Revised Land and Resource 

Management Plan

United States

Department of

Agriculture Sumter National Forest

Forest Service

Southern Region

Management Bulletin R8-MB 116A January 2004 
Revised Land and

Resource Management Plan

Sumter National Forest

Abbeville, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenwood, Laurens,

McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Saluda, and Union Counties

Responsible Agency: USDA–Forest Service

Responsible Official: Robert Jacobs, Regional Forester

USDA–Forest Service

Southern Region

1720 Peachtree Road, NW

Atlanta, GA 33067-9102

For Information Contact: Jerome Thomas, Forest Supervisor

4931 Broad River Road

Columbia, SC 29212-3530

Telephone: (803) 561-4000

January 2004
 The picnic shelter on the cover was originally

named the Charles Suber Recreational Unit and

was planned in 1936. The lake and picnic area

including a shelter were built in 1938-1939. The

original shelter was found inadequate and a

modified model B-3500 shelter was constructed

probably by the CCC from camp F-6 in 1941.

The name of the recreation area was changed in

1956 to Molly’s Rock Picnic Area, which was

the local unofficial name. The name originates

from a sheltered place between and under two

huge boulders once inhabited by an AfricanAmerican woman named Molly.

 The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

prohibits discrimination in all its programs and

activities on the basis of race, color, national

origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political

beliefs, sexual orientation, or marital or family

status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all

programs.) Persons with disabilities who require

alternative means for communication of program

information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.)

should contact USDA's TARGET Center at (202)

720-2600 (voice and TDD).

 To file a complaint of discrimination, write

USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room

326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence

Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or

call (202) 720-5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is

an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Table of Contents

Preface 

Chapter 1 — Introduction To The Forest Plan 

Purpose of the Forest Plan .................................................................................. 1-1

Relationship of the Forest Plan to Other Documents Plan Structure .................. 1-1

Plan Structure ...................................................................................................... 1-2

Forest Description ................................................................................................ 1-2

Summary of the Analysis of Management Situation ........................................... 1-3

Summary of the Issues ......................................................................................... 1-3

Chapter 2 — Forestwide Direction 

Riparian Area Management, Water Quality, Aquatic Habitats, Soil and Air ....... 2-1

Wildlife Habitat and Vegetation .......................................................................... 2-5

Proposed, Endangered, Threatened, Sensitive, (PETS)

 and Locally-rare Species ................................................................................. 2-8

Special Areas, Rare Communities and Old Growth ............................................ 2-9

Forest Health ...................................................................................................... 2-11

Wood products and Special Forest Products ..................................................... 2-15

Fire Management ............................................................................................... 2-18

Recreation—Developed, Dispersed and Backcountry ....................................... 2-21

Roadless Areas and Wilderness Management ................................................... 2-23

Wild and Scenic Rivers ..................................................................................... 2-24

Aesthetics/Scenery Management ....................................................................... 2-26

Heritage Resources ............................................................................................ 2-27

Minerals and Geology ........................................................................................ 2-28

Access and Road Management .......................................................................... 2-29

Lands and Special Uses ..................................................................................... 2-30
Chapter 3 – Management Prescriptions 

1A—Designated Wilderness Area ....................................................................... 3-1

2A3—Designated Recreational River Segments (Chattooga

6C —Old Growth Areas managed with a Mix of Natural

9G2—Restoration of Upland Oak-Hickory

1B—Recommended Wilderness Study Areas ...................................................... 3-6

2A—Chattooga Wild and Scenic River Corridor ................................................ 3-8

2A1—Designated Wild River Segments (Chattooga River) ............................. 3-13

2A2—Designated Scenic River Segments (Chattooga River) .......................... 3-15

River) ...................................................................................................... 3-16

4D—Botanical / Zoological Areas ..................................................................... 3-18

4F—Scenic Areas .............................................................................................. 3-19

4G1—Calhoun Experimental Forest ................................................................. 3-20

5A—Administrative Sites ................................................................................. 3-21

5B—Designated Communication/Electronic Sites ........................................... 3-21

5C—Designated Utility Corridors ..................................................................... 3-22

 Processes and Restoration Activities ........................................................ 3-22

7A—Scenic Byway Corridor ............................................................................. 3-23

7D—Concentrated Recreation Zone .................................................................. 3-24

7E1—Dispersed Recreation Areas .................................................................... 3-25

7E2—Dispersed Recreation Areas with Vegetation Management .................... 3-26

8A1—Mix of Successional Forest Habitats ...................................................... 3-27

8B2—Woodland and Grassland/Savanna Habitats ........................................... 3-29

9A3—Watershed Restoration Areas .................................................................. 3-31

9F—Rare Communities ..................................................................................... 3-32

and Mixed Pine-Oak-Hickory Forests ......................................................... 3-37

10B—High Quality Forest Products (Piedmont Only) ...................................... 3-38

11—Riparian Corridors ..................................................................................... 3-39

12A—Remote Backcountry Recreation—Few Roads ...................................... 3-44

Chapter 4 – Management Areas 

Management Area 1—Turkey Creek and Upper Stevens Creek ......................... 4-2

Management Area 2—Chattooga River ............................................................... 4-5

Management Area 3—Blue Ridge Foothills ........................................................ 4-8

Management Area 4—Piedmont ....................................................................... 4-10

Chapter 5 — Implementation 

Interpretation of Desired Condition Percentages of

 Successional Habitat ....................................................................................... 5-1

Monitoring and Evaluation .................................................................................. 5-2
Appendixes 

Appendix A—Relevant Statues, Regulations, Policies and Agreements 

Appendix B—Glossary 

Appendix C—Riparian Corridors 

Appendix D—Suitability for Timber Production and Timber Sale Program 

Appendix E —Monitoring Summary Table 

Appendix F—Possible Outputs and Activities for the First 10 Years (Average Annual) 

Appendix G—Mining Proposal Evaluation Process 

Appendix H—Vegetation Management Practices 

Appendix I—Resource Maps 
Preface

This Revised Land and Resource Management 

Plan (Forest Plan) has been prepared according 

to Secretary of Agriculture regulations (36 CFR 

219) which are based on the Forest and 

Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act 

(RPA) as amended by the National Forest 

Management Act of 1976 (NFMA). The Forest 

Plan has also been developed in accordance with 

regulations (40 CFR 1500) for implementing the 

National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 

(NEPA). A detailed statement (Environmental 

Impact Statement) has been prepared as required 

by NFMA (36 CFR 219.10). The Forest Plan 

represents the selected alternative as identified in 

the Final Environmental Impact Statement for 

the Revised Land and Resource Management 

Plan (FEIS). 

The document is divided into six major parts: 

the “Introduction to the Forest Plan,” “ForestWide Direction,” “Management Prescriptions,” 

“Management Areas,” “Plan Implementation,” 

“Monitoring and Evaluation,” and 

“Appendixes.” 

The “Introduction to the Forest Plan” 

provides background information that places the 

Management Direction into context with other 

management directives or procedures and trends 

occurring on the Sumter National Forest. The 

information includes the purpose of a Forest 

Plan: the decisions made; the relationship of the 

Forest Plan to other important documents that 

also provide management direction; a forest 

description; a summary of the “Analysis of the 

Management Situation” and a summary of the 

significant issues. 

The “Forest-Wide Direction” section provides 

management direction that applies to the entire 

Sumter National Forest. This direction includes 

an introduction that explains how this direction 

was developed and defines goals, objectives and 

standards. Followed by the specific goals, 

objectives and standards. 

The “ Management Prescriptions” section 

provides 27 unique land allocations on the 

Sumter. Within this section, management 

prescriptions are defined. Each prescription 

includes an emphasis, desired condition, 

objectives (if needed) and standards (if needed). 

At the beginning of this section you will find a 

map showing the location of each prescription 

and the acreage. 

The “Management Areas” section provides 

four unique management areas on the Sumter. 

Within this section, the two types of 

management areas are defined. Each 

management area shows existing conditions, 

desired conditions (if applicable), objectives (if 

applicable), acreage of each management 

prescription, and standards (if applicable). 

The “Plan Implementation, Monitoring and 

Evaluation” section includes information on the 

how the Forest Plan will be implemented and 

updated through monitoring and evaluation. 

The “Appendixes” section contains more 

detailed information that may be helpful in 

understanding the Forest Plan. Items such as 

“Laws, Rules, Regulations, Manuals and 

Handbooks,” “Monitoring Tasks,” and 

“Glossary.” 
 Chapter 1 

Introduction to the Forest Plan 

This Sumter National Forest Revised Land and 

Resource Management Plan (Forest Plan) will 

guide all natural resource management activities 

and set management standards for the Sumter 

National Forest for the next 10 to 15 years. 

The National Forest Management Act 

(NFMA), implementing regulations, and other 

documents guided the preparation of this Forest 

Plan. Land-use determinations, management 

practices, goals, objectives, standards, and 

guidelines are statements of the Forest Plan’s 

management direction. Projected yields, services, 

and rate of implementation depend on the annual 

budgeting process. 

This Forest Plan provides broad programlevel direction for management of the land and 

its resources. Future projects carry out the 

direction in this Forest Plan. This Forest Plan 

does not contain a commitment to select any 

specific project. An environmental analysis is 

conducted, when required, on these projects as 

they are proposed.

 In addition to direction found in this Forest 

Plan, projects also are implemented through 

direction found in the Forest Service directive 

system (manuals and handbooks) and other 

guides. (See Chapter 5, “Monitoring, Evaluation, 

Research, and Implementation.”) 

Purpose of the Forest Plan 

The decisions made in the Forest Plan include: 

3⁄4 Forest-wide multiple-use goals, 

objectives, and standards for the forest, 

including estimates of the goods and 

services expected; 

3⁄4 Multiple-use management prescriptions 

and management areas containing desired 

conditions, objectives and standards; 

3⁄4 Land that is suitable for timber

production;

3⁄4 The allowable sale quantity for timber 

and the associated sale schedule; 

3⁄4 Recommended wilderness areas; 

3⁄4 Recommended wild and scenic river 

status; 

3⁄4 Monitoring and evaluation requirements; 

3⁄4 Lands administratively available for 

mineral development (including oil and 

gas). 

Relationship of the Forest Plan to 

Other Documents 

In addition to direction found in this Forest Plan, 

projects are also implemented by direction found 

in laws, rules, regulations, the Forest Service 

directive system (A listing is available in “Appendix A.”); and the following programmatic 

decision documents. 

3⁄4 Record of Decision, Final Environmental 

Impact Statement for the Suppression of 

Southern Pine Beetles (USDA Forest 

Service, Southern Region, April 1987) 

3⁄4 Record of Decision, Final Environmental 

Statement for Gypsy Moth Management 

in the United States: A Cooperative 

1-1
Approach (USDA, Forest Service and 

APHIS, Washington DC, January 1995). 

Plan Structure 

The Forest Plan consists of five chapters, and 

several appendixes. 

Chapter 1 introduces the Forest Plan; explains 

its purpose, structure, and relationship to other 

documents; includes a brief description of the 

forest; and summarizes the issues and analysis of 

the management situation for the revision. 

Chapter 2 contains the forest-wide management 

direction, including, desired conditions, goals, 

objectives, and standards. 

Chapter 3 contains the management 

prescriptions and the specific management 

direction applied at that 

level, including, desired 

conditions, goals, 

objectives, and standards. 

Chapter 4 contains the 

management area 

direction, including, 

desired conditions, goals, 

objectives, and standards. 

Chapter 5 gives 

direction on Forest Plan 

implementation, 

monitoring, and 

evaluation. Appendixes 

provide supplemental 

information about the 

Forest Plan. 

Forest Description

The Sumter National Forest includes about 

360,000 acres of National Forest System land in 

the mountains and piedmont of South Carolina. 

The forest is divided into three ranger districts 

located in 11 counties. The Andrew Pickens 

District is located in northern Oconee County. 

The Enoree District is located east of Interstate 

26 in Chester, Fairfield, Laurens, Newberry, and 

Union Counties. The Long Cane District lies east 

of the Savannah River and J. Strom Thurmond 

Lake in Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, 

McCormick, and Saluda Counties. 

1-2 
Summary of the “Analysis of the 

Management Situation” (AMS) 

The “Analysis of the Management Situation” 

(AMS) for the Sumter National Forest is a 

determination of the forest’s ability to supply 

goods and services in response to society’s 

demand. The AMS provides a basis for 

determining the need for change in the existing 

Forest Plan and for formulating a broad range of 

reasonable alternatives. A draft AMS was 

completed in August 1996. A few important 

findings follow: 

3⁄4 Although water quality continues to improve, 

many of the streams on the national forest are 

listed by the state of South Carolina as 

impaired due to elevated fecal coliform 

levels. 

3⁄4 According to South Carolina’s Department of 

Health and Environmental Control (DHEC), 

no violations of air quality standards have 

occurred on the Sumter National Forest. 

Following existing state guidelines should 

allow increased prescribed burning. 

3⁄4 Within the piedmont, early successional 

forests covered 16.9 percent and late 

successional forest covered 4.7 percent in 

1996. This trend was reversed on the Andrew 

Pickens Ranger District where early 

successional forests covered 6.4 percent and 

late successional forests covered 31 percent 

in 1996. Since 1996 the early successional 

habitat has declined significantly to 5 percent 

on the piedmont and 2 percent on the 

Andrew Pickens in the year 2003. 

3⁄4 Inventory and monitoring have increased our 

knowledge of rare plant distributions, habitat 

requirements, and responses to management. 

The greatest number of rare plant species and 

populations is on the Andrew Pickens Ranger 

District in Oconee County. 

3⁄4 Very little existing old growth occurs on the 

Sumter National Forest. 

3⁄4 Southern pine beetle (SPB) has been the 

focus of the forest’s insect suppression 

efforts from 1985 to present. Activity is 

cyclical with outbreaks occurring in 1988-89, 

1992-93, and 1995-96. Since 1996, 

approximately 78 percent of the forest’s pine 

stands (young, overstocked stands or stands 

greater than 60 years) are at great risk for 

SPB infestation. Another outbreak occurred 

in 2002. 

3⁄4 The hemlock woolly adelgid poses a longterm threat to hemlock on the forest. 

3⁄4 The Sumter National Forest represents a 

small portion of the timber inventory in 

South Carolina, but the quality of the 

material is generally higher than timber 

found on private land. 

3⁄4 Few requests are received for mineral 

exploration or mining operations. 

3⁄4 There were five roadless areas identified in 

the 1985 Forest Plan. The Ellicott Rock 

Extension was recommended for a 

wilderness study area. Long Creek and 

Ellicott Rock Expansion were placed in 

general forest management. The remaining 

two areas were placed in allocations that 

protected their roadless characteristics (i.e., 

scenic areas). 

3⁄4 In 1996, the following streams were 

determined to have outstandingly remarkable 

values and are eligible for possible inclusion 

in the National Wild and Scenic River 

System: Brasstown Creek, Cedar Creek, 

1-3 
Chauga River, Crane Creek, East Fork of the objectives, and desired conditions for the

Chattooga River, Tamassee Creek, Stevens Chattooga River Watershed.

Creek, and Turkey Creek.

3⁄4 Consider insects and disease in developing 

desired conditions and in evaluating 3⁄4 Recreational uses of all kinds increased on alternatives and effects. 

the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River during 

the last 10 years. 3⁄4 Establish goals, objectives, and desired 

conditions for recreational opportunities and 

3⁄4 Since 1996 there has been a growing use/ experiences.

Forest Description demand for OHV trails. 3⁄4 Establish goals, objectives, and desired 

conditions for developing minerals. 

3⁄4 Increased population growth and 

development in all counties is changing the 3⁄4 Define the role of timber production when 

character of the landscape. Continuing developing desired conditions. 

growth and development is reducing the open 

spaces that are now farms, forests, and 3⁄4 Update the Visual Quality Objective system 

pastures. This development may reduce with the Scenery Management System. 

wildlife habitat, change the scenic character 

of the landscape, and increase the wildland/ 3⁄4 Recommend to Congress proposed wilderness 

urban interface concerns. and wild and scenic river designations. 

3⁄4 Many counties are becoming less dependent 

on Forest Service dollars. 

3⁄4 Remove direction from the revised Forest Plan 

that is not decided in the forest planning 

process, such as that included in the directive 

system, national policy, and executive orders. 

3⁄4 The total forest road mileage has slightly 3⁄4 Link forest-wide and management area decreased since 1985 from 1,110 miles to objectives to desired conditions, rather than 1,053 miles. to specific resource output targets. 

A few of the important recommendations derived 3⁄4 Revise the monitoring and evaluation

from the AMS follow: direction to include effectiveness monitoring 

for Forest Plan goals, objectives, and desired 3⁄4 Establish goals, objectives, and desired conditions.

conditions for riparian areas. 

3⁄4 Establish goals, objectives, and desired 

conditions that consider the key elements of 

biodiversity. 

3⁄4 Establish consistent management direction 

across national forest boundaries. 

3⁄4 Coordinate with the Chattahoochee National 

Forest in Georgia and the Nantahala National 

Forest in North Carolina to establish goals, 

1-4 
Summary of the Issues

Public involvement is a key part of the planning 

process. Our goals for public involvement were 

to ensure that all individuals and groups 

interested in or affected by the management of 

the Sumter National Forest had the opportunity 

to be informed and participate in the revision 

process; to reach an informed understanding with 

the public of the varying interest; and to consider 

these interests in developing this Forest Plan.

 Public comments were used to identify the 

direction management should take in the future. 

This management includes goods and services to 

be provided, and environmental conditions. 

Many opportunities were provided for people to 

get involved in the planning process and to 

provide comments. Issues submitted by the 

public, as well as from within the Forest Service, 

guided the need to change current management 

strategies. 

The Notice of Intent to prepare an 

environmental impact statement was published 

in August 1996. In September 1996 scoping 

notification was sent to interested and affected 

members of the public announcing the 120-day 

comment period and associated listening 

sessions. The scoping notification also ask for 

comments on the draft “Analysis of The 

Management Situation.” 

A four-phase process was used to develop 

alternatives. Based on the issues and public 

comments, four preliminary alternatives were 

developed. Public meetings were held 

throughout the state, and comments were 

solicited on the preliminary alternatives. Based 

on these comments, the five Southern 

Appalachian forests (National Forests in 

Alabama, Chattahoochee-Oconee, Cherokee, 

Sumter, and Jefferson) met and developed an 

additional four alternatives. Finally, a “Rolling 

Alternative” was created, based on criteria that 

addressed the Natural Resource Agenda 

(Watershed Health, Recreation, Sustainable 

Forest Ecosystem Management, and Forest 

Roads), Regional Forester’s Emphasis Areas 

(Watershed Health/Water Quality, Habitat for 

Wide-ranging Species, Proposed, Endangered, 

Threatened Species (PETS) Recovery Plans, Old 

Growth, Semi-Primitive Recreation 

Opportunities, Roadless Areas, Special Areas, 

and a consistent approach to determining lands 

suitable for timber production), issues common 

to all five national forests, and the issues unique 

to each of the forests. 

The issues developed for the Sumter National 

Forest follow. Brief explanations of how the 

issue will be addressed in the Forest Plan follow 

each issue statement. For further information, see 

the Final Environmental Impact Statement, 

Chapter 2, “Comparison of Alternatives.” 

1. Terrestrial Plants and Animals and 

their Associated Habitats: How should 

the national forest retain and/or restore a 

diverse mix of terrestrial plant and 

animal habitat conditions while meeting 

public demands for a variety of wildlife 

values and uses?

 Emphasize habitat conditions that are 

suitable for maintaining viable 

populations of all vertebrate species 

native to the planning area. Early 

successional habitats will be created and 

maintained by a variety of events, 

conditions, treatments, and activities. 

2. Threatened, Endangered, and 

Sensitive/Locally-rare Species: What 

levels of management are needed to 

protect and recover the populations of 

federally-listed threatened, endangered, 

and proposed species? What level of 

management is needed for Forest Service 

sensitive and locally rare species?

 Emphasize the inventory, monitoring, 

conservation, and recovery of proposed, 

threatened, endangered, sensitive, and 

locally-rare species or their habitats. 

3. Old Growth: The issue surrounding old 

growth has several facets. How much old 

growth is desired? Where should old 

1-5 
growth occur? How should old growth be 

managed?

 Provide areas where old growth forest 

conditions are developed over time. 

Protect existing old growth. 

4. Riparian Area Management, Water 

Quality, and Aquatic Habitats: What 

are the desired riparian ecosystem 

conditions within national forests, and 

how will they be identified, maintained, 

and/or restored? What management 

direction is needed to help ensure that the 

hydrologic conditions needed for the 

beneficial uses of water yielded by and 

flowing through national forest system 

lands are attained? What management is 

needed for the maintenance, 

enhancement, or restoration of aquatic 

habitats?

 Healthy watersheds will be 

maintained, and degraded watersheds 

will be restored to maintain or improve 

water quality and aquatic habitats. 

Riparian ecosystems will be essentially 

unchanged, except for those actions 

needed to restore riparian vegetative 

cover and riparian functions and values. 

5. Wood Products: The issue surrounding 

the sustained yield production of wood 

products from national forests has several 

facets. What are the appropriate 

objectives for wood product 

management? Where should products be 

removed, given that this production is 

part of a set of multiple-use objectives 

and considering cost effectiveness? 

What should the level of outputs of wood 

products be? What management 

activities associated with the production 

of wood products are appropriate?

 Restore and maintain desired 

conditions and goals, which produce a 

stable supply of a variety of wood 

products including high quality 

sawtimber on the piedmont. 

6. Aesthetic/Scenery Management: The 

issue surrounding the management of 

visual quality has two facets. What are 

the appropriate landscape character goals 

for the national forest? What should be 

the scenic integrity objectives for the 

national forest?

 National forest landscapes have a 

natural appearing or natural evolving 

character and are managed to maintain or 

enhance their scenic integrity. 

7. Recreation Opportunities/Experiences: 

This issue includes considering a full 

range of opportunities for developed and 

dispersed recreational activities 

(including such things as nature study, 

hunting and fishing activities, and trail 

uses). How should the increasing demand 

for recreational opportunities and 

experiences be addressed on the national 

forest while protecting forest resources? 

Should the forest restrict equestrian use 

to designated routes only?

 Provide a spectrum of high quality, 

nature-based recreational settings and 

opportunities, within the capabilities of 

the land, which are not widely available 

on non-federal lands. 

8. Roadless Areas/Wilderness 

Management: Should any of the roadless 

areas on national forest system lands be 

recommended for wilderness 

designation? How should roadless areas 

not recommended for wilderness be 

managed? How should areas 

recommended for wilderness designation 

be managed? How should the patterns 

and intensity of use, fire, and insects and 

diseases be managed in the existing 

wilderness areas? 

Wilderness and roadless areas are 

managed to provide their full range of 

social and ecological benefits. 

1-6 
9. Forest Health: What conditions are 

needed to maintain the ability of the 

forest to function in a sustainable manner 

as expected or desired? Of particular 

concern are the impacts of non-native 

species and the presence of ecological 

conditions with a higher level of insect 

and disease susceptibility.

 Restore and maintain forest 

ecosystems to provide the desired 

composition, structure, function, and 

productivity of those ecosystems over 

time. 

10. Special Areas and Rare Communities: 

What special areas should be designated, 

and how should they be managed? How 

should rare communities, such as those 

identified in the Southern Appalachian 

Assessment, be managed?

 Protect and restore all existing special 

areas and rare communities. 

11. Wild and Scenic Rivers:Which rivers 

are suitable for designation into the 

National Wild and Scenic River System? 

How should rivers that are eligible, but 

not suitable, be managed?

 Manage all existing, recommended, 

and eligible rivers to protect their 

outstandingly remarkable values. 

12. Access/Road Management: How do we 

balance the rights of citizens to access 

their national forest with our 

responsibilities to protect and manage the 

soil and water resources, wildlife 

populations and habitat, aesthetics, forest 

health, and desired vegetative conditions?

 Provide the minimum transportation 

system that would supply and improve 

access for forest road users while 

protecting forest resources. 

13. Chattooga River Watershed: How can 

the national forests manage the 

Chattooga River watershed for desired 

social and ecological benefits while 

protecting the outstanding values of the 

Chattooga Wild and Scenic River 

corridor? Should the Chattooga River be 

opened or closed to public boating above 

Highway 28? 

The Chattooga River watershed will 

be managed to emphasize recreation in 

association with the Chattooga Wild and 

Scenic River corridor; maintenance of 

roadless values; dispersed recreational 

opportunities; and improved water 

quality. Boating on the Chattooga is not 

allowed above the Highway 28 Bridge. 

14. Minerals: What type of restrictions 

should we place on mineral 

development?

 Mineral exploration or development 

will be compatible with the desired 

condition of the appropriate management 

prescriptions or management areas. 

The issues are further addressed in a variety 

of ways throughout this Forest Plan. Those ways 

include goals, objectives, standards, management 

prescriptions, management areas, and 

monitoring. 

1-7 
Chapter 2 

Forest-Wide Direction 

The Forest Plan is a strategic document 

providing land allocations, goals, objectives, 

desired conditions, and standards that must be 

met. This chapter outlines the overall 

management direction for the Sumter National 

Forest within the context of the southern 

Appalachian and piedmont ecosystems. This 

direction is organized around the physical, 

biological, and social resources of the Sumter, as 

well as the major issues identified by the citizens 

who helped develop this Forest Plan. 

Each resource includes broad goal statements 

describing what we want to achieve. Objectives 

are concise statements, describing a specific 

result or condition desired to contribute toward 

achieving a goal. Objectives express measurable 

steps we will take over the next 10 years to 

achieve our goals and may be accomplished by 

maintaining a desired condition or by 

implementing a project or activity. Not all goals 

require quantifiable objectives. Objectives are 

linked to the monitoring plan. 

While goals and objectives define where we 

are headed with management of the Sumter 

National Forest, standards define the rules we 

will follow to get there. Standards provide 

management direction for making decisions, 

which help achieve the forest’s desired 

conditions, goals, and objectives. Standards are 

specific technical resource management 

directions and often preclude or impose 

limitations on management activities or resource 

uses, generally to protect the environment, to 

provide public safety, or to resolve an issue. 

Deviation from a standard requires a Forest Plan 

amendment. Adherence to Forest Plan standards 

is monitored during project implementation. In 

addition to following standards, the Sumter is 

required to comply with applicable laws, 

executive orders, and regulations listed in 

Appendix A.

 Forest-wide goals, objectives, and standards 

apply to the entire forest unless superseded by 

specific management prescription direction. 

Objectives and standards may also be found at 

the management area and management 

prescription level. Projects are evaluated to 

determine if they are consistent with the 

management direction in the Forest Plan. This 

evaluation is documented in the project-level 

environmental document with a finding of 

consistency incorporated into the decision 

document. 

While this direction was being developed, the 

forest identified some additional items that 

would not qualify as Forest Plan direction but 

are important for later plan implementation. 

Any decisions on projects to implement the 

Forest Plan are based on site-specific analysis in 

compliance with the National Environmental 

Policy Act (NEPA). This environmental analysis 

is appropriately documented based on direction 

in the Council on Environmental Quality 

Regulations For Implementing the Procedural 

Provisions of the National Environmental Policy 

Act (40 CFR Parts 1500-1508) and the 

Environmental Policy and Procedures Handbook 

(Forest Service Handbook [FSH] 1909.15). 

Riparian Area Management, 

Water Quality, Aquatic Habitats, 

Soil, and Air 

In 1911, Congress authorized and directed the 

Secretary of Agriculture “...to examine, locate, 

and purchase such forested, cut-over, or denuded 

lands within the watersheds of navigable streams 

as in his judgment may be necessary to the 

regulation of the flow of navigable streams or 

for the production of timber,” through the Weeks 

2-1 
Law. In 1936, as a result of this Act, the Sumter 

National Forest was established from these 

lands. Once established, the process of natural 

and managed restoration of those lands began. 

Erosion control projects, tree planting, and fire 

prevention and control are examples of 

management actions began to assist in 

restorating and protecting the natural forestland 

and resources. However, even with restoration 

efforts, past land abuses have left a legacy on the 

landscape of substantial areas with affected soils 

and streams that are still adjusting and needing 

improvement after many decades.

 Soil and water conservation measures are 

necessary to maintain or improve many of the 

physical, chemical, and biological conditions on 

the national forest. Soil properties affect the 

processing of rainfall into streamflow and 

provide the basic elements from which plant and 

animal life exist. Streamflow maintains aquatic 

life, stream channel capacity, recreation, 

aesthetics, navigable waters, and favorable flow 

conditions. 

Although water quality continues to improve, 

many of the streams on the Sumter remain 

impaired or impacted as identified by SC 

Department of Health and Environmental 

Control or the Environmental Protection Agency. 

Physical, chemical, and biological decline 

contribute in considerations of whether waters 

are listed as impaired. Fecal coliform, sediment 

or other water quality conditions caused by past 

or current activities contribute to impairment. 

Sedimentation in the Chattooga River is an 

example of how many activities influence water 

quality (Van Lear et. al., 1995). Past land abuses 

are often slow to recover. Some poorly located 

and maintained roads may contribute to 

impairment of water quality. Other contributors 

include industrial, agricultural, and silvicultural 

practices, land development, and other activities. 

The Forest Service is responding to water 

quality concerns. Roads are stabilized and/or 

improved, and active gullies are treated. Some 

dispersed recreational sites within riparian areas 

within the Chattooga and Chauga River 

watersheds have been treated to reduce soil and 

water impacts. Actively eroding gullies and 

galled barrens are stabilized or restored to 

conditions where they are vegetated and 

functioning within the acceptable range of 

desired conditions. All activities on the Sumter 

meet or exceed state requirements for Best 

Management Practices (BMP). Where BMP 

have not been formally identified, similar 

measures are applied to protect soil and water 

resources from unacceptable impacts associated 

with soil exposure and surface disturbance. 

Practices protect soil productivity and are 

consistent with soil quality monitoring direction. 

Watersheds with critical aquatic habitats, wild 

and scenic rivers, municipal water sources, and 

those on the state water quality impaired list will 

be given priority consideration for providing 

technical, cooperative, and financial assistance 

when conditions on private lands that prevent 

achieving desired conditions on the national 

forest. 

The primary purpose of the channeled 

ephemeral stream zone is to maintain the ability 

of the land areas to filter sediment from upslope 

disturbances while achieving the goals of the 

adjacent management prescription area. In 

addition, the emphasis along ephemeral streams 

is to maintain stream stability and sediment 

controls by minimizing soil exposure or 

disturbance. See “Standard for Channeled 

Ephermeral Streams.”

 Productive soils are critical to the growth and 

health of fauna and flora. The soils on the 

Sumter National Forest vary from the piedmont 

and mountain topographic regions. The 

piedmont soils are formed from crystalline 

rocks, mixed acid rocks, micaceous rocks, and 

Carolina slates. The mountain soils are formed 

from colluvial materials weathered from gneiss, 

schist rock, and granite materials. The piedmont 

has 63 soil-mapping units and the mountains 

have 22 soil-mapping units. Mapping units have 

at least 50 percent of a primary soil series.

 Soils of the piedmont include gently to 

steeply rolling hills, many of which have been 

severely eroded by past farming activities. Past 

degradation of many of these soils by erosion, 

2-2 
loss of infiltration capacity and depletion of 

nutrients has resulted in poor soil productivity 

(Hoover, 1949). Gullies formed in some areas. 

Some of this land that became the Sumter 

(Shands and Healy (1977). Some gullies, galls, 

and bare soil areas still exist on the Sumter and 

surrounding lands. Almost all of the piedmont 

surface soils have been eroded to some extent, 

averaging nearly a foot of surface soil lost, 

leaving fewer than 2 inches of soil surface on 

most of the landscapes. These areas require 

some type of treatment to improve soil 

productivity (McKee and Law, 1985). Efforts to 

reduce the effects of the gullies and severe 

erosion that began with the Civilian 

Conservation Corps in the 1930s were expanded 

in the 1980s and continue (Heede, 1976, Yoho, 

1980, Schumm, et. al., 1984, Hansen, 1991, 

1995, Hansen and Law, 1996).

 Soil and water improvement measures are 

designed to address active severe erosion from 

gullies, abandoned roads, stream banks, or other 

sources. A combination of soil bioengineering, 

erosion control, stabilization and restoration 

measures appropriate for the landscape position 

result in a marked reduction in soil loss, erosion 

and sedimentation. Results improve poor or 

declining soil properties, water quality, 

watershed condition, riparian and/or aquatic 

habitats. Mitigation measures to limit the 

temporary effects of treatments are installed to 

produce rapid erosion control, permanent cover, 

and site recovery. Limiting sedimentation and 

improving soil properties are emphasized.

 Cultivated or disked areas for wildlife 

openings or linear wildlife strips will prevent the 

concentrated flow, rill networks, erosion, and 

sedimentation. When necessary, alternating 

vegetated strips will be left on the contour to 

deter soil loss. Soil loss will be held to 

acceptable soil quality guides. 

Active areas of ground disturbance will be 

limited in extent and duration within stream 

drainages to reduce the potential for direct, 

indirect, and cumulative effects caused by 

excessive changes in runoff, erosion, 

streamflow, sediment, and channel adjustment 

due to soil disturbance and vegetation change. 

Air quality is another important element to 

consider for healthy forest resources.. Sulfur 

compounds in the atmosphere are primarily 

responsible for the haze that obscures visibility. 

Sulfur compounds and sometimes nitrogen 

compounds can cause acidification of headwater 

streams and cause nutrients to leach out of soils. 

Ozone causes visible injury to plant leaves, and 

can also cause reduced plant growth. The 

pollutants originate from many sources over a 

wide geographic area. Therefore, regional 

approaches to air pollution emission reductions 

are necessary to improve air quality and resource 

conditions. It is essential that the Sumter work 

cooperatively with air management agencies and 

Regional Planning Organizations (VISTAS) to 

reduce air pollution impacts to resources, and to 

minimize the Sumter’s impacts to air quality. 

Goals and Objectives 

Goal 1 Watersheds are managed (and where 

necessary restored) to provide resilient and 

stable conditions to ensure the quality and 

quantity of water necessary to protect ecological 

functions and support intended beneficial water 

uses. 

Objective 1.01 Improve soil and water 

conditions on 1,500 acres through 

stabilization or rehabilitation of actively 

eroding areas such as gullies, barren 

areas, abandoned roads or trails, and 

unstable stream banks over the 10-year 

planning period. 

Goal 2 Manage in-stream flows and water 

levels, by working with other agencies if 

possible, to protect stream processes, aquatic and 

riparian habitats and communities, and 

recreation and aesthetic values. 

Objective 2.01 The in-stream flows 

needed to protect stream processes, 

aquatic and riparian habitats and 

2-3 
communities, and recreation and 

aesthetic values will be determined on 50 

streams. 

Goal 3 Riparian ecosystems, wetlands, and 

aquatic systems are managed (and where 

necessary restored) to protect and maintain their 

physical, chemical, and biological integrity. 

Goal 4 Maintain or restore natural aquatic and 

riparian communities or habitat conditions in 

amounts, arrangements, and conditions to 

provide suitable habitats for riparian dependent 

and migratory species, especially aquatic species 

including fish, amphibians, and water birds 

within the planning area. Perennial and 

intermittent streams are managed in a manner 

that emphasizes and recruits large woody debris 

(LWD). 

Objective 4.01 Create and maintain 

dense understory of native vegetation on 

1 to 5 percent of the total riparian 

corridor acreage during the 10-year 

planning period. 

Goal 5 Maintain or restore soil productivity and 

quality. 

Objective 5.01 Improve soil productivity 

on 8,000 acres of disturbed, low 

productivity, eroded soils with loblolly 

and shortleaf pine on the piedmont 

during the 10-year planning period. 

Goal 6 Cooperate with landowners and other 

partners to address watershed needs and 

participate in efforts to identify stream problems, 

watershed planning, BMP and Total Mean Daily 

Load (TMDL) implementation with the South 

Carolina Department of Health and 

Environmental Control, South Carolina Forestry 

Commission and other agencies. 

Goal 7 Provide good air quality for people’s 

health and the health of the forest environment. 

Standards 

Water and Soil Quality 

FW-1 Water quality, soil productivity, and 

channel structure are protected using best 

management practices to avoid impacts to water 

quality and soils. Where riparian prescription 

direction differs from BMP, the more restrictive 

or protective prescription will be followed. Seed 

mixtures and the removal of large woody debris 

added by harvest activities suggested in the state 

BMP for Forestry may not be followed when 

they conflict with native vegetation and aquatic 

habitat objectives. 

FW-2 Where BMP are not specifically 

developed for activities, apply similar preventive 

measures such as those published by the SC 

Forestry Commission concerning forestry which 

avoid, minimize and/or mitigate effects to water 

quality, streamside management zones and soils. 

FW-3 Major soil disturbances that expose the 

soil surface or substantially alter soil properties 

such as temporary roads, skid trails, landings, 

and rutting will not occupy more than 15 percent 

of forest vegetation management treatment areas 

except for chopping, watershed improvements, 

or other treatments during a rotation designed to 

reforest to suitable species or correct soil and 

water problems. 

FW-4 To limit soil and water quality impacts, 

heavy mechanical equipment (dozers, skidders, 

feller/bunchers, etc.) will not be used on slopes 

over 40 percent except in designated locations 

with adequate and timely mitigation. Emergency 

fire lines and soil and water improvements 

specifically designed to stabilize or rehabilitate 

severe erosion such as active gullies are 

exceptions to this slope limit. 

FW-5 Water is not diverted from streams 

(perennial or intermittent) or lakes when an instream flow needs or water level assessment 

indicates the diversion would adversely affect 

2-4 
protection of stream processes, aquatic and 

riparian habitats and communities, or recreation 

and aesthetic values. 

Channeled Ephemeral Stream Zones 

The following standards apply to 25 feet on each 

side of a channeled ephemeral stream. See the 

Glossary, Appendix B, for a definition of a 

channeled ephemeral stream. 

FW-6 Skidders will only be allowed within the 

channels at designated crossings. 

FW-7 For cable logging, at least partial 

suspension is required when yarding logs over 

ephemeral streams. 

FW-8 Skid trail crossings will be located in a 

manner that minimizes stream channel and bank 

disturbance. 

FW-9 Fire lines are not constructed along the 

length of stream channels. 

FW-10 New motorized trails are prohibited 

within ephemeral stream zones except at 

designated crossings or where the trail location 

requires some encroachment, for example, to 

accommodate steep terrain. 

FW-11 Stabilize disturbed soils at channel 

crossings. 

FW-12 New mineral, oil, and gas leases will 

contain a controlled surface use stipulation for 

channeled ephemeral stream zones. 

FW-13 Removing large woody debris from 

within the channeled ephemeral stream zone is 

allowed if the woody debris poses a significant 

risk to stream flow or water quality, degrades 

habitat for riparian dependent species, or poses a 

threat to private property or National Forest 

infrastructure (e.g., bridges). The need for 

removal is determined on a case-by-case basis. 

When needed to protect water quality, excessive 

small woody debris (logging slash) should be 

removed when its entry is a result of activities. 

FW-14 Trees and native vegetation on the 

stream bank should not be removed except at 

designated crossings. 

FW-15 Soil active herbicides are not broadcast 

within channeled ephemeral stream zones. 

Stream zones are identified before treatment, so 

applicators can easily avoid them. 

FW-16 Pesticide mixing, loading, or cleaning 

areas are not located within the channeled 

ephemeral stream zone. 

Air Quality 

FW-17 Comply with South Carolina smoke 

management guidelines and Forest Service 

Region 8 smoke management guidelines. 

Wildlife Habitat and Forest 

Vegetation 

The Sumter National Forest lies within both the 

Blue Ridge and the piedmont physiographic 

provinces, where variations in elevation lead to 

differences in the vegetation that grows there. 

The Andrew Pickens Ranger District is located 

along the Blue Ridge. There is a mixture of 

shortleaf pine with various hardwoods on low 

elevation ridges and south-facing slopes. Pitch 

pine and table mountain pine are found on high 

ridges. Mesic oak-hickory forests are found on 

lower and north-facing slopes. Mixed 

mesophytic and white pine–hemlock forests are 

located in forested coves. 

The Long Cane and Enoree Ranger Districts, 

in the piedmont, are predominantly loblolly pine 

forests interspersed with patches of upland 

hardwoods, including sweetgum, white oak, 

southern red oak, hickories, yellow-poplar, red 

maple, and various other oaks. Bottomland 

2-5 
hardwoods along streams dissect these upland 

forests. 

Vegetation on the Sumter National Forest has 

been greatly modified by human activity over the 

last 200 years (Bates, 1993; Barden, 1997; Platt 

and Brantley, 1997; Frost, 2002). When the 

Sumter National Forest was established in 1936, 

it was comprised primarily of abandoned 

farmland. Early European explorers, beginning 

with Hernando DeSoto’s 1540 expedition, found 

fire-maintained prairies, savannas, and 

woodlands in the uplands, created and 

maintained by the Native Americans who had 

occupied the land for at least 12,000 years. 

Shortleaf pine (Pinus echinata), warm-season 

grasses, and hardwoods dominated the uplands, 

and the bottomlands were mosaics dominated by 

bottomland hardwoods, loblolly pine 

(Pinus taeda), canebrakes, beaver ponds, 

beaver marshes, and successional thickets. 

Land clearing, and intensive cultivation, 

primarily in cotton, lasted from the late 

1700s through the early 1900s followed by 

extensive planting of loblolly pine, initially 

by the Civilian Conservation Corps. During 

the 1960s, loblolly pine largely replaced the 

native shortleaf pine forests on the 

piedmont, since many of the existing 

shortleaf pine stands were susceptible to 

littleleaf disease, which is prevalent on 

severely eroded clay soils (Oak and Tainter, 

1988). National forest management 

activities have perpetuated the loblolly pine 

forests we see today. 

The Sumter National Forest is charged 

with creating and maintaining habitat 

conditions suitable to maintain viable 

populations of all species native to the 

planning area, and where appropriate 

support desirable levels of selected species. 

National Forest Management Act 

regulations, adopted in 1982, require 

selection of management indicator species 

(MIS) during development of forest plans 

(36 CFR 219.19(a)). Thirteen species have 

been selected as MIS for the Sumter 

National Forest. They will be used in 

conjunction with other identified management 

indicators described in chapter 3 of the FEIS 

(“Biological Elements” section), and other 

Forest Plan monitoring items to assess effects of 

alternatives and to help monitor effects of 

implementing the selected alternative. The MIS 

selected and their related objectives can be 

found in Chapter 5. 

As shown in Table 2-1, mixes of 

management prescriptions are allocated to 

provide for a variety of habitat conditions. The 

following goals, objectives and standards are 

designed to protect, restore, maintain, and 

enhance wildlife and plant populations and 

communities while maintaining flexibility to 

manage other resources. 

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Goals and Objectives 

Goal 8 Maintain and restore natural 

communities and habitats in amounts, 

arrangements, and conditions capable of 

supporting viable populations of existing native 

and desired non-native plants, aquatic, and 

wildlife species within the planning area. 

Objective 8.01 Restore 2,000 – 6,000 

acres of native communities on sites 

occupied by loblolly pine on the Andrew 

Pickens District over the 10-year 

planning period. 

Objective 8.02 Provide 8,000 – 11,000 

acres of woodlands in the piedmont and 

4,000 – 5,000 acres of woodlands on the 

mountains on dry-xeric sites in 

woodland, savanna, open grassland, or 

shrubland conditions with fire associated 

rare communities preferred over the 10­

year planning period. 

Objective 8.03 Create conditions to 

restore dry-mesic oak, oak-pine, and 

pine-oak forest communities on 20,000 

acres currently in loblolly pine in the 

piedmont over the 10-year planning 

period. 

Objective 8.04 Increase shortleaf pine 

and shortleaf pine/oak communities on 

2,000 to 10,000 in the piedmont. This 

will be done on sites with low risk of 

littleleaf disease. 

Objective 8.05 Increase structural 

diversity by creating canopy gaps in 1 to 

5 percent of closed canopy mid- and latesuccessional mesic deciduous forest 

(including mixed mesophytic and mesic 

oak forests). Gaps are defined as small 

openings smaller than 2 acres in size and 

are designated to release mast producing 

species, particularly hard mast (oak, 

hickory, walnuts, etc.) and soft mast 

bearing trees (cherry, black gum, 

persimmon, etc.) over the 10-year 

planning period.

 Objective 8.06 Restore more diverse 

native communities on 1,000 to 2,000 

acres currently occupied by white pine 

stands. Prioritize xeric to intermediate 

sites over the 10-year planning period. 

Goal 9 Provide habitats to sustain the diversity 

and distribution of resident reptile and 

amphibian species as well as breeding, 

wintering, and migration staging and stopover 

habitat for migratory birds in ways that 

contributes to their long-term conservation. 

Objective 9.01 Construct or restore 

wetlands on 600 acres in the riparian 

corridor on the piedmont over the 10­

year planning period. 

Standards 

FW-18 Standing snags, bird peck trees, and 

living den trees will not be cut or bulldozed 

during vegetation management treatments 

unrelated to timber regeneration treatments, 

unless necessary to provide for public or 

employee safety. 

FW-19 Forests dominated by eastern hemlock 

are not subject to regeneration harvest during 

this planning period. 

FW-20 During silvicultural treatments in all 

forest types, patches of hemlock greater than 

0.25 acres are retained.

FW-21 Oak forests on mesic sites are not 

converted to pine forests. 

FW-22 For all timber regeneration treatments, 

including salvage activities, two or more snags 

per acre from the larger size classes will be 

2-7 
retained. Live den trees will not be cut unless 

necessary to provide for public or employee 

safety. Distribution of retained snags may be 

clumped. 

FW-23 On the Andrew Pickens, potential black 

bear den trees will be retained during all 

vegetation management treatments occurring in 

habitats suitable for bears. Potential den trees are 

those that are greater than 20” diameter at breast 

height (DBH) and are hollow with broken tops. 

FW-24 In the piedmont, hardwood inclusions 

(1/2 acre in size or larger) in pine stands 

dominated by hard and soft mast producing trees 

(i.e., oaks, hickories, walnut, black gum, black 

cherry, persimmon) will be retained. 

Proposed, Endangered, 

Threatened, Sensitive, (PETS) and 

Locally-rare species 

The Sumter National Forest provides habitat for 

several federally proposed, endangered, or 

threatened species, Forest Service sensitive 

species (PETS), and locally rare species. The 

federally proposed, endangered, or threatened 

species listed in Table 2-2 were identified 

through coordination and consultation with the 

USDI Fish and Wildlife Service. See Appendix 

E of the FEIS (“Biological Assessment/ 

Biological Evaluation”) for a complete listing of 

all PETS and their habitats, and Appendix F in 

the FEIS for a complete listing of all viability 

concern species and their habitats, including 

PETS and locally rare species.

 Habitats for all PETS and locally rare species 

are provided through forest-wide goals, 

objectives, and standards recommended below, 

and emphasized in forest-wide, management 

prescription, and management area-wide 

direction associated with rare communities, 

riparian areas, and forest communities. The 

Sumter follows recovery plans for all federallyendangered and threatened species, when 

available. All PETS receive additional 

consideration in biological evaluations/ 

assessments prepared during project-level 

planning. 

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Goals and Objectives 

Goal 10 Contribute to the conservation and 

recovery of federally-listed species and take 

necessary actions to maintain viable populations 

of all species thereby avoiding the need to list 

those species. 

Objective 10.01 Maintain or restore at 

least 8 self-sustaining populations for 

smooth coneflower and if possible, given 

the technical expertise, 4 populations for 

small whorled pogonia on the Andrew 

Pickens, including the habitat to support 

them. 

Objective 10.02 Maintain or restore at 

least 8 self-sustaining populations for 

Georgia aster (Symphyotrichum 

georgianum) and 1 population for 

Florida gooseberry on the piedmont 

districts, and the habitat to support them. 

Standards 

FW-25 Permits for the collection of listed 

Regional Forester’s sensitive species are not 

issued, except for approved scientific purposes 

or propagation. 

FW-26 Where forest uses are negatively 

affecting federally-listed species, or species 

where viability is a concern, sites or uses are 

modified to reduce or eliminate negative 

impacts. 

FW-27 Non-native species are controlled where 

they are causing adverse effects to federallylisted species, or species where viability is a 

concern. Non-native invasive species are not 

intentionally introduced near these species or 

individuals. 

FW-28 Protection zones are delineated and 

maintained around all bald eagle nests and 

communal roost sites, until they are determined 

to be no longer suitable through coordination 

with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The 

protection zone extends a minimum of 1,500 

feet from the nest or roost. Activities that modify 

the forest canopy within this zone are prohibited. 

All management activities not associated with 

bald eagle management and monitoring are 

prohibited within this zone during periods of use 

(nesting season is October 1 to June 15; roost 

use periods are determined through site-specific 

monitoring). Where controlled by the Forest 

Service, public access routes into or through this 

zone are closed during the seasons of use, unless 

they are major arterial roads. 

FW-29 In artificial impoundments used by 

foraging wood storks, water levels are managed 

to provide for and encourage annual use by this 

species. 

Special Areas, Rare Communities 

And Old Growth 

Special areas on the Sumter include those with 

botanical zoological characteristics, and scenic 

areas. Following an evaluation, special areas are 

allocated to specific prescriptions 4.D. 

(Botanical Zoological Area) and 4.F. (Scenic 

Area).

 Rare communities are assemblages of plants 

and animals that occupy a small proportion of 

the landscape but contribute significantly to 

plant and animal diversity. The list of plant and 

animal communities considered rare within the 

southern Appalachian and piedmont forests 

undergoing forest plan revision were identified 

by the Southern Appalachian Assessment and 

refined using the International Classification of 

Ecological Communities (NatureServe, 2001). 

The following groups of rare communities are 

recognized as occurring on the Sumter National 

Forest. 

3⁄4 Bogs, Seeps, and Seasonal Ponds 

3⁄4 Riverine Vegetation 

3⁄4 Table Mountain Pine Forest and 

Woodlands 

2-9 
3⁄4 Basic Mesic Forests 

3⁄4 Cliffs and Bluffs 

3⁄4 Rock Outcrops 

3⁄4 Glades, Barrens, and Associated 

Woodlands

3⁄4 Canebrakes

3⁄4 Mines

 Conditions to promote old growth forest 

development are needed to address various 

social, biological, recreational, and spiritual 

issues in South Carolina. Theforest will adhere 

to the “Guidance for Conserving and Restoring 

Old Growth Forest Communities on National 

Forests in the Southern Region” (1997), in 

defining old growth community types on the 

forest, and in describing inventory and 

monitoring needs. To date, few old growth 

inventories have been conducted on the Sumter, 

though very little existing old growth is thought 

to occur here, particularly on the piedmont 

districts (Jones, 1988; Carlson, 1995; White and 

Lloyd, 1998). Paul Carlson assessed the old 

growth forest resource on National Forest lands 

in the Chattooga watershed, and found 4 percent 

(of a total 122,000 acres) in existing old growth.

 Consistent with the old growth guidance, a 

possible old growth inventory was developed for 

the Sumter National Forest in 1997, and rerun in 

2002. It was considered in prescriptions 

allocation in this Forest Plan. This Forest Plan 

will provide conditionsto develop a network of 

small, medium, and large patches of future old 

growth, through prescriptions which are 

“unsuitable for timber production,” including 

wilderness, wild and scenic rivers, special areas, 

old growth, dispersed recreation (unsuitable), 

remote backcountry recreation, riparian 

corridors, and rare communities. Additional 

small patches of existing old growth (10-100 

acres in size) will be identified through 

sitespecific surveys, and will be protected. 

The old growth report contains operational 

definitions for 16 old growth community types, 

of which 8 occur or have the potential to occur 

on the Sumter National Forest, including the 

following: 

3⁄4 Conifer-Northern Hardwood Forest 

3⁄4 Mixed Mesophytic Forest 

3⁄4 River Floodplain Hardwood Forest 

3⁄4 Dry-Mesic Oak Forest 

3⁄4 Dry and Xeric Oak Forest, Woodland, 

and Savanna 

3⁄4 Xeric Pine and Pine-Oak Forest and 

Woodland 

3⁄4 Dry and Dry-Mesic Oak-Pine Forest 

3⁄4 Eastern Riverfront Forest 

Goals and Objectives 

Goal 11 Those areas with special scenic, 

botanical, and/or zoological characteristics will 

be managed to protect those characteristics. 

Goal 12 Protect or restore the rare communities 

found on national forest lands. 

Objective 12.01 Restore 500 to 2,500 

acres of table mountain pine forest over 

the 10-year planning period. 

Objective12.02 In the piedmont, restore 

1 to 5 percent of the riparian corridor on 

slopes less than 8 percent into the 

canebrake community over the 10-year 

planning period. 

Goal 13 A variety of large, medium, and small 

old growth patches will be managed (through 

restoration, protection, or maintenance activities) 

to meet biological and social needs. 

Standards 

Rare Communities 

FW-30 Rare communities as described in this 

Forest Plan are managed under the Rare 

Community Prescription (9.F.) wherever they 

occur. 

2-10 
FW-31 Project areas are surveyed for rare 

communities before implementing projects that 

have potential to adversely affect them. 

FW-32 Table mountain pine will not be cut 

during vegetation management activities to 

maintain future restoration opportunities. 

Exceptions may be made where needed to 

provide for public safety, protection of private 

resources, or insect and disease control/ 

prevention or where needed to improve the 

habitat for PETS species. 

Old Growth 

FW-33 Existing old growth as defined in “Old 

Growth Guidance for the Southern Region,” 

when encountered, will be managed to protect 

the old growth characteristics. 

Forest Health 

Insect and disease organisms are important 

components of forest ecosystems. Native 

organisms contribute to many ecological 

processes of forests including nutrient cycling, 

plant succession, and forest dynamics. In most 

cases, these native organisms are recognized as 

an integral component of forest health. In a few 

instances, however, these organisms cause 

unacceptable resource damage or loss, and 

adversely affect ecological, economic, or social 

values. In these cases, the organisms causing the 

damage are referred to as pests. Principal native 

insect pests on the Sumter National Forest 

include the southern pine beetle and a variety of 

defoliators. Primary native disease problems 

include oak decline, annosum root disease, and a 

variety of other decay organisms affecting living 

trees. 

Throughout the past 100 years, a variety of 

insects, diseases, and plant species have been 

introduced to the United States and spread into 

the Sumter National Forest. These non-native 

organisms are often pests because they often 

have no natural enemies or other naturally 

controlling agent, and their unchecked spread 

can wreak untold damage to native ecosystems 

and forest communities. Chestnut blight has 

reduced the American chestnut from the 

dominant hardwood tree species in the 

mountains to a minor understory component of 

today’s forests. Other important non-native pests 

include hemlock wooly adelgid, littleleaf 

disease, butternut canker, and dogwood 

anthracnose. Gypsy moth will probably reach the 

Sumter within the next few decades.

 INon-native invasive plant species can 

spread into and persist in native plant 

communities and displace native plant species, 

posing a threat to the integrity of the natural 

plant communities. Some of the non-native 

invasive plants known to severely impact native 

plant diversity on the Sumter National Forest 

include Japanese and Chinese privet (Ligustrum 

spp.), kudzu (Pueraria lobata), sericea lespedeza 

(Lespedeza cuneata), Japanese honeysuckle 

(Lonicera japonicum), Chinese wisteria, 

(Wisteria sinensis), Japanese stiltgrass 

(Microstegium vimineum), tree of heaven 

(Ailanthus altissima), autumn olive (Elaeagus 

umbellata), multiflora rose (Rosa mulitflora), 

mimosa (Albizia julibrissin,) and China Berry 

(Melia azedarach). 

The high percentage of relatively older (age 

70-120) forest communities in the mountains 

poses challenges in addressing forest health 

issues. These large areas of mature forests are 

particularly vulnerable to both native and nonnative forest pests. Oak decline is a primary 

concern in mature oak forests. In the piedmont, 

the Sumter National Forest has large acreages of 

loblolly pine that are mature, making them more 

susceptible to littleleaf disease, and southern 

pine beetle.

 In 2002, the Sumter experienced a southern 

pine beetle (SPB) epidemic, resulting in 

substantial mortality to pines. SPB infestations 

have grown especially fast in dense forests. 

Higher stand densities make pine stands much 

more susceptible to SPB attack. This fact points 

to the need for maintaining these stands at 

moderate densities. 

2-11 
Pitch pine (Pinus rigida), shortleaf pine (Pinus 

echinata), and table mountain pine (Pinus 

pungeus) are declining in abundance throughout 

the southern Appalachian mountains because of 

age, southern pine beetle outbreaks, lack of fire, 

and limited amounts of disturbance.

 Fire has historically played an important role 

in shaping the species composition of the Sumter 

National Forest. Historically, relatively frequent 

fires have maintained and restored many 

forested communities across the piedmont and 

southern Appalachians, especially xeric pine and 

pine-oak forest; dry and xeric oak forests; and 

dry and dry to mesic pine-oak forests. Without 

fire or other vegetation management actions that 

approximate fire’s effects, many communities 

may show dramatic reductions in distribution 

and/or abundance in future years and shift 

towards shade-tolerant and fire-intolerant 

species. In the mountains, the absence of 

somewhat frequent fire has allowed fire 

dependent table mountain pine to shrink in 

distribution and is now considered a rare 

community.

 Forests and streams located in areas of basepoor bedrock (sandstone and granite) and with 

elevations above 3,000 feet are being negatively 

affected by historical and current levels of acid 

deposition. The two primary acidifying 

compounds are sulfates and nitrates. The sources 

of acidifying compounds are generally located 

off national forest lands, with coal-fired electric 

generation facilities and vehicles accounting for 

the bulk of sulfur and nitrogen emissions. When 

nitrogen is deposited in excess of forest nutrient 

needs, some nitrate will leave the soil and take 

with it essential nutrients that impoverish the 

soil resource. When nutrients are leached from 

soils, growth of vegetation can be reduced. 

Sulfur deposition can cause the same effects on 

soils when the capacity to absorb sulfur is 

exceeded. Sulfur and nitrogen compounds in the 

soil also cause acidification of high elevation 

streams, which can alter the solubility, mobility 

and effect of aluminum and other chemicals, 

thereby endangering the habitat of native brook 

trout and other aquatic species. Recent and 

projected trends in air pollutants show sulfur 

compound emissions decreasing over the life of 

the Forest Plan, whereas nitrogen compound 

emissions are projected to remain relatively flat.

 Ozone pollution is negatively affecting the 

health of susceptible forest tree species, black 

cherry (Prunus serotina) for example. Ozone is 

formed through chemical reactions in the 

atmosphere between nitrogen oxide (from 

vehicles and coal fired power generation) and 

volatile organic compounds (from industrial and 

natural sources) in the presence of sunlight. 

Ozone levels are highest during the summer. 

Recent studies suggest that competitiveness 

between tree species is changing over time 

because of elevated ozone levels. Tree species 

that are not susceptible to ozone will out 

compete more sensitive species over time. 

Significant reductions in ozone pollution over 

the life of the Forest Plan are not anticipated 

because nitrogen oxide emissions are not 

expected to decrease significantly.

 Integrated Pest Management (IPM) bridges 

several of the following forest health goals. IPM 

is the maintenance of destructive agents, 

including insects, at tolerable levels, by the 

planned use of a variety of preventive, 

suppressive, or regulatory tactics and strategies 

that are ecologically and economically efficient 

and socially acceptable. Within the constraints of 

Forest Plan standards and desired conditions, 

forest insects and diseases are controlled using 

IPM if necessary to prevent unacceptable 

damage to resources on adjacent land, or prevent 

unnatural loss to the forest resource or to protect 

threatened, endangered, and sensate species 

Goals and Objectives 

Goal 14 Manage forest ecosystems and 

associated communities to maintain or restore 

composition, structure, function, and 

productivity over time. 

2-12 
Goal 15 Minimize adverse effects from nonnative invasive species. Coordinate with private 

landowners and land managers as needed to 

address influx of non-native invasive species 

and treatments needed to protect the National 

Forest resources. 

Objective 15.01 Control non-native 

invasive plants on, at a minimum,1,000 

acres by the end of the 10-year planning 

period, emphasizing management 

prescriptions where biodiversity or 

restoration is a primary objective. 

Goal 16 Maintain or restore native tree species 

whose role in forest ecosystems is threatened by 

insects or disease. 

Goal 17 Manage forest stands so they are less 

susceptible to insects and disease. 

Objective 17.01 Improve forest health 

on 10,000 – 50,000 acres of pine forests 

by reducing stand density. 

Standards 

FW-34 Apply pesticides according to label 

instructions, Forest Service policies and other 

federal regulations. 

FW-35 Areas treated with pesticide are signed. 

FW-36 Seeding with invasive non-native species 

(listed on the Regional Forester’s invasive 

species list) shall not be conducted. 

FW-37 Healthy (full crowns and free of littleleaf 

disease) shortleaf pine will not be cut on the 

piedmont during vegetation management 

activities in order to maintain future restoration 

opportunities. Exceptions may be made where 

needed to provide for public safety, protection of 

private resources, or insect and disease control, 

or thinnings. 

FW-38 To limit soil compaction, no mechanical 

equipment is used on plastic soils when the 

water table is within 12 inches of the surface, or 

when soil moisture exceeds the plastic limit. Soil 

moisture exceeds the plastic limit if the soil can 

be rolled to pencil size without breaking or 

crumbling. 

FW-39 All trails, roads, ditches, and other 

improvements in the project area are kept free of 

logs, slash, and debris. Any road, trail, ditch, or 

other improvement damaged by operations is 

promptly repaired. 

FW-40 Herbicides and application methods are 

chosen to minimize risk to human and wildlife 

health and the environment. No class B, C, or D 

chemical (defined in Glossary, Appendix B) may 

be used on any project, except with Regional 

Forester’s approval. Approval will be granted 

only if a site-specific analysis shows that no 

other treatment would be effective and that all 

adverse health and environmental effects will be 

fully mitigated. Diesel oil will not be used as a 

carrier for herbicides, except as it may be a 

component of a formulated product when 

purchased from the manufacturer. Vegetable oils 

will be used as the carrier for herbicides when 

available and compatible with the application 

proposed. 

FW-41 Areas are not burned under prescription 

for at least 30 days after herbicide treatment. 

FW-42 Weather is monitored and the project is 

suspended if temperature, humidity, or wind 

becomes unfavorable as follows: 

FW-43 Nozzles that produce large droplets 

(mean droplet size of 50 microns or larger) or 

streams of herbicide are used. Nozzles that 

2-13 
produce fine droplets (mean droplet size of less 

than 50 microns) are used only for hand 

treatment where distance from nozzle to target 

does not exceed 8 feet. 

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FW-44 A certified pesticide applicator 

supervises each Forest Service application crew 

Contracted crews will be supervised by a 

licensed pesticide applicator. Crewmembers are 

trained in personal safety, proper handling and 

application of herbicides, and proper disposal of 

empty containers. 

FW-45 People living within 1⁄4 mile of an area 

to be treated aerially are notified during project 

planning and shortly before treatment. 

FW-46 With the exception of permittee 

treatment of right-of-way corridors that are 

continuous into or out of private land and 

through Forest Service managed areas, no 

herbicide is broadcast applied (as opposed to 

directed sprays) within 100 feet of private land 

or 300 feet of a private residence, unless the 

landowner agrees to closer treatment. Buffers are 

clearly marked before treatment so applicators 

can easily see and avoid them. 

FW-47 Application equipment, empty herbicide 

containers, clothes worn during treatment, and 

skin are not cleaned in open water or wells. 

Mixing and cleaning water must come from a 

public water supply and be transported in 

separate labeled containers. 

FW-48 Herbicide mixing, loading, or cleaning 

areas in the field are not located within 200 feet 

of private land, open water or wells, or other 

sensitive areas. 

FW-49 No herbicide is aerially applied within 

300 feet of any threatened, endangered, 

proposed, or sensitive plant. Buffers are clearly 

marked before treatment so applicators can 

easily see and avoid them. 

FW-50 No herbicide is aerially applied within 

100 horizontal feet of lakes, wetlands, or 

perennial or intermittent springs and streams. 

FW-51 No herbicide is aerially applied within 

200 horizontal feet of an open road or a 

designated trail. Buffers are clearly marked 

before treatment so applicators can easily see 

and avoid them. 

FW-52 Pine straw or any other mulching 

material will not be sold (as mulch or for any 

other purpose) from areas treated with 

clopyralid. 

2-14 
Wood Products And Special Forest 

Products 

Lands suitable for timber production provide a 

planned periodic harvest of wood products. 

Suitable lands are managed to influence tree 

species composition, control stocking, ensure 

adequate reforestation, harvest trees, and protect 

the productivity of the site while providing for a 

healthy vigorous forest within the growth 

capabilities of the sites. Maintaining a mix of 

successional habitats and/or a desired species 

composition is a primary objective for most of 

these lands on the Sumter National Forest. 

Trees and the products derived from them are 

a highly valued forest resource, managed 

through a timber program for multiple-use 

objectives. Wood products contribute to the 

social and economic well being of the people 

living in the area. Forest products vary from 

high quality veneer for furniture and flooring to 

construction timbers to small diameter pulp logs 

used in the production of paper.

 Lands not suitable for timber production may 

provide additional wood products. However, no 

yields of forest products are planned from these 

lands. Any such harvests are either driven by 

resource objectives other than forest products, or 

are a result of insect/disease control or salvage 

operations. 

All of the acres in Table 2-3 are approximate. 

Management prescription 11 is estimated based 

on stream order, slope, and soil type. Actual area 

will be based on ground conditions. A map that 

accompanies this Forest Plan shows the 

allocation of management prescriptions on the 

Sumter. 

The allowable sale quantity includes 

estimated timber volume from timber sales on 

lands suitable for timber production. The 

estimates are based on site quality, tree growth 

rates, habitat and environmental adjustments. 

When salvage occurs on these lands, the salvage 

volume is considered part of the allowable sale 

quantity. Salvage on lands unsuitable for timber 

production is not part of the allowable sale 

quantity. The allowable sale quantity for the 

forest is 139 million cubic feet (MMCF) for all 

decades, or an average of 13.9 MMCF annually.

 Management of the Sumter National Forest 

balances the ecological value of leaving dead, 

dying, and damaged trees as part of the 

ecosystem, with aesthetic desires, visitor safety, 

and the economic value of this resource for 

wood products if removed before deterioration. 

During southern pine beetle outbreaks, salvage 

harvest is an important tool for preventing 

further spread of infested spots. Only a relatively 

small portion of the mortality across the Sumter 

is removed through salvage operations with the 

remainder providing organic matter, nutrients, 

tree cavities, large woody debris, etc. 

Appropriate regeneration methods are used to 

perpetuate desirable tree species. Decisions on 

specific harvest methods are based on sitespecific project level analysis. 

2-15 
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2-16
Goals and Objectives 

Goal 18 

Provide a sustainable supply of wood products. 

Standards 

FW-53 Special forest product collections are not 

allowed in botanical areas and rare communities, 

except for research or propagation. 

FW-54 The maximum size of an opening 

created by even-aged or two-aged regeneration 

treatments is 80 acres for southern yellow pine 

and 40 acres for all other tree species. 

Exceptions to these acreage limitations may be 

permitted following review by the Regional 

Forester. These acreage limits do not apply to 

areas treated as a result of natural catastrophic 

conditions such as fire, insect or disease attack, 

or windstorm. Areas managed as permanent 

openings (e.g., meadows, pastures, food plots, 

rights-of-way, woodlands, savannas, and 

grasslands) are not subject to these standards and 

are not included in calculations of opening size, 

even when within or adjacent to created 

openings. 

The 80-acre limit will not apply to the 

loblolly pine forest type on the Andrew Pickens 

Ranger District. These stands have a desired 

condition of more native species composition, 

and many are more than 80 acres with the largest 

stand being 290 acres. Leaving loblolly pine 

trees on site would provide an unwanted seed 

source and would work against restoration 

activities. 

FW-55 An even-aged regeneration area will no 

longer be considered an opening when the 

certified reestablished stand has reached an age 

of 5 years. 

FW-56 Regeneration harvest on lands suitable 

for timber production must be done under a 

regeneration harvest method where adequate 

stocking of desirable species is expected to 

occur within 5 years after the final harvest cut. 

(Five years after final harvest means 5 years 

after clearcutting, 5 years after final overstory 

removal in shelterwood cutting, 5 years after the 

seed tree removal cut in seed tree cutting, or 5 

years after selection cutting.) The new stand 

must meet the minimum stocking levels as 

described in Table 2-4. These standards apply to 

both artificial and natural means of stand 

regeneration. Where natural means are used and 

stand reestablishment has not been accomplished 

within 3 years after committing the stand to 

regeneration, the stand is re-examined for further 

treatment needs. 

FW-57 Sell no more than 138.7 MMCF of 

chargeable timber from lands suitable for timber 

production during the 10-year planning period. 

FW-58 No timber harvesting shall occur on 

lands classified as not suited for timber 

production except for salvage sales, harvest 

activities necessary to protect other multiple-use 

values, or harvest activities needed to meet other 

(non-timber) desired conditions of the 

management prescriptions established in this 

Forest Plan. 

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2-17 
Fire Management

Historically, fire may have been the most 

common form of natural disturbance on the 

landscape now managed as the Sumter National 

Forest. Fire has played an important role in 

developing and maintaining southern yellow 

pine ecosystems and appears to be a major factor 

in the developing oak forests. (Reference 

Southern Appalachian Assessment “Terrestrial 

Report” page 94-96). For additional discussion 

on fire’s role in forest health, please refer to 

“Forest Health.”

 For purposes of fire management, ecosystems 

have been classified into five fire regimes. 

3⁄4 Group 1—(0 to 35 years) low severity. 

3⁄4 Group 2—(0 to 35 years) stand 

replacement severity. 

3⁄4 Group 3—(35 to 100+ years) mixed 

severity. 

3⁄4 Group 4—(35 to 100+ years) stand 

replacement severity. 

3⁄4 Group 5—(more than 200 years) stands 

replacement severity. 

Fire regimes are generalized descriptions of the 

role fire plays in an ecosystem. (Discussion of 

fire regimes can be found in the FEIS, Chapter 3, 

“Prescribed and Wildland Fire.”) The Sumter is 

dominated by fire-adapted and fire-dependent 

ecosystems characterized by short return interval 

understory fire regimes with low to moderate 

intensity ground fires that generally are nonlethal to the dominant trees.

 Fire exclusion, primarily by suppression, 

disrupted the pattern of fire intensity and 

occurrence on the Sumter. The effect of the 

changes in the vegetation eventually leads to a 

regime shift on the continuum. Almost all 

significant forest health problems and many of 

the most destructive wildfires occur in these 

ecosystems, where fire has been excluded for 

prolonged periods and the natural fire regime has 

shifted. (Reference Land Management 

Considerations in Fire Adapted Ecosystems: 

Conceptual Guidelines. USDA Forest Service, 

Fire and Aviation Management, Washington, 

DC. FS-590. August 1996.) 

Three Condition Classes define the degree of 

departure from historical fire regimes, resulting 

in alteration of key ecosystem components. 

(Reference A Collaborative Approach for 

Reducing Wildland Fire Risks to Communities 

and the Environment, 10-Year Comprehensive 

Strategy, Implementation Plan May 2002.) 

3⁄4 Condition Class 1: Fire regimes in this 

fire condition class are within historical 

ranges. Vegetation composition and 

structure are intact. Fire dependent 

ecosystem components are maintained by 

desired fire regimes. Thus, the risk of 

losing key ecosystem components from 

the occurrence of wildland fire remains 

relatively low. 

3⁄4 Condition Class 2: Fire regimes on 

these lands have been moderately altered 

from their historical range. A moderate 

risk of losing key ecosystem components 

has been identified on these lands. Fire 

frequencies have departed by one or 

more return intervals. Vegetation 

composition has been moderately altered. 

3⁄4 Condition Class 3: Fire regimes on 

these lands have been significantly 

altered from their historical return 

interval. The risk of losing key 

ecosystem components from fire is high. 

Fire frequencies have departed from 

historical ranges by multiple return 

intervals. Vegetation composition, 

structure, and diversity have been 

significantly altered. Consequently, these 

lands verge on the greatest risk of 

ecological collapse. 

The Sumter National Forest is characterized 

by short return-interval fire regime 1, and all 

three condition classes. 

The hazardous fuels reduction program 

focuses on maintaining land in existing 

2-18 
condition class 1, and treating the fuels hazard in 

condition classes 2 and 3 to bring them into 

condition class 1. Priority is in the wildland 

urban interface (WUI), followed by maintaining 

and restoring fire adapted ecosystems.The 

current prescribed burning program for 

hazardous fuels and resource management treats 

about 20,000 acres annually. Approximately 

18,000 acres of the average are burned for 

hazardous fuels reduction and 2,000 acres for 

other resource management. It is important for 

forest health, threatened and endangered species 

habitat, and reducing the risk in the wildland 

urban interface to maintain the forest currently in 

condition class 1 and restore as much of the 

condition class 2 and 3 to a lower class if 

possible. 

Fire behavior and its effects vary within the 

Sumter National Forest. The piedmont is 

characterized by gentle rolling hills. Steeper, 

longer slopes characterize the mountains, and 

affect fire behavior and fire size more 

dramatically than the topography found in the 

piedmont. Consequently, the mountains have 

the potential for larger fires. 

The Sumter National Forest suppresses an 

average of 30 wildland fires annually, which 

burn approximately 200 acres of National Forest 

land. Humans cause 94 percent of these fires: 

most are intentionally set or escaped debris 

burning. Lightning causes 6 percent of these 

fires. Most fires, 86 percent, are 10 acres or 

fewer. 

The Sumter may expect 40 to 50 days of high 

fire danger and 1 day of very high to extreme 

fire danger, annually. Most fires occur during 

the high fire danger periods with flame lengths 

of 3-5 feet. Severe and extreme droughts occur 

periodically, usually beginning in the spring and 

may continue through November. During these 

periods the Keetch-Byrum Drought Index 

(KBDI) may reach 700+. In the past 25 years, 

the Sumter has had 17 escaped fires (over 100 

acres), an annual escape fire frequency of 0.68 

and an average of 234 acres burned per year.

 Major factors affecting forest fuels are 

dominant vegetation type and age (overstory, 

midstory and ground cover), and the presence of 

insects and disease. Regeneration harvests over 

the past 20 years have resulted in a mosaic of 0 

to 20 year-old pine stands. Fires starting in 

reproduction stands are harder to suppress than 

fire in open stands with light fuels. These stands 

have a greater potential of increased mortality to 

the overstory with increased potential for stand 

replacement fires. A recent infestation of the 

southern pine beetle has dramatically increased 

the amount of fuel present, both on the ground 

and standing. Treatments include salvage sales 

in the piedmont and cut-and-leave activities in 

the mountains and piedmont. Both types of 

treatment will increase hazardous fuels on the 

ground, and add complexity and hazard to 

suppression efforts and wildland fire use.

 Much of the Sumter is in dispersed 

ownership and can be classified as wildland 

urban interface.This wildland urban interface 

places the private structures at increased risk 

from wildland fires and vice versa. If fire is 

excluded from these areas, fuel loadings will 

increase, resulting in increasingly greater risk for 

larger and more intense fires. The hazardous 

fuels reduction program strives to reduce this 

risk. 

The National Fire Plan – A Collaborative 

Approach for Reducing Wildland Fire Risks to 

Communities and the Environment 10-Year 

Comprehensive Strategy Implementation Plan 

established four goals for Forest Service Fire 

Management (and other federal and state 

agencies). Theese goals provide the framework 

for developing the Sumter’s fire management 

program. These four goals follow. 

1. Improve Fire Prevention and 

Suppression 

2. Reduce Hazardous Fuels 

3. Restore Fire-Adapted Ecosystems 

4. Promote Community Assistance 

The appropriate management response will 

be used for suppression strategies. These 

strategies range from direct attack to minimizing 

acreage burned and resource value loss, to 

2-19 
indirect attack where firefighter and public 

safety is always the primary consideration. 

(Reference “Federal Wildland and Prescribed 

Fire Management Policy” 1995, and 

amendments.) 

The “Fire Management Plan” (FMP), a 

strategic document based on and in support of 

this Forest Plan, provides comprehensive 

guidelines for both the suppression and the 

prescribed fire programs in relation to other 

management activities and geographic areas on 

the Sumter. The “Fire Management Plan” does 

not document fire management decisions; rather 

it provides the operational parameters whereby 

fire managers implement the goals and 

objectives in the Forest Plan or land 

management decisions.” (FSH 31 

5109.19 CH 50, 52.1) 

Goals and Objectives 

Goal 19 Protect life, property, and resources 

from unacceptable damage by fire through 

improved fire prevention, suppression, 

hazardous fuel reduction, and promoting 

community assistance. 

Goal 20 Maintain and restore fire-adapted 

ecosystems by reducing hazardous fuels through 

the use of prescribed fire and mechanical fuels 

treatments. 

Objective 20.01 Maintain condition 

class 1 by restoring historic fire return 

intervals and reducing the risk of losing 

ecosystem components to wildfire on 

approximately 250,000 acres over the 10­

year planning period. 

Goal 21 Emissions from prescribed fire will not 

hinder the state’s progress toward attaining air 

quality standards and visibility goals. 

Standards 

Wildland Fire 

FW-59 The safety of firefighters and the public 

is the first priority in all fire management 

activities. 

FW–60 Suppress human-caused fires. 

FW-61 Wildland fire use, the management of 

naturally ignited wildland fire, is allowed with 

an approved “Fire Management Plan” and a 

specific “Wildland Fire Implementation Plan” 

for the area. 

FW–62 Wildland fire use of naturally-ignited 

wildland fire in wilderness is allowed with an 

approved “Fire Management Plan,” a 

“Wilderness Fire Plan,” and a specific “Wildland 

Fire Implementation Plan” for the area. 

Prescribed Fire 

FW-63 Prescribed fires will be implemented 

following the direction found in FSM 5140. 

FW-64 Prescribed burns are done so they do not 

consume all litter and duff and/or alter structure 

and color of mineral soil on more than 15 

percent of the area. 

FW-65 On severely eroded forest soils, any area 

with an average litter-duff depth of less than 1⁄2 

inch or duff less than 1⁄4 inch will only be burned 

at low intensity. 

FW-66 Use existing barriers, e.g., streams, 

lakes, wetlands, roads, and trails, whenever 

possible to reduce the need for fire line 

construction and to minimize resource impacts. 

FW-67 All managed burns will comply with 

Smoke Management Programs (SMP) for South 

Carolina. 

2-20 
FW-68 Conform with the “State Implementation 

Plan” for any prescribed fire planned within 

EPA-designated “non-attainment” and 

“maintenance” areas. 

Recreation—Developed, 

Dispersed, and Backcountry 

The Sumter National Forest consists of three 

ranger districts, the Andrew Pickens, Enoree, 

and Long Cane. Each district is unique in its 

recreational offering as well as its landscape. 

The Andrew Pickens Ranger District 

(85,500 acres) is located in the northwest corner 

of the state, bordering both North Carolina and 

Georgia. The district is also rural in nature. 

Apple orchards and small residential complexes 

are common sights. The district’s land base is 

much more consolidated than either the Enoree 

or Long Cane Ranger Districts. National forest 

land dominates the landscape with some 

occasional private lands. The recreational 

resources include developed campgrounds, 

primitive/seasonal camps, several types of trails, 

including the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River, 

a rifle range, hunting and fishing opportunities. 

Hotspots on this district include the recreational 

use associated with the Chattooga Wild and 

Scenic River. The river is one of the main 

attractions of this area and people flock to see it. 

River boating approachs 100,000 per year. There 

is one state park within the forest’s boundaries, 

Oconee State Park. Another large state park, 

Devils Fork State Park is located just a few 

miles to the east of the forest. This district is 

located on the state line for North Carolina, 

South Carolina and Georgia and borders both the 

Chattahoochee and the Nantahala National 

Forests. These national forests also provide 

recreational settings and opportunities that affect 

supply in the area. 

The Enoree Ranger District (161,500 acres) 

is located in central South Carolina, between 

Spartanburg and Columbia. The district has a 

very rural setting with National Forest lands 

interspersed with pastured lands, croplands, 

industrial timberlands, and small communities. 

National forest lands in this area are not 

consolidated and often are adjacent to private 

lands. The recreational resources include 

campgrounds and primitive camps, rifle ranges, 

trails for a variety of uses, interpretive 

opportunities, hunting and several recreational 

fishing lakes. The statewide Palmetto Trail will 

cross this district when completed. Rose Hill 

State Park, a historic state park, is located in the 

middle of the district. An emphasis of this 

district is a premier network of trails for riding 

OHVs, horses, mountain bikes, and hiking, as 

well as abundant opportunities for hunting and 

wildlife viewing. 

The Long Cane Ranger District (117,500 

acres) is located on the western edge of the state, 

near Abbeville, Edgefield and North Augusta. 

The district also has a rural setting and an 

unconsolidated land base. Small towns and 

communities dot the landscape. Forested lands, 

pastures and private residences and industrial 

timberland coexist. The recreational resources 

on this district include developed campgrounds, 

primitive/seasonal camps, rifle ranges, trails for 

a variety of uses, interpretive opportunities, 

hunting, and fishing opportunities. There are 

several state parks located within the forest 

boundaries, including Baker Creek State Park, 

Hamilton Branch State Park, and Hickory Knob 

State Park. Also, there are several Corps of 

Engineer projects along the Strom Thurmond 

Lake, which borders the Long Cane to the west. 

A state scenic highway (state highway 28/81) 

runs through the district. Also, a National 

Heritage Corridor also runs through the district. 

An emphasis of this district is a premier network 

of trails for hiking and riding OHVs, horses, 

mountain bikes, as well as abundant 

opportunities for hunting and wildlife viewing. 

Although the opportunities for outdoor 

recreation are extensive and the public demand 

for these opportunities is seemingly endless, the 

Sumter’s capability to meet these demands is not 

endless. Visitor preferences can shift over time. 

Both changing financial limitations and 

2-21 
environmental impacts must be considered. In 

order to maximize value to the public with the 

limited resources available, the forest will focus 

on providing those opportunities that are unique 

or of exceptional long-term value in a manner 

that focuses on maximizing visitor satisfaction 

within financial and environmental limitations. 

Goals and Objectives 

Goal 22 Provide a spectrum of high quality 

nature-based recreational settings and 

opportunities that reflect the unique or 

exceptional resources of the Sumter and the 

interests of the recreating public on an 

environmentally sound and financially 

sustainable basis. Adapt management of 

recreation facilities and opportunities as needed 

to shift limited resources to those opportunities. 

Goal 23 Where financially and environmentally 

feasible, enhance the following opportunities: 

3⁄4 Hiking, biking, canoe, kayak, raft and 

equestrian trail systems, especially in 

non-motorized settings with high quality 

landscapes 

3⁄4 Designated OHV routes 

3⁄4 The high priority improvements,

expansions, or additions of facilities to

provide developed recreational

opportunities

3⁄4 Hunting, fishing, wildlife, bird, and plant 

viewing opportunities 

3⁄4 Educational and interpretive 

opportunities 

Objective 23.01 Maintain or improve 

150 acres of ponds/lake habitat for 

recreational fisheries. 

Objective 23.02 In the piedmont, 

increase acreage that is at least 1⁄2 mile 

from an open road to 35,000 acres, 

emphasizing land blocks that are at least 

2,500 contiguous acres in size. 

Goal 24 Enhance opportunities to provide 

backcountry (semi-primitive motorized and nonmotorized/remote) recreational experiences that 

are generally not available on other land 

ownerships. 

Goal 25 Provide a range of accessible recreation 

facilities and trails. 

Standards 

General 

FW-69 Limit OHVs and mountain bikes to 

designated routes. 

FW-70 Prohibit camping stays over 14 days, 

unless permitted. 

FW-71 No new OHV routes in the Turkey, 

Stevens, Chauga and Chattooga Watersheds. 

FW-72 Dispersed camping is not allowed on the 

Enoree and Long Cane ranger districts without a 

permit. 

FW-73 Motorized use of the trail system is 

permissible for administrative purposes and 

emergencies. 

FW-74 All management activities will be 

consistent with meeting or exceeding the 

condition associated with each Recreation 

Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) class. 

FW-75 At developed recreational sites and on 

trails, effects from recreational use that conflicts 

with environmental laws (such as Endangered 

Species Act, National Heritage Preservation Act, 

or Clean Water Act), are analyzed and mitigated. 

FW-76 At developed recreational sites, water, 

wastewater, and sewage treatment systems meet 

federal, state and local water quality regulations. 

2-22 
FW-77 At developed recreation sites high-risk 

conditions do not exist. 

FW-78 At developed recreation sites, utility 

inspections meet federal, state and local 

requirements 

FW-79 When signed as accessible, constructed 

features meet current accessibility guidelines. 

FW-80 Trails, when signed accessible, meet 

current accessibility guidelines. 

FW-81 Dispersed camping occurs at least 50 

feet from lakes and streams to protect riparian 

areas, 50 feet from trails, and 1/4 mile from a 

road on the Andrews Pickens district. 

FW-82 Camping with horses may only occur in 

designated areas on the Andrew Pickens District. 

Roadless Areas and Wilderness 

Management 

Congressionally designated wilderness areas are 

protected by law and valued for their ecological, 

historical, scientific, and experiential resources. 

There is one designated wilderness area on 

the Sumter National Forest. Ellicott Rock 

Wilderness is shared between three national 

forests, the Sumter, the Nantahala and the 

Chattahoochee. Of the combined 8,271 acres for 

the entire wilderness area, 2,856 acres are on the 

Sumter. This acreage represents less that 1 

percent of the total forest acreage. The existing 

wilderness areas will be managed to maintain 

the area’s natural characteristics. Natural 

occurrences such as outbreaks of insects or 

disease are allowed as part of the natural cycle. 

Man-caused intrusions are not allowed. Under 

emergency conditions, mechanical equipment 

and motorized transport may be approved for use 

to control fire, which threatens life, property, or 

the wilderness resource. The Sumter National 

Forest contains one recommended wilderness 

study area that has not been acted upon by 

Congress, Ellicott Rock Extension (1,982 acres.) 

The Sumter National Forest has 4 inventoried 

roadless areas, totaling approximately 6,161 

acres. One of the areas is shared with the 

Chattahoochee National Forest. 

Air pollution emitted within or near the 

Sumter can be transported and transformed over 

long distances. The impacts from secondary 

pollutants on natural resources can be found 

downwind of where the air pollution is emitted. 

There are four areas within 200 km of the 

Sumter that are designated as class I air quality 

according to the Clean Air Act Amendments of 

1977. Three of these class I areas (Linville 

Gorge, Joyce Kilmer/Slickrock, and Shining 

Rock Wilderness) are under the responsibility of 

the USDA Forest Service on other national 

forests. The forests managing Class I wilderness 

have a legal responsibility to advise the state 

environmental agencies if any new or modified 

source of air pollution originating within the 

state will have an adverse impact to the air 

quality related values (AQRV) of the nearby 

class I areas. 

Goals and Objectives 

Goal 26 Maintain wilderness, wilderness study 

areas, and inventoried roadless area 

characteristics. 

Goal 27 Manage wilderness, wilderness study 

areas, and inventoried roadless areas to provide 

the social and ecological benefits that only they 

can offer. 

2-23 
Wild and Scenic Rivers

Chattooga Wild and Scenic River 

The Sumter National Forest has one designated 

Wild and Scenic River. On May 10, 1974, the 

Chattooga River was added to the National Wild 

and Scenic Rivers System. It is one of the 

premier whitewater streams of the eastern 

United States. Its 57 designated miles begin in 

the National Forests of North Carolina and 

forms the state boundary between South 

Carolina (Sumter National Forest) and Georgia 

(Chattahoochee National Forest). The Sumter 

National Forest has the lead authority for all 

boating/floating use (commercially-guided and 

self-guided) on the Chattooga River when it 

involves the main channel from Burrell’s Ford to 

Lake Tugaloo, as well as the West Fork in 

Georgia. The respective forests where these uses 

occur administer all other land and water uses. 

The Chattooga River has several 

outstandingly remarkable values including 

geology, biology, scenery, recreation and history. 

The Chattooga River corridor has a variety of 

recreational activities from hiking and equestrian 

use to nature study, backpacking, and fishing. 

Floating use, both guided and self-guided, 

fluctuates each year based on water levels. In 

years of high water levels, the use for both 

guided and self-guided has reached as high as 

89,000 people per year. In years of lower water 

levels the number can be significantly lower. 

Specific management direction can be found in 

Management Prescription 2A in Chapter 3. 

Eligible Rivers 

During the current forest plan development, 

rivers on the Sumter National Forest were 

considered for potential inclusion in the National 

Wild and Scenic Rivers System based on the 

requirements of Section 5(d)(1) of the Wild and 

Scenic Rivers Act. The forest evaluated the 

eligibility of five rivers and found only the 

Chauga River as eligible. This river was placed 

in a scenic area prescription to protect the freeflowing condition and outstandingly remarkable 

values.

 In 1995 a comprehensive inventory was done. 

This inventory included rivers identified on the 

Nationwide Rivers Inventory, the South Carolina 

Statewide River Assessment, and by public 

involvement and information gathered by Forest 

Service personnel. Seventeen streams or rivers 

on the Sumter National Forest were reviewed for 

potential eligibility. Of the 17, eight were found 

to be free-flowing and possess one or more 

outstandingly remarkable values. 

These streams were classified according to 

Section 2 of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act 

(WSR) (PL 90-542). Table 2-5 shows the rivers 

that were studied and found ineligible and Table 

lanoi ta Nr of d eidutS sr evi R 5-2 elbaT 

dnuof dnamet sy S r evi R cin ec S dnadl iW 

elbigi l enI 

D tci rt s i R evi r el i M s 

werdnA 

sn e kciP 

keer C elo P rebmiL 0 .2 

keer C gni K 2 .3 

keer C dekoor C 3 .1 

e eronE 

reviR daorB 0 .73 

reviR regyT 2 .03 

reviR eeronE 7 .63 

keer C tserofria F 6 .9 

enaCgnoL 

reviR elttiL 2 .6 

keer C ena C gnoL 2 .92 

2-24 
sr evi R 6-2 e lb aT noi sulcnI rof d e idutS l an oi ta Nsa e lbigi lE dnuof dna r evi R c in ec S dna dl iW 

D tc i rt s i R evi r S n emg e t e l i M s 

ylgnidnat s tuO 

e lba krameR 

)s(eulaV noi t ac i f i s salC 

sn e kc iP werdnA B keer Cnwot ssar N A/ 3 .9 B ac igolocE/lac inato l l iW d

keer C rade C N A/ 4 .2 B ac igolocE/lac inato l inec S c 

c inecS 

I 9.7 noi taerceR 

c igoloeG c inec S 

aguah C 

lac igolocE/lac inatoB 

I I 1.4 

c inecS 

noi taerceR 

c igoloeG 

lac igolocE/lac inatoB 

dl iW 

c inecS 

I I I 0.4 noi taerceR 

c igoloeG c inec S 

lac igolocE/lac inatoB 

C enar N A/ 3 .1 F i tau qA/hs i c inec S c 

,kro Ft saE 

reviR agoot tah C 

I 5.2 c i tau qA/hs i F lanoi taerceR 

I I 2.2 c i tau qA/hs i F dl iW 

I I I 2. c i tau qA/hs i F 

noi taerceR lanoi taerceR 

c i tau qA/hs i F 

VI 4.2 noi taerceR dl iW 

lac igolocE/lac inatoB 

T keer C eessama N A/ 1 .7 B ac igolocE/lac inato l l iW d

enaCgnoL 

T yekru N A/ .21 5

ef i ldl iW 

c i tau qA/hs i F 

lac inatoB 

lac igol ocE 

c inec S 

S snevet N A/ .31 4 ef i ldl iW 

lac igolocE/lac inatoB lanoi taerceR 

2-25
2-6 shows the rivers that were studied and found 

eligible.

 Management direction for the eligible rivers 

is not in separate management prescriptions but 

is governed by the following forest-wide 

direction. An explanation of the Wild and Scenic 

River study process can be found in Appendix D 

of the FEIS. A map of the eligible rivers can be 

found in Appendix I. 

Goals and Objectives 

Goal 28 The Chattooga Wild and Scenic River 

would be managed to protect and enhance freeflow, water quality and the outstandingly 

remarkable values of geology, biology, scenery, 

recreation and history. 

Goal 29 Eligible rivers will be managed to 

protect free-flow, protect and to the extent 

possible enhance outstandingly remarkable 

values, and maintain the identified wild, scenic, 

or recreational classification. 

Objective 29.01 A suitability analysis 

for Turkey and Stevens Creek will be 

completed by the year 2009. 

Standards 

Eligible Rivers 

The following standards apply to 1⁄4 mile on each 

side of the eligible rivers shown in Table 2-6. 

FW-83 No new road construction in wild sections. 

FW-84 No motorized boats or crafts are allowed 

on the wild sections. 

FW-85 No motorized trails are allowed. 

FW-86 No federal mineral leasing or mineral 

material authorization is permitted. 

FW-87 New utility corridors or 

communications/electronic sites will be 

discouraged. 

FW-88 Protect the outstandingly remarkable 

values and maintain the identified wild, scenic or 

recreational classification. 

Aesthetics/Scenery Management 

Public concern for the quality of scenery in 

National Forest System lands in the Blue Ridge 

and piedmont regions is increasing. Many 

sightseers visit the national forest as part of an 

interwoven experience with other tourist 

opportunities. The Sumter National Forest 

provides opportunities for high quality naturerelated sightseeing and scenic viewing. Scenic 

features include the Chattooga Wild and Scenic 

River, a Congressionally-designated wilderness 

area, the Oscar Wiggington National Forest 

Scenic Byway. The Sumter National Forest also, 

offers premier opportunities for wildlife viewing 

and driving for pleasure. 

These highly visible lands, including those 

adjacent to heavily used waterways, major forest 

trails, scenic road corridors and major highways 

through the forests, present challenges to land 

managers. Potential conflicts could arise 

between scenery management and other resource 

objectives. The visual resource has been 

inventoried and classified in an effort to arrive at 

management solutions that include the scenic 

resource. A visual inventory was mapped on 

Sumter lands using the Scenery Management 

System (SMS). This system increases the role of 

constituents throughout the inventory and 

planning process. It borrows from and is 

integrated with basic concepts and terminology 

of ecosystem management. The system provides 

for improved integration of aesthetics with other 

biological, physical, and social/cultural 

resources in the planning process. 

2-26 
Goals and Objectives 

Goal 30 Protect and enhance the scenic and 

aesthetic values of the national forest lands in 

the Southern Appalachians and piedmont. 

Standards 

FW-89 The Forest Scenic Integrity Objectives 

Maps and Scenic Integrity Objectives (SIO) in 

each prescription governs all new projects 

(including special uses). Assigned SIO are 

consistent with Recreation Opportunity 

Spectrum management direction. Existing 

conditions may not meet the assigned SIO. 

FW-90 The Scenery Management System 

guides protection and enhancement of scenery 

on the Sumter National Forest. The scenic class 

inventory will be maintained, refined, and 

updated as a result of site-specific project 

analysis. The standards under each Management 

Prescription in Chapter 3 refer to the inventory 

as updated. 

FW-91 Lands mapped as concern level 1 

middle ground from travel ways and use areas 

will be inventoried as Scenic Class 2 or higher 

and will be managed for an SIO of Moderate or 

higher. 

Heritage Resources 

Awaiting discovery in the woodlands of the 

Sumter National Forest are the remnants of past 

cultures that confront us and remind us of the 

centuries-old relationship between people and 

the land. These heritage resources hold clues to 

past ecosystems, add richness and depth to our 

landscapes, help us to understand past life-ways, 

provide links to living traditions, and help 

transform a walk in the woods into an 

unforgettable encounter with history.

 More than 10,000 years ago American 

Indians first occupied the area of South Carolina 

that is now part of the Sumter National Forest. 

Historic period Indians included groups with 

social and political ties to the Cherokee and the 

Catawba. Archeological and historical research 

has been used to reconstruct and interpret both 

Native American prehistory and the advance of 

Euro-American settlement into the upstate of 

South Carolina beginning in the eighteenth 

century. Land acquisition for a national forest in 

South Carolina began as early as 1914 in Oconee 

County as part of the Nantahala National Forest. 

However, most of the land acquired to form the 

national forest in the piedmont was purchased 

from willing sellers between 1934 and 1936. 

Together these public lands became the Sumter 

National Forest.

 More than 3,800 heritage resource sites are 

recorded on the Sumter National Forest. 

Prehistoric period sites include campsites, 

villages, hunting areas, stone tool quarrying 

areas, and petroglyphs. Historic period sites 

include farm houses, outbuildings, mines, 

improved springs, dams, mills, quarries, 

cemeteries, churches, Revolutionary War 

battlefields, pottery and lime kilns, bridges, 

Civilian Conservation Corp camps, World War II 

Prisoner of War camps, and fire lookout towers. 

A network of old Indian trails, railroad beds, and 

abandoned roadbeds can be found on the forest.

 Heritage resources are nonrenewable and the 

purpose of the heritage management is to protect 

significant heritage resources. The Forest 

Service seeks to improve public understanding 

of our heritage, to raise public awareness of the 

fragile and irreplaceable nature of heritage 

resources, to share its values with the forest 

visitor, to contribute relevant information and 

perspectives to forest management, and to 

provide enhanced public recreational 

opportunities.

 Heritage resources are an essential 

component of ecosystem analysis and forest 

health assessments providing the link that 

connects people, past, and present to the land. 

They also provide a context for understanding 

2-27 
contemporary landscapes and natural resource 

issues. 

The Forest Plan for heritage resources takes 

its cue from the Forest Service’s National 

Heritage Strategy; a strategic plan that articulates 

the role the heritage program can play in 

achieving the overall mission and vision of the 

Forest Service. It seeks to clarify and define the 

program in terms of three key components: 

stewardship, public service, and a context for 

natural resource management. 

Goals and Objectives 

Goal 31 Manage areas with special 

paleontological, cultural, or heritage 

characteristics to maintain or restore those 

characteristics. 

Goal 32 Meet the demand for quality heritage 

learning and tourism opportunities. Realize the 

potential of heritage sites on the national forest 

to draw heritage tourism partners to benefit both 

the heritage assets and public programs. 

Standards 

FW-92 Significant sites are evaluated for 

eligibility to the National Register of Historic 

Places and are submitted to the State Historic 

Preservation Office for review. 

FW-93 Projects are designed to avoid, 

minimize, or mitigate negative effects on 

potentially significant heritage resources. Inplace protection of identified sites is the 

minimum requirement until site significance is 

determined. 

FW-94 If cultural resources are encountered, 

regardless of whether the area has been 

previously disturbed, halt activities until the site 

significance is determined 

Minerals and Geology

The United States holds title of nearly all of the 

mineral rights beneath the surface of the Sumter. 

Forest tract L-446, containing 358 acres, is the 

only tract on the Sumter where the United States 

does not own the mineral rights. The right of 

development of private mineral rights will be 

allowed subject to the terms of the deed which 

severed the mineral estate from the surface estate 

and the applicable state and federal laws. There 

are no active mines on the Sumter at this time. 

The “Plan of Operations for a Preference Right 

Lease Application for Gold” has been approved 

for 1,100 acres on the Long Cane District. A 

“Prospecting Permit Plan of Operations” has 

been approved on the Long Cane District and a 

Prospecting Permit Application has been 

received for 200 acres on the Long Cane 

District. 

Congress has passed various laws providing 

for the exploration and development of mineral 

resources on National Forest System lands. 

Federal mineral resources are classified into 

three types: 1) locatable minerals, 2) leasable 

minerals, and 3) salable (common variety) 

minerals. Locatable mineral exploration and 

development is authorized by the 1872 Mining 

Act, which applies to Public Domain status 

lands. The Sumter has no public domain status 

lands; therefore, the locatable mineral program 

does not apply. However, locatable minerals 

(e.g., gold, silver, lead, iron, copper, etc.) 

become leasable on acquired status lands. All 

federal lands in the state of South Carolina have 

been acquired. Leasable minerals are managed in 

cooperation with the U.S. Department of 

Interior, Bureau of Land Management (BLM). 

The BLM is the federal agency that issues all 

mineral leases. Leasable minerals include the 

“locatable” minerals that occur on acquired 

status lands, the energy minerals (e.g., coal, oil, 

gas, geothermal, oil shale) and phosphate, 

sodium and potassium. Salable minerals (e.g., 

sand, gravel, pumice, clay, stone, riprap) are 

managed solely by the Forest Service on 

National Forest System lands. 

2-28 
Goals and Objectives 

Goal 33 Mineral resources will be managed to 

meet demands for energy and non-energy 

minerals consistent with Forest Plan 

management prescriptions. 

Standards 

FW-95 Common variety mineral permits 

(individual sales and free use permits) involving 

more than casual use amounts (1 ton) or 

occurring in a sensitive area such as near streams 

or rare communities will have an approved 

mining and reclamation plan. 

Access and Road Management 

The transportation system provides public access 

and facilitates Forest use and management 

activities. The system is facing increased use 

with a declining road budget and a large backlog 

of deferred maintenance work. The increasing 

urban activities along and into the forest 

boundary are creating new demands on the road 

system. Most of the roads have existed for 25 

years or more. Many of the system roads were 

not designed to handle these new demands of 

traffic mix and volume. 

The Sumter road system includes 2,640.6 

miles of road. This system includes the State, 

county, and National Forest System roads. The 

National Forest system roads have recently been 

divided into public and administrative road 

categories. The administrative roads are 

generally for administration of the national 

forest lands and resources and are not classified 

as public roads. However, the Secretary of 

Agriculture allows public use if the road is open 

to traffic. The designated public roads are 

generally open and can be traveled by car. 

National Forest system roads currently total 

1,052.9 miles. These system roads are divided 

into three functional classes: arterial, collector, 

and local. The roads are operated under road 

management objectives to minimize resourceuse conflicts. These conflicts may include mixed 

vehicle use, wildlife considerations, and water 

quality concerns. Refer to Chapter 3 of the FEIS 

for miles of road by functional class. 

Forest highways are specially designated 

routes maintained by a public road agency that is 

of special importance to the forest. These roads 

may be partially funded under the Federal Lands 

Highway program. The forest works with the 

state transportation department on the 

designation and management of these roads. The 

forest currently has 412.64 miles of designated 

forest highways. 

National Forest System roads are divided into 

five levels for maintenance purposes. Roads 

requiring only custodial care, such as long-term 

closures, are level 1. Very low standard roads 

permitting limited passage of high clearance 

vehicles are level 2. Roads maintained for safe 

and moderately convenient travel suitable for 

passenger cars are level 3. Roads with higher 

average daily traffic and generally a through 

route are level 4. Arterial roads and routes into 

special locations, such as recreation 

campgrounds, are level 5. User comfort and 

driving ease are increasingly important 

considerations from level 3 to level 5. About 

57.9 percent of the Sumter is in the level 3 to

level 5 classes, and 38 percent of forest roads are 

in class 1, generally closed. 

The forest handles nearly all maintenance 

activities with service or construction contracts. 

The Sumter road maintenance contracts for the 

last few years have had to reduce the mileage 

maintained because of decreased funding. The 

forest road condition survey program has 

identified over $27 million in deferred 

maintenance work on the road system.

 Road management objectives will be 

reviewed for existing roads and proposed new 

roads through area analysis, watershed level 

analysis, and site-specific project analysis. These 

analyses will be aided by the use of a Road 

Analysis Process (RAP) to assist the forest in 

making road decisions including identifying any 

unclassified roads and deciding whether to add 

them to the system or re-vegetate them so they 

2-29 
can revert back into forest management. Timber 

sales will generally use existing roads or 

temporary roads. New road construction for 

timber sales will be less than in the past. The 

forest will have nearly 17,000 acres where no 

new roads will be allowed and nearly 138,000 

acres where the open road mileage may decrease 

over the planning period. The forest will move to 

more cooperation with the counties in road 

maintenance especially for roads serving a large 

number of private residences or needed for 

school bus access or other community reasons. 

Key roads identified in the public roads program 

will be upgraded as funds become available to 

improve the public’s access and safety. 

Goals and Objectives 

Goal 34 Provide a minimum transportation 

system that supplies safe and efficient access for 

forest users while protecting forest resources. 

Goal 35 Improve conditions of needed roads that 

are adversely affecting soil and water resources. 

Standards 

FW-96 Establish and maintain vegetation, 

preferably native to the ecotype, on roadbeds, 

cut slopes, and fill slopes of intermittent service 

roads when they are closed. Annuals may be 

used to provide temporary soil cover until 

natives can take over. 

FW-97 Constructed transportation routes 

inventoried in the Forest Transportation System 

(roads and trails) should remain opened for 

public travel unless any of the following occurs: 

1. the road is unsafe for motorized public 

travel; 

2. there is unacceptable resource damage; 

3. closures or restrictions are needed to meet 

other resource needs; 

4. cost to maintain is unacceptable/ 

impractical; 

5. the road is determined unneeded for 

resource management or public access. 

Lands and Special Uses 

The Sumter National Forest has an active land 

adjustment program. A Land Ownership 

Adjustment Strategy (LOAS) will provide 

guidance to the land adjustment program and 

identify the optimum desired future land 

ownership pattern to provide for resource use 

and protection to meet public needs.

 Consolidation of National Forest System 

lands is an important objective of the land 

ownership adjustment program. Land 

adjustments have been accomplished primarily 

through land exchanges and purchases. Between 

1992 and 2002, four land exchanges have been 

completed resulting in the acquisition of 2,101 

acres and the conveyance of 885 acres, or a net 

gain of 1,216 acres. During the same time 

period, eleven purchases totaling 5,420 acres 

have been completed using Land and Water 

Conservation Funds (LWCF). Purchases depend 

entirely on available LWCF funding for a given 

year. The purchase program is expected to 

increase as the public becomes more aware and 

supportive of protecting important lands within 

national forest boundaries. The LOAS will assist 

in identifying land purchase and exchange 

opportunities, and define criteria for 

prioritization of lands for acquisition and/or 

disposal. 

There are currently 231 special use 

authorizations covering 4,746 acres on the 

Sumter National Forest. The number of 

proposals for new authorizations received is 

growing each year. Most authorizations are for 

road easements or permits. Other authorized 

uses include utilities, wells, cemeteries, 

communication uses, reservoirs, agriculture, 

churches, experimental or research areas, 

outfitters and guides and oil and gas pipelines. 

2-30 
About 20 new proposals for authorizations 

exceeding 1 year in duration are received 

annually for these types of uses. Numerous 

requests for authorizations lasting less than 1 

year are also received. 

Proper boundary line maintenance is an 

important factor in protecting the national forest 

from encroachment and trespass. The Sumter 

National Forest has about 1,750 miles of 

boundary lines to maintain. Several 

encroachment and trespass cases are processed 

every year as a result of poorly maintained 

boundary lines. 

Goals and Objectives 

Goal 36 Acquire non-federal lands through

purchase, donation or exchange to improve

management effectiveness, support specific

resource management objectives, and enhance

public benefits. 

Goal 37 Manage special uses in a manner that

protects natural resource values and public

health and safety. 

Goal 38 Resolve all known title claims and 

encroachments affecting National Forest System 

lands. 

Goal 39 Provide legal access to National Forest

System lands to allow for the use and enjoyment 

by the public now and in the future. 

Standards 

FW-98 Rights-of-way (ROW) will be acquired 

for existing and proposed National Forest 

System roads and trails. Temporary rights-ofway are acceptable if a permanent right-of-way 

cannot be obtained. 

FW-99 When compatible, manage future 

acquired lands according to the management 

prescription direction within which the newly 

acquired lands are located. 

FW-100 Prior to authorizing or re-authorizing 

new or existing individual well/spring permits or 

diversions of water from streams or lakes, 

determine the in-stream flow or lake level needs 

sufficient to protect stream processes, aquatic 

and riparian habitats and communities, and 

recreation and aesthetic values. 

General 

Standard 

This standard is forest-wide. 

FW-101 Except in the cases noted below, 

individual management prescription boundaries 

may be refined at the project level, through 

appropriate NEPA documentation, to provide 

logical, manageable boundaries. 

Exceptions: 

3⁄4 allocations made at authority higher than 

the Regional Forester, 

3⁄4 where the change would involve the 

boundary or could potentially negatively 

affect the roadless character of an 

inventoried roadless area, 

3⁄4 where the change could potentially 

negatively affect the outstandingly 

remarkable values of streams meeting the 

eligibility requirements of Wild and 

Scenic River designation. 

2-31 
Chapter 3 

Management Prescriptions 

This chapter describes direction specific to the 

management prescriptions on the Sumter. The 

emphasis, desired condition, objectives, and 

standards for the area make up the management 

prescription direction.Forest-wide goals, 

objectives and standards apply to all management 

prescriptions unless specifically exempted or 

modified by the management prescription 

direction. See pages 3-2—3-4 for maps of the 

Management Prescriptions for each district. 

1.A. Designated Wilderness Area 

Ellicott Rock Wilderness Area— 

Andrew Pickens, 2,855 acres 

(approximate) 

Emphasis: The emphasis is to allow ecological 

and biological processes to progress naturally 

with little to no human influence or intervention, 

except the minimum impacts made by those who 

seek the wilderness as a special place that offers 

opportunities to experience solitude. 

Desired Condition: As stated in the Wilderness 

Act, Wilderness provides “...an area where the 

earth and its community of life are untrammeled 

by man, where man himself is a visitor who does 

not remain... an area of undeveloped Federal land 

retaining its primeval character and influence, 

without permanent improvements or human 

habitation, which is protected and managed so as 

to preserve its natural conditions and which; 1) 

generally appears to have been affected primarily 

by the forces of nature, with the imprint of man’s 

work substantially unnoticeable; 2) has 

outstanding opportunities for solitude or a 

primitive and unconfined type of reaction; 3) 

...is of sufficient size as to make practicable its 

preservation and use in an unimpaired condition; 

and 4) may also contain ecological, geological, or 

other features of scientific, educational, scenic, 

or historic value.” 

The natural evolving character of the 

landscape consists primarily of older forest 

communities, with many large trees. Dead and 

down trees are common. The forest canopy is 

continuous except for occasional gaps created by 

natural occurrences such as storms, insect or 

disease outbreaks, and fire.

 Bad Creek, reference drainage, is contained 

within the wilderness boundary, north of the East 

Fork of the Chattooga River drainage. This 

reference drainage is maintained in relatively 

undisturbed conditions from recent human 

intervention or impact.

 Management ignited fire can be used to reduce 

the unnatural buildups of fuels to reduce the risks 

and consequences of wildfire within wilderness 

or escaping from wilderness.

 Mature forests and older stands in various 

stages of climax canopy development and decline 

dominate habitat conditions provided through 

this prescription. Wildlife responsive to large 

diameter standing snags and living den trees 

(raccoon, barred owl [Strix varia], great-crested 

flycatcher [Myiarchus cinerascens], chickadee, 

etc.) would be expected here in high densities if 

adequate food supplies were available. High 

canopy species such as red-eyed vireo (Vireo 

altiloquus) and species that use mid-story and 

well developed shrub layers in understory 

(thrushes, ovenbird [Seiurus aurocapillus], etc.) 

would also be expected in high densities.

 Existing old fields and wildlife openings are 

not maintained. In some cases, existing openings 

may be obliterated through tree planting and 

3-1 
3-2
3-3 
for the 

Long Cane Ranger District 

Management Prescription 

Sumter National Forest 

3-4
elimination of non-native species. New wildlife 

openings are not created. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures as 

referenced in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to 

this prescription. 

The area provides visitors with solitude and 

remoteness in the most primitive and natural 

setting possible. Access into the areas is limited. 

Once in these areas, visitors must rely on their 

own primitive recreational skills. Recreation and 

trails within wilderness are non-motorized. 

Trailheads at surrounding roads are designed 

with sensitivity to scale and character to set the 

tone for experiencing a primitive experience. 

Trails, themselves lie lightly on the land, blending 

with the natural surroundings.Visitors are 

physically challenged as they ford streams and 

climb over downed trees. Few structures 

including signs and facilities are provided. The 

recreational opportunities are in a primitive 

recreational setting. 

Standards 

1.A.-1 The scenic integrity objective is very high 

for all inventoried scenic classes. 

1.A.-2 The Forest Supervisor approves the use 

of motorized equipment or mechanical transport 

for emergencies where the situation involves an 

inescapable urgency and temporary need for 

speed beyond that available by primitive means 

or for exploration (categories include fire 

suppression, health and safety, law enforcement 

involving serious crime or fugitive pursuit, 

removal of deceased persons, and aircraft 

accident investigations) and development of valid 

existing mineral rights. 

1.A.-3 Monitor and mitigate for acid rain and 

other pollution as needed on a case-by-case basis 

with Forest Supervisor approval. 

1.A.-4. Allow fish stocking only to reestablish or 

maintain native species; species of fish 

traditionally stocked before wilderness 

designation may be considered native if the 

species is likely to survive. Stocking shall 

normally be done by primitive means; however, 

Regional Foresters may permit dropping of fish 

from aircraft for those waters where this practice 

was established before the area was designated a 

wilderness. 

1.A.-5 No new utility corridors or 

communication sites will be authorized in these 

areas. 

1.A.-6 Forest insect and disease outbreaks are 

controlled only if necessary to prevent 

unacceptable damage to resources on adjacent 

land, to prevent an unnatural loss to the 

wilderness resource due to exotic pests, or to 

protect threatened, endangered, and sensitive 

species. 

1.A.-7 Hand-applied chemicals to eradicate nonnative invasive plants requires Regional Forester 

approval. 

1.A.-8 No permits for commercial use of any 

forest product is allowed. 

1.A.-9 The Regional Forester approves the use 

of motorized equipment or mechanical transport 

for non-emergency purposes. 

1.A.-10 Fire lines are obliterated as soon as 

practical. 

1.A.-11 Following a catastrophic natural 

occurrence, chainsaw use to reopen trails is 

permitted with Regional Forester approval. 

1.A.-12 Commercial and organized group size is 

limited to 12. 

1.A.-13 No new permits for special uses, except 

for research and outfitter-guide operations. 

Phase out existing non-conforming uses. 

1.A.-14 These areas are statutorily withdrawn for 

federal oil and gas and other mineral leases. 

3-5 
1.A.-15 These areas are not available for mineral 

materials for commercial purposes. 

1.A.-16 Road construction is prohibited, subject 

to valid existing rights or leases. 

1.A.-17 Motorized equipment for search and 

rescue requires Forest Supervisor approval. 

1.A.-18 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

1.A.-19 Use minimum impact suppression 

techniques (MIST) for fire suppression activities 

in wilderness. 

1.B. Recommended Wilderness 

Study Areas 

Ellicott Rock Extension—Andrew 

Pickens, 1,982 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: Manage this area to protect 

wilderness characteristics pending legislation as 

to their classification and provide for existing 

uses where compatible with protecting 

wilderness character. 

Desired Condition: As stated in the Wilderness 

Act, Wilderness provides “...an area where the 

earth and its community of life are untrammeled 

by man, where man himself is a visitor who does 

not remain... an area of undeveloped Federal land 

retaining its primeval character and influence, 

without permanent improvements or human 

habitation, which is protected and managed so as 

to preserve its natural conditions and which; 1) 

generally appears to have been affected primarily 

by the forces of nature, with the imprint of man’s 

work substantially unnoticeable; 2) has 

outstanding opportunities for solitude or a 

primitive and unconfined type of reaction; 3) is 

of sufficient size as to make practicable its 

preservation and use in an unimpaired condition; 

and 4) may also contain ecological, geological, or 

other features of scientific, educational, scenic, 

or historic value.” 

Wilderness consists primarily of older forest 

communities with many large trees. Dead and 

down trees are common. Forests are dense with 

a thick, shrubby, evergreen understory. The forest 

canopy is continuous except for occasional gaps 

created by natural occurrences such as storms, 

insect or disease outbreak, and fire.

 Management ignited fire can be used to reduce 

the unnatural buildups of fuels to reduce the risks 

and consequences of wildfire within wilderness 

or escaping from wilderness.

 Mature forests and older stands in various 

stages of climax canopy development and decline 

dominate habitat conditions provided though this 

prescription. Wildlife responsive to large 

diameter standing snags and living den trees 

(raccoon, barred owl, great-crested flycatcher, 

chickadee, etc.) would be expected here in high 

densities if adequate food supplies were 

available. High canopy species such as red-eyed 

vireo and species that use mid-story and well 

developed shrub layers in understory (thrushes, 

ovenbird, etc.) would also be expected in high 

densities.

 Existing old fields and wildlife openings are 

maintained. In some cases, existing openings may 

be obliterated through tree planting and 

elimination of non-native species. New 

permanent wildlife openings are not created. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures as 

referenced in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to 

this prescription. 

Trails lie lightly on the land, blending with the 

natural surroundings. Visitors are physically 

challenged as they ford streams and climb over 

downed trees. Few facilities are provided. 

Wilderness recreation includes inherent risks. 

Encounters with other visitors are rare. 

Access into the area is limited. Once in the 

area, visitors must rely on their own primitive 

recreational skills. The recreational opportunities 

are in primitive to a semi-primitive nonmotorized setting. 

3-6 
Standards 

1.B-1 The scenic integrity objective is very high 

for all inventoried scenic classes. 

1.B.-2 The Forest Supervisor approves the use of 

motorized equipment or mechanical transport for 

emergencies where the situation involves an 

inescapable urgency and temporary need for 

speed beyond that available by primitive means 

or for exploration (categories include fire 

suppression, health and safety, law enforcement 

involving serious crime or fugitive pursuit, 

removal of deceased persons, and aircraft 

accident investigations) and development of valid 

existing mineral rights. 

1.B-3 Allow mitigation for acid rain and other 

pollution effects and evaluate on a case-by-case 

basis with Forest Supervisor approval. 

1.B.-4 Allow fish stocking only to reestablish or 

maintain native species; species of fish 

traditionally stocked before wilderness 

designation may be considered native if the 

species is likely to survive. Stocking shall 

normally be done by primitive means; however, 

Forest Supervisor may permit dropping of fish 

from aircraft for those waters where this practice 

was established before the area was designated a 

wilderness. 

1.B.-5 No new utility corridors or 

communication sites will be authorized in these 

areas. 

1.B.-6 Forest insect and disease outbreaks are 

controlled only if necessary to prevent 

unacceptable damage to resources on adjacent 

land, prevent an unnatural loss to the wilderness 

resource due to non-native pests, or protect 

threatened, endangered, and sensitive species. 

1.B.-7 Hand-applied chemicals to eradicate nonnative invasive plants require Forest Supervisor 

approval. 

1.B.-8 No permits for commercial use of any 

forest products are allowed. 

1.B.-9 The Forest Supervisor approves the use of 

motorized equipment or mechanical transport for 

non-emergency purposes. 

1.B.-10 Fire lines are obliterated as soon as 

practical. 

1.B.-11 Commercial and organized group size is 

limited to 12. 

1.B.-12 Scenic integrity objective for these areas 

is very high. 

1.B.-13 Livestock grazing is not allowed. 

1.B.-14 These areas are administratively 

withdrawn for federal oil and gas and other 

mineral leases. 

1.B.-15 These areas are not available for mineral 

materials for commercial purposes. 

1.B.-16 Road construction is prohibited, subject 

to valid existing rights or leases. 

1.B.-17 Motorized equipment for search and 

rescue requires Forest Supervisor approval. 

1.B.-18 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

1.B.-19 Use minimum impact suppression 

techniques (MIST) for fire suppression activities 

in wilderness. 

3-7 
2.A. Chattooga W ild and Scenic 3⁄4 Includes emphasis statements, desired 

conditions and standards to protect river River Corridor values. 

3⁄4 Provides detailed direction for on-river 

recreational capacity and establishes 

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Emphasis : Congress designated this corridor as 

part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers 

System. It is managed to protect and enhance the 

outstandingly remarkable values of the river and 

its surroundings. The river will be preserved in a 

free-flowing condition for the benefit, use, and 

enjoyment of present and future generations. 

The Chattooga Wild and Scenic River 

corridor is located in the Sumter, Nantahala, and 

Chattahoochee National Forests. Its 57 

designated miles begin in North Carolina 

(Nantahala National Forest) and forms the state 

boundary between South Carolina (Sumter 

National Forest) and Georgia (Chattahoochee 

National Forest). The river includes sections 

designated as ‘wild,’ ‘scenic’ and ‘recreational’. 

The direction in this Forest Plan specific to 

the Chattooga (prescriptions 2A, 2.A.1, 2.A.2. 

and 2.A.3.) constitutes the comprehensive plan 

as required in Section 3(d)(2) of the Wild and 

Scenic Rivers Act (Act). 

Relative to the requirements in the Act, this 

direction: 

3⁄4 Describes the outstandingly remarkable 

values. 

capacity for in-corridor recreation 

through a desired condition for facility 

development. 

3⁄4 Addresses water quality issues within the 

watershed, particularly through 

partnerships in Chapter 4. 

3⁄4 Includes river-specific monitoring 

measures for water quality and the 

outstandingly remarkable values in 

Chapter 5. Plan Implementation, 

Monitoring and Evaluation. 

The Nantahala and Chattahoochee National 

Forests will use this direction for management of 

the river within their respective forest 

boundaries. 

By agreement among the three forests, the 

Sumter National Forest has the lead authority for 

all boating/floating use (commercially-guided and 

self-guided) on the Chattooga River when it 

involves the main channel from Burrell’s Ford to 

Lake Tugaloo, as well as the West Fork . 

Outstandingly Remarkable V alues of 

the Chattooga River 

In 1974, when the river was designated by 

Congress as a part of the National Wild and 

Scenic Rivers System, the river possessed several 

outstandingly remarkable values including 

geology, biology, scenery, recreation and history. 

These values have generally improved over the 

years. 

Geology —The geologic and geomorphologic 

values of the Chattooga, as described in the 1971 

Wild and Scenic River Study Report for the 

Chattooga River and included the deeply 

dissected escarpment and the steep, rocky, 

forested slopes that plunge into deep, narrow 

gorges. There are a series of outstanding 

monolithic treeless domes and slopes of exposed 

resistant granite, which occur at the upper 

3-8 
headwaters of the river in North Carolina. 

Another feature of the river is that it is the 

headwaters of the Savannah River, which flows 

into the Atlantic Ocean. It is likely that a 

combination of geologic fault, severe erosion, 

and channel entrenchment associated with the 

headwaters of the Savannah River, now known 

as the Tugaloo River (formed by the confluence 

of Chattooga and the Tallulah) captured these 

rivers from the Chattahoochee River. A stream 

capture of this magnitude is unusual in the 

region, but the adjacent Chauga River also 

exhibits these characteristics. 

Biology—There is a variety and richness of the 

plant life within the Chattooga Watershed, 

including the Chattooga Wild and Scenic River 

Corridor. The unique geography and climate 

characteristics provide habitats for uncommon 

assemblages of endemic, disjunct, and relic plant 

species. The most rare species within the 

Chattooga River Gorge landtype are the 

Southern Appalachian endemics, which include 

the liverworts; the rock gnome lichen and Blue 

Ridge bindweed, Fraser’s loosestrife, Manhart’s 

sedge, Biltmore’s sedge pink shell azeala and the 

divided leaf ragwort. Old growth communities 

comprise almost 10 percent of the corridor. 

Federal and state agencies consider several nongame wildlife species within the watershed 

sensitive species. 

Scenery—The scenery along the Chattooga 

River is exceptional. The scenery plays an 

important part of the Wild and Scenic River 

experience. The river is deeply entrenched 

between high ridges for large stretches of its 

length. Steep forested slopes on either side of the 

river give a feeling of seclusion. The river 

constantly meanders and curves, and there are 

excellent views along these bends. The seasons 

change the landscape from the varying soft 

greens of spring and summer to the patchwork of 

red, yellow, and orange. The winter finds the 

leaves stripped away and the patches of green 

from the white pines stand out against the graybrown hillsides and exposed rock formations. 

The river itself provides a varying scene from a 

smooth flowing stream to a river with thundering 

falls and cascades, raging rapids, enormous 

boulders, and cliff-enclosed deep pools. 

Recreation—The recreational values of the river 

and corridor are outstanding along its 57-mile 

course. The river offers a wide variety of 

activities in a high-quality setting. Activities 

range from swimming to hiking and horseback 

riding with spectacular scenery, to excellent trout 

fishing and nationally recognized white-water 

rafting opportunities. Other activities include 

backpacking, photography, and nature study. 

Most of these activities take place in largely 

unmodified natural surroundings, with many 

opportunities for remoteness and solitude. 

History—Very little systematic survey has been 

completed in the river corridor. A total of 38 

archeological sites have been recorded within the 

corridor. These include 15 prehistoric sites, 15 

historic house and farmstead sites, a railroad 

embankment, 2 historic cemeteries, a 19th century 

mineral prospecting pit, and a rock shelter. About 

half of these sites are considered potentially 

eligible for the National Register of Historic 

Places. The Cherokees destroyed Chattooga 

Town, a large settlement of Indians, before 1600. 

The site is near the present day Highway 28 

bridge site. This regionally significant site is 

potentially eligible for the National Register of 

Historic Places. 

Standards 

2.A.-1 Floating on the Chattooga River is not 

allowed upstream of the Highway 28 bridge. 

2.A.-2 Organized events (such as boat races) are 

not allowed on the river. 

2.A.-3 Motorized boats or craft are not allowed 

on the river. 

3-9 
2.A.-4 The number of multi-year permits to 

provide guided inflatable raft trips for the public 

on the Chattooga River will not exceed three (3). 

2.A.-5 The number of multi-year permits to 

provide guided hardboat trips on the Chattooga 

River will not exceed five (5). 

2.A.-6 The recognized holidays for all boating/ 

floating uses (both guided and self-guided) are 

Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor 

Day. 

2.A.-7 Allow no more than 12 craft on all 

guided trips. 

2.A.-8 Overnight camping at locations along the 

river by guided (inflatable and hardboat) 

permittees must be approved by the Forest 

Service. 

2.A.-9 The total allocation of guided inflatable 

trips (for all multi-year permittees combined) and 

their locations are as follows (See Tables 3-2 and 

3-3.): 

Allocation 

Low Water Level (below approximately one 

foot at the Highway 76 gauge) 

A. Weekdays, except for Holidays - 9 Section 

IV trips and no Section III trips (A map of 

these sections is found in Appendix I). Only 

6 of these trips may run Five Falls. 

B. Weekends and Holidays: 

1. October-April—9 Section IV trips and 

no Section III trips. Only 5 of these trips 

may run Five Falls. 

2. May-September—8 Section IV trips and

no Section III trips. Only 4 of these trips 

may run Five Falls. 

Moderate Water Level (approximately 1 to 2 

1/2 feet on the Highway 76 gauge) 

A. Weekdays, except for Holidays—6 Section 

IV 

trips and 7 Section III trips. 

B. Weekends and Holidays: 

1. October-April—5 Section IV trips and 4 

Section III trips. 

2. May-September—4 Section IV trips and

4 Section III trips. 

High Water Level (approximately 2 1/2 to 3 feet 

on the Highway 76 gauge) At this level, the 

Section IV trips may launch as far upstream as 

Thrift’s Ferry, thus the Section III and Section IV 

trips may overlap between Thrift’s Ferry and 

Highway 76. At this level, the Section IV trips 

may not run Five Falls. 

A. Weekdays, except for Holidays—6 Section 

IV trips and 7 Section III trips. 

B. Weekends and Holidays: 

1. October-April—5 Section IV trips and 

4 Section III trips. 

2. May-September—4 Section IV trips and

4 Section III trips. 

Very High Water Level (approximately 3 feet 

on the Highway 76 gauge up to the maximum 

safe water level) 

A. Weekdays, except for Holidays—No Section 

IV trips and 13 Section III trips. 

B. Weekends and Holidays: 

1. October-April—No Section IV trips and 

9 Section III trips. 

2. May-September—No Section IV trips 

and 8 Section III trips. 

Trip size (including guides, paying clients and 

non-paying clients) does not exceed 40. Trips 

may exceed 30 clients: however, total number of 

clients served per section per day does not 

exceed the average of 30 per trip. 

Location 

A. Section III trips launch as far upstream as 

Earl’s Ford and take out as far downstream 

as Woodall Shoals, unless otherwise noted. 

B. Section IV trips launch as far upstream as 

Highway 76 and takeout as far downstream 

as Lake Tugaloo, unless otherwise noted. 

C. Section III and IV trips may overlap 

between Highway 76 and Woodall Shoals. 

3-10 
D. Inflatable raft trips in Sections III and IV 

can be moved to Sections I or II. 

E. Short-term adjustments to the locations of 

launches and takeouts are necessary on rare 

occasions because of occurrences such as 

accidents or natural disasters, which affect 

access to or navigability of the river. These 

adjustments will only be made with the 

approval of the Forest Service. 

2.A.-10 The total allocation of guided hardboat 

trips (for all multi-year permittees combined) and 

their locations are as follows (See Table 3-3): 

Allocation 

A. No more than 48 trips per week (20 on 

Section I/II and 28 on Section III) on 

weekdays. 

B. No more than 13 trips (6 on Section I/II and 

7 on Section III) on weekdays. 

C. No more than 2 trips per day on weekends. 

D. No trips on holidays or holiday weekends. 

E. The combined total number of clients and 

instructors will not exceed 24 people per 

trip. 

F. Two inflatable canoes and kayaks are 

allowed on each trip. 

Location 

A. Section I/II trips launch as far upstream as 

the West Fork registration site and take out 

as far downstream as Earls Ford. 

B. Section III trips launch as far upstream as 

Earls Ford and take out as far downstream 

as Highway 76. 

C. A trip in Section IV is allowed in the place 

of a scheduled Section IV guided inflatable 

trip. 

2.A.-11 The total allocation of short-term canoe, 

kayak and inner-tube guided trips (for short 

term permits) and their locations are as 

follows: 

Allocation 

A. The number of permits is unlimited. 

B. The maximum number of trips permitted 

each year by each different organization is 5. 

(Each day on the river is considered one 

trip.) 

C. The maximum group size is 12 crafts (10 for 

students) for canoes and kayaks, not to 

exceed 24 people (including instructors). 

D. The maximum group size is 24 inner tubes, 

not to exceed 24 people (including 

instructors). 

E. Trips are allowed on weekdays only from 

April 1 through September 30 and on all 

days (including weekends) during the 

remainder of the year. 

Location 

A. Canoe and kayak trips can be taken in 

Sections I, II, and III only. 

B. Inner tube trips can be taken in Sections I 

and II only. 

2.A.-12 The total allocation of self-guided 

boaters and their locations are as follows. (See 

Table 3-5.) 

Allocation and Location 

A. In Section III, year-round allocation for selfguided use at all water levels is 175 people 

per weekend day and holidays and 125 

people per weekday. 

B. In Section IV, year-round allocation for selfguided use at all water levels is 160 people 

per weekend day and holidays and 75 people 

per weekday. 

C. The procedure for the enforcement of selfguided use allocations in Sections III and IV 

is:

 In Section III between April 1 and 

August 31, should daily self-guided use ever 

reach 175 people per weekend day (holidays 

included) for 20 days per year for 2 

consecutive years, reservations would be 

required for self-guided boaters on Section 

III on weekends and holidays during those 

3-11 
months beginning the following year. 

Similarly, should daily self-guided use reach 

125 people per weekday for 50 weekdays 

per year for 2 consecutive years, 

reservations would be required for selfguided boaters on Section III on weekdays 

during those months beginning the following 

year.

 In Section IV between April 1 and 

August 31, should daily self-guided use ever 

reach 160 people per weekend day (holidays 

included) for 20 weekend days per year for 

2 consecutive years, reservations would be 

required for self-guided boaters on Section 

IV on weekends and holidays during those 

months beginning the following year. 

Similarly, should daily self-guided use reach 

75 people per weekday for 50 weekdays per 

year for 2 consecutive years, reservations 

would be required for self-guided boaters on 

Section IV on weekdays during those 

months beginning the following year. 

D. Self-guided users will use a non-voluntary 

registration system. 

Tables 3-2 through 3-5 summarize some of 

the requirements discussed above in standards 

2.A.-9 through 2.A.-12. 

2.A.-13 The total allocation of shuttles for selfguided boaters is as follows: 

A. No more than two shuttle permittees.

B. No more than 30 percent of the daily selfguided allocation by section is authorized 

for shuttle services. 

2.A-14 Possessing or using a saddle, pack, or 

draft animal is prohibited within the corridor 

unless on a designated trail or road. 

2.A-15 The corridor is unsuitable for timber 

production. 

2.A-16 New utility corridors or communications/ 

electronic sites will be discouraged within the 

corridor. 

2.A.-17 Fire can be used within the corridor if 

the outstandingly remarkable values of the stream 

are protected. 

2.A.-18 Limit 

mountain biking 

to designated 

routes. 

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3 ro s 'lraE ot 82 ywH morf dewolla spirt fo noitro p setacidni rotanim oneD 

droF ydna S 

3-12 
VI n oi tc eS snoi tacol lA gni t fa Rd ediuGr evi R ago ot tahC.3-3 e lbaT 

r etaW 

s l ev eL 

yt i capaC 

d et t imr eP M r ebmetp e S-ya i rpA-r ebotcO l 

W syadkee sdnekeeW 1 W syadkee sdnekeeW 1 

woL 3 yad/spirT 6/9 4/8 6/9 5/9 

yad/elpoeP 2 0 63 023 063 063 

d etareoM T yad/spir 6 4 6 5 

yad/elpoeP 2 2 0 4 1 60 2 40 02 0

hgiH 4 yad/spirT 6 4 6 5 

yad/elpoeP 2 0 42 061 042 002 

hgiH yreV T yad/spir 0 0 0 0 

yad/elpoeP 2 0 0 0 0 

1 syaH di losedulcnI 

2 seG diusedulcnI 

3 F sl la eviF ni dewol la spirt fo noitropcidni setarotanimoneD 

4 F yrre s ' tfirhT ta p ni tuyam spirt esehT 

r evi R agoot t ahC.4-3 e lbaT 

snoi tacol lA taobdraH 

d ediuG 

eht fo y a D 

k e eW 

yt i capaC 

d et t imr eP 

r evi R 

noi tc e S 

I II & II I

syadkeeW T keew/spir 2 0 28

T yad/spir 6 7 

W sdnekee T yad/spir 2 

d ediug-f l e S r evi R agoot tahC.5-3 e lbaT 

)yad/sr etaob(snoi tacol lA e sU gni tao B 

VI dna III snoi tc e S rof 

ra eY l lA 

W syad k e e sdn e k e eW * 

III noi tc e S 

1 52 71 5

VI noi tc e S 

7 5 61 0

syadi loh sedulcnI* 

2.A.1. Designated Wild River

Segments, Chattooga River

dl iW d etangi s e D.6-3 e lbaT r evi R 

agoot tahCeht fo s tn emg e S r evi R 

r evi R dl iW 

t s eroF lanoi ta N ni (s tn emg e S 

)s erca 

C ra htuoS(S retmu ani lo ) 92,3 0

N )C ani lora N htro (atn alaha 60,1 5

C oh )aigroeG(eehcoattah 99,5 8

T sercAlato 53,01 3

Emphasis: Congress designated these wild river 

segments and their associated corridors as part of 

the National W ild and Scenic Rivers System. 

They are managed to protect and enhance the 

outstandingly remarkable values of the river. The 

river will be preserved in a free-flowing condition 

for the benefit, use, and enjoyment of present and 

future generations. 

3-13
Desired Condition: These segments of the 

Chattooga River are the most primitive and 

remote. Management of these segments is 

focused on protecting the outstandingly 

remarkable values of the river and preserving the 

natural environment and natural processes from 

human influences. Access to the area is limited to 

roads outside of the corridor. Non-motorized 

trails accommodate use and river access while 

protecting the resources and the river’s 

outstanding resource values. Canoeing, kayaking, 

fishing, outfitted use, hiking, backpacking, and 

wildlife viewing are all typical uses along some 

activities without seeing many other users except 

parts of this corridor. Most users enjoy these at 

the occasional boat put-ins and trailheads. 

Capacity of facilities is typically low, and they are 

rustic in character. Limited new facilities are 

provided, and if constructed, are usually in 

response to the need to correct environmental 

problems rather than increase capacity. Type, 

number, location, and degree of facility 

development are a primary means of limiting 

visitor use. There is no emphasis on upgrading 

recreational facilities to provide more amenities. 

Floating these segments of the river (If allowed, 

some wild segments do not allow floating/ 

boating.) requires considerable skill and selfreliance. The recreational opportunities are in a 

semi-primitive non-motorized setting. 

The landscape character is natural evolving 

with a mostly continuous canopy except for the 

linear swath of the river itself. Occasional gaps 

occur from the results of natural disturbances. 

Most of the forest is mature, with many large 

trees. Most common tree species include 

hemlock, white pine, and various hardwoods. 

Understory plants, particularly rhododendron, 

silverbell, dogwood, redbud, and ferns such as 

Christmas fern and New York Fern provide a 

lush vegetative understory visible from the river 

and trails. Old growth forests predominate, 

except where significant natural disturbances 

occur.

 Existing old fields and openings for wildlife 

may be present and maintained when consistent 

with and do not detract from the outstandingly 

remarkable values, but no creation of new 

permanent openings of this type occurs. Native 

species are preferred but non-invasive, nonnative species may be used when establishing 

food plants for wildlife. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures in 

Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription.

 Mature forests and older stands in various 

stages of climax canopy development and decline 

dominate habitat conditions provided though this 

prescription. Wildlife responsive to large 

diameter standing snags and living den trees 

(raccoon, barred owl, great-crested flycatcher, 

chickadee, etc.) would be expected here in high 

densities if adequate food supplies were 

available. High canopy species such as red-eyed 

vireo and species that use mid-story and well 

developed shrub layers in understory (thrushes, 

ovenbird, etc.) would also be expected in high 

densities.

 Disturbance is primarily caused by natural 

process (floods, wind storms, insects, diseases, 

and fires) or prescribed fire. Prescribed fire may 

be used to mimic natural disturbances and to 

maintain and restore rare communities and 

threatened, endangered and sensitive species 

habitat, and fuel reduction. Integrated pest 

management practices might be used to control 

or minimize impacts from native and non-native 

invasive species. This may include the use of 

mechanized equipment, power tools and 

approved pesticides. Mechanized equipment and 

power tools may also be used to provide for 

public health and safety; search and rescue; 

facilities, trail and wildlife opening maintenance 

and fire line construction. 

Standards 

2.A.1.-1 The scenic integrity objective is very 

high for all inventoried scenic classes. 

2.A.1.-2 Road construction and new river 

crossings are prohibited, subject to valid existing 

rights or leases. 

3-14 
2.A.1.-3 No federal mineral leasing. No mineral 

material authorization is permitted for 

commercial or private use. 

2.A.1.-4 No new wildlife clearings will be 

developed, but existing ones may be maintained. 

2.A.2. Designated Scenic River

Segments, Chattooga River 

r evi R cin ec S d etan gi s e D .7-3 elbaT 

r evi R a g oottahC eht fo stn emg e S 

t s er oF lanoita N 

r evi R cin ec S 

ni(stn emg e S 

)s erca 

)anilora C htuo S(retmu S 4 22 

)anilora C htr o N(alahatna N 5 03 

)aigroeG(eehc oohattah C 864 

T sercA lato 99 7

Emphasis: Congress designated these scenic 

river segments and their associated corridors as a 

part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers 

System. They are managed to protect and 

enhance the outstandingly remarkable values that 

led to their designation. The river itself is 

preserved in a free-flowing condition for the 

benefit, use, and enjoyment of present and future 

generations. Recreational opportunities 

emphasize relatively low development levels. 

Desired Condition: The scenic river segments 

on the Chattooga are slightly more developed 

than the wild segments. The river’s shorelines are 

undeveloped with occasional roads or bridges 

crossing the river and there may be designated 

parking areas and trailheads. Non-motorized 

trails accommodate use and river access while 

protecting the resources and the river’s 

outstanding resource values. Non-motorized trail 

users may include hikers, anglers, boaters, 

mountain bikers, and horseback riders. 

Visitors enjoy a natural setting although the 

sights and sounds of other visitors and 

civilization may be present. Visitors’ outdoor 

skills are challenged moderately. The opportunity 

to encounter other visitors is moderate to high, 

depending upon the location and time of year. 

Visitors seeking solitude visit during non-peak 

seasons, mid-week, or by hiking some distance 

from roads and parking areas.

 Recreational facilities are primarily for visitor 

safety and access and to protect the river 

resources. Capacity of facilities is typically low, 

and they are rustic in character. Limited new 

facilities are provided, and if constructed, are 

usually in response to the need to correct 

environmental problems rather than increase 

capacity. Type, number, location, and degree of 

facility development is a primary means of 

limiting visitor use. There is no emphasis on 

upgrading recreational facilities to provide more 

amenities. The recreational opportunities are in 

semi-primitive motorized setting. 

The landscape character is natural appearing 

and pastoral with a mostly continous canopy 

except for the linear swath of the river itself. 

Most of the forest is mature, with many large 

trees. Most common tree species include 

hemlock, white pine, and various hardwoods. 

Understory plants, particularly rhododendron, 

silverbell, dogwood, redbud, and ferns such as 

Christmas fern and New York Fern provide a 

lush vegetative understory visible from the river 

and trails. Old growth forests predominate, 

except where significant natural disturbances 

occur. Existing old fields and openings for 

wildlife may be present and maintained. New 

wildlife openings may be created if they enhance 

the outstandingly remarkable values of the 

corridor. Native species are preferred but noninvasive non-native species may be used when 

establishing food plants for wildlife. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures as 

referenced in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to 

this prescription. 

Mature forests and older stands in various 

stages of climax canopy development and decline 

dominate habitat conditions provided though this 

3-15 
prescription. Wildlife responsive to large 2.A.3. Designated Recreational diameter standing snags and living den trees 

(raccoon, barred owl, great-crested flycatcher, River Segments, Chattooga River 

chickadee, etc.) would be expected here in high 

densities if adequate food supplies were 

available. High canopy species such as red-eyed 

vireo and species that use mid-story and well 

developed shrub layers in understory (thrushes, 

ovenbird, etc.) would also be expected in high 

densities.

 Disturbance is primarily caused by natural 

process (floods, wind storms, and fires) or 

prescribed fire. Management actions may provide 

scenic vistas and watchable wildlife 

opportunities, maintain developed recreation 

facilities and trails, restore native vegetative 

communities, restore aquatic and riparian 

ecosystems, reduce fuel buildup and control nonnative invasive vegetation. Prescribed fire is used 

to mimic natural disturbances and to maintain 

and restore desired communities. Integrated pest 

management practices might be used to control 

or minimize impacts from native and non-native 

invasive species. This may include the use of 

mechanized equipment, power tools and 

approved pesticides. Mechanized equipment and 

power tools may also be used to provide for 

public health and safety; search and rescue; 

facilities, trail and wildlife opening maintenance. 

Standards 

2.A.2.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic classes. 

2.A.2.-2 Road construction and new river 

crossing are prohibited, subject to valid existing 

rights or leases 

2.A.2.-3 Federal mineral leasing is allowed with a 

no surface occupancy (NSO) stipulation. No 

mineral material authorization is permitted for 

commercial or private use. 

2.A.2.-4 Allow no new wildlife openings unless 

they enhance the outstandingly remarkable 

values. 

r evi R l an oita erc e R fo s ercA .8-3 elbaT 

stn emg e S 

t s eroF lanoita N 

lanoita erc e R 

r evi R 

tn emg e S 

S )anilora C htuo S(retmu 30,1 0

N )anilora C htro N(alahatna 89 5 

C )aigroeG(eehcoohattah 55,1 1

T sercA lato 65,3 6 

Emphasis: Congress designated these 

recreational river segments and their associated 

corridors as part of the National Wild and Scenic 

Rivers System. They are managed to protect and 

enhance the outstandingly remarkable values that 

led to their designation. The river itself is 

preserved in a free-flowing condition for the 

benefit, use, and enjoyment of present and future 

generations. A range of recreational opportunities 

is provided in this prescription area. These 

opportunities are characteristic of, and in 

harmony with, the natural setting of the 

individual river segments. 

Desired Condition: The river corridor provides 

outstanding opportunities for people to enjoy a 

wide variety of river-oriented recreational 

opportunities in an attractive natural setting. 

Visitors are likely to see others. Nonmotorized trails may be highly developed, 

including hardened trails for a high level of 

accessibility for persons of all abilities. The river 

is readily accessible by roads. Roads may parallel 

the river for stretches. 

There is evidence of human activity along the 

shores of these segments of river. 

There is limited need for visitors to rely on their 

personal physical abilities and primitive 

recreational skills within developed and trail 

areas of these segments. Other areas remain 

3-16 
remote and difficult to access or negotiate. 

Visitors seeking solitude may find it difficult to 

achieve, particularly in peak-use rafting and 

fishing seasons. On National Forest system land, 

visitors enjoy a natural-appearing setting with a 

range of man-made recreational developments. 

Since there is the potential for large numbers of 

visitors at peak-use seasons, regulations may be 

necessary to protect resources and visitors. 

Facilities provide visitor safety and comfort and 

protect the river resources. Facilities may include 

parking areas, trailheads, bulletin boards, 

interpretive kiosks, signs, restrooms, canoe/raft 

launches, fishing platforms, picnic sites, etc. The 

recreational opportunities are in roaded natural 

setting. 

The landscape character is mostly natural 

appearing and pastoral. Plant communities are 

structurally diverse with occasional small gaps 

occurring from natural events and manipulation. 

However, most of the forest in these sections is 

mature, with many large trees. Most common 

tree species include hemlock, white pine, and 

various hardwoods. Understory plants, 

particularly rhododendron, silverbell, dogwood, 

redbud, and ferns such as Christmas fern and 

New York Fern provide a lush vegetative 

understory visible from the river and trails. 

Management actions may provide scenic vistas 

and watchable wildlife opportunities, maintain 

developed recreation facilities and trails, restore 

native vegetative communities, restore aquatic 

and riparian ecosystems, reduce fuel buildup, and 

control non-native invasive vegetation. 

Prescribed fire is used to mimic natural 

disturbances and to maintain and restore desired 

communities. Integrated pest management 

practices might be used to control or minimize 

impacts from native and non-native invasive 

species. This may include the use of mechanized 

equipment, power tools and approved pesticides. 

Mechanized equipment and power tools may also 

be used to provide for public health and safety; 

search and rescue; facilities, trail and wildlife 

opening maintenance. Existing old fields and 

openings for wildlife may be present and 

maintained, but no creation of new permanent 

openings of this type occurs. New wildlife 

openings may be created if they enhance the 

outstandingly remarkable values of the corridor. 

Native species are preferred but non-invasive 

non-native species may be used when establishing 

food plants for wildlife. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription.

 Mature forests and older stands in various 

stages of climax canopy development and decline 

dominate habitat conditions provided though this 

prescription. Wildlife responsive to large 

diameter standing snags and living den trees 

(raccoon, barred owl, great-crested flycatcher, 

chickadee, etc.) would be expected here in high 

densities if adequate food supplies were 

available. High canopy species such as red-eyed 

vireo and species that use mid-story and well 

developed shrub layers in understory (thrushes, 

ovenbird, etc.) would also be expected in high 

densities. Species associated with habitat 

conditions found in riparian areas, i.e., Acadian 

flycatcher, parula warbler, Louisiana waterthrush, 

could potentially be found in high densities in 

these areas. 

Standards 

2.A.3.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic classes 1 and 2 and moderate 

for scenic classes 3 through 5. 

2.A.3.-2 No new river crossings are permitted, 

subject to valid existing rights. 

2.A.3.-3 Federal mineral leasing is allowed with a 

no surface occupancy (NSO) stipulation. 

Mineral material authorizations will be allowed. 

2.A.3.-4 Allow no new wildlife openings unless 

they enhance the outstandingly remarkable 

values. 

3-17 
4. D. Botanical-Zoological Area

4,399 acres (approximate) 

Enoree Ranger District 

Rosehill Chestnut Oak/Oak-Hickory Forest 

Long Cane Ranger District 

Parsons Mountain Monadnock 

Post Oak Savanna Complex 

Turkey/Stevens Creek Corridor 

Andrew Pickens Ranger District 

Brasstown Creek and Falls 

Cedar Creek Natural Area 

King Creek 

Opossum Creek 

Station Cove/Station Mountain Cove 

Tamassee Knob and Coves/Tamassee Creek 

Emphasis: These lands serve as a network of 

core areas for conservation of significant 

elements of biological diversity. These areas 

serve to perpetuate or increase existing individual 

plant or animal species that are of national, 

regional, or state significance as identified on 

PETS lists; and to perpetuate plant and animal 

communities that are unique at the scale of their 

ecological section or subsection unit. 

Desired Condition: The goals of designation 

and management of these areas are: 

1. Perpetuate or increase existing individual 

plant or animal species that are of 

national, regional, or state significance as 

identified on PETS lists. 

2. Perpetuate plant and animal communities 

that are unique or uncommon at the scale 

of their ecological section or subsection 

unit. 

3. Allow for public use and enjoyment. 

The botanical-zoological areas on the Sumter 

National Forest are primarily dominated by a 

variety of older forested communities containing 

a variety of species native to the area. 

Disturbances within these areas are primarily 

caused by natural events and prescribed fire. 

Management that maintains or enhances the 

botanical, zoological, or interpretive properties 

for which these areas were designated, such as 

the control of non-native invasive species, may 

be seen. Interpretive signs encouraging the 

protection of native plant and animals in these 

areas are commonly seen. 

This prescription area encompasses a wide 

variety of habitat conditions, from deep rich 

coves, to natural barrens and glades, to table 

mountain pine woodlands. Wildlife and plants 

found in these areas are a combination of species 

commonly found across the Sumter (warblers, 

vireos, squirrels, bats, etc.) and species that are 

almost always found in or near these specialized 

habitats (i.e., walking fern, nodding trillium). 

Existing old fields and wildlife openings are not 

maintained but are allowed to succeed to forest. 

In some cases, existing openings may be 

obliterated by tree planting and eliminating nonnative species. New permanent wildlife openings 

are not created. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription. 

The Turkey and Stevens Creek corridor is 

eligible for wild and scenic river designation and 

will be studied for wild and scenic river suitability 

by the year 2009. The outstandingly remarkable 

values, including wildlife, botanical/ecological, 

and fish/aquatic, will be protected within this 

prescription. 

The landscape character is natural evolving to 

natural appearing to most forest visitors. Hikers, 

hunters, anglers, and backpackers commonly use 

these areas. Signs that interpret the biological or 

cultural aspects of each area may be commonly 

seen along interpretative trail sections. Closed 

roads and trails, compatible with maintenance of 

the botanical, zoological, or interpretive values, 

are available for non-motorized uses. The 

recreational opportunities are in a roaded natural 

setting. 

3-18 
 Density of open roads and/or motorized trails 

may decrease over time as roads and/or trails that 

are unneeded or are causing undesirable resource 

impacts are closed. This decrease results in 

improvements in remote recreational 

opportunities, habitat for disturbance-sensitive 

wildlife, and water quality. 

Standards 

4.D.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic classes 1 and 2 and moderate 

for inventoried scenic classes 3 through 5. 

4.D.-2 New federal mineral leases will contain a 

no surface occupancy stipulation or controlled 

surface use stipulation. 

4.D.-3 No mineral material operations are 

allowed. 

4.D.-4 OHVs and horses are not permitted. 

4.D.-5 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

4.F. Scenic Areas 

10,020 acres (approximate) 

Enoree Ranger District 

Henderson Island/Broad River Scenic Area 

Sandy River Scenic Area 

Lower Rennick’s Branch 

Long Cane Ranger District 

Long Cane Scenic Area 

Andrew Pickens Ranger District 

Chauga Scenic Area 

White Rock Scenic Area 

Emphasis: Protect and enhance the scenic 

qualities and natural beauty of designated scenic 

areas. 

Desired Condition: Visitors enjoy a variety of 

activities in these areas that may include hiking, 

photography, wildlife viewing, canoeing/ 

kayaking, mountain bicycling, horseback riding, 

hunting, and fishing. The landscape is natural 

appearing with an intact, mostly continuous 

forest canopy containing a variety of species 

native to the area. Old growth forest 

communities develop over time. 

Disturbances are primarily caused by natural 

process (floods, wind storms, insects, diseases, 

and fires). Occasionally, some vegetation would 

be manipulated, and open forest canopies would 

be present. Many factors contribute to these 

conditions: PETS habitat may be improved; 

wildlife viewing opportunities provided; native 

vegetation restored; southern pine beetle activity 

suppressed; salvage timber removed; riparian 

ecosystems restored; or hazard trees removed. 

Existing old fields and openings for wildlife may 

be present and maintained. Native species are 

preferred but non-invasive non-native species 

may be used when establishing food plants for 

wildlife. Prescribed fire is an essential component 

of maintaining fire-adapted communities within 

the areas and fuel reduction.

 Hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails 

may be present. Recreational facilities fit the 

character of the specific sites where they are 

located. Facilities might include roads, pullouts, 

and overlooks, parking areas, trails, trailheads, 

bulletin boards, interpretive kiosks, signs, 

restrooms and picnic sites. Trails may be highly 

developed, including hardened trails for a high 

level of accessibility for persons of all abilities. 

The recreational opportunities are in roaded 

natural and rural settings. Open road density will 

not increase or decrease significantly. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription.

 Density of open roads and/or motorized 

vehicle trails remains near the current level 

throughout the planning period, with only small 

increases and decreases. 

3-19
Standards 

4.F.-1 The scenic integrity objective is very high 

for inventoried scenic class 1 and high for 

inventoried scenic class 2. 

4.F.-2 New federal mineral leases will contain a 

no surface occupancy stipulation and controlled 

surface use stipulation. 

4.F.-3 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

4.G.1 Calhoun Experimental

Forest 

4,862 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: Meet the current and future research 

needs of the Southern Research Station. 

Demonstrate common forestry practices to nonindustrial private forest landowners 

Desired Condition: Research results supply 

needed information to forest landowners and 

land managers. Demonstration aspects of the 

experimental forest transfer knowledge to nonindustrial private forest landowners to meet the 

increased demands for forest benefits in an 

environmentally conscientious manner.

 Forest vegetation is in a variety of conditions 

that meet the research needs of the Southern 

Research Station. Aside from demonstration, the 

main need is to maintain various age classes and 

conditions for future research. Within the natural 

area (908 acres) of the experimental forest, old 

growth conditions exist. The following 

conditions apply outside of the natural area, and 

outside of riparian areas. Trees are typically 

grown to ages of 50 to 80 years for pine, and 80 

to 120 years for hardwood. Relatively equal 

amounts of area are in each 10-year age class up 

to rotation age. Pine stands are maintained at 

moderate densities (less than 100 square feet/acre 

basal area) to reduce susceptibility to southern 

pine beetle attack and to promote understory 

development. A flow of wood products is 

provided to local economies.

 For wildlife, the emphasis of this prescription 

is to balance objectives that result in a range of 

beneficial habitat conditions . Animals that utilize 

a variety of habitats (white-tailed deer, wild 

turkey, gray squirrel, woodpeckers, and 

migrating neotropical birds) would benefit and 

would be expected to be found in high densities 

in this area. Existing old fields and openings for 

wildlife may be present and maintained. Native 

species are preferred but non-invasive non-native 

species may be used when establishing food 

plants for wildlife. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures as 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription

 Hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails 

may be present. Visitors enjoy a natural 

appearing setting especially on trails away from 

high use areas. The recreational opportunities are 

in roaded natural and rural settings. Open road 

density will be maintained at the current level.

 Prescribed fire may be used to reduce 

hazardous fuels, maintain or restore PETS 

habitat or rare communities, maintain wildlife 

habitat, or meet research needs. 

Standards 

4.G.1.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic class 1 and moderate for 

inventoried scenic class 2 and low for scenic 

classes 3 through 5. 

4.G.1.-2 New federal mineral eases will contain a 

no surface occupancy stipulation. 

4.G.1.-3 No mineral leases or mineral material 

operations are allowed in the natural area 

4.G.1.-4 The natural area is unsuitable for timber 

production, the remainder of the experimental 

forest is suitable for timber production. 

3-20 
5.A. Administrative Sites

(285 acres embedded in adjoining prescriptions) 

Emphasis: Sites are managed to serve and 

support resource programs and will be 

maintained to protect capital investment. Site 

such as work centers, lookout towers, and Forest 

Service owned offices are included. 

Desired Condition: Provide administrative sites 

and facilities that effectively and safely serve the 

public and accommodate the work force. 

Administrative sites are readily accessed by road, 

and should have barrier-free access. 

The landscape character can range from 

natural appearing to urban/cultural. The limited 

recreational opportunities are in rural settings. 

Occasionally, short, hiking trails can complement 

the offices. Where possible these sites provide 

condensed examples of open grassland/shrub 

land to backyard habitats.

 Sumter offices provide educational and 

interpretive opportunities such as exhibits and 

displays, books, videos, and brochures. 

Standards 

5.A.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic class 1 and moderate for 

inventoried scenic classes 2 through 5. 

5.A.-2 No mineral leasing or mineral material 

operations are allowed. 

5.A.-3 Dispose of administrative sites no longer 

needed for national forest management purposes. 

5.A.-4 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

5.B. Designated Communication

Sites 

(4 acres embedded in adjoining prescriptions) 

Emphasis: These specific sites serve a public 

benefit and include ridge top radio towers and 

support facilities to provide for local 

governmental agencies and the nation’s 

communication and electronic network. Areas 

are managed to minimize adverse impacts on 

other areas. 

Desired Condition: The Long Mountain 

Communication site is the only designated 

communication site. Existing special-use 

authorizations for communications and 

electronics continue within these designated 

areas. Where possible, existing sites are 

expanded as needed rather than creating 

additional areas. All users’ equipment is 

compatible to forest surroundings and other 

users equipment and frequencies. New 

equipment is as inconspicuous to the surrounding 

terrain as possible. 

These sites are non-forested, benefiting 

wildlife species that favor grass, shrubs, old 

fields, and forest edges. These areas contain lowgrowing vegetation, which conforms to the safeoperating requirements of the utility and reduces 

surface water runoff and erosion. Recreation is 

not emphasized nor encouraged at these sites. 

Standards 

5.B.-1 The scenic integrity objective is moderate 

for inventoried scenic class 1 and 2 and low for 

inventoried scenic classes 3 through 5. 

5.B.-2 No mineral leasing will be allowed. 

5.B.-3 No mineral material operations are 

allowed. 

5.B.-4 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

3-21 
5.C. Designated Utility Cooridors

2,948 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: These uses serve a public benefit and 

include long linear features such as high voltage 

electric transmission lines and buried pipelines 

for public drinking water or natural gas. These 

designated corridors serve uses that require at 

least 50 feet of right-of-way. Local distribution 

lines are not included in this prescription area, 

but rather are part of the prescription area where 

they are physically located. 

Desired Condition: Existing linear special-use 

authorizations for electric transmission lines and 

pipelines for water and natural gas will continue 

within these designated corridors. Utility 

corridors are authorized either by special-use 

authorization or license. Where possible, existing 

corridors are expanded to add new transmission 

lines as needed rather than creating additional 

areas. Compatible multiple uses are encouraged. 

Utility access roads and trails within corridors 

are designed, managed, and maintained to forest 

standards, including appropriate stream 

crossings, surfacing and/or drainage dips, or 

other appropriate water control structures. 

Recreational use is generally hunting related, 

although existing trail systems occasionally cross 

these corridors. The recreational opportunities 

are in roaded natural and rural settings. The 

landscape character ranges from natural 

appearing to pastoral/cultural.

 Utility corridors, electric transmission lines, 

and oil or gas pipelines are prime areas for 

viewing wildlife species that favor grass, shrubs, 

old fields, and forest edges. These areas are 

managed to retain a variety of low-growing and/ 

or shallow-rooted vegetation, which conforms to 

the safe-operating requirements of the utility and 

reduces surface water runoff and erosion. These 

areas provide opportunities for annual plantings. 

When the permit is renewed or revised 

opportunities are taken to utilize these corridors 

by planting and maintaining wildlife plantings. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription. 

Standards 

5.C.-1 The scenic integrity objective is moderate 

for inventoried scenic classes 1 and 2 and low for 

inventoried scenic classes 3 through 5. 

5.C.-2 Herbicide application methods will target 

woody or invasive non-native species only. 

5.C.-3 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

5.C.-4 No mineral leasing will be allowed. 

6.C. Old-Growth Areas Managed 

with a Mix of Natural Processes 

and Restoration Activities 

1,640 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: This prescription is part of an overall 

network of large (2,500+ acres), medium (100 to 

2,499 acres), and small (fewer than 100 acres) 

old growth patches associated with a disturbance 

regime. Management of these areas emphasizes 

protection, restoration, and management of old 

growth forests and their associated wildlife, 

botanical, recreational, scientific, educational, 

cultural, and spiritual values. Within this 

prescription, most of the area will contain forest 

communities where no forest management 

activities or intervention will take place. On a 

smaller portion of the area, forest management 

activities are allowed to restore or maintain oldgrowth conditions. 

Desired Condition: The area contains a variety 

of old growth community types including dry and 

dry-mesic oak-pine forest, dry-mesic oak forest, 

mixed mesophytic forest, dry and xeric oak 

forest, woodland, and savanna, river floodplain 

hardwood forest, and eastern riverfront forest. 

3-22 
Desired future conditions and natural disturbance 

regimes (including fire) specific to each old 

growth community type are described in the 

“Guidance for Conserving and Restoring OldGrowth Forest Communities on National Forests 

in the Southern Region” (May 1997). There may 

be evidence of past land use in most of these 

areas especially in the piedmont. Dead, dying, 

and down trees, and large-diameter trees are 

common. Forest canopies are typically 

continuous, interspersed with small gaps from 

natural causes. Management to restore or 

maintain the desired composition and structure 

for the respective old growth community types 

will be allowed. 

Mature forests and older stands in various 

stages of climax canopy development and decline 

dominate habitat conditions provided though this 

prescription. Wildlife that responds to large 

diameter standing snags and living den trees 

(raccoon, barred owl, great-crested flycatcher, 

chickadee, etc.) would be expected here in high 

densities if adequate food supplies were 

available. High canopy species such as red-eyed 

vireo and species that use mid-story and well 

developed shrub layers in understory (thrushes, 

ovenbird, etc.) would also be expected in high 

densities. Existing old fields and wildlife 

openings are not maintained but are allowed to 

succeed to forest. In some cases, existing 

openings may be obliterated by tree planting and 

eliminating non-native species. New permanent 

wildlife openings are not created. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription. 

The landscape character of the area is natural 

appearing. Hikers, backpackers, dispersed 

campers, boaters, hunters, or anglers commonly 

use these areas. Closed roads and trails are 

available for non-motorized uses. The 

recreational opportunities are in roaded natural 

settings. Open road density is likely to decrease 

in this area. 

Standards 

6.C.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic classes 1 and 2 and moderate 

for inventoried scenic classes 3 through 5. 

6.C.-2 New federal mineral leases will contain a 

no surface occupancy stipulation. Mineral 

material authorizations with conditions to protect 

the old-growthcharacter may be permitted. 

6.C.-3 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

6.C.-4. OHVs are not permitted and horses are 

only permitted on designated trails. 

7.A. Scenic Byway Corridor 

Oscar Wiggington Scenic Byway— 

Andrew Pickens, 

3,044 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: A scenic byway corridor is managed 

to provide visitors with the enjoyment of 

outstanding scenery of natural and cultural 

landscapes along a well-maintained road. The 

area may also contain recreational and 

interpretive trails. The area that is visible during 

the leaf-off season for up to 1⁄2 mile from either 

side of the road, unless other criteria are 

established in a site-specific scenic byway 

corridor management plan. Management is 

focused on protecting and showcasing the unique 

and scenic natural and cultural resources, which 

were the basis for the corridor’s being designated 

a scenic byway. 

Desired Condition: The area provides 

exceptional opportunities for motorized 

recreation, including scenic driving. The scenic 

byway, state highways 107 and 413, is a mixture 

of private ownership and national forest lands. 

The landscape results in a patchwork of 

3-23 
pastureland, residences, farms, forests, and 

woodlands. 

The landscape character of the area is natural 

appearing to pastoral settings. On national forest 

lands, the byway has a mostly continuous 

overstory canopy of large hardwoods and pines 

as well as diverse midstory and understory 

vegetation, which provide colorful accents. Both 

natural processes and humans influence 

vegetation. Occasional openings allow visitors to 

enjoy viewing wildlife, native wildflowers, 

flowing water, geographic features, or a cultural 

landscape. A combination of prescribed fire and 

some vegetative management result in a forest of 

deciduous and mixed hardwood-pine forest 

community types primarily in mid- and latesuccessional conditions. Areas of older forest 

communities are common and increase over time. 

Tree harvest may also be used to control insect 

infestation or disease, or to remove salvage 

timber. Existing old fields and openings for 

wildlife may be present and maintained. Native 

species are preferred but non-invasive non-native 

species may be used when establishing food 

plants for wildlife. Additional openings and open 

park-like woodland conditions may be developed 

to improve views in the area. Openings may 

provide views of wildlife, water, or geographic 

features. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription. 

This area is easily accessed with a moderate 

to high potential to encounter others.Byway 

facilities may include pullouts, overlooks, 

interpretive kiosks, trails, restrooms, and picnic 

sites. Scenic, historical and/or natural resources 

are interpreted for the benefit of visitors. There 

is little need for visitors to rely on personal 

abilities or primitive recreation skills. Most, if 

not all facilities are designed to accommodate 

persons with disabilities. The recreational 

opportunities are in roaded natural and rural 

settings.

 Mature forests and older stands in various 

stages of climax canopy development and decline 

dominate habitat conditions provided by this 

prescription. Wildlife that responds to large 

diameter standing snags and living den trees 

(raccoon, barred owl, great-crested flycatcher, 

chickadee, etc.) would be expected here in high 

densities if adequate food supplies were 

available. High canopy species such as red-eyed 

vireo would also be expected in high densities.

 Density of open roads and/or motorized 

vehicle trails remains near the current level 

throughout the planning period, with only small 

increases and decreases. 

Standards 

7.A.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic classes 1 and 2. 

7.A.-2 New federal mineral leases will contain a 

no surface occupancy stipulation. (Mineral 

material authorizations with conditions to protect 

the scenic character may be permitted. 

7.A.-3 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

7.D. Concentrated Recreation 

Zone 

605 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: Concentrated Recreation Zones are 

managed to provide the public with a variety of 

recreational opportunities in visually appealing 

and environmentally healthy settings. Developed 

recreation areas, concentrated use areas, and 

areas of high-density dispersed recreational 

activity are the components of Concentrated 

Recreation Zones. Facilities are provided to 

enhance the quality of the recreational experience 

and/or to mitigate damage to the affected 

ecosystems. These areas also serve as “gateways” 

to the wide diversity of recreational opportunities 

on the remainder of the forest. 

3-24 
Desired Conditions: Provide and maintain high 

quality recreation sites in natural forested 

settings. 

Visitors will be able to choose from a variety 

of recreational experiences. Campgrounds, rifle 

ranges, picnic sites, boat ramps, river access 

sites, swimming beaches, interpretive sites, 

primitive camping areas, and trails provide a 

variety of enjoyable recreational experiences. 

Recreational information and interpretive 

programs enhance visitors’ experience. Access to 

fishing, hunting, trails, and nature study are 

provided. Outdoor skills are generally of little 

importance, except where knowledge of 

specialized activities (boating or horseback 

riding) is critical. Motorized access and their 

support facilities (i.e., roads, parking lots, or 

water access) will be provided, but some 

experiences (for example, walking, and viewing 

nature) will be non-motorized. The recreational 

opportunities are in roaded natural and rural 

settings. 

The landscape character is natural appearing 

with visitors enjoy a pleasing mosaic of tree 

species of various densities and stem forms, 

flowering trees, character trees and shrub 

species, park-like effects in the understory, fall 

color species, opportunities for photography, and 

minimal impacts from insect and disease 

outbreaks. 

These areas are in a variety of vegetative 

communities. The landscape character will be 

natural appearing with variations created by the 

recreational facilities. Over time, native 

hardwoods component of the piedmont forest 

recreation zones increase. Risk to visitors from 

hazard trees is minimal. Older forest communities 

are common and increase over time. 

Wildlife tolerant of high levels of human 

activity and open park-like conditions are 

commonly found in these areas. Sights and 

sounds of American robin (Turdus migratorius), 

chipping sparrow (Spizella passerina), northern 

mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos), cardinal 

(Cardinalis cardinalis), barn swallow (Hirwood 

rustica), gray squirrel, American crow (Corvus 

brachyrynchos), raccoon (Procyon lotor), and 

opossum (Didelphis virginiana) are evident in 

and around these sites. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription. 

Standards 

7.D.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic classes 1 and 2, moderate for 

inventoried scenic classes 3 through 5. 

7.D.-2 New federal mineral leases will contain a 

no surface occupancy stipulation. Mineral 

material authorizations with conditions to protect 

the recreational character may be permitted. 

7.D.-3 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

7.E.1. Dispersed Recreation Areas 

(Piedmont Only) 

12,575 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: Dispersed recreational demand is 

managed to provide the public with a variety of 

recreational opportunities in a setting that 

provides quality scenery, numerous trails, and 

limited facilities. 

Desired Condition: These areas include the 

foreground view shed of the Enoree, Tyger, and 

Broad Rivers on the Enoree Ranger District. 

These areas are approximately 1⁄4 mile from each 

side of the Enoree, Tyger, and Broad Rivers. 

Visitors may choose from a variety of high 

quality, well maintained dispersed recreational 

opportunities including, but not limited, to day 

hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, 

photography, canoeing, kayaking, boating, 

fishing, hunting, waterfowl hunting, dispersed 

camping, and nature study. Recreational 

information, interpretive trails, and self-guided 

programs enhance visitors’ experiences. Visitors 

will frequently see other people in some parts of 

3-25 
this area. Outdoor skills are of moderate 

importance. The recreational opportunities are in 

roaded natural and rural settings. 

The landscape character is natural appearing 

with visitors enjoying a pleasing mosaic of tree 

species of various densities and stem forms, 

flowering trees, character trees and shrub 

species, park-like effects in the understory, fall 

color species, opportunities for photography, and 

minimal impacts from insect and disease 

outbreaks. Prescribed fire is used to reduce fuel 

buildup, mimic natural disturbance, maintain 

pleasing open park-like views, and maintain and 

restore desired native communities. Additional 

open park-like woodland conditions may be 

developed to improve habitat conditions or views 

in the area. Tree harvest may be used to control 

insect infestation or disease, to remove salvage 

timber, to maintain moderate stand densities, to 

create small canopy gaps, or to create openings 

for canebrakes. Existing openings and linear 

strips may be found or new ones created to 

improve habitat conditions or views in the area. 

Native species are preferred but non-invasive, 

non-native species may be used when establishing 

food plants for wildlife.

 Road and river access is conveniently 

located within some parts of this area.

 Mature forests and older stands in various 

stages of climax canopy development and decline 

dominate habitat conditions provided by this 

prescription. Wildlife responsive to large 

diameter standing snags and living den trees 

(raccoon, barred owl, great-crested flycatcher, 

chickadee, etc.) would be expected here in high 

densities if adequate food supplies were 

available. High canopy species such as yellowthroated warbler and red-eyed vireo as well as 

species that use mid-story and well developed 

shrub layers in understory (thrushes, ovenbird, 

etc.) would also be expected in high densities. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription.

 Density of open roads and/or motorized 

vehicle trails remains near the current level 

throughout the planning period, with only small 

increases and decreases. 

Standards 

7.E.1.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic classes 1 and moderate for 

inventoried scenic classes 2 through 5. 

7.E.1.-2 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

7.E.2. Dispersed Recreation Areas 

with Vegetation Management 

61,938 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: These areas receive moderate to 

high recreational use and are managed to provide 

a variety of dispersed recreation opportunities, 

improve the settings for outdoor recreation, and 

enhance visitor experiences, in a manner that 

protects and restores the health, diversity, and 

productivity of the land. These areas provide a 

sustained yield of timber products; however, 

timber harvest methods used will be compatible 

with the recreational and aesthetic values of these 

suitable lands. 

Desired Condition: Visitors may choose from a 

variety of high quality, well maintained dispersed 

recreational opportunities that may include, but 

are not limited to, horseback riding, hiking, 

hunting, fishing, mountain bike riding, 

OHVriding, and nature study. Maintain, improve, 

or expand trails to meet local demands without 

negatively affecting the local ecosystem. These 

areas absorb moderate to high levels of use while 

protecting air, soil, vegetation, and water 

resource conditions. The recreational 

opportunities are in roaded natural and rural 

settings. A flow of wood products is provided to 

local economies.

 Forest management activities maintain the 

natural characteristics that make the area 

3-26 
popular. They include restoring native vegetative 

communities, creating permanent openings, 

establishing a pleasing mosaic of tree species of 

various densities and stem forms, feature 

flowering trees, character trees and shrub 

species, enhance fall color species, enhance both 

game and non-game wildlife habitat for viewing, 

photography and hunting, minimize impacts from 

insect and disease outbreaks and rehabilitate 

areas damaged by insects and disease. Pine 

stands are maintained at moderate to low 

densities (less than 100 square feet/acre basal 

area) to reduce susceptibility to southern pine 

beetle attack and promote understory 

development. Existing old fields and openings for 

wildlife may be present and maintained. 

Expansion of existing openings and linear strips 

or creation of new ones may occur to improve 

habitat conditions or views in the area. Native 

species are preferred but non-invasive, nonnative species may be used when establishing 

food plants for wildlife. Over time, the oak/ 

hickory component of the piedmont forest 

increases, especially within trail and road 

corridors. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription. 

In the mountains, Loblolly pine stands will be 

replaced over time with openings and native 

species including, woodlands or native forest 

types. Permanent openings, savanna to woodland 

conditions and oaks, hickories, shortleaf pine and 

pitch pine dominate locations previously 

occupied by loblolly pine. 

An intermediate mix of forest successional 

stages characterizes these areas. Mid-and latesuccessional forests are common, but 4 to 10 

percent of the forested land is in earlysuccessional forest conditions. Fifty percent of 

the forest acres are in mid-to late successional 

forests conditions. Within this 50 percent, at least 

20 percent are in late successional or old growth 

conditions 

Provide for tree diversity for current and 

future production of hard and soft mast and den 

trees. In addition, existing patches dominated by 

mast producing hardwoods, or scattered hard 

and soft mast or fruit producers, will be retained 

across the stand to the extent compatible with 

achieving desired conditions of open pine forests.

 Retain soft mast producing species 

(dogwood, black gum, hawthorn, grapes, 

serviceberry, etc.) during vegetative treatments 

to the extent compatible with meeting treatment 

objectives. 

This prescription provides habitat conditions 

for wild turkey, white-tailed deer, gray squirrels 

and other small mammals, tanagers, whip-poorwills and a variety of passerine birds.

 Prescribed fire is used to reduce fuel buildup, 

mimic natural disturbance, maintain pleasing 

open park-like views, create and maintain wildlife 

and plant habitat, and maintain and restore 

desired communities such as woodland 

conditions.

 Densities of open roads remain near current 

levels. 

Standards 

7.E.2.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic class 1 and moderate for 

inventoried scenic classes 2 through 5. 

7.E.2.-2 These lands are suitable for timber 

production. 

8.A.1. Mix of Successional Forest 

Habitats 

41,544 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: This area provides habitat for plants 

and animals associated with mid- to latesuccessional forest habitats. Management 

activities are designed to: (1) maintain a 

minimum of 50 percent of the forested acres in 

mid- to late-successional habitat, (2) maintain or 

enhance hard and soft mast production, (3) 

increase vegetative diversity (structural and 

spatial), and (4) limit motorized access across the 

prescription area. 

3-27 
Desired Condition: A full range of wildlife 

habitats is provided with most of the forested 

stands in this prescription in mid- to latesuccessional forest conditions. Develop and 

maintain high capacities for hard mast production 

across the landscape. Create and maintain 

woodland/savannah habitats on suitable sites. 

Hunting and wildlife viewing are emphasized 

recreation opportunities. A flow of wood 

products is provided to local economies.

 Forests 40+ years of age dominate the 

landscape, occupying 50 percent or more of the 

prescription area. These forested stands will be 

maintained in more open forest conditions than 

currently exists, with an emphasis on oak and 

hickory mast production on appropriate sites, 

i.e., oaks and hickories with large, welldeveloped crowns. 

An intermediate mix of forest successional 

stages characterizes these areas. Mid-and latesuccessional forests are common, but 4 to 10 

percent of the forested land is in earlysuccessional forest conditions. Fifty percent of 

the forest acres are in mid-to late- successional 

forests conditions. Within this 50 percent, at least 

20 percent are in late successional or old growth 

conditions. Additional areas will be maintained in 

open woodland, savanna habitat conditions.

 On ridges, south and west facing slopes, and 

in pine, pine-oak, oak-pine or oak forest types, 

most of the stands in mid-to late-successional 

forest conditions will be maintained as 

moderately stocked, with a desirable level of 60 

to100 square feet of basal area, and open crown 

conditions. Older trees will occur as individuals 

and inclusions in these stands to retain high 

canopy, late successional habitat characteristics.

 Loblolly pine stands will be replaced over 

time with more native habitats including 

openings, woodlands, or native forest types. 

Permanent openings, savanna to woodland 

conditions and oaks, hickories, shortleaf pine and 

pitch pine dominate locations previously 

occupied by loblolly pine.

 Sweetgum will be discouraged for future 

production of hard and soft mast and den trees. 

In addition, existing patches dominated by mast 

producing hardwoods, or scattered hard and soft 

mast or fruit producers, will be retained across 

the stand to the extent compatible with achieving 

desired conditions of open pine forests.

 Soft mast producing species (dogwood, black 

gum, hawthorn, grapes, serviceberry, etc.) 

remains during vegetative treatments to the 

extent compatible with meeting treatment 

objectives

 Habitats in this prescription are weighted 

towards mid-to late-successional forest 

conditions in a forested landscape that includes 

young forested stands, grass/shrubland openings 

and woodland/savanna conditions. Principal 

beneficiaries of this management approach would 

favor species such as pileated woodpecker, redeyed vireo, and Eastern wood peewee. With the 

emphasis on hard mast, all species that consume 

acorns and hickory nuts (squirrels, turkey, deer, 

raccoon, black bear, etc.) would also benefit. 

Well developed crowns and multi-layered 

canopies within mature forest stands benefit most 

breeding forest-dwelling birds, i.e., black-andwhite warbler (Mniotilta yaria), wood thrush 

(Hylocichla mustrlina), vireos, flycatchers, and 

northern flicker (Colaptes auratus), and are 

extremely important to a majority of neotropical 

migrants that pass through the Sumter in the 

spring and fall. 

The compliment of early successional habitat 

in a landscape dominated by mature forest in this 

prescription is important to species such as 

prairie warbler, yellow-breasted chat, Bobwhite 

quail, Swainson’s warbler, ruffed grouse, wild 

turkey, white-tailed deer, and a variety of small 

mammals. Existing old fields and openings for 

wildlife may be present and maintained. Existing 

openings and linear strips may be expanded, and/ 

or new openings may be present and maintained. 

Additional open, park-like woodland conditions 

may be developed to improve habitat conditions 

in the area. Native species are preferred but noninvasive non-native species may be used when 

establishing food plants for wildlife. Permanent 

forest openings, woodland, and savanna 

conditions with a well developed herbaceous 

layer, to a grass/shrub dominated area with 

3-28 
scattered trees will benefit several other species 

of wildlife. These species include Bachman’s 

sparrow, American kestrel, red-tailed hawk, 

Cooper’s hawk, eastern cottontail, fox, cotton 

mouse, eastern bluebird, and mourning dove. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

foundin Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription.

 Prescribed fire plays an important role in 

maintaining forest openings, woodland 

conditions, and many forested communities. 

Prescribed fire encourages oak sprouting and 

reduces competition from more shade tolerant 

species, creates conditions for developing an 

uneven canopy which stimulates shrubs as well as 

mid-story development and forage production, 

restores and maintains habitat for federallyendangered smooth coneflower, restores and 

maintains habitat for sensitive species such as 

Fraser’s loosestrife and sun-facing coneflower. 

Prescribed fire may also be used to reduce fuel 

build up and the risk of wildfire.

 Recreational opportunities in this area 

include, but are not limited to, driving for 

pleasure, day hiking, mountain biking, horseback 

riding, dispersed camping, backpacking, hunting, 

fishing, rock climbing, nature study, viewing, and 

photographing scenery. Trails through this area 

are well marked and may include features for 

visitors with special access needs, loop systems, 

and/or interpretive programs. Facilities within 

these areas may include portable or permanent 

toilets, trash receptacles, fire grills, signs, or 

vehicle barriers, but are generally rare and are 

only provided for health and sanitation or to 

protect the area from resource damage. The 

landscape character of the area appears natural. 

The sights and sounds of other visitors and 

motorized vehicles may be present. The 

opportunity to encounter other visitors is high 

along roadways, at parking areas, pullouts, and 

overlooks, but may be moderate to low on trails 

away from congregated use areas. At points of 

highly developed recreational use, visitors take 

on low risk and are not challenged to rely on 

their own physical abilities and outdoor skills. 

Once away from the more developed areas, 

opportunities for solitude are available. In these 

more remote areas, visitors may take on some 

risk and be challenged to rely on their own 

personal physical abilities and primitive 

recreational skills. The recreational opportunities 

are in roaded natural and rural settings.

 Open road densities may decrease over the 

planning period. Roads that are unneeded or are 

causing undesirable resource impacts may be 

closed. 

Standards 

8.A.1.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic class 1 and moderate for 

inventoried scenic class 2 and low for inventoried 

scenic classes 3 through 5. 

8.A.1.-2 These lands are suitable for timber 

production. 

8.B.2. Woodland and Grassland/ 

Savanna Habitats 

8,320 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: This area emphasizes providing 

optimal to suitable habitat for a variety of upland 

game species and plant and animal populations 

associated with early successional habitats. Open 

park-like woodlands and savannas with 

herbaceous ground cover are found. 

Management activities are designed to (1) sustain 

a distribution of early successional habitat 

conditions interspersed throughout a forested 

landscape, (2) restore areas of native warm 

season grasses and maintain open, forb and 

grass-dominated groundcover, (3) optimize hard 

and soft mast production, and (4) control access 

to protect habitat when necessary. 

Desired Condition: Create and maintain 

woodland habitats (very open forests with low 

tree densities) and grassland/savanna habitat. 

Improve, restore, and maintain habitats for fireadapted communities and species. 

3-29 
 Fire-adapted species are common in 

groundcover and the overstory.

 Grassland and savanna to woodland conditions 

are common in small to large patches in this area 

and collectively dominate the landscape. Annual 

and perennial herbaceous plants dominate ground 

cover. Habitats for sun-loving species such as 

smooth coneflower, sun-facing coneflower, and 

others are improved and expanded to their 

natural extent. 

Woodland conditions are characteristically 

found on areas that are frequently maintained 

with prescribed fire. Woodlands have relatively 

low tree densities of 25 to 60 percent forest 

cover. Young forests are likely to have higher 

densities. Trees in the overstory will vary in age, 

diameter, and species composition. Scattered 

clumps of mast producing hardwoods occur 

throughout. Shortleaf pine is desirable in places 

where littleleaf disease is not likely to adversely 

affect it. 

A mix of forest successional stages 

characterizes these areas, with an emphasis on 

early-successional forests. Mid- and latesuccessional forests are common, but in stands 

not managed as woodland, grassland or savanna 

habitats 10 to 17 percent of the remaining 

forested land is in early-successional forest 

conditions. A flow of wood products is provided 

to local economies. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription. 

Prescribed fire is an essential feature of this 

management prescription. It creates, shapes, and 

maintains the desired herbaceous understory and 

the remaining overstory in upland stands. It 

limits the establishment of woody stems in the 

understory. Fire frequency is 1 to 3 years in the 

uplands. 

The emphasis on developing and maintaining 

open forest woodland to savanna and grassland 

habitats with scattered trees produces ideal 

habitats for northern Bobwhite quail, cottontail 

rabbit, bluebird, turkey, deer, sparrows, rodents, 

raptors, and bats. The combination of open 

conditions on suitable sites, forested draws, and 

moist slopes not responsive to burning produce 

unique habitat conditions particularly suited for 

animals such as Indigo bunting, blue-grosbeak, 

orioles, American kestrel, fox, and mourning 

dove. Existing old fields and openings for wildlife 

may be present and maintained. Expansion of 

existing openings and linear strips or creation of 

new ones may occur to improve habitat 

conditions or views in the area. Native species 

are preferred but non-invasive non-native species 

may be used when establishing food plants for 

wildlife. 

Sweetgum will be discouraged to provide 

additional diversity for current and future 

production of hard and soft mast and den trees. 

In addition, existing patches dominated by mast 

producing hardwoods, or scattered hard and soft 

mast or fruit producers, will be retained across 

the landscape to the extent compatible with 

achieving desired conditions of open pine forests.

 Retain soft mast-producing species 

(dogwood, black gum, hawthorn, grapes, 

serviceberry, etc.) during vegetative treatments 

to the extent compatible with meeting treatment 

objectives. 

The landscape character appears 

natural.These areas provide a variety of 

recreational opportunities, especially hunting. 

Hunting opportunities are some of the best 

available on the Sumter National Forest, most 

notably for upland game. Wildlife viewing 

opportunities are plentiful. The recreational 

opportunities are in roaded natural and rural 

settings.

 Open road density may decrease over the 

planning period. Roads that are unneeded or are 

causing undesirable resource impacts are closed. 

Standards 

8.B.2.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic class 1 and moderate for 

inventoried scenic class 2 and low for inventoried 

scenic classes 3 through 5. 

8.B.2.-2 OHVs are not permitted. 

3-30
8.B.2.-3 These lands are suitable for timber 

production. 

9.A.3. Watershed Restoration 

Areas 

11,360 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: Management emphasis is on 

improving conditions where past land uses have 

degraded water quality or soil productivity. The 

long-term goal of these watersheds is to 

showcase restored and resilient watersheds 

where proper multiple use management practices 

are applied. When this goal is achieved, these 

watersheds are allocated to a different 

management prescription. 

Desired Condition: These areas have 

experienced severe erosion in past years. Steep 

side slopes are allowed to continue healing. 

Areas with active erosion are restored with soil 

and water rehabilitation work to improve soil 

productivity and water quality.

 Soil productivity and cover are satisfactory, 

and erosion is limited. Barren areas (galls) or 

actively eroding gullies and stream banks are 

stabilized or restored whenever possible. Some 

of the methods used to stabilize and restore these 

areas may involve intense ground disturbing 

activities with temporary to short-term effects. 

Exposed soil is seldom seen. The forested 

drains would remain essentially intact over time 

unless gully restoration activities require 

reshaping the land to stop unacceptable erosion.

 Upland forest canopies are maintained at 

moderate to low densities to encourage a dense 

understory of shrubs, warm season grasses, and 

other herbaceous species. Over time there is an 

increased oak/hickory component. Permanent 

openings are retained and occupy 1 to 2 percent 

of the area. An intermediate mix of forest 

successional stages characterizes these areas. 

Mid- and late-successional forests are common, 

but 4 to 10 percent of the forested land is in 

early-successional forest conditions. Fifty percent 

of the forest is in mid- to late- successional forest 

conditions and within this 50 percent, at least 10 

percent is in late successional or old growth 

conditions. Pine stands are maintained at 

moderate to low densities (less than 100 square 

feet/acre basal area) to reduce susceptibility to 

southern pine beetle attack and promote 

understory development. A flow of wood 

products is provided to local economies. 

The emphasis of this prescription would 

create two distinct combinations of habitat 

conditions interlaced across the landscape. Most 

forest dwelling species are found in this 

prescription. The shrubby and herbaceous ground 

cover encourages eastern bluebird (Sialia sialis) 

red-bellied woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus), 

brown-headed nuthatch (Sitta pusilla) Carolina 

wren (Thryothorus ludovicianus), eastern wild 

turkey (Melearia gallopavo), white-tailed deer 

(Odocoileus virginianus), and white-eyed vireo 

(Vireo griseus). The closed canopy forested 

portions of this area support varying densities of 

red-eyed vireo, great crested flycatcher, pileated 

woodpecker, gray squirrel, a variety of migratory 

birds, and small mammals. As consistent with 

watershed protection goals, existing openings 

and linear strips may be expanded or new ones 

created to improve habitat conditions or views in 

the area. Native species are preferred but noninvasive non-native species may be used when 

establishing food plants for wildlife. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription. 

Sweetgum is discouraged to provide for 

future production of hard and soft mast and den 

trees. In addition, existing patches dominated by 

mast producing hardwoods, or scattered hard 

and soft mast or fruit producers, are retained 

across the stand to the extent compatible with 

achieving desired conditions of open pine forests.

 Soft mast producing species (dogwood, black 

gum, hawthorn, grapes, serviceberry, persimmon, 

etc.) are retained during vegetative treatments to 

the extent compatible with meeting treatment 

objectives 

3-31 
 Prescribed fire is used to maintain PETS 

habitats.

 Open road densities may decrease over the 

planning period. Roads that are unneeded or are 

causing undesirable resource impacts may be 

closed.

 People use these areas for hunting or other 

dispersed recreational activities. Recreational 

opportunities in this area include, but are not 

limited to, driving for pleasure, day hiking, 

dispersed camping, backpacking, hunting, 

fishing, nature study, mountain biking, viewing 

and photographing scenery. The landscape 

character of the area appears natural. 

The recreational opportunities are in roaded 

natural and rural settings. 

Standards 

9.A.3.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic class 1 and moderate for 

inventoried scenic classes 2 through 5. 

9.A.3.-2 No new OHV routes. 

9.A.3.-3 These lands are suitable for timber 

production. 

9.F. Rare Communities 

916 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: Rare communities are assemblages 

of plants and animals that occupy a small portion 

of the landscape, but contribute significantly to 

plant and animal diversity. They generally are 

limited in number of occurrences, are small in 

size, and have relatively discrete boundaries. 

Rare communities, wherever they occur on the 

Sumter, will be managed under this prescription 

to ensure their contribution to meeting goals for 

community diversity, endangered and threatened 

species recovery, and species viability. All known 

rare community sites are allocated to this 

prescription. As new rare community sites are 

found, they will be added to this prescription 

without Forest Plan amendment, unless such 

additions would result in large shifts in land 

allocation or expected benefits and outputs. 

Desired Condition: Rare communities exhibit 

the composition, structure, and function 

necessary to support vigorous populations of 

species characteristic of the community, including 

relevant federally-listed threatened and 

endangered species, and species at risk of losing 

viability. Ecological disturbances are at the 

frequency and intensity needed to maintain 

desired composition, structure, and function. 

Generally, natural forces are sufficient to 

maintain these conditions; however, in some 

cases environmental factors have changed to the 

extent that natural processes are prevented or 

hindered from maintaining the community. In 

these cases management activities used to restore 

or maintain desired conditions, such as 

prescribed burning or vegetation management, 

may be evident. 

Beyond restoration and maintenance 

activities, human-caused alteration of rare 

communities is not evident. Signs and barriers 

may limit recreational access where necessary to 

protect community integrity. Interpretive signs or 

other information may be made available where it 

is likely to promote public knowledge of rare 

communities and improve community protection. 

These naturally evolving or natural-appearing 

communities are characterized by a variety of 

forested and nonforested communities, ranging 

from granitic domes, to table mountain pine 

woodlands and ephemeral wetlands. (See 

description of communities.) Old growth forest 

conditions will often develop within many of the 

communities in future years; however, some of 

the rare communities may require active 

restoration and maintenance using prescribed fire 

and/or mid-story removal. 

This prescription area encompasses a wide 

variety of habitat conditions, from deep rich 

coves, to natural barrens and glades, to caves and 

rock cliffs. Wildlife and plants found in these 

areas are a combination of species commonly 

found across the forest (warblers, vireos, 

3-32
squirrels, bats, etc.) and species that are almost 

always found in or near these specialized habitats 

(wood rat, coneflower, etc.). Existing old fields 

and wildlife openings are not maintained but are 

allowed to succeed to forest. In some cases, tree 

planting and elimination of non-native species 

may obliterate existing openings. New permanent 

wildlife openings are not created. 

Aquatic and riparian protection 

measuresfound in Riparian Prescription 11 apply 

to this prescription. 

Access is primarily by a non-motorized trail 

system. Interpretive signs or other information 

may be available to promote public knowledge of 

rare communities and improve community 

protection.The recreational opportunities are in 

roaded natural and rural settings. Motorized 

access is limited to existing roads and open road 

density is likely to decrease in the future. The 

landscape character of the area is natural 

evolving to natural appearing. 

The following rare communities are covered 

by this prescription: 

Wetland Communities 

Appalachian Highlands Bogs, Fens, Seeps, 

and Ponds—These rare communities are 

characterized by 1) soils that are semipermanently to permanently saturated as a result 

of groundwater seepage, perched water tables, 

rainfall, or beaver activity, but otherwise are 

generally nonalluvial, and 2) presence of 

wetland-associated species such as sphagnum, 

ferns, and sedges. Dominant vegetation may be 

herbs, shrubs, trees, or some complex of the 

three. Ponds in this group include lime sink, 

karst, and depression ponds, which may hold 

areas of shallow open water for significant 

portions of the year. Also included are some 

impoundments and associated wetlands resulting 

from beaver activity. Artificial impoundments are 

not included, unless they support significant 

populations or associations of species at risk. 

These communities may be found in both the 

Appalachian and piedmont regions. Primary 

management needs are protection from nontarget management disturbance and resource 

impacts, particularly to local hydrology. Periodic 

vegetation management may be necessary to 

maintain desired herbaceous and/or shrubby 

composition at some sites. These communities 

include mafic and calcareous fens, sphagnum and 

shrub bogs, swamp forest-bog complexes, 

mountain ponds, seasonally dry sinkhole ponds, 

and beaver pond and wetland complexes as 

defined in the Southern Appalachian Assessment 

and rare associations within the following 

ecological groups defined by NatureServe 

(2001a): 

458-15 Appalachian Highlands Wooded 

Depression Ponds 

470-10 Appalachian Highlands Forested 

Bogs 

470-20 Appalachian Highlands Forested 

Acid Seeps 

475-10 Appalachian Highlands Acid 

Herbaceous Seeps 

475-30 Appalachian and Interior 

Highlands Herbaceous Depression 

Ponds and Pondshores 

Appalachian Highlands Riverine 

Vegetation—These rare communities are 

characterized by 1) sites adjacent to or within 

stream channels that are exposed to periodic 

flooding and scour, and 2) presence of significant 

populations or associations of species at risk. 

These communities may be found in both 

Appalachian and piedmont regions. Primary 

management needs are protection from 

disturbance during development of road 

crossings, and maintaining desirable in-stream 

flows. These communities include river gravelcobble bars as defined in the Southern 

Appalachian Assessment, and the rare 

associations within the following ecological 

groups defined by NatureServe (2001a): 

457-10 Appalachian Highlands Riverine 

Vegetation

457-30 Rocky Riverbeds

40-40 Appalachian Highlands

Riverscour Vegetation 

3-33 
20-20 Appalachian Highlands Small 

Stream and Lower Slope Forest 

420-xx Appalachian Highlands Large 

River Floodplain Forest 

Forest Communities 

Table Mountain Pine Forest and Woodland— 

This community is characterized by a dominant 

or significant component of table mountain pine 

(Pinus pungens) in the overstory often in 

combination with pitch pine (Pinus rigida). It is 

found in the Appalachian region. Primary 

management needs are maintaining and 

expanding existing occurrences, using thinning 

and prescribed fire. This community corresponds 

to table mountain pine/pitch pine woodlands as 

defined in the Southern Appalachian Assessment, 

and all associations within the following 

ecological group defined by NatureServe 

(2001a): 

401-80 Appalachian Highlands Pitch and 

Table Mountain Pine Woodlands 

Basic Mesic Forests—These communities are 

characterized by complex multi-storied canopies 

comprised of deciduous overstories and rich and 

diverse understories of calciphilic herbs, 

underlain by high-base geological substrates. On 

moderate to high elevation sites, these 

communities are typically found in protected 

coves, and can be distinguished from more acidic 

mesic cove forests by the abundance of species 

such as white basswood (Tilia americana), 

yellow buckeye (Aesculus flava), black walnut 

(Juglans nigra), faded trillium (Trillium 

discolor), sweet white trillium (Trillium simile), 

black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa), blue 

cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides), whorled 

horsebalm (Collinsonia verticillata), mock 

orange (Philadelphus inodorus), sweet shrub 

(Calycanthus floridus), sweet cicely (Ozmorhiza 

spp.), doll’s eyes (Actaea racemosa), maidenhair 

fern (Adiantum pedatum), and plantain-leaved 

sedge (Carex plantaginea). Good examples of 

moderate and high elevation basic mesic forests 

have a low incidence of white pine (Pinus 

strobus), eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), 

rhododendron (Rhododendron spp.), and 

Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides). An 

oak-dominated variant of moderate to high 

elevation basic mesic forest occurs over 

limestone on upper to mid slopes of the Interior 

Plateau of Tennessee, the Cumberlands of 

Alabama, and the Ridge and Valley of Georgia. 

This basic mesic community is dominated or co 

dominated by shumard oak (Quercus shumardii) 

or chinquapin oak (Quercus muehlenbergii), in 

combination with various species of oaks and 

hickories and either sugar maple (Acer 

saccharum), chalk maple (Acer leucoderme), or 

southern sugar maple (Acer barbatum). Typical 

calciphilic understory species also are present. 

On lower elevation sites, these communities are 

more typically found on north slopes, where 

dominant and characteristic overstory species are 

American beech (Fagus grandifolia) and 

northern red oak (Quercus rubra), with tulip 

poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera), white oak 

(Quercus alba), shagbark hickory (Carya ovata), 

or white ash (Fraxinus americana), with 

southern sugar maple, chalk maple, painted 

buckeye (Aesculus sylvatica), and pawpaw 

(Asimina triloba) in the midstory and shrub 

layers, and understories that include faded 

trillium, nodding trillium (Trillium rugelii), black 

cohosh, doll’s eyes, foam flower (Tiarella 

cordifolia var. collina), bloodroot (Sanguinaria 

canadensis), bellworts (Uvularia sp.) and trout 

lilies (Erythronium spp.). Good examples of low 

elevation basic mesic forests have a low 

incidence of sweetgum (Liquidambar 

styraciflua), loblolly pine (Pinus taeda), and 

non-natives such as Japanese honeysuckle 

(Lonicera japonica) or Chinese privet 

(Lingustrum vulgare). Basic mesic forest 

communities are found in both the Appalachian 

and piedmont regions. Provisions of the rare 

community prescription apply only to prime 

examples of this community that support 

significant populations or associations of species 

of viability concern. Primary management needs 

are protection from non-target management 

disturbance. This community includes the 

3-34 
following associations defined by NatureServe 

(2001a, 2001b): 

CEGL007711 Southern Appalachian

 Cove Forest (Rich 

Foothills Type), 

CEGL007695 Southern Appalachian 

Cove Forest (Rich 

Montane Type),

 CEGL008466 Basic Piedmont Mesic 

Mixed Hardwood Forest 

CEGL004542 Piedmont Rocky Mesic 

Mafic Forest. 

Cliffs and Rock Outcrops 

Cliffs and Bluffs—Steep, rocky, sparsely 

vegetated slopes, usually above streams or rivers, 

characterize these communities. Cliff 

communities may be dry or wet, and include 

communities associated with waterfalls, such as 

spray cliffs and rock houses. These communities 

are found in the Appalachian region. Primary 

management needs are protection from 

management disturbance and maintenance of 

hydrology near wet cliffs. This community 

includes calcareous cliffs, mafic cliffs, sandstone 

cliffs, and spray cliffs as defined in the Southern 

Appalachian Assessment, and all associations 

within the following ecological groups as defined 

by NatureServe (2001a): 

430-40 Eastern Dry Acid Cliffs 

430-45 Eastern Moist Acid Cliffs 

430-50 Eastern Dry Alkaline Cliffs 

Rock Outcrops—Significant areas of exposed, 

usually smooth, exfoliating granite or related 

rocks, with scattered vegetation mats and 

abundant lichens characterize these communities. 

These communities are found in both the 

Appalachian and piedmont regions. Primary 

management needs are protection from nontarget 

management disturbance and recreational 

impacts. This community includes granitic dome 

and granitic flatrock as defined in the Southern 

Appalachian Assessment, and all associations 

within the following ecological groups defined by 

NatureServe (2001a): 

435-10 Appalachian Highlands Granitic 

Domes 

435-20 Appalachian Highlands Grantic 

Flatrock 

Other Communities 

Glades, Barrens, and Associated 

Woodlands—These communities are 

characterized by thin soils and exposed parent 

material that result in localized complexes of bare 

soil and rock, herbaceous and/or shrubby 

vegetation, and thin, often stunted woods. 

During wet periods, they may include scattered 

shallow pools or areas of seepage. They vary 

widely in species composition depending on the 

type of underlying parent material. They differ 

from rock outcrop communities by exhibiting 

some level of soil and vegetation over most of 

the site. Field delineations should include the 

entire complex of characteristic vegetation 

composition and structure. These communities 

may be found in both Appalachian and piedmont 

regions. Primary management needs are 

protection from nontarget management 

disturbance and recreational impacts. Periodic 

vegetation management, especially prescribed 

fire, may be necessary to maintain or restore 

desired herbaceous and/or shrubby composition. 

These communities include calcareous 

woodlands and glades, mafic woodlands and 

glades, serpentine woodlands and glades, and 

shale barrens as defined in the Southern 

Appalachian Assessment, and the rare 

associations within the following ecological 

groups as defined by NatureServe (2001a): 

401-17 Appalachian Highlands 

Calcareous/Circumneutral DryMesic Hardwood Forests and 

Woodlands 

440-40 Appalachian Shale Glades and 

Barrens 

80-80 Appalachian Mafic Igneous/ 

Metamorphic Glades and Barrens 

3-35 
12-12 Appalachian Highlands Xeric 

Hardpan Forests and Woodlands 

12-13 Appalachian Highlands Dry Mesic 

Oak Forests and Woodlands 

401-xx Appalachian Highlands Unstable 

Substrate Woodlands 

Canebrakes—This community is characterized 

by almost monotypic stands of giant or switch 

cane (Arundinaria gigantea), usually with no or 

low densities of overstory tree canopy. It is 

typically found in bottomlands or stream terraces. 

Although cane is found commonly as an 

understory component on these sites, provisions 

of the Rare Community Prescription apply only 

to larger patches (generally greater than 0.25 

acres) exhibiting high densities that result in 

nearly monotypic conditions, or to areas selected 

for restoration of such conditions. This 

community is found in the Appalachian, 

piedmont, and coastal plain regions. Primary 

management needs are restoration and 

maintenance through overstory reduction and 

periodic prescribed fire. Although several 

associations described by NatureServe (2001a, 

2001b) include cane as a major component, this 

community most closely corresponds to: 

CEGL003836 Floodplain Canebrake 

Mines—This community is characterized by 

natural and human-made openings in the ground 

that extend beyond the zone of light, creating 

sites buffered in relation to the outside 

environment. Included are karst and sinkhole 

features that lead to such subterranean 

environments. Provisions of the Rare 

Community Prescription apply only to those sites 

supporting cave-associated species. This 

community is found in the Appalachian region. 

Primary management needs are protection from 

non-target management disturbance and 

recreational impacts, and maintaining quality of 

water flowing into underground streams. 

Standards 

9.F.-1 The scenic integrity objective is very high 

to high for inventoried scenic class 1 and high for 

inventoried scenic class 2 and moderate for 

scenic classes 3 through 5. 

9.F.-2 Rare communities are protected from 

detrimental effects caused by management 

actions. An exception may be made for beaver 

ponds on a case-by-case basis where conflicts 

with aquatic PETS, trout or safety, health, and 

infrastructure (roads, buildings, culverts, 

developed sites) are known to occur. 

Management activities occur within rare 

communities only where maintenance or 

restoration of rare community composition, 

structure, or function is needed. 

9.F.-3 Where recreational or other uses are 

negatively affecting rare communities, sites are 

modified to reduce or eliminate negative effects. 

New recreational developments are designed to 

avoid adverse effects to rare communities 

9.F.-4 Management actions that may adversely 

alter the hydrologic conditions of wetland rare 

communities are prohibited. Such actions 

include construction of roads, plowed or bladed 

firelines, and impoundments in or near these 

communities. Exceptions are made for actions 

designed to control impacts caused by beavers, 

activities designed to manage water levels to 

expand or maintain wetland communities, or 

where needed to control fires to provide for 

public and employee safety and to protect private 

land resources. 

9.F.-5 Introducing fish into wetland rare 

communities is prohibited. An exception may be 

made for beaver ponds on a case-by-case basis. 

9.F.-6 New federal mineral leases will contain a 

no surface occupancy (NSO) stipulation. 

9.F.-7 No mineral material operations are 

allowed. 

3-36 
9.F.-8 Non-native invasive species are controlled 

where they are causing adverse effects to rare 

communities. Non-native invasive species are 

not introduced in or near rare communities. 

9.F.-9 In proximity to rich cove communities (basic 

mesic), limit the direct application of fire on northand east-facing slopes, allowing low intensity fires 

only. Avoid the use of fire on these sites when 

conditions are droughty. 

9.F.-10 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

9.F.-11. OHVs, mountain bikes and horses are 

not permitted. 

9.G.2 Restoration of Upland OakHickory and Mixed Pine-OakHickory Forests 

43,080 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: Restore and maintain upland oakhickory and mixed oak-hickory-pine forest. 

Desired Condition: These areas contain 

primarily oak-hickory and oak-hickory-pine 

forests. Fire-maintained woodlands and savannas, 

and mixed mesophytic forests occur as a minor 

component of the landscape. 

Short-term. Advanced oak and/or hickory 

regeneration occurs as seedlings or saplings in 

the understory of loblolly pine stands. Loblolly 

pine stands are manipulated to encourage oaks 

and hickory, yet suppress loblolly pine growth 

and regeneration. Stand densities are moderate to 

low (60 to 80 square feet/acre basal area) to 

encourage oak and hickory seedling 

development, to maintain larger crowns for mast 

production, to reduce susceptibility to southern 

pine beetle attack and to promote understory 

development. The trees will be larger and more 

widely spaced, and understory hardwoods will be 

more developed. In the short-term, oak and 

hickory may comprise a minor component of the 

forest composition, accompanied by loblolly 

pine, sweetgum, red maple, yellow poplar, and 

dogwood. An intermediate mix of forest 

successional stages characterizes these areas. 

Mid-and late-successional forests are common, 

but 4 to 10 percent of the forested land is in 

early-successional forest conditions. Fifty 

percent of the forest acres are in mid-to latesuccessional forests conditions and within this 50 

percent, at least 20 percent are in late 

successional or old growth conditions. Where 

compatible with other multiple-use objectives, 

early-successional forest created by management 

actions is clustered on the landscape to maintain 

blocks of mid- and late- successional forest.

 In the long-term, oaks, hickories, and pines 

dominate most sites. Sweetgum, red maple, and 

yellow poplar comprise a minor component.

 Management activities in this prescription 

provide a flow of wood products to local 

economies. 

This management approach would favor 

species such as pileated woodpecker, red-eyed 

vireo, and Eastern wood peewee. With the 

emphasis on hard mast, this approach will also 

favor all species that consume acorns and hickory 

nuts (squirrels, turkey, deer, raccoon, etc.). Welldeveloped crowns and multi-layered canopies 

within mature forest stands would be most 

beneficial to most breeding forest-dwelling birds, 

i.e., black-and-white warbler, wood thrush, 

vireos, flycatchers, and flicker. Existing openings 

and linear strips may be expanded or new ones 

created to improve habitat conditions or views in 

the area. Native species are preferred but noninvasive non-native species may be used when 

establishing food plants for wildlife. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription.

 Prescribed fire will be used periodically to 

maintain or to restore the desired composition.

 Density of open roads remains near the 

current level throughout the planning area. 

The landscape character is generally natural 

appearing. The sights and sounds of human 

activities, especially motorized uses along main 

3-37 
travel corridors, are evident in many parts of 

these areas. Visitors frequently see other people 

in some parts of these areas. Motorized access is 

available to many places. Non-motorized trails 

are also available, and in some cases, motorized 

trails are available. Hunting and wildlife and plant 

viewing are common activities. The recreational 

opportunities are in roaded natural and rural 

settings. 

Standards 

9.G.2.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic class 1 and moderate for 

inventoried scenic class 2 and low for scenic 

classes 3 through 5. 

9.G.2.-2 Only use site preparation methods that 

promote oak/hickory regeneration. 

9.G.2.-3 These lands are suitable for timber 

production. 

10.B. High Quality Forest 

Products (Piedmont Only) 

139,528 acres (approximate) 

Emphasis: This prescription is applied to lands 

capable of producing high quality, valuable 

sawtimber. Timber stand improvement and 

regeneration harvest methods that best provide 

for the growth and harvest of high quality, 

valuable sawtimber that is most in demand in the 

marketplace are applied. Opportunities are also 

provided for other high value forest products. 

Desired Condition: Grow and sell saw log size 

timber (pine and hardwood) in a sustained 

manner on upland sites. Where opportunities 

exist, the oak and hickory component is 

expanded. 

The predominant species are loblolly pine and 

mixtures of loblolly pine and hardwoods. 

Encourage mast-producing species as a 

component of pine stands. Shortleaf pine (Pinus 

echinata) is desirable in places where littleleaf 

disease is not likely to adversely affect it. Across 

the landscape one sees trees of various ages and 

sizes. Individual stands are likely to have 

somewhat uniform heights and diameters. As 

markets allow, pine stands are maintained at 

moderate densities (less than 100 square feet/acre 

basal area) to reduce susceptibility to southern 

pine beetle attack, and to encourage development 

of larger diameter trees. Pulpwood, fuelwood, 

and other low value forest products are produced 

to maintain moderate densities and as secondary 

products in sawtimber harvests. 

A mix of forest successional stages 

characterizes these areas, with an emphasis on 

early-successional forests. Mid- and latesuccessional forests are common, but 10 to 17 

percent of forested land is in early-successional 

forest conditions. Twenty percent of the forest is 

in mid-to late-successional forest conditions and 

within this 20 percent at least 10 percent is in late 

successional or old growth conditions. Relatively 

equal areas are in each 10-year age class.Where 

opportunities exist, the oak and hickory 

component is expanded. Additional open, parklike woodland conditions may be developed to 

improve habitat conditions in the area. Existing 

openings and linear strips may be expanded or 

new ones created to improve habitat conditions 

or views in the area. Native species are preferred 

but non-invasive non-native species may be used 

when establishing food plants for wildlife.

 Sweetgum will be discriminated against in 

order to provide for additional tree diversity for 

current and future production of hard and soft 

mast and den trees. In addition, existing patches 

dominated by mast producing hardwoods, or 

scattered hard and soft mast or fruit producers, 

will be retained across the stand to the extent 

compatible with achieving desired conditions of 

open pine forests.

 Soft mast producing species (dogwood, black 

gum, hawthorn, grapes, serviceberry, etc.) are 

retained during vegetative treatments to the 

extent compatible with meeting treatment 

objectives. 

3-38 
 For wildlife, this prescription balances 

objectives for providing a range of habitat 

conditions. Animals that use a variety of habitats 

(white-tailed deer, wild turkey, gray squirrel, 

woodpeckers, and migrating neotropical birds) 

benefit and are found in high densities in this 

prescription. Species that prefer more mature 

forest conditions and species that prefer more 

grassland/shrubland habitats would also be found 

in noticeable numbers throughout this area. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription.

 Prescribed fire is likely to be used for fuel 

reduction, wildlife habitat objectives, and PETS 

habitat improvement in the uplands. 

The landscape character generally appears 

natural. The recreational opportunities are in 

roaded natural and rural settings. These areas are 

very accessible and provide a variety of 

recreational opportunities, foremost of which is 

hunting.

 Density of open roads remains near the 

current level throughout the planning period, 

with only small increases and decreases. 

Additional roads may be needed to provide 

environmentally suitable access for management 

activities, but may be closed to public use. 

Objectives 

10.B-OBJ-1 Provide local economies with 47– 

74 MMCF of wood products annually. 

Standards 

10.B.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic class 1 and moderate for 

inventoried scenic class 2 and low for scenic 

classes 3 through 5. 

10.B.-2 These lands are suitable for timber 

production. 

11. Riparian Corridors

 (62,524 acres embedded in adjoining 

prescriptions) 

Emphasis: Riparian corridors will be managed to 

retain, restore and/or enhance the inherent 

ecological processes and functions of the 

associated aquatic, riparian, and upland 

components within the corridor. 

Desired Conditions for the Riparian 

Corridor: Riparian corridors reflect the physical 

structure, biological components, and ecological 

processes that sustain aquatic, riparian, and 

associated upland functions and values. 

Primarily, natural processes (floods, erosion, 

seasonal water table fluctuations, etc.) will 

modify most of the areas within the riparian 

corridor. However, management activities may be 

used to provide terrestrial or aquatic habitat 

improvement, favor recovery of native 

vegetation, control insect infestation and disease, 

comply with legal requirements (e.g., 

Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act), 

provide for recreation and public safety, and meet 

other riparian functions and values. (See 

Appendix C for a graphical representation of a 

Riparian Corridor and an operational definition 

of a riparian area.) 

Riparian corridors occur along all defined 

perennial and intermittent stream channels that 

show signs of scour, and around natural ponds, 

lakeshores, wetlands, springs, and seeps. 

Portions of the corridor may extend into upland 

areas, especially within steep-sided stream valleys 

and headwater reaches. The riparian corridor 

management direction and these minimum 

distances (See Tables 3-9 and 3-10.) do not apply 

to constructed ponds, reservoirs, ditches, or 

terraces. For these areas, site-specific analysis 

will determine the appropriate protective 

measures. 

Streams are in dynamic equilibrium; that is, 

stream systems normally function within natural 

ranges of flow, sediment movement, temperature, 

3-39
and other variables. The geomorphic condition of 

some channels may reflect the process of longterm adjustment from historical watershed 

disturbances (e.g., past intensive farming 

practices within the piedmont). The combination 

of geomorphic and hydrologic processes creates 

a diverse physical environment, which, in turn, 

fosters biological diversity. The physical integrity 

of aquatic systems, stream banks and substrate, 

including shorelines and other components of 

habitat is intact and stable. 

The natural range of in-stream flows is 

maintained to support channel function, aquatic 

biota and wildlife habitat, floodplain function, 

and aesthetic values. 

Water quality remains within a range that 

ensures survival, growth, reproduction, and 

migration of aquatic and riparian-dependent 

species, and contributes to the biological, 

physical, and chemical integrity of aquatic 

ecosystems. Water quality meets or exceeds state 

and federal standards. Water quality (e.g., water 

temperatures, reducing sediment, dissolved 

oxygen, and pH) will be improved where 

necessary to benefit aquatic communities. 

The soils of riparian corridors have an organic 

layer (including litter, duff, and/or humus) of 

sufficient depth and composition to maintain the 

natural infiltration capacity, moisture regime, and 

productivity of the soil (recognizing that floods 

may periodically sweep some areas within the 

floodplain of soil and vegetation). Exposed 

mineral soil and soil compaction from human 

activity may be present but are dispersed and do 

not impair the productivity and fertility of the 

soil. Any human-caused disturbances or 

modifications that cause environmental 

degradation through concentrated runoff, soil 

erosion, or sediment transport to the channel or 

water body are promptly rehabilitated or 

mitigated to reduce or eliminate impacts.

 Floodplains properly function as detention/ 

retention storage areas for floodwaters, sources 

of organic matter to the water column, and 

habitat for aquatic and riparian-dependent 

species. Modification of the floodplain is 

infrequent but may be undertaken to protect 

human life and property or to meet other 

appropriate management goals (e.g., restoration). 

There may be evidence of some roads, trails, and 

recreational developments. Some wetland 

habitats may show signs of restoration.

 Silvicultural treatments including timber and 

vegetation removal may occur to restore and/or 

enhance riparian resources such as soil, water, 

wildlife and natural communities. Prescribed fire 

can be used within the corridor to create or 

maintain the composition and vitality of firedependent vegetative communities (e.g., 

canebrakes). Low intensity fire may occur when 

streams are used as natural firebreaks in 

association with landscape-level burning. 

Vegetative communities within the riparian 

corridor are diverse and productive, providing 

for a rich variety of organisms and habitat types. 

The vegetative community within the riparian 

corridor is predominantly forested; however, 

some natural non-forested habitats such as wet 

meadows, grasses or shrub dominated plant 

communities may occur. Many canebrake 

communities may be restored. Existing old fields 

and openings for wildlife may be present and 

maintained. Native species are preferred but noninvasive non-native species may be used when 

establishing food plants for wildlife. Some 

agricultural plantings of non-invasive non-natives 

may occur to augment stopover and wintering 

habitat for migratory species. 

The forest contains multiple canopy layers, 

which provide a variety of habitat niches, and 

thermal and protective cover for wildlife. Snags 

used by birds, bats, and small animals are 

abundant. Dying and down trees are common, 

often in natural patches. Suitable habitat is 

provided in riparian areas, and where applicable 

in the associated uplands, for riparian-dependent 

flora and fauna; including migratory species. 

High canopy species such as red-eyed vireo and 

yellow-throated warbler as well as species that 

use mid-story and well developed shrub layers in 

understory (thrushes, ovenbird, etc.) would also 

be expected in high densities. Species associated 

with habitat conditions found in riparian areas 

and wetland habitats, (i.e., Acadian flycatcher 

3-40 
(Epidonax viresens), parula (Parula Americana) 

Louisiana waterthrush (Seiurus motacilla), 

prothonotary warbler (Protonotaria chrea), 

wood duck (Aix sponsa), egrets and great blue 

heron (Aroea herodias) could potentially be 

found in high densities in localized areas. 

Trees within the corridors are managed to 

provide sufficient amounts and sizes of woody 

debris to maintain habitat complexity and 

diversity for aquatic and riparian-dependent 

species. Recruitment of woody debris typically 

occurs naturally; however, woody debris may be 

purposefully introduced to enhance aquatic and 

terrestrial habitat. Both in-stream and terrestrial 

woody debris are regarded as essential and 

generally left undisturbed. 

The biological integrity of aquatic 

communities is maintained, restored or enhanced. 

Aquatic species distributions are maintained or 

expanded into previously occupied habitat. The 

amount, distribution and characteristics of 

aquatic habitat for all life stages are present to 

maintain populations of indigenous and desired 

nonnative species. Habitat conditions contribute 

to the recovery of species under the Endangered 

Species Act. Species composition, distribution 

and relative abundance in managed habitats are 

comparable to that of natural habitats of the same 

region or reference stream. Streams and water 

bodies are periodically inventoried and monitored 

on a sample basis to characterize larger scale 

conditions or trends. Streams and water bodies 

are protected from adverse effects and managed 

to restore native species as appropriate. 

Management activities are allowed to restore, 

enhance, and manage aquatic communities of 

native and demand species. Management 

activities will be coordinated with the South 

Carolina Department of Natural Resources. 

Perennial and intermittent streams are 

managed in a manner that emphasizes and 

recruits large woody debris. The desired 

condition is approximately 200 pieces of large 

woody debris (LWD) per stream mile. 

The landscape character is naturally evolving 

or natural appearing, but occasional enclaves of a 

rural landscape character may occur with 

pastoral settings and recreational developments 

(such as a swim beach at a campground). 

However, due to the high value that these areas 

have for many uses, evidence of human activity 

(developed recreation areas, roads and trails, 

dams and reservoirs, and pastoral areas) may be 

present. 

The recreational opportunities are in roaded 

natural and rural settings. Both dispersed and 

developed recreational opportunities may be 

present within these corridors. Hiking, nature 

viewing, camping, canoeing, hunting, and fishing 

are activities available within the corridor. 

Visitors may encounter developed camping areas, 

boat launches, and fishing piers. Current 

recreation areas and facilities are maintained or 

upgraded to minimize impacts on stream banks, 

shorelines, and water quality. Environmental 

education and interpretation about the aquatic 

component and riparian corridor may be 

provided to increase awareness of the value of 

riparian dependent resources. 

Density of open roads and/or motorized trails 

may decrease over time as roads and/or trails that 

are unneeded or are causing undesirable resource 

impacts are closed. 

Determination of Riparian Corridors 

Due to their spatial extent, riparian corridors are 

not identified on the Forest Plan map of 

prescription allocations.

 Riparian corridor widths are designed to 

encompass the riparian area when defined on the 

basis of soils, vegetation and hydrology as 

described in Appendix C, and the ecological 

functions and values associated with the riparian 

area to include distinctive landscape features 

such as alluvial terraces, floodplains, bottomland 

hardwoods, and wetlands.

 For project planning and implementation, the 

following process will be used to determine the 

extent of site-specific riparian corridors: 

The widths in Tables 3-9 and3-10 shall be 

used to define the riparian corridor along 

streams, lakes and other water bodies if the 

corridor is not site-specifically determined as 

described below. 

3-41 
 If a site-specific field investigation determines 

the need to vary the widths in Table3-9 and 2 to 

better address desired riparian, aquatic or 

resource health conditions, that width shall 

become the project level riparian corridor. This 

corridor ensures that riparian values and 

functions are maintained. 

The slope-dependent riparian corridor widths 

are measured in on-the-ground surface feet 

perpendicular from the edge of the channel or 

bank (stream, water body, etc.) and extend out 

from each side of a stream.

 For ponds, lakes, sloughs, and wetlands 

(including seeps or springs associated with 

wetlands) the measurement would start at the 

ordinary high water mark and go around the 

perimeter. For braided streams, the outermost 

braid will be used as the water’s edge. 

Entrenched streams do not have banks along a 

floodplain and will typically be measured from 

the terrace along the bank. An interrupted stream 

(a watercourse that goes underground and then 

reappears) will be treated as if the stream were 

above ground. (An acceptable level of error for 

on-the-ground measurements of these widths is + 

10 percent.) The riparian corridor includes 

human-created reservoirs, wildlife ponds, 

wetlands, and waterholes connected to or 

associated with natural water features. In 

addition, those areas not associated with natural 

water features, but support riparian-associated 

flora or fauna, will have a riparian corridor 

designation. The riparian corridor management 

direction does not apply to constructed ponds 

developed for recreational uses; or to humanmade ditches, gullies, or other features that are 

maintained or in the process of restoration. For 

these areas, site-specific analysis will determine 

appropriate protective measures. 

Relationship with Ephemeral Streams 

Ephemeral streams do not have riparian areas, 

but are hydrologically connected to perennial and 

intermittent streams downstream. They flow only 

in direct response to precipitation, normally lack 

defined channels and are above the water table. 

Some ephemeral streams exhibit evidence of 

scouring from storm events.

 Standards for the Ephemeral Stream Zone are 

found in Chapter 2, Forest-wide Standards, of 

this Forest Plan. 

Objectives 

11-OBJ-1 Improve structural diversity and 

composition within the riparian corridor on 2,000 

acres on the piedmont as canebrake habitat 

restoration. 

11-OBJ-2 Restore and enhance stream habitat 

and aquatic communities in 50 miles of streams. 

This includes woody debris, stream bank 

stabilization, brook trout restoration, and in 

stream habitat improvement. 

Relationship with Other Management 

Prescriptions 

The riparian corridors overlap with other 

management prescription allocations. In order to 

establish precedence, the following rules apply. 

3⁄4 Where the riparian corridor management 

prescription area overlaps with lands that 

have been allocated to Management 

Prescriptions 1A/1B—Wilderness and 

Recommended Wilderness, 2A—Existing 

Wild/Scenic/Recreational Rivers, 4D and 

4F—Special Areas, and 9F—Rare 

Communities; then whichever 

management direction is the most 

restrictive will apply. 

3⁄4 For lands allocated to any of the other 

management prescriptions, where the 

riparian corridor overlaps with these 

allocations, the direction in the Riparian 

Corridor Management Prescription will 

take precedence. 

3-42
Standards 

11.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic classes 1 through 5. 

11.-2 The removal of large woody debris (pieces 

greater than 4 feet long and 4 inches in diameter 

on the small end) is allowed if it poses a risk to 

water quality, degrades habitat for ripariandependent species, for recreational access, or 

when it poses a threat to private property or 

National Forest infrastructures (i.e., culverts, 

bridges). The need for removal must be 

determined on a case-by-case basis. Except in 

unusual circumstances, woody debris embedded 

within the channel materials will not be removed. 

11.-3 Stocking of new nonnative species and 

stocking of previously unstocked areas is 

discouraged where it will adversely impact native 

aquatic species or communities. Before any 

stocking, coordinate with South Carolina 

Department of Natural Resources to ensure that 

populations and habitats of native species are 

maintained. 

11.-4 Existing wildlife openings are allowed 

within the riparian corridor. However, wildlife 

openings identified as causing environmental 

degradation through concentrated runoff, soil 

erosion, sediment transport to the channel or 

water body, loss of thermal shading, stream bank 

support and aquatic or riparian habitats will be 

mitigated or closed and restored. New wildlife 

openings within the riparian corridor are 

permitted where needed to provide habitat for 

migratory or riparian-dependent species. 

11.-5 New non-motorized trail construction is 

allowed to improve existing trail configuration 

and to improve access to specific locations along 

streams, lakes, and the riparian corridor. 

11.-6 New motorized trails are prohibited within 

the riparian corridor except at designated 

crossings or where the trail location requires 

some encroachment, for example, to 

accommodate steep terrain. 

11.-7 Motorized and non-motorized trail 

reconstruction and relocation within the riparian 

corridor are allowed to reduce impacts to 

riparian and aquatic resources. 

11.-8 New stream crossings will be evaluated and 

where necessary constructed so that they do not 

adversely impact the passage of aquatic 

organisms. Exceptions may be allowed to prevent 

the upstream migration of undesired species. 

11.-9 Alternative locations must be considered 

for all new facilities. Where none exist, potential 

impacts must be minimized or mitigated to 

moderate the severity of those impacts. 

11.-10 Camping trailers and vehicles are not 

allowed within 100 feet of perennial streams, 

lakes or other water bodies, except at designated 

areas. 

11.-11 Tethering or corralling of horses or other 

livestock is not allowed within 100 feet of 

stream courses or lakes. 

11.-12 New federal mineral leases will contain a 

no surface occupancy stipulation or controlledsurface-use stipulation for the riparian corridor. 

11.-13 Federal mineral material (36 CFR 228(c)) 

authorizations are only allowed to restore 

riparian areas and aquatic habitat, control erosion 

and sedimentation, and repair flood damage. 

11.-14 Gold panning and other related activities 

are only authorized where they do not adversely 

affect stream channel stability, substrate, aquatic 

species, or their habitats. 

11.-15 Commercial collection of botanical 

products will not be allowed in the riparian 

corridor if it would adversely affect the functions 

and values of the riparian area. 

3-43 
11.-16 Tree removals may only take place if 

needed to enhance the recovery of the health, 

diversity and/or complexity of vegetation, 

rehabilitate both natural and human-caused 

disturbances, provide habitat improvements for 

PETS or riparian-dependent species, suppress 

pest insect populations, reduce hazardous fuel 

buildup, provide for visitor safety, and for 

approved facility construction/renovation. 

11.-17 Permitted firewood cutting within the 

riparian corridor must take into consideration the 

large woody debris requirements. 

11.-18 Alternative measures for insect and 

disease control will be determined on the basis of 

risk to adjacent resources, long-term 

sustainability, and appropriate needs for the 

function and condition of the riparian area. 

11.-19 Except for wildfire or escaped prescribed 

fire, construction of firelines with heavy 

mechanized equipment (e.g., bulldozers) in 

wetlands or riparian corridors is prohibited. 

11.-20 Except for wildfire or escaped prescribed 

fire, hand lines will be used for fire line 

construction and water diversions will be used to 

deter sediments from streams. Fire lines are not 

constructed in stream channels, but streams may 

be used as firelines. 

11.-21 Where risks of resource damage are high, 

each road segment will be constructed and 

stabilized before starting another segment. Highrisk areas include landslide prone areas such as 

certain colluvial slopes, steep slopes and highly 

erosive soils. High-risk streams include streams 

containing sensitive aquatic species such as trout 

and mussels, or any threatened or endangered 

species, Wild and Scenic Rivers, Outstanding 

Resource Waters, those listed with sediment, 

turbidity or aquatic habitat problems on state 

303d or 305b water quality reports. 

11.-22 To minimize the length of streamside 

disturbance, ensure that approach sections are 

aligned with the stream channel at as near a right 

angle as possible. Locate riparian corridor 

crossings to minimize the amount of fill material 

needed and minimize channel impacts. 

11.-23 If culverts are removed, stream banks and 

channels must be restored to a natural size and 

shape. All disturbed soil must be removed from 

the active channel and floodplain, and stabilized. 

11.-24 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

12.A. Remote Backcountry

Recreation—Few Open Roads 

Andrew Pickens Ranger District, 4,929 acres 

(approximate) 

Emphasis: These lands are managed to provide 

users with a degree of solitude and a semiprimitive experience in large remote areas that 

still allow the use of limited public motorized 

access on existing, open motorized roads. Areas 

will be 2,500 acres or greater in size unless 

adjacent to a prescription that also provides a 

semi-primitive experience (1.A., 1.B., 4.A., 6.A., 

12.B., 12.C., etc.). 

Desired Condition: Provide users with solitude 

and a semi-primitive experience in large remote 

areas. These areas provide large tracts of 

backcountry recreational opportunities with a 

semi-primitive non-motorized emphasis that 

allows some existing vehicular access. Human 

activities may be evident in some places.Visitors 

occasionally see other people especially near the 

few open roads in these areas. A non-motorized 

trail system provides the predominant means of 

access. Closed roads are available for nonmotorized uses. Outdoor skills are important for 

visitors in the more remote portions of these 

areas. Hiking, horseback riding, mountain 

biking, backpacking, dispersed camping, hunting, 

and fishing are typical activities available in this 

area. 

3-44 
The landscape character appears natural with 

ecological processes, rather than management 

activities, being the primary forces shaping the 

landscape. Vegetative management activities, 

including prescribed fire, are for the purposes of 

threatened, endangered, sensitive and locally rare 

species habitat improvements; forest health 

considerations; to restore native vegetative 

communities; and to restore riparian ecosystems. 

Older forest communities predominate and 

increase over time

 Habitat conditions provided though this 

prescription are dominated by climax canopy 

development and decline. Wildlife that responds 

to large diameter standing snags and living den 

trees (raccoon, barred owl, great-crested 

flycatcher, chickadee, etc.) would be expected 

here in high densities if adequate food supplies 

were available. High canopy species such as redeyed vireo and species that use mid-story and 

well developed shrub layers in understory 

(thrushes, ovenbird, etc.) would also be expected 

in high densities. The limited supply of open 

shrubland habitats (openings, rights-of way, road 

corridors) would provide foraging habitat for 

some species (black and white warbler, towhee, 

cardinal, etc.) in portions of this prescription. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

prescription. 

Standards 

12.A.-1 The scenic integrity objective is high for 

inventoried scenic classes 1 through 5. 

12.A.-2 New road and motorized trail 

construction is prohibited, subject to valid 

existing rights or leases. 

12.A.-3 New federal mineral leases will contain a 

no surface occupancy stipulation or controlled 

surface use stipulation. 

12.A.-4 These lands are unsuitable for timber 

production. 

3-45 
4-1
Chapter 4 

Management Areas 

Management Areas are assigned on all acres of 

the Sumter. There are two types of management 

areas. One type will have unique management 

direction that is not covered in either forest-wide 

goals, objectives, standards, or management 

prescription desired conditions, objectives and 

standards. These management areas will be 

based on watersheds and are described below as 

Turkey Creek and Upper Stevens Creek 

Management Area and Chattooga River 

Management Area. 

The second type of management area contains 

no unique direction. The direction is already 

available in the Forest Plan. These management 

areas are presented here to provide a “sense of 

place” as well as to present additional 

information related to objectives and 

management prescription allocations.These 

management arears are defined on the remaining 

forest acres outside the Turkey Creek and Upper 

Stevens Creek Management Area and Chattooga 

River Management Area. They are described 

below as Blue Ridge Mountains and Foothills 

Management Area (Andrew Pickens District) 

and the Piedmont Management Area (Enoree and 

Long Cane Districts). 

Management Area 1—Turkey 

Creek and Upper Stevens Creek, 

Long Cane Ranger District 

Existing Conditions 

This 41,653-acre management area includes 

Turkey Creek and Upper Stevens Creek 

watershed areas above the confluence of Turkey 

and Stevens Creeks. This area contains 

approximately 238.4 miles of moderate to large 

perennial streams, all classified as freshwater by 

the state. Turkey and Upper Stevens Creek 

watersheds contain critical habitat for the 

federally-endangered Carolina Heelsplitter, 

(Lasmigona decorata). Occurring along with the 

Carolina heelsplitter is the brook floater 

(Alasmidonta varicosa), a sensitive species. 

According to several state and federal 

authorities, the Stevens Creek/Turkey Creek 

watershed is “...one of the most biologically 

diverse aquatic systems in all of South Carolina 

and appears to be the most biologically 

significant tributary of the entire Savannah River 

Basin in North Carolina, South Carolina, and 

Georgia.” (Alderman, 1998) The Nature 

Conservancy has identified Stevens Creek 

watershed as one of national significance for 

conservation of aquatic biodiversity (Master, et 

al, 1998). It ranks in the top 15 percent of the 

entire nation’s watersheds for its significance in 

biodiversity. 

The management area is underlain by several 

complex sequences of crystalline, mixed acid, 

micaceous rocks and Carolina slates. Soils 

surfaces are generally thin with sandy clay loam 

surfaces. Carolina slate surfaces consist of silt 

loams and subsurfaces consist of silty clay 

loams. Annual precipitation averages about 45 

inches of which 17 inches is water yield. 

Vegetation is primarily loblolly pine (Pinus 

taeda). Secondary vegetation includes red oak 

(Quercus falcata), white oak (Quercus alba), 

hickory (Carya spp.), sweetgum (Liquidambar 

styraciflua), yellow polar (Liriodendron 

tulipifera), water oak (Quercus nigra), willow 

oak (Quercus phellos), river birch (Betula nigra), 

sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), cottonwood 

(Populus deltoides), elm (Mlmus spp.), ash 

(Fraxinus sp.), and red maple (Acer rubrum). 

Some areas contain invasive non-native species 

such as kudzu (Pueraria lobata), privet 

(Ligustrum spp.), autumn olive (Elaeagnus 

4-2 
umbellate), and Chinese wisteria (Wisteria 

sinenis). 

Turkey Creek was evaluated by outside 

agencies and found to have elevated levels of 

suspended solids and turbidity resulting from 

agricultural activities, with fecal coliform, 

dissolved oxygen and phosphorus levels also 

problematic for some sections. Upper Stevens 

Creek is listed in the Nonpoint Source 

Management Program as needing water quality 

and macroinvertebrate community improvement, 

with Cuffytown and Hard Labor Creeks also 

mentioned for elevated turbidity and suspended 

solids. About 3 percent is urban land, 83 percent 

forested land, and 14 percent agricultural land. 

National Forest land comprises 15 percent of the 

Turkey Creek and 9 percent of Upper Stevens 

Creek watersheds.

 Municipal water uses in the vicinity include 

McCormick, SC, from Lake Thurmond and 

North Augusta, SC, and Edgefield County from 

the Savannah River. Due to the size of the 

Savannah River, the amount of private land 

involved and distance from both the Long Cane 

and Andrew Pickens Ranger Districts, forest 

management activities have little or no influence 

on these public water sources. 

A variety of wildlife species occur within the 

area including Bachman’s sparrow (Aimophila 

aestivalis), brown-headed nuthatch (Sitta 

pusilla), white tail deer (Odocoileus 

virginianus), quail (Colinus virginianus), 

Webster’s salamander (Plethodon websteri) and 

red fox (Vulpes fulva). A diversity of significant 

plant life occurs in this area: faded trillium 

(Trillium discolor), Oglethorpe oak (Quercus 

oglethorpensis), Shoal’s spider lily 

(Hymenocallis coronaria), and others. The fire 

maintained woodland/savanna habitat, known for 

its 300-year-old post oak trees located near Little 

Mountain Creek in the northern portion of this 

management area also is significant. 

This area also contains one of the original 

wild turkey releases and turkey management 

sites in the state of South Carolina. 

Desired Conditions 

Habitat for Carolina heelsplitter (Lasmigona 

decorata) is maintained or improved, and 

populations are increasing toward recovery. The 

movement of aquatic species is unhindered by 

migration barriers. Habitats for the diversity of 

freshwater mussels and other aquatic sensitive 

species are stable or increasing. The dominant 

land use is forestry. This low frequency use 

pattern is the best land cover to conserve most 

Atlantic slope freshwater mussels, reptiles, and 

amphibians. Mid- and late- successional forests 

dominate this management area; however, some 

scattered early successional habitat is evident. In 

the long-term, pines, oak, and hickory dominate 

most of the sites. 

There are a variety of high-quality well 

maintained developed and dispersed recreational 

opportunities including camping, shooting 

ranges, day hiking, mountain biking, canoeing 

and kayaking, fishing, hunting, dispersed 

camping and nature study. Visitors frequently 

see other people in parts of the management 

area. Outdoor skills are of moderate importance. 

The recreational opportunities are in roaded 

natural and rural settings.

 Old growth communities, especially mixed 

mesophytic forests, dry-mesic oak forests, and 

dry-mesic oak-pine and pine-oak forests, are 

found along the riparian corridors within this 

management area. Small or medium-sized 

patches of dry-xeric pine and oak old growth 

woodlands and savannas, and dry-mesic oak 

forests, are scattered throughout. In the shortterm, the results of loblolly pine removal may be 

observed as old growth communities more native 

to the area are restored. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

management area. 

Wooded riparian corridors are maintained to 

prevent stream isolation; to provide large woody 

debris, stream bank stability and morphology, 

allochthonous material, stable microclimate 

(including stream temperature); and to control 

sedimentation, erosion, and toxic material 

4-3 
---- -

movement. Mature hardwoods dominate the 

historic floodplain of the creeks within these 

riparian corridors in the long-term, and advanced 

oak and/or hickory regeneration occurs as 

seedlings or saplings in the pine understories. 

Some natural non-forested habitats such as wet 

meadows, grasses or shrub dominated plant 

communities may occur. V egetative communities 

within the riparian corridor are diverse and 

productive, providing a rich variety of or ganisms 

and habitat types.

 Due to the heavily mixed ownership pattern, 

addressing water quality and aquatic habitat 

concerns will require cooperating with private 

landowners and conservation agencies. 

The acres of management prescription 

allocations are displayed in T able 4-1. 

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ol f o nialpd , tpecxe sa a , t roser tsal 

eht rof oc lor tn . tsep fo 

No en w sdaor era b t l iu w niht i ht e

oces yradn oz en sa ni deni fed MA1­

1 tpecxe w ereh dedeen ot ssorc 

aer ts m .s

Comm laicre m gnini rep m st i oc iatn n

on ecafrus ycnapucco r o oc del lor tn

ecafrus esu pi ts oi talu .sn

No en w OHV s l iar t era ol la w de .

niht iW 05 teef set is fo k on wn t o

ppus t ro W s’retsbe alas ma , re dn

m niatnia onac yp oc rev dna org dnu

. ret t i l Low ser i f yt isnetni era ol la w de

w niht i eseht .saera 

No m dezi roto b stao r o t farc ra e

ol la w de on T yekru ro snevet S 

C .skeer 

No daor oc oi tcur tsn n s i ol la w i de n

eht T yekru / snevet S C keer B lacinato

A aer (4D). 

4-4 
Management Area 2—Chattooga 

River Management Area 2— 

Existing Conditions 

This 180,000-acre watershed includes the 

122,192-acre management area comprised of 

public lands in National Forest management 

located within the Blue Ridge Mountains and 

upper piedmont of Georgia, South Carolina, and 

North Carolina.The Chattahoochee-Oconee 

National Forests in Georgia, Nantahala National 

Forest in North Carolina and the Sumter 

National Forest in South Carolina share 

management of the watershed, with the Sumter 

National Forest in charge of administering the 

river uses associated with the Chattooga Wild 

and Scenic River Corridor. 

The dominant forest types in upland areas are 

Virginia and shortleaf pine (Pinus virginiana and 

P. echinata) and chestnut and scarlet oak 

(Quercus prinus and Q. coccinea) species, while 

eastern hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), yellow 

poplar (Liriodendron tulipfera) and white pine 

(P. strobus) often dominate moist areas as coves 

and streamsides with dense understories of 

rhododendron (Rhododendron sp.) and mountain 

laurel (Kalmia latifolia ) (Van Lear et al., 1995).

 Rainfall is well distributed throughout the 

year. The 50-year annual precipitation averages 

from 167 cm at the Long Creek, South Carolina, 

site in the lower portion of the watershed to 216 

cm at the Highlands, North Carolina, rain gauge 

near the headwaters (NOAA, 1999). About 1⁄2 of 

the rainfall is returned to streamflow as water 

yield. Elevation ranges from about 300 m to 

1,500 m. 

The primary rock types include graywacke, 

mica schist, amphibolite, aluminous schist, 

granite, mica gneiss, gneiss, and granite gneiss. 

The rock types are highly weathered, increasing 

their erodibility. The primary soil types are Evard 

and Brevard series with Toccoa soil series in the 

floodplains. Most of the perennial and 

intermittent streams are entrenched to 

moderately entrenched, with low to high width to 

depth ratios. 

A variety of wildlife can be found in the 

watershed including black bear (Ursus 

americanus), white tail deer (Odocoileus 

virginianus), red squirrel, black-throated green 

warbler, star-nosed mole, Eastern small-footed 

bat (Myotis leibii), and ruffed grouse (Bonasa 

umbellus). Fish species include rainbow, brown 

and brook trout, as well as a diverse cool water 

fish community, including darters, shiners, 

madtoms and chubs. The sensitive Oconee 

stream crayfish (Cambarus chaugaensis) and the 

sensitive brook floater (Alasmidonta varicosa) 

are present. 

Water quality is a special concern for 

suspended sediment and/or fecal coliform on 

some Chattooga River tributaries resulting in 

streams being water quality impaired or on the 

watch list. Impaired streams are because of 

excessive sedimentation, aquatic biological 

community or habitat impairment or poor 

biological community rating. Watch list streams 

show signs of impact and may need added 

protection from sedimentation and increased 

monitoring of point and non-point source 

pollutants. This management area includes the 

following impaired (I) and watch list (W) 

streams: sections of Stekoa Creek (I) including 

tributaries Scott Creek (I), Pool Creek (I), 

Chechero Creek (I), Saddle Gap Creek (I) and 

Cutting Bone Creek (W); Warwoman Creek (I) 

including Morsingills (I), Goldmine Creeks (I), 

Martin/Finney (W), and Tuckaluge (W); West 

Fork Chattooga River including tributaries Law 

Ground (I), Laurel (I), Clear (I), Reed Mill (I), 

and Big Creeks (W); and various tributaries of 

North Fork Chattooga River including Ammons 

Branch (I), Norton Mill (I), and Fowler Creeks 

(I), Scottsman Branch (W), East Fork Chattooga 

River (W), Ridley Creek (W), Hedden Creek 

(W) and King Creek (W) and middle to lower

Chattooga River tributaries including Whetstone 

Creek (I); Adline Creek (I), Fall Creek (I), Pole 

Creek (I), Licklog Creek (I), Reedy Creek (I), 

Buckeye Branch (W), Long Creek (I), and Camp 

Creek (W). Fecal coliform levels within Stekoa 

4-5 
Creek often exceed swimming standards by 

several orders of magnitude during storm events 

and remain an intermittent problem even during 

non-storm periods. Many of the tributary areas 

have temporary elevation of fecal coliforms 

during storm events, but typically these levels 

decline to safe levels during non-storm periods. 

The states and EPA are currently working on 

Best Management Practices (BMP) to help 

reduce impacts. The Chattooga River Ecosystem 

Demonstration Project (1993-1995) and the 

Chattooga River Large Scale Watershed Project 

increased the information known about the 

watershed and help to focus resources toward 

improving conditions.

 Congress designated 57 miles of the 

Chattooga River corridor as a component of the 

National Wild and Scenic River System on May 

10, 1974. The headwaters of the river begin in 

North Carolina and continue downriver along the 

South Carolina and Georgia border. The river 

corridor and its immediate surroundings offer 

many recreational uses including boating, 

fishing, swimming, floating, hiking, horseback 

riding, and sightseeing in remote and 

occasionally in roaded settings. The river 

provides premier trout fishing opportunities for 

anglers across the Southeast. Recreational 

boating (including kayaking, canoeing, and 

rafting) has been a very popular use of the river 

and includes both guided and self-guided users. 

Water quality declines on some sections, 

especially below the confluence with Stekoa 

Creek or in relation to storm events in other ar 

Desired Conditions 

There are no longer any water quality impaired 

or watch list streams. Water quality concerns 

have diminished and excessive sediments, fecal 

coliform concentrations, and/or impacts to 

aquatic habitats have been removed. 

Proactive measures are taken to help evaluate 

and prioritize pollutant sources and work with 

communities, agencies, neighbors, industry, 

developers, farmers, ranchers, and foresters on 

water quality issues within the watershed. 

Currently the means is through the efforts of 

various groups concerned about the Chattooga 

River water quality, state water and 

environmental agencies, EPA, Forest Service 

Large Scale Chattooga Watershed Project and 

NRCS personnel and programs. Efforts to 

develop partnerships and seek internal and 

external sources of funding to improve water 

quality will be undertaken. 

Fecal coliform levels do not exceed water 

quality standards, even during storm events. 

Until standards can be met, official notice to 

river companies and private boaters will be 

made that health concerns during river uses and 

water contact sports are much higher than 

normal below Stekoa Creek and for most areas 

during heavy storm events. See Appendix E for 

water quality monitoring. 

Outstandingly remarkable values and freeflowing conditions are not impaired by forest 

management actions.See Appendix E for 

monitoring of these values and conditions. 

There are a variety of high-quality well 

maintained developed and dispersed recreational 

opportunities including camping, backpacking, 

day hiking, horseback riding, fishing (warm, 

cool and cold waters), hunting, dispersed 

camping, photography and nature study. Visitors 

frequently see other people in some parts of the 

management area in other parts the area people 

are rarely seen. The recreational opportunities 

include the full range from the most primitive in 

Ellicott Rock Wilderness to more developed in 

roaded natural and rural settings and therefore 

outdoor skills are of moderate importance in 

some parts and very important in others. The 

Chattooga River is a popular place for 

recreational activities that center around the 

Chattooga River including whitewater boating 

for both guided and self-guided boaters, 

swimming, tubing, fishing, hiking and 

sightseeing. 

The loblolly pine is reduced to a minor 

component within this area. Early successional 

native forest and openings are present where 

loblolly pine forest previously stood. Some of 

4-6 
------

these stands and openings are larger than 80 

acres.

 Medium to large patches of old growth, 

especially mixed mesophytic forests, dry-mesic 

oak forests, and dry-mesic oak-pine and pine-oak 

forests occur along the Chattooga river, and at 

higher elevations in the Ellicott Wilderness and 

associated Extension area. Small or mediumsized patches of old growth are scattered 

throughout the uplands, and along riparian 

corridors. 

Habitat for sensitive species such a brook 

floater (Alasmidonta varicosa), a freshwater 

mussel and Oconee stream crayfish (Cambarus 

chaugaensis), is protected, maintained, and 

monitored to help prevent listing. Brook trout are 

restored to suitable streams within their range. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

management area.

 Management prescription allocations for the 

Sumter National Forest are shown in Table 4-2. 

Table 4-3 shows the management prescription 

allocations for the Chattahoochee-Oconee 

National Forests in Georgia. Table 4-3 is 

provided for information only. For information 

about management preciptions on the Nantahala 

National Forest in North Carolina, please refer to 

the Land and Resource Management Plan for the 

Nantahala National Forest. 

no i tp i rc s e rP t n em egan a M. 2 -4 e l baT 

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l ano i t a Nr e tmu S , t c i r t s i D r egna Rsn e kc iP 

t s e roF 

t n em egana M 

sno i t p i rc s e rP D no i t p i rc s e e rcA s 

A1 detangiseD 

ssenredliW 5 58,2 

B1 dednemmoceR 

ssenredliW 0 79,1 

1A2 dliW detangiseD 

reviR 0 92,3 

2A 2 cinecS detangiseD 

reviR 4 22 

3A 2 detangiseD 

reviR lanoitaerceR 6 20,1 

D4 cinatoB lacigol ooZ/la

saerA 8 7 

4 F S aerA cinec s 1 5

7 A S awyB cinec y 1 7 9

D7 detartnecno C 

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2E7 desrepsiD 

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1A8 lanoisseccu S fo xiM 

statibaH tsero F 4 82 

2B8 -alssarG/sdnaldooW 

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9 F R seitinummo C era * 0 

11 nairapiR 

**srodirro C 

A 21 

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123,1 

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deddebme era serca 243, 3 yletamixorppA ** 

.snoitpircserp gniniojda ni 

4-7 
----- -

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,2 a erA tn em egana M , snoitacollA 

st s eroF lanoita N e enocO dna e ehcoohattahC 

*.)aigro eG( 

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0 lai dotsu C 

tnemeganaM 9 54 

1 A D senredliW detangise s 20,2 3 

B1 dednemmoceR 

ssenredliW 2 65 

2 1A D eviR dliW detangise r 99,5 8 

2A2 cinec S detangiseD 

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reviR lan oitaerceR 5,1 15

2 1B E eviR dliW elbigil r 31 7 

2 2B E eviR cinec S elbigil r 81 0 

4 I N erA laruta a 82,6 0 

4 I N erA laruta a 91,6 3 

5 A A eti S evitartsinimd s 3 

6 B O tworG dl h 1 0

8 1A anoisseccu S f o xiM l

statibaH tsero F 

116,31 

8 3E lraE noitavelE hgiH y

tatibaH lanoisseccu S 

6 

9 3A W oitarotseR dehsreta n 92,61 9 

H9 tnal P fo noitarotseR 

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8 87,1 

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nal P tne megan aM ecruoseR dna eht rof 

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snoitpircserp gniniojda ni ded debmE ** 

Management Area 3—Blue Ridge 

Mountains and Foothills, Andrew 

Pickens District—outside the 

Chattooga Watershed 

Existing Conditions 

The 59,975-acre management area is located in 

the mountains and upper piedmont of South 

Carolina within Oconee County. 

The dominant forest types in upland areas are 

Virginia and shortleaf pine (Pinus virginiana and 

P. echinata) and chestnut and scarlet oak species, 

(Quercus prinus and Q. coccinea) while eastern 

hemlock (Tsuga canadensis), yellow poplar 

(Liriodendron tulipfera) and white pine (P. 

strobus) often dominate moist areas as coves and 

streamsides with dense understories of 

rhododendron (Rhododendron sp.) and mountain 

laurel (Kalmia latifolia) (Van Lear et al., 1995).

 Rainfall is well distributed throughout the 

year averaging somewhat less than found within 

the Chattooga Watershed. About 1⁄2 of the 

rainfall is returned to streamflow as water yield. 

The primary rock types include graywacke, 

mica schist, amphibolite, aluminous schist, 

granite, mica gneiss, gneiss, and granite gneiss. 

The rocks are highly weathered. The primary 

soil types are Evard and Brevard Series with 

Toccoa Series in the floodplains. Most of the 

perennial and intermittent streams are 

entrenched to moderately entrenched, with low 

to high width to depth ratios. 

A variety of wildlife can be found in the 

watershed including black bear (Ursus 

americanus), white tail deer (Odocoileus 

virginianus), red squirrel, black-throated green 

warbler, star-nosed mole, Eastern small-footed 

bat (Myotis leibii), and ruffed grouse (Bonasa 

umbellus). Fish species include rainbow, brown 

and brook trout, as well as a diverse cool water 

community, which includes dartes, shiners, 

madtoms and chubs. 

4-8 
------ -

Watersheds 

This management area includes portions of six 

watersheds including Chauga River, Coneross 

Creek, Upper Lake Keowee Composite, Little 

River Composite, Tugaloo River Composite, and 

the Whitewater River Composite. The Chauga 

River has about 50 percent of its land base in 

National Forest System land with each of the 

other watersheds composed of 14 percent or less. 

The Chauga is the most noted of the 

watersheds within this management area. Just 

below the forest boundary, the community of 

Westminster, SC, uses the river as its municipal 

water supply, with the Ramsey Creek tributary as 

its backup water source. Most of the watershed is 

presently in good condition and many of the 

streams listed as Outstanding Resource Waters 

by South Carolina. There are some concerns 

about the existing and potential impacts to 

aquatic life from nonpoint pollutant sources such 

as roads, timber harvest, rural development, 

poultry producers and agriculture uses including 

pastureland. A rare crayfish, Cambarus 

chaugaensis, is found within the Chauga 

watershed. A variety of rare plants are found, 

especially within the calcareous soil area 

associated with the Brevard fault zone.

 In the sediment analysis conducted, Coneross 

Creek was identified as having below average 

conditions. The state has listed Coneross as 

impaired for elevated fecal coliform, which can 

impact recreational uses, and increasing nitrogen 

and declining dissolved oxygen are added trends. 

Other streams mentioned by the state include 

Battle and Brasstown Creeks that have 

suspended solids and sediment concerns.

 Some of the watersheds north of Coneross 

Creek contribute to Lake Keowee, which is the 

municipal water source for Greenville and 

Seneca, SC and the Oconee Nuclear station. Due 

to the distance from the forest, amount of private 

lands involved and size of Lake Keowee, there 

are few concerns relative to National Forest 

management for these public sources of water. 

Table 4-4 shows the management prescription 

allocations. 

no i tpi rc s erP tn emegana M. 4-4 e lbaT 

3a erA tn emegana M, sno i tac o l lA 

tn emegana M 

sno i tpi rc s erP sno i tpi rc s e D s ercA 

B1 dednemmoceR 

ssenredliW 21 

3A2 detangiseD 

reviR lanoitaerceR 

4 

D4 lacigolooZ/lacinatoB 

saerA 797,1 

4 F S aerA cinec s 27,8 0

C5 ytilitU detangiseD 

sr odirro C 441 

6 C O tworG dl h 20,1 3

7 A S awyB cinec y 23,2 5

D7 detartnecno C 

senoZ noitaerceR 96 

2E7 noitaerceR desrepsiD 

saerA 143 

1A 8 lan oisseccu S fo xiM 

statibaH tsero F 162,14 

2B8 dnalssarG/sdnaldooW 

statibaH annava S 4 

9 F R seitinummo C era * 45 5

1 1 R *srodirro C nairapi *

A 21 yrtnuockcaB etomeR 

noitaerceR 806,3 

T lato 58,95 4

i seitinummoc erar ni esaercni nA* a sa detciderp s

.seirotnevni cificeps -etis erom fo tluser 

ni deddebme era serca 0 36,9 yletamixorppA ** 

.snoitpircserp gnini ojda 

Desired Conditions 

Elevated levels of suspended sediment, fecal 

coliform and other water quality factors beyond 

existing water quality standards are infrequent. 

No streams are listed as being water quality 

impaired or on the watch list due to excessive 

pollutants, decline in aquatic biological 

community or habitat impairment. Biological 

community ratings are excellent to good, with 

4-9 
strong viable populations of native aquatic 

species. Instream flow needs are met to maintain 

aquatic species, channel conditions, 

administrative needs, recreation, scenic, research 

and other needs on the forest. Sand and smaller 

particles seldom dominate channel substrates, 

and ample amount of large woody debris is 

within streams and being retained for future 

stream and habitat needs. Waters within the 

forest boundaries are of suitable quality and 

quantity to meet beneficial water uses including 

municipal, indigenous aquatic habitat, channel, 

recreational, administrative, research, fire, 

scenic, wildlife and other resource needs. 

There are a variety of high-quality well 

maintained developed and dispersed recreation 

opportunities including camping, backpacking, 

day hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, 

shooting ranges, fishing (warm, cool and cold 

waters), hunting, dispersed camping, 

photography and nature study. Visitors frequently 

see other people in some parts of the 

management area in other parts the area people 

are rarely seen. The recreational opportunities 

range from the more remote in Bee Cove 

Roadless Area to more developed in roaded 

natural and rural settings and therefore outdoor 

skills are of moderate importance in some parts 

and very important in others. 

The loblolly pine is reduced to a minor 

component within this area. Early successional 

native forest and openings are present where 

loblolly pine forest previously stood. Some of 

these stands and openings are larger than 80 

acres. 

Medium to large patches of old growth, 

especially mixed mesophytic forests, dry-mesic 

oak forests, and dry-mesic oak-pine and pine-oak 

forests occur throughout the management area, 

especially along the Chauga River, the White 

Rock Scenic Area, various botanical/zoological 

areas, and along riparian corridors. Small or 

medium-sized patches of old growth are 

scattered throughout the uplands.

 Habitat for sensitive species such as Oconee 

stream crayfish (Cambarus chaugaensis), is 

protected, maintained, and monitored. Historic 

native trout are maintained and/or restored 

where suitable. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

management area. 

Management Area 4—Piedmont, 

Enoree and Long Cane Districts, 

outside of the Turkey Creek and 

Upper Stevens Creek Watersheds 

Existing Conditions 

The 236,113-acre management area is located in 

the piedmont of South Carolina within 

Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, McCormick 

and Saluda counties for the Long Cane Ranger 

District and within Chester, Fairfield, Laurens, 

Newberry, and Union counties for the Enoree 

Ranger District. 

The piedmont is underlain by several 

complex sequences of crystalline, mixed acid, 

micaceous rocks and Carolina slates. Soils 

surfaces are generally thin with sandy clay loam 

surfaces. Carolina slate surfaces consist of silt 

loams and subsurfaces consist of silty clay 

loams. Annual precipitation averages about 45 

inches of which 17 inches are water yield. Past 

agricultural uses have left portions of the area 

with little or no topsoil and active and inactive 

gullies. 

Vegetation is primarily loblolly pine with 

some shortleaf and Virginia pine. Secondary 

vegetation includes red oak, white oak, hickory, 

sweetgum, yellow polar, water oak, willow oak, 

river birch, sycamore, cottonwood, elm, ash, and 

red maple. Some areas contain invasive nonnative species such as kudzu, privet, autumn 

olive, mimosa, sericea lespedeza, and tree of 

heaven that may be addressed for containment or 

eradication activities. 

4-10 
Watersheds 

Watersheds on the Long Cane Ranger District 

with substantial portions of national forest 

include Little River, Long Cane Creek and 

Lower Savannah River composite areas. Some 

streams segments are listed as impaired from 

excessive levels of fecal coliform, turbidity or 

suspended solids. Abnormal levels or declining 

conditions for nutrients and ammonium toxicity 

are local problems. Most of the problems are 

associated with non-forest land uses. Small 

portions of the Long Cane district have been 

severely eroded and lost over a foot of topsoil 

from past agricultural activities. Many other 

areas of past agricultural uses were only 

moderately eroded due to more gentle slopes. 

Therefore, most of these areas still contain a thin 

soil A horizon with well developed B horizon 

that is somewhat resistant to erosion. Extensive 

efforts to recover soil and water conditions on 

severely eroded or barren lands have been 

ongoing since the lands were acquired.

 Municipal water uses in the vicinity include 

McCormick, SC from Lake Thurmond and North 

Augusta, SC and Edgefield County from the 

Savannah River. Due to the size of the Savannah 

River, the amount of private land involved and 

distance from both the Long Cane and Andrew 

Pickens Ranger Districts, forest management 

activities have little or no influence on these 

public water sources. 

Watersheds on the Enoree Ranger District 

with substantial portions of national forest 

include Duncan Creek, Indian Creek, Lower 

Enoree River Composite, and the Upper Broad 

River Composite. Duncan Creek is a backup 

water source for the community of Whitmire, 

South Carolina. Most of the watersheds within 

this area contain streams which are listed as 

impaired from excessive levels of fecal coliform, 

high turbidity and/or suspended solids. Specific 

river or stream segments have abnormal levels or 

declining conditions for zinc, pesticides, pH, 

dissolved oxygen and/or phosphorus. In some 

instances, mercury accumulation in certain fish 

species is also a concern. The water quality 

problems are primarily linked to past and present 

activities outside of National Forest control and 

residual air pollutants.

 Much of the Enoree district has been severely 

eroded and lost more than a foot of topsoil from 

past agricultural activities. Many areas have 

eroded into the B horizon, which has higher clay 

content and somewhat restricts erosion. The 

most severe erosion occur as gullies, where the 

B horizon has been breached and the extremely 

erosive C horizon is exposed, causing rapid 

gully development and expansion. This area is 

generally more eroded from past activities than 

the Long Cane Ranger District. Extensive 

efforts to recover soil and water conditions have 

been ongoing since the lands were acquired. 

Table 4-5 shows the management prescription 

allocations for this management area.

 Municipal uses of water associated with the 

streams within or adjacent to the Enoree Ranger 

District include the Enoree River with Duncan 

Creek as a backup source of water for Whitmire, 

SC; and the Broad River supplies municipal 

needs for Union, SC, Lockhart Mills and 

Carlisle Cone Mills, with the source for 

Columbia, SC a substantial distance 

downstream. Due to the size of the Broad River 

sub-basin and flow, forest management activities 

have little or no influence on these public water 

sources. 

Desired Conditions 

Elevated levels of suspended sediment, fecal 

coliform and other water quality factors beyond 

existing water quality standards are infrequent. 

No streams are listed as being water quality 

impaired or on the watch list due to excessive 

pollutants, decline in aquatic biological 

community or habitat impairment. Biological 

community ratings are excellent to good, with 

strong viable populations of native aquatic 

species. In-stream flow needs are met to 

maintain aquatic species, channel conditions, 

administrative needs, recreation, scenic, research 

and other needs on the forest. Sand and smaller 

particles seldom dominate channel substrates, 

4-11 
------ -

and ample amount of large woody debris is 

within streams and being retained for future 

stream and habitat needs. Waters within the 

forest boundaries are of suitable quality and 

quantity to meet beneficial water uses including 

municipal, indigenous aquatic habitat, channel, 

recreational, administrative, research, fire, 

scenic, wildlife and other resource needs. 

There are a variety of high-quality well 

maintained developed and dispersed recreation 

opportunities including camping, shooting 

ranges, day hiking, OHV riding, mountain 

biking, canoeing and kayaking, fishing, hunting, 

dispersed camping and nature study. Visitors 

frequently see other people in parts of the 

management area. Outdoor skills are of 

moderate importance. The recreational 

opportunities are in roaded natural and rural 

settings. 

Old growth communities, especially mixed 

mesophytic forests, dry-mesic oak forests, and 

dry-mesic oak-pine and pine-oak forests, 

dominate the riparian corridors within this 

management area, and occur more extensively 

along the Broad, Tyger, and Enoree Rivers. 

Small to medium-sized patches of dry-xeric pine 

and oak old growth woodlands and savannas, 

and dry-mesic oak old growth forests, are 

scattered throughout the uplands. In the shortterm, the results of loblolly pine removal may be 

observed as old growth communities more native 

to the area are restored. 

Aquatic and riparian protection measures 

found in Riparian Prescription 11 apply to this 

management area. 

no i tpi rc s erP tn emegana M. 5-4 e l baT 

4a erA tn emegan a M, sno i taco l lA 

tn emegana M 

sno i tpi rc s erP D sno i tpi rc s e ercA s 

D4 lacigolooZ/lacinatoB 

saerA 9 01 ,1 

4 F S aerA cinec s 82,1 6 

1G4 latnemirepxE nuohla C 

tseroF 2 68,4 

C5 ytilitU detangiseD 

srodirro C 2 93,2 

6 C O tworG dl h 1 6 7

D7 detartnecno C 

enoZ noitaerceR 8 64 

1E7 noitaerceR desrepsiD 

aerA 5 75,21 

2E7 noitaerceR desrepsiD 

aerA 8 24,94 

2B8 -nalssarG/sdnaldo oW 

sannava S /sd 8 59,7 

3A9 dehsretaW 

noitarotseR 0 63,11 

9 F R seitinummo C era * 63 4 

2G9 

dnal pU fo noitarotseR 

dna yr okciH -ka O 

-ka O -eniP dexiM 

stsero F yrokciH 

3 45,92 

B01 tseroF ytilau Q hgiH 

stcudorP 9 05,29 

1 1 R *srodirro C nairapi *

T lato 21 ,311 5 

sa detciderp si seitinummoc erar ni esaercni nA* 

.seirotnevni cificeps -etis erom fo tluser a 

ni de d de bme era serca 4 69,44 yletamixorppA ** 

.snoitpircserp gniniojda 

4-12
Interpretation of Desired 

Condition Percentages of 

Successional Habitat 

The desired conditions by management 

prescription are described in part, in terms of the 

percentage of forested land desired in early and 

late-successional forest. To be meaningful, 

percentage recommendations must also come 

with a geographic scale at which the percentage 

should be calculated. Some previous discussion 

has focused on setting successional stage 

objectives at the forest-level. In South Carolina, 

this scale is not particularly meaningful from a 

wildlife perspective, because most species will 

select habitat at a smaller scale—that of the 

immediate stand and/or the surrounding 

landscape. The scale of the relevant surrounding 

landscape will vary with species, but will rarely 

if ever reach the scale of the entire Sumter 

National Forest, particularly because of the 

geographically separated units of the Sumter.

 Given the incomplete ownership patterns 

within each ranger district on the Sumter, the 

appropriate scale for successional stage 

objectives is landscape-level blocks of the same 

prescription in relative proximity to each other. 

Prescription allocations are the management unit 

closest to this scale. Forest Plan compliance 

during project planning should be done on the 

basis of geographically contiguous prescription 

allocation blocks. Relatively small prescription 

allocation blocks may be lumped with nearby 

prescriptions having the same successional stage 

objectives. Grouping of blocks for analysis 

purposes should be responsive to project level 

issues and at an appropriate scale for project 

level analysis. 

Chapter 5 

Implementation 

With this process, forest-wide or management 

area objectives for each successional stage can 

be determined by summing allocations of 

prescriptions. Judgments can be made as to 

whether allocations adequately provide amounts 

and distributions of these habitats across the 

forest. Related discussions will be productive, 

because they can be made within the context of 

Interdisciplinary Team decisions specific to 

conditions and considerations of particular 

pieces of the landscape.

 Percentages of various forest successional 

stages shown in the desired conditions of each 

management prescription include intermingled 

riparian areas. Acres of non-forest, such as 

roads, water, and permanent openings, acres to 

be maintained or restored to woodlands, 

savannas, and grasslands, which will be 

managed for an open condition permanently, 

should be deducted before performing 

calculations. Patches smaller than 2 acres of 

either type would not be counted, but would be 

included with the surrounding type. Conditions 

of surrounding private lands would not be 

included in calculations, but should be 

considered when developing alternatives during 

project-level planning. For example, high 

amounts of quality early-successional forest on 

surrounding private land might result in 

decisions to provide such habitats on national 

forest land at the low end of the objective range.

 Early successional forest for all forest types 

is defined as regenerating forest predominantly 

0-10 years old. Early-successional forest patches 

created by natural disturbances would be 

included in calculations, but we would not 

attempt to predict amounts of early-successional 

forest likely to be created by natural events in 

the future. Even-aged and two-aged regeneration 

cutting, prescribed burning, or other types of 

vegetation management treatments, may create 

5-1 
early-successional forest. The desired habitat 

result we want to achieve is relatively dense 

regeneration of woody species across patches 

larger than 2 acres, and the larger the patch the 

better for many dependent species.

 For a complete discussion of the ages within 

early, mid- and late-successional forests by forest 

community, refer to the process record entitled 

“Forest Community Types and Forest 

Successional Classes for National Forests in the 

Southern Appalachian Plan Revisions.” 

Ages of mid- and late-successional forests are 

defined in the Glossary, Appendix B. To meet 

objectives for mid- and late-successional forest 

habitats, managers would ensure that planned 

forest regeneration would not result in 

percentages falling below objectives. 

Management treatments to thin or create small 

canopy gaps are compatible with maintaining 

mid- and late-successional forest conditions. 

Areas managed under uneven-aged 

regeneration methods would not be counted as 

either early- or late-successional, but as a 

separate successional stage category. Acreage of 

these areas would be included as part of the 

forested acreage base for the purpose of 

successional stage calculations. Based on 

discussions with forest interdisciplinary teams, 

we do not expect this acreage to be extensive 

enough to conflict with meeting successional 

stage objectives. 

Monitoring and Evaluation 

Monitoring and evaluation provide information 

to determine if programs and projects are 

meeting Forest Plan direction, and if the cost 

anticipated to implement the Forest Plan 

coincides with actual costs. Monitoring and 

evaluation is required by NFMA implementing 

regulations (36 CFR 219.12(k)) to determine if 

requirements of the regulations and Forest Plan 

are being met. 

This chapter establishes monitoring questions 

that are to be answered over the course of Forest 

Plan implementation. Monitoring questions 

address if the desired conditions, goals and 

objectives of the Forest Plan are being met and if 

Forest Plan standards are effective. Monitoring 

questions are part of the Forest Plan and are 

stated in terms that will direct what will be 

monitored, but are not so specific as to address 

how monitoring will be accomplished.

 Monitoring questions will be further refined 

during Forest Plan implementation into 

monitoring elements and task sheets, which are 

detailed, specific and measurable. Monitoring 

elements and task sheets may be modified and 

prioritized to guide monitoring activities over 

the course of Forest Plan implementation. The 

monitoring summary table and sample task sheet 

(Appendix E) demonstrate the relationships 

between Forest Plan goals, objectives, standards 

and monitoring questions, and indicate the 

nature of monitoring elements and monitoring 

details that are to be further developed during 

Forest Plan implementation. The monitoring 

summary table and sample task sheet are 

presented here only for information and may be 

modified as needed to address changes in needs, 

priorities, availability of personnel, and funding. 

The concept of adaptive management is 

foundational for planning and Forest Plan 

implementation in a dynamic environment. 

Regulations require that Forest Plans be revised 

periodically (36 CFR 219.10(g)). However, 

forest plans may need to be more dynamic to 

account for changed resource conditions (such as 

large storms or insect outbreaks), new 

information or findings of science, or new 

regulations or policies. An effective monitoring 

and evaluation program is essential for 

determining when these needs may exist and 

leading to quick resolution of a need for change. 

The monitoring questions were developed to 

address three types of monitoring: 

3⁄4 Implementation monitoring–Is the Forest 

Plan being carried out? 

3⁄4 Effectiveness monitoring–Are desired 

conditions resulting? 

5-2 
3⁄4 Validation monitoring–Has the 

information used in developing the 

Forest Plan changed?

 Monitoring and evaluation provide 

information that can be used to keep Forest 

Plans current. Key results and findings will be 

used to determine if changes are needed in goals, 

objectives, standards, monitoring questions, or 

research needs.

 Monitoring and evaluation are distinct 

activities. The monitoring phase usually includes 

collecting data and information, either by 

observation, direct measurement, or compiling 

data from appropriate sources. Evaluation is the 

analysis of this data and information, and is used 

to assess if the Forest Plan is being implemented 

correctly and if it needs to be changed. Forest 

Plan monitoring and evaluations will be reported 

annually in the “Sumter National Forest 

Monitoring and Evaluation Report.” 

Monitoring and evaluation may lead to 

adjustments of programs, projects or activities, 

changes or amendment to the Forest Plan, or to 

recommend changes in laws, regulations, and 

policies that affect both the Forest Plan and 

project implementation (FSM 1922.7).

 Forest Plan amendments and revisions should 

be responsive to changes that affect the Forest 

Plan, and may be needed at any time if a Forest 

Plan becomes outdated in some way. Within an 

adaptive management framework, the need to 

amend or revise the Forest Plan may result from: 

3⁄4 Recommendations of an interdisciplinary 

team, based on evaluation and 

monitoring results 

3⁄4 Changes in agency policy and regulations 

3⁄4 Planning errors found during Forest Plan 

implementation 

3⁄4 Changes in physical, biological, social, 

or economic conditions 

The evaluation of findings under the 

following monitoring questions will lead forest 

managers to these determinations. 

Monitoring Questions

1. Are rare ecological communities being 

protected, maintained, and restored? 

A Forest Plan goal, related objectives and 

standards are designed to maintain and restore 

rare communities. To monitor accomplishment 

of these provisions and the effects that overall 

Forest Plan implementation will have on rare 

communities, trends in number of occurrences, 

locations, and conditions, and effects of 

maintenance and restoration activities will be 

tracked. 

5-3 
2. Are landscape and stand-level composition, 

structure, and function of major forest 

communities within desirable ranges of 

variability? 

Success in maintaining and restoring 

composition, structure, and function of forest 

ecosystems within desired ranges of variability is 

reflected by both changes in forest condition and 

by levels of management and other ef fects that 

are shaping these communities. Monitoring will 

include tracking the abundance of major forest 

cover/community types and levels of 

management activities conducted to maintain 

and restore desired conditions. T rends in 

population indices or surveys, and trends in 

abundance of habitat for species selected as 

Management Indicator Species will be 

monitored to help indicate ef fects of national 

forest management within selected communities. 

In addition, presence or absence of a 

combination of representative species of fire 

associated plant communities will be used to 

evaluate ef fectiveness of management in 

maintaining desired conditions in woodland/ 

grassland/savanna habitats. 

tn em egana M 

s eic ep S rotacidnI 

t s eroF d etaico s sA /noitc el e S rof sno sa e R 

ytinummoC 

d etal e R 

s evitc ejbO 

W relbradedooH 

)anir tic ainosliW( 

fo ecnerruccofo ycneuerf qni sdnert dna,ecneser P 

eb l l iwstserof suoudicedcisem ni srelbrawdedooh 

fo sseneeffe vitceht etani cidh pleot desu 

dnad yrotsrenuesnedorp nidiv grof tnemeganam 

.seit inummoctserof eseht niht iwurts erutcdim yrots

3 0.8 

5 0.8 

reganaT telracS fo ecnerruccofo ycneuerf qni sdnert dna,ecneser P 3 0.8 

agnari P( eht etani cidh pleot desu eb l l iwseicepssiht 4 0.8 

)aeca vilo kaoniniatnia gmrof tnemeganam fo sseneeffe vitc

).7 noitseuQnirot in goMosla eeS(stser of 

W relbraeni P 

( )suni p aci ordneD 

fo ecnerruccofo ycneuerf qni sdnert dna,ecneser P 

desu eb l l iwstserof kao-enip/enip ni seicepseseht 

ni tnemeganam fo sseneeffe vitcetani cidh pleot 

.sepyt dnim etaodenip niniatniam gdnanirotser g

4 0.8 

10.71 

rehctacyl F naidacA ,ecneser P fo ecnerruccofo ycneuerf qni sdnert dna 10.4 

xanodip E( h pleot desu eb l l iwstser of npir airani seicepseseht 

)snecseri v niniatniam gni tnemeganam fo sseneeffe vitcetani cid

.snoit idnoceseht 

dedaeh-nworB 

hhtu ctan 

( )allis up a t tiS 

fo ecnerruccofo ycneuerf qni sdnert dna,ecneser P 

dnaenip lanoisseccusetal dnadim ni seicepseseht 

etani cidh pleot desu eb l l iwtserof kao/eni p 

eseht niniatniam gni tnemeganam fo sseneeffe vitc

.seit inummoc 

4 0.8 

10.71 

5-4 
3. Are key successional stage habitats being 

provided? 

Forest goals, objectives, and standards have been 

established for maintaining a balance between 

the early, mid-, and late-successional habitat 

conditions. Some wildlife species depend on 

early- successional forests, while others depend 

on late-successional forests. Trends in 

successional conditions and abundance of key 

successional habitats, such as old growth and 

permanent wildlife openings, will be monitored. 

Population trends of Management Indicator 

Species selected to help indicate effects of 

management on successional habitats will be 

monitored. 

tn emeganaM rof sno sa e R detal e R 

rotacidnI detaico s sA/noi tc el e S s evi tc ejbO 

s eic ep S yt inummoCt s eroF 

relbraw eiriar P 

aci ordneD( 

)rolocsid 

ni sdnert dna ,ecneser P 

ecnerrucco fo ycneuqerf 

-ylrae ni seiceps siht fo 

lliw stserof lanoisseccus 

etacidni pleh ot desu eb 

fo ssenevitceffe eht 

gniveihca ni tnemeganam 

nihtiw snoitidnoc derised 

.statibah eseht 

10.8 

6 0.8 

s 'n osniaw S ni sdnert dna ecneser P 10.4 

rel braw 

si pylh ton mi L( 

)iinosnia ws 

ecnerrucco fo ycneuqerf 

ni seiceps siht fo 

rehto dna sekarbenac 

lanoisseccus -ylrae 

eb lliw statibah nairapir 

eht etacidni pleh ot desu 

fo ssenevitceffe 

gniveihca ni tnemeganam 

.snoitidnoc derised 

worraps dlei F 

allezipS( 

)allisup 

ni sdnert dna ecneser P 

ecnerrucco fo ycneuqerf 

ni seiceps siht fo 

/dnalssarg/dnal doow 

eb lliw statibah annavas 

2 0.8 

3 0.8 

eht etacidni pleh ot desu 

fo ssenevitceffe 

gniveihca ni tnemeganam 

.snoitidnoc derised 

naciremA ni sdnert dna ecneser P 10.4 

kcocd o ow 

( xap olocS 

roni m ) 

ecnerrucco fo ycneuqerf 

ylrae ni seiceps siht fo 

nairapir lanoisseccus 

ot desu e b lliw statibah 

eht etcidni pleh 

fo ssenevitceffe 

gniveihca ni tnemeganam 

snoitidnoc derised 

5-5 
4. How well are key terrestrial habitat 

attributes being provided? 

Special habitat attributes such as hard and soft 

mast, den trees, snags, and downed wood are 

necessary elements for certain species. A variety 

of Forest Plan goals, objectives, and standards 

protect, restore, and maintain these elements. 

Trends in the abundance and condition of key 

terrestrial habitat attributes and associated 

Management Indicator Species will be 

monitored. 

macroinvertebrates in cool water, cold water, and 

warm water aquatic communities. 

6. What are status and trends of forest health 

threats on the Sumter? 

Measures designed to control or mitigate 

negative effects of insects, disease, non-native 

invasive species, air pollution, and high fuel 

levels are important aspects of this Forest Plan. 

Trends in occurrence and effects of air 

pollutants, wildland fire, insects and diseases, 

and non-native invasive species will be 

monitored. 

tn em egan a M 

rotacidnI 

s eic ep S 

detaeli P 

rekcepdo ow 

( supocoyrD

s u taelip )

rof sno sa e R d etal e R 

n oitc el e S / d etaico s sA bO j s evitc e

etubirttA tatibaH 

sdnert dna ,ecneserP ee S 

fo ycneuqerf ni dradnats 

siht fo ecnerrucco 81 -WF 

eht ssorca seiceps 

ot desu eb lliw tserof 

eht etacidni pleh 

fo ssenevitceffe 

ni tnemeganam 

derised gniniatniam 

ot evitaler noiti dnoc 

.sgans fo ecnadnu ba 

5. What is the status and trend in aquatic 

habitat conditions in relationship to aquatic 

communities? 

The Forest Plan protects and restores riparian 

ecosystems, wetlands, and aquatic systems and 

assures that aquatic habitat conditions are 

suitable to maintain native aquatic communities. 

Water and habitat quantity and quality, in-stream 

large woody debris, and aquatic species passage 

will be monitored. Population trends for aquatic 

management indicators in relation to the habitat 

conditions they are selected to represent will be 

monitored. These indicators are the presence and 

abundance of fish and aquatic 

7. What are the status and trends of 

federally listed species and populations or 

habitats for species with viability concerns 

on the Sumter? 

Contribution to conservation and recovery of 

federally listed threatened and endangered 

species, and federal candidates for listing, is 

an important goal of this Forest Plan. Trends 

in occurrence or abundance of these species 

will be monitored along with levels of 

management activities implemented for the 

purpose of achieving recovery.

 Maintaining habitat capable of supporting 

viable populations of native and desired nonnative species is also an important goal of the 

Forest Plan. Many objectives and standards are 

designed to meet this goal. Monitoring will 

focus on trends for populations and/or habitats 

of species of viability concern. Where feasible, 

species monitoring will often be accomplished 

by monitoring communities of species (i.e., fish, 

bats, birds). 

5-6 
8. What are the trends for demand species 

and their use? 

The Sumter National Forest provides large 

public ownership with opportunities for hunting, 

fishing, wildlife viewing, and collection of 

special forest products. Monitoring of some 

game species populations and/or harvest levels 

will be done in coordination with the South 

Carolina Department of Natural Resources 

(DNR). Some of these species are selected as 

Management Indicator Species where effects of 

national forest management are important to 

meeting public demand, and monitoring 

assistance from the SCDNR is available. Some 

species that are collected as special forest 

products will be monitored through management 

of the permitting process. In addition, trends in 

harvest levels, other population indices, license 

sales, and Wildlife Management Area (WMA) 

permit sales will be used to indicate 

effectiveness of management of habitat, as well 

as meeting public demand for deer, turkey, and 

bear hunting. 

tn em egana M d etal e R 

rotacidnI noitc el e S rof no sa e R s evitc ejbO 

s eic ep S 

liau q etihwboB secidni noitalupop ni sdnerT 8 0 .8 

s u nilo C( etacidni pleh ot desu eb lliw 9 0 .8 

)sunainigri v tnemeganam fo ssenevitceffe 

rof dnamed cilbup gniteem ni 

.seiceps siht 

dliw nretsaE secidni noitalupop ni sdnerT , 30.8 ,20.8 

yekrut eb lliw slevel tsevrah dna , 60.8 ,40.8 

sirgaeleM( f o tluser etaulave pleh ot desu ,80.8 ,70.8 

)o vapollag siht no seitivitca tnemeganam 9 0.8 

.seiceps dnamed hgih 

rae b kcalB secidni noitalupop ni sdnerT 2 0.8 

s usr U( eb lliw slevel tsevrah dna 5 0.8 

)sunacire ma f o tluser etaulave pleh ot desu 6 0.8 

siht no seitivitca tnemeganam 

.seice ps eliforp hgih 

9. Are high quality, nature-based 

recreational experiences being provided and 

what are the trends? 

The Sumter National Forest offers a unique 

combination of nature based dispersed 

recreation, including undeveloped settings, built 

environments reinforcing natural character, and 

wildland settings that complement enjoyment of 

special places. This Forest Plan aims to provide 

for safe, natural, well-designed, accessible, and 

well-maintained recreational opportunities for all 

visitors. Monitoring visitor experiences and the 

condition of facilities will help gage the 

effectiveness in meeting this commitment. 

10. What are the status and trends of 

recreational use impacts on the environment? 

This Forest Plan is committed to providing 

recreational opportunities that are compatible 

with stewardship of forest resources. Impacts of 

motorized uses, site occupancy, and large 

volumes of users on riparian, stream and aquatic 

resources, vegetation, and soils will 

be monitored. 

5-7 
11. What are the status and trend of 

wilderness character? 

Wilderness character is comprised of both 

human and biophysical elements. Monitoring the 

human elements requires monitoring trends in 

the human experiences, i.e., solitude, crowding, 

etc., as well as trends in the use patterns and 

visitor impacts. User monitoring and surveys 

will allow for tracking trends among visitors to 

wilderness, while trailhead use and identification 

of sites with impacts will allow us to track 

movement and activities within wilderness and 

relationships to biophysical effects. Monitoring 

biophysical elements is important for tracking 

changes to the natural systems because of natural 

and human influences within and outside the 

wilderness. Although there are many 

components to the biophysical element, air 

quality is viewed as a basic indicator of 

wilderness health. Additionally, changes that are 

occurring in wilderness due to the fire regime, 

especially in fire dependent communities, will be 

monitored. 

12. What are the status and trend of Wild 

and Scenic River conditions? 

A free-flowing condition and the presence of 

Outstandingly Remarkable Values are the two 

main elements in determining the eligibility and 

suitability of a river to be included in the 

National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. 

Rivers determined to be eligible, or eligible and 

suitable that have not yet been designated by 

Congress must have those elements protected 

until a further designation is assigned. 

Monitoring changes to these elements will help 

us evaluate our management of these rivers on 

the Sumter. 

13. Are the scenery and recreational settings 

changing and why? 

Scenery and recreational settings are managed 

by establishing Scenic Integrity Objectives (SIO) 

and Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) 

class management direction. Management of 

scenery and settings is essential in managing 

recreational experiences and the quality of the 

environment. Changes in scenic quality of the 

forest and the recreational settings will be 

monitored. 

14. Are heritage sites being protected? 

Heritage resources listed or eligible for listing on 

the National Register of Historic Places along 

with other designated properties (including 

World Heritage Sites, National Historic 

Landmarks, and National Historic Trails) are 

preserved and protected from both natural forces 

and vandalism. Heritage resources at risk are 

monitored on a regular schedule in accordance 

with general preservation plans, site-specific 

plans, and other treatments specified by 

agreements. Heritage Preservation Plans (HPP) 

are developed and implemented, either on an 

individual basis or by heritage resource site type, 

for at risk properties. HPP are designed to 

protect those qualities and values that contribute 

to the property’s significance.

 Prehistoric and historic artifacts, investigation 

field records, and historic archival data, 

including photographs, maps, and information 

sources, are maintained to national curatorial 

and/or archival standards (36 CFR 79 Curation 

of Federally Owned Collections). 

Archaeological Resource Protection Act 

(ARPA) investigations are completed in a timely 

manner at properties that have been damaged by 

illegal activities. Damage assessments are 

developed in accordance with ARPA and agency 

guidelines. 

15. Are watersheds maintained (and where 

necessary restored) to provide resilient and 

stable conditions to support the quality and 

quantity of water necessary to protect 

ecological functions and support intended 

beneficial uses? 

This Forest Plan provides for management of 

watersheds to provide resilient and stable 

5-8 
conditions to protect soil productivity and 

support the quality and quantity of water 

necessary to protect ecological functions and 

support intended beneficial water uses. 

Numerous best management practices are 

established as standards or where appropriate 

part of the implementation guidelines for 

practices to carry out during implementation of 

the Forest Plan. Watershed condition, 

improvement needs, water quality, soil 

productivity and implementation of best 

management practices and forest standards will 

be monitored. Procedures for estimating effects 

will be periodically checked or validated to be 

sure they are meeting their intent. 

16. What are the conditions and trends of 

riparian area, wetland and floodplain 

functions and values? 

Riparian ecosystems restoration and 

management is important to maintain aquatic 

resources and values. Desired conditions, 

including the composition and structure of 

vegetation, equipment limitations, maintaining 

ground cover and stable stream-banks are 

established in the Forest Plan. Floodplains and 

wetlands are to be protected when possible and 

activities minimized or mitigated when they 

impact these areas. Consistency with direction 

including Executive Orders 11988 concerning 

floodplains and 11990 concerning wetlands need 

to be evaluated. Riparian management practices 

and standards, ground cover, stream bank 

stability, wetland and floodplain status will be 

monitored. 

17. How do actual outputs and services 

compare with projected? [36 CFR 219.12(k)1] 

The 1982 NFMA implementing regulations 

require that outputs and services be monitored 

and compared to those projected in the Forest 

Plan. Trends in forest product, mineral leasing 

and surface rights, access and road conditions, 

and Forest Plan implementation costs will be 

tracked and compared to projections made at the 

time the Forest Plan was developed. 

18. Are silvicultural requirements of the 

Forest Plan being met? 

The 1982 NFMA implementing regulations also 

require monitoring of specific silvicultural 

requirements. Silvicultural practices, harvest 

methods, harvest unit size, regeneration 

establishment, and land suitability for timber 

productions will be monitored and evaluated to 

determine if and when changes may be needed. 

19. Are Forest Plan objectives and 

standards being applied and accomplishing 

their intended purpose? 

Periodic review of objectives and standards 

established in the Forest Plan is required to 

assure desired condition are being achieved 

and that these requirements will stay current 

given Forest Plan modifications, changed 

conditions and new information that 

accumulate over time. Implementation and 

effectiveness of best management practices 

and other standards will be tracked and 

periodically evaluated. 

Research Needs 

A key element of adaptive management is 

monitoring. Another is research. Ongoing 

monitoring will identify needs for further 

research as the plan is implemented. At its 

inception; however, the plan can identify areas 

of concern that can be the subject of “research 

needs.” 

Riparian 

There is a need for more information on the 

appropriate corridor for a physiographic area or 

zone given the goals and objectives of managing 

riparian areas. We need to know more about how 

we can best determine the effectiveness of 

5-9 
riparian corridors to meet riparian area functions 

and values. Research is extant relative to 

hydrology, vegetation, sediment, nutrient 

loading, and water temperature, but some 

functions and values in the riparian area are not 

as well studied. Recreation impacts on water 

quality and riparian areas, specifically OHVs 

and equestrian use, are topics for which more 

information is needed. 

Conduct inventory and compile an 

assessment of proper functioning condition of 

streams in the piedmont.

 Conduct an inventory and compile an 

assessment of riparian conditions for water 

quality protection, restoration of hydrologic 

function, vegetative composition, and wildlife 

habitat. 

Vegetation 

Determine appropriate methods for restoring and 

maintaining understories in fire-associated 

communities (i.e., shortleaf pine-oak and table 

mountain pine woodlands and savannas) on the 

Sumter National Forest.

 Determine appropriate methods for managing 

sustainable populations of the small whorled 

pogonia on the Sumter National Forest.

 Determine appropriate methods for restoring 

oak, longleaf pine, shortleaf pine and associated 

species on sites dominated by loblolly pine on 

the Sumter National Forest.

 Identify and classify physical (soil, water, air, 

geology, etc.) characteristics on the Sumter 

National Forest where habitats are suitable for 

recruitment and/or management of rare, 

threatened or endangered flora. 

Wildlife 

Determine feasible and efficient methods for 

monitoring trends of amphibian populations on 

the Sumter National Forest.

 Determine feasible and efficient methods for 

monitoring trends of bat populations on the 

Sumter National Forest.

 Determine feasible and efficient methods for 

monitoring trends of winter resident land bird 

populations on the Sumter National Forest.

 Determine feasible and efficient methods for 

monitoring trends and relationships between 

distribution and abundance of crayfish 

populations.

 Determine feasible and efficient methods for 

monitoring tends and relationships between 

distribution and abundance of mollusk 

populations. 

Prescribed Fire 

Determine the effects of growing season and 

frequent burning on soil productivity, water 

quality, mast-producing species, invertebrate 

diversity and abundance, and other effects on 

wildlife. 

Cultural Resources 

Complete a cultural resources overview and 

determine the numbers and types of sites needed 

to model prehistoric and historic land use on the 

forest. 

Archaeological site on the Enoree 

Ranger District. 

5-10 
Appendixes

Appendix A—Relevant Statues, Regulations, Policies and

 Agreements

Appendix B—Glossary

Appendix C—Riparian Corridors

Appendix D—Suitability for Timber Production and

 Timber Sale Program

Appendix E —Monitoring Summary Table

Appendix F—Possible Outputs and Activities for the First

 10 Years (Average Annual)

Appendix G—Mining Proposal Evaluation Process

Appendix H—Vegetation Management Practices

Appendix I—Resource Maps
Appendix A

Relevant Statutes, Regulations, 

Policies, and Agreements

This Appendix contains a listing of relevant 

statutes, regulations, policies and agreements 

applicable to the Forest Service. This section has 

been updated from the Proposed Revised Forest 

Plan to include brief summaries of the statutes, 

regulations and Executive Orders. Web site 

locations where the text of the documents can be 

obtained are also provided where available. 

Forest Service Directives 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

The following is a partial listing of national and 

regional Forest Service policies relevant to this 

Land and Resource Management Plan. A complete 

listing can be found in Forest Service Manuals 

and Forest Service Handbooks. Together, these are 

known as the Forest Service Directives System. 

The Directives System is the primary basis 

for the management and control of all internal 

programs and serves as the primary source 

of administrative direction for Forest Service 

employees. The system sets forth legal authorities, 

management objectives, policies, responsibilities, 

delegations, standards, procedures, and other 

instructions. 

The Forest Service Manual (FSM) contains 

legal authorities, goals, objectives, policies, 

responsibilities, instructions, and the necessary 

guidance to plan and execute assigned programs 

and activities.

 Forest Service Handbooks (FSH) are directives 

that provide instructions and guidance on how to 

proceed with a specialized phase of a program or 

activity. Handbooks either are based on a part of 

the Manual or they incorporate external directives.

 Here is a listing of the Forest Service Manual 

system and referenced Handbooks: 

Forest Service Manuals 

1010 Laws, Regulations, and Orders 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_1000.html 

1020 Forest Service Mission 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_1000.html 

1500 External Relations 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_1000.html 

1600 Information Resources 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_1000.html 

1900 Planning 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_1000.html 

2060 Eco-system Classification, 

Interpretation, and Application 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_2000.html 

2070 Biological Diversity (Reserved) 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_2000.html 

2200 Range Management 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_2000.html 

2300 Recreation, Wilderness, and Related

 Resource Management 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_2000.html 

2400 Timber Management 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_2000.html 

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2500 Watershed and Air Management 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_2000.html 

2600 Wildlife, Fish, and Sensitive Plant 

Habitat Management 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_2000.html 

2700 Special Uses Management 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_2000.html 

2800 Minerals and Geology 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_2000.html 

3400 Forest Pest Management 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_3000.html 

5100 Fire Management 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_5000.html 

5400 Land Ownership 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_5000.html 

7400 Public Health and Pollution Control

 Facilities 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_7000.html 

7500 Water Storage and Transportation 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_7000.html 

7700 Transportation System 

http://www.fs.fed.us/im/directives/ 

dughtml/fsm_7000.html 

Forest Service Handbooks 

2509.22 Soil and Water Conservation 

Handbook 

http://www.fs.fed.us/cgi-bin/ 

directives/get_dirs/fsh?2509.22!r10_ 

all 

Federal Statutes

American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 

August 11, 1978 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/ 

scripts/ts_search.pl?title=42&sec 

=1996

 Protects and preserves for American Indians 

their inherent right of freedom to believe, 

express, and exercise the traditional religions of 

the American Indian, Eskimo, Aleut, and Native 

Hawaiians, including but not limited to access to 

sites, use and possession of sacred objects and 

the freedom to worship through ceremonial and 

traditional rites. 

Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 

http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/ 

statute.html

 Provides a clear and comprehensive national 

mandate for the elimination of discrimination 

against individuals with disabilities; for clear, 

strong, consistent, enforceable standards 

addressing discrimination against individuals 

with disabilities; to ensure that the federal 

government plays a central role in enforcing the 

standards established in this Act on behalf of 

individuals with disabilities; and to invoke the 

sweep of congressional authority, including the 

power to enforce the fourteenth amendment and 

to regulate commerce, in order to address the 

major areas of discrimination faced by people 

with disabilities. 

Anderson-Mansfield Reforestation and 

Revegetation Act of October 11, 1949 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/ 

scripts/ts_search.pl?title=16&sec 

=581j

 Provides for the reforestation and 

revegetation of National Forest lands and other 

lands under the administration or control of the 

Forest Service. 

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Antiquities Act of June 8, 1906 

http://www.cr.nps.gov/local-law/ 

anti1906.htm

 Prevents the appropriation, excavation, 

injury, or destruction of any historic or 

prehistoric ruin or monument, or any object of 

antiquity, situated on lands owned or controlled 

by the United States without the permission of 

the Secretary of the Interior having jurisdiction 

over the lands on which said antiquities are 

situated; and authorizes the President to declare 

by public proclamation historic landmarks, 

historic and prehistoric structures, and other 

objects of historic or scientific interest that are 

situated upon lands owned or controlled by the 

United States to be national monuments, and to 

reserve as a part thereof parcels of land needed 

for the proper care and management of the 

objects to be protected. 

Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 

October 31, 1979, as amended 1988 

http://www2.cr.nps.gov/laws/ 

archprotect.htm

 Enacted to secure the protection of 

archaeological resources and sites on public and 

Indian lands and to foster increased cooperation 

and exchange of information between 

governmental authorities, the professional 

archaeological community and private 

individuals having access to and information 

related to these resources. 

Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

42/4151.html

 Ensures that standards for the design, 

construction, and alteration of buildings owned, 

leased, or funded by the United States are 

prescribed to ensure, wherever possible, that 

physically handicapped people have ready 

access to and use of such buildings. 

Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant Act of July 22, 

http://laws.fws.gov/lawsdigest/ 

bankjon.html 

 Directed the Secretary of Agriculture to 

develop a program of land conservation and 

utilization in order to correct maladjustments in 

land use and thus assist in such things as control 

of soil erosion, reforestation, preservation of 

natural resources, and protection of fish and 

wildlife. 

Clarke-McNary Act of June 7, 1924 

http://www.senate.gov/~agriculture/ 

Legislation/Agricultural%20Law/ 

Forests/cma.pdf 

Authorizes and directs the Secretary of 

Agriculture, in cooperation with land grant 

colleges and universities or with other suitable 

state agencies, to aid farmers through advice, 

education, demonstrations, or other similar 

means in establishing, renewing, protecting, and 

managing wood lots, shelter belts, windbreakers, 

and other valuable forest growth, and in 

harvesting, utilizing, and marketing the products 

thereof. The Act also authorizes the Secretary 

to accept, on behalf of the United States, title 

to any land donated by private land owners 

to assure future timber supplies or for other 

national forest purposes. 

Clean Air Act of August 7, 1977, as amended 

(1977 and 1990) 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

unframed/42/ch85.html

 Enacted to protect and enhance the quality 

of the Nation’s air resources; to initiate and 

accelerate a national research and development 

program to achieve the prevention and control of 

air pollution; to provide technical and financial 

assistance to state and local governments in 

connection with the development and execution 

of their air pollution prevention and control 

programs; and, to encourage and assist the 

development and operation of regional air 

pollution prevention and control programs. 

Color of Title Act of December 22, 1928 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

43/ch25A.html

 Granted the Secretary of the Interior the 

authority to issue patents up to 160 acres to 

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1937 
claimants that had held a tract of public land in 

good faith and in peaceful, adverse possession 

and had made valuable improvements on 

the land or reduced it to cultivation. The Act 

reserved the rights to coal and all other minerals 

contained therein to the United States. 

Common Varieties of Mineral Materials Act 

of July 31, 1947 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

30/601.html 

Authorizes the Secretaries of the Interior and 

Agriculture, under such rules and regulations 

as they may prescribe, to dispose of mineral 

materials (including but not limited to common 

varieties sand, stone, gravel, pumice, pumicite, 

cinders, and clay) and vegetative materials 

(including but not limited to yucca, manzanita, 

mesquite, cactus, and timber or other forest 

products) on public lands of the United States, 

if the disposal of such materials is not otherwise 

expressly authorized by law, is not expressly 

prohibited by laws of the United States, and 

would not be detrimental to the public interest. 

Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of July 

1, 1978 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/2101.html 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 

assist in the establishment of a coordinated 

and cooperative federal, state, and local forest 

stewardship program for the management of 

non-federal forest lands and forest lands in 

foreign countries. 

Disaster Relief Act of May 22, 1974 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

42/ch68.html

 Provides an orderly and continuing means of 

assistance by the federal government to state and 

local governments in developing, coordinating, 

and carrying out their disaster relief programs, 

and provides federal assistance programs for 

both public and private losses sustained in 

disasters. 

Eastern Wilderness Act of January 3, 1975 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=16&sec=1132

 Established Wilderness areas in the eastern 

United States, proposed several more for 

Wilderness Study, and authorized the Secretary 

of Agriculture to acquire, through purchase, by 

gift, exchange, condemnation, or otherwise such 

lands, waters, or interests therein as determined 

necessary or desirable for the purposes of the 

Act. 

Economy Act of June 30, 1932 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

31/1535.html 

Authorizes the head of a federal agency or 

major organizational unit within an agency 

to obtain goods or services from a major 

organizational unit within the same agency or 

another agency if amounts are available; if it 

is determined to be in the best interest of the 

United States government; the agency or unit 

is able to provide or get by contract the ordered 

goods or services; and the head of the agency 

decides ordered goods or services cannot be 

provided as conveniently or cheaply by a 

commercial enterprise. 

Emergency Flood Prevention (Agricultural 

Credit Act) Act of August 4, 1978 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/2201.html 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture 

to undertake emergency measures for runoff 

retardation and soil-erosion prevention, in 

cooperation with land owners and users, as the 

Secretary deems necessary to safeguard lives 

and property from floods, drought, and the 

products of erosion on any watershed whenever 

fire, flood, or other natural occurrence is causing 

or has caused a sudden impairment of that 

watershed. 

Endangered Species Act of December 28, 

1973 

http://laws.fws.gov/lawsdigest/ 

esact.html 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/ch35.html 

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Authorizes the determination and listing 

of species as endangered and threatened; 

prohibits unauthorized taking, possession, sale, 

and transport of endangered species; provides 

authority to acquire land for the conservation 

of listed species, using Land and Water 

Conservation Funds; authorizes establishment 

of cooperative agreements and grants-in-aid to 

states that establish and maintain programs for 

endangered and threatened wildlife and plants; 

authorizes the assessment of civil and criminal 

penalties for violating the Act or regulations; 

and, authorizes the payment of rewards to 

anyone furnishing information leading to arrest 

and conviction for any violation of the Act or 

any regulation issued there under. Section 7 of 

the Act requires federal agencies to insure that 

any action authorized, funded or carried out by 

them is not likely to jeopardize the continued 

existence of listed species or modify their 

critical habitat. 

Energy Security Act of June 30, 1980 

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/ 

bdquery/z?d096:SN00932: 

@@@L|TOM:/bss/d096query.html| 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 

make available timber resources of the National 

Forest System, in accordance with appropriate 

timber appraisal and sale procedures, for use by 

biomass energy projects. 

Federal Advisory Committee Act of October 

6, 1972 

http://www.nara.gov/fedreg/legal/ 

index.html#faca

 Sets standards and uniform procedures 

to govern the establishment, operation, 

administration, and duration of advisory 

committees. 

Federal Cave Resources Protection Act of 

November 18, 1988 

http://laws.fws.gov/lawsdigest/ 

caveres.html

 Established requirements for the management 

and protection of caves and their resources on 

federal lands, including allowing land managing 

agencies to withhold the location of caves 

from the public, and requiring permits for any 

removal or collecting activities in caves on 

federal lands. 

Federal Coal Leasing Amendments Act of 

August 4, 1976 

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/ 

bdquery/z?d094:SN00391: 

@@@L|TOM:/bss/d094query.html| 

Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior 

to divide lands, subject to the Mineral Lands 

Leasing Act, which have been classified for 

coal leasing into tracts of such size as he finds 

appropriate and in the public interest and which 

can be economically extracted, and, in his 

discretion, upon the request of any qualified 

applicant or on his own motion, from time to 

time offer such lands for leasing by competitive 

bid. 

Federal Insecticide, Rodenticide, and 

Fungicide Act of October 21, 1972 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

unframed/7/ch6.html

 Requires the Administrator of the 

Environmental Protection Agency to prescribe 

standards for the certification of individuals 

authorized to use or supervise the use of any 

pesticide that is classified for restricted use; 

regulates the sale of restricted use pesticides; 

and provides penalties for the unauthorized use 

or sale of restricted use pesticides. 

Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 

October 21, 1976

 http://www4.law.cornell.edu/ 

uscode/unframed/43/ch35.html

 Requires that public lands be managed in a 

manner that will protect the quality of scientific, 

scenic, historical, ecological, environmental, 

air and atmospheric, water resource, and 

archeological values; that, where appropriate, 

will preserve and protect certain public lands in 

their natural condition; that will provide food 

and habitat for fish and wildlife and domestic 

animals; and that will provide for outdoor 

recreation and human occupancy and use. Also 

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states that the United States shall receive fair 

market value of the use of the public lands and 

their resources unless otherwise provided for by 

law. 

Federal Noxious Weed Act of January 3, 1975 

http://laws.fws.gov/lawsdigest/ 

fednox.html 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 

designate plants as noxious weeds by regulation; 

to prohibit the movement of all such weeds in 

interstate or foreign commerce except under 

permit; to inspect, seize and destroy products, 

and to quarantine areas, if necessary to prevent 

the spread of such weeds; and to cooperate with 

other federal, state and local agencies, farmers 

associations, and private individuals in measures 

to control, eradicate, prevent, or retard the 

spread of such weeds. 

Federal Power Act of June 10, 1920 

http://laws.fws.gov/lawsdigest/ 

fedpowr.html

 Provides for cooperation between the Federal 

Energy Regulatory Commission and other 

federal agencies, including resource agencies, in 

licensing and relicensing power projects. 

Federal-State Cooperation for Soil 

Conservation Act of December 22, 1944 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

33/701-1.html 

Authorized the adoption of eleven watershed 

improvement programs in various states for 

the improvement of water runoff, water flow 

retardation, and soil erosion prevention. 

Federal Water Pollution Control Act and 

Amendments of 1972 (Clean Water Act) 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=33&sec=1251

 Enacted to restore and maintain the 

chemical, physical, and ecological integrity of 

the Nation’s waters. Provides for measures to 

prevent, reduce, and eliminate water pollution; 

recognizes, preserves, and protects the 

responsibilities and rights of states to prevent, 

reduce, and eliminate pollution, and to plan the 

development and use (including restoration, 

preservation, and enhancement) of land and 

water resources; and provides for federal support 

and aid of research relating to the prevention, 

reduction, and elimination of pollution, and 

federal technical services and financial aid to 

state and interstate agencies and municipalities 

for the prevention, reduction, and elimination of 

pollution.

 Established goals for the elimination of water 

pollution; required all municipal and industrial 

wastewater to be treated before being discharged 

into waterways; increased federal assistance 

for municipal treatment plant construction; 

strengthened and streamlined enforcement 

policies; and expanded the federal role while 

retaining the responsibility of states for day-today implementation of the law. 

Federal Water Project Recreation Act of July 

9, 1965 

http://laws.fws.gov/lawsdigest/ 

fwatrre.html 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

unframed/16/460l-12.html

 Requires that recreation and fish and wildlife 

enhancement opportunities be considered in 

the planning and development of federal water 

development. 

Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act of 

September 15, 1960 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

unframed/16/670a.html

 Requires the Secretaries of the Interior and 

Agriculture, in cooperation with state agencies, 

to plan, develop, maintain, and coordinate 

programs for the conservation and rehabilitation 

of wildlife, fish, and game on public lands under 

their jurisdiction. 

Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of March 

10, 1934 

http://laws.fws.gov/lawsdigest/ 

fwcoord.html 

Authorizes the Secretaries of Agriculture 

and Commerce to provide assistance to and 

cooperate with other federal and state agencies 

A-6 
to protect, rear, stock, and increase the supply 

of game and fur-bearing animals, as well as 

to study the effects of domestic sewage, trade 

wastes, and other polluting substances on 

wildlife. The Act also authorizes the preparation 

of plans to protect wildlife resources, the 

completion of wildlife surveys on public lands, 

and the acceptance by federal agencies of funds 

or lands for related purposes provided that land 

donations receive the consent of the state in 

which they are located. 

Forest Highways Act of August 27, 1958 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

unframed/23/205.html

 Requires that funds available for forest 

development roads and trails be used by the 

Secretary of Agriculture to pay for the costs of 

construction and maintenance thereof, including 

roads and trails on experimental and other areas 

under Forest Service administration, or for 

adjacent vehicular parking areas and sanitary, 

water, and fire control facilities. Authorizes the 

Secretary of Agriculture to enter into contracts 

with a state or civil subdivision thereof, and 

issue such regulations as he deems desirable. 

Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources 

Planning Act of August 17, 1974 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/ch36.html

 Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to 

prepare a Renewable Resource Assessment 

every ten years; to transmit a recommended 

Renewable Resources Program to the President 

every five years; to develop, maintain, and, 

as appropriate, revise land and resource 

management plans for units of the National 

Forest System; and to ensure that the 

development and administration of the resources 

of the National Forest System are in full accord 

with the concepts of multiple use and sustained 

yield. 

Freedom of Information Act of November 21, 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

unframed/5/ch5.html

 Governs which government records are 

released to the public either automatically or 

upon request. 

Geothermal Steam Act of December 24, 1970 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

30/1001.html 

Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to 

issue leases for the development and utilization 

of geothermal steam and associated geothermal 

resources in any lands administered by him 

or by the Department of Agriculture, and to 

prescribe such rules and regulations as he deems 

appropriate to carry out the provisions of the 

Act. 

Granger-Thye Act of April 24, 1950 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/581i-1.html 

Authorizes the Forest Service to spend 

appropriated funds on buildings, lookout towers, 

and other structures on lands owned by states, 

counties, municipalities, or other political 

subdivisions, corporations, or individuals; 

to procure and operate aerial facilities and 

services for the protection of National Forests; 

to cooperate with and assist public and 

private agencies, organizations, institutions, 

and individuals in performing work on nonforest land for the administration, protection, 

improvement, reforestation, and other kinds of 

work as the Forest Service is authorized to do 

on Forest land; to deposit sums from timber 

purchases to cover the costs of disposing of 

brush and debris; to permit the use of structures 

under its control; to sell nursery stock; and other 

purposes. 

Historic Sites Act of 1935 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/461.html 

Establishes a policy to preserve for public use 

historic sites, buildings, and objects of national 

significance for the benefit of the people. 

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1974 
Historic Preservation Act of October 15, 1966 

http://www.cr.nps.gov/local-law/ 

nhpa1966.htm

 Establishes a program for the preservation 

of additional historic properties throughout the 

nation, and for other purposes. 

Joint Surveys of Watershed Areas Act of 

September 5, 1962 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/1009.html 

Authorizes and directs the Secretaries 

of the Army and Agriculture to make joint 

investigations and surveys of watershed areas 

in the United States, Puerto Rico, and the 

Virgin Islands, and to prepare joint reports 

setting forth their recommendations for 

improvements needed for flood prevention, for 

the conservation, development, utilization, and 

disposal of water, and for flood control. 

Knutson-Vandenberg Act of June 9, 1930 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/576.html 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 

establish forest tree nurseries; to deposit monies 

from timber sale purchasers to cover the costs 

of planting young trees, sowing seed, removing 

undesirable trees or other growth, and protecting 

and improving the future productivity of the 

land; and to furnish seedlings and/or young trees 

for the replanting of burned-over areas in any 

National Park. 

Land Acquisition Act of March 3, 1925 

http://www.wildrockies.org/appeals/ 

68-575.htm 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/ch3.html 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 

purchase land for National Forest headquarters, 

Ranger Stations, dwellings, or other sites 

required for the effective performance of the 

authorized activities of the Forest Service. 

Land Acquisition-Declaration of Taking Act 

of February 26, 1931 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title-40&sec=258a

 Provides for the immediate transfer of land to 

the United States and for just compensation for 

such lands. 

Land Acquisition – Title Adjustment Act of 

July 8, 1943 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=7&sec=2253 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 

execute and deliver title adjustments if, after 

the acquisition of the land, the title thereto is 

legally insufficient for the purposes for which 

the land was acquired or if the land was acquired 

through mistake, misunderstanding, error, or 

inadvertence. 

Land and Water Conservation Fund Act of 

September 3, 1964 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/460l-4.html 

http://classweb.gmu.edu/jkozlows/ 

lwcfregs.htm 

Authorizes the appropriation of funds 

for federal assistance to states in planning, 

acquisition, and development of needed land 

and water areas and facilities and for the federal 

acquisition and development of certain lands 

and other areas for the purposes of preserving, 

developing, and assuring accessibility to outdoor 

recreation resources. 

Law Enforcement Authority Act of March 3, 

1905 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=16&sce=559 

Authorizes all Forest Service employees to 

make arrests for the violation of the laws and 

regulations relating to the national forests. 

Leases Around Reservoirs Act of March 3, 

1962 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/460d-2.html 

A-8 
Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 

amend any lease with respect to lands under the 

jurisdiction of the Forest Service providing for 

the construction, maintenance, and operation 

of commercial recreational facilities at a 

federal reservoir project so as to provide for 

the adjustment of the amount of rental or other 

consideration payable to the United States under 

such lease. 

Mineral Leasing Act of February 25, 1920 

http://ipl.unm.edu/cwl/fedbook/ 

minerall.html

 Provides that the deposits of certain minerals 

on land owned by the United States shall be 

subject to lease to citizens of the United States, 

provided royalties on such deposits are paid to 

the United States. 

Mineral Leasing Act for Acquired Lands Act 

of August 7, 1947 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=30&sec=351

 Extended the provisions of the “mineral 

leasing laws” to those lands previously acquired 

by the United States for which they had not been 

extended, and lands thereafter acquired by the 

United States. 

Mineral Resources on Weeks Law Lands Act 

of March 4, 1917 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=16&sec=520 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture 

to permit the prospecting, development, and 

utilization of the mineral resources of the lands 

acquired under the Weeks Law. 

Mineral Springs Leasing Act of February 28, 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=16&sec=495 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 

rent or lease to responsible persons suitable 

spaces and portions of ground near, or adjacent 

to, mineral, medicinal, or other springs within 

any National Forest where the public is 

accustomed to or desires to frequent for health 

or pleasure. 

Mining Claims Rights Restoration Act of 

August 11, 1955 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

30/621.html

 States that all public lands belonging to the 

United States which have been withdrawn or 

reserved for power development or power sites 

shall be open to entry for location and patent of 

mining claims and mineral development, subject 

to certain conditions. 

Mining and Minerals Policy Act of December 

31, 1970 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

30/21a.html

 States that it is the policy of the federal 

government to foster and encourage the 

development of economically sound and 

stable domestic mining, minerals, metal, and 

mineral reclamation industries; the orderly and 

economic development of domestic mineral 

resources, reserves, and reclamation of metals 

and minerals to help assure satisfaction of 

industrial, security, and environmental needs; 

mining, mineral, and metallurgical research to 

promote the wise and efficient use of our natural 

and reclaimable mineral resources; and the study 

and development of methods for the disposal, 

control, and reclamation of mineral waste 

products and the reclamation of mined land. 

Multiple-Use Sustained-Yield Act of June 12, 

1960 

http://ipl.unm.edu/cwl/fedbook/ 

multiu.html

 States that it is the policy of Congress 

that the national forests are established and 

shall be administered for outdoor recreation, 

range, timber, watershed, and wildlife and 

fish purposes, and authorizes and directs 

the Secretary of Agriculture to develop and 

administer the renewable surface resources of 

the national forests for the multiple use and 

sustained yield of the products and services 

obtained therefrom. 

A-9 

1899 
National Environmental Education Act of 

November 16, 1970 

http://ipl.unm.edu/cwl/fedbook/ 

natened.html

 Enacted to establish and support a program 

of environmental education for students and 

personnel working with students in schools, 

institutions of higher education, and related 

educational facilities, and to encourage 

postsecondary students to pursue careers related 

to the environment. 

National Environmental Policy Act of 

January 1, 1970 

http://es.epa.gov/oeca/ofa/nepa.html

 Directs all federal agencies to consider and 

report the potential environmental impacts of 

proposed federal actions, and established the 

Council on Environmental Quality. 

National 1990 Farm Bill (title XII – Forest 

Stewardship Act) Act of November 28, 1990 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=16&sec=582a

 Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to 

establish a competitive forestry, natural 

resources, and environmental grants program, 

and provides for other research programs. 

National Forest Management Act of October 

22, 1976 

http://ipl.unm.edu/cwl/fedbook/ 

nfma.html 

The National Forest Management Act 

reorganized, expanded and otherwise amended 

the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources 

Planning Act of 1974, which called for the 

management of renewable resources on 

National Forest lands. The National Forest 

Management Act requires the Secretary of 

Agriculture to assess forest lands, develop a 

management program based on multiple-use, 

sustained-yield principles, and implement a 

resource management plan for each unit of 

the National Forest System. It is the primary 

statute governing the administration of National 

Forests. 

National Forest Roads and Trails Act of 

October 13, 1964 

http://www.house.gov/resources/ 

105cong/reports/105_a/roads_.pdf 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 

provide for the acquisition, construction, and 

maintenance of forest development roads within 

and near the National Forests through the use 

of appropriated funds, deposits from timber 

sale purchasers, cooperative financing with 

other public agencies, or a combination of these 

methods. The Act also authorizes the Secretary 

to grant rights-of-way and easements over 

national forest lands. 

National Historic Preservation Act of 

December 12, 1980 as amended (1980 and 

1992) 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/470.html 

Authorized the federal government to 

accelerate its historic preservation programs 

and activities; to give maximum encouragement 

to agencies and individuals undertaking 

preservation by private means; and to assist state 

and local governments and the National Trust 

for Historic Preservation in the United States to 

expand and accelerate their historic preservation 

programs and activities. 

National Trails System Act of October 2, 1968 

http://ipl.unm.edu/cwl/fedbook/ 

nattrail.html

 Established a national system of recreation, 

scenic, and historic trails by designating the 

initial components of the system and prescribing 

the methods and standards through which 

additional components may be added. 

Native American Graves Protection and 

Repatriation Act of November 16, 1990 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

25/3001.html

 Directs that the ownership and control of 

Native American human remains and objects 

shall be given to the ancestors of the Native 

American or to the appropriate Native American 

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tribe. 

Occupancy Permits Act of March 4, 1915 

http://www.wy.blm.gov/Information/ 

fai/wynf.0001(99).pdf 

http://www.wildrockies.org/appeals/ 

63-293.htm 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture 

to permit, under such regulations as he may 

prescribe, the use and occupancy of suitable 

areas of land within the National Forests for the 

purpose of constructing or maintaining hotels, 

resorts, or other structures necessary or desirable 

for recreation, public convenience, or safety; to 

permit the use and occupancy of suitable land 

for the purpose of constructing or maintaining 

summer homes; to permit the use and occupancy 

of suitable land for the purpose of constructing 

or maintaining buildings, structures, and 

facilities for industrial or commercial purposes 

when such use is consistent with other uses of 

the National Forest; and to permit any state or 

political subdivision thereof to use or occupy 

suitable land for the purpose of constructing or 

maintaining buildings, structures, or facilities 

necessary or desirable for education or for any 

other public use or in connection with any other 

public activity. 

Oil and Gas Leasing Reform Act of 1987 

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/ 

bdquery/z?d100:HR03545: 

@@@D|TOM:/bss/d100query.html 

Amended the Mineral Lands Leasing Act 

of 1920 regarding competitive leasing of oil 

and gas for onshore federal lands. Sets forth 

guidelines for the promulgation of regulations 

regarding lease sales, and prohibits the issuance 

of oil or gas leases upon certain lands allocated 

or designated as Wilderness areas. 

Organic Administration Act of June 4, 1897 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=16&sec=473 

Authorizes the President to modify or revoke 

any instrument creating a National Forest; states 

that no National Forest may be established 

except to improve and protect the forest within 

its boundaries, for the purpose of securing 

favorable conditions of water flows, and to 

furnish a continuous supply of timber for the use 

and necessities of citizens of the United States. 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 

promulgate rules and regulations to regulate the 

use and occupancy of the National Forests. 

Petrified Wood Act of September 28, 1962 

Document Attached – Post on 

Chugach Web and link 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 

promulgate regulations under which limited 

quantities of petrified wood may be removed 

from the National Forests. 

Pipelines Act of February 25, 1920 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

30/185.html 

Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior or 

appropriate agency head to grant rights-of-way 

through any federal lands for pipeline purposes 

for the transportation of oil, natural gas, 

synthetic liquid or gaseous fuels, or any refined 

product produced there from to any applicant 

possessing the qualifications provided in the Act. 

. 

Preservation of Historical and Archaeological 

Data Act of May 24, 1974 

http://www2.cr.nps.gov/laws/ 

archpreserv.htm 

Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior 

to undertake the recovery, protection, 

and preservation of significant scientific, 

prehistorical, historical, or archeological 

data whenever any federal agency finds or 

is notified that activities in connection with 

any federal construction project or federally 

licensed project, activity, or program may cause 

irreparable loss or destruction of such data. 

Public Buildings Cooperative Use Act of 1976 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/ 

casecode/uscodes/40/chapters/12/ 

sections/section_601a.html 

Authorizes the federal government to acquire 

and utilize space in suitable buildings of historic, 

architectural, or cultural significance, unless 

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use of such space would not prove feasible and 

prudent compared with available alternatives; to 

encourage the location of commercial, cultural, 

educational, and recreational facilities and 

activities within public buildings; to provide 

and maintain space, facilities, and activities, to 

the extent practicable, which encourages public 

access to and stimulates public pedestrian traffic 

around, into, and through public buildings, 

permitting cooperative improvements to and 

uses of the area between the building and the 

street, so that such activities complement and 

supplement commercial, cultural, educational, 

and recreational resources in the neighborhood 

of public buildings; and to encourage the public 

use of public buildings for cultural, educational, 

and recreational activities. 

Public Land Surveys Act of March 3, 1899 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/488.text.html 

http://www.lib.duke.edu/forest/ 

usfscoll/092-097.htm

 Provides that all standard, meander, 

township, and section lines of the public land 

surveys shall be established under the direction 

and supervision of the Commissioner of the 

General Land Office, whether the lands to be 

surveyed are within or without reservations, 

except that where the exterior boundaries of 

public forest reservations are required to be 

coincident with standard, township, or section 

lines, such boundaries may, if not previously 

established in the ordinary course of the public 

land surveys, be established and marked under 

the supervision of the Director of the United 

States Geological survey. This act made the 

surveying of forest-reserve lands identical, in all 

but the establishment of boundaries, with that of 

the public domain. 

Public Rangelands Improvement Act of 

October 25, 1978 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/ 

casecode/uscodes/43/chapters/37/ 

sections/section_1901.html

 Establishes and reaffirms the national policy 

and commitment to inventory and identify 

current public rangeland conditions and trends; 

manage, maintain and improve the condition 

of public rangelands so that they become as 

productive as feasible for all rangeland values 

in accordance with management objectives and 

the land use planning process; charge a fee for 

public grazing use which is equitable; continue 

the policy of protecting wild free-roaming 

horses and burros from capture, branding, 

harassment, or death, while at the same time 

facilitating the removal and disposal of excess 

wild free-roaming horses and burros which pose 

a threat to themselves and their habitat and to 

other rangeland values. 

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/ 

casecode/uscodes/29/chapters/16/ 

miscs/0/sections/section_701.html

 States that it is national policy that the federal 

government plays a leadership role in promoting 

the employment of individuals with disabilities, 

and in assisting states and providers of services 

in fulfilling the aspirations of such individuals 

with disabilities for meaningful and gainful 

employment and independent living. 

Renewable Resources Extension Act of June 

30, 1978 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/ 

casecode/uscodes/16/chapters/36/ 

subchapters/iii/sections/section_ 

1671.html 

Authorizes and directs the Secretary of 

Agriculture, in cooperation with the state 

Directors of the Cooperative Extension Service 

programs, to provide educational programs 

relating to forest and rangeland renewable 

resources. 

Reorganization Plan Numbered 3 of 1946 

http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/ 

title5a/5a_4_8_1_.html

 Creates the Environmental Protection Agency 

(EPA), abolishes the Federal Water Quality 

Administration under the Department of the 

Interior, and transfers those functions to the 

EPA. 

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1888 

Research Grants Act of September 6, 1958 

http://laws.fws.gov/lawsdigest/ 

researc.html 

Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to 

enter into contracts with educational institutions, 

public or private agencies or organizations, or 

persons to conduct scientific or technological 

research. 

Right of Eminent Domain Act of August 1, 

http://caselaw.lp.finlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=40&sec=257

 Grants the Secretary of the Treasury or 

any other officer of the government who has 

been authorized to procure real estate for the 

erection of a building or for other public uses 

the authority to acquire such real estate by 

condemnation, provided such acquisition is 

otherwise authorized by statute. 

Rural Development Act of August 30, 1972

 http://www.reeusda.gov/1700/legis/ 

ruraldev.htm 

Enacted to provide multi-state regional 

agencies, states, counties, cities, multi-county 

planning and development districts, businesses, 

industries, Indian tribes on federal and state 

reservations or other federally recognized Indian 

tribal groups and others involved with public 

services and investments in rural areas or that 

provide or may provide employment in these 

areas the best available scientific, technical, 

economic, organizational, environmental, and 

management information and knowledge useful 

to them, and to assist and encourage them in the 

interpretation and application of this information 

to practical problems and needs in rural 

development. 

Safe Drinking Water Amendments of 

November 18, 1977 

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/ 

bdquery/z?d095:SN01528:|TOM: 

/bss/d095query.html| 

Amended the Safe Drinking Water Act to 

authorize appropriations for research conducted 

by the Environmental Protection Agency 

relating to safe drinking water; federal grants 

to states for public water system supervision 

programs and underground water source 

protection programs; and grants to assist special 

studies relating to the provision of a safe supply 

of drinking water. 

Secure Rural Schools and Community SelfDetermination Act of 2000 

http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/ 

payments/ 

Through this law the Forest Service gives 

rural communities the means to build and 

improve schools, provide road maintenance, 

emergency services, and conservation programs 

for their citizens. Thus, communities are no 

longer dependent on federal timber sales from 

national forests to improve local schools and 

roads. 

Sikes Act of October 18, 1974 

http://laws.fws.gov/lawsdigest/ 

sikes.html 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/670a.html

 Provides for cooperation between the 

Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of 

the Interior to provide for conservation and 

rehabilitation of natural resources on military 

installations. 

Small Tracts Act of January 22, 1983 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/521e.html 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 

sell, exchange, or interchange by quitclaim 

deed all right, title and interest, including the 

mineral estate, of the United States in and to 

certain lands within the National Forest when he 

determines it to be in the public interest. 

Smokey Bear Act of May 23, 1952 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/ 

casecode/uscodes/18/parts/i/ 

chapters/33/sections/section_ 

711.html 

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 Prohibits the unauthorized use of the 

“Smokey Bear” character or name. 

Soil and Water Resources Conservation Act 

of November 18, 1977 

http://ipl.unm.edu/cwl/fedbook/ 

soilwate.html

 Provides for a continuing appraisal of the 

United State’s soil, water and related resources, 

including fish and wildlife habitats, and a 

soil and water conservation program to assist 

landowners and land users in furthering soil and 

water conservation. 

Solid Waste Disposal (Resource Conservation 

& Recovery Act) Act of October 21, 1976 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

42/6901.html

 Promotes the protection of health and the 

environment and the conservation of valuable 

material and energy resources by providing 

technical and financial assistance to state and 

local governments and interstate agencies for 

the improvement of solid waste management 

techniques. 

Supplemental National Forest Reforestation 

Fund Act of September 18, 1972 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/576c.html

 Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to 

establish a supplemental national reforestation 

fund, and states that money transferred to this 

fund shall be available to the Secretary for the 

purpose of supplementing programs of tree 

planting and seeding on National Forest lands 

determined by the Secretary to be in need of 

reforestation. 

Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act 

of August 3, 1977 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/ 

casecode/uscodes/30/chapters/25/ 

subchapters/i/sections/section_ 

1201.html 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture 

to enter into agreements with landowners, 

providing for land stabilization, erosion, and 

sediment control, and reclamation through 

conservation treatment, including measures for 

the conservation and development of soil, water, 

woodland, wildlife, and recreation resources, 

and agricultural productivity of such lands. 

Sustained Yield Forest Management Act of 

March 29, 1944 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=16&sec=583 

Authorizes the Secretaries of Agriculture and 

the Interior to establish by formal declaration 

cooperative sustained-yield units which shall 

consist of federally owned or administered forest 

land under their jurisdiction and, in addition 

thereto, land which reasonably may be expected 

to be made the subject of one or more of the 

cooperative agreements with private landowners 

authorized by section 2 of the Act in order to 

promote the stability of forest industries, of 

employment, of communities, and of taxable 

forest wealth through continuous supplies of 

timber and forest products; and in order to 

secure the benefits of forests in the maintenance 

of water supply, regulation of stream flow, 

prevention of soil erosion, amelioration of 

climate, and preservation of wildlife. 

Timber Export Act of March 4, 1917 

http://www.fs.fed.us/r10/chugach/ 

revision/pdfs/timber_export_act.pdf

 Permits the Secretary of Agriculture to allow 

timber or other forest products to be cut or 

removed from a national forest and exported 

from the state or territory in which that national 

forest is situated. 

Timber Exportation Act of April 12, 1926 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/617.html 

Authorizes the exportation of lawfully cut 

timber from the state or territory where grown 

if the supply of timber for local use will not 

be endangered, and authorizes the Secretary 

to issue rules and regulations to carry out the 

provisions of the Act. 

Title Adjustment Act of April 28, 1930 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=43&sec=872 

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Authorizes the Secretaries of the Interior and 

Agriculture to execute a quitclaim deed where 

an application for a conveyance of land has been 

withdrawn or rejected. 

Toxic Substances Control Act of October 11, 

1976 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/ 

casecode/uscodes/15/chapters/53/ 

subchapters/i/sections/section_ 

2601.html

 Grants the Administrator of the 

Environmental Protection Agency the authority 

to regulate chemical substances and mixtures, 

which present an unreasonable risk of injury to 

the public health or the environment, and to take 

action with respect to chemical substances and 

mixtures, which are imminent hazards. 

Transfer Act of February 1, 1905 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=16&sec=472 

Transferred the management and control 

of the Forest Reserves from the General Land 

Office (GLO) in the Department of the Interior 

to the Bureau of Forestry in the Department of 

Agriculture. 

Twenty-Five Percent Fund Act of May 23, 

1908 

http://www.wildrockies.org/appeals/ 

60-136.htm

 Provides that twenty-five percent of all 

monies received from the sale of timber or other 

forest products shall be paid to the state in which 

such forest is located to be expended as the state 

may prescribe for the benefit of public schools 

and roads. 

Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards U.S. 

Criminal Code (Title 18 USC Chapter 91 

– Public Lands) Act of June 25, 1948 

http://www.wildrockies.org/appeals/ 

80-772.htm 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/ 

casecode/uscodes/18/parts/i/ 

chapters/91/toc.html

 Defines the crimes and criminal procedure 

for crimes committed against public lands. 

U.S. Mining Laws (Public Domain Lands) Act 

of May 10, 1872 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/ 

uscode/30/22.html

 Provides that all valuable mineral deposits 

in lands belonging to the United States, both 

surveyed and unsurveyed, are free and open to 

exploration and purchase, and the lands in which 

they are found to occupation and purchase by 

citizens of the United States and those who have 

declared their intention to become such, under 

regulations prescribed by law, and according 

to the local customs or rules of miners, so far 

as the same are applicable and not inconsistent 

with the laws of the United States. There are a 

number of Acts which modify the mining laws 

as applied to local areas by prohibiting entry 

altogether or by limiting or restricting the use 

which may be made of the surface and the right, 

title, or interest which may pass through patent. 

Volunteers in the National Forests Act of May 

18, 1972 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/558a.html 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture 

to recruit, train, and accept without regard 

to the civil service classification laws, rules, 

or regulations the services of individuals 

without compensation as volunteers for or in 

aid of interpretive functions, visitor services, 

conservation measures and development, 

or other activities in and related to areas 

administered by the Secretary through the Forest 

Service. 

Water Quality Improvement Act of April 3, 

1970 

http://laws.fws.gov/lawsdigest/ 

fwatrpo.html 

Amends the prohibitions of oil discharges, 

authorizes the President to determine quantities 

of oil which would be harmful to the public 

heath or welfare of the United States; to publish 

a National Contingency Plan to provide for 

coordinated action to minimize damage from 

oil discharges. Requires performance standards 

for marine sanitation device and authorizes 

A-15 
demonstration projects to control acid or other 

mine pollution, and to control water pollution 

within the watersheds of the Great Lakes. 

Requires that applicants for federal permits for 

activities involving discharges into navigable 

waters provide state certification that they will 

not violate applicable water quality standards 

Water Resources Planning Act of July 22, 

1965 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

42/1962.html

 Encourages the conservation, development, 

and utilization of water and related 

land resources of the United States on a 

comprehensive and coordinated basis by the 

federal government, states, localities, and private 

enterprises. 

Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention 

Act of August 4, 1954 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/1001.html

 Establishes policy that the federal 

government should cooperate with states 

and their political subdivisions, soil or water 

conservation districts, flood prevention 

or control districts, and other local public 

agencies for the purposes of preventing 

erosion, floodwater, and sediment damages 

in the watersheds of the rivers and streams of 

the United States; furthering the conservation, 

development, utilization, and disposal of water, 

and the conservation and utilization of land; and 

thereby preserving, protecting, and improving 

the Nation’s land and water resources and the 

quality of the environment. 

Weeks Act Status for Certain Lands Act of 

September 2, 1958 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/521a.html

 Subjects all lands of the United States 

within the exterior boundaries of national 

forests which were or hereafter are acquired 

for or in connection with the national forests 

or transferred to the Forest Service for 

administration and protection substantially in 

A-16 

accordance with national forest regulations, 

policies, and procedures, excepting (a) lands 

reserved from the public domain or acquired 

pursuant to laws authorizing the exchange of 

land or timber reserved from or part of the 

public domain, and (b) lands within the official 

limits of towns or cities, notwithstanding the 

provisions of any other Act, to the provisions 

of the Weeks Act of March 1, 1911 (36 Stat. 

961), as amended, and to all laws, rules, and 

regulations applicable to national forest lands 

acquired thereunder. 

Weeks Act of March 1, 1911 

http://www.house.gove/resources/ 

105cong/reports/105_a/weeks_.pdf 

Authorizes the Secretary of Agriculture to 

purchase lands within the watersheds of 

navigable streams in order to promote regulation 

of the flow of navigable streams or for the 

production of timber, provided the legislature of 

the state in which the lands are located consents 

to the acquisition. This law is the primary land 

acquisition authority for the Forest Service. 

Wild Horse Protection Act of September 8, 

1959 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

18/47.html

 Established the use of a motor vehicle to 

hunt, for the purpose of capturing or killing, 

any wild horse, mare, colt, or burro running 

at large on the public lands. Also prohibits the 

pollution of watering holes on public lands for 

the purposes of trapping, killing, wounding, or 

maiming any of these animals. 

Wild Horses and Burros Act of December 15, 

1971 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/1331.html

 Protects wild free-roaming horses and burros 

from capture, branding, harassment, or death; 

and states they are to be considered in the area 

where presently found an integral part of the 

natural system of the public lands. 

Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of October 2, 

1968 
http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/1271.html

 Instituted a National Wild and Scenic Rivers 

System by designating the initial components 

of that system, and by prescribing the methods 

by which and standards according to which 

additional components may be added to the 

system from time to time. 

Wilderness Act of September 3, 1964 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ 

16/1131.html

 Established a National Wilderness 

Preservation System to be composed of 

federally owned areas designated by Congress as 

‘’wilderness areas’’ and administered for the use 

and enjoyment of the American people in such 

manner as will leave them unimpaired for future 

use and enjoyment as Wilderness. Provides for 

the protection of these areas, the preservation of 

their wilderness character, and for the gathering 

and dissemination of information regarding their 

use and enjoyment as wilderness. States that no 

federal lands shall be designated as ‘’wilderness 

areas’’ except as provided for in the Act or by a 

subsequent Act. 

Wilderness Act of 1975 (Public Law 93-622; 

93rd Congress, S 3433), January 3, 1975

 Designated several Wilderness areas nationwide, including Joyce Kilmer-Slickrock 

Wilderness (15,000 acres) in Nantahala 

and Cherokee National Forests and Gee 

Creek Wilderness (2,570 acres) in Cherokee 

National Forest; designated several wilderness 

study areas nation-wide, including Big Frog 

Wilderness Study Area (4,500 acres) and Citico 

Creek Area (14,000 acres) of the Joyce KilmerSlickrock Wilderness; provided direction for 

management of wilderness study areas. 

Wildlife Game Refuges Act of August 11, 1916 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ 

ts_search.pl?title=16&sec=683 

Authorizes the President of the United States 

to set aside lands for the protection of game 

animals, birds, or fish; and prohibits the hunting, 

catching, trapping, willful disturbance, or killing 

of any kind of game animal, game or non-game 

bird, or fish, or the taking of eggs of any such 

bird on any lands so set aside or in or on the 

waters thereof. 

Wood Residue Utilization Act December 19, 

1980 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/ 

casecode/uscodes/16/chapters/36/ 

subchapters/iv/toc.html

 Enacted to develop, demonstrate, and make 

available information on feasible methods that 

have the potential for commercial application to 

increase and improve utilization in residential, 

commercial, and industrial or power plant 

applications of wood residues resulting from 

timber harvesting and forest protection and 

management activities occurring on public and 

private forest lands, and from the manufacture 

of forest products, including wood pulp. 

Woodsy Owl/Smokey Bear Act of June 22, 

1974 

http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/ 

casecode/uscodes/18/parts/i/ 

chapters/33/sections/section_ 

711a.html

 Prohibits the unauthorized manufacture, 

reproduction, or use of the character “Woodsy 

Owl,” the name “Woodsy Owl,” or the 

associated slogan ‘’Give a Hoot, Don’t Pollute.’’ 

Also prohibits the unauthorized manufacture, 

reproduction, or use of the character “Smokey 

Bear” or the name “Smokey Bear,” or a 

facsimile or simulation of such character or 

name. 

Youth Conservation Corps Act of August 13, 

1970 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode 

16/1701.html

 Establishes a Youth Conservation Corps 

whom the Secretaries of the Interior or 

Agriculture may employ without regard to 

A-17 
the civil service or classification laws, rules, 

or regulations for the purpose of developing, 

preserving, or maintaining the lands and waters 

of the United States. 

Regulations 

33 CFR 323 Permits for Discharges of 

Dredged or Fill Material into Waters of the 

United States 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

33p323.htm#33p323s 

This regulation prescribes those special 

policies, practices and procedures to be followed 

by the Corps of Engineers in connection with the 

review of applications for permits to authorize 

the discharge of dredged or fill material into 

waters of the United States. 

36 CFR 60 National Register of Historic 

Places 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p60.htm#start

 Sets forth the procedural requirements for 

listing properties on the National Register. 

36 CFR 63 Determinations of Eligibility for 

Inclusion in the National Register of Historic 

Places 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p63.htm#start

 Developed to assist agencies in identifying 

and evaluating the eligibility of properties for 

inclusion in the National Register, and to explain 

how to request determinations of eligibility. 

36 CFR 65 National Historic Landmarks 

Program 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p65.htm#start

 Sets forth the criteria for establishing national 

significance and the procedures used by the 

Department of the Interior for conducting the 

National Historic Landmarks Program. 

36 CFR 68 The Secretary of the Interior’s 

Standards for Historic Preservation Projects 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p68.htm#start

 Sets forth standards for the treatment 

of historic properties containing standards 

for preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, 

and reconstruction. These standards apply 

to all proposed grant-in-aid development 

projects assisted through the National Historic 

Preservation Fund. 

36 CFR 212 Forest Development 

Transportation System 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p212.htm#start

 Sets forth the requirements for the 

development and administration of the forest 

development transportation system. 

36 CFR 213 Administration Under BankJones Act 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p213.htm#start

 Sets forth the requirements relating to the 

designation, administration, and development of 

National Grasslands. 

36 CFR 219 Planning 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p219.htm#start

 Sets forth a process for developing, adopting, 

and revising land and resource management 

plans for the National Forest System. 

36 CFR 221 Timber Management Planning 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p221.htm#start

 Sets forth the requirements for management 

plans for National Forest timber resources. 

36 CFR 222 Range Management 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p222.htm#start

 Sets forth the requirements for range 

management on the National Forests, and for the 

administration of wild and free-roaming horses 

and burros and their environment. 

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36 CFR 223 Sale and Disposal of National 

Forest System Timber 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p223.htm#start

 Sets forth the requirements relating to the 

sale and disposal of National Forest System 

timber. 

36 CFR 228 Minerals 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p228.htm#start

 Sets forth the rules and procedures through 

which use of the surface of National Forest 

System lands, in connection with mining and 

mineral operations, shall be conducted so as to 

minimize adverse environmental impacts on 

National Forest System surface resources. 

36 CFR 241 Fish and Wildlife 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p241.htm#start

 Sets forth the rules and procedures relating to 

the management, conservation, and protection 

of fish and wildlife resources on National Forest 

System lands. 

36 CFR 251 Land Uses 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p251.htm#start

 Sets forth the rules and procedures relating 

to the use and occupancy of National Forest 

System lands. 

36 CFR 254 Landownership Adjustments 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p254.htm#start 

Sets forth the rules and procedures relating to 

exchange and conveyance of National Forest 

System lands. 

36 CFR 261 Prohibitions 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p261.htm#start

 Sets forth the general prohibitions relating 

to the use and occupancy of National Forest 

System lands. 

36 CFR 291 Occupancy and Use of Developed 

Sites and Areas of Concentrated Public Use 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p291.htm#start

 Provides for fees charged for the occupancy 

and use of developed sites and areas of 

concentrated public use. 

36 CFR 292 National Recreation Areas 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p292.htm#start

 Sets forth the requirements for the 

administration of National Recreation Areas. 

36 CFR 293 Wilderness-Primitive Areas 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p293.htm#start

 Sets forth the requirements for the 

administration of Wilderness and primitive 

areas. 

36 CFR 294 Special Areas 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p294.htm#start

 Sets forth the requirements for designation of 

special recreation areas. 

36 CFR 295 Use of Motor Vehicles Off Forest 

Development Road 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p295.htm#start

 Sets forth the rules and procedures relating 

to the administrative designation and location 

of specific areas and trails of National Forest 

System lands on which the use of motor vehicles 

traveling off of National Forest development 

roads is allowed. 

36 CFR 296 Protection of Archaeological 

Resources 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p296.htm#start

 Implements the provisions of the 

Archaeological Resources Protection Act. 

36 CFR 297 Wild and Scenic Rivers 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p297.htm#start 

A-19
 Sets forth the rules and procedures relating 

to federal assistance in the construction of water 

resources projects affecting Wild and Scenic 

Rivers or study rivers on lands administered by 

the Secretary of Agriculture. 

36 CFR 800 Protection of Historic Properties 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

36p800.htm#start

 Sets forth the provisions for the 

administration of the National Historic 

Preservation Act. 

40 CFR 121-135 Water Programs 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

40p121.htm#40p121s

 Sets forth the provisions for the 

administration of water programs including: 

State certification of activities requiring a 

federal license or permit; EPA administered 

permit programs; State program requirements; 

procedures for decision making; criteria 

and standards for the National Pollutant 

Discharge Elimination System; toxic pollutant 

effluent standards; water quality planning and 

management; water quality standards; water 

quality guidance for the Great Lakes System; 

secondary treatment regulation; and, prior 

notice of citizen suits. Title 40 (Protection 

of Environment), Chapter 1 (Environmental 

Protection Agency), subchapter D (Water 

Programs). 

40 CFR 1500 Council on Environmental 

Quality 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

40p1500.htm#start

 Council on Environmental Quality 

regulations implementing the National 

Environmental Policy Act. 

43 CFR 10 Native American Graves 

Protection and Repatriation Act Regulations 

http://www4.law.cornell.edu/cfr/ 

43p10.htm#43p10s 

Implements the provisions of the Native 

American Graves Protection and Repatriation 

Act of 1990. 

Executive Orders 

EO 12898 Federal Actions To Address 

Environmental Justice in Minority 

Populations and Low-Income Populations 

http://www.fs.fed.us/land/

envjust.html

Addresses Environmental Justice in minority 

and low-income populations and is designed to 

focus Federal attention on the environmental 

and human health conditions in minority 

communities and low-income communities with 

the goal of achieving environmental justice. 

The order is also intended to promote nondiscrimination in Federal programs substantially 

affecting human health and the environment, 

and to provide minority communities and 

low-income communities access to public 

information on, and an opportunity for public 

participation in, matters relating to human health 

or the environment. 

EO 11593 Protection and Enhancement of 

Cultural Environment 

http://archnet.asu.edu/archnet/ 

topical/crm/usdocs/execord.htm

 States that the federal government shall 

provide leadership in preserving, restoring 

and maintaining the historic and cultural 

environment of the Nation, and that federal 

agencies shall administer the cultural properties 

under their control in a spirit of stewardship 

and trusteeship for future generations; initiate 

measures necessary to direct their policies, 

plans and programs in such a way that federally 

owned sites, structures, and objects of historical, 

architectural or archaeological significance 

are preserved, restored and maintained for 

the inspiration and benefit of the people; and, 

in consultation with the Advisory Council on 

Historic Preservation, institute procedures 

to assure that federal plans and programs 

contribute to the preservation and enhancement 

A-20
of non-federally owned sites, structures 

and objects of historical, architectural or 

archaeological significance. 

EO 11990 Protection of Wetlands 

http://hydra.gsa.gov/pbs/pt/call-in/ 

eo11990.htm

 Requires each federal agency to provide 

leadership and to take action to minimize the 

destruction, loss or degradation of wetlands, 

and to preserve and enhance the natural and 

beneficial values of wetlands in carrying out 

the agency’s responsibilities for acquiring, 

managing, and disposing of federal lands and 

facilities; providing federally undertaken, 

financed, or assisted construction and 

improvements; and conducting federal activities 

and programs affecting land use, including but 

not limited to water and related land resources 

planning, regulating, and licensing activities. 

EO 11644 (amended by EO 11989) Use of 

Off-Road Vehicles 

http://www.nara.gov/fedreg/codific/ 

eos/e11644.html

 Establishes policies and provides for 

procedures that ensure that the use of off-road 

vehicles on public lands will be controlled and 

directed so as to protect the resources of those 

lands, to promote the safety of all users of those 

lands, and to minimize conflicts among the 

various uses of those lands. 

EO 11988 Floodplain Management 

http://hydra.gsa.gov/pbs/pt/call-in/ 

eo11988.htm

 Requires each federal agency to provide 

leadership and to take action to reduce the risk 

of flood loss, to minimize the impact of floods 

on human safety, health and welfare, and to 

restore and preserve the natural and beneficial 

values served by floodplains in carrying out 

its responsibilities for acquiring, managing, 

and disposing of federal lands and facilities; 

providing federally undertaken, financed, or 

assisted construction and improvements; and 

conducting federal activities and programs 

affecting land use, including but not limited 

to water and related land resources planning, 

regulating, and licensing activities. 

EO 12088 Federal Compliance with Pollution 

Control Standards (Amended by E.O. 12580, 

January 23, 1987) 

http://hydra.gasa.gov/pbs/pt/call-in/ 

eo12088.htm

 Delegates responsibility to the head of 

each executive agency for ensuring that all 

necessary actions are taken for the prevention, 

control, and abatement of environmental 

pollution. This order gives the Environmental 

Protection Agency authority to conduct reviews 

and inspections to monitor Federal facility 

compliance with pollution control standards. 

EO 12372 Intergovernmental Review of 

Federal Programs 

http://www.nara.gov/fedreg/codific/ 

eos/e12372.html

 Issued to foster an intergovernmental 

partnership and a strengthened federalism 

by relying on State and local government 

coordination and review of proposed Federal 

financial assistance and direct federal 

development. It requires federal agencies to 

provide opportunities for consultation by elected 

officials of those State and local governments 

that would provide the non-federal funds 

for, or that would be directly affected by, 

proposed federal financial assistance or direct 

federal development. It also allows states to 

develop their own process or refine existing 

processes for state and local elected officials 

to use in reviewing and coordinating proposed 

federal financial assistance and direct federal 

development. 

EO 12862 Setting Customer Service 

Standards 

http://www.usbr.gov/laws/

eo12862.html

http://govinfo.library.unt.edu/npr/ 

library/direct/orders/2222.html 

A-21
 Requires all executive departments and 

agencies that provide significant services 

directly to the public to provide those services in 

a manner that seeks to meet the customer service 

standard established in the Order, and requires 

agencies to identify customers, survey customers 

and front-line employees to determine the kind 

and quality of services needed and barriers to 

those services, benchmark customer service 

performance against the best in the business, 

make information, services, and complaint 

systems easily accessible, and provide a means 

to address customer complaints. 

EO 13007 Indian Sacred Sites 

http://hydra.gsa.gov/pbs/pt/call-in/ 

eo13007.htm

 Requires each executive branch agency with 

statutory or administrative responsibility for 

the management of federal lands, to the extent 

practicable, permitted by law, and not clearly 

inconsistent with essential agency functions, 

to accommodate access to and ceremonial 

use of Indian sacred sites by Indian religious 

practitioners and to avoid adversely affecting 

the physical integrity of such sacred sites. 

Where appropriate, agencies shall maintain the 

confidentiality of sacred sites. 

Agreements and Memorandums 

of Understanding 

Memorandum of Understanding; United 

States Department of Transportation, Federal 

Highway Administration and USDA, Forest 

Service. dated 8/20/98 

Minerals 

Legal and Administrative Framework

 Statutory and regulatory direction separates 

mineral resources in the publicly owned lands of 

the United States into three categories: locatable, 

leasable and salable. Statutes, regulations and 

Executive Orders guide Forest Service policy 

governing the exploration and development of 

mineral activities on National Forest System 

lands. Management direction for mineral 

resources on the Sumter National Forest can be 

found in the following areas: 

36 CFR 228, Subpart A (Locatable Minerals), 

Subpart C (Salable Minerals), and Subpart E 

(Leasable Minerals). 

U.S. Mining Laws Act of May 10, 1872— 

applies to all mineral deposits in national forest 

lands reserved from the public domain, or which 

were acquired by exchange under the Act of 

March 20, 1922, and National Grasslands, or 

other Title III lands transferred from the public 

domain, except for oil, gas, oil shale, coal 

and other “leasing act” minerals, and mineral 

materials, including, but not limited to, sand 

and gravel. Mining laws do not apply to lands 

situated in Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin, 

Alabama, Missouri, and Kansas; and certain 

lands in Oklahoma. Generally declared that all 

valuable locatable mineral deposits and public 

domain lands where they are found are free and 

open to exploration, occupation, and purchase 

under regulations prescribed by law. 

Mineral Resources on Weeks Law Lands 

Act of March 4, 1917—Authorizes the 

Secretary of Agriculture to permit the 

prospecting, development, and utilization of 

mineral resources on lands acquired under the 

Weeks Act of 1911 (subject to section 402 of 

Reorganization Plan No. 3, of July 16, 1946 

that transferred the function to the Secretary of 

Interior. The Functions Transfer Act of June 

11, 1960 transferred the function back to the 

Secretary of Agriculture with respect to mineral 

materials only (sand and gravel). 

Mineral Leasing Act of February 25,1920 

—Provides for leasing of energy minerals (coal, 

oil, gas, oil shale), sodium, phosphate, and 

A-22
potassium on all lands owned by the United 

States, except for those acquired under the 

Weeks Act of March 1, 1911. The Bureau 

of Land Management (BLM) is the federal 

government’s leasing agency. 

Minerals Materials Act of July 31, 1947 

—Authorizes the disposal of mineral and 

vegetative materials through a sales system 

on public lands of the United States. The law 

also provides for free use of these materials 

by federal or state agencies, municipalities, or 

nonprofit associations, if not for commercial, 

industrial, or resale purposes. 

Mineral Leasing Act for Acquired Lands of 

August 7, 1947—Extends the provisions of the 

mineral leasing system to all acquired federal 

minerals, including those within the National 

Forests, unless excepted by the Act. It requires 

the consent of the Secretary of Agriculture prior 

to the BLM issuing a lease covering acquired 

lands administered by the Forest Service. 

Multiple Use Mining Act of 1955, Act of July 

23, 1955 (Public Law 84-167)—Amended 

sections 1 and 2 of the Materials Act of 1947. 

This legislation defined “common varieties” of 

mineral materials, and distinguished them from 

rare varieties, that may be locatable in certain 

states under the Mining Laws of 1872. 

Mineral Leasing Act Revision of 1960— 

Established a system of leasing public lands 

through either a competitive bidding process, 

utilized when BLM determined the lands to be 

within a known geological structure (KGS); 

or by one of two non-competitive leasing 

processes, an “over-the-counter” application 

process for non-KGS lands that had never been 

leased before; and a simultaneous lottery type 

system (SIMO) for non-KGS lands that had 

been previously leased. 

Multiple-Use Sustained-Yield Act of 1960— 

The Act established the multiple use principles 

on which the National Forest Management 

Act of 1976 is based. The Multiple-Use 

Sustained-Yield Act specifically addresses 

the role of minerals in the management of the 

National Forests. The Act states, “Nothing 

herein shall be construed so as to affect the use 

or administration of the mineral resources of 

national forest system lands ...” 

Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of October 2, 

1968 —Under the Act, the minerals in federal 

lands which are part of the system and constitute 

the bed or bank, or are situated within onequarter mile of the bank of any river segment 

which is designated a wild river under this Act, 

are withdrawn from all forms of appropriation 

under the mining laws and from operation of 

the mineral leasing laws. This restriction does 

not apply to those segments of a Wild and 

Scenic River that are designated as “scenic” or 

“recreational.” 

Mining and Minerals Policy Act of 1970— 

Establishes a national minerals policy, and states 

in part: “The Congress declares that it is the 

continuing policy of the Federal Government 

in the national interest to foster and encourage 

private enterprise in (1) the development 

of economically sound and stable domestic 

mining, minerals, metal and mineral reclamation 

industries; and 2) the orderly and economic 

development of domestic mineral resources, 

reserves, and reclamation of metals and minerals 

to help assure satisfaction of industrial, security 

and environmental needs.” 

Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 

1976 —Public lands and their resources will be 

periodically and systematically inventoried, and 

their present and future use projected through 

a land use planning process. Also requires 

that the “public lands be managed in a manner 

which recognizes the Nation’s need for domestic 

sources of minerals, food, timber and fiber from 

public lands, including implementation of the 

Mining and Minerals Policy Act of 1970.” 

A-23
Surface Mining Control and Reclamation 

Act of 1977—Prohibits surface (strip) mining of 

coal on federally administered lands located east 

of the 100th Meridian. 

Energy Security Act of June 30, 1980— 

Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to process 

applications for leases and permits to explore, 

drill and develop resources on National Forest 

System lands, notwithstanding the current status 

of the Land and Resource Management Plan 

(Forest Plan). 

Federal Onshore Oil and Gas Leasing 

Reform Act of 1987—Provides additional 

authority for the Forest Service in regard to 

leasing and administration of surface operations 

during oil and gas development. The BLM may 

not issue any lease on National Forest public 

domain lands over the objection of the Secretary 

of Agriculture. Forest Service must approve and 

administer all surface disturbing activities on 

leases issued on National Forest lands. The Act 

repealed the Known Geologic Structures (KGS) 

process and the Simultaneous leasing system 

(SIMO). The Act established a 2-level leasing 

process: 1) all tracts are offered competitively to 

the highest bidder, with a minimum bonus bid of 

not less than $2/acre, in addition to the annual 

rental; and 2) tracts offered for competitive sale 

which receive no bids, and for which no pre-sale 

applications were received, are then available 

non-competitively (“over-the-counter”) for 

2 years after the sale. The competitive lease 

sale notices must be posted in the appropriate 

FS office for 45 days prior to the competitive 

lease sale. Prior to approval of applications for 

permits to drill (APD’s) or lease modifications, 

a notice must be posted for 30 days prior 

approval. 

Executive Order 13212 (Actions to Expedite 

Energy-related Projects) of May 18, 2001 

—Executive departments and agencies shall 

take appropriate actions, to the extent consistent 

with applicable law, to expedite projects that 

will increase the production, transmission, or 

conservation of energy. For energy-related 

projects, agencies shall expedite their review 

of permits or take other actions as necessary 

to accelerate the completion of such projects, 

while maintaining safety, public health, and 

environment protections. 

Onshore Oil and Gas Order #1—States the 

necessary requirements for the approval of all 

proposed exploratory, development, and service 

wells. The Order requires the lessee/operator 

to submit a Surface Use Plan of Operation 

and a Drilling Plan as part of the Application 

for Permit to Drill (APD). Both the Forest 

Service and the BLM must approve the APD 

prior to drilling operations commencing on NF 

lands. The Forest Service adopted the section 

of BLM’s Onshore Oil and Gas Order #1 that 

dealt with Surface Use Plans of Operation, and 

incorporated it as Appendix A of 36 CFR 228E. 

Forest Service Regulations at 36 CFR 

219.22— Requires that outstanding and reserved 

mineral rights (private mineral rights under 

NFS surface) shall be recognized to the extent 

practicable in forest planning. 

Forest Service Regulations at 36 CFR 219.22 

(f)—Specifically addresses minerals in Forest 

plans: 

The following shall be recognized to the 

extent practicable in forest planning: (f) 

the probable effect of renewable resource 

prescriptions and management direction on 

mineral resources and activities, including 

exploration and development. 

Lands Statutorily Withdrawn from Mineral 

Entry or Mineral Leasing 

1. Subject to valid existing rights then 

existing effective January 1, 1984, the minerals 

in lands designated under the Wilderness Act 

of September 3, 1964, are withdrawn from all 

forms of appropriation under the mining laws 

A-24 
and from disposition under all laws pertaining 

to mineral leasing. The SumterNational Forest 

has one congressionally designated wilderness, 

Ellicott Rock, 2,855 acres, which is statutorily 

withdrawn from mineral entry or leasing. 

2. Subject to valid existing rights, the 

minerals in federal lands, which constitute the 

bed or bank, or are situated within 1⁄4 mile of 

the bank of any river designated a “Wild River” 

under this Act, are withdrawn from all forms of 

appropriation under the mining laws and from 

operation of the mineral leasing laws. 

On the Sumter National Forest, there is one 

W&SR river. the Chattooga. See prescription 

2.a.1. in chapter 3 for detailed information. 

 Note: This restriction does not apply to 

those segments of a Wild and Scenic River that 

are designated as “scenic” or “recreational.” 

Elsewhere, the W&SR sections of the FEIS 

and Forest Plan should list the Wild & Scenic 

Rivers, their classification, the miles of river 

in each category, how many acres fall within 

1⁄4 mile of any wild segments, and the acreage 

within the various river category management 

area corridors. If the width of the management 

corridor for the wild segment of the river 

exceeds the 1⁄4 mile area statutorily withdrawn, 

then a standard should be established for those 

acres outside the 1⁄4 mile, but within the corridor 

(possibly leasing with no surface occupancy). 

For the corridor areas, which are managed as 

scenic or recreational, a controlled surface use 

stipulation could be adopted which precludes 

any long term surface disturbance which would 

alter the esthetics of the area which qualified it 

for inclusion in the W&SR system. By using 

this stipulation, short-term use, such as running 

a seismic line during the summer, could be 

authorized. 

A-25 
Appendix B 

Glossary 

land ownership adjustment 

strategy 

land and water conservation 

fund 

large woody debris 

million cubic feet 

National Environmental Policy 

Act 

National Forest Management 

Act 

non-industrial private forest 

no surface occupancy 

National Forest System 

off-highway vehicle 

proposed, endangered, 

threatened species 

Preference Right Lease 

Application 

road analysis process 

recreation opportunity 

spectrum 

right(s)-of-way 

Southern Appalachian 

Assessment 

South Carolina 

scenic integrity objectives 

smoke management programs 

scenery management system 

southern pine beetle 

total mean daily load 

United States Department of 

Agriculture 

wildland urban interface 

Acronyms LOAS 

AMS Analysis of the Management 

Situation LWCF 

ARPA Archaeological Resource 

Protection Act LWD 

ASQ allowable sale quantity MMCF 

AQRV air quality related values NEPA 

BA basal area 

BF board foot NFMA 

BLM Bureau of Land Management 

BMP best management practices NIPF 

NSO CAA Clean Air Act 

NFS CCF hundred cubic feet 

CEQ Council on Environmental OHV 

Quality PETS 

CF cubic foot 

PRLA CFL commercial forest land 

CFR Code of Federal Regulations RAP DBH diameter at breast height ROS 

DEIS Draft Environmental Impact 

Statement ROW 

DHEC Department of Health and SAA 

Environmental Control 

EIS Environmental Impact SC 

Statement SIO 

EPA Environmental Protection SMP

Agency SMS

FEIS Final Environmental Impact SPB Statement 

TMDL FSH Forest Service Handbook 

USDA FSM Forest Service Manuel 

FW Forest-wide WUI

FMP fire management plan 

GIS geographic information system 

HPP heritage preservation plans 

KBDI Kutch-Byrum Drought Index 

B-1 
Definitions 

Definitions were taken from the following 

sources:

 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 

36, Parks, Forests, and Public Property, 

Chapter II, Forest Service, Department of 

Agriculture; Part 219, Planning, Section A 

National Forest System Land and Resource 

Management Planning; Section 219.3, Definitions and Terminology, Revised July 1, 

1998. (Referred to as 36 CFR 219.3)

 Forest IDT is the Interdisciplinary Team 

on the Chattahoochee-Oconee NFs. (Referred to as Forest IDT) 

Society of American Foresters. 1998. The 

Dictionary of Forestry. Edited by John A. 

Helms. 210 p. (Referred to as SAF) 

Timber Staff is the Timber Staff on the 

Chattahoochee-Oconee NFs. (Referred to as 

Timber Staff)

 USDA Forest Service, Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Sumter 

National Forests Land and Resource Management Plan, Southern Region, Supervisor’s Office, Cikumbia, SC 2004. (Referred 

to as FEIS. 

Forest Service Handbook (FSH) 

2090.11, Ecological Classification and 

Inventory Handbook, WO Amendment 

2090.11-91-1, Effective 4/26/91, 05—Definitions. (Referred to as FSH 2090.11-05) 

 FSH 2409.13, Timber Resource Planning 

Handbook, WO Amendment 2409.13-92-1, 

Effective 8/3/92, 05—Definitions. (Referred 

to as FSH 2409.13-05)

 FSH 2409.15, Timber Sale Administration Handbook, Amendment No. 2409.15-

96-2, Effective Sept. 19, 1996, 05—Definitions. (Referred to as FSH 2409.15-05)

 FSH 2409.17, Silvicultural Practices 

Handbook, 1/85 WO, Chapter 9—Timber 

Stocking Guides and Growth Predictions, 

9.05—Definitions. (Referred to as FSH 

2409.17-9.05)

 FSH 2609.13, Wildlife and Fisheries 

Program Management Handbook, WO 

Amendment 2609.13-92-1, Effective 8/3/ 

92, Chapter 70—Analysis of Economic Efficiency of Wildlife and Fisheries Projects, 

70.5—Definitions. (Referred to as FSH 

2609.70.5)

 FSH 2709.12, Road Rights-of-Way 

Grants Handbook, 9/85 WO, Zero Code, 

05—Definitions. (Referred to as FSH 

2709.12-05)

 Forest Service Manual (FSM) 1900— 

Planning, Amendment No. 1900-91-3, Effective March 15, 1991, 1905—Definitions. 

(FSM 1905)

 FSM 2163, Hazardous Waste Management, Chapter 2163.05, Definitions. (Referred to as FSM 2163)

 FSM 2200, Range Management, WO 

Amendment 2200-91-1 Effective 3/1/91, 

Chapter 2230, Grazing and Livestock Use 

Permit System, 2230.5—Definitions. (Referred to as FSM 2230)

 FSM 2300, Recreation, Wilderness, and 

Related Resource Management, Amendment No. 2300-91-3 Effective March 12, 

1991. Chapter 2355, Off-Road Vehicle Use 

Management, Executive Order 116-44, as 

amended by Executive Order 11989, Use of 

Off-Road Vehicles on the Public Lands 37 

FR 2877 (Feb. 9, 1972), 42 FR 26959 (May 

25, 1977). (Referred to as FSM 2355)

 FSM 2300, Recreation, Wilderness, and 

Related Resource Management, WO AFSM 

2300—Recreation, Wilderness, and Related Resource Management, WO Amendment 2300-90-1, Effective 6/1/90, Chapter 

2310—Planning and Data Management— 

2312—Recreation Information Management (RIM). (Referred to as (FSM 2312)

 FSM 2400, Timber Management, WO 

Amendment 2400-96-6 Effective 9/24/96. 

Chapter 2435—Salvage Sales. 2435.05, 

Definitions. (FSM 2435)

 FSM 2500, Watershed and Air Management, Amendment No. 2500-94-4, Effective 

Dec. 20, 1994. Chapter 2520, Watershed 

Protection and Management. 2521—Watershed Condition Assessment. 2521.05—Definitions. (Referred to as FSM 2521) 

B-2 
 FSM 2500, Watershed and Air Management, Amendment No. 2500-94-4, Effective 

Dec. 20, 1994. Chapter 2520, Watershed 

Protection and Management. FSM 2526— 

Riparian Area Management. 2526.05—Definitions. (Referred to as FSM 2526)

 FSM 2600, Wildlife, Fish, and Sensitive 

Plant Habitat Management, Amendment 

No. 2600-91-8 Effective Oct. 22, 1991, 

Chapter 2605, Definitions. (Referred to as 

FSM 2605)

 FSM 2600,Wildlife, Fish, and Sensitive 

Plant Habitat Management, WO Amendment 2600-95-7, Effective 6/23/95, Chapter 

2670, Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Plants and Animals, 2670.5—Definitions. (Referred to as FSM 2670) 

A User’s Guide to Forest Information 

Retrieval (FIR), Southeastern Forest Experiment Station, Forest Inventory and Analysis Unit, Asheville, NC, 1988. (Referred to 

as FIR) Interim Resource Inventory Glossary, File 1900, Washington, DC, 96 p., June 

14, 1989. (Referred to IRIG) 

A

accessibility—The relative ease or difficulty 

of getting from or to someplace, especially the 

ability of a site, facility or opportunity to be 

used by persons of varying physical and mental 

abilities. 

acid deposition—Rain, snow, or particulate 

matter containing high concentrations of acid 

anions (e.g., nitrate and sulfacte), usually 

produced by atmospheric transformation of 

the byproducts of fossil fuel combustion. 

Precipitation with a pH lower than 5.0 is 

generally considered to be acidic. 

acid neutralizing capacity—The total capacity 

of a water supply to neutralize acids, as 

determined by titration with a strong acid. Acid 

neutralizing capacity includes alkalinity (e.g., 

carbonate) plus base cations. 

acidification —To convert into an acid or 

become acid. 

Agriculture Conservation Program— 

USDA cost-share program for steambank 

improvement. 

acquisition of land—Obtaining full 

landownership rights by donation, purchase, 

exchange, or condemnation. 

acre-equivalents—The number of acres 

of forest habitat improved or affected by 

the installation of various wildlife habitat 

improvements in an area. Determined by 

multiplying by various coefficients. 

acre-foot—A measurement of water volume, 

equal to the amount of water that would 

cover an area of 1 acre to a depth of 1 foot 

(specifically 43,560 cubic feet or 325,851 

gallons). 

B-3
activity—A measure, course of action, or 

treatment that is undertaken to directly or 

indirectly produce, enhance, or maintain forest 

and rangeland outputs or achieve administrative 

or environmental quality objectives. 

adaptive management —A dynamic approach 

to forest management in which the effects 

of treatments and decisions are continually 

monitored and used, along with research 

results, to modify management on a continuing 

basis to ensure objectives are being met. 

administrative unit —All the National Forest 

System lands where one forest supervisor 

has responsibility. The basic geographic 

management area within a Forest Service 

Region, station, or area. 

advance regeneration (reproduction)— 

Seedlings or saplings that develop, or are 

present, in the understory. 

aerial logging—A yarding system employing 

aerial means, (e.g., helicopters, balloons), to lift 

logs. 

afforestation—Establishment of a forest or 

stand in an area not recently forested. 

age class —A grouping of living things based 

on their age. 

age class (cohort) —A distinct aggregation 

of trees originating from a single natural 

disturbance or regeneration cutting. 

Age dependent relationships—Complex yield 

composite relationships between independent 

and dependent variables that vary by the age of 

the understory and/or the overstory. 

agricultural land —Areas used primarily for 

production of food and/or fiber (excludes wood 

fiber). Examples include cropland, pasture, 

orchards, vineyards, nurseries, confined feeding 

areas, farmsteads, and ranch headquarters. 

air pollution—Any substance or energy form 

(heat, light, noise, etc.) that alters the state of 

the air from what would naturally occur.] 

air quality class—Three broad classifications 

used to prevent significant deterioration of air 

quality for all areas of the country. 

Class I—All areas where essentially 

any degradation of air quality would be 

considered significant deterioration. 

Class II—All areas where moderate 

degradation over baseline concentrations 

are allowed. 

Class III—All others. 

all aged stand—A stand with trees of all, 

or almost all age classes, including those of 

exploitable age. 

allocated fund—Funds transferred from one 

agency or bureau to another for carrying out the 

purpose of the parent appropriation and agency. 

allocation—The assignment of management 

prescriptions or combination of management 

practices to a particular land area to achieve the 

goals and objectives of the alternative. 

allopatric —Condition where one species lives 

in a section of stream without other closely 

related species. The species have disjunct 

distributions. Opposite of sympatric. 

allotment management plan—The basic 

land unit used to facilitate management of the 

range resource on National Forest System and 

associated lands administered by the Forest 

Service. 

allowable sale quantity—The quantity of 

timber that may be sold from the area of 

suitable land covered by the Forest Plan for a 

time period specified by the Forest Plan. This 

quantity is usually expressed on an annual basis 

as the “average annual allowable sale quantity.” 

B-4 
all-terrain vehicle —Any motorized, offhighway vehicle 50 inches or less in width, 

having a dry weight of 600 pounds or less that 

travels straddled by the operator. Low-pressure 

tires are six inches or more in width and 

designed for use on wheel rim diameters of 12 

inches or less, utilizing an operating pressure 

of 10 pounds per square inch (psi) or less as 

recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. 

alternative—In forest planning, a mix of 

resource outputs designed to achieve a desired 

management emphasis as expressed in goals 

and objectives, and in response to public issues 

or management concerns. 

amendment —A formal alteration of the 

Forest Plan by modification, addition, or 

deletion. Forest Plan amendment requires an 

environmental analysis. Significant findings 

require an environmental impact statement and 

the amendment will follow the same procedure 

used for plan preparation. Insignificant findings 

allow the changes to be implemented following 

public notification. Amendments can take place 

at any time following plan approval. 

amenity values—Features or qualities which 

are pleasurable or aesthetic, as contrasted 

with the utilitarian features of a plan, project, 

location, or resource. 

analysis area—A collection of lands, not 

necessary contiguous, sufficiently similar in 

character, that they may be treated as if they 

were identical. 

analysis area identifier—A resource 

characteristic used to stratify the land into 

capability areas and analysis areas. 

Analysis of the Management Situation—A 

determination of the ability of the planning 

area to supply goods and services in response 

to society’s demand. The AMS is contained 

in a 35-page report available from the Forest 

Supervisor. The Forest Plan includes a 

summary of the AMS. Information from it is 

contained throughout the EIS/Plan. 

animal unit month—The quantity of forage 

required by one mature cow and her calf (or the 

equivalent, in sheep or horses), for one month; 

682 pounds of air-dry forage. 

annual forest program—The summary or 

aggregation of all projects that make up an 

integrated (multifunctional) course of action 

for a given level of funding of a forest planning 

area that is consistent with the Forest Plan. 

annual work planning process—Preparation 

of technical plans that serve to implement 

land and resource management, and program 

decisions contained in the integrated land, 

resource plans, and budget allocations. 

appropriated fund—Funds available for 

obligation or outlay by Congress to a given 

agency. 

appropriate management response—The 

response to a wildland fire based on an 

evaluation of risks to firefighter and public 

safety. Circumstances under which the fire 

occurs, including weather and fuel conditions, 

natural and cultural resource management 

objectives, protection priorities, and values to 

be protected. The evaluation must also include 

an analysis of the context of the specific fire 

within the overall logic, geographic area, or 

national wildland fire situation. 

aquatic ecosystem—Components that include: 

the stream channel, lake and estuary beds, 

water, biotic community, and associated habitat 

features. Also included are streams and lakes 

with intermittently, semipermanently, and 

seasonally flooded channels or streambeds. 

In the absence of flowing water, intermittent 

streams may have pools or surface water. 

aquatic habitat types—The classification 

of instream habitat based on location within 

B-5 
channel, patterns of water flow, and nature of 

flow controlling structures. Habitat is classified 

into a number of types according to location 

within the channel, patterns of water flow, and 

nature of flow controlling structure. Riffles are 

divided into three habitat types: low gradient 

riffles, rapids, and cascades. Pools are divided 

into seven types: secondary channel pools, 

backward pools, trench pools, plunge pools, 

lateral scour pools, dammed pools, and beaver 

ponds. Glides, the third habitat type, are 

intermediate in many characteristics between 

riffles and pools. It is recognized that as aquatic 

habitat types occur in various parts of the 

country, additional habitat types may have to 

be described. If necessary, the regional fishery 

biologist will describe and define the additional 

habitat types. 

arterial roads—Roads that provide service 

to large land areas and usually connect with 

public highways or other forest arterial roads 

to form an integrated network of primary travel 

routes. The location and standard are often 

determined by a demand for maximum mobility 

and travel efficiency rather than specific 

resource-management service. They are usually 

developed and operated for long-term land and 

resource management purposes and constant 

service. These roads generally serve areas more 

than 40,000 acres. 

artificial regeneration (reproduction)— 

Creation of a new age class by renewal of a tree 

crop by direct seeding, or by planting seedlings 

or cuttings. 

authorized use—Specific activity or 

occupancy, including a ski area, historical 

marker, or oil and gas lease, for which a special 

authorization is issued. 

B

background—The area after the middleground 

in a picture or landscape; generally over 4 miles 

distance from the viewer. 

bald—An early successional opening generally 

above 4,000 feet, characterized by grassy or 

heath vegetation. 

basal area—The area of the cross-section of 

a tree inclusive of bark at breast height (4.5 

feet or 1.37 meters above the ground) most 

commonly expressed as square feet per acre 

or square meters per hectare. Used to measure 

the density of a stand of trees. For shrubs 

and herbs it is used to determine phytomass. 

Grasses, forbs, and shrubs usually measured at 

or less then 1 inch above soil level. Trees—the 

cross-section area of a tree stem in square feet 

commonly measured at breast height (4.5’ 

above ground) and inclusive of bark, usually 

computed by using diameter at breast height 

(DBH), or tallied through the use of basal area 

factor angle gauge. 

basal spray—The application of a pesticide, 

usually a herbicide for controlling brush or 

weed trees, directed at the base of the stem. 

base sale schedule—A timber sale schedule 

formulated on the basis that the quantity of 

timber planned for sale and harvest for any 

future decade is equal to, or greater than, the 

planned sale and harvest for the preceding 

decade. The planned sale and harvest for any 

decade must not be greater than the long-term 

sustained yield capacity. 

best management practices (BMP)—A 

practice, or a combination of practices 

determined to be the most effective and 

practical means of preventing or reducing the 

amount of pollution generated by non-point 

sources to a level compatible with water quality 

goals. 

B-6 
biodiversity—The variety of life in an area, 

including the variety of gene pools, species, 

plant and animal communities, ecosystems, 

and the processes through which individual 

organisms interact with one another, and their 

environments. 

biological assessment—A “biological 

evaluation” conducted for major federal 

construction projects requiring an 

environmental impact statement, in accordance 

with legal requirements under Section 7 of the 

Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1536(c)). 

The purpose of the assessment and resulting 

document is to determine whether the proposed 

action is likely to affect an endangered, 

threatened, or proposed species. 

biological evaluation —A documented Forest 

Service review of its programs or activities in 

sufficient detail to determine how an action 

or proposed action may affect any proposed, 

endangered, threatened, or sensitive species. 

biological growth potential—The average net 

growth attainable on a fully-stocked natural 

forest land. 

biological oxygen demand —Dissolved 

oxygen required by organisms for the aerobic 

biochemical decomposition of organic matter 

present in water. 

bladed skid road—A travel way through the 

woods formed by loggers to facilitate dragging 

(skidding) logs from the stump to a log landing. 

Skid roads are generally used in steep terrain 

and are cut into mountainsides with a bulldozer. 

board foot—A unit of timber measurement 

equaling the amount of wood contained in an 

unfinished board 1 inch thick, 12 inches long, 

and 12 inches wide. Commonly, 1,000 board 

feet is written as 1 MBF, and 1,000,000 board 

feet is written as 1MMBF. 

browse—Young twigs, leaves and tender 

shoots of plants, shrubs or trees that animals 

eat. 

burning (prescribed)—The application of 

fire, usually under existing stands and under 

specified conditions of weather and fuel 

moisture, in order to attain silvicultural or other 

management objectives. 

C

cable logging—A term for any system 

involving transport of logs along, or by means 

of steel cables with the load being lifted partly 

or wholly off the ground. 

canopy cover—The percent of a fixed area 

covered by the crown of an individual plant 

species or delimited by the vertical projection 

of its outermost perimeter. Small openings 

in the crown are included. Used to express 

the relative importance of individual species 

within a vegetation community, or to express 

the canopy cover of woody species. Canopy 

cover may be used as a measure of land cover 

change or trend. Often used for wildlife habitat 

evaluations. 

capability—The potential of a land area to 

produce resources, supply goods and services, 

and allow resource uses under an assumed set 

of management practices and a given level of 

management intensity. Note: capability depends 

upon the current condition and site conditions 

including climate, slope, land form, soil and 

geology, and the application of management 

practices and protection from fire, insects, and 

disease. 

B-7 
carrying capacity—The number of organisms 

of a given species and quality that can 

survive in, without causing deterioration of, a 

given ecosystem through the least favorable 

environmental conditions that occur within a 

stated interval of time. 

channel ephemeral streams—Ephemeral 

streams that have a defined channel of flow 

where surface water converges with enough 

energy to remove soil, organic matter, and 

leaf litter. Ones that exhibit an ordinary high 

watermark and show signs of annual scour or 

sediment transport are considered navigable 

waters of the United States (USACE, Part 330-

Nationwide Permit program, 2000). 

channelization—Artificial change of a stream 

channel profile. 

Class A, B, C, and D Chemicals—The 

Vegetation Management EISs (VMEIS) for 

both the Coastal Plain/Piedmont and for the 

Appalachian Mountains classified combinations 

of herbicides/application methods as Class 

A, B, C or D. Each VMEIS classifies these 

combinations of herbicides and appliecation 

methods as follows: 

Class A—Do not pose risk which would 

require mitigation in addition to those stated 

in chapter II (section E.2.c.) in the VMEIS. 

Class B—Pose human or wildlife health 

risk which requires additional mitigation, 

OR have soil-active half-lives (appendix 

A, table 4-9 in the VMEIS) exceeding 6 

months. 

Class C—Pose human or wildlife health 

risk which requires additional mitigation, 

AND have soil-active half-lives (appendix 

A, table 4-9 in the VMEIS) exceeding 6 

months. 

Class D—Pose a risk to human or wildlife 

health or to the environment which cannot 

be mitigated to an acceptable level of risk. 

Clean Air Act of 1970—A congressional 

act, along with the amendments passed in 

1977 and 1990, that provides authority for the 

Environmental Protection Agency to develop 

specific regulations controlling air pollution. 

cleaning—A release treatment made in an age 

class, not past the sapling stage, in order to free 

the favored trees from less desirable individuals 

of the same age class which can overtop them. 

clearcutting—The harvesting in one cut of 

all trees on an area for the purpose of creating 

a new, even-aged stand. The area harvested 

may be a patch, stand, or strip large enough 

to be mapped or recorded as a separate age 

class in planning for sustained yield under 

area regulation. A method of regenerating an 

even-aged stand. Regeneration is from natural 

seeding, direct seeding, planted seedlings, 

and/or advance reproduction. Harvesting may 

be done in groups or patches (group or patch 

clearcutting), or in strips (strip clearcutting). In 

the clearcutting system, the management unit or 

stand in which regeneration, growth, and yield 

are regulated consists of the individual clearcut 

stand. 

clearcutting with reserves—A two-aged 

regeneration method in which varying numbers 

of reserve trees are not harvested to attain goals 

other than regeneration. 

climax—The culminating stage in plant 

succession for a given environment with the 

vegetation having reached a highly stable 

condition. 

co-dominant trees—Trees or shrubs with 

crowns receiving full light from above, but 

comparatively little from the sides. Crowns 

usually form the general level of the canopy. 

cohort— a group of trees developing after a 

single disturbance, commonly consisting of 

trees of similar age, although it can include 

a considerable range of tree ages of seeding 

or sprout origin and threes that predate the 

disturbance. 

B-8 
cold water fishery—Aquatic habitats that 

predominately support fish species that have 

temperature tolerances up to about 70OF, and 

exhibit their greatest reproductive success at 

temperatures below 65OF (18.3OC). 

collector road—Roads that serve smaller land 

areas and are usually connected to a forest 

arterial or public highway. They collect traffic 

from forest local roads or terminal facilities. 

The location and standard are influenced 

by long-term multi-resource service needs, 

and travel efficiency. Forest collector roads 

may be operated for constant or intermittent 

service, depending on land-use and resource 

management objectives for the area served by 

the facility. These roads generally have two 

or more local roads feeding into them and 

generally serve an area exceeding 10,000 acres. 

commercial forest land—Forest land that can 

produce crops of industrial wood, and has not 

been withdrawn by Congress, the Secretary of 

Agriculture, or the Chief of the Forest Service. 

Existing technology and knowledge must be 

available to ensure timber production without 

irreversible damage to soils productivity, or 

watershed conditions. Adequate restocking 

can be attained within five years after final 

harvesting. 

commercial thinning—Any type of thinning 

producing merchantable material at least equal 

to the value of the direct cost of harvesting. 

commercial tree species—(1) Tree species 

suitable for industrial wood produces. (2) 

Conifer and hardwood species used to calculate 

the commercial forest land allowable sale 

quality. 

commodity outputs—A resource output with 

commercial value. All resource products that 

are articles of commerce. 

compartment—A portion of a forest under one 

ownership, usually contiguous and composed 

of a variety of forest stand types, defined for 

purposes of locational reference. 

composition (stand)—The proportion of each 

tree species in a stand expressed as a percentage 

of the total number, basal area, or volume of all 

tree species in the stand. 

constraint—A restriction or limit that must be 

met. 

Continuous Inventory of Stand Condition 

(CISC)—A system that continuously reflects an 

up-to-date description of timber stands. It tells 

what and when actions are planned for stands 

and gives some information about actions that 

have taken place. It is also the name of the data 

base management computer system used for the 

storage and retrieval of data. 

conventional logging—A term used to identify 

methods commonly used in an area to move 

logs from stump to mill. 

conversion (forest management)—A change 

from one forest type to another in a stand on 

land that has the capability of both forest types. 

coppice —A method of regenerating a stand 

in which all trees in the previous stand are 

harvested and the majority of regeneration is 

from stump sprouts or root suckers. 

coppice with reserve—A two-aged 

regeneration method in which reserve trees are 

retained to goals other than regeneration. This 

method normally creates a two-aged stand. 

cord —A unit of gross volume measurement 

for stacked, round wood based on external 

dimensions, generally implies a stack of 4 x 

4 feet vertical cross section and 8 feet long. 

Contains 128 stacked cubic feet. 

corridor —A linear strip of land identified for 

the present or future location of transportation 

or utility rights-of-way within its boundaries. 

B-9 
It can also be identified for wildlife habitat 

connecting, or protecting forest resources. 

Council on Environmental Quality—An 

advisory council to the president established by 

the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. 

It reviews federal programs for their effect 

on the environment, conducts environmental 

studies, and advises the president on 

environmental matters. 

creel survey—A survey of anglers. 

critical habitat—Habitat, determined by 

the Secretary of Interior, essential to the 

conservation of the endangered or threatened 

species. 

crown class—A class of tree based on crown 

position relative to the crowns of adjacent trees. 

dominant —Trees with crowns extending 

above the general level of the main canopy 

of even-aged groups of trees. They receive 

full light from above, and partly from the 

sides. 

co-dominant—Trees with crowns forming 

the general level of the main canopy in 

even-aged groups of trees. They receive full 

light from above, and comparatively little 

from the sides. 

intermediate—Trees with crowns 

extending into the lower portion of the main 

canopy of even-aged groups of trees, but 

shorter in height than the co-dominants. 

They receive little direct light from above, 

and none from the sides. 

overtopped (suppressed)—Trees of varying 

levels of vigor that have their crowns 

completely covered by the crowns of one or 

more neighboring trees. 

cubic foot—A unit of measure reflecting a 

piece of wood 12 inches long, 12 inches wide, 

and 12 inches thick. 

culmination of mean annual increment 

—Age at which average rate of annual tree 

growth stops increasing and begins to decline. 

Mean annual increment is expressed in cubic 

feet measure and is based on expected growth, 

according to the management intensities and 

utilization standards assumed in accordance 

with 36 CFR 219.16(a)(2)(i) and (ii). 

Culmination of mean annual increment includes 

regeneration harvest yields, and any additional 

yields from planned intermediate harvests. 

cultural resources—Physical remains of 

districts, sites, structures, buildings, networks 

or objects that were used by humans. They 

may be historic, prehistoric, archaeological 

or architectural or spiritual in nature. Cultural 

resources are non-renewable. 

cunit—Equivalent to 100 cubic feet of solid 

wood. Commonly, 100 cubic feet is expressed 

as 1 CCF. 

cut-offs—Analysis constraints that prevent the 

valuation of non-timber outputs produced in 

excess of demand plus x percent. It ensures that 

the assumptions of a horizontal demand curve 

are not violated. 

cutting cycle—The planned interval between 

partial harvest in a stand being managed with 

an uneven-aged regeneration method. 

D

daylighting —The practices of cutting back 

edges of roads or trails by removing shrub and 

tree growth. 

decision criteria—Rules or standards used to 

evaluate and rank alternatives. 

den trees—Trees having rainproof, weathertight cavities used by wildlife. 

B-10 
desired future condition—An expression of 

resource goals that have been set for a unit of 

land. It is written as a narrative description 

of the landscape as it will appear when the 

goals have been achieved. The condition 

also includes a description of physical and 

biological processes, the environmental setting, 

and the human experience. 

developed recreation—Recreation use or 

opportunities occurring at developed sites. 

developed recreation site—A discrete 

place containing a concentration of facilities 

and services used to provide recreation 

opportunities to the public and evidencing 

a significant investment in facilities and 

management under the direction of an 

administrative unit in the National Forest 

System. 

development level—An indication of site 

modification based on classes in the Recreation 

Opportunity Spectrum. Development Level 1 

equates to Primitive, with minimum site modification; 2 equates to Semi-Primitive Motorized/ 

Nonmotorized, with little site modification; 3 

equates to Roaded, with moderate modification; 

4 equates to Rural, with heavy site modification; and 5 relates to Urban, with a high degree 

of site modification. 

diameter at breast height—A tree’s diameter 

measured at about 4.5 feet (1.37m) above the 

forest floor on the uphill side of the tree. For 

the purposes of determining breast height, the 

forest floor includes the duff layer that may be 

present, but does not include unincorporated 

woody debris that may rise above the ground 

line. 

diameter class—Any of the intervals into 

which a range of diameters of tree stems may 

be divided for classification and use, (e.g., 10-

inch class includes diameters from 9.5 inches to 

10.49 inches.

disjunct (species)—Separated; plant or animal 

populations occupying sites away from their 

normal range, or away from other sites of 

occurrence. 

dispersed recreation—Recreation 

opportunities or use occurring in the general 

forest area. Does not take place in developed 

sites.. 

disturbance (ecology)—Any relative discrete 

event in time that disrupts the ecosystem, 

community, or population structure and changes 

resources, substrate availability, or the physical 

environment. 

disturbance-recovery regime—A natural 

pattern of periodic disturbance followed by a 

period of recovery. Examples include fire or 

flooding. 

diversity—The distribution and abundance of 

different plant and animal communities and 

species within the area covered by a land and 

resource management plan. 

drainage area/basin—The total area above 

a given point on a stream that contributes 

to the flow at that point. Term is often used 

interchangeably with watershed. 

drum chopping—Method used to prepare 

areas for reforestation. Large drums with 

cutting blades attached are pulled over areas by 

vehicles that include crawler-type tractors and 

rubber-tired skidders. 

E

early succession forest—The biotic 

community that develops immediately 

following the removal or mortality of 

most or all of forest canopy, resulting in a 

predominance of woody species regeneration. 

As used in the Final Environmental Impact 

Statement and Forest Plan, a stand age of 0 to 

B-11 
10 years is used to define this condition. See 

successional stage. 

early successional habitat—A vegatative 

condition typically characterized by low density 

to no tree canopy cover and an abundane of 

herbaceous and/or woody ground cover. This 

condition may include early-successional 

forest, maintained openings, pastures, balds, 

and open woodlands. 

early successional species—Plant or 

animal species characteristic of early forest 

successional stages. 

ecological classification system—A 

hierarchical system used to help organize and 

coordinate the classification of ecological types, 

units, and to make comparisons. Classification 

is ecologically based and integrates existing 

resource data including climate, topography, 

geology, soil, hydrology, and vegetation. The 

system includes many levels (from the topdown approach): domain, division, province, 

section, subsection, land type, land type 

association, land type phase, and site. 

ecological management unit—A grouping 

of one or more soil series that have similar 

characteristics including texture, structure, or 

water retention capacity. EMUs are used in soil 

mapping. 

ecosystem—A complete interacting system of 

organisms and their environment. 

ecosystem/cover type —The native vegetation 

ecological community considered together with 

non-living factors of the environment as a unit. 

The general cover type occupying the greatest 

percent of the stand location. Based on tree or 

plant species forming a plurality of the stocking 

within the stand. May be observed in the field, 

or computed from plot measurements. 

electronic sites—Areas designated for the 

operation of equipment which transmits and 

receives radio signals. 

endangered species —Any species that is 

in danger of extinction throughout all or a 

significant portion of its range, other than 

members of the class Insecta that have been 

determined by the Department of Interior to 

constitute a pest whose protection under the 

provisions of this (Endangered Species Act 

of 1973) act would present an overwhelming 

and overriding risk to humans. It must be 

designated in the Federal Register by the 

appropriate secretary. 

Endangered Species Act of 1973—An act 

that enables endangered and threatened species 

to be conserved. It provides a program for 

the conservation of such species, and takes 

appropriate steps to achieve the purposes of the 

(relevant) treaties and conventions. 

endemic—Species restricted to a particular 

geographic area. Usually limited to one or a 

few small streams or a single drainage. 

ending inventory—The standing volume at 

the end of the planning horizon. It must be 

adequate for the maintenance of long-term 

sustained yield. 

environment—All the conditions, 

circumstances, and influences surrounding and 

affecting the development of an organism, or 

group of organisms. 

environmental consequence—The result or 

effect of an action upon the environment. 

Environmental Impact Statement 

—A disclosure document revealing the 

environmental effects of a proposed 

action, which is required for major federal 

actions under Section 102 of the National 

Environmental Policy Act, and released to the 

public and other agencies for comment and 

review. Final Environmental Impact Statement 

(FEIS) is the final version of the statement 

disclosing environmental effects required for 

B-12 
major federal actions under Section 102 of the 

National Environmental Policy Act. 

environmental impact—Used interchangeably 

with environmental consequence or effect. 

ephemeral streams—Streams having flows 

that occur for short periods of time in direct response to storm precipitation or snowmelt runoff. Their bottoms are always above the water 

table and do not contain fish or aquatic insects 

that have larvae with multiple-year life cycles. 

Ephemeral streams may have a defined channel, but may be manifested as a natural swale or 

depression with vegetation and organic material 

covering the bottom. They also may serve as a 

conduit for much of the sediment that enters the 

stream system. Large woody debris associated 

with ephemeral streams may also contribute 

significantly to the stability of a stream system. 

Ephemeral streams that exhibit an ordinary 

high watermark, show signs of annual scour or 

sediment transport, are considered navigable 

waters of the United States. 

erosion—The wearing away of the land surface 

by the action of wind, water, or gravity. 

essential habitat—Habitat in which threatened 

and endangered species occur, but which has 

not been declared as critical habitat. Occupied 

habitat or suitable unoccupied habitat necessary 

for the protection and recovery of a federally 

designated threatened or endangered species. 

eutrophication—Condition of a lake where 

deleterious effects are caused by increased 

nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorous), and a 

decrease in oxygen. 

evapo-transpiration—The transfer of water 

vapor to the atmosphere from soil and water 

surfaces (evaporation), and from living plant 

cells (transpiration). 

even-aged methods—Regeneration methods 

designed to maintain and regenerate a stand 

with a single age class. 

even-aged silvicultural system—A planned 

sequence of treatments designed to maintain 

and regenerate a stand with one age class. 

even-aged stand—A stand of trees containing 

a single age class in which the range of tree 

ages is usually less than 20 percent of rotation. 

existing old growth—Individual stands 

currently recognized by the FS as meeting the 

parameters for existing old growth as described 

in the “Guidance for Conserving and Restoring 

Old-Growth Forest Communities on National 

Forests in the Southern Region” 

extirpation —Extinction of a species from all 

or part of its range. 

F

farmer-owned land—Owned by farm operators, excluding incorporated farm ownerships. 

fauna—The animals of a given region or period. 

featured species—The selected wildlife species 

whose habitat requirements guide wildlife 

management including coordination, multiple 

use planning, direct habitat improvements, 

and cooperative programs for a unit of land. In 

context of land management planning, featured 

species are similar to management indicator 

species. 

Federal Register—The designated document 

that notifies the public of federal actions 

and includes Notice of Intent, calls for 

public involvement, etc. It also publishes the 

regulations needed to implement those federal 

actions. 

felling—The cutting down of trees. 

final crop—That portion of the growing stock 

(to be) kept until final commercial harvest, (i.e., 

B-13 
final product objective) 

fire condition class—Based on coarse scale 

national data, classes measure general wildfire 

risk: 

Class One—Fire regimes are usually 

within historical ranges. Vegetation 

composition and structure are intact. 

The risk of losing key ecosystem 

components from the occurrence of fire 

is relatively low. 

Class Two—Fire regimes on these 

lands have been moderately altered 

from their historical range by increased 

or decreased fire frequency. A 

moderate risk of losing key ecosystem 

components has been identified. 

Class Three—Fire regimes on these 

lands have been significantly altered 

from their historical return interval. 

The risk of losing key ecosystem 

components from fire is high. Fire 

frequencies have departed from 

historical ranges by multiple return 

intervals. Vegetation composition, 

structure and diversity have been 

significantly altered. 

fire line—A linear barrier used to stop 

prescribed burns and wildfires by removing 

or treating fuels. Fire lines may include using 

mechanically plowed lines, water, retardants, 

etc. 

fire management effectiveness index—A 

measure of the effectiveness of annual fire 

management operational programs. Measured 

in dollars per thousand acres protected, the 

objective is to minimize the index value. 

fire management plan—Strategic plans that 

define a program to manage wildland fires 

based on an area’s approved land management 

plan.They must address a full range of fire 

management activities that support ecosystem 

sustainability, values to be protected, 

protection of firefighter and public safety, 

public health and environmental issues, and 

must be consistent with resource management 

objectives and activities of the area. 

fire regime—A generalized description of 

the role a fire plays in the ecosystem. It is 

characterized by fire frequency, predictability, 

seasonality, intensity, duration, scale (patch 

size), and regularity or variability. Five 

combinations of fire frequency exist. 

Groups One and Two include fire 

return intervals in the 0-35 range. 

One includes Ponderosa Pine, other 

long needle pine species, and dry site 

Douglas Fir. Group Two includes the 

drier grassland types—tall grass prairie, 

and some Pacific chaparral ecosystems. 

Groups Three and Four include fire 

return intervals in the 35-100+ year 

range. Three includes interior dry site 

shrub communities including sagebrush 

and chaparral ecosystems. Group Four 

includes Lodgepole and Jack Pine. 

Group Five is the long interval 

(infrequent), stand replacement fire 

regime and includes temperate rain 

forest, boreal forest, and high elevation 

conifer species. 

fire use—The combination of wildland fire use 

and prescribed fire application to meet resource 

objectives. 

fisheries classification—Water bodies and 

streams classed as having a cold- or warmwater fishery. This designation is dependent 

upon the dominant species of fish occupying 

the water. 

fisheries habitat—Streams, lakes, and 

reservoirs that support fish. 

floodplains—Lowland or relatively flat areas 

joining inland and coastal water including, at a 

minimum, that area subject to a 1-percent (100-

B-14 
year return period) or greater chance of flooding 

in any given year. Although floodplains and 

wetlands fall within the riparian area, they 

are defined here separately as described in the 

Forest Service Manual. 

floor on first period production—The 

minimum harvest volume in the first period 

that should be produced to prevent a significant 

impact on the local economy. 

flora—The plants of a given region or period. 

forage—All browse and non-woody plants that 

are available to livestock or game animals used 

for grazing or harvested for feeding. 

forage production—The weight of forage that 

is produced within a designated period of time 

on a given area. The weight may be expressed 

as green, air dry, or oven dry. The term may 

also be modified as to time of production 

including annual, current years, or seasonal 

forage production. 

foreground—The area between the viewer and 

the middle ground in a landscape; generally 

from 0 to 1⁄2 mile distance. 

forest—An area managed for the production of 

timber and other forest products, or maintained 

under woody vegetation for indirect benefits 

as protection of a watershed, recreation, or 

wildlife habitat. 

forest type—A category of forest defined 

by its vegetation (particularly its dominant 

composition) as based on a percentage cover of 

trees. 

forest development road—A road wholly 

or partly within, or adjacent to, and serving a 

part of the National Forest System. It also has 

been included in the Forest Development Road 

System Plan. 

forest health—The perceived condition of a 

forest derived from concerns about factors as 

its age, structure, composition, function, vigor, 

presence of unusual levels of insects or disease, 

and resilience to disturbance. 

forest land—Land at least 10 percent occupied 

by forest trees of any size, or formerly 

having had such tree cover, and not currently 

developed for non-forest use. Lands developed 

for non-forest use including areas for crops, 

improved pasture, residential, or administrative 

areas, improved roads of any width, adjoining 

road clearing, and power line clearing of any 

width. 

Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources 

Planning Act of 1974—An act of Congress 

requiring the preparation of a program for 

the management of the national forests’ 

renewable resources, and of land and resource 

management plans for units of the National 

Forest System. It also requires a continuing 

inventory of all National Forest System lands 

and renewable resources. 

Forest Service Handbook (FSH)—A 

handbook that provides detailed instructions for 

proceeding with specialized phases of programs 

or activities for Forest Service use. 

Forest Service Manual (FSM)—Agency 

manuals that provide direction for Forest 

Service activities. 

forest trail system—Trails that are part of 

the forest transportation system. A designated 

path commonly used and maintained for 

hikers, horse riders, bicycles, or two-wheeled 

motorized vehicles. 

forest type—A descriptive term used to group 

stands of similar composition and development 

because of given ecological factors, by which 

they may be differentiated from other groups of 

stands. 

forest supervisor—The official responsible for 

administering the National Forest System lands 

in a Forest Service administrative unit. It may 

consist of two or more national forests or all the 

B-15 
forests within a state. The supervisor reports to 

the regional forester. 

forest-wide standard—A performance 

criterion indicating acceptable norms, 

specification, or quality that actions must meet 

to maintain the minimum considerations for 

a particular resource. This type of standard 

applies to all areas of the forest regardless of 

the other management prescriptions applied. 

free-to-grow—A seedling or small tree free 

from direct competition from other trees, 

shrubs, grasses, or herbaceous plants. 

fuel break —Any natural or constructed barrier 

used to segregate, stop, and control the spread 

of fire, or to provide a control line from which 

to work. 

fuel treatment —The rearrangement or 

disposal of fuels to reduce fire hazard. Fuels are 

defined as living and dead vegetative materials 

consumable by fire. 

fuels management—The planned treatment 

of fuels to achieve or maintain desired fuels 

conditions. 

fuelwood—Wood used for conversion to some 

form of energy. 

G

game species—Any species of wildlife or fish 

for which seasons and bag limits have been 

prescribed, and which are normally harvested 

by hunters, trappers, and fishermen under state 

or federal laws, codes, and regulations. 

General Forest Area—National forest lands 

not categorized as developed recreation sites, 

trails or wilderness. It can be a logical working 

area, (i.e., a drainage, geographic area, forest 

district, etc.) Typically containing a wide 

spectrum of settings and opportunities, facilities 

and sites located inside the boundary of a GFA 

are sometimes considered concentrated use 

areas (CUA), that may include dispersed frontand/or backcountry campsites, parking areas, 

pullouts and landings, river and road corridors, 

lake surfaces, and day use areas including OHV 

areas, climbing areas, target shooting areas, etc. 

Amenities or constructed features inside GFAs 

are primarily for resource protection. 

geologic features—Landforms or other 

features of significant geologic interest that 

may require special management to protect the 

special qualities, or provide interpretation to the 

public. 

geologic formation—A mappable body of 

rock identified by distinctive characteristics, 

some degree of internal homogeneity, and 

stratigraphic position. The name normally 

consists of two parts. The first is the name of 

the geographic locality where the formation 

was first identified and described. This is 

followed by a descriptive geologic term, 

usually the dominant rock type. 

Geographic Information System—An 

information processing technology to input, 

store, manipulate, analyze, and display spatial 

resource data to support the decision-making 

processes of an organization. Generally, 

an electronic medium for processing map 

information, typically used with manual 

processes to affect specific decisions about land 

base and its resources. 

geological area—A unit of land that has been 

designated by the Forest Service as containing 

outstanding formations or unique geological 

features of the earth’s development, including 

caves and fossils. Areas of this type and all 

other special interest areas are identified and 

formally classified primarily because of their 

recreational and educational values. Areas with 

similar types of values of scientific importance 

are formally classified as research natural areas. 

B-16 
global ranks—Ranks assigned by the Nature 

Conservancy and state heritage programs based 

on number of occurrences. 

grassland—Areas on which vegetation is 

dominated by grasses, grass-like plants, forbs, 

and/or cryptogams (mosses, lichens, and ferns), 

provided these areas do not qualify as built-up 

land or cultivated cropland. Examples include 

tall grass and short grass prairies, meadows, 

cordgrass marshes, sphagnum moss areas, 

pasturelands, and areas cut for hay. 

grazing—Consumption of range or pasture 

forage by animals. 

grazing capacity—The maximum stocking rate 

possible without inducing damage to vegetation 

or related resources. 

grazing permit—Official, written permission 

to graze a specified number, kind, and class 

of livestock for a specific period on a defined 

range allotment. 

gross receipts—A total of all funds received by 

the U.S. Treasury as a result of Forest Service 

activities. 

groundwater—Water in a saturated zone in a 

geologic stratum. Water stored below the water 

table where the soil (or other geologic material) 

is saturated. 

group selection—An uneven-aged regeneration 

method in which trees are removed periodically 

in small groups. Uneven age classes for trees 

are established in small groups. The width 

of groups is about twice the height of the 

mature trees, with small opening providing 

microenvironments suitable for tolerant 

regeneration, and the larger openings providing 

conditions suitable for more intolerant 

regeneration. 

growing stock trees—Live trees, meeting 

specified standards of quality or vigor, included 

in growth and yield projections to arrive at the 

allowable sale quantity. 

growing stock volume—Volume (cubic feet) 

of solid wood in growing stock trees 5 inches 

DBH and larger, from a 1-foot stump to a 

minimum 4-inch top diameter, outside bark, 

on the central stem. Volume of solid wood in 

primary forks from the point of occurrence to 

a minimum 4-inch top diameter outside bark is 

included. 

H

habitat—The native environment of an animal 

or plant. 

harvest cutting—An intermediate for final 

cutting that extracts salable trees. 

harvesting method—A procedure by which 

a stand is logged. Emphasis is on meeting 

logging requirements rather than silvicultural 

objectives. 

herbicide—A pesticide used for killing or 

controlling the growth of undesirable plants. 

high-grading—The removal from the most 

commercially valuable trees, often leaving 

a residual stand composed of trees of poor 

condition or species composition. 

historic landscapes—Industrial, agricultural, 

pastoral or domestic landscapes that have 

evolved over many years from human 

alteration. Commonly functional and often 

vernacular, the landscapes may not always 

be visually pleasing, often responding to 

specific functions or topography, not formally 

planned or designed. They may be informal 

to the degree that they appear to be natural 

occurrences, or the spatial organization of built 

and natural elements may be quite traditional 

or formal. They are identifiable and can be 

B-17 
I 

mapped, either as point-specific features or 

enclaves within a larger landscape, as entire 

landscapes themselves, or as a combination of 

both. 

human resource programs—Any of the 

federal labor programs providing work 

experience for local people. 

hydric soils—Soils developed in conditions 

where soil oxygen is limited by the presence 

of saturated soil for long periods during the 

growing season. 

immediate foreground- The area in the landscape from the viewer out to 300 feet distance. 

improved pasture —Fenced, fertilized 

pastures intensively managed for livestock 

grazing. 

improvement cutting—The removal of less 

desirable trees in a stand of poles or larger 

trees, primarily to improve composition and 

quality. 

industrial fuelwood—Wood to be used 

specifically by industry for production of 

energy. 

industrial wood—All commercial round wood 

products, except fuelwood. 

infestation—The attack by macroscopic 

organisms in considerable concentration. 

Examples are infestations of tree crowns by 

budworm, timber by termites, soil or other 

substrates by nematodes or weeds. 

INFRA infrastructure—An integrated database for collection/storage/use of information 

about features, land units, facilities and utilities, accessibility and real property. For recreation management, INFRA holds information 

on O&M costs, recreation funding shortfalls, 

recreation use data, information on accessibility, and inventories of facilities. INFRA brings 

together Oracle, Arc Info and Arc View GIS 

technology, and supplements recreation management systems including SMS, ROS and 

Benefits Based Management. 

initial attack—The aggressive response to a 

wildland fire based on values to be protected, 

benefits of response, and reasonable cost of 

response. 

in-stream flow—The presence of adequate 

stream flow in channels necessary to maintain 

the integrity of the stream channel, and 

protection of downstream beneficial uses 

including fish and wildlife needs, outdoor 

recreation uses of water, and livestock watering 

needs. 

integrated pest management (IPM)—The 

maintenance of destructive agents, including 

insects at tolerable levels, by the planned 

use of a variety of preventive, suppressive, 

or regulatory tactics and strategies that are 

ecologically and economically efficient and 

socially acceptable. 

Interdisciplinary Team—A group of resource 

specialists (e.g., forester, wildlife biologist, 

hydrologist, etc.) responsible for developing 

the Forest Plan/Environmental Statement, and 

for making recommendations to the forest 

supervisor. 

intermediate treatments—A collective term 

for any treatment designed to enhance growth, 

quality, vigor, and composition of the stand 

after establishment of regeneration and prior to 

final harvest. 

intermittent streams—Streams that flow 

in response to a seasonally-fluctuating 

water table in a well-defined channel. The 

channel will exhibit signs of annual scour, 

sediment transport, and other stream channel 

characteristics, absent perennial flows. 

B-18 
L 

Intermittent streams typically flow during 

times of elevated water table levels, and may 

be dry during significant periods of the year, 

depending on precipitation cycles. 

interpretive association—A nonprofit, taxexempt corporation or organization whose 

purpose is extending and enhancing the ability 

of the Forest Service to provide customer 

service to National Forest visitors. They 

work cooperatively with the Forest Service in 

educating the public about natural and cultural 

issues on public lands. 

interpretive services—Visitor information 

services designed to present inspirational, 

educational, and recreational values to forest 

visitors in an effort to promote understanding, 

appreciation, and enjoyment of their forest 

experience. 

intolerant—A plant requiring sunlight and 

exposure for establishment and growth. 

land exchange—The conveyance of nonfederal land or interests in the land in exchange 

for National Forest System land or interests in 

land. 

landing—A cleared area in the forest to which 

logs are yarded or skidded for loading onto 

trucks for transport. 

landline location—Legal identification and 

accurate location of national forest property 

boundaries. 

land management planning—A formal 

process of management planning involving 

four interactive steps: monitoring, assessment, 

decision making, and implementations as 

described in the Federal Code of Regulations. 

landscape—An area composed of interacting 

ecosystems that are repeated because of 

geology, land form, soils, climate, biota, 

and human influences throughout the area. 

Landscapes are generally of a size, shape, 

and pattern that are determined by interacting 

ecosystems 

. 

landscape character—Particular attributes, 

qualities, and traits of landscape that give it an 

image and make it identifiable or unique. 

land type—An intermediate level in the 

ecological classification system based on 

landform, natural vegetative communities, and 

soils. 

land type association—A group of landtypes. 

The landtypes in the association are sufficiently 

homogeneous to be considered as a whole 

for modeling the future outputs and effects 

of planned management activities. Landtype 

associations may not follow watershed 

boundaries, and are defined on the basis 

of general similarities in climate, geology, 

landform, and vegetation. 

large woody debris (LWD) (coarse woody 

debris) (CWD)—Any piece(s) of dead woody 

material, e.g., dead boles, limbs, and large root 

masses, on the ground in forest stands, or in 

streams. 

late-seral (successional) stage—The stage of 

forest development at which overstory trees 

have attained most of expected height growth 

and have reached ecological maturity. As used 

in the Final Environmental Impact Statement 

and Forest Plan, a stand age of greater than 80 

years is generally used to defin this condition. 

Old-growth forests occur during the late 

periods of this seral stage at ages that vary 

by forest type and in response to a variety of 

environmental conditions. See successional 

stage. 

B-19 
lease—A contract between the landowner and 

another granting the latter the right to search 

for and produce oil, gas, or other mineral 

substances (as specified in the document) on 

payment of an agreed rental, bonus, or royalty. 

This right is subject to the terms, conditions, 

and limitations specified in the document. 

leave tree—A tree (marked to be) left standing 

for wildlife, seed production, etc, in an area 

where it might otherwise be felled. 

limits of acceptable change (LAC)—A planning process used to establish acceptable 

wilderness resource and social conditions and 

prescribe appropriate management actions. 

local road—Roads that connect terminal 

facilities with forest collector or forest arterial 

roads, or public highways. Forest local roads 

may be developed and operated for either 

long- or short-term service. These roads are 

generally single lane. 

low PSI skidder—A term used to identify 

any one of several types of vehicles used to 

move logs from stump to log loading area. 

Low PSI (pounds per square inch) identifies 

those vehicles that, because of design of tracks, 

wheels, or suspension system, exert much lower 

pressure on ground surface than other types of 

ground-based skidding vehicles. 

logging—The felling, skidding, on-site 

processing, and loading of trees or logs onto 

trucks. 

long-term sustained-yield capacity—The 

highest uniform wood yield from lands being 

managed for timber production that may 

be sustained under a specified management 

intensity, consistent with multiple-use 

objectives. 

M

machine planting—A method by which tree 

seedlings are planted by mechanical means 

rather than by hand. 

management action—A set of management 

activities applied to a land area to produced a 

desired output. 

management action controls—Specifies the 

acreage or the proportion of an analysis unit 

assigned to a set of management actions. The 

controls can be specified in terms of greater 

than or equal to, equal to, or less than equal to 

some amount, or proportion of the analysis unit 

acreage. 

management area —A selected grouping of 

capability or analysis areas selected through 

evaluation procedures used to locate decisions, 

and resolve issues and concerns. An area with 

similar management objectives, and a common 

management prescription. 

Management Attainment Report (MAR)—A 

process used in determining whether work is 

progressing as planned. It provides the manager 

with information for measuring progress 

against objectives, information for measuring 

self and subordinates’ performance, and an 

indication of a reporting unit’s performance. 

management concern—An issue, problem, 

or condition which constrains the range of 

management practices identified by the Forest 

Service in the planning process. 

management direction—A statement of 

multiple-use and other goals and objectives. 

The associated management prescriptions, and 

standards and guidelines for attaining them. 

management emphasis—The multiple-use 

values to be featured or enhanced. 

B-20 
management indicator species—An animal 

or plant selected for use as a planning tool in 

accordance with 1982 NFMA regulations (36 

CFR 219.19). These species are used to help 

set objectives, analyze effects of alternatives, 

and monitor plan implementation. They are 

chosen because their population changes are 

believed to indicate the effects of management 

on selected biological components. 

management intensity—A management 

practice or combination of management 

practices and associated costs designed to 

obtain different levels of goods and services. 

management opportunity—A statement of 

general actions, measures, or treatments that 

address a public issue or management concern 

in a favorable way. 

Management Plan (Forest Plan)—A plan 

developed to meet the requirements of the 

Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources 

Planning Act of 1974, as amended, that guides 

all natural resource management activities 

and establishes management standards and 

guidelines for the National Forest System lands 

of a given national forest. 

management practice—A specific action, 

measure, course of action, or treatment 

undertaken on a forest. 

management prescription—Management 

practices and intensity selected and scheduled 

for application on a specific area to attain 

multiple-use and other goals and objectives. 

management situation—A comprehensive 

statement of the planning area resources, its 

history as it may influence planning, past and 

present uses, and a review of the public issus 

directly concerned with the area. 

management team—A decision-making group 

consisting of the forest supervisor, staff officers, 

and district rangers. 

management type—The tree species or species 

group that should be grown on a specific site, 

whether or not it presently occupies the site 

that best suits the particular site soil, aspect, 

elevation, and moisture provided by the area 

and the forest plan’s objectives. 

mast tree—Generally hardwood trees of the 

heavy seeded variety including oaks, hickories, 

walnut, beech—25 years and older capable of 

producing frequent seed crops to feed a variety 

of wildlife species. 

mature timber—The stage at which a crop or 

stand of trees best fulfills the main purpose for 

which it was grown. 

maximum modification—A visual quality 

objective in which man’s activity may dominate 

the characteristic landscape, but should appear 

as a natural occurrence when viewed as 

background. 

mean annual increment of growth—The total 

increase in girth, diameter, basal area, height, 

or volume of individual trees or a stand up to a 

given age divided by that age. 

mechanical site preparation—Soil 

disturbance by mechanical chopping, 

furrowing, dozing, or disking to prepare areas 

for reforestation. Objective is to reduce plant 

competition for trees to be planted. 

mesic—Sites or habitats characterized by 

intermediate moisture conditions, i.e., neither 

decidedly wet or dry. 

mesophytic— Plants which grow or are 

adapted to conditions where there is a balanced 

supply of water; in conditions which are neither 

wet nor dry. 

middle ground—The space between the 

foreground and the background in a picture or 

landscape, generally 1⁄2 mile to 4 miles distance 

from the viewer. 

B-21 
mid-serel (successional) stage—The stage of 

forest development during which distinct overstory, midstory, and understory canopies are 

developed. As used in the Final Environmental 

Impact Statement and Forest Plan, a stand of 

11 to 40 years is generally used to define this 

condition. See successional stage. 

. 

mineral exploration—The search for valuable 

minerals on lands open to mineral entry. 

mineral soil—Weathered rock materials 

without any vegetative cover. 

mineral resource—A known or undiscovered 

concentration of naturally occurring solid, 

liquid, or gaseous material in or on the 

earth’s crust in such form and amount that 

economic extraction of a commodity from 

the concentration is currently or potentially 

feasible. 

minerals (leasable)—Coal, oil, gas, phosphate, 

sodium, potassium, oil shale, sulphur, and 

geothermal steam. All hard-rock minerals that 

occur on acquired lands, as opposed to public 

domain lands, are leasable. 

minerals (salable)—Common variety deposits 

that—although they may have value or use 

in trade, manufacture, the sciences, or in the 

mechanical or ornamental arts—do not possess 

a distinct, special economic value for such use 

over and above the normal uses of the general 

sum of such deposits. These may include sand, 

stone, gravel, pumicite, cinders, pumice (except 

that occurring in pieces more than two inches 

on a side), clay, and petrified wood. 

minimum management requirement—Any 

constraint imposed to comply with 36 CFR 

219.27 and other legal restrictions that must 

be met by benchmark solutions as noted in 36 

CFR 219.11(e)(1). These include requirements 

including conserving soil productivity, 

maintaining minimum viable populations of 

wildlife, preserving the habitat of endangered 

species’ habitat, dispersing openings, and 

limiting cut size. It also includes any other 

standards and guidelines, including best 

management practices that serve to define 

management prescriptions and resource 

response. 

mitigation—Actions to avoid, minimize, 

reduce, eliminate, or rectify the impact of a 

management practice. 

monitoring —The periodic evaluation on 

a sample basis of Forest Plan management 

practices to determine how fully objectives 

have been met, and how closely management 

standards have been applied. 

montane—Relating to the zone of relatively 

moist, cool upland ;slopes characterized by the 

presence of large evergreen trees as a dominant 

life form. 

mortality—Dead or dying trees resulting from 

forest fire, insect, diseases, or climatic factors. 

motorized equipment—Machines that use 

a motor, engine, or other non-living power 

source. This includes, but is not limited to such 

machines as chain saws, aircraft, snowmobiles, 

generators, motor boats, and motor vehicles. It 

does not include small battery or gas powered 

hand carried devices that include+ shavers, 

wristwatches, flashlights, cameras, stoves, or 

other similar small equipment. 

multiple use—The management of all the 

various renewable surface resources of the 

National Forest System so that they are used in 

a manner that will best meet the needs of the 

American people. Making the most judicious 

use of the land for these resources or related 

services over areas large enough to provide 

sufficient latitude for periodic adjustments 

in the use to conform to changing needs and 

conditions. 

B-22 
multipliers—The ratio of a total impact to 

a component of the impact in input/output 

analysis. An example would be the ratio of the 

sum of direct, indirect, and induced impacts to 

direct impacts. 

N

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) 

of 1969—An act to declare a national policy 

that will encourage productive and enjoyable 

harmony between humankind and the 

environment. It was created to promote efforts 

that will prevent or eliminate damage to the 

environment, biosphere, and stimulate the 

health and welfare of humanity. In addition, the 

act was crafted to enrich the understanding of 

the ecological systems and natural resources 

important to the nation, and establish a Council 

of Environmental Quality. 

National Forest Land and Resource 

Management Plan (Forest Plan)—A plan 

developed to meet the requirements of the 

Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources 

Planning Act of 1974, as amended, that guides 

all natural resource management activities 

and establishes management standards and 

guidelines for the Natioan Forest System lands 

of a given national forest. 

National Forest Management Act (NFMA) 

of 1976—Act passed as an amendment to the 

Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources 

Planning Act, requiring the preparation of 

regional guides and forest plans, and the 

preparation of regulations to guide them. 

National Forest System (NFS)—All national 

forest lands reserved or withdrawn from public 

domain of the United States and acquired 

through purchase, exchange, donation, or 

other means. National Grasslands and land 

utilization projects administered under Title 

III of the Bankhead–Jones Farm Tenant Act 

(50 Stat. 525, 7 U.S.C. 1010–1012), and other 

lands, waters, or interests that are administered 

by the Forest Service, or are designated for 

administration through the Forest Service as a 

part of the system. 

National Forest System Land—Federal land 

that has been legally designated as national 

forests or purchase units, and other land under 

the administration of the Forest Service, 

including experimental areas and BankheadJones Title III land. 

National Recreation Trails—Trails designated 

by the Secretary of the Interior or the Secretary 

of Agriculture as part of the national system of 

trails authorized by the National Trails System 

Act. National recreation trails provide a variety 

of outdoor recreation uses, in or reasonably 

accessible, to urban areas. 

National Visitor Use Monitoring (NUVM)— 

A systematic process to estimate annual 

recreation and other uses of National Forest 

lands through user surveys. 

National Register of Historic Places—The National Register of Historic Places is the Nation’s 

official list of cultural resources worthy of 

preservation. Authorized under the National 

Historic Preservation Act of 1966,the National 

Register is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts 

to identify, evaluate, and protect our historic 

and archeological resources. Properties listed 

in the Register include districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant 

in American history, architecture, archeology, 

engineering, and culture. The National Register 

is administered by the National Park Service, 

which is part of the U.S. Department of the 

Interior. 

National Wild and Scenic Rivers System— 

Rivers with scenic, recreational, geologic, fish 

and wildlife, historic, cultural, or other similar 

values designated by Congress under the Wild 

and Scenic Rivers Act of Oct. 2, 1968, for 

preservation of their free-flowing condition. 

B-23 
National Wilderness Preservation System— 

All lands covered by the Wilderness Act 

and subsequent wilderness designations, 

irrespective of the department or agency having 

jurisdiction. 

natural regeneration—An age class created 

from natural seeding, sprouting, suckering, or 

layering. 

net annual growth—The net change in merchantable volume expressed as an annual average between surveys in the absence of cutting 

(gross growth minus mortality). 

net public benefits—An expression used to 

signify the overall long-term value to the nation 

of all outputs and positive effects (benefits) less 

all associated inputs and negative effects (costs) 

whether they can be quantitatively valued. Net 

public benefits are measured by quantitative 

and qualitative criteria rather than a single 

measure or index. The maximization of net 

public benefits to be derived from management 

of units of the National Forest System is 

consistent with the principles of multiple use 

and sustained yield. 

no-action alternative—The most likely 

condition expected to exist in the future if 

current management direction would continue 

unchanged. 

non-chargable volume—All volume not 

included in the growth and yield projections for 

the selected management prescriptions used to 

arrive at the allowable sale quantity. 

non-commodity output—A resource output 

that cannot be bought and sold. 

non-declining yield—A level of timber 

production planned so that the planned sale and 

harvest for any future decade is equal to, or 

greater than the planned sale and harvest for the 

preceding decade. 

non-forest land—Land that has never 

supported forests and lands formerly forested 

where use for timber utilization is precluded 

by development for other use. Lands that never 

have had, or that are incapable of having 10 

percent or more of the area occupied by forest 

trees; or lands previously having such cover 

and currently developed for non-forest use. 

non-game species—Any species of wildlife 

or fish which is ordinarily not managed or 

otherwise controlled by hunting, fishing, or 

trapping regulations. The designation may vary 

by state. 

non-point source pollution—A diffuse 

source of pollution not regulated as a point 

source. May include atmospheric, deposition, 

agricultural runoff, and sediment from landdistributing activities. 

non-stocked stands—Stands less than 16.7 

percent stocked with growing stock trees. 

non-timber forest products— All forest 

products except timber, including resins, oils, 

leaves, bark, plants other than trees, fungi, and 

animals or animal products. 

O

objective—A concise, time-specific statement 

of measurable planned results that respond to 

pre-established goals. It forms the basis for 

further planning to define the precise steps to be 

taken and the resources to be used in achieving 

identified goals. 

off-highway vehicle (OHV)—Any vehicle 

capable of being operated off established roads; 

e.g., ATVs, motorbikes, four-wheel drives, and 

snowmobiles. (Also referred to as OHV or offhighway vehicle). 

off-road vehicle (ORV)—Any motorized 

vehicle designed for or capable of cross county 

B-24 
travel on or immediately over land, water, 

sand, snow, ice, marsh, swampland, or other 

natural terrain; except that term excludes (A) 

any registered motorboat; (B) any fire, military, 

emergency or law enforcement vehicle when 

used for emergency purposes, and any combat 

or combat support vehicle\when used for 

national defense purposes; and (C) any vehicle 

whose use is expressly authorized by the 

respective agency head under a permit, lease, 

license, or contract. 

offstream use—Water withdrawn or diverted 

from a ground or surface-water source for 

public water supply, industry, irrigation, 

livestock, thermoelectric power generation, and 

other uses. 

old growth forests—An ecosystem 

distinguished by old trees and related structural 

attributes. Old growth encompasses the later 

stages of stand development that typically differ 

from earlier stages in a variety of characteristics 

including tree size, accumulation of large 

dead woody material, number of canopy 

layers, species composition, and ecosystem 

function. Old growth is not necessarily virgin 

or primeval. It can develop over time following 

human disturbances, just as it does following 

natural disturbances. Old growth encompasses 

older forests dominated by early seral species, 

and forests in later successional stages 

dominated by shade tolerant species. 

on-site—A term referring to species normally 

found on a site under natural conditions. The 

same or contiguous property that may be 

divided by a public or private right-of-way, 

provided that the entrance and exit between the 

properties is at a crossroads intersection, and 

that access is by crossing, as opposed to going 

along the right-of-way. 

operating plan—A written plan, prepared 

by those engaged in mining activity on the 

forests, and approved by a forest officer for 

prospecting, exploration, or extraction activities 

that are slated to take place on National Forest 

System land. 

ordinary high water mark—The line on the 

shore established by the fluctuation of water, 

and is indicated by physical characteristics 

including a clear, natural line impressed on 

the bank; shelving, changes in the character of 

soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the 

presence of litter, debris, or other appropriate 

means that consider the characteristics of the 

surrounding area. 

output—The goods, end products, or services 

that are purchased, consumed, or used directly 

by people. Goods, services, products, and 

concerns produced by activities that are 

measurable and capable of being used to 

determine the effectiveness of programs and 

activities in meeting objectives. A broad term 

for describing any result, product, or service 

that a process or activity actually produces. 

output, minimum level—The amount 

of an output that will occur regardless of 

management activity. 

outstanding mineral rights—Instances in 

which the minerals in federally- owned lands 

were severed prior to the transaction in which 

government acquired the land. Such rights are 

not subject to the Secretary of Agriculture’s 

rules and regulations. Removal or extraction of 

these minerals must be allowed in accordance 

with the instrument severing the minerals from 

the surface and under applicable state and local 

laws and regulations. 

overstory—That portion of trees in a two- or 

multi-layered forest stand that provides the 

upper crown cover. 

overstory removal—The cutting of trees 

comprising an upper canopy layer in order 

B-25 
to release trees or other vegetation in an 

understory. 

P

PAOT—Persons-at-one-time; a measure of 

recreation carrying capacity, especially for developed sites. National conventions include 5 

persons per family picnic/camp unit, 3.5 persons per parking lot stall at a trailhead or visitor 

center, 1.5 persons per motorcycle parking stall 

and 40 persons per tour bus parking stall. 

partial retention— A visual quality objective 

which in human activities may be evident, but 

must remain subordinate to the characteristic 

landscape. 

partnership—Voluntary, mutually beneficial 

and desired arrangement between the Forest 

Service and another or others to accomplish 

mutually agreed-on objectives consistent with 

the agency’s mission and serving the public’s 

interest. 

payments in lieu of taxes—Payments to local 

or state governments based on ownership of 

federal land, and not directly dependent on 

production of outputs or receipt sharing. 

per capita use—The average amount of water 

used person during a standard time period, 

generally per day. 

perennial stream—Any watercourse that 

generally flows most of the year in a welldefined channel and is below the water table. 

Droughts and other precipitation patterns 

may influence the actual duration of flow. It 

contains fish or aquatic insects that have larvae 

with multi-year life cycles. Water-dependent 

vegetation is typically associated with perennial 

streams. 

person-year—About 2,000 working hours that 

may be filled by one person working during the 

course of one year or several people working a 

total of 2,000 hours 

. 

petrographic—The description and systematic 

classification of rocks. 

physiographic region—A region of similar 

geologic structure and climate that has had a 

unified geomorphic history. 

piedmont—The “foothills”; a physiographic 

province, or large area of similar geologic 

structure, geomorphic history, and climate, 

characterized by rolling hills, clay soils, 

metaphorpic rocks, and moderate elevations. 

In South Carolina, the piedmont ranges from 

the sandhills region, which crosses the state at 

Augusta, Columbia, and Lancaster, to an area 

running roughly from Westminster to Landrum 

planning area—The area of the National 

Forest System covered by a regional guide or 

forest plan. 

planning criteria—Standards, tests, rules, 

and guidelines by which the planning process 

is conducted, and upon which judgments and 

decisions are based. 

planning horizon—The overall time period 

considered in the planning process that spans 

all activities covered in the analysis or plan. 

All future conditions and effects of proposed 

actions which would influence the planning 

decisions. 

planning period—One decade. The time 

interval within the planning horizon that is used 

to show incremental changes in yields, costs, 

effects, and benefits. 

plastic soil— soils with excessive clay and 

high moisture retention near the surface, which 

moves aside or displaces under heavy loads, 

forming deep ruts. 

B-26 
pre-commercial thinning—The selective 

felling, deadening, or removal of tree in a 

young stand not for immediate financial return, 

but primarily to accelerate diameter increment 

on the remaining stems. To maintain a specific 

stocking or stand density range, or to improve 

the vigor and quality of the remaining trees. 

prescribed fire—Any fire ignited by 

management actions to meet specific objectives 

including disposal of fuels, and controlling 

unwanted vegetation. The fires are conducted 

in accordance with prescribed fire plans, and 

are also designed to stimulate grasses, forbs, 

shrubs, or trees for range, wildlife, recreation, 

or timber management purposes. 

present net value—The difference between 

the discounted value (benefits) of all outputs to 

which monetary values or established market 

prices are assigned and the total discounted 

costs of managing the planning area. 

preservation—A visual quality objective that 

provides for ecological change only. 

presuppression—Activities required in 

advance of fire occurrence to ensure effective 

suppression action, including: (1) recruiting and 

training fire forces, (2) planning and organizing 

attack methods, (3) procuring and maintaining 

fire equipment, and (4) maintaining structural 

improvements necessary for the fire program. 

primary trout stream—Streams that contain 

naturally-reproducing populations of brook, 

rainbow, and/or brown trout. 

primitive road—Roads constructed with no 

regard for grade control or designed drainage, 

sometimes by merely repeated driving over an 

area. These roads are single lane, usually with 

native surfacing and sometimes passable with 

four-wheel drive vehicles only, especially in 

wet weather. 

process records—A system that records 

decisions and activities that result from the 

process of developing a forest plan, revision, or 

significant amendment. 

proclamation boundary—The boundary 

contained within the presidential proclamation 

that established the national forest. 

productive deferred—Productive (capable) 

forest land which has been legislatively 

designated or administratively designated by 

the Secretary of Agriculture or Chief of the 

Forest Service for wilderness study or possible 

additions to the Wilderness System. This 

classification includes RARE II area designated 

as wilderness, but does not include RARE II 

areas designated as “further planning.” 

productivity class—A classification of the 

capacity of a given piece of land for timber 

growth is expressed in cubic feet per acre a 

year. 

Class I—Lands capable of producing 120 

cubic feet or more per acre a year. 

Class II—Lands capable of producing 85 to 

119 cubic feet per acre a year. 

Class III—Lands capable of producing 50 

to 84 cubic feet per acre a year. 

Class IV—Lands capable of producing 20 

to 49 cubic feet per acre a year. 

program—Sets of activities or projects with 

specific objectives, defined in terms of specific 

results and responsibilities for accomplishments 

. 

program budget—The schedule of projects 

and activities to be carried out on the forest for 

a year for which funds have been appropriated. 

program development and budgeting—The 

process by which activities for the forest are 

proposed and funded. 

B-27 
project—A work schedule prescribed for 

a project area to accomplish management 

prescriptions. An organized effort to 

achieve an objective identified by location, 

activities, outputs, effects, time period, and 

responsibilities for execution. 

proposed action—In terms of the National 

Environmental Policy Act, the project, activity, 

or decision that a federal agency intends 

to implement or undertake. The proposed 

action described in the Environmental Impact 

Statement is the Forest Plan. 

proposed wilderness—Areas recommended 

for wilderness by the Forest Service as a result 

of the RARE II study, but which have yet to be 

acted on by Congress. 

prospecting permit—A written instrument 

or contract between the landowner and 

another conveying to the latter the right to 

enter the former’s property and search for 

mineral materials. Two types of permits are 

used: (1) a BLM Prospecting Permit is issued 

by the Bureau of Land Management upon 

recommendation of the Forest Service. In most 

cases, these are preference right permits in 

which the prospector has the first opportunity, 

to the exclusion of all others, to lease any 

minerals discovered, and (2) a Forest Service 

Prospecting Permit issued by the Forest 

Service. No preference rights are conveyed 

under Forest Service permits, except in some 

cases of common varieties on acquired lands. 

public domain land—Original holdings of 

the United States that were never granted or 

conveyed to other jurisdictions or reacquired 

by exchange for other public domain lands. 

public issue—A subject or question of 

widespread public interest relating to 

management of the National Forest System. 

public participation activities—Meetings, 

conferences, seminars, workshops, tours, 

written comments, survey questionnaires, and 

similar activities designed or held to obtain 

comments from the general public and specific 

publics. 

public roads—Roads across national forest 

land which were in place as public ways when 

these lands were acquired. These roads may be 

a part of the forest, state, or county system, and 

may be maintained by any of these agencies. 

public supply—Water withdrawn by public 

and private water suppliers and delivered to 

users. 

puddled soils—intense soil disturbance under 

very wet conditions that causes the normal soil

structure to break down into soupy mixture. 

pulpwood—Wood cut and prepared primarily 

for manufacture into wood pulp. 

pure stand—A stand composed of essentially 

a single tree species, conventionally at least 

85 percent based on numbers, basal areas, or 

volumes. 

Q

qualifiers—Measurable characteristics of 

outputs and activities. They characterize 

properties or attributes of activities or outputs. 

R

raking—A term used in land clearing whereby 

crawler tractors, or other types of similar heavy 

equipment, with a large rake device attached to 

the front end, are used to push clearing debris 

into piles or windrows. 

ranger district—Administrative subdivisions 

of the forest supervised by a District Ranger 

who reports to the Forest Supervisor. 

B-28 
rare species—Any native or once-native 

species of wild animal which exists in small 

numbers, and has been determined to need 

monitoring. May include peripheral species. 

real dollar value—A monetary value, which 

compensates for the effects of inflation. 

receipt shares—The portion of receipts derived 

from Forest Service resource management that 

is distributed to state and county governments, 

including the Forest Service, 25 percent fund 

payments. 

reconstruction—Work that includes, but is 

not limited to, widening of roads, improving 

alignment, providing additional turnouts, 

and improving sight distance that improve 

the standard to which the road was originally 

constructed. Also undertaken to increase the 

capacity of the road or to provide greater traffic 

safety. 

Record of Decision—A document separate 

from, but associated with an environmental 

impact statement that publicly and officially 

discloses the responsible official’s decision on 

the alternative assessed in the environmental 

impact statement chosen to implement. 

recreation—Leisure time activity including 

swimming, picnicking, camping, boating, 

hiking, hunting, and fishing. 

recreation capacity—A measure of the number 

of people a site can reasonably accommodate at 

one time; sometimes measured as PAOTs. 

recreation alignment—To align or allocate the 

recreation resources (activities and opportunities) of an area with the niche and markets of 

the that area. 

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum—A 

method for classifying types of recreation 

experiences available, or for specifying 

recreation experience objectives desired in 

certain areas. Classes are: Primitive, SemiPrimitive Non-Motorized, Semi-Primitive 

Motorized, Roaded Natural, Rural, and Urban. 

• Primitive ROS—An area characterized 

by having essentially unmodified 

natural environment of fairly large size. 

Interaction between users is very low 

and evidence of other users is minimal. 

The area is managed to be essentially 

free from evidence of human-induced 

restrictions and controls. Motorized use 

within the area is not permitted. 

The recreation experience opportunity 

level provided would be characterized 

by the extremely high probability of 

experiencing isolation from the sights 

and sounds of humans, independence, 

closeness to nature, tranquility, and 

self-reliance through the application 

of woodsmen and outdoor skills in an 

environment that offers a high degree of 

challenge and risk. 

• Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized 

(ROS)—An area characterized by 

a predominantly natural or naturalappearing environment of moderateto-large size. Interaction between users 

(or concentration of users) is low, but 

there is often evidence of other users. 

The area is managed in such a way 

that minimum on-site controls and 

restrictions may be present but are 

subtle. 

The recreation experience 

opportunity level provided would 

be characterized by the high, but 

not extremely high (or moderate) 

probability of experiencing isolation 

from the sights and sounds of humans, 

independence, closeness to nature, 

tranquility, and self-reliance through the 

application of woodsman and outdoor 

skills in an environment that offers 

challenge and risk. (The opportunity to 

have a high degree of interaction with 

B-29 
the natural environment.) Motorized use and sounds of humans. Opportunities 

• 

is not permitted. 

Semi-Primitive Motorized 

(ROS)—An area characterized by 

a predominantly natural or naturalfor both motorized and non-motorized 

forms of recreation may be provided. 

• Rural (ROS)—A classification 

appearing environment of moderate- for areas characterized by a 

to-large size. Interaction between users substantially modified natural 

(or concentration of users) is low, but environment. Resource modification 

there is often evidence of other users. and utilization practices are to 

The area is managed in such a way enhance specific recreation activities 

that minimum on-site controls and and to maintain vegetative cover and 

restrictions may be present but are soil, but harmonize with the natural 

subtle. environment. A considerable number 

The recreation experience opportunity of facilities are designed for use by 

level provided would be characterized a large number of people. Moderate 

by the high, but not extremely densities are provided away from 

high (or moderate) probability of developed sites. Facilities for 

experiencing isolation from the sights intensified motorized use and 

and sounds of humans, independence, parking are provided. 

closeness to nature, tranquility, and The recreation opportunity 

self-reliance through the application experience level provided would 

of woodsman and outdoor skills in be characterized by the probability 

an environment that offers challenge for experiencing affiliation with 

and risk. (The opportunity to have a individuals and groups is prevalent, 

high degree of interaction with the as is the convenience of sites and 

natural environment.) Motorized use is opportunities. These factors are 

permitted. generally more important than the 

• Roaded Natural (ROS)—An area 

setting. Opportunities for wildland 

challenge, risk taking, and testing 

characterized by predominantly natural- of outdoor skills are generally 

appearing environments with moderate 

evidences of the sights and sounds of 

unimportant. 

• Urban (ROS)—An area 

man. Such evidences usually harmonize characterized by a substantially 

with the natural environment. urbanized environment, although 

Interaction between users may be low the background may have naturalto moderate, but with evidence of other appearing elements. Renewable 

users prevalent. Resource modification resources modification and 

and utilization practices are evident, but utilization practices are to enhance 

harmonize with the natural environment. specific recreation activities. 

Conventional motorized use is provided Vegetative cover is often exotic and 

for in construction standards and design manicured. Sights and sound of 

of facilities. humans, on-site, are predominant. 

The recreation opportunity experience Large numbers of users can be 

level provided would be characterized expected, both on-site and in 

by the probability for equal experienc- nearby areas. Facilities for highly 

ing of affiliation with individuals and intensified motor use and parking 

groups and for isolation from sights are available with forms of mass 

transit often available to carry 

B-30
people throughout the site. 

The recreation opportunity 

experience level provided would 

be characterized by the probability 

for experiencing affiliation with 

individuals and groups is prevalent, 

as is the convenience of sites and 

opportunities. Experiencing natural 

environments, having challenges 

and risk afforded by the natural 

environment, and the use of outdoor 

skills are relatively unimportant. 

Opportunities for competitive and 

spectator sports and for passive uses 

of highly human-influenced parks 

and open spaces are common. 

recreation visit—The entry of one person upon 

a National Forest to participate in recreation activities for an unspecified period of time. A NF 

visit can be composed of multiple site visits. 

reforestation —The re-establishment of forest 

cover by seeding, planting, and natural means. 

regeneration— The act of renewing of a tree 

crop by establishing young trees by naturally or 

artificially. The young crop itself. 

regeneration cutting—Any removal of trees 

intended to assist regeneration already present 

or to make regeneration possible. 

regeneration (reproduction) method—A 

cutting procedure by which a new age class is 

created. The major methods are clearcutting, 

seed-tree, shelterwood, selection, and coppice. 

regeneration (reproduction) period—The 

time between the initial regeneration cutting 

and the successful re-establishment of a new 

age class by natural means, planting, or direct 

seeding. 

Region 8—The states that make up the 

Southern Region of the USDA Forest Service. 

Regional Forester—The official responsible 

for management of National Forest land within 

a USDA Forest Service region. 

regulated harvest—Includes any volume 

scheduled in calculations of the allowable sale 

quantity which is harvested from suitable forest 

land. 

release and weeding—A silvercultural 

treatment designed to free desirable trees from 

competition with overstory trees, less desirable 

trees, or grasses and other forms of vegetative 

growth. It includes release of natural and 

artificial regeneration. 

relic (species)— An isolated species from 

an ancient family as established through a 

long fossil record and exhibiting a restricted 

distribution. 

removal cut—The cut which removes the 

last seed bearers of a seed tree or shelterwood 

regeneration method after the new seedling 

stand is considered to be established. 

research natural area—An area set aside 

by the Forest Service specifically to preserve 

a representative sample of an ecological 

community, primarily for scientific and 

educational purposes. Commercial exploitation 

is not allowed and general public use is 

discouraged. 

reserve trees—Trees, pole-sized or larger, 

retained after the regeneration period under the 

clearcutting, seed-tree, shelterwood, or coppice 

methods. 

reserved mineral rights—Refers to those 

cases wherein the minerals were severed from 

the surface during the transaction whereby the 

government acquired the land. These rights are 

subject to the Secretary of Agriculture’s rules 

and regulations that were applicable at the time 

B-31 
of the transaction. 

resource—An aspect of human environment 

which renders possible, or facilitates the 

satisfaction of, human wants, and the 

attainment of social objectives. 

resource allocation model—A mathematical 

model using linear programming that will 

allocate land to prescriptions and schedule 

implementation of those prescriptions 

simultaneously. The end purpose of the model 

is to find a schedule and allocation that meets 

the goals of the forest and optimizes some 

objective function including minimizing costs. 

The model used for this planning is called 

spectrum. 

resource use and development 

opportunities—A possible action, measure, or 

treatment and corresponding goods and services 

identified and introduced during the scoping 

process. It may subsequently be incorporated 

into and addressed by the land and resource 

management plan in terms of a management 

prescription. 

responsible line officer—The Forest Service 

employee who has the authority to select and/or 

carry out a specific planning action. 

retention—A visual quality objective in which 

man’s activities are not evident to the casual 

forest visitor. 

revegetation—The re-establishment and 

development of a plant cover. This may take 

place naturally through the reproductive 

processes of the existing flora or artificially 

through the direct action of humans (e.g., 

afforestation and range reseeding). 

revision—To make the plan new or up-todate. Plan revision must be considered and 

approved in accordance with the requirements 

for the development and approval of a forest 

plan. Revisions take place every 10-15 years, 

but may occur more frequently if conditions or 

public demands change significantly. 

right-of-way—A right of use across the 

lands of others. It generally does not apply 

to absolute purchase of ownership. Land 

authorized to be used or occupied for the 

construction, operation, maintenance, and 

termination of a project or facility passing over, 

upon, under, or through such land. 

riparian—Land areas directly influenced by 

water. They usually have visible vegetative 

or physical characteristics showing this water 

influence. Streamside, lake borders, and 

marshes are typical riparian areas. 

riparian areas—Areas with three-dimensional 

ecotones of interaction that include terrestrial 

and aquatic ecosystems that extend down into 

the groundwater, up above the canopy, outward 

across the floodplain, up the near-slopes that 

drain to the water, laterally into the terrestrial 

ecosystem, and along the watercourse at a 

variable width. 

riparian corridor—An administrative zone 

applied to both sides of a stream or along side a 

pond, lake, wetland, seep or spring. It is a fixed 

width by stream type that may fall within or 

beyond the true riparian area. 

riparian functions—Activities that occur 

in a riparian area without the influence of 

management activities. Functions include 

erosion and deposition by the streams, nutrient 

cycling, movement and storage of water, 

vegetative succession, etc. 

ripping—A process where the soil is 

mechanically sliced or broken to improve tilth, 

aeration, and permeability. 

river classifications (wild and scenic rivers) 

(1) wild — Rivers or sections of 

rivers that are free of impoundments 

and generally inaccessible except by 

B-32 
trail, with watersheds or shorelines 

essentially primitive and waters 

unpolluted. These represent vestiges of 

primitive America. 

(2) scenic — Rivers or sections of 

rivers that are free of impoundments, 

with shorelines or watersheds still 

largely primitive and shorelines largely 

undeveloped, but accessible in places by 

roads. 

(3) recreational — Rivers or sections 

of rivers that are readily accessible by 

road or railroad, that may have some 

development along their shorelines, 

and that may have undergone some 

impoundment or diversion in the past. 

road—A motor vehicle path more than 50 

inches wide, unless classified and managed as 

a trail. It may be classed as a system or nonsystem road. 

road-constant service—A facility on the 

transportation system developed and operated 

for long-term land management and resource 

utilization needs. It is also operated for 

continuous or annual recurrent service. Systemopen roads generally remain open for public 

use except for seasonal closures to prevent road 

damage due to bad weather conditions. 

road—intermittent service—A facility on 

the transportation system that is developed and 

operated for long-term land management and 

resource utilization needs. It is operated for 

periodic service and closed for more than one 

year between periods of use. System-closed 

roads are generally built to access logging 

sites and are closed once logging activities 

are completed. They can be re-opened several 

years later, however, when access is once again 

needed to the site. 

road closure—A technique used by 

management to regulate and control the use of 

facilities to achieve transportation economy, 

user safety, protection of the public investment, 

and accomplishment of forest resource 

objectives. It may be intermittent or long term. 

road density—A measure of the total length 

of road in any given unit of area (e.g., 4 miles/ 

square mile.) 

road maintenance levels—A formally 

established set of objectives that describes the 

conditions necessary to achieve the planned 

operation of a road. The levels vary from Level 

I, basic custodial care, to Level V, which is 

assigned high use roads in which user safety 

and comfort are important considerations. 

roadless area—Undeveloped federal land 

within which there are no improved roads 

or roads maintained for travel by means of 

motorized vehicles intended for highway use. 

roadless area review and evaluation (RARE) 

II—The assessment of “primitive” areas within 

the national forests as potential wilderness areas 

as required by the Wilderness Act documented 

in the final environmental impact statement 

of the Roadless Area Review and Evaluation, 

January 1979. 

rollover—A maximum PNV solution with 

an individual good or service production 

constrained at its maximum potential level. It 

provides an economically efficient basis for 

comparing all benchmark levels. 

rotation—The number of years required to 

establish, including the regeneration period 

and grow timber crops, to a specified condition 

or maturity for harvest. Even- and two-aged 

management prescriptions in the Forest Plan 

use a rotation. 

roundwood—Timber and fuelwood prepared 

in the round state - from felled trees to material 

trimmed, barked, and crosscut (e.g.: logs and 

transmission poles). 

B-33 
RPA Program—The recommended direction 

for long-range management of renewable 

resources of National Forest System lands. This 

direction serves as the basis for the regional 

targets assigned to the forest. The development 

of this direction is required by the Forest and 

Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act. 

runoff—The total stream discharge of water 

from a watershed including surface and 

subsurface flow, but not groundwater. Usually 

expressed in acre-feet. 

rural—A recreation opportunity spectrum 

classification for areas characterized by a 

substantially modified natural environment. 

Sights and sounds of man are evident. 

Renewable resource modification and 

utilization practices enhance specific recreation 

activities or provide soil and vegetative cover 

protection. 

rural water use—Term used in previous wateruse circulars to describe water used in suburban 

or farm areas for domestic and livestock needs. 

The water is generally self-supplied. 

S

sale schedule—The quantity of timber planned 

for sale by time period from an area of suitable 

land covered by a forest plan. The first period 

(usually a decade) of the selected sale schedule 

provides the allowable sale quantity. Future 

periods are shown to establish that longterm sustained yield will be achieved and 

maintained. 

sanitation cutting—The removal of trees to 

improve stand health and to reduce actual or 

anticipated spread of insects and disease. 

sapling—A usually young tree that is larger 

than a seedling, but smaller than a pole. Size 

varies by region. 

savanna—A plant community with a structure 

characterized by trees comprising 10-25 percent 

of the canopy cover. 

sawtimber—Trees suitable in size and quality 

for producing logs that can be processed into 

dimension lumber. 

scalloping—The undulating vegetative 

treatment given to a roadside for aesthetic 

purposes. 

Scenery Management System—A system 

for the inventory and analysis of the aesthetic 

values of the National Forest Lands. It replaces 

the Visual Management System (VMS) as 

defined in Agricultural Handbook #462 The 

primary components of the SMS include: 

Landscape Character, Scenic Attractiveness, 

Existing Scenic Integrity, Concern Levels, Seen 

Areas, Scenic Classes, which are developed 

in the inventory. The Forest Plan components 

are Landscape Character Goals, Scenic 

Integrity Levels, Scenic Integrity Objectives, 

and Standards and Guidelines. These give 

management direction for the management 

areas. 

National Forest land area is mapped as 

ecological sections or subsections but may 

be other land units. Landscape Character 

descriptions are developed for mapping 

Scenic Attractiveness, Class A-Distinctive, 

B-Typical, and C-Indistinctive areas. These 

help determine the high priority scenic areas. 

Existing Scenic Integrity Levels indicate the 

degree of intactness and wholeness of the 

existing landscape character. Very High Scenic 

Integrity Level is an unaltered landscape, 

High Scenic Integrity Level is a landscape that 

appears unaltered, Moderate Scenic Integrity 

Level is a landscape that is slightly altered, 

Low Scenic Integrity Level is a landscape 

that is moderately altered, Very Low Scenic 

Integrity Level is a landscape that is heavily 

altered, and Unacceptably Low Scenic 

Integrity Level is a landscape that is extremely 

altered. 

B-34 
Concern Levels are a measure of the degree 

of public importance placed on the landscape 

viewed from travel ways and use areas. Concern Levels reflect both the number of visitors 

and the interest of visitors in scenery. Concern 

Level 1 areas include primary recreation areas, 

very high use roadways, major roadways and 

trails through the forest, and places with moderate use where nearly all visitors are very concerned about scenery. Concern Level 2 areas 

include mostly secondary recreation areas, secondary roadways, trails, and places with moderate use and visitors with moderate interest in 

scenery. Concern level 3 travel ways and areas 

are those which receive very little use and/or 

use is primarily by visitors not concerned with 

scenery. 

After Concern Levels are determined, the 

visibility of each area is mapped. Foreground 

is defined as up to 1⁄2 mile from the viewer, 

Middleground is 1⁄2 mile to 4 miles, and Background is over 4 miles from the viewer. The 

Seldom Seen areas are also mapped. 

Scenic Classes are determined by overlaying 

Scenic Attractiveness, Landscape Visibility, and 

Concern Level. The matrix in Table 4-2 page 

4-16 from the SMS handbook is used. Scenic 

Class 1 scenery has extremely high public value, Scenic Class 2 scenery has very high public 

value, Scenic Class 3 scenery has high public 

value, Scenic Class 4 scenery has moderately 

high public value, Scenic Class 5 scenery has 

moderate public value, Scenic Class 6 scenery 

has moderately low public value, and Scenic 

Class 7 scenery has low public value. The 

Scenic Classes are used during the Forest planning process to compare the value of scenery to 

other resources. 

Scenic Integrity Objectives (SIOs) and 

Landscape Character Goals are developed for 

Forest Plan Management Areas. Scenic Integrity Objectives are Very High-unaltered, Highappears unaltered, Moderate-slightly altered, 

and Low-moderately altered. The SIO that is 

assigned to a management area in the Forest 

Plan may be different than that of its existing 

Scenic Integrity Level indicating that any new 

scenic attractiveness—The scenic importance 

of a landscape based on human perceptions 

of the intrinsic beauty of landform, rockform, 

waterform, and vegetation pattern. Classified as 

A (Distinctive), B (Typical or Common), or C 

(Undistinguished). 

scenic class—A system of classification describing the importance or value of a particular 

landscape or portions of that landscape. Values range from 1 (highest value) to 7 (lowest 

value). 

scenic integrity objective—A desired level of 

excellence based on physical and sociological 

characteristics of an area. Refers to the degree 

of acceptable alterations of the characteristic 

landscape. Objectives include very high, high, 

moderate, and low. 

• very high (VH)—Generally provides 

for only ecological changes in natural 

landscapes and complete intactness of 

landscape character in cultural landscapes. 

• high (H)—Human activities are not 

visually evident to the casual observer. 

Activities may only repeat attributes of 

form, line, color, and texture found in 

the existing landscape character. 

• moderate (M)—Landscapes appear 

slightly altered. Noticeable human created deviations must remain visually 

subordinate to the landscape character 

being viewed. 

• low (L)—Landscapes appear moderately altered. Human created deviations 

begin to dominate the valued landscape 

character being viewed but borrow from 

valued attributes such as size, shape, 

edge effect, and pattern of natural openings, vegetative type changes, or architectural styles outside the landscape 

being viewed. 

B-35 
scoured channel—A definable channel of flow 

where surface water converges with enough 

energy to remove soil, organic matter, and leaf 

litter. 

secondary processor—A mill that processes 

partially manufactured wood (a wood product 

such as chips or lumber), into a finished product. Examples include paper and furniture. 

secondary trout streams—Streams that do not 

contain naturally-reproducing trout populations, 

but will sustain trout throughout the year. 

Populations must be maintained by stocking. 

sediment—Solid mineral and organic material 

that is in suspension, is being transported, or 

has been moved from its site of origin by air, 

water, gravity, or ice. 

seedling/sapling stands—Stands at least 16.7 

percent stocked with growing stock trees, of 

which more than one-half of total stocking is 

seedlings and saplings. 

seed tree —An even-aged regeneration method 

where in a single cut, the removal of all 

merchantable trees in a stand, except for a small 

number of widely dispersed trees retained for 

seed production, and to produce a new age class 

in a fully-exposed microenvironment. 

seed-tree with reserves method—A two-aged 

regeneration method in which some or all of the 

seed trees are retained after regeneration has 

become established to attain goals other than 

regeneration. 

seep—A wet area where a seasonal high water 

table intersects with the ground surface. Seeps 

that meet the definition of a wetland are included in the Riparian Corridor. 

selected species—Species selected as 

indicators of the effects of management. Term 

is the same as management indicator species. 

selection cutting—The removal of selected 

trees, particularly mature trees at planned 

intervals (cutting cycle), individually or in 

small groups, from an uneven-aged forest to 

realize the yield, and establish a new crop of 

desired tree species. Additionally, the tending of 

immature stand components are accomplished 

at each cutting cycle. 

sensitive species—Those species that (1) have 

appeared in the Federal Register as proposals 

for classification, and are under consideration 

for official listing as endangered or threatened 

species; (2) are on an official state list, or (3) 

are recognized by the Regional Forester to need 

special management to prevent the need for 

their placement on federal or state lists. 

sensitivity analysis—A determination of the 

consequences of varying the level of one or 

several factors while holding other factors 

constant. 

sensitivity level—A particular degree or 

measure of viewer interest in the scenic 

qualities of the landscape. 

sequential lower bounds—The maximum 

percent decrease in harvest volume in any 

decade as compared to the preceding decade. 

This prevents the forest from significantly 

decreasing its share of the market, which 

would violate the assumptions of the horizontal 

demand curve. 

sequential upper bounds—The maximum 

percent increase in harvest volume in any 

decade as compared to the preceding decade. 

This prevents the forest from significantly 

increasing its share of the market, which would 

violate the assumptions of the horizontal 

demand curve. 

shearing—A method used in land clearing 

whereby tree stems are severed at ground 

line by large bladed mechanisms mounted on 

B-36 
crawler tractors (e.g.: serrated tooth V-blade or 

KG blade). 

shelterwood—A regeneration method of 

regenerating an even-aged stand in which a new 

age class develops beneath the partially shaped 

microenvironment provided by the residual 

trees. The sequence of treatments can include 

three distinct types of cuttings: (1) an optional 

preparatory harvest to enhance conditions for 

seed production; (2) an establishment harvest 

to prepare the seed bed, and to create a new 

age class; and 3) a removal harvest to release 

established regeneration from competition with 

the overwood. 

shelterwood with reserves—A two-aged 

regeneration method in which some or all of 

the shelter trees are retained, well beyond the 

normal period of retention, to attain goals other 

than regeneration. 

short-term facilities—Facilities developed 

and operated for limited resource activity or 

other project needs. It will cease to exist as 

a transportation facility after the purpose for 

which it was constructed is completed, and the 

occupied land is reclaimed and managed for 

natural resource purposes. 

silvicultural system—A management process 

whereby forests are tended, harvested, and 

replaced, resulting in a forest of distinctive 

form. Systems are classified according to the 

method of carrying out the fellings that remove 

the mature crop, and provide for regeneration 

and according to the type of forest thereby 

produced. 

silviculture—The art and science of controlling 

the establishment, growth, composition, 

health, and quality of forests and woodlands. 

Silviculture entails the manipulation of forest 

and woodland vegetation in stands and on 

landscapes to meet the diverse needs and values 

of landowners and society on a sustainable 

basis. 

silvics—The study of the life history 

and general characteristics of forest trees 

and stands, with particular reference to 

environmental factors, as a basis for the 

practice of silviculture. 

single-tree selection—A regeneration method 

of creating new age classes in uneven-aged 

stands in which individual trees of all size 

classes are removed uniformly throughout 

the stand to achieve desired stand structural 

characteristics. 

site—An area in which a plant or stand 

grows, considered in terms of its environment, 

particularly as this determines the type and 

quality of the vegetation the area can carry 

site class—A classification of site quality, 

usually expressed in terms of ranges of 

dominant tree height at a given age or potential 

mean annual increment at culmination. 

site preparation—The preparation of 

the ground surface prior to reforestation. 

Various treatments are applied as needed to 

control vegetation that will interfere with the 

establishment of the new crop of trees or to 

expose the mineral soil sufficiently for the 

establishment of the species to be reproduced. 

site index—A series-specific measure of actual 

or potential forest productivity (site quality, 

usually for even-aged stands), expressed in 

terms of the average height of trees included 

in a specified stand component (defined as a 

certain number of dominants, codominants, or 

the largest and tallest trees per unit area) at a 

specified index or base age. 

site productivity class—A species-specific 

classification of forest land in terms of 

inherent capacity to grow crops of industrial, 

commercial wood. Usually derived from the 

site index. 

B-37 
site quality (productivity)—The productive 

capacity of a site, usually expressed as volume 

production of a given species. 

skid trails—A travel way through the woods 

formed by loggers dragging (skidding) logs 

from the stump to a log landing without 

dropping a blade and without purposefully 

changing the geometric configuration of the 

ground over which they travel. 

skidding—A term for moving logs by dragging 

from stump to roadside, deck, or other landing. 

slash—The residue left on the ground after 

felling, silvicultural operations, or as a result 

of storm, fire, girdling, or poisoning. All 

vegetative debris resulting from the purchaser’s 

operations. Slash associated with construction 

of roads is subject to treatment according to 

construction specifications, all other is subject 

to the terms of contract provision B/BT6.7. 

snag—A dead or partially dead (more than 50 

percent) hardwood or pine tree which is used 

by many bird species for perching, feeding, or 

nesting. 

social analysis—An analysis of the social (as 

distinct from the economic and environmental) 

effects of a given plan or proposal for action. 

It includes identification and evaluation 

of all pertinent desirable and undesirable 

consequences to all segments of society, 

stated in some comparable quantitative terms, 

including persons or percent of population in 

each affected social segment. In addition, social 

analysis also includes a subjective analysis of 

social factors not expressible in quantitative 

terms. 

soil enhancement—Application of methods or 

materials to the soil to increase its productivity 

and stimulate growth of vegetation. 

soil productivity—The inherent capacity 

of a soil to support the growth of specified 

plants, plant communities, or a sequence of 

plant communities. Soil productivity may 

be expressed in terms of volume or weight/ 

unit area/year, percent plant cover, or other 

measures of biomass accumulation. 

soil survey—A term for the systematic 

examination of soils in the field and in 

laboratories; their description and classification; 

the mapping of kinds of soil; the interpretation 

of soils according to their adaptability for 

various crops, grasses, and trees; their behavior 

under use of treatment for plant production or 

for other purposes; and their productivity under 

different management systems. 

soil and water resource improvement—The 

application of preplanned treatment measures 

designed to favorably change conditions of 

water flow, water quality, rates of soil erosion, 

and enhancement of soil productivity. 

southern pine beetle—One of the many 

species of pine bark beetles that are present 

in the forest at all times. When environmental 

and forest conditions become favorable, the 

beetle populations can increase and cause 

substantial timber losses over extensive areas in 

a relatively short period of time. 

spatial feasibility testing— A process for 

verifying on a sample basis that land allocation 

and scheduling is actually implementable on 

the ground. 

special concern species—Species that is 

federally listed as Category 2 or ranked as 

globally rare by state heritage programs and 

The Nature Conservancy. Also used by some 

states for any species of wild animal native or 

once-native to the state which is determined by 

the state to require monitoring. 

special-use authorization—A permit, term 

permit, or easement that allows occupancy, use, 

rights, or privileges of National Forest System 

land. 

B-38 
special use permit—A permit issued under 

established laws and regulations to an 

individual, organization, or company for 

occupancy or use of National Forest land for 

some special purpose. 

splash dams—Dams, usually temporary, built 

of wood across mountain streams to pond up 

large amounts of water. 

spring—A water source located where water begins to flow from the ground due to the 

intersection of the water table with the ground 

surface. Generally flows throughout the year. 

Springs that are the source of perennial or intermittent streams are included in the Riparian 

Corridor. 

stand—A contiguous group of trees 

sufficiently uniform in age-class distribution, 

composition, and structure, and growing on 

a site of sufficiently uniform quality, to be a 

distinguishable unit. 

stand density—A quantitative measure of 

stocking expressed either absolutely per unit 

of land in terms of number of trees, basal 

area, volume per unit area, or relative to some 

standard condition. 

stand improvement—A term comprising all 

intermediate cuttings made to improve the 

composition, structure, condition, health, and 

growth of even-aged, two-aged, or uneven-aged 

stands. 

standard—Requirement that precludes or 

imposes limitations on resource management 

practices and uses. Usually for resource 

protection, public safety, or addressing an issue. 

state, county, and municipal land—Land 

owned by states, counties, and local public 

agencies or municipalities, or land leased to 

these governmental units for 50 years or more. 

stocking—The degree of occupancy of land by 

growing stock trees, measured by basal area or 

number of trees per unit area and spacing compared with a minimum standard—which varies 

by tree size and species or species group—to 

the occupancy that is required to fully utilize 

the growth potential of the land. 

stratified mixture—A stand in which different 

tree species occupy different strata of the total 

crown canopy. 

stratigraphic—Pertaining to strata or layers, as 

in a description of layers of rock types. 

stratum (canopy layer)—A distinct layer of 

vegetation within a forest community. 

Streamside Management Zones—Land areas 

adjacent to natural streams, lakes, ponds, and 

seeps. These zones are typically designed to 

reduce, minimize or prevent non-point source 

pollution from entering a stream system (e.g., 

sediment from a road or timber harvesting 

activity). Specific SMZ buffer widths are often 

defined in State Best Management Practice 

handbooks. 

stressors—Pressure or change brought upon an 

ecosystem by pollution sources including sediment, contaminants, and toxins. 

successional stage—A period marked by 

distinctiveness of structure, in the development 

of a forest community from establishment of 

tree regeneration to advanced age. In general, 

successional stages used in the Forest Plan 

and Final Environmental Impact Statement are 

defined in terms of forest age as a surrogate 

measure of the distince structure at each stage 

as follows. 

• early—0 to 10 years old 

• seedling/sapling—11 to approximately

 40 years old 

• mid—approximately 41 to 80 years old 

• late—over approximately 80 years old; 

includes old growth. 

B-39 
suitability—The appropriateness of applying 

certain resource management practices to a 

particular area of land, as determined by an 

analysis of the economic and environmental 

consequences and the alternative uses foregone. 

A unit of land may be suitable for a variety of 

individual or combined management practices. 

suitable forest land—National Forest System 

land allocated by a Forest Plan decision to be 

managed for timber production on a regulated 

basis. Regulated basis means a systematic 

relationship between tree growth and timber 

harvest such that a specific timber volume 

objective level can be sustained indefinitely. 

supply—The amount of a good or service that 

producers are willing to provide at a specified 

price, time period, and conditions of sale. 

surficial water—Water on or at the ground 

surface. Does not include ditches, canals, spillways, or other human-created flow channels. 

sustained yield of the products and 

services—The achievement and maintenance 

in perpetuity of a high-level annual or regular 

periodic output of the various renewable 

resources of the National Forest System without 

impairment of the productivity of the land. 

sympatric—Condition where two or more 

closely related species live together in the same 

section of stream. The species have overlapping 

distributions. Opposite of allopatric. 

T

targets—Objectives assigned to the forest by 

the Regional Plan. 

taxomic—Classification of organisms 

into categories according to their natural 

relationships. 

tentatively suitable forest land—National 

Forest System land that meets specific criteria 

in the implementing regulations of the National Forest Management Act (36 CFR 219.14 

for further consideration during the planning 

process for timber production on a regulated 

basis. Note that “tentatively suitable land” is 

not the same as the allocation of the existing 

Forest Plan, as amended since 1985, but is 

identified by a reanalysis. (Also called “Phase 1 

suitability” or “Stage 1 suitability” because its 

designation as Part “A” of a three-part process 

described by the text of the National Forest 

Management Act.) (Timber Supply/Demand). 

term permit—A special-use authorization to 

occupy and use National Forest System land, 

other than rights-of-way, for a specified period. 

It is revocable and compensable according to its 

terms. 

theming—A land and/or management 

scheme created with the list of land and/or 

management. 

thermoelectric power water use—Water 

used in the process of the generation of 

thermoelectric power. 

thinning— A cutting made to reduce stand 

density of trees primarily to improve growth, 

enhance forest health, or to recover potential 

mortality. 

thinning interval—The period of time between 

successive thinning entries, usually used in 

connection with even-aged stands. 

threatened species—Any species that is likely 

to become an endangered species within the 

foreseeable future throughout all or a significant 

portion of its range. Designated as a threatened 

species in the Federal Register by the Secretary 

of Interior. 

tiering —A National Environmental Policy 

Act term used to reference the coverage of 

general matters in broader environmental 

impact statements (including national program 

B-40 
or policy statements), with subsequent 

narrower statements or environmental 

analyses (including regional or basinwide 

program statements or ultimately site-specific 

statements), incorporating by reference the 

general discussions and concentrating solely on 

the issues specific to the statement subsequently 

prepared. 

timber—Wood retaining many of the recognizable characteristics of a tree: round, bark 

covered, and tapering, but without the limbs 

and leaves. In wood-industry usage, it may be 

“standing timber”- that portion of living trees 

with characteristics of value to the wood-using 

industry, or cut trees not yet processed beyond 

removing limbs and tops. 

timber demand—A relationship between 

stumpage or delivered log price and the quantity of timber produced. 

timber product market area—The geographic 

area enclosed within a polygon drawn by connecting those mills buying forest timber that are 

the farthest away from the forest. 

timber production—The purposeful growing, 

tending, harvesting, and regeneration of 

regulated crops of trees to be cut into logs, 

bolts, or other round sections for industrial 

or consumer use. For purposes of forest 

planning, timber production does not include 

the production of fuelwood or harvests from 

unsuitable lands. 

timber removals (drain)—The merchantable 

volume of trees removed from the inventory by 

harvesting, cultural operations including stand 

improvement, land clearing, or changes in land 

use expressed as an annual average between 

surveys. Within national forests, removals are 

almost all timber harvest except that the inventory on lands withdrawn by legislative action is 

also normally accounted for as “removals.” 

timber sale program quantity—The volume 

of timber planned for sale during the first 

decade of the planning horizon. It includes the 

allowable sale quantity (chargeable volume), 

and any additional material (non-chargeable 

volume), planned for sale. The timber sale 

program quantity is usually expressed as an 

annual average for the first decade. 

timber stand improvement—A term 

comprising all intermediate cuttings made 

to improve the composition, constitution, 

condition, and increment of a timber stand. 

timber supply—The amount of wood raw material available to be harvested within specified 

parameters of time and geographic area. 

timberland—Forest land that is producing or 

capable of producing in excess of 20 cubic feet 

per acre per year of industrial wood crops under 

natural conditions. Not withdrawn from timber 

utilization, and not associated with urban or 

rural development. Currently, inaccessible and 

inoperable areas are included. 

tolerance—The ability of a tree to grow 

satisfactorily in the shade of, and in competition 

with, other trees. 

topography—The configuration of a land 

surface including its relief, elevation, and 

the position of its natural and human-made 

features. 

toxicity index profile—Estimate of cumulative 

potential for toxic impacts in water. 

trailheads—The parking, signing, and other 

facilities available at the terminus of a trail. 

traffic service levels—Describe a road’s 

significant traffic characteristics and operating 

conditions. 

transfer age—The age a stand will transfer 

from one Model 2 management class to another. 

B-41 
transfer class—A Model 2 management class 

that receives transferred acres. A regeneration 

transfer class has a transfer age of zero. All 

other transfer classes have an age greater than 

zero. 

transfer columns—A column constructed the 

matrix generator to create special LP structures. 

They accumulate information from several 

decision variables into one column. 

. 

two-aged silvicultural system—A planned 

sequence of treatments designed to maintain 

and regenerate a stand with two age classes. 

two-aged stand—A stand composed of two 

distinct age classes that are separated in age by 

more than 20 percent of rotation. 

type conversion—A change from tree species 

or species group to another. An example is a 

change from hardwoods to pine. 

U

undercutting (root pruning)—The root 

pruning of seedlings in a nursery bed. 

understory—The trees and other vegetation 

growing under a more or less continuous cover 

of branches and foliage formed collectively by 

the upper portion (overstory) of adjacent trees 

and other woody growth. 

uneven-aged regeneration methods— 

Methods of regenerating a forest stand, and 

maintaining an uneven-aged structure by 

removing some trees in all size classes either 

singly, in small groups, or strips. The methods 

are single-tree or group selection. 

uneven-aged silvicultural system—A planned 

sequence of treatments designed to maintain 

and regenerate a stand with three or more age 

classes. 

universal soil loss equation—An equation 

used to estimate soil erosion rates and for the 

design of water erosion control systems. A = 

RKLSPC wherein A = average annual soil loss 

in tons per acre per year; R = rainfall factor; K 

= soil erodibility factor, L = length of slope; S 

= percent of slope; P = conservation practice 

factor; and C = cropping and management 

factor. 

unregulated forest—Commercial forest land 

that will not be organized for timber production 

under sustained-yield principles. 

unsuitable forest land (not suited)—Forest 

land not managed for timber production 

because: (a) Congress, the Secretary [of 

Agriculture], or the Chief [of the Forest 

Service] has withdrawn it; (b) it is not 

producing or capable of producing crops 

of industrial wood; (c) technology is not 

available to prevent irreversible damage to 

soils productivity, or watershed conditions; 

(d) there is no reasonable assurance based on 

existing technology and knowledge, that it is 

possible to restock lands within five years after 

final harvest, as reflected in current research 

and experience; (e) there is, at present, a lack 

of adequate information about responses to 

timber management activities; or (f) timber 

management is inconsistent with, or not 

cost efficient in meeting the management 

requirements and multiple-use objectives 

specified in the Forest Plan. 

urban—An area characterized by a 

substantially urbanized environment. The 

background may have natural-appearing 

elements. 

utilization standards—Measurements for 

standing trees that describe the minimum 

size tree that will be designated for sale for 

various products including sawtimber or small 

roundwood. 

B-42 
V 

values, market—Prices of market goods and 

services measured in real dollars in terms of what 

people are willing to pay as evidenced by market 

transactions. 

values, non-market—Prices of non-market 

goods and services imputed from other economic 

values. 

vector – A matrix composed of only one row or 

column. 

viable population—Population of plants or 

animals that has the estimated numbers and 

distribution of reproductive individuals to ensure 

its continued existence is well distributed in the 

planning area. 

viewshed—The total landscape seen, or 

potentially seen from all or a logical part of a 

travel route, use area, or water body. 

visual quality objective—A desired level of 

excellence based on physical and sociological 

characteristics of an area under the Visual Management System. Refers to the degree of acceptable alterations of the characteristic landscape. 

Objectives include Preservation, Retention, 

Partial Retention, Modification, and Maximum 

Modification. The Visual Management System 

(VMS) as defined in Agricultural Handbook #462 

and was replaced by the Scenery Management 

System. 

visual resource—The composite of basic terrain, 

geological features, water features, vegetative 

patterns, and land-use effects that typify a land 

unit and influence the visual appeal the unit may 

have for visitors. 

W

warm water fishery—Aquatic habitats that 

support fish species which have their best 

reproductive success and summer water 

temperature tolerance between 75 and 85 degrees 

Fahrenheit (23-29 C), or about 80 degrees 

Fahrenheit. Examples include sunfish species, 

and largemouth bass. 

water supply area—Areas that serve present and 

future municipal water supply and trout hatching 

or rearing operations. 

water yield—The measured output of the forest’s 

streams expressed in acre-feet. The amount or 

volume of water that flows in a given period of 

time from a watershed. 

waterbars—A change in the grade of a roadbed, 

trail surface, or fire line used to divert water off 

the surface to prevent it from eroding ruts and 

possibly carrying sediment to a stream. 

watershed—The total area above a given point 

on a stream that contributes water to the flow at 

that point. 

Weeks Act —Implemented in 1911, it authorized 

the acquisition of lands on the watershed of 

navigable streams for the purposes of conserving 

their navigability, or for the purpose of timber. 

wetlands—(pursuant to the Federal Clean Water 

Act)—Areas that are inundated or saturated 

by surface or ground water at a frequency and 

duration sufficient to support, and that under 

normal circumstances, support a prevalence of 

vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated 

soil conditions. Wetlands generally include 

swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas, and 

are found primarily within palustrine systems; 

but may also be within riverine, lacustrine, 

estruarine, and marine systems. 

wild and scenic river—A river selected for 

nomination and/or designation through the Wild 

B-43 
and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968 for possessing 

outstandingly remarkable scenic, recreational, 

geologic, fish and wildlife, historic, cultural or 

other similar values. 

wilderness—wilderness—A Congressionallydesignated area that is part of the National 

Wilderness Preservation System established 

through Wilderness Act of 1964; Also defined 

in the Act as a wilderness, in contrast with those 

areas where man and his own works dominate 

the landscape, is hereby recognized as an area 

where the earth and its community of life are 

untrammeled by man, where man himself 

is a visitor who does not remain. An area of 

wilderness is further defined to mean in this 

chapter an area of underdeveloped Federal land 

retaining its primeval character and influence, 

without permanent improvements or human 

habitation, which is protected and managed so 

as to preserve its natural conditions and which 

(1) generally appears to have been affected 

primarily by the forces of nature, with the imprint 

of man’s work substantially unnoticeable; (2) 

has outstanding opportunities for solitude or 

a primitive and unconfined type of recreation; 

(3) has at least five thousand acres of land or 

is of sufficient size as to make practicable its 

preservation and use in an unimpaired condition; 

and (4) may also contain ecological, geological, 

or other features of scientific, educational, scenic, 

or historical value. 

Wilderness Act of 1964—Act which gave 

Congress authority to designate certain areas 

of public land as wilderness. It established the 

National Wilderness Preservation System to 

secure an enduring resource of wilderness. 

wilderness study area—One of the areas 

selected by the Chief of the Forest Service from 

an inventory of undeveloped National Forest 

System lands as having apparent high qualities 

for wilderness. Lands possessing the basic 

characteristics of wilderness and designated 

by Congress for further wilderness study. A 

study can determine whether they should be 

recommended for addition to the National 

Wilderness Preservation System. 

wildland fire—Any non-structural fire on 

wildlands other than one intentionally set 

for management purposes. Confined to a 

predetermined area. Not to be confused with 

“fire use,”which includes prescribed fire. 

wildland urban interface—The line, area, 

or zone where structures and other human 

development meet or intermingle with 

undeveloped wildland or vegetative fuels. 

wildlife—All non-domesticated mammals, 

birds, reptiles, and amphibians living in a 

natural environment, including game species 

and non-game species. Animals, or their 

progeny (i.e., feral animals—including horses, 

burros, and hogs), that once were domesticated, 

but escaped captivity, are not considered 

wildlife. 

wildlife and fish user-day—A 12-hour 

participation in the use of wildlife and fish 

primarily for consumptive or non-consumptive 

use including hunting, fishing, or wildlife 

viewing. Such use is the result of habitat 

management, and the populations supported 

by that habitat. A WFUD is counted as one day 

or any part of a day that the user participated 

in these activities. Does not include sport or 

commercial uses of anadromous fish. 

wildlife habitat diversity—The distribution 

and abundance of different plant and animal 

communities and species within a specific area. 

wildlife habitat improvement—The 

manipulation or maintenance of vegetation to 

yield desired results in terms of habitat suitable 

for designated wildlife species or groups of 

species. 

wildlife tree—A den tree, snag, or mast or food 

tree. 

B-44 
X 

with-without comparison—An evaluation 

that compares outputs, benefits, costs, and other 

effects with a base alternative. 

withdrawal—Water removed from the ground 

or diverted from a surface water source for use. 

withdrawal of land—An order removing 

specific land areas from availability for certain 

uses. 

withdrawn national forest lands—National 

Forest System lands segregated or otherwise 

withheld from settlement, sale, location, or 

entry under some or all of the general land 

laws. 

woodland—A plant community with a 

structure characterized by trees comprising 25-

60% of the canopy cover. 

xeric—Pertaining to sites or habitats 

characterized by decidedly dry conditions. 

Y

yarding—A term used to describe operations 

used to move logs from stump to point where 

logs are loaded for transport to mill. Most 

commonly used in cable logging operations. 

yield composite—Activity and output 

relationships which estimate yields. They 

allow the development of a yield stream from a 

related yield stream without entering each yield 

coefficient independently. Yield composite 

relationships can be time, age, or sequence 

based. 

yield stream—A subset of a yield table 

containing specific information for an activity 

or output. A timber output may have a yield 

stream for amount, diameter, basal area, or 

trees. 

yield table—A tabular statement of outputs 

expected to be produced under a specific set of 

conditions. 

Z

zone—Large, contiguous areas of land that 

include watersheds or management areas. It 

can be comprised of several complete analysis 

units. The land within a zone is generally a 

heterogenous mixture of environmental types. 

zone management actions—Management 

actions available to zones. They contain the 

ability to coordinate the management activities 

that occur within a zone. 

B-45 
Appendix C 

Riparian Corridors 

A. Overview of Riparian Corridors 

The figure below is a simplified representation of the Riparian Corridor that demonstrates its 

extension on both sides of a watercourse, down into the water table, and laterally around 

wetlands and other surface water sources. The Riparian Corridor may fall within or beyond the 

riparian area. 

Figure 1. Simplified Representation of the Riparian Corridor 

 

Operational Definition for a Riparian Area 

Riparian areas are areas associated with the aquatic ecosystem and that portion of the terrestrial 

ecosystem that is substantially affected by the presence of surface and groundwater. Riparian 

areas are relatively flat lands with elevated water tables or seasonal flooding that border streams, 

lakes, ponds, etc. Distinct types of plant species that occur in riparian areas and are common to 

wetlands. The plant composition is often associated with the magnitude and duration of flooding 

or soil saturation from rainfall and groundwater interactions, and the types of soils that develop 

under these circumstances. Riparian areas have variable widths that are determined by 

Three Dimensions of the 

Riparian Corridor 

Downstream

Aquatic + Riparian + Upland 

Above Canopy 

Wetland

Spring

Perennial 

Stream

 Intermittent Stream

 Ephemeral Stream 

Pond 

Riparian Corridor

Intermittent 

Stream

Plan View of Riparian Corridor

C-1 
ecologically significant boundaries rather than arbitrary distances. The extent of the riparian area 

can often be estimated by changes in dominant plant species and topography when interpreting 

aerial photos. However, their boundaries are best determined on the ground by using features of 

soil, landform and vegetation, and hydrologic indicators when they are present. No feature is 

used alone to delineate these ecosystems. Characteristics indicative of these areas include but 

are not necessarily limited to: 

Soils- The physical characteristics of soils that are reflected in their taxonomic names often 

describe soil properties that are suggestive of riparian status. Soils with rainfall exceeding 

evapotranspiration, flooding, high moisture holding capacity, moisture restriction and/or elevated 

water tables within the normal rooting zone reveal these characteristics upon field classification. 

Taxonomic soil names with descriptors such as Fluva (floodprone), Aqua (water) or Ombroaqua 

(rain and water) are a just few examples. 

Landforms- The 100-year floodplain, stream terraces (especially the first terrace), and 

depressional features are typically indicative of riparian conditions. 

Vegetation- The presence, types and abundance of wetland plants are used to help determine 

wetland and riparian status. References include Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual 

(Technical Report Y-87-1, 1987), which includes a National and Southeast Plant list or other 

available plant lists on this subject such as the US Fish and Wildlife Service National Plant List 

of Plants that Occur in Wetlands (Reed, 1988). 

Hydrology – Hydrology indicators are not always present, but can be helpful in determining 

frequency or likelihood of flooding from adjacent streams, or include observations associated 

with streamflow, rainfall or groundwater levels for specific determinations. 

Although some of the indicators are technically demanding for classification purposes. Many of 

the soil, landform, plant and hydrology indicators can applied by trained field crews to assist in 

the determination if specialists in each field are not on the delineation team. 

C. Relationship of Riparian Corridors with Streamside Management Zones 

TIn the implementation of the Sumter National Forest Plans, we will meet or exceed State BMPs 

to protect water quality. Current State BMP handbooks or manuals are incorporated as direction 

in the Forest Plan and are implemented for those resource management activities that are covered 

by the handbooks/manuals. Management direction for activities not included in BMP 

handbooks/manuals are included in the Forest Plan or this appendix. Where specific direction is 

lacking for a specific activity, other guidance documents such as the Region 8 Soil and Water 

Conservation Practices Guide (2002) will be consulted as needed. 

The streamside management zones (SMZ) recommended in South Carolina’s Best Management 

Practices for Forestry are designated areas directly adjacent to streams and water bodies where 

land management activities are controlled or regulated to primarily protect water quality and 

aquatic organisms from upslope land uses. Provisions within the SMZ typically contain 

C-2 
sediment filter strips, a base shade level, restriction on ground disturbance and protection of 

stream banks and streambeds. As described, Riparian Corridors are management prescription 

areas that maintain ecological processes and functions. SMZs may be the same width or 

smaller than the riparian corridor, however, in some cases they may extend beyond the corridor. 

(See Figure 2.) 

The Sumter Forest Plan may also apply additional standards that are applicable to acres within 

the SMZ. This is due to the difference in BMP guidelines (which pertain to forestry 

practices)local geological or physical conditions which require specific SMZ direction (e.g. steep 

slopes). 

Figure 2. The Relationship of the Riparian Corridor to the SMZ 

Relationship of Riparian Corridor to SMZ 

Spring 

Pond Steep 

Slope 

Wetland Intermittent 

Stream 

Perennial 

Stream 

Riparian Corridor 

Streamside Management Zone ---------- 

C-3 
D-1

Timber Suitability Analysis

During forest land and resource management

planning, the Forest Service is required to

identify lands unsuited for timber production (36

CFR 219.14). This identification process

involves three stages of analysis. Stage 1

analysis identifies lands tentatively suitable for

timber production. Stage 2 analysis is designed

to explore the financial aspect of varying

intensities of timber management on lands

identified as tentatively suitable for timber

production from Stage 1. Stage 3 analysis

identifies lands as unsuited for timber

production under the alternative selected in the

revised Forest Land and Resource Management

Plan.

 The “Stage 2 Suitability Analysis” is an

economic analysis of each Analysis Unit (AU) in

SPECTRUM. It is meant to answer two

questions 1) Which lands are “above cost”, and

2) Which management intensity is the most

economical for each Analysis Unit. The results

of this analysis can be found in Appendix B of

the FEIS.

 Table D-2 displays the results of the Stage 3

Analysis:

 All of the acres above are approximate.

Management prescription 11 is estimated based

on stream order, slope, and soil type. Actual

area will be based on ground conditions.

Management prescriptions 5A, 5B, and 5C are

included in the non-forest acres used to calculate

tentatively suitable lands.

Appendix D

Suitability for Timber Production and

Timber Sale Program

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T 0 FNretmuSlato 58,263

W 5 ssenredli 58,2-

W 4 reviRcinecS/dli 15,3-

W 1 reta 67,1-

N 1 tserof-no 44,5-

T 9 elbatiuSylevitatne 72,943

sisylanA3egatSfostluseR.2-DelbaT

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1 s B R 1 senredliWdednemmoce 791-

2 r 3A R 7 eviRlanoitaerce 79-

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4 s F S 9 aerAcinec 79,9-

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1 s 1 R 3 rodirroCnairapi 65,55-

1 y A2 R 3 rtnuockcaBetome 144-

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D-2

Timber Sale Program.

NFMA regulations (36 CFR 219.16) require that

“In a forest plan, the selected forest management

alternative includes a sale schedule which

provides the allowable sale quantity.” The

following table shows the allowable sale

quantity (ASQ) calculated by the Spectrum

linear programming model. For Forest Plan

purposes, the following table fulfills the

requirement of 36 CFR 219.16. ASQ is an

estimated output. It describes the maximum

volume of timber that may be harvested from

lands suitable for timber production during a

specified period, usually ten years. This volume

may not be exceeded during a given decade, and

is not presented as a guaranteed harvest volume.

The actual volume sold depends on budgets,

workforce, and site-specific analysis that are

beyond the scope of this plan.

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1 931

2 931

3 931

4 931

5 931

6 931

7 931

8 931

9 931

1 9 0 13
 _______________________ National Forest

MQ # Monitoring Question Element Method of Collection Duration/ 

Frequency

Reporting Interval Needed Precision Needed Reliability Responsibility Goal # 

1

Are rare communities being protected, maintained, and restored?

Baseline acreage, condition, and distribution of rare communities on the Forest

GIS Query for acreage; Condition determined based on field visits to rare commmunity sites. Assessments will primarily be qualitative, through quantitative elements may be included where warranted.

Not less than 

once/ every 5 

years

Report Annually as Needed High High Forest Botanist 12 

1

Rare communities restored, acres. Specifically table mountain pine-dominated communities and canebrakes

Query MAR Targets related to habitat restoration.

Not less than 

once/ every 5 

years

Report Annually as Needed High High Forest Botanist 12 

2

Are landscape-level and stand-level composition and structure of major forest communities within desirable ranges of variability?

Restore native communities on sites occupied by loblolly pine on the Andrew Pickens District

Monitor acres of loblolly pine on the Andrew Pickens Ranger District.

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Report annually as needed Med Med Forest Silviculurist and Forest Biologist 8 

2

Provide for dry-xeric sites in the piedmont and mountains with rare communities preferred. 

Monitor acres of woodland, savanna, and grassland on the forest. Representative species, diversit

and abundance in fire adapted plant communities. 

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Report annually as needed Med Med Forest Silviculurist and Forest Biologist 8 

2

Create conditions to restore dry-mesic oak, oak-pine, and pine-oak communities on the peidmont

Monitor acres restored to oak, oak-pine, or pine-oak in the piedmont. Representative species, diversity, and abundance in fire adapted plant communities. Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Report annually as needed Med Med Forest Silviculurist and Forest Biologist 8 

2

Increase shortleaf pine and shortleaf pine/oak communities on the piedmont

Monitor acres of shortleaf pine, shortleaf pine-oak on the piedmont.

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Report annually as needed Med Med Forest Silviculurist and Forest Biologist 8 

2

Increase structural diversity by creating gaps in 1 to 5 percento of closed canopy mid- and late-successional mesic deciduous forest

Monitor acres treated within mesic deciduous forest. 

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Report annually as needed Med Med Forest Silviculurist and Forest Biologist 8 

2

Restore sites currently occupied by white pine stands to diverse native communities

Monitor acres in white pine.

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Report annually as needed Med Med Forest Silviculurist and Forest Biologist 8 

2

Trends in MIS population indicies in relationship to major forest community/conditions. Frequency of occurrence trends in hooded warbler, scarlet tanager, pine warbler, acadian flycatcher and brown-headed nuthatch . 

Collect bird point data. 

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Report annually as needed High High Forest Biologist 8

3

Are key successional stage habitats being provided?

Trends in Early, Mid and Late Successional Habitat by prescriptiion group

Monitor acres regenerated in 10B, 7E2, 8A1, 8B2, 9A3, 9G2 Management Prescriptions. Calculate percentage of each management prescription and intermingled riparian corridors that is age 0-10. Query on GIS database in 10B, 7E2, 8A1, 8B2, 9A3, 9G2 Management Prescriptions. based on age classes defined for mid and late successional habitat. Calculate percentage of each management prescription and intermingled riparian corridor

that is in mid to late successional conditioin

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Report annually as needed High High Forest Biologist and Forest Silviculturist

8, 

for Manage

prescriptions 1

8A1, 8B2, 9A

3

Acres, conditions, and distribution of existing old growth

Conduct field visits to existing old growth sites to assess community condition, and identify impending threats and management needs.

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Every 5 Years High HIgh Forest Botantist 13 

3

Trends in MIS population indicies in relationship to major forest community/conditions. Frequency of occurrence trends in prairie warbler,

swainson's warbler, and field sparrow . 

Collect bird point data. 

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Report annually as needed High High Forest Biologist 8

4

How well are key terrestrial habitat attributes being provided?

Acres, conditions, and distribution of wetland habitats and ephemeral wetlands. (See other elements related to MIS species, woody debris, and riparian condition under questions 2, 4, and 16)

Monitor acres surveyed for wetlands habitats. Monitor acres and # of sites inventoried as wetland or ephemeral pools. Sample frequency of occurrence of frog species using stratified random points in all habitat types. Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Report annually as needed Med Med Forest Biologist 3,4,8,9 

 Appendix E - MONITORING SUMMARY TABLE
4

Trends in MIS population indicies in relationship to major forest community/conditions. Frequency of occurrence trends in pileated woodpecker. 

Collect bird point data. 

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Report annually as needed High High Forest Biologist 8

4

Trends in hard mast production capability Map and update changes in forest composition and condition through routine inventories. Infer 

mast production capability from the status of older age classes of oak forest community types.

5 years 5 years Moderate Moderate Forest Siliviculurist 8

5

What is the status and trend in aquatic habitat conditions in relationship to aquatic communities?

Trends in the composition and abundance of macroinvertebrate communities 

Kick nets, surber samplers, electroshocking, nets, snorkeling and other appropriate methods using defined protocols Each selected 

stream will be 

monitored 3 

times every 10 

years

Annually High High S.O. Fisheries Biologist 3, 4

5

Trends in the composition and abundance of stream fish communities

Electrofishing, seining, snorkeling and other defined protocol

Each selected 

stream will be 

monitored 3 

times every 10 

years

Annually High High S.O. Fisheries Biologist 3, 4

5

Trend in aquatic habitat conditions. Perennial and

intermittent streams are managed in a manner that emphasizes and recruits large woody debris. Improve, rehabilitte or restore aquatic habitat. 

Basinwide habitat surveys and other appropriate methods using defined protocol. 

Annually Annually High High S.O. Fisheries Biologist 3, 4 

5

Trend in the composition and abundance of impoundment fish communities

Electrofishing and nets; water quality kits

Annually Annually HIgh High S.O. Fisheries Biologist 3, 4

6

What are status and trends of forest health threats on the forest?

Conditions and trends of forest fuels and acres of hazardous fuels treated through wildland fire use, prescribed fire, and mechanical treatment 

Fuel monitoring following Regional protocol. Acres of hazardous fuels treated through wildland fire use, prescribed fire, and mechanical treatment mapped into the GIS data base reports generate

through GIS/NRIS FSVeg queries.

Continuous Annual Moderate Moderate District FMO & Forest FMO 2017

6

Improve forest health in pine stands by reducing stand density.

Query from STARS database, or review of forms in timber sale folder. 

Annual Annual Medium Medium Forest Silviculurist 16 

6

Compliance with NAAQS air particulate emissions from NF lands [36 CFR 219.27(a)(12)] (Ask Charlie)

Compare results against NAAQS for fine particulates. Data collected by the Georgia and SC air regulatory agency, analyzed by Forest Service personnel. Standard practices to eximate emission

(use correct emisssion factors from EPA's "AP-42" or more specifiec factors. Gather data for fine particulates near prescribed fires. Annual Annual Medium Medium Forest FMO and Zone Air Specialist 7

6

Treatments to eliminate or control invasive nonnative species. Emphasize treatments of PETS or specific areas. Baseline acres infested with nonnative plants by species. 

Query MAR Targets related Noxious Weed Control. Query NRIS Database of Invasive Species Locations; Collect Forestwide data when available and supplement with project-level data.

Annually as 

Available 5-years High High Forest Ecologist 15 

6

Maintain condition class 1 by restoring historic fire return intervals and reducing the risk of losing ecosystem components to wildfire. 

Monitor acres in condition class 1

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Report annually as needed Med Med Forest Silviculurist and Forest Biologist 20 

7

What are the status and trends of federally listed species and populations or habitats for species with viability concerns on the forest?

Trends in recovery of T&E species, and status and distribution of some viability concern species that are not specifically identified under other elements. Species targeted under this element wil

be determined through periodic review of each species'status and conservation priority. Priorities will likely vary through the life of the plan as new information is obtained. 

Various methods will be used as appropriate to the species or species group. Refer to the PETS Species Inventory and Monitoring Handbook.

Monitor 

populations 

and/or habitat 

annually

Annual High High Forest Ecologist 4, 10, 1
8

What are the trends for demand species and their use?

Trends in harvest data for bobwhite quail, deer, turkey, bear; WMA permit sales, turkey tags and bear permits issued. 

Monitor annual harvest records and other recreation use indicies in cooperation with SCDNR and USFWS.

Annually Annually as needed Med Med Forest Biologist 8, 22, 23

8

Maintain or improve ponds/lake habitat for recreationalfisheries 

Monitor acres of pond treatment and number of fish structures

Annually Annually Med Med Forest Biologist and Forest Fisheries Biologist 

8

Trends in MIS population indicies in relationship to major forest community/conditions. Frequency of occurrence 

trends in bobwhite quail, eastern wild turkey and black bear. 

Trends in population indicies.

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Report annually as needed High High Forest Biologist 8

9

Are high quality, nature-based recreation experiences being provided and what are the trends

Results and trends in user satisfaction ratings [36 CFR 219.21(a)]

 Analysis of NVUM cutomer satisfaction data and any local customer satisfaction information available.

Every 5 years Every 5 years Low/ moderate Low/ moderate SO-Recreation Staff 22, 23

10

What are the status and trends of recreation use impacts on the environment?

Recreation activities contribution to the degradation of riparian areas or adversely affecting water quality 

Evaluation of recreation's possible contribution to particular problems identified by other monitoring elements in this plan. Amount of recreation use and type of activity will be considered. M&E Report. See monitoring questions#1, 5,6,7, 8, 9,15.

Annually Annual Moderate High Recreation StaffSO and natural resource scientists 1, 3, 4, 5, 

10

Impacts associated with OHV activities. Compilation of field monitoring and field observation of OHV trail condition and documentation of 

improvement needs. 

Annually Annually Moderate Moderate to High Recreation Staff and Forest Soil Scientist and Forest Hydrologist 1, 3, 4, 5, 22

10

Are motorized and nonmorized trails being mantained? Analysis of deferred maintenance and report percent change in trail backlog.

Annually Annually Moderate Moderate to High Recreation Staff 25

11

What is the status and trend of wilderness character?

Is visitor use within limits that do not impair the wilderness characteristics? [36 CFR 219.18(a)]

Compilation of field monitoring and field observation of trails and any use areas condition and documentation of improvement needs. 

Annually Annually Moderate Moderate District 26, 27

12

What are the status and trend of Wild and Scenic River conditions?

Are free-flowing conditions and outstandingly remarkable values being protected for eligible and designated rivers?

Review a variety of projects within the river corridors (these may include prescribed fire, maintenance of trails and recreation facilities, restoration of native communities, control of non-native invasive vegetation and insects and disease outbreaks). Each stream/river 

will be monitored 

every 3 years or 

more often if 

needed.

Annually Moderate Moderate SO - Recreation Staff and Resource Specialists 1, 28, 2

12

Are water quality standards being met for eligible and designated rivers?

Review USGS and other water quality records for fecal coliform and other components at measurement sites. 

Collect information at critical sites if questions remain about water quality impairments and the conditions that produce them. 

Annually Annually Moderate Moderate Forest hydrologist 1, 28 29

13

Are the scenery and recreation settings changing and why?

Acres of National Forest land that meet or exceed established scenic quality objectives [36 CFR 219.27(c)(6), 36 CFR 219.27(d)(1)]

Review a sample of projects (use the treatment and location data in activity tracking system). Projects should include a variety of SIO's, if available. 

Every 5 years Every 5 Years Moderate Moderate SO-Recreation Staff (Forest Landscape Architect) 13, 30

13

Acres of National Forest land that meet or exceed established ROS objectives. 

Review a sample of projects (use the treatment and location data in activity tracking system). Projects should include a variety of ROS class, if available. 

Every 5 years Every 5 Years Moderate Moderate SO-Recreation Staff (Forest Landscape Architect) 28 

14

Are heritage sites being protected? Effectiveness of heritage protection measures [36 

CFR 219.24(a)(4)] 

Sample field condition assessmetn of sites elibible or listed Natinal Register. 

Annuallly Annually High High Forest and District Archeologist 31
15

Are watersheds maintained (and where necessary restored) to provide resilient and stable conditions to support the quality and quantity of water necessary to protect ecological functions and support intended beneficial uses?

Are State BMPs and Forest Standards being implemented to protect and maintain soil and water resources? [36 CFR 219.27(a)(4), 36 CFR 219.12(k)(2)]

Field inspection of project sites following established monitoring protocol. Results reported annually in M&E Report. Regular coordination with State Forestry Commission occurs for BMP compliance checks to randomly selected sites with perennial, intermittent and channeled ephemeral streams. Annual FAT to Ranger Districts to review some projects within critical areas and conduct any updates on monitoring or reporting proceedures, and updates of improvement plans.

Annual Annual Moderate Moderate to High Forest hydrologist or Forest soil scientist 1, 3 

15

Improve soil and water conditions through stabilization or rehabilitation of actively eroding areas such as gullies, barren areas, abandoned roads or trails, and unstable stream banks. 

Field checks that work was planned, implemented and monitored within normal range of acceptance, and the treatments were effective, mitigation measures installed and where appropriate targets reported in MAR or other reports. Review and comparison of stream conditions and morphology help identify poor and declining conditions where more detailed analysis may be needed. Annual Annual Moderate Moderate to High Forest hydrologist or Forest soil scientist 1 

15

Improve soil productivity on disturbed, low productivity, eroded soils with loblolly and shortleaf pine on the piedmont.

Field checks that work was planned, implemented and monitored within normal range of acceptance, and the treatments were effective and where appropriate reported as part of the Forest MAR targets.

Annual Annual Moderate Moderate to High Forest hydrologist or Forest soil scientist 1, 5 

The instream flows needed to protect stream processes, aquatic and riparian habitats and communities, and recreation and aesthetic values will be determined.

Field inspection of project sites following established monitoring protocol. 

Annual Annual Moderate Moderate to High Forest hydrologis 2 

16

What are the conditions and trends of riparian area, wetland and floodplain functions and values?

Are management strategies in riparian areas adhering to Forest Plan riparian guidelines? Are conditions in riparian areas or corridors providing for soil conservation, associated habitats and necessary shade and cover for aquatic habitats?

Field checks to insure that work was planned, implemented and monitored within normal range of acceptance, treatments were effective and where appropriate reported as part of the Forest MAR targets. BMP's are applied.

Annual Annual Moderate Moderate to High Forest hydrologist, Forest fisheries biologist and/or Forest soil scientist 3, 4 

16

Create and maintain a dense understory within riparian corridors that lack such conditions. Improve structural diversity and composition within the riparian corridor on the piedmont. 

Monitor acres of gap development, regeneration, or canebreak restoration or development withn riparian corridor. 

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Annual Med Med Forest Biologist 4, 8, 9 

16

Acres of Riparian area inventoried for condition (i.e. terrestrial habitat, vegetative composition, woody debris recruitment, invasives)

Terrestrial habitat, hydrologic function, stream PFC, aquatic habitat parameters are recorded. 

Not less than 

once every 5 

years.

Annual High High Forest Silviculturist or Forest Biologist 3, 4, 8, 

17

How do actual outputs and services compare with projected?

Are roads being maintained, constructed or reconstructed to reduce sediment delivery to water

bodies and to provide a transportation system that supplies safe and efficient access for forest users while protecting forest resources. [36 CFR 219.27(a)(10)]

Review and track the miles of national forest system roads existing, compared to the miles maintained to the objective maintenance level: the miles of road improvements, and the miles of classified and unclassified roads decommissioned.

Annually Annual High High Engineering Staff, Forest Hydrologist, Forest Soil Scientist 34 and 3

17

Emphasize high quality forest products on the Piedmont. 

PTSAR report from STARS database. Timber volume offerred through the end of the 4th quarter within the 10B management prescription. 

Annual Annual High High Forest Silviculturist 18 

18

Are silvicultural requirements of the Forest Plan being met?

Are lands being adequately restocked within 5 years of regeneration treatments? [36 CFR 219.27(c)(3)]

Evaluation of PEP reports for plantations, stocking checks for planned natural regeneration

Annual Not less than once every 5 years Med Med Forest Silviculturist 14, 18

19

Are Forest Plan objectives and standards being applied and accomplishing their intended purpose?

Are projects being managed according to requirements and making progress toward achievement of DFC for vegetation? [36 CFR 219.15, 36 CFR 219.27]

Interdsiciplinary review. Sample vegetation management projects to compare vegetation conditions with the Plan DFC, goals and objectives. Review project documents and related EAs/EISs for consistency with the Forest Plan's standards. Results reported annually in M&E Report. Annually Annual Moderate High Forest Planning Staff 
F-1

Appendix F

Possible Outputs and Activities for

the First 10 Years (Average Annual)

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G-1

Appendix G

Mining Proposal Evaluation Process

Under authority of the Mineral Resources on 

Weeks Law Lands Act of March 4, 1917, (the 

function of which was transferred from the 

Secretary of the Agriculture to the Department 

of the Interior by the President’s Reorganization 

Plan 3 of 1946), prospecting permits and leases 

may be issued for hard-rock minerals acquired 

by the United States (FSM 2822.13).

 The first step in this process is for the 

applicant to submit a Prospecting Permit 

Application to the Bureau of Land Management 

(BLM). The application must contain the 

applicant’s or the applicant’s agent’s original 

signature. The application must also include: 

(a) applicant’s name and address, (b) a statement 

of the applicant’s qualifications and holdings, 

(c) a complete and accurate land description, (d) 

three copies of any maps needed to accompany 

the description; and (e) the name of all of 

the commodities for which the applicant is 

applying. Once the application is reviewed 

by BLM, it is sent to the Forest Service, the 

surface management agency, for review and 

consideration. The Forest Service will analyze 

the applicant’s proposal to determine compliance 

with the Forest Land Use Plan, environmental 

requirements, and unsuitability criteria. The 

Forest Service will send out a scooping letter 

to the public requesting comments on the. The 

Forest Service will incorporate any comments 

with the response to BLM giving Forest Service 

approval to prospecting permit with appropriate 

mitigation measures to adequately protect 

surface resources. The Forest Service will 

publish a Decision Memo that Categorically 

Excludes the proposal from further analysis. 

BLM will then approve the prospecting permit 

for a period of two years and can be extended up 

to an additional four years.

 Once the prospecting comes to a successful 

conclusion the permittee can apply for a 

Preference Right Lease Application (PRLA). In 

this process the applicant submits the PRLA, 

data and mining plan to BLM’s Eastern State’s 

Office (ESO) in Springfield, Virginia. The 

PRLA is forwarded to the appropriate Forest 

Service office. BLM then conducts an analysis 

on the data from the applicant’s exploration and 

the PRLA. The appropriate Forest Service office 

reviews the Forest Plan for direction regarding 

mineral-related uses. Considering this direction, 

the appropriate Forest Service office conducts 

an environmental analysis, using procedures 

in FSM 1950, to evaluate what impact the 

proposed action would have on the surface 

resources and other users. The study includes 

and considers the following factors where 

applicable:

1. Statutory authorities

2. Existing and planned uses

3. Dedications

4. Impact on surface resources

5. Damage to watershed

6. Degree of surface disturbance 

and difficulty in restoration.

7. Special values, such as 

wilderness character, 

archeological sites, cultural 

resources (FSM 2361), and 

endangered species habitat

8. Access needs, including system 

roads to be used, reconstructed or 

constructed

9. Term of the lease and probable 

nature of operations

10. Economic considerations, such 

as relative values of minerals and 

surface resources and scarcity of 

and demand for minerals

11. Range of alternatives for 

operations and land used and for 

environmental protection.
G-2

 During this process BLM cooperates with 

the Forest Service on the environmental analysis 

and makes a valuable deposit determination 

based on the information provided by the 

potential lessee. 

 The next step is for the Forest Service to 

make their consent decision and send the lease 

stipulations and plan of operations mitigation 

measures to BLM. 

 BLM then finishes the preparation of their 

environmental analysis with lease stipulations 

and calculates the bond. 

 Both BLM and Forest Service conduct a final 

review and BLM requests the bond and requires 

the Lessee to agree to the lease stipulations and 

plan of operation mitigation measures.

 BLM then issues the lease.

 The lessee cannot commence operations 

until they have complied with all State and local 

requirements.
H-1

Appendix H

Vegetation Management Practices

This appendix describes the most common 

vegetation management practices that are likely 

to be chosen as individual projects are designed 

and implemented on the Sumter, as well as the 

forest types where one could expect them to 

be used. This information complies with CFR 

219.15. Standards and guidelines that apply to 

these practices are found in chapters 2 and 3 of 

the Forest Plan.

 Site-specific treatment choices are made at 

the project level, and are not constrained by 

this Forest Plan appendix.The combinations 

of forest types, stand structures, component 

species, site characteristics, and other conditions 

that could exist throughout the forest are 

extremely variable. 

Silvicultural Systems and 

Associated Harvest Methods

There are three silvicultural systems used to 

provide regulated and sustainable yield of wood 

products for local wood processing facilities on 

the Sumter National Forest.

1. The even-aged silvicultural system is a 

planned sequence of treatments for tending, 

harvesting and re-establishing a stand 

designed to maintain trees composed of a 

single age class in which the range of tree 

ages is usually 20 percent of rotation. This 

system creates a mosaic of single age class 

stands across the lands suitable for timber 

production. Collectively, all age classes are 

present and maintained on lands that are 

suitable for timber production. When a stand 

reaches the appropriate age, often expressed 

as the rotation, a final harvest is scheduled 

to remove most or all of the merchantable 

trees in a stand. Whether all or some of the 

merchantable trees are harvested depends 

on the regeneration method chosen to 

accomplish the management prescription 

objectives. Regeneration, designed to 

replace desired tree species, takes place 

within 5 years after the final harvest. 

Even-aged regeneration harvest 

methods:

a. Seed tree method—All trees 

are harvested except for a 

small number of trees retained 

for seed production. This 

method is designed to produce 

a new stand in fully exposed 

microenvironment. Seed trees 

are usually removed after 

regeneration is established. 

In most cases, snags and any 

existing den trees are left for 

wildlife habitat. 

b. Shelterwood method—Enough 

trees are left to produce 

sufficient shade to produce a 

new age class in a moderated 

microenvironment. The sequence 

of treatments can include three 

types of cuttings: 

 (1) an optional preparatory cut 

to enhance conditions for seed 

production, 

 (2) an establishment cut to 

prepare the seed bed and to create 

a new age class, and 

 (3) a removal cut to release 

established regeneration from 

competition with the overwood. 

Cutting may be done uniformly 

throughout the stand (uniform 
H-2 

shelterwood), in groups or 

patches (group shelterwood), 

or in strips (strip shelterwood). 

In most cases, snags and any 

existing den trees are left for 

wildlife habitat. 

c. Clearcutting method—Essentially 

all merchantable trees are 

harvested, leaving a fully 

exposed microclimate for the 

development of a new stand. 

In most cases, snags and any 

existing den trees are left for 

wildlife habitat. 

Intermediate harvests are made in even-aged 

and two-aged stands between regeneration 

and maturity. These may include:

a. Thinning—A harvest made to reduce 

stand density of trees primarily to 

improve growth, enhance forest 

health, or recover potential mortality. 

b. Improvement cuttings—The removal 

of less desirable trees of any species 

in a stand of poles or larger trees, 

primarily to improve composition 

and quality.

c. Sanitation cuttings—The removal 

of trees to improve stand health by 

stopping or reducing the actual or 

anticipated spread of insects and 

disease. (See stand improvement.)

d. Salvage cuttings—The removal 

of dead trees or trees damaged or 

dying because of injurious agents 

other than competition, to recover 

economic value that would otherwise 

be lost.

2. The two-aged silvicultural system

regenerates and maintains stands with two 

age classes. 

Two-aged regeneration harvest methods:

a. Clearcutting with reserves—A 

clearcutting in which varying 

numbers of reserve trees are not 

harvested to attain goals other 

than regeneration.

b. Seed tree with reserves—Some or 

all of the seed trees are retained 

after regeneration has become 

established to attain goals other 

than regeneration.

c. Shelterwood with reserves—

Some or all of the shelter trees 

are retained after regeneration 

has become established to attain 

goals other than regeneration.

3. The uneven-aged silvicultural system is a 

planned sequence of treatments for tending, 

harvesting and re-establishing a stand and 

maintaining trees in three or more age 

classes. 

Uneven-aged regeneration harvest 

methods:

a. Single tree selection—Individual 

trees of several size classes are 

removed more or less uniformly 

throughout the stand to promote 

growth of remaining trees and to 

provide space for regeneration.

b. Group selection—Trees are 

removed and new age classes 

are established in small 

groups. The width of groups is 

commonly no more than twice 

the height of the mature trees 

with smaller openings providing 

microenvironments suitable 

for shade tolerant regeneration 

and larger openings providing 

conditions suitable for shade 
H-3

intolerant regeneration. Thinning 

may also be done between groups 

as part of the harvest.

 Coppice methods, which achieve the majority 

of regeneration from stump sprouts or root 

suckers, are not addressed here since strict 

coppice methods have not historically been 

in substantial use on the Sumter. However, 

stump sprouts are an important component of 

regeneration for most hardwood types and can 

be important for shortleaf pine and pitch pine 

under certain conditions. Advance regeneration 

of seedlings is also very important in many 

hardwood types, and can play a role in the 

regeneration of conifer types as well. 

Application of Silvicultural 

Systems and Harvest Methods

Because most of the desired forest types are 

composed of tree species that range from shade 

intolerant to intermediate in shade tolerance, 

even-aged and two-aged silvicultural systems 

will probably be applied in most places. As 

stated above, group selection can be adapted for 

shade intolerant species also. While single tree 

selection has been used with success in loblolly 

pine—shortleaf pine forests, it does present 

some challenges discussed later in this appendix. 

 Seed tree and shelterwood harvests are the 

regeneration harvest methods that will probably 

be most commonly applied across the forest. 

These systems can meet most visual quality 

needs.

 Clearcutting or clearcutting with reserves 

will most likely be applied where a forest type 

conversion is desired, and the seed source for 

an existing species, such as loblolly pine or 

Virginia pine, needs to be removed. 

 Two aged systems will probably be applied 

in areas of high visual sensitivity such as near 

trails. How many reserve trees must be left 

before a stand is considered two-aged can be 

a fine distinction. Oak, hickory and den trees 

will typically be kept as reserve trees in most 

regeneration harvests. 

 Uneven-aged systems are most likely to be 

used in areas of high visual sensitivity. Their use 

presents some challenges to consider.

1. Harvest equipment. Most harvesters 

are designed for either large or small 

material, but not both. Saw head 

harvesters can also present problems 

with the saw head mowing down sapling 

size trees that comprise the youngest age 

classes.

2. Economics.

a. Relatively low volumes per 

acre increase purchasers’ costs. 

This decreases revenue from 

such sales and makes them less 

attractive to purchasers. Because 

of this one cost factor, stands in 

which uneven-aged regeneration 

harvest is planned should 

generally have the following 

characteristics: 

(1) Slopes operable by ground 

skidding equipment (reason—

permit more cost effective ground 

based tree felling and skidding 

operation).

(2) Close proximity to existing 

system roads (reason—minimize 

purchaser’s need to build roads 

for log removal).

(3) Substantial stand size. Larger 

than 60 acres is best (reason—so 

the sale of the wood products will 

have sufficient total volume to 

permit the purchaser to make a 

profit).

b. Mixed product sizes. Harvest 

through all diameter classes (in 

single tree selection) results in 
H-4 

separate products for purchasers 

to market. Markets for smaller 

trees are weak in parts of the 

Sumter. Individual purchasers 

usually supply either large tree 

markets or small tree markets.

c. Time and cost of intensive 

inventories. Detailed stand 

inventories are needed to 

apply the single tree selection 

method. Additional time and 

cost are substantial. With limited 

personnel and budget, these are 

important factors.

d. Hardwood control in pine stands. 

With an uneven-aged structure, 

shortleaf pine and loblolly pine 

stands can only carry a limited 

hardwood component and still 

have enough sunlight to produce 

successful regeneration. This can 

require hardwood control most 

cutting cycles, perhaps every 

cutting cycle.

e. More frequent entries increase 

the cost for marking and sale 

administration.

3. Shade tolerance of desired forest types. 

As already stated, most of the desired 

forest types on the Sumter National 

Forest are composed of tree species 

that are shade intolerant to intermediate 

in shade tolerance. These species are 

better adapted to even-aged or two-aged 

silvicultural systems.

4. Stand tending in group selection. 

Tracking groups runs counter to the 

philosophy behind group selection, and 

turns it into even-aged management 

on a micro scale. It also presents 

difficulties with service contracts for site 

preparation, release, or other activities. 

Therefore, one hopes that stand tending 

treatments will not be necessary, and 

accepts the species composition and 

yields of untended groups.

 Thinning is likely to be applied in most 

forest types. It is usually visually benign, and 

can often improve visual quality. One specific 

application of thinning will be applied that has 

not been in previous use on the Sumter. This 

is in the development of woodland conditions. 

The purpose of such a thinning is to create very 

open forests with low tree densities. These will 

be associated with the use of prescribed fire to 

create and maintain herbaceous understories. 

Woodland conditions will be sought most often 

in management prescription 8B2, but also in 

management prescriptions 7E2, 8A1, and 9G2 

and perhaps others.

 Salvage harvest will probably be most 

associated with southern pine beetle outbreaks. 

This may occur in any place where there is 

host type, and the management prescription 

does not prohibit salvage harvest. Salvage is 

also common after wind events. It may also be 

applied after severe ice storms or other events 

that cause enough mortality or damage to 

warrant salvage harvest.

Silviculture by Forest Type

Silviculture is discussed by forest type instead of 

community types because species composition 

varies more widely by community type than by 

forest type. This species composition defines the 

regeneration requirements that are needed.

Silviculture in loblolly pine forest types—

Loblolly pine is the most extensive forest type 

on the Sumter National Forest. In the piedmont, 

the most likely regeneration method is the 

seed tree method, especially in management 

prescription 10B. Anticipated site preparation 

for these sites is mechanical drum chopping. 

In areas of very high visual concern, either 

shelterwood or shelterwood with reserves may 

be used. Herbicide foliar sprays may commonly 
H-5

be used to release loblolly pine, oak, and hickory 

seedlings. Precommercial thinning will be 

needed in some stands that become very densely 

stocked with seedlings.

 Oak and hickory canopy trees will commonly 

be retained, as will wildlife den trees. 

 In most piedmont management prescriptions, 

thinning will be used to maintain moderate stand 

densities (less than 100 square feet per acre 

basal area) to reduce susceptibility to southern 

pine beetle attack and to encourage development 

of larger diameter trees.

 In the piedmont 8B2 management 

prescription, heavy thinning will be applied to 

many stands to achieve very open woodland 

conditions. Such thinning and associated 

practices were discussed above.

 In the 9G2 management prescription, 

hardwood and mixed pine and hardwood 

stands are desired. If advance oak and 

hickory regeneration is present, clearcutting 

or clearcutting with reserves may be used to 

release this advanced regeneration and limit 

the seed source for future/additional loblolly 

pine seedlings. Most stands, however, are 

not expected to have adequate advance oak 

and hickory regeneration. If it is not present, 

thinning may be used to achieve stand densities 

that provide enough sunlight to encourage these 

species in the understory. 

 In the mountains, loblolly pine is outside 

its native range. These stands will be replaced 

with shortleaf pine, pitch pine, oak, hickory, 

permanent openings, or some combination of 

these. Clearcutting or clearcutting with reserves 

may be the most common method used to 

remove all of the loblolly pine. If desired species 

are already present as a component of the 

current stands, they will remain.

Silviculture in shortleaf pine and pitch pine 

forest types—In the mountains, even-aged and 

two-aged silvicultural systems are most suitable 

to regenerate shortleaf pine and pitch pine forest 

types. This is because both of these species are 

intolerant of shade. Anticipated site preparation 

methods are felling of unwanted residual trees 

and/or herbicide application to seedling through 

pole size tree species other than shortleaf pine, 

pitch pine, oak or hickory. Since seed crops are 

irregular, and not dependable for any given year, 

planting may be needed, or site preparation may 

need to be repeated. Otherwise, regeneration 

harvest could convert such sites to hardwood 

types. These species may often be managed 

together with oak and hickory species as 

mixed forest types. After establishment, release 

with herbicide may be a common practice. 

Thinning may be used to maintain moderate 

stand densities of less than 100 square feet per 

acre basal area. This will reduce susceptibility 

to southern pine beetle attack and encourage 

development of larger diameter trees.

 In the mountains, shortleaf pine/pitch pine 

types are appropriate forest types to establish 

woodland conditions, as described previously.

 In the piedmont, shortleaf pine is desired 

on sites where it is not likely to be affected by 

littleleaf disease. On some sites, loblolly pine 

stands may be converted to shortleaf pine, or 

possibly a mixture of shortleaf pine with oak 

and/or hickory. Such sites must be carefully 

selected. Soils on these sites must be well 

drained. Otherwise littleleaf disease is likely 

to take a severe toll on the species. Clay soils, 

including typical red clay eroded soils, are 

not appropriate sites for establishing shortleaf 

pine in the piedmont. On piedmont sites being 

converted from loblolly pine forest types, 

clearcutting or clearcutting with reserves will 

probably be used to remove all of the loblolly 

pine in a stand and limit that seed source. 

Silviculture in Virginia pine forest types—

Virginia pine is a common species in the 

southern Appalachians. It usually occupies sites 

that are well suited to shortleaf pine and pitch 

pine, two species that are much less abundant in 

southern Appalachian forests than in years past. 

Therefore, Virginia pine stands of merchantable 

size may commonly be targeted for conversion 

to shortleaf pine and/or pitch pine, retaining oak 

or hickory that may be present. In these stands a 

sequence of treatments will be needed to ensure 
H-6 

Virginia pine seedlings have been eliminated, 

because it tends to regenerate prolifically. This 

sequence would typically be to: (1) harvest the 

Virginia pine, (2) fell unwanted residual trees, 

and then (3) spray all Virginia pine seedlings 

with herbicide, as well as seedlings/sprouts 

of any other undesired tree species. Unevenaged methods would discriminate well against 

Virginia pine, but they are not the best suited 

methods for the species that are desired to 

replace Virginia pine: typically shortleaf pine, 

pitch pine, oak or hickory. 

 Where Virginia pine is desired in the 

regenerated stand, clearcutting or clearcutting 

with reserves are the best methods because 

Virginia pine is a shallow rooted species subject 

to wind throw. It is produces seed almost every 

year and is intolerant of shade. Other evenaged or two-aged methods would work, but the 

remaining Virginia pine canopy trees would 

have a substantial probability of being blown 

over.

 For the same reasons, any thinning done in 

Virginia pine should not open such stands too 

much, or wind throw could likely result.

Silviculture in oak-hickory forest types—

Advance regeneration is the key to regenerating 

oak and hickory forest types. This makes 

categorizing regeneration methods for these 

types difficult. Even-aged and two-aged 

methods are the most appropriate however, 

because oaks and hickories are generally 

intermediate in shade tolerance and do not 

reproduce well in their own shade. Herbicide 

release may be needed to favor oak and hickory 

seedlings over less desired competing tree 

species.

 Thinning can be important in these stands 

for two reasons. First, oak and hickory trees 

need large, well-developed crowns to produce 

substantial quantities of hard mast. Individual 

trees must have adequate space to develop such 

crowns. Second, dense stands do not allow 

enough sunlight to the forest floor to encourage 

the establishment of advance regeneration.

Silviculture in eastern white pine forest 

types—Silviculture in these forest types 

depends on whether eastern white pine is desired 

in regenerated stands or not. Where it is not, best 

results will be obtained by harvest of all eastern 

white pine in a given stand to limit the available 

source of seed. 

 Where white pine is desired in a regenerated 

stand, almost any regeneration method can be 

made to work. This is because white pine is 

shade tolerant and thus suited to uneven-aged 

methods, but also fast growing enough that 

even-aged systems tend to work well. 

Silviculture in yellow-poplar forest types—On 

the Sumter National Forest, yellow-poplar 

is most often found growing together with 

other species. Its seed can remain viable in 

the forest floor for 4-7 years. This stored seed 

and yellow-poplar’s very fast growth habit 

make even-aged and two-aged regeneration 

methods most appropriate for use where this 

species is desired. Because of the seed stored 

in the forest floor, no overstory trees are needed 

for regeneration. They may be retained for 

aesthetic reasons, however, for habitat needs, or 

to continue growing if they are still relatively 

young. Where other species are desired in the 

regenerated stand, yellow-poplar must be treated 

(most effectively with herbicide) if other species 

are to have much chance of competing. Yellowpoplar is so aggressive and fast growing that 

even though it is classified as shade intolerant, it 

can sometimes become established in relatively 

small canopy gaps. 

Silviculture in bottomland hardwood forest 

types—Most of these areas fall into the 

management prescription 11, riparian corridors. 

Anticipated harvest in this forest type is mainly 

to produce canopy gaps or to restore canebrakes. 

 Harvests to provide canopy gaps will most 

likely be either group selection or thinning. 

These are expected to be adjacent to and 

concurrent with other harvests in upland stands 

so that they can be commercially feasible. 
H-7

These harvests should favor retention of mast 

producing species. 

 With canebrakes, the preferred harvest 

is generally a sequence of thinnings until 

approximately 20 square feet per acre or less 

basal area remains. Prescribed fire is needed 

approximately once every 10 years.

Silviculture in eastern hemlock forest types—

Harvest operations are not anticipated because 

of the threat to this species from hemlock woolly 

adelgid, and because much of this forest type is 

in riparian areas. 

Site Preparation, Reforestation, and Stand 

Improvement Methods 

All site preparation methods are available for 

use on the Forest. These include, but may not 

be limited to mechanical methods, prescribed 

fire, manual methods and herbicide use. Many 

of these have been discussed under the previous 

section of this appendix. Limitations on these 

methods are found in standards in chapters 2 and 

3 in this Forest Plan.

 Planting is anticipated mainly in:

1. Areas being converted from loblolly pine 

to shortleaf pine and/or pitch pine

2. Regeneration of shortleaf pine, pitch 

pine, or table mountain pine stands in the 

mountains.

3. Areas being converted from Virginia 

pine to shortleaf pine or pitch pine.

4. Salvage areas of sufficient size 

(larger than 5 or 10 acres) that natural 

regeneration may not be sufficient.

5. Gullied areas that are being restored to 

reduce erosion and sedimentation.

 The primary methods of stand improvement 

are expected to be release, precommercial 

thinning, and fertilization. Release is a treatment 

designed to free young trees from undesirable, 

usually overtopping, competing vegetation. 

Precommercial thinning is the removal of trees 

not for immediate financial return, but to reduce 

stocking to concentrate growth on the more 

desirable trees.

 Release and precommercial thinning have 

been addressed in the previous section, and 

may be applied in circumstances not already 

mentioned. Selective application of herbicides 

will probably be the method used to accomplish 

most release work.This activity is most useful 

in shaping the species composition of individual 

stands. Fertilization for stand improvement is 

principally done in loblolly pine stands after a 

first thinning. Soil fertility is a key ecosystem 

component that was much reduced on many 

eroded piedmont farm lands before they became 

National Forest lands.

Other Vegetation Management 

Practices 

Prescribed fire is used to reduce hazardous fuel 

accumulations and to manipulate vegetative 

communities. Many plant species on the forest 

are fire adapted to some degree. Some are 

perhaps fire dependent. 

 Herbicides will be the primary means of 

controlling non-native invasive plants. There 

are a wide variety of these plants in a wide 

variety of places across the forest. In some 

circumstances pulling can be effective, but in 

most cases it is important to kill all of the root 

tissue of these species.

 The vegetation in wildlife openings will be 

maintained by a number of methods. These 

may include prescribed fire, mowing, disking, 

herbicide application, chain saw use or tree 

grinding. 

 In regeneration areas, snags (dead trees) are 

sometimes lacking.These are sometimes created 

by either cut surface application of herbicide, or 

by girdling.

 Fertilization will be used in conjunction with 

seeding done for erosion control and wildlife 

habitat enhancement. It may also be used for 

soil/water improvement to increase the growth 

of understory plants, reducing runoff and 

erosion. 
H-8

 Utility companies must maintain their 

rights-of-way across National Forest lands 

so that trees do not interfere with their 

management.This is generally accomplished 

either by herbicide application, or by 

mowing.

 Dams and dikes need to be kept 

relatively free of trees and other woody 

vegetation.That is because their roots 

weaken the structures, and create pore spaces 

through which water can begin to move 

through the dam or dike. This vegetation 

control is accomplished most effectively 

with herbicide application.

 Ponds and lakes sometimes develop 

populations of aquatic weeds that need 

control. Such control is accomplished by 

herbicide application.

Mesic deciduous forest on the piedmont.
The portions of the Chattooga River open to boating are divided into four sections. (Please refer to

the following map.) Section I is the West Fork of the Chattooga River in Georgia ending at the main

river channel. Section II begins at the Highway 28 Bridge and ends at Earl’s Ford. Section III begins

at Earl’s Ford and ends at the Highway 76 Bridge. Section IV begins at the Highway 76 Bridge and

ends at Lake Tugaloo. The uses of the river are regulated by section, season, water level and type of

use (commercial and private). These are further discussed as standards within management

prescription 2A in Chapter 3.

Appendix I

 Resource Maps
I - 2 

!"2 8

!"276

!"2 8

!"7 6

Burrells Ford Bridge

Highway 28 Bridge

Bull Pen Road Bridge

Ellicot Rock 

Wilderness

Grimshawes Bridge

Section IV

Section III

Section II

Section I

No Floating

Above

Hwy 28

N.C.

Ga.

S.C.

Chattooga Wild and Scenic

River Corridor

N

W E

S

1 0 1 2 3 4 Miles

c:\gis\projects\planning\feis_chattooga.apr

October 24, 2003

Open to Boating

No Floating Above Hwy 28

Closed to Boating

Section 1

Section 2

Section 3

Section 4

Ownership

Sumter National Forest

Private Lands

Wilderness

Roads

Interstate Highway

US Highway or Route

State Highway

Forest Highway

Chatooga River

Legend

Disclaimer:

The Forest Service uses the most current and complete data available. GIS data and product accuracy may vary.

They may be: developed from sources of differing accuracy, accurate only at certain scales, based on modeling or 

interpretation, incomplete while being created or revised, etc. Using GIS products for purposes other than those

for which they were created, may yield inaccurate or misleading results. The Forest Service reserves the right

to correct, update, modify, or replace, GIS products without notification. For more information, contact:

 GIS Coordinator

 USDA Forest Service

 Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests

 4931 Broad River Road

 Columbia, SC 29212

 (803) 561-4031

If this map contains contours, these contours were generated and filtered using the Digital Elevation Model(DEM)

files. Any contours generated from DEM's using a scale of less than 1:100,000 will lead to less reliable results and should

be used for display purposes only.
I - 3 

Salem

Walhalla

Seneca

Westminster

/

(7 6

!"2 8

#

Tamassee Creek

#

Cedar Creek

#

Brasstown Creek

#

Chauga River

#

Crane Creek

#

East Fork of

Chattooga River

Eligible Wild and Scenic Rivers

on the

Andrew Pickens Ranger District

Sumter National Forest

1 0 1 2 Miles

October 22, 2003

Eligible Wild and Scenic River

Ownership

National Forest

Private Lands

Water

Cities and Towns

Roads and Highways

Interstate Highway

US Highway or Route

State Highway

Forest Highway

Legend
I - 4 

Greenwood

Abbeville

Edgefield

McCormick

ls

Mount Carmel

Troy

T

Ninety Six

Chappe

Parksville

Plum Branch

North Augusta

.,-

2 0

/

(2 5

/(

1 78

/

(

378

/(

7 2

/

(

221

/

(2 8

#

Turkey Creek

#

Stevens Creek

Eligible Wild and Scenic Rivers 

on the

Long Cane Ranger District

Sumter National Forest

1 0 1 2 Miles

October 22, 2003

Eligible Wild and Scenic River

Ownership

National Forest

Private Lands

Water

Cities and Towns

Roads and Highways

Interstate Highway

US Highway or Route

State Highway

Forest Highway

Legend