1.01. Project Authorization

Photo 1-1. McNary Lock and Dam, located on the Columbia River between Oregon and Washington, was built in 1953
to provide navigation, power development, and irrigation. Recreation was added later as an authorized purpose

Plate 1-1. Location Map

1.02. Project Purposes

Photo 1-2. The McNary powerhouse contains 14 generating units,
with a total capacity of 980,000 kilowatts.

1.03. Previous Reports, Design Analyses, and Design Memoranda

1.04. Applicable Public Laws

• Public Law 78-534, Section 4.

  The Flood Control Act of 1944, as amended by Section 4 of the Flood Control Act of 1946, by Section 207 of the Flood Control Act of 1962, and by the Land and Water Conservation fund Act of 1965, provides the authority for the Corps of Engineers to develop and maintain park and recreation facilities at water resource projects, thereby providing the authority for such development at the McNary Lock and Dam project.

• Public Law 79-14, Sections 1 and 2.

  The River and Harbor Act, 2 March 1945, passed by the 79th Congress, specifies coordination with state agencies in planning flood control and watershed development. Section 2 of this law authorizes the construction of McNary Lock and Dam.

• Public Law 85-624.

  The Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, 12 August 1958, amends the Act of 10 March 1934; and provides for more effective integration of fish and wildlife programs with Federal water resource development.

• Public Law 86-645, Section 108.

  The River and Harbor Act, 14 July 1960, provides for the sale of project lands to states, their political subdivisions, and port authorities for public port or industrial development. (Refer also to PL 85-130, 71 Stat. 346, 14 August 1957.)

• Public Law 89-72.

  The Federal Water Project Recreation Act, passed by the 89th Congress on 9 July 1965, provides for the recognition of recreation as a valid project purpose and the inclusion of recreation benefits in economic analysis, provided that non-Federal agencies pay one-half of separable costs and all of the operation, maintenance, and replacement costs.

• Executive Order 11990, Protection of Wetlands.

  Each agency will provide leadership, and shall take action to minimize the destruction, loss, or degradation of wetlands, and to preserve and enhance the natural and beneficial values of wetlands.

• Executive Order 11593, Protection and Enhancement of Cultural Environment.

  The Federal Government will initiate measures necessary to direct their policies, plans, and programs in such a way that Federally-owned sites, structures, and objects of historical, architectural, or archaeological significance are preserved, restored, and maintained for the inspiration and benefit of the people.

• Executive Order 11644, Use of Off-Road Vehicles on the Public Lands.

  It is the purpose of this order to establish policies and provide for procedures that will ensure that the use of off-road vehicles on public lands will be controlled and directed so as to protect the resources of those lands, to promote the safety of all users of those lands, and to minimize conflicts among the various uses of those lands.

1.05. Administrative Policies

• Engineer Regulation (ER) 1165-2-400, Recreation Planning, Development, and Management Polices, 3 August 1970.

  This ER defines the objectives and basic policies governing planning, development, and management of outdoor recreation resources and the enhancement of fish and wildlife at Corps of Engineers water resource projects.

• Engineer Regulation 1130-2-400, Project Operation: Recreation Management, 28 May 1971, Changes 1 through 5.

  This ER provides policy and procedural guidance to personnel concerned with administration and management of civil works water resource projects.

• Engineer Regulation 1120-2-400, Recreation Resources Planning, 1 November 1971, Changes 1 through 3.

  This regulation prescribes policies, guidelines, and procedures for ensuring that protection and enhancement of recreation resources are given equal treatment with other objectives in the planning and development of water resource projects under the jurisdiction of the Corps of Engineers. This regulation also redefines the scope and nature of recreation resources in general design memoranda and master plans.

• Engineer Regulation 1110-2-400, Design of Recreation Sites, Areas and Facilities, 7 July 1972, Change 1.

  This regulation provides information and criteria related to the planning and design of recreation facilities at water resource projects.

• Engineer Regulation 1105-2-167, Resource Use: Establishment of Objectives, 12 April 1978.

• Engineer Regulation 202-2-2, Policy and Procedures for Implementing NEPA, 25 August 1980.

• Engineer Regulation 1130-2-405, Use of Off-Road Vehicles on Civil Works Projects, 17 January 1974.

• Engineer Pamphlet (EP) 1165-2-501, Environmental Policies, Objectives, and Guidelines for the civil Works Program of the Corps of Engineers, 29 October 1976.

1.06. Purpose of Master Plan

1.07. Scope of Master Plan Updating

• Project operational needs.

• Resources offered by the project, including port terminal and industrial resources, park and recreational resources, wildlife resources, scenic values, and other resources.

• Relationships of alternative non-project resources.

• The social needs of the market area--including port and industrial needs, park and recreational needs, wildlife needs, and sundry community needs.

• The magnitude, distribution, characteristics, and recreation habits and desires of the surrounding population.

• The arrangement and quality of existing roads, trails, and pathways.

• The location of railroads, powerlines, and other utilities.

• The relationship of the shoreline areas to navigable water of the pool.

• The use, development, and land use requirements, as experienced since completion of the project.

1.08. Formulation of Resource Use Objectives

a. The Study Area.

The development and management of the resources of the McNary project for the most effective and lasting public benefit must consider not only the McNary resources, but also those offered as alternative attractions by the adjacent projects - Ice Harbor and the upper portion of John Day. This consideration is essential because of the interrelationship of the project, and because the population centers served by McNary are also served alternatively by the other two reservoirs. Therefore, all three projects have been examined from a regional perspective. Regional values and needs have been treated first, followed in later chapters by a discussion of project resources and project-oriented needs. The study area for the McNary project, as extended to recognize the influence of Ice Harbor and upper John Day, is established as the surrounding five-county area: Benton, Franklin, and Walla Walla Counties in Washington; and Umatilla and Morrow Counties in Oregon. This is the region served - the zone of influence (see plate 1-2).

 
Plate 1-2. Study Area Map

b. Project Areas.

For each project, the land and water areas under control of the project operating staff constitute the project area. This encompasses all land and water areas within the project boundary - the properties acquired to facilitate construction and operation of the project. Also included would be some adjacent lands that offer resources relating closely to and not easily separated from resources on project-owned lands (i.e., scenic and other visual values or characteristics).

c. Purpose of Resource Use Objectives.

The Resource Use Objectives will serve to guide the development and management of the project so as to achieve the greatest lasting public benefit from the McNary resources, as well as from those of other related projects (particularly Ice Harbor and upper John Day). The objectives will offer articulated statements of those public needs that will be accorded priority in development and utilization of project resources; how long-range goals will influence and possibly restrain short-range actions; and how changes in previous plans might be made to accommodate better and more beneficial utilization of the project resources.

d. Criteria for Resource Use Objectives.

The overriding criterion governing formulation of Resource Use Objectives is the achievement of maximum lasting public benefit within the constraints imposed by authorizing legislation and applicable regulations: Federal, state, and local. Current land use allocations, particularly those where substantial developments have been completed, will be considered as fairly firm and continuing commitments.

e. The Objective Setting Process.

The formulation of Resource Use Objectives has employed a series of steps designed to evaluate the major factors influencing and constraining resource use. as noted, both regional and local project conditions must be considered in deriving the various options for resource use. The evaluation of the many factors required an interdisciplinary team effort, as well as input and involvement of other Federal, state, and local agencies and interested individuals. Public workshops were held in Kennewick, Washington, and Hermiston, Oregon, in May 1980 to encourage public participation in the study, as well as to obtain the public's views as to desired uses of the region's resources. This total effort is a somewhat complex process. The diagrammatic outlined in figure 1-1 will assist the reader in following and understanding the various steps used in the formulation of objectives.

 
Figure 1-1. Resource Use Objectives Setting Process

2.01. Study Parameters

a. The Geographic Region.

The McNary project study area lies in approximately the center of that part of the Columbia River Basin known as the Inland Empire: northeast Oregon and southeast Washington. To the east and southeast lie the Blue Mountains and the Wallowa Mountains; to the west is the Cascade Range; to the north is the Columbia Basin, with the Palouse Hills to the northeast. Drainage from the near slopes of these mountains and the Big Bend plains flows ultimately to the Columbia River. The mountains are steep, occasionally rugged, and generally heavily timbered. Prominent mountain peaks such as Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams, and Mt. Hood are visible from points within the Inland Empire; and rise to elevations well above the timberline (elevation 14,410, 12,307, and 11,235, respectively). The lowest point in the study area would be the shoreline of Lake Umatilla, at minimum pool elevation 257. The plateau and plains areas and the lower hills (i.e., Horse Heaven Hills, Rattlesnake Hills, and Saddle Mountain) are devoid of timber. Extensive areas generally abutting the river and its tributaries are devoted to dryland and irrigated farming.

The major population centers of the region are Walla Walla, Tri-Cities (Richland-Pasco-Kennewick), Hermiston, and Pendleton. These and other communities and their current populations are listed in table 2-1. Industries in the Inland Empire include agriculture (both irrigated and dryland), food processing, beef processing, paper products, and the Hanford works (nuclear research and associated scientific services).

 

Table 2-1 Population of Nearby Counties
Cities and Counties in Washington	1980 Population		Cities and Counties in Washington	1980 Population
Benton County	109,444		Umatilla County	58,861
Benton City	1,980		Adams	240
Kennewick	34,397		Athena	965
Prosser	3,896		Milton-Freewater	5,086
Richland	33,578		Echo	624
West Richland	2,938		Hermiston	9,408
			Stanfield	1,568
Franklin County	25,540		Umatilla	3,199
Connell	1,981		Helix	155
Kahlotus	203		Pendleton	14,521
Mesa	278		Pilot Rock	1,630
Pasco	17,944		Weston	719
Walla Walla County	34,674	Morrow County	7,519
College Place	5,771	Boardman	1,261
Prescott	341	Heppner	1,498
Waitsburg	1,035	Ione	345
Walla Walla	25,618	Irrigon	700
		Lexington	307

b. The Zone of Influence and User Market Areas.

The resources offered by the McNary project, and alternatively by Ice Harbor and Upper John Day, will influence the lives of people in the surrounding five-county area described in paragraph 1.08. as the study area or zone of influence. Within this area, it is estimated that 80 percent of project visitors will come from within 50 miles highway distance from the reservoirs. This is set as the primary user market area. The secondary user market area lies beyond the 50-mile zone (see plate 1-2).

c. Regional Access.

The principal highways affording access to the three projects and associated communities within the study area are Interstate 84, the major east-west route that parallels the Columbia River from Portland to Boardman, and continues east through Oregon; U.S. Highway 12, also an east-west route serving Tri-Cities and Walla Walla; and U.S. 395, the north-south route through the study area. Industrial and commercial developments of the study area are served by two main line railroads: the Burlington Northern on the Washington shore, and the Union Pacific on the Oregon shore of the Columbia River. Barge transportation on the Columbia-Snake River navigation system also serves these developments (see plate 1-2).

2.02. Natural Resources of the Region

a. Geology.

Columbia River basalt underlies the study area, and is the most prominent rock formation in the Columbia Basin physiographic province. As part of a series of immense lava flows, mostly of a middle Miocene period, this formation covers over 250,000 square miles. The formation, ranging in total thickness to over 5,000 feet, is made up of numerous individual flows, commonly 25 to 100 feet thick, extending laterally for miles. The rock is typically fine-grained, dark gray, dense basalt in the massive parts of the flows, but may be scoriaceous (cindery lava) in the upper parts. The upper parts of the flow are commonly oxidized and partly weathered and, therefore, shades of red and brown are common. Vertical columnar structures of polygonal cross sections formed as the lava cooled.

Throughout the study area, much of the basalt bedrock is overlain by sedimentary deposits composed of several formations. These deposits, consisting of silt, sand, gravel, and volcanic ash of the Pliocene or Holocene periods, were deposited by the glacier-swollen Columbia River at the close of the Pleistocene epoch.

Recent alluvium, represented by narrow ribbons of river-washed gravels and reworked loess of volcanic ash, border the Columbia River and many of the smaller streams in the study area. This alluvium covers many larger areas along the Columbia River. With a high ratio of silt to gravel, this material displays limited permeability.

The Columbia River basalt (photo 2-1) is generally associated with the later sedimentary deposits. Basalt provides a good building or foundation material, and also serves as a principal groundwater aquifer, due to the water-bearing ability of the upper flows. Much of the area is overlain in varying degrees by a veneer of loess. These Pleistocene to Holocene silts were derived in part by wind action.

 
Photo 2-1. Columbia River basalts are the most prominent rock formation in the Columbia Basin, and underlie the project.

b. Climate.

The region surrounding the three projects has a semi-arid climate. Precipitation is generally light throughout the year, averaging about an inch per month during the period from November through February; and decreasing to a monthly average of .13 inch in July. Total annual amounts range from less than 4 inches to about 13 inches, with the average being about 7 inches. Most of this precipitation occurs as light, intermittent rain and cold drizzle during the winter and spring. During these seasons, extended periods of cloudiness and some fog are common. Snowfall is usually confined to the period from November through February, and comprises about 25 percent of the annual precipitation. Major snowstorms are infrequent, with accumulations ranging to 12 inches. Snow does not usually linger for more than a few days, although this does vary from winter to winter.

Summers are generally very dry with abundant sunshine. Temperatures above 90 degrees are common. Maximums occasionally exceed 100 degrees, with the highest of record being 115 degrees in Kennewick. Temperatures on the river are markedly lower than those over land areas. Nights are ordinarily cool throughout the year, and low humidity during the summer months minimizes the physical discomfort resulting from high daytime temperatures.

Winter temperatures are relatively mild for the latitude, though subfreezing temperatures are common during the winter months. In a 35-year period, minimum temperatures ranged from minus 9 to minus 23 degrees Fahrenheit.

The winds along the Columbia River area are heavily influenced by the walls of the gorge. Figure 2-1 is an annual summary of the frequency distribution of wind speeds and directions observed at several stations in the area. (The length of each bar represents the frequency of occurrence of the particular wind direction, and the width of the bar indicates frequency of occurrence of a wind speed for that wind direction.) Note that wind directions observed at the stations are predominantly parallel to the river systems. The upriver air flow is strongest during the summer months. Cold outflow from the interior flows down the river occasionally in the winter months. Calm conditions are observed in protected valley floors off the Columbia River. Dust storms of severe proportions have occurred on the open plateau; and gusty, shifting winds occasionally arise, particularly within the confines of the gorge. The prevailing winds are from the southwest during all months except September, November, and December, when they are from the west.

 
Figure 2-1. Annual Wind Roses
Percent Frequencies of Wind Direction and Speed

c. Hydrology.

The streamflow pattern of the mid-Columbia and lower snake River basins is governed more by seasonal temperature patterns within and beyond the study area than by precipitation patterns. Heavier precipitation occurs through the winter months, much of which is stored as snow in the mountainous areas. Melting of the snow as temperatures warm up creates high streamflows, usually in late spring and early summer. Because of system storage, these floodflows pass through the mainstream reservoirs with minimal effect upon recreation and other activities. Large devastating floods are generally controlled. Fluctuations in pool levels do occur in John Day Reservoir when flood storage space is utilized, as well as from the backwater effects in the upstream reaches of each of the three reservoirs. Pool fluctuations also result from operational patterns dictated by powerplant operations. These fluctuations occur on hourly, daily, and weekly patterns and; in some ways, have greater impact upon recreation and other activities than do the seasonal variations in streamflow. Winter floods, particularly those involving iceflows occasionally cause problems to developed shoreline facilities. Streamflow conditions for fish and wildlife, navigation, irrigation, and recreation have been altered by the projects. Use of the reservoirs for recreation, especially water sports and boating, has developed dramatically since impoundment.

d. Wildlife.

The study area is located within a shrub-steppe vegetation area, which is essentially coextensive with the distribution of big sagebrush in the Pacific Northwest. Not only are typical Upper Sonoran denizens present, but species associated with marshes, brushy riparian habitats, rocky and sandy shorelines, open waters, and croplands are present as well. Extensive use of the area by migrating waterfowl further increases the importance of this section of the Columbia River as a valuable wildlife habitat.

The Columbia River provides an extremely important habitat for the waterfowl of the Pacific Flyway (see photo 2-2). The three projects, with prominent water area, interspersed islands, and extensive agricultural lands, furnish resting areas, nesting sties, shelter, and feeding grounds attractive to large numbers of ducks and geese. Canada geese and mallards are found in greatest concentration, but many other species of waterfowl utilize the area, especially in the winter. Many other migratory shore and water birds use the area for breeding. Limited numbers of ring-billed gulls, California gulls, forster's terns, and Caspian terns nest on some of the islands.

 
Photo 2-2. The Columbia River provides important habitat for waterfowl and upland game birds

Upland game birds (primarily California quail, ring-necked pheasant, and some Hungarian partridge) are found within brushland habitats of the rivers and streams, as well as in the vicinity of irrigated farmlands. Talus slopes and vegetated canyons provide habitat for a fairly large chukar population. The mourning dove is a common resident of the study area.

The steep basalt cliffs of the projects afford nesting habitat for many of the river's raptors. These include the red-tailed hawk, golden eagle, great horned owl, and others. Marsh hawks, burrowing owls, and short-eared owls nest in the open rangeland and marshy areas.

The primary big game animal utilizing the project is the mule deer. Deer populations are not high, and are limited to the brushy canyons and adjacent ridges. Deer are also commonly seen at the several different river delta areas. The white-tailed deer, which locally inhabits the slopes of the Snake River Canyon to the east, is rarely present within McNary or John Day project lands.

Fur animals within the area of the projects include beaver, muskrat, marmots, mink, raccoon, striped skunk, and weasel. These mammals mainly utilize the shoreline and brushy areas of the lakes. Badgers occupy the open rangeland. Otters have been occasionally observed in the project areas.

The study area reach of the rivers that once supported a substantial fish habitat is still of major importance as a fishery resource, both economically and recreationally. Significant numbers and kinds of anadromous fish are found in the project areas. However, in recent years, the construction of the large hydroelectric dams, including John Day, McNary, and Ice Harbor, have inundated most local anadromous fish spawning areas. In an effort to allow fish to reach upstream spawning areas, fish passage facilities have been developed at the dams. There has also been a major effort undertaken in other areas (i.e., fish transportation and screens to enhance the fishery resource). The area is a habitat for many resident gamefish, including rainbow trout, walleye, yellow perch, bass, bluegill, and crappie. Over 1,000,000 rainbow trout, Chinook salmon, and steelhead trout are released in the mid-Columbia area annually by state and Federal fish hatcheries.

No Federally-classified threatened or endangered species are resident within the area. However, some threatened species occur in the study area during spring and fall migrational periods.

2.03. Regional History

2.04. Economic and Social Factors

a. Morrow and Umatilla Counties.

"Agriculture has been, is, and probably will remain the mainstay of the Morrow County...and Umatilla County economics. Annual estimates released by the Oregon Extension Service, indicate that Morrow County consistently ranks among the ten top Oregon counties in annual agricultural production and ranked fourth for the three-year period from 1975-77, as irrigated cropland came into production."¹

" Umatilla County consistently ranks among the top three."² Annual production in gross sales of farm products has been nearly $70 million for Morrow County, and about $100 million for Umatilla County.

Many of the other economic sectors of the two counties originally developed in response to the needs of agriculture: transportation, financial institutions, government agencies, food processing industries, agri-business, services, and retail trade outlets. In both counties wheat has, until recently, been the primary farm crop. With the development of large-scale irrigation (see photo 2-3), other crops have come into heavy production. These include potatoes, sweet corn, and alfalfa. In 1973, Morrow county's receipts from potato production surpassed those from grain.

 
Photo 2-3. Because of the development of large-scale irrigation that was made possible
by the construction of McNary Dam, many new crops have come into heavy production.

"Agriculture, with its closely-related food industries, becomes the largest employer of (Umatilla) county residents. Government, especially state and local government, ranks a close second to agriculture. Trade, services, and manufacturing (partially included in agriculture) are the other major employers of (Umatilla) county residents."³ The situation in Morrow County is quite similar, again with major growth in the food processing industries.

Important in the long-range economic outlook for Morrow and Umatilla Counties are proposals for major construction projects. "First, Portland General Electric has proposed that two energy generation plants (in addition to the coal-fired plant recently completed) be constructed on the Carty site south of Boardman...Pacific Gas Transmission Company has announced plans to build an additional gas transmission line in its existing right-of-way in 1979-1980...The Snipe Creek irrigation project and perhaps the proposed Willow Creek Dam will provide other opportunities for construction employment in or near the county."⁴ (Since this statement was made, the status of some of the facilities has changed.)

"Proposed developments in Umatilla County include construction of a second powerhouse at McNary Dam, expansion of facilities at the Port of Umatilla and construction of Interstate 82-N. There is still a possibility of Alumax (an aluminum production plant) locating on Port of Umatilla property..."⁵

b. Walla Walla County.

In Walla Walla County, as well as in neighboring counties to the east and north, the climate and topography are "ideally suited for dryland wheat farming and the raising of other field crops. Whitman County is Washington's foremost wheat producing area and one of the leading wheat growing areas in the country. Concurrently, the raising of various fresh market and process-bound vegetables, particularly in Walla Walla County, has aided in diversifying the agricultural base." The region has enjoyed "outstanding records in farm output."⁶

Manufacturing activities include food processing and allied cold storage activities; the production of irrigation systems, farm machinery, and specialty equipment; pulp and paper production at Boise Cascade's multimillion-dollar plant near Wallula; and meatpacking at Iowa Beef's plant (also near Wallula). Several food processing plants have closed down in recent years.

"The government sector represents the single largest nonmanufacturing employer due principally to the location at Walla Walla of the state penitentiary, the regional headquarters of the Corps of Engineers and a Veteran's Administration Hospital."⁷

c. Benton and Franklin Counties.

Prior to World War II, the economy of the Benton-Franklin County area was tied closely to agriculture. "With the introduction of the Hanford Project in 1943, the area witnessed the sudden emergency of a permanent and solid industrial base. Gradually, this base was broadened. The Project was transformed from a group of plutonium-producing reactors to a nationally-reputed complex for the scientific research and development of nuclear technology, and the production of atomic-related materials."⁸

"Today, the machinery, fabricated metals, printing and publishing industries, provide visible evidence of the region's changed economic structure. In addition, the viable agriculture sector furnishes a direct stimulus to the economy's industrial growth via the continuous development of numerous food processing plants and chemical fertilizer production facilities. With the exception of the industrial-commercial-research-oriented Tri-Cities most of the two-county area is dominated by agriculture."⁹

The importance of the Hanford-related activities is evidenced by such observations as the following, made by the Washington State Department of Commerce and Economic Development:

"Employment associated with the Project continues to out-distance all other areas of economic activity.

Since the mid-Sixties, activities at the Hanford Project have been deliberately broadened in scope and diffused among a greater number of contractors. As a catalyst for this carefully planned diversification and segmentation program an essential precondition for granting a license to a potential Project contractor was the firm's pledge to invest sums unrelated to atomic research and production. A hotel-convention-resort center at Richland and a $5 million meat packing plant near Pasco (in Walla Walla County) are recent benefits already resulting from the contract stipulation.

Future economic diversification in the region can be expected to stem directly from similar projects and efforts connected with the re-oriented development of Hanford. The latter has brought substantial change to the Project with recent placement of the $100 million Fast Flux Test Facility and $6 million High Temperature Sodium Test Facility. These installations will provide operational research for the entire liquid metal cooled fast breeder reactor program. In addition, the likely siting at Hanford of Washington Public Power Supply System's $400 million power-generating nuclear plant will insure the area's leadership in exploring and developing peaceful uses of atomic energy.

Together, an abundance of land for agriculture-industrial-commercial uses; a unique location enabling the region to serve as a strategic transportation center; a limitless supply of water for power and irrigation purposes; plus the accumulation of a highly educated and technically trained labor force have propagated a region of unique potential. These factors, coupled with conducive livability features--moderate climate, advanced educational facilities, and countless recreational opportunities--guarantee a future of disciplined development for the Benton-Franklin two-county area¹⁰"

Large-scale irrigation developments in the Horse Heaven Hills area are an important part of this growth pattern.

d. Land Ownership.

Most of the lands in the study are privately owned. In the public sector, principal landholders are the Bureau of Land Management, the States of Oregon and Washington, and the Corps of Engineers. On land matters relating to the reservoir projects, the most significant condition is the fact that the Corps of Engineers owns and, thereby controls, essentially 100 percent of the shorelands. The State of Oregon owns about 50,000 acres in western Morrow County, with several miles of shoreline frontage. The Bureau of Land Management owns an irregular checkerboard pattern of sections near the reservoir in northern Morrow and Umatilla Counties. The State of Washington holdings consist of scattered sections (predominantly a Sections 16-36 pattern of school lands). The Bureau of Reclamation also has some landholding in the McNary region.

Some of these public lands that are quite close to the reservoirs can offer development and use potentials alternative to the reservoir project lands. This has already happened in the cases of Oregon's Space Age Park area, Port of Morrow industrial lands near Boardman, and Port of Umatilla lands near McNary Dam.

Small reaches of shorelands not controlled by the Corps of Engineers are found on McNary Reservoir at Cold Springs, as well as on the left bank upstream from about River Mile 337. In these areas, the Government interest is limited to flowage easements.

For more complete data on land ownership within the study area, both tabulated and graphic, refer to Columbia--North Pacific Region, Comprehensive Framework Study of Water and Related Lands, Appendix IV, Land and Mineral Resources, Volumes 1 and 2, Subregions 2, 3, 6, and 7, June 1970.

e. Cover and Land Use.

Most of the lands within the study area (and essentially all lands within 30 or 40 miles of the reservoirs) are either cropland or rangeland. The rangelands are nearly all grass and meadowland, with only small areas of brushland. Much of the rangeland has recently been converted to irrigated cropland by utilizing large-size, self-propelled sprinklers and water pumped from the reservoirs. Some forest lands occur in the high mountainous terrain around the outside edges of the study area. For descriptive and graphic data on cover and land use, refer to Columbia--North Pacific Region, Comprehensive Framework Study of Water and Related Lands, Appendix IV, Land and Mineral Resources, Volumes 1 and 2, Subregions 2, 3, 6, and 7, June 1970.

f. Population and Demographic Trends.

Preliminary 1980 census data show a population of 256,740. This is an increase of 38.9 percent over the 1970 census. Table 2-1 shows the distribution of this population by counties and cities. Reflected in these is the rapid growth of the Tri-Cities area, said to be one of the fastest growing areas in the state.

The ethnic makeup of the population of the three Washington counties is reflected in table SD4-1 of Supporting Data, Item 4. Franklin County shows the highest percentage of minority population, with nearly 15 percent.

In terms of education, Benton County shows that 15.1 percent of its population has 4 or more years of college, compared to 12.7 percent for the state.

Persons 65 years of age or older account for 7 percent of the total population in Benton County, which is the lowest ratio in the study area. Walla Walla County, with 13.6 percent, has the highest ratio in the study area.

Average annual wages in 1980 were highest in Benton County ($17,480), and were lowest in Franklin County ($13,123).

Tables SD4-1 through SD4-3 in Supporting Data, Item 4, furnish additional information about these characteristics of the population in Washington counties.

2.05. Regional Needs

a. Port and Industrial Needs.

The Columbia/Snake River system is one of the fastest growing navigation systems in the United States (see photo 2-4), according to a recent study funded by 34 Columbia and Snake River ports and the Pacific Northwest Regional Commission. The report further states that oceangoing cargo leaving Portland, the largest export center on the West Coast, has increased 55 percent over the last decade. Cargo moving through Bonneville Lock was nearly three times greater in 1980 than in 1970. The Columbia/Snake River system has tremendous potential for growth, states the report.

 
Photo 2-4. The Columbia/Snake River waterway is a vital transportation link with the Inland Northwest

The McNary and Upper John Day reach of the river system forms a transportation hub serving the east and west by I-84. U.S. 395 connects with I-90 to Spokane; U.S. 395 runs south to Pendleton and beyond; and U.S. Highways 12 and 97 connect the Tri-Cities with I-90, providing access to Seattle. The region is also served by the Burlington Northern and Union Pacific main lines. Both railroads provide access to the interior of the United States.

Accurate figures on cargo volume in the McNary region are not available prior to the opening of the lock. Nearly 490,000 tons passed through McNary lock in 1952, its first full year of operation. The volume first reached 2 million tons in 1970. Just 10 years later, in 1980, the volume surpassed 7.3 million tons. This represents an annual growth rate of 10 percent over the first 28 years of operation, and 13 percent per year over the last 10 years.

Several factors influence the growth potential of ports in the region. First, the surface transportation network will continue to grow, providing for increased cargo distribution opportunities. Another important factor is the forthcoming expansion of irrigated acreage in the Columbia Basin. The volume of containerized cargo has grown rapidly, and is expected to continue.

All of these factors reflect the need for reserving shoreline lands for port and industrial activities to meet the needs of a rapidly-growing water transportation economy.

b. Park and Recreational Needs.

Recreational needs, as expressed, are both general and site specific. They involve managerial and operational problems, as well as developmental needs and adjustments in land allocation patterns.

(1) Bikeways.

The most frequently mentioned and widely expressed need was for the development of a complete system of bikeways in the Tri-City and Umatilla-Boardman areas. In the Tri-Cities, the people desire the development of paved bikeways that link all major park units and extend along both shorelines of the McNary reservoir. They would also like them to cross the reservoir, so that loop systems are formed. The new Richland-Pasco bridge does include full accommodations for bike traffic. A strong plea is being made for the retention of the old Pasco-Kennewick highway bridge as a complementary crossing for non-motorized traffic. Logically, the initial phase would include a tie at Amon Park with the existing Richland bikeway (see photo 2-5); extension downstream connecting with the new Richland-Pasco bridge to the Richland Wye area, through Columbia Park to Kennewick, and to Two Rivers Park; a crossing to Pasco; extension to Sacajawea Park; and upstream on the Pasco side to the new bridge. Ultimate development would include extensions downstream to Hover Park, and up the Snake River arm to Ice Harbor Dam.

 
Photo 2-5. Bike trails are needed to provide recreational opportunities at the park and the reservoir,
as well as to connect these areas with the local street systems—particularly in the Tri-Cities area.

Throughout the system, appropriate connections should be provided to designated bikeways extending into the local street systems. Appropriate signage, rest stops, overlooks, safety barriers, and other necessary appendages should be provided.

Bikeways are also desired in the Boardman area, as well as in the area from Umatilla to Hat Rock.

(2) Other Trails.

In Morrow, Umatilla, Benton, and Franklin Counties need has been expressed for pedestrian paths, hiking trails, and trails for the blind.

In Benton and Franklin Counties, there is extensive need for equestrian trails appropriately separated from the bikeways and foot trails, with connections to local rural roads and public rights-of-way where horses can travel. Equestrian trails are also desired in Umatilla County.

(3) The ORV-ATV Areas.

The ORV-ATV area designated in the Ice Harbor Master Plan is located downstream of Ice Harbor, and will accommodate the activities of ORV's. Benton County has also designated Four Mile Canyon, in South Benton County, as an ORV area. These areas will satisfy the demand that comes from users of such vehicles, as well as from non-users who wish to see these activities limited to designated areas away from public parks or other fragile land areas where onsite ecological values should be preserved.

(4) Umatilla Cultural Center.

The Umatilla comprehensive Plan proposes the development of a cultural/civic center on the area of the old Umatilla townsite. This would recognize the importance of the archaeological discoveries and the historical significance of this reach of the Columbia River. The area has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Development and operation of the cultural/civic center can be undertaken, if appropriate protective and/or salvage measures are included in the program.

(5) Hover Park.

Retention of this park unit for future boating and camping use is strongly supported by the Benton County Park Board.

(6) Parks on Snake River.

The Franklin County Comprehensive Plan stipulates a need for three parks on the Snake River shoreline, primarily on the Ice Harbor reservoir. These include those currently developed.

(7) Pasco Boat Basin.

The Pasco City Recreation Director has expressed the view that the Pasco Boat Basin will eventually need to be enlarged in order to accommodate the needs of the community.

(8) Small Shoreline Parks.

The Franklin County Comprehensive Plan proposes the retention of small shoreline parks, and the development of launching ramps, at Byers Landing and at the upper end of the reservoir near Ringold.

(9) Fishing Ponds.

The recreation directors of both Pasco and Kennewick express the need for conversion of levee holding ponds for use as fishing ponds for juveniles, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

(10) Levee Beautification.

City officials and local citizens have made repeated requests for expedited efforts toward levee beautification. They desire equal levels of development on each side of the river.

(11) The Urban Waterfront.

Tri-Cities is rapidly becoming one large, continuous urban area. Major efforts should be undertaken toward the development of reservoir shoreline areas as attractive urban waterfront; providing easy access to water, good views of the water, enhanced appearance with major regrading and landscape plantings, and the covering of the main ditch.

c. Current and Projected Recreational Needs, As Cited in State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plans.

The recreational and wildlife needs listed in the foregoing paragraphs were derived from inquiries, research and study related directly to the potentials of the three reservoir projects, and to current needs that these potentials might satisfy. These are needs observed and expressed directly by the local people (see photo 2-6). Another, and more comprehensive, view of recreational needs in the region is furnished by the State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plans. Guidelines from these state plans lend firm support to the local expressions of need, and merit citation in this statement of regional recreation needs.

 
Photo 2-6. Boating is quite popular on the Columbia River

(1) Oregon.

The Oregon Plan for Morrow and Umatilla Counties shows the current and future needs in 12 facilities categories related to those recreational resources offered by the projects. These are listed in table 2-2 and table 2-3.

 

Table 2-2¹ Recreational Needs—Morrow County
Facility	Unit	Supply	Gross Need	Net Need			Percent Satisfied 1990
				1975	1980	1990
Campsites	Site	156	373	217	256	341	38
Picnic Tables	Table	74	56	(18)	(14)	(3)	100
Boat Launch Lanes	Lane	2	3	1	1	2	67
Swim Beach	Foot	200²	172	(172)	(172)	(192)	100
Walking and Hiking Trails	Mile	2	22	22	24	27	8
Biking Trails	Mile	0	3	3	4	4	0
Bridle Trails	Mile	0	7	7	7	8	0
ORV	Mile	0	3	3	3	4	0
Neighborhood Parks	Acre	5.0	26.0	21.0	20.5	23.0	20
Community Parks	Acre	32.0	52.0	20.0	19.0	24.0	78
District Parks	Acre	51.0	78.0	27.0	25.5	33.0	67
Regional Parks	Acre	0.0	130.0	130.0	128.0	140.0	0
¹Adapted from Table 30 of Oregon State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, dated 1978. ²Corrected on basis of Plate 6-14 in John Day Master Plan.

 

Table 2-3¹ Recreational Needs—Umatilla County
Facility	Unit	Supply	Gross Need	Net Need			Percent Satisfied 1990
				1975	1980	1990
Campsites	Site	273	524	251	308	424	34
Picnic Tables	Table	662	235	(427)	(410)	(378)	100
Boat Launch Lanes	Lane	14	9	(5)	(4)	(2)	100
Swim Beach	Foot	1,300	1,142	(158)	(96)	37	100
Walking and Hiking Trails	Mile	3	76	73	45	89	6
Biking Trails	Mile	5	14	9	9	11	36
Bridle Trails	Mile	0	34	34	36	40	0
ORV Trails	Mile	0	25	25	26	29	0
Neighborhood Parks	Acre	65.0	240.0	175.0	193.5	245.0	25
Community Parks	acre	92.0	481.0	389.0	425.0	528.0	18
District Parks	Acre	211.0	721.0	510.0	564.5	719.0	27
Regional Parks	Acre	2,721.0	1,203.0	(1,518.0)	(2,704.0)	(2,316.0)	100
¹Adapted from Table 30 of Oregon State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, dated 1978. ²Corrected on basis of Plate 6-14 in John Day Master Plan.

In Morrow County, picnic facilities and swimming beaches are in ample supply. There are no biking, bridle, or ORV trails; and only 8 percent of the needed hiking and walking trails currently exist. Campsites are in short supply, and there is some shortage of boat launching ramps. While the supply of parks in the four different classifications ranges from 0 to 78 percent, the waterside parks at Boardman and Irrigon can readily be considered to satisfy all park needs logically expected in that area of the John Day Project.

In Umatilla County, there are pronounced needs for campsites, various types of trails, and lands for neighborhood, community, and district-type parks. There is an oversupply of picnic tables, launching ramp lanes, and lands for regional-type parks.

(2) Washington.

The Washington Plan for Walla Walla, Benton, and Franklin Counties shows the current supply, current and future needs, and relative indicators for eight different activity categories that can be accommodated by project resources. These are listed in table 2-4 and table 2-5.

 

table 2-4¹ Recreational Needs—Walla Walla County²
Activity	Supply	Needs				Relative Indicators—1980
		1975	1980	1990	2000	Percent Satisfied	Annual PAT/Supply	Pop. Served/ Supply
Beach Swimming	3,000.0	3,121	3,890	6,075	7,117	44	145.0	23
Boating	28.3	39	48	67	76	37	12,208.8	2,411
Walking/Hiking	118.9	618	710	933	1,047	14	17,512.3	573
Camping	343.0	1,212	1,380	1,746	2,030	20	1,235.3	199
Picnicking	1,108.0	—	—	—	—	99	446.0	192
Motorcycle - ORV	197.0	—	—	—	—	100	397.0	2,314
Horseback Riding	214.0	206	252	388	442	46	1,262.6	318
Bicycling	1.3	36	41	57	64	3	583,769.6	52,385
¹Compiled from data set forth in Chapter IV of Washington Statewide Outdoor Recreation Plan, dated 1979. ²Includes also Columbia, Garfield, and Asotin Counties.

 

table 2-5¹ Recreational Needs—Benton and Franklin Counties
Activity	Supply	Needs				Relative Indicators—1980
		1975	1980	1990	2000	Percent Satisfied	Annual PAT/Supply	Pop. Served/ Supply
Beach Swimming	2,850.0	595	1,259	2,000	2,353	69	91.0	44
Boating	32.0	67	86	113	129	27	16,992.2	3,888
Walking/Hiking	22.6	264	302	365	410	7	26,318.6	5,513
Camping	175.0	1,522	1,713	2,087	2,376	9	2,653.7	712
Picnicking	916.0	—	—	—	—	100	315.4	136
Motorcycle - ORV	0.0	140	154	183	201	0	0.0	0
Horseback Riding	11.2	155	182	216	231	6	9,982.1	11,125
Bicycling	5.4	13	16	20	21	25	70,462.9	23,074
¹Compiled from data set forth in Chapter IV of Washington Statewide Outdoor Recreation Plan, dated 1979.

In Benton and Franklin Counties, the most pronounced needs are for various types of trails (hiking, bike, bridle, and ORV), camping units, and boat launching ramps. In most instances, these needs are much greater than the state average.

In Walla Walla County, there are ample picnic facilities, a serious shortage of swimming beaches, some shortage of boat launching ramps, and serious shortages of all kinds of trails.

(3) Unquantified Activity Categories.

There are five other activity categories that can be accommodated on project lands, but which are not easily quantified. These include bank fishing, nature study, food gathering, hunting, and jogging. In the case of the first four of these, it is important to protect and improve the natural resource bases (the biological habitats) in order to accommodate increasing use pressures. Regarding the fifth activity category, studies indicate that jogging has the highest participation rate of all activities studied (30.9 activity occasions per year). The growth in jogging requires that it be recognized in both recreation and non-recreation planning efforts.

d. Wildlife Habitat Needs.

While substantial and important wildlife resources have been made available for public use in the form of extensive and productive habitat areas, there remain areas where improvements can and should be made. These involve changes in land allocations, additional planting of food and cover vegetation, and protection against trespass grazing and other encroachments. The management of wildlife resources on the McNary reservoir is coordinated with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Washington Department of Game, and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Habitat needs mentioned in the public workshop discussions included the protection of wildlife habitats on the Yakima River Delta and Bateman Island.

It is particularly important to stress the need for the protection of critical habitats in this area, because only a limited number of good quality habitats exist here. Backwater areas and shallow wetlands are extremely important to wildlife in this region, and are vulnerable to destruction from urban and/or port development or disturbance from recreationists. Activities such as dredging and gravel removal must be closely evaluated to deter possible negative impacts to fish and wildlife habitats prior to approval. Several species of migratory birds are dependent on Columbia River islands for nesting. Therefore, recreational activities should be discouraged on those islands during the spring months (April through June).

e. Coordinated Planning.

Several people at the public workshops cited or implied the need for more thorough and complete coordination between local planning actions and Corps planning efforts.

2.06. References

Morrow County, 1979

Morrow County Economic Statement, East Central Oregon Association of Counties, February 1979.

Umatilla County, 1979

Umatilla County Economic Statement, East Central Oregon Association of Counties, February 1979.

State of Washington, 1974

Washington State Department of Commerce and Economic Development, 6-74-2M.

State of Washington, 1972

Washington State Department of Commerce and Economic Development, 83-2-72-5M.

3.01. Legislative and Planning Background

"Historical Background. So far as known, the first suggestion for the development of hydroelectric power at Umatilla Rapids was made by Mr. S.V. Winslow, Captain of a Government drill boat operating on the Columbia River, at a meeting of the Open River Association held in Pendleton, Oregon some ten or twelve years ago (about 1912 or 1914) and to him should be given the credit for initiating the idea. Ever since the Winslow address, the development of the Umatilla Rapids project has been urged by a few individuals and by the East Oregonian, Pendleton's daily newspaper. At a mass meeting called at Umatilla, Oregon, in 1920 which was attended by prominent citizens, engineers, and representatives of railroad and power interests of Oregon, Washington, and Idaho, the Umatilla Rapids Association was formed, the territory represented by membership comprising the states of Oregon, Washington, and Idaho.

Since its organization, the Association has actively urged the investigation of this project..." (USBR, 1923).¹

3.02. Project Status

3.03. Location and Accessibility

3.04. Project Structures

The principal features of the main structure consist of a single-lift navigation lock, 86 feet wide by 683 feet long, located on the Washington shore; a gate controlled spillway dam, 1,310 feet long, located in the north river channel; and a 14-unit powerhouse, 1,348 feet long, located in the Oregon or south channel (see photo 3-2). Concrete gravity nonoverflow sections connect the powerhouse and spillway dam and the spillway dam and the navigation lock. Appurtenances include flanking earth embankments 1,560 feet long on the Washington shore and 2,465 feet long on the Oregon shore, upstream and downstream lock approaches, and fish passage facilities. The effective height of the dam is 92 feet and the total length of the complete structure is 7,365 feet. A more detailed description of the dam and its appurtenances is furnished in the McNary Final Environmental Impact Statement, on page 1-2.

 
Photo 3-2. The principal components of McNary Lock and Dam are a single-lift navigation lock, a gate-controlled spillway dam, and a 14-unit powerhouse.

The levee system, with its complete drainage and pumping plant facilities, is designed to protect the heavily developed areas of low-lying land near Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland from the backwater reaches of the pool. There are 17 miles of levee system in the upper reaches of the pool (see photo 3-3. Those sections protecting urban areas generally have a top elevation 8 feet above the calculated backwater stage for the maximum flood of record (1894). Those protecting rural areas have a top elevation 5 feet above this stage.

 
Photo 3-3. A 17-mile levee system protects lands around the Tri-Cities from the backwater effects of the dam

The above and other descriptive facts about the project are shown in tabular form in Supporting Data, Item 5.

3.05. The Reservoir and Its Shoreline

3.06. Reservoir Operation

3.07. References

Corps, 1976

McNary Final Environmental Impact Statement, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, April 1976, pages 1-9 and 1-10.

USBR, 1923

Umatilla Rapids Project, Oregon and Washington, Report on Investigations, Bureau of Reclamation Department of the Interior, E.R. Croker, Associate Engineer, 1923 and 1924.

4.01. Land and Water Areas

a. Land Areas.

(1) Geology and Terrain.

The major geologic features of the broad region were described in section 2. For a more detailed description of geology in the McNary project area, refer to McNary Environmental Impact Statement, pages 2-5 through 2-14.

The terrain and geology of the local pool area have direct influence on development and use. Topographically, the pool lies in two distinctly different types of country. The lower part, between the dam and Wallula Gap, is closely flanked by rugged basalt cliffs and associated talus slopes that rise 500 to 1,000 feet above the pool surface (see photo 4-1). On the north and west are the grazing and dryland wheat farms of Horse Heaven Hills. To the south and east are the grazing and dryland wheat farms of the north Umatilla highlands. Upstream from Wallula Gap, the shoreline area changes abruptly into the broad, flat, terraced land that extends from Wallula to Ringold (see photo 4-2). In the upper center of this terraced area lie the Tri-Cities of Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland; and the communities of Burbank and Finley. The altitudes of these terraced lands range from 340 feet mean sea level at the reservoir level, to about 700 feet mean sea level on the high terraces in the northwestern part of the Hanford reservation. Surface slopes of lands within the project boundary are shown in a generalized manner on plate 4-1, sheets 1 and 2. The accompanying photos show the general character of the terrain associated with the project.

 
Photo 4-1. Rugged basalt cliffs and the associated talus slopes are characteristic of the areas around Wallula Gap

 
Photo 4-2. The Tri-Cities lie in the center of the broad, flat, terraced lands that extend from Wallula to Ringold

 
Plate 4-1, Sheet 1. Slope Map

 
Plate 4-1, Sheet 2. Slope Map

(2) Soils.

Soils found on lands surrounding the McNary Project have been broadly grouped by the Pacific Northwest River Basins Commission into seven different soil associations distributed generally, as shown on plate 4-2, sheets 1 and 2, Soils and Minerals. These soil associations fall into three descriptive categories.

 
Plate 4-2, Sheet 1. Soil and Mineral Map

 
Plate 4-2, Sheet 2. Soil and Mineral Map

• Sagemoor-Toppenish: Generally silty and sandy soils formed in alluvial sediments on bottomlands and low terraces.

• Sagemoor-Hezel, Warden-Ephrata, Quincy-Burbank, Ephrata-Quincy: Generally silty and sandy soils, with coarse fragments formed in glacial materials on terraces, plains, and mountains.

• Shano-Starbuck, Ritzville-Starbuck: Generally silty or sandy soils formed in wind-deposited or wind-worked sediments on hilly uplands.

For a discussion of these soil associations and groupings, refer to Columbia-North Pacific Region Comprehensive Framework Study of Water and Related Lands, Appendix IV, Land and Mineral Resources, Volumes 1 and 2, Subregions 2, 3, 6, and 7, June 1970.

For more detailed classification and description of soils associated with the project, reference is made to the Soil Survey Reports for each of the counties, as prepared by the U.S. Soil Conservation Services. Those for Walla Walla and Benton Counties are especially useful, as they are more detailed and up-to-date than those for Franklin and Umatilla Counties.

The characteristics common to most, if not all, of the soils are their coarse, granular nature--their well-drained to excessively well-drained quality. Some small local areas of poorly drained soils are found in low-lying areas near the reservoir. Extensive areas of untillable soils (steep, rocky, shallow soil areas) occur mostly in the scabland areas in Umatilla County and the Kona-Ritzville association near Wallula Gap in Benton County. The tillable soils require irrigation for crop production or intensive grazing. Soils in recreational areas and wildlife habitat areas are generally satisfactory for necessary tree, shrub, grass, and food crop plantings. Drainage at most, if not all, sites is adequate for tile disposal fields.

(3) Minerals.

Areas of sand, gravel, stone, and other mineral deposits are important resources that must be appropriately managed and protected. Full development of the region surrounding McNary Reservoir will involve consumption of vast amounts of aggregate resources for road and building construction activities. The more significant of the known sand and gravel deposits occurring on project lands are shown on plate 4-2. In addition, refer to Supporting Data, Item 6. Most of the project land between the dam and Wallula Gap is basalt talus slopes beneath vertical rock exposures.

There are no known sources of petroleum or metallic minerals in the project area.

(4) Vegetation.

The region surrounding Lake Wallula is generally devoid of natural timber growth. Some water-tolerant species of native trees and shrubs occur in the riparian situations along the more gently sloping shoreline reaches, as well as in sediment-filled embayments. In developed parks and established residential areas, ornamental trees and shrubs are prominent. There are extensive croplands, both dryland and irrigated, on areas associated with the upstream part of the reservoir. Along the downstream part of the pool, desert-type plants are found on the thin soils of the steep rocky slopes.

Using a more technical approach, a diagrammatic representation of vegetation zones is shown in figure 4-1. "Zone I represents arid land vegetation that normally experiences four to five months of soil drought (spring to fall). Zone II represents tree-shrub communities that grow in permanently moist soil, and Zone III represents vegetation that grows in standing water. As might be expected, the zones are not uniformly distributed along the shoreline" (Corps, 1976). Plate 4-3, sheets 1 and 2 shows the general distribution of vegetative types throughout the project. (Centering the terminology of the legend on plate 4-3: "Herbaceous Plants" includes forbs and grasses; "Shrub-Steppe" includes sagebrush, rabbitbrush, bitterbrush, etc.; and "Broadleaf forests" includes Russian olive, cottonwood, alder, shrub willow, etc. Refer also to Inventory of Riparian Habitats," Volume IIIB.)

 
Figure 4-1. Vegetation Zones

 
Plate 4-3, Sheet 1. Vegetation Map

 
Plate 4-3, Sheet 2. Vegetation Map

From areas sampled along the shoreline, the floral character "appears to be composed of two major types. One abundant type of vegetative physiognomy (gross appearance) is the shrub-steppe, in which scattered shrubs form a layer rising above the dryland grasses. The flora along the riverbank, together with the succession of plants merging with the shrub-steppe type, comprise the other major portion of the existing flora" (Corps, 1976).

More complete listings and descriptions of project vegetation are provided in the McNary Environmental Impact Statement, pages 2-24 and 2-25; and in Inventory of Riparian Habitats and Associated Wildlife Along Columbia and Snake Rivers, Volume IIIB.

(5) Fish.

Lake Wallula supports a wide variety of fish, including both resident and migratory species. There is no quantitative data available regarding populations of resident fish species. Supporting Data, Item 7, indicates the variety of different species occurring in the pool.

The game fish species included in this list support a sports fishery important to residents of the study area. The passage of migratory fish through the reservoir is an important aspect of the fish resources of the Columbia River. Detailed descriptive data about the resident fish species, and the passage of migratory species, are furnished in the McNary Environmental Impact Statement, pages 1-24 and 2-35 through 2-37.

(6) Wildlife Habitat.

The importance and value of wildlife resources in the vicinity of the McNary reservoir were identified prior to the construction of the project. In a General Plan signed by the Secretary of the Army, Secretary of the Interior, and the directors of the fish and wildlife agencies in the States of Oregon and Washington, the following key wildlife management areas were identified for their wildlife management potentials:

• Cold Springs; in Oregon
• the mouth of the Walla Walla River
• along the Columbia River near Burbank, Washington
• around Burbank Slough
• islands and associated shorelands in the Snake River
• lands at the mouth of the Yakima River
• islands in the Columbia River near Richland

As a result of this General Plan, agreements for management were drawn up between the Corps of Engineers and the Washington Department of Game and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Washington Department of Game received management licenses for areas known as the Yellepit Fishery Management Area, the Walla Walla River Wildlife Management Area, the Columbia River Wildlife Management Area, and the Yakima River Wildlife Management Area. Under a Memorandum of Understanding, the Fish and Wildlife Service received management rights to 3,000 acres of land water that are included in the McNary National Wildlife Refuge centering around Burbank Slough, and outlying island areas (including Strawberry Island in the Snake River and the Hanford Islands in the Columbia River near Richland. Though the cold Springs area was designated for licensing to the Oregon Game commission, this license was never issued.

Over the past decade, a number of changes have been made in the disposition and management of McNary wildlife management lands. Lands licensed to the Washington Department of Game have been increased at the Walla Walla River Wildlife Management Area, with the inclusion of 181 acres of land south of Highway 12 and north of the Union Pacific Railroad; the Columbia River Wildlife Management Area has increased by the inclusion of Foundation Island in the license; and the Yakima River Wildlife Management Area license was allowed to expire because of the inclusion of most of this area within the Richland city limits. The McNary National Wildlife Refuge was reduced in size, deleting the area now called Burbank Heights Habitat Management Unit. The license for the State of Washington to manage the Yellepit area was canceled because of its inclusion in the National Natural Landmark, which requires additional management considerations beyond the normal management provided by the State.

(7) Wetlands.

The President's Executive Order on the Protection of Wetlands, dated 24 May 1977, directs that Federal agencies take action to "minimize the destruction, loss or degradation of wetlands and to preserve and enhance the natural and beneficial values of wetlands (located on Federal property)..." There are various wetland areas on the McNary project. These are mostly on lands designated for wildlife refuge and management, but some occur on lands designated for park and recreational use, as well as for industrial use and access. The extent and location of these wetlands have been determined and specifically delineated by a Walla Walla District ad hoc committee appointed for this purpose. Potential wetlands were identified by Corps resource personnel, and those areas were visited by the committee to determine the proper classifications. The classification system suggested by the Fish and Wildlife Service (Cowardin et al., 1979) was used to determine the status of wetlands. The areas so delineated are shown on plate 4-4, sheets 1 and 2. Their future management and use must be in conformance with the President's Executive Order.

 
Plate 4-4, Sheet 1. Wetland Map

 
Plate 4-4, Sheet 2. Wetland Map

b. Water Areas.

Lake Wallula has a water surface of 37,000 acres, a pool length of approximately 62 miles, a maximum width of nearly 2½ miles, and a shoreline length of more than 242 miles. It offers resource values of major importance to the people in the study area. The pool is relatively stable, and offers conditions suitable for various uses, including commercial navigation, many types of water-based recreation activities, and important areas supporting aquatic growth.

(1) Shallows.

Plate 4-5, sheets 1 and 2 shows the location of shallow and moderately shallow water areas. The 0- to 5-foot-deep areas amount to 12.9 percent of the total pool area, while areas 5 to 10 feet deep make up 13.3 percent of the total area. Most of the shallows occur in the mid-reach of the pool (from the mouth of the Walla Walla River to the mouth of the Snake River), and include the subimpoundment areas in and along Burbank Slough. Larger scale maps showing shallow water areas in more detail appear as plates 1 through 6 of the McNary Second Powerhouse Environmental Impact Statement.

 
Plate 4-5, Sheet 1. Shallow Water Map

 
Plate 4-5, Sheet 2. Shallow Water Map

(2) Subimpoundments.

Just prior to impoundment of the reservoir in 1953, several small dikes were constructed to isolate selected shallow arms of the reservoir for the benefit of fish and wildlife populations. The subimpoundment areas are located in the Burbank Peninsula and Burbank Slough areas. They include Curlew Pond, J-line Pond, Quarry Pond, Casey Pond, all of Burbank Slough, and other small ponds. They have proven effective and beneficial, and are currently maintained and managed by wildlife agencies.

(3) Sheltered Areas.

Most of the Lake Wallula water surface area is open and unsheltered from the wind. Storms can develop rather quickly and create conditions hazardous to recreational boating, water-skiing, etc. All of the lower reach of the pool is quite exposed. Sheltered areas here have been developed at Hat Rock-Cold Springs, as well as at the yacht club at Port Kelley. In the reach from Wallula Gap to the mouth of the Snake River, some shelter is offered by the location and configurations of shoreline and island areas. Sheltered waters at Hover Park are currently not useable because of shallow depths over the abandoned and barely submerged S.P.& S. railroad bed. There is sheltered water at Two Rivers Park, but entry access is impaired. There are two sheltered areas at Hood Park. The reach of the pool upstream from the mouth of the Snake River is narrow, and is not so exposed as the downstream areas. Here, there are developed shelter areas at Clover Island, Pasco Boat Basin, and the Richland Marina.

(4) Deep-Water Channel.

Much of the pool area is deep and free from underwater hazards or obstructions. Plate 4-5 shows the areas having less than 10 feet of depth (e.g., the small mid-pool shallows offshore from Port Kelley). Upstream from Wallula Gap and up the Columbia above the mouth of the Snake River, as well as up the Snake River arm, there are some offshore islands and offshore and shoreline shallows that present hazards to the unwary navigator. These are plotted on the official Coast Guard navigation charts. The deepwater channel in the main stem Columbia downstream from Tri-cities bridges is ample and well-marked for commercial navigation. Upstream from the bridges, the channel meanders around the islands and shallow areas. Channel markers extend to River Mile 338. Above this point, barge traffic is possible only at high-river stages. In the mid-reservoir area, there are three railroad bridges with lift spans and four highway bridges, each with navigation clearance.

In the Snake River, the channel winds around the islands up to about River Mile 4, where it becomes a dredged channel that follows closely along the right bank from River Mile 5 to the dam. Recurrent dredging and maintenance are required along the length of this channel.

Most of the surface area of the pool offers safe water depths for small boats.

c. Visual Resources.

(1) Definition.

The visual resource is comprised of the elements of landform, sky, vegetation, water, animal life, and manmade objects and their effects on man.

(2) McNary Project.

The rising of the Columbia River, which formed Lake Wallula, changed the shoreline and character of the river. The construction of railroads and levees eliminated the irregular character of the shoreline. Many gravel bars and riparian vegetation were covered by high waters. However, natural processes have been beneficial to the visual resources. Natural vegetation reestablished along the shoreline of Lake Wallula has increased shoreline irregularity. The positive effect of the McNary Project has been the controlled development at concentrated areas, providing wildlife and recreation lands for public use.

(3) Homogenous Visual Units.

The McNary Project landscape is dominated by water that is the unifying element. The project can be divided into broad homogenous units based on landform, shoreline character, and vegetation. The following description begins at Umatilla Bridge, and proceeds upstream to the Hanford site.

(4) Horse Heaven Unit.

This unit extends from Umatilla Bridge to Wallula Junction. This reach of the project is dominated by landform, steep terraced basalt cliffs, and talus slopes that rise almost vertically on both sides of the lake, except at an area near the dam and at Cold Springs. The brown basalt cliffs rise from 250 to over 700 feet at Wallula Gap National Natural Landmark. The cliffs, talus slopes, and patches of herbaceous plants characterize the landscape of this part of the Columbia Gorge. At this point, the Columbia River narrows and turns westerly in its course to the Pacific Ocean. Within this unit, several interesting table rock formations exist. The most notable are the Two Sisters and Hat and Boat Rocks at Hat Rock State Park. Because of the steep topography, many variations of light and shadow create an ever-changing view. Seasonal colors range from delicate green tints in spring and early summer to gay-browns dominating most of the year, and occasional gray-white mantles offered by winter snowstorms.

The major intrusions in this unit are railroad embankments, signal lines, and pumping plants that block the scenic view to Lake Wallula. Pumping plants are visible from the lake and, in some cases, from U.S. Highways 395 and 730. The pump plants are a negative visual impact due to their color, form, and location.

(5) Wallula Gap National Natural Landmark.

In August 1980, the Wallula Gap area was declared a National Natural Landmark. The 4,400-acre area, including lands on both sides of the Gap, has been approved for inclusion in the National Registry of Natural Landmarks under authority of the Historic Sites Act of 1935 (49 Stat. 666, U.S.C. 461 et seq.). Boundaries are shown on plate 8-1, sheet 2. In addition, refer to Supporting Data, Item 11.

(6) Wallula-Burbank Unit.

The area extending from Wallula Junction upstream to Indian Island is dominated by a highly irregular shoreline. This area contains numerous small islands and impoundments in Burbank Slough, an old river channel. Major intrusions are industrial facilities, which create a negative effect on the landscape due to their proximity to the shoreline, their size (which dominates the landscape), and their color and form (which contrast with the landscape elements).

(7) Tri-Cities Unit.

The Tri-Cities Unit extends from Indian Island upstream to North Richland; and includes the cities of Pasco, Kennewick, and Richland. The mouth of the Yakima River and the parks in this unit offer positive visual landscape along the shoreline, in contrast to the sterile levees. Except for the mouth of the Yakima River and the parks, Lake Wallula is edged with levees in this unit. Most of the shoreline is dominated by the rock-faced back slopes of the levees, which block the view to Lake Wallula. The lack of vegetation creates a sharp harshness. The undeveloped Bateman Island and the islands north of Richland add interest and variety to Lake Wallula.

(8) Snake River Unit.

The Snake River Unit, extending from the confluence to Ice Harbor Dam, is similar to the Transition Unit at the upper end of McNary. This unit is undeveloped, with basalt cliffs on the north bank and gentle slopes on the south. Islands add interest and variety to the area. Broadleaf riparian forest and shrub-steppe vegetation characterize this reach.

(9) Transition Unit.

This unit extends from North Richland to Wooded Island at the upper limit of the McNary Project. This reach is a transition between Lake Wallula and the free-flowing Columbia River. It is characterized by swift currents, and is dominated by islands (part of McNary Wildlife Refuge) of exposed gravel and steppe vegetation. The east side of the river is dominated by basalt cliffs, while the west side has gentle rises. This area is undeveloped, and is basically in a natural state.

(10) Deltas Unit.

The Walla Walla and Yakima River deltas are characterize by diverse vegetation, riparian forest, wetlands meadow, fields, and ponds. This is a strong contrast to the steppe vegetation on the adjacent lands. The irregular river shoreline adds interest and mystery to the area. The highest concentration of wildlife on Lake Wallula (particularly an abundance of songbirds, waterfowl, and upland game birds) is located at these deltas. Wildlife increases the visual quality of these areas.

a. Industrial Development.

Industrial developments on the McNary project (see photo 4-3) have been undertaken both by the local port commissions and by private industry. These facilities occupy project lands, port lands, and associated private lands. some of the port and private lands were once project-owned and subsequently sold to the ports, and some through the ports to private ownership. The developments are of three types, according to sponsorship and function: public port terminals, private barge terminals, and industrial use and access. The locations of the various areas are shown on plate 8-1, sheets 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. The numbers of sites, acres of land area, and miles of shoreline frontage are shown in table 4-1.

 
Photo 4-3. Many industrial developments have sprung up on the McNary Project, including facilities for chemical processing,
grain transfer and storage, fertilizer transfer and storage, and manufacturing.

 
Table 4-1. Port Terminal and Industrial Lands

 
Table 4-2. Recreational Sites - McNary

 
Table 4-3. Wildlife Lands - McNary

(1) Public Port Terminals.

Agency interpretation of the Congressional intent of Section 108 of Public Law 86-645 was that each deed for land sold must stipulate frontage to be reserved for public port terminal use. (This stipulation has been slightly relaxed in order to avoid having more than one port terminal site serving a given access route or commodity production area.)

Nine different public port terminal sites have been designated on the McNary reservoir: one by the Port of Umatilla, three by the Port of Walla Walla, two by the Port of Kennewick, two by the Port of Pasco, and one by the Port of Benton. Of these nine, three are developed and operating (one by the Port of Umatilla and two by the Port of Pasco). The port terminal sites designated by the Port of Pasco include their original terminal, which operated prior to the creation of the reservoir. Facilities were modified to fit on top of the levee.

(2) Industrial Use and Access.

There are 12 developed and operating industrial sites on Lake Wallula. The 12 operating sites include petroleum transfer and storage at 4 sites; grain transfer and storage at 6 sites; fertilizer transfer and storage at 3 sites; chemical processing, storage, and/or transfer at 4 sites; and manufacturing (animal food products, pellet mill, paper mill and box factory, steel fabrication, special metals, etc.) at 4 sites.

b. Recreation Developments.

The park and recreational areas on the McNary reservoir (see photo 4-4) have been developed, and are being operated and maintained, by the Corps of Engineers; as well as by state, county, and city recreational agencies. There are 20 launching ramps, 3 commercial marinas (1 currently without moorage), and 4 yacht clubs.

 
Photo 4-4. Several launching ramps, commercial marinas, and yacht clubs
have been developed in various locations throughout the project area

The extent and location of these areas are shown on plate 8-1, sheets 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. The facilities and activities offered at each of the areas are shown in table 4-2. These areas and facilities afford recreational opportunities for residents of the study area. The needs and desires of the people are, in most instances, being satisfied by the present level of development. Some congestion occurs at more popular areas on peak days. Some types of outdoor recreational activities, not necessarily associated with water, but requiring land space, are not being accommodated. These include activities such as bicycling, horseback riding, ORV activities, etc.

Descriptive and other data about each of the recreational areas are furnished in section 9.

c. Wildlife Developments.

Extensive areas of land and water have important values beneficial to various forms of wildlife. Over 10,000 acres of land and water area have been allocated for intensive wildlife management purposes (see photo 4-5). Other areas aggregating 300 to 500 acres have important wildlife values, but are currently allocated to other uses. The wildlife areas are shown on plate 8-1, sheets 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. Table 4-3 shows a breakdown according to allocation, current use, and character (land or water).

 
Photo 4-5. Over 10,000 acres of McNary project lands have been reserved for intensive wildlife management areas

Habitat developments on management lands include fencing, pond development, food plots, guzzler installations, raptor perches, nest box installation, pasture development, etc. Several others are proposed.

4.03. References

Corps, 1976

McNary Final Environmental Impact Statement, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Walla Walla District, April 1976, page 2-15.

Cowardin, 1979

Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United States, Cowardin et al.

5.01. Scope of Analysis

5.02 Natural Resources - Beneficial and Adverse Impacts

a. Land.

(1) Geology and Terrain Impacts.

There are no apparent aspects of subsurface geology that are significantly adverse to either industrial use, recreational use, or the preservation of wildlife. The scenery of Wallula Gap and the Columbia River Gorge results from geologic happenings in the past. The terrain has profound influences on any type of use. The steep rocky slopes rising abruptly from the reservoir shorelines in the reach from Sand Station to Wallula Gap preclude, with only very minor exceptions, the development of any port terminal or industrial facilities or park and recreational facilities. Utilization for wildlife management is largely limited to protective regulations and/or such minor habitat improvement measures as can be accomplished with limited irrigation or soil cultivation. There are short segments of steep shoreline terrain at the upper reaches of the pool on both Snake and Columbia River arms.

Flat terrain can, and does, create some developmental and operational problems. Offshore shallows present access problems for some port terminal and industrial sites (primarily Boise cascade, Finley, Ady, Burbank, and Pasco Depot). These problems can be corrected by dredging and filling but this, in turn, raises ecological problems concerning the protection of aquatic life.

(2) Climate Impacts.

The climate has little or no direct effect on the operational activities of port terminals and/or industrial establishments. Indirect effects result from the seasonal aspects of crop production.

Conversely, climate has profound and far-reaching effects on recreational activities. The length of the recreation season is influenced directly, if not determined solely, by climate. The magnitude of recreational picnicking, camping, and various water-associated activities is influenced strongly by day-to-day changes in the weather. The hot dry summer days send residents to the reservoirs for relief and relaxation.

Climate is, of course, a prime determinant governing the climax vegetative cover in habitat areas, as well as the make-up of wildlife populations. Temperature, precipitation, and wind are controlling factors bearing on the design of habitat improvement measures.

(3) Hydrology Impacts.

Local and mainstream runoff has little effect on port terminal and industrial uses. The design, construction, and operation of all waterside elements must accommodate pool fluctuations (5 feet at McNary Dam and nearly 22 feet under extreme conditions at the Port of Benton Terminal frontage at Columbia River Mile 343).

Pool fluctuations do impact development and use of waterside recreational facilities. The design of docks, boat ramps, swimming areas and beaches must recognize the magnitude, frequency, and timing of changes in pool level. Some low-lying parklands suffer interrupted use because of short-term seasonal flooding. This is most pronounced at Hood Park and Columbia Park.

Alternately flooded and exposed shoreline lands present serious problems in the improvement and management of habitat areas on the reservoir.

(4) Soils - Potentials and Problems.

Soils of the project areas present no major problems for port terminal and industrial use, or for park and recreational use. Soil quality can be a critical factor in regard to the establishment and maintenance of wildlife areas.

The onsite soils found on the 20 public and private terminal and industrial sites are of stable mechanical quality, and present no known construction problems. In some instances, terrain limits the development possibilities unless extensive grading work is undertaken. This can add to construction costs, particularly when bedrock is encountered.

The development outlook at park and recreational sites, insofar as the structural quality of onsite soils is concerned, is quite similar to that at the industrial sites (generally stable soils with no foundation or other soil structure problems). Fertility and organic quality are, of course, important in all areas where plantings are to be developed and maintained. The onsite soils at park sites range from poor to good in productive quality. However, all have been, or can be, brought to satisfactory productivity with appropriate soil additives. The introduction of topsoil from outside sources is generally not required if onsite material is properly cared for.

An important element in the management of habitat areas is the production of food crops for waterfowl and upland birds. Areas currently used in this manner are located in the Walla Walla River arm, in the Burbank National Wildlife Refuge area (along Burbank Slough), on the Burbank peninsula, and on the Yakima River arm. A possible additional area is the shoreline strip north from the Hover industrial lands (the Toothaker site).

(5) Minerals - Extraction Impacts.

There are no known metallic mineral deposits, and no known petroleum deposits, within or near project lands. Therefore, there is no threat of the adverse effects of mining or drilling operations. The extraction of materials from various sand, gravel, and rock deposits on and off project lands will have impacts of varying importance on the protection and utilization of other project resources.

The extent and location of useable sand, gravel, and rock deposits on and near project lands are shown on plate 4-2, sheets 1 and 2, and were discussed in paragraph 4.02. The utilization of these resources can impact other resources in two ways: 1) the materials themselves can be beneficially used in the construction of necessary roads, parking areas, concrete buildings, etc.; and 2) extraction activities can have adverse impacts on ecological resources.

(6) Vegetation - Impacts of Protective Measures.

Protection or other actions relating to natural vegetation on project lands will have essentially no impacts on port terminal and industrial resources. Cultured plant growth is vital to park, recreation, and wildlife areas.

Full development of any port terminal or industrial site usually and understandably results in the total, or near total, destruction of natural vegetation. It is important, however, to note that retention and protection of existing natural vegetation on areas reserved for future development can be an important land management tool. Such protection, combined with appropriate landscape grounds development, can yield major benefits in terms of comfort and satisfaction for employees, owners/operators, and visitors.

Similarly, in park and recreation areas, natural vegetation serves primarily to stabilize and protect the undeveloped areas from wind erosion, traffic, and other damage. At Sacajawea State Park and Two Rivers Park, there are significant areas of natural tree and shrub growth that dominate the local landscape and are a result of the relatively high water tables. Some of this growth falls within the wetlands category.

The developed areas of all park and recreation sites depend completely upon the establishment and culture of domestic plant materials (grass, trees, and shrubs). This, in all cases, requires complete and regular irrigation and conventional groundskeeping. The shade and greenery thus provided complement the water areas of the reservoir, creating the recreational settings attractive to recreational visitors in this semi-desert environment. The domestic plant cover is a vital element in the total recreational picture.

Natural vegetation is the key element in wildlife habitat areas. Whether it is the shrub-steppe vegetation of the steep slopes downstream from Wallula Gap; the heavy willow growth on silt beds at the mouths of the Walla Walla and Yakima Rivers; or the marshy, aquatic growth in Burbank Slough (on the Burbank Peninsula and along the shorelines near the mouth of the Snake River); it is the native and introduced vegetation that creates the habitat for wildlife in the area. This is supplemented by the addition of important food crops in areas suited to cultivation. The culture and protection of this vegetative growth in a manner beneficial to the wildlife populations is the prime objective of management efforts. The nature and quality of vegetative growth on lands not now allocated for wildlife use are important factors to be evaluated during any consideration of reallocation actions.

(7) Fish - Impacts of Protection.

The presence of fish in the reservoir causes no direct adverse impacts on other resources. Measures undertaken for the protection of fish and aquatic life do impose some important restraints on the utilization of other resources.

At operating port terminal and industrial sites, activities must be controlled so as to avoid discharge into the water of any petroleum products, toxic chemicals, or other materials deleterious to fish and wildlife. Such restraints are particularly important at sites critically located in relation to migration routes of anadromous fish. Important resident fish populations are likewise highly sensitive to such water pollution. Regulatory measures need to be carefully enforced. Also, dredging and waterfront construction activities are usually destructive to aquatic life unless timed to occur during seasons that will least affect the resource.

Properly developed and managed park and recreation areas should involve no adverse impacts on fish life. Necessary restraints relate to the non-discharge of sewage or other domestic wastes, and the control of spillage of gas and oil from power boats.

(8) Wildlife Impacts - Impacts of Management.

The management of allocated wildlife habitat units involves no direct and overt impacts on the operation of designated port terminal and industrial sites. The public's use of developed park and recreation areas will only be affected where restrictions occur during the spring nesting season.

The allocation of project lands for wildlife management often involves lands that could also be readily developed and used for industrial purposes. If a condition should develop where there were insufficient lands to accommodate bona fide water-dependent industry, the allocations to wildlife would be a significant impact on the utilization of industrial resources. However, current allocations appear to offer ample space for water-dependent industry. Therefore, there would be no impact from wildlife management.

Seven adequate areas now allocated for park and recreational use, there are no adverse impacts from wildlife management. Beneficial impacts accrue to recreational visitors because of the attractions offered by the presence of the wildlife: opportunities for hunting, fishing, nature study, photography, hiking, etc.

Wetlands - Impacts of the Executive Order.

The President's Executive Order on the Protection of Wetlands will have firm impacts on all types of resource use. Implementation of the order requires first the location and delineation of all wetland areas. Concerning project-owned lands, once officially designated as wetlands, all construction or other actions deleterious to the quality of the wetlands must be disapproved unless certain carefully stipulated conditions can be met. There is little prospect that project-owned wetlands can be used for any purposes involving significant construction work.

b. Water Areas - Potentials and Problems.

The impounded waters of the reservoir comprise the central resource of the McNary Project. The reservoir makes possible the barge transport of commodities and the establishment of associated industries, the extensive growth of water-based recreation activities, and the development of extensive and important wildlife habitat areas. These are resources of major magnitude, highly important to the local region both economically and socially, and fundamental to the progressive pattern of growth within the study area.

The characteristics of the reservoir area, shallows, sheltered areas, deep-water channel, etc., were described in section 4.

For small boat traffic, most of the reservoir is open, safe, slack-water area. Streamflows through the reservoir ranging from average summer lows to 10-year flood peaks create the following velocities: near the dam from 0.2 to 1.0 feet per second; at Columbia River Mile 340 from 2.0 to 6.0 feet per second; and at Snake River Mile 8.7 from 1.0 to 9.0 feet per second. Thus, only in the upper reaches during flood conditions do streamflows create significant reservoir currents.

Open water areas, especially through the Gorge and in the broad open area between the Gap and the mouth of the Snake River, can experience sudden and severe windstorms. These can be serious for the unwary boater.

Fluctuations in pool level have major impacts on protection and utilization of various project resources. Effects on waterfront facilities (docks, ramps, beaches, etc.) were discussed in earlier paragraphs. The effects on riparian and aquatic growth in habitat areas are of major concern. The formulation of plans and schedules for the control of pool fluctuations should recognize the import of these impacts.

c. Visual Resources.

Important criteria in the evaluation of visual resources include the scenic quality of landscape elements (landform, sky, water, vegetation, animal life, and manmade objects), the area viewed, and the number of people viewing the landscape.

The most critical element on McNary are manmade objects. These objects can have a negative, positive, or neutral effect on the scenic quality (see photo 5-1). How manmade objects affect scenic quality is determined primarily by the qualities of the object itself (form, line, color, texture, and scale) and the ability of the landscape to accept the object or its visual absorption capacity. The higher and larger, as well as the greater, the contrasts of form, line, color, and texture of the man-made objects are, compared to the surrounding landscape elements, the greater the impact. Steps need to be taken to improve visual quality by modifying existing negative impacts (e.g., removal, alteration, or screening).

 
Photo 5-1. Manmade objects can have a very negative effect on the visual resources of the project

The following is a discussion of the major visual impacts on or adjacent to McNary lands. Impacts can be either point source or lineal. The Corps has no visual resources control concerning development on private lands. The major point sources of visual intrusions are industrial facilities (plants, grain, and petrochemical storage) and irrigation pump facilities. Levees, utility lines, and railroad embankments are the major lineal impacts.

Due to their size and location, industrial facilities are extremely difficult to blend with the landscape. However, with careful setting and color selection, the facilities can have less of a negative visual impact. Another point of intrusion is offshore irrigation pump facilities, which are not able to be screened due to their location in open water. In addition, their color, shape, and form do not blend with the landscape.

The geologic features of Wallula Gap, the Columbia Gorge, Two Sisters, Hat Rock, Boat Rock, etc., are (in the general and distant view) essentially sturdy and invulnerable to major alteration or destruction. This is not so from the standpoint of close-up views and onsite exploration. Both Hat Rock and Two Sisters have already suffered serious vandalism in the form of graffiti and general defacement. Restoration is difficult, and control is even more difficult. Vandalism and littering are continuing, and are constantly annoying problems.

Outdoor advertising has been, and can be, a serious and adverse intrusion on the quality of the natural scenery - especially along the major highways. This activity is being, and can continue to be, effectively restrained with firm and consistent enforcement of regulations.

The levees are one of the major lineal negative impacts on the project. The riverside of the levees is covered with riprap, which severely restricts vegetation growth. However, if any woody vegetation does establish, it is removed. There is no chance of reducing the height of the levees to provide better views of Lake Wallula or permitting vegetation to grow in the riverside. The landside of some of the levees in Richland has been improved. Additional levees will be visually improved during the McNary second powerhouse project.

The other major lineal negative impacts are railroad embankments and signal lines that parallel U.S. Highways 395 and 730, from Sand Station to Pasco (see photo 5-2). They are persistently obtrusive, blocking the views from the highway to Lake Wallula.

 
Photo 5-2. Railroad embankments and signal transmission lines are obtrusive,
and create a negative impact on visual resources

Major construction activities can have significant impacts on scenic values. Grading for roads, etc., excavations of sand, gravel, and rock all create unsightly scars on the landscape. This happened on a vast scale through the Columbia Gorge, with the relocation of two railroads and a state highway, required by the impoundment of the McNary reservoir. These scars healed rather rapidly, due to the careful shaping and dressing of cut and fill slopes, rapid weathering of exposed materials to colors blending well with surrounding slopes and rock exposures, and gradual reestablishment of native plant growth.

5.03. Man-Made Resources—Analysis and Evaluation

Each of the five port districts having jurisdiction on shoreline lands of the reservoir has acquired McNary project lands allocated for port terminal and industrial use. Three of the five have also acquired adjacent non-project lands for similar purposes. Each of the port districts has developed, and is operating, waterfront facilities; and each has land available for expansion. Two of the districts express a current need for additional land area. Rail access is currently available at all sites except the Port of Benton's Richland site. Actions involving port lands are described in section 9.

Associated with some of the industrial processes are occasional air and water pollution problems. These are controlled to a degree in compliance with the standards and requirements of the regulatory agencies. Nonetheless, some impacts to the environment remain. Of these, the odors released from the Boise Cascade paper mill are probably the most noticeable to the public.

Project lands allocated to intensive and low-density recreational use afford space and development potential adequate to accommodate current and near-future needs. Projected population increases support the premise that, in the long-term outlook, most of the parks will be fully utilized; and some will experience a degree of overuse. Table 4-2 lists the acreages, facilities, and activities offered; and indicates the general magnitude of possible expansion at each of the recreation sites. The recreational resources offered at the various sites are described and analyzed under appropriate subheadings in section 9.

6.01. Natural Constraints

6.02. Legislative Limitations

a. Port and Industrial Uses.

The authority granted to the Corps to sell project lands for port and industrial use is contained in Public Law 86-645, Section 108. It limits such sales to lands that are surplus to project operational needs. These needs include, besides all lands relating to project structures, those lands suited to and needed for public recreation and protection and enhancement of wildlife. The use of lands conveyed under this authority is limited to the development of public port or industrial facilities.

b. Recreational Uses.

The basic and original authority for recreational use of Corps project lands is contained in Section 4 of the Flood Control Act of 1944 (Public Law 78-534), as amended by Public Law 79-526 and other later laws. It allows development, maintenance, and operation of recreational facilities on Corps of Engineers reservoirs by the Corps of Engineers, or under long-term lease or license agreements by state and local governmental agencies. The reservoirs must be open to public use generally without charge for the various stated recreational uses. No use can be permitted that is inconsistent with the laws for the protection of fish and game of the state in which the area is situated.

The Federal Water Project Recreation Act of 1965 (Public Law 89-72) established certain funding authorities and procedures for public recreational endeavors, and imposes specific limitations on the extent of Federal involvement. The Corps has elected to administratively apply the principles of this law to reservoir projects existing when the law was passed. Thus, at the McNary, John Day, and Ice Harbor projects, major expansion of existing recreational areas or development of new areas can be undertaken only if state or local agencies agree to participate in development costs on a 50-50 basis, and to operate and maintain the completed facilities on a continuing basis. This becomes a major constraint upon development because of the limited funding resources of state and local agencies. It tends to limit new developments to those situations having a demonstrated, current, local need; and to preclude those developments advocated more on the basis of projected need. It need not preclude those designations and reservations of recreational lands for future development and use. Recreational areas on the McNary reservoir where such constraints appear probable include Cold Springs, Hover Park, Two Rivers Park, Sacajawea State Park, and Columbia Park. The Corps matching funds are also limited.

c. Fish and Wildlife Protection.

The fish and Wildlife Coordination Act of 12 August 1958 amends the Act of 10 March 1934, and provides for the more effective integration of fish and wildlife programs with Federal water resource development. This law requires that any plans for work in the water areas of the reservoir must be thoroughly coordinated with the Federal and state wildlife agencies with a view to making any adjustments that may be necessary for the protection, conservation, and/or improvement of the wildlife resources involved with, or affected by, the proposed work.

d. Executive Order on Wetlands.

The provisions of Executive Order No 11990, on Wetlands, impose very strong constraints on industrial and/or recreational uses that may be desired in areas designated as wetlands.

6.03. Man-Made Physical Constraints

6.04. Constraints Imposed by Previous Allocations, Outgrants, and Developments

6.05. Access to Project Lands

• On McNary, the most serious problem is at Hover Park. Here, a railroad separates shoreline land from the mainland area of the park.

• The existing access road to McNary Beach goes directly through the Port of Umatilla port facilities.

• There is a small narrow strip of emergent land outboard from the Union Pacific main line railroad on the south shore at about River Mile 303. This would offer very limited resource possibilities (recreation boating access or minor port terminal) if a crossing of the railroad were provided.

• The access situation at the Yellepit fishponds is a serious problem for the fishermen. There is no feasible way of providing road access. Boat access is possible only by crossing the Burlington Northern main line railroad. This involves boat tie-ups on the rocky riprapped slopes of the railroad embankment and hazardous climbing over the riprap, the railroad tracks, and right-of-way fences.

• The levees in the urban area of Tri-Cities interrupt physical and visual access to the reservoir. This will be somewhat relieved by planned levee beautification measures. However, most of the barriers to easy access, including the lack of visual relationships, will continue.

• There are access problems relating to the development of the bike routes. River crossings are needed at strategic points to complete the loop systems. Access through, or around, the Port of Pasco is needed to gain a connection to Sacajawea State Park.

• Any significant use of the Locust Grove area and the north shore high-bench area extending upstream from River Mile 6.7 to 8.0 on the Snake River would require extensive road improvement. The bench area was created by spoil disposal from dredging the approach channel to the Ice Harbor lock. It is high above pool level, and borders directly on the navigation channel, with very poor shoreline access.

6.06. Constraints Imposed by Related or Competing Recreation Facilities

Outdoor recreational opportunities available to people of the study region offer attractions and environments of two different types. First, the reservoir projects offer slack-water areas with a variety of water-associated recreational activities in a warm somewhat desert-like area situated very close to, and easily accessible from, the region's population centers. Second, the mountainous areas surrounding the study area offer various types of recreational activities common to mountainous forested settings and at moderate to greater distances from most of the population centers of the study area.

6.07. Influence of Planning and Zoning Actions by Local Agencies

a. Umatilla County.

The latest version of Umatilla County's comprehensive plan is the "West County Framework Plan," adopted 3 May 1978. All of McNary project lands in Umatilla county are treated in this planning unit. The projected land use patterns are in agreement with the land allocations proposed in the mater plan. See The West County Framework Plan: An Amendment to the Comprehensive Plan for Umatilla County, Oregon; drawing, "West Umatilla County Cities and Vicinity."

Similarly, the zoning currently shown on the official Umatilla zoning map is compatible with the McNary Land Use Allocations.

b. City of Umatilla.

Currently, no part of the city of Umatilla fronts directly on the McNary reservoir. However, the city comprehensive plan shows approximately 2 miles of project shorelands as a primary developable area (Port of Umatilla and McNary Beach). This poses no conflict with land use allocations set forth in the master plan.

c. Walla Walla County.

The June 1981 county plan follows very closely to the land classifications proposed in this report. Several differences occur in designations, but philosophies and objectives are compatible with the Corps plan.

d. Franklin County.

The current comprehensive plan for Franklin County was adopted in late 1979. It shows proposed land uses on abutting lands that are entirely consistent with the allocations proposed in the master plan.

The current Franklin County zoning map shows the undeveloped portion of Sacajawea State Park as industrial land and a large area of industrially classified land abutting the right bank of the Snake River arm from Tidewater Terminal to Ice Harbor Dam. This differs from both the comprehensive plan map designation ("Rural") and the Master Plan allocations ("Low Density Recreation" and "Future Recreation"). Franklin County Planning Department indicated that the zoning map would be revised to correct the conflict.

e. City of Pasco.

The classification of project lands along the Pasco city reservoir frontage creates no zoning conflict with existing residential, commercial, or industrial uses within the city.

f. Benton County.

The Benton County comprehensive plan shows that all land from Hover Park to Hedges as industrial land. This includes the Toothaker wildlife area designated on the McNary Land Use Allocation Map as "Intensive Wildlife Management." After discussion and study of this difference in the two plans, the Benton County Planning Department is recommending that the county plan be revised to designate the Toothaker site as a "Public Area." This will resolve the only apparent conflict between the two plans.

g. City of Richland.

The project-owned shorelands fronting on the Richland community throughout the reach from near the Port of Benton lands downstream to the mouth of the Yakima River are all allocated for recreational use. Those on the Yakima River arm are allocated for low-density recreation. These allocations present no conflict with the residential, commercial, or industrial uses within the city.

h. City of Kennewick.

The city of Kennewick has coordinated with the Corps to achieve land classification and zoning patterns that are compatible.

6.08. The Energy Factor

6.09. Projected Recreational Visitation

• In essentially all cases, the existing recreation areas have space for major expansion of facilities within present boundaries.

• Beyond this, there are significant areas allocated for future development (two major areas, Hover and Martindale, and at least three minor areas in the upper reaches of the reservoir).

• Areas where the expansion of facilities is needed are noted in section 9.

• Records of visitation since the completion of the project afford a rather sound basis for onsite observation and determination of developmental needs.

 
Figure 6-1. Lake Wallula Past and Projected Recreation Visitors

7.01. Effectiveness of Past Management Efforts

7.02. The Objectives in Broad Terms

7.03. Project-Wide Objectives

a. Support Utilization of Port Sites - Resource Use Objective.

Accommodate existing port and industrial needs in balance with other project needs and uses. Also, prepare a regional economic study to determine future land needs for port and industrial purposes.

(1) Rationale.

The original extent and location of shorelands allocated for port terminal and industrial use have proven adequate for some port districts. However, because of environmental constraints imposed by legislation of the 1960's and 1970's, some of the sites (especially Port of Walla Walla, Ady, and Burbank) are unusable. Also, the Port of Umatilla, with its limited initial frontage and poorly arranged facilities will, in the near future, suffer some congestion. The Finley site has no access to water. Some relief from these constraints and congested shoreline conditions is imperative for the beneficial utilization of port sites.

(2) Impact.

Some type of rearrangement of land use would make possible the beneficial use of the north Burbank port site. Effective development and long-term protection of important habitat values on lands reacquired from the port would be possible.

(3) Implementation.

Exchanges in land allocation and/or land ownership should be accomplished, as set forth in paragraph 9.02. This concerns the Ady and South Burbank sites in the Walla Walla Port District. A small segment of shoreland fronting the Finley port site has been reclassified. Section 9 also proposes that additional lands be made available to the Port of Umatilla. Program funds for the regional study of projected needs for port and industrial lands are needed.

b. Foster Public Parks - Resource Use Objective.

To continue fostering the development and operation of public park areas, including the expansion of existing areas and the ultimate development of areas currently reserved for future use. Also, implement improved operation and maintenance procedures.

(1) Rationale.

Existing areas are being well utilized. Projected growth of the region indicates the current and future need for additional facilities.

(2) Impact.

Recreational developments add substantially to the quality of life in the region.

(3) Implementation.

Proposed development is described in section 9. Expansion of facilities is currently desirable at McNary Beach, Hat Rock, Sacajawea, Two Rivers, Columbia Park, Chiawana Park, and Groves Park. Limited development is proposed at Hover Park. Three sites (Hover, North Washington Pond, and Pasco Pond) have been classified as Recreation, Intensive-Use Initial. Evaluate current operation and maintenance programs, and determine where improved practices can be adopted.

c. Protect Wildlife Habitat Areas - Resource Use Objective.

Continue the protection and improvement of wildlife habitat areas.

(1) Rationale.

This is a major and very important project resource. Continuing vigilance is needed to prevent its loss. Such effort is directed by the terms of the 1958 Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, and is the aim of the General Plan.

(2) Impact.

The allocation of additional lands for habitat development precludes their use for port terminal and industrial or intensive recreational purposes. Substantial and important public benefits accrue from the protection of the wildlife through both consumptive and nonconsumptive uses.

(3) Implementation.

No lands were withdrawn from the wildlife designation on the previous land use map. However, additional sites classified for wildlife purposes are the north shoreline just upstream from McNary Dam, Burbank Heights, the west shoreline upstream from North Richland, and the Ady site and the South Burbank area (as a result of the proposed land exchange).

d. Visual Resources - Internal Review.

Preserve, conserve, restore, maintain, and enhance the visual resources on all lands under the Corps control; or influence by the elimination of visual intrusion and designing with nature.

(1) Rationale.

This action is required under Corps regulations.

(2) Impact.

This action will provide improved environmental quality for the public. Increased coordination will be necessary with professionals with a design background.

(3) Implementation.

Action must be taken and continued in accordance with the directions of Corps regulations and policy.

e. Visual Resources - Pumping Plants.

Mitigate visual intrusions of existing and proposed pumping plants.

(1) Rationale.

The character of some installations is unattractive, discordant, and disturbing with the shoreline setting. New plants should be properly designed to avoid being in discord with the landscape.

(2) Impact.

Permit renewal will have language added specifying a selected color, and will require using native-type vegetation on the shoreline. The use of bright contrasting colors will be prohibited. Proposed plants will be located to take advantage of natural screening; and will be designed with low profile, smooth simple design, and supplementary vegetation, as needed. The structure will be painted to blend with the landscape.

(3) Implementation.

The requirements will be added to the permit when it is renewed. However, since some permits do not expire for 30 years, the permittees are encouraged to voluntarily comply with the color requirements during maintenance. The Corps can offer assistance in choosing a proper color.

f. Visual Resources - Coordination.

Encourage cooperation and coordination between the Corps of Engineers and private and other public concerns to minimize visual resources impacts both on and off Corps lands.

(1) Rationale.

The public is becoming increasingly sensitive to the visual environment and negative impacts to it. It is in the best interest of both public agencies and private concerns to pride a quality environment for the public.

(2) Impact.

Provide an increased environment quality. Increased communications will be needed between public agencies, private citizens, and private enterprises.

(3) Implementation.

Seek voluntary cooperation between the Corps and public agencies, private citizens, and private enterprises. This can be accomplished by public notice or as proposed projects are provided to the Corps for review.

7.04. Site Specific Objectives

a. Fishing Ponds - Resource Use Objective.

To allocate land and water areas of the North Washington ponding area and the Levee 12-1 ponding area for intensive recreational use as fishing ponds.

(1) Rationale.

The city parks departments of Pasco and Kennewick have requested this use. Benefits would be substantial.

(2) Impact.

No adverse impacts are foreseen.

(3) Implementation.

The adequacy of water quality in the ponds must be ascertained. The cooperation of the State Department of Game must be obtained for stocking of the ponds. The development can logically be included as part of the levee beautification effort proposed under the second powerhouse project. The use of chemicals to control weeds and algae can affect the use of the ponds for fishing by demanding temporary closures when chemicals are used. Alternative chemicals or methods for the control of algal and submerged weeds should be investigated.

b. South Hood Park Area - Resource Use Objective.

Reallocate this area from Intensive Recreational Use to Industrial Use and Access.

(1) Rationale.

This reallocation is necessary to facilitate the exchanges in land allocation and land ownership cited under the project-wide objectives outlined earlier in this section.

(2) Impact.

This will require the relocation of the boat launching activities to the new ramp and parking area in Hood Park proper. The action makes possible the land exchange and the reallocation of the Ady and South Burbank sites to Intensive Wildlife Use, thus making possible a stabilized land-use outlook and the guarantee of long-term protection of the wildlife resources.

(3) Implementation.

The south Hood Park area has been allocated to Industrial Use and Access on plate 8-1, sheet 3.

c. Wallula Gap National Natural Landmark - Resource Use Objective.

Manage project lands within the boundaries of the Wallula Gap National Natural Landmark in a manner that will protect and properly interpret the unique qualities of the area. Supporting Data, Item 11, contains a detailed description of the site.

(1) Rationale.

Of the 4,400 acres included in the landmark designation, 555 acres of land and 1,240 acres of water area lie within the boundaries of the McNary Project. These project lands and the water area comprise the prime landforms creating the "Gap" (see photo 7-1). The area offers important historic and scenic values, as well as its "landmark" qualities.

 
Photo 7-1. The area around the Wallula Gap National Landmark offers important historical and scenic values

(2) Impact.

The protection of the landmark character of the locality will have no adverse impact on the other public uses and values. The landmark designation further strengthens the need for positive and continuing protection against trespass grazing.

(3) Implementation.

Project lands within the landmark designation have been classified as a "Natural Area." The license to the State Game Department that previously included part of these lands was canceled in 1982 because of the Corps' stewardship of landmark values.

d. Other Site-Specific Objectives.

Each port, recreation site, and intensively-managed wildlife area on the reservoir is described, and its value and outlook are discussed in paragraph 9.03. An important part of each of these discussions is the "Site Use Objective." In each instance, this statement, in combination with the accompanying outline of development (existing and proposed), amounts to an expression of the Resource Use Objective for that site.

8.01. Basis of Classification

 
Plate 8-1, Sheet 1. Land Use

 
Plate 8-1, Sheet 2. Land Use

 
Plate 8-1, Sheet 3. Land Use

 
Plate 8-1, Sheet r. Land Use

 
Plate 8-1, Sheet 5. Land Use

8.02. Land Use Allocations

a. Project Operations.

Project operations lands are acquired directly or incidentally for project construction and operation. They are allocated to provide for the safe and efficient operation of the project. Recreation and wildlife uses will be permitted on an interim basis. There are three subcategories in this allocation.

(1) Project Structures.

This category allocates lands for operation and maintenance of project structures, or for the care and management of the project. Low-density recreation or wildlife habitat management, either intensive or moderate, will be permitted when not in conflict with the basic project requirements.

(2) Public Port Terminal.

These are shoreline frontage areas determined to be essential to utilization of the navigational resources of the project. Their prime purpose is to afford space for on-loading, off-loading, handling, storage, and the transfer of waterborne freight. The lands are reserved for public port terminal sites at appropriate intervals along the shoreline, at points strategically located in relation to established communities and existing and potential industrial tributary production areas, and logically related to the road system serving these areas. With appropriate restrictions to satisfy project operational requirements and site limitations, these lands may be made available for conveyance to states, political subdivisions thereof, port districts, or port authorities, under provisions of Section 108 of Public Law 86-645 (74 Stat. 486) for the development of public port facilities. The conveyance deed will provide for the reversion of title to the Federal Government in case the land is used for other than the intended purposes. Low-density recreation use or wildlife habitat management, either intensive or moderate, will be permitted on an interim basis on public port terminal lands, provided such interim use will not adversely affect the basic public port terminal values, and so long as title to such lands remains with the Government. Aside from the initial conveyance to the Port of Walla Walla, all conveyed lands have been sold under the provision described above. (All McNary lands allocated for public port terminal use have now been conveyed.)

(3) Industrial Use and Access.

These are areas of project lands determined by the Corps to not be required or suited for project operation; and not required or not suited for public recreational use or access, public port terminals, natural areas, or fish and wildlife purposes. With appropriate restrictions as required to satisfy project operational requirements and site limitations, they may be made available for conveyance to states, political subdivisions thereof, port districts, or port authorities under provisions of Section 108 of Public Law 86-645 for the development of private terminal facilities or industrial uses requiring close association with the water area of the reservoir. The conveyance deed or lease will provide for reversion of title or cancellation of lease in case the land is used for purposes other than intended. Low-density recreation use, or either moderate or intensive wildlife habitat management, will be permitted on an interim basis on these lands. Agricultural use may be permitted on an interim basis when not in conflict with use for authorized purposes, industrial use, recreation use, or wildlife habitat management. All interim uses will terminate when industrial development becomes imminent after conveyance or outlease. Lands designated as conveyed have been sold to a non-Federal entity by the process described above. Retained lands are presently owned by the Federal Government.

b. Recreation.

These lands have been acquired for project operations (generally within 300 feet of full-pool shoreline) and allocated for use as developed public use areas for recreation activities by the public, including areas for concession and quasi-public development.

(1) Intensive Use - Initial.

These are lands on which facilities now exist or will be developed to an extent adequate to meet the recreation visitor needs. Except for wildlife habitat improvement measures, no joint use of these lands is to be permitted. Intensive-use recreation areas are defined as lands on which facilities have been, or will be, provided to accommodate the recreation needs of visitors in concentrated numbers and such adjacent or associated lands without facilities as required for open space purposes to make a whole recreation unit. These lands, including developed facilities thereon, will be administered by the Corps of Engineers or will be administered under lease agreements by state or local agencies or commercial concessionaires. The private or long-term exclusive group use of these public recreation lands will not be permitted. Licenses, permits, or easements will not be issued on intensive-use recreation lands for such non-compatible manmade intrusions as pumping plants, underground or exposed pipelines or cables, overhead transmission lines, non-project roads, or dredging or filling operations. Exceptions to this restriction may be made where necessary to serve a demonstrated public need in those instances where no reasonable alternative is available. Measures leading to habitat improvement for the benefit of wildlife may be accomplished on operations or recreation lands not actually occupied by formal facility development.

(2) Intensive Use - Future.

These are lands having similar capabilities and development potentials as "Intensive Use - Initial" lands, but are reserved for future development as recreation needs warrant. Wildlife habitat improvement will be permitted as a joint use. Low-density recreation and fish and wildlife management may be permitted on an interim basis, provided such use will not adversely affect the basic recreation values. this interim use must be of such a nature that it can be terminated and the land made available for the purpose for which it is reserved. No agricultural uses are permitted on these lands except on an interim basis for terrain adaptable for the maintenance of open space and/or scenic values.

(3) Low-Density Recreation Use.

These are lands acquired for project operations (normally within 300 feet of full-pool shoreline) and allocated for low-density recreation activities by the public. They are required to provide open space between intensive recreational developments or to provide buffer zones between intensive recreational developments and land, which by virtue of its use, is incompatible with the recreational development and would detract from the quality of the public use. Such incompatible land may be located either on the project or adjacent to the project. The development of low-density lands will be kept to the minimum necessary to allow a dispersed visiting public, with non-motorized access through the area, to participate in nature-related activities. These activities will include, but not be limited to, ecological workshops and forums, hiking, horse and bicycle riding, primitive camping, or similar low-density activities that play a significant role in shaping the public understanding of the environment. Limited facilities (i.e., trails, benches, tables, sun shelters, vault toilets, and waste receptacles will be allowed. Except possibly in urban areas, utilities (electricity, water, and sewer) will not be provided for these facilities in low-density areas. All such facilities will be in harmony with the natural surroundings so as not to be intrusive to the environment. Landscaping or vegetative restoration, when necessary, will utilize plants native or naturalized to the area. Manmade intrusions (pumping plants, pipelines, transmission lines, non-project roads, or dredging or filling operations) will be permitted with appropriate controls as necessary to minimize the adverse visual or other impact on the natural character of the areas. No agricultural uses are permitted on these lands except on an interim basis for terrain adaptable for the maintenance of open space and/or scenic values. Measures leading to habitat improvement for the benefit of wildlife will be a management objective. Hunting and fishing on, and from, these lands will be permitted.

c. Fish and Wildlife.

In accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Fish and Wildlife coordination Act of 1958 (Public Law 85-624), selected areas of project lands may be reserved for the development and management of the fish and wildlife resources of the project.

(1) Intensive Wildlife Management.

These lands have been acquired for project operations (generally within 300 feet of full-pool shoreline), and allocated for the development and management of habitat for fish and wildlife or for the propagation of such species. Intensive wildlife management lands are defined as lands that are set aside for wildlife management because of their inherent value as wildlife habitat, or because of their potential for specific management practices of an intensive nature that have been or will be implemented to improve and/or maintain habitat beneficial to desirable forms of wildlife (both game and nongame). These lands, including developments and improvements thereon, will be administered by the Corps of Engineers or will be administered under cooperative agreements or license agreements by Federal or state fish and wildlife agencies. Private or exclusive group use of these wildlife lands will not be permitted. Licenses, permits, or easements will not be issued on intensive management wildlife lands for such non-compatible manmade intrusions as pumping plants, underground or exposed pipelines or cables, overhead transmission lines, non-project roads, or dredging or filling operations. Exceptions to this restriction may be made where necessary to serve a demonstrated public need in those instances where no reasonable alternative is available. Intensive management lands will be available generally on a continuous basis for wildlife nature areas. These nature areas will be designed and developed specifically for non-consumptive low-density recreation activities such as hiking, primitive camping, nature study, nature photography, bird watching, and other related activities. Consumptive activities (i.e., hunting and fishing) will be allowed only as commensurate with management objectives and state management regulations.

(2) Moderate Wildlife Management.

These lands have been acquired for project operations (generally within 300 feet of full-pool shoreline), and are allocated for the development and management of habitat for fish and wildlife or for the propagation of such species. Moderate wildlife management lands are defined as lands that are valued for fish and wildlife management, but will not sustain intensive management practices. Moderate management practices have been, or will be, implemented to improve and/or maintain habitat beneficial to desirable forms of wildlife - both game and nongame. These lands, including developments and improvements thereon, will be administered by the Corps of Engineers or under a cooperative agreement with a state wildlife agency. The private or exclusive use of these wildlife lands will not be permitted. Licenses, permits, or easements may be issued on a case-by-case basis on moderate management wildlife lands for such manmade intrusions as pumping plants, underground or exposed pipelines or cables, overhead transmission lines, non-project roads, or dredging or filling operations. Such outgrants will include appropriate controls as required to preclude or minimize adverse visual or other impacts on the natural character of the areas. Moderate management lands should be continuously available for low-density recreation activities such as hiking, primitive camping, hunting, fishing, nature study, nature photography, bird watching, and other related activities.

d. Natural Areas.

These lands are acquired for project operations; and are allocated for the preservation of scientific, ecological, botanical, historical, archaeological, or outstanding visual values. Lands managed to protect rare and endangered species of flora and fauna will be allocated as natural areas. Normally, limited or no development is contemplated on land in this allocation. Hiking and bridle paths, properly placed, should have no adverse impacts on threatened or endangered plants and animals. Since public access must be available on Federal lands, these paths would direct foot and horse traffic away from and around these species. Vehicles will not be allowed, nor will benches, shade shelters, waste receptacles, utilities, or other structures not directly related to access or control of access through the area. Interpretive facilities and signs should be restricted to the periphery of the area or subdued and kept to a minimum. No agricultural uses are permitted on this land. Preservation will be the primary objective in the management of these lands, which could include removal or modification to retain specific plant or animal species in relation to the total environment. All other uses will be regulated to serve this end.

e. Flowage Easement Lands.

These lands are not owned by the Corps, but the Corps has the right to flood the land if necessary for project operation purposes.

8.03. Wetlands

8.04. Washington State Shoreline Management Act of 1971

8.05. The Lakeshore Management Plan for Lake Wallula

8.06. Outgrants and Disposals

8.07. Allocation of Project Lands by Acres

9.01. General

9.02. Port and Industrial Development

a. Port of Umatilla.

(1) Site Information.

The Port of Umatilla has acquired 270 acres (15 acres submerged), with 3,500 feet of shoreline frontage (see photo 9-1). Of this, 1.2 acres and 1,200 feet of frontage are reserved for public port terminal use. The Port also owns 1,175 acres of adjacent land suited to, and partly developed for, industrial purposes.

 
Photo 9-1. The Port of Umatilla has 3,500 feet of shoreline frontage

(2) Site Analysis.

There is a serious shortage of both frontage and backup storage space at the public port terminal area. Also, open water area for barge approach and maneuvering is restricted. The access road to McNary Beach passes directly through the port and industrial developments, posing restrictions on developmental and operational activities. Adjustments are possible that can at least partially relieve these problems.

(3) Site Use Objective.

Provide additional lands for port and industrial use by conveying McNary Beach recreation site to the Port of Umatilla. Also, investigate the possibility of creating a landfill with material from the second powerhouse excavation.

(4) Proposed Development.

Develop a new access road to McNary Beach recreation area that does not pass through the prime waterfront lands of the port. This is possible by utilizing Umatilla County road number 625, which extends from Highway 730 north along the east line of Sections 14 and 11 directly to McNary Beach. Right-of-way for the new access road across port property should be granted by the port in exchange for the release of the existing easement for the present road. Construction costs for the new road will be borne by the port.

Investigate utilizing material from the second powerhouse excavation, and construct a landfill along port frontage (extending from the existing fill at the public dock upstream to the east boundary of the port-owned shorelands). The north or waterside edge of this fill should be located along about the 320 contour to provide navigation depths along its reservoir side. This is included in the overall plan for beneficial use of spoil from the second powerhouse foundation excavation.

Modify the boundaries of the restricted water area upstream from the dam to provide adequate tug and barge maneuvering space throughout the extended length of the port terminal and industrial frontage.

Relocate the existing recreation facilities at McNary Beach Park upstream approximately 1,400 feet. The Port of Umatilla will accept the financial responsibility for development of the new site.

Upon completion of the new park, the 40-acre McNary Beach site will be sold to the Port of Umatilla.

Approximately 7,700 feet of shoreline between Box Canyon and Hat Rock State Park will be designated for industrial access corridors. The Port's development and storage facilities will be located on the bluff off Corps' lands. The corridors will allow commodities to be transported by conveyor or pipeline between the "plant" and barge tie-up at the water's edge. The corridors will not be fenced or hinder in any way the foot and bike traffic along the future shoreline trail.

b. Port of Kennewick.

(1) Site Information.

The Kennewick Port Commission has acquired extensive areas of industrial land along the shoreline in eastern Benton County (see photo 9-2). This includes project lands at four locations, and the intervening private lands.

 
Photo 9-2. The Port of Kennewick has large tracts of industrial land at four locations on the project

The Hover site is, as yet, undeveloped. It includes 197 acres and 4,000 feet of frontage, of which 13 acres and 1,200 feet of frontage are reserved for public port terminal use. There are some shallow areas offshore that could mean some dredging and filling or construction of pile-supported piers to gain barge access.

The Finley site is a 51-acre tract situated between Levee 15C and Piert Road. It has no direct waterfront access, and is bisected by the Burlington Northern Railroad. That part situated landward from the railroad is very limited insofar as water-related industry is concerned. It does offer important wildlife values.

The Hedges site has 169 acres (41 acres submerged) and 10,200 feet of frontage, with 8 acres and 2,200 feet of frontage reserved for public port terminal use. Tenants include Chevron Chemical, Collier Chemical, and Allied Chemical. Chevron has developed, and operates, its own barge slip and dock. The development of additional slips and docks within the sheltered water area in front of Levee 7 would require dredging and filling work. No dredging would be allowed nearer than 500 feet in front of the levee. There is deep water close in on that part of the shoreline exposed to the main reservoir. There are port-owned lands available for additional developments.

The Clover Island complex (see photo 9-3) is a 15-acre island owned by the Port of Kennewick, and is located near the right bank (River Mile 328.8). Access is afforded by a road over Levee 5D and along a connecting causeway. The Corps owns a flowage easement over the island and to the right, in order to breach the causeway should this be necessary in a flood emergency. A sheltered water area of about 35 acres lies between the island and the levee. Various commercial, industrial, and public service facilities have been developed on the island including a boat club, a commercial marina, a hotel-motel, a restaurant, the Coast Guard station, and the port offices.

 
Photo 9-3. The Clover Island complex contains various commercial, industrial, and private service facilities

(2) Site Analysis.

Three of the four sites appear to be accommodating development as planned. The Finley site, however, has no waterfront access.

(3) Site Use Objective.

Provide water access for port and industrial use at Finley.

(4) Proposed Development.

The Finley site (River Mile 320.5) lies behind Levee 15C, and is totally landlocked. To relieve this constraint, a small strip of shorelands lying in front of the levee has been reallocated for industrial use and access on the land allocation map. Since this land includes the levee itself, it is proposed that the port's use of the shorelands be allowed by long-term lease rather than by sale. This reallocation and lease will make possible the port's use of its lands, in conformance with the terms of Section 108 of Public Law 86-645.

c. Port of Walla Walla.

(1) Site Information.

The Walla Walla Port commission has acquired McNary project lands at four different shoreline locations in western Walla Walla County.

At the Wallula site, there are 68 acres (13 acres submerged) with 3,700 feet of frontage, of which 6 acres and 900 feet of frontage are reserved for public port terminal use. A private grain terminal has been developed, including a sediment protection dike. The public terminal area is unusable, and is nearly filled with sediment. Its development and beneficial use requires extensive dredging and protective dike construction.

At the Attalia site (see photo 9-4), there are 330.23 acres, with about 10,200 feet of frontage. No frontage has been reserved for public port terminal use. The Boise Cascade paper mill and container factory occupies 176 acres, with 5,500 feet of frontage. A developed barge slip is inoperable due to the sediment deposition in the approach channel. The north Attalia site has 99 acres (97.9 acres submerged). It is undeveloped, and has shallow offshore water. Barge service along any or all of the Attalia frontage will require extensive dredging.

 
Photo 9-4. The Port of Walla Walla has four different shoreline locations within the project lands

The undeveloped Ady site includes 109 acres (101 acres submerged), and the 1,630 feet of frontage is mostly water area. The downstream 570 feet of frontage has been reserved for public port terminal use. Any development of the Ady site requires extensive dredging and filling to create barge slips, loading piers, and an approach channel.

The Burbank site (see photo 9-5) includes 260 acres (95 acres submerged) and 7,630 feet of frontage. A small area, 3 acres and 700 feet of frontage, has been designated for public port use. Several industries are operating at the Burbank site, including two grain terminals and a barge tow and repair service. A major part of the area is still undeveloped, and would require dredging and filling.

 
Photo 9-5. The Port of Walla Walla's Burbank site houses two grain terminals and a barge towing and repair service

(2) Site Analysis.

The development of the Ady site would cause greater adverse impact than at any of the other three sites. This is because it is flanked on both sides by lands classified for intensive wildlife management. In addition, the destruction of aquatic life from development at the Ady site would be an adverse impact.

(3) Site Use Objective.

Take action to remove the threat of environmental degradation, and ensure the continued protection of wildlife values at the Ady site, as well as at the adjacent wildlife lands.

(4) Proposed Development.

Initiate a land exchange between the Port and the Corps, followed by a reclassification of the Ady site to intensive wildlife management. This action also involves the south part of the Burbank port site, as discussed in the following paragraphs.

(a) Site Analysis.

The south (or downstream portion) of the Burbank site contains 121 acres, with 62 acres of land (islands and shorelands) and 59 acres of shallow water. Adjacent downstream lands are allocated for intensive wildlife management. The Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way divides the south Burbank site from the upstream north Burbank site. Here again, extensive dredging and filling would be required to permit the beneficial use of the industrial terminal potentials of the property. Again, serious environmental degradation would result.

(b) Site Use Objective.

As at the Ady site, changes in land ownership and land allocation are proposed to ensure the continued protection of wildlife values, as well as to clear the way for the port to accomplish its mission of providing barge terminal facilities needed in the area.

(5) Elements of Land Exchange.

The proposed exchanges involve the following essential elements and land areas:

• Reallocate all of south Hood Park area for industrial use and access (lands southwest of the highway).

• Arrange a land exchange between the Corps and the Port of Walla Walla, under which the Corps would reacquire title to the Ady and south Burbank sites. In exchange, title to the south Hood Park lands would be transferred to the Port of Walla Walla.

• Reallocate the Ady and south Burbank sites from port terminal and industrial use and access to intensive wildlife management.

• Modify the McNary General Plan to incorporate the Ady and south Burbank sites.

• Add the two areas to the wildlife management license. When completed, these actions will ensure the continued protection of wildlife values at both the Ady and south Burbank sites.

The above actions are not routine, and may involve a lengthy timeframe for completion. It is important, however, that this effort be accepted as beneficial, and that the five actions listed above be initiated and processed in an effective manner.

d. Port of Pasco.

(1) Site Information.

The Pasco Depot site (see photo 9-6) has extensive land areas and warehousing and other facilities operated by the Port of Pasco. The project lands acquired by the port include 161 acres (36 submerged) and 10,000 feet of frontage, of which 8.0 acres and 1,000 feet of frontage are reserved for public port terminal use. The big Pasco Depot, acquired by the port after World War II, offers 432 acres of land and 1,500,000 square feet of warehouse space. A barge slip and dock, with loading crane and other dockside equipment, have been developed. There is still about 9,000 feet of frontage with extensive adjacent land space as yet undeveloped. Offshore areas are shallow, and require dredging and filling or extension to deep water with piling-supported piers, etc.

 
Photo 9-6. The Port of Pasco has 10,000 feet of shoreline frontage

In addition, the port owns and operates the original port terminal site upstream from the Burlington Northern Railroad bridge (just upstream from Pasco Boat Basin). This has about 30 acres and 1,800 feet of frontage, with a general cargo dock and both grain and petroleum products transfer and storage facilities.

(2) Site Analysis.

Although it appears that the Port of Pasco still has lands that are undeveloped, they have expressed interest in a 15-acres parcel of land located between the downstream end of port property and Sacajawea State Park. The port has also expressed interest in additional lands in the Martindale area on the Snake River.

(3) Site Use Objective.

Prepare an environmental assessment, and conduct other studies to determine if the 15-acre parcel should remain in its present classification, or be made available to the port.

(4) Proposed Development.

The Port of Pasco lands will continue to be developed for water-oriented activities of a port and industrial nature.

e. Port of Benton - Richland Site.

(1) Site Information.

The Benton Port Commission acquired 291 acres with 6,400 feet of frontage (see photo 9-7). Of this, 12 acres and 1,200 feet of frontage have been reserved for public port terminal use. There is a small operating barge slip near the upstream end of the property. Otherwise, the waterfront lands are undeveloped. Rail access is not currently available. Landside parts of the property have been developed as part of an "Office Park" complex. a master plan for development of the total 291 acres was completed by the port in July 1979.

 
Photo 9-7. The Port of Benton has 6,400 feet of shoreline frontage

(2) Site Analysis.

Since this port site is located at the upper end of the project, and is somewhat removed from industrial activities, it will probably not have a need for expansion for some time.

(3) Site Use Objective.

Proceed with development, in accordance with the port's master plan, with no need for additional lands.

(4) Proposed Development.

No action is required at this time.

f. Non-Project and Non-Port Areas.

Besides the waterside developments on port-managed lands, there are a number of facilities on private lands abutting the project boundary that utilize the navigation features of the project or involve the consumptive use of water or both. In all cases, the use of project-owned shorelands has been arranged by easement, lease, or permit. These include Port Kelley grain terminal; Tidewater Barge terminal and storage; Salt Lake pipeline terminal, petroleum storage, and barge tie-up; Phillips Pacific Chemical barge tie-up; Allied Chemical barge tie-up (the four previous facilities are located on the north shore at the mouth of the Snake River and, when acquired by the corps, use was retained by the owner and the areas are not available for conveyance); and Pacific Northwest Grain Growers' grain terminal at Kennewick. Conditions vary from site to site with regard to expansion possibilities. Land area is closely restricted at Port Kelley and Pacific Northwest Grain Growers.

9.03. Public Park and Recreation Areas Development

a. McNary Beach.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

This Corps-operated day-use park (see photo 9-8) is located on the left bank (south shore) of Lake Wallula, at River Mile 293.5, and is approximately 1½ miles upstream from the dam. Vehicular access is provided by a local project road that leaves U.S. Highway 730 at the Hermiston Junction, passes by the left abutment of the dam, and goes through the Port of Umatilla terminal and storage facilities. Boat access directly from the reservoir is possible. There are no launching, moorage, or tie-up facilities.

 
Photo 9-8. McNary Beach is a 1½-mile-long, narrow shoreline area, with a swimming beach

(b) Site Description.

This is a nearly 1&frac;-mile-long, 118-acre relatively narrow shoreline area with sloping and irregular terrain, including basalt escarpments and silt-covered talus slopes. The beach and associated picnic area occupy the downstream one-fourth of the frontage. Here, the terrain is rolling, with gentle to very steep slopes and deep sandy soils. Throughout the area, except for the 12.5 acres of developed lawn and trees, the vegetation is mostly sagebrush, bitterbrush, cheat grass, and drought-tolerant forbs. Perennial grasses are replacing the cheat grass as the lands recover from the overgrazing of past years.

(c) Site Analysis.

With the need for additional port lands, it appears advantageous to relocate the facilities at this park to a site approximately 1,400 feet upstream. The site of the new park is more suited for recreation activities than the current park area. Moving the park upstream far outweighed the other option of locating industrial development upstream of the park.

Also of significance is the route of the access road serving the park. At present, it passes directly through the port area, with the grain elevators, public dock, and barge tie-up facilities on one side and petroleum storage tanks on the other. An easement for this road was retained by the Government when the land was sold to the port. This adverse feature can be eliminated by providing for access to the new park directly from U.S. Highway 730.

(d) Limiting Factors.

Relocating the park to the upstream site will reduce expansion possibilities, because of the port downstream and the lack of suitable terrain upstream.

(e) Site Use Objective.

The present recreation facilities will be operated in their current status with no major improvements until the park is reconstructed at the upstream site.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

Present development includes an access road, 167 paved parking spaces (plus a 75-car paved area on port lands), beach grading with protective groin and designated swimming area, floating diving platform, restroom-change house, onsite water supply, shade trees, and lawn grass with automatic sprinkler system, entrance sign, and picnic tables (see plate 9-1).

 
Plate 9-1. McNary Beach

(b) Current Needs.

The same recreational activities that exist at the present site will be provided for at the new upstream facility. The scope of development will remain unchanged.

(c) Proposed Development.

Work proposed includes the relocation of park facilities to the upstream site. The Corps will provide the design of the new facilities to the Port of Umatilla, who will be responsible for construction at the new site.

Boundary fencing is needed to protect the resources of the site and facilitate effective management.

Relocation of the boat launching ramp currently located upstream of the dam.

(d) Possible Future Work.

The amount of long-range future development required depends on the magnitude of public need that arises from growth in the local region. When such need is demonstrated, careful planning must be initiated due to limited upstream shorelands.

Heavy use of the boater's destination areas may require the establishment of more durable vegetation (irrigated trees and grass), development of a water supply, and the installation of restrooms.

Construct a bike path along the old railroad grade from McNary Beach to Hat Rock State Park.

(e) Alternative Development.

Changes in powerhouse design, location, or construction techniques could result in the availability of fill material to create the islands. Should this happen, development plans at the new McNary Beach site should be adjusted so as to utilize the islands for the creation of a boater's destination park.

(3) Funding.

(a) Proposed Development.

Relocation of the existing park will be undertaken and funded by the Port of Umatilla. Any betterment of facilities at the new site would be evaluated and deducted from the purchase price of the old park site.

(b) Second Powerhouse Phase.

Relocation of the boat launching ramp will be accomplished under the second powerhouse project.

(c) Future Work.

Cost sharing will be required for all future work. At present, there has been no interest by a non-Federal agency to lease the park.

b. Hat Rock State Park.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

This major park area (see photo 9-9) is located on the left bank (south shore) of Lake Wallula, at River Mile 298.6, about 6½ miles upstream from the dam. Vehicular access is afforded directly from U.S. Highway 730 over about ½ mile of paved access road. Boat access directly from the main reservoir is available, with launching ramp and trailer parking, but no moorage facilities.

 
Photo 9-9. Hat Rock State Park is operated as a state park by the Oregon State Parks Division

(b) Site Description.

The 220 acres of project land, in combination with 492 acres of contiguous state-owned land, is operated as a state park by the Oregon State Parks Division. With the land use allocations currently proposed, another 33 acres are available for lease (12.6 acres acquired in 1968, plus 20 acres that will more clearly define the boundary line). The total area offers varied and very interesting terrain with prominent geologic features (Hat Rock, Boat Rock, basalt rock escarpments, and many rock outcrops), a narrow 55-acre sheltered arm of the reservoir fed by headwater springs, and rolling areas with some sandy soils and gravely areas. There is a high sand slope and a small sandy beach on the main reservoir at the mouth of the Hat Rock inlet. Other beach areas and offshore islands with unique wildlife values are situated along the shoreline area upstream from the main park frontage. Vegetation in the undeveloped areas is semi-desertlike (sagebrush, bitterbrush, cheat grass, etc). Perennial grasses are replacing the cheat grass since grazing has been eliminated. Soils vary from sandy silty deposits to thin mantles over rock and gravel, all typical of the rocky scablands along this reach of Columbia River shorelands. Much of the sheltered inlet is flanked by park development.

(c) Site Analysis.

The site, including state-owned lands and Corps lands currently leased, together with additional lands available for lease, has high capability for recreational use. It offers extensive areas of usable land, convenient access, interesting terrain, varied shoreline character, and important wildlife values on adjacent lands and islands. Soils are adequate for landscape development and for the accommodation of sewage disposal fields.

Considerable expansion of facilities is possible without encroachment on the scenic features of the area (Hat Rock, Boat Rock, and other interesting basalt outcrops), the natural terrain, and vegetative qualities. However, because of the open character of the site, care should be taken in siting facilities to avoid jeopardizing views of these natural features.

Poor water quality in the swimming area is a current problem. Regrading and resanding of the area are needed to remove and/or contain the muddy sediments.

Situated on private lands opposite the park entrance is a private commercial development that began as a small campground, but has developed into a combination campground and mobile home court, with a small store and a go-cart track. It was located here to draw business primarily from park patrons and recreation visitors to the reservoir. Under current conditions, the impact is one of a somewhat unsightly annoyance, a commercial intrusion into an otherwise natural setting. The private development also causes confusion as to where the park entrance is located and who owns the facility.

Similarly, the private housing development completely surrounded by the state park precludes the development of the park in the most logical and desirable manner.

The McNary Yacht Club facilities, located on land leased from the Corps, are also an impediment to the full development of the park.

(d) Limiting Factors.

The most serious factors affecting development and use of the Hat Rock complex are the current uses of adjacent non-project lands, as described in the preceding paragraph. These can be somewhat overcome by boundary fencing and effective landscape screening. Continued accommodation of the McNary Yacht Club on project lands at Hat Rock must be resolved prior to the establishment of a viable commercial marina on the lower reservoir area. This action, however, would not be taken until a market study and analysis indicated the need for such a facility.

(e) Site Use Objective.

The Hat Rock State Park area, as now administered, has the potential for a regional park affording almost a full range of recreational opportunities. Both day use facilities, as well as overnight camping facilities, should be increased. Auto circulation at several locations presents an undesirable situation. The swimming area has water quality problems. The private yacht club site has potential as a commercial boat marina, and would serve a pressing public need of the region expressed at the public workshops.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

About 40 acres have been intensively developed. This includes paved access and circulatory roads, 444 paved car parking spaces, 52 paved car and trailer parking spaces, one two-lane launching ramp, one restroom, two restroom-changehouses, sheltered swimming area (only partly useable because of muddy sediment), extensive tree and lawn grass plantings with underground sprinkler system, park maintenance building and storage yard, and onsite park manager (see plate 9-2).

 
Plate 9-2. Hat Rock State Park

(b) Current Needs.

The development proposed at Hat Rock relates to four areas of deficiency:

1. the need to rehabilitate the swimming area;
2. the current need for a sheltered water area as a haven for small boats, and the need for a commercial boat marina serving the lower reaches of the reservoir (both as expressed at the public workshops;
3. the general need for more camping accommodations in the region, as cited in the Oregon State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan; and
4. improved vehicular movement through certain congested areas.

(c) Proposed Development. (More detailed information is contained in the State Parks Development Plan.)

Work proposed includes resanding the beach area, site development in the marina area, bike path construction, and the installation of park boundary fencing.

The swimming area will be regarded and resurfaced. This should include gravel base over polyethylene for the control of aquatic growth, and an ample blanket of new beach sand. This should have no effect on the fish-stocking program now taking place at the impoundment.

Basic improvements are needed in the marina area to accommodate the non-commercial activities there. These include general grading, crib seawall, launching ramp, and car/trailer parking.

Development of the bike path system within the park will be undertaken when the path has been extended to the park from McNary Beach.

Some park boundary fencing is still needed to prevent further entrenchment of the private use of the park entrance road and any proliferation of additional private developments and activities deleterious to public use of the state park. This should include boundary monumentation; appropriate gates, swingbars, bollards, or other structures affording obvious control; and demarcation of the entrance to the private trailer-park campground. Redesign of the circulation system would also alleviate these problems.

The creation of a sheltered water area for small boats in the marina area is required. Use of materials from the second powerhouse excavation should be investigated.

As the northeast Oregon area grows and develops, there will be increasing need for outdoor recreation facilities. Long-range plans at Hat Rock should accommodate these growing needs, and should include the expansion of both day-use and overnight camping facilities.

(3) Funding.

(a) Proposed Development.

The proposed work will require the extension of lease boundaries, and the execution of a cost-sharing contract. The local agency responsible should be the State of Oregon Parks and Recreation Division. No funds are currently programmed.

Costs associated with the placement of fill in the protective dikes under the second powerhouse project will be investigated.

(b) Future Work.

Costs for the future expansion of day-use and overnight camping facilities will require cost sharing, probably by the State of Oregon.

c. Cold Springs-Sand Station.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

These Corps-operated areas are located on the left bank (south shore) of Lake Wallula, about 8 miles upstream from the dam, extending from River Mile 299 to 301. Vehicular access to the Cold Springs Beach is available from U.S. Highway 730 over about ½ mile of paved and gravel-surfaced access road. Access to the Sand Station beach is currently gained over a short dirt road and an unauthorized traffic connection to U.S. Highway 730. Boat access is possible at numerous locations by informal beach tie-up. There are presently no operable launching or mooring facilities.

(b) Site Description.

These two sites provide some very attractive recreational values (see photo 9-10). Important among these are the extensive stretches of clean sandy beach with shallow offshore waters and the unique wildlife habitat associated with offshore islands and landside wetlands. Soils vary from rock outcrops and thin soils over rock in the westerly parts of the area, to rolling sandy areas in the easterly portions. Some low-lying areas are moist and swampy. Most of the vegetation is semi-desertlike (sagebrush, bitterbrush, cheat grass, and drought-tolerant forbs). Some shade trees have been established at Sand Station. Volunteer woody growth (Russian olive, cottonwood, red alders, etc.) occurs along significant segments of the shorelands, both islands and landside.

 
Photo 9-10. Cold Springs-Sand Station is a visually attractive recreation area,
with opportunities for swimming and water-skiing

(c) Site Analysis.

The highway access at Sand Station is unauthorized and noticeably hazardous. Improvement should be made to reduce this unsafe condition.

(d) Limiting Factors.

Given the extent of land now owned by the Government, Cold Springs and Sand Station are distinctly separate areas with little opportunity for complementary development, management, and use.

(e) Site Use Objective.

The area offers opportunity for beach swimming, water-skiing, and associated water front activities; nature study; and public hunting. The beaches are used heavily by visitors arriving by boat. Development will remain minimal in the absence of a local agency capable and willing to carry the cost-sharing responsibilities.

In the long term, given future recreation needs and local cost sharing, the area could be an important part of the Hat Rock State Park complex.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

Development at Cold Springs is presently limited to graveled access road and random parking, vault toilets, picnic tables and garbage cans, fire pits, shoreline tree plantings, and several reaches of natural beach. Sand Station offers similar development: graveled access road and random parking, vault toilets, mature shade trees, picnic tables, fire pits, garbage cans, and semisheltered clean sand beach.

(b) Proposed Development.

Boundary fencing, tree planting, and continued management of the area's natural resources are all proposed developments. The highway department will be contacted, and a recommendation will be made that a proper approach be planned and developed for this site.

(c) Possible Future Work.

Develop with Hat Rock State Park as part of a major recreation complex.

(3) Funding.

(a) Proposed Development.

Continued management of the natural values of the area, including the installation of boundary fencing, will be accomplished with operation and maintenance funds.

(b) Future Work.

As previously noted, future work will require cost sharing by a qualified local agency, logically, the State of Oregon Parks Division.

d. Madame Dorion Park.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

This Corps-operated, small day-use and camping park (see photo 9-11) is located on the right bank (north shore) of the Walla Walla River arm of McNary Reservoir, along the east side of U.S. Highway 12-395. Vehicular access is available directly from the highway over a short, paved access road. Boat access has been completely cut off by the extreme sedimentation in this arm of the reservoir, except for a very small reach at the east end of the site where the old highway meets the riverbank.

 
Photo 9-11. Madame Dorion Park is extremely popular with local fishermen

(b) Site Description.

Of the 46 acres at this site, 42 occupy a part of what was, in the 1950's, a point of land surrounded on three sides by the then newly impounded waters of the reservoir. These waters have since been replaced with sediment bars now grown thick with willows and associated riparian growth. The camping area occupies about 9 acres of flat ground, with some shade trees and sparse natural vegetation. The undeveloped area is rolling, gently-to-moderately steep ground, given entirely to native forbs and grasses. Soils in the willow-covered delta area are waterborne sediments.

About 4 acres of shoreland on the south side of the river are included as part of the park. It affords access for fishermen to the riverbank via the adjacent highway rest area. There are no facilities.

(c) Site Analysis.

The area is popular with local fishermen, bird watchers, horseback riders, and other recreational vehicle enthusiasts. Except for a small parking area and a short stretch of open riverbank at its extreme upstream end, the area is hemmed in and separated from the reservoir by a broad bank of dense woody growth on the sediment bar along the shoreline.

(d) Limiting Factors.

The dominant factor is the limited extent of meaningful association with the water areas of the reservoir for non-wildlife recreation activities.

(e) Site Use Objective.

Provide opportunity for non-fee camping and daytime recreational use such as fishing, bird watching, and horseback riding.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

The site is equipped for informal recreational vehicle and/or tent camping with paved access road, gravel-surfaced circulatory road, random camping stalls, water supply from a drilled well with standpipe outlets, sanitary dump station, and vault toilets (see plate 9-3).

 
Plate 9-3. Madame Dorion Park

(b) Proposed Development.

No additional development is proposed.

(c) Possible Future Work.

To a moderate degree, and consistent with the availability of funds, upgrade, intensify, and/or expand development as warranted by usage--subject to cost sharing.

(3) Funding.

Cost sharing appears quite improbable. Continue Corps management with operation and maintenance funds.

e. Hover Park.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

Hover Park (see photo 9-12) is located on the right bank (west shore) of Lake Wallula, at River Mile 317.5, about 25 miles upstream from the dam, and about 12 miles southeast of Kennewick. Currently, vehicular access to the site is afforded by local county roads, with the last ½ mile to the main shoreline portion of the area following abandoned and unimproved road segments across Port of Kennewick lands. (The deed to Port of Kennewick reserves to the Government an easement for road purposes over the conveyed lands.) Access along the shoreline is restricted by heavy thickets of Russian olive. Boat access is possible to the main shoreline area, but is seriously impeded to downstream segments by the abandoned railroad bed (the top of which is barely beneath the surface of the pool). There are no launching or mooring facilities.

 
Photo 9-12. Hover Park is largely undeveloped, and is leased
to Benton County for park and recreational purposes

(b) Site Description.

This 265-acre tract is leased to Benton County for park and recreation purposes. It is, as yet, undeveloped, but is considered to be important in the long-range park program of the county. The shorelands lying outboard from Burlington Northern Railroad, in three separate pieces, are flat, with the two larger areas having wide shoreline bands of heavy woody growth (primarily Russian olive). These lands are well suited to development. The two smaller pieces have no land access except by crossing the main line railroad. About one-half of the total acreage lies landward from the railroad. This land varies from gently sloping to steep. Much of it is suitable for development, but is without access to the main reservoir. Soils are of fair to good quality, with those on the flatlands having previously been farmed.

(c) Site Analysis.

The presently available access to the main shorelands area, going across Port of Kennewick lands, is quite unsatisfactory. An overcrossing of the railroad is needed at the end of Hover School Road. The wood thickets will require thinning to gain good visual and physical relationship with the reservoir.

The Port of Kennewick Hover industrial site is just upstream. Industrial development and activities here could pose some adverse impacts if noise, smoke, fumes, or other pollutants are generated. Visual impacts could be adequately screened.

(d) Limiting Factors.

Until an overcrossing at the main line railroad is provided, the lack of good vehicular access is the prime limitation of the area. The location of the railroad between the largest part of the park area and the reservoir severely limits the value of this land for intensive day-use activities. It offers some value for overnight camping, low-density recreation, group camping, or wildlife use.

(e) Site Use Objective.

The Hover Park site, with the railroad overcrossing, has the potential for a regional park serving the Tri-Cities; and offering day use on the large area outboard from the railroad and overnight camping on the landside area. The two smaller outboard areas, quite secluded and without road access, offer an attractive opportunity as boater destination sites once the submerged old railroad bed is properly breached.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

No development has been accomplished to date (see plate 9-4).

 
Plate 9-4. Hover Park

(b) Proposed Development.

No major development is planned in the near future in the major park areas: the overnight camping area and the outboard day-use area. It is proposed, however, to develop the two smaller outboard areas as boater destination parks. This work will provide vault toilets, picnic units, thinning of woody thickets to permit access and create picnic/activity space and/or planting of shade trees, beach grading, boat tie-up docks, and (outboard from the submerged railroad bed) ski takeoff docks. A critical and necessary first phase of this work is the breaching of the old railroad bed to provide an ample clear opening for small boats, including fixed-keel sailboats. Each end of the opening should be built up with substantial amounts of fill material to create stable emergent land. The remaining segments should be effectively marked with driven shafts or styrofoam floats so that the hazard is clearly seen by boaters.

It is also proposed to establish an effective tree and shrub screen between the port lands and the main outboard day-use recreation area.

(c) Future Development.

Construct an overpass over the railroad. Develop circulatory road systems, both landside and outboard from the railroad. Develop overnight camping on the landside area. Develop day-use recreation facilities on the main shoreland area outboard from the railroad.

(3) Funding.

(a) Proposed Development.

Development of the boater destination park will require cost sharing and operation by a non-Federal agency. Benton County holds a lease on this and two other park areas on Lake Wallula. The county has an outstanding record of effective park development and management at Columbia and Two Rivers Parks, and can be expected to make every effort toward carrying the cost-sharing and operational responsibilities at Hover Park. No Corps or County funds are presently programmed.

(b) Future Work.

Benton County, as lessee, is the non-Federal agency responsible for cost sharing on all future work.

f. Two Rivers Park.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

Two Rivers Park is a day-use park (see photo 9-13) leased and operated by Benton County. It is located on the right bank (south shore) of Lake Wallula, at River Mile 324, opposite the mouth of the Snake River. It lies 33 miles upstream from the dam, and about 4 miles east of Kennewick. Vehicular access is provided by local streets and county roads. Finley Road runs the length of the park adjacent to the landside boundary. Boat access from the reservoir is possible through a channel that has limited clearances at the lower pool levels. Boat launching, with a handling dock, is provided.

 
Photo 9-13. Two Rivers Park is only 4 miles from Kennewick, Washington, and is a popular day-use area

(b) Site Description.

This park occupies 210 acres of project property in the shape of an elongated triangle. It is comprised of 99 acres of land area and 111 acres of water. The principal land area, in terms of present development, lies in front of the downstream end of Levee 6B. The principal water area, a large sheltered basin, was created by borrow operations during levee construction. Downstream from this basin is a long relatively narrow area of shorelands fronted by irregularly shaped shallow water areas, separated intermittently from the main reservoir by 20 acres of islands and sandbars. There are several clumps of deciduous trees, along with extensive areas and shoreline strips of willow and other riparian growth.

(c) Site Analysis.

This popular day-use recreation area has a moderate capability. It offers a high ratio of shoreline-to-land space that affords excellent relationship with the water. The islands and segments of the shorelands are designated as wetlands, which effectively preclude intensive park development. This is not necessarily a negative factor. The maintenance of substantial parts of the park as natural area can be made a major and attractive part of the park. There are some shallow areas that present problems for boaters; most notably, the access channel and some parts of the interior lagoon. Also, downstream segments of the shorelands have offshore shallows that preclude intensive boating activity, and afford built-in protection for the aquatic environment.

(d) Limiting Factors.

In the narrow, east one-half of the park, low-lying shorelands with lush aquatic growth and shallow offshore waters tend to limit development for intensive recreational activities. This encourages the use of much of the area for passive-type recreation (i.e., hiking, nature study, wildlife management, etc.).

(e) Site Use Objective.

The site has good potential for use as a local day-use park, offering both intensive recreation opportunities and areas for passive recreation.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

Present facilities include paved access and circulatory roads, paved and gravel-surfaced parking areas, launching ramp, swimming area, restrooms, water supply, tree and grass plantings, automatic sprinkling system, storage building, and caretaker's mobile home residence (see plate 9-5).

 
Plate 9-5. Two Rivers Park

The county's program included the completion of the new picnic area in 1982, with the installation of playground equipment and picnic tables.

(b) Proposed Development.

Needed work includes the development of a bike path through the length of the park, dredging of the boat channel, enlargement of the swimming area, and erosion protection measures. It is also proposed to relocate the caretaker's residence out of the park.

(c) Future Work.

Relocate boat launching facilities to the far east end of the park, and upgrade and expand the swimming and other day-use facilities around the lagoon. Upon relocation of the launching facilities, boats would be excluded from the embayment.

(3) Funding.

(a) Proposed Development.

Funds for the 1982 work were dispersed under a prior cost-sharing contract. Cost sharing will be required for additional work; and Benton County, as lessee, has that responsibility. No Corps funds are presently programmed beyond 1982. (Refer to the comments on Hover Park funding.)

(b) Future Work. Cost-sharing activities will be with Benton County and the Corps.

g. Hood Park.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

Hood Park is a day-use and camping park located on the left bank (east shore) of the Snake River arm of Lake Wallula, at Snake River Mile 2.5 (see photo 9-14). Direct vehicle access is afforded at the intersection of U.S. Highway 12-395 and State Highway 124. Boat access is now available at the launching ramp in the south side sheltered basin, and will be available for the main north side park area when the ramp and short-term tie-up docks are completed immediately upstream from the highway bridge, as now planned and partly developed.

 
Photo 9-14. Hood Park is a day-use and camping park with direct vehicle access from two major highways.
Boat access is also available to the park.
The park is extremely popular with both local and highway campers.

(b) Site Description.

This is one of the major parks on the McNary Project. It is a 129-acre (including lands to be exchanged) area administered by the Corps, and is situated on both sides of the U.S. Highway 12-730 approach to the Snake River bridge. On the southwest side of the highway is a small sheltered basin with boat ramp, parking area, and access road. Lands around the basin are suited to park development. The main part of the park lies on the northeast side of the highway, and offers day-use and overnight camping facilities. The park is popular with both local and highway campers. An adverse element is the divisive effect of the highway. The two areas function, and are used, as completely separate and individual recreation units: one as a boat launching area and takeoff point for boating visitors, and the other as a developed day-use and camping park. With the development of the new boat ramp and car and trailer parking area by the bridge, it is possible that the south side basin area might well be put to some other use: commercial boat marina, port and industrial use (as previously discussed), or wildlife habitat development.

The 99-acre main park area lies on what was formerly a productive family farm. A part of the land lies behind a low ridge, and is flat with slight slopes away from the reservoir. The picnic areas and overnight camping area are all located on the reservoir side of the low ridge, on lands having gentle-to-moderately steep slopes toward the reservoir. These lands are fully planted to shade trees and irrigated lawn. Most of the shoreline offers good access to the water. The flatlands behind the shoreline offer good access to the water. The flatlands behind the ridge are planted to rough grass, with a few trees. A pond and wetlands area has been developed by regrading a low-lying swampy area.

(c) Site Analysis.

The park offers high capability for day use and camping. Considerable expansion is possible without encroachment on the wetlands area.

(d) Limiting Factors.

Low-lying areas of the park are subject to seasonal flooding. Expansion beyond the present 99 acres is not feasible.

(e) Site Use Objective.

The park fills a current need for day use and overnight camping. It will continue to serve this need, with consideration given to expanding the facilities. It is currently the most popular campground in the locality, frequently with all spaces filled on summer weekends.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

Presently available facilities include access and circulatory roads, 82 paved parking spaces, 69 paved camp stalls with electrical hookups, restroom-shower building, sanitary dump station, two playground areas, developed picnic area with restrooms, marked-off swimming area, ski takeoff docks, amphitheater, shade trees and lawn grass with sprinkler system, equipment storage shed, fenced storage yard, and caretaker's mobile home residence (see plate 9-6).

 
Plate 9-6. Hood Park

(b) Proposed Development.

Development planned will be aimed at completion, embellishment, and expansion of existing facilities accommodating day-use and camping activities. The new two-lane launching ramp with handling and tie-up docks, and associated parking for 28 cars and 60 car-trailer units, must be completed prior to the port taking control of the South Burbank area. Seating for the amphitheater will also be finished in the future. A nature trail will be developed, taking advantage of the resources of the constructed pond, the wetlands, and other natural characteristics of the site. Special facilities are planned for handicapped, elderly, and juvenile fisherman.

A loop or circulatory bike route will be developed by utilizing existing park roads, as well as by adding new bike paths where needed. The route will be designed for ultimate connection to the regional bike route, crossing the Snake River on the highway bridge, if this is feasible.

(c) Possible Future Work.

As public demand develops, the day-use and overnight camping facilities should be appropriately expanded.

(3) Funding.

(a) Proposed Development.

There is no qualified local agency currently interested in carrying the cost-sharing and operational responsibilities at Hood Park. Operation and maintenance funding will be utilized to replace worn out or damaged facilities until such a sponsor can be obtained.

(b) Future Work.

When demand demonstrates the need for major expansion, renewed efforts will be made toward securing a local sponsor.

h. Martindale.

This undeveloped area is located on the right bank of the Snake River arm, extending from about Mile 6 to Mile 8, and lying between the relocated railroad and the shoreline. Access is possible from the Pasco-Kahlotus Highway over about 3 miles of Martindale Road--partially paved and partly graveled. There is a railroad grade crossing at the Martindale siding. The downstream part is a small area of natural shoreland. The upstream part is a rather large high bench area partly constructed by spoil disposal from dredging of the navigation channel and partly natural rolling ground. Facing directly on the barge channel and situated high above the pool level, it offers essentially no usable shoreline. Both areas should be retained in the recreation allocations, Low Density Recreation and Future Intensive Recreation, as shown on the Land Use Map, thereby reserving them for future recreation development.

i. Sacajawea State Park.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

This day-use park (see photo 9-15), operated by the State of Washington Parks and Recreation Commission, is located at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers (Columbia River Mile 325). It has frontage on the right bank of the Snake River and the left bank of the Columbia River. Vehicle access is available over 2 miles of paved access road, which connects with Highway 12-395 near the west end of the Snake River Bridge. Boat access is possible at several points along the park shoreline: at short-term tie-up docks, at the launching ramp, and by informal beach tie-up.

 
Photo 9-15. Sacajawea State Park is located at the confluence of the Snake and Clearwater Rivers

(b) Site Description.

This 285-acre site (only 263 acres on Corps land) is roughly square in shape, and is bounded on the north by the Burlington Northern Railroad and on the west by 15 acres classified for low-density recreation use. The 44 acres of developed day-use area include all of the 22 acres of state-owned land on which the Corps purchased flowage easement rights. (Sacajawea Park was the only major developed park on the river shoreline at the time the McNary Project was built.) The park area is quite flat throughout its total area with much of the ground surface near the level of the reservoir. Impoundment of the reservoir raised the level of the water table and created quite extensive wetlands, inducing thick, lush growth over much of the site. Shoreline land on the developed part of the snake River frontage is steep, and has been protected with rock revetment. On the Columbia River side, the slope is very gradual, with shallow water extending well out into the reservoir.

(c) Site Analysis.

The site has a high capability for day use, with major emphasis on its historical significance and nature trails, wildlife study area, etc. The wetland areas have major impact on development and use possibilities.

(d) Limiting Factors.

The extensive areas of designated wetlands considerably limit the area of land available for intensive development. A developed swimming beach on the Snake River frontage was abandoned because of water quality problems. The Columbia River frontage is also questionable for beach swimming.

(e) Site Use Objective.

The historical significance of the site should continue to influence its development and use. The wildlife and wetland values offer important potentials for the development of nature study areas. The water-skiing and other day-use activities will continue to be popular. The long-range outlook includes provision of overnight camping facilities.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

Some of the facilities at Sacajawea are part of the original park development. The others were constructed at the time of pool impoundment, as replacements and relocations are required to fit with the higher water levels, plus some expansion. They include paved access road, 350 car parking spaces, a boat launching ramp, restrooms, historical museum, picnic facilities, water supply, shade trees, and lawn grass with irrigation system, maintenance buildings, and onsite park caretaker (see plate 9-7).

 
Plate 9-7. Sacajawea State Park

(b) Proposed Development.

Preliminary plans formulated by the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission offer the basis for work planned to be completed possibly by Fiscal Year 1986. This work is aimed at redevelopment and embellishment of swimming and boat launching facilities. The original swimming basin on the Snake River shorelands will be regraded and reshaped in a manner creating ample inlet and outlet channels to provide through circulation, as induced by natural reservoir currents. Regulation of water movement will be achieved by a control structure at the upstream end of the inlet channel. Footbridges will allow pedestrian access to the island created by channels.

The outlet channel will be sized and shaped to form a sheltered basin for boat launching and short-term tie-up docks. The existing automobile parking area will be renovated and rearranged to include space for car and trailer parking.

A new bathhouse will be constructed, and new parking areas will be developed to serve the swimming beach and surrounding picnic space. Playground equipment will be included in the new area.

The old swimming area and launching ramp on the Columbia River frontage will be removed, and the area will be replanted and blended into the existing landscaping.

(c) Possible Future Work.

The state's plans include the ultimate development of an overnight campground along the Snake River frontage upstream from the swimming area, new shop and maintenance yard, and another park ranger's residence.

(3) Funding.

(a) Proposed Development.

As lessee, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is the cost-sharing and operational agency for work at Sacajawea State Park. There is, as yet, no cost-sharing contract between the Corps and the State of Washington. Neither State or Corps funds are currently programmed.

(b) Future Work.

It is expected that the State of Washington will share costs of future recreational work at Sacajawea State Park, and will continue to carry operational responsibilities.

j. Pasco Boat Basin.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

This boat basin/day-use park (see photo 9-16), operated by the city of Pasco, is located on the left bank (north shore) of Lake Wallula at River Mile 328.0. Vehicular access is afforded over local city streets passing through commercial and industrial areas, as well as through a residential area. Boat access is afforded directly from the main reservoir into the sheltered basin, which offers public launching ramp, commercial moorage, short-term tie-up, and other boating services.

 
Photo 9-16. Pasco Boat Basin is a sheltered basin, constructed by building earthfilled dikes on the reservoir site

(b) Site Description.

The site comprises 9 acres of land and 11 acres of water. The sheltered basin was constructed by building earthfilled dikes on the reservoir side of a gravel borrow area shaped and sized for this purpose. A large flat area for buildings and parking space was also created by controlled borrow. The original site was basically a large riverside gravel deposit with a very thin mantle of coarse sandy soil. Presently, onsite vegetation is limited to grass and trees on the developed day-use playground area.

(c) Site Analysis.

The site has low to moderate capability. It is bounded on the west by the downstream end of Levee 12 and the Burlington Northern main line railroad, on the north by a small cluster (about 25 units) of houses completely and widely separated from other residential areas of Pasco, and on the east by Port of Pasco properties. Minor enlargement of the day-use and playground facilities is possible (and is currently underway) on the low-lying shoreland in front of the levee. Enlargement of the boat basin is not possible with presently-owned project lands.

(d) Site Use Objective.

Because of limited room for future expansion, the objective will be to continue operation of the facility at the present level of development.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

Present development includes a paved access road, 30 car parking spaces, 12 car and trailer parking spaces, two-lane paved launching ramp, restroom, picnic area with playground, shade trees, and lawn grass, sprinkling system, boat sales, repair and maintenance building, and enclosed sheltered moorage basin all developed and/or provided by the Corps and the city of Pasco. Facilities provided by the concessionaire include fencing of storage areas, 40 covered moorage slips, slips, and gasoline and oil dispensing facilities.

Facilities planned and nearing completion by the city, with some Corps involvement, include extension of the day-use area to the low-lying lands at the west end of the site with improved parking, replacement of playground equipment, installation of stationary picnic tables, drinking fountains, trash receptacles, and an irrigation system (see plate 9-8).

 
Plate 9-8. Pasco Boat Basin

(b) Future Work.

Except for the possible upgrading of the quality of development, and some expansion of moorage or other boating services (as done by the concessionaire), no 5-year phase or future work is anticipated.

(3) Funding.

The city of Pasco, as lessee, is the local agency expected to furnish required cost sharing and carry operation responsibilities. However, the future expenditure of governmental funds in any significant amount for capital improvements is not anticipated.

k. Pasco Pond.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

The Pasco Pond (see photo 9-17) is the ponding area for Levee 12-1. It is located on the left bank (north shore) of the reservoir at River Mile 329. It is accessible over short segments of undeveloped dirt roads that function as extensions of local city streets. There is no convenient or direct access from or to the reservoir.

 
Photo 9-17. Pasco Pond is an 8-acre pond that offers limited water activities

(b) Site Description.

The area is a rectangular-shaped site of about 11 acres. The water area of the pond covers about 8 acres. The 3 acres of land comprise constructed narrow benches and somewhat irregular sloping banks on three sides of the pond. The levee forms the fourth, or south side. At the bottom of the slopes, at and near water level, are thick stands of coarse grass. There are scattered clumps of trees and shrubs near the pond and on adjacent lands.

Soils of the local area are very light and sandy, and are very vulnerable to wind erosion when left unprotected.

Adjacent to the east end of the pond, on non-project land, is a small city park (one acre of trees and lawn grass) and a ball diamond/playfield area of about 2½ acres operated by the city of Pasco.

(c) Site Analysis.

The area offers only a small pond of sheltered water seemingly suitable for limited water activities. Brushy growth and irregular sloping banks make inconvenient access to the water.

(d) Limiting Factors.

Size of the area cannot be expanded within the limits of project property. Adjacent city-owned lands are undeveloped and possibly available for park development. At present, the herbicides used for the control of aquatic weeds are toxic to fish.

(e) Site Use Objective.

As new herbicides become available, they will be investigated to attempt to establish a weed control program that will e compatible with the objective of developing this site as a "put and take" fishing facility.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

The area is completely undeveloped (see plate 9-9).

 
Plate 9-9. Pasco Pond

(b) Proposed Development.

This area will be developed as a major element of the levee beautification effort. However, under other programs, proposed development includes extending city water and sewer service to the area and constructing picnic shelters and restrooms.

(c) Second Powerhouse Phase.

Cover drain ditch; regrade selected segments of the sloping banks; thin or remove brushy growth, and create a convenient meandering shoreline pathway, including the construction of access points for the elderly and persons with disabilities.

(d) Future Work.

No additional work on project lands. Development by the city of a community park on adjacent non-project lands should be studied, and probably encouraged.

(3) Funding.

(a) Proposed Development.

This should be accomplished on a cost-sharing basis with the city of Pasco. No funds are currently programmed.

(b) Second Powerhouse Phase.

This work should be undertaken during the first phase of the powerhouse construction project.

(c) Future Work.

Any park development on adjacent non-project lands would be the city's responsibility.

l. North Washington Pond.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

North Washington Pond (see photo 9-18) is the ponding area for Levee 5D. It is located on the right bank (south shore) of the reservoir at River Mile 328.7. It is accessible directly from the north end of Washington Street. There is no direct and convenient access to the reservoir. The Clover Island Boat Basin lies just over the levee from the pond, and has its road access also from Washington Street.

 
Photo 9-18. The North Washington Pond has the potential to be
a small 'put-and-take' fishing facility and park

(b) Site Description.

This 22-acre site is comprised of 14 acres of water surface, 5 acres of shorelands, and nearly 3 acres in an island. It occupies a triangular-shaped area of naturally low-lying Columbia River shoreland cut off from the reservoir by construction of the levee. The shoreline on the north, or levee side, is a steep constructed slope. The south side shoreline is narrow, naturally steep, and covered with brush. There is some woody growth on the island. A chain link fence follows along the toe of the levee and around the equipment/materials storage yard. The area is closely surrounded by a mobile home court and other residential and commercial properties of Kennewick.

(c) Site Analysis.

The area offers a small sheltered water area in a somewhat natural setting, with possibilities as a "put and take" fishing facility and small naturalistic park. Some dredging to deepen the water area may be necessary to improve conditions for fish life. The existing equipment/materials storage yard can be converted to park use provided that road access and some parking space near the pumps are retained for operation and maintenance activities. Another area may be required for the storage of equipment.

Low-lying portions of the island and natural (south side) shorelands are subject to flooding at times when storm runoff requires part or full utilization of the storage capacity of the pond.

Foot access on either side of the pond is awkward and somewhat hazardous, due to the steepness of the slopes and extent and thickness of the trees and shrubs.

(d) Limiting Factors.

Size of the area cannot be expanded without encroaching on the adjacent developed properties. The flooding potential occasioned by the runoff storage function of the pond imposes rigid limits on recreational development and activities on very minor parts of the area.

(e) Site Use Objective.

The area affords opportunity for development and use of a small neighborhood park featuring nature study; waterfowl and other wildlife habitat; and fishing by juveniles, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

The gravel-surfaced storage area, the enclosure fencing, and the pumps are the only developments on the site (see plate 9-10).

 
Plate 9-10. North Washington Pond

(b) Proposed Development.

Development of this site will be an important part of the levee beautification effort. Most of the development, however, will be accomplished under programs other than the second powerhouse. This will include dredging the pond area and regrading the shorelines, with construction of shoreline pathways and footbridges to the island, paving the access road and small parking area located near the pumps, developing four or five picnic units and a picnic shelter, construction restrooms, extending city water and sewer service to the area, and adding to the natural plant growth.

(c) Second Powerhouse Phase.

The bike path passes through this area on the top of the levee. A paved connection will be made from this path down to the picnic area. In addition, fishing docks and appropriate pedestrian access thereto will be developed on the outboard side of the levee, in the sheltered waters of Clover Island Basin.

(d) Future Work.

No additional work is contemplated.

(3) Funding.

Most of the development at this site will require cost sharing. Beautification and bike trail work will be completed under the McNary second powerhouse program.

Kennewick City is interested in a lease and a cost-sharing contract providing for the City's care and operation of the park and funding of any future development that may prove desirable.

m. Columbia Park.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

Columbia Park (see photo 9-19) is operated by Benton County, and is located on the right bank (south shore) of Lake Wallula, extending from River Mile 330.0 to River Mile 335.0. The park is bounded on its landward side by U.S. Highway 12, from which direct entry is provided at each end of the park.

 
Photo 9-19. Columbia Park is the most heavily used park on the project.
Operated by Benton County, this 600-acre park offers many excellent opportunities
for a variety of recreation opportunities.

(b) Site Description.

This 606-acre park is the most developed and heavily used park on the McNary Project. It extends along 5 miles of shoreline, including Bateman Island, and offers facilities for a variety of recreational activities (see photo 9-20). It is leased and operated, and was largely developed, by the Benton County Park Board. Columbia Park is the site of the annual Tri-City Water follies, a week-long celebration that attracts crowds in the 40,000 range.

 
Photo 9-20. Columbia Park is unique in that is completely contained within its three landward boundaries

Terrain throughout the site is only slightly irregular, with most of the area being flat or gently rolling. Soils vary from very thin mantles over gravel to areas of moderately deep wind-laid materials. There are areas interspersed with large loose rock and coarse gravel. Soils on the island area are water-deposited silts and gravels.

A unique feature of the site is its complete physical containment on its three landward boundaries, as effected by the upstream end of Levee 5D and elements of the highway interchange on the east; by Highway 12, the railroad, and the K.I.D. Canal on the south; and by the intensive commercial developments abutting the west boundary.

The old highway is a very strong element within the park, following generally parallel to the shoreline for nearly the full length. This four-lane pavement is an efficient circulation road during periods of heavy traffic (e.g., the annual water follies).

Urban and suburban areas of Kennewick overlook the park from high ground above Highway 12 and the K.I.D. Canal.

(c) Site Analysis.

The site has a very high capability for a wide variety of day-use activities, as well as for a considerable amount of overnight camping. The main park area contains about 4 miles of excellent and very usable shoreline (see photo 9-21), with convenient vehicular access directly from the old highway.

 
Photo 9-21. The development of a sports complex and some additional facilities are proposed at Columbia Park

Some water quality problems are being experienced in the swimming lagoon, which was created by utilizing a gravel borrow area.

Bateman Island is a low-lying island at the mouth of the Yakima River. Most of the 173 acres are subject to flooding at high river stages and are, therefore, limited in development potential. Attempted developments have been seriously vandalized, and are now abandoned. The island has been the site of raucous and, at times, violent activities by various unorganized groups. The corps, with concurrence from the County Park Board, took steps in late 1980 to close the island to vehicular traffic to protect the cultural resource values for an 18-month period, while studying possible alternative uses. The island contains a wealth of cultural resource sites that have been surveyed and examined by a local archaeological society that supports keeping the island in its natural state.

A continuing problem is access to the campground. Local residents find their way conveniently into the park. Not so for travelers seeking camping accommodations. The limited access features of the highway, in combination with the physical restraints imposed by the levees, create a very indirect and roundabout access route, a route that is difficult to sign clearly. This is especially true for eastbound traffic.

(d) Limiting Factors.

The park cannot be expanded beyond its present boundaries. Low-lying shorelands at the east end of the main park and much of Bateman Island are subject to infrequent short-term flooding.

(e) Site Use Objective.

Further development and continued use of the main park area as a large, urban, waterfront park offering a variety of day-use activities and overnight camping. Protect the wildlife and cultural resources of Bateman Island by following the plan proposed by the Citizens' Task Force.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

Present development, provided almost entirely by Benton County, includes paved access and circulatory roads; 300 car parking spaces and 50 car and trailer parking spaces; one six-lane boat launching ramp, one two-lane ramp, and one single-lane ramp; and short-term tie-up docks at seven locations. Also, developed swimming beach and lagoon (currently has water quality problems), changehouse-concession building, golf driving range, and 18-hole golf course. Also, 10 restrooms, developed picnic areas at several locations, juvenile fishing area, group camping area with lodge or assembly building, overnight campground with 32 units having water and power hookups, plus random camping space for another 100 or more additional units, one dump station, and extensive tree and grass plantings with irrigation system. Also, small boat center offering sales, services, rentals, and dry storage; information center (Convention Bureau Office); park office, maintenance building, and equipment storage yard; caretaker's residence; and two historical markers (see plate 9-11, sheet 1, sheet 2, and sheet 3).

 
Plate 9-11, Sheet 1. Columbia River

 
Plate 9-11, Sheet 2. Columbia Park

 
Plate 9-11, Sheet 3. Columbia Park

(b) Proposed Development.

The county's capital improvement schedule for completion as funds are available over the ensuing 4 or 5 years includes combination shelter and restroom serving the stage area, rehabilitation of the stage, rehabilitation and diversification of the concession building, correction of the water quality problem in the swimming lagoon, rehabilitation of park roads and parking areas, and the development of a sports complex that includes four ball fields and one soccer field. In addition, general improvements of park landscaping and some additional miscellaneous facilities (e.g., water slide, etc.) are proposed.

Also being proposed by a private developer is a commercial facility to be located at the west end of the park. It would include an indoor skating rink, outdoor pool and other swimming pool accessories, and a landscaped picnic area. Total funding and maintenance would be the responsibility of the developer.

(c) Possible Future Work.

The county parks people see future development in Columbia Park as emphasizing expansion and embellishment of day-use facilities.

(d) Outlook for Bateman Island.

In October 1980, the Benton County Park Board appointed a Citizens' Task Force to recommend a plan for the management and development of the island. The group proposed the following program to the board, which was implemented in April 1982:

• Motorized vehicles will not be allowed on the island for the extended period until April 1985. This restriction will be reviewed and evaluated by the park board at that time. (Exceptions will be emergency, county and Corps service vehicles, and Mid-Columbia Archaeological Society vehicles until their current contract expires.)

• The Corps of Engineers will construct a parking area at the entrance to the causeway.

• The island is a day-use facility. Overnight camping may be allowed by special permission in the picnic area for groups of 25 to 250. A deposit and fee should be required, with the policy and amount set by the park board.

• To prevent illegal archaeological digs, a sign should be posted at the entrance. This would identify the area as mandated by national and state societies.

• Construct hiking and interpretive trails through the use of volunteers.

• Plant food plants for wildlife, with consulting assistance from the state game department.

• Dependent upon demand and need, a new restroom and picnic shelter may be added at a later date. Estimated cost is $50,000 to $60,000, which could be amended to the park cost-share program with the Corps. The old structure can be removed at any time.

The island has been reclassified from intensive recreation to low-density recreation to reflect the change in development and management.

(3) Funding.

(a) Proposed Development.

Benton County is proceeding, on its own, with some elements of the work outlined in the above paragraphs. Full and effective development depends, however, on the joint efforts of the county and the Corps by utilizing the existing cost-sharing contract.

(b) Future Work.

Future development will be funded solely by the park board, or in cooperation with the corps under the existing cost-sharing contract.

n. Riverhaven.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

This site extends along the length of the underground segment of Levee 12-1 on the left bank (north shore) of Lake Wallula, from River Mile 330.5 to River Mile 331.5. It is accessible over local county roads--Sylvester Street and Road 54. Waterside access is available directly from the reservoir to the launching ramp at Road 54, and to private boat docks scattered along the shoreline throughout the length of the site.

(b) Site Description.

This 28-acre area (see photo 9-22) is comprised of a relatively narrow mile-long area of gently sloping shorelands lying in front of an area of private homes. A 12-foot-wide strip running the length of the area along the old service road has been leased to Franklin County to accommodate the bike path. Lawn grass and some trees and shrubs (planted and maintained by adjacent property owners) cover much of the 28 acres. Otherwise, volunteer grasses and miscellaneous forbs cover the ground areas. Surface soils were completely disturbed and rearranged during levee construction.

 
Photo 9-22. Riverhaven is an excellent area for hiking, jigging,
bicycling, and other non-motorized activities

(c) Site Analysis.

Intensive recreation activities will probably never be attempted here because of the intense objections of adjacent residents. Land shapes and spaces are suited to picnicking and associated activities. (To accommodate bike path development to Chiawana Park, other lands have been leased to Franklin County. These include a 12-foot-wide, 2-acre area extending the length of Levee 12-2, and 26 acres extending from Levee 12-2 to Chiawana Park.)

(d) Limiting Factors.

Size and shape of the area, and the nearness of adjacent residential properties, are the principal limiting factors.

(e) Site Use Objective.

The area serves well for hiking, jogging, bicycling, and other non-motorized activities. Boat launching can continue to be accommodated at the west end of the area.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

Development to date consists of an access road, a single-lane launching ramp, random gravel-surfaced car and trailer parking area, and paved bike path (see plate 9-12).

 
Plate 9-12. Riverhaven

(b) Proposed Development.

No development is proposed.

(c) Second Powerhouse Phase.

Various bike path amenities will be developed as part of the levee beautification project.

(d) Possible Future Work.

Restroom facilities and the paving of the access road and parking area will be needed in the future.

(3) Funding.

(a) Proposed Development.

No costs.

(b) Second Powerhouse Phase.

Levee beautification work is to be done as part of the second powerhouse project. No cost sharing will be involved.

(c) Future Work.

Franklin County, as lessee, would be expected to carry the cost-sharing and operational responsibilities.

o. Chiawana Park.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

Chiawana Park (see photo 9-23) is operated by Franklin County. It is located on the left bank (easterly shore) of Lake Wallula, at River Mile 334.3. Vehicle access is available over local county roads. Boat access is possible directly from the reservoir into a small sheltered boat basin, as well as by informal tie-up at points along the shoreline.

 
Photo 9-23. Chiawana Park is mostly flatland that was previously farmed

(b) Site Description.

This 77-acre site is mostly previously-farmed flatland, with gentle to moderate slopes toward the reservoir. The 1.2 miles of immediate shoreline vary from gently sloping at the downstream end to steeply sloping at the upstream end of the site. Soils over most of the area are ample for landscape treatment. The boat basin was created by controlled borrow operations during levee construction. Levee 17A and its outfall channel occupy part of the site.

(c) Site Analysis.

The area has moderate capability for continued use as a local day-use park. The present boat basin is too small to accommodate any significant moorage activity. Some enlargement is possible.

(d) Limiting Factors.

Funding for additional development imposes a limitation.

(e) Site Use Objective.

Continue to provide facilities and setting as an urban waterfront park.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

Present development occupies about 22 acres, and includes paved access road, paved parking area, small sheltered boat basin, two restrooms, picnic facilities (including shelter, trees, lawn grass, and sprinkling system), onsite caretaker, and maintenance building storage yard (see plate 9-13).

 
Plate 9-13. Chiawana Park

(b) Proposed Development.

Development work to be undertaken at Chiawana Park should be directed toward centralizing the day-use activities more in the upstream areas of the park, and toward the enlargement of the boat basin. The tree planting program on the undeveloped areas north of the caretaker's residence should be continued and intensified. Tree locations should recognize future changes in the overall park design, particularly the eventual relocation of the circulatory road away from the shoreline and near the landside boundary. This will free the shorelands for waterside recreational activities.

Arrangements should be considered for the enlargement of the boat basin by beneficial disposal of the gravel in the levee beautification effort.

The bike path should be extended to the upstream end of the park.

(c) Possible Future Work.

As the west Pasco area grows and the population density increases, Chiawana Park will become increasingly important; and expansion and improvement of day-use and boating facilities will be required.

When the market justifies a marina at this location, arrangements should be made to offer lease privileges for such development and services.

(3) Funding.

(a) Proposed Development.

Franklin County, as lessee, is the local agency responsible for cost-sharing and operational functions. No funds, either county or Corps, are currently programmed.

(b) Future Work. Again, Franklin County will be expected to carry cost-sharing and operational function responsibilities.

p. Wye Neighborhood Park.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

This small waterside park (see photo 9-24) is located on the Yakima River backwater behind Bateman Island, at a point opposite Columbia River Mile 334.4. It lies between the causeway to the island and the downstream end of Levee 4A, directly beside the old highway leading to the west entrance to Columbia Park. A single-lane launching ramp affords roundabout access to the reservoir by way of the backwaters on the Yakima River. The park is leased to the city of Richland, and was constructed with cost-shared funds.

 
Photo 9-24. Wye Neighborhood Park is a small waterside park
located on the Yakima River backwater

(b) Site Description.

This 3-acre rectangular site offers about 2 acres of developable land on two small sloping bench areas. The lower bench area is situated 20 to 35 feet above the pool level, while the other is 40 to 50 feet above pool level. The balance of the area is steep and not suited for development.

The upper bench is essentially devoid of vegetation. Some brushy growth occurs on the lower areas, particularly along the shoreline. The existing launching ramp and related parking area occupy less than one-half acre. Soils are of poor quality.

(c) Site Analysis.

The area offers the single-lane launching ramp and slightly more than 1 acre in the upper bench suitable for use as a very small waterside playground park. Perhaps its most significant value lies in its convenient location in relation to residential areas of the locality. It is within walking distance from 50 or more homes directly across the highway, and within 5 or 10 minutes driving time from a large new residential development in the Meadow Springs area to the west.

(d) Limiting Factors.

The site is small, and cannot be expanded. One-third to one-half of the area is too steep for development. It is directly beside a busy arterial street.

(e) Site Use Objective.

Continue its use as a neighborhood playground park.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

The concrete launching ramp, with its small handling dock and associated gravel-surfaced parking, have been in use for a number of years.

Development of the park was completed in 1981. This includes an 18-car paved parking lot, playground equipment, picnic shelter, restrooms, landscaping, irrigation system, paved bike path, and other miscellaneous work (see plate 9-11, sheet 3).

(b) Proposed Development.

No development proposed.

(c) Possible Future Work.

Improved shoreline access is needed. This involves pathway construction and regrading of selected segments of shoreline to create fishing and standing pads.

(3) Funding.

(a) Proposed Development.

All work completed in 1981 was accomplished under a cost-sharing contract between the Corps and the city of Richland. Design Memorandum 29-1, Supplement 1, October 1980, provided justification for funding.

(b) Future Work.

All future work will be cost shared with the city.

q. Amon Park.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

Amon Park (see photo 9-25) is located on the right bank (west shore) of Lake Wallula, at River Mile 338, on city of Richland shorelands. Vehicle access is provided by city streets (Bradley Street, Lee Boulevard, and Newton Street). Boat access is possible utilizing launching ramps at each end of the park, as well as at two short-term tie-up docks.

 
Photo 9-25. Because of flooding hazards at Amon Park, only limited development is possible

(b) Site Description.

Most of this 47-acre site occupies a very flat bench that slopes imperceptibly toward the river, and lies in between the usual water levels of the reservoir and the higher ground of the community. One-third or more of the benchland was developed as a city park prior to reservoir impoundment. Additions were made by the city utilizing the remaining available shorelands. Of the 47 acres, 44 acres are city owned. Only 6.5 acres are owned by the Corps, of which 3 acres are emergent land and 3.5 acres lie below pool level.

About 2.7 acres of the city land is high ground fronting on George Washington Way and Lee Boulevard. This is occupied by the Community Center building, the art gallery, and associated parking areas.

Turf has been planted on the top surface and back slope of Levee 2C, extending about 1,000 feet north from Newton Street. This 2.5-acre area functions essentially as part of Amon Park.

(c) Site Analysis.

The benchland is subject to very infrequent short-term flooding at high river stages. This flooding hazard has some impact on development and use. Soils are stable and adequate for park plantings. Expansion of the park is possible only at the southern or downstream end, where undeveloped city land lies between Amon Park and the municipal golf course.

(d) Limiting Factors.

The flooding hazard requires the use of floodproof structures, and could cause short periods of interrupted usage. Expansion onto the downstream city-owned land appears quite infeasible in light of its commercial potential and consequent high market value.

(e) Site Use Objective.

Continue to serve as an urban waterfront park, with no major improvements or expansion planned.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

Facilities now include access and circulatory roads, parking spaces for 270 cars, launching ramps with 38 car and trailer parking spaces, tennis courts, lighted ball diamond, picnic area, restrooms, wading pool, playground equipment, gazebo shelter, designated bike path (see photo 9-26), and lawn area with trees and sprinkling system (see plate 9-14).

 
Photo 9-26. The paved bike path at Amon Park connects with bike paths in Groves Park

 
Plate 9-14. Amon Park

The paved bike path on top of Levee 2C was constructed in 1981, thereby completing the connection with bike paths in Groves Park.

(b) Proposed Development.

Installation of shoreline tie-up docks.

(c) Possible Future Work.

Some of the roads and parking area pavements need resurfacing and marking. The road and parking at the downstream ramp should be paved and marked. The road and parking at the downstream ramp should be paved and marked. Handling docks are needed at both ramps.

(3) Funding.

The city of Richland is the lessee, and has a 50-year cost-sharing contract.

r. Leslie Groves Park.

(1) Site Information.

(a) Location and Access.

This 2½-mile waterfront park area (see photo 9-27) administered by the city of Richland lies on the right bank (west shore) of Lake Wallula, extending from River Mile 338.9 to 341.4. Vehicle access to the park is provided over city streets to terminal parking areas at five distributed locations within the park. Boat access is possible at one launching ramp at the upstream end, and by informal beach tie-up points along the shoreline.

 
Photo 9-27. Leslie Groves Park is administered by the city of Richland.
Design and development at the park have been severely influenced by flooding hazards.

(b) Site Description.

This park, which is leased to the city of Richland, includes 161 acres of shoreland and 42 acres in an offshore island. It is an elongated shoreline park, varying in width and in its vertical relationship to the reservoir. The downstream areas are lower and more subject to intermittent flooding. Some of the upstream areas are flood free. Terrain throughout the site is generally flat, with gentle to moderate slopes toward the river. Closely spaced residential properties abut the landside boundary of the park throughout its length. There is some natural vegetation, but it is mostly scattered trees and riparian woody growth along the shoreline. The sandy gravely soils are adequate for park plantings.

(c) Site Analysis.

The flooding hazard has influenced park design and development. Low-lying areas have minimum development and emphasis is on the use of natural features. Intensive development is located on higher ground. Patterns of park development and use seem to be effective in minimizing encroachment and control by abutting property owners, thereby assuring that project shorelands are available for public use.

(d) Limiting Factors.

The flooding hazard will continue to influence development and use of the park. The size of the park cannot be easily expanded except by extending intensive development onto the island.

(e) Site Use Objective.

Continue expansion and development to serve as an urban waterfront park.

(2) Site Development.

(a) Existing.

Present development includes access roads at five locations, 191 car parking spaces, a 50-foot-wide launching ramp with 47 car and trailer parking spaces, a picnic area, 5 picnic shelters, 2 restrooms, playground equipment, developed bike path through the length of the park and extending upstream to the Port of Benton, tree and grass plantings, and a sprinkling system (see plate 9-15).

 
Plate 9-15. Leslie Groves Park

(b) Proposed Development.

Development of the park has been generally downstream from the initial facilities at Snyder Road. Development will continue to proceed in that direction with additional restrooms, picnicking areas, swimming beach, and fishing pier.

(c) Possible Future Work.

The island area and extensive segments of the shorelands in the downstream part of the park are to be retained as natural areas, with management efforts directed toward the enhancement of natural values.

Aside from these natural areas, there are still more undeveloped areas that can be developed for day-use purposes as needs may warrant.

(3) Funding.

(a) Proposed Development.

The work currently underway is being done under an ongoing cost-sharing contract between the city of Richland and the Corps. Funds are programmed.

(b) Future Work. Under the continuing cost-sharing contract, the city will carry cost-sharing and operational function responsibilities on all future work.

s. Richland Bend.

This is a 56-acre Franklin County shoreline site at about River Mile 338. It is reserved for future recreational development. It affords opportunity for a small day-use park and launching ramp. The shape of the area somewhat limits development possibilities. About ½ of the space lies in a long, narrow strip extending about 1,300 feet back from the shoreline.

t. Regional Bikeway System.

The need for a regional bikeway system was noted in paragraph 2.05. This need has been the most frequently expressed of all recreational needs. The SCORP studies confirm this need. There are important physical features of the Tri-City area, and significant segments of the reservoir that are unusually suited to bikeway development. The essentially continuous strips of Government-owned shorelands afford the needed right-of-way for bike path development. Also, tops of the levees and, in the lower reservoir area, the abandoned railroad grade afford a sound base for bike path construction with minimum grading work or other preparation. Other stretches of shorelands are in public parks affording right-of-way and, in some cases, park roads that can be incorporated into the system. In terms of sponsorship and funding, there are three categories of bikeways involved in the system:

• those situated within the areas of levee beautification, and funded as part of that effort;

• those on project lands, requiring cost sharing by an appropriate local agency; and

• those lying outside of the McNary Project boundary, which are totally the responsibility of non-Corps interests.

The bikeways vary in nature according to the status of and/or outlook for development. Some are complete and in use, some are programmed for early development, and some are only planned for possible future development along a generally designated route. In addition, there are differences in quality or degree of development:

• ample paved bike paths designed, located, and used solely by pedal bikes;

• bikeways on local roads and city streets that are physically separated from motorized traffic;

• bike lanes where traffic is separated only by lane markings; and

• bike routes where the bikes move and mingle with other traffic along a selected and sign-marked route.

Plate 9-16, sheet 1 and sheet 2 depict bikeway systems on, and associated with, the McNary reservoir.

 
Plate 9-16, Sheet 1. Bike Ways

 
Plate 9-16, Sheet 2. Bike Ways

u. Wallula Gap National Natural Landmark.

(1) Site Information.

"Wallula Gap (see photo 9-28) is a 4,400-acre site located in southern Washington, 16 miles south of Pasco. It is the largest, most spectacular and most significant of the several large water gaps in the Columbia River basin. Floodwaters from melting glaciers drained from the basin through this gap. At the height of one of the floods, the waterflow through Wallula Gap was estimated at 39.5 cubic miles per day, a rate nearly twice the combined flow of all the present rivers on earth."

 
Photo 9-28. Wallula Gap National Natural Landmark must be provided
with the necessary protection to preserve the value of the site

As noted in section 7.04., that part of the landmark designation lying within the project boundary comprises the prime elements of the Gap. Consequently, protection of the geologic formations, the scenic character, and other natural features of the area depends largely on the nature and quality of management exercised on Corps-owned lands.

(2) Site Use Objective.

Recognize the national significance of the area, and provide the necessary protection to preserve the value of the site.

(3) Site Development.

Some fencing has been installed to protect left bank lands in the Gap area from trespass grazing.

The Corps expects to enter into a voluntary non-binding agreement with the National Park Service to formalize the corps commitment to protection of McNary project lands in the area. Given approval by the Washington Highway Department, a roadside turnout will be developed in the vicinity of the Two Sisters, where appropriate informational and historical displays will be installed, including the bronze plaque designating the Wallula Gap area as a National Natural Landmark.

Project boundary fencing will be installed, as needed, to exclude trespass grazing from any of the Corps lands, both left bank and right bank areas.

9.04. Fish and Wildlife Development

a. McNary Wildlife Nature Area.

(1) Location and Access.

This unit is located on the south bank of Lake Umatilla at River Mile 291, between the Umatilla Bridge and McNary Dam. It is accessible from local highways and project access roads.

(2) Unit Description.

This popular wildlife park and nature study area (see photo 9-29) occupies 318 acres of generally flat shorelands, most of which were involved in construction activities during the building of McNary Dam. About 269 acres is land area, with about 49 acres of water area in several borrow ponds and an abandoned fish spawning channel. Heavy riparian growth surrounds the ponds, while dense stands of forbs and grasses abound throughout the area.

 
Photo 9-29. McNary Wildlife Nature Area is a popular area for nature study.
It serves as a wintering/nesting area for many species
of songbirds, upland game, waterfowl, and furbearers.

The nature area provides local fish and wildlife benefits, and receives approximately 150,000 man-days use each year. It provides habitat for warm-water fish and trout; and serves as a wintering and/or nesting area for songbirds, upland game, waterfowl, furbearers, and other wildlife.

Water levels in the nature area remain fairly constant as the use of the abandoned spawning channel isolates the pond area from the effects of power peaking and most seasonal fluctuations in the river. Mosquito control in the area's ponds is achieved through the use of mosquito fish.

Existing development includes water control facilities, access roads, vault toilets, parking areas, vehicle barriers, foot trails, signs a self-guided nature trail, photo blinds, plantings of trees and shrubs, stocking of mosquito fish, and the stocking of rainbow trout.

Future development of the nature area will be affected by the construction of McNary second powerhouse. When the powerhouse is built, it will disturb the southeastern corner of the unit. To mitigate this loss, it has been proposed to construct additional ponds in the northwest corner of the unit. The permanent water source will also be provided by increasing the length of the artificial channel (see plate 9-17).

 
Plate 9-17. McNary Wildlife Nature Area

(3) Unit Objectives.

Provide breeding habitat for waterfowl.

Provide and maintain diversity in plant communities that support a species richness indicative of faunal communities in the Columbia Basin.

Protect and improve wetlands within the unit in accordance with Executive Order 11990.

(4) Implementation.

In the event that McNary second powerhouse is built, construct new ponds in the northwestern part of the unit, encourage riparian vegetation, maintain nature trails, and construct additional waterways through the unit.

b. Horse Heaven HMU.

(1) Location and Access.

Horse Heaven HMU (see photo 9-30 and plate 9-18) is located immediately upriver from McNary Dam on the right bank, and extends from River Mile 292 to River Mile 295. Access to the unit is via an unimproved road that branches off from a project access road.

 
Photo 9-30. Horse Heaven Habitat Management Unit provides nesting and escape cover
for songbirds, and provides perching areas for raptors

 
Plate 9-18. Horse Heaven HMU

(2) Unit Description.

This 246-acre unit is a narrow strip of land, most of which is inland of the Burlington Northern Railroad right-of-way. The predominant vegetative cover type is sagebrush and cheat grass, with a few trees on the land south of the railroad. Two small impoundments surrounded by trees are near the U&I pumping plant located at the western end of the unit. Three canyons terminate in the upper end of the unit.

Existing trees provide nesting and escape cover for songbirds, and provide perches for raptors. The sagebrush and cheat grass community supports good populations of small mammals and birds, which serve as prey for raptors. The shoreline serves as protective cover from adverse weather for wintering waterfowl.

(3) Unit Objectives.

Provide nesting opportunities for birds.

Improve foraging opportunities for raptors.

Provide habitat for wintering waterfowl.

(4) Implementation.

Plant cottonwood, willow, white alder, blackberry, and common elderberry along the shoreline. Install raptor perches and nest boxes.

c. Cold Springs HMU.

(1) Location and Access.

Cold Springs HMU (see photo 9-31 and plate 9-19 is located on the south bank of the Columbia River, immediately upriver from Hat Rock State Park at, River Mile 299. Access is available from a partially paved gravel road branching off from U.S. Highway 730.

 
Photo 9-31. Cold Springs Habitat Management Unit is located on lands allocated for recreation use,
but only the eastern area is used for that purpose

 
Plate 9-19. Cold Springs HMU

(2) Unit Description.

This unit is actually on land allocated for recreation. However, only the eastern portion is developed and used for intensive recreation. The fenced western portion is managed for wildlife, and is open to foot traffic only.

The 127-acre unit contains sandy beaches, a wetland area, and several islands. Although the largest vegetative community is sagebrush-cheat grass-bitterbrush, along the shoreline areas there are some Russian olive, cottonwood, and other trees and shrubs that provide nesting habitat for songbirds. The wetland lies in the center of the unit and supports breeding waterfowl, wading birds, and other wetland-associated wildlife species. The islands are located in the downstream part of the unit, and provide nesting habitat for Canada geese.

(3) Unit Objectives.

Coordinate the maintenance and improvement of wildlife habitats with recreational activities.

Maintain and enhance wetland habitats. Provide a roosting and feeding area for raptors.

Improve habitat for upland game.

Provide nesting sites for geese and songbirds.

(4) Implementation.

Locate the fence designating the "foot traffic only" area to protect important wildlife habitats from off-road vehicle traffic. Thin dense stands of Russian olive to increase use by wildlife. Establish food plots to provide forage for wildlife. Maintain the channel between the mainland and the islands to limit predation on goose nests on the islands. Provide additional ponds or potholes in the wetland to increase use by waterfowl. Place nest boxes in trees to provide additional nesting sites for songbirds, and erect raptor roosts throughout the unit to provide roosting and hunting perches for raptors.

d. Juniper Canyon HMU.

(1) Location and Access.

Juniper Canyon (see photo 9-32 and plate 9-20) lies adjacent to U.S. Highways 730 and 395, on the south side of Lake Wallula, at River Mile 305. It is accessible by highway shoulder- and off-shoulder parking upstream and downstream from the Juniper Canyon Bridge.

 
Photo 9-32. Juniper Canyon Habitat Management Unit contains a small embayment of the reservoir

 
Plate 9-20. Juniper Canyon HMU

(2) Unit Description.

This unit contains a small embayment of the reservoir that has been nearly filled in with sediments deposited by the intermittent storm runoff flows in Juniper canyon. Riparian growth on the sediment deposits covers most of the bottom of the canyon. The open water area encompasses about 11 acres. Lands surrounding the embayment are mostly steep slopes covered with sagebrush, cheat grass, rabbitbrush, and a few scattered junipers. The quarry area on the west side of the embayment is sparsely vegetated with rabbit brush.

The riparian vegetation and the wetland area support a variety of wildlife, and provide nesting habitat and winter cover for many species. The drier hillsides support typical dryland species such as western kingbird, chukar, and western meadowlark. The unit also serves as a foraging area for raptors.

Previous development of this unit has been mostly confined to fencing. The wetland and remaining water area have been fenced to provide a defined livestock watering corridor.

(3) Unit Objectives.

Maintain and improve the wetland/riparian community to provide habitat for waterfowl and songbirds.

(4) Implementation.

Fence the unit boundary to prevent trespassing livestock grazing. Vegetate the quarry area west of the embayment. Install guzzlers to provide water for upland game and other wildlife. Create ponds in the riparian area to provide waterfowl habitat. Provide nest boxes for cavity nesting birds.

e. Yellepit Fishery Management Unit.

(1) Location and Access.

This unit (see photo 9-33 and plate 9-21) is located on the right bank of the reservoir, extending from River Mile 308 to River Mile 310, and from River Mile 314 to River Mile 315. Road access is available only at the extreme upriver end. Boat access is available along the riprapped shoreline.

 
Photo 9-33. Yellepit Fishery Management Unit consists of five separate ponds, surrounded by steep slopes

 
Plate 9-21. Yellepit Fishery Management Unit

(2) Unit Description.

This 372-acre unit consists of five ponds surrounded by steep slopes and cliffs. Vegetation is sparse, and is mostly grass with some trees and shrubs around the ponds. The unit is bordered on the riverside by riprapped embankment of the Burlington Northern Railroad. The Wallula Gap National Natural Landmark separates the two portions of the Yellepit unit.

Wildlife use centers around the ponds and cliffs. The ponds and their associated riparian vegetation are used by fish, waterfowl, and songbirds. The cliffs are used for nesting and roosting by raptors.

Possible development of this unit is minimal due to the steep slopes and the railroad. However, planting of some trees and shrubs around the ponds, as well as the construction of boat landings along the riprap are planned.

(3) Unit Objectives.

Provide riparian habitat on pond shorelines, and protect raptor nesting areas.

Provide public fishing opportunities.

(4) Implementation.

Establish riparian species such as cottonwood, white alder, and willow around Yellepit and Switch Ponds to provide cover for wildlife and shade for fish. Improve access for fishing recreation by constructing boat landings on the river.

f. Mouth of the Walla Walla River HMU.

(1) Location and Access.

This unit (see photo 9-34 and plate 9-22 extends from Columbia River Mile 314 to 315, and is accessible from U.S. Highways 12 and 395. This unit is the parcel of land on the riverside of the Union Pacific Railroad track.

 
Photo 9-34. Mouth of the Walla Walla River Management Unit
provides feeding and nesting areas for waterfowl

 
Plate 9-22. Walla Walla River HMU and Mouth of the Walla Walla River HMU

(2) Unit Description.

This unit consists mainly of a delta built from sediment deposited by the Walla Walla River as it enters the Columbia River. This delta will continue to build as topsoil erodes from the fields bordering the Walla Walla River and its tributaries. Most of the vegetation on the delta consists of willow and cottonwood. A narrow strip of land covered with rabbitbrush, sagebrush, and cheat grass extends northward from the delta.

(3) Unit Objectives.

Provide feeding/resting areas for waterfowl.

Provide public waterfowl hunting opportunities.

(4) Implementation.

Seed the developing mudflats with bulrush and sedges for waterfowl use. Improve parking areas for hunter access.

g. Walla Walla River HMU.

(1) Location and Access.

Walla Walla River HMU (see photo 9-35) extends from the Union Pacific Railroad tracks at River Mile 314 on the Columbia River to River Mile 9 on the Walla Walla River. The northern boundary is near the Union Pacific Railroad and Burlington Northern Railroad tracks. The southern boundary is along U.S. Highway 12. Access to the unit is gained from several points along U.S. Highways 12 and 395.

 
Photo 9-35. Walla Walla River Habitat Management Unit
offers opportunities for public hunting and fishing access

(2) Unit Description.

This unit consists of about 1,468 acres of land and 428 surface-acres of water. Much of the west side of the unit was a large embayment when McNary reservoir was filled. However, most of the embayment has been filled by sediments from the Walla Walla River watershed. Only two heavily vegetated ponds remain. Much of the silted area now supports dense stands of black cottonwood and willow. The remaining land is covered with a mixture of sagebrush, rabbitbrush, and cheat grass, or is sharecropped.

The southwest corner of the unit is maintained by the Corps as part of Madame Dorion Park. The remainder of the unit is managed under a license between the Corps and Washington Department of Game. The unit provides wintering habitat for waterfowl; and supports populations of deer, upland game, and a variety of non-game species. The unit offers important public hunting and fishing opportunities.

(3) Unit Objectives.

Maintain habitat for waterfowl and upland game.

Maintain riparian vegetation and associated wildlife.

Provide fishing and hunting opportunities.

(4) Implementation.

Construct a fence to exclude grazing livestock. Install gallinaceous guzzlers to provide water for upland game and other wildlife. Establish food plots for wildlife. Maintain a constant water level in the two ponds. Develop islands in the larger pond to serve as waterfowl nesting sites. Reroute the northern access road so that it shares the same intersection with U.S. Highway 12 as the entrance to Madame Dorion Park to eliminate a dangerous intersection. Create small ponds conducive to use by waterfowl and other wildlife. The Corps and state will jointly manage the unit under present license format.

h. Columbia River HMU.

(1) Location and Access.

This large unit (see plate 9-23) on the east bank of the reservoir extends from River Mile 315 to the mouth of the Snake River at River Mile 325. Vehicle access is available from U.S. Highways 12 and 395 at the Two Rivers area and Casey Pond.

 
Plate 9-23. Columbia River HMU

(2) Unit Description.

Included in this management unit are 1,388 acres (this includes the Ady site) of land, and 4,400 acres of water area. The unit extends into the river to include adjacent offshore islands. All the lands are flat and generally low-lying, with light sand soils and vast areas that were previously cultivated farmland. Extensive stands of riparian growth have developed along the shorelines since pool impoundment. There are three mainland areas: the old Two Rivers School area, the Burbank Peninsula, and the shoreline west from Burbank near the mouth of the Snake River. Badger Island, Foundation Island, Two Rivers Islands, and several smaller islands are associated with the shorelands. The Casey Pond area lies between the highway and the railroad. Quarry Pond lies at the upriver end of the Two Rivers School area. Most of the offshore waters are shallow.

The Two Rivers area and the Burbank Peninsula offer valuable upland game and waterfowl hunting opportunities. Duck hunting occurs on both areas, and Canada geese are hunted along the peninsula. Quarry Pond and Casey Pond are favorite fishing sites of local anglers. Quarry Pond is annually stocked with fry and legal-size rainbow trout. Badger and Foundation Islands are major Canada goose nesting areas. Foundation Island also supports rookeries of great blue herons and black-crowned night herons.

The first development in this area was the construction of several subimpoundment dikes prior to filling of the reservoir. Some of these dikes failed, but most were effective. Access and parking have been developed at Casey Pond and Quarry Pond, and some areas are fenced (mostly railroad right-of-way fencing). Extensive efforts have been directed toward habitat improvement: food crop production, control of noxious weeds and aquatic growth, the control of non-game fish, creation of ponds (potholes), mosquito control, development of cover for wildlife, and construction of goose nesting platforms. Proposed work includes the continuation and extension of past efforts including fencing, dike construction, maintaining potholes, and other habitat improvements.

(3) Unit Objectives.

Provide food, cover, and nesting areas for waterfowl and upland game.

Create opportunities for fishing and hunting.

Maintain great blue heron and black-crowned night heron colonies.

(4) Implementation.

Develop food plots for wildlife. Protect nesting meadows. Maintain access and parking areas for sportsmen. Control disturbance to areas supporting heron colonies. Although this unit is currently under license to Washington Department of Game, the license format enables the Corps to jointly manage lands with the state.

i. McNary National Wildlife Refuge.

(1) Location and Access.

The McNary National Wildlife Refuge (see photo 9-37 and plate 9-24) consists of three parts: Burbank Slough, which lies on the northeast side of U.S. Highways 12 and 395 opposite River Mile 320 through River Mile 325; Strawberry Island, located at River Mile 4 on the Snake River arm of the reservoir; and Hanford Islands, located at River Mile 341 through River Mile 350 on the Columbia River. Access to the Burbank area is available from U.S. Highways 12 and 395, State Highway 124, and local county roads. Access to the island areas is by boat only.

 
Photo 9-37. McNary National Wildlife Refuge consists of Burbank Slough, Strawberry Island, and Hanford Islands.
All three areas provide nesting, wintering, and brooding habitat for waterfowl.

 
Plate 9-24. McNary National Wildlife Refuge

(2) Unit Description.

(a) Burbank Slough.

This part of the refuge has 2,056 acres of land and 626 acres of water. The land area is flat with some gently sloping areas. Soils are light and sandy. Extensive areas are being farmed intensively for wildlife food production.

The water area is about 5 miles long and ¼-mile wide at its widest point, and contains scattered small- and medium-sized ponds with generally irregular shorelines and numerous small islands. Shoreline areas of these ponds have been planted with bulrush and sago pondweed to provide food for waterfowl. A water control structure was built prior to the reservoir impoundment to isolate about 4 miles of the water area from the main reservoir. This allowed control of water levels in the slough independent from main reservoir water level fluctuations and partially prevented the entry of non-game fish.

(b) Strawberry Islands.

This part of the refuge is actually two islands separated by a narrow band of water. The predominant vegetation is sagebrush, grass, rabbitbrush, and forbs. There are a few stands of trees and shrubs, mostly on the western island. The islands are undeveloped, and serve as nesting sites for Canada geese.

(c) Hanford Islands.

These islands are generally flat and low-lying, and grass is the predominant vegetation. Wildlife use of the islands is mostly by avian species. Mourning doves and killdeer nest on the islands. Canada geese nest on Islands 15 (Wooded Island), 17 (Johnson or Kapt Island), 18, 19, and 20. There are California and ring-billed gull colonies on Island 18, along with a forster's tern colony. Island 20 also has a ring-billed gull colony. Wooded Island (Island 15) and Islands 17 to 19 are managed as part of McNary National Wildlife Refuge through cooperative agreement between the Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Development on these islands has been confined to signing. Island 16 is accreted land, and is claimed as state property by Washington State Department of Natural Resources.

(3) Unit Objectives.

Provide waterfowl nesting, wintering, and brooding habitat, as well as habitat for non-game birds.

Provide fishing and waterfowl hunting opportunities.

(4) Implementation.

Construct fences to define boundaries, exclude livestock, and control traffic. Install a new water control structure to regulate water levels independent of the reservoir. Control non-game fish to protect waterfowl food plantings and provide improved fishing. Provide access and parking to sportsmen. The unit is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through a cooperative agreement with the Corps.

j. Toothaker HMU.

(1) Location and Access.

The Toothaker HMU (see photo 9-38 and plate 9-25) is located on the right bank of the reservoir at River Mile 320. Access is via Toothaker and Meals-Yellepit Roads.

 
Photo 9-38. Toothaker Habitat Management Unit has a problem with trash dumping
because of its easy access and relative seclusion

 
Plate 9-25. Toothaker HMU

(2) Unit Description.

The unit includes 347 acres of land and 93 surface-acres of water, including one fairly large and several small ponds. The terrain is flat throughout the unit, and only slightly above the water level in the reservoir. Major segments of the shoreline are covered with dense thickets of Russian olive, all of which have developed since reservoir impoundment. The Burlington Northern main line railroad runs along the shoreline portion of the unit. Toothaker Road runs through the unit near, and parallel to, its eastern boundary, affording convenient and direct access throughout the length of the unit. A significant trash dumping problem is present on this unit because of the east access and relative seclusion. This dumping may increase with the development of the Port of Kennewick Hover Site, which currently supports more dumping than Toothaker.

This unit has the potential to be an important site for waterfowl, upland game, and non-game species. The development of a new pond as part of the mitigation for Hover port site development should increase the unit's use by waterfowl. The development of food plots, brush piles, and guzzlers will enhance upland game use. Thinning the dense stands of Russian olive will increase their use by wildlife.

(3) Unit Objectives.

Provide habitat for waterfowl, upland game, and songbirds.

(4) Implementation.

Use fencing or other means to limit vehicle access to the unit. Thin dense stands of Russian olive to increase their use by wildlife, and create brush piles to provide cover for upland game. Establish and maintain nesting meadows for pheasants. Establish food plots for upland game and songbirds. Develop small ponds for waterfowl habitat.

k. Burbank Heights HMU.

(1) Location and Access.

This site (see photo 9-39 and plate 9-26) is located on the south shore of the Snake River arm of Lake Wallula, extending from River Mile 4.5 to River Mile 8. Road access exists only at the west end of the unit over an unimproved road extending from the paved county road.

 
Photo 9-39. Burbank Heights Habitat Management Unit includes a 3¼-mile shoreline and several small islands.
Wildlife habitat must be improved in this area

 
Plate 9-26. Burbank Heights HMU

(2) Unit Description.

This unit includes 276 acres in a 3½-mile-long strip of shoreland and several islands. Some of the shoreline is gently sloping, while some is narrow and steep. Rural low-density housing occupies lands adjacent to the downstream part of the area. This type of development is progressing upstream. The downstream 1½ miles of the area offer some flat low-lying shoreland situated on the riverside of the old Bureau of Land Management irrigation intake canal. This and the islands offer most of the wildlife values. Woody thickets and other riparian growth are abundant along the old canal and the associated reservoir shorelands. The rest of the area is mostly narrow, steep terrain, with minimum wildlife values. Currently, the area offers somewhat limited habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife. The wildlife values of this unit can be improved and expanded.

(3) Unit Objectives.

Provide Canada goose nesting sites.

Maintain habitat for songbirds.

Provide access for fishing.

(4) Implementation.

Install a vehicle entry control (gate) at the road access to the unit with a parking area beside the gate. Shape the dredge island, and seed with grasses and legumes. Establish food plots to provide food for upland game and songbirds.

l. Yakima River Wildlife Natural Area.

(1) Location and Access.

This management unit (see photo 9-40 and plate 9-27) occupies land on both sides of the Yakima River arm of the reservoir extending from the mouth to River Mile 6.5 of the Yakima River. The downstream south bank area is accessible directly from U.S. Highway 12 in the vicinity of the Amon Wasteway. North bank areas are accessible from Richland city streets and undeveloped roads.

 
Photo 9-40. Yakima River Delta Wildlife Nature Area occupies land on both sides of
the Yakima River arm of the reservoir. The City of Richland has leased
a portion of the area classified as low-density recreation.

 
Plate 9-27. Yakima River Delta Wildlife Nature Area

(2) Unit Description.

The area contains 1,090 acres of land, including 14 acres of ponds. A 272-acre north bank segment of this area has been leased to the city of Richland, and is classified for low-density recreation. It is included as part of this wildlife management unit because its character and use are the same as the other 818 acres, and because no development has as yet been undertaken by the city. The unit is mainly river floodplain land supporting extensive stands of woody riparian growth, most of which is Russian olive. Residential areas of Richland lie immediately north of the unit. Some residential development is present on the high ground to the south and just outside of the south bank project boundary that parallels the Columbia Irrigation District (CID) Canal. A branch line railroad crosses the eastern part of the unit. A large sand and gravel processing plant borders a part of the leased north bank land area. The I-182 bridge across the Yakima River is being constructed across Corps land at River Mile 4.5.

Recently, wildlife habitat on the southeastern portion of this unit was developed and improved. This included the clearing of Russian olive, seeding of food plots, providing vehicle control and parking, installing signs, and developing a 1½-mile nature trail. Future development will include additional tree clearing, seeding, vehicle control, and parking areas.

(3) Unit Objectives.

Provide goose brooding areas.

Provide nesting cover for songbirds.

Provide food for wildlife.

Provide for interpretive use by the public.

(4) Implementation.

Control vehicular access, and provide parking lots and interpretive trails. Install goose nesting platforms and pastures for goose brooding. Develop food plots to provide food for upland game and songbirds. Developments on lands leased to the city of Richland will be the city's responsibility.

10.01. Purpose of Criteria

10.02. The OCE and Other Corps Criteria

10.03. Published Professional Guidelines

• Handbook of Landscape Architectural Construction, edited by Jot D. Carpenter, project director Gary O. Robinette, published by Landscape Architecture Foundation, 1976.

• Park Practice Program (including Guidelines, Grist, Trends, and Design), published by National Conference on State Parks, National Park Service, and National Recreation and Park Association.

• Marinas--Recommendations for Design, Construction, and Maintenance by Charles A. Chaney, published by National Association of Engine and Boat Manufacturers, Inc., Second Edition, 1961.

10.04. Manuals of Other Agencies

10.05. Health and Safety Standards

10.06. Some Criteria Specific to McNary

11.01. Previous Treatment

11.02. Port Terminal Frontage

a. Port of Umatilla.

The total frontage available to the Port of Umatilla is considered inadequate to serve the port's market area. Additional waterfront land should be made available to the port, both in fee and in easements. There is also an opportunity to partially rectify this condition by careful design and layout of additional land areas to be created by spoil disposal from the second powerhouse excavation.

The Johns-Manville PVC pipe fabrication plant, which has no plans for shipment by barge of either incoming or outgoing products or to otherwise utilize the navigation features of the project, would have been more properly located further away from the shoreline, leaving the land that the plant now occupies available for some water-dependent development. This example should stimulate more critical review of future port actions.

The 5,500 feet of frontage on the John Day pool, downstream from the mouth of the Umatilla River, has some developmental problems, notably offshore shallows. The landside space is limited, and should be reserved for those types of industrial uses requiring close association with the water. However, a major portion of this site is included within the boundaries of the Umatilla archaeological Site recently submitted for placement on the National Register of Historic Places.

All of this shows the need for an effective resource management program aimed at encouraging efficient development by the port, and requiring complete compliance with the intent and purpose of Section 108 of Public Law 86-645.

b. Port of Walla Walla.

The environmental constraints imposed on possible and necessary development at the Ady and South Burbank barge terminal sites are effectively preventing use of the lands for the purposes for which they were sold to the Port of Walla Walla. This condition is not only unfair and frustrating to the Port, it is precluding full realization of the navigation benefits afforded by the project. A possible solution is suggested in paragraph 9.02. This or another effective solution to the problem should be diligently pursued by the corps. Such resolution of the problem would assure continuing protection of important wildlife resources. (Note: The Burbank site was actually sold under a special law--Public Law 85-130, 71 Stat. 346, dated 14 august 1957--which preceded, and in a manner set the stage for, the passage of Public Law 86-645.)

11.03 Commercial Boat Marinas

11.04. Quality of Small Boat Access, Handling, and Tie-Up Facilities

Small boat operators attending the public workshops noted recurring needs for the improvement of operating conditions at boat access points, especially at Charbonneau Park on the Ice Harbor pool.

• Shallow water areas at ramps, handling docks, and tie-up docks present operational hazards and limit or preclude the use of the facilities, particularly by fixed-keel sailboats and larger motor boats. Recurrent dredging of shoreline sediment deposits is needed at some locations.

• Finger or tie-up docks are desired at various locations along the Columbia and Snake Rivers.

• Wind protection is needed at some boat access and tie-up areas.

• Protective fenders or bumpers are needed at some tie-up docks and handling docks. Cleats are needed at some tie-up docks.

12.01. Conclusions

Since completion, there have been extensive and varied developments, with wide and frequent public use, of the resources and facilities at the McNary Project. It has, however, a fairly well-balanced division of lands and resources among the different functions and uses. There is no apparent need for major and far-reaching changes. There are, however, a number of conditions and problems that need attention. The order in which they are listed indicates their priority.

• Levee beautification work at an early date is urgently desired by the local people, and proposals are offered.

• At several of the developed recreation sites, minor expansion and the rehabilitation of existing facilities are needed, and proposals have been made.

• The wildlife habitat and wetlands areas offer very important values to the people of the region. Their character and quality are improving with time and effective management. Additional habitat improvement measures (i.e., nesting platforms, boundary fencing, and food plot development) are needed, and have been proposed.

• A regional bikeway system is uppermost in the minds of local planners and the general public, both in the Tri-Cities and in the Irrigon-Umatilla-McNary area; and should be accomplished under local cost-sharing agreements and levee beautification development.

• Relief is needed at the Port of Walla Walla North Burbank site to allow needed development, and to avoid the destruction of wildlife and aquatic values of the Ady and South Burbank sites.

• The conditions at the Port of Umatilla need to be addressed in a realistic manner, with a view toward the ultimate development and use of the industrial frontages they now have.

• Boater destination parks are desired by boaters of the region, and can be developed with a minimum of effort and expenditure.

• There is a need for commercial boat marina services in the lower pool area, but the present market is less than that needed to support an economically-viable operation.

12.02. Recommendations

This master plan for McNary Dam and Reservoir (see photo 12-1) is intended for use by all Corps personnel involved in the planning, design, construction, and management of project resources and their utilization by the public. It should serve as the basis for preparation of design memoranda covering development work where Corps funds are involved. It offers guidance for the review and approval of plans by non-Corps interests desiring to do work on project lands. It is intended as a basic reference and guide for use by reservoir managers and other field personnel.

 
Photo 12-1. McNary Lock and Dam

Section 2 - Regional Description and Analysis

¹All quotations and associated data on economic factors in 3 are taken from: Morrow County Economic Statement and Umatilla County Economic Statement, both February 1979 by East Central Oregon Association of Counties.
²Ibid.
³Ibid.
⁴Ibid.
⁵Ibid.
⁶Washington State Department of Commerce and Economic Development, 6-74-2M.
⁷Ibid.
⁸Washington State Department of Commerce and Economic Development, 83-2-72-5M.
⁹Ibid.
¹⁰Ibid.

Section 3 - McNary Project Description

¹Umatilla Rapids project, Oregon and Washington, Bureau of Reclamation Department of the Interior, Report on Investigations 1923, 24, E.R. Croker, Associate Engineer.
²McNary Final Environmental Impact Statement, April 1976, pages 1-9 and 1-10.

Section 4 - McNary Project Resource Inventory

¹McNary Final Environmental Impact Statement, April 1976, page 2-15.
²Ibid., page 2-23.
³Includes Port of Pasco's original terminal, which operated prior to creation of McNary Reservoir. Facilities were modified to fit on top of the levee.
⁴Ibid.