WINEMA NATIONAL FOREST

FOREST PLAN MONITORING REPORT

FISCAL YEAR 1995

Prepared By

The Winema National Forest Interdisciplinary Team

August 27, 1996 

Forwarded by: /s/ Jack Sheehan Date: 8/27/96

 Jack Sheehan, Ecosystems Management Staff Officer 

Accepted By: /s/ Bob Castaneda Date: 8/30/96

 Bob Castaneda, Forest Supervisor 

Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report i 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

A. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

Background . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 

Results from Fiscal Year 1994 Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 

B. Organization of this Report by Category . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 

Ecosystem Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 

Forest Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 

Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 

Forest Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 

C. Summary of Recommended Actions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

Ecosystem Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

Mule Deer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 

Elk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 

Fish Habitat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 

Bald Eagle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 

Peregrine Falcon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 

Lost River and Shortnosed Suckers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 

Primary Cavity Excavators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 

Pileated Woodpecker and Other MR Species . . . . . . . . . . 8 

Sensitive Species (other than previously listed) . . . . . . . . . 8 

Plant and Animal Diversity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 

Old Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 

Off-Road Vehicle Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 

Soil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 

Riparian Area Cumulative Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 

Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 

Forest Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 

Developed Recreation Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 

Scenery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 

Range Vegetation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 

Timberland Suitability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

Timber Inventory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

Regeneration Success . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

Timber Harvest Unit Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

Insects and Disease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

Transportation System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 

Forest Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 

Implementation of Standards and Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . 11 

Accomplishment of Outputs and Services . . . . . . . . . . 12 

Budget . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 

D. Summary of Findings and Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 

Ecosystem Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 

Mule Deer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 

Elk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 

Fish Habitat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 

Bald Eagle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 

Peregrine Falcon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 

Lost River and Shortnosed Suckers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 

Primary Cavity Excavators. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 

Pileated Woodpecker and Other MR Species . . . . . . . . . . 16 

Sensitive Species (other than previously listed) . . . . . . . . . 16 

Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report ii 
Plant and Animal Diversity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 

Old Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 

Off-Road Vehicle Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 

Soil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 

Riparian Area Cumulative Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 

Water . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 

Forest Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 

Developed Recreation Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 

Scenery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 

Range Vegetation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 

Timberland Suitability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 

Timber Inventory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 

Regeneration Success . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 

Timber Harvest Unit Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 

Insects and Disease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 

Transportation System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 

Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 

Forest Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 

Implementation of Standards and Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . 22 

Accomplishment of Outputs and Services . . . . . . . . . . 23 

Budget . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 

E. Monitoring Item Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 

Implementation of Standards and Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . 25 

Management Area Acreages . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 

Accomplishment of Outputs and Services . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 

Budget . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 

Developed Recreation Sites . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 

Off-Road Vehicle Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49 

Scenery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 

Mule Deer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 

Elk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 

Fish Habitat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 

Bald Eagle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61 

Spotted Owl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 

Peregrine Falcon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67 

Lost River and Shortnosed Suckers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 

Primary Cavity Excavators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 

Wildlife- Other (Pileated Woodpecker, Northern Three-Toe 

Woodpecker, Goshawk, Pine Marten . . . . . . . 72 

Sensitive Species (other than previously listed) . . . . . . . . . . 74 

Plant and Animal Diversity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79 

Old Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82 

Range Vegetation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84 

Timber Land Suitability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89 

Timber Inventory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91 

Harvest Unit Size . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93 

Regeneration Success . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96 

Insects and Disease . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 

Soil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 

Riparian Area Cumulative Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104 

Water Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107 

Transportation System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Social and Economic Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 

Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report iii 

Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 1 

WINEMA NATIONAL FOREST 

FOREST PLAN MONITORING REPORT

1995 Fiscal Year

A. Introduction

Background

Monitoring and evaluation comprise the management control system for the Forest Plan. They 

provide information to the decision-maker and the public about the progress and results of 

implementing the Forest Plan. Monitoring and evaluation have distinctly different purposes and 

scopes. In general, monitoring is designed to gather the data necessary for evaluation. During 

evaluation, data provided through monitoring are analyzed and interpreted. 

The Forest Plan monitoring plan identifies the key activities and effects to be tracked during 

implementation of the Forest Plan to ensure that activities conform to standards and guidelines 

and that outputs satisfy the objectives of the plan. Key items were selected based upon the 

requirements of NFMA, the importance in relation to resolution of issues (as discussed in the 

Record of Decision) and the likelihood that a deviation found in monitoring would cause a change 

in the Forest Plan. 

The Winema Forest Plan lists 32 separate monitoring elements with over 100 individual 

monitoring questions to be answered during implementation of the Plan. Several of the identified 

questions require long-term monitoring efforts or require an organized research project. These 

questions are not addressed in this report. 

The first monitoring item, "Implementation of Standards and Guidelines," is intended to assure 

that all of the forest-wide and management area standards and guidelines in Chapter 4 of the 

Forest Plan are being properly implemented. It covers important concerns in all areas of Forest 

management. The second monitoring item, "Outputs," includes the key Forest outputs to be 

tracked. It is intended to provide for a quantitative estimate of overall performance in terms of 

direct activities actually accomplished compared with the projections developed for the Forest 

Plan. Additional elements are included for those items that require a forest-wide view for 

appropriate evaluation. Many pieces of information are tracked in accordance with established 

Forest Service direction, but they are not included here because they are not considered key to 

monitoring or evaluating the implementation of this Forest Plan. 

At intervals established in the plan, implementation will be evaluated to determine how well 

objectives have been met and how closely standards and guidelines have been applied. Based on 

this evaluation, the interdisciplinary team (ID Team) shall recommend to the Forest Supervisor 

such changes in management direction, revisions, or amendments to the Forest Plan as are 

deemed necessary. The results of evaluating the information that is gathered in the monitoring 

process will vary depending on the magnitude of the problem and the risk associated with it. The 

Forest Supervisor may take one or several of the following actions as a result of the evaluation 

and recommendations developed by the ID Team: 

1. Take no action, after determining that objectives, standards and guidelines are being 

achieved. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 2 

2. Re-direct District Rangers to improve application of standards and guidelines as projects 

are implemented. This may involve: (1) general direction, (2) specific changes in one or 

several ongoing projects, (3) additional interpretation of standards and guidelines as they 

apply to the problem at hand, or (4) any other action with the intent of ensuring proper 

application of existing Forest Plan guidance. 

3. Modify standards and guidelines or specific management area guidance via a Forest Plan 

amendment. This may involve application of a standard or guideline to a specific 

location or more broadly across the Forest if evaluation determines that the practice is not 

effective or appropriate. 

4. Modify the location of a management area on the ground. Minor changes involving 

boundary adjustments to apply better site-specific information will be monitored to 

determine if cumulative effects require further evaluation. Significant changes in 

management area assignments may be accomplished via a Forest Plan amendment. 

5. Amend the projected schedule of outputs. 

6. Initiate revision of the Forest Plan. This would only occur when the Forest Supervisor 

determines that conditions or demands have changed significantly or when changes in 

RPA policies, goals, or objectives would have a significant effect on Forest programs. 

 This report is a compilation of monitoring results and evaluations developed by resource 

specialists on the Forest. The report includes recommendations for action by the Forest 

Supervisor to deal with problem areas indicated in the evaluation of monitoring results, as 

required by NFMA (36 CFR 219.12[k]). 

Results from Fiscal Year 1994 Monitoring

The 1994 Monitoring Report identified many areas of concern. However, the major 

recommendation was to wait for further guidance from the Forest Plan for the Pacific Northwest 

and the Eastside Ecosystems Management Project before attempting to resolve those issues. This 

recognized that a Forest Plan amendment or revision would be premature while these processes 

were underway. Direction from the Forest Plan for the Pacific Northwest continues to evolve and 

be clarified. No direction has yet been received from the Eastside Ecosystem Managment Project. 

On July 12, 1995, the Forest Supervisor and his Management Team addressed several of the 

recommendations presented in the FY-94 Monitoring Report. Since that time additional efforts 

have been underway. The following summarizes the key results of FY-94 monitoring: 

Elk: Two amendments to the Forest Plan were recommended if further coordination with Oregon 

Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Klamath Tribes deemed them appropriate. The first 

would have included standards and guidelines for elk habitat management if they were 

determined to be necessary. The second would have included the Winema National Forest's share 

of population objectives once they were developed. The Forest Supervisor decided not to amend 

the Forest Plan, but to continue with the recommended coordination efforts. As documented in 

this report (Section E, Monitoring Item Results, Elk), that coordination has continued. Oregon 

Department of Fish and Wildlife has completed draft management objectives for elk, including 

population objectives, as a step toward evaluating the need for standards and guidelines. The 

population objectives for the Winema National Forest have been estimated. The current 

evaluation is that the elk objectives for the Forest are so low that it may not be necessary to 

develop special analysis procedures or standards and guidelines. Nonetheless, the two 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 3 

recommendations from FY-94 remain in the FY-95 report. The intent is to continue coordination 

with Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Klamath Tribe and incorporate the results 

into the Forest Plan when that becomes appropriate. 

Road Management: The road management scheme included in the Forest Plan was not 

approaching target levels in FY-1994 so it was recommended that the Forest proceed to 

implement and enforce the road managment decisions made in the Forest Plan or modify the 

Forest Plan as appropriate. The Forest Supervisor decided not to modify the Forest Plan. 

Instead he provided direction to implement management decisions that were evolving through the 

Access Management Plan, Watershed Analysis and project planning. A key concern is that the 

Forest must provide sufficient road access so that Tribal members can exercise their treaty rights 

while deciding (subject to judicial review) exactly what constitutes sufficient access. Since road 

access levels remain in excess of the levels defined as a cause of concern in the Forest Plan, the 

recommendation remains in this report (Section E, Monitoring Item Results, Accomplishment of 

Outputs and Services, Road Access Type). 

Developed Recreation: The Fiscal Year 1994 report identified major difficulties in pursuing 

Forest Goal 19, "Meet the demand for developed camping", due to the lack of available resources 

(appropriate locations and funding). Thus, it was recommended that the goal be modified. The 

Forest Supervisor recognized the inability of the Forest to pursue this goal and directed that it no 

longer be pursued although the Plan would not be amended at this time. Socio-economic 

monitoring for Fiscal Year 1995 suggests that demands for this type of recreation will continue to 

increase and this issue could become more intense as facilities like the Running Y Ranch and the 

Klamath Tribe's gaming facility open. 

Range: The FY-1994 Monitoring Report identified several deviations from the Forest Plan. 

Three key issues were variations from the schedule for development of Allotment Management 

Plans, increased costs due to added administrative requirements, and lack of planned range output 

levels against which to monitor. The Forest Supervisor decided not to amend the Forest Plan to 

address these issues, but to carry out the necessary modifications (to schedules, costs, and target 

quantities) as necessary in day-to-day operations. Monitoring during 1995 revealed that budgets 

for the range program remained well below the levels needed to carry out planned activities 

insuring that the Forest is no longer capable of completing all Allotment Management Plan 

revisions and updates within the decade. 

Threatened and Endangered Species: The FY-1994 Monitoring Report included a 

recommendation to split habitat improvement reporting for T&E Species from that for other 

species. The Forest Supervisor decided not to amend the Forest Plan and directed that this split 

be displayed in future Monitoring Reports. This was carried out on the output table at the end of 

the "Accomplishments and Outputs" portion of Section E in this report. 

Watershed: The planned output values for watershed improvement work were, and continue to 

be, well below the levels needed, funded and accomplished. It was recommended that the Forest 

Plan be modified to incorporate more realistic estimates of these needs. The Forest Supervisor 

decided not to amend the Forest Plan, but to continue to pursue needed programs without regard 

to the Forest Plan estimates. 

Management Area Boundary Adjustments: Management Area boundary adjustments cause 

the acres allocated to various uses to change. The Forest Monitoring Plan (Forest Plan, page 5-

15) requires the Forest to summarize the changes each year yet this has not been done. The Forest 

Supervisor directed that this comparison be made and included in this Monitoring Report. It is 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 4 

included in Section E, Monitoring Item Results, under Implementation of Standards and 

Guidelines. 

Others: Many other recommendations made in the 1994 report have been implemented without 

further action by the Forest Supervisor. For example, several changes were made in the 

monitoring program including the implementation of a random selection process for Type 2 

reviews and encouragement of broader field input. These changes are reflected in the 

"Implementation of Standards and Guidelines" portion (Section E) of this report. 

Other examples: 

● concerns about public safety at Lake of the Woods have been addressed; 

● work with rural communities across the County has continued; 

● the vegetation inventory has been completed; 

● improvement has been seen in the implementation of best management practices; 

● accessibility surveys led to the creation of accessible campsites at Aspen and Sunset 

Campgrounds at Lake of the Wood. 

Key to preventing long-term resolution of many other issues is the completion of the Eastside 

ecosystem Management Project. If key issues at the regional and national level can be 

appropriately resolved, the Forest Plan can be revised to be more realistic. Until then the 

appropriate context within which to resolve many local issues does not exist. 

B. Organization of this Report by Category

The following discussion focuses on four general topics which are addressed in terms of specific 

monitoring items: 

Ecosystem Health. This topic addresses the key aspects of the ecosystem covered in the 

Winema Forest Plan. The monitoring questions in this grouping generally explore 

maintenance of viability, management effectiveness, and general health of physical and 

biological aspects of the ecosystem. Monitoring items which are used to assess ecosystem 

health include the following: 

 ● Wildlife-Mule Deer 

 ● Wildlife-Elk 

 ● Wildlife-Fish Habitat 

 ● Wildlife-Bald Eagle 

 ● Wildlife-Spotted Owl 

 ● Wildlife-Peregrine Falcon 

 ● Wildlife-Lost River and Shortnosed Suckers 

 ● Wildlife-Primary Cavity Excavators 

 ● Wildlife-Pileated Woodpecker + Other MR Species 

 ● Sensitive Species (other than previously listed) 

 ● Plant and Animal Diversity 

 ● Old Growth 

 ● Off-Road Vehicle Use 

 ● Soil 

 ● Riparian Area Cumulative Effects 

 ● Water 

Forest Resources. This topic addresses the key areas of resource demand covered in the 

Forest Plan. The monitoring questions in this group generally center around the level or 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 5 

quality of the resources or uses demanded from the Forest. Monitoring items used to 

assess this topic include the following: 

● Developed Recreation Sites 

● Scenery 

● Range Vegetation 

● Timberland Suitability 

● Timber Inventory 

● Regeneration Success 

● Timber Harvest Unit Size 

● Insects and Disease 

● Transportation System 

Economy. This topic is described by a single monitoring element, the Social and 

Economic Setting. It is concerned with the economic interaction between Forest 

management activities and the local communities. The monitoring questions cover the 

direct and indirect influence of the management of the Winema National Forest on jobs, 

income, and financial support to Klamath County. 

Forest Plan. This topic concerns itself with the specific objectives stated in the Forest 

Plan. The monitoring questions deal with managing according to Forest Plan Standards 

and Guidelines, providing the services to the public as predicted, and doing this work 

under the budgets calculated. Monitoring items used to assess this topic include the 

following: 

● Implementation of Standards and Guidelines 

● Accomplishment of Outputs and Services 

● Budget 

The remainder of this report is organized in three sections: 

Section C presents the recommendations developed by the resource specialists based upon their 

evaluation of the monitoring results. 

Section D summarizes the findings and trends upon which the recommendations are based. 

Section E presents a complete discussion of each monitoring item that was included in the Forest 

Plan. 

For a quick overview of recommendations and findings, refer to sections C and D. To review the 

monitoring information that was used and see how it led to the findings and recommendations, 

refer to section E. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 6 

C. Summary of Recommended Actions

With five years of monitoring completed, it is time to review all of the collected data and develop 

recommendations to deal with the key difficulties that have been identified. There remains much 

uncertainty with Forest Management Direction. In many cases it has been impossible to manage 

in accordance with the Forest Plan due to legal and administrative exercises. In past years it has 

been recommended that the Forest Plan be modified appropriately as soon as guidance from the 

President's Northwest Forest Plan and the Eastside Ecosystem Management Project is finalized 

and fully litigated. It is recognized that continuing to evaluate monitoring results against 

benchmarks that are likely to change drastically is of relatively little value. It is also recognized 

that attempts to reduce uncertainty with a Forest Plan amendment, before regional and national 

issues are resolved, will be fruitless. At this time, the Northwest Forest Plan is being 

implemented and can be considered firm guidance. The Eastside Ecosystem Management Project 

is still underway and no direction has been received. It is not known when, or if, firm direction 

will come from that effort. 

A general concern of the Forest Interdisciplinary Team is that the expectations presented in the 

Forest Plan have not been achieved even though Standards and Guidelines, as amended, have 

generally been followed. Five years of management under modified guidance has led the Forest 

into a different situation than anticipated in the original Forest Plan. It is now time to bring the 

guidelines of the Forest Plan into alignment with the anticipated outcomes of that management. 

As discussed more fully in the following sections of this report, harvest of timber at levels far 

below the timber sale program quantity called for in the Forest Plan has caused the Forest to be 

unable to meet it goals for mule deer habitat. In addition, the very low level of economic activity 

generated by the low levels of timber harvest have caused many of the shifts in the local economy 

that the Forest Plan was originally designed to avoid. Many individuals and groups have asserted 

that there is significant new information available that would invalidate some of the basis for the 

Forest Plan. For these reasons and others as discussed below, it is now recommended that the 

Forest Plan revision process begin immediately.

 

Recommended actions in each of the four topic areas are as follows: 

Ecosystem Health

● Mule Deer

➤ Test the monitoring model technique that was developed with the Fremont NF 

and ODF&W. 

➤ Increase timber harvest and commercial thinning to provide forage for deer as 

projected in the FEIS. 

➤ Effectively close roads for mitigation of disturbance to deer. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 7 

● Elk

➤ In coordination with ODFW and the Tribes, determine whether elk habitat 

analysis procedures or standards and guidelines are necessary; if it is so 

determined, develop habitat objectives and standards and guidelines for 

elk habitat management east of Hwy 97 for inclusion into the Forest Plan 

as an amendment. 

➤ Coordinate with ODFW and the Tribes to refine the Forest's share of the 

population objectives and include the results in the Forest Plan as an 

amendment. 

 

● Fish Habitat 

➤ Continue stream surveys until all streams are completed and a Forest-wide 

baseline is established. 

➤ Provide funding to analyze already collected invertebrate samples. 

➤ Develop a system for the location and a schedule for collection of aquatic 

invertebrate samples. 

➤ Though changes in stream miles, fish species present, etc. are apparent 

from the survey data compared to the information in the FEIS, no 

amendment or revision is recommended until all streams have been 

surveyed and a baseline established. 

➤ Begin sampling for forest aquatic species described in the Northwest 

Forest Plan (Forest Plan Amendment 9) on a systematic and priority of 

need basis. 

● Bald Eagle 

➤ Continue monitoring efforts with special emphasis on effectiveness of 

management practices in bald eagle replacement habitat. 

➤ Continue development of bald eagle nest site plans. 

 

● Peregrine Falcon 

➤ Collect survey results on the Winema Survey Form 

➤ Survey potential areas every two years. 

● Lost River and shortnosed Suckers

➤ Continue investigation and monitoring so appropriate decisions about 

habitat protection and species recovery can be made. 

➤ Continue to cooperate with the US Fish & Wildlife Service's Ecosystem 

Restoration Office, Natural Resource Conservation Service, and private 

landowners to protect and enhance a key stream system within the 

proposed critical habitat for both Lost River and short nose suckers. 

 

● Primary Cavity Excavators 

➤ Emphasize post-project monitoring for snag levels. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 8 

● Pileated Woodpecker and other MR Species 

➤ Continue monitoring for Forest Plan compliance. 

● Sensitive Species (other than previously listed) 

➤ Report survey results on the Winema Survey Forms, R6 Forms, and 

Oregon Natural Heritage Program (ONHP) Sighting Forms and enter of 

the data into BOTSIS, WILDOBS, and GIS. 

➤ Continue monitoring studies in progress on Collomia mazama and Asarum 

wagneri (Klamath); Bopu (Chemult); Calochortus longebarbatus 

longebarbatus (Chiloquin); and radio-telemetry tracking study on yellow 

rail (Klamath). 

● Plant and Animal Diversity 

➤ Continue documentation of survey results for animal and plant surveys 

on TES survey forms for entry into databases and GIS. 

 

● Old Growth 

➤ Develop attribute-based stand characteristic data base from which any 

definition of "old growth" can be extracted rather than relying on surveys 

to find stands that meet a particular definition. 

 

● Off-Road Vehicle Use

➤ Install traffic management signs prohibiting motorized use at the main 

entry points into the Yamsay Mountain Area. 

➤ Continue to monitor as required by Executive Order. Monitor areas where 

user conflicts may occur. 

➤ Plan designated ORV trails/roads/areas as demand warrants and close 

areas or roads where significant resource damage is occurring or user 

conflicts develop. 

● Soil 

➤ Maintain records of soil conditions on EAs/EISs in progress, on recently 

implemented projects and on older projects to identify remediation needs. 

➤ Determine effectiveness of current mitigation efforts. 

➤ Determine the effect of measured compaction on vegetative growth. 

➤ Study other ecosystem components, such as mycorrhizae and their 

relationship to forest health in the pumice zone in conjunction with the 

Deschutes National Forest and PNW Research. 

● Riparian Area Cumulative Effects 

➤ Fence Rider's Camp meadow again in 1996 with the fence being rebuilt to 

higher standards. Tighten administration to assist the permittee in meeting 

Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 9 

➤ Study Copperfield Draw for a restoration plan to stabilize active headcuts 

in the main channel and revegetation. 

➤ Continue the use of PFC assessments for all projects in and near riparian 

areas. 

➤ Refine the intermittent stream survey protocol based on the field testing 

done by students of Rogue Community College in Grants Pass. 

➤ All intermittent streams on the Forest which are the primary stream in that 

watershed should be surveyed. Priorities would be set for those streams in 

active planning areas. This would tie in with watershed analysis and 

project planning to protect and improve riparian areas across the Forest. 

There is no funding in FY96 to support this project. 

➤ Continue cooperative efforts to improve the situation along Rock Creek in 

the Dams/Switchback Allotment. 

● Water

➤ Implement an adaptation of the Region 5 BMP monitoring system. 

➤ Train all personnel involved in planning of ground disturbing activities 

during FY96. 

➤ Incorporate site specific BMP discussions in all project EAs and develop 

BMP analysis in the project record. 

➤ Insure that BMP's are appropriately incorporated into contract documents. 

➤ Continue WIN Inventory. Obtain funding for WIN restoration projects. 

➤ Districts monitor 50 percent of activities for BMP implementation and 

effectiveness in 1996 and forward this information to the Supervisor's 

Office for incorporation into the FY96 monitoring report. 

➤ Continue monitoring key water quality parameters on Lake of the Woods 

and Miller Lake to establish trends in water quality. 

Forest Resources

● Developed Recreation Sites 

➤ Implement measures to reduce costs and maximize efficiency in site 

operations to maintain the quality of the experience being provided at our 

developed sites. 

➤ Closely monitor the concessionaire's operations at Lake of the Woods and 

require adjustments if needed. 

➤ Implement Meaningful Measures (MM) for all sites on the Forest by the 

end of 1996. 

 

● Scenery 

➤ No recommendations. 

● Range Vegetation 

➤ Continue range analysis and AMP development within budget limitations. 

➤ Follow up on the fencing project(s) to assure that they will achieve 

objectives. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 10 

➤ Rest the Ray Ranch (Hog Creek) portion of the Dice Crane Allotment for 

a period of time to allow riparian vegetation recovery. 

➤ Continue to update the noxious weed site and treatment database. 

➤ Continue to monitor known sites of priority weeds to determine changes in 

distribution. 

● Timberland Suitability

➤ Evaluate potential effects on Allowable Sale Quantity when data from the 

forest inventory becomes available. 

 

● Timber Inventory

➤ Allow the timber inventory to proceed as planned and pursue analysis as 

the information becomes available. 

➤ Continue to salvage excessive lodgepole mortality as it occurs. When the 

new timber inventory is available for use, review the planned harvest 

program in lodgepole pine to see if more of the green lodgepole pine 

should be planned for harvest during this decade. 

● Regeneration Success 

➤ Closely monitor plantations established in FY94 for fill-in planting in 

1996 to ensure reforestation success in 5 years. 

➤ Evaluate those areas of the Lone Pine Fire that are planted on harsh sites to 

determine whether or not understocked areas should be taken out of the 

suitable timber base and if current stocking is acceptable. 

● Timber Harvest Unit Size 

➤ No recommendation. 

● Insects and Disease

➤ Increase stocking level control silviculture treatments on the Klamath 

Ranger District to protect the remaining large ponderosa pine trees which 

are used by the Bald Eagle. 

➤ Salvage as much of the white fir mortality as possible. 

● Transportation System 

➤ Continue to monitor the levels of open roads available for passenger car 

and high clearance vehicle access. 

➤ Continue to work towards resolution of concerns regarding road closures 

and road obliteration, with the Klamath Tribes. 

➤ Complete access and travel management analysis in the Lone Pine Fire 

area, Klamath Marsh area, and the Southeast portion of Chemult in FY 

97, with involvement of the Klamath Tribes, Oregon Department of Fish 

and Wildlife, and interested agencies and the public. 

➤ Select future priority areas for analysis of access and travel management. 

➤ Continue to work with the Klamath Country Trails Committee, and other 

interested groups, to develop more opportunities for All-terrain vehicles 

(ATV's) and 4-Wheel drive vehicles. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 11 

➤ Continue to work with individuals, regarding road access needs or 

concerns, in compliance with National Environmental Policy Act. 

Economy

➤ Continue existing monitoring efforts at the current intensity. 

➤ Work closely with local interests via the Community Action Teams, the 

County Overall Economic Development Program, and other programs to 

smooth the shift away from reliance on the lumber and wood products 

sectors. 

➤ Support appropriate initiatives that will provide developed campgrounds 

within the south and central portions of the County. 

➤ Examine opportunities to increase timber harvest in FY-98 and beyond. 

➤ Revise the Forest plan to reflect realistic social, economic, and 

management situations. 

Forest Plan

● Implementation of Standards and Guidelines 

➤ Use the latitude available in the Inland Native Fish Strategy (Forest Plan 

amendment 9) to manage riparian areas. This will allow careful 

management to insure that the desired condition of riparian areas is 

maintained over time. 

➤ Re-examine the direction in the Eastside Screens (Forest Plan amendments 7 

and 8) that requires retention of 100% snag habitat levels in areas of 

managed forest. Retention of snag habitats in excess of the 40% level, 

specified in the original Forest Plan, may create hazards to forest workers 

and could lead to the elimination of all management in those areas or the 

removal of designated leave trees during harvest operations (thus violating 

the screens). 

➤ Modify snag management guidelines (S&G's 4-18 through 4-20) to clarify 

how surrounding, non-harvest, areas contribute to snag habitat and to 

incorporate science-based guidance that defines which trees are likely to die 

after a fire. 

➤ Modify S&G 4-22, Dead and Down Woody Material, to include an 

appropriate maximum and minimum number of logs per acre (considering 

habitat needs as well as desired utilization levels, fire hazard and other 

factors) rather than just a minimum. 

➤ Instigate research efforts that will (1) evaluate the effects of soil compaction 

on long-term productivity, (2) improve understanding of the interaction of 

soil, seedlings, and environment as it affects reforestation and site 

productivity and (3) evaluate the cumulative effects on soil productivity by 

ground-based timber harvest equipment. 

➤ Implement S&G 3-7 ("Existing roads not needed for future transportation 

purposes shall be closed and returned to vegetative productivity."). 

➤ Provide additional guidance, perhaps by being more restrictive on the range 

of silvicultural prescriptions that are acceptable, to be sure that timber 

management goals of the Forest Plan, as modified, are achieved in an 

economical manner. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 12 

➤ Maintain Trails in Wilderness Areas to meet the objectives of S&G 10-12 or 

modify the S&G and recognize the resultant effects. 

➤ In Semi-Primitive Nonmotorized areas (MA-1) where off-road vehicles are 

to be excluded and in other locations, such as developed recreation sites, 

where vehicles are to be kept on roads, effective exclusion measures should 

be implemented or the S&G's should be modified appropriately and the 

resultant effects recognized. 

➤ Provide a reminder memo or training, as needed, to ensure that all 

construction and reconstruction projects are planned and implemented in 

accordance with the R-6 Recreation, Facilities, and Trails Development 

Process (S&G 10-4). 

➤ Reexamine the role of silviculture in management of Late Successional 

Reserves (LSR's) and provide additional guidance, if necessary, to make 

sure that any desirable timber harvests can be structured to be economically 

feasible. If active management is found to be undesirable, adjust desired 

future condition descriptions to reflect the lack of such management. If 

active management is found to be desirable and can be scheduled, consider 

returning LSR's to the suitable timber base. 

➤ Remove locally established limits on the diameter of trees allowed to be 

harvested in LSR's so that silvicultural prescriptions can be applied which 

implement the direction in the NW Forest Plan and ideas expressed in the 

LSR Assessment. 

● Accomplishment of Outputs and Services

➤ Revise the Forest Plan to reflect new information developed by the Eastside 

Ecosystem Management Project and the NW Forest plan and adjust the 

Timber Sale Program Quantity appropriately. 

➤ Revise the Forest Plan to adjust the ponderosa pine sold estimate as 

appropriate 

➤ Revise the Forest Plan to adjust the estimates of silvicultural treatments as 

appropriate. 

➤ Revise the Forest Plan to adjust the estimates of timber stand improvement 

activities as appropriate. 

➤ Increase fuel treatment activities to at least a level that will avoid an increase 

in treatment backlog. 

➤ Proceed to implement and enforce road management decisions made in the 

Forest plan Record of Decision, or modify the Forest plan as appropriate. 

➤ When the Forest Plan is next modified, include an estimate of range 

improvements (structures and acres) needed to meet the objectives 

established for the resource. 

➤ When the Forest Plan is next modified, include an estimate of wildlife 

habitat improvements (structures and acres) needed to meet the objectives 

established for the resource. Split this out between "threatened and 

endangered species" and "other species". 

➤ Modify the Forest Plan to include more realistic estimates of watershed 

improvement work. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 13 

● Budget

➤ Revise the Forest Monitoring Plan to incorporate budget considerations into 

the analysis performed by each resource specialist as is done for Range 

Vegetation. 

➤ Use the All Resources Reporting System as the basis for evaluating budget 

impacts upon outputs and the achievement of Standards and Guidelines, 

unless the system is altered so that it does not provide consistent information 

from year to year. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 14 

D. Summary of Findings and Trends

With five years of monitoring completed, long term trends are becoming more clearly defined. 

Key among the general findings is that timber harvest levels have been well below those expected 

with full implementation of the Forest Plan. This continues to have serious adverse effects upon 

the local economy and will adversely affect long-term habitat conditions for certain wildlife 

species unless the trend makes a rapid reversal. 

Key findings and trends in each of the four topic areas are as follows: 

Ecosystem Health

● Mule Deer

➤ To meet the mule deer objectives stated in the Forest Plan will require an 

increase in harvest and commercial thinning to provide forage for deer as 

projected in the FEIS and will also require effectively closed roads for 

mitigation of disturbance. 

➤ Harvest restrictions and an inability to resolve road closure issues leads one 

to the conclusion that mule deer habitat objectives will not be met in the 

foreseeable future. 

● Elk

➤ Elk populations will continue to grow. Populations may reach the stage 

where unacceptable agricultural damage occurs before any competitive 

interaction with mule deer occurs. However, it is still too early to determine 

interactions with deer. 

➤ The proportioned numbers of elk on the Forest to achieve state management 

objectives are so low that it might not be necessary to develop special 

analysis procedures or standards and guidelines for elk habitat management. 

➤ The recommended actions from the 1994 Monitoring Report were not 

completed. 

➤ Districts are considering elk in project analysis and mitigating as appropriate 

for calving and providing migration corridors. 

 

● Fish Habitat 

➤ There are no detectable changes in fish numbers, species composition, or age 

structure. 

➤ In general, populations appear healthy and vigorous in most systems. 

➤ The Sprague River experiences degraded water quality during summer and 

early fall. Conditions become lethal or nearly so, for salmonid species 

during this time. Salmonid populations are in decline on this system and 

rough fish populations have increased. 

➤ 3 Mile Creek, on Klamath District experienced a significant debris torrent 

this winter. The morphological structure of the system changed drastically. 

This creek contains the most critical population of bull trout in the Klamath 

Provence. Initial evaluations indicate that some of that population may have 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 15 

been lost or displaced. This system is constrained by a Forest Service road. 

The road certainly contributed to the intensity of this debris torrent. 

➤ Species composition in the Cherry Creek system is moving to favor 

introduced brook trout at the expense of native bull trout. Age structure is 

also poor for bull trout in both Three Mile Creek and Cherry Creek. 

Fecundity of brook trout is saturating the gene pool and recruitment to the 

bull trout population is in serious decline! 

➤ Aquatic invertebrate samples have been collected at numerous locations on 

the Forest. Analysis of all the samples has not occurred due to lack of 

funding. A systematic sampling scheme has been developed and baseline 

stations will be established throughout the Forest this summer. 

➤ There is growing concern regarding endemic mollusc populations. Initial 

surveys were conducted last summer and numerous (30-40) new, previously 

un-described species were discovered on the small portion of the Forest that 

was inventoried. 

● Bald Eagle 

➤ Efforts are being made to keep management of known and potential nest sites in 

compliance with the recovery plan objectives. 

➤ Additional nest site plans and monitoring are needed to ensure full recovery of 

the eagle. 

➤ The intent of Forest Plan management requirements in eagle habitat is to provide 

habitat conditions suitable for bald eagle colonization. The monitoring plan 

developed in FY93 in affiliation with Oregon Eagle Foundation will help the 

Winema National Forest personnel determine if this is the case. 

➤ To determine the effectiveness of bald eagle replacement habitat management on 

the Forest improved/additional monitoring needs to take place. 

● Peregrine Falcon 

➤ Some surveys have been completed in association with projects developed on the 

three Ranger Districts. Potential habitat exists on the Chiloquin and Klamath 

Ranger Districts. 

➤ Sufficient numbers of survey results have not been reported to conduct a 

meaningful evaluation at this time. 

● Lost River and Shortnosed Suckers

➤ Historic use areas in the Klamath Basin, including the Winema National Forest, 

have been delineated on maps for future study. 

➤ A cooperative study, in conjunction with BOR, Klamath Tribe, and Fremont 

NF, is underway to assess genetic differentiation between members of the Lost 

River and shortnosed suckers. 

 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 16 

● Primary Cavity Excavators 

➤ Interim Eastside Screens were implemented in the Region for areas outside of 

the range of the northern spotted owl. EAs contain these screens as standards 

and guidelines. The screens are new enough that there has been no opportunity 

for post-sale compliance monitoring. 

➤ Snags have been created to increase snags to levels required by Forest Plan 

Standards and Guidelines. 

● Pileated Woodpecker and other MR Species 

➤ Suitability surveys are occurring on part of the Forest. Habitat suitability 

indices are not being used to rate suitability. 

➤ Insufficient monitoring does not allow for a forest-wide evaluation. 

● Sensitive Species (other than previously listed) 

➤ Individual site locations of sensitive plant and animal species are protected 

and/or mitigation measures are taken to prevent adverse impacts due to 

management activities on all Forest project activities. 

➤ Long-term trend studies are needed to determine if plant and animal species 

density and distribution are being maintained or increased on the Forest. 

➤ On Chiloquin Ranger District, populations of sensitive plants (status and 

distribution) appear to be stable. On Chemult Ranger District, data is 

insufficient to determine population trends for sensitive plants. In all cases, 

additional information is needed and must be assessed over a five to ten year 

time-frame to determine long-term sensitive species population distribution and 

status trends. 

➤ Monitoring studies on Collomia mazama and Asarum wagneri, on Klamath 

Ranger District, will provide some data regarding trend for these species. An 

attempt to determine sensitive species trends at this point would be based solely 

on observation and would be completely subjective. 

 

● Plant and Animal Diversity 

➤ As the trend for reduced harvest and decreased commercial thinning 

continues, the acres of early successional stages in forested types will 

decrease. As uneven-aged management is implemented habitat edge will 

decrease. As edge and early successional stages in the forested habitat types 

decreases so will the populations of species that are dependent upon early 

successional stages and upon edge. However, represented mid- and late 

successional stage forests should increase as will species associated with 

those stages. 

➤ Plant associations and plant and animal associated species are recorded on 

Forest TES survey forms and entered into a BOTSIS database and GIS. The 

WILDOBS database is being utilized to document animal occurrence and 

habitat data. These data will assist in the evaluation of long-term trends in 

plant and animal distribution and diversity 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 17 

● Old Growth 

➤ In 1990 the Forest completed a survey of old growth to be selected for 

additional needs as determined by the ROD. This was not an inventory as 

such and stands surveyed for potential selection did not necessarily meet the 

Forest Plan definition (mature one or two-storied stands), the R6 definition 

(10 large trees per acre, etc.), or Hopkin's draft definitions. Lodgepole was 

not surveyed and has, to date, not been inventoried. Acreages of 24,400 

acres of ponderosa pine and pine associated working groups that 

approximate Hopkin's draft definitions were reserved through Amendment 3 

to the Forest Plan for purposes other than for MR species. 

➤ All old growth MR sites on Klamath Ranger District were dropped when the 

President's Forest Plan was adopted. They were replaced by 60,860 acres of 

LSR. 

➤ Most watersheds on the Klamath Ranger District exceed 15% old growth, 

however Spencer Creek is close to the minimum. 

➤ Winds on the Chemult District blew down several stands reserved for old 

growth. This is addressed more thoroughly in wildlife monitoring. 

 

● Off-Road Vehicle Use

➤ ORV use was noted within the Yamsey Mountain Semi-primitive Recreation 

area during August. Motorized vehicle use is excluded from this area in the 

Forest Plan, but closure signs have not been installed. 

➤ The only resource damage caused by ORV use was reported at Jackson 

Creek (see page 32). 

➤ Some use conflicts have been noted between nonmotorized and motorized 

winter trail users. These are minimized by designating trails or areas for 

nonmotorized use only or by clearly indicating where shared used can be 

expected. No other conflicts have been reported. 

 

● Soil 

➤ Of the 83 units monitored on the Chemult District, only 1 met the Regional 

standard of detrimental compaction over less than 20 percent of the area. 

On an acreage basis, roughly 4000 acresexceeded a 20 percent increase in 

bulk density. 61 percent of the area monitored does not meet the Regional 

standard. 

➤ Some of the units on the Chiloquin District that show the 

greatest degree of detrimental compaction consist of soil 

groups listed by the SRI to be less susceptible (specifically 

the A and B group soils). 

➤ Of the ten units sampled in the Hog and Yoss watersheds, four exceeded the 

Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines for detrimental compaction, four units 

are approaching the standard and two are well below the standard. Thus, 40 

percent exceed the standard and 60 percent meet the standard 

➤ Monitoring of the fire rehabilitation structures on the Quick Fire was 

inconclusive. Even though we had a moderate snowpack that came early 

and stayed late, melting across the Forest was gradual and produced only a 

small amount of runoff. Runoff in the winter of 95/96 has been more 

significant and the in-channel structures have functioned well to detain 

sediment. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 18 

➤ Soil conditions in Rider's Camp meadow were monitored in 1994 and were 

estimated to be poor. Compaction and some pedestaling was evident 

throughout the meadow. We did not quantify the amount of compaction but 

observation indicated more than 20 percent of the soil was in a detrimental 

condition due to compaction. Severe erosion of the channel banks is 

continuing. 

➤ On the Gopher Timber Sale, harvest occured on soil group "D"; loamy 

coarse sands formed in volcanic ash. Where snow depth was at least 24" 

over frozen ground, compaction remained below the threshold of concern. 

However, standards were exceeded when operations continued during 

snowmelt. 

➤ Harvest over-the-snow in the Odessa Campground sale resulted in limited 

increase in soil compaction, and minimal litter and topsoil displacement. 

➤ In the Nannie Timber Sale, harvest activities detrimentally compacted an 

additional 4% of the selected monitored unit. Monitoring showed the 

cumulative detrimental compaction to total 23% of the area, just over 

regional standards. 

➤ The Slick and Shave sales were monitored for compaction and displacement 

on 30-40% slopes. Harvest by shears caused displacement and detrimental 

compaction that exceeded the forest plan standards. In addition, much of 

the displaced soil became saturated and flowed downhill. It appears that the 

35% slope standard for ground based equipment is an inadequate restriction 

for some soils. 

➤ Site preparation activities continue to emphasize subsoiling. While the 

treatment is not extensive enough to reduce soil compaction below 

thresholds that exist in the Forest Plan, some alleviation is accomplished 

that beneficially effects seedling growth and survival. 

➤ While monitoring records are still inadequate to assess overall soil 

conditions, trends on the Forest indicate ground based logging equipment is 

compacting pumice soil above Forest Plan Standards and Guides and above 

the Regional standard. 

 

● Riparian Area Cumulative Effects 

➤ Riparian conditions in Copperfield Draw continue to improve through putting 

the range permit in non-use. However, a headcut at the lower end of 

Copperfield Draw and another near the upper end threaten the recovery of 

the riparian area and the meadow. 

➤ Riders Camp continues to decline in condition. An electric fence was 

installed at the beginning of the grazing season, but the fence failed and 

approximately one to two dozen cows used the area over the season. The 

permittee did not ride often enough to prevent overgrazing when 

approaching utilization, nor was the grazing administration adequate to 

protect the riparian resource from damage. 

 

● Water

➤ In some cases BMP's are incorporated in the EA document and in other 

cases they remain in the analysis files. 

➤ Field implementation monitoring of BMPs was absent again this year. 

➤ A monitoring report for water quality, trophic index, and other factors was 

completed for Miller Lake on Chemult District and Bert, Center, 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 19 

Marguarette, Trapper and Wind Lakes in the Sky Lakes Wilderness. These 

studies indicate that for a snapshot in time, the water quality in these lakes is 

acceptable. 

➤ The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) published the 

Draft 303(D) list for comment. In the Draft listing, seven waters on the 

Winema were out of compliance with temperature standards. Four water 

bodies were listed as water quality limited for other reasons. 

➤ The trend over the last few years has been toward more awareness of BMP's 

and their importance so that now they are recognized in environmenntal 

analyses. 

Forest Resources

● Developed Recreation Sites 

➤ It is expected that overall use on the Forest has continued to track with 

SCORP/Forest Plan projections with some minor fluctuations due to weather 

and site closures for facility repairs. 

➤ As indicated in the 1994 report, the Forest will not be able to met the demand for 

developed site camping in the Lake of the Woods complex. 

➤ Accessibility surveys and a Transition Plan has been developed for all developed 

recreation sites. 

➤ Expanding and upgrading facilities at Williamson River Campground remains a 

priority project to meet accessibility standards, upgrade the water system, and 

provide additional capacity for campers in the US 97 corridor. There is an 

opportunity to partnership with Oregon State Parks in providing trails, 

trailheads, and additional camping capacity in the Spring Creek-Williamson 

River area. 

➤ Planning of additional trails outside of wilderness as requested by users is 

continuing. 

➤ Shelters were planned for construction at Great Meadow and Walt Haring Snoparks during 1995. Unfortunately, bids received exceeded available funds. A 

multi-season shelter is planned again at Walt Haring Sno-park in 1996 using 

carry-over funds. The Great Meadow shelter will be added to the Forest CIP 

project schedule. 

➤ Construction of accessible fishing platforms and boardwalk at Wood River Dayuse Area will continue through a partnership with Integral Youth Services in 

1996. 

 

● Scenery 

➤ No follow-up photography has been completed this year at camera point 

monument locations established to monitor scenery. Photographs taken on field 

trips are available for future evaluation processes and comparisons. 

➤ The Dead Indian Road, State Highway 62, Silver Lake Road and Miller Lake 

Road were to have had a viewshed implementation guide completed by 1995. 

These guides have not been completed due to limited budgets. 

➤ Sunset Campground, Lake of the Woods VIS and Work Center, Fourmile Lake 

Campground, Miller Lake Recreation Area (which includes Digit Point 

Campground) and Corral Springs Campground were to have had Vegetative 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 20 

Management Guides completed by 1995. Because a lodgepole salvage sale 

(Buck Timber Sale) was implemented in the Corral Springs area, a 

rehabilitation plan was developed in 1994 which includes planting of potted 

trees in the campground in lieu of a vegetative management guide. The other 

guides have been delayed due to limited budgets. 

➤ Overall scenic viewshed condition ratings were not completed this year using 

updated existing visual condition datum available in the geographical 

information system. The reason is that there was not sufficient management 

activity resulting in created openings within viewsheds to make a significant 

difference from the trend results calculated for 1994. 

 

● Range Vegetation 

➤ Of the 263,953 acres in allotments, 24,152 acres were monitored. Of those 

monitored, 24,052 acres were at or moving toward Forest Plan Objectives 

(FPO), and 100 acres were not meeting FPO. 

➤ Of the riparian areas within allotments (41,542 acres), 8, 497 were 

monitored and of those acres monitored, 100 acres are not meeting or 

moving toward FPO. 

➤ Riparian areas identified as not moving towards FPO in Antelope Allotment 

in 1994 were fenced but fencing was not effective. The fence was upgraded 

in the fall of 1995 (FY96). 

➤ Forage production was excellent across most of the Forest because it was a 

wet year. Livestock turnout was delayed on many allotments because of wet 

conditions. 

➤ With the fifth year of the Forest Plan completed, no AMPs have been 

completed. Range analysis data has been completed for five allotments. No 

AMP development is in progress. 

● Timberland Suitability

➤ There was no change in timber land suitability acreages during FY 1995. 

 

● Timber Inventory

➤ The mixed conifer inventory has been completed but analysis of the data 

was not accomplished for the preparation of this report. The new inventory 

information will come available in time for the Forest Plan revision. 

➤ Mortality in lodgepole pine has greatly declined. In 1984 nearly 50 million 

board feet were dying. Now, the lodgepole pine mortality is less than one 

million board feet per year. This indicates that the lodgepole pine mortality 

is not sufficient to maintain the planned salvage program in lodgepole pine 

of 40.2 million board feet per year. 

 

● Regeneration Success 

➤ First year survival is improved this year. 

➤ Third year survival is down a little, reflecting some of the harsh sites 

encountered in the Lone Pine Fire area. 

➤ A drop in fifth year survival is the result of about 1200 acres of 1990 plantations 

being burned in the Lone Pine Fire. These areas are being reforested and will 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 21 

be tracked by the year of replanting in the future. Other than these acres, fifth 

year survival is about 98%. 

● Timber Harvest Unit Size 

➤ No regeneration units exceed harvest unit size limitations. 

● Insects and Disease

➤ The mountain pine beetle and western pine beetle activity is at near normal 

levels across the forest. The western pine beetle together with mountain pine 

beetle continues to cause mortality in large ponderosa pine trees used by Bald 

Eagles for nesting and roosting near Upper Klamath Lake. 

➤ Fir engraver beetle mortality is very high on South Chiloquin and remains high 

on Klamath District. The fir engraver is very closely associated with root rot 

diseases. This normal relationship has been compounded by the drought which 

has also caused the fir trees to be under much more stress than normal. We can 

not assume a major increase in root disease at this time just because the fir 

engraver has shown an increase in activity. 

➤ Ground exams indicate that some areas are having the white fir nearly 

eliminated from the stand. The implications for fire hazard and wildlife habitat 

are considerable. 

 

● Transportation System 

➤ In 1995, Passenger car and High Clearance access available was within the 10% 

threshold. (Refer to Monitoring Item-Road Access Type under the Monitoring 

Item: Accomplishment of Outputs and Services) 

➤ In 1995, Intermittent road access available was outside the threshold. (Refer to 

Monitoring Item - Road Access Type under the Monitoring Item: 

Accomplishment of Outputs and Services). 

➤ The Klamath Tribes have expressed concerns regarding road closures and road 

obliteration. These concerns are related to road closures infringing upon treaty 

rights for access, a concern that there is not adequate east-west open road 

access, and a concern that the Forest has not adequately involved the Klamath 

Tribes in road closure decisions. 

➤ The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has expressed the need to reduce 

the amount of open roads, in both specific areas and generally across the forest. 

➤ The Forest is currently working with the Klamath Tribes, Oregon Department of 

Fish and Wildlife, and interested publics regarding analysis of access and travel 

management in the Lone Pine fire area and for areas adjacent to the Klamath 

Marsh. 

➤ The Klamath Country Trails Committee has expressed the need for more use 

opportunities for All-terrain vehicles (ATV's) and 4-Wheel drive vehicles on the 

forest. 

➤ Other public comments have been received regarding roads and road access, but 

they have been specific to an individual road need, and the concern or access 

need was resolved with the individual. 

➤ No formal program reviews were conducted during FY 95. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 22 

Economy

➤ Intense conflict related to changing Forest Service management was averted by 

activity in other sectors of the local economy and changing demographics. 

There remains a "local control" undercurrent that could erupt with any 

additional Forest Service actions which adversely affect the local economy, but 

the likelihood of such an eruption seems to be diminishing as other sectors of 

the economy grow and as immigrants bring in new ideas. 

➤ A 14.9% increase in total jobs is on the borderline of a level that could cause 

strain on local infrastructure. 

➤ The Klamath County economy has done very well, to date, in adjusting to 

changes in the wood products industry. The total income, population and total 

jobs indicators all show positive changes that are not large enough to cause 

disruptions in the local economy. 

➤ The declining rate of growth in transfer payments may indicate a slowing in the 

influx of retirees to the area. 

➤ The loss of much of the lumber production capacity in Klamath County means 

that increased sawlog sales on the Winema National Forest will primarily 

benefit residents in Jackson, Douglas and Deschutes Counties rather than 

residents of Klamath County. 

➤ Prospects for increased tourism coupled with demand for developed recreation 

come as developed campgrounds on the Forest are nearing capacity. This could 

become an arena of conflict unless the Forest Service can develop additional 

facilities or work with other parties to provide them. 

➤ The owl guarantee is critical for the county. Unless significant changes in Forest 

management are made, payments to the County are likely to be well under 

$2,000,000 per year when the owl guarantee expires. 

Forest Plan

● Implementation of Standards and Guidelines 

➤ In general, standards and guidelines are being properly implemented across 

the Forest. 

➤ Additional research-based information is needed about the relationship 

between soil compaction and vegetative response. 

➤ In some cases timber sales are designed and implemented to leave far in 

excess of the snag habitat levels called for under the eastside screens. 

➤ In specific locations, retention of down woody material to meet standards 

and guidelines may create excessive fire hazard. 

➤ Some timber harvest contracts include language that could void utilization 

standards in an effort to achieve S&G's for down woody material. 

➤ In some cases boundary tags on old timber sales are not being removed. 

➤ Significant tree mortality is occurring over a wide area of the Chiloquin 

District. 

➤ Insufficient timber volumes were marked for removal on the Giddyup 

timber Sale to effectively culture ponderosa pine, because of limitations on 

the size of trees that were removed. 

➤ Vehicles are being used off of roads in some inappropriate places. 

➤ Some trails in the Sky Lakes Wilderness need maintenance work. 

➤ One construction project was not planned and implemented in accordance 

with the Region 6 Recreation, Facilities, and Trails Development Process. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 23 

➤ Without regeneration harvest (group selection), sizeable areas of Late 

Successional Reserves will not be able to provide their desired function into 

the future. 

● Accomplishment of Outputs and Services

➤ The decade total allowable sale quantity is well below planned levels. 

➤ The Timber Sale Program Quantity is 55% below planned levels. 

➤ The rate of dead lodgepole pine harvest is 34% below planned levels. 

➤ The volume of ponderosa pine sold is 46% below planned levels. 

➤ Silvicultural treatments, with the exception of regeneration harvest, are 

from 58% to 82% below planned levels. 

➤ Reforestation is 33% ahead of planned levels. 

➤ Timber stand improvement work is at 49% of planned levels. 

➤ Fuel treatment activities are 25% below planned levels and backlogs are 

increasing. 

➤ Trail construction/reconstruction is at 22% of planned levels. Construction 

of the inter-tie trail late in the decade should bring this element to planned 

levels. 

➤ At 87% of planned levels, permitted livestock grazing has not reached a 

level of concern. 

● Budget

➤ Political decisions have affected budget priorities and expenditures. Ecosystem 

management, watershed analysis, water rights and timber are changes in 

programs occurring after the Forest Plan was signed. These shifts in funding 

categories make it difficult to directly track year-to-year changes in comparison 

to Forest Plan estimates. 

➤ Total budget dollars are below Forest Plan levels. Output levels are also 

generally below Forest Plan levels, but for reasons other than insufficient 

budgets (see Monitoring Item: Accomplishment of Outputs and Services). 

➤ In range management and scenery, funding levels limited accomplishments. 

➤ Monitoring indicates that budget levels are sufficient to meet the standards and 

guidelines in the Forest Plan at the current output levels (see Monitoring Item: 

Standards and Guidelines) which are well below the outputs levels for key 

resources projected in the Forest Plan. 

 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 24 

E. Monitoring Item Results

This section of the report summarizes the results and evaluations of each monitoring item in the 

order presented in the Monitoring Plan section of the Forest Plan (page 5-7). 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 25 

 

Monitoring Item: Implementation of Standards and Guidelines

 This Monitoring Item addresses Standards and Guidelines (S&G's) as well as changes in Management Area 

acreages. The first part of this section discusses the review of numerous S&G's . Following that discussion 

is a summary of Management Area acreage changes and and evaluation of them. 

STANDARDS and GUIDELINES

Type 2 field reviews (Forest Plan, page 5-14) are performed and documented by teams which include 

members of the Forest Management Team. Type 1 reviews are performed and documented by teams made 

up of at least one Supervisor's Office Specialist and a District counterpart. These reviews and other 

pertinent information are used to monitor the implementation of Standards and Guidelines. 

In 1995, several field reviews and supplementary information were used to monitor standards and 

guidelines. 

Type 1 Reviews

1-1. January 25, 1995: Sheehan and Anderson: Swamp, Russky and Hazard Tree Salvage 

1-2. February 8, 1995: Lilienthal et al: Crater and Quick Timber Sales 

1-3. February 8, 1995: Sheehan and Anderson: Odessa Timber Sale, Hazard Tree Salvage 

1-4. February 9, 1995: Christopher and Anderson: Hazard Tree Salvage 

1-5. May 25, 1995: Sheehan and Jahns: Odessa, Fox, Crystal Springs, Grumpy etc. 

1-6. June 2, 1995: Sheehan et al: Forest Health 

1-7. June 20, 1995: Sheehan and Anderson: Giddyup, Nannie, Helirock Timber Sales 

1-8. July 3, 1995: Sheehan and Bennett: Dorf Timber Sale 

1-9. September 6, 1995: Sheehan et al: First Salvage Sale 

1-10. September 18, 1995: Sheehan and Rietman: Canby Salvage Sale 

1-11. August 29, 1995: Frost et al: Corral Springs Campground and Haring Snopark Shelter 

1-12. September 14, 1995: Rietman and Parker: Jackson Creek Campground Silviculture 

1-13. September 22, 1995: Rietman and Jahns: Cold Springs Timber Sale 

Type 2 Reviews

This year two projects on each Ranger District were randomly selected from a pool of all projects on the 

Forest. These projects were supplemented with an additional project and reviewed for compliance with 

Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines. The following projects were reviewed: 

2-1. July 19, 1995: Chemult Ranger District 

 A. Reforestation linked with soil monitoring 

 B. Sou'wester Salvage and Recovery 

2-2. August 10, 1995: Chiloquin Ranger District 

 A. Buckhorn Fire Salvage 

 B. Quick Fire Salvage 

 C. Wocus Underburn (added) 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 26 

2-3. September 19, 1995: Klamath Ranger District 

 A. Camp McLoughlin Improvements 

 B. Pothole Blasting and Eagle Perch Installation 

Other Information

3-1. February 3, 1995: Krommes: Lake of the Woods Hazard Tree Removal 

3-2. February 23, 1995: Christopher: Odessa Timber Sale 

3-3. March 16, 195: Christopher: Hazard Tree Salvage Sale 

3-4 August 17, 1995: Fred Weaver: Yamsey Mtn. Trail ORV Use 

3-5. September 2, 1995: Doug Bright: Skylakes Trail Maintenance 

3-6. September 5, 1995: Castaneda et al: Range Management (Chiloquin District) 

3-7. May 2, 1995: Frazier and Johnson: Timber Mortality 

3-8. May 3, 1995: Frazier and Johnson: Butler Meadow Area 

3-9. May 3, 1995: Frazier and Johnson: Ridge Spring and Powerline Pond 

3-10. May 10, 1995: Frazier: Lone Pine Area 

3-11: May 5, 1995: Wine: Chiloquin Ranger Station Site 

Discussion

Each different Standard and Guideline that was discussed in one of the documents noted above, is 

summarized below. This highlights the situation with regard to each S&G that was addressed during FY1995. Codes, as noted above, for each background document are listed as references where the information 

is used to assess a particular S&G. 

Soil and Water

S&G: 12-5 (Forest Plan, page 4-73) 

3-10 (Forest Plan, page 4-44) 

References: 1-1, 2-1, 2-2, 3-1 

The Forest Management Team examined the soil conditions at several sites on the Chemult District. 

It was found that in pumice soils, it is difficult to discern displacement due to the similarity in color 

of in-place and disturbed soil and the propensity of pumice to float back into place. Puddling did 

not seem to be a problem, but probing and bulk density testing did reveal detrimental compaction as 

defined by the S&G. Such conditions were identified in thickets that apparently had no human 

activities in them as well as in areas where logging activities were known to have occurred. The 

discussions revealed that considerably more information about the mechanics and effects of soil 

compaction is needed. While it seems obvious that compaction in pumice soils is caused by logging 

equipment and other vehicles, natural processes which cause compaction are unknown, but could 

involve snow load, wildlife, and falling trees. One site that was logged in 1980, site prepped in 1983 

and machine planted in 1984 was seen to have a healthy stand of 15 foot tall trees on it. Available 

research suggests that the growth of this stand will slow in a few years as a result of compaction. 

Further research is needed to describe just what is a "natural" condition of this type soil in terms of 

compaction and to discern the effects of compaction on other resources such as vegetation. 

The need for additional information in this area was discussed in the Forest Plan (pages 2-10 and 2-

11): 

❍ Evaluate the effects of soil compaction on long-term productivity 

❍ Improve understanding of interaction of soil, seedlings, and environment as it affects 

reforestation and site productivity. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 27 

❍ Evaluate the cumulative effects on soil productivity by ground-based timber harvest 

equipment. 

The need for this information remains. 

The review of underburning in the Wocus Butte area on the Chiloquin District revealed negligible 

effects upon soils. 

The Quick Fire Salvage Sale was designed (and later implemented) with helicopter logging and 

designated skid trails to prevent detrimental effects on the soils. This is in accordance with the 

Forest Plan. As of February 3, 1993, the hazard tree removal efforts in the Lake of the Woods area 

was being done over three feet of snow and there was no evidence of soil damage or soil contact. 

This is in accordance with S&G 12-5. 

A Type 1 review on January 24 revealed that there was a potential for violating S&G 3-10 (Forest 

Plan, page 4-44) on the Swamp Timber Sale (haul under unfavorable weather conditions). The 

District Ranger was cautioned not to compromise the resource to accommodate purchaser efficiency. 

A review on September 14 (see Recreation, below) revealed serious compaction problems at the 

Jackson Creek Campground. 

More details on the FY-1995 soil monitoring effort is included in the Monitoring Item: "Soil", near 

the end of this report. 

Riparian Area Management

S&G: Management Area 8 - Riparian Areas (Forest Plan, page 4-136), Inland Native Fish 

Strategy TM-1 

References: 1-7, 2-1, 2-2 

The Forest Management Team examined an area along Seller's Creek to identify issues related to 

riparian area management under the temporary screens (Forest Plan Amendments 7, 8 and 9). This 

area is in the midst of a larger area that had been logged in response to an insect infestation that had 

killed up to 90 percent of the trees. It was recently relogged to remove blowdown. In the face of all 

this activity, the riparian area remained in a desirable condition. Various requirements for cultural 

resources, wildlife and riparian values seemed to effectively maintain this area. The area around the 

crossing of road 9409 was found to be generally in accordance with the desired future condition 

expressed in the Forest Plan (Page 4-136). Continued management under the screens, will 

eventually cause the riparian area to move away from that condition. As snags blow down, they will 

fall in the streambed and may eventually interfere with the flow of water while increasing fire hazard 

and suppressing regeneration. The type of management envisioned in the original Forest Plan would 

allow activities to maintain the desired future condition whereas the guidance in the screens does 

not. Due to the temporary nature of the screens, this should not be a problem. In addition, Timber 

Management S&G TM-1 (Inland Native Fish Strategy, page A-7) provides latitude in exception "b" 

to resolve this issue. 

The segment of the riparian area discussed above, was easily definable. Another segment was much 

more difficult to define due to flatter ground where water flows can spread out . There was no 

identifiable channel, no riparian vegetation, and no water, at the time of the review. This situation 

points out the difficulty in defining riparian areas and Management Area 8 in some places. 

On a June 20 field trip it was found that the riparian areas were well marked in the proposed 

Giddyup, Nannie, and Helirock Timber Sale units. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 28 

Snag Management

S&G: 4-18, 4-19, 4-20, 4-21 (Forest Plan, page 4-50) 

References: 1-2, 2-1, 2-2, 3-10 

Standing snags in the area of the Sou'wester Salvage Sale remained at the 100% snag habitat level 

(S&G 4-18 as modified by the screens), but sizes were limited and, due to the lack of large green 

trees, opportunities for snag recruitment are limited. Current management will focus on retaining the 

existing snags as long as possible and getting regeneration started. There will be at least a 25 year 

period during which this area will be devoid of snags. Continued management under the direction in 

the Forest Plan should get the area into compliance with snag guidelines in the long run. Due to 

insect damage and subsequent blowdown nothing can be done to prevent a shortage of snags for the 

next couple of decades. 

The Buckhorn fire took place in 1992 and was salvaged in 1993. The salvage prescription left all 

trees with any green needles on them. In addition snag habitat levels were calculated without regard 

to snags in non-harvest areas. At the time of the review essentially all of the trees that were left were 

dead. Thus there were snags well in excess of S&G 4-19 as modified by the Eastside Screens. This 

created a very difficult management situation with a high fire risk to the regenerated stand. A 

similar situation was designed into the Quick Fire Salvage Sale where snags were estimated to be 

over the 200% habitat level. After the review, the Forest Supervisor advised the Management Team 

to calculate snag levels using areas outside of cutting units as well as within units as prescribed in 

the Forest Plan. In addition the Management Team was advised to use a scientifically supported 

approach to estimating which trees will die after a fire (i.e. those with less than 20 to 30% green 

crown). 

Eighty-eight, large diameter, snags were retained in the foreground area of Highway 140 in the 

Crater Fire Salvage Sale (harvested 1991). This year it was noted that only one of these large snags 

had fallen. Most of the small diameter snags had fallen. An examination of an area west of Lone 

Pine Road, on the edge of the Lone Pine Fire, along a scab area (Section 3) revealed that all the 

conifer snags, including some about 10 inches in diameter were on the ground with rotted roots. 

Dead and Down Woody Material Management ■ Organic Residues

S&G: 4-22, 4-23 (Forest Plan, page 4-51 and 4-52) and 12-8 (Forest Plan, page 4-74) 

References: 1-9, 2-1, 2-2 

An area of the Sou'wester Salvage Sale was examined for retention of down woody materials. 

Contract specifications were found to be in agreement with the Forest Plan S&G's as modified by the 

screens (S&G 4-22 #4). Contract administration will be used to assure proper distribution of this 

material. Several small fires have occurred in this area since the blowdown and the fire risk will 

remain high until the blowdown is removed. The situation in this area was created by a fire about 

120 years ago that burned thousands of acres and left an even-aged lodgepole pine forest. 

Management in accordance with the Forest plan should result in conditions that are more stable for 

the long term. 

There should be plenty of remaining material to create slash piles in accordance with S&G 4-23. In 

addition the District plans to implement some of the initial findings of the Marten Study by leaving 

one large slash pile per ten acres. 

The Quick Fire Salvage sale was designed to leave 10 tons per acre of small woody material on the 

ground in accordance with S&G 12-8. This required retention of all 9" dbh and smaller trees plus 

tops and limbs. In this location, this level of organic material could create excessive fire hazard. 

The S&G provides latitude for professional judgement in attempts to reach this level of organic 

material. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 29 

On the First Salvage Sale, it was noted that the contract language (Special Provision C6.404) calls 

for "15 or more" pieces to be left to meet Forest Plan guidance for down woody material. While 

this wording would cause S&G 4-22 to be met, it raises the concern that utilization standards (S&G 

13-26) could be voided. An upper limit on the range of down woody material would resolve the 

concern. 

Fire Management

S&G: 8-6 (Forest Plan, page 4-59) 

References: 2-2 

The Management Team examined an area on Wocus Butte that had been underburned. The primary 

purpose of the burn was to reduce fire hazard with secondary benefits to wildlife and stand health. 

This was found to be in accordance with the Forest Plan direction. 

Deer and Elk Habitat

 S&G: 4-11 (Forest Plan, page 4-49 ) 

References: 2-2 

Among the purposes of burning three units on Wocus Butte (see Fire Management, above) was 

the improvement of forage for wildlife. Toward this goal, the District was able to retain live 

bitterbrush plants with a spacing of about 200 feet and expose some mineral soil for regeneration 

of bitterbrush without removing all organic material. This effort had secondary benefits to stand 

health when an occasional tree torched during the burn. It was found that trees with mistletoe 

tended to provide ladder fuels for the fire and burned more often. The resultant light thinning 

effect should reduce stress on the stand and improve its chances of surviving an attack of pine 

beetles which seems to be getting started in this area. 

Native American Rights and Claims

S&G: 7-1, 7-2, 7-3 (Forest Plan, page 4-58) 

References: 2-2 

The Klamath Tribe was invited to field review the Wocus Burn project on the Chiloquin District 

on several occasions. The Tribal biologist did review the project before and after the burn and 

indicated that the results were good. 

The burning near the top of Wocus Butte was carefully planned and executed to prevent damage to 

the cultural sites in the area and to protect the view from those sites. 

Cliffs, Caves, and Talus Habitat ■ Cultural Resources

S&G: 4-24 (Forest Plan, page 4-52) and S&G 2-5 (Forest Plan, page 4-42) 

References: 2-2 

The rock outcrop on the Buckhorn Fire Salvage sale was buffered out to 300 feet. This is in excess 

of the 200 foot buffer prescribed in the Forest Plan for protection of this type of habitat for 

wildlife. Cultural Resources S&G 2-5 requires avoidance or mitigation of adverse effects upon 

cultural sites. There are cultural sites atop the outcrop which are protected by the additional buffer 

width, so this arrangement does meet the requirements of the standards and guidelines. After the 

review, the Management Team was advised, by the Forest Supervisor, that care must be taken to 

consider long term conditions and effects upon these sites when prescribing mitigation measures. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 30 

Cultural Resources

S&G: 2-1 and 2-5 (Forest Plan, page 4-42) 

References: 2-2, 2-3 

Timber harvest was not allowed within a tree length of cultural sites in the Quick Fire Salvage Sale 

area. This is in accordance with the Forest Plan. One site on the sale was buffered to 100 feet to 

better accommodate current use. 

The old buildings at Camp McLoughlin will not be altered until they are reviewed by an 

archaeologist. 

Scenic Resources

S&G: 11-3, 11-6 (Forest Plan, page 4-72), MA-3B, Scenic 1 (Forest Plan, page 4-107) 

References: 1-2, 1-3, 2-2 

Individual snags were to be left along the highway corridor on the Quick Fire Salvage Sale. It 

may be necessary to remove some of these snags for safety purposes during logging. If this 

happens, it may be difficult to achieve the desired visual quality objective. A Type 1 review will 

be conducted in FY-96 to document the results. 

The Quick Fire Salvage Sale was developed quickly and without a Landscape Architect's 

assistance, as required by S&G 11-3. This was corrected late in the process and some 

modifications were made to accommodate scenic resources in accordance with the Management 

Area S&G's. The Landscape Architect helped mark the snags to be retained in the scenic 

corridor of the Williamson River Road. Forty-one trees were marked for retention. Snags were 

grouped with consideration for helicopter logging and to maximize visual effects and spatial 

distribution. In accordance with S&G 11-6, the leave trees were marked on the back with only a 

vertical mark on the front base of each tree. 

Units 44 and 46 of the Slick Timber Sale (Klamath Ranger District) were found to have boundary 

tags from the Mom Timber Sale and the Lick Timber Sale, respectively, which are both closed. 

These should have been removed after completion of the sales in accordance with S&G 11-6. 

Special Uses

S&G: 5-6, 5-10 (Forest Plan, page 4-55) 

References: 2-3 

Camp McLoughlin, on Lake of the Woods, is operated under a special use permit by the Boy 

Scouts of America. The Management Team review revealed that the operation was consistent 

with the developed recreation emphasis for that area (S&G 5-10). When the Boy Scouts 

proposed a series of improvements for the area, the Klamath Ranger District prepared an 

Environmental Assessment in accordance with the Forest plan (S&G 5-6). The NW Forest Plan 

(Amendment 5, to the Winema Forest Plan) permits retention of the camp in accordance with 

S&G's for Multiple-Use Activities Other Than Silviculture at page C17 of the Record of Decision. 

Watershed and Habitat Restoration

S&G: MA-8 (Forest Plan, page 4-137) 

 RM-2, WR-1 (NW Forest Plan Record of Decision pages 34 and 36) 

References: 2-2 

The various proposed projects at Camp McLoughlin (shore-line stabilization, replacement of pit 

toilets, relocation of camp sites etc.) would not affect late-successional reserves, but would be 

habitat improvements consistent with the S&G's on pages C17 and C34 of the NW Forest Plan 

Record of Decision. Creation of potholes and installation of eagle perches between the Westside 

Road and the Upper Klamath National Wildlife Refuge was found to be consistent with the 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 31 

desired future condition of MA-8A (Forest plan, page 4-139) and Wildlife and Fish S&G 3 in the 

Management Area 8 general guidance (Forest plan, page 4-137). 

Integrated Pest Management

S&G: 8-11, 8-12 (Forest Plan, page 4-59) 

References: 1-6, 3-1, 3-7 

Hazard trees were removed from locations around Lake of the Woods in the winter and early 

spring of 1995. Root rots (Armillaria ostoyae and Heterobasidion annosum) were found in 

stumps and logs after the trees had been felled as had been expected. Borax treatments were used 

on stumps to prevent the entry of Heterobasidion annosum into new areas. The removal of the 

hazard trees and their replacement with species that are more resistant to the root rots aims to 

control this problem in a way that is consistent with the developed recreation management 

prescribed for the area. This is consistent with S&G 8-11 and 8-12. 

Field reviews on May 2 and June 2 indicated significant tree mortality over a large area of the 

Chiloquin District. Average mortality appeared to be at the 20% level with up to 50% mortality 

in the old-growth stands. Mortality is primarily white fir with some ponderosa pine. The District 

was encouraged to use silvicultural treatments to deal with the situation in accordance with the 

Forest Plan (S&G 8-12). It was also noted that significant mortality was occurring in stands 

which have had the overstory removed and the understory thinned. 

Raptors and Colonial Nesting Birds

S&G: 4-10 (Forest Plan, page 4-48) 

References: 3-1 

During a review of the Hazard Tree Sale at Lake of the Woods it was found that the logging 

operation was being performed within the time requirements of the biological evaluation in 

accordance with S&G 4-10 

Facilities

S&G: 3-3, 3-7, 3-10, 3-11, 3-24, 3-25 (Forest Plan, page 4-44 and 4-45) 

References: 1-4, 1-8, 3-11 

During a review of the Hazard Tree Sale at Lake of the Woods it was found that in some places 

(near log decks on the Westside Road) the ditchline and cutbanks were damaged and logging 

slash was found in the ditchline and on the road. This was to be corrected in accordance with 

S&G 1-4. 

A lot of non-system roads were observed in the Dorf Timber Sale area. Many of these should be 

returned to vegetative productivity in accordance with S&G's 3-3 and 3-7. 

Insufficient maintenance (i.e. lack of gravel) was noted in the driveway near the Lone Pine 

Building on the Chiloquin Ranger Station grounds. Such problems are to be identified during 

condition surveys (S&G 3-25) and corrected in accordance with S&G 3-26. 

Timber S&G: 13-3, 13-6, 13-26 (Forest Plan, pages 4-78 and 4-82) 

References: 1-5, 1-7, 1-10, 3-2 

There was an abundance of slash generated from the Slick Timber Sale unit adjacent to Road 

3610. The Ranger District is working with the purchaser to utilize this material in accordance 

with the Forest Plan (S&G 13-26). 

A review of the proposed Giddyup Sale marking revealed insufficient removals to effectively 

culture ponderosa pine. The EA indicated volumes around 400 mbf, but that was not reflected in 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 32 

the marking. Treatments anticipated in the Forest Plan (pages 4-32 and 4-33) were developed to 

achieve multiple resource goals while still being practical to manage. If insufficient volumes are 

removed for the purposes of the treatment or insufficient volumes are removed for economic 

practicality, the goals of the Forest Plan can not be achieved. 

Nannie Unit 37 was scheduled for tractor yarding. Slopes were in the range of 28 to 32% so this 

is in accordance with S&G 13-6. 

A September 18 field review suggested that the Canby Salvage Sale could be regeneration 

harvested due to it's being lodgepole pine around 150 years old. This would be consistent with 

S&G 13-3 and the Regional Guide, as referenced in the Forest plan. 

A timber faller was seriously injured by a falling tree on the Odessa Timber Sale. There were a 

large number of dead trees designated for retention and for removal in the area of the accident. 

As discussed on page 25 of the 1994 Monitoring Report, the numerous dead trees were retained 

for snags and a continuing supply of down material. This was in excess of the 40% snag habitat 

level that was defined in the Forest Plan and which was based, in part, on the level of snags that 

could be safely retained. While the contractor is ultimately responsible for logging safety, it may 

be possible to encourage the use of equipment such as a machine shear with a protective canopy 

in situations like this where terrain permits. 

On a March 16 visit to the Hazard Tree Salvage Sale, it was noted that sale administration, 

logging operations, and utility operations were all being carefully coordinated so as to operate in a 

safe manner. This is a remarkable achievement given the complexity of the situation among the 

summer homes at Lake of the Woods. 

Recreation

 S&G: 10-4, 10-6, 10-12, MA-1C, MA-2A (Forest Plan, pages 4-70, 4-90 and 4-96 ) 

References: 1-11, 3-4, 3-5 

On August 17, there was evidence of ORV use on the Yamsey Mountain Trail and no signs 

prohibiting this activity were seen. This is not in accordance with MA-1A, Recreation S&G 3. 

On September 2, a number of inadequately maintained waterbars were seen on trails in the Sky 

Lakes Wilderness (Sevenmile Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Trail 981 and Grass Lake Trail). This is 

not in accordance with S&G 10-12. (Note: repair work is being done in FY-96) 

Corral Springs Campground is in MA-2A and is minimally developed. A field review on August 

29 confirmed that the site, after rehabilitation, now conforms to the roaded natural recreation 

opportunity spectrum category as required in the Forest Plan (MA-2A, Recreation S&G #1). 

Potable water is not supplied. This is in accordance with the Forest Plan (MA-2, Recreation S&G 

#2). The site was found to be barrier free in accordance with S&G 10-6. A retaining wall was 

built on the site without consultation with an engineer or landscape architect. This is not in 

accordance with S&G 10-4. 

The Walt Haring Snopark was examined on August 29. A shelter has been proposed. At the 

review, the shelter was realigned to improve accessibility in accordance with S&G 10-6. At the 

same time, it was revealed that users often move the table at the accessible picnic site into the 

shade thus creating a barrier to people with handicaps. It is expected that the construction of the 

accessible shaded picnic spot will eliminate this problem. 

Off road vehicle use is occurring in the Jackson Creek Campground in violation of S&G 10-11. 

A field review on September 14 revealed that off-road vehicle use was severely compacting soils 

and apparently leading to a great deal of stress on the trees. No silvicultural treatment will be 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 33 

effective in improving the overall situation until compaction damage to the feature trees is halted 

by containing vehicle use to appropriate areas. 

Late Successional Reserve Management

S&G: NW Forest plan ROD pages C-9 through C-21, 13-1 (Forest Plan page 4-78) 

References: 1-13, "Late Successional Reserve Assessment for RO227, RO228, and 

RO229 on the Klamath ranger District, Winema National forest" 

An LSR Assessment for LSR's in the Klamath Ranger District has been completed in compliance 

with the S&G's on page C-11 of the Record of Decision of the NW Forest Plan. 

A sizeable area of Late Successional Reserve (LSR) on the southwest slopes of Pelican Butte was 

found to be ready for some regeneration harvest if continuation of this habitat into the future is 

desired. This potential for habitat degradation is recognized in the LSR assessment (page 24). 

For the first few sales in the LSR, trees over 18" in dbh have been excluded from harvest. While 

a group selection type harvest (e.g. 1/6 of the area with 30 year entries) would permit the desired 

regeneration, the size limit makes this type of treatment impossible (most trees are over 18"). 

Such regeneration harvest could be acceptable under the S&G's (NWFP page C-12 and C-13), to 

the extent that it was designed to reduce the risk of large-scale disturbances and met with the 

approval of the Regional Ecosystem Office. The LSR assessment envisions regeneration harvest 

in stands infected with Armilaria root rot (page 32 and 36) and for late successional enhancement 

(page 37) in groups of from two to nine acres. Harvest is acceptable under S&G 13-1(2) if the 

project were designed to enhance other (non-timber) resource values. While no S&G's are 

violated by limiting harvest to trees less that 18" diameter, this requirement may limit the ability 

of the Forest to maintain desired LSR conditions over the whole LSR for the long term. 

Range

S&G: 9-2, 9-18, 9-26 (Forest Plan page 4-62, 4-67, 4-69) 

References: 3-8, 3-9, 3-6 

Water from Butler Spring has been diverted into a large tank with a outlet valve for filling of 

water tankers for fire suppression. This bypasses a stock tank. Unless a line officer has excepted 

this stock tank from maintenance requirements, it is not being maintained in accordance with 

S&G 9-26. 

On May 3, it was noted that the fence around Ridge Spring was damaged. The District Range 

Conservationist was notified so that it could be maintained in accordance with S&G 3-8. At the 

same time it was noted that Powerline Pond was low on water and could be leaking. This pond 

may not be needed. The need for this pond can be reevaluated in accordance with S&G 9-18 or it 

can be maintained in accordance with S&G 9-26. 

A September 5 field review found that forage utilization on the Dams Meadow-Switchback 

Allotment and the East Chiloquin Ridge Allotment were in accordance with S&G 9-2 (light to 

moderate use except in a couple of localized areas). 

MANAGEMENT AREA ACREAGES

The Winema National Forest has implemented an electronic Geographical Information System 

(GIS). The "map of record" depicting the Management Areas on the Forest is maintained in that 

system. The initial mapping was installed in the system and made available in 1992. This section 

describes the changes seen from 1992 to 1993, as the Forest Plan was initially implemented and 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 34 

the changes seen from 1993 to 1996 when significant amendments were made to the Plan. The 

following table displays the acreages: 

MANAGEMENT AREA ACREAGE CHANGES 

MA

Name

MA

Code

1992

Acre

s

1993

Acres

1996

Acres

TOTAL 

CHANGE

1992-1996

Yamsay Mtn. 01A 8,478 8,488 8,458 0% 

Brown Mtn. 01B 3,320 3,313 01BLSR 3,313 0% 

Pelican Butte 01C 11,199 11,198 01C 7,429 

01CLSR 3,769

Total = 11,198 

0% 

Developed 

Recreation 

02 2,934 2,957 02 1,093 

02LSR 1,876

Total = 2,969 

+1% 

(23 acres) 

Scenic 

Foreground 

Retention 

03A 24,991 25,934 03A 13,268 

03AMAT 8,015

Total = 21,283 

-15% 

(3,708 acres) 

Scenic 

Foreground 

Partial Retention 

03B 24,107 24,082 03B 16,448 

03BMAT 4,447

Total = 20,895 

-13% 

(3,212 acres) 

Scenic 

Midground 

Partial Retention 

03C 77,170 83,443 03C 32,467 

03CMAT 26,291

Total = 58,758 

-24% 

(18,412 acres) 

Special Areas 04 17,714 17,916 17,914 +1% (200 acres) 

Sycan River 05 5,111 2,268 2,268 -56% (2,843 acres) 

Mt Thielsen 06A 25,901 26,036 26,036 +1% (135 acres) 

Sky Lakes 06B 44,060 44,048 44,358 +1% (298 acres) 

Mountain Lakes 06C 22,997 22,989 22,990 0% 

Old Growth 07 35,228 34,523 21,456 -39% (13,772 

acres) 

More Old 

Growth 

07OG 24,373 24,371 22,835 -6% (1,538 acres) 

Riparian Areas 08 46,902 47,908 08 38,897 

18LSR 5,830 

18MAT 11,355

Total = 56,082 

+20% 

(9,180 acres) 

Eagle Nest 

and 

Recovery Sites 

09A 6,964 7,027 09A 3,529 

09ALSR 943 

09AMAT 2,555

Total = 7,027 

+1% 

(63 acres) 

Eagle 

Replacement 

Habitat 

09B 9,763 9,739 09B 1,934 

09BLSR 2,289 

09BMAT 5,395

Total = 9,618 

-1% 

(145 acres) 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 35 

MA

Name

MA

Code

1992

Acre

s

1993

Acres

1996

Acres

TOTAL 

CHANGE

1992 TO 1996

Eagle Winter 

Roost 

09C 1,943 1,944 09CLSR 2,201 

09CMAT 193

Total = 2,394 

+23% 

(451 acres) 

Big Game 

Winter Range 

10 39,848 39,844 39,631 -1% 

(217 acres) 

Timber 

Production 

12 565,181 561,650 12 461,571 

12MAT 82,680

Total = 544,251 

-4% 

(20,930 acres) 

Research Natural 

Areas 

13 2,698 2,697 13 1,470 

13LSR 1,169

Total = 2,639 

-2% 

 (59 acres) 

Upper 

Williamson 

15 38,407 38,490 38,557 0% 

Late 

Successional 

Reserves 

16 0 0 57,909 New MA 

Lakes LAKE 2,381 2,382 518 -78% (1,863 acres) 

Boundary adjustments resulting from better field data can affect the acreages displayed in the 

GIS. For that reason the acreage of a Management Area must change by a minimum of 5% 

before it is considered cause for concern. There are ten Management Areas that have changed 

acreage in excess of 5%. These are discussed below. 

From implementation of the original map of record in 1992 to 1993, changes were relatively 

minor. The net acreage of the Forest decreased by 1,577 acres as the result of a land exchange. 

Viewshed mapping was updated, resulting in some acreage shifts. The largest change was a 

6,270 acre increase in middle ground (MA 03C). These acres came from MA 12 (3,427 acres) 

and MA 5 (2,843 acres). The change in MA 5 came with Amendment 4 to the Forest Plan (Sycan 

Wild and Scenic River Management Plan). That amendment revised the boundary of the scenic 

corridor from a fixed width, as in the original Forest Plan, to a variable width that better reflected 

the geography of the area. The only other notable change was an increase of 1,006 acres (2%) in 

MA 8 (Riparian Areas). This resulted from the initiation of more refined field mapping of these 

areas. 

Major changes occured with the adoption of Forest Plan Amendment 5 (Northwest Forest Plan). 

This amendment overlaid the concept of Late Successional Reserves (LSR's) and Matrix lands on 

top of the Management Areas which were in effect prior to the amendment. Where the original 

Management Areas were more restrictive than the guidance for LSR's they retained their original 

identity, but were tagged as being within LSR's. Where the LSR guidance was more restrictive, 

the acres were placed in the new Management Area 16. Since matrix designation had little effect 

upon the existing management areas, most of them retained their original designations, but were 

tagged as being within matrix lands. An exception occurred with lakes where, under the 

definition of riparian reserves in the Northwest Forest Plan, Four Mile Lake and Lake of the 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 36 

Woods were assigned to Management Areas 18MAT and 18LSR respectively. Only Miller Lake 

remains in the 'Lake' Management Area. 

The major acreage decreases are attributable to the creation of Management Area 16 from 

portions of Managment Areas 03A, 03B, 03C, 07, 07OG, and 12. The decrease in Management 

Area 5 is discussed above. 

A 9,180 acre increase (20%) in riparian areas resulted from new definitions in Amendment 5 

(including direction to include lakes in riparian reserves, see above) and refined field work in 

accordance with Forest Plan direction (page 4-236 of the Forest Plan). 

Since all of the significant changes (those in excess of 5% of a Management Area's Forest-wide 

acreage), individually and cumulatively, were addressed in one of several amendments to the 

Forest Plan, they are not of concern and no special recommendations are warranted. 

 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 37 

Monitoring Item: Accomplishment of Outputs and Services

 

The findings and recommendations related to each of the monitored items are discussed below. A table 

which displays the accomplishments from 1991 through 1995 follows the narrative. 

Allowable Sale Quantity:

Findings: The decade total is well below planned levels. Since the ASQ has been defined as a 

ceiling, not to be exceeded, there is no problem. It should be noted, however, that the ASQ is 

calculated as the base level of harvest necessary to produce a non-declining flow of timber for the 

long term as required by law. Harvest below the level of the ASQ is likely to reduce the availability 

of sawtimber, for the use of future generations, from projected levels. 

Recommendations: Revise the Forest Plan so that appropriate consideration can be given to the loss 

of future options associated with the current management direction and to establish an appropriate 

ASQ. 

Timber Sale Program Quantity: 

Findings: The threshold of concern is a level 25% below planned accomplishment. After five years 

of implementation the TSPQ is 55% below planned levels. One component of the TSPQ is the 

harvest of dead lodgepole pine which is discussed below. Without the dead lodgepole pine 

component, the TSPQ would be 61% below planned levels. If no further excessive lodgepole pine 

mortality is anticipated, it would be necessary to harvest about 204 mmbf per year for the next five 

years to achieve Forest Plan objectives. If lodgepole pine mortality were to continue, the TSPQ 

would have to average over 258 mmbf per year for the next five years to achieve Forest Plan 

objectives. Current litigation, planning exercises, and administrative screens make it unlikely that 

this objective can be achieved. 

Recommendations: Revise the Forest Plan to reflect new information developed by the Eastside 

Ecosystem Management Project and the NW Forest Plan and adjust the TSPQ as appropriate. 

Dead Lodgepole Pine Sold

Findings: In board foot measure, the rate of dead lodgepole pine harvest is 34% below planned 

levels. Although this exceeds the 10% threshold of concern, it is not a major problem because, as 

noted in the Record of Decision, the rate of harvest is very dependent upon the rate of mortality in 

lodgepole pine. The rate of mortality has been dropping below projected levels as discussed in the 

Insects and Disease monitoring item and the Timber Inventory monitoring items. 

Recommendations: No special recommendation. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 38 

Ponderosa Pine Sold

Findings: The very limited amount of harvest of ponderosa pine during 1994 and 1995, 

due to administrative screening processes, brought the 5-year total harvest to a level 46% 

below planned levels. This is well in excess of the 10% threshold of concern. With the 

screens in place there is no prospect of reaching planned levels of harvest. 

Recommendations: Revise the Forest Plan to reflect new information developed by the 

Eastside Ecosystem Management Project and the NW Forest Plan and adjust the 

ponderosa pine sold estimate as appropriate 

Silvicultural Treatments

Findings: Commercial Thins: 58% below planned levels 

 Overstory Removal: 82% below planned levels 

Regeneration Harvest: 6% above planned levels 

Selection Harvest: 66% below planned levels 

 Salvage Cut - Lodgepole: 77% below planned levels 

With a threshold of concern at 25% from planned levels, all silvicultural treatments except 

regeneration harvest are of concern. The low level of lodgepole pine salvage is a result of 

lower mortality than anticipated and is consistent with the rationale for harvest discussed 

in the Forest Plan Record of Decision. The results of these activity levels are reflected in 

the concerns expressed with regard to the mule deer, plant/animal diversity, and socioeconomic monitoring items. Current planning exercises, litigation, and administrative 

screens make it unlikely that planned activity levels can ever be reached. 

Recommendations: Revise the Forest Plan to reflect new information developed by the 

Eastside Ecosystem Management Project and the NW Forest Plan and adjust the estimates 

of silvicultural treatments as appropriate. 

Reforestation

Findings: Reforestation is running 33% ahead of planned levels. This is in excess of the 

10% threshold. Prior to the 1993 and 1994 reforestation efforts on the Lone Pine burn 

area, reforestation was running only 13% above planned levels. With the low number of 

acres being harvested, reforestation should decline and fall below planned levels before 

the end of the planning period. 

Recommendations: No special recommendation. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 39 

Timber Stand Improvement

Findings: TSI work is at 49% of planned levels. A 10% variation from planned levels 

generates concern. These levels of TSI are also reflected in the mule deer and 

plant/animal diversity monitoring items. The combination of current litigation, planning 

efforts, and administrative screens makes it unlikely that this activity will reach planned 

levels. 

Recommendations: Revise the Forest Plan to reflect new information developed by the 

Eastside Ecosystem Management Project and the NW Forest Plan and adjust the estimates 

of TSI treatments as appropriate. 

Fuel treatment: 

Findings: Fuel treatment activities are 25% below planned levels. A 10% variation from 

planned levels is cause for concern. 

Recommendations: Backlogs are believed to be increasing although hard numbers are 

not available. It appears that the only reason for not reaching planned levels is the lack of 

management interest in achieving those levels. It is recommended that fuel treatment 

activities increase at least to a level that will avoid increases in treatment backlog. 

Road Construction/Reconstruction:

Findings: Road construction activities are at 93% below planned levels. A 10% variation 

from planned levels is cause for concern. Forest roads are constructed only when needed 

and not on the average yearly schedule of the Forest Plan. With the lower timber harvest 

levels of the last three years the demand for new roads has been well below that 

anticipated in the Forest Plan. The reduction of the Capital Improvement Program for 

Roads and lack of funding for road reconstruction projects has resulted in less road 

reconstruction than anticipated in the Forest Plan. 

Recommendations: No special recommendations. 

Total Road System and Road Access Management:

Findings: After 5 years, the Forest road system is 13% larger than planned. The level of 

concern is a 5% deviation from planned levels. In general, the reduction of the Total 

Forest Road System through road obliteration and road closures, to meet the objectives in 

the Forest Plan, has not yet begun. The objectives can be achieved over the remainder of 

the Plan Period. The excess road system has effects on other Forest resources such as 

mule deer habitat. 

Recommendation: Proceed to implement and enforce the road management decisions 

made in the Forest Plan ROD, or modify the Forest Plan. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 40 

Road Access Type:

Findings: Passenger car access is at 95% of planned levels, high clearance access is at 

111% of planned levels and intermittent access is at 117% of planned levels. A variation 

of more than 10% from planned levels is cause for concern, so only passenger car access 

is at an acceptable level. The reasons for this situation are the same as those described for 

the Total road system monitoring item above. 

Recommendation: Proceed to implement and enforce the road management decisions 

made in the Forest Plan ROD, or modify the Forest Plan. 

Developed Recreation Construction

Findings: Recreation construction is slightly behind schedule with 45% of the planned 

construction for the decade completed after 50% of the decade. With no additional 

construction scheduled for the next year or two, this item should fall further behind 

schedule until near the end of the decade when new construction should cause it to reach 

the planned level. 

Recommendations: No special recommendation. 

Trail Construction/reconstruction

Findings: Trail construction/reconstruction at 27.7 miles after 5 years is 22% of planned 

levels. The inter-tie trail construction is scheduled for late in the decade so the current 

situation is not a cause for concern. 

Recommendations: No special recommendation. 

Permitted Livestock Grazing

Findings: At 87% of planned levels, permitted livestock grazing has not reached a level 

of concern. 

Recommendations: No special recommendation. 

Range Improvements

Findings: Since planned levels were not stated in the Forest Plan, there is no way to 

evaluate progress. 

Recommendations: When the Forest plan is next modified, include an estimate of range 

improvements (structures and acres) needed to meet the objectives established for the 

resource. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 41 

Wildlife Habitat Improvements 

Findings: Since planned levels were not stated in the Forest Plan, there is no way to 

evaluate progress. 

Recommendations: When the Forest Plan is next modified, include an estimate of 

wildlife habitat improvements (structures and acres) needed to meet the objectives 

established for the resource. Split this out between "threatened and endangered species" 

and "other species" so that the relative stress being given to the two areas can be 

displayed. 

Watershed Improvement Work 

Findings: Since planned structures are not noted in the Forest plan, progress can not be 

evaluated. The Forest Plan indicates an average of 10 acres of improvement per year. 

After five years, accomplishment is well in excess of the established threshold of concern. 

Recommendations: Due to increased emphasis on watershed improvement as a result of 

the President's Plan for the Pacific Northwest Forests, the Forest Plan should be modified 

to project more realistic estimates of accomplishment. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 42 

Monitoring Item Plan 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 Remaining for Plan Period

Allowable Sale Quantity

 MMCF/year 19.4 15.8 2.0 21.5 2.0 6.2 29.3 MMCF per 

year

Timber Sale Program Quantity

 MMCF/year

 MMBF/year

34.7

166.8

23.7

119.2

8.8

49.0

31.8

158.6

2.9

16.3

6.7

33.5

54.6 MMCF per year

258.3 MMBF per year

Dead Lodgepole Pine Sold

 MMCF/year

 MMBF/year

11.5

40.2

6.1

30.8

6.3

36.5

9.9

48.7

0.9

4.2

2.4

12.6

17.9 MMCF per year

53.8 MMBF per year

Ponderosa Pine Sold

 MMCF/year

 MMBF/year

8.8

53.9

6.0

30.2

1.5

7.7

18.1

91.3

0.9

4.4

2.3

11.6

11.8 MMCF per year

78.8 MMBF per year

Silvicultural Treatments (Acres/Year)

 Commercial Thins

 Overstory Removal

 Regeneration Harvest

 Selection Harvest

 Salvage Cut - Lodgepole

2,700 

1,600

500

8,400

13,700

2,300

900

200

7,400

6,700

0

200

100

800

6,300

200

200

0

2,500

100

549

162

1,285

619

0

2,688

0

1,054

2,851

975

4,253 Acres per year

2,908 Acres per year

472 Acres per year

13,966 Acres per year

24,585 Acres per year

Reforestation (Acres/Year) 6,400 7,833 6,590 9,204 10,137 8,951 4,257 Acres per year

Timber Stand Improvement (Acres/Year) 14,400 6,660 7,265 8,644 8,181 6,032 21,443 Acres per year

Fuel Treatment (Acres/Year) 27,600 30,961 23,286 14,236 25,469 9,497 34,510 Acres per year

Road Construction/Reconst (Miles/Year)

 Forest Road Program

 Timber Purchaser Roads

22

31

2.0

27.6

2.3

0.0

2.0

0.0

2.7

0.0

6.7

0.0

204.3 miles remaining

282.4 miles remaining

Total Road System (Miles) 5,517 6,200 6,200 6,208 6,208 6,208 691 miles to be reduced

Road Access Management (Miles)

 Open for Use

 Closed to Use -

-

4,932

1,268

5,030

1,170

5,106

1,102

4,938

1,270

4,938

1,270

Not projected

Not projected

Road Access Type (Miles)

 Passenger Car

 High Clearance Vehicle

 Intermittent Access

510

2,120

2,887

490

2,376

3,345

490

2,376

3,345

483

2,361

3,365

483

2,360

3,365

483

2,360

3,365

Need 27 more miles

Need 240 fewer miles

Need 478 fewer miles

Developed Recreation Construc (PAOT) 695 90 140 80 0 0 385 PAOT (55% left)

Trail Construction/Reconst (Miles) 124 1.0 15.0 4.1 7.5 0.1 96.3 Miles (78% left)

Permitted Livestock Grazing (AUM) 13,000 13,000 13,000 14,418 10,102 6,090 14,732 AUM each year

Range Improvements

 Structures

 Acres -

-

11

2

5

13

6

10

0

0

10

0

No value established in 

the Forest Plan

Wildlife Habitat Improvement

 Threatened & Endangerd Species

 Structures

 Acres

 Other Species

 Structures

 Acres

-

-

-

-

0

115

2,834

320

45

130

516

2,618

0

25

255

979

0

299

549

2,624

25

172

1,533

3,379

No value established in 

the Forest Plan

Watershed Improvement Work

 Structures

 Acres -

10

na

72

na

9

na

na

2

107

13

292

No value established

None
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 43 

Monitoring Item: Budget 

Objective: 

Document the costs associated with carrying out the planned management prescriptions as 

compared with costs estimated in the Forest Plan 

Monitoring Questions: 

Is funding sufficient to implement the Forest Plan? 

Threshold of Concern: 

Annual variation of more than 20 percent from Forest Plan amount, five-year average variation of 

more than 10 percent, or insufficient funds to implement the Forest Plan. 

Results and Findings:

This the fifth year of the Forest Plan (FY 1991 - 1995), both the 1995 expenditures and the four 

year average were reviewed to consider the affects of expenditures on implementation of the 

Forest Plan. Political decisions have affected the budget priorities and expenditures. Ecosystem 

management, watershed analysis, water rights and timber are changes in programs occurring after 

the Forest Plan was signed. These shifts in funding categories make it difficult to directly track 

year-to-year changes in comparison to Forest Plan estimates. 

Total budget dollars are below Forest Plan levels. Output levels are also generally below Forest 

Plan levels, but for reasons other than insufficient budgets (see Monitoring Item: 

Accomplishment of Outputs and Services). Exceptions are in range management and scenery 

where funding levels limited accomplishments (see Monitoring Item: Range Vegetation and 

Monitoring item: Scenery). Monitoring indicates that budget levels are sufficient to meet the 

standards and guidelines in the Forest Plan at the current output levels (see Monitoring Item: 

Standards and Guidelines) which are well below the outputs levels for key resources projected in 

the Forest Plan. 

Dollars were all converted to 1982 dollars for comparison purposes. 

BUDGET EXPENDITURES BY RESOURCE

(1982 Dollars) 

Resource Area Forest Plan 4 Year Average FY-1995

Recreation $1,086,200 $769,600 $469,300 

Fish, Wildlife, T&E Species $810,900 $557,000 $627,100 

Range $269,200 $166,500 $296,300 

Lands & Minerals $284,800 $246,700 $170,600 

Facilities $1,553,600 $1,220,800 $950,200 

Timber Management $7,536,800 $8,386,000 $5,660,100 

Soil, Water, Air $367,300 $980,500 $143,600 

Protection & Law Enforcement $1,835,500 $1,770,400 $1,156,600 

Administration & Planning $1,920,000 $1,766,400 $3,211,300 

TOTALS $15,664,300 $15,863,900 $12,685,100 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 44 

Evaluation:

As the years have passed, it has become increasingly difficult to compare current year budgets to 

projections in the Forest Plan. For example, administration and planning shows a large increase for 

FY-1995 when the changes were simply in the manner of accounting. In 1995, coding systems were 

changed to allow overhead costs that were formerly associated with projects, and thus resource 

areas, to be assigned to administration. This had the apparent effect of reducing resource budgets 

and increasing overhead expenses when, in reality, nothing had changed. Nonetheless, we can see 

that over the first four years of plan implementation the total budget was close to Forest Plan 

estimates although timber management received more funding than anticipated while other programs 

received less. This was, in part, due to increasing costs of activities required before harvest could 

occur. With significantly lower timber outputs than projected, the unit costs for this work rose 

dramatically. 

The fiscal 1995 budget is 20% less than the four year average. This seems to be a developing trend 

with additional reductions of up to 15% anticipated for FY-97 and FY-98. Clearly, these budget 

levels are insufficient to manage the Forest as described in the Forest Plan. There are, however, 

other reasons, including implementation of the NW Forest Plan amendment and the Eastside 

Screens/Inland Fish amendments, behind lowered outputs. These amendments did not revise Forest 

Plan budget estimates. 

Recommended Action:

Budget analysis, as required by the Forest Monitoring Plan, has not been a realistic measure of 

whether or not direction in the Forest Plan is being achieved. Key problems have been the way in 

which funds are accounted, changes in accounting procedures, and an imprecise link between 

budgets and achievement of outputs and standards and guidelines. It is therefore recommended that 

the Forest Monitoring Plan be revised to incorporate budget considerations into the analysis 

performed by each resource specialist as was done for Range Vegetation this year. This will allow 

an integrated look at the relationship between budgets and accomplishments. It is also 

recommended that the All Resources Reporting System, as it is formalized, be used as the basis for 

evaluating budget impacts upon outputs and the achievement of Standards and Guidelines. It is not 

known whether the All Resources Reporting System will report data consistently from year to year. 

If not, it may be necessary to develop a Forest-specific scheme for developing consistent budget 

figures for monitoring purposes. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 45 

Monitoring Item: Developed Recreation Sites

 

Monitoring Objective:

Determine if developed site capacity is adequate to meet demand and if facilities and services are 

responsive to customer expectations and desires. Determine if unacceptable resource damage is 

occurring because of visitor use or facility design. 

Monitoring Questions:

Is additional site capacity needed to met the demand for developed camping? 

Are customer needs being met? 

Is unacceptable resource damage occurring? 

Threshold of Concern:

Visitor use exceeds 90 percent of practical maximum capacity for the season. Customer feedback 

indicates that desired facilities and services compatible with the ROS class and development level 

are NOT being provided or adequately maintained. Significant resource damage, such as vegetation 

loss or soil erosion, has occurred or a negative trend has been noted. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

 Monitor level of use and condition of facilities throughout the use season. Use systematic sampling 

techniques to periodically measure use. Report actual use annually per Regional Recreation 

Information System (RRIS) instructions. [INFRASTRUCTURE replaces RRIS in 1996.] Collect 

customer comments obtained through visitor contacts and from fee envelopes, public meetings, and 

correspondence. Resource Staff and Recreation Specialist conduct field reviews of developed sites 

annually to assess facility and site condition. 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness 

Results and Findings:

Total reported recreation use on the Forest was down about two percent from 1994. Developed 

public site use and dispersed area use reported for Klamath District increased, but all other use 

categories by District were down slightly. This includes reduced use at developed private sites 

(Klamath District), wilderness (Chemult and Klamath Districts), and dispersed areas (Chemult and 

Chiloquin Districts) and developed sites (Chemult and Chiloquin Districts). Increased dispersed use 

on the Klamath District was noted last fall by large groups seeking more secluded & less restricted 

camping. 

Although 1994 use data has been converted to INFRASTRUCTURE from RRIS and 1995 use data 

has been entered into the new data base, no reports are available at this time to extract use figures by 

activity and site/area. Therefore an analysis of use by activities and comparison to Forest Plan and 

SCORP projections will not be completed for this monitoring report. Demand for developed 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 46 

camping reportedly continues to exceed capacity at Lake of the Woods campgrounds for portions of 

the year, as well as at numerous other smaller campgrounds during deer hunting season. 

Forest-wide feedback received from developed site users has been predominately favorable 

concerning facilities provided, condition and cleanliness of facilities, and the quality of the setting. 

Most critical comments pointed out minor repair and cleanup needs which were generally corrected 

quickly. Specific negative comments were directed at the hand pump at Williamson River CG (hard 

to operate), the flooding of the snowmobile play area at Great Meadow, logging in the L.O.W. Rec. 

Residence Tract and at Odessa CG, and the fencing at Head of the River that restricted camping 

during hunting season. One complaint was received concerning the perceived exclusive use of the 

Rocky Ford area by tribal members. Customer complaints concerning late night traffic, illegal 

activities, and loud, boisterous behavior have also become more common, especially in the Lake of 

the Woods Complex. 

Specific positive comments were received concerning the development of accessible facilities at 

Wood River, the new Romtec toilets at several sites, the new High Lakes Trail and the availability of 

hiking/biking trails from sites at Lake of the Woods. Numerous comments were received in praise 

of clean facilities and grounds and the scenic settings Forest-wide. 

Some customers indicated that some additional facilities and services were needed: 

- Group camping area available by reservation. 

- Additional areas to ride mountain bikes, all terrain vehicles (ATV's) and motorcycles off system 

roads. 

- Camping and picnic sites with accessible toilets, water and power reserved for use by people 

with disabilities. 

- Facilities designed for camping with stock. 

- Shower facilities & electrical hook-ups in major campgrounds. 

- Snow shelters at Haring and Great Meadow Sno-parks. 

- Increased Forest Service presence (security, law enforcement and visitor information) at 

developed sites. 

- Reduced speed limits on Lake of the Woods and Miller Lake. 

Existing and planned recreation facilities and practices within riparian areas are being evaluated 

under President's Forest Plan and expected Eastside management guidelines. Some site relocations 

and the use of visitor or traffic control measures have been completed to meet Riparian Management 

Objectives. Several sites at Corral Springs CG were relocated away from riparian areas, closed sites 

were revegetated, and the remaining sites upgraded in 1995. A new fence was constructed at Head 

of the River CG to prevent vehicle traffic and camping in the adjacent meadow and riparian zone. 

Alternatives are being developed to deal with a similar situation at Jackson Ck. CG where 

uncontrolled vehicle use is leading to soil compaction and overstory mortality. Sections of the 

Miller Lake Trail were relocated to protect the lakeshore. Additional resource problem areas may be 

identified during the watershed analysis process (and follow-up to early FY 1996 flood events) and 

corrective actions planned. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 47 

Evaluation and Follow-up:

Use trends on the Forest were not analyzed for this report since use summary reporting is not yet 

available for the INFRASTRUCTURE data base. It is expected that overall use on the Forest has 

continued to track with SCORP/Forest Plan projections with some minor fluctuations due to weather 

and site closures for facility repairs. Refer to reports from previous years for latest identified trends. 

As indicated in the 1994 report, the Forest will not be able to met the demand for developed site 

camping in the Lake of the Woods complex. The Forest Plan schedules the addition of a group 

camping area in the first decade. This facility would meet the needs for a group camping area and 

serve as an overflow camping area when not reserved. However, funding in the near future will be 

very limited and use at existing facilities is currently causing use levels on the Lake which approach 

or exceed capacity for water activities. 

Accessibility surveys and a Transition Plan has been developed for all developed recreation sites. 

This plan prioritizes and schedules all the improvements needed to upgrade recreation sites on the 

Forest to meet accessibility standards. A project to complete the highest priority planned 

improvements at sites at Lake of the Woods was submitted as a proposed addition to the R-6 

Recreation Facility Capital Investment Program (CIP) in 1995, but was not selected. This project 

included upgrading of campsites, family and group picnic sites, boat launches, core facilities and 

travelways. One site was upgraded (with water, power & sewer) in 1995 in conjunction with 

relocating the host site in Sunset CG. A similar site upgrade in planned in Aspen Pt. CG in 1996. 

Other projects will be scheduled in the R-6 or Forest Small Project CIP at the earliest opportunity, 

but funding for construction projects is expected to be very limited. (Note: two additional sites were 

made accessible during FY-96 and two more are scheduled for FY-97.) 

Expanding and upgrading facilities at Williamson River Campground remains a priority project to 

meet accessibility standards, upgrade the water system, and provide additional capacity for campers 

in the US 97 corridor. There is an opportunity to partnership with Oregon State Parks in providing 

trails, trailheads, and additional camping capacity in the Spring Creek-Williamson River area. 

Planning of additional trails outside of wilderness as requested by users is continuing. The first 

phase of construction of the High Lakes Trail from Fish Lake to Aspen Point CG is scheduled to be 

completed by July 1996. Phase II construction from Aspen Point to Great Meadow Sno-park was 

constructed last summer. Reconstruction of a portion of Fourmile Lake CG to accommodate 

camping with stock and the construction of a horse group camping area and associated tie trails is 

planned to begin in the fall of 1996. The construction of a trail, trailhead and horse camp in the 

Yamsay Mtn. area has been deferred while the mountain is evaluated as a Traditional Cultural 

Property. 

Shelters were planned for construction at Great Meadow and Walt Haring Sno-parks during 1995. 

Unfortunately, bids received exceeded available funds. A multi-season shelter is planned again at 

Walt Haring Sno-park in 1996 using carry-over funds. The Great Meadow shelter will be added to 

the Forest CIP project schedule. 

Construction of accessible fishing platforms and boardwalk at Wood River Day-use Area will 

continue through a partnership with Integral Youth Services in 1996. Testing of accessible trail 

surfacing treatments at the site in co-operation with San Dimas Technical Development Center will 

also continue. A multi-year monitoring program to determine effectiveness of treatment types is in 

place. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 48 

Recommended Action:

The Forest Plan Goal to "meet the demand for developed camping" doesn't appear to be attainable. 

At Lake of the Woods, where most developed camping on the Forest occurs, adding additional sites 

may lead to exceeding resource capacity. Expansion of other sites on the Forest (Williamson River 

CG) and continuing to market underutilized sites (Digit Point CG) will not be enough to meet the 

expected demand. Funds to expand sites will be increasingly difficult to obtain with the emphasis on 

deficit reduction and urban Forest sites. Re-directing visitors to permittee and other agency sites 

may only help somewhat to fill some demand niches. For example, group camping may be provided 

for at Resorts or Collier State Park. 

Since funding for operation and maintenance is lagging behind Forest Plan levels, measures to 

reduce costs and maximize efficiency in site operations will need to be implemented to maintain the 

quality of the experience being provided at our developed sites. In 1996 the Lake of the Woods 

Complex (Sunset CG, Aspen Point CG, and Rainbow Bay Day-use Area) will be operated by a 

concessionaire. All users questioned last summer opposed this move, probably expecting the shift to 

result in increased prices and reduced quality of services. To ensure that we continue to meet 

customer needs, we will need to closely monitor the concessionaire's operations and require 

adjustments if needed. 

Meaningful Measures (MM) should be implemented for all other sites on the Forest by the end of 

1996. This process should facilitate identifying costs to meet standards, prioritizing sites & areas 

and determining where to invest resources, as well as identifying cost savings across the Forest. 

Trails and wilderness will be added in 1997. 

Generally, monitoring indicates that management direction is being followed and Forest Plan goals, 

except as noted above, are being met as well as possible within present funding levels. However, 

with reduced funding, trail and facility maintenance will be continue to be deferred or not 

accomplished to MM standards. No other immediate program or direction changes are 

recommended. 

 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 49 

Monitoring Item: Off-Road Vehicle Use

Monitoring Objective:

Determine if unacceptable resource damage and/or user conflicts are resulting from ORV use. 

Monitoring Questions:

Is ORV use occurring in areas where prohibited or restricted? 

Is ORV use causing unacceptable resource damage in areas where use is permitted? 

Are conflicts occurring between motorized and nonmotorized uses and between motorized use and 

wildlife? 

Threshold of Concern:

Unacceptable damage is noted. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Monitor use and site conditions through field observation and review public comments concerning 

ORV use. 

Results and Findings:

ORV use was noted within the Yamsey Mountain Semi-primitive Recreation area during August. 

Motorized vehicle use is excluded from this area in the Forest Plan, but closure signs have not been 

installed. 

Except in the Jackson Creek area (see page 32), no unacceptable resource damage caused by ORV 

use was reported. 

Some use conflicts have been noted between nonmotorized and motorized winter trail users. These 

are minimized by designating trails or areas for nonmotorized use only or by clearly indicating 

where shared used can be expected. No other conflicts have been reported. 

Evaluation:

None. 

Recommended Action:

Install traffic management signs prohibiting motorized use at the main entry points into the Yamsay 

Mountain Area. 

Continue to monitor as required by Executive Order. The passage of a new State Law in late 1995 

permits ATV/ORV use on all public roads in Oregon not maintained for passenger car use. This 

may result in user conflicts and safety concerns in some areas if such use increases. Monitor areas 

where conflicts may occur. 

Plan designated ORV trails/roads/areas as demand warrants and close areas or roads where 

significant resource damage is occurring or user conflicts develop. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 50 

Monitoring Item: Scenery

 

Monitoring Objective:

Assure that the visual quality objectives are being achieved across the Forest. 

Monitoring Questions:

Are the allocated visual quality levels being achieved? 

Threshold of Concern:

When the percentage of created opening exceeds the standards and guidelines for retention and 

partial retention visual quality levels on a viewshed basis. 

When desired target diameters and mix of tree species are not being achieved. 

When scenic management objectives are traded off to implement other resource activities in the 

scenic management areas. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

 Viewshed reviews will include a comparison of anticipated and actual effects. 

Viewsheds may be assessed using computer analyses for predictions of project implementation 

effects as well as verification after project completion. 

 Predicted changes in condition of scenic viewsheds will be assessed on a cumulative project basis 

and created openings recorded by size (acres) and estimated time of release (year) in TRI/GIS or 

other available geographic information system. 

Management Reviews and reports will be made at least annually. 

Camera point photography will be used to visually monitor scenic condition across the Forest over 

time. This requires establishment of a network of long-term camera point monument locations. 

Monitoring photography will be completed on a 3- to 5-year frequency. Special attention will be 

paid to the condition of scenery as viewed from identified travel routes affecting other agencies or 

interested parties such as Crater Lake National Park. 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 51 

Results and Findings:

No follow-up photography has been completed this year at camera point monument locations 

established to monitor scenery. Type 2 monitoring reviews have been completed and documentation 

letters are on file. Type 1 individual and informal monitoring trips have been completed between 

Forest and District personnel. Photographs taken on these field trips are available for future 

evaluation processes and comparisons. 

According to the "Viewshed Implementation Guide Schedule" in Table B-4 of the Forest Plan, the 

Silver Lake Road and Miller Lake Road are priority 1 for development of a viewshed 

implementation guide in the first five years of the planning period. This is the fifth year of the 

planning period. Two reasons have contributed to the pace of development of this guide. First, the 

management of the Forest lands have been in limbo for various reasons, and second, these guides 

have not been high enough in overall priorities to be funded with the limited budgets available. 

In Table B-5 of the Forest Plan, Miller Lake Recreation Area (which includes Digit Point 

Campground) and Corral Springs Campground are listed as priority 1 for completion of Vegetative 

Management Guides in the first five years of the planning period. Because a lodgepole salvage sale 

(Buck Timber Sale) was implemented in the Corral Springs area, a rehabilitation plan was developed 

in 1994 which includes planting of potted trees in the campground in lieu of a vegetative 

management guide. A guide for Miller Lake Recreation has been delayed because it has been 

identified on the District as a lower priority. 

According to the "Viewshed Implementation Guide Schedule" in Table B-4 of the Forest Plan, the 

Dead Indian Road and State Highway 62 are priority 1 on the Klamath District for development of a 

viewshed implementation guide in the first five years of the planning period. Viewshed guide 

development has been delayed due to limited budgets. 

In Table B-5 of the Forest Plan, Sunset Campground, Lake of the Woods VIS and Work Center and 

Fourmile Lake Campground are priority 1 for Vegetative Management Guide development within 

the first five years of the planning period. Similar reasons apply to the pace of vegetative 

management guide development as the pace of viewshed guide development. 

Overall scenic viewshed condition ratings were not completed this year using updated existing visual 

condition datum available in the geographical information system. The reason is that there was not 

sufficient management activity resulting in created openings within viewsheds to make a significant 

difference from the trend results calculated for 1994. 

Recommended Action:

None. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 52 

Monitoring Item: Wildlife-Mule Deer

 

Monitoring Objective:

Assure that habitat objectives are met. 

Validate habitat assumptions. 

Monitoring Questions:

What are the cumulative effects of open roads, alterations in cover, alterations of forage, 

livestock competition, water developments, and cover/forage distribution on deer habitat 

suitability? 

Threshold of Concern:

 A cumulative decrease of habitat suitability greater than 5 percent over five years. 

A cumulative decrease of any one of the habitat suitability index factors greater than 5 percent 

over five years. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Develop baseline data to determine changes in mule deer habitat suitability based on Interagency 

Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Mule Deer Model on random sample township-sized 

areas. 

Initially survey Forest over three-year period. Complete resurvey every three years. 

Cooperate with research study to determine causes of mule deer decline. 

Monitor forage condition, trend, production and utilization in riparian areas, winter range, and 

summer range bitterbrush communities. Complete analysis within five years, resurvey and 

analyze changes after next five years. 

Monitoring Type:

Implementation, Effectiveness, Validation 

Results and Findings:

In major projects on the two districts affected by the Consent Decree with The Klamath Tribes, 

deer habitat is always addressed. The overall rate of timber harvest and thinning is not rapid 

enough to provide the forage base to meet the projections of mule deer habitat and mule deer 

population response in the FEIS. The overall result of reduced timber harvest and reduced 

commercial thinning will be a reduced forage base for mule deer and ultimate decreases in mule 

deer populations. 

Further complications in the management of mule deer habitat is the failure of the Forest to fully 

implement road closures to mitigate disturbance of mule deer. Many roads that will eventually 

be closed are still usable and being used. Some members of the Klamath Tribes have expressed 

concerns regarding road closures and road obliteration on former reservation lands because they 

feel that closed roads interfere with their subsistence hunting rights. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 53 

Chiloquin District reported mule deer model runs for several areas during FY95. Only existing 

condition was reported, no modifiers were used. 

The model was used on the following analysis areas: 

Analysis Area Name Acres Pre-project HSI Post-project HSI

Shaws 1500 .29 .22 

Dorf Alt. 3 7018 .39 .37 

Total 8518 

 In FY95 the primary habitat improvement projects specifically designed for deer on the 

Chiloquin District were bitterbrush planting in the Lone Pine fire area. The purpose of the 

planting of 1,006 acres in 1995 was to accelerate the regrowth of browse. Several monitoring 

surveys of plantings were conducted to determine planting success. Following is a report of those 

surveys: 

I. Spring Survey; April,1995. 

a) 1993 plants: 363 acres, 3% over-winter mortality. 

b) 1994 plants: 590 acres, 9% over-winter mortality. 

II. 1995 Plants:

a) Transects set up to monitor bitterbrush planted in April,1995. 

Eleven (11) sets of transects were established in April/May across 1042 hand-planted, 

winter range acres with initial measurements taken. 

b) Survival/Vigor monitoring on all these transects in May, June, July, August, 

September and October. End-of-growing season transects (October) indicate that 

bitterbrush survival was at 87%. 

c) Three (3) transects were established to monitor 150 machine-planted acres in April, 

1995. These transects on summer/transitional range were later monitored once at the 

end-of-growing season (October) and results indicate 85% survival. 

d) Five hundred and seventeen (517) permanent, 1/50th acre plots were established on 

1461 acres of hand-planted, mule deer summer/transitional in October to monitor 

planting success. Results indicate survival in a range of 56% to 73% with success 

probably closer to the higher value. 

III. 1994 Plants: 

a) Eleven (11) sets of transects monitored over 590 acres indicated 23% success a year 

and a half after planting. This was an end-of-growing season survey conducted in 

October, 1995. These were on mule deer winter range. 

b) Three hundred seventeen (317), permanent 1/50th acre plots were surveyed on 1006 

acres of bitterbrush-planted summer/transitional range in August 1995. Results 

indicate 11% survival after approximately 15 months of being planted. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 54 

IV. 1993 Plants:

In 1993 monitoring plots were established in blocks utilizing mostly 1/50th acre plots. 

Results indicate 59% survival over 377 acres (312 acres winter range, 65 acres 

transitional range) 2 1/2 years after planting. This end-of-growing season survey was in 

October,1995. 

V. Pre-stocking Surveys: 

These surveys took place on mule deer winter,transitional,and summer range to 

determine the need for bitterbrush planting on various areas of the Lone Pine Wildfire 

Area. Approximately 11,655 acres were surveyed using non-permanent, 1/50th acre 

plots to determine the need for bitterbrush planting. The survey indicated an average of 

62 natural bitterbrush/acre (range 0-186/acre). Surveys were done in June, July and 

August 1995. 

The Chiloquin District continued an intensive deer sightings program (FFC - Fawn Finders 

Club) targeting fawn locations and behavior at the time of sighting. This resulted in several 

hundred fawn and doe sightings which help to identify fawning areas on the District. 

Mitigation, seasonal restriction periods, other analysis and recommendations conducted for 

mule deer on the Chiloquin District totaled approximately 500 person hours and affected 

224,388 acres. 

The Klamath District monitored nine water developments, all of which were full and functional. 

The District also closed ten roads which benefits habitat. 

The Forest is a cooperator with the Fremont N.F. and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife 

in a study on the Fremont N.F. for development and validation of a model. Preliminary 

indications of the study are that the forage base has dwindled because of ingrowth of white fir. 

Approximately 400 person hours were spent on coordination and field work by Forest 

personnel. 

Evaluation:

The sample monitoring technique specified above was available but unused in 1995. In the 

interim, the Districts were asked to provide information on a project basis on the components of 

the mule deer model, i.e. Habitat Suitability Index (HSI) if calculated, amount of hiding cover, 

roads density, etc. 

To meet the mule deer objectives stated in the Forest Plan will require an increase in harvest and 

commercial thinning to provide forage for deer as projected in the FEIS and will also require 

effectively closed roads for mitigation of disturbance. Harvest restrictions and an inability to 

resolve road closure issues leads one to the conclusion that mule deer habitat objectives will not 

be met in the foreseeable future. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 55 

Recommended Actions:

Test the monitoring model technique that was developed with the Fremont NF and ODF&W. 

Increase timber harvest and commercial thinning to provide forage for deer as projected in the FEIS. 

Effectively close roads for mitigation of disturbance to deer. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 56 

Monitoring Item: Wildlife-Elk

Monitoring Objective:

 Determine habitat use by elk in relationship to the level of use, distribution of use, and period of 

use. Use in conjunction with the results of the elk study to determine if there are conflicts with mule 

deer management and ultimately to determine habitat management objectives for both elk and mule 

deer. 

Monitoring Questions:

Are there conflicts with habitat use between mule deer and elk? 

Threshold of Concern:

 Competition detrimental to mule deer exhibited. 

Less than 75 percent of the habitat requirements of elk met by deer habitat management. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

 Review progress and results of interagency elk study east of HWY 97. 

Determine and document elk and deer habitat usage at the project level. 

Monitoring Type:

 Effectiveness 

Results and Findings:

The south central elk telemetry study was completed in FY93. The study identified gross calving 

and wintering areas on the Forest. 

No evaluation of deer/elk competition was done in 1994. 

ODFW completed draft management objectives for elk. The following table gives a rough estimate 

of population objectives on the Forest on an pro-rated by acreage basis. 

Estimated elk management objectives (population) for the Winema N.F.

Elk Management 

Zone

Est. 

Area

(sq. mi.)

Winema

(sq. mi.)

Percent

Winema

Zone

M.O. 

Winema

M.O. 

W.Ft. Rock/Indigo 2,397 177 7 4700 329 

E.Ft. Rock/Paulina 3,418 317 9 1600 144 

Keno/W. Sprague 1,168 348 30 700 210 

So. Central 4,214 768 18 3000 540 

Total 1223
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 57 

Note: Acres for W. Ft. Rock and Indigo are estimated assuming that W. Ft. Rock is 1/3 of Ft. 

Rock and that Indigo is approximately the same size as Ft. Rock. 

Acres of calving and winter range were determined using areas mapped in the South Central Elk 

Study entered into GIS. Acres of calving areas, winter range, and overlap between both on the 

Forest are tabulated below. 

 

Calving area 109,864 acres 

Winter range 29,927 acres 

Both 3,800 acres 

Elk was identified as an issue in an appeal by The Klamath Tribes. 

Chemult District planned three elk migration corridors totaling 790 acres in FY95. 

On Klamath District elk calving areas were identified in the Nannie-Rock Analysis Area. 

Restrictions on timber harvest were placed on ten units for elk calving. 

Evaluation:

Elk populations will continue to grow. Populations may reach the stage where unacceptable 

agricultural damage occurs before any competitive interaction with mule deer occurs. However, 

it is still too early to determine interactions with deer. 

The proportioned numbers of elk on the Forest to achieve state management objectives are so 

low that it might not be necessary to develop special analysis procedures or standards and 

guidelines for elk habitat management. 

The recommended actions from the 1994 Monitoring Report were not completed. 

Districts are considering elk in project analysis and mitigating as appropriate for calving and 

providing migration corridors. 

Recommended Action:

In coordination with ODFW and the Tribes, determine whether elk habitat analysis procedures 

or standards and guidelines are necessary; if it is so determined, develop habitat objectives and 

standards and guidelines for elk habitat management east of Hwy 97 for inclusion into the 

Forest Plan as an amendment. 

Coordinate with ODFW and the Tribes to refine the Forest's share of the population objectives 

and include the results in the Forest Plan as an amendment. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 58 

Monitoring Item: Fish Habitat

Monitoring Objective:

Assure that fish habitat objectives are met. 

Monitoring Questions:

Is the fish population changing in terms of numbers, species composition, or age structure? 

Threshold of Concern:

Monitoring questions 1 and 2: Any decline (over 3 years or more) of fish numbers or numbers of 

fish species. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Develop baseline data to determine changes in fish habitat capability based on standard Region 6 

method developed by Hankin and Reeves. 

Initially survey all Forest streams during a five year period. Approximately five percent of the 

stream miles will be resurveyed annually. These stream miles will be well distributed and should 

focus on the most sensitive habitat. 

Monitor all habitat improvement projects in the first, second, and fifth year following project 

completion to evaluate structural and functional success. 

Monitor at least 20 percent of the structures annually. Monitoring of structures will include the 

installation of photo points. 

Develop baseline stations for aquatic invertebrate sampling. Approximately 25 stations will be 

established. Half of the aquatic invertebrate sites will be monitored annually. 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness & Validation 

Results and Findings:

There are no detectable changes in fish numbers, species composition, or age structure. In general, 

populations appear healthy and vigorous in most systems. The Sprague River experiences degraded 

water quality during summer and early fall. Conditions become lethal or nearly so, for salmonid 

species during this time. Steps have been taken on Forest to improve those systems that contribute 

to the Sprague River. Unfortunately, many of the problems on the Sprague result from activities on 

private land. Salmonid populations are in decline on this system and rough fish populations have 

increased. 

On Forest, fishery population trends are static, with the notable exception of the Cherry Creek Bull 

Trout population. Species composition in that system is moving to favor introduced brook trout at 

the expense of native bull trout. Age structure is also poor for bull trout in both Three Mile Creek 

and Cherry Creek. Fecundity of brook trout is saturating the gene pool and recruitment to the bull 

trout population is in serious decline. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 59 

We are on the threshold of population viability, maybe beyond, for bull trout on Threemile Creek 

and Cherry Creek. Corrective action has been taken and additional actions and more comprehensive 

monitoring is planned for this spring/summer (1996). This is the most imperiled population of bull 

trout in the Klamath Province. Intensive investigations are on going. Habitat parameters will be 

evaluated and structure effectiveness will be monitored. 

Personnel from the Wineman National Forest served as key technical members on the Bull Trout 

Working Group. This is a multi-agency group with the stated goal of recovering bull trout 

populations in the Klamath Provence. Through the efforts of this group a recovery plan was 

published this month with specific plans for begining recovery of the species. This plan has been 

held up as a national model of an interagency effort to recover a species and preclude the need for 

listing under the Endangered Species Act. 

Forest-wide, Hankin-Reeves sampling will continue this summer. However, that methodology 

primarily reflects morphological conditions. Additional monitoring and permanent photo points and 

transects were placed last spring/summer These additional practices are intended to evaluate and 

monitor other members of the aquatic biotic community (e.g. molluscs, amphibians, and 

invertebrates). 

The Forest conducted 20 miles of physical stream survey in 1995. Data analysis is not complete but 

is in progress. Quantitative fish population information is not gathered in the surveys conducted. 

Structures (root wads, and complex structures) were placed in Lake of the Woods. Permanent 

monitoring points were established and will be evaluated this season. 

An intensive morphological, hydrologic, and biological survey of Threemile Creek will be 

completed this summer. The population appears to have suffered mortality or displacement due to 

flood actions this winter and spring. 

Aquatic invertebrate samples have been collected at numerous locations on the Forest. Analysis of 

all the samples has not occurred due to lack of funding (Note: funding became available in FY-96). 

A systematic sampling scheme has been developed and baseline stations will be established 

throughout the Forest this summer. There is growing concern regarding endemic mollusc 

populations. Initial surveys were conducted last summer and numerous (30-40) new, previously undescribed species were discovered on the small portion of the Forest that was inventoried. Inventory 

and monitoring procedures for mollusk species are being developed and the Aquatic Program 

Manager is serving on the Interagency Survey and Manage Team in that regard. 

Evaluation:

Establishment of baseline information is progressing at a satisfactory rate. More intensive surveys 

are needed for some stream reaches. Monitoring of fish habitat improvements is at a rate above the 

minimum standards. Aquatic invertebrate sampling is taking place, systematic methodology is being 

established this summer. Analysis of the samples is still not adequate. 

Recommended Action:

Many forest streams are at or near potential for fish production and will require no investment of 

funds for fish habitat improvement. Others, particularly those bearing TES species, will be 

prioritized and aquatic habitat improvement methodology will be employed. In all but the most 

urgent of needs, or when only minor actions that will not result in a irretrievable commitment of 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 60 

resources are needed, further habitat improvement will not be employed in fluvial systems until 

watershed analysis is complete. 

Stream survey must continue until all streams are completed and a Forest-wide baseline is 

established. Protocol and methodology for intermittent and ephemeral stream surveys was 

developed in FY 94. The process will be refined this season and intermittent stream inventory will 

continue until an adequate profile of the watershed is developed. 

Provide funding to analyze already collected invertebrate samples. Develop a system for the 

location and a schedule for collection of aquatic invertebrate samples. 

Though changes in stream miles, fish species present, etc. are apparent from the survey data 

compared to the information in the FEIS, no amendment or revision is recommended until all 

streams have been surveyed and a baseline established. 

Begin sampling for forest aquatic species described in the ROD on a systematic and priority of need 

basis. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 61 

Monitoring Item: Wildlife-Bald Eagle 

Monitoring Objective:

Assure that Recovery Plan objectives for bald eagle are being met. 

Monitoring Questions:

 Is the bald eagle population approaching recovery objectives? 

Are all known and identified potential nest sites protected in accordance with the Recovery Plan? 

Has a site plan for each nest site been written? 

Are nest sites producing young? 

Is the winter roost receiving use? 

Is management of bald eagle replacement habitat producing stand conditions that meet objectives for 

large trees? 

Is replacement area habitat receiving use by bald eagle? 

Threshold of Concern:

Monitoring questions 1 and 2: Active nest site is unoccupied 2 years in succession. If unoccupied 

for 2 years in succession determine the causes and correct the situation if possible. 

Monitoring question 2: Any site not protected. More than 10 percent sites with unfinished site plans 

two years after implementation. Monitoring question 1: More than a 10 percent decline of the bald 

eagle population in the Klamath Basin. 

Monitoring question 4: Decrease of winter roost use greater than 20 percent over previous 2 years 

average. 

Monitoring question 5: Silviculturally treated replacement areas not releasing or achieving growth 

rates as anticipated after five years implementation. 

Monitoring question 6: No use of replacement area within 10 years of implementation. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

 Continue Annual Interagency survey of nest sites in the Klamath Basin. 

Continue annual winter roost surveys. 

Field survey potential nest sites, resurvey at two-year intervals. 

Field survey replacement habitat, resurvey at five-year intervals. 

Survey treated replacement area growth rates at five-year intervals. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 62 

Monitoring Type:

Implementation, Effectiveness, & Validation 

Results and Findings:

KLAMATH RANGER DISTRICT

On the Klamath Ranger District there were twelve occupied territories in 1995 producing 18 

young. That equals 1.5 young per occupied territory. This exceeds the Recovery Plan objective 

of 1.0 fledged young per pair of adults. The success rate was 83% which exceeds the Recovery 

Plan objective of 65% per occupied site. Other Recovery Plan objectives, seem to be improving. 

All nest sites have been protected from project activity. 

CHILOQUIN RANGER DISTRICT

On Chiloquin Ranger District a total of 19 territories were occupied. Two territories (Agency 

Lake/Klamath Agency and Steiger Butte) included nests on private land. The active nests for 

both territories in 1995 were on private ownership; however, both territories were included in 

Chiloquin district results. 

Total of 17 individual nests were occupied on USFS, 2 nests were on private land (see above 

note on territory). 

Total young produced was 13 fledglings on USFS, 2 fledglings from private land nest(s). 

There were 1.46 young fledged per territory. Percent success rate per occupied territory was 

42%. 

The following nest sites were considered in management activities in FY95: 

Analysis Area Nest/Territory % Suitable 

Habitat

% of Habitat 

Monitored

% Meets 

Plan

Wocus Underburn Wocus Bay 100 100 100 

Bluehorse EA Military Crossing 100 

(13 % in BECA) 

100 100 

Yamsi Allotment 

EA 

Bull Pasture/ 

Williamson River 

60 

(12% in BECA) 

100 100 

Skellock/Deep 

Allotment EA 

Military Crossing 50-60 

(6% in BECA) 

100 100 

Applegate 

Allotment EA 

Wocus Bay 

Soloman Lake 

50 

(5% in BECA) 

100 100 

Eastside Thinning Dams Canyon 100 100 100 

There was no known damage to nest trees. Nest number 464 Soloman Lake has extensive 

badger activity at base of tree. Possibility of weakened root system. 

Eastside Thinning = 1845 acres - Reason for treatment: thin sapling and/or pole sized timber to 

encourage the growth of large trees in the stand. Project was done for silviculture as benefitting 

function department. Indirect effect will increase bald eagle replacement habitat in 100+ years. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 63 

Wocus Underburn = 589 acres - Reason for treatment: Underburn to reduce fuels. Natural fuels 

hazard reduction was the benefitting function department. Indirect effects will improve bald eagle 

nesting and roosting habitat. 

Total acres treated that will benefit bald eagle habitat = 2434. 

The Bluehorse Fire Ecology EA proposes to burn/treat 18,389 acres of suitable and potential 

replacement bald eagle habitat. Analysis for the EA was done in FY95, and acres were reported for 

analysis only. If the project is signed and implemented, treated acres will be included in FY96. 

CHEMULT RANGER DISTRICT

Number of occupied territories or nest sites (include also known unoccupied and previously known 

but not relocated in 1995) were two. 

Number of young produced per territory/site and percent success rate per occupied site were 1 young 

produced and 0 young produced or .5 young per occupied site which is below Recovery Plan 

objectives of 1.0 young per occupied site. 

Number of nest sites protected from project activities and percent project acres monitored/surveyed 

and percent of those meeting Forest Plan objectives is 100% for each. 

Number of nest trees damaged and other threats were none. 

Percent eagle habitat treated to improve conditions, type of treatments, and reason for treatment and 

cause of problem/condition were none. 

Evaluation:

Efforts are being made to keep management of known and potential nest sites in compliance with the 

recovery plan objectives. Additional nest site plans and monitoring are needed to ensure full 

recovery of the eagle. Thirty-two nest site plans are needed and thirteen have been completed (five 

for Klamath RD, two for Chemult RD, and six for Chiloquin RD). Finalization of eight of these 

thirteen plans has occurred and finalization of the remaining five plans is in progress. 

The intent of Forest Plan management requirements in eagle habitat is to provide habitat conditions 

suitable for bald eagle colonization. The monitoring plan developed in FY93 in affiliation with 

Oregon Eagle Foundation will help the Winema National Forest personnel determine if this is the 

case. 

To determine the effectiveness of bald eagle replacement habitat management on the Forest 

improved/additional monitoring needs to take place. 

Recommended Action:

Recovery of the bald eagle in the Klamath Basin has been successful in recent years, since 

implementation of the Pacific States Recovery Plan. Continued monitoring efforts are needed with 

special emphasis on effectiveness of management practices in bald eagle replacement habitat. 

Additional efforts are also needed in the development of bald eagle nest site plans (thirteen have 

been completed to date) to ensure all practical measures are taken to maintain existing nest habitat. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 64 

Monitoring Item: Spotted Owl

Monitoring Objective:

Assure that the Forest meets and maintains its share of habitat sufficient to maintain viable populations 

of spotted owl. 

Monitoring Questions:

Is designated spotted owl habitat occupied by a pair of reproductively successful spotted owls in any 

given year? 

How correct are the assumptions and outcomes of implementing standards and guidelines? 

 What is spotted owl population trend? 

Is potential habitat being surveyed? 

Threshold of Concern:

Any decline in the running five-year average of occupancy rate and numbers of pair from the previous 

five-year average. 

Any designated habitat area fails to produce fledged birds in the last 3 years. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

 Use methods detailed in R5/R6 Spotted Owl Inventory and Monitoring Handbook monitoring 50 

percent of designated habitat annually. 

Monitor 20 percent of habitat outside of designated habitat areas annually. 

Monitoring Type:

Implementation, Effectiveness, & Validation 

Results and Findings:

Now that the LSR's and CHU's are in place with management direction, the past shifts in owl 

management strategy should be less frequent. There will be some fine-tuning through the LSR 

assessments and watershed analysis to meet site specific needs. 

KLAMATH RANGER DISTRICT

Portions of all 3 LSRs (Late Successional Reserves) designated in the President's Forest Plan on the 

Klamath Ranger District were surveyed in 1995 for the northern spotted owl. Two of the LSRs were 

occupied by at least one reproductive pair of spotted owls in 1995. LSR RO228 was not technically 

occupied, but 2 pairs that once resided within the LSR have moved just outside the boundary into 

Mountain Lakes Wilderness Area. A total of 8 activity centers were located within LSR 227 and 3 

activity centers within LSR229 in 1995. Of these 11 activity centers, 4 were pairs that produced young. 

On the Klamath Ranger District, during 1995, approximately 32,000 acres of suitable spotted owl habitat 

were surveyed to survey protocol. An additional 9,000 acres (approximation) were surveyed not to 

survey protocol. This was accomplished through a variety of ways, including contract surveys, co-
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 65 

operative agreements with the BLM on a population density study area, and research studies by Frank 

Wagner of Oregon State University. A total of 24 activity centers were confirmed on the Klamath RD. 

A total of 7 pairs produced young. All 24 activity centers located in 1995 on Klamath RD have been 

protected from project activity by seasonal restrictions. Project acres, on the Klamath RD, have been 

surveyed/monitored at 100% level in 1995. 

Watersheds surveyed include Threemile, Sevenmile, Fourmile, Rock, Nannie, Switchback, and Cold 

Springs. 

CHILOQUIN RANGER DISTRICT

The Chiloquin LSR was not surveyed. The location and habitat type for the LSR is inappropriate, and 

does not meet the intent for any of the LSR, old-growth habitat species. An LSR assesment has not been 

funded for the district, and any amendment to the LSR/matrix complex is not feasible without an LSR 

assessment (per informal conversations with USFWS personnel). 

Suitable habitat surveyed to protocol in matrix land: 

Analysis Area Total 

Acres

Suitable 

Habitat Acres

Percent Suitable 

Habitat 

Surveyed

Percent Suitable 

Habitat Monitored

Dagwood EA 47,646 13,314 100 100 

Hill T.S. 282 282 100 100 

Total Acres 47,928 

One activity center confirmed (site 3995) - resident single status as defined by protocol standards. 

District biologists suggest that the resident single status may be inappropriate in this area. The activity 

center is within 1.5 miles of a nest site (number 3106). The area (Chiloquin Ridge) has fragmented, 

variable canopy closure and cover for spotted owls. Dispersal areas and travel corridors are likely larger 

than typical definitions of west-side habitat. The resident single detections were likely one of the owls 

from site 3106, although this was not confirmed. 

Spotted owl monitoring from 1990-1995 has shown seasonal movements of spotted owls up to 5.0 miles 

from the nest site, in a non-nesting year. This includes adult and subadult owls. A subadult owl was 

located and captured approx. 4.5 miles north from nest site 3106 in 1995. An owl was detected 

approximately 1.5 miles south of nest site 4346; a red/white/red striped band was seen on left leg, which 

was a color used since 1991 to band juvenile spotted owls. A juvenile spotted owl was banded with this 

color at nest site 4346 in summer of 1992. 

Banding -Three spotted owls were banded in 1995: 

● male received a solid yellow band on the left leg; a USFWS band, number 1387-73200, on the 

right leg. 

● male received a solid yellow band on the right leg; USFWS band, number 1387-73199, on the left 

leg. 

● subadult was banded in T.35S.,R.08E.,Sec.16. It was believed to be a male (based on weight = 

580 g.). A solid orange band on the left leg, and a USFWS band, number 1387-60832, on the right 

leg was used. 

CHEMULT RANGER DISTRICT
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 66 

Nest R231 had single resident owl #2245 and reproduction confirmed for owls #2246 with 2 young. 

R232 had pair detected, but occupancy unconfirmed. R233 had no responses. Matrix within .5 miles 

around LSR's also surveyed with no responses. 

15,561 acres were surveyed to protocol, none not to protocol. Contractors surveyed 10,893 acres and 

Forest Service personnel surveyed 4,668 acres. 

Two activity centers were confirmed and protected from project activities. Pair #2246 produced 2 

young. 

There were no projects in suitable habitat. 

Evaluation:

Spotted owl monitoring has been completed at a fairly high level for the past six years on the Klamath 

Ranger District. It is expected that the level of monitoring will decrease in the future due to the 

establishment of LSR's and the completion of baseline inventories for most of the district. The work 

being done by Frank Wagner for OSU will taper off as that project nears completion. Surveys on 

Chemult and Chiloquin continue as appropriate. Also, more effort will have to be spent on other survey 

and manage species in the future. 

Recommended Action:

Continue monitoring and population counts in accordance with regional direction. 

Reassess the location and habitat type for the Chiloquin Late Successional Reserve. Consider 

establishing the LSR in a more appropriate location, such as the Chiloquin Ridge area, and provide 

funding to evaluate and establish the LSR and to complete the LSR assessment. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 67 

Monitoring Item: Peregrine Falcon

Monitoring Objective:

Determine peregrine falcon use on the Winema N.F., assure that areas that are found to be used by 

peregrine falcon are maintained and protected. 

Monitoring Questions:

Are surveys being conducted to locate nest and roost sites? 

Threshold of Concern:

If found, note any reduction in use by peregrine falcon. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

 Survey every potential peregrine nesting habitat every two years to determine and evaluate use. 

Investigate specific reports of peregrine falcon. 

Co-operate with any Crater Lake National Park studies that may determine peregrine feeding areas. 

Monitoring Type:

Implementation 

Results and Findings:

Some surveys have been completed in association with projects developed on the three Ranger 

Districts. Potential habitat exists on the Chiloquin and Klamath Ranger Districts. 

CHILOQUIN DISTRICT 

Potential habitat has not been identified on Chiloquin for 1995 management activities. Biological 

evaluations made note of habitat use by nesting prairie falcons. One new prairie falcon nest was 

located, and one nest was monitored during planting near the nest. Total management activity acres 

in 1995 were approximately 233,460 acres all of which were pre-field reviewed for suitable habitat. 

A certain percentage was also ground-truthed for suitability. Peregrine falcon surveys were not 

conducted using a protocol. 

CHEMULT DISTRICT

Number of acres potential habitat and number of these acres surveyed for peregrine and survey 

results: nothing for 1995. 

Percent project acres surveyed/monitored in 1995 and percent protected/ meeting Forest Plan 

objectives: nothing for 1995. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 68 

KLAMATH DISTRICT

No surveys completed in 1995. 

Evaluation:

Sufficient numbers of survey results have not been reported to conduct a meaningful evaluation at 

this time. 

Recommended Action:

Survey results on the Winema Survey Form are needed to evaluate the potential for peregrine 

falcons on the Forest. 

Survey potential areas every two years. Pelican Butte area has been indicated as an area where 

peregrine have been seen. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 69 

Monitoring Item: Wildlife-Lost River and Shortnosed Suckers 

Monitoring Objective:

 To identify Lost River and shortnosed sucker habitat on the Forest and to assure habitat is 

maintained or improved. 

Monitoring Questions:

What are the habitat requirements for suckers on the Forest? 

Threshold of Concern:

Any detrimental impact to habitat. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Participate in the cooperative sucker study currently underway. 

Survey and document habitat use on the Forest. 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness & Validation 

Results and Findings:

Historic use areas in the Klamath Basin, including the Winema National Forest, have been 

delineated on maps for future study. A cooperative study, in conjunction with BOR, Klamath Tribe, 

and Fremont NF, is underway to assess genetic differentiation between members of the Lost River 

and shortnosed suckers. 

Evaluation:

Habitat requirements for the Lost River and shortnosed Suckers have been defined in the report 

entitled Life History and Status of Catostomids in Upper Klamath Lake, Oregon, a cooperative study 

(1990). The areas of historic use need further investigation and habitat use and management need to 

be monitored. 

Recommended Action:

As indicated, additional investigation and monitoring is needed before conclusion about habitat 

protection and species recovery can be made. We have worked closely with US Fish & Wildlife 

Service in the development of recommendations for proposed critical habitat for both sucker species. 

Consultation under section 7 of the Endangered Species Act has been stepped up. Open and 

reciprocal dialog has been developed regarding a wide array of Forest activities that may effect 

sucker habitat or populations. 

A cooperative project was developed between US Fish & Wildlife Service's Ecosystem Restoration 

Office, Natural Resource Conservation Service, private landowners, and the Winema National Forest 

to protect and enhance a key stream system within the proposed critical habitat for both Lost River 

and shrot nose suckers. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 70 

Monitoring Item: Wildlife-Primary Cavity Excavators

Monitoring Objective:

Assure that the number, size, and distribution of old growth habitat, green trees, and snags meet 

the habitat capability objective of 40 percent or greater potential population. 

Monitoring Questions:

Are snags and replacement trees being left in the right numbers, sizes, and distribution on lands 

available for timber removal? 

Threshold of Concern:

More than 10 percent of the surveyed areas have less than 90 percent of the described trees and 

snags. 

More than 10 percent decrease in snag numbers shown in consecutive forest-wide timber 

inventories (done every 10 years). 

Cavities are not being created to support a viable population of secondary cavity users. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Examine habitat on 20 percent of timber sales within one year of sale closure per district 

annually. 

Evaluate timber inventory plot data each ten year period. 

Establish and measure transects to measure longevity of snags and woody material in areas 

where fuelwood is gathered. The monitoring interval is every two years. 

Monitoring Type:

Implementation 

Results and Findings:

Interim Eastside Screens were implemented in the Region for areas outside of the range of the 

northern spotted owl. These screens require 100% snag levels. EAs contain these screens as 

standards and guidelines. The screens are new enough that there has been no opportunity for 

post-sale compliance monitoring. 

Snags have been created to increase snags to levels required by Forest Plan Standards and 

Guidelines. Following is a table summarizing snag creation by year. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 71 

Fiscal Year Snags Created

1990 1,154 

1991 2,612 

1992 48 

1993 0 

1994 514 

1995 1,157 

The Klamath District surveyed the Nannie-Rock analysis area for snags using informal methods 

(non-protocol survey). Snag density is very high in this area, over 100% of potential population 

requirements. OSHA is uncomfortable leaving snags in proposed helicopter harvest units, so snag 

clumps will need protection in this area. 

The Chiloquin District implemented the first stage of a topping project that will top 350 standing 

snags. The District also developed a long-term snag and dead and down transect methodology, and 

field tested the procedure on a potential timber sale area - no results were reported. 

Evaluation:

Due to low level of funding, funds were not allocated for woodpecker use. 

Districts are evaluating cavity excavator habitat needs on a project level. 

Recommended Action:

Emphasize post-project monitoring for snag levels. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 72 

Monitoring Item: Wildlife - Other

 Pileated Woodpecker

Northern Three-Toed Woodpecker

 Goshawk

 Pine Marten

Monitoring Objective:

Assure that habitat that will meet or exceed the Forest share of that needed to meet viable 

populations of pileated woodpecker is provided and maintained. 

Monitoring Questions:

 Are the number of areas identified in the plan being maintained? 

Are the areas meeting the definition of suitable habitat as specified in the Forest plan? 

Threshold of Concern:

 Habitat suitability is less than minimum standards. 

Decline of more than 15 percent is detected. 

Habitat area numbers and distribution less than minimum requirements. 

Decline of more than 20 percent in occupancy or reproduction success (nest failure). 

More than 25 percent difference in size requirements, distribution requirements, or habitat 

definition criteria between current pileated research and habitat as specified in the plan. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Monitoring question 1 and 2: Examine 50 or 25 percent of the habitat areas annually (depending 

on the year) to sample for maintenance of habitat effectiveness for pileated woodpeckers 

(including both the 300 acres of designated old growth habitat and the 300 acres of foraging 

habitat). Establish permanent plots for sampling habitat capability; use Habitat Suitability Index 

Model (Schroeder 1982) or similar credible suitability index. A potential sampling scheme may 

consist of randomly selecting four permanent transects (or equivalent plots) per habitat area. At 

500 foot intervals along each transect characterize habitat for pileated woodpeckers. Along the 

transect route, the observer will also note feeding cavities, nest/roost cavities, and actual 

sightings. Monitoring of spotted owl areas will include incidental gathering of pileated data 

since SOHAs also qualify as pileated woodpecker habitat. Pileated areas will be sampled for 

pine marten habitat data. Record sightings and sign of other wildlife species noticed along the 

transects. Examine sites where natural occurrences such as windthrow or fire may have affected 

the sites. Examine affected habitat areas within a year after the event. Examine 10 percent of 

habitat areas annually to sample for occupancy and productivity of pileated woodpecker. Use 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 73 

tape recorded territorial calls and drummings to elicit responses for pileated woodpeckers. 

Search areas for nests to determine productivity (see Mellen 1987 for methods). 

Monitoring Type:

Implementation and Effectiveness. 

Results and Findings:

The Klamath District monitored for goshawks in a co-operative study with the BLM. About 14,000 

acres of potential goshawk habitat were inventoried. Chiloquin District surveyed 4,040 acres for 

goshawk to protocol in FY95. Several new goshawk nests were found on Klamath District, two 

new nests were found on Chiloquin District. Several other raptor nests were found in surveys. 

Habitat suitability indices were not used in surveys of habitat. 

Protocol methods (snag survey protocols, etc.) were used. 

In 1992, the Forest undertook GIS review of the size and spacing of MR units. The following table 

indicates the number of MR units and total acreages. 

MR species in GIS No. Units* in Plan No. 

Units

Difference

Pileated 33 28 + 5 

Marten 78 51 + 27 

Three-toed 245 215 + 30 

Goshawk 214 87 +127 

Unit size was not less than that specified in the Forest Plan for a specific species, however, some 

units are larger than the minimum size specified. Unit spacing was not greater than that specified in 

the Forest Plan for a species, however, some units are closer together than the maximum distance 

specified in the Forest Plan. 

On Chemult District three black-backed woodpecker patches were destroyed by wind, three patches 

were moved to a better site. On Chiloquin District eighty acres of MA7 were identified to be moved 

to more appropriate location targeting goshawk and pileated woodpecker. Approximately 400 acres 

were removed from MA7 (2 management areas) due to the Northwest Forest Plan. All MA7 sites 

were dropped and replaced by 60,860 acres of LSR by the Northwest Forest Plan. 

Five female marten produced young on approximately 5,712 acres. One hundred fifty nine rest sites 

and 15 maternal dens were found during the marten study. 

Evaluation:

Suitability surveys are occurring on part of the Forest. Habitat suitability indices are not being 

used to rate suitability. Insufficient monitoring does not allow for a forest-wide evaluation. 

Recommended Action:

Continue monitoring for Forest Plan compliance. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 74 

Monitoring Item: Sensitive Species (other than previously listed)

Monitoring Objective:

 Assure that sufficient habitat is maintained or enhanced on the Forest for plants, birds, mammals, 

fish, reptiles and amphibians, and invertebrates listed for the Forest on the Regional Forester's 

Sensitive Species List so that management will prevent the sensitive species from becoming 

candidate species for the Federal Threatened and Endangered Species List. 

Monitoring Questions:

Are sensitive animal and plant species density and distribution being maintained or increased on the 

Forest? 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

 Annual surveys of known sensitive species locations for two consecutive years out of every five 

years. 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness & Validation 

Results and Findings:

Individual site locations of sensitive plant and animal species are protected and/or mitigation 

measures are taken to prevent adverse impacts due to management activities on all Forest project 

activities. 

Chemult Ranger District

1) Number of acres surveyed/monitored: birds (goshawk, crane/loons) - 47,572 + 600 = 48,172 

acres, plants - 26,277 acres, and no mammals or amphibian acres surveyed. 

Percent project acres surveyed/monitored in 1995: 100% of potential habitat was surveyed for birds 

and plants. The following percentage is what was suitable to survey within projects: birds - 78%, 

plants - 2.2% 

Percent project acres protected/meeting Forest Plan objectives. The information is provided by 

species group (ie. plants, amphibians, mammals, birds). For birds - 100% and for plants - 100%. 

2) Percent sensitive species site locations protected from activities by species group. Percent total 

potential and known habitat protected from activities, by species group is 100% 

3) Number of known crane nest sites and number protected from activities is none. 

4) Summary of monitoring studies and status of and/or summary of completed Conservation 

Strategies are none. 

5) Number of BE's completed by species group are 12 (6 animals and 6 plants). 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 75 

Chiloquin Ranger District

Wildlife:

1) Total acres surveyed for 1995 management activities = 233,460. The number reflects analysis 

area acres. Biological evaluations were prepared for the following proposed management 

actions: 

Analysis Name Acres Comments

Copwood 7,718 Field work completed for BE. EA not signed. 

Ranchhouse 13,393 Field work began for BE prep in 1995. EA 

 not signed. 

Quick Fire Salvage Sale 1,013 Harvested FY95 & FY96 

Dorf Timber Sale 7,018 EA signed - action not implemented 

Yamsi Allotment Permit Re-Issuance 

EA 

54,363 Permit issued - EA not signed 

Skellock/Deep Allotment 

Re-Issuance EA 

39,995 Permit issued - EA not signed 

Applegate Allotment 

Permit Re-Issuance EA 

86233 Permit issued - EA not signed 

Bluehorse Fire Ecology EA 18389 Field work completed for BE. EA not signed. 

FY95 Thinning Program 4632 

Taylor Salvage Timber Sale 52 

Wocus Underburn 589 Units burned FY95 & FY96 

Misc. BE's for Categorical 

Exclusions, other departmental 

projects 

25 

Spring Creek Trail EA 40 EA not signed - updates to BE in 1995 

Total Acres 233,460

2) There are no identified terrestrial wildlife sensitive species sites on the district. All identified 

potential suitable habitat for sensitive species is protected with management activity buffers. 

3) There are no known sandhill crane nests on the district. Adjacent private land has reported 

nesting cranes, as has the Klamath Marsh National Wildlife Refuge. Perennial wet meadows and 

marsh-like areas are protected from management activities. 

4) There are no monitoring studies or conservation strategies in progress for terrestrial wildlife 

species. 

5) Total number of biological evaluations prepared in FY95 = 23. Number includes BEs for 

Categorical Exclusions, requests from other departments through specialist work orders, and EA 

analysis. Total number also includes aquatic species reports. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 76 

Plants

1) Number of acres surveyed/monitored: 

88,488 acres contract 

14,289 acres FAC 

102,777 acres total 

Percent project acres surveyed/monitored in 1995: 99% of the acres surveyed were project 

acres. 558 acres out of 102,777 were not project acres. 

Percent protected/meeting Forest Plan objectives: 7.5% of the acres surveyed met forest 

plan objectives by having a BE written in fiscal year 1995 for the surveys. Eventually all but 

558 acres will meet forest plan objectives, by having a BE written for the surveyed areas. 

558 acres were surveyed for reasons not associated with a project, such as solely for the 

purpose of determining the existence of a specific plant species. 

2) Percent sensitive species site locations protected from activities by species group: 

Species No. sites Total Acres % Protected Acres % Protected Sites

CALOL 86 1855.37 98 94 

ALCA 4 99 75 

ASPE 2 100 100 

CACH 0 - - 

CIBU 0 - - 

ERPR 1 100 100 

MEST 6 100 100 

MIPY 35 26 85 86 

MITR 11 23 99 73 

PEGL 2 100 100 

PEER 0 - - 

PEHO 0 - - 

ROCO 5 0 0 

SINU 52 86 96 89 

THBR 0 - - 

Of 204 total sensitive plant populations, 25 sites or 88% are protected from activities. 

Percent total potential and known habitat protected from activities: of 6966.79 acres in 

potential or known sensitive plant habitat, 6,817 acres or 98% are protected from activities. 

Refer to table above for individual species breakdown. 

4) Summary of monitoring studies and status of and/or summary of completed Conservation 

Strategies: 

A Conservation Strategy was completed for Calochortus longebarbatus var. longebarbatus. 

A draft of the Conservation Strategy for Rorippa columbiae was issued for review by ODA, 

as part of a CCS project, for the Rorippa columbiae on the Chiloquin District. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 77 

A monitoring study on Calochortus longebarbatus, begun in 1993, was continued in 

1995. Plots on 5 sites were taken and number of vegetative and flowering stems recorded 

on each plot. Grazed and ungrazed plots were compared and no significant difference 

was found between the two treatments. 

5) Number of BE's completed: 

29 BE's were completed for sensitive plants. 

Note: 

ALCA = Allium campanulatum

ASPE = Astragalus peckii

CACH = Castilleja chromata

CALOL= Calochortus longebarbatus var. longebarbatus

CIBU = Cicuta bulbifera

ERPR = Eriogonum prociduum

MEST = Melica stricta

MIPY = Mimulus pygmaeus

MITR = Mimulus tricolor

PEGL = Perideridium erthrorhiza

PEHO = Perideridium howellii

ROCO = Rorippa columbiae 

SINUI= Silene nuda var. insectivora

THBT = Thelypodium brachycarpum

 

Klamath Ranger District

In 1995 on the Klamath RD, 2,500 project acres were surveyed for sensitive plants. An 

additional 4,000 acres were surveyed in the Sky Lakes Wilderness and Brown Mountain Semiprimitive Recreation area. Sensitive plant BE's were completed for 6 projects and provided 

100% compliance with the Forest Plan. Sensitive plants were located in 2 of the project areas 

addressed by BE's in 1995. Mitigation measures were not needed to protect sensitive plant 

species in those project areas. Neither of the projects were implemented in 1995. None of the 

past projects requiring sensitive plant mitigation measures were implemented in 1995, therefore 

monitoring for compliance was not completed. 

Monitoring of Collomia mazama demographic plots and Silene nuda ssp. insectivora

experimental burn plots continued in 1995. 

A draft conservation strategy for Collomia mazama is currently in the review stage. A draft 

strategy for Asarum wagneri will be completed in spring, 1996. A challenge costshare 

agreement to develop a conservation strategy for Perideridia erythrorhiza was initiated with 

Oregon Dept. of Agriculture in 1995. The project will include a study of the taxonomy and 

genetics of westside and eastside populations. 

A radio-telemetry study on yellow rails was initiated in 1995 and will continue into 1996. 

Results of this study will demonstrate habitat use (movements/home range) and number of 

calling males. Additionally, results will provide information on habitat variables and nesting 

activities/characterization. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 78 

Evaluation:

Long-term trend studies are needed to determine if plant and animal species density and 

distribution are being maintained or increased on the Forest. 

On Chiloquin Ranger District, populations of sensitive plants (status and distribution) appear to 

be stable. On Chemult Ranger District, data is insufficient to determine population trends for 

sensitive plants. In all cases, additional information is needed and must be assessed over a five 

to ten year time-frame to determine long-term sensitive species population distribution and status 

trends. 

Monitoring studies on Collomia mazama and Asarum wagneri, on Klamath Ranger District, will 

provide some data regarding trend for these species. An attempt to determine sensitive species 

trends at this point would be based solely on observation and would be completely subjective. 

Recommended Action:

Reporting of survey results on the Winema Survey Forms, R6 Forms, and Oregon Natural 

Heritage Program (ONHP) Sighting Forms and entry of these data into BOTSIS, WILDOBS, 

and GIS are needed to evaluate this question. 

Continue monitoring studies in progress on Collomia mazama and Asarum wagneri (Klamath); 

Bopu (Chemult); Calochortus longebarbatus longebarbatus (Chiloquin); and radio-telemetry 

tracking study on yellow rail (Klamath). These studies will assist in evaluating trends for these 

species. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 79 

Monitoring Item: Plant and Animal Diversity

Monitoring Objective:

 Assure that all native and desirable introduced or historic plant and animal species and 

communities, and all seral stages of terrestrial, aquatic, and edaphic plant associations are 

provided in a distribution and abundance to assure species diversity and viability. 

Monitoring Questions:

What is the present distribution and proportion of seral stages by plant association? 

a. How do they compare to past distributions? 

b. What distribution and proportion is expected in the future? 

c. What are the trends? 

 What are the trends in overall species diversity on the Forest? 

a. Are there trends in species richness? 

b. Are there relationships to management practices and direction? 

c. Are there relationships with natural processes or events? 

Threshold of Concern:

Any decrease in the number of plant communities or animal species is a matter of concern. 

Thresholds and requirements of individual species (such as fish, woodpeckers, spotted owl) have 

been established and will be monitored. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Use the resource inventory to determine plant association and seral stage and assess the 

presence/absence of selected common wildlife species. 

Continue to complete Winema TES Survey forms and BOTSIS, use "RESURV", stake tree plots, 

stand exams, silvicultural visits, unit exams, and ecoplots to map plant associations and existing 

seral stages. These exams are ongoing and used to update data bases. With the installation of 

GIS the process will be streamlined and can be efficiently used to display the distribution of seral 

stages. Sensitive wildlife and plant survey results will be used to evaluate population abundance 

and trends in density. 

Information combined from the above sources on species abundance and distribution will be used 

to evaluate the trends in species richness and distribution. 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness & Validation 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 80 

Results and Findings:

Timber harvest and commercial thinning has not occurred as projected in the FEIS. 

A satellite imagery inventory which provides tree species composition, stand structure, and nontree vegetation was completed and entered into GIS in 1994. Timber survey information from 

1953 has been entered into GIS. A comparison of the information requires the development of a 

crosswalk between the two years. This is in progress. 

The Forest participated in a co-operative bat habitat survey in 1994. This resulted in confirming 

the presence of several bats and in the location of high probability bat habitat. Also, as a result of 

the survey, a small cave was located along the Sycan River. A bat monitoring and survey project 

is planned for FY96, as a continuation of this study. 

A fire history study is underway in the Cherry Creek RNA on Klamath RD. This study will help 

us understand the role of fire and possible effects on changes in species richness and diversity, in 

that area. 

Amphibian studies occurred in 1994 and will continue through 1996. The information gathered 

will show species locations and provide habitat descriptions on the Winema NF. 

CHILOQUIN RANGER DISTRICT

 

 Monitoring studies and status of and/or summary of completed Conservation Strategies

A Conservation Strategy was completed for Calochortus longebarbatus var. 

longebarbatus. 

A draft of the Conservation Strategy for Rorippa columbiae was completed in cooperation 

with ODA as part of a CCS project. 

A monitoring study on Calochortus longebarbatus, begun in 1993, was continued in 1995. 

Plots on 5 sites were taken and number of vegetative and flowering stems recorded on 

each plot. Grazed and ungrazed plots were compared and no significant difference was 

found between the two treatments. Monitoring will occur in FY96. 

An establishment record for Blue Jay RNA was initiated. Completion is expected in 1996. 

Evaluation:

As the trend for reduced harvest and decreased commercial thinning continues, the acres of early 

successional stages in forested types will decrease. As uneven-aged management is 

implemented habitat edge will decrease. As edge and early successional stages in the forested 

habitat types decreases so will the populations of species that are dependent upon early 

successional stages and upon edge. However, represented mid- and late successional stage 

forests should increase as will species associated with those stages. This should be monitored. 

Plant associations and plant and animal associated species are recorded on Forest TES survey 

forms and entered into a BOTSIS database and GIS. The WILDOBS database is being utilized to 

document animal occurrence and habitat data. These data will assist in the evaluation of longterm trends in plant and animal distribution and diversity. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 81 

Recommended Action:

The cave on the Sycan River is located within the Wild & Scenic River corridor, so further 

protection will not be necessary. 

Continue documentation of survey results for animal and plant surveys on TES survey forms for 

entry into databases and GIS. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 82 

 

Monitoring Item: Old Growth

Monitoring Objective:

Assure that the old growth reserved as old growth meets Forest Plan objectives. 

Monitoring Questions:

How much old growth remains (in case preserved old growth is destroyed)? 

Threshold of Concern:

 More that 10 percent difference between assumed acreage and actual acreage at the end of five 

years. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Field inventory to determine baseline acres of ecologically significant old growth on the Forest 

by the end of the second year of implementation. 

Annually determine old-growth acres remaining in noted Management Areas. 

Field review old-growth retention practices every three years. 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness 

Results and Findings:

In 1990 the Forest completed a survey of old growth to be selected for additional needs as 

determined by the ROD. This was not an inventory as such and stands surveyed for potential 

selection did not necessarily meet the Forest Plan definition (mature one or two-storied stands), 

the R6 definition (10 large trees per acre, etc.), or Hopkin's draft definitions. Lodgepole was not 

surveyed and has, to date, not been inventoried. Acreages of 24,400 acres of ponderosa pine and 

pine associated working groups that approximate Hopkin's draft definitions were reserved 

through Amendment 3 to the Forest Plan for purposes other than for MR species. 

All old growth MR sites on Klamath Ranger District were dropped when the President's Forest 

Plan was adopted. They were replaced by 60,860 acres of LSR. 

Most watersheds on the Klamath Ranger District exceed 15% old growth, however Spencer 

Creek is close to the minimum. 

Winds on the Chemult District blew down several stands reserved for old growth. This is 

addressed more thoroughly in wildlife monitoring. 

Evaluation:

No evaluation can be made. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 83 

Recommended Action:

Develop attribute-based stand characteristic data base from which any definition of "old growth" 

can be extracted rather than relying on surveys to find stands that meet a particular definition. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 84 

Monitoring Item: Range Vegetation

Monitoring Objective:

 Assure that range condition is in an upward trend in all allotments and particularly in riparian areas. 

Monitoring Questions:

Is range vegetation condition being maintained or improved in stable or upward trend? 

Threshold of Concern:

Monitoring question 1 and 2: Greater than ten percent of any allotment area outside riparian areas 

exhibits downward trend of site integrity or forage quality for more than two consecutive years. 

Monitoring question 3: Any riparian area shows downward trend for more than two consecutive 

years. 

Monitoring question 1, 2 and 3: Range vegetation utilization is 10 percent or greater than that which 

is authorized for more than two consecutive years. Monitoring question 4: Area of noxious weed 

infestation is increasing at rate of greater than 5 percent in five years. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Reestablish and establish permanent condition and trend transects in key areas (particularly riparian 

areas) of all allotments; read one-third of the transects on each allotment annually. 

Establish forage production and utilization studies; monitor annually. Field review Oregon 

Department of Agriculture and Klamath County acre estimates of noxious weed infestation annually. 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness 

Results and Findings:

Overall

Of the 263,953 acres in allotments (the difference in acres from 1994 attributable to GIS changes 

and exclusions in some allotments), 24,152 acres were monitored. Of those monitored, 24,052 

acres were at or moving toward Forest Plan Objectives (FPO), and 100 acres were not meeting 

FPO. 

Of the riparian areas within allotments (41,542 acres, included in the overall totals above), 8, 497 

were monitored and of those acres monitored, 100 acres are not meeting or moving toward FPO. 

Riparian areas identified as not moving towards FPO in Antelope Allotment in 1994 were fenced 

but fencing was not effective. The fence was upgraded in the fall of 1995 (FY96). 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 85 

YEAR ACRES 

MONITORE

D

ACRES NOT 

MEETING FPO

1993 239,511 21,900 

1994 265,656 2,176 

1995 273,958 100 

Forage production was excellent across most of the Forest because it was a wet year. Livestock 

turnout was delayed on many allotments because of wet conditions. 

With the fifth year of the Forest Plan completed, no AMPs have been completed. Range analysis 

data has been completed for five allotments. No AMP development is in progress. 

Following is a summary of budget expenditures for the range program on the Winema National 

Forest in 1994 dollars: 

RANGE PROGRAM - BUDGET EXPENDITURES

(Thousands of 1994 Dollars) 

 

YEAR DN1/DL1 DN22/DL22 DN23 TOTAL

1991 96.3 5.6 0.6 102.3 

1992 43.1 3.4 3.9 50.4 

1993 313.6 4.7 2.1 320.4 

1994 187.8 1.9 0.0 189.7 

1995 256.4 0.0 0.0 256.4 

Forest Plan 

Projection 331.4 46.0 30.1 407.5 

 

Note: Numbers do not include ET113, DN24, KV, or Ecosystem Restoration Office (ERO) 

funds. DN22/DL22 and DN23/DL23 do include Range Betterment Funds. 

The average budget of the five years from 1991 through 1995 was 45% of that projected as 

needed by the Forest Plan. This is far outside the 20% variation threshold. The largest budget, 

1993, was 79% of the Forest Plan projection which is still outside the threshold. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 86 

Chemult District

1995 Utilization Report

Antelope Allotment

 

LOCATION PERCENT UTILIZATION 

1. North Johnson Meadow 11% 

2. South Johnson Meadow 9% 

3. Parker Meadow 94% 

4. Whilshire 10% 

5. Sproats 22% 

6. Cannon Well 28% 

7. Dry Meadow (estimate) 30% 

8. Riders Camp (estimate) 85-90% 

UTILIZATION SUMMARY CHART

Percent Utilization 

KEY AREA 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995

Cannon Well 90 63 28 

Crooked Meadow 51.8 75.4 76 37 51 10 est 

Dry Meadow 85.6 60 30 est 

Jack Creek Upper 41.1 81.4 79 65 52 60 est 

Jack Creek Jamison 68.7 75 

Johnson Meadow North 38.2 71 79 12 11 

Johnson Meadow South 43.6 73 74 6 6.5 9 

Parker Meadow 67 50 94 

Pumice Meadow 87.2 90 30 est 

Riders camp 81.7 60 85 est 

Riparian Off 8829 86.6 

Sellers Marsh 54.6 72.4 

Sproats Meadow 78.7 90 81 27 14.5 22 

Sproats Meadow Lower 43 

Stimpson Meadow 11.5 10 est 

Squirrel Camp 44.4 54 73 5 26 5 

Wilshire 68.4 86.2 61.4 33 33 10 

Chiloquin District

On September 5, 1995 a team consisting of Bob Castaneda, Kent Russell, Charlie Hicks, Ken 

Woodman, and Richard Cleveland looked at forage utilization and range administration on the 

Dam's/Switchback and East Chiloquin Ridge Allotments on the Chiloquin District. "Permit 

administration was excellent and forage utilization was light to moderate overall, well below 

forest plan levels. There were two localized areas of heavier use, but were not a problem. Looked 

at mitigation projects. One in upper Rock Creek was questioned as to need." 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 87 

Klamath District

The 1995 grazing season was atypical for Fourmile Spring and Jack Spring Allotments. 

Utilization distribution within both allotments was significantly different than what could be 

expected under a more normal grazing regime. Grazing in the Fourmile Spring Allotment was 

atypical due to fence construction, change in water sites, and an unexpected change in season of 

use. Within the Jack Spring Allotment, grazing was limited to a two week period in October. 

In the Fourmile Spring Allotment five permanent photo plots were established and photos taken 

before turn-on and within one week of livestock removal. Utilization levels did not exceed 40% 

for herbaceous material and 30% for woody plant species. Vegetation transects were not 

established in 1995 because of the atypical grazing regime. All permanent fences have been 

constructed and a new watering site was identified. 

In the Jack Springs Allotment utilization levels did not exceed 40% for herbaceous material and 

30% for woody plant material. 

No unauthorized livestock use was observed to occur on either allotment. 

Noxious Weeds

Funding was insufficent to implement the Noxious Weed Treatment Environmental Assessment 

that was completed in 1993. The Forest manually treated 18,500 acres of noxious weeds in FY95 

using predominately CWKV funds to treat bull thistle, canada thistle, and musk thistle in the Lone 

Pine Fire area. A few acres of dalmatian toadflax, dyers woad, and spotted knapweed were also 

manually treated on both the Chiloquin and Klamath Districts. 

GIS input was not implemented in 1995, though the paper atlas and database were updated. 

Dalmation toadflax was identified on the Chemult Ranger District, purple loosestrife was detected 

south of Klamath Falls, and yellow starthistle was detected on the Forest above Hagelstein Park. 

Site monitoring, measuring extent and density of infestation, was conducted on an area infested 

by spotted knapweed north of the town of Chiloquin. The area of infestation is .26 acres. The 

highest density was .25 plants/sq. ft. The average density across the site was .14 plants/sq. ft. 

Evaluation:

Review results indicate that, except for a couple of sites, on-the-ground administration is 

excellent and that, generally, range condition is improving. 

Range forage condition trends are within the threshold of concern for both uplands and riparian 

areas. 

Utilization on uplands is acceptable across the Forest. Utilization in some riparian areas (100 

acres) was unacceptable. Corrective measures were planned for FY96 for certain key riparian 

areas that have been outside of standards including fencing for some, and more intense 

administration and follow-up monitoring for others. Fencing of areas identified in the FY94 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 88 

Monitoring Report occurred but was not successful, particularly at Rider Camp. An 

administrative decision to heavily graze the Ray Ranch (Hog Creek) portion of the Dice Crane 

Allotment resulted in unacceptable impacts to the riparian area. Unauthorized use occurred on 

several areas and was handled administratively. 

The Forest is no longer capable of completing all AMP revision/updates within the decade. The 

Forest is significantly out of compliance with Range Objective on page 4-12 of the Forest Plan 

which states "Revise, update, and implement all allotment management plans to meet Forest Plan 

objectives." Budgets below the threshold have caused postponement of AMP development to the 

point that revisions/updates of all AMPs is no longer feasible within the planning period. Costs 

have increased since 1990 due to PETS species survey and consultation and cultural resources 

survey requirements. A revised schedule that assumes adequate funding follows. 

Allotment Management Planning

Revised Schedule

ALLOTMENT RANGER

DISTRICT

YEAR TO 

COMPLETE

RATIONALE 

FOR SCHEDULE

Antelope Chemult 1996 Data Collected 

Bear Chemult 2000 Vacant 

Three Creeks Chemult 2000 Vacant 

Jack Creek Chemult 1997 

Applegate Chiloquin 1998 

Dice-Crane Chiloquin 1999 

Deep Creek Chiloquin 1997 Data Collected 

Skellock Chiloquin 1997 Data Collected 

Yamsi Chiloquin 1996 Data Collected 

Sycan Chiloquin 2000 Data Collected 

Coyote-Bucket Chiloquin 2002 Vacant 

Long Prairie Chiloquin 2000 Vacant 

E. Chiloquin ridge Chiloquin 1999 

Dam's Meadow/Switchback Chiloquin 1998 

No Name Chiloquin 2001 Vacant 

Buck Klamath 1998 

Indian Klamath 1998 

Fourmile Spring Klamath 1996 Data Collected 

Jack Spring Klamath 1997 Data Collected 

Recommended Action:

Continue range analysis and AMP development within budget limitations. 

Follow up on the fencing project(s) to assure that they will achieve objectives. 

Rest the Ray Ranch (Hog Creek) portion of the Dice Crane Allotment for a period of time to 

allow riparian vegetation recovery. 

 Continue to update the noxious weed site and treatment database. 

Continue to monitor known sites of priority weeds to determine changes in distribution.
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 89 

 

Monitoring Item: Timberland Suitability 

Monitoring Objective:

Validate and increase the resolution of the timberland suitability assessment for the Forest. 

Determine if lands identified as unsuitable for timber production have become suitable (36 CFR 

219.12(k)(5)(ii)). 

Ensure that timber harvest is not occurring on unsuitable lands to meet the allowable sale 

quantity. 

Monitoring Questions:

Is the timberland suitability assessment correct for all forested acres? 

Threshold of Concern:

Any timber harvest occurring on unsuitable timberland unless the harvest is necessary to meet 

some other resource objective. 

The suitable land base changes more than 30,000 acres. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Timberland suitability will be reviewed and updated as needed as a part of project level planning. 

All changes in timberland suitability will be documented and coordinated with S.O. specialists. 

The accumulative changes can be summarized yearly. 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness & Validation 

Results and Findings:

There was no change in timber land suitability acreages during FY 1995. 

Evaluation:

This summary of the current timberland suitability for the Winema National Forest is based upon 

the layers we have currently completed in the Geographic Information System (GIS). This 

summary relies heavily on the Vegetative Plant Community layer mapping. The new Vegetation 

Inventory was not available to make this summary and this new vegetation inventory will 

definitely give us better information for making the stratifications between forested and nonforested lands. 

Completion of the President's Forest plan changed the suitability layer. The GIS analysis of the 

changes has been completed. Under current direction there are 725,523 acres of suitable 

timberlands on the Winema National Forest. This is an increase of about 5000 acres over the 

original Forest Plan acres. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 90 

Recommended Action:

The increase in suitable acres is not great relative to the total and is not likely to change ASQ. The 

increase in acres will also be offset by restrictions reducing the yields on suitable acres. These 

should be evaluated when the data from the forest inventory becomes available. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 91 

 

Monitoring Item: Timber Inventory

Monitoring Objective:

Verify the current inventory of green lodgepole pine sawtimber. Also verify the inventory of 

green mixed conifer sawtimber. 

Monitoring Questions:

Is the lodgepole pine continuing to die at a rate that can support the planned salvage 

programmed? 

Threshold of Concern:

The planned or projected inventory of either the mature lodgepole pine working group or the 

mature mixed conifer working group varies by more than 25 percent of the revised inventory. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

The scheduled re-inventory of the Forest. 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness & Validation 

Results and Findings:

The Forest has been working toward the new vegetation inventory for a couple years. New 

vegetation maps based upon satellite imagery have been received. The 3.4 mile inventory grid 

has been completed and the 1.7 mile grid has been completed. The raw data should be processed 

and made ready for use by the end of FY-1996. 

The new timber inventory is based upon a 1.7 mile fixed grid. Nested within and part of the 1.7 

mile grid is a 3.4 mile grid specifically designed to develop the information needed to complete 

the RPA assessment. The plots within the 3.4 mile grid were taken in the summer of 1993. 

Some plots on the 1.7 mile grid were taken during the summer of 1994. The remaining plots on 

the 1.7 mile grid were taken in the summer of 1995. 

Lodgepole Pine Mortality Summary

1986 through 1995

Mortality (mbf)

District 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995

Chemult 24371 11008 28170 3514 524 98 102 197 126 51 

Chiloquin 355 320 2355 458 51 23 30 326 97 4 

Klamath 85 594 30 36 19 - 8 3 120 40 

Winema Total 24811 11922 30555 4008 594 121 140 140 343 95 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 92 

Evaluation:

The new timber inventory is progressing on schedule. The main question that the inventory was 

needed to answer was the amount of volume in the mixed conifer working group on suitable timber 

lands. The mixed conifer inventory has been completed but analysis of the data was not 

accomplished for the preparation of this report. The new inventory information will come available 

in time for the Forest Plan revision. This revision has been delayed in order to incorporate Eastside 

EIS direction. 

Mortality in lodgepole pine has greatly declined. In 1984 nearly 50 million board feet were dying. 

Now, the lodgepole pine mortality is less than one million board feet per year. This indicates that 

the lodgepole pine mortality is not sufficient to maintain the planned salvage program in lodgepole 

pine of 40.2 million board feet per year. 

Recommended Action:

The inventory should proceed as planned and analysis should be pursued as the information becomes 

available. 

The lodgepole pine mortality will not maintain the current lodgepole pine salvage program. The 

Forest will continue to salvage excessive lodgepole mortality as it occurs. When the new timber 

inventory is available for use, we will need to review the planned harvest program in lodgepole pine 

to see if more of the green lodgepole pine should be planned for harvest during this decade. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 93 

 

Monitoring Item: Harvest Unit Size 

Monitoring Objective:

 Verify that timber harvest units meet the standards and guidelines for size and dispersion. 

Determine whether maximum size limits for harvest areas should be continued (36 CFR 

219.12(k)(5)(iv). 

Monitoring Questions:

Did any of the harvest units exceed the size or dispersion limitation in the standards and guidelines? 

Were exceptions to the standards and guidelines properly documented and reviewed? 

Are unit size restrictions needed to achieve other resource coordination requirements? 

Threshold of Concern:

 Any harvest unit which creates an opening larger than 40 acres. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Annual review of the STARS data base and project level environmental assessment documentation. 

Monitoring Type:

Implementation & Effectiveness 

Results and Findings:

The following table shows the number of acres by working group by silviculture treatment for fiscal 

years 1991 through 1995: 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 94 

1991

Working Groups Treated

Acres

Silviculture

Treatment

Mixed Conifer 

Immature

Mixed Conifer 

Mature 2 Story

Ponderosa Pine

Mature 2 Story

Clearcut 9 20 35 

Seedtree cut 0 9 0 

Removal cut 0 9 0 

1992

Working Groups Treated

Acres

Silviculture

Treatment

Clearcut There were no acres treated with these 

Seedtree cut treatments during fiscal year 1992. 

Removal cut 

1993

Working Groups Treated

Acres

Silviculture

Treatment

Lodgepole pine

Mature 1 Story

Pine Associated

Mature 1 Story

Ponderosa Pine

Immature

Ponderosa Pine

Mature 1 Story

Clearcut 0 0 0 0 

Seedtree cut 526 1,647 397 13,933 

Removal cut 0 0 0 0 

1994

Working Groups Treated

Acres

Silviculture

Treatment

Lodgepole pine

Mature 1 Story

Pine Associated

Mature 1 Story

Ponderosa Pine

Immature

Ponderosa Pine

Mature 1 Story

Clearcut 0 0 0 0 

Seedtree cut 0 187 0 1,098 

Removal cut 0 0 0 0 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 95 

1995

Working Groups Treated

Acres

Silviculture

Treatment

Lodgepole pine

Mature 1 Story

Pine Associated

Mature 1 Story

Ponderosa Pine

Immature

Ponderosa Pine

Mature 1 Story

Clearcut 0 0 0 0 

Seedtree cut 0 0 130 802 

Removal cut 0 0 0 0 

Evaluation:

None of the regeneration units exceed harvest unit size limitations. 

Recommended Action:

No action needed 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 96 

 

Monitoring Item: Regeneration Success

Monitoring Objective:

Verify that all regeneration cutting units and other deforested acres are reforested in a timely 

manner. 

Verify that all regeneration units are reforested within the time period specified in 36 CFR 219.7 (c) 

(3) 

Monitoring Questions:

Are all even-aged regeneration harvest units reforested within 5 years of clearcutting or within 5 

years of the final removal cut for all seed tree and shelterwood treatments? 

Are all uneven-aged harvest units reforested within 5 years if the treatment reduces the residual 

stocking below minimum levels? 

Threshold of Concern:

Anytime a reforestation unit, either even-aged or uneven-aged management, is not reforested within 

5 years. 

Anytime first year planting success is below 80 percent. Anytime third year planting success is 

below 70 percent. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

First, third, and fifth year regeneration stocking surveys. 

Monitoring Type:

Implementation 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 97 

Results and Findings:

 First Year Planting Survival

 Percent survival by species by year

Species 1988 198

9

199

0

1991 199

2

199

3

199

4

1995

Ponderosa pine 87 90 94 89 90 82 67 73 

Lodgepole pine 91 94 96 90 95 91 63 78 

Average for all species 87 88 93 84 89 83 65 73 

Third Year Planting Survival

 Percent survival by species by year

Species 1988 198

9

199

0

1991 199

2

199

3

199

4

1995

Ponderosa pine 89 80 62 96 84 68 77 63 

Lodgepole pine 93 98 76 77 86 81 88 67 

Average for all species 91 79 67 82 82 70 78 62 

 Fifth year Reforestation Success

Year of Final Harvest

1988 1989 1990

Acres of Final Harvest 27,945 22,523 10,430 

Acres Adequately Stocked 27,108 22,117 9,041 

Percent Ref. Success 98 98 87 

Evaluation:

First year survival is improved this year. Third year survival is down a little reflecting some of 

the harsh sites encountered in the Lone Pine Fire area. The drop in fifth year survival is the 

result of about 1200 acres of 1990 plantations being burned in the Lone Pine Fire. These areas 

are being reforested and will be tracked by the year of replanting in the future. Other than these 

acres fifth year survival is about 98%. 

Recommended Action:

Plantations established in FY94 need to be closely monitored for fill-in planting in 1996 to 

ensure reforestation success in 5 years. Those areas of the Lone Pine Fire that are planted on 

harsh sites need to be evaluated to determine whether or not understocked areas should be taken 

out of the suitable timber base and if what stocking is there is acceptable. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 98 

 

Monitoring Item: Insects and Disease

Monitoring Objective:

Determine the level of pest activities on the Forest so that programs can be modified as necessary to 

prevent unplanned losses. 

Monitoring Questions:

Is rot root damage increasing? 

Threshold of Concern:

Anytime a forest pest reduces plantation stocking levels within 25 percent of minimum stocking 

levels. 

Loss of growth or mortality in excess of 10 percent above normal losses. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Annual insect and disease surveys, field reviews, and biological evaluations. 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness 

Results and Findings:

Winema National Forest

Pest Occurrence Summary

1989 through 1995

(mbf)

CHEMULT RANGER DISTRICT 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 

Fir Engraver 64 67 21 7 14 36 13 

Mt Pine Beetle (Lodgepole pine) 3514 524 98 102 197 126 51 

Mt Pine Beetle (Sugar pine) 2 - - 176 5 58 1 

Mt Pine Beetle (Western white pine) - 1 - - - - - 

Mt Pine Beetle (Ponderosa pine) 24 1 2 14 9 - 25 

Western Pine Beetle 67 18 11 - 47 64 13 

TOTAL CHEMULT 3671 611 132 299 272 283 102
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 99 

 

Winema National Forest

Pest Occurrence Summary

1989 through 1995

(mbf)

(continued) 

CHILOQUIN RANGER DISTRICT 1989 1990 199

1 

199

2 

199

3 

1994 1995 

Fir Engraver 1882 335 138

5 

381 1240 821 12045 

Mt Pine Beetle (Lodgepole pine) 458 51 23 30 326 97 4 

Mt Pine Beetle (Sugar pine) 222 77 60 334 37 21 - 

Mt Pine Beetle (Ponderosa pine) - - 161 786 59 48 575 

Western Pine Beetle 970 116 205 137 361 1563 159 

TOTAL CHILOQUIN 3532 579 183

4

1668 2023 2550 12783

KLAMATH RANGER DISTRICT 1989 1990 199

1 

199

2 

199

3 

1994 1995 

Fir Engraver 668 1363 311 25 567 612 7621 

Mt Pine Beetle (Lodgepole pine) 36 19 - 8 3 120 40 

Mt Pine Beetle (Sugar pine) 2 21 19 26 3 5 - 

Mt Pine Beetle (Western white pine) 17 106 6 69 - 124 - 

Mt Pine Beetle (Ponderosa pine) - 9 3 - 1 4 2 

Western Pine Beetle 492 565 197 233 209 386 13 

Douglas-fir Beetle - 2 8 - - - - 

TOTAL KLAMATH 1216 2085 544 361 783 1252 7668

Evaluation:

The information presented above is summarized from the yearly aerial survey conducted by 

Forest Pest Management in the Regional Office, State and Private Forestry. The values in this 

report should not be looked at as being precise, because they are determined from aerial 

observation, but the values are a good indication of trends and magnitude. 

The mountain pine beetle and western pine beetle activity is at near normal levels across the 

forest. The western pine beetle together with mountain pine beetle continues to cause mortality 

in large ponderosa pine trees used by Bald Eagles for nesting and roosting near Upper Klamath 

Lake. 

Fir engraver beetle mortality is very high on South Chiloquin and remains high on Klamath 

District. The fir engraver is very closely associated with root rot diseases. The root rots 

generally stress the tree and then the fir engraver can successfully attack and kill the tree. This 

normal relationship has been compounded by the drought which has also caused the fir trees to 

be under much more stress than normal. We can not assume a major increase in root disease at 

this time just because the fir engraver has shown an increase in activity. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 100 

Ground exams indicate that some areas are having the white fir nearly eliminated from the 

stand. The implications for fire hazard and wildlife habitat are considerable. 

Recommended Action:

Stocking level control silviculture treatments need to be increased on the Klamath Ranger District to 

protect the remaining large ponderosa pine trees which are used by the Bald Eagle. Stocking level 

control will reduce the stress on the remaining ponderosa pine trees and eliminate the accelerated 

mortality from western pine beetle and by the mountain pine beetle. 

Salvage of the white fir mortality is becoming a priority. The rapid deterioration of small, dead 

white fir, its low volume per acre, and the widespread mortality create a situation where we will not 

be able to salvage much of the dead material. This is creating a situation where significant changes 

are taking place in stands covering many acres. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 101 

Monitoring Item: Soil

Monitoring Objective:

Assure that soil productivity (chemical, biological, and physical soil properties) is maintained at 

levels capable of supporting the forest resources. 

Monitoring Questions:

Is erosion, displacement, or compaction occurring? 

Threshold of Concern:

Compaction, displacement, puddling, or severely burned conditions exceed 20 percent of the 

activity area, including roads, skid trails, and landings. Detrimental compaction, according to the 

Regional standards, is defined as an increase in bulk density of 20 percent or more. 

Organic residues and biological and chemical properties are adversely altered by timber harvest 

and site preparation, resulting in reduced soil productivity. 

Tree growth is less than acceptable levels. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Visual surveillance and instrumentation monitoring to determine extent of compacted, displaced, 

and severely burned soil. 

Visual surveillance to determine residue cover for soil erosion protection and nutrient carry over. 

Cumulative soil condition survey. 

Methods to be developed by PNW Experiment Station for monitoring the effects of organic 

residues on soil biological and chemical properties will be utilized. For monitoring of tree 

growth, refer to "Monitoring Element: Timber - Growth Response to Silvicultural Treatment." 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness 

Results and Findings:

A standard protocol for monitoring detrimental soil conditions was adopted for the Forest. 

Chemult monitored 6534 acres using this protocol. All of the units monitored were harvested 

using ground based equipment. Soil probes were calibrated against bulk density determined by 

laboratory testing. Of the 83 units monitored, only 1 met the Regional standard of detrimental 

compaction over less than 20 percent of the area. On an acreage basis, roughly 4000 acres 

exceeded a 20 percent increase in bulk density. Of the 6534 acres monitored, this means 61 

percent of the area does not meet the Regional standard. 

Chemult is to be commended for the effort put forth in soil monitoring this year. Future 

monitoring will include information on which SRI unit each of the transects was in, specific 

harvest method and silvicultural prescription. As the database for this information expands, we 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 102 

hope to be able to pinpoint which soils are most susceptible to compaction and formulate 

prescriptions and remedial treatments to bring the soil resource into compliance with Forest Plan 

Standards and Guidelines. 

Chiloquin monitored soils as a part of the Watershed Analysis effort. From the conclusion of the 

soil scientist's report: 

"Some of the units that show the greatest degree of detrimental 

compaction consist of soil groups listed by the SRI to be less susceptible 

(specifically the A and B group soils)." 

Of the ten units sampled in the Hog and Yoss watersheds, four exceeded the Forest Plan 

Standards and Guidelines for detrimental compaction, four units are approaching the standard 

and two are well below the standard. This equates to 40 percent exceed the standard and 60 

percent meet the standard. 

Monitoring of the fire rehabilitation structures on the Quick Fire was inconclusive. Even though 

we had a moderate snowpack that came early and stayed late, melting across the Forest was 

gradual and produced only a small amount of runoff. Runoff in the winter of 95/96 has been 

more significant and the in-channel structures have functioned well to detain sediment. 

Soil conditions in Rider's Camp meadow were monitored in 1994 and were estimated to be poor. 

Compaction and some pedestaling was evident throughout the meadow. We did not quantify the 

amount of compaction but observation indicated more than 20 percent of the soil was in a 

detrimental condition due to compaction. Severe erosion of the channel banks is continuing. 

Riders Camp continues to be grazed although no monitoring was reported by the District. 

Soil compaction continued to be an issue on the Klamath District. In 1994, monitoring was 

conducted to determine if over-the-snow logging effectively prevented compaction on pumice 

soils. Some of the monitoring was completed in 1995 on Gopher Timber Sale. Harvest occured 

on soil group "D"; loamy coarse sands formed in volcanic ash. Where snow depth was at least 

24" over frozen ground, compaction remained below the threshold of concern. However, 

standards were exceeded when operations continued during snowmelt. In addition, a similar 

monitoring exercise was initiated on the Swamp Timber Sale on glacial alluvium. The 

effectiveness will be determined when logging is completed. 

Harvest over-the-snow in the Odessa Campground sale resulted in limited increase in soil 

compaction, and minimal litter and topsoil displacement. 

In the Nannie Timber Sale, harvest activities detrimentally compacted an additional 4% of the 

selected monitored unit. Monitoring showed the cumulative detrimental compaction to total 

23% of the area, just over regional standards. 

Slick and Shave were monitored for compaction and displacement on 30-40% slopes. Harvest 

by shears caused displacement and detrimental compaction that exceeded the forest plan 

standards. In addition, much of the displaced soil became saturated and flowed downhill. It 

appears that the 35% slope standard for ground based equipment is an inadequate restriction for 

some soils. 

All new sale offerings now include C6.425 which limits operations of off skid trails when soil 

moisture is greater than 17% as determined by speedy soil moisture meter. This practice was 

initiated based upon monitoring from previous years. Site preparation activities continue to 

emphasize subsoiling. While the treatment is not extensive enough to reduce soil compaction 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 103 

below thresholds that exist in the Forest Plan, some alleviation is accomplished that beneficially 

effects seedling growth and survival. 

In years past, C6.425 has been used to limit ground based operations when soil moisture 

exceeded 17 percent. While tractor operations should certainly be curtailed when soil moistures 

are conducive to compaction, Chiloquin District in particular found the 17 percent rule to be too 

limiting to prevent compaction. Sale administrators found damage was occurring on some 

pumice soils at lower soil moistures and had no way to limit the operation. The use of this clause 

has been dropped in order to allow the sale administrators to make a call in the field. 

Klamath and Chemult districts soil monitoring has exceeded that of prior years. In addition 

reporting has been more complete. 

Evaluation:

While monitoring records are still inadequate to assess overall soil conditions, trends on the 

Forest indicate ground based logging equipment is compacting pumice soil above Forest Plan 

Standards and Guides and above the Regional standard. 

Recommended Action:

The Forest continues to develop a standardized monitoring program. Records of soil conditions 

on EAs/EISs in progress, on recently implemented projects and on older projects are needed to 

determine if remedial efforts are required. Monitoring to determine effectiveness of current 

mitigation efforts is needed. More information is needed on the effect of measured compaction 

on vegetative growth. Other ecosystem components, such as mycorrhizae and their relationship 

to forest health in the pumice zone should be studied in conjunction with the Deschutes National 

Forest and PNW Research. 

The Forest is contracting an Ecological Unit Inventory (EUI) to assist our efforts in learning 

about the soils on the Forest. The EUI includes information on soils, potential natural 

vegetation, geology and geomorphology. Data for soils is consistent with the National 

Cooperative Soil Survey. As the inventory is completed, monitoring sites can be referenced to 

correlated soils, allowing more input to management recommendations. 

.
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 104 

 

Monitoring Item: Riparian Area Cumulative Effects

Monitoring Objective:

Determine whether the unique and valuable characteristics of riparian areas, including water quality, 

wildlife habitat and fish habitat near or within riparian ecosystems, are being maintained or 

improved. 

Monitoring Questions:

Is long-term riparian and channel health being maintained, or if not in good condition, being 

improved; and is channel structure and function adequate to safely pass peak flows, maintain late 

season base flows, and provide fish habitat? 

Threshold of Concern:

 Decrease in structure and function of channels and flood plains. 

Decrease in quantity, quality, and diversity of riparian plant communities and wildlife habitat. 

Riparian areas and streams not correctly identified. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Permanently installed terrestrial, biological, and stream channel transects and photo point 

documentation. Approximately 15 to 20 representative locations. Each location will be measured 

once every 4 years and will be tracked over duration of many decades. 

Field check a representative sampling of riparian areas affected by project work before and after 

projects. 

a. Post-project sampling soon after project completion. 

b. Post-project-project sampling 2 to 5 years after project completion. 

Riparian area survey. 

Also see monitoring elements for Fish Habitat, Water, Wildlife, Range, and Diversity. 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness 

Results and Findings:

Riparian conditions in Copperfield Draw continue to improve through putting the range permit in 

non-use. Willow and grasses have begun to colonize the channel bottom. However, a headcut at the 

lower end of Copperfield Draw and another near the upper end threaten the recovery of the riparian 

area and the meadow. A topographic survey of the lower end of Copperfield will aid in the design of 

stabilization structures with additional vegetative controls. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 105 

Riders Camp continues to decline in condition. An electric fence was installed at the beginning of 

the grazing season, but the fence failed and approximately one to two dozen cows used the area over 

the season. The permittee did not ride often enough to prevent overgrazing when approaching 

utilization, nor was the grazing administration adequate to protect the riparian resource from 

damage. 

Forest personnel received training in using the BLM's "Process for Assessing Proper Functioning 

Condition of Riparian Areas" (PFC). This is an interdisciplinary process to determine if riparian 

areas are functioning, functioning at risk with a trend, or not functioning. PFC was used in limited 

areas in this first field season to determine impacts of range permitting on riparian areas for permit 

re-issuance. As the Forest continues to implement PFC assessments, we will be able to establish a 

baseline and trend for riparian areas as will as target resources more efficiently for restoration. 

Evaluation:

Riparian monitoring reported by the Districts for FY95 was inadequate to make predictions about 

overall riparian trends. 

As part of the aquatic program and in conjunction with terms and agreements from Section 7 

consultation under the Endangered Species Act, permanent monitoring sites were established in 

critical riparian areas throughout Chiloquin Ranger District. Historic condition and trend transects 

were located and re-read. New condition and trend transects (utilizing established R-6 protocol) 

were established and base line data is being collected. Channel morphology cross sectional 

measurements established in conjunction with some of these sites. Permanent photo points were 

placed in key locations throughout the riparian coridoors. Base data will be collected for three 

consecutive years and then trend data will be collected every 5 years there after. 

Recommended Action:

Rider's Camp meadow will be fenced again in 1996 with the fence being rebuilt to higher standards. 

Grazing permit administration needs to be tightened to assist the permittee in meeting Forest Plan 

Standards and Guidelines. 

Management of the Forest Camp meadow appears to be maintaining high quality riparian conditions. 

Copperfield Draw is being studied for a restoration plan to stabilize active headcuts in the main 

channel and revegetation. While the health of the willow population continues to improve, there are 

too few to provide the stabilization need to prevent further downcutting. 

Continue the use of PFC assessments for all projects in and near riparian areas. It is imperative to 

use the interdisciplinary approach to PFC assessments to keep the quality control and integrity high. 

An intermittent stream survey protocol was tested on the Forest. The survey protocol gives us basic 

geomorphic data. Refinements to the survey are being made based on the field testing done by 

students of Rogue Community College in Grants Pass. All intermittent streams on the Forest which 

are the primary stream in that watershed should be surveyed. Priorities would be set for those 

streams in active planning areas. This would tie in with watershed analysis and project planning to 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 106 

protect and improve riparian areas across the Forest. There is no funding in FY96 to support this 

project. 

A cooperative agreement was developed between a range permittee, the Ecosystem Restoration 

Office, Natural Resource Conservation Service, and the USFS to fence and rehabilitate riparian areas 

along Rock Creek in the Dams/Switchback Allotment. This system was in a degraded condition. It 

is in mixed private and federal ownership. The permittees are very active and progressive. However 

it was determined that conditions were not recovering as quickly as was desired. A riparian fence is 

being constructed this summer, gradient control structures will be placed in channel this fall, head 

cuts will be stabilized next summer, and extensive monitoring will be conducted. This system 

supports an isolated, native population of sensitive red band trout and exhibits connectivity to 

occupied habitat of endangered sucker species. This is a very good example of multiple partner 

cooperative effort with benifits to range productivity, water quality, riparian function, and fishery 

populations. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 107 

 

Monitoring Item: Water Quality

Monitoring Objective:

Determine Best Management Practice (BMP) Implementation and Effectiveness. 

Determine whether water quality is maintained or improved and associated beneficial uses of 

water are adequately protected. 

Determine whether stream channel stability of favorable conditions of stream flow is maintained. 

Determine compliance with State requirements in accordance with the Clean Water Act for 

protection of the waters of the State of Oregon, including the anti-degradation policy for high 

quality waters and wild and scenic rivers. 

Monitoring Questions:

Are water resource-related Best Management Practices (BMPs) being properly identified, 

implemented, and documented? 

Threshold of Concern:

Fewer than 90 percent of BMPs required in standards and guidelines and prescriptions are 

included in environmental assessments, contracts, and project plans. 

Fewer than 90 percent of planned BMPs are being implemented in activities. 

Water quality and channel condition are insufficient to maintain existing beneficial uses of water. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

The field implementation of site-specific BMPs will be monitored to some extent for each 

project. 

A "Best Management Practice Check List" will be developed for each activity unit (from 

"General Water Quality Best Management Practices," USFS Region 6, November 1988). 

BMP items included in environmental analyses, contracts, and project plans will be recorded on 

the BMP checklist. Completion of each BMP will be recorded on BMP checklist for each 

activity unit. 

Where BMPs are not implemented or are ineffective, mitigation measures will be planned, 

implemented, and monitored. 

Information will be documented in a check list and/or narrative format and stored in the project 

records. 

Results will be analyzed to assess compliance with the Forest Plan. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 108 

Monitoring Type:

Implementation. 

Results and Findings:

Environmental documents submitted for review included nine from Chemult, one from Klamath 

and none from Chiloquin District. The Elk Timber Sale EA was selected at random for review. 

BMPs were included as an easily available appendix to the EA. Forty-six BMPs were listed for 

implementation. The document was reviewed to see if BMPs addressed concerns raised in the 

EA and the Elk Timber Sale contract was reviewed to check if implementation of the BMPs was 

adequately planned for. 

The following BMPs were included in the EA and were adequately addressed in the EA: 

T-1: Timber Sale Planning Process 

T-2: Timber Harvest Unit Design 

R-1: General Guidelines for the Location and Design of Roads 

F-1: Fire and Fuel Management Activity 

These BMPs were included in the EA and are scheduled for implementation in the timber sale 

contract: 

T-11: Tractor Skid Trail Location and Design, CT6.4 

T-13: Erosion Prevention and Control Measures During Timber Sale Operations, BT6.6 

T-15: Log Landing Erosion Prevention and Control, BT6.63 

T-16: Erosion Control on Skid Trails, BT6.64 

T-18: Erosion Control Structure Maintenance, BT6.66 

T-19:Acceptance of Timber Sale Erosion Control Measures Before Sale Closure, BT6.66 

T-21: Servicing and Refueling Equipment, BT6.34 

T-22: Modification of the Timber Sale Contract, BT8.3, CT8.3 

R-7: Control of Surface Road Drainage Associated with Roads, CT5.42 

R-17:Water Source Development Consistent with Water Quality Protection, T891.02F 

R-18: Maintenance of Roads, CT5.4 

R-19: Road Surface Treatment to Prevent Loss of Materials, CT5.42, CT5.42 

R-21: Snow Removal Controls to Avoid Resource Damage, CT5.42, CT5.42 

R-23: Obliteration of Temporary Roads, CT5.1 

W-4:Oil and Hazardous Substance Spill Contigency Plan and Spill Prevention Control and 

Countermeasures Plan, CT6.341 

These BMPs were included in the EA and not site specific or are inadequate in some other way: 

T-4:Use of Sale Area Maps for Designating Water Quality Protection Needs 

● There are no water quality protection needs designated on the sale area map. If this 

isn't necessary, don't use the BMP. 

T-7: Streamside Management Unit Designation 

● There are no areas indicated on the sale area map for water quality protection. Unit 2 

has two potentially intermittent streams within the unit. Other units appear to avoid the 

need for SMUs through avoidance of water resources. Either eliminate the BMP from 

the document or state clearly that it was implemented through unit design. 

T-17:Meadow Protection During Timber Harvesting 

● This is included as a standard contract provision, BT6.61, but site specific meadows 

should be listed in the EA or appendix as part of the BMP. 

T-20: Reforestation 

● This BMP is not generally appropriate for unevenaged presciptions where natural 

regeneration is the only avenue for reforestation. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 109 

R-6: Dispersion of Subsurface Drainage Associated with Roads 

● Dispersion of surface drainage is included with standard contract provisions. If you 

anticipate a subsurface drainage problem associated with a wet meadow crossing or a 

mid-slope road, this BMP needs to address this by site specifically, otherwise, eliminate 

the BMP. 

R-20: Traffic Control During Wet Periods 

● It is not clear when traffic is controlled and how this is anticipated to protect the soil 

and water resources. 

R-22: Restoration of Borrow Pits and Quarries 

● There is no mention of this in the EA. If restoration is required, be specific about 

where this is taking place. 

F-2 and F-4: Consideration of Water Quality in Formulating Prescribed Fire Prescriptions 

and Protection of Water Quality During Prescribed Fire Operations 

● Prescribed Fire is not considered in the EA. 

W-1:Watershed Restoration 

● Watershed restoration is not addressed in the EA. 

W-7:Water Quality Monitoring 

● There is no monitoring plan in the EA, nor is it clear where water quality would be 

monitored. 

W-9:Surface Erosion Control at Facility Sites 

● BMP is not site specific. 

Rec-1 through Rec-7: Recreation BMPs 

● These are not site specific and it is not clear why they are being included in a timber 

sale EA. 

Rec-8: Protection of Water Quality within Developed and Dispersed Recreation Sites 

● This BMP is specific to recreation uses. The appropriate BMP for this EA was already 

included in R-17. 

VM-3:Revegetation of Surface and Disturbed Areas 

● Not site specific, nor is it included in the contract. 

VM-4: Soil Moisture Limitations for Tractor Operations 

● This is not included in the contract and there will be no way to implement it. 

The Elk Timber Sale was partially logged in 1995 and is expected to be complete in 1996. 

During the field season of 1996, BMPs will be checked in the field for implementation and 

effectiveness. It is important to be site specific to comply with the Clean Water Act. When the 

area is monitored, site specific BMPs will be critical to evaluate implementation and 

effectiveness. 

In some cases BMP's are incorporated in the EA document and in other cases they remain in the 

analysis files. The key is that they be incorporated in contract documents and implemented in 

the field. Field implementation monitoring of BMPs was absent again this year. Apparently, 

Districts did not follow the recommendation made last year to monitor 50 percent of the 

activities implemented because no reports have been made. 

A monitoring report for water quality, trophic index, and other factors was completed for Miller 

Lake on Chemult District and Bert, Center, Marguarette, Trapper and Wind Lakes in the Sky 

Lakes Wilderness. These studies indicate that for a snapshot in time, the water quality in these 

lakes is acceptable. Further monitoring is necessary to establish any trends in the water quality 

over time. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 110 

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) published the Draft 303(D) list for 

comment. In the Draft listing, the following waters on the Winema were out of compliance with 

temperature standards: 

Spencer Creek 

Sycan River 

Trout Creek 

Cherry Creek 

Rock Creek (D3) 

Threemile Creek 

Williamson River 

These additonal parameters were also listed as water quality limiting on the listed water body: 

Clover Creek: sediment 

Spencer Creek: biological criteria, habitat and flow modification, sediment 

Rock Creek (D3): habitat modification 

Threemile Creek: habitat modification 

These listings are based on data supplied by the Forest either through the adjudication process or 

watershed analyses. It will be incumbent on the Forest to continue to monitor these waters to 

assist DEQ in refining the listings or to show improvement in the listed water quality parameters. 

The DEQ has targeted the Klamath Basin for the development of Total Maximum Daily Loads 

(TMDLs). 

Evaluation:

The trend over the last few years has been toward more awareness of BMP's and their 

importance so that now they are recognized in environmenntal analyses. More training sessions 

will be planned for FY96 to help insure that BMP's are appropriately identified during project 

planning, incorporated in contract documents and carried out in the field. 

Recommended Action:

The recommendation from last year to implement an adaptation of the Region 5 BMP monitoring 

system still stands. In addition, training for all personnel involved in planning of ground 

disturbing activities will be scheduled for FY96. 

Incorporate site specific BMP discussions in all project EAs and develop BMP analysis in the 

project record. Insure that BMP's, whether documented in the analysis file or in the EA, are 

appropriately incorporated into contract documents. 

Continue WIN Inventory. Obtain funding for WIN restoration projects. 

Monitor 50 percent of activities for BMP implementation and effectiveness in 1996. Districts 

must forward this information to the Supervisor's Office for incorporation into the FY96 

monitoring report. 

Continue monitoring key water quality parameters on Lake of the Woods and Miller Lake to 

establish trends in water quality. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 111 

Monitoring Item: Transportation System

Monitoring Objective:

To ensure that the Transportation system is serving the needs of the public and is providing adequate 

access for accomplishment of the Forest Plan Goals and Objectives. 

Monitoring Questions:

Is the Transportation system being managed and maintained to meet Forest Plan Goals and 

Objectives? 

Threshold of Concern:

1. The miles of Passenger car, High Clearance, and Intermittent road access are within + or - 10 

percent of the Forest Plan Levels. 

2. Public concerns have indicated that adequate road access is not being provided to meet public 

needs. 

3. Program Reviews have indicated that road access on the Forest is not adequate for accomplish of 

the Forest Plan Goals and Objectives. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Annual update and review of data, evaluation of public concerns or input received, results of 

environmental analysis, and program reviews. 

Monitoring Type:

Implementation 

Results and Findings:

In 1995, Passenger car and High Clearance access available was within the 10% threshold. (Refer to 

Monitoring Item-Road Access Type under the Monitoring Item: Accomplishment of Outputs and 

Services) 

In 1995, Intermittent road access available was outside the threshold. (Refer to Monitoring Item - 

Road Access Type under the Monitoring Item: Accomplishment of Outputs and Services). The 

Klamath Tribes have expressed concerns regarding road closures and road obliteration. These 

concerns are related to road closures infringing upon treaty rights for access, a concern that there is 

not adequate east-west open road access, and a concern that the Forest has not adequately involved 

the Klamath Tribes in road closure decisions. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife has 

expressed the need to reduce the amount of open roads, in both specific areas and generally across 

the forest. The Forest is currently working with the Klamath Tribes, Oregon Department of Fish and 

Wildlife, and interested publics regarding analysis of access and travel management in the Lone Pine 

fire area and for areas adjacent to the Klamath Marsh. 

The Klamath Country Trails Committee has expressed the need for more use opportunities for Allterrain vehicles (ATV's) and 4-Wheel drive vehicles on the forest. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 112 

Other public comments have been received regarding roads and road access, but they have been 

specific to an individual road need, and the concern or access need was resolved with the individual. 

No formal program reviews were conducted during FY 95. 

An Access and Travel Management Implementation Guide and Implementation Plan was completed 

in FY 93, to guide access and travel management analysis on the Forest. Access and travel 

management analysis is being done for selected priority areas. In FY 95, access and travel 

management is being analyzed for the Lone Pine fire area, for areas adjacent to the Klamath Marsh, 

and in the Southeast portion of Chemult Ranger District. 

Evaluation:

The levels of open roads available for passenger car and high clearance vehicle access is adequate. 

The amount of passenger car and high clearance vehicle access is within the thresholds and there has 

been no public comment that access was not adequate. 

The levels of Intermittent road access available are outside the threshold, resulting in more open 

roads than are needed for public, administrative, and project access. Before the levels of open roads 

can be reduced, concerns of the Klamath Tribes must be resolved and the Forest must complete 

access and travel management planning and environmental analysis for selected project areas. 

Analysis for access and travel in the Lone Pine Fire Area, areas adjacent to the Klamath Marsh, and 

the Southeast section of Chemult District is planned to be completed in FY 97. 

Klamath Country Trails Committee, and other interested groups, have expressed the desire for more 

use opportunities for All-terrain vehicles (ATV's) and 4-Wheel drive vehicles on the forest. Where 

appropriate, and subject to Management area goals and objectives, it is felt that more opportunities 

can be provided for ATV and 4-Wheel drive uses. 

Other public comments have been received regarding individual road needs or road access concerns. 

These are being dealt with and resolved as they occur, in accordance with National Environmental 

Policy Act requirements. 

Recommended Action:

Continue to monitor the levels of open roads available for passenger car and high clearance vehicle 

access. 

Continue to work towards resolution of concerns regarding road closures and road obliteration, with 

the Klamath Tribes. Complete access and travel management analysis in the Lone Pine Fire area, 

Klamath Marsh area, and the Southeast portion of Chemult in FY 97, with involvement of the 

Klamath Tribes, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and interested agencies and the public. 

Select future priority areas for analysis of access and travel management. 

Continue to work with the Klamath Country Trails Committee, and other interested groups, to 

develop more opportunities for All-terrain vehicles (ATV's) and 4-Wheel drive vehicles. 

Continue to work with individuals, regarding road access needs or concerns, in compliance with 

National Environmental Policy Act. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 113 

 

Monitoring Item: Social and Economic Setting

Monitoring Objective:

 Consider the effects of National Forest Management on communities adjacent to or near the 

Winema National Forest. 

Monitoring Questions:

Is the total Forest program similar in job and income impacts to the Forest Plan estimates? 

Is the socioeconomic structure of the local area changing in a way which could lead to conflicts 

between the community and the Forest or to problems related to Forest management issues? 

Are National Forest returns to the county lower than historic levels and adversely affecting 

County government? 

Threshold of Concern:

Annual "total job" estimate of less than 1,800 jobs or "total income" less than $50 million (1982 

dollars). 

Identifiable community problems that can be linked to changes in Forest Service programs. 

Annual 25 percent fund disbursements to the State (for re-distribution to the County) less than 

$7,920,000 (1985 through 1989 average expressed in 1982 dollars) or a 10 percent decline from 

the previous year. 

Suggested Sampling Methods:

Develop an estimate of total jobs and income associated with the actual Forest program each 

year using the same process as used in developing the Forest Plan estimates. This involves 

updating the estimates of actual use levels and re-calculating the total jobs and total income 

using IMPLAN job and income coefficients. Document key differences in outputs which 

adversely affect jobs and income. 

Collect data on key socioeconomic indicators then develop a subjective analysis of the current 

socioeconomic situation and associated trends based upon the data. Co-operate with the 

Economist at the State Division of Employment in this analysis. 

Monitoring Type:

Effectiveness & Validation 

Results and Findings:

National Forest programs form an integral part of the local economy. When these programs 

change, the local economy is affected. This element is designed to track changes in Forest 

Service effects on the local economy as well as the general health of the economy. 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 114 

Forest Service Programs: 

● Estimated job impacts from the 1995 program: 776 jobs (Concern: less than 1,800) 

● Estimated income impacts from the 1995 program: $18,700,000 total income (Concern: less 

than $50,000,000) 

Community Economic Health and Conflict: 

● Local income rose 7.6 percent over three years (15 percent threshold). Local population rose 

3.7 percent over three years (15 percent threshold) 

● Total jobs increased 14.9 percent while lumber and wood products jobs declined 3.1 percent 

over three years (15 percent threshold) 

● While the changes to the Forest Products industry that were caused by changing Forest 

Service management could have led to intense conflict, that was averted by activity in other 

sectors of the local economy and changing demographics. There remains a "local control" 

undercurrent that could erupt with any additional Forest Service actions which adversely affect 

the local economy, but the likelihood of such an eruption seems to be diminishing as other 

sectors of the economy grow and as immigrants bring in new ideas. The 14.9% increase in 

total jobs is on the borderline of a level that could cause strain on local infrastructure. 

Payments to the County: 

● 1995 Payments: $5.29 million (Concern: less than $7.92 million - 1982$) 

● Change from 1994 to 1995: minus 5 percent (No Concern: less than 10% decrease) 

● County government was adversely impacted by reduced payments 

Evaluation:

In 1991 and 1992 the national economy was in the midst of a recession. The recession resulted in a 

reduced demand for lumber. This, in turn, reduced the amount of timber harvested below levels that 

would be seen in a robust economy. The national economy gradually improved in 1993 and demand 

for wood products began to slowly rise. The opportunity to supply more wood from the region has 

become limited because of declining volumes under contract and lower volumes of timber being 

sold. For these reasons, the price of stumpage rose dramatically as evidenced by prices ranging from 

$330 to $740 per thousand board feet for the fire-damaged timber salvaged from the Lone Pine area. 

The Forest Service had the opportunity to capture more of these high prices, but failed to do so. 

Instead the Winema National Forest began to implement interim direction for eastside forests 

(screens - Forest Plan Amendment 8) which limited harvest to trees smaller than 21 inches dbh. 

Similar limits where administratively applied to other areas of the Forest as well. At the same time 

concerns for soil compaction and other impacts led sale designers to require expensive logging 

systems, including helicopter logging. Simultaneously, management shifted the Forest emphasis to 

"forest heath" which often translated into salvage and thinning of relatively small trees. Some sales 

involved simply removal of slash piles. The result, in 1995, was the sale of some low valued 

products and several sales including Helirock (4.7 mmbf), Repot II (2.3 mmbf), Ruffday II (1.3 

mmbf) and Dip Fiber (2.1 mmbf) that failed to sell at auction. The way in which these sales were 

developed gives little indication as to the values that could have been obtained had green sawtimber 

been made available in accordance with the original Forest Plan direction. 

There are three factors which may lead to change in this situation. First, 35.9 mmbf of sales, that 

had been on hold due to litigation over Forest Plan Amendment 3, were directed by Congress to be 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 115 

awarded (referred to as Section 318 sales). Most of this volume is likely to be harvested in 1996. 

For this reason harvest activity for 1996 will probably be similar to that seen in 1995. Second, the 

Eastside Screens, that currently limit harvest to trees under 21 inches dbh and attempt to maintain 

management options for certain amenities, may be lifted when the Eastside Ecosystem Management 

Project produces its Record of Decision or the Forest Plan is revised. Third, sales being developed 

in the Copwood Planning Area on the Chiloquin District are aimed at removing much of the fir 

understory. Many of these trees will be valuable for plywood. If these sales are well designed and 

the approach is applied more broadly (there are around 250,000 acres in a similar condition) 

significant economic activity could be generated over the next decade. While these are hopeful 

points, it is not clear whether or not they will come about. The local economy will continue to be an 

area of concern into the foreseeable future. 

 

The Klamath County economy has done very well, to date, in adjusting to changes in the wood 

products industry. The total income, population and total jobs indicators all show positive changes 

that are not large enough to cause disruptions in the local economy. Nonetheless, impacts upon 

individuals may be significant. At the personal level, while we are seeing more jobs and larger total 

incomes, many new jobs pay less than $10 per hour and can not be considered 'family wage' jobs. 

While the trend appears to be toward families with multiple workers, the per capita income in 

Klamath County has risen nearly 16%, in real terms (accounting for inflation), in the decade from 

1983 to 1993 although it lags behind both the national and state levels. We are also seeing a 

continuation of growth in transfer payments. These payments grew by 7.5% from 1990 to 1991, 

6.6% from 1991 to 1992 and 4.0% from 1992 to 1993 (in real terms). The declining rate of growth 

in transfer payments may indicate a slowing in the influx of retirees to the area. 

The loss of much of the lumber production capacity in Klamath County means that increased sawlog 

sales on the Winema National Forest will primarily benefit residents in Jackson, Douglas and 

Deschutes Counties rather than residents of Klamath County. The sale of fir, that is suitable for 

plywood, is more likely to benefit Klamath County. There are efforts underway to develop 

"comprehensive treatment" projects on the Forest which may provide increased opportunities for 

local contractors to perform pre-commercial thinning and other activities. Employment in lumber 

and wood products will not increase in the future without some kind of assurance that the Forest 

Service will sustain a larger timber sale program. Such assurance is unlikely, but as opportunities 

to supply materials to the industry arise, they should be pursued. 

Prospects for increased tourism coupled with demand for developed recreation come as developed 

campgrounds on the Forest are nearing capacity. This could become an arena of conflict unless the 

Forest Service can develop additional facilities or work with other parties to provide them. 

Developments such as the Running Y Ranch, the Pelican Butte Ski Area and the Tribal Gaming 

Facility will all provide a certain level of recreation capacity, but they are also likely to generate 

associated demand that will want to be served by other providers. The Forest Plan schedules the 

addition of a group camping area at Lake of the Woods in the first decade. This facility would meet 

the needs for a group camping area and serve as an overflow camping area when not reserved. 

However, funding in the near future will be very limited and recreation use at existing facilities is 

currently causing excessive use levels on the Lake. The Forest should begin looking for 

opportunities to address this issue. It is critical to remember that as demographics and use patterns 

shift more toward these types of recreationists, it will become increasingly difficult to find support 

for the sale of timber. 

Year to year changes in payments to the State have been quite variable. The decline from 1989 to 

1990 was stopped with the institution of the "owl guarantee" in 1991. A further decline occurred 

from 1991 to 1992 with reductions in the level of guaranteed payments. The sale of the Lone Pine 
Winema National Forest FY 1995 Monitoring Report 116 

fire salvage sales in 1993 boosted receipts well above the owl guarantee due to the large volume and 

high values of the timber. From 1993 to 1994 receipts dropped back to levels similar to those prior 

to the Lone Pine Sales with less timber volume and lower valued products being sold. From 1994 to 

1995 receipts continued their gradual decline with reductions in the owl guarantee as the Forest 

continued to offer small amounts of low valued timber. Without the owl guarantee, the Winema's 

contribution to the County would have been $1.7 million ($1.10 million in 1982 dollars) in 1995. 

The owl guarantee provided $8.16 million ($5.29 million in 1982 dollars). Clearly, the owl 

guarantee is critical for the county. 

As currently legislated, the owl guarantee is based upon a five year average of actual receipts. For 

1996 the Winema National Forest will be at the 79% level. Thus the State, for distribution to 

Klamath County, will be guaranteed to receive 79% of 25% of the base five-year-average (1986 

through 1990) gross receipts (0.79 X 0.25 X $39,781,256.73 = $7,856,798.20). The guaranteed level 

will decline by 3% per year to 2003. Through 1998, the guarantee will be the payment, regardless of 

actual receipts. From 1999 through 2003, the payment will be the larger of 25% of gross receipts for 

the year or the guarantee. After 2003 the guarantee will disappear and payments will be based upon 

receipts alone. Unless significant changes in Forest management are made, payments to the County 

are likely to be well under $2,000,000 per year at that time. 

Because the major portion (96 percent) of receipts that feed the 25% fund come from timber sales, 

under current law it is necessary for timber receipts to increase if adverse consequences to the county 

are to be avoided. However, until 1999, the payment will equal the owl guarantee regardless of the 

actual receipts. Thus, there is nothing the Forest Service can do to alter payments to the County until 

after FY-98. Congress may alter the law to provide payments on some other basis or to permit 

additional use fees. Such action could resolve this concern. 

Recommended Actions:

Continue existing monitoring efforts at the current intensity. 

Work closely with local interests via the Community Action Teams, the County Overall Economic 

Development Program, and other programs to smooth the shift away from reliance on the lumber 

and wood products sectors. 

Support appropriate initiatives that will provide developed campgrounds within the south and central 

portions of the County. 

Examine opportunities to increase timber harvest in FY-98 and beyond. 

Revise the Forest plan to reflect realistic social, economic, and management situations.