The TLMP provides the following direction for the issue of endemic mammals (p.4-119-120):

"1. Conduct surveys for endemic mammals prior to any project that proposes to substantially alter vegetative cover". This statement is further clarified with

"a. Survey islands smaller than 50,000 acres in total size (e.g. Hecata Island and smaller) that have productive old-growth forest suitable for timber harvest. Conduct surveys on larger islands if there is a high likelihood that endemic taxa are present that may be affected by the proposed project."

The Regional Ecology Program Leader who was responsible for drafting these standards and guidelines in TLMP advises that the intent of this direction is focused on islands (clarified by a.) that occur on the Tongass, and particularly smaller islands where potential risks to endemic taxa from management activities may be greater (See TLMP 1997, Mammalian Biodiversity and Island Management). That this direction is focused on islands is also found in:

2. "Assess the impacts of the proposed project relative to the distinctiveness of the taxa, population status, degree of isolation, island size (emphasis added).... "

The following protocols provide additional clarification on survey direction for endemic mammals:

a. Use the Research Natural Area (RNA) sampling protocol developed and used by PNW in FY97 for islands less than 50,000 acres where management activity is planned (e.g. FY98 example - Deer Island). Apply the protocol in March-May to maximize efficiency in capturing flying squirrels. Modify the protocol (trap type, bait, and placement) to increase likelihood of sampling flying squirrels. Repeat the protocol in mid-summer for other small mammals to account for possible variability in seasonal occurrence and trapping susceptibility. Use one transect within each season if any previous mammal sampling efforts have been made on the island. Use two transects each season if there have been no previous sampling efforts. Seek to maximize habitat heterogeneity in the placement of transects to sample a greater diversity of habitats. Characterize and document the habitat types at each sampling station.

b. For islands greater than 50,000 acres, assess old-growth habitat strategy implementation and likelihood of suspected endemic mammal occurrence. If presence or distinctiveness of the taxa is uncertain and potential management risks posed by the project are high or unknown then apply the RNA sampling protocol as outlined in a. above (FY98 example - Nemo Road Timber Sale - Wrangell Island red-backed vole). If endemic taxa are already know to be present and the conservation strategy has a high likelihood of sustaining the taxa, no surveys are required (e.g. FY98 Control Lake Timber Sale - Prince of Wales Flying Squirrel). Document this analysis in the project planning record.

c. Prepare a report of the sampling results for the project administrative record and provide a copy to the Small Mammal Study PNW Principal Investigator and the Tongass Study Coordinator.