U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan and 

Environmental Assessment 

 

 

Selawik National Wildlife Refuge 

September 2010 

Comprehensive Conn Asses Re
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Mission Statement

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working 

with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, 

plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the 

American people.

Refuge Mission Statement

The mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System is to

administer a national network of lands and waters for the 

conservation, management, and, where appropriate, 

restoration of the fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their 

habitats within the United States for the benefit of present 

and future generations of Americans.

—National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997

The comprehensive conservation plan details program planning levels that are 

substantially greater than current budget allocations and, as such, is for strategic 

planning and program prioritization purposes only. This plan does not constitute a 

commitment for staffing increases or funding for future refuge-specific land 

acquisitions, construction projects, or operational and maintenance increases.

Cover photo from the image library of the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge
Draft Revised

Comprehensive Conservation Plan

And

Environmental Assessment 

Selawik National Wildlife Refuge

September 2010 

Prepared by:

Alaska Region

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Division of Conservation Planning 

P.O. Box 270 and Policy 

Kotzebue, AK 99752 1011 East Tudor Road, MS 231

 Anchorage, AK 99503

United States Department of the Interior

FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE

National Wildlife Refuge System – Alaska

Division of Conservation Planning and Policy

1011 East Tudor Road – MS 231

Anchorage, Alaska 99503

(907) 786-3357

Dear Reader:

This is the Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan (Plan) and Environmental 

Assessment (EA) for the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge. The final version of this Plan will 

guide management of the refuge for the next 15 years. This draft outlines three alternatives, 

including our preferred alternative, and presents our evaluation of the environmental 

consequences of the alternatives. Additionally, the refuge manager’s preliminary reviews of the 

compatibility of refuge uses with refuge purposes are presented in Appendix D, Compatibility

Determinations.

Please provide comments on the Draft Plan by January 15, 2011. Comments should be specific, 

addressing merits of the alternatives and adequacy of the environmental analysis. We will 

consider your comments as we prepare the Final Plan. Environmental objections that could have 

been raised at the draft stage may be waived if not raised until after completion of the Final Plan.

Public meetings will be held in Kotzebue and other area communities during the public review 

period. Meeting dates, times, and locations will be announced locally.

All public comments received will become part of the public record for this action. Before including 

your name, address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in 

your comments, you should be aware that your entire comment—including your personal identifying 

information—may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to 

withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will 

be able to do so.

You may view this Draft Plan online at http://www.r7.fws.gov/nwr/planning/plans.htm , or 

obtain it on a compact disk (forthcoming). 

Comments and requests for CD-ROMs or Request for more information about

more information should be directed to: Selawik refuge should be directed to:

Jeffrey Brooks, Planning Team Leader Lee Anne Ayres, Refuge Manager

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Selawik National Wildlife Refuge

1011 E. Tudor Road, MS-231 P.O. Box 270 

Anchorage, AK 99503 Kotzebue, AK 99752

907-786-3839 907-442-3799 

selawik_planning@fws.gov selawik@fws.gov 

 http://selawik.fws.gov/

We thank everyone who participated in the planning and public involvement process.

Your comments helped us prepare a better plan for the future of Selawik refuge.
A Note on Compatibility Determinations

Determining the compatibility of uses is a key process by which refuge managers decide 

what activities will be allowed on National Wildlife Refuges. An essential element in the 

process is providing the public an opportunity to provide input for the refuge manager to 

consider as he or she determines if a use is compatible with the purposes for which a 

refuge was established.

Compatibility determinations are required for all economic and public use activities, as 

well as for recreational and educational facilities provided by the refuge, and for refuge 

economic activities. Compatibility determinations are not required for refuge 

management activities such as scientific studies or surveys; historic preservation 

activities; law enforcement activities; and/or maintenance of refuge management facilities, 

structures, and improvement. Economic uses must contribute to achieving refuge 

purposes and the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System.

We reevaluate compatibility determinations for existing wildlife-dependent recreational 

uses when we prepare or revise a comprehensive conservation plan, or every 15 years, 

whichever is sooner. We reevaluate other uses every 10 years, or sooner, if conditions 

change or significant new information relative to the use and its effects becomes available.

As part of the review of this Draft Plan, you are invited to provide relevant information or 

comment on the compatibility determinations for Selawik National Wildlife Refuge. A 

discussion of compatibility determinations can be found in Chapter 2, Section 2.4.6. The 

environmental analysis in Chapter 4 may provide a starting point on which to base your 

comments. The complete text of each draft compatibility determination can be found in 

Appendix D. 

Public comment on the draft compatibility determinations will be addressed in the final 

determination to be released with the Final Plan. More information on the compatibility 

process can be found at http://alaska.fws.gov/nwr/planning/compdeter.htm. 
Table of Contents 

Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan vii

Table of Contents 

1. Introduction............................................................................................................................. 1-1

1.1 Purpose and Need for Action ......................................................................................... 1-1

1.2 Planning Context............................................................................................................. 1-2

1.2.1 The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service............................................................................ 1-2

1.2.2 The National Wildlife Refuge System....................................................................... 1-3

1.2.3 Principles of Refuge Management ............................................................................ 1-4

1.3 Legal and Policy Guidance and State Coordination .................................................... 1-4

1.3.1 Legal Guidance ............................................................................................................ 1-4

1.3.2 Policy Guidance............................................................................................................ 1-5

1.3.3 Coordination with the State of Alaska ...................................................................... 1-6

1.4 Refuge Purposes, Vision, and Goals .............................................................................. 1-9

1.4.1 Refuge Purposes.......................................................................................................... 1-9

1.4.2 Refuge Vision............................................................................................................... 1-9

1.4.3 Refuge Vision Statement in English ....................................................................... 1-10

1.4.4 Refuge Vision Statement in Iñupiaq ....................................................................... 1-10

1.4.5 Refuge Goals .............................................................................................................. 1-10

1.4.6 Goal Statements in English...................................................................................... 1-10

1.4.7 Goal Statements in Iñupiaq...................................................................................... 1-11

1.5 Refuge Overview............................................................................................................ 1-12

1.5.1 Refuge Establishment .............................................................................................. 1-12

1.5.2 Physical Environment............................................................................................... 1-12

1.5.3 Biological Resources ................................................................................................. 1-13

1.5.4 Human Presence and Activities............................................................................... 1-14

1.6 Special Values ................................................................................................................ 1-15

1.6.1 Western Arctic Caribou Herd.................................................................................. 1-15

1.6.2 Wetlands and Waterfowl .......................................................................................... 1-15

1.6.3 Whitefish Spawning .................................................................................................. 1-15

1.6.4 Natural Processes ..................................................................................................... 1-15

1.6.5 Subsistence Way of Life ........................................................................................... 1-16

1.6.6 Wilderness Values and Designation........................................................................ 1-16

1.6.7 Wild River Designation............................................................................................. 1-16

1.6.8 Hot Springs ................................................................................................................ 1-17

1.6.9 Cultural and Historic Resources ............................................................................. 1-17

1.6.10 Dog Sledding Competition........................................................................................ 1-17

1.7 Planning Requirements ................................................................................................ 1-17

1.8 The Planning Process.................................................................................................... 1-18

1.8.1 Design the Process .................................................................................................... 1-19

1.8.2 Initiate Public Involvement and Scoping................................................................ 1-19

1.8.3 Determine Significant Issues................................................................................... 1-21

1.8.4 Develop and Analyze Alternatives........................................................................... 1-21
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viii Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan

1.8.5 Prepare Draft Plan and Environmental Assessment ........................................... 1-21

1.8.6 Prepare and Adopt a Final Plan.............................................................................. 1-21

1.8.7 Implement Plan, Monitor, and Evaluate................................................................ 1-22

1.8.8 Review and Revise the Plan..................................................................................... 1-22

1.9 Planning Issues ............................................................................................................. 1-22

1.9.1 How will the refuge protect fish, wildlife, habitat, subsistence, and the wild 

character of the refuge while addressing community needs? .............................. 1-22

1.9.2 How will the refuge address long-term transportation needs in the region and 

access to refuge lands? ............................................................................................. 1-23

1.9.3 How will the refuge maintain fish and wildlife populations?................................ 1-24

1.9.4 How will the refuge maintain hunting opportunities within the refuge boundary?

 1-25

1.9.5 How will the refuge address local public use needs on the refuge, including trails, 

shelter cabins, the Singauruk (Siŋiaġruk) Bridge, and the Hot Springs?.......... 1-26

1.9.6 How will the refuge monitor and address the effects of climate change?........... 1-28

1.9.7 How will the refuge address water quality and quantity issues? ........................ 1-29

1.9.8 How will the refuge enhance its relationship with communities, provide more 

outreach, and better communicate with the public?.............................................. 1-29

1.10 References ..................................................................................................................... 1-30

2. Goals and Objectives, Management Policies and Guidelines, and Alternatives ....... 2-1

2.1 Goals and Objectives....................................................................................................... 2-1

2.1.1 Goal 1: Conserve the diversity of fish and wildlife and their habitats on refuge 

lands, while allowing ecological processes to shape the environment................... 2-2

2.1.2 Goal 2: Maintain the integrity and promote the environmental health of waters 

and aquatic habitats within the refuge. .................................................................... 2-6

2.1.3 Goal 3: Provide and promote opportunities for local residents to engage in 

subsistence activities on the refuge........................................................................... 2-8

2.1.4 Goal 4: Provide quality visitor experiences and enjoyment of resources on refuge 

lands through compatible recreation activities, including hunting, fishing, wildlife 

observation, and photography, in ways that minimize conflicts among visitor 

groups and residents................................................................................................. 2-11

2.1.5 Goal 5: Provide outreach and education to foster a sense of stewardship and 

respect for wildlife, fish, cultural values, and the environment. .......................... 2-12

2.1.6 Goal 6: Preserve and protect the cultural, historical, and archaeological resources 

of the refuge............................................................................................................... 2-15

2.1.7 Goal 7: Develop and maintain credibility and open communication with partners 

in resource management and conservation, including Federal and State agencies, 

educational institutions, local communities, Native corporations, tribal 

governments, neighboring landowners, businesses, and organizations.............. 2-17

2.1.8 Goal 8: Develop a leadership role in addressing climate change in northwest 

Alaska. ........................................................................................................................ 2-19

2.2 Overview of Regional Management Policies .............................................................. 2-21

2.3 Management Categories .............................................................................................. 2-22

2.3.1 Intensive Management............................................................................................. 2-22
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Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan ix

2.3.2 Moderate Management............................................................................................. 2-22

2.3.3 Minimal Management............................................................................................... 2-23

2.3.4 Wilderness Management.......................................................................................... 2-24

2.3.5 Wild River Management........................................................................................... 2-27

2.3.6 Special Management Areas...................................................................................... 2-28

2.3.6.1 Management of Selected Lands.................................................................... 2-28

2.4 Management Policies and Guidelines.......................................................................... 2-28

2.4.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................... 2-28

2.4.2 Management Emergencies....................................................................................... 2-29

2.4.3 Land Exchanges and Acquisitions........................................................................... 2-29

2.4.4 Land Protection Plans .............................................................................................. 2-29

2.4.5 Appropriate Refuge Uses......................................................................................... 2-30

2.4.6 Compatibility Determinations.................................................................................. 2-31

2.4.7 Mitigation ................................................................................................................... 2-32

2.4.8 Coastal Zone Consistency......................................................................................... 2-33

2.4.9 Cooperation and Coordination with Others............................................................ 2-34

2.4.9.1 Federal, State, and Local Governments ...................................................... 2-34

2.4.9.2 Tribes and Native American Organizations ................................................ 2-35

2.4.9.3 Owners of Refuge Inholdings and Adjacent Lands.................................... 2-35

2.4.9.4 Fish and Wildlife Service Jurisdiction over Waters within 

the Selawik Refuge......................................................................................... 2-35

2.4.9.5 Other Constituencies...................................................................................... 2-35

2.4.10 Ecosystem and Landscape Management ............................................................... 2-36

2.4.10.1 Air Quality ....................................................................................................... 2-36

2.4.10.2 Water Resources Management..................................................................... 2-36

2.4.10.3 Visual Resource Management....................................................................... 2-37

2.4.10.4 Cultural, Historical, and Paleontological Resources .................................. 2-37

2.4.11 Fish and Wildlife Habitat Management ................................................................. 2-38

2.4.11.1 Habitat Management..................................................................................... 2-38

2.4.11.2 Fire Management........................................................................................... 2-39

2.4.12 Fish and Wildlife Population Management............................................................ 2-43

2.4.12.1 Wildlife Inventory and Monitoring Plan...................................................... 2-43

2.4.12.2 Scientific Peer Review ................................................................................... 2-43

2.4.12.3 Compliance with the Animal Welfare Act.................................................... 2-44

2.4.12.4 Marking and Banding .................................................................................... 2-44

2.4.12.5 Threatened or Endangered Species............................................................. 2-44

2.4.12.6 Reintroductions .............................................................................................. 2-44

2.4.12.7 Fish and Wildlife Control .............................................................................. 2-45

2.4.12.8 Management of Non-native, Invasive, and Pest Species ........................... 2-45

2.4.12.9 Disease Prevention and Control ................................................................... 2-46

2.4.12.10 Fishery Restoration ....................................................................................... 2-46

2.4.12.11 Fishery Enhancement.................................................................................... 2-47
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x Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan

2.4.13 Subsistence Management......................................................................................... 2-47

2.4.13.1 Access for Subsistence Purposes ................................................................. 2-49

2.4.13.2 Section 810 Evaluations................................................................................. 2-49

2.4.14 Public Access and Transportation Management................................................... 2-49

2.4.14.1 Snowmobiles, Motorboats, Airplanes, and Non-motorized 

Surface Transportation ................................................................................. 2-49

2.4.14.2 Off-Road Vehicles........................................................................................... 2-49

2.4.14.3 Helicopters...................................................................................................... 2-49

2.4.14.4 Access to Inholdings ...................................................................................... 2-50

2.4.14.5 Temporary Access.......................................................................................... 2-50

2.4.14.6 Subsistence Access......................................................................................... 2-50

2.4.14.7 Transportation and Utility Systems ............................................................ 2-50

2.4.14.8 State Transportation Planning..................................................................... 2-51

2.4.14.9 RS 2477 Rights-of-Way ................................................................................. 2-51

2.4.14.10 17(b) Easements............................................................................................. 2-52

2.4.14.11 Navigation Aids and other Facilities ........................................................... 2-52

2.4.15 Recreation and Other Public Use............................................................................ 2-52

2.4.16 Public Use Facilities ................................................................................................. 2-53

2.4.16.1 Cabins.............................................................................................................. 2-53

2.4.16.2 Temporary Facilities for the Taking of Fish and Wildlife......................... 2-54

2.4.17 Outreach and Education........................................................................................... 2-54

2.4.18 Commercial Use Management................................................................................ 2-55

2.4.18.1 Commercial Recreation Services ................................................................. 2-55

2.4.18.2 Mineral Exploration and Development....................................................... 2-55

2.4.18.3 Commercial Fishing and Related Facilities................................................ 2-56

2.4.18.4 Commercial Harvest of Timber and Firewood........................................... 2-57

2.4.18.5 Commercial Gathering of Other Resources................................................ 2-57

2.4.18.6 Commercial Filming and Recording Activities........................................... 2-57

2.4.18.7 Other Commercial Uses ................................................................................ 2-57

2.4.19 Environmental Contaminants Identification and Cleanup .................................. 2-57

2.4.20 Management of Designated Wilderness................................................................. 2-58

2.4.21 Administration of the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge ..................................... 2-59

2.4.21.1 Administrative Sites and Visitor Facilities ................................................. 2-59

2.4.21.2 Refuge Management Plans ........................................................................... 2-61

2.4.22 Alaska Mineral Resource Assessment Program ................................................... 2-61

2.5 Management Categories Table.................................................................................... 2-61

2.5.1 Introduction............................................................................................................... 2-61

2.5.1.1 Definitions for Management Categories Table .......................................... 2-61

2.6 Management Alternatives............................................................................................ 2-81

2.7 Development of Alternatives ....................................................................................... 2-81

2.8 Alternatives Considered But Eliminated ................................................................... 2-81

2.8.1 Recommending Rivers for the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.......... 2-81
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Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xi

2.8.2 Recommending Lands for Designation as Wilderness ......................................... 2-81

2.8.3 Other Alternatives Considered................................................................................ 2-82

2.9 Management Actions Common to All Alternatives.................................................... 2-82

2.9.1 Environmental Conservation and Monitoring ....................................................... 2-82

2.9.1.1 Standard Practice ........................................................................................... 2-82

2.9.1.2 Fisheries .......................................................................................................... 2-82

2.9.1.3 Migratory Birds.............................................................................................. 2-82

2.9.1.4 Western Arctic Caribou Herd....................................................................... 2-83

2.9.1.5 Invasive Species.............................................................................................. 2-83

2.9.1.6 Environmental Contaminants....................................................................... 2-83

2.9.2 Public Use and Access .............................................................................................. 2-83

2.9.2.1 Standard Practice ........................................................................................... 2-83

2.9.2.2 Subsistence...................................................................................................... 2-84

2.9.2.3 Recreation and Outreach............................................................................... 2-84

2.10 Alternative A – Current Management ........................................................................ 2-84

2.10.1 General Management Direction............................................................................... 2-84

2.10.2 Management Categories........................................................................................... 2-84

2.10.3 Specific Management Direction By Major Issue ................................................... 2-85

2.10.3.1 Commercial Use of Refuge Lands................................................................ 2-85

2.10.3.2 Off-Refuge Administrative Facility.............................................................. 2-85

2.10.3.3 Motorized Access to Refuge Lands .............................................................. 2-85

2.10.3.4 Local Public Use Needs................................................................................. 2-86

2.10.3.5 Competitive Events of Community and Historic Importance................... 2-86

2.10.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements ................................................................... 2-86

2.11 Alternative B (Preferred) ............................................................................................. 2-89

2.11.1 General Management Direction............................................................................... 2-89

2.11.2 Management Categories........................................................................................... 2-89

2.11.3 Specific Management Direction By Major Issue ................................................... 2-89

2.11.3.1 Commercial Use of Refuge Lands................................................................ 2-89

2.11.3.2 Off-Refuge Administrative Facility.............................................................. 2-90

2.11.3.3 Motorized Access to Refuge Lands .............................................................. 2-90

2.11.3.4 Local Public Use Needs................................................................................. 2-90

2.11.3.5 Competitive Events of Community and Historic Importance................... 2-93

2.11.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements ................................................................... 2-93

2.12 Alternative C.................................................................................................................. 2-93

2.12.1 General Management Direction............................................................................... 2-93

2.12.2 Management Categories........................................................................................... 2-93

2.12.3 Specific Management Direction by Major Issue.................................................... 2-94

2.12.3.1 Commercial Use of Refuge Lands................................................................ 2-94

2.12.3.2 Off-Refuge Administrative Facility.............................................................. 2-94

2.12.3.3 Motorized Access to Refuge Lands .............................................................. 2-94

2.12.3.4 Local Public Use Needs................................................................................. 2-94
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xii Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan

2.12.3.5 Competitive Events of Community and Historic Importance .................. 2-94

2.12.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements................................................................... 2-97

2.13 Summary Comparison of Alternatives........................................................................ 2-97

2.14 Comparison of Old and New Management Direction ............................................. 2-100

2.15 Evaluation of Alternatives.......................................................................................... 2-103

2.15.1 Evaluation Criteria ................................................................................................. 2-103

2.15.2 Response to Refuge Purposes ............................................................................... 2-103

2.15.3 Response to National Wildlife Refuge System Mission ..................................... 2-104

2.15.4 Response to Refuge Goals...................................................................................... 2-104

2.15.5 Response to Issues.................................................................................................. 2-104

2.15.5.1 Commercial Guiding and Air Transporters for Big Game ...................... 2-104

2.15.5.2 Off-Refuge Administrative Facility ........................................................... 2-105

2.15.5.3 Motorized Access to Refuge Lands............................................................ 2-105

2.15.5.4 Local Public Use Needs .............................................................................. 2-105

2.15.5.5 Community Competitive Events ................................................................ 2-106

2.15.5.6 Monitoring and Addressing Climate Change ........................................... 2-106

2.15.6 Response to Biological Integrity and Ecosystem Management........................ 2-106

2.16 References ................................................................................................................... 2-106

3. Affected Environment ......................................................................................................... 3-1

3.1 Geographic Setting ........................................................................................................ 3-1

3.1.1 Land Status................................................................................................................. 3-1

3.1.1.1 Village Native Corporation Land................................................................... 3-2

3.1.1.2 Regional Native Corporation Lands.............................................................. 3-2

3.1.1.3 Native Allotments ............................................................................................ 3-3

3.1.1.4 Other Private Lands ........................................................................................ 3-3

3.1.1.5 Town Sites......................................................................................................... 3-3

3.1.1.6 State of Alaska.................................................................................................. 3-3

3.1.1.7 Submerged Lands............................................................................................ 3-3

3.2 Physical Environment .................................................................................................... 3-4

3.2.1 Climate ......................................................................................................................... 3-4

3.2.2 Climate Change........................................................................................................... 3-5

3.2.3 Landforms.................................................................................................................... 3-6

3.2.4 Geology......................................................................................................................... 3-8

3.2.4.1 Surface Geology................................................................................................ 3-8

3.2.4.2 Bedrock Geology............................................................................................... 3-8

3.2.5 Soils and Permafrost................................................................................................. 3-11

3.2.6 Energy Resources..................................................................................................... 3-15

3.2.7 Mineral Occurrences................................................................................................. 3-15

3.2.8 Water Resources ...................................................................................................... 3-16

3.2.9 Wildland Fire............................................................................................................. 3-17

3.2.9.1 Fire Occurrence and Frequency .................................................................. 3-18
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Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xiii

3.2.9.2 Fire Size........................................................................................................... 3-18

3.2.9.3 Fire Season...................................................................................................... 3-19

3.2.9.4 Impacted Communities.................................................................................. 3-19

3.3 Biological Environment ................................................................................................ 3-19

3.3.1 Vegetation .................................................................................................................. 3-19

3.3.1.1 Habitats ........................................................................................................... 3-19

3.3.2 Fish and Wildlife....................................................................................................... 3-36

3.3.2.1 Fish .................................................................................................................. 3-36

3.3.2.2 Amphibians ..................................................................................................... 3-43

3.3.2.3 Birds................................................................................................................. 3-43

3.3.2.4 Terrestrial Mammals ...................................................................................... 3-48

3.3.2.5 Marine Mammals............................................................................................ 3-53

3.3.2.6 Sensitive Wildlife ............................................................................................ 3-53

3.3.3 Concerns Regarding Fish, Wildlife, and Habitats................................................. 3-54

3.3.3.1 Energy and Mineral Development............................................................... 3-54

3.3.3.2 Transportation ................................................................................................ 3-54

3.3.3.3 Land Development Adjacent to the Refuge ................................................ 3-54

3.3.3.4 Climate Change .............................................................................................. 3-54

3.3.3.5 Invasive Species.............................................................................................. 3-55

3.4 Human Environment..................................................................................................... 3-56

3.4.1 Area History .............................................................................................................. 3-56

3.4.1.1 Prehistory........................................................................................................ 3-56

3.4.1.2 Ethnography ................................................................................................... 3-58

3.4.1.3 History............................................................................................................. 3-59

3.4.1.4 Historic and Cultural Sites............................................................................ 3-60

3.4.1.5 Population Trends and Composition ............................................................ 3-64

3.4.1.6 Area Communities.......................................................................................... 3-65

3.4.1.7 Regional Access .............................................................................................. 3-71

3.4.1.8 Regional Economy.......................................................................................... 3-72

3.4.1.9 Subsistence Way of Life ................................................................................ 3-74

3.4.2 Public Use................................................................................................................... 3-81

3.4.2.1 Overview.......................................................................................................... 3-81

3.4.2.2 Local Public Uses ........................................................................................... 3-82

3.4.2.3 Recreational Hunting..................................................................................... 3-83

3.4.2.4 Recreational Fishing...................................................................................... 3-86

3.4.2.5 Outreach and Environmental Education Programs................................... 3-86

3.5 Resource Values and Special Designations ................................................................ 3-87

3.5.1 Wilderness.................................................................................................................. 3-87

3.5.1.1 Undeveloped.................................................................................................... 3-87

3.5.1.2 Untrammeled.................................................................................................. 3-87

3.5.1.3 Natural............................................................................................................. 3-87

3.5.1.4 Opportunities for Solitude ............................................................................. 3-87
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xiv Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan

3.5.1.5 Opportunities for Unconfined Recreation................................................... 3-88

3.5.1.6 Other Special Features .................................................................................. 3-88

3.5.2 Wilderness Review Areas ........................................................................................ 3-88

3.5.2.1 Selawik Wilderness Area .............................................................................. 3-88

3.5.2.2 Headwaters of the Selawik River................................................................. 3-89

3.5.2.3 Selawik River Delta and Lowlands .............................................................. 3-89

3.5.2.4 Selawik Hills ................................................................................................... 3-90

3.5.3 River Values .............................................................................................................. 3-90

3.5.3.1 Recreation....................................................................................................... 3-90

3.5.3.2 Geology............................................................................................................ 3-90

3.5.3.3 Fish.................................................................................................................. 3-90

3.5.3.4 Wildlife ............................................................................................................ 3-90

3.5.3.5 Cultural ........................................................................................................... 3-93

3.5.4 River Descriptions .................................................................................................... 3-93

3.5.4.1 Upper Selawik River ..................................................................................... 3-93

3.5.4.2 Lower Selawik River ..................................................................................... 3-94

3.5.4.3 Kugarak River................................................................................................ 3-95

3.5.4.4 Tagagawik River ............................................................................................ 3-95

3.5.4.5 Fish River ....................................................................................................... 3-96

3.5.4.6 Kobuk River Delta ......................................................................................... 3-96

3.6 Refuge Infrastructure and Administration................................................................ 3-96

3.6.1 Administrative Facilities .......................................................................................... 3-96

3.6.2 Staffing....................................................................................................................... 3-97

3.7 References ..................................................................................................................... 3-98

4. Environmental Consequences ............................................................................................. 4-1

4.1 Impacts to the Biophysical Environment..................................................................... 4-2

4.1.1 Issue: Commercial Guides and Transporters .......................................................... 4-2

4.1.1.1 Permafrost and Soils........................................................................................ 4-3

4.1.1.2 Air Quality......................................................................................................... 4-3

4.1.1.3 Water Quality and Aquatic Habitats.............................................................. 4-3

4.1.1.4 Vegetation and Terrestrial Habitats.............................................................. 4-4

4.1.1.5 Wildland Fire.................................................................................................... 4-4

4.1.1.6 Fish Populations............................................................................................... 4-4

4.1.1.7 Bird Populations............................................................................................... 4-4

4.1.1.8 Mammal Populations ....................................................................................... 4-5

4.1.1.9 Cumulative Impacts......................................................................................... 4-5

4.1.2 Issue: Local Public Use Needs .................................................................................. 4-5

4.1.2.1 Winter Trail Marking ...................................................................................... 4-5

4.1.2.2 Shelter Cabins .................................................................................................. 4-6

4.1.2.3 Singauruk (Siŋiaġruk) Bridge ........................................................................ 4-7

4.1.2.4 Hot Springs....................................................................................................... 4-8
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Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xv

4.1.2.5 Cumulative Impacts ......................................................................................... 4-9

4.1.3 Issue: Motorized Access to Refuge Lands................................................................ 4-9

4.1.3.1 All-terrain Vehicles .......................................................................................... 4-9

4.1.3.2 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-11

4.1.4 Issue: Off-Refuge Administrative Facility ............................................................. 4-11

4.1.4.1 Shared Service/Community Building(s)....................................................... 4-11

4.1.4.2 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-11

4.1.5 Issue: Competitive Events of Community and Historic Importance .................. 4-11

4.1.5.1 Dog Sled Racing ............................................................................................. 4-11

4.1.5.2 Snowmachine Racing ..................................................................................... 4-12

4.1.5.3 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-13

4.2 Impacts to the Human Environment........................................................................... 4-14

4.2.1 Issue: Commercial Guides and Transporters......................................................... 4-14

4.2.1.1 Local Economy and Commercial Uses......................................................... 4-14

4.2.1.2 Cultural Resources......................................................................................... 4-14

4.2.1.3 Subsistence...................................................................................................... 4-14

4.2.1.4 Visitor Services and Recreation Opportunities........................................... 4-14

4.2.1.5 Public Health and Safety ............................................................................... 4-14

4.2.1.6 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-15

4.2.2 Issue: Local Public Use Needs................................................................................. 4-15

4.2.2.1 Winter Trail Marking..................................................................................... 4-15

4.2.2.2 Shelter Cabins................................................................................................. 4-16

4.2.2.3 Singauruk (Siŋiaġruk) Bridge....................................................................... 4-16

4.2.2.4 Hot Springs ..................................................................................................... 4-17

4.2.2.5 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-18

4.2.3 Issue: Motorized Access to Refuge Lands.............................................................. 4-18

4.2.3.1 All-terrain Vehicles ........................................................................................ 4-18

4.2.3.2 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-19

4.2.4 Issue: Off-refuge Administrative Facility............................................................... 4-19

4.2.4.1 Shared Service/Community Building(s)....................................................... 4-19

4.2.4.2 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-19

4.2.5 Issue: Competitive Events of Community and Historic Importance .................. 4-20

4.2.5.1 Dog Sled Racing ............................................................................................. 4-20

4.2.5.2 Snowmachine Racing ..................................................................................... 4-20

4.2.5.3 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-21

4.3 Environmental Justice .................................................................................................. 4-21

4.4 Section 810 Evaluation.................................................................................................. 4-21

4.5 References...................................................................................................................... 4-22

5. Implementation and Monitoring......................................................................................... 5-1

5.1 Introduction...................................................................................................................... 5-1

5.2 Current Step-down Plans ............................................................................................... 5-1
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xvi Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan

5.2.1 Fishery Management Plan......................................................................................... 5-1

5.2.2 Western Arctic Caribou Herd Cooperative Management Plan............................. 5-2

5.2.3 Fire Management Plan............................................................................................... 5-2

5.2.4 Cultural Resources Management Guide .................................................................. 5-2

5.2.5 Water Resources......................................................................................................... 5-3

5.2.6 Inventory and Monitoring Plan................................................................................. 5-3

5.3 Future Step-down Plans................................................................................................. 5-3

5.3.1 Land Protection Plan.................................................................................................. 5-3

5.3.2 Wilderness Stewardship Plan.................................................................................... 5-4

5.4 Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................. 5-4

5.4.1 Introduction................................................................................................................. 5-4

5.4.2 A Focus on Partnering ............................................................................................... 5-5

5.4.3 Partnerships to Address Key Planning Issues........................................................ 5-5

5.4.3.1 Commercial Guides and Transporters........................................................... 5-5

5.4.3.2 Shared Community Building .......................................................................... 5-6

5.4.3.3 Winter Trail Marking ...................................................................................... 5-7

5.4.3.4 Shelter Cabins .................................................................................................. 5-7

5.4.3.5 Singauruk (Siŋiaġruk) Bridge.......................................................................... 5-7

5.4.3.6 Public Use at the Hot Springs ........................................................................ 5-7

5.5 Plan Amendment and Revision...................................................................................... 5-7

5.6 References ....................................................................................................................... 5-8

Appendices A. Legal and Policy Guidance

B. Coordination with the State of Alaska

C. Consultation and Coordination

D. Compatibility Determinations

E. Inventory and Monitoring Plan Executive Summary

F. Easements and Rights-of-way

G. Members of the Planning Team and Preparers of the Plan

H. Species of the Selawik Refuge

I. Abbreviations, Acronyms, and Glossary

J. Definitions for Land Cover Classes (ABR, Inc. 2009)

 

Maps Map 1-1. Land Status and State Game Management Unit 23 in Selawik 

Refuge...................................................................................................................... 1-7 

Map 2-1. Selawik Management Categories ....................................................................... 2-25

Map 2-2. Fire Management Zones for Selawik Refuge from the Alaska 

Interagency Wildland Fire Management Plan................................................ 2-41

Map 2-3. Guide Use Area. ................................................................................................... 2-87

Map 2-4. Alternative B, Area Closed to Commercial Guiding and Air 

Transporters ......................................................................................................... 2-91
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Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xvii

Map 2-5. Alternative C, Areas Opened or Closed to Commercial Guiding and 

Air Transporters by Permit Stipulation............................................................. 2-95

Map 3-1. Surface Geology for the Selawik Refuge.............................................................. 3-9 

Map 3-2. Soil Landscapes..................................................................................................... 3-13

Map 3-3. Location of Oil and Gas Basin for Selawik Refuge............................................ 3-21

Map 3-4. The Watersheds of Selawik Refuge. ................................................................... 3-23

Map 3-5. Vegetative Fuel Types and Wildland Fire History at Selawik 

Refuge. ................................................................................................................... 3-25

Map 3-6. Vegetation Structure. ........................................................................................... 3-31

Map 3-7. Ecotype classes. .................................................................................................... 3-33

Map 3-8. Relative Densities for Waterfowl at Selawik Refuge........................................ 3-45

Map 3-9. Some Traditional Place Names for Selawik Refuge. ........................................ 3-61

Map 3-10. River Values and Selawik Wild River Corridor................................................. 3-91

Map F-1. Land Status and Easements (17b)....................................................................... F-5 

Map F-2. Land Status and Rights-of-way Claimed by the State of Alaska 

Under RS-2477 ....................................................................................................... F-7 

 

Figures Figure 1-1. Location of the Selawik refuge within Alaska...................................................... 1-3

Figure 1-2. Along the Arctic Circle, the season of snow and ice lasts far longer 

than the open water season. Long shadows and pastel colors bathe 

the land on this mid-January afternoon in the village of Selawik.................... 1-13

Figure 1-3. Boreal forest and shrubs line the streams and rivers, while tundra 

dominates in the remainder of the landscape in the middle Selawik 

valley....................................................................................................................... 1-14

Figure 1-4. Blueberries, abundant on the refuge in most years, are one of the 

many resources harvested for subsistence by local residents.......................... 1-16

Figure 1-5. Mushers and bystanders get ready for the start of the Kobuk 440 

dog sled race on the ice in front of Kotzebue. Photo by Tina Moran............... 1-17

Figure 1-6. The Planning Process. .......................................................................................... 1-19

Figure 1-7. Shelter cabins, such as this one at Paniqsiġvik, contribute to public 

safety by providing winter travelers with emergency protection 

from stormy or cold weather................................................................................ 1-27

Figure 1-8. The Singauruk (Siŋiaġruk) Bridge along the Noorvik-Selawik 

winter trail spans a major stream that often has overflow or open 

water....................................................................................................................... 1-28

Figure 2-1 Moose expanded their range into the Selawik valley in the 1950s 

and have since become a subsistence food for local residents. Photo 

by Chris Zimmerman.............................................................................................. 2-4

Figure 2-2. Selawik residents frequently harvest whitefish with nets under the 

ice in early winter. Photo by Susan Georgette..................................................... 2-9

Figure 2-3. Students learn to cut and dry fish during the annual Selawik 

Science-Culture Camp.......................................................................................... 2-14

Figure 2-4. Dried fish is a staple food in the region. This home-made smoker 

helps to keep flies away. ...................................................................................... 2-48

Figure 2-5. The Selawik refuge maintains an administrative cabin for field 

projects near the mouth of the Kugarak River.................................................. 2-60
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xviii Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan

Figure 3-1. The waterways of the refuge are typically ice covered from October 

to May; this photo of the Selawik River was taken during the breakup season in late May 2006. ................................................................................... 3-5

Figure 3-2. The upland area of the Waring Mountains lies along the refuge’s 

northern boundary and separates the Selawik valley from the 

Kobuk valley............................................................................................................ 3-7

Figure 3-3. Much of the refuge is characterized by extensive low-lying areas of 

river channels, sloughs, and thaw lakes, as shown in this photo near 

Kigaq........................................................................................................................ 3-7

Figure 3-4. Thermal springs at the far eastern end of the refuge create an icefree stream and thawed ground year-round...................................................... 3-11

Figure 3-5. Ice wedge polygons formed by ice segregation and the drying and 

shrinking of sediments. ........................................................................................ 3-12

Figure 3-6. Two of the many mouths of the Kobuk River where it empties into 

Hotham Inlet, known locally as Kobuk Lake. .................................................. 3-17

Figure 3-7. Aerial view of 2009 fire in Tagagawik River area. Note the patchy 

mix of burned and unburned areas and the large amount of smoke 

created by even a relatively small lowland fire. ............................................... 3-18

Figure 3-8. This area on the Kobuk River delta exemplifies the aquatic 

environment and the mosaic of vegetation typical of much of the 

refuge. .................................................................................................................... 3-20

Figure 3-9. This mixed spruce forest along the Tagagawik River typifies 

forested areas along the refuge’s rivers............................................................. 3-35

Figure 3-10. Sheefish winter in Hotham Inlet and nearby waters where they are 

harvested by local residents with under-ice gillnets and jigging 

gear......................................................................................................................... 3-38

Figure 3-11. Great horned owls are common in parts of the refuge. Photo by 

Ben Crosby............................................................................................................ 3-47

Figure 3-12. Seasonal range for the Western Arctic Caribou Herd (WACH). The 

WACH migrates through the Selawik refuge each spring and fall. ............... 3-48

Figure 3-13. Animals in the Western Arctic Caribou Herd cross numerous rivers 

in the region during fall migration movements. Photo by Chris 

Zimmerman........................................................................................................... 3-49

Figure 3-14. Spring moose population estimates for surveys conducted within 

the Selawik River drainages, 1997–2007, with 80 percent confidence 

interval (CI)........................................................................................................... 3-50

Figure 3-15. Moose harvested by non-local hunters in the Selawik River 

drainage from 1993–2006 based on State harvest ticket data......................... 3-51

Figure 3-16. Wolves were fairly common on the Selawik refuge in 2010, 

especially in the hills and along the upper river. Photo by Chris 

Zimmerman........................................................................................................... 3-52

Figure 3-17. Niliq, site of a former settlement and trading post along the 

Selawik River. On USGS maps, this site is spelled “Nillik” and 

shown at an incorrect location............................................................................. 3-64

Figure 3-18. The community of Noorvik sits atop a high bluff along the Kobuk 

River near the head of the river delta. ............................................................... 3-66

Figure 3-19. The village of Selawik lines two channels of the Selawik River with 

bridges linking the separate sections. The river and wet tundra 
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Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xix

make building roads in the village difficult, so boardwalks are used 

instead. ................................................................................................................... 3-68

Figure 3-20. The regional center of Kotzebue is situated on a coastal peninsula 

near the mouth of the Noatak River. .................................................................. 3-70

Figure 3-21. In Selawik, boardwalks serve as the community’s roads. Sections of 

the aging boardwalks have been replaced beginning in 2008.......................... 3-71

Figure 3-22. Ice roads, such as this one near Selawik in spring 2009, are built 

from time to time to haul gravel, move heavy equipment, or 

transport goods and fuel....................................................................................... 3-72

Figure 3-23. Commercial fishermen in Kotzebue Sound sell their salmon catch to 

a buyer in the town of Kotzebue......................................................................... 3-73

Figure 3-24. Hunters wait for seals during freeze-up in front of Kotzebue. ........................ 3-80

Figure 3-25. Number of big game transporters and air taxi operators at Selawik 

National Wildlife Refuge, 1993–2009. ................................................................. 3-82

Figure 3-26. Tripods with reflector tape mark this trail across the tundra 

between Selawik and Noorvik. ........................................................................... 3-83

Figure 3-27. Number of transported hunters at Selawik National Wildlife 

Refuge, 1993-2009. ................................................................................................ 3-84

Figure 3-28. Number of moose harvested by transported hunters at Selawik 

National Wildlife Refuge, 1993–2009. ................................................................ 3-85

Figure 3-29. Number of caribou harvested by transported hunters at Selawik 

National Wildlife Refuge, 1993–2009. ................................................................ 3-85

Figure 3-30. Sand dune habitat near the Waring Mountains................................................. 3-89

Figure 3-31. The upper Selawik River flows through an area of mixed forest and 

tundra. Photo by Ben Crosby. ............................................................................. 3-93

Figure 3-32. Upper Selawik River retrogressive thaw slump................................................ 3-94

Figure 3-33. The slow-moving lower Selawik River drains a huge wetlands 

complex that provides ideal habitat for fish, birds, and other 

wildlife. ................................................................................................................... 3-95

Figure 3-34. Entrance to the Selawik refuge office in Kotzebue........................................... 3-97

 

Tables Table 2-1. Activities, public uses, commercial activities or uses, and facilities 

by management category. .................................................................................... 2-63

Table 2-2. Comparison of alternatives by major planning issue and budget and 

staff requirements................................................................................................. 2-97

Table 2-3. Differences between current management direction from the 1987 

Selawik Plan (Alternative A) and the new management direction 

proposed in this Plan (including Alternatives B and C).................................. 2-101

Table 3-1. Surface land status of the Selawik refuge as of November 11, 2009. ................ 3-2

Table 3-2. Temperature and precipitation data from Selawik River Remote 

Automated Weather Station (RAWS) 1991–2008 (Source: Western 

Regional Climate Center, http://www.raws.dri.edu/cgibin/rawMAIN.pl?akASEL).................................................................................... 3-4

Table 3-3. Landcover classes and subclasses derived from 1981 Landsat 3 

imagery (Kirk and Markon 1989). ....................................................................... 3-27
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xx Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan

Table 3-4. Areal extent of vegetation classes within Selawik National Wildlife 

Refuge (Jorgenson et al. 2009). ........................................................................... 3-28

Table 3-5. Areal extent of ecotype classes within Selawik National Wildlife 

Refuge (Jorgenson et al. 2009). ........................................................................... 3-29

Table 3-6. Comparison of vegetation class totals between two landcover 

mapping efforts on the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge............................... 3-30

Table 3-7. Iñupiaq place names for select features and sites on Selawik 

Refuge.................................................................................................................... 3-63

Table 3-8. Population of communities in the Selawik refuge area, 1960–2008................. 3-65

Table 3-9. Rivers described for Selawik refuge. ................................................................. 3-93

Table F-1. Mileage of state-claimed RS-2477 rights-of-way within Selawik 

National Wildlife Refuge. ......................................................................................F-4

Table H-1. Plant species of the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge ..................................... H-1

Table H-2. Community and vegetation types of the Selawik National Wildlife 

Refuge................................................................................................................... H-15

Table H-3. Definitions of land cover classes in the Selawik refuge (Kirk and 

Markon 1989)........................................................................................................ H-17

Table H-4. Fishes of the Selawik Refuge and surrounding area....................................... H-18

Table H-5. Birds of the Selawik refuge and surrounding area.......................................... H-20

Table H-6. Bird species of potential concern at Selawik refuge and surrounding 

area........................................................................................................................ H-26

Table H-7. Land mammals of the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge ............................... H-28

Table H-8. Marine mammals of the Selawik refuge area, including Kotzebue 

Sound and the Chukchi Sea................................................................................ H-29