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Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-337

Wildlife 

Affected Environment 

Regulations and Policies Pertaining to Wildlife 

Executive Order 13186 (Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds), issued in 

January 2001, restated the value of migratory birds and directed agencies to develop and implement 

memoranda of understanding with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to protect them. The 

National Park Service (NPS) memorandum of understanding requires park units to restore and 

enhance migratory bird habitat and support conservation of migratory birds. Under the Migratory 

Bird Treaty Act of 1918, it is unlawful to kill, capture, buy, sell, import, or export migratory birds, eggs, 

feathers, or other parts. Additionally, under 36 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 2.2, the following 

wildlife protection measures are prohibited: the taking of wildlife; the feeding, touching, teasing, 

frightening, or intentional disturbing of wildlife nesting, breeding, or other activities; and possessing 

unlawfully taken wildlife or portions thereof. 

Executive Order 13112 (“Invasive Species”), issued in February 1999, established the National Invasive 

Species Council. The Executive Order requires the creation of a Council of Departments to provide 

consultation to federal agencies in matters related to invasive species. Federal agencies whose actions 

may affect the status of invasive species are required to identify such actions, use relevant programs 

and authorities to prevent the introduction of invasive species; detect, respond, control, and monitor 

populations of such species; and provide for restoration of native species and habitats that were 

invaded. Additionally, federal agencies are not authorized to fund or carry out actions that are likely to 

cause or promote the introduction or spread of invasive species in the United States or elsewhere, 

unless the agency has determined and made public its determination that the benefits of such actions 

clearly outweigh the potential harm caused by invasive species; and that all feasible and prudent 

measures to minimize the risk of harm would be taken in conjunction with the actions. Federal 

agencies shall carry out actions that would potentially affect the status of invasive species in 

consultation with the Invasive Species Council, consistent with the Invasive Species Management Plan, 

and in cooperation with stakeholders, as appropriate. 

Additional Federal and state laws and regulations to protect special status wildlife include: 

 Endangered Species Act (ESA) 

 Migratory Bird Treaty Act

 Bald Eagle and Golden Eagle Protection Act

 Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 1934 (as amended) 

 National Park Service Regulations and Policies (NPS Organic Act of 1916, NPS Management 

Policies 2006 (NPS 2006), and NPS Natural Resource Management Reference Manual 77) 

 North American Wildlife Conservation Model 
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 California Endangered Species Act 

 California Fish and Game Code (for the protection of birds) 

Refer to the Regulations and Policies Pertaining to Special Status Species in the Special Status Species 

Section for a discussion of federal and state laws and regulations pertaining to wildlife that are legally 

protected or designated “rare” under the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973, California 

Endangered Species Act, or other regulations. 

Yosemite National Park Regional Wildlife 

Yosemite National Park, which is one of the largest and least-fragmented habitat blocks in the Sierra 

Nevada range, supports a diverse and abundant assemblage of wildlife. Its importance in protecting 

the long-term survival of certain species and the overall biodiversityof wildlife in the Sierra Nevada 

region was recognized in the reports prepared as part of the Sierra Nevada Ecosystem Project 

(UC Davis 1996). The Sierra Nevada Ecosystem Project included assessments of the Sierra Nevada 

headwaters of 23 major river basins in addition to the Merced River, from Eagle Lake in the north to 

the Mojave River in the south. As part of these assessments, much of the main stem of the Merced 

River corridor and the South Fork Merced River corridor were identified as an aquatic diversity 

management area (UC Davis 1996). 

The Merced River corridor also plays an essential ecological role in linking wildlife habitats across the 

park’s landscape and gradients of elevation; it represents a critical migration corridor for many wildlife 

species. This fact forms an important part of the framework for this analysis. For wildlife populations 

to be viable, resources and environmental conditions must be sufficient for foraging, resting, cover, 

and dispersal of animals. Patterns, types, and amounts of resources must be sufficient for the needs of 

reproductive individuals on daily, seasonal, and yearly scales. Habitat must also be well-distributed 

over a broad geographic area to allow breeding individuals to interact spatially within and among 

populations, and a stable, relatively undisturbed riparian corridor supplies a mechanism for this kind 

of ecological connection. 

Mammals 

Approximately 85 native mammal species in 6 families inhabit Yosemite. There are 17 species of bats, 

5 of which are either state or federal species of special concern (see the “Special Status Species” section 

of this chapter). Ungulates in the park include mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) and the federal and 

state endangered Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis). Bighorn sheep historically populated 

the Sierra Nevada crest and the Cathedral Range in Yosemite. It is highly unlikely that they currently 

occupy the Merced River corridor watershed (NPS 2011a), although some rams may occasionally 

enter the Merced River corridor. Bighorn sheep critical habitat, as (designated in 2008 by the USFWS, 

does not occur within the Merced River corridor. Currently, a recovery unit of approximately 40 

animals is located at high elevations in the northeastern section of Yosemite and the adjacent Inyo 

National Forest. Growth of this population is critical for the species to reoccupy their former range in 

the park. Carnivores include black bears (Ursus americanus), bobcats (Lynx rufus), coyotes (Canis 

latrans), raccoons (Procyon lotor), mountain lions (Puma concolor), ringtails (Bassariscus astutus), 

weasels (Mustela frenata), and gray foxes (Urocyon cinereoargenteus). Yosemite’s largest mammal, the 
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grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis), was extirpated from the region and from the state in the 1920s. 

Other mammal species that survive but are extremely rare are the fisher (Martes pennanti), wolverine 

(Gulo gulo) (possibly extirpated from the region), and Sierra Nevada red fox (Vulpes vulpes necator). A 

recent study (Espinoza et al. 2011) of habitat adjacent to the Merced River in Yosemite Valley 

predicted a total of 68 mammal species are expected to occur in this segment of the Merced River 

corridor. 

Birds 

Yosemite’s wide range of elevations and habitats support a diversity of bird species. The 2011 study 

(Espinoza et al. 2011) on wildlife conditions within the Merced River corridor in Yosemite Valley 

predicted 218 bird species are expected to occur in Segment 2 of the Merced River corridor. Several 

bird species likely to have been reduced in Yosemite Valley by centuries of human activity are present 

in less disturbed areas. For example, Valley meadows are suitable habitat for great gray owls (Strix 

nebulosa), and the species persists in other meadows, although sightings in the Valley are very rare. 

Willow flycatchers (Empidonax tarilllii) no longer nest in the park, including Yosemite Valley; the most 

recent observations within the Merced River corridor occurred in the 1970s (NPS 2011a). The spread 

of cowbirds into the Sierra Nevada has been associated with human disturbance and activities; brownheaded cowbirds (Molothrus ater) are common in Yosemite and can be found in large numbers at the 

park’s stables and corrals, campgrounds, and residential areas (NPS 2011). Cowbirds are considered 

“nest parasites” that lay eggs in the nests of other bird species, thus adversely affecting their 

reproduction. 

On a wider scale, apparent population declines have been detected in numerous other bird species in 

the Sierra Nevada, including in Yosemite. Possible causes for these declines include grazing, logging, 

fire suppression, development, recreational use, pesticides, habitat destruction on wintering grounds, 

and large-scale climate changes. Although the population declines result from decades of 

development, since the 1980s, park management has focused on reducing or reversing habitat effects 

associated with fire suppression, pesticide use, and other factors on park lands (Cardno ENTRIX 

2011). 

Fish 

Most fish currently found in the Merced River and its tributaries in Yosemite have been introduced. 

Prior to trout-stocking for sport fishing, native fish in Yosemite were probably limited primarily to 

rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and the Sacramento sucker (Catostomus occidentalis), both of 

which are present only in the lower portions (i.e., Yosemite Valley and below) of the Merced River 

(Stillwater Sciences 2008). A series of glaciations eliminated all fish from the high country, and 

waterfalls remaining on all rivers after the glaciers retreated prevented repopulation by upstream 

migration. Fish native to the Merced River in El Portal and downstream include Sacramento 

pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus grandis), hardhead (Mylopharodon conocephalus), California roach 

(Lavinia symmetricus), and riffle sculpin (Cottus gulosus). 

Although the upper watershed of the Merced River was stocked with a variety of nonnative trout until 

1991, Yosemite streams are subject to tremendous fluctuations in flow; these fluctuations, combined 
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with severe climatic conditions, low nutrient availability associated with snowmelt over granitic 

watersheds, and lack of spawning habitat, have restricted natural sustainability of introduced fish in a 

majority of Yosemite’s lakes. Fishery surveys conducted in the mid-1970s found 62 lakes with selfsupporting fish populations and 195 lakes that supported little or no natural reproduction (NPS 1977). 

A more recent survey of lakes, ponds, marshes, and wet meadows was conducted in Yosemite from 

2000 to 2002 (Knapp 2003). This survey found fish present in 245 of 2,655 bodies of water. These 

tended to be large, deep, lakes. 

As discussed in the “Hydrology, Floodplains, and Water Quality” section of this chapter, until recently, 

trees that fell into the Merced River in nonwilderness areas were considered hazardous to bridges and 

humans and removed. This practice deprived fish and other aquatic organisms of important habitat 

and has altered natural river dynamics. Roads, ditches, utilities, and other structures in meadows have 

likely altered meadow hydrology, thus affecting water and nutrient flows into aquatic ecosystems. 

Fallen trees are now allowed to remain in most stretches of the river because of their value to aquatic 

and riparian ecosystems. 

Reptiles and Amphibians 

Compared to most mountain regions of the west, Yosemite has a particularly large number of native 

reptile and amphibian species: 14 snakes (one poisonous), 7 lizards, 1 turtle, 2 toads, 1 tree frog, 3 true 

frogs (1 extirpated, 1 nonnative, and 1 native), and 5 salamanders (including newt and ensatina). The 

2011 study (Espinoza et al. 2011) on wildlife conditions within the Merced River corridor in Yosemite 

Valley predicted 10 amphibian species and 21 reptile species are expected to occur in Segment 2 of the 

Merced River corridor. 

Amphibians in Yosemite have suffered population declines similar to those seen in the rest of the Sierra 

Nevada (Drost and Fellers 1996, Knapp 2003). These declines were first noticed in the 1970s but likely 

began much earlier with the introduction of nonnative fish into park watersheds. Foothill yellow-legged 

frogs (Rana boylii) likely were found in Yosemite Valley in the past but are now apparently extinct in the 

Valley (NPS 2011a). Significant factors in their disappearance probably include reduction in perennial 

ponds and wetlands and predation by bullfrogs (Rana catesbeiana). The fast-growing bullfrog tadpoles 

often out-compete native amphibians, while the large adult bullfrogs are generalist predators that 

consume a broad diversity of native species, including native amphibians (frogs, toads, salamanders), 

small mammals (including bats), reptiles (snakes and turtles), and birds. 

At higher elevations, Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frogs (Rana sierrae) (previously named mountain 

yellow-legged frog) and Yosemite toads (Anaxyrus canorus) are still present in a number of areas but are 

severely reduced in population and range. During the 2000 to 2002 survey of lakes, ponds, marshes, and 

wet meadows in Yosemite, Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frogs were found in 282 of 2,655 bodies of water 

surveyed, and Yosemite toads were found in 74 of 2,655 bodies of water surveyed (Knapp, 2003). 

Foothill yellow-legged frogs have disappeared completely from the park, if not the entire Sierra Nevada; 

Espinoza et al. (2011a) did not detect foothill yellow-legged frogs during their survey efforts, nor has this 

species been detected in the valley since the late 1970s. The suitability of habitat for this species in 

Yosemite Valley is considered low because their distribution generally occurs at lower elevations at this 

latitude (Behler and King 2002, Lannoo 2005). In the status review of the Sierra Nevada yellow-legged 
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Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-341

frog, the California Department of Fish and Game (CDFG) concluded that the introduction of nonnative 

fishes and the infectious disease chytridiomycosis caused by the amphibian chytrid fungus are the 

principal drivers of decline in this species. Research continues to identify the causes of amphibian 

declines in the Sierra Nevada; for Yosemite toads and foothill yellow-legged frogs, possible causes of 

decline include habitat loss, nonnative aquatic species (bullfrogs and fish), pesticides, and diseases. 

Nonnative Wildlife Species 

As with vegetation, the introduction of nonnative species has had significant adverse effects on native 

wildlife species in Yosemite National Park. Nonnative wildlife includes white-tailed ptarmigan 

(Lagopus leucura), wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo), brown-headed cowbird, European starling 

(Sturnus vulgaris), house sparrow (Passer domesticus), brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), brown trout 

(Salmo trutta), cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii), and bullfrog. Feral pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus) 

are regularly observed near the park and could potentially increase their range into the park’s lower 

elevations, especially with climate change. 

Introductions of fishes into the Merced River drainage of Yosemite probably began in the late 1800s with 

transfers of Lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki henshawi), coastal rainbow trout 

(Oncorhynchus mykiss irideus), and California golden trout (Oncorhynchus aguabonita) from nearby 

waters. Rainbow trout is the only trout species native to the Merced River; rainbow trout introduced 

through stocking from other waters and fish hatcheries have now hybridized with, and/or have 

displaced, the original strain. Other species of trout not native to California, including brook trout, 

brown trout, and arctic grayling (Thymallus arcticus), have also been introduced into the Merced River 

drainage. Brown trout seems to have become well established and outnumbers rainbow trout in many 

areas (Stillwater Sciences 2008). Brook trout are found in the main stem and in large numbers in lakes 

and small streams of the Merced River watershed. Fish introductions in higher elevation lakes and 

streams, all of which were naturally fishless, have severely altered those ecosystems. The introduction of 

fish is considered the primary factor in decline of native Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frogs in the Sierra 

Nevada (Drost and Fellers 1996; Knapp 2003). The NPS discontinued fish stocking in Yosemite in 1991. 

The sensitive balance of aquatic ecosystems in Yosemite Valley is likely being disrupted by the 

presence of nonnative bullfrog and signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus). Bullfrogs are voracious, 

nonnative predators that would eat anything smaller than themselves. Recent observations and 

eradication efforts in Yosemite Valley suggest that bullfrogs occupy standing and slow-moving water 

and lower meadow areas throughout the Valley. Signal crayfish are invasive generalist omnivores and 

avid predators on freshwater insects and the eggs and larvae of amphibians. Signal crayfish have also 

recently been observed in the Valley’s meadows. The impact of bullfrogs and signal crayfish on native 

species in the park is not fully understood, but the two species have been implicated in the decline of 

native amphibian and reptile species. The NPS began bullfrog eradication efforts in 2005, which have 

succeeded in substantially reducing the local population (NPS 2011). 

Wild turkeys, which were introduced widely in California by state authorities, are regularly observed 

in Yosemite along its western boundary. The impact of this species on park ecosystems is unknown 

but likely includes predation of small amphibians (i.e., salamanders) and eggs and young of groundnesting birds (e.g., California quail), competition with native species for food, destruction of native 
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plants and reduction of their seedling reproduction rates (especially in oaks), soil and forest litter 

disturbance, and support of unnaturally high predator populations. 

White-tailed ptarmigans were introduced as a game species to high elevation areas of east Yosemite, 

and they have become widespread in the park’s alpine habitats. The impact of the ptarmigan has not 

been determined, but their herbivory likely affects native plants that have a very low rate of growth and 

productivity. 

The European starling and house sparrow are two nonnative species found in El Portal, Yosemite 

Valley, and other developed areas that affect native bird species through competition for nest cavities, 

which is a limited resource. Both species are known to aggressively evict native bird species from 

occupied cavities. The existing development in El Portal has likely increased the abundance of both 

species by providing additional nesting sites and food sources. 

Wildlife of the Merced River 

Wildlife species that occur in the Merced River corridor are expected to be generally representative of 

the wildlife species expected to occur in the park as a whole (THOMPSON 1999). A recent wildlife 

assessment for the portion of the Merced River that flows through Yosemite Valley used California 

Wildlife Habitat Relationships models and validation tools to predict the presence of 317 different 

species (10 amphibians, 21 reptiles, 218 birds, and 68 mammals) in the Valley (NPS 2011). This study 

only looked at montane riparian and wet meadow habitat types in the Valley, so the total number of 

species that occur along the entire Merced River corridor is expected to be higher when species that 

occur only at higher or lower elevations are considered. Table 9-58 provides an overview of the 

species associated with predominant habitat types across the entire Merced River corridor, including 

Yosemite Valley. 

In the broadest sense, the presence and abundance of wildlife species at any site or area depend on the 

structure of the habitat available in that area. Habitat types broadly correlate with vegetation types (or 

plant associations/communities) or general stream classifications. For many wildlife species, there is an 

additional requirement for special habitat attributes, such as cliffs, caves, rocks, lakes or rivers, or 

other abiotic (nonliving) elements. In addition, many species have explicit habitat requirements for 

one or more elements of the biotic environment, such as large trees, large snags (standing dead trees), 

large downed logs, high degrees of canopy closure, or, for fish, pools, riffles, and undercut banks. As 

described in the “Vegetation and Wetlands” section of this chapter, altitude and topography influence 

vegetation patterns throughout the Merced River corridor. These changes in habitat structure 

correlate broadly with the changes in the composition and abundance of wildlife species present 

across the river’s various altitudinal zones (i.e., alpine, subalpine, montane, valley, etc.). 

Overlaid on the overall elevation pattern is a local topographic effect. Where the river flows through 

low-gradient reaches, the valleys tend to be broad and relatively flat and are dominated by denser and 

taller forests than in areas with steeper channel reaches. Thus, locations like Little Yosemite Valley, 

Yosemite Valley, and the Wawona area tend to have taller and more extensive forests than steeper 

sections. The broad valleys in the flat reaches also tend to be associated with lakes, saturated soils, and 

wetlands such as meadows. These wetter areas are important wildlife habitat elements and are 
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TABLE 9-58: SUMMARY OF CALIFORNIA WILDLIFE HABITAT RELATIONSHIP TYPES IN THE MERCED RIVER CORRIDORa

Habitat 

Type 

Dominant 

Plant Species Typical Wildlife Species 

Amount of 

Watershed in 

Habitat type 

Barren Lichens, mosses Mount Lyell salamander, gray-crowned rosy-finch, 

American pipit, rock wren, common raven, Belding’s 

ground squirrel, American pika, yellow-bellied marmot 

8% 

Douglas-Firb Douglas-fir, sugar 

pine, ponderosa pine See Sierran mixed conifer habitat type <1% 

Jeffrey Pine Jeffrey pine, sugar 

pine, lodgepole pine, 

white fir, red fir, 

incense-cedar 

Sagebrush lizard, northern goshawk, red-tailed hawk, 

golden eagle, mountain quail, Lewis’ woodpecker, 

northern flicker, olive-sided flycatcher, western woodpewee, Steller’s jay, lodgepole chipmunk, goldenmantled ground squirrel, striped skunk, black bear, 

gray fox, fisher, bobcat, mule deer 

5% 

Juniper Western juniper, 

Jeffrey pine, 

sagebrush 

Sagebrush lizard, western rattlesnake, Say’s phoebe, 

rock wren, common raven, common nighthawk, 

Townsend’s solitaire, pinion mouse, bushy-tailed 

woodrat, coyote, black bear 

<1% 

Lacustrine Algae, sedges Sierra Nevada yellow-legged frog, western pond turtle, 

western aquatic garter snake, great blue heron, 

mallard, spotted sandpiper, Northern river otter, black 

bear, hardhead, foothill yellow-legged frog, western 

pond turtle 

1% 

Lodgepole 

Pine 

Lodgepole pine, 

aspen, mountain 

hemlock 

Sagebrush lizard, western terrestrial garter snake, 

northern goshawk, red-tailed hawk, American kestrel, 

white-throated swift, Williamson’s sapsucker, olivesided flycatcher, mountain chickadee, pine siskin, deer 

mouse, long-tailed vole, coyote, ermine, long-tailed 

weasel, black bear 

12% 

Montane 

Chaparral 

Huckleberry oak, Sierra 

chinquapin, 

whitethorn ceanothus, 

fremont silktassel, 

bitter cherry 

Gilbert’s skink, southern alligator lizard, red-tailed 

hawk, California quail, mountain quail, bushtit, barn 

swallow, ruby-crowned kinglet, California ground 

squirrel, Botta’s pocket gopher, coyote, California 

pocket mouse, striped skunk, black bear 

<1% 

Montane 

HardwoodConifer 

Douglas-fir, incensecedar, ponderosa 

pine, black oak, bigleaf maple 

Western fence lizard, northern alligator lizard, sharpshinned hawk, Cooper’s hawk, calliope hummingbird, 

red-breasted sapsucker, olive-sided flycatcher, big 

brown bat, coyote, gray fox, long-tailed weasel, 

badger, striped skunk, black bear, Sierra Nevada red 

fox 

<1% 

Montane 

Hardwood 

Canyon live oak, black 

oak, Douglas-fir, 

California laurel 

Northern alligator lizard, red-tailed hawk, American 

kestrel, flammulated owl, Anna’s hummingbird, redbreasted sapsucker, Steller’s jay, northern flicker, 

white-throated swift, big brown bat, California ground 

squirrel, deer mouse, brush mouse, coyote, gray fox, 

long-tailed weasel, striped skunk, black bear 

15% 

Montane 

Riparian 

White alder, black 

cottonwood, willow 

Relictual slender salamander, Pacific chorus frog, 

sharp-tailed snake, red-tailed hawk, mountain quail, 

warbling vireo, western screech-owl, long-eared owl, 

belted kingfisher, cliff swallow, black phoebe, 

American dipper, song sparrow, mountain beaver, 

black bear, Sierra Nevada snowshoe hare 

<1% 
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TABLE 9-58: SUMMARY OF CALIFORNIA WILDLIFE HABITAT RELATIONSHIP TYPES IN THE MERCED RIVER 

CORRIDORa (CONTINUED) 

Habitat 

Type 

Dominant 

Plant Species Typical Wildlife Species 

Amount of 

Watershed in 

Habitat type 

Ponderosa 

Pine 

Ponderosa pine, 

incense-cedar, 

Douglas-fir, white fir, 

canyon live oak, black 

oak, Jeffrey pine, 

sugar pine 

Western fence lizard, western rattlesnake, sharpshinned hawk, American kestrel, acorn woodpecker, 

violet-green swallow, barn swallow, yellow warbler, 

chipping sparrow, California ground squirrel, 

mountain pocket gopher, coyote, striped skunk, black 

bear, California spotted owl 

19% 

Red Fir Red fir Western terrestrial garter snake, red-tailed hawk, 

golden eagle, great gray owl, black swift, olive-sided 

flycatcher, red-breasted sapsucker, golden-mantled 

ground squirrel, deer mouse, bushy-tailed woodrat, 

coyote, long-tailed weasel, black bear, California 

spotted owl 

14% 

Subalpine 

Conifer 

Mountain hemlock, 

lodgepole pine, 

bristlecone pine, 

oceanspray, willows 

Mount Lyell salamander, Yosemite toad, mountain 

yellow-legged frog, golden eagle, dusky flycatcher, 

white-crowned sparrow, Wilson’s warbler, goldenmantled ground squirrel, deer mouse, long-tailed vole, 

yellow-bellied marmot, porcupine, coyote, ermine, black 

bear 

7% 

Sierran Mixed 

Conifer 

White fir, Douglas-fir, 

ponderosa pine, 

incense- cedar, sugar 

pine, black oak 

Western fence lizard, northern alligator lizard, red-tailed 

hawk, American kestrel, western wood-pewee, 

Hammond’s flycatcher, ruby-crowned kinglet, big 

brown bat, long-tailed vole, California ground squirrel, 

deer mouse, coyote, gray fox, ermine, striped skunk, 

black bear, Vaux’s swift, bald eagle, pallid bat, Pacific 

fisher 

13% 

Valley Foothill 

Riparian 

Fremont cottonwood, 

white alder, willow, 

California grape 

Gilbert’s skink, gopher snake, western rattlesnake, 

common merganser, red-shouldered hawk, cliff 

swallow, tree swallow, ash-throated flycatcher, 

American goldfinch, brush mouse, coyote, gray fox, 

striped skunk, black bear, Valley elderberry longhorn 

beetle 

<1% 

White Fir White fir, sugar pine, 

incense-cedar 

Western fence lizard, northern alligator lizard, sharpshinned hawk, great horned owl, black swift, Steller’s 

jay, common raven, fox sparrow, dark-eyed junco, big 

brown bat, Botta’s pocket gopher, deer mouse, brush 

mouse, coyote, ermine, gray fox, striped skunk, 

American badger, black bear 

3% 

Wet Meadow Sedges, rushes, 

willows 

California newt, Yosemite toad, Sierra Nevada yellowlegged frog, California mountain kingsnake, western 

aquatic garter snake, Pacific chorus frog, mallard, great 

blue heron, common snipe, great gray owl, northern 

rough-winged swallow, mountain bluebird, common 

yellowthroat, California meadow vole, montane vole, 

western mastiff bat, yellow-bellied marmot, Sierra 

Nevada mountain beaver, black bear, ermine 

1% 

a Source of original information for California Wildlife Habitat Relationship types and areas within each type in the Merced River basin: 

www.biogeog.ucsb.edu/projects/snner/basins/merc_gapwhr.html. The maps and data files on which this summary was based have not 

been published. b California Wildlife Habitat Relationship by convention does not assign this habitat type to the southern Sierra Nevada. The area assigned 

to this type likely should be assigned to the Sierra Mixed Conifer type. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, and 2011. 
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Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-345

associated with a number of the sensitive species known to occur in the park (see the “Special Status 

Species” section of this chapter). 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

The headwaters of the Merced River originate above 10,000 feet in elevation in the alpine zone—a zone 

typified by scant alpine dwarf-shrub, glacial lakes, alpine meadows, and high-velocity tributaries to the 

Merced River. There are no native fish in the upper Merced River watershed. Birds found in this habitat 

include American pipit (Anthus rubescens) and gray-crowned rosy-finch (Leucosticte tephrocotis); 

mammals include Mount Lyell shrew (Sorex lyelli), alpine chipmunk (Neotamias alpinus), mountain 

pocket gopher (Thomomys monticola), pika (Ochotona princeps), and white-tailed jackrabbit (Lepus 

townsendii). Species that are largely confined to this habitat type are frequently associated with nonliving 

(physical) attributes of the Sierra Nevada. For example, pikas only find suitable habitat near the 

uppermost parts of the Merced River basin and use rock crevices and talus slopes. 

All fish species in the upper watershed of the Merced River above Yosemite Valley have been 

introduced. Rainbow trout and brown trout were commonly stocked in upper watershed lakes 

beginning in the late 1800s. Other species less commonly stocked include the American grayling 

(Thymallus signifer tricolor), cutthroat trout, brook trout, and golden trout. The cutthroat trout 

(probably Lahontan cutthroat trout) and golden trout are both special status species in their native 

watersheds in other locations of the Sierra Nevada range, but appear to have lost their genetic integrity 

through hybridization. Recent surveys indicate that rainbow trout and brown trout are the most 

abundant species in the Merced River corridor but that brook trout are most abundant in the 

watershed overall. In Washburn Lake, a popular wilderness fishing destination, rainbow trout make up 

approximately 20% of the lake’s fish population, while brown trout make up approximately 80% of 

the fish population. 

These higher-elevation forest types have a sparse understory and experience severe winters. 

Seasonally, many species from lower elevations share this habitat: mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), 

mountain lion (Puma concolor), and species such as the mountain chickadee (Poecile gambeli) and the 

brown creeper (Certhia americana). 

As Jeffrey pine (Pinus jeffreyi) becomes more common (below about 7,500 feet), the wildlife habitats 

support more species and higher populations. The Jeffrey pine forest is more productive than the 

subalpine forests, largely due to the food value of the pine seeds. The seeds support a more complex 

small-mammal fauna, which in turn supports the Sierra Nevada’s most elusive predator—the fisher 

(Martes pennanti)—in addition to raptors, including northern goshawks (Accipiter gentilis) and great 

gray owls, all species recorded in or near the Merced River corridor (CDFG 2012). Bird species 

common to this zone include Cassin’s finch (Haemorhous cassinii), Townsend’s solitaire (Myadestes 

townsendi), Lincoln’s sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii), and common raven (Corvus Corax). Mammals 

include Douglas squirrel (Tamiasciurus douglasii), northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys sabrinus), 

golden-mantled ground squirrel (Callospermophilus lateralis), porcupine (Erethizon epixanthum 

epixanthum), and long-tailed weasel. 
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9-346 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

As the river descends into Little Yosemite Valley, wildlife habitat is altered with increased human 

presence. Human alteration of habitat is most pronounced between Nevada Fall and the Little 

Yosemite Valley Backpackers Camping Area. Species adapted to human disturbance, such as black 

bear,(Ursus americanus) are relatively common. More reclusive or specialized species are rare or 

absent. Human use, such as pack stock and development in riparian areas, may also adversely affect 

aquatic habitat for Yosemite toad (NPS 2011a). On the whole, these affected areas represent a small 

portion of Segment 1 of the main stem. 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Yosemite Valley is a broad, U-shaped valley characterized by black oak woodland, lower montane 

mixed coniferous forest, a vigorous riparian corridor along the Merced River, low-elevation meadows, 

and areas of development (Cardno ENTRIX 2011). In Yosemite Valley, the Merced River is broad, 

shallow, and slow-moving (compared to other river stretches). Inside Yosemite, there are 

concentrated areas of human use that have affected wildlife and their habitats, especially in the east 

Valley. This is also where some of the most valuable and sensitive habitats are located or once existed. 

Meadow and riparian areas are highly productive, structurally diverse habitats that support high 

species diversity and provide important linkages between terrestrial and aquatic communities. The 

long history of development and human use in the Valley has resulted in fragmentation and reductions 

of these habitats, thus affecting their quality for wildlife. Recent park efforts, associated with fire 

management and meadow and riparian restoration projects, have begun to make improvements in 

Valley habitats (Cardno ENTRIX 2011). 

Mammals (resident or transient) in Yosemite Valley include deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus), 

California ground squirrel (Otospermophilus beecheyi), western gray squirrel (Sciurus griseus), broadfooted mole (Scapanus latimanus), Botta’s pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae), ringtail, raccoon, coyote, 

bobcat, mule deer, mountain lion, and black bear (NPS 2011). The heavy visitation to Yosemite Valley 

and its relatively high number of resident employees have led to many human/wildlife conflicts. The 

root of most of these problems is the availability of human food. Improperly stored food and garbage 

and deliberate feeding alter the natural behavior of wildlife and lead to property damage and threats to 

human safety. In 2011, over $15,000 in property damage (110 incidents) was caused by black bears in 

the park (NPS 2011). Animals that become habituated to humans can lead to human-wildlife conflicts. 

These issues would escalate with higher visitation. Potential affected wildlife include bears, deer, 

coyotes, raccoons, mountain lions, and California ground squirrels. Roadkill of numerous species is 

likely proportional to the amount of vehicle traffic (K. Rodriguez, pers. comm). 

In recent years, mountain lion sightings in Yosemite Valley have increased (NPS 2011b). These 

sightings, coupled with two human fatalities in California from mountain lion attacks in 1994, have 

caused concern. Lions are attracted to the unnaturally high prey populations that are supported by 

human food sources in developed areas. Further reduction of lion habitat from development or 

expanded human presence could affect lion populations and increase the chance of human-mountain 

lion encounters. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-347

The Merced River widens and slows as it passes through Yosemite Valley. In general, habitat is 

characterized by a relatively wide channel, relatively low flows, and little riffle and pool habitat. The 

deposition and removal of soil and the force of flood waters in Segment 2 regularly disturb riparian 

vegetation. The park has historically cleared large woody debris from the Merced River to improve 

flow (to reduce flooding hazard), prevent bank erosion that might compromise park infrastructure, for 

visitor safety, to remove hazards to commercial rafting, and for aesthetic reasons. Since 1993, it has 

been park policy to allow woody debris in the Merced River to remain, sometimes with some 

manipulation in its placement, unless it causes a serious safety concern or threatens infrastructure. As a 

result, large woody debris in the channel is gradually returning through natural processes and active 

restoration (Cardno ENTRIX 2011). Undercut banks and exposed tree roots provide some refuge for 

young fish and other small organisms. The Merced River and its floodplain are connected in many 

areas, but some connections have been affected by development of trails, roads, and campgrounds in 

the first half of the 20th century. 

Fisheries resources in Yosemite Valley have historically been low in species diversity. Species native to 

the Merced River in the Valley probably only included rainbow trout (that migrated into the area from 

the San Joaquin River) and the Sacramento sucker. Nonnative strains of rainbow trout and brown 

trout have been stocked throughout Segment 2 of the Merced River and currently dominate the 

fisheries of this area. The Sacramento sucker is still common here, and an occasional brook trout is 

reported from the area—probably a result of transport via the river from their more favorable habitat 

in higher tributaries (Stillwater Sciences 2008). 

Riparian restoration efforts are underway along the banks of the Merced River in Yosemite Valley and 

are likely to have a positive effect on fish populations. The projects range from removal of bank 

revetment to restoration of riparian vegetation (Cardno ENTRIX 2011). In 1997 and 1998, surveys 

were conducted to examine the effects of riverbank restoration, with special attention to the presence 

of large woody debris and the association of fish to those areas. Rainbow trout density appeared 

higher at restoration sites, while brown trout and Sacramento sucker densities were higher at the 

control sites (USFWS 1999). 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced Gorge and El Portal 

Montane hardwood conifer (mixed conifer) is the predominant upland type adjacent to riparian areas 

at the elevation of Yosemite Valley and below in Segments 3 and 4. As such, its wildlife community 

includes species common to higher and lower elevations, leading to high species diversity. 

The Merced River gorge (Segment 3) is a unique case of lower elevation habitat. It is lined with a 

narrow band of riparian vegetation along the river, bordered by a dense mosaic of chaparral and 

foothill woodland communities (chaparral/oak woodland zone) on the steep canyon walls. Birds 

commonly found in this zone include western scrub-jay (Aphelocoma californica), California towhee 

(Melozone crissalis), Hutton’s vireo (Vireo huttoni), California thrasher (Toxostoma redivivum), 

Bewick’s wren (Thryomanes bewickii), oak titmouse (Baeolophus inornatus), wrentit (Chamaea 

fasciata), Nuttall’s and acorn woodpeckers (Picoides nuttallii and Melanerpes formicivorus, 

respectively), and red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis). Mammals include western harvest mouse 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-348 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

(Reithrodontomys megalotis), dusky-footed woodrat (Neotoma fuscipes), spotted skunk (Spilogale 

gracilis), mule deer, and bobcat. More significantly, the rocky outcrops and associated crevices of the 

gorge probably harbor a high density of special status bat species (e.g., spotted bat (Euderma 

maculatum), western mastiff bat (Eumops perotis)) (CDFG 2012). Many of these species are also 

present in Yosemite Valley. Several bat species, such as Townsend’s big-eared bat (Corynorhinus 

townsendii) and Yuma myotis (Myotis yumanensis), occasionally use human structures where they are 

vulnerable to impact (NPS 2011a). 

Downstream of the Cascades area, the velocity increases as the river enters the gorge, heading toward 

El Portal. The relatively undisturbed riparian habitat, especially on the south side of the river, and the 

known presence of Valley elderberry longhorn beetle and adjacent California spotted owl habitat 

contribute to El Portal’s biological resources (NPS 2011a). The river reach in El Portal is characterized 

by steep gradients, large boulders strewn throughout the channel, and frequent pools and cascading 

waterfalls. The north side of the canyon consists of foothill pine and oak woodland vegetation. The 

floodplain is minimal, if at all, in this reach. Fishes native to the Merced River below El Portal include 

rainbow trout, Sacramento sucker, Sacramento pikeminnow, hardhead, California roach 

(Hesperoleucus symmetricus), and the riffle sculpin. This reach of the river also supports introduced 

populations of smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu), rainbow trout, and brown trout. 

Segment 5: South Fork Merced River Above Wawona 

The South Fork Merced River originates at an elevation of 10,500 feet and flows westward, supporting 

alpine and montane meadow and chaparral, coniferous, and deciduous forest habitats. These habitats 

are similar to those described for Segment 1 in the upper reaches of the Merced River. 

Segments 6–8: Wawona Impoundment, Wawona, and South Fork Merced River Below Wawona 

At Wawona, the South Fork Merced River meanders mainly through coniferous forest, with smaller 

areas of chaparral, broadleaf forest, and meadow. Big Creek, a tributary of the South Fork Merced 

River, meanders through Wawona Meadow before reaching the river. Wawona Meadow and the 

associated riparian habitats—intact vegetation consisting of aspens, willows, and alders—support the 

occasional willow flycatcher (NPS 2011a). Although willow flycatchers no longer nest in Yosemite 

National Park (Siegel et al. 2008), this species formerly occupied Wawona Meadow and they are 

occasionally observed as transient individuals. 

The availability of snags and prey resources along the South Fork Merced River provide suitable 

nesting and foraging habitat for great gray owls year-round. Stream habitats support a sensitive 

invertebrate, the Wawona riffle beetle (CNDDB 2012). 

The South Fork Merced River supports self-sustaining populations of introduced brook, rainbow, and 

brown trout. There is less angler pressure on the South Fork Merced River than on the main stem due 

to difficulty of access and terrain. The significant presence of large woody debris, particularly in the 

uppermost reaches; dense riparian vegetation; overhanging trees; consistent riffle and pool habitat; 

waterfalls; and boulders all contribute to the quality of aquatic habitats. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-349

Environmental Consequences Methodology 

Proposed management actions under each alternative are evaluated in terms of the context, intensity, 

and duration of the impacts, as defined below, and whether the impacts are considered beneficial or 

adverse to the natural environment. Generally, the methodology for natural resource impact 

assessment follows direction provided in the Council of Environmental Quality Regulations for 

Implementing the National Environmental Protection Act, section 1508.27. 

Four primary parameters are used to evaluate impacts: (1) the amount and distribution of wildlife 

habitat; (2) the integrity and quality of habitat (including past disturbance); (3) the relative importance 

of habitat as related to productivity; and (4) the potential for disturbance from human presence, 

including radiating impacts (the term “radiating impacts” is used to indicate that habitat quality 

diminishes as a negative function of the distance from development). Radiating impacts are especially 

pronounced in small habitat fragments. Impacts on the native plant communities and hydrologic 

processes that support wildlife habitat are assessed under the “Vegetation” and “Hydrology, 

Floodplains, and Water Quality” sections in this chapter. Analysis was based on the assumptions listed 

below. 

 The greater the size of a biotic community and the stronger its links to neighboring 

communities, the more valuable it is to the integrity and maintenance of biotic processes. 

Development may potentially limit the size of a community and/or fragment and disassociate 

communities from each other. 

 The more developed areas become, the less valuable they are as wildlife habitat. New 

development would increase human presence and increase the potential for disturbance in the 

area of the development. The potential for negative wildlife interactions (such as human injury 

from wildlife and the introduction of unnatural food sources) also would increase. The 

removal of development from an area would increase the value of the habitat. However, it is 

important to recognize that in some cases, existing development serves to concentrate visitor 

impact and reduce disturbance associated with dispersal of the same number of visitors. 

“Containment” of disturbance within a designated area may preserve integrity of habitat and 

prove more valuable to wildlife than dispersed use. 

 The effects of human food and garbage on the behavior, distribution, and abundance of 

wildlife species would continue in existing developments and would begin in new 

developments. 

 Disturbance in or near a river and its tributaries might reduce the productive capabilities of 

associated natural communities. Modifications to river form (including those that would 

constrain the river from migrating or changing course), soil compaction, loss of riparian 

vegetation, removal of woody debris, and accelerated erosion and sediment transport 

influence important habitat characteristics such as riffle/pool complexes, substrate type, 

location, and cover. These physical aspects often determine the composition of vegetative and 

aquatic communities. Decomposed organic material from meadow, wetland, and riparian 

vegetation provides the primary nutrient source to adjacent aquatic communities as it is 

transported to the river via seasonal surface water flows and leaves dropped into the water 

from riparian deciduous trees and shrubs. Modifications that prohibit surface or subsurface 

water flows into meadow and wetland habitats might cause instability in these habitats. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-350 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Removal of riparian vegetation and woody debris might alter or disrupt the critical link 

between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. 

 Roads are generally barriers to wildlife and fragment habitat. 

 Noise and light pollution negatively affect wildlife species. 

 Development and impacts in riparian zones may influence critical water quality elements such 

as water temperature, suspended sediments, and nutrients. These elements interact in 

complex ways in aquatic systems and directly and indirectly influence patterns of growth, 

reproduction, and migration of aquatic organisms. 

 Ecological restoration of native communities would involve some short-term adverse impacts 

(e.g., smoke from prescribed burning) but over time can successfully replicate natural 

processes. 

This impact assessment considers the potential effects that implementation of the Merced Wild and 

Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (Merced River Plan) could have on wildlife resources. 

Information on wildlife habitats and species in the study area derives from the Yosemite Parkwide 

Vegetation Map (1997) and other studies, including the 2010 Assessment of Meadows in the Merced 

River Corridor, Yosemite National Park (Ballenger et al. 2011), the Merced River and Riparian 

Vegetation Assessment (Cardno/Entrix 2011), and the Wildlife Conditions Assessment for the Merced 

River Corridor in Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park (Espinoza et al. 2011). Quantitative analysis 

was used wherever possible; however, when quantitative analysis was not feasible, qualitative analysis 

was used. Qualitative analysis relies substantially on professional judgment, supported by 

extrapolation of relevant research, where appropriate, to reach reasonable conclusions as to the 

context, intensity, duration, and type of potential impact. 

 Context. The context of the impact considers whether the impact would be local, 

segmentwide, parkwide, or regional. For the purposes of this analysis, local impacts would be 

those that occur in a specific area within a segment of the river. This analysis further identifies 

if there are local impacts in multiple segments. Segmentwide impacts would consist of a 

number of local impacts within a single segment, or larger-scale impacts that would affect the 

segment as a whole. Parkwide impacts would extend beyond the river corridor and the study 

area in Yosemite National Park. Regional impacts would be those that extend to the Yosemite 

Sierra-wide. Context suggests that certain impacts depend upon the setting of the proposed 

action. For example, impacts that reduce the value of the Merced River in providing 

connectivity between habitat types could be minor if such connections are abundant in a given 

region, but could be moderate or major if they are not. 

 Intensity. The intensity of the impact considers effects of an action on the size and integrity of 

native habitats, diversity, and species populations. These designations are used to describe 

both beneficial and adverse impacts. Negligible impacts would have no measurable or 

perceptible changes on wildlife habitat or populations. Minor impacts would be local within a 

relatively small area, and the impacts on the integrity of animal populations would not be 

expected to have an overall effect on natural community structure. Without further impacts, 

negative effects may be reversed, and habitat quality would recover. Moderate impacts would 

be clearly detectable on wildlife habitat and populations and would be sufficient to cause a 

change in the abundance, distribution, quantity, or integrity of species; community ecology 

(e.g., the numbers of different kinds of species present); or natural processes (e.g., hydrology). 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-351

Major impacts would be substantial and highly noticeable, with the potential for permanent 

landscape-scale changes in the distribution, diversity, or dynamics of species populations; 

community ecology; and natural processes. Impacts on wildlife are quantified where possible 

by determining the acreage of wildlife habitat types altered. The amount of each habitat type 

that would be directly affected is determined by a comparative analysis of habitat spatial data 

representing existing conditions and conditions under proposed management actions. 

Radiating impacts and effects associated with habitat distribution and patch size are also 

addressed quantitatively where baseline data are available to support such an analysis. Other 

potential direct and indirect effects on wildlife habitats, such as effects associated with invasive 

species or the potential for disturbance to wildlife populations due to increases in human 

activity, are analyzed qualitatively. 

 Duration. A short-term impact would have an immediate effect on native habitat, diversity, 

and native populations but would not cause declines or increases in populations or diversity 

over time. Short-term impacts are normally associated with transitional types of activities, such 

as facility construction. Long-term impacts would lead to a loss or gain of native habitat, 

diversity, and species populations as exhibited by a decline or increase in species abundance, 

viability, and/or survival. 

 Type of Impact. The type of impact considers whether the impact would be beneficial or 

adverse. Impacts are considered beneficial if an action causes no detrimental effect and results 

in an increase in the size or integrity of species populations or habitat components; reduces 

disturbance to native ecosystem processes; increases native species richness/diversity; or 

otherwise increases native habitat quantity and quality. Impacts are considered adverse if they 

reduce the size, integrity, or diversity of native habitat. 

Environmental Consequences of Alternative 1 (No Action) 

All River Segments 

Alternative 1 (No Action) would be a continuation of current conditions and management. There 

would be no comprehensive changes to the management of the Merced River corridor. Under 

Alternative 1, the NPS would retain (and potentially revise) current management policies pertaining to 

wildlife. Current management plans that include goals to enhance wildlife habitat in the Merced River 

corridor (as described under “Affected Environment”) would continue to be implemented, resulting in 

long-term, beneficial effects throughout the Merced River corridor. 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

As described in “Chapter 8: Alternatives,” impediments to channel free flow and their associated 

impacts would continue in all segments of the Merced Wild and Scenic River corridor. All riprap and 

abandoned infrastructure in the river channel and meadow floodplains would remain, which may 

continue to alter the free-flowing condition of the river and constrain the river from naturally 

migrating and changing course. 

Although some large woody debris would be left in place in the river channel, the NPS would continue 

to remove large woody debris where there are threats to human safety or infrastructure. This action 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-352 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

would continue to influence habitat characteristics in the channel, such as riffle/pool complexes, cover 

for aquatic species, and stability of riverbanks. 

Informal meadow trails would largely remain under Alternative 1 (No Action). Riparian habitat would 

continue to be protected at current levels. However, continued visitor presence along the sensitive 

riverbank of the Merced River would continue to cause local riverbank erosion and scouring effects 

associated with bridges would continue. Conifer encroachment would continue to be managed with 

fire reintroduction. Meadow habitat would continue to be protected and enhanced by the Invasive 

Plant Management Plan Update, which eradicates (or at least controls) invasive plant species; prevents 

new invasions; restores and maintains desirable species composition; enhances the visitor experience; 

and educates park staff, partners, and users in protecting meadow habitat. These ongoing riverbank 

erosion and scouring effects, except for the management of encroaching conifers, would result in 

continued impacts on meadow and riparian habitats, including habitat fragmentation, reduced 

productivity of riparian and adjacent aquatic communities, and potential disruption of connectivity 

between terrestrial and aquatic habitats. 

Despite some ongoing impacts that would occur under Alternative 1, the NPS would also continue 

restoration projects to mitigate for impacts on biological values. Restoration projects would continue 

in several Yosemite Valley meadows such as Bridalveil, Cook’s, and El Capitan meadows, as well as 

riverbank restoration at North Pines Campground. The NPS would also continue invasive species 

control, where such plants are present, and conifer removal from some meadows. These ecological 

management actions would increase habitat integrity by reducing fragmentation and providing 

connectivity between habitat communities, reducing erosion along riverbanks, enhancing habitat 

quality for terrestrial and aquatic wildlife, and continuing to promote good water quality. Thus, 

current ecological management actions under Alternative 1 would enhance biological values and result 

in long-term, minor, beneficial effects on aquatic and terrestrial wildlife throughout the Merced River 

corridor. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Alternative 1 (No Action) would perpetuate the kinds and amounts of use that exist today. No new 

structures would be constructed in the Merced River corridor under Alternative 1 (e.g., no new 

campsites would be built at the former Lower and Upper River Campgrounds; this area would be 

allowed to passively revert to natural conditions). Habitat for wildlife would improve over time in 

areas allowed to revert to natural conditions. New structures that would be constructed would be 

minor in nature; temporary; easily removed; not habitable; designed to support existing uses, systems, 

and programs; located in the existing building footprint; and not created solely for commercial 

purposes. Temporary housing for employees displaced primarily by the flooding in 1997 at Curry 

Village area and temporary housing at the Lost Arrow parking lot in Yosemite Village would continue 

as needed. Housing for NPS employees and park partner staff would remain in current locations and 

at current levels. 

Many resource impacts derived from visitor and administrative use in all river segments would 

continue to be present. Informal trails, bicycle paths, campsites, roads, bridle paths, parking, staging 

areas, and trails would remain in some sensitive habitat areas, such as meadows and adjacent to 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 1 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-353

riparian habitat or within the 100-year floodplain. Traffic congestion, lack of parking spaces in highuse segments (e.g., Segments 2, 4 and 7), and improper parking adjacent to or on edges of meadows 

would continue to affect meadow habitats and terrestrial and aquatic wildlife. Traffic congestion, for 

example, would continue to affect wildlife species such as black bears from vehicle-bear collisions. To 

date, seventeen bears have been reported hit by vehicles in 2012 and nineteen bears were hit in 2011 

(NPS 2012a). Some adverse impacts would be mitigated through continuation of current wilderness 

policies, including protection of natural processes, visitor education with an emphasis on Leave-NoTrace practices, and restrictions on amounts and locations of overnight use. Although some areas 

would be allowed to revert to natural conditions under Alternative 1 to benefit local wildlife (i.e., the 

former Lower and Upper River Campgrounds), overall current visitor use and facility management 

actions under Alternative 1 would result in long-term, minor, adverse impacts on biological values 

such as habitat integrity, contiguity, and quality for wildlife. 

Segment 1: Merced River above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

The continuation of current wilderness policies, including protection of natural processes, visitor 

education with an emphasis on Leave-No-Trace practices, use of the wilderness trailhead quota 

system, and restrictions on amounts and locations of overnight use, would protect intact natural 

habitats, including the distribution, numbers, population composition, and interaction of native 

species. The NPS would continue efforts to monitor use, eliminate inappropriate uses (such as 

informal trails), and restore affected sites to natural conditions. Overall, habitat for wildlife in the 

Yosemite Wilderness within Segment 1 would remain undisturbed excluding trail corridors, as noted 

below, and no effect would result. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Wilderness above Nevada Fall would continue to be managed for wilderness-oriented experiences 

characterized by self-reliance and opportunities for solitude. Primary visitor activities would consist of 

hiking and overnight backpacking, with designated or dispersed camping. 

Wildlife habitat adjacent to trail corridors would continue to be affected by ongoing use. Habitat in 

lightly used alpine areas would remain relatively undisturbed. Impacts in these Wilderness areas would 

be very minor associated with occasional noise, human presence, and some modification to habitat 

from vegetation loss and soil compaction along trail corridors. In subalpine areas, site-specific impacts 

would result from foot and stock traffic along trail corridors. These activities would include 

disturbances such as noise, human presence, stock presence and impacts to habitat such as vegetation 

trampling, soil compaction, and manure deposition by pack stock. If campground and trail use 

continues at current levels, adverse impacts could occur at scarcer wet-meadow habitats, thereby 

affecting wildlife species associated with these habitats. The small diversion dam at the top of Nevada 

Fall would remain in place, resulting in continued impacts on the free-flowing condition of the 

Merced River. However, as noted above, the NPS would continue to implement site-specific 

restoration projects to halt or reverse these adverse effects. Therefore adverse impacts on wildlife 

associated with trail use would be local, minor, and long term. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-354 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Coniferous forest habitats along the upper Merced River are structurally diverse and expected to 

continue to support a full community of associated wildlife species under Alternative 1, even with the 

continued local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts associated with popular dispersed campsites and 

visitor use areas. Further downstream (into Little Yosemite Valley), in areas with less understory 

vegetation, continued concentrated human use along the north side of the Merced River would also 

result in local, long-term, minor, adverse effects on wildlife habitat. 

Although administrative and concessioner stock (horses and mules) are typically contained in corrals 

and pastures away from the Merced River, there would continue to be a minor, adverse impact on 

wildlife near these areas. For example, cowbirds tend to occur in areas of heavy horse use; this bird 

species has a detrimental effect on native songbird populations through brood parasitism. Likewise, 

the continued use of trails by horses and mules could increase cowbird parasitism, in addition to the 

adverse impact on water quality from trail runoff. Runoff can affect adjacent aquatic habitats by 

introducing unnaturally high levels of nutrients such as nitrogen. Horse and mule droppings could 

furthermore lead to the introduction of nonnative plant species and cause locally increased 

populations of insects such as flies. Based on these factors, adverse impacts on wildlife associated with 

concessioner stock would be local, minor, and long term under Alternative 1. 

Continued concentrated human use would have a local, minor, adverse effect on wildlife in the vicinity 

of the Moraine Dome Camping Area, Merced Lake High Sierra Camp, Merced Lake Backpackers 

Camping Area, and Little Yosemite Valley Backpackers Camping Area through trampling of 

understory vegetation and disturbances, including noise, artificial light, and human presence 

(including the presence of human food and garbage). As discussed under the Impacts of Actions to 

Protect and Enhance River Values section above, stock presence and vegetation trampling, soil 

compaction, and pack stock manure along the trails would continue to adversely impact meadow and 

aquatic habitats in Segment 1. Concentrated use would continue local, minor, adverse impacts by 

locally reducing understory vegetation and downed wood (from firewood collection), thus directly 

disturbing wildlife and providing unnatural food sources. However, concentrated human use would 

continue to have a beneficial effect on the park’s management of human/mountain lion encounters, 

which are more common when human use is dispersed (Beier 1991). 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 1 (No Action), fill material, compacted soils, and a network of roads at the former 

Pine and Oak units at Yosemite Lodge would remain in place and provide little or no suitable habitat 

for wildlife. Pack stock trail use within the ordinary high-water mark between Clark’s Bridge and the 

Curry Village stables, and the placement of the Upper Pines Campground dump station and Camp 6 

unimproved parking lot in proximity to the river would continue to impact riparian habitat and 

potentially contribute to water quality impacts. The river channel between Clark’s Bridge and Sentinel 

Bridge would continue to widen and exhibit low channel complexity. Lack of designated river access 

from the Pohono Bridge to the Cascades Diversion Dam would continue to affect riparian habitat and 

riverbanks in this area. These practices would continue to be potential contributors to water quality 

impacts in localized areas of the river through accelerated erosion and sediment deposition in the river 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 1 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-355

and result in long-term, minor, adverse impacts on aquatic and terrestrial wildlife associated with 

riverine habitat (including meadows and riparian habitat adjacent to the river). 

Aquatic habitats in Segment 2 have long been subject to large wood management, which results in the 

modification of the aquatic habitat through the selective removal or replacement of woody debris from 

the stream channel. This practice adversely affects natural stream dynamics, reduces habitat diversity 

for aquatic organisms, and adversely affects nutrient cycling in these habitats by removing a natural 

source of nutrient input. Large wood management would continue under current practices. 

Streambank destabilization in the vicinity of wood removal would continue, causing a local, long-term, 

minor, adverse impact on aquatic habitat for fisheries and wildlife. 

Under Alternative 1, human-constructed ditches, informal trails, abandoned roadbeds and 

infrastructure, trails in inundated areas, and informal roadside parking in meadow habitat would 

continue to adversely affect meadows and wetlands in Yosemite Valley by altering the hydrology of 

these habitats. Conifer encroachment into meadows would continue to affect meadow hydrology. The 

former Upper River and Lower River campgrounds area is critical to providing hydrologic 

connectivity between Ahwahnee and Stoneman meadows; however, it is currently not functioning as a 

healthy riparian and floodplain ecosystem due to lost topography (graded landscape and filled 

drainages), compacted soils, existing (amphitheater) and abandoned infrastructure, and invasive plant 

infestations. These factors would continue impact meadow habitat and wildlife species using this 

habitat. Alternative 1 would allow the former Upper River and Lower River Campgrounds to passively 

revert to natural conditions, which would be beneficial to wildlife in the long-term. 

As discussed in the “Vegetation and Wetlands” section of this chapter, meadow habitat acreage in 

Yosemite Valley has substantially diminished from levels present during pre-Euro-American times and 

has affected dependent wildlife species such as Pacific chorus frog and red-winged blackbird. The 

park has already instituted meadow restoration and prescribed burning programs that benefit meadow 

hydrology, plants, and wildlife, and these programs would continue under Alternative 1, thereby 

offsetting some of the adverse effects associated with habitat loss over time. 

In forested habitats, encroachment of conifers into California black oak woodlands has altered species 

composition, abundance, and diversity. Encroachment would continue under Alternative 1 due to the 

inability to manage trees in and surrounding developed areas with prescribed fire. The encroachment 

of conifers into California black oak woodlands has affected the availability of acorns, an important 

seasonal food source for species such as black bears, mule deer, acorn woodpeckers, gray squirrels, 

and numerous small rodents. Furthermore, conifers provide less suitable habitat for species such as 

great-horned owls, yellow-rumped warbler, and western bluebird. This effect would be local, long 

term, minor, and adverse in Segment 2. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Under Alternative 1 (No Action), size, structure, productivity, and continuity (within habitat and 

between habitats) of wildlife habitats in Yosemite Valley would continue to be affected by existing 

improvements and visitor use. In general, adverse impacts on wildlife resources in Segment 2 under 

Alternative 1 would be local, minor, and long term. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-356 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

The Merced River in Yosemite Valley would continue to provide for a diversity of river-related and 

other recreational opportunities. Overnight capacities, employee housing (including temporary 

housing), visitor day and administrative parking capacity, and administrative activities are well 

established and would remain as they are today. Most campsites in Valley campgrounds would be 

retained; the former Upper and Lower River campgrounds would be allowed to be passively restored 

to natural conditions. In general, parking demand in Yosemite Valley exceeds supply during peak-use 

periods, resulting in overflow parking on shoulders along roadways and sometimes in sensitive 

meadow habitats, thereby resulting in local, minor adverse impacts on wildlife that use these habitats. 

Continued operation of overnight lodging units in the floodplain and heavy foot traffic associated with 

campgrounds, lodging, rafting operations, and picnic areas would continue to denude riparian habitat 

in localized areas. Heavily used areas in the Valley can approach the level of disturbance normally 

associated with an urban park. During reconnaissance surveys in 1998, for example, bird diversity at 

Yosemite Falls was characterized by a preponderance of disturbance-tolerant species. Earlier 

researchers at the park (Foin et al. 1977, cited in Knight and Gutzwiller 1995) found that more 

disturbance tolerant species such as Brewer’s blackbirds and mountain chickadee increased in areas 

near visitor trails, while other species (e.g., dark-eyed junco) decreased. It is anticipated that these 

patterns would continue under Alternative 1. 

Overall, continued use of improvements at current levels of intensity would have a segmentwide, longterm, moderate adverse effect on wildlife use of the riparian corridor and adjacent habitats in 

Yosemite Valley. Wildlife and their habitats are currently affected by the overall amount of noise, 

traffic, and human presence, and the effect would continue for riparian-dependent species (e.g., belted 

kingfisher, warblers, and flycatchers) at developments such as North and Lower Pines campgrounds 

and Camp 6. Wildlife habitat tends to be fragmented along the riparian zone in the east Valley because 

of developed campgrounds, parking lots, and roads. Habitat fragmentation would continue to restrict 

wildlife movement in this area under Alternative 1. 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced Gorge and El Portal 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 1 (No Action), the Merced River in El Portal would continue to be confined by 

riprap and levees, abandoned infrastructure and imported fill in floodplain habitat would remain, and 

Greenemeyer sand pit would continue to contain fill material that precludes natural flooding and 

development of riparian vegetation. Water quality may be affected by surface water runoff that 

transports sediment and automotive fluids from roadside parking areas between the Merced River and 

Foresta Road. These effects would continue to result in long-term, local, minor, adverse impacts on 

channel free-flow, water quality, riparian habitat development, and aquatic and terrestrial wildlife that 

inhabit these habitats. 

Valley oaks in Segments 3 and 4 would continue to be affected by vehicles parking under the drip line 

of the trees. This practice compacts soil under the trees, thus affecting root health, water uptake, and 

soil aeration. Additionally, existing development and trampling in the vicinity limits the area where oak 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 1 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-357

seedlings can be recruited. Current practices would result in long-term, local, minor, adverse impacts 

on valley oak habitat, thereby affecting wildlife species that depend on this habitat type. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Montane hardwood conifer is the dominant habitat type in Segments 3 and 4, adjacent to riparian 

areas below Yosemite Valley. This habitat type is broadly transitional between upper-elevation forest 

types to chaparral and is thus the most important type for migratory wildlife and their associated 

predators. Access by wildlife to these habitats is affected on the north side of the Merced River by 

roads, employee lodging, and other human activities and existing development. In contrast, habitats on 

the south side of the river are relatively free of human made barriers or disturbances. These conditions 

would continue to occur under Alternative 1 (No Action), resulting in long-term, local, minor adverse 

impacts on wildlife resources in Segments 3 and 4 over the long term. 

Visitor activities in Segments 3 and 4 include scenic driving along El Portal Road and river-related 

recreational activities. Visitor pass-through use would continue to be the majority of use in Segments 3 

and 4. There are no overnight accommodations for park visitors in these segments that are on park 

land. Due to the low levels of visitor use and no overnight accommodations in Segments 3 and 4, the 

amount, distribution, and integrity of wildlife habitat would remain relatively intact and the potential 

for human disturbance from human-related activities and presence would remain low. Impacts from 

current actions to manage visitor use and facilities in Segments 3 and 4 would result in continued longterm, local, minor adverse impacts on wildlife habitat and wildlife species in these segments. 

Segments 5–8: South Fork Merced River 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Continuation of current wilderness policies, including protection of natural processes, visitor 

education with an emphasis on Leave-No-Trace practices, and restrictions on amounts and locations 

of overnight use, would protect intact natural habitats, including the distribution, numbers, population 

composition, and interaction of native species. In general, long-term adverse impacts on wildlife 

resources in Segments 5– 8 through implementation of Alternative 1 (No Action) are considered to be 

local and minor. Habitats upstream and downstream of Wawona along the South Fork Merced River 

are relatively inaccessible and intact. Implementation of Alternative 1 would not substantially alter the 

form or function of these communities. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities

Visitor use in Segments 5 and 6 would remain very low, and river values would remain protected under 

Alternative 1 (No Action). Visitor activities in Segment 7 include river-related activities, picnicking, 

camping, lodging, education and interpretation at the Pioneer Yosemite History Center, special events 

at the Wawona Hotel, and golfing. Overnight accommodations are provided by the Wawona Hotel 

and Wawona Campground. Visitor activities in Segment 8 consist of day visitors swimming, hiking, or 

other participating in other river-related activities. There are no overnight lodging accommodations in 

Segment 8. Any future improvements to visitor facilities would occur in previously developed areas 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-358 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

(associated with the Wawona Store and bus stop). Riparian habitat restoration would be implemented 

at the Wawona Maintenance area, and roadside parking would be removed between the Wawona 

Store and Chilnualna Falls Road. 

For the coniferous and deciduous forests adjacent to Wawona, habitat fragmentation caused by existing 

development and use would continue to affect wildlife under Alternative 1. With the continued use of 

these areas, this alternative would result in long-term, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife. Planned 

habitat restoration would mitigate for some of these adverse impacts, resulting in long-term, negligible, 

adverse impacts on wildlife. 

The South Fork Merced River supports self-sustaining non-native populations of rainbow and brown 

trout. There is less pressure by anglers on the South Fork Merced River fisheries than on the main 

stem because of the difficult access and terrain. There would therefore be no effect on fisheries in the 

South Fork Merced River under Alternative 1. 

Summary of Alternative 1 (No Action) Impacts 

Past development and human activity in the Merced River corridor have in some cases adversely 

affected wildlife habitat. Under Alternative 1 (No Action), some adverse trends to wildlife habitat 

would continue to occur. These include a reduction in habitat quality for riparian and wet-meadowdependent wildlife where these habitats are near or adjacent to existing developments and high visitor 

use areas; a trend toward a loss of habitat connectivity and increase in habitat fragmentation; an 

increase in human-related disturbance; and continued competition between native wildlife and 

nonnative species and disturbance-tolerant wildlife. 

The NPS would continue to implement existing goals and policies (e.g., the 1916 Organic Act, Yosemite 

Natural Resources Management Plan, Yosemite Vegetation Management Plan, and Invasive Plant 

Management Plan) and make incremental improvements to wildlife habitat on a project-by-project 

basis, as opportunities and resource problems present themselves. For example, hampered by existing 

development and infrastructure, enhancement and reestablishment of oak woodland habitat would 

continue on a site-by-site basis rather than on a parkwide or Valleywide basis. Although substantial 

piecemeal improvements can take place under current direction, “reactive” resource management is 

not always effective at protecting sensitive resources over the long term. Therefore, effects on wildlife 

would continue to be adverse, segment-wide, moderate and long term, especially in areas of high 

human use such as Yosemite Valley, El Portal, and Wawona (Segments 2, 4, and 7). Other river 

segments would be less affected by Alternative 1, resulting in long-term, local, negligible adverse 

impacts. 

Cumulative Impacts of Alternative 1 (No Action) 

Cumulative impacts on wildlife discussed herein are based on analysis of past, present, and reasonably 

foreseeable actions in the Yosemite region in combination with potential effects of Alternative 1 

(No Action). The projects identified below include those that have the potential to affect local wildlife 

patterns (i.e., within the Merced River corridor) as well as large-scale or regional wildlife patterns. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 1 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-359

Past Actions 

Wildlife communities have been manipulated almost since the beginning of Yosemite National Park. 

Regional wildlife has been historically affected by logging, fire suppression, rangeland clearing, 

grazing, mining, draining, damming, diversions, and the introduction of nonnative species. 

Fur-bearing mammals were trapped by park rangers until 1925; lions were considered dangerous 

predators and controlled through the 1920s; and bears were artificially fed as a tourist attraction until 

1940. Natural wildfires, with their generally beneficial effects on wildlife habitat, were routinely 

suppressed until 1972 (Wuerthner 1994). Past and ongoing activities include construction of dams, 

diversion walls, bridges, roads, pipelines, riprap, recreational use, buildings, campgrounds, and other 

recreational features. 

Yosemite’s mammal species that were once thriving within the park but are now extremely rare are the 

fisher, wolverine (possibly extinct), and Sierra Nevada red fox. Several bird species have probably been 

reduced in Yosemite Valley by human activity but are present in less disturbed areas of the park. 

Willow flycatchers no longer nest in Yosemite Valley for a variety of complex reasons, including 

parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds, destruction of riparian and meadow habitat, past cattle grazing, 

nest predation, and lack of a regionally sustainable population. On a wider scale, apparent population 

declines have been detected in numerous other bird species in the Sierra Nevada, including Yosemite. 

Possible causes for these declines include grazing, logging, fire suppression, development, recreational 

use, pesticides, habitat destruction on wintering grounds, and large-scale climate changes. 

Amphibians in Yosemite have suffered population declines similar to those seen in the rest of the 

Sierra Nevada (Drost and Fellars 1996). Red-legged frogs likely were found in Yosemite Valley in the 

past but are now are presumed extirpated. Significant factors in their disappearance probably include 

reduction in perennial ponds and wetlands, and predation by bullfrogs. At higher elevations, Sierra 

Nevada yellow-legged frogs and Yosemite toads are still present in a number of areas but are severely 

reduced in population and range. Foothill yellow-legged frogs are no longer found anywhere in 

Yosemite Valley, and may no longer be found in the park. However, one population of foothill yellowlegged frog occurs adjacent to the park boundary on the Tuolumne River, and there may be a small 

population in the park. Focused surveys have not been conducted to confirm this species’ existence in 

the park. Research continues to identify the causes of Sierra Nevada-wide amphibian declines; 

possible causes include habitat destruction, nonnative fish, pesticides, and diseases. Most fish 

currently found in the Merced River and its tributaries in Yosemite have been introduced. Prior to 

trout stocking for sportfishing, native fish in Yosemite were probably limited to the rainbow trout and 

the Sacramento sucker, both of which were present only in the lower portions of the Merced River 

(i.e., Yosemite Valley and below). Rainbow trout introduced through stocking from other waters and 

fish hatcheries have now hybridized with, and/or has displaced, the original strain. 

A list of past, present, and future projects and plans that could have a cumulative effect on wildlife are 

summarized in Appendix B. Past projects and plans that could have a cumulative effect on wildlife 

include the following: 

 Management and Restoration: South Fork and Merced Wild and Scenic River Implementation 

Plan, Cascades Diversion Dam Removal, Cook’s Meadow Ecological Restoration, Fern 

Springs Restoration, Happy Isles Dam Removal, Happy Isles Fen Habitat Restoration Project, 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-360 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Happy Isles Gauging Station Bridge Removal, Lower Yosemite Fall Project, Merced River 

Ecological Restoration at Eagle Creek Project, Red Peak Pass Trail Rehabilitation 

Present Actions 

Current facility-related projects and plans that could have a cumulative effect on wildlife include the 

following: 

 Facility Development: Crane Flat Utilities, East Yosemite Valley Utilities Improvement 

Plan/Environmental Assessment, Wahhoga Indian Cultural Center, Parkwide Communication 

Data Network, South Entrance Station Kiosk Replacement, Tioga Road Rehabilitation. 

Beneficial impacts for present management and restoration actions are similar to those discussed for 

past actions. Specific examples of present projects and plans include the following: 

 Management and Restoration: Vegetation Management Plan, General Ecological Restoration, 

2004 Fire Management Plan/EIS, Fuels reductions/forest rehabilitation projects (USFS), 

Tuolumne Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan. 

Reasonably Foreseeable Future Actions 

Reasonably foreseeable future actions proposed in the region that could have a cumulative effect on 

regional wildlife include: 

 Changing demographics of visitors in Yosemite 

 Climate change 

 Comprehensive Transportation Plan 

 Concessioner Parking Lot Restoration 

 Restoration of the Mariposa Grove Ecosystem 

 Yosemite National Park Annual Fire Management Plan (Operational Fire Management Plan) 

 Yosemite Wilderness Stewardship Plan/EIS 

Planned restoration projects listed above would generally contribute towards beneficial cumulative 

effects to special status species by increasing the quantity and quality of affected habitats. Cumulative 

adverse effects are related to increased facilities, access, and regional population growth as well as 

changes in climate. Facility-related projects would in many cases have local, adverse effects on fish and 

wildlife due to construction activities (short term) and the direct loss of habitat (long term). Increased 

population and visitation to the region over time would also contribute towards adverse effects. 

Regional population growth and visitation primarily affects regional wildlife populations through 

habitat loss and fragmentation due to new housing and infrastructure and use. Examples of 

construction- and human-use-related effects on wildlife patterns include direct displacement of 

wildlife (e.g., replaced with structures); introduction of nonnative species that invade into adjacent 

natural areas and displace native species (e.g., spread by construction equipment and materials, 

vehicles, grazing animals, or backyard gardening); fragmentation of habitats, which decreases genetic 

diversity; alteration of natural patterns (e.g., fire suppression around structures, use of herbicides, the 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 1 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-361

introduction of night light); and increased erosion and sedimentation (e.g., during grading activities, 

overuse of trails). More importantly, some of the projects provide for increased residential growth 

adjacent to the park and would accommodate increased recreational development. 

Changes in climate also pose a threat to several wildlife and fish. In particular, many amphibians would 

be affected by warming temperatures through increasing suitability for invasive competitors, 

pathogens, changes in hydrological patterns, and changes in snow pack and runoff. Many species 

would also be affected by increasing competition from other species (including invasives) as habitat for 

competitors becomes more suitable over time. 

In total, regional development and growth could have a net long-term, moderate, adverse effect on 

wildlife associated with the Merced River corridor. For species at higher elevations, the effects would 

somewhat be mitigated by resource protection planning and inherent spatial separation from impacts 

at lower elevation. In total, regional development and growth could have a net long-term, moderate, 

adverse effect on regional wildlife resources that would not be compensated by regional planning and 

restoration projects discussed above. 

Wildlife communities have been manipulated almost since the beginning of the park, and these actions 

have had a mostly negative influence on wildlife and their habitats. Recent past, present, and future 

reasonably foreseeable cumulative effects would be mixed, combining both adverse and beneficial 

effects. Cumulative beneficial effects on wildlife include habitat restoration and rehabilitation projects 

and ecosystem management. Cumulative adverse effects would be related to habitat loss through 

development, regional population growth, and increased competition from nonnative species. 

Although general effects associated with Alternative 1 (No Action) would be negligible, the overall 

cumulative effect of other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable actions, in combination with this 

alternative would be regional, minor, adverse, and long term. 

Environmental Consequences of Actions Common to Alternatives 2–6 

All River Segments 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Hydrologic/Geologic Resource Actions. Specific restoration actions associated with hydrologic/ 

geologic resources in all river segments and common to Alternatives 2-6 include removing 3,400 feet of 

riprap corridor-wide and revegetating with riparian plant species where needed. An additional 

2,300 feet of riprap would be removed and replaced with bioengineered riverbank stabilization. 

Removal of riprap and replacement with bioengineered riverbank stabilization would allow for natural 

channel migration and promote riparian revegetation, and thus would have long-term, moderate, and 

beneficial impacts on wildlife corridorwide. Species that use riparian and riverine habitats would 

benefit the most from the removal of riprap and reestablishment of riparian habitat, including 

mammals such as mule deer and black bear, reptiles such as garter snake, amphibians such as Pacific 

chorus frog, and many bird species such as songbirds and raptors. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-362 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Because the removal of rip-rap and associated restoration actions involve heavy machinery, shortterm, segmentwide, minor and adverse impacts associated with the restorative action may include 

noise associated with restoration activities, human presence, modification of habitat, and potential 

increase in sedimentation to the river. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, 

MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of 

vegetation where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, 

these adverse impacts are expected to only last for the duration of the restoration activity and over the 

long term, this restoration action would have moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife in all river 

segments. Additionally, these actions would have a long-term, moderate, beneficial impact on fish as 

riparian vegetation reestablishes throughout the Merced River corridor. 

Actions to protect and enhance river values common to Alternatives 2–6 include measures to improve 

hydrologic function and enhance ecological complexity throughout the Merced River corridor, 

restore the riverbanks and upland riparian communities, protect sensitive habitat areas, and minimize 

the risk of impacts on new and existing structures from flooding. The Merced River would be restored 

to natural river processes through the removal of riverbank riprap, revegetation of native plants, use of 

bioengineering techniques to stabilize riverbanks, removal of abandoned infrastructure within the 

river channel and meadow floodplains, and restoration of natural topography. The NPS would 

manage large woody debris according to the management plan, which allows for large wood to remain 

in the channel if it does not compromise visitor safety or infrastructure. In general, these actions would 

have a long-term, moderate, beneficial impact on fish and wildlife species that use the Merced River 

and its associated habitats. 

In 1997 and 1998, surveys were conducted to examine the effects of riverbank restoration, with special 

attention to the presence of large woody debris and the association of fish with those areas. Rainbow 

trout density appeared higher at restoration sites, while the density of brown trout and Sacramento 

suckers was higher at the control sites (USFWS 1999). Implementation of these restoration actions 

would also improve hydrologic function, enhance natural stream dynamics, and increase ecological 

complexity of the river corridor and associated upland riparian habitat over the long term. 

Consequently, habitat quality would improve for terrestrial and aquatic wildlife species that use these 

intricately linked ecosystems. 

Meadow and riparian habitat support numerous wildlife species and serve as a critical link between 

upland and aquatic habitats. Under Alternatives 2–6, the park would undertake certain measures to 

address ongoing upland and riparian habitat impacts. These measures include addressing informal 

trails and conifer encroachment into meadow areas through various restoration techniques, fencing 

and area closures, and providing visitor education and visual cues. Meadow and riparian habitats 

would be restored by revegetating denuded areas, protecting newly restored areas with fencing or 

natural barriers, installing signage to educate visitors, and developing or replacing trails and 

boardwalks to accommodate visitors while reducing vegetation trampling. Existing formal trails would 

be delineated and defined, and new development within 150 feet from the ordinary high-water mark 

of the Merced River would be prohibited. Facilities within 100 feet of the ordinary high-water mark 

would be removed or relocated to allow the floodplain to restore to natural conditions. Riverbank 

stabilization would be achieved with brush layering techniques and revegetation. These actions would 

have a moderate, long-term benefit on wildlife that use these habitat types. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Common to Alternatives 2-6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-363

Potential short-term, adverse impacts may also occur as a result of restoration actions, including 

disturbance associated with noise/vibrations from construction/restoration activities, temporary 

increases in suspended sediments, potential for accidental spill of chemicals, and modification to 

riverbank and channel habitat. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of riparian 

vegetation where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

As described above, corridor-wide, Alternatives 2-6 would prohibit new development within 150 feet 

from the ordinary high water mark of the Merced River and remove or relocate all campsites within 

100 feet of the ordinary high water mark to allow for restoration activities. These actions would have 

long-term, moderate and beneficial effects upon wildlife associated with the Merced River and its 

habitats. 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

As described for Alternative 1 (No Action), formal and informal trails in Segment 1 directly and/or 

indirectly affect habitats and associated wildlife in some areas. Heavy grazing by stock animals, 

vegetation trampling, soil compaction, and manure deposition adversely affect meadow habitat. For 

example, trampling and/or soil compaction of meadow habitat reduce habitat for voles, thereby 

reducing forage availability for California kingsnake. Alternatives 2–6 would include measures to 

restore and protect high-elevation meadows in Segment 1, such as prohibiting grazing at Merced Lake 

East Meadow and removing informal trails, trails through inundated areas, and trails that fragment 

meadow habitat. Denuded areas would be revegetated with native vegetation. Over time, these actions 

would have long-term, moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife species that use meadows, 

including mammals such as mule deer and black bear, reptiles such as garter snake, amphibians such as 

Pacific chorus frog, and many bird species such as songbirds and raptors. 

Short-term, adverse impacts associated with these actions may include noise associated with 

restoration activities, human presence, and modification of habitat as a result of rerouting trails. 

Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as 

applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation where possible would reduce 

these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, these adverse impacts are expected to only 

last for the duration of the restoration activity (trail construction and relocation) and over the long 

term, these management actions would have moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife in Segment 1. 

Additionally, these actions would have a long-term, moderate, beneficial impact on fish because 

nonpoint sources of pollution (including sediments and nutrients) would be reduced or eliminated in 

localized areas of the watershed in Segment 1. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-364 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Alternatives 2–6 would provide for similar kinds of use that exist today in Segment 1, which focus on 

wilderness-oriented experiences characterized by self-reliance and opportunities for solitude. Primary 

activities in Segment 1 include hiking and overnight backpacking at designated camping areas or 

dispersed wilderness camping. The retention of designated camping areas would vary by alternative 

Stock day rides would be prohibited under Alternatives 2–6 in Segment 1. Adverse impacts from visitor 

activities would be mitigated through continuation of current wilderness policies, including protection of 

natural processes, visitor education with an emphasis on Leave-No-Trace practices, and restrictions on 

amounts and locations of overnight use. Actions to prohibit stock day rides and limit camping and travel 

to within maintained trails and roadways would result in long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife 

as human interactions and potential impacts related to stock use are reduced. 

Private boating, with undesignated and dispersed put-ins and take-outs, would be allowed in all wild 

segments under Alternatives 2–6. Continued put-in and take-out activities in undesignated and 

dispersed locations in Segment 1 would result in continued long-term, local, negligible, adverse 

impacts on riverbanks from erosion and trampling of riparian vegetation. These activities would result 

in long-term, local, negligible, adverse impacts on riparian and riverine habitats and wildlife species 

that inhabit these areas. 

Total visitor use levels for Segment 1 would vary with the overnight capacities and use levels across 

Alternatives 2–6. However, administrative use levels for this segment would remain the same across 

Alternatives 2–6. These administrative uses would continue to have a long-term, negligible effect on 

wildlife in Segment 1. 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Restorative management actions that would occur in Segment 2 under Alternatives 2–6 include 

strategically placing large wood (log jams) to lessen the scouring from bridge structures, preventing 

riverbank erosion, restoring riparian habitat, and directing visitor use to resilient areas adjacent to the 

river. The free-flowing condition of the Merced River would be enhanced through the removal of 

former bridge footings and a river gauge base from the bed and banks of the river at the Happy Isles 

footbridge. The abandoned gauging station at the Pohono Bridge would also be removed and the 

riparian buffer would be restored to natural conditions. Water quality would be improved by 

relocating the Upper Pines Campground dump station. The types of habitat that would be affected by 

these restoration actions in Segment 2, as well as the types of habitat that would be enhanced or 

restored, are summarized in table 9-59. 

As summarized in table 9-59, approximately 151 acres of meadow, riparian, black oak woodland, 

coniferous forest, and floodplain habitats habitat would be restored in Segment 2 under 

Alternatives 2–6, resulting in direct benefits to fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. These 

actions would result in enhanced channel free flow, increased channel complexity, and restored 

riparian habitat segmentwide; in the long term, these impacts would be moderate and beneficial to 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Common to Alternatives 2-6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-365

TABLE 9-59: HABITAT RESTORATION COMMON TO ALTERNATIVES 2–6 IN SEGMENT 2

Current WHR 

Habitat Typea Acres Proposed WHR Habitat Type Acres (WHR Habitat Type Restored/Enhanced)b

Meadow 16 

Meadow 18 

Sparsely vegetated 2 

Black oak woodland 14 Black oak woodland 14 

Coniferous forest 58 A mosaic of meadow, black oak, 

and open canopy coniferous forest 58 

Coniferous forest 25 

Riparian & floodplain: cottonwood, 

willow, mix of upland deciduous & 

coniferous forest 

25 

Development 4 Riparian: cottonwood, willow, mix 

of upland deciduous & coniferous 

forest 

32 

Coniferous forest 32 

Total 151 Total 151 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow systems), or 

restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. 

b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, and 2011. 

aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. Short-term, adverse impacts resulting from these actions are expected 

to be localized, resulting from potential increase in suspended sediments caused by in-water 

restoration activities. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation 

where possible would ensure these short-term impacts would be minor and adverse. 

Meadow habitat integrity, extent, and hydrological connectivity to the Merced River would be 

enhanced through constructing wide box culverts, formalizing or removing shoulder parking, 

restoring natural topography, removing ditches and abandoned infrastructure, improving roadways 

and trails, and removing encroaching conifers. In addition, the NPS would decompact soils and 

revegetate denuded meadow and riparian habitat. Stream headcutting at Bridalveil Meadow would be 

addressed by planting live willow cuttings to stabilize disturbed areas, riverbanks, and the adjacent 

meadow. These actions would result in local, short-term, adverse impacts on wildlife related to 

increased noise during restoration activities, human presence, and modification or conversion of 

habitats. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to 

MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of riparian vegetation where 

possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. Collectively, these restorative 

and management actions would be expected to have segmentwide, moderate, and beneficial impacts 

on fish and wildlife over the long term by enhancing habitat integrity, reducing habitat fragmentation, 

and improving water quality. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-366 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Actions that specifically target the enhancement of cultural values, including restoration of 

traditionally used plant populations, implementing the invasive plant management program, removing 

informal trails, and removing encroaching conifers that compete with black oaks, would also benefit 

wildlife species that depend on native vegetation and black oak woodlands. Thus, restorative actions 

to enhance cultural values would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife 

associated with black oak woodlands and native vegetation. 

Biological Resource Actions. 

Ahwahnee Meadow: Actions common to Alternatives 2-6 to protect and enhance river values at the 

Ahwahnee Meadow include restoring an impacted portion of the Ahwahnee Meadow to natural 

meadow conditions and removing the tennis courts from black oak woodland. Currently disjunct 

portions of Ahwahnee Meadow would be reconnected by selectively removing conifers to return 

approximately 5.65 acres of meadow habitat. Enhancing meadow connectivity would reduce meadow 

fragmentation and removal of the tennis courts from black oak woodland would allow for woodland 

habitat to be restored. Natural meadow topography would be restored by removing abandoned 

irrigation lines and fill, filling in ditches, and revegetating with native meadow species. Actions to 

restore Ahwahnee Meadow would have local, long-term, moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife 

due to an increased amount of meadow and oak woodland habitat, a reduction in habitat 

fragmentation, and enhanced habitat function (restored topography and hydrological connectivity). 

Yosemite Valley Campgrounds: Common to Alternatives 2-6, the NPS would remove all campsites 

within 100 feet of the bed and banks of the Merced River in all Valley campgrounds and restore 

riparian habitat through the removal of asphalt parking spaces, base rock, and fill material. Soils would 

be decompacted and topography would be recontoured to natural conditions. Native riparian plant 

species would be used to revegetate denuded areas. Riparian habitat protection would be achieved 

through redirecting visitors to more stable and resilient areas, and installation of new fencing (or 

adjusting existing fencing) to protect newly restored riparian zones. Restoration of the 100 feet buffer 

of floodplain and riparian habitat throughout Yosemite Valley would result in segment-wide, longterm, moderate, and beneficial impacts to fish and wildlife. 

El Capitan Meadow: Common to Alternatives 2-6, the NPS would reroute the climber use trail at 

El Capitan to an appropriate upland area east of the current location to reduce impacts to El Capitan 

Meadow. Additionally, informal trails through meadow and oak woodland habitat would be removed 

and fencing or natural barriers and signs would be installed to keep visitors from trampling on native 

plants. Existing culverts would be replaced and additional culverts would be installed to improve water 

flow from at El Capitan to Northside Drive. Encroaching conifer saplings would be removed from 

El Capitan Meadow. Restoration of El Capitan Meadow would result in local, long-term, minor, and 

beneficial impacts on wildlife from reduction in trampling from foot traffic, increased hydrological 

connectivity, and reduced conifer encroachment into meadow habitat. 

Additional actions common to Alternatives 2-6 in Yosemite Valley include formalizing parking and 

river access from the Pohono Bridge to the Diversion Dam, adding 150 feet of boardwalk to the west of 

the existing boardwalk at Sentinel Meadow, expanding fenced areas to protect wetlands on the north 

end of Stoneman Meadow near Lower Pines Campground, restoring 20 acres of floodplains at the 

western portion of former Lower Pines Campground, relocating parking from Devil’s elbow to the 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Common to Alternatives 2-6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-367

east of the current parking lot and delineating a formal trail to access the sandbar, focusing visitor use 

and river access at Housekeeping Camp to two resilient beach locations on the western edge of 

Housekeeping Camp and across the footbridge, designating formal river access at Cathedral Beach 

Picnic Area and restoring riparian habitat, and filling approximately 2,155 feet of ditches throughout 

Valley meadows that are currently not serving current operational needs. Restoration of meadow and 

riparian habitats through the removal of invasive plant species and replanting with native vegetation, 

selective removal of conifers that cause meadow fragmentation, removal of abandoned park facilities 

and infrastructure (e.g., tennis court and abandoned irrigation lines), and filling of ditches that no 

longer serve operational needs would result in segment-wide, long-term, moderate, and beneficial 

impacts on wildlife. Species that use meadows, riparian, and riverine habitats would benefit the most 

from these actions, including mammals, reptiles, amphibians, many bird species, and fish. 

Because some of the actions described above will require heavy equipment to achieve restoration 

objectives, local, short-term, minor, and adverse impacts associated with restorative actions would 

occur. Impacts include noise associated with restoration activities, human presence, and modification 

of habitat as a result of rerouting or formalizing trails, removal of select conifers, and removal of 

nonnative vegetation. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation 

where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Hydrologic/Geologic Resource Actions. Restoration actions associated with hydrologic/geologic 

resources within Segment 2 and common to Alternatives 2-6 include removing an abandoned gauging 

station within the bed and banks of the Merced River in the vicinity of Pohono Bridge, removing 

former footbridge (footings) and former river gauge base from the Merced River at the Happy Isles 

area, and constructing eight constructed logjams in the channel between Clark’s and Sentinel Bridges 

to address river widening and low channel complexity. Riparian restoration would follow after the 

removal of abandoned or antiquated infrastructure and features that restrict the free-flowing 

condition of the Merced River. Restoration of riparian habitat and enhancement of the free-flowing 

condition of the Merced River would have long-term, moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife in 

Yosemite Valley. Species that use riparian and riverine habitats would benefit the most from these 

actions, including mammals such as mule deer and black bear, reptiles such as garter snake, 

amphibians such as Pacific chorus frog, and many bird species such as songbirds and raptors. 

Additionally, these actions would have a long-term, moderate, beneficial impact on fish segment-wide 

as riparian habitat reestablish. 

Short-term, adverse impacts associated with restorative actions common to Alternatives 2-6 may 

include noise associated with restoration activities, human presence, and modification of habitat as a 

result of revegetation and removal of infrastructure. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures 

MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding 

the removal of vegetation where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and 

adverse. However, these adverse impacts are expected to only last for the duration of the restoration 

activity and over the long term, these restoration actions would have moderate, beneficial impacts on 

wildlife in Segment 2. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-368 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Cultural Resource Actions. Specific actions to enhance cultural resources in Segment 2 and common 

to Alternatives 2-6 include removing campsite 208 and bear box from the East Valley Campground. 

Additionally, bathroom foot traffic at this campground would be rerouted away from the milling 

feature and the feature would be protected by fencing. The removal of campsite 208 and rerouting of 

foot traffic would have long-term, negligible, and beneficial impacts on wildlife. Short-term, local 

adverse impacts include noise associated with restoration activities and human presence. Adhering to 

proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable 

(see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation where possible would reduce these shortterm impacts to minor and adverse. 

Scenic Resource Actions. Specific scenic resource actions in Segment 2 and common to Alternatives 2-

6 include removing or selectively thinning conifers and in some cases burning undergrowth to maintain 

views within Yosemite Valley. Additionally, the NPS would selectively clear vegetation, remove invasive 

blackberry, restore grassland and oak habitat in the foreground to the view of El Capitan, repair 

riverbank erosion and thin conifers to open the view of Merced River in the vicinity of Clark’s Bridge, 

and address informal trail use and vegetation trampling in the El Capitan area. 

Tree size can be used as an indicator to determine habitat suitability for many species of wildlife, 

including raptors and other bird species as well as mammals. According to the CWHR System, trees 

with a diameter at breast height (DBH) measuring 6 to 11 inches are considered pole trees, trees 

measuring between 11 and 24 inches are considered small trees, and trees measuring greater than 

24 inches are medium to large trees. Certain species, such as the California spotted owl, great gray owl, 

and long-eared owl, prefer dense mature forests with high canopy closure. The presence of black oaks 

in a mature forest setting is also beneficial to the California spotted owl as well as mule deer. 

Therefore, actions that affect large diameter trees or oaks are more likely to impacts these species. The 

total maximum number of trees over 6 inches DBH that would be removed in Segment 2 across 

Alternatives 2 to 6 is summarized in table 9-60. 

TABLE 9-60: MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES REMOVED COMMON TO ALTERNATIVES 2–6 IN SEGMENT 2

Species 

<12 

inches 

DBH 

<20 

inches 

DBH 

<30 

inches 

DBH 

<40 

inches

DBH 

<50 

inches 

DBH 

<60 

inches 

DBH 

<70 

inches 

DBH Total 

Black Oak 1 1 5 0 0 0 0 7 

Cedar 794 476 234 147 36 2 1 1,690 

Douglas Fir 1 6 1 0 3 0 0 11 

Dogwood 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 

White Fir 49 33 34 15 5 1 0 137 

Live Oak 7 3 0 0 0 0 0 10 

Ponderosa 355 277 443 386 94 9 3 1,567 

Total 1,208 796 717 548 138 12 4 3,423 

SOURCE: NPS 2012b
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Common to Alternatives 2-6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-369

Specific actions that selectively remove trees smaller than 6 inches DBH occur at Cook’s Meadow 

(south boardwalk), Stoneman Bridge, Devil’s Elbow, Swinging Bridge, and the Vernal Fall foot bridge. 

Actions to selectively remove trees less than 6 inches in DBH would result in long-term, local, 

negligible, and adverse impacts on wildlife because seedlings, saplings, and pole trees generally provide 

lower habitat value for wildlife as compared to larger, mature trees with denser canopies. 

Specific actions that remove primarily (50% or more) smaller trees measuring less than 20 inches DBH 

occur at the following locations: Ahwahnee Dining Room, Ahwahnee Solarium, Ahwahnee Lounge, 

Tunnel View, Southside Drive (Bridalveil approach via Roosevelt turnout), Valley View, Southside 

Drive at Roosevelt turnout, Bridalveil Fall hanging valley, Bridalveil Straight, Bridalveil Fall foot bridge, 

Sentinel Meadow boardwalk, Superintendent’s Bridge, Hutching’s View B, Chapel (Cook’s and 

Sentinel Meadow area), Stoneman Meadow boardwalk, Happy Isles Bridge, El Capitan Meadow (east 

end 1), Southside Drive (Cathedral Spires turnout), Wosky Pond, Cathedral Beach at the El Capitan 

area, El Capitan Postage Stamp Scene, Four Mile Trailhead, Yosemite Falls View, and Lower Falls 

Bridge. The primary tree species that would be removed at the locations listed above include Cedar 

and Ponderosa pine. Because most trees removed are small in size, their contribution to wildlife 

habitat is not as significant as larger trees within a mature forest setting. Many terrestrial mammals, 

birds, and bat species prefer larger trees (sometimes with suitable cavities) for shelter, nesting, and 

foraging. Thus, the specific action to selectively remove conifers at the locations listed would result in 

local, long-term, and minor to negligible adverse impacts on wildlife. 

Specific actions that remove primarily medium sized trees (50% or more trees are larger than 20 inches 

but less than 30 inches in DBH) occur at the Camp 6 Visitor Center benches. The removal of medium 

sized trees would result in local, long-term, and minor adverse impacts on wildlife. Medium sized trees 

(between 20 and 30 inches DBH) would provide habitat for many wildlife species, however, these trees 

are generally not large enough to support certain species that require mature forests, such as the 

California spotted owl. 

Specific actions that remove primarily large trees (50% or more trees are greater than 30 inches DBH) 

occur at the following locations: Ahwahnee Meadow (at Peeling Domes), Bridalveil Fall footbridge, 

Curry Village Amphitheater, Curry Village Parking Area, Housekeeping Camp Bridge, Sentinel Beach, 

and Yosemite Lodge Portico. Removal of large trees measuring more than 30 inches in DBH would 

result in long-term, local, minor to moderate, and adverse impacts on wildlife, especially species that 

inhabit dense, mature forest habitats. The primary tree species that would be removed at the locations 

listed above include Cedar and Ponderosa pine. 

In summary, specific scenic resource actions would remove approximately 3,423 trees, 59% of which 

would be small trees that measure less than 20 inches DBH. In addition, 20.5% of the total of trees 

removed would be medium in size (between 20 and 30 inches DBH), and 20.5% of the total of trees 

removed would be large or mature (more than 30 inches DBH). Only 4.5% of the total number of trees 

removed would be larger than 40 inches DBH. 

The removal of tress less than 20 inches DBH would have a long-term, local, minor to negligible 

adverse impact on fish and wildlife. Some of the proposed tree removal, in addition to improving 

scenic views of iconic features of Yosemite Valley, would reduce conifer encroachment into meadow 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-370 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

and wetland habitats. Thus, species that use meadow, grassland, riparian, oak woodland, and riverine 

habitats may benefit from these actions. However, the removal of large trees, and especially trees 

measuring more than 30 inches DBH, would have local, long-term, minor to moderate adverse effects 

on wildlife species that rely on late-seral stage coniferous habitats for breeding and foraging. 

In addition, these actions would result in short-term, adverse impacts associated with tree removal due 

to noise and human presence. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation 

where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to negligible and adverse. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

The overall diversity of activities available to visitors in Yosemite Valley would remain consistent 

across Alternatives 2–6. Differences in alternatives consist of options for the enhancement, reduction 

or removal of facilities and services and related uses. 

Actions common to Alternatives 2–6 to manage visitor use in Segment 2 include allowing private 

paddling, discontinuing several commercial services such as stock day rides and swimming pool 

operation, redesigning trails and boardwalks to improve pedestrian circulation, improving picnic 

areas, and creating an interpretive nature walk through Lower River Campground that emphasizes 

river-related natural processes. Some of these actions would result in short-term, local, minor, adverse 

impacts on wildlife as a result of trail construction and facility improvements, human presence, 

removal of vegetation, and ground disturbance. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MMHYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the 

removal of vegetation where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. In 

the long term, removing vegetation to construct the interpretive trail would reduce habitat for wildlife 

locally; however, visitors would be educated on the natural river processes and what they can do to 

protect the river, vegetation communities, and wildlife habitat. Therefore, this action would result in a 

local, long-term, negligible impact on wildlife. Continued private paddling on the river in Segment 2 

would result in continued long-term, minor, adverse impacts on localized areas of riverbanks, 

particularly at put-in and take-out locations. Reducing commercial services, such as stock day rides, 

would reduce impacts from stock use in riparian areas, thus effectively reducing the amount of 

vegetation trampling and erosion and sediment transport into the river over the long term in localized 

areas. 

Actions to manage park facilities across Alternatives 2–6 in Yosemite Valley include the removal of a 

number of facilities in the Valley (e.g., the Boystown Housing area, Happy Isles Snack Stand, and the 

Curry Village Ice Rink). Actions that would remove and reduce facilities and services throughout the 

Valley would constitute a net reduction in total developed space in the park; combined with reductions 

in park visitor use at specific campgrounds, these management actions would reduce human disturbance 

to wildlife associated with the use of these facilities. Removal and restoration activities associated with 

these actions would result in short-term, local, adverse impacts on wildlife from construction-related 

noise and potential impacts on vegetation adjacent to the activity. Adhering to proposed mitigation 

measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and 

avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Common to Alternatives 2-6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-371

adverse. These actions would result in long-term, local, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife through 

reduction of human activities in the Valley, increased habitat for wildlife, and decreased potential for 

human-wildlife conflicts (especially with black bears). 

Some park facilities and services would be retained or constructed, including the construction of new 

campsites and replacing temporary housing with permanent dormitories (e.g., permanent dormitories 

for park employees at Curry Village). Operation of current facilities and construction of new facilities 

would result in long-term, local, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife through human-related impacts 

(such as noise, human presence, trash, and food availability) and reduction in wildlife habitat. Habitat 

fragmentation and integrity may be affected, depending on the location of proposed new facilities. 

Day parking capacity would vary by alternative in Segment 2. Additional parking would be added at 

Camp 6 across Alternatives 2–6; however, the amount would vary for each alternative. Actions to 

construct new parking would increase the total developed space in the park, increase human presence, 

and reduced habitat for wildlife. Thus, construction of new parking or expansion of existing parking 

lots would result in local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife. In the short-term, adverse 

impacts on wildlife include construction-related activities. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures 

MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1, and MM-WL-2, as applicable (see Appendix C),would 

mitigate these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Transportation-related actions in Yosemite Valley include removing some parking spaces and 

roadside parking, constructing a formal shuttle bus stop near Camp 4, and habitat restoration; these 

actions would result in short-term, local, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife. Adverse impacts include 

construction related noise and potential impacts on vegetation adjacent to the activity. Adhering to 

proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable 

(see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation where possible would reduce these shortterm impacts to minor and adverse. 

Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. Actions in the Camp 6 and Yosemite Village areas that are common to 

Alternatives 2-6 include the relocation of visitor vehicle services and concessioner general office 

functions to other buildings and the removal of the existing garage structure and concessioner general 

office; and transportation actions that formalize parking and public movement in the Camp 6 and 

Village Sport Shop area. 

Relocation of services and operations to other buildings would have no effect upon wildlife. 

Construction, activities associated with removing the existing garage structure and concessioner 

general office, as well as actions to formalize parking and public movement in the Camp 6 and Village 

Sport Shop area Camp 6 and Yosemite Village would result in direct, temporary and permanent losses 

of wildlife habitats and indirect effects related to construction activities. Direct losses of habitat are 

described in greater detail under each action alternative. 

Outside of previously developed areas, impacts from these actions would occur primarily in ponderosa 

pine forest and, to a lesser extent, montane riparian habitats. Losses and disturbance to these wildlife 

habitats would occur through vegetation clearing, grading, site development, or other surface 

disturbance (e.g., driving over vegetation). Construction of new facilities may also require the removal 

of some trees, including the removal of mature conifer and hardwood trees, trees with cavities, and 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-372 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

snags. Tree removal would be minimized through site design, and, if possible, older trees and snags 

would be retained for habitat. In addition, potentially affected wildlife habitats at Camp 6 and 

Yosemite Village are adjacent to already developed areas, and therefore currently experience high 

levels of visitation and human-related impacts such as vegetation trampling and soil compaction. 

The use of heavy equipment may result in direct effects to wildlife through injuries or death, 

specifically for small wildlife, such as songbirds, burrowing mammals, reptiles and amphibians. The 

use of heavy construction equipment and increased human presence may also indirectly affect wildlife 

by causing some species to relocate or avoid the area during construction. Construction activities 

would generate noise and ground vibrations, visual disturbance, and other disturbances associated 

with human presence. Species mortality, loss of suitable habitat, and/or abandonment of breeding sites 

would have an adverse impact on wildlife. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, 

MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of 

vegetation, where possible, would reduce these localized, short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

As part of these actions, informal parking along Sentinel Drive and several structures in the floodplain 

would also be removed. As discussed under the Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River 

Values section above, these restoration management actions would improve hydrologic function and 

restore ecological integrity of the Merced River corridor in Segment 2 and associated plant 

communities. This action would result in a localized, long-term, minor, beneficial impact to wildlife in 

Segment 2.

Yosemite Lodge & Camp 4. Actions in the Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 areas that are common to 

Alternatives 2-6 include the removal of temporary employee housing and the reconstruction of new 

housing. Under all alternatives, the NPS Volunteer Office (former Wellness Center), post office, 

swimming pool, and snack stand would all be removed, and the convenience shop and nature shop 

would be re-purposed. 

As described for actions at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village, re-purposing facilities would have no effect 

on wildlife. Construction and removal activities at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 would result in direct 

temporary and permanent losses of wildlife habitats similar to those described for Camp 6 and 

Yosemite Village. These losses would occur through vegetation clearing, grading, or other surface 

disturbance (e.g., driving over vegetation) and would occur entirely in ponderosa pine forest, a 

dominant habitat type in Segment 2. In addition, the wildlife habitats at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 

experience high levels of visitation and human-related impacts such as vegetation trampling and soil 

compaction. Therefore, for the same reasons discussed above for the Camp 6 and Yosemite Village 

area, actions that are common to Alternatives 2-6 at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 would result in local, 

short-term, minor, adverse impacts to wildlife in Segment 2. 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced Gorge and El Portal 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Restorative management actions that would occur in Segment 4 under Alternatives 2–6 that may affect 

wildlife include developing best management practices for revetment construction and repair. Currently 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Common to Alternatives 2-6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-373

the river is confined by riprap and El Portal Road in Segment 4; to improve the free flow of the river, the 

park would use vertical walls wherever possible and provide the California Department of Transportation 

(CalTrans) with best management practice recommendations when repair or replacement is necessary in 

Segment 4. Other management actions that would enhance the free-flowing condition of the Merced 

River in Segments 3 and 4 include the removal of abandoned infrastructure and imported fill at the 

Cascades Picnic Area, Abbieville, and Trailer Village. Additionally, the NPS would restore the 

Greenemeyer sand pit to natural conditions. The Odger’s fuel storage facility would be removed and the 

area restored. The types of habitat that would be affected by these restoration actions in Segment 4, as 

well as the types of habitat that would be enhanced or restored, are summarized in table 9-61. 

TABLE 9-61: HABITAT RESTORATION COMMON TO ALTERNATIVES 2–6 IN SEGMENT 4 

Current WHR 

Habitat Typea Acres Proposed WHR Habitat Typea

Acres (WHR Habitat Type 

Restored/Enhanced)b

Foothill broadleaf woodland 1 Valley oak woodland 1 

Lower montane needleleaf 11 Riparian & floodplain 11 

Total 12 Total 12 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in 

meadow systems), or restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, and 2011. 

As summarized in table 9-61, approximately 12 acres of riparian, floodplain, and valley oak woodland 

habitat would be restored in Segment 4 under all Alternatives 2–6, thus resulting in direct benefits to 

fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. These management actions would also result in local, 

short-term, adverse impacts, which may include noise associated with repair or replacement activities, 

human presence, modification of habitat, and temporary increase in suspended sediments. Adhering 

to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable 

(see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation where possible would reduce these shortterm impacts to minor and adverse. However, implementation of these actions would improve the 

free-flowing condition of the Merced River and reduce localized scouring. Thus, these actions would 

have long-term, local, moderate, beneficial impacts on fish and other aquatic wildlife. 

Biological Resource Actions. Specific restoration actions to protect and enhance river values within 

Segment 4 and common to Alternatives 2-6 include removing development, asphalt and imported fill 

at Abbieville and the Trailer Village in West El Portal. The NPS would recontour and plant native 

riparian plant species and oaks within the 150-foot riparian buffer. Restoration of riparian habitat in 

the Abbieville and Trailer Village areas would result in local, long-term, minor, and beneficial impacts 

on wildlife within West El Portal (Segment 4). Species that use riparian and oak woodland habitats 

would benefit the most from this action. Additionally, this action would have a long-term, minor, local, 

beneficial impact on fish as riparian habitat is established. Short-term, adverse impacts include noise 

associated with restoration activities, and human presence. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures 

MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-374 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

the removal of vegetation where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and 

adverse. However, these adverse impacts are expected to only last for the duration of the restoration 

activity and over the long term, this restoration action would have minor, beneficial impacts on 

wildlife in Segment 4. 

Scenic Resource Actions. Scenic resource actions in Segment 3 and common to Alternatives 2-6 include 

selective removal of encroaching conifers at the Cascade Falls Viewpoint. Oak trees within this location 

would remain protected as an ethnographic ORV. The total maximum number of trees over 6 inches 

DBH that would be removed in Segment 3 across Alternatives 2 to 6 is summarized in table 9-62. 

TABLE 9-62: MAXIMUM NUMBER OF TREES REMOVED COMMON TO ALTERNATIVES 2–6 IN SEGMENT 3 

Species 

<12 

inches 

DBH 

<20 

inches 

DBH 

<30 

inches 

DBH 

<40 

inches 

DBH 

<50 

inches 

DBH 

<60 

inches 

DBH 

<70 

inches 

DBH Total 

Cedar 6 0 0 1 0 0 0 7 

Live Oak 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 

Ponderosa 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 3 

Red Fir 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 

Total 10 2 1 1 0 0 0 14 

SOURCE: NPS 2012b

As described previously in the Scenic Resource Actions under actions common to Alternatives 2-6 in 

Segment 2, tree DBH size provides information to determine which wildlife species may be supported 

by a particular ecosystem. Specific actions to selectively remove conifers in Segment 3 at the Cascade 

Falls Viewpoint would remove primarily (approximately 71%) smaller trees measuring less than 

12 inches in DBH. Two large trees would be removed at Cascade Falls Viewpoint, including a 

Ponderosa pine (<30 inches DBH) and a cedar (<40 inches DBH). Because most trees removed are 

small in size, their contribution to wildlife habitat is not as significant as larger trees within a mature 

forest setting. Many terrestrial mammals, birds, and bat species prefer larger trees (sometimes with 

suitable cavities) for shelter, nesting, and foraging. Some tree removal, in addition to improving scenic 

views of features in Segment 3, would reduce conifer encroachment into meadow and wetland 

habitats. Thus, the specific action to selectively remove conifers at the Cascade Falls Viewpoint would 

result in local, long-term, and minor to negligible adverse impacts on wildlife. Short-term, adverse 

impacts associated with tree removal may include noise associated with restoration activities, human 

presence, and modification of habitat. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, 

MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of 

vegetation where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to negligible and adverse. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Visitor activities in Segments 3 and 4 primarily consist of scenic driving along Highway 140 enroute to 

Yosemite Valley, picnicking, rock-climbing, swimming, and fishing. Paddling activities would vary 

across Alternatives 2–6 in Segments 3 and 4. No overnight accommodations are provided in these 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Common to Alternatives 2-6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-375

segments across Alternatives 2–6. An additional visitor restroom would be constructed in 

Old El Portal. Low-density employee housing would remain unchanged in Segment 3 and would 

increase in Segment 4 at El Portal Village Center. All housing redevelopment in this area will be outside 

the 100-year floodplain. All other redevelopment will be outside the 150-foot riparian buffer. An 

increase in housing and facilities development increases the total built environment in Segment 4. 

Although the additional housing units proposed at El Portal would be placed in nine vacant lots to 

infill the area, these developments would result in short-term impacts on wildlife from construction 

activities and human presence; in the long term, these actions would result in local, minor, adverse 

impacts on wildlife caused by increased disturbance from human presence and human-wildlife 

conflicts. Parking and public transportation would be consistent with actions proposed for Segment 2 

and would apply throughout Alternatives 2–6. 

Other visitor use management actions that would occur in Segment 3 under all Alternatives 2–6 that 

would potentially affect wildlife include selective removal of conifers that affect visitor views of 

Cascade Falls from El Portal Road. The removal, transport, and disposal of conifers, along with the 

subsequent restoration and monitoring associated with this work, would result in short- and longterm, local, adverse impacts, including noise associated with removal work, human presence, ground 

disturbance, removal of habitat, and potential sedimentation of adjacent aquatic habitat. Adhering to 

proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable 

(see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation where possible would reduce these impacts 

to minor and adverse. However, due to the selective removal of trees and abundance of similar habitat 

adjacent to removal sites, this measure would result in long-term, local, minor to negligible, and 

adverse impacts to wildlife species that depend on conifers for shelter and foraging. 

Segments 5– 8: South Fork Merced River 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Biological Resource Actions. Specific restoration actions to protect and enhance river values within 

Segment 7 and common to Alternatives 2-6 include relocating two stock use campgrounds sites from 

the Wawona Stock Campground to the Wawona Stables. Actions common to Alternatives 2-6 to 

restore riparian and upland forested habitats at the Wawona Stock Campground in Segment 7 would 

have local, long-term, minor, and beneficial impacts on wildlife. Short-term, local, minor, and adverse 

impacts include noise associated with relocation activities and human presence. Adhering to proposed 

mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see 

Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation where possible would reduce these short-term 

impacts to minor and adverse. However, these adverse impacts are expected to only last for the 

duration of the restoration activity and over the long term, this restoration action would have minor, 

beneficial impacts on wildlife in Segment 7. Additionally, this action would have a long-term, minor to 

negligible, local, beneficial impact on fish as riparian habitat is established. 

Hydrologic/Geologic Resource Actions. Restoration actions associated with hydrologic/geologic in 

Segment 6 and common to Alternatives 2-6 include retaining the current water collection and 

distribution system at the Wawona Impoundment and implementing the water conservation plan 

related to the minimum flow analysis for the South Fork Merced River. Keeping the current water 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-376 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

collection and distribution system would continue to reduce the flow of water during dry summer 

months. Additionally, the impoundment is located within the bed and banks of the river, which affect 

the free-flowing condition of the river. The excessive water withdrawals limit aquatic life within this 

segment of the Merced River. Thus, the action described above would have long-term, segmentwide, 

minor, and adverse impacts on wildlife, especially aquatic species that inhabit riverine habitat. 

Cultural Resource Actions. Specific restoration actions related to cultural resources in Segment 7 and 

common to Alternatives 2-6 include removing 7 campsites from the Wawona Campground which 

currently cause potential impacts to the archeological site CA-MRP-168/329/H (Camp A.E. Wood). 

The removal of 7 campsites would increase wildlife habitat and reduce human presence at the 

Wawona Campground in Segment 7 and would have long-term, minor, and beneficial impacts on 

wildlife. Short-term, local, and adverse impacts include noise associated with restoration activities and 

human presence. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to 

MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation where possible 

would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Restoration management actions to improve water quality of the South Fork Merced River include 

relocating the Wawona Campground dump station away from the river and delineating the boundaries 

of the South Fork Picnic Area. River access improvements, such as adding formal river access points, 

constructing pathways and staircase, and installing fencing, would guide visitor access to more resilient 

areas and prevent riverbank erosion. The types of habitat that would be affected by these actions in 

Segment 7, as well as the types of habitat that would be enhance or restored, are summarized in 

table 9-63. 

TABLE 9-63: HABITAT RESTORATION COMMON TO ALTERNATIVES 2–6 IN SEGMENT 7 

Current WHR 

Habitat Typea Acres 

Proposed future WHR 

Habitat Typea

Acres (WHR Habitat Type 

Restored/Enhanced)b

Coniferous forest 3 

Riparian: cottonwood, willow, 

mix of upland deciduous & 

coniferous forest 

3 

Total 3 Total 3 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow 

systems), or restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, and 2011. 

As summarized in table 9-63, approximately three acres of riparian habitat would be restored in 

Segment 7 under Alternatives 2–6 as a result of moving improvements away from the riparian zone. 

These actions would result in short-term, local, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife during construction 

activities. In the long term, these actions would allow for designated river access while reducing 

vegetation trampling and erosion in riparian habitat. Thus, in the long term, these actions would 

provide a minor, local, beneficial impact to wildlife. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Common to Alternatives 2-6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-377

The Wawona Maintenance area currently extends to the riverbank and affects riparian habitat by soil 

compaction, storage of nonnative fill material, and storage of vehicles and other supplies. To reduce 

riparian impacts and restore the area, the park would remove staged materials, abandoned utilities, 

vehicles, and the parking lot from the riparian buffer and restore a 150-foot-wide area to natural 

conditions. This action would result in short-term, local, adverse impacts on wildlife associated with 

abandonment and restoration activities (i.e., noise, ground disturbance, and human presence). 

Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as 

applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce 

these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, the action would restore habitat and in the 

long-term would provide minor, local, beneficial impacts to terrestrial and aquatic wildlife that use 

riparian and riverine habitat. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Visitor use in wilderness areas above Wawona (Segment 5) would remain very low and river values 

would remain protected across Alternatives 2–6. Generally, visitor activities would consist of 

occasional overnight backpacking, day hiking, and stock-assisted pack trips. Parking for access to 

Segment 5 is through day parking in the Wawona area (in Segment 7). There are no employee housing 

and very limited administrative uses in Segment 5. Due to the low amount of visitor and administrative 

use in Segment 5, wildlife habitat would remain relatively intact and undisturbed. The amount, 

distribution, and integrity of wildlife habitat would remain relatively unchanged from current 

conditions. Actions to manage visitor use and faculties in Segment 5 would be expected to result in 

long-term, local, negligible, adverse impacts on wildlife. 

Visitor use is not allowed in Segment 6 due to water quality and safety concerns associated with the 

Wawona Impoundment. Visitor use in Segment 8 is very minimal, and river values would continue to 

be protected. Thus, wildlife habitat would remain relatively intact and relatively undisturbed by park 

visitors in Segments 6 and 8, with no resulting effects on wildlife. 

Under Alternatives 2–6, the NPS would develop a wastewater collection system for the Wawona 

Campground to connect the facility to the existing wastewater treatment plant. The NPS would 

continue implementing the water conservation plan related to the minimum flow analysis for the 

South Fork Merced River and retain current water collection and distribution system associated with 

the Wawona Impoundment. Implementation of these actions would reduce water withdrawal rates 

and improve the free-flowing condition of the river and improve local water quality. While 

construction of the facility would result in local, short-term, minor, adverse impacts related to noise 

and human disturbance, these actions would result in a long-term, minor, local, beneficial impact on 

fish and other aquatic life as water quality is improved. 

The NPS maintenance and administrative building complex would be redesigned and improved under 

Alternatives 2–6. Additional administrative facilities would be constructed. Employee housing capacity 

at the Wawona community or elsewhere outside of the Merced River corridor would remain 

unchanged. Regional bus service similar to that provided on the Highway 140 corridor would be 

introduced between Fresno and Yosemite Valley; existing bus service between Wawona and the 

Mariposa Grove and Wawona and Yosemite Valley would remain unchanged under Alternatives 2–6 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-378 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

but may expand under certain alternatives. The actions to manage visitor use, overnight 

accommodations, park facilities, employee housing, and public transportation would result in longterm, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife and their habitat. As previously discussed, human presence, 

recreational activities, and overnight lodging potentially affect wildlife by various means, including 

noise, traffic, introduction of human food, and impacts on riparian and riverine habitats. 

Lastly, a redesign of the bus stop to accommodate visitor use in Wawona is proposed. In the shortterm, wildlife and their associated habitat would be affected by construction activities, such as noise, 

ground disturbance, vegetation removal, and temporary increase in human presence. Adhering to 

proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable 

(see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation where possible, would reduce these shortterm impacts to minor and adverse. Over the long-term, this action would have local, long-term, 

negligible, adverse impacts on wildlife. 

Summary of Impacts Common to Alternatives 2–6 

Many of the actions common to Alternatives 2–6 would address existing adverse habitat trends for fish 

and wildlife. This includes actions that are targeted to improve habitat quality for aquatic, ripariandependent, and meadow-dependent fish and wildlife where these habitats are near or adjacent to 

existing developments and high visitor use areas. Additionally, the NPS would implement measures to 

enhance the ecological complexity of riparian and aquatic habitat in targeted areas, increase channel 

free flow, improve water quality, and reduce erosion and scouring. Toward these ends, the NPS would 

remove abandoned infrastructure in or adjacent to the Merced River, remove or relocate facilities that 

contribute to erosion/sedimentation/water quality issues, strategically place large woody debris within 

the channel, and use best management practices for revetment construction and repair throughout the 

river corridor. To restore meadow and riparian habitat, the NPS would remove informal trails and 

abandoned infrastructures, selectively remove encroaching conifers, improve trails that are unstable or 

traverse through meadow/wet habitats, restrict or manage the use of pack stock, revegetate denuded 

areas, and install fencing and visual cues to direct the public away from sensitive areas. When totaled, 

approximately 151 acres of meadow, riparian, black oak woodland, valley oak woodland, coniferous 

forest, and floodplain habitat would be restored or enhanced under actions common to Alternatives 2–6. 

In the long term, these measures would improve hydrologic connectivity of meadows and floodplains 

to the river, enhance habitat complexity in riparian and aquatic zones, reduce human and pack-related 

disturbances, and reduce nonnative species and conifer intrusion into sensitive habitat. Adverse effects 

from these actions would primarily be associated with the active construction phase, and would be 

local, short term, and minor or negligible. 

While there would be some long-term effects on wildlife associated with the movement and 

construction of new facilities, these impacts would be offset by the proposed restoration actions, 

resulting in a net beneficial impact on wildlife corridorwide. When combined, the long-term effect of 

all of these measures would be a moderate, beneficial impact on wildlife and fish resources as habitats 

are restored and fragmentation and radiating impacts are reduced when compared to Alternative 1 

(No Action). These effects would be most pronounced in areas of high human use such as Yosemite 

Valley and Wawona (Segments 2 and 7, respectively). 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 2 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-379

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

Extensive Floodplain Restoration 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Merced Lake East Meadow near the Merced Lake Ranger Station has high levels of pack stock use, 

which contributes to lower vegetation cover and higher levels of bare ground. Under Alternatives 2, 

grazing would be permanently removed from the Merced Lake East Meadow. The park would require 

administrative pack stock passing through the Merced Lake area to rely on pellet feed that is packed 

into the site instead of allowing pack stock to graze in the meadow. This would help protect meadow 

vegetation from high levels of grazing by reducing the level of vegetation trampling by administrative 

pack stock and reducing the dispersal of manure and roll pits. These actions would have local, minor 

beneficial impacts to fish and wildlife species over the long term. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Actions to manage visitor use and facilities in Segment 1 under Alternative 2 would largely have beneficial 

impacts on wildlife over the long term. Little Yosemite Valley Backpackers Camping Area would be 

converted to dispersed camping to reduce crowding and congestion, designated camping at Moraine 

Dome Camping Area would be discontinued, and the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp would be closed 

(to allow for expansion of designated camping from Merced Lake Backpackers Camping Area into the 

existing footprint), and the flush toilet and water system would be replaced by a composter. The actions 

listed above would result in less human disturbance and enhanced wilderness character of these camping 

areas, including approximately 11 acres of meadow and subalpine restoration in these areas. Although 

dispersed camping may increase the chance of human/mountain lion encounters, which are more 

common when human use is dispersed (Beier 1991), dispersed camping would also reduce adverse 

impacts that are associated with concentrated human use, including noise and traffic congestion, heavy 

vegetation trampling and soil compaction, and the attraction of both native and nonnative wildlife 

scavenging for human food. Wildlife would also benefit from the overall reduction of the built 

environment, increase in habitat availability, and enhanced habitat quality. 

Actions related to the conversion or removal of facilities, including converting Little Yosemite Valley 

Backpackers Camping Area and Moraine Dome Campground to dispersed camping and removing 

infrastructure that is incompatible with wilderness character (such as composting toilets, bear boxes, and 

other supporting infrastructures) and closing Merced Lake High Sierra Camp and restoring the area to 

natural conditions, would result in short-term, adverse impacts but long-term, beneficial impacts. 

Construction activities, including the demolition and removal of existing improvements, would result in 

short-term, local, adverse impacts on wildlife related to noise, potential for sediment discharge from 

disturbed soils, and human presence. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MMVEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of 

vegetation, where possible, would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. In the long 

term, these actions are expected to reduce human-related impacts on wildlife and habitats, thus resulting 

in local, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-380 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

In summary, total daily use levels in Segment 1 under Alternative 2 would be reduced. This reduction 

in overnight facilities and overnight visitors represents a reduction in human presence, human-related 

pressures on wildlife, and reduced future impacts on fish and wildlife habitat in localized areas of 

Segment 1. Collectively, actions to manage visitor use and facilities under Alternative 2 would result in 

long-term, local, minor, beneficial impacts on fish and wildlife in Segment 1. 

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp. The actions in the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp area proposed 

under Alternative 2 involve the conversion of the area to designated Wilderness, the closure of the 

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp, and the expansion of dispersed camping at Merced Lake Backpackers 

Camping Area into the High Sierra Camp footprint. As described above, construction activities 

associated with the demolition and removal of the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp would result in 

short-term, local, adverse impacts on wildlife related to noise, potential for sediment discharge from 

disturbed soils, and human presence. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MMVEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of 

vegetation, where possible, would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. Once 

completed, these actions would result in a local, long-term, minor, beneficial impact on fish and 

wildlife in Segment 1 by reducing stresses related to concentrated human use. 

Segment 1 Impact Summary: Actions to restore river values and manage visitor use and facilities 

within Segment 1 would have local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on fish and wildlife. 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Alternative 2 proposes substantial restoration actions in Segment 2 that would directly benefit fish and 

wildlife in the Merced River corridor over the long term. To enhance the free-flow character of the 

Merced River, address river widening issues, and increase river complexity, the NPS would remove 

bridges (Ahwahnee, Sugar Pine, and Stoneman bridges) and restore these areas to natural conditions; 

reroute or redesign trails and roadways; and construct constructed logjams in the river channel between 

Clark’s and Sentinel bridges to enhance river complexity. These actions would directly benefit fish and 

wildlife associated with the aquatic habitats of the Merced River. Water quality in the river would also be 

improved by relocating parking lots, rerouting roads, removing fill material, and removing pack stock 

trails and associated Curry Village stables outside of the floodplain, and restoring meadow and 

floodplain ecosystems. Formalizing some areas for parking and river access and restricting parking and 

river access in other sensitive areas would benefit both riparian habitat establishment and water quality. 

The types of habitat that would be affected by these restoration actions in Segment 2, as well as the types 

of habitat that would be enhanced or restored, are summarized in table 9-64. 

As summarized in table 9-64, approximately 271 acres of meadow, riparian, black oak woodland, 

coniferous forest, broadleaved forest, and floodplain habitats would be enhanced or restored in 

Segment 2 under Alternative 2 (this includes restoration actions common to Alternatives 2-6), resulting 

in direct benefits to fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. Wildlife species inhabiting wetlands, 

riparian habitat, and riverine ecosystems would benefit the most from actions that remove overnight 

facilities and associated infrastructure (riprap, asphalt pads, trails) from the floodplain, including 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 2 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-381

TABLE 9-64: ALTERNATIVE 2 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 2 

Current Habitat Type Acres Proposed Future 

Habitat Type 

Acres Restored or 

Enhanced 

Barren 0 

Meadow 18 Meadow 20 

Sparsely vegetated 2 

Lower montane broadleaf 16 Lower montane broadleaf 16 

Lower montane needleleaf 75 

A mosaic of meadow, 

black oak, and open 

canopy coniferous forest 

75 

Barren 9 

Lower montane broadleaf 1 Riparian & floodplain 152 

Lower montane needleleaf 142 

Lower montane needleleaf 8 Riparian 8 

Total 271 Total 271 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in 

meadow systems), or restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. 

b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, and 2011. 

selective campgrounds in Yosemite Valley, the former Upper and Lower Pines campgrounds, 

Housekeeping Camp, and Yosemite Lodge. Restoration of these areas and former campgrounds (e.g., 

former Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds) would prevent further riverbank erosion, provide 

hydrologic connectivity for meadows and riparian habitats, reduce vegetation trampling, enhance the 

hydrologic function in the 2-year to 10-year floodplains, enhance water quality, increase the amount of 

wildlife habitat, increase productivity in riparian and aquatic ecosystems, and reduce human presence 

and human-related impacts. These actions would therefore have segmentwide, long-term, moderate, 

beneficial effects on aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. Like other restoration actions, these actions would 

also have short-term, adverse impacts on wildlife related to noise, human presence, and potential 

impacts on water quality during construction; adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, 

MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1, and MM-WL-2, as applicable (see Appendix C),would reduce these shortterm impacts to minor and adverse. 

To increase the frequency of inundation in the riparian zone, meadows, and floodplain in the vicinity of 

El Capitan moraine, the park would mitigate for the removal of the terminal moraine through placement 

of large wood loading upstream of El Capitan moraine to Sentinel picnic area and constructed logjams in 

the channel. This would effectively restore water to meadows during high water events. This restorative 

action would result in local, short-term, adverse impacts on fish and wildlife, including noise associated 

with construction-related activities; ground disturbance; human presence; increases in sedimentation; 

and potential for incidental spills to reach aquatic habitats (including the Merced River). Adhering to 

proposed mitigation measures presented MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as 

applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce 

these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, this action would also restore the 100-year 

floodplain and associated plant communities (meadows and riparian habitat), improve hydrological 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-382 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

connectivity of these communities to the river, and improve primary food production for fish. Thus, this 

restoration action would have a segmentwide, long-term, moderate, beneficial impact on fish and other 

aquatic species that use the Merced River and adjacent riparian habitat. 

Under Alternative 2, the NPS would implement measures to restore and protect meadow and wetland 

habitat while providing adequate access to visitors. Currently, the location of some roads and trails 

bisect or otherwise cross through meadows and cause fragmentation, soil compaction, and vegetation 

trampling of valley meadows. Additionally, these roads and trails limit or disrupt meadow hydrologic 

connectivity. To address these issues, the park would remove and reroute trails outside of meadows 

and wetlands, consolidate trails where possible, and restore meadow contours and native vegetation. 

All informal trails would be removed and roadside parking would be reduced through alternative 

striping and consolidated parking where possible. Housing between the Yosemite Village Store and 

Ahwahnee Meadow would be removed and the area recontoured to historical topography; soils and 

native vegetation would be restored. The park would use restoration fencing to designate appropriate 

meadow access points and guide visitors toward boardwalks and viewing platforms to protect meadow 

habitat. These actions would collectively improve meadow and wetland habitat integrity, increase the 

extent of meadows, and enhance contiguity of meadow habitats as well as hydrological connectivity 

between meadow, riparian, and floodplain habitats, resulting in long-term benefits to wildlife that use 

these meadow systems. 

Collectively, restoration actions proposed in Segment 2 under Alternative 2 would result in local, 

minor, short-term, adverse impacts on wildlife during construction but substantial long-term benefits. 

Potential minor, adverse impacts include noise related to restoration/removal activities, human 

presence, and removal of vegetation or alteration of habitat that is in or immediately adjacent to 

affected areas. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to 

MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, 

would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, implementation of these 

actions would also enhance meadow and riparian habitat quality by reducing fragmentation, soil 

compaction, vegetation trampling, erosion, and hydrological disconnection; enhancing channel free 

flow; and increasing channel complexity. Thus, when combined, the actions would result in 

segmentwide, long-term, moderate, beneficial impact on fish and wildlife that use these habitats, as 

habitat quality, quantity, and integrity are substantially improved and habitat disturbance is 

substantially decreased in Segment 2. 

Biological Resource Actions. 

Yosemite Valley Campgrounds: Under Alternative 2, specific restoration actions to enhance the 

river’s biological values in Segment 2 include removing all campsites within 100 feet of the bed and 

banks of the Merced River and restoring 25.1 acres of floodplain/riparian habitat, and removing all 

informal trails and reducing roadside parking at El Capitan Meadow. Restoration of riparian habitat 

throughout Yosemite Valley would result in segment-wide, long-term, moderate, and beneficial 

impacts to fish and wildlife. 

El Capitan Meadow: In addition to actions common to Alternatives 2-6, the NPS would remove all 

informal trails and reduce roadside parking through alternative striping and consolidate parking to the 

west end of the meadow to reduce impacts to El Capitan Meadow. Restoration of El Capitan Meadow 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 2 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-383

and elimination of roadside parking adjacent to the meadow would result in local, long-term, minor, 

and beneficial impacts on wildlife from reduction in trampling from foot traffic and impacts to 

meadow habitat associated with roadside parking. 

Ahwahnee Meadow: Specific actions under Alternative 2 in Segment 2 to enhance the river’s 

biological values at the Ahwahnee Meadow include: rerouting or removing trails which traverse 

wetlands in the Ahwahnee meadow and consolidating trail use with the Housekeeping Footbridge trail 

where possible, removing 900 feet of Northside Drive and relocating the bike path to the south of 

Ahwahnee Meadow, and restoring meadow contours and native vegetation. Meadow restoration, trail 

rerouting and removal, and removal of a portion of Northside Drive would result in local, long-term, 

moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife at the Ahwahnee Meadow as wetland fragmentation and 

vegetation trampling is reduced, and wetland connectivity to the river is enhanced. 

Stoneman Meadow: Under Alternative 2, the park would restore Stoneman Meadow by removing 

1,335 feet of Southside Drive and re-aligning the road through the Boys Town area. The Orchard 

Parking Lot would be redesigned and engineering solutions would be applied to promote water flow 

and improve meadow health to increase drainage from the cliff walls to Stoneman Meadow. The 

meadow boardwalk would be extended through wet areas to Curry Village (up to 275'). Restoration of 

Stoneman Meadow and protection of sensitive wetland habitat would result in local, long-term, minor 

to moderate, and beneficial impacts on meadow wildlife. 

Former Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds: Specific actions to enhance biological values of the 

Merced River at the Former Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds in Alternative 2 include restoring 

30 acres of the 10-year floodplain. Under Alternative 2, the park would remove the remaining asphalt, 

decompact soils of former roads and campsites, and re-establish seasonal channels and natural 

topography that have been filled. Additionally, the park would remove the Lower River amphitheater 

structure and fill. Following habitat restoration, temporary fencing would be installed to protect the 

restoration areas and to allow for recovery. Restoration of the Former Upper and Lower Rivers 

Campgrounds would result in local, long-term, moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife inhabiting 

riparian and riverine habitats, including mammals such as mule deer and black bear, reptiles such as 

garter snake, amphibians such as Pacific chorus frog, and many bird species such as songbirds and 

raptors. 

Short-term, adverse impacts associated with restorative actions at the Yosemite Valley campgrounds, 

El Capitan, Ahwahnee, and Stoneman meadows, and at the Former Upper and Lower Rivers 

Campgrounds under Alternative 2 may include noise associated with restoration activities, human 

presence, and modification of habitat as a result of rerouting or formalizing trails, removal of campsites 

and fill, and revegetation. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MMWL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation where 

possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, these adverse 

impacts are expected to only last for the duration of the restoration activity (campsite removal and 

habitat restoration) and over the long term, these restoration actions would have moderate, beneficial 

impacts on wildlife in Segment 2. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-384 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Hydrologic/Geologic Resource Actions. Under Alternative 2, restoration actions associated with 

hydrologic/geologic resources in Segment 2 include moving unimproved parking areas out of sensitive 

floodplain habitat at Camp 6, removing the Stoneman, Ahwahnee, and Sugar Pine Bridges to enhance 

the free-flowing condition of the Merced River. Additionally, fill material would be removed and 

meadow and floodplain habitats would be restored. Southside Drive would be converted to a two-way 

road and the Sentinel intersection would be redesigned. Restoration of meadow, riparian and 

floodplain habitats and the removal or relocation of infrastructure that constrict the free-flowing 

condition of the river or are located in sensitive areas under Alternative 2 would have long-term, 

moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife within Yosemite Valley. Species that use meadow, 

riparian and riverine habitats would benefit the most from these actions, including mammals such as 

mule deer and black bear, reptiles such as garter snake, amphibians such as Pacific chorus frog, and 

many bird species such as songbirds and raptors. Additionally, these actions would have a long-term, 

moderate, beneficial impact on fish as riparian habitat establishes and the free flowing condition of the 

river is enhanced in Segment 2. 

Short-term, local, minor, and adverse impacts associated with restorative actions under Alternative 2 

may include noise associated with restoration activities, human presence, and modification of habitat 

as a result of bridge removal and revegetation. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of 

vegetation where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, 

these adverse impacts are expected to only last for the duration of the restoration activity (bridge 

removal and habitat restoration) and over the long term, these restoration actions would have 

moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife in Segment 2. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

In addition to actions that are common to Alternatives 2–6, Alternative 2 would limit boating activities in 

Segment 2, remove the Curry Village stables and the Yosemite Lodge bicycle stand, and repurpose 

several park facilities. Some visitor amenities such as the Housekeeping Camp laundry, shower houses 

and restrooms, and grocery store would also be removed. Additionally, employee temporary housing at 

Curry Village would be removed and permanent housing would be constructed. Temporary housing at 

the Lost Arrow parking lot would be removed and parking spaces would be reestablished. Although 

some development would occur under Alternative 2, these actions in combination with restorative and 

management actions would result in minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife in localized areas of Segment 2. 

Under Alternative 2 wayfinding between Happy Isles and the Mist Trail from the shuttle stop would be 

improved. Because inadequate wayfinding contributes to vegetation trampling, thus causing a large 

area of denuded vegetation in this area, improving wayfinding for visitors would facilitate for 

vegetation reestablishment over time. In the long term, this action would result in local, minor, 

beneficial impacts on wildlife by protecting riparian vegetation. 

Actions to reduce visitor overnight capacities in the Valley, including the Housekeeping Camp, Yosemite 

Lodge, Curry Village, Backpacker’s Campground, Upper Pines Campground, and North Pines 

Campground, would result in beneficial impacts on wildlife as human interactions and impacts are 

reduced. In addition, visitor day parking would be reduced and the Curry Orchard day parking area 

would be formalized. These actions are expected to have long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 2 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-385

in Segment 2 with the restoration of Stoneman Meadow and additional formal accommodation for 

parking in the Valley; visitors would be less likely to park in undesignated areas and affect meadow and 

other habitats. 

Curry Village & Campgrounds. Actions under Alternative 2 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Curry Village include the construction of 78 hard-sided units at Boys Town. The 

units would be constructed within previously developed areas as well as within habitats adjacent to the 

existing Curry Village site. 

Construction activities at Curry Village would result in direct temporary and permanent losses of 

wildlife habitats as well as the redevelopment of existing developed areas (see table 9-65). Outside of 

previously developed areas, impacts to wildlife habitats would primarily occur in ponderosa pine 

forest and, to a much lesser extent, wet meadow habitat. Losses would occur through vegetation 

clearing, grading, site development or other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over vegetation). As 

shown in table 9-65 below, only a small percentage of these wildlife habitats would be affected by the 

facility actions at Curry Village. Impacts to wet meadow habitat would occur in a small meadow area 

currently disconnected from the larger Stoneman Meadow to the north by Happy Isle Loop Road. In 

addition, the wildlife habitats at Curry Village are adjacent to already develop areas, and therefore 

currently experience high levels of visitation and human-related impacts and disturbance. Therefore, 

losses in habitat, while long-term, would be local, adverse and minor. 

TABLE 9-65: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

CURRY VILLAGE & CAMPGROUNDS – ALTERNATIVE 2 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Ponderosa Pine 6.35 0.4% 

Wet Meadow 0.03 <0.1% 

Redevelopmentb 1.97 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

The use of heavy equipment during construction within ponderosa pine and wet meadow habitats 

may result in injuries or death to some species of wildlife, as described for actions common to 

Alternatives 2-6. Construction activities would also generate noise and increases in human presence, 

which may cause wildlife to relocate or avoid the area. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures 

presented MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and 

avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce these localized, short-term impacts 

to minor and adverse. 

Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. Actions under Alternative 2 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village include measures to formalize and relocate parking 

facilities and Northside Drive outside the 10-year floodplain. The Camp 6/Village Center Parking Area 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-386 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

would be formalized to include 550 designated parking spaces by redeveloping part of the current 

administrative footprint. In addition, 100 parking spaces would be added at Yosemite Village. 

Northside Drive would be rerouted south of the parking areas and out of the dynamic 10-year 

floodplain. Fill material would be removed from the floodplain and the area would be restored to 

meadow and floodplain ecosystems. 

As noted in table 9-66, over half of the area affected by the above actions would occur at sites that are 

already developed. Outside of those sites, the actions at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village would result in 

direct temporary and permanent losses of montane riparian and ponderosa pine forest habitat types. 

Losses to these habitat types would occur through vegetation clearing, grading, site development or 

other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over vegetation). As shown in table 9-66, only a small 

percentage of these wildlife habitats would be impacted by the actions at Camp 6 and Yosemite 

Village. The potentially affected wildlife habitats are adjacent to already developed areas, and 

therefore experience high levels of visitation and human-related impacts. Therefore, losses in habitat, 

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

TABLE 9-66: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

CAMP 6 & YOSEMITE VILLAGE – ALTERNATIVE 2 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Riparian 1.37 0.4% 

Ponderosa Pine 9.03 0.5% 

Redevelopmentb 11.55 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Like actions at Curry Village, construction activities would result in short-term, temporary impacts to 

wildlife. For the same reasons discussed above for the Curry Village area, construction actions under 

Alternative 2 at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village would result in local, short-term, minor, adverse impacts 

to wildlife in Segment 2. 

The rerouting of Northside Drive outside the 10-year floodplain at Camp 6 would result in the 

restoration of floodplain and meadow habitats. As discussed under the Impacts of Actions to Protect 

and Enhance River Values section above, this restoration management action would improve 

hydrologic function and restore ecological integrity of the Merced River corridor in Segment 2 and 

associated plant communities. Overall, this action would result in a localized, long-term, moderate, 

beneficial impact on wildlife in Segment 2. 

Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4. Actions under Alternative 2 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 include: the conversion of Yosemite Lodge to a dayuse facility and the addition of 250 parking spaces; redevelopment west of Yosemite Lodge to provide 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 2 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-387

an additional 150 day use parking spaces and area for 15 tour buses; the removal of old and temporary 

housing at Highland Court and the Thousands Cabins; the conversion of Highland Court to a walk-in 

campground; and the relocation of the pedestrian crossing at Northside Drive and Yosemite Lodge 

Drive to alleviate pedestrian/vehicle conflicts. The conversion of Yosemite Lodge to a day-use facility 

and the conversion of Highland Court to a walk-in campground would have a negligible effect on 

wildlife. 

Like other proposed facility projects, construction activities at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 would 

result in direct temporary and permanent losses of wildlife habitats as well as redevelopment of 

existing disturbed areas (table 9-67). Impacts to wildlife habitats would occur entirely in ponderosa 

pine forest. This is a dominant habitat type in Segment 2. Losses would occur through vegetation 

clearing, grading, site development or other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over vegetation). As 

shown in table 9-67, only a small percentage of this vegetation community would be impacted. In 

addition, potentially affected wildlife habitats are adjacent to already developed areas, and therefore 

experience high levels of visitation and human-related impacts. Therefore, losses in habitat, while 

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

TABLE 9-67: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

YOSEMITE LODGE AND CAMP 4 – ALTERNATIVE 2 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Hardwood 0.57 <0.1% 

Ponderosa Pine 14.90 0.8% 

Wet Meadow 0.12 <0.1% 

Redevelopment b 3.69 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Like actions at Curry Village, construction activities would result in short-term, temporary impacts to 

wildlife. For the same reasons discussed above for the Curry Village area, construction-related actions 

under Alternative 2 at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 would result in local, short-term, minor, adverse 

impacts to wildlife in Segment 2. 

In summary, reducing total daily visitor use by approximately 33%, total day visitors by 36%, and total 

overnight visitors by 26% in Yosemite Valley would result in a corresponding reduction in humanrelated impacts on wildlife, especially during the peak season (summer). It is likely that as visitor use is 

reduced and habitat is restored, the range of some species, including birds, amphibians, and mammals in 

particular, may expand into areas as they become more suitable for occupation. As summarized in 

table 9-68, actions to manage visitor use and facilities would result in the loss of approximately 

32.37 acres of wildlife habitat primarily located near previously developed areas, resulting in a longterm, local, minor, adverse impacts to wildlife. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-388 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

TABLE 9-68: SUMMARY OF HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND 

FACILITIES IN SEGMENT 2 – ALTERNATIVE 2 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Hardwood 0.57 <0.1% 

Montane Riparian 1.37 0.4% 

Ponderosa Pine 30.28 1.7% 

Wet Meadow 0.15 <0.1% 

Redevelopmentb 17.21 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Facility removal and new construction actions would also result in local, short-term, adverse impacts 

on fish and wildlife through potential discharges of sediments and other pollutants during removal 

activities, removal of habitats, and disturbances associated with construction activities. Adhering to 

proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable 

(see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce these shortterm impacts to minor and adverse. 

Segment 2 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within Segment 2 under 

Alternative 2 would result in the restoration of approximately 271 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in 

long-term, segmentwide, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to manage visitor use and 

facilities would result in the loss of approximately 32.37 acres of wildlife habitat primarily located near 

previously developed areas, resulting in a long-term, local, minor, adverse impact to wildlife. 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced Gorge and El Portal 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

In addition to the actions common to Alternatives 2–6, the NPS would designate oak protection areas 

in the Odgers’ fuel transfer center and parking lots adjacent to this area, thereby benefiting wildlife 

that use oak woodland habitats. New parking and building construction would be prohibited in the 

oak protection area. The park would also remove nonnative fill, decompact soils, treat invasive plants, 

and plant native understory plant species to restore the area, thereby enhancing riparian and oak 

woodland habitats. Habitat that would be affected by these restoration actions would be in Segment 4, 

as summarized in table 9-69. 

As summarized in table 9-69, approximately 13 acres of riparian, floodplain, and valley oak woodland 

habitat would be restored in Segment 4 under Alternative 2 (this includes restoration actions common 

to Alternatives 2-6), resulting in direct benefits to fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. While 

these actions would result in local, short-term, negligible, adverse impacts on wildlife during 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 2 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-389

TABLE 9-69: ALTERNATIVE 2 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 4

Current WHR Habitat Typea Acres 

Proposed future 

WHR Habitat Typea

Acres (WHR Habitat Type 

Restored/Enhanced)b

Foothill broadleaf woodland 2 Valley oak woodland 2 

Sparsely vegetated 2 

Riparian & floodplain 11 

Lower montane broadleaf 9 

Total 13 Total 13 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow systems), or 

restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, and 2011. 

restoration activities due to increased noise and human presence, in the long term, this action would 

result in local, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife species that depend on oak trees and riparian 

habitat for habitat and food. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities

In Segment 3, Alternative 2 would provide for similar kinds and amounts of visitor use that exists today. 

Thus, no additional beneficial or adverse impacts on wildlife would result from actions to manage visitor 

use and facilities under this alternative. River-related recreational activities, administrative activities, total 

day visitors, and parking/transportation activities would remain largely unchanged from today, and 

impacts on wildlife would be the same as that described for Alternative 1 (No Action). 

In Segment 4, the kinds and amounts of use under Alternative 2 would be similar to today, including 

private boating, day visitors, and pass-through traffic. Visitor use would make up a minority of the use 

in Segment 4, although visitor pass-through traffic would be high during the peak summer season; 

therefore, impacts related to visitor use would be the same as described for Alternative 1. 

Under Alternative 2, user capacity would mostly be affected by the increase in employee housing at 

El Portal. Under Alternative 2, NPS employee housing would be added to the El Portal village center 

and Rancheria Flat; employee parking would be added at these locations to accommodate the increase 

in employee housing. While all new units would be built outside of the 100-year floodplain, they would 

fall within the river corridor. This increase in capacity in El Portal would be a function of the decrease 

in employee housing capacity in Yosemite Valley (Segment 2). As previously discussed in the 

“Environmental Consequences of Actions Common to Alternatives 2–6,” the addition of employee 

housing and park facilities development would increase the total built environment in Segment 4. 

Housing development at El Portal and Rancheria Flat would be expected to result in short-term 

impacts on wildlife from construction activities and human presence; while in the long-term, these 

actions would result in local, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife caused by increased disturbance from 

human presence and removal of habitat. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-390 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Segments 3 and 4 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within Segments 3 

and 4 under Alternative 2 would result in the restoration of 13 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in 

long-term, local, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to manage visitor use and facilities 

would result in short-term, local, minor, adverse impacts to wildlife. 

Segments 5– 8: South Fork Merced River 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

In addition to the impacts described under “Environmental Consequences of Actions Common to 

Alternatives 2–6,” actions specifically targeted to protect culturally sensitive areas would benefit wildlife 

as well, including the relocation or removal of campsites, stock campground sites that are in the 100-year 

floodplain or culturally sensitive areas. Actions to remove or relocate facilities would also result in habitat 

restoration in Segment 7; in particular, the removal of the Wawona Golf Course and the Wawona Hotel 

tennis courts and relocation of some campsites at the Wawona Campgrounds and Wawona stock camp 

would result in additional wet meadow and riparian habitat restoration. Most habitat that would be 

affected by these restoration actions is in Segment 7, as summarized in table 9-70. 

TABLE 9-70: ALTERNATIVE 2 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 7 

Current WHR 

Habitat Typea Acres 

Proposed WHR 

Habitat Typea

Acres (WHR Habitat Type 

Restored/Enhanced )b

Barren 40 Meadow 40 

Lower montane needleleaf 3 

Riparian & floodplain: cottonwood, 

willow, mix of upland deciduous & 

coniferous forest 

3 

Lower montane needleleaf 9 

Riparian: cottonwood, willow, mix 

of upland deciduous & coniferous 

forest 

9 

Total 52 Total 52 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow systems), or 

restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, AND 2011. 

As summarized in table 9-70, approximately 52 acres of riparian, floodplain, and meadow habitats 

would be restored in Segment 7 under Alternative 2 (this includes restoration actions common to 

Alternatives 2-6), resulting in direct benefits to fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. The 

removal of the Wawona Golf Course and Wawona Hotel tennis courts, along with the removal of 

select campsites in the floodplain would result in local, long-term, moderate, beneficial impacts on 

wildlife as meadow and riparian habitat are restored and wildlife are subject to less human presence 

and human-related pressures. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 2 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-391

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Alternative 2 would result in similar kinds and amounts of use that exist today in Segment 5. Due to the 

low amount of visitor and administrative use in Segment 5, the amount, distribution, and integrity of 

wildlife habitat would remain relatively unchanged from current conditions under Alternative 2, and 

impacts would be the same as described for Alternative 1 (No Action). 

Visitor use is not allowed in Segment 6 due to water quality and safety concerns associated with the 

Wawona Impoundment. Visitor use in Segment 8 is very minimal, and river values would continue to 

be protected. Thus, wildlife habitat would remain relatively intact and relatively undisturbed by park 

visitors in Segments 6 and 8, and would be the same under Alternative 2 as described for Alternative 1. 

Within Segment 7, Alternative 2 would provide for reduced kinds and amounts of use compared to 

those that exist today to accommodate for higher levels of river restoration activity. Only private 

boating would be allowed, and boaters would be able to use designated put-in and take-out locations. 

The Wawona Golf Course and tennis courts would be removed to accommodate ecological 

restoration. Overnight capacities would remain unchanged from today for the Wawona Hotel; 

however, the Wawona Campground and Wawona stock camp would experience a reduction or 

relocation in campsites. Removal of campsites and park facilities would result in short-term, adverse 

impacts on fish and wildlife during construction, including noise associated with demolition, removal, 

and restoration activities; ground disturbance; human presence; habitat modification; and potential 

increase in suspended sediments to immediate areas of the Merced River. Adhering to proposed 

mitigation measures presented MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable 

(see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of riparian vegetation, where possible, would reduce these 

short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, the removal of the Wawona Golf Course and 

tennis courts would reduce the built environment and increase the quantity of wildlife habitat in 

Wawona following restoration. Thus, in the long term, implementation of restorative actions following 

facility demolition would restore riparian and meadow habitat, reduce riverbank erosion, and result in 

local, long-term, moderate, beneficial impacts on aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. 

Wawona Campground. Facilities actions at the Wawona Campground would involve removal of 32 

sites that are either within the 100-year floodplain or in culturally sensitive areas. This would reduce 

visitor use in this area, resulting in a decrease of vegetation trampling. Overall, these actions would 

result in a local, long-term, minor, beneficial impact on wildlife in Wawona. 

Segments 5, 6, 7 and 8 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within 

Segments 5, 6, 7 and 8 under Alternative 2 would result in the restoration of 52 acres of wildlife 

habitats, resulting in long-term, segmentwide, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to 

manage visitor use and facilities would result in long-term, local, minor, beneficial impacts to wildlife. 

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

Floodplain Restoration 

Many of the Alternative 2 actions would improve habitat conditions for fish and wildlife. This includes 

actions that are targeted to improve habitat quantity and quality for aquatic, riparian-dependent, and 

meadow-dependent fish and wildlife where these habitats are near or adjacent to existing developments 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-392 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

and high visitor use areas. Additionally, the park would implement measures to enhance the ecological 

complexity of riparian and aquatic habitat in targeted areas, increase channel free flow, improve water 

quality, and reduce erosion and scouring. When combined with restoration actions that are common to 

Alternatives 2–6, up to approximately 347 acres of meadow, riparian, black oak woodland, valley oak 

woodland, coniferous forest, broadleaved forest, and floodplain habitats would be enhanced or restored 

under Alternative 2, thereby benefiting fish and wildlife in the Merced River corridor that use these 

habitat types. Notable actions the park would implement that would directly benefit fish and wildlife 

under Alternative 2 include the following: 

 Remove facilities within the 100-year floodplain of the Merced River and restore riverbanks, 

meadows, and riparian habitat. 

 Place restrictions on recreational access points to rivers and riverbanks to reduce riverbank 

erosion. 

 Remove, restore, relocate, or repurpose park facilities to efficiently use park facilities and 

reduce the built environment in the park; some facilities would be built to accommodate 

visitors or employees. 

 Manage total visitors to the park and visitor demands for day parking space, lodging, and 

camping space. 

 Enhance meadow, riparian, and river hydrologic function, complexity, and connectivity. 

 Improve the free flow, complexity, and water quality of the Merced River. 

Actions to manage visitor use and facilities would result in the loss of 32.37 acres of wildlife habitats 

under Alternative 2. Potential adverse effects from these actions would primarily be associated with 

the active construction or restoration phase and would be local, short term, and minor or negligible. 

When combined, the long-term effect of all of these measures would be a moderate, beneficial impact 

on wildlife and fish resources as habitats are restored and fragmentation and radiating impacts are 

reduced. These effects would be most pronounced in areas of high human use such as Yosemite Valley 

and Wawona (Segments 2 and 7, respectively). 

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

Floodplain Restoration 

Cumulative impacts on wildlife discussed herein are based on analysis of past, present, and reasonably 

foreseeable actions in the Yosemite region in combination with Alternative 2 actions. The past, 

present, and reasonably foreseeable actions used for this evaluation are the same projects listed for 

Alternative 1 (No action); a descriptions of past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future projects and 

plans is summarized in Appendix B. Like those actions described for Alternatives 2–6, the actions with 

Alternative 2 under the Merced River Plan would generally contribute to beneficial impacts on fish 

and wildlife associated with the Merced River corridor over the long term. These actions are focused 

on restoring and improving aquatic, meadow, and riparian habitat quality within the Merced River 

corridor; therefore, fish and wildlife species that are associated with these habitat types are most likely 

to be affected cumulatively by actions proposed under Alternative 2. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 2 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-393

Past actions have degraded and reduced the abundance and quantity of aquatic, meadow, and riparian 

habitats in the region. These past actions, especially at lower elevations from development and resource 

extraction, have resulted in changed fish and wildlife movement patterns over time as they seek areas 

with more suitable habitat conditions. Present and reasonably foreseeable future actions also have the 

potential to further reduce the extent or quality of these habitat types; however, potential effects to these 

habitat types are generally mitigated and/or compensated through habitat preservation and/or 

enhancement at an off-site location (including mitigation banks). These actions provide the most benefit 

when coordinated with larger, regional conservation strategies that protect intact corridors or provide 

links to other areas of suitable habitat. Because the actions proposed for Alternative 2 would further 

increase the habitat value of the Merced River corridor, it would contribute towards a long-term, 

cumulative, beneficial effect on fish and wildlife and may, in some cases, reverse local population declines 

for some species. Songbirds, reptiles, and amphibians in particular would benefit cumulatively from 

Alternative 2 because the quantity of preferred habitat (meadows and riparian) would see a net increase. 

Environmental Consequences of Alternative 3: Dispersed Visitor Experiences and 

Extensive Riverbank Restoration 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternatives 3, preliminary grazing capacities for the Merced Lake East Meadow would be 

developed. When the meadow recovers, administrative grazing at established capacities would be 

allowed. The meadow would be monitored annually for five years, and use levels would be adapted as 

needed. This adaptive management of grazing in the meadow would help protect meadow vegetation 

from the effects of high levels of grazing by reducing the level of vegetation trampling by 

administrative pack stock and reducing the dispersal of manure and roll pits, and would benefit habitat 

connectivity and meadow hydrology. These actions would result in long-term, local, minor beneficial 

impacts to fish and wildlife. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Like Alternative 2, Alternative 3 would reduce the amount of infrastructure and visitor use in 

Segment 1. While many of these actions would be similar to those described for Alternative 2, residual 

use (and correspondingly, human presence) would be higher with Alternative 3 than Alternative 2 but 

lower than current conditions. The Merced Lake High Sierra Camp would also be converted to a 

temporary outfitter camp to accommodate 15 people per night. Instead of dispersed camping, 

designated camping at Little Yosemite Valley would be reduced and the Merced Lake Backpackers 

Campground would be expanded into a portion of the former High Sierra Camping Area. Moraine 

Dome Camping Area would remain. Overall, wilderness zone capacities would be reduced from 150 to 

75. These actions would have a local, minor, beneficial impact on wildlife over the long term as impacts 

related to visitor use are reduced, as described for Alternative 2. 

Construction activities related to the removal of existing improvements with Alternative 3 would result 

in local, short-term, adverse impacts on wildlife, including noise related to removal of infrastructure 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-394 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

and human presence. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures presented MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, 

where possible, would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, over the long 

term, these actions would improve habitat quality and quantity, thus resulting in local, minor, 

beneficial impacts in wildlife. 

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp. The actions in the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp area proposed 

under Alternative 3 involve the conversion of the area to designated Wilderness, removal of all 

infrastructure from the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp, and use of the former camp area as a temporary 

stock camp, resulting in approximately 11 acres of meadow and subalpine restoration in these areas. As 

discussed for Alternative 2, these actions would result in a local, long-term, minor, beneficial impact on 

wildlife in Segment 1 by reducing stresses on wildlife from concentrated visitor use. 

Segment 1 Impact Summary: Actions to manage visitor use and facilities within Segment 1 under 

Alternative 3 would have local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife. 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Like Alternative 2, Alternative 3 would restore meadow, riparian and floodplain habitats and enhance 

the free flowing condition of the Merced River through the removal or relocation of infrastructure 

that constrict the natural channel migration. Alternative 3 would also improve water quality by 

relocating parking lots, rerouting roads, removing fill material, removing pack stock trails and 

associated Curry Village stables outside of the floodplain, and restoring meadow and floodplain 

ecosystems. The types of habitat that would be affected by these restoration actions in Segment 2, as 

well as the types of habitat that would be enhanced or restored, are summarized in table 9-71. 

As summarized in table 9-71, a total of 230 acres of meadow, riparian, black oak woodland, coniferous 

forest, broadleaved forest, and floodplain habitats would be restored in Segment 2 under Alternative 3 

(this includes restoration actions common to Alternatives 2-6), resulting in direct benefits on fish and 

wildlife that use these habitat types. Wildlife species inhabiting wetlands, riparian habitat, and riverine 

ecosystems would benefit the most from actions that remove overnight facilities and associated 

infrastructure (riprap, asphalt pads, trails) within a 150-foot buffer of the river, including selective 

campgrounds in Yosemite Valley, the former Upper and Lower Pines campgrounds, Housekeeping 

Camp, and the removal of four buildings at Yosemite Lodge. Restoration of these areas would prevent 

further riverbank erosion, provide hydrologic connectivity for meadows and riparian habitats, reduce 

vegetation trampling, enhance the hydrologic function within the 2-year to 10-year floodplains, 

enhance water quality, increase the amount of wildlife habitat, increase productivity in riparian and 

aquatic ecosystems, and reduce human presence and human-related impacts. These actions would 

have segmentwide, long-term, moderate, beneficial effects on aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. 

Restoration actions and effects on wildlife associated with the removal of Ahwahnee, Sugar Pine, and 

Stoneman bridges, restoration of Ahwahnee Meadow, Stoneman Meadow and Curry Orchard parking 

lot, Housekeeping Camp, El Capitan moraine, restoration of the area formerly occupied by the 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 3 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-395

TABLE 9-71: ALTERNATIVE 3 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 2 

Current WHR 

Habitat Typea Acres 

Proposed Future WHR 

Habitat Typea

Acres (WHR Habitat Type 

Restored/Enhanced)b

Barren 2 

Meadow 17 Meadow 21 

Sparsely vegetated 2 

Lower montane broadleaf 16 Lower montane broadleaf 16 

Lower montane needleleaf 68 

A mosaic of meadow, black oak, 

and open canopy coniferous 

forest 

68 

Barren 7 Riparian & floodplain: 

cottonwood, willow, mix of 

upland deciduous & coniferous 

forest 

Lower montane broadleaf 1 105 

Lower montane needleleaf 97 

Lower montane needleleaf 20 

Riparian: cottonwood, willow, 

mix of upland deciduous & 

coniferous forest 

20 

Total 230 Total 230 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow systems), or 

restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, AND 2011. 

Upper River and Lower River campgrounds, and rerouting of Valley Loop Trail would be the same as 

described for Alternative 2. While somewhat less habitat would be restored overall by Alternative 3 

when compared to Alternative 2, these actions would nonetheless improve the quality and quantity of 

meadow and riparian habitats, thereby having a long-term, beneficial effect on the wildlife that use 

these habitat types when compared to Alternative 1 (No Action). 

Species that use meadow, riparian, and riverine habitats would benefit the most from these actions, 

including mammals such as mule deer and black bear, reptiles such as garter snake, amphibians such as 

Pacific chorus frog, and many bird species such as songbirds and raptors. Additionally, these actions 

would have a long-term, moderate, beneficial impact on fish as riparian habitat establishes and the free 

flowing condition of the river is enhanced in Segment 2. 

Short-term, local, minor, and adverse impacts associated with restorative actions under Alternative 2 

may include noise associated with restoration activities, human presence, and modification of habitat 

as a result of bridge removal and revegetation. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, 

MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1, and MM-WL-2, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of 

vegetation where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, 

these adverse impacts are expected to only last for the duration of the restoration activity (bridge 

removal and habitat restoration) and over the long term, these restoration actions would have 

moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife in Segment 2. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-396 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Under Alternative 3, the NPS would implement measures to restore and protect meadow and wetland 

habitat while providing adequate access to visitors, including specific measures to restore El Capitan 

Meadow. These actions would collectively improve meadow and wetland habitat integrity, increase 

the extent of meadows, and enhance contiguity of meadow habitats as well as hydrological 

connectivity between meadow, riparian, and floodplain habitats. 

As discussed for other alternatives, these restoration actions would result in local, short-term, minor, 

adverse impacts on wildlife during the construction phase. Potential minor, adverse impacts include 

noise related to restoration/removal activities, human presence, and removal of vegetation or alteration 

of habitat that is in or immediately adjacent to affected areas. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures 

MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding 

the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

However, implementation of these measures would enhance meadow and riparian habitat quality by 

reducing fragmentation, soil compaction, vegetation trampling, erosion, and hydrological disconnection 

and enhancing channel free flow and increase channel complexity. Thus, when combined, the actions 

would result in segmentwide, long-term, moderate, beneficial impact on wildlife that use riparian and 

wetland habitats, as habitat quality, quantity, and integrity are substantially improved and habitat 

disturbance is substantially decreased in Segment 2. 

Biological Resource Actions. 

Yosemite Valley Campgrounds: Under Alternative 3, specific restoration actions to enhance the 

river’s biological values in Segment 2 include removing all campsites within 150 feet of the bed and 

banks of the Merced River and restoring 12 acres of floodplain/riparian habitat, and designating river 

access at the North Pines Campground. Restoration of riparian habitat throughout Yosemite Valley 

would result in segment-wide, long-term, moderate, and beneficial impacts to fish and wildlife. 

El Capitan Meadow: In addition to actions common to Alternatives 2-6, the NPS would use 

restoration fencing and signing to designate appropriate meadow access points, remove all informal 

trails in sensitive and frequently inundated areas and in areas that trails incise meadow and promote 

habitat fragmentation. Restoration of El Capitan Meadow and rerouting or removal of informal trails 

would result in local, long-term, minor to moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife from reduction 

of trampling from foot traffic that causes habitat fragmentation. 

Ahwahnee Meadow: Similar to Alternative 2, specific actions under Alternative 3 in Segment 2 to 

enhance the river’s biological values at the Ahwahnee Meadow include: rerouting or removing trails 

which traverse wetlands in the Ahwahnee meadow and consolidating trail use with the Housekeeping 

Footbridge trail where possible, removing 900 feet of Northside Drive and relocating the bike path to 

the south of Ahwahnee Meadow, and restoring meadow contours and native vegetation. Meadow 

restoration, trail rerouting and removal, and removal of a portion of Northside Drive would result in 

local, long-term, moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife at the Ahwahnee Meadow as wetland 

fragmentation and vegetation trampling is reduced, and wetland connectivity to the river is enhanced. 

Stoneman Meadow: Like Alternative 2, under Alternative 3 the park would restore Stoneman 

Meadow by removing 1,335 feet of Southside Drive and re-aligning the road through Boystown area. 

The Orchard Parking Lot would be redesigned and engineering solutions would be applied to promote 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 3 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-397

water flow and improve meadow health to increase drainage from the cliff walls to Stoneman 

Meadow. The meadow boardwalk would be extended through wet areas to Curry Village (up to 

275 feet). Restoration of Stoneman Meadow and protection of sensitive wetland habitat would result 

in local, long-term, minor to moderate, and beneficial impacts on meadow wildlife. 

Former Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds: Specific actions to enhance biological values of the 

Merced River at the Former Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds in Alternative 3 are similar to 

Alternative 2, which include restoring 30 acres of the 10-year floodplain. Restoration of the Former 

Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds would result in local, long-term, moderate, and beneficial 

impacts on wildlife inhabiting riparian and riverine habitats, including mammals such as mule deer and 

black bear, reptiles such as garter snake, amphibians such as Pacific chorus frog, and many bird species 

such as songbirds and raptors. 

Short-term, adverse impacts associated with restorative actions at the Yosemite Valley campgrounds, 

El Capitan, Ahwahnee, and Stoneman meadows, and at the Former Upper and Lower Rivers 

Campgrounds under Alternative 3 may include noise associated with restoration activities, human 

presence, and modification of habitat as a result of rerouting or formalizing trails, removal of campsites 

and fill, and revegetation. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation 

where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, these adverse 

impacts are expected to only last for the duration of the restoration activity (campsite removal and 

habitat restoration) and over the long term, these restoration actions would have moderate, beneficial 

impacts on wildlife in Segment 2. 

Hydrologic/Geologic Resource Actions. Specific restoration actions associated with hydrologic/ 

geologic resources in Segment 2 under Alternative 3 is the same as Alternative 2, which include moving 

unimproved parking areas out of sensitive floodplain habitat at Camp 6, and removing the Stoneman, 

Ahwahnee, and Sugar Pine Bridges to enhance the free-flowing condition of the Merced River. 

Additionally, fill material would be removed and meadow and floodplain habitats would be restored. 

Southside Drive would be converted to a two-way road and the Sentinel intersection would be 

redesigned. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Alternative 3 would substantially reduce the maximum daily visitation allowed in Segment 2 from 

current levels to allow for increased resource restoration and reduce crowding and congestion. Under 

Alternative 3, recreational activities would be reduced to allow for increased restoration along the river 

corridor. Beneficial effects on wildlife associated with reduced visitor use with this alternative would 

be similar to that described for Alternative 2. 

Similarly to Alternative 2, employee temporary housing at Curry Village would be removed and 

permanent housing would be constructed under Alternative 3. Temporary housing at the Lost Arrow 

parking lot would be replaced by parking spaces. Camping opportunities would be reduced under 

Alternative 3 in Segment 2 when compared to current levels, from 477 sites to 466 sites. Reduction or 

removal in camping and lodging accommodations would occur at Lower and North Pines 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-398 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

campgrounds, Curry Village, Yosemite Lodge, Backpackers Campground (remove 25 sites and partially 

replace 16 sites outside of the 100-year floodplain), and Housekeeping Camp. Additional camping 

opportunities would be expanded at the Upper Pines Campground (recreational vehicle [RV] area), 

west of Backpackers Campground, and new sites near Camp 4 (Sunnyside Campground). These 

additional camping opportunities would have a negligible effect on wildlife because the campsites 

would be located in less sensitive habitats than those sites being removed. However, the removal of 

campgrounds at Backpackers Campground, North Pines Campground, and Lower Pines Campground 

would reduce human presence and human-related impacts on wildlife within the Merced River 

corridor, resulting in segmentwide, long-term, moderate, beneficial effects. 

Day parking would be reduced from current supply. This reduction would be most prominent at 

Camp 6, Curry Orchard, and many formal and informal roadside parking areas. To compensate for the 

loss of parking, new parking spaces would be added to the west of the current Yosemite Lodge parking 

lot. These actions would occur in existing disturbed areas and would not result in adverse effects on 

wildlife. Over the long term, the removal of both formal and informal parking areas would have local, 

minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife. 

Curry Village & Campgrounds. Actions under Alternative 3 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Curry Village include the reorganization of Curry Village and the rerouting of South 

Side Drive at Boys Town. Construction activities at Curry Village would result in direct temporary and 

permanent losses of wildlife habitats as well as the redevelopment of existing developed areas 

(table 9-72). Outside of previously developed areas, impacts to wildlife habitats would primarily occur in 

ponderosa pine forest and, to a much lesser extent, wet meadow. Ponderosa pine forest is one of the 

dominant wildlife habitats in Segment 2. Losses would occur through vegetation clearing, grading, site 

development or other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over vegetation). As shown in table 9-72 below, 

only a small percentage of the affected wildlife habitats would be affected by the facility actions at Curry 

Village. Impacts to wet meadow habitat would occur in a small meadow area currently disconnected 

from the larger Stoneman Meadow to the north by Happy Isle Loop Road. In addition, wildlife habitats 

at Curry Village are adjacent to already developed areas, and therefore currently experience high levels 

of visitation and human-related impacts such as vegetation trampling and soil compaction. Therefore, 

losses in habitat, while long-term, would be local, adverse and minor. 

TABLE 9-72: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

CURRY VILLAGE & CAMPGROUNDS – ALTERNATIVE 3 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Ponderosa Pine 6.35 0.4% 

Wet Meadow 0.03 <0.1% 

Redevelopmentb 1.97 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 3 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-399

Effects related to construction activities, including potential displacement of individuals due to noise 

and human presence, as well as the potential for direct mortalities, would be similar to that described 

for Alternative 2. However, these adverse impacts are expected to only last for the duration of 

construction activities. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures presented MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, 

where possible, would reduce these localized, short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. Actions under Alternative 3 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village include measures to formalize and relocate parking 

facilities and Northside Drive outside the 10-year floodplain. The Camp 6/Village Center Parking Area 

would be formalized to include 550 designated parking spaces by redeveloping part of the current 

administrative footprint. 100 parking spaces would be added at Yosemite Village. Northside Drive 

would be rerouted south of the parking areas and north of the 10-year floodplain. Fill material would 

be removed from the floodplain and the area would be restored to meadow and floodplain 

ecosystems. 

As noted in table 9-73, over half of the area affected by the above actions would occur at sites that are 

already developed. Outside of those sites, the actions at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village would result in 

direct temporary and permanent losses of montane riparian and ponderosa pine forest habitat types. 

Losses to these habitat types would occur through vegetation clearing, grading, site development or 

other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over vegetation). As shown in table 9-73, only a small 

percentage of these wildlife habitats would be impacted by the actions at Camp 6 and Yosemite 

Village. The potentially affected wildlife habitats are adjacent to already developed areas, and 

therefore experience high levels of visitation and human-related impacts. Therefore, losses in habitat, 

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

Like actions at Curry Village, construction activities would result in short-term, temporary impacts to 

wildlife. For the same reasons discussed above for the Curry Village area, construction activities under 

Alternative 3 at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village would result in local, short-term, minor, adverse impacts 

to wildlife in Segment 2. 

TABLE 9-73: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

CAMP 6 AND YOSEMITE VILLAGE – ALTERNATIVE 3 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Riparian 1.37 0.4% 

Ponderosa Pine 9.03 0.5% 

Redevelopmentb 11.55 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-400 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

The rerouting of Northside Drive outside the 10-year floodplain would result in the restoration of 

floodplain and meadow habitats. As discussed under the Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance 

River Values section above, this restoration management action would improve hydrologic function 

and restore ecological integrity of the Merced River corridor in Segment 2 and associated plant 

communities. Overall, this action would result in a localized, long-term, moderate, beneficial impact on 

wildlife in Segment 2. 

Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4. Actions under Alternative 3 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 include: the removal of old and temporary housing at 

Highland Court and the Thousands Cabins; the construction of two new concessioner housing areas 

and the construction of 78 employee parking spaces; redevelopment west of Yosemite Lodge to 

provide an additional 150 day use parking spaces and area for 15 tour buses; relocation of existing tour 

bus drop off area to Highland Court to provide 3 bus loading/unloading spaces; and the relocation of 

the pedestrian crossing at Northside Drive and Yosemite Lodge Drive to alleviate pedestrian/vehicle 

conflicts. 

Like other proposed facility projects, construction activities at Yosemite Lodge would result in direct 

temporary and permanent losses of wildlife habitats along with redevelopment of existing disturbed 

areas (table 9-74). Impacts to wildlife habitats would occur entirely in ponderosa pine forest, one of 

the dominant wildlife habitats in Segment 2. Losses would occur through vegetation clearing, grading, 

site development or other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over vegetation). As shown in table 9-74, 

only a small percentage of this habitat would be impacted. In addition, potentially affected habitat is 

adjacent to already developed areas, and therefore experience high levels of visitation and humanrelated impacts such as vegetation trampling and soil compaction. Therefore, losses in habitat, while 

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

TABLE 9-74: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

YOSEMITE LODGE AND CAMP 4 – ALTERNATIVE 3 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Hardwood 0.08 <0.1% 

Ponderosa Pine 14.80 0.8% 

Redevelopmentb 3.69 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Like actions at Curry Village, construction activities would result in short-term, temporary impacts to 

wildlife. For the same reasons discussed above for the Curry Village area, construction-related actions 

under Alternative 3 at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 would result in local, short-term, minor, adverse 

impacts to wildlife in Segment 2. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 3 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-401

In summary, as shown in table 9-75, actions to manage visitor use and facilities would result in the loss 

of 31.66 acres of wildlife habitats primarily located near previously developed areas, resulting in longterm, local, minor, adverse impacts wildlife. 

TABLE 9-75: SUMMARY OF HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND 

FACILITIES – ALTERNATIVE 3 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Hardwood 0.08 <0.1% 

Montane Riparian 1.37 0.4% 

Ponderosa Pine 30.18 1.7% 

Wet Meadow 0.03 <0.1% 

Redevelopmentb 17.21 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Alternative 3 would also result in a net 37% reduction in total daily visitor use (also a reduction of 43% 

in total day visitors and 23% total overnight visitors) when compared to current levels, resulting in 

long-term benefits to wildlife and their habitat. As described for Alternative 2, this reduction in visitor 

use would significantly reduce human-related impacts on wildlife and their associated habitats 

throughout the Valley. Actions to significantly reduce overnight capacities would effectively reduce 

the built environment and human presence in the Valley. Restoration of habitat after removal of 

facilities and parking lots would increase the extent and contiguity of habitat for wildlife; limiting day 

use activities and roadside parking would reduce impacts on sensitive habitats such as riparian 

woodland and wet meadows; and reduction in overnight capacities would reduce human pressures on 

wildlife in general. Facility removal and new construction actions would result in local, short-term, 

adverse impacts on fish and wildlife through potential discharges of sediments and other pollutants 

during removal activities, removal of habitats, and disturbances associated with construction activities. 

Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as 

applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce 

these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Segment 2 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within Segment 2 under 

Alternative 2 would result in the restoration of 230 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in long-term, 

segmentwide, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to manage visitor use and facilities 

would result in the loss of 31.66 acres of wildlife habitats primarily located near previously developed 

areas, resulting in long-term, local, minor, adverse impacts wildlife. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-402 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Segments 3 and 4: Merced Gorge and El Portal 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 3, the NPS would designate oak protection areas in the Odgers’ fuel transfer center 

and parking lots adjacent to the fuel transfer center. The amount of Valley Oak Woodland habitat 

restored in Segment 4 would be slightly less under Alternative 3 compared to Alternative 2, but otherwise 

the total amount of habitat restored would be similar. New parking and building construction would be 

prohibited within the oak protection area. In the existing parking lot at the fuel transfer center, no 

parking would be allowed within 10 feet of the base of the oak tree. The park would also remove 

nonnative fill, decompact soils, treat invasive plants, and plant native understory plant species to restore 

the area. Habitat that would be affected by these restoration actions would occur in Segment 4, as 

summarized in table 9-76. 

TABLE 9-76: ALTERNATIVE 3 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 4

Current WHR 

Habitat Typea Acres 

Proposed Future WHR 

Habitat Typea

Acres (WHR Habitat Type 

Restored/Enhanced)b

Foothill broadleaf woodland 1 Valley oak woodland 1 

Sparsely vegetated 2 Riparian & floodplain: cottonwood, 

willow, mix of upland deciduous & 

coniferous forest 

12 

Lower montane broadleaf 10 

Total 13 Total 13 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow systems), or 

restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, AND 2011. 

As summarized in table 9-76, approximately 13 acres of riparian, floodplain, and valley oak woodland 

habitats would be restored in Segment 4 under Alternative 3 (this includes restoration actions common 

to Alternatives 2-6), resulting in direct benefits to fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. This 

action would result in local, short-term, negligible, adverse impacts on wildlife during restoration 

activities due to increased noise and human presence. In the long term, this action would result in 

local, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife species that depend on oak trees for food and cover. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities

Impacts related to wildlife in Segment 3 under Alternative 3 would be the same as described for 

Alternative 2. In Segment 4, user capacity would be mostly affected by the increase in employee 

housing in El Portal and Rancheria Flat. While all new units would be built outside of the 100-year 

floodplain, they would fall within the Merced River corridor. This increase in housing capacity in 

El Portal is a function of the decrease in employee housing capacity in Yosemite Valley (Segment 2). As 

previously discussed under “Environmental Consequences of Actions Common to Alternatives 2–6,” 

the addition of employee housing and park facilities development would increase the total built 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 3 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-403

environment in Segment 4. Housing development at El Portal and Rancheria Flat would be expected 

to result in short-term, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife from construction activities and human 

presence. In the long term, these actions would result in local, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife from 

the increased disturbance from human presence. 

Segments 3 and 4 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within Segments 3 

and 4 under Alternative 2 would result in the restoration of 13 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in 

long-term, local, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to manage visitor use and facilities 

would result in short-term, local, minor, adverse impacts to wildlife. 

Segments 5– 8: South Fork Merced River 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

In addition to the impacts described above under “Environmental Consequences of Actions Common to 

Alternatives 2–6,” actions specifically targeted to protect culturally sensitive areas and water quality of 

the South Fork Merced River would benefit wildlife as well, including the relocation or removal of 

campsites and stock campground sites that are within the 100-year floodplain or culturally sensitive 

areas. Under Alternative 3, the removal of facilities within the floodplain to accommodate habitat 

restoration would also result in beneficial effects on wildlife. Habitat that would be affected by these 

restoration actions on the South Fork Merced River would occur in Segment 7, as summarized in 

Table 9-77. 

TABLE 9-77: ALTERNATIVE 3 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 7 

Current WHR 

Habitat Typea Acres 

Proposed Future WHR 

Habitat Typea

Acres (WHR Habitat Type 

Restored/Enhanced)b

Barren 40 

Meadow 

41 

Lower montane needleleaf 1 

Lower montane needleleaf 7 

Riparian: cottonwood, willow, 

mix of upland deciduous & 

coniferous forest 

7 

Total 48 Total 48 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow systems), or 

restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, AND 2011. 

As summarized in table 9-77, a total of approximately 48 acres of riparian and meadow habitats would 

be restored in Segment 7 under Alternative 3 (this includes restoration actions common to 

Alternatives 2-6), resulting in direct benefits on fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. The 

removal of select campsites within the floodplain as well as the Wawona Golf Course and tennis courts 

would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife as riparian habitat is restored 

and wildlife are subject to less human presence and human-related pressures. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-404 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities

Like Alternative 2, Alternative 3 would provide for similar kinds and amounts of use that exist today in 

Segment 5. Due to the low amount of visitor and administrative use in Segment 5, wildlife habitat 

would remain relatively intact and undisturbed. The amount, distribution, and integrity of wildlife 

habitat would remain relatively unchanged from current conditions. 

As described previously under Alternative 2, visitor use is not allowed in Segment 6 because of water 

quality and safety concerns associated with the Wawona Impoundment. Visitor use in Segment 8 is 

very minimal, and river values would continue to be protected under Alternative 3. Thus, wildlife 

habitat would remain relatively intact and relatively undisturbed by park visitors in Segments 6 and 8. 

Under Alternative 3, Segment 7 would provide for reduced kinds and amounts of use compared to 

uses today to accommodate for higher levels of river restoration activity. The Wawona Golf Course 

and Store would be removed to accommodate ecological restoration; however, the sprayfield would 

remain. The tennis courts would be removed and commercial day rides would be discontinued; the 

stables in Wawona would be repurposed for another use. Overnight capacities would be reduced at the 

Wawona Campground, and two campsites at the Wawona stock camp would be relocated to the 

Wawona stables. Removal of commercial day rides would help to reduce the presence of parasitic bird 

species, reduce vegetation trampling and soil compaction, and allow for habitat restoration, thereby 

also benefiting wildlife in the long term. Actions to remove overnight accommodations and other park 

facilities would result in short-term, adverse impacts on aquatic and terrestrial wildlife during the 

construction phase, including noise associated with demolition, removal, and restoration activities; 

ground disturbance; human presence; habitat modification; and potential increase in suspended 

sediments to the South Fork Merced River in the vicinity of these actions. Adhering to proposed 

mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see 

Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of riparian vegetation, where possible, would reduce these 

short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, as described above, these actions would restore 

riparian habitat, reduce riverbank erosion, reduce the built environment, and reduce human presence 

and human-related pressures on wildlife. Thus, actions to manage visitor use and facilities in 

Segment 7 would result in local, long-term, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife. 

Wawona Campground. Facilities actions at the Wawona Campground would involve removal of 27 

sites that are either within the 100-year floodplain or in culturally sensitive areas. This would reduce 

visitor use in this area, resulting in a decrease of vegetation trampling. Overall, these actions would 

result in a local, long-term, minor, beneficial impact on wildlife in Wawona. 

Segments 5, 6, 7 and 8 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within 

Segments 5, 6, 7 and 8 under Alternative 3 would result in the restoration of 48 acres of wildlife 

habitats, resulting in long-term, segmentwide, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to 

manage visitor use and facilities would result in long-term, local, minor, beneficial impacts to wildlife. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 3 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-405

Summary of Impacts from Alternative 3: Dispersed Visitor Experiences and Extensive 

Riverbank Restoration 

Many of the actions proposed under Alternative 3 would restore aquatic and terrestrial habitats, thereby 

resulting in beneficial effects on fish and wildlife. This includes actions that are targeted to improve 

habitat quality for aquatic, riparian- and meadow-dependent fish and wildlife where these habitats are 

near or adjacent to existing developments and high visitor use areas. Additionally, the park would 

implement measures to enhance the ecological complexity of riparian and aquatic habitat in targeted 

areas, increase channel free flow, improve water quality, and reduce erosion and scouring. When 

combined with those restoration actions that are common to Alternatives 2–6, up to approximately 

302 acres of meadow, riparian, black oak woodland, valley oak woodland, coniferous forest, broadleaved 

forest, and floodplain habitats would be enhanced or restored under Alternative 3, thereby benefiting 

fish and wildlife in the Merced River corridor that use these habitat types. Notable actions the park 

would implement that would directly benefit fish and wildlife under Alternative 3 include the following: 

 Remove facilities within 150 feet of the ordinary high water mark of the Merced River and 

restore riverbanks, meadows, and riparian habitat. 

 Redirect recreational use of rivers and riverbanks to reduce riverbank erosion. 

 Remove, restore, relocate, or repurpose park facilities to efficiently use park facilities and 

reduce the built environment in the park; some facilities would be built to accommodate 

visitors or employees. 

 Manage total visitors to the park and visitor demands for day parking space, lodging, and 

camping space. 

 Enhance meadow, riparian, and river hydrologic function, complexity, and connectivity. 

 Improve the free flow, complexity, and water quality of the Merced River. 

Actions to manage visitor use and facilities would result in the loss of 31.66 acres of wildlife habitats 

under Alternative 3. Potential adverse effects from these actions would be associated with the active 

construction or restoration phase, and would be local, short-term, and minor or negligible. When 

combined, the long-term effect of all of these measures would be a moderate, beneficial impact on 

wildlife and fish resources as habitats are restored and fragmentation and radiating impacts are reduced. 

Like Alternative 2, these effects would be most pronounced in areas of high human use such as Yosemite 

Valley and Wawona (Segments 2 and 7, respectively). Overall, while slightly less restoration is proposed 

under Alternative 3 than Alternative 2, it would have similar benefits when compared to Alternative 1 

(No Action), especially related to human presence, as use levels would be even further reduced. 

Cumulative Impacts from Alternative 3: Dispersed Visitor Experiences and Extensive 

Riverbank Restoration 

The past, present, and reasonably foreseeable actions used for this evaluation are the same projects listed 

for Alternative 1 (No Action); a descriptions of past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future projects 

and plans is summarized in Appendix B. Like Alternative 2, the actions proposed under Alternative 3 

would generally contribute to beneficial impacts on fish and wildlife associated with the Merced River 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-406 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

corridor over the long term. These actions are focused on restoring and improving aquatic, meadow, and 

riparian habitat quality within the Merced River corridor; therefore, fish and wildlife species that are 

associated with these habitat types are most likely to be affected beneficially by the proposed actions. 

In general, past actions have degraded and reduced the abundance and quantity of aquatic, meadow, and 

riparian habitats in the region. These past actions, especially at lower elevations caused by development 

and resource extraction, have resulted in changed movement patterns of fish and wildlife over time as 

they seek areas with more suitable habitat conditions. Present and reasonably foreseeable future actions 

also have the potential to further reduce or degrade these habitat types. Because the actions proposed for 

Alternative 3 would further increase the habitat value of the Merced River corridor, this alternative 

would contribute toward a long-term, cumulative, beneficial effect on fish and wildlife and may, in some 

cases, offset or reverse local population declines for some species. Songbirds, reptiles, and amphibians in 

particular would benefit cumulatively from Alternative 3 because there would be a net increase in 

quantity of preferred habitat (meadows and riparian) compared to existing amounts. 

Environmental Consequences of Alternative 4: Resource-Based Visitor Experiences 

and Targeted Riverbank Restoration 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 4, grazing would be eliminated and administrative pack stock would be required to 

carry pellet feed in Merced Lake East Meadow, as described for Alternatives 2. Beneficial effects to 

fish and wildlife would be the same as described for Alternative 2. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Alternative 4 would reduce the amount of infrastructure in Segment 1 of the Merced River corridor 

through the removal of the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp and associated infrastructure. This High 

Sierra Camp area would be restored to natural conditions and be designated wilderness. Some 

dispersed camping from the Merced Lake Backpackers Camp would be expanded into the former 

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp, and wilderness zone capacities would be reduced from 150 to 100. 

Designated camping areas in Little Yosemite Valley would be reduced and Moraine Dome would be 

continued along with the existing wilderness trailhead quota system. These actions would have local, 

short-term, minor, adverse impacts during the construction phase, and local, long-term, minor, 

beneficial impacts on wildlife if implemented. Adhering to mitigation measures provided MM-HYD-1, 

MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1, and MM-WL-2, as applicable (see Appendix C), would ensure impacts 

related to construction would be minor and adverse. 

Total daily use levels in Segment 1 under Alternative 4 are estimated at 295 overnight users (mostly 

concentrated at Little Yosemite Valley and Washburn Lake) and approximately 450 day visitors. 

Compared To Alternative 1 (No Action), in which daily use levels are estimated at 380 overnight users 

and approximately 450 day visitors, Alternative 4 would significantly reduce the number of overnight 

users by 85 users, or approximately 22%. The reduction in overnight facilities and overnight visitors 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 4 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-407

represents a reduction in human presence, human-related pressures on wildlife, and reduced future 

impacts on wildlife habitat in Segment 1. Collectively, actions to manage visitor use and facilities under 

Alternative 4 would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife in Segment 1. 

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp. The actions in the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp area proposed 

under Alternative 4 involve the conversion of the area to designated Wilderness, the closure of the 

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp, and restoration of the former camp area to natural conditions, 

including approximately 11 acres of meadow and subalpine restoration in these areas. Construction 

activities associated with the demolition and removal of the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp would 

result in short-term, local, adverse impacts on wildlife related to noise, potential for sediment discharge 

from disturbed soils, and human presence. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, 

MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of 

vegetation, where possible, would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. Once 

completed, these actions would result in a local, long-term, minor, beneficial impact on wildlife in 

Segment 1by reducing stresses on wildlife from concentrated human use. 

Segment 1 Impact Summary: Actions to manage visitor use and facilities within Segment 1 under 

Alternative 4 would have local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife. 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Actions proposed under Alternative 4 that would benefit fish and wildlife in the long term include the 

removal of the Sugar Pine and Ahwahnee bridges, relocating the Camp 6 parking lot away from the 

ordinary high-water mark, removing pack stock trails and associated Curry Village stables, and restoring 

meadow and floodplain ecosystems. While the overall amount of habitat with Alternative 4 that would be 

restored in Segment 2 would be less than that proposed under Alternatives 2 and 3, it would still be 

substantial. The types of habitat that would be affected by restoration actions are summarized in 

table 9-78. 

As summarized in table 9-78, approximately 194 acres of meadow, riparian, black oak woodland, 

coniferous forest, broadleaved forest, and floodplain habitats would be restored in Segment 2 under 

Alternative 4 (this includes restoration actions common to Alternatives 2-6), resulting in direct benefits 

on fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. Wildlife species inhabiting wetlands, riparian habitat, 

and riverine ecosystems would benefit from actions that remove overnight facilities and associated 

infrastructure (riprap, asphalt pads, trails) within 150 feet of the Merced River, including selective 

campgrounds and associated facilities in Yosemite Valley and at Housekeeping Camp. Restoration at 

the Ahwahnee Row and Tecoya concessioner employee housing area would be guided by a 50-foot 

setback from Indian Creek. The topography and habitat at the former Lower and Upper Rivers 

Campgrounds would also be restored. These restoration actions would prevent further riverbank 

erosion, provide hydrologic connectivity for meadows and riparian habitats, reduce vegetation 

trampling, enhance the hydrologic function within the floodplain, enhance water quality, increase the 

amount of wildlife habitat, increase productivity in riparian and aquatic ecosystems, and reduce 

human presence and human-related impacts. These actions would have segmentwide, long-term, 

moderate, beneficial effects on aquatic and terrestrial wildlife in Segment 2. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-408 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

TABLE 9-78: ALTERNATIVE 4 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 2

Current WHR 

Habitat Typea Acres 

Proposed Future WHR 

Habitat Typea

Acres (WHR Habitat Type 

Restored/Enhanced)b

Barren 2 

Meadow 17 Meadow 21 

Sparsely vegetated 2 

Lower montane broadleaf 15 Lower montane broadleaf 15 

Lower montane needleleaf 67 

A mosaic of meadow, black 

oak, and open canopy 

coniferous forest 

67 

Lower montane broadleaf 1 Riparian & floodplain: 

cottonwood, willow, mix of 

upland deciduous & coniferous 

forest 

46 

Lower montane needleleaf 45 

Barren 4 Riparian: cottonwood, willow, 

mix of upland deciduous & 

coniferous forest 

45 

Lower montane needleleaf 41 

Total 194 Total 194 

Abbreviations: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow systems), or 

restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, AND 2011. 

To enhance the development of riparian vegetation in the vicinity of El Capitan moraine, the park 

would replant the area upstream aggressively with native vegetation. However, when compared to 

Alternatives 2 and 3, this action would not directly mitigate for the channel incision upstream that has 

reduced the frequency of inundation within the riparian zone, meadows, and floodplain. This 

restorative action would result in local, short-term, adverse impacts on fish and wildlife associated 

with restoration-related activities, ground disturbance, human presence, increases in sedimentation, 

and potential for incidental spills to reach aquatic habitats (including the Merced River). Adhering to 

proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable 

(see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce these shortterm impacts to minor and adverse. This restoration action would be expected to have a local, longterm, minor, beneficial impact on fish and other aquatic species that use the Merced River and 

adjacent riparian habitat in Segment 2. 

Under Alternative 4, the park would implement measures to restore and protect meadow by 

implementing actions that are similar to previous alternatives (Alternatives 2 and 3), but with less 

intensity. Currently, some roads and trails bisect or otherwise cross through meadows and cause 

fragmentation, soil compaction, and vegetation trampling of valley meadows. Additionally, these roads 

and trails limit or disrupt meadow hydrologic connectivity. To address these issues, the park would 

remove fill from wetlands and sensitive areas at Ahwahnee Meadow, install boardwalk in wet areas, 

and add culverts to improve hydrologic connectivity; however, existing roadways and trails would be 

retained. Stoneman Meadow would be restored by removing a portion of Southside Drive and 

realignment of the road; the Curry Orchard parking lot would be redesigned to promote water flow 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 4 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-409

from the cliff walls to Stoneman Meadow; boardwalk would be extended through wet areas to Curry 

Village. At El Capitan Meadow, all informal trails would be removed and restoration fencing would be 

used to designate appropriate meadow access points and guide visitors toward boardwalks and 

viewing platforms to protect meadow habitat, as described for Alternative 3. The Valley Loop Trail 

would be rerouted out of Slaughterhouse Meadow to an upland area. These actions would collectively 

improve meadow and wetland habitat integrity, increase the extent of meadows, and enhance 

contiguity of meadow habitats as well as hydrological connectivity between meadow, riparian, and 

floodplain habitats, resulting in beneficial effects on wildlife that use these habitats. 

Collectively, these restoration actions would result in local, minor, short-term adverse impacts on 

wildlife in Segment 2. Potential minor, adverse impacts include noise- related to restoration/removal 

activities, human presence, and removal of vegetation or alteration of habitat that is in or immediately 

adjacent to affected areas. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1, and MM-WL-2, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, 

where possible, would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, 

implementation of these measures would also enhance meadow and riparian habitat quality by 

reducing fragmentation, soil compaction, vegetation trampling, erosion, and hydrological 

disconnection; enhance channel free flow; and increase channel complexity. Thus, when combined, 

these actions under Alternative 4 would result in segmentwide, long-term, moderate, beneficial 

impacts on wildlife that use riparian and wetland habitats as habitat quality, quantity, and integrity are 

improved and habitat disturbance is decreased in Segment 2. 

Biological Resource Actions. 

Yosemite Valley Campgrounds: Like Alternative 3, specific restoration actions under Alternative 4 to 

enhance the river’s biological values in Segment 2 include removing all campsites within 150 feet of the 

bed and banks of the Merced River and restoring 12 acres of floodplain/riparian habitat, and 

designating river access at the North Pines Campground. Restoration of riparian habitat throughout 

Yosemite Valley would result in segment-wide, long-term, moderate, and beneficial impacts to fish 

and wildlife. 

El Capitan Meadow: In addition to actions common to Alternatives 2-6, Alternative 4 would install 

restoration fencing along the northern perimeter of El Capitan Meadow to designate appropriate 

meadow access points along boardwalks and viewing platforms. Alternative 4 would remove all 

informal trails in sensitive and frequently inundated areas and in areas that trails incise meadow and 

promote habitat fragmentation. Restoration of El Capitan Meadow and rerouting or removal of 

informal trails would result in local, long-term, minor to moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife 

from reduction of trampling from foot traffic that causes habitat fragmentation. 

Ahwahnee Meadow: Specific actions under Alternative 4 in Segment 2 to enhance the river’s 

biological values at the Ahwahnee Meadow include: removing fill in sections of trails that passes 

through meadow and wetland habitats and replace the trails with boardwalk. However, unlike 

Alternatives 2 and 3, Northside Drive and the adjacent bike path would remain under Alternative 4. 

Hydrological connectivity between both sides of Northside Drive would be enhanced by increasing 

the number of culverts. Trail improvement and meadow restoration would result in local, long-term, 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-410 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

minor to moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife at the Ahwahnee Meadow as wetland 

fragmentation and vegetation trampling is reduced, and wetland connectivity to the river is enhanced. 

Stoneman Meadow: Like Alternatives 2 and 3, specific actions in Alternative 4 to enhance the 

biological values of the Merced River include restoring Stoneman Meadow by removing 1,335 feet of 

Southside Drive and re-aligning the road through Boystown area. The Orchard Parking Lot would be 

redesigned and engineering solutions would be applied to promote water flow and improve meadow 

health to increase drainage from the cliff walls to Stoneman Meadow. The meadow boardwalk would 

be extended through wet areas to Curry Village (up to 275'). Restoration of Stoneman Meadow and 

protection of sensitive wetland habitat would result in local, long-term, minor to moderate, and 

beneficial impacts on meadow wildlife. 

Former Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds: Specific actions to enhance biological values of the 

Merced River at the Former Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds in Alternative 4 include restoring 

the topography of 16.5 acres of the floodplain. Alternative 4 would remove remaining asphalt, 

decompact soils of former roads and campsites and re-establish channels that have been filled, place 

large box culverts under the road to allow water flow, and fence and close the riparian zone at former 

Upper River to protect the riverbank from trampling. Restoration of the Former Upper and Lower 

Rivers Campgrounds would result in local, long-term, moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife 

inhabiting riparian and riverine habitats, including mammals such as mule deer and black bear, reptiles 

such as garter snake, amphibians such as Pacific chorus frog, and many bird species such as songbirds 

and raptors. 

Short-term, adverse impacts associated with restorative actions at the Yosemite Valley campgrounds, 

El Capitan, Ahwahnee, and Stoneman meadows, and at the Former Upper and Lower Rivers 

Campgrounds under Alternative 4 may include noise associated with restoration activities, human 

presence, and modification of habitat as a result of rerouting or formalizing trails, removal of campsites 

and fill, and revegetation. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation 

where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, these adverse 

impacts are expected to only last for the duration of the restoration activity (campsite removal and 

habitat restoration) and over the long term, these restoration actions would have moderate, beneficial 

impacts on wildlife in Segment 2. 

Hydrologic/Geologic Resource Actions. Under Alternative 4, specific restoration actions associated 

with hydrologic/geologic resources in Segment 2 include moving unimproved parking areas out of 

sensitive floodplain habitat at Camp 6, removing the Ahwahnee and Sugar Pine Bridges to enhance the 

free-flowing condition of the Merced River, and mitigate for the scouring effects of Stoneman Bridge 

by placement of large wood. Additionally, riparian habitat would be restored where needed, and brush 

layering and a constructed logjam would be placed in the vicinity of the Stoneman Bridge. Drainage in 

this area would be improved by the addition of culverts. At the Ahwahnee Bridge, trails would be 

rerouted or connected to resilient areas (e.g., the north bank of the river). Restoration of riparian and 

floodplain habitats and enhancing the free-flowing condition of the river would have long-term, 

moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife within Yosemite Valley. Species that use riparian and 

riverine habitats would benefit the most from these actions, including mammals such as mule deer and 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 4 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-411

black bear, reptiles such as garter snake, amphibians such as Pacific chorus frog, and many bird species 

such as songbirds and raptors. Additionally, these actions would have a long-term, moderate, 

beneficial impact on fish as riparian habitat establishes and the free flowing condition of the river is 

enhanced in Segment 2.

Short-term, local, minor, and adverse impacts associated with restorative actions under Alternative 4 

may include noise associated with restoration activities, human presence, and modification of habitat 

as a result of bridge removal and revegetation. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, 

MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of 

vegetation where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Under Alternative 4, the NPS would reduce the maximum daily visitation allowed in Yosemite Valley 

from current levels to allow for increased resource restoration and reduce crowding and congestion in 

Segment 2. However, Alternative 4 differs from Alternatives 2 and 3 because both commercial and 

private boating would be allowed in Segment 2 of the river corridor. Therefore, potential beneficial 

effects on fish and wildlife related to reductions in human disturbance would not be as substantial as 

with Alternatives 2 and 3. 

In general, visitor use in Segment 2 under Alternative 4 would be reduced as a result of reducing or 

repurposing park facilities. The following facilities would be reduced or repurposed under Alternative 

4: Curry Village stables (stock day rides would no longer be available), Yosemite Lodge Gift Shop and 

Nature Shop, and Housekeeping Camp shower houses and restrooms. The Housekeeping Camp 

Grocery Store would be removed. In addition, some Housekeeping Camp lodging units would be 

converted into a day use area. These actions would generally have local, minor, beneficial to negligible 

effects on wildlife related to a reduction in human disturbance. 

In addition, Alternative 4 would create opportunities for picnicking adjacent to some parking areas 

such as Superintendent’s House (Residence 1), Yosemite Village, Church Bowl, and Happy Isles. 

Private and commercial boating would be allowed in Segment 2; however, the location of use and 

amount of use would be limited to certain segments (and reaches within those segments) and regulated 

by a permit system. Compared to Alternative 1 (No Action), these actions would generally have local, 

minor to negligible, beneficial effects on fish and wildlife. 

Alternative 4 would increase the capacity of overnight camping accommodations in Segment 2, mostly 

as a result of increases in individual and group camp sites. Additionally, permanent employee housing 

would be constructed at Yosemite Village and Curry Village, and new campgrounds would be 

constructed at the former Lower and Upper Rivers Campgrounds 150 feet away from the river. This 

increase in overnight camping accommodations and permanent employee housing would result in 

local, minor to moderate, adverse impacts on wildlife habitat and may increase human-wildlife 

conflicts in Segment 2, especially with black bears. The increase in capacity of overnight camping 

accommodations would require an increase in Wildlife Management staffing dedicated to the Bear 

Program and potentially impact Wildlife Management’s funding for use on other ecologically-relevant 

issues and protection of special-status species. The increase in human-wildlife conflicts would be most 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-412 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

pronounced at the Upper Pines Campground, former Lower River and Upper River campgrounds, 

Boys Town, Curry Village stables, west of Yosemite Lodge, Camp 4, and west of Backpackers 

Campground (although 25 current campsites would be removed from the 100-year floodplain). Lodging 

capacity would decrease under Alternative 4; however, day parking would be reduced by removing 

parking spaces that are currently located within the 100-year floodplain and formal and informal 

roadside parking areas. To compensate for loss of parking, new parking spaces would be added west of 

the current Yosemite Lodge parking. The new parking areas would be constructed in previously 

disturbed areas and would not result in a loss of wildlife habitat, resulting in negligible effects. 

Actions that remove or reduce park facilities under Alternative 4 would result in local, short-term, 

adverse impacts on fish through potential discharges of sediments and other pollutants during 

construction activities. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, 

where possible, would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. Removal of facilities 

located adjacent or within the 100-year floodplain would allow for natural reestablishment of riparian 

vegetation along the Merced River corridor and would have local, long-term, moderate, beneficial 

impacts on aquatic and terrestrial wildlife inhabiting these areas. In the long-term, wildlife would benefit 

from reduced human presence and human-related pressures (such as noise, human food, and vegetation 

trampling). Continued use of select facilities within the floodplain would result in continued minor, 

adverse impacts on riparian habitat and wildlife in limited areas of Segment 2. 

Although construction of new campsites would occur outside of the dynamic 10-year floodplain, new 

development under Alternative 4 would result in local, short-term, minor, adverse impacts on aquatic 

wildlife and local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife in Segment 2. Adverse impacts include 

noise associated with construction activities, human presence, and disturbance or minor habitat loses in 

each project area. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to 

MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, 

would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. Long-term, adverse impacts would include 

effects associated with increased human presence. Likewise, actions to add day parking and picnic areas 

would have similar temporary and long-term impacts. 

Curry Village & Campgrounds. Actions under Alternative 4 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Curry Village include the reorganization of Curry Village and the rerouting of 

South Side Drive at Boys Town. Construction activities at Curry Village would result in direct, 

temporary and permanent losses of wildlife habitats as well as redevelopment of existing developed 

areas (table 9-79). Outside of previously developed areas, impacts to wildlife habitats would primarily 

occur in ponderosa pine forest and, to a much lesser extent, wet meadow. Ponderosa pine forest is one 

of the dominant wildlife habitats in Segment 2. Losses would occur through vegetation clearing, 

grading, site development or other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over vegetation). As shown in 

table 9-79 below, only a small percentage of the affected wildlife habitats would be affected by the 

facility actions in Curry Village. Impacts to wet meadow habitat would occur in a small meadow area 

currently disconnected from the larger Stoneman Meadow to the north by Happy Isle Loop Road. In 

addition, wildlife habitats at Curry Village are adjacent to already developed areas, and therefore 

currently experience high levels of visitation and human-related impacts such as vegetation trampling 

and soil compaction. Therefore, losses in habitat, while long-term, would be local, adverse and minor. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 4 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-413

TABLE 9-79: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

CURRY VILLAGE & CAMPGROUNDS – ALTERNATIVE 4 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Ponderosa Pine 6.35 0.4% 

Wet Meadow 0.03 <0.1% 

Redevelopmentb 1.97 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Effects related to construction activities, including potential displacement of individuals due to noise 

and human presence, as well as the potential for direct mortalities, would be similar to that described 

for Alternative 2. However, these adverse impacts are expected to only last for the duration of 

construction activities. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures presented MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, 

where possible, would reduce these localized, short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. Actions under Alternative 4 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village include measures to formalize and relocate parking 

facilities 150 feet away from the river in order to facilitate riparian restoration goals. The Camp 

6/Village Center Parking Area would be formalized with 750 designated parking spaces by 

redeveloping part of the current administrative footprint. 100 parking spaces would be added at 

Yosemite Village. The intersection at Northside Drive and Village Drive (Camp 6 intersection) would 

be re-aligned to meet standards for a proper four-way intersection and improve performance. A threeway intersection at Sentinel Drive and the entrance to the parking area would be added to improve 

traffic flow and alleviate congestion. An entry road to Camp 6 parking lot from Sentinel Drive would 

be added to improve traffic flow and alleviate congestion at nearby intersections. On-grade pedestrian 

crossings with proper sight lines would be provided to alleviate pedestrian/vehicle conflicts. 

As noted in table 9-80, over half of the area affected by the above actions would occur at sites that are 

already developed. Outside of those sites, the actions at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village would result in 

direct temporary and permanent losses would primarily occur in ponderosa pine forest and, to a much 

lesser extent, montane riparian and wet meadow habitats. Losses to these habitat types would occur 

through vegetation clearing, grading, site development or other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over 

vegetation). As shown in table 9-80, only a small percentage of these wildlife habitats would be 

impacted by the actions at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. The potentially affected wildlife habitats are 

adjacent to already developed areas, and therefore experience high levels of visitation and humanrelated impacts. Therefore, losses in habitat, while long-term, would be local, adverse and minor. 

Like actions at Curry Village, construction activities would result in short-term, temporary impacts to 

wildlife. For the same reasons discussed above for the Curry Village area, construction activities under 

Alternative 4 at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village would result in local, short-term, minor, adverse impacts 

to wildlife in Segment 2. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-414 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

TABLE 9-80: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

CAMP 6 AND YOSEMITE VILLAGE – ALTERNATIVE 4 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Riparian 0.81 0.3% 

Ponderosa Pine 12.22 0.7% 

Wet Meadow 0.28 <0.1% 

Redevelopmentb 14.18 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4. Actions under Alternative 4 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 include: the removal of old and temporary housing at 

Highland Court and the Thousands Cabins; the construction of two new concessioner housing areas 

and the construction of 78 employee parking spaces; redevelopment west of Yosemite Lodge to 

provide an additional 150 day use parking spaces and area for 15 tour buses; relocation of existing tour 

bus drop off area to Highland Court to provide 3 bus loading/unloading spaces; and the construction 

of a pedestrian underpass to alleviate pedestrian/vehicle conflicts. 

Like other proposed facility projects, construction activities at Yosemite Lodge would result in direct 

temporary and permanent losses of wildlife habitats along with redevelopment of existing disturbed 

areas (table 9-81). Impacts to wildlife habitats would occur entirely in ponderosa pine forest, one of 

the dominant wildlife habitats in Segment 2. Losses would occur through vegetation clearing, grading, 

site development or other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over vegetation). As shown in table 9-81, 

only a small percentage of this habitat would be impacted. In addition, potentially affected habitat is 

adjacent to already developed areas, and therefore experience high levels of visitation and humanrelated impacts. Therefore, losses in habitat, while long-term, would be local, adverse and minor. 

TABLE 9-81: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

YOSEMITE LODGE AND CAMP 4 – ALTERNATIVE 4 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Hardwood 0.08 <0.1% 

Ponderosa Pine 14.80 0.8% 

Redevelopmentb 3.69 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 4 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-415

Like actions at Curry Village, construction activities would result in short-term, temporary impacts to 

wildlife. For the same reasons discussed above for the Curry Village area, construction-related actions 

under Alternative 4 at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 would result in local, short-term, minor, adverse 

impacts to wildlife in Segment 2. 

In summary, as shown in table 9-82, actions to manage visitor use and facilities would result in the loss 

of 34.57 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in long-term, local, minor, adverse impacts to wildlife. 

TABLE 9-82: SUMMARY OF HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND 

FACILITIES IN SEGMENT 2 – ALTERNATIVE 4 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Hardwood 0.08 <0.1% 

Montane Riparian 0.81 0.3% 

Ponderosa Pine 33.37 1.8% 

Wet Meadow 0.31 <0.1% 

Redevelopmentb 19.84 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Under Alternative 4, total visitor use levels would reduce by 19% from the total visitors per day who 

visited Yosemite Valley in 2011. Total day use would reduce by 29%. Although there is an overall 

reduction in total visitor use levels in Segment 2 under Alternative 4, there is a net increase in the total 

overnight accommodations in Yosemite Valley by 7%. Thus, human-related impacts on wildlife in 

Segment 2, especially during the peak season (summer) would continue to be long-term, local, minor 

and adverse. Facility removal and new construction actions would result in local, short-term, adverse 

impacts on fish and wildlife through potential discharges of sediments and other pollutants during 

removal activities, removal of habitats, and disturbances associated with construction activities. 

Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as 

applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce 

these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, wildlife would also benefit from a 

combination of other actions to manage visitor use and park facilities in Segment 2. The overall 

reduction in maximum total daily visitation to the Valley from current levels, combined with 

restoration activities, would promote the recovery of riparian vegetation and reduce human-related 

pressures on wildlife in sensitive areas such as riparian habitats adjacent to the river corridor in 

Segment 2. The quality of wildlife habitat in Segment 2 would be improved in general under 

Alternative 4. 

Segment 2 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within Segment 2 under 

Alternative 4 would result in the restoration of 194 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in long-term, 

segmentwide, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to manage visitor use and facilities 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-416 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

would result in the loss of 34.57 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in long-term, local, minor, adverse 

impacts to wildlife. 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced Gorge and El Portal 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 4, the NPS would designate oak protection areas in the Odgers’ fuel transfer center 

and parking lots adjacent to the fuel transfer center to improve root health, water uptake, and soil 

aeration for oak trees. Parking within 10 feet of the base of oak trees would be prohibited. New 

parking and building construction would be prohibited within the oak protection area. The park 

would also remove nonnative fill, decompact soils, treat invasive plants, and plant native understory 

plant species to restore the area. Habitat restoration actions that would occur in Segment 4 are 

summarized in table 9-83, and are similar to those described for Alternatives 2 and 3. 

TABLE 9-83: ALTERNATIVE 4 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 4

Current WHR 

Habitat Typea Acres 

Proposed future WHR 

Habitat Typea

Acres (WHR Habitat Type 

Restored/Enhanced)b

Foothill broadleaf woodland 1 Valley oak woodland 1 

Sparsely vegetated 2 Riparian & floodplain: cottonwood, 

willow, mix of upland deciduous & 

coniferous forest 

11 

Lower montane broadleaf 9 

Total 12 Total 12 

Abbreviation: WHR = wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow systems), or 

restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, AND 2011. 

As summarized in table 9-83, a total of approximately 12 acres of riparian, floodplain, and valley oak 

woodland habitats would be restored in Segment 4 under Alternative 4 (this includes restoration 

actions common to Alternatives 2-6), resulting in direct benefits to fish and wildlife that use these 

habitat types. This action would result in local, short-term, negligible, adverse impacts on wildlife 

during restoration activities due to increased noise and human presence. In the long term, this action 

would result in local, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife species that depend on oak trees for habitat 

and food. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Like other alternatives, Alternative 4 would provide for similar kinds and amounts of use that exist 

today in Segment 3. Thus, no additional beneficial or adverse impacts on wildlife would result from 

actions to manage visitor use and facilities under Alternative 4. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 4 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-417

In Segment 4, visitor day parking would be expanded at the Abbieville site; this area would primarily be 

used for visitor access to Yosemite Valley. The expanded parking area would be constructed within an 

existing disturbed area (Abbieville/Trailer Village), so impacts on wildlife habitat would be avoided. 

However, there would local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife related to increased human 

disturbance. 

Under Alternative 4, employee housing would be developed at El Portal Village Center and Rancheria 

Flat and new employee parking spaces would be added at these locations. While all new units would 

be built outside of the 100-year floodplain, they would fall within the river corridor. The addition of 

employee housing and park facilities development would increase the total built environment in 

Segment 4. Housing development at El Portal and Rancheria Flat would be expected to result in shortterm impacts on wildlife from construction activities and human presence, while in the long term, 

these actions would result in local, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife caused by increased disturbance 

from human presence. 

Segments 3 and 4 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within Segments 3 

and 4 under Alternative 4 would result in the restoration of 12 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in 

long-term, local, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to manage visitor use and facilities 

would result in short-term, local, minor, adverse impacts to wildlife. 

Segments 5– 8: South Fork Merced River 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Compared to Alternatives 2 and 3, Alternative 4 would include less habitat restoration as the Wawona 

Golf Course and tennis courts would remain. Actions specifically targeted to protect culturally 

sensitive areas would benefit wildlife as well, including the relocation or removal of select campsites 

and stock campground sites that are within the 100-year floodplain or culturally sensitive areas. Effects 

on habitat as a result of restoration actions that would occur in Segment 7 are summarized in table 9-84. 

TABLE 9-84: ALTERNATIVE 4 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 7 

Current habitat type Acres 

Proposed Future 

Habitat Type 

Acres Restored 

or Enhanced 

Lower montane needleleaf 7 

Riparian: cottonwood, willow, mix 

of upland deciduous & coniferous 

forest 

7 

Total 7 Total 7 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow 

systems), or restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, AND 2011. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-418 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

As summarized in table 9-84, a total of approximately seven acres of riparian habitat would be restored 

in Segment 7 under Alternative 4 (this includes restoration actions common to Alternatives 2-6), 

resulting in direct benefits to fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. The removal of select 

campsites within the floodplain would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife 

as riparian habitat is restored and wildlife are subject to less human presence and human-related 

pressures. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities

Alternative 4 would provide for similar kinds and amounts of use that exist today in Segment 5. Visitor 

use is not allowed in Segment 6 due to water quality and safety concerns associated with the Wawona 

Impoundment. Visitor use in Segment 8 is very minimal, and river values would continue to be 

protected. Thus, wildlife habitat would remain relatively intact and relatively undisturbed by park 

visitors in Segments 5, 6, and 8. 

Under Alternative 4, Segment 7 would provide for similar kinds and amounts of use compared to those 

that exist today. Unlike Alternatives 2 and 3, the Wawona Golf Course and Store would remain under 

Alternative 4. In addition, the Wawona Hotel tennis courts would remain. Therefore, impacts from 

these improvements would remain unchanged from the Alternative 1 (No Action). However, 

commercial day rides would be discontinued and the Wawona stables would be repurposed as 

campgrounds. Private boats would be allowed in Segment 7; however, limitations on location and 

amount of use would be applied. Overnight capacities would be reduced at the Wawona Campground 

and two campsites at the Wawona Stock Campground would be relocated to the Wawona stables. 

Additional day parking would be added for the Mariposa Grove outside of the river corridor. These 

actions would result in negligible effects on wildlife. 

Removal of commercial day rides under Alternative 4 would help to reduce the presence of parasitic 

bird species, reduce vegetation trampling and soil compaction, and allow for habitat restoration. 

Actions to reduce overnight capacities would result in short-term, adverse impacts on aquatic and 

terrestrial wildlife, including noise associated with demolition, removal, and restoration activities; 

ground disturbance, human presence, habitat modification, and potential increase in suspended 

sediments to immediate areas of the Merced River in Segment 7. Adhering to proposed mitigation 

measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and 

avoiding the removal of riparian vegetation, where possible, would reduce these short-term impacts to 

minor and adverse. Continued operation of the Wawona Golf Course and Store, and the Wawona 

Hotel tennis courts would continue to contribute to the total built environment in Segment 7 of the 

river corridor. However, the Alternative 4 combined actions would restore riparian habitat, reduce 

riverbank erosion, reduce the overall built environment, and reduce human presence and human 

related pressures on wildlife. Thus, actions to manage visitor use and facilities in Segment 7 would 

result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife. 

Wawona Campground. Facilities actions at the Wawona Campground would involve removal of 27 

sites that are either within the 100-year floodplain or in culturally sensitive areas. This would reduce 

visitor use in this area, resulting in a decrease of vegetation trampling. Overall, these actions would 

result in a local, long-term, minor, beneficial impact on wildlife in Wawona. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 4 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-419

Segments 5, 6, 7 and 8 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within 

Segments 5, 6, 7 and 8 under Alternative 4 would result in the restoration of seven acres of wildlife 

habitats, resulting in long-term, segmentwide, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to manage 

visitor use and facilities would result in long-term, local, minor, beneficial impacts to wildlife. 

Summary of Impacts from Alternative 4: Resource-based Visitor Experiences and Targeted 

Riverbank Restoration 

Several actions proposed under Alternative 4 would benefit fish and wildlife, including actions that are 

targeted to improve habitat quality for aquatic, riparian-dependent, and meadow-dependent fish and 

wildlife where these habitats are near or adjacent to existing developments and high visitor use areas. 

Additionally, the park would implement measures to enhance the ecological complexity of riparian 

and aquatic habitat in targeted areas, increase channel free flow, improve water quality, and reduce 

erosion and scouring. When combined with restoration actions that are common to Alternatives 2–6, 

up to approximately 223 acres of meadow, riparian, black oak woodland, valley oak woodland, 

coniferous forest, broadleaved forest, and floodplain habitats would be enhanced or restored under 

Alternative 4, thereby benefiting fish and wildlife in the Merced River corridor that use these habitat 

types. Notable actions the park would implement that would directly benefit fish and wildlife under 

Alternative 4 include the following: 

 Remove structures and restore riverbanks, meadows, and riparian habitat in targeted areas 

within the river corridor; riparian vegetation would be aggressively restored in some areas 

such as upstream of El Capitan moraine. 

 Redirect recreational use of rivers and riverbanks to reduce riverbank erosion. 

 Remove, restore, relocate, or repurpose park facilities to efficiently use park facilities and 

reduce the built environment in the park; some facilities would be built to accommodate 

visitors or employees. 

 Manage total visitors to the park and visitor demands for day use parking space, lodging, and 

camping space. 

 Enhance meadow, riparian, and river hydrologic function, complexity, and connectivity. 

 Improve the free flow, complexity, and water quality of the Merced River. 

Actions to manage visitor use and facilities would result in the loss of 34.57 acres of wildlife habitats 

under Alternative 4. Potential adverse effects from these actions would primarily be associated with 

the active construction or restoration phase, and would be local, short term, and minor or negligible. 

When combined, the long-term effect of all of these measures would be a moderate, beneficial impact 

on wildlife and fish resources as habitats are restored and fragmentation and radiating impacts are 

reduced. While the expansion of overnight camping in Segment 2 would result in local, adverse 

impacts on wildlife due to loss of habitat, increased human-wildlife conflicts, and increased human 

presence in surrounding affected campgrounds, these impacts would be offset by an overall decrease 

in visitor use as well as an increase in habitat quality and quantity through restoration actions. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-420 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Cumulative Impacts from Alternative 4: Resource-based Visitor Experiences and Targeted 

Riverbank Restoration 

The past, present, and reasonably foreseeable actions used for the Alternative 4 evaluation are the 

same projects listed for Alternative 1 (No Action); a descriptions of past, present, and reasonably 

foreseeable future projects and plans is summarized in Appendix B. The actions under Alternative 4 

would generally contribute to beneficial impacts on fish and wildlife associated with the Merced River 

corridor over the long term. These actions are focused on restoring and improving aquatic, meadow, 

and riparian habitat quality within the Merced River corridor; therefore, fish and wildlife species that 

are associated with these habitat types would be most likely to be affected cumulatively by the 

proposed actions. While some localized increases in habitat disturbance would occur, overall visitor 

use would decrease and habitats would be restored. 

Wildlife communities have been manipulated by human development and population growth 

throughout the region for decades, and these actions have in many cases negatively influenced wildlife 

and wildlife habitat. The cumulative effects of past, present, and future reasonably foreseeable actions 

would be mixed, combining both adverse and beneficial effects. Cumulative beneficial effects on wildlife 

include habitat restoration and enhancement projects and ecosystem management, generally carried out 

by federal, state, and local public agencies as well as privately owned and managed conservation lands, 

open space, and mitigation banks. Adverse cumulative adverse effects would be related to increased 

facilities, regional growth, and visitor demand. Each of the aforementioned projects (listed under 

Alternative 1) has the potential to have substantial site-specific adverse effects on wildlife resources 

during construction (short term) and by direct displacement of resources (long term). In total, regional 

development and growth would contribute towards a net long-term, moderate, adverse effect on wildlife 

associated with the Merced River corridor. When these effects are combined cumulatively with the 

effects of restoration projects and other actions under Alternative 4, conditions for fish and wildlife 

populations in the study area would improve over time. While Alternative 4 would cumulatively 

contribute beneficial impacts, the overall cumulative effect of other past, present, and reasonably 

foreseeable actions, in combination with this alternative would be long term, minor, and beneficial. 

Environmental Consequences of Alternative 5: Enhanced Visitor Experiences and 

Essential River Bank Restoration 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 5, grazing in Merced Lake East Meadow would be managed as described for 

Alternatives 3. Beneficial effects to fish and wildlife would be the same as described for Alternative 3. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Alternative 5 would accommodate the same kinds and amounts of use that exist today in Segment 1. 

Visitor use would continue to focus on wilderness-oriented experiences characterized by self-reliance 

and opportunities for solitude. Private boating by permit would be allowed under Alternative 5. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 5 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-421

Overnight capacities at Merced Lake High Sierra Camp would be reduced; additionally, the flush 

toilets would be converted to composting toilets. All other zone capacities would remain similar to 

current levels along with the existing wilderness trailhead quota system. These actions would have 

local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on fish and wildlife in Segment 1. 

Total daily use levels in Segment 1 under Alternative 5 are estimated at 362 overnight users and 

approximately 450 day visitors. Compared with Alternative 1 (No Action), with an estimated 380 

overnight users and approximately 450 day visitors daily, Alternative 5 would reduce the number of 

overnight users by 18 users, or approximately 5%. The slight reduction in overnight facilities and 

overnight visitors represents a reduction in human presence, human-related pressures on wildlife, and 

reduced future impacts on wildlife habitat in Segment 1. Collectively, actions to manage visitor use and 

facilities under Alternative 5 would result in local, long-term, minor beneficial impacts on wildlife in 

Segment 1. The removal and conversion of existing improvements would result in local, short-term, 

adverse impacts on wildlife, including noise related to removal of infrastructures and human presence. 

Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as 

applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce 

these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp. The actions in the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp area proposed 

under Alternative 5 involve retention of the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp, reducing the capacity to 

42 beds, and replacing the flush toilets with composting toilets. These actions would result in a local, 

long-term, negligible, beneficial impact on wildlife in Segment 1.by reducing stresses on wildlife from 

visitor use and presence of infrastructure. 

Segment 1 Impact Summary: Actions to manage visitor use and facilities within Segment 1 under 

Alternative 5 would have local, long-term, negligible, beneficial impacts on wildlife. 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Alternative 5 proposes substantial restoration actions that would directly benefit fish and wildlife in 

Segment 2. The free-flowing condition of the Merced River would be enhanced by the removal of the 

Sugar Pine Bridge and the associated multi-use paved trail connecting Sugar Pine Bridge and 

Ahwahnee Bridge. Hydrological impacts of the Stoneman and Ahwahnee bridges would be mitigated 

with strategic placement of large wood on riverbanks, brush layering, and constructed logjams to 

address scouring. Water quality would be improved by relocating the Camp 6 parking lot away from 

the ordinary high-water mark and restoring riparian vegetation. The types of habitat that would be 

affected by these restoration actions in Segment 2, as well as the types of habitat that would be 

enhanced or restored, are summarized in table 9-85. 

As summarized in table 9-85, a total of approximately 182 acres of meadow, riparian, black oak 

woodland, coniferous forest, broadleaved forest, and floodplain habitats would be restored in 

Segment 2 under Alternative 5 (this includes restoration actions common to Alternatives 2-6), resulting 

in direct benefits to fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. Wildlife species inhabiting wetlands, 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-422 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

TABLE 9-85: ALTERNATIVE 5 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 2 

Current WHR 

Habitat Typea Acres 

Proposed Future WHR 

Habitat Typea

Acres (WHR Habitat Type 

Restored/Enhanced)b

Meadow 16 

Meadow 18 

Sparsely vegetated 2 

Lower montane broadleaf 15 Lower montane broadleaf 15 

Lower montane needleleaf 

65 

A mosaic of meadow, black oak, 

and open canopy coniferous 

forest 

65 

Lower montane broadleaf 1 Riparian & floodplain: 

cottonwood, willow, mix of 

upland deciduous & coniferous 

forest 

Lower montane needleleaf 44 41 

Barren 2 

Barren 4 Riparian: cottonwood, willow, mix 

of upland deciduous & coniferous 

forest 

40 

Lower montane needleleaf 36 

Total 182 Total 182 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow systems), or 

restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, AND 2011. 

riparian habitat, and riverine ecosystems would benefit from actions that remove select overnight and 

employee housing facilities within 100 feet of the ordinary high-water mark, including select camp 

sites at Backpackers Campground, Housekeeping Camp, Lower Pines Campground, and North Pines 

Campground. Approximately 20 acres of land within 150 feet of the ordinary high-water mark of the 

Merced River would be restored to riparian and floodplain habitat at the former Lower River 

Campground. Restoration at the Ahwahnee Row and Tecoya concessioner employee housing area 

would be guided by a 50-foot setback from Indian Creek. To enhance the development of riparian 

vegetation in the vicinity of El Capitan moraine, the park would replant the area aggressively with 

native vegetation, as described for Alternative 4. Restoration of these areas would prevent further 

riverbank erosion, provide hydrologic connectivity for meadows and riparian habitats, reduce 

vegetation trampling, enhance the hydrologic function within the floodplain, enhance water quality, 

increase the amount of wildlife habitat, increase productivity in riparian and aquatic ecosystems, and 

reduce human presence and human-related impacts. 

These actions would also result in local, short-term, adverse impacts on fish and wildlife during 

construction from ground disturbance, effects associated with human presence, increases in 

sedimentation, and potential for incidental spills to reach aquatic habitats (including the Merced 

River). Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MMWL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, would 

reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. When completed, these actions would have 

segmentwide, long-term, moderate, beneficial effects on aquatic and terrestrial wildlife. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 5 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-423

In addition to actions to restore riparian and aquatic habitat associated with the Merced River, 

Alternative 5 includes measures to restore and protect meadows by implementing actions that are 

similar to Alternatives 2–4, but only in essential areas that require restoration. Currently, some roads 

and trails bisect or otherwise cross through meadows and cause fragmentation, soil compaction, and 

vegetation trampling of Valley meadows. Additionally, these roads and trails limit or disrupt meadow 

hydrologic connectivity. To address these issues, the park would remove fill from wetlands and 

sensitive areas at the Ahwahnee Meadow, install boardwalk in wet areas, and add culverts to improve 

hydrologic connectivity (roadways and trails would be retained under Alternative 5). Stoneman 

Meadow would be restored by removing roadside parking and unnatural fill material, extending 

fencing to protect wetlands, and the Curry Orchard parking lot would be redesigned to promote water 

flow from the cliff walls to Stoneman Meadow. Fencing would be installed along the northern 

perimeter of El Capitan Meadow, and boardwalks and viewing platforms would be installed to reduce 

habitat fragmentation. Boardwalks would be constructed at the Valley Loop Trail to reduce impacts on 

wet meadow habitat in Slaughterhouse Meadow. These actions would collectively improve meadow 

and wetland habitat integrity, increase the extent of meadows, and enhance contiguity of meadow 

habitats as well as hydrological connectivity between meadow, riparian, and floodplain habitats. 

Collectively, these restoration actions would result in local, short-term, minor, adverse impacts on 

wildlife. Potential minor, adverse impacts include noise related to restoration/removal activities, 

effects associated with human presence, and removal of vegetation or alteration of habitat that is in or 

immediately adjacent to affected areas. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MMVEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of 

vegetation, where possible, would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, 

implementation of these measures would also enhance meadow and riparian habitat quality by 

reducing fragmentation, soil compaction, vegetation trampling, erosion, and hydrological 

disconnection; enhance channel free flow; and increase channel complexity. Thus, when combined, 

the Alternative 5 actions would result in segmentwide, long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial 

impacts on wildlife that use riparian and wetland habitats in Segment 2 as habitat quantity and quality 

is improved in several areas. Additionally, the removal of select campgrounds within 100 feet of the 

ordinary high-water mark of the Merced River would reduce human presence and human-related 

impacts on riparian and aquatic wildlife species in localized areas in Segment 2. 

Biological Resource Actions. 

Yosemite Valley Campgrounds: Specific restoration actions under Alternative 5 to enhance the 

river’s biological values in Segment 2 include removing all campsites within 100 feet of the bed and 

banks of the Merced River and restoring 6.5 acres of floodplain/riparian habitat, and designating river 

access at the North Pines Campground. Restoration of riparian habitat throughout Yosemite Valley 

would result in segment-wide, long-term, minor to moderate, and beneficial impacts to fish and 

wildlife. 

El Capitan Meadow: In addition to actions common to Alternatives 2-6 and similar to Alternative 4, 

Alternative 5 would install restoration fencing along the northern perimeter of El Capitan Meadow to 

designate appropriate meadow access points along boardwalks and viewing platforms. Alternative 5 

would remove all informal trails in sensitive and frequently inundated areas and in areas that trails 

incise meadow and promote habitat fragmentation. Conifers that block views of El Capitan from the 

roadside would be selectively removed. Restoration of El Capitan Meadow and rerouting or removal 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-424 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

of informal trails would result in local, long-term, minor to moderate, and beneficial impacts on 

wildlife from reduction of trampling from foot traffic that causes habitat fragmentation. 

Ahwahnee Meadow: Similar to Alternative 4, specific actions under Alternative 5 in Segment 2 to 

enhance the river’s biological values at the Ahwahnee Meadow include: removing fill in sections of 

trails that passes through meadow and wetland habitats and replace the trails with boardwalk. Unlike 

Alternatives 2 and 3, Northside Drive and the adjacent bike path would remain under Alternative 5. 

Hydrological connectivity between both sides of Northside Drive would be enhanced by increasing 

the number of culverts. Trail improvement and meadow restoration would result in local, long-term, 

minor to moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife at the Ahwahnee Meadow as wetland 

fragmentation and vegetation trampling is reduced, and wetland connectivity to the river is enhanced. 

Stoneman Meadow: Specific actions in Alternative 5 to enhance the biological values of the Merced 

River include restoring Stoneman Meadow by redesigning the Orchard Parking Lot. Through 

engineering solutions, Alternative 5 would promote water flow by increasing drainage from the cliff 

walls of the parking lot to Stoneman Meadows, thus improving meadow heath. Improving 

hydrological connectivity between the Orchard Parking Lot cliff walls and Stoneman Meadow would 

result in local, long-term, minor, and beneficial impacts on meadow habitat and associated meadow 

wildlife. 

Former Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds: Specific actions to enhance biological values of the 

Merced River at the Former Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds under Alternative 5 include 

restoring 35.6 acres of riparian and floodplain habitat at Lower Rivers Campground. Alternative 5 

would remove remaining asphalt, decompact soils of former roads and campsites and re-establish 

channels that have been filled, place large box culverts under the road to allow water flow, and fence 

and close the riparian zone at former Upper River to protect the riverbank from trampling. 

Restoration of the Former Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds would result in local, long-term, 

moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife inhabiting riparian and riverine habitats, including 

mammals such as mule deer and black bear, reptiles such as garter snake, amphibians such as Pacific 

chorus frog, and many bird species such as songbirds and raptors. 

Short-term, adverse impacts associated with restorative actions at the Yosemite Valley campgrounds, 

El Capitan, Ahwahnee, and Stoneman meadows, and at the Former Upper and Lower Rivers 

Campgrounds under Alternative 5 may include noise associated with restoration activities, human 

presence, and modification of habitat as a result of rerouting or formalizing trails, removal of campsites 

and fill, and revegetation. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation 

where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, these adverse 

impacts are expected to only last for the duration of the restoration activity (campsite removal and 

habitat restoration) and over the long term, these restoration actions would have moderate, beneficial 

impacts on wildlife in Segment 2. 

Hydrologic/Geologic Resource Actions. Under Alternative 5, specific restoration actions associated 

with hydrologic/geologic resources in Segment 2 include moving unimproved parking areas out of 

sensitive floodplain habitat at Camp 6, removing the Sugar Pine Bridge and berm to enhance the free-
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 5 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-425

flowing condition of the Merced River, and mitigate for the scouring effects of Stoneman Bridge by 

placement of large wood. Additionally, riparian habitat would be restored where needed, and brush 

layering and a constructed logjam would be placed in the vicinity of the Stoneman Bridge. Drainage in 

this area would be improved by the addition of culverts. At the Ahwahnee Bridge, trails would be 

rerouted or connected to resilient areas (e.g., the north bank of the river). Restoration of riparian and 

floodplain habitats, and enhancing the free-flowing condition of the river would have long-term, 

moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife within Yosemite Valley. Species that use riparian and 

riverine habitats would benefit the most from these actions. Additionally, these actions would have a 

long-term, moderate, beneficial impact on fish as riparian habitat establishes and the free flowing 

condition of the river is enhanced in Segment 2.

Short-term, local, minor, and adverse impacts associated with restorative actions under Alternative 5 

may include noise associated with restoration activities, human presence, and modification of habitat 

as a result of bridge removal and revegetation. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, 

MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of 

vegetation where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Alternative 5 would maintain similar kinds and amounts of visitor use and facilities in Yosemite Valley 

to those that exist today, with a few services and facilities reduced or eliminated (e.g., discontinue 

commercial day horseback rides from the Curry Village Stables, remove the Boystown Housing area, 

Happy Isles Snack Stand, and the Ice Rink). Overnight accommodations would increase and day 

parking and transit options would be expanded. Overall, Alternative 5 would accommodate the peak 

use levels during the summer season similar to current levels. 

Overnight capacities would increase in the Valley under Alternative 5. This increase would affect 

wildlife in the vicinity of Upper Pines Campground, former Upper River Campground, west of 

Backpackers Campground (although 15 current campsites would be removed from the 100-year 

floodplain), and in the vicinity of Camp 4 (Sunnyside Campground). Additionally, permanent 

employee housing would be constructed at Yosemite Village and Curry Village. These actions would 

result in both short- and long-term, local, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife related to increased 

human disturbance and human-wildlife conflicts, minor habitat loss (most actions would occur in 

existing disturbed areas), and increased radiating impacts. The increase in capacity of overnight 

camping accommodations would require an increase in Wildlife Management staffing dedicated to the 

Bear Program and potentially impact Wildlife Management’s funding for use on other ecologicallyrelevant issues and protection of special-status species. 

Day parking capacity would be expanded and formalized to provide additional parking spaces; most 

day parking would be provided at existing designated parking areas, but a new overflow parking area 

(the West Valley Overflow Parking Area) would be constructed in West Yosemite Valley, west of 

Cathedral Picnic Area and south of Southside Drive. While the construction of this new facility would 

not affect any sensitive habitats for wildlife, it would result in a substantial increase in visitor use and 

disturbance in an area that currently does not experience high levels of visitor use (when compared to 

East Yosemite Valley). Therefore, construction of this facility would result in local, long-term, 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-426 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

moderate, adverse impacts on wildlife. In addition, the NPS proposes the construction of new 

roundabout at the Bank 3-way intersection and a new pedestrian underpass at the Yosemite Falls 

intersection under Alternative 5. These actions would result in minor habitat loss near existing 

roadways and other improved areas, resulting in local, long-term, minor impacts on wildlife. In 

addition, construction activities would result in increased human presence, noise, and potential for 

sediment discharges immediately adjacent to affected areas. Adhering to proposed mitigation 

measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and 

avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce these impacts to minor and adverse. 

Curry Village & Campgrounds. Actions under Alternative 5 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Curry Village include the reorganization of Curry Village, including the 

construction of 98 hard-sided units, and the rerouting of South Side Drive at Boys Town. The units 

would be constructed within previously developed areas as well as within habitats adjacent to the 

existing Curry Village site. 

Construction activities at Curry Village would result in direct, temporary and permanent losses of 

wildlife habitats as well as the redevelopment of existing developed areas (see table 9-86). Outside of 

previously developed areas, impacts to wildlife habitats would primarily occur in ponderosa pine 

forest and, to a much lesser extent, wet meadow. Ponderosa pine forest is one of the dominant wildlife 

habitats in Segment 2. Losses would occur through vegetation clearing, grading, site development or 

other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over vegetation). As shown in table 9-86 below, only a small 

percentage of these wildlife habitats would be affected by the facility actions at Curry Village. Impacts 

to wet meadow habitat would occur in a small meadow area currently disconnected from the larger 

Stoneman Meadow to the north by Happy Isle Loop Road. In addition, wildlife habitats at Curry 

Village are adjacent to already developed areas, and therefore currently experience high levels of 

visitation and human-related impacts and disturbance. Therefore, losses in habitat, while long-term, 

would be local, adverse and minor. 

TABLE 9-86: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

CURRY VILLAGE & CAMPGROUNDS – ALTERNATIVE 5 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type Affected 

in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Ponderosa Pine 6.35 0.4% 

Wet Meadow 0.03 <0.1% 

Redevelopmentb 1.97 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Effects related to construction activities, including potential displacement of individuals due to noise 

and human presence, as well as the potential for direct mortalities, would be similar to that described 

for Alternative 2. However, these adverse impacts are expected to only last for the duration of 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 5 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-427

construction activities. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures presented MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, 

where possible, would reduce these localized, short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. Actions under Alternative 5 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village include measures to formalize and relocate parking 

facilities 150 feet away from the river in order to facilitate riparian restoration goals. The Camp 

6/Village Center Parking Area would be formalized with 850 designated parking spaces by 

redeveloping part of the current administrative footprint. 100 parking spaces would be added at 

Yosemite Village. Northside Drive would be re-routed to the south of the Yosemite Village day-use 

parking area. A pedestrian underpass and a roundabout at the Village Drive/Northside Drive (Camp 6) 

intersection would be constructed to address traffic congestion and pedestrian/vehicle conflicts. A 

three-way intersection at Sentinel Drive and the entrance to the parking area would be added to 

improve traffic flow and alleviate congestion at nearby intersections. 

As noted in table 9-87, over half of the area affected by the above actions would occur at sites that are 

already developed. Outside of those sites, the actions at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village would result in 

direct temporary and permanent losses would primarily occur in ponderosa pine forest and, to a much 

lesser extent, montane riparian and wet meadow habitats. Losses to these habitat types would occur 

through vegetation clearing, grading, site development or other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over 

vegetation). As shown in table 9-87, only a small percentage of these wildlife habitats would be 

impacted by the actions at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. The potentially affected wildlife habitats are 

adjacent to already developed areas, and therefore experience high levels of visitation and humanrelated impacts. Therefore, losses in habitat, while long-term, would be local, adverse and minor. 

TABLE 9-87: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

CAMP 6 AND YOSEMITE VILLAGE – ALTERNATIVE 5 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Riparian 0.81 0.3% 

Ponderosa Pine 12.22 0.7% 

Wet Meadow 0.28 <0.1% 

Redevelopmentb 14.18 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Like actions at Curry Village, construction activities would result in short-term, temporary impacts to 

wildlife. For the same reasons discussed above for the Curry Village area, construction-related 

activities under Alternative 5 at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village would result in local, short-term, minor, 

adverse impacts to wildlife in Segment 2. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-428 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4. Actions under Alternative 5 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 include: the removal of old and temporary housing at 

Highland Court and the Thousands Cabins; the construction of two new concessioner housing areas 

and the construction of 78 employee parking spaces; redevelopment west of Yosemite Lodge to 

provide an additional 300 day use parking spaces and area for 15 tour buses; relocation of existing tour 

bus drop off area to Highland Court to provide 3 bus loading/unloading spaces; and the construction 

of a pedestrian underpass to alleviate pedestrian/vehicle conflicts. 

Like other proposed facility projects, construction activities at Yosemite Lodge would result in direct 

temporary and permanent losses of wildlife habitats along with redevelopment of existing disturbed 

areas (table 9-88). Impacts to wildlife habitats would occur in ponderosa pine forest, one of the 

dominant wildlife habitats in Segment 2, as well as in montane hardwood habitat. Losses would occur 

through vegetation clearing, grading, site development or other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over 

vegetation). As shown in table 9-88, only a small percentage of this habitat would be impacted. In 

addition, potentially affected habitat is adjacent to already developed areas, and therefore experience 

high levels of visitation and human-related impacts such as vegetation trampling and soil compaction. 

Therefore, losses in habitat, while long-term, would be local, adverse and minor. 

TABLE 9-88: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

YOSEMITE LODGE AND CAMP 4 – ALTERNATIVE 5 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Hardwood 1.73 <0.1% 

Ponderosa Pine 15.47 0.9% 

Redevelopmentb 3.69 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Like actions at Curry Village, construction activities would result in short-term, temporary impacts to 

wildlife. For the same reasons discussed above for the Curry Village area, construction-related actions 

under Alternative 5 at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 would result in local, short-term, minor, adverse 

impacts to wildlife in Segment 2. 

In summary, as shown in table 9-89, actions to manage visitor use and facilities would result in the loss 

of 36.89 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in long-term, local, minor, adverse impacts to wildlife. 

Total daily visitor use in Yosemite Valley would decrease slightly under Alternative 5 (by 5%) compared 

to current levels. Total day visitors would decrease by 14%; however, total overnight visitors would 

increase by 16% in the Valley under Alternative 5. Continued levels of total visitors in Segment 2 of the 

river corridor would maintain human-related impacts on wildlife, especially during the peak season 

(summer). An increase in overnight visitor use would increase human-related impacts on wildlife in 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 5 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-429

TABLE 9-89: SUMMARY OF HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND 

FACILITIES IN SEGMENT 2 – ALTERNATIVE 5 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Hardwood 1.73 <0.1% 

Montane Riparian 0.81 0.3% 

Ponderosa Pine 34.04 1.9% 

Wet Meadow 0.31 <0.1% 

Redevelopmentb 19.84 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Segment 2, and would continue to be long-term, local, minor and adverse. Facility removal and new 

construction actions would result in local, short-term, adverse impacts on fish and wildlife through 

potential discharges of sediments and other pollutants during removal activities, removal of habitats, and 

disturbances associated with construction activities. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures 

MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding 

the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Thus, actions to maintain total daily use and to increase the number of overnight visitors in Segment 2 

would have segmentwide, long-term, minor, adverse effects on wildlife through human disturbance to 

habitats and increased human-wildlife conflicts. 

Segment 2 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within Segment 2 under 

Alternative 5 would result in the restoration of 182 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in long-term, 

segmentwide, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to manage visitor use and facilities 

would result in the loss of 36.89 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in long-term, local, minor, adverse 

impacts to wildlife. 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced Gorge and El Portal

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Restoration and enhancement actions in Segments 3 and 4 under Alternative 5 would be similar to 

those described for Alternative 4. The park would designate oak protection areas in the Odgers’ fuel 

transfer center and parking lots adjacent to the fuel transfer center to improve root health, water 

uptake, and soil aeration for oak trees. New parking and building construction would be prohibited 

within the oak protection area. Parking within 10 feet of the base of oak trees would be prohibited. 

The park would also remove nonnative fill, decompact soils, treat invasive plants, and plant native 

understory plant species to restore valley oak woodland habitat. Habitat restoration actions that would 

occur in Segment 4 are summarized in table 9-90. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-430 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

TABLE 9-90: ALTERNATIVE 5 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 4 

Current WHR 

Habitat Typea Acres 

Proposed Future WHR 

Habitat Typea

Acres (WHR Habitat Type 

Restored/Enhanced)b

Foothill broadleaf woodland 1 Valley oak woodland 1 

Lower montane broadleaf 11 Riparian & floodplain 11 

Total 12 Total 12 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow 

systems), or restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, AND 2011. 

As summarized in table 9-90, approximately 12 acres of riparian, floodplain, and valley oak woodland 

habitats would be restored in Segment 4 under Alternative 5 (this includes restoration actions common 

to Alternatives 2-6), resulting in direct benefits to fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. This 

action would result in local, short-term, negligible, adverse impacts on wildlife during restoration 

activities from increased noise and human presence. In the long term, this action would result in local, 

minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife species that depend on oak trees for habitat and food. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities

Alternative 5 would provide for similar kinds and amounts of use that exist today in Segment 3. Thus, no 

additional beneficial or adverse impacts on wildlife would result from actions to manage visitor use and 

facilities under Alternative 5. Impacts would be similar to those described for Alternative 1 (No Action). 

In Segment 4, Alternative 5 would introduce additional visitor use with the development of a remote 

parking area and increase in employee housing throughout El Portal. Impacts associated with the 

construction and operation of these improvements would be the same as described for Alternative 4. 

Thus, actions to manage visitor use and park facilities in Segment 4 under Alternative 5 would 

collectively result in local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife. 

Segments 3 and 4 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within Segments 3 

and 4 under Alternative 5 would result in the restoration of 12 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in 

long-term, local, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to manage visitor use and facilities 

would result in short-term, local, minor, adverse impacts to wildlife. 

Segments 5– 8: South Fork Merced River 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 5, restoration actions would be limited to actions specifically targeted to protect 

culturally sensitive areas and relocating two stock use campground sites that are within the 100-year 

floodplain or culturally sensitive areas to the Wawona Maintenance area. Restoration actions that 

would occur in Segment 7 are summarized in table 9-91. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 5 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-431

TABLE 9-91: ALTERNATIVE 5 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 7 

Current habitat type Acres 

Proposed Future 

Habitat Type 

Acres restored 

or enhanced 

Lower montane needleleaf 3 Riparian: cottonwood, willow, mix of 

upland deciduous & coniferous forest 3 

Total 3 Total 3 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow 

systems), or restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, and 2011. 

Approximately three acres of riparian habitat would be restored in Segment 7 under Alternative 5 (this 

includes restoration actions common to Alternatives 2-6), resulting in direct benefits to fish and 

wildlife that use these habitat types. The relocation of campsites within the floodplain would result in 

local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife as riparian habitat is restored and wildlife are 

subject to decreased human presence. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities

Alternative 5 would result in the same effects on wildlife as described for Alternative 4 in Segments 5, 

6, and 8. While recreation-related activities would be somewhat higher under Alternative 5 than under 

Alternative 4, these segments do not experience as much concentrated use, and effects on wildlife 

would be negligible. 

Under Alternative 5, Segment 7 would provide for similar kinds and amounts of use compared with 

current uses. The Wawona Golf Course and Store and the Wawona Hotel tennis courts would remain 

under Alternative 5. Commercial day rides would continue and private boats would be allowed in 

Segment 7; however, limitations on location and amount of use would be applied. Overnight capacities 

would be slightly reduced at the Wawona Campground, and two campsites at the Wawona stock camp 

would be relocated to the Wawona stables. Additional day parking would be added for the Mariposa 

Grove outside of the river corridor. Daily use levels associated with Segment 7 under Alternative 5 are 

estimated at 14,384 people per day for all users (similar to Alternatives 3 and 4), with visitor use 

representing the majority at 13,443 people per day. The reduction in day use and total daily visitor 

numbers would reduce human-related pressures on wildlife in general. 

The removal of overnight capacities would result in short-term, adverse impacts on aquatic and 

terrestrial wildlife, including noise associated with demolition, removal, and restoration activities; 

ground disturbance; effects associated with human presence; habitat modification; and potential 

increase in suspended sediments to the Merced River in Segment 7. Adhering to proposed mitigation 

measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and 

avoiding the removal of riparian vegetation, where possible, would reduce these short-term impacts to 

minor and adverse. In the long term, removal of some campsites at the Wawona Campground and 

relocation of the stock use campsites would allow for habitat restoration, which would benefit wildlife. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-432 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Continued operation of the park facilities in Segment 7 would contribute to the total built 

environment in Segment 7. Combined actions under Alternative 5 would restore some riparian habitat 

and reduce riverbank erosion, slightly reduce the overall built environment, and slightly reduce human 

presence and human-related pressures on wildlife. Thus, actions to manage visitor use and facilities in 

Segment 7 would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife. 

Wawona Campground. Facilities actions at the Wawona Campground would involve removal of 13 

sites that are either within the 100-year floodplain or in culturally sensitive areas. This would reduce 

visitor use in this area, resulting in a decrease of vegetation trampling. Overall, these actions would 

result in a local, long-term, minor, beneficial impact on wildlife in Wawona. 

Segments 5, 6, 7 and 8 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within 

Segments 5, 6, 7 and 8 under Alternative 5 would result in the restoration of three acres of wildlife 

habitats, resulting in long-term, segmentwide, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to manage 

visitor use and facilities would result in long-term, local, minor, beneficial impacts to wildlife. 

Summary of Impacts from Alternative 5: Enhanced Visitor Experiences and Essential 

Riverbank Restoration 

Many of the Alternative 5 actions would improve habitat conditions for fish and wildlife, including 

actions targeted to improve habitat quality for aquatic, riparian-dependent, and meadow-dependent 

fish and wildlife where these habitats are near or adjacent to existing developments and high visitor 

use areas. Additionally, Alternative 5 includes measures to enhance the ecological complexity of 

riparian and aquatic habitat in targeted areas, increase channel free flow, improve water quality, and 

reduce erosion and scouring. When combined with restoration actions that are common to 

Alternatives 2–6, up to approximately 197 acres of meadow, riparian, black oak woodland, valley oak 

woodland, coniferous forest, broadleaved forest, and floodplain habitats would be enhanced or 

restored under Alternative 5, thereby benefiting fish and wildlife in the Merced River corridor that use 

these habitat types. Notable actions under Alternative 5 that would benefit fish and wildlife include the 

following: 

 Remove facilities in targeted areas near the Merced River and restore riverbanks, meadows, 

and riparian habitat; riparian vegetation would be aggressively restored in some areas such as 

the vicinity of El Capitan moraine. 

 Restrict recreational use of rivers and riverbanks to reduce riverbank erosion. 

 Remove, restore, relocate, or repurpose park facilities to efficiently use park facilities and 

reduce the built environment in the park; some facilities would be built to accommodate 

visitors or employees. 

 Manage total visitors to the park and visitor demands for day parking space, lodging, and 

camping space. 

 Enhance meadow, riparian, and river hydrologic function, complexity, and connectivity. 

 Improve the free flow, complexity, and water quality of the Merced River. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 5 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-433

Actions to manage visitor use and facilities would result in the loss of 36.89 acres of wildlife habitats. 

Alternative 5 would not significantly change the total daily visitation rates to Yosemite Valley from 

current rates; however, it would increase total overnight visitation rates by 16%. Thus, human-related 

pressures to wildlife and wildlife habitat in Segment 2 may increase compared to current conditions. 

The management of parking areas (reducing informal parking) and overnight use would reduce 

ongoing impacts on habitat related to human disturbance. In addition, the construction of new parking 

and campground areas would result in both short-term and long-term, local, adverse effects on 

wildlife. The construction of a new parking area in West Yosemite Valley would have the greatest 

impact of proposed facilities because it would introduce additional human activity in a location that 

does not currently experience heightened use. Adverse effects from Alternative 5 associated with 

restoration activities would be limited to the construction or restoration phase and would be local, 

short term, and minor or negligible. However, the collective long-term effect of restorative measures 

and construction of new facilities outside of the floodplain and sensitive habitats would be minor and 

beneficial to fish and wildlife as habitats are restored and the quality, quantity, and integrity of habitat 

in the Merced River corridor is improved. Like Alternatives 2-4, these effects would be most 

prominent in areas of high human use, such as Yosemite Valley and Wawona (Segments 2 and 7, 

respectively). 

Cumulative Impacts from Alternative 5: Enhanced Visitor Experiences and Essential 

Riverbank Restoration 

The past, present, and reasonably foreseeable actions used for evaluating Alternative 5 are the same 

projects listed for Alternative 1 (No Action); a descriptions of past, present, and reasonably foreseeable 

future projects and plans is summarized in Appendix B. The Alternative 5 actions would generally 

contribute to beneficial impacts on fish and wildlife associated with the Merced River corridor over the 

long term. These actions are focused on restoring and improving aquatic, meadow, and riparian habitat 

quality within the Merced River corridor; therefore, fish and wildlife species that are associated with 

these habitat types would be most likely to be affected cumulatively beneficially by the proposed actions. 

Wildlife communities have been manipulated by human development and population growth 

throughout the region for decades, and these actions have negatively influenced wildlife and wildlife 

habitat. The cumulative effects of past, present, and future reasonably foreseeable cumulative effects 

would be mixed, combining both adverse and beneficial effects. Cumulative beneficial effects on 

wildlife include habitat restoration, enhancement projects, and ecosystem management, generally 

carried out by federal, state, and local public agencies as well as privately owned and managed 

conservation lands, open space, and mitigation banks. Adverse cumulative adverse effects would be 

related to increased facilities, regional growth, and visitor demand. Each of the aforementioned 

projects (listed under Alternative 1) has the potential to have substantial site-specific adverse effects on 

wildlife resources during construction (short term) and by direct displacement of resources (long 

term). In total, regional development and growth would contribute toward a net long-term, moderate, 

adverse effect on wildlife associated with the Merced River corridor. When these effects are combined 

cumulatively with the effects of restoration projects and other actions under Alternative 5, conditions 

for fish and wildlife populations in the study area would remain stable or improve from higher habitat 

quality along the Merced River. Although general effects associated with Alternative 5 would be 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-434 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

beneficial, the overall cumulative effect of other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable actions, in 

combination with this alternative, would be long term and negligible. 

Environmental Consequences of Alternative 6: Diversified Visitor Experiences and 

Selective Riverbank Restoration 

Segment 1: Merced River Above Nevada Fall 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 6, grazing in Merced Lake East Meadow would be managed as described for 

Alternatives 3. Beneficial effects to fish and wildlife would be the same as described for Alternative 3. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Alternative 6 would accommodate the same kinds and amounts of use that exist today in Segment 1. 

Visitor use would continue to focus on wilderness-oriented experiences characterized by self-reliance 

and opportunities for solitude. Primary visitor use in Segment 1 would include hiking, private boating, 

and overnight backpacking. Private boating by permit would be allowed under Alternative 6. 

Overnight capacities at Merced Lake High Sierra Camp would be maintained at current levels; 

additionally, the flush toilets would be converted to composting toilets. All other zone capacities 

would remain similar to current levels along with the existing wilderness trailhead quota system. 

Collectively, actions to maintain similar kinds and levels of use as current levels would result in 

impacts similar to that described for Alternative 1 (No Action): continued local, long-term, minor, 

adverse impacts on wildlife in Segment 1. 

Merced Lake High Sierra Camp. The actions in the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp area proposed 

under Alternative 6 involve retention of the Merced Lake High Sierra Camp and replacing the flush 

toilets with composting toilets. Actions to maintain similar kinds and levels of use as current levels 

would result in continued local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife within Segment 1 

through ongoing stresses related to concentrated human use. 

Segment 1 Impact Summary: Actions to manage visitor use and facilities within Segment 1 under 

Alternative 6 would have local, long-term, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife. 

Segment 2: Yosemite Valley 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Alternative 6 would result in the lowest amount of habitat being restored when compared with 

Alternatives 2, 3, 4, and 5, although the amount proposed is still substantial. The free-flowing 

condition of the Merced River would be enhanced with strategic placement of large wood on 

riverbanks to address scouring and the addition of brush layering and constructed logjams. Alternative 

6 includes measures to fill in the cutoff channel before the Sugar Pine Bridge and place large wood 

below Sugar Pine Bridge to reduce scour. Additionally, culverts would be installed along Northside 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-435

Drive to improve drainage. Water quality would be enhanced by moving the unimproved parking lot at 

Camp 6 away from the river and rerouting the stock use trail from Curry Village stables to Happy Isles 

north of the existing trail. These actions would all directly benefit fish and wildlife associated with the 

Merced River over the long term. The types of habitat that would be affected by these restoration 

actions in Segment 2, as well as the types of habitat that would be enhanced or restored, are 

summarized in table 9-92. 

TABLE 9-92: ALTERNATIVE 6 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 2

Current WHR 

Habitat Typea Acres 

Proposed Future 

WHR Habitat Typea

Acres (WHR Habitat Type 

Restored/Enhanced)b

Meadow 16 

Meadow 18 

Sparsely vegetated 2 

Lower montane broadleaf 15 Lower montane broadleaf 15 

Lower montane needleleaf 58 

A mosaic of meadow, black oak, 

and open canopy coniferous forest 58 

Lower montane broadleaf 1 Riparian & floodplain: cottonwood, 

willow, mix of upland deciduous & 

coniferous forest 

29 

Lower montane needleleaf 28 

Barren 4 Riparian: cottonwood, willow, mix 

of upland deciduous & coniferous 

forest 

36 

Lower montane needleleaf 32 

Total 156 Total 156 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow systems), or 

restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, AND 2011. 

As summarized in table 9-92, approximately 156 acres of meadow, riparian, black oak woodland, 

coniferous forest, broadleaved forest, and floodplain habitats would be restored in Segment 2 under 

Alternative 6 (this includes restoration actions common to Alternatives 2-6), resulting in direct benefits 

to fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. Wildlife species inhabiting wetlands, riparian habitat, 

and riverine ecosystems would benefit the most from actions that remove select overnight camping 

and lodging facilities within 100 feet of the ordinary high-water mark, including campsites at 

Backpackers Campground, Housekeeping Camp, Lower Pines Campground, and North Pines 

Campground; redesign Yosemite Lodge out of the 100-year floodplain; and restore 11.6 acres of 

riparian habitat. Approximately 16.5 acres of land within 150 feet of the ordinary high-water mark of 

the Merced River would also be restored to riparian and wetland habitat at the former Upper and 

Lower River campgrounds. Restoration at the Ahwahnee Row and Tecoya concessioner employee 

housing area would be guided by a 50-foot setback from Indian Creek. Restoration actions within 

these select areas would prevent further riverbank erosion, provide hydrologic connectivity for 

meadows and riparian habitats, reduce vegetation trampling, enhance the hydrologic function within 

the floodplain, enhance water quality, increase the amount of wildlife habitat, increase productivity in 

riparian and aquatic ecosystems, and reduce human presence and human-related impacts. These 
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9-436 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

actions would result in segmentwide, long-term, moderate, beneficial effects on aquatic and terrestrial 

wildlife in Segment 2. 

To enhance the development of riparian vegetation in the vicinity of El Capitan moraine, the park 

would increase large wood loading upstream of the El Capitan moraine to Sentinel Beach Picnic Area 

and place large wood and constructed logjams in the channel, as described for Alternative 2. This 

restoration action would be expected to have a local, long-term, minor, beneficial impact on fish and 

other aquatic species that use the Merced River and adjacent riparian habitat in Segment 2. 

Under Alternative 6, the park would implement measures to restore and protect meadows by 

implementing actions that are similar to Alternatives 2–5 but only in select areas that require 

restoration. Currently, some roads and trails bisect or otherwise cross through meadows and cause 

fragmentation, soil compaction, and vegetation trampling of Valley meadows. Additionally, these 

roads and trails limit or disrupt meadow hydrologic connectivity. To address these issues, the park 

would remove fill from wetlands and sensitive areas at Ahwahnee Meadow, install boardwalk in wet 

areas, and add culverts to improve hydrologic connectivity (roadways and trails would be retained 

under Alternative 6). Stoneman Meadow health would be improved by redesigning and engineering 

the Curry Orchard parking lot to promote water flow from the cliff walls to Stoneman Meadow. 

Fencing would be installed along the northern perimeter of El Capitan Meadow, and boardwalks and 

viewing platforms would be installed to reduce habitat fragmentation. Boardwalks would be 

constructed at the Valley Loop Trail also to reduce impacts on wet meadow habitat in Slaughterhouse 

Meadow. Select conifer trees in El Capitan Meadow would be removed. These actions would 

collectively improve meadow and wetland habitat integrity, increase the extent of meadows over time, 

and enhance contiguity of meadow habitats as well as hydrological connectivity between meadow, 

riparian, and floodplain habitats. 

Collectively, these restoration actions would result in local, minor, short-term adverse impacts to 

wildlife in Segment 2. Potential minor, adverse impacts include noise related to restoration/removal 

activities, effects associated with human presence, and removal of vegetation or alteration of habitat 

that is in or immediately adjacent to affected areas. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MMHYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the 

removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

However, implementation of these measures would enhance meadow and riparian habitat quality by 

reducing fragmentation, soil compaction, vegetation trampling, erosion, and hydrological 

disconnection and enhance channel free flow and increase channel complexity. Thus, when 

combined, the actions would result in segmentwide, long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial impact 

to wildlife that use riparian and wetland habitats in Segment 2. Additionally, the removal of select 

campgrounds within the 100 feet of the ordinary high-water mark of the river under Alternative 6 

would slightly reduce human presence and human-related impacts on riparian and aquatic wildlife 

species. 

Biological Resource Actions. 

Yosemite Valley Campgrounds: Like Alternative 5, specific restoration actions under Alternative 6 to 

enhance the river’s biological values in Segment 2 include removing all campsites within 100 feet of the 

bed and banks of the Merced River and restoring 6.5 acres of floodplain/riparian habitat, and 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-437

designating river access at the North Pines Campground. Restoration of riparian habitat throughout 

Yosemite Valley would result in segment-wide, long-term, minor to moderate, and beneficial impacts 

to fish and wildlife. 

El Capitan Meadow: Alternative 6 would install restoration fencing along the northern perimeter of 

El Capitan Meadow to designate appropriate meadow access points along boardwalks and viewing 

platforms. The NPS would remove all informal trails in sensitive and frequently inundated areas and in 

areas that trails incise meadow and promote habitat fragmentation. Additionally, Alternative 6 would 

selectively remove conifers that block the views of El Capitan from the roadside. Restoration of 

El Capitan Meadow and rerouting or removal of informal trails would result in local, long-term, minor 

to moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife from reduction of trampling from foot traffic that 

causes habitat fragmentation. Selective removal of conifers would result in local, long-term, minor, and 

adverse impacts on wildlife because there is abundant similar habitat nearby. 

Ahwahnee Meadow: Similar to Alternatives 4 and 5, specific actions under Alternative 6 in Segment 2 

to enhance the river’s biological values at the Ahwahnee Meadow include: removing fill in sections of 

trails that passes through meadow and wetland habitats and replace the trails with boardwalk. Unlike 

Alternatives 2 and 3, Northside Drive and the adjacent bike path would remain under Alternative 6. 

Hydrological connectivity between both sides of Northside Drive would be enhanced by increasing 

the number of culverts. Trail improvement and meadow restoration would result in local, long-term, 

minor to moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife at the Ahwahnee Meadow as wetland 

fragmentation and vegetation trampling is reduced, and wetland connectivity to the river is enhanced. 

Stoneman Meadow: Like Alternative 5, specific actions in Alternative 6 to enhance the biological 

values of the Merced River include restoring Stoneman Meadow by redesigning the Orchard Parking 

Lot. Through engineering solutions, Alternative 6 would promote water flow by increasing drainage 

from the cliff walls of the parking lot to Stoneman Meadows, thus improving meadow heath. 

Improving hydrological connectivity between the Orchard Parking Lot cliff walls and Stoneman 

Meadow would result in local, long-term, minor, and beneficial impacts on meadow habitat and 

associated meadow wildlife. 

Former Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds: Like Alternative 5, specific actions to enhance 

biological values of the Merced River at the Former Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds under 

Alternative 6 include restoring the topography of 16.5 acres of the floodplain. Alternative 6 would 

remove remaining asphalt, decompact soils of former roads and campsites and re-establish channels 

that have been filled, place large box culverts under the road to allow water flow, and fence and close 

the riparian zone at former Upper River to protect the riverbank from trampling. Restoration of the 

Former Upper and Lower Rivers Campgrounds would result in local, long-term, moderate, and 

beneficial impacts on wildlife inhabiting riparian and riverine habitats, including mammals such as 

mule deer and black bear, reptiles such as garter snake, amphibians such as Pacific chorus frog, and 

many bird species such as songbirds and raptors. 

Short-term, adverse impacts associated with restorative actions at the Yosemite Valley campgrounds, 

El Capitan, Ahwahnee, and Stoneman meadows, and at the Former Upper and Lower Rivers 

Campgrounds under Alternative 6 may include noise associated with restoration activities, human 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-438 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

presence, and modification of habitat as a result of rerouting or formalizing trails, removal of campsites 

and fill, and revegetation. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation 

where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. However, these adverse 

impacts are expected to only last for the duration of the restoration activity (campsite removal and 

habitat restoration) and over the long term, these restoration actions would have moderate, beneficial 

impacts on wildlife in Segment 2. 

Hydrologic/Geologic Resource Actions. Under Alternative 6, restoration actions associated with 

hydrologic/geologic resources in Segment 2 include moving unimproved parking areas out of sensitive 

floodplain habitat at Camp 6 and mitigate for the scouring effects of Stoneman Bridge by placement of 

large wood. Additionally, riparian habitat would be restored where needed, and brush layering and a 

constructed logjam would be placed in the vicinity of the Stoneman Bridge. Drainage in this area 

would be improved by the addition of culverts. The Sugar Pine and Ahwahnee Bridges would be 

retained under Alternative 6; however, channel complexity would be enhanced around the bridges by 

installation of constructed logjams and placement of large wood below Sugar Pine Bridge. The cut off 

channel before Sugar Pine Bridge would be filled in. Alternative 6 would restore riparian and 

floodplain habitat through the removal or relocation of infrastructure that constrict the free-flowing 

condition of the river or are located in sensitive areas and revegetation. Thus, specific actions under 

Alternative 6 would have long-term, moderate, and beneficial impacts on wildlife within Yosemite 

Valley. Species that inhabit riparian and riverine habitats would benefit the most from these actions, 

including mammals such as mule deer and black bear, reptiles such as garter snake, amphibians such as 

Pacific chorus frog, and many bird species such as songbirds and raptors. Additionally, these actions 

would have a long-term, moderate, beneficial impact on fish as riparian habitat establishes and the free 

flowing condition of the river is enhanced in Segment 2.

Short-term, local, minor, and adverse impacts associated with restorative actions under Alternative 6 

may include noise associated with restoration activities, human presence, and modification of habitat 

as a result of bridge removal and revegetation. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of 

vegetation where possible would reduce these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities 

Alternative 6 would maintain kinds and amounts of visitor use and facilities in Yosemite Valley 

compared to current levels. Overnight accommodations would increase and day parking and transit 

options would be expanded. Overall, Alternative 6 would accommodate peak use levels during the 

summer season. Actions related to overnight camping would be similar to those described for 

Alternatives 4 and 5, with additional expansions. Facility expansions or construction are proposed at 

Upper Pines Campground, former Lower River Campground, former Upper River Campground, west 

of Yosemite Lodge, Camp 4, and the area west of Backpackers Campground (although 15 current 

campsites would be removed from the 100-year floodplain). A new campground would be constructed 

at Eagle Creek. Additionally, permanent employee housing would be constructed at Yosemite Village 

and Curry Village. These actions would result in both short- and long-term, minor, adverse impacts on 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-439

wildlife in Segment 2 related to increased human disturbance, human-wildlife conflicts, minor habitat 

loss (most actions would occur in existing disturbed areas), and increased radiating impacts. 

In general, visitor activities would be enhanced to promote direct connection to the river. Certain 

activities that are not part of the recreational ORV would be reduced or discontinued, including 

commercial stock day rides at the Curry Village Stables (discontinued). Commercial boating 

opportunities would be available. The Curry Village stables and Yosemite Lodge bicycle stand would 

remain in service, while the Yosemite Lodge Nature Shop would be repurposed and the Gift Shop 

would be reduced. The Housekeeping Camp facilities would be retained. Private and commercial 

boating would be allowed in the Valley and limited to designated areas under a quota system. These 

actions would have a negligible effect on wildlife in Segment 2. 

Day-visitor parking capacity would be expanded and formalized; most day-visitor parking would be 

provided at existing designated parking areas or in repurposed previously disturbed areas. Actions that 

would affect wildlife habitat include the construction of new roundabouts at Camp 6, Bank 3-way 

intersection, and Sentinel crossover and a new pedestrian underpass at the Yosemite Falls intersection. 

Additionally, the West Valley Overflow Parking Area would be developed south of Southside Drive to 

meet demand for day use parking in the El Capitan Area of Segment 2. These actions would result in 

minor habitat loss near existing roadways and other improved areas, resulting in local, long-term, 

minor impacts on wildlife. In addition, construction activities would result in increased human 

presence, noise, and potential for sediment discharges immediately adjacent to affected areas. 

Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as 

applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce 

these impacts to minor and adverse. 

Curry Village & Campgrounds. Actions under Alternative 6 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Curry Village include the reorganization of Curry Village, including the 

construction of 98 hard-sided units, and the rerouting of South Side Drive at Boys Town. The units 

would be constructed within previously developed areas as well as within habitats adjacent to the 

existing Curry Village site. 

Construction activities at Curry Village would result in direct, temporary and permanent losses of 

wildlife habitats as well as the redevelopment of existing developed areas (table 9-93). Outside of 

previously developed areas, impacts to wildlife habitats would primarily occur in ponderosa pine 

forest and, to a much lesser extent, wet meadow habitat. Ponderosa pine forest is one of the dominant 

wildlife habitats in Segment 2. Losses would occur through vegetation clearing, grading, site 

development or other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over vegetation). As shown in table 9-93 below, 

only a small percentage of these wildlife habitats would be affected by the facility actions at Curry 

Village. Impacts to wet meadow habitat would occur in a small meadow area currently disconnected 

from the larger Stoneman Meadow to the north by Happy Isle Loop Road. In addition, wildlife 

habitats at Curry Village are adjacent to already developed areas, and therefore currently experience 

high levels of visitation and human-related impacts and disturbance. Therefore, losses in habitat, while 

long-term, would be local, adverse and minor. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-440 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

TABLE 9-93: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

CURRY VILLAGE & CAMPGROUNDS – ALTERNATIVE 6 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Ponderosa Pine 6.35 0.4% 

Wet Meadow 0.03 <0.1% 

Redevelopmentb 1.97 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Effects related to construction activities, including potential displacement of individuals due to noise 

and human presence, as well as the potential for direct mortalities, would be similar to that described 

for Alternative 2. However, these adverse impacts are expected to only last for the duration of 

construction activities. Adhering to proposed mitigation measures presented MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, 

MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, 

where possible, would reduce these localized, short-term impacts to minor and adverse. 

Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. Actions under Alternative 6 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village include measures to formalize and relocate parking 

facilities 150 feet away from the river in order to facilitate riparian restoration goals. The Camp 6/ 

Village Center Parking Area would be formalized with 850 designated parking spaces by redeveloping 

part of the current administrative footprint. 100 parking spaces would be added at Yosemite Village. A 

pedestrian underpass and two roundabouts (one at the Village Drive/Northside Drive intersection and 

one at the Sentinel Drive/Northside Drive intersection) would be constructed to address traffic 

congestion and pedestrian/vehicle conflicts. A three-way intersection would be added at Sentinel 

Drive and the entrance to the parking area to improve traffic flow and alleviate congestion. 

As noted in table 9-94, over half of the area affected by the above actions would occur at sites that are 

already developed. Outside of those sites, the actions at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village would result in 

direct temporary and permanent losses would primarily occur in ponderosa pine forest and, to a much 

lesser extent, montane riparian and wet meadow habitats. Losses to these habitat types would occur 

through vegetation clearing, grading, site development or other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over 

vegetation). As shown in table 9-94, only a small percentage of these wildlife habitats would be 

impacted by the actions at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village. The potentially affected wildlife habitats are 

adjacent to already developed areas, and therefore experience high levels of visitation and humanrelated impacts. Therefore, losses in habitat, while long-term, would be local, adverse and minor. 

Like actions at Curry Village, construction activities would result in short-term, temporary impacts to 

wildlife. For the same reasons discussed above for the Curry Village area, construction-related actions 

under Alternative 6 at Camp 6 and Yosemite Village would result in local, short-term, minor, adverse 

impacts to wildlife in Segment 2. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-441

TABLE 9-94: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT 

CAMP 6 & YOSEMITE VILLAGE – ALTERNATIVE 6 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Riparian 0.81 0.3 

Ponderosa Pine 12.22 0.7 

Wet Meadow 0.28 0.09 

Redevelopmentb 14.18 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4. Actions under Alternative 5 in Segment 2 related to managing visitor 

use and facilities at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 include: the removal of old and temporary housing at 

Highland Court and the Thousands Cabins; the construction of two new concessioner housing areas 

and the construction of 78 employee parking spaces; redevelopment west of Yosemite Lodge to 

provide an additional 300 day use parking spaces and area for 15 tour buses; relocation of existing tour 

bus drop off area to Highland Court to provide 3 bus loading/unloading spaces; and the construction 

of a pedestrian underpass to alleviate pedestrian/vehicle conflicts. 

Like other proposed facility projects, construction activities at Yosemite Lodge would result in direct 

temporary and permanent losses of wildlife habitats along with redevelopment of existing disturbed 

areas (table 9-95). Impacts to wildlife habitats would occur in ponderosa pine forest, one of the 

dominant wildlife habitats in Segment 2, as well as in montane hardwood habitat. Losses would occur 

through vegetation clearing, grading, site development or other surface disturbance (e.g., driving over 

vegetation). As shown in table 9-95, only a small percentage of this habitat would be impacted. In 

addition, potentially affected habitat is adjacent to already developed areas, and therefore experience 

high levels of visitation and human-related impacts. Therefore, losses in habitat, while long-term, 

would be local, adverse and minor. 

TABLE 9-95: HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND FACILITIES AT YOSEMITE 

LODGE AND CAMP 4 – ALTERNATIVE 6 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Hardwood 1.73 <0/1% 

Ponderosa Pine 15.47 0.9% 

Redevelopmentb 3.69 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-442 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Like actions at Curry Village, construction activities would result in short-term, temporary impacts to 

wildlife. For the same reasons discussed above for the Curry Village area, construction-related actions 

under Alternative 6 at Yosemite Lodge and Camp 4 would result in local, short-term, minor, adverse 

impacts to wildlife in Segment 2. 

In summary, as shown in table 9-96, actions to manage visitor use and facilities would result in the loss 

of 36.89 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in long-term, local, minor, adverse impacts to wildlife. 

TABLE 9-96: SUMMARY OF HABITAT IMPACTS FROM ACTIONS TO MANAGE VISITOR USE AND 

FACILITIES IN SEGMENT 2 – ALTERNATIVE 6 

WHR Habitat Type Acres 

Percent of Habitat Type 

Affected in Segmenta

Segment 2 

Montane Hardwood 1.73 <0.1% 

Montane Riparian 0.81 0.3% 

Ponderosa Pine 34.04 1.9% 

Wet Meadow 0.31 <0.1% 

Redevelopmentb 19.84 N/A 

a This is a comparison of the acres of habitat impacted to the total acres of that habitat type in the segment. 

b Redevelopment refers to existing developed areas that will be rebuilt. 

SOURCE: NPS 2012c 

Alternative 6 would accommodate an increase in total daily use by approximately 4% compared to total 

visitors per day who visited the Valley in 2011. Additionally, total day use in the Valley would decrease by 

7%, but total overnight visitation would increase by 33%. Increased daily use and overnight use levels in 

Segment 2 of the Merced River corridor would increase human-related impacts on wildlife, especially 

during the peak season (summer). Human-wildlife conflicts with certain species, such as black bears, 

would potentially increase due to the increase in traffic resulting from an increase in total daily use and 

overnight use. Facility removal and new construction actions would result in local, short-term, adverse 

impacts on fish and wildlife through potential discharges of sediments and other pollutants during 

removal activities, removal of habitats, and disturbances associated with construction activities. 

Adhering to proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as 

applicable (see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of vegetation, where possible, would reduce 

these short-term impacts to minor and adverse. Thus, actions to increase the number of overnight and 

day visitors in Segment 2 would have segmentwide, long-term, minor to moderate, adverse effects on 

wildlife. Conversely, actions that remove or reduce certain kinds of visitor use activities would result in 

local, long-term, negligible to minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife. When these increased 

accommodations for visitor use are combined with the proposed restoration actions, long-term, minor, 

adverse impacts on wildlife from human presence and human-related pressures (such as noise, human 

food availability, wildlife fatalities from traffic, and vegetation trampling) would result in Segment 2. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-443

Segment 2 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within Segment 2 under 

Alternative 6 would result in the restoration of 156 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in long-term, 

segmentwide, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to manage visitor use and facilities 

would result in the loss of 36.89 acres of wildlife habitats and additional use over existing conditions, 

resulting in long-term, segmentwide, minor, adverse impacts to wildlife. 

Segments 3 and 4: Merced Gorge and El Portal 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Actions under Alternative 6 in Segments 3 and 4 would be similar to those described for Alternatives 3–5. 

The park would designate oak protection areas in the Odgers’ fuel transfer center and parking lots 

adjacent to the fuel transfer center to improve root health, water uptake, and soil aeration for oak 

trees. New parking and building construction would be prohibited within the oak protection area. 

Parking within 10 feet of the base of oak trees would be prohibited. The park would also remove 

nonnative fill, decompact soils, treat invasive plants, and plant native understory plant species to 

restore valley oak woodland habitat. Habitat restoration actions that would occur in Segment 4 are 

summarized in table 9-97, and would be the same as proposed for Alternative 5. 

TABLE 9-97: ALTERNATIVE 6 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 4

Current Habitat Type Acres Proposed Future 

Habitat Type 

Acres Restored 

or Enhanced 

Foothill broadleaf 1 Valley oak woodland 1 

Lower montane broadleaf 11 Lower montane broadleaf 11 

Total 12 Total 12 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in 

meadow systems), or restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, AND 2011. 

As summarized in table 9-97, a total of approximately 12 acres of riparian, floodplain, and valley oak 

woodland habitats would be restored in Segment 4 under Alternative 6 (this includes restoration actions 

common to Alternatives 2-6), resulting in direct benefits on fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. 

This action would result in local, short-term, negligible, adverse impacts on wildlife during restoration 

activities due to increased noise and human presence. In the long term, this action would result in local, 

minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife species that depend on oak trees for habitat and food. 

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities

In Segment 3, Alternative 6 would provide for similar kinds and amounts of use that exist today. Thus, 

no additional beneficial or adverse impacts on wildlife would result from actions to manage visitor use 

and facilities under Alternative 6. In Segment 4, Alternative 6 would introduce additional visitor use 

with the development of a remote parking area and increase in employee housing throughout 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-444 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

El Portal. These actions would be the same as described for Alternative 4, although housing levels 

would be somewhat less, resulting in correspondingly less impact related to human disturbance. The 

addition of a remote parking lot and high-density employee housing would result in an increase in the 

built environment in Segment 4. Additional human presence and traffic (from park employees and day 

visitors) would increase disturbance to wildlife and potentially increase human-related pressures on 

wildlife. Thus, actions to manage visitor use and park facilities would collectively result in local, longterm, minor, adverse impacts on wildlife. 

Segments 3 and 4 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within Segments 3 

and 4 under Alternative 6 would result in the restoration of 12 acres of wildlife habitats, resulting in 

long-term, local, moderate, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to manage visitor use and facilities 

would result in short-term, local, minor, adverse impacts to wildlife. 

Segments 5– 8: South Fork Merced River 

Impacts of Actions to Protect and Enhance River Values 

Under Alternative 6, the same restoration actions are proposed as described for Alternative 5: 

implementing actions specifically targeted to protect culturally sensitive areas, relocating two stock use 

campground sites that are within the 100-year floodplain or culturally sensitive areas to the Wawona 

Maintenance area, and removing some camp sites from the Wawona Campground that are either in 

culturally sensitive areas or within the 100-year floodplain. Restoration actions that would occur in 

Segment 7 are summarized in table 9-98, and would be the same as those proposed under Alternative 5. 

TABLE 9-98: ALTERNATIVE 6 HABITAT RESTORATION IN SEGMENT 7 

Current Habitat Type Acres 

Proposed Future 

Habitat Type 

Acres Restored 

or Enhanced 

Lower montane needleleaf 3 Riparian: cottonwood, willow, mix of 

upland deciduous & coniferous forest 3 

Total 3 Total 3 

Abbreviation: WHR = Wildlife Habitat Relationships 

a Current habitats that would be enhanced, converted (primarily through the removal of encroaching conifers in meadow 

systems), or restored by actions to protect and enhance river values. b Predominant type(s) and total amount of habitat that would be enhanced or restored. 

SOURCE: NPS 1997, 2010, AND 2011. 

As summarized in table 9-98, a total of approximately three acres of riparian habitat would be restored 

in Segment 7 under Alternative 6 (this includes restoration actions common to Alternatives 2-6), 

resulting in direct benefits to fish and wildlife that use these habitat types. The relocation and removal 

of campsites within the floodplain would result in local, long-term, minor, beneficial impacts on 

wildlife as riparian habitat is restored and wildlife are subject to decreased human presence. 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-445

Impacts of Actions to Manage User Capacities, Land Use, and Facilities

Alternative 6 would result in largely the same effects on wildlife as described for Alternative 4 in 

Segments 5, 6, and 8. While recreation-related activities would be somewhat higher than under this 

alternative, Segments 5, 6, and 8 do not experience as much concentrated use and effects on wildlife 

would be negligible. 

Alternative 6 proposes the same management actions as Alternative 5 in Segment 7. The Wawona Golf 

Course and Store and the Wawona Hotel tennis courts would remain under Alternative 6. Commercial 

day rides would continue, and private boats would be allowed in Segment 7. Overnight capacities at 

the Wawona Campground would remain essentially unchanged, with the exception of campsites that 

would be removed due to impacts to archeological resources and two campsites at the Wawona stock 

camp that would be relocated to the Wawona stables. Day parking capacity would not deviate from 

Alternatives 2–5. 

Daily use levels associated with Segment 7 under Alternative 6 would be similar to Alternative 3–5. The 

reduction in day use and total daily visitor numbers would reduce human-related pressures on wildlife 

in general. A slight reduction in overnight capacities would result in short-term, adverse impacts on 

aquatic and terrestrial wildlife, including noise associated with demolition, removal, and restoration 

activities; ground disturbance; effects associated with human presence; habitat modification; and 

potential increase in suspended sediments to the South Fork Merced River in Segment 7. Adhering to 

proposed mitigation measures MM-HYD-1, MM-VEG-1, MM-WL-1 to MM-WL-7, as applicable 

(see Appendix C), and avoiding the removal of riparian vegetation, where possible, would reduce these 

short-term impacts to minor and adverse. In the long term, removal of some campsites at the Wawona 

Campground and relocation of the stock use campsites would allow for habitat restoration, which 

would benefit wildlife. Continued operation of the park facilities in the Segment 7 would continue to 

contribute to the total built environment in Segment 7 of the river corridor. Combined actions in 

Alternative 6 would restore some riparian habitat and reduce riverbank erosion, slightly reduce the 

overall built environment, and reduce human presence and human-related pressures on wildlife. Thus, 

actions to manage visitor use and facilities in Segment 7 would result in local, long-term, minor, 

beneficial impacts on wildlife. 

Wawona Campground. Facilities actions at the Wawona Campground would involve removal of 13 

sites that are either within the 100-year floodplain or in culturally sensitive areas. This would reduce 

visitor use in this area, resulting in a decrease of vegetation trampling. Overall, these actions would 

result in a local, long-term, minor, beneficial impact on wildlife in Wawona. 

Segments 5, 6, 7 and 8 Impact Summary: Actions to protect and enhance river values within 

Segments 5, 6, 7 and 8 under Alternative 6 would result in the restoration of three acres of wildlife 

habitats, resulting in long-term, segmentwide, minor, beneficial impacts on wildlife. Actions to manage 

visitor use and facilities would result in long-term, local, minor, beneficial impacts to wildlife. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-446 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

Summary of Impacts from Alternative 6: Diversified Visitor Experiences and Selective 

Riverbank Restoration 

Under Alternative 6, the park would provide additional peak season capacity for visitors while 

restoring habitat for fish and wildlife. This includes actions targeted to improve habitat quality for 

aquatic, riparian-dependent, and meadow-dependent fish and wildlife where these habitats are near or 

adjacent to existing developments and high visitor use areas. Additionally, the park would implement 

measures to enhance the ecological complexity of riparian and aquatic habitat in targeted areas, 

increase channel free flow, improve water quality, and reduce erosion and scouring. When combined 

with restoration actions that are common to Alternatives 2–6, up to approximately 170 acres of 

meadow, riparian, black oak woodland, valley oak woodland, coniferous forest, broadleaved forest, 

and floodplain habitats would be enhanced or restored under Alternative 6, thereby benefiting fish 

and wildlife in the Merced River corridor that use these habitat types. Notable actions under 

Alternative 6 include the following: 

 Remove selected facilities within the 100-year floodplain of the Merced River and restore 

targeted areas of riverbanks, meadows, and riparian habitat; restoration of habitat would be 

achieved through passive and active restoration techniques and through design and 

engineered solutions. 

 Redirect recreational use of rivers and riverbanks to reduce riverbank erosion. 

 Remove, restore, relocate, or repurpose park facilities to efficiently use park facilities and 

reduce the built environment in the park; some facilities would be built to accommodate 

visitors or employees. 

 Manage for the increase in total daily visitors to the park and visitor demands for day parking 

space, lodging, and camping space. 

 Construct new overnight accommodations to compensate for those removed for restoration 

activities; expand overnight accommodations above existing conditions. 

 Enhance meadow, riparian, and river hydrologic function, complexity, and connectivity. 

 Improve the free flow, complexity, and water quality of the Merced River. 

Actions to manage visitor use and facilities would result in the loss of 36.89 acres of wildlife habitats. 

Alternative 6 would accommodate additional peak visitor use in the Valley. Thus, human-related 

pressures to wildlife and wildlife habitat would also increase. In addition, the construction of new 

parking, transportation improvements (roundabouts), and campground areas would result in both 

short- and long-term, adverse effects on wildlife. Adverse effects from Alternative 6 associated with 

restoration activities would be limited to the construction or restoration phase, and would be local, 

short term, and minor or negligible. The long-term effect of these measures would collectively be 

minor and adverse on fish and wildlife as human-related pressures continue to increase and affect 

habitat quality. Like Alternatives 2-5, these effects would be most prominent in areas of high human 

use such as Yosemite Valley and Wawona (Segments 2 and 7, respectively). 
Analysis Topics: Natural Resources 

Wildlife – Alternative 6 

Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS 9-447

Cumulative Impacts from Alternative 6: Diversified Visitor Experiences and Selective 

Riverbank Restoration 

The past, present, and reasonably foreseeable actions used for evaluating Alternative 6 are the same 

projects listed for Alternative 1 (No Action); a descriptions of past, present, and reasonably foreseeable 

future projects and plans is summarized in Appendix B. The restoration actions under Alternative 6 

would generally contribute to beneficial impacts on fish and wildlife associated with the Merced River 

corridor over the long term. These actions would be focused on restoring and improving aquatic, 

meadow, and riparian habitat quality within the Merced River corridor; therefore, fish and wildlife 

species associated with these habitat types would be most likely to be affected cumulatively by the 

proposed actions. Actions that would retain current facilities or services and construct new facilities 

would generally contribute to adverse impacts on fish and wildlife in the river corridor over the long 

term. Because actions under Alternative 6 would allow for higher amounts of visitor use, more park 

facilities and services would be retained within the floodplain of the river. Additionally, new or 

extended parking spaces, roadway improvements, and campsites would be constructed to 

accommodate increase in visitor demand for day parking and camping opportunities. 

As described previously, wildlife communities have been manipulated by human development and 

population growth throughout the region for decades, and these actions have negatively influenced 

wildlife and wildlife habitat. In total, regional development and growth would contribute towards a net 

long-term, moderate, adverse effect on wildlife associated with the Merced River corridor. When 

these effects are combined cumulatively with the effects of restoration projects and other actions in 

Alternative 6, conditions for fish and wildlife populations in the study area would remain the same or 

slightly worsen over time. While the cumulative contribution associated with Alternative 6 would be 

minor and adverse, the overall cumulative effect of other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable 

actions, in combination with this alternative, would also be long term, minor, and adverse. 
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES

9-448 Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan / DEIS

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