[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 225 (Wednesday, November 22, 2006)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 67712-67754]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 06-9194]



[[Page 67711]]

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Part II





Department of the Interior





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Fish and Wildlife Service



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50 CFR Part 17



Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical 
Habitat for Arenaria ursina (Bear Valley sandwort), Castilleja cinerea 
(ash-gray Indian paintbrush), and Eriogonum kennedyi var. 
austromontanum (southern mountain wild-buckwheat); Proposed Rules

Federal Register / Vol. 71, No. 225 / Wednesday, November 22, 2006 / 
Proposed Rules

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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17

RIN 1018-AU80


Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of 
Critical Habitat for Arenaria ursina (Bear Valley sandwort), Castilleja 
cinerea (ash-gray Indian paintbrush), and Eriogonum kennedyi var. 
austromontanum (southern mountain wild-buckwheat)

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to 
designate critical habitat for Arenaria ursina (Bear Valley sandwort), 
Castilleja cinerea (ash-gray Indian paintbrush), and Eriogonum kennedyi 
var. austromontanum (southern mountain wild-buckwheat) under the 
Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). In total 
approximately 1,511 acres (ac) (611 hectares (ha)) of land in San 
Bernardino County, California, fall within the boundaries of the 
proposed critical habitat designation for these three plant species. 
The majority of the lands within the proposed designation are under 
Federal ownership (1,394 ac (564 ha)); however, some State (4 ac (2 
ha)) and private lands (112 ac (45 ha)) are also included.

DATES: We will accept comments from all interested parties until 
January 22, 2007. We must receive requests for public hearings, in 
writing, at the address shown in the ADDRESSES section by January 8, 
2007.

ADDRESSES: If you wish to comment on the proposed rule, you may submit 
your comments and materials identified by RIN 1018-AU80, by any of the 
following methods:
    (1) You may send comments by electronic mail (e-mail) to 
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#4325347b2025342c202c2e2e262d3730032534306d242c35"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="7c1a0b441f1a0b131f1311111912080f3c1a0b0f521b130a">[email protected]</span></a>. Include ``RIN 1018-AU80'' in the subject line.
    (2) You may fax your comments to Jim Bartel, Field Supervisor, 
Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office at 760-431-9624.
    (3) You may mail or hand-deliver your written comments and 
information to Jim Bartel, Field Supervisor, Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife 
Office, 6010 Hidden Valley Road, Carlsbad, CA 92011.
    (4) You may submit your comments at the Federal eRulemaking Portal, 
http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting 
comments.
    Comments and materials received, as well as supporting 
documentation used in the preparation of this proposed rule, will be 
available for public inspection, by appointment, during normal business 
hours at the Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office at the above address 
(telephone 760-431-9440).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jim Bartel, Field Supervisor, Carlsbad 
Fish and Wildlife Office, at the address or telephone number listed 
under ADDRESSES. Persons who use a telecommunications device for the 
deaf (TDD) may call the Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 
800-877-8339, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Public Comments Solicited

    We intend that any final action resulting from this proposal will 
be as accurate and as effective as possible. Therefore, comments or 
suggestions from the public, other concerned governmental agencies, the 
scientific community, industry, or any other interested party 
concerning this proposed rule are hereby solicited. Comments 
particularly are sought concerning:
    (1) The reasons any habitat should or should not be determined to 
be critical habitat as provided by section 4 of the Act, including 
whether the benefit of designation will outweigh any threats to the 
species due to designation.
    (2) Specific information on the amount and distribution of Arenaria 
ursina, Castilleja cinerea, or Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum 
habitat, and what areas that were occupied at the time of listing that 
contain features essential for the conservation of the species should 
be included in the designation and why, and what areas that were not 
occupied at the time of listing are essential to the conservation of 
the species and why.
    (3) Land use designations and current or planned activities in the 
subject areas and their possible impacts on proposed critical habitat.
    (4) Any foreseeable economic, national security, or other potential 
impacts resulting from the proposed designation and, in particular, any 
impacts on small entities.
    (5) Whether our approach to designating critical habitat could be 
improved or modified in any way to provide for greater public 
participation and understanding, or to assist us in accommodating 
public concerns and comments.
    If you wish to comment, you may submit your comments and materials 
concerning this proposal by any one of several methods (see ADDRESSES). 
Please submit e-mail comments to <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#5f3928673c3928303c3032323a312b2c1f39282c71383029"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="9afceda2f9fcedf5f9f5f7f7fff4eee9dafcede9b4fdf5ec">[email protected]</span></a>. Please 
include ``Attn: RIN 1018-AU80'' in your e-mail subject line and your 
name and return address in the body of your message. If you do not 
receive a confirmation from the system that we have received your 
message, contact us directly by calling our Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife 
Office at phone number 760-431-9440. Please note that comments must be 
received by the date specified in DATES in order to be considered.
    Our practice is to make comments, including names and home 
addresses of respondents, available for public review during regular 
business hours. Individual respondents may request that we withhold 
their names and home addresses, etc., but if you wish us to consider 
withholding this information, you must state this prominently at the 
beginning of your comments. In addition, you must present rationale for 
withholding this information. This rationale must demonstrate that 
disclosure would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of privacy. 
Unsupported assertions will not meet this burden. In the absence of 
exceptional, documentable circumstances, this information will be 
released. We will always make submissions from organizations or 
businesses, and from individuals identifying themselves as 
representatives of or officials of organizations or businesses, 
available for public inspection in their entirety.

Role of Critical Habitat in Actual Practice of Administering and 
Implementing the Act

    Attention to and protection of habitat is paramount to successful 
conservation actions. The role that designation of critical habitat 
plays in protecting habitat of listed species, however, is often 
misunderstood. As discussed in more detail below in the discussion of 
exclusions under section 4(b)(2) of the Act, there are significant 
limitations on the regulatory effect of designation under section 
7(a)(2) of the Act. In brief, (1) designation provides additional 
protection to habitat only where there is a federal nexus; (2) the 
protection is relevant only when, in the absence of designation, 
destruction or adverse modification of the critical habitat would in 
fact take place (in other words, other statutory or regulatory 
protections, policies, or other factors relevant to agency decision-
making would not prevent the destruction or adverse modification); and 
(3) designation of critical habitat triggers the prohibition of 
destruction or adverse modification of that habitat, but it does not 
require

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specific actions to restore or improve habitat.
    Currently, only 476 species, or 36 percent of the 1,311 listed 
species in the United States under the jurisdiction of the Service, 
have designated critical habitat. We address the habitat needs of all 
1,311 listed species through conservation mechanisms such as listing, 
section 7 consultations, the section 4 recovery planning process, the 
section 9 protective prohibitions of unauthorized take, section 6 
funding to the States, the section 10 incidental take permit process, 
and cooperative, nonregulatory efforts with private landowners. The 
Service believes that it is these measures that may make the difference 
between extinction and survival for many species.
    In considering exclusions of areas proposed for designation, we 
evaluate the benefits of designation in light of Gifford Pinchot. In 
that case, the Ninth Circuit invalidated the Service's regulation 
defining ``destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat.'' 
In response, on December 9, 2004, the Director issued guidance to be 
considered in making section 7 adverse modification determinations. 
This proposed critical habitat designation does not use the invalidated 
regulation in our consideration of the benefits of including areas in 
this proposed designation. The Service will carefully manage future 
consultations that analyze impacts to designated critical habitat, 
particularly those that appear to be resulting in an adverse 
modification determination. Such consultations will be reviewed by the 
Regional Office prior to finalizing to ensure that an adequate analysis 
has been conducted that is informed by the Director's guidance.
    On the other hand, to the extent that designation of critical 
habitat provides protection, that protection can come at significant 
social and economic cost. In addition, the mere administrative process 
of designation of critical habitat is expensive, time-consuming, and 
controversial. The current statutory framework of critical habitat, 
combined with past judicial interpretations of the statute, make 
critical habitat the subject of excessive litigation. As a result, 
critical habitat designations are driven by litigation and courts 
rather than biology, and made at a time and under a timeframe that 
limits our ability to obtain and evaluate the scientific and other 
information required to make the designation most meaningful.
    In light of these circumstances, the Service believes that 
additional agency discretion would allow our focus to return to those 
actions that provide the greatest benefit to the species most in need 
of protection.

Procedural and Resource Difficulties in Designating Critical Habitat

    We have been inundated with lawsuits for our failure to designate 
critical habitat, and we face a growing number of lawsuits challenging 
critical habitat determinations once they are made. These lawsuits have 
subjected the Service to an ever-increasing series of court orders and 
court-approved settlement agreements, compliance with which now 
consumes nearly the entire listing program budget. This leaves the 
Service with little ability to prioritize its activities to direct 
scarce listing resources to the listing program actions with the most 
biologically urgent species conservation needs.
    The consequence of the critical habitat litigation activity is that 
limited listing funds are used to defend active lawsuits, to respond to 
Notices of Intent to sue relative to critical habitat, and to comply 
with the growing number of adverse court orders. As a result, listing 
petition responses, the Service's own proposals to list critically 
imperiled species, and final listing determinations on existing 
proposals are all significantly delayed.
    The accelerated schedules of court-ordered designations have left 
the Service with limited ability to provide for public participation or 
to ensure a defect-free rulemaking process before making decisions on 
listing and critical habitat proposals, due to the risks associated 
with noncompliance with judicially imposed deadlines. This in turn 
fosters a second round of litigation in which those who fear adverse 
impacts from critical habitat designations challenge those 
designations. The cycle of litigation appears endless, and is very 
expensive, thus diverting resources from conservation actions that may 
provide relatively more benefit to imperiled species.
    The costs resulting from the designation include legal costs, the 
cost of preparation and publication of the designation, the analysis of 
the economic effects and the cost of requesting and responding to 
public comment, and in some cases the costs of compliance with the 
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.). 
These costs, which are not required for many other conservation 
actions, directly reduce the funds available for direct and tangible 
conservation actions.

Background

    This proposed rule addresses critical habitat for Arenaria ursina 
(Bear Valley sandwort), Castilleja cinerea (ash-gray Indian 
paintbrush), and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum (southern 
mountain wild-buckwheat) because they largely occupy the same habitat, 
referred to as pebble plain habitat. For additional information on the 
biology and ecology of these species, refer to the final rule listing 
them as threatened that was published in the Federal Register on 
September 14, 1998 (63 FR 49006). It is our intention to discuss only 
those topics directly relevant to the designation of critical habitat 
in this proposed rule.

Pebble Plain Habitat

    Pebble plains are characteristically treeless openings surrounded 
by montane pinyon-juniper woodland or coniferous forest. This ``dry 
meadow-like'' habitat, which occurs on clay soils covered with 
quartzite pebbles, is unique to the San Bernardino Mountains of San 
Bernardino County, California. Pebble plains are remnants of a 
Pleistocene lake bed (Derby 1979, pp. 11-14; Krantz 1983, pp. 9-10). 
Pebble plains are the result of a combination of soil and climatic 
factors that support a unique assemblage of plant species, some of 
which are restricted endemics while others represent disjunct 
occurrences of species more common elsewhere (USFS 2002, p. 12).
    Pebble plain vegetation is comprised of various combinations of the 
73 plant taxa recorded from pebble plains (USFS 2002, p. 12). While 
Arenaria ursina and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum were the two 
indicator species that characterized pebble plains when they were first 
described as a unique habitat type (as pavement plains) (Derby 1979, p. 
77), Ivesia argyrocoma (silver-haired ivesia) is also considered a 
strong indicator of pebble plain habitat (USFS 2002, p. 14). Castilleja 
cinerea is nearly restricted to pebble plain habitat but does occur in 
non-pebble plain habitat, such as upper montane coniferous forest, 
meadows, and pinyon-juniper woodland. These non-pebble plain areas lack 
either one or both of the two former indicator species and quartzite 
pebbles or cobbles.
    Each of the three listed pebble plains species has a natural mosaic 
distribution among the various pebble plain complexes. The distribution 
of each plant may change locally over time but generally extends 
throughout a pebble plain complex. The fact that these three plant taxa 
essentially occupy the same habitat is reflected here in the

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description and mapping of the critical habitat units and subunits. In 
a study on the distribution of pebble plain plant species within three 
pebble plains in the San Bernardino Mountains, Derby (1979, p. 77-78) 
concluded that, while perennial plant species present on pebble plains 
tend toward evenly spaced overall distributions, some perennial 
species, including Arenaria ursina and Castilleja cinerea, are 
restricted to microhabitat niches within the habitat (such as on 
northwest exposures). Each of the pebble plain complexes identified by 
the Forest Service supports all three of the pebble plain species with 
five exceptions: Coxey Meadow, Rattlesnake, Grinnell Ridge, Snow 
Valley, and Sugarloaf Ridge (USFS 2002). Coxey Meadow and Rattlesnake 
complexes do not support any of the three listed species and are not 
proposed as critical habitat. Grinnell Ridge and Snow Valley complexes 
support only C. cinerea. Grinnell Ridge is not considered in this 
proposed designation because the area was last surveyed in 1994 and we 
are unable to determine whether the mapped area represents the species 
occurrence or the pebble plain boundary (Eliason 2006b, p. 1). Of the 
five pebble plain complexes mentioned above, only two, Snow Valley and 
Sugarloaf Ridge, are being proposed as critical habitat for C. cinerea 
and A. ursina , respectively.
    Pebble plain complexes were first described and delineated by Neal 
and Barrows (1990, p. 11) who grouped pebble plains that were clearly 
clustered and isolated from other complexes and presumed to have 
comparable origins. According to the final listing rule, nine pebble 
plain complexes were described at that time (Neel and Barrows 1990, pp. 
1-33): Arrastre/Union Flat, Big Bear Lake, Coxey Meadow, Gold Mountain, 
Holcomb Valley, North Baldwin Lake Onyx Ridge/Broom Flat, Sawmill, and 
South Baldwin Ridge/Erwin Lake. The final listing rule also discussed 
pebble plains in the Lost Creek area (within the area now referred to 
as the Grinnell Ridge Complex) and the Snow Valley Ski area (within the 
area now referred to as Snow Valley Complex). The Grinnell Ridge and 
Snow Valley areas were named as pebble plain complexes in 2002 (USFS 
2002, p. 30, 53). Of the 11 complexes discussed in the listing rule, 
all except Coxey Meadow were known to be occupied at that time (Table 
1).
    Each of the three listed species was known to occur in the 1970s, 
prior to the time of listing, on pebble plains within the area now 
referred to as the Fawnskin Complex (CNDDB 1997a, 1997b, 1997c) 
(<greek-i>12 in Table 1). While this area was not identified in the 
final listing rule, we consider it to be occupied at the time of 
listing based on pre-listing occupancy records in our files. Since 
listing, two other pebble plain complexes have been identified and 
mapped--Rattlesnake and Sugarloaf Ridge (USFS 2002, p. 57, 66) 
(<greek-i>13 and <greek-i>14, respectively, in Table 1). However, only 
the Sugarloaf Ridge complex is known to be occupied by the species 
discussed in this proposed rule.

Species Descriptions

Arenaria ursina (Bear Valley sandwort)

    Arenaria ursina is a low tufted perennial plant in the 
Caryophyllaceae (pink) family. A. ursina produces seeds by selfing 
(self-pollinating) and entomophilous (insect-mediated) outcrossing 
(O'Brien 1979, p. 80). The seeds of Arenaria ursina are flat, 
reticulate, measure 2 millimeters (mm) (0.079 inches (in)) long, remain 
in open erect capsules for up to 2 months, and can bounce out of the 
capsule in a strong wind (O'Brien 1979, p. 81). Small syrphid flies and 
bees appear to be the primary insect pollinators for this species 
(O'Brien 1979, p. 82; Freas and Murphy 1990, p. 6). However, Freas and 
Murphy (1990, pp. 7, 8) state that there is no evidence indicating that 
either wind- or pollinator-mediated dispersal plays a role in gene flow 
between pebble plain sites. Therefore, it appears that species 
persistence in each pebble plain is regulated by internal processes.
    Arenaria ursina is found on pebble plains and dry slopes in pinyon 
and juniper woodland in the northeastern San Bernardino Mountains (63 
FR 49006; September 14, 1998). A. ursina has one of the most restricted 
ranges of any of the pebble plain restricted endemic plants, second 
only to Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum. A. ursina exhibits a 
patchy distribution within pebble plains and appears to prefer areas 
with low levels of shade and leaf litter accumulation (Derby 1979, p. 
42). Species associated with A. ursina include E. k. var. 
austromontanum, Antennaria dimorpha, Arabis parishii, Dudleya abramsii 
spp. affinis, and Ivesia argyrocoma (USFS 2002, p. 17).
    According to the final listing rule, Arenaria ursina was known from 
eight pebble plain complexes in the vicinity of Big Bear and Baldwin 
Lakes (63 FR 49006). This species was also known to occur in the 1970s, 
prior to the time of listing, on pebble plains within the area now 
referred to as the Fawnskin Complex (CNDDB 1997a). As stated above, 
while this area was not identified in the final listing rule, we 
consider it to be occupied at the time of listing based on pre-listing 
occupancy records. Currently, A. ursina is known to occupy 10 pebble 
plain complexes in the vicinity of Big Bear and Baldwin Lakes (USFS 
2002, p. 90). This occupancy includes the Sugarloaf Ridge complex, 
which was found to be occupied by this species about 3 years ago, after 
the 2002 Pebble Plain Management Guide was finalized (Eliason 2006a, p. 
1).

  Table 1.--Pebble Plain Complexes in the San Bernardino Mountains, California, Occupied at the Time of Listing
(OTL), Currently Occupied (CO), or not Known To Be Occupied at the Time of Listing or Currently (NO) for Each of
                                      the Three Listed Pebble Plain Species
                                  [Pebble plain complex names follow USFS 2002]
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                                                                            Castilleja       Eriogonum kennedy
                                 Pebble plain complex   Arenaria ursina       cinerea       var. austromontanum
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1.............................  Arrastre/Union Flat..  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO
2.............................  Big Bear Lake........  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO
3.............................  Coxey Meadow.........  NO..............  NO..............  NO
4.............................  Gold Mountain........  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO
5.............................  Holcomb Valley.......  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO
6.............................  North Baldwin Lake...  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO
7.............................  Broom Flat (Onyx       OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO.........  CO
                                 Ridge).
8.............................  Sawmill..............  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO
9.............................  South Baldwin Ridge/   OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO
                                 Erwin Lake.
10............................  Grinnell Ridge.......  ................  OTL.............

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11............................  Snow Valley..........  ................  OTL, CO.........
12............................  Fawnskin.............  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO.........  OTL, CO
13............................  Rattlesnake..........  NO..............  NO..............  NO
14............................  Sugarloaf Ridge......  CO..............  CO..............
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Castilleja cinerea (ash-gray paintbrush)

    Castilleja cinerea is a semi-parasitic perennial in the 
Scrophulariaceae (figwort) family. Recent taxonomic studies (Olmstead 
et al. 2001, p. 350) have placed the genus Castilleja and other plant 
genera formerly in the Scrophulariaceae into the Orobanchaceae 
(broomrape) family. This proposed rule includes a change to the list of 
Endangered and Threatened Plants at 50 CFR 17.12(h) to reflect this 
taxonomic change. This taxonomic change was explained by Olmstead 
(2002, pp. 13-22) and is accepted here.
    Known hosts for this root-parasite in pebble plain habitat include 
Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum, E. k. var. kennedyi, E. 
wrightii var. subscaposum, and in non-pebble plain meadow margin 
habitat include Artemisia tridentata, A. nova, and A. ludoviciana (USFS 
2002, p. 92). All Castilleja species are parasitic, and this species is 
distinguished from other Castilleja in its range by short-haired stems 
and leaves, yellowish flowers, calyx lobes of equal length, and 
perennial nature (63 FR 49006; September 14, 1998).
    The seeds of Castilleja cinerea are loosely held in the open erect 
capsules, taking about a month to fall onto the ground after 
maturation. The dispersal agent (such as wind or foraging animals) for 
this species is unknown. Moreover, seeds are the product of self-
pollinating outcrossing (O'Brien 1979, p. 67), and insect visitation 
does not appear significant for Castilleja species (Duffield 1972, pp. 
110-114; O'Brien 1979, p. 69; Freas and Murphy 1990, p. 6).
    Castilleja cinerea is usually found on pebble plain habitat, but 
also occurs in other habitats including upper montane coniferous 
forest, meadows, and pinyon-juniper woodland (USFS 2002, pp. 17, 92). 
Species associated with C. cinerea on pebble plain habitat include 
Artemisia nova, Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum, Erigeron 
aphanactis (fleabane daisy), and Poa secunda ssp. secunda (pine 
bluegrass) (USFS 2002, p. 17).
    According to the final listing rule (63 FR 49006; September 14, 
1998), Castilleja cinerea was known from fewer than 20 localities, 
mostly on pebble plains, but also from several localities in pine 
forest habitats near the Snow Valley Ski area, along Sugarloaf Ridge 
(part of the Sawmill Complex), and in the vicinity of Lost Creek 
(within the area now referred to as the Grinnell Ridge Complex). This 
species was also known in the 1970s, prior to the time of listing, to 
occur on pebble plains within the area now referred to as the Fawnskin 
Complex and in non-pebble plain meadow margin habitat adjacent to Big 
Bear and Baldwin lakes (CNDDB 1997b). While these areas were not 
identified in the final listing rule, we consider them to be occupied 
at the time of listing based on pre-listing occupancy records in our 
files (CNDDB 1997b). This species is now known to occur in 11 pebble 
plain complexes (see Table 1 above) and several non-pebble plain 
habitat areas (USFS 2002, p. 92). The 11 pebble plain complexes include 
the Sugarloaf Ridge Complex, which was found to be occupied by this 
species about 3 years ago, after the 2002 Pebble Plain Management Guide 
was finalized (Eliason 2006a, p. 1). While the pebble plain in the 
Grinnell Ridge Complex was known to be occupied by Castilleja cinerea 
at the time of listing (Table 1), the area was last surveyed in 1994 
and we are unable to determine whether the mapped area represents the 
species occurrence or the pebble plain boundary (Eliason 2006b, p. 1). 
Additional information is needed for us to determine if this area 
should be considered currently occupied by this species.
    Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum (southern mountain wild-
buckwheat)
    Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum is a woody-based, cushion-
like, perennial plant in the Polygonaceae (buckwheat family). This 
species is often confused with E. k. var. kennedyi, E. k. var. 
alpigenum, or E. wrightii spp. subscaposum, but it can be distinguished 
from these taxa by its longer, unbranched flower stalks, leaves, 
fruits, and involucres (63 FR 49006; USFS 2002, pp. 93-94).
    Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum produces seeds by self-
pollinating and insect-mediated outcrossing (O'Brien 1979, p. 97). 
Numerous types of wasps, bees, and flies have been recorded as 
pollinators on this plant (O'Brien 1979, p. 99; Freas and Murphy 1990, 
p. 6). This species produces single-seeded fruits, the majority of 
which remain at the base of the parent plant after falling off (O'Brien 
1979, p. 99). While Freas and Murphy (1990, pp. 7, 8) detected seeds of 
either E. k. var austromontanum or E. k. var. kennedyi in seed traps 
placed along pebble plain-forest edges, they state that there is no 
evidence indicating that either wind- or pollinator-mediated dispersal 
plays a role in gene flow between pebble plain sites. Therefore, it 
appears that species persistence in each pebble plain is regulated by 
internal processes.
    Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum has the most restricted 
range of any of the pebble plain restricted endemic plants, although it 
may be the dominant plant on pebble plains where it occurs. It was one 
of the taxa identified as characteristic of the unique pebble plain 
habitat first described by Derby (1979, p. 32). Although this taxon 
typically occupies clay soils with pebbles or cobbles, E. k. var. 
austromontanum also occurs on sandy, clay soils (e.g., Burnt Flat) or 
clay soils lacking pebbles or cobbles (e.g., areas at North Baldwin 
Lake) (USFS 2002, p. 94). This species prefers areas with low levels of 
shade and leaf litter accumulation (Derby 1979, p. 42).
    Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum was known from seven pebble 
plain complexes at the time of listing (63 FR 49006; September 14, 
1998) (see Table 1 above). This species was also known in the 1970s, 
prior to the time of listing, to occur on

[[Page 67716]]

pebble plains within the area now referred to as the Fawnskin Complex 
(CNDDB 1997c). As stated above, while this area was not identified in 
the final listing rule, we consider it to be occupied at the time of 
listing based on pre-listing occupancy records in our files (CNDDB 
1997c). The species is now known to occur in nine pebble plain 
complexes (see Table 1 above) including the Broom Flat Complex that was 
not known to be occupied by this species at the time of listing (USFS 
2002, pp. 62, 94). However, the Broom Flat complex was known to be 
occupied by Arenaria ursina and Castilleja cinerea at the time of 
listing.

Threats to Pebble Plain Habitat

    Major threats to the listed pebble plains species include 
development on private lands, off-highway vehicle (OHV) use off of 
designated routes, road maintenance activities, ground disturbance that 
affects surface hydrology, mining activities, recreational activities, 
habitat fragmentation, and the invasion of nonnative Bromus tectorum 
(cheatgrass). See the ``Special Management Considerations or 
Protection'' section for further discussion of the threats to the 
listed pebble plains species.

Previous Federal Actions

    Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. 
austromontanum were federally listed as threatened on September 14, 
1998 (63 FR 49006). These species are not currently listed as 
endangered, threatened, or rare by the State of California. At the time 
these plants were federally listed, the Service compared the value of 
designating critical habitat to the detrimental effects of increased 
collection, vandalism, and other human activities. The Service found, 
based on these factors, that designation of critical habitat for A. 
ursina, C. cinerea, and E. k. var. austromontanum was not prudent. On 
September 13, 2004, the Center for Biological Diversity and the 
California Native Plant Society filed a joint lawsuit challenging the 
Service's failure to designate critical habitat for six California 
plant species, including A. ursina, C. cinerea, and E. k. var. 
austromontanum (Center for Biological Diversity, et al. v. Norton, No. 
ED CV-04-1150 RT (SGLx)). In an April 14, 2005, settlement agreement, 
the Service agreed to submit to the Federal Register a proposed rule to 
designate critical habitat, if prudent, on or before November 9, 2006, 
and a final rule by November 9, 2007. This proposed rule complies with 
the April 14, 2005, settlement agreement.
    We have reconsidered our not prudent finding, and now believe that 
identification of primary constituent elements and essential areas 
(critical habitat designation) may provide educational information to 
individuals, local and State governments, and other entities. Because 
these species are so limited in their ecological and geographical 
ranges, and many of these pebble plains are adjacent to or bisected by 
classified and unclassified roads, most landowners and collectors have 
been aware of their presence since publication of the final listing 
rule in 1998. We do not have any documentation that over-collection has 
increased significantly since these species were listed and now believe 
that the benefits of identifying essential habitat for these species 
outweighs the potential risk of over-collection.

Critical Habitat

    Critical habitat is defined in section 3 of the Act as--(i) the 
specific areas within the geographical area occupied by a species, at 
the time it is listed in accordance with the Act, on which are found 
those physical or biological features (I) essential to the conservation 
of the species and (II) that may require special management 
considerations or protection; and (ii) specific areas outside the 
geographical area occupied by a species at the time it is listed, upon 
a determination that such areas are essential for the conservation of 
the species. Conservation, as defined under section 3 of the Act means 
to use and the use of all methods and procedures which are necessary to 
bring any endangered species or threatened species to the point at 
which the measures provided pursuant to the Act are no longer 
necessary. Such methods and procedures include, but are not limited to, 
all activities associated with scientific resources management such as 
research, census, law enforcement, habitat acquisition and maintenance, 
propagation, live trapping, and transplantation, and, in the 
extraordinary case where population pressures within a given ecosystem 
cannot be otherwise relieved, may include regulated taking.
    Critical habitat receives protection under section 7 of the Act 
through the prohibition against destruction or adverse modification of 
critical habitat with regard to actions carried out, funded, or 
authorized by a Federal agency. Section 7 requires consultation on 
Federal actions that are likely to result in the destruction or adverse 
modification of critical habitat. The designation of critical habitat 
does not affect land ownership or establish a refuge, wilderness, 
reserve, preserve, or other conservation area. Such designation does 
not allow government or public access to private lands. Section 7 is a 
purely protective measure and does not require implementation of 
restoration, recovery, or enhancement measures.
    To be included in a critical habitat designation, the habitat 
within the area occupied by the species must first have features that 
are essential to the conservation of the species. Critical habitat 
designations identify, to the extent known using the best scientific 
data available, habitat areas that provide essential life cycle needs 
of the species (i.e., areas on which are found the primary constituent 
elements, as defined at 50 CFR 424.12(b)). Habitat occupied at the time 
of listing may be included in critical habitat only if the essential 
features thereon may require special management considerations or 
protection. Areas outside of the geographic area occupied by the 
species at the time of listing may only be included in critical habitat 
if they are essential for the conservation of the species. Accordingly, 
when the best available scientific data do not demonstrate that the 
conservation needs of the species require additional areas, we will not 
designate critical habitat in areas outside the geographical area 
occupied by the species at the time of listing. An area currently 
occupied by the species but not known to be occupied at the time of 
listing will likely, but not always, be essential to the conservation 
of the species and, therefore, typically included in the critical 
habitat designation.
    The Service's Policy on Information Standards Under the Endangered 
Species Act, published in the Federal Register on July 1, 1994 (59 FR 
34271), and Section 515 of the Treasury and General Government 
Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2001 (Pub. L. 106-554; H.R. 5658) 
and the associated Information Quality Guidelines issued by the 
Service, provide criteria, establish procedures, and provide guidance 
to ensure that decisions made by the Service represent the best 
scientific data available. They require Service biologists to the 
extent consistent with the Act and with the use of the best scientific 
data available, to use primary and original sources of information as 
the basis for recommendations to designate critical habitat. When 
determining which areas are critical habitat, a primary source of 
information is generally the listing package for the species. 
Additional

[[Page 67717]]

information sources include the recovery plan for the species, articles 
in peer-reviewed journals, conservation plans developed by States and 
counties, scientific status surveys and studies, biological 
assessments, or other unpublished materials and expert opinion or 
personal knowledge. All information is used in accordance with the 
provisions of Section 515 of the Treasury and General Government 
Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2001 (Pub. L. 106-554; H.R. 5658) 
and the associated Information Quality Guidelines issued by the 
Service.
    Section 4 of the Act requires that we designate critical habitat on 
the basis of the best scientific data available. Habitat is often 
dynamic, and species may move from one area to another over time. 
Furthermore, we recognize that designation of critical habitat may not 
include all of the habitat areas that may eventually be determined to 
be necessary for the recovery of the species. For these reasons, 
critical habitat designations do not signal that habitat outside the 
designation is unimportant or may not be required for recovery.
    Areas that support populations, but are outside the critical 
habitat designation, will continue to be subject to conservation 
actions implemented under section 7(a)(1) of the Act and to the 
regulatory protections afforded by the section 7(a)(2) jeopardy 
standard, as determined on the basis of the best available information 
at the time of the action. Federally funded or permitted projects 
affecting listed species outside their designated critical habitat 
areas may still result in jeopardy findings in some cases. Similarly, 
critical habitat designations made on the basis of the best available 
information at the time of designation will not control the direction 
and substance of future recovery plans, habitat conservation plans, or 
other species conservation planning efforts if new information 
available to these planning efforts calls for a different outcome.

Methods

    As required by section 4(b)(2) of the Act, we use the best 
scientific data available in determining areas that contain the 
features that are essential to the conservation of Arenaria ursina, 
Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum and the 
habitat requirements of these species. These sources included, but were 
not limited to, the proposed (60 FR 39337; August 2, 1995) and final 
(63 FR 49006; September 14, 1998) rules to list these species; data and 
information published in peer-reviewed articles; data and information 
contained in reports prepared for or by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS); 
discussions and site visits with species experts including USFS 
personnel; data and information presented in academic research theses 
and dissertations; data provided by the California Department of Fish 
and Game Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB); herbarium records; data 
submitted during section 7 consultations; and regional Geographic 
Information Systems (GIS) data.

Primary Constituent Elements

    In accordance with section 3(5)(A)(i) of the Act and regulations at 
50 CFR 424.12, in determining which areas to propose as critical 
habitat, we consider those areas occupied by the species at the time of 
listing that contain physical and biological features (primary 
constituent elements or PCEs) that are essential to the conservation of 
the species, and that may require special management considerations or 
protection. These include, but are not limited to, space for individual 
and population growth and for normal behavior; food, water, air, light, 
minerals, or other nutritional or physiological requirements; cover or 
shelter; sites for breeding, reproduction, and rearing of offspring 
germination and seed dispersal; and habitats that are protected from 
disturbance or are representative of the historic geographical and 
ecological distributions of a species.
    The specific primary constituent elements required for Arenaria 
ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum 
are derived from the biological needs described in the Background 
section of this proposal. They include those habitat components 
essential for the biological needs of each species, including seed 
germination and seedling growth, flower production, pollination, fruit 
production and seed set, and genetic exchange.

Space for Individual and Population Growth and Normal Behavior; Food, 
Water, Air, Light, Minerals, or other Nutritional or Physiological 
Requirements

    Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. 
austromontanum require pebble plains or dry meadows in openings within 
upper montane coniferous forest, pinyon'juniper woodlands, or Mojavean 
desert scrub at elevations between 5,900 to 9,800 feet (1,830 to 2,990 
m) for individual and population growth (PCE 1).
    These typically treeless openings are the result of a combination 
of soil and climatic factors that support an assemblage of plant 
species found only in the San Bernardino Mountains, California (USFS 
2002, p. 12). Frost heaving and alternating wet and dry cycles force 
associated quartzite pebbles to the soil surface in areas of shallow 
clay deposits (PCE 2) to create the characteristic appearance of the 
pebble plains (Derby 1979, p. 61; Krantz 1983, p. 10; USFS 2002, p. 
22). These soils have an extremely slow infiltration rate and, thus, 
have a high runoff potential (Neel and Barrows 1990, p. 8).
    The establishment of tree species on pebble plains appears to be 
limited primarily by high clay content in the soil (Derby 1979, p. 74). 
Trees that become established alter the surrounding microhabitat by 
increasing leaf litter and shading and probably reducing temperature 
extremes (USFS 2002, p. 15). The increase in leaf litter under trees 
appears to reduce the densities of all three of the listed pebble 
plains species and increase tree and shrub seedlings under the tree 
canopy (Derby 1979, p. 72). Pebble plain species flourish in their 
specific environment, but they cannot compete with other plant species 
adapted to shaded areas, or areas where heavy litter layers accumulate 
(USFS 2002, p. 15).
    Pebble plains are typified by the presence of one or more of the 
following associated species: Ivesia argyrocoma, Eriogonum kennedyi 
var. kennedyi, Allium parryi, Antennaria dimorpha, Arabis parishii, 
Astragalus purshii var. lectulus, Dudleya abramsii var. affinis, 
Echinocereus engelmannii, Erigeron aphanactis var. congestus, Eriogonum 
wrightii var. subscaposum, Lewisia rediviva var. minor, and Mimulus 
purpureus.
    In addition to pebble plain habitat, Castilleja cinerea is also 
found in dry meadow margin areas that lack either Arenaria ursina and 
Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum or both and quartzite pebbles or 
cobbles. However, as a semi-parasitic perennial plant, this root-
parasite requires host plant species found in pebble plain habitat 
(Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum, E. k. var. kennedyi, and E. 
wrightii var. subscaposumon) and host plant species found in both 
pebble plain and non-pebble plain habitat (Artemisia tridentata, A. 
nova, and E. wrightii var. subscaposumon) for individual and population 
growth and for its nutritional and physiological requirements (PCE 3) 
(USFS 2002, p. 92).

[[Page 67718]]

Sites for Reproduction, Germination, Seed Dispersal, or Pollination

    While pollination (via selfing, wind, or insect) is important for 
maintaining genetic diversity within a pebble plain (Duffield 1972, pp. 
110-114; O'Brien 1979, pp. 67, 82, 97, 99; Freas and Murphy 1990, p. 
6), limited research indicates that little genetic material is 
exchanged among pebble plains (Freas and Murphy 1990, pp. 6-8). 
According to Freas and Murphy (1990, p. 6), observed pollen transfer 
distances were less than 4 meters (13 feet).

Primary Constituent Elements for Arenaria ursina, Eriogonum kennedyi 
var. austromontanum and Castilleja cinerea

    Under our regulations, we are required to identify the known 
physical and biological features (PCEs) essential to the conservation 
of Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. 
austromontanum. All areas proposed as critical habitat for each taxon 
are currently occupied, within the taxon's historical geographic range, 
and contain sufficient PCEs to support at least one life history 
function.
    Based on our current knowledge of the life history, biology, and 
ecology of the species and the requirements of the habitat to sustain 
the essential life history functions of the species, we have determined 
that the PCEs for Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum 
kennedyi var. austromontanum are:
    (1) Pebble plains or dry meadows in openings within upper montane 
coniferous forest, pinyon'juniper woodlands, or Mojavean desert scrub 
in the San Bernardino Mountains of San Bernardino County, California; 
at elevations between 5,900 to 9,800 feet (1,830 to 2,990 m) that 
provide space for individual and population growth, reproduction and 
dispersal; and
    (2) Seasonally wet clay or sandy, clay soils, generally containing 
quartzite pebbles, subject to natural hydrological processes that 
include water hydrating the soil and freezing in winter and drying in 
summer causing lifting and churning of included pebbles, to provide 
adequate water, air, minerals, and other nutritional or physiological 
requirements to the species.
    We have determined that Castilleja cinerea also requires the 
following PCE:
    (3) The presence of one or more of its known host species, such as 
Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum, E. k. var. kennedyi, and E. 
wrightii var. subscaposumon in pebble plain habitat and species such as 
Artemisia tridentata, A. nova, and E. wrightii var. subscaposumon in 
pebble plain and non-pebble plain meadow margin habitat that provide 
some of the physiological requirements for this species.
    This proposed designation is designed for the conservation of those 
areas containing the PCEs necessary to support the life history 
functions that are the basis for the proposal. Because not all life 
history functions require all the PCEs, not all critical habitat will 
contain all the PCEs.
    Units are designated based on sufficient PCEs being present to 
support one or more of the species' life history functions. Some units 
contain all PCEs and support multiple life processes, while some units 
contain only a portion of the PCEs necessary to support the species' 
particular use of that habitat.

Criteria Used To Identify Critical Habitat

    As required by section 4(b)(1)(A) of the Act, we use the best 
scientific and commercial data available in determining areas that 
contain the features that are essential to the conservation of Arenaria 
ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum. 
To delineate the proposed critical habitat boundaries associated with 
habitat occupied by the listed species, we relied on GIS data provided 
by the USFS's San Bernardino National Forest (SBNF). SBNF personnel 
mapped pebble plain and some non-pebble plain habitat on SBNF lands for 
the 2002 Pebble Plain Management Guide using a combination of 1:10,000 
air photos, 1:24,000 orthographic photos, 1:24,000 topographic maps, 
and ground-truthing with global positioning system (GPS) units (USFS 
2002, p. 30). We also worked with SBNF personnel with species and 
habitat expertise to determine the status of pebble plains being 
considered for designation (habitat quality and land ownership).
    Working with SBNF personnel with knowledge of pebble plains species 
and habitats, we then identified pebble plains within each of the 12 
occupied pebble plain complexes that met the following criteria for 
each of the three listed species: (1) Contained the PCEs, (2) known to 
be occupied at the time of listing and currently occupied; (3) if not 
known to be occupied at the time of listing, currently occupied and 
essential to the conservation of the species; (4) large or well-defined 
relative to other pebble plains in the complex; and (5) least disturbed 
by anthropogenic threats (such as unauthorized vehicle use) relative to 
other pebble plains in the complex. The majority of the pebble plains 
(14 of 22) being proposed as critical habitat contain all three of the 
listed species. To the extent possible, we included the larger pebble 
plains within a complex that were proximal to other relatively large 
pebble plains occupied by the listed species in order to capture areas 
with presumably higher species diversity. Ciano (1984, p. 14) examined 
species variability on pebble plains in relation to island biogeography 
theory and found that the number of species within a pebble plain 
increased with the size of the pebble plain and decreased as distance 
from other pebble plains increased; thus larger pebble plains located 
closer to other pebble plains had higher species diversity.
    For non-pebble plain meadow margin areas (Mojavean desert scrub--
PCE 1) containing Castilleja cinerea, we identified those occupied 
areas that: (1) Contain unique habitat characteristics (such as soil 
type--PCE 2)) relative to other non-pebble plain areas occupied by the 
species, and (2) are within areas with the least amount of disturbance 
by anthropogenic threats (such as unauthorized vehicle use) relative to 
other occupied non-pebble plain habitat.
    For the purposes of this rule, occupied ``at the time of listing'' 
is defined as those occurrences or areas identified in the final 
listing rule (63 FR 49006; September 14, 1998) or those areas known to 
be occupied prior to the publication of the listing rule according to 
occupancy data in our files (CNDDB 1997a, 1997b, 1997c). Table 1 above 
lists the pebble plain complexes occupied at the time of listing and 
currently occupied for each of the three listed pebble plain species. 
We are not proposing any unoccupied areas or areas outside the 
geographic area presently occupied by the species.
    When determining proposed critical habitat boundaries, we tried to 
avoid including within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat 
developed areas such as buildings, paved areas, and other structures 
that lack PCEs for Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum 
kennedyi var. austromontanum. The scale of the maps prepared under the 
parameters for publication within the Code of Federal Regulations may 
not reflect the exclusion of such developed areas. Any such structures 
and the land under them inadvertently left inside critical habitat 
boundaries shown on the maps of this proposed rule have been excluded 
by text in the proposed rule and are not proposed for designation as 
critical habitat. Therefore, Federal actions limited to these areas 
would not trigger

[[Page 67719]]

section 7 consultation, unless they may affect the species or primary 
constituent elements in adjacent critical habitat.
    We are proposing to designate critical habitat on lands that we 
have determined were occupied at the time of listing or are currently 
occupied by Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, or Eriogonum kennedyi 
var. austromontanum and that contain one or more of the primary 
constituent elements to support life history functions essential for 
the conservation of these species.

Special Management Considerations or Protection

    When designating critical habitat, we assess whether the areas 
determined to be occupied at the time of listing contain primary 
constituent elements that may require special management considerations 
or protection.
    As stated in the final listing rule, major threats to all three 
listed pebble plains species throughout their range include land 
development, off-highway vehicle (OHV) use off of designated routes, 
road maintenance activities, ground disturbance that affects surface 
hydrology, mining activities, recreational activities, and nonnative 
plant species (63 FR 49006; September 14, 1998). The use of OHVs off of 
designated routes has historically been the greatest threat to pebble 
plains habitat (63 FR 49006). The primary constituent elements for the 
listed pebble plains species may require special management 
considerations or protection to minimize impacts associated with--(1) 
Vehicle use and road maintenance; (2) recreational activities; and (3) 
the presence of nonnative species (63 FR 49006; USFS 2002, p. 17; USFS 
2005, pp. 207, 249, 293).
    All of the pebble plain complexes have some degree of impact 
associated with the USFS-authorized and unauthorized use of vehicles 
and associated maintenance (USFS 2002, pp. 20, 25, 30-68). Vehicle use 
and road maintenance could introduce invasive, nonnative plants, 
increase the potential for unauthorized routes to develop (leading to 
the crushing and burying of individual plants and soil compaction), and 
cover individuals with dust and mud that can impair physiological 
functions (USFS 2002, p. 20; USFWS 2005, pp. 233, 238, 243).
    Along with soil compaction, soil erosion resulting from vehicle use 
could significantly alter the soil composition required by the listed 
species (PCE 2). During the wet season, vehicle traffic directly 
disturbs or destroys vegetation and creates deep ruts that change the 
hydrological patterns over the pebble plain (USFS 2002, p. 20). Vehicle 
traffic also increases breakdown in natural soil aggregates (structure) 
(Sadler, pers. comm. 1989 cited in USFS 2002, p. 22). Changes in the 
hydrological pattern associated with a pebble plain could alter the 
soil composition by allowing for erosion of clay sediments during 
rainfall events, leaving only large cobbles and pebbles (PCE 2). These 
changes to the soil morphology and composition could result in 
alterations to the vegetation structure and composition of the area, 
allowing for the invasion of native and nonnative plant species that 
could out-complete the listed species for space and resources and 
further alter the soil composition by increasing organic debris (PCEs 
1, 2, and 3).
    The invasion of nonnative plant species can result in crowding, 
overshadowing, and altering fuel loads and hydrology (USFS 2002, p. 
25). While fire has not been considered an important factor in shaping 
the pebble plain community, the establishment of an introduced species, 
such as cheatgrass, might provide the fine fuels to allow fire to 
spread more readily and result in alterations to the composition and 
structure of the pebble plain community (USFS 2002, pp. 19-20). Pebble 
plain species flourish in their specific environment, but they cannot 
complete with other plant species adapted to shaded areas or sites 
where heavy litter layers accumulate (USFS 2002, p. 15). The invasion 
of nonnative species may alter the soil composition (PCE 2) or cause an 
increase in the amount of leaf litter, allowing for the eventual 
encroachment of adjacent native shrub and tree species into the pebble 
plain, and diminishing the habitat available to pebble plain obligate 
species and host species (PCE 1). Derby (1979, p. 72) found lower 
densities of all three of the listed species in pebble plain areas 
where leaf litter was abundant under trees.
    The USFS prepared the 2002 Pebble Plain Management Guide (USFS 
2002, p. i) as an update to the 1990 Pebble Plain Habitat Management 
Guide and Action Plan by Neal and Barrows. The 2002 Pebble Plain 
Management Guide was designed to provide management direction for the 
conservation of pebble plain habitat in the SBNF, to aid in recovery of 
the three federally listed plants, and to improve conditions for Forest 
sensitive species occurring in this habitat. The 2002 Pebble Plain 
Management Guide identifies the following management goals necessary to 
reduce impacts to pebble plain habitat--protecting pebble plain habitat 
throughout its geographic range, reducing habitat loss and 
fragmentation, maintaining site viability, and encouraging compatible 
uses (USFS 2002, p. i).
    The USFS has completed many of the actions outlined in the plan to 
avoid and minimize impacts to the three listed pebble plain species 
including, but not limited to permanently closing some roads bisecting 
pebble plains, installing fencing or gates along some roads to prevent 
unauthorized access onto adjacent pebble plains, establishing alternate 
trails, adding law enforcement patrols, relocating special events out 
of pebble plain habitat, and posting of signs to keep vehicles out of 
sensitive habitat; however, ongoing unauthorized use is still occurring 
in all of the pebble plain complexes (USFS 2002, pp. 30-68). See the 
``Unit Description'' section for a discussion of the special management 
considerations or protection that may be needed for each unit or 
subunit being proposed as critical habitat.

Proposed Critical Habitat Designation

    We are proposing a total of 1,511 ac (611 ha) of Federal, State, 
and private land within 11 units, with 9 of these units further divided 
into 20 subunits, as critical habitat for Arenaria ursina, Castilleja 
cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum. Table 2 below 
provides the approximate area of each unit or subunit being proposed as 
critical habitat for Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum 
kennedyi var. austromontanum. Table 3 below provides landownership 
sizes in each unit or subunit. Table 4 outlines the units and subunits 
proposed as critical habitat and the total area for each species. Since 
these species often occur in the same pebble plains, the total area 
being proposed as critical habitat for each species will not equal the 
total area being proposed for all three species combined.
    While the pebble plain in the Grinnell Ridge Complex was known to 
be occupied by Castilleja cinerea at the time of listing (Table 1), the 
area was last surveyed in 1994 (Eliason 2006b, p. 1), and we cannot 
determine whether the mapped area represents the species occurrence or 
the pebble plain boundary. Moreover, this pebble plain is located in a 
remote area in the San Gorgonio Wilderness Area on SBNF and is not 
easily accessible. We do not have sufficient information to determine 
that this area has the features that are essential to the conservation 
of the species as defined for the purposes of this critical habitat 
designation, and therefore we are not proposing to

[[Page 67720]]

designate the Grinnell Ridge Complex as essential habitat.
    The critical habitat areas described below constitute our best 
assessment at this time of areas determined to be occupied at the time 
of listing, containing primary constituent elements that may require 
special management considerations or protection, and those additional 
areas that were not occupied at the time of listing but were found to 
be essential to the conservation of Arenaria ursina, Castilleja 
cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum.

  Table 2.--Proposed Critical Habitat (acres (ac), hectares (ha)) for Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and
 Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum. The Abbreviation ``ppn.'' Refers to the Pebble Plain Number Identified
                                in the USFS Pebble Plain Management Guide (2002)
                    [Area estimates reflect all land within critical habitat unit boundaries]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                    Total area    Total area   Listed species in
   Proposed  critical  habitat  unit     Pebble plain complex and   of unit (ac   of subunit    unit or subunit
                                               subunit name            (ha))       (ac (ha))          \1\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.....................................                             Arrastre/Union Flat
                                        1A (ppn. 100)............     298 (121)       69 (28)              1,2,3
                                        1B (ppn. 87).............  ............      229 (93)              1,2,3
2.....................................                                Big Bear Lake
                                        2A (ppn. 248)............       28 (11)        21 (9)                1,2
                                        2B (ppn. 254)............  ............         6 (2)              1,2,3
3.....................................                                 Broom Flat
                                        3A (ppn. 311)............     384 (156)       58 (23)              1,2,3
                                        3B (ppn. 285 & 309)......  ............     326 (132)                1,2
4.....................................                                  Fawnskin
                                        4A (ppn. 301)............       41 (17)        15 (6)              1,2,3
                                        4B (ppn. 302)............  ............       24 (10)              1,2,3
                                        4C (Juniper Point).......  ............         2 (1)                  2
5.....................................                                Gold Mountain
                                        5A (ppn. 188)............      105 (42)       62 (25)              1,2,3
                                        5B (ppn. 192)............  ............       43 (17)              1,2,3
                                        5C (South Baldwin meadow)  ............     0.3 (0.1)                  2
6.....................................                               Holcomb Valley
                                        6A (ppn. 98 & 109).......       72 (29)       28 (11)              1,2,3
                                        6B (ppn. 153)............  ............       44 (18)              1,2,3
7.....................................                             North Baldwin Lake
                                        7A (ppn. 128)............     351 (142)     320 (129)              1,2,3
                                        7B (ppn. 168)............  ............         4 (2)                  2
8.....................................                                   Sawmill
                                        8A (ppn. 236)............       50 (20)       44 (18)              1,2,3
                                        8B (ppn. 224)............  ............         5 (2)              1,2,3
9.....................................  Snow Valley (ppn. 270)...       26 (10)            NA                  2
10....................................  South Baldwin Ridge/Erwin        23 (9)            NA              1,2,3
                                         Lake (ppn. 212).
11....................................                               Sugarloaf Ridge
                                        11A (ppn. 294)...........      161 (65)      127 (51)                1,2
                                        11B (ppn. 289)...........  ............       34 (14)                1,2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Total.............................  22.......................                   1,511 (611)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ 1 = Arenaria ursina, 2 = Castilleja cinerea, 3 = Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum.


Table 3.--Landownership (acres (ac), hectares (ha)) in Units or Subunits
   Being Proposed as Critical Habitat for Arenaria ursina, Castilleja
           cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Total area (ac
          Unit or subunit               Landowner\1\           (ha))
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1A................................  USFS................         69 (28)
1B................................  USFS................        229 (93)
2A................................  USFS................          21 (9)
2B................................  USFS................           6 (2)
3A................................  USFS................         58 (23)
3B................................  USFS................       255 (103)
                                    Private (The                 71 (29)
                                     Wildlands
                                     Conservancy).
4A................................  USFS................          15 (6)
4B................................  USFS................         24 (10)
4C................................  USFS................           2 (1)
5A................................  USFS................         62 (25)
5B................................  USFS................         43 (17)
5C................................  USFS................       0.2 (0.1)
6A................................  USFS................          22 (9)
                                    Private.............           6 (2)
6B................................  USFS................         44 (18)
7A................................  USFS................       320 (129)

[[Page 67721]]

 
7B................................  CDFG................           4 (2)
8A................................  USFS................          15 (6)
                                    Private.............         30 (12)
8B................................  Private.............           5 (2)
9.................................  USFS................         26 (10)
10................................  USFS................          23 (9)
11A...............................  USFS................        127 (51)
11B...............................  USFS................         34 (14)
                                                         ---------------
    Total.........................  ....................     1,511 (611)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ USFS = U.S. Forest Service (lands in the San Bernardino National
  Forest), CDFG = California Department of Fish and Game.


 Table 4.--Units or Subunits and Total Area (acres (ac), hectares (ha))
   Being Proposed as Critical Habitat for Arenaria ursina, Castilleja
           cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                         Total area  (ac
            Species                 Unit or subunits          (ha))*
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Arenaria ursina................   All except 4C, 5C,         1,478 (598)
                                  7B, 9.
Castilleja cinerea.............  All...................      1,511 (611)
Eriogonum kennedyi var.          All except 2A, 3B, 4C,       970 (393)
 austromontanum.                  5C, 7B, 9, 11A, 11B.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* These species often occur in the same pebble plains. Therefore the
  total area being proposed as critical habitat for each species will
  not equal the total area being proposed for all three species
  combined.

Unit Descriptions

    We present brief descriptions of all units and subunits below and 
reasons why they meet the definition of critical habitat for Arenaria 
ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum. 
Each subunit is named using the pebble plain occurrence number (for 
example ``ppn. 100'') as identified in the USFS's 2002 Pebble Plain 
Management Guide.

Unit 1: Arrastre/Union Flat

    The Arrastre/Union Flat pebble plain complex consists of 33 pebble 
plains of varying size that total approximately 377 ac (153 ha) of 
habitat, the majority of which are on the San Bernardino National 
Forest (SBNF) land (USFS 2002, pp. 32, 47). Pebble plains in this 
complex have historically been, and continue to be, impacted by vehicle 
use related to woodcutting and camping activities not authorized by the 
USFS (USFS 2002, p. 47). Pebble plains in this complex are also 
threatened by the invasion of nonnative cheatgrass (USFS 2002, pp. 47-
48).
    We are proposing to designate as critical habitat approximately 298 
ac (121 ha) within this complex consisting of two pebble plains in the 
SBNF: Subunit 1A (ppn. 100) is 69 ac (28 ha) and Subunit 1B (ppn. 87) 
is 229 ac (93 ha) (Tables 2, 3). Subunits 1A and 1B were known to be 
occupied by all three listed plants at the time of listing, and all 
three listed species continue to occur within these subunits (Table 1). 
Subunits 1A and 1B contain the PCEs for each of the listed species; are 
large, well defined pebble plains; are within the northernmost pebble 
plains in the designation; are within the geographic range occupied by 
the species at time of listing; and represent the least disturbed 
pebble plains in this complex.
    Both subunits are bisected by existing USFS roads. As outlined in 
the USFS's Pebble Plain Management Guide (USFS 2002) and the USFS's 
Biological Assessment for the Revised Land Management Plans (USFS 
2005), the USFS has undertaken various actions to minimize impacts to 
pebble plains under its jurisdiction in this complex, including 
permanently closing roads, installing fencing along roads to prevent 
unauthorized access on the adjacent pebble plain, ripping (defacing) 
some roads to discourage vehicle trespass around fences, and posting 
signs to keep vehicles out of sensitive habitat. However, unauthorized 
vehicle use still occurs on the pebble plains in this complex (USFS 
2002, pp. 48, 48a). Special management may be required to protect and 
maintain the PCEs supported by Subunits 1A and 1B due to the potential 
impacts of unauthorized use and invasive nonnative plant species (such 
as cheatgrass) that occur in some of the other pebble plain complexes.

Unit 2: Big Bear Lake

    The Big Bear Lake pebble plain complex consists of a series of 39 
pebble plains of varying sizes within and adjacent to the City of Big 
Bear Lake. This complex totals approximately 96 ac (39 ha) of habitat 
on private and SBNF lands (USFS 2002, pp. 31, 37). Prior to residential 
development in Big Bear Valley and the construction of Big Bear Dam, 
pebble plain habitat was more widespread and more contiguous in this 
complex (USFS 2002, p. 38). Threats to pebble plain habitat on private 
lands include residential development and trampling from horses and 
hikers, and on USFS lands they include trampling, soil compaction, and 
unauthorized vehicle use through dispersed recreation (USFS 2002, p. 
39). Pebble plains in this complex may also be threatened by the 
presence of invasive nonnative plant species (such as cheatgrass) that 
occur in other pebble plain complexes (USFS 2002, pp. 47-48, 45, 50, 
56, 64).
    We are proposing to designate as critical habitat approximately 28 
ac (11 ha) within this complex consisting of two pebble plains in the 
SBNF--Subunit 2A (ppn. 248) is 21 ac (9 ha) and Subunit 2B (ppn. 254) 
is 6 ac (2 ha) (Tables 2, 3). Subunit 2A was known to be occupied at 
the time of listing by Arenaria ursina and Castilleja cinerea, and both 
species continue to grow within this subunit (Table 1). This subunit is 
not proposed as critical habitat for Eriogonum kennedyi var.

[[Page 67722]]

austromontanum. Subunit 2A contains the PCEs for both species, is a 
relatively large and well defined pebble plain, represents the least 
disturbed pebble plains remaining in this complex, and is within the 
geographic range occupied by the species at time of listing. Subunit 2B 
was known to be occupied at the time of listing by all three listed 
species, and these species still occur within this subunit (Table 1). 
Subunit 2B contains the PCEs for each of the three species, is a 
relatively large and well defined pebble plain, represents the least 
disturbed pebble plains remaining in this complex, and is within the 
geographic range occupied by the species at time of listing.
    Both Subunits 2A and 2B historically have been impacted by 
recreational activities (USFS 2002, pg. 38). Subunit 2A, in the Aspen 
Glen area, is bisected by a recreational trail, which is used by 
horses, hikers, and mountain bikers. Subunit 2B, in the former Snow 
Summit Ski Area, has historically been the site of annual bicycle races 
and is bisected by several classified and unclassified bicycle trails. 
USFS has undertaken various actions to minimize impacts to pebble 
plains under its jurisdiction in this complex, including installing 
fencing along trails to prevent further encroachment into the pebble 
plain, establishing alternate paths, installing gates and fencing to 
prevent motorized access to pebble plains, relocating annual bicycle 
races to other sites (USFS 2002, p. 39; USFS 2005, p. 208), and closing 
the Snow Summit Ski Area (USFS 2005, p. 250; USFWS 2005, p. 233). 
However, special management may be required to protect and maintain the 
PCEs supported by Subunits 2A and 2B.

Unit 3: Broom Flat

    The Broom Flat pebble plain complex consists of 23 pebble plains of 
varying size that total approximately 752 ac (304 ha) of habitat, the 
majority of which are in the SBNF (USFS 2002, pp. 33, 62). Pebble 
plains in this complex have historically been impacted primarily by 
unauthorized vehicle use and are now being impacted by the presence of 
invasive nonnative plant species (such as cheatgrass and common 
knotweed (USFS 2002, p. 64)).
    We are proposing to designate as critical habitat approximately 384 
ac (156 ha) within this complex consisting of two pebble plains on 
Federal (SBNF) and private lands (The Wildlands Conservancy): Subunit 
3A (ppn. 311) is 58 ac (23 ha) and Subunit 3B (ppn. 285 and 309) is 326 
ac (132 ha) (Tables 2, 3). Subunit 3A was known to be occupied at the 
time of listing and is currently occupied by Arenaria ursina and 
Castilleja cinerea. Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum is also 
currently found in this subunit, but it was not known from here at the 
time of listing (Table 1). Subunit 3A contains the PCEs for each of the 
species, and is essential to the conservation of E. k. var. 
austromontanum because it is a relatively large pebble plain that 
represents the least disturbed pebble plains in this complex, and is 
within the eastern/most pebble plain complex in this designation. 
Subunit 3B was known to be occupied at the time of listing by Arenaria 
ursina and Castilleja cinerea, and both species still occur within this 
subunit (Table 1). Subunit 3B is only being proposed as critical 
habitat for these two species. Subunit 3B contains the PCEs for both 
species, is a relatively large pebble plain, represents the least 
disturbed pebble plains in this complex, is within the geographic range 
occupied by the species at time of listing, and is within the eastern/
most pebble plain complex in this designation.
    Both subunits are bisected by existing USFS roads. USFS has 
undertaken various actions to minimize impacts to pebble plains under 
its jurisdiction in this complex, including permanently closing roads, 
installing fencing along roads to prevent unauthorized access on the 
adjacent pebble plain, ripping some roads to discourage vehicle 
trespass around fences, and posting signs to keep vehicles out of 
sensitive habitat; however, these barriers are in need of constant 
monitoring and repairs (USFS 2002, p. 64). The pebble plain in Subunit 
3A may also be impacted by cattle trespass from the Rattlesnake grazing 
allotment and burro use associated with the Burro Herd Management Area 
(USFS 2002, p. 64). Special management may be required to protect and 
maintain the PCEs supported by Subunits 3A and 3B.

Unit 4: Fawnskin

    The Fawnskin pebble plain complex consists of 15 pebble plains of 
varying sizes that total approximately 64 ac (26 ha) of habitat on 
private and SBNF lands (USFS 2002, pp. 32, 44). Pebble plains in this 
complex have historically been and are currently being impacted by 
urban development, unauthorized vehicle use, and the presence of 
invasive nonnative species (such as cheatgrass) (USFS 2002, pp. 45).
    We are proposing to designate as critical habitat approximately 41 
ac (17 ha) within this complex consisting of two pebble plains and one 
non-pebble plain meadow margin area in the SBNF. Subunit 4A (ppn. 301) 
is 15 ac (6 ha), Subunit 4B (ppn. 302) is 24 ac (10 ha), and Subunit 4C 
(Juniper Point) is 2 ac (1 ha) (Tables 2, 3). Subunits 4A and 4B were 
known to be occupied at the time of listing by all three listed species 
and these plants continue to occur within these subunits. Subunit 4C 
was known to be occupied at the time of listing and is still occupied 
only by Castilleja cinerea (Table 1). Subunit 4C is being proposed as 
critical habitat only for C. cinerea. Subunits 4A and 4B contain the 
PCEs for all three of the listed species, are within the geographic 
range occupied by the species at time of listing, and are relatively 
large and the least disturbed pebble plains remaining in this complex. 
Subunit 4C (Juniper Point) is essential to the conservation of 
Castilleja cinerea because it contains the PCEs for the species, is 
within the geographic range occupied by the species at time of listing, 
represents a unique habitat type (non-pebble plain meadow margin) for 
the species (Engelhard 2006), and is important for maintaining genetic 
diversity for the species. This subunit is also one of the few occupied 
non-pebble plain meadow margin areas remaining that is relatively 
undisturbed.
    Both Subunits 4A and 4B are bisected by several unclassified roads 
associated with existing USFS roads. While USFS has undertaken various 
actions such as permanently closing roads and posting signs to keep 
vehicles out of sensitive habitat, barriers have been repeatedly 
breached over the past decade and unauthorized vehicle use along some 
of the unclassified roads still continues (USFS 2002, pp. 45-46). 
Subunit 4C is within a fenced area adjacent to Big Bear Lake owned by 
the USFS. The area contains a paved trail for hiking and is across the 
street from the ranger station. Special management may be required to 
protect and maintain the PCEs supported by Subunits 4A and 4B due to 
the potential impacts of public vehicle use outside of designated areas 
and the invasion of nonnative plant species (such as cheatgrass). 
Special management may also be required to protect and maintain the 
PCEs supported by Subunits 4A, 4B and 4C due to the potential impacts 
of dispersed recreation and OHV use outside of designed areas.

Unit 5: Gold Mountain

    The Gold Mountain pebble plain complex consists of 18 pebble plains 
of varying sizes that total approximately 88 ac (36 ha) of habitat on 
private and SBNF lands (USFS 2002, pp. 32, 52). Pebble plains in this 
complex have historically been impacted by USFS-authorized vehicle use 
and vehicle use associated with woodcutting and rock

[[Page 67723]]

collecting not authorized by the USFS (USFS 2002, pg. 52). Pebble 
plains in this complex may also be threatened by the presence of 
invasive nonnative plant species (such as cheatgrass) that occur in 
other pebble plain complexes (USFS 2002, pp. 47-48, 45, 50, 56, 64).
    We are proposing to designate as critical habitat approximately 105 
ac (42 ha) of Federal land (SBNF) consisting of two pebble plains in 
this complex and one non-pebble plain meadow margin area adjacent to 
this complex. Subunit 5A (ppn. 188) is 62 ac (25 ha), Subunit 5B (ppn. 
192) is 43 ac (17 ha), and Subunit 5C (South Baldwin meadow) is 0.3 ac 
(0.1 ha) (Tables 2, 3). Subunits 5A and 5B were known to be occupied at 
the time of listing and are still occupied by all three listed species 
(Table 1). While the non-pebble plain meadow margin habitat in Subunit 
5C was not identified in the final listing rule (63 FR 49006; September 
14, 1998), it is currently occupied by Castilleja cinerea and is 
considered to have been occupied at the time of listing based on pre-
listing occupancy records (CNDDB 1997b). Subunit 5C is being proposed 
as critical habitat only for C. cinerea.
    Subunits 5A and 5B contain the PCEs for each of the three listed 
species, are relatively large and well-defined pebble plains, represent 
the least disturbed pebble plains in this complex, and are within the 
geographic range occupied by the species at time of listing. Subunit 5C 
is essential to the conservation of Castilleja cinerea because it 
contains the PCEs for the species, it is within the geographic range 
occupied by the species at time of listing, and represents a unique 
habitat type (non-pebble plain meadow margin) for the species, 
representing an area that is important for maintaining genetic 
diversity for the species. This subunit is also one of the few occupied 
non-pebble plain meadow margin areas remaining that is relatively 
undisturbed and also supports other federally listed plant species 
(such as Sidalcea pedata).
    Subunits 5A and 5B are bisected by Forest Road 3N69 and several 
unclassified roads. While USFS has undertaken various actions such as 
closing the area to woodcutting, permanently closing roads, and 
conducting area patrols, unauthorized vehicle use continues to impact 
these pebble plains (USFS 2002, p. 53; Engelhard 2006). Subunit 5C is 
threatened by occasional unauthorized access by equestrian and OHV use 
by adjacent private landowners (Engelhard 2006). Special management may 
be required to protect and maintain the PCEs supported by Subunits 5A, 
5B, and 5C due to the potential impacts of dispersed recreation and OHV 
use outside of designed areas. Special management, such as the 
development of a routine monitoring and removal program, may also be 
required to protect and maintain the PCEs supported by Subunits 5A and 
5B due to the invasion of nonnative plant species (such as cheatgrass).

Unit 6: Holcomb Valley

    The Holcomb Valley pebble plain complex consists of 96 pebble 
plains of varying sizes that total approximately 460 ac (186 ha) of 
habitat primarily in the SBNF (USFS 2002, pp. 31, 40). Pebble plains in 
this complex have historically been impacted by USFS-authorized and 
unauthorized vehicle use, previous silviculture treatments, campground 
development, dispersed recreation, and access or maintenance associated 
with a gas pipeline (USFS 2002, pp. 41-42). Pebble plains in this 
complex may also be threatened by the presence of invasive nonnative 
plant species (such as cheatgrass) that occur in other pebble plain 
complexes (USFS 2002, pp. 47-48, 45, 50, 56, 64).
    We are proposing to designate as critical habitat approximately 72 
ac (29 ha) within this complex consisting of two pebble plains on 
Federal (SBNF) and private (Boy Scouts of America (BSA)) land: Subunit 
6A (ppn. 98 and 109) is 28 ac (11 ha) and Subunit 6B (ppn. 153) is 44 
ac (18 ha) (Tables 2, 3). The majority of Subunit 6A is in the SBNF, 
though a small portion occurs on private land owned by the BSA 
(Hitchcock Ranch). Subunit 6B is entirely within the SBNF. Subunits 6A 
and 6B were known to be occupied at the time of listing and are still 
occupied by all three listed species (Table 1). Subunits 6A and 6B 
contain the PCEs for each of the three listed species, are within the 
geographic range occupied by the species at time of listing, are among 
the northern most pebble plains in this designation, are relatively 
large and well-defined pebble plains, and represent the least disturbed 
pebble plains in this complex.
    USFS has undertaken various actions, such decommissioning and 
rehabilitating certain roads, installing fencing along roads to prevent 
unauthorized access on the adjacent pebble plain, posting signs to keep 
vehicles out of sensitive habitat, relocating special events formerly 
in pebble plain habitat (such as the Mountain Man event), and 
discontinuing camping permits in certain areas to reduce the impact in 
these areas. However, pebble plains in the Holcomb Valley Complex 
continue to be impacted by unauthorized vehicle use (USFS 2002, p. 40). 
Special management may be required to protect and maintain the PCEs 
supported by Subunits 6A and 6B due to the potential impacts of 
dispersed recreation and OHV use outside of designed areas and the 
invasion of nonnative plant species (such as cheatgrass).

Unit 7: North Baldwin Lake

    The North Baldwin Lake pebble plain complex consists of 12 pebble 
plains of varying sizes that totals approximately 527 ac (213 ha) of 
habitat primarily in the SBNF (USFS 2002, pp. 33, 54). Pebble plains in 
this complex were historically, and continue to be impacted, by 
authorized and unauthorized vehicle use, mining activity, residential 
development, burros, and invasive nonnative plant species (such as 
cheatgrass and Lepidium perfoliatum (clasping pepperweed)) (USFS 2002, 
pg. 56).
    We are proposing to designate as critical habitat approximately 351 
ac (142 ha) within this complex consisting of one pebble plain and one 
non-pebble plain meadow margin area on Federal (SBNF) and State (CDFG) 
lands: Subunit 7A (ppn. 128) is 320 ac (129 ha) and Subunit 7B (ppn. 
168) is 4 ac (2 ha) (Tables 2, 3). All of Subunit 7A is in the SBNF and 
all of Subunit 7B in the CDFG's Baldwin Ecological Reserve. Subunit 7A 
was known to be occupied at the time of listing and continues to be 
occupied by all three listed plants (Table 1). While the non-pebble 
plains meadow margin habitat in Subunit 7B was not identified in the 
listing rule, it is currently occupied by Castilleja cinerea and is 
considered to have been occupied at the time of listing based on pre-
listing occupancy records (CNDDB 1997b).
    Subunit 7A contains the PCEs for each of the three of the listed 
species, is within the geographic range occupied by the species at time 
of listing, is a relatively large and well defined pebble plain in this 
complex, and represents one of the least disturbed pebble plain in this 
complex. Subunit 7B contains the PCEs for Castilleja cinerea, is within 
the geographic range occupied by the species at time of listing, and 
represents a unique habitat type (non-pebble plain meadow margin 
habitat with alkali soils) and the only area known to support this 
species on alkali soils. This occurrence represents a unique portion of 
the range of environmental variability for the species and is important 
for maintaining genetic diversity of the species. This subunit is also 
one of the few occupied non-pebble plain meadow margin areas remaining 
that is relatively undisturbed. This area also supports

[[Page 67724]]

other federally listed plant species (such as Sidalcea pedata and 
Thelypodium stenopetalum).
    Subunit 7A is bisected by several unclassified roads associated 
with existing USFS roads and Subunit 7B is adjacent to an existing 
road. USFS has undertaken various actions such as permanently closing 
roads, installing fencing along major roads adjacent to pebble plain 
habitat, and posting signs to keep vehicles out of sensitive habitat. 
However, authorized and unauthorized vehicle use continues to impact 
pebble plains in the North Baldwin Lake Complex (USFS 2002, p. 57). 
Special management may be required to protect and maintain the PCEs 
supported by Subunits 7A and 7B due to the potential impacts of 
dispersed recreation and OHV use outside of designed areas and the 
invasion of nonnative plant species (such as cheatgrass).

Unit 8: Sawmill

    The Sawmill pebble plain complex consists of 22 pebble plains of 
varying size that total approximately 396 ac (160 ha) of habitat on 
private and Federal land (SBNF) (USFS 2002, pp. 32, 49). Pebble plains 
in this complex were historically, and continue to be impacted by 
authorized and unauthorized vehicle use, residential development, and 
invasive nonnative plant species (such as cheatgrass) (USFS 2002, pp. 
50).
    We are proposing to designate as critical habitat approximately 50 
ac (20 ha) within this complex consisting of two pebble plains on 
Federal (USFS) and private lands: Subunit 8A (ppn. 236) is 45 ac (18 
ha) and Subunit 8B (a portion of ppn. 244) is 5 ac (2 ha) (Tables 2, 
3). About half of Subunit 8A is in the SBNF, while the other half is on 
private land within an area protected from development by a 
conservation easement. Subunit 8B is entirely on private land within an 
area protected from development by a conservation easement. Subunits 8A 
and 8B were known to be occupied at the time of listing and continue to 
be occupied by all three listed species (Table 1). Subunits 8A and 8B 
contain the PCEs for each of the three listed species, are within the 
geographic range occupied by the species at time of listing, are 
relatively large and well-defined pebble plains, and represent the only 
pebble plains remaining in this complex that have not been destroyed or 
significantly degraded by residential development.
    The southern portion of Subunit 8A is on private land and protected 
by a conservation easement held by the local homeowners' association 
and established as part of the Moonridge residential development 
(Engelhard 2006). The northern portion of this subunit is bisected by a 
partially devegetated vehicle track that allows foot access to this 
fenced pebble plain, which is used heavily by local residents. Subunit 
8B is bisected by several unclassified roads associated with 
woodcutting and dispersed recreation (USFS 2002, pp. 50-51). USFS has 
undertaken or participated in various actions, such as posting signs to 
keep hikers and vehicles out of sensitive habitat. However, authorized 
and unauthorized dispersed recreation and unauthorized vehicle use 
continues to impact pebble plains in the Sawmill Complex, including the 
northern portion of Subunit 8A (USFS 2002, p. 51; Engelhard 2006). 
Special management may be required to protect and maintain the PCEs 
supported by Subunits 8A and 8B due to the potential impacts of 
dispersed recreation and OHV use outside of designed areas and the 
invasion of nonnative plant species (such as cheatgrass).

Unit 9: Snow Valley

    The Snow Valley pebble plain complex consists of 3 pebble plains of 
varying sizes that total approximately 33 ac (13 ha) of habitat in the 
SBNF (USFS 2002, pp. 30, 31). Pebble plains in this complex were 
historically impacted by vehicle access, residential development, and 
heavy-use recreation (such as skiing or biking) (USFS 2002, pg. 30). 
Pebble plains in this complex may also be threatened by the presence of 
invasive nonnative plant species (such as cheatgrass) that occur in 
other pebble plain complexes (USFS 2002, pp. 47-48, 45, 50, 56, 64).
    We are proposing to designate as critical habitat approximately 26 
ac (10 ha) within this complex consisting of one pebble plain within 
the SBNF: Unit 9 (ppn. 270) (Tables 2, 3). Unit 9 was known to be 
occupied at the time of listing and is still occupied by Castilleja 
cinerea (Table 1). This unit is being proposed as critical habitat only 
for C. cinerea. It contains the PCEs for the species, is within the 
geographic range occupied by the species at time of listing, is within 
the western most pebble plain complex in this designation, represents a 
unique habitat type (pebble plain habitat with granitic soils), and 
supports the only known occurrence of this species on granitic soils. 
This occurrence represents a unique portion of the range of 
environmental variability for the species and is important for 
maintaining genetic diversity for the species.
    Unit 9 borders Highway 18 and is within a heavy recreational use 
area. USFS has undertaken or participated in various actions, such as 
posting signs to keep hikers out of sensitive habitat. However, 
dispersed recreation, and unauthorized vehicle use continues to impact 
pebble plains in the Snow Valley (USFS 2002, p. 51). Special management 
may be required to protect and maintain the PCEs supported by Unit 9 
due to the potential impacts of dispersed recreation and OHV use 
outside of designed areas and the invasion of nonnative plant species 
(such as cheatgrass).

Unit 10: South Baldwin Ridge/Erwin Lake

    The South Baldwin Ridge/Erwin Lake pebble plain complex consists of 
15 pebble plains of varying sizes that total approximately 87 ac (35 
ha) of habitat on private and SBNF lands (USFS 2002, pp. 33, 49). 
Pebble plains in this complex were historically, and continue to be 
impacted by authorized and unauthorized vehicle use, residential 
development, and invasive nonnative plant species (such as cheatgrass) 
(USFS 2002, pg. 50).
    We are proposing to designate as critical habitat approximately 23 
ac (9 ha) within this complex consisting of one pebble plain in the 
SBNF: Unit 10 (ppn. 212) (Tables 2, 3). Unit 10 was known to be 
occupied at the time of listing and still is occupied by all three 
listed plants (Table 1). This unit contains the PCEs for each of the 
three of the listed species, is within the geographic range occupied by 
the species at time of listing, is a relatively large and well-defined 
pebble plain, and is the only occupied pebble plain in this complex 
that has not been destroyed or significantly degraded due to 
residential development.
    Unit 10 is bisected by a partially devegetated vehicle track that 
allows foot access to this fenced pebble plain, which is used heavily 
by local residents (USFS 2002, pp. 50-51). USFS has undertaken or 
participated in various actions such as posting signs to keep hikers 
out of sensitive habitat. However, dispersed recreation, and 
unauthorized vehicle use continue to impact pebble plains in the South 
Baldwin Ridge Complex (USFS 2002, p. 51). Special management may be 
required to protect and maintain the PCEs supported by Unit 10 due to 
the potential impacts of dispersed recreation and OHV use outside of 
designed areas and the invasion of nonnative plant species (such as 
cheatgrass).

Unit 11: Sugarloaf Ridge

    The Sugarloaf Ridge pebble plain complex consists of 22 pebble 
plains of

[[Page 67725]]

varying sizes that total approximately 573 ac (232 ha) of habitat in 
the SBNF (USFS 2002, pp. 33, 58). Pebble plains in this complex were 
historically and continue to be impacted by authorized and unauthorized 
vehicle use and dispersed recreation (USFS 2002, p. 58). Pebble plains 
in this complex may also be threatened by the presence of invasive 
nonnative plant species (such as cheatgrass) that occur in some of the 
other pebble plain complexes (USFS 2002, pp. 47-48, 45, 50, 56, 64).
    We are proposing to designate as critical habitat approximately 161 
ac (65 ha) within this complex consisting of two pebble plains within 
the SBNF: Subunit 11A (ppn. 294) is 127 ac (51 ha) and Subunit 11B 
(ppn. 289) is 34 ac (14 ha) (Tables 2, 3). Subunits 11A and 11B are 
known to be occupied by Castilleja cinerea and Arenaria ursina. 
However, since the Sugarloaf Ridge complex was found to be occupied by 
these species about 3 years ago, after the 2002 Pebble Plain Management 
Guide was finalized (Eliason 2006a), these subunits are not considered 
to have been occupied at the time of listing (Table 1).
    Pebble plains in Subunits 11A and 11B are being proposed as 
critical habitat for Arenaria ursina and Castilleja cinerea only. They 
contain the PCEs for both species, are within the geographic range 
occupied by the species at time of listing, are relatively large pebble 
plains, and represent the least disturbed pebble plains in this 
complex. In addition, the A. ursina occurrence in the Sugarloaf Ridge 
complex is the within the southern most pebble plain complex in this 
designation, is the highest elevation occurrence known for this 
species, and is considered disjunct from populations in other 
complexes. The C. cinerea occurrence in this complex is morphologically 
distinctive from populations in other complexes (USFS 2002, p. 58; Bill 
2006). These occurrences represent a unique portion of the range of 
environmental variability for these species and are important for 
maintaining genetic diversity for the species.
    Several unclassified roads occur in or adjacent to Subunits 11A and 
11B (USFS 2002, p. 59). USFS has undertaken various actions such as 
posting signs to keep walkers and vehicles out of sensitive habitat 
within the Sugarloaf Ridge Complex overall. However, dispersed 
recreation and unauthorized vehicle use continues to impact pebble 
plains in the Sugarloaf Ridge Complex (USFS 2002, pp. 58-59). Special 
management may be required to protect and maintain the PCEs supported 
by Subunits 11A and 11B due to the potential impacts of dispersed 
recreation and OHV use outside of designed areas and the invasion of 
nonnative plant species (such as cheatgrass).

Effects of Critical Habitat Designation

Section 7 Consultation

    Section 7(a) of the Act requires Federal agencies, including the 
Service, to evaluate their actions with respect to any species that is 
proposed or listed as endangered or threatened and with respect to its 
critical habitat, if any is proposed or designated. Regulations 
implementing this interagency cooperation provision of the Act are 
codified at 50 CFR part 402.
    Section 7(a)(4) of the Act requires Federal agencies to confer with 
us on any action that is likely to jeopardize the continued existence 
of a species proposed for listing or result in destruction or adverse 
modification of proposed critical habitat. This is a procedural 
requirement only. However, once proposed species becomes listed, or 
proposed critical habitat is designated as final, the full prohibitions 
of section 7(a)(2) apply to any Federal action. The primary utility of 
the conference procedures is to maximize the opportunity for a Federal 
agency to adequately consider proposed species and critical habitat and 
avoid potential delays in implementing their proposed action as a 
result of the section 7(a)(2) compliance process, should those species 
be listed or the critical habitat designated.
    Under conference procedures, the Service may provide advisory 
conservation recommendations to assist the agency in eliminating 
conflicts that may be caused by the proposed action. The Service may 
conduct either informal or formal conferences. Informal conferences are 
typically used if the proposed action is not likely to have any adverse 
effects to the proposed species or proposed critical habitat. Formal 
conferences are typically used when the Federal agency or the Service 
believes the proposed action is likely to cause adverse effects to 
proposed species or critical habitat, inclusive of those that may cause 
jeopardy or adverse modification.
    The results of an informal conference are typically transmitted in 
a conference report, while the results of a formal conference are 
typically transmitted in a conference opinion. Conference opinions on 
proposed critical habitat are typically prepared according to 50 CFR 
402.14, as if the proposed critical habitat were designated. We may 
adopt the conference opinion as the biological opinion when the 
critical habitat is designated, if no substantial new information or 
changes in the action alter the content of the opinion (see 50 CFR 
402.10(d)). As noted above, any conservation recommendations in a 
conference report or opinion are strictly advisory.
    Once a species is listed or critical habitat is designated, section 
7(a)(2) of the Act requires Federal agencies to ensure that activities 
they authorize, fund, or carry out are not likely to jeopardize the 
continued existence of such a species or to destroy or adversely modify 
its critical habitat. Recent decisions by the 5th and 9th Circuit 
Courts of Appeals have invalidated our regulatory definition of 
``adverse modification'' at 50 CFR 402.02 (see Gifford Pinchot Task 
Force v. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 378 F. 3d 1059 (9th Cir 2004) 
and Sierra Club v. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service et al., 245 F.3d 434, 
442F (5th Cir 2001)). Pursuant to current national policy and the 
statutory provisions of the Act, we determine destruction or adverse 
modification based on whether, with implementation of the proposed 
Federal action, the affected critical habitat would remain functional 
(or retain the current ability for the primary constituent elements to 
be functionally established) to serve its intended conservation role 
for the species.
    If a Federal action may affect a listed species or its critical 
habitat, the responsible Federal agency (action agency) must enter into 
consultation with us. As a result of this consultation, compliance with 
the requirements of section 7(a)(2) will be documented through the 
Service's issuance of: (1) A concurrence letter for Federal actions 
that may affect, but are not likely to adversely affect, listed species 
or critical habitat; or (2) a biological opinion for Federal actions 
that are likely to adversely affect listed species or critical habitat.
    When we issue a biological opinion concluding that a project is 
likely to result in jeopardy to a listed species or the destruction or 
adverse modification of critical habitat, we also provide reasonable 
and prudent alternatives to the project, if any are identifiable. 
``Reasonable and prudent alternatives'' are defined at 50 CFR 402.02 as 
alternative actions identified during consultation that can be 
implemented in a manner consistent with the intended purpose of the 
action, that are consistent with the scope of the Federal agency's 
legal authority and jurisdiction, that are economically and 
technologically feasible, and that the Director believes would avoid 
jeopardy to the listed

[[Page 67726]]

species or destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat. 
Reasonable and prudent alternatives can vary from slight project 
modifications to extensive redesign or relocation of the project. Costs 
associated with implementing a reasonable and prudent alternative are 
similarly variable.
    Regulations at 50 CFR 402.16 require Federal agencies to reinitiate 
consultation on previously reviewed actions in certain instances, 
including where a new species is listed or critical habitat is 
subsequently designated that may be affected by the Federal action, 
where the Federal agency has retained discretionary involvement or 
control over the action or such discretionary involvement or control is 
authorized by law. Consequently, some Federal agencies may request 
reinitiation of consultation with us on actions for which formal 
consultation has been completed, if those actions may affect 
subsequently listed species or designated critical habitat or adversely 
modify or destroy proposed critical habitat.
    Federal activities that may affect Arenaria ursina, Castilleja 
cinerea, or Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum or their designated 
critical habitat will require section 7 consultation under the Act. 
Activities on State, Tribal, local or private lands requiring a Federal 
permit (such as a permit from the Army Corps of Engineers under section 
404 of the Clean Water Act or a permit under section 10(a)(1)(B) of the 
Act from the Service) or involving some other Federal action (such as 
funding from the Federal Highway Administration, Federal Aviation 
Administration, or the Federal Emergency Management Agency) will also 
be subject to the section 7 consultation process. Federal actions not 
affecting listed species or critical habitat, and actions on State, 
Tribal, local or private lands that are not federally funded, 
authorized, or permitted, do not require section 7 consultations.

Application of the Jeopardy and Adverse Modification Standards for 
Actions Involving Effects to Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and 
Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum and Their Critical Habitat

Jeopardy Standard
    The Service applies an analytical framework for Arenaria ursina, 
Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum jeopardy 
analyses that relies heavily on the importance of core area populations 
to the survival and recovery of these species. The section 7(a)(2) 
analysis is focused not only on these populations but also on the 
habitat conditions necessary to support them.
    The jeopardy analysis usually expresses the survival and recovery 
needs of Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi 
var. austromontanum in a qualitative fashion without making 
distinctions between what is necessary for survival and what is 
necessary for recovery. Generally, if a proposed Federal action is 
incompatible with the viability of the affected core area 
population(s), inclusive of associated habitat conditions, a jeopardy 
finding is considered to be warranted, because of the relationship of 
each core area population to the survival and recovery of the species 
as a whole.
Adverse Modification Standard
    The analytical framework described in the Director's December 9, 
2004, memorandum will be used to complete section 7(a)(2) analyses for 
Federal actions affecting critical habitat for Arenaria ursina, 
Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum. The key 
factor related to the adverse modification determination is whether, 
with implementation of the proposed Federal action, the affected 
critical habitat would remain functional (or retain the current ability 
for the primary constituent elements to be functionally established) to 
serve its intended conservation role for the species. Generally, the 
conservation role of critical habitat units for these species is to 
support viable core area populations.
    Section 4(b)(8) of the Act requires us to briefly evaluate and 
describe in any proposed or final regulation that designates critical 
habitat those activities involving a Federal action that may destroy or 
adversely modify such habitat, or that may be affected by such 
designation. Activities that may destroy or adversely modify critical 
habitat may also jeopardize the continued existence of the species.
    Activities that may destroy or adversely modify critical habitat 
are those that alter the PCEs to an extent that the conservation value 
of critical habitat for Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, or 
Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum is appreciably reduced. 
Activities that, when carried out, funded, or authorized by a Federal 
agency, may affect critical habitat and therefore result in 
consultation for the Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, or Eriogonum 
kennedyi var. austromontanum include, but are not limited to the 
following (please see the ``Special Management Considerations or 
Protection'' section for a more detailed discussion on the impacts of 
these actions to the listed species):
    (1) Actions that result in ground disturbance to pebble plains. 
Such activities could include, but are not limited to: Residential or 
recreational development, OHV activity, dispersed recreation, new road 
construction or widening, existing road maintenance, and grazing (such 
as cattle and burros). These activities could impact pebble plains by 
damaging or eliminating habitat, altering soil composition due to 
increased erosion, and allowing nonnative invasive plant species to 
invade. In addition, changes in the soil composition may lead to 
cascading changes in the vegetation composition, such as growth of 
shrub cover that decreases density or eliminates pebble plain species.
    (2) Actions that result in alteration of the hydrological regime of 
the pebble plain habitat. Such activities could include residential or 
recreational development adjacent to pebble plains, OHV activity, 
dispersed recreation, new road construction or widening, and existing 
road maintenance. These activities could alter surface layers and 
hydrological regime in a manner that promotes loss of clay components 
of soil matrix necessary to support the growth and reproduction of the 
pebble plain species.
    All of the units and subunits proposed as critical habitat contain 
features essential to the conservation of Arenaria ursina, Castilleja 
cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum. Federal agencies 
already consult with us on activities in areas currently occupied by 
Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. 
austromontanum or if these species may be affected by the action, to 
ensure that their actions do not jeopardize the continued existence of 
these species.

Exclusions Under Section 4(b)(2) of the Act

    Section 4(b)(2) of the Act states that critical habitat shall be 
designated, and revised, on the basis of the best available scientific 
data after taking into consideration the economic impact, national 
security impact, and any other relevant impact, of specifying any 
particular area as critical habitat. The Secretary may exclude an area 
from critical habitat if he determines that the benefits of such 
exclusion outweigh the benefits of specifying such area as part of the 
critical habitat, unless he determines, based on the best scientific

[[Page 67727]]

data available, that the failure to designate such area as critical 
habitat will result in the extinction of the species. In making that 
determination, the Secretary is afforded broad discretion, and the 
Congressional record is clear that in making a determination under the 
section the Secretary has discretion as to which factors to consider 
and how much weight will be given to any factor.
    Under section 4(b)(2), in considering whether to exclude a 
particular area from the designation, we must identify the benefits of 
including the area in the designation, identify the benefits of 
excluding the area from the designation, and determine whether the 
benefits of exclusion outweigh the benefits of inclusion. If an 
exclusion is contemplated, then we must determine whether excluding the 
area would result in the extinction of the species. In the following 
sections, we address a number of general issues that are relevant to 
any exclusions we may consider.
    We are not aware of any habitat conservation plans under 
development for Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, or Eriogonum 
kennedyi var. austromontanum on any lands included in this proposal, 
and the proposed designation does not include any Tribal lands or trust 
resources. During the development of this proposal, we coordinated with 
SBNF staff to seek input on the appropriate areas to include in 
proposed critical habitat that would be essential to Arenaria ursina, 
Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum on SBNF 
lands.
    We examined the USFS's 2002 Pebble Plain Management Guide 
(Management Guide), which was designed to provide management direction 
for the conservation of pebble plain habitat in the SBNF, to aid in 
recovery of the three federally listed plants, and to improve 
conditions for Forest Sensitive species occurring in this habitat and 
identifies the following management goals and actions necessary to 
reduce impacts to pebble plain habitat: protecting pebble plain habitat 
throughout its geographic range, reducing habitat loss and 
fragmentation, maintaining site viability, and encouraging compatible 
uses (USFS 2002, p. i).
    We also examined the USFS's Revised Land and Resource Management 
Plans for the Four Southern California Forests, California (Forest 
Plan) that was approved in September 2005, and the Service's biological 
opinion that was issued on the Forest Plan on September 15, 2005. While 
the USFS has implemented many of the actions outlined in the Management 
Guide and Forest Plan, we believe ongoing unauthorized activities 
continue to require special management. Therefore, we are not proposing 
to exclude any areas under section 4(b)(2) of the Act.
    The Service is conducting an economic analysis of the impacts of 
the proposed critical habitat designation and related factors, which 
will be available for public review and comment. Based on public 
comment on that document, the proposed designation itself, and the 
information in the final economic analysis, habitat containing 
essential features for Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, or 
Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum may be excluded from final 
critical habitat by the Secretary under the provisions of section 
4(b)(2) of the Act. This is provided for in the Act, and in our 
implementing regulations at 50 CFR 424.19.

Economic Analysis

    An analysis of the economic impacts of proposing critical habitat 
for Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. 
austromontanum is being prepared. We will announce the availability of 
the draft economic analysis as soon as it is completed, at which time 
we will seek public review and comment. At that time, copies of the 
draft economic analysis will be available for downloading from the 
Internet at http://www.fws.gov/carlsbad or by contacting the Carlsbad 
Fish and Wildlife Office directly (see ADDRESSES).

Peer Review

    In accordance with our joint policy published in the Federal 
Register on July 1, 1994 (59 FR 34270), we will seek the expert 
opinions of at least three appropriate and independent specialists 
regarding this proposed rule. The purpose of such review is to ensure 
that our critical habitat designation is based on scientifically sound 
data, assumptions, and analyses. We will send copies of this proposed 
rule to these peer reviewers copies immediately following publication 
in the Federal Register. We will invite these peer reviewers to 
comment, during the public comment period, on the specific assumptions 
and conclusions regarding the proposed designation of critical habitat.
    We will consider all comments and information received during the 
comment period on this proposed rule during preparation of a final 
rulemaking. Accordingly, the final decision may differ from this 
proposal.

Public Hearings

    The Act provides for one or more public hearings on this proposal, 
if requested. Requests for public hearings must be made in writing at 
least 15 days prior to the close of the public comment period. We will 
schedule public hearings on this proposal, if any are requested, and 
announce the dates, times, and places of those hearings in the Federal 
Register and local newspapers at least 15 days prior to the first 
hearing.

Clarity of the Rule

    Executive Order 12866 requires each agency to write regulations and 
notices that are easy to understand. We invite your comments on how to 
make this proposed rule easier to understand, including answers to 
questions such as the following: (1) Are the requirements in the 
proposed rule clearly stated? (2) Does the proposed rule contain 
technical jargon that interferes with the clarity? (3) Does the format 
of the proposed rule (grouping and order of the sections, use of 
headings, paragraphing, and so forth) aid or reduce its clarity? (4) Is 
the description of the notice in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section 
of the preamble helpful in understanding the proposed rule? (5) What 
else could we do to make this proposed rule easier to understand?
    Send a copy of any comments on how we could make this proposed rule 
easier to understand to: Office of Regulatory Affairs, Department of 
the Interior, Room 7229, 1849 C Street, NW., Washington, DC 20240. You 
may e-mail your comments to this address: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#51142922343211383e227f353e387f363e27"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="cb8eb3b8aea88ba2a4b8e5afa4a2e5aca4bd">[email protected]</span></a>.

Required Determinations

Regulatory Planning and Review

    In accordance with Executive Order 12866, this document is a 
significant rule in that it may raise novel legal and policy issues, 
but it is not anticipated to have an annual effect on the economy of 
$100 million or more or affect the economy in a material way. Due to 
the tight timeline for publication in the Federal Register, the Office 
of Management and Budget (OMB) has not formally reviewed this rule. We 
are preparing a draft economic analysis of this proposed action, which 
will be available for public comment, to determine the economic 
consequences of designating the specific area as critical habitat. This 
economic analysis also will be used to determine compliance with 
Executive Order 12866, Regulatory Flexibility Act, Small Business 
Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act, Executive Order 12630,

[[Page 67728]]

Executive Order 13211, and Executive Order 12875.
    Within these areas, the types of Federal actions or authorized 
activities that we have identified as potential concerns are listed 
above in the section on Section 7 Consultation. The availability of the 
draft economic analysis will be announced in the Federal Register and 
in local newspapers so that it is available for public review and 
comments. The draft economic analysis can be obtained from the Internet 
Web site at http://www.fws.gov/carlsbad or by contacting the Carlsbad 
Fish and Wildlife Office directly (see ADDRESSES).

Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.)

    Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., as 
amended by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act 
(SBREFA) of 1996), whenever an agency is required to publish a notice 
of rulemaking for any proposed or final rule, it must prepare and make 
available for public comment a regulatory flexibility analysis that 
describes the effects of the rule on small entities (small businesses, 
small organizations, and small government jurisdictions). However, no 
regulatory flexibility analysis is required if the head of the agency 
certifies the rule will not have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities. The SBREFA amended the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act (RFA) to require Federal agencies to provide a 
statement of the factual basis for certifying that the rule will not 
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities.
    At this time, the Service lacks the available economic information 
necessary to provide an adequate factual basis for the required RFA 
finding. Therefore, the RFA finding is deferred until completion of the 
draft economic analysis prepared under to section 4(b)(2) of the Act 
and E.O. 12866. This draft economic analysis will provide the required 
factual basis for the RFA finding. Upon completion of the draft 
economic analysis, the Service will publish a notice of availability of 
the draft economic analysis of the proposed designation and reopen the 
public comment period for the proposed designation for an additional 60 
days. The Service will include with the notice of availability, as 
appropriate, an initial regulatory flexibility analysis or a 
certification that the rule will not have a significant economic impact 
on a substantial number of small entities accompanied by the factual 
basis for that determination. The Service has concluded that deferring 
the RFA finding until completion of the draft economic analysis is 
necessary to meet the purposes and requirements of the RFA. Deferring 
the RFA finding in this manner will ensure that the Service makes a 
sufficiently informed determination based on adequate economic 
information and provides the necessary opportunity for public comment.

Executive Order 13211

    On May 18, 2001, the President issued an Executive Order (E.O. 
13211) on regulations that significantly affect energy supply, 
distribution, and use. Executive Order 13211 requires agencies to 
prepare Statements of Energy Effects when undertaking certain actions. 
Although this proposed rule to designate critical habitat for Arenaria 
ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum 
is a significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866, it is 
not expected to significantly affect energy supplies, distribution, or 
use. Therefore, this action is not a significant energy action and no 
Statement of Energy Effects is required.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.)

    In accordance with the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 
1501), the Service makes the following findings:
    (a) This rule will not produce a Federal mandate. In general, a 
Federal mandate is a provision in legislation, statute or regulation 
that would impose an enforceable duty upon State, local, tribal 
governments, or the private sector and includes both ``Federal 
intergovernmental mandates'' and ``Federal private sector mandates.'' 
These terms are defined in 2 U.S.C. 658(5)-(7). ``Federal 
intergovernmental mandate'' includes a regulation that ``would impose 
an enforceable duty upon State, local, or tribal governments'' with two 
exceptions. It excludes ``a condition of Federal assistance.'' It also 
excludes ``a duty arising from participation in a voluntary Federal 
program,'' unless the regulation ``relates to a then-existing Federal 
program under which $500,000,000 or more is provided annually to State, 
local, and tribal governments under entitlement authority,'' if the 
provision would ``increase the stringency of conditions of assistance'' 
or ``place caps upon, or otherwise decrease, the Federal Government's 
responsibility to provide funding,'' and the State, local, or tribal 
governments ``lack authority'' to adjust accordingly. At the time of 
enactment, these entitlement programs were: Medicaid; AFDC work 
programs; Child Nutrition; Food Stamps; Social Services Block Grants; 
Vocational Rehabilitation State Grants; Foster Care, Adoption 
Assistance, and Independent Living; Family Support Welfare Services; 
and Child Support Enforcement. ``Federal private sector mandate'' 
includes a regulation that ``would impose an enforceable duty upon the 
private sector, except (i) a condition of Federal assistance or (ii) a 
duty arising from participation in a voluntary Federal program.''
    The designation of critical habitat does not impose a legally 
binding duty on non-Federal government entities or private parties. 
Under the Act, the only regulatory effect is that Federal agencies must 
ensure that their actions do not destroy or adversely modify critical 
habitat under section 7. While non-Federal entities that receive 
Federal funding, assistance, or permits, or that otherwise require 
approval or authorization from a Federal agency for an action, may be 
indirectly impacted by the designation of critical habitat, the legally 
binding duty to avoid destruction or adverse modification of critical 
habitat rests squarely on the Federal agency. Furthermore, to the 
extent that non-Federal entities are indirectly impacted because they 
receive Federal assistance or participate in a voluntary Federal aid 
program, the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act would not apply; nor would 
critical habitat shift the costs of the large entitlement programs 
listed above on to State governments.
    Due to current public knowledge of the species' protection and the 
fact that virtually all of the proposed critical habitat is on Federal 
lands, we do not anticipate that this rule will significantly or 
uniquely affect small governments. As such, Small Government Agency 
Plan is not required. However, we will further evaluate this issue as 
we conduct our economic analysis and revise this assessment if 
appropriate.

Takings

    In accordance with Executive Order 12630 (``Government Actions and 
Interference with Constitutionally Protected Private Property 
Rights''), we have analyzed the potential takings implications of 
designating critical habitat for the Arenaria ursina, Castilleja 
cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum in a takings 
implications assessment. The takings implications assessment concludes 
that this designation of critical habitat for the Arenaria ursina,

[[Page 67729]]

Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum does not 
pose significant takings implications. However, we will further 
evaluate this issue as we conduct our economic analysis and review and 
revise this assessment as warranted.

Federalism

    In accordance with Executive Order 13132, the rule does not have 
significant Federalism effects. A Federalism assessment is not 
required. In keeping with DOI and Department of Commerce policy, we 
requested information from, and coordinated development of, this 
proposed critical habitat designation with appropriate State resource 
agencies in California. The designation of critical habitat in areas 
currently occupied by Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, or Eriogonum 
kennedyi var. austromontanum imposes no additional restrictions to 
those currently in place and, therefore, has little incremental impact 
on State and local governments and their activities. The designation 
may have some benefit to these governments in that the areas that 
contain the features essential to the conservation of the species are 
more clearly defined, and the primary constituent elements of the 
habitat necessary to the conservation of the species are specifically 
identified. While making this definition and identification does not 
alter where and what federally sponsored activities may occur, it may 
assist these local governments in long-range planning (rather than 
waiting for case-by-case section 7 consultations to occur).

Civil Justice Reform

    In accordance with Executive Order 12988, the Office of the 
Solicitor has determined that the rule does not unduly burden the 
judicial system and meets the requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) 
of the Order. We have proposed designating critical habitat in 
accordance with the provisions of the Endangered Species Act. This 
proposed rule uses standard property descriptions and identifies the 
primary constituent elements within the designated areas to assist the 
public in understanding the habitat needs of Arenaria ursina, 
Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum.

Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.)

    This rule does not contain any new collections of information that 
require approval by OMB under the Paperwork Reduction Act. This rule 
will not impose recordkeeping or reporting requirements on State or 
local governments, individuals, businesses, or organizations. An agency 
may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, 
a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB 
control number.

National Environmental Policy Act

    It is our position that, outside the Tenth Circuit, we do not need 
to prepare environmental analyses as defined by the NEPA in connection 
with designating critical habitat under the Endangered Species Act of 
1973, as amended. We published a notice outlining our reasons for this 
determination in the Federal Register on October 25, 1983 (48 FR 
49244). This assertion was upheld in the courts of the Ninth Circuit 
(Douglas County v. Babbitt, 48 F.3d 1495 (9th Cir. Ore. 1995), cert. 
denied 116 S. Ct. 698 (1996).

Government-to-Government Relationship With Tribes

    In accordance with the President's memorandum of April 29, 1994, 
``Government-to-Government Relations with Native American Tribal 
Governments'' (59 FR 22951), Executive Order 13175, and the Department 
of Interior's manual at 512 DM 2, we readily acknowledge our 
responsibility to communicate meaningfully with recognized Federal 
Tribes on a government-to-government basis. We have determined that 
there are no Tribal lands supporting habitat for Arenaria ursina, 
Castilleja cinerea, or Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum that 
meets the definition of critical habitat. Therefore, designation of 
critical habitat for Arenaria ursina, Castilleja cinerea, and Eriogonum 
kennedyi var. austromontanum has not been proposed on Tribal lands.

References Cited

    A complete list of all references cited in this rulemaking is 
available upon request from the Field Supervisor, Carlsbad Fish and 
Wildlife Office (see ADDRESSES section).

Author(s)

    The primary author of this package is the staff of the Carlsbad 
Fish and Wildlife Office.

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17

    Endangered and threatened species, Exports, Imports, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Transportation.

Proposed Regulation Promulgation

    Accordingly, we propose to amend part 17, subchapter B of chapter 
I, title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as set forth below:

PART 17--[AMENDED]

    1. The authority citation for part 17 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361-1407; 16 U.S.C. 1531-1544; 16 U.S.C. 
4201-4245; Pub. L. 99-625, 100 Stat. 3500; unless otherwise noted.

    2. In Sec.  17.12(h), revise the entries for ``Arenaria ursina'', 
``Castilleja cinerea'', and ``Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum'' 
under ``FLOWERING PLANTS'' to read as follows:


Sec.  17.12  Endangered and threatened plants.

* * * * *
    (h) * * *

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        Species
--------------------------------------------------------    Historic range           Family            Status      When listed    Critical     Special
         Scientific name                Common name                                                                               habitat       rules
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Flowering Plants
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
Arenaria ursina..................  Bear Valley sandwort  U.S.A. (CA)........  Caryophyllaceae....  T                       644     17.96(a)           NA
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
Castilleja cinerea...............  Ash-gray Indian       U.S.A. (CA)........  Orobanchaceae......  T                       644     17.96(a)           NA
                                    paintbrush.
 

[[Page 67730]]

 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
Eriogonum kennedyi var.            Southern mountain     U.S.A. (CA)........  Polygonaceae.......  T                       644     17.96(a)           NA
 austromontanum.                    wild-buckwheat.
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    3. In Sec.  17.96(a), as set forth below:
    a. Add ``Family Caryophyllaceae'' and ``Family Orobanchaceae'' in 
alphabetical order of the family names;
    b. Add a critical habitat entry for ``Arenaria ursina'' under 
Family Caryophyllaceae and a critical habitat entry for ``Castilleja 
cinerea'' under Family Orobanchaeae; and
    c. Add a critical habitat entry for ``Eriogonum kennedyi var. 
austromontanum'' in alphabetical order under Family Polygonaceae.


Sec.  17.96  Critical habitat--plants.

* * * * *
    (a) Flowering plants.
* * * * *

Family Caryophyllaceae: Arenaria ursina (Bear Valley sandwort)

    (1) Critical habitat units for this species are found in San 
Bernardino County, California. The critical habitat units designated 
for this species are related to those set forth elsewhere in this 
section for Family Orobanchaceae: Castilleja cinerea (Ash-gray Indian 
paintbrush) and Family Polygonaceae: Eriogonum kennedyi var. 
austromontanum (Southern mountain wild-buckwheat). Because all of the 
critical habitat units for these three species are designated for 
Family Orobanchaceae: Castilleja cinerea (Ash-gray Indian paintbrush), 
the units are set forth in text and depicted on the maps in the 
critical habitat entry for that species.
    (2) The primary constituent elements of critical habitat for 
Arenaria ursina are the habitat components that provide:
    (i) Pebble plains or dry meadows in openings within upper montane 
coniferous forest, pinyon-juniper woodlands, or Mojavean desert scrub 
in the San Bernardino Mountains of San Bernardino County, California, 
at elevations between 5,900 to 9,800 feet (1,830 to 2,990 meters) that 
provide space for individual and population growth, reproduction, and 
dispersal; and
    (ii) Seasonally wet clay or sandy, clay soils, generally containing 
quartzite pebbles, subject to natural hydrological processes that 
include water hydrating the soil and freezing in winter and drying in 
summer causing lifting and churning of included pebbles, to provide 
adequate water, air, minerals, and other nutritional or physiological 
requirements to the species.
    (3) Critical habitat does not include manmade structures (such as 
buildings, aqueducts, airports, roads, and other paved areas) and the 
land on which they are located existing on the effective date of this 
rule and not containing one or more of the primary constituent 
elements.
    (4) The applicable units and subunits of critical habitat for 
Arenaria ursina are 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 5A, 5B, 6A, 6B, 7A, 
8A, 8B, 10, 11A, and 11B in the critical habitat entry for Family 
Orobanchaceae: Castilleja cinerea (Ash-gray Indian paintbrush).
* * * * *

Family Orobanchaceae: Castilleja cinerea (Ash-Gray Indian Paintbrush)

    (1) Critical habitat units for this species are found in San 
Bernardino County, California. The critical habitat units designated 
for this species are related to those set forth elsewhere in this 
section for Family Caryophyllaceae: Arenaria ursina (Bear Valley 
sandwort) and Family Polygonaceae: Eriogonum kennedyi var. 
austromontanum (Southern mountain wild-buckwheat). Because all of 
critical habitat units for these three species are designated for 
Castilleja cinerea, the units are set forth in text and depicted on the 
maps below in the entry for this species.
    (2) The primary constituent elements of critical habitat for 
Castilleja cinerea are the habitat components that provide:
    (i) Pebble plains or dry meadows in openings within upper montane 
coniferous forest, pinyon-juniper woodlands, or Mojavean desert scrub 
in the San Bernardino Mountains of San Bernardino County, California, 
at elevations between 5,900 to 9,800 feet (1,830 to 2,990 meters) that 
provide space for individual and population growth, reproduction, and 
dispersal;
    (ii) Seasonally wet clay or sandy, clay soils, generally containing 
quartzite pebbles, subject to natural hydrological processes that 
include water hydrating the soil and freezing in winter and drying in 
summer causing lifting and churning of included pebbles, to provide 
adequate water, air, minerals, and other nutritional or physiological 
requirements to the species; and
    (iii) The presence of one or more of its known host species such as 
Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum, E. k. var. kennedyi, and E. 
wrightii var. subscaposumon in pebble plain habitat and species such as 
Artemisia tridentata, A. nova, and E. wrightii var. subscaposumon in 
pebble plain and non-pebble plain habitat that provide some of the 
physiological requirements for this species.
    (3) Critical habitat does not include manmade structures (such as 
buildings, aqueducts, airports, roads, and other paved areas) and the 
land on which they are located existing on the effective date of this 
rule and not containing one or more of the primary constituent 
elements.
    (4) Critical habitat map units. Data layers defining map units were 
created on a base of USGS 1:24,0000 maps, and critical habitat units 
were then mapped using Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) coordinates.
    (5) The applicable units and subunits of critical habitat for 
Castilleja cinerea are 1A, 1B, 2A, 2B, 3A, 3B, 4A, 4B, 4C, 5A, 5B, 5C, 
6A, 6B, 7A, 7B, 8A, 8B, 9, 10, 11A, and 11B.
    (6) Note: Index map of critical habitat units for Family 
Caryophyllaceae: Arenaria ursina (Bear Valley sandwort), Family 
Orobanchaceae: Castilleja cinerea (Ash-gray Indian paintbrush), and 
Family Polygonaceae: Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum (Southern 
mountain wild-buckwheat) (Map 1) follows:
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    (7) Unit 1: Arrastre/Union Flat, San Bernardino County, California. 
From USGS 1:24,000 quadrangle map Big Bear City.
    (i) Subunit 1A. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 coordinates 
(E,N): 512434, 3795966; 512436, 3795961; 512446, 3795966; 512450, 
3795966; 512469, 3795969; 512508, 3795965; 512533, 3795959; 512537, 
3795959; 512539, 3795960; 512549, 3795964; 512560, 3795961; 512568, 
3795954; 512573, 3795948; 512573, 3795936; 512571, 3795930; 512568, 
3795927; 512565, 3795927; 512563, 3795927; 512563, 3795924; 512561, 
3795914; 512556, 3795904; 512555, 3795903; 512554, 3795901; 512548, 
3795879; 512535, 3795835; 512544, 3795791; 512546, 3795790; 512554, 
3795787; 512568, 3795779; 512576, 3795774; 512582, 3795771; 512592, 
3795764; 512595, 3795753; 512595, 3795747; 512591, 3795739; 512584, 
3795732; 512581, 3795731; 512575, 3795727; 512569, 3795727; 512560, 
3795728; 512552, 3795733; 512544, 3795739; 512542, 3795740; 512541, 
3795739; 512540, 3795738; 512525, 3795717; 512469, 3795694; 512447, 
3795680; 512445, 3795679; 512427, 3795653; 512428, 3795649; 512450, 
3795617; 512476, 3795588; 512476, 3795588; 512504, 3795564; 512514, 
3795552; 512541, 3795525; 512546, 3795509; 512548, 3795508; 512553, 
3795501; 512554, 3795500; 512558, 3795490; 512566, 3795479; 512573, 
3795468; 512584, 3795444; 512586, 3795433; 512588, 3795412; 512594, 
3795398; 512601, 3795395; 512607, 3795395; 512627, 3795401; 512632, 
3795400; 512641, 3795402; 512654, 3795400; 512675, 3795405; 512691, 
3795401; 512699, 3795397; 512703, 3795397; 512707, 3795394; 512715, 
3795393; 512718, 3795391; 512730, 3795388; 512740, 3795378; 512742, 
3795374; 512746, 3795371; 512770, 3795357; 512806, 3795330; 512815, 
3795317; 512837, 3795311; 512856, 3795327; 512872, 3795330; 512883, 
3795343; 512886, 3795339; 512900, 3795331; 512905, 3795319; 512909, 
3795312; 512913, 3795307; 512913, 3795306; 512913, 3795305; 512914, 
3795303; 512920, 3795287; 512924, 3795286; 512935, 3795275; 512938, 
3795270; 512944, 3795264; 512948, 3795258; 512953, 3795250; 512955, 
3795245; 512954, 3795239; 512953, 3795233; 512949, 3795225; 512946, 
3795221; 512949, 3795219; 512976, 3795203; 512998, 3795196; 513008, 
3795189; 513014, 3795187; 513019, 3795183; 513030, 3795176; 513031, 
3795173; 513048, 3795163; 513049, 3795158; 513051, 3795154; 513053, 
3795150; 513053, 3795143; 513053, 3795142; 513056, 3795131; 513053, 
3795122; 513053, 3795109; 513055, 3795098; 513059, 3795095; 513062, 
3795091; 513066, 3795086; 513069, 3795084; 513072, 3795077; 513076, 
3795073; 513079, 3795066; 513080, 3795064; 513083, 3795057; 513083, 
3795052; 513083, 3795047; 513082, 3795043; 513080, 3795036; 513080, 
3795034; 513079, 3795025; 513077, 3795018; 513075, 3795011; 513075, 
3795007; 513072, 3794999; 513069, 3794994; 513066, 3794989; 513058, 
3794982; 513053, 3794982; 513047, 3794982; 513037, 3794982; 513035, 
3794981; 513017, 3794975; 513010, 3794975; 513006, 3794978; 513000, 
3794981; 512993, 3794985; 512988, 3794988; 512973, 3794993; 512965, 
3794993; 512960, 3794991; 512951, 3794990; 512944, 3794988; 512938, 
3794987; 512934, 3794988; 512924, 3794989; 512915, 3794991; 512897, 
3794997; 512886, 3795001; 512875, 3795007; 512866, 3795012; 512852, 
3795026; 512850, 3795031; 512847, 3795037; 512848, 3795042; 512848, 
3795045; 512856, 3795057; 512861, 3795057; 512871, 3795053; 512875, 
3795052; 512883, 3795047; 512863, 3795065; 512861, 3795066; 512853, 
3795072; 512853, 3795075; 512847, 3795081; 512851, 3795097; 512867, 
3795120; 512875, 3795132; 512879, 3795132; 512881, 3795135; 512913, 
3795143; 512919, 3795177; 512903, 3795187; 512899, 3795188; 512884, 
3795190; 512840, 3795190; 512839, 3795192; 512835, 3795194; 512826, 
3795195; 512825, 3795196; 512811, 3795199; 512812, 3795203; 512811, 
3795204; 512811, 3795217; 512800, 3795241; 512793, 3795247; 512785, 
3795251; 512778, 3795254; 512765, 3795263; 512732, 3795279; 512696, 
3795299; 512648, 3795303; 512621, 3795315; 512618, 3795316; 512607, 
3795318; 512601, 3795321; 512585, 3795327; 512561, 3795335; 512558, 
3795344; 512555, 3795349; 512545, 3795359; 512533, 3795366; 512510, 
3795373; 512508, 3795373; 512500, 3795376; 512498, 3795372; 512497, 
3795370; 512495, 3795367; 512492, 3795368; 512490, 3795372; 512490, 
3795379; 512489, 3795379; 512484, 3795381; 512485, 3795387; 512482, 
3795398; 512482, 3795418; 512485, 3795432; 512484, 3795433; 512486, 
3795443; 512486, 3795452; 512453, 3795490; 512413, 3795508; 512409, 
3795509; 512408, 3795507; 512406, 3795499; 512398, 3795500; 512390, 
3795509; 512386, 3795512; 512354, 3795501; 512340, 3795496; 512357, 
3795495; 512366, 3795491; 512362, 3795478; 512360, 3795467; 512361, 
3795466; 512364, 3795462; 512368, 3795462; 512373, 3795469; 512376, 
3795462; 512392, 3795462; 512392, 3795461; 512393, 3795461; 512401, 
3795463; 512406, 3795462; 512408, 3795459; 512429, 3795455; 512432, 
3795454; 512437, 3795449; 512437, 3795446; 512434, 3795435; 512431, 
3795430; 512434, 3795422; 512433, 3795419; 512434, 3795416; 512432, 
3795410; 512433, 3795405; 512430, 3795402; 512428, 3795397; 512423, 
3795395; 512421, 3795393; 512393, 3795381; 512369, 3795385; 512368, 
3795386; 512367, 3795386; 512351, 3795394; 512339, 3795398; 512339, 
3795414; 512342, 3795418; 512342, 3795425; 512350, 3795437; 512339, 
3795449; 512324, 3795455; 512306, 3795472; 512299, 3795481; 512283, 
3795473; 512264, 3795473; 512249, 3795472; 512248, 3795473; 512247, 
3795473; 512237, 3795473; 512228, 3795473; 512223, 3795475; 512207, 
3795477; 512189, 3795483; 512172, 3795485; 512165, 3795492; 512163, 
3795493; 512156, 3795496; 512155, 3795496; 512150, 3795497; 512149, 
3795498; 512135, 3795504; 512124, 3795510; 512100, 3795517; 512095, 
3795519; 512080, 3795516; 512060, 3795516; 512044, 3795536; 512052, 
3795560; 512056, 3795588; 512064, 3795616; 512064, 3795617; 512065, 
3795620; 512081, 3795644; 512087, 3795650; 512088, 3795651; 512089, 
3795652; 512101, 3795664; 512123, 3795675; 512123, 3795688; 512123, 
3795695; 512122, 3795699; 512119, 3795715; 512111, 3795727; 512119, 
3795747; 512125, 3795759; 512133, 3795784; 512135, 3795798; 512143, 
3795822; 512155, 3795842; 512171, 3795857; 512199, 3795878; 512223, 
3795886; 512228, 3795889; 512235, 3795890; 512242, 3795892; 512248, 
3795895; 512282, 3795913; 512334, 3795929; 512377, 3795941; 512380, 
3795941; 512383, 3795942; 512387, 3795942; 512394, 3795943; 512397, 
3795947; 512412, 3795966; 512417, 3795971; 512422, 3795975; 512427, 
3795979; 512430, 3795978; 512434, 3795966.
    (ii) Subunit 1B. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 
coordinates (E,N): 513282, 3797202; 513312, 3797195; 513346, 3797179; 
513347, 3797179; 513352, 3797178; 513378, 3797155; 513382, 3797151; 
513404, 3797137; 513430, 3797126; 513434, 3797122; 513438, 3797119; 
513475, 3797110; 513503, 3797106; 513500, 3797115; 513500, 3797124; 
513510, 3797137; 513520, 3797137; 513532, 3797131; 513545, 3797124; 
513554, 3797111; 513554, 3797108; 513567, 3797110; 513599, 3797116; 
513650,

[[Page 67733]]

3797107; 513655, 3797103; 513659, 3797103; 513666, 3797099; 513668, 
3797098; 513694, 3797083; 513708, 3797069; 513727, 3797057; 513758, 
3797027; 513788, 3796985; 513797, 3796978; 513801, 3796976; 513815, 
3796968; 513834, 3796962; 513876, 3796962; 513926, 3796970; 513952, 
3796981; 513956, 3796985; 513979, 3797000; 514002, 3797019; 514028, 
3797035; 514070, 3797061; 514093, 3797069; 514129, 3797075; 514136, 
3797079; 514216, 3797087; 514238, 3797082; 514329, 3797076; 514364, 
3797073; 514406, 3797069; 514444, 3797046; 514455, 3797019; 514448, 
3797004; 514444, 3797001; 514441, 3796991; 514418, 3796945; 514401, 
3796935; 514398, 3796928; 514393, 3796914; 514396, 3796911; 514384, 
3796831; 514384, 3796806; 514387, 3796798; 514383, 3796764; 514375, 
3796741; 514362, 3796721; 514357, 3796709; 514343, 3796691; 514329, 
3796661; 514318, 3796650; 514303, 3796631; 514288, 3796623; 514276, 
3796625; 514270, 3796622; 514239, 3796625; 514197, 3796645; 514171, 
3796637; 514166, 3796635; 514151, 3796626; 514106, 3796587; 514064, 
3796561; 514003, 3796519; 513965, 3796488; 513946, 3796458; 513946, 
3796457; 513959, 3796433; 513996, 3796392; 514005, 3796381; 514022, 
3796370; 514030, 3796350; 514036, 3796343; 514043, 3796339; 514101, 
3796309; 514102, 3796309; 514108, 3796307; 514111, 3796304; 514142, 
3796287; 514170, 3796255; 514215, 3796208; 514291, 3796164; 514355, 
3796119; 514424, 3796055; 514439, 3796024; 514451, 3796009; 514449, 
3795971; 514450, 3795964; 514443, 3795894; 514441, 3795891; 514440, 
3795890; 514393, 3795830; 514332, 3795801; 514321, 3795800; 514291, 
3795789; 514262, 3795785; 514258, 3795783; 514231, 3795781; 514227, 
3795781; 514226, 3795781; 514155, 3795776; 514144, 3795785; 514116, 
3795789; 514088, 3795817; 514047, 3795891; 514018, 3795938; 514005, 
3795973; 513980, 3796014; 513957, 3796046; 513948, 3796055; 513865, 
3796109; 513828, 3796145; 513797, 3796168; 513780, 3796186; 513762, 
3796200; 513760, 3796201; 513723, 3796230; 513687, 3796286; 513678, 
3796295; 513674, 3796304; 513669, 3796313; 513661, 3796338; 513655, 
3796353; 513652, 3796365; 513634, 3796408; 513630, 3796430; 513628, 
3796432; 513627, 3796434; 513625, 3796439; 513622, 3796448; 513622, 
3796451; 513619, 3796455; 513615, 3796461; 513612, 3796466; 513607, 
3796471; 513601, 3796475; 513594, 3796479; 513581, 3796480; 513579, 
3796481; 513577, 3796481; 513568, 3796491; 513563, 3796494; 513561, 
3796495; 513560, 3796500; 513560, 3796506; 513560, 3796508; 513562, 
3796511; 513567, 3796513; 513573, 3796517; 513578, 3796520; 513586, 
3796523; 513592, 3796524; 513582, 3796530; 513580, 3796555; 513590, 
3796564; 513595, 3796566; 513601, 3796566; 513598, 3796573; 513589, 
3796592; 513581, 3796602; 513570, 3796605; 513551, 3796618; 513539, 
3796656; 513548, 3796669; 513548, 3796676; 513571, 3796707; 513590, 
3796760; 513590, 3796810; 513587, 3796851; 513586, 3796856; 513584, 
3796863; 513571, 3796887; 513565, 3796881; 513546, 3796877; 513512, 
3796881; 513489, 3796900; 513481, 3796923; 513481, 3796924; 513465, 
3796924; 513438, 3796920; 513432, 3796923; 513431, 3796922; 513380, 
3796910; 513348, 3796878; 513329, 3796849; 513326, 3796805; 513300, 
3796757; 513293, 3796749; 513291, 3796739; 513275, 3796710; 513273, 
3796706; 513268, 3796698; 513256, 3796676; 513232, 3796652; 513204, 
3796636; 513196, 3796629; 513168, 3796629; 513162, 3796631; 513162, 
3796628; 513162, 3796619; 513158, 3796609; 513155, 3796603; 513149, 
3796597; 513138, 3796593; 513131, 3796584; 513128, 3796581; 513148, 
3796577; 513167, 3796562; 513167, 3796528; 513152, 3796516; 513146, 
3796511; 513141, 3796511; 513118, 3796501; 513119, 3796501; 513131, 
3796493; 513134, 3796488; 513145, 3796482; 513149, 3796466; 513145, 
3796450; 513137, 3796434; 513126, 3796434; 513115, 3796429; 513106, 
3796427; 513100, 3796425; 513087, 3796427; 513085, 3796426; 513082, 
3796427; 513085, 3796425; 513089, 3796424; 513094, 3796423; 513099, 
3796421; 513103, 3796421; 513107, 3796420; 513109, 3796419; 513120, 
3796414; 513122, 3796411; 513123, 3796407; 513123, 3796401; 513121, 
3796389; 513110, 3796387; 513089, 3796387; 513085, 3796387; 513080, 
3796383; 513075, 3796378; 513069, 3796376; 513065, 3796378; 513061, 
3796380; 513038, 3796401; 513031, 3796403; 513022, 3796403; 513016, 
3796403; 513010, 3796404; 513007, 3796408; 512998, 3796427; 512993, 
3796432; 512984, 3796432; 512976, 3796431; 512967, 3796430; 512958, 
3796430; 512948, 3796431; 512942, 3796435; 512942, 3796440; 512943, 
3796447; 512947, 3796453; 512958, 3796458; 512968, 3796460; 512981, 
3796461; 512990, 3796462; 512998, 3796461; 513002, 3796462; 513000, 
3796463; 512996, 3796465; 512992, 3796472; 512986, 3796477; 512982, 
3796485; 512977, 3796493; 512985, 3796499; 512986, 3796501; 512996, 
3796509; 513006, 3796518; 513003, 3796519; 513001, 3796524; 513001, 
3796528; 513003, 3796531; 513006, 3796533; 513013, 3796536; 513026, 
3796540; 513031, 3796543; 513019, 3796558; 513004, 3796600; 513004, 
3796623; 513001, 3796637; 513009, 3796690; 513024, 3796717; 513039, 
3796763; 513070, 3796797; 513089, 3796843; 513096, 3796872; 513099, 
3796901; 513095, 3796915; 513094, 3796917; 513076, 3796939; 513072, 
3796962; 513087, 3796975; 513089, 3796980; 513123, 3797003; 513126, 
3797015; 513126, 3797031; 513106, 3797069; 513087, 3797088; 513084, 
3797137; 513096, 3797163; 513103, 3797175; 513141, 3797195; 513182, 
3797197; 513184, 3797197; 513218, 3797201; 513240, 3797201; 513255, 
3797202; 513282, 3797202.
    (iii) Note: Map of Unit 1, Subunits 1A and 1B (Map 2), follows:
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    (8) Unit 2: Big Bear Lake, San Bernardino County, California. From 
USGS 1:24,000 quadrangle map Big Bear Lake.
    (i) Subunit 2A. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 coordinates 
(E, N): 506933, 3788172; 506933, 3788172; 507055, 3788172; 507058, 
3788169; 507058, 3788169; 507166, 3788172; 507208, 3788170; 507213, 
3788165; 507215, 3788157; 507213, 3788134; 507205, 3788104; 507197, 
3788062; 507176, 3788009; 507151, 3787955; 507123, 3787915; 507111, 
3787897; 507087, 3787865; 507069, 3787840; 507045, 3787831; 507043, 
3787831; 507040, 3787820; 507041, 3787818; 507036, 3787807; 507036, 
3787807; 507036, 3787806; 507036, 3787806; 507025, 3787783; 507009, 
3787755; 507006, 3787754; 507000, 3787747; 506974, 3787747; 506974, 
3787747; 506973, 3787747; 506968, 3787747; 506967, 3787748; 506954, 
3787751; 506938, 3787779; 506942, 3787811; 506954, 3787842; 506966, 
3787866; 506974, 3787869; 506956, 3787901; 506949, 3787935; 506941, 
3787974; 506938, 3788020; 506941, 3788043; 506939, 3788042; 506926, 
3788042; 506907, 3788042; 506901, 3788049; 506892, 3788058; 506885, 
3788071; 506885, 3788093; 506888, 3788115; 506895, 3788135; 506911, 
3788153; 506933, 3788160; 506933, 3788172.
    (ii) Subunit 2B. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 
coordinates (E, N): 507777, 3788001; 507780, 3787993; 507783, 3788009; 
507791, 3788029; 507801, 3788015; 507806, 3788013; 507806, 3788005; 
507811, 3787989; 507811, 3787973; 507811, 3787949; 507810, 3787946; 
507810, 3787941; 507807, 3787932; 507806, 3787930; 507804, 3787929; 
507803, 3787925; 507802, 3787925; 507790, 3787909; 507764, 3787877; 
507732, 3787851; 507704, 3787839; 507688, 3787829; 507686, 3787828; 
507682, 3787826; 507682, 3787827; 507678, 3787826; 507674, 3787876; 
507666, 3787929; 507659, 3787975; 507659, 3788001; 507669, 3788023; 
507682, 3788035; 507707, 3788042; 507729, 3788042; 507752, 3788036; 
507767, 3788013; 507769, 3788006; 507777, 3788001.
    (iii) Note: Map of Unit 2, Subunits 2A and 2B (Map 3), follows:

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[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP22NO06.002

BILLING CODE 4310-55-C

[[Page 67737]]

    (9) Unit 3: Broom Flat, San Bernardino County, California. From 
USGS 1:24,000 quadrangle map Onyx Peak.
    (i) Subunit 3A. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 coordinates 
(E,N): 525644, 3786958; 525650, 3786943; 525657, 3786886; 525619, 
3786867; 525580, 3786879; 525577, 3786894; 525574, 3786905; 525542, 
3786911; 525498, 3786892; 525473, 3786847; 525450, 3786817; 525440, 
3786790; 525442, 3786753; 525491, 3786702; 525528, 3786682; 525545, 
3786658; 525552, 3786616; 525518, 3786601; 525472, 3786618; 525418, 
3786655; 525374, 3786645; 525352, 3786596; 525312, 3786569; 525288, 
3786552; 525285, 3786508; 525261, 3786459; 525229, 3786435; 525185, 
3786425; 525148, 3786423; 525114, 3786442; 525107, 3786462; 525112, 
3786503; 525121, 3786543; 525151, 3786587; 525190, 3786606; 525202, 
3786658; 525246, 3786724; 525278, 3786795; 525327, 3786873; 525374, 
3786910; 525377, 3786968; 525396, 3786994; 525428, 3787032; 525469, 
3787091; 525533, 3787152; 525580, 3787209; 525619, 3787254; 525644, 
3787311; 525657, 3787355; 525688, 3787387; 525733, 3787419; 525746, 
3787419; 525771, 3787444; 525771, 3787508; 525777, 3787565; 525771, 
3787616; 525777, 3787641; 525815, 3787629; 525834, 3787597; 525860, 
3787552; 525898, 3787527; 525911, 3787495; 525904, 3787457; 525904, 
3787425; 525892, 3787368; 525860, 3787324; 525828, 3787260; 525784, 
3787203; 525777, 3787152; 525765, 3787127; 525733, 3787121; 525688, 
3787076; 525644, 3787019; 525638, 3786974; 525644, 3786958.
    (ii) Subunit 3B. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 
coordinates (E,N): 525111, 3785431; 525155, 3785406; 525142, 3785419; 
525199, 3785419; 525250, 3785412; 525307, 3785393; 525365, 3785362; 
525378, 3785345; 525421, 3785349; 525497, 3785323; 525558, 3785296; 
525600, 3785262; 525661, 3785220; 525706, 3785197; 525744, 3785182; 
525813, 3785170; 525870, 3785170; 525950, 3785201; 526053, 3785243; 
526125, 3785292; 526198, 3785323; 526247, 3785330; 526297, 3785338; 
526358, 3785338; 526411, 3785327; 526457, 3785292; 526491, 3785262; 
526529, 3785227; 526556, 3785170; 526556, 3785132; 526552, 3785079; 
526548, 3785022; 526540, 3784978; 526562, 3784983; 526585, 3784983; 
526610, 3784977; 526632, 3784967; 526642, 3784945; 526639, 3784907; 
526632, 3784885; 526616, 3784847; 526604, 3784834; 526588, 3784815; 
526575, 3784789; 526562, 3784774; 526617, 3784774; 526651, 3784759; 
526651, 3784751; 526662, 3784735; 526662, 3784724; 526642, 3784701; 
526625, 3784671; 526614, 3784655; 526626, 3784653; 526636, 3784634; 
526632, 3784615; 526616, 3784593; 526604, 3784577; 526594, 3784567; 
526582, 3784558; 526575, 3784548; 526562, 3784542; 526550, 3784535; 
526547, 3784534; 526522, 3784488; 526509, 3784440; 526506, 3784412; 
526495, 3784379; 526459, 3784332; 526457, 3784330; 526449, 3784321; 
526434, 3784252; 526415, 3784229; 526418, 3784219; 526423, 3784219; 
526430, 3784207; 526436, 3784191; 526442, 3784178; 526445, 3784162; 
526439, 3784151; 526445, 3784130; 526476, 3784019; 526510, 3783943; 
526522, 3783890; 526541, 3783795; 526567, 3783692; 526579, 3783627; 
526606, 3783581; 526647, 3783490; 526680, 3783446; 526713, 3783425; 
526764, 3783396; 526818, 3783371; 526861, 3783342; 526873, 3783324; 
526876, 3783323; 526878, 3783320; 526913, 3783270; 526922, 3783257; 
526963, 3783235; 526981, 3783233; 527032, 3783219; 527050, 3783204; 
527064, 3783175; 527075, 3783143; 527071, 3783137; 527074, 3783128; 
527051, 3783117; 527037, 3783121; 527006, 3783124; 526970, 3783139; 
526945, 3783150; 526930, 3783150; 526898, 3783168; 526872, 3783183; 
526869, 3783183; 526840, 3783163; 526840, 3783139; 526843, 3783117; 
526861, 3783088; 526890, 3783052; 526911, 3783037; 526907, 3783059; 
526904, 3783081; 526901, 3783107; 526917, 3783113; 526926, 3783107; 
526939, 3783094; 526946, 3783072; 526955, 3783069; 526958, 3783062; 
526961, 3783031; 526961, 3783008; 526960, 3783003; 526974, 3782994; 
526978, 3782969; 526979, 3782968; 526979, 3782967; 526981, 3782954; 
526976, 3782944; 526975, 3782934; 526937, 3782873; 526904, 3782868; 
526894, 3782863; 526880, 3782865; 526853, 3782861; 526788, 3782899; 
526724, 3782957; 526678, 3783010; 526653, 3783029; 526644, 3783034; 
526634, 3783043; 526613, 3783059; 526600, 3783077; 526571, 3783103; 
526524, 3783161; 526489, 3783206; 526476, 3783219; 526473, 3783226; 
526448, 3783262; 526452, 3783284; 526470, 3783284; 526495, 3783297; 
526493, 3783306; 526477, 3783327; 526441, 3783378; 526419, 3783393; 
526408, 3783425; 526401, 3783469; 526394, 3783531; 526390, 3783585; 
526381, 3783631; 526351, 3783704; 526339, 3783719; 526299, 3783803; 
526269, 3783859; 526263, 3783867; 526261, 3783869; 526234, 3783893; 
526221, 3783921; 526209, 3783936; 526113, 3784063; 526089, 3784082; 
526072, 3784131; 526026, 3784168; 526012, 3784180; 525995, 3784180; 
525987, 3784194; 525958, 3784212; 525951, 3784270; 525969, 3784310; 
526016, 3784379; 526029, 3784402; 526038, 3784423; 526068, 3784501; 
526071, 3784513; 526089, 3784575; 526109, 3784589; 526125, 3784624; 
526125, 3784644; 526103, 3784691; 526089, 3784702; 526083, 3784713; 
526072, 3784721; 526062, 3784751; 526049, 3784775; 526052, 3784781; 
526049, 3784789; 526065, 3784836; 526067, 3784883; 526064, 3784909; 
526060, 3784931; 525995, 3784927; 525944, 3784916; 525912, 3784910; 
525882, 3784896; 525828, 3784881; 525786, 3784858; 525737, 3784850; 
525710, 3784854; 525630, 3784865; 525573, 3784888; 525508, 3784927; 
525478, 3784965; 525455, 3785003; 525382, 3785037; 525360, 3785067; 
525328, 3785099; 525326, 3785095; 525301, 3785044; 525263, 3785019; 
525238, 3785063; 525231, 3785120; 525206, 3785165; 525206, 3785203; 
525187, 3785247; 525149, 3785273; 525072, 3785298; 524965, 3785304; 
524926, 3785298; 524869, 3785292; 524799, 3785323; 524799, 3785362; 
524831, 3785406; 524869, 3785444; 524876, 3785470; 524914, 3785489; 
524933, 3785501; 524984, 3785495; 525022, 3785482; 525066, 3785470; 
525111, 3785431.
    (iii) Note: Map of Unit 3, Subunits 3A and 3B (Map 4), follows:
BILLING CODE 4310-55-P

[[Page 67738]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP22NO06.003


[[Page 67739]]


    (10) Unit 4: Fawnskin, San Bernardino County, California. From USGS 
1:24,000 quadrangle map Fawnskin.
    (i) Subunit 4A. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 coordinates 
(E, N): 506020, 3792309; 506020, 3792303; 506001, 3792335; 506014, 
3792404; 506014, 3792468; 506001, 3792538; 505982, 3792557; 505963, 
3792595; 505950, 3792639; 505937, 3792671; 505944, 3792703; 505994, 
3792722; 506039, 3792722; 506109, 3792684; 506147, 3792665; 506191, 
3792627; 506229, 3792582; 506217, 3792525; 506166, 3792493; 506121, 
3792462; 506109, 3792442; 506109, 3792417; 506096, 3792392; 506077, 
3792373; 506052, 3792335; 506020, 3792309.
    (ii) Subunit 4B. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 
coordinates (E, N): 506636, 3791541; 506604, 3791490; 506547, 3791496; 
506534, 3791515; 506515, 3791579; 506522, 3791661; 506502, 3791757; 
506490, 3791807; 506502, 3791852; 506547, 3791941; 506579, 3792017; 
506610, 3792100; 506629, 3792182; 506649, 3792220; 506668, 3792233; 
506687, 3792227; 506680, 3792214; 506693, 3792182; 506706, 3792138; 
506712, 3792074; 506725, 3792036; 506706, 3791928; 506680, 3791846; 
506674, 3791801; 506674, 3791744; 506668, 3791674; 506655, 3791623; 
506636, 3791541.
    (iii) Subunit 4C. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 
coordinates (E, N): 509277, 3790880; 509264, 3790854; 509248, 3790857; 
509229, 3790873; 509223, 3790908; 509223, 3790943; 509226, 3790972; 
509232, 3790991; 509261, 3791003; 509273, 3790988; 509277, 3790969; 
509273, 3790943; 509277, 3790908; 509277, 3790880.
    (iv) Note: Map of Unit 4, Subunits 4A, 4B, and 4C (Map 5), follows:

[[Page 67740]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP22NO06.004


[[Page 67741]]


    (11) Unit 5: Gold Mountain, San Bernardino County, California. From 
USGS 1:24,000 quadrangle map Big Bear City.
    (i) Subunit 5A. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 coordinates 
(E, N): 516297, 3793523; 516342, 3793514; 516374, 3793491; 516405, 
3793447; 516412, 3793390; 516424, 3793352; 516421, 3793333; 516437, 
3793335; 516450, 3793331; 516463, 3793309; 516466, 3793281; 516465, 
3793279; 516475, 3793268; 516469, 3793227; 516447, 3793207; 516421, 
3793189; 516380, 3793166; 516345, 3793154; 516311, 3793139; 516272, 
3793103; 516244, 3793081; 516215, 3793077; 516187, 3793090; 516206, 
3793135; 516202, 3793144; 516207, 3793149; 516196, 3793141; 516172, 
3793137; 516163, 3793137; 516157, 3793137; 516154, 3793135; 516147, 
3793133; 516132, 3793125; 516128, 3793123; 516109, 3793112; 516096, 
3793112; 516095, 3793112; 516081, 3793111; 516065, 3793105; 516045, 
3793109; 516017, 3793126; 516016, 3793127; 516006, 3793132; 516003, 
3793145; 515998, 3793153; 515995, 3793166; 515988, 3793165; 515980, 
3793163; 515971, 3793161; 515961, 3793161; 515956, 3793162; 515943, 
3793162; 515926, 3793178; 515919, 3793180; 515912, 3793182; 515905, 
3793188; 515899, 3793193; 515893, 3793198; 515884, 3793209; 515881, 
3793219; 515879, 3793220; 515793, 3793243; 515732, 3793233; 515685, 
3793220; 515647, 3793211; 515577, 3793211; 515536, 3793230; 515507, 
3793261; 515501, 3793303; 515501, 3793335; 515542, 3793357; 515586, 
3793360; 515625, 3793357; 515666, 3793341; 515707, 3793335; 515761, 
3793338; 515809, 3793354; 515828, 3793376; 515851, 3793399; 515851, 
3793403; 515848, 3793408; 515845, 3793414; 515844, 3793417; 515842, 
3793424; 515842, 3793431; 515843, 3793438; 515839, 3793448; 515845, 
3793446; 515849, 3793444; 515856, 3793439; 515860, 3793433; 515872, 
3793430; 515873, 3793429; 515879, 3793443; 515901, 3793468; 515904, 
3793468; 515910, 3793468; 515917, 3793461; 515921, 3793461; 515935, 
3793473; 515980, 3793495; 516015, 3793501; 516082, 3793514; 516132, 
3793514; 516212, 3793520; 516262, 3793527; 516297, 3793523.
    (ii) Subunit 5B. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 
coordinates (E, N): 516768, 3792969; 516744, 3792965; 516720, 3792965; 
516705, 3792961; 516685, 3792953; 516673, 3792949; 516652, 3792935; 
516645, 3792926; 516642, 3792923; 516641, 3792918; 516633, 3792898; 
516633, 3792891; 516633, 3792891; 516623, 3792868; 516621, 3792864; 
516585, 3792863; 516581, 3792865; 516578, 3792862; 516562, 3792870; 
516560, 3792871; 516556, 3792871; 516545, 3792873; 516540, 3792875; 
516521, 3792875; 516510, 3792864; 516502, 3792855; 516496, 3792848; 
516490, 3792840; 516477, 3792833; 516463, 3792824; 516461, 3792822; 
516450, 3792804; 516447, 3792800; 516438, 3792788; 516423, 3792784; 
516410, 3792780; 516377, 3792769; 516375, 3792768; 516364, 3792763; 
516319, 3792740; 516318, 3792740; 516311, 3792737; 516304, 3792731; 
516298, 3792731; 516283, 3792725; 516279, 3792728; 516271, 3792727; 
516229, 3792731; 516176, 3792758; 516157, 3792773; 516130, 3792803; 
516127, 3792815; 516119, 3792849; 516138, 3792891; 516157, 3792925; 
516180, 3792952; 516203, 3792979; 516233, 3793009; 516268, 3793036; 
516274, 3793041; 516275, 3793055; 516282, 3793087; 516298, 3793112; 
516329, 3793125; 516364, 3793131; 516453, 3793154; 516520, 3793160; 
516590, 3793166; 516610, 3793155; 516641, 3793150; 516668, 3793139; 
516694, 3793116; 516717, 3793093; 516732, 3793074; 516748, 3793055; 
516759, 3793039; 516770, 3793024; 516772, 3793012; 516775, 3793010; 
516778, 3793004; 516778, 3793004; 516780, 3793001; 516784, 3792993; 
516783, 3792989; 516783, 3792987; 516783, 3792987; 516783, 3792987; 
516782, 3792985; 516780, 3792983; 516780, 3792981; 516777, 3792979; 
516777, 3792978; 516775, 3792975; 516773, 3792971; 516772, 3792971; 
516772, 3792971; 516771, 3792971; 516769, 3792970; 516768, 3792969.
    (iii) Subunit 5C. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 
coordinates (E,N): 517804, 3791769; 517801, 3791754; 517782, 3791754; 
517766, 3791765; 517766, 3791780; 517774, 3791792; 517782, 3791796; 
517804, 3791792; 517804, 3791769.
    (iv) Note: Map of Unit 5, Subunits 5A, 5B, 5C, 7A, and 7B (Map 6), 
follows:

[[Page 67742]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP22NO06.005


[[Page 67743]]


    (12) Unit 6: Holcomb Valley, San Bernardino County, California. 
From USGS 1:24,000 quadrangle map Fawnskin.
    (i) Subunit 6A. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 coordinates 
(E, N): 506727, 3796049; 506738, 3796035; 506743, 3796031; 506761, 
3796001; 506765, 3795985; 506767, 3795981; 506783, 3795942; 506785, 
3795915; 506787, 3795910; 506790, 3795878; 506784, 3795872; 506782, 
3795867; 506779, 3795843; 506773, 3795840; 506772, 3795835; 506767, 
3795833; 506752, 3795821; 506730, 3795818; 506689, 3795818; 506663, 
3795823; 506634, 3795825; 506624, 3795837; 506612, 3795847; 506606, 
3795854; 506597, 3795862; 506571, 3795881; 506571, 3795883; 506557, 
3795893; 506544, 3795910; 506529, 3795930; 506530, 3795930; 506528, 
3795934; 506565, 3795933; 506565, 3795935; 506574, 3795964; 506600, 
3795986; 506635, 3796001; 506633, 3796023; 506631, 3796041; 506632, 
3796041; 506644, 3796045; 506663, 3796042; 506681, 3796042; 506707, 
3796045; 506715, 3796049; 506727, 3796049. Land bounded by the 
following UTM NAD27 coordinates (E, N): 506666, 3795511; 506661, 
3795481; 506647, 3795471; 506625, 3795463; 506622, 3795462; 506612, 
3795476; 506604, 3795484; 506602, 3795500; 506591, 3795480; 506584, 
3795455; 506569, 3795435; 506569, 3795428; 506562, 3795409; 506556, 
3795389; 506547, 3795351; 506537, 3795317; 506532, 3795310; 506524, 
3795303; 506512, 3795298; 506504, 3795291; 506495, 3795298; 506492, 
3795307; 506487, 3795328; 506483, 3795347; 506477, 3795372; 506472, 
3795393; 506470, 3795416; 506466, 3795433; 506463, 3795457; 506468, 
3795488; 506472, 3795510; 506474, 3795533; 506477, 3795567; 506485, 
3795593; 506494, 3795624; 506507, 3795657; 506517, 3795687; 506534, 
3795715; 506555, 3795736; 506549, 3795747; 506552, 3795771; 506564, 
3795799; 506572, 3795807; 506600, 3795819; 506616, 3795811; 506617, 
3795807; 506620, 3795805; 506635, 3795794; 506639, 3795763; 506641, 
3795759; 506670, 3795753; 506695, 3795750; 506705, 3795731; 506695, 
3795712; 506690, 3795703; 506692, 3795687; 506687, 3795672; 506679, 
3795655; 506689, 3795626; 506705, 3795598; 506708, 3795575; 506689, 
3795550; 506677, 3795540; 506676, 3795537; 506666, 3795511.
    (ii) Subunit 6B. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 
coordinates (E, N): 509943, 3794740; 509997, 3794674; 510070, 3794623; 
510076, 3794591; 510073, 3794585; 510044, 3794562; 510003, 3794556; 
510054, 3794518; 510105, 3794477; 510124, 3794477; 510194, 3794473; 
510219, 3794442; 510222, 3794391; 510168, 3794347; 510105, 3794283; 
510067, 3794201; 510054, 3794162; 510013, 3794124; 509999, 3794124; 
509999, 3794118; 509996, 3794110; 509991, 3794106; 509987, 3794102; 
509981, 3794099; 509975, 3794097; 509968, 3794095; 509961, 3794096; 
509955, 3794096; 509950, 3794098; 509946, 3794101; 509940, 3794109; 
509940, 3794115; 509940, 3794122; 509943, 3794131; 509947, 3794139; 
509911, 3794159; 509908, 3794173; 509894, 3794173; 509886, 3794181; 
509874, 3794221; 509894, 3794256; 509914, 3794284; 509943, 3794302; 
509943, 3794305; 509893, 3794327; 509858, 3794375; 509839, 3794404; 
509807, 3794445; 509782, 3794480; 509747, 3794531; 509668, 3794579; 
509639, 3794617; 509643, 3794633; 509635, 3794642; 509648, 3794660; 
509649, 3794664; 509664, 3794674; 509668, 3794674; 509674, 3794667; 
509680, 3794664; 509682, 3794659; 509737, 3794651; 509797, 3794623; 
509800, 3794620; 509787, 3794641; 509771, 3794660; 509747, 3794684; 
509743, 3794708; 509747, 3794731; 509755, 3794743; 509775, 3794743; 
509791, 3794735; 509806, 3794729; 509803, 3794743; 509822, 3794772; 
509902, 3794759; 509943, 3794740.
    (iii) Note: Unit 6, Subunits 6A and 6B (Map 7), follows:
BILLING CODE 4310-55-P

[[Page 67744]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP22NO06.006

BILLING CODE 4310-55-C

[[Page 67745]]

    (13) Unit 7: North Baldwin Lake, San Bernardino County, California. 
From USGS 1:24,000 quadrangle map Big Bear City.
    (i) Subunit 7A. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 coordinates 
(E, N): 516160, 3795525; 516163, 3795551; 516182, 3795563; 516194, 
3795563; 516198, 3795566; 516240, 3795559; 516278, 3795551; 516308, 
3795555; 516331, 3795578; 516396, 3795605; 516406, 3795603; 516415, 
3795605; 516453, 3795601; 516491, 3795578; 516491, 3795574; 516491, 
3795551; 516472, 3795525; 516466, 3795501; 516465, 3795486; 516468, 
3795452; 516480, 3795422; 516486, 3795415; 516518, 3795399; 516552, 
3795379; 516598, 3795380; 516649, 3795388; 516655, 3795391; 516654, 
3795425; 516658, 3795442; 516685, 3795452; 516698, 3795449; 516708, 
3795431; 516716, 3795406; 516765, 3795429; 516807, 3795448; 516810, 
3795448; 516834, 3795456; 516857, 3795452; 516906, 3795429; 516933, 
3795410; 516960, 3795383; 516971, 3795361; 516986, 3795334; 517009, 
3795299; 517032, 3795262; 517063, 3795223; 517097, 3795181; 517110, 
3795163; 517131, 3795140; 517165, 3795101; 517184, 3795090; 517207, 
3795083; 517211, 3795082; 517269, 3795104; 517278, 3795133; 517272, 
3795170; 517264, 3795193; 517230, 3795239; 517196, 3795288; 517154, 
3795349; 517150, 3795370; 517146, 3795376; 517139, 3795399; 517141, 
3795414; 517139, 3795425; 517146, 3795448; 517154, 3795471; 517211, 
3795517; 517245, 3795521; 517314, 3795517; 517360, 3795509; 517381, 
3795485; 517386, 3795479; 517388, 3795476; 517402, 3795460; 517413, 
3795433; 517440, 3795387; 517460, 3795371; 517489, 3795353; 517506, 
3795341; 517520, 3795334; 517584, 3795315; 517611, 3795292; 517653, 
3795261; 517672, 3795219; 517699, 3795159; 517718, 3795115; 517749, 
3795078; 517759, 3795070; 517786, 3795052; 517809, 3795029; 517840, 
3794999; 517841, 3794997; 517851, 3794987; 517882, 3794923; 517908, 
3794881; 517917, 3794871; 517939, 3794854; 517981, 3794819; 518023, 
3794812; 518038, 3794812; 518095, 3794819; 518152, 3794816; 518155, 
3794815; 518171, 3794816; 518202, 3794804; 518251, 3794778; 518339, 
3794755; 518411, 3794732; 518461, 3794724; 518461, 3794713; 518457, 
3794698; 518442, 3794683; 518439, 3794680; 518438, 3794679; 518415, 
3794652; 518458, 3794642; 518462, 3794598; 518443, 3794587; 518438, 
3794583; 518413, 3794573; 518371, 3794577; 518322, 3794586; 518279, 
3794597; 518246, 3794608; 518230, 3794614; 518206, 3794614; 518133, 
3794617; 518117, 3794619; 518097, 3794610; 518097, 3794615; 518097, 
3794618; 518098, 3794621; 518069, 3794625; 518061, 3794625; 518045, 
3794627; 518046, 3794602; 518045, 3794602; 518039, 3794605; 518034, 
3794609; 518019, 3794610; 518017, 3794611; 518019, 3794605; 518019, 
3794589; 518012, 3794567; 517993, 3794554; 517968, 3794567; 517946, 
3794573; 517936, 3794560; 517920, 3794548; 517914, 3794549; 517917, 
3794545; 517924, 3794535; 517931, 3794526; 517939, 3794516; 517948, 
3794503; 517954, 3794493; 517959, 3794482; 517964, 3794473; 517964, 
3794468; 517959, 3794461; 517950, 3794456; 517934, 3794458; 517923, 
3794462; 517905, 3794469; 517892, 3794475; 517882, 3794478; 517869, 
3794480; 517852, 3794480; 517859, 3794462; 517866, 3794439; 517889, 
3794413; 517927, 3794397; 517988, 3794404; 518030, 3794416; 518087, 
3794439; 518110, 3794450; 518141, 3794473; 518187, 3794489; 518187, 
3794490; 518222, 3794509; 518263, 3794506; 518311, 3794497; 518358, 
3794490; 518419, 3794490; 518476, 3794493; 518481, 3794494; 518521, 
3794504; 518558, 3794517; 518564, 3794521; 518569, 3794521; 518583, 
3794526; 518586, 3794527; 518612, 3794538; 518617, 3794537; 518631, 
3794533; 518632, 3794534; 518633, 3794533; 518663, 3794526; 518666, 
3794509; 518673, 3794503; 518666, 3794484; 518666, 3794453; 518652, 
3794447; 518644, 3794435; 518627, 3794432; 518620, 3794430; 518617, 
3794427; 518602, 3794424; 518587, 3794421; 518565, 3794411; 518549, 
3794409; 518508, 3794396; 518507, 3794395; 518505, 3794395; 518499, 
3794393; 518457, 3794385; 518453, 3794385; 518428, 3794373; 518387, 
3794376; 518358, 3794379; 518338, 3794383; 518327, 3794381; 518297, 
3794362; 518273, 3794328; 518272, 3794325; 518277, 3794321; 518281, 
3794312; 518281, 3794302; 518281, 3794291; 518279, 3794282; 518279, 
3794278; 518293, 3794271; 518316, 3794259; 518369, 3794248; 518415, 
3794244; 518426, 3794242; 518442, 3794241; 518455, 3794236; 518468, 
3794233; 518507, 3794221; 518533, 3794195; 518541, 3794175; 518552, 
3794157; 518554, 3794145; 518560, 3794134; 518558, 3794126; 518560, 
3794115; 518552, 3794092; 518539, 3794081; 518529, 3794065; 518480, 
3794069; 518474, 3794071; 518446, 3794073; 518407, 3794092; 518373, 
3794111; 518312, 3794145; 518305, 3794152; 518297, 3794157; 518280, 
3794177; 518270, 3794183; 518251, 3794179; 518221, 3794179; 518175, 
3794164; 518142, 3794157; 518099, 3794141; 518065, 3794130; 518030, 
3794122; 517965, 3794115; 517927, 3794103; 517901, 3794092; 517878, 
3794093; 517863, 3794088; 517830, 3794088; 517836, 3794390; 517634, 
3794390; 517639, 3794589; 517192, 3794589; 517160, 3794606; 517141, 
3794622; 517130, 3794635; 517123, 3794641; 517120, 3794653; 517119, 
3794657; 517112, 3794663; 517070, 3794705; 517068, 3794708; 517063, 
3794711; 517052, 3794723; 517046, 3794727; 517042, 3794731; 517041, 
3794732; 517036, 3794736; 517030, 3794739; 517025, 3794739; 517020, 
3794742; 517019, 3794742; 517014, 3794745; 517009, 3794751; 517014, 
3794755; 517025, 3794753; 517041, 3794746; 517040, 3794749; 516998, 
3794804; 516956, 3794839; 516952, 3794841; 516906, 3794865; 516883, 
3794884; 516856, 3794905; 516851, 3794907; 516849, 3794897; 516839, 
3794910; 516811, 3794919; 516735, 3794926; 516686, 3794937; 516674, 
3794938; 516657, 3794947; 516643, 3794953; 516613, 3794973; 516582, 
3794991; 516573, 3795005; 516567, 3795010; 516548, 3795037; 516525, 
3795059; 516522, 3795063; 516487, 3795098; 516483, 3795101; 516472, 
3795119; 516461, 3795136; 516443, 3795164; 516430, 3795185; 516420, 
3795212; 516419, 3795216; 516396, 3795265; 516377, 3795311; 516365, 
3795341; 516346, 3795368; 516304, 3795399; 516259, 3795433; 516198, 
3795471; 516175, 3795494; 516167, 3795501; 516168, 3795507; 516160, 
3795525.
    (ii) Subunit 7B. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 
coordinates (E, N): 516869, 3794211; 516844, 3794205; 516809, 3794214; 
516783, 3794239; 516764, 3794271; 516749, 3794300; 516733, 3794325; 
516720, 3794347; 516710, 3794376; 516695, 3794405; 516682, 3794424; 
516672, 3794449; 516669, 3794465; 516688, 3794475; 516723, 3794471; 
516742, 3794449; 516739, 3794421; 516745, 3794385; 516771, 3794351; 
516793, 3794329; 516822, 3794306; 516860, 3794275; 516879, 3794243; 
516869, 3794211.
    (iii) Note: Map of Unit 7, Subunit 7A and 7B (Map 6), is provided 
at paragraph (11)(iv) of this entry.
    (14) Unit 8, Sawmill, San Bernardino County, California. From USGS 
1:24,000 quadrangle maps Big Bear City and Moonridge.
    (i) Subunit 8A. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 coordinates 
(E, N): 513776, 3789263; 513753, 3789217; 513753, 3789214; 513750, 
3789205; 513748, 3789194; 513745, 3789182; 513744, 3789171; 513744, 
3789168;

[[Page 67746]]

513759, 3789161; 513765, 3789157; 513772, 3789154; 513780, 3789137; 
513792, 3789126; 513793, 3789113; 513798, 3789111; 513804, 3789105; 
513812, 3789102; 513826, 3789091; 513836, 3789093; 513846, 3789090; 
513853, 3789083; 513854, 3789059; 513850, 3789053; 513878, 3789041; 
513902, 3789017; 513905, 3789013; 513906, 3789010; 513913, 3789005; 
513913, 3789001; 513918, 3788993; 513918, 3788973; 513923, 3788961; 
513919, 3788942; 513926, 3788919; 513935, 3788882; 513948, 3788850; 
513957, 3788824; 513964, 3788796; 513957, 3788729; 513945, 3788701; 
513938, 3788672; 513935, 3788640; 513948, 3788599; 513964, 3788577; 
513986, 3788561; 513992, 3788542; 513999, 3788507; 514008, 3788472; 
514021, 3788448; 514027, 3788437; 514027, 3788415; 514030, 3788373; 
514030, 3788345; 514027, 3788326; 514002, 3788310; 513980, 3788313; 
513951, 3788323; 513916, 3788335; 513884, 3788342; 513850, 3788351; 
513821, 3788367; 513802, 3788380; 513767, 3788383; 513764, 3788382; 
513736, 3788357; 513698, 3788366; 513678, 3788395; 513653, 3788442; 
513650, 3788468; 513649, 3788469; 513634, 3788501; 513611, 3788529; 
513596, 3788545; 513592, 3788564; 513592, 3788573; 513608, 3788586; 
513630, 3788567; 513640, 3788548; 513649, 3788532; 513655, 3788526; 
513663, 3788525; 513672, 3788509; 513673, 3788506; 513675, 3788504; 
513697, 3788485; 513704, 3788479; 513728, 3788472; 513761, 3788481; 
513764, 3788488; 513768, 3788499; 513787, 3788551; 513781, 3788561; 
513779, 3788566; 513777, 3788572; 513775, 3788579; 513777, 3788585; 
513784, 3788591; 513809, 3788609; 513815, 3788611; 513820, 3788612; 
513823, 3788612; 513837, 3788627; 513843, 3788649; 513843, 3788659; 
513842, 3788660; 513830, 3788680; 513826, 3788709; 513821, 3788716; 
513811, 3788742; 513789, 3788818; 513789, 3788865; 513789, 3788897; 
513789, 3788923; 513776, 3788948; 513761, 3788973; 513742, 3788986; 
513735, 3789005; 513719, 3789024; 513703, 3789050; 513697, 3789059; 
513691, 3789069; 513678, 3789094; 513665, 3789113; 513653, 3789135; 
513652, 3789137; 513648, 3789140; 513624, 3789156; 513620, 3789168; 
513604, 3789184; 513600, 3789208; 513606, 3789220; 513606, 3789228; 
513608, 3789229; 513581, 3789259; 513591, 3789262; 513601, 3789262; 
513605, 3789257; 513608, 3789253; 513611, 3789247; 513621, 3789233; 
513636, 3789235; 513645, 3789230; 513648, 3789234; 513652, 3789230; 
513658, 3789229; 513662, 3789230; 513670, 3789236; 513674, 3789239; 
513679, 3789244; 513686, 3789364; 513695, 3789377; 513704, 3789381; 
513715, 3789379; 513719, 3789377; 513728, 3789372; 513730, 3789357; 
513724, 3789335; 513743, 3789335; 513747, 3789335; 513763, 3789331; 
513766, 3789326; 513772, 3789321; 513778, 3789313; 513781, 3789306; 
513783, 3789303; 513783, 3789275; 513778, 3789268; 513778, 3789266; 
513776, 3789263.
    (ii) Subunit 8B. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 
coordinates (E, N): 515098, 3789689; 515095, 3789689; 515057, 3789689; 
515014, 3789689; 515020, 3789706; 515021, 3789719; 515031, 3789764; 
515027, 3789815; 515027, 3789875; 515029, 3789884; 515029, 3789895; 
515034, 3789907; 515034, 3789909; 515035, 3789912; 515037, 3789923; 
515053, 3789964; 515054, 3789966; 515058, 3789977; 515063, 3789983; 
515066, 3789986; 515069, 3789988; 515077, 3789997; 515092, 3789990; 
515094, 3789989; 515104, 3789979; 515113, 3789974; 515120, 3789962; 
515128, 3789941; 515137, 3789925; 515140, 3789915; 515142, 3789911; 
515153, 3789887; 515153, 3789881; 515156, 3789875; 515148, 3789851; 
515132, 3789851; 515116, 3789851; 515113, 3789850; 515104, 3789865; 
515098, 3789869; 515091, 3789873; 515089, 3789873; 515077, 3789867; 
515066, 3789856; 515069, 3789834; 515073, 3789814; 515077, 3789790; 
515085, 3789759; 515089, 3789723; 515097, 3789691; 515098, 3789689.
    (iii) Note: Unit 8, Subunits 8A and 8B (Map 8), follows:
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    (15) Unit 9: Snow Valley, San Bernardino County, California. From 
USGS 1:24,000 quadrangle map Keller Peak.
    (i) Unit 9. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 coordinates 
(E,N): 496377, 3786874; 496368, 3786876; 496360, 3786876; 496349, 
3786874; 496333, 3786868; 496319, 3786861; 496300, 3786853; 496289, 
3786849; 496273, 3786842; 496263, 3786836; 496249, 3786830; 496241, 
3786825; 496236, 3786822; 496232, 3786816; 496224, 3786804; 496222, 
3786803; 496219, 3786810; 496219, 3786838; 496219, 3786840; 496235, 
3786873; 496248, 3786886; 496226, 3786935; 496210, 3786983; 496232, 
3787012; 496268, 3787015; 496296, 3787018; 496331, 3787041; 496338, 
3787085; 496370, 3787117; 496411, 3787124; 496459, 3787124; 496464, 
3787118; 496465, 3787118; 496473, 3787122; 496473, 3787120; 496476, 
3787110; 496481, 3787104; 496484, 3787099; 496484, 3787098; 496484, 
3787098; 496483, 3787098; 496491, 3787088; 496498, 3787069; 496500, 
3787067; 496500, 3787063; 496510, 3787038; 496549, 3787038; 496559, 
3787041; 496606, 3787054; 496622, 3787073; 496644, 3787133; 496638, 
3787175; 496638, 3787175; 496642, 3787184; 496654, 3787213; 496666, 
3787223; 496682, 3787235; 496743, 3787235; 496787, 3787226; 496797, 
3787213; 496800, 3787210; 496805, 3787196; 496809, 3787184; 496809, 
3787184; 496809, 3787184; 496809, 3787159; 496809, 3787159; 496809, 
3787159; 496799, 3787139; 496797, 3787133; 496790, 3787111; 496782, 
3787102; 496768, 3787086; 496758, 3787082; 496746, 3787076; 496717, 
3787057; 496713, 3787050; 496708, 3787041; 496704, 3787032; 496701, 
3787025; 496692, 3787013; 496692, 3786994; 496692, 3786994; 496692, 
3786994; 496689, 3786987; 496685, 3786978; 496673, 3786968; 496644, 
3786956; 496622, 3786946; 496609, 3786944; 496584, 3786940; 496568, 
3786934; 496552, 3786927; 496533, 3786923; 496511, 3786917; 496479, 
3786910; 496460, 3786905; 496449, 3786898; 496428, 3786886; 496404, 
3786884; 496393, 3786883; 496376, 3786876; 496377, 3786875; 496376, 
3786875; 496377, 3786874.
    (ii) Note: Map of Unit 9 (Map 9) follows:

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    (16) Unit 10: South Baldwin Ridge/Erwin Lake, San Bernardino 
County, California. From USGS 1:24,000 quadrangle map Big Bear City.
    (i) Unit 10. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 coordinates 
(E,N): 518798, 3790531; 518814, 3790499; 518836, 3790501; 518883, 
3790501; 518891, 3790493; 518942, 3790490; 519022, 3790477; 519063, 
3790455; 519104, 3790439; 519114, 3790429; 519108, 3790395; 519085, 
3790359; 519057, 3790347; 519012, 3790344; 518955, 3790357; 518923, 
3790404; 518900, 3790419; 518911, 3790389; 518923, 3790370; 518907, 
3790346; 518876, 3790342; 518839, 3790342; 518822, 3790331; 518821, 
3790331; 518820, 3790320; 518800, 3790313; 518797, 3790307; 518792, 
3790302; 518776, 3790291; 518766, 3790295; 518764, 3790297; 518763, 
3790296; 518744, 3790298; 518740, 3790308; 518737, 3790313; 518724, 
3790318; 518725, 3790327; 518714, 3790333; 518716, 3790337; 518707, 
3790343; 518699, 3790340; 518697, 3790342; 518695, 3790345; 518693, 
3790346; 518691, 3790351; 518685, 3790353; 518683, 3790359; 518682, 
3790364; 518683, 3790368; 518698, 3790377; 518704, 3790378; 518712, 
3790375; 518707, 3790379; 518666, 3790392; 518637, 3790398; 518629, 
3790391; 518618, 3790391; 518613, 3790387; 518613, 3790385; 518611, 
3790382; 518605, 3790378; 518600, 3790374; 518591, 3790377; 518580, 
3790376; 518568, 3790381; 518553, 3790380; 518545, 3790386; 518540, 
3790382; 518541, 3790379; 518541, 3790375; 518542, 3790373; 518540, 
3790371; 518538, 3790371; 518535, 3790374; 518533, 3790378; 518531, 
3790382; 518530, 3790387; 518529, 3790392; 518530, 3790397; 518532, 
3790400; 518536, 3790400; 518542, 3790399; 518550, 3790401; 518553, 
3790401; 518563, 3790404; 518567, 3790405; 518568, 3790403; 518570, 
3790401; 518574, 3790401; 518577, 3790399; 518583, 3790401; 518590, 
3790403; 518596, 3790399; 518596, 3790397; 518597, 3790397; 518602, 
3790395; 518604, 3790398; 518607, 3790400; 518609, 3790402; 518610, 
3790404; 518602, 3790406; 518597, 3790409; 518586, 3790409; 518562, 
3790429; 518582, 3790445; 518597, 3790453; 518595, 3790463; 518574, 
3790467; 518561, 3790460; 518541, 3790453; 518503, 3790453; 518490, 
3790477; 518517, 3790511; 518551, 3790531; 518632, 3790551; 518686, 
3790571; 518720, 3790579; 518740, 3790579; 518764, 3790562; 518798, 
3790531.
    (ii) Note: Map of Unit 10 (Map 10) follows:

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    (17) Unit 11: Sugarloaf Ridge, San Bernardino County, California. 
From USGS 1:24,000 quadrangle map Moonridge.
    (i) Subunit 11A. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 
coordinates (E,N): 521244, 3783525; 521340, 3783525; 521411, 3783533; 
521470, 3783533; 521550, 3783517; 521601, 3783537; 521617, 3783561; 
521669, 3783589; 521752, 3783569; 521824, 3783533; 521883, 3783493; 
521939, 3783453; 521959, 3783406; 521971, 3783351; 521982, 3783287; 
521975, 3783203; 521970, 3783181; 521967, 3783152; 521967, 3783101; 
521967, 3783072; 521951, 3783015; 521939, 3782987; 521897, 3782936; 
521875, 3782911; 521831, 3782891; 521793, 3782882; 521739, 3782888; 
521694, 3782888; 521650, 3782911; 521624, 3782926; 521602, 3782955; 
521561, 3782993; 521520, 3783066; 521485, 3783126; 521462, 3783203; 
521440, 3783228; 521380, 3783237; 521323, 3783241; 521266, 3783247; 
521228, 3783247; 521151, 3783237; 521075, 3783234; 521040, 3783237; 
520939, 3783250; 520894, 3783257; 520859, 3783279; 520862, 3783301; 
520856, 3783336; 520853, 3783371; 520852, 3783374; 520828, 3783382; 
520780, 3783410; 520764, 3783453; 520776, 3783521; 520784, 3783549; 
520784, 3783557; 520752, 3783628; 520764, 3783652; 520820, 3783684; 
520867, 3783692; 520927, 3783688; 520955, 3783652; 520994, 3783605; 
521022, 3783573; 521078, 3783549; 521109, 3783533; 521244, 3783525.
    (ii) Subunit 11B. Land bounded by the following UTM NAD27 
coordinates (E,N): 522459, 3784505; 522475, 3784502; 522490, 3784501; 
522542, 3784497; 522570, 3784493; 522573, 3784489; 522582, 3784489; 
522598, 3784448; 522601, 3784441; 522629, 3784382; 522640, 3784339; 
522641, 3784335; 522641, 3784333; 522645, 3784318; 522637, 3784302; 
522627, 3784289; 522625, 3784287; 522623, 3784285; 522621, 3784283; 
522607, 3784265; 522602, 3784251; 522602, 3784227; 522613, 3784195; 
522622, 3784177; 522637, 3784156; 522641, 3784144; 522640, 3784127; 
522641, 3784116; 522638, 3784107; 522637, 3784097; 522633, 3784091; 
522621, 3784064; 522586, 3784040; 522552, 3784021; 522534, 3784009; 
522531, 3784009; 522530, 3784009; 522486, 3784009; 522455, 3784013; 
522427, 3784044; 522387, 3784088; 522351, 3784135; 522347, 3784153; 
522340, 3784168; 522292, 3784188; 522268, 3784200; 522258, 3784217; 
522252, 3784223; 522256, 3784247; 522256, 3784255; 522280, 3784279; 
522289, 3784297; 522292, 3784306; 522308, 3784366; 522308, 3784397; 
522324, 3784449; 522327, 3784451; 522328, 3784454; 522339, 3784459; 
522359, 3784473; 522403, 3784493; 522447, 3784505; 522455, 3784504; 
522459, 3784505.
    (iii) Note: Map of Unit 11, Subunits 11A and 11B (Map 11), follows:

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* * * * *
    Family Polygonaceae: Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum 
(Southern mountain wild-buckwheat)
    (1) Critical habitat units for this species are found in San 
Bernardino County, California. The critical habitat units designated 
for this species are related to those set forth elsewhere in this 
section for Family Caryophyllaceae: Arenaria ursina (Bear Valley 
sandwort) and Family Orobanchaceae: Castilleja cinerea (Ash-gray Indian 
paintbrush). Because all of critical habitat units for these three 
species are designated for Family Orobanchaceae: Castilleja cinerea 
(Ash-gray Indian paintbrush), the units are set forth in text and 
depicted on the maps in the critical habitat entry for that species.
    (2) The primary constituent elements of critical habitat for 
Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum are the habitat components that 
provide:
    (i) Pebble plains or dry meadows in openings within upper montane 
coniferous forest, pinyon-juniper woodlands, or Mojavean desert scrub 
in the San Bernardino Mountains of San Bernardino County, California, 
at elevations between 5,900 to 9,800 feet (1,830 to 2,990 meters) that 
provide space for individual and population growth, reproduction, and 
dispersal; and
    (ii) Seasonally wet clay or sandy, clay soils, generally containing 
quartzite pebbles, subject to natural hydrological processes that 
include water hydrating the soil and freezing in winter and drying in 
summer causing lifting and churning of included pebbles, to provide 
adequate water, air, minerals, and other nutritional or physiological 
requirements to the species.
    (3) Critical habitat does not include manmade structures (such as 
buildings, aqueducts, airports, roads, and other paved areas) and the 
land on which they are located existing on the effective date of this 
rule and not containing one or more of the primary constituent 
elements.
    (4) The applicable units and subunits of critical habitat for 
Eriogonum kennedyi var. austromontanum are 1A, 1B, 2B, 3A, 4A, 4B, 5A, 
5B, 6A, 6B, 7A, 8A, 8B, and 10 in the critical habitat entry for Family 
Orobanchaceae: Castilleja cinerea (Ash-gray Indian paintbrush).
* * * * *

    Dated: November 1, 2006.
David M. Verhey,
Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.
[FR Doc. 06-9194 Filed 11-21-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-55-P


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