Opinion ID: 181487
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Availability of Water

Text: The report identified availability of water as a critical habitat variable. Investigative Report at 8. The report concluded that, [i]n addition to a need for better monitoring and maintenance of existing waterholes, a better distribution of permanent water supplies is needed to provide water in all areas of suitable sheep habitat. Id. at 9. The report identified strategies such as identifying existing permanent water sources that could be improved by hauling water during low-water seasons, identifying existing water sources that could be redeveloped to improve capacity and efficiency, and identifying locations for new water sources. Id. at 10. With respect to new water sources, the report stated that [n]ew water developments can likely be constructed outside of wilderness, although construction in wilderness should remain an option if a wilderness location best meets wildlife management needs. Id. at 9. Plans for ... new water developments will require an environmental assessment and minimum requirement analysis/minimum tool analysis. Id. at 10.