United States Department of Agriculture

Kake to Petersburg Transmission 

Line Intertie Project 

Tongass National Forest 

Draft Environmental Impact Statement

Forest Service

Alaska Region

Tongass National Forest

Petersburg Ranger District

R10-MB-765

November 2014
ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

° F Fahrenheit 

1987 Intertie Study 1987 Southeast 

Alaska Transmission Intertie Study 

2003 Intertie Study Southeast 

Alaska Intertie Study prepared in 

2003 

2005 Feasibility Report 2005 KakePetersburg Transmission Intertie 

Study Final Report 

ACFEC Alaska Commercial Fisheries 

Entry Commission

ACHP Advisory Council on Historic 

Preservation

ACS American Community Survey

ACSR aluminum cable steel 

reinforced 

ADCCED Alaska Department of 

Commerce Community and 

Economic Development

ADEC Alaska Department of 

Environmental Conservation

ADF&G Alaska Department of Fish 

and Game

ADOT&PF Alaska Department of 

Transportation and Public Facilities

ADSS all-dielectric self-supporting 

AEA Alaska Energy Authority

AFSC Alaska Fisheries Science 

Center

AHRS Alaska Heritage Resources 

Survey

Alaska DNR Alaska Department of 

Natural Resource

ANILCA Alaska National Interest 

Lands Conservation Act of 1980

ANKHP Alaska Natural Heritage 

Program

APDES Alaska Pollutant Discharge 

Elimination System

AP&T Alaska Power & Telephone

APE Area of Potential Effect

APLIC Avian Power Line Interaction 

Committee

ARD acid rock drainage

ATM Access and Travel 

Management

BA Biological Assessment

BE Biological Evaluation

BMP best management practice

CA Census Area

CaCO3 calcium carbonate

CCHITA Central Council of the Tlingit 

and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska

CEQ Council on Environmental 

Quality

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

cfs cubic feet per second

Corps U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

dB decibel

dBA A-weighted decibel

DBH diameter at breast height

DEC Department of Environmental 

Conservation

DNR Department of Natural 

Resources

DPS Distinct Population Segment

DOL Alaska Department of Labor

EA Environmental Assessment

EIS Environmental Impact Statement

EFH essential fish habitat

EPA U.S. Environmental Protection 

Agency

ESA Endangered Species Act

ESI Existing Scenic Integrity

EVC existing visual conditions

FHWA Federal Highway 

Administration

FLPMA Federal Land Policy and 

Management Act

FMP fishery management plan

FONSI Finding of No Significant 

Impact

Forest Plan Land and Resource 

Management Plan

Forest Service U.S. Department of 

Agriculture, Forest Service

FR Forest Road 

FSH Forest Service Handbook

FSM Forest Service Manual

GIS geographic information system

GMU game management unit

GPS global positioning system

HDPE high-density polyethylene 

HRA Historical Research Associates, 

Inc.

HSI habitat suitability index

HUC Hydrologic Unit Code

IDT Interdisciplinary Team

IPEC Inside Passage Electric 

Cooperative

IRA Inventoried Roadless Area

IRP Integrated Resource Plan

ISLES Island Surveys to Locate 

Endemic Species

kcmil one thousand circular mils

KPI Kake to Petersburg 

Transmission Line Intertie

kV kilovolt

kW kilowatt

kWh kilowatt hour

LiDAR Light Detection and Ranging 

LTF log transfer facility

LUD Land Use Designation

MAF marine access facility

mG milligauss

MIS Management Indicator Species

ML maintenance level

MBF thousand board feet

MMBF million board feet

MMI Mass Movement Index

MOU Memorandum of Understanding

msl mean sea level

MVUM Motor Use Vehicle Map

MW megawatts 

NAWS non-agricultural wage and 

salary

NEPA National Environmental Policy 

Act

NESC National Electrical Safety 

Code 

NFMA National Forest Management 

Act

NFS National Forest System

NHPA National Historic Preservation 

Act

NIC non-interchangeable 

components

NMFS National Marine Fisheries 

Service

NOAA National Oceanic and 

Atmospheric Administration 

NOI Notice of Intent

NPDES National Pollutant Discharge 

Elimination System

NPFMC North Pacific Fishery 

Management Council

NRCS Natural Resources 

Conservation Service

NRHP National Register of Historic 

Places

O&M operation and maintenance

OBML objective maintenance level

OGR old-growth reserve

OHV off-highway vehicleOPML

operational maintenance level

P Primitive

PCE Power Cost Equalization

PFA post-fledging area

PMPL Petersburg Municipal Power & 

Light 

POG productive old growth

PRD Petersburg Ranger District

PWS public water supply

R10 Region 10 

RARE II Roadless Area Review and 

Evaluation

RCS road condition survey

R Rural

RM Roaded Modified

RMA riparian management area

RN Roaded Natural

ROD Record of Decision

ROS Recreation Opportunity 

Spectrum

RV recreational vehicle

SATP Southeast Alaska 

Transportation Plan 

SDM Size-Density Model

SEAPA Southeast Alaska Power 

Agency

SEIS Supplemental Environmental 

Impact Statement

SHPO State Historic Preservation 

Officer

SIO Scenic Integrity Objective

SMS Scenery Management System

SMU Soil Map Unit

SOPA Schedule of Proposed Actions

SPM Semi-Primitive Motorized

SPNM Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized

TES threatened and endangered 

species

TTRA Tongass Timber Reform Act

TUS Transportation and Utility 

System

USFWS U.S. Fish and Wildlife 

Service

USGS U.S. Geological Survey

VAC visual absorption capacity

VCU Value Comparison Unit

VMS Visual Management System

VPR visual priority route

WAA Wildlife Analysis Area

WBD Watershed Boundary Dataset

WCC watershed condition 

classification


Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line 

Intertie Project

Draft Environmental Impact Statement

United States Department of Agriculture, Forest Service Alaska Region

Lead Agency: USDA Forest Service

Tongass National Forest

Responsible Official: Forrest Cole, Forest Supervisor 

Tongass National Forest

Federal Building

Ketchikan, Alaska 99901

For Information Contact: Tom Parker

Supervisory Resource Staff

Petersburg Ranger District

12 North Nordic Drive

P.O. Box 1328

Petersburg, Alaska 99833-1328

(907) 772-3871

Abstract: The Southeast Alaska Power Agency (SEAPA), a joint action agency organized and 

existing pursuant to the laws of the State of Alaska, has proposed to build a new electric 

transmission line that would connect the isolated electric system presently serving the city of Kake 

with SEAPA’s interconnected electric network, in or near Petersburg. The Forest Service proposes 

to authorize the construction, operation, and maintenance of the proposed Kake to Petersburg 

Transmission Line Intertie (KPI) across National Forest System (NFS) lands. A special use 

authorization would be issued to allow this use. The need for this action is established by the 

Forest Service’s responsibility under the Federal Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) to 

respond to an application for a right-of-way (43 U.S.C. 1701). Title 36 Code of Federal 

Regulations (CFR) Part 251, Subpart B provides authority for reviewing and granting special use 

authorizations for transmission lines. Further direction is provided in Forest Service Manual 2700. 

The Forest Service must also consider the Tongass National Land and Resource Management Plan 

in the decision to issue a special use authorization for the Kake to Petersburg Intertie.

The EIS describes and analyzes four alternatives, including a no action alternative. There would 

be no transmission line or associated facilities constructed under the no action alternative. The 

city of Kake would continue to be served by an isolated electric system that depends upon high-cost, 

diesel generation. The proposed action alternatives range from 51.9 miles to 60.3 miles in total length, 

with 82 percent to 88 percent of their total length located on NFS lands. The proposed transmission 

line would be built to transmit power at either 69- or 138-kilovolts and would consist of single 

wood pole structures with horizontal post insulators. Average span lengths between pole 

structures would be 350 to 400 feet, with an average above-ground height of 55 feet. 

All three action alternatives follow existing NFS system roads to the extent possible, with the length 

along existing roads ranging from 58 percent to 72 percent of the total. The action alternatives all cross 

Inventoried Roadless Areas. No new roads would be built under any of the alternatives. Construction 

access in unroaded areas would be via temporary shovel trails and matting panels, with helicopter 

support, as needed. The action alternatives would all involve marine crossings. 
SUMMARY

Introduction

The Forest Service has prepared this Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to address the 

potential effects of the Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie (KPI) Project in compliance 

with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other relevant federal and state laws and 

regulations.

The KPI Project has been proposed by the Southeast Alaska Power Agency (SEAPA), a joint 

action agency organized and existing pursuant to the laws of the State of Alaska. SEAPA’s

member utilities (Ketchikan, Wrangell, and Petersburg) provide electric utility services to their 

respective service areas utilizing power generated by SEAPA’s facilities and purchased from 

SEAPA under a Power Sales Agreement. 

Project Area

The project area encompasses 493,806 acres on Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands, with the majority 

of the area located on Kupreanof Island. This total consists of 453,980 acres of National Forest 

System (NFS) lands, with the remaining lands (39,826 acres) owned and managed by the Alaska 

Department of Natural Resources (Alaska DNR), the Sealaska Corporation, Kake Tribal 

Corporation, the city of Kake, and Petersburg Borough.

Purpose and Need

The community of Kake is presently served by an isolated electric system that depends upon high-cost, 

diesel generation. This isolated system is served by a diesel plant that consists of three diesel generators 

originally installed in 1984 (1 unit) and 1993 (2 units). High operation and maintenance (O&M) 

expenses and high fuel costs make diesel generators costly to operate. In 2011, the full retail cost of 

power in Kake was 62 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh), more than five times the rate in the communities 

of Petersburg, Ketchikan, and Wrangell (Fay et al. 2012). The cost of electricity in Kake is currently 

subsidized for residential customers and public facilities through the State of Alaska’s Power Cost 

Equalization (PCE) program, which is funded on an annual basis by the State legislature. Commercial 

customers are not eligible to participate in the PCE program and there is no comparable program for 

commercial customers, who pay the full retail cost for power in Kake. The high cost of electricity is 

not conducive to economic growth and may in fact impede economic development in Kake 

because the availability of reliable low-cost power strongly influences decisions to locate new 

commercial and industrial developments in Southeast Alaska (Alexander et al. 2010, Black & 

Veatch 2012, Hittle 2014). The proposed project would connect Kake to SEAPA’s interconnected 

network and provide access to relatively low cost electricity. SEAPA’s interconnected network includes 

the communities of Ketchikan, Wrangell, and Petersburg, the Swan Lake and Lake Tyee 

hydroelectric projects, and approximately 175 miles of transmission line that extend from 

Ketchikan to Petersburg.

The Forest Service proposes to authorize the construction, operation, and maintenance of the 

proposed KPI Project across NFS lands. A special use authorization would be issued to allow this 

use. The need for this action is established by the Forest Service’s responsibility under the Federal 

Land Policy and Management Act (FLPMA) to respond to an application for a right-of-way (43 

United States Code [U.S.C.] 1701). Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 251, Subpart 

B provides authority for reviewing and granting special use authorizations for transmission lines. 

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Summary ▪ S-1
Summary

Further direction is provided in Forest Service Manual 2700. The Forest Service must also 

consider the Tongass National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan (Forest Plan) in the 

decision to issue a special use authorization for the KPI Project.

Proposed Action

The proposed action (i.e., the project proposed by the applicant) is to construct, operate, and 

maintain a new electric transmission line and associated facilities that would connect the city of 

Kake with the existing SEAPA interconnected network in Petersburg, Alaska. The proposed 

transmission line would be approximately 60 miles long. Built to transmit power at either 69 or 

138 kilovolt (kV), the proposed line would consist of single wood-pole structures with horizontal 

post insulators. Average span lengths between pole structures would be 350 to 400 feet. The 

proposed project would also include a 24-strand fiber optic communication cable. The route 

followed by the proposed action across Kupreanof Island is identified as a “Potential Power 

Transmission Corridor” on the Forest Plan Land Use Designation (LUD) map (USDA Forest 

Service 2008a). 

Decisions to be Made

Based on the environmental analysis in this EIS and in accordance with the Forest Plan and 

applicable laws, regulations, and policies, the Forest Supervisor of the Tongass National Forest 

will decide whether to authorize the construction, operation, and maintenance of the proposed KPI 

Project across NFS lands. The Forest Supervisor may decide to:

• Select one of the alternatives analyzed in the EIS, including the No Action alternative.

• Modify and then select one of the alternatives.

The decision will include, but is not limited to, the following items:

• The route for the proposed transmission line

• Any necessary project-specific mitigation measures and monitoring requirements.

Issues

NEPA documents must concentrate on the issues that are truly significant to the action in question, 

rather than amassing needless detail (40 CFR 1500.1(b)). Three potentially significant issues were 

identified through public scoping and Forest Service review of the proposed alternatives. These 

issues were considered potentially significant because they had the potential to drive an 

alternative. These issues may be summarized as follows:

• Inventoried Roadless Areas (IRAs) – All of the action alternatives cross IRAs. Road 

construction in IRAs, if it were to occur, would reduce roadless acres within the project 

area and could affect roadless values. 

• Unroaded Character of the City of Kupreanof – Residents of the city of Kupreanof 

expressed concern that development of an electric transmission line on National Forest 

System (NFS) lands behind their community would affect the unroaded character of the 

community and have impacts on the quality of life of residents. 

• Petersburg Creek – Concern was expressed about potential impacts to Petersburg Creek, 

an important resource for fish and wildlife, recreation and tourism, and subsistence. 

S-2 ▪ Summary Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
Summary

Although potentially significant, these issues were addressed through the alternative development 

process for this project and are, therefore, no longer considered potentially significant issues. The 

following paragraphs summarize how each of these issues was addressed.

• IRAs – The proposed action alternatives were modified during the alternative 

development process and no new roads are proposed for IRAs. Construction access in 

unroaded areas, including IRAs, would be via temporary shovel trails and temporary 

matting panels, with helicopters used to support these activities. As a result, IRAs are no 

longer considered a key or significant issue.

• Unroaded Character of the City of Kupreanof – The initially proposed alternative that 

passed behind the city of Kupreanof (the Northern Alternative, Option 2) has been 

eliminated from further consideration. As a result, the unroaded character of the city of 

Kupreanof is no longer considered a key or significant issue.

• Petersburg Creek – The initially proposed alternative that crossed Petersburg Creek (the 

Northern Alternative, Option 2) has been eliminated from further consideration. As a 

result, Petersburg Creek is no longer considered a key or significant issue.

Summary of Public Concerns

No other potentially significant issues were identified. More general concerns were expressed 

during public scoping about potential impacts to other resources, but these concerns were resolved 

or addressed through one or more of the Forest Service’s standard evaluation categories: potential 

concerns are already addressed by the Forest Plan or would be addressed through implementation 

of Standards and Guidelines, Best Management Practices (BMPs), or project-specific mitigation, 

or would be addressed during processes or impact analyses routinely conducted by the 

Interdisciplinary Team (IDT). The following paragraphs summarize the identified concerns by 

resource:

• Aquatic Resources – The proposed project could affect steelhead and salmon streams, 

resident fish-bearing streams, fish habitat, water quality, and marine species. 

• Botany/Vegetation – The proposed project could affect old-growth habitat. The project 

could spread non-native species.

• Wildlife and Subsistence – The proposed project could affect wildlife and wildlife habitat. 

Concerns were expressed about potential impacts to the beach fringe along Frederick 

Sound, including deer winter range, old growth habitat, habitat fragmentation, and 

waterfowl flyways. Black bear, moose, Sitka deer, wolf, marten, bald eagles, goshawks, 

and owls were identified as species of concern. The proposed project could affect 

subsistence by increasing access (off-highway vehicle [OHV]/vehicle use) and negatively 

affecting habitat. 

• Scenery – The presence of an electric transmission line could negatively affect scenic 

resources. Most comments on this issue were concerned about impacts to the city of 

Kupreanof and Petersburg Creek.

• Recreation and Tourism – The project could affect recreation and tourism. The presence 

of an electric transmission line could affect the remote recreation character of the area. 

Dispersed recreation sites along the beaches of Frederick Sound, bear viewing and hunting 

at Portage Bay, and kayaking and boating in Portage Bay and Duncan Canal were 

identified as potential locations of concern. Concern was also expressed about potential 

impacts to recreation and tourism-related floatplane landing approaches and takeoff 

patterns. Comments also expressed general concern about potential impacts to fishing, 

hunting and trapping, bird and wildlife viewing, kayaking, and tourism.

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Summary ▪ S-3
Summary

• IRAs – The presence of an electric transmission line could affect the roadless character of 

the IRAs crossed by the proposed project.

• Cultural Resources - The proposed project could affect cultural resources. Identified areas 

of potential concern included a known fish trap, Tlingit portage trail, and reported fish 

traps and camps.

 Social and Economic Environment – The proposed project would benefit the city of Kake 

by providing a relatively low cost and reliable source of power to city residents, public 

facilities and services, local businesses, and future development. The proposed project 

could affect outfitter/guide businesses and tourism, as well as commercial and recreational 

fisheries. Concern was also expressed about the estimated cost of building and 

maintaining the transmission line, especially during winter.

 Air, Noise, Public Health and Safety – The proposed project could result in 

electromagnetic field (EMF)-related impacts to human health and other resources. The 

presence of an electric transmission line could create safety issues for aircraft following 

bush plane paths along Portage Inlet and Duncan Canal. The project could result in

impacts to air quality, including emissions and dust from vehicles and equipment.

Alternatives Considered in Detail

Alternative 1 – No Action

Alternative 1 is the no action alternative and is analyzed to provide a baseline for evaluation of the 

impacts associated with the action alternatives. Under this alternative, the Forest Service would 

not provide authorization for the proposed project and a new electric transmission line would not 

be built. The city of Kake would continue to be served by the existing, isolated electric system, which 

depends upon high-cost diesel generation. 

Alternative 2 – Proposed Action

Alternative 2 is 59.9 miles long. The majority of the transmission line (57.3 miles) would be above 

ground, with the remaining 2.6 miles located beneath Frederick Sound and the Wrangell Narrows (1.2 

miles) and underground along Sandy Beach Road in Petersburg (1.4 miles). The average span length 

between structures would range from 350 to 400 feet and approximately 813 single-pole structures 

would be installed (Table S-1). Alternative 2 would also include a 24-strand fiber optic 

communication cable. An estimated 61 percent or 35.2 miles of the overhead portion of the proposed 

transmission line would follow existing roads. A total of 7.6 miles of temporary access spurs would be 

required for this alternative. Access for construction along the remaining 22.1 miles (39 percent) of 

the overhead portion of the route would be via shovel trails supported by temporary matting panels 

(Figure S-1). 

This alternative starts at the existing SEAPA substation south of Petersburg. Staying south of 

Petersburg the alternative follows an existing gravel road 3.5 miles east-northeast to Frederick 

Sound. The line would continue northwest along Sandy Beach Road to Outlook Park. The 

portion of the line extending along Sandy Beach Road would be placed underground. In addition, 

the existing distribution line along this road would also be placed underground. 

From Outlook Park, the proposed transmission line crosses Frederick Sound and the mouth of the 

Wrangell Narrows via a 1.2-mile-long horizontal directional bore that would involve placing a 

cable beneath the channel. Coming ashore on Kupreanof Island, near Prolewy Point, the 

alternative then follows the Northern route “Potential Power Transmission Corridor” to Kake. 

The Northern route “Potential Power Transmission Corridor” follows the unroaded east shoreline 

of Kupreanof Island north to the mouth of Twelve Mile Creek. From there the corridor turns 

S-4 ▪ Summary Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
Summary

southwest away from the shoreline and parallels existing Forest Road 6310, south of Portage Bay. 

From the south side of Portage Bay, the corridor continues west to Forest Road 6030, and from 

there parallels Forest Roads 6030 and 6040 to Kake (Figure S-1). 

Alternative 3 – Northern Route with Submarine Cable 

Alternative 3 starts at the existing SEAPA substation south of Petersburg. Staying south of 

Petersburg, the alternative follows an existing gravel road 3.5 miles east-northeast to Frederick 

Sound. The transmission line would cross Frederick Sound via a 3.1-mile-long submarine cable 

that would come ashore near Prolewy Point on the east shore of Kupreanof Island. This proposed 

crossing is the only difference between Alternatives 2 and 3. This crossing would originate near 

Sandy Beach Park. 

This alternative is 60.3 miles long. The majority of the transmission line (57.3 miles) would be 

above ground, with the remaining 3.1 miles located along the floor of Frederick Sound. The average 

span length between structures would range from 350 to 400 feet and approximately 813 single-pole 

structures would be installed (Table S-1). Alternative 3 would also include a 24-strand fiber optic 

communication cable. An estimated 61 percent or 35.2 miles of the overhead portion of the 

proposed transmission line would follow existing roads. A total of 7.6 miles of temporary access 

spurs would be required for this alternative. Access for construction along the remaining 22.1 miles 

(39 percent) of the overhead portion of the route would be via shovel trails supported by temporary 

matting panels in some wetland areas (Figure S-1).

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route

Alternative 4 is 51.9 miles long. The majority of the transmission line (50.4 miles) would be 

above ground, with the remaining 1.5 miles located under Wrangell Narrows and Duncan Canal. 

The average span length between structures would range from 350 to 400 feet and approximately 

748 single-pole structures would be installed (Table S-1). Alternative 4 would also include a 24-

strand fiber optic communication cable. An estimated 74 percent or 37.3 miles of the overhead 

portion of the proposed transmission line would follow existing roads. A total of 6.2 miles of 

temporary access spurs would be required for this alternative. Access for construction along the 

remaining 13.1 miles (26 percent) of the overhead portion of the route would be via shovel trails 

supported by temporary matting panels in some wetland areas (Figure S-2).

This alternative would connect to the existing Tyee-Wrangell-Petersburg transmission line 

approximately 8 miles south of Petersburg and would require a new tap or small switch yard at 

this location. The alternative would then cross the Wrangell Narrows and Duncan Canal via 

submarine cable crossings, approximately 0.6 mile and 0.9 mile in length, respectively. From the 

Wrangell Narrows crossing, the Center-South route corridor follows Forest Road 6350 across the 

Lindenberg Peninsula to Duncan Canal. Across Duncan Canal, the corridor continues across an 

unroaded area to Forest Road 6314S and from there parallels existing NFS roads to Kake (Figure 

S-2). 

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Summary ▪ S-5
Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Figure S-1. Alternatives 2 and 3 
Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Figure S-2. Alternative 4 
Summary

Comparison of Alternatives

Table S-1 provides a summary of the proposed alternatives and the associated environmental 

effects assessed in this EIS. The effects are summarized from Chapter 3, which should be 

consulted for a full understanding of these and other environmental consequences. 

Table S-1. Comparison of Alternatives 

Unit of Measure

Alternative

1 - No 

Action

2 - Proposed 

Action 3 4

Project Description

Total Length (miles) 0 59.9 60.3 51.9

Miles on NFS Lands 0 48.9 50.6 45.9

Voltage 0 69 or 138 kV 69 or 138 kV 69 or 138 kV

Primary Structure Type 0 Single wood pole Single wood 

pole

Single wood pole

Average Structure Height (feet) 0 55 55 55

Estimated Number of Structures 0 813 813 748

Average Span Length Between Structures 

(feet)

0 350 to 400 350 to 400 350 to 400

Overhead Length (miles) 0 57.3 57.3 50.4

 - Length along Existing Roads (miles) 0 33.7 33.7 36.6

 - Length along Existing Roads (%) 0 59% 59% 73%

Marine Crossings (miles) 0 1.2 3.1 1.5

 - Submarine Cable (miles) 0 -- 3.1 1.5

 - Directional Bore (miles) 0 1.2 -- --

Underground Length (miles) 0 1.4 -- --

Environmental Effects

Soils and Geology

New Detrimental Soil Disturbance:

- On NFS Lands (acres) 0 110 110 89

Cumulative Detrimental Soil Disturbance:

- On NFS Lands (acres) 0 159 159 170

Aquatic Resources

Subwatersheds with more than 20% of Basin 

Area Harvested Since 1981 (number)1/

0 0 0 0

Number of Proposed Stream Crossings by Shovel Trail/Matting Panel:

- Class I 0 10 10 28

- Class II 0 20 20 14

- Class III 0 16 16 4

Number of Proposed Stream Crossings by Temporary Access Spur:

- Class I 0 6 6 0

- Class II 0 5 5 6

- Class III 0 0 0 1

Timber

Total Productive Forest Land Disturbed 

(acres)

0 358 358 496

Total Suitable Forest Land Disturbed (acres) 3/ 0 135 135 253

Removal of Timber from the Regional 

Timber Base (Net Sawlog Volume) (MBF)

0 1,524 1,524 1,693

S-8 ▪ Summary Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
Summary

Table S-1. Comparison of Alternatives (continued)

Unit of Measure

Alternative

1 - No 

Action

2 - Proposed 

Action 3 4

Botany - Rare Plants

Sensitive Plants with Potential to Occur (risk):

- Large yellow lady’s slipper orchid4/ 0 Low to Moderate Low to Moderate Low to Moderate

- Lobaria amplissima4/ 0 Low to Moderate Low to Moderate Low to Moderate

- Alaska rein orchid4/ 0 Low to Moderate Low to Moderate Low to Moderate

- Lesser round-leaved orchid4/ 0 Low to Moderate Low to Moderate Low to Moderate

Invasive Plants

Total Acres Disturbed 0 891 873.1 739.4

Risk of Spread (Relative)5/ 0 Highest Second Highest Lowest

Wetlands

Project-Related Disturbance to Wetlands (acres):

 - Forested Wetlands 0 166 157 106

 - Emergent Short-sedge Wetlands 0 4 4 4

 - Moss Muskegs 0 95 93 67

 - Forested Wetland/Emergent Sedge 

Complex

0 238 238 116

Total Wetland Disturbance (acres)6/ 0 502 491 293

Wildlife and Subsistence

Impacts to Total POG (acres) 0 327 324 296

Impacts to High-Volume POG (acres) 0 99 97 51

Impacts to Large-Tree POG (acres) 0 12 12 3

POG affected within Beach Fringe and 

Riparian Buffers (acres)

0 182 178 130

Impacts to Deep Snow Winter Range for Deer 

(acres)

0 15 10 7

Deer Habitat Capability as Percent of 1954 

Values

0 84 83 83

Transportation

Total Unroaded Length (miles) 0 23.6 23.6 13.8

 - Length of Shovel Trails (miles) 0 21.6 21.6 6.5

 - Length of Temporary Matting (miles) 0 2.0 2.0 7.3

Length of Temporary Access Spurs (miles) 0 7.6 7.6 6.2

Number of Helicopter Pads 0 83 83 47

Scenery

Total Disturbance (acres) in:

- Distinctive Scenic Attractiveness Class 0 0 0 0

- Foreground Distance Zone 0 325 307 132

- Areas with Very High Existing Scenic 

Integrity

0 309 309 222

Recreation

Net change from SPNM, SPM, or RN ROS 

settings to RM (acres)

0 417 417 241

Inventoried Roadless Areas

Total Disturbance by IRA (acres):

- North Kupreanof (211) 0 157.3 157.3 0

- Missionary (212) 0 5.2 5.2 0

- Five Mile (213) 0 271.9 278.5 0

- South Kupreanof (214) 0 0 0 279.1

- Total IRA Disturbance 0 434.4 441.0 279.1

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Summary ▪ S-9
Summary

Table S-1. Comparison of Alternatives (continued)

Unit of Measure

Alternative

1 - No 

Action

2 - Proposed 

Action 3 4

Cultural Resources

Effects on NRHP Eligible Cultural Resource 

Sites

None None None None

Notes:

MBF = thousand board feet

POG = Productive Old-Growth

ROS = Recreation Opportunity Spectrum; SPNM = Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized; SPM = Semi-Primitive Motorized; 

RN = Roaded Natural; RM = Roaded Modified

NRHP = National Register of Historic Places

1/ Estimates since 1981 include estimated disturbance by alternative.

2/ Shovel trails and temporary access spurs are included in the roads total under each alternative for the purposes of 

analysis.

3/ These totals include both old-growth and young-growth suitable forest land.

4/ None of the alternatives would have direct or indirect effects on known populations of this sensitive plant species. 

Risk is based on potential effects to undetected populations and potential habitat.

5/ Risk of invasive plant spread is directly related to total acres disturbed, which is reflected in the relative ranking in 

this table.

6/ Totals may not sum due to rounding.

S-10 ▪ Summary Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Table of Contents ▪ i

Table of Contents 

Summary .................................................................................................................... S-1

Introduction.............................................................................................................. S-1

Project Area............................................................................................................. S-1

Purpose and Need................................................................................................... S-1

Proposed Action ...................................................................................................... S-2

Decisions to be Made .............................................................................................. S-2

Issues...................................................................................................................... S-2

Summary of Public Concerns .................................................................................. S-3

Alternatives Considered in Detail............................................................................. S-4

Alternative 1 – No Action...................................................................................... S-4

Alternative 2 – Proposed Action ........................................................................... S-4

Alternative 3 – Northern Route with Submarine Cable ......................................... S-5

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route...................................................................... S-5

Comparison of Alternatives...................................................................................... S-8

Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need ................................................................................. 1-1

Introduction.............................................................................................................. 1-1

Project Applicant.................................................................................................. 1-1

Project Area ......................................................................................................... 1-1

Document Structure ............................................................................................. 1-6

Purpose and Need................................................................................................... 1-6

Background.......................................................................................................... 1-6

Forest Service Purpose and Need ....................................................................... 1-6

Proposed Action ...................................................................................................... 1-7

Decision Framework ................................................................................................ 1-7

Relationship to the Kake Access Project.................................................................. 1-8

Relationship to the Forest Plan................................................................................ 1-8

Land Use Designations........................................................................................ 1-8

Public Involvement................................................................................................. 1-11

Scoping.............................................................................................................. 1-11

Consultation with Federally Recognized Tribal Governments and Tribal 

Corporations ...................................................................................................... 1-12

Other Agency Involvement................................................................................. 1-12

Issues.................................................................................................................... 1-14

Evaluation Categories........................................................................................ 1-14

Significant Issues ............................................................................................... 1-14

Summary of Public Concerns ................................................................................ 1-15

Federal and State Permits, Licenses and Certificates............................................ 1-17

Applicable Laws and Executive Orders.................................................................. 1-18

Availability of the Project Record ........................................................................... 1-19

Map and Number Qualification .............................................................................. 1-19

Chapter 2 – Alternatives ............................................................................................ 2-1

Introduction.............................................................................................................. 2-1

Alternative Development.......................................................................................... 2-1

Alternatives Considered in Detail............................................................................. 2-1

Alternative 1 – No Action...................................................................................... 2-2

Alternative 2 – Proposed Action ........................................................................... 2-2

Alternative 3 – Northern Route with Submarine Cable ......................................... 2-5
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ii ▪ Table of Contents Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route...................................................................... 2-6

Project Components Common to All Action Alternatives .......................................... 2-8

Voltage................................................................................................................. 2-8

Structures............................................................................................................. 2-8

Conductors......................................................................................................... 2-10

Underground Line Installation............................................................................. 2-13

Fiber Optic Cable ............................................................................................... 2-13

Pole Structure Design......................................................................................... 2-13

Substation and Switching Station Concepts ....................................................... 2-14

Right-of-Way Clearing ........................................................................................ 2-14

Access ............................................................................................................... 2-17

Helicopter Pads.................................................................................................. 2-20

Staging Areas..................................................................................................... 2-20

Marine Access and Log Transfer Facilities ......................................................... 2-20

Marine Crossings ............................................................................................... 2-21

Operation and Maintenance ............................................................................... 2-25

Final Design and Construction............................................................................ 2-25

Construction Schedule ....................................................................................... 2-28

Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Study.................................. 2-29

Alternative Intertie Routes .................................................................................. 2-29

Alternative Energy Sources ................................................................................ 2-33

Mitigation Measures............................................................................................... 2-34

Best Management Practices .................................................................................. 2-39

Monitoring .............................................................................................................. 2-41

Comparison of Alternatives .................................................................................... 2-41

Chapter 3 – Environment and Effects ....................................................................... 3-1

Introduction .............................................................................................................. 3-1

Land Divisions.......................................................................................................... 3-1

Project Area ......................................................................................................... 3-1

Value Comparison Units....................................................................................... 3-1

Game Management Units..................................................................................... 3-1

Wildlife Analysis Areas ......................................................................................... 3-1

Watershed and Subwatershed ............................................................................. 3-1

Inventoried Roadless Areas.................................................................................. 3-2

Biogeographic Province........................................................................................ 3-2

Analyzing Effects ..................................................................................................... 3-2

Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Effects................................................................ 3-2

Past, Present, and Reasonably Foreseeable Projects.......................................... 3-3

Incomplete and Unavailable Information............................................................... 3-6

Community Profiles.................................................................................................. 3-6

Kake..................................................................................................................... 3-6

Petersburg............................................................................................................ 3-7

Kupreanof............................................................................................................. 3-8

Soils and Geology.................................................................................................... 3-9

Introduction .......................................................................................................... 3-9

Affected Environment ......................................................................................... 3-10

Environmental Effects......................................................................................... 3-17

Mitigation............................................................................................................ 3-20

Aquatic Resources................................................................................................. 3-21

Introduction ........................................................................................................ 3-21
Table of Contents

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Table of Contents ▪ iii

Affected Environment......................................................................................... 3-24

Environmental Effects ........................................................................................ 3-37

Mitigation ........................................................................................................... 3-52

Marine Environment............................................................................................... 3-53

Introduction........................................................................................................ 3-53

Affected Environment......................................................................................... 3-53

Environmental Effects ........................................................................................ 3-57

Mitigation ........................................................................................................... 3-62

Timber ................................................................................................................... 3-63

Introduction........................................................................................................ 3-63

Affected Environment......................................................................................... 3-63

Environmental Effects ........................................................................................ 3-67

Mitigation ........................................................................................................... 3-71

Botany ................................................................................................................... 3-72

Introduction........................................................................................................ 3-72

Affected Environment......................................................................................... 3-73

Environmental Effects ........................................................................................ 3-78

Mitigation ........................................................................................................... 3-85

Invasive Plants ...................................................................................................... 3-87

Introduction........................................................................................................ 3-87

Affected Environment......................................................................................... 3-88

Environmental Effects ........................................................................................ 3-90

Mitigation ........................................................................................................... 3-94

Wetlands ............................................................................................................... 3-95

Introduction........................................................................................................ 3-95

Affected Environment......................................................................................... 3-96

Environmental Effects ...................................................................................... 3-100

Mitigation ......................................................................................................... 3-106

Wildlife and Subsistence...................................................................................... 3-107

Introduction...................................................................................................... 3-107

Affected Environment....................................................................................... 3-109

Environmental Effects ...................................................................................... 3-126

Mitigation ......................................................................................................... 3-154

Transportation ..................................................................................................... 3-155

Introduction...................................................................................................... 3-155

Affected Environment....................................................................................... 3-155

Environmental Effects ...................................................................................... 3-161

Scenery ............................................................................................................... 3-170

Introduction...................................................................................................... 3-170

Affected Environment....................................................................................... 3-171

Environmental Effects ...................................................................................... 3-180

Mitigation ......................................................................................................... 3-197

Recreation ........................................................................................................... 3-198

Introduction...................................................................................................... 3-198

Affected Environment....................................................................................... 3-198

Environmental Effects ...................................................................................... 3-210

Mitigation ......................................................................................................... 3-218

Inventoried Roadless Areas and Wilderness........................................................ 3-219

Introduction...................................................................................................... 3-219

Affected Environment....................................................................................... 3-220

Environmental Consequences ......................................................................... 3-226
Table of Contents

iv ▪ Table of Contents Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Cultural Resources............................................................................................... 3-230

Introduction ...................................................................................................... 3-230

Affected Environment ....................................................................................... 3-231

Environmental Consequences.......................................................................... 3-232

Mitigation and Monitoring ................................................................................. 3-233

Socioeconomics................................................................................................... 3-234

Introduction ...................................................................................................... 3-234

Affected Environment ....................................................................................... 3-235

Environmental Consequences.......................................................................... 3-247

Environmental Justice.......................................................................................... 3-254

Background and Affected Environment ............................................................ 3-254

Environmental Consequences.......................................................................... 3-255

Air Quality and Climate Change ........................................................................... 3-256

Introduction ...................................................................................................... 3-256

Affected Environment ....................................................................................... 3-256

Environmental Consequences.......................................................................... 3-257

Health and Safety, including Noise....................................................................... 3-260

Introduction ...................................................................................................... 3-260

Affected Environment ....................................................................................... 3-260

Environmental Effects....................................................................................... 3-263

Other Environmental Considerations.................................................................... 3-267

Relationship between Short-term Uses and Long-term Productivity ................. 3-267

Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Resources ................................ 3-268

Unavoidable Adverse Environmental Effects .................................................... 3-268

Chapter 4 .................................................................................................................... 4-1

References .............................................................................................................. 4-1

List of Preparers..................................................................................................... 4-22

Distribution List ...................................................................................................... 4-25

Glossary................................................................................................................. 4-29

 

 
Table of Contents

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Table of Contents ▪ v

List of Tables

Table S-1. Comparison of Alternatives................................................................. S-8 

Table 1-1. Land Use Designations in the Project Area.......................................... 1-9

Table 2-1. Summary of Characteristics by Alternative .......................................... 2-2

Table 2-2. Alternative Intertie Routes Considered, but Eliminated from 

Detailed Study ................................................................................... 2-32

Table 2-3. Site-specific Mitigation Measures for Clearing and Constructionrelated Activities ................................................................................ 2-35

Table 2-4. Comparison of Environmental Effects by Alternatives........................ 2-42

Table 3-1. Timber Harvest Projects within the VCUs Crossed by the KPI 

Project ................................................................................................. 3-4

Table SOIL-1. Existing Soil Disturbances on NFS Lands within the Analysis Area 

by Alternative..................................................................................... 3-15

Table SOIL-2. Mapped Landslides Intersecting the Analysis Area............................ 3-16

Table SOIL-3. Estimated Acres of Soil Disturbance on NFS Lands by Analysis 

Area................................................................................................... 3-18

Table SOIL-4. Estimated Acres of Cumulative Detrimental Soil Disturbance 

Lands by Analysis Area ..................................................................... 3-19

Table WAT-1. Subwatersheds Crossed by Each Alternative .................................... 3-23

Table WAT-2. Summary of Timber Harvest Acres in Analysis Area 

Subwatersheds (not including road clearings).................................... 3-26

Table WAT-3. Existing Roads in Analysis Area ........................................................ 3-28

Table WAT-4. Stream Crossings by Existing Roads in Analysis Area 

Subwatersheds.................................................................................. 3-29

Table WAT-5. Soils on Slopes Greater than 72 Percent and Landslide Summary 

for Analysis Area Subwatersheds ...................................................... 3-30

Table WAT-6. Summary of Harvested Riparian Acres in Analysis Area 

Subwatersheds.................................................................................. 3-31

Table WAT-7. Fluvial Process Groups Recognized on the Tongass National 

Forest ................................................................................................ 3-32

Table WAT-8. Stream Classes, Stream Density, and Lake / Pond Habitat within 

Project Subwatersheds...................................................................... 3-33

Table WAT-9. Change in Percent Subwatershed Harvested by Alternative and 

Watershed ......................................................................................... 3-38

Table WAT-10. Total Project Disturbance by Subwatershed by Alternative (acres).... 3-39

Table WAT-11. Number of Proposed Stream Crossings by Action Alternative ........... 3-40

Table WAT-12. Estimated Disturbance under Alternatives 2 and 3 by 

Subwatershed.................................................................................... 3-42

Table WAT-13. Estimated Stream Crossings by Stream Class and Crossing Type 

in Unroaded Areas along Alternatives 2 and 3................................... 3-43

Table WAT-14. Cumulative Impacts of Harvest on Subwatersheds Crossed by 

Alternatives 2 and 3........................................................................... 3-44

Table WAT-15. Estimated Disturbance under Alternative 4 by Subwatershed............ 3-45

Table WAT-16. Estimated Stream Crossings by Stream Class and Crossing Type 

in Unroaded Areas along Alternative 4............................................... 3-45

Table WAT-17. Cumulative Impacts of Harvest and Vegetation Clearing on 

Subwatersheds Crossed by Alternative 4 .......................................... 3-46

Table TBR-1. Productive Old-Growth Forest Volume Strata Characteristics............ 3-66

Table TBR-2. Volume Strata for Productive Forest Land, Suitable Forest Land, 
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vi ▪ Table of Contents Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

and Unsuitable Forest Land in the VCUs crossed by the Proposed 

Alternatives (acres)........................................................................... 3-66

Table TBR-3. Forest Land Classifications for Acres Disturbed by Alternative.......... 3-67

Table TBR-4. Volume Strata for Productive Forest Land, Suitable Forest Land, 

and Unsuitable Forest Land by Alternative (acres)............................ 3-68

Table TBR-5. Estimated Trees, Gross Volume, and Net Sawlog Volume Cleared 

by Alternative .................................................................................... 3-68

Table BOT-1. Known or Suspected Sensitive Plants in the Petersburg Ranger 

District with the Potential to Occur within the Analysis Area .............. 3-73

Table BOT-2. Rare Plants Observed within the Analysis Area ................................ 3-75

Table BOT-3. General Vegetation Types in the Analysis Area ................................ 3-78

Table BOT-4. General Vegetation Impacts by Action Alternative (acres)................. 3-81

Table INV-1. High Priority Invasive Plant Species found in the Analysis Area........ 3-88

Table INV-2. Existing Vegetation Types and Corresponding Vulnerability in the 

Analysis Area.................................................................................... 3-90

Table INV-3. Summary of Project Disturbance by Alternative ................................ 3-92

Table WET-1. Existing Roads and Past Harvest on Wetlands in the Analysis 

Area .................................................................................................. 3-97

Table WET-2. Estimated Impacts by Alternative, Type of Disturbance, and 

Wetland Type...................................................................................3-101

Table WET-3. Estimated Right-of-Way Clearing and Total Disturbance by 

Alternative and Wetland Type ..........................................................3-101

Table WILD-1. Existing Total, High-Volume, and Large-Tree POG by Elevation 

within VCUs Crossed by the KPI Route Corridors ............................3-110

Table WILD-2. Existing Old-Growth Reserves in the KPI Analysis Area ..................3-114

Table WILD-3. Existing POG (All Elevations) within the Analysis Area WAAs..........3-115

Table WILD-4. Existing Deep Snow Winter Habitat, Average Snow Winter 

Habitat, and Non-Winter Habitat by WAA (all landownerships 

included) ..........................................................................................3-116

Table WILD-5. Deer Winter Habitat Capability (NFS Lands Only)............................3-117

Table WILD-6. Existing Deer Winter Habitat Capability in terms of Deer Density 

by WAA (NFS Lands Only)...............................................................3-118

Table WILD-7. Existing Road Density below 1,200 Feet Elevation ..........................3-118

Table WILD-8. Original and Existing Deep Snow Marten Habitat.............................3-119

Table WILD-9. Existing Road Density including All Elevations .................................3-120

Table WILD-10. Existing Acres of Beach Fringe and Riparian Buffers in the 

Analysis Area...................................................................................3-121

Table WILD-11. Threatened, Endangered, Candidate, and Alaska Region 

Sensitive Species in the Analysis Area.............................................3-122

Table WILD-12. Impacts to Total, High-Volume, and Large-Tree POG by VCU.........3-127

Table WILD-13. Acres of POG Affected within Beach Fringe and Riparian Buffers....3-129

Table WILD-14. Old-Growth Reserves Consistency with Forest Plan Appendix K 

Criteria .............................................................................................3-132

Table WILD-15. Acres of POG Removed by Alternative ............................................3-133

Table WILD-16. Deer Habitat Capability by WAA by Alternative (NFS Lands Only)...3-135

Table WILD-17. Changes to Average Snow Winter Range, Deep Snow Winter 

Range, and Non-Winter Habitat for Deer by WAA by Alternative 

(NFS and Non-NFS Lands)..............................................................3-136

Table WILD-18. Cumulative Changes in Deer Habitat Capability by WAA by 

Alternative (NFS and Non-NFS Lands) ............................................3-137

Table WILD-19. Relative Changes in Modeled Deer Density by WAA and 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Table of Contents ▪ vii

Alternative (NFS Lands Only) .......................................................... 3-139

Table WILD-20. Cumulative Impacts to Deer Habitat Capability by WAA by 

Alternative (NFS and Non-NFS Lands)............................................ 3-140

Table WILD-21. Changes to Marten Deep Snow Winter Habitat by WAA by 

Alternative (NFS and Non-NFS Lands)............................................ 3-141

Table TRAN-1. NFS Roads on Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands .................................. 3-158

Table TRAN-2. NFS Road Systems on Kupreanof Island......................................... 3-158

Table TRAN-3. NFS Road Systems within the Transportation Analysis Area 

(miles).............................................................................................. 3-158

Table TRAN-4. Temporary Shovel Trails and Helicopter Placement ........................ 3-162

Table TRAN-5. NFS Roads Followed by Alternatives 2 and 3.................................. 3-163

Table TRAN-6. Existing Bridges That Would Be Used by Alternatives 2 and 3 ........ 3-164

Table TRAN-7. NFS Roads Followed by Alternative 4 ............................................. 3-167

Table TRAN-8. Existing Bridges That Would Be Used by Alternative 4 .................... 3-168

Table SCEN-1. Scenic Integrity Objectives (SIOs) in the Analysis Area ................... 3-177

Table SCEN-2. Existing Visual Conditions in the Analysis Area ............................... 3-180

Table SCEN-3. Project Disturbance by Scenic Attractiveness Class and 

Alternative ....................................................................................... 3-181

Table SCEN-4. Project Disturbance by Distance Zone and Alternative .................... 3-181

Table SCEN-5. Project Disturbance by Existing Visual Condition and Alternative .... 3-182

Table SCEN-6. Number of Structures Potentially Visible from VPRs with view of 

Alternatives 2 and 3......................................................................... 3-185

Table SCEN-7. Number of Structures Potentially Visible from VPRs with a view of 

Alternative 4 .................................................................................... 3-193

Table REC-1. ROS Designations within the Analysis Area..................................... 3-201

Table REC-2. Developed Recreation Sites in the Project Area .............................. 3-202

Table REC-3. Estimated Use of Forest Service Cabins in the Analysis Area, 

2008–2012 ...................................................................................... 3-205

Table REC-4. Outfitter/Guide Use in the Analysis Area, 2007–2013 ...................... 3-210

Table REC-5. General Outfitter/Guide Locations and Activities.............................. 3-210

Table REC-6. ROS Settings by Alternative ............................................................ 3-211

Table REC-7. Estimated Distance between Developed Recreation Sites and 

Alternatives 2 and 3 ......................................................................... 3-213

Table REC-8. Estimated Distance between Developed Recreation Sites and 

Alternative 4 .................................................................................... 3-217

Table IRA-1. Roadless Characteristics and Discussion Sections.......................... 3-220

Table IRA-2. Inventoried Roadless Areas Partially Located within the KPI 

Analysis Area................................................................................... 3-220

Table IRA-3. Estimated Disturbance by IRA and Alternative (acres)..................... 3-226

Table SOC-1. Population, 2000 and 2012.............................................................. 3-235

Table SOC-2. Race and Ethnicity 2010.................................................................. 3-238

Table SOC-3. Annual Employment and Earnings in the Petersburg CA, 2011 ....... 3-238

Table SOC-4. Employment by Industry and Community, 2011............................... 3-239

Table SOC-5. Electric Rates in Southeast Alaska Communities, 2011................... 3-245

Table SOC-6. Projected Production Cost Savings with KPI in Operation, 2016 to 

2020 ................................................................................................ 3-251

Table NPHS-1. Common Noise Sources and Sound Levels..................................... 3-260

Table NPHS-2. Noise Levels Produced by Typical Construction Equipment ............ 3-261

Table NPHS-3. Construction Noise in the Vicinity of a Construction Site.................. 3-264
Table of Contents

viii ▪ Table of Contents Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

List of Figures 

Figure S-1. Alternatives 2 and 3 ............................................................................ S-6

Figure S-2. Alternative 4........................................................................................ S-7

Figure 1-1. Vicinity Map ........................................................................................ 1-3

Figure 1-2. Project Area ........................................................................................ 1-4

Figure 1-3. Inventoried Roadless Areas ............................................................... 1-5

Figure 1-4. Land Use Designations ..................................................................... 1-10

Figure 2-1. Alternatives 2 and 3 ............................................................................ 2-3

Figure 2-2. Alternatives 2 and 3 Proposed Marine Crossing.................................. 2-4

Figure 2-3. Alternative 4........................................................................................ 2-7

Figure 2-4. Typical Tangent Pole Structure ........................................................... 2-9

Figure 2-5. Typical Angle Structure..................................................................... 2-11

Figure 2-6. Typical Deadend Structure................................................................ 2-12

Figure 2-7. Typical Clearing Along NFS Roads ................................................... 2-16

Figure 2-8. Temporary Matting Panels ................................................................ 2-18

Figure 2-9. Representative Submarine Cable Design.......................................... 2-22

Figure 2-10. Typical Submarine Cable Termination Facility................................... 2-24

Figure 2-11. Construction Equipment for Use in Unroaded Areas ......................... 2-26

Figure SOIL-1. Karst Rock Locations ........................................................................ 3-11

Figure WAT-1. Subwatershed Boundaries ................................................................ 3-22

Figure WAT-2. Falls Creek Hydrograph Depicting Mean Monthly Flow..................... 3-25

Figure WAT-3. Streamflow Characteristics of Hamilton Creek .................................. 3-25

Figure TBR-1. Forest Land Classifications in the VCUs Crossed by the Proposed 

Alternatives ....................................................................................... 3-64

Figure BOT-1. Location of Rare Plants..................................................................... 3-77

Figure TRAN-1.National Forest Road System ..........................................................3-157

Figure SCEN-1.Viewpoints .......................................................................................3-176

Figure SCEN-2.Existing Visual Conditions................................................................3-179

Figure REC-1. Recreation Opportunity Spectrum Settings within the Analysis 

Area .................................................................................................3-199

Figure REC-2. Recreation Sites within the Analysis Area ........................................3-203

3-203

Figure SOC-1. Kake Population 1920 to 2012 .........................................................3-236

Figure SOC-2. Projected Percent Change in Population, 2010–2035 ......................3-237

Figure SOC-3. Annual Energy Sales in Kake by Customer Class (kWh)..................3-246

Figure NPHS-1.Estimated Magnetic Field Strength for the KPI Project.....................3-265
Chapter 1

PURPOSE AND NEED
CHAPTER 1 – PURPOSE AND NEED

Introduction

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Forest Service (Forest Service) proposes to authorize the 

construction, operation, and maintenance of the proposed Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie 

(KPI) Project across National Forest System (NFS) lands. A special use authorization would be issued to 

allow this use. The KPI Project consists of an electric transmission line that would extend from 

Petersburg on Mitkof Island to Kake on Kupreanof Island. The proposed transmission line would be built 

to transmit power at either 69 or 138 kilovolts (kV) and would consist of single wood-pole structures. 

The proposed project would include a 24-strand fiber optic communication cable. Construction access 

would be via existing roads, temporary shovel trails, temporary access spurs, and helicopter. The 

Proposed Action and action alternatives for the proposed project would all cross NFS lands on the 

Petersburg Ranger District of the Tongass National Forest. 

The Forest Service has prepared this Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to address the potential 

effects of permitting this request in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and 

other relevant Federal and State laws and regulations. This Draft EIS identifies the purpose and need for 

the proposed project and discloses the direct, indirect, and cumulative environmental impacts, as well as

any irreversible or irretrievable commitment of resources that would result from the Proposed Action

and/or alternatives.

This Draft EIS is prepared according to the format established by the White House’s Council on 

Environmental Quality (CEQ) regulations implementing NEPA (40 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR]

1500-1508). The Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) assembled for this proposed project used a systematic 

approach to analyze the environmental effects within the proposed project area using the best available 

science and on-the-ground surveys and observations. 

Project Applicant

SEAPA, the project applicant, is a joint action agency organized and existing pursuant to the laws of the 

State of Alaska. SEAPA’s member utilities (Ketchikan, Wrangell, and Petersburg) provide electric utility 

services to their respective service areas utilizing power generated by SEAPA’s facilities and purchased 

from SEAPA under a Power Sales Agreement. These three communities—Ketchikan, Wrangell, and 

Petersburg—are part of SEAPA’s interconnected network, which includes the Swan Lake and Lake Tyee 

hydroelectric projects and approximately 175 miles of transmission line that span from Ketchikan to 

Petersburg. 

Project Area

The proposed intertie transmission line has been discussed for many years and has been the subject of a 

number of studies dating back to the 1970s. Over the years at least a dozen alternatives have been 

discussed and evaluated. The most recent of these studies identified two primary route corridors, a 

northern route generally located on the north end of Kupreanof Island (the “Northern” route), and a 

southern route that crosses the Wrangell Narrows near the Tonka log transfer facility and proceeds west 

across Duncan Canal (the “Center-South” route). These routes are both identified as “Potential Power 

Transmission Corridors” on the Forest Plan Land Use Designation (LUD) map (USDA Forest Service 

2008a). 

The Proposed Action and action alternatives would follow one or the other of these Potential Power 

Transmission Corridors. The action alternatives (including the Proposed Action [Alternative 2]) are 

shown on Figure 1-1. The project area comprises the Value Comparison Units (VCUs) crossed by the 

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need ▪ 1-1
1 Purpose and Need

Proposed Action and action alternatives, as well as the VCUs located between the two corridors. First 

developed for the 1979 Tongass Forest Plan, VCUs are distinct geographic areas that generally 

encompass a drainage basin containing one or more large stream systems. VCU boundaries typically 

follow easily recognizable watershed divides and provide a common set of areas used on the Tongass for 

resource inventory and analysis. The project area consists of a total of 18 VCUs (Figure 1-2).

The project area encompasses approximately 493,806 acres on Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands, with the 

majority of the area located on Kupreanof Island (Figure 1-2). This total consists of 453,980 acres of 

NFS lands, with the remaining lands (39,826 acres) owned and managed by the Alaska Department of 

Natural Resources (Alaska DNR), the Sealaska Corporation, Kake Tribal Corporation, the city of Kake, 

and Petersburg Borough. Non-NFS lands are identified in Figure 1-1. The term project area is used to 

refer to this area throughout the EIS. This area is synonymous with the analysis area for some resources. 

For other resources, a reduced or expanded boundary is used to assess impacts. The analysis area for each 

resource is described at the beginning of each resource-specific section in Chapter 3 of this EIS.

The Tongass National Forest, including Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands, is primarily covered by temperate 

rainforest consisting of Sitka spruce and western hemlock, with lesser amounts of mountain hemlock, 

Alaska yellow-cedar, and lodgepole pine. Red alder occupies riparian areas and other sites where bare 

mineral soils are exposed. The majority of the project area is occupied by old-growth forests and 

harvested timber areas, intermixed with muskeg, riparian plant communities, and beach habitat that are 

largely unaltered. Regeneration is rapid and most of the logged areas are covered by dense stands of 

young-growth. Topography in the project area ranges from low, flat marshes to hills and mountains 

ranging from 1,000 feet to 3,363 feet (Portage Mountain) above mean sea level (msl). 

Frederick Sound borders Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands to the east and Kupreanof Island to the north 

(Figure 1-1). The Wrangell Narrows separate Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands. Duncan Canal to the south 

and Portage Bay to the north partially separate the Lindenberg Peninsula from the rest of Kupreanof 

Island. Keku Strait borders Kupreanof Island to the west.

The two route corridors cross parts of four Inventoried Roadless Areas (IRAs) (Figure 1-3). IRAs are 

undeveloped areas typically exceeding 5,000 acres that meet the minimum criteria for Wilderness 

Consideration under the Wilderness Act. The Northern route corridor crosses three IRAs: North 

Kupreanof (# 211), Missionary (# 212), and Five Mile (# 213). The Center-South route corridor crosses 

one IRA: South Kupreanof (# 214). IRAs are discussed in detail in Chapter 3 of this EIS in the 

Inventoried Roadless Areas and Wilderness section.

1-2 ▪ Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
Purpose and Need 1

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need ▪ 1-3 

Figure 1-1. Vicinity Map 
1 Purpose and Need 

1-4 ▪ Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS 

Figure 1-2. Project Area 

 
Purpose and Need 1

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need ▪ 1-5 

Figure 1-3. Inventoried Roadless Areas 

 
1 Purpose and Need

Document Structure

This EIS document is organized as follows: 

Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need: This chapter explains the purpose and need for the Proposed Action, 

discusses how the proposed project relates to the Tongass Land and Resource Management Plan (Forest 

Plan) (USDA Forest Service 2008a), describes the decision to be made, identifies the official responsible 

for making the decision, summarizes the public involvement conducted in support of the proposed 

project, and identifies the issues driving the environmental analysis. 

Chapter 2 – Alternatives: This chapter describes the Proposed Action and alternatives evaluated in this 

EIS, discusses the alternatives considered but eliminated from detailed study, and provides a detailed 

summary comparison of the potential impacts of each alternative (including the Proposed Action).

Chapter 3 – Environment and Effects: This chapter discloses the potential environmental effects that 

would result from implementation of the Proposed Action and alternatives. 

Chapter 4 – References and Lists: This chapter contains the list of preparers, the Draft EIS distribution 

list, references, glossary, and index. 

Additional documentation may be found in the project record located at the Petersburg Ranger District in 

Petersburg, Alaska.

Purpose and Need

Background

The community of Kake is presently served by an isolated electric system that depends upon high-cost, 

diesel generation. This isolated system is served by a diesel plant that consists of three diesel generators 

originally installed in 1984 (1 unit) and 1993 (2 units). High operation and maintenance (O&M) expenses 

and high fuel costs make diesel generators costly to operate. In 2011, the full retail cost of power in Kake 

was 62 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh)1

, more than five times the rate in the communities of Petersburg, 

Ketchikan, and Wrangell (Fay et al. 2012). The cost of electricity in Kake is currently subsidized for 

residential customers and public facilities through the State of Alaska’s Power Cost Equalization (PCE) 

program, which is funded on an annual basis by the State legislature. Commercial customers are not 

eligible to participate in the PCE program and there is no comparable program for commercial customers, 

who pay the full retail cost for power in Kake. The high cost of electricity is not conducive to economic 

growth and may in fact impede economic development in Kake because the availability of reliable lowcost power strongly influences decisions to locate new commercial and industrial developments in 

Southeast Alaska (Alexander et al. 2010, Black & Veatch 2012, Hittle 2014). The proposed KPI Project 

would connect Kake to SEAPA’s interconnected network and provide access to relatively low cost electricity. 

Forest Service Purpose and Need

The Forest Service proposes to authorize the construction, operation, and maintenance of the proposed KPI 

Project across NFS lands. A special use authorization would be issued to allow this use. The need for 

this action is established by the Forest Service’s responsibility under the Federal Land Policy and 

Management Act (FLPMA) to respond to an application for a right-of-way (43 U.S.C 1701). Title 36 

1 A kWh is a unit of energy equivalent to 1 kilowatt (kW) expended for one hour of time. A heater or air conditioner 

rated at 1,000 watts (1 kilowatt) operated for 1 hour will, for example, consume 1 kWh. Similarly, a 100 watt light 

bulb left on for 1 hour will consume 0.1 kWh. 

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CFR Part 251, Subpart B provides authority for reviewing and granting special use authorizations for 

transmission lines. Further direction is provided in Forest Service Manual 2700. The Forest Service must 

also consider the Forest Plan in the decision to issue a special use authorization for the KPI Project.

Proposed Action

The Proposed Action (the project proposed by the applicant) is to construct, operate, and maintain a new 

electric transmission line and associated facilities that would connect the city of Kake with the existing 

SEAPA interconnected network in Petersburg, Alaska. The proposed transmission line would be 

approximately 60 miles long. Built to transmit power at either 69 or 138 kV, the proposed line would 

consist of single wood-pole structures with horizontal post insulators. Average span lengths between pole 

structures would be 350 to 400 feet. The proposed project would also include a 24-strand fiber optic 

communication cable. The Proposed Action follows the Northern route corridor across Kupreanof Island. 

This route was identified as a Potential Power Transmission Corridor in the 2008 Forest Plan (as 

described below) (see Figure 1-4). 

The proposed transmission line would originate at the existing SEAPA substation south of Petersburg and 

extend north, then northeast toward Frederick Sound. The line would continue northwest along Sandy 

Beach Road to Outlook Park. From Outlook Park, the transmission line would cross Frederick Sound and 

the mouth of the Wrangell Narrows via a horizontal directional bore that would place the cable under the 

floor of the Sound and Narrows. The horizontal directional bore would extend approximately 1.2 miles, 

coming ashore on Kupreanof Island, near Prolewy Point. From this point, the transmission line would

follow the identified Potential Power Transmission Corridor north along Frederick Sound, and then west 

to Kake where it would terminate at a new substation located near the existing powerhouse. Existing 

Inside Passage Electric Cooperative’s (IPEC) distribution lines would be used to deliver power from the 

new substation to residential and commercial electric users in Kake.

An estimated 61 percent, or 35.2 miles, of the overhead portion of the proposed transmission line would 

follow existing roads. Construction access in areas where there are no existing roads would be via shovel 

trails supported by temporary matting panels in some wetland areas. Helicopters would be used to 

support construction, especially in areas without roads. Following construction, routine annual 

inspections would be conducted via helicopter and existing access roads, where possible. Helipad 

structures would be installed for use in unroaded sections. 

The majority of the Proposed Action (51.6 miles) would cross NFS lands. The proposed transmission 

line would also cross lands owned and managed by the Alaska DNR, Sealaska Corporation, Kake Tribal 

Corporation, the City of Kake, and Petersburg Borough (see Figure 1-1). Detailed maps of the Proposed 

Action are presented in Chapter 2, which describes the Proposed Action and action alternatives in detail.

Decision Framework

Based on the environmental analysis in this EIS and in accordance with the Forest Plan and applicable 

laws, regulations, and policies, the Forest Supervisor of the Tongass National Forest will decide whether 

to authorize the construction, operation, and maintenance of the proposed KPI Project across NFS lands. 

The Forest Supervisor may decide to:

• Select one of the alternatives analyzed in the EIS, including the no action alternative.

• Modify and then select one of the alternatives.

The decision will include, but is not limited to, the following items:

• The route for the proposed transmission line and fiber optic communication cable.

• Any necessary project-specific mitigation measures and monitoring requirements.

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Relationship to the Kake Access Project

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (ADOT&PF) identified the need for more 

efficient access to and from Kake in its 2004 Southeast Alaska Transportation Plan and subsequent 

updates. Access is currently limited to twice-weekly mainline ferry service, scheduled air taxi service to 

Juneau and Sitka, and chartered aircraft service to Petersburg. The nearest larger community is 

Petersburg, 38 flying miles away. The Western Federal Lands Highway Division of the Federal Highway 

Administration (FHWA) and ADOT&PF initiated the Kake Access Project EIS with a Notice of Intent 

(NOI) published in the Federal Register on January 22, 2013 (Volume 78, Number 14). The EIS will 

evaluate alternatives that provide additional public access to Kake via a new road or enhanced ferry 

service. Additional public access would improve regional connectivity in Southeast Alaska and provide

Kake residents with more efficient access to services in larger communities.

The NOI for the Kake Access Project identified five preliminary alternatives that are being evaluated as 

part of the EIS process:

1. The Northern Corridor alternative

2. The “Intertie Corridor” alternative

3. The Southern Corridor alternative to Kah Sheets Bay

4. The Southern Corridor alternative to Totem Bay 

5. The Kake Ferry Service Improvement alternative

There are some commonalities between the KPI Project and the Kake Access Project, with both projects 

evaluating the potential use of the Northern Route and Center-South Route Potential Power Transmission 

Corridors identified in the 2008 Forest Plan.2

 However, the underlying purpose for each project is 

different. In addition, while the projects are both considering the use of the Northern Route and CenterSouth Route corridors, the Kake Access Project is also evaluating other road alternatives (Alternatives 3 

and 4, above) and an alternative that would improve ferry service only (Alternative 5). The best solution 

for each project may not involve action taken at the same time or in the same place. As a result, these 

projects are being pursued independently. The Draft EIS for the Kake Access Project is currently 

expected to be published sometime in 2015.

Relationship to the Forest Plan

Based on an extensive forest-level analysis, the Forest Plan provides land and resource management 

direction for the Tongass National Forest. The KPI Project is designed to be consistent with the standards 

and guidelines and LUDs identified in the Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service 2008a). The KPI Project 

Draft EIS is a project-level analysis and its scope is confined to addressing the significant issues and 

possible environmental effects of the proposed project. 

Land Use Designations

The Forest Plan uses LUDs to guide the management of NFS lands on the Tongass National Forest. Each 

designation provides for a unique combination of activities, practices, and uses. 

2 The entire Northern Route corridor is also identified in the 2008 Forest Plan as a State Road Corridor, with part 

identified as an Existing State Road Corridor and the remainder labeled as a Proposed State Road Corridor. Much 

of the Center-South Route corridor is identified as an Existing State Road Corridor. 

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The Proposed Action and action alternatives would follow one of two routes identified as Potential Power 

Transmission Corridors on the LUD map that accompanied the Record of Decision (ROD) for the Forest 

Plan (USDA Forest Service 2008b). Potential Power Transmission Corridor is one of four subcategories 

that comprise the Transportation and Utility System (TUS) LUD. The goal of the TUS LUD is to 

“provide for, and/or facilitate the development of, existing and future major public Transportation and 

Utility Systems, including those identified by the State of Alaska and the Alaska Energy Authority.” The 

Forest Plan also states that prior to construction of the new systems, in this case the proposed KPI Project, 

the management prescriptions of the underlying LUDs remain applicable (USDA Forest Service 2008a, p. 

3-128). The LUDs within the project area are identified in Table 1-1 and Figure 1-4. These totals 

represent existing conditions and, therefore, include the LUDs that underlie the two Potential Power 

Transmission Corridors.

More than half of the project area (60 percent of the NFS lands) is allocated to development LUDs: 

Timber Production, Modified Landscape, and Scenic Viewshed, with almost half of the total allocated to 

Timber Production (Table 1-1, Figure 1-4). The remaining lands within the project area (40 percent of 

the NFS lands) are allocated to non-development LUDs: Old-Growth Habitat, Semi-Remote Recreation, 

Municipal Watershed, Special Interest Area, Wilderness, and Wild River (Table 1-1, Figure 1-4). The 

following paragraphs provide summary information for each of the LUDs in the project area.

Table 1-1. Land Use Designations in the Project Area

LUD Project Area Acres

Percent of Project 

Area Total

Percent of NFS 

Lands in the Project 

Area

Development LUDs1/

Timber Production 199,221 40 44

Modified Landscape 55,378 11 12

Scenic Viewshed 18,703 4 4

Subtotal 273,302 55 60

Non-Development LUDs2/

Old-Growth Habitat 72,590 15 16

Semi-Remote Recreation 58,825 12 13

Municipal Watershed 2,668 1 1

Special Interest Area 85 0 0

Wilderness 44,102 9 10

Wild River 2,408 0 1

Subtotal 180,678 37 40

TOTAL NFS 453,980 92 100

Non-National Forest 39,826 8 na

Total All Lands 493,806 100 na

Notes:

na = not applicable; totals may not sum due to rounding.

1/ Development LUDs allow timber harvest and related road construction under certain conditions.

2/ Non-development LUDs emphasize maintaining the natural setting and undeveloped character of the area and 

generally do not allow timber harvest, but roads linking transportation systems, particularly major state corridors 

may occur.

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Figure 1-4. Land Use Designations

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Timber Production: The goal of this LUD is to maintain and promote wood production from suitable 

forest lands (Forest Plan, page 3-116). 

Modified Landscape: The goal of this LUD is to provide a sustained yield of timber and a mix of 

resource activities while minimizing the visibility of developments in the foreground distance zone 

(Forest Plan, page 3-109). 

Scenic Viewshed: The goal of this LUD is to provide a sustained yield of timber and mix of resource 

activities while minimizing the visibility of developments as seen from visual priority routes and use 

areas (VPRs) (Forest Plan, page 3-101). 

Old-Growth Habitat: The goal of this LUD is to maintain areas of old-growth forest and their natural 

ecological processes to provide habitat for old-growth associated resources (Forest Plan, page 3-57). 

Semi-Remote Recreation: The goal of this LUD is to provide predominantly natural or natural-appearing 

settings for semi-primitive types of recreation and tourism, with occasional spots for concentrated 

facilities (Forest Plan, page 3-63). 

Municipal Watershed: The goal of this LUD is to provide protection of municipal water supplies for 

incorporated cities and boroughs (Forest Plan, page 3-51). 

Special Interest Area: The goal of this LUD is to provide for the protection of the existing characteristics 

and attributes of areas with unique cultural, geological, botanical, zoological, recreational, scenic, or other 

special features (Forest Plan, page 3-40). 

Wilderness: The goal of this LUD is to maintain the enduring resource of Wilderness as directed by the 

Wilderness Act of 1964, subject to the special provisions and exceptions in the Alaska National Interest 

Lands Conservation Act of 1980 (ANILCA) and the Tongass Timber Reform Act of 1990 (Forest Plan, 

page 3-7). None of the proposed alternatives would cross Wilderness (see Figure 1-3).

Wild River: The goal of this LUD is to maintain, enhance, and protect the free-flowing character and 

remarkable values of rivers and river segments designated as Wild Rivers and included in the National 

Wild and Scenic Rivers system (Forest Plan, page 3-74). None of the proposed alternatives would cross 

lands allocated to this LUD (see Figure 1-3).

Public Involvement

Public involvement is a key component of the NEPA process. The following paragraphs describe the 

public involvement activities that have occurred to date for the KPI Project.

Scoping

The CEQ defines scoping as “an early and open process for determining the scope of issues to be 

addressed and for identifying the significant issues related to a Proposed Action” (40 CFR 1501.7). 

Among other things, the scoping process is used to invite public participation, obtain public comment, 

and help identify issues. Scoping begins early and is a process that continues until a decision is made. 

The following is a summary of the contacts and meetings that have taken place for this proposed project

to date: 

• April 1, 2010: KPI Project first listed on the Schedule of Proposed Actions (SOPA) for the 

Petersburg Ranger District.

• April 29/30, 2010: A scoping brochure describing the purpose and need, project background, 

Proposed Action, preliminary issues, NEPA schedule, and the location and timing of scoping 

meetings was mailed to approximately 200 individuals, groups, and agencies. The 88 responses 

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to this mailing, plus comments received during the scoping meetings, identified a range of issues 

and concerns.

• April 29/30, 2010: Public notices seeking comment on the proposed project and describing the 

project, NEPA schedule, and the location and timing of scoping meetings were published in the 

Petersburg Pilot (April 29) and Ketchikan Daily News (April 30).

• May 7, 2010: A NOI to prepare an EIS for the KPI Project was published in the Federal Register 

(Volume 75, Number 88).

• May 12, 2010 and May 13, 2010: Open house scoping meetings were held in Kake and 

Petersburg.

• July 28, 2014: A corrected NOI to prepare an EIS for the KPI Project was published in the 

Federal Register (Volume 79, Number 144).

The Forest Service has continued to engage with the public and other interested parties regarding this 

project since the initial formal scoping activities described above were initiated.

Consultation with Federally Recognized Tribal Governments and 

Tribal Corporations 

The following federally recognized tribal governments and organizations have been consulted about this 

proposed project: 

• Organized Village of Kake

• Petersburg Indian Association

The Forest Service also corresponded with the additional tribal groups that have the potential to be 

culturally affiliated with the project area. These groups include the Wrangell Cooperative Association, 

Sealaska Corporation, Sealaska Heritage, and the Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes 

of Alaska (CCHITA). Tribal governments and organizations did not express any concerns about the KPI 

Project during initial consultation and discussions. Regular consultation will continue during the 

planning of this proposed project and beyond. 

Other Agency Involvement 

The Forest Service is committed to working closely with other agencies at all stages of planning and is 

responsible for coordinating project reviews by several other agencies. In some cases, the reviews are 

required because another agency has the authority to issue permits for a specific activity proposed by the 

Forest Service. In other cases, the reviews provide a time for dialogue with agencies responsible for 

ensuring that certain environmental conditions are met, such as clean water or healthy wildlife 

populations. This interagency communication helps provide information about area resources, used to 

meet laws and regulations, and to identify ways to avoid or mitigate environmental effects. Other 

agencies with jurisdiction over aspects of the KPI Project are identified in the following paragraphs.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a general review in accordance with their 

responsibilities under NEPA, Section 309 of the Clean Air Act, and Section 402 of the Clean Water Act. 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) is responsible for approving proposals to dredge or place fill 

materials in the coastal waters of the United States under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. The Corps 

also has administrative authority over activities associated with wetlands. 

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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) administers the Endangered Species Act. The Forest 

Service has ongoing consultation with the USFWS to determine if proposed activities will affect 

threatened or endangered species. In addition, if required, a permit for non-purposeful take of eagles

would be applied for; this process is managed by USFWS.

National Marine Fisheries Service 

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) has jurisdiction over most threatened or endangered 

marine life and all anadromous salmon listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The Forest 

Service consults with NMFS concerning possible effects to these species. Under the Magnuson-Stevens 

Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the Forest Service is also required to consult with NMFS 

when an action “may adversely affect” essential fish habitat (EFH) for federally managed marine and 

anadromous fish species. 

State of Alaska 

The State of Alaska was involved in the development of the Forest Plan and entered into a Memorandum 

of Understanding (MOU) with the Tongass National Forest in March 2009, to promote cooperation 

between the Tongass and the State in implementing the Forest Plan and related environmental analyses 

and work associated with managing the land and resources of the Tongass. Several departments in the 

State of Alaska are expected to participate in review of the KPI Project. These departments include the 

following: 

Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation 

The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (ADEC) participates in cooperative water quality 

management through Section 319 of the Clean Water Act and a Memorandum of Agreement with the 

Forest Service. 

Alaska Department of Fish and Game 

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) and the Forest Service have an MOU to reach 

concurrence prior to conducting any instream activities. Concurrence with the state’s Title 16 authority 

for fish habitat and special area permitting must be reached before any work occurs below the ordinary 

high water for fish-bearing water bodies that will use, divert, obstruct, pollute, or change the natural flow 

or bed of water bodies. The MOU between ADF&G and the Forest Service allows cooperation on 

projects of mutual interest on the Tongass National Forest, which may include large-scale vegetation 

management, fish or wildlife habitat restoration/enhancement/management, and fish or wildlife 

research/monitoring. The applicant would be responsible for obtaining Fish Habitat Permits for all stream 

crossings requiring instream work and would consult as necessary to determine whether stream crossings 

may require a permit. Specific mitigation measures to ensure compliance would be outlined in a Stream 

Protection Plan.

Alaska Department of Natural Resources 

The Alaska DNR, Division of Mining, Land, and Water issues tideland permits and the lease or easement 

necessary for the use of log transfer facilities (LTFs), as necessary.

Office of Project Management and Permitting 

The Office of Project Management and Permitting office provides overall coordination for the State’s 

comments for large projects. 

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Alaska Office of History and Archaeology 

Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) requires that federal agencies consider the 

effects of their actions on historic properties eligible to the National Register of Historic Places, following 

regulations issued by the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP; 36 CFR 800). The Section 

106 review process seeks to consider historic preservation concerns with the needs of federal actions. 

Review occurs through consultation with Alaska State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO), the ACHP, 

Indian Tribes, and other parties with an interest in the effects of the undertaking on historic properties. 

The Forest Service determined there are historic properties eligible to the National Register of Historic 

Places within the project area (See Cultural Resources section in Chapter 3).

Issues

The Forest Service received 88 unique written comment letters during public scoping for this proposed 

project. These letters combined included more than 280 individual comments. Members of the project 

team reviewed and conducted content analysis for each comment letter received and used an issue 

identification process to analyze the individual comments. This process was used to ensure that all key or 

significant issues were identified, and that all other issues were meaningfully addressed in the analysis. 

Comments were received from individuals, organizations, state agencies, and other Federal agencies. 

Evaluation Categories

Each of the comments received during scoping was considered a potential issue, and was evaluated to 

determine in which of the following ways the comment was resolved or addressed: 

• Already addressed by the Forest Plan and Forest Plan LUDs

• Addressed through implementation of standards and guidelines or best management practices 

(BMPs)

• Can be resolved through project-specific mitigation 

• Can be addressed during processes or impact analyses routinely conducted by the IDT 

• Can be addressed through spatial modification of actions during alternative design 

• Used to drive or partially drive an alternative 

• Beyond the scope of the project

• Comment or opinion

• Other request

Significant Issues

NEPA documents must concentrate on the issues that are truly significant to the action in question, rather 

than amassing needless detail (40 CFR 1500.1(b)). Three potentially significant issues were identified 

through public scoping and Forest Service review of the proposed alternatives. These issues were 

considered potentially significant because they had the potential to drive an alternative. These issues may 

be summarized as follows:

• Inventoried Roadless Areas – All of the action alternatives cross IRAs (Figure 1-3). Road 

construction in IRAs, if it were to occur, would reduce roadless acres within the project area and 

could affect roadless values. 

• Unroaded Character of the City of Kupreanof – Residents of the city of Kupreanof expressed 

concern that development of an electric transmission line would affect the unroaded character of 

their community and have impacts on the quality of life of residents. 

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Public scoping for this proposed project identified two alternative routes: the Center-South and 

Northern Alternatives, with two options (Options 1 and 2) identified for the Northern Alternative. 

The Northern Alternative, Option 2 crossed Petersburg Creek and passed behind the city of 

Kupreanof. Many of the comments received from the public during scoping for the project were 

from Kupreanof residents concerned about the potential impact of the Northern Alternative, 

Option 2 on their community, as well as potential impacts to Petersburg Creek.3

 

• Petersburg Creek – As noted above, concern was expressed about potential impacts to Petersburg 

Creek, an important resource for fish and wildlife, recreation and tourism, and subsistence. 

Although potentially significant, these issues were addressed through the alternative development process 

for this project and are, therefore, no longer considered potentially significant issues. The following 

paragraphs summarize how each of these issues was addressed.

• Inventoried Roadless Areas – The alternatives as initially proposed all included construction of a 

pioneer road along those sections of the proposed transmission line that do not follow existing 

roads, including locations within IRAs. The alternatives were modified during the alternative 

development process and pioneer roads are no longer proposed. Construction access in unroaded 

areas, including IRAs, would be via temporary shovel trails and temporary matting panels, with 

helicopters used to support these activities. As a result, IRAs are no longer considered a key or 

significant issue.

• Unroaded Character of the City of Kupreanof – The Northern Alternative, Option 2 has been 

eliminated from further consideration, as discussed in Chapter 2. None of the action alternatives 

considered in this EIS pass behind or near the city of Kupreanof. As a result, the unroaded 

character of the city of Kupreanof is no longer considered a key or significant issue.

• Petersburg Creek – As noted above, the Northern Alternative, Option 2 has been eliminated from 

further consideration. None of the action alternatives considered in this EIS cross Petersburg 

Creek. As a result, Petersburg Creek is no longer considered a key or significant issue.

Summary of Public Concerns

No other potentially significant issues were identified. More general concerns were expressed during 

public scoping about potential impacts to other resources, but these concerns were resolved or addressed 

through one or more of the evaluation categories identified above. Potential concerns are already 

addressed by the Forest Plan or would be addressed through implementation of Standards and Guidelines,

BMPs, or project-specific mitigation, or would be addressed during processes or impact analyses 

routinely conducted by the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT). The following paragraphs summarize the 

identified concerns by resource:

• Aquatic Resources – The proposed project could affect steelhead and salmon streams, including 

Mitchell Creek, Five Mile Creek, Twelve Mile Creek, Portage Creek, and others. The proposed 

project could also affect fish passage, resident fish-bearing streams, fish habitat, water quality, 

and marine species.

• Botany/Vegetation – The proposed project could affect old-growth habitat. The project could 

spread non-native species.

3 Note: The Northern Alternative, Option 1 is Alternative 3 in this EIS; the Center-South Alternative is Alternative 

4. The Northern Alternative, Option 2 was eliminated from detailed consideration. This is discussed in more detail 

in the Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Study section in Chapter 2.

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• Wildlife and Subsistence – The proposed project could affect wildlife and wildlife habitat. 

Concerns were expressed about potential impacts to the beach fringe along Frederick Sound, 

including deer winter range, old-growth habitat, habitat fragmentation, and waterfowl flyways. 

Black bear, moose, Sitka deer, wolf, marten, bald eagles, goshawks, and owls were identified as 

species of concern. The proposed project could affect subsistence by increasing access (offhighway vehicle [OHV]/vehicle use) and negatively affecting habitat.

• Scenery – The presence of an electric transmission line could negatively affect scenic resources. 

Most comments on this issue were concerned about impacts to the city of Kupreanof and 

Petersburg Creek.

• Recreation and Tourism – The proposed project could affect recreation and tourism. The 

presence of an electric transmission line could affect the remote recreation character of the area. 

Dispersed recreation sites along the beaches of Frederick Sound, bear viewing and hunting at 

Portage Bay, and kayaking and boating in Portage Bay and Duncan Canal were identified as 

locations of concern. Concern was also expressed about potential impacts to recreation and 

tourism-related floatplane landing approaches and takeoff patterns. Comments also expressed 

general concern about potential impacts to fishing, hunting and trapping, bird and wildlife 

viewing, kayaking, and tourism.

• Inventoried Roadless Areas – The presence of an electric transmission line could affect the 

roadless character of the IRAs crossed by the proposed project.

• Cultural Resources – The proposed project could affect cultural resources. Identified areas of 

potential concern included a known fish trap, Tlingit portage trail, and reported fish traps and 

camps. 

• Social and Economic Environment – The proposed project would benefit the city of Kake by 

providing a relatively low cost and reliable source of power to city residents, public facilities and 

services, local businesses, and future development. The proposed project could affect 

outfitter/guide businesses and tourism, as well as commercial and recreational fisheries. Concern 

was also expressed about the estimated cost of building and maintaining the transmission line, 

especially during winter. 

• Air, Noise, Public Health and Safety – The proposed project could result in electromagnetic field 

–related impacts to human health and other resources. The presence of an electric transmission 

line could create safety issues for aircraft following bush plane paths along Portage Inlet and 

Duncan Canal. The project could result in impacts to air quality, including emissions and dust 

from vehicles and equipment.

These concerns and other potential impacts are addressed by resource in Chapter 3 of this EIS. In 

addition to the above, impacts are also evaluated for the following resources:

• Soils and Geology

• Marine Environment

• Timber

• Invasive Plants

• Wetlands

• Transportation

• Air Quality and Climate Change

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Federal and State Permits, Licenses and Certificates

Prior to implementation of the proposed project, various permits are or may be required from other

Federal and State agencies. Administrative actions on these permits would be initiated after the EIS is 

filed with the EPA. The agencies and their responsibilities are listed below:

• Forest Service

- Special use permit to construct, operate, and maintain the proposed transmission line across 

NFS lands.

- Temporary special use permits for use of roads and LTF/Marine Access Facilities during 

project construction, operation, and maintenance.

• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

- Approval of discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the United States (Section 

404 of the Clean Water Act of 1977, as amended).

- Approval of construction or work in navigable waters of the United States, which includes 

Wrangell Narrows and Duncan Canal, depending on the selected alternative (Section 10 of 

the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899)

• USFWS

- Federal Fish and Wildlife Permit- for non-purposeful take of eagles.

• EPA

- Stormwater discharge permit

• U.S. Coast Guard

- Coordination to ensure appropriate clearance for lines over water; generally handled through 

the Corps permitting authority.

• Federal Aviation Administration

- Notice of proposed construction.

• Alaska DNR

- Authorization for occupancy and use of tidelands and submerged lands

- Right-of-way to construct the proposed transmission line

- ANILCA 906(k) concurrence

• ADEC

- Certificate of Reasonable Assurance.

- Certification of compliance with Alaska Water Quality Standards (Section 401 Certification)

- Solid Waste Disposal Permit (Section 402 of the Clean Water Act)

• ADF&G

- Habitat protection permits addressing conditions and timing of stream crossings and 

maintenance of vegetation.

- Title 16 fish habitat permit for any disturbance of anadromous fish streams. A Fish Habitat 

Permit is required before any action is taken to:

o construct a hydraulic project; or 

o use, divert, obstruct, pollute, or change the natural flow or bed of a specified river, lake, 

or stream; or 

o use wheeled, tracked, or excavating equipment or log-dragging equipment in the bed of a 

specified river, lake, or stream.

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Applicable Laws and Executive Orders

Shown below is a partial list of Federal laws and executive orders pertaining to project-specific planning 

and environmental analysis on Federal lands. While most pertain to all Federal lands, some of the laws 

are specific to Alaska.

• Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971

• American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978

• Archeological Resource Protection Act of 1980

• Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act of 1940 (as amended)

• Cave Resource Protection Act of 1988

• Clean Air Act of 1970 (as amended)

• Clean Water Act of 1977 (as amended)

• Endangered Species Act of 1973 (as amended)

• Executive Order 11593 (cultural resources)

• Executive Order 11988 (floodplains)

• Executive Order 11990 (wetlands)

• Executive Order 12898 (environmental justice)

• Executive Order 12962 (aquatic systems and recreational fisheries)

• Executive Order 13007 (Indian sacred sites)

• Executive Order 13112 (Invasive Species)

• Executive Order 13175 (government-to-government consultation)

• Executive Order 13443 (hunting heritage and wildlife conservation)

• Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1996

• Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972

• Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (amended 1936 and 1972)

• Multiple-Use Sustained-Yield Act of 1960

• Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990

• National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (as amended)

• National Forest Management Act of 1976 (as amended)

• National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (as amended)

• National Invasive Species Act of 1996

• National Transportation Policy (2001)

• Organic Act of 1897

• Tongass Timber Reform Act of 1990

• Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1968, amended 1986

1-18 ▪ Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
Purpose and Need 1

Availability of the Project Record

An important consideration in preparing this Draft EIS is reduction of paperwork specified in 40 CFR 

1500.4. This Draft EIS provides sufficient site-specific information to demonstrate a reasoned 

consideration of the environmental impacts of the alternatives and ways to mitigate the impacts. The 

project record contains supporting material that documents the NEPA process and analysis from the 

beginning of the proposed project through project implementation.

The project record is located at the Petersburg Ranger District office in Petersburg, Alaska, in electronic 

form. Reference documents, such as the Forest Plan and the Tongass Timber Reform Act (TTRA), are 

available for review at public libraries and Forest Service offices throughout Southeast Alaska, including 

the Forest Supervisor's Office in Ketchikan. The Forest Plan and the associated Final EIS are also 

available on CD-ROM and on the Internet 

(http://www.fs.usda.gov/main/tongass/landmanagement/planning/).

Map and Number Qualification 

All map products in this document are reproduced from geospatial information prepared by the Forest 

Service. Geographic information system (GIS) data and product accuracy may vary. Using GIS products 

for purposes other than those for which they were created may yield inaccurate or misleading results. The 

Forest Service reserves the right to correct, update, modify, or replace GIS products without notification. 

For more information, contact the Petersburg Ranger District. 

In addition, the accuracy of calculations made from GIS layers varies with the quality of the mapping 

itself. Numbers presented in tables in this document may not sum correctly due to rounding. Other slight 

anomalies due to rounding may also occur. Therefore, all numbers should be considered as approximate.

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 1 – Purpose and Need ▪ 1-19
1 Purpose and Need

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Chapter 2

ALTERNATIVES
CHAPTER 2 – ALTERNATIVES 

Introduction

This chapter describes the alternatives considered for the KPI Project. It includes a discussion of how the 

alternatives were developed, a description of each alternative considered, and a map of each alternative 

considered in detail. This chapter also presents the alternatives in comparative form, with the goal of 

identifying the differences among the alternatives and providing a clear basis for choice among options by 

the decision-maker and the public. For a discussion and analysis of site-specific, project-level effects, 

consult Chapter 3, Environment and Effects. 

Alternative Development

An alternative is a set of activities designed to meet the Purpose and Need for action (see Chapter 1). 

An intertie transmission line from Kake to Petersburg has been discussed for many years and has been the 

subject of a number of studies dating back to the 1970s. More recent studies include the Southeast Alaska 

Intertie Study prepared in 2003 and a follow-on study of the KPI Project completed in 2005 and 2010 

(Hittle et al. 2005, 2010), and subsequently updated in 2014 (Hittle 2014). Over the years, at least 10 

alternative routes have been discussed with six carried forward and evaluated in more detail in the 2005 

KPI study. This study resulted in the identification of two primary route corridors, a northern route 

generally located on the north end of Kupreanof Island (the “Northern” route), and a southern route that 

crosses the Wrangell Narrows near the Tonka log transfer facility and proceeds west across Duncan Canal 

(the “Center-South” route) (Hittle et al. 2005). These routes and other alternatives across NFS lands were 

further evaluated by the Forest Service in the planning process for the Forest Plan and the two primary 

route corridors – the Northern and Center-South routes – were subsequently both identified as Potential 

Power Transmission Corridors in the Forest Plan. None of the other potential routes between Petersburg 

and Kake are designated as Potential Power Transmission Corridors in the Forest Plan. These two 

primary route corridors form the basis for the alternatives considered in detail in this Draft EIS. The 

Proposed Action—the project proposed by the applicant—follows the Northern route corridor. 

In April/May 2010, the Forest Service published its NOI for this Draft EIS in the Federal Register, placed 

notices in local newspapers (the Petersburg Pilot and Ketchikan Daily News), and distributed a public 

scoping brochure to approximately 200 individuals, groups, and agencies (see Chapter 1). Based on 

public input and further evaluation during and after the EIS public scoping period, the proposed action 

and alternatives were revised. A corrected NOI published in the Federal Register in July 2014 outlined 

the changes and requested additional public input. These revisions are discussed in more detail in the 

Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Study section below. 

Alternatives Considered in Detail

Four alternatives are considered in detail in this Draft EIS, including the no action alternative. The three 

action alternatives are shown in Figure 1-1. Table 2-1 summarizes the characteristics for the action 

alternatives. This information is based on the preliminary project design conducted to date for the 

proposed project. The evaluation of potential impacts to the natural and human environment in Chapter 3 

of this Draft EIS (and summarized later in this chapter) reflects this information. As noted in the 

introduction to this chapter, the following section, Project Components Common to All Action 

Alternatives, provides detail on the project components referenced in the following alternative 

descriptions. 

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 2 – Alternatives ▪ 2-1
2 Alternatives 

Table 2-1. Summary of Characteristics by Alternative

Characteristic

Alternative

2

(Proposed 

Action) 3 4

Total Length (miles) 59.9 60.3 51.9

Miles on NFS Lands 48.9 50.6 45.9

Voltage 69 or 138 kV 69 or 138 kV 69 or 138 kV

Primary Structure Type Single wood pole Single wood pole Single wood pole

Average Structure Height (feet) 55 55 55

Estimated Number of Structures 813 813 748

Average Span Length Between Structures (feet) 350 to 400 350 to 400 350 to 400

Overhead Length (miles) 57.3 57.3 50.4

 - Length along Existing Roads (miles) 33.7 33.7 36.6

 - Length along Existing Roads (%) 59% 59% 73%

Marine Crossings (miles) 1.2 3.1 1.5

 - Submarine Cable (miles) -- 3.1 1.5

 - Directional Bore (miles) 1.2 -- --

Underground Length (miles) 1.4 -- --

Total Unroaded Length (miles) 23.6 23.6 13.8

 - Length of Shovel Trails (miles) 21.6 21.6 6.5

 - Length of Temporary Matting (miles) 2.0 2.0 7.3

Length of Temporary Access Spurs (miles) 7.6 7.6 6.2

Number of Helicopter Pads 83 83 47

Alternative 1 – No Action

Alternative 1 is the no action alternative and is analyzed to provide a baseline for evaluation of the 

impacts associated with the action alternatives. Under this alternative, the Forest Service would not 

provide authorization for the proposed project and a new electric transmission line would not be built. 

The city of Kake would continue to be served by the existing, isolated electric system, which depends upon 

high-cost diesel generation. 

Alternative 2 – Proposed Action

This alternative starts at the existing SEAPA substation south of Petersburg (Figure 2-1). Staying south 

of Petersburg the alternative follows an existing gravel road 3.5 miles east-northeast to Frederick Sound. 

The line would continue northwest along Sandy Beach Road to Outlook Park. The portion of the line 

extending along Sandy Beach Road would be placed underground (Figure 2-2). In addition, the existing 

distribution line along this road would also be placed underground. 

From Outlook Park, the transmission line would cross Frederick Sound and the mouth of the Wrangell 

Narrows via a horizontal directional bore that would place the cable beneath the channel. The horizontal 

directional bore would extend approximately 1.2 miles, coming ashore on Kupreanof Island, near Prolewy 

Point. From this point, this alternative follows the Northern route Potential Power Transmission Corridor 

to Kake. The Northern route corridor follows the unroaded east shoreline of Kupreanof Island north to 

the mouth of Twelve Mile Creek. From there the corridor turns southwest away from the shoreline and 

parallels existing Forest Road 6310, south of Portage Bay. From the south side of Portage Bay, the 

corridor continues west across the North Kupreanof IRA (# 211) to Forest Road 6030, and from there 

parallels Forest Roads 6030 and 6040 to Kake. 

2-2 ▪ Chapter 2 – Alternatives Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
Alternatives 2

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 2 – Alternatives ▪ 2-3

Figure 2-1. Alternatives 2 and 3
2 Alternatives 

2-4 ▪ Chapter 2 – Alternatives Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Figure 2-2. Alternatives 2 and 3 Proposed Marine Crossing 
Alternatives 2

This alternative is 59.9 miles long. The majority of the transmission line (57.3 miles) would be above 

ground, with the remaining 2.6 miles located either beneath Frederick Sound and the Wrangell Narrows 

(1.2 miles) and underground along Sandy Beach Road in Petersburg (1.4 miles). The average span length 

between structures would range from 350 to 400 feet and approximately 813 single-pole structures would 

be installed. Alternative 2 would also include a 24-strand fiber optic communication cable. An estimated 

59 percent or 33.7 miles of the overhead portion of the proposed transmission line would follow existing 

roads. The proposed transmission line would be located adjacent to the existing NFS roads to the extent 

possible, but would not be in the same location in all areas due to the ruggedness of the terrain and other 

environmental constraints. In locations where poles would be located off the road by more than 20 feet, 

an access work pad would be created by extending the road fill to the site. Where the distance from the 

road makes this impractical, temporary matting would be used to gain access to the site during 

construction. These temporary spurs, consisting of access work pads and/or temporary matting, are 

identified as “temporary access spurs” in Table 2-1. 

Access for construction along the remaining 23.6 miles (41 percent) of the overhead portion of the route 

would be via shovel trails supported by temporary matting panels. Shovel trails would be used for an 

estimated 21.6 miles, with temporary matting used for 2.0 miles (Table 2-1). Figure 2-1 shows where 

existing roads, shovel trails, and temporary matting would be used during construction. Helicopters 

would be used to support construction activities, especially in areas without roads. Helicopter pads would 

be located along the 23.6 miles of the alternative that are not located adjacent to an existing road. These 

pads would be spaced approximately every 0.25 mile (see the Helicopter Pads section, below).

This alternative would cross parts of three IRAs: North Kupreanof (# 211), Missionary (# 212), and Five 

Mile (# 213). 

Alternative 3 – Northern Route with Submarine Cable 

This alternative starts at the existing SEAPA substation south of Petersburg. Staying south of Petersburg the 

alternative follows an existing gravel road 3.5 miles east-northeast to Frederick Sound. The transmission 

line would cross Frederick Sound via a 3.1-mile-long submarine cable that would come ashore near Prolewy 

Point on the east shore of Kupreanof Island. This proposed crossing, which would originate near Sandy 

Beach Park, is the only difference between Alternatives 2 and 3. This difference is shown in the 

Alternatives Detail inset on Figure 2-1 and as a separate figure (Figure 2-2). The remainder and majority of 

the proposed transmission line routes under Alternatives 2 and 3 are the same (see Figure 2-1).

Like Alternative 2, after coming ashore on Kupreanof Island near Prolewy Point, this alternative follows 

the Northern route Potential Power Transmission Corridor north along the unroaded east shoreline of 

Kupreanof Island north to the mouth of Twelve Mile Creek. From this point the corridor turns southwest 

away from the shoreline and parallels existing Forest Road 6310, south of Portage Bay. From the south 

side of Portage Bay, the corridor continues west across the North Kupreanof IRA (# 211) to Forest Road 

6030, and from there parallels Forest Roads 6030 and 6040 to Kake. 

This alternative is 60.3 miles long. The majority of the transmission line (57.3 miles) would be above 

ground, with the remaining 3.1 miles located along the floor of Frederick Sound, as noted above. The 

average span length between structures would range from 350 to 400 feet and approximately 813 singlepole structures would be installed. Alternative 3 would also include a 24-strand fiber optic 

communication cable. An estimated 59 percent or 33.7 miles of the overhead portion of the proposed 

transmission line would follow existing roads. A total of 7.6 miles of temporary access spurs would be 

required for this alternative. 

Access for construction along the remaining 23.6 miles (41 percent) of the overhead portion of the route 

would be via shovel trails supported by temporary matting panels in some wetland areas. Shovel trails 

would be used for an estimated 21.6 miles, with temporary matting used for 2.0 miles (Table 2-1). Figure 

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 2 – Alternatives ▪ 2-5
2 Alternatives 

2-1 shows where existing roads, shovel trails, and temporary matting would be used during construction. 

Helicopters would be used to support construction activities, especially in areas without roads. Helicopter 

pads would be located along the 23.6 miles of the alternative that are not located adjacent to an existing 

road. These pads would be spaced approximately every 0.25 mile (see Helicopter Pads section, below).

This alternative would cross parts of three IRAs: North Kupreanof (# 211), Missionary (# 212), and Five 

Mile (# 213). 

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route

This alternative starts 8 miles south of Petersburg where it would connect to the existing Tyee-WrangellPetersburg transmission line approximately 8 miles south of Petersburg via a new tap or small switch 

yard. This alternative would cross the Wrangell Narrows and Duncan Canal via submarine cable 

crossings, approximately 0.6 mile and 0.9 mile in length, respectively. From the Wrangell Narrows 

crossing, the Center-South route corridor follows Forest Road 6350 across the Lindenberg Peninsula to 

Duncan Canal. Across Duncan Canal, the corridor continues across the South Kupreanof IRA (# 214) to 

Forest Road 6314S and from there parallels existing NFS roads to Kake. A map showing the CenterSouth route (Alternative 4) is presented as Figure 2-3.

This alternative is 51.9 miles long. The majority of the transmission line (50.4 miles) would be above 

ground, with the remaining 1.5 miles located under Wrangell Narrows and Duncan Canal, as noted above. 

The average span length between structures would range from 350 to 400 feet and approximately 748 singlepole structures would be installed. Alternative 4 would also include a 24-strand fiber optic communication 

cable. An estimated 73 percent or 36.6 miles of the overhead portion of the proposed transmission line would 

follow existing roads. A total of 6.2 miles of temporary access spurs would be required for this alternative. 

Access for construction along the remaining 13.8 miles (27 percent) of the overhead portion of the route 

would be via shovel trails supported by temporary matting panels in some wetland areas. Shovel trails 

would be used for an estimated 6.5 miles, with temporary matting panels used for 7.3 miles (Table 2-1). 

Figure 2-3 shows where existing roads, shovel trails, and temporary matting would be used during 

construction. Helicopters would be used to support construction activities, especially in areas without 

roads. Helicopter pads would be located along the 13.8 miles of the alternative that are not located 

adjacent to an existing road. These pads would be spaced approximately every 0.25 mile.

This alternative would cross one IRA: South Kupreanof (# 214). 

2-6 ▪ Chapter 2 – Alternatives Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS ChFigure 2-3. Alternative 4 
2 Alternatives 

Project Components Common to All Action Alternatives

While each of the alternatives considered in this Draft EIS would differ in their routing, they would all 

share certain common elements. This section describes those aspects of the proposed project that would 

be common across all of the alternatives.1

 Although these components are common across all 

alternatives, there are instances where they would differ by alternative. These differences are highlighted 

in the following discussion, as appropriate. 

Voltage 

The proposed transmission line would be built to transmit power at either 69 or 138 kV. A load flow 

analysis conducted as part of the KPI feasibility study considered 34.5 kV, 69 kV, and 138 kV operating 

voltages (Hittle 2014). The study found that a 34.5 kV operating voltage could adequately serve total 

loads in Kake up to about 2 megawatts (MW) and would be sufficient to accommodate the existing load, 

but would not provide for much commercial growth in the future. The Kake load alone, even with a 

reasonably high level of growth, could be reliably served by a system operating at 69 kV. Operating the 

system at 138 kV would be sufficient to serve Kake, assuming a reasonably high level of growth in the 

future, and also allow for the expansion of the existing SEAPA interconnected network, if new regional 

hydroelectric resources were developed in the future. 

Based on this study, the proposed line is being designed to comply with 69 kV standards. Insulators and 

certain poles would, however, likely be designed to 138 kV standards to provide adequate conductor 

spacing for raptor protection. Raptor protection is discussed in more detail in Chapter 3 of this Draft EIS.

Structures

The action alternatives would consist of single wood pole structures with horizontal post insulators. The 

average span length between structures is estimated to be 350 to 400 feet, with an average above-ground 

height of 55 feet. The KPI feasibility study describes this as a short span, road-side transmission line 

design and notes that it has been used successfully for other transmission applications elsewhere in 

Alaska (Hittle et al. 2010, Hittle 2014). 

The following typical structure types would be employed for all three action alternatives:

• Tangent pole structures: These structures are the type most commonly used on a transmission 

line and are used on relatively straight portions of the transmission line. Because the conductors 

are in a relatively straight line, tangent structures are designed only to handle small line angles 

(changes in direction) of 0 to 2 degrees. Tangent pole structures are usually characterized by 

horizontally attached insulators, which support and insulate the conductors and transfer wind and 

weight loads to the structure (Figure 2-4).

1 One exception is the Underground Line Installation discussion below, which applies only to Alternative 2.

2-8 ▪ Chapter 2 – Alternatives Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

 
Alternatives 2

Figure 2-4. Typical Tangent Pole Structure

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 2 – Alternatives ▪ 2-9
2 Alternatives 

• Angle structures: These structures are used where transmission line conductors change direction. 

These types of structures are designed to withstand the forces placed on them by the change in 

direction. Angle structures may be: (1) similar to tangent structures, using horizontally mounted 

insulators to attach the conductors and transfer wind, weight, and line angle loads to the structure; 

or (2) similar to strain or dead-end structures, using insulators in series with the conductors to 

bring wind, weight, and line angle loads directly to the structure (Figure 2-5). Horizontal loads 

on angle structures are typically countered with guy wires that extend from the upper end of the 

pole at a nominally 45 degree angle to anchors placed opposite the conductor angle.

• Dead-end structures: This structure type is typically used where transmission line conductors 

turn at a wide angle or end. Dead-end structures are designed to be stronger than tangent 

structures and are often larger. Typically, insulators on a dead-end structure are in series with the 

conductors (horizontal) to bring wind, weight, and line angle loads directly to the structure

(Figure 2-6). As with angle structures, horizontal loads on these structures are typically 

countered with guy wires that are anchored into the ground.

As indicated in Figures 2-4 to 2-6, all structures would be set in the ground (see the Foundation and 

Structure Support section below).

Conductors

The wires that carry the electrical current on the transmission line are called conductors. The proposed 

transmission line would consist of three sets (called phases) of conductors. The conductor proposed for 

the overhead transmission line sections is 336.4 kcmil 30/7 Aluminum Cable Steel Reinforced 

(ACSR)/AW “Oriole/AW.”2

 The selected conductors would be capable of transmitting loads larger than 

the current electrical loads in Kake and would also be able to support the physical loads associated with 

wind, snow, and ice. 

Three conductor sizes were considered in the 2005 feasibility study and 2010 update: 336, 266, and 4/0

(Hittle et al. 2005, 2010). The study indicated that all three conductors would be adequate to meet the 

expected maximum electrical load at Kake. The larger conductor (336 ACSR) was selected because 

much of the terrain crossed by the proposed alternatives is rough and could be difficult to reach for timely 

maintenance or repair. The additional mechanical strength of the 336 ACSR conductor is expected to 

reduce the amount of maintenance required over the life of the proposed project. The existing TyeeWrangell-Petersburg transmission line uses this conductor and the two systems would be able to share a 

common stock of spare conductor. Non-reflective wire would be used for the overland sections of the 

transmission line to reduce line visibility. 

The conductors would be insulated and supported through polymer type insulators of the required 

strength with the associated hardware making suspension, deadend, and jumper assemblies. The 

mechanical and electrical characteristics of the insulator will be selected to provide ample safety margin 

for the expected mechanical loads and assure excellent electrical performance for the operation of the line 

under normal conditions and abnormal voltages. The proposed horizontal post insulator configuration is 

shown for a tangent structure in Figure 2-4.

2 A circular mil is a unit of area, equal to the area of a circle with a diameter of one mil (one thousandth of an inch). 

Large wires, like transmission line conductors, may be expressed in thousands of circular mils or kcmil.

2-10 ▪ Chapter 2 – Alternatives Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

 
Alternatives 2

Figure 2-5. Typical Angle Structure

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 2 – Alternatives ▪ 2-11
2 Alternatives 

Figure 2-6. Typical Deadend Structure

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Alternatives 2

For safety reasons, the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC) has established minimum clearances 

above grade based on line voltage and land use under the line. The NESC required clearance must be 

maintained under two conditions: 1) the conductor sagging at its maximum operating temperature (220

degrees Fahrenheit [° F] minimum), and 2) the NESC “Heavy” loading district requirement of 0.5 inch 

radial ice at 30° F. The vertical clearance for 69 kV and 138 kV lines above roads and lands that can be 

traversed by trucks is 20.7 feet and 22.2 feet, respectively, and the vertical clearance for communication 

conductors (fiber optic cable) above roads and streets is 16 feet, per NESC rules 232B1, 232C1a and 

232D4. The proposed line would be designed to meet or exceed these requirements under all three action 

alternatives.

Underground Line Installation

Approximately 1.4 miles of Alternative 2 would be installed underground along Sandy Beach Road in 

Petersburg. This portion of the alternative is located on non-NFS lands (Figure 2-1). Along this stretch 

of the proposed alternative, it is expected that a trench approximately 4-feet-deep and 3-feet-wide would

be dug along the length of the placement. The three phase conductors of the KPI Project would be 

enclosed in a single high-density polyethylene (HDPE) conduit approximately 8 inches in diameter. An 

appropriate backfill material would be used around the conduit for necessary thermal transfer. In areas 

where the KPI Project includes undergrounding of nearby Petersburg Municipal Power & Light (PMPL) 

distribution lines, the distribution lines will be enclosed in a separate conduit in the same trench as the 

KPI. Appropriate separation distances will be maintained between the KPI and PMPL lines in the trench. 

There may be some sections where the underground line would be placed with horizontal directional 

boring. These sections could potentially include placement under roads and high traffic areas. 

Fiber Optic Cable

The action alternatives each include a 24 strand fiber optic communication cable. Initially, the fiber optic 

system would be used for control of the KPI system. Fiber optics technology uses light pulses rather than 

radio or electrical signals to transmit messages and can be used to gather information about the 

transmission line system, such as the amount of power being carried, meter readings at interchange points, 

and the status of equipment and alarms. The fiber optic cable also allows voice communications between 

power dispatchers and line maintenance crews and provides instantaneous commands that control the 

power system operation. 

The ALCOA All-Dielectric Self-Supporting (ADSS) 24 strand aerial cable selected for the preliminary 

design for the KPI Project would be more than sufficient to meet the communication needs of control and 

data collection for operation of the new transmission line. In addition, extra fiber would be available for 

commercial and system voice communication in the future and the terminations of the fiber optic cable 

would likely be connected to local communication systems at a later date. For the overhead portions of 

the line, the fiber strands would be bundled within an aerial cable and located on the proposed 

transmission line structures (Figures 2-3 through 2-5). For the submarine crossings, the fiber-strands 

would be an integral part of the bundled cable design. 

Pole Structure Design

Preliminary structure and support design is based on the assumption that the mix of soils along the 

proposed alternative routes is approximately 75/15/10 percent for upland soils, rock, and wetland (hydric) 

soils, respectively. However, even in the areas considered upland, the top 3 to 5 inches of material is 

organic and has essentially no lateral strength capability. As a result, the preliminary design for tangent 

structures in upland soils is based on standard embedment depths (10 percent of the pole length plus 

2 feet) plus an additional 2 feet, for a total of 10 percent of pole length plus 4 feet. 

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 2 – Alternatives ▪ 2-13
2 Alternatives 

Structures located in rock and guyed structures are assumed to be embedded at standard embedment 

depths (10 percent plus 2 feet). Pole structures located in wetlands would be stabilized by using a wood 

raft at ground line with side guys or through use of a foundation system. Foundation systems, where 

required, would either consist of driven H-piles or a culvert embedded at a depth required for lateral 

stability with the pole placed inside the culvert. Typical pole embedment (8.5 feet deep) is shown for the 

proposed single wood pole design in Figure 2-3. 

Pole structures could be assembled in a remote location and transported by truck, barge, or helicopter to 

staging areas near the right-of-way. Pole structures would be installed using standard pole installation 

trucks or multi-purpose equipment, depending on the location, with helicopters used to support these 

activities, especially in areas without roads (see the Pole Structure Assembly, Transportation, and 

Erection section, below). Use of pole installation trucks and multi-purpose equipment would result in 

some ground disturbance at the pole structures. Disturbance areas are assumed to be approximately 90 

feet by 90 feet, with a radius of 50 feet from the center of each structure used for the purposes of analysis.

Substation and Switching Station Concepts

Alternatives 2 and 3 would originate at the existing SEAPA substation located on non-NFS lands south of

Petersburg where the existing Tyee-Wrangell-Petersburg transmission line terminates (see Figure 2-1).

For Alternative 4, a new switching station is proposed on non-NFS lands further south of Petersburg, 

close to the narrowest part of the Wrangell Narrows (see Figure 2-3 for the proposed location). The new 

switching station would tap into the existing Tyee-Wrangell-Petersburg transmission line. The new 

station would be constructed with a breaker for the Kake exit to ensure continued system reliability for 

the existing Petersburg electrical system. With the breaker in place, any circuit problems on the proposed 

KPI transmission line would only affect the load serving Kake. Similarly, a second breaker would be 

installed for the Petersburg exit at the new switching station such that circuit problems north towards 

Petersburg would be isolated from affecting the Kake load. 

A new substation located in Kake is proposed under all three action alternatives. The proposed substation 

would be located on non-NFS lands approximately 4.8 miles south of the town. This new substation

would connect to IPEC’s existing 12.47 kV distribution system via a new distribution line. This new 

substation would be configured as follows:

• A single 69 kV/12.47 kV power transformer protected by a high-side fused disconnect

• A distribution class plus or minus 10 percent voltage regulator

• Two 12.47 kV feeders

• IPEC’s existing generating units would be interconnected with SEAPA’s system but would not 

generally be used at the same time that power is being delivered from the SEAPA system.

The substation site would be approximately 150 feet by 70 feet. An 8-foot-high fence consisting of 7 feet 

of chain link and one foot of three-strand barb wire would surround the equipment, with a minimum 

clearance of 10 feet from the fence to live parts. The fenced area would be approximately 140 feet by 60 

feet. The substation surfacing would be crushed rock (gravel) extending 3 feet to 5 feet outside the fence 

along with the buried ground grid conductor which extends 3 feet outside the fence and gate areas. In

addition, the site could potentially require a small parking area that would be adjacent to the substation 

site itself.

Right-of-Way Clearing

The transmission line right-of-way is assumed to be nominally 100 feet wide (50 feet either side of the 

center line) and trees within this area would be cleared. Brush would also be removed in the immediate 

vicinity of the transmission poles. In addition, trees located outside the right-of-way with the potential to 

2-14 ▪ Chapter 2 – Alternatives Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
Alternatives 2

strike the line were they to fall would also be removed. These types of trees are typically referred to as 

danger or hazard trees. In locations where trees are 100 feet to 150 feet tall, trees could be cleared up to 

150 feet from the transmission line center line. 

The average right-of-way clearing width in areas classified by the Forest Service as productive forest is, 

therefore, assumed for the purposes of analysis to be 300 feet wide. We have assumed this for the 

purposes of analysis, but not all of that width would necessarily need to be cleared, with the extent of the 

clearing being primarily dictated by line safety criteria and the nature of the vegetation. In order to 

maintain the safety of the structures and conductor, all trees that could grow up under the line or 

potentially fall over onto the line within 10 years of construction or during routine maintenance clearing 

would be cut down. Trees and brush would, however, be left whenever possible to reduce the impact on 

the environment, especially in visually sensitive areas, riparian zones, erosion prone areas, and sensitive 

wildlife habitats. 

Where the line is placed near roads the road itself would provide approximately 50 feet of cleared width 

on the roadside. Also, much of the area along the route of the Proposed Action and action alternatives has 

been subject to clear-cut (even-aged) harvest in the recent past. Areas that have been harvested, even as 

long as 35 years ago, have much shorter trees, often less than 40 feet in height. Fast growing scrub trees 

such as alder may require clearing within the right-of-way along existing roads. Typical pole placement 

and clearing requirements along existing NFS roads are shown in Figure 2-7. The average right-of-way 

clearing width along existing roads is assumed for the purposes of analysis to be 100 feet. The average 

clearing width in areas classified by the Forest Service as unproductive forest is also assumed to be 100 

feet.

The general clearing criteria for the action alternatives may be summarized as follows:

• Cut all brush in the immediate vicinity of structures.

• Cut all trees within 50 feet from the center line. With the exception of brush within the 

immediate vicinity (see above), low growing brush would not be cut within this area.

• Remove all trees that could strike the line if they were to fall within 10 years of construction or 

during routine maintenance clearing (out to approximately 150 feet from the centerline, as 

needed).

• Leave trees and brush wherever possible to reduce the impact on the environment, especially in 

sensitive areas such as riparian zones, erosion prone areas, sensitive wildlife habitat, and visually 

sensitive areas.

Where the terrain permits, trees would be cut in a “feathered” or “scalloped” pattern, narrowing near the 

poles, where there is little sway in the conductors, and widening at mid-span, where the conductors have 

maximum sway. Depending on the terrain and the height of trees and brush, the outer edges of the rightof-way can be thinned of only the tallest trees, leaving the brush and smaller trees in place. Where the 

line passes through relatively flat or uniform terrain, the right-of-way would be cleared as described 

above, including danger trees. Exceptions to these general clearing guidelines may occur in the lower 

part of valleys and in more rugged terrain where the transmission line spans from ridge-to-ridge. In these 

locations, trees growing in V-notches between ridges may be left standing.

Clearing guidelines will be documented in stream protection plans and other site-specific documents to 

ensure their implementation.

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Figure 2-7. Typical Clearing Along NFS Roads

NFS ROAD

NFS ROAD

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Timber felled during right-of-way clearing would be cruised and valued and sold to the project applicant. 

The applicant would be required to remove trees with commercial value as timber (i.e., merchantable 

timber) on lands that are 0.75 mile from either saltwater or a road network that leads to a community or 

LTF. This would apply to all areas except those where right-of-way clearing is required in stream buffers 

(see the Timber section in Chapter 3). In accordance with the Forest Plan, timber located in a 

Development LUD and utilized would count towards the Forest Service’s Allowable Sale Quantity 

(ASQ); timber cleared in a Non-Development LUD and utilized would not count toward the ASQ (USDA 

Forest Service 2008a). Previously harvested stands evaluated for commercial viability and timber 

removed and utilized would include young growth of commercial size, as appropriate. Deck locations for 

timber to be removed would be coordinated with the appropriate Forest Service staff, including timber 

staff, engineers, and contracting officers, and decked volume would be disposed of within a reasonable 

timeframe.

Access 

Use of Existing Roads

Existing NFS roads would be used to access portions of all three action alternatives. The proposed 

transmission line design is a short span, road-side design that takes advantage of the existing NFS roads 

that would be followed by the action alternatives. Originally built to support logging operations, these 

roads are now used in support of multiple use activities. Many of the roads have a numbered NFS 

designation (e.g., Forest Road 6030). The existing NFS roads that are part of the action alternatives 

include several isolated road systems that do not connect with one another (see Figures 2-1 and 2-2). 

Trucks and other equipment would use these existing NFS roads to transport workers, materials, and 

machinery along the length of the line where they exist. These roads are discussed in more detail in the 

Transportation section in Chapter 3 of this EIS.

The proposed transmission line will be adjacent to the existing NFS roads to the extent possible, but will 

not be immediately adjacent to the roads in all locations due to the ruggedness of the terrain and other 

environmental constraints. Roads follow natural contours and as a result tend to wind through areas of 

steep terrain to control the steepness. Transmission lines are designed to follow straight lines as much as 

possible and minimize the number of structures and angles. Transmission lines are also able to span 

between ridges and across terrain where construction may be difficult, as well as across environmentally 

sensitive areas. In locations where poles would be located off the road by more than 20 feet, an access 

work pad would be created by extending the road fill to the site. Where the distance from the road makes 

this impractical, native materials (logs and slash) would be used as an underlayment to allow vehicle 

access for construction, with temporary wood and/or high density polyethylene matting used where native 

vegetation is not readily available. These temporary spurs, consisting of access work pads and/or 

temporary matting, are referred to as “temporary access spurs” in this EIS. After installation of pole 

structures is complete, temporary matting and any areas where existing road fill may have been used 

would be removed and the affected areas would be recontoured as needed. 

Access to Unroaded Areas

In addition to stretches that follow existing NFS roads, all of the proposed action alternatives cross areas 

where there are no existing roads (see Table 2-1). Surface access in these areas would be via shovel trails 

supported by temporary matting panels in some wetland areas, particularly along Alternative 4 (see Table 

2-1). The routes used for surface access are assumed for the purposes of analysis to follow the centerline 

of the proposed transmission line route. 

Shovel trails would be temporary and for short-term use during proposed project construction only and 

would be decommissioned following construction. Shovel trails would be up to 16-feet-wide and use 

native materials (logs and slash) to allow the passage of vehicles. Use of rock fill is not anticipated; 

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 2 – Alternatives ▪ 2-17
2 Alternatives 

however, if needed, the nearest available rock source would be used and coordinated with Forest Service 

staff. Alternatives 2 and 3 would involve the development and use of 21.6 miles of shovel trail; 

Alternative 4 would require 6.5 miles (Table 2-1). Shovel trails would be used in wetland areas in 

locations where native materials (logs and slash) removed during right-of-way clearing are available for 

use as an underlayment to allow for the passage of wide tracked equipment. 

Temporary matting panels would be installed in wetland areas where sufficient native materials are not 

available. Alternatives 2 and 3 would require the use of an estimated 2 linear miles of temporary matting 

panels; Alternative 4 would require 7.3 miles (Table 2-1). Temporary matting panels would be primarily 

used in wetland areas with relatively flat terrain. Smaller streams may be able to be crossed using 

temporary matting panels; however, most crossings would require some bridging (see the Aquatic 

Resources section in Chapter 3 for additional detail on stream crossings and types of crossings). 

Helicopters could also be used to transport and install structures in some of these areas as discussed below 

in the Helicopter Use section.

The proposed temporary matting panels would likely be similar to the high density polyethylene mats 

shown in Figure 2-8. These mats are 8 feet by 14 feet wide, weigh approximately 1,050 pounds each, and 

can be configured to form a 7-foot-wide or 13-foot-wide useable surface. Based on past experience, the 

vendor for the mats shown in Figure 2-8 estimates that about 115 panels can be laid a day, approximately 

1,500 or 750 linear feet of travel way, depending upon the configuration (8-foot-wide or 14-foot-wide 

surface).

Figure 2-8. Temporary Matting Panels

An estimated 1,500 separate panels (assuming a 14-foot-wide trail), would be required for access for 

Alternatives 2 and 3. Alternative 4 would require an estimated total of 5,200 separate panels for a 14-

foot-wide trail. Using the assumption that up to 115 panels can be laid a day, 13 days would be spent 

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laying panels for Alternatives 2 and 3, with 45 days required to lay panels for Alternative 4. Prior to 

installing the mats, a geo-fabric may be laid down that aids in mat removal and cleaning. Mat installation 

would require the use of an excavator and larger loader. The most efficient installation approach would 

be to have the loader deliver the mats to the area. An excavator with a specialized bucket would then pick 

up and place the mats, and a two-person crew would adjust the placement, as necessary, and lock the 

connection pins. All temporary matting panels would be removed following construction. The vegetation 

of areas covered by temporary mats would be expected to recover to the point where impacts are not 

likely noticeable within 3 to 6 months of mat removal.

Stream Crossings

All alternatives would require the use of temporary stream crossings. Alternatives 2 and 3 would involve 

a total of 118 new stream crossings by either temporary shovel trails or temporary matting panels and 14 

new crossings by temporary access spurs (see Chapter 3, Aquatics for additional detail). A total of 16 

new temporary Class I stream crossings are proposed under these alternatives, 10 by temporary shovel 

trails or matting panels and 6 by temporary access spurs. Properly placed and maintained crossings 

would affect only local channel segments and have individually minor effects.

In the unroaded sections of Alternatives 2 and 3, a total of 10 Class I and 20 Class II streams would be 

crossed. An estimated 18 of these crossings would likely require the use of an embedded pipe arch, with 

the remaining 12 requiring bridges. With one exception, the bankfull widths of the fish-bearing streams 

that would likely require bridging are 6 feet wide or less. The exception, located in the Frederick Sound 

area, is approximately 110 feet wide. 

An estimated 88 non-fish-bearing stream crossings would be required for Alternatives 2 and 3. More than 

half this total (57 percent; 50 of 88) would likely be crossed using a circular pipe, with the remaining 38 

crossings likely requiring the use of either a modular bridge (3 crossings) or stringer bridge (35 

crossings). The majority of bridges required to span non-fish-bearing streams would span widths of 10 

feet or less; the exceptions would range up to 16 feet wide (bankfull width).

Alternative 4 would involve an estimated total of 70 new stream crossings by temporary shovel trails or 

matting panels, and 14 new crossings by temporary access spurs. A total of 28 new temporary Class I 

stream crossings are proposed under this alternative. 

Within the unroaded sections of Alternative 4, an estimated total of 28 Class I and 14 Class II would be 

crossed. An estimated 28 of these crossings would likely require the use of an embedded pipe arch, with 

the remaining 14 requiring bridges. Thirteen of the 14 fish-bearing streams that would likely require 

bridging are located west of Duncan Canal; bankfull widths range from 3 feet to 100 feet wide, with an 

average width of 39 feet. 

An estimated 28 non-fish-bearing stream crossings would be required for this route. Twenty of these 

streams would likely be crossed using a circular pipe, with the remaining 8 crossings likely requiring the 

use of either a modular bridge (3 crossings) or stringer bridge (5 crossings). The bridges required to span 

non-fish-bearing streams along this route would all span widths of 6 feet or less.

All stream crossings would follow Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines, Region 10 (R10) best 

management practices (BMPs), and National Core BMPs, as appropriate.

Helicopter Use

Construction access would be via existing roads, with temporary access spurs in some locations. In areas 

without roads, access would be via shovel trails supported by temporary matting panels in some wetland 

areas. Helicopters would be used to support these activities, especially in areas without roads. Project 

construction activities potentially facilitated by helicopters may include delivery of construction laborers, 

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2 Alternatives 

equipment, and materials to intermittent material drop locations or specific pole sites; structure 

placement; hardware installation; and wire stringing operations. 

Construction in unroaded areas is expected to be primarily ground-based with helicopter support, and this 

likely scenario is evaluated for each alternative in this EIS (see Table 2-1). However, to allow the 

construction contractor some flexibility, the construction specification will be written to allow the 

contractor the option of using ground-based or helicopter construction methods or a combination of the 

two. Use of a helicopter for pole installation may be driven by various factors, including access to the 

structure locations, construction schedule, and/or construction economics.

Helicopter Pads

Helicopters would be used to support construction along portions of all three action alternatives. Use of 

helicopters would require the installation of temporary helicopter pads along the proposed right-of-way 

for the selected alternative with pads likely constructed using logs. Upon completion, these pads would, 

over time be replaced with permanent helipads. These helipads would be up to 16 feet by 16 feet in size 

and made of aluminum, with a 4- to 6-leg foundation support system. The pads would be located within 

the proposed right-of-way, which would be cleared. The 4- to 6-leg support system would be the only 

parts of the pad in direct contact with the ground. Disturbance associated with these legs would be 

approximately 54 square feet or 0.01 acre per pad. Pads would be installed approximately every 0.25 

mile along the portions of the alternatives where there are no existing roads. An estimated total of 83 

pads would be required for Alternatives 2 and 3, with 47 pads expected to be required for Alternative 4 

(Table 2-1). Permanent helipad structures would meet Forest Service visual requirements to blend with 

the natural environment.

Staging Areas

Two or three staging areas would be required to construct the proposed transmission line. The exact 

locations of these areas have not been identified at this point, but they are expected to be located in 

already disturbed areas to the extent possible. One staging area would be located in an existing 

commercial area near Petersburg and another would be located in or near Kake. These areas would not be 

located on NFS lands. A third staging area could be potentially located on NFS lands near the end of the 

existing forest road system on Kupreanof Island, depending on the alternative selected. The exact 

locations will be identified by the construction contractor prior to construction. The applicant would 

complete any required site-specific environmental review of the staging areas once the locations are 

determined.

Each staging area would be approximately 2 acres in size. Construction equipment and materials such as 

poles, cable reels, insulators, drill rigs, and compressors would be temporarily stored in these areas during 

construction, as would fuel. Helicopter landing areas would also be located at these facilities. 

As distances from the end of the existing roads increase, it is expected that the poles and other 

construction materials, including temporary matting panels, may be delivered by truck or loader. 

However, helicopter support to intermittent material drop locations or to specific pole locations may also 

be needed. Where used, intermittent material drop locations would be areas up to 100 feet by 100 feet 

situated on upland areas, located approximately every 0.5 mile along and within the proposed 

transmission line right-of-way corridor. To limit the distance of helicopter travel, materials would most 

likely be placed on barges and transported to locations just offshore and in the vicinity of the transmission 

line route.

Marine Access and Log Transfer Facilities

Trees and brush would be cleared as described above (see Right-of-Way Clearing). Three existing 

LTFs—the Portage Bay, Little Hamilton Bay, and Tonka LTFs—could be used to transport logs cleared 

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from the right-of-way and transport construction personnel, equipment, and materials, as well as serve as 

temporary staging. These LTFs may be summarized as follows: 

• The Portage Bay LTF is located on Portage Bay on the north side of Kupreanof Island and 

could be used by Alternatives 2 and 3. This LTF is accessed by an existing isolated NFS road 

system that does not connect to any community (Figure 2-1). 

• The Little Hamilton Bay LTF is located on Little Hamilton Island, which is connected to 

Kupreanof Island by a land bridge road. Little Hamilton Island is located in Hamilton Bay on the 

west side of Kupreanof Island (Figures 2-1 and 2-3). Logs could be hauled to the Little Hamilton 

Bay LTF for transportation by barge or raft under all three action alternatives. 

• The Tonka LTF is located on Forest Service road 6350 (Forest Road [FR] 6350) on Kupreanof 

Island (see Figure 2-3). Originally constructed as an A-frame in 1977, modifications have been 

made to this LTF through the years, including a low angle ramp installation in 1990, drainage 

improvements in 2008, and various small boat float maintenance/modification tasks. The Tonka 

LTF was made larger and improved in 2013 and a new dock was added. This LTF could be used 

by Alternative 4 (Figure 2-3). 

If any of these LTFs are used, the applicant will be issued a special use permit that will comply with the 

terms and conditions of the Forest Service’s existing Alaska Pollutant Discharge Elimination System 

(APDES) permit. 

Marine Crossings

All three action alternatives would require marine crossings and coordination and approval by the Alaska 

DNR, ADEC, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries. These 

crossings may be summarized by alternative as follows:

• Alternative 2: This alternative includes a 1.2-mile horizontal directional bore beneath the mouth 

of Wrangell Narrows (Figure 2-1).

• Alternative 3: This alternative includes a 3.1-mile submarine cable crossing of Frederick Sound 

(Figure 2-1).

• Alternative 4: This alternative includes two water crossings: 1) a 0.6-mile submarine cable 

crossing of the Wrangell Narrows, and 2) a 0.9-mile submarine cable crossing of Duncan Canal 

(Figure 2-3).

Buried Cable Underwater Crossing (Directional Bore)

Directional bores are commonly used in the utility industry for placing pipes and conduits beneath rivers 

and other bodies of water. The horizontal directional drilling process involves a bore pit that would be 

installed a limited distance from the shoreline and an adjacent area of 40 feet by 60 feet for the drilling 

rig, other equipment, and materials. The directional boring process uses a drilling rig that pumps a 

drilling fluid to remove loosened materials and allows the material to be collected at the bore pit. The 

drilling fluid would be selected to be environmentally benign and not harm terrestrial and aquatic life.

The drilling fluid pressure will be monitored during the drilling process to insure that a “blow-out” does 

not happen or if it does happen that the drilling is immediately stopped. This would reduce the potential 

for harm to aquatic life. Drilling fluids and materials would be hauled off-site to an approved disposal 

area. 

The proposed buried cable underwater crossings would require up to a 10-inch-diameter bore be made 

below the channel and a HDPE pipe or steel conduit be installed in the boring. Conductors and fiber optic 

cable would be pulled into the pipe. 

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Alternative 2 includes a horizontal directional bore, as noted above. The length of the proposed boring 

between Petersburg and Prolewy Point is such that drilling rigs may need to be placed on both sides of the 

crossing. Neither of these locations are on NFS lands.

Submarine Cables

The proposed submarine cable that would be used for Alternatives 3 and 4 would be a single-armored, 69 

kV, 3-phase, 500 kcmil copper conductor, dielectric submarine cable with bundled fiber optic 

communication lines. The bundled cable would be about 6.5 inches in diameter (7.9 inches for 138-kV 

cable) (Figure 2-9). The three larger components shown in this figure are the conductors; the smaller 

cable represents the bundled fiber optic lines. Cables used for the proposed submarine crossings would 

be similar to the submarine cable crossing between Douglas Island and Young Bay that was installed 

during the summer of 2005. 

Figure 2-9. Representative Submarine Cable Design

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Submarine Cable Installation

In all cases, the submarine cable would be laid directly on the bottom of the bay or canal being crossed. 

Cable embedment or protection is not expected to be necessary except in areas of ship anchoring or fish 

trawling. A cable-laying vessel would be used to lay the cable, as well as transport the cable from its 

point of manufacture. Cable-laying vessels are specifically designed to lay underwater cables and are 

equipped with sophisticated navigational instrumentation and directional propulsion to permit accurate 

cable laying along a pre-plotted surveyed route.

A detailed geophysical investigation and bathymetric survey of each crossing location will be required to 

identify bottom conditions, obstacles, and tidal currents. A subsequent geotechnical investigation that 

includes a coring and drilling program may also be needed, depending on the results of the geophysical 

surveys. Obstacles such as boulders and rock outcrops need to be avoided to prevent suspension of the 

cable. Excessive bending due to suspension or cable swing caused by strong currents can lead to 

mechanical failure of the cable over time. Strong currents may require anchoring of the cable along the 

route to prevent it from moving. In addition, movement of boulders due to currents may further require 

rock armor for cable protection.

At the shorelines, the cable would be installed in a trench. Trenches would be cut under water using onbarge equipment. Trenches on land would be dug using a backhoe or rock saw, depending upon 

conditions. An access road/working easement would be required along the land portion of the trench to 

allow trenching and cable installation activity, and provide access to the submarine cable termination 

yards.

The work activities associated with installation of submarine cables and construction of the associated 

termination yards would take place over two work seasons. The first season would be used for clearing 

and site preparation of the cable land trench, termination yards, and work roads. The land and underwater 

trenches would be excavated in the second season, the termination yards would be constructed, and the 

cable would be installed and terminated. 

Barge and/or helicopter would be used to transport personnel, equipment, and materials to the termination 

yard locations. The termination yard equipment would be erected by helicopters. Pre-assembly of certain 

materials such as insulator strings would be performed in a staging area before transportation to the site 

for installation.

Submarine Cable Termination Yards

At the termination points of the submarine cable, a small facility would be located on land to provide the 

interconnection of the submarine cable and the overhead line. The facility would include switching, 

protection and monitoring equipment and would include a pole with a riser. The total amount of space 

needed for the facility is estimated to be about 30 feet by 30 feet. They would generally be located near 

the shoreline but behind the existing tree lines to limit visibility from the water. The termination yards 

would contain lightning arrestors and risers that connect the overhead system to the submarine cable and 

include structures up to 50 feet in height. Disconnect switches would also be installed to allow for the 

electrical isolation of the cable for maintenance and testing. A typical submarine cable yard is shown in 

Figure 2-10.

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2 Alternatives 

Figure 2-10. Typical Submarine Cable Termination Facility

Alternatives 3 and 4

One submarine crossing, approximately 3.1 miles in length, is proposed for Alternative 3. The proposed 

crossing would originate to the southeast of Sandy Beach Park in Petersburg on borough-owned land

(Figure 2-1). The cable would initially extend from the beach to a depth of approximately 180 feet and 

then turn northwest towards Kupreanof Island. Generally, the depth of placement would be in the range 

of 150 to 200 feet. The cable would need to be placed sufficiently north of the entrance to Wrangell 

Narrows to avoid the dredging area but to the south of an underwater disposal area north of Petersburg. 

The cable would terminate on Kupreanof Island in the general vicinity of Prolewy Point but due to beach 

conditions in this area, the termination location may need to be moved north to the area of Five Mile 

Creek (Hittle et al. 2010). 

Two separate submarine cable crossings are proposed for Alternative 4 (Figure 2-3). The first crosses 

Wrangell Narrows about 8 miles south of downtown Petersburg and is about 0.6 mile in length. Tide 

movements are indicated to be very limited at this location and the waters are generally calm. Review of

NOAA charts suggests that the water depth at the Wrangell Narrows crossing increases uniformly from 0 

feet at the shoreline to 110 feet near the center of the channel (Hittle et al. 2010). 

The second crossing is about 0.9 mile in length and crosses Duncan Canal between points about 1.75 

miles south of the mouth of Mitchell Slough on the east and about 2.5 miles south of Indian Point on the 

west side of Duncan Canal (Figure 2-3). The water depth at the location of the Duncan Canal crossing is 

approximately 100 feet at maximum. 

If Alternative 3 or Alternative 4 is the selected alternative, a thorough submarine topographical survey 

and subsurface profile will be completed to determine the best routes for the submarine cables for the 

selected alternative, as well as associated terminal locations. The submarine topographical survey will 

identify areas to be avoided, such as shipwrecks, large rocks, and rock outcroppings, that could cause 

suspensions and damage to the cable.

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Operation and Maintenance

The proposed transmission line would require limited maintenance. Routine annual inspections would be 

conducted via helicopter and along existing roads to ensure that the transmission line is in fully 

operational condition and that no damage has occurred to the conductors, insulators, pole structures, 

guying, or safety systems. If damage is evident, repair work would depend on the extent of the damage 

and the type of equipment required to make the repairs. Helicopters would be needed to support 

substantial repairs, such as pole replacements, along unroaded portions of the transmission line. 

The right-of-way would require regular maintenance clearing. This clearing would occur at 10-year 

intervals and would be expected to restore the original clearing boundaries. Removal of any additional 

danger trees would also occur during this maintenance or earlier if they are identified as potential 

problems during the annual flight inspections of the line.

Final Design and Construction

Prior to actual construction of the proposed transmission line, final design work would be completed for 

the selected alternative to determine the precise location of all KPI Project components. Exact structure 

locations would be determined using terrain data primarily collected using Light Detection and Ranging 

(LiDAR), augmented as necessary by other terrain data collection methods such as photogrammetry, high 

resolution aerial photography, and survey crews working on the ground. Structures would be positioned 

during final design to provide adequate conductor clearances above ground and other obstacles while 

minimizing potential impacts to other resources. This terrain data would also be used to locate the 

proposed shovel trails and temporary matting panel locations.

Construction of the proposed transmission line under all three action alternatives would involve the 

following major phases:

• Right-of-way clearing, log removal, and temporary access

• Prepare site and dig holes

• Pole structure assembly, transportation, and installation

• Wire stringing and clipping

Right-of-Way Clearing, Log Removal, and Temporary Access

Right-of-way clearing would involve the use of both mechanized heavy equipment and chain saws. 

Actual equipment selection and logistics would be the responsibility of the construction contractor.

Along much of the unroaded areas, wide-tracked, multi-purpose equipment is expected to be used to limit 

the number of equipment passes that are needed. The Linetrac 830G is an example of the type of 

equipment that might be used for this purpose (see Figure 2-11). Approximately 10 feet wide and 20 feet

long, this equipment incorporates a bulldozer, an auger, and a pole-lifting crane, with 30-inch-wide tracks 

and less than 8.0 pounds per square inch ground pressure.

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Figure 2-11.Construction Equipment for Use in Unroaded Areas

In unroaded areas, an excavator would initially be used to pioneer in the trail and place culverts and 

temporary bridges, where needed. In some forested areas, a feller buncher (a type of vehicle used for 

logging) would be used to cut and remove trees, and lay slash matting ahead of the excavator. Feller 

bunchers are most effectively used in young growth stands where tree diameter at breast height (DBH) is 

less than 24 inches. R10 BMP 13.9 has a slope restriction of 20 percent; however, in well-drained soils 

harvesting equipment may be able to work on slopes up to 35 percent. Shovel harvesting would likely be 

employed in those areas with larger trees (DBH greater than 24 inches). In wetland areas requiring 

limited clearing and without an adequate supply of natural underlayment material, temporary matting 

panels would be laid. With respect to work on hydric soils, R10 BMP 13.9 has a slope restriction of 

25 percent. 

To facilitate movement along the selected route, temporary matting panels would likely be delivered by 

helicopter or truck to intermittent material staging locations, which would be areas of approximately 200

feet by 200 feet situated on upland areas, approximately every 0.5 mile along the proposed transmission 

line route in unroaded areas. Intermittent material staging locations within unroaded sections would be 

located within the cleared right-of-way; specific locations would be identified as part of the final design 

planning and approved by the Forest Service in advance. Approximately 13 days would be required to 

lay an estimated 2 linear miles (1,500 panels) of temporary matting panels for Alternatives 2 and 3. 

Approximately 1.5 months (45 days) would likely be required to lay 7.3 linear miles (5,200 panels) of 

temporary matting panels for Alternative 4.

Culverts would be plastic pipe, galvanized steel pipe, or approved log culverts. Temporary bridges would 

also be required to cross certain streams. Bridges would be placed with tracked vehicles or airlifted into 

location. Some of the bridges could potentially be moved to other locations along the route as 

construction progresses along the length of the line. 

Trees and brush would be cleared as described above (see Right-of-Way Clearing). To minimize slash 

build up, areas of heavy slash would be piled and/or openings would be created through slash at regular 

intervals (every 100 yards and/or at identified game trail crossings), unless specifically waived by the 

Forest Service. 

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Approximately 15 to 25 workers would be involved in right-of-way clearing activities for one season. 

Right-of-way clearing and timber removal would be conducted in accordance with Forest-wide standards 

and guidelines, BMPs, and Forest Service R10 Soil Quality Standards.

Pole Site Preparation

Pole site preparation and hole digging would follow progressively behind right-of-way clearing. Review 

of soils in the project area indicates that soil types range from moss muskeg to rock. The preliminary 

design for the KPI Project is based on standard embedment depths plus an additional 4 feet (10 percent of 

pole length plus 4 feet) for tangent structures. Structures located in rock and guyed structures are 

assumed to be embedded at standard embedment depths (10 percent plus 2 feet). Pole structures located 

in wetlands would be stabilized by using a wood raft at ground line with side guys or by construction of a 

foundation system. The foundation system could consist of either driven H-piles or a culvert embedded at 

a depth required for lateral stability with the pole placed inside the culvert.

Holes can be dug by auger, excavator, backhoe, or hand, depending on the location. Factors determining 

how the hole would be dug include access and ground conditions. Hand crews would likely be limited to 

those areas where pole structures are installed by helicopter.

As noted with respect to right-of-way clearing and log removal, actual equipment selection and logistics 

would be the responsibility of the construction contractor, but the selected construction equipment is 

expected to be relatively small and compact because of the need to transport it by helicopter in certain 

areas. Approximately 20 personnel would be involved in foundation and pole setting work, which is 

expected to extend over two seasons.

Site-specific blasting plans, including contingency plans for overshot and resource damage would be 

prepared before any blasting associated with foundation placement occurred.

Pole Structure Assembly, Transportation, and Erection

Pole structures could be assembled in a remote location and transported by truck, barge, or helicopter to 

staging areas near the right-of-way. This process is designed to minimize the handling of materials and 

increase the efficiency of the work by avoiding having the framing crews work in rough terrain and adverse 

field conditions. For sections of the proposed alternatives that follow existing NFS roads, most pole 

structures are expected to be delivered and installed with standard pole installation trucks. In unroaded 

areas, wide-tracked, multi-purpose equipment, similar to the Linetrac 830G shown in Figure 2-11, is 

expected to be used. The use of this multi-purpose equipment would reduce the number of equipment 

passes needed, and would be used along shovel trails and areas with temporary matting panels. 

The holes used to place the poles would be backfilled as part of installation. This would be generally 

accomplished through the use of the same native material removed from the hole; however, some rock fill 

and/or cement may be needed. Backfilled material would be compacted with an attachment on the auger 

or backhoe or with a hand-operated tamper, and the earth mounded around the structure to take into 

account the settling that may occur during the first year following construction. Pole structures located in 

wetland areas would be stabilized through the use of a guyed system, as described above.

In some cases, helicopters could be used to deliver and install pole structures. In these cases, the 

assembled structure at the staging area would be flown directly to the site of installation, and the hand 

crew would receive the structure, stabilize it, and backfill immediately after delivery. 

Twenty personnel would be involved in pole structure assembly, transportation, and erection, which is 

expected to extend over two seasons.

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2 Alternatives 

Wire Stringing and Clipping

Bucket trucks or helicopters would generally be used to string the pilot line, and the wire would be pulled 

by cable pullers. Approximately 15 personnel would be present on the right-of-way during the wire 

stringing and clipping operation, connecting wires to each other and clamping them to insulators. 

Equipment required during stringing and clipping operations would include bull wheel pullers, drum 

pullers, reel winders, and pilot line winders.

Construction Schedule

Construction of the proposed project is expected to extend for two or three construction seasons. A 

generalized schedule for a 3-year project is shown below. It is possible this schedule could be 

compressed into two years, but this would not be determined until an alternative is selected and final 

design is either complete or near completion.

The major activities to be undertaken in each year are as follows:

Year 1

• Survey the centerline and identify areas for right-of-way and danger tree clearing

• Identify and prepare laydown and staging areas, with the intent of locating all staging areas in 

previously disturbed areas (e.g., existing roads, marine access facilities [MAFs], landings, or 

within the cleared right-of-way)

• Mobilize equipment to staging areas

• Clear the right-of-way and remove logs, where required

• Construct shovel trails

• Install temporary culverts and bridges along shovel trails, as needed

• Prepare needed helicopter pads immediately following and/or concurrent with right-of-way 

clearing

• Where existing roads are present, completion of the following would be done:

­ Clear the alignment

­ Construct temporary access spurs, as required

­ Construct other key components, as appropriate

• Order materials

Year 2

• Lay temporary matting panels where needed in unroaded areas

• Assemble, deliver, and install poles and construct the transmission line

Year 3

• Complete transmission line construction:

­ Install submarine cables and water crossing equipment

­ Construct the proposed substations and switchyards, as appropriate

­ Remove temporary culverts and bridges

­ Demobilize equipment and materials

2-28 ▪ Chapter 2 – Alternatives Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
Alternatives 2

Alternatives Considered but Eliminated from Detailed Study

The applicant proposes to construct the KPI Project, a new electric transmission line that would extend from 

Petersburg on Mitkof Island to Kake on Kupreanof Island. The proposed transmission line would provide a 

reliable and relatively low-cost source of power to Kake by connecting the community to SEAPA’s 

interconnected network. This section describes alternatives not considered in detail in this EIS, including 

alternative routes for the proposed transmission line, and other projects that might substitute for the 

proposed project.

Alternative Intertie Routes

Past Studies through 2003

An intertie transmission line from Kake to Petersburg has been discussed for many years and has been the 

subject of a number of studies dating back to the 1970s. Past studies have included the 1987 Southeast 

Alaska Transmission Intertie Study (the “1987 Intertie Study”) for the Alaska Power Authority, the “1996 

Feasibility Study” prepared for the State of Alaska, Department of Community Affairs, Division of 

Energy, and the Southeast Alaska Intertie Study prepared in 2003 (the “2003 Intertie Study”). The 2003 

Intertie Study provided an overview of a complete electrical transmission system in Southeast Alaska 

with emphasis on two initial transmission interconnection segments between: (1) Kake and Petersburg, 

and (2) Juneau, the Greens Creek Mine on Admiralty Island, and Hoonah. 

The 1987 Intertie Study, the 1996 Feasibility Study, and the 2003 Intertie Study all identified two primary 

routes for the KPI Project, a northern route generally located on the north end of Kupreanof Island and a 

southern route that crosses the Wrangell Narrows near the Tonka LTF and proceeds west across Duncan 

Canal (Hittle et al. 2005). The northern route goes to the north of the Petersburg Creek – Duncan Salt 

Chuck Wilderness Area, while the other route is located to the south of the Wilderness Area. Both routes 

were expected to follow existing NFS roads for the majority of their lengths. 

2005 Feasibility Report

In July 2004, the Southeast Conference received a grant from the Denali Commission to conduct a 

planning study for the proposed KPI Project. A Steering Committee was formed to oversee and guide the 

planning study. The Steering Committee included representatives from Kake and Petersburg, IPEC, the 

Thomas Bay Power Authority, and the Four Dam Pool Power Agency (now known as SEAPA). One 

principle goal of the study was to identify and analyze the various route alternatives for the transmission 

line between Petersburg and Kake. The Steering Committee met several times during the study period to 

review and ‘screen-out’ various route alternatives. This planning study is documented in the 2005 KakePetersburg Transmission Intertie Study Final Report (the “2005 Feasibility Report”) (Hittle et al. 2005) 

and summarized in the following paragraphs. The 2005 Feasibility Report was subsequently updated in 

2010 (Hittle et al. 2010).

As part of the 2005 Feasibility Report, several meetings were held in Kake with the Kake Village leaders, 

merchants, and utility personnel from IPEC. Time was also spent in Petersburg meeting with Forest Service 

personnel, Petersburg community leaders and officials, and the Superintendent of Petersburg Municipal Power 

& Light. Consulting engineers conducted a detailed field reconnaissance of the area between Petersburg and 

Kake. The reconnaissance included driving existing NFS roads out of Kake and roads accessible from 

Petersburg, as well as flying potential corridors by helicopter and fixed-wing plane. General locations for 

alternative routes were identified based on past studies, topography, and other physical constraints, with more 

specific criteria, including the following, used to refine the potential route locations:

• Generally parallel existing roads where possible

• Consider route locations where new service roads could be constructed

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 2 – Alternatives ▪ 2-29
2 Alternatives 

• Avoid disruption to known fisheries, aviation, and marine traffic

• Provide for submarine cable crossings that avoid dredging areas, commercial fishing areas, and 

major rock outcrops, and are accessible to shore terminals

• Maintain a minimum distance of 330 feet from known nesting areas of eagles

• Avoid and minimize impacts on scenic viewsheds

• Avoid and minimize, where possible, known muskeg or other wetland areas

• Maximize ground accessibility for maintenance purposes

In addition to the factors that had influenced past studies, the 2004/2005 planning study also considered 

potential intertie routes that could facilitate power deliveries to a major mining operation on Woewodski 

Island, were one to develop. The study also considered the possibility of a route through the west side of 

the Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness parallel to Duncan Canal. This route was 

considered because of the generally easy topography that would simplify construction of a transmission 

line.

The following 10 alternative routes were identified as part of this planning study:

1. Northern Alternative

2. Center–South Alternative

3. Center–North Alternative

4. Center–Center Alternative

5. Center–Woewodski Tap Alternative

6. Southern–Woewodski Alternative

7. Upper Duncan Canal Alternative

8. Petersburg to Kake (Submarine Cable) Alternative

9. Petersburg Creek Alternative

10. Southern–Woewodski Tap (Submarine Cable) Alternative

The 10 alternative routes were presented to the KPI Steering Committee in a meeting on January 12, 

2005, for consideration. Two of these routes, Alternative 8 and Alternative 10, involved extensive 

lengths of submarine cable and were removed from further consideration due to expected higher costs. 

Alternative 9, along Petersburg Creek on Kupreanof Island, was considered impractical due to the 

sensitive environment in this area. Alternative 7 was also removed from consideration because it would 

involve a lengthy submarine cable in the northern region of Duncan Canal. The removal of these 

alternatives from consideration left the following six alternatives, which were evaluated in detail as part 

of the 2004/2005 planning study. As indicated below, the Center-Woewodski Tap Alternative would be 

an extension of the Center-South, Center-North, or Center-Center routes to serve the potential 

Woewodski mine and is not a standalone alternative.

• Northern Alternative (66.0 miles total length, one 3.1-mile marine crossing). Generally located at 

the north end of Kupreanof Island, previously defined as the Northern Alternative in the 2003 

Intertie Study. For the most part, this route follows the route of a permanent road between Kake 

and Petersburg as defined in the Southeast Alaska Transportation Plan (SATP) dated August 

2004.

2-30 ▪ Chapter 2 – Alternatives Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
Alternatives 2 • Center-South Alternative (51.7 miles total length, two marine crossings totaling 1.6 miles). 

Similar to Center-Center route but crosses Duncan Canal at a point farther south on the canal. 

This route was defined in previous studies as the Southern Alternative and is also referred to as 

the Tonka-Duncan Canal route.

• Center-North Alternative (59.0 miles total length, one 0.6-mile-long marine crossing). Connects 

to the existing Tyee transmission line south of Petersburg, crosses Wrangell Narrows, proceeds 

west across and then north on the Lindenberg Peninsula through the Petersburg Creek-Duncan 

Salt Chuck Wilderness where it intersects with the route of the Northern Alternative. The CenterNorth Alternative was also referred to as the Wilderness Route.

• Center-Center Alternative (51.4 miles total length, two marine crossings totaling 5.5 miles). 

Originates at the same location near Petersburg as the Center-North route but continues northwest 

toward Kake across Duncan Canal rather than passing through the Wilderness area.

• Center-Woewodski Tap Alternative (13.6 miles total length, one 0.9-mile-long marine crossing). 

This alternative is an extension of the Center-South/Center/North route that proceeds from a point 

just west of Wrangell Narrows south on the Lindenberg Peninsula where it crosses to Woewodski 

Island. The Woewodski Tap would be constructed at a later time only if a mining facility were to 

be developed. The cost estimate for the Woewodski Tap Alternative included in this report is 

based on the assumption that one of the Center routes is constructed first to establish the 

connection to the TWP transmission line and cross Wrangell Narrows. With the Northern 

Alternative, additional cost would be incurred to extend the Woewodski Tap to the TWP 

interconnection point.

• Southern Woewodski Alternative (75.7 miles total length, two marine crossings totaling 1.5 

miles). Connects to the existing Tyee transmission line near the south end of Mitkof Island, 

proceeds west along the south end of Mitkof Island, crosses Wrangell Narrows to Woewodski 

Island and continues west across Woewodski Island, crosses Duncan Canal to south Kupreanof 

Island and then proceeds northwest up the length of Kupreanof Island to Kake. Along much of its 

route on Kupreanof Island, the Southern Woewodski Alternative follows existing NFS roads. 

The SATP also identifies a permanent road between Kake and south Kupreanof Island along this 

corridor.

Based on screening level cost estimates prepared by Hittle et al., the Steering Committee decided at a 

February 25, 2005, meeting that the relatively high cost Center-Center and South Woewodski 

Alternatives would be removed from further consideration. The Northern Alternative was noted to be 

significantly more costly than the other remaining alternatives but the Committee indicated that further 

cost evaluation of the Northern Route should be conducted because this route follows the route of the 

potential year-round road between Kake and Petersburg, as identified in the State’s SATP. 

As a result of the discussions during the February 25, 2005, meeting, the following route alternatives were 

identified for more detailed evaluation in the 2005 Feasibility Report:

• Northern Alternative

• Center–South Alternative

• Center–North Alternative (Wilderness Route)

The Center-Woewodski Tap Alternative was also included in this list of alternatives in the 2005 

Feasibility Report (Hittle et al. 2005), but, as noted above, this is not a standalone alternative, rather it is a 

potential connection that would be viable in the event that one of the south routes of the KPI Project was 

built and a large-scale mining operation was established on Woewodski Island.

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 2 – Alternatives ▪ 2-31
2 Alternatives 

Following completion of the 2005 Feasibility Report, the Center-South route was selected as the preferred 

route by the KPI Steering Committee (Hittle et al. 2005). The Center-North Alternative was primarily 

eliminated because it crossed the Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness. The screening level 

cost analysis also indicated that it would be more expensive to construct than the Center-South 

Alternative. 

The seven alternative intertie routes considered as part of the 2004/2005 planning that were eliminated 

from further consideration are identified in Table 2-2, which also identifies the primary reason each route 

was eliminated.

Table 2-2. Alternative Intertie Routes Considered, but Eliminated from Detailed Study

Alternative Reason for Elimination

Center-North (Wilderness Route) Crosses the Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness;

Relatively high cost compared to the Center-South Alternative

Center-Center Relatively high cost with similar environmental impacts to the 

Center-South Alternative

Southern–Woewodski Relatively high cost due mainly to its length, at least 10 miles 

longer than the other alternatives

Upper Duncan Canal Extensive length of submarine cable and associated high costs

Petersburg to Kake (Submarine Cable) Extensive length of submarine cable and associated high costs

Petersburg Creek Parallels Petersburg Creek, an environmentally sensitive area

Southern–Woewodski Tap (Submarine Cable) Extensive length of submarine cable and associated high costs

2010 and 2014 Feasibility Report Updates

The 2010 Feasibility Report update prepared by Hittle et al. (2010) re-examined the construction and 

operating and maintenance costs for the Northern alternative and updated the cost for the Center-South 

route. The update also evaluated the likely options for the location of the KPI Project in the immediate 

vicinity of Petersburg more closely. As a result of this evaluation, two options were identified for the 

initial portion of the line extending from the Petersburg area to Kupreanof Island. The Feasibility Report 

was updated again in 2014 (Hittle 2014) based on the changes to the Northern Alternative described 

below and changes to the proposed construction approach. Estimated costs were also revised as part of 

the 2014 update.

EIS Public Scoping

The Forest Service initiated public scoping for the KPI Project in April/May 2010. The scoping materials 

identified two alternative routes: the Center-South and Northern Alternatives, with two options (Options 1 

and 2) identified for the Northern Alternative. The Northern Alternative, Option 1 included a 3.1-milelong submarine cable across the mouth of the Wrangell Narrows. This option is included in the EIS as 

Alternative 3. The Center-South Alternative is included in the EIS as Alternative 4.

The Northern Alternative, Option 2 was eliminated from further consideration based on public input and 

further evaluation during and after the EIS public scoping period. Option 2 originated at the existing 

SEAPA substation south of Petersburg and crossed the Wrangell Narrows at close to its narrowest point 

(approximately 1,400 feet) via a horizontal directional bore or buried cable. The option then continued 

north, crossing Petersburg Creek and passing behind the city of Kupreanof, before joining the Northern 

route Potential Power Transmission Corridor and continuing on to Kake. Many of the comments received 

from the public during scoping for the proposed project were from Kupreanof residents concerned about 

the potential impact of the Northern Alternative, Option 2 on their community, as well as potential 

impacts to Petersburg Creek. On May 6, 2013, the Petersburg Borough Assembly passed Resolution 

2013-15, a “resolution that Petersburg Creek be protected from encroachment by an electrical corridor or 

electrical power lines.”

2-32 ▪ Chapter 2 – Alternatives Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
Alternatives 2

Working with the Borough of Petersburg, the Mayor of Kupreanof, and others, the applicant along with 

the current KPI Steering Committee identified a third Northern Alternative option. This option addresses 

potential concerns related to the 3.1-mile-long submarine cable proposed as part of the Northern 

Alternative, Option 1 without crossing Petersburg Creek or passing behind the city of Kupreanof. This 

option has been identified as the Proposed Action and is evaluated in this EIS as Alternative 2. The 

Northern Alternative, Option 2 was subsequently eliminated from further consideration. A corrected NOI 

published in the Federal Register in July 2014 outlined the above changes and requested additional public 

input. 

Alternative Energy Sources

Comments received during public scoping requested that the EIS evaluate the development of alternative 

sources of energy near Kake rather than the Proposed Action or as an alternative to the Proposed Action. 

Suggested sources of local power include local hydropower, wind, geothermal, biomass, solar, and tidal 

generation. 

The purpose of this EIS is for the Forest Service to decide whether to authorize the applicant to construct, 

operate, and maintain the proposed KPI Project across NFS lands. The need for this action is established 

by the Forest Service’s responsibility under FLPMA to respond to an application for a right-of-way (as 

described further in Chapter 1 in the Forest Service Purpose and Need section). Development of a 

renewable energy project near Kake would not meet the purpose and need of this project and does not 

represent a reasonable alternative to the Proposed Action. 

The applicant and others are currently evaluating the development of potential new sources of renewable 

energy in Southeast Alaska, including the general vicinity of Kake and the KPI Project. SEAPA issued a 

Request for Offers of Power and Energy in January 2013 open to all classes of generation resources, 

including offers based on output from thermal, geothermal, wind, tidal, hydropower, or any mixture of 

resource types. SEAPA is also exploring additional hydropower options to supplement its existing power

sources, as well as exploring potential wind development opportunities along their existing interconnected 

system, as well as in the vicinity of the proposed KPI Project. If suitable projects exist in the vicinity of 

Kake and are developed, construction of the KPI Project would allow this new generation to serve the entire 

customer base in the area served by SEAPA. 

While potential sources of renewable energy continue to be evaluated, there are currently no proposals to 

develop a renewable energy project in the vicinity of Kake. The following paragraphs provide a brief 

overview of potential renewable energy projects in the vicinity of Kake and their current status.

Hydropower: As part of the Southeast Alaska Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), the Alaska Energy 

Authority (AEA) developed a comprehensive list of potential hydroelectric projects in the region, with 

projects identified from numerous sources. Almost 300 potential hydroelectric projects were identified, 

including four in the general vicinity of Kake: Goemere Creek at Washington Bay (1947); Ledge Lake 

near Saginaw Bay (1947); Gunnock Creek (1997; 2014); and Cathedral Falls Creek (2005). The years in 

parentheses represent the most recent information available on each project. The analysis conducted for 

the IRP identified a total of 24 potential hydroelectric projects that had the potential to be suitable to serve 

Southeast Alaska utility systems and communities. More than half of these projects, 14, were identified 

in the SEAPA Planning Region; none were located in the vicinity of Kake (Black & Veatch 2012).

The Sustainable Southeast Partnership (SSP) recently completed a reconnaissance report that takes 

“another look at local hydropower options to complement the work being done on the KPI.” The report 

considers the feasibility of developing hydropower on Gunnuk Creek in two phases: initially developing a 

run-of-the-river hydroelectric project (Phase 1) that could then later be augmented by a small reservoir 

(Phase 2). The report concludes that the results of the initial reconnaissance suggest that it may be 

appropriate to study this potential further with additional stream gaging and land surveys for rough design 

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 2 – Alternatives ▪ 2-33
2 Alternatives 

work (Christensen and Davis 2014). IPEC has subsequently applied to AEA for a grant to study this 

potential project further (SSP 2014). There are currently no proposals to develop this or other 

hydropower projects in the vicinity of Kake.

Wind: According to the Southeast Alaska IRP, there are small areas distributed throughout the region 

that may possess wind resources, but most utility-scale resources are in areas that are inaccessible due to 

terrain, in IRAs, or too far from population centers (Black & Veatch 2012). Efforts to measure wind 

resources in areas with potential for wind generation include data collection near Kake. Wind resources 

have been measured at a meteorological tower on a high headland on the northeast side of Kupreanof 

Island, about 12 miles by road from Kake. Based on 18 months of data collected from May 2010 through 

November 2011, a report prepared on behalf of SEACC indicated that the wind resource measured at this 

site is “very good” (V3 Energy 2012). There are currently no proposals for wind power projects in the 

vicinity of Kake.

Geothermal: Although Southeast Alaska has some potential opportunities for geothermal electric 

production, most of the area has only low to moderate temperature geothermal systems (Black & Veatch 

2012). Review of the Renewable Energy Atlas of Alaska (Renewable Energy Alaska Project 2013) did

not identify any potential geothermal resources in the vicinity of Kake. The Southeast Alaska IRP 

identified three potential geothermal sites that have been identified in Southeast Alaska in the past, none 

of which are located near Kake (Black & Veatch 2012).

Biomass: The Central Council Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska proposed a Kake Biomass 

Gasifier project and requested funds from AEA under the Renewable Energy Grant Fund, but 

subsequently withdrew from the project, which was not granted funds (Black & Veatch 2012). More 

recently the SSP prepared a preliminary assessment of the wood supply in the vicinity of Kake that could 

be used for biomass heat generation and concluded that sufficient wood appears to exist in the local land 

base to provide a renewable source of heat for commercial and residential use (Christensen 2013). There 

are currently no proposals for biomass projects in the vicinity of Kake. 

Solar: The Southeast Alaska IRP did not identify any solar projects in Southeast Alaska and 

recommended that solar not be used to meet the near-term needs of Southeast Alaska, but should instead 

be monitored and perhaps considered in the future as costs decrease (Black & Veatch 2012). There are 

currently no proposals for solar projects in the vicinity of Kake.

Tidal: According to the Southeast Alaska IRP, tidal energy development in Alaska is presently focused 

on kinetic tidal projects – underwater turbines turned by kinetic flow. The AEA has granted partial 

funding for two tidal power reconnaissance and feasibility studies in Southeast Alaska: the Port Frederick 

and Angoon tidal projects. A third project – the Gastineau Channel Tidal project – was also identified in 

the Southeast Alaska IRP (Black & Veatch 2012). There are currently no proposals for tidal projects in 

the vicinity of Kake.

Mitigation Measures

The Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service 2008a) presents management prescriptions for each land use 

designation and Forest-wide standards and guidelines that are to be followed in the development of 

mitigation measures, and also provides forest management goals and objectives. The plan does not 

contain project decisions. The analysis supporting this EIS discloses possible adverse impacts that are 

specific to the locality and to the actions proposed, as well as measures formulated to mitigate these 

impacts. In formulating mitigation measures, the Interdisciplinary Team was guided by forest 

management goals and objectives under the overall direction given by applicable LUD management 

prescriptions, and following the proposed Forest-wide standards and guidelines.

2-34 ▪ Chapter 2 – Alternatives Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
Alternatives 2

A variety of resource-specific mitigation measures, designed primarily to avoid or minimize adverse 

impacts, have been evaluated and incorporated into the preliminary project design, and would be 

incorporated into final design and implementation. These measures are summarized in Table 2-3 and 

address activities associated with structure installation, shovel trails, use of matting, temporary access 

spurs, helicopter pads, right-of-way clearing, and system operation and maintenance. Other Forest Plan 

standards and guidelines would also apply to the project and are incorporated by reference. 

In addition to the mitigation measures included in the Table 2-3, all appropriate R10 BMPs, updated 

Forest Service National Core BMPs (USDA Forest Service 2012a), and State of Alaska BMPs (ADEC 

2011) would apply. These practices are described in the BMP subsection below. 

Table 2-3. Site-specific Mitigation Measures for Clearing and Construction-related Activities

Mitigation 

Measure Description

General Mitigation Measures

G1

Conduct environmental staff review of final construction drawings and specifications prior to the 

package being sent out to bidding contractors to ensure that the package reflects and adheres to 

the mitigation measures outlined in this NEPA process. This effort will include Project Engineer, 

Project Manager, and Forest Service or approved third-party Environmental Compliance Monitor.

G2

Prior to construction, review plans for the clearing required for the transmission line right-of-way 

for conformance with permits and mitigation measures outlined during the NEPA process. This 

effort will include Project Engineer, Project Manager, and Forest Service or approved third-party 

Environmental Compliance Monitor.

G3

Prior to construction, inspect areas marked for clearing to determine conformance with agreed 

upon plans, and the need for adjustments based on special site conditions. Any changes or 

potential realignments will follow additional review requirements as outlined in Mitigation 

Measure S1. 

Soils/Aquatic Resources

F1 Minimize clearing in areas with high or very high mass movement potential.

F2 Suspension cable logging systems or other low impact system will be required in areas with high 

mass movement potential or on McGilvery soils.

F3 Required split yarding and directional felling along all streams that cannot be avoided or spanned 

(R10 BMPs 12.6, 12.6a, and 13.16).

F4 Span, without clearing, steep v-notch streams with high erosion potential.

F5

Establish timing restrictions for any instream activities in fish-bearing streams and streams with a 

downstream influence on fish habitat (R10 BMP 14.6 and Fish Standards and Guidelines). 

Locations and operating plans for heavy equipment placed in the right of way must be specified to 

ensure that all necessary stream crossings are specified and mitigated.

F6

Develop an erosion control plan, prior to construction commencement, to address soil disturbance 

during construction, operation, and maintenance activities. Measures will be developed to 

reestablish vegetation or otherwise stabilize soils (R10 BMPs 14.8 and 14.14).

F7

Remove construction slash in streams to ensure that debris generated during construction is 

prevented from obstructing channels or encroaching on streams. Right-of-way slash must not be 

left or placed below the high water mark at power line stream crossings (R10 BMP 14.19)

F8

Avoid construction in areas with high mass movement potential, when possible, by limiting the 

number the structures and by spanning areas of concern. Structure locations should incorporate 

site-specific geotechnical investigations to ensure location at stable sites

F9 To the extent practicable, implement feathering of edges where right-of-way clearing approaches 

within 100 feet of a temperature sensitive stream.

F10

Instream protection notwithstanding, where clearing is necessary within 100 feet of anadromous 

streams and their resident fish tributaries (Class I and II) leave felled trees in place but not 

blocking stream channel.

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 2 – Alternatives ▪ 2-35
2 Alternatives 

Table 2-3. Site-specific Mitigation Measures for Clearing and Construction-related Activities

(continued)

Mitigation 

Measure Description

F11

Prepare a Stream Course Protection Plan for all Class I streams and Class II streams flowing 

directly into Class I streams where the power line crosses and/or parallels the stream within 100 

feet (R10 BMP 13.16).

F12

If blasting is required, a blasting plan will be supported by site-specific geotechnical 

investigations showing blasting as a suitable and prudent practice. Blasting operations will be 

designed to reduce the risk of mass failure on potentially unstable or saturated soils. Use current 

regional specifications where mass wasting due to blast vibration is likely. Blasting plan will 

address corrective actions and contingencies for restoring resources damaged by overshot rock or 

mass wasting (R10 BMP 14.7).

F13

All ground disturbing support facilities (i.e., staging areas, barge locations, etc.); will require sitespecific erosion control and restoration plans prior to construction commencement and will be 

addressed in any required permits. These facilities will be designed to minimize the total area

disturbed, and their locations will be selected to minimize the number of required roads and 

landings necessary.

F14 Implement measures to minimize the use of the corridor by unauthorized vehicle use and prevent 

soils from being exposed to increased erosion risk.

F15 Routinely inspect disturbed areas to verify that erosion and stormwater controls are implemented 

and functioning as designed, and are suitably maintained. 

F16 Design and locate skid trails and skidding operations to minimize soil disturbance to the extent 

practicable. Provide breaks in grade and avoid long runs on steep slopes.

F17

Use low ground pressure equipment when practicable, particularly on equipment traveling over 

large portions of units with sensitive soils or site conditions. On sites having soils with low 

bearing strength, tracks need to be supported by logging slash, shrubs, other woody material, or 

pads to prevent rutting. This mattress material should be removed where necessary to restore the 

natural drainage pattern.

F18

Prior to final selection of submarine crossing locations and marine-associated logging operations, 

field verification will be undertaken to ensure avoidance of sensitive areas including estuaries, 

anadromous fish streams, eelgrass beds, and important fish aggregating areas.

Wetlands, Floodplains, and Riparian Management Areas (R10 BMP 12.5)

RMA 1

To the extent practicable, avoid siting transmission line structures in wetlands, floodplains, and 

riparian areas. Where this is not possible, BMPs and Forest Service Standards and Guidelines 

will be implemented to reduce overall disturbance.

RMA 2

Construction techniques used to cross wetlands must have minimal effects on wetland hydrology, 

chemistry, or biology, and meet all 33 CFR BMPs. A 404 permit will be applied for in the event 

that the project does not fall under a nationwide permit.

Vegetation and Timber

T1 Where practicable, locate right-of-way edges perpendicular to the prevailing winds to minimize 

windthrow.

T2 Use feathered right-of-way edges to minimize vegetation removal, windthrow, and visual 

impacts.

T3

Where feasible, merchantable timber felled during right-of-way clearing will be removed in 

accordance with specifications outlined in an approved Timber Settlement Agreement. The 

approved Timber Settlement Agreement will identify the timber required to be removed and 

specify how it will be removed and transported. 

T4

Develop and implement a post-construction site revegetation plan. Use suitable species and 

establishment techniques to cover or revegetate disturbed areas in compliance with local direction 

and requirements per FSM 2070 and FSM 2900 for vegetation ecology, and prevention and 

control of invasive species.

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Alternatives 2

Table 2-3. Site-specific Mitigation Measures for Clearing and Construction-related Activities

(continued)

Mitigation 

Measure Description

T5 Use ground-based yarding systems only where physical site characteristics are suitable to avoid or 

minimize potential impacts to vegetation and soils.

T6

Proposed shovel yarding on slopes greater than 35 percent should undergo interdisciplinary 

review before being approved. Areas with broken, uneven topography, or an area dissected by 

numerous incised drainages may not be suitable for shovel yarding. Harvesting in areas with 

hydric soils will be limited to areas with slopes < 25% (R10 BMP 13.9). 

T7

Spur roads for shovel access should be minimized and/or obliterated after use. The number of 

turns on shovel trails should be limited, depending on soil type and vegetative cover. Wide arc 

turns can be used to reduce soil disturbance on shovel trails (R10 BMP 13.9).

T8

All ground-based construction equipment will be cleaned prior to implementation and 

mobilization to the right-of-way and before equipment is transported to another area (e.g., 

between Kupreanof and Mitkof islands). On NFS lands, cleaning would be done according to 

Tongass National Forest requirements (see Forest Service Manual 2900-Invasive Species 

Management [USDA Forest Service 2011]).

T9

Should rock be needed, a quarry development plan would be reviewed prior to use of existing 

quarries or development of new rock quarries, and reviewed and approved by resource specialists 

and the District Ranger. Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines and BMPs would apply to reduce 

risk of increasing invasive plant species.

Wildlife

W1 Provide line markers on the transmission line to minimize the risk of bird collision at any known 

areas of concern.

W2

Provide for snag retention and structural diversity by leaving non-hazard snags within the cleared 

right-of-way. Leave non-danger trees and snags along the right-of-way boundaries. Where 

possible, allow the size and density of snags to be dictated by standards and guidelines for cavitynesting species. Non-hazard snags may be retained in clumps away from conductors and in 

protected draws to minimize blowdown effects and conflicts with safety standards.

W3

To minimize restriction of wildlife movements, pile heavy (more than 18 inches deep) slash, or 

create openings through slash at regular intervals (every 100 yards and/or at identified game trail 

crossings), unless specifically waived by the Forest Service.

W4

Maintain a 330-foot forested radius around any bald eagle nest identified within the Project Area. 

Between March 1 and August 31, restrict controlled blasting on all transmission line sites within a 

0.5 mile radius of a bald eagle nest site, and restrict all helicopter logging and/or flight paths

within one-quarter mile of a nest. These restrictions may be lifted after June 1 if the nest is found 

to be unoccupied. All activities will be consistent with Forest-wide standards and guidelines, 

National Bald Eagle Management Guidelines, and the National Bald and Golden Eagle Protection 

Act unless a variance is granted from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

W5

If a wolf den site is found in the right-of-way, restrict clearing construction within 0.5 mile during 

wolf mating, denning, and rearing periods, from February 1 to July 30. Timing restrictions may 

be lifted after April 30 if the den is determined to be unoccupied.

W6 Inform all construction personnel concerning laws restricting the use of aircraft, especially 

helicopters, for hunting and harassment of wildlife.

W7 Do not allow hunting activities by construction crews while they are using project housing, 

vehicles, or other project-related transportation.

W8 Follow USFWS recommendations for transmission conductor separation and height to prevent 

eagle electrocutions.

W10

Inform contract personnel and other persons in the area that bald eagles could potentially be present 

and that they are protected by law. Instruct all personnel about the proper procedures for reporting 

suspected sightings or signs of threatened, endangered or sensitive plant and animal species.

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2 Alternatives 

Table 2-3. Site-specific Mitigation Measures for Clearing and Construction-related Activities

(continued)

Mitigation 

Measure Description

W11

Limit project-related boat traffic and aircraft flights if humpback whales or Steller sea lions are 

observed migrating through or near the Project Area. Humpback whales should not be 

approached within 100 yards by boats less than 100 feet in length or within 1⁄4 mile by boats over 

100 feet in length. Avoid aircraft flights below 500 feet AGL in the vicinity of whales. Hauled 

out marine mammals should not be approached by boat within 100 yards. Sightings of humpback 

whales or Steller sea lions should be reported to the Forest Service.

W12

Conduct goshawk surveys on route if not conducted previously. Follow the Tongass National 

Forest Project-level Goshawk Inventory Protocol (Stangle 2009), if required. If a goshawk nest is 

discovered, it shall be reported to the Forest Service, and current Forest Plan direction will be 

followed to ensure protection of the nest and surrounding area.

Visual Resources

V1 Use non-reflective and non-refractive insulators if glass is not required for safety and reliability; 

and use non-specular conductors.

V2 At the time of delivery, inspect all line construction materials (poles and other structure elements, 

insulators, and conductors) for conformance with specifications related to color and reflectivity.

V3 In key viewshed areas, to the extent possible, feather visible right-of-way cuts by leaving the 

smaller vegetation and narrow the right-of-way near the structures.

V4 Develop and apply measures to restore and revegetate LTF sites and staging areas if using areas 

that are not already disturbed. 

V5 Helipads and other structures will be painted to blend in with the surrounding environment. Paint 

colors will be approved by the Forest Service.

Recreation

R1 Keep all permitted outfitters/guides in the area informed of construction schedule. Provide 

advance notice to allow outfitters/guides to plan trips around construction activities.

Cultural Resources

C1

Prior to construction, conduct cultural resource surveys on the selected alternative route affected 

by design changes made since initial field surveys. Focus surveys on areas of high cultural 

resource probability as defined in a programmatic agreement between the USDA Forest Service, 

the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and the Alaska State Historic Preservation 

Officer. Prior to construction, complete all consultation with the Alaska State Historic 

Preservation Officer, and if necessary, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation and 

appropriate Native tribes.

C2

Avoid right-of-way clearing and construction of transmission line structures at known cultural 

sites where practicable. If avoidance of cultural sites is not feasible or practicable, applicant’s

cultural resource contractor will develop a data recovery plan to mitigate the effects on those sites 

in accordance with Forest Service guidelines and involve the State of Alaska and the appropriate 

Native tribes.

C3 Exposure of previously unknown cultural properties during construction will be reported by the 

project environmental compliance monitor to applicant’s cultural resource contractor and the 

Forest Service. The cultural resource contractor in consultation with the Forest Service 

archaeologist will determine if it is appropriate for the unknown properties to be recorded and 

evaluated for National Register eligibility.

Site-Specific Rerouting Considerations

S1

During final design, field check locations that have specific resource concerns and make minor 

adjustments to routes or structure placement where practicable if it would result in a reduction of 

environmental impacts.

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Alternatives 2

Best Management Practices

The following BMPs would be employed to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects to soil, water 

quality, and riparian resources during the construction and maintenance of powerlines and transmission 

facilities (Fac-9, USDA Forest Service 2012a):

• Limit corridor disturbance, particularly in or near riparian areas, surface waters, shallow 

groundwater, unstable areas, hydric soils, or wetlands.

• Consider temporary road location and standards, type of construction equipment (wheeled, 

tracked, and helicopter), size and location of footings and guy anchors, and revegetation 

requirements during project design.

• Use applicable R10 and National Core BMPs for Mechanical Vegetation Management Activities 

when using mechanical treatments to remove or manage vegetation from the project corridor.

• Aggressively address unauthorized uses of the corridor, such as motorized vehicle use, that are 

exposing soils, increasing erosion, or damaging the facilities.

Apply measures to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects to soil, water quality, and riparian 

resources by implementing measures to control surface erosion, gully formation, mass slope failure, and 

resulting sediment movement before, during, and after mechanical vegetation treatments (Veg-2, USDA 

Forest Service 2012a):

• Establish designated areas for equipment staging, stockpiling materials, and parking to minimize 

the area of ground disturbance (Fac-2, USDA Forest Service 2012a).

• Locate landings, skid trails, and slash piles in suitable sites to avoid, minimize, or mitigate 

potential for erosion and sediment delivery to nearby waterbodies.

• Develop an erosion control and sediment plan that covers all areas disturbed during transmission 

line construction 

• Apply soil protective cover on disturbed areas where natural revegetation is inadequate to prevent 

accelerated erosion before the next growing season.

• Divert surface runoff around bare areas with appropriate energy dissipation and sediment filters.

• Use suitable species and establishment techniques to cover or revegetate disturbed areas in 

compliance with local direction and requirements per FSM 2070 and FSM 2900 for vegetation 

ecology and prevention and control of invasive species

• Install sediment and stormwater controls before initiating surface-disturbing activities to the 

extent practicable.

• Operate equipment when soil compaction, displacement, erosion, and sediment runoff would be 

minimized.

• Avoid ground equipment operations on unstable, wet, or easily compacted soils and on steep 

slopes unless operation can be conducted without causing excessive rutting, soil puddling, or 

runoff of sediments directly into waterbodies.

• Routinely inspect disturbed areas to verify that erosion and stormwater controls are implemented 

and functioning as designed and are suitably maintained.

• Maintain erosion and stormwater controls as necessary to ensure proper and effective functioning.

• Implement mechanical treatments on the contour of sloping ground to avoid or minimize water 

concentration and subsequent accelerated erosion.

Apply applicable measures to avoid, minimize, or mitigate adverse effects to soil, water quality, and 

riparian resources during ground-based skidding and yarding operations by minimizing site disturbance 

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 2 – Alternatives ▪ 2-39
2 Alternatives 

and controlling the introduction of sediment, nutrients, and chemical pollutants to waterbodies (Veg-3, 

USDA Forest Service 2012a):

• Use ground-based yarding systems only where physical site characteristics are suitable to avoid, 

minimize, or mitigate adverse effects to soil, water quality, and riparian resources.

• Design and locate skid trails and skidding operations to minimize soil disturbance to the extent 

practicable. Provide breaks in grade and avoid long runs on steep slopes concentrating runoff. 

• Use suitable measures during felling and skidding operations to avoid or minimize disturbance to 

soils and waterbodies to the extent practicable.

• Perform skidding or yarding operations when soil conditions are such that soil compaction, 

displacement, and erosion would be minimized.

• Directionally fell trees to facilitate efficient removal along predetermined yarding patterns with 

the least number of passes and least amount of disturbed area (e.g., felling-to-the-lead).

• Use low ground pressure equipment when practicable, particularly on equipment traveling over 

large portions of units with sensitive soils or site conditions.

• Use suitable measures to stabilize and restore skid trails after use and promote rapid revegetation. 

• Use cable or aerial yarding systems on steep slopes where ground-based equipment cannot 

operate without causing unacceptable ground disturbance (Veg-5, USDA Forest Service 2012a).

• Locate cable corridors to efficiently yard materials with the least soil damage (Veg-5, USDA 

Forest Service 2012a).

• Use suitable measures to minimize soil disturbance when yarding over breaks in slope (Veg-5, 

USDA Forest Service 2012a).

• Locate landings to minimize the number of required skid roads and minimize the size and number 

of landings as practicable to accommodate safe, economical, and efficient operations (Veg-6, 

USDA Forest Service 2012a).

• Establish and maintain construction area limits to the minimum area necessary for completing the 

project and confine disturbance to within this area (Fac-2, USDA Forest Service 2012a).

• Develop and implement an erosion control and sediment plan that covers all disturbed areas, 

including borrow, stockpile, fueling, and staging areas used during construction activities (Fac-2, 

USDA Forest Service 2012a).

• Apply soil protective cover on disturbed areas where natural revegetation is inadequate to prevent 

accelerated erosion during construction or before the next growing season. (Fac-2, Veg-2; USDA 

Forest Service 2012a).

• Develop and implement a post-construction site vegetation plan using suitable species and 

establishment techniques to revegetate the site (Fac-2, USDA Forest Service 2012a).

• Install sediment and stormwater controls before initiating surface-disturbing activities to the 

extent practicable (Fac-2, USDA Forest Service 2012a). 

• Limit the amount of exposed or disturbed soil at any one time to the minimum necessary to 

complete construction operations (Fac-2, USDA Forest Service 2012a).

• Limit operation of equipment when ground conditions could result in excessive rutting, soil 

puddling, or runoff of sediments directly into waterbodies (Fac-2, USDA Forest Service 2012a). 

• Proposed shovel yarding on slopes greater than 35 percent should undergo interdisciplinary 

review before being approved. Areas with broken, uneven topography, or an area dissected by 

numerous incised drainages may not be suitable for shovel yarding. Harvesting in areas with 

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Alternatives 2

hydric soils will be limited to areas with slopes less than 25 percent (R10 BMP 13.9, USDA 

Forest Service 2006). 

• Areas with broken, uneven topography, or an area dissected by numerous incised drainages may 

not be suitable for shovel yarding (R10 BMP 13.9, USDA Forest Service 2006). 

• On sites having soils with low bearing strength, tracks need to be supported by logging slash, 

shrubs, other woody material, or pads to prevent rutting. This mattress material should be 

removed where necessary to restore the natural drainage pattern (R10 BMP 13.9, USDA Forest 

Service 2006). 

• Live streams will not be crossed without the use of a temporary structure, such as a log mat (R10 

BMP 13.9, USDA Forest Service 2006). 

• Temporary spur roads for shovel access should be minimized and/or obliterated after use (R10 

BMP 13.9, USDA Forest Service 2006).

• The number of turns on shovel trails should be limited, depending on soil type and vegetative 

cover. Wide arc turns can reduce soil disturbance on shovel trails (R10 BMP 13.9, USDA Forest 

Service 2006).

• Minimize clearing in areas with high or very high mass movement potential.

• Required split yarding and directional felling along all streams that cannot be avoided or spanned 

(R10 BMPs 12.7 and 13.16, USDA Forest Service 2006).

• Span, without clearing, steep v-notch streams with high erosion potential.

Monitoring

Routine implementation monitoring assesses whether the project was implemented as designed and 

whether or not it complies with the Forest Plan. The Forest Service preparation of the special use permit 

for this project will incorporate an interdisciplinary review to ensure that all mitigation measures are 

included in the permit. Periodic interdisciplinary review of design plans and documents will also ensure 

that mitigation is implemented as intended on a site-specific basis. Forest Service permit administration, 

including field inspections and inspection documents, will ensure that mitigation is applied as intended 

during right of way clearing, powerline construction, operation, and maintenance activities. 

Planning for routine implementation monitoring began with the preliminary design of the transmission 

line. Routine implementation monitoring will be part of the applicant’s administration of the project 

construction contract. The project administrators ensure that mitigation measures are incorporated into 

contract documents and then monitor performance relative to contract requirements. The applicant will 

be required to have a third-party trained Environmental Monitor on-site during the two to three year 

construction period. The Environmental Monitor will be approved by the Forest Service and will ensure 

that all clearing and construction-related activities comply with Federal and State regulations and policies. 

The Environmental Monitor will also ensure that mitigation measures included in the EIS are followed. 

One of the Environmental Monitor's duties will be to train and work with the construction contractor's 

personnel (both management and labor) to ensure that they understand and follow the environmental 

requirements.

Comparison of Alternatives

This section compares outputs and environmental effects of the alternatives for the resources analyzed. 

The effects are summarized from Chapter 3, which should be consulted for a full understanding of these 

and other environmental consequences. Table 2-4 provides a comparison of alternatives relative to the 

issues and resources analyzed. 

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 2 – Alternatives ▪ 2-41
2 Alternatives 

Table 2-4. Comparison of Environmental Effects by Alternatives

Unit of Measure

Alternative

1 - No 

Action

2 - Proposed 

Action 3 4

Soils and Geology

New Detrimental Soil Disturbance:

On NFS Lands (acres) 0 110 110 89

Cumulative Detrimental Soil Disturbance (acres)

On NFS Lands (acres) 0 159 159 170

Aquatic Resources

Subwatersheds with more than 20% of Basin Area 

Harvested Since 1981 (number)1/

0 0 0 0

Number of Proposed Stream Crossings by Shovel Trail/Matting Panel:

- Class I 0 10 10 28

- Class II 0 20 20 14

- Class III 0 16 16 4

Number of Proposed Stream Crossings by Temporary Access Spur:

- Class I 0 6 6 0

- Class II 0 5 5 6

- Class III 0 0 0 1

Timber

Total Productive Forest Land Disturbed (acres) 0 358 358 496

Total Suitable Forest Land Disturbed (acres)3/ 0 135 135 253

Removal of Timber from the Regional Timber 

Base (Net Sawlog Volume) (MBF)

0 1,524 1,524 1,693

Botany - Rare Plants

Sensitive Plants with Potential to Occur (risk):

- Large yellow lady’s slipper orchid4/ 0 Low to Moderate Low to Moderate Low to Moderate

- Lobaria amplissima4/ 0 Low to Moderate Low to Moderate Low to Moderate

- Alaska rein orchid4/ 0 Low to Moderate Low to Moderate Low to Moderate

- Lesser round-leaved orchid4/ 0 Low to Moderate Low to Moderate Low to Moderate

Invasive Plants

Total Acres Disturbed 0 891 873.1 739.4

Risk of Spread (Relative)5/ 0 Highest Second Highest Lowest

Wetlands

Project-Related Disturbance to Wetlands (acres):

 - Forested Wetlands 0 166 157 106

 - Emergent Short-sedge Wetlands 0 4 4 4

 - Moss Muskegs 0 95 93 67

 - Forested Wetland/Emergent Sedge Complex 0 238 238 116

Total Wetland Disturbance (acres)6/ 0 502 491 293

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Alternatives 2

Table 2-4. Comparison of Environmental Effects by Alternatives (continued)

Unit of Measure

Alternative

1 - No 

Action

2 - Proposed 

Action 3 4

Wildlife and Subsistence

Impacts to Total POG (acres) 0 327 324 296

Impacts to High-Volume POG (acres) 0 99 97 51

Impacts to Large-Tree POG (acres) 0 12 12 3

POG affected within Beach Fringe and Riparian 

Buffers (acres)

0 182 178 130

Impacts to Deep Snow Winter Range for Deer 

(acres)

0 15 10 7

Deer Habitat Capability as Percent of 1954 Values 0 84 83 83

Transportation

Total Unroaded Length (miles) 0 23.6 23.6 13.8

 - Length of Shovel Trails (miles) 0 21.6 21.6 6.5

 - Length of Temporary Matting (miles) 0 2.0 2.0 7.3

Length of Temporary Access Spurs (miles) 0 7.6 7.6 6.2

Number of Helicopter Pads 0 83 83 47

Scenery

Total Disturbance (acres) in:

- Distinctive Scenic Attractiveness Class 0 0 0 0

- Foreground Distance Zone 0 325 307 132

- Areas with Very High Existing Scenic 

Integrity

0 309 309 222

Recreation

Net change from SPNM, SPM, or RN ROS 

settings to RM (acres)

0 417 417 241

Inventoried Roadless Areas

Total Disturbance by IRA (acres):

- North Kupreanof (211) 0 157.3 157.3 0

- Missionary (212) 0 5.2 5.2 0

- Five Mile (213) 0 271.9 278.5 0

- South Kupreanof (214) 0 0 0 279.1

- Total IRA Disturbance 0 434.4 441.0 279.1

Cultural Resources

Effects on NRHP Eligible Cultural Resource Sites None None None None

Notes:

MBF = thousand board feet

POG = Productive Old-Growth

ROS = Recreation Opportunity Spectrum; SPNM = Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized; SPM = Semi-Primitive Motorized; RN = 

Roaded Natural; RM = Roaded Modified

NRHP = National Register of Historic Places

1/ Estimates since 1981 include estimated disturbance by alternative.

2/ Shovel trails and temporary access spurs are included in the roads total under each alternative for the purposes of analysis.

3/ These totals include both old-growth and young-growth suitable forest land.

4/ None of the alternatives would have direct or indirect effects on known populations of this sensitive plant species. Risk is 

based on potential effects to undetected populations and potential habitat.

5/ Risk of invasive plant spread is directly related to total acres disturbed, which is reflected in the relative ranking in this table.

6/ Totals may not sum due to rounding.

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2 Alternatives 

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Chapter 3

ENVIRONMENT AND 

EFFECTS
Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Environment and Effects ▪ 3-1

CHAPTER 3 – ENVIRONMENT AND EFFECTS

Introduction

This chapter describes the existing environment for the KPI Project and evaluates the potential 

environmental effects of the alternatives. It also presents the scientific and analytical basis for the 

comparison of alternatives presented in Chapter 2. Following each resource description is a discussion of 

the potential environmental effects associated with the implementation of each alternative. All significant 

or potentially significant effects, including direct, indirect, and cumulative effects, are disclosed. Effects 

are quantified where possible; qualitative discussions are also included. The means by which potential 

adverse effects would be reduced or mitigated are also described. 

The discussions of resources and potential effects include existing information documented in the 2008 

Tongass Land and Resource Management Plan (Forest Plan) Final EIS (USDA Forest Service 2008c), 

other project EISs, project-specific resource reports, the results of field investigations, and other sources, 

as indicated. 

Land Divisions

The land area of the Tongass National Forest has been divided in several different ways to describe the 

resources. These divisions vary by resource since the relationship of each resource to geographic 

conditions and zones varies. The allocation of Forest Plan land use designations (LUDs) is one such 

division. Other divisions important for the effects analysis are described briefly here. 

Project Area

The KPI project area consists of 18 VCUs (see below). This area encompasses a total of 493,806 acres, 

including 39,826 acres of non-National Forest System (NFS) land (see Figures 1-1 and 1-2 in Chapter 1). 

Value Comparison Units 

VCUs are distinct geographic areas, each encompassing a drainage basin containing one or more large 

stream systems. The boundaries usually follow major watershed divides. The KPI project area includes 

18 VCUs (see Figure 1-2). 

Game Management Units

Game management units (GMUs) are geographical areas defined by the Alaska Department of Fish and 

Game (ADF&G) to manage wildlife populations. Legal hunting and trapping regulations govern each 

unit. There are 26 GMUs in the State of Alaska, 5 of which are in Southeast Alaska. Kupreanof and 

Mitkof Islands are located within GMU 3. 

Wildlife Analysis Areas

ADF&G subdivides GMUs into Wildlife Analysis Areas (WAAs), which are areas used by ADF&G to 

manage wildlife at a finer scale than the GMU. The proposed action alternatives cross a total of nine 

WAAs (2007, 5130, 5131, 5132, 5133, 5135, 5136, 5137, and 5138) that encompass approximately 

731,000 acres. Information compiled by WAA is used in the wildlife and subsistence analyses. 

Watershed and Subwatershed

The term watershed refers to the area that contributes water to a drainage or stream, or to that portion of a 

landscape in which all surface water drains to a common point. Watersheds can range from tens of acres 

that drain a single small intermittent stream to many thousands of acres for a stream that drains hundreds 
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3-2 ▪ Chapter 3 – Environment and Effects Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

of connected intermittent and perennial streams. To simplify characterization of the hydrologic systems 

involved, as well as the evaluation process, this section uses the drainage basin-scale definitions provided 

by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in their National Water Inventory System (USGS 2011). This 

inventory system applies a hierarchical identification number termed the Hydrologic Unit Code (HUC). 

These codes identify specific watersheds first at the regional level (multiple, major river basins) and 

progressing to the smallest, local level (drainage areas less than 100 square miles). The proposed Project 

evaluation methods use the USGS drainage basin delineations at the sixth level (or field), and generally 

use the term “subwatershed” to refer to the finer level (sixth-field), which is the smallest delineation 

provided by the USGS HUC system. There are a total of 20 subwatersheds with at least a portion of their 

drainage within the project area boundary. Information compiled by subwatershed is used in the Aquatic 

Resources analysis. 

Inventoried Roadless Areas

IRAs are undeveloped areas that typically exceed 5,000 acres, meet the minimum criteria for wilderness 

consideration under the Wilderness Act, and were initially inventoried during the Forest Service’s 

Roadless Area Review and Evaluation (RARE II) process, subsequent assessments, or Forest planning. 

Many IRAs have been modified since the initial RARE II inventory due to road construction and timber 

harvest. The inventory used for this project is the 2001 Roadless Rule inventory. The boundaries of the 

IRAs in this inventory are identified in the set of IRA maps contained in the Forest Service Roadless Area 

Conservation, Final EIS Volume 2 dated November 2000 (USDA Forest Service 2000). The KPI project 

area includes parts or all of four IRAs. Parts of the North Kupreanof (#211), Missionary (#212), and 

South Kupreanof (#214) IRAs and all of the Five Mile (#213) IRA are located within the project area (see 

Figure 1-3 in Chapter 1).

Biogeographic Province

The biogeographic province designation refers to 21 ecological subdivisions of Southeast Alaska that are 

identified by generally distinct ecological, physiogeographic, and biogeographic features (see the map in 

the Forest Plan Final EIS, USDA Forest Service 2008c, p. 3-132). Plant and animal species composition, 

climate, and geology within each province are generally more similar within than among adjacent 

provinces. Historical events (such as glaciers and uplifting) are important to the nature of the province 

and to the barriers that distinguish each province. The KPI project area is located in the 

Kupreanof/Mitkof Islands Biogeographic Province. 

Analyzing Effects

Each resource analysis includes an Environmental Consequences section that assesses the effects of 

implementing the proposed alternatives on the physical, biological, social, and economic environment. 

The CEQ regulations implementing NEPA include the following specific categories for use in the 

analysis of environmental consequences. 

Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Effects 

Direct environmental effects are those occurring at the same time and place as the initial cause or action. 

Indirect effects are those that occur later in time or are spatially removed from the activity. Cumulative 

effects result from incremental effects of actions, when added to other past, present, and reasonably 

foreseeable future actions, regardless of what agency or person undertakes such actions. 

In the Environmental Consequences sections, the direct and indirect effects are presented first, followed 

by cumulative effects. The analysis area used to assess direct and indirect effects varies by resource and 

is described at the beginning of each resource-specific section. For the purpose of evaluating cumulative 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Environment and Effects ▪ 3-3

effects, the IDT for this proposed project typically considered all lands in the project area. For some 

resources, a reduced or expanded boundary was evaluated. The cumulative effects analysis area for each 

resource is described in the appropriate section later in this chapter.

Under CEQ regulations and for the purposes of this analysis, “impacts” and “effects” are synonymous and 

are interchangeable. 

Past, Present, and Reasonably Foreseeable Projects 

Past Projects

Past projects considered in cumulative effects analysis are generally physically located on the landscape. 

The impacts of past projects combined with the natural environment, represent the affected environment 

that is described for each resource in this chapter. Past projects in the KPI project area include timber 

harvest, thinning of harvested stands, recreation developments, road construction and LTF construction, 

housing and building development in Petersburg and Kake, and dispersed private lands; and highway 

construction. 

Present and Reasonably Foreseeable Projects

The following actions are either presently underway or considered reasonably foreseeable, and are 

combined with past actions considered in the cumulative effects analysis. These actions include timber 

harvesting, young-growth treatments on NFS lands, road activities, including the proposed Kake Access 

Project, and ongoing or proposed restoration activities. The level of cumulative effects that may occur in 

the future due to these activities will depend on the rate at which new projects are implemented and the rate 

at which disturbances from past and present activities recover. Furthermore, if and when these reasonably 

foreseeable projects are implemented is heavily dependent on future levels of available funding.

Timber Harvest on NFS Lands

There are multiple timber harvest projects proposed or approved on NFS lands within the VCUs crossed 

by the KPI Project (USDA Forest Service 2013a). Table 3-1 lists projects identified in the Tongass 

National Forest Five Year Timber Sale Schedule and Contract Plan that are located in the KPI project 

area. These projects range in size from 0.3 and 0.5 million board feet (MMBF) for small sales to 30 

MMBF for the Portage Bay Timber Sale, which is partially located in the KPI project area.

The largest timber sale in the area is the Tonka Timber Sale. The implemented project identified in the 

Tonka Timber Sale Change Analysis involves a total harvest of 36.4 MMBF of timber on 2,221 acres 

using conventional and helicopter yarding systems (USDA Forest Service 2012b). The Tonka Timber 

Sale is located in VCUs 4370, 4390, and 4470, which are part of the KPI project area (Figure 1-2). The 

proposed project includes the construction of 7.1 miles of new system and temporary road: 1.4 miles of 

new system roads and 5.7 miles of temporary road (USDA Forest Service 2012b). All units are expected 

to be harvested (felled and yarded) by the end of the 2014 operating season. Some remaining decked 

timber may be hauled in the 2015 operating season. These sale activities would, therefore, be completed 

prior to construction of the KPI Project were it to occur.
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3-4 ▪ Chapter 3 – Environment and Effects Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Table 3-1. Timber Harvest Projects within the VCUs Crossed by the KPI Project

Fiscal 

Year

Decision 

Document Name

Timber Sale 

Name

Estimated 

Sale Volume 

(MMBF)1/ 

Affected VCU in 

KPI Project Area Route Corridor2/

2014 Portage Bay Portage Bay3/ 30.0 4440 Northern

2014 Mitkof EA Mitkof Heli 10.0 4470 Northern and Center-South

2014 Lindenberg EIS Unit 46 Small Sale 0.6 4370 Center-South

2014 Central Kupreanof 

EIS

Kake Small Sales 0.3 4290, 4380, 42604/ Northern and Center-South

2014 Mitkof EA Small Sales5/ 1.0 4470 Northern and Center-South

2015 Mitkof EA Small Sales5/ 0.5 4470 Northern and Center-South

2016 Mitkof EA Small Sales5/ 0.5 4470 Northern and Center-South

2017 Mitkof EA Small Sales5/ 0.5 4470 Northern and Center-South

2018 Mitkof EA Small Sales5/ 0.5 4470 Northern and Center-South

Notes:

1/ Estimated volume consists of old-growth saw and utility logs.

2/ Alternatives 2 and 3 follow the Northern Route corridor; Alternative 4 follows the Center-South Route corridor. 

3/ The Portage Bay timber sale has an estimated sale volume of 30 MMBF spread over two VCUs: 4430 and 4440. Only 4440 

is part of the KPI Project Area.

4/ The selected alternative for the Central Kupreanof EIS would harvest 26.3 MMBF from 1,329 acres of proposed harvest 

units spread over three VCUs (USDA Forest Service 2011b). The identified small sale would be located in one of these VCUs.

5/ Includes microsales and fuelwood.

Source: USDA Forest Service 2013a

The selected alternative for the Central Kupreanof EIS would harvest 26.3 MMBF from 1,329 acres of 

proposed harvest units in VCUs 4260, 4271, and 4290, which are all part of the KPI project area (USDA 

Forest Service 2011b). These units are mostly unharvested, with one small sale harvested to date and 

another small sale (0.3 MMBF) scheduled to be offered for sale in 2014 (Table 3-1). The remaining 

volume is not included in the current Tongass National Forest Five Year Timber Sale Schedule and 

Contract Plan, but a portion of, or all of the timber, could be made offered for sale as market conditions 

change.

Two other timber sale projects not included in the current Five Year Schedule have units in the KPI 

Project Area: Bocephus and Scott Peak. The Bocephus units consist of approximately 352 acres in VCUs 

4240, 4420, and 4430, which are all part of the KPI project area. The Bocephus units are some of the last 

remaining units from the Bohemia EIS. Located in the North Kupreanof IRA, these units are presently 

unavailable for harvest. The Scott Peak timber sale consists of 356 acres located in VCU 4440, which is 

part of the KPI project area. These units are currently unavailable for harvest due to litigation. 

A total of 2.7 acres of the identified units within the KPI project area coincide with the proposed 

disturbance footprint for Alternatives 2 and 3. These units are located along FR 6319 and part of the 

Scott Peak timber sale, which is currently in litigation. A total of 29.7 acres of the identified units in the 

KPI project area coincide with the disturbance footprint for Alternative 4. This total consists of units 

from the Central Kupreanof (16.9 acres) and Tonka (12.8 acres) projects. The Central Kupreanof units 

are located along FR 6314 and are not currently part of the Tongass National Forest Five Year Timber 

Sale Schedule and Contract Plan. The Tonka units are located along FR 6350 and are expected to be 

harvested prior to construction of the KPI Project were it to be approved. 

Free Use timber harvest is also expected to occur within the general area. Free use harvesting can be up 

to 10 thousand board feet (MBF) per person per year. Individuals must submit a Free Use Permit 

Application to the Forest Service prior to free use timber harvesting. Selected trees must also be 

evaluated and approved by the Forest Service prior to their removal. Free use removal is expected to 

have similar effects as micro-sales, although this type of removal may include more live standing trees.
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Young-Growth Treatments on NFS Lands

Pre-commercial thinning of even-age young-growth stands will occur within the VCUs crossed by the 

KPI Project in the future (USDA Forest Service 2013b). Currently, there are three thinning projects 

proposed within the VCUs crossed by the KPI Project: the Kake, Portage Bay, and Tonka thinning 

projects. The Kake project is scheduled to be implemented in 2018 and expected to treat about 318 acres 

in VCUs 4250, 4271, and 4290 (all three of which are crossed by both the Northern Route and the CenterSouth Route corridors [Alternatives 2, 3, and 4]). The Portage Bay project, which is also scheduled to be 

implemented in 2018, would treat about 873 acres in VCUs 4420, 4430, and 4440; two of these VCUs 

(4420 and 4440) would be crossed by Alternatives 2 and 3. The Tonka thinning project is scheduled to be 

implemented in 2016 and would impact about 1,050 acres in VCU 4370 and 4390; VCU 4370 would be 

crossed by the Center-South Alternative. The Tonka project has undergone NEPA review; the Kake and 

Portage Bay projects have not yet undergone NEPA review.

Road Activities on NFS Lands

Ongoing road maintenance will continue throughout the VCUs crossed by the proposed KPI alternatives 

as funding becomes available. These activities could include road grading, drainage structure 

replacement, decommissioning of unauthorized roads, and other ground-disturbing activities that will 

cause short-term sediment increases. All road maintenance activities would be required to implement 

Forest Plan standards and guidelines, including R10 and National Core BMPs to ensure water quality 

standards are achieved.

The Petersburg Ranger District completed their Access and Travel Management (ATM) Plan in 2009 

(USDA Forest Service 2009a, 2009b). The ATM provides direction and requirements for road storage, 

decommissioning, motorized trail development, and other roadwork, which would be implemented in the 

foreseeable future based on the availability of funding. The maintenance and reconditioning of NFS 

roads in the project area may occur before, during, and after the KPI Project analysis. This work is done 

through separate service contracts to reduce the backlog of deferred maintenance, recondition roads to 

comply with R10 and National Core BMPs, and maintain the existing infrastructure for National Forest 

Management activities. 

Kake Access Project

The Western Federal Lands Highway Division of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and 

Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities (ADOT&PF) initiated the Kake Access Project 

EIS in January 2013. A draft purpose and need prepared for this project in June 2013 is currently being 

revised. In addition, FHWA and ADOT&PF are undertaking a transportation demand planning study to 

identify the level of demand for a road between Kake and Petersburg. The study will include public 

involvement and a statistically valid survey of residents in Kake, Kupreanof, and Petersburg to gauge 

support for the project. Following completion of the transportation study in 2015, FHWA and 

ADOT&PF will proceed with the NEPA process, with a Draft EIS expected to be available in 2016 

(FHWA 2014). 

Given the current status of the Kake Access Project, it is not possible at this time to identify what 

potential road corridor, if any, would be built. Any of the proposed Kake Access Project road alternatives 

that have been considered to date would affect all of the resources evaluated in this EIS. There would be 

direct effects from ground disturbance, as well as from changes in access. It is not possible to fully assess 

the potential cumulative effects of a reasonably foreseeable Kake Access Project in conjunction with the 

KPI Project, but in all cases these impacts would likely be greater than those associated with the KPI 

Project. These potential impacts are expected to be evaluated in the Draft EIS for the Kake Access 

Project, which is expected to be available in 2016.
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Restoration Activities in the Project Area

In addition to the road maintenance activities described above, ongoing restoration and habitat 

improvement projects are proposed within the vicinity of the KPI Project alternatives. These projects 

include wildlife habitat restoration projects (e.g., young-growth thinning projects to improve deer habitat)

(USDA Forest Service 2013c).

Wildlife habitat improvement projects located within the VCUs crossed by the KPI Project include the 

Mitkof, Tonka, and Central Kupreanof restoration projects. The Mitkof project would restore/treat about 

300 acres of young-growth forests within VCUs that would be crossed by the Northern and Center-South 

Alternatives (implementation is expected to occur in 2014). The Tonka project would restore/treat about 

90 acres in 2015 and 284 acres in 2016 (both within VCUs that would be crossed by the Center-South 

Alternative). The Central Kupreanof Stewardship Implementation Wildlife Vegetation Improvement 

Project would restore/treat about 104 acres within VCUs that would be crossed by both Northern 

Alternatives.

Incomplete and Unavailable Information

Much of the Tongass National Forest resource data resides in an electronic database formatted for GIS. 

The Forest uses GIS software to assist in the analyses of these data. GIS data are available in tabular 

(numerical) and map formats. For this EIS, all the maps, and most of the numerical analyses, are based 

on GIS resource data supported by field inventories.

There is incomplete knowledge about many of the relationships and conditions of wildlife, fish, forests, 

climate change, jobs, and communities. The science concerning the ecology, inventory, and management 

of a large forest area is complex and developing. The biology of wildlife species prompts questions about 

population dynamics and habitat relationships. However, the basic data and central relationships are 

sufficiently well-established in the respective sciences for the deciding official to make a reasoned choice 

between the alternatives, and to adequately assess and disclose the possible adverse environmental 

consequences.

Community Profiles

The primary social and economic area of influence for the KPI Project includes those communities 

located in close proximity to the project area and communities whose residents use the project area for 

subsistence, recreation, and other activities. The communities that fall into these categories are Kake, 

Petersburg, and Kupreanof. Unless otherwise noted, most of the information presented in the following 

community profiles is from the Alaska Department of Commerce Community and Economic 

Development’s (ADCCED) Alaska Community Database (ADCCED 2013), the 2008 Forest Plan EIS 

(USDA Forest Service 2008c), and the NOAA Alaska Fisheries Science Center’s (AFSC) Community 

Profiles for North Pacific Fisheries – Alaska (AFSC 2013).

Kake

The city of Kake is located on west Kupreanof Island, along Keku Strait, 38 air miles northwest of 

Petersburg. Tlingit Alaska Natives villages and fishing camps in the Kake area pre-date non-Alaska 

Native explorations of Southeast Alaska. Historically, Tlingit people of the Kake (Keex) Kwaan1 claimed 

 1 “Keex” in Tlingit is pronounced similar to “Kake” in English. “Kwaan” is a Tlingit socio-geographical term 

meaning “inhabitants of,” literally a contraction of the Tlingit verb “to dwell.” It is most commonly used to refer to a 

geographic region consisting of those areas controlled by clans or house groups residing in a single winter village or 

several closely situated winter villages (AFSC 2013).
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Environment and Effects ▪ 3-7

2,003,000 acres of territory, including the upper halves of Kuiu, Kupreanof, and Mitkof Island, the 

eastern shore of Baranof Island and the southern shore of Admiralty Island. The arrival of early European 

explorers and traders resulted in occasional confrontations between Native Tlingits and foreigners. 

Escalating tensions led to the U.S. Navy shelling several Kake villages and destroying their homes, boats, 

and stored foods. The inhabitants of multiple villages subsequently consolidated at the current site of 

Kake, with further consolidation of Kake villages taking place in the 1880s. A government school and 

store and Society of Friends mission were established in Kake in 1891. A post office followed in 1904

and the first cannery was built near Kake in 1912. Today, Kake remains a primarily Tlingit village with a 

fishing, logging, and subsistence lifestyle. Traditional customs are important to the Kake people. The 

world’s largest totem pole stands on a bluff overlooking town (AFSC 2013). Kake is a First Class City 

and is not located in an organized borough. 

Kake had a total estimated population of 598 in 2012, approximately 112 or 16 percent fewer residents 

than 12 years earlier in 2000 (Alaska DOL 2013a, 2013b). More than two-thirds (68 percent) of the 

population in Kake identified as Alaska Native in the 2010 Census, with just 17 percent identifying as 

White (U.S. Census Bureau 2011a).

Kake’s economy has been traditionally based on forest and fisheries resources and subsistence activities. 

According to a survey conducted by the AFSC in 2011, community leaders indicated that this continues 

to be the case with the current economy dependent on logging, fishing, ecotourism, and sport hunting and 

fishing. Subsistence remains an essential part of the local way of life, with deer, halibut, salmon, and 

black sea weed identified as the most important subsistence resources (AFSC 2013). Shellfish, bear, 

waterfowl, and berries are also important food sources. The city of Kake, school district, and Kake Tribal 

Corporation are the largest employers in the community. 

In 2010, 45 Kake residents held commercial fishing permits and 36 residents held crew member licenses

(Alaska Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission [ACFEC] 2011). Between 2000 and 2010, 

participation levels by Kake residents were highest in commercial salmon fisheries; participation levels 

were also relatively high in fisheries for halibut, groundfish, and crab. Community leaders indicated in a 

recent survey by AFSC that current challenges for Kake’s fishing economy include high costs of 

electricity, fuel, and labor, and shipping constraints for delivering fresh products to market (AFSC 2013).

Petersburg

Petersburg is located on the northwest end of Mitkof Island, where the Wrangell Narrows meet Frederick 

Sound. Formerly the city of Petersburg, the community of Petersburg is now part of the larger Petersburg 

Borough, which includes the former city and the rest of Mitkof Island, part of Kupreanof Island, and the 

mainland coastline north to Endicott Arm. The city of Petersburg was dissolved in January 2013 and 

became part of the new home-rule Petersburg Borough at this time. Petersburg Borough is discussed 

further in the Socioeconomics section of this chapter. The following profile focuses on the community of 

Petersburg, rather than the larger Borough area.

Tlingit Indians from Kake historically used the north end of Mitkof Island as a summer fish camp, with 

some reportedly living year-round at the site. Petersburg was named after Norwegian immigrant Peter 

Buschmann, who arrived in the late 1890s. By 1900, he had built the Icy Strait Packing Company 

cannery, a sawmill, and a dock. The City incorporated in 1910, and by 1920, 600 people lived in 

Petersburg year-round. Alaska’s first shrimp processor, Alaska Glacier Seafoods, was founded in 

Petersburg in 1916, and a cold storage plant was built in 1926. 

Today, Petersburg is one of Alaska’s major fishing communities. Petersburg has one of the largest homebased halibut fleets in Alaska, and is also well-known for shrimp, crab, salmon, herring, and other fish 

products. Subsistence remains an important part of the local way of life. The community maintains a 

mixture of Tlingit and Scandinavian history and is known as “Little Norway.” 
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Petersburg had a total estimated population of 2,972 in 2012, approximately 252 or 8 percent fewer 

residents than 12 years earlier in 2000 (Alaska Department of Labor DOL 2013a, 2013b). According to 

the 2010 Census, the population of Petersburg was primarily White and accounted for 78 percent of the 

total population. Alaska Natives accounted for about 8 percent of the total population (U.S. Census 

Bureau 2011a).

Petersburg’s economy has been historically based on commercial fishing and timber harvest. The city is 

one of the top-ranking ports in the U.S. based on the quality and value of fish landed. In 2010, 468

Petersburg residents held commercial fishing permits and 408 residents held crew member licenses 

(ACFEC 2011). Several processors operate cold storage, canneries, and custom packing services. 

Petersburg remains, to a lesser degree, a supply and service center for logging camps and smaller 

communities. Independent sportsmen and tourists utilize local charter boats, outfitter and guide trips, and

lodges. There is no deep-water port to accommodate large cruise ships. Smaller cruise ships stop

overnight in Petersburg. Activities pursued by cruise ship passengers include flight seeing via fixed-wing 

and helicopter, trips up Petersburg Creek (within the Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness) 

by boat, Norwegian dinner and dance performances, and shopping. 

Kupreanof

The city of Kupreanof is located across the Wrangell Narrows from Petersburg, on the northeast shore of 

Kupreanof Island. Originally known as West Petersburg, the town was homesteaded around the turn of 

the century. In 1911, the Knudsen brothers established the first business in town, a small sawmill that 

produced barrels for salted fish. The Yukon Fur Farm was established in the early 1920s. The farm 

initially raised foxes, but soon shifted to mink and became the first mink farm in Alaska. During the 

1920s, more than 100 people resided in West Petersburg, with residents operating a small store and a gaff 

hook factory. Businesses in the 1930s and 1940s included a small ship repair facility, an outboard motor 

shop, commercial logging, and a clam cannery. 

Although the Knudsen Mill and Yukon Fur Farm continued to operate until the 1960s, the population fell 

during the 1950s, dropping from 60 in 1950 to 26 in 1960. The population has since remained stable. 

The community changed its name to Kupreanof when it incorporated as a second class city in 1975.

Kupreanof had a total estimated population of 34 in 2012, approximately 11 or 48 percent more residents 

than 12 years earlier in 2000 (Alaska DOL 2013a, 2013b). According to the 2010 Census, the population 

of Kupreanof was primarily White, with 24 of the 27 residents (89 percent) counted in the Census 

identified as White (U.S. Census Bureau 2011a).

Kupreanof is a small closely knit non-Native community. All of the homes are built on the waterfront; 

there are no roads. Residents use skiffs to travel to Petersburg for schooling, goods and services. The 

majority of Kupreanof’s working residents are self-employed although some commute by boat to jobs in 

Petersburg. Subsistence and recreation uses of resources around Kupreanof supplement household 

incomes; deer, salmon, halibut, shrimp and crab are favorites. In 2010, no residents held commercial 

fishing permits (ACFEC 2011). Although located within the boundary for the recently formed Petersburg 

Borough, the city of Kupreanof continues to exist as a separate municipality (Miller 2012).2

 The City has 

no full time staff, few services and no public utilities. 

 2 http://juneauempire.com/local/2012-12-18/petersburg-borough-approved-voters
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Soils and Geology ▪ 3-9

Soils and Geology

Introduction

The soils and geology section provides an assessment of the current condition of the project area and the 

potential effects of implementing the proposed action and the alternatives on these resources. The 

analysis concentrates on the potential effects associated with construction and operation of the proposed 

transmission line, as well as the potential impacts of not proceeding with the project (i.e., the no action

alternative).

Analysis Area 

The analysis area for direct, indirect and cumulative effects to soils and geology is the disturbance 

footprint for each alternative. The following affected environment discussion presents separate 

discussions for each analysis area. Each analysis area is identified by its alternative numbers (e.g., the 

analysis area for Alternative 2 is identified as Analysis Area 2).

Potential direct and indirect effects to soils include temporary construction disturbance and other longterm soil disturbance that could result from construction and operation of the proposed transmission line 

and associated shovel trails and temporary access spurs. The unit of measure for the soil analysis is the 

number of acres of soil disturbance. 

The spatial boundary for cumulative effects on soil resources is the analysis area. The temporal extent of 

effects to soil is decades or longer due to the length of time it takes for soils to recover and regenerate 

vegetative cover after clearing.

Methodology 

The primary source for soil data used in this analysis is the Tongass National Forest Soil Inventory 

(Southeast Alaska GIS Library 2010). Potential effects associated with landslides, slopes greater than 72

percent, past harvest, and temporary shovel trail, matting panel, and temporary access spur-related 

disturbance were analyzed using GIS spatial data maintained by the Forest Service. 

Soil Disturbance

Natural soil disturbances include areas where soil erosion has resulted from overland flow, stream bank 

erosion, windthrow, and colluvial activity. These areas are estimated to cover about 2 percent of the 

somewhat poorly drained, moderately well-drained, and well drained mineral soils (drainage class 3, 4, 

and 5) in each analysis area. 

Soil disturbance from past log yarding activities is estimated on the Tongass National Forest by assuming 

that 3 percent of the soils in harvest areas have been disturbed as a result of these activities. This 3 

percent estimate is based on soil disturbance monitoring that was conducted in the 1990s on Prince of 

Wales Island and in the Ketchikan area to determine the amount of detrimental soil condition that is 

incurred during harvest activities (Landwehr and Nowacki 1999). This monitoring indicated that average 

soil disturbance in harvest areas using ground-based yarding or partial suspension is 3 percent, and 

average soil disturbance in harvest areas using full suspension is 2 percent. Past harvest systems used in 

the analysis area are unknown and, as a result, the following analysis assumes an average of 3 percent 

disturbance to estimate cumulative detrimental soil conditions from past harvest.
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Landslides

Forest Service landslide inventories are based on multiple sets of historic air photos. For this analysis, the 

highest elevation of each Forest Service GIS landslide polygon was identified as the initiation point. 

While it is possible that headscarps may have migrated upslope, previous investigations in forests of 

Southeast Alaska indicate that most initiation zones have a well-defined headwall (Johnson et al. 2000). 

This method of identifying the initiation point from the highest elevation is a method that has been used 

by the Forest Service for other studies on the Tongass National Forest (Landwehr 1998). 

Affected Environment 

The KPI project area and the Soils and Geology analysis area are located on the Petersburg Ranger 

District on north Kupreanof and Mitkof Islands in Southeast Alaska. Within the project area, elevation 

ranges from sea level to about 1,100 feet. Annual precipitation ranges from about 106 inches with 97 

inches of snow in Petersburg to 54 inches with 44 inches of snow in Kake (ADCCED 2012). 

Ecological Subsections

The ecological subsections located within the analysis area are the Wrangell Narrows Metasediments, 

Duncan Canal Till Lowlands, Sumner Strait Volcanics, and Kake Volcanics. Descriptions of these 

ecological subsections are included in the Soils and Geology Resource Report prepared for this project 

(Tetra Tech 2014a).

Geology

Geology of the KPI project area primarily consists of sedimentary and volcanic rocks, and 

metamorphosed and deformed equivalents of these strata, with a minor amount of plutonic rocks (Gehrels 

and Berg 1992). Heavy Pleistocene glaciations rounded the hills and mountains of sedimentary and 

volcanic rocks to gentle slopes in many places and carved out broad U-shaped valleys. Compact glacial 

tills and glaciomarine sediments remain along coastal lowlands.

Karst

Karst is a comprehensive term that applies to the unique topography, surface and subsurface drainage 

systems, and landforms that develop by the action of water on soluble rock (primarily limestone and 

marble (carbonates) in Southeast Alaska. The dissolution of the rock results in the development of 

internal drainage, producing sinking streams (streams that sink into the stream bed or karst features), 

closed depressions, sinkholes, collapsed channels, micro-relief karst features (e.g., karren), and caves.

The geology and climate of Southeast Alaska are particularly favorable for karst development. Extensive 

areas of very pure carbonate (greater than 95 percent calcium carbonate [CaCO3]; Maas et al. 1992), 

approximately 537,588 acres (840 square miles), are found within the boundaries of the Tongass National 

Forest. This includes carbonate bedrock on private, state, and federal lands. Because of fractures in the 

carbonates, high annual precipitation, and peatlands adjacent to the carbonate bedrock, karst has 

developed, to varying extent, within all carbonate blocks. The Tongass National Forest contains the 

largest known concentration of limestone dissolution caves in Alaska.

According to the Forest Service karst GIS database, 2,685 acres of karst have been identified on 

Kupreanof Island. Less than 5 percent of these karsts (60 acres) exist within the three analysis areas. The 

acres that are within the analysis areas are located along the 6040 and 6040.1 roads on the west side of 

Kupreanof Island, near Hamilton Bay (Figure SOIL-1). These karst areas are considered low 

vulnerability karsts lands. Low vulnerability karst lands are those areas where resource damage threats 
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Figure SOIL-1. Karst Rock Locations

 
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associated with land management activities are not likely to be appreciably greater than those posed by 

similar activities on non-carbonate substrate.

Minerals

Volcanogenic massive sulfide deposits occur along both sides of Duncan Canal on Kupreanof Island (Still 

et al. 2002; Berg and Grybeck 1980). Review of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) database of 

descriptions of mines, prospects, and mineral occurrences in Alaska (USGS 2008) indicates that there 

were lode claims in the area in the 1970s. Volcanogenic massive sulfide deposits are also suspected near 

the headwaters of Big John Creek, near peak 1908 (Still et al. 2002) where load claims are known to have 

existed in the 1980s (Causey 2007). It is unknown if there are current mineral claims in the area; 

however, there is no plan of operations on file with Petersburg Ranger District, as would be required for 

active operations beyond minor prospecting.

Other mines, prospects, and mineral occurrences identified in or near the analysis area include a very low 

grade sedimentary uranium deposit occurring adjacent to the karst rock near Hamilton Bay; and a borrow 

pit about 0.5 mile south of the head of Portage Bay that contains metaliferous minerals (Causey 2007). 

Neither of these sites have been or are proposed to be developed for locatable mineral extraction.

There are no proposed mining operations in the area that would coincide with the KPI Project, and the 

proposed alternatives would not prevent mineral areas from being developed in the future. Therefore, 

mineral development is not addressed further in this report.

Acid Rock Drainage

As noted above, the KPI project area is known to include volcanogenic massive sulfide deposits on 

Kupreanof Island. Coldwell (2002) provided a map of the volcanogenic massive sulfide belt (see 

Appendix A of the Soils and Geology Resource Report prepared for this project). Volcanogenic massive 

sulfide deposits host metal- and sulfide-bearing minerals, such as pyrite. Exposure of sulfide minerals to 

oxidizing conditions (available water and oxygen) can result in acidic, sulfate-rich drainage (Skousen et 

al. 2000). The drainage quality is dependent on the ratio of acid-producing minerals (sulfides) to acidneutralizing minerals (alkaline carbonates) contained in the host rock. In general, sulfide-rich and 

carbonate-poor materials pose a risk for generation of acidic drainage, commonly referred to as acid rock 

drainage (ARD) (Skousen et al. 2000).

Soils

Soil Drainage and Productivity

Soil nutrients tend to be confined to the upper soil horizons as suggested by the shallow rooting of 

vegetation and the lack of parent material influence on nutrient status in Southeast Alaska soils (Heilman 

and Gass 1972). In Southeast Alaska, well-drained soils tend to support highly productive timber stands 

while poorly drained soils support less productive timber and can be dominated by shrubs or wetland 

areas (USDA Forest Service 2001a). Five classes of soil drainage are found in the three analysis areas: 

well drained, moderately well drained, somewhat poorly drained, poorly drained, and very poorly drained. 

The drainage class is listed for each SMU as well as for each soil in each SMU in Appendix B to the Soils 

and Geology Resource Report prepared for this project (Tetra Tech 2014a). 

The Region 10 (R10) Soil Quality Standards identify soil productivity as the inherent capacity of the soil 

to support the growth of specified plants, plant communities, or a sequence of plant communities (FSM 

2500, R-10 Supplement 2500-2006-1). Several variables play a factor in forest productivity such as soil 

disturbance, soil depth, bedrock geology, surficial organic layers, hydrology, and slope (Banner et al. 

2005). Better drained sites exhibit higher productivity (Banner et al. 2005). Soils are churned up when 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Soils and Geology ▪ 3-13

trees fall due to wind (windthrow), which allows water to percolate through the soil. As a result, 

productive forests thrive on wind-exposed sites (USDA Forest Service 1993). The most productive sites 

are well drained, and there are significant differences in productivity based on slope and soil drainage 

(Banner et al. 2005). 

Site productivity and successional trends depend on organic matter dynamics, including rates of forest 

humus and peat accumulation (Banner et al 2005). Natural disturbance (such as landslides, windthrow, 

and fluvial activity) may slow down the rate of organic matter accumulation (Banner et al. 2005). The 

disturbance of soil accelerates the rate of decomposition of organic materials, churns up mineral soils to 

the surface, and keeps the soil from forming hardpan (Bormann et al. 1995). The organic matter would 

continue to build up without regular disturbance, causing the tree roots to be confined to the thick organic 

horizon, and eventually may result in lower site productivity (Banner et al. 2005). 

Well-Drained and Moderately Well-Drained Soils

Well-drained and moderately well drained soils are at higher risk for surface erosion and mass wasting 

than the poorly drained and very poorly drained soils due to textural composition and landscape position 

(USDA Forest Service 1993). Well-drained soils have intermediate water holding capacity. The welldrained soils are generally classified as Spodosols, found on slopes, and promote productivity (USDA 

Forest Service 1993). Moderately well-drained soils are wet close enough to the surface or long enough 

that planting and harvesting operations may be adversely affected unless artificial drainage is provided. 

Moderately well-drained soils commonly have a layer with low hydraulic conductivity, a wet layer 

relatively high in the soil profile, additions of water by seepage, or some combination of these (USDA 

Forest Service 1993). Moderately well-drained soils tend to have high productivity similar to welldrained soils (USDA Forest Service 1993) and are found on moderate to steep slopes. An estimated 27 

percent, 28 percent, and 44 percent of Analysis Areas 2, 3, and 4 contain well-drained soils, respectively 

(Tetra Tech 2014a).

Somewhat Poorly Drained, Poorly Drained, and Very Poorly Drained Soils

Somewhat poorly drained soils are soils that are wet close to the surface or for a long enough period of 

time that optimal upland vegetation growth is restricted. Somewhat poorly drained soils commonly have 

a combination of a layer with low hydraulic conductivity, a wet layer high in the soil profile, and/or 

additions of water through seepage (USDA Forest Service 1993). Somewhat poorly drained soils have 

moderate productivity capable of supporting upland and some wetland vegetation species. Somewhat 

poorly drained soils include the Mitkof soil series. An estimated 3 percent, 8 percent, and 7 percent of 

Analysis Areas 2, 3, and 4 contain somewhat poorly drained soils, respectively (Tetra Tech 2014a).

Poorly drained soils are commonly wet at or near the surface during a considerable part of the year. 

Poorly drained conditions are caused by a saturated zone, a layer with low hydraulic conductivity, 

seepage, or a combination of these (NRCS 2010; USDA Forest Service 1993). Poorly drained soils tend 

to have moderate to low productivity capable of supporting forested wetland vegetation and are found on 

moderate to steep slopes (NRCS 2010; USDA Forest Service 1993). An estimated 20 percent, 17 percent, 

and 15 percent of Analysis Areas 2, 3, and 4 contain poorly drained soils, respectively (Tetra Tech 

2014a).

Very poorly drained soils are completely saturated to the surface throughout most of the year and often 

for the entire year. These soils are often organic soils found in wetlands but can also be mineral soils in 

complex with organic soils that are shallow to bedrock on moderate to steep slopes. The majority of very 

poorly drained soils comprise organic soils. These soils typically have low productivity and support 

forested wetlands, emergent sedge, tall sedge, moss muskeg, and alpine muskeg (NRCS 2010). An 

estimated 48 percent, 47 percent, and 35 percent of Analysis Areas 2, 3, and 4 contain poorly drained 

soils, respectively (Tetra Tech 2014a).
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Soil Disturbance

Surface Erosion

R10 standards and guidelines define erosion as the detachment and transport of individual soil particles or 

aggregates of particles by ice, wind, water, or gravity (FSM R-10 Supplement 2500-2005-1, effective 

May 5, 2006). Native soils are protected from surface erosion by an organic surface horizon and roots of 

vegetation. Mineral soils are susceptible to erosion when exposed. Soils with thinner organic mats are 

more easily disturbed than soils with thicker organic mats. The rate of erosion depends primarily on the 

amount and intensity of rainfall, vegetative ground cover, erodibility of the soil, slope length, and 

steepness of slope. Windthrow activities, soil creep, colluvial activity, areas of overland flow, and stream 

bank failures on steep V-notches are some of the chronic erosion features that are present naturally across 

the KPI project area. Vegetation clearing (such as timber harvest) and the use of shovel trails and 

temporary access spurs may increase the erosion rate by disturbing the organic mat or exposing mineral 

soil. Soil disturbances from naturally occurring events, such as windthrow, and management-related 

activities are discussed for each analysis area in the existing soil disturbances section, below.

Soil Compaction

Compaction of mineral soils across much of Southeast Alaska is often limited due to soil saturation, high 

concentration of course fragments, course textured soils, and the high concentrations of organic matter 

present in the upper mineral soil horizons. Many soils have a thick organic surface horizon, and in some 

cases, soils are comprised entirely of poorly drained organic matter in various stages of decomposition. 

The high amounts of organic material present in mineral soil horizons, and in organic surfaces overlying 

mineral horizons, combined with in situ roots and slash, provide an adequate buffer against compaction 

on most soils. The organic surfaces, roots, and slash often act like a sponge that absorbs compacting 

forces and rebound after the force is removed.

R10 standards and guidelines define compaction as a decrease in porosity and increase in strength and 

bulk density as a result of weight and vibration (FSM R-10 Supplement 2500-2005-1, effective May 5, 

2006). Increasing soil bulk density more than 15 percent over undisturbed levels is considered 

detrimental. Forest roads compact the soil, but in this case, compaction is desirable for the stability of the 

road. Past logging activities have not yielded increases in soil bulk density as long as they have followed 

R10 and National Core BMPs.

Existing Soil Disturbance on NFS Lands 

The soils on NFS lands in the three analysis areas are mostly in pristine condition. Some soils, however,

have been disturbed due to forest management, landslides, and naturally occurring disturbances as 

identified in Table SOIL-1. Soil disturbances associated with existing road construction are based on a 

40-foot wide corridor. Disturbance associated with existing NFS roads is not considered detrimental 

because the underlying soils are taken out of productivity (FSM R-10 Supplement 2500-2005-1 effective 

May 5, 2006). The area estimated to have natural soil disturbances, such as windthrow and stream bank 

erosion, is based on the assumption that 2 percent of the areas with well drained and moderately well 

drained soils have natural disturbance. Poorly drained and very poorly drained soils are not included in 

this estimate since these soils tend to be in depositional areas and due to the inherent erosion protection 

provided by their fibric material and vegetative component.

Analysis Area 2 

There are approximately 710 acres of NFS lands within Analysis Area 2. Approximately 93 acres of the 

NFS lands in this area have been harvested in the past. Management activities on NFS lands within 

Analysis Area 2 have resulted in total estimated soil disturbance of 49 acres, about 7 percent of the total 

analysis area (Table SOIL-1). This total includes disturbance from past log yarding activities (3 acres), 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Soils and Geology ▪ 3-15

decommissioned/ temporary/undetermined road (43 acres), existing rock pits (3 acres), and landslides 

from past harvest (0.2 acre). There were no landslides due to road construction within this analysis area. 

Analysis Area 2 also includes 0.1 mile of existing NFS and State roads with a total estimated disturbance 

of 0.4 acre (assuming an average disturbance width of 40 feet) (Table SOIL-1). 

Naturally occurring soil disturbances have also occurred in Analysis Area 2, with an estimated 5 acres of natural 

soil disturbance. No naturally occurring landslides are located within this analysis area (Table SOIL-1). 

Table SOIL-1. Existing Soil Disturbances on NFS Lands within the Analysis Area by 

Alternative

Soil Disturbance Type (acres) Analysis Area 2 Analysis Area 3 Analysis Area 4

Management Related Soil Disturbances

Total NFS Acres 710 710 665

 Past log yarding activities1/ 3 3 6

 Other Existing Roads2/ 43 43 67

 Existing NFS and State Road3/ 0.4 0.4 1.8

 Existing rock pits 3 3 7

 Landslides from past harvest4/ 0.2 0.2 0

Total Soil Disturbances from Management 50 50 82

Total Detrimental Soil Conditions from 

Management5/ 49 49 80

Natural Soil Disturbances

 Naturally occurring landslides 0 0 0.6

 Natural soil disturbances6/ 5 5 7

Total Natural Soil Disturbances 5 5 7

Total Existing Soil Disturbance 55 55 89

Notes: Totals may not sum due to rounding.

1/ Assumes 3 percent disturbance of all past harvest areas (Landwehr and Nowacki 1999).

2/ This category includes miles of decommissioned/temporary/undetermined roads within the analysis area, assuming a 40-foot 

width. Other types of road in the analysis area not included in this table are those classified as “Private”, “Unknown”, and 

“Local”.

3/ Estimated effects are based on miles of existing NFS and State road located within the analysis area assuming a 40-foot width.

4/ Landslides are assumed to be associated with past harvest if the initiation point of the landslide (or the highest elevation point) 

falls within a past harvest unit (Landwehr 1998) and the slide occurred after harvest.

5/ This total does not include NFS and State roads because the underlying soils are taken out of productivity (FSM R-10 

Supplement 2500-2005-1 effective May 5, 2006).

6/ Defined as 2 percent of drainage class 3 and greater for soils on NFS lands within the analysis area. 

Analysis Area 3

There are approximately 710 acres of NFS lands within Analysis Area 3. Approximately 93 acres of the 

NFS lands have been harvested in the past. Management activities in NFS lands within Analysis Area 3 

have resulted in total estimated soil disturbance of 49 acres, about 7 percent of the total analysis area 

(Table SOIL-1). This total includes disturbance from past log yarding activities (3 acres), 

decommissioned/ temporary/undetermined road (43 acres), existing rock pits (3 acres), and landslides 

from past harvest (0.2 acre). There were no landslides due to road construction within this analysis area. 

Analysis Area 3 also includes 0.1 mile of existing NFS and State roads with a total estimated disturbance 

of 0.4 acre (assuming an average disturbance width of 40 feet) (Table SOIL-1). Naturally occurring soil 

disturbances have also occurred in Analysis Area 3, with an estimated 5 acres of natural soil disturbance. 

No naturally occurring landslides are located within this Analysis Area (Table SOIL-1). 

Analysis Area 4

There are approximately 665 acres of NFS lands within Analysis Area 4. Approximately 208 acres of the 

NFS lands have been harvested in the past. Management activities in NFS lands within Analysis Area 4 
3 Environment and Effects

3-16 ▪ Chapter 3 – Soils and Geology Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

have resulted in total estimated soil disturbance of 81 acres, about 12.2 percent of the total analysis area 

(Table SOIL-1). This total includes disturbance from past log yarding activities (6 acres), 

decommissioned/ temporary/undetermined road (67 acres), and existing rock pits (7 acres). There were 

no landslides from past harvest or road construction in this analysis area. Analysis Area 4 also includes 

0.4 mile of existing NFS and State roads with a total estimated disturbance of 1.8 acres (assuming an 

average disturbance width of 40 feet) (Table SOIL-1). Naturally occurring soil disturbances have also 

occurred in Analysis Area 4, with an estimated 0.6 acre associated with two naturally occurring landslides 

and an estimated 7 acres of natural soil disturbance (Table SOIL-1).

Mass Movement Index

MMI classes are used to group SMUs (Soil Map Units) that have similar properties relative to the stability 

of natural slopes. Slope gradient is the primary site factor determining the stability of slopes; however, 

soil type and soil drainage class may also play a role in specific locations. There are four MMI classes of 

soil: MMI 1 through MMI 4, with MMI 4 being the least stable. The majority of soils in the three 

analysis areas contain MM1 and MM2 soils, with an estimated 29 acres and 37 acres of Analysis Areas 2 

and 3 and Analysis Area 4, respectively, containing MM3 or MM4 soils (Tetra Tech 2014a).

Landslides 

Many slopes in Southeast Alaska are prone to landslides due to the steep gradient, shallow soils, and 

coarse texture (Swanston 1969). A landslide inventory was completed by the Forest Service on the 

Tongass National Forest using aerial photography. Portions of two landslides were found within Analysis 

Area 4 and a portion of one landslide was found within Analysis Areas 2 and 3 (Table SOIL-2). Each 

landslide was associated with the MMI class where it was initiated. All three landslides were debris 

avalanches, none of the landslides were road related; one was harvest related and the other two were 

initiated in productive old-growth forest (POG). 

Table SOIL-2. Mapped Landslides Intersecting the Analysis Area

Landslide 

Number

Year of 

Occurrence Type1/

Initiated 

in MMI2/

Analysis 

Area

Landslide Acres in 

Analysis Area

Total Landslide 

Acres

P0065 1990 POG3/ 2 4 0.14 2.8

P0198 1990 Harvest 1 2,3 0.18 1.4

P0210 1960 POG3/ 3 4 0.44 7.8

Notes:

Harvest = previously harvested area

POG = Productive Old Growth forest. 

1/ Forest type where the landslide initiated. 

2/ MMI Class where landslide initiated.

3/ POG is generally defined as old-growth forest capable of producing at least 20 cubic feet of wood fiber per acre per year, or 

having greater than 8,000 board feet per acre. 

Only three landslides comprising less than 1 percent of each analysis area were identified, over 80 percent 

of the soils within each analysis area are low hazard class (MMI 1), and there would be no vegetation 

clearing on slopes greater than 72 percent. Two of the three landslides occurring within the project area 

initiated on steep slopes well above the corridor with their debris flow track or debris field crossing the 

proposed right of way. The other landslide, P0198, initiated adjacent to a quarry within the proposed 

corridor on more gentle slopes. Given the low occurrence of landslides within the project area, the 

predominantly low hazard class lands affected, and the fact that the three existing landslides in the 

analysis area would be spanned by the transmission line, the risk of project-related landslides in each 

analysis area is minimal and potential impacts to landslides are not evaluated further in this analysis.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Soils and Geology ▪ 3-17

Environmental Effects 

Effects Common to All Alternatives 

The construction-phase activities that would impact soil and geologic resources include clearing, 

excavation, trenching, grading, and heavy vehicle traffic. Disturbed surfaces, concentrated flows, and 

increased runoff may lead to soil erosion. The use of shovel trails and temporary access spurs would 

compact soils. Soil disturbance would be limited by using existing roads, where feasible, implementing 

erosion control plans, and restoring/revegetating temporarily disturbed areas.

Following construction, soil conditions would stabilize over time with the implementation of the

mitigation measures identified below. The amount of time this would take would depend in part on the 

mitigation measures used on site during and following construction, as well as local environmental 

conditions. Following restoration, the environmental impact during the operations phase would largely be 

limited to soil erosion induced by occasional vehicle traffic on existing unpaved roads. This would be 

controlled by road maintenance and adherence to the speed limits established for these roads.

Geology

Each action alternative would require some disturbance on mapped low vulnerability karst lands located 

near Hamilton Bay (Figure SOIL-1). Disturbance would include temporary access spurs, structure 

installation, and vegetation clearing along or near existing NFS roads. Alternatives 2 and 3 each include 

about 51 structures on karst rocks, requiring about 13 temporary access spurs (0.25 acre disturbance). 

Alternative 4 includes about 72 structures on karst rocks, requiring about 25 temporary access spurs (0.54 

acre disturbance). As these are low vulnerability karst lands, resource damage threats associated with 

land management activities are not likely to be appreciably greater than those posed by similar activities 

on non-carbonate substrate. No special measures are required for activities on low vulnerability karst. 

All alternatives have the potential to encounter sulfide rich/low carbonate rock, especially within 

volcanogenic massive sulfide deposits (Tetra Tech 2014a, Appendix A). In these areas, there is a 

potential for acid rock drainage to develop as a result of exposing the sulfide minerals to air and water 

during foundation construction for the proposed transmission line structures, or where the rock is used as 

backfill for structures. If ARD potential rock is disturbed, a Forest Service geologist may be consulted to 

evaluate the risk of ARD and determine monitoring and mitigation requirements, as necessary. However, 

due to the small areas expected to be excavated for structure foundations, ARD is not expected to 

develop.

Soils

The loss of soil productivity on NFS lands is often evaluated by acres of detrimental soil conditions due 

to soil disturbance, displacement, and loss by alternative. For many projects, R10 Soil Quality Standards 

require that the total acreage of all detrimental soil conditions should not exceed 15 percent of the total 

acreage within the activity; however, transmission line corridors are managed as facilities and are, 

therefore, excluded from this standard (Landwehr 2014). 

Table SOIL-3 identifies detrimental soil disturbance on NFS lands for each alternative for comparison. 

Detrimental soil disturbance from vegetation clearing within the project disturbance corridor is assumed 

to be similar to harvest by shovel yarding. Therefore, soil disturbance from vegetation clearing within the 

right-of-way is estimated assuming that 3 percent of the total acres disturbed would result in detrimental 

disturbance (Landwehr and Nowacki 1999). 
3 Environment and Effects

3-18 ▪ Chapter 3 – Soils and Geology Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Table SOIL-3. Estimated Acres of Soil Disturbance on NFS Lands by Analysis Area

Type of Disturbance (acres)1/

Alternative

2 3 4

Structure Installation2/ 60.9 60.9 59.2

Shovel Trails3/ 22.8 22.8 8.0

Temporary Matting Panels4/ 0.0 0.0 0.0

Temporary Access Spurs3/ 9.2 9.2 6.1

Helicopter Pads5/ 0.4 0.4 0.3

Right-of-way Clearing6/ 16.6 16.6 15.7

Total Acres of New Detrimental Soil Conditions 109.8 109.9 89.2

Notes:

1/ Disturbance estimates by type have been adjusted to avoid counting disturbance to the same area twice.

2/ These estimates assume that 50 percent of the area within a 50-foot radius from the center of each pole would be temporarily 

disturbed during construction. 

3/ Based on an average width of 16 feet.

4/ Assumes temporary matting panels would prevent soil disturbance.

5/ Based on an average disturbance area of 16 feet by 16 feet.

6/ Based on 3 percent of the total acres cleared.

The action alternatives would result in approximately 89 to 110 acres of detrimental soil disturbance on 

NFS lands within each respective analysis area. Except for permanent facilities (poles and helicopter pad

support footings), most soil disturbance would be temporary. Periodic vegetation management and 

facility maintenance within the right-of-way would result in additional soil disturbance during operations.

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

There would be no transmission line built under this alternative and no related disturbance to soil 

conditions. Roads within the project boundary will continue to receive incidental use from hunters and 

other visitors. Landslides will continue to occur. Vegetation in harvested areas will continue to grow and 

add stability to soils on those sites. 

Cumulative Effects 

There are several projects in the vicinity of the proposed project that are either presently occurring or are 

reasonably foreseeable. These projects are described at the beginning of this chapter and include timber 

harvesting, pre-commercial and commercial thinning, road improvement/building, and wildlife habitat 

restoration. Cumulative effects of the proposed actions on long-term soil productivity are directly related 

to the amount of disturbance that occurs through time as a result of natural events, temporary road 

construction, and resource management. The No Action Alternative would not contribute to cumulative 

effects on soils resources because there would be no construction under this alternative. 

Alternative 2 – Proposed Action

Direct and Indirect Effects 

An estimated total of 110 acres of detrimental soil disturbance would occur on NFS lands under this 

alternative. An estimated 55 percent of this total (61 acres) would be associated with structure 

installation, 21 percent (23 acres) would be associated with shovel trails, and an estimated 15 percent (17 

acres) associated with right-of-way vegetation clearing (Table SOIL-3). 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Soils and Geology ▪ 3-19

Cumulative Effects

The estimated 110 acres of detrimental soil conditions expected to occur under this alternative would 

incrementally add to existing detrimental soil disturbance and that associated with other ongoing or 

reasonably foreseeable projects (Table SOIL-4). Existing detrimental soil conditions from management 

account for an estimated 49 acres within the analysis area for this alternative (Tables SOIL-1 and SOIL-4).

Table SOIL-4. Estimated Acres of Cumulative Detrimental Soil Disturbance Lands by Analysis 

Area

Detrimental Disturbance (acres)

Alternative

2 3 4

Total Existing Detrimental Soil Disturbance from Management (acres) 49 49 80

Detrimental Soil Disturbance from KPI (acres) 110 110 89

Reasonably Foreseeable Actions 

Bocephus1/ 0 0 0

Central Kupreanof and Tonka timber sales1/ 0 0 1

Detrimental soil disturbance from Reasonably Foreseeable Actions (acres) 0 0 1

Cumulative Soil Disturbance (acres) 159 159 170

Note:

1/ Assumes 3 percent detrimental soil disturbance.

There are several projects in the vicinity of the proposed project that are either presently occurring or are 

reasonably foreseeable. These projects are described at the beginning of this chapter and include timber 

harvesting, pre-commercial and commercial thinning, road improvement/building, and wildlife habitat 

restoration. One reasonably foreseeable timber sale (Bocephus) includes units that would be located within the 

analysis area for this alternative. The portions of these units within the analysis area total 2.7 acres. Assuming 

that harvest of these lands would result in detrimental soil disturbance equivalent to 3 percent of the affected 

area would result in total detrimental soil disturbance of less than 0.1 acre. Estimated total cumulative soil 

disturbance under this alternative would be 159 acres (Table SOIL-4).

Alternative 3 – Northern Route with Submarine Cable

Direct and Indirect Effects 

An estimated total of 110 acres of soil disturbance would occur under this alternative. An estimated 55

percent of this total (61 acres) would be associated with structure installation, 21 percent (23 acres) would 

be associated with shovel trails, and an estimated 15 percent (17 acres) associated with right-of-way 

vegetation clearing (Table SOIL-3). 

Cumulative Effects

The estimated 110 acres of detrimental soil conditions expected to occur under this alternative would 

incrementally add to existing detrimental soil disturbance and that associated with other ongoing or 

reasonably foreseeable projects (Table SOIL-4). Existing detrimental soil conditions from management 

account for an estimated 49 acres within the analysis area for this alternative (Tables SOIL-1 and SOIL-4). 

There are several projects in the vicinity of the proposed project that are either presently occurring or are 

reasonably foreseeable. These projects are described at the beginning of this chapter and include timber 

harvesting, pre-commercial and commercial thinning, road improvement/building, and wildlife habitat 

restoration. As with Alternative 2, an estimated 2.7 acres of the reasonably foreseeable Bocephus timber sale 

units are located within the analysis area for this alternative. Assuming that harvest of these lands would result 

in detrimental soil disturbance equivalent to 3 percent of the affected area would result in total detrimental soil 

disturbance of less than 0.1 acre. Estimated total cumulative soil disturbance under this alternative would be 

159 acres (Table SOIL-4).
3 Environment and Effects

3-20 ▪ Chapter 3 – Soils and Geology Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route

Direct and Indirect Effects 

An estimated total of 89 acres of soil disturbance would occur under this alternative. About 66 percent 

(59 acres) of this disturbance would be associated with structure installation and about 18 percent (16 

acres) would be associated with right-of-way vegetation clearing (Table SOIL-3). 

Cumulative Effects 

The estimated 89 acres of detrimental soil conditions expected to occur under this alternative would 

incrementally add to existing detrimental soil disturbance and that associated with other ongoing or 

reasonably foreseeable projects. Existing detrimental soil conditions from management account for an 

estimated 80 acres within the analysis area for this alternative (Tables SOIL-1 and SOIL-4). 

There are several projects in the vicinity of the proposed project that are either presently occurring or are 

reasonably foreseeable. These projects are described at the beginning of this chapter and include timber 

harvesting, pre-commercial and commercial thinning, road improvement/building, and wildlife habitat 

restoration. Two reasonably foreseeable timber sales (Central Kupreanof and Tonka) include units that would 

be located within the analysis area for this alternative. The portions of these units within the analysis area total 

29.7 acres. Assuming that harvest of these lands would result in detrimental soil disturbance equivalent to 3 

percent of the affected area would result in total detrimental soil disturbance of approximately 1 acre. 

Estimated total cumulative soil disturbance under this alternative would be 170 acres (Table SOIL-4).

Mitigation

The effects of the project on soils and geology would be minimized through the site-specific application 

of mitigation measures and BMPs (see Chapter 2).
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-21

Aquatic Resources

Introduction 

This section provides an assessment of the current condition of the analysis area and the potential effects 

of implementing the proposed alternatives on watershed conditions and fish. The analysis addresses the 

potential effects associated with construction and operation of the proposed electric transmission line and 

associated facilities at a finer subwatershed scale. The following analysis uses existing information from 

spatial GIS data, monitoring results, scientific literature, and other sources, as appropriate.

Direct, indirect, and cumulative effects for all affected subwatersheds are estimated using quantifiable 

measures for actual effects, as supported by the literature cited (for example, stream crossings are a 

surrogate for increased sediment). The level (magnitude and intensity) of effects is also characterized by 

descriptors that account for how measurable the effect would be, how widespread the effect is likely to 

be, and how long it is likely to last. These descriptors of effects are as follows: 

• Negligible: Effects would be undetectable or if detected, would be considered slight, detectable 

only at the site, and last less than a day. 

• Minor: Effects would be measurable, although the changes would be small, localized to the site 

or affected stream reach, and last less than a week. 

• Moderate: Effects would be measurable at the stream reach or subwatershed scale, and last 

more than a week. 

• Major: Effects would be readily measurable at the watershed scale and would last for years. 

Exceptions to these descriptors are noted as applicable, because they are not a perfect fit for all effects. 

The ability to actually measure changes in streamflow, sediment, habitat features, or other aquatic 

parameters in response to the proposed project is extremely limited due to the lack of baseline data and 

the natural range of variability of these parameters in response to climate and other factors. Nonetheless, 

sufficient information for these subwatersheds exists to proceed with a credible comparison of the 

magnitude and extent of likely effects across alternatives. 

Analysis Area 

The analysis area for direct, indirect, and cumulative effects to aquatic resources consists of the 

subwatersheds that would be crossed by one or more of the proposed action alternatives (Figure WAT-1). 

A total of 20 subwatersheds corresponding to the 6th level HUC recognized by the USGS would be 

crossed by the alternatives. Alternatives 2 and 3 would cross 13 subwatersheds and Alternative 4 would 

cross 12 subwatersheds. The subwatersheds crossed by each alternative are identified in Table WAT-1.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-22 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Figure WAT-1. Subwatershed Boundaries

 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-23

Table WAT-1. Subwatersheds Crossed by Each Alternative1/

Subwatershed Alternatives 2 & 3 Alternative 4

190102020502 x

190102021103 x

Big Creek x

Big John Bay-Frontal Rocky Pass x

Big John Creek x

Cathedral Falls Creek x x

Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell Narrows x x

Duncan Canal-Frontal Sumner Strait x

Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick Sound x

Goose Cove x

Hamilton Bay-Frontal Keku Strait x x

Headwaters Hamilton Creek x

Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound x x

Mitchell Slough x

Mitkof Island-Frontal Frederick Sound x

North Arm-Frontal Duncan Canal x

Outlet Hamilton Creek x

Sitkum Creek x x

Taylor Creek-Frontal Duncan Canal x

Twelvemile Creek x

1/ The No Action alternative assessed comparative watersheds for each Action Alternative.

Methodology 

The proposed project is expected to result in disturbance from the following project-related activities: 

structure installation, use of temporary shovel trails and matting panels, temporary access spurs, 

helicopter landing pads, and right-of-way clearing. Potential direct, indirect, and cumulative effects are 

evaluated at the subwatershed (6th level HUC) scale using the USDA Natural Resources Conservation 

Service (NRCS) Watershed Boundary Dataset (NRCS 2009). The Forest Service uses the 6th level to 

rank watershed conditions through the watershed condition classification (USDA Forest Service 2011c), 

and is in the process of transitioning to this dataset for future analyses. 

The affected watersheds were analyzed in detail, focusing on subwatershed size, occurrence of soils on 

slopes greater than 72 percent, natural and management-induced sources of disturbance, stream density, 

timber harvest history, road density, and percentage of basin containing roads. 

Data from Forest Service resource reports on other projects within the analysis area (Whitacre and Harlan 

2009; Whitacre and Lombard 2011), descriptions of roadless areas from the 2003 Tongass Forest Plan 

SEIS (USDA Forest Service 2003), and data from the Tongass GIS library were used to characterize 

analysis area subwatersheds. Field reconnaissance surveys were conducted in 2010 and 2011 and 

included mapping of Class I, II, III, and IV streams within a 300-foot-wide (150 feet either side of the 

transmission line centerline) corridor for each of the proposed action alternatives. 

District-wide road condition surveys (RCS) were used in conjunction with GIS to identify the number of 

stream crossings, number of red fish crossings, and streams requiring additional information or field 

verification. Available water quality and fish distribution data were used for overall subwatershed 

characterizations. This included data from field surveys conducted by the Forest Service for other 

projects within the analysis area. These data included fish presence or absence, fish species identification, 

and stream class and channel type. GIS queries were used to evaluate effects and compare alternatives. 

The harvest and road indicator thresholds used in the following evaluation are for analysis purposes only 

and are not prescribed by the Forest Plan. 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-24 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Stream crossing information in the RCS database included gaps in stream class and channel type 

classifications. Streams with either no class or channel type information are considered “unclassified” 

streams. None of these unclassified streams occur along the proposed alternative routes; however they 

are present within the subwatersheds and are accounted for in the subwatershed stream density and stream 

mile calculations. In most cases, classifications can be inferred from surrounding channel types and 

valley form. 

Affected Environment 

The following sections characterize the existing environment in the analysis area (see Figure WAT-1) and 

address climate and hydrology, streamflow, water quality, stream habitat, lake habitat, and fisheries.

Climate and Hydrology

A nearly constant procession of storms, originating from a semi-permanent low-pressure system, called 

the Aleutian Low, strongly influences climate in the analysis area (USDA Forest Service 2001a). 

Maritime air masses originate over the Pacific Ocean where heat and moisture are transferred from the 

warm waters to the atmosphere. This warm, moist air is transported northward into the coastal mountain 

ranges of the Alexander Archipelago. Heavy precipitation and strong winds result from the movement of 

moist air masses over topographic boundaries, and precipitation within the analysis area ranges from 

about 60 inches to 140 inches annually. Stream discharge within Southeast Alaska is predominantly 

influenced by rainfall events, with peak discharges occurring with fall and winter storms (Jones and Fahl 

1994). In the winter, spring, and early summer, snowmelt augments stream runoff, especially in 

watersheds with terrain above 1,500 feet elevation where seasonal snowpack develops.

Streamflow

USGS stations provide the only available long term streamflow records near the project. Hydrographs 

display mean monthly streamflow of a particular watershed in cubic feet per second (cfs). No active 

gages exist within the analysis area. The nearest USGS stream gage, 15087300, is located approximately 

0.5 mile east of the analysis area on Falls Creek on Mitkof Island. The Falls Creek hydrograph is, 

however, indicative of flows for streams within the analysis area because of similar elevations and 

precipitation patterns. The hydrograph shows a small snowmelt peak in the spring followed by lower 

flows in summer months when groundwater stores are depleted, with maximum flows occurring in 

conjunction with heavy rainfall in the fall and rain-on-snow events in winter months (Figure WAT-2). 

Outlet Hamilton Creek subwatershed, which is part of the analysis area, has an historical USGS stream 

gage. This stream gage, 15087570, is located on Hamilton Creek, approximately 2.9 miles upstream from 

the mouth at Hamilton Bay and 9.5 miles southeast of Kake. The hydrograph for this gage shown as 

Figure WAT-3 presents data from October 1976 to January 1996 and shows a similar seasonal pattern of

water flow to the Falls Creek hydrograph. 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-25

Figure WAT-2. Falls Creek Hydrograph Depicting Mean Monthly Flow

Figure WAT-3. Streamflow Characteristics of Hamilton Creek

Vegetation clearing can affect streamflow by altering processes that control the amount and timing of 

water delivered to streams. The direct removal of forest canopy affects rain interception (Prussian 2010), 

evapotranspiration, snow storage, snow melt, and soil moisture (Jones and Grant 1996; Hubbart et al. 

2007). After tree removal is completed, soil moisture and transpiration changes continue in response to 

uptake and use of water by remaining and regenerating vegetation. The complex relationships between 

these processes, how they are altered by vegetation clearing, and the net effects on streamflow have been 

studied extensively in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, with varying conclusions. 

0

30

60

90

120

150

180

210

240

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

C

F

S

FALLS CREEK HYDROGRAPH

HAMILTON CREEK STREAM FLOW

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

J J A S O N D J F M A M J J

MONTH

STREAM FLOW (CFS)

MEDIAN MONTHLY FLOW MEDIAN MONTHLY MINIMUM FLOW

MONTHLY MEAN FLOW
3 Environment and Effects 

3-26 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Changes in streamflow following timber removal are commensurate with the proportion of watershed 

where trees have been removed (Harr 1986; Jones and Grant 1996; Jones 2000; Moore and Wondzell 

2005). Bosch and Hewlett (1982) suggested a threshold effect at 20 percent of basin area harvested. 

Since baseline (pre-project) streamflow data are not available for all affected subwatersheds, the 

conservative threshold of cumulative harvest suggested by Bosch and Hewlett (1982) was used in this 

analysis to assess the potential for current change in streamflow resulting from past management. 

Specifically, subwatersheds with a cumulative harvest threshold of 20 percent of the timber in second 

growth less than 30 years of age (as shown in the right hand column of Table WAT-2) may have 

experienced potential changes in streamflow. Another more recent “state of the science report” on peak 

flow response to timber harvest (Grant et al. 2008) establishes a minimum, cumulative harvest/stream 

flow response threshold of 20 to 40 percent over a 5-year time span. Climate cycles also influence 

streamflow and probably confound most of these studies, which have not occurred over long enough 

timeframes to account for climate shifts (USGS 2000, Neal et al. 2002). The Aquatics Resource Report 

prepared for this project discusses other studies considered as part of this analysis (Tetra Tech 2014b).

Peak flow increases in the affected watersheds are probably more likely than low flow increases, based on 

most of the studies in the Pacific Northwest. Although studies have suggested forest canopy recovery 

occurs in 10 to 30 years (Jones and Grant 1996; Jones 2000; Prussian 2010), for this analysis, it is 

assumed that forest canopy recovery occurs around 30 years (Hicks et al. 1991; Jones 2000; Moore and 

Wondzell 2005) at which time rainfall interception recovery is assumed to occur (Prussian 2010). There

are no subwatersheds within the analysis area with more than 20 percent of the timber harvested in the 

past 30 years (Table WAT-2). The highest percentage has occurred in Twelvemile Creek watershed, with 

an estimated 9.5 percent of the watershed harvested since 1984, followed by the Mitchell Slough and Keku 

Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound, with 8.6 percent and 7.7 percent harvested, respectively (Table WAT-2).

Table WAT-2. Summary of Timber Harvest Acres in Analysis Area Subwatersheds (not 

including road clearings) 

Subwatershed

Subwatershed 

Size (Acres)

Total 

Harvested 

(Acres)

Total 

Harvested (% 

Basin Area)

Total 

Harvested 

since 1984

Total Harvested 

since 1984

(% Basin Area)

190102020502 15,290 43 0.3 42 0.3

190102021103 15,054 135 0.9 132 0.9

Big Creek 15,759 4 0.0 4 0.0

Big John Bay-Frontal Rocky Pass 16,239 1,018 6.3 298 1.8

Big John Creek 13,194 586 4.4 563 4.3

Cathedral Falls Creek 17,137 1,244 7.3 320 1.9

Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell 

Narrows

48,387 1,473 3.0 646 1.3

Duncan Canal-Frontal Sumner Strait 27,686 1,592 5.8 800 2.9

Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick Sound 13,649 17 0.1 16 0.1

Goose Cove 23,118 1,896 8.2 1,270 5.5

Hamilton Bay-Frontal Keku Strait 10,573 2,047 19.4 68 0.6

Headwaters Hamilton Creek 9,820 0 0.0 0 0.0

Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound 10,747 2,172 20.2 823 7.7

Mitchell Slough 14,278 2,017 14.1 1,222 8.6

Mitkof Island-Frontal Frederick Sound 19,738 1,497 7.6 512 2.6

North Arm-Frontal Duncan Canal 30,882 428 1.4 350 1.1

Outlet Hamilton Creek 21,105 2,415 11.4 871 4.1

Sitkum Creek 8,932 2,684 30.1 78 0.9

Taylor Creek-Frontal Duncan Canal 26,121 572 2.2 258 1.0

Twelvemile Creek 7,363 746 10.1 703 9.5
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-27

Water Quality

Water quality information for streams within the analysis area is limited due to the scarcity of current or 

historic USGS stream gages. The primary water quality parameters likely to be affected by the proposed 

project are sediment, turbidity, and stream temperature. Within the affected subwatersheds, primary 

water quality concerns include potential effects to water bodies with beneficial uses, sedimentation and 

turbidity, and water temperature. Hamilton Bay was placed on the Section 303(d) list of impaired water 

bodies in 1996 for bark accumulation. This water body was removed from the impaired list in 2002 when 

dive survey reports showed that the bark accumulation was 0.6 acre.

Beneficial Uses of Waters in the Analysis Area

Waters in Alaska are protected for all uses according to standards outlined in the Alaska Water Quality 

Standards (ADEC 2011b). Numeric criteria standards are established according to protected use classes 

and subclasses. For stream temperature, the most stringent criterion is aquatic life, and for turbidity, it is 

drinking water. Existing uses of water from the subwatersheds in the analysis area include potable water 

supplies, aquatic life, and limited contact recreation. 

There are state-classified public water supplies (PWS) in the affected subwatersheds near Kake and 

Petersburg: Kake Municipal Water (which gets its water from a reservoir in the Gunnuk Creek 

subwatershed that is not crossed by the project), and the city of Petersburg Water Utility (which treats 

water from Cabin Creek Dam and City Creek Dam). The Petersburg municipal watershed is split 

between the Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell Narrows and Mitkof Island-Frontal Frederick Sound 

subwatersheds, and the project should have no impact on either public water supplies. Both city water 

utilities supply potable water to area residents.

Sedimentation and Turbidity

No sedimentation or turbidity data are available for subwatersheds in the analysis area. Generally, in 

Southeast Alaska, suspended sediment loads in non-glacial streams in undisturbed watersheds are very 

low (Schmeige et al. 1974). Watershed factors such as drainage efficiency (as measured by stream 

density), road density, percent of basin comprised of roads, time elapsed since timber harvest, steepness 

of the topography, and percent of the watershed with soils on slopes greater than 72 percent contribute to 

determining the risk of mass movement. These factors are considered in terms of potential sediment 

source and deposition areas, and the efficiency of sediment transport within the watershed. Sediment is 

introduced into streams by channel erosion, roads, landslides and debris flows, and rain splash on bare 

soils. 

Changes in natural flow routing and the increased rate of sediment delivery to streams and altered timing 

and volume of peak flows can result in bed surface fining, smoothing of stream channels, and filling of 

pools (Madej 1999; Wemple et al. 1996). Road building has also been implicated with losses of wetlands 

through the effects of filling, fragmentation, and alteration of hydrology. Long-term sediment 

introduction from roads is influenced by the type of structure at the road/stream crossing, road slope, age, 

maintenance condition, time since last graded, seasonal timing of maintenance activities, amount of 

traffic, rock quality, weather, hillslope length, soil depth, and cutbank depth (Croke et al. 2005; Wemple 

and Jones 2003; Kahklen and Hartsog 1999; Reid and Dunne 1984).

There are approximately 263 miles of roads in the analysis area subwatersheds. This estimate includes all 

roads, including NFS and temporary roads, ever built regardless of age. Percentage of subwatershed area 

consisting of roads has been used to estimate the risk of flow-related impacts to aquatic systems, 

including sediment introduction into streams. The percent of subwatershed area as roads and road 

densities are low in all analysis area subwatersheds, with the highest values occurring in the Mitchell 

Slough subwatershed, with roads accounting for 0.9 percent of the subwatershed and an estimated road 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-28 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

density of 1.3 miles per square mile (Table WAT-3). Table WAT-4 lists the number of streams crossed 

by existing roads, by stream type.

Table WAT-3. Existing Roads in Analysis Area

Subwatershed

Size 

(Square 

Miles)

Existing Road 

(Miles)

Percent

Subwatershed 

as Roads1/

Road Density 

(Miles/Square Mile)

190102020502 23.9 5.4 0.2 0.2

190102021103 23.5 6.6 0.2 0.3

Big Creek 24.6 0.9 0.0 0.0

Big John Bay-Frontal Rocky Pass 25.4 13.3 0.4 0.5

Big John Creek 20.6 14.1 0.5 0.7

Cathedral Falls Creek 26.8 15.9 0.5 0.6

Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell 

Narrows

75.6 30.1 0.3 0.4

Duncan Canal-Frontal Sumner Strait 43.3 12.6 0.2 0.3

Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick Sound 21.3 0.4 0.0 0.0

Goose Cove 36.1 20.4 0.4 0.6

Hamilton Bay-Frontal Keku Strait 16.5 14.3 0.7 0.9

Headwaters Hamilton Creek 15.3 1.6 0.1 0.1

Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound 16.8 4.2 0.2 0.3

Mitchell Slough 22.3 27.9 0.9 1.3

Mitkof Island-Frontal Frederick Sound 30.8 26.3 0.6 0.9

North Arm-Frontal Duncan Canal 48.3 11.8 0.2 0.2

Outlet Hamilton Creek 33.0 33.2 0.8 1.0

Sitkum Creek 14.0 10.4 0.6 0.7

Taylor Creek-Frontal Duncan Canal 40.8 8.4 0.2 0.2

Twelvemile Creek 11.5 4.9 0.3 0.4

Note:

1/ ‘Percent Basin as Roads’ calculated as: [(Existing road miles * 5,280 ft/mi * 40 ft <assumed clearing width>/43,560 ft2/acre)/ 

subwatershed size <acres>] * 100
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-29

Table WAT-4. Stream Crossings by Existing Roads in Analysis Area Subwatersheds

Subwatershed

Class I Streams Class II Streams Class III Streams Class IV Streams

Outside 

Project 

Corridor

In Project 

Corridor

Outside 

Project 

Corridor

In Project 

Corridor

Outside 

Project 

Corridor

In Project 

Corridor

Outside 

Project 

Corridor

In Project 

Corridor

190102020502 0 7 0 5 0 0 1 0

190102021103 1 1 8 1 1 2 7 8

Big Creek 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0

Big John Bay-Frontal Rocky Pass 8 1 18 14 0 2 7 23

Big John Creek 4 0 13 8 2 6 17 11

Cathedral Falls Creek 0 0 6 10 0 0 0 0

Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell Narrows 10 0 32 0 12 0 15 9

Duncan Canal-Frontal Sumner Strait 4 0 20 0 5 0 24 0

Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick Sound 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Goose Cove 8 6 6 3 3 0 0 0

Hamilton Bay-Frontal Keku Strait 1 0 2 4 0 0 0 0

Headwaters Hamilton Creek 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0

Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0

Mitchell Slough 5 9 20 12 10 0 31 11

Mitkof Island-Frontal Frederick Sound 12 0 13 0 12 0 1 0

North Arm-Frontal Duncan Canal 3 0 1 0 4 0 0 0

Outlet Hamilton Creek 5 1 42 1 2 0 43 1

Sitkum Creek 4 1 4 3 0 1 0 0

Taylor Creek-Frontal Duncan Canal 0 0 6 0 3 0 1 0

Twelvemile Creek 2 0 6 1 3 0 0 0

Grand Total 68 27 198 65 57 11 147 63
3 Environment and Effects 

3-30 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Landslides resulting from disturbance can contribute significant amounts of sediment and may occur due 

to disturbances independent of the basin area harvested (Kreutzweiser and Capell 2001). Landslides may 

be an important source of wood and spawning gravels, which are building blocks for fish habitat (Burnett 

et al. 2007). Timber and vegetation clearing and road construction on unstable slopes may trigger 

landslides and debris flows. The delivery of sediment to streams from these events depends on their 

connection to streams (Gomi et al. 2005). Subwatersheds in the analysis area are generally characterized 

by low relief (steepness) of the mainstem channels. Portions of the subwatersheds have high concavity 

profiles where steep mountain slopes meet low-gradient valleys. Landslides and debris flows in these 

settings typically deliver sediment and debris in the form of large log jams and alluvial fans at 

confluences, resulting in patchy disturbance patterns (May 2007; Benda et al. 2004). Strictly observing 

Forest Plan standards and guidelines and R10 and National Core BMPs minimizes the risk of landslides 

in clearcut harvest areas and in areas with road construction. Landslide occurrence (i.e., the number of 

landslides) is highest in the Mitchell Slough subwatershed (Table WAT-5). The Colorado Creek-Frontal 

Wrangell Narrows and Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick Sound subwatersheds have the largest areas 

affected by landslides, approximately 934 acres and 896 acres, respectively (Table WAT-5).

Table WAT-5. Soils on Slopes Greater than 72 Percent and Landslide Summary for Analysis 

Area Subwatersheds

Subwatershed

Slopes > 

72% 

(acres)

Percent of 

Subwatershed 

with Slopes > 72%

Number of 

Landslides

Landslides

Area

(acres)

190102020502 0.0 0.0 0 0.0

190102021103 210.9 1.4 1 201.8

Big Creek 0.0 0.0 0 0.0

Big John Bay-Frontal Rocky Pass 9.9 0.1 0 0.0

Big John Creek 159.6 1.2 6 242.5

Cathedral Falls Creek 29.6 0.2 2 73.9

Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell Narrows 1137.9 2.4 6 934.0

Duncan Canal-Frontal Sumner Strait 395.5 1.4 7 520.5

Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick Sound 1776.5 13.0 3 896.2

Goose Cove 1311.9 5.7 12 375.4

Hamilton Bay-Frontal Keku Strait 13.6 0.1 1 1.4

Headwaters Hamilton Creek 61.6 0.6 1 1.7

Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound 9.5 0.1 0 0.0

Mitchell Slough 322.2 2.3 16 574.8

Mitkof Island-Frontal Frederick Sound 417.0 2.1 1 280.3

North Arm-Frontal Duncan Canal 475.5 1.5 5 778.5

Outlet Hamilton Creek 97.6 0.5 3 30.6

Sitkum Creek 48.3 0.5 2 17.5

Taylor Creek-Frontal Duncan Canal 759.9 2.9 11 590.8

Twelvemile Creek 768.4 10.4 5 258.1

The landslides identified in Table WAT-5 are for the entire subwatersheds and include landslides 

occurring outside of the portions of each subwatershed crossed by one or more of the proposed 

transmission line corridors. Project-related disturbance is expected to occur within a corridor that ranges 

from 100- to 300 feet-wide under all of the action alternatives. Landslides within these areas are 

uncommon. A review of mapped landslides on the Tongass indicated that three debris avalanches have 

occurred within the 300-foot-wide corridors for all of the action alternatives, affecting a total of 12 acres. 

Two of these landslides appear to be natural and one is assumed to be related to past timber harvest. 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-31

Temperature

Removal of riparian vegetation and the resultant increase in solar radiation can lead to increased stream 

temperatures (Beschta et al. 2000). The Alaska Water Quality Standards for “growth and propagation of 

fish” state that temperature “may not exceed 20 degrees C at any time”, with additional thresholds of 

15oC for migration and rearing areas, and 13oC for spawning areas (ADEC 2011b). Recent 

correspondence with USGS personnel indicates the 20oC standard is exceeded most years on 

approximately half of the non-glacial streams in Southeast Alaska (Solin pers. comm., 2009, as cited in 

USDA Forest Service 2011d). Recent data from three case study watersheds on Prince of Wales Island 

indicate temperature limits are exceeded even in unmanaged watersheds under conditions of higher than 

normal air temperature (Tucker and Thompson 2010). The effects of past upland and riparian harvest on 

maximum stream temperatures were thought to be masked by local watershed characteristics and ambient 

weather conditions in the above study, suggesting the current numeric criteria for maximum stream 

temperature exceedance may be too stringent to reflect natural conditions in headwater basins in southeast 

Alaska (Tucker and Thompson 2010). The magnitude of effects from management activities on stream 

temperature varies. Everest and Reeves (2007) noted that streams without riparian buffers in the Pacific 

Northwest may have temperature increases over 10oC. Murphy and Milner (1997) reviewed studies in 

southeast Alaska from past no buffer practices and found a wide range of temperatures in streams, most 

with small increases that did not approach lethal levels. In coastal British Columbia, daily maximum 

temperature in summer increased in streams with no buffer, while water temperature in streams with 33

and 100 feet buffers did not (Gomi et al. 2006). Hetrick et al. (1998) determined that temperature effects 

from vegetation removal were mitigated after flow through approximately 500 feet of canopy cover 

streamside; however, other studies (Poole et al. 2001; Moore and Wondzell 2005; Pollock et al. 2009) 

noted that while water temperature cooling occurred below timber harvest clearings, once streams entered 

forested areas, the level of cooling and distance to return to unharvested temperature levels was variable. 

Forest Plan standards and guidelines protect riparian buffers on all fish-bearing and Class III streams through 

the designation of Riparian Management Areas (RMAs). RMAs aim to preserve riparian zone interactions 

among streams, floodplains, riparian wetlands and uplands (Paustian 2004). Prior to passage of the TTRA in 

1990, timber harvest in RMAs occurred in all analysis area subwatersheds (Table WAT-6). Past harvest in the 

RMA may have increased stream temperatures on isolated stream reaches; however, sufficient vegetation 

regrowth has occurred since the passage of the TTRA for these riparian areas to recover. 

Table WAT-6. Summary of Harvested Riparian Acres in Analysis Area Subwatersheds

Subwatershed

Total Riparian 

Acres1/

Total Riparian 

Harvest (acres)

Total Riparian 

Harvest (%)2/

190102020502 1,621.4 0.0 0.0

190102021103 1,716.7 3.9 0.2

Big Creek 1,633.2 0 0.0

Big John Bay-Frontal Rocky Pass 1,465.0 53.9 3.7

Big John Creek 1,593.3 18.6 1.2

Cathedral Falls Creek 1,700.5 2.6 0.2

Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell Narrows 3,307.7 56.6 1.7

Duncan Canal-Frontal Sumner Strait 1,537.3 66.5 4.3

Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick Sound 442.1 0.0 0.0

Goose Cove 2,200.6 76.4 3.5

Hamilton Bay-Frontal Keku Strait 679.2 109.6 16.1

Headwaters Hamilton Creek 930.9 0.0 0.0

Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound 650.0 160.7 24.7

Mitchell Slough 1,553.1 99.7 6.0
3 Environment and Effects 

3-32 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Table WAT-6. Summary of Harvested Riparian Acres in Analysis Area Subwatersheds

(continued)

Subwatershed

Total Riparian 

Acres1/

Total Riparian 

Harvest (acres)

Total Riparian 

Harvest (%)2/

Mitkof Island-Frontal Frederick Sound 1,109.5 107.6 9.7

North Arm-Frontal Duncan Canal 2,729.9 6.8 0.2

Outlet Hamilton Creek 2,302.0 46.4 2.0

Sitkum Creek 1,129.4 258.1 22.9

Taylor Creek-Frontal Duncan Canal 2,346.6 71.9 3.1

Twelvemile Creek 839.5 71.6 8.5

Notes:

1/ Riparian acres determined from the RMA buffer.

2/ This column identifies the percent of riparian acres in each watershed that have been harvested.

Timber harvest in upland areas has also been linked to increases in maximum daily stream temperatures. 

Pollock et al. (2009) observed that watersheds in the western Olympic Peninsula with 25 to 100 percent 

of the total area harvested had higher stream temperatures than those with little or no harvest. Potential 

causal mechanisms for these observations included heating of shallow soils containing groundwater 

sources which feed into streams; increased risk of debris flows and landslides impacting streams and the 

subsequent influence on alluvial exchange rates, loss of LWD, and loss of riparian vegetation through 

scour; increased peak flows associated with timber harvest potentially widening channels and increasing 

total solar radiation to streams; and microclimate effects due to forest removal such as increased air 

temperatures, reduced relative humidity and increased wind speed potentially extending hundreds of feet 

into adjacent forests (Pollock et al. 2009). In contrast to many other studies, Pollock et al. (2009) found 

the strongest predictor of increased stream temperatures was the percentage of total watershed harvested 

rather than the percentage of riparian canopy harvested; however, the authors had difficulty parsing the 

two effects since most of the riparian vegetation was harvested concurrent with adjacent upland harvest. 

Cumulative harvest levels of analysis area subwatersheds are below those identified in the above study, 

and would remain so with implementation of any of the action alternatives.

Stream Habitat

Stream habitat on the Tongass National Forest is determined by mapping and classifying streams according 

to process group and channel type. Fluvial process groups describe the interrelationship between watershed 

runoff, landform relief, geology, and glacial or tidal influences on fluvial erosion and deposition processes. 

Fluvial process groups recognized on the Tongass National Forest are identified in Table WAT-7. Channel 

types further categorize streams using physical attributes such as channel gradient, channel width, channel 

pattern, stream bank incision and containment, and riparian plant community composition. 

Table WAT-7. Fluvial Process Groups Recognized on the Tongass National Forest

Process Group

Process Group 

Abbreviation Defining Characteristic of Group

Alluvial Fan AF Channels occurring on alluvial fan landforms

Estuarine ES Channels that are influenced by tides

Floodplain FP Low-gradient channels on broad flood plains

High-gradient Contained HC High-gradient channels contained by steep valley walls

Moderate Gradient Contained MC Moderate-gradient channels contained by steep valley walls

Moderate-gradient, Mixed-control MM Moderate-gradient channels with some flood plain development

Large Contained LC Large, low-gradient channels contained by steep valley walls

Glacial Outwash GO Channels associated with glaciers or recently glaciated terrain

Palustrine PA Very low-gradient, placid channels draining wetlands
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-33

Streams in the Tongass National Forest are further categorized into value classes from I to IV indicating 

levels of habitat use by fish populations and are delineated according to the criteria described in the 

Aquatic Habitat Management Handbook (USDA Forest Service 2001b): 

Class I: Streams and lakes with anadromous or adfluvial fish or fish habitat; or high quality 

resident fish waters, or habitat above fish migration barriers known to be reasonable enhancement 

opportunities for anadromous fish.

Class II: Streams and lakes with resident fish or fish habitat and generally steep (6-25 percent or 

higher) gradient (can also include streams with a 0-6 percent gradient) where no anadromous fish 

occur, and otherwise not meeting Class I criteria. 

Class III: Streams are perennial and intermittent streams that have no fish populations or fish 

habitat, but have sufficient flow or sediment and debris transport to directly influence 

downstream water quality or fish habitat capability. For streams less than 30 percent gradient, 

special care is needed to determine if resident fish are present. 

Class IV: Other intermittent, ephemeral, and small perennial channels with insufficient flow or 

sediment transport capabilities to have immediate influence on downstream water quality or fish 

habitat capability. Class IV streams do not have the characteristics of Class I, II, or III streams, 

and have a bankfull width of at least 1 foot. 

Non-streams: Rills and other watercourses, generally intermittent and less than 1 foot in bankfull 

width, little or no incision into the surrounding hillslope, and with little or no evidence of scour. 

Streams within the analysis subwatersheds are presented by class in Table WAT-8. Fish-bearing streams 

(Class I and II) comprise the majority of the stream miles in most of the analysis area subwatersheds. 

Class I and Class II streams account from more than half of total stream miles in all but two of the 

analysis area subwatersheds. In these two subwatersheds they account for 43 percent (Fivemile CreekFrontal Frederick Sound) and 49 percent (190102021103). Fish-bearing lakes and ponds are present in all 

the analysis area subwatersheds (Table WAT-8).

Table WAT-8. Stream Classes, Stream Density, and Lake / Pond Habitat within Project 

Subwatersheds 

Subwatershed

Area 

(mi2)

Stream Length (miles)1/

Stream 

Density2/

Lakes 

and

Ponds 

(acres)

Number of 

Lakes and

Ponds with 

Fish 

Habitat

Class 

I

Class 

II

Class 

III

Class 

IV

190102020502 23.9 46.5 3.6 0.2 2.2 2.2 37.7 6

190102021103 23.5 18.5 18.3 25.2 13.2 3.2 138.1 5

Big Creek 24.6 19.4 39.4 0 0 2.4 77.5 14

Big John Bay-Frontal Rocky Pass 25.4 34.4 13.5 2.8 8.9 2.3 33.5 2

Big John Creek 20.6 24.7 15.7 7.8 13.4 3.0 97.6 4

Cathedral Falls Creek 26.8 1.9 42.2 5.6 0 1.9 94.4 10

Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell 

Narrows

75.6 64.5 30.7 59.9 15.3 2.3 36.4 2

Duncan Canal-Frontal Sumner Strait 43.3 27.3 14.0 15.0 17.7 1.7 249.0 9

Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick 

Sound

21.3 4.5 7.0 15.3 0 1.3 54.1 2

Goose Cove 36.1 34.2 13.3 18.5 0 1.8 96.3 2

Hamilton Bay-Frontal Keku Strait 16.5 10.5 11.8 0.2 0 1.4 4.9 3
3 Environment and Effects 

3-34 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Table WAT-8. Stream Classes, Stream Density, and Lake / Pond Habitat within Project 

Subwatersheds (continued)

Subwatershed

Area 

(mi2)

Stream Length (miles)1/

Stream 

Density2/

Lakes 

and

Ponds 

(acres)

Number of 

Lakes and

Ponds with 

Fish 

Habitat

Class 

I

Class 

II

Class 

III

Class 

IV

Headwaters Hamilton Creek 15.3 20.8 4.1 3.1 0 1.8 25.3 4

Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound 16.8 17.9 2.7 0.6 0 1.3 21.9 1

Mitchell Slough 22.3 29.4 17.8 18.5 24.3 4.0 6.6 3

Mitkof Island-Frontal Frederick Sound 30.8 22.9 15.1 17.7 0.6 1.8 21.6 2

North Arm-Frontal Duncan Canal 48.3 64.4 9.2 22.1 0 2.0 195.7 7

Outlet Hamilton Creek 33.0 45.1 24.3 5.6 26.3 3.1 17.6 12

Sitkum Creek 14.0 17.5 12.8 7.5 0 2.7 21.7 2

Taylor Creek-Frontal Duncan Canal 40.8 30.0 33.8 22.8 6.2 2.3 150.5 17

Twelvemile Creek 11.5 10.9 2.3 10.7 0 2.1 89.3 3

Total 570.4 545.3 331.6 259.1 128.1 44.6 1,469.7 110

Notes;

1/ Stream length (miles) was estimated using the best available information from aerial photos and field reconnaissance.

2/ Stream density estimates include information from "unclassified" streams.

LWD in stream channels plays an important role in physical and biological processes by influencing 

channel width and meander patterns, trapping organic matter, providing storage for sediment and bedload, 

and forming pools used by fish and aquatic insects for cover (May and Gresswell 2003; Gomi et al. 2001; 

Bilby 1984; Ralph et al. 1994; Beechie and Sibley 1997). How a piece of wood functions in a stream 

depends on its size relative to the size of the stream. Functional wood debris is considered longer than 

half the channel width and with a diameter greater than half the channel depth (Montgomery et al. 2003). 

Large wood pieces big enough to have important geomorphic functions are called key pieces, and are 

typically determined in the field using minimum size criteria scaled to average channel bed width. 

Stream habitat complexity depends on a continuous supply of large wood from conifer riparian forests. 

Harvest in riparian areas prior to 1991 resulted in young stands of alder and conifer mix forests. Alder

provides shade, leaf litter, and can efficiently “fix” nitrogen to fuel primary production within streams; 

however, it does not provide long-lasting large wood. 

Currently, adequate legacy wood exists in Class I and II streams in previously harvested riparian 

management areas (RMAs), but reach-level stream habitat conditions may decline in the future due to 

lack of LWD recruitment from the riparian forest, particularly in the Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound

and Sitkum Creek subwatersheds, where approximately 25 percent and 23 percent of the riparian acres 

have been harvested, respectively (Table WAT-6).

Lake Habitat

The primary hydrologic functions of lakes are to store water for release during low flow conditions, 

increase evaporation by providing a large surface area, temporarily store particulate sediment, and 

provide sites for chemical precipitation of dissolved materials (Dingman 2002). The shallow shoreline 

habitat of lakes and ponds often contain abundant populations of plants and animals, and provide 

important feeding and rearing areas to anadromous and resident fish populations. The Taylor CreekFrontal Duncan Canal subwatershed has the highest number of lakes and ponds with fish habitat while the 

Duncan Canal-Frontal Sumner Strait subwatershed has more lake and pond surface area (Table WAT-8). 

The abundant Class I and Class II habitat in the form of streams and lakes indicates high fisheries value 

within the analysis area (Table WAT-8).
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-35

Fisheries

The ADF&G maintains a catalog of waters important for the spawning, rearing, or migration of 

anadromous fish (Johnson and Blanche 2010). The catalog and field verification provide information for 

the fish species found within each subwatershed. A total of six anadromous and/or resident salmonid fish 

species are present in all of the subwatersheds in the analysis area. These species include three of the five 

Pacific Coast salmon, steelhead, a trout species, and one char.

• Chum salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha)

• Coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch)

• Pink salmon (Oncorhynchus keta)

• Steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) 

• Cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki) 

• Dolly Varden char (Salvelinus malma) 

Each subwatershed contains small and medium-sized drainages which contribute to a marine sport and 

commercial fishery and support a limited freshwater fishery. Both the recreational and commercial 

fisheries are important to the local economy of the area, and these fish populations contribute to the 

subsistence needs of the local communities. 

Management Indicator Species

National Forest Management Act (NFMA) regulations direct the use of Management Indicator Species 

(MIS) in forest planning to help display the effects of forest management. MIS are species whose 

population changes are believed to indicate the effects of land management activities. The 2008 Tongass 

Forest Plan identifies pink and coho salmon, Dolly Varden char, and cutthroat trout as MIS that are 

representative of varied fish life history habitat uses of the Tongass stream systems. 

Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Fish Species

Under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), federal agencies are required to ensure that 

actions are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a listed species. An effects analysis is 

required to address the direct and indirect effects of a proposed action or actions on threatened and 

endangered species and their critical habitat (50 CFR 402.02). This effects analysis is to comply with 

Section 7 of the ESA which requires all federal agencies, in consultation with the USFWS and NMFS, to 

ensure that their actions are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of threatened and endangered 

species or adversely modify their habitat.

There are no fish species in the streams and lakes of the Tongass National Forest that are federally ESAlisted or listed under the State of Alaska ESA. 

Although a number of federally listed fish have been documented in Alaskan waters, their presence near 

the action area appears rare; however, they have been documented in southeast Alaska inside channels 

and could be present in Alaskan waters during some period of their marine life stage (McNeil and 

Himsworth 1980; Orsi and Jaenicke 1996; Trudel et al. 2009; Tucker et al. 2011). 

The listing status of the Chinook salmon (Onchorhynchus tshawytshca), sockeye salmon (O. neka), coho 

salmon (O. kisutch), Hood Canal Summer Run Chum Salmon (O. keta), and steelhead (O. mykiss) varies 

depending on the Evolutionary Significant Unit (ESU) or DPS considered. The Puget Sound, Lower 

Columbia River, Upper Willamette River, and Snake River (spring/summer, and fall) Chinook salmon 

ESAs are listed as threatened. Likewise, the Upper Willamette, Middle Columbia, Lower Columbia, and 

Snake River Basin steelhead DPSs are also listed as threatened. However, the Snake River sockeye 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-36 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

salmon, Upper Columbia River (spring) Chinook salmon, and Upper Columbia River steelhead ESU/DPS 

are listed as endangered. The Lower Columbia River Coho and Hood Canal Chum salmon are listed as 

threatened. No ESA critical habitat has been designated for these species within Alaskan waters. These 

species are addressed in detail in the draft wildlife Biological Assessment/Biological Evaluation (BA/BE) 

prepared for the proposed project, which is included in the project record (Tetra Tech 2014c). All ESAlisted species found in Alaska are noted in Appendix A of the BA/BE.

Marine Environment

Shorelines along all the frontal watersheds contain diverse estuarine and tidal habitats which are vital 

for commercially important species including Dungeness crab, king crab, and juvenile salmon. These 

habitats are part of a complex ecosystem comprising shrimp, flatfish, marine worms, starfish, sponges, 

anemones, sea cucumbers, urchins, shellfish, plankton, marine algae, and other organisms. The 2008 

Forest Plan Revision identifies MAFs and raft staging areas as planned points of concentrated activity 

along these shoreline environments, with the remaining shoreline protected by a 1,000-foot buffer. 

Three existing LTFs—the Portage Bay, Little Hamilton Bay, and Tonka LTFs—could be used to 

transport logs cleared from the right-of-way, as well as for transport of construction personnel, 

equipment, and materials. These LTFs may be summarized as follows: 

• The Portage Bay LTF is located on Portage Bay on the north side of Kupreanof Island and 

could be used by Alternatives 2 and 3. This LTF is accessed by an existing isolated NFS road 

system that does not connect to any community (Figure 2-1). 

• The Little Hamilton Bay LTF is located on Little Hamilton Island, which is connected to 

Kupreanof Island by a land bridge road. Little Hamilton Island is located in Hamilton Bay on the 

west side of Kupreanof Island (Figures 2-1 and 2-2). Logs could be hauled to the Little Hamilton 

Bay LTF for transportation by barge or raft under all three action alternatives. 

• The Tonka LTF is located on Forest Service road 6350 (FS 6350) on Kupreanof Island (see Figure 

2-2). Originally constructed as an A-frame in 1977, modifications have been made to this LTF 

through the years, including a low angle ramp installation in 1990, drainage improvements in 

2008, and various small boat float maintenance/modification tasks. The Tonka LTF was made 

larger and improved in 2013 and a new dock was added. This LTF could be used by Alternative 4 

(Figure 2-2). 

All three action alternatives would require marine crossings. The marine environment is discussed in 

more detail in the separate Marine Environment section of this EIS.

Fish Passage

The condition of existing roads, culverts, and drainage features in the project corridors was assessed using 

district-wide RCS data. Each road crossing structure in a fish stream was assessed for its ability to 

provide unimpeded passage (USDA Forest Service 2001b). The Tongass National Forest has developed a 

juvenile fish passage evaluation criteria matrix with an interagency group of professionals. The 

evaluation matrix stratifies culverts by type, and establishes thresholds for culvert gradient, stream 

channel constriction, debris blockages, and vertical barriers (or perch) at the culvert outlet. Culvert 

categories are:

• Green: conditions have a high certainty of meeting adult and juvenile fish passage requirements

at all desired stream flows;

• Gray: conditions are such that additional analysis is required to determine juvenile fish passage

ability; and
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-37

• Red: conditions have a high certainty of impeding juvenile fish passage at all desired stream 

flows

A stream crossing is classified as Class I (anadromous) or II (resident) if it has verified anadromous or 

resident fish downstream and habitat or verified fish presence upstream. Review of existing data 

identified a total of 25 red fish crossings in six subwatersheds in the project corridors for Alternatives 2 

and 3, and 24 red fish crossings distributed over six subwatersheds for Alternative 4. Additional 

information is provided in the Aquatics Resource Report prepared for this project (Tetra Tech 2014b).

Individual Subwatershed Descriptions

Individual subwatershed descriptions are provided for each of the 20 analysis area subwatersheds in the 

Aquatics Resource Report (Tetra Tech 2014b).

Environmental Effects 

Effects Common to All Alternatives 

Streamflow

Under all action alternatives, there may be an increase in annual water yield, increased peak flows, and 

altered timing of water delivery in small streams in the subwatersheds in the analysis area. Timber and 

vegetation clearing in watersheds may affect evapotranspiration, canopy interception, cloud-water 

interception, snow accumulation and melt rates, thereby changing the collection, storage, and delivery of 

water. Changes in streamflow following timber harvest are typically commensurate with the proportion 

of watershed harvested (Harr 1986; Jones and Grant 1996; Jones 2000; Moore and Wondzell 2005). A

threshold of 20 percent of basin harvested, as proposed by Bosch and Hewlett (1982), provides a measure 

to assess potential impacts on streamflow as a result of vegetation clearing. 

Timber harvest and vegetation clearing can cause temporary increases in landslide potential and water 

yield during certain time periods, prior to recovery to pre-harvest conditions (Swanston and Swanson 

1976; Swanston and Marion 1991; May 2007). Cumulatively, there is a general trend toward recovery of 

slope stability and pre-harvest rates of canopy interception and evapotranspiration in the majority of the 

subwatersheds in the analysis area due to vegetation regrowth that has occurred since areas were 

harvested in the 1980s. 

Harvest over the past 30 years (since 1984) has not exceeded 20 percent in any of the analysis area

subwatersheds (Table WAT-9). Under the action alternatives, proposed vegetation clearing would result 

in minor increases in the total area harvested for less than half of the subwatersheds in the analysis area

(Table WAT-9). The largest relative increase would occur in the Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick 

Sound subwatershed, with the share of the subwatershed harvested or cleared increasing from 0.1 percent 

harvested since 1984 to 1.3 percent under Alternatives 2 and 3. However, this is still a minor increase and 

all other increases in harvest for analysis area subwatersheds are below 1 percent for all alternatives

(Table WAT-9).

Total vegetation clearing, including clearing of muskeg and vegetation other than productive old growth, 

can also impact stream flows and sedimentation. Total vegetation clearing is presented by subwatershed 

in Table WAT-10. Changes in streamflow are difficult to measure. Given the small percentage of 

vegetation clearing occurring under each action alternative, any changes are likely to be undetectable. 

The potential effects of the proposed alternatives on streamflow in the affected subwatersheds are, 

therefore, considered minor or negligible.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-38 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Table WAT-9. Change in Percent Subwatershed Harvested by Alternative and Watershed

Subwatershed

Alternative 1 (No 

Action) Alternatives 2 and 31/ Alternative 4

Total Harvested Since 

1984

Estimated Vegetation 

Clearing

Total Harvested Since 

1984 plus Estimated 

Clearing

Estimated Vegetation 

Clearing

Total Harvested Since 

1984 plus Estimated 

Clearing

Acres

Percent of 

Watershed 

Area Acres2/

Percent of 

Watershed 

Area Acres

Percent of 

Watershed 

Area Acres2/

Percent of 

Watershed 

Area Acres

Percent of 

Watershed 

Area

190102020502 42 0.3 3 0.0 45 0.3 0 0.0 42 0.3

190102021103 132 0.9 0 0.0 132 0.9 111 0.7 243 1.6

Big Creek 4 0.0 4 0.0 8 0.1 0 0.0 4 0.0

Big John Bay-Frontal Rocky Pass 298 1.8 0 0.0 298 1.8 58 0.4 356 2.2

Big John Creek 563 4.3 0 0.0 563 4.3 41 0.3 604 4.6

Cathedral Falls Creek 320 1.9 23 0.1 343 2.0 20 0.1 340 2.0

Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell 

Narrows

646 1.3 41 0.1 687 1.4 36 0.1 682 1.4

Duncan Canal-Frontal Sumner Strait 800 2.9 0 0.0 800 2.9 18 0.1 818 3.0

Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick Sound 16 0.1 183 1.3 199 1.5 0 0.0 16 0.1

Goose Cove 1,270 5.5 75 0.3 1,345 5.8 0 0.0 1,270 5.5

Hamilton Bay-Frontal Keku Strait 68 0.6 49 0.5 117 1.1 49 0.5 117 1.1

Headwaters Hamilton Creek 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0.0 0 0.0

Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound 823 7.7 12 0.1 835 7.8 12 0.1 835 7.8

Mitchell Slough 1,222 8.6 0 0.0 1,222 8.6 85 0.6 1,307 9.2

Mitkof Island-Frontal Frederick Sound 512 2.6 5 0.0 517 2.6 0 0.0 512 2.6

North Arm-Frontal Duncan Canal 350 1.1 25 0.1 375 1.2 0 0.0 350 1.1

Outlet Hamilton Creek 871 4.1 0 0.0 871 4.1 30 0.1 901 4.3

Sitkum Creek 78 0.9 25 0.3 103 1.2 25 0.3 103 1.2

Taylor Creek-Frontal Duncan Canal 258 1.0 0 0.0 258 1.0 55 0.2 313 1.2

Twelvemile Creek 703 9.5 18 0.2 721 9.8 0 0.0 703 9.5

Total3/ 8,976 465 9,441 540 9,516

Note:

1/ These estimates are for Alternative 2. Total clearing under Alternative 3 would affect 4 fewer acres, with a total of 461 acres affected.

2/ Estimates for all alternatives assume that all old-growth timber would be cleared in all the disturbed areas.

3/ Totals may not sum due to rounding.
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-39

Table WAT-10. Total Project Disturbance by Subwatershed by Alternative (acres)

Subwatershed

Alternative

1 2 3 4

190102020502 0 59.2 59.2 0.0

190102021103 0 0.0 0.0 143.5

Big Creek 0 11.3 11.3 0.0

Big John Bay-Frontal Rocky Pass 0 0.0 0.0 61.4

Big John Creek 0 0.0 0.0 70.0

Cathedral Falls Creek 0 67.1 67.1 23.6

Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell Narrows 0 55.3 55.3 39.4

Duncan Canal-Frontal Sumner Strait 0 0.0 0.0 33.2

Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick Sound 0 270.3 268.7 0.0

Goose Cove 0 139.4 139.4 0.0

Hamilton Bay-Frontal Keku Strait 0 49.1 49.1 49.1

Headwaters Hamilton Creek 0 21.6 21.6 0.0

Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound 0 28.6 28.6 28.6

Mitchell Slough 0 0.0 0.0 110.2

Mitkof Island-Frontal Frederick Sound 0 25.8 9.5 0.0

North Arm-Frontal Duncan Canal 0 97.6 97.6 0.0

Outlet Hamilton Creek 0 0.0 0.0 36.6

Petersburg Creek 0 0.0 0.0 0.0

Sitkum Creek 0 40.2 40.2 40.1

Taylor Creek-Frontal Duncan Canal 0 0.0 0.0 103.7

Twelvemile Creek 0 25.5 25.5 0.0

Total 0 891.0 873.1 739.4

Water Quality

Sedimentation and Turbidity

The action alternatives would all use existing roads. The length of the aboveground portions of the 

proposed alternatives that follow existing roads ranges from 33.7 miles for Alternatives 2 and 3 (59 

percent of the total aboveground length in each case) to 36.6 miles for Alternative 4 (73 percent of the 

total length). No new roads would be constructed under any of the proposed alternatives, but the three 

proposed action alternatives would all involve the use of temporary shovel trails, matting panels, and 

temporary access spurs. 

The action alternatives would all cross areas where there are no existing roads (see Table 2-1). Surface 

access in these areas would be via shovel trails supported by temporary matting panels in some wetland 

areas. Alternatives 2 and 3 would involve the development and use of an estimated 21.6 miles of shovel 

trail and 2 linear miles of temporary matting panels; Alternative 4 would require 6.5 miles of temporary 

shovel trails and 7.3 miles of temporary matting panels (Table 2-1). Temporary access spurs would be 

constructed in locations where the proposed transmission line structures would be located off an existing 

road by more than 20 feet. An estimated 7.6 miles of temporary access spurs would be required for 

Alternatives 2 and 3; Alternative 4 would require an estimated 6.2 miles (Table 2-1).

Tongass National Forest monitoring data indicate that harvested areas are consistently within the 

established standard of less than 15 percent detrimental soil disturbance (USDA Forest Service 2005a). 

Recent BMP implementation and effectiveness monitoring of five harvest units and related roads by an 

interdisciplinary team on Prince of Wales Island found effective implementation of the BMPs and no sign 

of erosion or sedimentation into site area streams (USDA Forest Service 2010a). These findings suggest 

that ground disturbance during timber harvest and vegetation clearing alone is probably not a direct 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-40 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

source of sediment. Vegetation clearing associated with the proposed transmission line is, therefore, 

expected to have minor direct effects on local sedimentation and turbidity within affected subwatersheds.

The numbers of estimated stream crossings are identified by alternative and stream class (Table WAT11). Higher numbers of stream crossings typically indicate a higher potential for short term (lasting less 

than a week) sedimentation effects due to construction near a stream. Long-term (potentially lasting for 

years) effects due to drainage disruption by road prisms are not expected to occur because the proposed 

temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs would be decommissioned following construction, 

temporary matting panels or bridging would be removed, and no new roads are proposed under any of the 

alternatives. Properly placed and maintained crossings only affect the local channel segment and, as a 

result, proposed temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs would individually have minor 

effects.

Table WAT-11. Number of Proposed Stream Crossings by Action Alternative1/

Stream Class

Alternatives 2 and 3 Alternative 4

Shovel Trail/ 

Matting Panels

Temporary Access 

Spur

Shovel Trail/ 

Matting Panels

Temporary Access 

Spur

I 10 6 28 0

II 20 5 14 6

III 16 0 4 1

IV 72 3 24 7

Total 118 14 70 14

Note:

1/ This table identifies proposed stream crossings by temporary shovel trail/matting panels and temporary access spur 

only. It does not include streams that would be spanned by the proposed transmission line and not crossed by shovel 

trails or temporary access spurs.

Temperature

The action alternatives would all require the removal of some vegetation within the proposed transmission 

line right-of-way. Given the nature of right-of-way clearing, in most cases it would not be possible to 

leave tall vegetation buffers along Class I, II, and III streams spanned by the proposed transmission line. 

The lack of riparian buffers in these areas could result in higher stream temperatures. Based on the width 

of the proposed clearing, effects on stream temperature would be localized and minor. Further, although 

taller vegetation would need to be removed, other vegetation could potentially remain and provide some 

shade. Assuming no stream crossings could be spanned, an estimated 271 acres, 253 acres, and 64 acres 

of RMA buffers would require removal under Alternatives 2, 3 and 4, respectively. No temperature 

sensitive streams have been identified along either route corridor.

Stream Habitat

As noted with respect to temperature, right-of-way clearing would involve the removal of tall riparian 

vegetation in areas where the proposed alternatives would cross (span) Class I, II, III, and IV streams. 

The removal of riparian vegetation could result in direct impacts to stream habitat in affected 

subwatersheds. However, potential effects would be limited to the proposed rights-of-way and are 

expected to be minor. Timber would be left in place in these riparian corridors to provide a source of 

large woody debris in affected riparian areas. 

Stream habitat may be indirectly affected if peak flows change as a result of the vegetation clearing 

proposed under the action alternatives. Increased peak flows may result in wider channels for a given 

drainage area (Grant and Swanson 1990; Dose and Roper 1994; Jones and Grant 1996). This could affect 

stream temperature and pool quantity and quality. If stream habitat was altered by increased peak flows, 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-41

the effects would likely occur on discrete portions of the channel network, lasting until the channel 

adjusts, and would have a negligible effect at the subwatershed scale. 

Lake Habitat

None of the proposed alternatives cross any lakes. Lake riparian buffers and other R10 BMPs and Forest 

Plan standards and guidelines would be implemented in locations where the proposed alternatives are 

located near lakes. Impacts to lake habitat are expected to be negligible under all of the action 

alternatives. 

Fish Passage

Potential impacts to fish passage would be site-specific and primarily related to shovel trail and temporary 

access spur crossings. However, fish passage could also be affected if the risk of landslides were to 

increase as a result of vegetation clearing. Potential changes in water yield, peak flow, and timing related 

to project activities, such as vegetation clearing, could increase the number of red fish crossings by 

creating flow-related passage barriers to juvenile fish. Theoretically, higher peak flows could increase the 

percentage of time culverts would exceed maximum flow standards for juvenile fish; however, the low 

total existing harvest and proposed vegetation clearing levels and the low percentage of each basin 

occupied by roads indicate a negligible risk that peak flows would create additional red fish crossings. 

Proposed stream crossings are identified by stream class in Table WAT-11. BMPs would minimize 

potential impacts of the proposed new stream crossings to fish passage and these potential impacts are, as 

a result, considered minor.

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 is the no action alternative and is analyzed to provide a baseline for evaluation of the 

impacts associated with the action alternatives. Under this alternative, the Forest Service would not 

provide authorization for the proposed project and a new electric transmission line and related facilities 

would not be built. The proposed project would not result in vegetation clearing or the removal of 

merchantable timber. 

Cumulative Effects

There are several projects in the vicinity of the proposed project that are either presently occurring or are 

reasonably foreseeable. These projects are described at the beginning of this chapter and include timber 

harvesting, pre-commercial and commercial thinning, road improvement/building, and wildlife habitat 

restoration. The proposed project would not be approved or built under this alternative and would, 

therefore, not contribute cumulatively to the effects of other reasonably foreseeable projects in the 

analysis area.

Alternatives 2 and 3 

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 2 would result in a total estimated disturbance of 891 acres, including 465 acres of productive 

old-growth forest (Tables WAT-9 and WAT-10). Alternative 3 would disturb 873.1 acres, including 461 

acres of productive old-growth forest. The majority of the difference between Alternatives 2 and 3 occurs 

in the Mitkof Island-Frontal Frederick Sound subwatershed (Table WAT-10; Figure WAT-1). Productive 

old growth vegetation clearing under these alternatives would not result in cumulative harvest and 

disturbance exceeding 20 percent in any of the affected subwatersheds (Table WAT-9). 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-42 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Under Alternatives 2 and 3, old growth vegetation clearing would occur in 12 watersheds. The largest 

impact as a percent of total subwatershed area would occur in the Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick 

Sound subwatershed, with an estimated 183 acres of old growth expected to be cleared, an area equivalent 

to approximately 1.3 percent of the watershed. An estimated 0.1 percent of this watershed has been 

affected by past harvest. Right-of-way clearing and other disturbance associated with Alternatives 2 and 

3 would increase this total to 1.5 percent (with rounding) (Table WAT-9).

Of the subwatersheds crossed by Alternatives 2 and 3, the Twelvemile Creek subwatershed has been most 

affected by harvest since 1984, with an estimated 9.5 percent of the subwatershed affected (Table WAT9). Vegetation clearing associated with Alternatives 2 and 3 could potentially increase this total to 9.8 

percent. Potential vegetation clearing under these alternatives and past harvest together represent less 

than 10 percent of the area in all the other potentially affected subwatersheds (Table WAT-9). Impacts to 

streamflow based on percent of subwatershed harvested or cleared would, therefore, be minor or 

negligible in all watersheds affected by this alternative. 

A total of 0.2 acre of forest vegetation clearing would take place on soils with slopes greater than 72 

percent under Alternatives 2 and 3. This area, which is located entirely in the Keku Strait-Frontal 

Frederick Sound subwatershed, would have minor susceptibility to landslides. Approval of the clearing 

of vegetation on slopes greater than 72 percent needs to be granted by the Forest Supervisor or District 

Ranger on a case-by-case basis (USDA Forest Service 2008c). 

An estimated 21.6 miles of shovel trails, 2.0 miles of temporary matting panels, and 7.6 miles of 

temporary access spurs would be required for these alternatives (Table WAT-12). Viewed at a 

subwatershed scale, temporary shovel trails would cross just six of the affected subwatersheds, with the 

longest section (11.8 miles) in the Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick Sound subwatershed. Temporary 

matting panels would be primarily used in the North Arm-Frontal Duncan Canal subwatershed. 

Temporary access spurs would be more evenly distributed among the subwatersheds with total estimated 

lengths of 0.5 mile or less per watershed, with the exception of the Goose Cove watershed where an 

estimated total of 4.4 miles of temporary access spur would be required (Table WAT-12). Overall, the 

use of temporary shovel trails, temporary matting panels, and temporary access spurs is expected to have 

minor effects on sedimentation and aquatic habitat in all subwatersheds under these alternatives.

Table WAT-12. Estimated Disturbance under Alternatives 2 and 3 by Subwatershed

Subwatershed

Shovel Trails 

(miles)

Temporary 

Matting Panels

(miles)

Temporary 

Access Spurs 

(miles)

190102020502 0 0 0.6

Big Creek 0 0 0.2

Cathedral Falls Creek 0 0 0.4

Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell Narrows 2.3 0 0.0

Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick Sound 11.8 0 0.0

Goose Cove 1.7 0 4.4

Hamilton Bay-Frontal Keku Strait 0 0 0.4

Headwaters Hamilton Creek 0 0.2 0.4

Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound 0 0 0.4

Mitkof Island-Frontal Frederick Sound 0.3 0 0.1

North Arm-Frontal Duncan Canal 4.3 1.8 0.0

Sitkum Creek 0 0 0.3

Twelvemile Creek 1.2 0 0.3

Total 21.6 2.0 7.6

Alternatives 2 and 3 would involve a total of 118 new stream crossings by either temporary shovel trails 

or temporary matting panels and 14 new crossings by temporary access spurs. A total of 16 new 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-43

temporary Class I stream crossings are proposed under these alternatives, 10 by temporary shovel trails or 

matting panels and 6 by temporary access spurs (Table WAT-11). Properly placed and maintained 

crossings would affect only local channel segments and have individually minor effects.

Alternatives 2 and 3 would cross a total of 10 Class I and 20 Class II streams in unroaded areas (Table 

WAT-13). An estimated 18 of these crossings would likely require the use of an embedded pipe arch, 

with the remaining 12 requiring bridges. With one exception, the bankfull widths of the fish-bearing 

streams that would likely require bridging are 6 feet wide or less. The exception is an approximately 110-

foot-wide crossing of Five Mile Creek. Temporary bridging required to cross this stream would be flown 

into place via helicopter.

Table WAT-13. Estimated Stream Crossings by Stream Class and Crossing Type in Unroaded 

Areas along Alternatives 2 and 3

Crossing Type1/

Stream Class

I II III IV Total

Embedded Pipe Arch 9 9 0 0 18

Bridge 1 11 0 0 12

Circular Pipe 0 0 3 47 50

Modular Bridge 0 0 1 2 3

Stringer Bridge 0 0 12 23 35

Total 10 20 16 72 118

Note:

1/ Estimated crossing types are based on stream characteristics including class, bankfull width, and stream incision depth 

(see Tetra Tech 2014b). These potential crossing types are conceptual and provided for the purposes of analysis.

An estimated 88 non-fish-bearing stream crossings would be required for this route. More than half this 

total (57 percent; 50 of 88) would likely be crossed using a circular pipe, with the remaining 38 crossings 

likely requiring the use of either a modular bridge (3 crossings) or stringer bridge (35 crossings) (Table 

WAT-13). The majority of bridges required to span non-fish-bearing streams would span widths of 10 

feet or less; the exceptions would range up to 16 feet wide (bankfull width).

For the portions of the ROW that follow existing road, it is estimated that 14 stream crossings would be 

needed for temporary access spurs. All but one of the 14 crossings would likely use 4-6 inch circular pipe. 

The remaining crossing would likely require bridging.

Disturbance associated with helicopter pad installation would be less than 0.01 acre per pad. Pads would 

be installed approximately every 0.25 mile along the portions of the alternative where there are no 

existing roads and would be situated to avoid sensitive resources. Approximately 83 pads would be

required for construction and long-term maintenance along the unroaded portions of the alternative route 

with a combined estimated disturbance of 0.83 acre. Helicopter pads would not be placed within RMA 

buffers associated with fish-bearing streams and would avoid high mass movement soil types. Therefore, 

impacts would be negligible.

Cumulative Effects

The potential impacts of vegetation clearing and other related disturbance under this alternative are 

evaluated in conjunction with past disturbance since 1984 in the above direct and indirect effects section. 

Reasonably foreseeable future projects on NFS lands are expected to affect an estimated total of 818 acres 

in five of the 12 subwatersheds that would be crossed by Alternative 2, ranging from 36 acres in the 

190102020502 subwatershed to 310 acres in the Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell Narrows subwatershed

(Table WAT-14). Reasonably foreseeable harvest when added to past harvest since 1984 and acres of 

estimated vegetation clearing under this alternative would not exceed 20 percent of the subwatershed area 

in any of the affected subwatersheds. The highest cumulative effects viewed as a percentage of 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-44 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

subwatershed area would occur in the Twelvemile Creek subwatershed where an estimated 11.2 percent 

of the subwatershed would be disturbed (Table WAT-14), with Alternatives 2 and 3 contributing just 0.2 

percent of this total.

Table WAT-14. Cumulative Impacts of Harvest on Subwatersheds Crossed by Alternatives 2

and 3

Subwatershed

Size 

(Acres)

Existing 

Harvest 

(since 

1984) 

(acres)

Reasonably 

Foreseeable 

Timber 

Harvest on 

NFS Lands 

(acres)

Estimated 

Vegetation 

Clearing 

for KPI 

(acres)

Total 

Harvest 

and 

Clearing 

(acres)

Total as a 

Percent of 

Subwaters

hed Area

190102020502 15,290 42 36 3 81 0.5

Big Creek 15,759 4 0 4 8 0.1

Cathedral Falls Creek 17,137 320 0 23 343 2.0

Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell 

Narrows

48,387 646 310 41 997 2.1

Fivemile Creek-Frontal Frederick 

Sound

13,649 16 0 183 199 1.5

Goose Cove 23,118 1,270 281 75 1626 7.0

Hamilton Bay-Frontal Keku Strait 10,573 68 0 49 117 1.1

Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound 10,747 823 0 12 835 7.8

Mitkof Island-Frontal Frederick 

Sound

19,738 512 0 5 517 2.6

North Arm-Frontal Duncan Canal 30,882 350 85 25 460 1.5

Sitkum Creek 8,932 78 0 25 103 1.2

Twelvemile Creek 7,363 703 106 18 827 11.2

Total 221,575 4,832 818 463 6,113 2.8

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 4 would result in a total estimated disturbance of 739.4 acres, including 540 acres of 

productive old-growth forest (Tables WAT-9 and WAT-10). Productive old growth vegetation clearing 

under this alternative would not result in cumulative harvest and disturbance exceeding 20 percent in any 

of the affected subwatersheds (Table WAT-9). 

Under this alternative, old growth vegetation clearing would occur in 12 subwatersheds. The largest 

impact as a percent of total subwatershed area would occur in the 190102021103 subwatershed, with an 

estimated 111 acres of old growth expected to be cleared, an area equivalent to approximately 0.7 percent 

of the subwatershed. An estimated 0.9 percent of this watershed has been affected by past harvest. 

Vegetation clearing and other disturbance under Alternative 4 would increase this total to 1.6 percent 

(Table WAT-9).

Of the subwatersheds crossed by Alternative 4, the Mitchell Slough subwatershed has been most affected 

by harvest since 1984, with an estimated 13.5 percent of the subwatershed affected (Table WAT-9). 

Vegetation clearing associated with Alternative 4 could potentially increase this total to 14.1 percent. 

Potential vegetation clearing under this alternative and past harvest together represent less than 10 percent 

of the area in all the other potentially affected subwatersheds (Table WAT-9). Impacts to streamflow 

based on percent of watershed harvested or cleared would, therefore, be minor or negligible in all 

subwatersheds affected by this alternative. 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-45

Approximately 6.5 miles of shovel trails, 7.3 miles of temporary matting panels, and 6.2 miles of temporary 

access spurs would be required for this alternative (Table WAT-15). Viewed at a subwatershed scale, 

temporary shovel trails would cross just three of the affected subwatersheds, with the longest section 4.6

miles) in the 190102021103 subwatershed. Temporary matting panels are expected to be required in three 

watersheds, with three-quarters of the total mileage expected to be used in the Taylor Creek-Frontal Duncan 

Canal subwatershed (Table WAT-15). Temporary access spurs would be located in more subwatersheds 

with total estimated lengths per watershed ranging from 0.2 mile to 1.2 miles (Table WAT-15). Overall, the 

use of temporary shovel trails, temporary matting panels, and temporary access spurs is expected to have 

minor effects on sedimentation and aquatic habitat in all subwatersheds under this alternative.

Table WAT-15. Estimated Disturbance under Alternative 4 by Subwatershed 

Subwatershed

Temporary 

Shovel Trails 

(miles)

Temporary 

Matting Panels 

(miles)

Temporary 

Access Spurs 

(miles)

190102021103 4.6 1.2 0.4

Big John Bay-Frontal Rocky Pass 0 0 0.8

Big John Creek 0 0 0.8

Cathedral Falls Creek 0 0 0.2

Colorado Creek-Frontal Wrangell Narrows 0 0 1.0

Duncan Canal-Frontal Sumner Strait 1.2 0.5 0.0

Hamilton Bay-Frontal Keku Strait 0 0 0.4

Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick Sound 0 0 0.4

Mitchell Slough 0.7 0 1.2

Outlet Hamilton Creek 0 0 0.7

Sitkum Creek 0 0 0.3

Taylor Creek-Frontal Duncan Canal 0 5.6 0.0

Total 6.5 7.3 6.2

Alternative 4 would involve an estimated total of 70 new stream crossings by temporary access spurs or 

matting panels, and 14 new crossings by temporary access spurs (Table WAT-11). A total of 28 new 

temporary Class I stream crossings are proposed under this alternative (Table WAT-11). Properly placed 

and maintained crossings would affect only local channel segments and have individually minor effects.

Alternative 4 would cross an estimated total of 28 Class I and 14 Class II streams in unroaded areas 

(Table WAT-16). An estimated 28 of these crossings would likely require the use of an embedded pipe 

arch, with the remaining 14 requiring bridges. Thirteen of the 14 fish-bearing streams that would likely 

require bridging are located west of Duncan Canal; bankfull widths range from 3 feet to 100 feet wide, 

with an average width of 39 feet (Tetra Tech 2014b).

Table WAT-16. Estimated Stream Crossings by Stream Class and Crossing Type in Unroaded 

Areas along Alternative 4

Crossing Type1/

Stream Class

I II III IV Total

Embedded Pipe Arch 19 9 0 0 28

Bridge 9 5 0 0 14

Circular Pipe 0 0 2 18 20

Modular Bridge 0 0 2 1 3

Stringer Bridge 0 0 0 5 5

Total 28 14 4 24 70

Note:

1/ Estimated crossing types are based on stream characteristics including class, bankfull width, and steam incision depth (see Tetra 

Tech 2014b). These potential crossing types are conceptual and provided for the purposes of analysis.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-46 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

An estimated 28 non-fish-bearing stream crossings would be required for this route. Twenty of these 

streams would likely be crossed using a circular pipe, with the remaining 8 crossings likely requiring the 

use of either a modular bridge (3 crossings) or stringer bridge (5 crossings) (Table WAT-16). The bridges 

required to span non-fish-bearing streams along this route would all span widths of 6 feet or less.

For the portions of the ROW that follow existing road, it is estimated that 14 stream crossings would be 

needed for temporary access spurs. All but one of the 14 crossings would likely use 4-6 inch circular 

pipe. The remaining crossing would likely require bridging.

Disturbance associated with helicopter pad installation would be less than 0.01 acre per pad. Pads would 

be installed approximately every 0.25 mile along the portions of the alternative where there are no 

existing roads and would be situated to avoid sensitive resources. Approximately 47 pads would be 

required for construction and long-term maintenance along the unroaded portions of the alternative route 

with a combined estimated disturbance of 0.47 acre. Helicopter pads would not be placed within RMA 

buffers associated with fish-bearing streams and would avoid high mass movement soil types. Therefore, 

impacts would be negligible.

Cumulative Effects

The potential impacts of vegetation clearing and other related disturbance under this alternative are 

evaluated in conjunction with past disturbance since 1984 in the above direct and indirect effects section. 

Reasonably foreseeable future projects on NFS lands could potentially affect an estimated total of 2,996 

acres in 7 of the 12 subwatersheds that would be crossed by Alternative 4, ranging from 112 acres in the 

Taylor Creek-Frontal Duncan subwatershed to 721 acres in the Outlet Hamilton Creek subwatershed (Table 

WAT-17). Reasonably foreseeable harvest, when added to past harvest since 1984 and acres of estimated 

vegetation clearing under this alternative, would not exceed 20 percent of the subwatershed area in any of 

the affected subwatersheds. The highest cumulative effects viewed as a percentage of subwatershed area 

would occur in the Mitchell Slough subwatershed where an estimated 13.7 percent of the subwatershed 

would be disturbed, with Alternative 4 contributing just 0.6 percent of this total (Table WAT-17).

Table WAT-17. Cumulative Impacts of Harvest and Vegetation Clearing on Subwatersheds 

Crossed by Alternative 4

Subwatershed

Size 

(Acres)

Existing 

Harvest 

(since 

1984) 

(acres)

Reasonably 

Foreseeable

Timber 

Harvest on 

NFS Lands 

(acres)

Estimated 

Vegetation 

Clearing for 

KPI (acres)

Total 

Harvest 

and 

Clearing 

(acres)

Total as a 

Percent of 

Subwatershed

Area

190102021103 15,054 132 0 111 243 1.6

Big John Bay-Frontal Rocky 

Pass

16,239 298 456 58 812 5.0

Big John Creek 13,194 563 116 41 720 5.5

Cathedral Falls Creek 17,137 320 0 20 340 2.0

Colorado Creek-Frontal 

Wrangell Narrows

48,387 646 310 36 992 2.1

Duncan Canal-Frontal Sumner 

Strait

27,686 800 637 18 1,455 5.3

Hamilton Bay-Frontal Keku 

Strait

10,573 68 0 49 117 1.1

Keku Strait-Frontal Frederick 

Sound

10,747 823 0 12 835 7.8

Mitchell Slough 14,278 1,222 644 85 1,951 13.7
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-47

Table WAT-17. Cumulative Impacts of Harvest and Vegetation Clearing on Subwatersheds 

Crossed by Alternative 4 (continued)

Subwatershed

Size 

(Acres)

Existing 

Harvest 

(since 

1984) 

(acres)

Reasonably 

Foreseeable 

Timber 

Harvest on 

NFS Lands 

(acres)

Estimated 

Vegetation 

Clearing for 

KPI (acres)

Total 

Harvest 

and 

Clearing 

(acres)

Total as a 

Percent of 

Subwatershed

Area

Outlet Hamilton Creek 21,105 871 721 30 1,622 7.7

Sitkum Creek 8,932 78 0 25 103 1.2

Taylor Creek-Frontal Duncan 

Canal

26,121 258 112 55 425 1.6

Total 229,453 6,079 2,996 540 9,615 4.2

Essential Fish Habitat Assessment

Section 305(b)(2) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act states that all 

federal agencies must consult with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) regarding actions that 

“may adversely affect” essential fish habitat (EFH) for federally managed marine and anadromous fish 

species. EFH consultation has been combined with the Forest Service NEPA process. Consultation 

procedures have been documented in an attachment to the June 26, 2007, NMFS letter to the Regional 

Forester.

Federally managed fish species are those species under the jurisdiction of the North Pacific Fishery 

Management Council (NPFMC), managed by the NMFS, and included in a fishery management plan 

(FMP). These common managed species designated for the Gulf of Alaska region include: Chinook, 

chum, coho, pink, and sockeye salmon; walleye pollock; Pacific cod; Atka mackerel; Greenland turbot; 

arrowtooth flounder; yellowfin, rock, rex, dover, and flathead sole; Alaska plaice; sablefish, Pacific 

Ocean perch; shortraker, rougheye, northern, thornyhead, yelloweye, and dusky rockfish; sculpin; skates; 

squid; octopus; forage fish; and weathervane scallop (NMFS 2005). Several common species not 

managed under a FMP include halibut, ling cod, Pacific herring, Dungeness crab, cutthroat trout, 

steelhead, and Dolly Varden char.

EFH is defined as “those waters and substrates necessary for fish spawning, breeding, feeding, or growth 

to maturity.” Marine EFH in Alaska includes estuarine and marine areas from tidally submerged habitat 

to the 200-mile exclusive economic zone. Freshwater EFH includes streams, rivers, lakes, ponds, 

wetlands, and other bodies of water currently and historically accessible to salmon. 

EFH for Pacific salmon recognizes six critical life history stages: (1) spawning and incubation of eggs, (2) 

juvenile rearing, (3) winter and summer rearing during freshwater residency, (4) juvenile migration 

between freshwater and estuarine rearing habitats, (5) marine residency of immature and maturing adults, 

and (6) adult spawning migration. Habitat requirements within these periods can differ significantly and 

any modification of the habitat within these periods can adversely affect EFH. 

There are four main steps in the consultation process:

1. The Forest Service determines if the proposed action will have “no adverse effect” or if it “may 

adversely affect” EFH. Only the “may adversely affect” determination triggers consultation. 

2. An EFH Assessment is prepared by the Forest Service as a component of the NEPA document 

and forwarded to the NMFS to initiate formal consultation.

3. The NMFS will respond in writing as to whether it concurs with the conclusion in the EFH 

Assessment and may provide conservation recommendations to further minimize effects of the 

action on EFH.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-48 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

4. The Forest Service must provide a written response to NMFS within 30 days explaining its 

evaluation of the conservation recommendations. The response may include reasons for not 

following the recommendation. 

The formal consultation starts when NMFS receives a copy of the Draft EIS with the EFH Assessment. 

Documentation of the consultation process will be included in the Final EIS.

Description of Proposed Action

The proposed action (Alternative 2) for the KPI project involves the construction of 59.9 miles of new 

electric transmission line from Kake to Petersburg. The proposed transmission line would follow existing 

roads for 33.7 miles (56 percent of its total length). In unroaded areas, construction would be via 

temporary shovel trails and temporary matting panels with an estimated 21.6 miles of shovel trail and 2.0 

linear miles of temporary matting panels expected to be used. Temporary access spurs would be used in 

some locations where the proposed structures are more than 20 feet from an existing road, with a 

combined total of 7.6 miles of temporary access spurs expected. Temporary shovel trails and temporary 

access spurs would be decommissioned following construction, and matting panels and any temporary 

bridging would be removed. Shovel trails and temporary access spurs would cross an estimated total of 

16 Class I and 25 Class II streams (Table WAT-11). Construction of the proposed transmission line and 

associated facilities would result in a total estimated ground disturbance of 891 acres, with approximately 

271 acres of this total located within RMA buffers. Additional information on the proposed action and 

alternatives is provided in Chapter 2 of this EIS.

All three action alternatives would require marine crossings. These crossings may be summarized by 

alternative as follows:

• Alternative 2: This alternative includes a 1.2-mile horizontal directional bore beneath the mouth 

of Wrangell Narrows (Figure 2-1).

• Alternative 3: This alternative includes a 3.1-mile submarine cable crossing of Frederick Sound 

(Figure 2-1). 

• Alternative 4: This alternative includes two water crossings: 1) a 0.6-mile submarine cable 

crossing of the Wrangell Narrows, and 2) a 0.9-mile submarine cable crossing of Duncan Canal 

(Figure 2-2).

Potential Adverse Effects on Freshwater EFH

An estimated total of 1,264 known miles of stream flow through the 20 subwatersheds in the analysis area 

(Figure WAT-1; Table WAT-8). Forty-three percent or 545 miles of this total are Class I streams and 332 

miles (26 percent) are Class II streams. Chum, sockeye, pink, coho, and Chinook salmon all use the 

freshwater (except Chinook salmon) and marine waters of the analysis area. Steelhead, cutthroat trout, 

and Dolly Varden char are also present in both streams and coastal waters of the analysis area. Fishbearing streams potentially crossed by the project include Fivemile Creek, Twelvemile Creek, Hamilton 

Creek, Hamilton Creek Tributary, Cathedral Falls Creek, and various unnamed tributaries to Portage Bay 

and Duncan Canal. 

All action alternatives would result in minor effects on water quality and aquatic habitat. These potential 

impacts include minor changes in flow volume and timing of flow delivery, increased sediment delivery, 

and altered riparian vegetation. While these effects are expected to be minor, there could be adverse 

effects to migratory, spawning, and rearing habitat for anadromous salmonids. Potential adverse effects 

to freshwater EFH would be minimized by implementing BMPs to protect water quality and aquatic 

habitat for all freshwater streams within the analysis area. Proposed mitigation measures are summarized 

at the end of this section.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-49

Potential Adverse Effects on Marine EFH

The proposed project could use three existing LTFs: the Portage Bay, Little Hamilton Bay, and Tonka 

LTFs (see the Marine Environment subsection, above). Depending on the alternative, these LTFs could 

be used for transport of construction personnel, equipment, and materials, and may also be used to 

transport logs cleared from the transmission line right-of-way. Additionally, depending on the selected 

alternative, the proposed project would involve one (Alternatives 2 and 3) or two (Alternative 4) marine 

crossings. 

While mapping documentation at the NOAA EFH web site 

(http://www.habitat.noaa.gov/protection/efh/efhmapper/index.html) does not show species-specific EFH 

in the project marine waters other than salmon, text descriptions in the Final EFH EIS (NMFS 2005), 

which provides the ultimate definitions of EFH for specific species, indicates that the majority of species 

with identified EFH in the Gulf of Alaska Groundfish Fisheries Management Planning area have potential 

to occur in all project area marine waters during at least one life stage. In addition, all project area marine 

waters are identified EFH for all five of Pacific salmon species.

Portage Bay LTF

The existing LTF at Portage Bay on the north side of Kupreanof Island could be used by Alternatives 2 

and 3. The log transfer method at this facility is a chain conveyor. Annual bark monitoring, from 2004, 

found that the Portage Bay LTF had a maximum bark depth of 25.4cm and continuous bark coverage of 

0.1 acre, which are below the thresholds for both measures.

Little Hamilton Bay LTF

The Little Hamilton Bay LTF, located on Little Hamilton Island and connected to Kupreanof by a land 

bridge road, may be used under all of the proposed action alternatives. Logs could be hauled to the Little 

Hamilton Bay LTF for transportation by barge or raft to mill sites. Hamilton Bay was placed on the 

Section 303(d) list of impaired waterbodies for bark accumulation in 1996, but was subsequently removed 

in 2002, when dive survey reports showed continuous coverage of 0.6 acres (USDA Forest Service 

2009c). 

The Little Hamilton Bay LTF would be maintained to comply with all permits, including tidelands 

permits, solid waste permits, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 404 (fill on wetlands) and EPA 402 

(NPDES) permits, and State 401 certification. Bark at the LTF would be cleaned up daily when 

accumulations are present to minimize water quality degradation.

Tonka LTF

The Tonka LTF located on the east side of the Lindenberg Peninsula may be used under Alternative 4. 

Dive surveys at the Tonka LTF in 2009 indicated 0.06 acre of continuous bark accumulation and 0.36 

acre of discontinuous bark accumulation (USDA Forest Service 2012c). The substrate near this LTF is a 

mixture of mud and cobble with some rock and boulder. Sun stars are abundant at the LTF and sea 

lettuce, sand stars, hermit crabs, shipworms, anemones, sea cucumbers, benthic infauna, and sculpin are 

all present at the site. Marine life is healthy and diversity typical of a site with woody debris deposits on 

substrate (USDA Forest Service 2012c).

Potential effects on marine EFH by rafting logs include diminished habitat for managed species and their 

prey due to bark accumulation. Barging the logs would minimize the effect on marine species. In 

addition, log rafting could reduce rearing capability for juvenile salmon due to potentially reduced water 

quality from bark leachates and shading beneath log rafts and equipment floats. For all facilities, 

eliminating transportation of logs by in-water rafting would nearly eliminate any bark accumulation in the 

respective bay areas, thus greatly reducing potential adverse effects to marine systems associated with 

bark accumulation. Potential impacts are also expected to be limited based on the relatively small volume 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-50 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

of logs expected to be removed under the action alternatives. While LTFs are in operation, dive surveys 

must be conducted annually and at the end of project activities to monitor bark accumulation (ADEC 

requirement). If accumulation exceeds EPA standards, appropriate action would be taken. 

Underwater Marine Cable Routes

All three action alternatives would require marine cable crossings, as noted above. Adherence to the 

Forest Plan standards and guidelines is expected to minimize the risk of impact to fish habitat and fish 

populations; however, impacts related to the marine underwater crossings would occur. 

Directional boring under Alternative 2 may affect nearshore EFH fish or their prey resources due to noise 

depending on the proximity of boring originating site to the marine waters. Adverse effects to marine 

EFH from the proposed submarine cable crossing (Alternatives 3 and 4) could potentially include local 

loss of benthic organisms and impacts to eelgrass and algae from cable laying on the bottom and 

construction noise. Subsurface disturbance could cause short term elevation of suspended sediment and 

turbidity and local benthic organism mortality. This could cause some local avoidance of the area by 

EFH marine fish species including salmon and some local food supply reduction. Other than potential 

limited near-term loss of eelgrass and macrophytic algae of these areas would rapidly return to 

preconstruction conditions with adverse effects limited to short-term (e.g. days) impacts from the elevated 

turbidity and minor benthic food resource loss and potential construction noise. Vegetation loss would 

take longer to recover but the limited magnitude would not have substantial adverse effects on EFH 

habitat. The result would be short term adverse effects to marine EFH. 

EFH Conclusion

Based on the known effects from forest clearing and disturbance, timber transport and processing, and 

submarine cable crossings, the Kake to Petersburg Intertie Project may adversely affect freshwater EFH 

and marine EFH. By implementing Forest Plan standards and guidelines, BMPs, and project-specific 

mitigation, effects to essential fish habitat would be minimized. Additional impacts to EFH are likely to 

occur only from unforeseen events such as landslides, debris blockages of culverts, and road failures. A 

copy of this Draft EIS will be sent to the NMFS, and the Forest Service will continue participating in the 

EFH consultation process.

Subsistence

Communities Traditionally Using the KPI Analysis Area

The Forest Plan EIS includes maps of community use areas for each of the 32 communities in Southeast 

Alaska (USDA Forest Service 2008c). These maps indicate the approximate extent of the areas 

commonly used by many of the residents of each community in their local day-to-day work, recreational, 

and subsistence activities. Other areas may also be important, but may be used less frequently than the 

identified community areas. The analysis area for the proposed project includes parts of the identified 

Petersburg community use area, which includes the city of Kupreanof (USDA Forest Service 2008c, 3-

663), and parts of the Kake community use area, which includes the city of Kake (USDA Forest Service 

2008c, 3-629). The Wrangell community may use the analysis area to some extent, but it is not within 

their identified community use area. 

Petersburg

The subsistence resources most commonly used by Petersburg households are coho and Chinook salmon, 

halibut, deer, Dungeness crab, king crab, shrimp, berries, and wood (Betts et al. 1992). Subsistence 

harvest provides just over 30 percent of the meat and fish for Petersburg residents (Kruse and Muth 

1990). Marine resources (fish and marine invertebrates) accounted for 59 percent of the total subsistence 

harvest subsistence harvest in Petersburg in 1987. Areas along the Wrangell Narrows and Duncan Canal 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Aquatics ▪ 3-51

are important for subsistence harvest of salmon, other finfish, and marine invertebrates for Petersburg 

households (Betts et al. 1992).

Kake

Salmon, other finfish, and marine invertebrates accounted for 52 percent of the total edible pounds of 

subsistence harvested by Kake households in 1987 (Betts et al. 1992, Kruse and Frazier 1988). Halibut 

and berries are the resources most commonly harvested by Kake households, as well as coho, Chinook, 

and sockeye salmon, herring roe on kelp, deer, seal, Dungeness crab, clams and cockles, chitons, seaweed 

and wood (Betts et al. 1992). Subsistence harvest provides 22 percent of the meat and fish for Kake 

households (Kruse and Muth 1990).

Wrangell

The subsistence resources most commonly harvested by Wrangell households are Chinook salmon and 

berries. The most commonly used resources are Chinook salmon, halibut, deer, Dungeness crab, shrimp, 

and berries (Betts et al. 1992). Salmon, other finfish, and marine invertebrates accounted for 63 percent 

of Wrangell’s harvest in 1987 (Betts et al. 1992). Wrangell residents indicated that areas in the Duncan 

Canal and the Wrangell Narrows were used for subsistence harvest of salmon, other finfish, and marine 

invertebrates (Betts et al. 1992).

Fish and Marine Invertebrate Effects and Evaluation

ANILCA requires the analysis of the potential effects on subsistence uses of all actions on federal lands in 

Alaska. This analysis most commonly focuses on those food-related resources most likely to be affected 

by habitat degradation associated with land management activities. Three factors related to subsistence 

uses are specifically identified by ANILCA: 1) resource distribution and abundance, 2) access to 

resources, and 3) competition for the use of resources. These issues are discussed with respect to fish and 

marine invertebrate subsistence resources in the following sections.

Abundance and Distribution of Fish and Marine Invertebrates

Adherence to the Forest Plan standards and guidelines is expected to minimize the risk of impact to fish 

habitat and fish populations. Potential effects on freshwater and marine EFH are discussed in the 

preceding section. 

Access to Fish and Marine Invertebrates

Access to shorelines is not expected to change in the analysis area as a result of the project. Drainages in 

the analysis area are only accessible by vehicles ferried to an existing MAF or LTF. Most active use in 

the area is by people who occasionally fish during hunting trips and by sport and commercial fisherman 

using the Wrangell Narrows and Duncan Canal. Access to historic saltwater fish and marine invertebrate 

areas should not be affected by the proposed project. 

Competition for Fish and Marine Invertebrates

The proposed project activities are not expected to increase competition for fish and marine invertebrates

under any of the action alternatives. Fishing and harvesting of marine invertebrates occurs primarily from 

boats, on beaches, and along estuaries. No increased activity is expected to occur on streams in the 

analysis area due to temporary shovel trails, matting panels, or temporary access spurs during project 

implementation because public motorized access will be prohibited during project operations and the 

trails would be decommissioned following construction. 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-52 ▪ Chapter 3 – Aquatics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Mitigation 

The effects of the proposed project on aquatic resources would be limited through the site-specific 

application of Forest Plan standards and guidelines and R10 and National Core BMPs in all 

subwatersheds (see Chapter 2). 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Marine Environment ▪ 3-53

Marine Environment

Introduction

The Southeast Alaska coastline is extensive, with many islands and fjords extending the length of tidal 

and intertidal areas. These many intertidal niches and deep channels create highly diverse marine 

environments, with a diverse biota extending from large marine mammals and commercial fisheries to 

numerous invertebrates. This section provides an overview of the existing marine environment and 

assesses the potential effects of implementing the proposed action and the alternatives, including the no 

action alternative, on this environment. The analysis concentrates on the potential effects associated with 

construction and operation of the proposed transmission line, as well as the potential impacts of not 

proceeding with the project (i.e., the no action alternative).

Analysis Area 

The analysis area for the marine environment assessment consists of the marine areas that could be 

potentially affected by the proposed alternatives. The project area includes and is adjacent to marine 

waters that form part of the Inside Passage of Southeast Alaska. These waters reach a maximum depth of 

greater than 1,550 feet in Frederick Sound along the north coasts of Kupreanof and Mitkof Islands 

(NOAA 1998, 2013). The smaller bays and estuaries are generally more protected. The marine areas 

potentially affected by the proposed project include one deepwater channel, Frederick Sound; Wrangell 

Narrows; Duncan Canal; and two shallow bays—Portage Bay and Hamilton Bay. Marine crossings 

would impact Wrangell Narrows and Frederick Sound (near the mouth of Wrangell Narrows), while LTF 

impacts could occur within Wrangell Narrows (Alternative 4), Portage Bay (Alternatives 2 and 3), and 

Hamilton Bay (Alternatives 2, 3, and 4).

Methodology

The affected marine environment was primarily characterized through a review of the existing literature. 

Forest Service, USGS, and nautical databases were accessed to determine physical and biological factors 

present in the potentially affected marine waters. Project activities were assessed based on their potential 

impacts to human activities and marine biota.

Affected Environment

The coastline of Southeast Alaska consists of approximately 30,000 miles of tidal shoreline, roughly 60 

percent of the total Alaskan coast. Marine waters in the analysis area form part of the Inside Passage of 

Southeast Alaska.

Deepwater Channels

Deepwater channels in the analysis area are defined as marine water channels with depths of at least 550 

feet. Frederick Sound, with a maximum depth greater than 1,550 feet, is the only channel in the analysis 

area with a depth that is at least 550 feet. Typical of the Alaska coastline, the shoreline along Frederick 

Sound is often steep and rocky with shallower bays such as Portage Bay providing shallower marine 

environment conditions. The general bathymetry is characterized by narrow rocky sills or steep beaches 

that quickly drop off to much deeper water (NOAA 1998, 2013). Steep cliffs line much of the north and 

east coast of the Lindenberg Peninsula of Kupreanof Island, which is adjacent to Frederick Sound. More 

substantial areas of rocky intertidal zones exist near the mouths of bays and estuaries, as well as Wrangell 

Narrows.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-54 ▪ Chapter 3 – Marine Environment Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

General Characteristics

Frederick Sound has a maximum depth of approximately 792 feet, occurring in the “cable area” of Chart 

17367, west of Kupreanof Island. The width of Frederick Sound varies, with greater widths occurring to 

the west (maximum greater than 12 miles on the west side of Kupreanof Island near Little Hamilton Bay)

and narrower widths, averaging around 4 to 6 miles, near Wrangell Narrows and Portage Bay. 

The inventoried estuarine and marine wetland habitat in Frederick Sound associated with Kupreanof 

Island is generally limited to a narrow coastal band less than one tenth of a mile wide. Wider areas of 

estuarine wetland occur near river mouths and the outlets for Portage Bay, Hamilton Bay, and Wrangell 

Narrows.

Substrate samples indicate mud, sand and clay as dominant substrate types throughout the Sound, with 

coarser substrate such as pebbles, shells, and gravels dominating the samples on the western end of 

Frederick Sound. Surveys of substrates for Frederick Sound include H10256 (NOAA 1987), H10265 

(NOAA1988a), H10269 (NOAA 1988b), H10272 (NOAA 1988c), H10288 (NOAA 1988d), H10289 

(NOAA 1988e), H10295 (NOAA 1989), and H09792 (NOAA 1978a). Samples in the vicinity of 

Wrangell Narrows describe the substrate bottom as gray mud (NOAA 1978a). Samples along the 

northeast coast of the Lindenberg Peninsula also indicate mud as the dominant substrate near the coast 

(NOAA 1988a). Near Portage Bay, samples indicate substrate composed of fine sand, broken shells, and 

pebbles, with mud dominating further off-shore (NOAA 1988c). Extensive kelp bed nursery areas 

dominate offshore areas adjacent to the Lindenberg Peninsula and provide harbor seal and waterfowl 

concentration areas (ADNR 2000).

Frederick Sound hosts larger marine organisms such as sea lions, humpback wales (Fisheries Center 

2005), killer whales (Dahlheim and White 2010), Dall’s porpoise, harbor seals, and fish such as rockfish, 

halibut, salmon, pollock, sablefish (Fisheries Center 2005), lingcod, and herring, as well as invertebrates 

such as phytoplankton, zooplankton, and krill. Benthic invertebrates include commercial species such as 

king crab and Tanner crab, as well as general crabs, mollusks, bivalves, including scallops, sea 

cucumbers, polychaets, and soft corals such as Primnoa sp. (red tree coral) (NMFS 2004).

Human-related activities include commercial fisheries (king crab, Tanner crab, salmon, and scallops), 

non-commercial fishers, heavy commercial vessel traffic, ferry traffic, and tourism activities, such as 

whale watching, cruise ships, and boat charters.

Bays, Estuaries, and Tidal Channels

Bays, estuaries, and tidal channels in the analysis area consist of shallow (less than 550 feet deep), 

protected marine waters generally characterized by mud, sand, and rock bottoms. These include Wrangell 

Narrows, Portage Bay, Little Hamilton Bay, and Duncan Canal. Maximum depths for these water bodies 

range from 144 feet in Duncan Canal to 45 feet in Portage Bay. Depths are generally greater near the 

mouths, decreasing inland. Greater depths are observed at the southern end of Wrangell Narrows than at 

the northern end.

These shallower waterbodies contain estuaries where streams enter the marine environment. Estuaries 

form a transition zone between fresh and marine waters, with the most productive ones generally 

occurring in shallow tidal areas, often located at the heads of bays and inlets. Estuaries provide rearing 

habitat for young fish.

Substrates range from soft mud and sand with broken shells and pebbles dominating shallow estuarine 

environments to mud-dominated deeper areas with some areas of rocks and pebbles.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Marine Environment ▪ 3-55

General Characteristics

Shallow bays and estuaries in and near the analysis area (including Wrangell Narrows) contain EFH for 

arrowtooth flounder, Atka mackerel, capelin, Dover sole, eulachon, flathead sole, rex sole, rock sole, sand 

lance, Greenland turbot, octopus, yelloweye rockfish, dusky rockfish, Pacific Ocean perch, walleye 

pollock, sculpin, skates, shark, squid, weathervane scallop, yellowfin sole, Pacific cod, sablefish, 

shortraker and rougheye rockfish, Chinook, chum, coho, sockeye, and pink salmon. In addition, 

Dungeness crab is harvested commercially in Duncan Canal. 

Common invertebrates in southeast Alaska include clams, crabs (including Dungeness crab), shrimp, 

mussels, sea urchins, and octopus (Ratner and Turek 2009). In addition, sea lettuce (Ulva sp.), kelp, 

phytoplankton, and zooplankton occur in these areas.

Human-related activities in these shallower waters include existing Forest Service LTFs; run-off from 

land management activities, such as harvest and roads; developed areas including Kake and Petersburg; 

domestic sewer discharge; marine vessel traffic, such as commercial freighters, ferries, cruise ships, and 

fishing vessels; commercial, recreational, and subsistence fisheries; dispersed residences; and tourism 

activities.

Site-Specific Characteristics

Wrangell Narrows 

The proposed transmission line under Alternative 2 would cross the mouth of Wrangell Narrows, near 

where it meets Frederick Sound. Under Alternative 3, the proposed transmission line would cross 

Frederick Sound, near the mouth of Wrangell Narrows. Wrangell Narrows is approximately 22 miles 

long with an average width of 0.25 to 0.5 mile and is 30 to 49 feet deep near Petersburg. Substrate 

samples from near the proposed crossing locations for Alternatives 2 and 3 are composed of sand, mud, 

pebbles, bedrock and crushed shells. The nearest bed sample to the crossing locations (Sample 

SD00023486.01), taken October 3, 1978, describes the bed substrate as: “Sand coarse, shells broken” 

(seabed descriptions from NOAA/NOS and USCGS Hydrographic Surveys, Survey H09791 -

http://www.ngdc.noaa.gov/geosamples/survey.jsp). 

Substrate varies throughout Wrangell Narrows; generally containing coarser substrates at the north and 

southern portions, with finer substrates more prevalent in the mid-portions. Substrate samples closest to 

the proposed crossing locations are generally coarse with the sample taken closest to the crossing 

resulting in a hard surface record (NOAA 1978b). Samples from Frederick Sound, near the proposed 

crossing locations, indicate mud and sand substrate compositions. Tideflats within the narrows provide 

waterfowl and shorebird concentration areas, and various estuary and tideland habitats provide rearing 

habitat for pink and coho salmon and herring. Bald eagles concentrate in areas near anadromous stream 

estuaries during salmon runs (ADNR 2000). Harbor seals concentrate in areas along the Wrangell 

Narrows. Runs of sockeye, pink, chum, and coho salmon, steelhead and Dolly Varden char rear and 

migrate through intertidal estuaries as well as starry flounder (especially noted in the Petersburg Creek 

estuary) (ADNR 2000). Tidelands south of the city of Petersburg include eelgrass beds with high use 

from shorebirds and waterfowl.

Estuarine habitat exists throughout the length of the Narrows, with the most prevalent habitat near the 

analysis area associated with Petersburg Creek, approximately 2 miles southwest of the closest proposed 

crossing, and the north shore near the mouth, surrounding Sasby Island. The National Wetland Inventory 

mapping for the area identifies a narrow band of estuarine wetland along the outer coastline of the islands, 

along Frederick Sound. This includes areas where the cable would leave and return to the shore for 

Alternative 3, as well as the start and endpoints for the directional bore under Alternative 2. Outmigrating 

salmon from Petersburg Creek use this area extensively, and shorebirds and waterfowl (including 
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3-56 ▪ Chapter 3 – Marine Environment Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Vancouver Canada geese) use is heavy during the fall, winter, and spring. The Petersburg Creek estuary 

is a community harvest area for Dungeness crab and shellfish (ADNR 2000). 

Alternative 4 would cross Wrangell Narrows approximately 8.5 miles south from the crossings proposed 

under Alternatives 2 and 3. There are extensive mudflats near the eastern shore of this proposed crossing 

location. Channel depths in the vicinity of the proposed crossing range from 0 to 108 feet. The proposed 

crossing would pass just south of the existing Tonka LTF on the west shore of Kupreanof Island. 

Sediment samples near this area consist of dark gray mud (NOAA 1978c).

Human activities include commercial and personal vessel traffic, ferry traffic, tourism, fisheries, the town 

of Petersburg, and dispersed residential housing along the shore. A study of human activity in Southeast 

Alaska ranked the human activity for Wrangell Narrows with a relative index score of 10 out of 10, with a 

vessel traffic index greater than 1,600 vessels per square mile (Wrangell Narrows is part of the Alaska 

Marine Highway). Dungeness, red king, and tanner crab and salmon are harvested commercially and for 

community use within Wrangell Narrows. Chinook and coho salmon are also harvested for community 

use (ADNR 2000). 

Little Hamilton Bay

The existing LTF on Little Hamilton Island on the northwest side of Kupreanof Island is proposed for use 

under all alternatives. Logs could be hauled from the facility by barge or raft (see effects of LTFs, 

below). Extensive tidal flat and areas identified as estuarine and marine wetland in the National Wetlands 

Inventory are present in the eastern and southern portion of Little Hamilton Bay. The Little Hamilton 

Bay LTF occupies approximately 0.31 acre of estuary habitat (Faris and Vaughan 1985). A 2002 dive 

survey found a zone of deposit for bark of 1.08 acres (0.53 acre continuous and 0.55 acre discontinuous 

coverage), however, with much of it covered with 0.4 to 3 inches (1 to 7.5 centimeters) of silt (Haggitt 

2002). 

Hamilton Bay is considered a waterfowl/shorebird spring and fall concentration area (ADNR 2000). 

Juvenile pink, chum, and coho salmon and steelhead rear in the area and adults school before migrating 

up Hamilton River. Commercial and community harvest for salmon and Dungeness crab occurs within 

Hamilton Bay (ADNR 2000).

According to the NPFMC database (http://www.alaskafisheries.noaa.gov), NMFS has identified Hamilton 

Bay as EFH for arrowtooth flounder, Atka mackerel, capelin, Dover sole, eulachon, flathead sole, rex 

sole, rock sole, sand lance, Greenland turbot, octopus, yelloweye rockfish, dusky rockfish, Pacific Ocean 

perch, walleye pollock, sculpin, skates, shark, squid, weathervane scallop, yellowfin sole, Pacific cod, 

Sablefish, shortraker and rougheye rockfish, Chinook, chum, coho, sockeye, and pink salmon.

Portage Bay

The existing LTF at Portage Bay on the north side of Kupreanof Island could be used by Alternatives 2 

and 3. This LTF is located on the east shore at the northern end of Portage Bay, within a protected area 

near Frederick Sound. The Portage Bay LTF is listed in the ADEC Contaminated Sites database for 

petroleum contamination and transformers (ADEC 2013). The maximum depth of Portage Bay is 

approximately 45 feet at the mouth, with a maximum depth between 30 and 36 feet in the central bay area 

in Chart 17367.

The southern portion of Portage Bay, Goose Cove, is estuary habitat. The National Wetland Inventory 

classifies Dry Cove, Goose Cove, the shallow bay just north of Dry Cove, and a generally narrow band 

around the remaining coast line as estuarine and marine wetland. This includes some of the area occupied 

by the existing LTF. Juvenile pink, chum, and coho salmon; steelhead; Dolly Varden char; and cutthroat 

trout rear in the estuary. Adult salmon school in the area in the fall (ADNR 2000). A herring spawning 

concentration area is located directly west of the bay (ADNR 2000). Portage Bay is connected to 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Marine Environment ▪ 3-57

Frederick Sound and offers shallow waterbody and estuarine habitat. Anadromous streams containing 

coho, and pink salmon, as well as cutthroat, steelhead, and Dolly Varden, drain into Portage Bay.

Current human activities and impacts include the existing log transfer facility, domestic sewage discharge 

(Tetra Tech 2010), tourism (including a Forest Service cabin), residential use, commercial fisheries for 

Dungeness crab, community harvest of waterfowl, black bear, halibut, pink and coho salmon (ADNR 

2000), and recreational and subsistence fisheries.

Duncan Canal

A single submarine cable crossing of Duncan Canal is proposed under Alternative 4. This crossing would 

occur just south of Mitchell Slough, approximately halfway between Rookery Island and Indian Point. A 

small amount of beach habitat occurs on the west side of the channel near this location. Maximum depth 

at this crossing location is approximately 82 feet. 

Substrate samples indicate that Duncan Canal is dominated by mud and sand (NOAA 1972a, 1972b, 

1972c, 1974). At the site of the proposed crossing, the substrate is dominated by mud, with grass present 

near the western shoreline (NOAA 1972c). The waters of Duncan Canal are a harbor seal and waterfowl 

concentration area as well as a community harvest area for salmon (ADNR 2000).

There is extensive tidal flat and estuary habitat north of the crossing location. The National Wetland 

Inventory classifies Mitchell Slough, McDonald Arm, Towers Arm, and the tidal areas south of Towers 

Arm as estuarine and marine wetland, as well as a narrow band, generally less than 0.1 mile wide 

extending along much of the coastal area within the water body. Multiple named and unnamed 

anadromous streams flow into the Towers Arm, North Arm, and McDonald Arm, as well as the large tidal 

flat area west of Indian Point. These streams contain coho, steelhead, and pink salmon as well as cutthroat 

and Dolly Varden (ADF&G 2013). Pink, chum, and coho salmon school and rear in the estuary, and the 

area is a community harvest area for halibut and king and coho salmon (ADNR 2000). Commercial 

Dungeness crab and shrimp fisheries (Koneman and Botelho 2000) exist in Duncan canal and additional 

fishing, including salmon and starry flounder harvest, and benthic invertebrates also occur. Herring have 

been reported spawning in Duncan Canal (Skud 1959), with gulls concentrating in the McDonald Arm 

during herring spawning (ADNR 2000). The estuary also provides rearing habitat for starry flounder 

(ADNR 2000). 

Additional human activities include some residential use, tourism including hiking, waterfowl viewing 

and hunting, boating and fishing, as well as subsistence use.

Environmental Effects

Effects Common to All Alternatives

All of the proposed action alternatives involve a marine crossing (via cable or directional bore), 

vegetation clearing near coastlines, and the use of LTFs to transport timber cleared from the transmission 

line right-of-way.

Marine Biota

Effects of LTFs

The effects of LTFs on marine biota are mainly a result of the accumulation of bark over the marine 

sediments below operations. Bark accumulation can smother marine organisms and change the substrate 

to less favorable conditions. Anaerobic decomposition of bark can also result in altered chemical 

composition of the benthic substrates and reduce oxygen availability. Guidelines established in 1985 

restrict bark coverage such that there can be no more than 1 acre of continuous bark coverage 10 cm deep 

within the operation area of the LTF.
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3-58 ▪ Chapter 3 – Marine Environment Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Little Hamilton Bay LTF

The Little Hamilton Bay LTF would be utilized under all alternatives. This LTF is an existing steel piling 

and dock facility with an adjacent sort yard of approximately 2.5 acres in size (USDA Forest Service 

2009c). The Little Hamilton Bay LTF is located on the northeast side of Kupreanof Island. The facility 

is located on Little Hamilton Island in Little Hamilton Bay, located on the north side of Hamilton Bay. 

The island is connected to Kupreanof Island by a land bridge road. Hamilton Bay has productive 

estuarine habitat and anadromous streams feeding into it at the eastern end. The LTF is located in a 

relatively shallow area and was placed on the Section 303(d) list of impaired waters in 1996 due to bark 

and wood debris accumulation on the bottom of Hamilton Bay (USDA Forest Service 2009c). Dive 

surveys in 2002 indicated relatively continuous bark coverage with significant silt deposition, but within 

water quality compliance for residues (Haggit 2002) and the waterbody was removed from the 303(d) list 

in 2002/2003 (USDA Forest Service 2009c). Use of this facility would likely result in additional bark 

deposition, however standard operating guidelines would be followed and effects to marine biota would 

likely not increase substantially above current operating conditions.

Portage Bay LTF

The Portage Bay LTF could be used for either Alternative 2 or 3. Portage Bay has been affected by 

operations at the existing facility. The Portage Bay LTF and camp is currently listed on the ADEC (2013) 

Contaminated Sites Database for petroleum contamination and transformers. In 2007, barreled oily soil 

was collected from surface oil spills and removed from site for remedial treatment in Wrangell (ADEC 

2013).

Tonka LTF

Tonka LTF could be used under Alternative 4. The Tonka LTF has undergone recent improvement 

activities, and now includes a low-angle boat ramp and new dock (added 2013). The facility was also 

expanded in 2013. Use of this facility for project activities would likely increase bark deposition, 

however, operations will be consistent with applicable LTF guidelines. The Tonka LTF is located on 

Kupreanof Island on the west side of Wrangell Narrows, approximately 8.5 miles from the northern 

mouth. Bark monitoring in 2007, 2008, and 2009 resulted in records of less than 0.1 acre of continuous 

bark coverage at this site (USDA Forest Service 2012c) and annual bark surveys continue while the LTF 

is in operation.

Effects of Log Bags

Log bags consist of storage areas where logs are transferred from helicopter yards to salt water (USDA 

Forest Service 1997a). The use of log bags results in deposition of bark onto the ocean bottom, primarily 

under the log bag. Bark is sloughed off from logs during transfer by helicopter to log bags and during 

agitation of logs by wind and waves while in log bags. While quantitative data on estimated areas of 

impact for log bags is not available, the related effects on bark accumulation would probably be less than 

those of the existing LTFs (USDA Forest Service 1997a). The extent of potential impacts would also 

vary by location. In deep water locations, away from estuary mouths, impacts are likely to be minimal as 

such areas provide less important foraging or reproductive habitat for shellfish, mollusks, crustaceans, or 

fish. Shorter operational times (less than 90 days) can also reduce any impacts from shading to algal 

communities (USDA Forest Service 1997a). In areas of existing commercial activity and marine traffic, 

the short-term operation of log bags is likely to result in minimal disturbance to marine mammals or birds 

due to their relatively small size (less than 1 acre), short duration, and similarity to existing activities and 

vessel traffic.

Effects of Log Processing Barges

At log processing barges, logs are unhooked from helicopter yards, “cleaned up,” and either bundled and 

banded and put into the water to form a log raft or the logs are loaded onto a transport barge. The limbs, 

bark, and other log debris from the processing barge would occasionally be loaded into a cargo net and 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Marine Environment ▪ 3-59

returned to the logging site for disposal. Log processing barges, if used, would be moored to buoy 

anchors and/or the shoreline.

Effects of operation of log processing barges on marine biota would be similar to those occurring from 

operation of LTFs. These effects are primarily due to bark deposition on the seafloor during log transfer 

activities. It is expected that while similar, these effects would be less than for LTFs (EPA 1997). Log 

processing barges would have greater effects when operated in protected shallower waters than when 

operated in deeper areas with good tidal flushing. In addition, many of the shallower marine areas in the 

project area are estuaries with fish rearing habitat and include habitats that support important marine biota 

resources such as shellfish fisheries, Dungeness crab, fish spawning and rearing, and eelgrass and mudflat 

habitats. 

Effects of Submarine Crossings

Submarine Cable Crossing

A 3.1-mile-long submarine crossing is proposed under Alternative 3. This crossing would span the 

Frederick Sound, near the mouth of the Wrangell Narrows. Two submarine crossings are also proposed 

under Alternative 4.

Benthic marine organisms would be disturbed where the cable sits along the bottom of the bay or channel. 

The cable would displace organisms needing clear substrate to bore into; however it would provide 

additional hard anchoring substrate for other organisms. More extensive disturbance would occur where 

the cable is installed into a trench at the shorelines. The submarine cable crossings proposed under both 

Alternative 3 and 4 would cross in areas where substantial tidal area is present on at least one of the 

shorelines. Trenching in these areas would disturb the local hydrology of the area and permanently alter 

the tidal area where the trench is excavated. These locations are also rearing habitat for salmonids, 

herring, and flounder, and areas where a variety of benthic invertebrates, including those of commercial 

and community harvest importance, occur. Clearing of shallow tidal areas would alter rearing habitat and 

may impact small amounts of eel grass.

Temporary disturbance during installation could impact rearing or migrating salmonids (depending on 

time of year), herring, halibut, crab, and other benthic organisms, as well as seabirds, waterfowl, eagles, 

and harbor seals. Wrangell Narrows, near the north end especially, has high concentrations of sea birds; 

with thousands gathering in the nearshore and intertidal areas from October through March (ADNR 

2000). Cable-laying activities could impact seabird activities, bald eagle foraging (especially during 

spring and summer), and overwintering Vancouver Canada geese.

Directional Boring Cable Crossing

Directional boring should have minimal effect on benthic marine life as the bore is intended to penetrate 

beneath this zone and would not affect animals inhabiting the surface of the substrate. Temporary 

impacts however, may include disturbance due to vibrations and noise from drilling operations. These 

disturbances may impact all marine organisms in the area for the duration of boring operations. As noted 

above, the mouth of Wrangell Narrows has high concentrations of seabirds and waterfowl and 

overwintering populations of Vancouver Canada geese, which may be disturbed by such activities. 

Human-Related Activities

Temporary disturbance to recreational users could occur during active use of LTF facilities and barging 

operations. This is a result of increased noise and marine traffic during operations. Other potential direct 

effects on human activities include temporary disruption of commercial fisheries and transportation 

during installation of submarine cable crossings. However, these effects would be limited to the period of 

installation in localized areas.
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3-60 ▪ Chapter 3 – Marine Environment Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Indirect effects of Alternatives 3 and 4 include the potential hazard associated with boat or ship anchors 

or fishing gear getting tangled in submarine cables. The risk of this occurring, however, is low due to 

techniques of installation, which include encasing the cable in a trench with rocks in nearshore areas. 

This risk is reduced in mid-channel areas because these areas are generally unsuitable for anchorages due 

to tidal action and/or the presence in major shipping/transportation routes. Further, due to the large 

amount of boat traffic through Wrangell Narrows, burial for the entire length is recommended (Hittle 

2014).

No long-term adverse consequences on commercial, recreational, or subsistence fishing, or recreational 

boating, are anticipated as a result of operation of LTFs, log processing barges, or log bags, particularly 

given the short-term (less than 2-month) operating periods associated with project-related use of these 

facilities. No significant indirect effects on availability of fishing resources (e.g., shellfish, crab, salmon) 

are expected. 

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

There would be no direct or indirect effects with the no action alternative as there would be no project

action. The no action alternative would result in continuation of current power generation and 

consumption such as diesel power generation.

Cumulative Effects

Cumulative effects from the no action alternative would include only those projects that would continue 

without the construction of one of the proposed transmission line routes. 

Alternative 2

Direct and Indirect Effects

Direct effects of Alternative 2 on marine resources include impacts from directional boring activities 

associated with the marine crossing and from operation of LTF facilities. Shoreline disturbance due to 

boring and construction activities at either end of the bore could disturb shorebirds, which can occur in 

large numbers near the mouth of Wrangell Narrows. Vibrations and sounds resulting from boring 

activities could temporarily displace fish, marine mammals, and benthic organisms in the vicinity of the

boring activities.

Indirect impacts to marine resources include increased sedimentation due to right-of-way clearing and 

disturbance due to project operations. Use of BMPs and limiting disturbance near streams flowing 

directly into marine waters would minimize sediment impacts from project activities.

LTF activities could occur at both Portage Bay LTF and Little Hamilton Bay LTF. Both LTF facilities 

are located in sheltered bays where bark accumulation can occur. Dive surveys are ongoing at active 

LTFs. The Transportation System monitoring for the 2012 Tongass Monitoring and Evaluation Report 

(USDA Forest Service 2012d) states that no LTFs in operation exceeded the criteria of 0.9 acres of 

continuous bark coverage. Operation of the LTF for the proposed project is likely to increase the bark 

coverage above what it would be without project activities.

Cumulative Effects

There are several projects in the vicinity of the proposed project that are either presently occurring or are 

reasonably foreseeable. These projects are described at the beginning of this chapter and include timber 

harvesting, pre-commercial and commercial thinning, road improvement/building, and wildlife habitat 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Marine Environment ▪ 3-61

restoration. These projects could potentially affect the marine environment through use of LTFs, log 

bags, and log processing barges. Potential road building and other disturbance near shorelines and 

streams would also have the potential to affect marine conditions. It is, however, expected that these 

projects would comply with all applicable regulations and guidelines designed to minimize impacts.

Further, the incremental addition of potential impacts to the marine environment under the KPI Project 

would not be expected to substantially affect the cumulative impact of past, present, or reasonably 

foreseeable projects on the marine environment. One possible exception is the Kake Access Project, 

which could involve development of a year-round road from Kake to Petersburg and potentially result in 

impacts from road construction and ferry dock construction. The extent of potential impacts would be 

evaluated in the Draft EIS for the Kake Access Project, which is expected to be available in 2016.

Alternative 3

Direct and Indirect Effects

Direct effects of Alternative 3 to marine resources include impacts of submarine cable placement and 

LTF facility usage. The proposed cable crossing would occur at the mouth of Wrangell Narrows, which 

is a known seabird concentration area and contains productive kelp beds. Herring and salmon are present 

and seasonal krill deposits result in the area being a key feeding area for sea birds (ADNR 2000). The 

shallow intertidal areas provide habitat for many benthic marine organisms which would be displaced 

during trenching operations. The localized area and short time period of trenching operations, however, 

results in fairly low disturbance impacts to benthic organisms, which are quick to recolonize. Kelp and 

eelgrass beds may be slower to recolonize and may have longer recovery periods. Trenching activities 

could directly impact migrating salmon (both adults and juveniles) and overwintering herring by direct 

displacement, or indirectly through noise disturbance or water quality issues. 

LTF activities could occur at both the Portage Bay LTF and Little Hamilton Bay LTF. Both LTF 

facilities are located in sheltered bays where bark accumulation can occur. Dive surveys are ongoing at 

active LTFs. The transportation system monitoring for the 2012 Tongass Monitoring and Evaluation 

Report (USDA Forest Service 2012d) states that no LTFs in operation exceeded the criteria of 0.9 acre of 

continuous bark coverage. Operation of the LTF for the proposed project is likely to increase the bark 

coverage above what it would be without project activities.

Cumulative Effects

The incremental addition of potential impacts to the marine environment under the KPI Project would not 

be expected to substantially affect the cumulative impact of past, present, or reasonably foreseeable 

projects on the marine environment and would be the same as Alternative 2.

Alternative 4

Direct and Indirect Effects

Direct effects of Alternative 4 to marine resources include impacts of submarine cable placement and 

LTF facility usage. Two cable crossings are proposed under this alternative. The proposed cable crossing 

of Wrangell Narrows would occur approximately 7 miles south from the mouth of Wrangell Narrows. 

While not as rich in estuarine and intertidal habitat as the mouth of the Narrows, the crossing location is 

adjacent to a small estuarine area on the east shore and would require trenching across a shallow bench. 

The west shore is fairly steep and would likely require less disturbance to shallow-water habitats. The 

shallow intertidal areas provide habitat for benthic marine organisms which would be displaced during 

trenching operations. The localized area and short time period of trenching operations, however, results 

in fairly low disturbance impacts to benthic organisms, which are quick to recolonize. Trenching 
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3-62 ▪ Chapter 3 – Marine Environment Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

activities could directly impact migrating salmon (both adults and juveniles) and overwintering herring by 

direct displacement, or indirectly through noise disturbance or water quality issues. 

The proposed cable crossing of Duncan Canal would occur approximately 1 mile south of Mitchell 

Slough and just over 2 miles south of Indian Point. This crossing would occur at the mouth of a large 

estuary/tidal flats area to the north of the project crossing and Castle Creek estuary areas to the south of 

the crossing. The channel is not very deep at this crossing and the substrate consists of soft sediments. 

While trenching for cable-laying activities would be similar in Duncan Canal as for the Wrangell Narrows 

crossing, the extent of shallower water habitats could result in greater impacts due to more trenching 

being needed and the impacts of sediment deposition on estuarine environments during operation. As 

estuarine environments are present both north and south of the Project area, sedimentation impacts are 

possible during most tidal conditions. Impacts could include burying of benthic organisms, avoidance by 

fish species, and indirect effects on fish, birds, and mammals due to loss of benthic food sources and 

degradation of habitat. 

LTF activities could occur at both Tonka LTF and Little Hamilton Bay LTF. The Little Hamilton Bay 

LTF is located in a relatively sheltered shallow bay where bark accumulation can occur. This LTF was 

listed for excessive bark accumulation in 1996, but removed from the listing in 2002/2003, when 2002 

surveys showed continuous coverage greater than 4 inches (10 centimeters) of less than one acre. Project 

activities would likely increase bark deposition at this LTF. The Tonka LTF has had recent 

enhancements due to use with other projects. Recent bark surveys indicate less than 0.1 acre of 

continuous bark coverage (USDA Forest Service 2012c). Project activities are likely to increase bark 

deposition, however location of this LTF in Wrangell Narrows along a relatively steep-sided channel 

reduces opportunities for accumulation under LTF operations.

Cumulative Effects

The incremental addition of potential impacts to the marine environment under the KPI Project would not 

be expected to substantially affect the cumulative impact of past, present, or reasonably foreseeable 

projects on the marine environment and would be the same as Alternative 2.

Mitigation

Appropriate mitigation measures would be implemented as possible to mitigate potential impacts of the 

selected alternative on the marine environment (Chapter 2). Mitigation would primarily involve 

following guidelines and acquiring permits for proposed marine-related logging activities and installation 

of submarine cable crossings, and locating facilities and features away from sensitive resources. Beach 

and Estuary Fringe Forest-wide standards and guidelines would apply. In addition, general mitigation 

would include the following measures:

• F18–Prior to final selection of submarine crossing locations and marine-associated logging 

operations, field verification will be undertaken to ensure avoidance of sensitive areas including 

estuaries, anadromous fish streams, eelgrass beds, and important fish aggregating areas.

• Implement surface erosion control at facilities such as creation and maintenance of drainage 

diversions to collection areas rather than draining directly to the waterbody and following BMPs 

such as R10 BMPs 14.8 and 14.14).

• Log processing barges and log bags will be located away from anadromous fish streams.

Underwater blasting potentially associated with construction of submarine cable trenches will not be 

conducted near marine mammals or sensitive terrestrial resources (e.g., active bald eagle nests, known 

marine mammal haulout sites). Minimum distances from these sensitive resources would be determined 

in consultation with NMFS and the USFWS.
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Kake-Petersburg Intertie Preliminary Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Timber ▪ 3-63

Timber

Introduction

The timber section provides an assessment of the current condition of the project area and the potential 

effects of implementing the proposed action and the alternatives on these resources. The analysis 

concentrates on the potential effects associated with construction and operation of the proposed 

transmission line, as well as the potential impacts of not proceeding with the project (i.e., the no action

alternative).

Analysis Area 

The analysis area for direct, indirect, and cumulative effects to timber is the estimated disturbance 

footprint for the proposed action alternatives. This area was selected as the analysis area because all 

project-related disturbance and vegetation clearing is expected to occur within this area. Baseline 

information is also presented for timber resources in the VCUs crossed by one of more of the action 

alternatives.

Methodology 

The analysis of the existing environment for timber is primarily based on existing GIS databases 

maintained by the Tongass National Forest, which provide summary information related to forest land 

classification and volume strata. Impacts to these categories are assessed based on the estimated 

disturbance footprint associated with each alternative and are quantified in terms of acres. Removal of 

timber from the regional timber base is estimated using existing ratios of mean board feet per acre. 

Removal of merchantable timber (i.e., trees with commercial value as timber) from the proposed right-ofway is discussed qualitatively, as is potential wind disturbance.

Affected Environment 

The analysis area is located on the Petersburg Ranger District on north Kupreanof and Mitkof Islands in 

Southeast Alaska. The Tongass National Forest, including Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands, is covered 

primarily by temperate rainforest consisting of Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) and western hemlock

(Tsuga heterophylla), with lesser amounts of mountain hemlock (Tsuga mertensiana), Alaska yellowcedar (Callitropsis [Cupressus] nootkatensis), and lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta). Red alder (Alnus 

rubra) occupies riparian areas and other sites where bare mineral soils are exposed. The majority of the 

area in the vicinity of the proposed project is occupied by old growth forests and harvested timber areas, 

intermixed with muskeg, riparian plant communities and beach habitat that are largely unaltered. On 

Kupreanof Island, extensive forest areas have been logged and plant communities in these areas have 

changed to early successional types that differ in character to old growth forests. Regeneration is rapid 

and most of the logged areas are covered by dense stands of young growth. The proposed project would 

primarily affect forested and muskeg vegetation types present in the analysis area. 

Forest Land Classification

NFS lands are defined by vegetative cover, soil type, and administratively designated land use. This 

classification scheme is intended to show the amount of land covered by forested vegetation with further 

divisions to show the amount land capable of timber production. The land classifications for the 398,239 

acres of NFS land in the VCUs crossed by the proposed alternatives are shown in Figure TBR-1.
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3-64 ▪ Chapter 3 – Timber Kake-Petersburg Intertie Preliminary Draft EIS

Figure TBR-1. Forest Land Classifications in the VCUs Crossed by the Proposed 

Alternatives

Non-forest Land

About 7 percent (28,431 acres) of the NFS land in the VCUs crossed by the proposed alternatives is 

classified as non-forest (Figure TBR-1). Non-forest land is land that is biologically unable to support at 

least a 10 percent tree cover. This land classification includes muskegs, rock outcrops, talus slopes, 

alpine vegetation, and river systems, among others.

Forest Land

About 93 percent (369,808 acres) of the NFS land in the VCUs crossed by the proposed alternatives is 

classified as forest land (Figure TBR-1). Forest land has at least 10 percent tree cover of any size, or 

formerly had such tree cover and is not currently developed for non-forest use (36 CFR 219.3). Forest 

land is divided into productive and unproductive forest land.

Productive Forest Land

About 51 percent (204,026 acres) of the NFS land in the VCUs crossed by the proposed alternatives (55 

percent of forest land) is classified as productive forest land. These lands have timber volumes of at least 

8 MBF per acre or have the potential to achieve this volume and are capable of maintaining that volume. 

This land is capable of producing 20 cubic-feet per acre, per year of tree growth. Productive forest land 

includes young-growth stands that have regenerated with conifer species after natural or human 

National Forest System Lands

398,239 acres

Unproductive Forest Land

165,782 acres

Productive Forest Land

204,026 acres

Suitable Forest Land

64,030 acres

Unsuitable Forest Land

139,996 acres

Old-growth Timber

48,901 acres Young-growth Timber

15,129 acres

Forest Land

369,808 acres

Non-Forest Land

28,431 acres
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Kake-Petersburg Intertie Preliminary Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Timber ▪ 3-65

disturbance. Productive forest lands are further classified as either suitable or unsuitable for timber 

production.

Suitable Forest Land / Suitable and Available Forest Land 

The Forest Plan assigned LUDs that allow timber harvest in areas that were determined to be suitable for 

timber production. Some land was removed from the suitable timber base due to Forest Plan standards 

and guidelines within those areas. Appendix A of the Forest Plan describes the process that was used to 

identify suitable forest land. Less than one-third (31 percent) (64,030 acres) of the productive forest land 

in the VCUs crossed by the proposed alternatives is classified as tentatively suitable for timber 

production. Approximately 76 percent of the suitable forest land (48,901 acres) is old-growth forest; the 

remaining 24 percent (15,129 acres) is young growth (Figure TBR-1). 

Unsuitable Forest Land

Unsuitable forest lands are lands that have resource concerns that preclude timber harvest or are in LUDs 

that preclude timber harvest. Areas with slopes greater than 72 percent that have unstable soils, high 

vulnerability karst lands, areas within riparian, beach and estuary buffers, and OGRs are examples of 

forest land classified as unsuitable for timber production. More than two-thirds (69 percent) (139,996 

acres) of the productive forest land in the VCUs crossed by the proposed alternatives is classified as 

unsuitable for timber production (Figure TBR-1). 

Species Composition

Plant associations are a type of vegetation classification system based on the climax plant community. 

Stands within a specified plant association are comprised of vegetation with similar species composition 

and abundance. Most of the suitable forest land in the VCUs crossed by the proposed alternatives is a 

mosaic of two or more plant association series. Western hemlock, western hemlock–Alaska yellowcedar, and mixed conifer are the three major series, with Sitka spruce, western hemlock–western redcedar, 

and mountain hemlock series represented on a much smaller scale. On the Tongass National Forest, 

Alaska yellow-cedar and western redcedar are found in mixed conifer stands, usually as a component of 

the more shade tolerant western hemlock type. The cedars are more typically found in the lower volume 

class strata since they cannot compete with western hemlock on higher sites. 

Volume Strata

The 2008 Forest Plan FEIS established three volume strata (high, medium, and low) for mean board feet 

per acre for productive old growth forest using existing inventories and additional information on soils 

and slope. These strata may be described as follows (additional information is provided in the Wildlife 

and Subsistence section of this EIS):

• High Volume Strata – Areas within timber inventory volume classes 5, 6, and 7 on non-hydric 

soils, and on hydric soils with slopes greater than 55 percent.

• Medium Volume Strata – Areas within timber inventory volume classes 5, 6, and 7 on hydric 

soils with slopes less than or equal to 55 percent; areas within timber inventory volume class 4 

that are either on non-hydric soils, or are on hydric soils greater than 55 percent.

• Low Volume Strata – Areas within timber inventory volume class 4 that are on hydric soils with 

slopes less than or equal to 55 percent.

Strata characteristics, including trees per acre and gross and net volumes per acre are presented in Table 

TBR-1 for the South Island geographic area, which includes Kupreanof and Mitkof Islands (USDA Forest 
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3-66 ▪ Chapter 3 – Timber Kake-Petersburg Intertie Preliminary Draft EIS

Service 2008c). Average gross volume per acre ranges from 20.9 MBF/acre for the low volume strata to 

41.7 MBF/acre for the high volume strata.

Table TBR-1. Productive Old-Growth Forest Volume Strata Characteristics

Volume Strata

Trees per 

Acre

Gross Volume 

(MBF/acre)

Net Sawlog 

Volume 

(MBF/acre)

Net Utility 

Volume 

(MBF/acre)

Total Net Sawlog and 

Utility Volume 

(MBF/acre)

Low 151 20.9 13.7 2.0 15.7

Medium 100 30.3 20.7 2.9 23.6

High 97 41.7 29.3 5.1 34.4

Note:

1/ Data are presented for the South Island geographic area, which includes Kupreanof, Mitkof, Kuiu, Prince of Wales, and 

associated islands. Kupreanof Island generally has lower volumes than Kuiu and Prince of Wales Islands.

Source: USDA Forest Service 2008c (Table 3.13-5, p. 3-327)

Table TBR-2 identifies the distribution of productive forest land in the VCUs crossed by the proposed 

alternatives by Volume Strata and further subdivides these acres based on whether the lands are classified 

as suitable or unsuitable for timber production. The share of each classification identified as “Other” 

ranges from about one-quarter for suitable forest land to one-half for unsuitable forest land. The 

remaining lands (i.e., those mapped as low, medium, or high) are fairly evenly distributed across the three 

categories, with lands mapped as high volume strata accounting for 32 percent of suitable forest land and 

the productive forest land total (15,835 acres and 37,565 acres, respectively) and 31 percent (21,730 

acres) for unsuitable forest land (Table TBR-2).

Table TBR-2. Volume Strata for Productive Forest Land, Suitable Forest Land, and 

Unsuitable Forest Land in the VCUs crossed by the Proposed Alternatives 

(acres)

Forest Land Classification

Volume Strata1/

Low Medium High Other Total

Productive Forest Land 40,878 40,453 37,565 85,131 204,026

Suitable Forest Land 14,698 18,359 15,835 15,129 64,021

Unsuitable Forest Land 26,180 22,094 21,730 70,001 140,005

Note:

1/ Characteristics for the low, medium, and high volume strata are presented in the preceding table. The Other category 

includes water and previously harvested areas, as well as unmapped areas. The majority of the Other category consists of 

unmapped areas.

Wind Disturbance

Wind is the major natural disturbance agent affecting forest dynamics in Southeast Alaska. It recycles 

forest stands and maintains and renews the forest ecosystem. Timber harvest and vegetation clearing 

have the potential to exacerbate the rate of windthrow in adjacent forest stands. The severity and 

frequency of wind disturbance is determined by many interrelated factors, including tree size and vitality, 

slope aspect, soil characteristics, stand composition, canopy structure and the characteristics of the 

surrounding topography which may influence wind flow (Harris 1989).

The Tongass National Forest monitors the incidence and characteristics of windthrow in riparian buffers 

of Class I, II, and III streams that are associated with timber sales. According to the 2012 Tongass 

Monitoring and Evaluation Report, 262 stream buffers associated with harvest from 2000 through 2007 

and distributed across five ranger districts are currently monitored (USDA Forest Service 2012d). The 

amount of windthrow is measured as the cumulative number of windthrown trees as a percentage of the 

total number of originally standing trees in the buffer. Post-harvest windthrow was present in 55 percent 

of the buffers. Windthrow percentages in these buffers ranged from zero to 85 percent. However, the 
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Kake-Petersburg Intertie Preliminary Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Timber ▪ 3-67

mean amount of windthrow present in the buffers was 6.7 percent, with a median of 0.8 percent. The vast 

majority of the buffers (97 percent) of the buffers had less than 50 percent windthrow, and 83 percent of 

the buffers had less than 10 percent windthrow (USDA Forest Service 2012d). 

Buffers with the highest percentage of windthrow were found on unprotected southwest facing slopes 

and, in general, slopes with southern aspects had more windthrow than slopes with other aspects. Based 

on these findings, areas where clearing would occur along unprotected southwest facing slopes would 

generally be rated high for windthrow hazard. Clearing in areas with unprotected southern exposures 

other than southwest would be rated moderate, and clearing in areas with exposures other than southern or 

with protective topographic features would be rated low. 

Environmental Effects 

Effects Common to All Alternatives 

Forest Land Classification

Forest land classifications for the Tongass National Forest are described in the preceding affected 

environment section and shown schematically in Figure TBR-1. The classifications for the total acres that 

would be disturbed are presented by alternative in Table TBR-3.

Table TBR-3. Forest Land Classifications for Acres Disturbed by Alternative

Forest Land Classification1/

Alternative 2 Alternative 3 Alternative 4

Acres

Percent 

of Total Acres

Percent 

of Total Acres

Percent 

of Total

Total Disturbed 891 100% 873 100% 739 100%

Non-National Forest Lands 181 20% 163 19% 74 10%

National Forest System Lands 710 80% 710 81% 665 90%

 Non-Forest Land 33 4% 33 4% 35 5%

 Forest Land 677 76% 677 78% 630 85%

Unproductive Forest Land 319 36% 319 37% 134 18%

Productive Forest Land 358 40% 358 41% 496 67%

Unsuitable Forest Land 223 25% 223 26% 243 33%

Suitable Forest Land 135 15% 135 15% 253 34%

Old-growth Timber 70 8% 70 8% 87 12%

Young-growth Timber 65 7% 65 7% 166 22%

Note:

1/ See Figure TBR-1 for a schematic showing the relationship between the different forest land classifications. As shown in the 

schematic and table: 

Total Disturbed = Non-NFS Lands + NFS Lands 

NFS Lands = Non-Forest Land + Forest Land 

Forest Land = Unproductive + Productive Forest Land 

Productive Forest Land = Unsuitable + Suitable 

Suitable = Old-growth Timber + Young-growth Timber

Volume Strata and Removal of Timber

Clearing by Volume Strata

The 2008 Forest Plan FEIS established three volume strata (high, medium, and low) for mean board feet 

per acre for productive old growth forest using existing inventories and additional information on soils 

and slope. Table TBR-4 identifies the distribution of productive forest land by Volume Strata for the 

action alternatives and further subdivides these acres based on whether the lands are classified as suitable 

or unsuitable for timber production. 
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3-68 ▪ Chapter 3 – Timber Kake-Petersburg Intertie Preliminary Draft EIS

Table TBR-4. Volume Strata for Productive Forest Land, Suitable Forest Land, and 

Unsuitable Forest Land by Alternative (acres)

Forest Land 

Classification1/

Volume Strata

Low Medium High Other Total

Alternatives 2 and 3

Suitable Forest Land 24 15 30 65 135

Unsuitable Forest Land 66 67 62 28 223

Productive Forest Land2/ 90 83 92 93 358

Alternative 4

Suitable Forest Land 33 38 15 166 253

Unsuitable Forest Land 108 58 36 42 244

Productive Forest Land2/ 141 96 51 208 496

Note:

1/ Characteristics for the low, medium, and high volume strata are presented in the affected environment section. The Other 

category includes water and previously harvested areas.

2/ Productive forest land is divided into suitable and unsuitable forest land.

Removal of Timber from the Regional Timber Base

The estimated number of trees, gross volume, and net sawlog volume that would be cleared are 

summarized for suitable forest land by alternative in Table TBR-5. These estimates are based on the 

average numbers for the South Island geographic area developed for the 2008 Forest Plan EIS (see Table 

TBR-1). As a result, these are very general estimates suitable mainly for the comparison of alternatives. 

The majority of these trees and estimated volumes would be permanently removed from the regional 

timber base. The associated economic implications for the forest products industry are discussed below in 

the Socioeconomics section.

Table TBR-5. Estimated Trees, Gross Volume, and Net Sawlog Volume Cleared by 

Alternative

Volume Strata Suitable Acres Trees 

Gross Volume 

(MBF)

Net Sawlog 

Volume (MBF)

Alternatives 2 and 3

Low 24 3,639 504 330

Medium 15 1,543 468 319

High 30 2,894 1,244 874

Total 69 8,077 2,216 1,524

Alternative 4

Low 33 5,040 698 457

Medium 38 3,793 1,149 785

High 15 1,492 641 451

Total 87 10,325 2,488 1,693

Removal of Merchantable Timber from the Right-of-Way

Suitable timber land on the Tongass is partitioned into two non-interchangeable components (NIC) based 

on operability. Lands with normal operability are designated NIC I; all other land is NIC II. Normal 

operability includes those systems most frequently used on the Tongass: tractor, shovel, standard cable, 

and helicopter with yarding distances up to 0.75 mile (USDA Forest Service 2008a, p. 7-24). The 

applicant would be required to remove trees with commercial value as timber (i.e., merchantable timber)

on lands that are either 0.75 mile from saltwater or a road network that leads to a community or LTF. 

This would apply to all areas except those where right-of-way clearing is required in stream buffers. 

Clearing would only occur in stream buffers in locations where there is insufficient topography to allow 
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Kake-Petersburg Intertie Preliminary Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Timber ▪ 3-69

spanning. In stream buffer areas, all timber within 100 feet of fish-bearing streams would be directionally 

felled and left in the right-of-way to reduce negative impacts to streams and provide some long-term large 

woody debris. However, some streams may benefit from increasing large woody debris at the time of 

clearing. Any efforts to provide for fish habitat improvements would be coordinated with Forest Service 

staff.

Wind Disturbance

Forest stand degradation could potentially occur in local areas along the proposed right-of-way where the 

route is exposed to strong winds, especially where it runs perpendicular to the prevailing wind direction. 

However, despite this potential, windthrow has not historically been a serious problem along other 

transmission line rights-of-way in Southeast Alaska (USDA Forest Service 1997a).

In stands with trees of variable heights, the right-of-way would be cleared with feathered edges, with the 

height of the vegetation increasing as one gets closer to the edge of the right-of-way. This approach 

provides a gradual vegetation height transition between the ground and forest canopy and minimizes the 

potential for windthrow along the edges of the right-of-way. In areas where trees are uniform in height, 

the entire right-of-way would be cleared. In areas where the proposed transmission line spans a valley, 

trees and other vegetation below the line may not need to be completely cleared. Another technique that 

may be employed to minimize effects on vegetation is limited sculpting, with vegetation allowed to grow 

closer and taller near the structures than near the conductors between the structures. These approaches 

would also minimize the potential for windthrow along the right-of-way boundary. 

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 is the no action alternative and is analyzed to provide a baseline for evaluation of the 

impacts associated with the action alternatives. Under this alternative, the Forest Service would not 

provide authorization for the proposed project and a new electric transmission line and related facilities 

would not be built. The proposed project would not result in vegetation clearing or the removal of 

merchantable timber. 

Cumulative Effects 

The proposed project would not be approved or built under this alternative and would, therefore, not 

contribute cumulatively to the effects of other reasonably foreseeable projects in the analysis area.

Alternative 2 – Proposed Action

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Alternative 2 would disturb an estimated total of 891 acres. This total includes both NFS and non-NFS 

lands, which account for 80 percent and 20 percent of the total respectively. The majority of the NFS 

lands are classified as forest land (677 acres; 76 percent of the overall total), with 135 acres (15 percent) 

classified as suitable forest land (Table TBR-3). 

Almost half (49 percent; 65 acres) of the suitable forest land that would be disturbed under this alternative 

is classified as other from a volume strata perspective. “Other” in this case primarily refers to previously 

harvested areas. Approximately 43 percent (30 acres) of the remaining suitable acres are mapped as high 

volume strata, with the remaining 22 percent (15 acres) and 35 percent (24 acres) mapped as medium and 

low volume strata (Table TBR-4).
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3-70 ▪ Chapter 3 – Timber Kake-Petersburg Intertie Preliminary Draft EIS

An estimated 69 acres of suitable lands mapped with a volume strata of low, medium, or high would be 

cleared under this alternative. Estimates developed using average ratios developed for the 2008 Forest 

Plan EIS indicate that this would involve the removal of 8,077 trees with gross and net sawlog volumes of 

approximately 2,216 MBF and 1,524 MBF, respectively (Table TBR-5). As noted above, these are very 

general estimates suitable mainly for the comparison of alternatives. The majority of these trees and 

estimated volumes would be permanently removed from the regional timber base. These estimates are the 

same for Alternatives 2 and 3 and lower than under Alternative 4.

Cumulative Effects

Timber harvest has occurred in the analysis area in the past. An estimated 10,734 acres of the NFS lands 

within the VCUs crossed by proposed alternatives, about 3 percent of the total NFS lands in this area, 

have been harvested since 1981. An estimated 45 acres or 6 percent of the total NFS lands that would be 

disturbed by this alternative have been harvested since 1981. There are several projects in the vicinity of 

the proposed project that are either presently occurring or are reasonably foreseeable. These projects are 

described at the beginning of this chapter and include timber harvesting, pre-commercial and commercial 

thinning, road improvement/building, and wildlife habitat restoration. One reasonably foreseeable timber 

sale (Bocephus) includes units that would be located within the analysis area for this alternative. The 

portions of these units within the analysis area total 2.7 acres. 

Alternative 3 – Northern Route with Submarine Cable

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Alternative 3 would disturb an estimated total of 873 acres. This total includes both NFS and non-NFS 

lands, which account for 81 percent and 19 percent of the total respectively. The majority of the NFS 

lands are classified as forest land (677 acres; 78 percent of the overall total), with 135 acres (15 percent) 

classified as suitable forest land (Table TBR-3). Total acres disturbed are lower under Alternative 3 than 

Alternative 2 (873 acres versus 891 acres) because it is shorter and would require less right-of-way 

clearing.

Almost half (49 percent; 65 acres) of the suitable forest land that would be disturbed under this alternative 

is classified as other from a volume strata perspective. “Other” in this case primarily refers to previously 

harvested areas. Approximately 43 percent (30 acres) of the remaining suitable acres are mapped as high 

volume strata, with the remaining 22 percent (15 acres) and 35 percent (24 acres) mapped as medium and 

low volume strata (Table TBR-4).

An estimated 69 acres of suitable lands mapped with a volume strata of low, medium, or high would be 

cleared under this alternative. Estimates developed using average ratios developed for the 2008 Forest 

Plan EIS indicate that this would involve the removal of 8,077 trees with gross and net sawlog volumes of 

approximately 2,216 MBF and 1,524 MBF, respectively (Table TBR-5). As noted above, these are very 

general estimates suitable mainly for the comparison of alternatives. The majority of these trees and 

estimated volumes would be permanently removed from the regional timber base. These estimates are the 

same for Alternatives 2 and 3 and lower than under Alternative 4.

Cumulative Effects

Timber harvest has occurred in the analysis area in the past. An estimated 10,734 acres of the NFS lands 

within the VCUs crossed by proposed alternatives, about 3 percent of the total NFS lands in this area, 

have been harvested since 1981. An estimated 45 acres or 6 percent of the total NFS lands that would be 

disturbed by this alternative have been harvested since 1981. There are several projects in the vicinity of 

the proposed project that are either presently occurring or are reasonably foreseeable. As with Alternative 
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Kake-Petersburg Intertie Preliminary Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Timber ▪ 3-71

2, an estimated 2.7 acres of the reasonably foreseeable Bocephus timber sale units are located within the 

analysis area for this alternative. 

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Alternative 4 would disturb an estimated total of 739 acres. This total includes both NFS and non-NFS 

lands, which account for 90 percent and 10 percent of the total respectively. The majority of the NFS 

lands are classified as forest land (630 acres; 85 percent of the overall total), with 253 acres (34 percent) 

classified as suitable forest land (Table TBR-3). Almost twice as many suitable acres would be disturbed 

under this alternative than under Alternatives 2 and 3, 253 acres versus 135 acres. Much of this 

difference consists of young-growth timber, with an estimated 166 acres disturbed under this alternative 

compared to 65 acres under Alternatives 2 and 3 (Table TBR-3).

Approximately two-thirds (66 percent; 166 acres) of the suitable forest land that would be disturbed under 

this alternative is classified as other from a volume strata perspective. “Other” in this case primarily 

refers to previously harvested areas. Approximately 18 percent (15 acres) of the remaining suitable acres 

are mapped as high volume strata, with the remaining 44 percent (38 acres) and 39 percent (33 acres) 

mapped as medium and low volume strata (Table TBR-4).

An estimated 87 acres of suitable lands mapped with a volume strata of low, medium, or high would be 

cleared under this alternative. Estimates developed using average ratios developed for the 2008 Forest 

Plan EIS indicate that this would involve the removal of 10,325 trees with gross and net sawlog volumes 

of approximately 2,488 MBF and 1,693 MBF, respectively (Table TBR-5). The majority of these trees 

and estimated volumes would be permanently removed from the regional timber base. 

Cumulative Effects

Timber harvest has occurred in the analysis area in the past. An estimated 10,734 acres of the NFS lands 

within the VCUs crossed by proposed alternatives, about 3 percent of the total NFS lands in this area, 

have been harvested since 1981. An estimated 81 acres or 12 percent of the total NFS lands that would be 

disturbed by this alternative have been harvested since 1981. There are several projects in the vicinity of 

the proposed project that are either presently occurring or are reasonably foreseeable. These projects are 

described at the beginning of this chapter and include timber harvesting, pre-commercial and commercial 

thinning, road improvement/building, and wildlife habitat restoration. Two reasonably foreseeable timber 

sales (Central Kupreanof and Tonka) include units that would be located within the analysis area for this 

alternative. The portions of these units within the analysis area total 29.7 acres. 

Mitigation

The effects of the KPI Project on timber resources would be limited through the site-specific application 

of Forest Plan standards and guidelines and R10 BMPs (see Chapter 2). 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-72 ▪ Chapter 3 – Botany Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Botany

Introduction 

This section provides an overview of the existing conditions of botanical resources and assesses the 

potential direct, indirect, and cumulative effects of the proposed project on these resources, including 

sensitive and rare plants. Sensitive plants are those found on the Alaska Region Sensitive Plant List. 

Rare plants are found on the Alaska Natural Heritage Program’s (ANKHP’s) Rare Vascular Plant List.

Only one species, Aleutian holly fern (Polystichum aleuticum C. Chris.), is listed as endangered in 

Alaska, and its known range is restricted to Adak Island in the Aleutian Islands. No proposed or federally 

listed plant species are known on the Tongass National Forest. A more detailed discussion of botanical 

resources can be found in the Botany Resource Report (Tetra Tech 2014d) and the Biological Evaluation 

for Plants (Tetra Tech 2014e).

Analysis Area 

The analysis area for direct, indirect, and cumulative effects to vegetation is the estimated disturbance 

footprint for the action alternatives. This area was selected as the analysis area because all project-related 

disturbances are expected to occur within this area. Cumulative effects to sensitive and rare plants are 

assessed for the analysis area as well as the broader area of Kupreanof and northern Mitkof Islands as 

many of the sensitive and rare plants have ranges that extend beyond the analysis area and species 

viability must take other populations into consideration. 

The three action alternatives follow one of two primary route corridors: the Northern route (Alternatives 2 and 3) 

and the Center-South route (Alternative 4) corridors. These terms (i.e., the Northern route and Center-South 

route corridors) are used in this section when discussing the analysis areas applicable to the different alternatives.

Methodology 

Field surveys were conducted for sensitive and rare plants within the analysis area from July 19-30, 2011. 

Prior to conducting these surveys, a pre-field review of the analysis area was completed (Tetra Tech 2011). 

Habitat information in the analysis area was assessed based on information obtained from GIS, reviews of 

aerial photographs, and discussions with Forest Service resource specialists. This review indicated that no 

species on the Alaska Region Sensitive Plant List had been previously documented on the Petersburg 

Ranger District or within the analysis area and only one species on the list, a lichen (Lobaria amplissima), 

had previously been documented on the District. General habitat types occurring within the analysis area 

include forest edge, coniferous forest, rocky areas, rock outcrops, gravel, seeps, wet areas, riparian areas, 

streambanks, ponds, shallow freshwater marshes, muskeg, fens, and sandy areas. Based on the pre-field 

review and the variety of habitats present, it was determined that four of the sensitive species on the Alaska 

Region Sensitive Plant List have a reasonable potential to occur in the analysis area (Table BOT-1).
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Botany ▪ 3-73

Table BOT-1. Known or Suspected Sensitive Plants in the Petersburg Ranger District with the 

Potential to Occur within the Analysis Area

Scientific Name Common Name Presence1/ Habitat

Cypripedium parviflorum

var. pubescens

Large yellow lady’s 

slipper orchid

Suspected Peatlands, occasionally on limestone substrates, 

open forested habitats

Lobaria amplissima None Known Coastal areas on the forest fringe, often on the 

water-side of tree boles and large limbs

Piperia unalascensis Alaska rein orchid Suspected Forested areas, roadsides and frequently on edges 

between forest and muskeg

Platanthera orbiculata Lesser round-leaved 

orchid

Suspected A variety of habitats, most commonly in forested 

habitats and along the forested muskeg edge. 

Found in both old and young growth.

1/ Known = known to occur in the Petersburg Ranger District 

Suspected = suspected to occur in the Petersburg Ranger District

Focused intuitive controlled surveys for sensitive and rare plants were conducted for the project. This 

survey type involves identifying suitable habitat for targeted species and then focusing the survey effort 

within those identified habitats. The field surveys for this project were conducted in July 2011, which is 

an appropriate time of year to identify target species. Field surveys included the two primary route 

corridors (i.e., the Northern Route and Center-South route corridors). Surveys were dispersed throughout 

the analysis areas in a variety of habitat types, elevations and aspects, and covered approximately 35 

percent of the total combined analysis area (i.e., the analysis areas for all three alternatives). Populations 

of sensitive plant species were not identified in the analysis areas during these field surveys; however, 

populations of four rare plant species were identified as a result of field surveys. The location of each 

population was mapped and digitized, and a plant count or estimate was made for each population. 

Plant Survey Field Forms and R10 Threatened and Endangered Species (TES) Plant Element Occurrence 

field forms were completed according to protocol for the Alaska Region (and can be found in the project

record). A detailed map showing the exact routes that the botanists travelled on the ground is also in the 

project record. A spreadsheet identifying all plant species observed in the analysis area, their general 

habitats, and the alternative route they occurred along was also prepared and included in the project 

record.

Information on general vegetation in the analysis area was primarily developed using existing GIS data 

for the area. Potential impacts were assessed based on the estimated disturbance footprint for the 

proposed action alternatives.

Affected Environment 

The analysis area is located on the Petersburg Ranger District on north Kupreanof and Mitkof Islands in 

Southeast Alaska. The Tongass National Forest, including Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands, is covered primarily 

by temperate rainforest consisting of Sitka spruce and western hemlock, with lesser amounts of mountain 

hemlock, Alaska yellow-cedar, and lodgepole pine. Red alder occupies riparian areas and other sites where 

bare mineral soils are exposed. The majority of the analysis area is occupied by old-growth forests and 

harvested timber areas, intermixed with muskeg, riparian plant communities, and beach habitat that are largely 

unaltered. Logging has occurred in forested areas on Kupreanof Island and plant communities in these areas 

have changed to early successional types that differ in character to old-growth forests. Regeneration is rapid 

and most of the logged areas are covered by dense stands of young-growth forests. The proposed project 

would primarily affect forested and muskeg vegetation types present in the analysis area. 

Sensitive Plants

A total of 18 plant species, including one lichen, have been designated as Sensitive on the Alaska 

Regional Forester’s list; 16 of these are known or suspected to occur on the Tongass National Forest. 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-74 ▪ Chapter 3 – Botany Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

One of these species, Lobaria amplissima, has been documented on the Petersburg Ranger District. The 

Petersburg Ranger District is also within the potential range of an additional 8 species; however, only 3 of 

these species are likely to occur in habitats found within the analysis area. Table BOT-1 summarizes the 

general habitat requirements of the 4 sensitive plant species that are either known to occur or suspected to 

occur on the Petersburg Ranger District and have the potential to occur in the analysis area. No 

populations of sensitive species were located during surveys of the analysis area.

Large Yellow Lady’s Slipper (Cypripedium parviflorum var. pubescens)

Large yellow lady’s slipper orchid grows in peatlands and open forested areas, occassionally on limestone 

substrates (USDA Forest Service 2009d). This species is suspected to occur on the Petersburg Ranger 

District, but was not observed during the botanical field surveys conducted for this project. 

Lobaria Amplissima

Lobaria amplissima grows on the trunks and large branches of living trees and has been found on several 

different tree species (USDA Forest Service 2009d). Typical habitat for Lobaria amplissima is exposed, 

windswept coastal areas on the forested fringe, often on the water side of living tree boles and large limbs 

of several different tree species (USDA Forest Service 2009d). Although Lobaria amplissima has been 

documented on the Petersburg Ranger District, it was not observed during field surveys of potential 

habitat (i.e., coastal areas crossed by the action alternatives) conducted for the proposed project. 

Alaska Rein Orchid (Piperia unalascensis)

Alaska rein orchid grows in dry, open sites, under tall shrubs in riparian zones, mesic meadows and drier 

areas in coniferous and mixed evergreen forests from low elevation to subalpine (USDA Forest Service 

2009d). This species is often found at the edge of muskeg and old-growth forest, although it has also 

been observed in the interior of forested areas and along road edges. Alaska rein orchid is suspected on 

the Petersburg Ranger District. Although it was not observed during field surveys conducted for the 

proposed project, potential habitat is present within the analysis area. 

Lesser Round-leaved Orchid (Platanthera orbiculata)

Lesser round-leaved orchid may be found in a variety of habitats, including low elevation forested 

wetlands, medium to high volume old-growth hemlock forests, forest edges or near gaps in otherwise 

shady forests, and next to open water or boggy areas (USDA Forest Service 2009d). It is most commonly 

found in forested habitats and along the forested muskeg edge on the Tongass National Forest, and has 

been found in both old and young-growth forests. The lesser round-leaved orchid is suspected to occur in 

the Petersburg Ranger District but has not been documented. This plant was not observed during field 

surveys, although potential habitat is present in the analysis area.

Rare Plants

Rare plant species with known or suspected occurrences on the Tongass National Forest are evaluated 

based on the ANKHP’s 2012 Rare Vascular Plant List (AKNHP 2012). The list includes species with a 

State Ranking of S1, S2, or occasionally S3, excluding species that are already listed as Sensitive on the 

Tongass National Forest. The list may change with plants added or dropped as additional information on 

plant viability, distribution, and taxonomy is learned. 

Four rare plant species were found during surveys within the analysis area: rattlesnake fern (Botrychium 

virginianum), Bebb’s sedge (Carex bebbii), sawbeak sedge (Carex stipata var. stipata), and bog clubmoss 

(Lycopodiella inundata). Summary information is presented for these species in Table BOT-2, which 

also identifies the approximate location where each species was observed in the analysis area.
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Table BOT-2. Rare Plants Observed within the Analysis Area 

Scientific 

Name

Common 

Name

Global 

Rank/ 

State Rank Typical Habitat

Population Number 

and Estimated 

Population Size Location in the Analysis Area

Habitat and Estimated 

Distance from Existing Road

Botrychium 

virginianum

Rattlesnake 

fern

G5 / S3 Moist woods, 

thickets, 

meadows

#1 (30) Along the Northern route 

corridor; near Kake

All plants on disturbed road 

prism

#2 (20) Near Kake where the action 

alternatives all share the same 

alignment

Undisturbed diverse wet 

meadow, approximately 50 -

100 feet from road edge.

#3 (20) South of Hamilton Bay along the 

Center-South route corridor 

Undisturbed diverse wet 

meadow, approximately 50 

feet from road edge.

Carex bebbii Bebb’s 

sedge

G5 / S1S21 Wet meadows, 

streambanks, 

roadside ditches

#1 (<5) Just south of Portage Bay near 

Fish Creek within the Northern 

route corridor

Within 50 feet of road edge in 

previously disturbed muskeg.

Carex stipata 

var. stipata

Sawbeak 

sedge

G5 / S21 Marshes, thicket 

edges, wet 

habitats

#1 (<5) South of Portage Bay near Fish 

Creek within the Northern route 

corridor

Within 50 feet of road edge in 

previously disturbed muskeg.

#2 (7) Along the Northern route 

corridor; near Kake

Undisturbed diverse wet 

meadow approximately 50 feet 

from road edge.

Lycopodiella 

inundata

Bog 

clubmoss

G5/ S31 Sphagnum bogs, 

wet shores in 

lowlands

#1 (2x2 foot mat) Between Portage Bay and 

Hamilton Bay along the Northern 

route corridor

Undisturbed muskeg habitat, 

approximately 75 feet from 

road edge.

Note:

1/ Indicates that the rank is preliminary (AKNHP 2012)

Sources: Hitchcock and Cronquist 1973; Hulten 1968; Wilson et al. 2008
3 Environment and Effects 

3-76 ▪ Chapter 3 – Botany Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Rattlesnake Fern

Rattlesnake fern is a distinctive, perennial fern species that is widely distributed across North America 

and that typically grows in moist woods, thickets, and meadows. It is known to occur in at least 20 

locations in Alaska (AKNHP 2012), including 12 locations on the Tongass National Forest, none of 

which are on the Petersburg Ranger District. Rattlesnake fern has been assigned a rank of S3 in Alaska, 

indicating that within the State of Alaska this plant is rare or uncommon (AKNHP 2012). 

Three small rattlesnake fern populations, with an estimated total of 70 plants, were observed southeast of Kake 

during the field surveys conducted for this project (Table BOT-2; Figure BOT-1). Two populations were 

observed within the analysis area for the Northern route corridor (Alternatives 2 and 3) and one population was 

observed within the analysis area for the Center-South route corridor (Alternative 4). Two of these populations --

one along the Northern route corridor and one along the Center-South route corridor – were observed within 

undisturbed, highly diverse wet meadow habitat. The third population (observed along the Northern route 

corridor) was located within disturbed habitat of an existing road prism. 

Bebb’s Sedge

Bebb’s sedge, a cespitose perennial sedge species with crowded roundish red-brown spikes, typically 

grows in wet meadows, stream banks, roadside ditches, in low elevation areas, and in the mountains 

(Wilson et al. 2008). Its distribution is widespread across North America. Bebb’s sedge is known from 

three locations in Alaska (AKNHP 2012), none of which are on the Tongass National Forest. Bebb’s 

sedge has been assigned a preliminary rank of S1S2 in Alaska, indicating that within the State of Alaska 

this plant is between critically imperiled (S1) and imperiled (S2) (AKNHP 2012). One small population

(approximately five plants) of Bebb’s sedge was located in previously disturbed muskeg habitat along an 

existing road south of Portage Bay near Fish Creek along the Northern route corridor (Table BOT-2; 

Figure BOT-1). 

Sawbeak Sedge

Sawbeak sedge, a densely cespitose sedge species with large spikey inflorescence, typically grows in 

marshes, thicket edges, and other wet spots with still water, usually in full sun, at low to moderate 

elevations (Wilson et al. 2008). Except for some southeastern states, it is widespread across North 

America. Sawbeak sedge is known from five locations in Alaska (AKNHP 2012), including one location 

on the Tongass National Forest in the Petersburg District at the south end of Mitkof Island. Sawbeak 

sedge has been assigned a preliminary rank of S2 in Alaska, indicating that within the State of Alaska this 

plant is imperiled because of rarity (AKNHP 2012). Two small populations (with an estimated total of 

approximately 10 plants) of sawbeak’s sedge were observed during surveys of the analysis area; one 

south of Portage Bay near Fish Creek and the other southeast of Kake (Table BOT-2; Figure BOT-1). 

Both populations were observed along the Northern route corridor. One population was located in a 

previously disturbed muskeg habitat near a gravel road, and the other was in a previously undisturbed 

diverse wet meadow.

Bog Clubmoss

Bog clubmoss is a creeping perennial, nonflowering plant that grows low to the ground, and typically 

grows in muskegs, wetlands, and swampy ground (Washington Natural Heritage Program 2012). This 

species is widespread across northern North America and is known from 14 locations in Alaska (AKNHP 

2012), including five locations on the Tongass National Forest. Bog clubmoss has been assigned a 

preliminary rank of S3 in Alaska, indicating that within the State of Alaska this plant is rare or uncommon 

(AKNHP 2012). One small population (covering an area of approximately 4 square-feet) of bog 

clubmoss was observed in undisturbed muskeg habitat between Portage Bay and Hamilton Bay along the 

Northern route corridor (Table BOT-2; Figure BOT-1).
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Botany ▪ 3-77

Figure BOT-1. Location of Rare Plants
3 Environment and Effects 

3-78 ▪ Chapter 3 – Botany Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

General Vegetation Types

Three primary general vegetation types are present in the analysis area: old-growth, young-growth and 

non-forested areas (Table BOT-3). Old-growth forests are divided into productive and non-productive 

old-growth categories. Only productive old-growth contains high volume timber resources. However, 

both productive and non-productive old-growth take a long time to develop structurally, and may contain 

unique botantical resources, including sensitive and rare plants. Additional details regarding productive 

old-growth and non-productive old-growth are included in the Timber and Wildlife and Subsistence Use 

sections of this EIS. Old-growth forests, as a share of the area that would be disturbed by each alternative 

(i.e., the analysis area for each alternative), ranges from 36.7 percent for Alternative 2 to 40.1 percent for 

Alternative 4 (Table BOT-3).

Young-growth in the analysis area is generally the result of even-aged harvesting methods, although a 

small amount (about 1 percent) is the result of natural disturbances such as landslides and blowdown. 

Young-growth characteristics vary with age, with the youngest stands typically densely vegateted with a 

mix of young saplings and a dense shrub layer. As these stands progress in age, they develop a canopy 

that is predominantly closed and consequently has limited understory vegetation. Timber harvest on 

Kupreanof Island generally began in the 1960s, with peak harvests occuring in the 1980s. Age classes of 

young-growth in the analysis area range from recently harvested to about 50 years old. Young-growth 

forest as a share of the area that would be disturbed by each alternative ranges from 15.4 percent for 

Alternative 2 to 33 percent for Alternative 4 (Table BOT-3).

The majority of non-forested vegetation in the analysis area is non-forested wetland types, with small 

amounts of water, rock, and urban areas. The non-forested wetland types include a diverse array of 

vegetation types. Botanical resources in these areas vary widely by landscape position, hydrological 

regime, and soil type. Additional information on wetlands is provided in the Wetlands section of this 

EIS. Non-forested land as a share of the area that would be disturbed by each alternative ranges from 

26.9 percent for Alternative 4 to 47.9 percent for Alternative 2 (Table BOT-3).

Table BOT-3. General Vegetation Types in the Analysis Area 

Vegetation Type

Alternative 2 Alternative 3 Alternative 4

Acres 

Percent of 

Total Acres 

Percent 

of Total Acres 

Percent 

of Total

Old-growth 327.1 36.7 323.6 37.1 296.4 40.1

Young-growth (Past Harvest) 137.5 15.4 137.5 15.7 244.2 33.0

Non-Forested 426.5 47.9 412.0 47.2 198.8 26.9

Total 891.0 100 873.1 100 739.4 100

Note:

1/ Totals may not sum due to rounding.

Environmental Effects 

Effects Common to All Alternatives 

Direct and Indirect Effects

The project has the potential to have direct, indirect, and cumulative effects on vegetation, including

sensitive and rare plant species. The direct, indirect, and cumulative effects of the project are used to 

determine the risk the project poses to botanical resources that may potentially be affected. This is 

conducted through a risk assessment, which is included in the Biological Evaluation for Plants prepared 

for this project (Tetra Tech 2014e). 
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Direct effects are those that would occur immediately or soon after the implementation of the action 

(Dillman et al. 2009). Direct effects of the proposed project may include the following:

• Physical Damage – Individual plants, entire populations, or habitat may be destroyed or damaged 

through crushing by logging equipment and other activities associated with transmission line 

construction. Use of existing roads could bury or remove plants located in the road bed or along 

the perimeter of the road. This could also be the case with the shovel trails and temporary access 

trails that would be used for access during construction.

Indirect effects are those effects that are reasonably likely to occur at a later point in time after the project 

has been implemented (such as changes in hydrology or intensified or decreased of solar radiation) 

(Dillman et al. 2009). Indirect effects of the proposed project may include the following: 

• Hydrology – Roads can alter the hydrology, as surface and ground water may be redirected and 

channelized by roadside ditches, altering the hydrologic regime. Increased water levels may 

result in the death or decline in vigor of plants not adapted to a high water table. Conversely, 

plants adapted to wetland conditions may become dessicated by a decrease in water availabilty. 

Additionally, removal of tree or shrub cover can result in changes in light, temperature, and soil 

moisture (Heithecker and Halpern 2007), potentially beyond the tolerance levels of some species. 

No new roads are proposed under any of the alternatives.

• Light Levels – Partial or complete removal of the tree canopy results in an increase in the light 

levels in the understory, potentially resulting in light levels beyond the tolerance for some shade 

dependent species (Heithecker and Halpern 2007). Once the stand regenerates, light levels will 

decrease with increasing canopy cover due to high density of small conifers. This may also alter 

light requirements for many species, including sensitive and rare plants. 

• Invasive Plants – Increased light levels associated with right-of-way clearing or other ground 

disturbing activities associated with construction and maintenance of the transmission line could 

result in the introduction or spread of invasive plant species. Invasive species can outcompete 

native species and colonize preferred habitat. The direct and indirect effects of invasive plants

are further described in the Invasive Plants section of this EIS. 

Sensitive Plant Species

None of the alternatives would have direct or indirect effects on known populations of sensitive plant 

species. Although large yellow lady’s slipper, lesser round-leaved orchid, and Alaska rein orchid are not 

known on the Petersburg Ranger District and were not observed during field surveys of the analysis areas, 

transmission line construction and associated activities could affect undetected populations and potential 

habitat for these species. Direct effects could occur through damage by machinery and movement of 

native material during construction of temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs, structure 

placement, or vegetation clearing activities. Indirect effects are also possible, potentially occurring as a 

result of light level changes, and soil moisture or hydrology changes as a result of disturbances to soils 

and/or canopy closures. 

Both Alaska rein orchid and lesser round-leaved orchid grow in a variety of habitats, thus, much of the 

proposed disturbance that would result from the action alternatives has the potential to disturb potential 

habitat and undetected individuals of these species. In the analysis area, peatlands, which provide 

potential habitat for large yellow lady’s slipper, are generally categorized as moss muskeg wetlands. 

Impacts to moss muskeg habitat from each of the action alternatives is discussed below for each 

alternative. Further discussion of impacts to moss muskeg habitat can be found in the Wetlands section 

of this EIS.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-80 ▪ Chapter 3 – Botany Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

The overall risk to large yellow lady’s slipper, Alaska rein orchid, and lesser round-leaved orchid under 

the action alternatives is low to moderate since not all habitat within the analysis area was surveyed and 

undectected individuals could potentially be impacted by construction of the project. The action 

alternatives may adversely impact individuals, but are not likely to result in a loss of viability of these 

plant species in the analysis area, nor cause a trend toward federal listing (Tetra Tech 2014e).

Unlike the three sensitive species discussed above, Lobaria amplissima is known to occur on the 

Petersburg Ranger District. Potential habitat within the analysis area (i.e., marine crossings) was 

surveyed for Lobaria amplissima, and this lichen was not observed during these surveys. Other potential 

habitat exists within the 1,000 foot buffer of the beach fringe. Since not all areas of potential habitat were 

surveyed, the overall risk is considered low to moderate similar to that described above for the large 

yellow lady’s slipper, Alaska rein orchid, and lesser round-leaved orchid.

Rare Plants

Four rare plants are known to occur within the analysis area. Each of the action alternatives could have 

impacts on rattlesnake fern, as this species as well as its suitable habitat were observed near existing roads 

that would be used during construction of the project. Alternatives 2 and 3 could have impacts on Bebb’s 

sedge, sawbeak sedge, and bog clubmoss, as these three rare plants were observed within the Northern 

route corridor’s analysis area (near existing roads). 

Direct effects to rare plants could occur through damage by machinery and movement of native material 

during construction. Indirect effects are also possible, potentially occurring as a result of light level 

changes or soil moisture changes resulting from project activities. In addition, transmission line 

construction activities under the proposed action alternatives could affect potential habitat for these 

species and thus potentially affect undetected populations. 

General Vegetation

Direct impacts to old-growth, young-growth, and non-forested vegetation communities would result from 

structure installation, use of temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs, helicopter pads, and 

right-of-way clearing (see Table BOT-4). Forested areas that are cleared for structures, permanent 

helicopter pads, or right-of-way clearing would be permanently maintained as an early successional 

vegetation type (either very young-growth or scrub-shrub vegetation). Vegetation clearing would have 

minimal impacts to non-forested vegetation communities, including forested muskeg. The majority of the 

trees in this vegetation type are small and stunted, which suggests that project-related clearing would have 

minimal impacts in these areas. However, it is possible that scattered tall trees present in forested muskeg 

or infrequently in other predominantly non-forested areas may be cleared in the right-of-way. Temporary 

access spurs outside the proposed rights-of-way would eventually be revegetated and become younggrowth forest. However, these impacts would change the structural and species composition of oldgrowth forest, resulting in a shift towards early successional species and the loss of shade-dependent, late 

seral plants. 

Indirect effects on old-growth and young-growth forest could occur through blow down of adjacent stands 

as a result of clearing in the analysis area. Indirect effects could also result from invasive plant spread. 

Due to the lack of a forested canopy, disturbance, and high light levels, non-forested areas would be at a 

higher risk for invasive plant establishment than forested areas. Impacts to general vegetation in the 

analysis area are further discussed, by alternative, in the sections below. 
Environment and Effects 3

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Table BOT-4. General Vegetation Impacts by Action Alternative (acres)

Impact Type (acres)

Old Growth Young Growth Non-Forested Total

Alternative

2 3 4 2 3 4 2 3 4 2 3 4

Structure Installation 34.8 34.9 40.4 27.7 27.7 51.0 83.3 83.4 42.8 145.8 146.0 134.2

Shovel Trails 9.5 9.5 4.1 0.8 0.8 0.6 18.0 18.0 3.4 28.3 28.3 8.1

Temporary Matting Panels 0.0 0.0 2.2 0.0 0.0 2.5 2.5 6.8 2.5 2.5 9.0

Temporary Access Spurs 3.0 3.0 2.8 2.4 2.4 2.9 4.8 4.8 2.3 10.2 10.2 7.9

Helicopter Pads 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.4 0.4 0.2

Right-of-Way Clearing 279.7 276.1 246.7 106.6 106.6 189.7 317.4 303.0 143.5 703.7 685.7 579.9

Total 327.1 323.6 296.4 137.5 137.5 244.2 426.4 412.0 198.8 891.0 873.1 739.4

Note:

1/ Numbers may not sum due to rounding.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-82 ▪ Chapter 3 – Botany Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 is the no action alternative and is analyzed to provide a baseline for evaluation of the 

impacts associated with the action alternatives. Under this alternative, the Forest Service would not 

provide authorization for the proposed project and a new electric transmission line and related facilities 

would not be built. The proposed project would have no effect on botanical resources, including rare and 

sensitive plant species.

Cumulative Effects

The proposed project would not be approved or built under this alternative and would, therefore, not 

contribute cumulatively to the effects of other reasonably foreseeable projects in the analysis area.

Alternatives 2 and 3

Direct and Indirect Effects

Sensitive Plant Species

Potential direct and indirect effects to sensitive plant species are as described above in the Effects 

Common to All Alternatives section, with the exception of potential impacts to habitat for large yellow 

lady’s slipper. Potential impacts to large yellow lady’s slipper habitat that could occur under Alternatives 

2 and 3 are discussed here. Approximately 102 and 100 acres of habitat for large yellow lady’s slipper 

(i.e., moss muskeg) could be impacted by structure installation, use of temporary shovel trails and 

temporary access spurs, helicopter pads, and right-of-way clearing under Alternatives 2 and 3 

respectively. However, these estimates likely overstate the acres that would be affected because they 

assume that all moss muskeg in the rights-of-way would be cleared (81 acres and 79 acres for 

Alternatives 2 and 3, respectively; see Table WET-2). Structure installation, use of temporary shovel 

trails and temporary access spurs, and helicopter pads would result in some impacts to moss muskeg. 

However, this habitat type mainly consists of low-lying vegetation with scattered tall trees and much of 

the remaining right-of-way in moss muskeg would not need to be cleared. Alternatives 2 and 3 would 

both affect more acres of moss muskeg habitat than Alternative 4.

Rare Plant Species

Alternatives 2 and 3 would have direct effects to one known population of rattlesnake fern (Population 

#1) because this population was located within the road prism of an existing NFS road that would be used 

under these two alternatives (Table BOT-2). Direct effects could occur through trampling and crushing 

by construction vehicles and personnel traveling along the road prism. Alternatives 2 and 3 could also 

result in direct and/or indirect effects to one of the other populations of this species observed during 

surveys within the analysis area (Population #2) depending on final placement of transmission poles as 

well as temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs.

Alternatives 2 and 3 could also result in direct and or indirect effects to known populations of Bebb’s 

sedge (Population #1), sawbeak sedge (Populations #1 and #2), and bog clubmoss (Population #1) 

depending on the final placement of transmission poles and temporary shovel trails and temporary access 

spurs (Table BOT-2). Direct effects to populations of Bebb’s sedge, sawbeak sedge, and bog clubmoss 

could occur through damage by construction machinery and personnel, as well as through movement of 

native material during structure installation and construction of temporary shovel trails and temporary 

access spurs. 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Botany ▪ 3-83

Indirect effects to rattlesnake fern, Bebb’s sedge, sawbeak sedge, and bog clubmoss are also possible, 

potentially occurring as a result of light level or soil moisture changes, as well as the potential 

introduction of invasive plant species resulting from project activities. 

In addition to direct and indirect effects to known populations, the project could directly or indirectly 

affect potential habitat for rattlesnake fern, Bebb’s sedge, sawbeak sedge, and bog clubmoss, and, thus,

potentially affect undetected populations of these species. 

General Vegetation

Direct and indirect effects to old-growth, young-growth, and non-forested vegetation types under 

Alternatives 2 and 3 are as described under Effects Common to All Action Alternatives. Alternatives 2 

and 3 would affect very similar amounts of old-growth and young-growth forest, as indicated in Table 

BOT-4. These alternatives would affect more old-growth and non-forested areas than Alternative 4 and 

fewer young-growth forest areas.

Cumulative Effects

Sensitive Plant Species

Not all suitable habitat for large yellow lady’s slipper orchid, Alaska rein orchid, and lesser round-leaved 

orchid within the analysis areas has been surveyed to date; as a result, impacts to these species are 

possible. Cumulative effects to these sensitive plant species due to past, present, and reasonably 

foreseeable projects are also possible. Past projects may have impacted undetected or unknown 

individuals or habitat of these three sensitive species in the analysis area. Similarly, current or future 

projects that involve habitat disturbance could affect undetected individuals or habitat within the analysis 

area. The overall risk to these sensitive plant species on the Tongass National Forest as a result of any of 

the action alternatives, viewed in conjunction with other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable 

projects, is low to moderate due to possible adverse effects to habitat or unknown populations of sensitive 

plant species. 

Potential habitat within the analysis area (i.e., marine crossings) was surveyed for Lobaria amplissima

and this species was not detected during these surveys. Other potential habitat exists within the 1,000 

foot buffer of the beach fringe. Since not all areas of potential habitat were surveyed, the overall risk, 

viewed in conjunction with other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, is considered 

moderate similar to that described above for the large yellow lady’s slipper, Alaska rein orchid, and lesser 

round-leaved orchid.

Rare Plant Species

Cumulative effects to the rare plant species, including rattlesnake fern, Bebb’s sedge, sawbeak sedge, and 

bog clubmoss, due to past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects are possible. Past projects may 

have affected undetected individuals or habitat in the analysis area. Similarly, current or future projects 

that involve habitat disturbance could affect undetected individuals or habitat. If direct or indirect 

impacts were to occur to these species under Alternatives 2 or 3, these impacts would incrementally 

contribute to other past, existing, or reasonably foreseeable projects affecting individuals or habitat for 

these species.

General Vegetation

Cumulative effects to old-growth, young-growth, and non-forested vegetation would occur as a result of 

past, present, and future projects. Reasonably foreseeable projects in the analysis areas crossed by the 

proposed KPI alternatives include the Bocephus, Central Kupreanof, Scott Peak, and Tonka timber sales. 

A total of 8.8 acres of harvest is expected to occur from these timber sales within the analysis areas 

crossed by Alternatives 2 and 3. Three other larger sales—Bicycle Timber Sale, No Name, part of NW 

Kupreanof EIS (2013, 2014), and No Name, part of NW Kupreanof EIS (2015), are proposed for three 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-84 ▪ Chapter 3 – Botany Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

VCUs on north Kupreanof Island; two of these VCUs would be crossed by this alternative. Although 

approximate acres have been identified for each sale, units have not been identified and the distribution of 

these acres among the three VCUs is unknown. Parts of these units could coincide with Alternatives 2 

and 3. The KPI Project would incrementally add to these past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future 

projects. As the exact extent of reasonably foreseeable future projects that could overlap with the KPI 

project is unknown at this time, the exact extent and magnitude of these cumulative effects is also 

unknown. However, the extent of these cumulative effects would be minimized by the standards and 

guidelines established in the Forest Plan to manage this area.

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route

Direct and Indirect Effects

Sensitive Plant Species

Direct and indirect effects to sensitive plant species are as described above in the Effects Common to All 

Alternatives section with the exception of potential impacts to habitat for large yellow lady’s slipper. 

Potential impacts to large yellow lady’s slipper habitat that could occur under Alternative 4 are discussed 

here. Approximately 67 acres of habitat for large yellow lady’s slipper (i.e., moss muskeg) would 

potentially be impacted by structure installation, use of temporary shovel trails and temporary access 

spurs, helicopter pads, and right-of-way clearing under Alternative 4. However, this estimate likely 

overstates the acres that would be affected because it assumes that all moss muskeg in the right-of-way 

would be cleared (55 acres; see Table WET-2). Structure installation, use of temporary shovel trails and 

temporary access spurs, and helicopter pads would result in some impacts to moss muskeg. However, 

this habitat type mainly consists of low-lying vegetation with scattered tall trees and much of the 

remaining right-of-way in moss muskeg would not need to be cleared. Alternative 4 would affect fewer 

acres of moss muskeg habitat than Alternatives 2 and 3.

Rare Plant Species

Alternative 4 could result in direct and/or indirect effects to one known population of rattlesnake fern

observed during surveys within the analysis area (Population #2) depending on final placement of 

transmission poles as well as temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs (Table BOT-4). No 

direct or indirect impacts to known populations of Bebb’s sedge, sawbeak sedge, or bog clubmoss would 

result from Alternative 4 as these species were not detected in this area during surveys; however, habitat 

for these species is present along this alternative and could be impacted. Project construction activities 

under Alternative 4 could directly affect potential habitat for sensitive species, and thus, potentially affect 

undetected populations. 

Indirect effects to rattlesnake fern, Bebb’s sedge, sawbeak sedge, and bog clubmoss are also possible, 

potentially occurring as a result of light level or soil moisture changes or introduction of invasive plant 

species resulting from project activities. 

General Vegetation

Direct and indirect effects to old-growth, young-growth, and non-forested vegetation types under this 

alternative are as described under Effects Common to All Action Alternatives. Alternative 4 would 

impact approximately 297 acres of old-growth forests, 244 acres of young-growth forests, and 199 acres 

of non-forested areas (Table BOT-4). Alternative 4 would impact more young-growth forest areas than 

Alternatives 2 and 3 and fewer old-growth and non-forested areas.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Botany ▪ 3-85

Cumulative Effects

Sensitive Plant Species

Not all suitable habitat for large yellow lady’s slipper orchid, Alaska rein orchid, and lesser round-leaved 

orchid within the analysis areas has been surveyed to date; as a result, impacts to these species are 

possible. Cumulative effects to these sensitive plant species due to past, present, and reasonably 

foreseeable projects are also possible. Past projects may have impacted undetected or unknown 

individuals or habitat of these three sensitive species in the analysis area. Similarly, current or future 

projects that involve habitat disturbance could affect undetected individuals or habitat within the analysis 

area. The overall risk to these sensitive plant species on the Tongass National Forest as a result of any of 

the action alternatives, viewed in conjunction with other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable 

projects, is moderate due to possible adverse effects to habitat or unknown populations of sensitive plant 

species. 

Potential habitat within the analysis area (i.e., marine crossings) was surveyed for Lobaria amplissima

and this species was not detected during these surveys. Other potential habitat exists within the 1,000 

foot buffer of the beach fringe. Since not all areas of potential habitat were surveyed, the overall risk, 

viewed in conjunction with other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects, is considered 

moderate similar to that described above for the large yellow lady’s slipper, Alaska rein orchid, and lesser 

round-leaved orchid.

Rare Plant Species

Cumulative effects to the rare plant species, including rattlesnake fern, Bebb’s sedge, sawbeak sedge, and 

bog clubmoss, due to past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects are possible. Past projects may 

have affected undetected individuals or habitat in the analysis area. Similarly, current or future projects 

that involve habitat disturbance could affect undetected individuals or habitat. If direct or indirect 

impacts were to occur to these species under Alternative 4, these impacts would incrementally contribute 

to other past, existing, or reasonably foreseeable projects affecting individuals or habitat for these species.

General Vegetation

Cumulative effects to old-growth, young-growth, and non-forested vegetation would occur as a result of 

past, present, and future projects. Reasonably foreseeable projects in the analysis areas crossed by the 

proposed KPI alternatives include the Bocephus, Central Kupreanof, Scott Peak, and Tonka timber sales. 

A total of 88 acres of harvest is expected to occur from these timber sales within the analysis area crossed 

by this alternative. The KPI Project would incrementally add to the impacts of these past, present, and 

reasonably foreseeable future projects. As the exact extent of reasonably foreseeable future projects that 

could overlap with the KPI Project is unknown at this time, the exact extent and magnitude of these 

cumulative effects is also unknown. However, the extent of these cumulative effects would be minimized 

by the standards and guidelines established in the Forest Plan to manage this area.

Mitigation 

The effects of the KPI Project on botany would be limited through the site-specific application of Forest 

Plan standards and guidelines and project-specific mitigation measures (see Chapter 2). Mitigation would 

also include the following measures to reduce the risks to rare species in the analysis area. 

• Direct effects to all of these populations except to the rattlesnake fern Population 1 (which was 

located within an existing road prism) could be avoided or minimized by locating transmission 

line structures and other project activities away from rare plant populations. 

• Avoid project-related road maintenance in the area of the road prism adjacent to Population #1 of 

rattlesnake fern.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-86 ▪ Chapter 3 – Botany Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

• If any previously undiscovered rare or sensitive plants are encountered at any time prior to or 

during implementation of this proposed project, the Forest Service botanist/ecologist shall be 

notified. Following review of the population, avoidance measures or mitigation measures will be 

applied. 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Invasive Plants ▪ 3-87

Invasive Plants

Introduction 

This section provides an overview of the current condition related to invasive plants in the project area and 

summarizes the potential direct, indirect, and cumulative effects to invasive plants as a result of project 

activities. 

An invasive plant is an alien plant whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic or 

environmental harm, or harm to human health (Executive Order 13112). Invasive plants are capable of 

successfully expanding their populations into new ecosystems beyond their natural range. 

In 2011, the Tongass National Forest adopted new guidelines for invasive plant management in the form 

of a supplement to Forest Service Manual (FSM) 2900, which includes development of a risk assessment 

as part of an environmental analysis for ground-disturbing activities. This section of the EIS follows that 

process for an invasive plant risk assessment. The 2008 Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service 2008a) 

contains direction on invasive species, which includes the overall context of desired conditions (see 

Biodiversity goals and objectives), as well as standards and guidelines for invasive species. This 

direction is based on a number of laws, but most directly on Executive Order 13112, which directs all 

Federal agencies to address the impacts that their actions may have on invasive species. 

The Tongass National Forest High-Priority Invasive Plant Species List (see Appendix A of the Invasive 

Plant Risk Assessment prepared for this project [Opolka 2012a]) is a list of target plants for which the 

Forest is most concerned. This list uses the Alaska Natural Heritage Program’s (ANHP’s) Weed Ranking 

Project results to rank the invasiveness of each species.3

 This ranking process takes into account the 

following characteristics for each plant: potential ecological impact, biological characteristics, dispersal 

ability, current distribution, and the feasibility of control. Plants are then ranked on a scale of 0 to 100, 

with 100 having the highest invasiveness rank. Those species known to occur on the Forest, as well as 

several species that have not been documented on the Forest to date, with a ranking higher than 60 are 

highlighted for management concerns. In addition to the target list of high priority species, the Tongass is 

also concerned about other species not on this list, depending on their abundance, location, and threats to 

ecosystem functions and/or biodiversity. 

Analysis Area 

The analysis area for direct, indirect, and cumulative effects related to invasive plants is the estimated 

disturbance footprint for the action alternatives. This area was selected as the analysis area because all 

project-related disturbances are expected to occur within this area. Although this approach results in three 

separate analysis areas, one for each action alternative, these three areas are referred to collectively as the 

analysis area in the following section. The level of cumulative effects that may occur in the future due to 

these activities will depend on the rate at which new projects are implemented and the success rate in 

reducing or eliminating known populations of invasive plants and implementing BMPs to reduce the 

potential introduction of invasive plant species associated with existing and new projects.

 3 See http://akweeds.uaa.alaska.edu/akweeds_ranking_page.htm
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3-88 ▪ Chapter 3 – Invasive Plants Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Methodology 

Field Surveys

Invasive plant surveys were conducted under contract in 2006 on the road system from Kake for all 

Maintenance Level (ML) 3 and 4 roads. Surveys were conducted every 0.25 mile along each road, as 

well as at each intersection and rock quarry encountered. Surveys were done at the appropriate time of 

year to identify the broadest range possible of non-native and invasive plant species. 

In addition to the contract invasive plant surveys conducted in 2006, surveys were conducted for the 

proposed project in 2011 in conjunction with botanical surveys. Surveys were conducted along portions 

of the analysis areas for the Proposed Action (Alternative 2) and other action alternatives (Alternatives 3 

and 4). Surveys were dispersed throughout the analysis areas in a variety of habitat types, elevations and 

aspects, and covered a total of 38 miles, approximately 35 percent of the total combined analysis area

(i.e., the analysis areas for all three alternatives). The surveys included roadways and a variety of natural 

habitats, including muskegs, young-growth and old-growth forests, and riparian areas. Infestations of

invasive plants of interest observed during these surveys were documented using a global positioning 

system (GPS) unit. 

Invasive Plant Risk Assessment

An invasive plant risk assessment was conducted for the proposed project in accordance with FSM 2080 

(USDA Forest Service 2011a), which requires an invasive plant risk assessment for ground-disturbing 

activities. The risk assessment evaluates the locations of known invasive plants, existing habitat 

vulnerability, and the potential response of invasive plants as a result of project actions that could result in 

habitat alteration and increased vectors. Additional details regarding the basis of the risk assessment are 

included below in the Environmental Consequences section. The invasive plant risk assessment (Opolka 

2012a) can be found in the project record.

Affected Environment 

Known Invasive Plants

A total of 42 non-native plant species are known to occur within the analysis area, 6 of which are 

classified as high priority invasive plants. Of these 6 plants, 1 plant (tansy ragwort) was not observed on 

NFS lands during field surveys of the analysis area. An additional species of Hieracium was observed on 

NFS lands during field surveys and is noted below (Table INV-1). This plant was not identified to 

species; however, since it may be invasive and a plant of interest to control, it is noted below. Table INV1 summarizes the occurrences and invasiveness rank of high priority invasive plant species identified 

during the project-related surveys. Invasive plant distribution maps for the high priority species are 

available in the project record.

Table INV-1. High Priority Invasive Plant Species found in the Analysis Area

Scientific Name Common Name

Invasiveness Rank

(0-100)1/ Number of Populations and Location2/

Hieracium 

aurantiacum 

orange hawkweed 79 1 population near proposed Structure 730 

along Alternative 4; additional populations

on Mitkof Island (not on NFS lands)

Hieracium spp.3/ unknown hawkweed n/a 2 populations near proposed structures 728-

729 and 686 along Alternative 4.

Hieracium 

caespitosum

meadow hawkweed n/a 4 populations on Mitkof Island along the 

Alternative 4 (not on NFS lands)
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Invasive Plants ▪ 3-89

Table INV-1. High Priority Invasive Plant Species found in the Analysis Area (continued)

Scientific Name Common Name

Invasiveness Rank

(0-100)1/ Number of Populations and Location2/

Senecio jacobaea tansy ragwort 63 2 populations, far western analysis area near 

beach (not on NFS lands) 4/

Leucanthemum 

vulgare

oxeye daisy 61 About 50 populations, common along existing 

roadways in the analysis area

Phalaris 

arundicacea

reed canarygrass 83 About 165 populations, common along 

existing roadways in the analysis area

Polygonum 

cuspidatum

Japanese knotweed 87 4 populations, far western analysis area near 

beach4/

Notes:

1/ Numerical rankings are assigned according to the ANHP’s Weed Ranking Project on a scale of 0-100, with 100 having the 

highest invasiveness risk.

2/ Maps of high priority invasive plant populations observed in the analysis area are available in the project record.

3/ Unknown non-native species of Hieracium that was not identified to species.

4/ These populations were observed in a portion of analysis area shared by all three action alternatives.

Habitat Vulnerability

Multiple factors can affect a habitat’s vulnerability to invasion by non-native plants. Factors that can 

increase vulnerability to invasion include: 1) increased sunlight, 2) exposed soils, and 3) adjacency to 

existing infestation such as roadsides and/or communities.

Areas with low vulnerability may include a variety of undisturbed habitats in which the ground surface is 

densely vegetated. Areas with higher vulnerability may include habitats that are subjected to soil 

disturbance combined with high light levels such as recently logged areas with soil disturbance, landslide 

areas, and riparian areas with regular soil disturbance such as alluvial fans and floodplains. Tidally 

influenced wetlands and wetlands with water flow-through have higher risk of soil disturbance and have 

higher habitat vulnerability. Wetlands in hydrologically isolated landscape positions without water flowthrough have a lower risk of habitat vulnerability due to limited invasive plant introduction via water flow 

and low rates of soil disturbance (Zedler and Kercher 2004). The presence of existing invasive plant 

infestations adjacent to vulnerable habitats further increases habitat vulnerability. 

The majority of the analysis area is forested by either young- or old-growth forests. Forested areas with a 

closed canopy have low habitat vulnerability. Non-forested areas, primarily wetland areas, are less common, 

covering between 9 percent and 16 percent of the analysis area (depending on alternative). In the analysis 

area, dense and rapid vegetation growth results in few areas with exposed soils. Soil disturbance, both natural

and human caused, usually revegetates quickly. Invasive plant distribution in the analysis area is primarily 

located along roadways. Areas with disturbed soils (natural or human caused) that have adjacent invasive 

plant infestations have the highest vulnerability to invasive plant infestations. Table INV-2 identifies common 

vegetation types in the analysis area and their relative vulnerability to light and exposed soil. 
3 Environment and Effects

3-90 ▪ Chapter 3 – Invasive Plants Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Table INV-2. Existing Vegetation Types and Corresponding Vulnerability in the Analysis Area

Vegetation Type

Habitat Vulnerability

due to Light

Habitat Vulnerability

due to Exposed Soil

Undisturbed Forest Low Low

Young-Growth Sapling to Pole size classes High Low

Stem exclusion stage Low Low

Stem reinitiation stage Low Low

Wetlands1/ Isolated marshes and muskegs High Low

Estuaries, riparian wetlands High High

Riparian Areas (floodplains, alluvial fans) Moderate High

Alpine High Low

Note:

1/ Wetlands separated based on hydrologic isolation (absence of water flow-though). 

Non-Project-related Vectors

There are multiple existing vectors that can contribute to the spread of invasive plant species within the 

analysis area that are independent of project implementation. These include existing roads, human 

vehicle and foot traffic, wildlife use, and wind and drainage patterns. The analysis area includes parts 

four separate NFS road systems (see Figure TRAN-1 in the Transportation section) and various hiking 

trails. Use of these networks by people and animals provides a source of invasive plant dispersal. 

Animals may spread invasive plant species through ingesting their seeds or transporting seeds on their 

fur. People may spread invasive plants along roads and trails by transporting seeds on their shoes, 

clothing, and vehicles. Road maintenance including vegetation mowing may also disperse invasive plants 

along the road system. Many of the existing invasive plants present along the road network may also 

spread through wind and water dispersal. All of these vectors contribute to invasive plant dispersal along 

the road system and it is difficult to determine which vector has the greatest impact. 

The Tonka LTF provides the main access to the existing Tonka road system. The Tonka road system presently 

receives low to moderate use, although use could increase with the proposed Tonka Timber Sale. The Portage 

road system is also isolated and receives relatively low use compared to the road systems accessed directly 

from Kake and Petersburg. Invasive plant vectors are more common near the communities of Kake and 

Petersburg and on the Kake and Mitkof NFS road systems that are accessed directly from these communities. 

The combination of these vectors results in a moderate risk of spread of invasive plants along these roadways 

and a low risk of spread outside of roadways due to non-project related weed vectors. 

Environmental Effects 

Implementation of all of the action alternatives would result in some risk to the spread of invasive plants 

in the analysis area, and the current moderate risk of spread would continue under the no action 

alternative due to existing invasive plants and traffic along the existing road system. 

Effects Common to All Action Alternatives 

Direct and Indirect Effects

Effects of Roads

The proposed transmission line’s design is a short span, road-side design that takes advantage of the 

existing NFS roads that would be followed by the action alternatives. Existing NFS roads would be used 

to access portions of all three action alternatives. Use of these existing access roads to construct the 

project would increase the risk of invasive species spread and/or establishment. Vehicles and other 

construction equipment could transport invasive plants along the existing road network. Invasive plant 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Invasive Plants ▪ 3-91

species found along these existing road networks could also be spread to the areas that would be disturbed 

during project construction, thereby potentially creating new infestations in previously undisturbed areas. 

Vectors associated with the use of existing roads would result in a high risk of invasive plant spread. 

Habitat Alteration Expected as a Result of the Project

All of the action alternatives would result in an increase in the risk of invasive species spread or 

establishment as a result of habitat alteration. Habitat alterations that would increase risk include 

temporary clearing and ground disturbance for structure installation, construction of temporary shovel 

trails and temporary access spurs, installation of temporary matting panels, construction of helicopter 

pads, and right-of-way clearing. These activities would result in increased sunlight due to removal of 

overstory vegetation and varying levels of ground disturbance resulting in soil exposure.

Although existing roads would be used where feasible, all of the proposed action alternatives cross areas 

where there are no existing roads (see Table 2-1 in Chapter 2). To access these areas, the proposed 

project would use a combination of temporary shovel trails and temporary matting panels, with helicopter 

support. All proposed shovel trails would be temporary and for short-term use during project 

construction only. Shovel trails would be up to 16-feet-wide and would use native materials where 

available. Temporary mats would be laid down to move the shovel rig along, where needed. Temporary 

matting panels would also be installed in some locations where they would provide a 14-foot-wide trail. 

In addition, temporary access spurs would be constructed where a proposed project structure is located 

more than 20 feet from an existing road. These activities would result in both vegetation removal and 

ground disturbance. 

Construction of temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs and the use of temporary matting 

panels would result in a short-term opportunity for invasive plant spread, as movement of construction 

vehicles and personnel in these areas would allow for dispersal of invasive plants along these corridors. 

However, these alterations and the associated risk would be temporary. Temporary shovel trails and 

access spurs would be decommissioned and revegetated following construction, and temporary matting 

panels would be removed. The risk associated with these activities is low to moderate.

Clearing of the right-of-way would involve removal of young- and old-growth trees. Risk associated with 

this type of clearing would result from the removal of the tree canopy and high light levels. Some ground 

disturbance is expected, although it is likely to be minimal and would vary slightly depending on the 

logging system. Although vegetation would be maintained in the right-of-way, the native understory 

vegetation would not be continuously disturbed and is anticipated to regenerate quickly and densely, 

thereby helping prevent the establishment of invasive plants. The risk associated with right-of-way 

clearing is low. 

Estimated disturbance is presented by action alternative and disturbance type in Table INV-3. Risk by 

alternative is described in the sections below.
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3-92 ▪ Chapter 3 – Invasive Plants Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Table INV-3. Summary of Project Disturbance by Alternative

Type of Disturbance (acres)1/

Alternative

2 (Proposed Action) 3 4

Structure Installation2/ 145.8 146.0 134.2

Shovel Trails3/ 28.3 28.3 8.0

Temporary Matting Panels4/ 2.5 2.5 9.0

Temporary Access Spurs5/ 10.2 10.2 7.9

Helicopter Pads6/ 0.4 0.4 0.3

Right-of-Way Clearing7/ 703.8 685.7 580.0

Total7/ 891.0 873.1 739.4

Notes:

1/ Disturbance estimates have been adjusted to avoid counting disturbance to the same area twice.

2/ These disturbance estimates assume that an area with a radius of approximately 50 feet from the center of each proposed single 

wood pole structure would be temporarily disturbed during construction.

3/ Temporary shovel trails are one approach that would be used to set structures in areas where the proposed alternative does not 

follow existing roads. Shovel trails would be used in wetland areas in locations where native materials (logs and slash) removed 

during right-of-way clearing are available for use as an underlayment to allow for the passage of wide tracked equipment. For the 

purposes of analysis, shovel trails are assumed to be up to 16 feet wide, and would follow the centerline of the proposed 

transmission line. All shovel trails would be decommissioned following use.

4/ Temporary matting panels would be installed in wetland areas where sufficient native materials are not available. Temporary

matting panels would be 14 feet wide and are assumed to follow the centerline of the proposed transmission line.

5/ The proposed transmission line would be located adjacent to the existing NFS roads to the extent possible, but would not be

immediately adjacent in all areas due to the ruggedness of the terrain and other environmental constraints. In locations where poles 

would be located off the road by more than 20 feet, an access work pad (temporary access spur) would be created by extending the 

road fill to the site and/or temporary matting. Temporary access roads are also assumed to be up 16 feet wide.

6/ Helicopters would be used to support construction along portions of all three action alternatives and would require the 

installation of temporary helicopter pads along the proposed right-of-way. Upon completion, these pads would, over time be 

replaced with permanent helipads that would be up to 16 feet wide by 16 feet wide.

7/ The average right-of-way clearing width in areas classified by the Forest Service as productive forest is assumed for the 

purposes of analysis to be 300 feet wide. The average right-of-way clearing width along existing roads and in areas classified by 

the Forest Service as unproductive forest is assumed to be 100 feet. 

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 is the no action alternative and is analyzed to provide a baseline for evaluation of the 

impacts associated with the action alternatives. The proposed project would not be built under this 

alternative; therefore, there would be no increased risk of invasive plant spread as a result of the proposed 

project. However, as described above, even this alternative would have a moderate risk of spread due to 

existing invasive plants and traffic along the existing road system. 

Cumulative Effects

The proposed project would not be approved or built under this alternative and would, therefore, not 

contribute cumulatively to the effects of other past, present, or reasonably foreseeable projects in the 

analysis area. 

Alternative 2 – Proposed Action 

Direct and Indirect Effects

This alternative would involve approximately 891 acres of ground disturbance for structure installation, 

temporary shovel trails, temporary matting panels, temporary access spurs, helicopter pads, and right-ofway clearing (Table INV-3). Effects of these actions are discussed under the preceding Effects Common 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Invasive Plants ▪ 3-93

to All Action Alternatives section. This alternative would result in the largest acreage of ground 

disturbance of the action alternatives (see Table INV-3) and would, therefore, have the highest direct risk 

for the spread or establishment of invasive plant species compared to the other action alternatives. 

Cumulative Effects

Past, present, and future projects that result in soil disturbance and/or removal of vegetation would

cumulatively affect the extent of invasive plant species within the analysis area. Reasonably foreseeable 

projects within the analysis area for this alternative include the Scott Peak timber sale, which is currently 

in litigation. A total of 2.7 acres of Scott Peak harvest units coincide with the proposed disturbance 

footprint for Alternative 2. These acres would either be harvested as part of the timber sale or cleared 

during construction if Alternative 2 was the selected alternative for the KPI Project.

The KPI Project would incrementally add to these past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future 

projects. The extent of these cumulative effects would be minimized by the standards and guidelines 

established in the Forest Plan to manage invasive plants within this area.

Alternative 3 – Northern Route with Submarine Cable

Direct and Indirect Effects

This alternative would involve approximately 873.1 acres of ground disturbance for structure installation, 

temporary shovel trails, temporary matting panels, temporary access spurs, helicopter pads, and right-ofway clearing (Table INV-3). Effects of these actions are discussed under the preceding Effects Common 

to All Action Alternatives section. This alternative has the second highest acreage of ground disturbance

of the action alternatives (Table INV-3) and would, therefore, have the second highest direct risk for the 

spread or establishment of invasive plant species compared to the other action alternatives. 

Cumulative Effects

Past, present, and future projects that result in soil disturbance and/or removal of vegetation would 

cumulatively affect the extent of invasive plant species within the analysis area. Reasonably foreseeable 

projects within the analysis area for this alternative include the Scott Peak timber sale, which is currently 

in litigation. A total of 2.7 acres of Scott Peak harvest units coincide with the proposed disturbance 

footprint for Alternative 3. These acres would either be harvested as part of the timber sale or cleared 

during construction if Alternative 3 was the selected alternative for the KPI Project.

The KPI Project would incrementally add to these past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future 

projects. The extent of these cumulative effects would be minimized by the standards and guidelines 

established in the Forest Plan to manage invasive plants within this area.

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route

Direct and Indirect Effects

This alternative would involve approximately 739.4 acres of ground disturbance for structure installation, 

temporary shovel trails, temporary matting panels, temporary access spurs, helicopter pads, and right-ofway clearing (Table INV-3). Effects of these actions are discussed in detail under the preceding Effects 

Common to All Action Alternatives section. This alternative has the lowest acreage of ground disturbance

of all the action alternatives (Table INV-3) and would, therefore, have the lowest direct risk for the spread 

or establishment of invasive plant species compared to the other action alternatives. 
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3-94 ▪ Chapter 3 – Invasive Plants Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Cumulative Effects

Past, present, and future projects that result in soil disturbance and/or removal of vegetation would 

cumulatively affect the extent of invasive plant species within the analysis area. Reasonably foreseeable 

projects within the analysis area for this alternative include the Central Kupreanof and Tonka timber sale 

projects. A total of 29.7 acres of identified harvest units for these projects coincide with the disturbance 

footprint for Alternative 4: 16.9 acres and 12.8 acres for Central Kupreanof and Tonka, respectively. 

Although NEPA-cleared, unless market conditions change, the Central Kupreanof units are not expected 

to be offered for sale over the next 5 years. In contrast, harvest of the Tonka units is expected to be 

completed in 2014.

The KPI Project would incrementally add to these past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future 

projects. As the exact extent of reasonably foreseeable future projects that could overlap with the KPI 

Project is unknown at this time, the exact extent and magnitude of these cumulative effects is also 

unknown. However, the extent of these cumulative effects would be minimized by the standards and 

guidelines established in the Forest Plan to manage invasive plants within this area.

Mitigation 

The invasive plant management goals and strategies for this project would follow the guidance contained 

in the 2008 Forest Plan and FSM 2900 (see Chapter 2). The primary goal for this project relative to 

invasive plants is prevention measures designed to minimize the spread and continued establishment of 

invasive plants in the analysis area. 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wetlands ▪ 3-95

Wetlands

Introduction 

This section provides an overview of existing wetland resources in the analysis area and summarizes the 

potential direct, indirect, and cumulative effects on these resources from implementation of the proposed 

project. Wetlands are defined by the Tongass Forest Plan, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the EPA 

as “those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater with a frequency and 

duration sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation 

typically adapted to life in saturated soil conditions” (40 CFR 230.41 [a][1]). Wetlands are valued for 

their physical, chemical and biological functions. Wetlands moderate flooding, reduce runoff and 

sedimentation, provide wildlife and plant habitat, and may help sustain stream flow during dry periods. 

Physical functions may include flood conveyance, surface and ground water regulation, sediment 

retention, and temperature moderation. Chemical functions may include nutrient storage, pH moderation, 

and carbon storage. Biological functions include habitat for terrestrial, aquatic, and marine plants and 

animals. In addition, forested wetlands are an important component of the forest land base.

Management activities on NFS lands are required to comply with the relevant standards and guidelines in 

the Tongass Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service 2008a). The Forest Service is also required by Executive 

Order 11990 and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act to preserve and enhance the natural and beneficial 

values of wetlands wherever practicable when carrying out management activities on NFS lands. 

Due to the extensive nature of wetlands in the KPI analysis area, complete avoidance of all wetlands 

during project implementation and construction is not feasible. Where a wetland cannot be avoided, the 

impacts are to be minimized. R10 BMP 12.5 (from the FSH 2509.22) provides guidance for wetland 

information, evaluation, and protection. 

Analysis Area 

The analysis area for direct, indirect, and cumulative effects to wetlands is the estimated disturbance 

footprint for the action alternatives. This area was selected as the analysis area because all project-related 

disturbances are expected to occur within this area. Although this approach results in three separate 

analysis areas, one for each action alternative, these three areas are referred to collectively as the analysis 

area in the following section. The three action alternatives follow one of two primary corridors: the 

Northern Route (Alternatives 2 and 3) and the Center-South Route (Alternative 4). These terms—the 

Northern route and Center-South route corridors—are also used in this section when discussing the 

analysis areas applicable to the different alternatives.

Methodology 

Wetland type and extent in the analysis area was estimated based on the Tongass Wetland Mapping layer. 

The Tongass National Forest roads mapping layer was used to estimate acres of wetland fill from existing 

roads. This analysis included all existing open roads, ML 1 roads (roads in storage), decommissioned, 

and temporary roads. Decommissioning measures have generally included allowing the roads to 

revegetate, culvert removal, and/or the creation of obstructions that prevent vehicular use. However, with 

the exception of road bed removal associated with the removal of drainage structures, the majority of the 

road prisms in wetlands, including those from former temporary roads, remain as permanent wetland 

impacts. 

Wetland impacts are estimated for the proposed alternatives based on acres disturbed by proposed project 

components, including structure installation, temporary shovel trails and access spurs, helicopter pads, 

and right-of-way clearing. The area of wetland impact for existing roads was estimated based on an 

average road width of 40 feet. This number is used to represent existing roads based on the results of a 
3 Environment and Effects

3-96 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wetlands Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

monitoring study completed by the Forest Service that documented wetland impacts from road 

construction (Landwehr 2008). The average road surface measured in this study was 15.1 feet, the width 

of the road fill ranged from 23 to 29 feet, and the width of soil disturbance ranged from 39 to 47 feet. 

No new roads are proposed under any of the action alternatives, but the three proposed action alternatives 

would all involve the use of temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs. Shovel trails would be up 

to 16 feet wide and use native materials where available. Temporary access spurs would be necessary in 

locations where the proposed transmission line structures are located more than 20 feet from an existing 

road. These spurs would be created by extending the road fill to the structure location and are also assumed 

to be 16 feet wide for the purposes of analysis. Where the distance from the road makes this impractical, 

temporary matting would be used to gain access to the structure location during construction. Shovel trails 

and temporary access spurs are discussed in more detail in Chapter 2 of this EIS.

Additional information regarding the regulatory framework, methodology, and analysis of wetlands in the 

analysis area can be found in the Wetland Resource Report prepared for this project (Opolka 2012b).

Affected Environment 

Different wetland types are found interspersed throughout the analysis area, although some wetland types 

tend to be more common in some portions of the analysis area. The various wetland types and their 

distribution within the analysis area are described in the following sections. 

Wetland Types 

Forested Wetlands

Forested wetlands are wetlands dominated by vegetation greater than 20 feet in height. In the analysis 

area, species composition of the overstory is varied and may contain the following species: western 

hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla), western redcedar (Thuja plicata), shore pine (Pinus contorta), and Alaska 

yellow-cedar (Chamaecyparis nootkatensis). The understory is often dominated by skunk cabbage 

(Lysichitum americanum) and deer cabbage (Nephrophyllidium crista-galli). Forested wetlands occur on 

poorly or very poorly drained hydric mineral and organic soils. Forested wetlands are most common on 

broad glacial valley bottoms, gently sloping hill slopes or benches, but are also commonly found on steep 

terrain in areas overlaying volcanic geology. These wetlands provide important functions including 

wildlife habitat, water quality improvement, peak flow reduction and erosion control, organic matter 

production and export, and nutrient and carbon cycling (Cooke 2005). Forested wetlands may support the 

transfer of water to downslope resources, function as recharge areas for groundwater and streams, and 

provide depositional areas for sediment and nutrients. 

Approximately 216 acres or 24 percent of the analysis area for Alternative 2 is forested wetland. Forested 

wetland accounts for approximately 201 acres or 23 percent of the analysis area for Alternative 3, and 

approximately 161 acres or 22 percent of the analysis area for Alternative 4 (Table WET-1).

Forested Wetland/Emergent Sedge Complex

The forested wetland/emergent short sedge complex is less than 50 percent forested. Forested 

wetland/emergent short sedge complexes share characteristics of both forested wetland and emergent 

short sedge types. These complexes are a mosaic of forested wetland emergent short sedge types that 

cannot be mapped separately at the scale used for the Tongass National Forest wetland map. Sphagnum 

mosses (Sphagnum spp.), sedges (Carex spp.), and skunk cabbage dominate these wetlands with low 

volume class hemlock, cedar, and pine. Soils are very poorly drained hydric organic soils, with
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wetlands ▪ 3-97

Table WET-1. Existing Roads and Past Harvest on Wetlands in the Analysis Area

Alternative/ Wetland Type

Total Acres 

in Analysis 

Area

Percent 

of 

Analysis 

Area1/

Roads Past Harvest Total

Miles of 

Road

Acres 

Affected

Percent 

of 

Analysis 

Area

Acres 

Affected

Percent 

of 

Analysis 

Area

Acres 

Affected

Percent 

of 

Analysis 

Area

Alternative 2

Forested Wetland 216 24 3 16 2 35 4 51 6

Emergent Short-sedge Wetlands 5 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0

Moss muskeg 102 11 1 7 1 0 0 7 1

FW/FES Complex 254 29 3 15 2 2 0 17 2

Total Wetland Acres2/ 577 65 7 39 5 37 4 76 9

Alternative 3

Forested Wetland 201 23 2 10 1 35 4 45 5

Emergent Short-sedge Wetlands 5 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0

Moss muskeg 100 11 1 7 1 0 0 7 1

FW/FES Complex 254 29 3 15 2 2 0 17 2

Total Wetland Acres2/ 560 64 6 33 4 37 4 70 8

Alternative 4

Forested Wetland 161 22 4 17 2 39 5 56 8

Emergent Short-sedge Wetlands 4 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0

Moss muskeg 67 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

FW/FES Complex 132 18 3 12 2 4 1 16 2

Total Wetland Acres2/ 364 49 7 30 4 50 6 73 10

Notes:

FW/FES Complex -- Forested Wetland/Emergent Sedge Complex

1/ Existing wetlands are shown as a percent of the total analysis area for each alternative. These areas are 891 acres, 873 acres, and 740 acres for Alternatives 2, 3 and 4, 

respectively.

2/ Totals may not sum due to rounding.
3 Environment and Effects

3-98 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wetlands Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

occasional hydric mineral soils in small pockets of forested wetland. These complexes are commonly 

found in riparian areas and occur in gently sloping hill slopes and benches, glacial valley bottoms, lower 

foot slopes, and on broad ridge tops. Both complexes contribute to the transfer of water downslope, 

groundwater and stream recharge, and carbon and nutrient cycling. These complexes provide terrestrial 

and aquatic habitat for wildlife species, such as black bear, deer, and mink. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 both include approximately 254 acres of forested wetland/emergent sedge 

complexes, which accounts for 29 percent of their respective analysis areas. Alternative 4 includes 

approximately 132 acres of forested wetland/emergent sedge complexes, which accounts for 49 percent of 

the analysis area (Table WET-1).

Emergent Short-sedge Wetlands

Emergent short-sedge wetlands contain organic soils that are very poorly drained, moderately deep, and 

dominated by short sedges and mosses, although there are often patchy areas of shrubs and shore pine. 

These wetlands may include poor fens and rich bogs, and there is typically some water flow through. 

Emergent short-sedge wetlands are often found on lower foot slopes, in valleys, and on broad ridge tops. 

These wetlands provide habitat for unique plants and animals, and contribute water to downslope 

resources, provide carbon and nutrient cycling benefits for watershed function, and provide water storage 

for flood and erosion control (EPA 2011). 

Alternatives 2 and 3 include approximately 5 acres of emergent short-sedge wetlands (1 percent of their 

respective analysis areas). Alternative 4 includes approximately 4 acres of emergent short-sedge 

wetlands, about 1 percent of the analysis area (Table WET-1).

Moss Muskegs

Moss muskegs are characterized by nutrient limiting acid peat bogs and dominated by sphagnum moss 

and peat deposits. Muskeg wetlands support a distinctive flora which are adapted to life in these acidic, 

wet, low-nutrient environments (EPA 2011). Common plants include ericaceous shrubs such as cranberry 

(Vaccinium oxycoccos) and blueberry (Vaccinium spp.), cottongrass (Eriophyllum spp.), Labrador tea 

(Ledum grandifolium), and sundews (Drosera spp.). Occasional stunted trees (particularly shore pine)

may also be present. Soils are typically organic peat deposits and accumulate over unconsolidated glacial 

till or impermeable glacial silts, typically on gentle or nearly level slopes. Moss muskegs often have no 

significant inflow or outflow of water other than precipitation, thus ponded areas (a result of a high water 

table) occur within the wetland. These wetlands function as areas of surplus water and peat accumulation 

creating a stable microclimate and habitat for waterfowl and wildlife, including cranes, black bear, 

amphibians, mink, and deer. 

Approximately 102 acres or 11 percent of the analysis area for Alternative 2 is moss muskeg. Moss 

muskeg accounts for approximately 100 acres or 11 percent of the analysis area for Alternative 3, and 

approximately 67 acres or 9 percent of the analysis area for Alternative 4 (Table WET-1).

Existing Wetland Disturbances

Wetlands comprise approximately 65 percent of the analysis area for Alternative 2, 64 percent of the 

Alternative 3 analysis area, and 49 percent of the Alternative 4 analysis area (Table WET-1). As a result, 

total avoidance of wetlands is not possible under any of the proposed action alternatives. Many of the 

wetlands in the analysis area are undisturbed and intact; however, there are existing wetland impacts that 

have occurred as a result of historic logging and road construction (Table WET-1). 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wetlands ▪ 3-99

Road Construction

Roads across sloping wetlands may affect hydrologic connectivity across the wetland due to road ditches 

or road fills. Roads crossing slope wetlands have a higher chance of disrupting the down-gradient flow of 

water, as water is intercepted by roadside ditches and potentially blocked by the road bed. However, the 

high precipitation rates and soil moisture in Southeast Alaska appears to minimize the impacts of water 

that is intercepted by roadside ditches. 

Implementation of adequate road drainage minimizes the impacts to hydrologic connectivity of wetlands. 

Based on research regarding the effect of road construction on adjacent wetlands in Southeast Alaska 

(Glaser 1999; Kahklen and Moll 1999; McGee 2000), effects to wetland hydrology and vegetation 

adjacent to existing roads are expected to be limited to within a few feet of the road, most likely due to the 

high water-holding capacity of the soil and abundant local precipitation. Table WET-1 displays the 

existing acreages and miles of wetlands impacted by existing roads. R10 Wetland BMP Monitoring 

would continue to occur annually on a representative basis across the forest as part of Forest Plan 

monitoring and may occur in the KPI analysis area (see the Mitigation section, below). 

An estimated total of 39 acres of wetland have been replaced (i.e., filled) by roads in the analysis area for 

Alternative 2 and 33 acres for Alternative 3 (Table WET-1). Road building in wetlands has occurred 

primarily on forested wetland/emergent sedge complex wetlands (15 acres for both alternatives), forested 

wetland (16 acres for Alternative 2 and 10 acres for Alternative 3), and moss muskeg wetland (7 acres for 

both alternatives). About 1 acre of fill for roads has occurred on emergent short-sedge wetland in the 

analysis areas for Alternatives 2 and 3. The total acres affected by past road building represents about 5 

percent and 4 percent of wetlands in the analysis areas for Alternatives 2 and 3, respectively (Table WET-1).

An estimated total of 30 acres of wetland have been replaced by roads in the analysis area for Alternative 4 

(Table WET-1). Road building in wetlands has occurred primarily on forested wetland (about 17 acres) and 

forested wetland/emergent sedge complex wetlands (12 acres). About 1 acre and less than one acre of road 

fill have occurred on emergent short-sedge wetlands and moss muskeg, respectively. Total acres affected by 

past road building represents about 4 percent of wetlands in the analysis area for Alternative 4.

Past Harvest

Past timber harvest has occurred in the analysis areas for all three action alternatives (Table WET-1). 

Timber harvest in wetlands has temporary effects on wetland hydrology. Rainfall interception studies 

indicate that the amount of rainfall hitting the soil surface increases following clear cutting (Patric 1966; 

Beaudry and Sagar 1995; Banner et. al. 2005). Soils within harvested sites tend to gain higher moisture 

levels resulting in slower growth in the seedling and sapling stage. Soil moisture conditions remain 

elevated until evapotranspiration surfaces in the canopy of a young stand become equivalent to preharvest conditions. Depending on the soil moisture status of the wetland, this effect can range from 

negligible to lasting more than 20 years. In partially harvested stands, retention of a portion of the canopy 

cover helps minimize the effect of timber harvest on soil moisture. 

Past harvest in the analysis areas for Alternatives 2 and 3 has occurred on 35 acres of forested wetland, 

approximately 4 percent of this wetland type in each area (Table WET-1). In addition, an estimated 

2 acres of forested wetland/emergent sedge complex have been affected by past harvest. Total past 

harvest has affected about 4 percent of the total wetland acreage in the analysis areas for Alternatives 2 

and 3 (Table WET-1).

Past harvest in the analysis area for Alternative 4 has occurred on 39 acres of forested wetland, 

approximately 5 percent of this wetland type in the area (Table WET-1). Past harvest has also occurred 

on 4 acres of forested wetland/emergent sedge complex, approximately 1 percent of this wetland type. 

Total past harvest has affected about 6 percent of the total wetland acreage in the analysis area for 

Alternative 4 (Table WET-1). 
3 Environment and Effects

3-100 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wetlands Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Wetland Avoidance

Past road construction activities (mostly related to timber harvests) have avoided wetlands where 

practicable; however, wetland impacts have occurred as a result of the extensive, interspersed wetland 

coverage in the analysis area and the location of harvestable timber. Wetland impacts from road 

construction have occurred to access timber, which may be located on forested wetland or on upland areas 

separated by wetland. Wetland impacts have also occurred when steep slopes are avoided for 

construction; often construction of a road in a wetland is the environmentally preferred alternative to 

construction on a steep slope. Within the context of past project objectives, including economics and 

minimizing environmental harm, past road construction is believed to have avoided wetlands to the extent 

practicable in the analysis area. 

Environmental Effects 

Effects Common to All Alternatives 

Structure installation, the use of temporary shovel trails, temporary matting panels, temporary access 

spurs, and helicopter pads would occur under all of the action alternatives, as would right-of-way

clearing. Potential impacts to wetlands are assessed for each action alternative based on the following 

measures: 

• Acres of wetland affected by structure installation, 

• Acres wetland affected by shovel trail construction and use, 

• Acres of wetland affected by temporary access spurs, 

• Acres of wetland affected by helicopter pads,

• Acres of wetland affected by right-of-way clearing, and 

• Cumulative acres of wetland filled for road construction and clearing as a result of past, present, 

and reasonably foreseeable projects. 

Direct impacts include the acres of wetland affected through these activities, either through permanent 

fill, temporary fill, or vegetation clearing. Right-of-way clearing could, but may not necessarily, result in 

ground disturbance and is, therefore, presented separately from the other potential ground-disturbing 

activities (i.e., structure installation, temporary shovel trails, temporary matting panels, temporary access 

spurs, and helicopter pads). Indirect impacts include potential changes to hydrology that could result 

from these activities. These effects are briefly described in the following paragraphs and summarized by 

alternative in Tables WET-2 and WET-3. 

Structure Installation

Single wood-pole structures are proposed for most of the alternative routes. Disturbance estimates for 

these structures assume that an area with a radius of approximately 50 feet from the center of each pole 

would be temporarily disturbed during construction. This disturbance area could involve wetland fill as 

well as vegetation removal and soil disturbance. Efforts to avoid and minimize impacts to wetlands 

during construction and future operation and maintenance activities would be implemented to minimize 

the amount of disturbance and permanent wetland fill (see the Mitigation section, below). 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wetlands ▪ 3-101

Table WET-2. Estimated Impacts by Alternative, Type of Disturbance, and Wetland Type 

Alternative/ Wetland 

Type1/

Type of Disturbance (acres)2/

Total 

Affected 

Acres2/

Percent of 

Total 

Analysis 

Area4/

Structure 

InstallationShovel 

Trails

Temporary 

Access 

Spurs

Temporary 

Matting 

Panels

Helicopter 

Pads 3/

Alternative 2

Forested Wetlands 21 6 1 0 0 29 3

Emergent Short-sedge 

Wetlands 1 0 0 0 0 1 0

Moss muskeg 18 4 0 2 0 24 3

FW/FES Complex 46 10 3 1 0 61 7

Total 86 21 4 3 0 114 13

Alternative 3

Forested Wetlands 21 6 1 0 0 29 3

Emergent Short-sedge 

Wetlands 1 0 0 0 0 1 0

Moss muskeg 18 4 0 2 0 24 3

FW/FES Complex 46 10 3 1 0 61 7

Total 86 21 4 3 0 114 13

Alternative 4

Forested Wetlands 19 1 2 1 0 23 3

Emergent Short-sedge 

Wetlands 1 0 0 0 0 1 0

Moss muskeg 11 1 0 4 0 17 2

FW/FES Complex 20 3 1 3 0 27 4

Total 51 4 3 9 0 67 9

Notes:

FW/FES Complex – Forested Wetland/Emergent Sedge Complex

1/ Totals may not sum due to rounding.

2/ Disturbance estimates by type have been adjusted to avoid counting disturbance to the same area twice.

3/ Disturbance from helipad placement is estimated to be less than 1 acre under any alternative. For Alts 2/3, 62 of the estimated 

83 indicative helipads are at least partially in wetlands (0.62 acres); an estimated 32 of 47 indicative helipads are at least partially 

in wetlands (0.32 acres) under Alternative 4.

4/ Percent of Total Analysis Area represents the combined total disturbance as a share of the analysis area. The analysis areas are 

891 acres, 873 acres, and 740 acres for Alternatives 2, 3 and 4, respectively

Table WET-3. Estimated Right-of-Way Clearing and Total Disturbance by Alternative and 

Wetland Type 

Alternative/ Wetland Type1/

Right-of-Way Clearing2/ Total Clearing

Affected 

Acres

Percent of 

Total Analysis 

Area3/

Total Affected 

Acres4/

Percent of 

Total Analysis 

Area3/

Alternative 2

Forested Wetlands 137 15 166 19

Emergent Short-sedge Wetlands 3 0 4 0

Moss muskeg 71 8 95 11

FW/FES Complex 177 20 238 27

Total1/ 388 44 502 56

Alternative 3

Forested Wetlands 128 15 157 18

Emergent Short-sedge Wetlands 3 0 4 0
3 Environment and Effects

3-102 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wetlands Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Table WET-3. Estimated Right-of-Way Clearing and Total Disturbance by Alternative and 

Wetland Type (continued)

Alternative/ Wetland Type1/

Right-of-Way Clearing2/ Total Clearing

Affected 

Acres

Percent of 

Total Analysis 

Area3/

Total Affected 

Acres4/

Percent of 

Total Analysis 

Area3/

Moss muskeg 69 8 93 11

FW/FES Complex 177 20 238 27

Total1/ 377 43 491 56

Alternative 4

Forested Wetlands 83 11 106 14

Emergent Short-sedge Wetlands 3 0 4 1

Moss muskeg 50 7 67 9

FW/FES Complex 89 12 116 16

Total1/ 226 31 293 40

Notes:

FW/FES Complex – Forested Wetland/Emergent Sedge Complex

1/ Totals may not sum due to rounding.

2/ Right-of-way clearing could, but may not necessarily, result in ground disturbance and is, therefore, presented separately from 

the other potential ground-disturbing activities (see Table WET-2). Disturbance estimates by type have been adjusted to avoid 

counting disturbance to the same area twice.

3/ Percent of Total Analysis Area represents estimated right-of-way clearing as a share of the analysis area. The total analysis 

areas are 891 acres, 873 acres, and 740 acres for Alternatives 2, 3 and 4, respectively.

4/ Total affected acres consists of right-of-way clearing plus disturbance associated with structure installation, shovel trails, 

temporary access spurs, temporary matting panels, and helicopter pads.

Shovel Trails, Temporary Matting Panels, and Temporary Access Spurs

The effects of temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs on wetlands may vary based on the 

substrate (soil type) and the landscape position of the wetland. Shovel trails would be used in wetland 

areas in locations where native materials (logs and slash) removed during right-of-way clearing are 

available for use as an underlayment to allow for the passage of wide tracked equipment. Temporary 

matting panels would be installed in wetland areas where sufficient native materials are not available. 

Disturbed areas would be restored and revegetated after construction following applicable BMPs 

including R10 BMP 12.5, and summarized under the Mitigation Measures section in Chapter 2, 

specifically RMA 1 and RMA 2.

The indirect potential effects of temporary shovel trail and access spur use on adjacent wetlands would 

likely vary based on wetland type and the landscape position of the wetland. Although not directly 

comparable, research regarding the effect on adjacent wetlands from road construction in Southeast 

Alaska (Glaser 1999; Kahlklen and Moll 1999; McGee 2000) have indicated that effects to wetland 

hydrology and vegetation adjacent to these roads are expected to be limited to within a few feet of the 

road (see the Existing Wetland Disturbances section, above),

Helicopter Pads

Helicopters would be used for construction along portions of all three action alternatives (see Table 2-1 

and Figures 2-1 and 2-2). Use of helicopters would require the installation of temporary helicopter pads

along the proposed right-of-way, which would be replaced later with permanent pads. Although it is 

anticipated that helipads will be placed on upland soils where possible, there are sections of the unroaded 

areas where this is not likely possible. Disturbance from helipad placement is estimated to be 0.6 acre 

and 0.3 acre under Alternatives 2/3 and Alternative 4, respectively. For Alternatives 2 and 3, 62 of the 

estimated 83 indicative helipads are at least partially in wetlands, and 32 of 47 indicative helipads are at 

least partially in wetlands under Alternative 4. 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wetlands ▪ 3-103

Right-of-Way Clearing

Right-of-way clearing for the proposed action alternatives would primarily affect wetlands with a forested 

vegetation class. Right-of-way clearing could, but may not necessarily, result in ground disturbance and 

is, therefore, presented separately from the other potential ground-disturbing activities. The effects of 

right-of-way clearing would be similar to effects resulting from timber harvesting as described above (see 

the Past Harvest section, above), although future maintenance would prevent trees from growing to 

maturity in these areas. Where removed, shrubs and trees would be expected to quickly revegetate the 

right-of-way of the selected alternative, and soil moisture levels may partially return to normal. However, 

since long term right-of-way maintenance would prevent a mature forest in the right-of-way, soil moisture 

may remain elevated in some wetlands. 

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 is the no action alternative and is analyzed to provide a baseline for evaluation of the 

impacts associated with the action alternatives. Under this alternative, the Forest Service would not 

provide authorization for the proposed project and there would be no direct or indirect effects on wetland 

areas because there would be no transmission line construction or associated activities. Vegetation on 

forested wetlands harvested in the past would continue to grow toward maturity. Wetlands impacted by 

past road construction would receive minimal use. Vegetation would occupy ditch lines and, in the case 

of closed roads, the roadbed may be occupied by species such as red alder. The road prism would remain 

in an upland condition. Road ditches, where present, support a variety of upland and wetland vegetation 

depending on local conditions and seed sources. Hydrologic and vegetation effects would remain limited 

beyond the road prism (Glaser 1999).

Cumulative Effects

The no action alternative would not contribute to cumulative effects on wetland areas because there 

would be no transmission line construction or associated activities under this alternative. The effects of 

past road building and timber harvest on wetlands are described in the Affected Environment section and 

summarized in Table WET-1. Reasonably foreseeable projects in the analysis areas crossed by the 

proposed KPI alternatives are summarized at the beginning of Chapter 3 of this EIS.

On wetlands where timber has been harvested, vegetation will continue to grow toward hydrologic 

maturity, and overall soil moisture levels will return to pre-harvest conditions. Vegetation on the oldest 

harvest areas would be more than 30 years old and consists of generally vigorous young-growth stands, 

and soil moisture conditions should be returning to near pre-harvest conditions. Open, drivable roads in 

the analysis area would continue to receive use for recreation and subsistence, as well as future timber 

harvest activities. Vegetation will grow in ditch lines on all roads, and on closed roads vegetation will 

likely colonize the road surfaces. 

Alternative 2 – Proposed Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Structure installation and the use of temporary shovel trails, temporary matting panels, temporary access 

spurs, and helicopter pads would disturb an estimated total of 29 acres of forested wetland, 24 acres of 

moss muskeg, and 61 acres of forested wetland/emergent sedge complex, with a combined total 

disturbance of 114 acres or 13 percent of the analysis area (Table WET-2). These estimates are adjusted 

to avoid double counting areas that would be disturbed more than once and also exclude areas that have 

already been disturbed (Table WET-1).
3 Environment and Effects

3-104 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wetlands Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Areas of the proposed 100- or 300-foot-wide right-of-way not disturbed by the project components 

identified in Table WET-2 may also be cleared depending on the existing vegetation. Assuming that all 

of the remaining right-of-way would be cleared would result in disturbance to an estimated 137 acres of 

forested wetland, 71 acres of moss muskeg, and 177 acres of forested wetland/emergent sedge complex, 

with a combined total disturbance of 388 acres or 44 percent of the analysis area (Table WET-3). 

However, these estimates likely overstate the acres in moss muskeg and emergent short-sedge wetlands 

that would be affected because they assume that all acres of these vegetation types in the right-of-way 

would be cleared. These wetland types mainly consist of low-lying vegetation with scattered tall trees 

and much of these areas in the right-of-way would not need to be cleared. 

Overall, this alternative would affect more acres of wetlands than the other action alternatives, with a total 

of 502 acres of impacts to wetlands from structure installation, temporary shovel trails, temporary matting 

panels, temporary access spurs, and right-of way clearing. This alternative would also have the largest 

acreage of impact to forested wetlands (Table WET-3). 

Cumulative Effects

Estimates of existing wetland disturbance within the analysis area for this alternative are presented by 

disturbance type (past road construction and timber harvest) and wetland type in Table WET-1. This 

table indicates that past road construction and timber harvest has affected an estimated total of 

approximately 76 acres (9 percent) of wetlands in the analysis area for this alternative. This estimated 

total includes approximately 37 acres of cleared or previously harvested wetland with a forested 

vegetation class and approximately 39 acres of wetlands impacted by road construction.

Reasonably foreseeable projects within the analysis area for this alternative include the Scott Peak timber 

sale, which is currently in litigation. A total of 2.7 acres of Scott Peak harvest units coincide with the 

proposed disturbance footprint for Alternative 2. These acres would either be harvested as part of the 

timber sale or cleared during construction if Alternative 2 was the selected alternative for the KPI Project.

The incremental addition of estimated wetland disturbance under Alternative 2 to existing wetland 

disturbance in the analysis area would result in total cumulative impacts to approximately 577 acres of 

wetland, including approximately 216 acres of forested wetlands, 254 acres of forested wetland/emergent 

sedge complex, 102 acres of moss muskeg, and 5 acres of emergent short-sedge wetlands. 

Alternative 3 – Northern Route with Submarine Cable

Direct and Indirect Effects

Structure installation and the use of temporary shovel trails, temporary matting panels, temporary access 

spurs, and helicopter pads would disturb an estimated total of 29 acres of forested wetland, 24 acres of 

moss muskeg, and 61 acres of forested wetland/emergent sedge complex, with a combined total 

disturbance of 114 acres or 13 percent of the analysis area (Table WET-2). These estimates are adjusted 

to avoid double counting areas that would be disturbed more than once and also exclude areas that have 

already been disturbed (Table WET-1).

Areas of the proposed 100-foot or 300-foot-wide right-of-way not disturbed by the project components 

identified in Table WET-2 may also be cleared depending on the existing vegetation. Assuming that all 

of the remaining right-of-way would be cleared would result in disturbance to an estimated 128 acres of 

forested wetland, 69 acres of moss muskeg, and 177 acres of forested wetland/emergent sedge complex, 

with a combined total disturbance of 377 acres or 43 percent of the analysis area (Table WET-3). 

However, these estimates likely overstate the acres in moss muskeg and emergent short-sedge wetlands 

that would be affected because they assume that all acres of these vegetation types in the right-of-way 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wetlands ▪ 3-105

would be cleared. These wetland types mainly consist of low-lying vegetation with scattered tall trees 

and much of these areas in the right-of-way would not need to be cleared. 

Overall, this alternative would have the second largest impact to wetlands compared to the other action 

alternatives, with a total of 491 acres of impacts to wetlands from structure installation, temporary shovel 

trails, temporary matting panels, temporary access spurs, and right-of way clearing. This alternative 

would have the second largest acreage of impact to forested wetlands (Table WET-2). 

Cumulative Effects

Estimates of existing wetland disturbance within the analysis area for this alternative are presented by 

disturbance type (past road construction and timber harvest) and wetland type in Table WET-1. This 

table indicates that past road construction and timber harvest has affected an estimated total of 

approximately 70 acres (8 percent) of wetlands in the analysis area for this alternative. This estimated 

total includes approximately 37 acres of cleared or previously harvested wetland with a forested 

vegetation class and approximately 33 acres of wetlands impacted by road construction.

Reasonably foreseeable projects within the analysis area for this alternative include the Scott Peak timber 

sale, which is currently in litigation. A total of 2.7 acres of Scott Peak harvest units coincide with the 

proposed disturbance footprint for Alternative 3. These acres would either be harvested as part of the 

timber sale or cleared during construction if Alternative 3 was the selected alternative for the KPI Project. 

The incremental addition of estimated wetland disturbance under Alternative 3 to existing wetland 

disturbance in the analysis area would result in total cumulative impacts to approximately 560 acres of 

wetland, including approximately 201 acres of forested wetlands, 254 acres of forested wetland/emergent 

sedge complex, 100 acres of moss muskeg, and 5 acres of emergent short-sedge wetlands. 

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 4 is about 8 miles shorter than the other two action alternatives. This alternative also crosses 

fewer unroaded miles, 13.8 miles versus 23.6 miles under Alternatives 2 and 3 both, with an estimated 

6.5 miles of shovel trail versus 21.6 miles for the other two alternatives, and 1.4 miles less of estimated 

temporary access spur. This alternative would, however, require the use of more temporary matting 

panels, with an estimated total of 7.3 miles expected to be required to cross the unroaded area west of 

Duncan Canal compared to just 2.0 miles for Alternatives 2 and 3 (Table 2-1).

Structure installation and the use of temporary shovel trails, temporary matting panels, temporary access 

spurs, and helicopter pads would disturb an estimated total of 23 acres of forested wetland, 17 acres of 

moss muskeg, and 27 acres of forested wetland/emergent sedge complex, with a combined total 

disturbance of 67 acres or 9 percent of the analysis area (Table WET-2). These estimates are adjusted to 

avoid double counting areas that would be disturbed more than once and also exclude areas that have 

already been disturbed (Table WET-1).

Areas of the proposed 100- or 300-foot-wide right-of-way not disturbed by the project components 

identified in Table WET-2 may also be cleared depending on the existing vegetation. Assuming that all 

of the remaining right-of-way would be cleared would result in disturbance to an estimated 83 acres of 

forested wetland, 50 acres of moss muskeg, and 89 acres of forested wetland/emergent sedge complex, 

with a combined total disturbance of 226 acres or 31 percent of the analysis area (Table WET-3). 

However, these estimates likely overstate the acres in moss muskeg and emergent short-sedge wetlands 

that would be affected because they assume that all acres of these vegetation types in the right-of-way 

would be cleared. These wetland types mainly consist of low-lying vegetation with scattered tall trees 

and much of these areas in the right-of-way would not need to be cleared.
3 Environment and Effects

3-106 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wetlands Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Overall, this alternative would affect fewer acres of wetlands than the other action alternatives, with a 

total of 293 acres of impacts to wetlands from structure installation, temporary shovel trails, temporary 

matting panels, access spurs, and right-of way clearing. This alternative would also affect fewer acres of 

forested wetlands (Table WET-2).

Cumulative Effects

Estimates of existing wetland disturbance within the analysis area for this alternative are presented by 

disturbance type (road construction and past timber harvest) and wetland type in Table WET-1. This 

table indicates that past road construction and timber harvest has affected an estimated total of 

approximately 73 acres (10 percent) of wetlands in the analysis area for this alternative. This estimated 

total includes approximately 50 acres of cleared or previously harvested wetland with a forested 

vegetation class and approximately 30 acres of wetlands impacted by road construction.

Reasonably foreseeable projects within the analysis area for this alternative include the Central Kupreanof 

and Tonka timber sale projects. A total of 29.7 acres of identified harvest units for these projects coincide 

with the disturbance footprint for Alternative 4: 16.9 acres and 12.8 acres for Central Kupreanof and 

Tonka, respectively. Although NEPA-cleared, unless market conditions change, the Central Kupreanof 

units are not expected to be offered for sale over the next 5 years. In contrast, harvest of the Tonka units 

is expected to be completed in 2014.

The incremental addition of estimated wetland disturbance under Alternative 4 to existing wetland 

disturbance in the analysis area would result in total cumulative impacts to approximately 364 acres of 

wetland, including approximately 161 acres of forested wetlands, 132 acres of forested wetland/emergent 

sedge complex, 67 acres of moss muskeg, and 4 acres of emergent short-sedge wetlands. 

Mitigation 

Section 313 of the Clean Water Act and Executive Order 12088 require that BMPs that are consistent 

with State Forest Practices and other applicable State Water Quality Regulations be used to mitigate the 

impacts of land-disturbing activities. Site-specific application of these BMPs are designed with 

consideration of geology, land type, hydrology, soil type, erosion hazard, climate, cumulative effects, and 

other factors in order to protect and maintain soil, water and water-related beneficial uses. 

Where temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs are located in wetland habitat, the Forest Plan 

standards and guidelines direct avoidance of wetlands where possible. Additionally, the standards and 

guidelines protect riparian areas from direct impact. The effects of the project on wetlands would be 

limited through the site-specific application of Forest Plan standards and guidelines as well as National, 

Federal, and State BMPs for all action alternatives (see Chapter 2). Forest-wide BMP implementation 

monitoring has consistently reported a high level of compliance (Landwehr 2008). 

Due to the preponderance of wetlands and the interspersed nature of wetlands with uplands on the 

analysis area, complete avoidance of wetlands from project activities is not feasible. Final project design 

for the selected alternative would avoid and minimize wetland impacts, as practicable.
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Wildlife and Subsistence

Introduction 

This section evaluates impacts to wildlife and subsistence resources. The following subsections address 

wildlife habitat, including the old-growth forest ecosystem and old-growth reserves; Forest Service 

Management Indicator Species; threatened, endangered, and sensitive species; migratory birds; endemic 

species; and subsistence.

Analysis Area

The analysis area for direct and indirect effects to wildlife and subsistence consists of several scales, 

including the VCUs and Wildlife Analysis Areas (WAAs). VCUs are NFS land divisions that 

approximate watersheds. The analysis area for wildlife and subsistence consists of the VCUs that would 

be crossed by the proposed alternatives. WAAs, which encompass multiple VCUs, are geographic 

subdivisions of GMUs within which ADF&G manages wildlife populations. The KPI Project is located 

within GMU 3, which encompasses Coronation, Kuiu, Kupreanof, Mitkof, Zarembo, Kashevarof, 

Woronkofski, Etolin, Wrangell, and Deer Islands. Analysis areas for wildlife and subsistence are defined 

as follows:

• Habitat impacts (old-growth and landscape connectivity) were assessed at the scale of the 

individual VCUs which collectively comprise the analysis area to capture localized effects to the 

old-growth forest ecosystem associated with habitat loss and fragmentation and for the project 

area as whole. Minimum acreage requirements for small old-growth reserves, which are crossed 

by the project, are also established at the VCU scale. 

• For cavity nesting species, red squirrels, migratory birds, and endemic species impacts were 

assessed at the VCU scale. 

• For wider-ranging species such as the black-tailed deer, wolves, marten, and black bears, and for 

subsistence resources, impacts were assessed at the WAA or multiple WAA scale which extend 

beyond the project area boundary. 

These scales of analysis are commensurate for the project because they provide a consistent approach for 

analyzing impacts based on the Forest Plan. For the analysis of cumulative effects, the analysis areas are 

the same as those described above for direct and indirect effects because these areas already extend 

beyond the project-related effects (i.e., beyond the areas disturbed by each alternative).

Methodology 

Sources of information used in the preparation of this analysis include field reconnaissance, aerial photo 

interpretation, existing Forest Service GIS data, peer-reviewed literature (cited as appropriate below), 

prior NEPA analyses in the vicinity of the KPI Project, and information from knowledgeable individuals. 

This section describes field surveys conducted for the project and the methodology for classifying wildlife 

habitat and for conducting analysis using the interagency deer habitat capability model. The Analyzing 

Effects section at the beginning of this chapter describes general methods for cumulative effects and 

provides a list of ongoing and foreseeable projects.

Field Surveys

Surveys for the Queen Charlotte goshawk (Accipiter gentilis laingi) were conducted within the analysis 

area in June and July of 2011 according to the Tongass National Forest Project-level Goshawk Inventory 

Protocol (Stangle 2009). During these surveys, observations of MIS and other species of interest were 

recorded. See the Wildlife and Subsistence Use Resource Report and the draft Biological 
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Assessment/Biological Evaluation prepared for this project for additional information on survey effort 

and other wildlife observations (Tetra Tech 2014f; Tetra Tech 2014c).

Supplemental information on the presence of endemic mammals in the vicinity of the KPI Project was 

obtained from small mammal trapping conducted in association with the Island Surveys to Locate 

Endemic Species (ISLES) program (http://www.msb.unm.edu/mammals/ISLES_ 

website_final_20091028/ isles_home.html). In compliance with the Forest Plan, field surveys for 

endemic mammals were not conducted in the analysis area because Kupreanof and Mitkof Islands both 

exceed 50,000 acres and because there is a relatively low likelihood of endemics occurring in the analysis 

area (Cook et al. 2006); known endemics include the insular dusky shrew and large mammal species 

managed by ADF&G.

Vegetation Classification and the Size-Density Model

Old-growth forests on the Tongass can be classified as unproductive and productive. Productive oldgrowth (POG) is generally defined as old growth forest capable of producing at least 20 cubic feet of 

wood fiber per acre per year, or having greater than 8,000 board feet per acre. The Size-Density Model 

(SDM), which uses a combination of tree sizes and tree densities to classify forest structure (Caouette et 

al. 2006), is used by Forest Service managers and planners to map POG and assess impacts to wildlife 

and habitats. This classification system builds on the timber volume-based classification system (volume 

strata) for POG used prior to the 2008 Forest Plan (low-, medium-, and high-volume), which used only 

hydric soils and steep slopes as measures productivity and growth. By incorporating the characterization 

of forest structure, the SDM is more applicable in assessing biodiversity, estimating timber values, and 

describing wildlife habitat than using timber volume alone. The following seven POG types have been 

defined which illustrate the crosswalk between the volume strata approach and the SDM (USDA Forest 

Service 2008c):

• SD4H: Volume class 4 on hydric soils. Low productive older forests associated with wet, poorly 

drained land types. Canopy closure is variable. Trees are small, old, and defective. Stand 

volume is low.

• SD4N: Volume class 4 on non-hydric soils, north aspect, or flat. Low to moderately productive 

older upland forests. Canopy characteristics are variable and patchy, with moderate canopy 

closure and relatively coarse canopy texture. Stand volume is low to moderate. 

• SD4S: Volume Class 4 on non-hydric soils, not north aspect, or flat. Highly productive younger 

upland forests. Stand volume is moderate, but increasing rapidly. Crown competition is high. 

Canopy characteristics tend to be uniform, with high canopy closure and fine canopy texture.

• SD5H: Volume class 5 on hydric soils. Moderately productive older forests associated with wet, 

poorly drained land types. Canopy closure, texture, and structure tend to be variable and patchy. 

Stand volume and annual growth is also variable and patchy.

• SD5N: Volume class 5 on non-hydric soils, north aspect, or flat. Moderately productive older 

upland forests. Stand volume is moderate to high. Canopy characteristics tend to be variable, 

with moderate canopy closure and coarse canopy texture.

• SD5S: Volume class 5 on non-hydric soils, not north aspect, or flat. Highly productive upland 

forests. Stand volume is high. Canopy characteristics tend to be uniform, with moderate to high 

canopy closures.

• SD67: Volume classes 6 and 7. Highly productive forests associated with riparian areas, alluvial 

fans, colluvial toe slopes, karst geology, and wind-protected uplands. Stand volume is high. 

Stand age can vary. Canopy closure is low to moderate and canopy texture is coarse.
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-109

POG is defined further in terms of two categories. High-volume POG is defined as the grouping of the 

three SD Model types that represent the highest volume stratum—SD5S, SD5N, and SD67 types. Largetree POG is defined as the SD67 type, representing the most productive of the POG types, and typically 

containing the highest density of large trees. The 2008 Forest Plan Final EIS provides more information 

on the development and use of the SDM (Forest Service 2008c).

Deer and Wolf Analysis

Forest Plan standards and guidelines require the use of the most recent version of the interagency deer 

habitat capability model to assess impacts to deer habitat (WILD4.XIV.A.2; USDA Forest Service 

2008a). The deer model takes into account snow depth (indicative of typical, moderate winter severity), 

elevation, aspect, and conifer forest successional stage to provide a habitat suitability index (HSI) of 

habitat capability. High model scores represent features that are correlated with high value deer habitat. 

These features include closed canopy (based on volume class rather than canopy cover), maritime 

influence, low elevation south facing slopes, and low average snow depth. Habitat capability values are 

used in this analysis to estimate changes that result from timber harvest, but do not reflect actual deer 

numbers. Shortcomings of the model are described in detail in the 2008 Forest Plan Final EIS (USDA 

Forest Service 2008c). Model assumptions, based on recent direction provided by the Forest Service, 

include the following: 

• Historic conditions were defined as the conditions that existed prior to the onset of large-scale 

logging in 1954. Historic conditions were reconstructed by converting the 1986 vegetation 

mapping (TIM86) to the SDM types and then converting the areas mapped as harvested prior to 

that date into the different volstrata and SD67 POG, based on the proportion of these categories in 

areas harvested prior to 1992.

• All vegetation removal is treated as even-aged harvest. 

• Stem exclusion was considered 25 years post-harvest (stands 26 to 150 years of age).

• Values output by the model were standardized to range from 0 to 1.0 by dividing all values by 

1.3.

• 100 deer per square mile was used as the multiplier.

• Only NFS lands were in the project-related effects (direct and indirect effects) analysis. All land 

ownerships (NFS and non-NFS lands) were included in the cumulative effects analysis; however, 

non-NFS lands were given a zero value (conservatively assuming harvest of all non-NFS lands). 

• All elevations are included in the analysis, but the model gives acres above 1,500 feet a zero 

value.

• Model runs assumed 2013 as the current year, and 2015 for project implementation.

• Lakes and lake islands were excluded from the analysis.

• Entire land areas for WAAs where project activities are proposed (WAAs 2007, 5130, 5131, 5132, 

5133, 5135, 5136, 5137, 5138) were included in the direct and indirect effects analysis.

• No predation was included.

Affected Environment 

Wildlife Habitat

The proposed project is located within the Kupreanof/Mitkof Island biogeographic province, which 

includes the greatest extent of low-lying, muskeg wetlands of the biogeographic provinces in Southeast 

Alaska (USDA Forest Service 2008c). Typical of Southeast Alaska and the Tongass National Forest, 

vegetation within the analysis area is dominated by temperate coastal rain forests at lower elevations (less 
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than 2,000 feet elevation), with interspersed muskegs, other wetlands, and other nonforest types. At 

higher elevations, alpine vegetation, rock, glaciers, and snowfields dominate. The discussion of wildlife 

habitat in this analysis focuses on the old-growth forest ecosystem that all the species of concern are 

associated with.

Old-growth Forest Ecosystem

Old-growth forests support high levels of biodiversity due to their structural and ecological complexity. 

In Southeast Alaska, old-growth forests are typically greater than 150 years old, and are characterized by 

complex canopies; an interspersion of trees of multiple age classes; the presence of snags, decadent trees, 

and fallen trees; and a variation in the amounts and distribution of live trees. These features create 

intricate habitat niches that support many plant and animal species (Spies 2004). 

There are currently approximately 141,673 acres of POG forest within the analysis area, of which 48,506

acres are high-volume POG and 7,799 acres are large- tree POG (Table WILD-1). Note that a majority of 

the POG within the analysis area is below 1,500 feet elevation.

Table WILD-1. Existing Total, High-Volume, and Large-Tree POG by Elevation within VCUs 

Crossed by the KPI Route Corridors

Scale1/ Elevation (ft)

Acres of Productive Old-growth2/

Total High Volume Large Tree

VCU

 4230 <800 266 1 0

801-1,500 198 41 0

>1,500 255 127 0

Total 719 169 0

 4240 <800 6,650 1,043 26

801-1,500 3,443 1,375 132

>1,500 1,482 483 47

Total 11,575 2,901 206

 4250 <800 9,366 1,750 412

801-1,500 633 71 32

>1,500 270 13 10

Total 10,269 1,834 454

 4260 <800 8,355 1,297 352

801-1,500 1,720 808 102

>1,500 436 182 4

Total 10,512 2,288 457

 4271 <800 3,257 447 221

801-1,500 703 288 22

>1,500 277 129 0

Total 4,236 864 243

 4290 <800 15,745 4,292 1,181

801-1,500 4,864 1,499 183

>1,500 522 116 14

Total 21,131 5,907 1,378

 4370 <800 5,556 1,889 50

801-1,500 3,732 1,899 63

>1,500 1,274 513 21

Total 10,562 4,301 134
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Table WILD-1. Existing Total, High-Volume, and Large-Tree POG by Elevation within VCUs 

Crossed by the KPI Route Corridors (continued)

Scale1/ Elevation (ft)

Acres of Productive Old-growth2/

Total High Volume Large Tree

 4380 <800 6,404 1,280 338

801-1,500 3,121 952 138

>1,500 588 110 0

Total 10,113 2,342 476

4410 <800 764 219 158

801-1,500 324 120 50

>1,500 143 84 19

Total 1,231 423 227

4420 <800 3,128 1,336 329

801-1,500 819 544 32

>1,500 885 189 12

Total 4,833 2,068 373

4440 <800 5,631 1,692 383

801-1,500 3,242 1,264 171

>1,500 2,093 972 16

Total 10,966 3,927 570

4450 <800 7,598 4,093 626

801-1,500 5,077 3,121 209

>1,500 1,951 923 1

Total 14,626 8,138 836

4460 <800 2,615 1,122 362

801-1,500 1,785 938 212

>1,500 448 272 17

Total 4,849 2,332 592

4470 <800 14,356 5,419 1,217

801-1,500 8,943 4,810 534

>1,500 2,752 781 102

Total 26,050 11,010 1,852

VCUs 

Combine

d

<800 89,691 25,880 5,655

801-1,500 38,604 17,732 1,880

>1,500 13,378 4,895 263

Total 141,673 48,506 7,799

Notes:

1/ Includes NFS and non-NFS lands; accounts for entire VCUs crossed by the KPI route corridors.

2/ High-volume POG includes the SD5N, 5S, and 6/7 categories; large-tree POG includes the SD6/7 category.

Landscape Connectivity/Fragmentation

Landscape connectivity is defined as the degree to which the structure of a landscape helps or hinders the 

movement of wildlife species (Taylor et al. 1993). A landscape with a high degree of connectivity is one 

in which wildlife move readily between habitat patches over the long-term (USDA Forest Service 2008c). 

Fragmentation occurs when large blocks of habitat are broken into smaller parcels by natural (e.g., 

windthrow) or human induced (e.g., roads, timber harvest, transmission line corridors) forces. As habitat 

is lost or fragmented, residual habitat patches become smaller and more isolated from each other. Open 

spaces left by fragmentation can act as travel barriers for some species, or increase the risk of predation 

for other species that venture across them. On the Tongass, connectivity between areas of similar habitats 
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3-112 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

(i.e., old-growth forest) or between high and low elevation habitats is important to maintaining welldistributed, viable wildlife populations.

Landscape connectivity can be both structurally and functionally based. Structural connectivity refers to 

the physical connections between areas of habitat that facilitate movement of wildlife (e.g., riparian 

corridors; Julin 1997). Functional connectivity refers to the degree of movement or flow of organisms 

through broader linkage “zones” which contain an appropriate juxtaposition of habitats and land uses that 

facilitate movement across the landscape. On the Tongass, matrix lands also provide a limited degree of 

functional connectivity between OGRs and other non-development LUDs.

Compared to other island groups with numerous fiords and rugged relief that reduce connectivity for 

wildlife, Kupreanof and Mitkof islands have a low degree of natural fragmentation (Carstensen et al. 

2007). However, the narrow area of land between Portage Bay and Duncan Canal is a pinch point

separating the Lindberg Peninsula from the rest of Kupreanof Island which may restrict dispersal or 

migration of some land-based wildlife species. Old-growth forest within the analysis area is naturally 

fragmented because it is interspersed between extensive areas of muskeg. It has also been fragmented by 

past timber harvest and to a lesser extent road development.

Forest Plan Conservation Strategy and Old-Growth Reserves

Conservation Strategy 

The Forest Plan Conservation Strategy was developed to maintain the integrity of the old-growth forest 

by retaining intact, largely undisturbed habitat. This strategy, initially incorporated into the 1997 Forest 

Plan, was reviewed and amended for incorporation into the 2008 Forest Plan. The conservation strategy 

includes two major components: (1) a forest-wide network of large, medium and small OGRs allocated to 

the Old-Growth LUD plus all small islands less than 1,000 acres, and (2) a series of standards and 

guidelines applicable to lands where timber harvest is permitted (the matrix; USDA Forest Service 2008b, 

2008c). 

The OGR system was designed to maintain habitats of the species that have the most viability concerns 

(USDA Forest Service 2008c). The reserve network also includes other non-development LUDs such as 

Wilderness, LUD II, Remote and Semi-Remote Recreation that essentially maintain the old-growth 

ecosystem. The intent of the reserve system was to help ensure the maintenance of well-distributed viable 

populations of all old-growth associated wildlife species across the Tongass, with focus on those species 

that are most sensitive to habitat loss and fragmentation. For a complete review of the Forest Plan 

Conservation Strategy, including assumptions underlying the design of the OGR system, refer to 

Appendix D of the 2008 Forest Plan Final EIS (USDA Forest Service 2008c). 

Within the matrix (areas outside of reserves), components of the old-growth ecosystem are maintained 

through a series of standards and guidelines designed to provide for important ecological functions such 

as dispersal of organisms, movement between forest stands, and maintenance of ecologically valuable 

structural components such as down logs, snags, and large trees (USDA Forest Service 2008c). Matrix 

lands include Experimental Forest, Modified Landscape, Scenic Viewshed, and Timber Production 

LUDs. Standards and guidelines applicable to these lands include the 1,000-foot beach buffer, variablewidth stream buffers, reserve tree/cavity-nesting habitat, and a number of species-specific standards and 

guidelines (e.g., raptor nest and wolf den buffers).

Old-growth Reserves

The analysis area includes small OGRs located in VCUs 4250, 4260, 4290, 4380, 4420, 4440, and 4460. 

The analysis area also includes portions of medium OGRs in VCUs 4240, 4370, and 4470. Under the 

Forest Plan conservation strategy, small OGRs were intended to facilitate functional connectivity (i.e., 
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connectivity through disconnected patches of old-growth forest) between larger reserves and ensure welldistributed wildlife populations.

Appendix D of the 2008 Forest Plan FEIS (USDA Forest Service 2008c) and Appendix K of the Forest 

Plan (USDA Forest Service 2008a) outline design criteria including minimum acreage requirements for 

the reserve system. Medium must include at least 5,000 acres of POG, of which 2,500 acres were 

intended to be high-volume. Small reserves must contain at least 16 percent of the area of a VCU in a 

contiguous landscape, with at least 50 percent of that area consisting of POG. Table WILD-2 displays the 

consistency of each analysis area OGR with Forest Plan minimum acreage requirements.

According to the Forest Plan (Appendix K, p K-1) modifications to OGRs other than minor (e.g., 

correction of mapping errata) may require a project level review if (1) actions proposed within the OGR 

will reduce the integrity of the old-growth habitat in the OGR or (2) the OGR will be affected by a land 

conveyance, power line, mine or other project that was not considered in the Forest Plan.

The following briefly describes each OGR within the analysis area:

VCU 4240 (Bohemia) – This is a medium OGR located on the northern end of Kupreanof Island, 

adjacent to Frederick Sound. Currently, the medium OGR in VCU 4240 alone does not meet Forest Plan 

minimum acreage requirements for POG; however the adjacent non-development LUD incudes the 

additional POG acres (Table WILD-2).

VCU 4250 (no name) – This is a split small OGR located in the northwestern portion of Kupreanof 

Island. There is a northern piece north of Hamilton Bay, and a larger, southern piece bordering the 

southern shore of Hamilton Bay and extending to the VCU boundary. This small OGR connects to the 

small OGR in VCU 4260. NFS roads make up a portion of the boundary of the northern portion of this 

OGR (approximately 1.7 miles). Currently, the small OGR in VCU 4250 does not meet Forest Plan 

minimum acreage requirements (Table WILD-2).

VCU 4260 (no name) – This small OGR extends east from Hamilton Bay, and overlaps into VCU 4400 

(not included in the analysis area). It also connects with small OGRs in VCUs 4250 to the west.

Currently, the small OGR in VCU 4260 meets Forest Plan minimum acreage requirements (Table WILD2).

VCU 4290 (Tunehean and Irish Creeks) – This is a split small OGR is located in the central portion of 

Kupreanof Island. There is a northern piece that includes a portion of Irish Creek, and a southern piece 

that includes a portion of Tunehean Creek. Currently, the small OGR in VCU 4290 alone does not meet

Forest Plan minimum acreage requirements; however, a non-development LUD adjacent to the northern 

piece includes the additional total and POG acres (Table WILD-2).

VCU 4370 (South Lindenberg) – This medium OGR is located along the west side of Duncan Canal. It 

overlaps into VCUs 4470 and 4480 (outside the analysis area). Currently, the medium OGR in VCU 

4370 does not meet Forest Plan minimum acreage requirements (Table WILD-2).

VCU 4380 (no name) – This small OGR is located in the east central portion of Kupreanof Island. 

Currently, the small OGR in VCU 4380 alone does not meet Forest Plan minimum acreage requirements; 

however, adjacent a non-development LUD includes the additional total and POG acres (Table WILD-2).

VCU 4420 (Portage Bay) – This small OGR is located along the west shore of Portage Bay. Currently,

the small OGR in VCU 4420 meets Forest Plan minimum acreage requirements (Table WILD-2).

VCU 4440 (no name) – This small OGR is located near the northeastern portion of the Lindenberg 

Peninsula, northwest of Scott Peak. It connects with the small OGR in VCU 4430 (outside the KPI 

analysis area). NFS roads form a portion of the border of this OGR and occur within the OGR 

(approximately 2.3 miles, of which 0.05 is open). Currently, the small OGR in VCU 4440 meets Forest 

Plan minimum acreage requirements (Table WILD-2).
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Table WILD-2. Existing Old-Growth Reserves in the KPI Analysis Area

VCU/OGR1/

OGR 

Size

Required 

OGR 

acres2/

Existing 

OGR 

acres

Required 

POG 

acres

Existing 

POG acres

Required 

High-volume 

POG acres3/

Existing 

High-volume 

POG acres

Forest Plan Acreage requirements 

met?

VCU 4240-Bohemia Medium NA 14476 5,000 4224 2,500 1345 No. Acceptable because adjacent 

Non-development LUD includes the 

additional total and POG acres; falls 

short on high volume POG.

VCU 4250-no name Small 6540 5462 3270 2691 NA NA No. Falls short on total and POG 

acreage.

VCU 4260- no name 4/ Small 6794 6829 3397 3425 NA NA Yes

VCU 4290-Tunehean 

and Irish Creeks

Small 8571 6933 4285 3627 NA NA No. Acceptable because Nondevelopment LUD adjacent to 

northern piece includes the 

additional total and POG acres.

VCU 4370- South 

Lindenberg

Medium NA 5274 5,000 2575 2,500 1800 No

VCU 4380- No name Small 4422 4360 2211 2205 NA NA No. Acceptable because adjacent 

Non-development LUD includes the 

additional total and POG acres.

VCU 4420-Portage 

Bay

Small 1797 1806 898 1527 NA NA Yes

VCU 4440- no name Small 3858 3905 1929 2495 NA NA Yes

VCU 4460- no name Small 1786 1883 893 1080 NA NA Yes

VCU 4470 – South 

Lindenberg (west 

OGR), Goose Lake 

(east OGR)

Medium NA 5700 5,000 1953 2,500 696 No. Acceptable because adjacent 

Non-development LUD add 

additional POG acres; but falls short 

on high volume POG.

Notes:

1/ There are no OGRs in VCU 4230, 4271, 4410, 4450.

2/ For small OGRs, 16% of VCU acres; should be at least 10,000 acres but can include adjacent non-development LUD acreage. T hese Forest Plan OGR acreage requirements do 

not apply to medium OGRs, as indicated by “NA” in the corresponding table cells.

3/ For small OGRs, 50% of OGR acres; for medium OGRs at least 5,000 acres should be POG, of which 2,500 should be high-volume POG. There are no high-volume POG 

acreage requirements for small OGRs, as indicated by “NA” in the corresponding table cells.

4/ Small OGR overlaps with VCU 4400.
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VCU 4460 (no name) – This small OGR is located on the east side of the Lindenberg Peninsula between 

Sherman and Del Monte Peaks. Currently, the small OGR in VCU 4460 meets Forest Plan minimum 

acreage requirements (Table WILD-2). 

VCU 4470 (South Lindenberg, Goose Lake) – This VCU includes the South Lindenberg medium OGR 

which overlaps into VCUs 4370 and 4480 (outside the analysis area); it also includes a medium OGR near 

Goose Lake. Currently, medium OGRs in VCU 4470 alone do not meet Forest Plan minimum acreage 

requirements, but the adjacent non-development LUD includes the additional POG acreage (Table WILD-2).

Management Indicator Species

MIS are species whose response to land management activities can be used to predict the likely response 

of other species with similar habitat requirements (Forest Service Manual [FSM] 2631.3). In accordance 

with the 1982 Planning Regulations, 13 wildlife species were identified as MIS in the Forest Plan (USDA 

Forest Service 2008c). Nine of these species are addressed below along with the rationale for their 

selection. All of the wildlife MIS are associated with POG forests of Southeast Alaska. 

Black Bear

Black bears were chosen as an MIS because of their importance for hunting and for recreation and 

tourism. They also may play a role in transferring marine nutrients into the terrestrial environment 

(Schoen and Peacock 2006). Black bears will use habitats from sea level to the alpine but appear to prefer 

estuarine, riparian, and forested coastal habitats (USDA Forest Service 2008c). They require largediameter trees and snags for denning which are found in POG forests. In GMU 3, the highest quality 

black bear habitat is characterized by low-elevation old-growth forest with abundant and productive 

salmon streams and interspersed by small openings and disturbed areas such as wetlands, avalanche 

chutes, clear cuts, and subalpine meadows (ADF&G 2008). 

There are 282,962 acres of POG within the WAAs encompassing the KPI Project, ranging from 11,571 

acres in WAA 5135 to 63,884 acres in WAA 2007 (Table WILD-3). There are many Class I fish-bearing 

(salmon) streams in the analysis area for black bears, the most important being Coho Creek, Colorado 

Creek, Taylor Creek, Fivemile Creek, Twelvemile Creek, Big John Creek, Big Creek, Cathedral Falls 

Creek, Petersburg Creek, and Hamilton Creek (see the Aquatic Resources section for additional 

information). The Wildlife and Subsistence Resource Report provides additional information on harvest 

statistics for black bears in GMU 3 (Tetra Tech 2014f).

Table WILD-3. Existing POG (All Elevations) within the Analysis Area WAAs 

WAA Acres of POG

2007 63,884

5130 42,315

5131 25,065

5132 12,018

5133 44,622

5135 11,571

5136 27,400

5137 24,775

5138 31,312

Total 282,962
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Sitka Black-tailed Deer

The Sitka black-tailed deer was selected as an MIS species because it is an important game and 

subsistence species in Southeast Alaska. They are also an important prey species for Alexander 

Archipelago wolves and black bears. ADF&G managers believe the deer population in GMU 3 is 

declining, based on observed declines in pellet-group densities and estimated hunter harvest (Lowell 

2011). Factors potentially contributing to this decline include three consecutive severe winters (2006-

2007, 2007-2008, and 2008-2009), reduction in deer habitat capability (harvest of POG forest and 

succession of young-growth stands to the stem exclusion phase), and predation by wolves (Lowell 2011).

Research conducted in Southeast Alaska indicates that low-elevation, high-volume old-growth habitats 

are particularly important to deer, especially during severe winters (Schoen and Kirchhoff 1990; Hanley 

and Rose 1987; Yeo and Peek 1992). These old-growth stands intercept snow, provide thermal cover, 

and support the largest biomass of herb and shrub forage for deer (Alaback 1982; Schoen et al. 1984). 

During periods of heavy snow, Sitka black-tailed deer on Mitkof Island move to lower elevation, southfacing slopes that are closer to water where snow is less deep (Doerr et al. 2005).

Random events such as snow and other weather conditions can influence the ecology and behavior of 

wintering deer by decreasing forage availability and increasing the amount of energy it takes to move 

through the forest (Hanley et al. 1989; Farmer et al. 2006; White et al. 2009). Thus, the habitats available 

to deer differ depending on winter severity, and can be defined as: 

• Average snow winter habitat is defined as all POG below 1,500 feet elevation, and 

• Deep snow winter habitat is defined as high-volume POG below 800 feet elevation, representing 

the shift toward use of lower elevations and more dense stands of POG during severe winters.

There are 257,707 acres of average snow winter habitat and 55,460 acres of deep snow winter habitat in 

the analysis area (Table WILD-4). 

Spring, summer, and fall habitats (non-winter) are also important for deer reproduction and population 

recovery following severe winters, and for building up pre-winter body reserves. These habitats include 

all vegetation types, except young-growth in the stem exclusion phase. There are 537,189 acres of nonwinter habitat in the analysis area (Table WILD-4).

Table WILD-4. Existing Deep Snow Winter Habitat, Average Snow Winter Habitat, and NonWinter Habitat by WAA (all landownerships included)

WAA

Deep Snow Winter Habitat1/ Average Snow Winter Habitat2/ Non-winter Habitat3/

Acres

% of WAA with 

Available Habitat Acres

% of WAA with 

Available Habitat Acres

% of WAA with 

Available Habitat

2007 13,135 9.8 55,729 41.4 98,377 73.2

5130 9,243 9.9 41,713 44.8 85,199 91.5

5131 4,026 5.7 24,352 34.7 44,293 63.0

5132 1,769 2.0 11,487 13.0 49,012 55.6

5133 8,359 7.8 42,796 39.7 80,871 75.1

5135 1,041 1.9 10,088 18.2 36,211 65.4

5136 5,497 9.2 22,486 37.5 48,711 81.3

5137 5,991 11.8 21,437 42.4 43,167 85.4

5138 6,399 9.1 27,618 39.5 51,347 73.4

Total 55,460 7.6 257,707 35.3 537,187 73.6

Notes:

1/ High-volume POG (SD 5S, 5N, 67) at or below 800 feet elevation; no GIS snow layer applied

2/ All POG (SD 4H, 4N, 4S, 5H, 5S, 5N, 67) at or below 1,500 feet elevation

3/ Spring/summer/fall habitat; all POG, non-productive old-growth and non-forested muskeg, alpine habitats
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The interagency deer winter habitat capability model was used to assess existing habitat capability in the 

WAAs coinciding with the KPI Project. Model assumptions are described above under Methods. 

Historic (1954) and current (2013) deer habitat capability is presented in Table WILD-5. Current habitat 

capability in the analysis area WAAs (NFS lands only) ranges from 72 to 97 percent of that existing in 

1954 (Table WILD-5).

Table WILD-5. Deer Winter Habitat Capability (NFS Lands Only)

WAA

1954 (Historic) Deer Habitat 

Capability 1/

2013 (Current) Deer Habitat Capability 1/

Deer Habitat Capability 

Units % of Original

2007 2,838 2,238 79

5130 2,860 2,688 94

5131 2,118 1,856 88

5132 1,180 856 72

5133 2,927 2,783 95

5135 1,158 1,127 97

5136 1,538 1,263 82

5137 1,322 1,265 96

5138 1,890 1,638 87

Total 17,831 15,714 88

1/ Deer habitat capability, in deer habitat units, calculated from the deer model for winter habitat. Habitat Suitability Indices 

were standardized to range from 0.0 to 1.0; 100 deer per square mile used as multiplier; all tree clearing was treated as even-aged 

harvest; no predation was included. 

Source: GIS Database, deer_model.aml, 2013

Alexander Archipelago Wolf

The Alexander Archipelago wolf was selected as an MIS because it is a species of concern and an 

important furbearer. Although there are no qualitative estimates of wolf abundance for GMU 3, wolf 

numbers are thought to be the highest on islands in the central and southern half of Southeast Alaska, 

including Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands (ADF&G 2012). In GMU 3, some members of the public have 

expressed public concerns about overly abundant wolf populations in relation to low deer numbers and 

poor chances of harvesting deer (ADF&G 2012). 

Wolves in Southeast Alaska use a wide variety of habitats but spend most of their time in productive and 

unproductive old-growth forests at low elevations (below 270 feet [82 meters]); young seral forests and 

clearcuts are typically avoided (Person 2001). In GMU 3, wolves feed primarily on deer, though moose 

are an important food source on some GMU 3 islands (Lowell 2009). Wolves will also feed on beaver 

and spawning salmon when available (Darimont et al. 2002; Szepanski et al. 1999). 

Critical deer winter habitat was considered by Person (2001) to be a good measure of habitat quality for 

wolves in southern Southeast Alaska. Forest Plan standards and guidelines require, where possible, the 

provision of sufficient deer habitat capability to first maintain sustainable wolf populations, and then to 

consider meeting estimated human deer harvest demands. This is generally considered to equate to the 

habitat capability to support a minimum of 18 deer per square mile (using habitat capability model 

outputs; USDA Forest Service 2008a). However, other factors (e.g., local knowledge of habitat 

conditions) are to be considered by the biologist, as well, rather than solely relying upon model outputs.

Table WILD-6 summarizes existing deer habitat capability in terms of modeled deer densities in the 

analysis area WAAs, where between 72 and 97 percent of the 1954 deer habitat capability remains.
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Table WILD-6. Existing Deer Winter Habitat Capability in terms of Deer Density by WAA (NFS 

Lands Only)

WAA 1954 (Historic) Deer Habitat Capability (deer/mi2)

1/

2013 (Current) Deer Habitat Capability1/

Deer/mi2 % of Original

2007 17.4 13.8 79

5130 20.3 19.1 94

5131 19.3 16.9 88

5132 20.5 14.9 72

5133 17.4 16.6 95

5135 13.4 13.0 97

5136 16.5 13.5 82

5137 16.8 16.0 96

5138 19.6 17.0 87

Total 17.9 15.8 88

Note:

1/ Deer habitat capability, in deer habitat units, calculated from the deer model for winter habitat. Habitat Suitability Indices 

were standardized to range from 0.0 to 1.0; 100 deer per square mile used as multiplier; all tree clearing was treated as even-aged 

harvest; no predation was included. 

Source: GIS Database, deer_model.aml, 2013

Although most wolves (i.e., 59 percent) are harvested by hunters and trappers working from boats,

harvest-related wolf mortality is correlated with roads and other habitat features, which influence their 

vulnerability to harvest (Person and Russell 2008; Person and Logan 2012). Person and Russell (2008) 

found that rate of harvest of both resident and non-resident wolves increased with density of roads, which 

provide access to hunters and trappers. The Forest Plan states that a road density of 0.7 to 1.0 mile per 

square mile or less may be necessary to reduce harvest-related mortality risk where locally unsustainable 

wolf mortality has been identified (USDA Forest Service 2008a). Unsustainable wolf mortality has not 

been identified as a concern for wolves in GMU 3. Currently, total road density below 1,200 feet 

elevation in the analysis area WAAs is 0.4 mile per square mile, ranging from 0.0 mile per square mile in 

WAA 5137 to 0.9 mile per square mile in WAA 2007 (Table WILD-7). 

Table WILD-7. Existing Road Density below 1,200 Feet Elevation

WAA1/

Road Density (mi/mi2)2/

Open Closed Total

2007 0.8 0.1 0.9

5130 0.1 0.0 0.2

5131 0.4 0.0 0.4

5132 0.3 0.0 0.4

5133 0.0 0.0 0.1

5135 0.2 --- 0.2

5136 0.4 0.1 0.5

5137 0.0 --- 0.0

5138 0.6 0.0 0.6

Total (all WAAs combined) 0.4 0.0 0.4

Notes:

1/ Includes NFS and non-NFS lands.

2/ Closed roads are defined as all NFS roads with Operating Maintenance Level = 1, plus all decommissioned NFS roads; open 

roads include all other NFS roads and all state and private roads. Dashed lines indicate WAAs with no closed roads.
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Marten

The marten was selected as an MIS because of its close association with old-growth forests and its 

importance as a furbearer. Although only one species of marten is formally recognized in Southeast 

Alaska two distinct lineages exist. The coastal form caurina is endemic and thought to occur only on 

Kuiu and Admiralty Islands. The continental form occurs elsewhere, including Mitkof and Kupreanof 

Islands. With the exception of Kuiu Island marten, no formal field surveys were conducted in GMU 3 to 

determine marten status or trends; however, based on results of the trapper questionnaire and ADF&G 

managers’ field observations, the marten population appears stable (Lowell 2010). 

Coastal habitats (beach fringe) and riparian areas have the highest habitat value for marten, followed by 

upland forested habitats below 1,500 feet in elevation (USDA Forest Service 2008a). Marten favor largeand medium-sized old-growth forests because they intercept snow, provide cover and denning sites, and 

provide habitat for marten prey species (Flynn and Schumacher 2001). These forests are also used by 

deer during winter, and winter-kill carcasses of deer represented a significant portion of marten diet in 

winter (Ben David et al. 1997). Therefore, the availability of deep-snow marten habitat, defined as highvolume POG (SD 5N, 5S, and 67) below 800 feet in elevation, provides a measure of habitat quality for 

marten. Within the analysis area WAAs, there are currently 55,460 acres of deep snow marten habitat 

(Table WILD-8).

Table WILD-8. Original and Existing Deep Snow Marten Habitat

WAA Deep Snow Marten Habitat (acres)1/, 2/

2007 13,135

5130 9,243

5131 4,026

5132 1,769

5133 8,359

5135 1,041

5136 5,497

5137 5,991

5138 6,399

Total 55,460

Notes:

1/ Includes NFS and non-NFS lands.

2/High volume POG (SD 5S, 5N, 6/7) at or below 800 feet elevation

Although marten travel easily through non-commercial forests, POG, and clearcuts with established cover 

(Flynn et al. 2007), they require large, contiguous patches of old-growths (Hargis et al. 1999; Flynn et al. 

2004). These areas provide refugia from trapping pressure. Large areas of unroaded, non-coastal habitat 

provide important refugia for marten in GMU 3. Increased human access associated with new roads or 

corridors may result in increased marten harvest-related mortality. Existing road densities (all elevations 

included) in the analysis area WAAs are listed in Table WILD-9. 
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Table WILD-9. Existing Road Density including All Elevations

WAA1/

Road Density (mi/mi2)

2/

Open Closed Total

2007 0.8 0.1 0.9

5130 0.1 0.0 0.2

5131 0.4 0.0 0.4

5132 0.3 0.0 0.4

5133 0.0 0.0 0.1

5135 0.2 --- 0.2

5136 0.4 0.1 0.5

5137 0.0 --- 0.0

5138 0.6 0.0 0.6

Total 0.4 0.0 0.4

Notes:

1/ Includes NFS and non-NFS lands.

2/ Closed roads are defined as all NFS roads with Operating Maintenance Level = 1, plus all decommissioned NFS roads; open 

roads include all other NFS roads and all state and private roads. Dashed lines indicate WAAs with no closed roads.

River Otter

The river otter was selected as an MIS because of its association with coastal and freshwater aquatic 

environments and the immediately adjacent (within 100 to 500 feet) upland habitats (USDA Forest 

Service 2008c). Beach characteristics affect the availability of food and cover, and adjacent upland 

vegetation is important in providing cover for otters. Old-growth forests provide canopy cover, largediameter trees and snags, and burrow and den sites (Melquist and Hornocker 1983). River otters rest in 

cavities or beneath the roots of large conifers or snags in POG forests with open understories (SD5N, 

SD5S, SD67 categories; Larsen 1984; Ben-David et al. 1996; Bowyer et al. 2003). Suitable river otter 

habitat is located in the creek drainages and along the shoreline in the analysis area. ADF&G currently 

allows unlimited trapping of this species in GMU 3. Protection under the Forest Plan is provided through 

Furbearers, Beach, Estuary, and Riparian standards and guidelines (USDA Forest Service 2008a). 

However, modifications to shoreline and riparian habitats can occur in association with roads and utility 

corridors if these habitats are crossed. There are 50,328 acres of beach fringe and 64,136 acres of riparian 

buffers within the analysis area; there is no estuary fringe (Table WILD-10).

Red Squirrel

The red squirrel was selected as an MIS because it is an important prey species for marten and because it 

requires forests with cone-producing trees and cavities in trees and snags for nesting and denning. Red 

squirrels are also a small game species.

Red squirrels use POG forests for nesting and denning, but may also use young growth stands because 

cone production typically begins 40 years after timber harvest (USDA Forest Service 2008c). Forest Plan 

Reserve Tree/Cavity-Nesting Habitat standards and guidelines maintain habitat for this species (USDA 

Forest Service 2008a). There are 282,962 acres of POG within the analysis area (Table WILD-3). 
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Table WILD-10. Existing Acres of Beach Fringe and Riparian Buffers in the Analysis Area

WAA Beach Fringe (acres)1/ Riparian Buffers (acres)1/

4230 311 1,513

4240 2,031 4,883

4250 3,490 3,974

4260 0 4,448

4271 0 750

4290 0 6,053

4370 1,385 2,156

4380 1,313 2,992

4410 0 280

4420 2,345 840

4440 110 2,470

4450 512 2,345

4460 1,251 379

4470 5,906 4,729

Total 18,656 37,810

Note:

1/ Approximately 980 acres are classified as both beach fringe and riparian buffer. There are no acres within estuary fringe 

within the analysis area.

Vancouver Canada Goose

The Vancouver Canada goose was selected as an MIS because of its association with wetlands (both 

forested and non-forested) in the estuary, riparian, and upland areas of the Forest (USDA Forest Service 

2008c). The Vancouver Canada goose is a primarily non-migratory waterfowl species that occurs yearround throughout Southeast Alaska (Hupp et al. 2010). However, geese do move locally between nesting, 

brood rearing, molting, and wintering grounds. This species nests in forested habitats associated with 

beach fringe, estuary fringe, and riparian corridors. Hupp et al. (2010) documented nests in forests 

adjacent to muskegs. Forest Plan Waterfowl and Shorebird, Wetland, and Riparian standards and 

guidelines maintain Vancouver Canada goose habitat (USDA Forest Service 2008a). However, 

modifications to shoreline and riparian habitats can occur in association with roads and utility corridors if 

these habitats are crossed. 

Bald Eagle

The bald eagle was selected as an MIS because of its use of coastal areas for foraging and nesting. Bald eagles 

typically nest in large trees in spruce-hemlock forest, and over 90 percent of the nests are within 500 feet of a 

saltwater beach. Southeast Alaska, the bald eagle population increased until the 1980s, but since then has 

remained stable, with an adult population of approximately 13,000-26,000 birds (Hodges 2011).

Bald eagles are especially sensitive to disturbance early in the breeding season. They are also susceptible 

to water quality impacts that adversely impact their prey populations (e.g., herring, flounder, pollock, and 

salmon). The availability of nesting habitat is not seen as a significant limiting factor, in part due to the 

full protection of the 1,000-foot shoreline beach buffer on the Tongass (Hodges 2011). Further protection 

to bald eagles is afforded by Forest-wide standards and guidelines that require the maintenance of 

estuarine and riparian buffers (USDA Forest Service 2008a).

Bald eagles are managed by the USFWS under the National Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and 

through the Bald Eagle Take Permit Program (USFWS 2009). Bald eagle nesting activity within the 

analysis area has been documented along the shores of Frederick Sound, Duncan Canal, and Keku Strait. 
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There are two nests within 600 feet of the northwest end of the transmission line corridor (all alternatives) 

along Keku Straight. There are an additional 18 nests within 600 feet of the Northern Route corridor 

(Alternatives 2 and 3).

Hairy Woodpecker, Red-breasted Sapsucker, Brown Creeper

The red-breasted sapsucker, hairy woodpecker, and brown creeper were selected as MIS to represent oldgrowth-associated and snag-dependent species. Hairy woodpeckers and red-breasted sapsuckers are 

primary cavity excavators that require snags and dying trees for foraging and nesting. The brown creeper 

requires large diameter old-growth trees. All three species are associated with interior forest conditions 

(Kissling and Garton 2008). Therefore, these species may be affected by activities that remove large trees 

or result in habitat fragmentation. Existing acres of each POG category within the analysis area are 

provided in Table WILD-1. Habitat for these species is maintained by Forest Plan Reserve Tree/CavityNesting Habitat standards and guidelines.

Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Species

Threatened, endangered, and candidate species potentially occurring in the analysis area were identified 

through consultation with the USFWS and NMFS. Table WILD-11 identifies those carried forward in the 

analysis based on known occurrences or the presence of suitable habitat in the analysis area. These 

species are addressed in detail in the draft wildlife Biological Assessment/Biological Evaluation (BA/BE) 

prepared for the proposed project, which is included in the project record (Tetra Tech 2014c). For the 

remaining species, the analysis area is outside of their known range or suitable habitat is not present in the 

analysis area. Therefore, the proposed project will have no effect on these species and they are not 

addressed further.

Table WILD-11. Threatened, Endangered, Candidate, and Alaska Region Sensitive Species in 

the Analysis Area

Common Name Scientific Name Status Jurisdiction

Humpback whale Megaptera novaeangliae Endangered NMFS

Steller sea lion (Eastern 

DPS)1/

Eumetopias jubatus R10 Sensitive Species Forest Service

Chinook salmon Onchorhynchus tshawytshca Threatened or Endangered; 

depending on the run

NMFS

Snake River sockeye salmon Onchorhynchus nerka Threatened or Endangered; 

depending on the run

NMFS

Steelhead Onchorhynchus mykiss Threatened or Endangered; 

depending on the run

NMFS

Lower Columbia River coho 

salmon

Onchorhynchus kisutch Threatened or Endangered; 

depending on the run

NMFS

Hood Canal Chum Salmon Onchorhynchus keta Threatened or Endangered; 

depending on the run

NMFS

Green Sturgeon (Southern 

DPS)

Acipenser medirostris Threatened NMFS

Pinto Abalone 2/ Haliotis kamtschatkana Candidate USFWS

Yellow-billed loon2/ Gavia adamsii Candidate Species USFWS

Black Oystercatcher Haematopus bachmani R10 Sensitive Species Forest Service

Queen Charlotte goshawk Accipiter gentilis laingi R10 Sensitive Species Forest Service

Note:

1/ Steller sea lion (Eastern DPS) was delisted (see CFR Vol. 78, No. 213 dated November 4, 2013). The final rule recently took 

effect on December 4, 2013; therefore, this species is Forest Service Alaska Region Sensitive Species.

2/ Species identified as Candidate by the USFWS and/or NMFS will automatically be designated as R10 sensitive species.
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Forest Service Alaska Region Sensitive Species potentially occurring in the analysis area were obtained 

from the most recent Regional Forester’s list (USDA Forest Service 2009d). The Queen Charlotte 

goshawk and the black oystercatcher have the potential to occur in the analysis area (Table WILD-1). A 

detailed discussion of the Queen Charlotte goshawk is provided below because this species is associated 

with the old-growth forest ecosystem. The black oystercatcher, associated with rocky shorelines along 

the coast (areas protected by the 1,000-foot beach buffer), yellow-billed loon, which may occur in the 

nearshore waters and inlets adjacent to the analysis area. Pacific abalone and green sturgeon are

discussed in Appendix A of the BA/BE (Tetra Tech 2014c).

Queen Charlotte Goshawk

The Queen Charlotte goshawk is of special concern to the State of Alaska (Cotter 2007) and has been 

included by Stenhouse and Senner (2005) on Audubon’s Alaska WatchList. The Queen Charlotte 

goshawk is recognized as a distinct subspecies of the northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) that occurs 

only in coastal areas of British Columbia and in Southeast Alaska. In 2007, in response to a courtordered remand on a petition to list the species, the USFWS updated a 1997 status review for the Queen 

Charlotte goshawk, and concluded that Alaska supports a DPS of this species though listing of this DPS 

was not warranted (USFWS 2007). 

The goshawk is a year-round resident in Southeast Alaska and may occupy different or overlapping 

breeding and winter territories. Goshawk breeding territories can be described hierarchically in terms of 

the nest site, the nest area, post-fledging area (PFA), and foraging area (see Reynolds et al. 1992 and the 

Project BA/BE for detailed descriptions). Goshawks in Southeast Alaska typically nest in large, 

contiguous patches of tall, mature, and old trees with dense canopies. When mature and old-growth 

habitats are not available they will nest in maturing young-growth with sufficient structure (Reynolds et 

al. 2006; Boyce et al. 2006). Goshawk foraging areas typically consist of mature and old-growth forest 

stands, though they will also forage in young forest as well as along edges and in openings as long as 

suitable perches from which to observe and attack prey are present (Iverson et al. 1996, Bosakowski et al. 

1999; McClaren 2004; Boyce et al. 2006; Reynolds et al. 2006).

Goshawks consume a wide variety of prey species and are capable of alternating between prey species, 

depending on prey occurrence and availability. In prey rich areas such as Kupreanof and Mitkof islands, 

blue grouse and red squirrels are the dominant species taken (Lewis et al. 2006). 

Within the analysis area (VCUs crossed), there are currently approximately 141,673 acres of POG, of 

which 48,506 acres are high-volume POG that provide potential goshawk habitat (Table WILD-1). There 

are six known goshawk nest territories (some including multiple alternative nest sites) within the analysis 

area VCUs (USDA Forest Service 2010b) including:

• The Scott Peak territory (VCU 4440; activity documented in 2003)

• The Duncan Creek territory (VCU 4390; activity documented at alternative nest sites in 1994, 

1999, 2000, and 2001)

• The Mitchell Creek territory (VCU 4370; activity documented in 1994 and 1995)

• The Mountain Point territory (VCU 4470; activity documented in 1994)

• The Big John Creek territory (VCU 4290; activity documented at alternative nest sites in 1992 

and 1993)

• The Irish Lake territory (VCU 4290; activity documented in 1996)

Two new nests were discovered during Project surveys, including one south of Petersburg in VCU 4470

and one just west of Duncan Canal along the Center-South Route in VCU 4380. The Northern route

corridor (Alternatives 2 and 3) comes within 600 feet of the nest associated with the Scott Peak territory 
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and one of the newly documented nests. The Center-South route corridor (Alternative 4) comes within 

600 feet of a nest associated with the Mitchell Creek territory and one of the newly documented nests.

Migratory Birds

Executive Order 13186 provides for the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats and requires 

the evaluation of the effects of Federal actions on migratory birds, with an emphasis on species of 

concern. Agencies are required to support the conservation and intent of the migratory bird conventions 

by integrating bird conservation principles, measures, and practices into agency activities and by avoiding 

or minimizing, to the extent practicable, adverse impacts on migratory bird resources when conducting 

agency actions.

The Tongass National Forest has identified 40 bird species of management concern that may occur on the 

Forest. This list was derived from Boreal Partners in Flight (1999) and USFWS (2002) species of 

concern lists. The hemlock/Sitka spruce/cedar forest habitat type, the most common type in the analysis 

area, is the primary habitat type used by 14 of these species, and the secondary habitat type used by 8 

species. Any of these species could occur in the vicinity of the analysis area during various times of the 

year. See the Wildlife and Subsistence resource report for a list of species (Tetra Tech 2014f). The main 

management issue for migratory birds on the Tongass is the removal of POG forests, which can remove 

perching, foraging, and nesting habitat and result in habitat fragmentation, potentially reducing the 

suitability of remaining forest for species associated with interior forest conditions (Kissling 2003; Sperry 

2006).

Endemics

The Federal ESA defines endemic as “a species native and confined to a certain region; having 

comparatively restricted distribution.” Forest Plan standards and guidelines for endemic mammals direct 

the Forest to “maintain habitat to support viable populations and improve knowledge of habitat 

relationships of rare or endemic terrestrial mammals that may represent unique populations with restricted 

ranges.” Likewise, the NFMA directs that management prescriptions “shall preserve and enhance the 

diversity of plant and animal communities, including endemic(s).”

Due to its archipelago geography and highly dynamic glacial history, Southeast Alaska has been found to 

be a region with an especially high degree of endemism (Demboski et al. 1998). Approximately 20 

percent of the small mammal taxa (species and subspecies) known to occur in Southeast Alaska are 

endemic to an island or a group of islands (Dawson et al. 2007). However, there remain many 

uncertainties about the extent of endemism in Southeast Alaska because research to date has primarily 

focused on mammals, thus the level of endemism in other organisms such as plants, birds, amphibians, 

and invertebrates is unknown. Kupreanof and Mitkof Islands are not considered hotspots of endemism 

(Cook et al. 2006). However, the following endemic wildlife species are known to occur on Kupreanof 

and Mitkof Islands (ISLES 2013):

• Alexander Archipelago wolf: endemic to Southeast Alaska (Weckworth et al. 2005; discussed 

above).

• Alexander Archipelago black bear: endemic to coastal British Columbia and Southeast Alaska, 

except Admiralty, Baranof, and Chichagof islands (Stone and Cook 2000; discussed above)

• Insular dusky shrew (Sorex monticolus elassodon): restricted to the Alexander Archipelago and 

Haida Gwaii; occurs in forest, shrub, and meadow habitat but requires microhabitats with dense 

ground cover which may aid in predator avoidance (Nagorsen 1996). They are closely associated 

with riparian zones (Smith and Belk 1996)
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The EIS discussion focuses on the insular dusky shrew, as this is the only endemic species that is not 

addressed in its own subsection. Vegetation removal, particularly in riparian zones, could reduce the 

amount of, and fragment, shrew habitat.

Subsistence

Subsistence refers to the natural resources used by rural Alaskans. Under Section 803 of ANILCA, 

subsistence is defined as: “the customary and traditional uses by Alaska residents of wild renewable 

resources for direct, personal, or family consumption as food, shelter, fuel, clothing, tools, or 

transportation; for the making and selling of handicraft articles out of non-edible byproducts of fish and 

wildlife resources taken for personal or family consumption; for barter, or sharing for personal or family 

consumption; and for customary trade.”

ANILCA provides for “the continuation of the opportunity for subsistence users by rural residents of 

Alaska, including both Natives and non-Natives, on the public lands.” It also states that “customary and 

traditional” subsistence uses of renewable resources “shall be the priority consumptive use of all such 

resources on the public lands of Alaska.”

The Forest Plan FEIS includes maps of “community use areas” for each of the 32 communities in 

Southeast Alaska. These maps indicate the approximate extent of the areas that are commonly used by 

many of the residents of each community in their day-to-day work, recreational, and subsistence 

activities. The analysis area coincides with the Petersburg/Kupreanof community use area, which 

includes the towns of Petersburg and Kupreanof, and the Kake community use area, which includes the 

town of Kake (USDA Forest Service 2008c). More than 90 percent of households within these 

community areas harvest some subsistence resource (USDA Forest Service 1997b).

Subsistence resources in vicinity of the KPI Project include deer, moose, marine mammals, salmon, other 

finfish, marine invertebrates (e.g., crabs, clams, and shrimp), waterfowl, berries, seaweed, other plants, 

wood (Firman and Bosworth 1990). The most important subsistence resources based on edible pounds 

harvested include land mammals, salmon and shellfish for Petersburg/Kupreanof households, and deer, 

salmon, and other finfish for Kake households (USDA Forest Service 1997b). The primary subsistence 

use areas within the analysis area include Duncan Canal, Mitkof Island, and west Kupreanof Island 

(USDA Forest Service 2008c). Petersburg/Kupreanof residents harvest deer within WAAs 2007, 5133, 

and 5138; Kake residents primarily harvest deer from the southern end of Admiralty Island in GMU 4, 

though hunt to some extent in the analysis area in WAAs 5131 and 5132 (USDA Forest Service 2008c).

ANILCA requires that the analysis of potential effects on subsistence uses focus on three factors: 1) 

subsistence resource distribution and abundance, 2) access to subsistence resources, and 3) competition 

for the use of subsistence resources. These factors are addressed below in the context of the KPI Project.

Distribution and Abundance

Deer and moose occur throughout the analysis area year round. Marine mammals, such as seals, occur in 

the nearshore marine waters adjacent to the analysis area. Streams and lakes within the analysis area and 

adjacent marine waters provide habitat and contribute to the production of fish that support the local 

subsistence, sport, and commercial fisheries of the area. Waterfowl occur in the analysis area during 

spring and fall migration and primarily on lakes and in bays and estuaries. Subsistence plants, which 

include firewood, seaweed, and berries, occur in previous harvested areas (berries) and near beach and 

estuarine areas.

Access

The primary modes of access for harvesting wildlife and other subsistence resources include boats, foot 

travel, motorized vehicles, and all-terrain vehicles. The analysis area is accessed primarily from saltwater 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-126 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

by boat or floatplane. Petersburg and Kake are served by the Alaska Marine Highway and Petersburg has 

daily jet service. Four NFS road systems are located within the analysis area: the Mitkof road system on 

Mitkof Island, and the Tonka, Portage, and Kake road systems on Kupreanof Island (see Figure TRAN-1 

in the Transportation section). Most of these NFS roads were constructed as part of previous timber sale 

contracts for the purpose of timber haul and administration. None of the communities within the analysis 

area are connected by the existing road systems. Changes in access can affect the level of effort required, 

time involved, and the effectiveness of the hunt, as well as potentially increase competition for 

subsistence resources (if associated with increased hunter success; USDA Forest Service 2009a). 

Competition

Competition for subsistence resources may occur when resources are abundant and access is available to 

local and non-local users. Competition can also occur between different subsistence user groups and 

between subsistence hunters and sport hunters. The analysis area is accessible by other communities 

(e.g., Sitka and Juneau) from the sea and air. 

Environmental Effects

Habitat

Clearing the right-of-way of vegetation for the construction and operation of the proposed project would 

result in the removal of existing forested wildlife habitat. Following project construction, non-forested 

vegetation would be allowed to grow to a height at which it would not interfere with the transmission line. 

Thus habitat for wildlife species that use shrub, muskeg, or other low-growing habitats would be 

maintained over time. Existing snags would be maintained where they do not pose a hazard to personnel 

or to the transmission line structures. 

Old-growth Forest Ecosystem and Landscape Connectivity/Fragmentation

Effects Common to All Alternatives

A functional and interconnected old-growth ecosystem is essential to maintaining various components of 

biodiversity, including structural complexity (within-stand and landscape level), connectivity (unfragmented, 

contiguous blocks of old growth), stand age and species composition, and various ecological processes (e.g., 

tree establishment, disturbance, and nitrogen fixation [USDA Forest Service 2008c]). Through the 

permanent (through the life of the project) removal of POG, all of the action alternatives would reduce 

biodiversity by shifting the age-structure of the forest within the proposed right-of-way (i.e., removed trees 

are replaced by younger generation cohorts; Franklin et al. 1997); changing the composition of understory 

vegetation (Deal and Tappeiner 2002); and removing key habitat features, such as large decadent trees, snags, 

and downed logs. These changes may reduce the range of habitats that support diverse plants and animal 

communities and alter the ecological processes supported by the old-growth ecosystem. The amount of POG 

and its distribution across the landscape provide a measure of the effects of the project on the old-growth 

forest ecosystem. All action alternatives would maintain at least 97 percent of the existing POG (regardless 

of category) in all of the analysis area VCUs and would affect less than 1 percent of the total, high-volume, or 

large-tree POG within the analysis area as a whole (Table WILD-12).

Indirectly, project-related vegetation clearing would fragment and potentially reduce the quality of 

remaining habitats. Fragmentation may remove linkages between habitat patches, making it harder for 

some wildlife to move across the landscape. Remaining habitat patches would become smaller and less 

suitable for species associated with interior forest conditions. A continuously distributed population could 

become a series of small, subpopulations that rely on the ability of dispersing individuals of genetic 

interchange and recolonization in the event of local extirpation. The degree to which this would occur 

would depend on species-specific dispersal capabilities, the distance between habitat patches, and 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-127

conditions between habitat patches (Wilcove et al. 1986). It can be assumed that the alternatives that 

remove the most POG would have the greatest adverse effects to the old-growth forest ecosystem. 

Low elevation passes, beach fringe, and riparian areas provide natural movement corridors for wildlife 

within the analysis area VCUs. They are also important components of the conservation strategy that 

pvoide connectivity between old-growth reserves and other non-development LUDs. All vegetation 

clearing for the action alternatives would occur below 1,500 feet and would include clearing within the 

beach fringe and riparian corridors. This could potentially reduce low elevation travel corridors, as well 

as connectivity between interior forest and saltwater. Where possible, the transmission line would span 

streams, limiting the amount of riparian vegetation removal. Alternatives that remove the most POG 

within beach fringe, riparian buffers, and other corridors are assumed to have the greatest effects to 

landscape connectivity.

Table WILD-12. Impacts to Total, High-Volume, and Large-Tree POG by VCU

VCU

Acres Impacted and Percent Existing POG Remaining1/

Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt 3 Alt 4

Acres % Acres % Acres % Acres %

TOTAL POG

4230 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4240 0 100 16 100 16 100 0 100

4250 0 100 17 100 17 100 27 100

4260 0 100 5 100 5 100 2 100

4271 0 100 0 100 0 100 29 99

4290 0 100 0 100 0 100 10 100

4370 0 100 0 100 0 100 48 100

4380 0 100 0 100 0 100 164 98

4410 0 100 12 99 12 99 0 100

4420 0 100 9 100 9 100 0 100

4440 0 100 52 100 52 100 0 100

4450 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4460 0 100 104 98 104 98 0 100

4470 0 100 112 100 108 100 17 100

Total 0 100 327 100 324 100 296 100

HIGH-VOLUME POG

4230 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4240 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4250 0 100 1 100 1 100 2 100

4260 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4271 0 100 0 100 0 100 3 100

4290 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4370 0 100 0 100 0 100 10 100

4380 0 100 0 100 0 100 32 99

4410 0 100 11 97 11 97 0 100

4420 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4440 0 100 18 100 18 100 0 100

4450 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4460 0 100 41 98 41 98 0 100

4470 0 100 27 100 26 100 3 100

Total 0 100 99 100 97 100 51 100
3 Environment and Effects 

3-128 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Table WILD-12. Impacts to Total, High-Volume, and Large-Tree POG by VCU (continued)

VCU

Acres Impacted and Percent Existing POG Remaining1/

Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt 3 Alt 4

Acres % Acres % Acres % Acres %

LARGE-TREE POG

4230 -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --

4240 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4250 0 100 0 100 0 100 1 100

4260 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4271 0 100 0 100 0 100 1 100

4290 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4370 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4380 0 100 0 100 0 100 1 100

4410 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4420 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4440 0 100 4 99 4 99 0 100

4450 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

4460 0 100 8 99 8 99 0 100

4470 0 100 0 100 0 100 0 100

Total 0 100 12 100 12 100 3 100

Note:

1/ Total POG = SD 4H, 4S, 4N, 5S, 5N, 67 classes; high-volume POG = SD5S, 5N classes, 67; large-tree POG = SD67 class.

Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

Past timber harvest has reduced the amount of POG in the analysis area VCUs and resulted in reduction 

of POG and fragmentation of the old-growth forest ecosystem. Ongoing and foreseeable projects that 

have similar effects include timber harvest on NFS lands, including micro-sales and Free Use, and on 

state lands, as well as road construction/maintenance projects. Young-growth management and other 

habitat restoration activities would have beneficial effects to the old-growth forest ecosystem by reducing 

the stem exclusion phase of stand development and promoting stand development. All action alternatives 

would contribute to the cumulative loss of POG forest and fragmentation within the analysis area VCUs. 

However, because less than one percent of the existing POG forest would be impacted under any action 

alternative, incremental additions to cumulative impacts would be minor under all alternatives.

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 is the no action alternative and is analyzed to provide a baseline for evaluation of the 

impacts associated with the action alternatives. Under this alternative, the Forest Service would not 

provide authorization for the proposed project and there would be no direct or indirect effects on the oldgrowth forest ecosystem because there would be no transmission line construction or associated activities. 

The existing amount of total POG, high-volume POG, and large-tree POG would be maintained in the 

analysis area VCUs under Alternative 1 (Table WILD-1). The amount of POG within the beach fringe 

and riparian buffers would also be maintained (Table WILD-13). Under Alternative 1, the level of 

fragmentation would remain unchanged, except for naturally occurring events (e.g., windthrow).

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would make no contribution to cumulative effects as no action would be undertaken. 

Viable, well-distributed populations would be expected to continue across the Kupreanof/Mitkof 

biogeographic province.
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-129

Alternative 2 – Proposed Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 2 would affect a total of 327 acres of POG, including 99 acres of high-volume POG and 12 

acres of large-tree POG (Table WILD-12). This includes 182 acres of POG within the beach fringe and 

riparian buffers (Table WILD-13). The total acreage of POG forest, acres of high-volume POG, and acres 

of large-tree POG affected under Alternative 2 would be comparable to Alternative 3, and the greatest 

among the action alternatives (Table WILD-12). 

Table WILD-13. Acres of POG Affected within Beach Fringe and Riparian Buffers1/

VCU

Acres Impacted

Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt3 Alt 4

4230 0 0 0 0

4240 0 3 3 0

4250 0 5 5 6

4260 0 3 3 0

4271 0 0 0 4

4290 0 0 0 1

4370 0 0 0 19

4380 0 0 0 88

4410 0 0 0 0

4420 0 0 0 0

4440 0 20 20 0

4450 0 0 0 0

4460 0 84 84 0

4470 0 66 62 11

Total 0 182 178 130

Note:

1/ Note there are no areas of estuary fringe within the analysis area.

Alternative 2 would reduce the amount of POG forest adjacent to the shoreline of Frederick Sound; 

however, north-south connectivity would be maintained through a narrower corridor. Alternative 2 would 

also cross one of the remaining POG corridors across the northern end of the Lindenberg Peninsula, 

connecting Frederick Sound and Portage Bay, reducing the east-west connection between these areas. 

Additionally, Alternative 2 would cross the pinch point between the Lindenberg peninsula and the rest of 

Kupreanof Island. However, the proposed alternative would follow an existing road in this area, resulting 

in moderate effects to connectivity.

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 2 would contribute to the cumulative loss of POG forest and fragmentation in the analysis

area VCUs, comparable to Alternative 3 but to a lesser extent than Alternative 4. Alternative 2 would also 

contribute to the reduction in connectivity across the analysis area created by past timber harvest and road 

development. Given the amount of remaining POG forest and corridors, Alternative 2 in combination 

with past, ongoing, and foreseeable projects would be expected to maintain viable, well-distributed 

populations across the Kupreanof/Mitkof biogeographic province.

Alternative 3 – Northern Route with Submarine Cable

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 3 would affect 324 acres of POG forest, including 97 acres of high-volume POG and 12 acres 

of large-tree POG (Table WILD-12). This includes 178 acres of POG within the beach fringe and 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-130 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

riparian buffers (Table WILD-13). The total acreage of POG forest, acres of high-volume POG, and 

acres of large-tree POG affected under Alternative 3 would be comparable to Alternative 2, and the 

second most among the action alternatives. Effects to corridors and landscape connectivity would be the 

same as described under Alternative 2.

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 3 would contribute to the cumulative loss of POG forest and fragmentation in the analysis

area VCUs, comparable to Alternative 2, but to a slightly lesser extent. Contributions to reductions in 

connectivity would be the same as described under Alternative 2. Given the amount of remaining POG 

forest and corridors, Alternative 3 in combination with past, ongoing, and foreseeable projects would be 

expected to maintain viable, well-distributed populations across the Kupreanof/Mitkof biogeographic 

province.

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 4 would affect 296 acres of POG forest, including 51 acres of high-volume POG and 3 acres 

of large-tree POG (Table WILD-12). This includes 130 acres of POG within the beach fringe and 

riparian buffers (Table WILD-13). The total acreage of POG forest affected under Alternative 4 would be 

the least among the action alternatives. 

Alternative 4 would result in the least habitat fragmentation among the other action alternatives due to the 

lower amount of POG forest removed. Alternative 4 would cross one of the remaining POG corridors 

across the southern end of the Lindenberg Peninsula, and a corridor across Kupreanof Island connecting 

Duncan Canal with Hamilton and Big John Bays. East-west connectivity would be maintained in these 

areas but through narrower corridors.

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 4 would contribute to the cumulative loss of POG forest and fragmentation in the analysis

area VCUs. Alternative 4 would also contribute to the reduction in connectivity across the analysis area 

created by past timber harvest and road development. Given the amount of remaining POG forest and 

corridors across Kupreanof Island, Alternative 4 in combination with past, ongoing, and foreseeable 

projects would be expected to maintain viable, well-distributed populations across the Kupreanof/Mitkof 

biogeographic province.

Old-growth Reserves

Evaluation and modification of small OGRs during project-level environmental analysis are addressed 

under Old-growth LUD Standard and Guideline WILD1(B). Situations in which modifications of OGRs 

may require completion of a project-level review are described in Appendix K of the Forest Plan (USDA 

Forest Service, 2008b, p. K-1). These include if:

• Actions are proposed within the OGR that will reduce the integrity of the old-growth habitat in 

the OGR, and 

• The OGR will be affected by a land conveyance, power line, mine or other project that was not 

considered in the Forest Plan.

The KPI Project was officially considered in the Forest Plan. The two route corridors evaluated here are 

identified as Potential Power Transmission Corridors, which were taken into account in the Forest Plan 

Final EIS analyses (USDA Forest Service 2008c). Therefore, the analysis of old-growth reserves here 

focuses on actions proposed within individual small OGRs. Note that none of the proposed KPI Project 

alternatives would cross or otherwise impact medium or large OGRs. 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-131

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 would have no effect on the OGR system and, therefore, no change in the ability of existing 

small OGRs to meet Forest Plan minimum acreage requirements (Forest Plan Appendices D and K; Table 

WILD-14).

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would not change the cumulative effects to the old-growth reserve system as analyzed by 

the Forest Plan Final EIS because no actions within small OGRs are proposed under this alternative. The 

effects of individual ongoing or reasonably foreseeable development projects that might involve small 

OGR modifications are expected to be within the limits allowed by the Forest Plan, and would be 

analyzed as they are proposed.

Alternatives 2 and 3

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternatives 2 and 3 would cross small OGRs in VCUs 4440 and 4460. This would result in the 

conversion of 42 acres of OGR in VCU 4440 and 25 acres of OGR in VCU 4460 to the Transportation 

and Utility System (TUS) LUD (Table WILD-14). Under both alternatives this would also result in a 

minor reduction in the amount of POG forest within the small OGRs (13 acres in VCU 4440 and 6 acres 

in VCU 4460; Table WILD-14). However, both small OGRs would continue to meet minimum Forest 

Plan acreage requirements under alternatives 2 and 3 (Table WILD-14). No new roads would be 

constructed in these small OGRs. Therefore, neither alternative would reduce the integrity of the oldgrowth forest ecosystem within the small OGRs in VCUs 4440 and 4460.

Cumulative Effects

Alternatives 2 and 3 would make no contribution to the amount of roads and a negligible contribution to 

the amount of early seral habitat currently within the small OGRs in VCUs 4440 and 4460. Conversion 

of acreage within the proposed right-of-way from OGR to the TUS LUD would reduce the overall amount 

of small OGR and POG acres included in the reserve system, but both small OGRs would continue to 

meet Forest Plan minimum acreage requirements. The effects of individual ongoing or foreseeable 

development projects that might involve small OGR modifications are expected to be within the limits 

allowed by the Forest Plan, and would be analyzed as they are proposed.

Alternatives 4 – Center-South Route

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 4 would cross small OGRs in VCUs 4250, 4260, and 4380. This would eventually result in 

the conversion of 14 acres of OGR in VCU 4250, 752 acres of OGR in VCU 4260, and 23 acres in VCU 

4380 to TUS LUD (Table WILD-14). This would also result in a reduction in the amount of POG forest 

within the small OGRs (7 acres in VCU 4250, 375 acres in VCU 4260, and 31 acres in VCU 4380; Table 

WILD-14). The existing small OGRs in VCU 4250 and 4380 currently do not meet Forest Plan minimum 

acreage requirements and would continue to do so under Alternative 4 (Table WILD-14). The small 

OGR in VCU 4260 currently meets minimum acreage requirements and would continue to do so under 

Alternative 4 (Table WILD-14). Therefore, Alternative 4 would not appreciably reduce the integrity of 

the old-growth forest ecosystem within the small OGRs in VCUs 4250, 4260, or 4380. 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-132 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Table WILD-14. Old-Growth Reserves Consistency with Forest Plan Appendix K Criteria

VCU 4250 VCU 4260 VCU 4380 VCU 4440 VCU 4460

Alt 1

(existing), 

2, 3 Alt 4

Alt 1

(existing), 

2, 3 Alt 4 Alt 1 (existing), 2, 3 Alt 4

Alt 1

(existing) 

and 4

Alt 2 

and 3

Alt 1

(existing) 

and 4

Alt 2 

and 3

Forest Plan Appendix K Criteria

Required OGR 

(acres)1/

6,540 6,794 4,422 3,858 1,786

Required POG 

(acres)2/

3,270 3,397 2,211 1,929 893

OGR acres 5,462 5448 6,829 6,827 4,360 4,317 3905 3863 1,883 1,859

POG acres 2,691 2,685 3,425 3,424 2,205 2,174 2495 2482 1,080 1,074

Acreage 

requirements 

met?3/

No No Yes Yes No, but acceptable 

because adjacent nondevelopment LUD 

provides additional 

total and POG acres

No, but acceptable 

because adjacent 

non-development 

LUD provides 

additional total and 

POG acres

Yes Yes Yes Yes

Notes:

1/ 16% of VCU acres

2/ 50% of OGR acres

3/ Non-development LUD acreage can count toward Forest Plan minimum acreage requirements for small OGRs.
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-133

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 4 would not contribute additional roads and would result in a negligible increase the amount 

of early seral forest in the small OGRs. Conversion of acreage within the right-of-way from OGR to the 

TUS LUD would reduce the overall amount of small OGR and POG acres included in the reserve system. 

Forest Plan minimum acreage requirements would continue to be met in VCU 4260, and VCUs 4250 and 

4380 would continue to fall short on total and POG acreage with minor additional acreage reductions 

under Alternative 4 in these VCUs. The effects of individual ongoing or foreseeable development 

projects that might involve small OGR modifications are expected to be within the limits allowed by the 

Forest Plan, and would be analyzed as they are proposed.

Management Indicator Species

Black Bear

Effects Common to All Alternatives

Preferred habitats for black bears, which include coastal, estuarine, and riparian areas, are protected by 

the Forest Plan conservation strategy. Therefore, none of the alternatives are expected to substantially 

affect black bear habitat. However, all of the action alternatives would remove POG forest, which would 

reduce the amount of available black bear denning habitat (e.g., large woody structures such as hollow 

logs and hollow living trees; Davies et al. 2012; Table WILD-15). Removal of POG would increase 

forage availability for black bears in the resulting early-successional plant communities within the rightof-way which would be maintained over the life of the project. Additionally, under all action alternatives 

the right-of-way would cross (span) Class I salmon streams which could reduce the quality of black bear 

foraging habitat, particularly if riparian habitat would need to be removed. The following analysis 

assumes that alternatives that remove the greatest amounts of POG forest and have the most Class I 

stream crossings where riparian habitat removal is necessary for conductor line clearance would result in 

the greatest impacts to black bear habitat. 

Table WILD-15. Acres of POG Removed by Alternative

WAA Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt3 Alt 4

2007 0 45 43 10

5130 0 0 0 28

5131 0 5 5 74

5132 0 110 110 134

5133 0 0 0 179

5135 0 16 16 0

5136 0 199 199 0

5137 0 12 12 0

5138 0 77 76 116

Total 0 464 461 541

Construction of the transmission line has the potential to adversely affect black bears through activities 

that create noise or disturbance. However, these effects would be temporary and localized, lasting only 

during construction and sporadically during operation. 

Road associated with the KPI Project may also indirectly increase the susceptibility of black bears to 

harvest if road access is increased or improved. Although there is no road density threshold for black 

bears, it can be assumed that an increase in roads, particularly in open habitats such as clearcuts, muskegs, 

and alpine areas, where bears forage and are easier to see, increases the potential for human-bear 

interactions. None of the alternatives propose new road construction. However, temporary shovel trails 

and temporary access spurs proposed under all action alternatives could still be used by hunters on foot. 
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3-134 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

No new roads would be developed under the proposed alternatives and motorized access to temporary 

shovel trails and temporary access spurs used during construction would be prohibited, with nonmotorized access discouraged. As a result, increase in the harvest of bears due to human access along 

temporary shovel trails and access spurs would be minor if it were to occur. 

Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

Reductions in POG and new Class I stream crossings would contribute to similar effects of ongoing and 

foreseeable timber harvest on NFS, state, and private lands. Timber harvest projects would result in a 

short-term (about 25 years) increase in the forage availability for bears (Porter 2008). However, over the 

long-term (25-150 years), as the forest canopy fills, forage species would be reduced. This could result in 

localized declines in the black bear population. Young-growth stands also lack large hollow trees and 

root masses important for denning. The Mitkof, Tonka, and Central Kupreanof restoration projects would 

improve habitat conditions for black bears over the short-term by increasing the period during which 

forage is available and over the long-term promote the development of larger trees which could provide 

suitable den sites.

Road building associated with past timber harvest in the analysis area WAAs has a limited number of 

roads used by hunters in the vicinity of Kake, Petersburg, and Kupreanof. No new roads would be 

developed under the proposed alternatives and motorized access to temporary shovel trails and temporary 

access spurs used during construction would be prohibited, with non-motorized access discouraged. As a 

result, increase in the harvest of bears due to human access along temporary access spurs would be minor 

if it were to occur. Other timber harvest projects on NFS and state lands that involve road construction 

have the potential to result in road-related effects to black bears. Hunter access would also increase if the 

Kake Access Project were to result in a new road being built between Kake and Petersburg. FHWA and 

ADOT&PF are presently conducting a transportation planning study for the Kake Access Project, with a 

Draft EIS expected to be available in 2016. In the foreseeable future, additional road storage and 

decommissioning would occur with implementation of the Petersburg Ranger District ATM, as funding 

allows. 

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Under Alternative 1, the proposed transmission line and associated facilities would not be constructed; 

therefore, this alternative would have no direct or indirect effects to black bears. 

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would not remove POG or result in Class I stream crossings or the construction of

additional roads, and therefore would not contribute to cumulative effects to black bears. 

Alternatives 2, 3, and 4

Direct and Indirect Effects

Estimated POG removal would range from 461 acres under Alternative 3 to 541 acres under Alternative 

4. Alternative 2 would result in the removal of approximately 464 acres of POG (Table WILD-15). 

Although all three alternatives would involve construction of temporary shovel trails and access spurs, 

none would result in Class I stream crossings by shovel trail or temporary access spur (Table 2-1). 

However, right-of-way corridor clearing under all three alternatives would span Class I salmon streams 

which could reduce the quality of black bear foraging habitat, particularly if riparian habitat would need 

to be removed. The number of Class I streams spanned under Alternatives 2, 3, and 4 are 37, 35, and 33, 

respectively.

Alternatives 2 and 3 would both involve the construction of an estimated 21.6 miles of temporary shovel 

rails and 7.6 miles of temporary access spurs, as well as the use of approximately 2 miles of temporary 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-135

matting panels. Under Alternative 4, the corresponding totals would be 6.5 miles for shovel trails, 7.3 

miles of temporary matting panels, and 6.2 miles of temporary access spurs. These proposed shovel trails, 

matting panels, and spurs would not be continuous or result in the connection of existing road systems 

(see Figures 2-1 and 2-2 for proposed shovel trail and matting panel locations). Temporary access spurs 

would be temporary work pads extending from existing roads to nearby structure locations (see Chapter 2 

for more information). The development of these shovel trails and temporary access spurs is unlikely to 

result in substantial change to hunter access or measurably increase black bear susceptibility to harvest 

over the long term. 

Cumulative Effects

All three action alternatives would make a minor contribution to the reduction in black bear habitat 

associated with ongoing and foreseeable timber harvest and road development projects. As noted with 

respect to direct and indirect effects, none of the alternatives would contribute substantially to increased 

harvest of black bears due to improved access. 

Sitka Black-tailed Deer

Effects Common to All Alternatives

Over the long term, reductions in habitat capability resulting from the removal of POG forest reduce carrying 

capacity, or the numbers of deer an area is capable of supporting given the available resources. This could 

lead to a decline in the deer population, particularly following severe winters, if the demand for resources 

(e.g., food or habitat) exceeds that which is available. Declines in the deer population may decrease the 

availability of deer to wolves and hunters (Person 2001; Farmer et al. 2006; Brinkman et al. 2009). 

All of the action alternatives would result in minor reductions in deer habitat capability (all alternatives 

would reduce current habitat capability by 2 percent or less in the affected WAAs; Table WILD-16). This 

is due to the linear nature of the project and that the action alternatives result in minor reductions in POG 

forest. Therefore, none of the alternatives are expected to reduce carrying capacity or result in a decline 

in the deer population over the long-term. 

Table WILD-16. Deer Habitat Capability by WAA by Alternative (NFS Lands Only)

WAA

Habitat Capability Units (% change from 2013 values)

2013 (Current) Deer Habitat 

Capability 1/ Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt 3 Alt 4

2007 2,238 -- 2,235 (-<1%) 2,235 (-<1%) 2,235 (-<1%)

5130 2,688 -- 2,688 (+/-0%) 2,688 (+/-0%) 2,688 (+/-0%)

5131 1,856 -- 1,843 (-1%) 1,843 (-1%) 1,843 (-1%)

5132 856 -- 856 (+/-0%) 856 (+/-0%) 855 (-<1%)

5133 2,783 -- 2,783 (+/-0) 2,783 (+/-0%) 2,783 (+/-0%)

5135 1,127 -- 1,127 (+/-0) 1,127 (+/-0%) 1,127 (+/-0%)

5136 1,263 -- 1,246 (-1%) 1,246 (-1%) 1,250 (-1%)

5137 1,265 -- 1,264 (-<1%) 1,264 (-<1%) 1,265 (+/-0%)

5138 1,638 -- 1,599 (-2%) 1,599 (-2%) 1,599(-2%)

Total 15,714 15,641 (-<1%) 15,641 (-<1%) 15,645 (-<1%)

Note:

1/ DHC calculated from the deer model for winter habitat at all elevations. Habitat Suitability Indices (HSIs) were standardized 

to range from 0.0 to 1.0; 100 deer per square mile used as multiplier; no predation was included. 

Source: GIS Database, deer_model.aml, 2013.

Removal of POG under all of action alternatives would decrease the amount of available average snow 

and deep snow winter habitat (Table WILD-17). This could alter the distribution of these habitats on the 
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3-136 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

landscape (Schoen et al. 1984), although they are already patchily distributed in the analysis area. 

Clearing of forested vegetation in the right-of-way would increase foraging habitat over the long-term, 

but could also reduce overall the amount of non-winter habitat (through POG reduction). If deer use of 

the right-of-way increases due to forage production, the linear nature of the cleared right-of-way may 

increase their exposure to predation by wolves (James and Stuart-Smith 2000). However, muskeg, alpine, 

and other non-forested habitats within the right-of-way would be maintained under all alternatives. 

Table WILD-17. Changes to Average Snow Winter Range, Deep Snow Winter Range, and NonWinter Habitat for Deer by WAA by Alternative (NFS and Non-NFS Lands)

WAA

Acres Impacted

Alt. 1 Alt. 2 Alt. 3 Alt. 4

Deep Snow Winter Range1/

2007 0 0 0 0

5130 0 0 0 0

5131 0 0 0 1

5132 0 0 0 1

5133 0 0 0 3

5135 0 0 0 0

5136 0 8 8 0

5137 0 1 1 0

5138 0 6 2 3

Total 0 15 10 7

Average Snow Deer Winter Range2/

2007 0 7 4 2

5130 0 0 0 2

5131 0 1 1 8

5132 0 4 4 7

5133 0 0 0 14

5135 0 3 3 0

5136 0 31 31 0

5137 0 1 1 0

5138 0 10 6 10

Total 0 57 50 43

Non-winter Habitat3/

2007 0 16 8 3

5130 0 0 0 6

5131 0 19 19 11

5132 0 21 21 17

5133 0 0 0 33

5135 0 17 17 0

5136 0 67 67 0

5137 0 3 3 0

5138 0 12 7 17

Total 0 153 141 88

Notes:

Values may not sum correctly due to rounding.

1/ High volume POG (SD 5S, 5N, 6/7) at or below 800-foot elevation

2/ All POG (SD 4H, 4N, 4S, 5H, 5S, 5N, 6/7) at or below 1,500-foot elevation

3/ Spring/summer/fall habitat; all POG, non-productive old-growth, non-forested, muskeg and alpine habitats. Note that muskegs 

and other habitats with low growing vegetation would be maintained within the right-of-way with exception of clearing of a 

centerline road under Alternatives 2, 4, and 6 therefore acreages presented are conservative.
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Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

Cumulative past harvest activities have reduced deer habitat capability within the analysis area. Habitat 

capability will continue to be reduced as natural and harvest-associated windthrow occur and previously 

harvested stands reach the stem-exclusion stage. This could result in further declines in the deer 

population. The proposed action alternatives would make a negligible contribution to these effects. 

Additional timber harvest on NFS lands and state lands would further reduce deer habitat capability; 

small sales and free use have a negligible effect on deer habitat capability because they do not result in 

substantial stand modification. 

Average snow, deep snow, and non-winter habitat have also been reduced by past timber harvest. Further 

reductions by the proposed alternatives would be minor. Restoration projects under the Kake Watershed 

Plan and the Mitkof, Tonka, and Central Kupreanof restoration projects (see Chapter 3, Introduction

under Restoration Activities in the Project Area) would improve deer habitat quality. 

Table WILD-18. Cumulative Changes in Deer Habitat Capability by WAA by Alternative (NFS 

and Non-NFS Lands)

WAA

Deer Habitat Capability as Percent of 1954 Values

1954 (Historic) Deer Habitat 

Capability1/ Alt 1 Alt 2 Alt 3 Alt 4

2007 3,761 79 79 79 79

5130 2,900 94 94 94 94

5131 2,119 88 87 87 87

5132 3,027 54 53 53 53

5133 2,927 95 95 95 95

5135 1,158 97 97 97 97

5136 1,539 82 81 81 81

5137 1,322 96 96 96 96

5138 2,108 88 86 86 86

Total 20,863 84 83 83 83

Note:

1/ DHC calculated from the deer model for winter habitat at all elevations. Habitat Suitability Indices (HSIs) were standardized 

to range from 0.0 to 1.0; 100 deer per square mile used as multiplier; no predation was included. 

Source: GIS Database, deer_model.aml, 2013.

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 would have no direct effects to deer habitat capability or to average snow, deep snow, or 

non-winter habitat because no action would be undertaken. 

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would not contribute to cumulative reductions in deer habitat capability or habitat loss for 

deer. 

Alternative 2 – Proposed Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 2 would result in a very minor reduction in deer habitat capability in the analysis area (less 

than 1 percent reduction within the analysis area WAAs; Table WILD-16). Alternative 2 would affect 

approximately 15 acres of deep snow winter habitat, 57 acres of average snow winter habitat, and 153

acres of non-winter habitat (one percent or less of the existing levels of these habitats in the analysis area; 

Table WILD-17). Note that non-forested habitat within the right-of-way would be maintained, retaining 

habitat value for deer.
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3-138 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 2 would make very minor contributions to reductions in deer habitat capability and loss of 

deer habitat. Alternative 2 would maintain 53 to 97 percent of the historic habitat capability in the 

analysis area WAAs (Table WILD-18). With the anticipated reduction in deer habitat capability as 

previously harvested stands in the analysis area reach the stem exclusion stage and as foreseeable timber 

harvest projects are implemented, the incremental addition of Alternative 2 would not be expected to 

affect current deer population trends.

Alternative 3 – Northern Route with Submarine Cable

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 3 would result in a very minor reduction in deer habitat capability in the analysis area (less 

than 1 percent reduction within the analysis area WAAs; Table WILD-16), comparable to Alternative 2. 

Alternative 3 would affect approximately 10 acres of deep snow winter habitat, 50 acres of average snow 

winter habitat, and 141 acres of non-winter habitat (one percent or less of the existing levels of these 

habitats in the analysis area; Table WILD-17). 

Cumulative Effects

Cumulative effects to deer under Alternative 3 would be the same as described under Alternative 2.

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 4 would result in a very minor reduction in deer habitat capability in the analysis area (less 

than 1 percent reduction within the analysis area WAAs; Table WILD-16). Alternative 4 would affect 

approximately 7 acres of deep snow winter habitat, 43 acres of average snow winter habitat, and 88 acres 

of non-winter habitat (one percent or less of the existing levels of these habitats in the analysis area; Table 

WILD-17). 

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 4 would make very minor contributions to reductions in deer habitat capability and loss of 

deer habitat. Alternative 4 would maintain 53 to 97 percent of the historic habitat capability in the 

analysis area WAAs, the same as Alternatives 2 and 3 (Table WILD-18). With the anticipated reduction 

in deer habitat capability as previously harvested stands in the analysis area reach the stem exclusion 

stage and as foreseeable timber harvest projects are implemented, the incremental addition of Alternative 

4 would not be expected to affect current deer population trends.

Alexander Archipelago Wolf

Effects Common to All Alternatives

The proposed project has the potential to directly adversely affect wolves through activities that create 

noise or disturbance, which could result in the displacement of individual wolves. There are no known 

wolf dens within the proposed rights-of-way; however, if a den site were discovered prior to or during 

construction the 1,200-foot Forest Plan den site buffer would applied. Therefore none of the alternatives 

would directly or indirectly impact active wolf dens. 

Potential indirect effects of the proposed project include the reduction in habitat capability for the wolf 

prey base (deer) through the removal of POG forest from the right-of-way. It is assumed that a decline in 

the deer population would likely result in a decline in the wolf population and a reduction in wolf density 

(USDA Forest Service 2008c). Resonating effects could include reductions in opportunities to hunt or 

trap wolves. Therefore, impacts to wolves are assessed in terms of the reduction in deer habitat capability 

(based on habitat capability model outputs in terms of deer density). Note that this density does not 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-139

represent actual population numbers but represents the functioning of the predator-prey system dynamic. 

Current deer habitat capabilities in the analysis area WAAs are below the Forest Plan guideline of 18 deer 

per square mile; however, all of the action alternatives would result in minor reductions in deer habitat 

capability (all alternatives would result in reductions 2 percent or less from the current habitat capability 

in the affected WAAs; Table WILD-19). 

The proposed project could also indirectly affect wolves through increased human access along existing 

roads. None of the alternatives would involve new road construction. Construction access would be via 

existing roads and temporary access spurs, temporary shovel trails, and helicopter. Therefore, road 

densities in analysis area WAAs would continue to fall within Forest Plan recommendations and no longterm increases in hunter access would be anticipated. Motorized access to project-specific temporary 

shovel trails and temporary access spurs used during construction would be prohibited, with nonmotorized access discouraged. As a result, human access along temporary shovel trails and access spurs

would be minor if it were to occur. 

Table WILD-19. Relative Changes in Modeled Deer Density by WAA and Alternative (NFS 

Lands Only)

WAA

Habitat Capability 

2013 (Current) Deer Habitat 

Capability (deer/mi2) Alt 1 Alt 2, 3, and 4

2007 13.8 13.8 13.7

5130 19.1 19.1 19.1

5131 16.9 16.9 16.8

5132 14.9 14.9 14.9

5133 16.6 16.6 16.6

5135 13.0 13.0 13.0

5136 13.5 13.5 13.3

5137 16.0 16.0 16.0

5138 17.0 17.0 16.6

Total 15.8 15.8 15.7

Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

Timber harvest that has occurred since 1954 has reduced habitat capability for deer in GMU 3 through the 

removal of POG. The proposed action alternatives would make a negligible contribution to this decline. 

Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable timber harvest projects on NFS and lands in other ownership would 

have similar effects. Collectively these actions have the potential to result in localized declines in the 

deer population, and thus the prey base for wolves. The Mitkof, Tonka, and Central Kupreanof 

restoration projects would improve deer habitat quality. 

The existing road system in the analysis area is limited, and would not be expanded as a result of the 

action alternatives. Roads proposed in association with ongoing and foreseeable timber harvest projects 

would increase analysis area road densities providing hunters and trappers with greater access to unroaded 

areas. This would also be the case if the Kake Access Project resulted in the development of a year-round 

road through the analysis area. New roads have the potential to increase wolf harvest rates. With no new 

road construction proposed, the KPI action alternatives would not incrementally add to these potential 

effects. Implementation of the Petersburg District ATM, which involves road closures, would reduce 

access on NFS lands. 

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Under Alternative 1, the proposed transmission line and associated facilities would not be constructed; 

therefore, this alternative would have no direct or indirect effects to wolves. Modeled deer densities 
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3-140 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

would remain at currently estimated levels (Table WILD-19). Indirectly, overtime as previously 

harvested forest stands in the analysis area mature, deer habitat capability would be expected to decline. 

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would not directly contribute to cumulative effect to wolves because no action would be 

undertaken. Under this alternative, deer habitat capability in the analysis area WAAs would remain 

between 54 and 95 percent of the historic (1954) values (Table WILD-20). 

Table WILD-20. Cumulative Impacts to Deer Habitat Capability by WAA by Alternative (NFS and 

Non-NFS Lands)

WAA

1954 (Historic) Deer Habitat 

Capability

Deer Habitat Capability as Percent of 1954 Values

Alt 1 Alt 2, 3, and 4

2007 18.8 79 79

5130 20.5 94 94

5131 19.3 88 87

5132 22.1 54 53

5133 17.4 95 95

5135 13.4 97 97

5136 16.5 82 81

5137 16.8 96 96

5138 19.3 88 86

Total 18.6 84 83

Alternatives 2, 3, and 4

Direct and Indirect Effects

Vegetation clearing along the right-of-way under all alternatives would result in a minor reduction in deer 

habitat which would be maintained over the long-term (see deer discussion above). However, none of the 

action alternatives would measurably reduce modeled deer densities, and thus affect the prey base for 

wolves. Current deer habitat capability would be reduced by two percent or less from current valued in 

all analysis area WAAs (Table WILD-19). As noted above, none of the action alternatives would 

increase analysis area road densities and potential increases in access due to project-related temporary 

shovel trails and access spurs would be limited. 

Cumulative Effects

The action alternatives would maintain between 53 and 97 percent of original (1954) deer habitat 

capability, the same as the existing levels (Table WILD-20). Therefore, the action alternatives would 

make a negligible contribution to impacts to the wolf prey base. Additionally, none of the action 

alternatives would contribute to increases in analysis area road densities. Although increased road 

densities (particularly open road densities) resulting from ongoing and foreseeable projects could increase 

wolf harvest mortality risk, unsustainable wolf mortality has not been identified as a concern for GMU 3. 

American Marten

Effects Common to All Alternatives

Construction of the proposed project has the potential to directly affect marten through disturbance which 

may displace individuals or could adversely affect young. The removal of forest cover and old-growth 

ecosystem features such as decadent live trees and snags (POG) within the proposed rights-of-way would 

reduce the structural complexity important to marten in relation to prey access, denning and resting sites, 

escape from predation, and thermoregulation (Buskirk and Zielinski 1997; Hargis et al. 1999; Flynn and 

Schumacher 2001). However, low growing vegetation, woody debris, and other features would be left in 

place within the right-of-way to the extent that they do not pose a safety hazard. Alternatives that result 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-141

in the greatest reduction in deep snow marten winter habitat would be expected to have the greatest 

effects to marten (Table WILD-21). 

Table WILD-21. Changes to Marten Deep Snow Winter Habitat by WAA by Alternative (NFS 

and Non-NFS Lands)

WAA

Acres Deep Snow Winter Habitat Impacted1/

Alt. 1 Alt. 2 Alt. 3 Alt. 4

2007 0 0 0 0

5130 0 0 0 0

5131 0 0 0 1

5132 0 0 0 1

5133 0 0 0 3

5135 0 0 0 0

5136 0 8 8 0

5137 0 1 1 0

5138 0 6 2 3

Total 0 15 10 7

Note:

1/ High volume POG (SD 5S, 5N, 6/7) at or below 800-foot elevation

Clearing of forested portions of the right-of-way would also increase fragmentation of the larger blocks of 

POG forest in the analysis area. However, connectivity would be maintained through narrower forested 

corridors under all alternatives (see Old-growth Forest and Landscape Connectivity discussion above). 

Additionally, because most of the large blocks of POG forest in the analysis area are unroaded or have 

very limited road systems, and none of the action alternatives propose roads, these areas would continue 

to provide trapping refugia for marten. Under all alternatives, short-term, localized increases in trapper 

access may occur along temporary shovel trails during the construction period; however, this is expected 

to minor were it to occur and would not be expected to measurably increase marten harvest rates. 

Additionally, although the right-of-way would create a linear corridor, there would be no permanent 

access along its length and it would not be maintained, cleared, or compacted for use by snowmobiles or 

other motorized uses. Therefore, none of the alternatives are expected to increase snowmobile-based 

marten trapping. Refugia would also continue to be maintained in the OGRs and other non-development 

LUDs in the analysis area. 

Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

Deep snow marten winter habitat has been reduced from historic levels in the analysis area by past timber 

harvest and other projects involving the removal of POG forest. The proposed project would result in 

minor additional reductions in deep snow marten habitat, contributing to similar effects resulting from ongoing and foreseeable timber harvest projects on NFS, state, and private lands. Given the sensitivity of 

marten to changes in habitat, there has likely already been some change in marten distribution in the 

analysis area due to reductions in connectivity among patches of habitat. 

The existing road system in the analysis area is limited, and would not be expanded as a result of the 

action alternatives. Roads proposed in association with ongoing and reasonably foreseeable timber 

harvest projects would increase analysis area road densities and contribute to potential issues associated 

with human access and overexploitation of marten along the road system. This would also be the case if 

the Kake Access Project resulted in the development of a year-round road through the analysis area. With 

no new road construction proposed, the KPI action alternatives would not incrementally add to these 

potential effects. Additionally, as stated above, the project would not be expected to increase 

snowmobile-based marten trapping along the right-of-way. Implementation of the Petersburg District

ATM, which involves road closures, would reduce access on NFS lands. The Forest Plan conservation 
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3-142 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

strategy as a whole will continue to be critical in maintaining a sustainable marten population in the 

analysis area WAAs.

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Under Alternative 1, the proposed transmission line and associated facilities would not be constructed; 

therefore, this alternative would have no direct or indirect effects to marten. 

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would not contribute to cumulative effect to marten because no action would be undertaken. 

Alternatives 2, 3, and 4

Direct and Indirect Effects

Effects to deep snow winter habitat would range from approximately 7 acres under Alternative 4 to 15 

acres under Alternative 2 (Table WILD-21). Alternative 3 would affect approximately 10 acres of deep 

snow winter habitat. In all cases, the affected acres comprise less than 1 percent of deep snow winter 

habitat present in the analysis area. All three alternatives would involve construction of temporary shovel 

trails and access spurs, and the use of temporary matting panels (Table 2-1). The development and use of 

these temporary shovel trails, matting panels, and temporary access spurs is unlikely to result in increased 

trapping pressure.

Cumulative Effects

All three action alternatives would make a minor contribution to the reduction in deer snow marten winter 

habitat in the analysis area. None of these alternatives would be expected to contribute substantially to 

increased trapping pressure because new access resulting from the proposed project would be limited (as 

discussed above). 

River Otter

Effects Common to All Alternatives

River otters prefer habitats, especially old-growth forest, immediately adjacent to coastal and fresh water 

aquatic environments, with most use occurring within 500 feet of the these areas. These habitats are 

protected by Forest Plan standards and guidelines for the beach and estuary fringe, riparian areas, and 

lakes. However, clearing of riparian forest and beach fringe within the right-of-way would occur under 

all action alternatives (Table WILD-13). Alternatives that result in the greatest reduction in these habitats 

would be expected to result in the greatest effects to river otters. However, effects to aquatic habitats 

used by river otters would be negligible due to the implementation R10 BMPs for maintaining water 

quality. Therefore, all of the action alternatives would be expected to have minor effects to river otters. 

Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

All of the action alternatives would make minor contributions to the reduction of riparian and beach 

fringe habitat in the analysis area. Ongoing and foreseeable timber harvest, young-growth treatments, and 

restoration activities on NFS lands would be subject to the same standards and guidelines, minimizing 

effects to river otter habitat. Young-growth treatments on NFS lands in riparian, beach, and estuary 

habits would improve habitat quality for river otters, as would restoration activities in the analysis area, 

particularly those focused on riparian and in-stream habitat improvement. Cumulative water quality 

impacts with the potential to affect aquatic habitats used by river otters would be expected to be minor, as 

all ongoing and foreseeable projects would implement R10, National Core, and State of Alaska BMPs for 

maintaining water quality.
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-143

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Under Alternative 1, the proposed transmission line and associated facilities would not be constructed; 

therefore, this alternative would have no direct or indirect effects to river otters. 

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would make no contribution to cumulative effects to river otters because no action would be 

undertaken. 

Alternatives 2, 3, and 4

Direct and Indirect Effects

Effects to beach fringe and riparian buffer habitats would range from approximately 130 acres under 

Alternative 4 to 182 acres under Alternative 2 (Table WILD-13). Alternative 3 would affect 

approximately 178 acres of beach fringe and riparian buffer habitats. In all cases, the affected acres 

comprise less than 1 percent of these habitats present in the analysis area. 

Cumulative Effects

All of the action alternatives would make a minor contribution to the loss of beach fringe and riparian 

buffer habitats in the analysis area. Given the implementation of Forest Plan standards and guidelines, 

including construction BMPs, these alternatives in combination with past, ongoing, and foreseeable 

projects would all be expected to maintain the river otter population. 

Red Squirrel

Effects Common to All Alternatives

All action alternatives would reduce the quality and quantity of red squirrel nesting, foraging, and 

denning habitat in the analysis area. Effects would be expected to be greatest under alternatives that 

would remove the most POG forest. Fragmentation would also increase under all action alternatives. 

However, red squirrels will utilize forest openings, and therefore movements would not be expected to be 

inhibited by the right-of-way. Therefore, impacts on red squirrels are likely to be minor.

Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

Past timber harvest has reduced the amount of red squirrel denning, nesting, and foraging habitat 

available in the Analysis area. Ongoing and foreseeable timber harvest on NFS lands and state lands 

would result in additional habitat loss. The proposed project would make a minor contribution to these 

effects. Young-growth treatments on NFS lands including those conducted under the Mitkof, Tonka, and 

Central Kupreanof restoration projects would improve habitat quality for flying squirrels. 

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 would have no direct or indirect effects to the red squirrel because the proposed 

transmission line and associated facilities would not be constructed and no POG forest would be 

removed. Under Alternative 1, the analysis area would continue to be subject to natural disturbances (i.e., 

windthrow), which would create gaps of various sizes over time. 

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would make no contribution to cumulative effects to red squirrels because no action would 

be undertaken. 

Alternative 2, 3, and 4
3 Environment and Effects 

3-144 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Direct and Indirect Effects

Removal of POG under each alternative is discussed in the Habitat subsection above (Table WILD-12). 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would remove the greatest amount of POG, and therefore would have the greatest 

effect to red squirrels, followed by Alternative 4.

Cumulative Effects

All of the action alternatives would make a minor contribution to the reduction in red squirrel habitat 

within the analysis area (less than 1 percent of existing habitat). Thus, all alternatives in combination 

with past, ongoing, and foreseeable projects would be expected to maintain the red squirrel population. 

Vancouver Canada Goose

Effects Common to All Alternatives

Due to the extensive nature of wetlands in the analysis area, complete avoidance all wetlands is not 

feasible. Where a wetland cannot be avoided, impacts would be minimized through the implementation 

of BMPs as directed by the Forest Plan (see the Wetlands section of this EIS for additional information). 

Forest Plan standards and guidelines provide additional protection of areas that are important for 

Vancouver Canada goose nesting, brooding, rearing, and molting. 

Clearing of the right-of-way and associated activities under all action alternatives would have the 

potential to affect Vancouver Canada geese through noise and disturbance if activities occur in the 

vicinity of nest sites. The proposed project would also affect this species through the removal of forested 

wetlands. Conversion of these stands to young growth would be expected to lower the ability of this 

habitat to support Vancouver Canada geese. Shrubs and trees would be expected to quickly revegetate 

the right-of-way, and wetland characteristics (e.g., soil moisture levels) may partially return to normal. 

However, since long-term right-of-way maintenance would prevent a mature forest in the right-of-way, 

wetland characteristics may remain altered in these wetlands, reducing habitat quality over the long-term. 

Alternatives that affect the most forested wetlands are assumed to have the greatest effects to Vancouver 

Canada geese.

Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

Past timber harvest and road building have disturbed wetlands in the analysis area (see the Wetlands

section for additional discussion), reducing the amount of habitat available for the Vancouver Canada 

goose. Previously logged forested wetlands in the process of regenerating generally support young 

forests, which may become suitable for geese, though habitat suitability would decline once stands hit the 

stem exclusion stage. The action alternatives would make a minor contribution to these effects.

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 would have no direct or indirect effects to the Vancouver Canada goose because the 

proposed transmission line and associated facilities would not be constructed and no forested wetlands 

would be removed. 

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would make no contribution to cumulative effects to the Vancouver Canada goose because 

no action would be undertaken. 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-145

Alternatives 2, 3, and 4

Direct and Indirect Effects

All three action alternatives would affect forested wetlands, with the total acres of forested wetlands 

disturbed ranging from 161 acres (Alternative 4) to 216 acres (Alternative 2). An estimated 201 forested 

wetland acres would be disturbed under Alternative 3 (Table WET-2). Thus, all alternatives would 

reduce the amount of habitat available for Vancouver Canada geese. However, in all cases, this

represents a small share of the total forested wetlands in the analysis area. 

Cumulative Effects

Clearing of the right-of-way and other construction activities would contribute to noise and disturbance 

resulting from other ongoing and foreseeable projects within and near forested wetlands which could 

affect nesting geese. All activities on NFS lands would implement Forest Plan standard and guidelines 

which maintain habitat for this species. 

Bald Eagle

Effects Common to All Alternatives

Clearing for the right-of-way and other construction activities that create noise and disturbance (e.g., 

helicopter transport of transmission line structures) have the potential to result in minor, temporary 

disturbance to individual birds. As required by the Forest Plan, all alternatives would be conducted in 

accordance with the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, including maintaining appropriate distances 

from active bald eagle nests. Helicopter flight paths that would avoid disturbance to bald eagle nests 

based on Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act requirements would be identified as appropriate.

Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

It is assumed that all ongoing and foreseeable actions in the analysis area would also be conducted in 

accordance with the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. Therefore, no adverse cumulative effects to 

bald eagles are anticipated under any alternative. 

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 would have no direct or indirect effects to bald eagles because the proposed transmission 

line and associated facilities would not be constructed. 

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would make not contribution to cumulative effect to bald eagles because no action would be 

undertaken. As noted above, it is assumed that all other ongoing and foreseeable projects would be 

conducted in accordance with the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection act; therefore no adverse cumulative 

effects would occur. 

Alternatives 2, 3, and 4

Direct and Indirect Effects

Bald eagle nesting habitat in the analysis area is protected by OGRs, non-development LUDs, and the 

1,000-foot beach and estuary buffer. Should an active nest be found adjacent to any proposed activity, 

appropriate nest site buffers and timing restrictions would be implemented to protect nesting bald eagles. 

The marine crossings proposed under the action alternatives could directly or indirectly affect foraging 

habitat (coastal areas), through short-term reductions in water quality. However, impacts to bald eagle 

prey resources in the marine environment are not anticipated due to the implementation of spill 

control/rapid response measures in the event of an oil or fuel spill during construction and implementation 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-146 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

of other BMPs for water quality (see the Aquatic Resources section for additional discussion). Therefore, 

all of the action alternatives would have negligible effects to bald eagles.

Cumulative Effects

Alternatives 2, 3, and 4 would make negligible contributions to cumulative effects to bald eagles 

associated with temporary, localized noise. All project activities would be implemented in accordance 

with the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. It is assumed that ongoing and foreseeable actions in the 

analysis area would also be conducted accordingly. Thus, the proposed alternatives in combination with 

ongoing and foreseeable activities would have negligible cumulative effects to bald eagles.

Hairy Woodpecker, Red-breasted Sapsucker, and Brown Creeper

Effects Common to All Alternatives

Clearing for the right-of-way and associated activities under all action alternatives have the potential to 

disturb nesting adults and young, destroy nests, reduce habitat availability or cause nest abandonment. 

Because these species are year-round residents, timber harvest activities could also disturb and displace 

birds during the non-breeding season. 

Direct effects to the red-breasted sapsucker, hairy woodpecker, and brown creeper would also result from 

the removal of nesting and foraging habitat (POG forest) and associated structural components (e.g., 

large-diameter trees, snags) from within the proposed rights-of-way. Indirectly, right-of-way clearing

would increase fragmentation, reducing the effectiveness of interior forest habitat and creating habitat 

edges along which there may be increased rates of nest predation by avian predators (Kissling and Garton 

2008). Alternatives that remove more POG forest would be expected to have greater effects to these 

species. 

Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

Past timber harvest in the analysis area has reduced the amount of foraging and nesting habitat available 

in the analysis area for the red-breasted sapsucker, hairy woodpecker, and brown creeper. Fragmentation 

resulting from past timber harvest has also reduced patch sizes, decreasing the suitability of remaining 

habitat through the loss of interior forest conditions. All of the action alternatives would make minor 

contributions to these effects. Ongoing and foreseeable timber harvest on NFS lands, including small 

sales and free use, and state lands would result in additional habitat loss and associated fragmentation. 

Young-growth treatments on NFS lands and restoration projects may provide additional foraging 

opportunities for cavity nesters through the increase in downed wood. Under all alternatives, the Forest 

Plan conservation strategy would maintain snag and large-tree habitat for these species.

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 would have no direct or indirect effects to the hairy woodpecker, red-breasted sapsucker, 

and brown creeper because no POG forest would be removed. Under Alternative 1, the analysis area

would continue to be subject to natural disturbances (i.e., windthrow), which would create gaps of various 

sizes over time.

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would make no contribution to cumulative effects to the hairy woodpecker, red-breasted 

sapsucker, or brown creeper because no action would be undertaken. 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-147

Alternatives 2, 3, and 4

Direct and Indirect Effects

Removal of POG under each alternative is discussed in the Habitat subsection above (see also Table 

WILD-12). Alternatives 2 and 3 would remove the greatest amount of POG, and therefore would have 

the greatest effect to the hairy woodpecker, red-breasted sapsucker, and brown creeper, followed by 

Alternative 4.

Cumulative Effects

All of the action alternatives would make a minor contribution to the reduction in habitat for the hairy 

woodpecker, red-breasted sapsucker, and brown creeper within the analysis area (less than 1 percent of 

existing habitat). Thus, all alternatives in combination with past, ongoing, and foreseeable projects would 

be expected to maintain populations of these species.

Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Species

A preliminary determination was made to assess the effects of the project on threatened, endangered, 

candidate, and sensitive species. A detailed analysis of effects to each species is provided in the project 

BA/BE (Tetra Tech 2014c). None of the alternatives would adversely affect listed species or their 

habitats, nor would they be likely to result in a trend toward Federal listing or a loss of viability for any 

sensitive species. A detailed analysis of effects to the Queen Charlotte goshawk is provided below.

Queen Charlotte Goshawk 

Effects Common to All Alternatives

The proposed alternatives have the potential to directly adversely affect goshawks through activities that 

create noise or disturb adults or young, potentially resulting in the temporary displacement of individual 

birds or nest abandonment. 

If a new nest were located during the course of the project, Forest Plan standards and guidelines for 

goshawk nest protection would apply (USDA Forest Service 2008a, page 4-99). These guidelines include 

maintaining an area of not less than 100 acres of productive old-growth forest (if present) generally 

centered over the nest tree or probable nest site to provide for prey handling areas, perches, roosts, 

alternate nests, hiding over, and foraging opportunities for young goshawks (USDA Forest Service 

2008a). 

Timing restrictions would apply to activities in the vicinity of a nest to allow that year’s brood to 

successfully fledge. Probable nest stands (e.g., a goshawk is observed but no direct or indirect evidence 

of a confirmed nest is documented) may allow activities within the 100 acres surrounding a probable nest 

stand, but only if two years of monitoring indicate no use. Goshawks are year-round residents in the 

analysis area; therefore, Project activities could disturb or temporarily displace birds during the nonbreeding season. 

Direct effects to goshawks would also result from the reduction of perching, foraging, and potential 

nesting habitat through the removal of POG forest. Indirectly, removal of forest cover within the right-ofway has the potential to affect the abundance and availability of prey (e.g., red squirrels). It is assumed 

that alternatives that remove the most POG forest would have the greatest effects to goshawks.

Under all action alternatives, there is the risk of collision with the transmission line and electrocution 

during project operation. Collisions with transmission line structures (e.g., poles) are unlikely because

goshawks are adept at navigating and avoiding structures while flying through forested environments. To

minimize the risk of collisions with guy wires and the transmission line and electrocution, the line would 

be constructed in compliance with Avian Power Line Interaction Committee (APLIC) standards.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-148 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

Past timber harvest and associated activities in the analysis area has removed and fragmented POG forest 

potentially used by goshawks. Ongoing and future timber harvest on NFS and state and private lands in 

the analysis area would result in additional loss of old-growth forest. The action alternatives would make 

a minor contribution to these effects. Ongoing and foreseeable young-growth treatment and other 

thinning projects on NFS lands will, over the long-term, enhance goshawk habitat. 

Foraging goshawks could be temporarily disturbed or displaced by activities associated with construction 

of the proposed project. Similar disturbance also has the potential to occur in association with the other 

timber harvest, restoration, and ongoing road maintenance activities. Minor short-term cumulative effects 

to goshawks may occur if the noise or disturbance associated with these activities and the proposed 

project coincide. 

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 would have no direct or indirect effects to goshawks because the proposed transmission line 

and associated facilities would not be constructed.

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would not contribute to cumulative effects to goshawks as no action would be undertaken.

Alternatives 2, 3, and 4

Direct and Indirect Effects

Removal of POG under each alternative is discussed in the Habitat subsection above (see also Table 

WILD-12). Alternatives 2 and 3 would remove the greatest amount of POG (327 acres and 324 acres, 

respectively), followed by Alternative 4 (296 acres; Table WILD-12). Alternatives 2 and 3 would also 

remove the most high-volume POG (99 acres and 97 acres, respectively), followed by Alternative 4 (51 

acres). Regardless of the alternative, the reduction in total and high-volume POG would be minor, 

comprising one percent or less of the existing amount within the analysis area as a whole, and 2 percent or 

less from any individual VCU (Table WILD-12).

As noted in the Affected Environment section, two new nests were discovered during Project surveys, 

including one south of Petersburg in VCU 4470 and one just west of Duncan Canal along the CenterSouth Route in VCU 4380. The Northern route corridor (Alternatives 2 and 3) comes within 600 feet of 

the nest associated with the Scott Peak territory and one of the newly documented nests. The CenterSouth route corridor (Alternative 4) comes within 600 feet of a nest associated with the Mitchell Creek 

territory and one of the newly documented nests. If a new nest were located during the course of the 

project, Forest Plan standards and guidelines for goshawk nest protection would apply (USDA Forest 

Service 2008a, pages 4-99). Under the Forest Plan standards and guidelines, no goshawk nests would be 

removed and at least 100 acres of POG would be mapped and maintained near nests. Timing restrictions 

would apply to activities in the vicinity of a nest to allow that year’s brood to successfully fledge. 

Probable nest stands (e.g., a goshawk is observed but no direct or indirect evidence of a confirmed nest is 

documented) may allow activities within the 100 acres surrounding a probable nest stand, but only if two 

years of monitoring indicate no use. Depending on the selected alternative and the timing of construction 

in the vicinity of these nest locations, a combination of follow up surveys and/or implementation of a 

timing restriction within 600 feet of the nest tree locations from March 15 to August 15 would apply.

Cumulative Effects

All of the action alternatives have the potential to result in a local reduction in goshawk nesting and 

foraging habitat, due to the removal of POG forest. However, given the amount of remaining POG forest 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-149

within the analysis area, none of the alternatives would be expected to result in a reduction in the density 

of goshawks using the analysis area or in impacts to goshawk prey populations. Given that goshawks are 

highly mobile and that habitat is protected under the Forest Plan conservation strategy the effects of the 

proposed project in combination with past, present, and foreseeable activities may adversely impact 

individuals, but are not likely to result in a loss of viability in the Planning Area, nor cause a trend toward 

Federal listing.

Migratory Birds

Effects Common to All Alternatives

Direct effects to migratory birds would result from disturbances that disrupt breeding birds, remove active 

bird nests, or cause nest abandonment. For species that are year-round residents, clearing of the right-ofway and associated activities have the potential to disturb and displace birds during the non-breeding 

season. The migratory bird species most likely to be adversely affected by the project are those that 

primarily nest in POG forests (e.g., Western screech-owl, rufous hummingbird, red-breasted sapsucker, 

Pacific-slope flycatcher, Steller’s jay, northwestern crow, chestnut-backed chickadee, golden-crowned 

kinglet, varied thrush, Townsend's warbler, and blackpoll warbler). Species associated with early 

successional habitats and forest edges (e.g., MacGillivray’s warbler, golden-crowned sparrow, and 

golden-crowned kinglet) may benefit from clearing of the right-of-way. 

Habitat fragmentation can strongly influence bird community composition and bird distribution and has 

been identified as a major cause of population declines of breeding migratory songbirds (DellaSala et al. 

1996; Manuwal and Manuwal 2002). Clearing of the right-of-way would reduce the effectiveness of 

interior forest habitat, and increase the potential for nest predation and nest parasitism for some species, 

which can ultimately reduce reproductive success (Robinson et al. 1995). 

Migratory birds would be most susceptible to impacts from vegetation removal occurring in suitable 

nesting habitat during the nesting/fledging period. The USFWS has recommended time periods for 

Alaska during which to avoid vegetation clearing in order to avoid these impacts. In forests and 

woodlands of Southeast Alaska, this time period is April 15 through July 15 (USFWS 2006). As a result, 

the effect of any action alternative on migratory birds is likely to be minor.

Under all alternatives there is the risk that migratory birds could collide with the transmission line or be 

electrocuted. The transmission line would be built to APLIC standards which would minimize this risk 

(APLIC 2006). 

Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

Past timber harvest in the analysis area has removed migratory bird habitat or reduced its suitability 

through fragmentation (and associated edge effects such as predation). The action alternatives would 

make a minor contribution these effects. Ongoing and foreseeable timber harvest and road development 

projects would result in additional loss of habitat for some migratory bird species. Young-growth 

treatment on NFS lands and restoration activities that involve thinning, would collectively improve 

habitat conditions for old-growth associated migratory birds; though over the long-term, these stands 

would become available for harvest again. Species associated with early successional and scrub habitats 

would experience short-term benefits from ongoing and foreseeable timber harvest projects. 

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 would have no adverse direct and indirect effects to migratory birds because no action 

would be undertaken. 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-150 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would make not contribution to cumulative effect to migratory birds because no action 

would be undertaken.

Alternatives 2, 3, and 4

Direct and Indirect Effects

Removal of POG forest in the analysis area by alternative and associated fragmentation effects are 

discussed in the Habitat subsection above. Alternatives 2 and 3 would remove the greatest amount of 

POG (327 acres and 324 acres, respectively), followed by Alternatives 4 (296 acres; Table WILD-12). 

Cumulative Effects

All of the action alternatives would contribute to the reduction in habitat for migratory bird species 

associated with POG habitats and increase fragmentation. However, effects would be localized and 

would not preclude migratory birds from using the analysis area. Species associated with early 

successional and scrub habitats would benefit from clearing of the right-of-way. Birds may be displaced 

if project activities occur during the nesting season. 

Endemics

Effects Common to All Alternatives

The insular dusky shrew, the only known endemic species potentially occurring in the analysis area and 

not addressed above, is associated with riparian habitats and therefore could be affected by vegetation 

removal where the transmission line right-of-way, temporary shovel trails, or temporary access spurs 

cross riparian zones. Construction of the proposed project through these areas could directly disturb 

shrews and remove and fragment suitable habitat. It is assumed that alternatives that remove the most 

riparian habitat (habitat within riparian buffers) would have the greatest effect to insular dusky shrews.

Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

All of the action alternatives would make minor contributions to the reduction of riparian habitat in the 

analysis area. Ongoing and foreseeable timber harvest, young-growth treatments, and restoration 

activities on NFS lands would be subject to the same standards and guidelines, minimizing effects to 

insular dusky shrew habitat. Young-growth treatments on NFS lands in riparian, beach, and estuary 

habits would improve habitat quality for this species, as would restoration activities in the analysis area, 

particularly those focused on riparian habitat improvement.

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Under Alternative 1, the proposed transmission line and associated facilities would not be constructed; 

therefore, this alternative would have no direct or indirect effects to the insular dusky shrew. 

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would make no contribution to cumulative effects to the insular dusky shrew because no 

action would be undertaken.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-151

Alternatives 2, 3, and 4

Direct and Indirect Effects

Acres of riparian habitat impacted would range from 33 acres under Alternatives 2 and 3 to 110 acres 

under Alternative 4, less than 1 percent of this habitat available in the analysis area.

Cumulative Effects

All the action alternatives would make a minor contribution to the loss of riparian habitat in the analysis 

area. Given the implementation of Forest Plan standards and guidelines, including construction BMPs, 

The proposed alternatives in combination with past, ongoing, and foreseeable projects would be expected 

to result in minor impacts to the insular dusky shrew.

Subsistence

Effects Common to All Alternatives

ANILCA requires that any analysis of project-related effects on Federal lands within Alaska take into 

account, 1) subsistence resource distribution and abundance, 2) access to these resources by subsistence 

users, and 3) competition for the use of these subsistence resources. Changes in access to subsistence 

resources due to project-related activities can affect the level of effort required, time involved, and the 

effectiveness of harvesting these resources. Altered distributions and abundance of subsistence resources 

can affect competition between subsistence and non-subsistence user, as well as competition between 

individual subsistence users. 

None of the proposed alternatives would present “a significant possibility of a significant restriction” of 

subsistence uses for any subsistence resources (fish and marine invertebrates, food plants, personal use 

timber, upland game birds and waterfowl, furbearers, big game, and marine mammals). 

Potential impacts to these resources are described below. The discussion of the alternatives focuses on 

deer which are the largest terrestrial component of subsistence food resources, and are considered an 

indicator for potential subsistence resource consequences concerning the abundance and distribution of 

resources (USDA Forest Service 2008c).

Fish and Marine Invertebrates: The proposed project would not affect the abundance and distribution of, 

access to, or competition for anadromous or marine fish and marine invertebrates. The risk of projectrelated impacts to fish populations would be minimal because of Forest Plan beach and estuary, riparian, 

and fish standards and guidelines which maintain water quality and fish habitat (see the Aquatic 

Resources section for additional discussion). Although the project may adversely affect Freshwater EFH 

and Marine EFH, effects would be temporary and localized (see the Aquatic Resources section). Fishing 

and marine invertebrate harvesting occurs primarily from boats, on beaches, and along estuaries. No 

project-related activities expected to occur in the marine environment would preclude access to, or 

increase competition, for these resources. 

Food Plants and Personal Use Timber: None of the alternatives are expected to negatively affect the 

abundance or distribution of subsistence plants gathered for food, because these resources are abundant in 

previously harvested areas, and may increase in abundance within the cleared right-of-way. The proposed

project would not preclude Alaska residents from obtaining timber and firewood for personal use. 

Temporary shovel trails under all action alternatives may temporarily increase local access to areas where 

food plants and firewood can be gathered. Therefore, short-term changes in competition for food plants 

or personal use timber may occur. However, motorized access to temporary shovel trails and temporary 

access spurs used during construction would be prohibited, with non-motorized access discouraged. 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-152 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Upland Game Birds and Waterfowl: All action alternatives would result in a minor reduction in upland 

game bird habitat (i.e., POG). No measurable effects to waterfowl would occur, given that most species 

occur in the analysis area only during migration on lakes and in bays and estuaries (an exception is the 

Vancouver Canada goose which uses forested wetlands), and thus would be minimally exposed to 

project-related activities in the vicinity of these areas. Thus no changes in the abundance or distribution 

of upland game birds and waterfowl are anticipated under any of the alternatives. No new roads would be 

developed under the proposed alternatives and motorized access to temporary shovel trails and temporary 

access spurs used during construction would be prohibited, with non-motorized access discouraged. As a 

result, potential increases in the number of hunters due to improved access would likely be minor. 

Further, competition would likely remain the same because upland birds and waterfowl do not contribute 

a large percentage of the foods for the subsistence communities in the analysis area.

Furbearers: Estuary, riparian, and forested coastal habitats that receive the greatest use by furbearers, such 

as river otters and ermine, are protected under the Forest Plan conservation strategy. Although the action 

alternatives would remove a minor amount of beach fringe and riparian buffer habitat, the proposed 

project would not be expected to affect the abundance or distribution of these species. Clearing of the 

right-of-way would reduce the amount and increase fragmentation of POG forest, which could affect the 

local distribution of marten. However, no measurable increase in hunter access would occur under any of 

the action alternatives (see Marten discussion above), and therefore no increase in harvest vulnerability 

for any furbearer would be expected. Therefore, none of the action alternatives would be expected to 

result in an increase in competition among local communities. 

Marine Mammals: Marine mammals have the potential to be exposed to disturbance and noise associated 

with MAF or LTF activity, potential collisions with vessels, and fuel or oil spills associated with vessel 

traffic during construction of the marine crossings. Marine construction activities and associated vessel 

traffic are not likely to affect the abundance or distribution of marine mammals in Frederick Sound 

(Alternatives 2 and 3), Wrangell Narrows (Alternatives 2, 3, and 4), or Duncan Canal (Alternative 4), 

given the transient nature of these species and the fact that such vessels typically operate at low, constant 

speeds, giving the marine mammal species time for avoidance, and would operate at infrequent intervals. 

Additionally, it is assumed that all vessels operating on behalf of the proposed project would adhere to 

Marine Mammal Protection Act, ESA, and NMFS guidelines for approaching marine mammals, as 

required under the Forest Plan. Therefore, no change in access to, or competition for, marine mammals 

would occur as a result of the project.

Cumulative Effects Common to All Alternatives

Past timber harvest has altered the distribution of subsistence resources used by the communities in the 

vicinity of the KPI Project, through changes in the distribution of habitat types (albeit minor). The 

proposed project would make minor contributions to these effects. Young-growth treatments and habitat 

restoration projects would likely have a positive effect on the abundance and distribution of deer and 

other land-based subsistence resources. Ongoing and reasonably foreseeable timber harvest projects and 

associated road construction would contribute to these effects, as would the Kake Access Project if it 

were to result in the development of a year-round road through the analysis area. Effects may include 

decreased habitat capability for deer, and reductions in habitat for other subsistence resources (e.g., game 

birds) which could decrease distribution and abundance of subsistence resources, as well as increased

access to and competition for subsistence resources due to new roads. The extent of potential impacts 

would be evaluated in the Draft EIS for the Kake Access Project, which is expected to be available in 

2016.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence ▪ 3-153

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 would have no direct or indirect effects on subsistence resources as no project-related 

activities would occur. 

Cumulative Effects

Alternative 1 would make no contribution to cumulative effects to subsistence resources because no 

action would be undertaken.

Alternatives 2, 3, and 4

Direct and Indirect Effects

Distribution and Abundance

After clearing for the right-of-way, deer may locally shift their patterns of activity in response to the 

transition from mature forest to early successional vegetation (Wallmo and Schoen 1980). As described 

above, implementation of the action alternatives would result in negligible decline in deer winter habitat 

capability (one percent or less from existing amounts) which would not be expected to lead to a reduction 

in the deer population (Table WILD-16; see also the deer discussion above for additional detail). 

Therefore, the action alternatives would be expected to result in minor effects to the distribution of deer, 

and negligible effects to deer abundance.

Access

Road building is an important agent of change in Southeast Alaska. Road networks provide greater 

access to areas previously not accessible and can affect subsistence both positively and negatively by 

providing access, dispersing hunting pressure, and creating the potential for increased competition for 

favored hunting areas among communities connected by the existing road system (USDA Forest Service 

2008c). No new roads would be developed under the proposed alternatives and motorized access to 

temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs used during construction would be prohibited, with 

non-motorized access discouraged. Access would decrease as these temporary spurs are allowed to 

revegetate following the 3-year construction period, after which none of the action alternatives would 

affect subsistence access. As a result, potential increases in the number of hunters due to improved access 

would likely be minor. Historical access would remain available under all the alternatives. 

Competition

Competition for subsistence resources is a result the distribution and fluctuation in population levels of 

game species, harvest regulations, mobility, and access provided to rural communities in the form of 

roads, ferries, and commercial air carriers. The analysis area is commonly used by subsistence hunters 

from Kake, Kupreanof, and Petersburg. The existing road networks on Kupreanof Island connect Kake 

and Petersburg to parts of the analysis area, allowing access to the area for hunting and other subsistence 

activities. However, the communities are not connected to each other via the road network. None of the 

action alternatives would result in increased competition for deer because the existing level of access to 

the analysis area would be maintained over the long-term (no new roads are proposed under any of the 

alternatives) and deer population levels would not change (the minor reduction in habitat capability under 

all action alternatives would not be expected to reduce the number of deer available to hunters). 

Cumulative Effects

The action alternatives would make very minor contributions to reductions in deer habitat capability. All 

action alternatives would maintain 53 to 97 percent of the historic habitat capability in the analysis area 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-154 ▪ Chapter 3 – Wildlife and Subsistence Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

WAAs (Table WILD-18). Therefore, the action alternatives in conjunction with past and foreseeable 

actions may further alter the abundance or distribution of deer through reductions in carrying capacity.

Mitigation

The effects of the KPI Project on wildlife would be limited through the site-specific application of Forest 

Plan standards and guidelines including Beach and Estuary, Reserve Tree/Cavity Nesting Habitat, Bald 

Eagle, Heron and Raptor Nest Protection, Alexander Archipelago, Goshawk, and Marine Mammals, and 

project-specific mitigation measures (see Chapter 2).
3 Environment and Effects

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Transportation ▪ 3-155

Transportation 

Introduction 

The transportation section provides an assessment of the current condition of the project area and the 

potential effects of implementing the proposed action and the alternatives on transportation. The analysis 

concentrates on the potential effects associated with construction and operation of the proposed 

transmission line, as well as the potential impacts of not proceeding with the proposed project (i.e., the no 

action alternative).

Analysis Area and Methodology

The analysis area for direct, indirect, and cumulative effects to transportation consists of the VCUs 

crossed by one of more of the action alternatives. The information sources used for this analysis include 

GIS transportation data maintained by the Tongass National Forest. Impacts are assessed based on the

proposed access for each alternative. Potential impacts during construction include the transportation of 

workers, equipment, and materials along the proposed rights-of-way, as well as the potential removal of 

merchantable timber (i.e., trees with commercial value as timber). Impacts during operation are primarily 

related to the proposed development of permanent helicopter pads for future maintenance needs. 

Affected Environment 

The analysis area includes state and municipal roads located in and around Petersburg and Kake, as well 

as NFS roads. State and municipal roads in the analysis area include the Mitkof Highway and Sandy 

Beach Road in Petersburg and Keku Road in Kake. The Petersburg and Kake community road systems 

are on non-NFS lands and not under the jurisdiction of the Tongass National Forest. There is no 

interconnecting highway system between islands or communities in the analysis area.

Four NFS road systems are located within the analysis area: the Mitkof road system on Mitkof Island, and 

the Tonka, Portage, and Kake road systems on Kupreanof Island. Most of these NFS roads were 

constructed as part of previous timber sale contracts for the purpose of timber haul and administration. 

Most current road use is administrative, logging traffic, or public use, with the latter use mainly occurring 

in the vicinity of communities (USDA Forest Service 2009a).

National Forest System Roads 

Forest Road Classification

Forest roads are classified as NFS roads, temporary roads, and unauthorized roads by 36 CFR 212.1. The 

definitions for these road types are provided below. 

• National Forest System road: “A forest road other than a road which has been authorized by a 

legally documented right-of-way held by a State, county, or other local public road authority.” 

NFS roads are generally required to provide long-term or intermittent motor vehicle access. 

These roads receive constant or intermittent use depending upon the timing of timber harvest and 

other activities. When a road is not needed in the short term but future use is anticipated, it is 

closed and placed in storage. NFS roads are managed by a system of maintenance levels (ML), 

depending on their intended use and suitability for various types of vehicles. These levels are ML 

1 (closed and in storage), ML 2 (suitable for high-clearance vehicles), ML 3 (suitable for 

passenger vehicles, rough surface), ML 4 (suitable for passenger vehicles, smooth surface), and 

ML 5 (suitable for passenger cars, dust free, possibly paved). These levels are summarized 

further below:
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3-156 ▪ Chapter 3 – Transportation Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

­ ML 1 – Closed: Assigned to intermittent service roads during the time they are closed to 

vehicle traffic. Emphasis is normally given to maintaining drainage facilities and runoff 

patterns. ML 1 roads may be of any type, class, or construction standard, and may be 

managed at any other maintenance level when they are open for traffic. 

­ ML 2 – Mixed Use: Assigned to roads open for use by high-clearance vehicles and OHVs. 

Traffic is normally minor, usually consisting of one use or a combination of administrative, 

permitted, dispersed recreation, or other specialized uses. Log haul may occur at this level.

­ ML 3 – Passenger Vehicles: Assigned to roads open and maintained for travel by a prudent 

driver in a highway legal vehicle. User comfort and convenience are not considered 

priorities. Roads in this maintenance level are typically low-speed, single-lane roads with 

turnouts and spot surfacing. Some roads may be fully surfaced with either native or 

processed material.

­ ML 4 – Passenger Vehicles: Assigned to roads that provide a moderate degree of user 

comfort and convenience at moderate travel speeds. Most roads are double-lane and 

aggregate surfaced. However, some roads may be single-lane. Some roads may be paved 

and/or dust abated.

­ ML 5 – Passenger Vehicles: Assigned to roads that provide a high degree of user comfort 

and convenience. These roads are normally double-lane, paved facilities. Some may be 

aggregate surface and dust abated.

• Temporary road or trail: “A road or trail necessary for emergency operations or authorized by 

contract, permit, lease, or other written authorization that is not a forest road or trail, and that is 

not included in a forest transportation atlas.” Temporary roads are intended for short-term use 

and maintained for a limited time usually to access a timber harvest unit. Temporary roads are 

decommissioned after their intended use.

• Unauthorized Road or Trail: “A road or trail that is not a forest road or trail or a temporary road 

or trail and that is not included in a forest transportation atlas.” These include unplanned roads 

and off-road vehicle tracks that have not been designated and managed as roads or trails. Roads 

that are no longer under permit or authorization and have not been decommissioned are also 

considered unauthorized.

• Decommissioned Road: A road removed from the long-term forest road transportation system. 

Decommissioning ranges from blocking the entrance to the road and removing drainage 

structures to obliterating the road, returning the natural contours, and replanting vegetation. The 

end result is the stabilization and restoration of unneeded roads to a more natural state

Forest Roads in the Analysis Area

There are four NFS road systems located within the KPI project area: the Mitkof road system on Mitkof 

Island and the Tonka, Portage, and Kake road systems on Kupreanof Island (Figure TRAN-1). The 

Decision Notice and Finding of No Significant Impact (DN/FONSI) for the ATM Plan EA for the 

Petersburg Ranger District identified 130.7 miles of NFS roads on Mitkof Island and 237.7 miles on 

Kupreanof Island (Table TRAN-1). Originally built to support logging operations, these roads are now 

used in support of multiple use activities. 

Almost one-quarter of the NFS roads on Mitkof Island are ML 1 (closed to vehicle traffic), with the 

remainder allocated to ML 2 (35 percent) and ML 3 (42 percent). Slightly more than half (52 percent) of 

the NFS roads on Kupreanof Island are ML 2, with the remaining roads either ML 1 (25 percent) or ML 3 
Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Transportation ▪ 3-157
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3-158 ▪ Chapter 3 – Transportation Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

(22 percent) (Table TRAN-1). ML 4 and ML 5 roads are suitable for passenger vehicles and generally 

connect with community road systems. ML 4 and ML 5 roads on the Petersburg Ranger District typically 

access parking areas and comprise less than one percent of total roads on the District (USDA Forest 

Service 2009a). ML 3, ML 4, and ML 5 roads are closed to OHVs.

Table TRAN-1. NFS Roads on Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands

Road Type1/ ML 1 ML 2 ML 3 Total

Mitkof Island

 Miles 29.7 46 55 130.7

 Percent of Total 23 35 42 100

Kupreanof Island

 Miles 60.5 124.7 52.5 237.7

 Percent of Total 25 52 22 100

Notes:

ML – maintenance level

1/ ML 4 and ML 5 access parking areas and constitute less than one percent of roads on the Petersburg Ranger District. 

Source: USDA Forest Service 2009a

The three NFS road systems on Kupreanof Island: Tonka, Portage, and Kake are not connected with one 

another and the Tonka and Portage road systems have no direct land-based access from communities

(Figure TRAN-1). The Kake road system is accessed via road from the city of Kake. The Kake road 

system accounts for almost half of the total NFS road mileage on Kupreanof Island and about half of the 

open road mileage (Table TRAN-2). The remaining miles are divided between the Portage and Tonka 

road systems. The Portage road system has more total miles, but fewer open miles than the Tonka road 

system (Table TRAN-2). 

Table TRAN-2. NFS Road Systems on Kupreanof Island

NFS Road 

System

ML 1 ML 2 and ML 3 Total

Miles

Percent of 

Total Miles

Percent 

of Total Miles

Percent 

of Total

Kake 26.7 44 88.1 50 114.8 48

Portage 22.8 38 40.3 23 63.1 27

Tonka 10.9 18 49.1 28 60.0 25

Total 60.4 100 177.5 100 237.9 100

Notes:

ML – maintenance level

1/ Totals may not sum or match Table TRAN-1 exactly due to rounding.

Source: USDA Forest Service 2009a

There are a total of 231 miles of NFS road within the analysis area (Table TRAN-3). Almost one-half (45 

percent) of these miles are part of the Kake road system. ML 2 roads accounted for almost two-thirds (62 

percent) of the total NFS road miles (Table TRAN-3). 

Table TRAN-3. NFS Road Systems within the Transportation Analysis Area (miles)

NFS Road 

System ML 1 ML 2 ML 3 Total

Mitkof 1.8 8.6 15.0 25.4

Kake 15.6 40.5 47.3 103.4

Portage 5.7 39.4 0 45.1

Tonka 1.4 55.6 0 57.1

Total 24.6 144.1 62.3 231.0

Percent of Total 10.6% 62.4% 27.0% 100.0%
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Transportation ▪ 3-159

The NFS road systems in the project area are used for recreation, hunting and fishing, and subsistence 

activities (USDA Forest Service 2009a). Most of the developed recreation areas on Mitkof Island are 

accessible to passenger vehicles on ML 3 roads, which are suitable for low clearance vehicles. The ML 3 

road system also provides access to dispersed recreation opportunities and is an important winter 

recreation resource for Petersburg residents. OHVs are mainly used on these roads for game retrieval in 

the fall (USDA Forest Service 2009a).

The Kake road system on Kupreanof Island provides access to developed recreation facilities, including

Big John Bay Cabin, Seal Point boat ramp and picnic area, Cathedral Falls Trail, Hamilton Trail, and 

Goose Lake Trail. The Portage road system accesses the Portage Bay cabin, although the primary access 

to the cabin is by boat. No developed facilities are accessed by the Tonka road system. The Tonka, 

Portage, and Kake road systems provide opportunities for road-related access to dispersed uses in 

undeveloped settings as well as opportunities involving wheeled vehicles. The Kake road system also 

gets substantial use from local residents and from visitors accessing the road system from the ferry 

(USDA Forest Service 2009a). 

Road Maintenance and Reconstruction

The maintenance and reconstruction of the existing NFS roads in the analysis area is an ongoing process 

that occurs on a periodic basis. The extent of this work depends largely on the volume of timber hauled 

and, to a lesser extent, on public use. Road maintenance consists of periodic repairs to an existing road 

surface, brushing, cleaning, and repairing drainage features. Maintenance can include reconditioning the 

original road template, grading the road surface, cleaning roadside ditches, and removing vegetation that 

may encroach upon the road or block vision. Grading and other maintenance generally take place more 

often on ML 3 roads than on ML 2 roads. ML 1 roads are left to a self-maintaining condition that 

requires little or no maintenance. These tasks are performed to keep the roads in the safe and useful 

condition for which they were designed. 

Normally this type of work is determined to fit the category of routine repair and maintenance of roads 

that do not individually, or cumulatively, have a significant effect on the quality of the human 

environment and may be categorically excluded (FSH 1909.15, 31.12). This work is done through 

separate service contracts to reduce the backlog of deferred maintenance, recondition roads to comply 

with best management practices, and maintain the existing infrastructure for National Forest management 

activities. Ongoing maintenance and reconditioning activities may coincide in time with implementation 

of the proposed project, but would not be part of the project. Reasonably foreseeable maintenance and 

reconditioning activities were considered in the cumulative effects analysis for this project.

Management of NFS roads is dynamic in the sense that roads are given both an operational maintenance 

level (OPML) and an objective maintenance level (OBML). The purpose of maintenance levels is to 

define the level of service provided by, and maintenance required for, a specific road or segment. OPML 

is the maintenance level currently assigned to a road considering current needs, road condition, budget 

constraints, and environmental concerns. It defines the level to which the road is currently being 

maintained and reflects the current condition. OBML is the maintenance level to be assigned at a future 

date considering future road management objectives, traffic needs, budget constraints, and environmental 

concerns. The OBML may be the same as, or higher or lower than, the OPML (FSH 7709.58, Sec. 12.3 –

Transportation System Maintenance Handbook). Roads can be changed from the OPML status to the 

designated OBML through a variety of activities. Road storage and re-designation of a road from a ML2 

to ML 1 is the most common activity. 
3 Environment and Effects

3-160 ▪ Chapter 3 – Transportation Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Non-National Forest System Roads

Parts of each of the action alternatives are located on non-NFS lands. This includes the final 5.1-milelong section that extends to Kake and is common to all alternatives (Figures 2-1 and 2-2). In addition, a 

1.4-mile-long section of Alternative 2 would be located underground along Sandy Beach Road in 

Petersburg. Alternative 4 follows an existing substation access road and a short (0.5-mile-long) section of 

the Mitkof Highway from the existing SEAPA substation south of Petersburg to the proposed Wrangell 

Narrows crossing location (Figure 2-2).

Marine Access Facilities 

A marine access facility (MAF) is an area used by humans to transfer items from land to saltwater or vice 

versa, that contains a structure such as a mooring buoy, dock, log transfer facility (LTF), boat ramp, or a 

combination of these. An LTF is used to transfer logs and timber products from land-based transportation 

forms to water-based transportation forms (or vice-versa). These facilities are often used for the 

movement of equipment needed for logging and road building. Three existing MAFs—the Portage Bay, 

Little Hamilton Bay, and Tonka LTFs—would likely be used for transport of construction personnel,

equipment, and materials and could be potentially used to transport logs cleared from the right-of-way. 

These LTFs may be summarized as follows: 

• The Portage Bay LTF is located on Portage Bay on the north side of Kupreanof Island and 

could be used by Alternatives 2 and 3. This LTF is accessed by an existing isolated NFS road 

system that does not connect to any community (Figure TRAN-1). 

• The Little Hamilton Bay LTF is located on Little Hamilton Island, which is connected to 

Kupreanof Island by a land bridge road. Little Hamilton Island is located in Hamilton Bay on the 

west side of Kupreanof Island (Figure TRAN-1). Logs could be hauled to the Little Hamilton 

Bay LTF for transportation by barge or raft under all three action alternatives. 

• The Tonka LTF is located on Forest Service road 6350 (FS 6350) on Kupreanof Island (see 

TRAN-1). Originally constructed as an A-frame in 1977, modifications have been made to this 

LTF through the years, including a low angle ramp installation in 1990, drainage improvements in 

2008, and various small boat float maintenance/modification tasks. The Tonka LTF was made 

larger and improved in 2013. The dock was replaced and a sort yard was added. This LTF could 

be used by Alternative 4. 

If any of these LTFs are used, the applicant will be issued a special use permit that will comply with the 

terms and conditions of the Forest Service’s existing Alaska Pollutant Discharge Elimination System 

(APDES) permit. 

Rock Quarries 

Reconstruction and maintenance of existing NFS roads in the analysis area would require a rock source, 

preferably within 2 miles of the site of road construction or maintenance. Most of the road network that is 

currently present on Kupreanof and Mitkof Islands consists of unimproved gravel/rock roads. As a result, rock 

quarries have been developed on the islands to supply the rock needed to construct these roads. Review of 

Forest Service GIS information indicates that existing rock pits and quarries are distributed along the existing 

NFS road systems that would be used by the proposed alternatives. There are no developed rock sources in the 

unroaded areas that would be crossed by one or more of the alternatives. Construction access to these areas 

would be via temporary shovel trails supported by the use of temporary matting panels in some wetland areas. 

Project-related demand for rock is expected to be limited in these areas.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Transportation ▪ 3-161

Environmental Effects 

Effects Common to All Alternatives

National Forest System Roads

The proposed transmission line design is a short span, road-side design that takes advantage of the 

existing NFS roads that would be followed by the action alternatives. The existing NFS roads that are 

part of the action alternatives include several isolated road systems on Kupreanof Island—the Tonka, 

Portage, and Kake road systems—that do not connect with one another (Figure TRAN-1). Existing NFS 

roads would be used to access portions of all three action alternatives. Trucks and other equipment would 

use these existing NFS roads to transport workers, materials, and machinery along the length of the line

where they exist. No new NFS roads or temporary roads would be constructed under any of the action 

alternatives. No new permanent bridges are proposed under of any of the alternatives.

Use of existing NFS roads during construction and operation of the proposed transmission line would not 

result in long-term negative effects to the NFS transportation system. There would be no change to the 

portions of the system that are open for public and other uses and the system would continue to be 

managed in accordance with the Petersburg Ranger District ATM Plan and Motor Use Vehicle Map 

(MVUM), under all alternatives.

Short-term effects may occur during construction in cases where construction crews and other users are 

using the roads simultaneously. However, in most locations traffic is typically very light due to the 

remote nature of the potentially affected road systems. Standard safety considerations, such as signing, 

should be sufficient to control traffic even during the peak use occurring during the fall hunting season. 

The Kake road system, which provides access to Big John Bay Cabin, Seal Point boat ramp and picnic 

area, Cathedral Falls Trail, Hamilton Trail, and Goose Lake Trail, receives heavier use than other the 

Tonka and Portage road systems. However, standard safety considerations are still expected to be 

sufficient to control traffic on this road system.

Non-National Forest System Roads

Parts of each of the action alternatives are located on non-NFS lands. This includes the final 5.1-milelong section that extends to Kake and is common to all alternatives (Figures 2-1 and 2-2). There would 

be no long-term effects to non-NFS roads under any of the proposed alternatives. Use of non-NFS roads 

for construction traffic would be limited to those roads necessary to gain access to the project corridor. 

Temporary traffic delays could potentially occur at localized spots, but would only occur while 

construction is taking place in adjacent or nearby areas. If construction vehicles cause temporary traffic 

blockages, traffic could be rerouted around affected intersections. Standard safety considerations are

expected to be sufficient to control traffic on non-NFS roads.

Temporary Access 

The action alternatives all cross areas where there are no existing roads. Surface access in these areas 

would be via shovel trails supported by temporary matting panels in some wetland areas. The miles of 

proposed shovel trail and temporary matting are identified by action alternative in Table TRAN-4. 

Helicopters would be used to support these activities, especially in areas without roads. Project 

construction activities potentially facilitated by helicopters may include delivery of construction laborers, 

equipment, and materials to intermittent material drop locations or specific pole sites; structure 

placement; hardware installation; and wire stringing operations. 
3 Environment and Effects

3-162 ▪ Chapter 3 – Transportation Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Table TRAN-4. Temporary Shovel Trails and Helicopter Placement

Characteristic

Alternative

2

(Proposed Action) 3 4

Total Unroaded Length (miles) 23.6 23.6 13.8

 - Length of Shovel Trails (miles) 21.6 21.6 6.5

 - Length of Temporary Matting (miles) 2.0 2.0 7.3

Length of Temporary Access Spurs (miles) 7.6 7.6 6.2

Number of Helicopter Pads 83 83 47

Shovel Trails and Temporary Matting Panels

Shovel trails would be temporary and for short-term use during proposed project construction only and 

would be decommissioned following construction. Shovel trails would be up to 16 feet wide. Shovel 

trails would be used in wetland areas in locations where native materials (logs and slash) removed during 

right-of-way clearing are available for use as an underlayment to allow for the passage of wide tracked 

equipment. Temporary matting panels would be installed in wetland areas where sufficient native 

materials are not available. The proposed temporary matting panels would likely be similar to the high 

density polyethylene mats shown in Figure 2-8 (in Chapter 2). These mats are 8 feet by 14 feet wide, 

weigh approximately 1,050 pounds each, and can be configured to form a 7-foot-wide or a 13-foot-wide 

useable surface. 

Public motorized traffic on temporary shovel trails proposed under this project would be prohibited. This 

prohibition would include OHVs. Non-motorized (i.e. bicycles, pedestrians, etc.) use during and after 

project construction would also be discouraged. 

Temporary Access Spurs

In locations where the proposed transmission line follows existing NFS roads, the transmission structures 

would be located adjacent to the road to the extent possible, but would not be immediately adjacent to the 

roads in all locations due to the ruggedness of the terrain and other environmental constraints. Roads are 

typically designed to follow natural contours to reduce the steepness of the road surface and, as a result,

tend to wind through areas of steep terrain. Transmission lines are designed to follow straight lines as 

much as possible and minimize the number of structures and angles. Transmission lines are able to span 

between ridges and across terrain where construction may be difficult, as well as across environmentally 

sensitive areas. In locations where the proposed structures would be located off the road by more than 20 

feet, an access work pad would be created by extending the road fill to the site. Where the distance from 

the road makes this impractical, temporary matting would be used to gain access to the site during 

construction. These temporary spurs, consisting of access work pads and/or temporary matting, are 

referred to as “temporary access spurs” in this EIS. Like shovel trails, temporary access spurs are 

assumed to be up to 16 feet wide.

Helicopter Pads 

Helicopters would be used for construction along portions of all three action alternatives. Use of 

helicopters would require the installation of temporary helicopter pads along the proposed right-of-way 

for the selected alternative. Upon completion, these pads would, over time be replaced with permanent 

helipads. These helipads would be approximately 16 feet by 16 feet and made of aluminum, with a fourto six-leg foundation support system. The pads would be located within the proposed right-of-way, which 

would be cleared. The four- to six-leg support system would be the only parts of the pad in direct contact 

with the ground. Disturbance associated with these legs would be approximately 54 square feet or 0.01 

acre per pad. Pads would be installed every 0.25 mile along the portions of the alternative where there are 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Transportation ▪ 3-163

no existing roads. The permanent pads would be painted to blend in with the surrounding environment. 

Paint colors would be approved by the Forest Service.

Rock Quarries

Reconstruction and maintenance of existing NFS roads in the analysis area would require a rock source, 

preferably within 2 miles of the site of road construction or maintenance. Crushed rock may also be 

needed in some locations where temporary access spurs involve extending existing road fill. Existing 

developed rock sources are distributed along the existing NFS road systems and are expected to provide 

the necessary rock. Project-related demand for rock is expected to be limited in unroaded areas.

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects 

Alternative 1 is the no action alternative and is analyzed to provide a baseline for evaluation of the 

impacts associated with the action alternatives. Under this alternative, the Forest Service would not 

provide authorization for the proposed project and a new electric transmission line would not be built. 

The project would not use existing transportation facilities or require the development of new temporary

(shovel trails and temporary access spurs) or permanent (helicopter pads) transportation infrastructure.

Cumulative Effects 

There are several projects in the vicinity of the proposed project that are either presently occurring or are 

reasonably foreseeable. These projects are described at the beginning of this chapter and include timber 

harvesting, pre-commercial and commercial thinning, road improvement/building, and wildlife habitat 

restoration. The proposed project would not be approved or built under this alternative and would, 

therefore, not contribute cumulatively to the effects of other reasonably foreseeable projects in the 

analysis area.

Alternative 2 – Proposed Action

Direct and Indirect Effects 

National Forest System Roads

Under Alternative 2, the proposed project would closely follow approximately 27.9 miles of existing NFS 

roads that would be used for construction access, as well as access for operation and maintenance (Table 

TRAN-5). During construction, trucks and other equipment would use these existing NFS roads to 

Table TRAN-5. NFS Roads Followed by Alternatives 2 and 3

Road System

Road 

Number Road Name Miles ML1/ Lanes Road Surface

Portage 6319 Goose Creek 4.8 2 Single Pit run shot rock

Portage 6031 Goose Cove 5.7 2 Single Pit run shot rock

Portage Subtotal 10.5

Kake 6030 Goose Lake 12.3 3 Single Crushed aggregate or gravel surface

Kake 6040 Kake Road 5.1 3 Single Crushed aggregate or gravel surface

Kake Subtotal 17.4

Grand Total 27.9

Notes:

ML = maintenance level

1/ OPML and OBML are the same for each section of road, with the exception of Road 6040, which has an OPML of 3 and an 

OBML of 5.
3 Environment and Effects

3-164 ▪ Chapter 3 – Transportation Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

transport workers, materials, and machinery along the length of the line. This alternative would follow 

10.5 miles of ML 2 roads that are part of the Portage road system. Alternative 2 would also follow 17.4 

miles of ML 3 roads that are part of the Kake road system (Table TRAN-5). The Portage and Kake road 

systems are not connected with one another (Figure TRAN-1).

The following paragraphs provide an overview of the existing NFS road that would be followed by 

Alternatives 2 and 3:

• Road 6319 (Goose Creek). The proposed transmission line would follow 4.8 miles of this road 

under Alternatives 2 and 3 (Table TRAN-5). Road 6319 is a single-lane, ML 2 road (suitable for 

high-clearance vehicles) with a pit run shot rock surface for 4.8 miles of this distance. Shovel 

trail would be used between this road and where it connects to the Portage road system. The road 

is classified by the Forest Service as a collector road in long-term service and is part of the 

Portage road system.

• Road 6031 (Goose Cove). The proposed transmission line would follow 5.7 miles of this road 

under Alternatives 2 and 3 (Table TRAN-5). Road 6031 is a single-lane, ML 2 road (suitable for 

high clearance vehicles) with a pit run shot rock surface. This road is part of the Portage road 

system and classified by the Forest Service as a collector road in long-term service.

• Road 6030 (Goose Lake). The proposed transmission line would follow 12.3 miles of this road 

under Alternatives 2 and 3 (Table TRAN-5). Road 6030 is a single-lane, ML 3 road (suitable for 

passenger cars) with a crushed aggregate or gravel surface. This road is part of the Kake road 

system and classified by the Forest Service as a collector road in long-term service.

• Road 6040 (Kake Road). The proposed transmission line would follow 5.1 miles of this road 

under Alternatives 2 and 3 (Table TRAN-5). Road 6040 is a single lane, ML 3 road (suitable for 

passenger cars) with a crushed aggregate or gravel surface. This road is part of the Kake road 

system and classified by the Forest Service as an arterial in long-term service. The OPML for 

this road is ML 3 as noted; the OPML is ML5 (high degree of user comfort).

Existing bridges that would be used by Alternative 2 are identified in Table TRAN-6. 

Table TRAN-6. Existing Bridges That Would Be Used by Alternatives 2 and 3

Road Alternative 

Milepost1/ Name Operational Status

Year 

Built

Bridge

Material

Length of Bridge

(feet)

6319 20.4 Planned Scott Peak Timber 

Sale na Planned na na

6319 22.6 Muskeg Creek on Remote 

System Open 1981 Steel 51

6319 23.2 On Remote System Open 1981 Steel 41

6031 25.8 Portage Creek on Remote 

System Open 1996 Steel 91

6030 42.3 Rainbow Creek Open 1984 Steel 60

6030 43.3 Upper Hamilton River Open 1983 Steel 80

6030 47.6 Cathedral Falls Creek Open 1983 Steel 120

6040 53.9 Slo Duck Creek Open 2008 Concrete, 

Prestressed 80

6040 57.4 Jenny Creek na na na na

Notes:

na = not available

1/ The milepost counts start at the existing SEAPA Substation near Petersburg and include water crossing miles.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Transportation ▪ 3-165

Non-National Forest System Roads

The proposed transmission line would also follow existing non-NFS roads under Alternative 2, including 

the final 5.1-mile-long section that extends across non-NFS land to Kake (Figure 2-1). This section of 

road continues from FR 6040 and consists of 3.6 miles of road managed by BLM and 1.5 miles managed 

by the State of Alaska. The BLM-managed portion has a crushed aggregate or gravel surface; the state 

part has a pit run shot rock surface. Both parts are single lane.

This alternative would also be located along 0.5 mile of Garbage Dump Hill Road, a double-lane private 

road south of Petersburg. Garbage Dump Hill Road has a crushed aggregate or gravel surface. 

In addition, a 1.4-mile-long section of Alternative 2 would be located underground along Sandy Beach 

Road in Petersburg. The three phase conductors of the proposed transmission line would be enclosed in a 

single HDPE conduit approximately 8 inches in diameter. The conduit would be placed in a trench, 

approximately 4 feet deep and 3 feet wide, along the length of the placement, and the rest of the trench 

would be backfilled. Parts of this road may need to be closed while construction is taking place in this 

location, but these closures would be short term and limited to localized spots, and local residents would 

be notified in advance of necessary closures.

Temporary Access

Three sections of Alternative 2 do not follow existing roads (Figure 2-1). 

• The first section extends across private land south of the Petersburg Airport. 

• The second section extends north along the shoreline of Kupreanof Island from the point where 

the proposed transmission line comes ashore near Prolewy Point until it meets FR 6319 inland. 

• The third section crosses the unroaded section of NFS lands west of Portage Bay between the 

existing Portage and Kake road systems. 

These three sections combined account for 23.6 miles (41 percent) of the overhead portion of the route. 

Construction access to these areas would be via shovel trails supported by temporary matting panels. 

Shovel trails would be used for an estimated 21.6 miles, with temporary matting used for 2.0 miles (Table 

TRAN-4). Figure 2-1 shows where existing roads, shovel trails, and temporary matting would be used 

during construction. Helicopters would be used to support construction activities, especially in areas 

without roads. Helicopter pads would be located along the sections of the alternative that are not located 

adjacent to an existing road. These pads would be spaced approximately every 0.25 mile. An estimated 

83 permanent helicopter pads would be developed as part of this alternative. In addition, where the 

proposed transmission line follows existing roads, an estimated 7.6 miles of temporary access spurs would be 

required to access the proposed transmission line structure locations (Table TRAN-4). 

Marine Access

Under Alternative 2, two existing MAFs—the Portage Bay and Little Hamilton Bay LTFs—would likely 

be used for transport of construction personnel, equipment, and materials and could be potentially used to 

transport logs cleared from the right-of-way (Figure 2-1). 

Cumulative Effects 

Past timber harvest in the analysis has resulted in a total of 231 miles of existing NFS roads in the 

transportation analysis area (Table TRAN-3). There are also several projects in the vicinity of the 

proposed project that are either presently occurring or are reasonably foreseeable. These projects include 

timber harvesting, pre-commercial and commercial thinning, road improvement/building, and wildlife 

habitat restoration. No new temporary or permanent roads are proposed on NFS lands under Alternative 

2 and, therefore, this alternative is not expected to cumulatively add to the existing NFS road systems in 
3 Environment and Effects

3-166 ▪ Chapter 3 – Transportation Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

the analysis area. Although some improvements may be required to the existing NFS roads that would be 

used as part of this project, these improvements would be consistent with the current ML designations of 

the affected roads and would not affect the existing ATM Plan for these roads.

Alternative 3 – Northern Route with Submarine Cable

Direct and Indirect Effects 

National Forest System Roads

Under Alternative 3, the proposed project would closely follow approximately 27.9 miles of existing NFS 

roads that would be used for construction access, as well as access for operation and maintenance (Table 

TRAN-5). During construction, trucks and other equipment would use these existing NFS roads to 

transport workers, materials, and machinery along the length of the line. This alternative would follow 

10.5 miles of ML 2 roads that are part of the Portage road system. Alternative 3 would also follow 17.4 

miles of ML 3 roads that are part of the Kake road system (Table TRAN-5). This alternative would use 

the same roads as Alternative 2. Detailed information is provided for these roads in the Alternative 2 

section, above. 

Existing bridges that would be used by Alternative 3 are identified in Table TRAN-6. 

Non-National Forest System Roads

The proposed transmission line would also follow existing non-NFS roads under Alternative 3, 

specifically the final 5.1-mile-long section that extends across non-NFS land to Kake (Figure 2-1). This 

section of road continues from FR 6040 and consists of 3.6 miles of road managed by BLM and 1.5 miles 

managed by the State of Alaska. The BLM-managed portion has a crushed aggregate or gravel surface; 

the state part has a pit run shot rock surface. Both parts are single lane.

This alternative would also be located along 0.5 mile of Garbage Dump Hill Road, a double-lane private 

road south of Petersburg. Garbage Dump Hill Road has a crushed aggregate or gravel surface. 

Temporary Access

As with Alternative 2, three sections of Alternative 3 do not follow existing roads (Figure 2-1). 

• The first section extends across private land south of the Petersburg Airport. 

• The second section extends north along the shoreline of Kupreanof Island from the point where 

the proposed transmission line comes ashore near Prolewy Point until it meets FR 6319 inland. 

• The third section crosses the unroaded section of NFS lands west of Portage Bay between the 

existing Portage and Kake road systems. 

Surface construction access in these areas would be via shovel trails supported by temporary matting 

panels in some wetland areas. A total of 21.6 miles of temporary shovel trails would be constructed in 

these sections, with approximately 2 miles of temporary matting panels also installed (Table TRAN-4, 

Figure 2-1). As described above, the proposed shovel trails and temporary matting would be temporary 

and for short-term use during project construction only. All shovel trails would be decommissioned 

following construction, and all temporary matting panels would be removed. In addition, where the 

proposed transmission line follows existing roads, an estimated 7.6 miles of temporary access spurs 

would be required to access the proposed transmission line structure locations. An estimated 83

permanent helicopter pads would be developed as part of this alternative (Table TRAN-4).
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Transportation ▪ 3-167

Marine Access

Under Alternative 3, two existing MAFs—the Portage Bay and Little Hamilton Bay LTFs—would likely 

be used for transport of construction personnel, equipment, and materials and could be potentially used to 

transport logs cleared from the right-of-way (Figure 2-1). 

Cumulative Effects 

Past timber harvest in the analysis has resulted in a total of 231 miles of existing NFS roads in the 

transportation analysis area (Table TRAN-3). There are also several projects in the vicinity of the 

proposed project that are either presently occurring or are reasonably foreseeable. These projects include 

timber harvesting, pre-commercial and commercial thinning, road improvement/building, and wildlife 

habitat restoration. No new temporary or permanent roads are proposed on NFS lands under Alternative 

3 and, therefore, this alternative is not expected to cumulatively add to the existing NFS road systems in 

the analysis area. Although some improvements may be required to the existing NFS roads that would be 

used as part of this project, these improvements would be consistent with the current ML designations of 

the affected roads and would not affect the existing ATM Plan for these roads.

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route

Direct and Indirect Effects 

National Forest System Roads

Under Alternative 4, the proposed project would closely follow approximately 30.5 miles of existing NFS 

roads that would be used for construction access, as well as access for operation and maintenance (Table 

TRAN-7). During construction, trucks and other equipment would use these existing NFS roads to 

transport workers, materials, and machinery along the length of the line. This alternative would follow 

9.5 miles of FR 6350, which is part of the Tonka road system. Alternative 4 would also follow 21.0 miles 

of existing roads (FR 45808, 6328, 6314, and 6040) that are part of the Kake road system (Table TRAN7). The Tonka and Kake road systems are not connected with one another (Figure TRAN-1).

Table TRAN-7. NFS Roads Followed by Alternative 4

Road System

Road 

Number Road Name Miles ML1/ Lanes Road Surface

Tonka 6350 Mitchell-Tonka 6.2 2 Single Pit run shot rock

Tonka 6350 Mitchell-Tonka 3.3 2 Single Crushed aggregate or gravel 

Tonka Subtotal 9.5

Kake 45808 Screwdriver 2.7 2 Single Pit run shot rock

Kake 6328 Jasper High 6.4 3 Single Crushed aggregate or gravel 

Kake 6314 Keku Strait 3.6 3 Single Crushed aggregate or gravel 

Kake 6040 Kake Road 8.2 3 Single Crushed aggregate or gravel 

Kake Subtotal 21.0

Grand Total 30.5

Notes:

ML = maintenance level

1/ OPML and OBML are the same for each section of road, with the exception of Road 6040, which has an OPML of 3 and an 

OBML of 5.

The following paragraphs provide an overview of the existing NFS roads that would be followed by 

Alternative 4:

• Road 6350 (Mitchell-Tonka). The proposed transmission line would follow 9.5 miles of this 

road under Alternative 4 (Table TRAN-7). Road 6350 is a single-lane, ML 2 road (suitable for 
3 Environment and Effects

3-168 ▪ Chapter 3 – Transportation Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

high clearance vehicles) for this entire length. About two-thirds of this length (6.2 miles) has a pit 

run shot rock surface; the remaining 3.3 miles has a crushed aggregate or gravel surface. This 

road is part of the Tonka road system and classified by the Forest Service as a collector road in 

long-term service.

• Road 45808 (Screwdriver). The proposed transmission line would follow 2.7 miles of this road 

under Alternative 4 (Table TRAN-7). Road 45808 is a single lane, ML 2 road (suitable for high 

clearance vehicles) road with a pit run shot rock surface. Shovel trail would be used past this 

road. This road is part of the Kake road system and classified by the Forest Service as a local 

road in long-term service.

• Road 6328 (Jasper High). The proposed transmission line would follow 6.4 miles of this road 

under Alternative 4 (Table TRAN-7). Road 6328 is a single-lane, ML 3 road (suitable for 

passenger cars) with a crushed aggregate or gravel surface. This road is part of the Kake road 

system and classified by the Forest Service as a collector road in intermittent service.

• Road 6314 (Keku Strait). The proposed transmission line would follow 3.6 miles of this road 

under Alternative 4 (Table TRAN-7). Road 6314 is a single-lane, ML 3 road (suitable for 

passenger cars) with a pit run shot rock surface. This road is part of the Kake road system and 

classified by the Forest Service as a collector road in intermittent service.

• Road 6040 (Kake Road). The proposed transmission line would follow 8.2 miles of this road 

under Alternative 4 (Table TRAN-7). Road 6040 is a single-lane, ML 3 road (suitable for 

passenger cars) with a crushed aggregate or gravel surface. This road is part of the Kake road 

system and classified by the Forest Service as an arterial in long-term service. The OPML for 

this road is ML3 as noted; the OPML is ML 5 (high degree of user comfort).

Existing bridges that would be used by Alternative 4 are identified in Table TRAN-8. 

Table TRAN-8. Existing Bridges That Would Be Used by Alternative 4

Road

Alternative 

Milepost1/ Name

Operational 

Status

Year 

Built

Bridge

Material

Length of 

Bridge 

6350 1.5 Float Plane Dock Tonka 

Mountain Closed na na na

6350 1.5 LTF Tonka Mountain Closed na na na

6350 3.7 Mitchell Creek Open 1980 Timber 77

6350 6.2 Halfway Creek Open 1976 Timber 58

6350 7.4 Big R 3820 Spruce Creek Open 2004 Steel 70

45808 25.8 Kake Open 1998 Steel 71

45808 27.6 Kake Open 1998 Steel 61

6328 33.8 Upper Coffee Creek Open 1997 Steel 51

6314 37.6 Hamilton River Open 1978 Steel 195

6040 41.0 Cathedral Falls Open 1978 Steel 109

6040 45.9 Slo Duck Creek Open 2008 Concrete, 

Prestressed 80

6040 49.4 Jenny Creek na na na na

Notes:

na = not available

1/ The milepost counts start at the Proposed Tap/Switchyard (Center-South route) and include the water crossing miles.

Non-National Forest System Roads

The proposed transmission line would also follow existing non-NFS roads under Alternative 4, including 

the final 5.1-mile-long section that extends across non-NFS land to Kake (Figure 2-2). Like Alternatives 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Transportation ▪ 3-169

2 and 3, the final 5.1-mile-long section that extends across non-NFS land to Kake would follow existing 

roads. This section of road continues from FR 6040 and consists of 3.6 miles of road managed by BLM 

and 1.5 miles managed by the State of Alaska. The BLM-managed portion has a crushed aggregate or 

gravel surface; the state part has a pit run shot rock surface. Both parts are single lane.

Alternative 4 also follows an existing substation access road and a short (0.9-mile-long) section of the 

Mitkof Highway from the existing SEAPA substation south of Petersburg to the proposed Wrangell 

Narrows crossing location (Figure 4). The Mitkof Highway is a three-lane road with a bituminous surface 

treatment.

Temporary Access

One section of Alternative 4 does not follow existing roads (Figure 2-2). This section of the proposed 

transmission line extends approximately 13.8 miles between the existing Tonka and Kake road systems, 

accounting for 27 percent of the overhead portion of the alternative route (Table TRAN-4, Figure 2-2). 

Surface access for construction along this portion of the route would be via shovel trails supported by 

temporary matting panels. Shovel trails would be used for an estimated 6.5 miles, with temporary 

matting panels used for 7.3 miles (Table TRAN-4). Figure 2-2 shows where existing roads, shovel trails, 

and temporary matting would be used during construction. Helicopters would be used to support 

construction activities, especially in areas without roads. Helicopter pads would be located along the 13.8

miles of the alternative that are not located adjacent to an existing road. These pads would be spaced 

approximately every 0.25 mile. In addition, where the proposed transmission line parallels existing roads, 

an estimated 6.2 miles of temporary access spurs would be required to access the proposed transmission 

line structure locations (Table TRAN-4). 

Marine Access

Under Alternative 4, two existing LTFs—the Tonka and Little Hamilton Bay LTFs—would likely be 

used for transport of construction personnel, equipment, and materials and could be potentially used to 

transport logs cleared from the right-of-way (Figure 2-2). 

Cumulative Effects 

Past timber harvest in the analysis has resulted in a total of 231 miles of existing NFS roads in the 

transportation analysis area (Table TRAN-3). There are also several projects in the vicinity of the 

proposed project that are either presently occurring or are reasonably foreseeable. These projects include 

timber harvesting, pre-commercial and commercial thinning, road improvement/building, and wildlife 

habitat restoration. No new temporary or permanent roads are proposed on NFS lands under Alternative 

3 and, therefore, this alternative is not expected to cumulatively add to the existing NFS road systems in 

the analysis area. Although some improvements may be required to the existing NFS roads that would be 

used as part of this project, these improvements would be consistent with the current ML designations of 

the affected roads and would not affect the existing ATM Plan for these roads. 

It is possible that construction of parts of this alternative could coincide in time and space with the Tonka 

Timber Sale. If this were to occur, the applicant would coordinate with the Forest Service and the 

operator harvesting the timber to ensure that the timber operator is able to harvest the Tonka units in 

accordance with the applicable purchase agreement with the Forest Service.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-170 ▪ Chapter 3 – Scenery Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Scenery

Introduction 

This section provides an assessment of the current condition of the project area and the potential effects of 

implementing the proposed action and the alternatives on scenic resources. Scenery resource direction for 

the project area is contained in the 2008 Forest Plan and described in the scenery Forest-wide standards 

and guidelines (Chapter 4) for each specific management prescription or LUD (Chapter 3). The analysis 

concentrates on the potential effects associated with construction and operation of the proposed 

transmission line, as well as the potential impacts of not proceeding with the project (i.e., the no action 

alternative).

Analysis Area and Methodology

The analysis area for direct, indirect, and cumulative effects to scenic resources is the KPI project area. 

Forest-wide standards and guidelines for scenery apply and provide for scenic resource protection across 

the Forest (USDA Forest Service 2008a, chapter 4). The degree of acceptable alteration to the landscape 

is defined in terms of Scenic Integrity Objectives (SIOs). The objectives are based on the desired future 

condition of each LUD and the degree of visibility of these landscapes from identified VPRs and use 

areas listed in Appendix F of the 2008 Forest Plan. 

The scenery analysis considers the potential effects from four main categories of project actions: 1) 

structure installation, 2) new temporary shovel trails and temporary matting panels, 3) temporary access 

spurs, and 4) vegetation clearing. This analysis:

• Evaluates whether the SIOs established by the Forest Plan would be met;

• Estimates the amount and type of disturbance by scenic attractiveness class, distance zone based 

on the potentially affected VPRs, and Existing Scenic Integrity (ESI);

• Evaluates potential visual impacts from a series of viewpoints selected to represent the VPRs 

from which a viewer would theoretically have views of parts of the proposed alternatives;

• Evaluates the potential cumulative effects on scenery in conjunction with past, present, and 

reasonably foreseeable future projects; and

• Provides recommendations for mitigation measures designed to help avoid and minimize effects 

to scenic resources.

For each project alternative, a GIS-based viewshed analysis was used to identify the VPRs from which a 

viewer would theoretically have uninterrupted views of parts of the proposed transmission facilities. 

These areas were initially defined by identifying those areas where views of the proposed facilities would 

be blocked by intervening topography or vegetation, with the analysis subsequently focusing on those 

areas where potential views were not blocked by topography or vegetation. Vegetation heights ranged 

from 20 to about 174 feet (6 to 53 meters) tall based on an estimated distribution of tree size density.

The VPRs with theoretically uninterrupted views identified through this process were then reviewed in 

conjunction with other sources of information including topographic maps, aerial photography, and 

reconnaissance level field review. Based on this review, a series of viewpoints were selected to represent 

the potentially affected VPRs. Viewshed analyses were then run from each of these viewpoints. These 

subsequent viewshed analyses were used to identify the distance of the proposed facilities from the 

viewpoint in terms of four distance zones: foreground, middleground, background, and seldom seen. 

These viewshed analyses were also used to identify the number of structures that would theoretically be 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Scenery ▪ 3-171

visible from the selected viewpoints, as well as the distance to the closest structure. In most cases, 

structures located in the background or seldom seen distance zones, greater than 5 miles from the 

viewpoint would be difficult to detect. The viewshed analyses employed different average viewer height 

depending on the type of VPR. These heights varied by the type of VPR, ranging from 5 feet to 60 feet 

above the ground or water surface (Tetra Tech 2012).

Affected Environment 

The Scenery analysis area encompasses approximately 493,806 acres, located on Kupreanof Island and 

portions on Mitkof Island in Southeast Alaska. This total includes 453,980 acres of NFS lands, with the 

remaining lands (39,826 acres) owned and managed by the Alaska DNR, the Sealaska Corporation, Kake 

Tribal Corporation, the city of Kake, and Petersburg Borough. The Tongass National Forest, including 

Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands, is covered primarily by temperate rainforest consisting of Sitka spruce and 

western hemlock, with lesser amounts of mountain hemlock, Alaska yellow-cedar, and lodgepole pine. 

Red alder occupies riparian areas and other sites where bare mineral soils are exposed. The majority of 

the analysis area is occupied by old-growth forests and harvested timber areas, intermixed with peatland, 

muskeg, riparian plant communities, and beach habitat that are largely unaltered. Regeneration is rapid 

and most of the logged areas are covered by dense stands of young growth. Topography in the analysis 

area ranges from low, flat marshes to hills and mountains ranging from 1,000 feet to nearly 4,000 feet 

(Portage Mountain) above mean sea level. 

Landscape Character

The Tongass National Forest is divided into 11 geographic areas defined as landscape character types. 

Landscape character types are large geographic areas that have general or distinguishing visual 

characteristics that, when combined with other physical, biological, and cultural attributes, help define an 

area’s meaning of “place”. The analysis area includes parts of two landscape character types: the 

Kupreanof Lowlands and Inside Passage Fjordlands. The portion of the analysis area west of Duncan 

Canal and Portage Bay falls within the Kupreanof Lowlands landscape character type; the area to the east, 

including the Lindenberg Peninsula and Mitkof Island, is located within the Inside Passage Fjordlands 

landscape character type (USDA Forest Service 2005b).

The Kupreanof Lowlands landscape character type consists of rolling terrain and lowlands, with 

numerous rocky islands, shorelines, and rock reefs evident in the intricate network of waterways within 

this landscape type. Spruce and hemlock forest covers much of the area, with significant areas of 

muskeg-lodgepole pine association also present. Timber harvest has occurred in many parts of the area 

during the last 30 years. Tidal meadows are found along many of the small waterways, particularly at the 

heads of the bays. This landscape character type has relatively low vegetation variety, except in estuarine 

areas. Much of the area around Kake is privately owned and buildings and roads are prevalent (USDA 

Forest Service 2005b).

The Inside Passage Fjordlands is a complex landscape type consisting primarily of tall rounded 

mountains, long broad ridges, deep fiords, and long connected inland waterways. The landscape type 

contains many glacially modified landforms including hanging valleys with steep-sided slopes, broad Ushaped valleys, and coastal lowlands. The islands and land masses that characterize this landscape 

character type are connected by a network of broad waterways that serve as major transportation routes. 

Most of the lower rounded mountain areas support productive western hemlock and Sitka spruce forests. 

Many portions of these forests have been harvested over the past 50 years or more and now support young 

second-growth forests. Forested wetlands and emergent wetlands are common. Roads, buildings, and 

other structures are very visible in and around Petersburg (USDA Forest Service 2005b).
3 Environment and Effects 

3-172 ▪ Chapter 3 – Scenery Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Scenic Attractiveness

Scenic attractiveness is used by the Forest Service as the primary indicator of the intrinsic beauty of a 

landscape and the positive responses it evokes in people. This characterization helps determine 

landscapes that are important for scenic beauty, as well as those that are of lesser value, based on 

commonly held perceptions of the beauty of landform, vegetation pattern, composition, surface water 

characteristics, and land use patterns and cultural features (USDA Forest Service 2005b). 

The Forest Service’s Scenery Management System (SMS) provides a process that rates the inherent 

scenic attractiveness based on the values listed above as either Class A - Distinctive, B - Typical, or C -

Indistinctive. Class A areas are those where landform, vegetation patterns, water characteristics, and 

cultural features combine to provide unusual, unique, or outstanding scenic quality. Class B areas consist 

of the more frequently found features in the landscape character type. Class C areas generally have weak 

or missing attributes that contribute to scenic quality. The majority of land within the analysis area is 

either classified as Indistinctive (56 percent) or Typical (31 percent), with about 3 percent classified as 

Distinctive. 

Visual Priority Routes

Appendix F of the Forest Plan identifies routes and public use areas from which scenery is to be 

emphasized for each Ranger District. They include popular roads people drive, cabins or recreation areas 

that people use, and trails on which they hike or canoe. They can also be cruise ship, ferry boat, personal 

watercraft routes that are frequently traveled, or popular saltwater anchorages. VPRs specific to the 

Petersburg Ranger District are identified on pages F-3 and F-4 of Appendix F to the Forest Plan (USDA 

Forest Service 2008a). 

There are 46 VPRs within the analysis area. Some of these VPRs are included for more than one reason 

and show up more than once in the following list, which is organized by VPR type. Wrangell Narrows, 

for example, is identified as both an Alaska Marine Highway Route and a Tour Ship Route. Papke’s 

Landing (marked with an asterisk) is not an official VPR in the Forest Plan; however, it has been 

identified by the Forest Service as a popular location used by residents in the area. 

• Communities Kake

Kupreanof

Petersburg

• Alaska Marine Highway Routes Wrangell Narrows

Frederick Sound 

• Tour Ship Routes Wrangell Narrows

Frederick Sound

• Sm. Boat & Mid-size Tour Boat Routes Keku Strait

Towers Arm

Duncan Canal to Salt Chuck

Petersburg Creek Estuary
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• Saltwater Use Areas Beacon Point

Duncan Canal to Indian Point

Frederick Point

Hamilton Creek Estuary

Portage Bay

Mouth of Narrows

Mouth of Blind Sough 

• Boat Anchorages Castle Islands

Portage Bay

Papke’s Landing (boat launch)*

• Public Use Roads Kake to Seal Point Road

Mitkof State Highway (Highway 7)

Forest Road 6235 Three Lakes Loop

• Dispersed Recreation Areas Goose Lake

Hamilton Creek

Petersburg Creek

Petersburg Lake

• Recommended Wild, Scenic, & Recreational 

Rivers

Petersburg Creek

• Developed Recreation Areas Frenchy Ridge Shelter

Twin Creek Shelter

• Forest Service Recreation Cabins Big John Bay

Breiland Slough

Castle Flats

Castle River

Petersburg Lake

Portage Bay

Ravens Roost

Salt Chuck East

Towers Arm

West Point

• Hiking Trails Colp Lake Trail (#461)

Castle River Trail (#459)

Goose Lake Trail (#462)

Hamilton Creek Trail (#463)

Big John Bay Trail (#465)

Cathedral Falls Trail (#467)

Petersburg Lake Trail (#534)

Portage Mtn. Loop Trail (#535)

Petersburg Mountain Trail (#585)

Upper Twin Ski Trail (#605)

Twin Ridge Ski Trail (#606)

Raven Trail (#607)

A GIS-based viewshed analysis prepared for the proposed project indicated that none of the action 

alternatives would be visible from 14 of the VPRs identified above. The analysis also identified one 

additional VPR, Beecher Pass State Marine Park, that is located outside of the analysis area VCU 

boundaries, but could be potentially affected by the proposed project.
3 Environment and Effects 

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Based on GIS analysis, there are 36 VPRs with potential viewpoints, as well as Papke’s Landing:

• Communities Kake

Kupreanof

Petersburg

• Alaska Marine Highway Routes/Tour Ship 

Routes

Frederick Sound

Wrangell Narrows

• Sm. Boat & Mid-size Tour Boat Routes Keku Strait

Petersburg Creek Estuary

Towers Arm

Duncan Canal to Salt Chuck

• Saltwater Use Areas Beacon Point

Duncan Canal to Indian Point

Mouth of Narrows

Frederick Point

Portage Bay

Hamilton Creek Estuary

• Boat Anchorages Castle Islands

Papke’s Landing (boat launch)*

Portage Bay

• Public Use Roads Kake to Seal Point Road

Mitkof State Highway (Highway 7)

Forest Road 6235 Three Lakes Loop

• Dispersed Recreation Areas Hamilton Creek

Goose Lake

Petersburg Creek

• State Marine Park Beecher Pass

• Forest Service Recreation Cabins Big John Bay

Castle Flats

Portage Bay

Towers Arm

West Point

• Hiking Trails Big John Bay Trail (#465)

Colp Lake Trail (#461)

Goose Lake Trail (#462)

Portage Mtn. Loop Trail (#535)

Petersburg Lake Trail (#534)

Petersburg Mountain Trail (#585)

Raven Trail (#607)

These VPRs were reviewed in conjunction with other sources of information including topographic maps, 

aerial photography, and reconnaissance level field review, and a series of viewpoints were selected to 

represent the potentially affected VPRs (Figure SCEN-1). These viewpoints are used as a basis for 

evaluation of the visual consequences of the proposed alternatives. 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Scenery ▪ 3-175

Visibility and Distance Zones

The SIO for a given area is determined by the LUD assigned to that area, its visibility (i.e., seen vs. not

seen areas), and distance zones (i.e., foreground, middleground, and background). Distance zones are 

mapped based on distance from VPRs and other key features, such as other recreation sites, roads, and 

trails. Distance zones are defined in the Forest Plan as follows:

• Foreground: The part of the visible landscape located up to 0.5 mile from the viewer. 

• Middleground: The visible portion of the landscape located from 0.5 mile to 5 miles from the 

viewer. 

• Background: The distant part of the visible landscape located from 5 to 15 miles from the 

viewer. 

• Seldom Seen: The part of the landscape more than 15 miles from a VPR or is not visible to the 

viewer from VPRs, although they may be viewed from other areas. 

These zones were mapped for the entire forest as part of the planning process that supported the 2008 

Forest Plan Revision. Approximately 10 percent of the NFS lands in the analysis area are allocated to 

Foreground, with 45 percent allocated to Middleground, 2 percent to Background, and 43 percent to 

Seldom Seen.

Scenic Integrity Objectives (SIO)

The Forest Service developed and implemented the Visual Management System (VMS) in 1974 (USDA 

Forest Service 1974). This system was replaced by the newer (but similar) SMS in 1995. While the 

overall visual resource framework is essentially the same between the two systems, the terminology 

within the SMS has been modified slightly and when combined with VMS incorporates assessment of 

biological, physical, and social/cultural resources within a geographic area. Under this new system, 

Scenic Integrity Objective or SIO is the term used to describe the visual condition of the landscape. The 

SIO is also used to describe the degree of acceptable alteration of the characteristic landscape, and is 

assigned to the combination of LUDs and distance zones, as seen from VPRs.

The SIOs adopted by the Forest Plan are defined as follows:

• Very High SIO: Landscapes where the landscape character is intact with only minute, if any, 

deviations. The existing landscape character and sense of place is expressed at the highest 

possible level.

• High SIO: Landscapes where the landscape character “appears” intact. Deviations are not 

readily evident to the casual observer.

• Moderate SIO: Landscapes where the landscape character “appears slightly altered.” Deviations 

are noticeable to the casual observer, but do not dominate the landscape.

• Low SIO: Landscapes where the landscape character “appears moderately altered.” Deviations 

can begin to dominate a scene, but must blend with the surrounding landscape, as viewed by the 

casual observer.

• Very Low SIO: Landscapes where the landscape character “appears heavily altered.” Deviations 

may strongly dominate the landscape character. Deviations clearly dominate, but must blend to 

some degree.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-176 ▪ Chapter 3 – Scenery Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Figure SCEN-1. Viewpoints
Environment and Effects 3

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SIOs were mapped for the entire forest as part of the planning process that supported the 2008 Forest Plan 

Revision. The total SIO acres for NFS lands in the analysis area are summarized in Table SCEN-1. The 

High SIO areas in the analysis area generally coincide with the Wilderness and Old-Growth Reserve 

LUDs. 

Table SCEN-1. Scenic Integrity Objectives (SIOs) in the Analysis Area

SIO Analysis Area Acres

Percent of Analysis

Area Total

Percent of NFS Lands in 

the Analysis Area

Very High 0 0.0 0.0

High 124,938 25.4 27.6

Moderate 71,415 14.4 15.7

Low 34,132 6.9 7.5

Very Low 220,398 44.6 48.5

NA 3,127 0.6 0.7

TOTAL NFS 454,010 91.9 100.0

Non-National Forest 39,796 8.1 N/A

Total All Lands 493,806 100.0 N/A

N/A – not applicable

Both of the route corridors—the Northern route corridor (Alternatives 2 and 3) and the Center-South 

route corridor (Alternative 4)—are identified as Potential Power Transmission Corridors in the Forest 

Plan. Potential Power Transmission Corridor is one of four subcategories that comprise the TUS LUD. 

The TUS LUD management prescription applies to existing major system corridors, as well as to the 

planning and design of future system corridors. Prior to construction of new systems, in this case the 

proposed KPI Project, the management prescriptions of the underlying LUDs remain applicable (USDA 

Forest Service 2008a, p. 3-128). As a result, the acres shown in Table SCEN-1 include the SIOs for the 

LUDs that underlie the Potential Power Transmission Corridors. Upon initiation of construction, and 

during system operation, the TUS management prescription applies and takes precedence over any 

underlying LUD. As such, the Forest Plan notes, the TUS LUD represents “a ‘window’ through the 

underlying LUD through which roads and/or utilities can be built” (p. 3-128). The landscape may be 

dominated by activities associated with transportation and utility systems and the SIO for the TUS LUD 

is low in all distance zones.

Existing Scenic Integrity (ESI)

The Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service 2008a, p. 4-56) states that it is important to compare the existing 

scenic integrity of the project area to the SIO of the land use designation. This is to determine if the 

existing condition conflicts with Forest Plan SIOs and how much additional disturbance is allowed. ESI 

is defined as the current state of the landscape, considering previous human alterations (USDA Forest 

Service 2008a, p. 7-11). Six levels are used to describe the landscape’s existing scenic integrity, ranging 

from unaltered to heavily altered. ESI is measured by the following condition types as described in the 

Forest Plan:

• Very High: Landscapes where the landscape character is intact with only minute, if any, 

deviations. The existing landscape character and sense of place is expressed at the highest 

possible level.

• High: Landscapes where the landscape character “appears” intact. Deviations may be present but 

repeat form, line, color, texture, and pattern common to the landscape character so completely 

and at such scale that they are not evident.

• Moderate: Landscapes where the landscape character “appears slightly altered.” Noticeable 

deviations remain visually subordinate to the landscape being viewed.
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• Low: Landscapes where the landscape character “appears moderately altered.” Deviations begin 

to dominate the landscape character being viewed, but borrow attributes such as size, shape, edge 

effect, and pattern of natural openings, vegetative type changes, or architectural styles outside the 

landscape being viewed.

• Very Low: Landscapes where the landscape character “appears heavily altered.” Deviations may 

strongly dominate the landscape character. They do not borrow from attributes such as size, 

shape, edge effect, and pattern of natural openings, vegetative type changes, or architectural styles 

within or outside the landscape being viewed.

• Unacceptable Low: Landscapes where the landscape character being viewed appears extremely 

altered. Deviations are extremely dominant and borrow little, if any, form, line, color, texture, 

pattern, or scale from the landscape character. 

The latest spatial data on record that represents ESI is the existing visual conditions (EVC) layer. The 

main potential disturbance to landscape character on NFS lands to have occurred since the layer was 

published in 2005 would be timber harvest activities and associated road building. Thus, the EVC layer 

was compared against the most recent available data identifying areas of timber harvest activities and 

associated roads. Following the guidance in Appendix E of Agriculture Handbook Number 701 (USDA 

Forest Service 1995), no recent disturbance was found that would warrant a change in ESI/EVC type. 

EVC ratings within the analysis area are shown in Figure SCEN-2. Just over two-thirds of the NFS acres 

are unaltered (ESI Very High), meaning that only ecological change has occurred in those areas. At the 

other end of the spectrum, another 21 percent of the NFS lands in the analysis area are heavily or 

extremely altered (ESI Very Low and Unacceptable Low) (Table SCEN-2). 
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Figure SCEN-2. Existing Visual Conditions 

 
3 Environment and Effects 

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Table SCEN-2. Existing Visual Conditions in the Analysis Area

ESI/EVC Type Analysis Area Acres

Percent of Analysis 

Area Total

Percent of NFS 

Lands in the Analysis 

Area

Very High/Type 1 309,738 62.7% 68.2%

High/Type 2 2,656 0.5% 0.6%

Moderate/Type 3 11,888 2.4% 2.6%

Low/Type 4 31,942 6.5% 7.0%

Very Low/Type 5 88,627 17.9% 19.5%

Unacceptable Low/Type 6 6,106 1.2% 1.3%

Unmapped 3,053 0.6% 0.7%

TOTAL NFS 454,010 91.9% 100%

Non-National Forest 39,796 8.1% N/A

Total All Lands 493,806 100% N/A

Notes:

EVC – existing visual condition

N/A – not applicable

Visual Absorption Capacity

Visual absorption capacity (VAC) is an estimate of the relative ability of a landscape to absorb change 

resulting from alterations such as timber harvest and vegetation clearing. VAC incorporates elements of 

slope, distance zone, visibility, and landscape complexity in measuring this capacity for change. The 

Forest Plan management prescriptions provide direction in determining the maximum harvest treatment 

and allowable visual disturbance within development areas using VAC classes. The classes are Low, 

Intermediate, and High, and, as identified, express a low, intermediate, or high capacity of the landscape 

to absorb change. As noted in the SIO discussion, above, the landscape in TUS LUDs may be dominated 

by activities associated with transportation and utility systems and the SIO for the TUS LUD is low in all 

distance zones. VAC classes are not part of the scenery guidance provided for the TUS LUD 

management prescription.

The management prescription for the TUS LUD indicates that the following should be considered during 

the design phase of routes that are visible from VPRs:

a) Vegetation of slopes seen from the road.

b) Providing "planting pockets" or terraces or slopes, where needed.

c) Maintaining landforms through road location and design.

d) Breaking up the straight line effect of linear corridors by considering special treatment of 

vegetation on clearing slopes or application of other design techniques and principles.

e) Requiring roadside cleanup of construction debris and logging slash on all roads receiving 

general public use or expected to have such future use. 

Environmental Effects 

Effects Common to All Alternatives 

Direct and Indirect Effects

Installation of the proposed transmission line structures and conductor (wires) would have visual impacts 

under all of the action alternatives, as would the construction of temporary shovel trails and temporary 
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access spurs, and vegetation clearing elsewhere in the ROW. The proposed submarine cable termination 

yards would also have potential visual impacts. Overall, the proposed action alternatives would each 

disturb a very small percentage of the analysis area (less than half of 1 percent). 

Scenic Attractiveness Class

Project disturbance is summarized by scenic attractiveness class and alternative in Table SCEN-3. None 

of the alternatives would disturb lands classified as Distinctive. The majority of the land expected to be

disturbed under each alternative is classified as Indistinctive (Table SCEN-3). 

Table SCEN-3. Project Disturbance by Scenic Attractiveness Class and Alternative

Scenic Attractiveness 

Class

Alternative

2 (Proposed Action) 3 4 

Acres

Percent of 

Total Acres

Percent of 

Total Acres

Percent of 

Total

Distinctive 0 0% 0 0% 0 0%

Typical 401 45% 382 44% 105 14%

Indistinctive 472 53% 472 54% 610 83%

Unmapped 18 2% 18 2% 24 3%

Total 891 100% 873 100% 739 100%

Notes:

1/ Totals may not sum due to rounding.

2/ Totals include both NFS and non-NFS lands.

3/ Disturbance totals include disturbance related to structure installation, temporary shovel trails, matting panels, and temporary 

access spurs, and vegetation clearing.

Distance Zones

Project disturbance is summarized by distance zone and alternative in Table SCEN-4. Total disturbance 

in the Foreground for the action alternatives would range from 132 acres under Alternative 4 to 325 acres 

under Alternative 2 (with just slightly less, 307 acres, for Alternative 3). 

Table SCEN-4. Project Disturbance by Distance Zone and Alternative

Distance Zone/ 

Alternative

Alternative

2 (Proposed Action) 3 4 

Acres

Percent of 

Total Acres

Percent of 

Total Acres

Percent of 

Total

Foreground 325 36% 307 35% 132 18%

Middleground 285 33% 285 33% 209 28%

Background 1 0% 1 0% 11 1%

Seldom Seen 262 29% 262 30% 363 49%

Unmapped 18 2% 18 2% 24 4%

Total 891 100% 873 100% 739 100%

Notes:

1/ Totals may not sum due to rounding.

2/ Totals include both NFS and non-NFS lands.

3/ Disturbance totals include disturbance related to structure installation, temporary shovel trails, matting panels, and temporary 

access spurs, and vegetation clearing.

Scenic Integrity Objectives

Both of the route corridors—the Northern route corridor (Alternatives 2 and 3) and the Center-South 

route corridor (Alternative 4)—are identified as Potential Power Transmission Corridors in the Forest 

Plan, one of four subcategories that comprise the TUS LUD. The Forest Plan standards and guidelines 
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for the TUS LUD indicate that the landscape may be dominated by activities associated with 

transportation and utility systems and requires the application of Forest-wide standards and guidelines for 

the Low SIO (USDA Forest Service 2008a, p. 3-132). All three action alternatives would meet the level 

of scenic quality prescribed for this SIO in the Forest Plan. Measures that would be employed to meet 

this SIO are common to all of the action alternatives and summarized below in the Mitigation section for 

this resource. 

Existing Scenic Integrity (ESI)

Project disturbance is summarized by existing visual condition and alternative in Table SCEN-5. As 

discussed in the Affected Environment section, six levels are used to describe a landscape’s existing scenic 

integrity, ranging from unaltered to heavily altered. Total disturbance in areas currently identified as 

unaltered would range from 222 acres for Alternative 4 to 309 acres for Alternatives 2 and 3.

Table SCEN-5. Project Disturbance by Existing Visual Condition and Alternative

ESI/EVC Type

Alternative

2 (Proposed Action) 3 4

Acres

Percent of 

Total Acres

Percent 

of Total Acres

Percent of 

Total

Very High/Type 1 309 35% 309 35% 222 30%

High/Type 2 0 0% 0 0% 0 0%

Moderate/Type 3 149 17% 149 17% 9 1%

Low/Type 4 4 0% 4 0% 66 9%

Very Low/Type 5 206 23% 206 24% 327 44%

Unacceptable Low/Type 6 49 5% 49 5% 49 7%

Unmapped 174 20% 156 19% 66 9%

Total 891 100% 873 100% 739 100%

Notes:

1/ Totals may not sum due to rounding.

2/ Totals include both NFS and non-NFS lands.

3/ Disturbance totals include disturbance related to structure installation, temporary shovel trails, matting panels, and temporary 

access spurs, and vegetation clearing.

Visibility

The line would consist of single wood pole structures with horizontal post insulators and three conductors 

(wires) (see Figure 2-4 in Chapter 2). The average pole would be approximately 55 feet tall and spaced 

approximately 350 feet to 400 feet apart. When seen in the foreground or silhouetted against the sky 

these structures would be highly visible. However, when the structures are seen against a coarsely 

textured forest backdrop, they tend to be absorbed into the background, greatly reducing their visual 

dominance. Under most viewing and lighting conditions in this region, transmission line conductors 

(wires) are difficult to detect and even at close range are typically not a visually prominent part of the 

scene, even when they are silhouetted against the sky. Conductors can, however, be highly visible under 

certain circumstances, primarily when the sun strikes a conductor at precisely the right angle to cause the 

light to reflect; this is most likely to occur when the conductor is new. Over time conductors tend to 

weather and lose their reflectivity.

No new roads would be constructed under any of the proposed alternatives. Existing forest roads would 

be used to access portions of all three action alternatives. Trucks and other equipment would use these 

existing roads to transport workers, materials, and machinery along the length of the line. However, all of 

the proposed action alternatives cross areas where there are no existing roads. Two primary options 

would be used for construction in these areas: temporary shovel trails and helicopter placement. 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Scenery ▪ 3-183

Helicopters would also be used to haul personnel, construction equipment, and material to the right-ofway, as well as between isolated sections of road. 

The proposed shovel trails would be temporary and for short-term use during project construction only. 

Shovel trails would be up to 16 feet wide and would use native materials where available. Temporary 

mats would be laid down to move the shovel rig along, where needed. In locations where poles are 

located off existing forest roads by more than 20 feet, temporary access spurs would be created by 

extending the road fill to the site. Where the distance from the road makes this impractical, temporary 

matting would be used to gain access to the site during construction. Shovel trails and temporary access 

spurs would be decommissioned following construction. Exposed soil along these temporary surfaces 

could introduce areas of light color into the scene, and contrast with the surrounding landscape. This 

impact would be short term and would lessen over time as the disturbed areas revegetate.

The average right-of-way width in areas classified by the Forest Service as productive forest is assumed 

for the purposes of analysis to be 300 feet, but not all of that width would necessarily need to be cleared, 

with the extent of the clearing being primarily dictated by line safety criteria. In order to maintain the 

safety of the structures and conductor, all trees that could grow up under the line or potentially fall over 

onto the line within 10 years of construction must be cut down. Trees and brush would, however, be left 

whenever possible to reduce the impact on the environment, especially in visually sensitive areas, riparian 

zones, erosion prone areas, and sensitive wildlife habitats. The average right-of-way clearing width along 

existing roads is assumed for the purposes of analysis to be 100 feet. The average clearing width in areas 

classified by the Forest Service as unproductive forest is also assumed to be 100 feet.

Impacts from right-of-way clearing would generally be greatest from locations with views straight down a 

cleared corridor or when viewed from the air. In many cases, right-of-way clearing would be “scalloped,” 

narrowing near the towers, where there is little sway in the conductors, and widening at mid-span, 

narrowing the apparent width of the corridor and reducing the straight linear effect that can make a ROW 

corridor look unnatural. In addition, changes in topography and vegetation patterns (particularly in 

muskeg and alpine areas) would break up and reduce the straight linear effect in many locations along the 

proposed routes.

Views straight down a cleared right-of-way corridor from the VPRs in the project area would be rare 

under all of the proposed action alternatives. More typical views would be of the transmission line 

crossing the side of a forested slope, with the right-of-way clearing often only detectable as a slight linear 

break or shadow in the forest pattern. Cleared areas may be visible on especially steep slopes and the tops 

of structures and short stretches of conductor may also be visible. However, as noted above, wood poles 

and conductors would in most cases be absorbed by the forested backdrop and difficult to detect.

In addition to assessing the potential visual impacts of the alternatives based on estimated disturbance to 

scenic attractiveness classes, distance zones, SIOs, and existing scenic integrity, the following alternativespecific analyses also addresses how visible the proposed project would be from the VPRs in the 

proposed project vicinity. The VPRs from which one or more of the alternatives would be potentially 

visible are identified in the Visual Priority Routes section, above. GIS analysis was used to identify the 

number of structures that could potentially be visible from each of the selected viewpoints, taking into 

account the effects of topography and intervening vegetation. These structures are identified by distance 

zone (foreground, middleground, background, and seldom seen) in the following sections based on the 

distance from the representative viewpoint to the closest structure that the GIS analysis identified as 

“seen.” Structures in the foreground (0 to 0.5 mile from the viewer) would be expected to have the 

highest degree of visibility. 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-184 ▪ Chapter 3 – Scenery Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Cumulative Effects

The direct and indirect effects analysis is based on the existing visual condition of the potentially affected 

landscape and, therefore, takes into account the cumulative effects of past activities in the analysis area. 

Known current and reasonably foreseeable future projects in the vicinity of the KPI Project are discussed 

at the beginning of Chapter 3 of this EIS.

Assuming implementation of the Forest Plan, harvest of all suitable timber lands outside of Inventoried 

Roadless Areas will occur within the next 100 to 120 years. During this period, the KPI analysis area 

would be transitioning towards meeting the desired condition for the development LUDs. Over time, the 

landscape in the analysis area will be characterized by a mixture of stands ranging in stages of 

development. Age-classes of these stands will include recently harvested or regenerating stands, stands of 

young-growth composed of pole sized trees, to more mature young-growth and old-growth stands. The 

appearance of the activities associated with timber harvest within the Timber Production LUD will 

present a landscape highly modified by this change. Landscapes within the Modified Landscape and 

Scenic Viewshed LUDs will also appear modified by change although less than those allocated to the 

Timber Production LUD. At the other end of the spectrum, landscapes within the Old-Growth Habitat 

and Semi-remote Recreation LUD’s will remain unchanged. 

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

The no action alternative would have no direct or indirect effects on scenic resources because there would 

be no new transmission line built under this alternative and no associated structure installation; use of 

helicopters, temporary shovel trails, or temporary access spurs; or vegetation-clearing activities.

Cumulative Effects

The no action alternative would not contribute to cumulative effects on scenic resources because there 

would be no new transmission line built and no direct and indirect effects.

Alternative 2 – Proposed Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Scenic Attractiveness Class

More than half (53 percent) of the lands that would be disturbed by Alternative 2 have an assigned scenic 

attractiveness class of indistinctive (Table SCEN-3). This is the least attractive of the three scenic 

attractiveness classes and generally represents areas with low scenic quality. Another 45 percent of the 

area that would be disturbed has an assigned scenic attractiveness class of typical, which is assigned to 

areas with ordinary or common scenic quality. None of the areas that would be disturbed have an 

assigned scenic attractiveness class of distinctive, which represents areas with unique, unusual, or 

outstanding scenic quality.

Distance Zones

Approximately 36 percent of the acres disturbed by Alternative 2 are located in areas that have been 

mapped as foreground, with 33 percent located in areas mapped as middleground (Table SCEN-4). The 

remaining acres are located in areas mapped as seldom seen (29 percent) or unmapped (2 percent). 

Disturbance located in the Foreground would be relatively close to one or more of the VPRs in the 

proposed project vicinity, but would not necessarily be visible to the average viewer. Visibility from the 

potentially affected VPRs is discussed below.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Scenery ▪ 3-185

Scenic Integrity Objectives

Alternative 2 would meet the level of scenic quality prescribed for the Low SIO in the Forest Plan within 

1 year in the foreground distance and within 5 years in the middleground and background distance zones 

following completion of construction. Measures that would be employed to meet this SIO are 

summarized in the Mitigation section, below. 

Existing Scenic Integrity

About one-third of the lands that would be disturbed (35 percent) by Alternative 2 have an ESI of Very 

High (EVC Type 1), which is assigned to landscapes where only ecological change has occurred (Table 

SCEN-5). These areas are mainly located along Frederick Sound and west of Portage Bay (Figure SCEN2). These areas are part of the IRAs that would be crossed by the proposed alternative (see Figure 1-3). 

Nearly one-quarter of the lands that would be disturbed (23 percent) have an ESI of Very Low (EVC 

Type 5), with another 5 percent in Unacceptable Low (Type 6); these types are assigned to landscapes 

where existing changes are very noticeable and obvious to the average viewer. The Very Low areas 

crossed by this alternative are primarily areas where timber harvest has occurred in the past; the 

Unacceptable Low areas are adjacent to the city of Kake (Figure SCEN-2). 

Visibility

The GIS analysis conducted for the proposed project identified a total of 22 VPRs from which Alternative 

2 could be potentially seen. These VPRs are identified in Table SCEN-6, with the corresponding 

viewpoint locations shown in Figure SCEN-1. Table SCEN 6 also identifies the number of structures that 

could potentially be visible from each of the selected viewpoints by distance zone (foreground, 

middleground, background, and seldom seen) based on the distance to the closest structure that the GIS 

analysis identified as “seen.” Based on this analysis, structures would be visible within the foreground 

(from 0 to 0.5 mile) from nine of the viewpoints selected to represent potentially affected VPRs (Table 

SCEN-6). The following sections discuss the potential visual impacts from each of the VPRs and 

viewpoints identified in Table SCEN-6. The following discussion proceeds east to west, while the listing 

in Table SCEN-6 is by VPR type.

Table SCEN-6. Number of Structures Potentially Visible from VPRs with view of Alternatives 2 

and 3

VPR/Viewpoint VCU

Distance to 

Closest 

“Seen” 

Structure 

(miles)1/

Number of Structures Visible1/

Foreground 

0-0.5 miles

Middleground 

0.5 – 5 miles

Background

5 - 15 miles

Seldom 

Seen

> 15 miles

Community

Kake 4230 0.61 0 6 0 0

Petersburg (airport) 4470 0.45 2 1 0 0

Petersburg (Sandy Beach) 4470 3.70 0 5 0 0

Kupreanof 4470 2.53 0 1 0 0

Small Boat & Mid-size Tour Boat Route

Keku Strait 4250 1.90 0 13 0 3

Alaska Marine Highway Route/Tour Ship Route

Frederick Sound (North) 4460 0.48 1 10 0 0

Frederick Sound (South) 4460 0.84 0 15 3 0

Wrangell Narrows (North) 4470 0.72 0 7 0 0

Saltwater Use Areas

Beacon Point 4460 0.43 2 4 0 0
3 Environment and Effects 

3-186 ▪ Chapter 3 – Scenery Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Table SCEN-6. Number of Structures Potentially Visible from VPRs with view of Alternatives 2 

and 3 (continued)

VPR/Viewpoint VCU

Distance to 

Closest 

“Seen” 

Structure 

(miles)1/

Number of Structures Visible1/

Foreground 

0-0.5 miles

Middleground 

0.5 – 5 miles

Background

5 - 15 miles

Seldom 

Seen

> 15 miles

Hamilton Creek Estuary 4250 1.80 0 1 0 0

Mouth of Narrows 4470 1.84 0 6 0 0

Portage Bay 4420 2.10 0 4 0 0

Frederick Point 4470 5.80 0 0 23 0

Public Use Road

Kake to Seal Point Road 

(North)

4250 0.08 4 13 0 0

Kake to Seal Point Road 

(South)

4250 0.04 5 0 0 0

Forest Service Recreation Cabin

Portage Bay 4420 2.62 0 3 0 0

West Point 4420 6.66 0 0 2 0

Big John Bay n/a 0 0 0 0 0

Dispersed Recreation Area

Goose Lake (and Trail #462) 4250 0.04 4 0 0 0

Hiking Trail

Portage Mountain Loop Trail 

(# 535)

4420 0.08 4 0 0 0

Colp Lake Trail (#461) 4460 0.02 2 0 0 0

Raven Trail (#607) 4470 0.44 2 1 0 0

Petersburg Mtn. Loop Trail 

(#585)

4470 2.84 0 3 0 0

Petersburg Lake Trail (#534) 4450 4.90 0 1 0 0

Big John Bay Trail (#465) 4271 5.08 0 0 3 0

Note:

1/ “Seen” structures in this context are those that could be potentially visible based on the intervening topography and vegetation. 

In most cases, structures in the Background and Seldom Seen distance zones would be very difficult to detect.

Frederick Point

Frederick Point is identified in the Forest Plan as a priority Saltwater Use Area. Views of the project 

from this area would be limited by intervening topography and the distance across Frederick Sound. The 

GIS analysis summarized in Table SCEN-6 indicated that boaters in this area may see 23 of the proposed 

structures in the background, between 5 to 15 miles away, with the closest seen structure nearly six miles 

from the viewpoint. At this distance, project structures would be difficult to discern against the forest 

slope along the eastern edge of the Lindenberg Peninsula. 

Petersburg 

Three viewpoint locations were selected to represent views from Petersburg. These points are identified 

in Figure SCEN-1 as Petersburg, Petersburg (airport), and Petersburg (Sandy Beach). The GIS analysis 

summarized in Table SCEN-6 indicated that parts of two structures would be visible between 0 and 0.5 

miles (foreground) and one between 0.5 and 5 miles from the Petersburg (airport) viewpoint (Figure 

SCEN-1), with the closest structure located about 0.45 mile away. The proposed transmission line would 

follow an existing gravel road south of the airport in this location and represent an incremental addition to 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Scenery ▪ 3-187

the overall level of alteration visible in this scene. Parts of five structures would be visible between 0.5 

and 5 miles from the Petersburg (Sandy Beach) viewpoint (Figure SCEN-1), with the closest structure 3.7 

miles away. At that distance, across the mouth of Wrangell Narrows, the structures would not dominate 

the landscape scene. A linear break in the forest line would be most visible, with structures largely 

blending into the forested slope. Depending on the final location of any onshore facility required for the 

horizontal bore, additional visual impacts may occur within the closer middleground to Sandy Beach. 

These would be mitigated through vegetative screening to the greatest extent possible.

Raven Trail (#607)

This 4.2-mile-long trail starts in Petersburg just south of the airport, and climbs south to the Ravens Roost 

Forest Service Recreation Cabin. No portion of the project would be visible from the top of the trail and 

cabin; thus, a viewpoint was selected for this VPR where the trail is crossed once by the transmission line 

approximately 0.3-mile from the trailhead (Figure SCEN-1). The GIS-based analysis indicated that two 

structures would be immediately visible in the foreground, with the closest structure 0.4-mile away, and 

one additional structure in the middle ground 0.5 to 5 miles away (Table SCEN-6). At the crossing 

location, the transmission line structures and right-of-way clearing would dominate the view. As this 

location is still within sight of the Petersburg airport before reaching the natural, forested extent of the 

trail, the transmission line would represent an incremental addition to the existing alteration of the 

landscape. 

Mouth of Narrows

The Mouth of Narrows is the waterway entrance to Wrangell Narrows from Frederick Sound, identified in 

the Forest Plan as a priority Saltwater Use Area. Alternative 2 would cross the Mouth of Narrows via a 

horizontal directional bore that would place the cable beneath the channel. The GIS-based analysis 

indicated that six proposed structures would be visible between 0.5 and 5 miles away from the viewpoint, 

with the closest seen structure approximately 1.84 miles to the north (Table SCEN-6). A linear break in 

the forested slope would also likely be visible at the closest middleground distances. Views of the 

proposed project would be limited in duration for boaters and passengers on larger vessels passing 

through the Mouth of Narrows. Potential impacts from the waterway could be reduced by maintaining 

existing screening vegetation between the proposed transmission line and the shoreline.

Wrangell Narrows

The Wrangell Narrows separates Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands and is identified in the Forest Plan as part 

of the Alaska Marine Highway and a Tour Ship Route. All three action alternatives would cross Wrangell 

Narrows and two viewpoints were selected to represent this VPR (Figure SCEN-1). Wrangell Narrows 

(North) was primarily selected to assess views of Alternatives 2 and 3. Wrangell Narrows (South) was 

selected to assess views of Alternative 4 and is located where this alternative crosses the Wrangell 

Narrows. 

The GIS-based analysis indicated that proposed structures for Alternative 2 would only be visible from 

the Wrangell Narrows (North) viewpoint, with seven structures between 0.5 and 5 miles away. The 

closest seen structure would be about 0.7 miles from this viewpoint to the east where the transmission line 

originates on Mitkof Island at the existing SEAPA substation. Views of the project for ferry and cruise 

ship passengers would likely be limited in duration as their respective vessels pass by the northwest end 

of Mitkof Island. As this portion of the project is in close proximity to the city of Petersburg, the limited 

view of infrastructure would be consistent with viewer expectations for this area and would add 

incrementally to the overall level of alteration visible in the scene. Potential impacts from the waterway 

could be reduced by maintaining existing screening vegetation between the proposed transmission line 

and the shoreline.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-188 ▪ Chapter 3 – Scenery Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Petersburg Mountain Loop Trail (#585)

The approximately 3.6-mile trail starts at the shared trailhead near the State Dock in Kupreanof and 

climbs to Narrows Peak at the top of Petersburg Mountain. The viewpoint selected for this VPR is 

located just over halfway up the trail, still relatively close to the shoreline just after the trail turns west for 

a steep climb (Figure SCEN-1). The GIS-based analysis indicated that three proposed structures would 

be visible between 0.5 and 5 miles away, with the closest seen structure about 2.8 miles to the south, 

across the city of Petersburg (Table SCEN-6). From the top peak of the trail, additional structures may be 

visible in the background. Given the existing view of Petersburg from the trail, these structures would be 

consistent with existing infrastructure elements and would add incrementally to the overall level of 

alteration visible in the scene.

Kupreanof

The community of Kupreanof would be largely shielded by vegetation, intervening topography, and the 

city of Petersburg from potential views of the proposed project. The GIS analysis summarized in Table 

SCEN-6 indicated, though, that one structure located approximately 2.5 miles to the southeast would be 

visible to residents. Viewed from the community, the structure would be consistent with existing 

infrastructure elements and would add incrementally to the overall level of alteration visible in the scene.

Petersburg Lake Trail (#534)

This approximately 10.5-mile trail begins near the State Dock in Kupreanof and generally follows 

Petersburg Creek up to Petersburg Lake (connecting with the Portage Mountain Loop Trail for hikers 

continuing northward). Viewers at Petersburg Lake and the most northern end of the trail would not be 

able to see any portion of the project. Thus, a representative viewpoint was selected for the trail closer in, 

approximately 3 miles up the trail (Figure SCEN-1). The GIS-based analysis indicated that from this 

viewpoint, only one proposed structure may be visible 4.9 miles to the south. At this distance, the 

structure and transmission line may be difficult to discern against other infrastructure existing in the city 

of Petersburg between the trail and the proposed project. Visual impacts closer to the trailhead would be 

similar to those discussed above for the community of Kupreanof. 

Frederick Sound and Beacon Point

Frederick Sound is identified in the Forest Plan as part of the Alaska Marine Highway and a Tour Ship 

Route. Beacon Point is identified as a Saltwater Use Area located in Frederick Sound. Alternatives 2 and 

3 would both extend north along the shoreline of the Lindenberg Peninsula, which borders Frederick 

Sound to the west. The proposed transmission line would be located at the toe of the slope and existing 

vegetation would be left in place, largely screening the structures and line from the water. Three 

viewpoints on Frederick Sound were selected to represent these VPRs (Figure SCEN-1). The GIS-based 

analysis indicated that proposed structures would be visible from each of these viewpoints; however 

structures would be visible in the foreground (0 to 0.5 miles) from only the northern Frederick Sound 

viewpoint (1 structure) and Beacon Point viewpoint (2 structures), all close to a half mile away (Table 

SCEN-6). Four to 15 structures would be visible between 0.5 and 5 miles from the three viewpoints, and 

an additional three structures would be visible in the background (5 to 15 miles) from the southern 

Frederick Sound viewpoint. The proposed transmission line would also likely be visible as a linear break 

in the forest pattern when viewed from Frederick Sound, and where it would span the larger creeks that 

incise this stretch of shoreline. Views of the proposed project for ferry and cruise ship passengers would 

likely be limited in duration as their respective vessels pass these specific locations. Recreational boaters 

at Beacon Point would have a more consistent view of the proposed project, depending on their 

movement within Frederick Sound. 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Scenery ▪ 3-189

Colp Lake Trail (#461)

The 2.1-mile Colp Lake Trail begins near the shoreline of Frederick Sound and extends southwest to Colp 

Lake. Alternative 2 crosses the trail once within the first 1,000 feet of the hike. The GIS analysis 

summarized in Table SCEN-6 indicated that two structures would be visible in the foreground from this 

location. These structures would be visible from limited locations along the trail, primarily due to 

intervening forest vegetation. The overhead conductor would span the trail and be visible to hikers 

approaching from either direction. At the crossing location, the transmission line structures and ROW 

clearing would dominate the view and the transmission line would represent the introduction of a

manmade feature into a predominantly natural landscape. The proposed alternative crosses the trail at a 

right angle and changes direction within a half mile before and after crossing the trail, thereby reducing 

potential views along the ROW. 

Portage Mountain Loop Trail (#535)

The 11-mile-long Portage Mountain Loop Trail begins at the Petersburg Lake Cabin. The trail extends 

northwest from the cabin to Portage Bay and follows the south shoreline of the bay, before heading south 

to end at the Salt Chuck East Cabin. The trail is unmaintained with occasional blue diamonds for 

guidance. Alternative 2 crosses the Portage Mountain Loop Trail twice near Portage Bay. The viewpoint 

selected to represent this VPR is located where the line would cross the portion of the trail that extends 

north from Petersburg Lake to Portage Bay. 

The GIS analysis summarized in Table SCEN-6 indicated that four structures would be visible in the 

foreground from this location. These structures would be visible from limited locations along the trail, 

primarily due to intervening forest vegetation. The overhead conductor would span the trail and be 

visible to hikers approaching from either direction. At the crossing location, the transmission line 

structures and ROW clearing would dominate the view and the transmission line would represent the 

introduction of a manmade feature into a predominantly natural landscape. The proposed alternative 

crosses the trail at an angle and changes direction shortly before and after crossing the trail, thereby 

reducing potential views along the ROW. This alternative would have similar visual impacts at the 

second location where it would cross this trail.

Portage Bay 

Portage Bay is a priority Saltwater Use Area, with an associated Forest Service Recreation Cabin located 

on the eastern shore of the bay. Two viewpoints were selected to represent the Saltwater Use Area and 

Cabin location, respectively (Figure SCEN-1). The GIS-based analysis summarized in Table SCEN-6 

indicated that proposed structures would be visible from both viewpoints between 0.5 and 5 miles away, 

four structures from the water and three structures from the cabin. The closest seen structure from the 

water would be 2.1 miles to the south, and the closest seen structure from the cabin would be 2.6 miles to 

the south. Boaters in Portage Bay may be able to see additional structures as they travel southward; 

however forest vegetation would still largely screen the project from view. The transmission line would 

likely be visible as a linear break in the forest pattern from both viewpoints. 

West Point

West Point is a priority Forest Service Recreation Cabin located at the mouth of Portage Bay. The GISbased analysis indicated that two proposed structures would be visible in the background view, 5 to 15 

miles away, with the closest structure approximately 6.6 miles to the south. With Portage Bay and 

forested slopes between West Point and the transmission line, views would be extremely limited and the 

identified structures likely only potentially discernible against the backdrop in ideal weather conditions. 

Big John Bay Cabin and Trail (#465)

Big John Bay is identified as a priority Forest Service Recreation Cabin in the Forest Plan. The 

associated 2.1-mile trail leading from FR 45001 to the cabin is also identified as a VPR. Each VPR was 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-190 ▪ Chapter 3 – Scenery Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

assigned a representative viewpoint for analysis (Figure SCEN-1). All three alternatives are potentially 

visible from the trail viewpoint. However, the GIS-based analysis indicated that Alternative 2 would only 

be visible in the background, 5 to 15 miles away, along the western end of the transmission line corridor 

common to all three alternatives (Table SCEN-6). At this distance and with intervening vegetation, 

Alternative 2 would be difficult to discern against the forested backdrop and would not reduce the visual 

experience of hiking and camping at Big John Bay. Although the initial GIS analysis suggested that the 

project would be visible from Big John Bay Cabin, this would not be the case as cabin is situated on a 

small wooded point facing away from the proposed project.

Goose Lake Dispersed Recreation Area and Trail (#462)

The 0.6-mile-long trail leading to and general vicinity around Goose Lake is identified as a priority 

Hiking Trail and Dispersed Recreation Area in the Forest Plan. Alternative 2 would cross the trail near 

the trailhead. A viewpoint was selected near this crossing as a representative location (Figure SCEN-1). 

The GIS-based analysis indicated that four proposed structures would be visible in the foreground, with 

the closest structure immediately next to the viewpoint (Table SCEN-6). These structures would be 

visible from limited locations along the trail, primarily due to intervening forest vegetation. The overhead 

conductor would span the trail and be visible to hikers approaching from either direction. At the crossing 

location, the transmission line structures and ROW clearing would dominate the view and the 

transmission line would represent the introduction of a manmade feature into a predominantly natural 

landscape. The proposed alternative crosses the trail at an angle, and the trail proceeds immediately into 

the recreation area where intervening vegetation limits further view of the proposed project. 

Hamilton Creek Estuary

Hamilton Creek Estuary is identified in the Forest Plan as a priority Saltwater Use Area. One 

representative viewpoint was selected for this location (Figure SCEN-1). All three alternatives would be 

visible from this area; however, Alternative 2 would only be visible along the western end of the 

transmission line corridor common to all three alternatives. The GIS-based analysis indicated the one 

proposed structure would be visible to boaters, in the middleground approximately 1.8 miles away. The 

proposed transmission line would add incrementally to the overall level of alteration visible in the scene, 

primarily as a linear break in the forest. Potential impacts from the waterway could be reduced by 

maintaining existing screening vegetation between the proposed transmission line and the shoreline.

Kake to Seal Point Road

The Kake to Seal Point Road, identified in the Forest Plan as a Public Use Road, is the main public travel 

route from Kake to Seal Point, used by local residents and visitors to access recreation and other activities 

in the Seal Point area. Two viewpoints were selected to represent potential views from this VPR, one 

closer to Kake to the north and a second about 1.5 miles farther away from town to the south. The GISbased analysis summarized in Table SCEN-6 indicated that nine of the proposed structures would be 

visible in the foreground from these viewpoints (4 from the northern point, and 5 from the southern), with 

an additional 13 structures visible between 0.5 to 5 miles away from the northern viewpoint Figure 

SCEN-1), with the closest structures immediately next to each viewpoint. The proposed transmission line 

would parallel this road for the entire length of the road, approximately six miles, and the structures and 

the line itself would be visible to people traveling along the road for its entire length. If located 

immediately adjacent to the road shoulder within the same cleared right-of-way as the road, the proposed 

transmission line would likely dominate the view from the road and represent a noticeable deviation from 

the existing visual setting. The potential for the transmission line to dominate road views could be 

reduced by setting the structures away from the road and leaving a visual buffer of trees along the road to 

screen views of the structures and the line.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Scenery ▪ 3-191

Keku Strait

Keku Strait is identified in the Forest Plan as a Small Boat and Mid-Size Tour Boat Route. The GIS 

analysis summarized in Table SCEN-6 indicated that parts of 13 structures would be visible between 0.5 

to 5 miles from the viewpoint selected to represent this VPR (Figure SCEN-1), with the closest structure 

located about 1.9 miles away. These structures would be located on non-NFS lands along the part of the 

Kake to Seal Point Road that follows the coastline southeast of Kake. The structures would be set against 

a generally forested background and would be broadly consistent with viewer expectations for this 

location, based on its proximity to the community of Kake, as indicated by the Very Low and 

Unacceptable Low ESI (EVC Types 5 and 6) in this area (Figure SCEN-2). The proposed transmission 

line would add incrementally to the overall level of alteration visible in the scene. Potential impacts from 

the waterway could be reduced by maintaining existing screening vegetation between the proposed 

transmission line and the shoreline.

Kake

The GIS analysis summarized in Table SCEN-6 indicated that parts of six structures would be visible 

between 0.5 to 5 miles from the viewpoint selected to represent the city of Kake (Figure SCEN-1), with 

the closest structure located about 0.6 mile away. These structures would be located on non-NFS lands 

along the part of the Kake to Seal Point Road that follows the coastline southeast of Kake. Viewed from 

the community, these structures would be consistent with existing infrastructure elements and would add 

incrementally to the overall level of alteration visible in the scene.

Cumulative Effects

As noted in the cumulative effects discussion common to all alternatives, implementation of the Forest 

Plan over the next 100 to 120 years would result in timber harvest in the development LUDs within the 

analysis area (see Figure 1-4). Reasonably foreseeable timber sales and other projects are identified in the 

Reasonably Foreseeable Future Actions section at the beginning of this chapter. Unit-specific data 

available for four of the reasonably foreseeable timber sales indicate that 356 acres within the analysis 

area for Alternative 2 could be harvested as part of the Scott Peak timber sale, which is currently under 

litigation. An estimated 2.7 acres of this total coincide with the proposed disturbance footprint for 

Alternative 2. Mitigation measures would reduce the potential impacts of proposed harvest in these 

locations and minimize visibility from VPRs in accordance with the Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service 

2008a). The incremental addition of Alternative 2 to the proposed project is not expected to result in 

impacts substantially greater than those disclosed in the preceding section. 

Alternative 3 – Northern Route with Submarine Cable

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternatives 2 and 3 are the same with the exception of the approximately 3-mile-long section that 

extends from Sandy Beach Park on Mitkof Island to Kupreanof Island (see Figure 2-1). Under 

Alternative 3, the proposed transmission line would cross Frederick Sound via a 3.1-mile-long submarine 

cable. The crossing would originate near Sandy Beach Park and come ashore near Prolewy Point on the 

east shore of Kupreanof Island. In both cases, this portion of the route is located entirely on non-NFS 

lands (see Figure 2-1).

Scenic Attractiveness Class, Distance Zones, Scenery Integrity Objectives, and Existing Scenic Integrity

As noted above, Alternatives 2 and 3 are the same with the exception of an approximately 3-mile-long 

section located on non-NFS lands. The impact discussions related to Scenic Attractiveness Class, 

Distance Zones, SIOs, and ESI are, as a result, predominantly the same for both alternatives. See the 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-192 ▪ Chapter 3 – Scenery Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

discussion for these items for Alternative 2, above. For the analysis of disturbance by Distance Zone, 

Alternative 3 affects slightly less area (18 acres) classified as foreground. 

Visibility

The majority of Alternative 3 would have the same impacts in relation to VPRs as discussed above for 

Alternative 2. There would be additional visual impacts in the immediate vicinity of the submarine cable 

termination yards on Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands, and potentially from just offshore in Frederick 

Sound. These yards would occupy relatively small areas (about 30 feet by 30 feet) that would serve as the 

interface between the overhead sections of the line and the submarine cable. They would be located near 

the shoreline on each side, but situated behind the tree lines to limit visibility from the water to the extent 

possible. The termination yards would contain lightning arrestors and risers that connect the overhead 

system to the submarine cable and include structures up to 50 feet in height. A photograph of a typical 

submarine cable termination facility is provided as Figure 2-9 in Chapter 2 of this EIS.

Cumulative Effects

As discussed with respect to Alternative 2, the incremental addition of Alternative 3 to the one reasonably 

foreseeable timber sale project that would coincide with the proposed transmission line is not expected to 

result in substantially greater impacts than those that would be expected to occur as a result of the 

proposed project alone. 

Alternative 4 – Center South Route

Direct and Indirect Effects

Scenic Attractiveness Class

Approximately 83 percent of the lands that would be disturbed by Alternative 4 have an assigned scenic 

attractiveness class of indistinctive (Table SCEN-3). This is the least attractive of the three scenic 

attractiveness classes and generally represents areas with low scenic quality. The remaining 17 percent of 

the area that would be disturbed has an assigned scenic attractiveness class of typical (14 percent), which 

is assigned to areas with ordinary or common scenic quality, or is unmapped. None of the areas that 

would be disturbed have an assigned scenic attractiveness class of distinctive, which represents areas with 

unique, unusual, or outstanding scenic quality.

Distance Zones

Approximately 18 percent of the acres disturbed by Alternative 4 are located in areas that have been 

mapped as foreground, with 28 percent located in areas mapped as middleground (Table SCEN-4). The 

remaining acres are located in areas mapped as background (1 percent), seldom seen (49 percent), or are 

unmapped (4 percent). Disturbance located in the foreground would be relatively close to one or more of 

the VPRs in the project vicinity, but would not necessarily be visible to the average viewer. Visibility 

from the potentially affected VPRs is discussed below.

Scenic Integrity Objectives

Alternative 4 would meet the level of scenic quality prescribed for the Low SIO in the Forest Plan within 

one year in the Foreground distance and within five years in the Middle and Background distance zones 

following completion of construction. Measures that would be employed to meet this SIO are 

summarized in the Mitigation section, below. 

Existing Scenic Integrity

More than half of the lands that would be disturbed by Alternative 4 have an ESI of Very Low (44 

percent) or Unacceptable Low (7 percent) (EVC Types 5 and 6, respectively) (Table SCEN-5). The ESI 
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categories of Very Low and Unacceptable are assigned to landscapes where changes are very noticeable 

and obvious to the average viewer. The Very Low areas crossed by this alternative are primarily areas 

where timber harvest has occurred in the past; the Unacceptable Low areas are adjacent to the city of 

Kake (Figure SCEN-2). Approximately 30 percent of the lands that would be disturbed have an ESI of 

Very High (EVC Type 1), which is assigned to landscapes where only ecological change has occurred. 

This area coincides with the IRA west of Duncan Canal.

Visibility

The GIS analysis conducted for this project identified a total of 17 VPRs from which Alternative 4 could 

be potentially seen, and one additional location popular with local residents (Papke’s Landing). These 

VPRs are identified in Table SCEN-7, with the corresponding viewpoint locations shown in Figure 

SCEN-1. Table SCEN-7 also identifies the number of structures that could potentially be visible from 

each of the selected viewpoints by distance zone (foreground, middleground, background, and seldom 

seen) based on the distance to the closest structure that the GIS analysis identified as “seen.” Based on 

this analysis, structures would be visible within the foreground (from 0 to 0.5 mile) from five of the 

selected viewpoints (Table SCEN-7). The following sections discuss the potential visual impacts from 

each of the VPRs and viewpoints identified in Table SCEN-7. The following discussion proceeds east to 

west, while the listing in Table SCEN-7 is by VPR type.

Table SCEN-7. Number of Structures Potentially Visible from VPRs with a view of Alternative 4

VPR/Viewpoint VCU

Distance to 

Closest 

“Seen” 

Structure 

(miles)1/

Number of Structures Visible1/

Foreground

0-0.5 mile

Middleground

0.5 – 5 miles

Background

5 - 15 miles

Seldom Seen

> 15 miles

Community

Kake 4230 0.61 0 6 0 0

Alaska Marine Highway Route and Tour Ship Route

Wrangell Narrows (north) 4470 4.66 0 5 0 0

Wrangell Narrows (south) 4470 0.27 1 4 0 0

Small Boat & Mid-size Tour Boat Route

Keku Strait 4250 1.90 0 13 0 0

Towers Arm 4400 5.95 0 0 12 0

Duncan Canal to Salt Chuck 4411 6.16 0 0 3 0

Saltwater Use Area

Duncan Canal (north of line) 4380 3.10 0 11 1 0

Duncan Canal (south of line) 4370 2.50 0 5 0 0

Hamilton Creek Estuary 4250 1.80 0 5 0 0

Boat Anchorage

Castle Islands 4350 3.38 0 3 0 0

Papke’s Landing 4470 2.48 0 4 0 0

Public Use Road

Kake to Seal Point Road 

(north)

4250 0.08 4 13 0 0

Kake to Seal Point Road 

(south)

4250 0.04 5 0 0 0
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Table SCEN-7. Number of Structures Potentially Visible from VPRs with a view of Alternative 4

(continued)

VPR/Viewpoint VCU

Distance to 

Closest 

“Seen” 

Structure 

(miles)1/

Number of Structures Visible1/

Foreground

0-0.5 mile

Middleground

0.5 – 5 miles

Background

5 - 15 miles

Seldom Seen

> 15 miles

Forest Road 6235 Three Lakes 

Loop

4470 2.33 0 4 0 0

Forest Service Recreation Cabins

Big John Bay n/a 0.00 0 0 0 0

Castle Flats 4350 5.77 0 0 1 0

Towers Arm 4400 10.56 0 0 4 0

Dispersed Recreation Areas

Hamilton Creek 4250 0.11 1 0 0 0

Hiking Trails

Big John Bay Trail (#465) 4271 0.28 5 8 3 0

State Marine Park

Beecher Pass n/a 10.20 0 0 3 4

Note:

1/ “Seen” structures in this context are those that could be potentially visible based on the intervening topography and vegetation. I 

most cases, structures in the Background and Seldom Seen distance zones would be very difficult to detect.

Wrangell Narrows

As noted under Alternative 2, the Wrangell Narrows separates Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands and is 

identified in the Forest Plan as part of the Alaska Marine Highway and a Tour Ship Route. All three 

action alternatives would cross Wrangell Narrows and two viewpoints were selected to represent this 

VPR (Figure SCEN-1). Wrangell Narrows (North) was primarily selected to assess views of Alternatives 

2 and 3. Wrangell Narrows (South) was selected to assess views of Alternative 4 and is located where 

this alternative crosses the Wrangell Narrows. 

As currently proposed, Alternative 4 would involve a submarine cable crossing of the Wrangell Narrows 

at this location; the proposed transmission line would not span this waterway. Submarine cable 

termination yards would be needed on both ends of the cable crossing. These yards would occupy 

relatively small areas (about 30 feet by 30 feet) that would serve as the interface between the overhead 

sections of the line and the submarine cable. They would be located near the shoreline on either side of 

the Narrows, but situated behind the tree lines to limit visibility from the water to the extent possible. The 

termination yards would contain lightning arrestors and risers that connect the overhead system to the 

submarine cable and include structures up to 50 feet in height. A photograph of a typical submarine cable 

termination facility is provided as Figure 2-9 in Chapter 2 of this EIS. 

The GIS-based analysis summarized in Table SCEN-7 indicated that parts of the proposed structures 

either side of the Wrangell Narrows would be visible from both viewpoints; however primarily from the 

Wrangell Narrows (South) viewpoint. These structures would likely be partially shielded from view by 

the existing tree line and the parts that were visible would be viewed against a textured forested backdrop 

and likely absorbed into the background. The transmission line corridor on both sides of the Narrows 

would extend away from the water at an angle, further reducing the potential for views straight down a 

cleared right-of-way corridor. In addition, existing manmade changes are evident at this crossing on 

either side of the waterway. The Tonka LTF is located on the west shore and an old wooden structure is 

present on the east, with existing roads also visible on both shorelines.
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Scenery ▪ 3-195

Mitkof State Highway (Highway 7)

Two viewpoints were selected to provide a representative view from this VPR. The first is located 

approximately midway between the points of origin for the alternatives (about 2 miles north of 

Alternative 4), and the second is located near where Alternative 4 would connect to the existing Tyee 

transmission line and cross the highway heading east towards Wrangell Narrows. The GIS-based analysis 

indicated that no proposed structures for Alternative 4 would be visible from either viewpoint (and 

therefore is not shown in Table SCEN-7). However, from the second viewpoint, Alternative 4 would be 

directly visible to passing motorists where the transmission line crosses the highway, and potentially 

visible as the route parallels the highway for approximately three-quarters of a mile to the Wrangell 

Narrows crossing location. The potential for the transmission line to dominate road views south of the 

direct crossing would be reduced by leaving a visual buffer of trees along the road to screen views of the 

structures and the line to the extent possible. Further, existing commercial, light industrial, and 

residential development occurs along this corridor; therefore, the transmission line would represent an 

incremental addition to existing alterations to the landscape. 

Forest Road 6235 Three Lakes Loop

Two viewpoints were selected to provide a representative view from this VPR. The first is located near 

the juncture with Mitkof State Highway (about two mile south of Alternative 4), and the second just up 

the road about a half mile. The GIS-based analysis indicated that no proposed structures would be visible 

from the second viewpoint. At that point in the road, it begins to curve away from Wrangell Narrows and 

wraps around a large hillside, thereby screening the majority of the roadway from potential views of the 

project. From the first viewpoint close to the highway, four proposed structures would be visible in the 

middleground, with the closest seen structure 2.3 miles to the north (Table SCEN-7). The transmission 

line would be an incremental addition to existing infrastructure along that end of the road, consistent with 

viewer expectations as they exit the less altered setting in the interior of Mitkof Island. 

Papke’s Landing

While not a VPR, the Forest Service identified Papke’s Landing as a popular boat launch used by 

residents in the area (Figure SCEN-1). The GIS-based analysis indicated that four proposed structures 

would be visible between 0.5 and 5 miles away, with the closest seen structure approximately 2.5 miles to 

the north and on the opposite side of Wrangell Narrows (Table SCEN-7). These structures would be set 

against a forested backdrop and difficult to detect from this location. Boaters traveling from this point 

northward would experience similar effects as discussed for Wrangell Narrows above.

Beecher Pass State Marine Park

The GIS-based viewshed analysis indicated that Alternative 4 could be potentially visible from the 

Beecher Pass State Marine Park. However, the selected viewpoint is more than 10 miles from the closest 

“seen” structure and it is highly unlikely that the proposed project would be visible from this location 

(Table SCEN-7, Figure SCEN-1).

Castle Islands

The Castle Islands are identified as a Boat Anchorage in the Forest Plan. The GIS analysis summarized 

in Table SCEN-7 indicated that parts of the proposed structures either side of the Duncan Canal could be 

visible from the viewpoint selected to represent this location (Figure SCEN-1). However, these structures 

would be more than 3 miles from this viewpoint, partially screened by existing vegetation and set against 

a forested backdrop, and would, therefore, be very difficult to detect from this location.

Castle Flats

Castle Flats is a priority Forest Service Recreation Cabin on the western side of Duncan Canal (Figure 

SCEN-1). The GIS-based analysis indicated that one proposed structure may be visible from this location 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-196 ▪ Chapter 3 – Scenery Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

in the background, more than five miles away (Table SCEN-7). At this distance with intervening 

vegetation and water, it is highly unlikely that the project would be visible from this location. 

Duncan Canal

Duncan Canal is identified in the Forest Plan as a Saltwater Use Area. Two viewpoints were selected to 

assess the potential impacts of Alternative 4 as viewed from this VPR (Figure SCEN-1). Crossing the 

Duncan Canal would involve a second submarine cable crossing, similar to the one that would be used to 

cross the Wrangell Narrows; the proposed transmission line would not span this waterway. Based on the 

selected viewpoints, north and south of the proposed crossing location, there would be no structures 

visible in the foreground (Table SCEN-7). Viewed from both Duncan Canal viewpoints, a number of 

structures would be partially visible, more than two miles away. These structures would be set against a 

forested backdrop and difficult to detect from this location. 

Closer to the crossing location, individual structures either side of the waterway would likely be partially 

visible from the water. The submarine cable termination yards would be located on the shoreline either 

side of the canal, but situated behind the tree lines to limit visibility from the water to the extent possible. 

Although the cleared ROW corridor for this alternative would extend east from this crossing for almost a 

mile, existing vegetation that would be retained between the proposed submarine cable termination yard 

and the water would reduce the potential for views straight down the cleared corridor.

Duncan Canal to Salt Chuck

Duncan Canal to Salt Chuck is identified in the Forest Plan as a Small Boat and Mid-Size Tour Boat 

Route. However, the selected viewpoint for this VPR near the mouth of North Arm (Figure SCEN-1) is 

over six miles from the closest “seen” structure and it is highly unlikely that the proposed project would 

be visible from this location (Table SCEN-7). 

Towers Arm Waterway and Cabin

Towers Arm is identified in the Forest Plan as a Small Boat and Mid-Size Tour Boat Route. The GISbased viewshed analysis indicated that Alternative 4 could be potentially visible from this location. 

However, similar to Duncan Canal to Salt Chuck neighboring to the east, the selected viewpoint for this 

VPR at the mouth to Towers Arm (Figure SCEN-1) is almost 6 miles from the closest “seen” structure 

and it is highly unlikely that the project would be visible from this location (Table SCEN-7). The Forest 

Service Recreation Cabin associated with Towers Arm is located at the far end of the waterway, with the 

closest “seen” structure over 10 miles to the south and equally or more unlikely to be visible from this 

location (Table SCEN-7). 

Big John Bay Cabin and Trail (#465)

Big John Bay is identified as a priority Forest Service Recreation Cabin in the Forest Plan. The 

associated 2.1-mile trail leading from FR 45001 to the cabin is also identified as a VPR. Each VPR was 

assigned a representative viewpoint for analysis (Figure SCEN-1). All three alternatives are potentially 

visible from the trail viewpoint. However, Alternative 4 would be primarily visible from both 

viewpoints, especially from Trail #465 with five proposed structures in the foreground (Table SCEN-7). 

An additional eight structures would be visible to hikers along the trail between 0.5 and 5 miles away, and 

20 structures would be visible from the cabin in the middleground, with the closest seen structure about 

1.9 miles away (Table SCEN-7). Hikers would experience a short-term disruption to the otherwise 

natural setting, though structures would be visible from limited locations along the trail, primarily due to 

intervening forest vegetation. Although the initial GIS analysis suggested that the project would be 

visible from Big John Bay Cabin, this would not be the case as cabin is situated on a small wooded point 

facing away from the project.
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Scenery ▪ 3-197

Hamilton Creek 

Hamilton Creek is identified as a priority Dispersed Recreation Area in the Forest Plan. One 

representative viewpoint was selected for this VPR where Alternative 4 would cross Hamilton Creek 

(Figure SCEN-1). The GIS-based analysis indicated that one proposed structure would be visible in the 

immediate foreground next to the viewpoint (Table SCEN-7). Tall forested vegetation likely screens 

other structures from viewers within the recreation area. The right-of-way would dominate the scene for 

users along the direct crossing, as the right-of-way would create a linear gap in the forest for 

approximately half of a mile. 

Hamilton Creek Estuary

Hamilton Creek Estuary is identified in the Forest Plan as a priority Saltwater Use Area. One 

representative viewpoint was selected for this location (Figure SCEN-1). All three alternatives would be 

visible from this area; however, Alternative 4 would be visible to a greater extent from this viewpoint 

along its corridor immediately prior to rejoining Alternatives 2 and 3. The GIS-based analysis indicated 

that five proposed structures would be visible to boaters in the middleground, with the closest seen 

structure approximately 1.8 miles away in the corridor common to all three alternatives, and four 

additional structures over 3.3 miles away along the Alternative 4 route (Table SCEN-7). The proposed 

transmission line would add incrementally to the overall level of alteration visible in the scene, primarily 

as a linear break in the forest. Potential impacts from the waterway could be reduced by maintaining 

existing screening vegetation between the proposed transmission line and the shoreline. The more distant 

structures visible along the Alternative 4 corridor would be set against a forested backdrop and very 

difficult to detect from the waterway. 

Kake to Seal Point Road, Keku Strait, and Kake

All three action alternatives follow the same alignment in the locations that would be visible from these 

VPRs; therefore, the visual impacts would be the same as those described above for Alternative 2. 

Cumulative Effects

Implementation of the Forest Plan over the next 100 to 120 years would result in timber harvest in the 

development LUDs within the analysis area (see Figure 1-4). Reasonably foreseeable projects within the 

analysis area for this alternative include the Central Kupreanof and Tonka timber sale projects. A total of 

29.7 acres of identified harvest units for these projects coincide with the disturbance footprint for 

Alternative 4: 16.9 acres and 12.8 acres for Central Kupreanof and Tonka, respectively. Although NEPAcleared, unless market conditions change, the Central Kupreanof units are not expected to be offered for 

sale over the next 5 years. In contrast, harvest of the Tonka units is expected to be completed in 2014. 

Mitigation measures would reduce the potential impacts of proposed harvest in these locations and 

minimize visibility from VPRs in accordance with the Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service 2008a). The 

incremental addition of Alternative 4 to these projects is not expected to result in impacts substantially 

greater than those disclosed in the preceding section. 

Mitigation 

The effects of the KPI Project on scenery would be limited through the site-specific application of Forest 

Plan standards and guidelines and project-specific mitigation measures (see Chapter 2). The proposed

alternatives will continue to be refined as the project continues. Future design efforts will take into 

consideration measures designed to respond to visual concerns, specifically regarding the location of 

structures and other project components. 
3 Environment and Effects

3-198 ▪ Chapter 3 – Recreation Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Recreation

Introduction

The recreation section provides an assessment of the current condition of the analysis area and the 

potential effects of implementing the proposed action and the alternatives on recreation resources. The 

analysis concentrates on the potential effects associated with construction and operation of the proposed 

transmission line, as well as the potential impacts of not proceeding with the proposed project (i.e., the no 

action alternative).

Analysis Area and Methodology

The analysis area for recreation consists of the 18 VCUs that comprise the KPI project area (Figure 1-2) and 

VCU 4270. The analysis area is shown in Figure REC-1. VCU 4270 has been added because one of the 

proposed action alternatives passes in close proximity and the potentially affected Big John Bay Cabin is 

located in this area. The analysis of existing recreation opportunities is based on the Forest Service 

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum system (ROS). Key ROS setting characteristics considered in the analysis 

include remoteness, size of the area, evidence of humans and human activity, user density, and land 

management objectives. Potential impacts to ROS settings are estimated based on projected system and 

temporary road construction using GIS analysis. Impacts to recreation places and sites, OHV use, and 

Special Use Permits and Outfitter/Guide use are assessed qualitatively.

Affected Environment

Recreation use in the analysis area includes freshwater fishing, big game and waterfowl hunting, OHV 

use, kayaking and canoeing, hiking and wildlife viewing, picnicking, and camping. The following section 

is divided into five parts that provide an overview of regional and local tourism and describe ROS 

settings, recreation places and sites, OHV use, and outfitter/guide use in the analysis area. 

Tourism

Southeast Alaska

The visitor industry in Alaska is very seasonal, with the majority of visitation taking place between May 

and September. An estimated 1,064,000 out-of-state visitors came to Southeast Alaska from May 2011 

through April 2012, with the majority of these visitors arriving by cruise ship (McDowell Group 2013). 

In addition to experiencing the Tongass from the deck of the cruise ship and exploring ports of call, many 

passengers also take at least one trip to the Forest during their visit (McDowell Group 2005). Non-cruise 

visitors tend to either use package deals designed to provide transportation, lodging, meals, and activities, 

or visit as independent travelers. Independent travelers tend to design their own travel itineraries, utilize 

public transportation systems, and stay in local communities. For the majority of Alaska visitors, it is 

important to experience the natural resources, cultural history, and wildness of the region. The McDowell 

Group (2013) estimated that total visitor-related employment supported 10,200 jobs and $370 million in 

labor income in Southeast Alaska from May 2011 through April 2012, about 21 percent of total regional 

employment and 15 percent of total labor income.

Petersburg 

Visitors to Petersburg arrive by airplane, ferry, small cruise ship, or private vessel. Commercial flight 

service is provided by Alaska Airlines, which operates one commercial jet flight north and south each 

day. Approximately six ferries stop in Petersburg each week, with the schedules varying between 
Environment and Effects 3

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Figure REC-1. Recreation Opportunity Spectrum Settings within the Analysis Area
3 Environment and Effects

3-200 ▪ Chapter 3 – Recreation Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

summer and winter. Visitor statistics compiled by the Petersburg Chamber of Commerce in 2005 

indicated that there were a total of 24,000 visitors (excluding business travelers), including 10,000 cruise 

ship passengers, 6,000 passengers from private vessels, 4,500 air passengers, and 3,400 ferry passengers 

(Dugan et al. 2009). 

Petersburg is a common stop for out-of-town yachts and pleasure craft traveling up or down the Inside 

Passage during the summer. An estimated 1,800 of these types of vessels moored at Petersburg Harbor in 

summer 2006 (Dugan et al. 2009). Other visitors bring their cars and recreational vehicles (RVs) on the 

Alaska Marine Highway System. Informal estimates suggest that more than 700 RVs visited Petersburg 

in 2006 (Dugan et al. 2009). Petersburg is located away from the sea lines traveled by large cruise ships, 

but several smaller cruise ships, typically carrying 200 or fewer passengers, visit regularly during the 

summer, with an estimated 8 to 10 cruise vessels visiting a week in summer 2006. Cruise ship passengers 

do not spend much time in Petersburg, typically visiting for a limited number of hours. Other 

independent (i.e., non-cruise) visitors typically spend from 2 to 7 days in Petersburg (Dugan et al. 2009).

An estimated 29,000 out-of-state residents visited Petersburg in summer 2006, about 2.5 percent of total 

visitors to Southeast Alaska (McDowell Group 2007). A study by the University of Alaska Institute of 

Social and Economic Research estimated that 13,000 visitors participated in nature-based tourism in 

Petersburg in 2007, bringing in an estimated $2.7 million in gross revenues, with most of this revenue 

related to fishing lodges and charters (Dugan et al. 2009). Other nature-based tourism activities include 

whale watching in Frederick Sound, LeConte Glacier tours, and flightseeing and air services, including 

wilderness drop-offs.

Petersburg offers more unguided recreation opportunities than many other Southeast Alaska communities. 

Fishing and boating opportunities are available in protected waters close to town and the developed road 

system around Mitkof Island includes 22 miles of paved road, as well as 200 miles of logging roads. 

Petersburg also offers opportunities for unguided hiking, with at least 25 hiking trails located on the 

Petersburg Ranger District, including 7 trails on Mitkof Island that can be accessed by road.

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum

The ROS system is a land classification system developed by the Forest Service to help identify and 

describe possible combinations of recreation activities, settings, and experiences for management 

purposes (USDA Forest Service 1982). The ROS system portrays the appropriate combination of 

activities, settings, and experiences along a continuum that ranges from primitive to highly modified 

environments. Seven classifications are identified along this continuum: 

• Primitive (P)

• Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized (SPNM)

• Semi-Primitive Motorized (SPM)

• Roaded Natural (RN)

• Roaded Modified (RM)

• Rural (R)

• Urban (U)

ROS classes represent a spectrum of possible experiences, from those with a high probability of selfreliance, solitude, challenge, and risk to those with a relatively high degree of interaction with other 

people. The settings, activities, and probable recreation experience opportunities associated with each 

ROS setting are described in Appendix I to the 2008 Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service 2008a).
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Recreation ▪ 3-201

The ROS is not a management system and does not specify or prescribe what types of activities are 

allowed in an area. The LUDs assigned in the Forest Plan prescribe allowable management activities, 

along with Federal, State, and local laws and regulations. Therefore, if a LUD allows for increased 

development, timber harvest, or increased recreation use, then the descriptive ROS character may change 

to reflect the new development. Since expanded development is allowed within the analysis area based 

on the area’s LUDs, a change in ROS setting is allowed as a management objective of the existing plan. 

In addition, changes to existing ROS allocations were anticipated as part of the management objectives 

and direction incorporated in the Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service 2008c).

The recreation analysis area encompasses approximately 520,000 acres, including approximately 40,000 

acres of non-NFS lands. These non-NFS lands are not included in the ROS analysis, leaving 

approximately 479,000 acres of NFS land within the analysis area. One-quarter of this area (25.4 percent) 

has been inventoried as RM (Table REC-1). Community road systems, including the existing networks of 

Forest Service roads, provide access to developed and dispersed recreation opportunities in these areas. 

The SPNM setting accounts for about 41 percent of the analysis area, with the P and SPM settings 

accounting for about 19 percent and 14 percent, respectively. The areas inventoried as P and SPNM, 

where opportunities for more remote recreation are available, largely coincide with the Petersburg CreekDuncan Salt Chuck Wilderness (which would not be crossed by any of the alternatives) and the 

Inventoried Roadless Areas in the recreation analysis area. The areas inventoried as SPM are primarily 

located along coastlines and other waterways (Figure REC-1). The remaining land in the analysis area, 

approximately 3 percent, has been inventoried as RN (1.2 percent) and R (< 0.1 percent) (Table REC-1). 

The RN areas are located along the shoreline near Sandy Beach. The R areas are located either side of 

Petersburg Creek and generally coincide with the city of Kupreanof (Figure REC-1). 

Table REC-1. ROS Designations within the Analysis Area

ROS Class Acres Percent of Analysis Area

Primitive (P) 92,416 19.3

Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized (SPNM) 194,840 40.7

Semi-Primitive Motorized (SPM) 64,518 13.5

Roaded Natural (RN) 5,638 1.2

Roaded Modified (RM) 121,691 25.4

Rural (R) 180 0.0

Total 479,283 100.0

Notes:

1/ ROS designations are presented for NFS lands within the analysis area only.

2/ The Recreation analysis area consists of the 18 VCUs in the KPI project area (Figure 1-2) plus VCU 4270 (Figure REC-1).

Recreation Places and Sites

The majority of the Tongass National Forest is undeveloped and primarily used for dispersed recreation 

activities. Viewing scenery and wildlife, boating, fishing, beachcombing, hiking, and hunting are the 

primary dispersed recreation activities that take place on the Forest. While most areas of the Forest have 

the potential to provide recreation opportunities to a varying degree, patterns of use tend to be associated 

with existing road systems, known protected boat anchorages, boat landings, and aircraft landing sites. 

These types of locations, with one or more physical characteristics that are particularly attractive to 

people for recreation activities, were identified as recreation places as part of the planning analysis for the 

1997 Forest Plan and incorporated as part of the process that resulted in the current Forest Plan (USDA 

Forest Service 2008a). 

Four main types of recreation places were identified: marine, hunting, fishing, and tourism (USDA Forest 

Service 2008a). In the analysis area, marine recreation places are located at Portage Bay, Big John Bay, 

Petersburg Creek, and along Duncan Canal, near the Castle Islands. Recreation places important for 
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hunting include the same area near the Castle Islands, Big John Bay, and the area that extends along the 

northern reaches of Duncan Canal and between Duncan Canal and Portage Bay. The area near the Castle 

Islands and Petersburg Creek are also identified as fishing recreation places. Tourism recreation places 

are located along Petersburg Creek, Portage Bay, and Big John Bay.

The types of recreation in and around the analysis area consists of dispersed, water oriented activities 

located in Duncan Canal and Wrangell Narrows, and vehicle oriented activities such as hunting and 

freshwater fishing accessed from the Tonka road system. Additional pursuits include wildlife viewing, 

charter boat sightseeing, sea kayaking, mountain biking, and hiking. There are numerous private 

residences and cabins along the east shoreline of Wrangell Narrows. Much of the recreational use in the 

east portion of the analysis area is accessed from surrounding Forest Service recreation cabins or from 

Petersburg by boat and involves fishing and hunting. The Kake road system provides access to recreation 

opportunities in the west portion of the analysis area, including a number of developed sites.

Recreation sites are specific sites and/or facilities where recreation activities are localized. Recreation 

sites include, but are not limited to, developed recreation sites, such as trails, picnic sites, campsites, 

interpretive sites, and Forest Service cabins. They also include undeveloped sites with significant natural 

features like waterfalls or geologic formations that are destinations for National Forest visitors. Like 

recreation places, developed and undeveloped recreation sites on the Tongass were identified as part of 

the planning process for the 1997 Forest Plan. Developed recreation sites are identified by name in 

Figure REC-2. Recreation sites are discussed in the following sections.

Developed Recreation Sites

A total of 24 developed recreation sites are located on NFS lands in the analysis area (Table REC-2; 

Figure REC-2). These sites are mainly Forest Service recreation cabins, trails, and shelters. The Seal 

Point Recreation Area is also located within the analysis area. In addition to these developed sites located 

on NFS lands, there are also two parks in Petersburg located in close proximity to one or more of the 

alternatives. These parks—Outlook Park and Sandy Beach Park—are included in Table REC-2.

Table REC-2. Developed Recreation Sites in the Project Area

Trails Cabins Shelters Other Recreation Sites

Big John Bay Trail Big John Bay Cabin Frenchy Ridge Shelter Outlook Park1/

Castle River Trail Breiland Slough Cabin Twin Creek Shelter Sandy Beach Park1/

Cathedral Falls Trail Castle Flats Cabin Warm Fish Lake Shelter Seal Point Recreation Area

Colp Lake Trail Castle River Cabin

Goose Lake Trail Petersburg Lake Cabin

Hamilton Creek Trail Portage Bay Cabin

Petersburg Lake Trail Raven's Roost Cabin

Petersburg Mountain Trail Salt Chuck East Cabin

Portage Mountain Loop 

Trail

Towers Arm Cabin

Raven Trail West Point Cabin

Note:

1/ Outlook Park and Sandy Beach Park are owned and operated by the Petersburg Borough. The other 24 developed recreation 

sites identified above are on NFS lands.
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Trails

Big John Bay Trail

The 2.1-mile-long Big John Bay Trail is located on the northeast side of Big John Bay, on the west side of 

Kupreanof Island. The trail begins at FR 45001 and ends at Big John Bay Cabin. The trailhead is 

approximately 16 miles from Kake and may be accessed via Forest Service roads. Alternative 4 parallels 

FR 45001 and would pass within 0.5 mile of the Big John Bay Trailhead.

Castle River Trail

The Castle River Trail is located on Kupreanof Island, on the west side of Duncan Canal, approximately 

16 air miles or 30 water miles southwest of Petersburg. The 1.1-mile-long Castle River Trail extends 

from Castle Flats Cabin to the Castle River boat tie up site. The trail leads to several fishing spots along 

the river, which supports runs of silver salmon and steelhead. The area is also popular for moose, bear, 

and waterfowl hunting. Alternative 4 passes approximately 5 miles north of this trail.

Cathedral Falls Trail

The Cathedral Falls Trail is located about 8 miles southeast of Kake and accessed via the Kake to Seal 

Point Road (FR 6040) and FR 6314. The 0.25-mile-long trail extends from the end of FR 6314 to the 

falls on Cathedral Falls Creek. Cathedral Falls is popular for trout and salmon fishing. All three action 

alternatives pass approximately 0.5 mile northwest of this trail. 

Colp Lake Trail

The 2.1-mile-long Colp Lake Trail begins at the mouth of Fivemile Creek, on the shores of Frederick 

Sound, and passes through muskeg and a small stand of timber, ending at Colp Lake. Located about 5 

miles north of Petersburg, the trailhead may be accessed via boat or floatplane to the mouth of Fivemile 

Creek. The Northern Route corridor (Alternatives 2 and 3) crosses this trail.

Goose Lake Trail

The Goose Lake Trail is a 0.6-mile gravel trail that begins at the parking lot at the FR 6030 parking lot 

trailhead and ends at Goose Lake. The lake is popular for trout fishing, moose hunting, waterfowl 

hunting, and winter cross-country skiing. Short parts of the trail are boardwalk. All three alternatives 

follow FR 6030 and pass in close proximity to the Goose Lake Trailhead.

Hamilton Creek Trail

The Hamilton Creek Trail is located on northwest Kupreanof Island, near Hamilton Bay. The 0.6-milelong trail begins at FR 6314 and ends at Hamilton Creek. The trailhead is approximately 13 miles from 

Kake and may be accessed via Forest Service roads. Alternative 4 parallels FRs 6040 and 6314 and 

would pass in close proximity to the Hamilton Creek Trailhead.

Petersburg Lake Trail

The Petersburg Lake and Petersburg Mountain Trailheads are located on Kupreanof Island near the State 

Dock. The Petersburg Lake Trail extends 10.5 miles from the trailhead to Petersburg Lake Cabin. Four 

miles up the Creek from the Dock is the high tide trail head and the entrance to the Petersburg Creek –

Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness. From the high tide trailhead, follow the trail through the forest and 

muskeg for 6.5 miles to Petersburg Lake and cabin. At its closest point, this trail is about 1.9 miles and 

2.3 miles west of Alternatives 2 and 3, respectively.

Petersburg Mountain Trail

The 3.6-mile-long Petersburg Mountain Trail begins at the shared trailhead near the State Dock in 

Kupreanof and ends on the top of Petersburg Mountain. The trail offers views of Petersburg and the 

surrounding bays and glaciers. Alternatives 2 and 3 cross the mouth of Wrangell Narrows northeast of 
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the trail, coming ashore near Prolewy Point, approximately 0.7 mile and 0.8 mile from the trail at their 

closest respective points.

Portage Mountain Loop Trail

The 11-mile-long Portage Mountain Loop Trail begins at the Petersburg Lake Cabin. The trail extends northwest 

from the cabin to Portage Bay and follows the south shoreline of the bay, before heading south to end at the Salt 

Chuck East Cabin. The trail is unmaintained with occasional blue diamonds for guidance. The Northern Route 

corridor (Alternatives 2 and 3) crosses the Portage Mountain Loop Trail twice near Portage Bay.

Raven Trail

The Raven Trail begins near the east side of Petersburg Airport and extends 4.2 miles to Raven's Roost Cabin, 

passing south of the airport. The trail can be accessed from Haugen Drive or Sandy Beach Road or via the Twin 

Ridge Ski Trail. The Northern Alternative corridor (Alternatives 2 and 3) crosses the Raven Trail.

Twin Ridge Ski Trail and Upper Twin Ski Trail

These two ski trails are both located on Mitkof Island and connect other existing developed recreation 

facilities (Figure REC-2). The Upper Twin Ski Trail runs approximately 2.1 miles between Twin Creek 

Shelter and Frenchy Ridge Shelter. The Twin Ridge Ski Trail continues from Twin Creek Shelter and 

extends about 4.5 miles to Raven’s Roost Cabin. Alternative 4 would originate approximately 1.5 miles 

west of these trails at its closest point.

Unnamed Trail to Green Rocks Lake

In addition to the above named trails, an unnamed trail is located on the west shore of the Wrangell 

Narrows on Kupreanof Island, approximately 3.2 miles south of Alternative 4. This trail is approximately 

1-mile-long and provides access to Green Rocks Lake (Figure REC-2).

Cabins

There are currently 20 public use Forest Service cabins on the Petersburg Ranger District. Ten of these

cabins are located in the analysis area. Use for recreation cabins is recorded by reserved nights at each 

cabin. Use data are presented for the 10 cabins in the analysis area in Table REC-3. Use in 2013 ranged 

from 9 reserved nights at the Towers Arm Cabin to 121 reserved nights at West Point Cabin. Viewed as a 

five year average, use ranged from an average of 11 reserved nights at the Towers Arm Cabin to 104 

reserved nights at West Point Cabin (Table REC-3). 

Table REC-3. Estimated Use of Forest Service Cabins in the Analysis Area, 2008–2012

Cabin 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 5-Year Average

Big John Bay 39 55 44 48 71 51

Breiland Slough 91 66 57 49 61 65

Castle Flats 73 69 49 47 45 57

Castle River 89 89 82 78 94 86

Petersburg Lake 81 82 85 68 72 78

Portage Bay 38 42 39 33 29 36

Ravens Roost 14 26 31 34 18 25

Salt Chuck 42 37 75 71 66 58

Towers Arm 15 7 11 14 9 11

West Point 85 108 104 103 121 104

Note:

1/ Use is recorded in reserved nights per cabin.

Source: USDA Forest Service 2014a
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Big John Bay Cabin

This single-level, hunter-style cabin is located on the northeast side of Big John Bay, on the west side of 

Kupreanof Island. The cabin is situated on a small wooded point that faces a large expanse of tidal grass 

and saltwater flats. The cabin can be accessed by boat or trail from the town of Kake or by float plane 

from Petersburg. The 2.1-mile-long Big John Bay Trail connects the cabin to FR 45001. A 15-foot tide 

is required for boats or float planes to directly access the cabin. The cabin provides access to grouse and 

waterfowl hunting. Alternative 4 passes approximately 1.4 miles northeast of this cabin.

Breiland Slough Cabin

The Breiland Slough single level hunter style cabin is located approximately 16 air miles or 30 water 

miles southwest of Petersburg on Kupreanof Island, on the west side of Duncan Canal near the Castle 

Islands. Situated on a small spit of land, the cabin is surrounded by forest and grass flats. The cabin 

offers access to king salmon, halibut, and crab fishing from the gravel beach in front of the cabin. The 

cabin is accessible by boat or float plane from Petersburg or Wrangell. Alternative 4 passes 

approximately 5 miles north of this cabin.

Castle Flats Cabin

The Castle Flats single-level, hunter-style cabin is located approximately 16 air miles or 30 water miles 

southwest of Petersburg on Kupreanof Island, on the west side of Duncan Canal. The cabin is situated on 

the edge of the mud flats of Castle River. The surrounding area is predominantly flat with old growth 

forest, muskeg, and riparian vegetation cover. The cabin is accessible only by boat or float plane from 

Petersburg or Wrangell and a 13-foot tide is required for boats or float planes to directly access the cabin. 

The cabin provides access to black bear, moose, deer, grouse, and waterfowl hunting, and also offers bird 

and wildlife watching opportunities. Alternative 4 passes about 5 miles north of this cabin.

Castle River Cabin

The Castle River modified A-frame style cabin is located approximately 1 mile from the Castle Flats 

Cabin at the mouth of the Castle River on west side of Duncan Canal on Kupreanof Island. The area near 

the cabin is predominantly flat to rolling with muskeg and old growth forest. The cabin is accessible only 

by boat or float plane from Petersburg or Wrangell and a 13-foot tide is required for boats or float planes 

to directly access the cabin. The cabin provides access to steelhead and coho salmon fishing near the 

cabin and upstream. It also provides access to black bear, moose, deer, grouse, and waterfowl hunting. 

The Castle River and Castle Flats cabins are connected by the 1.1-mile-long Castle River Trail. 

Alternative 4 passes approximately 5.2 miles north of this cabin.

Petersburg Lake Cabin

The Petersburg Lake wooden pan-abode style cabin is located on the southeast end of Petersburg Lake. 

This cabin is located in the Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness, which is managed for 

natural conditions. Motorized equipment or mechanized transportation are not allowed with the 

exceptions of motorized boats or airplanes. The area around the lake and creek is flat, but surrounded by 

steep terrain. Access is provided by the 10.5-mile-long Petersburg Lake Trail with extends along 

Petersburg Creek from the Kupreanof State Dock to the cabin. Cutthroat trout and sockeye salmon can be 

fished in Petersburg Lake, and steelhead, coho, sockeye, and pink salmon fishing is available in the creek. 

The Forest Service provides a rowboat for cabin users to access areas across Petersburg Lake. The closest 

alternative corridor to this cabin (the Northern Route corridor) passes approximately 4.2 miles to the 

north.

Portage Bay Cabin

The Portage Bay single-level, hunter-style cabin is located on the east shore of Portage Bay on northern 

Kupreanof Island. The area is hilly along the eastern shore of Portage Bay, and flat and rolling south and 
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west of the bay. The cabin provides access to king salmon, halibut, and crab fishing in front of the cabin, 

as well as elsewhere in Portage Bay and Frederick Sound. Black bear and deer hunting is also available 

in the vicinity of the cabin. The closest alternative corridor to this cabin (the Northern Route corridor) 

passes approximately 2.0 miles to the south.

Raven's Roost Cabin

The Raven's Roost alpine cabin is located on Mitkof Island, on a mountain ridge behind the Petersburg 

Airport. The ridge near the cabin is flat muskeg; otherwise the surrounding terrain is steep mountain 

slope. The cabin can be accessed via the 4.2-mile-long Raven Trail, which begins near the east side of the 

airport. Access is also provided by skiing 5.4 miles up the undeveloped and primitive Twin Ridge Ski 

Trail from the Twin Creek Road. This cabin is located approximately 1.2 miles southeast of the existing 

SEAPA substation where Alternatives 2 and 3 would originate.

Salt Chuck East Cabin

The Salt Chuck East modified A-frame cabin is located on the east side of Duncan Canal Salt Chuck on 

northern Kupreanof Island, approximately 15 air miles and 40 water miles from Petersburg. The cabin is 

located in the Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness, which is managed for natural conditions. 

Motorized equipment or mechanized transportation are not allowed with the exceptions of motorized 

boats or airplanes. The area surrounding the cabin is flat and wooded. The 11-mile-long primitive 

Portage Mountain Loop Trail connects the Salt Chuck East Cabin with Portage Bay and Petersburg Lake. 

The cabin provides access to coho fishing in nearby saltwater, as well as grouse and waterfowl hunting 

opportunities. The closest alternative corridor to this cabin (the Northern Route corridor) crosses 

approximately 3.4 miles to the north.

Towers Arm Cabin

The Towers Arm single-level, hunter-style cabin is located on Kupreanof Island on the west side of 

Towers Arm in Duncan Canal. Access is via boat or floatplane, with a 15-foot tide required for boat 

access and a 16-foot tide required for floatplanes. The cabin provides access to steelhead and coho 

fishing in the adjacent Towers Creek. It also provides access to black bear and deer hunting. The 

Northern Route corridor (Alternatives 2 and 3) passes approximately 6.8 miles to the north; the CenterSouth Route corridor (Alternative 4) passes about 5.1 miles to the south of this cabin.

West Point Cabin

The West Point A-frame cabin is located at the mouth of Portage Bay on the north end of Kupreanof 

Island. The area surrounding the cabin is flat with a mixed spruce and hemlock forest. There are large 

expanses of gravel beach near the cabin. Portage Bay is a protected bay suitable for use by small nonmotorized craft and kayaks. The cabin provides access to king salmon, halibut, and crab fishing in front 

of the cabin and in Portage Bay and Frederick Sound. Frederick Sound also provides opportunities for 

humpback whale viewing. The closest alternative corridor to this cabin (the Northern Route corridor) 

crosses approximately 4.9 miles to the south.

Shelters

Frenchy Ridge Shelter

The Frenchy Ridge Shelter is a three-sided Adirondack-style shelter, located on Mitkof Island, 

approximately 10 miles south of Petersburg. The surrounding area is forest and muskeg. The shelter may

be accessed by motor vehicle via Forest Roads and the Twin-Frenchy Snowmobile Trail. The proposed 

tap location for Alternative 4 is located approximately 2.3 miles west of this shelter.
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Twin Creek Shelter

The Twin Creek Shelter is a three-sided Adirondack-style shelter located just off Twin Creek Road. The 

surrounding area is forest and muskeg. The shelter is located on Mitkof Island, approximately 6 miles 

south of Petersburg. The shelter may be accessed by motor vehicle via Twin Creek Road. The shelter is 

located approximately 2.7 miles northeast for Alternative 4.

Warm Fish Lake Shelter

The Warm Fish Lake Shelter is a three-sided shelter located on the Lindenberg Peninsula, east of Duncan 

Canal. The shelter provides access to trout fishing opportunities on Warm Fish Lake. Alternative 4 

passes approximately 4.2 miles south of this shelter.

Other Developed Recreation Sites

Outlook Park

Outlook Park is located on the beach side of Sandy Beach Road. The park was developed by the city of 

Petersburg in 2003 and is now managed by the recently formed Petersburg Borough. The park includes a 

gazebo and offers benches, public beach access, and views of Frederick Sound and the coastal range. 

Interpretive panels provide information on humpback and orca whales as well as other marine mammals 

that frequent Frederick Sound (Petersburg Borough 2013). The horizontal directional bore proposed as 

part of Alternative 2 would originate in the vicinity of Outlook Park.

Sandy Beach Park

Sandy Beach Park is a day use picnic area located at the end of Sandy Beach Road. The park is managed 

by the Petersburg Borough. Situated on a small cove, the park includes three enclosed shelters with 

tables, two of them with large stone fireplaces, public restrooms, a play area for children, horseshoe pits, 

and a sand volleyball court. Abundant sea life and ancient petroglyphs and fish traps are visible at low 

tides (Petersburg Borough 2013). The submarine cable crossing proposed as part of Alternative 3 would 

originate in the vicinity of Sandy Beach Park.

Seal Point Recreation Area

Located about 8.5 miles southeast of Kake, the Seal Point Recreation Area may be accessed by motor 

vehicle via the Kake to Seal Point Road (FR 6040). The area is primarily used for recreation and 

subsistence fishing, big game and waterfowl hunting, picnicking, and berry picking, with day and 

overnight use. As of 2012, the area consisted of a boat ramp, originally built in 1998, and two cleared 

areas used for parking. A NEPA EA was completed for the Seal Point Recreation Enhancement Project. 

The proposed enhancements include: development of two day use areas, each with a single bathroom, 

picnic shelter, fire ring and/or pedestal grill, and picnic tables; reconstruction and extension of the 

existing boat ramp; and conversion and expansion of existing clearings into parking areas (USDA Forest 

Service 2012e). One of the proposed day use areas and the existing boat ramp are located on Little 

Hamilton Island, which is accessed via a land bridge road. The Seal Point Recreation Enhancement 

Project is expected to be completed by September 2014. All three action alternatives follow the Kake to 

Seal Point Road (FR 6040) and would pass in close proximity to the Seal Point Recreation Area. Further, 

all three action alternatives would likely use the Little Hamilton Bay LTF, which is located on the other 

side of Little Hamilton Island from the boat ramp and day use area.

Forest Roads and Off-Highway Vehicle Use

The NFS road systems in the project area are used for recreation, hunting and fishing, and subsistence 

activities (USDA Forest Service 2009a). Four NFS road systems are located within the KPI project area: 

the Mitkof road system on Mitkof Island and the Tonka, Portage, and Kake road systems on Kupreanof 
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Island. These road systems are discussed in more detail in the Transportation section of this EIS and 

shown on Figure TRAN-1 in that section.

Most of the developed recreation on Mitkof Island is accessible to passenger vehicles on ML 3 roads, 

which are suitable for low clearance vehicles. The Mitkof Highway provides direct access to ML 3 roads 

at multiple locations. The ML 3 road system also provides access to dispersed recreation opportunities 

and is an important winter recreation resource for Petersburg residents. OHVs are mainly used on these 

roads for game retrieval in the fall (USDA Forest Service 2009a).

The Kake road system on Kupreanof Island provides access to developed recreation facilities, including

Big John Bay Cabin, Seal Point boat ramp and picnic area, Cathedral Falls Trail, Hamilton Trail, and 

Goose Lake Trail. The Portage road system accesses the Portage Bay cabin, although the primary access 

to the cabin is by boat. The Tonka road system provides access to the Warm Fish Lake Shelter. Primary 

access to the road systems on Kupreanof Island is from MAFs. Recreation use on those areas accessed by 

the road systems on Kupreanof Island is low, with most of the use occurring during hunting season. The 

Tonka, Portage, and Kake road systems provide opportunities for road-related access to dispersed uses in 

undeveloped settings as well as opportunities involving wheeled vehicles. The Kake road system also 

gets substantial use from local residents and from visitors accessing the road system from the ferry 

(USDA Forest Service 2009a). 

The use of OHVs is a growing activity on the Tongass. Use is limited by topography, dense vegetation, 

and wet soils. These types of vehicles are most frequently used on road systems connected to 

communities, with riders seeking out primitive roads or spur roads. State of Alaska OHV laws state that 

OHVs may not be used on any state highway or open road connected to a state highway. 

The Forest Service addressed OHV use on the Petersburg Ranger District through the Access Travel 

Management Plan process. The DN/FONSI for the Petersburg Ranger District Access and Travel

Management Plan EA was issued in 2009 (USDA Forest Service 2009b). This DN/FONSI designated 

roads, trails, and areas that are open to public motor vehicles on the Petersburg Ranger District and an 

MVUM was prepared based on this decision. The decision and resulting MVUM also closed remaining 

routes and areas on the Districts to various forms of motorized subsistence access under ANILCA Section 

811(b) (USDA Forest Service 2009b).4

 According to the January 2013 MVUM for the Petersburg Ranger 

District, the Mitkof, Tonka, Portage, and Kake road systems are open to all motor vehicles, including 

smaller OHVs that may not be licensed for highway use (USDA Forest Service 2014b). One exception is 

FR 6040 (Kake Road), which is open to highway legal vehicles only from Kake until it intersects with FR 

6030, east of Hamilton Bay.

Outfitter/Guides and Special Use Permits 

Several commercial outfitters/guides are authorized to use the analysis area for a variety of uses, 

including fishing, sightseeing, and hunting. A total of 1,407 service days were used in 2013. Use over 

the past 6 years has ranged from 1,322 service days in 2012 to 1,767 service days in 2008 (Table REC-4). 

The number of outfitter/guides using the analysis area averaged 16 each year from 2010 through 2013. 

General outfitter/guide locations, activities, and primary seasons of use are summarized in Table REC-5.

 4 MVUMs for the Tongass National Forest are updated annually in January and available at Ranger District offices 

or online (http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/tongass/maps-pubs/?cid=stelprdb5430063).
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Table REC-4. Outfitter/Guide Use in the Analysis Area, 2007–2013

Year Number of Service Days1/

2007 1,571

2008 1,767

2009 1,493

2010 1,346

2011 1,518

2012 1,322

2013 1,407

Note:

1/ A service day is a day, or any part of a day, that an 

outfitted/guided client is on National Forest System land. 

Source: USDA Forest Service 2014c

Table REC-5. General Outfitter/Guide Locations and Activities

General Location Outfitter/Guide Activities Primary Season of Use

Big John Bay Black bear hunting, wolf hunting, non-hunters 

accompanying hunters

April, May, June, September

Duncan Canal Black bear hunting, wolf hunting April, May

Camping, freshwater fishing, hiking, sightseeing July, August

Hamilton Bay Black bear hunting, wolf hunting, non-hunters 

accompanying hunters

April, May, June, September

Lindenberg 

Peninsula

Black bear hunting, wolf hunting, deer hunting April, May, June, September

Camping, sightseeing June, July, August

North Keku Strait Black bear hunting, wolf hunting, non-hunters 

accompanying hunters

April, May, June

Camping, hiking, sightseeing June, July 

North Kupreanof 

Island

Black bear hunting, wolf hunting, deer hunting April, May, June, September

Camping, freshwater fishing, hiking, sightseeing, outfitting 

kayaks

June, July, August

Petersburg Creek Freshwater fishing April, May

Hiking, sightseeing May, June, July, August, 

September

Portage Bay Black bear hunting, wolf hunting, deer hunting, May, June, September

Camping, hiking, sightseeing, outfitting kayaks May, June, July, August

Wrangell Narrows No reported outfitter/guide use. None

Source: USDA Forest Service 2014c

A private individual is currently authorized to maintain a tent platform near Duncan Creek for noncommercial fishing and hunting. Another individual is authorized to maintain a tent platform near Irish 

Lakes. There are also eight privately owned cabins located on NFS lands in the analysis area. These 

cabins are authorized for use under special use permit. Three of these cabins are located near Duncan 

Canal, four are located near Petersburg Creek, and one is located near Portage Bay (USDA Forest Service

2014c). 

Environmental Effects

The analysis area for direct, indirect, and cumulative effects to recreation is the KPI project area. Effects 

are discussed in terms of changes in the ROS settings in the analysis area, as well as potential impacts to 

Recreation Places and Sites, OHV Use, and Outfitter/Guides and Special Use Permits. Changes in ROS 

settings are quantified in acres; other potential impacts are discussed in qualitative terms.
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Effects Common to All Action Alternatives

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum

The distribution of ROS settings in the analysis area would change under all of the action alternatives 

(Table REC-6). Viewed in terms of the analysis area, the resulting changes would represent a small share 

of the affected settings under any of the alternatives. Change to existing ROS settings would occur where 

land allocated to the SPNM, SPM, and RN ROS settings are within 0.5 mile of a new shovel trail or the 

Table REC-6. ROS Settings by Alternative

ROS Setting

Alternative

1 2 3 4

Primitive (P) 92,416 92,416 92,416 92,416

Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized (SPNM) 194,840 194,751 194,751 194,717

Semi-Primitive Motorized (SPM) 64,518 64,282 64,282 64,399

Roaded Natural (RN) 5,638 5,545 5,545 5,638

Roaded Modified (RM) 121,691 122,108 122,108 121,932

Rural (R) 180 180 180 180

Grand Total 479,283 479,283 479,283 479,283

Net Change in Acres

SPNM to RM 0 89 89 123

SPM to RM 0 235 235 118

RN to RM 0 92 92 0

Total Acres Changed to RM 0 417 417 241

Note:

1/ Totals may not sum due to rounding.

proposed transmission line right-of-way. These areas would change to RM. Change from a more 

primitive ROS represents a change in recreation resources in the affected areas. People are likely to have 

a different type of recreation experience in these areas following the proposed project’s construction.

Recreation Places and Sites

The action alternatives could potentially result in short- and long-term impacts to recreation places and 

sites. Short-term impacts would result from the presence of construction crews and equipment on roads 

in the analysis area, which may have temporary impacts on recreation access, and could also affect the 

quality of the recreation experience in affected areas. The presence of these crews and equipment and the 

noise associated with their activities are likely to have effects on the quality of the recreation experience 

in adjacent and nearby areas. These types of impacts would generally be limited to the immediate area of 

activity and limited in duration. Recreation users engaged in dispersed recreation activities, like hunting, 

fishing, and OHV use, would likely be temporarily displaced to other similar locations in the general 

vicinity.

There would be no long-term changes in motorized access under any of the action alternatives. No new 

roads are proposed under any of the action alternatives, and the proposed shovel trails and temporary 

access spurs would be decommissioned following construction. It is possible that hikers and hunters 

could hike along the cleared right-of-way in areas where there are no existing roads. However, this type 

of use is not expected to noticeably change existing patterns of recreation use. 

Long-term impacts would result from changes in scenery as a result of right-of-way clearing and the 

presence of the transmission line. These impacts are likely to be greater for recreation places and sites 

located in more remote, pristine areas. The introduction of a transmission line and cleared right-of-way 

would likely be perceived negatively when viewed from recreation places and sites such as cabins and 
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trails by recreationists expecting a natural, undisturbed landscape. In recreation places and sites where 

there has already been an alteration to the landscape from timber harvest activities and related road 

development, the presence of a transmission line would not contrast with the adjacent landscape as much 

as it would in undisturbed areas. However, unlike timber harvest units, right-of-way clearing would be 

maintained for the life of the proposed transmission line.

Forest Roads and Off-Highway Vehicle Use

The action alternatives would all follow existing Forest Roads. All three action alternatives would follow 

FR 6040, the main road leading out from Kake. The road forks approximately 10 miles southeast of 

Kake. At that point, the alternative corridors diverge. The Northern Route corridor (Alternatives 2 and 3) 

follows the north fork—FR 6030—which extends east toward Portage Bay. The Center-South Route 

corridor (Alternative 4) follows the south fork. These roads are heavily used by Kake residents and 

visitors for recreation. Alternatives 2 and 3 also follow part of the Portage road system (FR 6319) (see 

Figures 2-1 and TRAN-1). Alternative 4 follows the Tonka road system (FR 6350) across the southern 

part of the Lindenberg Peninsula (Figures 2-2 and TRAN-1). 

The action alternatives would likely require temporary closure of parts of these road systems to allow safe 

access for construction equipment and crews. Vegetation clearing would be apparent to users of the 

affected roads. Long-term visual impacts would result where the proposed transmission line is adjacent to 

an existing road. The poles and conductors would be visible, as would the cleared right-of-way, which 

would be maintained for the life of the proposed project.

There would be no new roads constructed under any of the alternatives. The proposed temporary shovel 

trails and temporary access spurs would be decommissioned following construction. Public motorized 

traffic on temporary shovel trails and access spurs proposed under this project would be prohibited. This 

prohibition would include OHVs. Non-motorized (i.e., bicycles, pedestrians, etc.) use during and after 

project construction would also be discouraged. 

Outfitter/Guides and Special Use Permits 

Several commercial outfitters/guides are authorized to use the analysis area for a variety of uses, 

including fishing, sightseeing, and hunting. As noted above, this number has averaged 16 each year from 

2010 through 2013. The total numbers of annual service days are identified for 2007 through 2013 in 

Table REC-4. Increased traffic and temporary road closures could have an impact on the locations that 

outfitter/guides choose for access. These impacts would be localized and temporary. None of the 

proposed alternatives are expected to result in long-term impacts to the ability of outfitter/guides to use 

these areas. The distant sound of construction equipment may be occasionally apparent in some 

locations, but would not be expected to noticeably change the recreation experience in areas away from 

the road systems and the transmission line right-of-way.

A private individual is currently authorized to maintain a tent platform near Duncan Creek for noncommercial fishing and hunting. Another individual is authorized to maintain a tent platform near Irish 

Lakes. There are also eight privately owned cabins located on NFS lands in the analysis area. These 

cabins are authorized for use under special use permit. Three of these cabins are located near Duncan 

Canal, four are located near Petersburg Creek, and one is located near Portage Bay (USDA Forest Service 

2014c). The closest cabin to Alternatives 2 and 3 is located near Portage Bay, approximately 3.3 miles 

north of the proposed alignment. Three privately owned cabins on Duncan Canal are located 

approximately the same distance from, and closest to, Alternative 4. These cabins are located 

approximately 2.6 miles north of the proposed Alternative 4 alignment. Alternative 4 passes closest to 

both of the tent platforms, passing approximately 3.4 miles south of the nearest one.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Recreation ▪ 3-213

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

The no action alternative would have no direct or indirect effects on scenic resources because there would 

be no new transmission line built under this alternative and no associated structure installation, use of 

helicopters, temporary shovel trails, or temporary access spurs, or vegetation clearing activities.

Cumulative Effects

The no action alternative would not contribute to cumulative effects on scenic resources because there 

would be no new transmission line built and no direct and indirect effects.

Alternative 2 – Proposed Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum

Under Alternative 2, an estimated total of 417 acres would change from the SPNM, SPM, and RN ROS 

settings to RM (Table REC-6). The largest change would occur to the SPM setting, with an estimated 

235 acres expected to change from the SPM ROS to RM; this represents just 0.4 percent of the total acres 

in the analysis area currently allocated to this ROS setting (Table REC-6).

Developed Recreation Sites 

The estimated distances between Alternative 2 and the developed recreation sites located in the recreation 

analysis area are summarized in Table REC-7. In addition to these sites on NFS lands, the proposed 

alternative would also pass close to Sandy Beach and Outlook Parks, which are managed by Petersburg 

Borough. The locations of the sites on NFS lands relative to the proposed alternative are shown in Figure 

REC-2. Short-term impacts resulting from the presence of construction crews and equipment would 

likely be greater to those sites located closer to the proposed transmission line alignment. This would 

particularly be the case for those sites that are accessed by roads that would be followed by the 

transmission line and/or used during transmission line construction. Under Alternative 2, these sites are 

Goose Lake Trail, the Seal Point Recreation Area, Sandy Beach Park, and Outlook Park. Short-term, 

project-related impacts to the Seal Point Recreation Area would likely include the use of the Little 

Hamilton Bay LTF, which is located on the same small island and uses the same land bridge road. 

Sources of short-term, construction-related impacts to Outlook Park would include the horizontal drilling 

process that would be used to place the transmission line beneath Wrangell Narrows. 

Table REC-7. Estimated Distance between Developed Recreation Sites and Alternatives 2

and 3

Site1/ Site Type Distance to Alternative (miles)

Colp Lake Trail (461) Trail 0.0

Goose Lake Trail (462) Trail 0.0

Portage Mountain Loop Trail (535) Trail 0.0

Raven Trail (607) Trail 0.0

Cathedral Falls Trail (467)2/ Trail 0.5

Petersburg Mountain Trail (585)3/ Trail 0.7

Twin Ridge Ski Trail (606) Trail 1.4

Petersburg Lake Trail (534)3/ Trail 1.9

Raven's Roost Cabin Cabin 1.2
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Table REC-7. Estimated Distance between Developed Recreation Sites and Alternatives 2 

and 3 (continued)

Site1/ Site Type Distance to Alternative (miles)

Portage Bay Cabin Cabin 2.0

Salt Chuck East Cabin Cabin 3.4

Petersburg Lake Cabin Cabin 4.2

West Point Cabin Cabin 4.9

Twin Creek Shelter Shelter 4.1

Seal Point Recreation Area2/ Other 0.9

Notes:

1/ These sites and distance are the same for both alternatives, except as noted.

2/ These distances are the same for both alternatives and Alternative 4, which all share a common alignment at these 

locations.

3/ These distances are from Alternative 2, which is slightly closer than Alternative 3 to these sites. The corresponding 

distances for Alternative 3 are: Petersburg Mountain Trail – 0.8 mile; Petersburg Lake Trail – 2.3 miles.

Long-term impacts would likely result from changes in scenery having detrimental effects on 

recreationists using the affected recreation sites. The majority of the developed sites in the analysis area 

are identified as VPRs in the 2008 Forest Plan and potential visual impacts are discussed to each site in 

the Scenery section of this EIS.

The proposed alternative would cross four trails: the Colp Lake, Goose Lake, Portage Mountain Loop, 

and Raven trails (Table REC-7). In all four cases, the proposed transmission line and right-of-way would 

be visible to recreationists using these trails. The introduction of the proposed transmission line is most 

likely to affect the quality of the recreation experience where it crosses the Colp Lake and Portage 

Mountain Loop trails because in both cases it would represent the introduction of a manmade feature into 

an otherwise mostly undisturbed landscape. These trails are among the least used on the District due to 

their remoteness. Other manmade features are present either at or near the other two trail crossings and in 

those cases the proposed transmission line would represent an incremental additional to the existing 

alternation of the landscape. The other two trails crossed (Goose Lake and Raven trails) are much more

popular because they are on road systems connected to communities.

Alternative 2 would also pass relatively close to four other trails: Cathedral Falls Trail, Petersburg 

Mountain Trail, Petersburg Lake Trail, and the Twin Ridge Ski Trail (Figure REC-2). Although 

relatively close, there would either be no long-term visual impacts to these trails or the potential impacts 

would be very low, as the proposed transmission line would either not be visible (Twin Ridge Ski Trail), 

viewed from a distance as part of an existing developed landscape (Petersburg Mountain and Petersburg 

Lake trails), or an incremental addition to an already altered landscape (Cathedral Falls Trail). 

Raven’s Roost Cabin, located south of the Petersburg airport and existing SEAPA substation is the closest 

Forest Service cabin to this alternative. The proposed transmission line is not expected to be visible from 

this cabin or from the Salt Chuck East or Petersburg Lake cabins. The proposed transmission line could 

be potentially visible from the Portage Bay Cabin, but at most would likely be perceived as a linear break 

in the forest approximately 2.6 miles from the viewer. Although theoretically visible from the West Point 

Cabin, the closest structures would be about 6.6 miles from the cabin and unlikely to be visible (see the 

Scenery section).

Alternative 2 passes relatively close to two other developed recreation sites on NFS lands, the Twin Creek 

Shelter and Seal Point Recreation Area. The proposed transmission line alignment is not expected to be 

visible from the Twin Creek Shelter. The proposed transmission line would follow FR 6040, which 

provides access from Kake to the Seal Point Recreation Area. The Seal Point Recreation Area is a 

developed recreation site accessed by road. The Little Hamilton Bay LTF is located on the same island. 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Recreation ▪ 3-215

The long-term presence of a transmission line along FR 6040 is not expected to affect the quality of the 

recreation experience at the Seal Point Recreation Area.

The presence of the proposed transmission line under this alternative is not expected to affect the quality 

of the recreation experience at Sandy Beach or Outlook Parks. Both parks are located in the developed 

part of Petersburg Borough (within the former city limits) and accessed via Sandy Beach Road. The 

proposed transmission line would not be visible from either park under this alternative. 

Cumulative Effects

In conjunction with other ongoing and reasonably foreseeable projects, this alternative is not expected to 

contribute to long-term changes to overall patterns of recreation use in the project area. Existing 

opportunities would continue to be available for those seeking remote and primitive recreation 

experiences and those seeking access to fishing and hunting opportunities would continue to have those 

opportunities. Similarly, opportunities to use existing developed recreation sites would also continue to 

be available.

One possible exception is the Kake Access Project, which could involve development of a year-round 

road from Kake to Petersburg and potentially result in long-term changes to patterns of recreation use, as 

motorized access would be available to areas that are currently remote and difficult to access. FHWA and 

ADOT&PF are presently conducting a transportation planning study for the Kake Access Project, with a 

Draft EIS expected to be available in 2016. The KPI Project would not directly contribute to these longterm changes were they to occur.

Short-term cumulative impacts could occur if one or more of the reasonably foreseeable projects were to 

coincide in time and space with the proposed project. This could result in additional temporary 

disruptions to recreation use and could affect the quality of the recreation experience in localized areas. 

These types of impacts would be limited to the duration of construction and related activities in a 

particular location.

Alternative 3 – Northern Route with Submarine Cable

Direct and Indirect Effects

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum

Under Alternative 3, an estimated total of 417 acres would change from the SPNM, SPM, and RN ROS 

settings to RM (Table REC-6). The largest change would occur to the SPM setting, with an estimated 

235 acres expected to change from the SPM ROS to RM; this represents just 0.4 percent of the total acres 

in the analysis area currently allocated to this ROS setting (Table REC-6).

Developed Recreation Sites 

The estimated distances between Alternative 3 and the developed recreation sites located in the recreation 

analysis area are summarized in Table REC-7. The locations of these sites relative to the alternative are 

shown in Figure REC-2. With two minor exceptions, the distance between Alternatives 2 and 3 and the 

existing developed recreation sites on NFS lands are the same and the above discussion for Alternative 2 

applies to this alternative also. The exceptions are the Petersburg Mountain Trail and Petersburg Lake 

Trail, which are slightly further from Alternative 3 (see Table REC-7, footnote 3). As with Alternative 2, 

the potential impacts to recreationists using these trails would be very low because the proposed 

transmission line, if visible at all, would be part of the existing developed landscape.

Alternatives 2 and 3 share the same alignment for the majority of their lengths (Figure 2-1). The only 

difference occurs in the vicinity of Sandy Beach Road in Petersburg. Alternative 2 would continue north 

from Sandy Beach Park to Outlook Park and then cross Wrangell Narrows. Alternative 3 would cross 
3 Environment and Effects

3-216 ▪ Chapter 3 – Recreation Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Frederick Sound near the mouth of Wrangell Narrows with a 3.1-mile-long submarine cable. The 

proposed crossing would originate to the southeast of Sandy Beach Park on borough-owned land. A 

small facility would be located on land to provide the interconnection of the submarine cable and the 

overhead line (Figure 2-9). Sources of short-term, construction-related impacts to Sandy Beach Park 

would include placement of the submarine cable and installation of the submarine cable termination 

facility. 

Cumulative Effects

In conjunction with other ongoing and reasonably foreseeable projects, this alternative is not expected to 

contribute to long-term changes to overall patterns of recreation use in the project area. Existing 

opportunities would continue to be available for those seeking remote and primitive recreation 

experiences and those seeking access to fishing and hunting opportunities would continue to have those 

opportunities. Similarly, opportunities to use existing developed recreation sites would also continue to 

be available.

One possible exception is the Kake Access Project, which could involve development of a year-round 

road from Kake to Petersburg and potentially result in long-term changes to patterns of recreation use, as 

motorized access would be available to areas that are currently remote and difficult to access. FHWA and 

ADOT&PF are presently conducting a transportation planning study for the Kake Access Project, with a 

Draft EIS expected to be available in 2016. The KPI Project would not directly contribute to these longterm changes were they to occur. 

Short-term cumulative impacts could occur if one or more of the reasonably foreseeable projects were to 

coincide in time and space with the project. This could result in additional temporary disruptions to 

recreation use and could affect the quality of the recreation experience in localized areas. These types of 

impacts would be limited to the duration of construction and related activities in a particular location.

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route

Direct and Indirect Effects

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum

Under Alternative 4, an estimated total of 241 acres would change from the SPNM, SPM, and RN ROS 

settings to RM (Table REC-6). The largest change would occur to the SPM setting, with an estimated 

118 acres expected to change from the SPM ROS to RM; this represents just 0.2 percent of the total acres 

in the analysis area currently allocated to this ROS setting (Table REC-6).

Developed Recreation Sites 

The estimated distances between Alternative 4 and the developed recreation sites located in the recreation 

analysis area are summarized in Table REC-8. The locations of these sites relative to the alternative are shown in 

Figure REC-2. Short-term impacts resulting from the presence of construction crews and equipment would likely 

be greater to those sites located closer to the proposed transmission line alignment. This would particularly be the 

case for those sites that are accessed by roads that would be followed by the transmission line and/or used during 

transmission line construction. Under Alternative 4, these sites are Big John Bay Trail, Cathedral Falls Trail, 

Hamilton Creek Trail, and Seal Point Recreation Area. Short-term, project-related impacts to the Seal Point 

Recreation Area would likely include the use of the Little Hamilton Bay LTF, which is located on the same small 

island and uses the same land bridge road. 

Long-term impacts would likely result from changes in scenery having detrimental effects on 

recreationists using the affected recreation sites. The majority of the developed sites in the analysis area 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Recreation ▪ 3-217

are identified as VPRs in the 2008 Forest Plan and potential visual impacts are discussed for each site in 

the Scenery section of this EIS.

The proposed alternative would either cross or be located directly across an existing road from the 

trailhead for three trails: Big John Bay, Cathedral Falls, and Hamilton Creek trails (Table REC-8). In all 

cases, the proposed transmission line and right-of-way would be visible to recreationists using these trails. 

However, the transmission line follows an existing road in these locations and the proposed alternative 

would represent an incremental additional to the existing alteration of the landscape. 

Alternative 4 would also pass relatively close to four other trails: Twin Ridge Ski Trail, Upper Twin Ski 

Trail, the unnamed trail to Green Rocks Lake, and the Castle River Trail (Table REC-8). Although 

relatively close, there would either be no long-term visual impacts to these trails or the potential impacts 

would be very low, as the proposed transmission line would either not be visible (Twin Ridge and Upper 

Twin ski trails) or very difficult to detect from more than 3 miles away (unnamed trail to Green Rocks 

Lake and Castle River Trail).

Table REC-8. Estimated Distance between Developed Recreation Sites and Alternative 4

Site Site Type

Distance to Alternative 

(miles)

Hamilton Creek Trail (463) Trail 0.0

Big John Bay Trail (465) Trail 0.3

Cathedral Falls Trail (467)1/ Trail 0.5

Twin Ridge Ski Trail (606) Trail 1.5

Upper Twin Ski Trail (605) Trail 2.7

Unnamed Trail to Green Rocks Lake (483) Trail 3.2

Castle River Trail (459) Trail 5.0

Big John Bay Cabin Cabin 1.6

Raven's Roost Cabin Cabin 3.3

Breiland Slough Cabin Cabin 5.0

Castle Flats Cabin Cabin 5.0

Towers Arm Cabin Cabin 5.1

Castle River Cabin Cabin 5.2

Frenchy Ridge Shelter Shelter 2.3

Twin Creek Shelter Shelter 2.7

Warm Fish Lake Shelter Shelter 4.2

Seal Point Recreation Area1/ Other 0.9

Notes:

1/ These distances are the same for all three alternatives, which all share a common alignment at these locations.

Big John Bay Cabin is the closest Forest Service cabin to this alternative. The proposed transmission line 

would follow existing FR 6314 past the trailhead to the Big John Bay Trail that provides access to this 

cabin, but would not be visible from the cabin itself. The cabin is often accessed by boat without using 

the trail, although those visitors may use the trail while staying at the cabin. The other five cabins 

identified in Table REC-8 range from 3.3 miles to 5.2 miles from the proposed transmission line 

alignment under this alternative. The transmission line is not expected to be visible from any of these 

locations (see the Scenery section).

Alternative 4 passes relatively close to four other recreation sites: the Frenchy Ridge, Twin Creek, and 

Warm Fish Lake shelters, and Seal Point Recreation Area (Figure REC-2). The proposed transmission 

line alignment is not expected to be visible from the three shelters. Alternative 4 shares the same 

proposed alignment as Alternatives 2 and 3 in the vicinity of Seal Point Recreation Area. The long-term 

presence of a transmission line along FR 6040—which provides access from Kake to the Seal Point 
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3-218 ▪ Chapter 3 – Recreation Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Recreation area—is not expected to affect the quality of the recreation experience at the Seal Point 

Recreation Area.

Cumulative Effects

In conjunction with other ongoing and reasonably foreseeable projects, Alternative 4 is not expected to 

contribute to long-term changes to overall patterns of recreation use in the project area. Existing 

opportunities would continue to be available for those seeking remote and primitive recreation 

experiences and those seeking access to fishing and hunting opportunities would continue to have those 

opportunities. Similarly, opportunities to use existing developed recreation sites would also continue to 

be available.

One possible exception is the Kake Access Project, which could involve development of a year-round 

road from Kake to Petersburg and potentially result in long-term changes to patterns of recreation use, as 

motorized access would be available to areas that are currently remote and difficult to access. FHWA and 

ADOT&PF are presently conducting a transportation planning study for the Kake Access Project, with a 

Draft EIS expected to be available in 2016. The KPI Project would not directly contribute to these longterm changes were they to occur. 

Short-term cumulative impacts could occur if one or more of the reasonably foreseeable projects were to 

coincide in time and space with the project. This could result in additional temporary disruptions to 

recreation use and could affect the quality of the recreation experience in localized areas. These types of 

impacts would be limited to the duration of construction and related activities in a particular location. It 

is, for example, possible that construction of parts of this alternative could coincide in time and space 

with the Tonka Timber Sale. 

Mitigation

The effects of the KPI Project on recreation would be limited through the site-specific application of 

Forest Plan standards and guidelines and project-specific mitigation measures (see Chapter 2).

.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – IRAs and Wilderness ▪ 3-219

Inventoried Roadless Areas and Wilderness

Introduction

This section provides an overview of the existing conditions related to IRAs and assesses the potential 

direct, indirect, and cumulative effects of the proposed project on these areas. IRAs are defined as 

undeveloped areas typically exceeding 5,000 acres that meet the minimum criteria for wilderness 

consideration under the Wilderness Act and were inventoried during the Forest Service’s RARE II 

process and during subsequent updates and forest planning analyses. The Tongass is currently using the 

IRA boundaries associated with the 2001 Roadless Rule (USDA Forest Service 2001c), which are 

identified in a set of maps, associated with the Forest Service Roadless Area Conservation, Final EIS, 

Volume 2, dated November 2000. These maps identify 9.3 million acres in IRAs on the Tongass and 

correspond closely with the 1996 roadless area inventory that was prepared for the 1997 Forest Plan 

Revision (USDA Forest Service 1997b). Including Wilderness, the Tongass National Forest is currently 

more than 90 percent roadless.

Part of the Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness is located in the analysis area; however, none 

of the action alternatives cross this Wilderness area.

Analysis Area

The analysis area used to assess direct, indirect, and cumulative effects in this section is the estimated 

disturbance footprint for the action alternatives. This area was selected as the analysis area because all 

project-related disturbances are expected to occur within this area. 

Methodology

This project-level analysis does not evaluate roadless areas for wilderness recommendation. It does, 

however, summarize the roadless characteristics associated with the IRAs in the analysis area. Detailed 

descriptions of the IRAs on the Tongass are included in Appendix C to the Tongass Land Management 

Plan Revision, Final Supplemental EIS (SEIS), Roadless Area Evaluation for Wilderness 

Recommendations (USDA Forest Service 2003). These characteristics are also discussed in more detail 

in the individual resource sections in this EIS. Table IRA-1 summarizes the roadless characteristics 

considered and the section in this chapter where potential effects are discussed.

Potential impacts to IRAs are primarily evaluated based on the projected level of disturbance that would 

occur within IRAs under the proposed action alternatives. Disturbance would occur as a result of 

structure installation, temporary shovel trails, temporary matting panels, temporary access spurs, 

helicopter pads, and right-of-way clearing. No new roads are proposed in IRAs under any of the 

alternatives. Temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs would be decommissioned following 

construction, and temporary matting panels would be removed.

The analysis focuses on potential impacts to the unique or outstanding biological, physical, or social 

values of the IRAs. Roadless characteristics (i.e., values or features that make the area meet the minimum 

criteria for wilderness consideration under the Wilderness Act) are described in the Roadless Area 

Conservation Final EIS (USDA Forest Service 2000, Vol. 1, pp. 3-3 to 3-7).
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3-220 ▪ Chapter 3 – IRAs and Wilderness Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Table IRA-1. Roadless Characteristics and Discussion Sections

2001 Roadless Rule Characteristics Chapter 3 Section

Biological Values

Diversity of plant and animal communities Wildlife and Subsistence Use, 

Botany, Aquatic Resources

Habitat for threatened, endangered, proposed, candidate, and sensitive 

species, and for those species dependent on large, undisturbed areas of 

land

Wildlife and Subsistence Use, 

Botany, Aquatic Resources

Physical Values

High quality or undisturbed soil, water, and air Soils and Geology, Aquatic 

Resources; Air Quality and Climate 

Change

Sources of public drinking water Aquatic Resources

Social Values

Primitive, Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized, and Semi-Primitive 

Motorized classes of dispersed recreation opportunities

Recreation

Reference landscapes Scenery

Natural appearing landscapes with high scenic quality Scenery

Traditional cultural properties and sacred sites Cultural Resources

Other locally identified unique characteristics Recreation; Cultural Resources

Source: USDA Forest Service 2000

Affected Environment

The proposed alternatives would cross four IRAs: 211 – North Kupreanof, 212 – Missionary, 213 – Five 

Mile, and 214 – South Kupreanof (Table IRA-2). These areas are shown in Figure 1-3 in Chapter 1 of 

this EIS. These IRAs range in size from 16,672 acres to 216,774 acres (Table IRA-2). The proposed 

transmission line originates on Mitkof Island, near Petersburg, with the majority of the proposed routes 

located on Kupreanof Island. Most of Kupreanof Island is within the Tongass National Forest and much 

of the land managed by the Forest Service is either designated Wilderness or within an IRA. It is not 

possible to build a transmission line between Petersburg and Kake that does not cross land that is either 

designated Wilderness or within an IRA (see Figure 1-3). 

Table IRA-2. Inventoried Roadless Areas Partially Located within the KPI Analysis Area

Roadless Area 

Number Roadless Area Name Total Acres

Alternatives that 

would cross this IRA

211 North Kupreanof 114,460 2 and 3

212 Missionary 16,672 2 and 3

213 Five Mile 18,643 2 and 3

214 South Kupreanof 216,774 4

The following subsections describe the four IRAs that would be crossed by one or more of the proposed 

alternatives. These descriptions draw upon the 2003 Final SEIS IRA characteristics that were 

incorporated by reference into the 2008 Forest Plan Final EIS (USDA Forest Service 2003, Volume III 

Appendix C). 

North Kupreanof IRA 

The North Kupreanof IRA (#211) is located at the north end of Kupreanof Island and lies along the southern 

shore of Frederick Sound. It is accessed primarily from saltwater by boat or floatplane, as well as from 

existing NFS roads in the southwest and east that extend into the roadless area. The closest anchorage is in 

Portage Bay, which provides access to the Portage road system. Forest Road 45601, which is part of the 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – IRAs and Wilderness ▪ 3-221

Kake road system is within the boundaries of this IRA. The NFS roads within the boundary of this IRA are 

ML 2 roads. FR 6030, the main ML 3 road heading east from Kake, is excluded from the IRA, which is 

located either side of this road corridor (Figure 1-3). Existing road systems in the analysis area are 

discussed in the Transportation section and shown on Figure TRAN-1. Alternatives 2 and 3 would cross 

approximately 11.4 miles of the North Kupreanof IRA, along the lower third of this IRA (Figure 1-3).

The 2003 Forest Plan SEIS discusses all the values used to rate the Wilderness potential of this IRA 

(USDA Forest Service 2003). This IRA appears unmodified from priority travel routes; however, recent 

timber harvest and road building along the eastern and southwestern boundaries of the IRA as well as in 

the interior (near FR 6030) may be seen from adjacent areas. There is a high opportunity for solitude and 

primitive recreational use in this IRA; however, floatplanes and powerboats may be seen or heard for 

brief periods. Current recreation use levels are low to moderate, and are concentrated mainly along 

saltwater (outside of the analysis area) and at specific locations adjacent to the major creeks and 

drainages. There are approximately 25.2 miles of existing road and 755.3 acres of past harvest within the 

North Kupreanof IRA. None of this past harvest occurred within the portion of the IRA that is located 

within the project’s analysis area. Under Alternatives 2 and 3, the proposed transmission line would 

follow 5 miles of existing roads within the IRA. 

Biological Values

The major streams in this IRA include Hamilton River, Big Creek, and Duncan Salt Chuck Creek. This 

area also contains the headwaters of Cathedral Falls Creek and Gunnuk Creek. The Hamilton River is a 

large stream and is known to produce very good runs of steelhead and coho salmon and has high value for 

sport fishing. Big Creek has an estimated annual escapement of 22,400 pink salmon. Duncan Salt Chuck 

Creek has high values for steelhead, coho salmon, and cutthroat trout, and ADF&G lists this stream as 

one of 19 “high value” watersheds in Southeast Alaska.

Sitka black-tailed deer and moose are present in this IRA; however, the majority of this IRA has low 

habitat qualities for deer and moose. Black bears are abundant and hunted in this area from the adjacent 

road system. There is a key wildlife and waterfowl migration route on the isthmus between Duncan Salt 

Chuck and Portage Bay that is partially located within this IRA. The saltwater to the north contains some 

of the highest population densities of humpback whales in Southeast Alaska.

The only federally listed threatened and endangered species likely to occur within or adjacent to this IRA 

are the humpback whale (endangered) and the Steller sea lion (threatened). These marine mammals are 

found in adjacent marine waters.

Physical Values

There is one small area of low vulnerability karst near Hamilton Creek, north of Towers Lake, and 117 

acres of karst resources have been mapped in this IRA (less than 1 percent of the total IRA area). The 

USGS has identified potential copper resources in the Duncan Salt Chuck area. Furthermore, valid 

mining claims exist west of Duncan Salt Chuck Creek. The area within and adjacent to the Cathedral 

Falls Creek corridor has also been identified as an area with potential for mineral extraction of 

sedimentary uranium by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. Parts of the Portage Mountain Loop Trail 

pass through this IRA (see Figure REC-2). No other developed recreation or other facilities exist to 

create a water demand within this IRA. The Gunnuck Creek area is allocated as a Municipal Watershed 

for the community of Kake, which is located west of North Kupreanof Roadless Area.
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3-222 ▪ Chapter 3 – IRAs and Wilderness Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Social Values

The area contains no Research Natural Areas, and has not been identified for any other scientific value; 

however, the karst formation in the IRA may be of scientific interest since karst formations are relatively 

rare on the islands of Southeast Alaska.

Parts of the Portage Mountain Loop Trail pass through this IRA (see Figure REC-2). This trail is 

unmaintained. No other developed recreation facilities are located within the area. The closest developed 

recreation facilities are two public recreation cabins located nearby on Portage Bay (Figure REC-2). 

Black bear and waterfowl hunting, camping, beach combing, and sport fishing, as well as subsistence 

activities occur in the areas adjacent to saltwater and along major creeks. Outfitters and guides use the 

area for remote setting tours, camping, sea kayaking, whale watching, and black bear hunting.

The area is mostly unmodified, displaying uniformly rolling lowlands, with the Bohemian Mountain 

Range rising to over 2,200 feet. The majority of this IRA (87 percent) is natural appearing.

The area lies within the traditional territory of the Kake Tlingit and is adjacent to the present community 

of Kake. No known significant cultural resources exist within this area; however, the lower reaches of 

Cathedral Falls Creek and Hamilton River are areas of traditional and current subsistence uses.

Missionary IRA

The Missionary IRA (#212) lies at the north end of the Lindenberg Peninsula on Kupreanof Island. 

Access to this IRA is primarily by floatplane or boat. The isolated Portage road system accesses three 

sides of this IRA from the east (Figure TRAN-1). This road system does not extend into the IRA or 

connect to any communities. There are no sites suitable for landing wheeled aircraft or floatplanes in the 

interior of this area; therefore, access into the interior of this IRA is limited to foot or helicopter. 

Alternatives 2 and 3 would cross approximately 0.3 mile of the Missionary IRA, along its outer edge 

(Figure 1-3).

The 2003 Forest Plan SEIS discusses all the values used to rate the Wilderness potential of this IRA 

(USDA Forest Service 2003). About one-third of the area appears unmodified, mainly the Missionary 

Range; however, the remainder of the IRA has been heavily influenced by adjacent management 

activities, mainly consisting of timber harvest activities and roads. There is a moderate opportunity for 

solitude and primitive recreation within this IRA; however, air and boat traffic and occasional vehicle 

traffic pass nearby this IRA, which may be heard and observed by people in this roadless area. There are 

no existing roads within this IRA. There are 341.6 acres of past harvest within the Missionary IRA; none 

of this past harvest occurred within the portion of the IRA that is located within the project’s analysis 

area.

Biological Values

The streams in this roadless area include the headwaters of Todahl Creek and Portage Creek, and parts of 

Twelvemile Creek. These streams support runs of steelhead and cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden char, and 

pink, chum, and coho salmon. Sitka black-tailed deer and moose are present in this IRA, however, the 

majority of this area has only moderate habitat qualities for deer. Mink, river otters, beaver, porcupine, 

marten, ermine are well distributed in this IRA, and some trapping occurs. 

The only federally listed threatened and endangered species likely to occur within or adjacent to this IRA 

are the humpback whale (endangered) and the Steller sea lion (threatened). These marine mammals are 

found in adjacent marine waters.
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – IRAs and Wilderness ▪ 3-223

Physical Values

There are no known karst or cave resources in this IRA; however, unique geologic features of the area 

include an unusual mineral outcrop located near the east side of the IRA. Although the area has low 

minerals potential, claims have been filed on locations within the area in the past; however, no 

development has occurred. No developed recreation or other facilities exist in the IRA to create a water 

demand. There are no existing or planned hydroelectric or domestic water projects in the area.

Social Values

There are no developed recreation opportunities in this area. The closest developed recreation facilities 

are two public recreation cabins located nearby on Portage Bay (Figure REC-2). Dispersed recreation

activities in this IRA include deer hunting when the season is open, and grayling fishing in the one lake 

where they are found. Commercial guides use the area for nature tours, freshwater fishing, and black bear 

hunting. 

The area is mostly unmodified; however, its overall integrity is not considered pristine. The irregular 

shape of the area, and the roads and timber harvest up the Todahl Creek and Portage Creek valleys, have 

negatively affected the area’s apparent naturalness. 

The area lies within the traditional territory of the Stikine Tlingit. No known cultural sites exist in the 

area, though cultural resources have been identified along the adjacent coast.

Five Mile IRA

The Five Mile IRA (#213) is located along the eastern shore of Kupreanof Island. The area is bordered to 

the southwest by the Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness (Figure 1-3). The Five Mile IRA 

is primarily accessed from saltwater. The isolated Portage road system provides access to the west and 

north portions of the IRA. This road system does not extend into the IRA or connect to any communities. 

There are no sites suitable for landing wheeled aircraft or floatplanes in the interior of this IRA; therefore, 

access to the interior is generally limited to foot or helicopter. The Petersburg Mountain Trail, which 

provides access into the southern part of this area, is readily accessible from the state dock in the city of 

Kupreanof. The Colp Lake Trail is also located within the IRA (Figure REC-2). Alternatives 2 and 3 

would cross approximately 10.7 miles of the Five Mile IRA, mainly along the shoreline of Frederick 

Sound (Figure 1-3).

The 2003 Forest Plan SEIS discusses all the values used to rate the Wilderness potential of this IRA 

(USDA Forest Service 2003). Most of the Five Mile IRA appears natural and unmodified, and much of 

the area is visible from major marine travel routes and provides a backdrop for the city of Petersburg; 

however, areas along the western and southeastern boundaries are affected by timber harvests and 

associated roads. Approximately 47 percent of the landscape of this IRA is considered distinctive from a 

scenery standpoint. The opportunity for solitude and primitive recreation within this IRA is considered 

high. This IRA lies within the traditional territory of the Stikine Tlingit, and there are known cultural 

resources in the area. There are no existing roads or past harvest units within the Five Mile IRA.

Biological Values

Five Mile Creek is the only ADF&G numbered stream in this IRA. This stream supports runs of 

steelhead and cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden char, and pink, chum, and coho salmon. Sitka black-tailed 

deer and moose are present in this IRA, and black bears are abundant. In addition, recent surveys have 

indicated that moose populations are increasing in this area. Mink, river otters, beaver, porcupine, 

marten, ermine, red squirrel, mice, shrews, and voles are also well distributed in this IRA. Numerous 

bald eagles are known to nest along the coastline of this IRA.
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3-224 ▪ Chapter 3 – IRAs and Wilderness Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

The only federally listed threatened and endangered species likely to occur within or adjacent to this IRA 

are the humpback whale (endangered) and the Steller sea lion (threatened). These marine mammals are 

found in adjacent marine waters.

Physical Values

There are no inventoried areas with potential mineral development potential in the area, and no karst, 

caves or other geologic features are located in this area. Two trails are located in the area. No other 

developed recreation or other facilities exist in this IRA to create a water demand. There are no existing 

or planned hydroelectric or domestic water projects in the area.

Social Values

No unique scientific or educational values have been identified in the area. The recreation potential for 

the Five Mile area is considered moderate to high. Residents of Petersburg and Kupreanof are the 

primary users of the trails within this IRA. The area has a rugged appearance and is visible from major 

marine travel routes along Frederick Sound. It also provides a backdrop for the city of Petersburg.

The IRA lies within the traditional territory of the Stikine Tlingit. Known cultural resources in the area 

include historic period cabins, fur farms, homesteads, culturally modified trees, prehistoric period fish 

traps, villages, and camps. Evidence of past use suggests the area was used more extensively both 

historically and prehistorically than current trends. The identified cultural resources are primarily located 

in beach fringe areas.

South Kupreanof IRA

The South Kupreanof IRA (#214) occupies most of the southern half of Kupreanof Island. The IRA is 

accessible primarily from saltwater (in upper Duncan Canal, Sumner Strait, or the southern end of Keku 

Strait) by boat or floatplane. Very few good anchorages are located along the southern shoreline (along 

Sumner Strait) and within Duncan Canal; however, several of the inland lakes are large enough to land 

small floatplanes. Access to the IRA is also provided by the Kake road system, which extends some 

distance into the area. There are no sites suitable for landing wheeled aircraft in the IRA. Alternative 4 

would cross approximately 14.8 miles of the South Kupreanof IRA (Figure 1-3).

The 2003 Forest Plan SEIS discusses all the values used to rate the Wilderness potential of this IRA 

(USDA Forest Service 2003). Most of the IRA is unmodified. The beach area (where logging has 

occurred in the past) and areas adjacent to recent road building and timber harvest appear modified. Tree 

growth in areas harvested in the 1960s and 1970s along the beach has mostly restored the natural 

appearance of these areas, although these harvest units are still noticeable. There is a high opportunity for 

solitude and primitive recreation in this IRA. Use of floatplanes and motorboats may disrupt visitors on 

the shore for brief periods, but a person camped or traveling inland is unlikely to encounter others. There 

are approximately 31.1 miles of existing road and 1,241.7 acres of past harvest within the South 

Kupreanof IRA. The proposed project would parallel 3 miles of existing roads within the IRA. About 

8.6 acres of past harvest are located within the portion of the IRA within the analysis area for the 

proposed project. 

Biological Values

Castle River supports coho salmon, steelhead, and cutthroat trout, and ADF&G lists Castle River as one 

of the top 19 “high quality watersheds” in Southeast Alaska. Irish, Keku, and Tunehean Creeks have high 

commercial value for coho salmon and sport value for steelhead. Zim Creek is considered to have very 

good coho salmon smolt capability. Kushneahin Creek has high sport fish value for sockeye and 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – IRAs and Wilderness ▪ 3-225

steelhead, and limited habitat for coho salmon. The IRA has populations of Sitka black-tailed deer, black 

bear, wolves, and other animals and birds common to Kupreanof Island.

The only federally listed threatened and endangered species likely to occur within or adjacent to this IRA 

are the humpback whale (endangered) and the Steller sea lion (threatened). These marine mammals are 

found in adjacent marine waters.

Physical Values

There is a small area of low vulnerability karst located north of Taylor Creek along the shore of Towers 

Arm, and 54 acres of karst resources have been mapped in this IRA (less than 1 percent of the total IRA 

area). Stone columns comprised of columnar basalt formed the “totems” at the head of Totem Bay. The 

U.S. Bureau of Land Management lists the Tunehean Creek area as having potential for mineral 

extraction for copper and molybdenum. The USGS also identified the potential for copper resources in 

the Duncan Salt Chuck area. Valid mining claims exist west of Duncan Salt Chuck Creek. The one 

public recreation cabin still in service on this IRA (Towers Arm Cabin) relies on the use of surface water 

for its water needs. There are no existing or planned hydroelectric or domestic water projects in the area.

Social Values

The area contains no Research Natural Areas, and has not been identified for any other scientific value; 

however, the karst formation in the IRA may be of scientific interest since karst formations are relatively 

rare on the islands of Southeast Alaska.

Although this IRA has a high opportunity for primitive recreation, this IRA receives low to moderate 

recreational use. Recreation use includes bear, deer, moose, and waterfowl hunting; coho salmon, pink 

salmon, steelhead, and trout fishing; beachcombing; sea kayaking; camping, recreation cabin use; and 

viewing from marine access. The Irish Lakes are accessed from FR 6314 for hunting and fishing. Black

bear hunting occurs all along the shoreline. The Towers Arm Cabin receives light use. Sea kayak 

paddling and camping occur along all of the shoreline. However, parts of the interior are not used for 

recreation or hunting as the only access to this area is by foot or helicopter, and other portions of the IRA 

are more desirable for these activities.

The majority of this IRA (89 percent) is natural appearing, with only ecological changes obvious to the 

viewer. Natural appearance dominates the landscape, except for the beach area along Keku and Sumner 

Straits which appears modified due to past beach logging. 

The area lies within the traditional territory of the Kake and Stikine Tlingit. Archaeological sites known 

to occur in this IRA include historic period cabins, fur farms, and a saltery. Culturally modified trees dot 

the shoreline and historic period mining has occurred in the area interior. Prehistoric period sites include 

fish traps, villages, and camps. 

Unroaded Areas

Unroaded areas are generally less than 5,000 acres in size and do not meet the minimum criteria for 

wilderness consideration under the Wilderness Act, but are of a size and configuration sufficient to 

protect the inherent characteristics associated with its roadless condition (USDA Forest Service 2008c).

5

 

The inventory for the 2003 Forest Plan Revision SEIS, which was subsequently updated for the 2008 

Forest Plan Amendment, identified two unroaded areas that meet this definition and are partially within 

the analysis area. One has a total area of 1,418 acres, 10 acres of which are located within the analysis 

 5 Note that the term “unroaded” is used elsewhere in this document to describe all areas without roads, including 

IRAs; areas that meet this definition of unroaded (i.e., are less than 5,000 acres, etc.); and other areas with no roads.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-226 ▪ Chapter 3 – IRAs and Wilderness Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

area common to all action alternatives. The other unroaded area has a total area of 4,467 acres, 16 acres 

of which are located within the analysis area for Alternative 4. The 2003 Forest Plan Revision SEIS 

analyzed these unroaded areas and found they did not have wilderness potential due to their size and/or 

configuration. 

No standards and guidelines to maintain the physical, biological and social characteristics of unroaded 

areas have been established in the Forest Plan or national direction. Therefore, changes to these areas, as 

a result of project development activities, are acceptable under the Forest Plan and effects are generally 

expected to be similar to those in nearby roaded areas. 

Wilderness

Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness

Part of the Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness is located in the VCUs crossed by the 

project; however, none of the proposed action alternatives cross this Wilderness area and it is not located 

within the analysis area for any of the action alternatives. Designated in 1980, the Petersburg CreekDuncan Salt Chuck Wilderness consists of 46,849 acres on northeastern Kupreanof Island. The 

Wilderness runs on either side of Petersburg Creek, but does not include the creek itself (see Figure 1-3). 

In this area, Petersburg Creek passes through a U-shaped valley with mountains on either side (with peaks 

reaching 3,577 feet at their highest point). The creek opens into Duncan Salt Chuck, a large, tidally

influenced salt marsh, with rocky rapids constricting its opening to the sea. A 14-inch-wide plank 

walkway covers part of the 6.5-mile-long trail that extends up Petersburg Creek to a Forest Service cabin 

on Petersburg Lake, which is also not part of the Wilderness. A more primitive trail – the Portage 

Mountain Loop Trail – extends across the Wilderness to a cabin on Duncan Salt Chuck (Figure REC-2).

Environmental Consequences

Effects Common to All Alternatives

Inventoried Roadless Areas

Due to the distribution of IRAs on Kupreanof Island, it is not possible to build a transmission line 

between Petersburg and Kake that does not cross land designated as an IRA (see Figure 1-3). As a result, 

the proposed action alternatives would all result in right-of-way clearing as well as the use of temporary 

shovel trails, temporary matting panels, and temporary access spurs within one or more IRAs. 

Furthermore, the proposed project would have a long-term impact to IRAs, due to the presence of the 

transmission line within these areas. However, no permanent or temporary roads would be constructed 

under any of the alternatives, and none of the alternatives would result in the addition of new roads in 

IRAs. Estimated disturbance by IRA, alternative, and disturbance type is presented in Table IRA-3.

Table IRA-3. Estimated Disturbance by IRA and Alternative (acres)

Impact Type

Alternatives 2 and 3 Alternative 4

North Kupreanof 

IRA (211)

Missionary 

IRA (212)

Five Mile IRA 

(213)

South Kupreanof 

IRA (214)

Total IRA Acres 114,460 16,672 18,643 216,774

Project-Related Disturbance1/

Structure Installation 28 0.9 29.1 38.3

Shovel Trails 6.5 0.4 14.8 6.0

Temporary Matting Panels 2.3 0.0 0.0 9.0

Temporary Access Spurs 2.3 0 0 0.7
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – IRAs and Wilderness ▪ 3-227

Table IRA-3. Estimated Disturbance by IRA and Alternative (acres) (continued)

Impact Type

Alternatives 2 and 3 Alternative 4

North Kupreanof 

IRA (211)

Missionary 

IRA (212)

Five Mile IRA 

(213)

South Kupreanof 

IRA (214)

Helicopter Pads 0.1 0 0.2 0.2

Right-of-Way Clearing 118.1 3.9 189.7 224.9

Total Project-Related 

Disturbance 157.3 5.2 233.8 279.1

As a Percent of Total IRA 

Acres 0.1 0.0 1.3 0.1

Note:

1/ Disturbance estimates have been adjusted to avoid counting disturbance to the same area twice.

Wilderness

None of the proposed alternatives would affect the Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness 

because no project-related activities are planned within the Wilderness area. Therefore, there would be 

no direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to the Petersburg Creek-Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness under 

any of the alternatives and the following alternative-specific discussions address IRAs only.

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 is the no action alternative and is analyzed to provide a baseline for evaluation of the 

impacts associated with the action alternatives. Under this alternative, the Forest Service would not 

provide authorization for the proposed project and there would be no direct or indirect effects on IRAs 

because there would be no transmission line construction or associated activities. 

Cumulative Effects

The no action alternative would not contribute to cumulative effects on IRAs because there would be no 

transmission line construction or associated activities under this alternative. IRAs would, however, 

continue to be affected by existing roads and past timber harvests as described above in the Affected 

Environment section. 

Alternatives 2 and 3

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternatives 2 and 3 would cross three IRAs: North Kupreanof, Missionary, and Five Mile (Figure 1-3). 

No new roads would be constructed within IRAs as part of these alternatives; however, right-of-way 

clearing, as well as construction of temporary shovel trails, use of temporary matting panels, and 

temporary access spurs, would occur within IRAs under both alternatives (Table IRA-3). The portions of 

Alternatives 2 and 3 that cross IRAs share a common alignment and design characteristics and are, 

therefore, discussed together in this section.

Alternatives 2 and 3 would both involve the construction of approximately 11.4 miles of new 

transmission line across the North Kupreanof IRA (Figure 1-3). Construction access would be via 

existing roads (5 miles) and temporary access spurs (1.7 miles), temporary shovel trail (4.5 miles), and 

temporary matting panels (1.8 miles). Temporary access spurs would provide access to structure 

locations more than 20 feet from an existing road. Project construction under Alternatives 2 and 3 would 

disturb an estimated 157.3 acres in this IRA, with the majority of this disturbance resulting from right-of-
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3-228 ▪ Chapter 3 – IRAs and Wilderness Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

way clearing (Table IRA-3). Total estimated disturbance would affect approximately 0.1 percent of the 

IRA, with much of this disturbance occurring along or in the vicinity of existing roads.

Alternatives 2 and 3 would cross approximately 0.3 mile of the Missionary IRA. Construction access 

would be via temporary shovel trail. Project construction under Alternatives 2 and 3 would disturb an 

estimated 5.2 acres in this IRA, less than 0.1 percent of the IRA (Table IRA-3).

Alternatives 2 and 3 would both involve the construction of approximately 10.7 miles of new 

transmission line in the Five Mile IRA. Construction access would be via temporary shovel trail. Project 

construction under Alternatives 2 and 3 would disturb an estimated 233.8 acres in this IRA, with the 

majority of this disturbance resulting from right-of-way clearing. Total estimated disturbance would 

affect approximately 1.3 percent of the IRA (Table IRA-3).

Adverse impacts to the biological, physical, and social values associated with the IRAs in the project area 

are expected to be minor under Alternatives 2 and 3, with the possible exception of impacts to the social 

values associated with the Five Mile IRA. The presence of a transmission line along the shoreline of 

Frederick Sound would affect visual resources in this area, which is visible from major marine travel 

routes along Frederick Sound and provides a backdrop for the city of Petersburg. Visual impacts are 

assessed in the Scenery section of this EIS.

Cumulative Effects

Past projects have impacted the IRAs crossed by the proposed alternatives. These past projects include 

approximately 1,097 acres of past timber harvests and 25 miles of existing roads within the three IRAs 

crossed by Alternatives 2 and 3. Reasonably foreseeable projects in the analysis area include future 

timber harvests. The Bocephus units include 297 acres in the North Kupreanof IRA and 62 acres in the 

Missionary IRA. These units are presently unavailable for harvest because they are located in IRAs and 

do not coincide spatially with the areas that would be affected by Alternatives 2 or 3. The proposed 

alternatives would incrementally add to the cumulative effects of these past and reasonably foreseeable 

projects.

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route 

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 4 would cross one IRA: the South Kupreanof IRA (Figure 1-3). No new roads would be 

constructed within this IRA as part of this alternative; however, right-of-way clearing, as well as 

construction of temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs, would occur within the South 

Kupreanof IRA under Alternative 4 (Table IRA-3). 

Alternative 4 would involve the construction of approximately 14.8 miles of new transmission line across 

the South Kupreanof IRA (Figure 1-3). Construction access would be via existing roads (3.3 miles) and 

temporary access spurs (0.5 mile), temporary shovel trail (4.3 miles), and temporary matting panels (7.3 

miles). Temporary access spurs would provide access to structure locations more than 20 feet from an 

existing road. Project construction under this alternative would disturb an estimated 279.1 acres in this 

IRA, with the majority of this disturbance resulting from right-of-way clearing (Table IRA-3). Total 

estimated disturbance would affect approximately 0.1 percent of the IRA. Adverse impacts to the 

biological, physical, and social values associated with this IRA are expected to be minor under this 

alternative, with the possible exception of impacts to the social values associated with recreation use in 

the vicinity of Duncan Canal. 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – IRAs and Wilderness ▪ 3-229

Cumulative Effects

Past projects have impacted the IRAs crossed by the proposed alternative. These past projects include 

approximately 1,242 acres of past timber harvests and 31 miles of existing roads within the IRA crossed 

by Alternative 4. Reasonably foreseeable projects in the analysis areas include future timber harvests. 

There are no proposed timber harvest units in South Kupreanof IRA at this time. The proposed action 

would incrementally add to the cumulative effects of these past and reasonably foreseeable projects.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-230 ▪ Chapter 3 – Cultural Resources Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Cultural Resources

Introduction

This section provides an overview of the archaeological investigation of the project area and assesses the 

potential effects of the proposed project on extant historical properties eligible for the National Register 

of Historic Places (NRHP), as required by the Act and its application guidance.

Analysis Area

The Area of Potential Effect (APE) is a phrase defined in implementing regulations of the NHPA. The 

regulations identify the APE as the geographic area within which the effects of an undertaking on federal 

land, in this case, construction of a transmission line and access roads, may cause changes in the character 

or use of historic properties, if such properties exist. The APE defined for the proposed project is a 300-

foot-wide corridor centered along the centerline of the proposed transmission line alternatives, with 

broader coverage at water crossings to allow for final siting.

Methodology

Cultural resources on the Tongass National Forest include a diverse array of historic properties that 

represent ancient and historic sites and artifacts. The NHPA sets forth Government policy and procedures 

regarding these historic properties, that is, districts, sites, buildings, structures and objects included in or 

eligible for the NRHP. Section 106 of the NHPA requires that federal agencies consider the effects of 

their actions on such properties, following regulations issued by the ACHP (36 CFR 800). The Section 

106 review process seeks to consider historic preservation concerns with the needs of federal actions. 

Review occurs through consultation with Alaska SHPO, the ACHP, Indian Tribes, and other parties with 

an interest in the effects of the undertaking on historic properties. 

One of the goals of consultation is to identify historic properties that may potentially be affected by the 

undertaking, assess potential effects and seek ways to avoid, minimize, or mitigate any adverse effects on 

historic properties. The Forest Service’s cultural resource consultants, Historical Research Associates, 

Inc. (HRA), met with Forest Service representatives as well as with members of the Petersburg Indian 

Association and the Organized Village of Kake; tribal groups that may be culturally affiliated with the 

project area. Prior to circulation of the Draft EIS, the Forest Service will also contact the Wrangell 

Cooperative Association, Sealaska Corporation, Sealaska Heritage, and Tlingit and Haida Central 

Council, additional tribal groups that may be culturally affiliated with the project area. Following Forest 

Service review of the final Cultural Resource Report for this project the Alaska SHPO and the tribal 

groups will be supplied with a copy for comment (Greiser and Carlson 2013). 

Project archaeologists conducted cultural resource investigations of major portions of the APE to ensure 

that the procedural requirements of 36 CFR 800 were met. In accordance with the Programmatic 

Agreement (2010) among the Forest Service Alaska Region, the ACHP, and the SHPO, the resource 

report will be submitted under standard procedures of Section 106 of the NHPA. Field methods were 

based on the cultural resource sensitivity model outlined in the Programmatic Agreement (2010). The 

model defines high and low archaeological site sensitivity zones; surveys were conducted in both of these 

zones. Survey areas included intensive survey of lands in high sensitivity areas such as areas below 100 

feet elevation and stream crossings and a sample of low sensitivity areas, mainly those above 100 feet 

elevation. 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Cultural Resources ▪ 3-231

Affected Environment

Reference Condition

According to oral tradition and various ethnographic accounts, the Tlingit are the dominant native group 

of Southeast Alaska. The portion of the KPI project area on Mitkof Island and the eastern half of 

Kupreanof Island lies within the traditional territory of the Stikine Tlingit, who occupied the mainland 

coast from Cape Fanshaw to the midpoint of Cleveland Peninsula, as well as the eastern portion of 

Kupreanof Island, the east coast of Prince of Wales Island from Red Bay to Thorne Bay, and all of 

Mitkof, Etolin, Wrangell, and Zarembo islands. The western half of Kupreanof Island lies within the 

Kake territory. Regionally, prehistoric site types include forts, stone and wood stake fish traps, 

pictographs and petroglyphs, seasonal camps, and villages. Historic period sites include cabins, culturally 

modified trees, mining claims, fur farms, gardens, canneries, salteries, and smoke houses.

Existing Condition

Kupreanof and Mitkof Island archaeological sites represent typical site types in central Southeast Alaska. 

These include both prehistoric and historic period sites, some of which may date to several thousand 

years. Forest Service and Alaska Heritage Resources Survey (AHRS) records show there are 3 sites in 

the KPI project area. These include an experimental fur farm, a reported historic burial, and a prehistoric 

fish trap. The sites in the project area are located either along the project area shoreline or within 1,000 

feet. The experimental fur farm was no longer used as a fur farm after 1972 and many of the buildings 

and features have been modified for use by state and federal agencies. The reported historic burial was 

presumably removed sometime prior to site recording in 1999. The prehistoric fish trap has been affected 

by natural causes such as erosion and natural decay of exposed wood.

Analysis and Field Survey Results

Prior to field investigation, various historical records and ethnographic accounts were examined to 

determine previous cultural use in the project area and its vicinity. Prior cultural resource surveys, Forest 

Service heritage program files, atlases and GIS archaeological site covers, the AHRS listings, and the 

Tongass Site database were also reviewed.

HRA personnel reviewed 24 cultural resource survey reports conducted on Kupreanof and Mitkof islands 

for projects conducted since 1982 in or near the KPI project area. These reports include surveys for 

proposed timber sales, fish pass projects, a Public Health Service project, a sewer project, trail and road 

projects, a Forest Service right-of-way abandonment project, a cemetery boundary survey, a recreational 

project, and site investigations. Following this background research, HRA archaeologists conducted an 

intensive pedestrian survey of about 830 acres of high and low sensitivity areas of various types of terrain 

in search of undiscovered sites and other cultural resources and also conducted reconnaissance survey 

(primarily windshield survey) of 1,370 acres of low sensitivity areas. Two new cultural resource sites 

were located and recorded.

The cultural resource survey resulted in the relocation of one previously recorded prehistoric site, one 

previously recorded historic site, and the identification of two new historic sites; a recorded possible 

grave (historic burial) was not relocated in the project area. One of the previously recorded sites is 

recommended eligible for the NRHP and one of the newly recorded sites is also recommended eligible.
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3-232 ▪ Chapter 3 – Cultural Resources Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Environmental Consequences

Direct and Indirect Effects

Effects Common to All Alternatives

The cultural resource survey resulted in the relocation of one previously recorded prehistoric site, one 

previously recorded historic site, and the identification of two new historic sites; a previously recorded 

possible grave (historic burial) was not relocated in the project area. One of the previously recorded sites 

is recommended eligible for the NRHP and one of the newly recorded sites is also recommended eligible. 

Most of the project area crossed by the various alternatives is on steep or elevated terrain and within 

cultural resource low sensitivity areas. All of the action alternatives propose transmission line 

construction and use of temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs. Implementation of the action 

alternatives in low sensitivity areas would have no effect on known cultural resources. 

Alternative 1

The No Action Alternative would have no direct or indirect effects on cultural resources because there 

would be no new transmission line built under this alternative and no associated structure installation, use 

of helicopters, temporary shovel trails, or temporary access spurs, or vegetation clearing activities.

Alternative 2 

Based on the cultural resource research and inventory, construction of the proposed transmission line and 

associated facilities under this alternative would have no effect on NRHP eligible cultural resource sites

provided construction related activities are located in low probability areas for cultural resources and 

known sites are avoided. Additional surveys would be required if construction were to occur in areas 

with more than a low probability that have not been previously surveyed. Potential impacts to previously 

unknown cultural properties during construction would be addressed through the project-specific 

mitigation measure C1 (see the Mitigation and Monitoring section, below). 

Alternative 3

Based on the cultural resource research and inventory, construction of the potential transmission line and 

associated facilities under this alternative would have no effect on NRHP eligible cultural resource sites

provided construction related activities are located in low probability areas for cultural resources and 

known sites are avoided. Sandy Beach is a known area of sensitive cultural resources and site avoidance 

is critical in this area. Additional surveys would be required if construction were to occur in areas with 

more than a low probability that have not been previously surveyed. Potential impacts to previously 

unknown cultural properties during construction would be addressed through the project-specific 

mitigation measure C1 (see the Mitigation and Monitoring section, below). 

Alternative 4

Based on the cultural resource research and inventory, construction of the transmission line and access 

roads for this alternative would have no effect on NRHP eligible cultural resource sites. Potential impacts 

to previously unknown cultural properties during construction would be addressed through the projectspecific mitigation measure C1 (see the Mitigation and Monitoring section, below). 

Cumulative Effects

The cumulative effects analysis area coincides with the project area boundary and the area of potential 

effect. Cumulative impacts to cultural resources on the Tongass may result from natural erosion, 

weathering, sedimentation and wind events, as well as from cultural processes, such as public use, 

commercial development, timber harvest, and road construction. Logging and road access for hunting, 

subsistence use, and recreation are the primary activities that have occurred and will continue to occur 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Cultural Resources ▪ 3-233

within the project area. Most of the recorded cultural sites are concentrated near the marine shore; 

increased visitation and expanded use of the beach and estuary fringe could have a cumulative effect on 

cultural resources in the form of vandalism, looting, or inadvertent damage, such as ground compaction 

from trampling and/or camping. Transmission line construction has the potential for cumulative effects to 

historic properties located in high sensitivity areas. The transmission line related activities that take place 

inland and on steep terrain will be in low site sensitivity areas and not likely to have any effect on cultural 

resources. 

Intensive cultural resource surveys and site monitoring have been implemented since the 1980s. The 

Petersburg Ranger District’s current archaeological research and survey designs are based on the results 

of this work as well as more modern methods and technology. These methods are designed to preserve 

and protect significant sites and provide information that will help guide future research and resource 

management. In addition, continued public education by the Forest Service to increase awareness 

concerning cultural resources and site stewardship assists the agency in effectively managing the region’s 

cultural sites.

Forest Plan Consistency

The proposed alternatives meet standards and guidelines regarding cultural resources. Obligations are 

met regarding Section 106 of the NHPA and its implementing regulations. The eligible sites or sites 

recommended as eligible that are located in the vicinity of Alternative 3 could potentially be avoided by 

rerouting the project or by placement of poles spaced to avoid directly impacting the sites. However, 

until precise locations of the various water crossings are identified, determinations of effect on cultural 

resources cannot be made. 

Mitigation and Monitoring

The Tongass Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service 2008a) addresses the desired future condition of cultural 

resources through a monitoring and evaluation plan. As specified in the Programmatic Agreement 

(2010), selected areas of direct impact during and/or after the actual ground disturbance are monitored. If 

inadvertent discoveries are made during project implementation, the Forest Service shall fulfill its 

consultation requirements in accordance with 36 CFR 800.13. Mitigation measures would be agreed 

upon and implemented before project activities may continue. The effects of the KPI Project on cultural 

resources would be limited through the site-specific application of Forest Plan standards and guidelines 

and project-specific mitigation measures (see Chapter 2).
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Socioeconomics

Introduction 

This section provides an overview of the current social and economic conditions in the project area and 

assesses the potential effects of implementing the proposed action and the alternatives, including the No

Action Alternative, on the social and economic environment. The analysis concentrates on the potential 

effects associated with construction and operation of the proposed transmission line, as well as the 

potential impacts of not proceeding with the proposed project (i.e., the no action alternative).

Analysis Area 

The primary social and economic area of influence, or analysis area, for socioeconomics includes the 

three communities located within the project area: Kake, Petersburg, and Kupreanof. Data are also 

presented for the Petersburg Census Area (CA) and the Southeast Alaska region. Community profiles are 

presented for the three communities in the project area at the beginning of this chapter. 

Petersburg Borough

In 2012, Southeast Alaska was divided into seven boroughs and three CAs. The seven boroughs 

correspond with the county governments found elsewhere in the United States, but unlike counties in 

other states, the boroughs in Alaska do not cover the entire state. The remaining unorganized areas are 

allocated to CAs, which are statistical units that are generally recognized as county equivalents from a 

data reporting standpoint. In 2012, the unorganized areas in Southeast Alaska were allocated to three 

CAs: Hoonah-Angoon, Petersburg, and Prince of Wales-Hyder. At that time, the entire KPI project area 

was located in the Petersburg CA, which included Mitkof, Kupreanof, and Kuiu Islands and the 

communities of Kake, Petersburg, and Kupreanof. 

This changed in January 2013 when the city of Petersburg’s voter-approved petition to incorporate as a 

borough was certified. The city of Petersburg was subsequently dissolved becoming part of the new 

home-rule Petersburg Borough. The new borough includes the former city and the rest of Mitkof Island, 

part of Kupreanof Island, and the mainland coastline north to Endicott Arm. The city of Kake is located 

on northwest Kupreanof Island, which is not part of the new borough, and although it is located within the 

boundary established for the new borough, the city of Kupreanof continues to exist as a separate 

municipality (Miller 2012).

The following section presents data for the Petersburg CA and Petersburg city because the most recent 

available data is compiled for these geographic areas.

Methodology 

Current social and economic conditions are characterized using existing data from the Alaska DOL, the 

U.S. Census Bureau, and others. Potential impacts to other natural resource-based industries (recreation 

and tourism and commercial fishing) are assessed qualitatively using existing data and other resourcespecific analyses developed for this Project, including the Recreation Resource Report and the Aquatics 

Resource Report. The following sections address demographic characteristics and trends, economic 

conditions, and non-market values. The discussion and analysis presented in these sections tiers to the 

detailed socioeconomic information and analysis presented in Chapter 3 of the 2008 Forest Plan EIS

(USDA Forest Service 2008c). 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Socioeconomics ▪ 3-235

Affected Environment

Demographic Trends and Overview

Southeast Alaska had an estimated population of 74,423 in 2013, with slightly more than two-thirds (67 

percent) of that total concentrated in three cities: Juneau, Ketchikan, and Sitka (Alaska DOL 2013b). The 

remaining population is distributed throughout the region in more than 30 small communities, most with 

populations of less than 1,000 residents. Petersburg and Wrangell are the closest of the larger population 

centers to the project area. 

The Petersburg CA encompasses approximately 5,684 square miles of land and water, including 3,282 

square miles of land, with an average population density of 1.2 persons per square mile (U.S. Census 

Bureau 2011b). The Petersburg CA includes the communities of Petersburg, Kake, and Kupreanof, as 

well as the small city of Port Alexander, which is located on the southeastern corner of Baranof Island. In 

2012, the Petersburg CA had a total population of 3,937, with three-quarters of this total, 2,972 people, 

residing in the city of Petersburg. Kake was the second largest community in the Petersburg CA, with a 

total estimated population of 598, 15 percent of the total. Kupreanof had a total estimated population of 

34; Port Alexander had an estimated population of 66; and 267 individuals lived elsewhere in the CA 

(Table SOC-1).

Table SOC-1. Population, 2000 and 2012

Geographic Area 2000 2012

2000 to 2012

Net Change

Percent 

Change

Average 

Annual Growth 

Rate (Percent)

Alaska 626,932 732,298 105,366 16.8 1.3

Southeast Alaska 73,082 74,423 1,341 1.8 0.2

Petersburg CA 4,260 3,937 -323 -7.6 -0.7

 Kake 710 598 -112 -15.8 -1.4

 Kupreanof 23 34 11 47.8 3.3

 Petersburg 3,224 2,972 -252 -7.8 -0.7

 Port Alexander 81 66 -15 -18.5 -1.7

 Balance 222 267 45 20.3 1.5

Notes:

CA –Census Area

1/ In addition to the communities of Kake, Kupreanof, and Petersburg, the Petersburg CA also includes the city of Port 

Alexander and individuals living elsewhere in the CA. People living outside the four communities (i.e., elsewhere in the CA) 

are referred to as “Balance” in this table.

Sources: Alaska DOL 2013a, 2013b, 2013c, 2013d

Total population increased by 16.8 percent in Alaska between 2000 and 2012, with much of this increase 

due to natural increase (more births than deaths in the existing population). The state also saw small 

gains in population through net in-migration (more people moving to the area than leaving). Population 

in Southeast Alaska experienced a much smaller increase over this period, increasing by just 1.8 percent. 

Population gains in Southeast Alaska were entirely due to natural increase, as the region experienced net 

out-migration between 2000 and 2012, with 4,654 more people leaving the region than moving to it. The 

Petersburg CA also experienced net out-migration over this period, with a net loss of 480 residents, 11 

percent of the population in 2000. The CA did gain some population through natural increase, but these 

gains were exceeded by the net out-migration, which resulted in a total net loss of 323 residents or 7.6 

percent of the 2000 population (Table SOC-1).
3 Environment and Effects 

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The population of Kake also decreased over this period, dropping from 710 residents in 2000 to an 

estimated 598 in 2012, a net decrease of 112 residents, 15.8 percent of the 2000 population (Table SOC1). A detailed summary of population trends in Kake is presented in Figure SOC-1. In a recent survey, 

community leaders indicated that the population of Kake fluctuates during the year, mostly driven by 

employment in the fishing sectors, with the population peaking during the summer months (June through 

August) when seasonal workers are present (AFSC 2013).

Figure SOC-1. Kake Population 1920 to 2012

Sources: Alaska DOL 2013a, 2013b; U.S. Census Bureau 1940, 1960, 1980, 1990

The population of Petersburg city also declined between 2000 and 2012, with a net loss of 252 residents, 

7.8 percent of the 2000 population (Table SOC-1). Population in Kupreanof remained relatively constant 

through 2011, with the total number of residents increasing from 23 to 27. Total estimated population for 

2012 increased to 34 residents, a net gain of 7 people, which is equivalent to 26 percent of the total 

community population in 2011.

Population Projections

Population projections developed by the State of Alaska anticipate continued population growth 

statewide, but expect population to decline in the boroughs and CAs of Southeast Alaska, including the 

Petersburg CA (Alaska DOL 2013e). Southeast Alaska is the only region in Alaska where population is 

expected to decline over the forecast period (2010 to 2035). The State anticipates that population will 

decline because low birth rates and the highest median age in the state mean that a sharp rise in net inmigration would be required for growth to occur in the future (Mercer 2010). Projections for the forecast 

period anticipate that the population of Alaska will increase by 28.2 percent between 2010 and 2035, 

while the populations of Southeast Alaska and the Petersburg CA are expected to decrease by 4.6 percent 

and 17.7 percent, respectively (Alaska DOL 2013e). Among the 10 boroughs and CAs that comprised 

Southeast Alaska in 2012, only the Hoonah-Angoon CA (-35.6 percent) and Prince of Wales-Outer 

Ketchikan CA (-20.5 percent) are projected to experience larger relative decreases in population than the 

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Kake 710 701 680 660 659 644 626 609 592 578 557 577 598

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

1920 Population: 387

1929 Population: 386

1939 Population: 419

1950 Population: 376

1960 Population: 455

1970 Population: 448

1980 Population: 555

1990 Population: 700
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Socioeconomics ▪ 3-237

Petersburg CA over the forecast period (Alaska DOL 2013e). Projected percent change in population is 

shown for Alaska, Southeast Alaska, and the Petersburg CA in 5-year increments in Figure SOC-2.

Figure SOC-2. Projected Percent Change in Population, 2010–2035

Source: Alaska DOL 2013e

Race and Ethnicity

The majority of the population in Alaska, almost two-thirds, identified as White in the 2010 Census. 

Alaska Natives were the largest minority group, accounting for 14 percent of the total population (Table 

SOC-2). The share of total population that identified as White in Southeast Alaska (65 percent) and the 

Petersburg CA (69 percent) was similar to the State overall (64 percent), with Alaska Natives accounting 

for a similar share of the total population (16 percent in Southeast Alaska and the Petersburg CA versus 

14 percent, statewide) (Table SOC-2).

More than two-thirds (68 percent) of the population in Kake identified as Alaska Native in the 2010 

Census, with just 17 percent identifying as White (Table SOC-2). The populations of the cities of 

Petersburg and Kupreanof were, in contrast, primarily White, accounting for 78 percent and 89 percent of 

their respective total populations. According to the 2010 Census, Alaska Natives accounted for just 7 

percent of the population in Petersburg city, compared to 16 percent for the Petersburg CA as a whole, 

and no Alaska Natives were identified in Kupreanof city (Table SOC-2).

-6%

-4%

-2%

0%

2%

4%

6%

8%

2010-2015 2015-2020 2020-2025 2025-2030 2030-2035

Alaska Southeast Alaska Petersburg CA
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Table SOC-2. Race and Ethnicity 2010

Geographic Area

Total 

Population

Percent of Total Population

White1/

American Indian 

and Alaska Native1/

Hispanic 

or Latino

Some Other 

Race1/2/

Two or More 

Races1/

Kake city 557 17 68 2 2 11

Kupreanof city 27 89 0 0 7 4

Petersburg city 2,948 78 7 4 4 7

Petersburg CA 3,815 69 16 3 3 8

Southeast Alaska 71,664 65 16 4 6 8

Alaska 710,231 64 14 6 10 6

Notes:

CA – Census Area

1/ Non-Hispanic only. The Federal Government considers race and Hispanic/Latino origin (ethnicity) to be two separate and 

distinct concepts. People identifying as Hispanic or Latino origin may be of any race. In this table people identifying as Hispanic 

or Latino are included in the Other Race category only.

2/ The “Other Race” category presented here includes census respondents identified as Black or African American, Asian, Native 

Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander, or Some Other Race. 

Source: U.S. Census Bureau 2011a

Economic Conditions

Employment

A total of 1,667 non-agricultural wage and salary (NAWS) jobs were identified in the Petersburg CA in 

2011, with a total combined payroll of $59.6 million (Table SOC-3). These data are compiled from 

unemployment insurance coverage data and do not include self-employed workers. The government 

sector accounted for 37 percent of total NAWS employment and 44 percent of total annual earnings 

(Table SOC-3). These totals include Federal, State, and local jobs, with most of this employment 

concentrated in the local government sector, which accounted for 28 percent of annual employment and 

27 percent of wages in 2011. These data indicate that compared to Southeast Alaska as a whole the 

Petersburg CA is relatively specialized in the manufacturing sector. The concentration of employment 

and wages in this sector—18 percent and 20 percent of the total, respectively—reflects the important role 

the commercial fishing sector plays in the local economy. 

As noted in the Kake community profile at the beginning of this chapter, the economy of Kake is 

dependent on logging, fishing, ecotourism, and sport hunting and fishing, and subsistence is an essential 

part of the local way of life. The city of Kake, the school district, and Kake Tribal Corporation are the 

largest employers in the community. Employment data for 2011 indicate that 92 people or 38 percent of 

total employment was in local government (Table SOC-4), compared to 28 percent in the Petersburg CA 

as a whole (Table SOC-3). Educational and health services accounted for 29 jobs, 12 percent of total 

employment compared to 4 percent in the Petersburg CA (Tables SOC-3 and SOC-4).

Table SOC-3. Annual Employment and Earnings in the Petersburg CA, 20111/

Economic Sector

Annual Average 

Employment Annual Earnings Average 

Monthly 

Earnings 

($)

Number of 

Jobs

Percent of 

Total

Millions of 

Dollars

Percent of 

Total

Natural Resources and Mining 76 5 4.3 7 4,704

--Forestry and Logging2/ 25 1 0.9 2 3,088

Construction 32 2 1.2 2 3,258

Manufacturing 303 18 12.0 20 3,306
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Table SOC-3. Annual Employment and Earnings in the Petersburg CA, 20111/ (continued)

Economic Sector

Annual Average 

Employment Annual Earnings Average 

Monthly 

Earnings 

($)

Number of

Jobs

Percent of 

Total

Millions of 

Dollars

Percent of 

Total

Services Providing 637 38 15.9 27 2,087

Trade/Transportation/Utilities 273 16 7.2 12 2,202

--Retail Trade3/ 216 13 4.7 8 1,821

Information 42 3 1.1 2 2,133

Financial Activities 39 2 1.4 2 2,905

Professional & Business Services 61 4 2.6 4 3,523

Educational & Health Services 67 4 1.7 3 2,073

Leisure & Hospitality 79 5 1.3 2 1,369

Other Services 77 5 0.8 1 849

Total Private Ownership 1,049 63 33.5 56 2,664

Federal Government 108 6 7.5 13 5,775

State Government 47 3 2.3 4 3,980

Local Government 465 28 16.4 27 2,935

Total Government 620 37 26.1 44 3,508

Overall Total 1,669 100 59.6 100 2,978

Notes:

1/ These data are compiled from unemployment insurance coverage data and exclude self-employed workers because 

they are not covered by unemployment insurance. Occupations with relatively high shares of self-employment include 

the fish harvesting, logging, and construction sectors.

2/ Forestry and logging is part of the Natural Resources and Mining sector.

3/ Retail Trade is part of the Trade/Transportation/Utilities sector.

Source: Alaska DOL 2012

Table SOC-4. Employment by Industry and Community, 2011

Industry1/

Kake Petersburg Kupreanof

Number 

Employed

Percent of 

Total

Number 

Employed

Percent of 

Total

Number 

Employed

Percent of 

Total

Natural Resources and Mining 19 8% 25 2% 0 0%

Construction 8 3% 68 6% 0 0%

Manufacturing 28 12% 149 13% 0 0%

Trade, Transportation and Utilities 34 14% 260 22% 2 22%

Information 0 0% 29 2% 0 0%

Financial Activities 8 3% 25 2% 0 0%

Professional and Business Services 13 5% 27 2% 0 0%

Educational and Health Services 29 12% 156 13% 3 33%

Leisure and Hospitality 2 1% 76 6% 0 0%

State Government 2 1% 73 6% 0 0%

Local Government 92 38% 282 24% 4 44%

Other 7 3% 22 2% 0 0%

Total 242 100% 1,192 100% 9 100%

Note:

1/These data are compiled from unemployment insurance coverage data and do not include self-employed workers. 

Source: Alaska DOL 2013g

Petersburg is primarily a fishing community that also attracts tourists (Cannon and Wilkinson 2010). 

Several fish processors operate cold storage, canneries, and custom packing services in Petersburg. 

Although not evident in Table SOC-4, seafood product preparation and packaging is an important source 
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of local employment in Petersburg, accounting for an estimated 22 percent of total employment in 2008 

(Cannon and Wilkinson 2010). Other important employers include the Petersburg School District, the 

City of Petersburg, Petersburg Medical Center, the State of Alaska, and Petersburg Indian Association 

(ASFC 2013). Local and state government accounted for about 31 percent of total employment in 2011 

(Table SOC-4).

The majority of Kupreanof’s working residents are self-employed although some commute by boat to 

jobs in Petersburg. This is reflected in the data presented in Table SOC-4, which identify nine jobs held 

by Kupreanof residents, four in local government, three in educational and health services, and two in 

trade, transportation, and utilities.

The annual, seasonally unadjusted, unemployment rate in Alaska was lower than the national average in 

2012, 7.0 percent versus 8.1 percent. The corresponding rate for Southeast Alaska was 6.8 percent, lower 

than the state and national averages. The unemployment rate in the Petersburg CA was, however, 10.5 

percent, higher than the regional, state, and national averages (Alaska DOL 2013h). 

Data compiled for 2010 as part of the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS) 

indicated that the unemployment rate in Kake in 2010 was more than three times the average for the 

Petersburg CA and four times the rate in Petersburg city, 19.6 percent versus 6.2 percent and 4.8 percent, 

respectively.6

 Although very high, this estimate for Kake was much lower than the rate reported by the 

Alaska DOL, which identified an unemployment rate of 54.7 percent in Kake in 2010, compared to 10.2 

percent in Petersburg city and 11.5 percent statewide (cited in AFSC 2013). 

In 2012, Alaska DOL identified 253 employed residents in Kake and 104 insurance claimants (Alaska 

DOL 2013i). As part of the same dataset, 1,146 employed residents and 223 insurance claimants were 

identified in Petersburg. Insurance claimants in Kake were equivalent to 41 percent of the employed 

residents. The corresponding ratio in Petersburg was 19 percent. These numbers are not unemployment 

rates, but provide some indication of the relative unemployment in the respective communities.

Commercial Fishing

The commercial fishing industry is a significant part of Alaska’s economy, and this is also the case for 

Southeast Alaska. Seafood processing employed 1,450 in Southeast Alaska in 2010, and an estimated 

9,182 were employed in fish harvesting (Alaska DOL 2013f; Warren and Kreiger 2011). This combined 

total (10,632 jobs) was equivalent to about 30 percent of total covered employment in Southeast Alaska in 

2010.7

 In 2010, 530 residents in the Petersburg CA held commercial fishing permits. The majority of 

these permits (468 permits, 88 percent) were held by Petersburg residents. A total of 45 permits were 

held by Kake residents. In addition, 455 residents in the Petersburg CA held crew member licenses in 

2010, including 408 residents in Petersburg and 36 residents in Kake. There were no commercial fishing 

permits or crew member licenses held by Kupreanof residents in 2010 (Alaska Commercial Fisheries 

Entry Commission 2011).

 6 These ACS data are 12-month estimates based on data compiled from 2006 to 2010. While the ACS can provide a 

good snapshot of larger populations, smaller populations can be misrepresented if demographic information is not 

collected from a representative sample of the population (AFSC 2013). The AFSC notes this is a problem for 

smaller Alaskan communities, which have a low probability of being adequately sampled. 

7 Total covered employment estimates prepared by the Alaska DOL do not include the majority of fish harvesting 

jobs because most of these jobs are exempt from state unemployment insurance laws.
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Recreation and Tourism

Recreation and tourism in Southeast Alaska and the Petersburg area is discussed above in the Recreation

section. As indicated in that section, an estimated 29,000 out-of-state residents visited Petersburg in 

summer 2006, and an estimated 13,000 visitors participated in nature-based tourism from Petersburg 

(McDowell Group 2007; Dugan et al. 2009). The nature-based tourism study estimated that these visitors 

brought in an estimated $2.7 million in gross revenues, with most of this revenue related to fishing lodges 

and charters (Dugan et al. 2009). Outfitter/guides reported a total of 1,407 service days at various 

locations in the KPI project area in 2013 (see the Recreation section).

Forest Products

The timber industry in Southeast Alaska employed an estimated total of 262 people in 2011, with 109 of 

these jobs supported by harvest on the Tongass (USDA Forest Service 2012f). An estimated total of 112 

MMBF of timber was harvested in Southeast Alaska in 2011, with harvest on the Tongass National Forest 

accounting for 29 percent (32.6 MMBF) of this total, and 56 percent (63.1 MMBF) of the total provided 

by Native Corporation lands (USDA Forest Service 2012f). 

The wood products industry in Southeast Alaska in its current form consists of individual- and familyowned sawmills and independent logging businesses. The Tongass Sawmill Capacity and Production 

Report for calendar year 2011 identified 10 active and 3 inactive sawmills in Southeast Alaska, with a 

total installed production capacity of 160.0 MMBF (Parrent 2012).8

 One of the active mills included in 

this survey is located in Petersburg. Falls Creek Forest Products (formerly Southeast Alaska Wood 

Products) was identified as active with a processing capacity of 3 MMBF and one employee. Review of 

the forestry-related businesses in the Alaska Department of Commerce’s business license database 

identified an additional six forestry-related businesses with mailing addresses in the analysis area 

communities, two in Kake and four in Petersburg (Alaska Department of Commerce, Community & 

Economic Development [ADCCED] 2012). 

A total of 25 jobs in the forestry and logging sector were identified in the Petersburg CA (Table SOC-3). 

This likely underestimates the number of forest products-related jobs in the area because it does not 

include sawmill- or log transportation-related employment and the NAWS dataset does not include selfemployed workers (see Table Soc-3, footnote 1).

Income and Poverty

Median household income in Alaska was $65,699 in 2011, 1.3 times the national median of $50,502. 

Median household incomes in Southeast Alaska boroughs/CAs ranged from 62 percent of the state 

median in the Hoonah-Angoon CA to 113 percent of the state median in Juneau. The Petersburg CA had 

a median household income of $54,434 in 2011, which was equivalent to 83 percent of the state median 

(U.S. Census Bureau 2012).

Per capita income estimates developed for the ACS for the affected communities in 2010 ranged from 

$22,657 in Kupreanof to $32,156 in Petersburg city, with per capita income estimated to be $24,413 in 

Kake (ADCCED 2013). Alternative estimates developed by the AFSC (2013), suggest these estimates 

might overstate per capita income in these communities. Using data compiled by the Alaska DOL, they 

 8 The mills included in the survey were those assessed in previous survey years. The original list of mills to be 

surveyed, initially identified in 2001, consisted of the 20 largest and/or most active sawmills at that time. Of these 

20 mills (increased to 22 in 2007), 10 were active in 2011, 3 were inactive, and the other 9 had been 

decommissioned or were no longer in production (Parrent 2012). 
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estimate that per capita incomes in Kake and Petersburg city in 2010 were $9,582 and $10,862, 

respectively (AFSC 2013). 

An estimated 10.8 percent of the population was below the poverty line in Alaska in 2011. In Southeast 

Alaska, the percent of the population in boroughs/CAs below the poverty line ranged from just 4.6 

percent in the Skagway Municipality to 18.5 percent in the Hoonah-Angoon CA. The poverty rate in the 

Petersburg CA was very similar to the state average, 10.6 percent versus 10.8 percent (U.S. Census 

Bureau 2012). An estimated 18.9 percent of the population in Kake was below the poverty level in 2010, 

more than twice the amounts estimated for Kupreanof, Petersburg city, and the Petersburg CA (ADCCED 

2013).

Electric Power

Regional Context

Southeast Alaska consists of a 500-mile-long stretch of mainland and densely forested coastal islands and 

peninsulas, approximately 120 miles across at its widest point. The region includes approximately 29,000 

square miles of land (16.1 percent of the total U.S. land area) and over 11,000 miles of coastline. Islands 

make up about 40 percent of the region’s total land area. The region is sparsely populated, with an 

approximate population density of 2 persons per square mile. As noted above, slightly more than twothirds of the population total (estimated to be 74,423 in 2012) is concentrated in just three cities: Juneau, 

Ketchikan, and Sitka, with the remaining population distributed throughout the region in more than 30 

small communities, most with fewer than 1,000 residents. Viewed from an electric generation and 

transmission perspective, the region consists of multiple, small load centers, separated from one another 

by mountainous terrain and marine waters. The 2012 Southeast Alaska Integrated Resource Plan 

describes the region’s electric transmission grid as limited in terms of the number of communities 

connected and notes that the grid is very different from the integrated, interconnected, and redundant 

grids that are in place throughout the lower 48 states (Black & Veatch 2012). 

Southeast Alaska has a wet, relatively temperate climate, and the combination of high precipitation rates 

and mountainous terrain provides considerable opportunity for hydroelectric generation. In 2011, 

hydroelectric power accounted for 96 percent of the region’s net power generation, with diesel supplying 

the other 4 percent. Statewide, hydropower accounted for just 20 percent of net generation, with natural 

gas accounting for more than half (59 percent) of net generation (Fay et al. 2013). 

Although it accounts for most of the region’s net power generation, hydroelectric power is not evenly 

distributed among the region’s communities. As communities moved toward electrification, hydropower 

projects were developed in locations near the region’s main load centers (i.e., the larger communities). 

Diesel generation was developed to supplement and backup hydroelectric generation, where it existed, 

and for communities that could not economically access hydroelectric power. Diesel generation is the 

main alternate source of energy because of the availability of diesel fuel, the ease of installing diesel 

generators in a wide range of capacities, and relatively low initial costs. Today, the power requirements 

of the region’s larger communities, including Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, Petersburg, Wrangell, Skagway, 

and Haines, as well as some smaller communities are met by relatively low cost hydroelectric generation. 

While considerable hydroelectric power is available in some locations, the lack of power transmission 

facilities prevents its distribution to the region as a whole (Black & Veatch 2012). 

Although relatively easy and inexpensive to install, high fuel costs and the operations and maintenance

expenses associated with diesel generators make them expensive to operate. As a result, in communities 

where hydroelectric power is not available (which includes 13 of the region’s 23 incorporated 

communities), the reliance upon diesel generation has contributed to very high electric rates. The 2012 

Southeast Alaska Integrated Resource Plan indicated that with “the increasing cost of fuels, the cost of 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Socioeconomics ▪ 3-243

diesel generation in Southeast Alaska is not conducive to economic development” (Black & Veatch 2012, 

p. 4-1). Alexander et al. (2010, p. 8), stated that “the high cost of energy in the communities that rely on 

diesel generation impedes economic development, as decisions to locate new commercial and industrial 

developments are influenced by the availability of reliable low-cost power.”

The existing transmission system in Southeast Alaska is limited, but the electric systems in a few 

communities are currently interconnected. These may be summarized by region, as follows:

• SEAPA Region—The existing SEAPA system connects Ketchikan, Petersburg, and Wrangell. 

• Juneau Area—The Alaska Electric Light & Power system connects Juneau, Douglas Island, Auke 

Bay, and Greens Creek. 

• Prince of Wales Island—The Alaska Power & Telephone (AP&T) system connects the 

communities of Coffman Cove, Craig, Hollis, Hydaburg, Kasaan, Klawock, and Thorne Bay. 

• Upper Lynn Canal Region—A separate AP&T system connects Haines and Skagway in the Upper 

Lynn Canal Region and is connected via an intertie to the existing IPEC system that serves 

Klukwan and Chilkat Valley.

Southeast Alaska Power Agency 

SEAPA began as the Four Dam Pool. The Four Dam Pool Project began in the early 1980s with the 

State’s construction and acquisition of four hydroelectric facilities: Terror Lake, Solomon Gulch, Swan 

Lake, and Tyee Lake. These facilities and related transmission lines were placed into service between 

1981 and 1985 and a long-term power sale agreement was signed in 1985 between the state of Alaska and 

the five member utilities receiving power from these state-owned hydro facilities. The member utilities 

were Kodiak Electric Association, Copper Valley Electric Association, and the cities of Ketchikan, 

Wrangell, and Petersburg.

In 2002, the five member utilities purchased the four hydroelectric facilities from the State and created the 

Four Dam Pool Power Agency. The State used the proceeds from the sale to establish the PCE

Endowment, which is used to partially offset the very high electricity rates in many of the smaller 

communities in the state. In 2009, the Four Dam Pool Power Agency restructured and sold or transferred 

the Terror Lake project to Kodiak Electric Association and the Solomon Gulch project to Copper Valley 

Electric Association. Following this restructuring, the Four Dam Pool Power Agency changed its name to 

SEAPA to better reflect the geographic location of the remaining projects (the Swan Lake and Tyee Lake

projects). The three remaining member utilities (the cities of Ketchikan, Wrangell, and Petersburg) 

provide electric utility services to their respective service areas utilizing power generated by SEAPA’s

facilities and purchased from SEAPA under a Power Sales Agreement that was executed in February 

2009 as part of the restructuring transaction. 

SEAPA’s principal facilities are the Tyee Lake and Swan Lake projects and approximately 175 miles of 

transmission lines spanning from Ketchikan to Petersburg. Located approximately 40 miles southeast of 

Wrangell, the Tyee Lake project was constructed in 1981 and provides power to Wrangell and Petersburg. 

Surplus power is transferred to Ketchikan via the recently completed Swan Lake-Lake Tyee Intertie, a 57-

mile-long, 138 kV transmission line (presently operated at 69 kV) that connects the Tyee-Wrangell 

transmission line to the Swan Lake project. As a result of the Swan Lake-Lake Tyee Intertie, the three

member utilities (Ketchikan, Wrangell, and Petersburg) are interconnected. This allows more efficient 

operation of the hydroelectric projects and surplus power from the Tyee Lake project can now be used to 

displace diesel generation in Ketchikan. The Swan Lake project is located on Revillagigedo Island about 

22 miles northeast of Ketchikan and provides power to Ketchikan and Saxman. Power and energy 

generated by SEAPA’s hydroelectric projects are dedicated to Ketchikan, Wrangell, and Petersburg

pursuant to conditions in the 2009 Power Sales Agreement.
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Inside Passage Electric Cooperative

IPEC is a non-profit, independent electric utility that is locally owned by the members it serves. IPEC 

was formed in 2004 when the Tlingit & Haida Regional Electric Authority was re-organized into an 

electric cooperative. IPEC provides electric service to the communities of Kake, Hoonah, Angoon, and 

Klukwan/Chilkat Valley. These four areas are not interconnected to one another. IPEC operates diesel 

generating units in all four areas and also purchases hydroelectric power in the Klukwan/Chilkat Valley 

area. 

IPEC owns and operates three diesel generators in Kake that supply the full power supply requirement of 

the community. Installed in 1984 (one unit) and 1993 (two units), the three generators have a total 

installed generation capacity of 2,585 kW. The primary operating cost for these generators is the cost of 

fuel, which represents well over half of the total power production costs in IPEC’s system (Hittle et al. 

2010).

Electric Rates

Residents in communities in Southeast Alaska that rely primarily on hydroelectric power to generate 

electricity have the lowest residential rates in the State, with rates as low as 10 cents/kWh in 2011. 

Residents of Anchorage and other places in Southcentral Alaska that rely mostly on natural gas for 

generation also have low rates, paying around 13 cents/kWh in 2011. Rates are much higher in smaller, 

more remote communities that rely on diesel, with rates ranging from about 50 cents to more than 

$1.50/kWh. The State helps to lower the price of electricity for residential customers and community 

facilities in most of these communities through the PCE program. However, residents in these 

communities still pay higher rates even after the receipt of PCE payments (Fay et al. 2013).

In Southeast Alaska in 2011, electric rates for residential customers ranged from 9 cents to 73 cents/kWh 

(Table SOC-5). The lowest rates were in Metlakatla and Sitka (9 cents/kWh), Petersburg and Ketchikan 

(10 cents/kWh), Wrangell (11 cents/kWh), and Juneau (12 cents/kWh). The rate in the communities

served by IPEC, including Kake, was 62 cents/kWh. The highest rates were in Pelican (69 cents/kWh), 

Tenakee Springs (69 cents/kWh), and Elfin Cove (73 cents/kWh). Rates for commercial and other users 

in each community are generally the same or very similar to residential rates (Table SOC-5). 

As noted above, the effective rate to residential customers in qualifying communities is lowered by the 

State of Alaska’s PCE program. In Southeast Alaska, PCE reimbursement rates in 2011 ranged from 7 

cents/kWh in Haines and Skagway to 40 cents/kWh in the communities served by IPEC, including Kake 

(Table SOC-5). Disbursements from the PCE program substantially reduced the cost of electricity for 

residential customers in participating communities, with rates in Southeast communities after the PCE 

program ranging from 15 cents to 36 cents/kWh. These rates were still higher than those in non-PCE 

communities, and more than twice as high in some communities, including Kake, which had a residential 

rate of 22 cents/kWh after receipt of the PCE payment (Table SOC-5).

PCE disbursements per customer are limited to a 500 kWh/month for residential customers and 70

kWh/month per resident for community facilities. This limitation coupled with comparatively high 

electricity rates even after the PCE program, resulted in average residential electricity consumption of 358 

kWh/month in Southeast Alaska PCE communities in 2010—less than half the non-PCE average 

consumption of 978 kWh/month (Fay et al. 2012a). 
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Socioeconomics ▪ 3-245

Table SOC-5. Electric Rates in Southeast Alaska Communities, 2011

Community Utility 

Residential Commercial Other1/

Customers 

(Number of 

Accounts)

Rates 

($/kWh)

PCE Rate 

($/kWh)2/

Residential 

Rate after 

PCE 

($/kWh)

Customers 

(Number of 

Accounts)

Rates 

($/kWh)

Customers 

(Number of 

Accounts)

Rates 

($/kWh)

Metlakatla Metlakatla Power & Light 641 0.09 0.00 0.09 210 0.12 67 0.18

Sitka Sitka, City & Borough of 3,682 0.09 0.00 0.09 1,603 0.09 16 0.09

Petersburg Petersburg, City of 1,367 0.10 0.00 0.10 713 0.12 37 0.11

Ketchikan Ketchikan Public Utilities 6,208 0.10 0.00 0.10 1,223 0.10 12 0.08

Wrangell Wrangell, City of 1,050 0.11 0.00 0.11 578 0.11 0 0.00

Juneau AEL&P 13,842 0.12 0.00 0.12 2,166 0.10 94 0.09

Haines3/ AP&T 1,054 0.22 0.07 0.15 329 0.22 49 0.22

Skagway3/ AP&T 579 0.22 0.07 0.15 435 0.22 88 0.22

Klawock AP&T 368 0.24 0.08 0.16 114 0.24 35 0.24

Hollis AP&T 114 0.24 0.08 0.16 14 0.24 8 0.24

Thorne Bay AP&T 285 0.24 0.08 0.16 104 0.24 54 0.24

Craig AP&T 655 0.24 0.08 0.16 293 0.24 73 0.24

Hydaburg AP&T 123 0.24 0.08 0.16 35 0.24 20 0.24

Gustavus Gustavus Electric Company 429 0.45 0.17 0.28 120 0.45 30 0.45

Coffman Cove AP&T 148 0.47 0.29 0.18 29 0.47 13 0.47

Yakutat Yakutat Power Inc. 275 0.50 0.33 0.17 85 0.50 60 0.50

Naukati Bay AP&T 60 0.55 0.37 0.18 7 0.55 1 0.55

Whale Pass AP&T 60 0.60 0.34 0.26 9 0.60 5 0.60

Chilkat Valley IPEC 201 0.62 0.40 0.22 29 0.62 9 0.62

Kake IPEC 224 0.62 0.40 0.22 49 0.62 21 0.62

Hoonah IPEC 358 0.62 0.40 0.22 57 0.62 43 0.62

Klukwan IPEC 47 0.62 0.40 0.22 7 0.62 8 0.62

Angoon IPEC 197 0.63 0.40 0.23 27 0.63 14 0.63

Pelican Pelican Utility 68 0.69 0.38 0.31 14 0.69 27 0.69

Tenakee Springs Tenakee Springs, City of 123 0.69 0.38 0.31 21 0.69 14 0.69

Elfin Cove Elfin Cove Utility Commission 41 0.75 0.37 0.36 31 0.75 7 0.73

AEL&P – Alaska Electric Light and Power Company; AP&T – Alaska Power and Telephone; IPEC – Inside Passage Electric Cooperative 

PCE rates were not provided for Pelican

1/ Other includes sales to community and governmental facilities and industrial customers.

2/ PCE Rate is the reimbursement amount paid by the state per kilowatt-hour.

3/ PCE Rates and Residential Rates after PCE data for Haines and Skagway are from Fay et al. (2012b). All other data are from Fay et al. (2013).

Source: Fay et al. 2012b, 2013
3 Environment and Effects 

3-246 ▪ Chapter 3 – Socioeconomics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Commercial and other customers, as defined in the footnotes to Table SOC-5, are not eligible to 

participate in the PCE program and there is no comparable program for these customers. These 

customers pay the full retail cost for power in communities like Kake where residential rates are lowered 

by the PCE program. As noted above and shown in Table SOC-5, the full retail cost of power in Kake in 

2011 was 62 cents/kWh, six times the rate in Petersburg and other larger communities in Southeast 

Alaska. As noted above with respect to the region as a whole, these high costs are not conducive to 

economic development and may in fact impede economic development in Kake as the availability of 

reliable low-cost power strongly influences decisions to locate new commercial and industrial 

developments in Southeast Alaska (Alexander et al. 2010; Hittle et al. 2010; Black & Veatch 2012).

Electric Customers 

Between 2000 and 2013, the number of electric customers in Kake dropped by approximately 16.7 

percent. Total annual energy sales have increased over the past few years mostly due to interruptible 

sales; however, energy sales to residential customers have remained relatively constant since 2008. In 

2004, the closure of Kake Seafoods, a seafood processing facility, contributed to an overall 32 percent 

drop in energy sales in that year. Kake Seafoods restarted operations briefly in 2006. Attempts to sell the 

plant to an outside company in recent years failed, but the plant reopened in 2011, with long-time owner, 

Kake Tribal Corporation, partnering with the Sealaska Corporation (Forgey 2011). The plant is not 

currently in operation (Hittle 2014). While in operation, Kake Seafoods purchased a significant amount 

of interruptible energy from IPEC.9

 Other interruptible sales have increased over time. Annual energy 

sales by customer class for the period 2000 through 2013 are shown in Figure SOC-3.

Figure SOC-3. Annual Energy Sales in Kake by Customer Class (kWh)

Source: Hittle 2014

 9 Interruptible or non-firm energy sales can be curtailed under certain circumstances and interruptible sales rates are 

typically less than the normal commercial energy rate (Hittle 2014).

 -

 500,000

 1,000,000

 1,500,000

 2,000,000

 2,500,000

 3,000,000

 3,500,000

 4,000,000

 4,500,000

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Annual Energy Sales (kWh)

Residential Commercial Public Facilities Interruptible
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Socioeconomics ▪ 3-247

In the past few years, the high price of fuel oil has encouraged residential, commercial and government 

facilities in Petersburg, Wrangell and Ketchikan to convert to electric space heating systems. This has 

resulted in higher electric loads in these communities, a trend that is expected to continue in the near 

future (Hittle 2014). 

Environmental Consequences 

Effects Common to All Alternatives 

Population

Construction of the proposed project is expected to extend for two or three construction seasons. A 

generalized schedule for a three-year project is presented in Chapter 2 in the Construction Schedule 

section. The major activities to be undertaken in the first year include surveying the centerline, right-ofway clearing and removal of danger trees, identification and preparation of laydown and staging areas, 

including helicopter pads, and construction of shovel trails and temporary access spurs. These activities 

are expected to employ approximately 25 workers, with the majority expected to be employed from 

within the local region.

The overhead portions of the transmission line would be constructed during the second year. Major 

activities to be undertaken in this year include laying temporary matting panels where needed, 

assembling, delivering, and installing poles, and constructing the transmission line. An estimated total of 

75 workers would be employed during this phase. The majority of these workers would be technical 

specialists who would likely come from outside the local region and possibly from outside of Southeast 

Alaska. Other workers, primarily those involved in transporting workers and equipment and supplies, 

would be more likely to be employed from within the local region.

Overhead transmission line construction would be completed during the third year. The proposed marine 

crossing or crossings (depending on the selected alternative) would be installed and substation and 

switchyard construction would also take place, as appropriate. Equipment and materials would be 

demobilized and disturbed areas would be restored. Specialist labor from outside the local area would be 

required to complete the overhead transmission line construction, install the marine crossing or crossings, 

and install the new substation and switchyard facilities. An estimated total of 50 workers would be 

employed in these activities. Workers employed in demobilization and site restoration would be more 

likely to be employed from within the local region, with an estimated 10 workers expected to be 

employed in these activities.

The number of workers temporarily relocating to the project area during construction is, therefore, 

expected to peak during the second year, with an estimated 60 non-local workers employed on the project. 

Very few, if any, of the non-local workers employed during the construction phase of the project would 

be expected to permanently relocate to the area. None of the workers temporarily relocating would be 

expected to be accompanied by their families. The total influx of workers during the second year of 

construction would be equivalent to less than 1 percent of the total population in the Petersburg CA in 

2012 (see Table SOC-1).

Existing SEAPA staff would be responsible for operation and maintenance of the new transmission line 

and associated facilities. Regular inspection and maintenance activities would be conducted on a similar 

schedule to those currently conducted on SEAPA’s existing transmission lines. No new staff would be 

employed and none of the existing workforce would be required to relocate to the local region.
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3-248 ▪ Chapter 3 – Socioeconomics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Economic Conditions

Employment and the Economy

The proposed project would have a positive impact on the regional economy during construction through 

the local procurement of materials and equipment and spending by construction workers. These direct 

expenditures generate economic activity in other parts of the economy through what is known as the 

multiplier effect, with direct spending generating indirect economic impacts. Indirect effects include jobs 

and income associated with industries that supply inputs to the construction process, as well as those 

supported by spending elsewhere in the local economy. Indirect effects are not estimated because while 

indirect employment coefficients can be estimated and are applicable at large scales, such as regional or 

statewide assessments, they are less useful at small local scales and can be misleading. 

The total construction cost is expected to range from $57 million (Alternative 4) to $65 million 

(Alternative 3), with a total estimated construction cost of $60 million for Alternative 2 (Hittle 2014). 

These total estimates include the costs of constructing the proposed transmission line, shovel trails, 

helicopter pads, and right-of-way clearing, marine crossings, tap/switchyard construction in Petersburg, 

and a new substation in Kake. The totals also include indirect costs (construction management and 

owner’s administration) and a 15 percent contingency. Local purchases under all of the action 

alternatives would likely include fuel for vehicles and equipment, some equipment rentals, and other 

incidental materials and supplies. Local purchases, employment of local residents, and the temporary 

relocation of construction workers to the project area would have small, but positive impacts on local 

businesses. 

Construction employment would peak at approximately 75 workers during the second year of 

construction, with approximately 15 workers expected to be hired from within the region. Although 

fewer total workers would be employed in Year 1, a larger share would be hired locally, with the majority 

of the estimated 25 workers expected to be hired from within the region. There were an estimated 1,667 

jobs in the Petersburg CA in 2011, including 32 construction jobs (Table SOC-3). Total employment also 

included 25 jobs in the forestry and logging sector (Table SOC-3). Total annual average employment in 

Southeast Alaska was 36,600 jobs in 2011, including 1,450 jobs in construction (Alaska DOL 2013f). 

Annual unemployment rates in the Petersburg CA and Southeast Alaska in 2012 were 10.5 percent and 

6.8 percent, respectively (Alaska DOL 2013h).

The total labor construction payroll, including per diem payments and other allowances, is expected to 

range from $12.7 million (Alternative 4) to $15.2 million (Alternatives 2 and 3) (Hittle 2014). Based on 

average earnings in 2011 in the construction and forestry and logging sectors in the Petersburg CA (Table 

SOC-3), total earnings by local workers would likely range from about $380,000 to $950,000, which is 

equivalent to 0.6 percent to 1.6 percent of total earnings in the Petersburg CA in 2011.

Operation of the project would have limited direct impacts in the local area under all of the action 

alternatives. Existing SEAPA staff would be responsible for operation and maintenance of the new 

facilities, with regular inspection and maintenance activities conducted on a similar schedule to those 

currently employed for SEAPA’s existing transmission lines. No new staff would be employed and local 

expenditures on project-related goods and services would be limited. 

Commercial Fishing

Potential impacts to fish are assessed in the Aquatic Resources section of this EIS. Implementation of the 

applicable Forest Plan standards and guidelines and best management practices would mitigate potential 

impacts to fisheries. As a result, none of the action alternatives are expected to have measurable effects 

on fish habitat and are, therefore, unlikely to affect the commercial fishing or fish processing sectors. 

Potential impacts to commercial fishing and fish processing from timber harvest at the forest planning 

level are discussed in the 2008 Forest Plan EIS (USDA Forest Service 2008c). 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Socioeconomics ▪ 3-249

Recreation and Tourism

A recent study estimated that nature-based tourism brought in an estimated $2.7 million in gross revenues 

to Petersburg in 2007, with most of this revenue related to fishing lodges and charters (Dugan et al. 2009). 

Other nature-based tourism activities identified in the study included whale watching in Frederick Sound, 

LeConte Glacier tours, and flightseeing and air services, including wilderness drop-offs. As noted with 

respect to commercial fishing, the Aquatic Resources analysis prepared for this project found that none of 

the alternatives are expected to have measurable effects on fish habitat and are, therefore, unlikely to 

affect businesses that focus on sport fishing.

Under Alternatives 2 and 3, the proposed transmission line would likely be visible as a linear break in the 

forest pattern when viewed from Frederick Sound, with individual structures partially visible from some 

locations. The transmission line could be visible from whale watching vessels depending on their 

movement in Frederick Sound, but would not be expected to affect the demand for whale watching 

activities. Alternatives 2 and 3 would cross Wrangell Narrows and Frederick Sound, respectively. 

Alternative 2 would cross the Wrangell Narrows via horizontal directional bore. Alternative 3 would 

cross Frederick Sound via a submarine cable crossing. Short-term disturbance associated with project 

construction in these and other locations would be visible to boats traveling the Wrangell Narrows and 

Frederick Sound, but would likely be limited in duration as the respective vessels pass these specific 

locations. 

None of the proposed alternatives cross designated wilderness and none are expected to affect wilderness 

experiences in the Petersburg Creek/Duncan Salt Chuck Wilderness. The proposed transmission line 

right-of-way would be visible from air services dropping clients at remote locations on Kupreanof Island, 

but would not be expected to affect the demand for these types of services.

Several commercial outfitters/guides are authorized to use the analysis area for a variety of uses, 

including fishing, sightseeing, and hunting. Outfitter/guides reported a total of 1,407 service days at 

various locations in the KPI project area in 2013 (see the Recreation section). Increased traffic and

temporary road closures could have an impact on the locations that outfitter/guides choose for access. 

These impacts would be localized and temporary. None of the proposed alternatives are expected to 

result in long-term impacts to the ability of outfitter/guides to use these areas. The distant sound of 

construction equipment may be occasionally apparent in some locations, but would not be expected to 

noticeably change the recreation experience in areas away from the road systems and the transmission 

line right-of-way.

Potential impacts to recreation and tourism from timber harvest at the forest planning level are discussed 

in the 2008 Forest Plan EIS (USDA Forest Service 2008c). 

Forest Products

Construction and operation of the proposed transmission line would disturb between 739 acres and 891 

acres, depending on the alternative. These totals include both NFS and non-NFS lands, with the majority 

of the affected NFS lands classified as forest land (see Table TBR-3 in the Timber section of this EIS). 

Total suitable acres that would be removed from the regional database range from 69 acres (Alternatives 2 

and 3) to 87 acres (Alternative 4) (Table TBR-5). These acres would be removed from the regional 

timber base for the life of the transmission line. These totals represent a very small share of the suitable 

land base identified in the 2008 Forest Plan, which includes a total of 773,000 acres of suitable lands. 

Under the Timber Sale Program Adaptive Management Strategy, operation of the timber sale program is 

implemented in three phases, with 537,000 suitable acres available in Phase 1 (USDA Forest Service 

2008c).

Estimates of the net sawlog volume that would be removed from the regional timber base for the duration 

of the project are presented by alternative in Table TBR-5. These general estimates are based on the 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-250 ▪ Chapter 3 – Socioeconomics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

suitable acres that would be removed and are mainly useful for comparison of alternatives. The estimated 

volumes that would be removed range from 1.5 MMBF (Alternatives 2 and 3) to 1.7 MMBF (Alternative 

4). These estimates potentially understate the amount of timber that could be available for processing 

from initial project clearing because they are based only on lands classified as suitable. Timber would be 

cleared along the entire right-of-way, not just in areas classified as suitable. Timber felled during rightof-way clearing would be cruised and valued and sold to the applicant. The applicant would be required 

to remove trees with commercial value as timber (i.e., merchantable timber) on lands that are either 0.75 

mile from saltwater or a road network that leads to a community or LTF would be removed, with the 

exception of timber located in stream buffers (see the Timber section, above). Timber removed and 

utilized would include young growth of commercial size, as appropriate. 

While there is some uncertainty regarding the amount of timber that would be available for processing or 

export, it is possible to provide some context. An estimated total of 112 MMBF of timber was harvested 

in Southeast Alaska in 2011, with harvest on the Tongass National Forest accounting for 29 percent (32.6 

MMBF) of this total, and 56 percent (63.1 MMBF) of the total provided by Native Corporation lands 

(USDA Forest Service 2012f). Context is also provided by the selected alternative for the Tonka Timber 

Sale, which authorized the harvest of approximately 38.5 MMBF of timber from a 2,085-acre project area

(USDA Forest Service 2012g).

The timber industry in Southeast Alaska employed an estimated total of 262 people in 2011, with 109 of 

these jobs supported by harvest on the Tongass (USDA Forest Service 2012f). Assuming projected 

harvest levels of 1.5 MMBF and 1.7 MMBF for the purposes of comparison, vegetation clearing 

associated with the proposed project would support between 8 and 9.5 annualized jobs in logging, 

sawmilling, and transportation. Annualized jobs are employment estimates adjusted to be based on a full 

year even though the employment may be seasonal. The resulting employment estimates would not all 

occur in one year and estimated jobs do not directly translate into numbers of affected workers. These 

estimates are approximate numbers based on average jobs per MMBF ratios that were estimated using 

harvest and employment data from 2007 to 2010 (Alexander 2012). 

Electric Power

The power supply evaluation and economic analysis prepared as part of KPI Project feasibility study 

(Hittle et al. 2010; subsequently updated in 2013) assessed whether the benefits that would be realized 

with the proposed transmission line in service would be greater than the costs of operating the proposed 

line and purchasing power from hydroelectric resources. Benefits would primarily be achieved through 

the offset of diesel generation costs at Kake. Costs that would be incurred by IPEC include the direct 

costs of operations and maintenance, certain incremental administrative and general costs, equipment 

renewals and replacements, and the costs of purchasing power from SEAPA. The results of this 

evaluation are summarized in Table SOC-6.

The evaluation presented in Table SOC-6 incorporates the following assumptions:

• The capital cost of building the proposed transmission line and associated facilities would be 

grant-funded and there would be no capital recovery component associated with the project.

• The cost of purchased power from SEAPA would include all transmission and delivery charges to 

the point of delivery.

• The existing diesel generators would be maintained for emergency backup in Kake and the 

resulting net operations and maintenance costs would be significantly lower than if the generating 

units were operated to supply full load.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Socioeconomics ▪ 3-251

• SEAPA would be responsible for operating and maintaining the proposed transmission line and 

the administrative costs associated with ownership and operation of the project would be minimal 

for IPEC.

Table SOC-6. Projected Production Cost Savings with KPI in Operation, 2016 to 2020

2016 2017 2018 2019 2020

Existing Condition

Total Production Cost ($000)1/ 1,394 1,469 1,543 1,957 2,084

Cost/kWh (cents/kWh) 35.5 36.5 37.5 38.5 40.2

With KPI

Total Production Cost ($000)2/ 535 546 558 630 642

Cost/kWh (cents/kWh) 13.6 13.6 13.6 12.4 12.4

Change from Existing Condition 

Total Production Cost ($000) 859 923 985 1,327 1,442

Cost/kWh (cents/kWh) 21.9 22.9 23.9 26.1 27.8

Notes:

1/ Total cost under the existing condition assumes that Kake’s power needs would continue to be met by the existing diesel 

generation. Total production costs are primarily fuel costs and variable operations and maintenance costs.

2/ Total cost assuming the proposed transmission line is in-service by 2016. Total production costs include the cost of the power 

purchased from SEAPA and KPI Project-related operations and maintenance, administrative and general, and equipment renewal 

and replacement costs.

Source: Hittle 2014, Tables 5-3 and 5-6.

The proposed transmission line is assumed for the purposes of analysis to be placed in service in 2016. 

Total production cost savings for 2016 are estimated to be $859,000, with the cost per kilowatt-hour 

expected to drop by 22 cents/kWh10, from 36 cents/kWh to 14 cents/kWh (Table SOC-6). This potential 

reduction in cost would not necessarily result in a reduction in the amount paid by residential customers 

because the rate charged to residential customers is subsidized through the PCE program. Rather, the 

amount of the PCE subsidy provided to IPEC would be reduced and commercial rates could be lowered. 

Further, IPEC presently charges the same rates for all of its service areas based on the combined costs of 

the entire system, which could also affect the extent of a potential reduction in rates for Kake residential 

customers (Hittle 2014).11 

Annual savings with the proposed transmission line in place are expected to increase each year primarily 

due to assumed increases in the cost of diesel fuel that would be offset by the proposed project, with 

savings per kilowatt-hour expected to be 28 cents/kWh by 2020 (Table SOC-6). The net present value 

savings to IPEC are estimated to be approximately $20.4 million over the first 20 years of operation, 

assuming a 4 percent discount rate (Hittle 2014).

If other utilities or power producers were to use the proposed transmission line, the cost to IPEC could be 

substantially reduced. If operating costs were allocated proportionate to the total kWh transmitted over 

the proposed transmission line, use of the line by other utilities or power producers would reduce the 

share paid by IPEC. In addition, costs to IPEC would be reduced if SEAPA were to bundle the operating 

costs of the proposed project into their overall operating costs. If all the costs of operating and 

maintaining the proposed intertie were paid by others, the estimated net present value savings to IPEC 

 10 A kWh is a unit of energy equivalent to 1 kilowatt (kW) expended for one hour of time. A heater or air 

conditioner rated at 1,000 watts (1 kilowatt) operated for 1 hour will, for example, consume 1 kWh. Similarly, a 100 

watt light bulb left on for 1 hour will consume 0.1 kWh. 

11 IPEC has, however, indicated that it may need to establish rates in each service area based on the cost of service in 

the respective areas, at the request of the Alaska Energy Authority (Hittle 2014).
3 Environment and Effects 

3-252 ▪ Chapter 3 – Socioeconomics Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

from the proposed project over its first 20 years of operation would be approximately $25.4 million, 

approximately 25 percent greater than under the base case ($25.4 million versus $20.4 million) (Hittle 

2014). 

If the KPI Project were to be built, IPEC would have the ability to establish economic incentive rates for 

new large commercial/industrial electric consumers. As long as regular retail energy sales remain 

relatively stable in Kake, the fixed costs of IPEC’s distribution system and the new transmission line 

would be recovered through normal rates. This would provide the opportunity for an economic incentive 

rate based on the incremental cost of purchased power plus a nominal margin. This would result in 

commercial energy rates substantially lower than they would otherwise be and could help attract new 

investment to the community. Further, if surplus hydroelectric generation capability is available, an 

interruptible energy sales rate could be offered to commercial customers to encourage greater electricity 

sales. 

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Under this alternative, the Forest Service would not provide authorization for the proposed project and a 

new electric transmission line would not be built. This alternative would not meet the Purpose and Need 

for the project, which is to connect Kake to SEAPA’s interconnected network and provide access to relatively 

low cost electricity. Kake would continue to be served by the existing, isolated electric system that depends 

upon high-cost diesel generation. In 2011, the full retail cost of power in Kake was 62 cents/kWh, more 

than five times the rate in the larger communities of Petersburg, Ketchikan, and Wrangell (Table SOC-5). 

This disparity would continue and could potentially increase if diesel costs continue to rise in the future 

(Hittle 2014).

If the State of Alaska’s PCE program continues to be funded, the cost of electricity would continue to be 

subsidized for residential customers and rates would still continue to be higher than those in the 

communities that are currently part of SEAPA’s interconnected network (Petersburg, Ketchikan, and 

Wrangell). The PCE program is currently funded on an annual basis by the State legislature. 

Commercial customers are not eligible to participate in the PCE program and there is no comparable 

program for commercial customers, who pay the full retail cost for power in Kake. Commercial rates 

would continue to be extremely high and likely discourage future investments in the community by 

commercial and industrial developments that are influenced by the availability of reliable, low cost 

energy.

Cumulative Effects

There would be no new transmission line under this alternative and the retail cost of electricity in Kake 

would continue to be substantially higher than it is in Petersburg, Ketchikan, and Wrangell, the 

communities that are currently part of SEAPA’s interconnected network. The relatively high cost of 

electricity would continue to combine with other constraints that presently limit investment and 

development in the community. 

Alternatives 2, 3, and 4

Direct and Indirect Effects

The proposed transmission and associated facilities would be built under Alternatives 2, 3, and 4. 

Construction of the proposed transmission line would have a positive impact on the regional economy 

during construction through the local procurement of materials and equipment and spending by 

construction workers. Project construction would provide employment for local workers. Local 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Socioeconomics ▪ 3-253

employment is expected to peak during the first year of construction for all of the alternatives, with the 

majority of the estimated 25 workers employed that year expected to be hired from within the region. 

Right-of-way and danger tree clearing would likely generate merchantable timber that would provide a 

modest contribution to the local timber supply.

Assuming that the capital cost of building the proposed project would be grant-funded and SEAPA would 

be responsible for operating and maintaining the proposed transmission line and associated facilities, total 

energy production cost savings in the first year of operation are estimated to be $1.16 million, with the 

cost per kilowatt-hour expected to drop by 28 cents/kWh, from 41 cents/kWh to 13 cents/kWh. These 

savings would occur under all three alternatives and would be expected to increase over time, with net 

present savings to IPEC estimated to be approximately $20.4 million over the first 20 years of operation 

(Hittle 2014). If the KPI Project were built under any of the alternatives, IPEC would have the potential 

ability to establish economic incentive rates for new large commercial/industrial electric consumers. 

These rates could be substantially lower than they would otherwise be and could help attract new 

investment to the community. Further, if surplus hydroelectric generation capability is available, an 

interruptible energy sales rate could be offered to commercial customers to encourage greater electricity 

sales (Hittle 2014).

Cumulative Effects

Local project-related expenditures, employment, and construction-related earnings would have a positive 

impact on the local economy for the duration of construction. Right-of-way and danger tree clearing 

would provide a modest contribution to the local timber supply, including jobs and income. These 

benefits would be increased if construction of the proposed project were to coincide in time with 

implementation of proposed timber sales in the analysis area. This would also be the case if the Kake 

Access Project resulted in a new, year round road between Kake and Petersburg. In addition, to benefits 

associated with construction employment and spending, development of a year-round road in conjunction 

with the proposed transmission line would improve Kake’s ability to compete with other communities 

and locations for commercial investment. For example, community leaders in Kake indicated in a recent 

survey by AFSC that current challenges for Kake’s fishing economy include high costs of electricity, fuel,

and labor, and shipping constraints for delivering fresh products to market (AFSC 2013). Development 

of a new transmission line and year-round road would likely help address concerns related to the high 

costs of electricity and transport to market. FHWA and ADOT&PF are presently conducting a 

transportation planning study for the Kake Access Project, with a Draft EIS expected to be available in 

2016. 
3 Environment and Effects

3-254 ▪ Chapter 3 – Environmental Justice Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Environmental Justice

Background and Affected Environment

Environmental justice refers to the fair treatment of people of all races, cultures, and incomes with respect 

to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. 

The CEQ’s (1997) Environmental Justice: Guidance under the National Environmental Policy Act

indicates that environmental justice concerns may arise from impacts on the natural or physical 

environment, such as human health or ecological impacts on minority and low-income populations, or 

from related social or economic impacts.

The following environmental justice assessment considers whether there is a disproportionately high and 

adverse effect from any of the alternatives on low-income and minority populations in communities near 

the project area, and tiers to the analyses presented in the Wildlife and Subsistence, Aquatics, and 

Cultural Resource Reports prepared for this project (Tetra Tech 2014f; Tetra Tech 2014b; Greiser and 

Carlson 2013).

The guidelines provided by the CEQ (1997) and similar direction provided by the EPA (1998) indicate 

that a minority community may be defined where either 1) the minority population comprises more than 

50 percent of the total population, or 2) the minority population of the affected area is meaningfully 

greater than the minority population in the general population of an appropriate benchmark region used 

for comparison. Minority communities may consist of a group of individuals living in geographic 

proximity to one another, or a geographically dispersed set of individuals who experience common 

conditions of environmental effect. 

With more than two-thirds (68 percent) of the population in Kake identified as Alaska Native in the 2010 

Census and just 17 percent identifying as White, Kake meets the CEQ definition of a minority community 

(Table SOC-2). The other communities in the KPI project area—Petersburg city and Kupreanof—and the 

Petersburg Census Area (CA), as a whole, are predominantly White, with the share of the population

identifying as White ranging from 69 percent for the Petersburg CA to 89 percent for the city of 

Kupreanof (Table SOC-2).12

The CEQ guidance clarified that such analyses should recognize the interrelationships between cultural, 

social, occupational, historical, and economic factors that may amplify the environmental impacts. For 

example, subsistence in Alaska Native communities is not only important economically, it is also 

important for reasons of tradition and culture; consequently, impacts on subsistence resource use also 

impact the social and cultural lives of residents. The CEQ guidance clarified that the identification of 

disproportionate effects does not preclude the agency from going forward with or approving the proposed 

action, but should heighten attention to project alternatives, mitigation and monitoring needs, and the 

preferences of the affected communities (CEQ 1997, p. 10).

 

12 As discussed in the Socioeconomics section, in January 2013, the city of Petersburg’s voter-approved petition to 

incorporate as a borough was certified. The city was subsequently dissolved becoming part of the new home-rule 

Petersburg Borough. Data are, however, presented for the Petersburg CA and Petersburg city because the most 

recent available data are compiled for these geographic areas.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Environmental Justice ▪ 3-255

Environmental Consequences

Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Effects

Construction of the proposed transmission line has the potential to affect subsistence use in the project 

area, which could disproportionately affect Alaska Native subsistence users. Potential impacts to 

subsistence resources are discussed in detail in the section of this document that evaluates wildlife and 

subsistence use. As discussed in that section, none of the alternatives are expected to affect subsistence 

use of fish and marine invertebrates, plants, or timber and firewood for personal use. 

Impacts to the wildlife component of subsistence food resources are addressed in terms of potential 

impacts to Sitka black-tailed deer, the largest component of wildlife subsistence resources in the project 

area. None of the action alternatives would result in increased competition for deer because the existing 

level of access to the analysis area would be maintained over the long term (no new roads are proposed 

under any of the alternatives) and deer population levels would not change (the minor reduction in habitat 

capability under all action alternatives would not be expected to reduce the number of deer available to 

hunters). This is discussed further in the Wildlife and Subsistence section of this EIS.
3 Environment and Effects 

3-256 ▪ Chapter 3 – Air Quality & Climate Change Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Air Quality and Climate Change

Introduction

This section addresses the potential effects of the proposed project on air quality and climate change. 

Affected Environment

Air Quality

The air quality of Southeast Alaska and the Tongass National Forest is generally good. The prevalent 

airflow from the Pacific Ocean, the relatively small amount of industrial development and lack of large 

population centers in the region, and the absence of slash burning following timber harvest, along with the 

implementation of environmental regulations all contribute to maintaining air quality. Current sources of 

air pollution in Southeast Alaska include stationary sources that require air quality control permits, such 

as diesel power plants, asphalt plants, incinerators, mining operations, and other facilities. Other sources 

of air pollution in Southeast Alaska include mobile sources, such as cars, trucks, boats, cruise ships, 

airplanes, and helicopters, and area sources, which include home furnaces, wood stoves, and open 

burning. Under certain weather conditions, wildfires in Canada can affect air quality and visibility (i.e., 

regional haze) in parts of Southeast Alaska (USDA Forest Service 2008c).

Climate Change

The EIS prepared for the 2008 Tongass Forest Plan Amendment discusses several issues related to 

climate change (USDA Forest Service 2008c). These include the considerable uncertainty concerning 

specific predictions of how the climate may change, and the uncertainty regarding the effects of climate 

change on the resources of the Tongass. To deal with this uncertainty, the Tongass National Forest will 

continue to monitor potential effects of climate change through the existing Forest Plan monitoring 

programs and other studies that are happening regionally and nationally. 

The 2008 Forest Plan EIS contains an extensive discussion of climate change related to management 

activities (see pages 3-11 to 3-20, 3-50 to 3-51, 3-77, 3-92 to 3-93, 3-116 to 3-117, 3-125 to 3-126, 3-203, 

3-250, 3-296, 3-340, 3-351, 3-401 of the 2008 Forest Plan EIS). Models available for estimating climate 

change are designed to predict changes on a regional scale and are not detailed enough to predict changes 

to the Tongass National Forest specifically. Furthermore, existing models do not entirely agree on how 

global warming will affect Southeast Alaska. The variation and possibilities are discussed extensively in 

the 2008 Forest Plan EIS. 

The 2008 ROD for the Tongass Plan Amendment concludes that because of the uncertainty related to the 

specific effects of climate change on the resources of the Tongass, the uncertainty about how activities on 

the Forest affect climate change, and the predicted small magnitude of these effects, the best course of 

action is continued management of the Tongass for resiliency in ecosystem functions. This will be 

accomplished primarily by management of the Tongass as a mostly intact ecosystem with a robust 

monitoring plan that will allow for adaptive management intervention if and when effects of climate 

change are more certain. Important components of the 2008 Tongass Forest Plan include: 

• A conservation strategy that includes an extensive reserve system in non-development land use 

designations and standards and guidelines where active management is minimized that protect 

over 90 percent of the existing productive old-growth habitat. 

• Standards and guidelines that include specific protection measures for soils on slopes that are 

greater than 67 percent and greater than 72 percent. These measures help retain carbon stored as 

organic material in soils where timber harvest and road building occur. 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Air Quality & Climate Change ▪ 3-257

In addition to the Forest Plan’s monitoring and evaluation provisions that address the effects of climate 

change, there are Regional forest health program monitoring changes related to insects, disease, 

pathogens, windthrow, and the long-term forest inventory system. If these efforts detect changes due to 

climate, they will be addressed through existing planning procedures to determine whether changes in 

management are warranted. 

Even at the Forest Plan level, differences between alternatives in terms of the effects of climate change on 

the Tongass—and in the effects of land management activities on climate change—are uncertain, 

unquantifiable, and likely to be small (especially when compared to other routine human activities). For 

these reasons, information on climate change was deemed not essential to a reasoned choice among the 

alternatives considered in the 2008 Forest Plan EIS (Kimbell 2009), and therefore for these same reasons, 

would not be essential to a reasoned choice among alternatives for the KPI Project. 

The Tongass National Forest is currently adjusting management in relation to climate change. Based on 

ongoing research and scientific recommendations (Hennon et al. 2012), and in response to the public’s 

concern about cedar decline, the regeneration of yellow-cedar is being more closely monitored and efforts 

made to influence species composition to include more Alaska yellow-cedar in regenerating stands. This 

will allow managers the ability to maintain or increase yellow-cedar on sites judged to be suitable for the 

species long-term survival (i.e., not prone to future yellow-cedar decline due to climate change) using 

future intermediate treatments such as pre-commercial thinning.

The Tongass National Forest held a workshop in the spring of 2012 with key stakeholders, relevant 

scientists and other agency personnel, business/community leaders, and internal personnel to identify key 

resources at risk and to set priorities for a climate vulnerability assessment. Information gathered through 

this workshop does not suggest that climate change is currently producing strong negative effects for most 

resources on the Tongass. Based on the current understanding of climate change in southeast Alaska and 

action alternatives associated with the KPI Project, specific adaptation actions are not necessary to meet 

Forest Plan objectives at this time. 

The Tongass National Forest has also collaborated with EcoAdapt to produce a concise assessment of 

climate vulnerability addressing topics related to management decisions faced by the Tongass. These 

assessments have address the topics of ice, snow, and fisheries. Additional topics will be addressed as 

collaborations are developed and topics become ripe for assessment.

Environmental Consequences

No Action Alternative

Under the no action alternative, the proposed project would not be approved or built. There would be no 

project-related activities contributing to air quality or climate change effects. Kake would continue to be 

served by the existing, isolated electric system that depends upon diesel generation. The existing impacts to 

air quality and climate change resulting from the use of the three existing diesel generators that serve the 

community (i.e., the burning of fossil fuels) would continue to occur. This would result in the continued 

release of air pollutants from these diesel generators, as well as the conversion of stored/sequestered 

carbon (in the form of diesel fuels) to atmospheric carbon. Atmospheric carbon, primarily in the form of 

carbon dioxide, is one of the major greenhouse gases being released into the atmosphere (McPherson and 

Simpson 1999). 

Action Alternatives

Air Quality

All of the action alternatives would have limited adverse short-term effects on ambient air quality. Such 

effects, in the form of vehicle emissions and dust, are likely to be indistinguishable from other local 
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sources of airborne particulates, including other motor vehicle emissions, dust from road construction and 

motor vehicle traffic, residential and commercial heating sources, marine traffic, and emissions from 

burning at sawmills. The action alternatives could result in supplies of raw wood products to local mills 

(as a result of timber clearing within the project’s right-of-way); however, it is the responsibility of the 

mill owner or sort-yard operator to ensure that mill emissions are within legal limits. 

The action alternatives would have a long-term beneficial effect to ambient air quality. As described in 

Chapter 1, Kake currently obtains its electricity from three diesel generators. The negative effects of 

diesel generation include air pollution issues inherent in the burning of diesel fuels. The proposed project 

would most likely replace this diesel-generated power sources with power derived from hydroelectric 

sources, which has a much lower impact on air quality. Once the proposed project is operational, the 

three existing diesel generators located near the Kake substation would serve as a backup to the power 

provided via the proposed transmission line. The existing generators would be used much less frequently 

under this scenario, thereby reducing the impacts of these diesel generators on the local air quality. 

Climate Change

For the KPI Project, it seems reasonable to assume that the amount of vegetation cleared or timber 

harvested is the best indicator of the likely contribution of the action alternatives to climate change. 

Carbon sequestration, the flow of carbon into aquatic or terrestrial systems from the atmosphere, is 

difficult to evaluate. Mature forests in Alaska are considered to be carbon “sinks,” meaning that these 

forest stands accumulate more carbon than they release (USDA Forest Service 2008c, p. 3-17). Where 

allowed, the regeneration of trees that follows vegetation clearing or timber harvest has rapid growth 

relative to old growth and also accumulates carbon into the system. 

When considering the varying degrees of forest site conditions, the lifecycle of wood products, and the 

substitution effect of using wood products over other materials, the point of equilibrium in the loss or gain 

of carbon following old-growth harvest is subject to much uncertainty. The regeneration of new trees in 

the areas that have been harvested or cleared contributes carbon and factors into the debate surrounding 

the balance. The action alternatives would all involve the long-term maintenance of a cleared right-ofway where new trees would not be able to grow. Therefore, the following analysis assumes that 

harvesting forest with high biomass reduces overall carbon stocks more in the near term than if the forest 

were retained, even counting the carbon storage in harvested wood products, snags, and logs.

The action alternatives propose varying levels of vegetation clearing, and would result in an initial net 

release of CO2 into the atmosphere above that of No Action. Alternatives 2 and 3 would involve slightly 

more clearing of forested vegetation than Alternative 4, an estimated 677 acres under Alternatives 2 and 3 

compared to 630 acres under Alternative 4, and would, therefore, be expected to have very slightly larger 

effects on carbon sequestration. 

Using USDA Forest Service Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) data, Barrett (2014) estimated that 

aboveground average carbon density on the Tongass was 72 tons per acre for unmanaged forests and 45 

tons per acre for managed forest, with varying shares divided between live tress, logs, and snags. Using 

per-acre values by forest type from the same data set and extrapolating to include wilderness areas (which 

are not represented in the FIA data set), Barrett (2014) developed a rough total estimate of about 650 

million tons in aboveground tree carbon stored on the Tongass, the equivalent of about 2.4 billion tons of 

CO2. 

It is estimated that the forests of the Tongass represent approximately one quarter of 1 percent of the 

stored carbon in forests worldwide (USDA Forest Service 2008c, p. 3-19). Carbon stored in forests, 

including forest soils, represent a small portion of total global carbon storage (terrestrial, ocean, 

atmospheric, and fossil carbon pools); for example, the oceans store approximately 20 times as much 

carbon as all terrestrial systems (Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission 2007). Therefore, it is 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Air Quality & Climate Change ▪ 3-259

reasonable to conclude that small, if even measurable, changes in carbon sequestration under any of the 

action alternatives, whether positive or negative, would not be a relevant factor for choosing among 

alternatives. Additionally, as described above and in the Forest Plan, the task of understanding all the 

factors that influence climate change and how carbon is sequestered contains substantial uncertainty and 

for these reasons is not essential to a reasoned choice among alternatives. 

None of the action alternatives are predicted to measurably contribute to cumulative effects on climate 

change. 
3 Environment and Effects

3-260 ▪ Chapter 3 – Health and Safety, including Noise Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Health and Safety, including Noise 

Introduction 

Reliable power sources can contribute to the health and safety of communities in a variety of ways, such as 

providing dependable heating sources for homes and businesses, or maintaining vital public services (such as 

providing electricity to hospitals). However, the construction and operation of the electric transmission lines 

necessary to provide this reliable power can also have some potentially adverse impacts to the public’s health and 

safety. The following sections address noise, electric and magnetic fields, and aircraft safety.

Analysis Area 

The analysis area for the noise and electric and magnetic fields portion of the health and safety 

assessment includes the proposed right-of-way, assumed to be 300-feet-wide in all locations for the 

purposes of this analysis, and a 1,000-foot buffer from either side the outer edge of this right-of-way. 

The analysis area used for the aircraft safety assessment includes airports located within 5 miles of the 

proposed project, as well as waterways used by floatplanes where the flight path of a floatplane could 

potentially bring the craft into contact with the project during take-offs or landings.

Methodology 

The information sources used for this analysis include aerial photography, estimated noise levels 

associated with construction activities (Thalheimer 1996; BPA 2003), publicly available flight data (FAA

2013), and current research regarding electric and magnetic fields and public health (NIEHS 1999; NAS 

1999; HCN 2001, 2004; NRPB 2001, 2004; IARC 2002).

Affected Environment 

Noise 

Sound can be described as a rapid fluctuation of air pressure that occurs above or below the existing atmospheric 

pressure, which subsequently creates a sound wave. The term “noise” is highly subjective and is dependent on 

the detector’s state and point-of-view; however, noise can be generally defined as any unwanted sound. 

The intensity of noise is typically described using the decibel (dB) scale, which is a logarithmic rating system that 

accounts for the large differences in audible intensities. Using this scale, an increase of 10 A-weighted decibels 

(dBA) corresponds to the perception that the loudness of a noise has doubled. For example, a 70-dBA sound 

level would be perceived by the average human as being twice as loud as a 60-dBA sound level. Table NPHS-1 

identifies typical noise levels associated with common sound sources; Table NPHS-2 identifies typical noise 

levels associated with construction equipment.

Table NPHS-1. Common Noise Sources and Sound Levels

Noise Source or Effect Sound Level, dBA

Threshold of pain 128

Rock-and-roll band 108

Truck at 50 feet 80

Gas lawnmower at 100 feet 70

Normal conversation indoors 60

Moderate rainfall on foliage 50

Refrigerator 40

Bedroom at night 25

Hearing threshold 0

Source: BPA 2003
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Table NPHS-2. Noise Levels Produced by Typical Construction Equipment

Type of Equipment

Maximum Level (dBA) at 50 

Feet

Road Grader 85

Bulldozers 85

Heavy Trucks 88

Backhoe 80

Pneumatic Tools 85

Crane 85

Combined Equipment 89

Source: Thalheimer 1996

The majority of the proposed project crosses through a relatively undeveloped area, with few sensitive 

noise receptors, such as homes or businesses, located within the analysis areas for the proposed 

alternatives. Sensitive noise receptors in the analysis areas for Alternatives 2 and 3, include Sandy Beach 

Park (both alternatives), private residences and a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints along Sandy 

Beach Road (Alternative 2), and Outlook Park (Alternative 2). Alternatives 2 and 3 would also cross four 

recreation trails on NFS lands: the Colp Lake, Goose Lake, Portage Mountain Loop, and Raven trails (see 

the Recreation section of this EIS). 

Sensitive noise receptors in the analysis area for Alternative 4 include private residences located between 

the point where the alternative connects to the Tyee-Wrangell-Petersburg transmission line and the 

proposed Wrangell Narrows crossing location. Alternative 4 would cross one recreation trail on NFS 

lands: the Hamilton Creek Trail (see the Recreation section).

All three alternatives would follow Keku Road to the existing substation in Kake and pass sensitive noise 

receptors located along this road.

Electric and Magnetic Fields 

Electric and magnetic fields are produced by both natural as well as anthropogenic processes. The earth’s 

natural magnetic field is thought to result from the rotation of the earth’s molten iron core; while the 

earth’s natural electrical field is primarily caused by the charge separation that occurs between the earth 

and the ionosphere (König et al. 1981). Anthropogenic induced fields are produced through the use of 

any electrical devices. Electric and magnetic fields are found around any electrical wiring, including 

household wiring, electrical appliances and equipment, and electric transmission lines. 

The strength of the electric field around a transmission line depends primarily on the line’s voltage, with 

higher electric fields correlated to higher voltages; however, little variation is expected with a 

transmission line’s electric field as the line’s voltage does not vary significantly. Furthermore, any object 

that can conduct electricity (e.g., trees, buildings, metal objects) will block this electric field. The 

strength of the magnetic field, however, depends primarily on the current flowing through the line; 

therefore, as electricity demand increases and the current on the line increases, the magnetic field levels 

associated with the line generally increases. The strength of these fields is reduced substantially as the 

distance from the power source increases.

The standard unit for measuring the strength of an electric field is volts per meter. Magnetic field levels 

are typically measured is milligauss (mG). A typical home has a background magnetic field (in areas 

away from electrical appliances) that ranges from 0.5 mG to 4 mG (with an average of 0.9 mG); however, 

fields around electric home appliances can be 100s of mGs (USDA Forest Service 1997a). 

There has been public concern regarding the effects of electric and magnetic fields on the health and 

safety of the public. The assessments by International Agency for Research on Cancer, the National 
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3-262 ▪ Chapter 3 – Health and Safety, including Noise Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, the National Academy of Science, the National Radiological 

Protection Board of Great Britain, and the Health Council of the Netherlands agree that there is little 

evidence to suggest low levels of electric and magnetic fields are directly associated with adverse health 

effects, including most forms of adult and childhood cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, 

depression, and reproductive effects. However, all of the assessments concluded that epidemiology 

studies in total suggest that there is at least some association between magnetic fields at higher timeweighted average exposure levels (greater than 4 mG) and childhood leukemia (NIEHS 1999; NAS 1999; 

HCN 2001, 2004; NRPB 2001, 2004; IARC 2002). For example, the National Radiological Protection 

Board of Great Britain (NRPB 2004) found that: “Laboratory experiments have provided no good 

evidence that extremely low frequency [ELF] electromagnetic fields are capable of producing cancer, nor 

do human epidemiological studies suggests that they cause cancer in general. There is, however, some 

epidemiological evidence that prolonged exposure to higher levels of power frequency magnetic fields is 

associated with a small risk of leukemia in children.”

The federal government performed an extensive review of electric and magnetic field related issues in the 

1990s, which resulted in the decision that federal regulatory actions were not warranted (NIEHS 1999). 

As a result, there are no federal regulations or guidelines that directly apply to electric and magnetic 

fields. The State of Alaska has also not established electric or magnetic field standards.

Aircraft Safety 

As road densities are typically low in Southeast Alaska, the region depends heavily on aircraft for local 

transportation. This is especially true along the islands found in the Tongass, which rely heavily on 

floatplanes that can take-off and land along the many waterways. As a result, overhead transmission lines 

can pose a threat to the safety of these aircraft. The magnitude of the threat depends on multiple factors, 

including the type of aircraft utilizing the area, where the aircraft take-off and land, aircraft flight paths, 

local weather conditions, and the height and location of the overhead transmission line. 

Helicopters, floatplanes, and commercial aircraft all fly in and around Mitkof and Kupreanof Islands. 

Helicopters are used to transport goods and people, and support commercial activities such as timber 

harvesting and construction. Floatplanes are used by both private pilots for individual transportation, as 

well as by commercial companies that run transportation, recreation, and sightseeing businesses. Alaska 

Airlines is the primary large-scale commercial airline serving the area, which providing flights in and out 

of the Petersburg Airport.

Areas used by aircraft in and around the project area include: 

• The Petersburg Airport is located on Mitkof Island, just south of Petersburg (at 1504 Haugen 

Drive, Petersburg, AK 99833). There are 15 planes (all single engine) based at this airport. A 

total of 13,492 aircraft operations occurred at this airport during 2011, with an average of 37 

planes either taking-off or landing each day (FAA 2013). 

• The Kake Airport is located about 1 mile south of Kake, on Kupreanof Island. A total of 4,600 

aircraft operations occurred at this airport during 2006 year, with an average of 13 planes either 

taking-off or landing each day (FAA 2013). 

• Floatplanes regularly take-off from and land along waterways near the project area, including

Portage Bay and Duncan Canal.

• There are no established helicopter pads in the analysis area; however, helicopters can take-off 

and land from any stable/clear area that can support the weight of the craft.

Although most of the airspace in Southeast Alaska is uncontrolled, inferences can be made about the 

typical flight paths taken by aircraft in the area. The Petersburg airport runway is situated in a northeast 
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Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Health and Safety, including Noise ▪ 3-263

to southwest direction, indicating that aircraft would be traveling in a northeast-southwest direction when 

taking-off or landing at this airport. Similarly, the Kake airport is situated in a southeast to northwest 

direction, indicating that aircraft would be traveling in these directions when taking-off or landing at this 

airport. Helicopters and floatplanes (which do not require an airport for take-offs/landings) could take-off 

and land in varying directions or orientations; however, floatplanes would likely travel lengthwise along a 

waterway (e.g., north-south in Portage Bay) when taking-off or landing from these areas. 

Weather conditions can affect the likelihood of planes colliding with overhead transmission lines, due to 

reduced visibility as well as high wind events. The climate of Southeast Alaska is moderated by the 

marine influences of the Pacific Ocean. Summer temperatures are cooler and winter temperatures are 

warmer than are expected for other areas at the same latitude. However, the marine influence combined 

with the presence of large mountains produces relatively heavy precipitation in the region. October and 

November are typically the wettest months in this area. Strong winds are frequent, and occur most often 

between October and March. The low clouds and continuous rain in this area often prevent pilots from 

flying under visual flight rules.

Commercial aircraft, small private aircraft and floatplanes, and helicopters all fly at different altitudes. 

Commercial aircraft are expected to maintain a minimum altitude of 500 feet above ground level. In 

general, commercial aircraft do not fly below 500 feet in good weather, except for takeoffs and landings. 

Private aircraft may fly at any altitude, generally flying at an average altitude of 1,500 feet in the summer 

months. However, they can remain at altitudes lower than 100 feet during the winter months, due to severe 

weather constraints. Also, private aircraft are known to fly just above the water to get under low clouds in 

this area. Helicopters in this area will fly at altitudes ranging from just above the ground to 200 feet. 

Environmental Effects 

Effects Common to All Action Alternatives 

Noise 

Construction

The use of heavy equipment (including ground-based equipment as well as helicopters) to prepare 

construction sites, prepare shovel trails and temporary access spurs, transport and install temporary 

matting panels, set transmission structures, string lines, and clean-up/restore disturbed areas would 

generate noise at a level above ambient conditions. This could disturb any sensitive noise receptors (e.g., 

homes, businesses) located near these locations. However, the vast majority of the project crosses 

through undeveloped areas that do not contain sensitive noise receptors. Sensitive noise receptors along 

each of the action alternatives are mainly limited to the portions of the project located near Petersburg and 

Kake. Table NPHS-3 identifies the anticipated noise levels that could occur during construction. These 

noise-related disturbances would be short-term in nature, and would only last as long as construction is 

taking place in the affected area. 

Operation

The proposed transmission line would require limited maintenance. Routine annual inspections would be 

conducted via helicopter to ensure that the transmission line is in fully operational condition. Helicopters 

would be needed to support substantial repairs, such as pole replacements. The right-of-way would also 

require regular maintenance clearing. This clearing would occur at 10-year intervals and would be 

expected to restore the original clearing boundaries. 
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Table NPHS-3. Construction Noise in the Vicinity of a Construction Site

Distance from Construction Site (feet) Hourly Median Noise (dBA)1/

50 89

100 83

200 77

400 71

800 65

1,600 59

Note:

1/ The following assumptions were used to develop the above estimates:

(1) Equipment used were 1 each grader, bulldozer, heavy truck, backhoe, Pneumatic tools, concrete 

pump, crane. 

(2) Reference level noise: 89 dBA (Leq).

(3) Distance for the reference noise level: 50 feet.

(4) Noise attenuation rate: 6 dBA/doubling of distance; this calculation does not include effects of 

local shielding or atmospheric attenuation.

Source: BPA 2003

As sensitive noise receptors along each of the action alternatives are mainly limited to the portions of the 

project located near Petersburg and Kake, noise resulting from routine operation and maintenance is not 

expected to impact residents, as inspection and maintenance crews would be able to use existing state and 

municipal road networks in these locations. If major repairs are required in these locations, noise impacts 

would be similar to those during construction and short-term in nature.

The transmission line itself could generate some noise as a result of the line’s corona, which is the particle 

electrical breakdown of the insulating properties of the air around the conductors. This can produce an 

audible noise level, which is often described as a hissing or crackling noise around the line. This corona 

noise is most noticeable when conductors are wet, which is likely to be often due to the wet weather 

conditions in the area. For transmission lines of 138 kV and less, the corona noise level at the edge of a 

right-of-way is usually less than 40 dBA (Louden 2011); or equivalent to the noise level generated by a 

refrigerator (see Table NPHS-1).

Electric and Magnetic Fields 

Scientific evidence has not established a definitive cause-and-effect relationship between electric and 

magnetic fields and any adverse health effects (NIEHS 1999; NAS 1999; HCN 2001, 2004; NRPB 2001,

2004; IARC 2002). As a result, it is not possible to predict any specific health risks or a specific potential 

level of any disease that could occur to local residents due to exposure to project-related electric and 

magnetic fields. However, it is possible to estimate the magnetic field levels that would likely occur 

around the proposed project, as well as the rate in which the field would degrade as distance from the line 

increases. As shown in Figure NHPS-1, the anticipated magnetic field, from the proposed project 

operated at either 69 kV or 138 kV, would degrade to low levels within 100 feet of the project’s 

centerline. No private residences or other occupied structures are located within 100 feet of the proposed 

centerline under any of the action alternatives, and the proposed alternatives cross mostly undeveloped 

areas. As a result, the potential impacts of project-related magnetic fields on public health and safety are 

expected to be negligible.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Health and Safety, including Noise ▪ 3-265

Figure NPHS-1. Estimated Magnetic Field Strength for the KPI Project 

Aircraft Safety 

The proposed project would comply with all applicable Federal Aviation Administration requirements to 

ensure aircraft safety in the project area. 

Power lines that span water bodies used by floatplanes can provide an obstacle to floatplane landings. 

However, none of the proposed alternatives span these types of water bodies. Major water crossings 

would be via submarine cable or horizontal directional boring under all action alternatives, as described in 

Chapter 2 of this EIS. Further, as described in Chapter 2, the proposed transmission line structures would 

be on average 55 feet tall, which is lower than many of the trees in this area. As a result, the forests 

located either side of the cleared right-of-way would likely be taller than the proposed structures along 

much of the proposed alternative routes. 

Alternative 1 – No Action

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 is the no action alternative and is analyzed to provide a baseline for evaluation of the 

impacts associated with the action alternatives. Under this alternative, the Forest Service would not 

provide authorization for the proposed project and there would be no direct or indirect effects on health 

and safety, including noise, because there would be no transmission line construction or associated 

activities. 

Cumulative Effects

The no action alternative would not contribute to cumulative effects on health and safety, including noise, 

because there would be no transmission line construction or associated activities under this alternative. 
3 Environment and Effects

3-266 ▪ Chapter 3 – Health and Safety, including Noise Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Alternatives 2 and 3 

Direct and Indirect Effects

Potential noise and electric and magnetic field impacts under Alternatives 2 and 3 are described above in 

the Effects Common to all Alternatives section. Sensitive receptors located near the proposed alternatives 

would be exposed to noise during construction, but impacts are expected to be short-term and limited in 

duration. Project-related magnetic fields are expected to have a negligible effect on public health. 

No aerial crossings are proposed for major waterways in the project under these alternatives. The 

proposed transmission line would, however, extend east-west on land approximately 0.4 mile south of 

Portage Bay, which is used by floatplanes for take-offs and landings. The proposed transmission line 

could potentially cross the pathway used by these planes in this location. However, the line in this area 

would be approximately 55 feet above the ground, lower than the surrounding vegetation. As a result, the 

risk of floatplanes colliding with the proposed transmission line in this location is expected to be 

negligible.

Cumulative Effects

Reasonably foreseeable projects in the analysis area are discussed at the beginning of this chapter and 

mainly consist of timber sales, activities associated with timber management or sales, and road 

construction and maintenance activities. The incremental addition of Alternatives 2 and 3 to these 

projects is not expected to result in noise, electric and magnetic field, or aircraft safety impacts 

substantially greater than those disclosed in the preceding section.

The proposed project could, however, affect aircraft operations related to future timber harvests. Future 

timber operations would need to consider the presence of the transmission line during logging and 

transportation planning.

Alternative 4 – Center-South Route

Direct and Indirect Effects

Potential noise and electric and magnetic field impacts under Alternative 4 are described above in the 

Effects Common to all Alternatives section. Sensitive receptors located near the proposed alternative 

would be exposed to noise during construction, but impacts are expected to be short-term and limited in 

duration. Project-related magnetic fields are expected to have a negligible effect on public health. No 

aerial crossings are proposed for major waterways in the project under this alternative. 

Cumulative Effects

Reasonably foreseeable projects in the analysis area are discussed at the beginning of this chapter and 

mainly consist of timber sales, activities associated with timber management or sales, and road 

construction and maintenance activities. The incremental addition of Alternative 4 to these projects is not 

expected to result in noise, electric and magnetic field, or aircraft safety impacts substantially greater than 

those disclosed in the preceding section.

The proposed project could, however, affect aircraft operations related to future timber harvests. Future 

timber operations would need to consider the presence of the transmission line during logging and 

transportation planning.
Environment and Effects 3

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 3 – Other Environmental Considerations ▪ 3-267

Other Environmental Considerations

Relationship between Short-term Uses and Long-term Productivity 

Short-term uses and their effects are those that occur annually or within the first few years of project 

implementation. Long-term productivity refers to the capability of the land and resources to continue 

producing goods and services long after the project has been implemented. Under the Multiple-Use 

Sustained-Yield Act and the NFMA, all renewable resources are to be managed in such a way that they 

are available for future generations. Both short-term and long-term impacts are disclosed by resource in 

the following sections. 

Maintaining the productivity of the land is a complex, long-term objective. All alternatives protect the 

long-term productivity of the project area through the use of specific standards and guidelines, mitigation 

measures, and BMPs. 

The intensity and duration of the effects described in this EIS depend on the alternative and the mitigation 

measures applied to protect the resources. Most unavoidable effects are expected to be short-term. Shortterm effects usually last less than 2 to 5 years. Effects would be managed to comply with established 

legal limits in all cases. Monitoring procedures and mitigation measures have been planned for those 

areas that may be affected to reduce these effects. Specific mitigation measures are documented at the 

end of each applicable resource section in Chapter 3 and summarized in Chapter 2. 

Soil and water are two key factors in ecosystem productivity, and these resources would be protected 

under all alternatives to avoid damage that could take many decades to rectify. Sustained yield of timber, 

wildlife habitat, and other renewable resources all rely on maintaining long-term soil productivity. 

Quality and quantity of water from the project area may fluctuate as a result of short-term uses, but no 

substantial long-term effects to the water resource are expected to occur as a result of the project. 

Construction of temporary shovel trails and temporary access spurs and the use of temporary matting in 

wetland areas would constitute a short-term use of wetland resources. Timber removal within the rightof-way and along temporary access spurs is expected to slightly alter the hydrology of affected wetlands

for several years after impact. Soil moisture levels are expected to rise slightly following initial impact 

due to the loss of canopy interception. Soil moisture levels are anticipated to return to near pre-cut levels 

as second-growth establishes and provides canopy cover across temporarily impacted areas (e.g., along 

temporary access spurs outside the cleared right-of-way); however, clearing within the right-of-way 

would be maintained, resulting in a long-term change in wetland productivity in these areas. 

Project activities are expected to disturb soils. These small-scale disturbances do not pose adverse effects 

to long-term soil productivity. Due to the thick organic mat covering most mineral soils, surface erosion 

would be limited to detrimentally displaced areas, areas associated with temporary shovel trails, 

temporary matting, and temporary access spurs, windthrow, stream banks, and recent landslide tracks. 

All alternatives would provide the habitat necessary to contribute to the maintenance of viable, welldistributed populations of existing native and desired non-native vertebrate species. The abundance and 

diversity of wildlife species depends on the quality, quantity, and distribution of habitat, whether used for 

breeding, feeding, or resting. MIS are used to represent the habitat requirements of all fish and wildlife 

species found in the project area. All alternatives provide standards, guidelines, and mitigation measures 

for maintaining long-term habitat and species productivity. 

Opportunities for developed and dispersed recreation use including fishing, hunting, OHV use, hiking and 

wildlife viewing, and camping would be maintained. The long-term potential for the project area, to 

provide a spectrum of recreation opportunities would be maintained under all alternatives. 
3 Environment and Effects 

3-268 ▪ Chapter 3 – Other Environmental Considerations Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Resources 

“Irreversible commitments” is a term that describes the loss of future options. It applies primarily to the 

effects of the use of non-renewable resources, such as minerals or cultural resources, or to those factors 

such as soil productivity that are only renewable over long periods of time. Once these resources are 

gone, they cannot be replaced. Potential irreversible commitments related to the KPI Project are as 

follows:

• Loss of soil due to erosion and mass failures is an irreversible commitment of resources. The loss 

of soil resources has been minimized to the extent feasible in all action alternatives by following 

R10 Soil Quality Standards, incorporating BMPs, and applying mitigation measures specified in 

this document. 

• Loss of cultural resource sites resulting from accidental damage or vandalism would be an 

irreversible commitment of resources. Standards and guidelines, survey methodology prior to 

activities, and mitigation measures specified in this document provide reasonable assurance that 

no irreversible loss of cultural resources would occur. 

“Irretrievable commitments” is a term that applies to the loss of production, harvest, or use of natural 

resources. For example, some or all of the timber production from an area is lost irretrievably while an 

area is serving as a winter sports site. The production lost is irretrievable, but the action is not 

irreversible. If the use changes, it is possible to resume timber production. Potential irretrievable 

commitments related to the KPI project area:

• Timber productivity would be lost within the permanently cleared right-of-way.

• Although vegetation would be restored in some temporarily disturbed areas (e.g., along 

temporary access spurs outside the cleared right-of-way), old-growth forest structure would be 

converted to even-aged young forest structure. 

• IRAs are set aside to determine their eligibility for inclusion into the National Wilderness 

Preservation System. Once an area is roaded, it is generally no longer available for wilderness 

consideration. No new roads are proposed under the action alternatives, but loss of timber due 

vegetative clearing and maintenance in the right-of-way within IRAs would have irretrievable 

effects to the character of the affected IRA. 

Unavoidable Adverse Environmental Effects 

Implementation of any action alternative would cause some adverse environmental effects that cannot be 

effectively mitigated or avoided. Unavoidable adverse effects often result from managing the land for 

multiple resources. Many adverse effects can be reduced, mitigated, or avoided by limiting the extent or 

duration of an activity. The route selection process for the proposed alternatives was designed to 

minimize adverse consequences by following existing infrastructure wherever possible. The application 

of Forest Plan standards and guidelines, best management practices, and project-specific mitigation 

measures are all intended to further limit the extent, severity, and duration of potential effects; however, 

some adverse effects that cannot be completely mitigated would still occur. The specific environmental 

effects of the alternatives were discussed earlier in this chapter; mitigation measures are documented at 

the end of each applicable resource section in Chapter 3 and summarized in Chapter 2. 

Unavoidable adverse impacts would include the loss of old-growth habitats for wildlife and plants that 

prefer these habitats over other habitats for some component of their life histories. 
Chapter 4

References and Lists
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4-22 ▪ Chapter 4 – References and Lists Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS

List of Preparers ____________________ This chapter identifies the preparers and major contributors/reviewers for this EIS and 

summarizes their education and experience levels.

Preparers:

Steve Negri, IDT Leader/Tetra Tech Project Manager

Education: M.S. Wildlife Ecology, Michigan State University, 1995 

B.S. Business Finance, University of Missouri, 1985 

Professional Experience: 18 years

Matt Dadswell, Tetra Tech EIS Manager 

Education: Ph.D. studies, Geography, University of Washington 

M.A. Geography, University of Cincinnati, 1990 

B.A. Economics and Geography, Portsmouth Polytechnic, 1988 

Professional Experience: 20 years

Kathryn Beck, Botanist 

Education: B.S. Environmental Sciences, Western Washington University, 1982 

B.A. Biology, Western Washington University, 1982 

Professional Experience: 31 years

Karen Brimacombe, Botanist

Education: M.S. Botany, University of Hawaii, 2003 

B.A. Psychology, Miami University, 1992 

Professional Experience: 14 years

David Cox, Geologist/Hydrologist 

Education: B.S. Geology, Western Washington University, 2000 

Professional Experience: 11 years 

John Crookston, Ecologist 

Education: M.S. Ecology, San Diego State University, 2007 

B.S. Biology, University of California San Diego, 2002 

Professional Experience: 12 years

Weber Greiser, Archaeologist

Education: Graduate coursework in Anthropology, University of Colorado 

M.A. Anthropology, University of New Mexico 

B.A. Anthropology, University of New Mexico 

Professional Experience: 41 years

Jennifer Hawkins, Environmental Scientist

Education: B.S. Environmental Science, Marist College, 1994 

Professional Experience: 16 years

Chris James, Hydrologist 

Education: M.S. Forest Hydrology, University of Washington, 2007 

Graduate studies in Environmental Management and Engineering, Portland State University 
References and Lists 4

B.A. Environmental Resources (Chemistry minor), Lewis and Clark College, 1999

Professional Experience: 7 years (including 2 years with the Forest Service and BLM)

Rachael Katz, Environmental Planner

Education: M.P.A. Environmental Policy and Natural Resource Management, University of 

Washington, 2011

B.A. Political Science and German Studies, New York University, 2005

Professional Experience: 10 years

John Knutzen, Fish Biologist

Education: M.S. Fisheries, University of Washington, 1977

B.A. Biology, Western Washington State College, 1972

Professional Experience: 34 years

Sierra Marrs, GIS Analyst

Education: Certificate, GIS, Green River Community College, 2005

B.S. Environmental Geology, Western Washington University, 2003

Professional Experience: 8 years

Teresa Opolka, Ecologist

Education: B.S. Biology, Seattle University, 1998

Professional Experience: 13 years

MaryJo Watson, GIS Analyst

Education: B.S. Computer Information Systems, Menlo College

Professional Experience: 19 years

Brita Woeck, Wildlife Biologist

Education: M.S. Wildlife Ecology and Management, University of Missouri, 2003

B.S. Wildlife Science, University of Washington, 1999

Professional Experience: 12 years 

Major Contributors/Reviewers:

Jason C. Anderson, District Ranger 

Education: B.A. Biological Sciences, California State University - Stanislaus, 1997 

Forest Service experience: 18 years 

Tom Parker, Supervisory Resource Staff

Education: B.S. Natural Resource Management, Sheldon Jackson College

Forest Service experience: 26 years

Karen Iwamoto, NEPA Coordinator

Education: B.A. Anthropology & History, Oregon State University

Forest Service experience: 32 years

Mary Clemens, Botanist

Education: B.S. Forest Management, Washington State University

Forest Service experience: 32 years

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 4 – References and Lists ▪ 4-23
4 References and Lists

Jason D Dungan, Wildlife Biologist

Education: B.S. Wildlife Biology, Southwest Missouri State University; MS Wildlife Resources,

University of Idaho

Forest Service experience: 4 years

Rodd Kubitza, Transportation Planner

Education: B.S. Forest Engineering Oregon State University

Forest Service experience: 38 years

Heidi Lombard, Fisheries Biologist

Education: B.S. Fisheries Biology, Humboldt State University

Forest Service experience: 12 years

Steven Lombard, Timber

Education: B.S. Forestry, Texas A&M

Forest Service experience: 12 years

Gene Primaky, GIS Analyst

Education: Bemidji State University; Certificate of Forestry, Alaska Vocational Technical

College

Forest Service experience 21 years

Becki Reynold, Soil Scientist

Education: B.S. Soil and Land Resources, University of Idaho 

Forest Service experience: 8 years 

Jane Smith, Archaeologist

Education: B.S. Socio-Anthropology, Radford University

Forest Service experience: 22 years

Julianne Thompson, Forest Hydrologist 

Education: B.S. Natural Resources Management, California Polytechnic State University, 1985 

Graduate studies in Wildland Hydrology, Colorado State University 1985-1988 

Forest Service experience: 20 years 

Heath Whitacre, Hydrologist

Education: B.S. Environmental Biology, Fort Lewis College; M.S. Watershed Science, Utah 

State University

Forest Service experience: 12 years

Marina Whitacre, Writer-Editor

Education: B.A. Biology, Colorado College; MS Range Science, Utah State University

Forest Service experience: 10 years

4-24 ▪ Chapter 4 – References and Lists Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS
References and Lists 4

Distribution List _____________________

A copy of this Draft EIS or an electronic or hard copy letter with a link to the online copy was 

sent to the following parties. These parties either commented on the project, requested a copy of 

the Draft EIS during scoping or at some other time during the NEPA process, or are part of the 

Tongass National Forest mandatory mailing list (Forest Service Handbook 1909.15, Sections 

23.2 and 63.1).

Agencies 

State of Alaska, Department of 

Environmental Conservation

State of Alaska, Department of Fish and 

Game (Division of Habitat; Division of 

Wildlife Conservation)

State of Alaska, Department of Natural

Resources (Division of Coastal and Ocean 

Management; Division of Forestry; Office 

of Project Management and Permitting; 

Office of History and Archeology; Trust 

Land Office)

US Advisory Council on Historic 

Preservation

US Air Force 611th

US Army Corps of Engineers, Juneau 

Regulatory Field Office

US Army Engineer District

US Army Engineers, Pacific Ocean Division

US Coast Guard, Environmental 

Management

US Department of Commerce, NOAA, 

National Marine Fisheries Service, Protected 

Resources Management Division

US Department of Commerce, NOAA, 

Office of Policy and Strategic Planning

US Department of Energy, Office of NEPA 

Policy and Compliance

US Department of Transportation, Federal 

Aviation Administration

US Department of Transportation, Federal 

Highway Administration

USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection 

Service (APHIS), Policy and Program 

Development (PPD) and Environmental 

Analysis Development (EAD)

USDA Forest Service, Alaska Region

USDA Forest Service, National Director of 

Ecosystem Management Coordination

USDA Forest Service, Tongass National 

Forest, Supervisor’s Office

USDA Forest Service, Tongass National 

Forest (Craig Ranger District; KetchikanMisty Ranger District; Petersburg Ranger 

District; Thorne Bay Ranger District;

Wrangell Ranger District)

USDA Natural Resources Conservation 

Service

USDA Office of Civil Rights

USDI Bureau of Land Management, BLM 

Alaska State Office

USDI Fish and Wildlife Service

USDI National Park Service, Alaska Area 

Region

USDI Office of Environmental Policy and 

Compliance

USDI Office of the Secretary

US Environmental Protection Agency, 

Alaska Operations Office 

US Environmental Protection Agency, EIS 

Review Coordinator

US Environmental Protection Agency, 

Office of Federal Activities

Kake to Petersburg Transmission Line Intertie Draft EIS Chapter 4 – References and Lists ▪ 4-25
4 References and Lists

US Government Printing Office

US Navy, Office of Chief of Navy 

Operations

Libraries

Craig Public Library

Kake Public Library

Ketchikan Public Library

Library of Congress

Petersburg Public Library

Quinney Library, Utah State University

University of Minnesota Forestry Library

USDA National Agricultural Library

Irene Ingle Public Library, Wrangell

Organizations and Business

Alaska Charters and Adventures

Alaska Fibre

Alaska Forest Association

Alaska Peak and Seas

Alaska Sea Adventures

Alaska Wilderness League

Alaska Wildlife Alliance

Alcan Forest Products

Alder Woodshop

Big ‘R’ Manufacturing

Bluewater Adventures, Ltd.

Cascadia Wildlands 

Center for Biological Diversity

Concerned Alaskans for Resources and 

Environment (C.A.R.E)

Concrete Connection

Earth Justice Legal Defense

Falls Creek Forest Products

Forest Service Employees for 

Environmental Ethics

Friends of the Forest

Glacier Guides, Inc.

Greater Southeast Alaska Conservation 

Community (GSACC)

Greenpeace

Juneau Group of the Sierra Club

Mike Allen Enterprises

The Mill

National Audubon Society

Natural Resource Defense Council

The Nature Conservancy of Alaska

Parker Guide Services, Inc.

Petersburg Chamber of Commerce

Petersburg Economic Development Council

Rain Forest Wood Products

Reid Brothers Construction, Inc.

Robotic Cuts

Rock N Road Construction, Inc.

Sitka Conservation Society

Southeast Alaska Conservation Council 

(SEACC)

Southeast Alaska Subsistence Regional 

Advisory Council

Southeast Conference

Tongass Conservation Society

Tongass Futures Roundtable

Tongass Kayak Adventures, Ltd.

Trout Unlimited

University of Alaska Land Management

The Woodshed

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References and Lists 4

Public Officials and Offices

Bert Stedman, Alaska State Senator

Butch Anderson, Kupreanof Council

John Coghill, Alaska State Senator

City of Kake

Ketchikan Gateway Borough

City of Kupreanof

Petersburg Borough

City of Port Alexander

City and Borough of Sitka

Don Young, United States Congressman

Lisa Murkowski, United States Senator

Mark Begich, United States Senator

Peggy Wilson, Alaska State Representative

Sean Parnell, Alaska Governor

Tribal Governments/Officials

Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida 

Indian Tribes of Alaska

Kake Tribal Corporation

Organized Village of Kake

Petersburg Indian Association

Sealaska Corporation, President

Sealaska Heritage Institute, President

Wrangell Cooperative Association

Media

KFSK Public Radio

Petersburg Pilot

Individuals

Richard Artley

Dave Beebe

Mike Bell

Hilary Burgess

Jim Cariello

Mary Ellen Clark

Marlene Cushing

Kevin Doerty

Susan Erickson

Kate Ericsson

Marjorie File

Mary Harrop

Molly Hogan

Frank Hughes

Brad Hunter

Deborah Hurley

Greg Katason

Joan Kautzer

Don Koenigs

Pauline Lee

Eric Lee

Doug Leen

Emma Llewellyn

Sigurd Mathisen

Karin McCullough

Harold Medalen

George Meintal

Kevin Merry

Isabel Mills

Joel Mullen

Luke Mullen

Craig Olson

Jeremy Parker

Wayne Parks

Tyrone Paul

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4 References and Lists

Ned Pence

Tim Piazza

Jay and Carolyn Pritchett

David B. Randrup

Becky Regula

Hal Rhodes

Allison Rice

Beverly Richardson

David and Sally Riemer

Ruth Sandvik

Homer and Myra Sarber

Carol Schaake

Michael Schaake

Forest Sebastian

Joseph Sebastian

Marja Smets

Michael Stainbrook

Leslie Stancliff

Samual Stancliff

Jim Steward

Teresa Streuli

Shannon Sullivan

Vaughn Thomas

Russell Thymes

Dana Thynes

Bill Tremblay

Emil Tucker

Greg Turcott

Sarah Wagstaff

Suzanne West

John Wigren

Candace Williams

Linda Williams

Charles Wood

Emily Yates-Doerr

Alice Young

Butch Young

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Glossary ___________________________ Abiotic: Non-living. Climate is an abiotic component of ecosystems. 

Access: The opportunities to approach, enter, and make use of public lands. 

Access management: Acquiring rights and developing and maintaining facilities needed by people to get 

to and move through public lands (physical attributes). 

Active channel: As defined for purposes of the riparian standards and guidelines includes stream 

channels, secondary channels, and braided channels. For the Alluvial Fan Process Group, it also includes 

gravel outwash lobes. 

Adfluvial fish: Species of populations of fish that do not go to sea, but live in lakes and enter streams to 

spawn. 

Affected environment: The natural environment that exists at the present time in an area being analyzed. 

Age class: A distinct aggregation of trees originating from a single natural even or regeneration activity, 

or a grouping of trees, e.g., 10-year age class, as used in inventory or management. 

Alaska Heritage Resource Survey (AHRS): The official list of cultural resources in the State of Alaska, 

maintained by the Office of History and Archaeology, Alaska Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation. 

Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA): Passed by Congress in ecosystem 1980, 

this legislation designated 14 National Forest wilderness areas in Southeast Alaska. The Alaska National 

Interest Lands Conservation Act of December 2, 1980. Public Law 96-487, 96th Congress, 94 Stat. 

2371-2551. Section 810 requires evaluations of subsistence impacts before changing the use of these 

lands. 

Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA): Public Law 92-203, 92nd Congress, 85 Stat. 2371-

2551. Approved December 18, 1971, ANCSA provides for the settlement of certain land claims of 

Alaska natives and for other purposes. 

All-terrain vehicle (ATV): A gasoline powered, off-road vehicle used for accessing rote areas for 

recreational and work related activities: note all-terrain vehicles generally have high clearance, high 

traction, high maneuverability and low speed. See Off-road vehicle 

Alluvial fan: A cone-shaped deposit of organic and mineral material made by a stream where it runs out 

onto a level plain or meets a slower stream. 

Alluvium: Recent soil deposits resulting from modern rivers, including the sediment laid down in river 

beds, flood plains, lakes and at the foot of mountain slopes and estuaries. 

Alpine: Parts of mountains above tree growth. 

Amphipods: Any member of the invertebrate order Amphipoda (class Crustacea) inhabiting all parts of 

the sea, lakes, rivers, sand beaches, caves, and moist (warm) habitats on many tropical islands. 

Anadromous fish: Fish which mature and spend much of their adult life in the ocean, returning to inland 

waters to spawn. Salmon and steelhead are examples of anadromous species of fish. 

Anadromous Fisheries Habitat Assessment: An assessment conducted in 1994 within the Tongass 

National Forest (published in 1995) to study the effectiveness of current procedures for protecting 

anadromous fish habitat and to determine the need for any additional protection. 

Aquatic ecosystem: A stream, channel, lake or estuary bed, the water itself, and the biotic communities 

that occur therein. 

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Aquatic Habitat Management Unit class: See stream classes 

Aquifer: A saturated, permeable geologic unit of sediment or rock that can transmit significant quantities 

of water under ordinary hydraulic gradients. 

Aspect: The direction a slope faces. A hillside facing east has an eastern aspect. 

Average-snow deer habitat: POG forest below 1,500 feet. POG is defined as all seven-size 

classifications including SD-4H, SD-4N, SD-4S, SD-5H, SD-5N, SD-5S, and SD-67 in the SDM GIS

data. It is considered in reference to deer winter habitat. Also called average-snow deer winter range. 

Background: The distant part of a landscape. The seen or viewed area located from 3 or 5 miles to 

infinity from the viewer (see also “Foreground” and “Middleground”). 

Bankfull width: The width of the wetted channel when the water surface is at the same elevation as the 

active floodplain. 

Basal area: The area of the cross section of a tree trunk near its base, usually 4 1/2 feet above the ground. 

Basal area is a way to measure how much of a site is occupied by trees. The term basal area is often used 

to describe the collective basal area of trees per acre. 

Beach fringe: The area inland from salt water shorelines that is typically forested. 

Bedload: Sand, silt, and gravel, or soil and rock debris rolled along the bottom of a stream by the moving 

water. 

Benthic: Pertaining to the sea bottom or to organisms that live on the sea bottom. 

Best management practice (BMP): Land management methods, measures or practices selected by an 

agency to meet its non-point source control needs. BMPs include, but are not limited to structural and 

non-structural controls and operation and maintenance procedures. BMPs can be applied before, during 

and after pollution-producing activities to reduce or eliminate the introduction of pollutants into receiving 

waters. BMPs are selected on the basis of site-specific conditions that reflect natural background 

conditions and political, social, economic, and technical feasibility. BMPs are found in Forest Service 

Handbook (FSH) 2509. 

Biogeographic provinces: Twenty-one ecological subdivisions of Southeast Alaska that are identified by 

generally distinct ecological, physiogeographic, and biogeographic features. Plant and animal species 

composition, climate, and geology within each province are generally more similar within than among 

adjacent provinces. Historical events (such as glaciers and uplifting) are important to the nature of the 

province and to the barriers that distinguish each province. 

Biological assessment: A biological analysis conducted for major Federal construction projects requiring 

an environmental impact statement, in accordance with legal requirements under Section 7 of the 

Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1536). The purpose of the assessment and resulting document is to 

determine whether the proposed action is likely to affect a species that has been listed or proposed as an 

endangered or threatened species. 

Biological diversity: The number and abundance of species found within a common environment. This 

includes the variety of genes, species, ecosystems, and the ecological processes that connect everything in 

a common environment. 

Biological evaluation: A documented USDA Forest Service review of programs and activities that 

contains sufficient detail to determine how an action or proposed action may affect any species that has 

been listed or proposed as threatened, endangered, or sensitive. 

Biomass: The total weight of all living organisms in a biological community. 

Biotic: Living. Green plants and soil microorganisms are biotic components of ecosystems. 

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Blowdown: See Windthrow. 

Board foot: A measurement term for lumber or timber. It is the amount of wood contained in an 

unfinished board 1 inch thick, 12 inches long, and 12 inches wide. 

Braided streams or channels: A stream flowing in several dividing and reuniting channels resembling 

the strands of a braid, the cause of division being the obstruction by sediment deposited by the stream. FP 

7-5 

Browse: Twigs, leaves, and young shoots of trees and shrubs that animals eat. Browse is often used to 

refer to the shrubs eaten by big game, such as elk and deer. 

Buffer: A vegetative strip or management zone of varying size, shape, and character maintained along a 

stream, lake, road, recreation site, or different vegetative zone to mitigate the impacts of action as on 

adjacent lands. 

Canopy: The part of any stand of trees represented by the tree crowns. It usually refers to the uppermost 

layer of foliage, but it can be use to describe lower layers in a multi-storied forest. 

Capability: The potential of an area of land to produce resources, supply goods and services, and allow 

resource uses under an assumed set of management practices and at a given level of management 

intensity. 

Carrying capacity: The estimated maximum number of animals that can be sustained over the long-term 

in an area. 

Cavity: A hole in a tree often used by wildlife species, usually birds, for nesting, roosting, and 

reproduction. 

CFR: Code of Federal Regulations 

Channel: A natural waterway of perceptible extent that periodically or continuously contains moving 

water. It has a definite bed and banks which serve to confine the water. 

Channel type: A means of distinguishing parts of a stream system into segments that have fairly 

consistent physical and biological characteristics. For descriptions, see “Channel Type Field Guide,” 

Forest Service publication R10-MB-6. 

Clearcut: Harvesting method in which essentially all trees are cleared in one cut. It prepares the area for 

a new, even-aged stand. The area harvested may be a patch, stand, or strip large enough to be mapped or 

recorded as a separate age class in planning. 

Climax: The culminating stage in plant succession for a given site. Climax vegetation is stable, selfmaintaining, and self-reproducing. 

Coarse Canopy Old-growth Forest: Old-growth forest that has lower crown density (number of trees) 

and non-uniform crown sizes and heights including large crowns and many canopy gaps. 

Code of Federal Regulations (CFR): A codification of the general and permanent rules published in the 

Federal Register by the executive departments and agencies of the federal government. 

Commercial forest: Forest land tentatively suitable for the production of continuous crops of timber and 

that has not been withdrawn. 

Composition: What an ecosystem is composed of. Composition could include water, minerals, trees, 

snags, wildlife, soil, microorganisms, and plant species, 

Conifer: A tree that produces cones, such as a pine, spruce, or fir tree. 

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Connectivity (of habitats): A measure of the extent that forest areas between or outside reserves provide 

habitat for breeding, feeding, dispersal, and movement. 

Corridor: Elements of the landscape that connect similar areas. Streamside vegetation may create a 

corridor of willows and hardwoods between meadows where wildlife feed. 

Cover: Any feature that conceals wildlife or fish. Cover may be dead or live vegetation, boulders, or 

undercut stream banks. Animals use cover to escape from predators, rest, or feed. 

Critical habitat: Specific areas designated as critical by the Secretary of Interior or Commerce for the 

survival and recovery of species listed as threatened or endangered pursuant to the Endangered Species 

Act. 

Crown (of a tree): The tree canopy; the upper part of a tree or woody plant that carries the main branch 

system and foliage. 

Cultural resources: Cultural resources on the Tongass National Forest include a diverse array of historic 

properties that represent ancient and historic sites and artifacts.

Cumulative effects: Effects on the environment that result from separate, individual actions that, 

collectively, becomes significant over time. 

Decommissioning: To remove those elements of a road or buildings that reroute hillslope drainage and 

present slope stability hazards. For NFS roads, decommissioning removes the road from the long-term 

forest road transportation system. Otherwise, decommissioning is the same for all roads. Action on the 

ground for decommissioning ranges from blocking the entrance and removing drainage structures to 

obliterating the road, returning the natural contours, and replanting vegetation. The end result is the 

stabilization and restoration of unneeded roads to a more natural state (36 CFR 212.1). See also Road 

Decommissioning. 

DBH: See diameter at breast height. 

Deep-snow winter range: HPOG is forested habitat below 800 feet on south- and west-facing aspects 

(HPOG is equivalent to SD-5S, SD-5N and SD-67), and is considered in reference to deer and marten 

winter habitat. 

Deer winter range (Habitat): An area, usually at lower elevation, used by big game during the winter 

months; usually smaller and better-defined than summer ranges. 

Developed recreation: That type of recreation that occurs where modifications (improvements) enhance 

recreation opportunities and accommodate intensive recreation activities in a defined area. 

Development LUDs: Land use designations that permit commercial timber harvest (Timber Production, 

Modified Landscape, and Scenic Viewshed) and convert some of the old-growth forest to early-to-midsuccessional, regulated forests. 

Diameter at breast height (DBH): The diameter of the stem of a tree measured at breast height 4.5 feet 

from the ground. Note: on sloping ground the measure is taken from the uphill side. 

Direct employment: The jobs that are immediately associated with a given activity. 

Dispersed recreation: That type of recreation use that requires few, if any, improvements and may occur 

over a wide area. This type of recreation involves activities related to roads, trails and undeveloped 

waterways and beaches. The activities do not necessarily take place on or adjacent to a road, trail, or 

waterway, only in conjunction with it. Activities are often dayuse oriented and include hunting, fishing, 

boating, off-road vehicle use, hiking and among others. 

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Distance zones: Areas of landscapes denoted by specified distances from the observer (foreground, 

middleground or background). Used as a frame of reference in which to discuss landscape characteristics 

of Management activities. 

Disturbance: A force that results in changes in the structure and composition through natural events such 

as wind, fire, flood, avalanche, or mortality caused by insect or disease outbreaks or by human caused 

events (e.g., timber harvest) 

Draft Environmental Impact Statement (Draft EIS): The version of the statement of environmental 

effects required for major Federal actions under Section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act 

(NEPA) and released to the public and other agencies for review and comment. 

Early forest succession: The biotic (or life) community that develops immediately following the removal 

or destruction of vegetation in an area. For instance, grasses may be the first plants to grow in an area 

that was burned. 

Ecological subsections: Eighty-five terrestrial ecosystems mapped and described for Southeast Alaska 

and adjourning areas of Canada (Nowacki et al. 2001). These mid-sized terrestrial ecosystems body 

similar ecological characteristics including landforms, streams, vegetation, soils, and wetlands. They 

provide a practical basis for ecosystem management, planning, and research. 

Ecology: The interrelationships of living things to one another and the environment, or the study of these 

interrelationships. 

Edge: The more or less well defined boundary between two or more elements of the environment, e.g., a 

field adjacent to a woodland or the boundary of different silvicultural treatments. 

Effects: Effects, impacts, and consequences as used in this Environmental Impact Statement are 

synonymous. Effects may be ecological (such as the effects on natural resources and on the components, 

structures, and functioning of affected ecosystems), aesthetic, historical, cultural, economic, or social, and 

may be direct, indirect, or cumulative. 

Direct effects: Results of an action occurring when and where the action takes place. 

Indirect effects: Results of an action occurring at a location other than where the action takes place 

and/or later in time, but in the reasonably foreseeable future. 

Cumulative effects: Results of collective past, present and reasonably foreseeable future actions. 

Element (of ecosystems): An identifiable component, process, or condition of an ecosystem. 

Endangered species: Any species of animal or plant that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a 

significant portion of its range. Plant or animal species identified and defined in accordance with the 

1973 Endangered Species Act and published in the Federal Register. 

Endemic: Restricted to a particular locality. For example, a particular species or subspecies may occur 

on only one or a very few islands. 

Environmental analysis: An analysis of alternative actions and their predictable short and long-term 

environmental effects, incorporating the physical, biological, economic, social and environmental design 

arts and their interactions. 

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS): A document prepared by a federal agency in which anticipated 

environmental effects of a planned course of action or development are evaluated. A federal statute 

(Section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969) requires that such statements be 

prepared. It is prepared first in draft or review form, and then in a final form. An impact statement 

includes the following pints: (1) the environmental impact of the proposed action, (2) any adverse impacts 

which cannot be avoided by the action, (3) the alternative courses of actions, (4) the relationships between 

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4 References and Lists

local short-term productivity, and (5) a description of the irreversible and irretrievable commitment of 

resources which would occur if the action were accomplished 

Erosion: The wearing away of the land surface by running water, wind, ice, gravity or other geological 

activities. 

Escape cover: Vegetation of sufficient size and density to hide an animal, or an area used by animals to 

escape predators. 

Estuary: An ecological system at the mouth of a stream where fresh water and salt water mix, and where 

salt marshes and intertidal mudflats are present. The landward extent of an estuary is the limit of saltintolerant vegetation, and the seaward extent is a stream’s delta at mean low water. 

Even-aged Management: The application of a combination of actions that result in the creation of stands 

in which trees of essentially the same age grow together. The difference in age between trees in forming 

the main canopy level of a stand usually does not exceed 20 percent of that age of the stand at harvest 

rotation age. Clearcut, shelter wood, or seed tree cutting methods produce even-aged stands. 

Executive Order: An order or regulation issued by the President or some administrative authority under 

his or her direction. 

Existing Scenic Integrity (ESI): Describes the visual appearance of the landscape at the time the project 

area scenery assessment in conducted. ESI is measured by the following condition types, as described in 

the Forest Plan: 

Type I: Landscapes where only ecological change has occurred, except for trails needed for access. 

Landscapes appear to be untouched by human activities. 

Type II: Landscapes where change is not noticed by the average forest visitor unless pointed out. These 

landscapes have been altered but changes are not perceptible. 

Type III: Landscapes where changes are noticeable by the average forest visitor, but they do not attract 

attention. Changes appear to be minor disturbances. 

Type IV: Landscapes where changes are easily noticed by the average forest visitor and may attract 

attention. Changes appear as disturbances but resemble natural patterns in the landscape. 

Type V: Landscapes where changes are very noticeable and would be obvious to the average forest 

visitor. Changes tend to stand out, dominating the view of the landscape, but are shaped to resemble 

natural patterns. 

Type VI: Landscapes where changes are in glaring contrast to the landscape’s natural appearance. 

Changes appear as dramatic, large scale disturbances that strongly affect the average forest visitor. 

Felling: The cutting down of trees. 

Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS): The final version of the statement of environmental 

effects required for major federal actions under Section 102 of the National Environmental Policy Act. It 

is a revision of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) to include public and agency responses 

to the draft. The decision maker chooses which alternative to select from the FEIS, and subsequently 

issues a Record of Decision (ROD). 

Fiscal year (FY): October 1 through September 30. The Fiscal Year is referred to by the calendar year 

which begins on January 1. For example, October 1, 1996, through September 30, 1997 is referred to as 

Fiscal Year 1997. 

Fisheries habitat: Streams, lakes, and reservoirs that support fish, or have the potential to support fish. 

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Fish passage barrier: A point in a stream which presents a barrier to some life stage of a fish species, 

also called “red pipes” in some Agency documents; e.g. barriers may be the lip of a culvert placed too 

high for juvenile fish, or a series of natural falls that do not allow any fish passage. 

Floodplain: That portion of a river valley, adjacent to the river channel, which is covered with water 

when the river overflows its banks at flood stages in response to a 100 year storm event. 

Fluvial: Of, or pertaining to streams and rivers. 

Forage: All browse and non-woody plants that are eaten by wildlife and livestock. 

Forb: A grouping/category of herbaceous plants which are not included in the grass, shrub or tree 

groupings/categories; generally smaller flowering plants. 

Foreground: A term used in visual management to describe the stand of trees immediately adjacent to a 

scenic area, recreation facility or forest highway. The area is located less than 1/4 mile from the viewer. 

(See Background and Middleground.) 

Forest health: An expression of the relationship among biotic and abiotic influences on the forest (i.e., 

insects, diseases, atmospheric deposition, silvicultural treatments, harvesting objectives for a given forest 

unit now or in the future and sustain long-term site productivity. 

Forest Road or Trail: A road or trail wholly or partly within or adjacent to and serving the National 

Forest System that the Forest Service determines is necessary for the protection, administration, and 

utilization of the National Forest System and the use and development of its resources. (36 CFR 212.1) 

Forested land: Land at least 10 percent occupied by forest trees of any size or formerly having had such 

tree cover and not currently developed for non-forest use. 

Forest Plan: Source of management direction for an individual Forest specifying activity and output 

levels for a period of 10-15 years. Management direction in the Plan is based on the issues identified at 

the time of the Plan’s development. 

Forest Road or Trail: A road or trail wholly or partly within or adjacent to and serving the National 

Forest System that the Forest Service determines is necessary for the protection, administration, and 

utilization of the National Forest System and the use and development of its resources (36 CFR 212.1). 

Forest Supervisor: The official responsible for administering National Forest lands on an administrative 

unit, usually one or more National Forests. The Forest Supervisor reports to the Regional Forester. 

Forest Transportation Atlas: A display of the System of roads, trails, and airfields of an administrative 

unit. 

Forest Transportation Facility: A forest road or trail or an airfield that is displayed in a forest 

transportation atlas, including bridges, culverts, parking lots, marine access facilities, safety devices, and 

other improvements appurtenant to the forest transportation system (36 CFR 212.1). 

Forest Transportation System: The system of National Forest System roads, National Forest System 

trails, and airfields on National Forest System lands (36 CFR 212.1). 

Forest-wide Standards and Guidelines (S&Gs): A set of rules and guidance that directs management 

activities and establishes the environmental quality, natural renewable and depletable resource 

requirements, conservation potential, and mitigation measures that apply to several land use designations. 

Fragmentation: An element of biological diversity that describes the natural condition of habitats in 

terms of the size of discrete habitat blocks or patches, their distribution, the extent to which they are 

interconnected, and the effects of Management on these natural conditions. Also the process of reducing 

the size and connectivity of stands within a forest. 

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FSH: Forest Service Handbook 

FSM: Forest Service Manual 

Fuels: Plants and woody vegetation, both living and dead, that is capable of burning. 

Fuelwood: Wood cut into short lengths for burning. 

Function: All the processes within an ecosystem through which the elements interact, such as succession, 

the food chain, fire, weather, and the hydrologic cycle. 

Game species: Any species of wildlife or fish that is harvested according to prescribed limits and 

seasons. 

Geographic Information System (GIS): Information processing technology to input, store, manipulate, 

analyze, and display spatial and attribute data to support the decision making process. It is a system of 

computer maps with corresponding site-specific information that can be electronically combined to 

provide reports and maps 

Geomorphology: The study of the forms of the land surface and the processes producing these surfaces. 

Also the study of the underlying rocks or parent materials and the landforms present that were formed in 

geological time. 

Ground water: Water within the earth that supplies wells and springs. Specifically, water in the zone of 

saturation where openings in soils and rocks are filled; the upper surface level forms the water table. 

Guideline: A preferred or advisable course of action or level of attainment designed to promote 

achievement of goals and objectives. 

Habitat: The sum total of environmental conditions of a specific place occupied by wildlife or plant 

species or a population of each species. 

Habitat capability: The estimated maximum number of fish or wildlife that can be supported by the 

amount and distribution of suitable habitat in an area. 

Habitat diversity: The number of different types of wildlife habitat within a given area. 

Habitat Suitability Index (HSI): A measure of the capability of the habitat to support deer, based on a 

variety of environmental factors, for example, slope, elevation, aspect, and forest type. 

Habitat type: A way to classify land area. A habitat type can support certain climax vegetation, both tree 

and undergrowth species. Habitat typing can indicate the biological potential of a site. 

Historic properties: The physical rains of districts, sites, structures, buildings, networks, events, or 

objects used by humans in the past. They may be historic, prehistoric, architectural, or archival in nature. 

Heritage properties are non-renewable aspects of our national heritage. 

Hydric soil: A soil that is wet long enough to periodically produce anaerobic conditions, thereby 

influencing the growth of plants. 

Hydrologic cycle: The complete cycle, through which water passes, commencing as atmospheric water 

vapor, passing into liquid and solid form as precipitation, thence along or into the ground surface, and 

finally again returning to the form of atmospheric water vapor, by means of evaporation and transpiration. 

Also called Water Cycle. 

Hydrologic recovery: A return to natural conditions of water collection, storage, and discharge. 

Hydrology: The science dealing with the study of water on the land, in the soil and underlying rocks, and 

in the atmosphere. 

Individual tree selection: See regeneration method. 

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Interception: The process where precipitation is caught and held by foliage and lost by evaporation 

before it reaches the ground. 

Interdisciplinary Team (IDT): A group of individuals with different training assembled to solve a 

problem or perform a task. The team is assembled out of recognition that no one scientific discipline is 

sufficiently broad to adequately solve the problem. Through interaction, participants bring different 

points of view and a broader range of expertise to bear on the problem 

Intermediate cut: The removal of trees from a stand sometime between the beginning or formation of 

the stand and the regeneration cut. Types of intermediate cuts include thinning, release, and improvement 

cuttings. 

Intermittent stream: A stream that flows only at certain times of the year when it receives water from 

streams or from some surface source, such as melting snow. 

Inventoried Roadless Area (IRA): An undeveloped area typically exceeding 5,000 acres that meets the 

minimum criteria for Wilderness consideration under the Wilderness Act and that was inventoried during 

the Forest Service’s Roadless Area Review and Evaluation (RARE II) process, subsequent assessments, 

or forest planning. 

Irretrievable commitment: Applies to losses of production or use of renewable natural resources for a 

period of time. For example, timber production from an area is irretrievably lost during the time an area 

is allocated to a no-harvest prescription. If the allocation is changed to allow timber harvest, timber 

production can be resumed. The production lost is irretrievable, but the action is not irreversible. 

Irreversible commitments: Decisions causing changes which cannot be reversed. For example, if a 

roadless area is allocated to allow timber harvest and timber is actually harvested, that area generally 

cannot, at a later date, be allocated to Wilderness. Once harvested, the ability of that area to meet 

Wilderness criteria has been irreversibly lost. Often applies to nonrenewable resources such as minerals 

and cultural resources. 

Issue: A point, matter, or section of public discussion or interest to be addressed or decided. 

Karst: A type of topography that develops in areas underlain by soluble rocks, primarily limestone. 

Dissolution of the subsurface strata results in areas of well-developed surface drainage that are sinkholes, 

collapsed channels, or caves. 

Land and Resource Management Plan: Also called the Forest Plan or just the Plan, this document 

guides the Management of a particular National Forest and establishes management standards and 

guidelines for all lands of that National Forest. 

Land Use Designation (LUD): A defined area of land specific to which management direction is 

applied. 

Landing: A cleared area to which logs or trees are transported for loading onto trucks for transport to a 

mill or log transfer facility. Barges are sometimes used for landings in Southeast Alaska. 

Landscape: A large land area composed of interacting ecosystems that are repeated due to factors such as 

geology, soils, climate, and human impacts. Landscapes are often used for coarse grain analysis. 

Large woody debris (LWD): Any large piece of relatively stable woody material having a diameter of at 

least 4 inches and a length greater than 3 feet that intrudes into the stream channel. 

Litter (forest litter): The freshly fallen or only slightly decomposed plant material on the forest floor. 

This layer includes foliage, bark fragments, twigs, flowers, and fruit. 

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Log transfer facility (LTF): Formerly referred to as terminal transfer facilities, log transfer facilities 

include the site and structures used for moving logs and timber products from land-based transportation 

forms to water-based transportation forms (or vice versa). 

MBF: Thousand board feet (see board feet) 

Management action: Any activity undertaken as part of the administration of the National Forest. 

Management direction: A statement of multiple-use and other goals and objectives, the associated land 

use prescriptions, and standards and guidelines for attaining the desired condition of the Forest Plan. 

Management indicator species (MIS): Plant or animal species, communities, or special habitats selected 

for emphasis in planning, and which are monitored during forest plan implementation to assess the effects 

of management activities on their populations and the populations of other species with similar habitat 

needs which they may represent. 

Marine Access Facility (MAF): An area used by humans to transfer items from land to saltwater or vice 

versa, that contains a structure such as a mooring buoy, dock, LTF, boat ramp, or a combination of these. 

Mass movement or mass wasting: The down-slope movement of large masses of earth material by the 

force of gravity. Also called a landslide. 

Mass movement index (MMI): Rating used to group soil map units that have similar properties with 

respect to the stability of natural slopes. 

Matrix: The least fragmented, most continuous pattern element of a landscape; the vegetation type that is 

most continuous over a landscape. 

Mature timber: Trees that have attained full development, especially height, and are in full seed 

production. 

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU): An agreement between the Forest Service and others 

agencies resulting from consultation between agencies that states specific measures the agencies will 

follow to accomplish a large or complex project. A memorandum of understanding is not a fund 

obligating document. 

Microclimate: The climate of a small site. It may differ from the climate at large of the area due to 

aspect, tree cover (or the absence of tree cover), or exposure to winds. 

Middleground: The visible terrain beyond the foreground where individual trees are still visible but do 

not stand out distinctly from the landscape; area located from 1/4 mile to 3-5 miles from the viewer. (See 

“Foreground” and “Background.”) 

Mineral soil: Soil that consists mainly of inorganic material, such as weathered rock, rather than organic 

matter. 

Mitigation: Actions taken to avoid, minimize, or rectify the impact of land management activities. 

Model: An idealized representation of reality developed to describe, analyze, or understand it; a 

mathematical representation of the relationships under study (e.g., FORPLAN, wildlife habitat capability 

models). 

Monitoring and evaluation: The periodic evaluation of forest management activities to determine how 

well objectives were met and how management practices should be adjusted. See “adaptive 

management.” 

Mortality: Trees dying from natural causes, usually by size class in relation to sequential inventories or 

subsequent to incidents such as storms or insect and disease epidemics. The term mortality can also refer 

to the rate of death of a species in a given population or community. 

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Mosaic: Areas with a variety of plant communities over a landscape, such as areas with trees and areas 

without trees occurring over a landscape. 

Motor Vehicle Use Map: A map that reflects designated roads, trails, and areas on an administrative unit 

or a Ranger District of the National Forest System. 

Multiple-use management: The management of all the various renewable surface resources of National 

Forest lands for a variety of purposes such as recreation, range, timber, wildlife and fish habitat, and 

watershed. 

Muskeg: Muskeg is a wetland type (also called “peatland”) in Southeast Alaska that has developed over 

thousands of years in depressions, or flat areas on gentle to steep slopes. These bogs have poorly drained; 

acidic, organic soils materials that support vegetation that can be either sphagnum moss or herbaceous 

plants. These vegetation types may have a lesser abundance of shrubs and stunted trees. 

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA): Congress passed NEPA in 1969 to encourage productive 

and enjoyable harmony between people and their environment. One of the major tenets of NEPA is its 

emphasis on public disclosure of possible environmental effects of any major action on public lands. 

Section 102 of NEPA requires a statement of possible environmental effects to be released to the public 

and other agencies for review and comment. 

National Forest Management Act (NFMA): A law passed in 1976 as an amendment to the Forest and 

Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act requiring the preparation of Forest Plans. 

National Forest System Road: A forest road other than a road which has been authorized by a legally 

documented right-of-way held by a State, county, or other local public road authority. 

National Forest System Trail: A forest trail other than a trail that has been authorized by a legally 

documented right-of-way held by a state, county or other local public road authority. 

National Register of Historic Places: A register of cultural resources of national, state, or local 

significance, maintained by the Department of the Interior. 

National Wild and Scenic River System: Rivers with outstanding scenic, recreational, geological, fish 

and wildlife, historic, cultural, or other similar values, designated by Congress under the Wild and Scenic 

Rivers Act for preservation of their free-flowing condition. May be classified and administered under one 

or more of the following categories: Wild, Scenic, and Recreational. 

Natural resource: A feature of the natural environment that is of value in serving human needs. 

Net sawlog volume: Trees suitable in size and quality for producing logs that can be processed into 

lumber. In Southeast Alaska, depending on the market, the volume may be processed as pulp or lumber. 

No action alternative: The most likely condition expected to exist in the future if current proposed action 

or alternatives were not selected for the Logjam Timber sale. 

Non-game: Wildlife species that are not hunted for sport, or subsistence. 

Notice of Intent (NOI): A notice in the federal register of intent to prepare an environmental impact 

statement on a proposed action. 

Off-highway vehicle: Any vehicle which is restricted by law from operating on public roads for general 

motor vehicle traffic; includes: motorbikes, mini-bikes, trail bikes, snowmobiles, dune buggies, all-terrain 

vehicles, and four-wheel drive, high clearance vehicles (FSM 2355.01). 

Old growth: Old forests often containing several canopy layers, variety in tree sizes and species, 

decadent old trees, and standing and dead woody material. 

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Old-growth reserve (OGR): A contiguous unit of old-growth habitat to be managed to maintain the 

integrity of the old growth forest ecosystem. 

Open road density: The length of forest development roads open for public access and use per unit area 

of land; usually expressed as miles of open road per square mile of land. 

Organic soil: Soils that contain a high percentage (greater than 15 percent) of organic matter throughout 

the soil depth. 

Overstory: The upper canopy layer; the plants below comprise the understory. 

Parent material: The unconsolidated, and more or less chemically weathered, mineral or organic matter 

from which soils develop. 

Partial cut: Any cutting in which only part of the stand is harvested. This may include thinning, 

selection, shelterwood, or an overstory removal. 

Partial retention: A visual quality objective which, in general, means man’s activities may be evident 

but must rain subordinate to the characteristic landscape. 

Patch: An area of homogeneous vegetation, in structure and composition. 

Personal use: The use of a forest product, such as firewood, for home use and not for commercial use. 

Planning area: The area of National Forest System controlled by a decision document. 

Plant communities: An assemblage of plants that, in general, occur together on similar site conditions. 

Population viability: Probability that a population will persist for a specified period of time across its 

range. In reference to the Alaska Coastal Management Program, consistent with enforceable policies of 

approved management programs unless compliance is prohibited based upon the requirements of existing 

law applicable to the Federal agency’s operations. 

Precommercial thinning: Removing some of the trees from a stand that is too small to be sold for 

lumber or house logs, so the raining trees will grow faster. 

Predator: An animal that lives by preying on other animals. Predators are at or near the tops of food 

chains. 

Prescribed fire: Fire set intentionally in wildland fuels under prescribed conditions and circumstances. 

Prescribed fire can rejuvenate forage for livestock and wildlife or prepare sites for natural regeneration of 

trees. 

Prescription: A planned series of treatments designed to change current stand structure to one that meets 

management goals taking in consideration ecological, economic and societal constraints. 

Process group: A combination of similar stream channel types based on major differences in landform, 

gradient, and channel shapes. 

Productive: The ability of an area to provide goods and services and to sustain ecological values. 

Productive old growth (POG): Old-growth stands capable of producing 20 cubic feet per acre per year 

with 8,000 or more board feet per acre. 

Public participation: Meetings, conferences, seminars, workshops, tours, written comments, responses 

to survey questionnaires, and similar activities designed and held to obtain comments from the public 

about Forest Service planning. 

Public land: Land for which title and control rests with a government: Federal, state, regional, county, or 

municipal. 

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Qualitative: Relating to or involving comparisons based on individual qualities. 

Ranger district: The administrative sub-unit of a National Forest that is supervised by a District Ranger 

who reports directly to the Forest Supervisor. 

Raptor: A bird of prey, such as an eagle or hawk. 

RARE II: Roadless Area Review and Evaluation. The national inventory of roadless and undeveloped 

areas, within the National Forests and Grasslands. 

Recharge: The addition of water to ground water by natural or artificial processes. 

Record of Decision (ROD): A public document separate from be associated with and environmental 

impact statement that identifies all alternatives, provides the agency’s final decision, the rationale behind 

the decision, and the agency’s commitments to monitoring and mitigating. 

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS): A system for planning and managing recreation resources 

that categorizes recreation opportunities into seven classes; each class is defined in terms of the degree to 

which it satisfies certain recreation experience needs based on the extent to which the natural environment 

has been modified, the type of facilities provided, the degree of outdoor skills needed to enjoy the area 

and the relative density of recreation use. 

The seven classes are: 

Primitive: An unmodified environment generally greater than 5,000 acres in size and located generally 

at least 3 miles from all roads and other motorized travel routes. A very low interaction between users 

(generally less than 3 group encounters per day) results in a very high probability of experiencing 

solitude, freedom, closeness to nature, tranquility, self-reliance, challenge, and risk. Evidence of other 

users is low. Restrictions and controls are not evident after entering the land unit. Motorized use is 

rare. 

Semi-Primitive Non-motorized: A natural or natural-appearing environment generally greater than 

2,500 acres in size and generally located at least 1/2 mile (greater or less depending on terrain and 

vegetation, but no less than 1/4 mile) but not further than 3 miles from all roads and other motorized 

travel routes. Concentration of users is low (generally less than 10 group encounters per day), but 

there is often evidence of other users. There is a high probability of experiencing solitude, freedom, 

closeness of nature, tranquility, self-reliance, challenge, and risk. There is a minimum of subtle on-site 

controls. No roads are present in the area. 

Semi-Primitive Motorized: A natural or natural-appearing environment generally greater than 2,500 

acres in size and generally located within 1/2 mile of primitive roads and other motorized travel routes 

used by motor vehicles; but not closer than 1/2 mile (greater or less depending on terrain and 

vegetation, but no less than 1/4 mile) from better-than primitive roads and other motored travel routes. 

Concentration of users is low (generally less than 10 group encounters per day), but here is often 

evidence of other users. There is a moderate probability of experiencing solitude, closeness to nature, 

and tranquility along with a high degree of self-reliance, challenge, and risk in using motorized 

equipment. Local roads may be present, or along saltwater shorelines there may be extensive boat 

traffic. 

Roaded Natural: Resource modification and utilization are evident, in a predominantly naturallyappearing environment generally occurring within 1/2 mile (greater or less depending on terrain and 

vegetation, but no less than 1/4 mile) from better-than-primitive roads and other motorized travel 

routes. Interactions between users may be moderate to high (generally less than 20 group encounters 

per day), with evidence of other users prevalent. There is an opportunity to affiliate with other users in 

developed sites but with some chance for privacy. Self-reliance on outdoor skills is only of moderate 

importance with little opportunity for challenge and risk. Motorized use is allowed. 

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Roaded Modified: Vegetative and landform alterations typically dominate the landscape. There is 

little onsite control of users except for gated roads. There is moderate evidence of other users on roads 

(generally less than 20 group encounters per day), and little evidence of others or interactions at 

campsites. There is opportunity to get away from others but with easy access. Some self-reliance is 

required in building campsites and use of motorized equipment. A feeling of independence and 

freedom exists with little challenge and risk. Recreation users will likely encounter timber 

management activities. 

Rural: The natural environment is substantially modified by land use activities. Opportunity to 

observe and affiliate with other users is important as is convenience of facilities. There is little 

opportunity for challenge and risk and self-reliance on outdoor skills is of little importance. 

Recreation facilities designed for group use are compatible. Users may have more that 20 group 

encounters per day. 

Urban: Urbanized environment with dominant structures, traffic lights and paved streets. This class 

may have natural appearing backdrop. Recreation places maybe city parks and large resorts. 

Opportunity to observe and affiliate with other users is very important as is convenience of facilities 

and recreation opportunities. Interaction between large numbers of users is high. Outdoor skills, risk, 

and challenge are unimportant except for competitive sports. Intensive on-site controls are numerous. 

Recreation places: Identified geographical areas having one or more physical characteristics that are 

particularly attractive to people in recreation activities. They may be beaches, streamside areas, roadside 

areas, trail corridors, hunting areas, or the immediate area surrounding a lake, cabin site, or campground. 

Recreation site: A specific site and/or facility occurring within a Recreation Place. Examples of 

recreation sites include: recreation cabins, trailheads, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing blinds. 

Red pipes: Passage barriers to various life stages of fish, generally culverts place improperly. 

Reforestation: The reestablishment of forest cover either naturally or artificially (by direct seeding or 

planting). 

Regeneration: The renewal of a tree crop by either natural or artificial means. The term is also used to 

refer to the young crop itself. 

Regional Forester: The official of the USDA Forest Service responsible for administering an entire 

region of the Forest Service. 

Reserve trees: Live or dead trees that are retained for various resource objectives such as wildlife, 

structural diversity, etc. 

Resident fish: Fish that are not migratory and complete their life cycles in fresh water. 

Responsible official: The Forest Service employee who has been delegated authority to make a specific 

decision. 

Restoration (of ecosystems): Actions taken to modify an ecosystem to achieve a desired, healthy, and 

functioning condition. 

Retention: The amount of commercial forest land removed from the timber base to protect other 

resources. 

Riparian area: The area including a stream channel, lake or estuary bed, the water itself, and the plants 

that grow in the water and on the land next to the water. 

Riparian Management area (RMA): Land areas delineated in the Forest Plan to provide for the 

Management of riparian resources. Specific standards and guidelines, by stream process group, are 

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associated with riparian management areas. Riparian Management areas may be modified by watershed 

analysis 

Road: A motor vehicle route over 50 inches wide, unless identified and managed as a trial (36 CFR 

212.1). 

Road decommissioning: Activities that result in the stabilization and restoration of unneeded roads to a 

more natural state. The term generally refers to temporary roads constructed for timber harvests that have 

has stream courses restored, culverts removed, waterbars added where needed, and cut and fill slopes 

revegetated (36 CFR 212.5). 

Road construction or reconstruction: Supervising, inspecting, actual building, and incurrence of all 

costs incidental to the construction or reconstruction of a road. 

Road density: The number of road miles per square mile of land area (miles per square mile) 

Roadless area: An area of undeveloped public land where there are no improved roads maintained for 

travel by means of motorized vehicles intended for highway use. 

Road maintenance: The ongoing upkeep of a road, necessary to retain or restore the road to the 

approved road management objective (FSM 7712.3). 

Road maintenance level: The level of service maintained for a specific road, consistent with road 

management objectives and maintenance criteria (FSH 7709.58, section 12.3) 

Maintenance Level 1: Assigned to intermittent service roads during the time they are closed to vehicle 

traffic. The closure period is one year or longer. Basic custodial maintenance is performed. 

Maintenance Level 2: Assigned to roads open for use by high clearance vehicles. 

Maintenance Level 3: Assigned to roads maintained for passenger car use but not for comfort and 

convenience. 

Maintenance Level 4: Assigned to roads that provide moderate comfort and convenience at moderate 

speeds. Maintenance Level 5 – Assigned to roads that provide a high degree of comfort and 

convenience. Normally roads are double-laned and paved or aggregate surfaced with dust abetment. 

Road management objective (RMO): Defines the intended purpose of an individual road based on 

management area direction and access management directives. Road management objectives contain 

design criteria, operation criteria and maintenance criteria. 

Road storage: Storage is a term used only for NFS roads. The physical on-the-ground changes are 

similar to a decommissioned road; however, roads in storage are considered part of the long-term forest 

road transportation system and may be opened to vehicular traffic in the future. The process/action of 

storage involves closing a road to vehicle traffic and placing it in a condition that requires minimum 

maintenance to protect the environment and preserve the facility for future use. Drainage structures in 

live drains are completely removed to restore natural patterns. Ditch relief culverts may be left in place 

and supplemented with deep water bars in order to minimize the cost of reusing the road in the future. 

ROD: See record of decision 

ROS: See recreation opportunity spectrum. 

Rotation: The number of years required to establish and grow timber crops to a specified condition of 

maturity. 

Sawtimber (sawlog): Trees that are 9 inches in diameter at breast height or larger that can be made into 

lumber. 

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Scale: In ecosystem management, it refers to the degree of resolution at which ecosystems are observed 

and measured. 

Scoping: The ongoing process to determine public opinion, the agency receives comments and 

suggestions, and determine issues during the environmental analysis process. It may involve public 

meetings, telephone conversations, or letters. 

Sedge: A family of plants with solid stems found in marshy areas. 

Seen landscape: Those areas visible from the most frequently used travel ways (boat route, recreation 

road, or trail), or use area (recreation cabin or anchorage). 

Sensitive species: Plant or animal species which are susceptible to habitat changes or impacts from 

activities. The official designation is made by the USDA Forest Service at the Regional level and is not 

part of the designation of Threatened or Endangered Species made by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. 

Seral: The stage of succession of a plant or animal community that is transitional. If left alone, the seral 

stage will give way to another plant or animal community that represents a further stage of succession. 

Shell midden: A term referring to shell and bone that have been discarded after harvest and processing 

for subsistence use. 

Silviculture: The art and science of controlling the establishment, growth, composition, health, and 

quality of forests to meet the diverse needs and values of landowners and society on a sustainable basis. 

Silvicultural system: A planned series of treatments whereby forests are tended, harvested, and replaced 

resulting in a forest of distinctive form. Systems are classified according to the method of carrying out 

the process. 

Size class: One of the three intervals of tree stem diameters used to classify timber in the Forest Plan data 

base. The size classes are: Seedling/Sapling (less than 5 inches in diameter); Pole Timber (5 to 9 inches 

in diameter); Sawtimber (greater than 9 inches in diameter) 

Slash: The residue left on the ground after timber cutting or left after a storm, fire, or other event. Slash 

includes unused logs, uprooted stumps, branches, bark, etc. 

Snag: A standing dead tree. Snags are important as habitat for a variety of wildlife species and their prey. 

Soil compaction: The reduction of soil volume. For instance, the weight of heavy equipment on soils can 

compact the soil and thereby change it in some ways, such as in its ability to absorb water. 

Soil productivity: The capability of a soil, in its normal environment, to produce a specific plant or 

sequence of plants under a specific sequence of management. 

Sortyard: A location used to sort grades, types, and size of logs. 

Special use permit: A permit issued to an individual or group by the USDA Forest Service for use of 

National Forest System land for a special purpose. Examples might be a Boy Scout Jamboree or a 

mountain bike race. 

Stand: A group of trees that occupies a specific area and is similar in species, age, and condition. 

Standards and guidelines: Standard: A course of action or level of attainment required by the forest plan 

to promote achievement of goals and objectives. 

State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO): The official appointed or designated pursuant to Section 10 

1(b) (1) of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended, to administer the State Historic 

Preservation Program. 

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Stream classes: A means to categorize stream channels based on their fish production values. There are 

four stream classes on the Tongass National Forest. They are: 

Class I: Streams and lakes with anadromous or adfluvial fish habitat; or high-quality resident fish waters 

listed in Appendix 68.1, Region 10 Aquatic Habitat Management Handbook (FSH 2609.24), June 1986; 

or habitat above fish migration barriers known to be reasonable enhancement opportunities for 

anadromous fish. 

Class II: Streams and lakes with resident fish populations and generally steep (6-15 percent) gradient 

(can also include streams from 0-5 percent gradient) where no anadromous fish occur, and otherwise not 

meeting Class I criteria. These populations have limited fisheries values and generally occur upstream of 

migration barriers or have other habitat features that preclude anadromous fish use. 

Class III: Perennial and intermittent streams with no fish populations but which have sufficient flow or 

transport sufficient sediment and debris to have an immediate influence on downstream water quality or 

fish habitat capability. These streams generally have bank-full widths greater than 5 feet and are highly 

incised into the surrounding hill slope. 

Class IV: Intermittent, ephemeral, and small perennial channels with insufficient flow or sediment 

transport capabilities to have an immediate influence on downstream water quality or fish habitat 

capability. These streams generally are shallowly incised into the surrounding hill slope. 

Non-streams: Rills and other watercourses, generally intermittent and less that 1 foot in bankfull width, 

little or no incision into the surrounding hill slope, and with little or no evidence of scour. 

Stumpage: The value of the timber as it stands uncut in terms of an amount per unit area; synonym 

stumpage value. 

Subsistence: Section 803 of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act defines subsistence use 

as “the customary and traditional uses by rural Alaska residents of wild renewable resources for direct, 

personal or family consumption as food, shelter, fuel, clothing, tools, or transportation; for the making 

and selling of handicraft articles out of non-edible byproducts of fish and wildlife resources taken for 

personal or family consumption; for barter, or sharing for personal or family consumption; and for 

customary trade.” 

Subspecies: An aggregate of similar populations of a species generally inhabiting a geographic 

subdivision of the range of the species and differing taxonomically (e.g. different size or color) from 

other populations of the species. 

Subwatershed: A subdivision of a watershed. A subwatershed is the 6th-level, 12-digit unit and smallest 

of the hydrologic unit hierarchy. Subwatersheds generally range in size from 10,000 to 40,000 acres.

Succession: The natural replacement, in time, of one plant community with another. Conditions of the 

prior plant community (or successional stage) create conditions that are favorable for the establishment of 

the next stage. 

Successional stage: A stage of development of a plant community as it moves from bare ground to 

climax. The grass-forb stage of succession precedes the woody shrub stage. 

Suitable forest land: Forest land for which technology is available that will ensure timber production 

without irreversible resource damage to soils, productivity, or watershed conditions, and for which there 

is reasonable assurance that such lands can be adequately restocked, and for which there is management 

direction that indicated that timber production is an appropriate use of that area. 

Surface resources: Renewable resources that are on the surface of the earth, such as timber and forage, 

in contrast to ground water and minerals which are located beneath the surface. 

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Sustainable: The yield of a natural resource that can be produced continually at a given intensity of 

management is said to be sustainable. 

Sustained yield: The amount of renewable resources that can be produced continuously at a given 

intensity of management. 

Temporary road or trail: A road or trail necessary for emergency operations or authorized by contract, 

permit, lease, or other written authorization that is not included in a forest transportation atlas (36 CFR 

212.1) 

Terrestrial ecosystems: Plant communities that are not dependent on a perpetual source of water to 

grow. 

Thinning: The practice of removing some of the trees in a stand, in a manner that the remaining trees will 

grow faster. The remaining trees grow faster because of reduced competition for nutrients, water, and 

sunlight. Thinning may also be done to change the characteristics of a stand for wildlife or other 

purposes. Thinning may be done at two different stages: 

Precommercial thinning – Removing trees that are too small to make a merchantable product to 

improve tree spacing and promote more rapid growth. 

Commercial thinning – Removing trees that have reached sufficient size to be manufactured into a 

product to improve tree spacing and promote more rapid growth. 

Threatened species: A listed plant or animal species likely to become an endangered species within the 

foreseeable future, throughout all or a significant portion of its range. Threatened species are identified 

and defined in accordance with the 1973 Endangered Species Act and published in the Federal Register. 

Threshold: The point or level of activity beyond which an undesirable set of responses begins to take 

place within a given resource system. 

Timber classification: Forested land is classified under each of the land management alternatives 

according to how it relates to the management of the timber resource. The following are definitions of 

timber classifications used for this purpose. 

Nonforest: Land that has never supported forests and land formerly forested where use for timber 

production is precluded by development or other uses. 

Forest: Land at least 10 percent stocked (based on crown cover) by forest trees of any size, or formerly 

having had such tree cover and not currently developed for nonforest use. 

Suitable: Land to be managed for timber production on a regulated basis. 

Unsuitable: Forest land withdrawn from timber utilization by statute or administrative regulation (for 

example, wilderness), or identified as inappropriate for timber production in the Forest planning process. 

Thermoregulation: Ability of an organism to keep its body temperature within certain boundaries, even 

when the surrounding temperature is very different.

Timber stand improvement (TSI): All non-commercial intermediate cuttings and other treatments to 

improve composition, condition, and volume growth of a timber stand. 

Tongass Timber Reform Act (TTRA): This Act (1990) requires annual appropriations for timber 

management on the Tongass National Forest, with a provision providing for the multiple use and 

sustained yield of all renewable resources. 

Tractor logging: A logging method that uses tractors to carry or drag logs from the stump to a collection 

point. 

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Trail: A route 50 inches or less in width or a route over 50 inches wide that is identified and managed as 

a trail. 

Turbidity: An expression of the optical property that causes light to be scattered and absorbed rather than 

transmitted in straight lines through a water sample; turbidity in water is caused by the presence of 

suspended matter such as clay, silt, finely divided organic and inorganic matter, plankton, and other 

microscopic organisms. 

Two-aged management: A regeneration method in which a portion of the trees in a harvest unit are cut 

in one entry, and the rest are left as residual trees, either singly or in patches resulting in the creation of 

two seperate age classes within the stand. The residual trees remain unharvested to provide structural 

diversity or other attributes to the developing new stand. 

Unauthorized road or trail: A road or trail that is not a forest road or trail; or a temporary road or trail; 

and is not included in a forest transportation atlas. 

Understory: The trees and woody shrubs growing beneath the overstory in a stand of trees. 

Unsuitable lands: Forest land that is not managed for timber production. Reasons may be matters of 

policy, ecology, technology, silviculture, or economics 

Utility volume: Logs that do not meet minimum requirements for sawtimber but are suitable for the 

production of usable chips. 

Value comparison unit (VCU): First developed for the 1979 Tongass Land Management Plan as distinct 

geographic areas that generally encompass a drainage basin containing one or more large stream systems. 

Boundaries usually follow easily recognizable watershed divides. There are 926 units established to 

provide a common set of areas for which resource inventories could be conducted and resource value 

interpretations made. 

Variety class: A way to classify landscapes according to their visual features. This system is based on 

the premise that landscapes with the greatest variety or diversity have the greatest potential for scenic 

value. 

Vegetation management: Activities designed primarily to promote the health of forest vegetation for 

multiple-use purposes. 

Viable population: The numbers of individuals of a species sufficient to ensure the long-term existence 

of the species in natural, self-sustaining populations that are adequately distributed throughout their range. 

Viewshed: An expansive landscape or panoramic vista seen from a road, marine waterway, or specific 

viewpoint. 

Visual Absorption Capacity (VAC): The capability of the landscape to visually absorb management 

activities. Landscapes are rated with high, moderate or low abilities to absorb management activities. 

These ratings reflect the degree of landscape variety in an area, viewing distance and topographic 

characteristics. As an example, steep, evenly sloped landscapes viewed in the foreground to middle 

ground are typically given a low VAC rating. 

Visual resource: A part of the landscape important for its scenic quality. It may include a composite of 

terrain, geologic features, or vegetation. 

Volume strata: Divisions of old-growth timber volume derived from the interpreted timber type data 

layer (TIMTYP) and the common land unit data layer (CLU). Three volume strata (low, medium, and 

high) are recognized in the Forest Plan. 

Water table: The upper surface of ground water or that level below which the soil is saturated with 

water. 

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Water yield: The runoff from a watershed, including groundwater outflow. 

Watershed: The entire region drained by a waterway, or into a lake or reservoir. More specifically, a 

watershed is an area of land above a given point on a stream that contributes water to the stream flow at 

that point. 

Wetlands: Those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater with a frequency 

and duration sufficient to support, and under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation 

typically adapted to life in saturated soil conditions. 

Wild and Scenic River: Rivers or sections of rivers designated by congressional actions under the 1968 

Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Wild and scenic rivers may be classified and administered under one or 

more of the following categories: 

Wild river areas: Rivers or sections of rivers that are free of impoundments and generally 

inaccessible except by trail, with watersheds or shorelines essentially primitive and waters unpolluted. 

These represent vestiges of primitive America. 

Scenic river areas: Rivers or sections of rivers that are free of impoundments, with watersheds still 

largely primitive and shorelines largely undeveloped, but accessible in places by roads. 

Recreational river areas: Rivers or sections of rivers that are readily accessible by road or railroad, 

that may have some development along their shorelines, and that may have undergone some 

impoundment or diversion in the past. 

Wilderness: Areas designated by congressional action under the 1964 Wilderness Act or subsequent 

Acts. Wilderness is defined as undeveloped Federal land retaining its primeval character and influence 

without permanent improvements or human habitation. Wilderness areas are protected and managed to 

preserve their natural conditions, which generally appear to have been affected primarily by the forces of 

nature, with the imprint of human activity substantially unnoticeable; have outstanding opportunities for 

solitude or for a primitive and confined type of recreation; include at least 5,000 acres or are of sufficient 

size to make practical their preservation, enjoyment, and use in an unimpaired condition; and may contain 

features of scientific, educational, scenic, or historic value as well as ecologic and geologic interest. On 

the Tongass National Forest, Wilderness has been designated by ANILCA and TTRA. 

Wildlife Analysis Area (WAA): A division of land used by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for 

wildlife analysis. 

Windfirm: Trees not likely to be blown over by the wind. These are usually trees that have been exposed 

to the wind throughout their life and have developed a strong root system or trees that are protected from 

the wind by terrain features or other trees. 

Windthrow: The act of trees being uprooted by the wind. In Southeast Alaska, Sitka spruce and hemlock 

trees are shallow rooted and susceptible to windthrow. There are generally three types of windthrow: 

• Endemic, where individual trees are blown over; 

• Catastrophic, where a major windstorm can destroy hundreds of acres; and 

• Management related, where the clearing of trees in an area make the adjacent standing trees 

vulnerable to windthrow. 

Winter Range: An area, usually at lower elevation, used by big game during the winter months; usually 

smaller and better defined than summer ranges. 

Yarding: Moving cut trees from where they fell to a centralized place (landing) for hauling away from 

the stand. 

Young growth: Forest growth that has regenerated naturally or has been planted after some drastic 

interference (for example, clearcut harvest, serious fire, or insect attack) with the previous forest growth.