Chapter Eight Glossary 83

 

3. CHAPTER THREE – AFFECTED 

ENVIRONMENT/ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 

3.2. INTRODUCTION 

 This section briefly describes the components and scope of the human environment that may be 

affected by the implementation of the alternatives outlined in Section Two. It then discloses the 

potential effects (direct, indirect, and cumulative) of implementing each alternative. It presents 

the scientific and analytic basis for the comparison of alternatives. 

 Unavoidable adverse impacts, irreversible/irretrievable commitment of resources, and short 

term use versus long term productivity are also briefly discussed. All discussions will be tiered 

to the 1990 Umpqua National Forest Final Environmental Impact Statement and the 1994 Final 

Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement on Management of Habitat for LateSuccessional and Old-Growth Forest Related Species within the Range of the Northern Spotted 

Owl. 

3.2. VEGETATION 

3.2.1. AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

MATURE AND OLD GROWTH FOREST

 The affected environment for mature and old growth forest, referred to as the late successional 

stage in forest development, falls within the Lemolo 5th Level Watershed. Forest stands 

classified as 80-200 years (mature) and 200+ years (old growth) were classified as late 

successional habitat, as defined in the Northwest Forest Plan (NWFP). Old growth forest is 

defined in the NWFP ROD on page F-4 as; “a forest usually at least 180-220 years old with 

moderate to high canopy closure; a multi-layered, multi-species canopy dominated by large 

over story trees; high incidence of large trees, some with broken tops and other indications of 

old and decaying wood (decadence); s large snags; and heavy accumulations of wood, 

including large logs on the ground” (Picture 1). Forests 200 years or older were defined as old 

growth in this analysis. Proposed harvest units 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 14, 16-24, 27, 30, 32, 33, 36, 37, 40, 

41, 68, and helicopter landing 77 meet this definition and have been identified by some publics 

to be of significant issue. 

numerou

 Approximately 91 percent (69,921 acres) of the Lemolo 5th Level Watershed is currently made 

up of late successional forest; 31 percent (23,716 acres) old growth forest, 60 percent (46,205 

acres) mature forest. Sixty-seven percent (51,752 acres) of the Lemolo Lake Watershed is 

currently made up of late-successional forest within administratively and congressionally 

withdrawn lands; 23 percent (18,081 acres) old growth forest, 44 percent (33,671 acres) mature 

forest. The full detailed analysis is contained in Appendix I – Silviculture, and is entitled 

“Analysis of Late Successional Forest within the Lemolo Lake Fifth Field Watershed.” 
84 Glossary Chapter Eight

Picture 1 – Typical old growth forest within the Lemolo analysis area 

 

PINE HEALTH AND DENSITY MANAGEMENT

The affected environment for pine health falls within all proposed harvest units and prescribed 

under burn units that have a ponderosa, sugar, western white, or lodge pole pine component. 

Information from a fire history study completed for the Diamond Lake/Lemolo Watershed 

Analysis showed that a large portion of the watershed burned in at least three major fire events 

between 1880 and 1910, with an average fire return interval of 72-years. The absence of fire due 

to fire suppression efforts since 1910, white pine blister rust, and the mountain pine beetle have 

been the main causes of the decline in health and vigor of mature and old growth ponderosa 

pine, sugar pine, western white pine, and lodge pole pine within the Lemolo analysis area. Lack 

of fire has led to overstocked stand conditions, under story development of shade tolerant 

species, and mature lodge pole pine stands greater than 80-years of age that are highly

susceptible to a mountain pine beetle outbreak. 

Pages 198-199 of the Diamond Lake/Lemolo Watershed Analysis made recommendations to 

improve pine health within the watershed. It stated “If scattered, large, older ponderosa pines 

and western white pines are to be maintained, competing vegetation of all types should be 

removed to a distance of approximately ten to 20 feet past the drip line of individual trees” 

( ). Units 2, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 18-27, 29, 30, 32, 33, 36, 37, 40, 41, 68, and 69-71 are 

stands where competition around mature and old growth ponderosa, sugar, and western white is 

affecting pine health and vigor. 

Picture 2

 
Chapter Eight Glossary 85

Picture 2 – Old growth ponderosa pine – competition from under story fir species 

 

The watershed analysis also states that thinning should be conducted in mature mixed conifer 

stands to reduce basal areas to below 140 square feet per acre for western white pine and below 

120 square feet per acre for ponderosa pine. Units 1, 4, 6, 10, 11, 13, 15, 25, 26, 28, 29, 32, 35, 

38, 39 and 67 are stands where basal areas exceed this recommendation and mortality of pine 

from overstocked conditions is occurring. 

The watershed analysis recommended that treatments remove large trees and regenerate lodge 

pole pine to capture mortality, reduce fire risk, and create a mosaic of age classes at the 

landscape scale to reduce the risk of a mountain pine beetle epidemic. It defined high risk lodge 

pole pine stands as greater than 80 years old, greater than 8 inches in diameter, and basal areas 

greater than 80 square feet per acre ( ). Units 42-56, 60, and 61 meet this high risk 

definition and are highly susceptible to a mountain pine beetle outbreak. The watershed analysis 

also recommends that young lodge pole pine stands be commercially thinned to increase vigor 

in order to delay bark beetle-caused mortality. Units 57-59 and 62-64 are heavily overstocked 

and in need of thinning. 

Picture 3
86 Glossary Chapter Eight

Picture 3 – Dense Lodgepole pine stand at high risk to Mountain Pine beetle attack 

3.2.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

MATURE AND OLD GROWTH FOREST

The guidance outlined in a letter from the Regional Office, dated February 3, 1998, was used to 

analyze the amount of late successional forest within the Lemolo Lake Fifth Field Watershed, 

which is synonymous with the Lemolo Watershed Projects Analysis area. The analysis must be 

conducted in order to meet Standard and Guideline C-44/45 outlined in the 1994 Record of 

Decision for Amendments to Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management Planning 

Documents within the Range of the Northern Spotted Owl (NWFP). The standard states that if 

there is 15% or less late successional habitat within a Fifth Field Watershed, any remaining late 

successional habitat will be retained. 

Vegetative age class information from the ump_femat_age GIS coverage and site specific stand 

age from increment bores, were used for the analysis. The full detailed analysis is contained in 

Appendix I – Silviculture, and is entitled “Analysis of Late Successional Forest within the 

Lemolo Lake Fifth Field Watershed”. 

This analysis showed that all alternatives met the Level 3 Assessment as outlined in the 

Regional guidance, therefore meeting the Standard and Guideline. The Level 3 Assessment is 

defined as fifth field watersheds where more than 15 percent of the Federal forest is 80 years or 

older and there is no potential for late successional stands to be reduced to 15% within the 

current Forest Service land use planning cycle. Sixty-seven percent (51,752 acres) of the 

Lemolo Lake Watershed is currently made up of late successional forest within administratively

and congressionally withdrawn lands; 23 percent (18,081 acres) old growth forest, 44 percent 
Chapter Eight Glossary 87

(33,671 acres) mature forest. Age class structure within these withdrawn lands will not be 

ld growth forest harvested under each 

alternative serves as an evaluation criteria for the old growth issue. A comparison of these 

n be found in Table 7. 

.2.3 NO ACTION) 

affected by any alternative. 

The effects of the alternatives on age class structure within the Lemolo Lake Fifth Field 

Watershed are discussed below. The number of acres of o

evaluation criteria by alternative ca

3 ALTERNATIVE 1 (

DIRECT EFFECTS

 Age class structure will not change within the Lemolo Lake Watershed. Table 8 depicts the 

breakdown of age c

 1 – Age Cla cture (Alternat ) 

lass structure under this alternative. 

Table ss Stru ive 1

Age Class (years) Acres % of Planning Area 

0 - 30 3208 4.2 

30 - 80 674 0.9 

80 - 200 46205 60.4 

200+ 23716 31.0 

Natural and man-made 2709 3.5 

permanent openings 

percent (69,921 acres) of Lemolo Lake Fifth Field Watershed will remain 

late successional habitat; 31.0 percent (23,716 acres) old growth forest, 60.4 percent (46,205 

Ninety one point four 

acres) mature forest. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Environmental and biological edge effects will not increase because no harvest will take place. 

associated with early successional stages will not benefit from increased edge 

st wil take place. Habitat favorable to flora and fauna dependent on late 

t be reduced. 

Flora and fauna 

because no harve l 

successional stages will no

 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

Portions of two planned timber sales within the analysis area, Gigawatt units 11, 13, 14 and 

arpaw 17, wi vert 20 ac of ol rowth forest to early successional habitat, therefore 

o 69,901 acres (91.4%). 

.2.4 ROPOSED ACTION) 

Be ll con res d g

reducing the total late successional habitat t

3 ALTERNATIVE 2 (P

DIRECT EFFECTS

Alternative 2 will reduce late successional habitat within the watershed by less than 1% by 

converting 605 acres of late successional habitat to early successional habitat and 14 acres of 

late successional habitat to permanent openings (a total of 619 acres). Three hundred acres of 
88 Glossary Chapter Eight

these 619 acres are classified as old growth forest. This will reduce the amount of late 

successional habita ; 30.5% old growth forest, 

60% mature icts th age cl 2. 

 2 – Age Cla ucture (Alternat ) 

t to 69,302 acres (90.5%) within the analysis area

 forest. Table 9 dep e mix of asses under Alternative

Table ss Str ive 2

Age Class (years) Acres % of Planning Area 

0 - 30 3,813 5.0 

30 - 80 674 0.9 

80 - 200 45,886 60.0 

200+ 23,416 30.6 

Natural and man-made 

permanent openings 

2,723 3.5 

Late successional habitat within proposed partial harvest and commercial thinning units will 

remain late successional habitat. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Environmental and biological edge effects will increase around regeneration harvest units 

(shelterwood, seed tree, group harvest prescriptions). Planted and natural early-seral tree species 

will replace climax tree species in the under story. Flora and fauna associated with early 

successional stages will benefit from increased edge. Habitat favorable to flora and fauna 

dependent on late successional stages will be reduced. Minor amounts of existing climax natural 

regeneration will remain after regeneration harvest. A legacy of the large vertical component of 

e form of live culls, seed trees, snags, snag recruitment trees, and 

shelterwood trees will be left in regeneration harvest areas. 

existing vegetation in th

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

 Po pla

Bearpaw 17, will c

rtions of two nned timber sales within the analysis area, Gigawatt units 11, 13, 14 and 

onvert 20 acres of old growth forest to early successional habitat, therefore 

reducing the total late successional habitat to 69,282 acres (90.5%). 

3.2.5 ALTERNATIVE 3 

DIRECT EFFECTS

Alternative 3 will reduce late successional habitat within the watershed by less than 1% by 

converting 226 acres of late successional habitat to early su

late successional habitat to permanent openings (a total of 2

ccessional habitat and 10 acres of 

36 acres). Two acres of these 236 

acres are classified as old growth forest. This will reduce the amount of late successional habitat 

to 69,685 acres (91.1%) within the analysis area; 31.0% old growth forest, 60.1% mature forest. 

Table 10 depicts the mix of age classes under Alternative 3. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 89

Table 3 – Age Clas ucture (Alternat ) s Str ive 3

Age Class (years) Acres % of Planning Area 

0 - 30 3,434 4.5 

30 - 80 674 0.9 

80 - 200 45,971 60.1 

200+ 23,714 31.0 

Natural and man-made 

permanent openings 

2,719 3.5 

Late successional habitat within proposed partial harvest and commercial thinning units will 

remain late successional habitat. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Environmental and biological edge effects will increase around regeneration harvest units 

(shelterwood, seed tree, group harvest prescriptions). Planted and natural early-seral tree species 

will replace climax tree species in the under story. Flora and fauna associated with early 

successional stages will benefit from increased edge. Habitat favorable to flora and fauna 

dependent on late successional stages will be reduced. Minor amounts of existing climax natural 

regeneration will remain after regeneration harvest. A legacy of the large vertical component of 

e form of live culls, seed trees, snags, snag recruitment trees, and 

shelterwood trees will be left in regeneration harvest areas. 

existing vegetation in th

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

 Po pla

Bearpaw 17, will c

rtions of two nned timber sales within the analysis area, Gigawatt units 11, 13, 14 and 

onvert 20 acres of old growth forest to early successional habitat, therefore 

ucing e total te successional habitat to 69,665 acres (91.1% of the planning area). 

.2.6

red th la

3 ALTERNATIVE 4 

DIRECT EFFECTS

Alternative 4 will reduce late successional habitat within the watershed by less than 1% by 

converting 308 acres of late successional habitat to early successional habitat and 13 acres of 

late successional habitat to permanent openings (a total of 321 acres). Three acres of these 321 

acres are classified as old growth forest. This will reduce the amount of late successional habitat 

to 69,600 acres (91.0%) within the analysis area; 31.0% old growth forest, 60% mature forest. 

Table 11 depicts the mix of age classes under Alternative 4. 
90 Glossary Chapter Eight

Table 4 – Age Class Structure (Alternative 4) 

Age Class (years) Acres % of Planning Area 

0 - 30 3,516 4.6 

30 - 80 674 0.9 

80 - 200 45,887 60.0 

200+ 23,713 31.0 

Natural and man-made 

permanent openings 

2,722 3.5 

 Late successional habitat within proposed partial harvest and commercial thinning units will 

remain late successional habitat. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

 Environmental and biological edge effects will increase around regeneration harvest units 

(shelterwood, seed tree, group harvest prescriptions). Planted and natural early-seral tree species 

will replace climax tree species in the under story. Flora and fauna associated with early 

successional stages will benefit from increased edge. Habitat favorable to flora and fauna 

dependent on late successional stages will be reduced. Minor amounts of existing climax natural 

regeneration will remain after regeneration harvest. A legacy of the large vertical component of 

existing vegetation in the form of live culls, seed trees, snags, snag recruitment trees, and 

shelterwood trees will be left in regeneration harvest areas. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

 Portions of two planned timber sales within the analysis area, Gigawatt units 11, 13, 14 and 

Bearpaw 17, will convert 20 acres of old growth forest to early successional habitat, therefore 

reducing the total late successional habitat to 69,580 acres (90.9%). 

3.2.7 ALTERNATIVE 5

DIRECT EFFECTS

 Alternative 5 will reduce late successional habitat within the watershed by less than 1% by 

converting 354 acres of late successional habitat to early successional habitat and 13 acres of 

late successional habitat to permanent openings (a total of 367 acres). One hundred and thirty 

one acres of these 354 acres are classified as old growth forest. This will reduce the amount of 

late successional habitat to 69,554 acres (90.9%) within the analysis area; 30.8% old growth 

forest, 60.1% mature forest. Table 12 depicts the mix of age classes under Alternative 5. 

Table 5 – Age cture Class Stru (Alternative 5) 

Age Class (years) Acreage % of Planning Area 

0 - 30 3562 4.7 

30 - 80 674 0.9 

80 - 200 45969 60.1 

200+ 23585 30.8 

N

permanent openings 

atural and man-made 2722 3.5 
Chapter Eight Glossary 91

Late successional habitat within proposed partial harvest and commercial thinning units will 

remain late successional habitat. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

snags, snag recruitment trees, and 

shelterwood trees will be left in regeneration harvest areas. 

 

Environmental and biological edge effects will increase around regeneration harvest units 

(shelterwood, seed tree, group harvest prescriptions). Planted and natural early-seral tree species 

will replace climax tree species in the under story. Flora and fauna associated with early 

successional stages will benefit from increased edge. Habitat favorable to flora and fauna 

dependent on late successional stages will be reduced. Minor amounts of existing climax natural 

regeneration will remain after regeneration harvest. A legacy of the large vertical component of 

existing vegetation in the form of live culls, seed trees, 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

essional habitat, therefore 

reducing the total late successional habitat to 69,534 acres (90.9%). 

 pages 

ted to vegetative management. 

Portions of two planned timber sales within the analysis area, Gigawatt units 11, 13, 14 and 

Bearpaw 17, will convert 20 acres of old growth forest to early succ

All proposed vegetative manipulation in Alternatives 2, 3, 4 and 5 will be in compliance with 

the 1988 Final Environmental Impact Statement for Managing Competing and Unwanted 

Vegetation to which this document is tiered. The Silvicultural Prescription in Appendix I,

43-44, specifies the analysis of environmental effects rela

PINE HEALTH AND DENSITY MANAGEMENT

The analysis of pine health and density management revolves around the stands prescribed for 

harvest or natural fuels treatment to reduce competition and the risk of a mountain pine beetle 

outbreak, as recommended by the Diamond Lake/Lemolo Watershed Analysis. Existing stand 

densities were determined using Suppose version 1.13 of the Forest Vegetation Simulator, 

Western Cascades Variant version 6.21. Data from formal stand exams from the 1980’s and 

1990’s were used for the analysis. Stand densities and prescriptions for each proposed stand 

d were also generated for each alternative and also serve as evaluation criteria to 

compare alternatives. A comparison of these evaluation criteria by alternative can be found in 

Table 7. 

can be found in the Silvicultural Prescription in Appendix I, pages 6-38. 

The number of acres treated to promote pine health on Bunker Hill and within the entire Lemolo 

5th Level Watershed were generated for each alternative and serve as evaluation criteria to 

compare alternatives. The number of acres commercially thinned to promote stand health and 

vigor through density management on Bunker Hill and within the entire Lemolo 5th Level 

Watershe
92 Glossary Chapter Eight

3.2.8 ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

DIRECT EFFECTS

 Pine health will continue to decline on Bunker Hill (488 acres) and within the Lemolo 

Watershed (1703 acres), within stands targeted for treatment to promote pine health in the 

Silvicultural Prescription (units 1-7, 9-16, 18-30, 32, 33, 35-64, and 67-71). This decline is due 

to overstocked stand conditions, mountain pine beetle, and white pine blister rust. Stand health 

and vigor will also continue to decline on Bunker Hill (423 acres) and within the Lemolo 

Watershed (892 acres) within mature forest stands targeted for commercial thinning in the 

Silvicultural Prescription (units 1, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11, 13, 15, 25, 26, 28, 29, 31, 32, 34, 35, 38, 39, 

and 67), due to overstocked conditions. These declines will lead to increased mortality in 

mature and old growth pine, the likelihood of a mountain pine beetle outbreak within mature 

lodge pole pine stands, and increased susceptibility to insects and disease within stands not 

undergoing silvicultural treatment. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

 Fuels and fire hazard will increase overtime within stands targeted for treatment on Bunker Hill 

and within the Lemolo Watershed, caused by competition mortality and increased mortality 

from insects and disease due to overstocked conditions. Ponderosa pine will generally not 

regenerate due to overstocked stand conditions; therefore younger cohorts will not replace the 

declining mature and old growth ponderosa pine in the long term. 

 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

 An increase in fuels within targeted stands for treatment will not move the Lemolo Watershed 

towards a historical moderate severity fire regime, therefore increasing the risk of a large, high 

severity fire on Bunker Hill and within the watershed. Maintaining susceptible mature lodge 

pole pine stands targeted for treatment will increase the risk of a landscape level mountain pine 

beetle epidemic in the future, according to Whitehead et al. 2001. 

3.2.9 ALTERNATIVE 2

D E IRECT FFECTS

 Pine health will be promoted on Bunker Hill (488 acres) and within the Lemolo Watershed 

(1703 acres), within units 1-7, 9-16, 18-30, 32, 33, 35-64, and 67-71, through silvicultural 

treatment detailed in the Silvicultural Prescription located in Appendix I. Stand health and 

vigor will also be promoted on Bunker Hill (374 acres) and within the Lemolo Watershed (892 

acres) within units 1, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11, 13, 15, 25, 26, 28, 29, 31, 32, 34, 35, 38, 39, and 67, 

through commercial thinning treatments detailed in the Silvicultural Prescription located in 

Appendix I. Repeated thinnings on extended rotations can maintain forest cover for long 

periods while providing current income and employment (Curtis and Carey 1996; Lippke et al. 

1996), maintaining tree and stand vigor, promoting stand health and stability, and developing 

stand structures favorable to certain wildlife species associated with late successional stages 

(Carey et al. 1996a). All of these treatments combined will lead to decreased mortality in mature 

and old growth pine, a decreased risk of a mountain pine beetle outbreak within mature lodge 

pole pine stands, and increased resistance to insects, disease, and white pine blister rust. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 93

Resistance to white pine blister rust will be promoted through planting of tested rust resistant 

five-needle pine stock and pruning. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

 Fuels and fire hazard will decrease within stands targeted for treatment on Bunker Hill and 

within the Lemolo Watershed, through a decrease in competition mortality and mortality from 

insects and disease, and slash treatment after harvest that reduces fuels to less than 21 tons per 

acre. Ponderosa pine will be established through planting and natural regeneration within units 

2, 3, 5-9, 12-15, 24-26, 32, and 33. These established younger cohorts will replace the mature 

and old growth ponderosa pine in the long term. 

 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

 A decrease in fuels within targeted stands for treatment will move the Lemolo Watershed 

towards a historical moderate severity fire regime, therefore reducing the risk of a large, high 

severity fire on Bunker Hill and within the watershed. Reducing the quantity of susceptible 

mature lodge pole pine stands through silvicultural treatment will decrease the risk of a 

landscape level mountain pine beetle epidemic in the future, according to Whitehead et al. 2001. 

3.2.10 A 3 

D E

LTERNATIVE 

IRECT FFECTS

st will be promoted through planting of tested rust resistant five-needle pine 

stock and pruning. 

 on Bunker Hill. This will lead to 

increased mortality in mature and old growth pine and increased susceptibility to insects and 

 not undergoing silvicultural treatment. 

Pine health will be promoted within the Lemolo Watershed (763 acres), within units 6, 10-13, 

25, 28, 29, 42-47, 49-52, 57-64, 67, and 69-71, through silvicultural treatment detailed in the 

Silvicultural Prescription located in Appendix I. Stand health and vigor will be promoted within 

the Lemolo Watershed (374 acres) within units 6, 10, 11, 13, 25, 28, 29, 31, and 67, through 

commercial thinning treatments detailed in the Silvicultural Prescription located in Appendix I. 

Repeated thinnings on extended rotations can maintain forest cover for long periods while 

providing current income and employment (Curtis and Carey 1996; Lippke et al. 1996), 

maintaining tree and stand vigor, promoting stand health and stability, and developing stand 

structures favorable to certain wildlife species associated with late successional stages (Carey et 

al. 1996a). All of these treatments combined will lead to decreased mortality in mature and old 

growth pine, a decreased risk of a mountain pine beetle outbreak within mature lodge pole pine 

stands, and increased resistance to insects, disease, and white pine blister rust. Resistance to 

white pine blister ru

Pine health and stand health and vigor will not be promoted

disease within stands

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Fuels and fire hazard will decrease within stands targeted for treatment within the Lemolo 

Watershed, through a decrease in competition mortality and mortality from insects and disease, 

and slash treatment after harvest that reduces fuels to less than 21 tons per acre. Ponderosa pine 
94 Glossary Chapter Eight

will be established through planting and natural regeneration within units 6, 12, 13, and 25. 

These established younger cohorts will replace the mature and old growth ponderosa pine in the 

long term. 

t replace 

the declining mature and old growth ponderosa pine on Bunker Hill in the long term. 

Fuels and fire hazard will increase within stands on Bunker Hill, caused by competition 

mortality and increased mortality from insects and disease due to overstocked conditions. This 

will increase the risk of a large, high severity fire on Bunker Hill. Ponderosa pine will generally 

not regenerate due to overstocked stand conditions; therefore younger cohorts will no

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

A decrease in fuels within targeted stands for treatment will move the Lemolo Watershed 

towards a historical moderate severity fire regime, therefore reducing the risk of a large, high 

severity within the watershed except for Bunker Hill. Reducing the quantity of susceptible 

mature lodge pole pine stands through silvicultural treatment will decrease the risk of a 

ntain pine beetle epidemic in the future, according to Whitehead et al. 2001. 

.2.11 ALTERNATIVE 4

landscape level mou

3

DIRECT EFFECTS

Pine health will be promoted on Bunker Hill (102 acres) and within the Lemolo Watershed 

(1032 acres), within units 1, 4, 6, 10-13, 25, 28, 29, 35, 38, 39, 42-64, 67, and 69-71, through 

silvicultural treatment detailed in the Silvicultural Prescription located in Appendix I. Stand 

health and vigor will also be promoted on Bunker Hill (102 acres) and within the Lemolo 

Watershed (553 acres) within units 1, 4, 6, 10, 11, 13, 25, 28, 29, 31, 35, 38, 39, and 67, 

through commercial thinning treatments detailed in the Silvicultural Prescription located in 

Appendix I. Repeated thinnings on extended rotations can maintain forest cover for long 

periods while providing current income and employment (Curtis and Carey 1996; Lippke et al. 

1996), maintaining tree and stand vigor, promoting stand health and stability, and developing 

stand structures favorable to certain wildlife species associated with late successional stages 

(Carey et al. 1996a). All of these treatments combined will lead to decreased mortality in mature 

and old growth pine, a decreased risk of a mountain pine beetle outbreak within mature lodge 

pole pine stands, and increased resistance to insects, disease, and white pine blister rust. 

ine blister rust will be promoted through planting of tested rust resistant 

five-needle pine stock and pruning. 

Resistance to white p

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Fuels and fire hazard will decrease within stands targeted for treatment on Bunker Hill and 

within the Lemolo Watershed, through a decrease in competition mortality and mortality from 

insects and disease, and slash treatment after harvest that reduces fuels to less than 21 tons per 

l be established through planting and natural regeneration within units 

12, 13, and . Thes established younger cohorts will replace the mature and old growth 

 

acre. Ponderosa pine wil

6, 25 e

ponderosa pine in the long term. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 95

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

A decrease in fuels within targeted stands for treatment will move the Lemolo Watershed 

towards a historical moderate severity fire regime, therefore reducing the risk of a large, high 

ker Hill and within the watershed. Reducing the quantity of susceptible 

mature lodge pole pine stands through silvicultural treatment will decrease the risk of a 

untain pine beetle epidemic in the future, according to Whitehead et al. 2001. 

3.2.12

severity fire on Bun

landscape level mo

ALTERNATIVE 5

DIRECT EFFECTS

Pine health will be promoted on Bunker Hill (399 acres) and within the Lemolo Watershed 

(1360 acres), within units 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10-13, 16, 25, 28, 29, 33, 35, 38, 39-47, 49-52, 57-64, 

and 67-71, through silvicultural treatment detailed in the Silvicultural Prescription located in 

Appendix I. Stand health and vigor will also be promoted on Bunker Hill (384 acres) and within 

the Lemolo Watershed (835 acres) within units 1, 3, 4, 6, 10, 11, 13, 25, 28, 29, 31, 35, 38, 39, 

and 67, through commercial thinning treatments detailed in the Silvicultural Prescription located 

in Appendix I. Repeated thinnings on extended rotations can maintain forest cover for long 

periods while providing current income and employment (Curtis and Carey 1996; Lippke et al. 

1996), maintaining tree and stand vigor, promoting stand health and stability, and developing 

stand structures favorable to certain wildlife species associated with late successional stages 

(Carey et al. 1996a). All of these treatments combined will lead to decreased mortality in mature 

 a decreased risk of a mountain pine beetle outbreak within mature lodge 

pole pine stands, and increased resistance to insects, disease, and white pine blister rust. 

and old growth pine,

Resistance to white pine blister rust will be promoted through planting of tested rust resistant 

five-needle pine stock and pruning. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Fuels and fire hazard will decrease within stands targeted for treatment on Bunker Hill and 

shed, through a decrease in competition mortality and mortality from 

ects and dis e, and lash treatment after harvest that reduces fuels to less than 21 tons per 

 

within the Lemolo Water

ins eas s

acre. Ponderosa pine will be established through planting and natural regeneration within units 

3, 6, 7, 12, 13, 25, and 33. These established younger cohorts will replace the mature and old 

growth ponderosa pine in the long term. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

A decrease in fuels within targeted stands for treatment will move the Lemolo Watershed 

towards a historical moderate severity fire regime, therefore reducing the risk of a large, high 

severity fire on Bunker Hill and within the watershed. Reducing the quantity of susceptible 

mature lodge pole pine stands through silvicultural treatment will decrease the risk of a 

landscape level mountain pine beetle epidemic in the future, according to Whitehead et al. 2001. 
96 Glossary Chapter Eight

3.3 RECREATIONAL VALUE IN THE LEMOLO LAKE AREA 

3.3.2 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

The affected environment for recreational value includes the immediate area surrounding 

Lemolo Lake, which is in Management Area 2 (Concentrated Developed Recreation), Pit Lakes, 

Kelsay Valley Trail Head, Lake Charlene, Connie Lake, Kelsay Point, Spring River and 

Thielsen Creek. Proposed harvest units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 14-24, 26, 27, 30, 32-41, 48, 53-56, 

68 and the east half of unit 25 below the 60 road are located near these areas and have been 

identified by some publics to be of significant issue. All of these harvest units are located in the 

MA10/matrix land allocation and are designed to meet LRMP Standards and Guidelines, 

including direction for the Lemolo Lake Recreation Area. 

Currently, many of the forest stand conditions within the affected environment are overstocked. 

These areas are experiencing extreme fuels build up, primarily due to competition mortality and 

insect and disease outbreaks (Picture 4). The affected environment is at risk for high intensity

fire. Additionally, scattered remnant old growth ponderosa pines are on the decline in the area. 

Very little natural regeneration of ponderosa pine is taking place. The primary reasons are fire 

exclusion and competing vegetation. 

Picture 4 – Overstocked mixed conifer stand with high levels of down fuel 

 

The Lemolo Lake Recreation Area lies within the Lakeview 6th Level Sub-watershed. Its area is 

approximately 1,290 acres and is centered on Lemolo Lake. Lemolo Lake is a human made 

reservoir operated by Scottish Power as a hydroelectric facility. The lake is approximately 419 

acres in size at an elevation of 4,230 feet. The recreation area is primarily accessed via Oregon 

State Highway 138 and Forest Service roads 2610, 60, 2612, and 2614. The Lemolo Lake 

Recreation Area is identified in the LRMP as a Special Management Area (MA2) and is to be 

administered for concentrated developed recreation, under prescription A4-1. The USFS 

operates and maintains five campgrounds in the area with a capacity of 95 sites. Major activities 
Chapter Eight Glossary 97

during the summer include camping, boating, fishing, biking, ATV use, swimming, and 

sightseeing. The winter activities are cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. The campgrounds 

usually operate from mid-May (once snow-free) until the end of October or November. Because 

of the high popularity of the area for fall elk hunting, the campgrounds will often remain open 

until the end of November, weather permitting. 

 Pit Lakes is located off of the 2610 road approximately one mile from State highway 138. There 

are two lakes located in this area, both of which were former gravel pits that eventually filled in 

with water. Some rehabilitation work has taken place in the area. A trail leads down a closed 

road (2610-100) to the lakes. Both lakes have been stocked with rainbow and brook trout. Lake 

Creek is near the lakes and is believed to be the source of water that feeds the lakes. Fishermen 

are the primary users of this area, with some dispersed camping that takes place mostly during 

hunting season. 

 Kelsay Valley trail-head is located east of Lemolo Lake and Forest Road 60. The Kelsay Valley 

horse camp is located here. The campground has vault toilets and picnic tables. This area is a 

popular destination for horse recreation. The trail provides access to the Oregon Cascade 

Recreation Area and Mt Thielsen Wilderness. 

 Spring River, located approximately 1 1⁄2 miles southwest of the 60 road and the North Umpqua 

River, receives dispersed recreation use. The primary focus is viewing of the spring that is the 

source for the river. 

 Kelsay Point, Lake Charlene, Connie Lake, and Thielsen Creek areas receive considerable 

dispersed recreation activity and are located near the Oregon Cascades Recreation Area, Thirsty 

Appendage Road less Area, and other semi primitive areas. 

 Visual Quality Objectives (VQO’s) range from retention to modification within the analysis 

area, as defined in the LRMP. The area contains many predominant visual features such as 

Lemolo Lake, Mt. Bailey, Mt. Thielsen, and Bunker Hill. 

3.3.3 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

 The effects of the proposed alternatives on recreation and visual quality in the Lemolo Lake 

area, were evaluated based on public concern, conclusions from the fuels analysis (Appendix 

E), the Silvicultural Prescription (Appendix I), and Visual Resource Objectives (VQO’s) 

(Appendix L) established in the1990 Umpqua National Forest LRMP, as amended. All 

proposed harvest and natural fuels units are located in the MA10/matrix land allocation and are 

designed to meet LRMP Standards and Guidelines, including direction for the Lemolo Lake 

Recreation Area outlined under Management Area 2. 

The number of acres harvested within areas identified as high recreational value through public 

comment was generated for each alternative and serve as evaluation criteria to compare 

alternatives. The analysis below generally shows that there are short term adverse impacts to 

recreation values if harvest activities occur, but long term fire hazard reduction around the 

Lemolo Lake Recreation Area if silvicultural and fuel treatments are implemented. The fire 

analysis section of the Lemolo/Diamond Lake Watershed Analysis identified large areas with 

potential for high intensity fires. Those areas are Bunker Hill, the area north and west of 

Bradley Creek to its confluence with the North Umpqua River and North of the North Umpqua 
98 Glossary Chapter Eight

River to Bunker Hill. These areas include the stands identified as having high recreation value 

by some publics. 

3.3.4 ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) 

DIRECT EFFECTS

 Harvest and natural fuels treatment will be deferred at this time within the analysis area, 

therefore adverse direct effects to recreational values caused by vegetative change, logging 

traffic, smoke, and noise will not occur. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

 Without treatment, stands 1-5, 7, 9, 14-24, 26, 27, 30, 32-41, 48, 53-56, 68 and the south 

portion of unit 25 below the 60 road (total of 945 acres) will continue to experience an increase 

of down and standing fuels, due to competition mortality and insect and disease activity. These 

stands already have artificial high fuel loadings due to fire suppression. High fuel loadings will 

increase the potential of large scale, high intensity fire (Fire Management Report - E) around a 

highly used recreation area. Large scale, high intensity fire would adversely affect visual 

quality, the recreation experience of the area, and public safety. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

 Other projects will occur within the boundary of this analysis area and may contribute to effects 

on recreation. They are as follows: Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction, Electric Salvage, and 

Gigawat and Bearpaw Timber Sales. With the additional operational activity associated with 

these planned projects, the recreational values will be adversely affected by logging traffic, 

smoke, and noise for the short-term. However, these projects will help reduce the risk of large 

scale, high intensity fire and its potential significant adverse effect on visual quality, 

recreational experience, and public safety. 

3.3.5 ALTERNATIVE 2 (PROPOSED ACTION) 

DIRECT EFFECTS

 This alternative will treat 945 acres in stands 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 14-24, 26, 27, 30, 32-41, 48, 53-

56, 68 and a portion of 25 within the Bunker Hill, Pit Lakes, Kelsay Valley Trail Head, Lake 

Charlene, Connie Lake, Kelsay Point, Spring River and Thielsen Creek areas that were 

identified as high recreational value through public comment. The recreation experience for 

forest visitors will be adversely affected by the noise and traffic that will occur during logging 

operations. Smoke from burning harvest slash and natural fuels units will adversely affect 

recreational values. These activities will be mitigated through signing and timing restrictions for 

scheduled operations. The overall effect will be short-term (approximately 1-3 months in 

duration). 

A visual quality analysis was conducted by Laura Blecker (Forest Landscape Architect), for 

action alternatives and is located in Appendix L. The analysis shows that there will be no 

adverse effect to the overall visual quality of the area, generally due to the design of 
Chapter Eight Glossary 99

silvicultural prescriptions for Bunker Hill (Appendix I - Silvicultural Prescription) that meet 

There will be no adverse visual effects to the North Umpqua Trail from harvest operations. 

ed 200 foot no harvest buffer on either side of the trail. 

Forest Plan Standard and Guidelines for visual quality objectives (Appendix L). 

This is due to a requir

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Silvicultural and fuel treatments will reduce present and future fire hazard within and around 

stands with high

 

 recreation value. This would help reduce the risk of large scale, high intensity 

fire and its potential significant adverse affect on visual quality, recreational experience, and 

public safety. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

Other projects will occur within the boundary of this analysis area and may contribute to effects 

on recreation. They are as follows: Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction, Electric Salvage, and 

Gigawat and Bearpaw Timber Sales. Recreational values will be adversely affected by logging 

traffic, smoke, and noise associated with these planned projects in conjunction with proposed 

activities in Alternative 2. How

 

ever, these projects will help reduce the risk of large scale, high 

intensity fire and its potential significant adverse effect on visual quality, recreational 

 

ese activities uld be mitigated through signing and timing restrictions for scheduled 

rall effect would be short term (approximately 1-3 months in duration). 

.3.6

experience, and public safety. 

 Th wo

operations. The ove

3 ALTERNATIVE 3

DIRECT EFFECTS

This alternative will not harvest any of the stands identified as high recreational value through 

public comment within the Bunker Hill, Pit Lakes, Kelsay Valley Trail Head, Lake Charlene, 

Connie Lake, Kelsay Point, Spring River and Thielsen Creek areas. Adverse direct effects to 

recreational values caused by vegetative change, logging traffic, smoke, and noise will not 

occur. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Without treatment, stands 1-5, 7, 9, 14-24, 26, 27, 30, 32-41, 48, 53-56, 68 and the south 

portion of unit 25 below the 60 road (total of 945 acres) will continue to experience an increase 

of down and standing fuels, due to competition mortality and insect and disease activity. These 

stands already have artificial high fuel loadings due to fire suppression. High fuel loadings will 

increase the potential of large scale, high intensity fire (Fire Management Report - Appendix E) 

 highly used recreation area. Large scale, high intensity fire would adversely affect 

ality, the recreation experience of the area, and public safety. 

around a

visual qu
100 Glossary Chapter Eight

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Other projects will occur within the boundary of this analysis area and may contribute to effects 

on recreation. They are as follows: Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction, Electric Salvage, and 

Gigawat and Bearpaw Timber Sales. Recreational values will be adversely affected by logging 

traffic, smoke, and noise associated with these planned projects. However, these projects will 

help reduce the risk of large scale, high intensity fire and its potential significant adverse effect 

on visual quality, recreational experience, and public safety. These activities will be mitigated 

through signing and timing restrictions for scheduled operations. The overall effect will be short 

 1-3 months in duration). 

.3.7

term (approximately

3 ALTERNATIVE 4

DIRECT EFFECTS

This alternative will harvest 271 acres in stands 1, 4, 35, 38, 39, 48, 53, 54, 55 & 56 within the 

Bunker Hill, Pit Lakes, Kelsay Valley Trail Head, Lake Charlene, Connie Lake, Kelsay Point, 

Spring River and Thielsen Creek areas identified as high recreational value through public 

comment. The recreation experience for forest visitors will be adversely affected by the noise 

and traffic that will occur during logging operations. Smoke from burning harvest slash and 

natural fuels units will also adversely affect recreational values. These activities will be 

mitigated through signing and timing restrictions for scheduled operations. The overall effect 

the design of 

erse visual effects to the North Umpqua Trail from harvest operations. 

ed 200 foot no harvest buffer on either side of the trail. 

will be short term (approximately 1-3 months in duration). 

A visual quality analysis was conducted by Laura Blecker (Forest Landscape Architect), for 

action alternatives and is located in Appendix L. The analysis shows that there will be no 

adverse effect to the overall visual quality of the area, generally due to 

silvicultural prescriptions for Bunker Hill (Appendix I - Silvicultural Prescription) that meet 

Forest Plan Standard and Guidelines for visual quality objectives (Appendix L). 

There will be no adv

This is due to a requir

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Without treatment, stands 2, 3, 7, 9, 14-24, 26, 27, 30, 32-34, 36, 37, 40, 41, 68 and the south 

portion of unit 25 below the 60 road (total of 674 acres) will continue to experience an increase 

of down and standing fuels, due to competition mortality and insect and disease activity. These 

stands already have artificial high fuel loadings due to fire suppression. High fuel loadings will 

increase the potential of large scale, high intensity fire (Fire Management Report - Appendix E) 

ral and fuel treatments will reduce present and future fire hazard over 271 acres within 

stands with high recreation value. This will help reduce the risk of large scale, high intensity fire 

otential significant adverse affect on visual quality, recreational experience, and public 

 

around a highly used recreation area. Large scale, high intensity fire would adversely affect 

visual quality, the recreation experience of the area, and public safety. 

Silvicultu

and its p

safety. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 101

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Other projects will occur within the boundary of this analysis area and may contribute to effects 

on recreation. They are as follows: Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction, Electric Salvage, and 

Gigawat and Bearpaw Timber Sales. Recreational values will be adversely affected by logging 

traffic, smoke, and noise associated with these planned projects in conjunction with proposed 

activities in Alternative 4. However, these projects will help reduce the risk of large scale, high 

intensity fire and its potential significant adverse effect on visual quality, recreational 

 

These activities will be mitigated through signing and timing restrictions for scheduled 

rall effect will be short term (approximately 1-3 months in duration). 

.3.8

experience, and public safety. 

operations. The ove

3 ALTERNATIVE 5

DIRECT EFFECTS

This alternative will harvest 599 acres in stands 1, 3, 4, 7, 16, 17, 33, 35, 38-41 & 68 within the 

Bunker Hill, Pit Lakes, Kelsay Valley Trail Head, Lake Charlene, Connie Lake, Kelsay Point, 

Spring River and Thielsen Creek areas identified as high recreational value through public 

comment. The recreation experience for forest visitors will be adversely affected by the noise 

and traffic that will occur during logging operations. Smoke from burning harvest slash and 

natural fuels units will also adversely affect recreational values. These activities will be 

mitigated through signing and timing restrictions for scheduled operations. The overall effect 

the design of 

erse visual effects to the North Umpqua Trail from harvest operations. 

his is due a requ ed 200 foot no harvest buffer on either side of the trail. 

will be short term (approximately 1-3 months in duration). 

A visual quality analysis was conducted by Laura Blecker (Forest Landscape Architect), for 

action alternatives and is located in Appendix L. The analysis shows that there will be no 

adverse effect to the overall visual quality of the area, generally due to 

silvicultural prescriptions for Bunker Hill (Appendix L - Silvicultural Prescription) that meet 

Forest Plan Standard and Guidelines for visual quality objectives (Appendix L). 

There will be no adv

T to ir

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Without treatment, stands 2, 5, 9, 14, 15, 18-24, 26, 27, 30, 32, 34, 36, 37, 48, 53-56, and the 

south portion of unit 25 below the 60 road (total of 346 acres) will continue to experience an 

increase of down and standing fuels, due to competition mortality and insect and disease 

activity. These stands already have artificial high fuel loadings due to fire suppression. High 

fuel loadings will increase the potential of large scale, high intensity fire (Fire Management 

ral and fuel treatments will reduce present and future fire hazard over 599 acres within 

stands with high recreation value. This will help reduce the risk of large scale, high intensity fire 

t adverse affect on visual quality, recreational experience, and public 

safety. 

Report - Appendix E) around a highly used recreation area. Large scale, high intensity fire 

would adversely affect visual quality, the recreation experience of the area, and public safety. 

Silvicultu

and its potential significan
102 Glossary Chapter Eight

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Other projects will occur within the boundary of this analysis area and may contribute to effects 

on recreation. They are as follows: Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction, Electric Salvage, and 

Gigawat and Bearpaw Timber Sales. Recreational values will be adversely affected by logging 

traffic, smoke, and noise associated with these planned projects in conjunction with proposed 

activities in Alternative 5. However, these projects will help reduce the risk of large scale, high 

gh signing and timing restrictions for scheduled 

operations. The overall effect would be short term (approximately 1-3 months in duration). 

.4 FUELS AND FIRE MANAGEMENT 

3.4.2

The affected environment are those areas where harvest, road construction, road decommission 

fuel size 

 partially described by the fuel quantity and ratio of 

surface area to volume for each size class and the depth of the fuel bed. The National Forest Fire 

 to control, fire residence time or duration of intensity, and fire crowning potential are 

not modeled by the NFFL fuel models; however, some fuel models do have a greater resistance 

er respectively) represent the present condition 

in the proposed harvest and prescribed fire units. Fuel model 8 has a predicted flame length that 

intensity fire and its potential significant adverse effect on visual quality, recreational 

experience, and public safety. 

 These activities would be mitigated throu

3

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 

and prescribed fire activities are proposed, the stands adjacent to the proposed activities, and the 

Lemolo Analysis Area. 

 Current fuel loading in the 0 to 8 inch size class in the proposed harvest units range from 5 to 20 

tons per acre and in the proposed prescribed fire units 8 to 22 tons per acre. 

Umpqua National Forest Hazard Reduction Standards recommends treating activity created 

slash to reduce fuel amounts to a level between 12 and 21 tons an acre in the 0 to 8 inch size 

class. It must be emphasized here that only the fine and medium (0 to 8 inch diameter) 

classes are addressed in the hazard reduction standard. The large material is usually not a 

concern from the perspective of fire risk or rate of spread and is not considered in the fire 

behavior fuel models. For this reason, large material is not addressed in this standard. 

Fuel Models are a classification of fuel

Lab has developed fuel models for modeling fire behavior these are called fire behavior fuel 

models or National Forest Fire Lab (NFFL) fuel models. All fuel models have been expressed 

as NFFL fuel models in this document. 

Resistance

to control and show greater duration of intensity. Efforts are underway to develop a crown fire 

potential model but at the time this analysis was begun that modeling technique was not 

available. 

Fuel models 8 and 10 (light and heavy timber litt

would allow for effective suppression using ground crews under most weather conditions. Fuel 

model 10 has a predicted flame length and resistance to control that is above the effective limit 

for suppression using ground crews (Picture 5). 
Chapter Eight Glossary 103

pre-1900’s) showed that over 75% of the watershed was in fuel 

model 8 and 15% of the watershed was in fuel model 10. Currently that condition is reversed 

in fuel 

m

The reference time period (

with approximately 5% of the watershed in fuel model 8 and over 70% of the watershed 

odel 10 (Diamond Lake / Lemolo Lake Watershed Analysis, Chapter Four, page 137, Figure 2 

- Fuel Model Distribution). 

Picture 5 – Fuel Model 10 within a mature mixed conifer stand 

A fire history survey conducted during the Lemolo and Diamond Lake Watershed Analysis 

determined that this analysis area currently has a fire regime that most resembles a high-severity

fire regime. Much of the affected environment in the planning area had a moderate-severity fire 

regime until the early 1900’s (Diamond Lake/Lemolo Lake Watershed Analysis, Chapter Four, 

Fire Disturbance, pages 131-141). A moderate-severity fire regime is characterized by

infrequent fires (25 to 100 years) and significant areas of high and low severity resulting in 

partial stand replacement. Fires typically burns weeks to months, and periods of intense 

behavior are mixed with periods of moderate to low intensity fire behavior. Moderate-severity

nt fires of usually

high intensity. 

or of mature and 

growth pondero ine and ugar pine within the Lemolo planning area. Lack of fire has led 

under story development of shade tolerant species, and mature 

natural fire regimes produce patchy stands of various sizes mixed with patches of multi-sized 

stands, (Agee 1990). A high-severity fire regime is characterized by infreque

One interesting note is through the fire history study it was discovered that a large portion of the 

watershed burned in at least three major fire events between 1880 and 1910. 

The absence of fire due to fire suppression efforts since the early 1900’s, white pine blister rust, 

and the mountain pine beetle have contributed to the decline in health and vig

old sa p s

to overstocked stand conditions,
104 Glossary Chapter Eight

lodge pole pine stands greater than 80 years of age that are highly susceptible to a mountain 

.4.3 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 

ts with a view of the watershed, and 

anecdotal information from early travelers through the area. The watershed analysis determined 

n) and UPAD data (Umpqua National Forest Project Activity Database). PMR is based 

on photo interpretation of the Anderson Land Use / Cover classification scheme, and UPAD is 

 / Lemolo Lake Watershed 

Analysis, Chapter Four Analysis Procedures, Assumptions, Data Gaps, Page 132, paragraph 

 in Western Forests”, authored by Graham, Harvey, Jain, and Tonn, and published in 

r 1999 in General Technical Report PNW-GTR-463; and “The Effect of Fuels 

Conclusions 

from these two publications that were utilized in determining effects related to fire hazard 

rs has contributed to greater stand densities 

and an increase in crown fire potential in many forests of the West (Mutch 1994)”. 

d from fire-adapted species to species more susceptible to fire 

that tend to form unhealthy stands prone to large-scale wildfires, as well as increased outbreaks 

own base height are primary stand characteristics that 

determine crown fire potential”. 

pine beetle outbreak, and an increased risk of large scale, high intensity fire. 

3

The analysis of fire hazard revolves around the stands prescribed for harvest or natural fuels 

treatment as recommended by the Diamond Lake / Lemolo Lake Watershed Analysis. 

Analyses of reference conditions (pre 1900’s) involved examination of the fire return interval 

left as fire scars in tree rings, stand ages and composition, vegetation patterns from older aerial 

photographs, photos taken in the 1930’s from lookou

that the reference condition for most of the affected areas in the planning area is a mixedseverity fire regime as described by Agee (Agee, 1993). The proposed units north and east of 

Bunker Hill are in an area of high-severity fire regime. 

The current fire regime was also determined during the watershed analysis. The watershed 

analysis used fire occurrence data, recent fire effects, current fuel models, and current air 

quality. Data was gathered from the Umpqua National Forest Fire Atlas for fires occurring 

between 1932 through 1963, fire size was recorded by size class, and cause was recorded as 

human or lightning. Fire data was retrieved from the National Fire Occurrence Data Library for 

fires occurring between 1970 and 1996. The current fuel model map on GIS (Geographic 

Information System) was also used. The fuel model map was developed from PMR data (Pacific 

Meridia

based on current information of managed stands. (Diamond Lake

three) 

The current fire regime most resembles a high-severity fire regime. 

Two scientific publications were used to validate the effects of silvicultural and fuel treatments 

on wildfire hazard. They were “The Effects of Thinning and Similar Stand Treatments on Fire 

Behavior

Septembe

Treatment on Wildfire Severity”, authored by Omni and Martinson, and published in March 

2002 out of the Western Forest Fire Research Center, Colorado State University. 

include: 

“Successful fire exclusion over the past 60 to 70 yea

“In addition, forests have change

of insects and diseases (McCool and others 1997)”. 

“Crown bulk density, surface fuel, and cr
Chapter Eight Glossary 105

“Thinning from below, free thinning, and reserve shelterwoods have the greatest opportunity for 

reducing the risk of crown fire behavior.” Thinning from below and shelterwoods are prescribed 

for many stands in all action alternatives. 

n bulk densities and redistribute fuel loads significantly, 

thus decreasing fire intensities, if the surface fuels are treated (Agee 1993, Alexander 1988, 

“Depending on intensity, thinning from below and possibly free thinning can most effectively 

given set of physical and weather 

variables.” 

gh the use of thinnings throughout the West 

is when applied in conjunction with prescribed fire.” Both thinning from below combined with 

 basal area), fire 

 The number of acres treated to reduce fire hazard on Bunker Hill and within the entire Lemolo 

planning area were generated for each alternative and serve as evaluation criteria to compare 

alternatives. Fire hazard is considered effectively reduced when fuel treatment following harvest 

reduced fuel levels to less than 21 tons per acre and when prescribed burning results in fuel 

model 8 over at least 80 percent of the area. Fire rate of spread and flame length were also used 

as evaluation criteria for fire hazard on Bunker Hill. 

“Thinnings in general will lower crow

Alexander and Yancik 1977).” 

“Fire intensity in thinned stands is greatly reduced if thinning is accompanied by reducing the 

surface fuels created by the cuttings.” 

alter fire behavior by reducing crown bulk density, increasing crown base height, and changing 

species composition to lighter crowned and fire-adapted species. Such intermediate treatments 

can reduce the severity and intensity of wildfires for a 

“The best success in modifying fire behavior throu

prescribed fire are used throughout the action alternatives. 

Results from research (Omi 2002) provide strong evidence of fuel treatment efficacy or capacity 

to achieve the desired reduction in fire intensity. 

Crown fire hazard (height to crown, crown bulk density, stand density, and

resistance (height and diameter), and fire severity (scorch height, crown volume scorch, stand 

damage, and depth of ground char) were compared between treated and untreated areas in a 

recent study conducted at the Western Forest Fire Research Center at Colorado State University. 

Their results unanimously indicate that thinned stands experience lower fire severity than 

unthinned stands that burn under similar weather and topographic conditions. 
106 Glossary Chapter Eight

3.4.4 ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) 

DIRECT EFFECTS 

 Fuels and fire hazard will increase within stands targeted for silvicultural and fuel treatments in 

Alternative 2 on Bunker Hill and within the Lemolo Watershed. Increases will be attributed to 

competition mortality, increased mortality from insects and disease due to overstocked 

conditions, and crown development. 

 The no action alternative will not help reduce fuel levels to less than 21 tons / acre. Ladder 

fuels will continue to increase without management designed to reduce crown layering through 

silvicultural and fuel treatments. Crown bulk densities and surface fuels will continue to 

increase, while low crown base heights will be maintained. High levels and continuous large 

areas of fuel model 10 or ‘heavy’ fuels will be maintained at the watershed scale. 

 The no action alternative would not decommission or close roads. Detection and access to fire 

starts would remain the same. Most of the roads that are proposed for decommissioning are not 

drivable now due to small trees and logs in the road; however, they could be utilized for foot 

travel by firefighters, and some could be easily opened for vehicle travel. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS 

 A wildland fire occurring under high fire danger fire weather conditions (90th percentile) on 

Bunker Hill would lurch along; moving quickly at 6 to 9 feet per minute through most of the 

area hitting locals of slower spreading conditions of a little over 2 feet per minute. A weighted 

average of the rate of spread for Bunker Hill is 8.1 feet per minute. Rate of spread does not 

consider spreading by short or long range spotting or by material rolling down a slope and 

igniting spots. Rate of spread as compared to size of fire on arrival and rate of fire line 

construction are used to predict fire size over time and difficulty for containment. 

 Similarly, flame lengths are predicted of over 5 feet through most of the Bunker Hill area with 

locals of less fuel predicting slightly over 1 foot flame length. A weighted average of the area is 

4.9 feet. Flame lengths are a visual indicator of fire intensity, of BTU’s (British Thermal Unitsa measure of heat energy) being released by the flaming edge of a fire, and of crowning 

potential. Suppression by hand crews of fires exhibiting flame lengths of over 4 feet along the 

flaming front will be unsuccessful without water, dozers and/or aircraft. Crown base heights 

lower than 10 feet are susceptible to group torching possibly crown fire development. Other 

ladder fuels in the form of dead tree branches, dead tree boles, and under story trees are present 

and susceptible to tree torching and possible crown fire development. 

Fire behavior predictions using Behave Plus indicate that fires burning under these conditions 

will have predicted mortality of 9 to 40 percent of the over story on Bunker Hill with a 

weighted average of 15 percent. Under story mortality has a predicted weighted average of 80 

percent. This type of fire will adversely affect the visual quality, the recreation experience of 

the area, and public safety on and around Bunker Hill. 

Currently ponderosa pine will generally not regenerate due to overstocked stand conditions; 

therefore younger cohorts will not replace the declining mature and old growth ponderosa pine 
Chapter Eight Glossary 107

in the long term. Ponderosa pine is a fire tolerant species and can withstand periodic fire events, 

creating a more sustainable stand condition in the future. The lack of pine regeneration in these 

stands and continued encroachment of Douglas-fir and white fir in the under story will add to 

the risk of high intensity fire. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

e; the current high-severity fire regime will be 

maintained. 

ing parts of the

watershed towards their historical moderate-severity fire regime. 

There will be no change in the fire regim

Other projects have occurred in the past or will occur in the foreseeable future that will reduce 

fuel and fire hazar the boundary of this planning area. They are Lemolo Fire Hazard 

Reduction (1432) (Picture 6), Gigawat Timber Sale, and Bear Paw Timber Sale. Silvicultural 

treatments followed by fuels treatment will reduce resulting slash to meet Umpqua National 

Forest Hazard Reduction Standards and hazard reduction treatments will reduce threat of fire to 

Lemolo Resort. Both types of projects total approximately 1437 acres, mov

d within 

Picture 6 – Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction Project – hand piles along main road 

ial thinning, power line right-of-way clearing, roadside brushing and hazard tree 

felling. 

Projects have occurred in the past or will occur in the foreseeable future that have added fuel

and increased fire hazard within the boundary of this planning area. These projects are precommerc

The number of acres to be pre-commercial thinned is dependent on funding and could range 

from zero to 600 acres. Pre-commercial thinning will increase the fuel levels in the watershed 

and will not meet forest hazard reduction standards but will improve health and vigor of the
108 Glossary Chapter Eight

stand over the long term. Competition mortality will decrease over the next 50 years after precommercial thinning, therefore reducing fuel buildup of 4-8” diameter material within managed 

stands. 

.4.5 ALTERNATIVE 2 

DIRECT EFFECTS 

3

adder fuels will be significantly reduced 

through silvicultural and fuel treatments, (Picture 7). 

This alternative will treat a total of 1861 acres; 1579 acres through timber harvest and 

subsequent slash treatment and 282 acres through prescribed fire treatments. Harvest will create 

slash thus increase the fire hazard, this activity created slash will be treated within 6 months to 

two years after harvest. The fuel profile after fuel treatments will be reduced to 12-21 tons per 

acre of 0-8” material. The majority of the treated area will be converted to a fuel model 8, with 

some fuel model 5 and/or fuel model 11. Crown bulk densities and surface fuels will decrease, 

while crown base heights will dramaticall e. L y increas

Picture 7 – Typical thinning from below that reduces ladder fuel 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

e of fire line construction are used to predict fire size 

over time and difficulty of containment. 

 

A wildland fire occurring under high fire danger fire weather conditions (90th percentile) on 

Bunker Hill would lurch along; moving slowly at less than a foot per minute to 2 feet per 

minute through most of the area hitting locals of faster spreading conditions of a little over 5 

feet per minute. A weighted average of the rate of spread for Bunker Hill following treatment in 

this alternative is 2.2 feet per minute. Rate of spread does not consider spreading by short or 

long range spotting or by material rolling down a slope and igniting spots. Rate of spread as 

compared to size of fire on arrival and rat
Chapter Eight Glossary 109

 Flame lengths are predicted to be less than 2 feet through most of the Bunker Hill area, except 

for locals where greater flame lengths may be expected. Flame lengths are a visual indicator of 

fire intensity, of BTU’s being released by the flaming edge of a fire, and of crowning potential. 

Suppression by hand crews of fires exhibiting these predicted flame lengths can be successful 

under all but the most extreme conditions. Individual tree torching may be expected however; 

due to the high crown base height crown fire development is unlikely. Overall tree mortality 

under the conditions described above is predicted at 10 percent (Behave Plus). 

 A buffer of reduced fire hazard will be created along roads 2612 and 60 through silvicultural 

treatments and prescribed burning. This is north of the Lemolo area, north of the Kelsay Valley 

area, and west of the Bradley Creek drainage. This reduced fire hazard area improves the 

likelihood of preventing large fires from spreading west out of the OCRA, east into the OCRA, 

south into the Lemolo Lake Recreation Composite, or north out of the Lemolo Lake Recreation 

Composite. Kelsay Valley trailhead and campground will have the fire hazard on the north side 

of the campground reduced, improving public safety in this area. 

 Ten and six tenths miles of road decommissioning may have an indirect adverse effect as it 

relates to detection, access, and response time to wildland fires in the analysis area. 

Decommissioning roads may increase detection time, increase fire suppression response time, 

and decrease logistical support ability. Most of the roads that are proposed for decommissioning 

are not drivable now due to small trees and logs or rocks and berms in the road, however they 

can be used as walkways for firefighters and some can be easily opened for vehicle access. 

Ponderosa pine will be established through planting and natural regeneration within units 2, 3, 

5-9, 12-15, 24-26, 32, and 33. These established younger cohorts will replace the mature and 

old growth ponderosa pine in the long term. Ponderosa pine is a fire tolerant species and can 

withstand periodic low and moderate severity fire events, creating a more sustainable and 

res con in ilient stand dition the future. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

silvicultural treatments and prescribed fire treatments will move the Lemolo Watershed towards 

the historical moderate-severity fire regime on Bunker Hill and decrease the risk of a large, high 

reduce threat of fire to Lemolo Resort. All three types of projects total approximately 2816 

 

ased fire hazard within the boundary of this planning area. These projects are precommercial thinning, power line right-of-way clearing, roadside brushing and hazard tree 

felling. 

severity fire on Bunker Hill and within the watershed. 

Other projects have also occurred in the past or will occur in the foreseeable future that will 

reduce fuel and fire hazard within the boundary of this planning area. They are Lemolo Fire 

Hazard Reduction (935 acres), Gigawat Timber Sale, and Bear Paw Timber Sale. In 

combination with the actions proposed in this alternative silvicultural treatments followed by 

fuels treatment will reduce resulting slash to meet Umpqua National Forest Hazard Reduction 

Standards, prescribe burning treatments in this alternative and hazard reduction treatments will 

acres, moving parts of the watershed towards the historical moderate-severity fire regime. 

Projects have occurred in the past or will occur in the foreseeable future that have added fuel 

and incre
110 Glossary Chapter Eight

The number of acres pre-commercial thinned is dependent on funding and could range from 

zero to 600 acres. Pre-commercial thinning will increase the fuel levels in the watershed and 

will not meet forest hazard reduction standards but will improve health and vigor of the stand 

over the long term. Competition mortality will decrease over the next 50 years after precommercial thinning, therefore reducing potential fuel buildup of 4-8”diameter material within 

managed stands. 

.4.6 ALTERNATIVE 3 

DIRECT EFFECTS 

3

increase. Ladder fuels will be significantly reduced through silvicultural and fuel 

treatments. 

mortality from insects and disease due to 

overstocked conditions, and crown development. 

This alternative will treat a total of 939 acres; 636 acres through timber harvest and subsequent 

slash treatment, and 303 acres prescribed fire treatment, silvicultural treatments exclude stands 

identified as having high recreational value. Harvest will create slash thus increase the fire 

hazard, this activity created slash will be treated within 6 months to two years after harvest. 

The fuel profile after fuel treatments will be reduced to 12-21 tons per acre of 0-8” material. 

The majority of the treated area will be converted to a fuel model 8, with some fuel model 5 

and/or fuel model 11. Crown bulk densities and surface fuels will decrease, while crown base 

heights will 

No silvicultural or fuel treatments will occur within stands identified as having high recreational 

value, including Bunker Hill. Fuels and fire hazard will continue to increase (over time) within 

stands not targeted for silvicultural and fuel treatments on Bunker Hill. Increases will be 

attributed to competition mortality, increased 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

A wildland fire occurring under high fire danger fire weather conditions (the 90th percentile) 

on Bunker Hill would lurch along; moving quickly at 6 to 8 feet per minute through most of the 

area hitting locals of slower spreading conditions of a little over 2 feet per minute. A weighted 

average of the rate of spread for Bunker Hill is 8.1 feet per minute. Rate of spread does not 

consider spreading by short or long range spotting or by material rolling down a slope and 

igniting spots. Rate of spread as compared to size of fire on arrival and rate of fire line 

fire development. 

Other ladder fuels in the form of dead tree branches, dead tree boles, and under story trees are 

construction are used to predict fire size over time. 

Similarly, flame lengths are predicted of over 4 and over 5 feet through most of the Bunker Hill 

area with locals of less fuel predicting slightly over 1 foot flame length. A weighted average of 

the area is 4.9 feet. Flame lengths are a visual indicator of fire intensity, of BTU’s (British 

Thermal Units- a measure of heat energy) being released by the flaming edge of a fire, and of 

crowning potential. Suppression by hand crews of fires exhibiting flame lengths of over 4 feet 

along the flaming front will be unsuccessful without water, dozers and/or aircraft. Crown base 

heights lower than 10 feet are susceptible to group torching possibly crown 

present and susceptible to tree torching and possible crown fire development. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 111

the over story on Bunker Hill with a 

weighted average of 15 percent. Under story mortality has a predicted weighted average of 80 

ce the declining mature and old growth Ponderosa pine in the 

long term on Bunker Hill. The lack of pine regeneration in these stands and continued 

, east into the OCRA, south into the 

Lemolo Lake Recreation Composite, or north out of the Lemolo Lake Recreation Composite. 

e, 

and decrease logistical support ability. Most of the roads that are proposed for decommissioning 

to small trees and logs or rocks and berms in the road, however they 

can be used as walkways for firefighters and some can be easily opened for vehicle access. 

Fire behavior predictions using Behave Plus indicate that fires burning under these conditions 

will have predicted mortality of 9 to 40 percent of 

percent. This type of fire will adversely affect the visual quality, the recreation experience of 

the area, and public safety on and around Bunker Hill. 

Ponderosa pine will generally not regenerate due to overstocked stand conditions; therefore 

younger cohorts will not repla

encroachment of Douglas-fir and white fir in the under story will add to the risk of high 

intensity fire on Bunker Hill. 

A buffer of reduced fire hazard will be created along roads 2612 and 60 through prescribed 

natural fuels burning. This is north of the Lemolo area, north of the Kelsay Valley area, and 

west of the Bradley Creek drainage. This reduced fire hazard area improves the likelihood of 

preventing large fires from spreading west out of the OCRA

Kelsay Valley trailhead and campground will have the fire hazard on the north side of the 

campground reduced, improving public safety in this area. 

Eleven and two tenths miles of road decommissioning may have an indirect adverse effect as it 

relates to detection, access, and response time to wildland fires in the analysis area. 

Decommissioning roads may increase detection time, increase fire suppression response tim

are not drivable now due 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

 Silvicultural treatments and prescribed fire treatments will move the Lemolo Watershed towards 

the historical moderate-severity fire regime and decrease the risk of a large fire within the 

watershed, except for Bunker Hill. 

Other projects have also occurred in the past or will occur in the foreseeable future that will 

reduce fuel and fire hazard within the boundary of this planning area. They are Lemolo Fire 

Hazard Reduction (1432 acres), Gigawat Timber Sale, and Bear Paw Timber Sale. In 

combination with the actions proposed in this alternative silvicultural treatments followed by 

oving parts of the watershed towards the historical moderate-severity fire regime. 

fuels treatment will reduce resulting slash to meet Umpqua National Forest Hazard Reduction 

Standards, prescribe burning treatments in this alternative and hazard reduction treatments will 

reduce threat of fire to Lemolo Resort. All three types of projects total approximately 2393 

acres, m

 Projects have occurred in the past or will occur in the foreseeable future that have added fuel 

and increased fire hazard within the boundary of this planning area. These projects are precommercial thinning, power line right-of-way clearing, roadside brushing and hazard tree 

felling 
112 Glossary Chapter Eight

The number of acres pre-commercial thinned is dependent on funding and could range from 

Pre-commercial thinning will increase the fuel levels in the watershed and 

will not meet forest hazard reduction standards but will improve health and vigor of the stand 

. Competition mortality will decrease over the next 50 years after precommercial thinning, therefore reducing potential fuel buildup of 4-8”diameter material within 

3.4.7

zero to 600 acres. 

over the long term

managed stands. 

ALTERNATIVE 4 

DIRECT EFFECTS 

This alternative will treat a total of 1208 acres; 905 acres through timber harvest and subsequent 

slash treatment, and 303 acres of prescribed fire treatment, silvicultural treatments exclude 

stands identified as having old growth habitat. Harvest will create slash thus increase the fire 

hazard, this activity created slash will be treated within 6 months to two years after harvest. The 

fuel 

treatments, including 102 acres on Bunker Hill 

Approximately 386 acres will not receive harvest or fuel treatments on Bunker Hill. Fuels and 

fuel profile after fuel treatments will be reduced to 12-21 tons per acre of 0-8” material. The 

majority of the treated area will be converted to a fuel model 8, with some fuel model 5 and/or 

fuel model 11. Crown bulk densities and surface fuels will decrease, while crown base heights 

will increase. Ladder fuels will be significantly reduced through silvicultural and 

fire hazard will continue to increase (over time) within stands not targeted for silvicultural and 

fuel treatments on Bunker Hill. Increases will be attributed to competition mortality, increased 

mortality from insects and disease due to overstocked conditions, and crown development. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

 A wildland fire occurring under high fire danger fire weather conditions (the 90th percentile) on 

Bunker Hill would lurch along; moving quickly at 6 to 9 feet per minute in areas and dropping 

to about a foot a minute in other areas. A weighted average of the rate of spread for Bunker Hill 

is 6.7 feet per minute. Rate of spread does not consider spreading by short or long range 

spotting or by material rolling down a slope and igniting spots. Rate of spread as compared to 

size of fire on arrival and rate of fire line construction are used to predict fire size over time. 

Similarly, flame lengths are predicted to vary from 1 to 5 feet in the Bunker Hill area with a 

ts lower than 8 

feet are susceptible to small group torching, other ladder fuels in the form of dead tree branches, 

fety on and around Bunker Hill. 

weighted average in the area is 4.0 feet. Flame lengths are a visual indicator of fire intensity, of 

BTU’s being released by the flaming edge of a fire, and of crowning potential. Suppression by 

hand crews of fires exhibiting flame lengths of 4 feet along the flaming front may be successful 

or may require the use of heavy equipment such as Dozers. Crown base heigh

dead tree boles, and under story trees are present and are susceptible to groups of trees torching 

and possible crown fire development is possible in some locals on Bunker Hill. 

Fire behavior predictions using BehavePlus indicate that fires burning under these conditions 

will have predicted mortality of 7 to 15 percent of the over story on Bunker Hill with a 

weighted average of 10 percent. This type of fire may adversely affect the visual quality, the 

recreation experience of the area, and public sa
Chapter Eight Glossary 113

 A buffer of reduced fire hazard will be created along roads 2612 and 60, through prescribed 

burning. This is north of the Lemolo area, north of the Kelsay Valley area, and west of the 

Bradley Creek drainage. This reduced fire hazard area improves the likelihood of preventing 

large fires from spreading west out of the OCRA, east into the OCRA, south into the Lemolo 

Lake Recreation Composite, or north out of the Lemolo Lake Recreation Composite. Kelsay 

Valley trailhead and campground will have the fire hazard on the north side of the campground 

reduced, improving public safety in this area. 

 ability. Most of the roads that are proposed for decommissioning 

are not drivable now due to small trees and logs or berms and rocks in the road, however they 

some can be easily opened for vehicle access. 

ong term. Ponderosa pine is a fire tolerant species and can withstand 

periodic fire events of low and moderate fire intensity, creating a more sustainable and resilient 

Eleven and two tenths miles of road decommissioning may have an indirect adverse effect as it 

relates to detection, access, and response time to wildland fires in the analysis area. 

Decommissioning roads may increase detection time, increase fire suppression response time, 

and decrease logistical support

can be used as walkways for firefighters and 

Ponderosa pine will be established through planting and natural regeneration within units 6, 12, 

13, and 25. These established younger cohorts will replace the mature and old growth 

ponderosa pine in the l

stand condition in the future. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

silvicultural treatments and prescribed fire treatments will move the Lemolo Watershed towards 

the historical moderate-severity fire regime which includes the treatment of 102 acres on 

Bunker Hill. This alternative will decrease the risk of a large fire within the watershed, 

including Bunker Hill. 

ion with the actions proposed in this alternative silvicultural treatments followed by 

rred in the past or will occur in the foreseeable future that have added fuel 

and increased fire hazard within the boundary of this planning area. These projects are preg, power line right-of-way clearing, roadside brushing and hazard tree 

s pre-commercial thinned is dependent on funding and could range from 

 Other projects have also occurred in the past or will occur in the foreseeable future that will 

reduce fuel and fire hazard within the boundary of this planning area. They are Lemolo Fire 

Hazard Reduction (1330 acres), Gigawat Timber Sale, and Bear Paw Timber Sale. In 

combinat

fuels treatment will reduce resulting slash to meet Umpqua National Forest Hazard Reduction 

Standards, prescribe burning treatments in this alternative and hazard reduction treatments will 

reduce threat of fire to Lemolo Resort. All three types of projects total approximately 2558 

acres, moving parts of the watershed towards the historical moderate-severity fire regime. 

Projects have occu

commercial thinnin

felling. 

The number of acre

zero to 600 acres. Pre-commercial thinning will increase the fuel levels in the watershed and 

will not meet forest hazard reduction standards but will improve health and vigor of the stand 

over the long term. Competition mortality will decrease over the next 50 years after precommercial thinning, therefore reducing potential fuel buildup of 4-8”diameter material within 

managed stands. 
114 Glossary Chapter Eight

3.4.8 ALTERNATIVE 5 

DIRECT EFFECTS 

This alternative will treat a total of 1536 acres; 1233 acres through timber harvest and 

material. The majority of the treated area will be converted to a fuel model 8, with some fuel 

model 11. Crown bulk densities and surface fuels will decrease, while 

crown base heights will increase. Ladder fuels will be significantly reduced through silvicultural 

subsequent slash treatment, and 303 acres prescribed fire treatment, silvicultural treatments 

exclude stands identified as having high recreational value. Harvest will create slash thus 

increase the fire hazard, this activity created slash will be treated within 6 months to two years 

after harvest. The fuel profile after fuel treatments will be reduced to 12-21 tons per acre of 0-8” 

model 5 and/or fuel 

and fuel treatments, including 384 acres on Bunker Hill. 

Approximately 89 acres will not receive harvest or fuel treatments on Bunker Hill. Fuels and 

fire hazard will continue to increase (over time) within stands not targeted for silvicultural and 

fuel treatments on Bunker Hill. Increases will be attributed to competition mortality, increased 

mortality from insects and disease due to overstocked conditions, and crown development. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

A wildland fire occurring under high fire danger fire weather conditions (the 90th percentile) on 

Bunker Hill would lurch along; moving 7 to 8 feet per minute in some areas and a little over 2 

feet per minute in other areas. A weighted average of the rate of spread for Bunker Hill 

following treatment in alternative 5 is 21⁄2 feet per minute. Rate of spread does not consider 

spreading by short or long range spotting or by material rolling down a slope and igniting spots. 

Fire behavior predictions using BehavePlus indicate overall tree mortality under the conditions 

A, 

south into the Lemolo Lake Recreation Composite, or north out of the Lemolo Lake Recreation 

Rate of spread as compared to size of fire on arrival and rate of fire line construction are used to 

predict fire size over time. 

 Predicted flame lengths vary from 1 to almost 5 feet, the weighted average flame length for the 

Bunker Hill area is 2.1. Flame lengths are a visual indicator of fire intensity, of BTU’s being 

released by the flaming edge of a fire, and are of crowning potential. Suppression by hand crews 

of fires exhibiting these predicted flame lengths can be successful. Individual tree torching may 

be expected, due to the high crown base height crown fire development is unlikely except for 

locals. 

described above averages 10 percent. 

A buffer of reduced fire hazard will be created along roads 2612 and 60, through silvicultural 

treatments and prescribed burning. This is north of the Lemolo area, north of the Kelsay Valley 

area, and west of the Bradley Creek drainage. This reduced fire hazard area improves the 

likelihood of preventing large fires from spreading west out of the OCRA, east into the OCR

Composite. Kelsay Valley trailhead and campground will have the fire hazard on the north side 

of the campground reduced, improving public safety in this area. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 115

Eleven and two tenths miles of road decommissioning may have an indirect adverse effect as it 

ess, and response time to wildland fires in the analysis area. 

Decommissioning roads may increase detection time, increase fire suppression response time, 

and some can be easily opened for vehicle access. 

relates to detection, acc

and decrease logistical support ability. Most of the roads that are proposed for decommissioning 

are not drivable now due to small trees and logs or rocks and berms in the road, however they 

can be used as walkways for firefighters 

Ponderosa pine will be established through planting and natural regeneration within units 3, 6, 

7, 12, 13, 25, and 33. These established younger cohorts will replace the mature and old growth 

ponderosa pine in the long term. Ponderosa pine is a fire tolerant species and can withstand 

periodic fire events, creating a more sustainable and resilient stand condition in the future. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

Silvicultural treatments and prescribed fire treatments will move the Lemolo Watershed towards 

jects have also occurred in the past or will occur in the foreseeable future that will 

reduce fuel and fire hazard within the boundary of this planning area. They are Lemolo Fire 

s of the watershed towards the historical moderate-severity fire regime. 

red in the past or will occur in the foreseeable future that have added fuel 

and increased fire hazard within the boundary of this planning area. These projects are preine right-of-way clearing, roadside brushing and hazard tree 

felling. 

 and 

will not meet forest hazard reduction standards but will improve health and vigor of the stand 

3.5

.5.2 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT 

the historical moderate-severity fire regime and decrease the risk of a large, high severity fire on 

Bunker Hill and within the watershed. 

Other pro

Hazard Reduction (1033 acres), Gigawat Timber Sale, and Bear Paw Timber Sale. In 

combination with the actions proposed in this alternative silvicultural treatments followed by 

fuels treatment will reduce resulting slash to meet Umpqua National Forest Hazard Reduction 

Standards, prescribe burning treatments in this alternative and hazard reduction treatments will 

reduce threat of fire to Lemolo Resort. All three types of projects total approximately 2589 

acres, moving part

Projects have occur

commercial thinning, power l

The number of acres pre-commercial thinned is dependent on funding and could range from 

zero to 600 acres. Pre-commercial thinning will increase the fuel levels in the watershed

over the long term. Competition mortality will decrease over the next 50 years after precommercial thinning, therefore reducing potential fuel buildup of 4-8”diameter material within 

managed stands. 

AIR QUALITY 

3

The affected environment for the air resource includes Roseburg (closest designated area) which 

is approximately 70 miles to the west and the following Class I air-sheds: Diamond Peak 

Wilderness, 9 miles to the northeast; Crater Lake National Park, 10 miles to the southeast. 
116 Glossary Chapter Eight

g sunlight, jet streams, oceans and 

vegetation influence the atmosphere. Most of the air that passes over the analysis area derives 

e Range and into the 

western Oregon valleys. 

sently fire management activities influencing air quality include suppression of 

wildfires and ignition of prescribed fire. Wildfires are managed with an appropriate suppression 

olled and extinguished within 24 hours. The result of this is 

negligible concerning visual air quality, with respiratory air quality being only a concern to the 

 

Although the Forest Service does not monitor air resources, it does provide smoke management 

ent, and smoke emissions as it relates to 

the proposed project and alternatives is located in the Fire and Fuels Analysis Report in 

3.5.3

ply to all aspects of the Clean Air Act by working in conjunction 

th the Oregon Department of Forestry to follow the Oregon Smoke Management Plan. A 

viding a unit description and planning all burning with the 

Oregon Department of Forestry. 

Under burns will be conducted when large fuel and duff moistures are high thus reducing 

ally be accomplished during or after frontal systems that provide 

favorable smoke dispersal when mixing is good. 

g and fall will have less impact on developed campsites such as the 

campgrounds in the Lemolo Composite. Dispersed and undeveloped campsites will receive little 

.5.4 A 1 (N ) 

Air is the mixture of usually invisible, odorless and tasteless gases that comprise the atmosphere 

surrounding the earth. A variety of natural conditions includin

from the Pacific Ocean, crosses the Coast Range, over the Umpqua and southern Willamette 

Valleys, and finally passes over the Cascade Range. Ocean winds generally push air over the 

forest, but there are occasions when east winds flow over the Cascad

Current Air Quality conditions were analyzed during the Lemolo and Diamond Lake Watershed 

Analysis. Pre

response and are usually contr

firefighter engaged in suppression activities. Prescribed fire activities have included 

underburning and pile burning of activity created fuels (Diamond Lake / Lemolo Lake 

Watershed Analysis, Chapter Four, Air Quality, pages 135). 

information to the state of Oregon that assists the state in monitoring air resources. Smoke 

management information is gathered for each planned prescribed burn. 

An in depth discussion of air quality, smoke managem

Appendix E. 

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

The Forest Service will com

wi

“permit” will be acquired by pro

emissions. Pile burning will generally be accomplished during the October to November period. 

Burning in the fall will gener

Burning during sprin

impact because they are primarily used during summer months and elk hunting season. Timing 

of pile burning will be closely monitored to minimize detrimental effect on dispersed camps 

during elk hunting season. 

3 LTERNATIVE O ACTION

DIRECT EFFECTS

The no action alternative will have no immediate or active effect on air quality. Wildfires will 

continue to produce smoke. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 117

 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

ribed burning is expected to produce fewer total emissions than 

wildland fire. The reasons for this include: (1) prescribed fires typically burn fewer acres than 

(A Desk Reference for NEPA Air 

Quality Analysis, chapter 3.1) 

d fire consumes on average 60 tons per acre (A Desk Reference for NEPA Air Quality 

alysis, Ch 3.1) and produces nearly a half of a ton of suspended particulates per acre burned, 

 the wildfire is based on the fuel, weather, and topography of where that 

wildland fire is burning. 

 Intrusions on air quality will be greater and last longer if a wildland fire occurred than if a 

prescribed fire occurred in the same area. In the short term, prescribed fire emissions will 

increase; however, over the long term as areas are treated wildland fire emissions will decrease. 

(Snell 2002) 

Properly executed presc

wildfires, (2) prescribed fires are managed under weather conditions that present a small risk of 

crowning, (3) prescribed fires are ignited under conditions of higher fuel moisture, which 

reduces the consumption of large woody material and duff. 

As an example, proposed unit 5 on Bunker Hill has a maximum predicted consumption of 13 

tons per acre and will produce less than two tenths of a ton of suspended particulates per acre 

treated (Fire and Fuels Analysis Report, Appendix E). The maximum size of unit 5 is 43 acres. 

A wildlan

An

the overall size of

C E UMULATIVE FFECTS

that 

 summer wildland fires have an impact in visibility during most summers. The recent 

re seasons of 1985, 1987, 1994, 1996, and 2002 have had the greatest impact on the local 

isibility within and view from the planning area. Regional prescribed fires in the southern and 

uth central Oregon area will continue to be evident during the spring in the form of drift 

.5.5

There are other activities planned or occurring within the Lemolo Analysis Area boundary 

have the potential to impact air quality. They are; Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction, Electric 

Salvage, Gigawat Timber Sale, and Bear Paw Timber Sale. 

 egional R

fi

v

so

smoke. 

3 ALTERNATIVE 2 

DIRECT EFFECTS 

 Prescribed fire activities associated with this alternative will produce an estimated 369 tons of 

total suspended particulate and 2355 tons of carbon monoxide over a period of 4 to 6 years. 

nstruction and log haul will produce particulates, the effect being dust 

on roadside vegetation and visible dust from roads of haul routes. 

Road construction or reco

 
118 Glossary Chapter Eight

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Smoke from under burns may be visible from the Lemolo Lake recreation area during the day of 

long term as areas are treated. (Snell 2002) 

the burn, and 0 to10 days following burning, smoke may be noticeable in Kelsay Valley 

Campground, Inlet Campground, East Lemolo Campground and Bunker Hill Campground. 

In the short term, prescribed fire emissions will increase. Wildland fire emissions will decrease 

over the 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

vities planned or occurring within the Lemolo Analysis Area boundary that 

have the potential to impact air quality. They are; Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction, Electric 

Particulate produced from this alternative will be in addition to the estimated 100-200 tons 

Regional summer wildland fires have an impact in visibility during most summers. The recent 

, 1987, 1994, 1996, and 2002 have had the greatest impact on the local 

visibility within and view from the planning area. Regional prescribed fires in the southern and 

.5.6 A 3 

There are other acti

Salvage, Gigawat Timber Sale. 

produced from these other projects. 

fire seasons of 1985

south central Oregon area will continue to be evident during the spring in the form of drift 

smoke. 

3 LTERNATIVE 

DIRECT EFFECTS 

Prescribed fire activities associated with this alternative will produce an estimated 260 tons of 

le dust from roads of haul routes 

total suspended particulate and 1651 tons of carbon monoxide over a period of 4 to 6 years. 

Road construction or reconstruction and log haul will produce particulates, the effect being dust 

on roadside vegetation and visib

INDIRECT EFFECTS

 Smoke from under burns may be visible from the Lemolo Lake recreation area during the day of 

the burn, and 0 to10 days following burning, smoke may be noticeable in Kelsay Valley 

Campground, Inlet Campground, East Lemolo Campground and Bunker Hill Campground. 

In the short term, prescribed fire emissions will increase. Wildland fire emissions will decrease 

over the long term as areas are treated. (Snell 2002) 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

 There are other activities planned or occurring within the Lemolo Analysis Area boundary that 

have the potential to impact air quality. They are; Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction, Electric 

Salvage, Gigawat Timber Sale. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 119

 Particulate produced from this alternative will be in addition to the estimated 100-200 tons 

produced from these other projects. 

ldland fires have an impact in visibility during most summers. The recent 

fire seasons of 1985, 1987, 1994, 1996, and 2002 have had the greatest impact on the local 

.5.7

DIRECT EFFECTS 

Regional summer wi

visibility within and view from the planning area. Regional prescribed fires in the southern and 

south central Oregon area will continue to be evident during the spring in the form of drift 

smoke. 

3 ALTERNATIVE 4 

Prescribed fire activities associated with this alternative would produce an estimated 220 tons of 

ticulates, the effect being dust 

on roadside vegetation and visible dust from roads of haul routes. 

total suspended particulate and 1,421 tons of carbon monoxide over a period of 4 to 6 years. 

Road construction or reconstruction and log haul will produce par

INDIRECT EFFECTS

 Smoke from under burns may be visible from the Lemolo Lake recreation area during the day of 

the burn, and 0 to10 days following burning, smoke may be noticeable in Kelsay Valley 

Campground, Inlet Campground, East Lemolo Campground and Bunker Hill Campground. 

In the short term, prescribed fire emissions will increase. Wildland fire emissions will decrease 

over the long term as areas are treated. (Snell 2002) 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

ldland fires have an impact in visibility during most summers. The recent 

3.5.8

 There are other activities planned or occurring within the Lemolo Analysis Area boundary that 

have the potential to impact air quality. They are; Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction, Electric 

Salvage, Gigawat Timber Sale. 

 Particulate produced from this alternative will be in addition to the estimated 100-200 tons 

produced from these other projects. 

Regional summer wi

fire seasons of 1985, 1987, 1994, 1996, and 2002 have had the greatest impact on the local 

visibility within and view from the planning area. Regional prescribed fires in the southern and 

south central Oregon area will continue to be evident during the spring in the form of drift 

smoke. 

ALTERNATIVE 5 

DIRECT EFFECTS 

 Prescribed fire activities associated with this alternative would produce an estimated 281 tons of 

total suspended particulate and 1785 tons of carbon monoxide over a period of 4 to 6 years. 
120 Glossary Chapter Eight

Road construction or reconstruction and log haul will produce particulates, the effect being dust 

on roadside vegetation and visible dust from roads of haul routes. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Smoke from under burns may be visible from the Lemolo Lake recreation area during the day of 

long term as areas are treated. (Snell 2002) 

the burn, and 0 to10 days following burning, smoke may be noticeable in Kelsay Valley 

Campground, Inlet Campground, East Lemolo Campground and Bunker Hill Campground. 

In the short term, prescribed fire emissions will increase. Wildland fire emissions will decrease 

over the 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

 There are other activities planned or occurring within the Lemolo Analysis Area boundary that 

have the potential to impact air quality. They are; Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction, Electric 

Regional summer wildland fires have an impact in visibility during most summers. The recent 

6, and 2002 have had the greatest impact on the local 

visibility within and view from the planning area. Regional prescribed fires in the southern and 

.6

3.6.2

characterizati e LAA, are listed in 

Appendix J u i m porated 

into the cumu s

EROSION PROCESSES FOR THE LA

Salvage, Gigawat Timber Sale. 

Particulate produced from this alternative will be in addition to the estimated 100-200 tons 

produced from these other projects. 

fire seasons of 1985, 1987, 1994, 199

south central Oregon area will continue to be evident during the spring in the form of drift 

smoke. 

3 GEOLOGY / SOILS 

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

The Soil Resource Inventory (SRI) describes the soil types present within the Lemolo 5th Level 

Watershed. Soil consociations (separate soils), soil complexes, and physical and textural 

ons of the soil resource, which define the soil resource of th

nder the h

lative effe

eading “So

cts analysi

l Resou

. 

rce Land-types”. This infor ation was incor

A

 The affected environme ed on processes evaluated in this DEIS is defined as 

Bunker Hill and Lemolo as the a propos rvest, f atment, and 

subsoiling throughout the LAA. 

 Within the affected environment an erosion risk class was determined for all soils. The factors 

e ed pe ect m five erosion risk classes seen in table 

13. Risk classes were then tabulated for the soils within the 6th Level Sub-watersheds of 

Bradley Creek, Calamut Creek, Lake Creek, North Umpqua Headwaters and Thirsty Creek. Of 

nt relat to erosi

Lake, well as reas of ed ha uels tre

of soil textur combin with slo and asp akeup the 
Chapter Eight Glossary 121

concern with respect to erosion are risk classes 2-4; these classifications have erosion 

characteristics such as, earth flow, rotational slumps, turbidity hazard, and high surface erosion. 

Table 6 – Soil by Risk Class Within Each Sub-watershed 

Erosion 

Risk Class 

Bradley 

Creek 

(acres) 

Calamut 

Lake 

(acres) 

Lake 

Creek 

(acres) 

North Umpqua 

Headwaters 

(acres) 

Thirsty 

Creek 

(acres) 

Total Within 

Lemolo PA 

(acres) 

0 13.3 0.5 13.7 21.4 0 48.9 

1 11383.9 11041.2 21825.3 13972.5 15226.9 73449.8 

2 122.6 404.5 1325.1 46.4 48.1 1946.8 

3 35.3 82.5 246.1 268.2 34.9 666.9 

4 0 0 0 0 0 0 

Total 11555.1 11528.6 23410.2 14308.6 15309.9 76112.5 

Percent of 

classes 2-4 1.4% 4.2% 6.7% 2.2% 0.5% 

d risk of earth flow, rotational slumps, turbidity hazard, and high 

face erosion. 

IL PRODUC ITY

The percent of risk class 2-4 are low for the LAA and as seen in table 13. None of the 

watersheds exceed 7% elevate

sur

SO TIV

3.6.3

 The affected environment related to soil productivity and soil biotic communities falls within 

areas of proposed harvest, fuels treatment, roadwork, and subsoiling. Additionally this 

information was incorporated into the cumulative effects of this proposal and others located 

within the LAA. 

 Professional judgment was used to evaluate the productivity of existing and proposed harvest 

units, or roads within the LAA in relation to soil productivity. Factors for the affected 

environment which could be altered by the proposed project are: loss of organic matter, increase 

of soil tilth, soil alteration due to severe burning, soil displacement, and soil compaction. A 

description of soil productivity concerns and proposed activities to benefit soil productivity is 

found in Appendix J – Soils. 

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

ANALYSIS OF EROSION AND SEDIMENT ON BUNKER HILL

Forest soils normally have low erosion rates, unless there is an event that accelerates the rate of 

erosion. Conditions that promote accelerated erosion are, but not limited to; mass wasting, 

wildfire, roads and timber harvesting operations. 

wo years, except 

in areas with severe compaction. The same can be assumed for wildfire and prescribed fire 

 The effect of timber harvest on erosion is proportional to the amount of effective ground cover 

left on site, slope of the unit, slope of the buffer to riparian, and the amount of compaction left 

post-harvest. Based on professional observation in other harvest areas, unless excessive soil 

compaction is present (or created), the erosion from harvest operations tends to last only until 

vegetation covers exposed ground. The lack of vegetation usually lasts one or t

operations. Following a burn, the growth of vegetation covers the soil surface with plant and 

litter, reducing potential erosion. Robichaud and Brown (1999) reported erosion rates dropped 
122 Glossary Chapter Eight

from 40 Mg ha-1 the first year after a fire to 2.3 Mg ha-1 the second year, and 1 Mg ha-1 the 

third year. These findings indicate that the risk of erosion is greatly reduced over time provided 

vegetation quickly recovers the site. It is in the window of opportunity for erosion observed by 

Robichaud and Brown, which has the greatest effect on erosion risk. When this window of 

opportunity is open, the magnitude of potential erosion depends on the climate. If the year 

A detailed description of WEPP, assumptions, constants, and variables used for this analysis are 

listed in Appendix J, as are outputs for each of the proposed Bunker Hill harvest units. WEPP 

results were generated from representative transects within each unit. The generation of erosion 

and sediment is dependent upon the constants of soil texture, percent slope, and the variable of 

rain intensity. Precipitation or rain was modeled for Bunker Hill using Rock:Clime data from 

the Toketee Falls weather station to fit the Bunker Hill site (Appendix J). 

 Bunker Hill has four streams associated with the units on that hillside. Three of these streams 

are related to the proposed units 1, 2, 3 and 4 and are an un-definable variable in this analysis. 

Identified by Brady Dodd (Hydrologist) in field reconnaissance of this proposal, these streams 

go subsurface before connecting to Lemolo Lake. Because these streams go subsurface, they are 

not expected to contribute sediment to the analysis; therefore, soil losses from these units will 

be considered forth stream, associated with units 5 and 32 can contribute flow to Lemolo Lake 

during an unknown level of rain. There is no difference in erosion and sediment rates for 

proposed units 5 and 32, due to topography efore outputs from these units were relegated to 

sediment results. 

following disturbance is dry, then the likelihood of accelerated erosion is low. If the 

precipitation during this time is high, then there soil erosion can be greatly increased. 

The Water Erosion Prediction Program (WEPP) was used to predict the consequences of each 

alternative with respect to the soil resource on Bunker Hill for harvest units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 32. 

The analysis modeled the potential amounts of erosion and subsequent sediment into Lemolo 

Lake. Given the topography of the area modeled, erosion and sediment did not have different 

outputs and therefore results displayed in this analysis are for sediment alone. 

; ther
Chapter Eight Glossary 123

Figure 1 - Averaged amounts of erosion for each alternative on Units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 

& 32 with regard to precipitation events. 

Alt

#1

Alt

#2

Alt

#3

Alt Alt

#4 #5

Year 1.5

Year 6

Year 30

0.00

1.00

2.00

3.00

4.00

5.00

6.00

7.00

8.00

9.00

ton/ac

Erosion Rates by Precipitation Event

Erosion rates in Figure 8, shows all alternatives producing low erosion rates (<10 t/ac/yr) for a 

precipitation level of < 15-year (<59.34 inches); with only alternative #2 showing a 2%

difference above no action alternatives or a 0.1 t/ac increase over the rest. The increased erosion 

occurs only with precipitation at a 15-year level. When the precipitation level is > 30-year

(>67.91 inches), all alternatives maintain a moderate erosion risk class (10.1-25 t/ac); with 

alternatives #2, #4 and #5 showing a increases over the no activity alternatives on Bunker Hill. 

The 30-year precipitation level shows a minor increase for alternative #2 with a 5% difference 

or 0.4 t/ac over the no activity alternative; alternative ##4 with a 1% difference or 0.1 t/ac over 

the no activity alternative, #5 with a 2% difference or 0.2 t/ac over the no activity alternative. 
124 Glossary Chapter Eight

Figure 2 - Averaged amounts of sediment for each alternative on Units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 32 with 

regard to precipitation events. 

Alt

#1

Alt

#2

Alt

#3

Alt

#4

Alt

#5

Year 1.5

Year 6

Year 30

0.00

0.20

0.40

0.60

0.80

1.00

1.20

ton/ac

Sediment Rates by Precipitation Event

Sediment rates in Figure 9, shows all alternatives producing moderate sedimentation rates (<0-

0.15 t/ac/yr) for a precipitation level of < 15-year (<59.34 inches), with no difference between 

alternatives. When the precipitation level is > 30-year (>67.91 inches), all alternatives are rated 

as very high sediment risk class (1.01-3.00 t/ac). At the 30-year precipitation level, only

alternative #2 shows an increase; this change is a 3% or 0.03 t/ac increase over the no activity

alternative on Bunker Hill. 

The potential degradation of the soil resources is caused to a small degree by the proposed 

harvest and fuel treatment activities on Bunker Hill. These conclusions can be transferred to the 

rest of the watershed, as the erosion and sediment analysis for Bunker Hill is the worst-case 

scenario for the planning area. These results are dependent upon the exclusion of wildfire, 

within the analysis area. Wildfire will elevate erosion and sediment volumes at least ten times 

for any precipitation level modeled. 

SOIL PRODUCTIVITY

The most common types of detrimental disturbances affecting forest soils are compaction, 

puddling, displacement, erosion, severe burning, and the loss of the surface organic layer. 

These disturbances can be attributed to the effects of timber harvest activities such as ground 

skidding of logs, mechanical piling of slash, burning of slash, and construction of roads. These 

detrimental disturbances can affect long term site productivity by reducing the soils capacity to 

sustain existing growth of a particular plant or plant community. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 125

 Chapter Two of this document outlines best management practices and mitigating measures that 

minimize direct, indirect, and cumulative soil impacts within activity areas. These practices and 

measures maintain long-term site productivity within acceptable levels in accordance with 

current management standards and guidelines. Current management standards and guidelines 

state that the cumulative combined total amount of unacceptable soil condition within an 

activity area should not exceed 20%. An unacceptable level of compaction on pumice soil is 

defined as an increase in bulk density of 20% or more over the natural undisturbed bulk density. 

An unacceptable level of displacement is defined as the horizontal removal by mechanical 

means of 50 percent or more of the A1 or AC horizons from 100 square feet and where one 

dimension is at least 5 feet (an area at least 5 by 20 feet). Unacceptable puddling is defined as 

the physical change to soil structure that results when traffic ruts and molds a soil to a depth of 

6 inches or more. Severe burning, which is defined as unacceptable, occurs when the surface 

soil has significantly changed color (usually more red) and the next half-inch contains 

blackened or charred organic matter due to soil heating. Operating within standard and 

guidelines assures that the effects on the soil resource are not significant within the area of 

activity. Monitoring of past harvest activity at Diamond Lake Ranger District has shown these 

practices to be effective in meeting current standards and guidelines. 

Table 7 – Direct and Cumulative Detrimental Soil Condition by Alternative 

Alternative 

# 

Existing 

Detrimental 

Soil 

Condition 

within LAA 

(acres) 

Existing 

Detrimental 

Soil 

Condition 

within LAA

(%) 

Area of 

Proposed 

Activity 

(acres) 

Detrimental 

Soil 

Condition 

within Area 

of Proposed 

Activity 

(acres) 

Detrimental 

Soil 

Condition 

within Area 

of Proposed 

Activity 

(%) 

Cumulative 

Detrimental 

Soil 

Condition 

within LAA

(%) 

1 2212 3 0 0 0 3 

2 2337 3 1579 148 8 3 

3 2289 3 636 99 12 3 

4 2309 3 905 119 11 3 

5 2309 3 1233 119 8 3 

 An evaluation of the effects on the soil resource was predicted for each alternative based on 

estimated detrimental soil disturbance. The evaluation used the following assumptions: Skyline 

and helicopter yarding and associated fuels treatment will produce 1-2% unacceptable levels of 

soil disturbance; loader yarding and associated fuels treatment will produce 10% unacceptable 

levels of soil disturbance; mechanized yarding and associated fuels treatment will produce 15% 

unacceptable levels of soil disturbance; and new road and quarry construction will produce 

100% disturbance for the acres involved. This analysis showed that all alternatives could meet 

the regional Standard and Guideline “the combined amount of unacceptable soil condition 

(detrimental compaction, displacement, puddling or severely burned) within an activity area are 

less than 20 percent.” No alternative exceeds 12 percent cumulative detrimental effects within 

harvest units or exceeds 3% for the planning area. Table 14 summarizes the direct and 

cumulative detrimental soil condition under each alternative, adjusted for the benefit of 

proposed subsoiling treatments. 
126 Glossary Chapter Eight

3.6.4 ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) 

DIRECT EFFECTS

 

 No new sources of accelerated soil erosion, soil compaction, puddling, displacement, severe 

burning, or loss of surface organic matter will occur because no activities are proposed. There 

will be minor occurrences of soil compaction; puddling or displacement caused by falling dead 

trees, animal wallows, or recreation activities. Low amounts of surface erosion (0-0.15 t/ac/yr) 

will occur naturally due to the forces of wind, rain, and gravity. 

 Accelerated erosion in areas of previous activity will continue to occur, though most 

occurrences are likely to occur with high precipitation or stand replacing fire combined with 

above average precipitation. An estimated 264 sub-soiling acres remain untreated through this 

alternative. Soil productivity will continue to be significantly reduced on these acres. These 

areas will remain in a condition that is unacceptable for use in growing and maintaining healthy 

trees and for water infiltration. 

3.6.5 ALTERNATIVE 2

DIRECT EFFECTS

 Accelerated soil erosion, soil compaction, puddling, displacement, severe burning, or loss of 

surface organic matter will occur through proposed activities and contribute to detrimental soil 

conditions. The tabulation of soil left in detrimental condition was corrected by subtracting soil 

restoration (subsoiling) from the total. When combined these activities will create 148 acres or 

8% detrimental soil conditions, within the proposed harvest units. The amount of activity area 

left in detrimental soil conditions (table 14), therefore meets the current standard and guideline 

of 20% change in the soil resource. However, leaving these detrimental conditions will result in 

reduced soil productivity for parts of the proposed harvest units, and will contribute to the 

legacy soil compaction within the watershed. Accelerated erosion will likely not be of a 

measurable level, as indicated by the WEPP analysis on Units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 32. Low amounts 

of surface erosion (0-0.15 t/ac/yr) will occur naturally due to the forces of wind, rain, and 

gravity, and those areas of harvest. Any erosion occurring before vegetative reestablishment 

will be associated with periods of high precipitation and not driven by harvest activities. 

Leaving 65%-85% effective ground on areas proposed for harvest activity would minimize 

surface soil loss from erosion. Accelerated erosion in sub soiled areas may have minor increases 

dependent upon topography and establishment of vegetative cover soon after treatment. 

tions and decommissioned roads. Approximately 21 acres will be decommissioned 

roads. Subsoiling treatments on 72 of these acres are dependent on appropriated restoration 

funding. 

Soils will be decompacted on an approximately 285 acres through subsoiling operations within 

old planta
Chapter Eight Glossary 127

3.6.6 ALTERNATIVE 3 

DIRECT EFFECTS

Accelerated soil erosion, soil compaction, puddling, displacement, severe burning, or loss of 

surface organic matter will occur through proposed activities and contribute to detrimental soil 

conditions. The tabulation of soil left in detrimental condition was corrected by subtracting soil 

restoration (subsoiling) from the total. When combined these activities will create 99 acres or 

12% detrimental soil conditions, within the proposed harvest units. The amount of activity area 

left in detrimental soil conditions (table 14), therefore meets the current standard and guideline 

of 20% change in the soil resource. However leaving these detrimental conditions will result in 

reduced soil productivity for parts of the proposed harvest units, and will contribute to the 

legacy soil compaction within the watershed. Accelerated erosion will likely not be of a 

measurable level, as indicated by the WEPP analysis on Units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 32. Low amounts 

of surface erosion (0-0.15 t/ac/yr) will occur naturally due to the forces of wind, rain, and 

gravity, and those areas of harvest. Any erosion occurring before vegetative reestablishment 

will be associated with periods of high precipitation and not driven by harvest activities. 

Leaving 65%-85% effective ground on areas proposed for harvest activity would minimize 

surface soil loss from erosion. Accelerated erosion in sub soiled areas may have minor increases 

 be decompacted on an approximately 285 acres through subsoiling operations within 

 plantations decommissioned roads. Approximately 21 acres will be decommissioned 

treatments on 243 of these acres are dependent on appropriated restoration 

funding. 

.6.7

dependent upon topography and establishment of vegetative cover soon after treatment. 

Soils will

old and

roads. Subsoiling 

3 ALTERNATIVE 4 

DIRECT EFFECTS

Accelerated soil erosion, soil compaction, puddling, displacement, severe burning, or loss of 

surface organic matter will occur through proposed activities and contribute to detrimental soil 

conditions. The tabulation of soil left in detrimental condition was corrected by subtracting soil 

restoration (subsoiling) from the total. When combined these activities will create 119 acres or 

11% detrimental soil conditions, within the proposed harvest units. The amount of activity area 

left in detrimental soil conditions (table 14), therefore meets the current standard and guideline 

of 20% change in the soil resource. However leaving these detrimental conditions will result in 

reduced soil productivity for parts of the proposed harvest units, and will contribute to the 

legacy soil compaction within the watershed. Accelerated erosion will likely not be of a 

measurable level, as indicated by the WEPP analysis on Units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 32. Low amounts 

of surface erosion (0-0.15 t/ac/yr) will occur naturally due to the forces of wind, rain, and 

gravity, and those areas of harvest. Any erosion occurring before vegetative reestablishment 

will be associated with periods of high precipitation and not driven by harvest activities. 

Leaving 65%-85% effective ground on areas proposed for harvest activity would minimize 

surface soil loss from erosion. Accelerated erosion in sub soiled areas may have minor increases 

dependent upon topography and establishment of vegetative cover soon after treatment. 
128 Glossary Chapter Eight

 Soils will be decompacted on an approximately 285 acres through subsoiling operations within 

old plantations and decommissioned roads. Approximately 21 acres will be decommissioned 

ents on 239 of these acres are dependent on appropriated restoration 

funding. 

3.6.8 A

roads. Subsoiling treatm

LTERNATIVE 5 

DIRECT EFFECTS

Accelerated soil erosion, soil compaction, puddling, displacement, severe burning, or loss of 

surface organic matter will occur through proposed activities and contribute to detrimental soil 

conditions. The tabulation of soil left in detrimental condition was corrected by subtracting soil 

restoration (subsoiling) from the total. When combined these activities will create 119 acres or 

8% detrimental soil conditions, within the proposed areas of activity. The amount of activity 

area left in detrimental soil conditions (table 14), therefore meets the current standard and 

guideline of 20% change in the soil resource. However leaving these detrimental conditions will 

result in reduced soil productivity for parts of the proposed harvest units, and will contribute to 

the legacy soil compaction within the watershed. Accelerated erosion will likely not be of a 

measurable level, as indicated by the WEPP analysis on Units 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 32. Low amounts 

of surface erosion (0-0.15 t/ac/yr) will occur naturally due to the forces of wind, rain, and 

gravity, and those areas of harvest. Any erosion occurring before vegetative reestablishment 

t upon topography and establishment of vegetative cover soon after treatment. 

Soils will be decompacted on an approximately 285 acres through subsoiling operations within 

ecommissioned roads. Approximately 20 acres will be decommissioned 

roads. Subsoiling treatments on 243 of these acres are dependent on appropriated restoration 

3.6.9

will be associated with periods of high precipitation and not driven by harvest activities. 

Leaving 65%-85% effective ground on areas proposed for harvest activity would minimize 

surface soil loss from erosion. Accelerated erosion in sub soiled areas may have minor increases 

dependen

old plantations and d

funding. 

ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, 4 AND 5 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Legacy detrimental soil conditions will continue on a slow recovery, aided by tree root growth, 

the heaving from soil wetting, frost, and erosion of loosened soil from the area of compaction. 

 thirty plus years in detrimental condition illustrate the duration 

 With little relief to the soil density of previously impacted sites, the 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

Subsoiling units that are

pathways of this process.

losses to surface organic matter will continue on compacted skid trails within plantations. 

Untreated soils will continue to be considered unacceptable as a growth medium for trees and 

because of poor water infiltration rates, will not be in an optimum condition to accumulate and 

decompose organic matter into the soil. 

Other projects have also occurred in the past or will occur in the foreseeable futures that will 

affect erosion, sediment and soil productivity within the LAA. They include the Lemolo Fire 
Chapter Eight Glossary 129

Hazard Reduction Project, Electric Salvage timber sale, and the Gigawatt and Bearpaw timber 

ned projects are included in the analysis of detrimental soil conditions and will 

not have a cumulative effect with regard to soil productivity as shown in table 14. 

3.7

.7.2 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

FISH HABITAT

sales. The mentio

FISHERIES 

3

Fish habitat in the analysis area can be divided into four primary units, consisting of two large 

lakes and two stream systems; Diamond Lake, Lemolo Reservoir, and the North Umpqua River 

and Lake Creek stream systems. 

Lakes

 Diamond Lake and Lemolo Lake are by far the two largest fish bearing lakes in the analysis 

area. Diamond Lake is a large natural lake, approximately 3,200 acres in size. Diamond Lake is 

shallow for its size, with an average depth of approximately 24 feet. Lake Creek is created by 

the Diamond Lake outflow. Lemolo Reservoir is created by the Lemolo I diversion dam. At full 

pool, the reservoir is approximately 435 acres in size, with an average depth of approximately 

27 feet. A detailed discussion of Lemolo Reservoir and Diamond Lake is available in the 

Lemolo/Diamond Lake Watershed Analysis. 

aring lakes are also present; Pit Lakes #1 and #2, Maidu Lake, and Linda, 

Stream Systems

Six smaller fish be

Connie, and Calamut Lakes. Pit Lakes #1 and #2 are former gravel pits developed as small 

lakes. Maidu Lake is a natural, spring fed sub-alpine lake, approximately 30 acres in size. The 

outflow from Maidu Lake is the origin of the North Umpqua River. Linda and Connie Lakes are 

small, natural sub-alpine lakes. Calamut Lake is a natural sub-alpine lake, approximately 30 

acres in size. 

summer to winter flow) and slow storm runoff response in contrast to the more rapidly 

cades. The younger volcanic bedrock of the High Cascades has high 

porosity and permeability because of a common occurrence of joint and fracture patterns that 

There are approximately 33 miles of fish bearing stream habitat in the analysis area. Streams 

currently utilized by fish are the North Umpqua River, Spring River, Bradley Creek, Warrior 

Creek, Tolo Creek, Poole Creek, Lake Creek, Thielsen Creek, and Silent Creek. Brief 

descriptions of the habitat contained in each stream are provided below. For detailed 

descriptions, see Appendix A of the Lemolo/Diamond Lake Watershed Analysis and Appendix 

D (Watershed and Fisheries) located in this document. 

The Affected Environment streams are in the High Cascade Province. The stream flow 

characteristics of this province include smaller annual flow fluctuations (i.e.; difference between 

responding Western Cas

influence this type of flow response. This bedrock condition provides the opportunity for rapid 

water infiltration and migration both vertically and horizontally and water storage over a wide 

area in the High Cascades. This underlying geology is the controlling factor in the development 
130 Glossary Chapter Eight

of the High Cascade aquifer (Diamond Lake – Lemolo Lake Watershed Analysis, 1998; 

Sherrod, 1995; Ingebritsen, 1994). This setting also influences a generally low stream density. 

North Umpqua River

The North Umpqua River upstream from Lemolo Lake has a main stem length of approximately 

 from Maidu 

Lake. 

Stream channel types range from a low gradient “E” type (Rosgen, 1996) in the lower 3.2 miles 

9.8 miles. The river originates as the outflow from Maidu Lake. Stream flow at the Lemolo 

Lake inlet was measured at 406 cubic feet per second (cfs) on August 10, 1997. Summer water 

temperatures are cold throughout most of the channel main stem, typically ranging from 6-

14oC, with temperatures above 15oC being rare to very rare. However, the upper mile of 

stream can experience summer water temperatures considerably above this range, with a 

temperature of 24oC recorded in August, 1997. The warm temperatures in this upper stream 

segment are most likely a natural result of the river origin as an epilimnetic outflow

of stream, transitioning to a “C” type in the mid reaches, and finally to “B” and “A” types in the 

upper third of the channel main stem. The occurrence of instream large woody material is at 

fully functional levels throughout the low to mid reaches, with somewhat high levels present in 

the upper half of the channel main stem. The pattern of pool frequency is unusual in the channel 

main stem; in that pool frequency is inversely proportional to woody debris frequency. Pool 

frequency ranges from low in the lower reaches to very low in the upper reaches. 

Spring River

Spring River originates from a large spring complex that produces the vast majority of the 

ter emerging from the spring source is cold, approximately 5oC. The water 

warms considerably, most likely due to a very high width/depth ratio, in the short 1.0 mile 

stream flow. Wa

channel length during the summer (to 10.74oC in August, 1997). The Spring River stream 

channel is classified as a “B” channel type. Spring River is believed to be an important 

spawning area for brown trout and kokanee. Both species are known to enter the Spring River to 

spawn, and juvenile rearing is also likely to occur. The preference for spawning in Spring River 

is most likely due to a combination of stable flow, extensive deposits of spawning sized gravel, 

appropriate water temperature, and other factors. 

Bradley Creek

 Bradley Creek has a channel length of approximately four miles, and is a tributary to the North 

Umpqua River. Discharge was measured at 20.5 cfs in late September, 1996. Summer water 

temperatures are cold, and ranged from 4-9oC during late August/early September, 1996. The 

lower three miles of stream are classified as an “E” channel. Pool frequency throughout the 

stream is moderate, with moderate to extensive amounts of glide habitat also present in some, 

particularly the lower, portions of the stream. Large woody debris levels are high throughout the 

stream, and, combined with extensive undercut banks, creates good habitat complexity. 

Warrior Creek

Warrior Creek has a channel length of over three miles, and is a tributary to Bradley Creek. 

Discharge was measured at approximately 10 cfs in August, 1997. Summer water temperatures 
Chapter Eight Glossary 131

are cold throughout the stream length, measured at 8-9oC during August, 1997. Pool frequency 

is low in the lower reach of the stream, increasing to a moderate level in the upper reach. The 

stream channel is predominately a “B” type, with inclusions of “E” and “C”, in the lower reach, 

transitioning to an “E” type in the upper reach. 

Tolo Creek

 Tolo Creek has a channel length of approximately two miles, and is a tributary to the North 

Umpqua River. Discharge was measured at 6.5 cfs in August, 1997. Stream channel 

morphology is variable, with most stream segments classified as “B” or “C” channel types. 

Much of the channel profile is stair stepped, with steep channel sections followed by lower 

gradient sections. Channel was higher in the low gradient sections, and decreased in the high 

gradient sections. Pool frequency is somewhat low, with large woody debris and boulders being 

the principal pool creating features. 

 Poole Creek

Poole Creek has a channel length of approximately 1.2 miles, and is a tributary to Lemolo 

Reservoir. Discharge was measured at 2.1 cfs in August, 1997. The lower half of the stream is a 

low gradient, high sinuosity “E” channel. Channel gradient increases to over 10% and sinuosity 

decreases markedly in the upper half of the channel, with the channel type transitioning to “B”, 

and then “C” channel types. The stream channel is dominated by riffle habitat, with only about 

25% of the stream classified as pool habitat. However, much of the channel is narrow and deep, 

with poorly defined hydraulic controls making delineation of pools difficult during stream 

survey. 

Lake Creek

Lake Creek has a channel length of approximately 11.6 miles. Lake Creek originates as an 

w from Diamond Lake, and empties into Lemolo Reservoir. Due to the origin 

 an epilimnetic outflow from Diamond Lake, Lake Creek naturally contains 

k

epilimnetic outflo

of Lake Creek as

warmer water than is typical of streams in the area. Water temperatures as high as 23oC were 

measured during August, 1996. Stream habitat is fairly consistent as the stream passes primarily 

through low gradient topography. Channel types are typically “E” and “C”, with some “B” 

channel present in a canyon dominated reach near Diamond Lake. Pool frequency is low to very 

low throughout the stream. Large woody debris frequency ranged from marginally adequate to 

very high for High Cascades stream types. A considerable amount of stable, hydraulically 

functioning woody debris was present in size classes smaller than what is classified as large 

woody debris. 

Thielsen Cree

me inclusions of “B” channel type. The 

upper 2-3 miles of channel are dominated by “B” channel type, with some inclusions of “E” 

e headwaters. Large woody debris frequency is high in the lower reaches of the 

 Thielsen Creek has a channel length of approximately 12 miles, and is a tributary to Lake 

Creek. Discharge was measured at 6.6 cfs during August, 1997. Summer stream temperatures 

are generally cold (5-9oC) with temperatures above 10°C occurring rarely. The lower 7-8 miles 

of stream are predominantly “E” channel type, with so

channel near th
132 Glossary Chapter Eight

stream, and declining to a moderate level in the upper reaches. Woody debris appears to be the 

dominant pool creating feature throughout the stream. 

Silent Creek

Silent Creek has a channel length of approximately two miles, and is a tributary to Diamond 

Lake. Summer water temperatures are cold, typically ranging from 5-8°C. Discharge was 

measured in August, 1997 at 30 cfs. The stream channel is classified as a “C” channel type, with 

inclusions of “E” type for the entire length surveyed. 

FISH SPECIES

The analysis area contains six species of fish; brown trout (Salmo trutta), rainbow trout 

(Oncorhynchus mykiss), brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis), kokanee (Oncorhynchus nerka 

kennerlyi), tui chub (Gila bicolor), and golden shiner (Notemigonus crysoleucas). Of the six 

species, five are introduced exotics; brown trout, brook trout, kokanee, tui chub, and golden 

shiner. Rainbow trout have also been introduced, but a native strain may have been present. It 

has not yet, and may never be, determined whether any native fish species were present in the 

analysis area. 

rth Umpqua River and approximately 11.5 miles in Lake Creek. Brown trout spawning 

ved in Spring River. Rainbow trout are present in Diamond Lake, Lemolo 

all of Lake Creek. Brook trout are present in Lemolo Reservoir, Pit Lakes #1 and 

The general life histories of the species currently present in the analysis area are described 

 Brown trout are present in Lemolo Reservoir, Lake Creek, and the North Umpqua River. 

Brown trout distribution extends upstream from Lemolo Reservoir for approximately six miles 

in the No

has been obser

Reservoir, and 

#2, Calamut Lake, Connie Lake, Linda Lake, Maidu Lake, the North Umpqua River from the 

origin at Maidu Lake to Lemolo Reservoir, Tolo, Bradley and Warrior Creeks (North Umpqua 

River tributaries), intermittently in Lake Creek, Thielsen Creek (a Lake Creek tributary), and 

Poole Creek. Kokanee reside in Lemolo Reservoir only, but do enter the lower reach of the 

North Umpqua River and Spring River to spawn. Tui chub are present in Diamond Lake, Silent 

Creek, Lake Creek, Lemolo Reservoir and possibly Pit Lake #2. A small population of golden 

shiners is present in Diamond Lake. 

below. 

Brown Trout

Brown trout are native to Western Europe and have been widely introduced in the United 

States. Life histories vary from resident, fluvial, adfluvial, to anadromous. In Europe, both 

anadromous and non-anadromous populations are present. Most populations in North America 

are non-anadromous. Brown trout are primarily insectivores, but larger fish can become highly 

piscivorous. Spawning occurs in the fall or early winter, with offspring emerging from the Redd 

in late winter or spring. Adfluvial fish may live as long as 10 years. 

 Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout are native to most Pacific Northwest Rivers and streams, but were not 

historically as widely distributed as cutthroat trout. Kamloops rainbows are relatively long 
Chapter Eight Glossary 133

lived, piscivorous, grow to a large size, and generally live in lakes. Other non-anadromous 

strains generally live in streams and feed primarily on terrestrial and aquatic insects their entire 

lives, and do not grow to a large size. Spawning occurs in the spring, with the timing generally

consistent in a given stream, but can vary by a month or more among streams in the same 

e histories vary from resident, fluvial, adfluvial, to anadromous. Survival in redds is 

generally directly proportional to the amount of fine sediments present in the gravels. 

region. Lif

Brook Trout

Brook trout are native to northeastern North America. Brook trout have a short life span, rarely 

reaching four years of age. Brook trout spawn in the fall, usually in October, with declining 

water temperature and day length. Redds are usually built in gravel, but if ground water 

upwelling is present, spawning may occur on sandy substrate. Brook trout generally do not 

migrate far, but some anadromy has been reported. In streams, movement is generally minimal. 

Young migrate from the Redd to shallow water and establish territories, moving into deeper 

water as they grow. Dominant foods include plankton, terrestrial and aquatic insects, and fish. 

 Kokanee

Kokanee are a landlocked form of sockeye salmon. Kokanee naturally occur in lakes with and 

without anadromous sockeye. When found living sympatrically, kokanee populations generally 

exist independently from anadromous forms, and spawn earlier in the fall. Kokanee typically 

have a three year life cycle. The secondary sexual characteristics of kokanee are the same as 

those for sockeye, with bright red coloration at maturity. Spawning may occur along lake shores 

or in tributary streams. Distinct sub-populations may develop within a single lake. Diet is 

principally pelagic zooplankton and insects. Average adult length among populations varies 

from 7-12 inches. 

 Tui Chub

Tui chub are members of the minnow family and are native to the Owens and Mojave rivers, 

and several interior basins in Oregon and Nevada. Tui chub typically become sexually mature at 

three years of age. When in lacustrine systems, tui chub begin entering shallow shoreline area to 

spawn beginning in late May to early June. Spawning activity generally peaks in July and 

concludes in August. Nearly the entire population of tui chub may be present in shallow 

reline areas duri July. From September through April, adults return to deeper water. In 

integral part of the food chain and are heavily preyed upon by 

piscivorous fish. 

sho ng

some systems, tui chub are an 

Golden Shiner

The golden shiner is a member of the minnow family, is native to the eastern United States, and 

has been introduced west of the Rocky Mountains. Golden shiners prefer clear, weedy ponds. 

When found in large lakes, such as Diamond Lake, they tend to remain close to weed beds. 

Benthic broadcast spawning of adhesive eggs over weed beds occurs over an extended period 

during mid-summer. Diet consists primarily of planktonic crustaceans, but insects, mollusks, 

and algae may also be consumed. Adult length is generally 3-7 inches. 
134 Glossary Chapter Eight

3.7.3

al watershed parameters to determine the extent and intensity 

of effects. Effects can accumulate over time with increases in development, and over space with 

d timber harvest. 

ain (Naiman et al., 1992), increased dominance of 

 and organic matter storage capacity (Sullivan et al, 

cumulative effects, type-1 and type-2. Type-1 

cumulative effects, incremental changes, are not individually overwhelming, but compounded 

sult 

in changes in basic watershed processes. Recovery from these effects is not possible due to the 

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

Analysis of the environmental consequences of implementation of the Lemolo Watershed 

Project to fishery resources requires a consideration of the potential effects to the habitat of 

resident species within the analysis area and potential effects to the habitat of both resident and 

anadromous species downstream. The potential effects to fishery resources associated with 

implementation of the action Alternatives (Alternatives 2, 3, 4 & 5) are very similar. Due to this 

similarity, the potential impacts of the action Alternatives will be discussed as one. 

Cumulative effects analyses are complex. Factors such as scale, timing, and type of impacts 

interact with physical and biologic

increases in effects in a downstream direction. Watersheds and biological species have differing 

abilities to resist or recover from disturbance (Holling, 1973; Yount and Niemi, 1990), further 

complicating prediction of effects. Not surprisingly, demonstrating the cumulative effects of 

forest management on stream habitat has been difficult, except in the most severe cases (Bisson 

et al., 1992). While demonstrating specific linkages between causes and effects is difficult, there 

is considerable evidence that human alteration of the upper North Umpqua River system has 

resulted in impacts to fish habitat in many parts of the system. Cumulative impacts to the upper 

North Umpqua River system can generally be attributed to hydroelectric development and 

operation, road construction, timber harvest, and the introduction of exotic fish species. The 

Umpqua National Forest has limited ability to affect the extent of the existing hydroelectric 

development and operation, and the continued existence of exotic fish species. However, the 

Umpqua National Forest does have the ability to affect the extent of impacts resulting from road 

construction an

 Specific changes in stream habitat caused by forest management, varies with logging and 

reforestation practices, watershed geology, regional climate, extent of riparian zone protection, 

and other factors. In areas where the effects of forest management are studied, it appears that a 

trend toward simplification of stream channels and a loss of habitat complexity is present 

(Bisson et al., 1992). Habitat complexity is reduced through loss of hydraulic complexity, loss 

of connection between stream and flood pl

one substrate type, and the loss of sediment

1987). One component of complexity, connectedness of watershed components, is emerging in 

the scientific literature as a major component of ecosystem health (Naiman et al, 1992). 

Processes, which are hypothesized to be key in defining aquatic ecosystem health in the Pacific 

Northwest coastal ecoregion, are delivery and routing of water, sediment, and woody debris to 

the stream channel (Naiman et al., 1992), and are dependent on connectedness of ecosystem

components. 

Chamberlin et al. (1991) describe two types of

impacts will result in degraded fish habitat. Recovery from type-1 effects, are possible if the 

necessary management actions are taken. Type-2 cumulative effects, irreversible changes, re

long time requirements involved and/or permanent shifts in social or economic objectives that 

preclude the required management action. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 135

3.7.4

Forest management goals in matrix land result in an example of type-2 cumulative effects. A 

permanent social objective is in place that ensures continued fire suppression, timber harvest, 

and road maintenance and construction. This will result in permanent changes to watershed 

hydrology. Of relevance is whether these changes cause significant alteration of fish habitat. 

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) 

DIRECT / INDIRECT / CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Selection of the No Action alternative would allow current processes to continue, and no 

ysis (Umpqua NF, 1998). By far, the two current impacts to 

hery resources in the analysis area are the presence and operation of the Lemolo I dam and 

 tui chub in Diamond Lake. The construction of Lemolo Reservoir 

permanently converted stream habitat to a reservoir, and the designed style of reservoir 

ity problems. The stocking of rainbow trout 

in Diamond Lake has indirectly led to the introduction of the tui chub minnow into the lake. 

.7.5

changes to the existing direct, indirect, and cumulative effects to fish habitat would occur. 

The current impacts to fishery resources within the analysis area, those that would still be 

present if the “no action” alternative was selected, vary by location. The impacts from ongoing 

activities are briefly discussed below, and a detailed discussion can be found in the Diamond 

Lake/Lemolo Lake Watershed Anal

fis

reservoir, and the presence of

management has created some inherent water qual

The presence of the tui chub has led to substantial changes in the water quality of Diamond 

Lake, and may be affecting Lemolo Reservoir as well. The ongoing operation of the USFS 

permitted recreational activities at Diamond Lake also have some effects to water quality and 

fish habitat within the lake. 

Current timber harvest impacts are localized and limited in scope, and primarily affect only 

Lake Creek and Poole Creek. The Lake Creek and Poole Creek stream systems have also been 

affected somewhat by road construction and maintenance. Other recreational impacts include 

campground development and trail use, and can be locally high, but are low/moderate overall. 

Ongoing prescribed fire projects may be resulting in short duration (1-2 years), limited nutrient 

introduction with minimal effect. 

3 ALTERNATIVE 2, 3, 4 & 5

DIRECT, INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Under the action alternatives, no timber harvest activity is proposed within riparian reserves, 

and no direct effects to fish habitat would occur as a result of proposed timber harvest. New 

road construction will not cross streams, and no direct or indirect effects are expected to occur 

as a result of new road construction. Road decommissioning and reconstruction are expected to 

have temporary adverse indirect effects to fish habitat, but result in long term benefits. During 

ad locations to lower risk 

sites, and a reduction in road/stream interactions. 

and shortly after (1-2 years) the implementation phase of road decommissioning and 

reconstruction, sediment introduction to project area streams is likely to increase. Once the 

vegetative recovery process is underway, sediment yield from treated roads should decrease to 

less than pre-project levels. The net result of project road construction and reconstruction at the 

5th field HUC level would be a reduction in road density, a shift in ro
136 Glossary Chapter Eight

 Short term indirect adverse effects to water quality in Lemolo Reservoir may occur. The action 

alternatives may contribute to adverse cumulative effects on water quality. The risk of adverse 

effects is a result of nutrient inputs to groundwater at timber harvest sites, combined with the 

possibility that the nutrients could be transported to Lemolo Reservoir in amounts that could 

contribute to nuisance algae and pH problems present in the reservoir, and are created by the 

existence and operation of the reservoir. The potential effect of the action alternatives on 

 to be mitigated to some degree by proposed road 

decommissioning and soil decompaction, and the effects are expected to be within the range of 

put on 

Lemolo Reservoir are equivocal, and that the indirect effects for sediment input are expected to 

 Downstream Effects

nutrient input to Lemolo Reservoir is likely

natural variability of the watershed (as occurred prior to management). 

Over the longer term, the indirect effects of the project to fish habitat within the project area is 

expected to be beneficial. Sediment introduction to project area streams is projected to decrease 

over time from soil decompaction, and road decommissioning and reconstruction (see 

discussion in hydrology section). No pathways for indirect effects to fish habitat, other than the 

previously discussed nutrient and sediment budgets, were identified. 

Given that no pathways for direct effects were identified, indirect effects for nutrient in

be beneficial over the long term, cumulative effects to analysis area fish habitat are expected to 

be minor and clearly within the range of natural variability (as defined by Reeves in Rothstein, 

1999). 

sediment, and some of the larger material 

 the system before reaching the 

effect for ESA listed and sensitive salmonids. However, the hydropower system 

temperature, nitrogen loading and processing, and other riverine 

significant to water quality in analysis area streams. However, the analysis is equivocal in 

regards to whether the temporary increase in nutrient delivery to groundwater will result in a 

ll be 

 The project area contains much of the North Umpqua River headwaters area located upstream 

from Lemolo dam. All of the project area drains into Lemolo Reservoir. Between Lemolo 

Reservoir and Soda Springs Reservoir, a distance of approximately 23 river miles, two other 

hydropower dams are present. The uppermost, the Lemolo II diversion dam, is located near the 

mouth of Warm Springs Creek, and has a very small, rapid flow through reservoir pool (perhaps 

one acre). Toketee dam, located near the mouth of the Clearwater River, has a reservoir pool of 

approximately 100 acres. Thus, before reaching the point of effect for TES fish species, runoff 

from the analysis area is influenced by impoundment in Lemolo, Toketee, and Soda Springs 

reservoirs, and diversion through approximately 20 miles of canals and four generators. 

 A result of reservoir impoundment is that all bedload

frequently transported as suspended sediment, is removed from

point of 

adversely affects water 

processes. 

Analysis in the Lemolo EIS concludes that the temporary increase in nutrient input to 

groundwater at timber harvest sites may have a short term adverse effect on water quality in 

Lemolo Reservoir. Lemolo Reservoir currently does not meet Clean Water Act 303 standards 

for algae and pH. In context of the nutrient budget for the watershed above Lemolo Reservoir, 

any increase in nutrient delivery to the stream system is expected to be small, and not 

significant decrease in water quality in Lemolo Reservoir. Given the much larger drainage area,

and the fact that timber harvest and prescribed fire nutrient introductions to groundwater wi
Chapter Eight Glossary 137

well within levels historically generated by the natural fire regime, the proposed project will not 

result in a significant effect on water quality in the North Umpqua River at Soda Spring’s dam. 

.8

 

3 WATERSHED – STREAMFLOW REGIME1

ANALYSIS APPROACH 

Evaluating the water resource effects involved different approaches. The “Umpqua National 

Forest Standard and Guideline Procedures for Watershed Cumulative Effects and Water 

Quality” (Umpqua NF, 1990) was applied where judged applicable to analyze the potential to 

affect stream flow and impact water quality and beneficial uses. The Hydrologic Recovery 

Procedure (HRP), recent snow accumulation and melt research on the Diamond Lake Ranger 

District and on the Gifford Pinchott National Forest, and professional judgment were used to 

evaluate the potential risk of increased peak stream flow, which will affect channel erosional 

e loss and recovery of canopy, 

e at zero recovery. 

dgment was based on field investigations of existing and proposed harvest units, 

nly briefly refers to effects downstream of 

the reservoir. 

3.8.2

 is based on hydrologic drainage and defined by a national hierarchical 

drologic drainage in nested multi-level divisions (FGDC, 2002). A 

t the national scale (e.g.; Pacific 

 

processes that might result in adverse cumulative effects on water quality and beneficial uses. 

The HRP addresses the rain-on-snow susceptibility for the transient snow zone (2,000 – 5,000 

feet) at the sub-watershed and/or watershed scale by tracking th

which affects soil moisture through reduced evapotranspiration and snow accumulation and 

melt. Rain-on-snow runoff events are generally associated with a 5-year or greater peak flow. A 

5-year or greater runoff event has a 20% or less chance of being equaled or exceeded in any one 

year. Snow accumulation and melt research indicates that a shelterwood canopy can allow about 

60% greater snow pack runoff than mature forest (Storck, Kern, and Bolton 1999). HRP 

analysis assumed a combined 40% canopy recovery condition for proposed shelterwood, partial 

harvest, and thinning units while proposed seed tree and small group harvest acres were 

considered to b

Professional ju

existing roads, and existing stream conditions within the Lemolo Watershed Projects analysis 

area. Water quality was evaluated by identifying the existing condition and the influencing 

processes associated with an impacted water quality parameter. 

Direct and indirect effects to stream channels will be analyzed at the site level within the 

analysis area. Cumulative effects will be analyzed at the sub-watershed (North Umpqua 

Headwaters, Bradley Creek, Thirsty Creek, Lemolo Reservoir, and Lake Creek) and watershed 

(Lemolo Lake and Diamond Lake) scales. Below the reservoir it is assumed that if effects from 

the proposed activities will occur, they will be masked, and ties with potential site disturbance 

will not be apparent. As a result, the effects analysis o

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

The primary analysis area is the Lemolo Lake 5th Level Watershed. A “Watershed” is a 

division of land that

system, which delineates hy

hydrologic division is called a “Hydrologic Unit.” There are different Levels of “Hydrologic 

Units” with the first Level (1st) being the largest area a

 

1

 Watershed Affected Environ into the following sections; 

Streamflow Regime, Water Quality and Stream Morphology for ease of reference and to assist reader clarity. 

ment and Environmental Effects analysis has been split
138 Glossary Chapter Eight

Northwest) then e dividing to ologic Unit Code 

(HUC) is a u der this sys hierarchical nesting by 

using two digits per level. Therefore, the HUC for the 5th Level “Watershed” has a ten-digit 

number. The subdivision of the 5th Level is the 6th rshed.” The HUC for the 

6th Level Sub-watershed has a twelve-digit number. 

The Lemolo 5th Level Watershed Hydrologic Unit Code (HUC) under this system is 

. 

atersheds and HUCs 

ach 1st Level sub nested smaller levels. The Hydr

nique numerical identifier un tem that carries the 

Level “Sub-wate

1710030102 and nested in the North Umpqua River 4th Level Sub-basin (HUC 17100301). 

The two major Class II (fish bearing) streams present in the area are the North Umpqua River 

(major inflow to Lemolo Reservoir) and Lake Creek (from the outlet of Diamond Lake to 

Lemolo Reservoir). 

The Lemolo Lake 5th Level Watershed is subdivided into five 6th Level “Sub-watersheds”. 

These sub-watersheds and HUCs are displayed in Table 15

Table 8 – 6th Level Sub-w

Sub-watershed Hydrologic Unit Code (HUC) 

North Umpqua Headwaters 171003010201 

Bradley Creek 171003010202 

Lake Creek 171003010203 

Thirsty Creek 171003010204 

Lemolo Reservoir 171003010205 

 of cumulative effects for this project. The project area is entirely within 

public lands administered by the U.S. Forest Service, although the land within the Diamond 

Upstream of the Lemolo Watershed is the Diamond Lake 5th Level Watershed. The HUC for 

Diamond Lake is 1710030101. This watershed is the upper most one in the North Umpqua 

River Sub-basin. Since the Diamond Lake Watershed is located upstream from the primary 

analysis area, it can potentially contribute to water resource effects and was included in the 

analysis discussion

Lake Watershed extends into Crater Lake National Park. 

STREAM FLOW REGIME CHARACTERISTICS

The steam flow regime for the Lemolo Lake Watershed is uniquely influenced by the High 

Cascade sub-province geology and spring snowmelt (Diamond Lake/Lemolo Lake Watershed 

Analysis). This underlying geology is the controlling factor in the development of the High 

Cascade aquifer (Diamond Lake – Lemolo Lake Watershed Analysis, 1998; Sherrod, 1995; 

en, 1994). The geologic characteristics influence a high volume and storage capacity of 

sing to channels. The surficial pumice soil allows rapid water 

infiltration that generally drains to the relatively young, deeply fractured basalt bedrock. The 

migration of surface water vertically as well as horizontally over a wide 

area. Low stream density in this geology is commonly observed and the stream flow regime is 

is slowly responding but persistent with small annual flow 

fluctuations i.e. the difference between summer to winter flow. The flow condition provides 

ff of downstream Western 

Ingebrits

groundwater while slowly relea

common occurrence of joints and fracture patterns in the bedrock provides the opportunity for 

rapid infiltration and 

spring-dominated. 

The resulting stream flow regime 

cool and consistent summer flow while producing less winter responsive runoff in contrast to 

the warmer and lower summer flow and more responsive winter runo
Chapter Eight Glossary 139

Cascade sub-province. Annual river flow in the North Umpqua River below the Lemolo 

y half of the annual precipitation for the watershed. Streams in the 

Western Cascade sub-province tend to runoff over 70% of the precipitation because of much 

3.8.3

3.8.4

Reservoir is approximatel

less storage ability in the older geology. 

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

Stream flow Regime discusses primarily peak flow response but also potential change in water 

yield and movement. 

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

 Since the existing hydrograph will not be affected by this alternative, no direct or indirect 

effects on the stream flow regime are expected from this alternative. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

ly 1432 acres of additional natural fuels treatments under Lemolo Fire Hazard 

Reduction CE, and 9 acres of the Bear Paw timber sale. Pre-commercial thinning will increase 

overall stand health and vigor supporting hydrologic recovery. The Hydrologic Recovery within 

the transient snow zone for the Lemolo Lake 5th Level Watershed is currently high (99%). 

Hydrologic recovery was historically affected by the harvest of approximately 2,000 acres in 

the watershed, but those acres now have equivalent recovery acreage of about 1100 acres. The 

fuels treatment will reduce the fire hazard and risk of losing canopy and reducing hydrologic 

recovery. Bear Paw timber sale will reduce the hydrologic recovery to zero on 9 acres, but 

without influence on the watershed or sub-watershed stream flow regime. 

 PacifiCorp’s operations exist within the analysis area that may affect stream flow regime. As 

identified in the hydropower Settlement Agreement, PacifiCorp’s operations will increase 

minimum instream flow for bypassed reaches in comparison to existing condition. The potential 

change will increase instream low flows in the North Umpqua River below the Lemolo Dam. 

 Since implementation of this alternative with the other planned activities will not change the 

stream flow regime, no adverse cumulative stream flow will occur under this “no action” 

alternative. 

 

Several other activities are proposed within the analysis area that may affect stream flow 

regime. These include up to 600 acres of pre-commercial thinning over the next five years, 

approximate
140 Glossary Chapter Eight

3.8.5 ALTERNATIVE 2

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

 The proposed silvicultural treatments will temporarily reduce evapotranspiration and increase 

potential snow accumulation at the site scale. Canopy recovery in 10 years will diminish these 

responses for the proposed thinned areas to about 50% to 85% of pre-harvest canopy condition. 

In addition, annual water yield and summer low flow will show little to no change with these 

types and areas of proposed treatments (Beschta, 1995). 

 Compaction within proposed activities will cause localized surface water to route and 

concentrate. However, it has been observed by a soil scientist that this process only carries 

water a relative short distance until less compacted ground is reached then the water infiltrates 

(personal communications with James Archuleta). With the typical low stream density and high 

infiltration of the High Cascade geology and the proposed Best Management Practices (BMPs) 

for soil protection, it is very unlikely that routed water will reach a stream channel. 

 The proposed sub-soiling of previously managed stands and road decommissioning will restore 

soil productivity and improve water infiltration. The road decommissioning will also eliminate 

the potential of efficiently routing ditch water to stream channels, which influences channel 

network extension. All the “action alternatives” will sub-soil 232 acres and decommission 10.74 

miles of road. 

 Therefore, no adverse direct or indirect effects on the stream flow regime are expected from this 

alternative and. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

 Results from the HRP analysis indicate that the existing harvest units within the transient snow 

zone in all the sub-watersheds currently have high recovery levels for the year 2003. Lemolo 

Reservoir has the lowest at 97% recovery. The recovery at the watershed scale (Lemolo Lake 

Watersheds) is 99% for 2003. Since the land in Diamond Lake Watershed is above the transient 

snow zone (>5000 feet), it is outside of the analysis criteria and not included. 

 At these levels of hydrologic recovery (within High Cascade terrain), the stream flow regime 

has not likely been modified by forest canopy removal in the transient snow zone from predisturbance conditions. Under the historical moderate-severity fire regime, natural wildfires 

before fire suppression activity likely caused greater canopy reduction and lower hydrologic 

recovery by infrequent fires (25 to 100 years; Diamond Lake/Lemolo Watershed Analysis). The 

Umpqua Land Management Plan identifies 75% hydrologic recovery as a level of concern to 

further evaluate potential peak flow cumulativ

considerably greater than this level of concern. 

e effects. The existing hydrologic recovery is 

The added influence of the existing road network and compacted soils at the sub-watershed or 

watershed scale has not likely increased stream flow peaks or changed the timing to an earlier 

rise in the storm hydrograph. The peak flow studies that have evaluated the effect of compaction 

have founded that the influence was evident when 12% of the area was compacted (Beschta, 

1995 and Harr, 1976). The current level of road compaction for the sub-watersheds range from 
Chapter Eight Glossary 141

1% to 3% and Lemolo Lake Watershed is 1%. Total watershed compaction currently is 3% (see 

or the1931-1982 period for the area above 

the Lemolo Dam also does not show an obvious compaction affect when comparing reference 

Therefore, no adverse cumulative effects on the stream flow regime have occurred under the 

nged in 2003. There will also be a slight 

decrease in recovery at the Lemolo Lake Watershed scale to 98%. However, the hydrologic 

rshed scale with the implementation of the soil 

BMPs. In addition, annual water yield and summer low flow will show little to no change with 

 road construction will compact less than 0.2 % at the sub-watershed level and 

le surficial deposits 

 and will not 

alter soil characteristics due to the low intensity ground heat associated with underburning. 

hinning over the next five years, 

approximately 944 acres of additional natural fuels treatments under Lemolo Fire Hazard 

Soils effects section). 

If compaction from management activities has altered water infiltration and delivery to 

groundwater, then less water will be available to contribute to low flow. An evaluation of 

accumulative annual low flow against precipitation f

(1931-1954) and management (1955-1982) periods. 

existing condition in association with compaction. 

The addition of the proposed harvest units on the landscape will result in a slight decrease in 

hydrologic recovery only for Lemolo Reservoir Sub-watershed, which will be 92% recovered, 

while the other sub-watersheds will be relatively uncha

recovery remains high and above the level of concern. 

Therefore, no adverse cumulative effects on the stream flow regime will occur with the addition 

of this alternative in association with canopy reduction. Compaction levels in units will not 

noticeably change at the sub-watershed or wate

the proposed type treatments (Beschta, 1995). 

New road (3.5 miles) and temporary road (3.9 miles) construction will not affect the stream 

flow regime. New

less than 0.03% at the watershed level. For this alternative, net road reduction at the watershed 

level will be 5%. 

 Therefore, no adverse cumulative compaction effects from the addition of the proposed roads on 

the stream flow regime will occur. 

Based on field review, there is not a high likelihood for the interception of groundwater in the 

development of all road prisms, because of the sufficient depths of permeab

and the relatively deep groundwater surface level at these sites. Therefore, initiation of surface 

flow and channel network extension due to road construction is not likely. 

Finally, natural fuels treatment of 282 acres is not planned within riparian reserves,

Therefore, soil permeability and water runoff will not be affected. The fuels treatment will 

reduce the fire hazard and risk of losing canopy and reducing hydrologic recovery. 

Several other activities are proposed within the analysis area that may affect stream flow 

regime. These include up to 600 acres of pre-commercial t

Reduction CE, 9 acres of the Bear Paw timber sale, and PacifiCorp’s hydropower operation. 

These activities are discussed under “no action” Alternative. 
142 Glossary Chapter Eight

 Since implementation of this alternative with the other proposed and existing activities will not 

negatively influence the stream flow regime, no adverse cumulative stream flow effects will 

.8.6

occur. 

3 ALTERNATIVES 3 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

The direct and indirect effects discussed under Alternative 2 will apply to this alternative. The 

outcome will be less than Alternative 2 since fewer acres are proposed for harvest and fewer 

miles of road proposed for new and temporary construction and reconstruction. This alternative 

res of harvest and miles of roadwork for all the “action alternatives.” 

Therefore, no adverse direct or indirect effects on the stream flow regime are expected from this 

also proposes the least ac

alternative. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

The addition of the proposed harvest units on the landscape will result in a slight decrease in 

hydrologic recovery only for Lemolo Reservoir Sub-watershed, which will be 94%, while the 

er Alternative 2. For this alternative, net road reduction at the watershed 

level will be 6%. The Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction CE will include 1432 acres, which is the 

on.” The general outcome will be similar to Alternative 2 relative to area of 

disturbance. Therefore, no adverse cumulative effects on the stream flow regime will occur 

.8.7

other sub-watersheds will be relatively unchanged in recovery for 2003. There will also be a 

slight decrease in recovery at the watershed scale to 98%. However, the hydrologic recovery 

remains high and above the level of concern. 

Stream flow response relative to compaction, roads, and other existing and planned activities 

has been discussed und

same as the “no acti

under this alternative. 

3 ALTERNATIVES 4 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

The direct and indirect effects discussed under Alternative 2 will apply to this alternative. The 

ilar to Alternative 2 and 3 relative to area of disturbance. This 

fewer acres of harvest and miles of roadwork than Alternative 2 but 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

general outcome will be sim

alternative also proposes 

slightly more than Alternative 3. Therefore, no adverse direct or indirect effects on the stream 

flow regime are expected from this alternative. 

Stream flow response relative to compaction, roads, and other existing and planned activities 

nder Alternative 2. For this alternative, net road reduction at the watershed 

el will be 6%. The Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction CE will include 1333 acres. The general 

The addition of the proposed harvest units on the landscape will result in a similar hydrologic 

recovery as Alternative 3 at the sub-watershed and watershed scale. However, the hydrologic 

recovery remains high and above the level of concern. 

has been discussed u

lev
Chapter Eight Glossary 143

outcome will be similar to Alternatives 2 and 3 relative to area of disturbance. Therefore, no 

ream flow regime will occur under this alternative. 

.8.8

adverse cumulative effects on the st

3 ALTERNATIVES 5 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

The direct and indirect effects discussed under Alternative 2 will apply to this alternative. The 

roposes fewer acres of harvest and miles of roadwork than Alternative 2 but more 

than Alternatives 3 and 4. 

Therefore, no adverse direct or indirect effects on the stream flow regime are expected from this 

general outcome will be similar to Alternatives 2, 3 and 4 relative to area of disturbance. This 

alternative p

alternative. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

The addition of the proposed harvest units on the landscape will result in a slight decrease in 

activities 

his alternative, net road reduction at the watershed 

eduction CE will include 1033 acres. The general 

tcome will be similar to Alternatives 2, 3 and 4 relative to area of disturbance. Therefore, no 

he stream flow regime will occur under this alternative. 

.9 UALITY 

.9.2

hydrologic recovery only for Lemolo Reservoir Sub-watershed, which will be 93%, while the 

other sub-watersheds will be relatively unchanged in recovery for 2003. There will also be a 

slight decrease in recovery at the watershed scale to 98%. However, the hydrologic recovery 

remains high and above the level of concern. 

Stream flow response relative to compaction, roads, and other existing and planned 

has been discussed under Alternative 2. For t

level will be 6%. The Lemolo Fire Hazard R

ou

adverse cumulative effects on t

3 WATERSHED – WATER Q

3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

BENEFICIAL USES OF WATER

Beneficial uses designated by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) for 

b-basin, are inclusive of the following: water-contact recreation, 

domestic water supply, aesthetics, hydropower, and resident fish and aquatic life. Resident fish 

the North Umpqua River Su

and aquatic life are two uses that forest management has influenced by affecting the habitat 

condition. 

WATER QUALITY STATUS

The Oregon 1994 Water Quality Status Assessment Report 305(b) estimated that all beneficial 

uses of the North Umpqua River Sub-basin are supported, with the exception of both Diamond 

L s within 

Lemolo Watershed an n identified by ODEQ in the 

Clean Water Act Section 303(d) list as water quality limited for 2002. These water bodies and 

the ter are presented in Table 16. 

ake and Lemolo Reservoir, which are only partially supported. Several water bodie

d above and below the watershed have bee

listing parame
144 Glossary Chapter Eight

Ta mary of 303(d) Listed Water Bodies Within and Near the Affected 

Env l

ble 9 - Sum

ironment of the Lemo o Watershed 

Water body Location Listing Parameter 

Diamond Lake Entire lake Algae, pH 

Lake Creek Diamond Lake outlet 

to Lemolo Reservoir. 

Water temperature during both 

spawning and rearing periods. 

Lemolo Reservoir Entire reservoir. pH 

North Umpqua 

River 

Several reaches 

below reservoir 

Flow modification, habitat 

modification, dissolved oxygen, 

water temperature during 

spawning and rearing, pH, total 

dissolved gas. 

l growth 

and higher pH through the algal respiration process. ODEQ has recognized the “major 

dard” with reasonable assurance that the standard will be 

 of the years of fire suppression and fuel accumulation 

(Diamond Lake/Lemolo Lake Watershed Analysis). This condition has created a higher risk of 

se from higher intense fire over a potentially larger area than 

occurred under the reference condition. This risk has a potential influence on water quality for 

Lemolo Reservoir because of the current degraded water quality condition (high pH) that is 

Within the Lemolo Watershed, both Lake Creek and Lemolo Reservoir are listed as water 

quality limited. Lake Creek is identified because of temperature exceedance during the 

spawning period (September 1- July 31) and rearing period (summer) and Lemolo Reservoir is 

identified because of pH exceedance (>8.5 standard units). Lake Creek temperature is 

influenced by the surface water outflow from Diamond Lake. The reservoir pH exceedance is 

limited to the upper 20 feet of the water column. Studies for the relicensing of the North 

Umpqua Hydroelectric Project have found that the reservoir geometry and the general inherent 

nature of the impoundment create conditions conducive to increased pH. The reservoir also 

receives elevated nitrogen levels from Diamond Lake, which is water quality limited for pH, by 

way of Lake Creek. However, ODEQ has stated that the reservoir “is not a major source or sink 

of nitrogen” (ODEQ, 2002). This nitrogen inflow through Lake Creek influences alga

influence” that Diamond Lake has on the water quality in Lemolo Reservoir. Future 

implementation of a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) and water quality management plan 

that will include Diamond Lake is expected to have “positive water quality effects on Lemolo 

Reservoir” (ODEQ, 2002) and possibly reduce the algal growth and the associated pH. 

ODEQ has evaluated the reservoir pH condition in the water quality certification process for the 

North Umpqua Hydroelectric Project as defined in Section 401 of the Federal Clean Water Act. 

ODEQ’s findings state that the reservoir “qualifies for the exemption to the hydrogen ion 

concentration (pH) water quality stan

met through “Protection, Mitigation, and Enhancement measures” that “include each practicable 

pH control technique know” at the time of certification (DEQ, 2002). When any new 

information or data or a North Umpqua Basin TMDL and management plan is implemented, 

reservoir operation will comply with pollutant allocations to protect the water quality and 

beneficial uses of Lemolo Reservoir. 

The fire regime for the Lemolo Watershed has shifted from moderate-severity for the reference 

condition to high-severity because

greater nutrient (nitrogen) relea
Chapter Eight Glossary 145

associated with available nutrients in the surface water from Diamond Lake by way of Lake 

Creek and reservoir configuration. 

3.9.3 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

Water quality environmental effects relate to the Clean Water Act parameters of concern within 

the watershed and parameters potentially influenced by the proposed activities. 

3.9.4

FFECTS

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT E

Since the present watershed condition will not be altered by this alternative, no direct or indirect 

effects or accelerated recovery of water quality are expected from this alternative. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

Other projects will occur in the foreseeable future that may affect water quality. The Lemolo 

Fire Hazard Reduction CE under this alternative proposes 1432 acres of additional natural fuels 

treatments. Natural fuels treatments have the potential of temporarily releasing nutrient to the 

groundwater, which will potentially transport to the stream system. However, since burning will 

 comparison to existing condition. These 

d dissolved oxygen in all 

diverted reaches, and maintain stable water levels in the Lemolo Reservoir to reduce periphyton 

hic algal species downstream, which will help in the reduction of the algal 

oms and pH values in the North Umpqua River. 

rnative will not increase sediment, stream temperature, or 

eters, no additional influence on cumulative water quality 

effects from existing will occur under this “no action” alternative. 

not occur during periods of soil saturation or within riparian reserves and fire intensity will be 

low, much of the additional nutrients will be tied up in the soil pore spaces and taken up by 

vegetation. The project will help to address the risk of fire under the current high-severity fire 

regime, which will also reduce the risk of large-scale nutrient release from such an event. 

 The Bear Paw timber sale will harvest 9 acres within the Lemolo Reservoir Sub-watershed and 

allow nutrient release to the soil profile. These 9 acres are above Lake Creek on a broad flat 

ridge. Most nutrient release will likely be tied up near the activity. However, there is some 

chance of releasing nutrients to the groundwater, which will carry to Lake Creek then Lemolo 

Reservoir. 

 Existing effects to water quality that includes sediment from roads, stream temperature increase 

from loss of riparian shade, and other water quality parameters (e.g.; pH, dissolved oxygen, and 

chlorophyll a) influenced by hydropower operation will continue. However, riparian shade 

recovery and the implementation of the hydropower Settlement Agreement will trend water 

quality toward improvement. 

As identified in the hydropower Settlement Agreement, PacifiCorp’s operations will increase 

minimum instream flow for bypassed reaches in

operational changes will affect water quality in the North Umpqua River and numerous 

tributaries downstream from the analysis area. Potential changes include the release of instream 

flows sufficient to meet water quality criteria for temperature an

volumes and eutrop

blo

Since implementation of this alte

change other water quality param
146 Glossary Chapter Eight

ALTERNATIVE 2 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

3.9.5

Road reconstruction and maintenance of 43.84 miles of road will produce a source of additional 

sediment where culverts are replaced, road surfaces are graded, and drainage ditches are cleared. 

These potential sediment sources will not likely persist beyond the first year and be most 

Proposed road construction will occur on stable slopes and ridge tops, without crossing stream 

, was through a relief culvert and down slope 390 feet, in 

central Idaho. Burroughs and King (1989) found that there will be a 98 percent probability that 

y managed units. 

evident at the site scale. However, reconstruction and maintenance are projected to reduce 

chronic sources of sediment in the long term. Furthermore, the proposed road decommissioning 

and sub-soiling are targeted at roads and areas, which are the main anthropogenic (humancaused) sources of sediment and nutrients. Therefore, these proposed actions will ultimately 

have a benefiting effect on the beneficial uses downstream. 

Timber harvest and road construction are proposed on stable terrain of deep surficial deposits, 

which are not prone to earth flow or landslide activity. Therefore, there is a low risk of these 

mass-wasting processes occurring adjacent to and as a result of proposed units and roads. 

channels. Based on field review, there is not a high likelihood for the interception of 

groundwater in the development of all road prisms, because of the sufficient depths of 

permeable surficial deposits and the relatively deep groundwater surface level at these sites. 

Therefore, initiation of surface flow and channel network extension due to road construction is 

not likely. 

Potential sediment from road construction (new and temporary) is not likely to extend down to 

the current stream network due to extensive distances between roads and existing stream 

channels, lack of stream crossings, and low risk of road related erosion. Wasnieski (1995) 

summarized the findings of numerous studies and found the maximum sediment travel distance 

from new roads, on dry hill slopes

sediment will not travel 400 feet from a relief culvert to a stream that is down slope. Our 

assumption is that where mass wasting is unlikely and the distance to a stream is greater than 

400 feet, sediment will not reach the stream. For all alternatives, the maximum distance to live 

water is greater than 400 feet. Therefore, new roads are not likely to be a source of additional 

fine sediment to stream channels. 

 Since the proposed activities will not occur on unstable sites or within riparian reserves, 

sediment and stream temperature are not likely to be adversely affected by these activities 

directly or indirectly for all “action” alternatives. A similar beneficial effect for all the “action” 

alternatives on the sediment regime is likely with the decommissioning of 10.74 miles of road 

and sub-soiling of 232 acres of previousl

 Riparian reserves will be enforced on all proposed units near stream channels, including both 

harvest and prescribed fire units. Riparian reserves have been found to help “buffer” the stream 

channel from water quality impacts associated with management. Riparian reserves have been 

determined to reduce the amount of nutrient loading to a water body following timber harvest 

and slash burning (Snyder et al., 1975). 
Chapter Eight Glossary 147

. Additionally, 

proposed road decommissioning and sub-soiling may result in a decrease in nutrient delivery 

n the 

analysis area and results of referenced studies, it is possible that a small increase in nutrient 

s may occur as a result of these “action” alternatives. 

ort-term nutrient release. 

Proposed logging operations including fuel treatment will address nutrient loss by implementing 

Best Management Practices (BMPs), and maximizing the amount of organic debris left within 

the units, underburning, and minimizing the period of time between harvest and revegetation. 

By doing so, nutrient losses will be minimized by maintaining the carbon supply, which has 

been found to regulate microbial uptake of nitrogen (Stark and Hart, 1999)

from surface runoff to the stream channel as inorganic sediment nitrogen. An increase in 

nutrient loading as a result of surface erosion, due to increases in compaction, is not expected. 

Nutrient loading increases are also not expected to result from instream scour that can be 

associated with increased runoff. Still, due to the inherently porous nature of the soils i

loading to stream channel

 The fuels and stand treatments for the proposed action alternatives will help to address the 

current high-severity fire regime by reducing fuels and improving stand health. The risk of 

large-scale nutrient release under a high-severity fire regime will be reduced over the long-term 

by all “action” alternatives with the tradeoff of small scale and sh

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

Other projects will occur in the foreseeable future that may affect water quality. The Lemolo 

Fire Hazard Reduction CE (944 acres) and Bear Paw timber sale (9 acres) are planned and/or 

partially implemented in the watershed and may affect water quality. The effects of these 

activities have been discussed under the “no action” alternative. 

Implementation of any of the “action” alternatives will not increase sediment or water 

temperature, but may have a temporary effect on indirect nutrient delivery to Lemolo Reservoir. 

These alternatives together with the existing proposals previously discussed may contribute to 

the already existing adverse cumulative effect on water quality in Lemolo Reservoir. Nitrogen is 

already an influence on the pH problems in the upper 20 feet of the reservoir. Studies by 

The potential nitrogen influence to Lake Creek was used to compare alternatives. The amount of 

nitrogen lost to streams is related to the amount of disturbance. Therefore, shelterwoods and 

small group harvest units that will likely drain to Lake Creek will have the most likely effect. 

ll include 150 acres draining to Lake Creek. This proposed alternative 

together with other activities in the Watershed may add to the accumulative nutrient response in 

molo Reservoir. However, nutrient release in response to the alternative will likely be small 

 to the potential outcome of a wildfire under a high-severity 

fire regime. 

PacifiCorp have concluded that the pH exceedances are undoubtedly due to the nitrogen input 

from Diamond Lake that is routed to Lemolo by Lake Creek and the reservoir creating 

conditions favorable to algal growth. However, the nitrogen contribution that is of most concern 

will enter the reservoir and mix in the warm surface water from tributary inflow as Lake Creek. 

Nitrogen released from proposed harvest and/or fuel treatment and carried by cooler 

groundwater may enter the reservoir, but will not likely mix with the warmer surface water and 

contribute to the water quality concern. 

This alternative wi

Le

in scale and short in time compared
148 Glossary Chapter Eight

3.9.6 ALTERNATIVE 3

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

 year and be most 

ident at the te scal However, reconstruction and maintenance are projected to reduce 

. Furthermore, the proposed road decommissioning 

and sub-soiling is targeted at roads and areas, which are the main anthropogenic (man-caused) 

Road reconstruction and maintenance of 23.98 miles of road will produce a source of additional 

sediment where culverts are replaced, road surfaces are graded, and drainage ditches are cleared. 

These potential sediment sources will not likely persist beyond the first

ev si e.

chronic sources of sediment in the long term

sources of sediment and nutrients. Therefore, these proposed actions will ultimately have a 

benefiting effect on the beneficial uses downstream. 

 The erosional effects of proposed activities, the role of riparian reserves, mitigative measures, 

and the scope of nutrient response have been discussed under Alternative 2. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

The Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction CE (1432 acres) and Bear Paw timber sale (9 acres) are 

planned and/or partially implemented in the watershed and may affect water quality. The 

effects of these activities have been previously discussed under “no action” alternative. 

en influence to Lake Creek was used to compare alternatives. The amount of 

nitrogen lost to streams is related to the amount of disturbance. Therefore, shelterwoods and 

y drain to Lake Creek have the most probable effect. This 

ining to Lake Creek. This proposed alternative together with 

other activities in the Watershed may add to the accumulative nutrient response in Lemolo 

3.9.7

CTS

 The potential nitrog

small group harvest that will likel

alternative will include 55 acres dra

Reservoir. However, nutrient release in response to the alternative will likely be small in scale 

and short in time compared to the potential outcome of a wildfire under a high-severity fire 

regime. 

ALTERNATIVE 4

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFE

 ditches are cleared. 

These potential sediment sources will not likely persist beyond the first year and be most 

t the site scale. However, reconstruction and maintenance are projected to reduce 

. Furthermore, the proposed road decommissioning 

and sub-soiling is targeted at roads and areas, which are the main anthropogenic (man-caused) 

The erosional effects of proposed activities, the role of riparian reserves, mitigative measures, 

Road reconstruction and maintenance of 24.66 miles of road will produce a source of additional 

sediment where culverts are replaced, road surfaces are graded, and drainage

evident a

chronic sources of sediment in the long term

sources of sediment and nutrients, and therefore, will ultimately, have a benefiting effect on the 

beneficial uses downstream. 

and the scope of nutrient response have been discussed under Alternative 2. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 149

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

The Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction CE (1333 acres) and Bear Paw timber sale (9 acres) are 

planned and/or partially implemented in the watershed and may affect water quality. The effects 

of these activities have been previously discussed under the “no action” alternative. 

The potential nitrogen influence to Lake Creek was used to compare alternatives. The amount of 

to the amount of disturbance. Therefore, shelterwoods and 

small group harvest that will likely drain to Lake Creek have the most probable effect. This 

3.9.8

 

nitrogen lost to streams is related 

alternative will include 78 acres draining to Lake Creek. This proposed alternative together with 

other activities in the Watershed may add to the accumulative nutrient response in Lemolo 

Reservoir. However, nutrient release in response to the alternative will likely be small in scale 

and short in time compared to the potential outcome of a wildfire under a high-severity fire 

regime. 

ALTERNATIVES 5 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

Road reconstruction and maintenance of 34.22 miles of road will produce a source of additional 

iment where culverts are replaced, road surfaces are graded, and drainage ditches are cleared. 

 sources will not likely persist beyond the first year and be most 

evident at the site scale. However, reconstruction and maintenance are projected to reduce 

e a benefiting effect on the 

beneficial uses downstream. 

sed

These potential sediment

chronic sources of sediment in the long term. Furthermore, the proposed road decommissioning 

and sub-soiling is targeted at roads and areas, which are the main anthropogenic (man-caused) 

sources of sediment and nutrients, and therefore, will ultimately, hav

The erosional effects of proposed activities, the role of riparian reserves, mitigative measures, 

and the scope of nutrient response have been discussed under Alternative 2. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

The Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction CE (1033 acres) and Bear Paw timber sale (9 acres) are 

planned and/or partially implemented in the watershed and may affect water quality. The effects 

of the activities have been previously discussed under Alternative 2. 

The potential nitrogen influence to Lake Creek was used to compare alternatives. The amount of 

isturbance. Therefore, shelterwoods and 

small group harvest that will likely drain to Lake Creek have the most probable effect. This 

s draining to Lake Creek. This proposed alternative together with 

er activi in the Wate hed may add to the accumulative nutrient response in Lemolo 

nitrogen lost to streams is related to the amount of d

alternative will include 81 acre

oth ties rs

Reservoir. However, nutrient release in response to the alternative will likely be small in scale 

and short in time compared to the potential outcome of a wildfire under a high-severity fire 

regime. 
150 Glossary Chapter Eight

3.10

.10.2 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

 deposition of fine 

sediment. However, channel adjustment from former heavy grazing by sheep in the watershed 

o 

ke Watershed An sis). These channels appear to be inherently stable due to the nature of 

 peak flows that generally are not high energy 

but rise and fall gradually in response to both snowmelt and rainfall events. 

the 

ared to other streams in different watersheds, which have 2–5 times more 

ta). The low representation of pools is not likely a result of a 

deficit in large woody material. Large woody material across the watershed is moderately 

an 41 pieces per mile. However, the inherent nature of the 

geology, with slow responding runoff events, does not often have sufficient stream energy to 

.10.3 ENTAL EFFECTS

 stream channel morphology discusses the potential to alter channel 

3.10.4

WATERSHED – STREAM MORPHOLOGY 

3

Channel stability and fish habitat inventories have given insight into the erosional and channel 

morphological processes within headwater streams in the watershed (Diamond Lake/Lemolo 

Lake Watershed Analysis). Results have shown that stream channel stability is moderate to high 

for all types of geologic settings surveyed, with little evidence of significant slope failure or 

mass wasting, and minimal amounts of excessive stream bank erosion or

during the late 1800’s and early 1900’s may still be occurring to riparian areas (soil 

compaction) and stream channel (width/depth ratio). Significant adjustment in channel 

morphology following elimination of grazing disturbance has occurred on a decadal time scale. 

Overall, channel stability within the managed watershed areas does not significantly differ from 

those in unmanaged and are relatively stable with properly functioning systems, which 

efficiently process both flow and sediment under the current condition (Diamond Lake/Lemol

La aly

the stream flow regime, which is characterized by

The pool/riffle ratio appears low (range: 2/98 – 16/84) for the different stream types in 

watershed when comp

pools (Umpqua Level II survey da

present with a frequency greater th

scour pools and maintain existing. Therefore, riffles and glides tend to dominate the channels. 

3 ENVIRONM

Environmental effects to

function, stability, and fish habitat because of stream flow and/or sediment regime changes. 

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

No adverse direct or indirect effects or accelerated recovery of channel form are expected from 

this alternative, because peak flows and sediment delivery to stream channels will not be 

increased. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

PacifiCorp’s operations are currently affecting stream channel morphology within and 

cause of flow regulation. However, under the recent 

hydropower Settlement Agreement, PacifiCorp’s operations will increase minimum in-stream 

flow in bypassed reaches in comparison to former operation, which includes the North Umpqua 

downstream of the watershed be
Chapter Eight Glossary 151

River below Lemolo Reservoir. The increased minimum in-stream flow will improve summer 

rearing space. 

No adverse cumulative impacts to channel morphology are expected from the combination of 

3.10.5

other projects planned in the Lemolo Lake Watershed because implementation of this 

alternative will not change the stream flow or sediment regime. 

ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, 4, AND 5 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS 

The proposed reconstruction will temporarily produce a source of additional sediment for about 

e sub-soiling of previously managed stands and road decommissioning that is equally 

s will help to restore soil productivity and improve water infiltration. 

These activities will reduce the amount of ditch flow, which could provide channel network 

erse direct or indirect effects to channel form are expected because stream flow and 

one year. However, over the longer period chronic sediment sources will be reduced, which 

will provide improvement to the current sediment regime. 

Th

proposed in all alternative

extension and influence on stream flow response. Therefore, the proposed activities will help to 

trend toward improvement or maintain the stream flow and sediment regimes by reducing 

compacted surfaces, water concentration, ditch routing to channels, and associated fluvial 

erosion. 

No adv

sediment regimes will not be increased and Riparian Reserves will not be altered by these 

“action” alternatives. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

 cifiCorp’s operatio are cu ntly aff Pa ns rre ecting stream cha m phology within and nnel or

3.10.6

ategy using the Matrix of 

Pathway and Indicators found that the effects of all the action alternatives will maintain all the 

the environmental baseline 

(“Analysis of Aquatic Conservation Strategy Objectives for the Lemolo Watershed Projects 

downstream of the watershed because of flow regulation. However, under a recent hydropower 

Settlement Agreement, PacifiCorp’s operations will increase minimum in-stream flow in 

bypassed reaches in comparison to former operation, which includes the North Umpqua River 

below Lemolo Reservoir. The increased minimum in-stream flow will improve summer rearing 

space. 

No adverse impacts to channel morphology are expected in combination with other projects 

planned in the Lemolo Lake Watershed because implementation of the “action” alternatives will 

not change the stream flow or sediment regimes. 

CONSISTENCY WITH AQUATIC CONSERVATION STRATEGY - ALL ALTERNATIVES

The evaluation of the 9-objectives for the Aquatic Conservation Str

aquatic indicators of measurement at current condition for 

Environmental Impact Statement;” Appendix D). Habitat Access was the only indicator 

maintained at a “not properly functioning” condition. However, this evaluation is based on the 

Lemolo Dam preventing fish movement. Those indicators that will maintain an “at risk” 
152 Glossary Chapter Eight

condition are sediment, nutrient/chemical contamination, pool frequency, pool quality, and 

stream bank condition. The sediment, pool frequency, pool quality, and stream bank condition 

indicators are noticeably influenced by the High Cascade geology and soils that define sensitive 

condition. The environmental baseline for nutrient/chemical contamination is influenced by the 

water quality listing of Lemolo Reservoir for pH and the porous nature of the project area soils 

that allow nutrient movement to the groundwater then surface water. 

3.11 WILDLIFE - MANAGEMENT INDICATOR SPECIES 

3.11.2 K- TAILED 

D (Odocoileus emionus columbianus) 

 to be from Windigo Pass 

o Kelsay Valley and then northward out of t rm Springs basin. The 

 watersheds. 

 forage, water and security to meet cow and 

calf needs. Wet meadow complexes and riparian zones are often such places. Within the 

 habitat. Based on information contained 

in a GIS size class map, current Cover:Forage ratio for the affected environment is 81:9. This 

and thermal stands as "cover," and reflects the large amount of the analysis 

area in which timber harvest is precluded (Oregon Cascades Recreation Area and Thielsen 

y low amounts of open meadows. 

.11.3

 As part of the project planning process, the National Forest Management Act (NFMA) directs 

each forest to identify management indicator species (MIS), and to evaluate the project in terms 

of the effects it will have on the selected indicator species. The goal of project planning is to 

ensure the maintenance or improvement of habitat for these indicator species, while remaining 

consistent with the multiple-use objectives established by the Umpqua Forest Land and 

Resource Plan, as amended. Indicator species are selected as representatives of a particular 

habitat type. Indicator species may include threatened and endangered species, game species, or 

non-game species of special interest. The following MIS inhabit the Lemolo Analysis Area. 

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ROOSEVELT ELK (Cervus elaphus) AND BLAC

EER 

Due to their high recreational value, elk and black-tailed deer are included as Forest 

Management Indicator Species. Although there are some differences in their habitat 

requirements, it is often accepted that meeting the habitat needs of elk will adequately meet the 

needs of deer. As noted in the Watershed Analysis conducted for the Diamond Lake/Lemolo 

Lake area, elk in this area are considered to be migratory. Due to the elevation of the analysis 

area it is considered to be summer range, with important migratory routes and calving areas. 

The migratory route to winter range within the analysis area appears

int he analysis area to the Wa

affected environment for Roosevelt elk and black-tailed deer is the 62,330 acres in the Bradley 

Creek, Lemolo Reservoir, Thirsty Creek and Lake Creek 6th field sub

Elk calving areas must have adequate amounts of

analysis area, the riparian zones and meadows in Kelsay Valley, Lake Creek and wetlands 

associated with Lemolo Lake appear to be good calving

lumps both hiding 

Wilderness) along with the naturall

3 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - ROOSEVELT ELK (Cervus elaphus) AND BLACK-TAILED 

DEER (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus) - ALTERNATIVE 1 

DIRECT, INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

Alternative 1 retains all habitats in its current conditions, with no change to Cover: Forage 

ratios, identified migratory corridors or calving areas. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 153

3.11.4 ALTERNATIVE 2 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

Shelterwood and seed tree harvest prescriptions will convert 448 acres of cover stands to forage 

stands. This increase in forage stands is not of a large enough scale to alter the Cover:Forage 

ratio, which remains at 91:9. Alternative 2 also contains shelterwood harvest units 7, 9, 12, 14 

and 24 within the area described as the travel corridor. These units will remove some thermal 

and hiding cover, but as the Cover:Forage ratio displays, neither of these habitat components is 

in short supply. Even with these regeneration harvest units, the functionality of the travel 

its 25, 29 and 30, which lie close to potential 

calving areas. Human disturbance may move cow bands to other available calving locations 

his is especially true at unit 25, which is located next to the 

Oregon Cascade Recreation Area. Unit 30 is planned for shelterwood harvest. Unit 30 will 

A TERNATIVE 3

ECT AND ECT 

corridor will remain intact. Alternative 2 has un

during periods of harvest activity. T

remove much of a thermal cover stand closest to a meadow area to the northwest, but also add a 

valuable foraging site. Unit 29 is planned as a commercial thinning. This will have less of an 

effect, but will also reduce the amount of thermal cover in a potential calving area. As the 

Cover:Forage ratio indicates, cover within the analysis area is not in short supply. This 

alternative also proposes 3.2 miles of new road construction and 11.0 miles of road 

decommissioning; a net decrease of 7.9 miles. It also includes 282 acres of prescribed burning 

and 264 acres of subsoiling. This decrease in road density, prescribed burning and subsoiling 

will also result in small improvements to Roosevelt elk habitat quality. 

3.11.5 L

DIR INDIR EFFECTS

 Shelterwood and seed tree harvest prescriptions will convert 172 acres of cover stands to forage 

stands. The increase in foraging areas, however, is not large enough to result in a change in the 

Cover:Forage ratio for the analysis area. As with Alternative 2, some thermal and hiding cover 

may be lost in the travel corridor but its functionality will remain intact. Calving habitat impacts 

are similar to those described in Alternative 2, with the sole exception that Alternative 3 does 

not include unit 30. This alternative also proposes 2.5 miles of new road construction and 11.0 

miles of road decommissioning; a net decrease of 8.5 miles. It also includes 303 acres of 

prescribed burning and 264 acres of subsoiling. This decrease in road density, prescribed 

burning and subsoiling will also result in small improvements to Roosevelt elk habitat quality. 

3.11.6 ALTERNATIVE 4

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

 Shelterwood and seed tree harvest prescriptions will convert 254 acres of cover stands to forage 

stands. This increase in foraging area is not large enough to alter the existing Cover:Forage 

ratio. Only unit 12 is within the identified travel corridor. There is abundant cover along this 

route, and proposed shelterwood and seed tree harvest will have little impact to the functionality 

of the travel corridor. The impacts to identified calving habitat are the same as in Alternative 3. 

This alternative also proposes 3.0 miles of new road construction and 11.0 miles of road 

decommissioning; a net decrease of 8.0 miles. It also includes 303 acres of prescribed burning 
154 Glossary Chapter Eight

and 264 acres of subsoiling. This decrease in road density, prescribed burning and subsoiling 

ents to Roosevelt elk habitat quality. 

.11.7

will also result in small improvem

3 ALTERNATIVE 5 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

Shelterwood and seed tree harvest prescriptions will convert 245 acres of cover stands to forage 

stands. This will not alter the Cover:Forage ratio. It also contains units 7 and 12 that are within 

the identified travel corridor, but treatments of these units will not eliminate the functionality of 

the travel way. The impacts to identified calving habitat are the same as in Alternative 3. This 

alternative also proposes 3.0 miles of new road construction and 11.0 miles of road 

decommissioning; a net decrease of 8.0 miles. It also includes 303 acres of prescribed burning 

and 264 acres of subsoiling. This decrease in road density, prescribed burning and subsoiling 

will also result in small improvements to Roosevelt elk habitat quality. 

3.11.8 ALTERNATIVES 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Other ongoing or planned activities that could affect Cover:Forage ratios, travel corridor and 

calving habitat within the analysis area include Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction activities, 

gawatt Timber Sale, Bearpaw Timb ale, an units. The ongoing 

to reduce the amount of hiding cover stands. Gigawatt and Bearpaw Timber Sales will reduce 

the amount of thermal cover and increase forage habitat. These changes are not enough o alter 

alysis area. None of these planned and ongoing projects, in 

combination with effects of these alternatives produce substantial impacts to elk and deer 

.11.9 A E - P M (Martes americana) 

FFECTS 

Gi er S d pre-commercial thinning

Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction activities and pre-commercial thinning units have the potential 

the Cover: Forge ratio across the an

habitat elements. 

3 FFECTED NVIRONMENT INE ARTEN 

The Forest Plan identifies pine marten as inhabitants of lodge pole pine and mountain hemlock 

forests. Currently within the analysis area 58,189 acres are classed within lodge pole pine and 

mountain hemlock forest series. Of this, 53,470 acres (92%) is considered to be mature forest 

that qualifies as suitable pine marten habitat. This mature forest defines the affected 

environment for this analysis. 

3.11.10ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - PINE MARTEN (Martes americana) - ALTERNATIVES 1, 2,

3, 4&5 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT E

 Alternative 1 will maintain all 53,470 acres of existing suitable pine marten habitat within the 

watershed. 

Alternative 2 includes units 19, 29, 30 and 31 within large saw timber classed stands in lodge 

pole or mountain hemlock forests. Of these, only units 19 and 30 are planned for shelterwood 

harvest. Although shelterwood harvest will reduce the amount of available marten habitat by 27 
Chapter Eight Glossary 155

acres, the net effect from these units is not great enough to alter the percentage of suitable 

marten habitat within the analysis area. Units 29 and 31 are group selection or thinnings that 

will reduce the quality of available habitat on an additional 71 acres. 

Alternatives 3, 4 and 5 do not have any shelterwood or seed tree harvest in identified marten 

habitat, but all include units 29 and 31. These thinnings will reduce marten habitat quality 

immediately following treatment. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

Other ongoing and planned activities that may impact the amount of suitable marten habitat 

include the Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction activities and Bearpaw Timber Sale. The Lemolo 

Fire Hazard Reduction activities are expected to result in a reduction of down wood material on 

1432 acres. The Bearpaw Timber Sale has only a minor inclusion in the analysis area, resulting 

in the loss of 10 acres of suitable habitat. When combined with proposed activities in 

Alternatives 2 and 3, these activities result in 37 acres of lost habitat and 1,503 acres of 

degraded habitat quality within the analysis area. These effects would impact approximately 2% 

3.11.11

cies representing the snag and down log 

components of conifer forest habitat because they require snags for nesting, roosting and 

timber harvest, road construction, and fuels treatment activities are proposed. This includes the 

nments. 

 surveys within the analysis area, managed stands have an 

all snags (6-16 inches in diameter) per acre and 0.3 large snags (greater than 16 

 per acre. Unmanaged stands had an average of 18 small and 16 large snags per 

acre.2

11.12

specific direction for managing down wood and snag habitat. In 

t consultations with Fish and Wildlife Service have resulted in a 

esign Features." One such feature is the retention of coarse woody debris in 

is design feature calls for retention of 120' of down wood per acre in pieces at 

least 16 inches in diameter and at least 16 feet long. 

 

of the available habitat within the project area. 

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - CAVITY NESTERS

 Primary cavity-nesters are defined as an indicator spe

foraging. Primary cavity-nesters identified in Forest Plan Appendix B that may occur in the 

Lemolo Watershed Projects Analysis Area include the northern flicker (Colaptes auratus), redbreasted sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber), hairy woodpecker (Picoides villosus), downy 

woodpecker (Picoides pubescens), and pileated woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus). For this 

assessment, the affected environment for cavity nesters is the set of sub watersheds where 

Bradley Creek, Lemolo Reservoir, Thirsty Creek and Lake Creek 6th field sub watersheds, 

encompassing 62,330 acres. Project activities may have potential impacts to cavity nesting 

populations both within treatment units and in adjacent forested enviro

Based on a limited number of snag

average of 13 sm

inches diameter)

3. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - CAVITY NESTERS

 The LRMP, as amended has 

addition to this direction, pas

list of "Project D

activity areas. Th

2 More detailed information on these species can be found in document entitled “Lemolo Watershed Projects 

Effects to Terrestrial Wildlife Species of Interest” in Appendix M. 
156 Glossary Chapter Eight

3.11.13

Effects on pileated woodpeckers and primary cavity-nesters are based on implementation of 

management requirements and mitigation measures related to snags and down wood outlined in 

Chapter 2 under the “Soil” and “Wildlife and Botany” subheadings. 

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) 

Direct Effects

Alternative 1, the No Action alternative does not have any activities that will alter the 

availability of snags available as foraging and nesting sites. 

3.11.14 ALTERNATIVE 2, 3, 4 & 5 

Direct Effects

 Alternatives 2, 3, 4, and 5 each contain timber harvest, road construction, and fuels reduction 

activities that are expected to impact short and long term snag and down wood levels. 

Inventories of previously treated units indicate that these activities result in the loss of total snag 

levels, with a higher percentage of impact to large diameter snags. The exact amount of snag 

habitat loss is hard to predict, but based on limited snag monitoring conducted in the analysis 

area, managed stands had a 74% reduction in large snags and a 27% reduction in small snags 

when compared to unmanaged stands. Although some loss of standing snags is expected in 

timber harvest units, project design features for all action alternatives include minimum snag 

levels that will retain snag levels sufficient to support 60% of potential populations. This 

potential loss of snag habitat can be expected across the 1,579 acres of timber harvest in 

Alternative 2, 636 acres in Alternative 3, 905 acres in Alternative 4 and 1,233 acres in 

Alternative 5. The natural fuels treatments units may also produce some changes to standing 

snag numbers. However, the treatment prescriptions are for relatively low intensity burning, so 

any loss of standing snags or recruitment of new snags from burn mortality is expected to be 

very low. 

Cumulative Effects

Other ongoing or planned activities that may impact the amount of snags and down wood within 

the Lemolo Analysis Area are firewood collection, natural fuels reduction activities, and timber 

harvest operations. Firewood collection on the Umpqua National Forest requires a permit, and is 

esignated firewood cutting areas is located 

along the Windigo Pass road. This policy offers some control over removal of snags and down 

 the 

isting fire od policy are not expected in the im ediate cted 

limited to 20 acres of Gigawatt and Bearpaw units. When combined with proposed treatments in 

generally restricted to certain areas. One of these d

wood by limiting firewood cutting to standing dead or down lodge pole pine. Changes to

ex wo m future and past trends are expe

to continue. These firewood cutting activities result in decreased snag and down wood levels 

along open roads. However, this designated firewood cutting area is located in a lodge pole pine 

area with abundant and ongoing tree mortality. Snag and down wood levels are high in most of 

this habitat. Natural fuels reduction activities can alter cavity nester habitat by reducing snag 

and down wood levels through piling and burning of brushpiles, or through underburning. 

Underburning may also result in the creation of future snag habitat when burning operations 

result in new tree mortality. The Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction project is expected to result in 

fuel reductions on 1432 acres within the analysis area. Planned timber harvest in the area is 
Chapter Eight Glossary 157

action alternatives, these impacts to standing snag availability will occur on approximately 2% 

of the analysis area. Given the large amount of area with natural snag levels nearby (Oregon 

Cascades Recreational Area), this level of impact will not produce any substantial impact to 

.12

3.12.2

und Diamond 

Lake, Lemolo Lake and Toketee Lake. Proposed activities have the potential to affect only the 

ffected environment for this analysis is defined as the area 

within 1⁄4 mile of Lemolo Lake, the Lemolo Lake water body and the southerly aspects of 

.12.3

Bald eagles are summer residents of the Lemolo Lake area and both an active and alternate nest 

ker Hill area north of Lemolo Lake. A site specific nest 

management plan for this nest has not yet been developed, so land management activities are 

 C3-II (Bald Eagle, Maintained) prepared for the 

Umpqua National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan, as amended. This Prescription 

.12.4 A 1 (N A ) 

overall snag habitat conditions throughout the watershed. 

3 FEDERALLY LISTED ANIMAL SPECIES 

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - NORTHERN BALD EAGLE (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) 

The bald eagle is a raptor which preys largely upon fish and is most often associated with rivers 

or lakes. Primary habitat components include clean water with abundant populations of fish and 

large wolf perch trees and roost sites located nearby. Nest and roost trees are often the biggest 

trees available with stout limbs capable of supporting large nesting structures. Nest trees must 

also have suitable flight paths into the nest and offer good visibility of the surrounding terrain. 

On the Diamond Lake District bald eagles have been verified as occurring aro

Lemolo Lake bald eagles, so the a

Bunker Hill. 

3 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS- NORTHERN BALD EAGLE (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) 

have been located in the Bun

guided by Land Management Prescription

directs that a 330 foot radius primary zone be established around both active and alternate nest 

trees. No harvest is permitted within this primary zone. A secondary zone extending from 330 

feet to 660 feet from the nest tree is also established. Within this secondary zone harvest is 

restricted to no more than 10% of the area per decade. All mechanized activity in each zone is 

prohibited from January 1 through August 31 to allow an undisturbed nest site. 

3 LTERNATIVE O CTION

Direct and Indirect Effects

Alternative 1 is the No Action alternative and will retain both the primary and secondary zones 

in their current condition. Alternative 1 will have "No Effect" to bald eagles or their habitat. 

ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, 4 AND 5 

Direct, Indirect and Cumulative Effects

 

3.12.5

Alternatives 2, 3, 4 and 5 all propose timber harvest, natural fuels treatments, road 

decommissioning, and subsoiling. All natural fuels treatments, road decommissioning and 

subsoiling would be located over 1 mile from the nest location. Given the eagle’s acceptance of 

ongoing boating, camping, hiking, hunting and trail/road maintenance in the Lemolo Lake area 
158 Glossary Chapter Eight

and the distance to the active eagle nest; the natural fuels, road decommissioning and subsoil 

activities are not expected to produce any adverse disturbance to nesting bald eagles. 

Potential impacts of action alternatives are limited to disturbance associated with proposed 

timber harvest, yarding operations and post sale fuels treatments in proposed units 1-6 and unit 

32. Alternative 2 includes all of these units, while Alternative 3 includes just unit 6. Alternative 

4 includes units 1, 4 and 6 and Alternative 5 includes units 1, 3, 4 and 6. To address this 

potential impact, seasonal restrictions that prohibit helicopter logging operations and fuels 

he young have fledged 

well before the end of August. With this timing restriction in place, there are no anticipated 

ng 

indicates no nesting activity or a documented failure earlier in the season. 

f the nests. Proposed thinnings and group selections are 

to address the concerns for overstocked stands, stressed ponderosa pine over story 

t/disease events. Proposed harvest 

prescriptions will help maintain a healthy forest stand around the nest site and enhance long 

 

3.12.6

l (USDI 1992) and the 

The following definitions were used to prepare this analysis: 

at - Nesting/roosting/foraging (NRF) habitat that is capable of supporting a 

reproductive pair of spotted owls. The location and extent of existing suitable habitat comes 

elevation, stands with over stories averaging at least 11 inches in diameter and 40% canopy 

treatment activities in units 1-6 and unit 32 from January 1 through August 31 each year have 

been incorporated into the management requirements for all action alternatives. Typically, when 

eagle nests at Lemolo Lake or Diamond Lake have been successful, t

effects to bald eagles from disturbance. This timing restriction may be lifted if monitori

In all alternatives, no harvest will occur within the primary zone of either active or alternate 

nests and harvest will be limited in the secondary zone to 10% of the area per decade as directed 

in Forest Plan Prescription C3-II. Proposed harvest prescriptions on Bunker Hill around the nest 

locations include commercial thinning and group selections. No shelterwood or seed tree type 

harvests will occur within 2 miles o

intended 

trees, and increased risk for stand replacement fire or insec

term sustainability of the site, as well as promote ponderosa pine, a species preferred as a 

nesting site. All action alternatives meet the Forest plan direction for managing bald eagle nest 

sites. 

 Proposed harvest and fuel treatment activities in Alternatives 2, 3, 4 and 5 “May Effect”, but are 

“Not Likely to Adversely Affect” bald eagle populations or recovery efforts. This reflects the 

analysis process as dictated by ESA Section 7 consultation guidelines. 

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - NORTHERN SPOTTED OWL (Strix occidentalis caurina) 

 The northern spotted owl utilizes mature forests for both nesting and foraging and is considered 

to be an old growth obligate species. Land management activities to maintain adequate habitat 

for this species are guided by the Draft Recovery Plan for the Spotted Ow

Northwest Forest Plan (NFP). Key elements in these conservation strategies are Late 

Successional Reserves (LSRs), designated Critical Habitat Units (CHUs) and buffer areas 

around spotted owl activity centers. 

 

Suitable Habit

from Forest GIS mapping. 

 Dispersal Habitat - Forested areas which can support individuals as they disperse across the 

landscape, but lack the large diameter trees needed as nesting sites. These stands may provide 

for some foraging as well as roosting and protection from predators. Under 4,500 feet in 
Chapter Eight Glossary 159

closure qualify as dispersal habitat. Over 4,500 feet, stands with average over story sizes above 

9 inches are considered dispersal habitat. 

Unsuitable Habitat - Those areas which are capable of developing into either suitable or 

dispersal habitat but which do not currently meet the definition of either. 

Proposed management activities may impact resident spotted owls through habitat 

suitable habitat and 4,936 acres of dispersal habitat within the Bradley Creek, Lemolo 

Reservoir, North Umpqua Headwaters, Thirsty Creek and Lake Creek 6th field sub watersheds. 

ated in 

Appendix M. 

3.12.7 POTTED OWL (Strix occidentalis caurina) 

 both nesting and foraging and is considered 

to be an old growth obligate species. Land management activities to maintain adequate habitat 

The proposed Alternatives were analyzed in relation to their 

effects on suitable nesting/roosting/foraging habitat, dispersal habitat, and disturbance. Habitat 

ypes can be impacted in the following ways: 

Habitat Removal - When a stand of suitable or dispersal habitat is converted to unsuitable 

d en f s spe a from a 

stand, but the stand is expected to continue to function in the sam clas . 

 Habit Downgrad When suitable habitat is al sufficient ch that it expected to 

function as dispersal habitat after treatment.3

 

 

DIRE , INDIRECT D CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

modifications or disturbance. For this assessment, the affected environment is all of the 6,682 

acres of 

More detailed information on these species can be found in Biological Assessment loc

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - NORTHERN S

The northern spotted owl utilizes mature forests for

for this species are guided by the Draft Recovery Plan for the Spotted Owl (USDI 1992) and the 

Northwest Forest Plan (NWFP). Key elements in these conservation strategies are Late 

Successional Reserves (LSRs), designated Critical Habitat Units (CHUs), and buffer areas 

around spotted owl activity centers. 

definitions can be found in Chapter 3, under the Affected Environment for the Northern Spotted 

Owl. These habitat t

habitat. 

Habitat Degra ation - Wh components o uitable or di rsal habitat re removed

e habitat sification

at ed - tered ly su is 

CT , AN

retains spotted owl habitat. It also has no 

act tive 1 will 

hav have “No 

Effect” resulting from disturbance. 

ti v tte t pa h arized 

in the tables belo

Table 10 - Alternative Effects to Spotted Owl Habitat From Proposed Timber Harvest 

 

 Alternative 1 is the No Action alternative and 

ivities that would result in disturbance to suitable but un-surveyed habitat. Alterna

e "No Effect" to CHU, suitable spotted owl habitat outside of CHU, and will 

Action alterna ves each ha e impacts to spo d owl habita rameters. T ese are summ

w: 

3

 More detailed information on these species can be found in Biological Assessment located in Appendix M. 
160 Glossary Chapter Eight

Alternative 

NRF* 

Removed 

(acres) 

NRF 

Downgraded 

(acres) 

NRF 

Degraded 

(acres) 

Dispersal 

Removed 

(acres) 

Dispersal 

Degraded 

(acres) 

1 0 0 0 0 0 

2 80 0 670 114 6 

3 58 0 190 56 6 

4 23 0 290 86 6 

5 23 0 587 84 6 

 *NRF = suitable nesting/roosting/foraging habitat 

Table 11 - Alternative Effects to Spotted Owls From Proposed Natural Fuels 

treatments 

Alternative 

NRF 

Removed 

(acres) 

NRF 

Downgraded 

(acres) 

NRF 

Degraded 

(acres) 

Dispersal 

Removed 

(acres) 

Dispersal 

Degraded 

(acres) 

1 0 0 0 0 0 

2 0 0 56 0 17 

3 0 0 58 0 17 

4 0 0 58 0 17 

5 0 0 58 0 17 

Table 12 - Combined Harvest and Natural Fuels Impacts to Spotted Owl Habitat 

Alternative 

NRF 

Removed 

(acres) 

NRF 

Downgraded 

(acres) 

NRF 

Degraded 

(acres) 

Dispersal 

Removed 

(acres) 

Dispersal 

Degraded 

(acres) 

1 0 0 0 0 0 

2 80 0 726 114 23 

3 58 0 248 56 23 

4 23 0 348 86 23 

5 23 0 645 84 23 

 Alternatives 2, 3, 4 and 5 all propose timber harvest and natural fuels treatments that “May 

Effect” the amount and quality of spotted owl habitat outside of CHU. These alternatives all 

result in decreases to available spotted owl habitat and are “Likely to Adversely Affect” spotted 

owl habitat outside of designated recovery habitat. 

Alternatives 2, 3, 4 and 5 all propose management activities with the potential of producing 

noise disturbance (chainsaws, loaders, helicopter yarding, bulldozers, etc.) to spotted owls. Each 

alternative incorporates prescribed project design criteria (Appendix M) for roadwork, 

subsoiling and harvest operations to minimize the impact of these activities upon nesting 

spotted owls. This seasonal restriction is not applied to prescribed burning operations because 

fuel moisture conditions needed to achieve the treatment objectives are most prevalent in the 

“May Effect” spotted owls. 

When prescribed burning operations occur during the early reproductive season (March 1 

spring. Those disturbance activities conducted after July 15th 

through July 15) these disturbance activities are “Likely to Adversely Affect” spotted owls. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 161

In the official Biological Opinion issued for the project, the US Fish and Wildlife Service 

ll not jeopardize 

the long-term viability of the spotted owl population. 

concluded that although the project had adverse impacts to spotted owls, it wi

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

Other ongoing and planned activities that could impact spotted owl habitat in the analysis area 

include timber sales, prescribed burning, and cinder pit use. Bearpaw, Gigawatt, and Electric 

tion procedures 

with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The ongoing prescribed burning project near the North 

rea and concluded that they would not 

jeopardize the long-term viability of the northern spotted owl. 

.13 FOREST SERVICE SENSITIVE WILDLIFE SPECIES 

.13.2 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - OREGON SPOTTED FROG (Rana pretiosa)

Although not verified as occurring within the analysis area, the area does contain riparian zones, 

tlands and other dies of r that pr de suitable habitat for this species. The affected 

h proposed 

activities (Bradley Creek, Lemolo Reservoir, Thirsty Creek and Lake Creek). 

3.13.3

as never been documented on the Diamond Lake District. All alternatives include 

arian zon uffers that are cted to main nd reproductive areas of 

ect or cumulative effects 

.13.4 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - COMMON KINGSNAKE (Lampropeltis getulus)

parian areas with thick 

Salvage Sale are located within the watershed and have been through consulta

Umpqua Trail was determined to have no effect to spotted owl habitat. The Kelsay Point cinder 

pit is adjacent to a designated spotted owl core. Consultation for the Kelsay Point project was 

concluded with the Fish and Wildlife conclusion that the project was “Not Likely to Adversely 

Affect” spotted owls. The latest Biological Opinion from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 

incorporated all of these activities within the project a

3

Of the 14 Sensitive wildlife species known or suspected to occur on the Diamond Lake District, 

the Lemolo analysis area has potential habitat for the nine species listed below.4

3

we bo wate ovi

environment for this analysis includes riparian habitat in 6th level watersheds wit

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - OREGON SPOTTED FROG (Rana pretiosa)

The analysis area contains streams and riparian areas that are suitable habitat, although the 

species h

rip e b expe tain the primary habitat a

this species. Alternatives 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 have no identified direct, indir

and are all expected to have “no effect” to this species. 

3

The analysis area is at the upper elevation limit for this species. Ri

vegetation are considered suitable habitat. The affected environment for this analysis includes 

riparian habitat in 6th level watersheds with proposed activities (Bradley Creek, Lemolo 

Reservoir, Thirsty Creek and Lake Creek). 

 

etailed information on these species can be found in Biological Evaluation located in Appendix M. 4 More d
162 Glossary Chapter Eight

3.13.5

Portions of the analysis area fall within the elevational zone reported for this species, so the area 

 as being favored 

habitat are protected by riparian buffers with each of the alternatives. Alternatives 1, 2, 3, 4 and 

3.13.6

Lemolo Reservoir is suitable habitat and is the affected environment. Use of this body of water 

.13.7

effects and will 

have “no effect” to this species. 

.13.8 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT- PEREGRINE FALCON (Falco peregrinus) 

 habitat types within the analysis area, so the 

entire Lemolo Analysis Area is considered to be the affected environment. 

.13.9 E E - P F (Falco peregrinus) 

CTED NVIRONMENT RLEQU UC

within the state. This species prefers turbulent mountain streams and Lake Creek and the North 

pqua River in the analysis area are considered to be potential habitat. This potential habitat 

 considered to be the affected environment. 

3.13.11

ct area is considered to be suitable habitat for harlequin 

ducks. However, all proposed projects are located far enough away from this area that no effects 

are antic t or cumulative 

eff a i

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - COMMON KINGSNAKE (Lampropeltis getulus) 

is considered to be marginal, but potential habitat. The riparian areas reported

5 have no identified direct, indirect or cumulative effects and will have “no effect” to this 

species. 

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - BUFFLEHEAD (Bucephala albeola)

is expected to be limited to times outside of the breeding season. 

3 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - BUFFLEHEAD (Bucephala albeola) 

Lemolo Reservoir is suitable habitat that is likely utilized during the non-breeding seasons. 

None of the proposed actions will alter the suitability of Lemolo Lake for this purpose. 

Alternatives 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 have no identified direct, indirect or cumulative 

3

Suitable nesting and foraging areas occur within the analysis area, but there are no records of 

nesting activity. Habitat use is expected to be limited to foraging from birds nesting in nearby 

locations. Peregrines potentially forage over all

3 NVIRONMENTAL FFECTS EREGRINE ALCON 

Cliffs suitable for peregrine falcon nesting are located in the higher elevations along the 

Cascade Crest, but no high potential sites are known to occur near proposed activity areas. 

None of the alternatives will preclude use by foraging peregrine falcons. Alternatives 1, 2, 3, 4, 

and 5 have no identified direct, indirect or cumulative effects and will have “no effect” to 

peregrine falcons. 

3.13.10 AFFE E - HA IN D K (Histronicus histronicus)

 Although not documented within the analysis area, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 

lists the North Umpqua River Basin above Roseburg as one of the main potential habitat areas 

Um

within the analysis area boundary is

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - HARLEQUIN DUCK (Histronicus histronicus) 

The North Umpqua River in the proje

ipated. Alternatives 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 have no identified direct, indirec

ects and will h ve “no effect” to th s species. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 163

3.13.12 AFFEC ENVIRONMENT - PACIFIC SHREW ( rex pacificus casca nsis) 

 This species has not been verified within the analy rea, although it has been recorded for the 

District on two of the experimental Demonstration of Ecosystem Man Options sites 

(DEMO). Suitable habitat is described as moist f with down wood of the analysis 

area meets this general description. For this analysis the affected environment includes moist 

3.13.13

“no effect” to the Pacific shrew. 

FFECTS

TED So de

sis a

agement 

orests . Much

forest habitat in 6th level watersheds with timber harvest and prescribed natural fuels reduction 

activities (Bradley Creek, Lemolo Reservoir, Thirsty Creek and Lake Creek). 

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - PACIFIC SHREW (Sorex pacificus cascadensis) 

The analysis area contains an abundance of moist wooded areas and is considered to be suitable 

habitat. The No Action alternative will retain all current habitat features. This alternative has no 

direct, indirect or cumulative impacts and will have 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT E

 Alternatives 2, 3, 4 and 5 each include activities that will result in some alterations in suitable 

habitat. Proposed timber harvest and natural fuels reduction activities are expected to reduce the 

quality of available habitat in treated areas. A summary of treated acreage for these project 

types is included below in Table 20. 

Table 13 - Alternative Impacts to Potential Pacific Shrew Habitat 

Alternative Timber Harvest 

(acres) 

Natural Fuels Treatment 

(acres) 

Total Impacted 

(acres) 

1 0 0 0 

2 1,577 282 1859 

3 636 303 939 

4 903 303 1206 

5 1,231 303 1534 

The l result in decreases in down wood and degraded habitat conditions in treated 

rea. Proposed treatment 

s would result in e loss o own wo aterial 1,534 a s o

se activities wil

areas. All action alternatives incorporate standards for retention of down wood. Although there 

may be some loss of down wood material, these retention levels are expected to provide enough 

down wood substrate for continuation of a viable population of pacific shrews within the project 

area. These direct negative impacts will be localized in timber harvest and prescribed burning 

units. Suitable habitat will still remain throughout much of the analysis a

area som f d od m on cre r approximately 3% of 

the total acreage within the affected environment. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Other ongoing and planned activities that could impact pacific shrew habitat in the analysis area 

include other planned and active timber sales, natural fuels reduction activities, and firewood 

collection. The Gigawatt, Bearpaw, and Electric Salvage Timber Sales are within the watershed. 

se timber le areas total 144 s within t Planned and occurring natural 

d firewood cutting areas in the 

analysis area total another 2,666 acres, although actual firewood collection is expected to occur 

The sa acre he watershed. 

fuels reduction projects total an estimated 1432 acres. Identifie
164 Glossary Chapter Eight

on much less than this acreage. These timber sales, natural fuels reduction activities and 

firewood collection areas total 4242 acres and will cause a loss of down wood material that 

produces good small mammal habitat. 

These localized reductions in available habitat “may impact individuals but are not likely to 

cause a trend to federal listing or a loss of viability” for the Pacific shrew. 

D BAT (Myotis thysanodes 

vespertinus) 

alysis area, there are some human structures that have limited potential as 

suitable habitat. These bats have been reported to occupy and forage in a diversity of habitats, 

red to be the affected environment. 

.13.15

tures that may provide roosting locations are not expected to be altered by any of the 

proposed actions. All alternatives have no identified direct indirect or cumulative impacts and 

will have “no effect” to the pacific fringe-tailed bat. 

3.13.16 AFFECTE

 This large carnivore can inhabit a wide variety of habit large un

 distu re preferred. T ana red to be

with areas around the Oregon Cascade Recreation Area providing the high

Although not verified, recent aerial surveys for wolverines have located potential 

and denning sites in the Mount Thielsen area. Wolverines may use a vari abitat 

pes, and the entire analysis area i nsidered the affec vironment. 

3.13.1 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - W LVERINE (Gulo g

3.13.14 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT PACIFIC - FRINGE-TAILE

This bat species is a resident of caves and abandoned human structures. Although there are no 

known caves in the an

so the entire analysis area is conside

3 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS PACIFIC - FRINGE-TAILED BAT (Myotis thysanodes 

vespertinus) 

The analysis area does not contain any known caves suitable for this species. The human 

struc

D ENVIRONMENTAL - WOLVERINE (Gulo gulo)

ats, but disturbed areas free from 

human rbance a he entire lysis area is conside potential habitat, 

est quality secluded

habitats. 

tracks ety of h

ty s co ted en

7 O ulo)

 Alternative 1 is the No Action alternative and retains secluded areas and the forage base in their 

current conditions. Alternative 1 has no direct, indirect or cumulative impacts and will have "No 

effect" to wolverine. 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

Alternative 2, 3, 4 and 5 each have vegetative treatments, but none are of the extent where they 

struction and road decommissioning. These are summarized below in Table 

21. 

are considered to affect the availability of a forage base. Alternative impacts are expected to be 

limited to changes in seclusion habitat availability. Each of the action alternatives proposes both 

additional road con
Chapter Eight Glossary 165

Table 14 - Alternative Impacts to Wolverine Seclusion Habitat 

Alternative New Road 

(miles) 

New Road Impacts

to Seclusion 

Habitat 

(acres) 

Road 

Decommissioning 

(miles) 

Decommissioning impacts 

to Seclusion Habitat 

(increased acres) 

1 0 0 0 0 

2 3.5 0 10.7 1,124 

3 2.8 0 10.7 1,124 

4 3.3 0 10.7 1,124 

5 3.3 0 10.7 1,124 

All new road construction occurs within the area already influenced by existing roads, so the 

Alternatives 2, 3, 4 & 5 maintain the wolverine forage base and result in improvements to the 

seclusion area. These alternatives are expected to have a "beneficial impact" to wolverine 

habitat conditions. 

new construction in Alternatives 2, 3, 4 and 5 do not alter the amount of seclusion habitat 

available for wolverines. These same alternatives include 10.7 miles of road decommissioning. 

The only segment that will alter the amount of existing seclusion habitat is the decommissioning 

of the 4793-100 section at Wit’s End. Decommissioning this segment will indirectly result in an 

increase of 1,124 acres of seclusion habitat. 

 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

 Other planned or ongoing activities that can cumulatively influence the availability of a large 

ungulate forage base and seclusion habitat include prescribed burning, other road developments 

or decommissioning, and recreational use of back-country areas. Prescribed burning in the 

alysis area expected to improve large ungulate habitat by improving grass and browse 

bed burn units, though, comprise a very small portion of the 

in annual traffic rates. Recreational use of 

backcountry area ted to continue. 

umulativ ale 

at conflic bje ni abili

3.13 CTED NMEN FIC FISH rtes pennanti)

 hers have be verified as o rring in the analysis area as as the winter of 1999-

00. Home ranges for fishers are approximatel 0 acres, o he average s of a 6th 

el watershe e affected e nment for th alysis is the 6th level watershe (Bradley 

eek, Lemol ervoir, Thir Creek and L reek) wit harvest and escribed 

tural fuels a ies. Forest mapping indicates there are currently 55,782 acres of 

ture forests (over 80 years of age) providing suitable habitat in these sub watersheds. 

an is

availability and palatability. Prescri

analysis area. The only other road development that is being planned in the area is a potential 

improvement to the Diamond Drive. While this is not expected to result in the loss of any 

seclusion area, it would likely mean an increase 

s has shown an increasing rate of use. This trend is expec

C roje al ot pr bitat im

th

ely, these p

t with the o

cts and project

ctive of maintai

ternatives do n

ng wolverine vi

oduce ha

ty. 

pacts of a sc

.18 AFFE ENVIRO T - PACI ER (Ma

Fis en ccu recently

20 y 5,00 r about t ize

lev d. Th nviro is an ds 

Cr o Res sty ake C h timber pr

na

ma

ctivit structure 
166 Glossary Chapter Eight

3.13.19

Alternative 1 is the No Action alternative and retains current habitat conditions. This alternative 

cumulative impacts and will have “no effect” to fishers. 

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - PACIFIC FISHER (Martes pennanti)

has no direct, indirect, or 

 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

Alternatives 2, 3, 4 and 5 each propose some changes in the availability of mature forest stands. 

These impacts are summarized in Table 22 below. 

Table 15 - Alternative Impacts to Suitable Fisher Habitat 

Alternative 

Number 

Removed 

By Timber 

Harvest 

(acres) 

Degraded by 

Timber 

Harvest 

(acres) 

Degraded by 

Natural Fuels

Treatment 

(acres) 

Habitat 

Remaining 

(acres) 

Percentage 

Impacted 

(%) 

1 0 0 0 55,782 0 

2 531 76 225 55,251 1 

3 182 44 284 55,600 1 

4 266 44 284 55,516 1 

5 297 59 284 55,485 1 

to degrade habitat 

conditions. Only habitat removed was deleted from the existing acreage when calculating the 

bitat rema ng. Both remo nd deg ed itat were s e 

d 

Shelterwood, group, and seed tree harvest prescriptions are considered to remove suitable fisher 

habitat, while commercial thinning and partial harvest are considered 

ha ini val a rad hab ummed to evaluate the percentag

of habitat impacted. Alternatives 2, 3, 4, and 5 all have direct adverse impacts to the amount an

quality of available fisher habitat. The scale of these impacts is minor in comparison to the 

amount of available habitat within the analysis area. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

Other identified ongoing activities that can influence the availability of mature forest suitable as 

fisher habitat include other timber sales and natural fuels treatment projects. The Gigawatt and 

Bearpaw Timber Sales propose 20 acres of harvest in the area. The Electric Salvage Sale occurs 

along major roadways and is not considered to impact potential fisher habitat. The ongoing 

Lemolo Fuels Reduction project may result in some loss of habitat quality on 1432 acres in the 

watershed. Cumulatively, these activities together with proposed alternative activities do not 

viab

ls but are not likely to cause a trend to federal 

listing or a loss of viability” for the Pacific fisher. 

3.14

Measures Standards and Guidelines, implements surveys and various management of known 

produce habitat impacts of a scale that conflict with the objective of maintaining Pacific fisher 

ility. 

Alternatives 2, 3, 4 and 5 “may impact individua

SURVEY AND MANAGE SPECIES 

The ROD recently amended (Feb 2001) by the Record of Decision and Standards and 

Guidelines for Amendments to the Survey and Manage, Protection Buffer, and other Mitigation 
Chapter Eight Glossary 167

sites for late-successional and old-growth forest related species. Surveys were conducted in the 

Lemolo Analysis Area for lichens, bryophytes (moss and liverworts), and fungi that are listed 

Survey and Manage species and have a pre-disturbance survey requirement. 

ED ENVIRONMENT - CRATER LAKE TIGHTCOIL (Pristiloma articum crateris) 

oject area. This population occurs within a very small seep area 

(less than 1 acre) located near proposed fuels unit 70. This occupied Pristiloma habitat is the 

.14.2

3.14.1 AFFECT

 

The survey protocol for this species in place prior to 2003 described suitable habitat for 

Pristiloma articum crateris as being coniferous forests above 2000 feet in elevation, east of 

Interstate 5. Key habitat features were identified as mosses and other vegetation near wetlands 

springs and seeps. There are a great many acres of coniferous forests meeting these 

requirements in the analysis area. Surveys according to this protocol were conducted in all 

suitable habitat activity areas during 1999, 2000 and 2001. These surveys found no Pristiloma 

articum crateris in any of the proposed activity areas; however other survey efforts did locate a 

single population within the pr

affected environment. 

3 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - CRATER LAKE TIGHTCOIL (Pristiloma articum crateris)

- ALTERNATIVE 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS 

Alternatives 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 propose no activities within occupied Pristiloma articum crateris 

habitat and therefore will have no direct effects. Natural Fuels Unit 70 is located a short 

distance from a known Pristiloma articum crateris population located near Crystal Spring. The 

only identified potential indirect effect would be vegetation modification large enough to 

substantially modify water discharge at Crystal Springs. The proposed management activities in 

all 5 alternatives were reviewed with a hydrologist, and none of the alternatives were considered 

as likely to produce such significant hydrologic or habitat impacts. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Other ongoing and planned activities which may cumulatively impact the occupied Pristiloma 

articum crateris habitat are dispersed camping, road maintenance activities and the Diamond 

Drive Reconstruction project. Access barricades have recently been installed at a nearby 

dispersed camping site, which is believed to produce beneficial impacts to the occupied habitat. 

impacts are expected fro these kinds of activities. The Diamond Drive Reconstruction project 

has identified the need for site protection of the area, and has been altered to meet the needs of 

e site. None of these activities are expected to have adverse 

3.14.3

tors most often associated with edges of meadows, riparian zones 

and openings. They have also been documented to forage in created openings including clear 

ds. Suitable habitat within the analysis area occurs near the 

arian and eadow areas associated with the North Umpqua, Spring River, and Lemolo 

Reservoir. Owl calling, using established protocol (1996, 1997 &1998), has resulted in positive 

Road maintenance activities are expected to continue as in the past, so no adverse cumulative 

continued species persistence on th

cumulative impact to the site. 

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - GREAT GREY OWL (Strix nebulosa) 

 Great gray owls are large rap

cuts and heavily thinned forest stan

rip m
168 Glossary Chapter Eight

responses from great gray owls within the analysis area, but no documented nest sites have yet 

been determined. Great gray owls are considered to be resident and reproducing in the project 

area. The lack of documented nest locations is considered to be related to this species' secretive 

nature and unreliability in responding to calling techniques. Land management direction which 

is applicable to these areas include Forest wide Wildlife/TES standard #8 (p.IV-37) which 

directs that active raptor nests be protected until fledging or nesting is complete, Land 

Management Prescriptions C5-1& 3 relating to Wildlife Unique Habitats, and riparian zone 

management direction contained in the Northwest Forest Plan. In Flammulated, Boreal, and 

Great Gray Owls in the United States: A Technical Conservation Assessment (1994), Duncan 

and Hayward cite the two principle factors which appear to limit great gray owl populations as 

the availability of suitable nest sites and suitable abundance of small mammals as a forage base. 

The affected environments are the 6th field sub-watersheds with suitable habitat and proposed 

timber harvest, subsoiling or fuels activities (Bradley Creek, Lemolo Reservoir, Thirsty Creek 

and Lake Creek). 

3 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS- GREAT GREY OWL (Strix nebulosa) - ALTERNATIVE 1

(NO ACTION) 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS 

.14.4

Alternative 1, the No Action alternative, has no effect to the availability of nesting sites or the 

small mammal forage base. This alternative retains great gray owl habitat in its current status. 

3.14.5 ALTERNATIVE 2, 3, 4 & 5 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

to potential foraging habitat. For Alternative 2 this conversion would total 504 acres, 

nati 3 it would tot ac s, for Alternative 4 it would total 245 acres and for 

eac

impact to great gray owls within the analysis area. 

 great gray owls. 

 Great gray owls forage primarily within natural and created openings, and prefer to nest nearby 

these foraging areas. Suitable foraging sites are located throughout the lower elevations of the 

analysis area, but are concentrated in the riparian areas around Lake Creek, Kelsay Valley and 

the North Umpqua River. Other suitable foraging areas were created by recent shelterwood and 

clear-cut harvests. Great gray owls prefer to nest within 500 meters of these foraging sites. 

Almost all of the proposed activities fall within the 500 meter distance to these potential 

foraging areas. Proposed shelterwood, seed tree, and group harvests within mature (over 80 year 

old) stands would remove potential nesting habitat stand canopy closures below the 60% 

desired by great gray owls. These units would result in the conversion of potential nesting 

habitat in

fo ve r Alter al 161 re

Alternative 5 it would total 276 acres. Sufficient potential nesting sites will still be retained with 

h of these action alternatives and none of these alternatives are expected to have an adverse 

 Alternatives 2, 3, 4, and 5 also include natural fuels reduction and subsoiling treatments. Each 

of these has some potential to reduce down wood or ground level vegetation that may influence 

small mammal populations. The natural fuels treatments are expected to reduce down wood 

material. Such an impact is expected to have an adverse impact to total small mammal 

populations, but would also make treatment areas more available for foraging

282 acres are proposed for fuels treatments in Alternative 2, and 303 acres are proposed for 

treatment in Alternatives 3, 4, and 5. Subsoiling treatments are expected to result in an 
Chapter Eight Glossary 169

immediate reduction in ground cover. Following subsoiling, increased tree stocking rates will 

likely reduce the quality of these areas as foraging sites for great gray owls in the long term. 

Alternatives 2, 3, 4, and 5 all propose 264 acres of subsoiling treatments. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Other ongoing or planned activities that could affect great gray foraging or nesting habitat 

s albolarvatus),

Picoides tridactylus Sitta 

Black-backed woodpeckers are residents of lodge pole pine forests or mixed conifer forests with 

et. Some information indicates 

ck-backed wood kers re d favorably e catastrophic events (such as 

eate large amounts of down wood or dying 

anagement activities retain sufficient down 

.14.7 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - FLAMMULATED OWL (Otus flammeolus) 

 inhabit forests of large ponderosa pine stands. The Northwest Forest 

within the analysis area include other timber sales and fuels reduction projects. Other planned 

or ongoing timber sales in the area include Gigawatt, Bearpaw and Electric Salvage. Gigawatt 

and Bearpaw total 20 acres within the analysis area, and would also convert potential nesting 

habitat to foraging habitat. Electric Salvage is not considered to be suitable great gray owl 

habitat. The Lemolo Natural Fuels Reduction project is also expected to impact an additional 

1432 acres of habitat with some reduction to down wood material. When combined, these 

activities still represent less than 7% of the total area within 500 meters of potential foraging 

habitat. 

3.14.6 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - WHITE-HEADED WOODPECKER (Picoide

BLACK-BACKED WOODPECKER ( ), PYGMY NUTHATCH (

pygmaea)

These 3 species of cavity excavators were included in the Northwest Forest Plan ROD with 

snag retention guidelines designed to enhance viability. For ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir 

habitat, inhabited by white-headed woodpeckers and pygmy nuthatches, 0.6 snags per acre will 

be retained with the minimum size being 15 inches dbh. Both white-headed and black-backed 

woodpeckers have been documented to occur on the Diamond Lake District. 

a lodge pole pine component at elevations at or above 4,500 fe

bla pec spon after large-scal

wildfires or large-scale insect epidemics) which cr

trees. The Northwest Forest Plan directs that land m

wood and snag habitat to retain 100% of potential populations. This level is established in the 

Northwest Forest Plan ROD to be .12 snags per acre of trees at least 17 inches in diameter (or 

largest available if 17 inch trees are not available). 

The affected environment for this analysis are those 6th level sub watersheds (Bradley Creek, 

Lemolo Reservoir, Thirsty Creek and Lake Creek) with potential habitat for white-headed 

woodpeckers, black-backed woodpeckers or pygmy nuthatch, where potential snag habitat 

altering activities (timber harvest, natural fuels treatments, road closures) are proposed. 

Information on snag habitat availability within the analysis area is sparse, but the information 

available indicates that within managed stands, snags between 6 and 16 inches average 13 per 

acre and snags greater than 16 inches average 0.3 per acre. In unmanaged stands, snags 6-16 

inches average 18 per acre and snags greater than 16 inches average 1.0 per acre. 

3

 Flammulated owls usually

Plan ROD concluded that snag retention guidelines established for woodpeckers (white-headed) 

would adequately provide nesting habitat for Flammulated owls, a secondary cavity nester. 
170 Glossary Chapter Eight

Although open stands of large ponderosa pines favored by this species are not abundant on the 

Diamond Lake District, these birds have been documented within the immediate vicinity of the 

analysis area in high elevation lodge pole pine and mixed conifer forest. Much of the analysis 

area fits this description. The 55,782 acres of mature (80 plus years old) forest within 6th field 

sub watersheds with timber harvest or fuels treatments (Bradley Creek, Lemolo Reservoir, 

Thirsty Creek and Lake Creek) are considered to be the affected environment. 

3 E .14.8 NVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - ALTERNATIVE 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5 

DIRECT, INDIRECT, AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

These species were included as Survey and Manage species in the Northwest Forest Plan to 

ensure retention of adequate snag habitat to provide nesting sites for 100% of potential 

populations. One hundred percent potential population translates to 0.12 snags/acre for Blackbacked woodpeckers and 0.6 snags/acre for white-headed woodpeckers. All alternatives will 

meet Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines for retention of snag habitat for these two 

vest and fuel 

t units. This is based on the management requirements and mitigating measures that 

e 

Standards and Guidelines for cavity nesters, black-backed woodpeckers, and white-headed 

he needs of Flammulated owls and pygmy nuthatches. The 

effect to these cavity-nesting species is the same as described earlier in the document for “cavity 

.14.9

Red tree voles are small mammals, which spend almost all of their time within tree canopies of 

ugh they have been documented as occurring within sapling stands, 

st densities are in large limbed old growth. The Biology and Interim Survey Protocol 

uccessional reserves. 

Potential habitat is defined by survey protocol to be coniferous forests with Douglas-fir below 

stands below 6,000 feet in 

elevation are considered to be the affected environment. 

.14.10 E VIRONMENTAL E FECTS - R TREE VOLE (Arborimus longicaudus) 

Surveys for red tree voles were conducted according to protocol during 2000 and 2001. These 

ed tree vole nests within proposed habitat disturbing areas. 

woodpecker species and maintain 100% of potential populations within har

treatmen

deal with snag retention and recruitment, outlined in Chapter 2. There are no published snag per 

acre guidelines for Flammulated owls or pygmy nuthatches. The Forest Plan assumes that th

woodpeckers will provide for t

nesters”. 

3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - RED TREE VOLE (Arborimus longicaudus) 

Douglas-fir stands. Altho

the highe

for the species suggests it was included as a survey and manage species owing to its low 

dispersal distance and a concern for its ability to travel between late s

6,000 feet of elevation. The 51,033 acres of over 80 year old 

As part of the project planning process, the National Forest Management Act (NFMA) directs 

each forest to identify management indicator species, and to evaluate the project in terms of the 

effects it will have on the selected indicator species. The goal of project planning is to ensure 

the maintenance or improvement of habitat for these indicator species, while remaining 

consistent with the multiple-use objectives established by the Umpqua Forest Land and 

Resource Plan, as amended. Indicator species are selected as representatives of a particular 

habitat type. Indicator species may include threatened and endangered species, game species, or 

non-game species of special interest. 

3 N F ED 

 

surveys did not locate any active r
Chapter Eight Glossary 171

3.14.11 ALTERNATIVE 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

Alternatives 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 are expected to have no direct, indirect or cumulative effects to red 

tree voles. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

There are no other known red tree vole populations in the analysis area, and no cumulative 

effects with other ongoing or planned projects in the area are anticipated. 

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - TRITOMARIA EXSECTIFORMIS

This is a species of liv

3.14.12

erwort currently listed as a category B species. This category considers 

rare species and calls for management of all known sites and strategic surveys. This is a very 

re speci with o y 14 known sites on forest service lands within the Pacific Northwest. 

 from around the crest of the Cascades on the Deschutes and Umpqua 

3.14.13

ra es nl

Most sites are known

forests, while a few new sites have been located on the Wenatchee National Forest. Three sites 

were found within the Lemolo Analysis Area near springs, including Battery spring, Crystal 

springs and Spring River. The species occurs on moist rotting logs and hummocks on the edge 

of these clear cold springs. The affected environment for this species is defined as the area 

within or adjacent to known sites including timber sale unit 40 and fuel reduction unit 75. A 

scale encompassing the range of the Northern Spotted Owl is also considered. 

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - TRITOMARIA EXSECTIFORMIS

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

 propose harvesting unit 40 or treating unit 75 for fuel reduction, 

therefore there will not be any negative direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to this species 

3.14.14

This alternative does not

under this alternative. 

ALTERNATIVE 2, 3, 4 AND 5 

DIRECT EFFECTS 

No direct effects will occur to this species due to the implementation of the mitigation measures 

stated for this species in Chapter Two. Alternatives 2 through 5 will implement these mitigation 

measures for unit 75. Mitigation measures include a 300 foot no entry riparian buffer on the 

spring where this species was found during surveys. However, there is a low risk of prescribed 

burning getting out of control and running through the riparian areas where this species is 

s will occur to this species through 

the loss of populations by fire consumption and/or burning snags and trees falling on the 

found. If this happens, it is likely that negative direct effect

liverwort population. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS 
172 Glossary Chapter Eight

from increased infiltration and possibly erosion processes caused by the harvest of unit 40. At 

due to increased water volume in Battery Springs from reduced transpiration in unit 40. 

l for indirect effects from prescribed burning 

if the burn encroaches on the 300 foot buffer. Alterations in canopy cover and microclimatic 

res being implemented. 

Alternatives 2 and 5, but not 3 and 4, include harvest unit 40, proposed for shelterwood harvest. 

There may be indirect effects to this species under alternative 2 or 5 within Battery Springs 

this point it is uncertain to say whether negative indirect affects will occur, but they may occur 

Under alternatives 2, 3, 4 and 5 there is a potentia

conditions from fire burning live trees or hummocks in the riparian would impact this species. 

The assumption is that this will not occur due to the mitigation measu

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

Cumulative effects to Survey and Manage species should be looked at based on the NWFP and 

its guidelines for maintaining persistence of a given species across the range of the Northern 

Spotted Owl. There are currently 14 known sites of this species within the NWFP area 

S database. The Standard and Guideline mitigation measures of the ROD 

were put in place to minimize cumulative effects to Survey and Manage species, given that 

elines. In addition this species receives protection under the 

Aquatic Conservation Strategy through riparian buffers. Following these guidelines allows us to 

3.14.15

 sites and strategic surveys. This lichen is 

considered quite rare at this point but is assumed to be under collected due to its difficulty in 

 is known about its habitat parameters or distribution. It was 

discovered in a montaine mixed coniferous forest in proposed timber harvest unit number 22. 

3.14.16

according to the ISM

administrative units follow the guid

protect the known sites in Battery Springs, Crystal Springs and Spring River and maintains 

persistence of the species. This in turn with the other known protected sites across the NWFP 

area mitigates’ against cumulative effects to this species. 

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT – CLADONIA NORVEGICA

This is a species of lichen currently listed as a category B species. This category considers rare 

species and calls for management of all known

field identification. Little

The scale of the affected environment for this species is the harvest unit in which it was found. 

A larger scale encompassing the range of the Northern Spotted Owl is also considered. 

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS – CLADONIA NORVEGICA - ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION),

3, 4, AND 5 

DIRECT, INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

These alternatives do not propose unit 22 for harvest or fuel treatment, therefore there will not 

ny negative direct, indirect, or cumulative effects to this species. 

3.14.17

be a

ALTERNATIVE 2 
Chapter Eight Glossary 173

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS 

No direct or indirect effects will occur to this species due to the implementation of the 

mitigation measures stated for this species in Chapter Two. Alternative 2 will implement these 

 a 100 foot radius buffer 

adjacent to primary forest suitable for species dispersal and retention of class 3-5 downed 

-climatic change, substrate loss, and other 

environmental negative effects are not expected due to mitigation. This assumption is based 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

mitigation measures within unit 22. Mitigation measures include

woody material. Indirect effects such as micro

upon information from papers by Chen, Franklin and Spies on the effects forest edge has on 

vegetation,(Chen, Franklin, Spies, 1992 & 1993) 

Cumulative effects to Survey and Manage species should be looked at based on the NWFP and 

s guidelines for maintaining persistence of a given species across the range of the Northern 

tly 26 known sites of this species within the NWFP area 

according to the ISMS database. The Standard and Guideline mitigation measures of the ROD 

ulative effects to Survey and Manage species given that 

administrative units follow the guidelines. Following the guidelines allows us to protect the 

3.14.18

 and strategic surveys. This is a corral 

gus, which s been collected from numerous sites on our district since beginning fungi 

o sites were found incidentally while surveying for lichens and 

ber harvest unit 25 and one in unit 11. This is a mycorrhizal 

3.14.19

DIRECT, INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

it

Spotted Owl. There are curren

were put in place to minimize cum

known site in unit 22 and maintains persistence of the species. This in turn with the other 

known protected sites across the NWFP area mitigates’ against cumulative effects to this 

species. 

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT – RAMARIA RUBRIEVANESCENS

This is a species of fungus currently listed as a category B species. This category considers rare 

species and calls for management of all known sites

fun ha 

surveys in fall 1999. Tw

bryophytes. One in proposed tim

forming species occurring in drier Douglas Fir (Psuedotsuga menziesii), Mt. Hemlock (Tsuga 

mertensiana), Western White Pine (Pinus monticola) and Shasta Red Fir (Abies magnifica var. 

shastensis) coniferous forest types. The scale at which this species is analyzed for affected 

environment is site specific within the harvest units it was found in. A scale encompassing the 

range of the Northern Spotted Owl is also considered. 

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) 

efore there 

 indirect, or cumulative effects to this species. 

3.14.20 ALTERNATIVE 2, 3, 4 AND 5 

This alternative does not propose units 11 or 25 for harvest or fuel treatment, ther

will not be any negative direct,
174 Glossary Chapter Eight

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS 

 No direct or indirect effects will occur to this species due to the implementation of the 

mitigation measures stated for this species in Chapter Two. Alternatives 2, 3, 4, and 5 will 

cies dispersal and retention of class 

3-5 downed woody material. Indirect effects such as micro-climatic change, substrate loss, and 

ffects are not expected due to mitigation. This assumption is 

based upon information from papers by Chen, Franklin and Spies on the effects forest edge has 

implement these mitigation measures within units 11 and 25. Mitigation measures include a 100 

foot radius buffer adjacent to primary forest suitable for spe

other environmental negative e

on vegetation, (Chen, Franklin, Spies, 1992 & 1993). 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

Cumulative effects to Survey and Manage species should be looked at based on the NWFP and 

its guidelines for maintaining persistence of a given species across the range of the Northern 

Spotted Owl. There are currently 50 known sites of this species within the NWFP area 

according to the ISMS database. The Standard and Guideline mitigation measures of the ROD 

rvey and Manage species, given that 

administrative units follow the guidelines. Following the guidelines allows us to protect the 

3.15

E

low elevation Oak Savannah ecotypes, disjunct on the Tiller Ranger District. No 

table habitat e thin s analysis area for this species. Sensitive plants were surveyed 

alysis Area and none were located. For more information see 

 attac d Biolo cal Evaluation (BE) in Appendix A. 

.15.2

.16

gement Act (NFMA) makes reference to the need to conserve native 

cies divers sis area scale. The analysis area is considered the area 

 

were put in place to minimize cumulative effects to Su

known site in units 11 and 25 and maintains persistence of the species. This in turn with the 

other known protected sites across the NWFP area mitigates’ against cumulative effects to this 

species. 

THREATENED, ENDANGERED, AND SENSITIVE PLANT SPECIES 

3.15.1 AFFECTED NVIRONMENT

 There are no Endangered and one Threatened plant species on the Umpqua National Forest, 

Lupinus sulphureus ssp. kincaidii or Kincaids Lupine. Kincaids Lupine is a Willamette Valley 

endemic of 

sui xists wi thi

for within the entire Lemolo An

the he gi

3 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

Since there are not any known Threatened, Endangered or Sensitive plant sites within the 

ination of “No Effect” can be made.5 analysis area a determ 

3 RARE PLANT SPECIES 

The National Forest Mana

spe ity based on an analy

covered by the Umpqua National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan (LRMP). Three 

botanical species occur within the Lemolo Analysis Area that are considered rare on lands 

5

 A detailed description can be found in the Biological Evaluation in Appendix A. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 175

managed by the Umpqua National Forest. Persistence of these species is analyzed at the sitespecific scale because so little information is known or documented about their habitat across 

the landscape. 

.16.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - BUXBAUMIA APHYLLA

 Thi r the first time on the Umpqua Forest and was found within 

proposed timber harvest unit 28. This species is currently listed in the Oregon Natural Heritage 

3.16.2

DIRECT EFFECTS 

3

s moss is being reported fo

Program (ONHP) as a category 3, which states there is inadequate information at the current 

time to consider it locally endangered or imperiled. The species appears to be restricted to upper 

elevation dry montane forests along the crest of the Cascades. This species was analyzed at the 

site-specific scale only. Proposed timber harvest unit 28 defines the affected environment. 

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - BUXBAUMIA APHYLLA - ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) 

There would be “no direct, indirect or cumulative impact” to any rare plant species under this 

alternative. 

3.16.3 ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, 4 AND 5 

No direct effects are expected to this species because of the mitigation measures that are being 

implemented as stated in the Best Management Practices in chapter 2. Mitigation measures 

include protecting the site with a 100 ft. radius no entry buffer. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

No indirect effects will occur to this species since the buffers should provide for persistence. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS 

A sc o

little information exists a

site specific ale is c nsidered to gage cumulative effects to this species. This is because so 

bout this organism’s biology and ecology. Currently only 5 known 

sites of this moss occur on the Umpqua National Forest. Past and present projects in this 

3.16.4

rian buffer 

his sp ies was on consid ed rare and 

watershed have had no impacts on the current sites. The site in unit 28 of LPA will be protected 

as stated earlier. This site represents the affected environment of this species and will not see 

cumulative effects as it is anticipated it will persist after the harvest is completed. 

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - PELTIGERA HYDROTHYRIA (SYN.=Hydrothyria venosa)

(GREEN PHOTOMORPH) 

 This aquatic lichen was discovered growing in a perennial stream within the ripa

adjacent to natural fuels reduction unit number 74. T ec ce er

listed in the original ROD as a category 1 & 3 species. It has since been removed due to 

numerous new localities and its obligation to perennial streams, leaving it protected by riparian 

buffers. The reason for listing it here is because the specimen found is unique from typical 

specimens in thallus and vein color. The specimen collected was at first thought to be a new 

species or variety to science. After in depth genetic analysis and opinions from experts in the 
176 Glossary Chapter Eight

field, the specimen has been considered a photomorph of the typical species. It is not considered 

a separate species at this time. This species was analyzed at the site-specific scale. The affected 

environment is the 300 foot riparian area adjacent to natural fuels reduction unit number 74. 

 venosa)

 (Green Photomorph) 

DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS

3.16.5 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - PELTIGERA HYDROTHYRIA (SYN.=Hydrothyria

oss of populations by 

fire consumption and/or burning snags and trees falling on the lichen population. It is unknown 

ulation would persist and re-colonize the area after burning. 

TIVE EFFECTS

No direct effects will occur to this species due to the implementation of the mitigation measures 

for unit 74, stated for this species in Chapter Two. Mitigation measures include a 300 foot 

riparian buffer on the spring where this species was found during surveys and no prescribed 

burning within the buffer. However, there is a low risk of prescribed burning getting out of 

control and running through the riparian areas where this species is found. If this happens, it is 

likely that negative direct effects will occur to this species through the l

if the pop

CUMULA

re not expected to lead to cumulative effects, as the mitigation stated in chapter 2 

will adequately protect this site. 

.16.6

is still considered a rare 

flora. This species occupies open forested areas often consisting of 

 contorta var. latifolia) but can also be found in moist meadow areas 

where Lodge pole Pine is the dominant tree species. Proposed units 50, 53, 63 and 64 define the 

3.16.7

The scale used to determine cumulative effects to this lichen species are based on the affected 

environment, which is the 300 foot riparian buffer. Due to the fact that very little information is 

available about this species habitat and biology it is difficult to gage cumulative effects to the 

species across the landscape. Culminations of past and present projects in this watershed have 

not thus far affected this site. Therefore affects from past disturbance coupled with the proposed 

treatment a

3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - Asarum wagneri (GREEN FLOWERED GINGER) 

This vascular plant was found in units 50, 53, 63 and 64 within the Pumice Flats area of the 

analysis area. This species was recently removed in the latest update of the Region 6 

Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive species list. However as it stands right now there are 

only a dozen or so known sites on the Umpqua National forest and it 

aspect of the Umpquas 

Lodge pole Pine (Pinus

affected environment. 

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - Asarum wagneri (GREEN FLOWERED GINGER) 

DIRECT EFFECTS

Although mitigation measures will be implemented, some direct effects will still occur to this 

species. This is due to the fact that the units it occurs in will be seed tree harvested. Because the 

plant is growing throughout the units not all sites will be covered by the leave group mitigation 

measure stated in chapter 2. Direct effects to this species include trampling, covering with slash, 

and other impacts associated with routine logging operations. Units 50, 53, 63 and 64 are 
Chapter Eight Glossary 177

involved. These populations of Green Flowered Ginger may persist after harvest, as this species 

is known to be associated with disturbance regimes such as frequent fire. 

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Indirect effects may occur to some parts of these populations through changes in habitat 

 Although this species can tolerate certain 

levels of disturbance there is a threshold. Extreme changes in canopy cover will lead to drier 

conditions from increased light and humidity levels.

conditions allowing direct sunlight to burn or scorch plants especially from mid July through 

August. The sites in units 50, 53, 63 and 64 will see loss of individuals but it is probable that the 

populations as a whole will survive especially with the implementation of the mitigation 

measures. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

 Currently there are about a dozen or more known sites of this species on the Umpqua National 

Forest. These sites are protected from extirpation and are only susceptible to loss through 

tive effects to its populations. 

.17.1 ONMENT

sus scoparius) 

is a perennial native to Western Europe, which has established itself very well in lower valleys 

sis area is not optimum for Scotch Broom to disperse because of the high 

elevation, porous soils and low temperatures for much of the year. Medusa head Rye 

.17.2 CTS - NOXIOUS WEEDS

natural wildland fire. Past and present projects have not and will not affect these sites. The sites 

within units 50, 53, 63 and 64 will be impacted but not to the extent that the species, as it stands 

on the UNF, will see significant cumula

3.17 NOXIOUS WEEDS 

3 AFFECTED ENVIR

 The scope of analysis considered for noxious weeds is the area known as the Lemolo Analysis 

area (LAA). Four noxious weed species have been documented within the LAA. St. Johnswort 

(Hypericum perforatum) is a perennial non-native from Europe that is well established on the 

Diamond Lake Ranger District. It occupies many roadsides, landings and other bare ground 

areas within the analysis area. Only limited treatment through manual means is occurring at this 

time on the Diamond Lake Ranger District. Spotted Knapweed (Centaurea maculosa), an 

Eurasian introduced plant, is perennial and very aggressive. Currently this plant is in very 

limited numbers within Douglas County and is a high priority for extirpation from the county. 

Only one site has been documented in the analysis area. Herbicide treatment for this species is 

currently being analyzed through a separate NEPA process. Scotch Broom (Cysti

of Oregon. This analy

(Taeinatherum caput-medusae) has been found sporadically across the planning area. This grass 

species has invaded large areas of land in the Great Basin east of the Cascades but has not yet 

firmly established itself here in the west Cascades. In general the harsh edaphic factors keep the 

number of any non-native plants to a minimum within this analysis area when compared to 

other watersheds on the Diamond Lake Ranger District. 

3 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFE

 As stated in the Affected Environment chapter it is difficult for noxious weed’s to establish in 

this particular physiographic region. This is due to harsh climatic variation, porous pumice soils 

and a heavy persistent snow-pack. As evidenced by the lack of weeds found during surveys, this 
178 Glossary Chapter Eight

area even though a recreational hot spot, is not considered an area at risk from noxious weeds. 

The exception however is Spotted Knapweed, which has established itself very well in Northern 

Idaho and Northwestern Montana in similar type conditions as the Lemolo Analysis Area. 

3.17.3

.17.4 ALTERNATIVE 2, 3, 4 & 5 

DIRECT EFFECTS

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) 

Under Alternative 1 (No Action), there will be no direct, indirect or cumulative impacts from 

this project to the spread of noxious weeds within the analysis area. Noxious weeds would 

continue to spread at the current rate. 

3

DIREC EFFECTS

Direct effects to the spread of the noxious weeds listed in the affected environment chapter are 

minimal to none with the exception of St. Johnswort and Medusahead Rye. Known populations 

of St. Johnswort and Medusahead Rye have been found within areas proposed for mechanical 

activity. There is high likelihood that actions relating to this project will contribute to the spread 

of these two species in the immediate areas of disturbance. Most of these areas are along road 

corridors and old landings and other fallow ground areas. No sites were found within proposed 

harvest or fuel treatment units. However it is likely that these species will spread into harvest 

and fuel units after the canopy is more open and bare ground is available for colonization. 

Mitigation will include noxious weed treatment post activity for up to five years. 

IN T 

 Indirect affects such as catalyzing seed dispersal, opening new fallow ground, and disturbing 

existing seedbeds are likely. This project may cause indirect effects, which may lead to 

increased noxious weeds in the analysis area, especially of Medusahead Rye and St. Johnswort. 

It is likely that these two species will colonize and, over time, replace existing native plant 

communities. However mitigation measures in the BMP sections of each alternative will be 

implemented in order to alleviate as much noxious weed spread as possible. 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

At the analysis area scale this project is not expected to increase noxious weeds to a level where 

a cumulative impact would be detrimental to the watershed. There is potential if Spotted 

Knapweed were further dispersed through this project to cause negative cumulative affects 

within the entire watershed but sufficient measures will be in place to hold this possibility to a 

ojects in conjunction with the Lemolo 

PA will see increased noxious weed infestation and spread. However, none of the high priority 

.18 TRANSPORTATION 

minimum. 

 Other actions within this watershed include Lemolo Fire Hazard Reduction, Electric Salvage 

timber sale, pre-commercial thinning, Bearpaw timber sale and Gigawatt timber sale. All these 

actions have potential to spread noxious weeds however it is difficult to assess the outcome and 

affects of potential weed spread. Cumulatively these pr

species are expected to increase in population size from these actions. 

3
Chapter Eight Glossary 179

 ROAD USERS

Current users of the 136.45 miles of system roads within the analysis area are primarily grouped 

into three categories, administrative, commercial and recreation as denoted in the Road 

thought of as other than government employees conducting daily commerce activities 

at ramps etc. 

Management Objectives (RMOs). Administrative users are typically Forest Service employees 

acting in and official capacity, such as contract inspectors, timber sale administrators, law 

enforcement officers, etc., conducting day-to-day work activities. Commercial users are usually 

(delivering goods and services) in, adjacent to, or out of the National Forests. Forest 

transportation systems can be thought of as a link in the over-all chain of existing transportation 

systems available to the public within the State of Oregon. Recreation users are typically people 

who use the Forest transportation system to access and use trails, trailheads, campsites, 

interpretive sites, heritage sites, waterways, dams, docks, bo

ROADS ANALYSIS PROCESS

In January 2002, the Forest Service outlined details of the agency’s final Road management 

Policy. The policy relies upon scientific analysis and public involvement at the local level. It is 

designed to help the Forest Service determine how best to manage at the local level. It is 

designed to help the Forest Service determine how to best manage the more than 380,000 miles 

.18.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT

 Analysis Area contains 136 miles of roads and 67 miles of summer trails. Roads by 

maintenance level and road numbers within the LAA are displayed in Table 24, under the no 

action alternat ted environment for 

is the entire Lemolo 5th level watershed. 

3.18.2 VIR - ROA SITY AND RO COMMISSION

 Roads can have num pacts to other natural resource values. The density of roads is often 

or ressed i iles (of road) per square mile of area; miles/sq. 

Road density was analyzed using GIS road data and software. Road density is displayed as 

road. Road density is calculated by taking the total analysis 

area road miles, divided by sub-watershed area acres, and converted into miles per square mile. 

 means to un-build, deactivate, or dismantle a road; the 

denial of use; elimination of travelway functionality, and removal of the road from the Forest 

rn of the road corridor to resource production by natural or 

of roads in the National Forest roads system. A six-step analysis process was developed and 

documented in August 1999 (Miscellaneous Report FS-643). 

 The six-step Roads Analysis process is outlined in the 1999 USDA publication titled Roads 

Analysis: Informing Decisions about Managing the National Forest Transportation System. 

(Misc. Report FS-643, Everest, et.al.) The Watershed-Level Roads Analysis for the Lemolo 

Lake 5th filed watershed is located in Appendix K of this document. The chapters in this report 

follow the six steps for ease of understanding. 

3

The Lemolo

ive, and represent the current condition. The affec

Transportation 

AFFECTED EN ONMENT D DEN AD DE ING

erous im

used as an indicat and exp n terms of m

mile. 

average miles per square mile of 

Road decommissioning/obliteration;

development Road system; retu
180 Glossary Chapter Eight

designed means (‘Guide for Road Closure and Obliteration In The Forest Service’, Technology 

term damage to soil, water and wildlife, and by stabilizing roadway cut and fill slopes by 

3.18.3

and Development Program, 7700 Engineering, June 1996). 

The goals of road decommissioning are to improve watershed health by closing roads to 

vehicular traffic and reducing impacts to wildlife. “Improving watershed health is accomplished 

by improving road drainage through re-establishing drainage patterns thus reducing the longplanting with native vegetation.’ (FY 2000 budget Justification Paper, USDA-Forest Service, 

pages 232-233). 

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - IMPACTS TO TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS, ROAD 

DENSITY

 The Forest Plan sets an upper limit on inventoried aquifer lands of 5 percent of the land area in 

roads, or 5.3 miles of road per square mile. There are 136.45 miles of road in the Lemolo 

Watershed Projects analysis area. This equates to a density of 1.14 miles per square mile in the 

entire 5th Level Watershed. Excluding the wilderness and OCRA land allocations within the 

watershed, the density is 3.03 miles per square mile. This density is lower than the surrounding 

watersheds. 

Table 23 lists the road densities by 6th Level Sub-watershed within the Lemolo 5th Level 

Watershed. 

Table 16 - Road Density by 6th Level Sub-watershed 

6th Level Subwatershed Acres Square Miles Road Miles Road Density 

Mi/Sq Mi 

Bradley Creek 11,600 18.13 19.36 1.07 

Calamut Lake 11,960 18.68 55.70 2.98 

Lake Creek 23,610 36.89 43.25 1.17 

N. Umpqua Hdwtrs 14,370 22.45 0 0 

Thirsty Creek 15,360 24.00 18.14 0.76 

Totals 76,900 120.16 136.45 1.14 

3.18.4 ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION) 

 This alt n, no decommissioning, and therefore does 

not change the current road density. 

3.18.5 ALTER

 Alternative 2 will construct 3.17 miles of new road. There will be 6.73 miles of road 

decomm

they be nstruction/maintenance will occur. 

Road density within the analysis area (Lemolo 5th Level Watershed) will be reduced from a 

cur t 

Alternative 3 will construct 2.46 miles of new road. There will be 0.28 miles of road 

le. A total of 19.55 miles of road reconstruction/maintenance will occur. 

ernative proposes no new road constructio

NATIVES 2, 3, 4 AND 5 

issioning using KV funds and 3.84 miles of decommissioning with other funds when 

come available. A total of 51.29 miles of road reco

ren road density of 1.14 miles of road per square mile to 1.05 miles of road per square mile. 

decommissioning using KV funds and 9.76 miles of decommissioning with other funds when 

they become availab
Chapter Eight Glossary 181

Road density within the analysis area (Lemolo 5th Level Watershed) will be reduced from a 

curr t 5 miles of road per square mile. 

 Alte a e will be 2.14 miles of road 

decommissioning using KV funds and 7.96 miles of decommissioning with other funds when 

they ction/maintenance will occur. 

Road density within the analysis area (Lemolo 5th Level Watershed) will be reduced from a 

curr t .08 miles of road per square mile. 

 Alte a will be 2.29 miles of road 

decommissioning using KV funds and 7.96 miles of decommissioning with other funds when 

construction/maintenance will occur. 

Road density within the analysis area (Lemolo 5th Level Watershed) will be reduced from a 

 

3.18.6

s Maintenance Handbook, and 6-95). Briefly stated: 

igned to roads open and maintained for travel by a prudent 

driver, in a standard passenger car. User comfort and convenience are not considered to 

: 

• Maintenance level 2 roads, totaling 34.03 miles (25%) 

• nance roads, 22.56 m 6.5%) 

• nance roads, 1.38 miles (1%) 

en road density of 1.14 miles of road per square mile to 1.0

rn tive 4 will construct 2.97 miles of new road. Ther

 become available. A total of 19.37 miles of road reconstru

en road density of 1.14 miles of road per square mile to 1

rn tive 5 will construct 2.95 miles of new road. There 

the become available. A total of 38.10 miles of road re

current road density of 1.14 miles of road per square mile to 1.08 miles of road per square mile. 

AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - ROAD MAINTENANCE LEVELS

Maintenance Levels (ML) defines the level of service provided by, and maintenance required 

for a specific road, consistent with road management objectives and maintenance criteria (FSF 

7709.58, Forest transportation System

• Maintenance Level 1 is assigned to intermittent service roads during the time they are 

closed to vehicular traffic, the closure period is typically one year or longer. Basic 

custodial maintenance is performed. 

• Maintenance Level 2 is assigned to roads open for use by high clearance vehicles. 

Passenger car traffic is not a consideration 

• Maintenance Level 3 is ass

be priorities. 

• Maintenance Level 4 is assigned to roads that provide a moderate degree of user 

comfort and convenience at moderate travel speeds. 

• Maintenance Level 5 is assigned to roads that provide a high degree of user comfort and 

convenience at moderate travel speeds. 

Within the Lemolo Analysis Area there are 136 miles of roads comprised of the following 

maintenance levels

• Maintenance level 1 roads, totaling 55.92 miles (41%) 

Mainte level 3 totaling iles (1

Mainte level 4 totaling
182 Glossary Chapter Eight

• nance roads, 22.56 m 6.5%) 

3.18.7 ENVIRONMENTAL TS – ROA AINTENANCE

 Prior to 1 0, road ance in atershed was accomplished using several sources of 

funds and people. Timber sale purchasers performed most of the maintenance on level 1, 2 and 

3 roads, while contributing funds towards maintaining the paved and high use roads. 

ic Power and Light, contributed towards the maintenance of 

joint-use roads and performed the maintenance on their exclusive use roads. The Forest Service 

, purchaser road maintenance and contributed funds 

also declined sharply. At the same time, appropriated road maintenance funds declined, forcing 

3.18.8

While alternative 1 proposes no additional new road construction, it also does not propose to 

 roads with the same groups of road maintenance activities 

dway and surfacing, vegetation, drainage, structures, and signs and traffic control) typically, 

s; ML roads more costly 

than ML 3. Table 24 shows total miles of road maintenance by maintenance level that would 

Mainte level 5 totaling iles (1

EFFEC D M

99 mainten the w

PacifiCorp, then known as Pacif

funded a road maintenance crew through appropriations and collections to perform the 

maintenance on multiple use roads. 

When timber harvest declined in the 1990’s

shrinkage of the district road crew size and capability. Currently, the District shares one road 

grader with two other Districts, alternating months of availability. Annual road maintenance is 

limited primarily to level 3, 4, and 5 roads, which are part of the primary road system identified 

in the Forest’s Access and Travel Management Plan. 

ALTERNATIVES 1 (NO ACTION) 

decommission any existing system roads. The current condition will therefore persist. Currently, 

it is estimated that 73 miles of maintenance Level 1 and 2 roads are not being fully maintained 

within the analysis area and are in an accumulated deferred maintenance status. When 

comparing maintenance costs of

(roa

maintenance costs are greater as the maintenance level number increase

occur in each alternative. Alternative 1lists total miles of maintenance level roads that exist in 

the analysis area. 

Table 17 - Resultant Road Maintenance Levels by Alternative (Total Miles) 

Alternative 

1 (Current 

Condition) 

Alternative

2 

Alternative 

3 

Alternative 

4 

Alternative 

5 

ML 1 55.92 15.63 6.44 7.05 8.91 

ML 2 34.03 14.97 6.24 8.88 9.23 

ML 3 22.56 21.14 6.65 7.86 16.94 

ML 4 1.38 -0- -0- -0- -0- 

ML 5 22.56 -0- -0- -0- -0- 

136.45

TOTAL 

 51.74 19.33 23.79 35.08 

3.18.9 ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, 4, AND 5 
Chapter Eight Glossary 183

 Alternatives with the greatest increase in new system road construction would cause a slight 

increase in overall maintenance activities over the long term. Alternative 2, 3, 4 and 5 would 

increase system road miles only with ML 1 roads. The miles of ML 2, ML 3, ML 4 and ML 5 

would not change under these alternatives. 

ML 1 roads typically are closed, and have the least maintenance costs of all roads, since only 

basic custodial maintenance is performed on these roads when in a closed status. Closed status 

occurs when entrance closures are installed and no vehicular traffic is allowed. When open, 

Overall, the miles of road to be maintained, for Alternatives 2, 3, 4 and 5, would decrease from 

 between alternatives is the 

ML 1 roads being proposed for new construction (and subsequently part of the permanent road 

aintenance). 

.18.10 LESS AREAS

ional issue in 1972 when the Forest Service initiated a 

review of certain areas of National Forest System Lands (NFSL) greater than 5,000 acres to 

 and Evaluation (RARE). This initial 

process (sometimes referred to as RARE I) identified lands meeting certain criteria for 

environment for Appendix “C” Road less Areas is the 2,644 acre 

Mt. Bailey and 2,301 acre Thirsty Appendage Road less Areas. 

.18.11 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS - APPENDIX “C” ROAD LESS AREAS

ied during the 1980 RARE II review process. Thirsty Appendage is 

located entirely within the Lemolo Lake analysis area and Mt Bailey is partially located within 

re are no activities proposed in these Road less Areas. Therefore, there is 

no effect to Inventoried Road less Areas in all alternatives, as defined by Appendix C of the 

3.19

.19.1 E NT 

f Historic Places are within the areas of 

these roads accommodate high-clearance vehicles with a single purpose, typically commercial 

haul of forest products. When ML 1 roads are operational, their ML status goes to a ML 2, 

requiring the user to perform appropriate maintenance work prior to use, commensurate to a ML 

2 rating. 

the current condition, due to road decommissioning. The difference

system requiring m

3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - APPENDIX “C” ROAD

Road less area management became a nat

determine their suitability for inclusion in the National Wilderness Preservation System. This 

planning process was called Road less Area Review

wilderness lands. The affected 

3

Two Road less Areas (Thirsty Appendage and Mt Bailey) located in or partially in the Lemolo 

analysis area, were identif

the analysis area. The

Forest Plan, as amended. 

HERITAGE RESOURCES 

3 AFFECTED NVIRONME

 The affected environment for the heritage resource falls within the areas of proposed ground 

disturbing activities (timber harvest and associated activities; road construction, reconstruction, 

and decommissioning; subsoiling; natural fuels treatment; and helicopter landing construction). 

Heritage resources include pre-historic and historic sites and features. Appropriate heritage 

resource surveys were conducted within the Lemolo Watershed Projects analysis area. No 

properties potentially eligible for the National Register o

ground disturbing activities. 
184 Glossary Chapter Eight

consultation with the Confederated Tribes of 

the Grand Ronde Community, Confederated Tribes of Siletz and Cow Creek Band of the 

Umpqua Tribe of Indians regarding traditional cultural properties. No traditional cultural 

tribes. 

- ALTERNATIVES 1 (NO ACTION) 

Previous cultural studies completed on the Diamond Lake Ranger District included portions of 

the Lemolo Analysis area. These studies included 

properties were identified through consultation with the 

3.19.2 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 

 DIRECT EFFECTS

There would be no direct effect on heritage resources. 

 INDIRECT AND CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

The no action alternative may lead to damage to historic properties due to the risk of high 

intensity fire occurrence under the current fire regime. 

3.19.3 ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, 4, & 5 

DIRECT EFFECTS

INDIRECT EFFECTS

Proposed ground disturbing activities will have little potential to affect heritage resources. 

Standard contract provisions will provide for protection of heritage resources discovered during 

project implementation. 

properties due to the reduced 

risk of high intensity fire occurrence. 

Proposed ground disturbing activities will have little potential to affect heritage resources 

outside of the area of the proposed project impact or implementation time frame. Project 

implementation may reduce the potential of damage to historic 

CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

There are other activities planned or occurring within the Lemolo Analysis Area boundary that 

have the potential to impact heritage resources; they are the Gigawatt Timber Sale, Electric 

Salvage, Bearpaw Timber Sale, and Lemolo Fuels Reduction. These projects received review 

for heritage resources as part of the NEPA process and it was determined the ground disturbing 

3.20

3.20.1 FFECTED NVIRONMENT

activity had little potential to effect heritage resources. 

Potential effects from ongoing operation and maintenance of Lemolo Lake Lodge and/or 

PacifiCorp’s hydroelectric facilities, and ongoing recreation uses will not create cumulative 

effects on heritage resources with the additional activity associated with Lemolo Analysis area’s 

proposed projects. 

LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND ECONOMICS 

A E
Chapter Eight Glossary 185

fected 

environment for this analysis is Douglas County, Oregon. 

 Tim er and wood products businesses employ a large percentage of Douglas County's 

workforce. The Oregon Labor Market Information System (OLMIS) displays forestry and wood 

products manufacturing as 17.7% of the county’s employment in 2000. During the past 25 years 

mor c products and logging 

sectors has declined (Stevenson 2001). The average wage paid in these sectors, however, is 

muc le e wage (see Table 26). Average earnings 

per job has dropped from $31,080 in 1970 to $25,724 in 2000 in Douglas County (Sonoran 

2003). 

 Tot s at 760 mmbf/year (Ragon 2003). Recently, local 

mills have increased imports from Canada and travel further for raw log supply. In addition, two 

mill a acity of 283,000 cubic meters, or about 18.3 

mmbf (Spelter 2002). Reduction in timber available from Federal land is given as one factor for 

thes c

 Des e as County continues to rely on the 

lumber and wood products industry as a major component of its economic health. About a third 

of t o ber and wood products sectors, 

according to the economic impact analysis data in Appendix C. 

Recreation in the watershed is concentrated around Lemolo Lake and the developed 

is estimated at about 1/3 of capacity and these 

sites are filled to capacity about two days per year. Information from surveys done in the 1990’s 

people spend the most for private lodging, transportation and food. For 

respondents to the survey who reported spending some money on recreation during a typical 

n 2001 dollars). Diamond Lake visitors spent significantly more 

on average than visitors to the rest of the Forest: $2,385 per year (Burns 2002). 

 of the planetary life 

system and have attempted to quantify these functions under the general term 

 principles of accounting for such things are 

only beginning to be developed. The goal, however, is to understand the true value of the 

m of “natural capital”, the biological structures that provide these critical 

services (Hawken et al. 1999). Ecosystem services in the Lemolo watershed may include: 

 

• Purification of air and water 

Most timber sales from the Umpqua National Forest and Diamond Lake District are purchased 

and operated by individuals and companies based in Douglas County. Therefore, the af

b

e e onomic diversification has occurred, and employment in the wood

h ss than the timber and wood products averag

al mill capacity in Douglas County stand

s h ve closed within the last 3 years with a cap

e a tions. 

pit the trend of declining timber production, Dougl

he verall industrial output in 1999 was related to the tim

campgrounds. Four developed campgrounds with 94 campsites around Lemolo Lake average 

$31,000 in direct revenue per year. The total use 

show about 25% of recreation visitors to the Lemolo Lake area are from Douglas County, with 

another 40% from southwest Oregon (Evans 1998). 

A 2000-2001 study of recreation on the Umpqua National Forest by Robert Burns of the 

University of Florida asked questions about spending in relation to recreation on the Forest. 

According to the study, 

year, the average was $2,055 (i

Natural resource economists have, in recent years, have begun to focus on another aspect of 

resource management, which sees ecosystems as essential components

support 

“ecosystem services.” Direct relationships and clear

standing timber as a for
186 Glossary Chapter Eight

etoxification and decomposition of wastes 

• Pro of strea nels and banks from erosion during high water 

• Protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays 

• Mo of loc her pat d their 

Provision of aesthetic beauty an ectual st tion t the hum

 fr . Daily et al., Ecosystem Services: Benefits Supplied to Huma ietie by 

l Eco stems, ESA: Issues in Ecology) 

 Many of these are global sorts of concerns, such that changes that might occur in the overall 

icture from ns at th would margina , som es approa ero

the same ti e are ocatio ndent - ber stands that m tr

nnel inte rity. This complicates the choice of scale for analys . The watersh scale is he 

smallest tha e m these re scale is t,

described in Chapter 4. 

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFE

ties a it s tion and alternatives would gen ar

economic c d bene he econ alysis in Appendix C describes the meth

sources of data and results of cost/benefit and economic t an 

DIRECT, IN E TS

• Mitigation of droughts and floods 

• Generation and preservation of soils and renewal of their fertility 

• D

• Pollination of natural vegetation 

• Cycling and movement of nutrients 

• Maintenance of some level of biodiversity 

tection m chan

deration al weat terns an impacts 

• d intell imula hat lift an spirit 

 (Adapted om G n Soc s 

Natura sy

p actio is scale be of l value etim ching z . At 

me, som clearly l n depe e.g., tim aintain s eam 

cha g is ed t

t would be m aningful for ost of sources. Where the differen it is 

3.20.2 CTS

 Activi ssociated w h the Propo ed Ac erate v ious 

osts an fits. T omic an ods, 

 impac alysis.

DIRECT, AND CUMULATIV EFFEC

 Cost/Benefit Analysis 

Table 26 contains a summ d comp the costs and benefits associated directly 

the timber harvest and sale area improvements proposed by each alternative.6

Following the columns for Alternatives 3, 4, and 5 in Table 25, are columns that give the 

 

ary an arison of with 

percentage change from the corresponding value for Alternative 2, for ease of comparison. For 

 6

 The complete table with specific costs is in Appendix C. 
Chapter Eight Glossary 187

example, the total volume for Alternative 3 is 68.7% less than in Alternative 2. Alternatives 4 

and 5 show a 54.2 % and 25.9% reduction in volume from Alternative 2, respectively. 

 

The standard criterion for deciding whether a government program can be justified on economic 

principles is net present value (NPV) – the discounted monetary value of expected net benefits 

Table 18 – Value Change Between Alternatives 

(OMB A-94). The results of the analysis show that NPV is correlated positively and 

proportionally with the amount of timber volume harvested. Alternative 2 has the highest NPV 

and Alternative 3 the lowest. A sensitivity analysis for discount rate in the Economic Analysis 

Report in Appendix C shows very little change in NPV due to changes in the discount rate used. 

Alt 2 Alt 3 

Percent Change From Alt 2 

Alt 4 

Percent Change From Alt 2 

Alt 5 

Percent Change From Alt 2 

Timber Volu

(MBF) 

me 27,735 8,670 -68.7 12,697 -54.2 20,550 -25.9

Acres Harvested 1,577 636 -59.7 905 -42.6 1,231 -21.9 

Volume (MBF)/Acre 17.6 13.6 14.0 16.7 

Total NP Benefits 

Gross Benefit $11,480,37 $3,469,179 -69.8 $5,116,4 -55.4 $8,532, -25.7 

1 38 548 

Value/MBF $414 $400 -3.4 $403 -2.6 $415 +0.3 

Value/Acre $7,280 $5,395 -25.9 $5,814 -20.1 $6,931 -4.8 

Total NP Costs 

Total Cost $6,442,032 $1,700,642 -73.6 $2,691,5 -58.2 $4,856, -24.6 

67 507 

Cost BF /M $232 $196 -15.5 $212 -8.9 $236 +1.4 

Cost/Acre $4,085 $2,6,45 -35.2 $3,059 -25.1 $3,945 -3.4 

Net Present Value $5,038,339 $1,768,537 -64.9 $2,424,8

71 

-51.9 $3,676,

041 

-27.1

NPV/MBF $182 $204 +12.7 $191 +5.4 $179 -1.2 

NPV cre /A $3,195 $2,750 -14.0 $2,755 -13.8 $2,986 -6.6 

Stumpage $6,873,433 $2,352,785 -65.8 $3,154,9

23 

-54.1 $4,912,

380 

-28.6

Return to the Treasury $5,683,524 $1,986,775 -65.1 $2,732,4

95 

-52.0 $4,152,

031 

-27.0

B/C Ratio 1.78 2.04 +14.6 1.90 +6.7 1.76 -1.1 

Cost/benefit ratio is not correlated with total volume harvested, but is positively correlated with 

NPV per thousand board feet (MBF). This means that C/B is dependant on the relative 

differences in value/MB mary components of value are 

species and diameter averag discounted 

at r rom $482.1 500.33, l n 4% di e. Logging 

t cos r and clear inate the cost differences, with helicopter 

 

F and cost/MBF by alternative. The pri

(gra f timber. T de) o hese alternatives show e nondelivered log values th

systems are the larges

ange f

t cente

7 to $

ly dom

ess tha fferenc
188 Glossary Chapter Eight

logging by far the most ex tiv e ounts of helicopter 

2%, respectively), and show the lowest C/B ratios. 

f on the is t le c imum 

ed by ogg rk, spos

vered log price. Timber sale purchasers may bid more in a competitive auction. The actual 

.S s dete btr st s m the 

umpage. 

 

Economic Impact Analysis

pensive. Alterna es 2 and 5 hav substantial am

logging (31% and 3

Stumpage is the value o the timber “ stump.” It he timber sa ontract min

value and is determin

deli

 subtracting l ing, road wo and slash di al costs from the 

monetary return to the U

st

. Treasury i rmined by su acting all po ale costs fro

 sale may not have significantly changed 

the overall economic activity of the county, since the total assigned sale quantity (ASQ) would 

reated as an 

actual increase in the raw material available for local industry, allowing an increase in 

Other direct, indirect, and induced benefits derive from road construction, reconstruction, 

The numbers in Table 26 are not intended to be absolute. The analysis should be used to 

ring sector was estimated to be 40% of the delivered log price, reflecting the 

ed to saw log and 

veneer production is 75% and 25%, respectively, based on the 1998 data. 

Table 19 - Economic Impact Analysis 

An economic impact analysis was done to describe the effects of each alternative on 

employment and income in the affected environment. In past periods of non-declining, evenflow of timber from federal land, an individual timber

be sold each year. The conditions today and into the foreseeable future are not the same. The 

Umpqua has not sold a consistent level of volume, or levels approaching the potential sale 

quantity (PSQ) in the Forest Plan since 1990. Therefore, new timber sales can be t

production up to the full level of mill capacity. 

Table 26 displays the results of the economic impact analysis by alternative. In general, the 

increase in saw log volume to the local economy would result in increased employment in the 

logging and wood products manufacturing sectors, indirect increases in forestry (slash 

treatment, planting, etc.) and induced increases in many other sectors. The taxes paid to Federal, 

State, and local governments would also increase. 

decommissioning and other sale area improvement work funded by KV. These work activities 

are treated as costs in the benefit/cost analysis since they reduce the revenue to the Treasury, but 

they have economic benefits to the local community since most are contracted services. These 

benefits are included in the economic impact analysis and in the numbers reported in Table 26. 

compare the relative differences of the alternatives. The value of each activity included in the 

impact analysis was estimated from the cost and benefit analysis spreadsheets. An estimate was 

made of the percent of each activity’s value that would be spent locally. The value to the wood 

products manufactu

difference between end product value and log cost to the mill. This difference can be widely 

variable based on mill efficiency and the choice of end products, but it approximates the value 

given for all of Oregon in 1998 (Gebert 2002). The percentage of value assign

Alt 2 Alt 3 Alt 4 Alt 5 

% of County Mill Capacity 3.7% 1.1% 1.7% 2.7% 
Chapter Eight Glossary 189

Change in Total Output +$15,537,700 +$4,659,200 +$7,000,700 +$11,623,300 

Change in Employment +166 +52 +75 +123 

Change in Labor Income +$4,363,200 +$1,326,200 +$1,974,900 +$3,262,100 

Change in Proprietor Income +$895,200 +$298,400 +$407,300 +$649,900 

Chan

Incom

ge in Other Property 

e 

+$2,048,500 +$591,200 +$918,800 +$1,529,600 

Change in Indirect Business 

Taxe

+$372,900 +$113,200 +$167,900 +$277,100 

s 

Change in Value Added +$7,679,700 +$2,329,000 +$3,469,000 +$5,718,700 

 No-Action Alternative 1 is not shown in the table since by definition; it does not change the 

conditions or level of economic activity in the county. This alternative would, however, 

contribute to the decline in the local timber industry, since it would keep federal timber from the 

market. No attempt was made to quantify the impact. 

All values displayed PV and the total amount of 

volume harvested. Alt impact to the local economy, 

and Alternative 3 would provide the least positive impact, except for Alternative 1. 

 Impacts to the om s eati to lternative are difficult to 

quantify. Neg mpacts from s o sale area improvement 

projects on th ld f , oke, and road congestion cause 

people to leave the area or stay home and not recreate. Burns reported that 55% of the visitors 

ities, 

probably proportional to the proximity of the nuisance to camping, hiking, and viewing areas. 

Recreation that involves solitude, such as backpacking in wilderness areas, may be negatively 

. 

 estimated 

and bracketed by a sensitivity analysis. The following assumptions are made: 

11% reduction in direct recreation during the time of sale operations close to Lemolo developed 

he Burns study indicating some people would stay 

home and not recreate on the Umpqua. This does not indicate a reduction in Lemolo Lake 

in Table 26 are positively correlated with N

ernative 2 would provide the most positive 

 local economy fr change in recr on due each a

ative economic i logging, lash disp sal, and 

ese activities wou occur i the noise dust, sm

to the Umpqua would have gone somewhere else to pursue their recreational activity if, for 

some reason, it was not available on the Umpqua and 11% would have stayed home (Burns 

2002). This indicates there would be some shift in use during logging and other activ

impacted in the short run by noise, dust, etc., and in the long run by visual changes. The 

Umpqua study shows 33% of the recreationists engage in wilderness area recreation (Burns 

2002). Since harvest activity does not occur in wilderness, any effects are peripheral and in the 

background. Without surveying users before, during and after logging activities, no real 

estimate of the impact in the Lemolo area is possible

 Other recreational activities such as hunting and berry picking would increase as logging 

occurs, due to the increase in early seral vegetation that provides suitable conditions. Helicopter 

logging is often a novelty in a particular area as well, providing an interesting opportunity to 

watch logs flying. 

Due to the high uncertainty of effects, the impacts of all recreation changes must be

campgrounds. This assumption is based on t

Resort use. 

Proportional Decrease in Yearly Recreation Spending in Douglas County.
190 Glossary Chapter Eight

picking would be estimated by the 

lower bound of sensitivity analysis: 50% of the effect, or 5.5% reduction in total use. This 

due to loss of scenic value and solitude are estimated by the upper bound of 

sensitivity analysis: 150% of the effect, or 16.5% reduction in use. This represents a worst-case 

nd would be felt 

during the years of sale operation. 

25% of Lemolo Lake area recreationists are from Douglas County. 

Potential increases in spending due to hunting and berry 

means that reductions in camping fees and other spending would be partially offset by increases 

in hunting and berry picking. 

Decreases 

scenario. 

Table 27 displays the results of the analysis of recreational economic effects due to reductions 

in use by alternative. The numbers shown are combined direct loss of revenue (camping fees) 

and reduced yearly spending on recreation. These are total yearly numbers a

Table 20 - Recreation Spending Impacts 

Alt 2 Alt 3 Alt 4 Alt 5 

5.5% Reduction $1,594 $692 $810 $928 

11% Reduction $6,017 $2,611 $3,057 $3,504 

16.5% Reduction $8,847 $3,838 $4,495 $5,152 

These numbers represent a very small percentage of the total value added by each alternative: 

Impacts to Ecosystem Services

0.08%, 0.11%, 0.09%, and 0.06%, respectively. This indicates that overall impacts to the 

Douglas County economy from reductions in recreation would probably not be detectable. 

in 

overall project design and resulting consequences. 

Other costs and benefits would accrue in each alternative but are not easily quantified 

IS. As described in the Affected Environment, benefits accrue 

associated with standing timber as natural ecosystems, termed “ecosystem services”. 

Benefit/cost and economic impact analyses are presented from the point of view of resource 

utilization, which sees wood fiber and recreation as market commodities, and weighs the direct 

benefits and costs of producing the commodity and making it available to the local economy. 

The economic principles are fairly well understood and are an important consideration 

monetarily. These include values associated with the transportation system, the opportunity and 

existence values of undisturbed areas and large trees, and the future growth benefits of reduced 

competition in thinned stands. These relationships, including applicable mitigation measures, 

are discussed throughout the DE

 

Direct, Indirect, and Cumulative Effects

Of the ecosystem services listed above, those which are most applicable to the analysis of 

effects include: water quality, flood control, soil productivity, maintenance of biodiversity and, 
Chapter Eight Glossary 191

ic quality, heritage resources and the 

protection of semi-primitive unroaded areas. Impacts to the ability of the watershed to provide 

these services are discussed, both qualitatively and quantitatively, in the appropriate sections of 

this DEIS, in relation to each of these individual resources. 

 A complete list of services could also include the harvest of sustainable commodities in a nondamaging manner, such as those practiced by indigenous pre-technological societies, as well as 

special forest products, like mushrooms, fence posts, firewood, managed berry stands, fish, and 

big game. 

 It is also important to note that stand-replacement fires can reduce ecosystem services in the 

short-term, and some catastrophic fire events, when they burn exceptionally hot, would alter soil 

chemistry and physical properties in ways that limit future productivity for many centuries. 

Thus, steps that are taken in Alternatives 2- 5 to prevent or ameliorate such occurrences would 

tend to maintain and maximize the provision of ecosystem services over time. 

3.21 WETLANDS, PARKLANDS, FARMLANDS, WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS, 

ECOLOGICALLY CRITICAL AREAS AND FLOODPLAINS 

 No parklands, farmlands, ecological critical areas, wetlands, or wild and scenic rivers are within 

or adjacent to the Lemolo 5th Level Watershed and the proposed activities. Units are adjacent 

to the floodplains of various Class III and IV streams. Their floodplains are protected by 

riparian reserves. 

3.22 IRREVERSIBLE AND IRRETRIEVABLE COMMITMENT OF RESOURCES 

 Irreversible commitment of resources results from decisions to use or modify resources that are 

reversible only over a long period of time. The harvest of mature stands and the loss of soil 

productivity would be irreversible in the short term for Alternative 2, 3, 4 & 5. 

 Irretrievable commitment of resources refers to the use of a renewable resource that is lost 

because of land allocations or scheduling decisions. The timber volume lost to stand 

deterioration because of deferred harvest would be irretrievable for Alternative 1 (no action). 

Land taken out of the sustainable timber harvest base in Alternative 2, 3, 4 & 5 due to system 

road and permanent helicopter landing construction would be irretrievable for growing trees. 

3.23 SHORT TERM USES AND LONG TERM PRODUCTIVITY 

 Short-term uses are those that generally occur in less than ten years. Long term refers to a 

period of more than ten years. The relationship between short-term uses (primarily timber 

harvest) and long-term productivity (generally effects on soil and water) has been addressed in 

this chapter under the headings. 

3.24 CONSUMERS, CIVIL RIGHTS, MINORITY GROUPS AND WOMEN 

 None of the alternatives would affect the civil rights of women, Native Americans, or any other 

minority group. The Forest Service supports affirmative action hiring practices. Timber sale 

under the general topic of “the provision of aesthetic beauty and intellectual stimulation that lift 

the human spirit,” recreational opportunities, scen
192 Glossary Chapter Eight

contracts and service contracts for connected actions contain equal employment clauses that 

would protect the right of all employees. The action alternatives would provide raw wood 

materials that would be manufactured into products for consumers. Impact to consumers is 

primarily associated with the effect on timber supply.