United States 

Department of 

Agriculture 

 

Forest 

Service 

R10-MB-626 

July 2008 

For Information Contact: 

Greg Killinger, District Ranger 

Craig Ranger District 

P.O. Box 500 

Craig, AK 99921-9998 

(907) 826-3271 

Scratchings Timber 

Sale

Record of Decision II 

USDA Forest Service 

Suemez Island 
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Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-1 

Scratchings Timber Sale 

Record of Decision II 

USDA Forest Service 

Craig Ranger District 

Tongass National Forest 

Alaska Region 

Introduction

The Scratchings Timber Sale project area is located on Suemez Island, west of Prince of 

Wales Island and 12 miles southwest of Craig, on the Tongass National Forest in southeast 

Alaska. Suemez Island is 37,127 acres in size, 35,960 acres of which are National Forest 

System lands. In the northwest corner of the island, the remaining 1,167-acre parcel is owned 

by the University of Alaska. Suemez Island is only accessible by water or air. 

This Record of Decision (ROD) documents my decision to implement timber harvest within 

units that were analyzed in the Scratchings Timber Sale Final Environmental Impact 

Statement (Final EIS) but deferred in the March 2007 Record of Decision. The seven harvest 

units and associated road construction were postponed in accordance with the provisions of 

the settlement agreement1

 with the Natural Resources Defense Council, Organized Village of 

Kake and the Southeast Alaska Conservation Council, et al. The settlement agreement sought 

to resolve issues regarding timber harvest in roadless areas and delayed the issuance of RODs 

 

1 “Settlement agreement” refers to the agreement made in the disposition of Natural Resources Defense 

Council, et al., v. U.S. Forest Service, et al., Case Nos. 1:03-cv-0029-JKS, 1:04-cv 0010-JKS, 1_04-cv-0029-

JKS and 1:06-cv-0005-JWS. 
Scratchings

R-2  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

for timber harvest in those areas until after the completion of the 2008 Tongass Land and 

Resource Management Plan (2008 Forest Plan). 

The agreement stipulated that: 

“. . . the Forest Service will not sign new records of decision (RODs) or other decision 

documents for timber sales in inventoried roadless areas (as shown on the 2003 Final 

Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for TLMP) or on Kuiu Island until 30 days 

after the publication in the Federal Register of the notice of availability for the final 

environmental impact statement (Final EIS) for the TLMP review process now underway 

unless the Forest Service designates a later effective date for the new plan, in which case the 

Forest Service will not sign new RODs or other decision documents for timber sales in 

inventoried roadless areas or on Kuiu Island until the effective date designated by the Forest 

Service. 

For the Scratchings project, the Forest Service may complete an EIS that considers roaded 

and roadless options, but will not issue a decision document that authorizes logging or road 

construction in inventoried roadless areas until 30 days after publication in the Federal 

Register of the notice of availability of the Final EIS for the TLMP review process now 

underway unless the Forest Service designates a later effective date for the new plan, in 

which case the Forest Service will not issue a decision document that authorizes logging or 

road construction in inventoried roadless areas until the effective date designated by the 

Forest Service. This provision does not affect decision documents for the Scratchings project 

that authorize logging exclusively outside of inventoried roadless areas.” 

Alternative 3 of the Scratchings Final EIS was selected for implementation, but was modified 

to postpone harvest in the six units located within Inventoried Roadless Area (IRA) 502, and 

the one unit of which all but approximately 20 acres were in IRA 502. The construction of 

National Forest System (NFS) Road 1086500, designed as access to these units, was also 

delayed in the initial ROD. 

The decision for the 2008 Forest Plan was signed on January 23, 2008. The notice of 

availability of the 2008 Forest Plan was placed in the Federal Register on February 15, 2008. 

The effective date for implementation of the 2008 Forest Plan was 30 days from the notice. 

This second ROD for Scratchings Timber Sale meets the conditions set forth in the 

settlement agreement for the Natural Resources Defense Council, et al; therefore, the seven 

harvest units and associated road construction from the first Scratchings decision may now 

be included in this subsequent ROD. 

Decision

My decision encompasses the following: 

 The location, amount, and method of timber harvest, road construction, log transfer 

facilities, and silvicultural practices (ROD Appendix 1, Unit Cards); 

 Road management objectives (ROD Appendix 2, Road Cards); 

 Any necessary project-specific design criteria, mitigation measures, and monitoring 

requirements; and 
Record of Decision II 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-3 

 A finding on significant restrictions on subsistence uses. 

This decision is based on the environmental analysis in the March 2007 Scratchings Timber 

Sale Final EIS. That analysis incorporated agency, tribal, and public comments received 

during the comment period on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). It is 

responsive to issues raised during scoping, information gathered during the environmental 

analysis development, and addresses public and agency comments on the Draft EIS. This 

decision meets the Purpose and Need for the project; and is consistent with the transition 

language of the 2008 Forest Plan decision. 

Description of this Decision 

In the March 2007 Scratchings Timber Sale Final EIS ROD, the Selected Alternative 

modified Alternative 3 by deferring implementation of harvest in Units 634-067, 634-068, 

634-069, 634-070, 634-073, 634-098, and 634-111. These units are located all or partially 

within the Suemez IRA 502 (Figure R-1). IRA 502 is considered a lower value roadless area 

in the 2008 Forest Plan and is available for harvest as part of the Timber Sale Program 

Adaptive Management Strategy. 

The first ROD also deferred construction of NFS Road 1086500, which provides access to 

the harvest units. Both the road construction and unit harvest will now be implemented as 

part of the Scratchings Record of Decision II. 

This ROD authorizes harvesting of timber from approximately 177 acres, which includes 

approximately 157 acres in IRA 502 and about 20 acres outside of IRA 502. Timber harvest 

will provide an estimated 3 million board feet of timber harvest volume. Design features and 

mitigation measures for the harvest units are described in detail on the unit cards in Appendix 

1 of this Record of Decision. 

This decision authorizes building about 0.8 mile of NFS road (Road 1086500) that will 

provide access to Units 634-067 and 634-068, and to serve as a helicopter landing for Units 

634-111 and 634-073. Also authorized are about 1.4 miles of temporary roads for access to 

Units 634-068 and 634-069. At the conclusion of harvest activities, all temporary roads will 

be decommissioned, and all drainage structures removed. NFS Road 1086500 will have all 

drainage structures removed and placed into storage. Design features and mitigation 

measures are described in ROD Appendix 1 (Unit Cards) and Appendix 2 (Road Card). 

The Selected Alternative for the 2007 Scratchings ROD modified the four small Old-growth 

Reserves (OGRs) in Value Comparison Units (VCUs) 6330, 6340, 6350, and 6370, through a 

non-significant amendment to the 1997 Forest Plan. An interagency team of biologists 

further refined these small OGRs during the analysis for the 2008 Forest Plan. No further 

adjustments to OGRs are proposed as a part of this ROD for the Scratchings project area. 

Reasons for Decision 

In making my decision, I considered the many issues raised during the development and 

scoping of this project, the Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines relevant to the project area, 

and the competing interests and values of the public. Many divergent public and agency 

opinions were expressed during the analysis, and have helped make a better-informed 
Scratchings

R-4  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

decision. I have considered all views that have been expressed, and have incorporated them 

into the project where feasible and consistent with the project purpose and need, laws and 

regulations. 

I considered the need to help provide a sustained level of timber supply to seek to meet 

annual and Forest Plan planning cycle market demand, and to provide diverse opportunities 

for natural resource employment, consistent with multiple use and sustained yield of all 

renewable forest resources. The estimated 3 MMBF of timber resulting from harvest of these 

7 units will help meet Southeast Alaska timber supply needs. 

To insure the consequences of project implementation will fall within acceptable bounds, I 

have considered cumulative watershed effects including those of past harvest. 

Implementation of actions associated with this decision, such as road building, bridge 

construction and culvert installation could temporarily increase sediment delivery to streams. 

Current science also suggests that water yield and peak flows in stream channels may 

increase when forest canopies are decreased by more than 20 percent. Any increases in water 

yield and sedimentation are anticipated to be minor. Design measures described in the 

Scratchings project record, including the implementation of BMPs, are expected to maintain 

water quality within standards established by the State of Alaska and are not expected to 

degrade fish habitat. Following harvest activity, new road segment 1086500 will be placed in 

storage. Road storage will reduce long-term risks of sedimentation and inhibited fish passage. 

By putting road segment 1086500 in storage and by decommissioning all temporary roads 

following harvest activities, my decision to implement this action also responds to road 

maintenance cost issues. 

This decision includes partial harvest and/or even-aged harvest with reserves, using both 

helicopter and short-span cable logging systems. Unit prescriptions are based on 

consideration of resource objectives, which are described in Chapter 3 of the Final EIS, and 

on a unit-by-unit basis in the unit cards. Even-aged harvest will help reduce windthrow in 

stands determined to be of moderate to high risk. 

I considered the public’s concerns related to subsistence uses, fish and deer being the highest 

uses in nearby communities. Hearings on subsistence were held in Craig and Hydaburg. No 

oral testimony was received at these hearings. 

In addition to these hearings, an informal open house was held on a separate date in Craig, as 

an opportunity for the public to voice any concerns or preferences they might have on 

management activities in the project area. 

I considered the public’s concern related to cumulative effects of past harvest and concerns 

for specific watersheds. The IDT analyzed cumulative effects at a scale appropriate to each 

resource. The analysis determined that application of the 2008 Forest Plan standards and 

guidelines maintain fish and wildlife and their habitat, as well as other resource values and 

uses. Primary concerns for past harvest that were raised during scoping centered on the 

Dolores watershed, near Port Dolores. The seven units in this decision all fall within the 

Indiana and West watersheds adjacent to Port Santa Cruz, and will not affect the Dolores 

watershed. 

The 2008 Forest Plan expanded some existing Special Interest Areas (SIA) for protection of 

their geologic features. Suemez Island Geological Area was one of those expansions. The 
Record of Decision II 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-5 

Suemez Island Geologic Area is located on the southwest portion of Suemez Island and 

encompasses the area of volcanic vents and flows between Cape Felix, Arena Cove and Port 

Santa Cruz. Features of this area include various surface flow types, obsidian sources, 

volcanic vents, and other unique geologic features, such as the formations found on the beach 

west of Cape Felix, and a waterfall and grotto near the western margin of the volcanic area. 

The timber sale harvest units that are part of this decision fall outside of the SIA and, 

therefore, are not anticipated to have an impact on its features. 

Though some karst and related features are found on Suemez Island, these areas are not 

proximal to these harvest units. No direct, indirect or cumulative effects to karst are expected 

as a result of project implementation. 

In making this decision, I considered the comments received on the 2008 Forest Plan 

Amendment Draft EIS regarding climate change and reviewed the analysis in the 2008 Forest 

Plan Amendment Final EIS. The forest-wide analysis discusses the considerable uncertainty 

concerning specific predictions for how the climate may change and even more uncertainty 

regarding the effects of climate change on the resources of the Tongass National Forest. In 

this context, climate change is not essential to a reasoned choice among the alternatives 

considered in the Scratchings Timber Sale project analysis. The Tongass National Forest will 

continue to monitor potential effects of climate change through the existing Forest Plan 

monitoring programs and other studies that are happening regionally and nationally. Existing 

procedures will be used to address any need for a different course of action that might affect 

this decision. 

I evaluated the trade-off between resource protection, social values, and timber sale 

economics. My decision to implement harvest in these units provides a beneficial mix of 

resources for the public, within a framework of existing laws, regulations, policies, public 

needs and desires, and the capabilities of the land, while meeting the Purpose and Need for 

this project. My decision to implement this decision conforms to the Forest Plan and the 

National Forest Management Act (NFMA). 

2008 Forest Plan 

The 2008 amendment to the Forest Plan was completed using the 1982 planning regulations 

during the time the environmental analysis for Scratchings EIS was being conducted. The 

Forest Plan Amendment DEIS was released in January 2007, with an extended public 

comment period ending on April 30, 2007. The 2008 Forest Plan was completed with the 

signing of the ROD on January 23, 2008 and became effective on March 17, 2008. The 2008 

Forest Plan ROD adopts a Timber Sale Program Adaptive Management Strategy, under 

which portions of the suitable land base become available for project-level planning in three 

phases. These phases respond to levels of actual timber harvest. My decision to implement 

the Scratchings ROD II decision conforms to the 2008 Forest Plan and sound National Forest 

System management. 

During Phase 1, timber harvest will be restricted to developed areas and lower value roadless 

areas as defined in the 2008 Forest Plan. Harvest will be generally restricted from the suitable 

land base within Phase II and III areas until actual market thresholds are met. The Timber 
Scratchings

R-6  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

Sale Program Adaptive Management Strategy designates the Scratchings ROD II project area 

as being within Phase I suitable timber base. 

The 2008 Forest Plan ROD also contains transition language for timber sale projects that 

were already being planned. This language identifies three different categories of projects, 

depending on how far along the projects are in the planning process. The Scratchings project 

is identified as falling within Category 2, which requires me to review the project and 

incorporate the new direction in the 2008 Forest Plan to the extent this can be done without 

causing major disruption in the implementation of the project. 

Timber sales in Category 2 include those with a Final Environmental Impact Statement, but 

with no Record of Decision as a result of the May 18, 2007 Settlement Agreement in Natural 

Resources Defense Council v. Forest Service, Case No. 1:03-cv-00029-JKS (approved by 

Alaska District Court on May 25, 2007). The effects of these actions have already been 

disclosed to the public through site-specific and project-level environmental documents. 

Projects in Category 2 have been reviewed and found consistent with the goals and objectives 

of the 2008 Forest Plan. Additionally, the inclusion of these units in the Settlement 

Agreement is the rationale for authorizing timber harvest now. 

The 2008 Forest Plan brings forward the conservation measures for habitat connectivity from 

the 1997 Forest Plan, as well as the standards and guidelines for landscape connectivity and 

for endemic terrestrial mammals. To ensure the intent to maintain connectivity between large 

and medium old growth reserves, minor changes to the 1997 Plan guidelines were made in 

the 2008 Plan. 

The endemic terrestrial mammal standard was modified to allow the use of existing inventory 

data on endemic mammal distribution when analyzing effects of proposed management 

projects. Surveys would still be necessary where existing information is not adequate, in 

order to assess project-level effects. 

The 1997 Forest Plan structure retention guidelines for marten and goshawk have been 

replaced in the 2008 Forest Plan amendment by a legacy forest guideline. Neither the old nor 

the new guidelines apply on Suemez Island. 

Approximately 90,000 acres were added to the network of small Old-Growth Habitat 

reserves in the 2008 Forest Plan. Some of these additional acres were previously allocated to 

development Land Use Designations (LUDs). In addition, there were some refinements made 

to the boundaries of some small old-growth reserves. 

The 2008 Scratchings Final EIS addresses wolf mortality as a result of road access and other 

factors. The Selected Alternative for the 2008 Forest Plan Final EIS has a similar viability 

rating for wolves in comparison to the 1997 Forest Plan. Implementation of this decision is 

not anticipated to have unacceptable affects to wolf mortality and is consistent with 2008 

Forest Plan direction. 

Sacred sites consultation with tribal governments is required in project planning. Tribal 

relations are an aspect of the work of all resource disciplines. Consultations have been and 

continue to be conducted with the tribal governments and Native corporations of Craig, 

Klawock, and Hydaburg. During these meetings, the Scratchings EIS was highlighted and 

concerns were solicited. One concern was raised during the development of the Scratchings 

EIS, and was addressed by changes to Heritage (Archaeology and History) Section in 
Record of Decision II 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-7 

Chapter 3 of the Scratchings Final EIS. No other comments addressing heritage resources 

have been received from tribal entities. 

Significant Issues

In making my decision, I considered all the issues identified during the planning process, 

particularly the three significant issues. 

Issues for the Scratchings project were identified through public and internal scoping and 

further defined after analyzing comments on the Draft EIS. Issues were identified early in the 

process and guided the analysis through the Draft and Final EIS. The following summary 

discloses how the selection of this Alternative addresses each of the significant issues. 

Chapter 3 of the Draft and Final EIS supplement the following discussion. Table 2-2 in the 

Scratchings Final EIS provides a comparison of the alternatives. 

Issue 1: Timber Harvest Economics 

Comments indicated that people are concerned about economically viable timber sales and 

the impact of timber harvest on the livelihoods of residents of Southeast Alaska. 

The Scratchings units in this ROD will provide an estimated 3 MMBF of timber that 

contribute to market demand in a manner consistent with the 2008 Forest Plan standards and 

guidelines for all resources. Timber from this project is needed as a component of the timber 

sale schedule and is designed to provide raw material to industry in an even flow over the 5-

year planning cycle. 

I considered the need to seek to provide a long-term, stable supply of timber for local 

sawmills and timber operators. This decision contributes to the annual planning cycle market 

demand while managing these lands for sustained long-term yields, consistent with sound 

multiple-use and sustained-yield objectives. At the same time, the decision implements the 

2008 Forest Plan direction. 

I considered the need to provide diverse opportunities for natural resource related 

employment, and to contribute to local and regional economies. Timber harvested as a result 

of this decision could help to support local and regional economies. Implementation of the 

decision will support an estimated 12 to 17 jobs in the local community. This range of jobs 

accounts for the variety of options timber purchasers have under the limited interstate 

shipping policy. To respond to market and industry conditions, purchasers may elect to 

process all the sawlogs locally or ship up to 50 percent of the total sawlog volume to markets 

outside Alaska. For this project, this could be primarily interstate shipment to the lower 48 of 

unprocessed Sitka spruce and western hemlock sawlogs that are: a) smaller than 15 inches in 

diameter at the small end of a 40-foot log, or b) grade 3 or grade 4 logs of any diameter. 

Currently, Alaska yellow cedar identified as surplus to Alaska domestic needs may be 

exported to domestic and foreign markets at the purchaser’s option, with the approval of the 

Regional Forester. Western redcedar that is surplus to Alaska domestic needs may be 

available for exports if local markets do not respond to purchasers offer to sell at a 

government set price. Prior to export, an approval is required by the Regional Forester and a 

price adjustment is made to the purchaser to compensate for the export values. 
Scratchings

R-8  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

Because the impacts to other resources such as recreation, scenery, and watershed meet the 

Forest Plan and effects are expected to be moderate or less, I do not expect changes to other 

natural resource related employment. 

Timber harvest economics for the 7 units were analyzed as part of Alternative 3 in the 

Scratchings Final EIS. Actual appraised value for any sale that is advertised for bid will 

depend on the amount of volume offered; road costs; logging systems used; and the market 

conditions at the time of the appraisal. The actual bid rate and value will be determined 

through the Residual Value at the time of the sale offer for these units. 

Issue 2: Cumulative Impacts on the Dolores Watershed 

from Road Building and Timber Harvest 

Comments indicated concern about harvesting timber and road construction in the Dolores 

Watershed because of the amount of past management activities that occurred there. Units 

that are in this decision are not within the Dolores Watershed, nor will there be effects to the 

Dolores Watershed with the implementation of this ROD. All harvest units fall within the 

West and Indiana Watersheds. 

Issue 3: Timber Harvest and Road Construction in 

Roadless Areas and Unroaded Areas

Comments indicated there are ongoing concerns about timber harvest or road construction in 

roadless areas. This decision covers seven timber harvest units, of which all but about 20 

acres are within Inventoried Roadless Area 502 Suemez Island (IRA 502). 

Approximately 156 acres of IRA 502 are within timber harvest units with this decision. 

Harvest would reduce the area containing roadless character from 24,356 acres to 23,670 

acres. This includes an area of 600 feet around harvest units and 1200 feet along each side of 

roads that would no longer maintain roadless characteristics. These distances are based on the 

process used for the roadless inventory completed for the 2003 Forest Plan Supplemental 

Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS), which was incorporated into the 2008 Forest Plan. 

The unique geological values of the inventoried roadless area are now located within the 

Special Interest Area LUD as allocated by the 2008 Forest Plan decision. 

I considered the effects of proposed harvesting and associated road construction on the 

roadless character of Inventoried Roadless Area 502. The effects to roadless character will be 

minimized by decommissioning and/or placing roads in storage after harvest. Furthermore, 

harvest methods include helicopter logging, requiring less road construction than with only 

ground-based methods. 

Alternatives Considered in the Scratchings Final EIS

The Scratchings Final EIS considered five alternatives. Each action alternative was consistent 

with the 1997 Forest Plan, which was in effect at that time. The selected alternative for the 

2007 Scratchings ROD was a modified Alternative 3, deferring 7 units from harvest. For a 

complete description of all the alternatives and the effects of their implementation, refer to 
Record of Decision II 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-9 

Chapter 2 and Chapter 3 of the Scratchings Final EIS. A comparison of the alternatives is in 

the 2007 Scratchings Final EIS in Table 2-2. The alternatives considered in the EIS were as 

follows. 

Alternative 1—No action would occur in the project area at this time, no harvest of timber 

sale units and no road construction. 

Alternative 2—this alternative proposed to construct more than 2 miles of road across 

University of Alaska lands, needed to access harvest units in Port Dolores. Alternative 2 

proposed to provide more than 36 million board feet (MMBF) of timber from 1,919 acres. 

Road construction would have totaled 7 miles of temporary road and 12 miles of NFS roads. 

All newly constructed roads and about 11 miles of existing NFS road would have been 

placed in storage under this alternative. Approximately 10 miles of existing NFS road would 

have remained open after all harvest and road activities. 

Alternative 2 would have modified the project area small old-growth reserves to meet the 

minimum Forest Plan standards and guidelines. 

Alternative 3—this alternative proposed to provide up to 25 MMBF of timber from 

approximately 1,376 acres. Proposed road construction included 5 miles of temporary roads 

and 7 miles of NFS road. All newly constructed roads and about 11 miles of existing NFS 

road would be placed in storage or decommissioned under this alternative. Approximately 10 

miles of existing NFS road would have remained open after all harvest and road activities. 

Alternative 3 would have modified the project area small old-growth reserves to meet the 

minimum Forest Plan standards and guidelines as recommended by an interagency group of 

biologists. 

Alternative 4—this alternative proposed to harvest up to 17 MMBF of timber from 

approximately 1,059 acres. Proposed road construction would have built about 3 miles of 

temporary road and 4 miles of NFS road. All newly constructed roads and about 11 miles of 

existing NFS road would be placed in storage or decommissioned under this alternative. 

Approximately 10 miles of existing NFS road would have remained open after all harvest 

and road activities. 

Alternative 4 proposed to modify the small old-growth reserves as recommended by an 

interagency group of biologists. 

Alternative 5—this alternative would have provided up to 20 MMBF of timber from 

approximately 1,030 acres. Proposed road construction would have built about 4 miles of 

temporary road, about 250 feet of which would have crossed University of Alaska lands, for 

access to Unit 634-004. All newly constructed roads and about 11 miles of existing NFS road 

would be placed in storage or decommissioned under this alternative. Approximately 10 

miles of existing NFS road would have remained open after all harvest and road activities. 

Alternative 5 proposed to modify the small old-growth reserves as recommended by an 

interagency group of biologists. 
Scratchings

R-10  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

Alternatives Considered in this Decision 

Two alternatives were considered in this Scratchings ROD II decision. Both are consistent 

with the Forest Plan and the effects described in Chapters 2 and 3 of the Scratchings Final 

EIS. 

Alternative 1—No action (no harvest of Units 634-067, 634-068, 634-069, 634-070, 634-

073, 634-111, 634-098) 

Alternative 2—Harvest of Units 634-067, 634-068, 634-069, 634-070, 634-073, 634-111, 

634-098, and construction of 0.8 mile of NFS road as well as approximately 1.4 miles of 

temporary road. 

Public Involvement 

Public involvement has been instrumental in the identification and clarification of issues for 

this project. This has been helpful in the formulation of alternatives and has assisted me in 

making a more informed decision for the Scratchings project. Public hearings, Federal

Register notices, an open house, government-to-government consultation, and the Tongass 

National Forest Schedule of Proposed Actions, were used to solicit input for this project. 

Notice of Intent (NOI) 

A Notice of Intent to publish an EIS was printed in the Federal Register on July 6, 2005, 

when it was decided that an EIS was to be undertaken for the project. 

Public Mailing 

On July 7, 2005, a scoping letter providing information and seeking public comment was 

mailed to individuals and groups that had previously shown interest in Forest Service 

projects in Southeast Alaska. The mailing list included people who had requested to be on the 

mailing list; those who previously expressed interest in timber sale proposals; and those who 

either own property or conduct business within or near the project area. The mailing list also 

included many local, state, and federal agencies and federally recognized tribal governments 

with whom the USDA Forest Service routinely consults during project planning for the Craig 

and Thorne Bay Ranger Districts. The Craig Ranger District received 35 responses to this 

mailing. The DEIS was mailed in August 2006. Eleven comment letters on the DEIS were 

received and included in Appendix 2 of the Final EIS. 

Open House

An open house that presented information on the Scratchings project was held July 28, 2005 

at the Craig Ranger District conference room. This open house provided information on the 

project and provided an opportunity for the public to voice any concerns or preferences they 

might have about management activities in the project area. 

Draft EIS 
Record of Decision II 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-11 

Availability of Draft EIS for Public Comment 

The Notice of Availability of this Draft EIS was published in the Federal Register on August 

4, 2006 starting the 45-day public comment period. Legal notice was published in the Juneau

Empire, the official newspaper of record at the time, and in the Ketchikan Daily News on 

August 4, 2006. Legal notice was published in the Island News on August 7, 2006. The Draft 

EIS was mailed to everyone on the project mailing list, and to all others who requested a 

copy. The Draft EIS was also made available at the Craig Ranger District and was mailed to 

public libraries throughout Southeast Alaska. 

Subsistence Hearings 

Subsistence hearings were held in Craig on July 19, 2006 and Hydaburg on July 20, 2006. 

No oral testimony was received at either of these hearings. A single written comment 

received from the Hydaburg hearing stated that the Scratchings project was too large of a 

sale. 

The open house that presented information on the Scratchings project was held July 28, 2005 

at the Craig Ranger District conference room. It provided an additional opportunity to share 

concerns regarding subsistence activities. No subsistence comments resulted from that 

meeting. 

Analysis and Incorporation of Public Comments 

Public comments and subsistence comments were analyzed and incorporated into the Final 

EIS. Several comments were received regarding timber harvest in the Dolores Watershed and 

in the Suemez Inventoried Roadless Area, and timber sale supply and economics. For an 

analysis of public comment and the Forest Service response to public comment, see 

Appendix B of the Final EIS. 

Final EIS 

Publication of the Final Environmental Impact Statement 

The Notice of Availability of the Scratchings Final EIS was published in the Federal

Register. Legal notices were published in the Juneau Empire, the official newspaper of 

record at the time, and in the Ketchikan Daily News and the Island News. Copies of the Final 

EIS and Record of Decision were mailed to Federal and State agencies, federally recognized 

tribal governments, public libraries throughout Southeast Alaska, and to those who requested 

copies of the Final EIS or who responded to the Draft EIS. The Final EIS is also available at 

the Craig Ranger District Office. No appeals were made of this decision. 

Record of Decision, 2007 

The Record of Decision was signed on March 12, 2007. This decision selected a modified 

Alternative 3, deferring harvest of seven units located partially or entirely within Suemez 

Inventoried Roadless Area 502, and deferring the construction of the National Forest System 

road needed to access them. The seven units and new road were deferred under the 
Scratchings

R-12  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

stipulations and for the time period specified in the Settlement Agreement. No appeals of this 

decision were received. 

Record of Decision II, 2008 

This ROD addresses the seven harvest units and one NFS Road which were part of 

Alternative 3 in the Scratchings Final EIS, but deferred under the stipulations and for the 

time period specified in the Settlement Agreement. 

Consultation with Tribal Governments 

Letters providing information and inviting government-to-government consultation were sent 

to tribes in May 2005 prior to public scoping for the Scratchings EIS. These letters were sent 

to the following federally recognized tribes and Alaska Native corporations: Klawock 

Cooperative Association; Klawock Heenya Corporation; Craig Community Association; 

Shaan Seet Inc.; Hydaburg Cooperative Association; Haida Corporation; the Organized 

Village of Kasaan; Kavilco Inc.; Ketchikan Indian Community; the Central Council of 

Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska; and Sealaska Corporation. The letters were 

followed by telephone calls to all federally recognized tribal governments on Prince of Wales 

Island. No comments or responses to these letters were received. 

The Craig District Ranger and acting District Ranger attended tribal council meetings on 

Prince of Wales Island in October 2005 to highlight high interest projects on the Craig and 

Thorne Bay Ranger Districts and to review the 2006 program of work. The Scratchings 

Timber Sale project was highlighted and concerns were solicited. On September 26, 2006, a 

meeting was held in Craig between the Tongass National Forest and representatives of the 

Craig, Klawock, and Hydaburg Tribal Councils. The focus of that meeting was the 2008 

Forest Plan; however, the Scratchings Timber Sale project was discussed as well. 

During the late winter and spring of 2006 the Prince of Wales Island District Rangers or 

acting Rangers attended tribal council meetings to highlight the year’s active projects. The 

Scratchings Timber Sale project was discussed at each of these meetings. Meetings were held 

in February, March, and April 2006 in Hydaburg, Klawock, and Craig. No comments 

regarding Scratchings planning were received at these meetings. 

Following distribution of the Scratchings Draft EIS in August 2006, additional tribal 

consultation was conducted. A comment letter was received from the Craig Community 

Association, which led to modification to the Heritage Resources section of Chapter 3 in the 

Final EIS. Letters presenting the 2007 program of work for the Craig and Thorne Bay Ranger 

Districts were mailed to tribes in mid-December 2006. During January 2007, the Craig 

District Ranger or acting Ranger attended tribal council meetings in Hydaburg, Klawock, and 

Craig. The Scratchings Timber Sale project was discussed and the timeline for completion 

explained. The Scratching EIS and implementation were included in a list of Forest Service 

Projects on Prince of Wales Island discussed at Island-Wide Tribal/Forest Service 

consultations on October 29, 2007 and April 7, 2008. No comments were received at these 

meetings. Ongoing dialogue is planned. 
Record of Decision II 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-13 

Coordination with Other Agencies 

The Alaska Coastal Management Plan (ACMP) consistency review process was initiated 

upon publication of the Draft EIS through the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, 

Office of Project Management and Permitting. The Office of Project Management and 

Permitting concurred with our determination. 

A Biological Assessment was prepared and sent to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 

(USFWS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) as part of the Section 7 

consultation process under the Endangered Species Act. Both agencies concurred with our 

findings. 

To comply with the essential fish habitat (EFH) agreement, the Forest Service prepared an 

EFH assessment. The EFH assessment was sent to NMFS, which concurred with the finding 

that Scratchings Timber Sale may adversely affect EFH. 

The State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) has been consulted, in accordance with 

Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) and 36 Code of Federal 

Regulation (CFR) Part 800. Native communities have been contacted and public comment 

encouraged. The Forest Service has satisfied the consultation process with the State Historic 

Preservation Officer. No effects on known heritage resources are anticipated. See discussion 

under Heritage Resources in Chapter 3 of the Final EIS for more details. 

The Final EIS identified the agencies that were informed of and/or involved in the planning 

process (see List of Agencies, Organizations, and Individuals Sent Copies of the EIS in 

Chapter 4 of the Final EIS). 

An interagency team of biologists representing the USFWS, Alaska Department of Fish and 

Game (ADFG), and the Forest Service reviewed small old-growth reserves (OGRs) for 

location and function, including those on Suemez Island. The Scratchings ROD included an 

amendment to the Forest Plan for changes to OGRs in VCUs 6330, 6340, 6350 and 6370. 

Project Record 

The project record for Scratchings project includes the Draft EIS, Final EIS, 1997 Forest Plan 

and the 2008 Forest Plan, as well as material incorporated by reference, and all materials 

produced during the environmental analysis of this project. The project record is available for 

review at the Craig Ranger District. 

Mitigation

Mitigation measures are prescribed to avoid, reduce, or eliminate the adverse effects of 

actions. These measures were applied in the development of the project alternatives, 

including this decision, and in the design of the harvest units and road corridors. 

As noted in the Mitigation section of Chapter 2 in the Scratchings Final EIS, additional 

archaeological surveys and/or monitoring will be done in conjunction with road and unit 

harvest layout to identify potential obsidian quarry sites or tool manufacturing sites. If a 
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R-14  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

significant historic property is located during these surveys or monitoring, development of 

roads or units will cease at that location until the Forest Service, in consultation with SHPO, 

can craft a mitigation strategy. This scope of the strategy would depend on the extent and 

character of the historic property, and may range from small scale data recovery to dropping 

the unit or road. SHPO has concurred with a determination of no adverse affect with the 

implementation of this mitigation strategy. 

The Mitigation Measures section of Chapter 2, Unit Cards and Road Cards of the Scratchings 

Final EIS and appendices to this Record of Decision discuss mitigation measures for the 

action alternative. 

Monitoring

A monitoring program is the process by which the Forest Service can evaluate whether the 

resource management objectives of the final environmental documents have been 

implemented as specified and whether the steps identified for mitigating the environmental 

effects were effective. Project-level monitoring is specified in Chapter 2 of the Final EIS and 

prescribed on the unit cards for all harvest units (ROD Appendix 1). These monitoring items 

are part of this decision. 

Findings Required By Law

Several of the laws and executive orders listed in Chapter 1 of the Final EIS require projectspecific findings or other disclosures. They apply to all alternatives considered in detail. 

National Forest Management Act 

The National Forest Management Act (NFMA) requires specific determinations in this 

Record of Decision: consistency with existing Forest Plans; a determination of clearcutting as 

the optimum method of harvesting, if used, and specific authorizations to create openings 

over 100 acres in size. Specific information and rationale used to develop unit prescriptions 

is shown on unit cards (ROD Appendix 1), in Chapter 3 of the Draft and Final EIS, and in the 

project record. 

Clearcutting as the Optimum Method of Harvesting 

The 2008 Forest Plan gives guidance on when to use even-aged management. Clearcutting 

(an even-aged method) may be used in this project to preclude or minimize the occurrence of 

potentially adverse impacts from windthrow. It is applied where windthrow potential is a 

concern. Clearcutting is also used to minimize mistletoe infestations, logging damage or 

other factors affecting forest health. Specific information and rationale for use of this 

prescription is shown in the silvicultural prescriptions (which are a part of the project 

planning record) and in Chapter 3 of the Scratchings Draft and Final EIS. 
Record of Decision II 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-15 

Harvest Openings Over 100 Acres in Size 

The Scratchings project complies with all resource integration and management requirements 

of 36 CFR 219 (219.14 through 219.27), through application of Forest Plan standards and 

guidelines at the project level. No openings will be created that are in excess of 100 acres. 

Forest Service Transportation Final Administrative Policy (Roads 

Rule)

The Scratchings Final EIS, Scratchings ROD and Scratchings ROD II were prepared to be 

consistent with the Forest Service Transportation Final Administrative Policy, the Tongass 

National Forest Level Road Analysis (January 2003), and the Suemez Island Travel 

Management Plan. The Suemez Island Travel Management Plan is consistent with the Prince 

of Wales Access and Travel Management Plan Environmental Analysis that is currently in 

progress. I have determined that the Suemez Island Road system is the minimum road system 

needed for safe and efficient travel and for administration, utilization, and protection of 

National Forest System lands (36 CFR 212.5). 

Tongass Timber Reform Act (TTRA) 

Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines have been applied to this project. No commercial 

timber harvest will occur within 100 feet of any Class I stream or any Class II stream flowing 

directly into a Class I stream, as required in Section 103 of the TTRA. The design and 

implementation direction for the decision incorporates Best Management Practices (BMPs) 

and Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines for the protection of all stream classes. 

Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 (as amended) 

The decision will not have a direct, indirect, or cumulative adverse effect on any threatened 

or endangered species. Consultation was initiated with USFWS and NMFS. No terrestrial or 

threatened or endangered species are listed for the project area. A combined biological 

assessment (BA) and biological evaluation (BE) was prepared for the project, as required by 

Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), as amended, and the USDA Forest Service 

Threatened, Endangered and Sensitive Plant and Animal Species Policy (Forest Service 

Manual (FSM) 2670). 

Bald Eagle Protection Act 

This decision will comply with the Bald Eagle Protection Act. No eagle nests have been 

found within or adjacent to the harvest units that are part of this decision. Protective 

measures are not required for this project. 

Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act 

(Essential Fish Habitat) 

The potential effects of the project on Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) are discussed in Chapter 

3 of the Scratchings Final EIS. This discussion includes reference to the Magnuson-Stevens 

Fisheries Conservation Act, which requires the Forest Service to consult with the National 

Marine Fisheries Service on projects that may affect EFH. It also includes a description of 
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R-16  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

the EFH in the project area, a description of the proposed activities, and a specification of the 

mitigation measures that will be protecting these essential habitats. 

In accordance with the Forest Service and National Marine Fisheries Service agreement on 

the method to complete EFH consultation using National Environmental Policy Act 

procedures (dated August 25, 2000); the consultation process was formally initiated by 

providing the Draft EIS to the National Marine Fisheries Service. 

The analysis in the Scratchings Final EIS led to a determination in the 2007 ROD that the 

project may adversely affect EFH. Risk of effects to EFH is minimized through the 

implementation of Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines and Best Management Practices. In 

evaluating the potential effects on EFH of activities authorized as part of this decision, these 

factors were considered: 

1. All Class II streams within the project area will be protected by a no-harvest riparian 

management area (RMA) buffer of 100 feet or more (Unit Cards ROD Appendix 1). 

2. All Class III streams will be protected by no-harvest RMA buffers to at least the top of 

the side slope according to the Forest Plan. 

3. Where wind damage is a concern, buffer widths may be increased, and additional trees 

may be left standing to assure resistance to windthrow (Unit Cards ROD Appendix 1). 

4. BMPs will be implemented to protect water quality and aquatic habitat for all 

freshwater streams within the project area. 

5. New construction of NFS roads will be approximately 0.8 mile and will cross one Class 

II stream and two Class III streams. All newly constructed NFS road will be placed in 

storage after timber harvest is complete. 

6. Construction of 1.4 miles of new temporary road will occur. No temporary roads will 

be constructed across fish streams. 

7. The newly constructed NFS road will be placed into storage after timber harvest is 

complete. 

8. Rebuilding of an existing log transfer facility (LTF) by using the existing footprint will 

minimize the chance for sea floor impacts. 

9. Using low tide cycles to complete rebuilding of an LTF will allow for flushing of 

small-scale fine sediments. 

10. Loading of logs directly onto a barge will eliminate the need for placing logs into 

marine waters, thereby eliminating the accumulation of bark debris in the marine 

environment. 

The NMFS reviewed the Draft EIS and has provided comments on the findings of the 

assessment. These comments are included in a letter dated August 25, 2006, outlining five 

conservation recommendations pertaining to the project (see Appendix 2 of the Final EIS for 

this letter). The Forest Service has responded to the conservation recommendations made by 

the NMFS. 
Record of Decision II 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-17 

National Historic Preservation Act 

Heritage resource surveys of various intensities have been conducted in the project area, 

following inventory protocols approved by the Alaska State Historic Preservation Officer. 

The State Historic Preservation Officer has been consulted, in accordance with Section 106 

of the NHPA and 36 CFR Part 800. I have determined that there will be no effects on known 

heritage resources. 

Native communities have been contacted and public comment encouraged. The Forest 

Service has satisfied the consultation process with the State Historic Preservation Officer. 

Also, Forest Service timber sale contracts contain enforceable measures for protecting any 

undiscovered heritage resource that might be encountered during sale operations. See 

discussion under Heritage Resources in Chapter 3 of the Final EIS for more details. 

Federal Cave Resource Protection Act of 1988 

The actions in this decision will not have a direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on any 

significant cave in the Scratchings project area. Karst and cave systems have developed on 

the southeastern portion of Suemez Island. However, there is no proposed timber harvest on 

the southeastern portion of the Island. 

Implementation of this decision will not have an effect on the karst systems found within the 

project area. 

Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) Section 

810, Subsistence Evaluation and Findings 

Subsistence Evaluation and Findings: A subsistence evaluation was conducted for the five 

alternatives, in accordance with Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) 

Section 810. An ANILCA 810 subsistence hearing was conducted during the comment 

period for the Draft EIS. No oral testimony was received at these hearings. 

This evaluation indicates that the potential foreseeable effects from the alternatives do not 

indicate a significant possibility of a significant restriction of subsistence uses for deer, bear, 

furbearers, marine mammals, waterfowl, salmon, other finfish, shellfish, and other foods 

such as berries and roots. See Chapter 3, Subsistence section, in the Final EIS for more detail. 

However, the Forest Plan addressed the long-term consequences on subsistence and 

concluded that there may be a significant possibility of significant restriction to subsistence 

use of deer some time in the future due to the combined potential effects of projects 

implementing the 2008 Forest Plan and the predicted human population growth on the 

abundance and distribution of deer and on competition for deer. The analysis in the 

Subsistence section in Chapter 3 of the Final EIS addresses this finding. 

Clean Water Act (1977, as amended) 

Congress intended the Clean Water Act of 1972 (Public Law 92-500) as amended in 1977 

(Public Law 95-217) and 1987 (Public Law 100-4) to protect and improve the quality of 

water resources and maintain their beneficial uses. Section 313 of the Clean Water Act and 

Executive Order 12088 of January 23, 1987 address Federal agency compliance and 

consistency with water pollution control mandates. Agencies must be consistent with 
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R-18  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

requirements that apply to "any governmental entity" or private person. Compliance is to be 

in line with "all Federal, State, interstate, and local requirements, administrative authority, 

and process and sanctions respecting the control and abatement of water pollution." 

The Clean Water Act (Sections 208 and 319) recognized the need for control strategies for 

nonpoint source pollution. The National Nonpoint Source Policy (December 12, 1984), the 

Forest Service Nonpoint Strategy (January 29, 1985), and the USDA Nonpoint Source Water 

Quality Policy (December 5, 1986) provide a protection and improvement emphasis for soil 

and water resources and water-related beneficial uses. Soil and water conservation practices 

(BMPs) were recognized as the primary control mechanisms for nonpoint source pollution on 

National Forest System lands. The Environmental Protection Agency supports this 

perspective in their guidance, "Nonpoint Source Controls and Water Quality Standards" 

(August 19, 1987). 

The Forest Service must apply Best Management Practices that are consistent with the 

Alaska Forest Resources and Practices Regulations to achieve Alaska Water Quality 

Standards. The site-specific application of BMPs, with a monitoring and feedback 

mechanism, is the approved strategy for controlling nonpoint source pollution as defined by 

Alaska’s Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Strategy (February, 2007). In 1997, the State 

approved the BMPs in the Forest Service’s Soil and Water Conservation Handbook (FSH 

Handbook 2509.22, July, 2006) as consistent with the Alaska Forest Resources and Practices 

Regulations. This Handbook is incorporated into the 2008 Tongass Land and Resource 

Management Plan. 

A discharge of dredge or fill material from normal silviculture activities such as harvesting 

for the production of forest products is exempt from Section 404 permitting requirements in 

waters of the United States, including wetlands (404(f)(1)(A). Forest roads qualify for this 

exemption only if they are constructed and maintained in accordance with best management 

practices to assure that flow and circulation patterns and chemical and biological 

characteristics of the waters are not impaired (404)(f)(1)(E). The BMPs that must be 

followed are specified in 33 CFR 323.4(a). These specific BMPs have been incorporated into 

the Forest Service’s Soil and Water Conservation Handbook under BMP 12.5. 

The design of harvest units for this decision was guided by standards, guidelines and 

direction in the Forest Plan, and applicable Forest Service manuals and handbooks. The unit 

cards and road card (Appendices 2 and 3 of the Scratchings ROD) contain specific details on 

practices prescribed to prevent or reduce nonpoint sediment sources. 

Clean Air Act 

Emissions expected from implementation of this decision will be of short duration and are 

not expected to exceed State of Alaska Ambient Air Quality Standards (Alaska 

Administrative Code, Title 18, Chapter 50). 

Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA)

Under the CZMA, Federal activities that affect any land or water use or any natural resource 

of a State's coastal zone must be carried out in a manner that is consistent to the maximum 

extent practicable with the enforceable policies of the State's coastal management plan. The 

Forest Service made a determination that the Scratchings Project will affect the coastal zone. 
Record of Decision II 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-19 

Implementation of the project will be carried out in a manner that is consistent to the 

maximum extent practicable with the enforceable policies of the Alaska Coastal Management 

Program. The Office of Project Management and Permitting of the Alaska Department of 

Natural Resources reviewed and concurred with that determination. 

Executive Orders 

Executive Order 11988 (Floodplains)

Executive Order 11988 directs Federal agencies to take action to avoid, long- and short-term 

adverse impacts associated with the occupancy and modification of floodplains to the extent 

possible. A floodplain is defined as the lowland and relatively flat areas adjoining inland and 

coastal waters including flood prone areas of offshore islands. Forest Plan Standards and 

Guidelines for riparian areas exclude most commercial timber harvesting from floodplains. 

Roads may be constructed in or through floodplains subject to the design requirements of 

Best Management Practices. Effects on floodplains from project activities are avoided or 

minimized as much as possible. 

Executive Order 11990 (Wetlands) 

Executive Order 11990 requires Federal agencies to avoid, to the extent possible, the longand short-term adverse impacts associated with the destruction or modification of wetlands. 

Because wetlands are so extensive in the Scratchings project area, it is not feasible to avoid 

all wetland areas. Wetland soils not meeting Forest Plan criteria for timber harvest suitability 

are excluded from the timber harvest base. Though soil moisture regimes and vegetation on 

some wetlands may be altered in some harvest units, the affected wetlands will still meet 

wetland classification and will function as wetlands in the ecosystem. 

Road construction across wetlands was avoided to the extent practicable (Road Cards ROD 

Appendix 2). Road 1086500 is mostly located on emergent short sedge and forested wetlands 

(0.77 mile) due to high density of wetland complexes across the ridgeline. Effects to 

wetlands are minimized through the application of specific Best Management Practices, 

using overlay road construction and adequate drainage to provide hydrologic connectivity of 

the roaded wetland with surrounding areas. 

Executive Order 12898 (Environmental Justice)

Executive Order 12898 directs Federal agencies to identify and address the issue of 

environmental justice, i.e., human health and environmental effects of agency programs that 

disproportionately impact minority and low-income populations. The Executive Order 

specifically directs agencies to consider patterns of subsistence hunting and fishing when an 

agency action may affect fish or wildlife. Subsistence use of resources by area residents does 

not vary significantly by ethnicity. No known subsistence food or material from the project 

area is used primarily by minority or low-income populations. Project level analysis shows 

this project will not result in a significant restriction of subsistence uses of deer, black bear, 

furbearers, marine mammals, waterfowl, salmon, other finfish, shellfish or other foods. 

However, the Forest Plan addressed the long-term consequences on subsistence and 
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R-20  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

concluded that there may be a significant possibility of significant restriction to subsistence 

use of deer some time in the future due to the combined potential effects of projects 

implementing the Forest Plan and the predicted human population growth on the abundance 

and distribution of deer and on competition for deer. The analysis in the Subsistence section 

in Chapter 3 of the Final EIS addresses this finding. The decision to implement activities that 

are a part of the Scratchings project area will not cause adverse health, social, or 

environmental effects that disproportionately impact minority and low-income populations 

(see also the ANILCA Section 810 findings). 

Executive Order 12962 (Recreational Fisheries) 

Executive Order 12962 directs Federal agencies to conserve, restore, and enhance aquatic 

systems to provide for increased recreational fishing opportunities nationwide. This order 

directs Federal agencies to evaluate effects on aquatic ecosystems and recreational fisheries; 

develop and encourage partnerships; promote restoration; provide access; and promote 

awareness of opportunities for recreational fishery resources. The effects of this project on 

freshwater and marine resources were evaluated during the analysis. No significant adverse 

effects to freshwater or marine resources are expected to occur with the application of Forest 

Plan Standards and Guidelines, including those for riparian areas. Partnerships continue to be 

used to leverage Federal project funds to address water quality concerns in areas of the 

Tongass National Forest; however, none have been proposed for recreational fisheries in 

conjunction with this project. 

Executive Order 13007 (Indian Sacred Sites) 

Executive Order 13007 directs Federal agencies to accommodate access to and ceremonial 

use of American Indian sacred sites by Indian religious practitioners and to avoid adversely 

affecting the physical integrity of such sacred sites. In a government-to-government 

relationship, the tribal government is responsible for notifying the agency of the existence of 

a sacred site. A sacred site is defined as a site that has sacred significance due to established 

religious beliefs or ceremonial uses, and which has specific, discrete, and delineated location, 

which has been identified by the tribe. One sacred site is known to exist on Suemez Island. 

This site is not located near any of the project units. Access to this site will not be affected by 

any timber unit or road development associated with this decision. 

Executive Order 13112 (Invasive Species) 

Executive Order 13112 directs Federal agencies whose actions may affect the status of 

invasive species to insure coordinated, cost-efficient and effective agency actions addressing 

the prevention, detection, control and monitoring of alien species. “Alien species” refers to 

those that do cause or are likely to cause economic, environmental harm or harm to human 

health. Actions to be taken include planning at the local, tribal, state, regional and ecosystem 

levels, in cooperation with stakeholders and organizations addressing invasive species. 

Agencies are not to fund or authorize actions that the agency believes are likely to cause or 

promote the introduction or spread of invasive species, unless the benefits of the action 

outweigh the potential harm caused by the species. 

Inventories for invasive species were completed for the main portion of the Suemez Island 

road system in 2006, and recorded in the Alaska Exotic Plant Information Clearinghouse 
Record of Decision II 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-21 

(AKEPIC) database. No high priority invasive plants were found. Due to the absence of high 

priority invasive plant species and the low level of proposed road construction, the ecologist 

determined the risk of spreading invasive species is quite low. No mitigation measures are 

needed as the overall risk of spread is low with project implementation. 

Executive Order 13175 (Consultation and Coordination with Indian 

Tribal Governments) 

Executive Order 13175 directs Federal agencies to respect tribal self-government, 

sovereignty, and tribal rights, and to engage in regular and meaningful government-togovernment consultation with tribes on proposed actions with tribal implications. The Forest 

Service met with local tribes during the planning stages of the project as previously noted in 

Consultation with Tribal Governments. 

Executive Order 13186 (Migratory Birds) 

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (amended in 1936 and 1972) prohibits the taking of 

migratory birds, unless authorized by the Secretary of Interior. The law provides the primary 

mechanism to regulate waterfowl hunting seasons and bag limits but its scope is not just 

limited to waterfowl. Over 100 species of birds migrate from the other states and countries to 

Alaska to breed, nest, and fledge their young. Most of these birds fly to interior or northern 

Alaska and only pass through the project area on the way to their breeding grounds. The 

migratory species that may stay in the area utilize most, if not all, of the habitats described in 

the Final EIS analysis for breeding, nesting, and raising their young. The effects on these 

habitats were analyzed for this project. 

This decision is not anticipated to have a significant direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on 

any migratory bird species for this project area. There may be direct minor effects on 

individuals or small groups and their nests from the harvest of timber or the disturbance 

caused by harvest activities. 

Federal and State Permits, Licenses, and 

Certifications

Federal and State permits necessary to implement the authorized activities are listed at the 

end of Chapter 1 in the Final EIS. 

Implementation Process 

Implementation of this decision may occur no sooner than 50 days following publication of 

the legal notice of the decision in the Ketchikan Daily News, published in Ketchikan, Alaska 

(see the following Right to Appeal section). Timber from this project will be offered as one 

or more timber sales, or combined with another sale beginning in 2009. 

This project will be implemented in accordance with Forest Service Manual (FSM) and 

Handbook direction for Timber Sale Project Implementation in FSM 2430 and FSH 2409.18. 
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R-22  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

This direction provides a bridge between project planning and implementation and will 

ensure execution of the actions, environmental standards, and mitigation approved by this 

decision, and compliance with TTRA and other laws. All applicable Best Management 

Practices (BMPs) will be applied to the implementation of this decision. 

Implementation of the activities authorized by this Record of Decision will be monitored to 

ensure that they are carried out as planned and described in the Final EIS and unit cards 

included as part of this ROD. 

The unit and road cards associated with this Record of Decision are contained in Appendices 

1 and 2 of this ROD. The cards are an integral part of this decision because they document 

the specific resource concerns, management objectives, and mitigation measures to govern 

the layout of the harvest units. These cards will be used during the implementation process to 

assure that all aspects of the project are implemented within applicable standards and 

guidelines and that resource impacts will not be greater than those described in the Final EIS. 

Similar cards will be used to document any changes to the planned layout as the actual layout 

and harvest of the units occurs with project implementation. 

The implementation record for this project will document: 

 Each harvest unit as actually implemented, 

 Any proposed changes to the design, location or other mitigation measures for the 

project, and 

 Authorization of the proposed changes. 

Process for Change During Implementation 

Proposed changes to the authorized project actions will be subject to the requirements of the 

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the National Forest Management Act of 1976 

(NFMA), Section 810 of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA), 

the Tongass Timber Reform Act (TTRA), the Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA), and 

other laws concerning such changes. 

In determining whether and what kind of NEPA action is required, the Forest Supervisor will 

consider the criteria set forth in the Code of Federal Regulations (40 CFR 1502.9(c)), and 

Forest Service Handbook (FSH) 1909.15, sec. 18 for determining whether to supplement an 

existing Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). In particular, the Forest Supervisor will 

determine whether the proposed change is a substantial change to the approved activities as 

planned and whether the change is relevant to environmental concerns. Connected or 

interrelated proposed changes regarding particular areas of specific activities will be 

considered together in making this determination. The cumulative impacts of these changes 

will also be considered. 

The intent of field verification is to confirm inventory data and to determine the feasibility 

and general design and location of a unit or road, not to locate final boundaries or road 

locations. Minor changes are expected during implementation to better meet on-site resource 

management and protection objectives. Minor adjustments to unit boundaries are also likely 

during final layout for the purpose of improving logging system efficiency. This will usually 

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Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-25 
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Record of Decision II 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-27 

Appendix 1 - Unit Cards 

The Unit Cards are used to explain site-specific information about each unit. Narrative cards 

and maps for each unit are in numerical order. The unit cards summarize the silvicultural 

prescriptions, and describe the resource concerns and mitigation measures for each unit. 

Unit boundaries do not include known riparian management area (RMA) buffers, high 

vulnerability karst, or non-forested areas. Areas of slopes over 72%, raptor nests, or wetlands 

are described in the text of the unit cards and/or displayed on the maps. The management of 

these areas is described in the text. 

The Unit Cards provide information on all resources and summarize the project design 

elements including silvicultural prescription, mitigation measures, and unit layout 

instructions, either where a particular resource or resource condition is found, or where these 

conditions are found during unit layout. These elements and measures can be either from the 

Forest Plan or project specific. 

Introduction to Unit Cards 

Silvicultural Prescriptions 

Silvicultural prescriptions have been developed for each unit to meet site specific 

management objectives and Forest Plan direction. These objectives may include retaining 

old-growth characteristics for biodiversity, protection of soils, watershed, wildlife habitat or 

scenery values or designing systems that are most economical for logging feasibility on a 

site. 

Minor changes to unit boundary location and to prescriptions are expected during 

implementation to better meet on-site conditions. Information on the silvicultural 

prescriptions is included on the unit card. The detailed silvicultural prescriptions are located 

in the project record and will be used during implementation. 

Fish and Watershed

All known streams, either field surveyed or identified from the GIS layer, are shown on the 

unit card maps. These mapped streams, and any additional streams found during layout, will 

be protected by following the Forest Plan Riparian Standards and Guidelines. Timing 

restrictions for instream work may be required for each fish stream crossing listed on the 

road card (for the NFS system road segment) or the unit cards (for temporary roads). 

Instream work would be permitted through the State of Alaska Office of Habitat 

Management and Permitting. 

Process Groups and Channel Types 

A process group describes streams with similar interrelationships between watershed runoff, 

landform relief, geology, and glacial or tidal influences on erosion and deposition. A channel 
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R-28  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

type more precisely characterizes a stream and helps predict the probable responses to natural 

and human influences. Channel types incorporate other aspects such as gradient, pattern, 

stream bank incision and containment and riparian area vegetation communities. See the 

Forest Plan, Figure D-1 (page D-4) for a visual representation of the typical distribution of 

channel process groups. The following table includes only the Forest Plan codes used on the 

unit card narratives. Unit cards summarize protection needed for each stream in the unit by 

process group. 

Table C-1: Process Groups in the Scratchings Project Area (Paustian et al. 1992) 

Process 

Group Description Channel Morphometry Riparian Management Area 

HC High Gradient 

Contained 

Steep mountain slope 

tributaries 

Within side-slope 

break 

AF Alluvial Fan 

multi-branched 

channels on 

depositional footslopes

Greater of 140 feet or 

active fan surface, 

remove no more than 

10% of trees on 

remainder of fan 

MC Moderate Gradient 

Contained 

Confined stream 

entrenched in 

footslopes or lowlands 

Within side-slope 

break 

MM 

Moderate 

Gradient/Mixed 

Control 

Valley bottom streams 

with variable 

confinement 

Greater of 120 feet or 

floodplain, riparian 

wetland extent 

LC Large Contained Confined streams in 

lowlands and valleys 

Greater of 100 feet or 

within side-slope break 

FP Floodplain Unconfined valley 

flood plain streams 

Greater of 130 feet or 

extent of floodplain or 

riparian vegetation or 

wetlands 

PA Palustrine Placid, sinuous, 

lowland streams 100 feet (Class I, II) 

ES Estuarine Unconfined streams on 

tidal deltas 1000 feet 

Source: Forest Plan, pages D-1 - D-4. 

Riparian Standards and Guidelines for Timber Harvest

Riparian Management Areas are areas of special concern to fish, other aquatic resources and 

wildlife. Stream buffers help maintain biodiversity and productivity, streambank and stream 

channel processes, and the natural and beneficial qualities of large woody debris over the 
Record of Decision II 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-29 

short and long term. They are generally delineated as identified in the process group direction 

(RIP2, III, E). 

The Tongass Timber Reform Act (TTRA) mandates the use of minimum 100-foot wide 

buffer strips along both sides of all Class I and Class II streams that flow into Class I streams. 

This was incorporated into the Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines as “No commercial 

harvest within 100 feet of Class I streams and Class II streams that flow into Class I 

streams.” Class II streams in or adjacent to timber units flow into Class I streams. 

Reasonable Assurance of Windfirmness (RAW) Zone for Streams 

RAW zones are areas alongside stream buffers that are managed to improve windfirmness 

where windthrow is a concern. RAW zones depicted on unit card maps will be reviewed in 

the field at the time of unit layout and modified as necessary, to protect the no-harvest stream 

buffers from accelerated windthrow. 

Project Design, General Mitigation Measures, and 

Unit Lay-out Instructions

The following general project design, mitigation measures, and unit lay-out instructions 

apply to all units, actions, and roads in the Scratchings project where those conditions exist. 

The source(s) of each general measure are listed after the measure in terms of individual 

Forest-wide Standards and Guidelines found in Chapter 4 of the Forest Plan, or BMPs (see 

Chapter 10 of FSH 2509.22, The Soil and Water Conservation Handbook), where applicable. 

Silvicultural Prescription Guidelines

Harvest of trees may be clearcutting by cable, shovel or helicopter. This would result in 

even-aged stands, though areas of tree retention may occur for economic, windthrow 

prevention or other objectives. Retention areas do not meet the distribution requirements for 

two-aged management and will not be considered as such. If encountered during layout, non 

forested/nonproductive areas will result in a reduced harvest area and volume. In portions of 

the unit with a diameter harvest limit, partial harvest by helicopter or cable may be used. In 

this instance, a two-aged stand will result, with the residual trees being separate in age from 

the rest of the stand by at least 20% of the rotation. These trees would be retained through the 

rotation. 

Harvest of other species and diameter classes will be based on market conditions at the time 

and refined during layout. Harvest prescriptions in most units are for even-aged clearcuts. A 

minimum harvest diameter of 24 inches at diameter at breast height (DBH) is prescribed for 

stands that are designated as a two-aged management regime. Reserves should be protected 

to the extent possible during harvest. Refer to individual unit prescriptions and marking 

guides for additional site-specific information. 

Temporary Road Decommissioning

Decommissioning of temporary roads will be part of the timber sale contract for this project, 

and will occur after timber harvest is completed. To decommission roads in the Scratchings 
Scratchings

R-30  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

project, roads will be closed to all motorized vehicles, access will be blocked, and all 

drainage structures removed. The goal of this treatment is stabilization of unneeded roads, 

and restoration to more natural conditions. 

Stream Channel Protection Measures Incorporated into 

Unit Design 

The following stream protection measures are required in all units where streams are 

identified. See individual unit cards for stream categories. 

Stream Protection Categories 

Category A: Class I streams and Class II streams are marked with blue and white striped 

flagging, and will be protected by no-cut buffers designated by process group in Forest Plan 

Riparian Standards and Guidelines. No commercial timber will be removed from these 

buffers. Trees identified for harvest will be felled to avoid no-cut buffers. Prior to any 

operations within a buffer, a Stream course Protection Plan will be developed for that buffer 

(BMP 13.16). 

Category B: Class III streams are marked with orange and white striped flagging. These 

stream courses will be protected by no-cut buffers within the v-notch. Class IV streams with 

unstable side-slopes may also be assigned Category B protection without buffers. The 

following are Category B protections: 

Split yard and directionally fall trees away from Class III and IV streams without buffers 

(RIP2-II). Felled trees that inadvertently enter or cross stream courses shall not be bucked or 

limbed until clear of stream courses, unless limbing or bucking would reduce damage to the 

riparian vegetation or stream banks. Debris in stream courses resulting from falling or 

yarding shall be removed immediately to a stable location above high water mark. Existing 

natural stable debris will be left undisturbed. When ground skidding systems are employed, 

logs will be end-lined out of riparian areas. Fully suspend logs where yarding is to be done 

across streams or the full length of a stream or drainage (BMP 13.16, RIP2-II). 

Category C: Class IV streams and all other intermittent, ephemeral, and small perennial 

channels and V notches designated for soil and water quality protection are marked with 

green and white striped flagging and will be protected in the following manner: 

Where practicable, trees will be felled and yarded away from stream courses. The trees that 

cannot be felled away from stream courses will be felled to bridge the stream providing these 

trees will be yarded during the same operating season. Trees felled to bridge stream courses 

will be bucked, limbed, and topped clear of stream course and its banks. Debris which restrict 

natural water flow, adversely affect water quality or have potential for debris flow will be 

removed to a stable location above high water mark before the yarder leaves the unit or upon 

completion of seasonal logging activities in the unit, whichever comes first (BMP 13.16). 

Stream Crossing Protections (BMP 13.16) 

Location and method of stream crossings must be agreed to prior to construction. Crossings 

are authorized after the location of skid trails, tractor roads, and the Forest Service and the 
Record of Decision II 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-31 

Purchaser agree to temporary roads. Temporary crossings shall not impede fish passage, or 

result in significant degradation of water quality (BMP 14.17). 

Material from temporary road and skid trail stream crossings will be removed from the 

stream channel and the stream banks will be restored to an acceptable condition upon 

completion of Purchaser's use or prior to the next seasonal high runoff period, unless 

otherwise agreed (BMPs 13.11, 13.14, 14.17, and 14.24). 

Purchaser shall repair all damage to a stream course caused by Purchaser's operations, 

including damage to banks and channel, as designated by the Forest Service. Revegetation 

may be required on disturbed stream banks, V-notch sideslopes, and adjacent floodplains 

(BMP 12.17). 

Water bars, windrowed slash, and other erosion control structures will be properly located to 

prevent water and sediment from being channeled into stream courses, and to dissipate 

concentrated flows. 

Wheeled or track-laying equipment will not be operated in stream courses unless approved 

by Forest Service except at crossing designated by Forest Service, or as essential to 

construction or removal of culverts and bridges (BMP 14.14). 

Unit Card Map Key 

Harvest System: 

SS = Short-span cable yarding 

HE = Helicopter yarding 

Prescription/Percent Retention: 

CC = Clearcut 

PC ## = Partial Cut with a minimum diameter limit 

 
R-32  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-33 

LUD: Timber 

production 

Silvicultural 

Prescription: 

Even-aged CC

4113 

Total Unit Acres: 9 Unit Number: 0634-067 

VCU: 

TM 

Compartment: 

6340 

63402 

Logging 

Systems: 

SS Harvest Acres: 9 In Selected Alternative 

Photo Number: 610051A 190-258 Net Harvest Volume: 

Inventoried Roadless 

Area Acres: 

9 MBF: 183 

SILVICULTURE: Existing Stand Condition/Vegetation: Stand Average site index: 80; Productivity class: 4. 

Blowdown risk is moderate to high throughout the setting. Evidence of older blowdown was noted but no recent 

damage was seen. Insect and Disease - The most prevalent disease noted within the stand was found to be stem 

decays and Alaska-cedar decline. The majority of volume loss could be attributed to stem decays. 

Silvicultural Objective/Desired Condition: The desired condition for this stand is a highly productive, healthy, 

windfirm, stand grown for timber management that retains residual trees as needed to meet standards and guides 

or other objectives. 

Silvicultural Prescription: Even-aged management –Clearcut (CC) 4113. Mark boundaries paying particular 

attention to windfirmness. For example, bring unit boundaries to the edge of existing young-growth or muskeg 

and to the lee side of a ridgeline where possible. Interdisciplinary review of RAW zones to determine RAW 

zone prescription should occur at the time of layout, as described in the Fish/Watershed section. Even-aged 

clearcutting is being prescribed for this unit to preclude or minimize the occurrence of potentially adverse 

impacts from hemlock dwarf mistletoe or other insect or disease infections, logging damage and windthrow. All 

past harvest areas adjacent to or near this prescribed clearcut are adequately restocked with trees at least 5 feet 

tall. 

TIMBER/LOGGING: Low volume muskeg scrub has been deleted along northern boundary as well as in 

southeast 1/3 of setting. A mid to upper slope road in the setting has been located and allows yarding with cable 

systems over the entire setting. System road in this setting could be continued into setting 6340-068. 

ENGINEERING/ROADS: See Road Card 

BOTANY RESOURCES: No concerns. 

FISH/WATERSHED: Stream 1- Class 1, FP3 no cut buffer 130’; Stream 2- Class 2, PA0 no cut buffer 100’ 

with RAW buffer on east side; Class 3, HC0 slope break buffer with RAW buffer on both sides; Stream 3- Class 

3, HC5 slope break buffer with RAW buffer; on east side. Buffer Class I, II, and III streams with additional 

RAW to the southeasterly direction for watershed protection. 

GEOLOGY/KARST: No concerns. 

HERITAGE RESOURCES: Proposed Units 6340-067, 6340-068, 6340-069, 6340-070, 6340-073, 6340-098, 

and 6340111 fall within and area of high sensitivity for heritage resources. Obsidian (volcanic glass) cobbles 

have been noted in the lower reaches of the creeks deriving from the drainage basins containing these units. In 

place beds of obsidian have been identified in one location above 6340-069. Obsidian from this source is known 
R-34  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

to be a raw material for stone tool manufacture and trade dating back at least 10,000 years. Although surveys of 

these units (archaeological and other disciplines) have not identified a prehistoric quarry site there is the 

possibility that one exists. Options for mitigation in this situation include dropping these units (H1); or conduct 

archaeological monitoring in conjunction with road construction and harvest. Should sites of archaeological 

value be noted during monitoring data recovery would be undertaken (H3). A second contributing factor to the 

high sensitivity of these units is their proximity to the historic Spanish uses (1775 and 1779) of Port Santa Cruz. 

However, historic journals make no mention of upland activities by Spanish sailors. 

Aside from the possibility of obsidian quarry sites and its proximity to historic Spanish activity Unit 6340067 

has little likelihood of containing cultural resources. It lies on steep slopes at elevations between 70 and 360 feet 

above sea level. 

Archaeological survey and monitoring of the proposed unit and surrounding area were conducted on June 23-

25, 2008. No cultural resources were documented. There are no historic properties in the area of potential 

effects. 

LANDS: T 76S; R 79E, Sec. 21 Copper River Meridian 

RECREATION: Although no developed recreation sites exist in this unit, it is in the proximity of a perennially 

utilized recreation site. The first Spanish contact in Alaska occurred at the mouth of the stream that runs through 

this unit. Currently, the Catholic Church maintains a pilgrimage site to this area to celebrate the first Catholic 

Mass in Alaska. It is a recreation site of interest (see recreation and heritage sections for more details). No 

mitigation measures are suggested because the site is located on the beach fringe and would not likely be 

affected by the harvest activities. 

The site is also a recreation site of interest because of its special geological features. It represents a unique 

recreation opportunity to see volcanic landforms, karst areas and other special geologic features. Recreation 

activities are limited in the area and harvest activities are unlikely to affect them. 

SCENERY: The units along the northwest portion of Suemez Island are in middleground distance zone. This 

unit is seen from Port Santa Cruz (view point 4). The VQO to be met is Maximum Modification. In order to 

minimize visual disturbance and reduce visual contrast with adjacent areas use clearcutting with reserve trees 

(even-aged system) as a harvest prescription. 

SOILS: Partial suspension is required to meet soil quality standards and to protect wetland resources (BMPs 

12.5, 13.5, and 13.9). Aerial photos, GIS data, slope data, and soil survey data were reviewed by the soil 

scientist to identify potential soil resource concerns. No soil or slope concerns were identified; therefore, no 

field reconnaissance was completed by the soil scientist. See fisheries section for complete details on 

streamcourse protections (BMPs 12.6 and 13.16). 

WILDLIFE: This unit was not surveyed by wildlife. Should a nest be discovered, all applicable Forest Plan 

Standards and Guidelines would be applied. 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-35 

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R-36  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-37 

LUD: Timber 

production 

Silvicultural 

Prescription: 

Even-aged 

CC 4113 

Total Unit Acres: 27 Unit Number: 0634-068 

VCU: 

TM Compartment: 

6340 

63402 

Logging 

Systems: 

SS Harvest Acres: 27 In Selected Alternative 

Photo Number: 610051A 190-258 Net Harvest Volume: 

Inventoried Roadless 

Area Acres: 

27 MBF: 

CCF: 

625 

SILVICULTURE: Existing Stand Condition/Vegetation: Stand average site index: 100; Productivity class: 2. 

Blowdown risk is high over the majority of the setting. Insect and Disease - The most prevalent disease noted 

within the stand was found to be dwarf mistletoe. The majority of volume loss could be attributed to stem 

decays. Pockets of foliage damage were noted in understory. Western Hemlock. This damage was attributed to 

Hemlock Canker. 

Silvicultural Objective/Desired Condition: The desired condition for this stand is a highly productive, healthy, 

windfirm, stand grown for timber management that retains residual trees as needed to meet standards and guides 

or other objectives. 

Silvicultural Prescription: Even-aged management –Clearcut (CC) 4113. Mark boundaries paying particular 

attention to windfirmness. For example, bring unit boundaries to the edge of existing young-growth or muskeg 

and to the lee side of a ridgeline where possible. Interdisciplinary review of RAW zones to determine RAW zone 

prescription should occur at the time of layout, as described in the Fish/Watershed section. Even-aged 

clearcutting is being prescribed for this unit to preclude or minimize the occurrence of potentially adverse 

impacts from hemlock dwarf mistletoe or other insect or disease infections, logging damage and windthrow. All 

past harvest areas adjacent to or near this prescribed clearcut are adequately restocked with trees at least 5 feet 

tall. 

TIMBER/LOGGING: An area of merchantable timber was found outside the original planned setting boundary 

in the southeastern corner of the unit. This area has been included in the planned unit (See map). This setting was 

planned for helicopter yarding in the original LSTA. During the 2000 field season a grade line was located into 

the setting from the northwest by Robert Emley verifying that cable yarding would be a viable option. With 

roading options possible, Running Skyline would be preferred yarding system. Skyline yarding appears feasible 

to a road along the upper unit boundary. Running Skyline would allow for partial suspension. 

ENGINEERING/ROADS: See Road Card 

BOTANY RESOURCES: No concerns 

FISH/WATERSHED: Stream 3- Class 3, HC5 slope break buffer with RAW buffer on east side; Stream 11- 

Class 2, HC1 no cut buffer 100’ with RAW buffer on south side; Class 3, HC1 slope break buffer with RAW 

buffer on south side; Stream 10- Class 2, HC5 no cut buffer 100’ with RAW buffer on both sides; Class 3, HC6 

slope break buffer with RAW buffer on both sides. No watershed concerns. 

GEOLOGY/KARST: No concerns 

HERITAGE RESOURCES: Proposed Units 6340-067, 6340-068, 6340-069, 6340-070, 6340-073, 6340-098, and 

6340111 fall within and area of high sensitivity for heritage resources. Obsidian (volcanic glass) cobbles have 

been noted in the lower reaches of the creeks deriving from the drainage basins containing these units. In place 
R-38  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

beds of obsidian have been identified in one location above 6340-069. Obsidian from this source is known to be 

a raw material for stone tool manufacture and trade dating back at least 10,000 years. Although surveys of these 

units (archaeological and other disciplines) have not identified a prehistoric quarry site there is the possibility 

that one exists. Options for mitigation in this situation include dropping these units (H1); or conduct 

archaeological monitoring in conjunction with road construction and harvest. Should sites of archaeological 

value be noted during monitoring data recovery would be undertaken (H3). A second contributing factor to the 

high sensitivity of these units is their proximity to the historic Spanish uses (1775 and 1779) of Port Santa Cruz. 

However, historic journals make no mention of upland activities by Spanish sailors. 

Aside from the possibility of obsidian quarry sites and its proximity to historic Spanish activity Unit 6340068 

has little likelihood of containing cultural resources. It lies on steep slopes at elevations between 70 and 500 feet 

above sea level. 

Archaeological survey and monitoring of the proposed unit and surrounding area were conducted on June 23-25, 

2008. No cultural resources were documented. There are no historic properties in the area of potential effects. 

LANDS: T 76S, R 79E, Sec. 20 Copper River Meridian 

RECREATION: Although no developed recreation sites exist in this unit, it is in the proximity of a perennially 

utilized recreation site. The first Spanish contact in Alaska occurred at the mouth of the stream that runs through 

this unit. Currently, the Catholic Church maintains a pilgrimage site to this area to celebrate the first Catholic 

Mass in Alaska. It is a recreation site of interest (see recreation and heritage sections for more details). 

The site is also a recreation site of interest because of its special geological features. It represents a unique 

recreation opportunity to see volcanic landforms, karst areas and other special geologic features. 

SCENERY: The units along the central west portion of Suemez Island are in middleground distance zone. This 

unit is seen from Port Santa Cruz (view point 4). The VQO to be met is Maximum Modification. In order to 

minimize visual disturbance and reduce visual contrast with adjacent areas use clearcutting with reserve trees 

(even-aged system) as a harvest prescription. 

SOILS: An on-site analysis for suitability on slopes greater than 72% was conducted on this unit per Forest Plan 

standards. The unit was modified following soils reconnaissance to exclude a landslide is located on hollow 

topography in the northern portion of the unit. Small cliffs up to 10 feet high are present along the steep slopes. 

A total of 1.4 acres of unstable slopes (including the landslide) are unsuitable for logging activities. See soils 

report for details. 

Slopes range from 30 to 80% and consistently average 60% across the existing unit. Landslide potential ranges 

from high to very high. Suitable slopes greater than 72% occupy approximately 5 acres in the northern portion of 

the unit. Partial suspension would be required across the unit to maintain slope stability (BMPs 13.5 and 13.9). 

Minimal forested wetland is present at the footslopes and shoulder slopes of the unit (BMP 12.5). See fisheries 

section for complete details on streamcourse protections (BMPs 12.6 and 13.16). 

WILDLIFE: Wildlife was in this unit for 5.5 hours with one possible goshawk response in the direction of Units 

6340-073 and 6340-111. An active sharp-shinned hawk was discovered in this unit. A 600 foot buffer was placed 

around the nest site. Disturbance would be minimized by restricting activity during the active nesting season, 

generally March 1 to July 31. 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-39 

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R-40  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-41 

LUD: Timber 

production 

Silvicultural 

Prescription: 

Even-aged 

CC 4113, 

Two-aged CC 

with reserves 

4177 

Total Unit Acres: 24 Unit Number: 0634-069 

VCU: 

TM 

Compartment: 

6340 

63402 

Logging 

Systems: 

SS/HE PC24 Harvest Acres: 24 In Selected Alternative 

Photo Number: 610051A 190-258 Net Harvest Volume: 

Inventoried Roadless 

Area Acres: 

24 MBF: 613 

SILVICULTURE: Existing Stand Condition/Vegetation: Stand average site index: 100; Productivity class: 2. 

Blowdown risk is moderate in the setting. Insect and Disease - The most prevalent disease noted within the stand 

was found to be dwarf mistletoe. The majority of volume loss could be attributed to stem decays. 

Silvicultural Objective/Desired Condition: The desired condition for this stand is a highly productive, healthy, 

windfirm, stand grown for timber management that retains residual trees as needed to meet standards and guides 

or other objectives. 

Silvicultural Prescription: Even-aged management –Clearcut (CC) 4113. Mark boundaries paying particular 

attention to windfirmness. For example, bring unit boundaries to the edge of existing young-growth or muskeg 

and to the lee side of a ridgeline where possible. Interdisciplinary review of RAW zones to determine RAW 

zone prescription should occur at the time of layout, as described in the Fish/Watershed section. Even-aged 

clearcutting is being prescribed for this unit to preclude or minimize the occurrence of potentially adverse 

impacts from hemlock dwarf mistletoe or other insect or disease infections, logging damage and windthrow. All 

past harvest adjacent to or near this prescribed clearcut are adequately restocked with trees at least 5 feet tall. 

Two-aged Management, Clearcut with Reserves 4177, Individual Tree Marking 

Maintain at least 50 percent of the setting pretreatment basal area, based on standing live tree total for the unit, 

uncut. Individual trees selected for harvest may occur in small groups. Any small groups will usually be less 

than one acre but may occasionally go up to two acres in size. Trees selected for harvest will generally be well 

distributed and no large openings will occur as a result of the harvest. Review full silvicultural prescription and 

marking guides prior to layout. Interdisciplinary review RAW zones as described in the fish/watershed section 

on unit card should occur at the time of layout to determine the RAW zone prescription. In general, additional 

retention to meet RAW requirements is not expected to be required where dispersed retention occurs in 

helicopter yarding areas. 

TIMBER/LOGGING: This setting has large v-notches and water quality streams on both the north and 

southwest boundaries. Benches may interrupt cable logging from a single road. Planned access is by spur route 

from the 1086 road. 

ENGINEERING/ROADS: See road card 

BOTANY RESOURCES: No concerns. 

FISH/WATERSHED: Stream 1- Class 1, MM1 no cut buffer 120’, Stream 10- Class 2, HC6 no cut buffer 100’ 

with RAW buffer on both sides; Class 3, HC6 slope break buffer with RAW buffer on both sides; Stream 9- 

Class 3, HC6 slope break buffer with RAW buffer on both sides. For watershed protection, buffer streams with 

additional RAW to the southerly direction. 
R-42  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

GEOLOGY/KARST: No concerns. 

HERITAGE RESOURCES: Proposed Units 6340-067, 6340-068, 6340-069, 6340-070, 6340-073, 6340-098, 

and 6340-111 fall within and area of high sensitivity for heritage resources. Obsidian (volcanic glass) cobbles 

have been noted in the lower reaches of the creeks deriving from the drainage basins containing these units. In 

place beds of obsidian have been identified in one location above 6340-069. Obsidian from this source is known 

to be a raw material for stone tool manufacture and trade dating back at least 10,000 years. Although surveys of 

these units (archaeological and other disciplines) have not identified a prehistoric quarry site there is the 

possibility that one exists. Options for mitigation in this situation include dropping these units (H1); or conduct 

archaeological monitoring in conjunction with road construction and harvest. Should sites of archaeological 

value be noted during monitoring data recovery would be undertaken (H3). A second contributing factor to the 

high sensitivity of these units is their proximity to the historic Spanish uses (1775 and 1779) of Port Santa Cruz. 

However, historic journals make no mention of upland activities by Spanish sailors. 

Aside from the possibility of obsidian quarry sites and its proximity to historic Spanish activity Unit 6340069 

has little likelihood of containing cultural resources. It lies on steep slopes at elevations between 90 and 620 feet 

above sea level. 

Archaeological survey and monitoring of the proposed unit and surrounding area were conducted on June 23-25, 

2008. No cultural resources were documented. There are no historic properties in the area of potential effects. 

LANDS: T 26 S, R 79 E, Sec. 20, 29 Copper River Meridian 

RECREATION: The site is a recreation site of interest because of its special geological features. It represents a 

unique recreation opportunity to see volcanic landforms, karst areas and other special geologic features. 

Recreation activities are limited in the area and harvest activities are unlikely to affect them. 

SCENERY: The units along the central west portion of Suemez Island are in middleground distance zone. This 

unit is seen from Port Santa Cruz (view point 4). The VQO to be met is Maximum Modification. In order to 

minimize visual disturbance and reduce visual contrast with adjacent areas use clearcutting with reserve trees 

(even-aged system) as a harvest prescription. 

SOILS: Partial suspension is required to meet soil quality standards and to protect wetland resources (BMPs 

12.5, 13.5, and 13.9). Aerial photos, GIS data, slope data, and soil survey data were reviewed by the soil 

scientist to identify potential soil resource concerns. No soil or slope concerns were identified; therefore, no field 

reconnaissance was completed by the soil scientist. See fisheries section for complete details on streamcourse 

protections (BMPs 12.6 and 13.16). 

WILDLIFE: Wildlife was in this unit for 5.5 hours with one possible goshawk response in the direction of Units 

6340-073 and 6340-111. Should a nest be discovered, all applicable Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines would 

be applied. 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-43 

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R-44  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-45 

LUD: Timber 

production 

Silvicultural 

Prescription: 

Two-aged CC 

with reserves 

4177 

Total Unit 

Acres: 

7 Unit Number: 0634-070 

VCU: 

TM 

Compartment: 

6340 

63402 

Logging 

Systems: 

 Harvest Acres: 7 In Selected Alternative 

Photo Number: 610051A 190-258 Net Harvest Volume: 

Inventoried Roadless 

Area Acres: 

7 MBF: 

CCF: 

142 

SILVICULTURE: Existing Stand Condition/Vegetation: Setting average site index: 100; Productivity class: 2. 

Blowdown risk is moderate within the setting. Insect and Disease - The most prevalent disease noted within the 

stand was found to be stem decays, which accounted for the majority of volume loss. Pockets of foliage damage 

were noted in understory and overstory Western Hemlock. This damage was unidentified in the field but either 

Hemlock Sawfly or Hemlock Canker is suspected. 

Silvicultural Objective/Desired Condition: The desired condition for this stand is a highly productive, healthy, 

windfirm, stand grown for timber management that retains residual trees as needed to meet standards and guides 

or other objectives. 

Silvicultural Prescription: Two-aged Management, Clearcut with Reserves 4177, Individual Tree Marking 

Maintain at least 50 percent of the setting pretreatment basal area, based on standing live tree total for the unit, 

uncut. Individual trees selected for harvest may occur in small groups. Any small groups will usually be less 

than one acre but may occasionally go up to two acres in size. Trees selected for harvest will generally be well 

distributed and no large openings will occur as a result of the harvest. Review full silvicultural prescription and 

marking guides prior to layout. Interdisciplinary review RAW zones as described in the fish/watershed section 

on unit card should occur at the time of layout to determine the RAW zone prescription. In general, additional 

retention to meet RAW requirements is not expected to be required where dispersed retention occurs in 

helicopter yarding areas. 

TIMBER/LOGGING: Logging System and Roading Options - This setting has large v-notches on both the north 

and south boundaries. These notches would stop a mid-slope road coming into the unit from either direction. 

The planned road enters the unit from the top and switchbacks down the hill until reaching a significant break. 

Landings at planned location appear workable for Running Skyline or Live Skyline systems. Overall setting has 

poor timber due to high defect in larger diameter classes. The area of scrub timber in the southeast has been 

deleted. 

ENGINEERING/ROADS: See Road Card 

BOTANY RESOURCES: No concerns. 

FISH/WATERSHED: Stream 1- Class 1, MM 1 no cut buffer 120’; Class 2, HC3 no cut buffer 100’; Stream 8- 

Class 3, HC6 slope break buffer; Stream 9- Class 3, HC6 slope break buffer with RAW buffer on both sides. For 

watershed protection, buffer streams with additional RAW to the southerly direction. 

GEOLOGY/KARST: No concerns. 

HERITAGE RESOURCES: Proposed Units 6340-067, 6340-068, 6340-069, 6340-070, 6340-073, 6340-098, 

and 6340111 fall within and area of high sensitivity for heritage resources. Obsidian (volcanic glass) cobbles 
R-46  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

have been noted in the lower reaches of the creeks deriving from the drainage basins containing these units. In 

place beds of obsidian have been identified in one location above 6340-069. Obsidian from this source is known 

to be a raw material for stone tool manufacture and trade dating back at least 10,000 years. Although surveys of 

these units (archaeological and other disciplines) have not identified a prehistoric quarry site there is the 

possibility that one exists. Options for mitigation in this situation include dropping these units (H1); or conduct 

archaeological monitoring in conjunction with road construction and harvest. Should sites of archaeological 

value be noted during monitoring data recovery would be undertaken (H3). A second contributing factor to the 

high sensitivity of these units is their proximity to the historic Spanish uses (1775 and 1779) of Port Santa Cruz. 

However, historic journals make no mention of upland activities by Spanish sailors. 

Aside from the possibility of obsidian quarry sites and its proximity to historic Spanish activity Unit 6340070 

has little likelihood of containing cultural resources. It lies on steep slopes at elevations between 240 and 560 

feet above sea level. 

Archaeological survey and monitoring of the proposed unit and surrounding area were conducted on June 23-25, 

2008. No cultural resources were documented. There are no historic properties in the area of potential effects. 

LANDS: T 76 S, R 79E, S20, 29 Copper River Meridian 

RECREATION: The site is a recreation site of interest because of its special geological features. It represents a 

unique recreation opportunity to see volcanic landforms, karst areas and other special geologic features. 

Recreation activities are limited in the area and harvest activities are unlikely to affect them. 

SCENERY: The units along the central west portion of Suemez Island are in middleground distance zone. This 

unit is seen from Port Santa Cruz (view point 4). The VQO to be met is Maximum Modification. In order to 

minimize visual disturbance and reduce visual contrast with adjacent areas use clearcutting with reserve trees 

(even-aged system) as a harvest prescription. 

SOILS: Partial suspension is required to meet soil quality standards and to protect wetland resources (BMPs 

12.5, 13.5, and 13.9). Aerial photos, GIS data, slope data, and soil survey data were reviewed by the soil 

scientist to identify potential soil resource concerns. No soil or slope concerns were identified; therefore, no field 

reconnaissance was completed by the soil scientist. See fisheries section for complete details on streamcourse 

protections (BMPs 12.6 and 13.16). 

WILDLIFE: Wildlife was in this unit for 5.5 hours with one possible goshawk response in the direction of Units 

6340-073 and 6340-111. Should a nest be discovered, all applicable Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines would 

be applied. 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-47 

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R-48  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-49 

LUD: Timber 

production 

Silvicultural 

Prescription: 

Two-aged CC 

with reserves 

4177 

Total Unit 

Acres: 

28 Unit Number: 0634-073 

VCU: 

TM Compartment: 

6340 

63401 

Logging 

Systems: 

HE PC24 Harvest Acres: 28 In Selected Alternative 

Photo Number: 610051A 190-258 Net Harvest Volume: 

Inventoried Roadless 

Area Acres: 

28 MBF: 

CCF: 

620 

SILVICULTURE: Existing Stand Condition/Vegetation: 

Setting average site index: 100; Productivity class: 2. Blowdown risk is high at the uppermost elevations within 

the setting. Blowdown risk in the remaining portions of the setting is expected to decrease with elevation. Insect 

and Disease - The most prevalent disease noted within the stand was found to be dwarf mistletoe. The majority 

of volume loss could be attributed to stem decays. Minor pockets of foliage damage were noted in understory 

Western Hemlock. This damage was attributed to Hemlock Canker. 

Silvicultural Objective/Desired Condition: The desired condition for this stand is a highly productive, healthy, 

windfirm, stand grown for timber management that retains residual trees as needed to meet standards and guides 

or other objectives. 

Silvicultural Prescription: Two-aged Management, Clearcut with Reserves 4177, Individual Tree Marking 

Maintain at least 50 percent of the setting pretreatment basal area, based on standing live tree total for the unit, 

uncut. Individual trees selected for harvest may occur in small groups. Any small groups will usually be less than 

one acre but may occasionally go up to two acres in size. Trees selected for harvest will generally be well 

distributed and no large openings will occur as a result of the harvest. Review full silvicultural prescription and 

marking guides prior to layout. Interdisciplinary review RAW zones as described in the fish/watershed section 

on unit card should occur at the time of layout to determine the RAW zone prescription. In general, additional 

retention to meet RAW requirements is not expected to be required where dispersed retention occurs in 

helicopter yarding areas. 

TIMBER/LOGGING: This setting is planned for helicopter logging. Original setting 6340-073 has steep slopes, 

cliffs, areas of low volume timber, streams and v-notches in the center of the setting. These have been deleted 

from harvest consideration (see map). This deletion would split the setting into two potential harvests. 

ENGINEERING/ROADS: See road card. 

BOTANY RESOURCES: No concerns. 

FISH/WATERSHED: Stream 4- Class 2, HC5 no cut buffer 100’; Class 3, HC5/HC6 slope break buffer; Stream 

5- Class 4, HC6; Stream 1- Class 2, HC3 no cut buffer 100’; Stream 7- Class 2, HC2/HC6 no cut buffer 100’; 

Class 3, HC6 slope break buffer. For watershed protection, buffer streams with additional RAW to the southerly 

direction. 

GEOLOGY/KARST: No concerns 

HERITAGE RESOURCES: Proposed Units 6340-067, 6340-068, 6340-069, 6340-070, 6340-073, 6340-098, and 

6340111 fall within and area of high sensitivity for heritage resources. Obsidian (volcanic glass) cobbles have 

been noted in the lower reaches of the creeks deriving from the drainage basins containing these units. In place 

beds of obsidian have been identified in one location above 6340-069. Obsidian from this source is known to be 
R-50  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

a raw material for stone tool manufacture and trade dating back at least 10,000 years. Although surveys of these 

units (archaeological and other disciplines) have not identified a prehistoric quarry site there is the possibility 

that one exists. Options for mitigation in this situation include dropping these units (H1); or conduct 

archaeological monitoring in conjunction with road construction and harvest. Should sites of archaeological 

value be noted during monitoring data recovery would be undertaken (H3). A second contributing factor to the 

high sensitivity of these units is their proximity to the historic Spanish uses (1775 and 1779) of Port Santa Cruz. 

However, historic journals make no mention of upland activities by Spanish sailors. 

Aside from the possibility of obsidian quarry sites and its proximity to historic Spanish activity the two part Unit 

6340-073 has little likelihood of containing cultural resources. It lies on steep slopes at elevations between 150 

and 810 feet above sea level. 

Archaeological survey and monitoring of the proposed unit and surrounding area were conducted on June 23-25, 

2008. No cultural resources were documented. There are no historic properties in the area of potential effects. 

LANDS: T 76S; R 79E , Sec. 29 Copper River Meridian 

RECREATION: The site is a recreation site of interest because of its special geological features. It represents a 

unique recreation opportunity to see volcanic landforms, karst areas and other special geologic features. 

Recreation activities are limited in the area and harvest activities are unlikely to affect them. 

SCENERY: The units along the central west portion of Suemez Island are in middleground distance zone. This 

unit is seen from Port Santa Cruz (view point 4). The VQO to be met is Maximum Modification. In order to 

minimize visual disturbance and reduce visual contrast with adjacent areas use clearcutting with reserve trees 

(even-aged system) as a harvest prescription. 

SOILS: An on-site analysis for suitability on slopes >72% was conducted on this unit per Forest Plan standards. 

The unit was modified following soils reconnaissance to exclude a 4 acre patch of slopes >72% unsuitable for 

harvest activities. A landslide recently originated in the unstable Kupreanof soils on these steep slopes. See soils 

report for details. 

Slopes range from 30 to 50% across the existing unit. Landslide potential ranges from moderate to high across 

the unit. Partial suspension would be required across the unit to maintain slope stability (BMPs 13.5 and 13.9). 

Minor areas of forested wetland are present along the footslopes and floodplains. 

WILDLIFE: Wildlife was in this unit for 5.5 hours. A possible goshawk response was heard in the vicinity of 

this unit. A follow up visit to this area was done but no goshawks were seen or heard. Should a nest be 

discovered, all applicable Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines would be applied. 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-51 

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R-52  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-53 

LUD: Timber 

production 

Silvicultural 

Prescription: 

Even-aged CC 

4113, Twoaged CC with 

reserves 4177

Total Unit 

Acres: 

64 Unit Number: 6340-098 

VCU: 

TM Compartment: 

6340 

63402 

Logging 

Systems: 

HE & HE 

PC24 

Harvest Acres: 64 In Selected Alternative 

Photo Number: 610051A 190-258 Net Harvest Volume: 

Inventoried 

Roadless Area 

Acres: 

Approx. 44 MBF: 

CCF: 

1,113 

SILVICULTURE: Existing Stand Condition/Vegetation: Stand average site index: 80; Productivity class: 4. 

Blowdown risk is high at the uppermost elevations within the central part of the setting. Blowdown risk in the 

remaining portions of the setting is expected to decrease with elevation. Insect and Disease - The most prevalent 

disease noted within the stand was found to be dwarf mistletoe. Alaska Cedar Decline was prominent in areas of 

wetland soils. The majority of volume loss could be attributed to stem decays. 

Silvicultural Objective/Desired Condition: The desired condition for this stand is a highly productive, healthy, 

windfirm, stand grown for timber management that retains residual trees as needed to meet standards and guides 

or other objectives. 

Silvicultural Prescription: Even-aged management –Clearcut (CC) 4113. Mark boundaries paying particular 

attention to windfirmness. For example, bring unit boundaries to the edge of existing young-growth or muskeg 

and to the lee side of a ridgeline where possible. Interdisciplinary review of RAW zones to determine RAW zone 

prescription should occur at the time of layout, as described in the Fish/Watershed section. Even-aged 

clearcutting is being prescribed for this unit to preclude or minimize the occurrence of potentially adverse 

impacts from hemlock dwarf mistletoe or other insect or disease infections, logging damage and windthrow. All 

past harvest areas adjacent to or near this prescribed clearcut are adequately restocked with trees at least 5 feet 

tall. 

Two-aged Management, Clearcut with Reserves 4177, Individual Tree Marking 

Maintain at least 50 percent of the setting pretreatment basal area, based on standing live tree total for the unit, 

uncut. Individual trees selected for harvest may occur in small groups. Any small groups will usually be less than 

one acre but may occasionally go up to two acres in size. Trees selected for harvest will generally be well 

distributed and no large openings will occur as a result of the harvest. Review full silvicultural prescription and 

marking guides prior to layout. Interdisciplinary review RAW zones as described in the fish/watershed section 

on unit card should occur at the time of layout to determine the RAW zone prescription. In general, additional 

retention to meet RAW requirements is not expected to be required where dispersed retention occurs in 

helicopter yarding areas. 

TIMBER/LOGGING: This setting was planned for helicopter yarding in the LSTA. Areas of forested wetland 

have been deleted in the central western part of the setting as well as along the northern boundary. Fringe areas 

and some additional areas may remain in the unit. 

ENGINEERING/ROADS: See Road Card 

BOTANY RESOURCES: No concerns. 
R-54  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

FISH/WATERSHED: Stream 1- Class 1, FP3 no cut buffer 130’; Stream 4- Class 3, HC6 slope break buffer, 

Stream 5- Class 4, HC6. To protect watershed, buffer Class III stream with additional RAW to the southeasterly 

direction. Evidence of windthrow to the east of unit following past harvest. Potential for direct impact of 

sedimentation to downstream fish habitat. 

GEOLOGY/KARST: No concerns. 

HERITAGE RESOURCES: Proposed Units 6340-067, 6340-068, 6340-069, 6340-070, 6340-073, 6340-098, and 

6340111 fall within and area of high sensitivity for heritage resources. Obsidian (volcanic glass) cobbles have 

been noted in the lower reaches of the creeks deriving from the drainage basins containing these units. In place 

beds of obsidian have been identified in one location above 6340-069. Obsidian from this source is known to be 

a raw material for stone tool manufacture and trade dating back at least 10,000 years. Although surveys of these 

units (archaeological and other disciplines) have not identified a prehistoric quarry site there is the possibility 

that one exists. Options for mitigation in this situation include dropping these units (H1); or conduct 

archaeological monitoring in conjunction with road construction and harvest. Should sites of archaeological 

value be noted during monitoring data recovery would be undertaken (H3). A second contributing factor to the 

high sensitivity of these units is their proximity to the historic Spanish uses (1775 and 1779) of Port Santa Cruz. 

However, historic journals make no mention of upland activities by Spanish sailors. 

Aside from the possibility of obsidian quarry sites and its proximity to historic Spanish activity Unit 6340098 

has little likelihood of containing cultural resources. It lies on steep slopes at elevations between 40 and 600 feet 

above sea level. 

Archaeological survey and monitoring of the proposed unit and surrounding area were conducted on June 23-25, 

2008. No cultural resources were documented. There are no historic properties in the area of potential effects. 

LANDS: T 76S; R 79E, Sec. 21 Copper River Meridian 

RECREATION: Although no developed recreation sites exist in this unit, it is in the proximity of a perennially 

utilized recreation site. The first Spanish contact in Alaska occurred at the mouth of the stream that runs through 

this unit. Currently, the Catholic Church maintains a pilgrimage site to this area to celebrate the first Catholic 

Mass in Alaska. It is a recreation site of interest (see recreation and heritage sections for more details). No 

mitigation measures are suggested because the recreation site is on the beach fringe and would not likely be 

affected by the harvest activities. 

The site is also a recreation site of interest because of its special geological features. It represents a unique 

recreation opportunity to see volcanic landforms, karst areas and other special geologic features. Recreation is 

limited in the area and would not likely be affected by the harvest activities. 

SCENERY: The units along the central west portion of Suemez Island are in middleground distance zone. This 

unit is seen from Port Santa Cruz (view point 4). The VQO to be met is Maximum Modification. In order to 

minimize visual disturbance and reduce visual contrast with adjacent areas use clearcutting with reserve trees 

(even-aged system) as a harvest prescription. 

SOILS: Partial suspension is required to meet soil quality standards and to protect wetland resources (BMPs 

12.5, 13.5, and 13.9). Aerial photos, GIS data, slope data, and soil survey data were reviewed by the soil scientist 

to identify potential soil resource concerns. No soil or slope concerns were identified; therefore, no field 

reconnaissance was completed by the soil scientist. See fisheries section for complete details on streamcourse 

protections (BMPs 12.6 and 13.16). 

WILDLIFE: Wildlife spent about 6.5 hours surveying in this unit. No evidence of goshawk use was seen. Should 

a nest be discovered, all applicable Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines would be applied. 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-55 

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R-56  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-57 

LUD: Timber 

production 

Silvicultural 

Prescription: 

Two-aged CC 

with reserves 

4177 

Total Unit 

Acres: 

18 Unit Number: 6340-111 

VCU: 

TM 

Compartment: 

6340 

63402 

Logging 

Systems: 

HE PC24 Harvest Acres: 18 In Selected Alternative 

Photo Number: 610051A 190-258 Net Harvest Volume: 

Inventoried Roadless 

Area Acres: 

18 MBF: 

CCF: 

298 

SILVICULTURE: Existing Stand Condition/Vegetation: Setting average site index: 100; Productivity class: 2. 

Blowdown risk is high at the uppermost elevations within the setting. Blowdown risk in the remaining portions 

of the setting is expected to decrease with elevation to a moderate risk. Insect and Disease - The most prevalent 

disease noted within the stand was found to be dwarf mistletoe. The majority of volume loss could be attributed 

to stem decays. Minor pockets of foliage damage were noted in understory Western Hemlock. This damage was 

attributed to Hemlock Canker. 

Silvicultural Objective/Desired Condition: The desired condition for this stand is a highly productive, healthy, 

windfirm, stand grown for timber management that retains residual trees as needed to meet standards and guides 

or other objectives. 

Silvicultural Prescription: Two-aged Management, Clearcut with Reserves 4177, Individual Tree Marking 

Maintain at least 50 percent of the setting pretreatment basal area, based on standing live tree total for the unit, 

uncut. Individual trees selected for harvest may occur in small groups. Any small groups will usually be less 

than one acre but may occasionally go up to two acres in size. Trees selected for harvest will generally be well 

distributed and no large openings will occur as a result of the harvest. Review full silvicultural prescription and 

marking guides prior to layout. Interdisciplinary review RAW zones as described in the fish/watershed section 

on unit card should occur at the time of layout to determine the RAW zone prescription. In general, additional 

retention to meet RAW requirements is not expected to be required where dispersed retention occurs in 

helicopter yarding areas. 

TIMBER/LOGGING: This setting is planned in the LSTA for helicopter yarding. Potential for road access to 

this setting may exist from a system road in settings 6340-068 and 6340-069. This route has not been verified 

on the ground. (This route was later determined to not be feasible due to stream crossings and unsuitable soils.) 

ENGINEERING/ROADS: See Road Card 

BOTANY RESOURCES: No concerns. 

FISH/WATERSHED: Stream 1- Class 1, MM1 no cut buffer 120’; Stream 2- Class 2, HC1 no cut buffer 100’ 

with RAW buffer on south side; Class 3, HC1 slope break buffer with RAW buffer on south side; Stream 3- 

Class 2, HC1 no cut buffer 100’ with RAW buffer on south side; Class 3, HC1 slope break buffer with RAW 

buffer on south side. For protection of watershed, buffer streams with additional RAW to the southerly 

direction. 

GEOLOGY/KARST: No concerns. 

HERITAGE RESOURCES: Proposed Units 6340-067, 6340-068, 6340-069, 6340-070, 6340-073, 6340-098, 

and 6340111 fall within and area of high sensitivity for heritage resources. Obsidian (volcanic glass) cobbles 
R-58  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

have been noted in the lower reaches of the creeks deriving from the drainage basins containing these units. In 

place beds of obsidian have been identified in one location above 6340-069. Obsidian from this source is known 

to be a raw material for stone tool manufacture and trade dating back at least 10,000 years. Although surveys of 

these units (archaeological and other disciplines) have not identified a prehistoric quarry site there is the 

possibility that one exists. Options for mitigation in this situation include dropping these units (H1); or conduct 

archaeological monitoring in conjunction with road construction and harvest. Should sites of archaeological 

value be noted during monitoring data recovery would be undertaken (H3). A second contributing factor to the 

high sensitivity of these units is their proximity to the historic Spanish uses (1775 and 1779) of Port Santa Cruz. 

However, historic journals make no mention of upland activities by Spanish sailors. 

Aside from the possibility of obsidian quarry sites and its proximity to historic Spanish activity Unit 6340111 

has little likelihood of containing cultural resources. It lies on steep slopes at elevations between 150 and 770 

feet above sea level. 

Archaeological survey and monitoring of the proposed unit and surrounding area were conducted on June 23-

25, 2008. No cultural resources were documented. There are no historic properties in the area of potential 

effects. 

LANDS: T 76S; R 79 E, Sec. 20 Copper River Meridian 

RECREATION: The site is a recreation site of interest because of its special geological features. It represents a 

unique recreation opportunity to see volcanic landforms, karst areas and other special geologic features. No 

developed recreation sites exist in the area. Due to the limited number of dispersed recreation users, it is 

unlikely that the timber harvest would affect recreation opportunities in this unit. 

SCENERY: Visual management objective for this unit is Modification. The unit is seen from Port Dolores 

(view point 1). Use even-age harvest systems (clearcutting with reserves) with reduced acreage only where 

visual analysis simulations have shown VQOs would be met; or use reserves under a two-age harvest system to 

reduce visual contrast with adjacent areas by leaving reserve trees under a two-aged system as a harvest 

prescription; or use patch/strip clearcutting to reduce visual contrast with adjacent areas by using patch or strip 

clearcutting (two-aged or uneven-aged systems) as a harvest prescription. 

SOILS: An on-site analysis for suitability on slopes >72% was conducted on this unit per Forest Plan standards. 

The unit was modified following soils reconnaissance to exclude a total of 15 acres in the central and 

southwestern portions of the original unit due to steep slopes and unstable soils. See soils report for details. 

Slopes average less than 60% across the existing unit. The unit is suitable for harvest with partial suspension 

(BMPs 13.5 and 13.9). Landslide potential ranges from moderate to high. Minor areas of forested wetland are 

present along the slope benches and the Class II floodplain (BMP 12.5). See fisheries section for complete 

details on streamcourse protections (BMPs 12.6 and 13.16). 

WILDLIFE: Wildlife spent 5.5 hours in this unit. A possible goshawk detection was heard. A follow up survey 

was done with no detections. Should a nest be discovered, all applicable Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines 

would be applied. 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-59 

Appendix 2 

Road Card 
R-60  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 
Road Card 1086500 – Scratchings 

Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-61 

Project System Land Use Designation 

Scratchings Suemez Timber Production 

Route No Route Name Begin Terminus End Terminus 

1086500 MP 4.2 of Rd. 1086000 MP 0.79 

Begin MP Length Route Status Managing Organization 

0.00 0.79 PL 100551 

General Design Criteria and Elements 

Functional Service Traffic Design Critical Design 

Class Life Service Level Surface Width Speed Vehicle Vehicle 

L S D Rock 14 10 Log Truck Log Truck 

Intended Purpose/Future Use 

Access for silvicultural activities; during periods of operation manage as maintenance level 2. Manage as 

maintenance level 1, storage, between periods of operation. 

Maintenance Criteria 

Bmp Emp Operational 

Maintenance Level 

(Current/Initial 

Condition)

Objective

Maintenance Level 

(Desired Future 

Condition)

Alaska Forest 

Resources & Practices 

Act Class 

0.00 0.79 2 1 Inactive 

Maintenance Narrative 

Road will be maintained in “Active” status while road is open during timber haul; post timber haul road will be 

stored and maintained in “Inactive” status. 

AFR&P Regs. “Active” status: Keep culverts, catch basins, ditches and ditch blocks functional. Grade as needed to 

maintain crown and running surface. Control roadside brush to maintain sight distance. 

AFR&P Regs. “Inactive” status: Road is stored. Remove or bypass all drainage structures to restore natural 

drainage patterns, add water bars as needed to control runoff, and seed and fertilize disturbed soils. The road will be 

placed in a self maintaining state. 

Operation Criteria 

Highway Safety Act: No Jurisdiction: National Forest Ownership 

Traffic Encourage: N/A 

Management Strategies Accept: Hikers, Bicycles 

Discourage: N/A 

Prohibit: N/A 

 Eliminate: N/A 

Travel Management Narrative: Use by trucks is expected to be minimal for silvicultural purposes. This road system 

is not connected to any public or community road systems or to any ferry system terminal. The road system is to be 

closed to motorized vehicles during and after initial entry. After silvicultural activities are completed road will have 

drainage structures removed and road put into storage (FRPA status of closed). 

Approved________________________ ________________________ 

District Ranger Date 
R-62  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

Site Specific Design Criteria - Road # 1086500 

The following mitigation measures either are in the road design or will be applied during project 

implementation: F2, F3, F4, F5, F6, F7, F9, F10, F12, F14, F15, F16, F17. These measures are described 

below in the resource sections that apply and correspond to Appendix D in the Scratchings Final EIS. 

ROAD LOCATION: Road accesses Unit 634-067 and 634-068. Adverse grades to 15% coming out of 

Unit 634-067. A 36 inch cmp required for stream at edge of reproduction and a log culvert required at MP 

0.15. Road is located to accommodate logging systems and have least impact on other resources (BMP 

14.2). During construction follow BMPs 14.6, 14.7, 14.12, 14.14, 14.17, and 14.19. Full bench 

construction required on slopes over 55%. End haul material to area designated by Forest Service 

specialist (BMP 14.7 and 14.12). 

WETLANDS: The majority of the route (0.77 miles) is located on emergent short sedge and forested 

wetlands. Road construction in these wetlands is unavoidable (BMP 12.5, 14.2) along the ridgeline route 

due to the high density of wetland complexes across the ridgeline. Road location was completed to avoid 

wetlands, although construction in wetlands was unavoidable on the entire length of the proposed road 

due to safety considerations, engineering design constraints and considerations for other resources. 

Overlay construction is recommended to minimize disturbance to the wetland and ensure adequate 

drainage is provided to maintain hydrologic connectivity of the roaded wetland with the surrounding areas 

(BMP 12.5, 14.3, 14.9, 14.17 and CFR BMPs 5 and 7). The road is planned for storage following harvest 

by means of removing drainage structures (BMP 14.22 and CFR BMPs 2 and 7). Storage should be 

adequate to discourage ATVs from crossing streams and wetlands. This road meets the silviculture 

exemption for 404 permitting through Army Corp of Engineers. 

Road location was completed to avoid wetlands, although wetlands were unavoidable on the entire length 

of the proposed road due to safety considerations, engineering design constraints and considerations for 

other resources. 

EROSION CONTROL: An erosion control plan for construction and maintenance will be developed 

according to standard project specifications (BMP 14.5). All areas of organic or mineral soil exposed 

during construction shall be grass seeded and fertilized (BMP 12.17, 14.8). 

ROCK PITS: Timing will be required on all pit and r/w blasting within 1/2 mile of known eagle nests. 

Rock source for this road will be located off of designated wetlands. During periods of high rainfall (as 

defined in current Regional specifications), blasting operations will be suspended at quarries near 

potentially unstable sites where ground vibration may induce mass movement (BMP 14.6). 

STREAM CROSSINGS: 

MP 0.15 AHMU Class 2 Channel Type - HC Incision 

Max. Width - 7 feet Gradient - 12% Substrate - Cobbles to 

10” 

Structure - Log culvert Passage - Yes Timing dates – 6/15 to 

9/1 

Narrative: Provide for fish timing. Remove structure post harvest. 
Scratchings Record of Decision II ROD  R-63 

MP 0.66 AHMU Class 3 Channel Type - HC Incision - 15 

Max. Width – 6 feet Gradient - 43 Substrate – Cobbles / 

Bedrock 

Structure – 48 cmp Passage - No Timing dates – NA 

Narrative: Remove post harvest 

MP 0.71 AHMU Class 3 Channel Type HC Incision - 15 

Max. Width - 5 Gradient 52 Substrate - Cobbles 

/ Bedrock 

Structure – 36 cmp Passage - No Timing dates – NA 

Narrative: Remove post harvest 

MP 0.72 AHMU Class 4 Channel Type HC Incision - 3 

Max. Width - 2 Gradient 48 Substrate - 

Structure – 18 cmp Passage - No Timing dates – NA 

Narrative: Remove post harvest 

OTHER RESOURCE INFORMATION (if applicable) 

TIMBER/LOGGING SYSTEMS: Road provides access to Units 634-067 and 634-068. Road will also 

function as helicopter landing for Units 634-111 and 634-073. Post harvest surveys will be needed in 

these units within 4 years of harvest. If road closure is required after harvest activity is complete, close so 

that ATV use is possible for administrative purposes. 

WILDLIFE/BOTANY: No concerns. Should any raptor nests be discovered, all applicable standards and 

guidelines will be applied. 

VISUAL/RECREATION: No Visual Concerns. 

HERITAGE - Proposed Units 634-067, 634-068, 634-069, 634-070, 634-073, 634-098, and 634-111 and 

associated roads fall within and area of high sensitivity for heritage resources. Obsidian (volcanic glass) 

cobbles have been noted in the lower reaches of the creeks deriving from the drainage basins containing 

these units. In-place beds of obsidian have been identified in one location above 634-069. Obsidian from 

this source is known to be a raw material for stone tool manufacture and trade dating back at least 10,000 

years in southeast Alaska. Although surveys of these units (archaeological and other disciplines) have not 

identified a prehistoric quarry site there is the possibility that one exists. Options for mitigation in this 

situation include dropping these units (H1); or conducting archaeological monitoring in conjunction with 

road construction and harvest. Should sites of archaeological value be noted during monitoring data 

recovery would be undertaken (H3). A second contributing factor to the high sensitivity of these units is 

their proximity to the historic Spanish uses (1775 and 1779) of Port Santa Cruz. However, historic 

journals make no mention of upland activities by Spanish sailors. 
R-64  ROD Scratchings Record of Decision II 

Aside from the possibility of obsidian quarry sites and its proximity to historic Spanish activity this road 

has little likelihood of containing cultural resources. It lies on steep slopes at high elevations. 

Archaeological survey and monitoring of the proposed unit and surrounding area were conducted on June 

23-25, 2008. No cultural resources were documented. There are no historic properties in the area of 

potential effects. 

SOILS/WATER: The proposed route initiates from the 1086 road and traverses north along the ridgeline 

to Units 634-067 and 634-068. The road across the ridgeline is located on gentle slopes. The majority of 

the ridgeline route is located on emergent short sedge and forested wetlands. Overlay road is 

recommended to minimize disturbance to the wetland and ensure adequate drainage is provided to 

maintain hydrologic connectivity of the roaded wetland with the surrounding areas. Apply BMPs 12.5, 

14.2, and 14.17 and CFR BMPs 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 14. The route does traverse across the upper slopes of the 

timber units. Some areas of steep slopes are encountered. Full bench road construction with endhaul will 

be required on road segments with slopes exceeding 55 percent (BMP 14.7 and 14.12). All areas of 

organic and mineral soil exposed during construction shall be grass seeded and fertilized (BMPs 12.7 and 

14.8). Road is scheduled for storage following timber sale activities. Storage activities would involve 

culvert removal, water bar placement, and revegetating road bed and potential erosion sources (BMP 14.8, 

14.22). 

INVASIVE SPECIES: Due to the absence of high priority invasive species in the area, and the low risk 

of spread due to minimal footprint for road construction, no mitigation measures are proposed.