Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-1 

APPENDIX B - 2 

Terrestrial Wildlife Diversity and Viability 

Introduction/Background 

Diversity and viability of species are important factors that must be considered in Forest 

Plans. Their relationship and where they are covered in law and implementing 

regulations can be confusing. A draft of the “White Paper on Managing Viable 

Populations” (USDA 2000f) gives the following on diversity and viability and how they 

relate and are implemented in Forest Planning: 

“The National Forest Management Act (NFMA) and its implementing regulations 

require National Forests to provide habitat in order to “maintain viable 

populations of existing native and desired non-native vertebrate species in the 

planning area.” (36CFR219.19). Forest Service manual direction extends this 

mandate to include vascular plants. 

“The NFMA regulations define a viable population as “one which has the 

estimated numbers and distribution of reproductive individuals to insure its 

continued existence is well distributed in the planning area.” The regulations 

direct that “habitat must be provided to support, at least, a minimum number of 

reproductive individuals and that habitat must be well distributed so that those 

individuals can interact with others in the planning area.” The planning area is 

defined as the Forest Service lands included in the Forest Plan. 

“While NFMA regulations focus on species viability, the Act does not use the 

term “viability.” Rather, it directs that management of National Forests “provide 

for diversity of plant and animal communities based on the suitability and 

capability of the specific land area in order to meet overall multiple-use 

objectives.” (NFMA Sec.6 (g)(3)(B) ). Thus, the viability of individual species 

must be considered within the context of overall diversity of plant and animal 

species, and the multiple-use objectives for the planning area.” 

Neither NFMA nor the 1982 Planning Regulations give direction on how to address 

viability. The draft White Paper On Managing for Population Viability (USDA Forest 

Service, 2002f) the relationship of Forest Service Viability Evaluations to Population 

Viability (PVA) is discussed. Viability evaluations center on ecological sustainability 

while PVA is species specific. 

Our approach is based on changes in ecological characteristics of the landscape (e.g. 

ecosystem composition, structure and pattern rather than on demographic characteristics 

of individual species. Sufficient demographic information for assessing viability is not 

available for most species. An ecosystem, or coarse filter, approach is appropriate at 

Forest level scales. Such an approach is a recognized method for addressing issues of 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-2 

biodiversity, species-community relationships, and insuring the replication of habitats 

across the forest scale that will include historic ecosystem processes. Kaufmann et al. 

1994 states, “’The concept (coarse filter) assumes that a representative array of 

communities will contain the majority of species and that an array of cover types in an 

ecoregion will include the appropriate vegetation mosaic”. 

Ecological Context 

The Wasatch-Cache National Forest falls within two provinces and 3 sections as 

described in “Ecological Subregions of the United States: Section Descriptions” (McNab, 

1994). The majority of the Forest lies within the Southern Rocky Mountain Steppe – 

Open Woodland – Coniferous Forest – Alpine Meadow Province (Province M331). 

Within this province, Forest lands are included in two sections, the Overthrust Mountain 

(Section M331D) and the Uinta Mountains (Section M331E). The Stansbury Mountains 

fall in Section 341A (Bonneville Basin) of the Intermountain Semi-Desert and Desert 

Province. 

The Overthrust Mountain Section consists of the southern portion of the Bear River 

Range and the Wasatch Range. The section is made up of steep rugged mountains with 

narrow to broad valleys. Active fault lines still exist, especially on the Wasatch Range. 

Kuchler vegetation types include lodgepole pine-subalpine forest, and Douglas-fir forest 

with outer fringes of sagebrush steppe. Mountain mahogany-oak scrub surrounds 

Douglas-fir forest. Vegetation types depend on a combination of altitude, latitude, slope, 

exposure and prevailing winds. Apline tundra at the highest elevations come down to the 

subalpine zone with spruce-fir forests, the montane zone with ponderosa pine and 

Douglas-fir forests, and on down to the sagebrush type at the lower elevevations. Faunal 

species including bison, bighorn sheep, and large carnivors such as the gray wolf and 

grizzly bear have been extirpated from the Section due mostly to the activities of man. 

Bighorn sheep have since been reintroduced to some areas. Other fauna typical of the 

Section include elk, mule deer, moose, cougar, and black bear. Habitats within the 

Section support a diverse avifauna of migratory birds, waterfowl, and grouse species. 

There are also a variety of amphibians, reptiles, and invertebrates. 

The Uinta Mountain Section consists of the north and western slopes of the Uinta 

Mountain Range (the south and eastern slopes are administered by the Ashley National 

Forest). The Uintas were formed by an anticlinal uplift and are the largest east-west 

running range in the United States. Glacial processes have done much to form the 

present mountain range at higher elevations along with freezing, thawing, water erosion, 

and wind at all elevations. Vegetation types, from higher to lower elevations, include 

alpine tundra, Englemann spruce, spruce-fir, lodgepole pine, subalpine meadow, 

Douglas-fir, aspen, mountain big sagebrush, oak and mountain brush, pinyon-juniper, 

Wyoming big sagebrush, and desert shrub. The oak is generally found on the western 

portions of the range with pinyon-juniper and sagebrush steppe on the eastern portion. 

Big game animals include elk, mule deer, moose throughout the area, and antelope at 

lower elevations. Bighorn sheep have been reintroduced and mountain goats have been 

introduced. Grizzly bear have been extirpated. Lynx and wolverine, if they still exist are 

in very low numbers. Other predators include cougar, black bear, coyote, bobcat, red fox 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-3 

and pine marten. The diverse habitats support a diverse avifauna of migratory birds, 

some waterfowl, and grouse species including the white-tail ptarmigan. Many species of 

raptors use the area including red-tailed hawks, northern goshawk, harriers, kestrel, great 

horned owls, and golden eagles. Bald eagles winter at lower elevations. 

The Stansbury Range is in the Bonneville Basin Section (341A) of the Intermountain 

Semi-Desert and Desert Province. The Stansburys are one of several ranges in the 

province running north-south which are separated by broad sediment filled valleys. The 

range was formed by faulting and erosion has been a main factor if forming their present 

character. Large alluvial fans have formed at the mouths of most canyons. Elevations in 

the province are generally between 4,000 and 8,000 feet, although Deseret Peak tops out 

at 11,031 feet. Vegetation types include desert shrub, shrub-grass, and woodland 

vegetation. Woodlands consist of juniper-pinyon especially on the west side and south 

end of the range. The eastern slope is dominated by sagebrush at lower elevations, with 

aspen and Douglas fir on the higher sites. The area evolved to support bison, antelope, 

desert bighorn sheep, mule deer, large populations of lagomorphs and sage grouse. 

Major predators included grizzly bear, cougar, wolves, and coyotes. Grizzly bear, 

wolves, desert bighorn, and bison have been extirpated. None have been reintroduced to 

the Stansbury Range. Elk have moved into the Range. Many species of avifauna use the 

area. Besides the neotropical migrants, there are peregrine falcons, goshawks, golden 

eagles, wintering bald eagles and other raptors. 

Process 

We defined species-at-risk (SAR) as, “Federally listed endangered, threatened, candidate, 

and proposed species and other species for which loss of viability, including reduction in 

distribution or abundance, is a concern within the plan area. Other species-at-risk may 

include sensitive species and state listed species.” 

Species at risk are not management indicator species but species of concern that the 

Forest will watch as groups in relation to habitat changes. For most of the species the 

Forest will work with other agencies in gaining more information on presence and 

distribution.

For the purpose of identifying species-at-risk the Forest used the following definition: 

 For the Wasatch-Cache Plan revision the term “species-at-risk includes: 

-Fish and Wildlife Service endangered, threatened, candidate, proposed 

species. 

-Regional Forester designated sensitive species. 

 

 Also considered for inclusion as species-at-risk were species identified by: 

 -The Nature Conservancy as G1, G2, and G3. 

 -State Natural Heritage programs as S1 and S2. 

 -Partners In Flight species of concern. 

 -The Forest that do not appear on any other lists. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-4 

In some cases species may not be considered at-risk. Some species listed as S1 or S2 

should be more appropriately addressed as species that may be at risk, but little is known 

about their distribution patterns or abundance. For these species, the emphasis will be to 

work with states and other governmental agencies to gather additional information 

relative to their rarity, habitat associations and other information. 

Species for which viability is of concern were identified using the following lists: 

Federally Listed and Proposed (P), Endangered (E), Threatened (T), and Candidate (C) 

Species And Habitat in Utah by County (USDI 2002b); the Utah State Sensitive Species 

List and Natural Heritage Database (UDWR 1998a, 2002) considering S1 and S2 and G1, 

G2, and G3 species as ranked by the Utah Natural Heritage Program and the Nature 

Conservancy; the Intermountain Region Forest Service Sensitive Species List (USDA 

1994b); the Wyoming Species of Special Concern (Wyoming, 2001), and the Utah and 

Wyoming Partners in Flight Priority Species List (UDWR 1999a, Wyoming 2001). For 

consideration in analysis, the species listed were then evaluated for potential habitat or 

occurrence on the Forest, and for any known historic or current sightings. Only species 

on or in close proximity to the Wasatch-Cache NF are addressed in this paper. For all 

species, maps were generated from the Utah Natural Heritage Database program (UDWR 

2002), if available. For descriptions of rankings, refer to the referenced list. It is also 

noted that the Natural Heritage Database is not exhaustive, and that other species 

occurrences are known and were considered. Only rare species were considered as it was 

assumed that species that were either more abundant or generalists in terms of habitat 

requirements would not be of a concern from a viability perspective. A list of species to 

be considered was generated as follows, and includes their relevant rankings. Viability 

for plants, and aquatic vertebrates was analyzed under separate processes and are 

included in the project file for the Revised Forest Plan. A total 68 species including 32 

species of invertebrates, 2 amphibians, 3 reptiles, 22 birds and 9 mammals are listed for 

the Wasatch-cache National Forest. 

The SAR were then divided into coarse filter species and fine filter species. Fine filter 

species are those that are tracked individually. In general, these included the globally 

imperiled species that have been labeled as G1, G2, G3, Federally listed E, T, C, P 

species, and some Forest Service Sensitive species. Coarse filter species were grouped 

by the vegetation or habitat type that they are associated with so that common goals, 

standards and guidelines can be used for the species group. The final step in the process 

is to identify monitoring that is practical and within expected budgets to track the species 

or species groups. The figure below illustrates the process. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-5 

Figure B2 – 1. Terrestrial Species Viability Process 

TERRESTRIAL SPECIES BIODIVERSITY

Forest Species List 

Species at Risk 

 Coarse Filter Fine Filter 

 (globally secure, locally (globally imperiled: G1G2G3, 

 at risk: S1S2,PIF, some S) TECP*, some S) 

 

 

 

 Group Individual Species 

 (By Risk, Ecological Factors, Narrative

 Or Habitat) 

 

 

 Develop Conservation Develop Conservation 

 Measures Measures

 Evaluate Effects of Evaluate Effects of 

 Alternatives Alternatives 

*Two candidate species have been included in the coarse filter. These are the mountain 

plover and yellow-billed cuckoo. The reasoning is that so little of their habitat exists on 

Forest and they are covered in detail in BA’s for proposed projects within their habitats. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-6 

VERTEBRATES

Species-at-Risk 

The species in the following table have been identified as SAR from the Forest vertebrate 

species list which contains about 300 species including 30 fish, 6 amphibians, 18 reptiles, 

74 mammals, and 190 birds using the criteria discussed under process, above. Fish and 

amphibians are covered in Appendix B3 and plants are covered in Appendix B4. 

Table B2 – 1. Vertebrate Species at risk for Viability 

Species 

Common Name 

Primary Habitat on 

Wasatch-Cache NF 

Federal 

Ranking 

State 

(UT/WY) 

Ranking 

Global 

Ranking 

 

Reptiles

Common 

gartersake 

Generalist, near water None UT S2S3 G5 

Milksnake Generalist None UT S2S3 G5 

Rubber boa Generalist None UT S2S3 G5 

 

Birds

Bald eagle Cottonwood Riparian Threatened UT 

Threatened; 

WY S2BS3N 

G4 

Black rosy finch Alpine None UT PIF G5 

Black swift Waterfalls/Canyons None UT PIF, S1 G4 

Boreal owl Spruce/fir FS Sensitive WY S2 G5 

Brewer’s 

sparrow 

Sage Steppe None UT PIF 

WY S3B,SZN 

G5 

Broad-tailed 

hummingbird 

Riparian/Aspen/ 

Mountain shrub 

None UT PIF G5 

Evening 

grosbeak 

Conifer/Aspen None UT S2 G5 

Flammulated 

owl 

Aspen/Conifer FS Sensitive UT S3S4 G4 

Gray Catbird Lowland Riparian None UT S2 G5 

Lewis’ 

woodpecker 

Ponderosa Pine/ Mixed 

Conifer 

None UT PIF,S2 G5 

Mountain plover High plains and arid 

regions 

Proposed 

Threatened 

UT S1BSZN 

WY 

S2BSZN 

UT,WY PIF 

G2 

Northern 

goshawk 

Conifer/Aspen FS Sensitive UT S3 

WY 

S23B,S4N 

G4 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-7 

Osprey Riparian None UT S1S2B G5 

Peregrine falcon Canyons/Cliffs FS 

Sensitive* 

UT 

Endangered 

WY S2N 

G4 

Sage grouse Sage Steppe None UT S2 G5 

Sage sparrow Sage Steppe None UT PIF 

WY PIF 

Sandhill crane Riparian None UT S1 G5 

Sharp-tailed 

grouse 

Native shrub- grassland FS Sensitive UT S1S2 G4 

Three-toed 

woodpecker 

Spruce-fir/Conifer FS Sensitive UT S2,PIF 

WY S3 

G5 

Virginia’s 

warbler 

Mountain Shrub None UT PIF 

WY S2B,SZN 

G5 

Williamson’s 

sapsucker 

Conifer/Aspen None UT PIF,S2 

Yellow-billed 

cuckoo 

Moderately dense 

thickets and woods 

Candidate UT SHB G5 

 

Mammals

Dwarf shrew Alpine/scree None UT S1 

WY S2S3 

G4 

Fringed myotis Caves/Mountain shrub None UT S2 G5 

Idaho pocket 

gopher 

Shallow rocky soils None UT S1S2 

WY S2?1

G4 

Canada Lynx Conifer Threatened UT S1 

WY S1 

G5 

American Pine 

marten 

Conifer None UT S2 G5 

Townsend’s bigeared bat Caves/Riparian FS Sensitive UT S2 G4 

Western red bat Caves/Riparian None UT S1 G5 

Western smallfooted myotis Caves/Mountain shrub None UT S2 G5 

Wolverine Tundra/Coniferous 

Forest 

FS Sensetive UT S1 G4 

* = Recently delisted from threatened under ESA, considered as FS sensitive. 

Many of the species listed are widespread in areas outside of the Forest and Utah, and 

thus may not be affected by other management practices and threats. 

 

1

? = unknown 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-8 

Species Groups (coarse filter) 

Species selected as species of concern from a viability perspective were grouped into 

habitat associations. Groupings were selected to facilitate an ecosystem sustainability or 

landscape scale approach. Table B2-2 indicates habitats used by the species with the 

primary habitat analized shown with the letter “P.” 

 

Some species, such as the American redstart, whose range has been found to be a fringe 

area on the Forest have not been included in detail as a group member. Habitat and 

individuals will benefit and be protected through standards and guidelines that affect 

other species within the group. 

Table B2- 2 Species-at-Risk and Habitats Used 

Species 

Aspen Tall Forb Riparian Aquatic Sage Steppe Alpine Snags Caves/ Mines Conifer Pinyon/ Juniper Waterfall Cliffs Generalist 

 

Black rosy finch P 

Black swift P 

Boreal owl X X X P 

Brewer’s sparrow P 

Broad-tailed 

 hummingbird 

X P X 

Evening grosbeak P 

Flammulated owl P X X X 

Gray catbird X P 

Lewis’ woodpecker X X P X 

Mountain plover P 

Osprey X P 

Peregrine falcon X P 

Sage grouse X P 

Sage sparrow P 

Sandhill crane P 

Sharp-tailed grouse P 

Three-toed 

 woodpecker 

 P X 

Virginia’s warbler P 

Williamson’s 

 sapsucker 

 P X 

Yellow-billed 

 cuckoo 

 P 

 

Dwarf shrew P X 

Fringed myotis X P X X 

Idaho pocket 

 gopher 

 P 

American pine 

 marten 

 X P 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-9 

Townsend’s big- 

 eared bat 

 X X P 

Western red bat X X P 

Western small- 

 footed myotis 

 X X P 

Wolverine X X X X P 

 

Common 

 gatersnake 

 P 

Milksnake P 

Rubber boa P 

Coarse Filter Vertebrate Species/Habitat Summaries 

Aspen 

Flammulated owl (Otus flammeolus) G4, UT-S3,S4. Becoming increasingly 

common as surveys increase, this is an S3S4 species and originally listed as 

sensitive with the Region 4 USFS list (USDA Forest Service, 1994b). Known to 

occur on the Wasatch-Cache through project surveys, primarily using aspen and 

conifer stands with snags. Insectivorous species. Threats would be from loss of 

snags or from nesting disturbance. 

Tall Forb 

Broad-tailed hummingbird (Selasphorus platycercus) G5, UT-PIF. Utah is 

near the northern extent of the breeding range, and the species is common to Utah. 

It winters primarily in Mexico. It nests primarily in riparian and adjacent habitats 

(aspen and oak) both in lower valleys and higher elevations, with nests above 

ground. Feeds on nectar of wildflowers. Though common throughout the west, 

the species may be in decline in Utah (UDWR, 1999a). Threats to this species 

would include loss of riparian habitat and lack of wildflowers, among others. 

Riparian 

Gray catbird (Dumetella carolinensis) G5, UT-S2. Known to north-central 

Utah, nesting in riparian shrubs and trees from 4,500 to 7,000 feet. Utah is the far 

western edge of the species’ occurrence (Peterson 1990). It feeds on insects and 

seeds/fruits (USDA Forest Service, 1991). It is likely that loss of riparian habitat 

may be of concern for this species. 

Sandhill crane (Grus canadensis) G5, UT-S1. This is a common migrant in 

parts of northern Utah, especially along the Green River. Nesting is restricted to a 

few locations. They are more frequent at lower elevations in cultivated fields. 

They are dependent on secure nesting cover in wide-open riparian meadows. 

Predation and nest disruption is a common problem with the species. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-10 

Yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus) C, G5, UT-S1,S2B; WYS2B,SZN. This species is rare in the state. In northern Utah it is listed in Weber, 

Salt Lake, and Utah Counties. It breeds in riparian zones in streamside or 

cultivated trees and willows in lower valleys and canyons (UDWR 1998d, 2002). 

All Natural Heritage sites are at or below forest boundaries, and use of the 

Wasatch-Cache is likely to be incidental if at all. Utah is the far western edge of 

its breeding range (Peterson 1990). Because of the limited habitat on Forest and 

protection given to riparian areas this species is best followed in the coarse filter. 

Aquatic 

Osprey (Pandion haliaetus) G5, UT-S1,S2B. They have been observed nesting 

at Pineview Reservoir and Tea Pot Lake on the Wasatch-Cache NF. Future use 

on the Forest may occur if populations continue to expand, or if nesting platforms 

are developed. 

Sage Steppe 

Brewer’s sparrow (Spizella breweri) G5, UT-PIF; WY-S3B,SZN. Occurs in 

shrub steppe habitats in the western U.S., particularly in the Great Basin area. 

The species winters in the southwest U.S. and into Mexico. It nests in the mid 

canopy of dense sagebrush stands, and consumes insects in the summer, seeds in 

the winter. Considered to be common and strongly viable in Utah (UDWR 

1999a), but in a downward trend range-wide. Loss of sage steppe habitat is 

considered the main threat to the species. 

Sage sparrow (Amphispiza belli) UT-PIF, WY-PIF. Requires sagebrush and 

chaparral habitats with scattered bushes. Often found in and among the bushes in 

the Great Basin and other dry desert areas (USDA Forest Service, 1991).

Sage grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) G5, UT-S2. Small populations occur 

in sagebrush areas of the Wasatch-Cache (UDWR 2002). This species is of 

concern throughout the west. Occupies sage steppe ecosystems. Threats 

regionally are from loss of sage habitat, while locally predation may be more of 

concern. 

Mountain plover (Charadrius montanus) G3, UT-S1B,SXN; WY-S2B,SZN; 

UT and WY-PIF. This species occurs in the Uinta Basin east of the Forest, but 

has not been known to occur on or near the Forest (USGS Biological Survey, 

2000, UDWR 1998a,d, 2002). The main habitats would be along the 

Wyoming/Utah border where it is tied to the high plains sage steppe and short 

prairie grasslands of Wyoming. Because this is a fringe species on the Forest it 

has been carried forward in the coarse filter. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-11 

Sharp-tailed grouse (Tympanuchus phasianellus) G4, UT-S1,S2. Known only 

to northern Utah, with historic locations on or near the Wasatch-Cache (UDWR 

2002). The species habitat consists of grasslands and sage steppe. 

Idaho pocket gopher (Thomomys idahoensis) G4, UT-S1,S2; WY-S2?. The 

species has a restricted range in Idaho, Wyoming and Utah. There are three 

locations on the Ashley. There are also locations near the Wasatch-Cache. 

Usually found in shallow rocky soils, but one specimen in Rich County was in 

deep soils near a stream (UDWR 1998d). Threats in Utah are not known. 

Alpine 

Black rosy-finch (Leucosticte atrata) G5, UT-PIF. Common breeder in the 

mountains of the western U.S., with Utah being the southern limit. The bird 

winters in the same general area, but at lower altitudes. Primarily feeds on seeds 

of alpine plants, with some insects. Nests in cliffs or rock talus slopes. There are 

no perceived management threats to this species (UDWR 1999a). 

Dwarf shrew (Sorex nanus) G4, UT-S1; WY-S2,S3. This species appears to be 

rare, and is suspected to occur throughout the Wasatch and Uinta Mountains 

(UDWR 1998d, 2002). Known to occur on the Wasatch-Cache NF in the high 

Uinta Mountains. The main part of the species range is in Wyoming, Colorado, 

and New Mexico, with a little in Arizonia (Burt & Grossenheider 1976). It is 

typically found at higher elevations and prefers alpine tundra, subalpine 

coniferous forests, and usually subalpine rockslides. No known threats are likely 

from management activities due to the elevation range and lack of management 

disturbances. 

Snags 

Lewis’ woodpecker (Melanerpes lewis) G5, UT-S2,PIF. Occurs in all but eight 

counties in Utah, the species is generally uncommon (UDWR 1998a,d). Primarily 

known to occur in ponderosa pine forests (southern Utah), and is closely tied with 

occurrences of fire, but also inhabits mixed conifer, oak communities, and 

riparian woodlands. They feed on insects in the breeding season, nuts and berries 

in the winter. Utah is at the southern end of breeding habitat for the species, and 

it winters in the southwest U.S. (UDWR 1999). Threats would be from loss of 

fire created landscapes and loss of snags. 

Northern three-toed woodpecker (Picoides tridactylus) G5, UT-S2,PIF; WYS3. Known to occur on the Wasatch-Cache through project surveys. Utah is near 

the southern end of its range, though it occurs through the eastern U.S. and also in 

Europe and Asia (Peterson 1990, UDWR 1999a). Nests in cavities of trees and is 

associated with the spruce beetle in the spruce-fir communities, feeding primarily 

on these insects, and stays in its territory year-round. Threats include loss of 

cavities and a reduction in prey if insect outbreaks are curtailed. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-12 

Williamson’s sapsucker (Sphyrapicus thyroideus) G?, UT-S2,PIF. This is an 

uncommon summer resident in Utah, but occurs throughout most of the 

mountainous areas. Known to the Rocky Mountain states, and the interior coastal 

ranges of the western U.S. (Peterson 1990). They have been found in montane 

riparian woodlands as well as coniferous forests and aspen-conifer mixes (UDWR 

1998a,d). Drills holes in trees to extract sap and the insects it attracts, nesting in 

cavities (USDA Forest Service, 1991). Threats are from loss of snags for cavities. 

Caves/Mines 

Fringed myotis (Myotis thysanodes) G5, UT-S2. The species is widely 

distributed in Utah with most references being in southern Utah. The bat occurs 

throughout the western U.S. (Burt & Grossengeider 1976). There are 4 locations 

in Cache County on or near the Forest. The habitats where the fringed myotis has 

been found include caves, mines, rock crevices and buildings in the pine, oak, 

pinyon-juniper and desert shrub communities (UDWR 2000a). Unsurveyed 

and/or unprotected roosts in caves and/or mines would be at risk. 

 

Townsend’s big-eared bat (Plecotus townsendii) G4, UT-S2. This species is 

moderately common in the state, and occurs on the Wasatch-Cache (UDWR 

2000a). It is known to occur throughout the western U.S. and branching into the 

east (Burt & Grossengeider 1976). Caves and old mines are their main roost 

areas. Unsurveyed and/or unprotected roosts in caves and/or mines would be at 

risk on the Wasatch-Cache. 

Western small-footed myotis (Myotis ciliolabrum. Formerly Myotis subulatus 

and Myotis leibii) G5, UT-S2. Occurs statewide in at least 18 counties, and 

throughout the western U.S.. It may inhabit the Wasatch-Cache NF in Salt Lake, 

Weber and Cache Counties (UDWR 2000a). The species uses montane forest and 

woodlands which includes Douglas fir, quaking aspen, pinyon pine, rocky 

mountain juniper, Gambel’s oak, and black sagebrush. They have also been 

found in ponderosa pine and white fir. Roosting occurs in abandoned mines and 

caves. Unsurveyed and/or unprotected roosts would be at risk on the Forest. 

Winter roosts are likely in caves. 

Conifer 

Boreal owl (Aegolius funereus) G5, WY-S2. Utah is the far southern range of 

this species, which is associated with boreal forests in North America. It is a 

cavity nesting species, and preys largely on red-backed voles which require old 

growth type habitat in spruce-fir (USDA Forest Service 1994d). Its presence has 

been confirmed on the Wasatch-Cache through project surveys, and there are 

likely a few breeding pairs. Threats include loss of old growth habitat or nesting 

disturbance. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-13 

Evening grosbeak (Coccothraustes vespertinus) G5, UT-S2. Thought to be a 

rare breeder in the Uinta and Wasatch mountains in spruce-fir habitats, common 

throughout the state and the western U.S. as a migrant and wintering species 

(Peterson 1990, UDWR 1998d). Eats primarily seeds and insects, nesting in 

conifer branches 20 to 100 feet above ground (USDA Forest Service 1991). No 

known habitat limitations or threats occur on the Wasatch-Cache. 

American pine marten (Martes americana) G5, UT-S2. This species is located 

in the Uinta and Wasatch mountains (UDWR 1998a,d). It is thought to be in 

decline due to loss of habitat and over-trapping. It relies on coniferous forests at 

higher elevations using old growth structure for primary denning and foraging 

sites (USDA Forest Service 1994c). Loss of old growth forest structure would be 

of concern. The marten is known to occur throughout boreal forests in North 

America (Burt & Grossengeider 1976). 

Western red bat (Lasiurus blossevillii) G5, UT-S1. This is the rarest bat in 

Utah. It is known from about 5 locations, one of which is on the Wasatch-Cache 

(Providence Canyon). (UDWR 2000a). The species seems to prefer wooded 

areas. It roosts in trees, but occasionally will enter caves. It is not clear what 

habitat is lacking, if any, on the Wasatch-Cache. Unsurveyed and/or unprotected 

roosts in caves and/or mines would be at risk on the Wasatch-Cache, and possibly 

snags. 

Wolverine (Gulo gulo) G4, UT-S1. Historically known to occur in Utah. May 

be present in the Wasatch Mountains, and the Uinta Mountains with occasional 

reports persisting (UDWR 1998a,d, 2002). The species is associated with 

montane coniferous forests. This species is more fully analyzed in the Biological 

Evaluation that accompanies the Revised Forest Plan. It has been sighted in the 

Rocky Mountain and coastal mountains, and is most prevalent in the Arctic and 

Canada (USDA Forest Service 1994c). Human disturbance to habitat may be of 

concern, but threats are not well understood. 

Pinyon/Juniper 

Virginia’s warbler (Vermivora virginiae) G5, UT-PIF; WY-S2B,SZN. Utah is 

near the northern extent of the breeding range (southwest U.S.) for the species, 

and it winters primarily in Mexico (UDWR 1999a). Habitat includes oak 

canyons, brushy slopes and pinyon-juniper. This species is a more common 

ground nester. It is primarily insectivorous. Threats to this species are largely 

unknown, possibly from cowbird parasitism, predation, or loss of habitat. 

Downward trends are not well documented. 

Waterfalls/Cliffs 

Black swift (Cypseloides niger) G4, UT-S1,PIF. This species is associated with 

waterfalls where it nests in colonies, and feeds on insects caught in the air. It is 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-14 

known to occur on the Uinta at the Bridal Veil falls, near Aspen Grove, and likely 

near Stewart Falls by Aspen Grove and near Scout Falls near the Timponeeke 

campground (UDWR 1999a, Webb 2000). On the Wasatch-Cache they occur at 

Doughnut Falls. A loss of water flow, or human disturbance at nest sites would 

be the primary threats to the species. 

Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) G4, UT-Endangered; WY-S2N. 

Historically occurred on the Wasatch-Cache along the Wasatch front canyons 

(UDWR 2002), it still is found in some locations and has potential to occur in 

more. The speicies was recently delisted from the federal endangered species list 

due to species recovery throughout the west following alterations in pesticide use. 

Habitat on the Wyoming portion of the Forest is limited, but the species may use 

or migrate through the area. Threats would be from nest disruption. 

Habitat Generalists 

Milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum taylori) G5, UT-S2,S3. Listed as 

occurring in north-central Utah (Stebbins 1985). Known as a secretive snake 

from lowlands into the mountains, preying on reptiles and small mammals. The 

Utah subspecies is an isolated population from the more contiguous occurrence in 

the eastern U.S. Threats are unknown for this species, though collection is often a 

concern and threat with reptiles. 

Common gartersnake (Thamnophis sirtalis). G5, Ut-S2,S3 .This species is 

found in many environments including grassland, woodland, scrub, and forest 

(Stebbins 1985). It lives near water. In Utah it is generally found at lower 

elevations on the Wasatch Range and western Uintas. 

Rubber boa (Charina bottae). G5, UT-S2,S3. Frequents grassland, woodland, 

and forest (Stebbins 1985). Can be found under rotting logs, rocks, and the bark 

of fallen and standing dead trees. Historically the species has been found 

scattered across the forest. 

Fine Filter Vertebrate Species/Habitat Summaries 

Species used in the fine filter are those for which conservation strategies are available and 

then the discussion is still more towards the vegetation and habitats they use. Two 

candidate species that fit the fine filter definition have been put into the coarse filter 

category. These are the mountain plover that is a short grass prairie species and the 

yellow-billed cuckoo that uses low elevation riparian shrub and deciduous trees. Habitat 

for these two species is so limited on the Forest that it is not logical to deal with them at

the fine filter level. Measures to protect habitat for these species are covered in the 

coarse filter discussion and they will also be discussed in the biological assessment (BA).

The three species carried into the fine filter include two for which there are conservation 

strategies and agreements and one for which there is a recovery plan. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-15 

Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) G4, UT-Threatened; WY-S2B,S3N. The 

bald eagle is a wintering species in Utah and southwestern Wyoming. In recent 

years four pair have again begun nesting in Utah (USDI USFWS 2002b). None 

of these are on National Forest lands. None are known to nest in Uinta County, 

Wyoming along the Utah/Wyoming border. They primarily occupy cottonwood 

dominated riparian areas. Threats would be from roost disturbance or loss of 

winter habitat. They are common in the U.S. and being considered for delisting. 

 

Northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) G4, UT-S3; WY-S23,S4N. Occurs 

across the state in conifer-aspen forests. Where literature states that the number 

of populations is, “probably more than 20 and perhaps fewer than 100 

occurrences,” surveys on NFS lands over the past several years have identified 

many more nest sites – probably 300-400 (UDWR 1998a,b). Known to nest in 

several areas on the Wasatch-Cache NF. Threats would be from loss of habitat or 

nest disruption. A Conservation Assessment was conducted for Utah (Graham et 

al. 1999), showing an abundance of potential habitat and listing several 

management recommendations that have been incorporated into the Revised 

Forest Plan. A common breeder to the Rocky Mountain states and Canada, while 

wintering in the plains states and lower elevations of western states. 

Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis) G5, UT-S1; WY-S1. This federally threatened 

species occurred historically on the Wasatch-Cache throughout spruce-fir 

habitats, however none have been sighted in recent years. Utah would be the far 

southwest extension of the species’ range. A Conservation Agreement and 

Strategy have been developed for the species, based on a Conservation 

Assessment that was recently completed (Ruediger, 2000). Hair-snare surveys for 

the species were conducted using the national protocol in 1999, 2000, 2001 with 

no hits from the lynx. Brigham Young University is also conducting a forest 

carnivor study on the Uinta Mountains on both the Ashley and Wasatch-Cache 

National Forests. Their extensive networks of hair snares which also follow the 

national protocol have been negative in 2000 and 2001. Their third year of 

transects will be completed in 2002. The negative results do not indicate that the 

lynx does not exist on the Forest but does indicate that the probability is very low. 

Threats are from development, competition for prey from other species, and loss 

of denning and foraging habitat. 

Risks 

Conservation approaches are tied to risks associated to a vegetation type and species 

group in the coarse filter and to individual species or their habitat in the fine filter. 

Conservation and management efforts for bald eagles are tiered to the Pacific States Bald 

Eagle Recovery Plan. Conservation measures for the lynx are adapted from the work 

being done in Montana by the Lynx Amendment Team and will be published as the 

Northern Rockies Lynx Amendment. Goshawk conservation measures are adapted from 

the Wasatch-Cache Forest Plan Amendment (March, 2000i). Conservation measures for 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-16 

all species are contained in the standards and guidelines of the Forest Plan. Risks by 

vegetation type or habitat are listed in Table B2-3. 

Table B2 – 3. Ecosystems and Risks 

Grazing Succession Developed Sites Displacement Fire Suppressio

n

Logging Roads Water Development Pesticides Fragmentation Non-Native Plant Invasion 

Aspen X X X X X X 

Tall Forb X X X X 

Riparian X X X X X X X 

Aquatic X X X X X X X 

Sage Steppe X X X X X X X 

Alpine X X 

Snags X X X X X X 

Caves/Mines X X X X 

Conifer X X X X X X X X 

Pinyon/Juniper X X X X X X 

Waterfalls/Cliffs X X X 

Generalists X X X X X X 

Risks to vegetative communities or habitats used by identified speciesat-risk 

Tall Forb Community. 

The tall forb community is listed as primary habitat for only one species, the broad-tailed 

hummingbird. The Forest contains 3,200 acres of the tall forb community. The major 

risk to this community is grazing by mountain goats. At this point mountain goat 

populations are not of a size that evidence of damage to the tall forb community has been 

observed. Monitoring of the tall forb community will provide the information needed for 

documentation. As populations reach the desired herd size identified by the Utah 

Division of Wildlife Resources they will be controlled through hunting. Hunting already 

takes place on a limited basis on all mountain goat units at the present time. 

Wet Meadow Community. 

The sandhill crane is listed under the wet meadow community. There are 16,900 acres of 

wet meadow on the Forest. For the most part the sandhill crane passes through Utah 

during spring and fall migrations. There are some that remain in the state during the 

summer but the State of Utah lists their breeding status as S1 which means there are 

typically 5 or fewer occurrences or very few remaining individuals or acres. Standards 

and guidelines for wetlands provide protection needed for the sandhill cranes that use the 

area. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-17 

Bottomland Hardwoods and Willows. 

This is the primary habitat of the yellow-billed cuckoo that has recently been listed as a 

candidate species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The State lists the species as a 

historical breeder in the State. The Forest has 39,400 acres of bottomland hardwoods and 

willow that are protected by standards and guidelines for riparian areas and grazing. 

Aquatic. 

The osprey has been listed under the aquatic heading because of its dependence of 

aquatic habitats for foraging. Many of these areas are off Forest but those on Forest are 

protected by standards and guidelines with no proposed changes in management that 

would affect these species. 

Sage Steppe. 

Species included under the sage steppe community are Brewer’s sparrow, mountain 

plover, sage grouse, sage sparrow, sharp-tailed grouse and Idaho pocket gopher. The 

mountain plover is mostly a short grass prairie species. There is little, if any, of this 

habitat on the Forest along the Wyoming border but we have included the species 

because of it’s proposed threatened status under the Endangered Species Act. The sharptailed grouse is only considered in appropriate habitat in Cache, Box Elder, and Weber 

Counties. The Idaho pocket gopher if present is found along the Wyoming border. There 

are 189,600 acres of sage steppe habitat on the Forest. This is an area where habitat 

manipulation could take place under the Revised Plan. Table B2 – 8 shows the amount 

of possible treatment under each alternative. The table includes treatments in sagebrush 

and pinyon-juniper and comes from Table VEG – 4 in Chapter 3 of the FEIS. 

Pinyon-Juniper. 

Pinyon-juniper is the primary habitat of Virginia’s warbler. There are 76,900 acres of 

pinyon-juniper on the Forest. Pinyon-juniper treatments are possible under the revised 

plan. They are included with the sage steppe for planning purposes and are covered in 

Table B2 – 8. 

Table B2 – 8 Possible Treatment in Sage Steppe, Pinyon-Juniper 

Sage Steppe/ PinyonJuniper Alt 

1 

Alt 

2 

Alt 

3 

Alt 

4 

Alt 

5 

Alt 

6 

Alt 

7 

 

Prescribed burns 0 40,000 20,000 10,000 10,000 20,000 30,000

Total area in sage, pinyonjuniper type 266,500 acres 

% of area that could be 

treated in 10 year period 

0% 15% 8% 4% 4% 8% 11% 

Alpine. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-18 

The black rosy finch and dwarf shrew use the alpine areas on the Forest. There are 

19,700 acres of this habitat present. The Uinta Mountains are the areas where these 

species occur in the Alpine habitats. There are no habitat manipulation projects that 

would take place in the habitats of these species. 

Snags. 

The Lewis’ woodpecker, three-toed woodpecker, and Williamson’s sapsucker are snag 

dependent species that are listed at risk. Snag management is a concern Forest-wide in 

appropriate tree species and a guideline in the Revised Plan identify the densities they 

should occur in. 

Caves/Mines. 

Townsend’s big-eared bat, fringed myotis, and western small-footed myotis are 

dependant on caves and mines. There is a Revised Plan standard that prohibits blocking 

the free ingress or egress from caves and mines. Caves and mines are evaluated on an 

case by case basis to determine the need to restrict public access. 

Aspen and Conifer. 

This category includes all combinations including conifer aspen, aspen conifer, aspen, 

mixed conifer, spruce-fir, lodgepole pine, Douglas fir, and ponderosa pine. There are 

660,100 acres of this combination of species on the Forest. Species-at-risk that depend 

on aspen and conifer include boreal owl flammulated owl, gray catbird, western red bat, 

American pine marten, and wolverine. Many of these species depend more on the 

mature/old growth age classes while others depend more on the younger age classes. The 

Forest does not have a complete mapping of age classes but is working towards that end. 

Table B2 – 9 indicates the possible acreages of treatment by alternative to show what 

changes in age class could occur over a 10 year period and the miles of road that would 

be needed for timber harvest. 

Table B2 – 9 Possible Treatments in Aspen and Conifer 

Timber Treatments Alt

1 

Alt 

2 

Alt 

3 

Alt 

4 

Alt 

5 

Alt 

6 

Alt 

7 

 

Acres Prescribed Burns 

Aspen, Aspen/Conifer 

0 80,000 32,000 7,200 7,200 32,000 32,000

Acres Prescribed Burns 

Douglas Fir 

0 4,000 2,000 0 0 2,000 2,000

Acres Timber Harvest 

Aspen, and Conifer 

0 6,500 7,500 12,500 15,500 5,000 8,500

 

Total Treatment Acres 0 90,500 41,500 19,700 22,700 39,000 42,500

Total Acres of Aspen and 

Conifer 

660,100 

% of Area That Could Be 0% 14% 6% 3% 3% 6% 6% 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-19 

Treated in 10 Year Period 

New Timber 

Harvest Road 

Construction (miles) 

0 6 39 49 49 6 7 

Waterfalls/Cliffs. 

The black swift nests behind waterfalls where there are no management activities taking 

place. The species on the Wasatch-Cache falls into the category of an inherently rare 

species in that low numbers are due to the rarity of habitat and not on any management 

activity. The peregrine falcon nests on high cliffs again where there are not active 

management activities. If peregrines are found in areas where climbing is popular 

closures will be considered. 

Habitat Generalists. 

The common gartersnake, mildsnake, and rubber boa have been found at most elevations 

in the Forest and in many different habitats. The discussion above on all vegetation types 

and habitats speak to these generalist species. 

Persistence

The National Forest Management Act (NFMA) and its implementing regulations require 

National Forests to provide habitat in order to “maintain viable populations of existing 

native and desired non-native vertebrate species in the planning area.” (36CFR219.19). 

The NFMA regulations define a viable population as “one which has the estimated 

numbers and distribution of reproductive individuals to insure its continued existence is 

well distributed in the planning area.” The regulations direct that “habitat must be 

provided to support, at least, a minimum number of reproductive individuals and that 

habitat must be well distributed so that those individuals can interact with others in the 

planning area. 

Table B2 – 10 summarizes the above discussions and notes the effects of Alternative 7 on 

the groups. With the low amount of management on the Forest that alters habitats it is 

felt that all species-at-risk will persist through the next planning period. Table B2-10 does 

show that seven species listed as being able to persist through the planning period with a 

“qualified” yes. These species were sandhill crane, yellow-billed cuckoo, bald eagle, 

mountain plover, sharp-tailed grouse, Canada lynx, and wolverine. The qualified “yes” 

was given because there is no evidence that these species are present with the “estimated 

numbers and distribution of reproductive individuals to ensure its continued 

existence...”. These species are not present because their life histories or natural ranges 

do not include adequate areas of the Forest. The Forest does, however, have the habitat, 

that in conjunction with habitat adjacent to the Forest could “support, at least, a minimum 

number of reproductive individuals...” Habitat will be maintained to meet the law 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-20 

although the possibility of having a reproductive population is very low. The rationale for 

each species is listed below. 

Sandhill crane. The main population of sandhill cranes passes through Utah on 

spring/fall migrations. There is minimal breeding in the State. There are no historical or 

present breeding known to be taking place on the Forest. The birds use agricultural areas 

more than any other habitat in the State. Riparian and other areas that the birds may use 

on the Forest will be protected through standards and guidelines in the Revised Plan. 

Yellow-billed cuckoo. The State of Utah lists the species as historically breeding in the 

State. Occurrences in the State are very sporadic and have been single birds in a given 

year for the past several occurrences. Lowland riparian shrub and deciduous tree habitats 

will be protected through standards and guidelines in the Revised Plan. 

Bald eagle. There are four known nesting pairs of bald eagles in the State and none are 

on National Forest System lands. There is no historic record of them nesting on the 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest. Roost areas on the Forest will be protected. 

Mountain plover. The mountain plover has never been documented on the Forest. 

Habitat on the Forest along the Wyoming border is limited and a viable reproducing 

population would depend more on adjacent lands where the Forest does not have control. 

Habitats need to be mapped and will be protected through standards and guidelines in the 

Revised Plan. 

Sharp-tailed grouse. The sharp-tailed grouse is occasionally seen on or adjacent to the 

Forest but the Forest is on the fringes of the species habitat and would add little to the 

habitat needed for a viable reproducing population. Habitats need to be mapped and will 

be protected through standards and guidelines in the Revised Plan. 

Canada lynx. The FWS, State of Utah, and Forest Service have not been able to 

document the presence of lynx through surveys done over the past three years. Habitat is 

present to maintain a viable population but unless Utah became part of a reintroduction 

plan presented by the FWS there will likely never be a viable population in the State. 

Wolverine. Wolverine are occasionally reported in Northern Utah but even with surveys 

in those areas they have not been confirmed. Habitat is present to maintain a viable 

population but unless there were to be a reintroduction effort this probably will not 

happen.

For the other species-at-risk Forest plan management direction set forth in the Desired 

Future Conditions, goals, objectives, management prescriptions, standards and 

guidelines, when considered with other influences such as the projected flat budget, and 

the level of management activity (see discussions above) and the goal of managing for 

PFC persistence will be maintained through the next planning period. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-21 

Table B2 – 10 Effects of Management 

Species Primary 

Habitat 

Primary 

Age Class 

Used 

Current

Amount

(acres) 

Projected % 

Change in Age 

Class Over 

10 Years 

Under 

Alternative 7 

Persistence 

Over 10 

Years 

Assumptions 

Broad-tailed 

hummingbird 

TF N/A 3,200 0 Yes Biggest threat 

to habitat is 

grazing by 

mountain 

goats. 

Sandhill 

crane 

WM N/A 16,900 0 Yes1 Species most 

often just 

migrating 

through. 

Yellowbilled 

cuckoo 

BH,WI N/A 39,400 Yes1 Species is not 

known to nest 

in Utah. 

Bald eagle Aquatic N/A N/A N/A Yes1

Osprey Aquatic N/A N/A N/A Yes 

See discussion 

of aquatic 

protection in 

Appendix B3. 

Brewer’s 

sparrow 

Sage Steppe Mature/Old 189,600 

Yes 

Mountain 

plover 

Sage Steppe, 

Short grass 

Young 189,600 Yes1 

Sage grouse Sage Steppe All 189,600 Yes 

Sage sparrow Sage Steppe ? 189,600 Yes 

Sharp-tailed 

grouse 

Sage Steppe ? 189,600 Yes1 

Idaho pocket 

gopher 

Sage Steppe ? 189,600 Yes 

 

Virginia’s 

 warbler 

Pinyon/ 

 Juniper 

? 76,900 

Sagebrush and 

pinyon-juniper 

total 226,500 

acres. Under 

Alternative 7 

30,000 acres 

could be 

treated in 10 

years. This is 

11 % of the 

total. 

Yes 

Black rosy 

finch 

Alpine N/A 19,700 0 Yes 

Dwarf shrew Alpine N/A 19,700 0 Yes 

 

Lewis’ 

woodpecker 

Snags N/A N/A N/A Yes 

Three-toed 

woodpecker 

Snags N/A N/A N/A Yes 

Williamson’s 

sapsucker 

Snags N/A N/A N/A Yes 

Snag and dead 

down woody 

debris 

guideline will 

ensure proper 

snag densities. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-22 

Townsend’s 

big-eared 

 bat 

Caves/ 

 Mines 

N/A N/A 0 Yes 

Fringed 

 myotis 

Caves/ 

 Mines 

N/A N/A 0 Yes 

Western 

 Smallfooted 

 myotis 

Caves/ 

 Mines 

N/A N/A 0 Yes 

Cave and 

mine standard 

will ensure 

protection of 

cave and mine 

dependent 

species. 

Boreal owl CA,AC Mature/Old 205,600 Yes 

Flammulated 

owl 

AS,CA,AC Mature/Old 205,600 Yes 

Gray catbird SF,MC,LP,CA 

AC,DF,PP 

? 557,300 Yes 

Northern 

 goshawk 

SF,MC,LP,CA 

AC,DF,PP 

Mature/Old 557,300 Yes 

Western red 

 bat 

SF,MC,LP,CA 

AC,DF,PP 

Mature/Old 557,300 Yes 

Canada lynx SF,MC,LP,CA 

AC,DF,PP 

All 557,300 Yes1 

American 

pine 

 marten 

SF,MC,LP,CA 

AC,DF,PP 

Mature/Old 557,300 Yes 

Wolverine SF,MC,DF Mature/Old 292,700 

All aspen, 

aspen/conifer 

mixes, and 

straight conifer 

on the Forest 

total 660,100 

acres. Under 

Alternative 7 

42,500 acres 

could be 

treated through 

fire or timber 

sales. 

This is 

6% 

of the total 

acreage. 

Yes1

 

Black swift Waterfalls/ 

 Cliffs 

N/A N/A 0 Yes Nests behind 

waterfalls 

where no 

management 

activities are 

planned. 

Perigrine 

 falcon 

Waterfalls/ 

 Cliffs 

N/A N/A 0 Yes Nests on high 

rugged 

inaccessible 

cliffs with no 

planned 

management 

activities. 

Common 

 gartersnake 

Generalist N/A N/A 

Milksnake Generalist N/A N/A 

Rubber boa Generalist N/A N/A 

 

 1 A qualified yes. See discussion under persistence. 

 AC – Aspen/Conifer MC – Mixed Conifer 

 AS – Aspen PP – Ponderosa Pine 

 BH – Bottomland Hardwood SF – Spruce/Fir 

 CA – Conifer/Aspen TF – Tall Forb 

 DF – Douglas Fir WI – Willow 

 LP – Lodgepole Pine WM – Wet Meadow 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-23 

Cumulative Effects 

The Forest plan identifies what activities might occur during the planning period but does 

not indicate exactly where they will occur except in the general context of management 

areas and prescriptions where the activities are allowed. Cumulative effects will vary due 

to the individual needs and habitat of individual species and impacts from resource uses 

outside the Forest. Cumulative effects to wildlife are also based on the cumulative 

effects described for vegetation, watersheds, and aquatic resources, in their respective 

sections in this chapter. 

Past impacts have included commercial and firewood harvest of timber. While structure 

within some forested stands has been altered, mature overstory canopies have remained 

due to a lack of clearcutting (except in lodgepole) or other such even-aged management 

methods in coniferous stands. Current harvesting methods and those planned for use in 

the future are of uneven aged methods in conifer stands except lodgepole pine, and evenaged methods in aspen stands. 

Temporary changes in habitat may be evident through vegetation management or similar 

type non-permanent disturbances. Commercial timber, prescribed burning and wildland 

fire (including wildland fire use) are methods used for these temporary changes. These 

treatments would meet requirements for residual habitat components such as snags, dead 

and down material, and landscape structure. It is not likely that these activities in 

combined total would affect any of the wildlife SAR to the point where viability is 

compromised beyond current conditions. With the Forest adhering to the most current 

and preventative measures available for managing habitat, the cumulative effects to the 

species are anticipated to be minimal as a result of management activities proposed in all 

alternatives. Old growth would be retained to meet the planned requirement identified in 

the Revised Plan guidelines. 

Livestock grazing has caused the loss of some forb communities and altered the 

understory of forested communities and the structure of shrub and grass/forb 

communities. However, grazing levels (in terms of number of livestock and use levels) 

have been greatly reduced from earlier decades. 

Livestock grazing and associated soil loss has altered watershed conditions and aquatic 

habitats for many species. While management is planned to alter these conditions and 

prevent any future impacts, recovery may not occur at a rate substantial enough to affect 

a change in the long term, particularly in terms of vegetative conditions. Watershed and 

fisheries projects are designed to improve these habitats. 

The lack of younger seral conditions are of concern from a diversity of habitat standpoint. 

Management directed at striving for PFC of vegetation communities would provide 

improved habitat for many species. 

Prescribed fire, wildland fire use, and mechanical (commercial harvest or other methods) 

methods would be used to diversify structural stages in all alternatives, although it is not 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-24 

anticipated that the level of activity proposed would bring the communities within PFC 

within the next several decades due to the inability to treat enough habitat, which is in 

part due to other resource concerns (e.g. air quality) and in part due to funding. With 

alternatives that do not allow or significantly limit timber harvest these treatments may 

become dependent on prescribed fire and wildland fire use 

Alternative 5 could increase the potential level of resource commodities. Alternative 1 

would maximize the trend toward passive resource preservation, rather than active 

management, carrying both positive and negative implications for wildlife. 

Potential habitat disturbances can be summarized by the number of acres disturbed 

through typical management activities. While development of roads and campgrounds 

was much greater through the 1960’s, it is not anticipated that the rate of increase will be 

that great in the future. In addition, some acres of habitat may be gained if roads are 

decommissioned, however this is an unknown level at this time. 

Species with unknown distributions and threats, such as the wolverine and marten, may 

have more specific management direction applied should ongoing and recent studies and 

assessments indicate a need for listing them under the Endangered Species Act. There 

are also potentials for immigration from other listed species, such as the wolf, into the 

Wasatch-Cache NF. 

Introductions of non-native wildlife species, which is largely outside of Forest Service 

control, have the potential to increase cumulative effects through diseases or through 

resource competition. In all introductions the Forest Service has the responsibility to 

work cooperatively with the State to assess habitat and potential impacts. 

For wildlife species that are subject to hunting or trapping (e.g. big game and beaver), 

state regulatory mechanisms are responsible for the sustainability of these populations, 

and directly affect the ecology of managing these species. Should severe winters occur, 

effects would be more severe on big game species due to the reduction in amount and 

quality of winter range, primarily off Forest. 

Regional risk trends for many species of wildlife are due to trends started during past 

heavier exploitative uses of habitat. While recovery is slow, it is perceived to be 

occurring for some habitats and species, although the loss of other habitats in areas being 

developed or converted to annual grasses and invasive weeds is also of regional concern 

for many species, both on the Forest and adjacent to it. 

While cumulative impacts within the Forest may affect some species, the implementation 

of goals, objectives, standards and guidelines are expected to conserve existing habitat 

and improve habitat for some of these species. By managing within the range of historic 

variation and properly functioning condition it is expected that all species will be 

sustained in the long term. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-25 

Lands Adjacent to National Forest 

On lands outside the National Forest, most of the activities with the potential to 

negatively affect terrestrial and aquatic resources are outside of Forest Service 

jurisdiction, such as aquatic diversions and urban development. The cumulative effects 

for wildlife resources considers land within the Forest boundary, but takes into 

consideration the private, state, other National Forest, and BLM lands adjoining it as 

wildlife do not recognize property boundaries. The trends of a predominance of mature 

vegetative conditions occur similarly on adjoining federal and state lands, largely due to 

similar fire suppression practices. The value of habitat on the Forest would continue to 

be of higher importance as private land adjoining the Forest is developed in the future. 

The similar management methods on the Uinta National Forest to the south, the Ashley 

National Forest to the east, and the Caribou National Forest to the north provide 

assurance on the maintenance of suitable wildlife habitat and connectivity of forested 

habitats, although similar concerns on lack of young seral conditions exist. 

With the predicted expansion of urban areas adjacent to the Forest, and on inholdings 

within it, the value of the Forest as a biological reserve will continue to escalate. Urban 

areas will exert the most influence on the Forest, through fire suppression needs and 

risks, through expansion of noxious weeds and other undesirable or non-native vegetation 

species, and through the increased user demand for recreation on the Forest. Urban 

expansion and development on private in-holdings within the Forest have the potential to 

increase fragmentation and reduce connectivity of habitats. Similar impacts are 

anticipated in winter range areas because of their lower elevations and development. 

These expansions would not likely affect old growth conditions. 

Concern is generated should trends of increased use of water diversions and increased 

recreation demands continue, carrying an associated risk of population declines and 

potential risks in viability depending on the needs of individual species. Similar trends 

are anticipated on National Forests and BLM lands adjacent to the Wasatch-Cache. 

Fragmentation/Connectivity 

“Fragmentation” of habitat on the Forest is naturally occurring in many areas, especially 

the overthrust belt and the western Uinta Mountains, as is evident viewing the vegetation 

map. In these areas there is a high degree of dispersion of native vegetative communities, 

rather than more contiguous or larger blocks of continuous forest canopy. The exception 

to this is in the Uinta Mountains in the lodgepole, mixed conifer, spruce-fir vegetation 

type. No conversion or loss of vegetation types has occurred to increase fragmentation at 

a large scale on the Forest. The high degree of mosaics was likely historically present, 

however likely represented by more structural diversity within vegetative communities. 

Smaller-scale habitat fragmentation has occurred primarily through the development of a 

network of roads and small recreation site developments within the Forest. Although a 

loss of habitat has occurred historically due to these developments, effects on 

fragmentation are minimal. Loss of some species such as the lynx, wolf, grizzly bear was 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-26 

due to harvesting/trapping and competition from other predators, rather than an increase 

in habitat fragmentation. 

Connectivity of habitats at this point has mostly been compromised through development 

of urban areas adjacent to the Forest. Other than paved highways and small utility 

corridors, the Forest remains largely intact from its original composition. 

The maintenance of the forested corridor of connectivity along the Wasatch range north 

to Idaho and Wyoming, south to the Uinta NF and east to the Ashley NF is important. 

Private land use is the greatest threat to this corridor. Corridor use is important for wide 

ranging species such as neo-tropical migratory birds, raptors, and for larger bodied 

mammals that are capable of dispersing across many miles. 

For some species, such as neo-tropical migratory birds and wide-ranging carnivores, 

impacts from far off-site areas such as deforestation in Central America or urban 

expansions in the northwest and western U.S. may have far greater effects on 

fragmentation and viability than those of Forest management activities both on the 

Wasatch-Cache and neighboring lands. 

Strategy 

Coarse Filter Species 

Coarse filter species will be tracked through the monitoring of habitat changes caused by 

other resource uses and natural disturbance events (e.g. fire). 

Fine Filter Species 

Canada lynx. The Canada Lynx Conservation Assessment and Strategy (Ruediger, 

2000) lists three inventory and monitoring needs for the lynx. First, is inventory and 

monitoring of lynx distribution. This includes delineating distribution through the 

collecting of hair samples (McKelvey et al. 1999). This process has begun on the Forest. 

Hair-snare surveys for the species were conducted using the national protocol in 1999, 

2000, 2001 with no hits from the lynx. Brigham Young University is also conducting a 

forest carnivor study on the Uinta Mountains on both the Ashley and Wasatch-Cache 

National Forests. Their extensive networks of hair snares which also follow the national 

protocol have been negative in 2000 and 2001. Their third year of transects will be 

completed in 2002. 

 

Second, is inventory and monitoring of lynx habitat conditions. This includes habitat 

(denning and foraging) quality and distribution, and effects of major risk factors such as 

recreational activities that cause snow compaction. 

Third, is monitoring and validation of conservation measures outlined in the strategy. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-27 

Northern goshawk. The goshawk has been identified as a management indicator species 

in the Revised Forest Plan and monitored as identified in Chaper 4 of the Plan. 

Bald Eagle. Utah and the Wasatch-Cache National Forest were not included in the FWS 

Recovery Plan for the bald eagle. For the most part the species is only a winter visitant to 

the State (in the past few years four pair have begun nesting in Utah at lower elevations 

around sources of abundant prey). The Forest will work with the UWDR and FWS in 

monitoring wintering eagles. 

Vertebrate Species Not Carried Forward 

Although not carried forward for the reasons stated below if the species occasionally uses 

the Forest it would have the needed habitat components because of actions and 

circumstances identified above and the implementation of standards and guidelines in the 

Revised Forest Plan. 

Birds: 

American Redstart (Setophaga ruticilla) G5, Ut-S2B,SZN. Historically known 

as a rare breeding species occurring at lower elevations on the Provo River 

(UDWR 1998d, 2002). Utah is the far southern edge of the species range 

(Peterson, 1990). It is considered native and natural with presence confident 

regionally in the Uinta and Wasatch Mountains. The species is found in riparian 

vegetation, especially willows, deciduous trees of valleys and low canyons, and 

may use aspen-conifer stands (USDA Forest Service 1991). Brown-headed 

cowbirds are a problem in riparian areas. 

American avocet (Recurvirostra americana) UT-PIF. This species is closely 

associated with the Great Salt Lake wetlands and is an incidental visitor to the 

Forest, if at all (Peterson 1990). 

American white pelican (Pelecanus erythrorhynchos) G3, UT-S1B. The 

species is present because of the wetlands around the Great Salt Lake and Utah 

Lake (UDWR 1998a,d). Use of lakes on the Forest is incidental. 

Black-necked stilt (Himantopus mexicanus) UT-PIF. Occurs in Utah in 

connection with Great Salt Lake wetlands habitats. (UDWR 1999a). 

Black tern (Chlidonias niger) G4, UT-S2B. It is a localized breeder in northern 

Utah at Utah Lake, Great Salt Lake, Pelican Lake and the Green River below NFS 

lands. Its use of the Forest is incidental, if at all (UDWR 1998a,d). 

Black-throated gray warbler (Dendroica nigrescens). UT-PIF. Inhabits conifer 

forests that are open and interspersed with shrubs or forest edges. In Utah it 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-28 

prefers pinyon/juniper and scrub oak. Nesting elevations are from 4,000 to 7,000 

feet (UDWR 1999a). 

Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) UT-PIF. Utah is the southern edge of the 

species range. Its main habitats are hayfields and meadows. Its use of the Forest 

is incidental, if at all. Breeding may occur in the Heber and Kamas valleys 

(UDWR 1999a). 

Common loon (Gavia immer) G5, UT-SZN. The common loon occurs in Utah 

as an uncommon migrant and winter visitor. A few individuals remain through 

the summer, but there is no evidence of breeding (UDWR 1998d). 

Grasshopper sparrow (Ammodramus savannarum) G5, UT-S1B. Known to 

northwest and eastern Utah, with little habitat potential on the Wasatch-Cache due 

to dry grassland habitat required. They are or were an incidental visitant to the 

Forest (UDWR 1998a,d). 

Gray vireo (Vireo vicinoir) UT-PIF. The species is found primarily in southern 

Utah (UDWR 1999a). 

Great gray owl (Strix nebulosa) G5, UT-SAN. This is an irregular winter 

visitant to Utah and may be in response to harsh winters north of Utah (Peterson 

1990, USDA 1991, UDWR 1998d). The one report of a summer resident bird 

may represent post-breeding wandering 

Green heron (Butorides virescens) G5, UT-S1B,SAN. Inhabits low elevation 

marshes, not known to occur on the Wasatch-Cache NF (UDWR 1998d). 

Least bittern (Ixobrychus exilis) G5, UT-S1B. This species is tied to the Great 

Salt Lake and Utah Lake (UDWR 1998d). Use of the Forest is incidental if at all. 

Long-billed curlew (Numenius americanus) G5, UT-BCP; WY-S3B,SZN. This 

is a high plains, rangeland species associated with wetlands. In winter it uses 

cultivated lands and salt marshes. Occurrences in Utah are tied closely to the 

Great Salt Lake wetlands and Utah Lake (UDWR 1998a,d, 2002). Habitat on the 

Wyoming portion of the Forest is marginal, at best. Use of the Forest is 

incidental. 

Purple martin (Progne subis ). G5, Ut-S2,S3B, WY-S2B,SZN. Open water near 

farms and meadows. 

Snowy plover (Charadrius alexandrinus) G4, UT-S2,S3B. This species is 

known to occupy wetland sites, primarily associated with Utah Lake and the 

Great Salt Lake (UDWR 2002). Use of the Wasatch-Cache NF would be 

incidental, if at all. 

Swainson’s Hawk (Buteo swainsoni). UT-S3B,SRN, WY-PIF. Prefers prairies 

and large open valleys. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-29 

Trumpeter swan (Cygnus buccinator) G4, UT-S1N,SHB?. Associated with 

Great Salt Lake wetlands and use of the Wasatch Cache would be incidental, if at 

all (UDWR 1998d). 

Veery (Catharus fuscescens) G5, UT-S2B. Known to occur in northern Utah, 

which is the southern edge of the species’ breeding range (UDWR 1998d, 

Peterson 1990). Migrates to southeast U.S. for the winter. Requires moist 

woodlands or riparian woodlands with understories of shrubs, likely lower 

elevations in Utah. Nests on the ground or in low shrubs (USDA 1991). 

Whooping crane (Grus americana) E, G1, UT-SEN. This species is not native 

to Utah. Birds migrating through Utah between winter and summer range are 

from an artificially established population (UDWR 1998d). Use of the Forest is 

incidental, if at all. 

Mammals: 

Black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes) E, G1, UT-S1; WY-S1. Known only 

from eastern Utah. Habitat potential on the Wasatch-Cache is in Rich and 

Summit counties at lower elevations along the Wyoming border. The FWS lists 

Rich and Summit Counties as “historical” range (USDI USFWS 2002b). The 

Forest Service manages little or no habitat for the species in Wyoming. 

Brown (grizzly) bear (Ursus arctos) T, G4, UT-SX. The species formerly 

ranged throughout Utah except for barren areas such as parts of the west desert. It 

is extirpated in the state, the last known animal being killed in the Bear River 

Range above Logan in the `1930’s (UDWR 1998a,d, 2002; USDI USFWS 

2002b). 

Dark kangaroo mouse (Microdipodops megacephalus) G5, UT-S2. Known to 

occur in Tooele County (UDWR 2002). Its habitat is fine gravelly soils from 

4,400 to 5,400 feet. Known to the Great Basin, Tooele County is the eastern most 

range of this species. 

Fisher (Martes pennanti) G5, UT-SR; WY-S1. The species has been historically 

reported in the state by tracks in the Trial Lake area but it is questioned whether it 

really existed historically or if it does today (UDWR 1998a,d, USDA Forest 

Service 1994c, Burt & Grossenheider 1976). If it did occur, habitat would include 

montane forests, with denning sites in old growth type stands. 

Gray wolf (Canis lupus) E, G4, UT-SX; WY-S1. The species formerly used the 

entire state, except possibly the barren areas of the west desert. Extirpated earlier 

in the 20th century (UDWR 1998a,d). It may return through the expansion of the 

packs from the Greater Yellowstone area, and planning for the species return is 

currently being conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This species 

and its habitat would be managed through the endangered species process in 

conjunction with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-30 

Northern river otter (Loutra canadensis) G5, UT-S1,S2; WY-S3. The species 

has been reported on all three Forests in northern Utah over time. There are 

reports from the ‘50’s, ‘70’s, and ‘80’s. Other reports from southern Utah are 

from the Colorado River. The species is rare in the state and populations are low 

(UDWR 1998a,d, 2002). Habitat does exist on the Forest in Wyoming. 

Preble’s shrew (Sorex preblei) G4, UT-S1; WY-S1,S2. Tooele County is listed 

as habitat for this species, in desert springs, bogs, and marshes (UDWR 1998a, 

2002). No locations are known to the Wasatch-Cache NF, although potential 

habitat may occur in the Stansbury’s. Loss of habitat would be of concern. 

Ringtail (Bassariscus astutus) G5, UT-S3; WY-S2. Relatively common to Utah. 

Tends to seek rocky country with cliffs and rock outcrops near water. No known 

habitat threats, but possible population threats from potential animal damage 

control and trapping. Utah is the northern most extension of its range as it is 

common throughout the southwest (Burt & Grossenheider 1976). 

Skull Valley pocket gopher (Thomomys bottae robustus) G5, UT-S2. This 

subspecies is known from one population in Skull Valley, Tooele County (UDWR 

2002). They were first recorded in 1946 and Natural Heritage has no record 

since. 

Spotted bat (Euderma maculata) G4, UT-S2; WY-S1. Utah is in the center of 

the species range. The spotted bat inhabits arid country and occasionally enters 

buildings and caves. Most occurrences in the state are in the southern portions. 

The closest occurrence to the Wasatch-Cache was a female that was collected off 

of a school at 4800 South Redwood Road in Salt Lake City in 1934 (UDWR 

2002, Burt & Grossenheider 1976). 

Wyoming ground squirrel (Spermophilus elegans) G5, UT-S2,S3. The species 

is known from about 7 locations in Rich, Summit, and Daggett Counties. None 

are on NFS lands. Habitat consists of greasewood, and sagebrush areas, in open 

areas along roadsides, and along the margins of irrigated farmland and meadows 

(UDWR 1998a,d, 2002). 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-31 

INVERTEBRATES 

Invertebrates were selected from the Utah Natural Heritage database (UDWR 2002). 

Because of the lack of distribution knowledge all invertebrates close to the Forest are 

included in the chart. If it has been determined that a species probably does not exist on 

the Forest it is removed from further consideration in later narrative. 

Table B2 – 11. Federal, State, and Global Ranking of Invertebrates 

Species 

Common 

Name 

Primary Habitat on 

Wasatch-Cache NF 

Federal 

Ranking 

State 

(UT/WY) 

Ranking 

Global 

Ranking 

Analysis 

Groupings 

Aquatic snails 

Fossaria 

rustica 

Aquatic None UT S1S2 G5 Aquatic 

Glass phsya Aquatic None UT S2 G5 Aquatic 

Green River 

Pebblesnail 

Aquatic None UT S2 G2 Aquatic 

Lance aplexa Aquatic None UT S2? G5 Aquatic 

Mountain 

marshsnail 

Aquatic/riparian None UT S2? G3 Aquatic 

Pygmy 

fossaria 

Aquatic None UT S1S2 G5 Aquatic 

Rocky 

Mountain 

Duskysnail 

Aquatic None UT S1 G3G4 Aquatic 

Terrestrial Snails

Amber glass Riparian, 

Spruce/Fir 

None UT S2? G5 Riparian, 

Spruce/Fir 

Black gloss Riparian None UT S1 G5 Riparian 

Crestless 

column 

Riparian None UT S2 G5 Riparian 

Cross 

snaggletooth 

Riparian None UT S1 G? Riparian 

Cross vertigo Riparian None UT S2 G5 Riparian 

Deseret 

mountainsnail 

Oak/Maple, on 

limestone 

None UT S2 G2 Oak/Maple 

Lyrate 

mountainsnail 

Limestone, 

mt.brust/maple/sage

None UT S2? G2G3 Generalist 

Mellow 

column 

Riparian None UT S2? G? Riparian 

Mill Creek 

mountainsnail 

N facing slopes, 

moist coniferous 

forests 

None UT S1 G1 Generalist 

Mitered Aspen/Conifer None UT S2? G? Generalist 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-32 

vertigo 

Wasatch 

mountainsnail 

Oak/Maple on 

limestone 

Candidate Ut S1 G2 Oak/Maple 

Mussels 

Western 

pearlshell 

Aquatic None UT SH G4 Aquatic 

Insects 

American 

emerald 

Springs/Bogs None UT S2 G5 Aquatic 

Black 

meadowhawk 

Wet grassy areas None UT S2? G5 Aquatic 

Bleached 

skimmer 

Spring fed ponds 

and springs 

None UT S1S2 G3 Aquatic 

Boreal 

whiteface 

Lakes and wet 

meadows 

None UT S1 G5 Aquatic 

Dot-tailed 

whiteface 

Lakes and ponds None UT S1S2 G5 Aquatic 

Hudsonian 

whiteface 

High elevation 

lakes 

None UT S1? G5 Aquatic 

Lake darner High elevation 

lakes 

None UT S1S2? G5 Aquatic 

Mountain 

emerald 

High elevation 

lakes 

None UT S2 G5 Aquatic 

Pacific 

spiketail 

Clear shady foothill 

and mt. streams 

None UT S1S2 G5 Aquatic 

Red-waisted 

whiteface 

High elevation 

lakes 

None Ut S1? G5 

Spangler’s 

hydroporus 

diving beetle 

Aquatic None UT SH GH Aquatic 

Taiga bluet Aquatic None UT S2? G5 

Zigzag darner Aquatic None UT S1S2 G5 Aquatic 

Invertebrates Species Considered: 

Most of the work on invertebrates on the Wasatch-Cache, and in Utah in general, was 

done prior to the 1950’s. Just the lack of knowledge of life cycles, habitat needs, 

presence and distribution makes it impossible to put meaningful conservation measures in 

place. It also does not lend itself well to assign a state ranking to these species. At 

present the Forest relies on surrogate measures such as grazing and riparian guidelines, 

and properly functioning condition for conservation. 

The need for basic baseline information on invertebrates dictates a coarse of inventory to 

document presence and distribution of species, and then a program of monitoring, and the 

development of conservation measures. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-33 

The one exception to this approach is with the Deseret mountainsnail (Oreohelix 

peripherica wasatchensis). This subspecies is a candidate for Federal listing. The only 

know population is on a parcel of land approximately 40 acres in size that is in three 

ownerships (Federal – Forest Service, the city of Ogden, and private). The Forest, 

working through Weber State University, has a recent inventory and Conservation 

Assessment for the species (Meadows, 2000) and a Conservation Strategy is being 

developed. Genetic work is also being done to determine if O.p. wasatchensis is indeed 

a distinct subspecies. 

Aquatic Snails 

Fossaria snail (Fossaria rustica) G5, UT-S1,S2. Known from Utah Lake and 

other localities, including streams off of the Forest. Habitat may be present on the 

Wasatch-Cache, but none of the species are known to occur. Surveys are needed 

to determine if it is extant in Utah and if so its distribution and abundance 

(UDWR 1999b, 2002). Hovingh (2000) indicated the species is quite common. 

Glass physa (Physa skinneri) G5, UT-S2. The known locations of this species 

are from the Wasatch-Cache NF and from southern Utah (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Green River pebblesnail (Fluminicola coloradoensis) G1,G2, UT-S1?. The 

species has been identified in Blacksmith’s Fork and on the Weber River close to 

the Forest boundary (UDWR 1999b, 2002). Hovingh (personal communication, 

2000) indicates the species is abundant north of the Provo River in the Upper 

Weber River and Bear River. 

Lance aplexa (Aplexa elongata) G5, UT-S2?. Known from Ogden Canyon and 

other locations near the Forest (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Mountain marshsnail (Stagnicola montanensis) G3, UT-S2?. Has been 

identified on Beaver Creek of the Logan Ranger District. (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Pygmy fossaria (Fossaria parva) G5, UT-S1,S2. Historical records from 

northern Utah, show the species in the Bountiful area in Davis county and Fort 

Union area of Salt Lake County (UDWR 1999b, 2002). Fresh water streams at 

low elevations appears to be habitat. Hovingh (2000) again indicates the species 

is quite common. 

Rocky Mountain duskysnail (Colligyrrus greggi) G3,G4, UT-S1. Two 

locations are known in Cache County (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Terrestrial Snails 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-34 

Amber glass (Nesovitrea electrina) G5, UT-S2?. This snail may use a variety of 

habitats in Utah, from spruce-fir moist areas to lower elevations, and may exist on 

the Wasatch-Cache (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Black gloss (Zonitoides nitidus) G5, UT-S1. This terrestrial species is reported 

historically on the banks of streams, and has been found on the Blacksmiths Fork 

River, Ogden Canyon and Bell’s Canyon, (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Crestless column (Pupilla hebes) G5, UT-S2. Known from 10 historic locations 

in Utah, the closest is in Little Cottonwood Canyon on the Wasatch-Cache NF 

(UDWR 1999b, 2002). The species is associated with litter under deciduous trees 

(Hovingh, personal communication, 2000). 

Cross snaggletooth (Gastrocopta quadridens) G?, UT-S1. Known from 2 

locations in the state, the closest on the Wasatch-Cache NF, in Lamb’s Canyon 

(UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Cross vertigo (Vertigo modesta) G5, UT-S2. Historically reported in Bell’s 

Canyon, Lamb’s Canyon, Weber Canyon, and Ogden Canyon. The terrestrial 

species may be associated with swampy ground (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Deseret mountainsnail (Oreohelix peripherica) G2, UT-S2. The closest 

populations of this type are on the Wasatch-Cache NF in oak/maple and limestone 

outcrops and boulder fields. (UDWR 1999b, 2002). The race O.p. wasatchensis

is a federal candidate for possible listing. 

Lyrate mountainsnail (Oreohelix haydeni) G2,G3, UT-S2?. There are 5-6 

locations on the Wasatch-Cache, with other locations near the Forest. A terrestrial 

species occupying limestone outcrops in shrub habitats (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Mellow column (Columella columella) G?, UT-S2?. Two locations are known 

to northern Utah, one being in Lamb’s Canyon (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Mill Creek mountainsnail (Oreohelix howardi) G1, UT-S1. Three populations 

are known within Mill Creek Canyon, in Salt Lake County on the Wasatch-Cache 

NF (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Mitered vertigo (Vertigo concinnula) G?, UT-S2?. Populations on the WasatchCache NF have been identified in Lamb’s Canyon, at Brighton, and in Little 

Cottonwood Canyon (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Wasatch mountainsnail (Oreohelix periferica wasatchensis) C, G2, UT-S1. 

Populations on the Wasatch-Cache, and in Utah, are limited to the mouth of 

Ogden Canyon. They may occur throughout the area from Ogden Canyon to 

Taylor Canyon but this has not been verified. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-35 

Mussels 

Western pearlshell (Margaritifera falcata) G4, UT-SH. Have been found in 

Northern Utah mostly at lower elevations adjacent to the Forest boundary 

(UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Insects 

American emerald (Cordulia shurtleffi) G5, UT-S2. There are 8 sites for this 

species, 5 on the Wasatch-Cache, 1 on the Uinta, and 2 on the Ashley, all within 

the Uinta Mountains (UDWR 1999b). 

Black meadowhawk (Sympetrum danae) G5, UT S2?. Common in wet grassy 

areas away from flowing water (Dunkle 2000).

Bleached skimmer (Libellula composita) G3, UT-S1,S2. Species is scattered and 

rare. It prefers spring fed ponds and streams (Dunkle 2000).

Boreal whiteface (Leucorrhinia borealis) G5, UT-S1). This species is found in 

high elevation lakes and wet meadows. 

Dot-tailed whiteface (Leucorrhinia intacta) G5, UT-S1,S2. Found in high lakes 

and ponds. 

Hudsonian whiteface (Leucorrhinia hudsonica) G5, UT-S1?. Found in high 

elevation lakes. 

Lake darner (Aeshna ermita) G5, UT-S1,S2?. There are known populations on 

the Wasatch-Cache NF, ranging from high mountain lakes to lower elevation 

streams (UDWR 2002). 

Mountain emerald (Somatochlora semicircularis) G5, UT-S2. This species is 

found in high elevation lakes. 

Pacific spiketail (Cordulegaster dorsaus) G5, UT-S1,S2. The species has been 

known from Red Butte Canyon (UDWR 2002). 

Red-waisted whiteface (Leucorrhinia proxima) G5, UT-S1?. Found in high 

elevation lakes. 

Spangler’s hydroporus diving beetle (Hydroporus spangleri) GH, UT-SH. 

This species is known only from its type location in Lamb’s Canyon on the 

Wasatch-Cache NF (UDWR 2002). 

Taiga bluet (Coenagrion resolutum) G5, UT-S2?. The species is found in ponds 

and lakes. Elevational range appears to be from about 5,000 feet to 8,000 feet. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-36 

Zigzag darner (Aeshna sitchensis) G5, UT-S1,S2. There are 6 locations 

identified from northern Utah in the Uinta mountains (UDWR 2002). 

Invertebrate Species Not Considered 

The following invertebrate species were not considered in the Wasatch-Cache Forest Plan 

Revision. The same discussion applies that is at the beginning of the invertebrate species 

that were considered. Known occurrences were outside of the Forest, the species’ 

occurrence on the Forest is incidental, and/or no potential habitat exists on the Forest. 

These are species for which viability is also of concern, however their main habitat is not 

associated with the Forest. They are mentioned here as they may occur within the same 

counties or adjacent to the Forest. If species are not mentioned, it is due to their locality 

being too far from the Forest to be mentioned. If inventory efforts show that any of these 

species do exist on Forest, they will be added to the list above. 

Aquatic Snails 

Ash gyro (Gyraulus parvus) G5, UT-S2?S3?. Known from 11 sites in Utah. 

None are on the Wasatch-Cache. While there may be potential habitat on the 

Forest, none are known to occur (UDWR 2002). Hovingh (personal 

communication, 2000) indicated that the species is very common across the 

country and could be taken off the list. 

Coarse ramshorn (Planorbella binneyi) G4Q, UT-S2?. Of the locations listed in 

Salt Lake County, the only probable one where the species may still occur is City 

Creek Canyon which is off Forest (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Creeping ancylid (Ferrissia rivularis) G5, UT-S2. Off Forest. The nearest 

location is East Canyon (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Desert tryonia (Tryonia protea) G3,G4, UT-S2?. A west desert, Great Basin 

species. There are 3 populations known in larger spring areas at lower elevations 

around the Stansburys (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Glossy valvata (Valvata humeralis) G5, UT-S2. Off Forest (UDWR 1999b, 

2002). 

Mud amnicola (Amnicola limosus) G5, UT-S2?. Off Forest. Closest site is 

Beck Hot Springs in 1939 (USWR 1999b, 2002). 

Swamp lymnaea (Lymnaea stagnalis) G5, UT-S2?. The closest population was 

in Utah Lake and associated ditches and streams, and is likely extirpated (UDWR 

1999b, 2002). 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-37 

Toquerville springsnail (Pyrgulopsis kolobensis) G5, UT-S?. This species is 

widespread over the Great Basin, known as a result of a coop study between the 

BLM and the Smithsonian in 1993-94. It is possible that many springsnails were 

not classed out to genus and species and lumped in this group (UDWR 2002). 

Hershler (Smithsonian) thinks that P. Kolobensis in Utah may actually be a 

complex of several undescribed, unnamed species. 

Utah physa (Physella utahensis) UT- Extirpated. Extirpated from Utah Lake, 

but occurs elsewhere in the State at low elevations (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Widelip pondsnail (Stagnicola traski) GU, UT-S2?. Two historic locations from 

northern Utah are listed, however none on the Uinta (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Potential habitat is likely limited due to elevation. 

Sharp sprite (Promenetus exacuous) G5, UT-S1,S2. Populations in Lamb’s 

Canyon and three other locations at lower elevations (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Southern Bonneville springsnail (Pyrgulopsis transversa) G2, UT-S1,S2. 

There are populations of this species off Forest in the vicinity of the Stansbury’s 

and Vernon Units. Habitat and the species could occur on Forest (UDWR 2002). 

Striate disc (Discus shimelii) G4, UT-S2. Eight locations were historically 

reported in Utah from high altitudes. One of these is in Logan Canyon (UDWR 

1999b, 2002). 

Terrestrial Snails 

Rustic ambersnail (Succinea rusticana) G?, UT-S2?. Off Forest at lower 

elevations on the Wasatch Front and in Cache Valley (UDWR 2002). 

Texas glyph (Glyphyalinia umbilicata) G5, UT-S1?. Historically reported from 

near the Wasatch-Cache NF in cottonwood groves (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Widespread column (Pupilla muscorum) G4, UT-S1?. Off Forest. Closest 

location is City Creek Canyon (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Mussels 

California floater (Anodonta californiensis) G3, UT-S1. This species is in the 

Bear River drainage. It may go onto the Forest (UDWR 1999b, 2002, Hovingh, 

personal comm. 2000). 

Oregon floater (Anodonta oregonensis) G5, UT-S1,S2?. Located in Utah, Salt 

Lake and Davis Counties, this species may be extirpated (UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Hovingh (2000) stated that the species is only found in Utah Lake and below the 

Forest boundary in Farmington Creek and probably does not exist on the Forest. 
Final Environmental Impact Statement – Appendices 

Wasatch-Cache National Forest B2-38 

Winged floater (Anodonta nuttalliana) G3,G4, UT-S2?. Historically located in 

Utah Lake, in Farmington Canyon and at lower elevations in Salt Lake County 

(UDWR 1999b, 2002). 

Insects 

California darner (Aeshna californica) G5, UT-S2. Known from 8 sites in 

Utah, none on the Wasatch-Cache NF. Habitat is likely lower elevation ponds 

and marshes (UDWR 2002). 

Nokomis fritillary (Speyeria nokomis nokomis) G3, UT-S2?. The species is 

known from the Duchesne River at lower elevations (UDWR 2002)

Plains clubttail (Gomphus externus) G5, UT-S2. Off Forest at lower elevations 

along the Wasatch Front (UDWR 2002). 

Conservation Approaches of Invertebrates 

Invertebrates present a unique problem in that so little is known about them. Most survey 

work was accomplished prior to 1950 and work was very spotty. There has been no 

Forest wide survey of invertebrates to determine species composition and distribution. 

Forest direction will be to inventory streams and terrestrial habitats used by the 

invertebrates of concern to determine what is present and the distribution of the different 

species. With this knowledge the Forest can then develop conservation strategies and 

agreements, as necessary. Goals, subgoals, standards, and guidelines under Watershed 

Health and Biodiversity and Viability offer the protection needed for these species until 

more specific measures are determined to be necessary.