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Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 1 

APPENDIX D - 1 

Forestwide Management Direction

The National Forest Management Act requires us to develop management direction for each 

National Forest. This “direction” is to be expressed through goals, objectives, standards, 

guidelines, management prescriptions, desired future conditions, and monitoring and evaluation 

requirements for the forest. Some direction logically can be applied to an entire national forest, 

while other direction should apply only to specific areas of the forest. For this reason, maps are 

used with this FEIS to show where particular direction would apply by alternative. Management 

prescriptions, recreation opportunities (summer and winter), scenery management, and oil and 

gas leasing availability are mapped for each alternative analyzed in detail. These maps, along 

with the narrative descriptions contained in this Appendix are the basis for describing the key 

choices made in each alternative and displaying important differences between the alternatives. 

The set of maps for each alternative are best understood by first reviewing the standardized 

categories and descriptions that go with each map legend. This FEIS Appendix- D provides 

detailed descriptions of the categories. The maps and their accompanying descriptions for the 

selected Alternative (7) are a key part of the Revised Forest Plan.

Relationships between Map Layers 

The Forestwide Management Direction for this FEIS and the Revised Forest Plan includes

multiple map layers with accompanying definitions and management direction. The primary 

maps are Management Prescription (MP), Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS), Winter 

Recreation (WR), and the Scenery Management System (SMS). Management Prescriptions 

define the primary allowable land use with the other three maps further defining other intended 

management for a given land area. In most instances the four map layers are compatible by 

design. However, in the instance of a conflict between direction for a Management Prescription 

and any of the three other layers, the Management Prescription takes precedence. If site-specific 

analysis identifies a conflict, the Forest Plan Maps may need to be amended to bring the other 

layers into consistency with the overlying Management Prescriptions. In addition there are 

Transmission Corridor maps that do not vary by Alternative tied to Forestwide Guideline 82, and 

Oil and Gas Leasing maps that do vary by Alternative for the North Slope Uinta Mountains.

Management Prescription Categories 

Management Prescriptions are defined as “management practices and intensity selected and 

scheduled for application on a specific area to attain multiple-use and other goals and 

objectives.” Management Prescription Categories are intended to provide a general sense of the 

management or treatment of the land intended to result in a particular condition being achieved 

or set of values being restored or maintained. These categories were developed based on 

experience and learning from the original development of Forest Plans in the 1980’s. In more 
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Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 2 

recent times, especially as issues that cross boundaries or involve very large land areas have 

arisen, the need for improving consistency across multiple national forests was identified. In the 

1993 Intermountain Region Desk Guide for plan revision, a menu of Management Prescription 

Categories was provided to address the need for consistency while allowing each planning team 

to develop prescriptions within the categories, meeting specific needs of that Forest. The 

original Categories were revised in 1998 forming the basis for further refinement and mapping 

contained in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest Proposed Action for Forest Plan Revision, 

September 1999. These have been further refined during the process of developing this FEIS. 

Each Management Prescription provides a listing of allowed activities as well as identification of 

special factors based on the goals and needs or opportunities in an area. Each Category identifies 

emphasis and focus, highlighting considerations that must be included in the harmonious and 

coordinated management of the various resources there, without impairment of the productivity 

of the land, with consideration being given to the relative values of the various resources, etc. 

consistent with the definition of multiple-use. Prescriptions are meant to identify the 

tools/activities that can be used to achieve objectives. Emphasis as used in these Prescriptions 

is defined as focus or highlighting, not exclusive or “dominant” use. In the event of a 

conflict between uses, resolution will be based on the specific merits of the situation rather 

than assuming that the Prescription implies a “trumping” of one resource over another. 

The entire Management Direction Package for the area must be considered, not just the 

Prescription. 

Consistency of Prescriptions with Multiple-Use and Other Laws 

The Multiple-Use Sustained-Yield Act of 1960 defines the term “multiple-use” to mean: the 

management of all the various renewable surface resources of the National Forests so that they 

are utilized in the combination that will best meet the needs of the American people; making the 

most judicious use of the land for some or all of these resources or related services over areas 

large enough to provide sufficient latitude for periodic adjustments in use to conform to changing 

needs and conditions; that some lands will be used for less than all of the resources; and 

harmonious and coordinated management of the various resources, each with the other, without 

impairment of the productivity of the land, with consideration being given to the relative values 

of the various resources, and not necessarily the combination of uses that will give the greatest 

dollar return or the greatest unit output.” (P.L. 86-517, 74 Stat.215; 16 U.S.C. 528(note), 528-

531, Sec. 4. (a). 

Highlighting of considerations through emphasis in a Prescription Category may also be based 

on needs and opportunities tied to other key laws that guide and direct management of the 

National Forests. Some of these include the Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources 

Planning Act, National Forest Management Act of 1976, Clean Water Act, Clean Air Act, 

Wilderness Act, Endangered Species Act of 1973, Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, Mining and 

Minerals Policy Act of 1970, National Environmental Policy Act, National Historic Preservation 

Act, North American Wetlands Conservation Act, and the Intermodal Surface Transportation 

Efficiency Act of 1991 (Scenic Byways Program and Symms National Recreational Trails Act of 

1991). For example Prescription Category 2 has subcategories directly tied to the Wild and 

Scenic Rivers Act. 
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Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 3 

Another important aspect of the Multiple-Use Act as well as the Forest and Rangeland 

Renewable Resources Planning Act and National Forest Management Act is the need for 

periodic adjustments to conform to changing needs and conditions. The monitoring components 

of the Forest Plan are designed to surface indicators of needs for change and to initiate actions to 

adjust management. 

As described above, the Prescription Categories are not intended to stand-alone. They are one 

part of the Management Direction Package that also includes goals, objectives, desired future 

conditions, standards, guidelines, implementation direction, and monitoring and evaluation 

requirements. Where an activity is allowed in the Prescription, the standards and guidelines 

provide specific parameters within which the activity must be managed. 

MPC maps of alternatives can be found in the Map Packets. 

Allowed Activities Table Heading Explanations 

(See Table of Allowed Activities for each Alternative in Chapter 2 of the FEIS.) 

Timber Harvest refers to commercial removal of vegetation for a variety of purposes including 

providing raw wood materials, improving wildlife habitat, adjusting age class distribution to 

mimic historic disturbance regimes, providing fire-resistant landscapes and commercial thinning. 

Vegetation/Fuel Treatment refers to a host of activities including, thinning, seeding; planting; 

mechanical treatments such as cutting by hand with chainsaws, cutting using tracked eqiupment 

or equipment on wheels for roller-chopping, chaining, crushing, or chipping; chemical 

application; and biological treatments (i.e., specialized grazing regimes). These are methods 

used to achieve a broad range of multiple-use objectives including maintaining or restoring 

healthy ecosystems, reducing likelihood of unwanted wildfire, removing public safety hazards, 

reducing potential for high-intensity wildfires and resulting erosion, improving forage or browse 

production, restoring native plant communities, improving or restoring watersheds, and 

providing for specific elements of terrestrial or aquatic wildlife habitats. 

Prescribed Fire refers to any fire ignited by management actions to meet specific objectives. A 

written, approved presribed fire plan must exist, and site-specific NEPA analysis requirements 

must be met prior to ignition. Prescribed fire plans are docments prepared by qualified 

personnel, approved by the agency administrator, and include criteria for the conditions under 

which the fire will be conducted (a prescription). Prescribed fire activities include actuallly 

lighting a fire using a fire accelerant with ground or aviation equipment and personnel; and may 

include the following: removal or piling of vegetation to secure perimeter lines, clearing areas 

for helicopter operations, clearing holding lines to bare mineral soil using hand tools or heavy 

eqiupment (i.e., bull dozers), using fire resistant foam or water on holding lines, constructing 

temporary camps for base operations, using aviation resources for fire retardant or water drops to 

reduce high-intensity fire behavior, closing areas to livestock grazing before and after burning, 

and closing roads and areas to the public before and after burning. 
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Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 4 

Wildland Fire Use is the management of naturally ignited wildland fires to accomplish specific 

prestated resource management objectives in predefined geographic areas outlined in the Fire 

Management Plan. The term does not include fires that are human-caused (either accidental or 

arson) that are considered unwanted wildland fires and that must be suppressed. It also does not 

include the use of those fires that are management ignited, referred to as prescribed fires. Use of 

wildland fire requires a Wildland Fire Implementation Plan which is a progressively developed 

assessment and operational management plan that documents the analysis and selection of 

strategies and describes the appropriate management response for a wildland fire being managed 

for resource benefits. 

Road Construction refers to activity that results in the addition of forest classified or temporary 

road miles. Road is defined as a motor vehicle travelway over 50 inches wide, unless designated 

and managed as a trail. A road may be classified, unclassified, or temporary. (FSM 7705) 

Note: Where road construction is not allowed by a Management Prescription the responsible 

official may authorize road construction or reconstruction when: 

a. A road is needed to protect public health and safety in cases of an imminent threat of flood, 

fire, or other catastrophic event, that without intervention would cause the loss of life or 

property; 

b. A road is needed to conduct a response action under the Comprehensive Environmental 

Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) or to conduct a natural restoration action 

under CERCLA, section 3d11 of the Clean Water Act, or Oil Pollution Act; 

c. A road is needed pursuant to reserved or outstanding rights, or as provided by statute or 

treaty; or 

d. Realignment is needed to prevent irreparable resource damage by a classified road. The road 

must be deemed essential for public or private access, natural resource management, or public 

health and safety, and the resource damage associated with the road cannot be corrected by 

maintenance. 

New Trail Construction refers to development of any “pathway for foot, horse, or trail vehicles 

“(bikes, scooters, snomobiles, and all terrain vehicles[ motorized OHV 50” or less]) FSM 

2305.05, WO Amendment 2300-94-3, 7/8/94, pg. 8-9. and FSH 2309.18 WO Amendment 

2309.18-91-2, 11//8/91 pg. 1-2). To determine whether a trail is open to motorized or 

mechanized uses refer to District Travel Management Plans. 

Note: In Prescriptions where new trail construction is not allowed, reconstruction and/or 

realignment to correct resource impacts from existing trails is allowed. 

Grazing refers to grazing of forage by permitted livestock managed under an approved 

Allotment Management Plan and terms of a livestock grazing permit. Forestwide and 

management prescription standards and guidelines provide direction for grazing management 

until site-specific desired conditions and/or objectives can be developed. Grazing may also 

include use of livestock under contract to reduce fuels. 

 
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Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 5 

New Recreation Development refers to major structural public use facilities such as campgrounds and 

trailheads. It does not refer to construction within already established developed recreation sites. 

Trails and single restrooms are not considered recreation development for these descriptions. 

Summary of Management Prescription Categories 

1.0 Wilderness

 1.1 Existing Wilderness - Opportunity Class I 

1.2 Existing Wilderness - Opportunity Class II 

 1.3 Existing Wilderness - Opportunity Class III 

 1.4 Existing Wilderness - No Class 

1.5 Recommended Wilderness 

2.0 Special Management Areas

 2.1-2.3 Wild, Scenic, and Recreational Rivers (not used on revision maps) 

 2.4 Research Natural Areas 

 2.5 Scenic Byways 

 2.6 Undeveloped Areas 

2.7 Special Interest Areas and Special Areas 

3.0 Protection, Maintenance or Restoration of Aquatic/Watershed or Terrestrial Integrity 

 3.1 Aquatic Habitat/Watershed Emphasis (a- Aquatic, w- Watershed) 

 3.2 Terrestrial Habitat Emphasis (d- Development allowed, - Undeveloped). 

4.0 Multiple Resource Uses With Recreation Needs and Opportunities

 4.1 Emphasis on Backcountry non-motorized recreation settings. 

 4.2 Emphasis on Dispersed non-motorized recreation settings. 

 4.3 Emphasis on Backcountry Motorized recreation settings 

 4.4 Emphasis on Dispersed Motorized recreation settings. 

 4.5 Emphasis on Developed Recreation Areas 

5.0 Multiple Resource Uses With Forested Vegetation Management Needs and Opportunities

5.1 Emphasis on maintaining or restoring forested ecosystem integrity while meeting multiple 

 resource objectives. 

5.2 Emphasis on managing timber for growth and yield while maintaining or restoring forested 

 ecosystem integrity. 

6.0 Multiple Resource Uses With Rangeland Vegetation Management Needs and Opportunities

6.1 Emphasis on maintaining or restoring non-forested ecosystem integrity while meeting 

multiple resource objectives. 

6.2 Emphasis on managing for livestock forage production while maintaining or restoring 

non-forested ecosystem integrity . 
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Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 6 

7.0 Intermingled Public/Private Lands (This prescription accompanied one of the other 

prescriptions in earlier versions. It has been eliminated because it made maps difficult to 

read and because private lands are already shown clearly on the maps.)

8.0 Concentrated Development Areas 

8.1 Mineral Development Emphasis 

Management Prescription Categories

1.0 - Wilderness

Theme 

This prescription includes areas designated by Congress as Wilderness and areas recommended 

by the Forest Service for Wilderness designation. Management emphasis is on maintaining 

wilderness attributes, including natural appearance, natural integrity, opportunities for solitude, 

opportunities for primitive recreation, and any identified special features. 

Although the theme for management prescription category 1 is wilderness, multiple-use means 

the harmonious and coordinated management of a variety of resources, without impairment of 

the productivity of the land. The Forest-wide standards and guidelines, as well as any 

management direction developed specifically for this prescription category, provide the limits or 

constraints to guide this coordinated management. As long as other allowed (see table of 

Allowed Activities in each Alternative) resource activities, such as livestock grazing or fire use, 

meet the direction in the standards and guidelines, then they are consistent with the Wilderness 

and Recommended Wilderness prescription categories. 

Each designated Wilderness Area may have a management plan developed to provide additional 

direction specific to that area. At the time of this revision only one, the High Uintas 

Wilderness, has such a management plan. 

Management Emphasis You Will See 

The area is managed to allow natural processes to prevail in adherence with the 1964 Wilderness 

Act and the 1984 Utah Wilderness Act. Timber harvest, vegetation treatment, road building, 

new recreation development, and new trail construction are not allowed within these 

prescriptions. Grazing and wildland fire use are allowed. Prescribed fire is allowed in these 

prescriptions in some FEIS Alternatives but not in others. 

1.1 Existing Wilderness - Opportunity Class I 

1.2 Existing Wilderness - Opportunity Class II 

1.3 Existing Wilderness - Opportunity Class III 

1.4 Existing Wilderness - No Class 

1.5 Recommended Wilderness 
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Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 7 

1.1 Opportunity Class I: This area in existing wilderness is characterized by an unmodified 

natural environment. Human induced change is temporary and minor. Outstanding 

opportunities for solitude and unconfined recreation are available for visitors, who travel in small 

groups, practice excellent wilderness ethics and spend extra effort to leave no trace. Encounters 

with others are rare. 

1.2 Opportunity Class II: This area in existing wilderness is characterized by predominately 

unmodified natural environment. Human induced change is evident but will recover (slowly in 

higher elevation areas). Outstanding opportunities for solitude and unconfined recreation exist. 

Encounters with others are more frequent than Class I. 

1.3 Opportunity Class III: This area in existing wilderness is characterized by predominately 

unmodified natural environment, but impacts could persist from year to year. During peak season 

and in popular areas concentrated use is more common and opportunities for solitude and 

unconfined recreation more limited. 

1.4 Existing Wilderness - No Class Assigned: This area in existing wilderness is managed 

within the intent of the Wilderness Act but with no delineation of opportunity class or 

recognition of varying levels of opportunities for solitude available (used only in the No action 

Alternative 4) 

1.5 Recommended Wilderness: These are areas recommended for wilderness. They were 

identified through the Forest Plan revision roadless area inventory, evaluation and 

recommendation process. This analysis is required by the National Forest Management Act 

(NFMA) planning regulations and the 1984 Utah Wilderness Act. Congress retains the final 

authority for designating wilderness areas. For areas recommended as wilderness, wilderness 

characteristics must be protected until Congress takes final action (FSH 1909.12,7.31). These 

areas are managed to maintain the characteristics qualifying them as capable and available for 

wilderness recommendation. Existing use of snowmobiles is allowed in Alternative 7; this 

activity must not result in long-term changes to the wilderness character. 

 

2.0 – Special Management Areas 

Theme

This prescription includes areas that have been or will be administratively or Congressionally 

designated for the conservation of specific values. These areas are Wild and Scenic Rivers and 

their corridors, Research Natural Areas, Forest Service Scenic Byways, Special Interest Areas 

and Specially Designated Trails. Management emphasis is on maintaining, enhancing, or 

restoring those values for which the area was established or designated. 

Although the theme for management prescription category 2 is special management areas, 

multiple-use means the harmonious and coordinated management of a variety of resources, 

without impairment of the productivity of the land. The Forest-wide standards and guidelines, as 

well as any management direction developed specifically for this prescription category, the limits 

or constraints to guide this coordinated management. As long as other allowed (see table of 
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Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 8 

Allowed Activities in each Alternative) resource activities, such as livestock grazing, fire use, or 

road construction meet the direction in the standards and guidelines, then they are consistent with 

the Special Management Area prescription category. 

Management Emphasis You Will See 

2.1 - 2.3 Wild and Scenic Rivers: Wild (2.1), Scenic (2.2), and Recreational (2.3) Rivers 

include land corridors that extend 1/4 mile from each bank. Rivers and their corridors found 

suitable as additions to the Wild and Scenic Rivers System are managed to protect their freeflowing waters and existing or potential outstandingly remarkable values. Suitability 

determination is not part of decisions being made in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest Plan 

Revision. These Prescription numbers will not be used until such time as suitability work is 

completed, however eligible segments will be managed according to standards included in the 

Proposed Forest Plan. See Appendix VIII of the Revised Forest Plan. 

2.4 Research Natural Areas: Manage existing and proposed Research Natural Areas to protect 

their unique and/or representative qualities. Vegetation treatment and fire use is limited to 

circumstances where these activities help perpetuate the unique and/or representative ecosystem. 

Limit human-induced effects as much as possible for the purpose of using the ecotype as a 

benchmark from which to measure human-induced effects elsewhere. 

Each designated Research Natural Area may have a management plan developed to provide 

additional direction specific to that area. At the time of this revision no RNA’s have 

management plans. 

2.5 Scenic Byways: Manage Scenic Byways to protect and maintain their outstanding scenic 

quality. Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plans may be developed for each designated 

Byway. Timber harvest is not allowed. Vegetation and fuels treatments are limited to 

circumstances where these activities are necessary to maintain or enhance the scenic setting. 

Grazing and wildland fire use are allowed. Allowance of prescribed fire, road construction, new 

recreation development and new trail construction varies by alternative in the FEIS. 

2.6 Undeveloped Areas: Manage to protect undeveloped landscapes in a manner other than 

formal recommended wilderness. Although other uses and activities may occur, the primary 

emphasis is protection to assure the values and unique qualities associated with undeveloped 

areas are recognized and preserved. No new development or activities that would alter the 

landscape or character are allowed, however use of motorized equipment (such as chainsaws for 

trail clearing) is allowed. 

Public use of motorized vehicles in non-snow seasons within this prescription is based on open 

designated routes shown on District Travel Management Plans. In winter, allowance for 

motorized use varies by alternative in the FEIS (See maps of Winter Recreation opportunities). 

Timber harvest, road construction, new recreation development, and new trail construction are 

not allowed. Grazing, prescribed fire and wildland fire use are allowed however mechanical fuel 

treatments are not allowed. Vegetation treatment is limited to fire use intended to mimic 

conditions within the historic range of variability. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 9 

 

2.7 Special Interest Areas and Special Areas: Manage to protect particular values or unique 

qualities of special interest. The intent for Special Interest Areas is “to protect and, where 

appropriate, foster public use and enjoyment of areas with scenic, historical, geological, 

botanical, zoological, palentological, or other special characteristics. To classify areas that 

possess unusual recreation and scientific values so that these special values are available for 

public study, use, or enjoyment” (FSM 2360.2). The intent for Special Areas are: “To protect 

and manage for public use and enjoyment, special recreation areas with scenic, geological, 

botanical, zoological, paleontological, archaeological, or other special characteristics or uniques 

values.” (FSM2372.02) 

 

Special Interest and Special Areas may have management plans developed to address specific 

needs and opportunities for the individual area. Currently there are no designated special areas 

in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest. 

Timber harvest, road construction, and new recreation development are not allowed. 

Vegetation/fuels treatments and prescribed or wildland fire use are allowed in circumstances 

where these activities help perpetuate the unique ecosystem. New trail construction is allowed if 

associated with resource interpretation and public study, use, or enjoyment. Allow manipulative 

restoration where needed for scientific study and increased public understanding of the unique 

values of the area. 

3.0 Multiple Resource Uses where Aquatic/Watershed and 

Terrestrial Habitat Integrity are emphasized

Theme

This prescription includes lands where management emphasis is on maintaining or restoring 

aquatic/watershed and terrestrial habitat integrity. Integrity refers to the degree to which the 

elements of habitat and the ecosystem functions that link them together and sustain habitat values 

are complete and capable of performing desired functions. Although other uses and activities are 

allowed, the primary management needs and opportunities are to provide high quality watershed 

conditions, fish and aquatic habitats, and wildlife habitats that allow proper functioning of 

ecosystems and sustain biological diversity and population viability. Commodity production is 

allowed as part of management activities designed to improve or maintain aquatic habitats, 

watershed conditions and terrestrial habitats. 

Although the theme for management prescription category 3 is aquatic/watershed and terrestrial 

habitat integrity, multiple-use means the harmonious and coordinated management of a variety of 

resources, without impairment of the productivity of the land. The Forest-wide standards and 

guidelines, as well as any management direction developed specifically for this prescription category, 

provide the limits or constraints to guide this coordinated management. As long as other allowed (see 

Table of Allowed Activities for each Alternative) resource activities, such as livestock grazing, fire 

use, or road construction meet the direction in the standards and guidelines, then they are consistent 

with the habitat integrity prescription category. 
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Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 10 

Management Emphasis You Will See

Emphasis is on protection, maintenance, and/or restoration of quality aquatic habitats, watershed 

conditions, and terrestrial habitats. This prescription can include areas where resource and 

habitat values are not at desired conditions and need to be actively restored. It also can include 

areas where these values are at desired conditions and need to be conserved. Other uses and 

activities are allowed provided they can be conducted within the standards and guidelines. 

Grazing by livestock is allowed as managed to meet standards and guidelines which support 

desired hydrologic, aquatic, and terrestrial conditions. 

The importance of these areas is for meeting mid to long-term watershed and habitat objectives, 

with the strategy of taking a low to moderate risk approach to managing for biodiverrsity and 

population viability this planning period (10-15 years). The tools associated with this 

prescription are of moderate intensity and can provide for improvement of existing conditions 

through natural processes and moderate management activities. Management activities are 

designed to pose low risk of sediment delivery and low risk of adversely affecting the hydrologic 

regime, riparian areas, and important terrestrial habitat. 

3.1 - Aquatic Habitat(3.1A)/Watershed (3.1W)Emphasis: Emphasis is on maintaining or 

improving quality of watershed conditions and aquatic habitats. The watershed function and 

aquatic habitat values are recognized as important and may require restoration to reach desired 

conditions. Areas of municipal watershed and public drinking water sources will be managed 

to maintain or improve soil processes and watershed conditions. Where improvement is needed, 

it is achieved by implementing watershed improvement projects, and by applying soil and water 

conservation practices to land-disturbing activities. Improve or maintain these lands to meet 

desired conditions of habitat for species at risk. 

3.1A consists of the stream and adjacent riparian areas. Allowance for timber harvest , 

vegetation/fuels treatments, prescribed fire, road construction, wildland fire use, new recreation 

development, and new trail construction varies by alternative in the FEIS. Livestock grazing is 

allowed with the utilization standard for Riparian Class 1. 

3.1W consists of uplands identified as important watersheds. Allowance for timber harvest , 

vegetation/fuels treatments, prescribed fire, road construction, wildland fire use, new recreation 

development, and new trail construction varies by alternative in the FEIS. Livestock grazing is 

allowed in open allotments. 

3.2 Terrestrial Habitat Emphasis: (U- Undeveloped, D- Development allowed) Manage 

upland habitats to provide for sustaining and/or recovering plant and animal species and/or 

communities. Improve or maintain lands to meet desired conditions of habitat for threatened, 

endangered, and sensitive species. Considerations for these areas include corridors for seasonal 

migrations as well as movement of genetic materials, individuals, and populations; vegetation 

composition, structure, and pattern needed for all life cycle stages; control or eradication of 

undesirable non-native species; and protection of special habitats. 
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Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 11 

3.2U consists of those terrestrial habitat areas where development including timber harvest, road 

construction, new recreation developments, new trail construction, is not allowed because of 

potential impacts to key habitat elements. Vegetation/fuels treatments, prescribed and wildland 

fire use are allowed to maintain or restore habitat elements. Grazing of livestock is allowed. 

3.2D consists of those terrestrial habitat areas where timber harvest and road construction as well 

as vegetation/fuels treatments, and prescribed and wildland fire use are allowed to maintain or 

restore habitat. Roads may be temporary based on site-specific analysis. Allowance for new 

recreation development and new trail construction varies by alternative in the FEIS. Livestock 

grazing is allowed. 

4.0 – Multiple Resource Uses with Receration Needs and Opportunities

Theme 

This prescription includes lands managed with special consideration for dispersed and developed 

recreation. Recreation needs and opportunities are emphasized is these areas. A wide spectrum of 

recreational settings may be provided. Facilities are constructed and maintained, and areas for 

non-winter motorized and non-motorized recreation opportunities are designated. Winter 

Recreation Allocations are displayed on separate maps. For snowmobiling, heli-skiing and nonmotorized winter opportunities, see these maps. Landscape elements may be altered by human 

activities and developments. Recreation as well as other uses, are managed to ensure 

maintenance of watershed functions including water quality. The prescription subcategories 

(4.1-4.5) are based primarily on differences in recreation activities and settings. These include 

1) access, 2) remoteness, 3) naturalness, 4) level of facilities and site management, 5) social 

encounters, and 6) visitor impacts and management. 

Although the theme for management prescription category 4 is recreation settings and opportunities, 

multiple-use means the harmonious and coordinated management of a variety of resources, without 

impairment of the productivity of the land. The Forest-wide standards and guidelines, as well as any 

management direction developed specifically for this prescription category, provide the limits or 

constraints to guide this coordinated management. As long as other allowed (see Table of Generally 

Allowed Activities in each Alternative) resource activities, such as livestock grazing, fire use, or road 

construction meet the direction in the standards and guidelines, then they are consistent with the 

recreation prescription category. 

Frequently used terms include the following: 

Dispersed recreation is recreation activities that occur outside developed sites (such as 

campgrounds) within general forest areas such as hiking, horseback riding, ATV riding, or 

camping (outside developed campgrounds). ADA stands for the Americans with Disabilities Act 

and refers to facilities that accommodate people with disabilities, primarily wheelchair accessible 

sites and facilities. Management techniques refers to those tools and techniques the Forest 

Service can use to direct or manage people, such as defining and hardening (altering vegetation 

and access into) sites, putting up physical barriers such as large boulders to prevent undesired 

parking, or issuing area closures or implementing a permit system in a certain area. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 12 

Areas not mapped with 4. Prescriptions have recreation management guidance from the 

Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS) allocation map which includes Classes that describe 

physical setting and activities range along a scale from a natural evolving environment and high 

degree of solitude to most evidence of humans and most social interactions. The classes in the 

Spectrum are: Wilderness/Primitive, Wilderness/Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized (Mapped as

Wilderness and/or Proposed Wilderness), Semi-Primitive Non-Motorized, Semi-Primitive 

Motorized, Roaded Natural, Rural, and Urban. 

Management Emphasis You Will See 

4.1 Emphasis on Backcountry Non-motorized Settings: These areas provide recreation 

opportunities in remote and isolated settings where visitors can obtain a high degree of solitude 

and the environment is in a near-natural state. Access within these areas is through the use of 

non-motorized trails. Sights and sounds of others are minimal. Visitors will largely be managed 

off-site, with signs and regulations posted at area boundaries. Recreation site development is 

limited to those of a semi-primitive nature with regulation of use a priority management tool 

over site-hardening. The need for visitor self-reliance is high. Management visibility is low 

with backcountry ranger patrols focusing on monitoring and maintaining natural conditions and 

processes. ADA level development is not accommodated. 

Livestock grazing and wildland fire use are allowed. Timber harvest, road construction, and new 

recreation development are not allowed. Allowance for vegetation/fuels treatments, prescribed 

fire, and new trail constuction varies by alternative in the FEIS. Where vegetation/fuels 

treatments and prescribed fire are allowed, the purpose is to mimic historic conditions and to 

restore ecosystem functioning. 

4.2 Emphasis on Dispersed Non-motorized Settings: These areas provide recreation 

opportunities in a semi-primitive to modified setting where visitors can obtain various degrees of 

solitude within a near-natural environment. Access to the perimeter of these areas may be 

motorized, but travel within the area is non-motorized. Sights and sounds of others may be 

noticeable. Visitors can expect various levels of regulation. Signs and other information are 

found both at portals and within the prescription area. Recreation site development is less 

limited than in backcountry and can range from semi-primitive to rural depending on 

management objectives at specific areas and visitors' desires for convenience. Impacts to natural 

resources, such as soil compaction or loss of vegetation are dealt with through various 

management techniques and regulations. Some development accommodating ADA standards 

may be appropriate. 

Livestock grazing and wildland fire use are allowed. Timber harvest and road construction are 

not allowed. Allowance for vegetation/fuels treatments, prescribed fire, new recreation 

development and new trail construction varies by alternative in the FEIS. Where 

vegetation/fuels treatments and prescribed fire are allowed, the purpose is to mimic historic 

conditions and to restore ecosystem functioning. 

4.3 Emphasis on Backcountry Motorized Settings: These areas provide recreation 

opportunities in a more remote and isolated setting where visitors can obtain a higher degree of 
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Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 13 

solitude and the environment is in a near-natural setting. Access to and within these areas is 

primarily through the use of motorized trails and roads. Sights of other visitors are low and 

sounds of other users are low to moderate. Visitors are largely managed off-site, with signs and 

regulations posted at area boundaries. Site development is of a semi-primitive nature with 

regulation of use a priority management tool over site modification. Visitor self-reliance is high. 

Management visibility is low with backcountry ranger patrols focusing on monitoring and 

maintaining natural conditions and processes. ADA level development is not accommodated. 

Livestock grazing and wildland fire use are allowed. Allowance for timber harvest, 

vegetation/fuels treatments, prescribed fire, road construction, new recreation development, and 

new trail construction varies by alternative in the FEIS. Where these activities are allowed they 

must be compatible with the backcountry recreation opportunity and natural setting desired. 

4.4 Emphasis on Dispersed Motorized Settings: These areas provide recreation opportunities 

within a range of semi-primitive to rural settings. Visitors may be able to obtain a moderate 

degree of solitude, but this prescription area provides opportunities for increased social 

interaction. Access to and within these areas is primarily through the use of motorized trails and 

roads. Sights and sounds of others may be noticeable throughout the area. Recreation site 

developments range from semi-primitive to rural depending on management objectives at 

specific areas and visitor desires for convenience. Impacts to natural resources are dealt with 

through various management techniques and regulations. Some development to ADA standards 

may be appropriate. 

Livestock grazing and wildland fire use are allowed. Allowance for timber harvest, 

vegetation/fuels treatments, prescribed fire, road construction, new recreation development, and 

new trail construction varies by alternative in the FEIS. Where these are allowed they must not 

detract from the recreation setting. They should be designed to facilitate the motorized recreation 

opportunity desired if possible. 

4.5 Developed Recreation Areas: These areas include developed facilities such as 

campgrounds, trailheads, boat docks, and resorts as well as adjacent areas associated with these 

sites. High levels of visitor interaction can be expected where sights and sounds of others are 

noticeable and there are moderate to high opportunities for social interaction. Access to these 

areas is primarily by motorized roads. Visitors can expect higher levels of regulation. Signs and 

visitor information are noticeable throughout the area. Site development tends toward the 

Roaded Natural to Rural end of the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS). Facilities vary 

from rustic using native materials to facilities designed primarily for visitor comfort or 

convenience and built using synthetic materials. Visitor impacts are noticeable. Impacts to 

natural resources are dealt with through various management techniques and regulations. ADA 

level development is encouraged. Because of the large capitol investments in these areas, site 

protection is paramount. 

 

Livestock grazing, timber harvest, and wildland fire use are not allowed. Allowance for 

vegetation/fuels treatments, prescribed fire, road construction, new recreation development, and 

new trail construction varies by alternative in the FEIS. Activities allowed are limited to those 

that provide public enjoyment, safety and protection of site investments. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 14 

5.0 - Multiple Resource Uses with Forestland Vegetation Management Needs 

and Opportunities

Theme

This prescription includes lands that are predominantly forested. Emphasis is on maintaining and 

restoring forest ecosystem functioning to achieve sustainable resource conditions, while 

providing favorable conditions for commodity and non-commodity outputs and services. 

Although the theme for management prescription category 5 is forestland vegetation, multipleuse means the harmonious and coordinated management of a variety of resources, without 

impairment of the productivity of the land. The Forest-wide standards and guidelines, as well as 

any management direction developed specifically for this prescription category, provide the 

limits or constraints to guide this coordinated management. As long as other allowed (see Table 

of Allowed Activities in each alternative) resource activities, such as recreation, livestock 

grazing, aquatic habitat restoration or road construction, meet the direction in the standards and 

guidelines, then they are consistent with the forestland prescription category. 

Frequently used terms include the following: 

Sustainability is the ability to maintain a desired condition or flow of benefits over time. The 

ecosystem management principle of sustainability implies our ability to define and measure 

where ecosystems are now as compared to their historic range of variability. The concept of 

“historic range” recognizes that ecosystems are dynamic in nature and that disturbance and 

change is a common component. Areas that are within their historic range of variability are said 

to be in proper functioning condition. 

Management Emphasis You Will See 

5.1 Emphasis on maintaining or restoring forested ecosystem integrity while meeting 

multiple resource objectives. 

Emphasis is on properly functioning conditions. Livestock grazing and wildland fire use are 

allowed. Allowance for timber harvest, vegetation/fuels treatments, prescribed fire, road 

construction, new recreation developments and new trail construction varies by alternative in the 

FEIS. Emphasis is not on timber growth and yield. Instead it is on maintaining or restoring 

vegetation composition, structure and patterns within the historic range of variability. 

5.2 Emphasis on managing timber for growth and yield while maintaining or restoring 

forested ecosystem integrity. 

Emphasis is on timber growth and yield. Forested landscapes range in appearance from near 

natural to altered where management activities are evident. Goods and services are provided 

within the productive capacity of the land, and ecological functions are maintained. The quantity 

of goods and services produced may or may not fully meet demand. Amenity values are provided 

for by management area direction. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 15 

Timber harvest and road construction are allowed. Allowance for prescribed and wildland fire 

use varies by alternative in the FEIS. Investments made in these areas for timber production, 

such as road systems and silvicultural improvements, and the value of the timber for wood 

production receive consideration prior to the use of fire. Roads are compatible with timber 

growth and yield management objectives. Livestock grazing is allowed but considers the need for 

timber regeneration and is compatible with timber management objectives. Allowance for new 

recreation development and new trail construction varies by alternative in the FEIS. Where 

allowed, these may be limited to the degree they are compatible with commercial timber 

production. In other words, timber harvest in these areas will not be restricted because of 

recreation development or trail construction. 

6.0 - Multiple Resource Uses with Rangeland Vegetation Management Needs 

and Opportunities

Theme

This prescription includes lands that are predominantly non-forested. Management focuses on 

non-forest vegetation composition, structure, and pattern to achieve properly functioning 

conditions while providing sustainable commodity and non-commodity outputs, values and 

services. 

Although the theme for management prescription category 6 is rangeland vegetation, multipleuse means the harmonious and coordinated management of a variety of resources, without 

impairment of the productivity of the land. The Forest-wide standards and guidelines, as well as 

any management direction developed specifically for this prescription category, provide the 

limits or constraints to guide this coordinated management. As long as other allowed (see table 

of Allowed Activities in each Alternative) resource activities such as recreation, fire use, aquatic 

habitat restoration or road construction, meet the direction in the standards and guidelines, then 

they are consistent with the rangeland prescription category. 

Management Emphasis You Will See 

6.1 Emphasis on maintaining or restoring non-forested ecosystem integrity while meeting multiple 

resource objectives.

Emphasis is on non-forested vegetation properly functioning conditions (i.e. vegetation 

composition, structure and patterns within the historic range of variability). Management 

encompasses the full range of land and resource treatment activities. Allowance for timber 

harvest, prescribed fire, road construction, new recreation development and new trail 

construction varies by alternative in the FEIS. Vegetation/fuels treatments, wildland fire use, and 

grazing are allowed. Forage production for livestock use is managed to also meet desired 

conditions for wildlife, riparian, water quality, or other objectives. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 16 

6.2 Emphasis on managing for livestock forage production while maintaining or restoring 

non-forested ecosystem integrity. 

Emphasis is on managing vegetation composition and structure to produce forage for livestock. 

Livestock use is managed to ensure that rangelands are in satisfactory condition and/or with an 

upward trend. Goods and services are provided within the productive capacity of the land, and 

ecological functions are maintained. Non-forested landscapes range in appearance from near 

natural to altered where management activities are evident. The quantity of goods and services 

produced may or may not fully meet demand. Amenity values are provided for by management 

area direction. Allowance for timber harvest, prescribed fire, road building and new recreation 

development varies by alternative. Allowance for timber harvest, prescribed fire, road 

construction, new recreation development and new trail construction varies by alternative in the 

FEIS. Vegetation/fuels treatments, wildland fire use, and grazing are allowed. Where allowed, 

new recreation development and trail construction may be limited to the degree it is compatible 

with livestock grazing. In other words, livestock grazing will not be restricted because of 

recreation development. 

7.0 – Intermingled Public/Private Lands

Theme

This prescription addressed National Forest System lands that are intermingled with lands owned 

or managed by others. Prescription Categories 7.1 and 7.2 (Intermingled Public/Private Lands, 

Rural or Urban) that were originally used in conjunction with other prescription numbers have 

been removed from the maps. The purpose of these prescriptions was to highlight the special 

need for coordinated land management with private landowners. However, the extra numbers 

made the maps difficult to read and since private lands are shown in gray on the maps this 

purpose can be met without the 7.1 and 7.2 prescriptions. Management emphasis is to cooperate 

with adjacent landowners in managing for diverse interests. 

Management Emphasis You Will See 

Areas with intermingled private lands (shown in gray on Maps) in an urban or town 

interface will be managed with the following considerations: Emphasis is on protecting 

natural ecosystem components from degradation while allowing for high levels of day use. 

Trespass for extractive or construction activities will not be allowed. Access for recreation to the 

National Forest System lands will be kept open, and specific public access points will be 

identified to assure access as well as to limit resource degradation. Motorized recreation may be 

limited to the extent necessary to be compatible with adjacent owners' needs and management 

area objectives. Fire use is allowed only if adjacent private property will be protected from fire. 

Areas with intermingled private lands (shown in gray on Maps) in a rural interface will be 

managed with the following considerations: Emphasis is on protecting natural ecosystem 

components from degradation while allowing for moderate use. Trespass for extractive or 

construction activities will not be allowed. Access for recreation to the National Forest System 

lands will be kept open, and specific public access points will be identified to assure access as 

well as to limit resource degradation. Any grazing or timber activities will be carefully 
Final Environmental Impact Statement - Appendices 

 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest D1 - 17 

coordinated with adjacent owners. Motorized recreation may be limited to the extent necessary to 

be compatible with adjacent owners' needs and management area objectives. Fire use is allowed 

only if adjacent private property will be protected from fire. 

8.0 – Concentrated Development Areas

Theme

This prescription includes lands managed for concentrated development and use within a 

multiple use context. 

Management Emphasis You Will See

Uses and facility development dominate the landscape and often require extensive site 

alterations. Emphasis is on maintaining or restoring the existing facilities and uses. 

8.1 Features may include oil and gas production sites or other mineral development sites for 

common variety (saleable) minerals. Allowance for timber harvest, vegetation and fuels 

treatments, prescribed fire, new recreation development and new trail construction varies by 

alternative in the FEIS. Wildland fire use is not allowed. Road construction and grazing are 

allowed.