Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-755

ANALYSIS TOPICS: SOCIOCULTURAL RESOURCES 

Scenic Resources 

Affected Environment 

Regulatory Framework 

Scenic views from nearly all lands in the Merced River corridor are distinct. Scenic quality is a core 

value embedded in the National Park Service (NPS) Organic Act of 1916: 

“Federal areas known as national parks . . . which purpose is to conserve the scenery and the natural 

and historic objects and the wild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such 

manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.” 

(NPS Organic Act, 16 USC 1) 

The Yosemite Land Grant of 1864 legislation granted the Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove of 

Big Trees from the federal government to the State of California “upon the express conditions that the 

premises shall be held for public use, resort, and recreation; inalienable for all time.” This was the first 

time land in the United States was preserved for its scenic values and for public benefit. 

The visual landscape factored prominently in the decision to designate Yosemite as a national park and 

is one of the primary resources that the NPS is charged with protecting. As such, the NPS has taken the 

approach of analyzing potential impacts on visual resources by considering these inherent resources to 

be self-evidently valuable, and that the crux of any analysis should focus on how visitors to the park 

experience these resources. Following this principle, the NPS established policies and regulations, as 

described above, to protect visual resources, including efforts to characterize and catalog important 

scenic landscapes. The NPS has further developed these policies by identifying important scenic 

resources and establishing a framework for protecting them, including restrictions on development of 

human-made structures in visually important areas. Today, although structures and infrastructure 

intrude into some scenic views from the main stem Merced River and South Fork Merced River, or 

views to the river (such as the roads near the river in Yosemite Valley), the area is largely pristine and 

human-made features do not dominate, even in the landscapes where they are visible. 

The 1980 Yosemite General Management Plan specifies the following management objectives to 

preserve, protect, and restore scenic resources: 

 Identify the major scenic resources and the places from which they are viewed. 

 Provide for the preservation or protection of existing scenic resource and viewing stations. 

 Provide for historic views through vista clearing. 

 Permit only those levels and types of use that are compatible with the preservation or 

protection of the scenic resources and with the quality of the viewing experience. 
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Tiered from the Yosemite General Management Plan, the final Scenic Vista Management Plan for 

Yosemite National Park (Scenic Vista Management Plan) (NPS 2011d) provides a systematic program 

for documenting, protecting, and reestablishing important viewpoints and vistas outside of designated 

Wilderness, consistent with the natural processes and human influence that created them. 

The 2005 A Sense of Place, Design Guidelines for Yosemite Valley provide a framework for describing 

appropriateness of architectural and landscape character of new buildings, site work, and alterations. 

In general, the goals of the Design Guidelines include: 

 Retention of natural site character, including setting, materials, and ecological processes. 

 Design new buildings and facilities to blend with the natural environment, emphasizing nonintrusive design. They are sensitive to the environmental capacity of the site to absorb 

modifications. Facilities fit in with their sites rather than dominate them. Buildings are 

subordinate to the environment. 

 Compatibility of structures and facilities with the cultural context and character in which they 

are located and protection of cultural integrity. 

 Coordination and integration of the design of individual structures with those of the site plan 

as a whole. 

 Enhancement of unifying architectural and landscape themes and elements within defined 

areas throughout Yosemite Valley. 

 Emphasis on simplicity and restraint in design and respect for past building character, 

traditions, and practices. 

 Recognition of the principles of rustic design used by previous designers, identification of 

those who retain validity today, and contemporary interpretation of those principles. 

The detailed guidelines sections of A Sense of Place provide direction as to which design strategies and 

themes may be suitable for particular areas, including: Yosemite Village; Curry Village; the Ahwahnee; 

Yosemite Lodge; campground, Camp 4, and Housekeeping Camp; and day-use areas, the Indian 

Cultural Center, LeConte Memorial Lodge, Happy Isles, and shuttle bus stops. 

Regional Scenic Context 

The scenery of Yosemite is one of its most significant resources and is largely responsible for the high 

visitation of the park by people from around the world. The 2009 summer visitor study indicated that the 

most common visitor activity was viewing scenery (93%) and the primary activity for 41% of visitor 

groups was also viewing scenery (Blotkamp et al. 2010). The 2008 winter visitor study indicated that for 

67% of visitors, interest in seeing Yosemite scenery in wintertime was the most common factor affecting 

their decision to visit the park. The most common visitor activities were viewing scenery/taking a scenic 

drive (84%), taking photographs/painting/drawing (73%), and day hiking (35%) (Le et al. 2008). 

As described in the “American Indian Traditional Cultural Resources” subsection later in this chapter, 

American Indian tribes and groups assign strong spiritual value to the Merced River and Yosemite 

Valley, attaching names and stories to geologic and other features in the river corridor. Since the first 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-757

explorations and descriptions of the Valley by Euro-Americans in the mid-19th century, views of the 

pastoral Valley juxtaposed with towering geologic features and dramatic waterfalls have been 

recognized as outstanding resources of Yosemite Valley. Indeed, the beauty of the Yosemite landscape 

came to the attention of the nation largely through the early writings, paintings, and photographs 

produced by nationally recognized artists and visitors to the region, whose inspiration in many ways 

influenced the U.S. Congressional legislation, leading to the designation of Yosemite as a place worthy 

of preservation. The scenic resources of Yosemite have a high degree of cultural significance. Most of 

the quintessential views into and from the Valley are iconic and are reflected in the works of artists 

including Albert Bierstadt, Ansel Adams, Thomas Moran, and Myron Hunt. The entire park, including 

the Wilderness and other areas outside Yosemite Valley, remains a favorite subject for professional 

and amateur artists, photographers, and writers, whose work continues to communicate to visitors and 

nonvisitors alike the unique scenic resource values of the park. 

Scenic views from nearly all lands in the Merced River corridor include steep valleys and canyon walls, 

clear air, spectacular rock formations, and panoramic views, which combine to offer a wealth of visual 

resources nearly unsurpassed in the United States. As people move through the varied topography and 

vegetation along sections of the valleys and canyons that frame the Merced River, they experience a 

varied sequence of visual resources that provide a cumulative visual experience that is unique and above 

and beyond that of enjoying any one single viewpoint. This experience involves the interaction of 

multiple elements in relation to each other: the juxtaposition of individual features with the foreground 

and background, the interface of different surfaces, and the interplay of light reflecting off the different 

colors and textures of the elements making up the visual landscape. 

Wildfire suppression practices initiated in the early 1900s have changed vegetation patterns from open, 

park-like vistas to more dense vegetation that have restricted views. In addition, historic wildfire 

suppression practices have resulted in catastrophic fires that affect scenic views. Vegetation changes 

that have affected scenic viewpoints are discussed further below, by segment. 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Visual resources along this segment are less studied than those in Yosemite Valley and other 

developed areas, but exhibit equivalent scenic resource value. The scenery of this wilderness segment 

of the river is characterized by dramatic, glacially carved canyons; montane lakes framed by steeply 

sloping and sparsely vegetated granite rock faces; and meandering creeks flowing through broad 

pristine meadows. Scenic landmarks visible from the river and its band, and that contribute to this 

segment’s scenic outstandingly remarkable value (ORV), include Washburn and Merced Lakes (see 

Photo SCN-1), Echo Valley, Bunnell Point, and Little Yosemite Valley, and many other named and 

unnamed scenic landmarks. 

This long river segment of great visual variety, with its largely uncompromised natural setting, provides 

diverse, exceptional scenery, all with the river in the foreground. Human-made features in this 

segment are relatively few. Moreover, the comparatively low visitor use in Segment 1 enhances its 

scenic quality. Noteworthy human-made features visible in the river corridor are generally limited to 

the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp (see Photos SCN-2 and SCN-3) and the composting toilet at Little 
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9-758 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Yosemite Valley Campground. 

The Little Yosemite and Merced 

Lake Ranger Stations are also 

visible from the river corridor. 

Other factors that may influence 

the area’s aesthetic character 

include regional air pollution 

(e.g., haze), which can limit 

visibility during the summer (NPS 

and Colorado State University 

2002); and crowding near the 

backcountry designated camping 

areas as viewed in the foreground 

of scenic views or views of the 

river, which operate near capacity 

all summer. Despite the presence 

of existing structures, views from 

the river and trails along Segment 

1 continue to have high aesthetic value. 

Photo SCN-2: Merced Lake High Sierra Camp – 2010 (Yochim 2010) 

Photo SCN-1: Merced Lake – 2010 (Yochim 2010)
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-759

Photo SCN-3: Merced Lake High Sierra Camp – 2010 (Yochim 2010) 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

The Merced River enters Yosemite Valley at Nevada Fall, flows through Emerald Pool, then over 

Vernal Fall and through Happy Isles. Once in the flat Valley, the Merced River provides the 

foreground to many of Yosemite’s most famous landmarks. From the river and its banks, views consist 

of Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Fall, El Capitan, Half Dome, and other named and unnamed parts of the 

cliffs and hanging valleys rimming the Valley (see Photos SCN-4 and SCN-5). Meandering through a 

sequence of compound oxbows, wetlands, and meadows, the river and its related features provide 

broadened panoramas. Throughout the Valley, views from the river and its banks encompass the 

lower montane forest as it rises up to sheer rock faces of granite cliffs and talus slopes, with a flat valley 

bottom serving as a contrasting foreground. The juxtaposition of granite domes and waterfalls is 

unique, as is the concentration of river-related views found in the Valley. 

During development of the Yosemite General Management Plan in the late 1970s, the NPS conducted 

an analysis of existing and historic viewing conditions in Yosemite Valley and identified the landscape 

features most visitors look for and are able to distinguish (NPS 1980). The study found the 11 most 

important features in the Valley to be Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, Three 

Brothers, Cathedral Rocks and Spires, Sentinel Rock, Glacier Point, North Dome, Washington 

Column, and Royal Arches. The study also evaluated all points from which these features could be 

seen (assuming no vegetation or structures obstructed the view) to establish the scenic viewing 

potential of different locations on the Valley floor. Existing viewpoints were identified, and the quality 

of their views and their proximity to roads and trails were noted. All of the identified “most important 

features” included in the Yosemite General Management Plan analysis are visible from various sections 

of the Merced River through Yosemite Valley. 
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9-760 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

The viewpoint analysis conducted for the Yosemite General Management Plan identified areas in 

Yosemite Valley that were consistently selected by eminent early photographers and painters as the best 

areas to pursue their activities. The Merced River is featured prominently in many representations of the 

Valley as both a foreground subject in the river corridor and a scenic feature from outside the river 

corridor. When the existing and historical viewpoints were established for the Yosemite General 

Management Plan viewpoint analysis, Yosemite Valley was classified according to the following criteria: 

A-Scenic: Areas included in scenic views commonly chosen by eminent early photographers 

and painters, or included in the most significant scenic views that exist today 

(includes all meadows and the entire length of the Merced River in the Valley). 

B-Scenic: Areas included in scenic views less commonly chosen by historic photographers and 

painters, or that compose less-significant modern views based on park management 

observations. 

C-Scenic: Areas of minor scenic quality and areas that can absorb visual intrusion without 

detracting from either primary or secondary views. 

The viewpoint analysis considered potential opportunities, as well as existing and historic viewpoints, 

and resulted in the development of the Yosemite Valley Scenic Analysis map (see figure 9-38). The 

acreage of the classification areas is as follows: 1,800 acres classified as A-Scenic, 1,116 acres classified 

as B-Scenic, and 73 acres classified as C-Scenic. In these areas, the study found visual intrusions 

resulting from human-made features and vegetation affected views, and the major visual intrusions 

were roads and traffic through Ahwahnee Meadow, Stoneman Meadow, and other meadows when 

viewing Half Dome and other important features of Yosemite Valley from the Valley floor (including 

Photo SCN-4: El Capitan – 2009 (Yochim 2009) Photo SCN-5: Half Dome – 2010 (Yochim 2010)
Merced River Comprehensive Management Plan and EIS

Figure 9-38

Yosemite Valley Scenic Analysis

SOURCE: NPS, 1978
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from lands in the Merced River corridor). Other major intrusions into the scenic beauty of the Valley 

included NPS and concessioner maintenance and warehouse facilities, Camp 6, Housekeeping Camp, 

and Curry Village (NPS 1980).

Views from trails, bridges, and vista points throughout Yosemite Valley continue to retain high 

aesthetic value. However, the built and natural environments have changed somewhat since the river 

was designated as Wild and Scenic and the Yosemite Valley segment was classified as Recreational. 

These changes include those associated with damaged and removed structures, meadow and riparian 

conditions, park visitation patterns, and altered conditions at scenic viewpoints, as described below. 

The January 1997 flood caused perhaps the most significant change in views across the Yosemite Valley 

segment since completion of the viewpoint analysis. The flood damaged or destroyed approximately 

half of the lodging units at Yosemite Lodge (which were subsequently removed) as well as many 

campgrounds in the Merced River floodplain. Other more recent changes to the human-made 

environment include installation of curbing along Northside and Southside Drives, which reduced the 

number of cars that could be parked in the foreground of scenic resource views; completion of the 

Yosemite Falls project, which removed idling buses from distant views of the falls; replacement of 

Sentinel Bridge; and removal of employee housing (tent cabins) at Yosemite Lodge.

Over the past 20 years, the park has 

undertaken a number of meadow 

restoration projects, including the 

construction of meadow boardwalks, 

planting native vegetation, removing 

nonnative vegetation, and implementing 

monitoring programs. While meadow 

conditions continue to experience damage 

associated with ongoing informal trail use, 

soil disturbance, etc., overall meadow 

conditions have improved; as a result, 

direct views of meadows as well as the 

contribution of foreground meadow views 

to iconic scenic vistas have improved as 

well. Constrictions to the free-flowing 

condition of the Merced River occur at 

bridges with openings too small to 

accommodate spring floods, resulting in bank erosion which affects views of the river or other scenic 

resources where eroded areas are seen in the foreground. In addition, vegetation trampling associated 

with visitor access to river points also causes bank erosion. Both actions affect direct views of the river 

and long-range iconic views where the river is visible in the foreground (see Photo SCN-6). 

The Scenic Vista Management Plan describes vegetation changes that have affected scenic viewpoints, 

rates and ranks the quality of viewpoints, and defines limits on management actions based on ecological 

conditions. The Scenic Vista Management Plan (NPS 2011d) prioritizes sites based on a visual resource 

assessment. These assessments include scores (compiled points assigned to vividness, uniqueness, access 

Photo SCN-6: Informal trails along Merced River riverbank – 

2010 (ESA 2010) 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-763

and intactness) for vista points as of 2009. Scores of 10 to 18 (the highest possible) are considered “high 

value,” scores above 7 to 9.99 are considered “medium value,” and scores of 7 and below are considered 

“low value.” The assessment results for sites in the Merced River corridor and for sites that provide views 

of the river and river-dependent resources are included in Appendix H. The assessment describes the 

iconic features visible from each vista point and provides recommendations for vegetation management 

actions that would improve scenic views. The study found that vegetation currently obstructs scenic 

views at many of the Valley (Segment 2) vista points due to conifer encroachment in the meadows. Scenic 

vistas can also be obscured by regional air pollution, which results in occasional haze during the summer 

(NPS and Colorado State University 2002). It is noted that specific initial management actions for vista 

points in or near the Tuolumne River Wild and Scenic River corridor or the Merced River Wild and 

Scenic River corridor will be analyzed and directed by the respective river plan. No actions will be taken 

on vista points within either Wild and Scenic River corridor until a Record of Decision (ROD) is signed 

for the respective river plans. 

While a substantial number of structures were removed from Segment 2 following the January 1997 

flood, and several restoration projects have been completed, a number of visual intrusions identified in 

the Yosemite General Management Plan remain throughout the Valley, including traffic, parking, and 

crowding at popular visitor attraction sites; roads and traffic through Ahwahnee, Stoneman, and other 

meadows; NPS and concessioner 

maintenance and warehouse facilities; 

Housekeeping Camp; and Cathedral 

Beach Picnic Area. 

Segment 3: Merced River Gorge 

Visual resources in the V-shaped Merced 

River gorge downstream from Yosemite 

Valley are somewhat limited because of 

the steep terrain and forest cover. 

Important views from the Merced River 

or its banks in the gorge include 

panoramic views of the steep walls and 

rock features that define the gorge, such 

as Pulpit Rock, the Rostrum, and 

Elephant Rock, as well as the Cascades 

and other spectacular rapids among giant 

boulders. 

Roadway pullouts along Segment 3 allow 

for short- and long-range views of the 

river (see Photo SCN-7). The river and 

Cascades Fall are intermittently visible 

from vehicles traveling along El Portal 

Road and Big Oak Flat Road. Some 

structures in the gorge do intrude into Photo SCN-7: Merced River Gorge – 2010 (Yochim 2010) 
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scenic views of Segment 3, such as the Cascades Powerhouse. However, these structures do not 

dominate the natural landscape from any viewpoint. 

With the exception of El Portal Road and the structures described above, there are few visual intrusions 

along Segment 3. Views from the river and roads in the Merced River gorge continue to have high 

aesthetic value. However, regional air pollution periodically results in haze during the summer, which 

can limit views. 

Segment 4: El Portal 

As the river gorge widens into the El Portal area, views are slightly expanded. As in Yosemite Valley 

and the Merced River gorge, the canyon walls are still steep in El Portal. No formal visual resource 

studies have been conducted for this portion of the Merced River, and the landscape viewed from in 

the Merced River corridor consists primarily of the river and the canyon walls. Because the vegetation 

has changed from a Sierran mixed conifer to oak woodland in the lower part of the Gorge, and 

because the canyon walls illustrate the geologic transition from granite to metasedimentary bedrock, 

the El Portal segment provides scenery that is different from other parts of the Merced River corridor 

in Yosemite. Distinct views of Chinquapin Fall to the east of El Portal are visible from several locations 

in Segment 4. Human-made structures (including stores, housing, a fuel station, a trailer village, park 

administrative facilities, aboveground utilities, abandoned infrastructure, and riprap) and Highway 

140 are adjacent to the river and some of these structures contrast in color, materials, and form, and/or 

lack screening (trees) from views of the river. 

Segments 5 and 8: South Fork Merced River Above and Below Wawona 

The South Fork Merced River above and below Wawona is largely inaccessible, with just a few trail 

crossings above Wawona and none below (see Photos SCN-8 and SCN-9). While no formal visual 

resource studies have been conducted for this portion of the river, the wilderness segments of the 

South Fork Merced River remain largely natural and undisturbed. As discussed in the previous 

sections, summer haze can also limit views to and in Segments 5 and 8. 

Scenery that can be directly viewed from in the river corridor above Wawona is generally limited to the 

South Fork Merced River itself at trail crossings, as well as longer-range views from the trails to Breeze 

Lake, Chain Lakes, Buck Camp, and Wawona Point areas (see Photo SCN-10). Views from the river 

corridor include distant views of forests and granite features such as Wawona Dome. Scenery along 

the South Fork Merced River below. 

Wawona is characterized by forested slopes descending to the meandering river, with intermittent 

gravel bars apparent. With river access difficult and few turnouts, viewing opportunities are typically 

brief and experienced by motorists from the road. One scenic viewpoint in Segment 8 below Wawona 

and one viewpoint that provides views to the South Fork Merced River above Wawona (Segment 5) are 

characterized in the Scenic Vista Management Plan, as summarized in Appendix H. 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-765

Photo SCN-8: South Fork Merced River above 

Wawona Crossing – 2010 (Yochim 2010) 

Photo SCN-9: South Fork Merced River – 2010 

(Yochim 2010)

Photo SCN-10: South Fork Merced River above Wawona from a ridge between Chain 

Lakes and Breeze Lake (Yochim 2010) 
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Segments 6 and 7: Wawona Impoundment and Wawona 

Scenery viewed directly from in the river corridor in the Wawona area is primarily of the South Fork 

Merced River itself, with distant views of forests and granite features, such as Wawona Dome. In the 

foreground, views include managed landscapes throughout the private development in Section 35, 

which consists of the largest privately owned area in the park, and downriver to the Wawona 

Campground. In the broader context of the watershed, these elements do not dominate the landscape 

but are certainly apparent among the mix of landscapes in the region. The Scenic Vista Management 

Plan Environmental Assessment (described above for the valley segment) includes an evaluation of 

scenic viewpoints in Segment 7 and viewpoints that afford views of this segment; the visual resources 

assessment findings for these segments are presented in Appendix H. 

Environmental Consequences Methodology 

The impact analysis associated with scenic resources is based on comparisons between Alternative 1 

(No Action) and Alternatives 2–6. The effects of each alternative are evaluated by analyzing potential 

impacts on natural and cultural landscape features and how impacts might be experienced by visitors. 

Professional judgment was applied to reach reasonable conclusions as to the context, intensity, 

duration, and type of potential impacts. 

 Context. For the purposes of this analysis, only local impacts are considered. This includes 

impacts that would occur in the Merced River corridor. 

 Intensity. Scenic resources impacts would be assessed based on a substantial: (a) change in 

existing landscape character, whether foreground, intermediate ground, or background, and 

be visible from viewpoints the NPS has identified as important; (b) change in access to 

historically important viewpoints; or (c) change in the visibility of a viewpoint. The magnitude 

of impacts to scenic resources, either on the physical component of the natural or cultural 

landscape (quantitative) or on how the change might be experienced (qualitative), is described 

as negligible, minor, moderate, or major. 

- Negligible: Effects would be undetectable by visitors. 

- Minor: Effects would be detectable, but would only impact areas that are not highly 

visible. 

- Moderate: Effects would be noticeable and would impact highly visible areas. 

- Major: Effects would be clearly detectable and would impact outstanding vista points 

identified by the Merced River Plan. 

 Duration. The duration of the impact considers whether the impact would occur in the short 

term or the long term. A short-term impact would be short-lived or temporary, usually due to 

construction, restoration, or demolition activities. A long-term impact would have a 

permanent and continual effect. 

 Type. Impacts are evaluated in terms of whether they would be beneficial or adverse to scenic 

resources in the Merced River corridor. Impacts are considered beneficial if the quality of the 

visual experience would be improved and adverse if the quality of the visual experience would 

be diminished. 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 1 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-767

Environmental Consequences of Alternative 1 (No Action) 

All River Segments 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 1 (No Action), riprap and abandoned infrastructure would remain in the river 

channel and meadow floodplains. Informal trails in meadows would remain and conifers would 

continue to encroach in meadows. In addition, localized riverbank erosion and scouring effects 

associated with bridges would remain. This would continue to result in secondary scenic resources 

impacts where affected natural resources areas are in scenic views or are the foreground to scenic 

resources. In addition, traffic congestion would continue to affect scenic views where seen in the 

foreground of the river and scenic views. Scenic vista management actions would not be implemented. 

Regional haze, as discussed in the “Air Quality” subsection, could adversely affect scenic vistas in the 

project area seasonally. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

As discussed in the natural resources analysis topic subsection, Alternative 1 (No Action) would result 

in increased park visitation compared with existing conditions, based on projected population 

increases. Ongoing visitor use impacts on natural resources, such as the creation of informal trails, 

trampling of vegetation, and increased bank erosion, would continue similar to existing conditions and 

result in secondary scenic resources impacts where affected natural resources areas are in scenic views 

or are the foreground to scenic resources. 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 1 (No Action), high levels of bare ground and trampling associated with 

administrative pack stock grazing and informal trails would remain. This would result in secondary 

scenic resources impacts where affected natural resources areas are in scenic views or are the 

foreground to scenic resources. These conditions would result in local, long-term, minor, adverse 

impacts on the scenic resources in Segment 1. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Scenic resources and views from the Merced River and its banks in Segment 1 are largely 

uncompromised, with the exception of human use areas that affect the scenic quality of the segment 

(e.g., Merced Lake High Sierra Camp and associated stock corral, the Little Yosemite Valley 

Campground and associated composting toilet, the Little Yosemite Ranger Station, the Moraine Dome 

Backpackers Campground, and the Merced Lake Backpackers Campground). Under Alternative 1 

(No Action), these facilities would continue to be present, consistent with existing conditions. Since 

park visitation could increase over existing levels, Segment 1 could experience a higher concentration 

of visitors than existing levels. In the absence of a comprehensive planning effort to manage increased 
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visitation, increased vegetation trampling, erosion, and other damage to resources could occur (as 

discussed in the natural resources impact subsections of this chapter), which would affect the scenic 

quality of Segment 1 where damaged resources are visible from scenic viewpoints or are in the 

foreground of a scenic viewpoint. It is not expected that access to historically important viewpoints 

would change or that changes in the visibility of a viewpoint would occur. Alternative 1 would result in 

local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 1. 

In summary, under Alternative 1 (No Action), scenic resources and views from the Merced River and its 

banks in Segment 1 would continue to be largely uncompromised. However, the continued presence of 

human-made structures and areas of disturbance continue to detract from the scenic quality of views and 

increased visitation could result in impacts on the scenic quality of Segment 1. No changes in access and 

visibility would occur under this alternative. Alternative 1 would result in local, long-term, minor, adverse 

impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 1. 

Segment 1 Impact Summary. Implementation of Alternative 1 (No Action) would result in local, 

long-term, minor, adverse impact on the scenic resources of Segment 1. 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 1 (No Action), the Merced River could continue to widen in certain areas as a result 

of human-caused erosion, loss of bank vegetation, and trampling. Constrictions of the free-flowing 

condition of the Merced River would continue to result in acceleration of water velocity at bridges 

with openings too small to accommodate spring floods, resulting in continued erosion. The bridges 

themselves contribute to the landscape character of the area. Abutments and abandoned infrastructure 

associated with the former bridge at Happy Isles and the gage base, and Pohono Bridge gaging station 

would remain. Abandoned infrastructure would remain at many meadows and riparian areas. This 

would result in secondary scenic resources impacts where affected natural resources areas are in 

scenic views or are the foreground to scenic resources, and these impacts could continue to occur 

similar to existing conditions. 

The park would proceed with restoration projects at Bridalveil, Cook’s, and El Capitan meadows, as 

well as riverbank restoration at North Pines Campground. The park would also continue invasive 

species control and conifer removal from some meadows. These projects and activities would improve 

the scenic quality of these areas. As noted above, the Scenic Vista Management Plan describes 

vegetation changes that have resulted in intrusions on scenic viewpoints, ranks the quality of 

viewpoints, and defines limits on management actions based on ecological conditions. There are 

approximately 50 scenic vista points identified within Segment 2 or near Segment 2 that provide views 

of the segment with recommended vegetation management to improve scenic view quality. These 

vegetation management actions would not be implemented under Alternative 1 (No Action). 

Alternative 1 (No Action) would therefore result in local, long-term, minor to moderate, adverse 

impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 1 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-769

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Change in access to historically important viewpoints is not expected to occur under Alternative 1 

(No Action). Because park visitation is anticipated to increase 3% annually over existing levels, 

Segment 2 could experience a higher concentration of visitors than existing levels. Though applicable 

throughout the park, human-caused erosion and other resource damage is likely to be much more of a 

concern in Yosemite Valley than in the Wilderness, El Portal, or Wawona because of the Valley’s much 

higher concentration of visitors. In the absence of a comprehensive planning effort to manage 

increased visitation and improve banks or bridges in areas where they currently constrict the freeflowing condition of the river, increased damage to resources would occur. These actions affect direct 

views of the river and long-range iconic views where the river is visible in the foreground. 

Under Alternative 1 (No Action), facilities that are visible within the foreground of views of the river or 

other scenic viewpoints (including roads and traffic through Ahwahnee, Stoneman, and other meadows 

when viewing Half Dome from the Valley floor, NPS and concessioner maintenance and warehouse 

facilities, and Housekeeping Camp) would continue to be present, consistent with existing conditions. 

Design and construction of new structures and renovation of existing structures would be subject to the 

design guidelines requirements of A Sense of Place. Alternative 1 (No Action) would therefore result in 

local, long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2.

Segment 2 Impact Summary. Under Alternative 1 (No Action), scenic resources and views of and 

from the Merced River and its banks in Segment 2 would continue to retain high aesthetic value. 

However, the continued presence of visual intrusions, some structures and facilities, and increased 

visitation could result in impacts on the scenic quality of Segment 2. Some meadow restoration and 

riverbank restoration projects, and invasive species removal would improve scenic quality and the 

visibility of a number of scenic viewpoints. Overall, there would be no change in access under 

Alternative 1. Alternative 1 (No Action) would result in local, long-term, minor to moderate, adverse 

impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced River Gorge and El Portal 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Scenic resources and views from the Merced River and its banks in the Merced River Gorge include 

short- and long-range views of the river. Abandoned infrastructure and human-made structures would 

continue to be present at in El Portal, as described in Regional Scenic Context. This would result in 

secondary scenic resources impacts where affected natural resources areas are in scenic views or are 

the foreground to scenic resources, and these impacts could continue to occur similar to existing 

conditions. 

As noted above, the Scenic Vista Management Plan describes vegetation changes that have resulted in 

intrusions on scenic viewpoints, ranks the quality of viewpoints, and defines limits on management 

actions based on ecological conditions. The quality of viewpoints was scored based on vividness, 

uniqueness, and intactness of the viewpoints. There is one scenic vista point identified within 

Segment 3, and more than 10 that provide views to the segment. The plan includes recommendations 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-770 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

for vegetation management to improve scenic view quality. These vegetation management actions 

would not be implemented under Alternative 1 (No Action). Consequently, Alternative 1 (No Action) 

would result in local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 3 and 

4.Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Because park visitation is expected to increase over existing levels, Segment 3 could experience a 

higher concentration of visitors than existing levels. In the absence of a comprehensive planning effort 

to manage increased visitation, increased vegetation trampling, erosion, and other damage to resources 

could occur. Access from the El Portal Road and Highway 140 to the river is largely via informal trails, 

some of which are eroding into the river and would continue to erode with increased visitation. 

Damage to resources would affect the scenic quality of Segments 3 and 4 where the resources are 

visible from scenic viewpoints or are in the foreground of a scenic viewpoint. 

The El Portal Administrative Site was established by Congress in 1958 to allow relocation of operations 

and maintenance utilities, facilities, and services out of the park. Roadside parking and river access are 

largely informal, and while river use levels are low enough such that informal access is acceptable, 

increased visitation could result in bank erosion and vegetation trampling, which would affect the 

overall scenic quality of the area. Alternative 1 (No Action) would therefore result in local, long-term, 

minor, adverse impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 3 and 4. In summary, under Alternative 1 

(No Action), scenic resources and views from the Merced River and its banks in Segments 3 and 4 

would continue to be largely uncompromised. However, the continued presence of human-made 

structures would continue and increased visitation could result in impacts on the scenic quality of 

Segments 3 and 4. Increased park visitation could result in damage to resources that would affect the 

scenic quality of these segments. Implementation of the Scenic Vista Management Plan would not 

occur. Overall, there would be no change in access under Alternative 1. Alternative 1 (No Action) 

would result in local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 3 and 4. 

Segments 3 & 4 Impact Summary. Implementation of Alternative 1 would result in local, long-term, 

minor, adverse impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 3 & 4. 

Segments 5, 6, 7, and 8: South Fork Merced River 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Scenic resources and views from the river and its banks along the South Fork Merced River are largely 

natural and undisturbed and have high aesthetic value. However, there are existing structures and 

facilities in the Segment 7 viewshed, including the Wawona maintenance yard, Wawona RV dump 

station, and abandoned metal pipes in South Fork Merced River side channels. These structures and 

facilities would continue to be present under Alternative 1 (No Action). In addition, vegetation 

trampling and bank erosion has occurred in the vicinity of campgrounds and picnic areas. This would 

result in secondary scenic resources impacts where affected natural resources areas are in scenic views 

or are the foreground to scenic resources, and these impacts could continue to occur similar to 

existing conditions. 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 1 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-771

As noted above, the Scenic Vista Management Plan describes vegetation changes that have resulted in 

intrusions on scenic viewpoints, ranks the quality of viewpoints, and defines limits on management 

actions based on ecological conditions. The quality of viewpoints was scored based on vividness, 

uniqueness, and intactness of the viewpoints. There are approximately 9 scenic vista points identified 

within these segments or near Segment 3 that provide views of the segment. The Plan recommends 

vegetation management to improve scenic view quality at these locations. These vegetation 

management actions would not be implemented under Alternative 1 (No Action). The resulting 

impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 5, 6, and 7 would continue to be local, long-term, minor, 

and adverse. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Since park visitation could increase over existing levels, Wawona could experience a higher 

concentration of visitors than existing levels, which could result in further trampling of vegetation and 

damage to resources. Damage to resources would affect the scenic quality of the segments where the 

resources are visible from scenic viewpoints or are in the foreground of a scenic viewpoint. Alternative 1 

(No Action)would result in local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on the scenic resources of 

Segments 5, 6, 7, and 8. 

Segments 5-8 Impact Summary. Under Alternative 1 (No Action), scenic resources and views from 

the South Fork Merced River and its banks would continue to be largely uncompromised. However, 

the presence of human-made structures would continue and increased visitation could result in 

impacts on the scenic quality of the segments. Overall, there would be no change in access under 

Alternative 1. The resulting impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 5, 6, and 7 would continue to 

be local, long-term, minor, and adverse. 

Summary of Alternative 1 (No Action) Impacts 

In the absence of a comprehensive planning effort to manage increased visitation, reduce human-made 

structures, and restore areas of natural resource damage, scenic resources impacts would continue 

These effects would be most pronounced in areas with concentrated facilities that intrude on the 

landscape character of the river segments and visitor use (e.g., Yosemite Valley and Wawona) that 

result in vegetation trampling, erosion, and other resource damage that affects the scenic quality of the 

segment where the resources are visible from scenic viewpoints or are in the foreground of a scenic 

viewpoint. NPS administrative requirements do afford some protection to the river from future 

actions, but no comprehensive or unified plan exists to protect the scenic resources of the Merced 

River. Alternative 1 (No Action) would have a local, long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impact on 

scenic resources. 

Cumulative Impacts of Alternative 1 (No Action) 

The discussion of cumulative impacts on scenic resources is based on analysis of past, present, and 

reasonably foreseeable actions in the Yosemite region in combination with the potential effects of 

Alternative 1 (No Action). The projects identified below include those projects that have the potential 

to affect the scenic resources of the Merced River. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-772 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Past Actions 

Past actions have resulted in a range of beneficial and adverse impacts. Beneficial impacts of past 

actions include removal of structures and restoration of natural drainage features and meadow 

restoration and removal of vegetation that blocked scenic views. Specific examples of past projects 

include the following: 

Restoration/Removal: Cascades Housing Removal, Cascades Diversion Dam Removal, Happy 

Isles Gauging Station Bridge Removal, Cook’s Meadow Ecological Restoration, Fern Springs 

Restoration, Happy Isles Fen Habitat Restoration Project, Merced River Ecological Restoration at 

Eagle Creek Project, Wawona Tunnel View Project, Lower Yosemite Fall Project 

Facility Development: Bridges provide scenic viewing opportunities and are viewed by some 

visitors as scenic features. 

Adverse impacts from past actions include the introduction of obstructions in the Merced River 

channel, which results in bank erosion, and the introduction of facilities that intrude on the scenic 

quality of the river. Specific examples of such past projects include the following: 

Modified Hydrological Features: Previous development of bridges, riprap, dikes, flood walls, 

impoundments, dams, and facilities in the river channel or floodplain. 

Facility Development: Curry Village Employee and Temporary Housing and Showerhouse 

Present Actions 

Present actions contribute to similar beneficial and adverse impacts as described for past actions. 

Beneficial impacts for present actions are similar to those discussed for past actions. Specific examples 

of present projects include the following: 

Management and Planning: Half Dome Trail Stewardship Plan, 2004 Fire Management Plan/EIS, 

upcoming Yosemite Wilderness Stewardship Plan/EIS 

Adverse impacts from present actions are similar to those discussed for past actions. Specific examples 

of present projects include the following: 

Facility Development: East Yosemite Valley Utilities Improvement Plan/EA, Wahhoga Indian 

Cultural Center, Parkwide Communication Data Network, Yosemite Environmental Education 

Campus 

Reasonably Foreseeable Future Actions 

Impacts from future actions would be similar to those discussed for past and present actions. The 

Yosemite Wilderness Stewardship Plan/EIS (Management and Planning) is an example of a future 

projects with beneficial impacts. 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 1 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-773

Overall Cumulative Impact 

Overall development and recreational uses in the Merced River watershed have resulted in localized, 

long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts on scenic resources. A number of past, present, and 

future projects have limited or would limit visitor uses through planning (which decreases the 

potential for secondary scenic resources effects), or restore vegetation and river banks, though the 

overall impact remains adverse. Alternative 1 (No Action) would contribute to worsening localized, 

adverse conditions in areas with concentrated visitor use and through the continued presence of 

facilities and infrastructure that are visible within scenic views, and presence of vegetation that is 

blocking scenic views. Cumulatively, the scenic resources impacts would be local, long term, minor to 

moderate, and adverse. 

Environmental Consequences Common to Alternatives 2–6 

All River Segments 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Actions that would take place throughout the Merced River corridor under Alternatives 2–6 include 

removal of riverbank riprap and abandoned infrastructure in the river channel where possible. 

Denuded vegetation and informal trails would be restored in several meadows, and beach access and 

trails would be defined and delineated. In addition, areas of riverbank erosion would be repaired (see 

Appendix E). Selected scenic vista points would be improved by thinning of conifers and other trees 

that encroach on views (see Appendix H). Restoration activities would result in short-term, temporary 

intrusions into views when construction and restoration activities and equipment would be visible 

from area trails and visitor use areas. However, implementation of these actions would remove areas of 

resource damage that detract from the scenic quality of the river corridor and adjacent areas. Upon 

completion of restoration activities, restored areas would be more natural in appearance. Regional 

haze could adversely affect scenic vistas in the project area seasonally. The resulting impact on scenic 

resources would be local, long-term, minor, and beneficial. 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternatives 2–6, the Merced River and its banks in Segment 1 would remain largely 

uncompromised. Implementation of these alternatives would include restoration of informal trails and 

other denuded areas at Merced Lake meadow and shoreline. Implementation of these actions would 

remove areas of resource damage that detract from the scenic quality of the Merced Lake area. Upon 

completion of restoration activities, the Merced Lake area would be more natural in appearance, as 

viewed from the Merced Lake Trail and the visitor use areas that would be retained. Views of Merced 

Lake shoreline and meadows would be improved where restoration areas are in the foreground, as 

well as views of peaks where restored areas are in the foreground. The resulting impact on the scenic 

resources of Segment 1 would be local, long-term, minor, and beneficial. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-774 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Segment 1 Impact Summary: Actions to manage user capacities, land use, and facilities within 

Segment 1would a have local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on scenic resources of Segment 1. 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

In the Happy Isles area, the former Happy Isles footbridge footings and river gage base would be 

removed from the bed and banks of the Merced River; informal trails would be revegetated; and 

wayfinding between Happy Isles and the Mist Trail from the shuttle stop would be improved to 

discourage further formation of informal trails. In addition, bank improvements would be installed 

downstream of the Happy Isles road bridge. These actions would improve the scenic quality of the 

area by reducing the number of human-made structures in the area and restoring vegetation, as seen 

from the Mist Trail, and would improve the scenic quality of the river in the area of the riverbank 

improvements, including views from the road bridge and the bicycle path on the downstream side of 

the bridge. The resulting impact on scenic resources would be local, long-term, minor, and beneficial. 

In the Lower Pines and North Pines campground areas, campsites would be removed. Riverbank 

conditions would be improved downstream of Clark’s and Ahwahnee bridges. In addition, river access 

would be improved to direct visitors to access points at sandy beach areas, which would reduce 

riparian vegetation and riverbank damage. River general restoration activities would be conducted as 

applicable, including riprap removal, removal of informal trails, and riverbank restoration in the area 

between Clark’s and Stoneman bridges. These actions would reduce the number of human-made 

structures in the area and improve the condition of riparian vegetation and riverbanks, which would 

improve views of the river from the Clark’s Bridge (Scenic Vista point 7), beach areas, and trails that 

cross the area. The resulting impact on scenic resources would be local, long-term, minor, and 

beneficial. 

In the Housekeeping Camp area, lodging units and associated structures would be removed and 

restored, including removal of riprap upstream of the Housekeeping footbridge and downstream of 

the camp. In addition, general restoration activities would be conducted as applicable, including 

removal of informal trails and revegetation. These actions would reduce the number of human-made 

structures in the area and improve the condition of riparian vegetation and river banks, which would 

improve views of the river from the Housekeeping footbridge (Scenic Vista point 92), Housekeeping 

Beach (Scenic Vista point 26), Housekeeping Bridge Trail, Southside Drive, and the adjacent bicycle 

path. Views of North Dome, Glacier Point, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Cathedral Rocks from the 

scenic vista points with the restoration areas in the foreground would be improved. The resulting 

impact on scenic resources would be local, long-term, minor to moderate, and beneficial. 

Bank restoration downstream of Sentinel Bridge would be implemented. In addition, roadbed and 

roadside parking improvements would be implemented adjacent to Cook’s Meadow. Roadside parking 

improvements would also be implemented along Sentinel Drive crossover. Improvements would also be 

made to areas of Sentinel Meadow and the boardwalk. These actions would improve the scenic quality 

and appearance of the meadows as seen from the boardwalk, trails, and Northside Drive, and also 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Common to Alternatives 2-6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-775

improve views of north Valley wall scenic features as seen from the Sentinel Meadow boardwalk vista 

point (24). The resulting impact on scenic resources would be local, long-term, minor, and beneficial. 

A number of restoration actions are proposed in the area between Swinging Bridge and El Capitan 

Picnic Area, in addition visitor use facility improvements that would focus visitor use away from 

sensitive resource areas. Riverbank restoration would occur downstream from Swinging Bridge. The 

Swinging Bridge and Sentinel Beach picnic areas and day use areas would be improved and nearby 

sensitive habitat would be restored. Informal trails would be removed from Leidig Meadow, bicycle 

path areas would be improved, and additional meadow restoration activities would be implemented. 

In addition, general restoration activities would be conducted as applicable, including removal of 

informal trails and revegetation. Bank conditions and riparian vegetation restoration would improve 

the scenic quality of the river, including views from Swinging Bridge beach and Swinging Bridge, and 

of the bridge itself (Scenic Vista points 22 and 23) and of the Swinging Bridge Picnic Area. Views of 

restored meadows as seen from these areas, as well as vista points on the west end of Leidig Meadow, 

would also be improved (Scenic Vista points 31). In addition, views of Yosemite Falls, North Dome, 

Sentinel Rock, Cathedral Rocks, Washington Column, and other iconic vistas with the river and/or 

meadows in the foreground would be improved. The resulting impact on scenic resources would be 

local, long-term, minor to moderate, and beneficial. 

A number of restoration actions are proposed in the area between El Capitan Picnic Area and the 

Bridalveil parking lot, in addition to visitor use facility improvements. Bridalveil Meadow would be 

restored in an area near El Capitan moraine, in addition to Eagle Creek Meadow and Slaughterhouse 

Meadow. River access points would be improved and nearby sensitive habitat would be restored. In 

addition, general restoration activities would be conducted as applicable, including removal of 

informal trails and revegetation. Improved bank and meadow would improve the quality of views, 

particularly as seen from Northside Drive and the Valley Loop Trail. In addition, views of El Capitan 

and Cathedral Rocks, with restoration areas in the foreground, would be improved. 

In the Bridalveil Meadow area, the riverbank and meadow would be restored, and conifers 

encroaching on the meadow would be removed. The park would remove one and pave and formalize 

five other roadside pullouts for river access between Pohono Bridge and the intersection of the Big 

Oak Flat Road. The former sewer plant area would be restored and an abandoned gaging station at 

Pohono Bridge would be removed and the area restored. In addition, general restoration activities 

would be conducted as applicable, including removal of informal trails and revegetation. These actions 

would generally reduce human-made structures and/or reduce ongoing disturbance within these areas 

by improving riverbank, riparian vegetation, and meadow conditions, which would improve the 

quality of views of the river and meadows. Conifer removal would open view of the meadow, 

particularly as seen from Northside Drive and the Valley View roadside turnout (Scenic Vista point 146). 

The resulting impact on scenic resources would be local, long-term, minor to moderate, and beneficial. 

Throughout Segment 2, there are several isolated restoration and resource protection measures that 

would result in improvement in the scenic quality of the immediate area. However, these restorations 

are in heavily wooded areas that are not in the vicinity of the river, meadows, or other scenic resources. 

The impacts of these actions would be local, long-term, negligible, and beneficial. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-776 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Under Alternatives 2–6, an interpretive nature walk would be constructed through the Lower River area 

that emphasizes river-related processes, and the Upper Pines dump would be moved away from the 

river. Yosemite Lodge concessioner housing would be removed, several picnic areas would be improved, 

and use areas would be directed away from sensitive resource areas. Several other structures would be 

removed or relocated away from the river. Creation of an interpretive nature walk would result in a small 

increase in human-made structures in the area. However, these changes would be minor and would not 

substantially affect views of the river where the trail is in the foreground. Furthermore, an interpretive 

nature walk could improve visitor understanding and appreciation of the scenic resources and vistas in 

this area. These actions would improve the scenic quality of the area by reducing the number of humanmade structures in the area, providing educational opportunities focused on scenic view opportunities, 

and protect the riverbank and riparian vegetation. Views of the river with the restoration areas in the 

foreground would be improved. Design and construction of new structures and renovation of existing 

structures would be subject to the design guidelines requirements of A Sense of Place. The resulting 

impact on scenic resources would be local, long-term, minor to moderate, and beneficial.

Curry Village and Campgrounds. The park would remove the Happy Isles Snack Stand at Curry 

Village. At The Ahwahnee, the park would remove the swimming pool and tennis courts; redesign, 

formalize, and improve drainage within the existing parking lot; and construct a new 50 parking space 

lot east of the current parking area. These actions would generally improve the scenic quality of the 

area by reducing the number of human-made structures. Parking expansion would increase humanmade structures, but these would not be expected to impact scenic views. The resulting impact would 

be local, long-term, negligible, and beneficial. 

Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. The park would remove from Yosemite Village the Concessioner 

General Office, Concessioner Garage, and the Arts and Activities Center (Bank Building), and repurpose 

the Village Sports Shop for public use. It would also construct a new maintenance building near the 

Government Utility Building. The park would remove roadside parking along Sentinel Drive and expand 

Camp 6 parking into the footprint of the Valley Garage. To improve visitor access between the Camp 6 

area and Village, the park would construct a pathway connecting the new Camp 6 parking lot with the 

repurposed Village Sports Shop. The repurposing and replacement of structures within already 

developed areas would not be expected substantially increase the number of human-made structures or 

impact scenic views. The resulting impact would be local, long-term, negligible, and adverse. 

Camp 4 and Yosemite Lodge. The park would remove the NPS Volunteer Office, post office, swimming 

pool, and snack stand. It would also remove old and temporary employee housing (Thousands Cabins 

and Highland Court) and replace it with new housing. In addition, the park would relocate the 

Yosemite Lodge maintenance and housekeeping facilities and repurpose the food court. These actions 

would reduce the number of human-made structures in the area, thereby improving the natural 

character of these areas. The resulting impact would be local, long-term, negligible, and beneficial. 

Segment 2 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values would result in segmentwide, long-term moderate, beneficial impacts on scenic resources in Segment 2. Actions to manage 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Common to Alternatives 2-6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-777

user capacities, land use, and facilities would have local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on scenic 

resources within Segment 2. 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced River Gorge and El Portal 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternatives 2–6, the abandoned infrastructure and imported fill would be removed at the 

Cascades Picnic Area, Abbieville, and Trailer Village. Management actions proposed for Segment 3 

include restoration activities would be conducted as applicable, including removal of informal trails, 

riverbank restoration, riparian zone protection, and revegetation. Management actions proposed for 

Segment 4 include riverbank protection and trail, road, and structure removal and restoration. In 

addition, general restoration activities would include removal of informal trails, bank restoration, 

riparian zone protection, and revegetation. The Greenemeyer sand pit would be restored to natural 

conditions. These actions would improve the scenic quality of restoration areas and views of the river 

in the vicinity of these areas, as seen from Highway 140 and El Portal Road. The resulting impact on 

scenic resources within Segment 4 would be local, long-term, minor to moderate, and beneficial. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Under Alternatives 2–6, 31 employee housing units would be constructed in the El Portal area, 

increasing the number of human-made structures in Segment 4. However, the new structures would be 

in areas of existing development and would not substantially affect the scenic quality of the river 

corridor and adjacent areas. The resulting impact on scenic resources within Segment 4 would be 

local, long-term, minor, and adverse. 

Segments 3 & 4 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values would result in 

segment-wide, long-term minor to moderate, beneficial impacts on scenic resources in Segment 4. 

Actions to manage user capacities, land use, and facilities would have local, long-term, minor, adverse 

impacts on scenic resources within Segment 4. 

Segments 5, 6, 7, and 8: South Fork Merced River 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternatives 2–6, the Wawona RV dump site would be relocated away from the river, and river 

access and picnicking would be delineated at the South Fork Merced River Picnic Area to focus public 

use away from areas subject to riverbank erosion. Restoration activities would result in short-term, 

temporary intrusions into views when construction and restoration activities and equipment would be 

visible from area trails and visitor use areas. However, implementation of these actions would remove 

areas of resource damage that detract from the scenic quality of the river corridor and adjacent areas, 

and views of the river with restoration areas in the foreground. Upon completion of restoration 

activities, restored areas would be more natural in appearance. The resulting impact on scenic 

resources within Segment 7 would be local, long-term, minor, and beneficial. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-778 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Under Alternatives 2–6, an operations building and grounds facility would be constructed, thus 

increasing the number of human-made structures in this area. However, the new structures would be 

in areas of existing development and would not substantially affect the scenic quality of the river 

corridor and adjacent areas. The resulting impact on scenic resources within Segment 7 would be 

local, long-term, minor, and adverse. 

Wawona. The park would redesign the bus stop at the Wawona Store to accommodate increased 

visitor use. However, the new structures would be in areas of existing development and would not 

substantially affect the scenic quality of the river corridor and adjacent areas. The resulting impact on 

scenic resources within Segment 7 would be local, long-term, negligible, and adverse. 

Segments 5-8 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values would result in segmentwide, long-term minor, beneficial impacts on scenic resources in Segment 7. Actions to manage user 

capacities, land use, and facilities would have local, long-term, negligible, adverse impacts on scenic 

resources within Segment 7. 

Summary of Impacts from Actions Common to Alternatives 2-6 

The alternatives include several common restoration actions that would improve the appearance of 

riverbanks, meadows, and riparian vegetation, and a number of actions that would result in removal of 

human-made structures and paved/graded areas. These actions would improve the scenic quality of 

restoration areas and views of the river and meadows in the vicinity of restoration areas. In addition, 

views from scenic vistas with restoration areas in the foreground would be improved. New facilities or 

structures included in management actions are proposed in existing developed areas, would adhere to 

the park’s design guidelines, and would not result in reduced scenic quality. Overall, with 

implementation of MM-VEX-2, as appropriate, (see Appendix C), actions common to Alternatives 2-6 

would result in local, long-term, moderate, beneficial impacts on scenic resources. 

Environmental Consequences of Alternative 2: Self-Reliant Visitor Experiences and 

Extensive Floodplain Restoration 

All River Segments 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

As discussed in the natural resources impact subsections of this chapter, Alternative 2 would result in 

reduced park visitation compared to Alternatives 2–6, which would reduce the potential for ongoing 

visitor use impacts on natural resources, such as creation of informal trails, trampling of vegetation, 

and increased riverbank erosion, which results in secondary scenic resources impacts where affected 

natural resources areas are in scenic views or are the foreground to scenic resources. 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 2 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-779

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Implementation of Alternative 2 would include conversion of the Little Yosemite Valley and Merced 

Lake Backpackers Camping Areas to dispersed camping, and the Moraine Dome Camping Area would 

be discontinued, along with general restoration activities as applicable in the Little Yosemite Valley 

area. Grazing of the Merced Lake East Meadow would be prohibited. Implementation of these actions 

would remove human-made structures and restore areas of resource damage that detract from the 

scenic quality of the area. Upon completion of restoration activities, the Little Yosemite Valley area 

would be more natural in appearance, as viewed from the Merced Lake Trail and the visitor use areas 

that would be retained. Views of the river would be improved where restoration areas are in the 

foreground, as well as views of peaks where restored areas are in the foreground. 

Little Yosemite Valley Wilderness zone capacity would be decreased, which would substantially 

reduce trail use in the area between Little Yosemite Valley and Merced Lake. This action, in addition 

to reducing the number of overnight units available in Segment 1, would reduce overall visitation to 

the area compared to existing conditions. Therefore, the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on 

the natural resources of Segment 1, as well as secondary effects on the scenic quality of the area would 

be reduced. Implementation of management actions related to visitor use management and facilities 

under Alternative 2 would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources 

of Segment 1. 

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp. Under Alternative 2, the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp would be 

removed and restored. Implementation of these actions would remove human-made structures that 

detract from the scenic quality of the Merced Lake area. Upon completion of restoration activities, the 

Merced Lake area would be more natural in appearance, as viewed from the Merced Lake Trail and 

the visitor use areas that would be retained. Views of Merced Lake shoreline and meadows would be 

improved where restoration areas are in the foreground, as well as views of peaks where restored areas 

are in the foreground. The resulting impacts on the scenic character of Segment 1 would be local, longterm, moderate, and beneficial. 

Segment 1 Impact Summary: Implementation of management actions related to visitor use 

management and facilities under Alternative 2 would result in local, long-term, minor to moderate, 

beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 1. 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 2, in addition to actions common to Alternatives 2–6, Stoneman, Sugar Pine, and 

Ahwahnee bridges would be removed and the riverbank areas would be restored. Additional meadow 

and riparian restorations would be implemented, including areas of Housekeeping Camp, Upper and 

Lower Rivers Campgrounds, Stoneman Meadow, El Capitan Meadow, and other highly visible 

meadow areas. All campgrounds and infrastructure in the 100-year floodplain would be removed, and 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-780 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

the floodplain and habitat would be restored. Implementation of these actions would remove areas of 

resource damage that detract from the scenic quality of the river corridor and adjacent areas, and 

views of the river with restoration areas in the foreground. Upon completion of restoration activities, 

restored areas would be more natural in appearance. However, it is noted that the bridges contribute 

to the scenic quality of the area and provide opportunities to view scenic areas, including the river. 

Implementation of management actions related to protecting and enhancing river values under 

Alternative 2 (including actions common to all alternatives) would result in local, long-term, moderate 

to major, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Under Alternative 2, lodging units and would be reduced at Housekeeping Camp. Yosemite Village 

would be substantially retained, with some structures repurposed and several structures removed. 

Yosemite Lodge would be converted to day use, with some visitor uses repurposed and a campsite 

developed northwest of the lodge area. Several lodge buildings would be removed. Restoration 

activities would improve the scenic quality in the immediate vicinity of building removal and 

restoration areas. These actions would improve the scenic quality of the area by reducing the number 

of human-made structures in the area and restoring vegetation, and would improve the scenic quality 

of the river, including views from scenic viewpoints. 

In addition, visitor use would be substantially reduced from existing conditions in Segment 2. This 

action, in addition to the above actions, would reduce the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on 

the natural resources of the area that could result in secondary effects on the scenic quality of the area. 

Implementation of management actions related to visitor use management and facilities under 

Alternative 2 (including actions common to all alternatives) would result in local, long-term, moderate, 

beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Curry Village and Campground. The park would construct 78 new hard-sided units in Boys Town, 

bringing the total number of new and retained units at Curry Village to 433. The park would remove 

campsites from Lower Pines (32), North Pines (86), and Upper Pines (24). New structures would be 

constructed in an already developed area, generally within previously developed sites. These actions 

would collectively result in a reduction in human-made structures in the Curry Village and 

Campground areas, and a return to more natural conditions. The impact on scenic resources would, 

therefore, be local, long-term, minor, and beneficial. 

Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. The park would reroute Northside Drive to the south of the Yosemite 

Village day-use parking area, reconfigure the lot to accommodate a total of 550 parking spaces north of 

the road, and install walkways leading to Yosemite Village. As these actions would occur within 

already developed areas and not obstruct scenic vistas, the impacts upon scenic resources would be 

local, long-term, negligible, and adverse. 

Camp 4 and Yosemite Lodge. The park would move on-grade pedestrian crossing between Camp 4 

and Yosemite Lodge. The park would convert the Highland Court area to a walk-in campground; 

reconfigure pedestrian crossing of Northside Drive and Yosemite Lodge Drive, and redevelop an area 

west of Yosemite Lodge to provide an additional parking for 150 automobiles and 15 tour busses. 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 2 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-781

Conversion of the Highland Court area would have a beneficial impact by reducing the number of 

human-made structures in the area and return it to more natural conditions. Additional parking at 

Yosemite Lodge would have the opposite effect as it would increase the development footprint and 

bring more vehicles and visitors into this area. However, as these actions would occur within already 

developed areas and not obstruct scenic vistas, the impacts upon scenic resources would be local, 

long-term, minor, and adverse. 

Segment 2 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values would result in segmentwide, long-term moderate to major, beneficial impacts on scenic resources within Segment 2. Actions 

to manage user capacities, land use, and facilities would also have local, long-term, moderate to major, 

beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced River Gorge and El Portal 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Within Segment 4, the park would establish a 2.25-acre oak recruitment zone in the vicinity of Odger’s 

fuel storage area and adjacent parking lots. Parking would be prohibited within the trees’ drip lines, 

and new building construction would be prohibited within the oak recruitment zone. These measures 

would have a local, long-term, minor, beneficial impact on scenic resources in the vicinity of the 

former fuel station. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Under Alternative 2, employee housing would be added to the Abbieville and Rancheria Flat, along 

with parking for these areas. These actions would increase the number of human-made structures in 

the area. However, these areas are currently developed, and the addition of these structures would not 

substantially decrease the scenic quality of the area. Overall, visitor use would be reduced from 

existing conditions, which would reduce the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural 

resources and associated secondary effects on the scenic quality of the area. Implementation of these 

actions would result in local, long-term, negligible to minor, adverse impacts on the scenic resources of 

Segment 4. 

Segments 3 & 4 Impact Summary: Implementation of actions to protect and enhance river values 

would have a local, long-term, beneficial impact on scenic resources within Segment 4. Actions to 

management visitor use and facilities under Alternative 2 would result in local, long-term, negligible to 

minor, adverse impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 4.Segments 5, 6, 7, and 8: South Fork 

Merced River. 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 2, a portion of the maintenance yard would be restored and other structures would 

be removed. The Wawona Golf Course and tennis courts would be removed. Implementation of these 

management actions would improve the scenic quality of the restoration areas. In particular, the 

restored golf course restoration area would be visible from Chowchilla Road, Highway 41, and vista 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-782 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

points along that road. The impact on scenic resources of Segment 7 would be local, long-term, 

moderate, and beneficial. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Visitor- and facilities-related actions that would occur within Segments 6 and 7 involve the removal of 

campsites, changes to visitor and administrative facilities, and various visitor access and transportation 

improvements within Segment 7. These actions would be expected to decrease overall visitation within 

this Segments 5-8. 

As a result, the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural resources of Segments 5–8, and 

associated secondary effects on the scenic quality of these segments would be reduced. 

Implementation these actions would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on the scenic 

resources of Segments 5–8. 

Wawona Campground: Under Alternative 2, the park would reduce the size of the Wawona 

Campground. Thirty-two campsites, or 33% of all campsites within Wawona, would be removed from 

the floodplain. These actions would further reduce visitation and the number of human-made 

structures in the vicinity, and restore the area to more natural conditions. The resulting impact on 

scenic resources within Segment 7 would be local, long-term, minor, and beneficial. 

Segments 5-8 Impact Summary: Overall, implementation of management actions related to visitor 

use management and facilities under Alternative 2 would result in local, long-term, minor to moderate, 

beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 5–8. 

Summary of Impacts from Alternative 2: Self-Reliant Visitor Experiences and Extensive 

Floodplain Restoration 

Alternative 2 includes a substantial number of restoration actions that would improve the appearance 

of riverbanks, meadows, and riparian vegetation and a number of actions that would result in removal 

of human-made structures and paved/graded areas. These actions would improve the scenic quality of 

restoration areas and views of the river and meadows in the vicinity of restoration areas. In addition, 

views from scenic vistas with restoration areas in the foreground would be improved. New facilities or 

structures included in management actions are proposed in existing developed areas and would not 

result in reduced scenic quality. In addition, visitor use capacity management would be implemented, 

resulting in visitor use that is substantially lower than existing levels, which would reduce the potential 

for ongoing visitor use impacts on natural resources that could result in secondary effects on scenic 

resources. Overall, with implementation of MM-VEX-2, as appropriate, (see Appendix C), Alternative 2 

would result in local, long-term, moderate to major, beneficial impacts on scenic resources. 

Cumulative Impacts from Alternative 2: Self-Reliant Visitor Experiences and Extensive 

Floodplain Restoration 

The discussion of cumulative impacts to scenic resources is based on analysis of past, present, and 

reasonably foreseeable actions in the Yosemite region in combination with the potential effects of 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 2 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-783

Alternative 2. The projects identified below include those projects that have the potential to affect the 

scenic resources of the Merced River. See Appendix C for a full list of cumulative projects. 

Past, Present and Reasonably Foreseeable Actions 

Past, present and reasonably foreseeable actions that would contribute towards cumulative effects 

towards scenic resources under this alternative are the same as those listed for Alternative 1. 

Overall Cumulative Impact 

Overall development and recreational uses in the Merced River watershed have resulted in localized, 

long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts on scenic resources. A number of past, present, and 

future projects have beneficially limited uses through planning or restored vegetation and riverbanks, 

and management of vegetation that is blocking scenic views, although the overall impact remains 

adverse. Alternative 2 would result in local, long-term, moderate, beneficial impacts on scenic 

resources related to restoration activities throughout the planning area, removal of human-made 

structures, and reduced visitor use capacity, which result in overall improvement in the scenic quality 

of the planning area. Cumulatively, the impact on scenic resources would be local, long term, 

moderate, and beneficial. 

Environmental Consequences of Alternative 3: Dispersed Visitor Experiences and 

Extensive Riverbank Restoration 

All River Segments 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

As discussed in the natural resources impact subsections of this chapter and similar to Alternative 2, 

Alternative 3 would result in reduced park visitation compared to Alternative 1 (No Action), which 

would reduce the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on natural resources, such as creation of 

informal trails, trampling of vegetation, and increased bank erosion. These visitor use impacts result in 

secondary scenic resources impacts where affected natural resources areas are in scenic views or are 

the foreground to scenic resources. 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Under Alternative 3, the Little Yosemite Valley Campground would be reduced and portions of the 

designated camping area would be restored, rather than restoration of the entire designated camping 

area and conversion to dispersed camping under Alternative 2. Merced Lake Backpackers Camping 

Area would be expanded. Grazing of the Merced Lake East Meadow would be regulated. Restoration 

activities and reduced visitor capacity would improve the scenic quality of Segment 1, and reduce 

ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural resources of the area and associated secondary impacts on 

the scenic quality of the area. Implementation of management actions related to visitor use 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-784 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

management and facilities under Alternative 3 would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial 

impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 1. 

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp. The park would close the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp and 

removal all infrastructure, convert the area to designated Wilderness, and use the former camp area for 

a temporary stock camp. Upon completion of restoration activities, despite the continued use of the 

area as a stock camp, the Merced Lake area would be more natural in appearance, as viewed from the 

Merced Lake Trail and the visitor use areas that would be retained. Views of Merced Lake shoreline 

and meadows would be improved where restoration areas are in the foreground, as well as views of 

peaks where restored areas are in the foreground. The resulting impacts on the scenic character of 

Segment 1 would be local, long-term, minor to moderate, and beneficial. 

Segment 1 Impact Summary: Actions to manage user capacities, land use, and facilities within 

Segment 1 would a have local, long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial impacts on scenic resources in 

Segment 1. 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Actions under Alternative 3 would be similar to Alternative 2 and would also result in an overall 

improvement in the scenic quality of Segment 2. For many actions, the meadow or riverbank 

restoration approach proposed under Alternative 3 would be different than that proposed for 

Alternative 2; however, the scenic quality of the restoration areas following restoration activities would 

be similarly improved. Implementation of management actions related to protecting and enhancing 

river values under Alternative 3 (including actions common to all alternatives) would result in local, 

long-term, moderate to major, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

A greater number of campsites would be retained and less restoration would occur under Alternative 3 

than under Alternative 2. In addition, a recreational vehicle (RV) campground would be developed. 

However, the proposed expanded campground is in a heavily wooded area that could be seen from the 

bicycle path adjacent to the river and Happy Isles Loop Road. Views of the Merced River with the 

campground areas in the foreground would not be improved to the same degree as under Alternative 2, 

including views from Happy Isles bridge (Scenic Vista point 14), Clark’s Bridge (Scenic Vista point 7), 

Housekeeping Camp footbridge (Scenic Vista point 92), Housekeeping Beach (Scenic Vista point 26), 

Housekeeping Bridge trail, Southside Drive, and the adjacent bicycle path and trails that cross this area. 

In addition, views of North Dome, Glacier Point, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Cathedral Rocks from 

the scenic vista points with the campground areas in the foreground would be not be improved to the 

same degree under Alternative 3 as under Alternative 2. 

In Curry Village, a greater number of lodging units and parking spaces would be retained at the Curry 

Orchard Parking Area, than under Alternative 2. In the Yosemite Village area, some structures would 

be retained, rather than removed as under Alternative 2. Yosemite Lodge would be retained, rather 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 3 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-785

than converted to day use with a campground to the west as under alternative 2. However, these areas 

are in existing developed areas. 

While Alternative 3 would retain more campground and overnight accommodations compared with 

Alternative 2, restoration activities and reduced visitor capacity would improve the scenic quality of 

Segment 2 and reduce ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural resources of the area that could result 

in secondary effects on the scenic quality of the area. Implementation of management actions related 

to visitor use management and facilities under Alternative 3 would result in local, long-term, moderate, 

beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Curry Village and Campground. The park would retain 355 guest units at Curry Village. The park 

would remove campsites from Lower Pines (15), North Pines (34), and Upper Pines (2). In addition, 

the park would discontinue commercial day rides from the Curry Village Stables. These actions would 

collectively result in a reduction in human-made structures in the Curry Village and Campground 

areas, and a return to more natural conditions. The impact on scenic resources would, therefore, be 

local, long-term, minor, and beneficial. 

Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. The park would reroute Northside Drive to the south of the Yosemite 

Village day-use parking area, reconfigure the lot to accommodate a total of 550 parking spaces north of 

the road, and install walkways leading to Yosemite Village. As these actions would occur within 

already developed areas and not obstruct scenic vistas, the impacts upon scenic resources would be 

local, long-term, negligible, and adverse. 

Camp 4 and Yosemite Lodge. The park would move on-grade pedestrian crossing to west of the 

Northside Drive and Yosemite Lodge Drive, relocate the existing bus drop-off area to the Highland 

Court area to accommodate loading/unloading for 3 busses, and redevelop an area west of Yosemite 

Lodge to provide an additional parking for 150 automobiles and 15 tour busses. Additional parking at 

Highland Court and Yosemite Lodge would bring more visitors and vehicles into these areas. In the 

latter case, the proposed actions would increase the development footprint within the area. However, 

as these actions would occur within already developed areas and not obstruct scenic vistas, the impacts 

upon scenic resources would be local, long-term, minor, and adverse. 

Segment 2 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values would result in local, longterm moderate to major, beneficial impacts on scenic resources within Segment 2. Actions to manage 

user capacities, land use, and facilities would also have local, long-term, moderate, beneficial impacts 

on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced River Gorge and El Portal 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values

Within Segment 4, the park would establish a 2.25-acre oak recruitment zone in the vicinity of Odger’s 

fuel storage area and adjacent parking lots. Parking would be prohibited within the trees’ drip lines, 

and new building construction would be prohibited within the oak recruitment zone. These measures 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-786 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

would have a local, long-term, minor, beneficial impact on scenic resources in the vicinity of the 

former fuel station in Segment 4. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

New low- and medium-density housing and parking would be constructed as infill development in 

Rancheria, outside the 100-year floodplain. These actions would increase the number of human-made 

structures in the area. However, these areas are currently developed, and the addition of these 

structures would not substantially decrease the scenic quality of the area. Overall, visitor use would be 

reduced from existing conditions, which would reduce the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on 

the natural resources and associated secondary effects on the scenic quality of the area. 

Implementation of these actions would result in local, long-term, negligible to minor, adverse impacts 

on the scenic resources of Segment 4. Implementation of these actions would result in local, long-term, 

minor, adverse impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 4. 

Segments 3 & 4 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values would result in local, 

long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 4. Actions to manage user 

capacities, land use, and facilities would also have local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on the 

scenic resources of Segments 3 & 4. 

Segments 5, 6, 7, and 8: South Fork Merced River 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Actions to protect and enhance river values within Segment 7 include removal of the Wawona Golf 

Course. Implementation of these management actions would improve the scenic quality of the 

restoration areas. In particular, the restored golf course restoration area would be visible from 

Chowchilla Road, Highway 41, and vista points along that road. The impact on scenic resources of 

Segment 7 would be local, long-term, moderate, and beneficial. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Visitor- and facilities-related actions that would occur within Segments 6 and 7 involve the removal of 

campsites, changes to visitor and administrative facilities, and various visitor access and transportation 

improvements within Segment 7., Reduced visitor capacity would improve the scenic quality of the 

segments and reduce ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural resources of the area, and associated 

secondary effects on the scenic quality of the area. Implementation of these management actions 

would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 5–8. 

Wawona Campground. Under Alternative 3, the park would reduce the size of the Wawona 

Campground. Twenty seven campsites, or 28% of all campsites within Wawona, would be removed 

from the floodplain. These actions would further reduce visitation and the number of human-made 

structures in the vicinity, and restore the area to more natural conditions. The resulting impact on 

scenic resources within Segment 7 would be local, long-term, minor, and beneficial. 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 3 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-787

Segments 5-8 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values would result in local, 

long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 5-8. Actions to 

manage user capacities, land use, and facilities would also have local, long-term, minor to moderate, 

beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 5–8. 

Summary of Impacts from Alternative 3: Dispersed Visitor Experiences and Extensive 

Riverbank Restoration 

Alternative 3 would include a substantial number of restoration actions that would improve the 

appearance of riverbanks, meadows, and riparian vegetation, and a number of actions that would 

result in removal of human-made structures and paved/graded areas. These actions would improve the 

scenic quality of restoration areas and views of the river and meadows in the vicinity of restoration 

areas. In addition, views from scenic vistas with restoration areas in the foreground would be 

improved. New facilities or structures included in management actions are proposed in existing 

developed areas and would not result in reduced scenic quality. In addition, visitor use capacity 

management would be implemented, resulting in visitor use substantially lower than existing levels, 

which would reduce the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on natural resources that could 

result in secondary effects on scenic resources. Overall, with implementation of MM-VEX-2, as 

appropriate, (see Appendix C), Alternative 3 would result in local, long-term, moderate to major, 

beneficial impacts on scenic resources. 

Cumulative Impacts from Alternative 3: Dispersed Visitor Experiences and Extensive 

Riverbank Restoration 

The discussion of cumulative impacts to scenic resources is based on analysis of past, present, and 

reasonably foreseeable actions in the Yosemite region in combination with the potential effects of 

Alternative 3. The projects identified below include those projects that have the potential to affect the 

scenic resources of the Merced River. 

Past, Present and Reasonably Foreseeable Actions 

Past, present and reasonably foreseeable actions that would contribute towards cumulative effects 

towards scenic resources under this alternative are the same as those listed for Alternative 1. 

Overall Cumulative Impact 

Overall development and recreational uses in the Merced River watershed have resulted in moderate 

localized, long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts on scenic resources. A number of past, 

present, and future projects have beneficially limited uses through planning or restored vegetation and 

riverbanks, and management of vegetation that is blocking scenic views, although the overall impact 

remains adverse. Alternative 3 would result in local, long-term, moderate to major, beneficial impacts 

on scenic resources related to restoration activities throughout the planning area, removal of humanmade structures, and reduced visitor use capacity which result in overall improvement in the scenic 

quality of the planning area. Cumulatively, the impact on scenic resources would be local, long-term, 

moderate, and beneficial. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-788 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Environmental Consequences of Alternative 4: Resource-based Visitor Experiences 

and Targeted Riverbank Restoration 

All River Segments 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

As discussed in the natural resources impact sections and similar to Alternative 2, Alternative 4 would 

result in reduced park visitation compared to Alternative (No Action), which would reduce the potential 

for ongoing visitor use impacts on natural resources, such as creation of informal trails, trampling of 

vegetation, and increased bank erosion. These visitor use impacts results in secondary scenic resources 

impacts where affected natural resources areas are in scenic views or are the foreground to scenic 

resources. However, visitor use numbers would only be slightly reduced compared with Alternative 1 

(No Action) and more visitation would result compared with Alternative 2. Visitor use management 

strategies would result in higher visitation than would occur under Alternative 2. Therefore, secondary 

impacts on scenic resources would not be improved to the same degree as Alternative 2 but could be 

improved compared to existing conditions. 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Under Alternative 4, the Little Yosemite Valley Campground would be retained, rather than restoring 

the entire designated camping area and converting it to dispersed camping as under Alternative 2. 

Restoration and prohibitions on grazing of Merced Lake East Meadow, along with other general 

restoration activities would improve the scenic quality of the area, but not to the degree as would 

occur under Alternative 2. Therefore, improvement in scenic quality in Segment 1 would be less under 

Alternative 4 than under Alternative 2 because areas of barren ground, designated camping areas, and 

other human-made structures would be retained (and expanded at the Merced Lake Backpackers 

Camping Area), and therefore less restoration would be implemented. While more campground sites 

would be retained with Alternative 4 than with Alternative 2, restoration activities and reduced visitor 

capacity would improve the scenic quality of Segment 1 and reduce ongoing visitor use impacts on the 

natural resources of the area, which could result in secondary effects on the scenic quality of the area. 

Implementation of management actions related to visitor use management and facilities under 

Alternative 4 would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of 

Segment 1. Merced Lake High Sierra Camp. The park would close the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp 

and removal all infrastructure, convert the area to designated Wilderness, and restoration of the 

former camp area to natural conditions. Implementation of these actions would remove human-made 

structures that detract from the scenic quality of the Merced Lake area. Upon completion of 

restoration activities, the Merced Lake area would be more natural in appearance, as viewed from the 

Merced Lake Trail and the visitor use areas that would be retained. Views of Merced Lake shoreline 

and meadows would be improved where restoration areas are in the foreground, as well as views of 

peaks where restored areas are in the foreground. The resulting impacts on the scenic character of 

Segment 1 would be local, long-term, minor to moderate, and beneficial. 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 4 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-789

Segment 1 Impact Summary: Implementation of management actions related to visitor use 

management and facilities under Alternative 4 would result in local, long-term, minor to moderate, 

beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 1. 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Actions under Alternative 4 in Segment 2 would be similar to Alternative 2 and would also result in an 

overall improvement in the scenic quality of this segment. For many actions, the meadow or riverbank 

restoration approach proposed under Alternative 4 would be different than that proposed under 

Alternative 2. In addition, slightly less road and trail removal/relocation would occur. However, the 

scenic quality of the restoration areas following restoration activities would be similarly improved. 

Implementation of management actions related to protecting and enhancing river values under 

Alternative 4 (including actions common to all alternatives) would result in local, long-term, minor to 

moderate, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

A greater number of units would be retained under Alternative 4 than under Alternative 2. In addition, 

a recreational vehicle campground and a walk-in campground would be developed. However, 

riverbank, riparian, and other restoration actions would be implemented as under Alternative 2. The 

proposed expanded campground is in a heavily wooded area, but could be seen from the bicycle path 

adjacent to the river and Happy Isles Loop Road. The riverbank downstream of Stoneman Bridge 

would be restored; however, the bridge would be retained. Views of the Merced River with these areas 

in the foreground would not be improved under Alternative 4 to the same degree as Alternative 2, 

including views from Happy Isles bridge (Scenic Vista point 14), Clark’s Bridge (Scenic Vista point 7), 

Housekeeping footbridge (Scenic Vista point 92), Housekeeping Beach (Scenic Vista point 26), 

Housekeeping Bridge Trail, Southside Drive, and the adjacent bicycle path and trails that cross the 

area. In addition, views of North Dome, Glacier Point, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and Cathedral 

Rocks from the scenic vista points with the campground areas in the foreground would be not be 

improved to the same degree under Alternative 4 as under Alternative 2. 

In Curry Village, a greater number of lodging units and parking spaces would be retained under 

Alternative 4 than under Alternative 2. Yosemite Lodge would be retained, rather than converted to 

day use as under Alternative 2, and a campground would be developed. However, these areas are in 

existing developed areas. 

While Alternative 4 would retain more campground and overnight accommodations compared with 

Alternative 2, restoration activities and maintained visitor capacity would improve the scenic quality of 

Segment 2 and maintain ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural resources of the area that could 

result in secondary effects on the scenic quality of Segment 2. Implementation of management actions 

related to visitor use management and facilities under Alternative 4 would result in local, long-term, 

minor to moderate, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-790 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Curry Village and Campground. The park would retain 355 guest units and construct a new 40 site 

campground at Curry Village. The park would remove campsites from Lower Pines (15), North Pines 

(34), and Upper Pines (2). New structures would be constructed in an already developed area, 

generally within previously developed sites. These actions would collectively result in a reduction in 

human-made structures in the Curry Village and Campground areas, and a return to more natural 

conditions. The impact on scenic resources would, therefore, be local, long-term, minor, and 

beneficial. 

Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. The park would improve the configuration of and on-grade 

pedestrian crossing at the Northside Drive-Yosemite Village Drive intersection, shift the parking area 

north and redevelop a portion of the former administrative footprint to accommodate 750 parking 

spaces, and install a new three-way intersection connecting the parking lot to Sentinel Drive. 

Additional parking at Camp 6 would bring more visitors and vehicles into these areas. However, as the 

project would occur within the footprint of an already developed area, and not obstruct scenic vistas, 

the impacts upon scenic resources would be local, long-term, minor, and adverse. 

Camp 4 and Yosemite Lodge. The park would design a pedestrian underpass, relocate the existing 

bus drop-off area to the Highland Court area to accommodate loading/unloading for 3 busses, and 

redevelop an area west of Yosemite Lodge to provide an additional parking for 150 automobiles and 

15 tour busses. Additional parking at Highland Court and Yosemite Lodge would bring more visitors 

and vehicles into these areas. In the latter case, the proposed actions would increase the development 

footprint within the area. However, as these actions would occur within already developed areas and 

not obstruct scenic vistas, the impacts upon scenic resources would be local, long-term, minor, and 

adverse. 

Segment 2 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values would result in local, longterm minor to moderate, beneficial impacts on scenic resources within Segment 2. Actions to manage 

user capacities, land use, and facilities would also have local, long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial 

impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced River Gorge and El Portal 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Within Segment 4, the park would establish a 1-acre oak recruitment zone in the vicinity of Odger’s 

fuel storage area and adjacent parking lots. Parking would be prohibited within the trees’ drip lines, 

and new building construction would be prohibited within the oak recruitment zone. These measures 

would have a local, long-term, negligible, beneficial impact on scenic resources in the vicinity of the 

former fuel station in Segment 4. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

New high-density housing and parking would be constructed as infill development in Rancheria, outside 

the 100-year floodplain. These actions would increase the number of human-made structures in the 

area. However, these areas are currently developed, and the addition of these structures would not 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 4 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-791

substantially decrease the scenic quality of the area. Overall, visitor use would be reduced from 

existing conditions, which would reduce the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural 

resources and associated secondary effects on the scenic quality of the area. Implementation of these 

actions would result in local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 4. 

Segments 3 & 4 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values would result in local, 

long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 4. Actions to manage user 

capacities, land use, and facilities would also have local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on the 

scenic resources of Segment 4. 

Segments 5, 6, 7, and 8: South Fork Merced River 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Visitor- and facilities-related actions that would occur within Segments 6 and 7 involve the removal of 

campsites, changes to visitor and administrative facilities, and various visitor access and transportation 

improvements within Segment 7. These actions would be expected to decrease overall visitation within 

this Segments 5-8. As a result, the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural resources of 

Segments 5–8, and associated secondary effects on the scenic quality of these segments would be 

reduced. Implementation of these actions would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts 

on the scenic resources of Segments 5–8. 

Wawona Campground. Under Alternative 4, the park would reduce the size of the Wawona 

Campground. Twenty-seven campsites, or 28% of all campsites within Wawona, would be removed 

from the floodplain. These actions would further reduce visitation and the number of human-made 

structures in the vicinity, and restore the area to more natural conditions. The resulting impact on 

scenic resources within Segment 7 would be local, long-term, minor, and beneficial. 

Segments 5-8 Impact Summary: Actions to manage user capacities, land use, and facilities would also 

have local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 5–8. 

Summary of Impacts from Alternative 4: Resource-based Visitor Experiences and Targeted 

Riverbank Restoration 

A substantial number of restoration actions under Alternative 4 would improve the appearance of 

riverbanks, meadows, and riparian vegetation and a number of actions would result in removal of 

human-made structures and paved/graded areas. These actions would improve the scenic quality of 

restoration areas and views of the river and meadows in the vicinity of restoration areas. In addition, 

views from scenic vistas with restoration areas in the foreground would be improved. New facilities or 

structures included in management actions are proposed in existing developed areas and would not 

result in overall reduced scenic quality. In addition, visitor use capacity management would be 

implemented, resulting in visitor use being maintained at slightly less than or similar to existing levels, 

which would maintain the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on natural resources, which could 

result in secondary effects on scenic resources. Overall, with implementation of MM-VEX-2, as 

appropriate, (see Appendix C), Alternative 4 would result in local, long-term, minor to moderate, 

beneficial impacts on scenic resources. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-792 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Cumulative Impacts from Alternative 4: Resource-based Visitor Experiences and Targeted 

Riverbank Restoration 

The discussion of cumulative impacts on scenic resources is based on analysis of past, present, and 

reasonably foreseeable actions in the Yosemite region in combination with the potential effects of 

Alternative 4. The projects identified below include those projects that have the potential to affect the 

scenic resources of the Merced River. 

Past, Present and Reasonably Foreseeable Actions 

Past, present and reasonably foreseeable actions that would contribute towards cumulative effects 

towards scenic resources under this alternative are the same as those listed for Alternative 1. 

Overall Cumulative Impact 

Overall development and recreational uses in the Merced River watershed have resulted in localized, 

long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts on scenic resources. A number of past, present, and 

future projects have beneficially limited uses through planning or restored vegetation and riverbanks, 

and management of vegetation that is blocking scenic views, although the overall impact remains 

adverse. Alternative 4 would result in local, long-term, moderate, beneficial impacts on scenic 

resources related to restoration activities throughout the planning area, removal of human-made 

structures, and reduced visitor use capacity, which result in overall improvement in the scenic quality 

of the planning area. Cumulatively, the impact on scenic resources would be local, long term, minor to 

moderate, and beneficial. 

Environmental Consequences of Alternative 5: Enhanced Visitor Experiences and 

Essential Riverbank Restoration 

All River Segments 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

As discussed in the natural resources impact subsections of this chapter, Alternative 5 would result in 

similar park visitation compared to Alternative 1 (No Action) and ongoing visitor use impacts on 

natural resources, such as creation of informal trails, trampling of vegetation, and increased bank 

erosion, which result in secondary scenic resources impacts where affected natural resources areas are 

in scenic views or are the foreground to scenic resources, and these visitor use impacts could continue 

similar to existing conditions. 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Under Alternative 5, the Merced Lake Backpackers Camping Area would be retained. In addition, the 

Little Yosemite Valley and Moraine Dome Camping Areas would be retained, rather than being 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 5 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-793

restored and converted to dispersed camping as under Alternative 2. Wilderness zone capacity would 

be maintained at existing levels. Restoration and restrictions on grazing at Merced Lake East Meadow, 

and other general restoration activities would be implemented. As such, he scenic quality of the area 

would be improved, but not to the degree as would occur under Alternative 2 because the designated 

camping areas would be retained. Therefore, improvement in scenic quality in Segment 1 would be less 

under Alternative 5 than under Alternative 2 because areas of barren ground, designated camping 

areas, and other human-made structures would be retained; therefore, less restoration would be 

implemented. Maintenance of existing wilderness permit numbers could result in ongoing visitor use 

impacts on the natural resources of the area, and associated secondary effects on the scenic quality of 

the area, similar to existing conditions. Implementation of management actions related to visitor use 

management and facilities under Alternative 5 would result in local, long-term, negligible, beneficial 

impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 1. 

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp. The park would reduce the capacity of the Merced Lake High 

Sierra Camp to 42 beds and replace the flush toilets with composting toilets. Continued operation of 

the facility, albeit at reduced capacity, would result in impacts similar to those of Alternative 1 (No 

Action) as the major components of the facility and its visitors would remain. The resulting impact 

would be local, long-term, negligible, and adverse. 

Segment 1 Impact Summary: Actions to manage user capacities, land use, and facilities within 

Segment 1would a have local, long-term, negligible, adverse impacts on scenic resources in Segment 1. 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values

Segment 2 actions under Alternative 5 would be similar to actions under Alternative 2 and would also 

result in an overall improvement in the scenic quality of this segment. For many actions, the meadow 

or riverbank restoration approach proposed under Alternative 5 would be different than under 

Alternative 2. In addition, slightly less road area would be removed at Ahwahnee Meadow. However, 

the scenic quality of the restoration areas after restoration activities would be similarly improved. 

Implementation of management actions related to protecting and enhancing river values under 

Alternative 5 (including actions common to all alternatives) would result in local, long-term, moderate, 

beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

A greater number of campsites would be retained under Alternative 5 than under Alternative 2. In 

addition, an RV campground and a walk-in campground would be developed. However, riverbank, 

riparian, and other restoration actions would be implemented as under Alternative 2. The proposed 

expanded campground is in a heavily wooded area, but could be seen from the bicycle path adjacent to 

the river and Happy Isles Loop Road. Restoration would occur at the former Upper River and Lower 

River campgrounds; however, due to the addition of campsites at Upper River, the total acreage of 

restoration would be less than that of Alternatives 2 through 4. The riverbank downstream of 

Stoneman Bridge would be restored; however, the bridge would be retained. Views of the Merced 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-794 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

River with the these areas in the foreground would not be improved to the same degree as with 

Alternative 2, including views from Happy Isles bridge (Scenic Vista point 14), Clark’s Bridge (Scenic 

Vista point 7), Housekeeping footbridge (Scenic Vista point 92), Housekeeping Beach (Scenic Vista 

point 26), Housekeeping Bridge Trail, Southside Drive, and the adjacent bicycle path and trails that 

cross the area. In addition, views of North Dome, Glacier Point, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and 

Cathedral Rocks from the scenic vista points with the campground areas in the foreground would be 

not be improved under Alternative 5 to the same degree as under Alternative 2. 

In Curry Village, most lodging units and parking spaces would be retained. Yosemite Lodge would be 

retained, rather than converted to day use as under Alternative 2. However, these areas are in existing 

developed areas. 

Valley visitor capacity would be maintained at the same level as existing conditions. While 

Alternative 5 would retain more campground and overnight accommodations compared with 

Alternative 2, restoration activities and maintained visitor capacity would improve the scenic quality of 

Segment 2 and maintain ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural resources of the area that could 

result in secondary effects on the scenic quality of the area. Implementation of management actions 

related to visitor use management and facilities under Alternative 5 would result in local, long-term, 

minor, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Curry Village and Campground. The park would construct 98 hard-sided units at Boys Town, 

bringing the total number of new and retained units at Curry Village to 453. The park would remove 

campsites from Lower Pines (5), North Pines (14), and Upper Pines (2). New structures would be 

constructed in an already developed area, generally within previously developed sites. Campsite 

removal would reduce human-made structures in the Curry Village and Campground areas and return 

them to more natural conditions. The impact on scenic resources would, therefore, be local, longterm, negligible, and beneficial. 

Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. The park would construct a pedestrian underpass and a traffic circle at 

the intersection of Northside and Yosemite Village Drives, shift the parking area north and redevelop 

a portion of the former administrative footprint to accommodate 850 parking spaces, and install a new 

three-way intersection connecting the parking lot to Sentinel Drive. The traffic circle, new 

intersection, and additional parking at Camp 6 would increase the development footprint and bring 

more visitors and vehicles into these areas. However, as these projects would occur largely within the 

footprint of an already developed area, and not obstruct scenic vistas, the impacts upon scenic 

resources would be local, long-term, minor, and adverse. 

Camp 4 and Yosemite Lodge. The park would redevelop the disturbed footprint of the former 

Yosemite Lodge units removed after being damaged by the 1997 flood, design a pedestrian underpass, 

relocate the existing bus drop-off area to the Highland Court area to accommodate loading/unloading 

for 3 busses, and redevelop an area west of Yosemite Lodge to provide an additional parking for 300 

automobiles and 15 tour busses. Additional parking at Highland Court and Yosemite Lodge would 

bring more visitors and vehicles into these areas. In the latter case, the proposed actions would 

increase the development footprint within the area. However, as these actions would occur within 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 5 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-795

already developed areas and not obstruct scenic vistas, the impacts upon scenic resources would be 

local, long-term, minor, and adverse. 

Segment 2 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values would result in local, longterm minor to moderate, beneficial impacts on scenic resources within Segment 2. Actions to manage 

user capacities, land use, and facilities would also have local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on 

the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced River Gorge and El Portal 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Within Segment 4, the park would establish a one-acre oak recruitment zone in the vicinity of Odger’s 

fuel storage area and adjacent parking lots. Parking would be prohibited within the trees’ drip lines, 

and new building construction would be prohibited within the oak recruitment zone. These measures 

would have a local, long-term, negligible, beneficial impact on scenic resources in the vicinity of the 

former fuel station in Segment 4. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

New high-density housing and parking would be constructed as infill development in Rancheria, outside 

the 100-year floodplain. These actions would increase the number of human-made structures in the 

area. However, these areas are currently developed, and the addition of these structures would not 

substantially decrease the scenic quality of the area. Overall, visitor use would be reduced from 

existing conditions, which would reduce the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural 

resources and associated secondary effects on the scenic quality of the area. Implementation of these 

actions would result in local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 4. 

Segments 3 & 4 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values would result in local, 

long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 4. Actions to manage user 

capacities, land use, and facilities would have local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on the scenic 

resources of Segment 4. 

Segments 5, 6, 7, and 8: South Fork Merced River 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Visitor- and facilities-related actions that would occur within Segments 6 and 7 involve the removal of 

campsites, changes to visitor and administrative facilities, and various visitor access and transportation 

improvements within Segment 7. These actions would not be expected to substantially change overall 

visitation within Segments 5-8. As a result, the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural 

resources of Segments 5–8, and associated secondary effects on the scenic quality of these segments 

would be similar to those of Alternative 1 (No Action). Implementation of these actions would result in 

local, long-term, negligible, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 5–8. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-796 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Wawona Campground. Under Alternative 5, the park would reduce the size of the Wawona 

Campground. Thirteen campsites, or 13% of all campsites within Wawona, would be removed from 

the floodplain. These actions would reduce overnight visitation and the number of human-made 

structures in the vicinity, and restore the area to more natural conditions. The resulting impact on 

scenic resources within Segment 7 would be local, long-term, negligible, and beneficial. 

Segments 5-8 Impact Summary: Actions to manage user capacities, land use, and facilities would also 

have local, long-term, negligible, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 5–8. 

Summary of Impacts from Alternative 5: Enhanced Visitor Experiences and Essential 

Riverbank Restoration 

Alternative 5 includes a substantial number of restoration actions that would improve the appearance 

of riverbanks, meadows, and riparian vegetation, and a number of actions that would result in removal 

of human-made structures and paved/graded areas. These actions would improve the scenic quality of 

restoration areas and views of the river and meadows in the vicinity of restoration areas. In addition, 

views from scenic vistas with restoration areas in the foreground would be improved. New facilities or 

structures included in Alternative 5 management actions are proposed in existing developed areas and 

would not result in overall reduced scenic quality. In addition, visitor use capacity management would 

be implemented, which would maintain in visitor use at existing levels and therefore maintain the 

potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on natural resources that could result in secondary effects on 

scenic resources. Overall, with implementation of MM-VEX-2, as appropriate, (see Appendix C), 

Alternative 5 would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on scenic resources. 

Cumulative Impacts from Alternative 5: Enhanced Visitor Experiences and Essential 

Riverbank Restoration 

The discussion of cumulative impacts on scenic resources is based on analysis of past, present, and 

reasonably foreseeable actions in the Yosemite region in combination with the potential effects of 

Alternative 5. The projects identified below have the potential to affect the scenic resources of the 

Merced River. 

Past, Present and Reasonably Foreseeable Actions 

Past, present and reasonably foreseeable actions that would contribute towards cumulative effects 

towards scenic resources under this alternative are the same as those listed for Alternative 1. 

Overall Cumulative Impact 

Overall development and recreational uses in the Merced River watershed have resulted in localized, 

long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts on scenic resources. A number of past, present, and 

future projects have beneficially limited uses through planning or restored vegetation and riverbanks, 

and management of vegetation that is blocking scenic views, although the overall impact remains 

adverse. Alternative 5 would result in local, long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial impacts on scenic 

resources related to restoration activities throughout the planning area, removal of human-made 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 5 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-797

structures, and reduced visitor use capacity, which could result in overall improvement in the scenic 

quality of the planning area. Cumulatively, the impact on scenic resources would be local, long term, 

minor to moderate, and beneficial. 

Environmental Consequences of Alternative 6: Diversified Visitor Experiences and 

Selective Riverbank Restoration 

All River Segments 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

As discussed in the natural resources impact subsections of this chapter, Alternative 6 would 

accommodate an increase in park visitation compared with Alternative 1 (No Action) and ongoing 

visitor use impacts on natural resources, such as creation of informal trails, trampling of vegetation, 

and increased bank erosion. These visitor use impacts would result in secondary scenic resources 

impacts where affected natural resources areas are in scenic views or are the foreground to scenic 

resources and could continue similar to existing conditions. 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

The Merced Lake Backpackers, Little Yosemite Valley, and the Moraine Dome Camping Areas would be 

retained, rather than being restored and converted to dispersed camping as under Alternative 2. 

Wilderness zone capacity would be maintained at existing levels. Restoration and grazing restrictions at 

Merced Lake East Meadow, and other general restoration activities would be implemented. As such, the 

scenic quality of the area would be improved, but not to the degree as would occur under Alternative 2 

because of the retention of designated camping areas. Therefore, improvement in scenic quality in 

Segment 1 would be less under Alternative 6 than under Alternative 2 because areas of barren ground, 

designated camping areas, and other human-made structures would be retained and, therefore, less 

restoration would be implemented. Maintenance of existing Wilderness permit numbers could result in 

ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural resources of Segment 1 that could result in secondary effects 

on the scenic quality of the area, similar to existing conditions. Implementation of management actions 

related to visitor use management and facilities under Alternative 6 would result in local, long-term, 

negligible, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 1. 

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp. Continued operation of the facility would result in impacts similar 

to those of Alternative 1 (No Action). The resulting impact would be local, long-term, negligible, and 

beneficial. 

Segment 1 Impact Summary: Actions to manage user capacities, land use, and facilities within 

Segment 1would a have local, long-term, negligible, beneficial impacts on scenic resources in 

Segment 1. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-798 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values

Segment 2 actions under Alternative 6 would be similar to Alternative 2 and would also result in an 

overall improvement in the scenic quality of Segment 2. For many actions, the meadow or riverbank 

restoration approach proposed under Alternative 6 would be different than under Alternative 2. In 

addition, slightly less road area would be removed at Ahwahnee Meadow. However, the scenic quality 

of the restoration areas after restoration activities would be similarly improved. Implementation of 

management actions related to protecting and enhancing river values under Alternative 6 (including 

actions common to all alternatives) would result in local, long-term, moderate, beneficial impacts on 

the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

A greater number of campsites would be retained under Alternative 6 than under Alternative 2. In 

addition, an RV campground and a walk-in campground would be developed. However, riverbank, 

riparian, and other restoration actions would be implemented, as under Alternative 2. The proposed 

expanded campground is in a heavily wooded area but could be seen from the bicycle path adjacent to 

the river and Happy Isles Loop Road. The riverbank downstream of Stoneman and Sugar Pine bridges 

would be restored; however, the bridges would be retained. Restoration would occur at the former 

Upper River and Lower River campgrounds; however, approximately half the acreage of restoration 

would be implemented compared to Alternatives 2 through 4. Views of the river with the these areas in 

the foreground would not be improved under Alternative 6 to the same degree as under Alternative 2, 

including views from Happy Isles bridge (Scenic Vista point 14), Clark’s Bridge (Scenic Vista point 7), 

Housekeeping footbridge (Scenic Vista point 92), Housekeeping Beach (Scenic Vista point 26), 

Housekeeping Bridge Trail, Southside Drive, and the adjacent bicycle path and trails that cross this 

area of Segment 2. In addition, views of North Dome, Glacier Point, Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, and 

Cathedral Rocks from the scenic vista points with the campground areas in the foreground would be 

not be improved under Alternative 6 to the same degree as under Alternative 2. 

In Curry Village, most lodging units and parking spaces would be retained. Yosemite Lodge would be 

retained, rather than converted to day use as under Alternative 2. These areas are in existing developed 

areas. 

The Valley visitor capacity would increase compared with Alternative 1 (No Action). Alternative 6 

would retain more campground and overnight accommodations compared with Alternative 2, and 

ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural resources of the area could result in secondary effects on 

the scenic quality of the area could increase compared to Alternative 2. However, extensive meadow 

and riverbank restoration would be implemented. Implementation of management actions related to 

visitor use management and facilities under Alternative 6 would result in local, long-term, minor 

beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Curry Village and Campground. The park would construct 98 hard-sided units at Boys Town, 

bringing the total number of new and retained units at Curry Village to 453. The park would remove 

campsites from Lower Pines (5), North Pines (14), and Upper Pines (2). New structures would be 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-799

constructed in an already developed area, generally within previously developed sites. Campsite 

removal would reduce human-made structures in the Curry Village and Campground areas and return 

them to more natural conditions. The impact on scenic resources would, therefore, be local, longterm, negligible, and beneficial. 

Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. The park would expand the Concessioner Warehouse Building to 

accommodate Concessioner General Office functions, construct a pedestrian underpass and two 

roundabouts, shift the parking area north and redevelop a portion of the former administrative 

footprint to accommodate 850 parking spaces, and install a new three-way intersection connecting the 

parking lot to Sentinel Drive. The administrative facilities expansion, roundabout, new intersection, 

and additional parking at Camp 6 would increase the development footprint and bring more visitors 

and vehicles into these areas. However, as these projects would occur largely within the footprint of an 

already developed area, and not obstruct scenic vistas, the impacts upon scenic resources would be 

local, long-term, minor, and adverse. 

Camp 4 and Yosemite Lodge. The park would design a pedestrian underpass, relocate the existing 

bus drop-off area to the Highland Court area to accommodate loading/unloading for 3 busses, and 

redevelop an area west of Yosemite Lodge to provide an additional parking for 300 automobiles and 

15 tour busses. Additional parking at Highland Court and Yosemite Lodge would bring more visitors 

and vehicles into these areas. In the latter case, the proposed actions would increase the development 

footprint within the area. However, as these actions would occur within already developed areas and 

not obstruct scenic vistas, the impacts upon scenic resources would be local, long-term, minor, and 

adverse. 

Segment 2 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values would result in local, longterm, minor, beneficial impacts on scenic resources within Segment 2. Actions to manage user 

capacities, land use, and facilities would have local, long-term, negligible, beneficial impacts on the 

scenic resources of Segment 2. 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced River Gorge and El Portal. 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Within Segment 4, the park would establish a 1-acre oak recruitment zone in the vicinity of Odger’s 

fuel storage area and adjacent parking lots. Parking would be prohibited within the trees’ drip lines, 

and new building construction would be prohibited within the oak recruitment zone. These measures 

would have a local, long-term, negligible, beneficial impact on scenic resources in the vicinity of the 

former fuel station in Segment 4. 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

New high-density housing and parking would be constructed as infill development in Rancheria and 

Abbieville, outside the 100-year floodplain. These actions would increase the number of human-made 

structures in the area. However, these areas are currently developed, and the addition of these structures 

would not substantially decrease the scenic quality of the area. Overall, visitor use would be reduced 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-800 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

from existing conditions, which would reduce the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on the 

natural resources and associated secondary effects on the scenic quality of the area. Implementation of 

these actions would result in local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on the scenic resources of 

Segment 4. 

Segments 3 & 4 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values would result in local, 

long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segment 4. Actions to manage user 

capacities, land use, and facilities would also have local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on the scenic 

resources of Segment 4. 

Segments 5, 6, 7, and 8: South Fork Merced River 

Impacts of Actions to Manager User Capacity, Land Use, and Facilities 

Visitor- and facilities-related actions that would occur within Segments 6 and 7 involve the removal of 

campsites, changes to visitor and administrative facilities, and various visitor access and transportation 

improvements within Segment 7. These actions would not be expected to substantially change overall 

visitation within Segments 5-8. As a result, the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on the natural 

resources of Segments 5–8, and associated secondary effects on the scenic quality of these segments 

would be similar to those of Alternative 1 (No Action). Implementation of these actions would result in 

local, long-term, negligible, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 5–8. 

Wawona Campground. Under Alternative 6, the park would reduce the size of the Wawona 

Campground. Thirteen campsites, or 13% of all campsites within Wawona, would be removed from 

the floodplain. These actions would reduce overnight visitation and the number of human-made 

structures in the vicinity, and restore the area to more natural conditions. The resulting impact on 

scenic resources within Segment 7 would be local, long-term, negligible, and beneficial. 

Segments 5-8 Impact Summary: Actions to manage user capacities, land use, and facilities would also 

have local, long-term, negligible, beneficial impacts on the scenic resources of Segments 5–8. 

Summary of Impacts from Alternative 6: Diversified Visitor Experiences and Selective 

Riverbank Restoration 

Alternative 6 includes a substantial number of restoration actions that would improve the appearance 

of riverbanks, meadows, and riparian vegetation, and a number of actions that would result in removal 

of human-made structures and paved/graded areas. These actions would improve the scenic quality of 

restoration areas, and views of the river and meadows in the vicinity of restoration areas. In addition, 

views from scenic vistas with restoration areas in the foreground would be improved. New facilities or 

structures included in management actions are primarily proposed in existing developed areas and 

would not result in overall reduced scenic quality. Visitor use capacity management would increase, 

which could increase the potential for ongoing visitor use impacts on natural resources of that could 

result in secondary effects on scenic resources. Overall, with implementation of MM-VEX-2, as 

appropriate, (see Appendix C), Alternative 6 would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts 

on scenic resources. 
Analysis Topics: Sociocultural Resources 

Scenic Resources – Alternative 6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-801

Cumulative Impacts from Alternative 6: Diversified Visitor Experiences and Selective 

Riverbank Restoration 

The discussion of cumulative impacts on scenic resources is based on analysis of past, present, and 

reasonably foreseeable actions in the Yosemite region in combination with the potential effects of 

Alternative 6. The projects identified below include those projects that have the potential to affect the 

scenic resources of the Merced River. 

Past, Present and Reasonably Foreseeable Actions 

Past, present and reasonably foreseeable actions that would contribute towards cumulative effects 

towards scenic resources under this alternative are the same as those listed for Alternative 1. 

Overall Cumulative Impact 

Overall development and recreational uses in the Merced River watershed have resulted in localized, 

long-term, minor to moderate, adverse impacts on scenic resources. A number of past, present, and 

future projects have beneficially limited uses through planning or restored vegetation and riverbanks 

and management of vegetation that is blocking scenic views, although the overall impact remains 

adverse. Alternative 6 would result in local, long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial impacts on scenic 

resources related to restoration activities throughout the planning area, removal of human-made 

structures, and reduced visitor use capacity, which result in overall improvement in the scenic quality 

of the planning area. Cumulatively, the impact on scenic resources would be local, long term, minor, 

and beneficial. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-802 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

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