Resource 

AIR QUALITY

MANAGEMENT

CULTURAL AND

PALEONTOLOGICAL

RESOURCES

MANAGEMENT

Cultural Resources

Congressionally Designated

Historic Trails

(and associated

historic sites)

APPENDIX 3

GREEN RIVER LAND USE PLAN(S) OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS

APPLICABLE TO THE JMH PROJECT AREA ON BLM-ADMINISTERED PUBLIC LANDS

Objectives and Actions 

AIR-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To: 1) maintain and, where possible, enhance present air quality levels; 2) protect public health 

and safety and sensitive natural resources; and 3) within the scope of BLM's authority, minimize emissions which may add to acid 

rain, cause violations of air quality standards, or reduce visibility. 

AIR-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Special requirements to alleviate air quality impacts will be identified on a case-by-case basis and 

included in use authorizations (including mineral leases). Special requirements would include limiting emissions and restricted spacing 

of project locations. Industrial plant facilities could be located where they minimize air quality impacts. 

AIR-3 BLM will continue to participate with other agencies in the collection of air quality data and air quality pollution analysis. 

AIR-4 Surface disturbing activities will be managed to prevent violation of air quality regulations. Construction and surface disturbing 

activities will be designed with dust control measures to reduce general air quality impacts and visibility impacts. 

CULT-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To: 1) expand the opportunities for scientific study, and educational and interpretive uses 

of cultural and paleontological resources; 2) protect and preserve important cultural and paleontological resources and/or their 

historic record for future generations; and 3) resolve conflicts between cultural/paleontological resources and other resource uses. 

Of particular concern are significant sites of historic or prehistoric human habitation, sites demonstrating unique ethnic affiliation, places 

having traditional cultural significance to Native Americans, and vertebrate fossil localities. 

CULT-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Sites eligible for or listed on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) will be managed 

for their local, regional, and national significance, under the guidelines of the National Historic Preservation Act (especially sections 

106 and 110) and the Archeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA). These sites will be managed to ensure against adverse effects 

through proper mitigation, if disturbance or destruction is not avoidable. Management prescriptions for sites that are not eligible 

for the NRHP will be determined on a case-by-case basis according to values involved. 

CULT-3 The BLM will cooperate with the National Park Service in implementing the Oregon/Mormon Pioneer National Historic 

Trails Management Plan. 

CULT-4 Geophysical activities such as shotholes, blasting, and vibroseis locations could, generally, be allowed, provided they are at 

least 300 feet from the trail, do not occur directly on the trail, and a site specific analysis determines that visual intrusions and 

adverse effects will not occur. Trails are not available for use as industrial access roads. Blading of historic trails is not allowed unless 

necessary to protect life or property. 

CULT-5 The area within 1⁄4 mile or the visual horizon (whichever is less) of any contributing trail segment will be an avoidance area 

for surface disturbing activities. 

597
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

Congressionally Designated

Historic Trails

(continued)

Other Historic Trails and

Historic Sites

Rock Art Sites

Other Cultural Sites

and Areas

Objectives and Actions 

CULT-6 Motorized vehicles, such as those used for geophysical exploration, or large heavy vehicles such as buses used in recreational 

tours, or similar activities, could cross and drive down the trails, provided a site specific analysis determines that no adverse effects 

will occur. 

CULT-7 Management of historic roads and trails that are eligible for the NRHP but are not Congressionally designated will generally 

be the same as for designated trails including a 1⁄4 mile protective setback on either side of the trails. 

CULT-8 Geophysical activities such as shotholes, blasting, and vibroseis locations could, generally, be allowed, provided they are at 

least 300 feet from the trail, do not occur directly on the trail, and a site specific analysis determines that visual intrusions and 

adverse effects will not occur. 

CULT-9 No blading will be allowed on any historic trail unless necessary to protect life or property. Historic trails are not available 

for use as industrial access roads. 

CULT-10 Various Expansion Era (i.e., 1870-1940) roads will be managed according to their historical context. Management 

prescriptions similar to those in the Oregon/Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trails Management Plan will be applied, although the 1⁄4 mile 

protective setback might not always be applied. 

CULT-11 Significant rock art sites, and their surrounding viewsheds (within 1⁄2 mile) will be managed to protect their cultural and 

historic values. Surface disturbing activities and visual intrusions will be prohibited within these areas if they would adversely affect these 

values. 

CULT-12 The vistas surrounding these significant rock art sites (i.e., the actual area that can be seen from the rock art sites, within 

1⁄2 mile), are avoidance areas for surface disturbing activities and visual intrusions. Most surface disturbing and other activities 

visible within these vistas will be prohibited if they would adversely affect rock art site values. Some activities within 1⁄2 mile of the 

rock art, but not visible from the rock art panels, may be allowed. Other kinds of activities, such as audible disturbances, may not be allowed 

if they would adversely affect the sacred Native American values at the rock art sites. 

CULT-13 All other rock art sites will be managed on a case-by-case basis according to resource values. 

CULT-14 Archeological data will be synthesized in the Greater Nitchie Gulch concentrated oil and gas development area, and the 

area will be managed with the objective of facilitating surface disturbing or disrupting activities without sacrificing significant 

archeological values. 

598
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

Other Cultural Sites 

and Areas 

(continued) 

(Human Burial 

Locations) 

Other Cultural

Resources and Cultural

Program Management

Actions

Paleontological

Resources

FIRE MANAGEMENT 

Objectives and Actions 

CULT-15 The Tri-Territory Marker is an exclusion area and is closed to: 1) surface disturbing activities that could adversely affect 

it; and 2) exploration and development of locatable minerals. A withdrawal will be pursued. The site will be open for consideration 

of activities such as fencing, interpretive signs, or barriers to ensure protection of the area. 

CULT-16 The Eden-Farson, Finley, Krmpotich, and Morgan archeological sites, and similar sites identified in the future, will be managed to preserve and record their archeological information and scientific values. Site interpretation for these areas would not be developed for public use. 

CULT-17 All known human burial sites will be protected regardless of their ethnic affiliation. Management of Native American burial 

sites will take into account recommendations from appropriate tribes. Data recovery will not be the preferred method for mitigation of 

adverse effects to any burial location. 

CULT-18 Other cultural sites would be managed on a case-by-case basis according to their resource values. 

CULT-19 Coordination and consultation with Native American tribes would be conducted to identify appropriate management prescriptions 

for areas significant to them for traditional cultural purposes. 

CULT-20 Exchanges for acquisition and cooperative agreements will be pursued to enhance management of cultural resources. 

CULT-21 Significant paleontological resources will be managed for their scientific and educational values and in accordance with 

43 CFR 3600, 43 CFR 3622, and 43 CFR 8365. 

CULT-22 Collecting of vertebrate fossils may be allowed with written authorization which may be issued only to an academic, 

scientific, governmental, or other qualified institution or individual. Collection of common invertebrate fossils and petrified wood 

for hobby purposes is allowed on public lands and is regulated under 43 CFR 3600, 43 CFR 3622, and 43 CFR 8365. 

CULT-23 Surface disturbing activities that affect known vertebrate fossil localities will be considered in site specific analyses and 

potential adverse effects will be mitigated. 

CULT-24 The Steamboat Mountain and Boars Tusk-Killpecker Sand Dunes areas will be managed to protect the unique geological 

and ecological features and to provide for public interpretation of these features. The road around Boars Tusk is closed. 

FIRE-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To: 1) use prescribed fire as a management tool to help meet multiple use resource management 

goals; and 2) provide cost-effective protection from wildfire to life, property, and resource values. 

FIRE-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Wildfire suppression will emphasize appropriate management response. Immediate control 

actions will be used only in cases of arson, direct threat to public safety, or a strong potential to threaten structural property. 

599
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

FIRE MANAGEMENT 

(continued) 

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

MANAGEMENT

LANDS AND REALTY 

MANAGEMENT 

Objectives and Actions 

FIRE-3 Fire suppression actions will be based on achieving the most efficient control and allowing historical acres burned to increase. 

Activity plans will be developed for designated fire management areas defining specific parameters for all fire occurrence. 

FIRE-4 Ambient air quality standards will be maintained during prescribed fire operations. 

FIRE-5 Heavy equipment or actions that will cause surface disturbance will be used only after a site specific analysis has been 

performed and approved. Activities that cause surface disturbance will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

FIRE-6 Use of chemical fire suppression agents is prohibited in rock art sites. Generally, use of chemical fire suppression agents is 

prohibited in special management areas, unless or until a wildland fire situation analysis is completed or activity plan for the special 

management areas identifies chemical suppression agents as an allowable use. 

FIRE-7 Wildfires occurring in forested areas will be appropriately suppressed in accord with resource values threatened, as 

determined on a case-by-case basis. 

FIRE-8 Wildfires occurring in or directly threatening a developed or active timber sale will receive priority suppression control 

action. Non-commercial timber stands may be included in prescribed fire activities. Standard management practices such as pile and 

broadcast burning may be permitted in all forested areas. Wildfires occurring in woodland areas would be suppressed as determined by 

resource values threatened on a case-by-case basis. 

FIRE-9 A site specific analysis will be prepared for sensitive areas such as special status plant species, cultural sites, historic trails, and 

ACECs to determine the appropriate suppression activity that will be acceptable. 

HAZ-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To: 1) protect public and environmental health and safety on BLM-administered public lands; 

2) comply with applicable federal and state laws; 3) prevent waste contamination due to any BLM-authorized actions; 4) minimize 

federal exposure to the liabilities associated with waste management on public lands; and 5) integrate hazardous materials and waste 

management policies and controls into all BLM programs. 

HAZ-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: For BLM-authorized activities that involve hazardous materials or their use, precautionary 

measures will be used to guard against releases or spills into the environment. If safety hazards are identified as a result of hazardous 

waste spills on BLM-administered public lands, the BLM would provide appropriate warnings to the public. 

HAZ-3 BLM-administered public land sites contaminated with hazardous wastes will be reported, secured, and cleaned up according 

to applicable federal and state regulations and contingency plans. Parties responsible for contamination will be liable for cleanup and 

resource damage costs, as prescribed in federal and state regulations. 

LANDS-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To: 1) manage the public lands to support the goals and objectives of other resource 

programs; 2) respond to public demand for land use authorizations; and 3) acquire administrative and public access where necessary. 

600
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

Land Ownership

Adjustment

Land Ownership

Adjustment

(continued)

Utility/Transportation

Systems

Withdrawals/

Classifications

Desert Land Entries

Objectives and Actions 

LANDS-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Disposal of public lands will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The preferred method of 

disposal will be land exchanges. 

LANDS-3 Acquisition of lands will be considered to facilitate various resource management objectives. The preferred method for 

acquisition will be through exchange. Land exchanges are considered discretionary and voluntary real estate transactions between 

parties involved. Consideration will be given for exchanges for State lands in special management areas such as WSAs and ACECs. 

LANDS-4 Public lands will be made available throughout the planning area for rights-of-way, permits, and leases. 

LANDS-5 The ROD and Federal Register notice for the RMP will meet the criteria for public notification for linear or site rights-of-way 

within floodplains as required by BLM Manual 7221, except for those associated with perennial streams. The BLM will solicit public 

comment on site facilities or major linear rights-of-way along perennial streams unless another agency (federal, state, or local) already had 

solicited such comments. 

LANDS-6 Areas designated as utility windows, rights-of-way concentration areas, and existing communication sites will be preferred 

locations for future grants. Five windows have been identified: 2 east-west, 3 north-south. Other areas will be considered for rights-of-­

way on a case-by-case basis. 

LANDS-7 Areas are designated for avoidance or exclusion to rights-of-way where these uses are incompatible with management of 

sensitive resources and/or would have unacceptable impacts. 

LANDS-8 Withdrawals and classifications will be processed to protect important resource values. Withdrawals which no longer serve 

the purpose for which they were established will be revoked. Prior to revocation, withdrawn lands will be reviewed to determine 

if any other resource values require withdrawal protection. 

LANDS-9 Some locatable mineral decisions are deferred in the JMH core area. Additionally, determining where withdrawals from mineral 

location (i.e., filing of mining claims) and related mining activities will be pursued, is also deferred in the core area until completion of the 

activity plan. 

LANDS-10 Public water reserves will be terminated where no longer needed and acquired where the need exists. 

LANDS-11 No BLM-administered public lands within the planning area are available for agricultural entry under Desert Land Entry 

(43 CFR 2520) due to one or more of the following factors: unsuitable soils, salinity contributions into the Colorado River System, 

lack of water supplies, rugged topography, lack of access, small parcel size, and presence of sensitive resources. 

601
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

Access 

LIVESTOCK GRAZING

MANAGEMENT

LIVESTOCK GRAZING

MANAGEMENT

(continued)

Objectives and Actions 

LANDS-12 Access to public lands will be provided throughout the planning area. Where necessary and consistent with ORV 

designations, access will be closed or restricted in specific areas to protect public health and safety, and to protect significant resource 

values. 

LVSTK-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES: To: 1) improve forage production and ecological conditions for the benefit of livestock use, 

wildlife habitat, watershed, and riparian areas; 

LVSTK-2 2) maintain, improve, or restore riparian habitat to enhance forage conditions, wildlife habitat, and stream quality; and 

LVSTK-3 3) achieve proper functioning condition or better on riparian areas (this is the first priority for vegetation management). 

Riparian objectives developed in the JMHCAP will be incorporated into AMPs for allotments in the Jack Morrow area. 

LVSTK-4 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Public lands will be made available for livestock grazing while considering the needs of other 

resources. 

LVSTK-5 The kinds and seasons of livestock grazing use will continue to be licensed until monitoring, negotiation, consultation, or 

a change in resource conditions indicate that a modification is needed. The authorized active livestock use and existing forage 

reservations for wildlife and wild horses will be maintained. Historic levels and types of rangeland monitoring will continue and additional 

levels and types of monitoring or evaluation may be initiated, as necessary, to determine any need for forage allocation adjustment. 

LVSTK-6 Interdisciplinary monitoring studies will be conducted at a level sufficient to detect changes in grazing use, trend, and range 

conditions and to determine if vegetation objectives will be met for all affected resource values and uses (livestock grazing, wild 

horses, wildlife, watershed, etc.). 

LVSTK-7 Requests for conversions of kinds of livestock and changes in seasons of grazing use will be considered on a case-by-case 

basis through an environmental analysis. Such changes will be consistent with wildlife, wild horse, watershed, and riparian objectives. 

Special status plant species and vegetation objectives must be considered before allowing livestock conversions, and all conversions will 

be consistent with available forage. 

LVSTK-8 All developed and some semi-developed recreation areas are closed to livestock grazing and will be fenced to reduce 

conflicts between uses. 

LVSTK-9 Authorized grazing preference may be reduced in areas with excessive soil erosion and poor range condition, if allotment 

evaluation warrants such a change, or to provide forage for wildlife, wild horse, and recreational uses. 

602
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

LIVESTOCK GRAZING 

MANAGEMENT 

(continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

LVSTK-10 All AMPs will incorporate desired plant community objectives and riparian objectives where such resources exist. 

Grazing systems will be designed to maintain or improve plant diversity and will be implemented on all I category allotments. 

LVSTK-11 Allotments have been placed in one of three selective management categories, identified as improve (I), maintain (M), or custodial (C) based on criteria found in Appendix 9-4 of the Green River RMP. 

LVSTK-12 AMPs will be developed or existing ones modified. Priority for AMP development and modification is I, M, and then C category 

allotments. All AMPs would incorporate riparian and desired plant community objectives. Riparian objectives would be developed for C 

category allotments where riparian values exist. 

LVSTK-13 Site specific analyses will be conducted where necessary to help determine how to alleviate conflicts between wildlife use, 

livestock grazing, and development activities. 

LVSTK-14 Range improvements will be directed at resolving or reducing resource concerns, improvement of wetland/riparian areas, 

and overall improvement of vegetation/ground cover (see Vegetation section). Vegetation manipulation projects would be designed to 

meet CAP objectives. 

LVSTK-15 Water sources may be developed in crucial wildlife winter ranges only when consistent with wildlife habitat needs. Such 

sources will be designed to benefit livestock, wild horses, and wildlife. 

LVSTK-16 Alternative water supplies or facilities for livestock may be provided to relieve livestock grazing pressure along stream bottoms 

and improve livestock distribution. 

LVSTK-17 Construction of fences may be considered to meet management objectives. Fence construction in big game use areas and 

known migration routes will require site specific analysis. Fences on public lands will be removed, modified, or reconstructed if 

documented wildlife or wild horse conflicts occur. Introduction of herder control will be encouraged as an alternative to fencing. 

LVSTK-18 All constructed fences will follow construction standards and design (BLM Manual 1740) and will be located and designed to 

not impede wild horse movement. 

LVSTK-19 Combining and splitting allotments will be considered when such action will help meet RMP objectives. Combining and 

splitting allotments would be considered if it would help meet resource management objectives. 

LVSTK-20 Noxious weed infestations will be controlled through livestock management or by environmentally acceptable mechanical, 

chemical, or biological means. BLM will cooperate and coordinate with County weed and pest districts. 

603
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

MINERALS

MANAGEMENT

Leasable Minerals

MINERALS

MANAGEMENT

Leasable Minerals

(continued)

MINERALS

MANAGEMENT

Oil and Gas 

Objectives and Actions 

LVSTK-21 Cooperative allotment management plans prepared in coordination with other agencies would be consistent with the approved 

Green River RMP. 

LVSTK-22 Salt or mineral supplements for livestock are prohibited within 500 feet of water, wetlands, or riparian areas unless 

analysis shows that watershed, riparian, and wildlife objectives and values would not be adversely affected. Salt or mineral 

supplements are prohibited on areas inhabited by special status plant species or other sensitive areas. 

MINS-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: The objective for management of the BLM-administered Federal minerals is to maintain or 

enhance opportunities for mineral exploration and development, while protecting other resource values. The objective for 

management of oil and gas resources is to provide for leasing, exploration, and development of oil and gas, while protecting other 

values. 

MINS-2 Public lands within the checkerboard area are open to mineral leasing and development (to promote mineral resource 

recovery) with appropriate mitigation measures to be applied on a case-by-case basis. 

MINS-3 WSAs are closed to leasing in accordance with wilderness Interim Management requirements and this closure is not subject to a 

land use planning decision (nondiscretionary closure). 

MINS-4 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: BLM-administered public lands not specifically closed are open to consideration of oil and gas 

leasing. The remainder of the public lands in the planning area are open to consideration for oil and gas leasing with appropriate 

mitigation measures. 

MINS-5 Leasing decisions on about 85,000 acres in this area are deferred until completion of the activity plan. 

MINS-7 Where maximum protection of resources is necessary, a No Surface Occupancy requirement will be imposed. Additional 

areas may be identified through site specific environmental analysis and activity planning. 

MINS-8 Timing limitations (seasonal restrictions) will be applied when activities occur during crucial periods or would adversely 

affect crucial or sensitive resources. Such resources include, but are not limited to, soils during wet and muddy periods, crucial wildlife 

seasonal use areas, and raptor nesting areas. Exceptions to seasonal restrictions may be granted. 

MINS-9 Where controlled use or restrictions on specific activities are needed but do not necessarily exclude activities, controlled 

surface use or surface disturbance restrictions will be designed to protect those resources. These restrictions will be placed on areas 

where resources could be avoided or adverse effects could be mitigated. 

604
Resource 

MINERALS

MANAGEMENT

Geothermal 

MINERALS

MANAGEMENT

Coal 

APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

MINS-10 Development actions will be analyzed on a case-by-case basis to identify mitigation needs to meet RMP objectives, provide 

for resource protection, and provide for logical development. Limitations on the amount, sequence, timing, or level of development may 

occur. This may result in transportation planning and in limitations in the number of roads and drill pads, or deferring development in some 

areas until other areas have been restored to previous uses. 

MINS-11 Geothermal resources are open to leasing consideration in areas that are open to oil and gas leasing consideration. Areas 

closed to oil and gas leasing are also closed to geothermal leasing. 

MINS-12 Exploration and development of geothermal resources are subject to application of mitigation requirements for surface 

disturbing activities and other activities in the same manner as they are applied to oil and gas exploration and development activities. 

MINS-13 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: The objective for management of the federal coal resources in the planning area is to provide 

for both short- and long-range development of federal coal, in an orderly and timely manner, consistent with the policies of the 

federal coal management program, environmental integrity, national energy needs, and related demands. 

MINS-14 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: With appropriate limitations and mitigation requirements for the protection of other resource 

values, all BLM-administered public lands and Federal coal lands in the Green River planning area, except for those lands identified 

as closed, are open to coal resource inventory and exploration to help identify coal resources and their development potential. 

MINS-15 About 44,990 acres of Federal coal lands within the Coal Development Potential Area would be open to further consideration for 

coal leasing and development with appropriate and necessary conditions and requirements for protection of other land and resource values 

and uses. 

MINS-16 About 218,420 acres of Federal coal lands would be closed to coal exploration and sodium prospecting. 

MINS-17 The Coal Occurrence and Development Potential area is subject to continued field investigations, studies, and evaluations 

to determine if certain methods of coal mining can occur without having a significant long-term impact on wildlife, cultural, and 

watershed resources, in general, and on threatened and endangered plant and animal species and their essential habitats. 

605
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

MINERALS

MANAGEMENT

Coal 

(continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

MINS-18 Big game crucial winter ranges and birthing areas are open to further consideration for federal coal leasing and 

development with a provision for maintaining a balance between coal leasing and development, and adequate crucial winter range 

and birthing area habitats to prevent significant adverse impacts to important big game species. This will be accomplished through 

controlled timing and sequencing of Federal coal leasing and development in these areas. Satisfactory abandonment and adequate 

reclamation of mined lands in big game crucial winter ranges and birthing areas will be required before additional Federal coal leasing and 

development is initiated in these same crucial winter ranges and birthing areas. 

MINS-19 For the protection of important rock art sites, other important cultural resource values, and important geologic and 

ecologic features, Federal coal lands with these important values are open to consideration for further leasing and development by 

subsurface mining methods only. Any Federal coal leasing and development on these lands will include a no surface occupancy 

requirement for any related ancillary facilities, and surface disturbing activities will be prohibited. 

MINS-20 In general, cultural sites on Federal coal lands are avoidance areas for surface disturbing activities. As avoidance areas, 

cultural sites are open to consideration for coal leasing and development with appropriate measures to protect these resources. 

Surface disturbing activities associated with such actions as surface coal mining methods, exploration drilling, construction and location 

of ancillary facilities, roads and other types of rights-of-way, etc., will be avoided, if possible. In cases where it is not possible to avoid these 

areas, intensive mitigation of the surface disturbing activities (primarily excavation and other data recovery measures) will be emphasized. 

MINS-21 - If necessary, appropriate buffer zones will be established to protect sites that are listed or eligible for listing on the NRHP. 

Data recovery measures will be implemented in the context of an NRHP district, if appropriate, to maximize efficiency of 

data recovery efforts. 

MINS-22 Grouse nesting areas (sage or sharptail grouse) are open to consideration for Federal coal leasing and development, with 

certain requirements. Exploration activities and ancillary facilities will be allowed with the following requirement: 

MINS-23 -If an occupied grouse nest may be adversely affected by coal mining and related surface disturbing activities, surface uses 

and activities will be delayed in the area of influence for the nest until nesting is completed. 

MINS-24 Active grouse leks (sage and sharptail grouse) and the area within a 1⁄4 mile radius of active leks are avoidance areas for 

surface disturbing activities and are open to consideration for Federal coal leasing and development with the following requirements: 

MINS-25 -Surface disturbing activities associated with such actions as surface coal mining methods, exploration drilling, construction 

of roads and other types of rights-of-way, etc., will be avoided in these areas, if possible. In cases where it is not possible 

to avoid these areas, intensive mitigation of the surface disturbing activities will be emphasized. 

MINS-26 -Permanent and high profile structures, such as buildings, overhead powerlines, other types of ancillary facilities, etc., are 

prohibited in these areas. 

606
Resource 

Competitive Federal Coal

Areas With Surface Mining

Potential

Other Leasables

Mineral Materials 

APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

MINS-27 -During the grouse mating season, surface uses and activities are prohibited between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m., 

within a 1⁄2 mile radius of active leks (i.e., those leks occupied by mating birds). 

MINS-28 Wetland and riparian areas on Federal coal lands are avoidance areas for surface disturbing activities and are open to 

consideration for coal leasing and development with the following requirements: 

MINS-29 -Surface disturbing activities associated with such actions as surface coal mining methods, exploration drilling, construction 

of ancillary facilities, roads and other types of rights-of-way, etc., will be avoided in these areas, if possible. In cases where 

it is not possible to avoid these areas, intensive mitigation of the surface disturbing activities will be required. 

MINS-30 BLM-administered public land surface overlaying state-owned coal are open to further consideration for coal development 

with appropriate and necessary conditions and requirements for protection of the public land surface and surface resource values 

and uses, including big game crucial winter range, grouse leks, cultural values, geologic features, and rights-of-way (about 640 acres). 

MINS-31 -These lands are subject to continued field investigations, studies, and evaluations to determine if certain methods 

of coal mining can occur without having a significant long-term impact on wildlife, in general, and on threatened and 

endangered plant and animal species and their essential habitats. 

MINS-32 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Leasing will be considered on a case-by-case basis and is subject to appropriate mitigation. 

MINS-33 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: The objective for management of saleable minerals (mineral materials, e.g., sand, gravel)) 

is to provide mineral materials in convenient locations for users while protecting other resources. 

MINS-34 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Most of the planning area is open to consideration of mineral material sales and activity except 

for areas where such activity would cause unacceptable impacts. Areas closed are listed in Table 11 of the Green River RMP (USDI 

1997). 

MINS-35 As sale areas, community pits, and localized common use areas become established to provide for sales of mineral materials, 

such as moss rock and sand, their use and management will be in conformance with other resource objectives. Adequate mine and 

reclamation plans for use areas will be developed. Requests from users for mineral material will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. 

607
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

Locatable Minerals 

Locatable Minerals 

(continued) 

Geophysical 

Objectives and Actions 

MINS-36 Establishment of mineral material sites will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. 

MINS-37 No topsoil sale areas will be established. 

MINS-38 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: The objective for management of locatable minerals is to provide opportunities to explore, 

locate, and develop mining claims while protecting other resource values. 

MINS-39 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: With the exception of lands withdrawn from mineral location, the planning area is open to filing 

of mining claims and exploration for and development of locatable minerals. 

MINS-40 The mineral classification withdrawals in the RMP planning area (phosphate, coal, oil shale) will be revoked. In some 

areas, these classification withdrawals will remain in effect until replaced with an appropriate withdrawal for other, appropriate 

purposes (see Special Management Area section). Other withdrawals from mineral location will be pursued to provide protection 

to important resource value. 

MINS-41 Surface disturbing activities on mining claims require a notice submitted to BLM for a cumulative surface disturbance of 5 acres 

or less and a plan of operations for disturbances of more than 5 acres. In ACECs, WSAs, potential additions to the Wild and Scenic River 

System, and areas closed to ORV use, a plan of operations will be required for any surface disturbing activities, regardless of acreage 

involved. 

MINS-42 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To provide opportunity for exploration of mineral resources and collection of geophysical 

data, while protecting other resource values. 

MINS-43 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Most of the planning area is open to consideration of geophysical activities except where offroad vehicle use or explosive charges would cause unacceptable impacts. NOTE: Boars Tusk, Crookston Ranch, Oregon Trail, White 

Mountain Petroglyphs are closed. 

MINS-44 Geophysical activities will generally be required to conform to the ORV designations and ORV management prescriptions 

(see Off-Road Vehicle Management). However, geophysical exploration has been and will continue to be routinely granted site specific 

authorization for off-road vehicle use subject to appropriate limitations to protect various resources identified during analysis of proposed 

actions. Geophysical Notices of Intent will continue to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and all authorizations will be issued with 

appropriate analysis and mitigation requirements. 

608
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

ORV MANAGEMENT 

ORV MANAGEMENT 

(continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

MINS-45 Geophysical travel through developed and semi-developed recreation sites is restricted to existing roads and trails. 

MINS-46 Geophysical activities will be restricted or prohibited within 1⁄4 mile or visual horizon of historic trails (whichever is closer) 

to protect trail integrity. Vehicles used for geophysical exploration or similar activities could be allowed to cross and drive down 

historic trails, provided a site specific analysis determines that no adverse effects would occur. 

MINS-47 Generally, shotholes and vibroseis activity will be restricted or disallowed within 300 feet of historic and recreational trails; 

however, exceptions may be allowed if supported by a site specific analysis. 

ORV-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To provide opportunity for off-road vehicle use in conformance with other resource 

management objectives. 

ORV-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: In areas designated as either "limited" to designated roads and trails or "limited" to existing 

roads and trails for off-road vehicle use, motorized vehicles must stay on designated or existing roads and trails, unless allowed an 

exception by the authorized officer. This limitation applies to all activities involving motorized vehicles. Except for areas that are 

closed to off-road vehicle travel, some types of off-road motor vehicle use may be allowed by the authorized officer provided resource 

damage does not occur. 

ORV-3 The existing open area in the Killpecker Sand Dunes would remain open. No new open areas would be established (see specific 

ACEC write-up). 

ORV-4 Approximately 119,890 acres are closed to off-road vehicle use to protect naturalness and outstanding opportunities for 

solitude, or primitive and unconfined recreation (i.e., WSAs). Where necessary, areas would be closed to ORV travel to protect other 

resource values and public health and safety in the areas. 

ORV-5 Vehicular travel in crucial and important wildlife habitats and during crucial and important periods will be restricted 

seasonally, as necessary (strutting grounds, spawning beds, big game ranges, calving/fawning periods, etc.). 

ORV-6 Vehicular travel is restricted to designated roads in sensitive watersheds and in cultural site management areas. 

ORV-7 Generally, over-the-snow vehicle use is subject to the ORV prescriptions unless a site specific analysis determines that 

exceptions can be allowed. 

ORV-8 ORV implementation plans will be prepared, as necessary, and will reflect the ORV designations made in the Green River RMP. 

ORV implementation planning will also be a part of comprehensive activity planning efforts. 

609
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

RECREATION RESOURCE

MANAGEMENT

RECREATION RESOURCE 

MANAGEMENT 

(continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

REC-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To: 1) ensure the continued availability of outdoor recreational opportunities sought by the 

public while protecting other resources; 2) meet legal requirements for the health and safety of visitors; and 3) mitigate conflicts 

between recreation and other types of resource uses. Information provided by the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum will aid in identifying 

the types of recreation uses occurring on public lands. 

REC-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Most public lands in the planning area are open to consideration of all individual, commercial, 

and competitive outdoor recreation uses. 

REC-3 The Oregon Buttes, Honeycomb Buttes, and Steamboat Mountain areas will be managed to assure their continuing value for 

recreational opportunities. Recreation area management plans will be prepared for these areas if necessary. 

REC-4 Developed recreation sites will be managed to assure public health and safety. Undeveloped recreation sites and other 

recreation use areas will be managed with priority consideration for air quality, cultural resources, watershed protection, wildlife 

values, and public health and safety. 

REC-5 The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail is designated a special recreation management area (SRMA) to place 

management emphasis on enhancing recreation opportunities and to focus management on areas with high recreation values or areas 

where there are conflicts between recreation and other uses. The former SRMA designations (Killpecker Sand Dunes and Oregon 

and Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trails) are retained. The management plan for the Oregon and Mormon Pioneer Trails will be 

implemented. Management plans for the Sand Dunes and the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail will be developed. 

REC-6 The remainder of the project area will be managed as an extensive recreation management area (ERMA). 

REC-7 A 14-day camping limit is established on all BLM-administered public lands. 

REC-8 Special recreation permits will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Appropriate mitigation will be included in special 

recreation permits, commercial recreation uses, and major competitive recreation events to provide resource protection and public safety. 

REC-9 Suitable wild horse herd viewing area(s) may be developed to enhance public viewing of horses. Viewing areas plus a 1⁄2 mile 

distance surrounding them are closed to long-term or permanent intrusions and surface disturbing activities that could interfere with 

opportunities to view horses (e.g., structures, mineral activities, powerlines, roads, etc.). Short-term intrusions within the 1⁄2 mile 

distance and actions that will blend with the landscape or will benefit the intent of the wild horse herd viewing areas will be 

considered on a case-by-case basis. 

610
Resource 

RECREATION RESOURCE 

MANAGEMENT 

(continued) 

APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

REC-10 Dispersed camping is prohibited near water sources in designated areas where it is necessary to protect water quality and 

wildlife and livestock watering areas. Camping in other riparian areas is allowed within 200 feet of water. Areas will be closed to 

camping if resource damage occurs. 

REC-11 Development of permanent recreation sites and facilities in undeveloped recreation use areas will be considered, provided 

proper mitigation and exceptions to Executive Order 11988 apply. The area within 500 feet of riparian areas and floodplains is an 

avoidance area for recreation site facilities. Exceptions may be considered following a site specific analysis. Adverse impacts to riparian 

areas and water quality is prohibited. Water sources at undeveloped recreation sites will be monitored. If the water is not potable, signs 

will be posted. 

REC-12 Vegetation buffer strips will be maintained between developed recreational facilities and surface water. 

REC-13 Recreation site development projects and access routes along intensively used streams and reservoirs will be managed to 

maintain or improve wetland habitat conditions. 

REC-14 Surface disturbing activities are prohibited within 1⁄4 mile of recreation sites unless such activities are determined to be 

compatible with or are done for meeting recreation objectives for the area. Generally, such activities (e.g., those associated with mineral 

development, roads, pipelines, powerlines, etc.) will be designed to avoid these areas. These areas would be open to development of 

recreation site facilities. An approved plan will be required prior to the site disturbance. 

REC-15 The natural values of Boars Tusk will be protected. Surface occupancy and surface disturbing activities are prohibited in 

this area, unless such activity would enhance management of these geologic features. A recreation project plan and an interpretive 

prospectus will be developed for the Boars Tusk. 

REC-16 Two backcountry byways are designated (in the JMH area) and will include consideration for mountain bike use. They are 

Tri-Territory Loop and Red Desert. Brochures and interpretive signs will be prepared to inform users. Additional travel routes that 

meet the criteria will be considered for designation as backcountry byways on a case-by-case basis. 

REC-17 Mountain bike trail opportunities will be explored. 

REC-18 The Sweetwater River will be managed for recreation values. Recreation area management plans will be developed, where 

necessary. 

REC-19 Posting information and directional signs will be necessary in some areas. The Green River RMP establishes various types of 

resource designations, and sign posting will be provided to promote visitor use of the various areas consistent with management objectives. 

611
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

SPECIAL STATUS PLANT

SPECIES

MANAGEMENT

(Also refer to section on

Special Designation

Management Areas)

SPECIAL STATUS PLANT

SPECIES

MANAGEMENT

(continued)

Objectives and Actions 

SSP-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To: 1) maintain or enhance essential and important habitat and prevent destruction or loss of 

the species' communities and important habitat; 2) provide opportunities for enhancing or expanding the habitat; and 3) prevent 

the need for listing these species as threatened or endangered. 

SSP-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Any management actions on potential habitat of special status plant species communities on federal 

land or on split estate lands (i.e., non-federal land surface ownership with BLM-administered federal minerals ownership) will 

require searches for the plant species prior to project or activity implementation to determine the locations of special status plant 

species and essential and/or important habitats. Special status plant populations are closed to activities that could adversely affect 

these species and their habitat. Management requirements in habitat areas may include prohibiting or limiting motorized vehicle use, 

surface uses, and explosive charges or any other surface disturbing or disruptive activity that may cause adverse effects to the plants. 

SSP-3 Known locations of special status plant species communities will be protected and closed to: 

---1) surface disturbing activities or any disruptive activity that could adversely affect the plants or their habitat; 

---2) the location of new mining claims (withdrawal from mineral location and entry under the land laws will be pursued); 

---3) mineral material sales; 

---4) all off-road vehicular use, including those vehicles used for geophysical exploration activities, surveying, etc.; and 

---5) the use of explosives and blasting. 

SSP-4 Locations of special status plant species are open to consideration for mineral leasing with a no surface occupancy requirement. 

SSP-5 On essential and important special status plant species habitat, all fire suppression activities are limited to existing roads and 

trails. A site specific analysis will be prepared for all fire management activities (e.g., prescribed fires, fire suppression) around 

special status plant species sites to determine the appropriate fire management response. 

SSP-6 Should new special status plant species be identified, they will be managed under the same prescriptions described above for 

the known species. This may result as new information about vegetation types and communities is acquired. 

SSP-7 Known locations of special status species will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine if they meet the relevance and 

importance criteria to be considered for ACEC designation. If appropriate, such locations will be proposed for ACEC designation (see 

the section on Special Designation Management Areas). 

SSP-8 Management prescriptions for threatened and endangered species and proposed threatened and endangered species will be 

developed on a case-by-case basis in consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 

612
Resource 

VEGETATION

MANAGEMENT

VEGETATION

MANAGEMENT

(continued)

APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

VEG-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To: 1) maintain or enhance vegetation community health, composition, and diversity to meet 

watershed, wild horse, wildlife, and livestock grazing resource management objectives; and 2) provide for plant diversity (desired 

plant communities). 

VEG-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Riparian habitat will be maintained, improved, or restored to provide wildlife and fish habitat, 

improve water quality, and enhance forage conditions. Where possible, acquisition of additional riparian area acreage will be 

pursued to enhance riparian area management. 

VEG-3 The minimum management goal for riparian areas is to achieve proper functioning condition. This is considered the first 

priority for vegetation management. Desired plant communities must meet the criteria for proper functioning condition. 

VEG-4 Desired plant community objectives for upland and riparian areas will be established for the planning area through individual 

site specific activity and implementation planning and as updated ecological site inventory data become available. All activity and 

implementation plans will incorporate desired plant community objectives. Native plant communities are the preferred species identified 

when establishing desired plant community objectives. 

VEG-5 Mechanical, biological, chemical, and prescribed fire would be the methods utilized to treat vegetation. 

VEG-6 Prescribed fire will generally be the preferred method of vegetation manipulation to convert stands of brush to grasslands 

and to promote regeneration of aspen stands and/or shrub species. Low intensity burns during periods of high soil moisture will be the 

preferred methods/times in mountain shrub communities. 

VEG-7 Prescribed fire will be restricted in areas with surface coal or other fossil fuel outcrops. 

VEG-8 Prescribed burns generally will be conducted in areas having greater than 35 percent sagebrush composition, 20 percent desirable 

grass composition, and greater than 10 inches of precipitation. 

VEG-9 All treated areas will be rested a minimum of 2 growing seasons from livestock grazing. Burn areas will be fenced from livestock 

and big game animals if necessary. 

VEG-10 Vegetation manipulation projects will be conducted to reach multiple use objectives and will involve site specific 

environmental analysis and coordination. 

VEG-11 All vegetation manipulation projects will involve site specific environmental analysis; coordination with affected livestock operators 

and the WGFD; and will include multiple use objectives for resource uses including livestock grazing, wildlife, recreation, and watershed. 

613
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

VEGETATION 

MANAGEMENT 

(continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

VEG-12 Vegetation treatments will be designed to be compatible with special status plant species. For example, spraying, burning, 

mechanical disturbances, etc. will not be allowed to adversely affect these plant species. 

VEG-13 Vegetation treatment projects will be designed to protect water quality and dissipate erosion. This generally means 

accomplishing vegetation treatments in a mosaic pattern and leaving sufficient untreated vegetation to buffer riparian areas and intermittent 

and ephemeral drainages from erosion. Specific treatment designs for erosion control will be determined on a case-by-case basis. 

VEG-14 All vegetation treatments will be designed on a case-by-case basis and will be irregular in shape for edge effect, cover, and visual 

esthetics. 

VEG-15 Treatments in riparian and adjacent upland areas would be designed site specifically to ensure excessive sedimentation along 

streams would not occur. 

VEG-16 Vegetation buffer strips would be provided along streams to control sedimentation. Generally, vegetation buffer strips 100' wide 

would be left intact adjacent to perennial streams. 

VEG-17 No more than 50% of the vegetation cover would be removed from the inner gorge of intermittent and ephemeral drainages to 

protect watershed values. 

VEG-18 Herbicide loading sites would not be located closer than 500' to live water, floodplains, riparian areas, and all special status plant 

locations. 

VEG-19 Riparian Vegetation Management Actions: Riparian habitat in proper functioning condition is the minimum acceptable 

status or level within the Green River Resource Area. Under this RMP, 75 percent of the riparian areas should, within 10 years, 

have activity and implementation plans in various states of implementation that will allow riparian areas to achieve or maintain 

proper functioning condition. 

VEG-20 Site specific activity and implementation plans will be used to identify methods to achieve or maintain proper functioning condition 

in riparian areas. 

VEG-21 Methods applied where grazing occurs include (but are not limited to) fencing, establishment of pastures and exclosures, off-site 

water development, off-site salt or mineral supplement placement, timing and seasons of use, establishment of allowable use levels for key 

riparian species, herding, grazing systems, etc. Methods applied where surface disturbing activities occur include (but are not limited to) 

distance restrictions, timing constraints, sediment containment and control design, and reclamation practices. 

614
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

VISUAL RESOURCE

MANAGEMENT

VISUAL RESOURCE 

MANAGEMENT 

(continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

VEG-22 The next step beyond basic proper functioning condition of riparian areas is the achievement of desired plant communities. Desired 

plant community objectives will be developed on riparian areas based on any of several different methods, including Ecological Site 

Inventory, comparison areas (comparison areas would have similar soils, aspect, vegetation, and precipitation), and estimating the structural 

component that can be achieved in the short term. 

VEG-23 While the desired plant community establishes objectives for the riparian area or upland plant community, the Desired Future 

Condition establishes goals for entire watersheds (or larger blocks of land) involving all activities and resources. Achieving proper 

functioning condition and a desired plant community are integral steps in the process of establishing and achieving the Desired Future 

Condition of an area. 

VRM-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To: 1) maintain or improve scenic values and visual quality; and 2) establish priorities for 

managing the visual resources in conjunction with other resource values. 

VRM-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Visual resource classes will be retained or modified to enhance other resource objectives such 

as those for cultural resource and recreation management, wild horse viewing, and special management areas. 

VRM-3 Projects and facilities will be designed to meet the objectives of the established visual classifications and appropriate 

mitigation will be included. Facilities (either in place or new), including linear rights-of-way, etc., must be screened, painted, or designed 

to blend with the surrounding landscape. 

VRM-4 All surface disturbing actions, regardless of the visual resource management class, are required to be mitigated to reduce 

visual impacts. This will be achieved by designing and locating the disturbances in a manner that most closely meets the minimum degree 

of contrast acceptable for the visual resource management class. 

VRM-5 Management actions on public lands with a Class II visual resource management classification must be designed to blend 

into and retain the existing character of the natural landscape. 

VRM-6 Management actions on public lands with a Class III visual resource management classification must be designed to partially 

retain the existing character of the landscape. 

VRM-7 Management actions on public lands with a Class IV visual resource management classification could result in major 

modification of the character of the landscape. 

VRM-8 Management actions in areas classified as rehabilitation areas will be designed to reclaim and improve visual resource values 

to achieve a higher classification. 

615
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

WATERSHED/SOILS

MANAGEMENT

Objectives and Actions 

VRM-9 The scenic values along Highway 28 within Fremont County will be protected. All proposed lands actions and other activities 

within view of the highway will be evaluated for impacts and will require mitigation to protect the scenic and historic values of this 

area. Class II visual resource management classifications on public lands will be retained. 

VRM-10 The public lands along all other major highways in the planning area will be managed under their respective visual resource 

management classifications. 

VRM-11 Suitable wild horse herd viewing area(s) may be developed to enhance public viewing of horses. Viewing areas plus a 1⁄2 

mile distance surrounding them will be closed to long-term or permanent intrusions and surface disturbing activities that could 

interfere with opportunities to view horses (e.g., structures, mineral activities, powerlines, roads, etc.). Short-term intrusions that will 

blend with the landscape or will benefit the intent of the wild horse herd viewing areas will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

WATER-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES: To: 1) stabilize and conserve soils; 2) increase vegetative production; 3) maintain or 

improve surface and groundwater quality; and 4) protect, maintain, or improve wetlands, floodplains, and riparian areas. 

WATER-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Land uses and surface disturbing activities will be designed to reduce erosion and to maintain 

or improve water quality. Management in damaged wetland and riparian areas will be directed toward restoration to predisturbance conditions. Practices to carry out these actions may include ensuring that construction of stream crossings occurs during 

normal stream flows, not during high or peak flows when additional sediment from construction could be swept in the stream; and ensuring 

water discharges meet appropriate standards. Streambank erosion and channel incision are of particular concern as either would result in 

unacceptable losses of riparian habitat. Accelerated surface erosion will impact riparian habitat adversely and reduce productivity in 

uplands. 

WATER-3 Management in the planning area will emphasize: 

-reduction of sediment, phosphate, and salinity load in drainages where possible. Measures listed in Appendix 5-1 of 

the Green River RMP will be applied, as necessary. Guidelines described in the Wyoming Water Quality Rules and 

Regulations will also be applied, as necessary (Wyoming 1989); 

WATER-4 -maintaining and improving drainage channel stability; and 

WATER-5 -restoring damaged wetland areas. Exclosures will be designed to allow ample water for livestock and allow minimum 

impediments to big game migration. 

616
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

WATERSHED/SOILS 

MANAGEMENT 

(continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

WATER-6 Areas where the soils are highly erodible or difficult to reclaim will receive increased attention, and are avoidance areas 

for surface disturbing activities. Surface disturbing activities could be allowed in these areas if site specific analysis determines that soil 

degradation will not occur and that water quality will not be adversely affected. When applicable, an erosion control plan will be prepared 

as part of the site specific analysis process for activity and implementation planning. Rehabilitation plans will be developed and 

implemented for disturbed areas, as needed. 

WATER-7 Activity and implementation plans will be designed with measures to reduce phosphate loading to Fontenelle and Flaming 

Gorge Reservoirs and the Green River. 

WATER-8 BLM will participate with federal and local government agencies and the Colorado River Salinity Control Forum to develop 

and implement salinity control plans. 

WATER-9 BLM will participate with federal and local government agencies to develop and implement phosphate reduction plans in 

tributaries to Fontenelle Reservoir and Flaming Gorge Reservoir. 

WATER-10 Site specific activity and implementation plans (to reduce erosion and sediment yield, promote ground cover, enhance 

water quality) will be prepared for areas where needed. These areas include but are not limited to Cedar Mountain and Sage 

Creek/Currant Creek. The Red Creek watershed plan will continue to be implemented, as appropriate. 

WATER-11 Activity and implementation plans for other land and resource uses and areas will include general watershed 

management directives and will incorporate sediment reduction and water quality improvement objectives. 

WATER-12 Wetlands and floodplains within the planning area will be managed in accordance with Executive Orders 11988 and 

11990. 

WATER-13 Surface disturbing and construction activities (e.g., mineral exploration and development activities, pipelines, powerlines, 

roads, recreation sites, fences, wells, etc.) that could adversely affect water quality and wetland and riparian habitat, will avoid the 

area within 500 feet of or on 100-year floodplains, wetlands, or perennial streams and within 100 feet of the edge of the inner gorge 

of intermittent and large ephemeral drainages. Proposals for linear crossings in these areas will be considered on a case-by-case 

basis. Activities could be allowed if a site specific analysis determines that no adverse impacts will occur to floodplains, wetlands, perennial 

streams, or water quality, and a plan to mitigate impacts to water quality is approved. 

WATER-14 The 100-year floodplains, wetlands, and riparian areas are closed to any new permanent facilities (e.g., storage tanks, 

structure pits, etc.). Proposals for linear crossings in these areas will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

617
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

WATERSHED/SOILS 

MANAGEMENT 

(continued) 

WILD HORSE

MANAGEMENT

Objectives and Actions 

WATER-15 Practices, determined on a case-by-case basis, will be implemented as needed to protect groundwater and prevent soil 

contamination. Such practices could include lining of reserve, production, and other types of pits and will include alternate locations for 

plants, mill sites, ponds, and sewage lagoons where soils are highly permeable. Areas within 500' of or on 100-year floodplains, wetlands, 

or perennial streams, and within 100' of the inner gorge of intermittent and large ephemeral drainages would be avoidance areas for surface 

disturbing activities. Linear crossings would be considered on a case-by-case basis. 

WATER-16 Aquifer recharge areas will be managed to protect groundwater quality and to ensure continued ability for recharging 

aquifers. Protection will be provided by limiting road density and surface occupancy to maintain a healthy recharge area. Vegetative cover 

and geologic soil condition that are conducive to groundwater recharge will be maintained. 

WATER-17 BLM will cooperate with the State of Wyoming on the Wyoming State 208 water quality plan, and will coordinate the 

development of water quality plans consistent with BLM programs and RMP recommendations and decisions. Water quality will 

be monitored as needed to determine pollution and land health conditions. An area-wide monitoring plan to determine sources of water 

pollution will continue. 

WH-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES: To: 1) protect, maintain, and control viable, healthy herds of wild horses while retaining their 

free-roaming nature; 2) provide adequate habitat for free-roaming wild horses through management consistent with principles of 

multiple use and environmental protection; and 3) provide opportunity for the public to view wild horses. 

WH-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: That portion of the Great Divide Wild Horse Herd Management Area within the JMHCAP area would 

be maintained. Planning area AMLs for wild horses is 415-600 head. 

WH-3 A site specific activity plan for the Great Divide wild horse herd management will be implemented to conform with RMP 

objectives for vegetation management and maintained. A monitoring program will be developed to provide information to support wild 

horse management decisions. 

WH-4 Specific habitat objectives for the herd management area will be developed. Consideration will be given to desired plant communities, wildlife, watershed, livestock grazing, and other resource needs. 

WH-5 Water developments will be provided if necessary, to improve herd distribution and manage forage utilization. The feasibility 

of water development on the checkerboard land portion of the herd areas, to better distribute wild horses, will be determined. Any water 

developments proposed in the Rock Springs Allotment would primarily enhance management of wild horses. Water developments on 

crucial winter ranges could be allowed if they conform with wildlife objectives and do not result in adverse impacts to the crucial 

winter range. 

WH-6 Wild horse herd management will be directed to ensure that adequate forage will be available to support appropriate 

management levels in the herd units and that herds maintain appropriate age, sex, and color ratios. 

618
Resource 

WILD HORSE 

MANAGEMENT 

(continued) 

WILDERNESS

MANAGEMENT

APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

WH-7 Selective gathering programs will be implemented in each of the wild horse herd management areas. Gathering plans will 

be prepared for removal of excess horses from inside and outside the wild horse herd management areas. Gathering cycles will vary 

by plan objectives, resource conditions, and needs. Fertility control will be initiated only if necessary. These actions will aid in stabilizing 

populations, managing for conditions and special characteristics, and supply an adoptable population (i.e., young horses). 

WH-8 Fencing in wild horse herd management areas will be restricted to those situations where multiple-use values will be enhanced. 

All fences will be constructed to minimize restriction of wild horse movement. 

WH-9 Opportunity for public education and enjoyment of wild horse herds will be provided by placing interpretive signs, providing 

interpretive sites, and providing access to the herd areas. Signs providing information on wild horses will be placed in strategic locations 

such as the rest area east of Rock Springs along Interstate 80, on the Bar X Road at the junction with I-80, and at the entrance to the Oregon 

Buttes and Continental Peak areas on Highway 28. See the Recreation and Visual Resource Management sections for direction on wild horse 

herd viewing areas. 

WH-10 Other resource uses will be maintained and protected consistent with those resource management objectives while 

maintaining viable, healthy wild horse herds and appropriate herd management levels. Wild horse herd management areas will be 

managed in a natural, healthy state and for an ecological balance among wild horses and land and resource uses. 

WILD-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To retain the wilderness quality and manage the Wilderness Study Areas in the RMP planning 

area in accordance with the "Interim Management Policy and Guidelines for Lands Under Wilderness Review," until Congress acts 

on designation. 

WILD-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Wilderness management plans will be prepared for those WSAs designated by Congress as wilderness. 

WILD-3 Discretionary uses within or adjacent to WSAs will be reviewed to ensure they do not create conflicts with management and 

preservation of wilderness values. 

WILD-4 Should Congress designate the WSAs in the planning area (partially or wholly) as wilderness, the management of the 

designated areas will be for wilderness values, either as described in the appropriate wilderness EIS or as directed by Congress. 

WILD-5 Should Congress not designate areas (partially or wholly) as wilderness, the management of the nondesignated areas will 

be in accordance with the approved Green River RMP or as otherwise directed by Congress. The undesignated areas will lose their 

identity as WSAs and will be managed consistent with the adjoining areas as prescribed in the Green River RMP or as otherwise directed 

by Congress. 

WILD-6 If necessary, in the course of incorporating the wilderness decisions into the RMP, the RMP will be amended. 

619
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

WILDLIFE

MANAGEMENT

Objectives and Actions 

WLIFE-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES: To 1) maintain, improve, or enhance the biological diversity of plant and wildlife species 

while ensuring healthy ecosystems; and 2) restore disturbed or altered habitat with the objective to attain desired native plant 

communities, while providing for wildlife needs and soil stability. 

WLIFE-2 The objectives for management of wetlands/riparian areas are to: 1) achieve a healthy and productive condition for longterm benefits and values in concert with range, watershed, and wildlife needs; and 2) enhance or maintain riparian habitats by 

managing for deep-rooted native herbaceous or woody vegetation. 

WLIFE-3 The objective for management of threatened, endangered, special status, and sensitive plant and animal species is to 

provide, maintain, or improve habitat through vegetative manipulation, mitigation measures, or other management actions including 

habitat acquisition and easements. 

WLIFE-4 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: To the extent possible, suitable wildlife habitat and forage will be provided to support the 

Wyoming Game and Fish Department 1989 Strategic Plan objectives. Changes within Wyoming Game and Fish Department 

planning objective levels will be considered based on habitat capability and availability and site specific analysis. 

WLIFE-5 BLM will cooperate with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) in preparation of studies for the introduction and 

re-introduction of native and non-native wildlife and fish species. 

WLIFE-6 High value wildlife habitats will be maintained or improved by reducing habitat loss or alteration and by applying 

appropriate distance and seasonal restrictions and rehabilitation standards to all appropriate activities. These habitats include crucial 

winter habitat, parturition areas, sensitive fisheries habitat, etc. 

WLIFE-7 Big game crucial winter ranges and parturition areas will be protected to ensure continued useability by limiting activities 

during critical seasons of use and by limiting the amount of habitat disturbed. 

WLIFE-8 Grouse breeding and nesting areas will be protected. 

WLIFE-9 --Aboveground facilities (power lines, storage tanks fences, etc.) are prohibited on or within 1⁄4 mile of grouse breeding 

grounds (leks). Placement of facilities, "on" (very low profile) or below ground, and temporary disruptive activities, 

such as occur with pipeline construction, seismic activity, etc., could be granted exceptions within 1⁄4 mile of leks, in 

certain circumstances. 

WLIFE-10 --To protect breeding grouse, disruptive activities will avoid occupied grouse leks from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. daily. 

The actual area to be avoided and appropriate time frame (usually from March 1 through June 15) will be 

determined on a case-by-case basis. The avoidance area size (usually within 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 mile of the lek) may vary depending 

on natural topographic barriers, terrain, line of sight distance, etc.. 

620
Resource 

WILDLIFE 

MANAGEMENT 

(continued) 

APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

WLIFE-11 --To protect grouse nesting habitat, seasonal restrictions will apply within appropriate distances from the grouse lek. 

Appropriate distances (up to two miles) and time frames (usually from March 1 through June 30) will be determined 

on a case-by-case basis. Exceptions to seasonal restrictions may be granted, provided the criteria in Appendix 4 can 

be met. 

WLIFE-12 Active and historic raptor nesting sites will be protected and managed for continued nesting activities. An active raptor 

nest is one that has been occupied within the past 3 years; an historic nesting site is an area of high topographic relief, particularly cliff areas, 

known to have supported concentrations of nesting raptors, such as Cedar Canyon, Four-J Basin, Kinney Rim, etc. The appropriate level 

of protection will be determined on a case-by-case basis depending upon the species involved, natural topographic barriers, and line-of-sight 

distances, etc. Different species of raptors may require different types of protective measures. 

WLIFE-13 --Project components, such as permanent and high profile structures, i.e., buildings, storage tanks, powerlines, roads, 

well pads, etc., are prohibited within an appropriate distance of active raptor nests. The appropriate distance (usually 

less than 1⁄2 mile) will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary depending upon the species involved, 

natural topographic barriers, and line-of-sight distances, etc. Placement of facilities, "on" (very low profile) or below 

ground, and temporary disruptive activities, such as occur with pipeline construction, seismic activity, etc., could be 

granted exceptions within 1⁄2 mile of active raptor nests, in certain circumstances. 

WLIFE-14 --Nesting raptors will be protected by restricting disruptive activities seasonally within 1⁄2 to 1 mile radius of occupied 

raptor nesting sites. 

WLIFE-15 --Raptor nest surveys will be conducted within a 1-mile radius, or linear distance of proposed surface uses or 

activities, if such activities are proposed to be conducted during raptor nesting seasons, usually between February 

1 and July 31. 

WLIFE-16 Fences on public lands will be removed, modified, or reconstructed if documented wildlife or wild horse conflicts occur. 

Introduction of herder control will be encouraged as an alternative to fencing. All constructed fences will follow construction standards 

and design (BLM Manual 1740) and will be located and designed to not impede wildlife and wild horse movement. 

WLIFE-17 Livestock and wild horse water developments in crucial habitat could be allowed if they conform with wildlife objectives 

and do not result in adverse impacts to the crucial habitat. 

WLIFE-18 The cooperative management agreement with the WGFD for annual monitoring, maintenance, and the development of additional 

waters will continue as needed. Livestock water developments will be modified or protected where possible to enhance wildlife habitat and 

to maintain or enhance water quality. 

621
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

WILDLIFE 

MANAGEMENT 

(continued) 

WOODLAND RESOURCE

MANAGEMENT

Objectives and Actions 

WLIFE-19 Aquatic, wetland, and riparian habitat are not suitable for disposal unless opportunities exist for land exchange for lands 

of equal or better value. BLM will consider acquiring additional lands along perennial waters and wetlands. Water rights for BLM water 

developments will be pursued as appropriate. Water developments for livestock and wild horse use on crucial habitat could be 

considered when consistent with wildlife habitat needs. 

WLIFE-20 Needed special management and riparian management exclosures will be developed and/or maintained, and exclosure 

plans will be implemented for enhancement of wildlife habitat. Exclosures are closed to livestock grazing use and no AUMs in these 

areas will be available for livestock use. 

WLIFE-21 Management toward proper functioning condition or desired future condition of riparian areas will be implemented. 

Executive Order 11990 for the protection of wetlands will apply. 

WLIFE-22 Seasonal restrictions for surface disturbing activities to protect game fish and special status fish populations during 

spawning will be applied as necessary. 

WLIFE-23 Habitat management plans will be developed, where needed, particularly for highly developed and disturbed areas to 

mitigate wildlife habitat losses. Plans could include habitat expansion efforts, T&E species reintroduction, and population goals and 

objectives. Such actions as preparing transportation plans and reclaiming roads, seeding, and vegetation enhancement (vegetation 

treatments, fencing), water developments, and reclamation actions to reduce the amount of disturbance, will be considered. Areas identified 

for consideration of such plans include but are not limited to the Nitchie Gulch and Cedar Canyon areas. 

WLIFE-24 The BLM will continue to coordinate with APHIS - Wildlife Services (WS) and annually review their annual wildlife 

damage management plan for animal damage control activities on public lands. Areas where proposed animal damage control 

activities (all or specific methods) are not compatible with BLM planning and management prescriptions or objectives for other 

resource activities and users, will be identified on a case-by-case basis, and APHIS-WS will be requested to amend or adjust proposed 

animal damage control activities accordingly. 

WOOD-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES: To: 1) provide for healthy forest resources and primarily to meet multiple resource 

objectives (i.e., improved watershed, soils, recreation, and wildlife habitat values); 2) maintain and enhance biological diversity; 3) 

provide a long-range view of desired plant community concepts at the landscape level; and 4) identify old growth areas. 

WOOD-2 Noncommercial forest lands (woodlands) will be managed to optimize cover and enhance habitat for wildlife, protect soil 

and watershed values, and complement recreation uses. 

WOOD-3 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: Woodland forest areas will be managed using silvicultural practices that promote stand 

viability. Treatments could include thinning, harvesting, chaining, and burning. The vegetative material resulting from these treatments 

will normally be sold through public demand sales. 

622
Resource 

WOODLAND RESOURCE 

MANAGEMENT 

(continued) 

APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

WOOD-4 Woodland forest acreage will be maintained. Treatments may be implemented that influence successional stages, but such 

treatments will not permanently convert the areas to another vegetation type. Old aspen stands may be replaced by stands of sprouting 

aspen by various treatment methods (e.g., burning). Old decadent trees may be left standing or downed to provide cover or other habitat 

for wildlife (e.g., Animal Inn), and juniper stands may be replaced where they are encroaching into other vegetation types. 

WOOD-5 Silvicultural treatments in mature timber stands will be designed to improve wildlife habitat and watershed condition, i.e., 

create small openings to provide forage for wildlife and accumulate snow drifts to increase moisture. 

WOOD-6 Cottonwood trees are not available for any harvesting. 

WOOD-7 Habitat fragmentation will be prevented if it has a negative ecological effect. 

WOOD-8 Special management areas (old growth, scientific research areas) will be identified and appropriate management 

incorporated into activity plans. 

WOOD-9 Firewood cutting for camping purposes will be limited to designated areas (this mainly applies to the area around developed 

recreation sites). 

623
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource Objectives and Actions 

SPECIAL DESIGNATION MANAGEMENT AREAS ON BLM-ADMINISTERED PUBLIC LANDS 

Greater Sand Dunes ACEC 

General Area 

SAND-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To preserve and protect the integrity of the unique values in the area for future public use 

and enjoyment. These values include the unusual geological features associated with the sand dunes and the Boars Tusk; the 

biological interrelationships supported by the dunes, especially the Steamboat desert elk herd, mule deer herd, and other dependent 

plants and animals; and a variety of recreation uses. 

SAND-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: The ACEC designation for the BLM-administered public lands in the Greater Sand Dunes 

ACEC area is retained (38,650 acres). 

SAND-3 Any surface disturbing activities within the Wasatch and Green River Formations require paleontological clearance. 

SAND-4 Surface disturbing activities would be managed to avoid recreation sites. 

SAND-5 The BLM-administered public lands in the ACEC will be managed consistent with the Class II visual resource management 

classification. Management actions on the BLM-administered public lands classified as Class II visual resource management lands will 

be designed to retain the existing character of the landscape. The visual impacts of facilities (e.g., producing wells) or other visual intrusions 

in the area will be evaluated and mitigated to the extent reasonable. Materials used for improvements must be compatible with the natural 

character of the area to reduce intrusive visual effects on the natural environment. 

SAND-6 The BLM-administered public lands in the Greater Sand Dunes area, and the area within 1 mile or the visual horizon 

(whichever is closer) of the area, are avoidance areas for new rights-of-way. 

SAND-7 The BLM-administered public lands in the area are closed to mineral material sales. 

SAND-8 Livestock grazing objectives would be evaluated, and as needed, modified to be consistent with the management objectives 

for the area. Grazing systems will be designed to achieve desired plant communities and proper functioning condition of watersheds 

(upland and riparian). 

SAND-9 Maintenance and use of existing necessary rangeland improvements is allowed. 

SAND-10 Wild horse use in the area will be consistent with the Great Divide Basin Wild Horse Herd Management Plan and the 

management objectives for the area. No wild horse traps will be constructed within the area. 

SAND-11 To support and improve the diversity of wildlife species within the area, wildlife habitat on the BLM-administered public 

lands will be protected, maintained, or enhanced. Crucial elk winter range in the area will be maintained as an essential component 

of the Steamboat Mountain-Sands elk habitat. 

624
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

Greater Sand Dunes ACEC 

General Area 

(continued) 

Greater Sand Dunes ACEC 

Western Portion 

Greater Sand Dunes ACEC 

Eastern Portion 

Objectives and Actions 

SAND-12 Projects to improve the interdunal ponds for bird, amphibian, and mammal habitat will be considered and evaluated for 

development on the BLM-administered public lands. 

SAND-13 Interpretive materials and educational programs may be developed to describe wildlife, cultural, and other values in the area. 

SAND-14 Native vegetation will be maintained and protected to allow natural plant succession to continue. 

SAND-15 A diversity of non-motorized recreation uses, including hiking, bird-watching, photography, sightseeing, and hunting, will 

be encouraged. Appropriate recreation facilities will be developed and maintained on BLM-administered public lands to provide for a 

diversity of motorized and non-motorized recreation uses. 

SAND-16 Two roads that pass through or adjacent to the area will be designated as part of the Tri-Territory backcountry byway. 

SAND-17 Camping is restricted to the BLM 14-day limit, and subject to "Pack In-Pack Out" requirements for trash, etc. 

SAND-18 The western portion of the Greater Sand Dunes area is bounded on the east by the Sand Dunes WSA boundary and on the 

west by the Greater Sand Dunes ACEC boundary. 

SAND-19 The portion of the area that overlaps the WSAs is closed to off-road vehicles, including over-the-snow vehicles, and some 

mechanized vehicles to maintain the unique naturalness, solitude, and primitive and unconfined recreational opportunities. 

SAND-20 This overlap portion will also be closed to mineral location, entry under the land laws, and geophysical activities. The oil 

shale withdrawal will remain in effect until a comprehensive study is completed for the area and, if necessary, lands could be 

identified to be withdrawn for protection of their resource values. 

SAND-21 The approximately 4,360 acres of Federal coal lands in the area are closed to further consideration for coal leasing and 

development. 

SAND-22 Management of this area is guided by the "Interim Management Guidelines for Lands Under Wilderness Review" (includes 

Buffalo Hump and Sand Dunes WSAs). 

SAND-23 Exchanges for acquisition will be pursued to enhance the management of resources in the area (approximately 1,920 acres). 

SAND-24 The eastern portion of the Greater Sand Dunes area is bounded on the west by the Sand Dunes WSA and on the east by 

the ACEC boundary. 

625
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

Greater Sand Dunes ACEC 

Eastern Portion 

(continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

SAND-25 Activities in the area will be required to conform with visual resource management classifications and prescriptions. 

SAND-26 Geophysical activity, including off-road vehicle travel, is allowed, provided resource damage is minimized and the activities 

conform with ORV designations and transportation plans for the area. 

SAND-27 The relatively pristine portion of the eastern area that has no developments (approximately 8,800 acres), including the base 

of Steamboat Rim, will be managed to protect big game habitat, vegetation communities, and visual and recreation resources. 

SAND-28 Road construction and new access may not be feasible for much of the entire eastern portion. To prevent conflicts with big game, 

recreation users, and other resource and land use activities, alternative access methods may be needed (use of existing or designated roads 

or pads, seasonal travel requirements or restrictions, use of helicopters, etc.). 

SAND-29 Activities will not be permitted to disrupt access to or use of developed and semi-developed recreation sites. Activities that 

are incompatible with recreation sites will be managed to avoid these sites. 

SAND-30 Approximately 9,840 acres of Federal coal lands in the area are closed to coal leasing and development by surface mining 

methods and related surface facilities and activities. This area is open to consideration for coal leasing by subsurface mining methods 

with placement of surface facilities extremely limited. 

SAND-31 Surface disturbing activities, geophysical activities, and oil and gas exploration and development activities are restricted 

seasonally on crucial big game winter ranges and big game birthing areas. Exceptions to this restriction may be approved for activities 

such as oil and gas development, rights-of-way, construction, and range improvement development, if conditions described in Appendix 

4 apply. Once an operation starts (such as oil and gas drilling/completion), it would be allowed to be completed into or through the winter. 

Decision points for shutdown due to unacceptable winter conditions occur between exploration or development stages, such as pad 

construction and drilling startup, and between drilling/completion and production facility installation. 

SAND-32 Surface water, soils, and shallow aquifers will be protected from contamination by practices such as closed drilling systems 

or installation of pit liners. Pit liners will be removed prior to reserve pit reclamation. Dune ponds will not be used as water sources 

for development activities. 

626
Resource 

Greater Sand Dunes ACEC 

Eastern Portion 

(continued) 

Greater Sand Dunes ACEC 

Crookston Ranch and Boars

Tusk Portion

APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

SAND-33 This portion of the ACEC is an avoidance area for rights-of-way. Some facilities could be allowed if analysis indicates that 

the management objectives for the area could be met. New linear facilities such as pipelines and powerlines in areas of ongoing 

development may be laid on the surface, or buried adjacent to access roads or within existing concentration areas containing such lines. 

Pipelines in the stabilized dune areas will be installed as surface lines to avoid unnecessary disturbance of vegetation. Surface gas pipelines 

will be monitored by the operators to identify potential hazards to ORV users. Identified hazards will be marked to improve visibility. A 

recreation user map will be developed in cooperation with oil and gas operators to show the location of aboveground facilities (e.g., 

pipelines, well production facilities, snow fences, etc.). 

SAND-34 Any proposed activity or use that involves surface disturbance will require appropriate engineering design, geotechnical analysis, 

mitigation planning, etc. 

SAND-35 Abandoned pipelines and other unnecessary facilities (e.g., snow fence) in unstabilized dune areas will be removed. 

SAND-36 About 10,500 acres of unstabilized dunes are designated open to off-road vehicle travel on the active sand dunes. 

SAND-37 About 5,810 acres of stabilized dunes are designated as limited to existing roads and trails for off-road vehicle travel. 

SAND-38 The Crookston Ranch site will be managed to preserve its historic features and for the interpretation of ranching history 

in the area. About 500 acres of BLM-administered public lands surrounding the site (the area within a 1⁄2 mile radius) will be 

managed to preserve the setting of the historic ranch. 

SAND-39 Crookston Ranch is closed to: 

-surface disturbing activities; 

-mineral material sales; and 

-the use of explosives and blasting; 

SAND-40 The Crookston Ranch and surrounding 500-acre area are closed to surface mining activities such as coal mining, and to 

the placement of related surface facilities. 

SAND-41 The Crookston Ranch area is open to consideration of activities such as fencing, interpretive signs, or transportation 

barriers to ensure protection of the sites. Facilities are prohibited from being developed on site. Either a protective right-of-way 

or withdrawal for the Crookston Ranch will be pursued to accomplish this. 

SAND-42 Fires in the Crookston Ranch area will be immediately suppressed if there is any potential of the structures being burned. 

627
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

Greater Sand Dunes ACEC 

Crookston Ranch and Boars

Tusk Portion

(continued) 

Deferred Decisions in the

Eastern Portion of the

Greater Sand Dunes Area

Objectives and Actions 

SAND-43 Off-road vehicle use is limited to designated roads and trails in this area. 

SAND-44 The Boars Tusk will be managed to preserve its value as a geologic feature. 

SAND-45 The Boars Tusk area (about 90 acres) is closed to: 

-surface disturbing activities; 

-mineral material sales; and 

-use of explosives and blasting. 

SAND-46 The area within 1⁄2 mile radius of Boars Tusk including Boars Tusk, (about 500 acres) is closed to blasting and explosive 

charges. 

SAND-47 Off-road vehicle travel is limited to designated roads and trails. The road around Boars Tusk is closed. 

SAND-48 The Boars Tusk area is open to consideration of activities such as fencing, interpretive signs, or transportation barriers 

to ensure protection of the site. Facilities are prohibited from being developed on the actual geologic feature. 

SAND-49 The Boars Tusk and about 1,400 acres of BLM-administered public lands in the surrounding area will be managed to retain 

natural and geologic values. The area is closed to any surface mining activity such as coal mining and any related surface facilities. 

The area is open to consideration of coal leasing by subsurface mining methods only. Any activities or ancillary facilities related to 

subsurface mining are prohibited. 

SAND-50 The issuance of Federal minerals leases on BLM-administered public lands in the eastern portion of the Sand Dunes area 

(about 16,390 acres) is contingent upon completing a coordinated activity plan (CAP) encompassing the combined Steamboat 

Mountain and Greater Sand Dunes areas. This detailed implementation plan will identify areas of feasible access, allowable road 

densities, and amount and acceptable types of development in the area (e.g., field unitization may be a requirement for oil and gas 

development activities in the area). Drilling of additional oil and gas wells or production from temporarily shut-in wells could be allowed 

upon completion of the activity or implementation plan. 

SAND-51 Deferred actions and mitigation requirements will apply to all surface disturbing activities, not just those related to oil and 

gas exploration and development. Surface disturbing and disruptive activities, such as road or utility development, construction, drilling, 

etc., will be deferred until the CAP is completed. The CAP will cover such things as transportation; drilling pad density, drilling, and 

operations after well completion; development and location of range improvements; recreational activities, etc. 

628
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

Oregon Buttes ACEC 

South Pass Historic

Landscape ACEC

Objectives and Actions 

ORE-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To: 1) protect and enhance the scenic integrity as an historic landmark; and 2) protect the 

significant wildlife values that are found in the area. 

ORE-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: The existing ACEC (3,450 acres) designation is retained. 

ORE-3 The ACEC is closed to: 1) surface disturbing activities that could adversely affect the resource values in the area; 2) mineral 

material sales for sand, gravel, or other types of construction or building materials; and 3) motorized vehicle travel, including those 

utilized for seismograph operations. 

ORE-4 The ACEC is open to consideration of such activities as fencing, interpretive signs, or construction of barriers to ensure 

protection to the area. Restrictions for raptors and big game parturition areas apply. 

ORE-5 Livestock grazing objectives and management practices will be evaluated and, as needed, modified to be consistent with the 

management objectives for this area. Grazing systems will be designed to achieve desired plant communities and proper functioning 

condition of watersheds (upland and riparian). 

ORE-6 Wild horse management in the area would be consistent with the Divide Basin Wild Horse Herd Management Plan and the 

management objectives for the area (2,560 acres). No wild horse traps will be constructed within the area. 

ORE-7 The Oregon Buttes ACEC will be managed consistent with the Class II visual resource management classification. 

Management actions will be designed to blend into the natural landscape and retain the existing character of the landscape. 

SOUTH-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To protect the visual and historical integrity of the historic trails and surrounding viewscape. 

SOUTH-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: The 53,780 acres of BLM-administered public lands in the South Pass Historic Landscape area 

are designated the South Pass Historic Landscape ACEC. The ACEC will be evaluated to determine if it meets the criteria for 

nomination to the National Register of Historic Places. 

SOUTH-3 The South Pass Historic Landscape encompasses the viewshed along the Oregon, Mormon Pioneer, California, and Pony 

Express trails and the Lander Cutoff (about 16.42 miles of trail with a 6-mile wide corridor along the Oregon, Mormon Pioneer, and 

California trails, and a 2-mile wide corridor along the Lander Cutoff). 

629
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

South Pass Historic 

Landscape ACEC 

(continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

SOUTH-4 The landscape is open to consideration of mineral leasing and mineral material sales, provided that effects to the visual 

and cultural resource values could be mitigated. 

SOUTH-5 Most of the ACEC is also open to exploration and development of locatable minerals. A plan of operations is required 

to address measures to mitigate affects to the viewshed before any mining claim activity is allowed. A withdrawal of about 5,260 

acres from mineral location and entry under public land laws will be pursued, if necessary. 

SOUTH-6 A right-of-way grant has been authorized, but not yet issued, for the Altamont Pipeline Company to build a pipeline across public 

lands through the South Pass Historic Landscape Area. 

SOUTH-7 Should the Altamont Pipeline grant be issued, it will be a one-time right-of-way authorization through the South Pass 

Historic Landscape Area. Future rights-of-way across public lands through this area (for linear utilities, transmission lines, 

communication sites, roads and highways, etc.), that could adversely affect the values of the historic landscape are prohibited. In 

addition, should the Altamont Pipeline not be built, the South Pass Historic Landscape Area will be closed to any subsequent right-ofway proposal, to either replace or substitute for the Altamont Pipeline, or any similar future proposed action across public lands 

in the area. 

SOUTH-8 About 23,640 acres (within the JMH project area) surrounding the trails and visible from the trails are closed to surface 

disturbing activities that could adversely affect the viewshed. This is an exclusion area for all rights-of-way. 

SOUTH-9 Off-road vehicle travel is limited to designated roads and trails in areas that are visible from the historic trails. 

SOUTH-10 About 22,190 acres (within the JMH project area) that are shielded by topography and not visible from the trail are open 

to development activities if they are subordinate to the landform and not visible from the historic trails, and provided that 

environmental analysis indicates that the visual integrity of the area can be maintained. Rights-of-way will be managed to avoid this 

area, and this area will not be considered as a preferred route for linear facilities. Small feeder lines could be allowed if analysis 

indicates that the visual integrity of the area will not be compromised. Rights-of-way along roads in the area could also be allowed if they 

did not compromise the visual integrity of the area. The prescriptions for the management of historic trails will also apply to this area. 

SOUTH-11 Off-road vehicle travel is limited to existing roads and trails in these areas that are shielded by topography. 

SOUTH-12 All activities for the ACEC will be managed consistent with the Class II visual resource management classification. All 

management actions will be designed and located to blend into the natural landscape and to not be visually apparent to the casual viewer. 

The scenic values of the Highway 28 visual corridor (3 linear miles) will be protected. 

630
Resource 

South Pass Historic 

Landscape ACEC 

(continued) 

Steamboat Mountain ACEC 

APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

SOUTH-13 Generally, vibroseis activity and shot hole activity is prohibited on and within 300 feet of the historic trails. Other 

geophysical operations may be allowed within the historic trails corridors (about 16.42 miles) if site specific analysis determines that 

no effects adverse to the visual and historical integrity of the trails will occur. 

SOUTH-14 The entire ACEC is open to consideration of such activities that meet the objectives for the area. Activities include but 

are not limited to fencing, interpretive signs, or construction of barriers to ensure protection of the landscape. 

SOUTH-15 Livestock grazing objectives and management practices will be evaluated and, as needed, modified to be consistent with 

the management objectives for this area. Grazing systems will be designed to achieve desired plant communities and proper 

functioning condition of watersheds (upland and riparian). 

SOUTH-16 Wild horse management in the area will be consistent with the Great Divide Basin Wild Horse Herd Management Plan 

and the management objectives for the area. No wild horse traps will be constructed within areas that are visible from the trails. 

STEAM-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVES: To: 1) enhance and maintain the water quality, vegetation, soil, and wildlife resources to 

ensure biological diversity and a healthy ecosystem; 

STEAM-2 2) maintain the unique diverse habitats (big sagebrush, aspen, limber pine, and mountain shrub communities) in the 

Steamboat Mountain area, especially on stabilized sand dunes along Steamboat Rim, Indian Gap, and in the Johnson, Lafonte, and 

Box Canyon areas; and 

STEAM-3 3) provide suitable habitat to maintain the continued existence of the Steamboat elk herd and deer herd populations. 

STEAM-4 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: The Steamboat Mountain area (43,270 acres) is designated an ACEC. 

STEAM-5 All activities will be designed to place priority consideration on elk habitat over conflicting land uses to ensure continued 

elk use of the area. Steamboat Rim and the base of the rim will be managed to protect big game habitat, vegetation communities, 

and visual and recreation resources. 

STEAM-6 The ACEC is open to actions that will enhance the management objectives for the area. Actions that may be considered 

include such things such as fencing, interpretive signs, or construction of vehicle barriers. 

STEAM-7 Leasing and development of federal coal in the area will be considered for subsurface mining methods only. Development 

or mine plans will be required to ensure adequate measures are taken to protect and maintain the elk herd and habitat. The location 

of surface facilities relating to subsurface mining will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Approximately 9,810 acres of federal coal 

lands with development potential occur within the Steamboat Mountain ACEC. 

631
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

Steamboat Mountain ACEC 

(continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

STEAM-8 The ACEC is closed to mineral material sales. 

STEAM-9 The ACEC is an avoidance area for rights-of-way. Communication sites are prohibited in the ACEC. Linear rights-of-way 

and geophysical activities are allowed if impacts to the elk and the unique habitats can be mitigated. 

STEAM-10 Seasonal restrictions will be applied to land and resource uses as needed, to protect elk and deer during severe winter 

conditions and during birthing periods. 

STEAM-11 The unique geological and ecological features in the ACEC will be protected by limiting or prohibiting intrusions and 

facilities, and by providing public interpretation of these features. 

STEAM-12 All activities in the area will be managed consistent with the Class II and Class III visual resource management classifications. All management actions will be designed and located to blend into the natural landscape and to not be visually apparent to the 

casual viewer. 

STEAM-13 Motorized vehicle travel is limited to designated roads and trails. Seasonal road and trail closures may be implemented 

as necessary to protect elk and deer during critical winter and birthing periods. Transportation planning will be completed to identify 

the designated roads and trails. The May 10-July 1 seasonal closure for vehicular travel in the area remains in effect to protect big game 

calving and fawning activity. 

STEAM-14 Vegetation management will be designed to maintain, preserve, or enhance biological diversity while providing big game 

forage and cover requirements. Fire management activities will be designed to meet these objectives. Management of conifer 

communities will be limited to activities designed to control insects and disease. Dead standing trees will be managed under the "Animal 

Inn" program to help maintain biological diversity. Reseeding and reforestation within the ACEC will be done with native species. Shrub 

species may be included in all seed mixes. 

STEAM-15 Livestock grazing objectives and management practices will be evaluated and, as needed, modified to be consistent with 

the management objectives for the ACEC. Grazing systems will be designed to achieve desired plant communities and proper 

functioning condition of watersheds (upland and riparian). 

STEAM-16 Any additional forage that becomes available in the ACEC will be allocated to wildlife use. 

632
Resource 

Steamboat Mountain ACEC 

(continued)

 Deferred Decisions 

APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Objectives and Actions 

STEAM-17 Management of an area where crucial elk winter range and parturition area overlap will be addressed in the CAP for 

the Steamboat and Greater Sand Dunes areas. Progressive or sequential timing of development (disturbance of only one or two small 

areas at any given time) may be required. The vegetation and habitat management objectives described for the Steamboat ACEC 

will apply. These objectives are to: enhance and maintain the water quality, vegetation, soil, and wildlife resources to ensure 

biological diversity and a healthy ecosystem; maintain the unique diverse habitats (big sagebrush, aspen, limber pine, and mountain 

shrub communities) in the Steamboat Mountain area, especially on stabilized sand dunes along Steamboat Rim, Indian Gap, and 

in the Johnson, Lafonte, and Box Canyon areas; and provide suitable habitat to maintain the continued existence of the Steamboat 

elk herd and other big game populations This important habitat overlap area is within the elk herd unit (about 27,000 acres) but 

lies outside and adjacent to the ACEC. 

STEAM-18 The fluid mineral leasing decisions and some locatable mineral decisions in the ACEC are deferred. Presently, leasing 

of unleased parcels and future parcels that may become available for lease is contingent upon completing a coordinated activity plan 

(CAP) encompassing the Steamboat Mountain and Greater Sand Dunes areas. The activity plan will identify feasible access, allowable 

road densities, guidelines for development of other minerals, and how much and what type of development will be acceptable. 

STEAM-19 Any determination to close parts of the ACEC to mineral location and to pursue withdrawals will be deferred to 

completion of the CAP. In the interim, those parts of the area not covered by withdrawals will remain open to mineral location and 

a plan of operations will be required for any locatable mineral activity. Any plan of operations submitted by a mining claimant must 

address the impacts of mining on the Steamboat elk and deer herds to ensure no unnecessary or undue degradation occurs. A site 

specific environmental analysis will be required on each action. 

STEAM-20 Deferred actions and mitigation requirements will apply to all surface disturbing activities, not just those related to oil 

and gas exploration and development. Surface disturbing and disruptive activities, such as road or utility development, general 

construction, range improvements, well drilling, exploratory drilling, etc., will be deferred until the CAP is completed. The CAP will cover 

such things as transportation; drilling pad density, drilling, and operations after well completion; development and location of range 

improvements; recreational activities, etc. 

Considerations to be Addressed in Developing the CAP 

STEAM-21 Since the area has a high development potential for oil and gas resources, some specific considerations for oil and gas 

development to be addressed in the CAP are identified here. Design transportation plans to minimize fragmentation of 

habitats by limiting roads, access, and use. Remote control operations may be needed to accomplish this. Centralizing 

locations for condensate may also be needed to limit trips into well locations, especially during parturition and crucial winter 

periods. To minimize effects to habitat, it may be necessary to place linear facilities above ground. 

633
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

White Mountain

Petroglyphs ACEC

Objectives and Actions 

STEAM-22 Vehicle use and access may not be feasible for much of the area. Access may be limited by low road densities, necessary 

to achieve area management objectives. To prevent conflicts with big game, recreation users, and other resources, 

alternative access methods may be needed (use of existing roads, pads, helicopters, etc.). 

STEAM-23 Unleased areas may be offered for lease with an NSO stipulation or, if the interior areas of such tracts are too large, they 

may not be leased. These NSO stipulation areas may only be accessed through directional drilling. The NSO stipulation 

will be used to facilitate rectifying drainage problems, under the assumption that industry is the best judge of whether 

technology enables access to the oil and gas resources under the terms of the lease. 

WHITE-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To: 1) protect cultural resource values from degradation; and 2) provide for wildlife and 

scenic values, and Native American concerns. 

WHITE-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: The ACEC designation for the 20 acres of BLM-administered public lands in the White 

Mountain Petroglyphs area is retained. 

WHITE-3 The ACEC is open to consideration of such activities as fencing, interpretive signs, or construction or placement of barriers 

to ensure protection of the site. 

WHITE-4 The entire area is an exclusion area and closed to: 

-surface disturbing activities that could adversely affect the resource values in the area; 

-the location of mining claims and entry under the land laws (the existing withdrawal will be retained); 

-mineral material sales for sand, gravel, or other types of construction or building materials; 

-the use of explosives and blasting; and 

-rights-of-way. 

WHITE-5 The ACEC is closed to off-road vehicle travel including vehicles used for geophysical exploration activities and to the use 

of fire retardant chemicals containing dyes. 

WHITE-6 Vibroseis activities are prohibited within 300 feet of the rock art site. Other kinds of activities, such as audible disturbances, 

may not be allowed if the sacred Native American values at the rock art sites would be adversely affected. 

WHITE-7 The ACEC will be managed consistent with the Class II visual resource management classification. 

634
APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource 

Red Desert Watershed

Management Area

Red Desert Watershed

Management Area

(continued)

Objectives and Actions 

WHITE-8 Lands visible within 1⁄2 mile radius of the rock art site (vista) will be an avoidance area and are open for consideration of 

such activities as fencing, interpretive signs, or construction and placement of trail and off-road vehicle barriers to ensure protection 

to the rock art. Most surface disturbing activities visible within the vista are prohibited. Some activities within 1⁄2 mile of the rock 

art but not visible from the panels will be allowed, if they do not affect the rock art site. 

RED-1 MANAGEMENT OBJECTIVE: To: manage for all resource values in the Red Desert area with emphasis on protection of visual 

resources, watershed values, and wildlife resources and to provide large areas of unobstructed views for enjoyment of scenic qualities. 

This will be accomplished through facility design and placement and using topography to shield activities, using neutral colors so facilities 

blend with the landscape, identification of backcountry byways, and providing viewing points for the public. 

RED-2 MANAGEMENT ACTIONS: The Red Desert Watershed Area includes BLM-administered public lands north of the 

checkerboard boundary within the Great Divide Basin (168,950 acres in JMH). 

RED-3 The Red Desert Watershed Area will be managed to ensure developments and activities conform with the concepts of open 

space. The area will be managed consistent with the Class II and Class III visual resource management classifications. 

RED-4 Restrictions for protection of raptors, big game crucial winter range, and big game calving/fawning areas will apply. 

RED-5 Surface disturbing activities, mineral exploration and development, and seismic activities will continue where acceptable 

subject to the management guidelines provided in the Minerals section. 

RED-6 About 2,500 acres are closed to surface disturbing activities to protect special status plant species and important historic 

resource values in the area. 

RED-7 Approximately 2,710 acres of Federal coal lands with development potential in the area are open to consideration of coal 

leasing and development (see Coal Decisions). Most of the area is open to consideration of salable minerals activities and mineral 

location. 

RED-8 The coal and stock driveway withdrawals will be revoked. 

RED-9 The preferred route for rights-of-way in the management area is the east-west window described in the Lands and Realty 

Management section. Other areas will be considered if in conformance with wildlife, watershed, cultural, and scenic resource 

management objectives. 

RED-10 Overhead powerlines are prohibited in the area. 

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APPENDIX 3 (continued) 

Resource Objectives and Actions 

RED-11 Approximately 73,360 areas are closed to ORV use and the remainder is limited to designated roads and trails. 

RED-12 Recreational activities, opportunities, and uses will be maintained. A Tri-Territory Loop and Red Desert backcountry byway 

will be established. 

RED-13 Livestock grazing objectives will be evaluated and, as needed, modified to be consistent with the management objectives for 

this area. Grazing systems will be designed to achieve desired plant communities and proper functioning condition of watersheds. 

RED-14 Wild horse management in the area will be consistent with the Great Divide Basin Wild Horse Herd Management Plan and 

the management objectives for the area. 

RED-15 Vegetation resources in the area will be managed for continued livestock grazing, and wild horse and wildlife uses in 

accordance with the management objectives for those resource values. 

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