

improved condition.

Annual

Every 5 years (PIBO 

EM-comparison of 

reference conditions, 

WCF

Watershed MON-WTS-04: Are water resources 

and RMA standards, guidelines, and 

best management practices (BMPs) 

being implemented at project sites?

Are standards, guidelines, and BMPs 

effective at achieving desired 

conditions?

All WR and RMA standards and 

guidelines

MON-WTR-04-01: Number of BMP 

evaluations completed and 

identification of BMPs that were 

implemented correctly and 

incorrectly, and identification of 

BMP effectiveness

BMP annual

Watershed MON-WTS-05-01: What is the status 

and trend of water quality?

FW-DC-WR-05, All WR and RMA 

standards and guidelines

MON-WTR-05-01: Miles of statelisted impaired waters, miles of 

waters under an approved TMDL 

and WQIP.

Annual (WADoE 

303(d) list, TMDLs, 

WQIP implementation 

and monitoring.

Aquatic 

Habitat

MON-AQH-01: Are management 

activities across the Forest 

contributing to the viability of riparian 

and wetland-dependent TES and 

surrogate species?

FS-DC-WR-02, FW-DC-WR-03, FWDC-WR-05, FW-DC-WR-12, FW-DCWR-14; 

FW-OBJ-WR-01, FW-OBJ-WR-02, 

FW-OBJ-WR-03, FW-OBJ-WR-04, 

FW-OBJ-WR-05, FW-OBJ-WR-06, 

FW-OBJ-WR-07, FW-OBJ-WR-08, 

FW-OBJ-WR-09, FW-OBJ-WR-10; 

FW-STD-WR-03; FW-GDL-WR-04;

MA-OBJ-RMA-01, MA-OBJ-RMA-02, 

MA-OBJ-RMA-03;

MA-STD-RMA-08

MON-AQH-01-01: PIBO EM, 

updated Aquatic Ecological 

Condition [AEC]), Stream channel 

morphology surveys in 

monumented reaches

MON-AQH-01-02: Acres or miles of 

treatments to improve hydrologic, 

aquatic, and riparian function

Every 5 years (PIBO 

EM, updated Aquatic 

Ecological Condition 

[AEC]), stream 

channel morphology 

surveys), invasive 

species database.

Annual
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134

Resource Monitoring Question Reference to Forest Plan Direction Indicator Frequency of 

Measure

Aquatic 

Habitat

MON-AQH-02: Are management 

actions improving conditions within 

Riparian Management Areas where 

livestock grazing is permitted?

FW-OBJ-WR-07;

MA-DC-RMA-03; MA-STD-RMA-09, 

MA-STD-RMA-10, MA-STD-RMA-11, 

MA-STD-RMA-11; MA-GDL-RMA-09, 

MA-GDL-RMA-10

MON-AQH-02-01: Acres of 

improvement within DMA locations.

MON-AQH-02-02:Allotments 

managed to meet annual grazing 

management indicators

Annual, Every 5 years 

in conjunction with 

MON-WTR-03-02 

above (PIBO EM & R6 stream surveys

Annual (PIBO & 

Forest monitored 

DMAs

Aquatic 

Habitat

MON-AQH-03: Are management 

actions preventing the spread of 

aquatic invasive species?

FW-DC-WR-11;FW-OBJ-WR-01, FWOBJ-WR-02; FW-STD-WR-01; FWGDL-WR-01, FW-GDL-WR-02, FWGDL-WR-03;

MA-GDL-RMA-08

MON-AQH-03-01: Acres of nonnative invasive aquatic habitat 

treated 

MON-AQH-03-02: Number of sites 

of new non-native invasive aquatic 

species

Annual (R6 stream 

WIT);

Annual, Every 5 years 

(PIBO EM)

Soil MON-SOIL-01: To what extent have 

design features prevented 

irreversible damage to soil 

conditions?

FW-DC-SOIL-01, FW-DC-SOIL-02; FWOBJ-SOIL-01; FW-GDL-SOIL-01; FWGDL-REC-02; MA-GDL-RMA-21

MON-SOIL-01-01: Number of 

harvest units surveyed and 

percent that meet the Regional 

Soil Quality Standard, post-harvest 

(FSM, R1 Supplement No. 2500-

99-1)

Annual

Federally 

listed species

MON-FLS-01: To what extent is 

forest management contributing to 

the conservation of federally listed 

species and moving toward habitat 

objectives?

FW-DC-WL-02, FW-DC-WL-03, FW-DCWL-04, FW-DC-WL-05, FW-DC-WL-06, 

FW-DC-WL-07, FW-DC-WL-08;

FW-OBJ-WL-02, FW-OBJ-WL-03;

FW-STD-WL-02, FW-STD-WL-03, FWSTD-WL-04, FW-STD-WL-05, FW-STDWL-06, FW-STD-WL-07, FW-STD-WL08, FW-STD-WL-09, FW-STD-WL-10;

MON-FLS-01-01: Grizzly Bear: 

progress toward achieving and 

maintaining standards for percent 

core area, open motorized road 

density (OMRD) and total 

motorized road density (TMRD) 

within the Recovery Zones (see 

monitoring requirements for the 

Grizzly Bear Access Amendment in 

appendix B) 

Annual
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Chapter 4 – Monitoring

135

Resource Monitoring Question Reference to Forest Plan Direction Indicator Frequency of 

Measure

FW-GDL-WL-04, FW-GDL-WL-05, FWGDL-WL-06, FW-GDL-WL-07, FW-GDLWL-08, FW-GDL-WL-09, FW-GDL-WL10, FW-GDL-WL-11

MON-FLS-01-02: Canada lynx:

changes in lynx habitat as a result 

of moving towards the desired 

conditions for vegetation through 

providing a mosaic of lynx habitat 

with landscape pattern that is 

consistent with the historic range 

of variability

MON-FLS-01-03: Woodland 

caribou: maintenance of seasonal 

habitat components of wellconnected, large blocks of latesuccessional forest at or above 

current levels.

MON-FLS-01-04: Woodland 

caribou: management of 

motorized winter recreation at or 

below current levels so that 

woodland caribou are not 

displaced from suitable habitat 

within the caribou recovery area.

Every 5 years.

Every 5 years.

Annual (caribou 

habitat monitoring 

report)
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Chapter 4 – Monitoring

136

Resource Monitoring Question Reference to Forest Plan Direction Indicator Frequency of 

Measure

MIS/Focal MON-MIS-01: Are habitat trends for 

Management Indicator Species (MIS) 

/Focal consistent with the Desired 

Conditions and objectives?

FW-DC-Veg-05, FW-OBJ-WL-05

FW-STD-WL-01, FW-STD-WL-11, FWGDL-WL-18

MON-MIS/Focal-01-01: Whiteheaded Woodpecker: number of 

acres treated to provide large 

diameter tree habitat and move 

towards desired vegetation 

conditions by providing late-open 

structure

MON-MIS/Focal-01-02: Northern 

goshawk: number of nest surveys 

completed

MON-MIS/FOCAL-01-03: Snag 

habitat: snag densities by size class 

and vegetation type

Annual

Annual

Every 5 years

Wildlife MON-WL-01: Have management 

activities met Plan objectives and 

maintained or improved habitat to 

achieve desired terrestrial habitat 

conditions

FW-DC-WL-02, FW-DC-WL-03, FW-DCWL-04, FW-DC-WL-05, FW-DC-WL-06, 

FW-DC-WL-07, FW-DC-WL-12, FW-DCWL-13;

FW-OBJ-WL-02, FW-OBJ-WL-03, FWOBJ-WL-04, FW-OBJ-WL-05, FW-OBJWL-06;

FW-STD-WL-02, FW-STD-WL-05, FWSTD-WL-06, FW-STD-WL-07, FS-STDWL-08, FW-STD-WL-09, FW-STD-WL11;

FW-GDL-WL-01, FW-GDL-WL-04, FWGDL-WL-05, FW-GDL-WL-06, FW-GDLWL-09, FW-GDL-WL-11, FW-GDL-WL13, FW-GDL-WL-14, FW-GDL-WL-16

MON-WL-01-01: Acres of 

terrestrial habitat restored or 

enhanced. Also see results for 

MON-VEG-01-01 through MONVEG-01-05

Annual
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Chapter 4 – Monitoring

137

Resource Monitoring Question Reference to Forest Plan Direction Indicator Frequency of 

Measure

Social Systems

Access and

Recreation

MON-AR-01: What are the trends in 

visitation forestwide, and are visitors 

satisfied with the facilities, access, 

services, and perception of their 

safety?

FW-DC-AS-01, FW-DC-AS-02, FW-DCAS-03, FW-DC-AS-04, FW-DC-AS-05; 

FW-OBJ-AS-01, FW-OBJ-AS-02, FWOBJ-AS-03; MA-DC-ARS-01, MA-DCARS-02, MA-DC-ARS-03, MA-DC-ARS04, MA-DC-ARS-05, MA-DC-ARS-06; 

MA-OBJ-ARS-01, MA-OBJ-ARS-02

MON-AR-01-01: Visitor use and 

trends in use forestwide

Every 5 years 

(NVUM)

Social and

Economic

MON-SOC-01: Is the cost of 

implementing the Forest Plan 

consistent with that predicted in the 

FEIS?

Rule requirement (219.12(k)(3)) MON-SOC-01-01: Forest annual 

budget

Annual
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Photo courtesy of Nils Larsen
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141

3516 Appendix A – Consistency with Plan Components

3517 As required by NFMA and the planning rule, all projects and activities authorized by the Forest 

3518 Service must be consistent with the plan (16 U.S.C. 1604(i); 36 CFR 219.8(a), (b), and (e)). Projects 

3519 and activities cover all actions under 16 U.S.C. 1604(i). A project or activity must be consistent with 

3520 the plan (36 CFR 219.8(e)) by being consistent with applicable plan components (36 CFR 219.7(a)); 

3521 36 CFR 219.8(a). 

3522 Plans may have other content, such as, background, collaboration strategies, context, existing 

3523 conditions, glossary, introduction, monitoring questions, other referenced information or guidance, 

3524 performance history, performance measures, performance risks, program emphasis, program 

3525 guidance, program priorities, possible actions, roles and contributions, management challenges, or 

3526 strategies, but such other content are not matters to which project consistency is required. Ensuring 

3527 Project or Activity Consistency with the Plan—where a proposed project or activity would not be 

3528 consistent with a plan component the responsible official has the following options:

3529 • To modify the proposal so that the project or activity will be consistent; 

3530 • To reject the proposal; or 

3531 • To amend the plan contemporaneously with the approval of the project or activity so that the 

3532 project or activity is consistent with the plan as amended. The amendment may be limited to 

3533 apply only to the project or activity (36 CFR 219.8(e)).

3534 The following paragraphs describe how a project or activity is consistent with plan components and 

3535 the requirements for documenting consistency. The project must be consistent with all plan 

3536 components; desired conditions, standards and guidelines.

3537 Desired conditions (36 CFR 219.7(a)(2)(i)) — Because of the many types of projects and activities 

3538 that can occur over the life of a plan, it is not likely that a project or activity can maintain or 

3539 contribute to the attainment of all desired conditions. Most projects and activities are developed 

3540 specifically to maintain or move conditions toward one or more of the desired conditions of a plan. 

3541 It should not be expected that each project or activity will contribute to all desired conditions in a 

3542 plan, but usually to one or a subset. However, it should not be expected that in every instance, a 

3543 project could clearly point to a specific desired condition as the reason the project was proposed; 

3544 for example, a powerline right-of-way to a private inholding. There will also be instances when 

3545 negative effects related to a specific desired condition are appropriate, either for long-term 

3546 progress toward that same desired condition, or for progress toward or maintenance of another 

3547 desired condition. It is also important that project consistency with a desired condition be assessed 

3548 at the appropriate scale. For example, if a desired condition addresses watershed functionality at 

3549 the scale of a 5th field watershed, then the contribution of any proposal to that desired condition 

3550 should be considered at that scale. 

3551 To be consistent with the desired conditions of the plan, a project or activity, when assessed at the 

3552 appropriate spatial scale described in the plan, must be designed to meet one or more of the 

3553 following conditions:

3554 1. Maintain or make progress toward one or more of the desired conditions of a plan 

3555 without adversely affecting progress toward, or maintenance of other desired 

3556 conditions, or
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Appendix A – Consistency with Plan Components

142

3557 2. Be neutral with regard to progress toward plan desired conditions, or 

3558 3. Maintain or make progress toward one or more of the desired conditions over the 

3559 long-term, even if the project or activity would adversely affect progress toward, or 

3560 maintenance of, one or more desired conditions in the short-term, or

3561 4. Maintain or make progress toward one or more of the desired conditions over the 

3562 long-term, even if the project or activity would adversely affect progress toward 

3563 other desired conditions in a negligible way over the long-term. 

3564 The project documentation should explain how the project is consistent with desired conditions and 

3565 describe any short-term, or negligible long-term, adverse effects the project may have on the 

3566 maintenance or attainment of any desired condition.

3567 Objectives (36 CFR 219.7(a)(2)(ii)) — A project or activity is consistent with the objectives 

3568 component of the plan if it contributes to or does not prevent the attainment of any applicable 

3569 objectives.

3570 The project documentation should identify any applicable objective(s) to which the project 

3571 contributes and document that the project does not prevent the attainment of any objectives. If 

3572 there are no applicable objectives, the project is consistent with the objectives components of the 

3573 plan, and the project documentation should state that fact. 

3574 Guidelines (36 CFR 219.7(a)(2)(iii))—A project or activity must be consistent with all guidelines 

3575 applicable to the type of project or activity and its location in the plan area. A project or activity can 

3576 be consistent with a guideline in either of two ways—

3577 1. The project or activity is designed exactly in accord with the guideline, or 

3578 2. A project or activity design varies from the exact words of the guideline but is as 

3579 effective in meeting the purpose of the guideline to contribute to the maintenance 

3580 or attainment of relevant desired conditions and objectives.

3581 The project documentation should describe how the project is consistent with the guidelines. When 

3582 the project varies from the exact words of the guideline, the documentation must specifically 

3583 explain how the project design is as effective in contributing to the maintenance or attainment of 

3584 relevant desired conditions and objectives. 

3585 Standards (36 CFR 219.7(a)(2)(v))—A project or activity is consistent with a standard if the project 

3586 or activity is designed in exact accord with the standard. 

3587 The project documentation should confirm that the project is consistent with applicable standards. 

3588 Suitability of areas (36 CFR 219.7(a)(2)(iv))—A project with the purpose of timber production may 

3589 only occur in an area identified as suitable for timber production (16 U.S.C. 1604(k)). The 

3590 documentation for the project should confirm the project area meets the suitability for timber 

3591 production criteria set out in FSH 1909.12 section 61. 

3592 Except for projects with a purpose of timber production, a project or activity can be consistent with 

3593 plan suitability determinations in either of two ways: 

3594 1. The project or activity is a use identified in the plan as generally suitable for the 

3595 location where the project or activity is to occur, or
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Appendix A – Consistency with Plan Components

143

3596 2. The project or activity is not a use identified in the plan as generally suitable for the 

3597 location (the plan is silent on the use or the plan identifies the use as generally not 

3598 suitable), but the responsible official determines that the use to be appropriate for 

3599 that location’s desired conditions and objectives.

3600 The project documentation should describe that the project or activity is either (1) a use for which 

3601 the area is specifically identified in the plan as generally suitable, or (2) not a use for which the area 

3602 is specifically identified in the plan as general suitable, but is nonetheless appropriate for that 

3603 location. 

3604 Special areas (36 CFR 219.7(a)(2)(v))—Where a plan provides plan components specific to a special 

3605 area, a project, or activity must be consistent with those area-specific components. The project 

3606 documentation should describe how the project or activity is consistent with the area-specific 

3607 components of the plan.
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Appendix B – Proposed and Possible Management Actions

145

3608 Appendix B: Proposed and Possible Management 

3609 Actions 

3610 INTRODUCTION 

3611 This appendix describes possible actions that may take place on the Colville National Forest at the 

3612 project or activity-level to help maintain existing conditions or move toward the desired conditions. 

3613 Because the Plan is a strategic document that provides general management guidance, the 

3614 following items include program strategies anticipated during the next 15 years. The list of possible 

3615 actions is not intended to be all-inclusive, nor are they intended to be decisions. They are simply 

projections of what actions may take place in the future. 11 3616

3617 This information is not a commitment to take any action and is not a “proposal” as defined by the 

3618 Council on Environmental Quality regulations for implementing NEPA (40 CFR 1508.23, 42 U.S.C. 

3619 4322(2)C)). Including this information is done under National Forest Management Act of 1976, 16

3620 U.S.C. 1604(f). 

3621 A Plan amendment is not required to change or modify the proposed or possible management 

3622 actions. In accord with the National Forest System Land Management Planning Rule (36 CFR 

3623 219.7(b)), these projections can be updated at any time through an administrative change of the 

3624 Plan.

3625 PROPOSED MANAGEMENT ACTIONS 

3626 The objectives in chapter 2 of the plan represent projects or activities intended to be accomplished 

3627 during the planning period. These are listed in the table below. 

3628 Table B-1. List of proposed management actions (plan objectives)

Category Project/Activity Timeframe to Complete

Soil Stabilize, rehabilitate, or restore natural processes that support 

soil productivity and function on 20 to 30 acres per year.

Within 5 years of plan 

implementation

Vegetation Initiate active management activities on 6 to 12 thousand 

acres per year to move structure toward desired conditions at 

landscape scales in order to have landscapes dominated by 

Fire Regime Condition Class I, with the remainder in Fire 

Regime Condition Class II trending toward Fire Regime 

Condition Class I.

Over the next 15 years

Vegetation Actively restore an annual average of 50 acres of native 

vegetation consistent with site capability and integrated 

resource management objectives. 

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

Vegetation Protect ecosystems from the impacts of invasive plants 

through an integrated approach that emphasizes prevention, 

early detection, and early treatment. Control an average 

2,000 acres per year.

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

Vegetation Increase restoration so that 5 to 10 acres of special and 

unique habitats are treated annually. 

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

Water 

Resources

Implement aquatic invasive species prevention measures at all 

developed recreation sites providing direct and/or indirect 

access to water bodies, such as boat ramps, campgrounds, 

Within the next 15 years

 11 The USDA Forest Service Handbook (FSH) 1909.12, section 11.2 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix B – Proposed and Possible Management Actions

146

Category Project/Activity Timeframe to Complete

and day use areas that provide portal zones for hand-carried 

watercraft. 

Water 

Resources

Implement aquatic invasive species control and eradication at 

10 sites where such invasions have become established and 

prevent attainment of listed fish recovery plan goals and/or 

effects to social, economic, and ecological systems are 

determined to be unacceptable.

Within the next 15 years

Water 

Resources

Decrease sediment delivery from management activities on 

1,000 acres including but not limited to roads, livestock, illegal 

off-highway vehicle use, vegetation management, and 

dispersed and developed campsites. 

Within the next 15 years

Water 

Resources

Restore aquatic organism passage for all life stages of native 

species at 45 road/stream crossings and man-made instream 

structures such as water diversions and dams outside of key 

watersheds. 

Within 15 years

Water 

Resources

Management in key watersheds focuses on restoration or 

preservation of watershed, aquatic, and riparian function and 

recovery of threatened and endangered species. Improve 

watershed condition class in key watersheds that are a priority 

for restoration. 

Within 15 years of forest 

plan implementation

Water 

Resources

Reduce road-hydrologic connectivity and sediment delivery on 

roads through storm damage risk reduction treatments, full 

hydrologic decommissioning, and other accepted treatment 

measures on 78 miles of hydrologically connected road.

Within 15 years of forest 

plan implementation

Water 

Resources

Improve hydrologic and aquatic function through range 

infrastructure improvements, including riparian fencing, 

movement and improvement of watering troughs, and other 

acceptable treatments on 250 acres.

Within 15 years of forest 

plan implementation

Water 

Resources

Move upland vegetation within riparian management areas in 

key watersheds toward historic range of variability on 1,200 

acres.

within 15 years of forest 

plan implementation

Water 

Resources

Restore hydrologic, geomorphic, and riparian process and 

function on 76 miles of stream through activities including 

streambank stabilization, restoration of lateral and vertical 

hydrologic connectivity and improvement of stream channel 

and floodplain function.

Within 15 years of forest 

plan implementation

Water 

Resources

Implement the watershed condition framework through 

completion of essential projects outlined in watershed action 

plans in existing focus and priority watersheds to improve 

watershed condition class. 

Over 15 years

Wildlife 

Habitats

Maintain the wildlife-resistant garbage storage devices 

installed in all developed campgrounds on the Colville National 

Forest, as needed. Install at least 15 wildlife resistant food 

storage lockers at developed campgrounds or heavily-used 

dispersed campsites. 

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

Wildlife 

Habitats

Restore an average of 100 acres/year of snowshoe hare 

and/or lynx habitat within the lynx core area on the Kettle 

Crest.

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

Wildlife 

Habitats

Maintain or restore grizzly bear seasonal habitats on 900 

acres.

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

Wildlife 

Habitats

Restore western hemlock/western redcedar vegetation types 

within late-successional forest habitats for focal wildlife 

species on 1400 acres. 

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation
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Appendix B – Proposed and Possible Management Actions

147

Category Project/Activity Timeframe to Complete

Wildlife 

Habitats

Restore or move towards restoration of late and old structure 

ponderosa pine forest habitat on 500 acres per year. 

Over the next 15 years

Wildlife 

Habitats

Restore (i.e., application of prescribed fire, invasive plant 

management, etc.) habitat on 1,000 acres of deer and elk 

winter range.

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

National Forest 

Access System

Designate 45 miles of motorized mixed use roads across the 

Forest that would connect with existing motorized mixed use 

roads identified on the Motor Vehicle Use Map to create loop 

riding opportunities, connect camping areas, or connect 

communities with the Forest.

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

National Forest

Access System

Improve drainage, water crossing and trail layout on 5% of the 

Forest’s trail system designed for mountain bikes, motorized 

use, and pack stock.

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

National Forest 

Access System

Maintain at least 20 percent of the Forest’s motorized and nonmotorized trail system.

Annually

Livestock 

Grazing

Recondition or reconstruct an average of one to four percent 

of the existing range infrastructure on National Forest System 

lands annually. 

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

Renewable 

Forest 

Products

As a result of vegetation treatments implemented over 6,000 

to 12,000 acres, estimated volume of merchantable forest 

products, measured at a Forest scale, to be average of 62 

million board feet per year. 

Over the next 15 years

Administrative 

and Recreation 

Sites

Provide a minimum of one large (100+ person capacity) group 

site for day or overnight use in a location where there is a 

demonstrated need identified through public demand.

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

Administrative 

and Recreation 

Sites

Increase parking capacity at one Sno-Park and one trailhead 

where use exceeds designed parking lot capacity on more 

than 25 percent of weekends.

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

Nationally 

Designated 

Trails

Relocate 10 to 15 percent of the trail miles currently located on 

roads into a non-motorized trail setting.

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

Research 

Natural Areas

Complete the establishment record on all proposed research 

natural areas.

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

Research 

Natural Areas

Treat populations of invasive, non-native species on an 

average of 10 acres annually.

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

Riparian 

Management 

Areas

Restore riparian processes and balance need for occupancy 

and access to water at 50 dispersed and developed recreation 

sites, through education, enforcement, and engineering where 

recreational use results in bank damage, reduction in water 

quality, and/ or a reduction in stream shade.

Over the next 15 years

Riparian 

Management 

Areas

Restore hydrologic and riparian habitat function within RMAs 

in non-key watersheds by reducing road-related impacts on 30 

miles of road. 

Within 15 years

Riparian 

Management 

Areas

Move upland vegetation within riparian management areas 

outside of key watersheds toward historic range of variability 

on 500 acres. 

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation

Scenic Byways Move 10 percent of the foreground and middle ground seen 

areas of National Scenic Byways toward meeting scenic 

integrity objectives. 

Within 15 years of plan 

implementation
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix B – Proposed and Possible Management Actions

148

3629 POSSIBLE MANAGEMENT ACTIONS

3630 Chapters 2 and 3 of the plan describe some of the possible management actions for achieving 

3631 desired conditions and objectives. These are summarized in the following sections.

3632 TERRESTRIAL ECOSYSTEMS

3633 Vegetation

3634 Vegetation management includes those activities that actively move vegetation towards desired 

3635 conditions. Vegetation management might include activities that would maintain or increase 

3636 representation of early seral, shade-intolerant, drought and fire tolerant, insect/disease resistant 

3637 species dominance types. Activities could treat areas to maintain or improve forest resilience, 

3638 natural diversity, and productivity, and to reduce negative impacts of non-native organisms over the 

3639 life of the Plan. Specifically, the following types of actions are likely to occur: 

3640 • Planting blister rust resistant white pine; 

3641 • Pruning of white pine to reduce vulnerability to blister rust fungus;

3642 • Maintenance or restoration of rare plant habitat and special and unique natural communities; 

3643 • Planting shade-intolerant, fire-adapted, drought resistant species; 

3644 • Managing stands to retain or move towards old growth; 

3645 • Treating insects and disease using integrated pest management techniques. 

3646 Fire Management 

3647 Actions related to treatment of fuels will include the following: 

3648 • Planned ignitions; 

3649 • Mechanical treatments, including commercial timber sales and noncommercial treatments; 

3650 and 

3651 • Unplanned ignitions. 

3652 Forest Products

3653 Actions include:

3654 • Use timber production and tree cutting to achieve vegetation desired conditions and 

3655 contribute to the local and regional economy;

3656 • Intermediate timber harvest (commercial thinning, improvement cutting, etc.); 

3657 • Regeneration harvest with treatments that are even-age in nature (clearcut, or two-age 

3658 regeneration), or uneven-age (group selection or single tree selection); and 

3659 • Salvage of dead or dying timber. 

3660 • Gathering of firewood, huckleberries, and other special forest products. 

3661 • Offer up to the predicted wood sale quantity (PWSQ) an average of 62 million board feet per 

3662 year. The PWSQ represents the amount of timber, including special forest products such as 

3663 firewood, that may be sold from lands suitable for timber production. 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix B – Proposed and Possible Management Actions

149

3664 Vegetation treatments as modelled for determination of effects:

3665 Table B-2 shows what treatments were proposed and included by management area for modelling 

3666 vegetation changes related to the revised land management plan. If a treatment is not included 

3667 within a management area, the treatment is not prohibited, but was not considered as a primary 

3668 management tool.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix B – Proposed and Possible Management Actions

150

3669 Table B-2 – Modelled vegetation treatments by management area and vegetation type 

Fire Stand Improvement Final Harvest

Management Area (Model 

Zone)

Vegetation Type

Prescribed Fire (Light)Prescribed Fire (Mixed)Prescribed Fire (Severe)PCTThinning Small and MediumPartial Harvest PolesPartial Harvest SmallPartial Harvest MediumVariable Density ThinningShelterwood w/ ReservesRegeneration Small and MediumSalvage

Focused & General Restoration Douglas-fir dry X X X X X

Northern Rocky Mountain mixed conifer X X

Western redcedar / Western hemlock

Subalpine fir / Lodgepole pine X X

Spruce / Subalpine fir

Wilderness / Other Douglas-fir dry X

Northern Rocky Mountain mixed conifer

Western redcedar / Western hemlock

Subalpine fir / Lodgepole pine X

Spruce / Subalpine fir
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix B – Proposed and Possible Management Actions

151

3670 Invasive Species 

3671 • Use an array of tools (chemical, biological, mechanical, and cultural) to control or eradicate 

3672 invasive species. 

3673 • Provide education and outreach programs designed to increase awareness of invasive species. 

3674 • Implement preventative measures (e.g., pre- and post-work equipment sanitation, requiring 

3675 certified weed-free seed and hay) through permitting, contracting, and other forest 

3676 administrative processes. 

3677 • Collaborate with other agencies and entities to replace nonnative aquatic species with 

3678 natives. 

3679 • Cooperate with Washington State agencies, local governments and other organizations to 

3680 support a successful invasive species management program. 

3681 Wildlife

3682 Wildlife habitat management involves establishing and maintaining the vegetation diversity 

3683 necessary to provide food, cover, and security for all wildlife species native to the Forest in 

3684 cooperation with federal, state, and other organizations. Activities might include: 

3685 • Maintenance or restoration of wildlife habitat (e.g., burning); 

3686 • Site-specific improvement of motorized access densities and secure core habitat parameters 

3687 within Grizzly Bear Management subunits; 

3688 AQUATIC AND RIPARIAN ECOSYSTEMS

3689 Management activities include both passive and active restoration to maintain and improve habitat 

3690 and ecological conditions capable of supporting ground & surface hydrologic function and self3691 sustaining populations of native riparian-dependent plant and animal species. Passive restoration is 

3692 the broad-scale natural recovery of the aquatic ecosystem and includes implementation of best 

3693 management practices, key watersheds and designation of riparian management areas. Active 

3694 restoration includes management activities with the specific goal of restoring the processes that 

3695 improve aquatic and riparian habitat function. 

3696 Activities may include: 

3697 • Active stream restoration actions at selected stream reaches to improve degraded conditions 

3698 and stream channel stability (e.g., adding large woody debris to streams); 

3699 • Planting riparian vegetation for bank stability and shade; 

3700 • Treating invasive terrestrial plant species in riparian areas to improve riparian community 

3701 structure; 

3702 • Removal, reconstruction, or improved maintenance of roads located in riparian areas to 

3703 improve watershed health and reduce sediment delivery to the aquatic ecosystem; 

3704 • Treating upland roads to reduce water interception; 

3705 • Culvert replacement or removal to improve passage for native species, where appropriate; 

3706 • Culvert replacement or removal to improve hydrologic function and sediment transport; and

3707 • Riparian area fencing.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix B – Proposed and Possible Management Actions

152

3708 SOCIAL SYSTEMS

3709 Access and Recreation 

3710 Recreation management includes those activities that assist in providing a range of recreation 

3711 opportunities across the Forest. Specifically, the following types of actions are likely to occur: 

3712 • Trail construction, reconstruction, maintenance, and relocation; 

3713 • Construction of facilities such as parking areas, toilets, trailheads, information kiosks, fishing 

3714 access, and boating access points; 

3715 • Maintain and upgrade facilities such as campgrounds, picnic areas, toilets, and parking lots; 

3716 • Maintain and modify dispersed recreation sites to reduce or eliminate resource concerns; 

3717 • Implement the Scenery Management System across the Forest; 

3718 • Maintain (e.g., clearing, grading, brushing, providing functioning water structures) and 

3719 improve (e.g., realignment, resurface, bridges and water structures) existing road and trail 

3720 system and construct new roads and trails when needed; 

3721 • Complete subpart C travel management planning (36 CFR 212). Identify areas and trails for 

3722 motorized and non-motorized winter uses on the Forest; 

3723 • Implement measures (e.g., education, signage, law enforcement, seasonal road closures) to 

3724 discourage encroachment of motorized vehicles into non-motorized areas.

3725 • Use educational techniques (e.g., brochures, signs) to help users understand motorized and 

3726 non-motorized use etiquette.

3727 • Provide special use permits for commercial recreation opportunities (e.g., resorts, ski areas, 

3728 outfitter and guides, special events); 

3729 • Administrative Facilities 

3730 • Annual maintenance; 

3731 • Deferred maintenance; 

3732 • Improvements to meet health and safety requirements; 

3733 • Improvements to reduce operation and maintenance costs (increase energy efficiency); 

3734 • Emergency repairs caused by natural events; and 

3735 • Building decommissioning. 

3736 Air Quality

3737 The main management action taken by the Forest that could affect air quality is fire. Planned 

3738 ignitions will follow all Washington State smoke regulations to reduce the impact of smoke.

3739 Heritage Resources

3740 Heritage resources activities will likely consist of:

3741 • Conducting surveys to identify significant sites, and follow-up actions necessary to protect, 

3742 stabilize, or salvage sites;

3743 • Identifying and evaluating heritage resources for the National Register of Historic Places;
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix B – Proposed and Possible Management Actions

153

3744 • Stabilizing, rehabilitating, restoring, and caring for heritage resources;

3745 • Conducting deferred maintenance to historic facilities;

3746 • Promoting heritage values through public education, outreach, and interpretative programs; 

3747 and

3748 • Conducting scientific and historic research on heritage.

3749 American Indian Rights and Interests

3750 Activities will likely consist of:

3751 • Ongoing government-to-government and staff consultation for each federally recognized tribe 

3752 with historical or treaty interests in forest land, through a cooperatively established 

3753 communication policy.

3754 • Develop and maintain effective working relationships and recognize American Indian tribal 

3755 viewpoints. 

3756 Lands and Special Uses

3757 Lands program actions are likely to include: 

3758 • Maintaining landlines and actions associated with adjusting NFS ownership through 

3759 purchases, exchanges, or other conveyances; 

3760 • Permitting uses (e.g., easements), structures (e.g., communication towers), outfitter/guides, 

3761 and special events; 

3762 • Conveyance; 

3763 • Land exchange; and 

3764 • Right-of-way acquisition. 

3765 Livestock Grazing

3766 Management activities relating to livestock grazing on the national forest can include building 

3767 fences, constructing and maintaining water developments, treating noxious weeds, implementing 

3768 deferred or rest-rotation grazing systems, and improving livestock distribution. Activities will likely 

3769 consist of: 

3770 • Complete environmental analysis and assess and update allotment management plans to 

3771 improve allotment management and protect and manage the resources present within them. 

3772 • Consider grazing in the context of timing, intensity, and duration of use and adjust accordingly 

3773 to respond to changing resource conditions. 

3774 • Work with permittees, the State, tribes, and other organizations to maintain or improve 

3775 rangeland conditions. 

3776 • Develop, re-develop and maintain range developments (e.g., fence, corrals and water 

3777 developments). 
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix B – Proposed and Possible Management Actions

154

3778 Minerals and Energy

3779 Management activities relating to mineral activities can include requiring prior authorization for 

3780 collection of saleable minerals, and prior authorization for exploration and development of saleable 

3781 minerals. Activities will likely consist of: 

3782 • Mineral materials development; 

3783 • Abandoned mine reclamation; and 

3784 • Locatable and leasable minerals exploration and development. 

3785 Road Construction

3786 • Road reconstruction (includes work to implement Best Management Practices [BMP] work);

3787 • Temporary road construction;

3788 • Annual road maintenance;

3789 • Deferred road maintenance;

3790 • Drainage structure repair and replacement;

3791 • Road decommissioning; and

3792 • Emergency repairs caused by natural events.

3793 Scenery

3794 Scenery management tools and techniques are mostly accomplished through maintenance, 

3795 restoration, or enhancement of the natural landscape. This is done through use of the vegetation,

3796 wildlife and the aquatic and riparian tools and techniques described above. 

3797 Social and Economic Systems 

3798 • Contribute to and support local jobs and labor income within the counties surrounding the 

3799 forest through anticipated outputs associated with management activities. 

3800 • Coordinate management plans and activities with state, local and tribal governments.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix C – Sensitive Species Summary

155

3801 Appendix C: Sensitive Species Summary

3802 PLANTS

3803 *FEDERAL STATUS (USDI FWS 2011)

3804 +Washington Natural Heritage Program State Rank (NatureServe 2013)

3805 Washington State rank (2013) characterizes the relative rarity or endangerment within the state of 

3806 Washington. Factors including, but not limited to, number of known occurrences are considered 

3807 when assigning a rank. Two codes together represent an inexact range (e.g., S1S2) or different ranks 

3808 for breeding and non-breeding populations (e.g., S1B, S3N).Values and their definitions:

3809 • S1 = Critically imperiled in the state because of extreme rarity or other factors making it 

3810 especially vulnerable to extirpation from the state. (Typically 5 or fewer occurrences or very 

3811 few remaining individuals or acres.)

3812 • S2 = Imperiled in the state because of rarity or other factors making it very vulnerable to 

3813 extirpation from the state. (Typically 6 to 20 occurrences or few remaining individuals or 

3814 acres.)

3815 • S3 = Rare or uncommon in the state. (Typically 21 to 100 occurrences)

3816 • SNR = Not yet ranked. Sufficient time and effort have not yet been devoted to ranking of 

3817 this taxon.

3818 Table C-1. Sensitive plants

Scientific Name (Common Name) Habitat Group

Federal* and 

WNHP State 

Rank+

Antennaria corymbosa (flat-top pussytoes) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S1

Antennaria parvifolia (Nuttall's pussytoes) Dry meadows, open dry forests, shrub 

steppe

S2

Astragalus microcystis (least bladdery milkvetch)

Dry meadows, open dry forests, shrub 

steppe

S2

Botrychium ascendens (upward-lobed 

moonwort)

Dry meadows, open dry forests, shrub 

steppe 

S2

Botrychium crenulatum (crenulate 

moonwort)

Moist openings, wet forests S3

Botrychium hesperium (western moonwort) Dry meadows, open dry forests, shrub 

steppe

S1

Botrychium lineare (slender moonwort) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S1

Botrychium paradoxum (twin-spiked 

moonwort)

Dry meadows, open dry forests, shrub 

steppe 

S2

Botrychium pedunculosum (stalked 

moonwort)

Dry meadows, open dry forests, shrub 

steppe 

S2

Carex capillaris (hair-like sedge) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S1

Carex comosa (bristly sedge) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S2
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix C – Sensitive Species Summary

156

Scientific Name (Common Name) Habitat Group

Federal* and 

WNHP State 

Rank+

Carex magellanica ssp. irrigua (poor sedge) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S2S3

Carex proposita (Smoky Mountain sedge) Alpine and subalpine meadows, fellfields, 

parklands

S2

Carex rostrata (beaked sedge) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S1

Carex tenera (quill sedge) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S1

Cicuta bulbifera (bulb-bearing waterhemlock)

Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S2

Cryptogramma stelleri (Steller's rockbrake) Cliffs, talus, rock outcrops S1S2

Cypripedium parviflorum (yellow lady's 

slipper)

Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S2

Dryas drummondii var. drummondii

(Drummond's mountain-avens)

Cliffs, talus, rock outcrops S2

Dryopteris cristata (crested woodfern) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S2

Eriophorum viridicarinatum (green-keeled 

cottongrass)

Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S2

Eurybia merita (arctic aster) Alpine and subalpine meadows, fellfields, 

parklands

S1S2

Gaultheria hispidula (creeping snowberry) Alpine and subalpine meadows, fellfields, 

parklands

S2

Geum rivale (water avens) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S2S3

Lomatium sandbergii (Sandberg's desertparsley)

Alpine and subalpine meadows, fellfields, 

parklands

S1

Lycopodium dendroideum (treelike 

clubmoss)

Moist openings, wet forests S2

Muhlenbergia glomerata (spiked muhly) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S1S2

Ophioglossum pusillum (northern 

adderstongue)

Moist openings, wet forests S1S2

Pinus albicaulis (whitebark pine)* Alpine and subalpine meadows, fellfields, 

parklands

S and *Federal 

Candidate

Platanthera obtusata (small northern bogorchid)

Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S2

Ribes oxyacanthoides ssp. irriguum (Idaho 

gooseberry)

Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S2

Salix candida (hoary willow) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S1

Salix maccalliana (McCall's willow) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S1

Salix pseudomonticola (false mountain 

willow)

Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S1

Sanicula marilandica (black snake-root) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S2

Sisyrinchium montanum (strict blue-eyed 

grass)

Moist openings, wet forests S1

Spartina pectinata (prairie cordgrass) Wetlands, moist meadows, riparian S2

Viola renifolia (kidney-leaved violet) Moist openings, wet forests S2

3819
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix C – Sensitive Species Summary

157

3820 TERRESTRIAL WILDLIFE

Relationship between Region 6 Sensitive Species 12 and Region 6 Surrogate Species 13 3821 used in the 

3822 Colville National Forest Wildlife Evaluation Report. Status definitions:

3823 • D = documented 

3824 • S = suspected to occur on Forest

3825 Table C-2. Terrestrial wildlife

Sensitive Species Habitat Group Status on 

Forest Surrogate Species

Northern Goshawk Medium-large trees/all forest 

communities

D Northern Goshawk

Peregrine Falcon Habitat generalist/Cliff D Peregrine Falcon

Common Loon Wetland/Marsh/Open water D Eared Grebe

Sandhill Crane Wetland/Marsh/Wet Meadow D Wilson’s Snipe

Bald Eagle Riparian/large tree D Bald Eagle

Harlequin Duck Riparian/large tree D Harlequin Duck

Lewis’s Woodpecker Open forest/post-fire S Lewis’s Woodpecker, 

Three-toed Woodpecker

Whiteheaded 

Woodpecker

Medium-large trees/dry forest D Whiteheaded 

Woodpecker

Great Gray Owl Forest Mosaic/all Forest Communities D Northern Goshawk

Northern Leopard Frog Riparian/Pond/Small Lake/Backwater S Columbia Spotted Frog

Gray Wolf Habitat Generalist D Wolverine, Grizzly Bear

Wolverine Habitat Generalist D Wolverine, Grizzly Bear

Townsend’s Bigeared 

Bat

Chambers/caves D Townsend’s Bigeared Bat

Little Brown Myotis Open Forest/Woodland/

Grass/Shrub/Caves

D Fringed Myotis, Pallid 

Bat, Townsend’s 

Bigeared Bat

Bighorn Sheep Woodland/Grass/Shrub D Bighorn Sheep

Pacific Fisher Medium-large trees/cool-moist forest 

or all forest communities

D Pileated Woodpecker, 

American Marten, 

Northern Goshawk, 

Woodland Caribou

Pygmy Shrew Boreal Forest D Canada Lynx, Northern 

Bog Lemming

3826

 12 R6 Sensitive Species List as of 15 July 2015 (USFS 2015) 13 R6 Surrogate Species (formerly Focal Species) for Species Viability Assessments (USFS 2010)
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix C – Sensitive Species Summary

158

3827 FISH

3828 Table C-3. Fish

Species Status

Westslope Cutthroat Species of interest (state candidate, Forest Service Region 6 sensitive)

Redband/rainbow trout Species of interest (Forest Service Region 6 sensitive)

Pygmy Whitefish Species of interest (state and Forest Service Region 6 sensitive)

Umatilla dace Forest Service Region 6 sensitive
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix D. Scenic Integrity Objectives 

159

3829 Appendix D: Scenic Integrity Objectives 

3830 High quality scenery, especially scenery with natural-appearing landscapes, enhanced people’s lives and 

3831 benefits society. The Scenery Management System presents a vocabulary for managing scenery and a 

3832 systematic approach for determining the relative value and importance of scenery in a national forest. 

3833 Ecosystems provide the environmental context for this scenery management system. The system is to be 

3834 used in the context of ecosystem management to inventory and analyze scenery in a national forest, to 

3835 assist in the establishment of overall resource goals and objectives, to monitor the scenic resource, and 

3836 to ensure high-quality scenery for future generations. Scenery management is not static, it is as dynamic 

3837 as the work in which we live.

3838 Viewing natural features is one of the primary activities that draws visitors to national forest. The forests 

3839 in the planning area are known for many outstanding scenic features including breathtaking lakes and 

3840 rivers, picturesque mountain ranges and geological features, and spectacular displays of flowers in the 

3841 spring and summer and colorful foliage in the fall. Cultural landscapes are also important such as viewing 

3842 old homesteads, mining operations, and Civilian Conservation Corps craftsmanship. Roads, trails, 

3843 waterways, and vista points are the primary avenues for viewing scenery.

3844 The Scenery Management System provides an overall framework for the inventory, analysis and 

3845 management of scenery. The system applies to every acre of national forest and national grassland 

3846 administered by the Forest Service and to all Forest Service activities, including timber harvesting, road 

3847 building, stream improvements, special use developments, utility line construction, recreation 

3848 developments, and fuels management. Managing the scenic character of the forest is integral to all 

3849 forest activities. In some locations, scenic character has been degraded by past practices and 

3850 rehabilitation is needed. In other locations, enhancements such as interpretive facilities can improve the 

3851 experiential setting. The Scenery Management System is utilized to support and complement all 

3852 management activities.

3853 The following table displays the six scenic integrity objectives and conditions associated with each level 

3854 (how people perceive them). Table D-1. Scenic Integrity and Condition. (USDA FS, 1995, Landscape 

3855 Aesthetics, p A-1)

3856 Table D-1. Scenic integrity objective definitions

Scenic Integrity

Objective (SIO)

Definition

Very High Landscape is intact with only minor changes from the valued landscape character 

associated with significant scenic landscapes. This SIO is typically (but not exclusively) 

associated with specially designated areas such as wilderness or other designations 

that imply the landscape is natural appearing and only ecological changes occur.

High Management activities are unnoticed and the landscape character appears unaltered.

Moderate Management activities are noticeable but are subordinate to the landscape character. 

The landscape appears Slightly altered

Low Management activities are evident and sometimes dominate the landscape character 

but are designed to blend with surroundings by repeating line, form, color, texture of 

landscape character attributes. The landscape appears altered. 

Very Low Management activities create a “heavily altered landscape.” Changes may strongly 

dominate the landscape. 

Unacceptably Low (Not a 

management objective, 

used for inventory only)

Management activities create an extremely altered landscape. Deviations are extremely 

dominant and borrow little if any form, line, color, texture, pattern or scale from the 

landscape character. Landscapes at this level of integrity need rehabilitation.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix D – Scenic Integrity Objectives

160

3857 The Colville National Forest has a full range of scenic integrity levels from Very High, to High, Moderate, 

3858 Low and Very Low; Wilderness and Recommended Wilderness is Very High.
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix D. Scenic Integrity Objectives 

161

3859

3860 Figure D-1. Colville National Forest scenic integrity objectives
DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix D – Scenic Integrity Objectives

162

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DRAFT Colville NF Proposed Land and Resource Management Plan

Appendix E. Suitable Uses by Management Area 

163

3861 Appendix E: Suitable Uses by Management Area

3862 Table E-1. Suitable uses by management area

Suitable Uses Forest Plan Management Areas

(May Authorize = Y, May Not Authorize = X)

Administrative & 

Recreation Sites

Back countryBack country

Motorized

Focused 

Restoration

General 

Restoration

Nationally 

Designated Trails

Research Natural 

Areas

Riparian 

Management 

Areas

Scenic Byways

Special Interest 

Area

Wild and Scenic 

Rivers

Wilderness 

–

Congressionally 

Designated

Wilderness 

–

Recommended

Facilities, administrative Y Y Y Y Y Y Y and X Y Y Y Y X X

Facilities, developed recreation Y Y Y Y Y Y X Y Y Y X X

Federal Energy Regulation Commission licenses or 

permits

X X X Y Y X X X X Y X X X

Prescribed Fire Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Wildfire, use of unplanned ignition Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Forest products - commercial use (non-timber harvest) X Y Y Y Y X X Y Y Y X X X

Forest products - firewood, commercial use Y Y Y Y Y X X Y Y Y X X X

Forest products - firewood, permitted personal use Y Y Y Y Y Y X X Y Y X X X

Forest products, personal use Y Y Y Y Y Y X Y Y Y X Y Y

Grazing, permitted Y and X Y Y Y Y Y Y and X Y Y Y Y Y and X Y 

Infrastructure, above ground infrastructure associated 

with special use permits, such as communication sites, 

energy developments, and/or utility lines.

Y Y Y Y Y Y and X Y and X X X Y X X

Mechanized recreational use Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y X Y and X

Minerals, leasable – surface occupancy X Y Y Y Y X X X X Y X X

Minerals, locatable X Y Y Y Y X X Y Y Y and X Y

Minerals, saleable X Y Y Y Y X X X X Y X X X
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Appendix E – Suitable Uses by Management Area

164

Suitable Uses Forest Plan Management Areas

(May Authorize = Y, May Not Authorize = X)

Administrative & 

Recreation Sites

Back countryBack country

Motorized

Focused 

Restoration

General 

Restoration

Nationally 

Designated Trails

Research Natural 

Areas

Riparian 

Management 

Areas

Scenic Byways

Special Interest 

Area

Wild and Scenic 

Rivers

Wilderness 

–

Congressionally 

Designated

Wilderness 

–

Recommended

Motorized recreational use, summer, trails or play 

areas

Y and X X Y Y Y X X Y and X Y Y and X X X

Motorized recreational use, winter, trails or crosscountryY X Y Y Y X X Y Y Y and X X X

Non-motorized recreational use, summer Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Non-motorized recreational use, winter Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y Y

Road construction, permanent Y X X Y Y Y and X X Y Y Y and X X X

Road construction, temporary Y X X Y Y Y and X X Y Y Y and X X X

Special use permits, recreational Y Y Y Y Y Y X Y Y Y Y Y

Timber harvest as a tool Y Y Y Y Y Y X Y Y Y X X

Timber harvest, scheduled production X X X Y Y X X X Y Y and X X X X

Utility corridors X X Y Y Y X X Y Y Y X X

3863