Blue Mountain Forests' Monitoring Report - FY 98

Section M - Malheur National Forest

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

MONITORING ITEMS NOT REPORTED THIS YEAR

SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDED ACTIONS

FOREST PLAN MONITORING ITEMS

Item 1 Developed Recreation
Item 3 Trail System
Item 6 Wilderness
Item 7 Wild and Scenic Rivers
Item 8 Cultural and Historic Site Protection
Item 9 Visuals
Item 10 Resident Fish Habitat
Item 11 Anadromous Fish Habitat
Item 12 Dead and Defective Tree Habitat
Item 14 Old Growth Habitat
Item 15 Proposed, Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Specie
Item 16 Raptor Nest Sites
Item 30 Water Resources
Item 32 Soils Resources
Item 33 Minerals
Item 34 Road Mileage and Open Road Density

ACCOMPLISHMENTS

FOREST PLAN AMENDMENTS FOR FY 98

 

 

 

LIST OF TABLES

Table M-1 Trail Maintenance
Table M-2 Range Utilization within NF Malheur W&S Corridor
Table M-3 Stream Temperatures within NF Malheur W&S Corridor
Table M-4 Range Utilization within Malheur W&S Corridor
Table M-5 Stream Temperatures within the Malheur W&S Corridor
Table M-6 Archaeological and Historic Site Summary
Table M-7 Road Densities by Major Watershed
Table M-8 Forest Accomplishments - FY 98

 

MONITORING ITEMS NOT REPORTED FOR FY 1998

A few Monitoring Items from the Malheur Forest's 1995 Monitoring and Evaluation Plan were not reported in FY 1998. Some items only need to be reported every few years in order to detect trends. Other items were purposely deferred pending updated monitoring protocols or direction, and some were deferred due to lack of funding. Some items not found in this section were reported in Section C, the coordinated monitoring items.

Monitoring Items that were not reported for any of the above reasons discussed above include the following:

The Summary Of Recommended Actions, beginning on page M-3, shows all Malheur Monitoring Items and whether they were deferred, consolidated with the other Blue Mountain Forests (Section C of this Monitoring Report), or reported in this Section.

NOTE: Even when a Monitoring Item is reported, it may not be addressing all the Monitoring Questions from the 1995 Monitoring Plan.

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS AND ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN

The table on the following pages summarizes for the Malheur National Forest the key findings and the recommended actions to be taken as a result of this year's monitoring. A more complete discussion of each monitoring item can be found later in this section or in the Coordinated Monitoring Section (Section C).

It is assumed that monitoring will be continued with all monitoring items in the future, although not all will be reported every year. Categories of recommended actions are identified in the table as follows:

Change Practices (CP) - Indicates that the results of current practices are outside the thresholds of variability and/or are not meeting specific direction set by the Forest Plan. A change in practice or procedure may be needed.

Further Evaluation (FE) - Indicates that results may or may not have exceeded the threshold of variability, but additional information or evaluation is needed to better identify the cause of the concern and/or determine future actions.

Amend Forest Plan (AP) - Indicates that results are inconsistent with the Forest Plan, or the Forest Plan direction was not clear. The Forest Plan may need changing or clarifying through the amendment or revision process.

Continue Monitoring (CM) - Indicates we will continue with the current scheme.

Not Evaluated (NE) - Not evaluated in FY 1998

Summary of Recommended Action
¨ 1998 Monitoring Report ¨
Malheur National Forest

 

Report
Section

 

MI#

 

Monitoring Item (MI)

 

1997 Action

1998 Recommended Action

 

Remarks

Change Practice

Further Eval.

Amend Forest Plan

MAL 1 Developed Recreation

CM

X

    Public seems generally satisfied with the Forest's recreation facilities. Use collected fees to upgrade and maintain campgrounds in FY 99.
DEF 2 Dispersed Recreation

NE

      Deferred for FY 97 and FY 98.
MAL 3 Trail System

CM

      All summer trails were maintained to standard. 79% of winter trails were maintained.
DEF 4 Semi-Primitive Recreation Setting

NE

      Deferred for FY 97 and FY 98.
DEF 5 Off-Highway Vehicle Use

NE

      Deferred for FY 97 and FY 98.
MAL 6 Wilderness

CM

      Need to complete the Levels of Acceptable Change and the capacity study for determining outfitter needs.
MAL 7 Wild and Scenic Rivers

CM

X

    Most Wild and Scenic characteristics and standards are being met. Make range administration a high priority.
MAL 8 Cultural and Historic Site Protection

FE

X

    13 out of 203 monitored sites were damaged.
MAL 9 Visual Resources

NE

X

    Management practices other than timber sales need monitoring.
MAL 10/11 Resident and Anadromous
Fish Habitat

CM

      Best Management Practices are generally being implemented.
DEF 12 Dead and Defective Tree Habitat

NE

 

X

  Surveys indicate we are not meeting standards in many areas.
DEF 13 Big Game Habitat

NE

      Deferred for FY 97 and FY 98.
DEF 14 Old Growth Habitat

NE

 

X

  Analyses show adjustments are needed.
MAL 15 Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Species

CM

X

    Limited implementation monitoring occurred.
MAL 16 Raptor nests

FE

X

X

  Goshawk nesting areas are being protected per Regional Forester's Amendment #2. Limited implementation monitoring of other species occurred.
COORD 19 Range Allotment Status

NE

 

X

  2 AMPs were completed on the Forest in FY 98. 9% of active allotments with AMP's are Forest Plan sufficient.
Accomp Report 20 Range Improvements

CM

      Reported in Accomplishments Table M-8.
COORD &
Accomp Report
21 Range AUMs, Utilization, and Condition

CM

      92% of the monitored pastures met standards; the Forest is not funded to monitor all pastures. Need to emphasize effectiveness monitoring for utilization standards in riparian areas.
COORD & MAL 22 Managing Competing and Unwanted Vegetation

CM

      The Forest treated 78 acres of noxious weeds this year, primarily through manual means. Other elements of competing and unwanted vegetation were not reported in FY 98.
DEF 23 Timber Suitability

NE

      Deferred for FY 97 and FY 98.
COORD 24 Silvicultural Practices

NE

      First year survival was 81% for ponderosa pine.
COORD 25 Reforestation

CM

 

X

  Five year surveys show 92% of 9,221 acres were adequately stocked.
COORD 26 Timber Harvest

CM

 

X

X

Timber harvest acres remain well below Forest Plan projections, with silvicultural methods shifting towards uneven-aged management and commercial thinning. A Forest Plan adjustment will be needed following completion of ICBEMP.
COORD 27 Timber Offered

CM

 

X

X

Timber offered remains well below Forest Plan projections. Outputs will need to be re-evaluated after the completion of ICBEMP.
COORD 29 Insects and Disease

CM

      Insect levels have increased during the past year. Continue to monitor.
MAL 30 Water Resources

CM

 

X

  Stream temperatures were monitored at 77 locations across 8 watersheds. Data has not yet been analyzed. BMP implementation on stream buffers on the Summit Timber Sale was 100% compliant after checking and remarking.
COORD 31 Air Quality

CM

      Prescribed burning met Forest Plan Standards.
MAL 32 Soils Resources

CM

X

    Two monitored prescribed fires showed effects were within Forest Plan standards. Three units showed subsoiling fully met objectives.
MAL 33 Minerals

CM

      All four active mining operations covered by plans of operation met Forest Plan standards.
MAL 34 Road Mileage and Open Road Density

CM

X

    Road construction remains below Forest Plan Projections. Open road densities meet standards except in Silvies watershed.
DEF 35 Administrative Facilities

NE

      Deferred for FY 97 and FY 98.
COORD 36 Fire

CM

      Natural fuels treatment by fire totalled over 21,000 acres. No natural ignitions were allowed to burn.
COORD 37 Program Budgets, Expenditures, and Accomplishments

FE
AP

 

X

X

Deferred for FY 98.
COORD 38 Costs and Values

FE/AP

 

X

X

Deferred for FY 98.
COORD 39 Local Income

FE/AP

 

X

X

Deferred for FY 98.
COORD 40 Local Employment

FE/AP

 

X

X

Deferred for FY 98.
COORD 41 Payments to Counties

FE/AP

 

X

X

Deferred for FY 98.

 

 

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 1  (top)
Developed Recreation

Questions: Are existing developed recreation facilities accommodating recreation demand? Are developed recreation facilities meeting customer expectations and desires?

Existing facilities are meeting current recreation demand. There were 20 campgrounds provided for in the Forest Plan, and 19 were available for use in FY 98. Beech Creek Campground was closed a few years ago due to a very high number of hazard trees. It is unlikely that it will be opened in the future because of low demand. Also, removing all the hazard trees would probably result in a small clearcut, which would not be appealing to campers.

Informal use surveys were conducted at campgrounds periodically during the late spring, summer, and early fall months. The surveys showed an occupancy rate of approximately 69 percent at the most popular campgrounds--Magone Lake, Strawberry, and Big Creek. This is a decrease from the 1997 average occupancy rate of 71 percent for the same campgrounds. These three campgrounds are of the nine fee campgrounds on the Malheur National Forest included in the fee demo program, implemented in 1998. The decrease in occupancy rate is suspected to be due to the collection of fees at these campgrounds. The other campgrounds showed an occupancy rate of approximately 45 percent which is higher than the occupancy rate of 43 percent shown in 1997. This is suspected to be due to shifting use from campgrounds that are now fee campgrounds to those that are not.

Based on the data collected, it appears the existing campground facilities are accommodating recreation demand, but some are approaching their capacity at certain times of the year.

Most customer expectations are being met, especially at the non-fee campgrounds. As free campgrounds become fee campgrounds, customers expect a higher standard of services. Comments received on comment cards at the campgrounds show that customers paying fees expect trash cans to be available, more contacts with Forest Service personnel, and facilities such as water pumps that are easier to pump or toilets that are more accessible. Fee-paying customers also want potable water; they prefer not to dry camp. Sampling methods for this item included informal discussions with developed recreation site users and responses on comment cards, available at the campgrounds.

Most comments were positive for the operation and maintenance of the campgrounds on the Malheur National Forest. Compliments were received on the following items:

· Clean toilets
· The Romtec toilets
· A good campground host
· Campgrounds
· The level of improvements
· The handy location of some campgrounds
· Mountain bike trails and nearby trails
· The beautiful natural setting of several campgrounds
· Shelter from the wind
· Fewer cattle around two campgrounds
· Wildlife
· Improved road to one campground

However, complaints were received on the following:

· The toilets in one campground smelled
· Toilets are located too far away from some camp sites or from a trailhead
· Toilets are not very accessible
· Not enough tent spaces at one campground
· Not enough or no drinking water (and still having to pay a fee to stay at the campground)
· Water pump at one fee campground is too difficult to use
· More water sources needed at picnic area and beach
· Horse facilities are not maintained or are only suitable for one user
· Heavy cattle use around a campground exclosure
· No trash cans at fee campgrounds
· Campsites are dusty and should be gravelled
· Campsites need to be leveled
· Few to no handicapped accessible campsites at campgrounds with accessible toilets

Some negative comments received that are somewhat outside the Forest's ability to correct were as follows:

· Magone Lake beach is too crowded.
· Low water levels due to drought, subsurface leaks, and leaking dams in lakes adjacent to two campgrounds.
· Poor water quality (high levels of plant growth) at one lake (pond) due to low water levels.
· Accessible fishing facilities being useless when the water level is too low.

More drive-through trailer sites and larger parking sites for RVs and trailers were repeated suggestions. A need for more parking in the day-use area of one campground with a popular trailhead was also identified by recreation users, especially for numerous trailers and RVs. Others mentioned a desire for a large-group site in two campgrounds, including room for hunters with wall tents. There is a demand for more campsites in Little Crane Creek Campground during hunting season. Many recreationists do not want to see any (more) changes at nine campgrounds, although the public would also like to see potable water at fee campgrounds.

Generally, the public seems satisfied with the management and maintenance of recreation facilities on the Forest. Public acceptance of the fee demo program at the campgrounds was better than expected. Most people did not mind paying a fee if their money went back into the campground. Low funding levels for recreation management continues to limit the Forest's ability to make some of the improvements desired by recreating visitors, and limits ability to do thorough use surveys and customer surveys. However, even without adequate customer surveys, the Forest recognizes the need to make improvements in management and maintenance as funding allows. At low funding levels, the priority is to correct public safety hazards, rather than investing in large scale facility improvements.

The Forest replaced approximately 20 toilets this year and charged fees under the fee demo program at 9 campgrounds. This will allow the Forest to maintain 80 percent of the collections on the Forest to upgrade facilities in 1999.

Recommended Actions:

Continue to monitor.

Improve the campground operation and maintenance by using collected fees to upgrade and maintain our campgrounds.

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 3   (top)
Trail System

Question: How many miles of trail were maintained, constructed, and reconstructed for each type of trail that exists on the Forest?

Approximately 906.7 miles of trails were maintained on the Forest in FY 98.

Table M-1
TRAIL MAINTENANCE
Malheur National Forest

TYPE OF TRAIL

TOTAL MILES OF TRAIL

MILES MAINTAINED IN FY 98

MILES CONSTRUCTED/ RECONSTRUCTED IN FY 98

Wilderness

133.6

133.6

Reconstruct 5.9

All-purpose (hiking, horse,
mtn biking, and motorized use)

46.9

46.9

Reconstruct 9.3

Non-motorized

79.9

79.9

Reconstruct 7.6

Foot-only (non-wilderness)

5.2

5.2

Construct 0.4

Barrier-free
(handicapped accessible)

2.5

2.5

 
Mountain bike

223.1

223.1

 
Snowmobile

502.5

397.5

 
Cross-country ski

8.0

8.0

 
TOTALS

997.4

906.7

 

All summer trails were maintained in 1998. Because of the reporting methodology, the Forest did not distinguish if they were maintained to standard or not to standard. Approximately 79 percent of the winter trails were maintained, however, many trails are located on roads that received maintenance during the summer. Winter trail maintenance may not be to standard. Due to 10 percent funds, allowed approximately 30 percent of back log maintenance items to be completed on wilderness trails.

Approximately 7.6 miles of Malheur River Trail and 9.3 miles of Squaw Rock Trail were reconstructed, along with 5.9 miles of Pine Creek trail. Approximately 0.4 mile of a new interpretive trail was constructed. Preconstruction was accomplished for the Malheur Ford trailhead. NEPA is planned for completion on Riley Creek Trail reconstruction, Squaw Rock trailheads, and Craft Cabin Trail.

While Forest Plan projections for trail construction and reconstruction are not being met, some work is being accomplished on the higher priority projects with the funding the Forest received through the 10 percent funds.

Recommended Action:

Recreation Staff Officer will develop a standardized reporting format for trail maintenance.

 

 MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 6  (top)
Wilderness

Question: What is the current level of public acceptance and expectations regarding the current wilderness conditions?

The sources of information about the current level of public acceptance and expectations regarding wilderness conditions include verbal comments made in the office and to wilderness rangers in the field, as well as letters and comments on Visitor Registration Cards.

Strawberry Mountain Wilderness: No comments were received regarding air quality. Several comments regarding "no cows in wilderness" were received. It is not clear if the authors encountered cows in the wilderness or if it was a general comment. Comments were received about the amount of soil movement and loss of streamside vegetation along Indian Creek and Onion Creek following the 1996 Wildcat Fire. Tree mortality in the southeast section of the wilderness drew some comments. In regards to the issue of prescribed natural fire, the Forest received comments that varied from full support of the program to no support for fires during the summer months or in scenic areas visible to the John Day Valley. There were comments made about the loss of big game cover/habitat, and native and sensitive anadromous fish habitat in the Indian Creek subwatershed. Some people were very concerned about the impact to the scenery from the fire. Some negative comments were also received about the private logging adjacent to the wilderness boundary near Graham and Roberts creeks.

No concerns were received about camp sizes or locations, except for large camps set up prior to hunting seasons. Comments were received about users leaving camps too trashy. Users have the expectation that camps can be built anywhere and that they can have campfires at all times. The visual aspect of having boats and float tubes on the lakes has been identified as an issue. Concerns have been raised about float tube users kicking up soil on the bottom of the lake and leaving the water cloudy for hours afterwards. Visitors have expressed concern over the grazing of most of the forage at the small meadows near lakes, as well as over some hitching practices. There is a concern about the unauthorized use of mountain bikes on trails and ATVs and vehicles accessing the wilderness via old roads or mining roads. The rule prohibiting strollers in the wilderness also drew comments. Some hikers are concerned about others cutting switchbacks near Strawberry Campground.

There are concerns when trails are closed for safety purposes because users are sometimes inconvenienced by trail closure. There were several mixed comments regarding the new Slide Connector Trail #386. Many horse users felt the trail was dangerous for horses due to the bridge at the start of the trail, the narrow, steep portions of the trail that made horse packing almost impossible, and the fact that there was no connector trail to Strawberry Campground (they would have to ride their horses up/down the gravel road to make a "loop"). Other users felt the trail was great - no problem for horses at all. Compliments were received on the Slide Connector horseback trailhead facilities. There were comments that the trails needed maintenance sooner, immediately after the snow melts off. There were complaints about Onion Creek Trail (it's steep, poorly marked, hard to find in the snow, hard to find in the meadows). Comments were also received that the Forest should spend less time on the trail to Strawberry Lake and more time on Onion Creek trail. Compliments were received regarding trail maintenance on Strawberry Basin trail and on the new road surface to Strawberry Campground. There are requests for more horse facilities at trailheads (adequate parking and turnarounds, individual corrals, and a stock watering source within 100 yards).

There is high public acceptance for the Forest Service "presence" during the summer use season. Many people using the wilderness during this time are from outside the area and already practice some form of satisfactory wilderness ethics. There appears to be less acceptance of wilderness values by some local users. Some of the most significant problems are the use of ATVs, vehicles and snowmobiles on Baldy Mountain, caching of rafts (especially near Strawberry Lake), caching of camps and supplies at various locations, and tethering horses to trees in camps and on trails.

Monument Rock Wilderness - No comments have been received about air quality, soil retention, fish and wildlife, prescribed natural fires, or scenery. The public has expressed concern about the amount of fuel loading in the Little Malheur River drainage, and the high risk of catastrophic fire due to lightning. Compliments were received about the limited livestock use at Bullrun Spring, but there were some concerns that hunters had put stock in the exclosure and overgrazed the vegetation. Negative comments were received about sheep in the wilderness and how they affect big game (generally) and sheep use around Rock Springs (specifically). Positive comments regarding the sheep use in other areas of the wilderness were also received. Favorable comments were received about a new fence that eliminated livestock along the lower 1.5 miles of the Little Malheur River.

No comments were received regarding camp sites or locations. Some visitors have expectations that camps can be built anywhere. Concerns have been expressed over recreational livestock grazing all the forage at small meadows (i.e., Bull Run and Rock Springs).

Both Wildernesses: Visitors feel generally favorable about trail condition, length, number, and destination. Comments were received about horses leaving manure on trails and breaking down the trail tread. Some folks want to have trail names on the wilderness map. More signs in the wilderness that give distances to destinations are desired by some users; however, putting up additional signs would mean that we would not meet Forest Plan standards for signing in the wilderness. Some users have requested being able to hire outfitters/guides for services such as drop camps and hunting, and some outfitter/guides have requested permits to conduct services. There were no comments from the public on the backpacking outfitter/guides permit issued for the Strawberry Wilderness in 1998.

There is high public acceptance for the Forest Service "presence" during the summer use season. Many of the wilderness violations (i.e., use of motorized vehicles, use of game carts, chain saw used to cut firewood/clear late season blow down, leaving trash) tend to occur during hunting season, when contact with wilderness rangers or law enforcement officers is very low.

No formal monitoring for public acceptance and expectations of wilderness experiences was done, but we did receive many informal comments, as discussed above, which gave some fairly reliable information. Most responses can be dealt with by the wilderness rangers and receptionists if they are properly trained. Some of the comments are good information that can be used by the manager responsible for wilderness areas in work planning for the following year. There is a need to emphasize wilderness patrols for the education and enforcement of wilderness values during hunting season. Due to low funding, it is unlikely that the Forest will be able to have as many wilderness patrols as needed.

Recommended Actions:

Complete the Levels of Acceptable Change (LAC) and the capacity study for determining the need for Outfitters and Guides.

Emphasize having wilderness patrols during hunting seasons.

 

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 7 (top)
Wild and Scenic Rivers

Question: Are the free-flowing characteristics, water quality, and outstandingly remarkable values of Designated Rivers being protected and enhanced in a manner consistent with the standards and guidelines of the Forest Plan?

Specific questions relating to the values are from the River Management Plans.

NORTH FORK MALHEUR SCENIC RIVER MANAGEMENT PLAN

Are scenic values being maintained in project implementation?

No projects such as timber harvest, prescribed burning or road construction have occurred in the area this year.

Are scenic values being enhanced in the river segment?

No projects were undertaken that would enhance the river's scenic values, due to lack of funding for any type of project work. Higher priority work is being conducted outside the Wild and Scenic River corridor.

Are old growth characteristics being maintained consistent with desired conditions?

No quantifiable surveys have been done to validate the desired conditions but existing characteristics are being maintained. Natural processes are being allowed to work except fire is still being suppressed and some human activities may have some effects. A fire, possibly started by recreationists, was suppressed with light hand on the land techniques in late fall.

Is forage utilization within standards?

In most cases, forage utilization is meeting the standards. Inspections in the riparian areas located within the corridor for each allotment/unit showed the following:

Table M-2
RANGE UTILIZATION WITHIN THE
NORTH FORK MALHEUR RIVER WILD AND SCENIC CORRIDOR

Malheur National Forest

Spring Creek: North River Unit Meets standard
  South River Unit Meets standard
  River holding Meets standard
  Bucktrough Meets standard
  Elk Flat Unit Meets standard
North Fork: North River Unit Meets standard
  South River Unit Meets standard
Flag Prairie: River Unit Meets standard
Ott: Rattlesnake Unit Meets standard

A few negative comments about livestock use were reported. One dealt with the presence of livestock in the Crane Crossing area near the campground. Although a fence normally excludes livestock from the camping area, the permittee is still allowed to have livestock in the unit for two days while he moves his cattle from east to west across the allotment. The complaint was received after the cattle had been in the area for two days. Another comment came from a hiker using the trail after cattle were trailed off of the Flag Prairie River unit. The hiker complained about manure on the trail. A follow-up inspection to review his concerns, and phone call with more information was well received. The third comment came from the USFWS during their fall bull trout tour. They would like to see less use of riparian vegetation in the Crane Creek confluence area and up Crane Creek itself. They had compliments for the other sections of river seen during their tour.

How are riparian elements of desired future conditions (DFCs) changing through time?

Elements of streambank stability, increased shading, and shrub composition are variable due to livestock and big game use. They are improving in some areas and declining in other smaller areas (<15% of the total riparian area of the grazing unit) with concentrated livestock/ungulate use. Sedimentation, embeddedness, herbaceous and tree canopy are remaining static. A Challenge Cost Share (CCS) survey for bull trout migration and identifying spawning areas was conducted this summer and should be available from the District or SO fisheries departments. Information about the use of cold water refugias which was collected in FY 97 is still not available.

What are water temperatures within the drainage?

Water temperature data were collected on a representative number of streams influencing the river from May/early June through mid-November. The State standards for streams with bull trout is 50°F or lower and without bull trout is 64°F. The distance from the Wild and Scenic River boundary varies as indicated below. Days exceeding the 7-day maximum standard are represented.

Table M-3
STREAM TEMPERATURES WITHIN THE
NORTH FORK MALHEUR RIVER WILD AND SCENIC CORRIDOR

Malheur National Forest

Stream

Maximum
Temperature
°F

Temperature Standard

Days Exceeded
50°F
Temperature

Distance From
Corridor

Sheep Creek

56.1

50°

0

200 ft.

Lower Crane Creek

69.8

50°

42

600 ft.

Upper NF Malheur River

60.8

50°

0

within

Lower NF Malheur River

74.3

50°

107**

within

Elk Creek

54.5

50°

79

500 ft.

Note: All of the above streams have bull trout so the 50°F standard applies. (The 64°F standard is shown for reference.)
**Temperatures exceeded 50°F when monitor was installed.

What are stream sediment and turbidity levels?

This element was not monitored in Fiscal Year 1998.

What other pollutants are present within the river?

No formal sampling surveys were conducted. Seasonal pollutants of fecal coliform (cattle and other ungulates) occur. Minor incidental pollutants from users' wash water, and oil and gas pollutants from vehicles using the bridge and river ford crossings may also occur.

MALHEUR WILD AND SCENIC RIVER MANAGEMENT PLAN

Are scenic values being maintained in project implementation?

Yes. The reconstruction of the Malheur River Ford and Trailhead was designed by the District Landscape Architect (LA) and reviewed by the Forest LA. The project entailed moving the trailhead sign and trail to the west out of the meadow. Future proposals include moving the toilet uphill, adding barrier rocks for parking control, enhancing the ford, and adding a barrier free site. No concerns were received about livestock use at the Malheur Ford.

Are scenic values being enhanced in the river segment?

See comments above.

Are old growth characteristics being maintained consistent with desired conditions?

No quantifiable surveys have been done to validate the desired conditions but existing characteristics are being maintained. Natural processes are being allowed to work except fire is still being suppressed and some human activities may have some effects. A fire, possibly started by recreationists, was suppressed with light hand on the land techniques in late fall.

Is forage utilization within standards?

Yes, see the following table for inspection results in the riparian areas located within the Corridor for each allotment/unit.

Table M-4
RANGE UTILIZATION WITHIN THE
MALHEUR RIVER WILD AND SCENIC CORRIDOR
Malheur National Forest

Star Glade:

South Unit

Meets standard

Dollar basin:

Dollar Unit

Meets standard

Bluebucket:

Rock Springs

Meets standard

 

Cougar Unit

Meets standard

No concerns were received about livestock use at Malheur Ford.

 

How are riparian elements of desired future conditions (DFCs) changing through time?

Elements of streambank stability, increased shading, and shrub composition are variable due to livestock and big game use. They are improving in some areas and declining in other smaller areas (<15% of the total riparian area of the grazing unit) with concentrated livestock/ungulate use. Sedimentation, embeddedness, herbaceous and tree canopy are remaining static.

A Challenge Cost Share survey for bull trout migration and identifying spawning areas was conducted this summer and should be available from the District or SO fisheries departments. Information about the of cold water refugias which was done in FY 97 is still not available.

What are the water temperatures within the drainage?

Water temperature data were collected on a representative number of streams influencing the river from late May through mid-November. The State standards for streams with bull trout are 50° F and 64° F for streams without bull trout. The distance from the Wild and Scenic River boundary varies as indicated in the following table:

Table M-5
STREAM TEMPERATURES WITHIN THE
MALHEUR RIVER WILD AND SCENIC CORRIDOR
Malheur National Forest

Stream

Maximum
Temperature
°F

Temperature Standard

Days Exceeded
50°F Standard

Distance From
Corridor

Upper Malheur River
(Malheur Ford)

77.0

50°

76

within

Lower Summit Creek
(at Larch Creek)

78.8

50°

88

2.5 miles

What are the stream sediment and turbidity levels?

This element was not monitored in Fiscal Year 1998.

What other pollutants are present within the river?

No formal sampling surveys were conducted. Seasonal pollutants of fecal coliform (cattle and other ungulates) occur. Minor incidental pollutants from users' wash water, and oil and gas pollutants from vehicles using the river ford crossing may also occur.

Most Wild and Scenic characteristics, qualities, and values are being protected in a manner consistent with the standards and guidelines in the Forest Plan. However, there is room for improvement in regards to high water temperatures and range utilization in selected locations. Also, enhancement projects have not been implemented due to lack of funding.

Recommended Action:

Continue with monitoring and make range administration a high priority.

 

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 8   (top)
Cultural and Historic Site Protection

Question: Are the unevaluated and eligible cultural resource sites being protected so as to not compromise their potential National Register eligibility?

Two hundred and three (203) archaeological and historic sites were monitored in 1998. This is seven percent of the approximately 3,000 known National Register eligible and undetermined sites on the Forest. Thirteen (6%) of the monitored sites showed some degree of impact by human activities (4 timber harvest related, 3 grazing related, 2 looting/vandalism, 4 recreation). None of these impacts were significant enough to adversely affect those aspects of the sites which make them eligible or potentially eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. This is similar to the results reported during 1997 with the exception that no sites were adversely impacted by wildfire like the eighteen historic structures lost or damaged during the Summit Fire.

Table M-6
ARCHAEOLOGICAL AND HISTORIC SITE SUMMARY

Malheur National Forest

year # of sites monitored # of sites impacted # of sites adversely effected effect = timber harvest effect = wildfire / suppression effect = grazing effect = looting vandalism effect= recreation effect= natural erosion
1998 203 13 0 4 0 3 2 4 0
1997 232 29 18 4 18 4 1 1 1
National Register eligible or undetermined sites 1997-1998

Recommended Action:

Coordinate future monitoring with Wallowa-Whitman and Umatilla National Forests.

 

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 9   (top)
Visuals

Question: Are the Visual Quality Objective (VQO) standards being met?

One timber sale within a visual corridor, with a visual quality objective of Partial Retention, was monitored in 1998. Portions of the timber sale were planned with the intent to mimic natural openings. The remaining ponderosa pine and tamarack/larch were to be highlighted while still meeting timber management needs. Units were laid out in a square shape with designated areas of trees of less thinning with the intent that the remaining trees would break up the overall geometric shape.

During a winter monitoring trip, it was apparent that the shape of the square unit was highlighted due to the contrast between the snow covered ground and the surrounding dense vegetation. The trees that were left were predominately tamarack/larch which lose their needles in the winter. The leave trees were not effective in breaking up the geometric shape of the unit. A summer trip to the same area shows that the leave islands were successful in breaking up the geometric shape of the unit. Other effects of logging were not obvious as a helicopter was used to log the unit.

In summary, the area monitored does meet the visual quality objective of Partial Retention, as outlined in the Malheur NF Land and Resource Management Plan during the summer months. During winter months, depending on the amount of snowfall, these units may not meet Partial Retention, due to the angular geometric shape and the ineffectiveness of the leave islands of tamarack/larch trees.

Recommended Action:

In addition to monitoring timber sales, monitor other practices within visual corridors such as prescribed burning, road maintenance practices and recreation improvements.

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 10   (top)
Resident Fish Habitat

Questions: Are standards and Guidelines for Non-Anadromous Riparian Areas and related BMP's being applied in MA 3A and MA 14 as directed by the Forest Plan? Is the base line data being collected and analyzed for all proposed projects in MA 3A? Are site-specific desired future conditions being established for resident fish habitat?

Standards are being applied. Burns Ranger District did enter some RHCA's to rehabilitate some declining aspen stands. Prairie City Ranger District reported that Standards and Guidelines were being applied in Timber Sale implementation primarily by avoidance. With cattle grazing, meeting riparian management objectives is more difficult and is not typically achieved. Many of the MA 3A areas are experiencing slow recovery due to overgrazing or trampling by cattle. On Bear Valley Ranger District, small project decision memos dealing with fish and wildlife restoration, range spring developments, and KV enhancement projects are applying standards and guides established under the Interim INFISH Strategy. Analyses were conducted on 11 spring sites, 2 range fence projects, one special use permit renewal, one ODFW stream monitoring weir project, 2 silvicultural post sale treatments, 1 KV project and one prescribed fire project.

Burns Ranger District did 24 miles of level II stream surveys and 60 miles total. Prairie City Ranger District conducted 8.8 miles of bull trout spawning in cooperation with the Burns Paiute Tribe and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Locations of bull trout and redds were recorded and entered into GIS. Region 6 Level II surveys are being done as part of all timber sale analyses. Additional stream surveys are done on non-fish bearing streams with a technique developed by district personnel. Bull trout movement was monitored by tracking radio tagged fish with telemetry in the summer and fall. This information will be used to better define their habitat.

On Bear Valley Ranger District, existing data on inland projects provided the necessary baseline needed for analysis of the FY 1998 projects. No new surveys were conducted this past season. The Bear Valley District has 10 miles of inland streams left to survey under the Regional protocol.

Watershed analyses include recommendations describing the desired conditions of the watershed.

Recommended Action:

Coordinate the future monitoring strategy with the Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests.

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 11   (top)
Anadromous Fish Habitat

Questions: Are standards and Guidelines for Anadromous Riparian Areas and related BMP's being applied in MA 3B and MA 14 as directed by the Forest Plan? Is the base line data being collected and analyzed for all proposed projects in MA 3B? Are site-specific desired future conditions being established for anadromous fish habitat?

Prairie City Ranger District reported that Standards and Guidelines were being applied in Timber Sale implementation primarily by avoidance. With cattle grazing, meeting riparian management objectives is more difficult and is not typically achieved. Most of the MA 3A areas are experiencing very slow recovery of continued declines due to overgrazing or trampling by cattle.

On Bear Valley and Long Creek Ranger Districts, small and large project analyses are applying PACFISH standards and guidelines established under the Interim Strategy. Bear Valley conducted analyses on one prescribed fire (ongoing), one road improvement project (ongoing), two recreation projects, a land exchange project and one small timer sale. Bear Valley also has one large timber sale and one range AMP analysis nearly complete. Long Creek Ranger District reviewed all projects taking place in bull trout waters to ensure compliance with PACFISH and to conference with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Long Creek also worked on small sales, road projects, spring development and fence projects, two underburns and a land exchange

Burns did not do any stream surveys because of limited funding. Prairie City Ranger District conducted spawning surveys two times in Clear Creek. Locations of bull trout and redds were recorded. Region 6 Level II surveys are being done as part of all timber sale analyses. Additional stream surveys are done on non-fish bearing streams with a technique developed by district personnel. Sixteen and one-half miles of riparian vegetation surveys on Bear Valley RD needed for upcoming AMP's were done along with 6.5 miles of Hankin and Reeves Surveys on Long Creek RD's Bear Creek.

Watershed analyses include recommendations describing the desired conditions of the watershed. Bear Valley worked on Upper Silvies, Long Creek worked on the Upper Middle Fork of the John Day with Prairie City and on the Galena Ecosystem Analyses. Movement towards desired future conditions is occurring with riparian planting and protection on Summit and with road restoration projects in the Murderer's Creek subwatershed.

Recommended Action:

Coordinate the future monitoring strategy with the Umatilla and Wallowa-Whitman National Forests.

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 12   (top)
Dead and Defective Tree Habitat

Question: Are the number and distribution of snags, replacement trees, and down logs, prescribed in site-specific planning efforts being retained following management activities?

Dead wood inventories were conducted on two fire salvage sales on the Malheur National Forest, the Jordan Spring Salvage Sale (Burns Ranger District) and the Summit Fire Recovery Project (Long Creek/Bear Valley Ranger Districts). Snag retention levels for Jordan Springs was set at 125 percent potential woodpecker population level (PPL) and all live trees were to be retained in order to provide future snags. There was no snag data for pre-fire or pre-salvage operations. Post-salvage percent PPL was 100 percent in 5 units monitored. Biologists assumed that dead wood within the RHCAs would supplement this shortfall. Within the Summit Fire Project trees necessary to meet Standards were marked as leave trees. Several units had marked trees felled for safety concerns. Where possible similar trees were substituted. At this time approximately 50 trees were felled with no replacement trees designated. This shortfall has been documented yet is not considered significant due to the size of the burn and the numerous snags being retained that exceed Standards.

On the Prairie City Ranger District, 13 units within the Genesis demonstration area (Raven and Snake Timber Sales) were monitored for dead wood. The units had post-harvest data available and had prescribed burning completed or planned (Snake 57). The intent of the survey was to determine the effects of prescribed burning on downed dead wood retention requirements. The relative number of snags and green replacement trees were also noted but not tallied. All units were surveyed with transects after treatment. Six of the 13 units did not meet the downed log requirement of 3 pieces per acre*. Snake 57 had six pieces per acre pre-burn. Post-burn monitoring has not occurred in this unit. Snags and green replacement trees did not appear to meet Standards following sale activities. Due to shortfalls in snags some green trees were girdled with the intent of providing snags in the short-term and downed logs in the future.

*Genesis was planned prior to the Regional Forester's Amendment #2.

As part of the Silvies Canyon Watershed Assessment (Burns Ranger District) dead wood surveys have been conducted on 3 percent (158 acres) of the forested stands within the watershed. Average snags per acre greater than 12" dbh were 1.47. Only 15 percent of the stands surveyed are meeting snag Standards. Downed wood levels were 3.85 pieces per acre on average and 67 percent of the stands surveyed met Standards.

Pre-project surveys for downed wood on the Parasol Vegetation Project (Burns Ranger District) reported only 11 percent of the area meets Standards. Green tree retention did meet guidelines to ensure long term snag and downed wood Standards. Monitoring and requirements to meet Standards following harvest are included in the EA.

Recommended Action:

Coordinate future monitoring with Wallowa-Whitman and Umatilla National Forests.

 

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 14   (top)
Old Growth Habitat

Question: Are dedicated old growth areas providing suitable habitat for MIS, including meeting distribution patterns of these species? If not, are site specific planning efforts analyzing and prescribing needed changes to improve the situation, including moving and /or modifying areas to provide suitable habitat when needed? Are these changes or prescriptions maintained following management activities?

To insure that designated old growth areas (DOGs) best meet old growth definitions and characteristics and that each designated area has an identified replacement old growth (ROG) that has the capability of providing old growth habitat in the future. Monitoring and analysis is conducted through the project level evaluation process.

Currently, DOG 2031 and 2044 on the Burns Ranger District do not have designated ROG's. Additionally one DOG does not meet Regional old growth definitions and is not providing suitable MIS habitat. DOG 2031 will be relocated to a 378 acre area that meets the regional old growth definitions. Of the 473 acres currently designated as DOG 2031, only 46 acres meet the regional old growth characteristics. ROG areas for both the "new" DOG 2031 and DOG 2044 will be designated. These ROG areas will be treated by prescribed burning and pre-commercial thinning to promote old growth characteristics and structure.

These actions, relocating of DOG 2031, designating ROGs, pre-commercial thinning, and prescribed burning, all have the following objectives: 1) reduce the number of small understory trees that are competing with the large overstory trees, or 2) increase the growth of residual trees so that they can grow larger more quickly and begin to function as late and old structure sooner, or 3) preserve the stands that have late and old structure. These activities would increase the long-term sustainability of the Late and Old forest stands in the area. The "new" DOG 2031 and ROGs will be monitored after treatments as directed in the EA. This will be done by photo points and wildlife transects. A monitoring report will follow shortly afterwards.

Within the Clear Timber Sale Area on Prairie City Ranger District analysis indicated that three DOGs and associated ROGs needed attention. One DOG was moved to a new location and a ROG was designated. The "new" DOG was moved to an area that had a greater component of large trees. Downed wood is low within the "new" DOG and a decision was made to fell some medium sized trees to provide more habitat for American marten. Completion of the log falling is dependent on funding in 1999. Two other DOGs and ROGs had boundary adjustments. Adjustments were made so that boundaries follow forested stands and roads. MIS habitat was improved by increasing the size of the DOGs and ROGs.

Recommended Action:

Continue monitoring.

 

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 15   (top)
Proposed/Threatened/Endangered/Sensitive Species

Question: Are protection and enhancement measures for proposed, threatened and endangered species prescribed in site-specific planning efforts implemented as described?

Bald Eagles - Active roosts and nests are monitored yearly and have written management plans.

The Rattlesnake Bald Eagle Roost stand (Burns Ranger District) was showing signs of being over stocked. Many of the larger ponderosa pine trees, trees used as roost trees by the eagles, were beginning to die off. To ensure the prolonged life of these large trees, stocking reduction needed to be done. The District's silviculturist created a thinning prescription specifically for this eagle roost and this prescription was carried out by District personnel. Fifteen acres of the Rattlesnake bald eagle roost were identified for thinning. Approximately 20 acres were thinned and piled. 1999 bald eagle roost counts will help determine what effect this activity had on eagle use of the roost site. These counts occur in March of each year.

The Scotty and Trio Timber Sales on Long Creek/Bear Valley Ranger Districts had a winter haul past a winter bald eagle roost. Timing restrictions were applied to prevent disturbance to roosting eagles. This was monitored in 1998. The haul restriction was violated on two days (log trucks hauling past the roost during restricted hours). This may have occurred at other times when the site was not being monitored. The contractor was contacted by the sale administrator to stop the violation.

Peregrine Falcons/Canadian Lynx - No site-specific plans were implemented that included potential peregrine falcon habitat. There have been no conferences with the USFWS for lynx habitat in 1998.

Questions: Is management of proposed, threatened and endangered species across the Forest meeting Forest Plan Standards and goals and objectives of recovery plans? What is the population and distribution status and trend for these species?

Bald Eagle Nest and Winter Roost Monitoring - The South Silvies bald eagle nest site (Burns Ranger District) is a recently (1991) documented nest in SE Oregon. Nesting/breeding activity was observed in April 1991, and two young were fledged in July 1991. Continued monitoring of this nest indicate that this eagle pair has a strong site fidelity to this nest. These birds are known to have a nest there for the last 8 years (1992-1998) and have been successful at rearing young 6 out of 8 years. In 1995 and 96, nesting was attempted but no young were produced. On May 21, 1998, occupancy and possible incubation was determined during a site visit by district wildlife biologists. A follow-up visit was conducted on June, 30 1998, to determine if and how many nestlings were present in the nest. During this visit, one fully feathered nestling was observed perched in the nest tree near the nest platform. Based on these observations, this breeding territory is considered successful for 1998.

Several communal winter roost sites have been identified on the Malheur National Forest with the majority occurring on the Burns Ranger District. Roost sites are still being discovered and vary as to location and use, according to food supply and availability of roost trees.

Bald eagle winter roosts have been monitored in the Harney Basin for several years as part of a joint effort between the Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon State University, Bureau of Land Management, and many local partners. In 1998, partners have played an important part in assisting Burns District wildlife personnel perform surveys.

1998 National Wildlife Federation and Oregon Midwinter Bald Eagle Count

Morning mid winter bald eagle counts at the Coffeepot observation point identified a total of eleven (7 adult, and 4 immature) eagles flying out from the Coffeepot roost on January 8th. This number represents 19 percent of all eagles observed during the 1997 midwinter count and a 42 percent decrease of last year's mid winter roost count. 1997 was a record year with 19 eagles counted. The eight year average for the coffeepot roost is 6.75 eagles (range 19 - 1). When the 1998 count is compared to the eight year average and with the last eight years of data an upward trend is observed. A point of interest is that the Rattlesnake roost, some 1.5 miles to the NE, from the Coffeepot roost, had 25 eagles in 1998 and only three eagles in 1997. This may be showing that the eagles using these two roosts switch between roost from year to year or maybe even day to day.

1998 Harney Basin Coordinated Bald Eagle Counts

This year counts were conducted from 16 historical observation sites, with each being counted one day a week, for four consecutive weeks beginning late February. Evening counts are conducted on ten sites and morning counts are done on the remaining six. Morning eagle counts at the Coffeepot observation point (one of two known active roost sites on the Burns ranger district) revealed a high for the year of 46 eagles flying out from the roost on March 18 and a total of 120 eagles flying from the roost during the survey period. This number represents a decrease of 26 percent over last year, but is still greater than the eight year average (12% increase over 1996). Rattlesnake and Coffeepot drainages continue to hold over 50 percent of the eagles during peak counts and during the entire survey period for the Harney Basin.

Peregrine Falcons/Canadian Lynx - There has been no management specific to lynx or peregrine falcons. Mitigation to maintain habitat is included in site-specific plans where suitable habitat exists. Population and distribution status is unknown for these species. Lynx sightings have been reported on the Prairie City Ranger District.

Question: Are Biological Evaluations being prepared and enhancement measures for sensitive species prescribed in site-specific planning efforts implemented as described?

All planning efforts are in compliance with the NFMA and biological evaluations are written for all ground or vegetation disturbing activities. Many planning efforts contain activities specifically designed to enhance sensitive species habitats, and if necessary, mitigation measures are used for other activities that do not enhance habitats.

The Malheur National Forest recognizes that aspen stands, a habitat type used by Preble's shrews as well as management indicator species and many other animal species, are declining across the Region. A continuing effort is being made to document and enhance these aspen stands whenever possible. Ongoing monitoring efforts will, hopefully, demonstrate the effectiveness of these treatments. On the Burns Ranger District the Parasol Vegetation and Watershed Management Project has 28 acres of aspen rehabilitation of which one objective is to improve habitat conditions for Preble's Shrews. In addition, the Badger Timber Sale will treat 23 acres of aspen stands in 1999, and it is planned to rehabilitate a total of 143 acres in the next five years. An additional 28 acres of aspen stands had conifer removal to promote aspen regeneration, eleven acres were fenced, and 20 cages installed to protect aspen regeneration.

Two, 300 bat capacity, bat roost boxes were installed under the 31 road, Silvies River Bridge this summer to provide more habitat for a variety of bats. These will be monitored at least once every summer.

To help meet snag density objectives for management indicator species on the Burns Ranger District four trees were girdled in Lems Ideal Timber Sale area. Ninety six ponderosa pine trees were released from competition by falling all < 15"dbh trees within the drip line in the following timber sales: Frost, West Myrtle, and Mosier. These trees also had their positions GPSed and they along with an addition 81 trees (177 in all) will be part of a snag inoculation project being conducted on the Burns Ranger District in cooperation with PNW-La Grande lab. Inoculation is scheduled to occur in 1999.

Prairie City Ranger District conducted implementation monitoring for upland sandpipers in Logan Valley. A project to reduce lodgepole pine encroachment on the meadow has resulted in cutting trees in 1998. Slash burning is proposed for 1999.

Nine Biological Assessments (BA's) were prepared on the Long Creek and Prairie City Ranger Districts for Bull Trout and were sent to the USFWS for concurrence. Close monitoring of grazing activities were implemented during the season to insure compliance with special restrictions identified in the BA's.

Question # 6: Is management of sensitive species across the Forest: 1) meeting Forest Plan Standards; 2) goals and objectives of conservation strategies; and 3) resulting in activities which do not contribute to the loss of viability of any native or desirable non-native plant or animal species and will not cause species to move towards federal listing? What is the population and distribution status and trend for these species?

All management activities on the Malheur National Forest go through an interdisciplinary team process which filters out most activities that will negatively impact sensitive species. Any other potential impacts are mitigated to reduce or eliminate any negative impacts to sensitive species through the Biological Evaluations. To date, no sensitive species on the Malheur National Forest have been moved to federal listing due to activities conducted on the Forest.

Currently the Malheur National Forest does not monitor population viability or conduct distribution studies for any species. We do, however, attempt to maintain important habitats and habitat features that sensitive species require to maintain viable populations (i.e. snags/large woody material). For actual species numbers and distributions refer to ODF&W or USFWS.

Surveys for Luina serpentina have been conducted in proposed underburn areas on Long Creek Ranger District in order to meet the conservation strategy for that species. Upland sandpiper surveys are ongoing on Prairie City Ranger District. No upland sandpipers were seen in 1998. Habitat management projects for this species are described above.

Recommended Action:

Coordinate future monitoring with Wallowa-Whitman and Umatilla National Forests.

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 16   (top)
Raptor Nest Sites

Question # 2: Are prescriptions for raptors nest site protection and associated fledgling areas or similar measures identified in site-specific planning efforts and are these measures implemented as described following management activities?

The Regional Forester's Forest Plan Amendment # 2, June 1995 is followed and all known northern goshawk nest sites are protected, an associated post-fledging area (PFA) is established, and timing restrictions are applied to activities within territories active during the past five years. All other raptor nest sites are protected with at least a > 50 foot no cut buffer and a seasonal restriction of operations, if appropriate, are applied.

On the Burns Ranger District, the Parasol Vegetation and Watershed Management Project has one known northern goshawk nest site. This nest site was given a 30-acre no-cut buffer and a seasonal restriction. A PFA was established for this nest site. Two northern goshawk nest sites were discovered in the Badger Timber Sale area. These nest sites have been given the same protections.

Long Creek/Bear Valley Ranger Districts have prescribed protection measures (nest cutting buffers, modified harvest prescriptions and timing restrictions) for all known raptor nest sites and fledgling areas in the Summit Fire Recovery Project SEIS. This includes the nest and fledgling areas for northern goshawk, Cooper's hawk, and great gray owl. Red-tailed hawk nest sites were also protected. Monitoring trips by biologist staff have shown that these prescriptions were implemented. Layout and marking crews and the sale administrators have been very cooperative in implementing this protection. Goshawk PFAs were established and timing restrictions were applied and followed on the 96 II SS Timber Sale and the Scotty Timber Sale.

Prairie City Ranger District did not conduct any raptor nest site monitoring in 1998.

Question # 3: Were the protection measures implemented successful in meeting Forest Plan

Objectives?

Nest site protections and seasonal restrictions on operations in the immediate area have been respected on the Burns Ranger District. The nest site areas mentioned in question 2 will be monitored Spring 1999 to see if the protection measures were effective.

The protections placed on nest sites on Long Creek/Bear Valley Ranger Districts appeared to allow the young to successfully fledge (great gray owl young were seen near the Summit nest sites) and the nest groves retained the structure that would allow future nesting.

Prairie City Ranger District did not conduct any raptor nest site monitoring in 1998.

Recommended Action:

Coordinate future monitoring with Wallowa-Whitman and Umatilla National Forests.

 

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 30   (top)
Water Resources

Question: Is the Forest complying with the Clean Water Act and the MOU with the State of Oregon by properly implementing Forest Plan Standards for water quality protection? (Forest-wide Standards 117-120 and applicable Management Area specific standards)

The Forest continued to focus on water quality protection in FY 1998. Key to the water quality program is providing cool water to support the beneficial uses of the Malheur National Forest streams. Equally important to the water quality program is implementation of recommended best management practices and determination of effectiveness.

Water Temperature:

Oregon's Department of Environmental Quality's 1998 303(d) list of water quality limited stream segments identified 69 streams on the Malheur National Forest as being temperature limited. The goal of the Forest's water temperature program is to monitor stream water temperatures from the major fish-bearing waters on the Forest. Stream temperatures were monitored at 77 locations across 8 watersheds. Work was accomplished by both Forest personnel and private cooperators through a challenge cost share project with The Nature Conservancy in the Middle Fork of the John Day River basin. Data from these sites has not been analyzed to date.

Best Management Practices:

A main focus for evaluating BMPs this year concentrated on prescribed riparian habitat conservation areas (RHCAs): were they properly implemented and were resources protected? RHCAs on the Summit timber sale were checked for proper layout on approximately 50 units affecting 120 stream segments. Initial compliance showed good attention had been given marking of RHCAs. Following findings of the monitoring, a few boundaries were re-marked to bring compliance of the RHCAs to 100 percent of recommendations. A monitoring team did observe skidding had occurred down some ephemeral streams, due to lack of classification of these drainages. Interception of subsurface can result from skidding in these drainages. Monitoring of prescribed fire units on the Forest observed that low intensity fires were allowed to back into riparian areas with no adverse effects to the water quality. Sediment caused by prescribed fire did not appear to reach any streams.

Skid trail and road conditions on timber sales were observed for implementation of BMPs and maintenance needs. Some trails were noted with soil displacement and were rehabilitated to reduce risk of erosion and sediment transport. Roads were allowed to dry and haul of logs were curtailed to reduce damage to the road surface and reduce sediment.

Ancillary to the water quality program was testing of campground water quality, and review of sanitation facilities and refuse disposal. Ten campgrounds and one organizational camp were checked and passed review.

Recommendations:

Continue to monitor stream temperatures at the recommended Level A and B of Oregon DEQ protocols. Assess causes and determine restoration needs to bring stream temperatures into compliance with state water quality standards. Work toward de-listing of identified 303(d) streams on the Forest.

Find ways to get stream temperature data analyzed.

Continue to closely monitor implementation of BMPs and follow up with needed corrections and maintenance.

Proper classification and mapping of ephemeral drainages is needed. Protection must be given to these drainages when locating skid trails and landings.

 

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 32   (top)
Soil Resources

Question: Is the Forest complying with Regional guidelines for the protection of soil resources by properly implementing Forest Plan Standards for the protection of soil resources? (Forest-wide standards 125-129)

The focus of the Tri-Forest Monitoring Team for the Blue Mountain forests centered on prescribed fires where observations were made related to soil and water quality BMPs. The two monitored prescribed fires burned at low intensity and the effects to the soils were neutral. The duff layer was mostly intact with no signs of overland flow or sediment movement. A few localized areas were severely burned, resulting in some minor erosion but overall effects were well within Forest Plan standards. Sediment did not appear to reach any streams.

A study was conducted by the Long Creek/Bear Valley district soil scientist to determine transport distances of sediment from roads in the Swamp planning area in the upper Silvies River watershed. A total of 35 points were observed along older, well vegetated roads and measured for sediment movement from the road surface At only two points did sediment travel more than 50 feet from the road. Those points were at locations where ground cover was minimal and soils were shallow. Sediment flows stopped before reaching 50 feet from road edge and only a very small amount of sediment was transported at the remaining 33 sites. This study suggested that within this planning area, because of characteristic soils, slopes, and precipitation; buffers between proposed activities and streams may be sufficient at 50 feet.

Monitoring of 3 units on the Prairie City District where a winged subsoiler was used to restore compacted areas showed full compliance with implementation and effectiveness with project objectives. This project was a rework of initial treatment.

Recommended Actions:

Continue to promote low intensity prescribed fires to protect the long term productivity of the soil resources.

Incorporate site specific recommendations for protection of the soil resources when assessing effects from management activities, based on local characteristics of the watershed and soil types.

Continue to utilize and evaluate winged subsoiling as a treatment for decompaction and restoring site productivity.

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 33   (top)
Minerals

Questions: Do mining operations meet Forest Management Goals and Forest Plan Management Area Standards and Guidelines? Are lands disturbed by mining being reclaimed to a use consistent with rehabilitation standards and guidelines contained in the Forest Plan? Are the rehabilitation standards for mineral operations effective (Forest-wide #139)?

Mining activities have remained low compared with the number of active operations approximately 15 years ago. This low activity level is due to the current low gold and silver prices.

Standards were met on all inspected active mining operations covered by operating plans.

Four active mining operations on the Forest were covered by plan of operation. Two of these operations are bonded. All were reviewed and are working within their plan.

All authorized Notices of Intent were reviewed by a team of resource specialists prior to authorization to ensure these small operations meet Forest Plan standards. All of the active operations inspected were meeting or were brought into compliance with Forest standards and guidelines. No heritage sites associated with mining were identified this year.

One bonded Plan of Operations on the Burns Ranger District will be closed in 1999. There were no mining operations on the Bear Valley or Prairie City Ranger Districts in 1998.

The Forest has an active non-locatable (common varieties) minerals program with an increased demand for this type of product developing over the past two years. Operating plans are developed for the larger material extractions, with smaller entries on a case-by-case basis. Informal coordination between the District minerals technicians and the Forest minerals coordinator has resulted in consistency across the Forest.

Although not specifically identified in the Forest Plan, cabin occupancy associated with mining is a lingering concern. Currently there are six unauthorized cabins being used and maintained. Two other cabins are covered by plan of operation. All cabins require close monitoring to insure proper use.

There are currently no oil and gas leases on the Forest.

Operating plans contain specific procedures that are required of the operator after mining is completed. The intent is to return the site to the condition that existed prior to mining. It is recognized however, that the change may have improved the area and be allowed to remain, like a settling pond being left for wetland habitat, a bat gate installation in an abandoned adit to provide for bat sanctuary, and structures left for cultural heritage.

Bonding is required on all operations that involve the use of mechanized equipment and hand operations when significant damage may occur, especially in riparian areas. This direction will help assure reclamation objectives.

Forest-wide Standard 139 is a general statement that calls for environmental protection and ultimate rehabilitation, stating that reclamation plans should clearly state final management objectives for a specific mined area. Our current practice is to describe these objectives in the plan of operations.

Reclamation work of past years was reviewed this year to determine how effective reclamation techniques were and to capture new opportunities for improvements. All sites were in a stable condition overall with an active and growing ground vegetation cover.

All current mining operations do meet Forest Standards and Goals. Some closed operations do not, however, and funds are not currently available for Forest Service reclamation.

Recommended Action:

Coordinate future monitoring with Wallowa-Whitman and Umatilla National Forests.

 

MALHEUR MONITORING ITEM 34   (top)
Road Mileage and Open Road Density

Questions: Are the Forests reducing open road densities as envisioned by the Forest Plans? Are road closures effective at eliminating vehicle traffic? If a closure is breached, does the road still meet management objectives?

Table M-7
OPEN ROAD DENSITIES BY MAJOR WATERSHED
YEARLY COMPARISONS AND MINIMUM FOREST PLAN GOAL FY'99
Malheur National Forest

Major
Sub-basin
FY'90 M/SM FY'91 M/SM FY'92 M/SM FY'93 M/SM FY'94 M/SM FY'95 M/SM FY'96 M/SM FY'97 M/SM FY'98 M/SM Goal
FY'99
ANADROMOUS
(North Fork JD) Fox/Cottonwood
Summer Range 4.0 4.1 3.1 3.1 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.7 1.2 3.2
Winter Range 4.0 3.4 3.4 3.5 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.6 2.2
Middle Fork JD *
Summer Range 4.6 4.5 3.6 3.4 3.4 2.9 2.7 2.4 2.3 3.2
Winter Range 7.2 6.8 6.1 5.9 5.3 4.5 2.8 1.8 1.3 2.2
Wildlife Emp 0.5 0.5 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 1.5
Upper John Day *
Summer Range 4.6 4.3 3.6 3.3 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 1.8 3.2
Winter Range 1.7 1.6 1.4 1.2 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.0 2.2
Wildlife Emp 0.2 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 1.5
South Fork JD *
Summer Range 3.7 3.7 3.3 3.1 2.7 2.7 2.7 2.7 2.7 3.2
Winter Range 2.8 3.6 3.3 2.9 2.4 2.4 2.4 2.2 2.2 2.2
Wildlife Emp 0.3 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 1.5

NON- ANADROMOUS

Silvies
Summer Range 6.8 4.2 3.9 3.8 3.8 3.7 3.7 3.6 3.5 3.2
Winter Range 3.3 3.2 3.6 3.6 3.5 3.3 3.1 3.1 3.0 2.2
Malheur *
Summer Range 3.2 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.6 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.4 3.2
Winter Range 4.1 4.0 3.5 3.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 1.5 2.2
North Fork Mal *
Summer Range 4.0 3.4 3.3 3.3 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.8 2.8 3.2
Winter Range 2.0 1.6 1.7 1.7 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2 2.2
Forest Totals
Summer Range 4.2 3.9 3.5 3.4 3.0 2.9 2.8 2.7 2.6 3.2
Winter Range 3.6 3.8 3.3 3.2 3.0 2.8 2.4 2.3 2.3 2.2
Wildlife Emp 0.3 0.5 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 0.4 1.5
* - Indicates FY minimum forest plan goals were met for watershed (sub-basin).

Are road closures effective at eliminating vehicle traffic?

Closure effectiveness monitoring and analysis has not been done.

If a closure is breached, does the road still meet management objectives?

The road will meet most management objectives if the breach occurs during the dry season. The breached barricades that occur in late fall (November and later) do not meet the management objectives due to snow and rain causing erosion and sediment problems.

Miles of road decommissioned per Regional definitions: 60
Miles of road closed: 267
Miles of road constructed: 8
Miles of road reconstructed: 98

Recommended Action:

Coordinate future monitoring with Wallowa-Whitman and Umatilla National Forests.

Table M-8
FOREST ACCOMPLISHMENTS - FY 1998
Malheur National Forest

The following table provides a summary of selected Forest accomplishments and resource outputs for FY 98 from all funding sources, including trust funds and partnership efforts. Where possible, these are compared to Forest Plan estimates, but in many of the cases the unit of measure has changed since the Forest Plan was completed and direct comparison is no longer possible.

RESOURCE
ACTIVITY/OUTPUT

UNIT OF
MEASURE

FOREST PLAN
PROJECTION
(avg/year)

ACTUAL
FY 98
FOREST OUTPUT

% ACTUAL TO
FOREST PLAN

FIRE
Natural Fuel Treatment
Activity Fuel Treatment


Acres
Acres


2,000
10,000


2,460
14,926


125
149

FISH
Anadromous Stream Restored/Enhanced
Inland Stream Restored/Enhanced


Miles
Miles


Not Specified
Not Specified


19.6
5


NA
NA

RANGE
Permitted Grazing
Non-structural Improvements
Structural Improvements
Noxious Weed Treatment


AUMs
Acres
Structures
Acres


110,000
4,800
250
200


110,789
2,195
44
78


101
46
18
39

RECREATION
Trail Construction/Reconstruction
Developed Recreation Capacity


Miles
PAOTs


50
371,000


23.2
377,000


46
102

ROADS
Construction
Reconstruction
Decommissioned
Closed


Miles
Miles
Miles
Miles


220
Not Specified
Not Specified
Not Specified


8
98
60
267


4%
NA
NA
NA

THREATENED, ENDANGERED,
and SENSITIVE SPECIES
Aquatic Habitat Restored/Enhanced
Terrestrial Habitat Restored/Enhanced



Miles
Acres



Not Specified
4



1
40



NA
1000

TIMBER
Total Program Sale Quantity
Reforestation
Timber Stand Improvement


MMBF
Acres
Acres


211
12,672
10,800


77.1
10,427
5,037


37
82
47

WILDLIFE
Habitat Restored/Enhanced
Habitat Structures


Acres
Structures


750
300


4,009
32


535
11

WATER
Watershed Improvements


Acres


172


201


117

FOREST PLAN AMENDMENTS

One non-significant Forest Plan Amendment was prepared for the Malheur National Forest in FY 1998.

Amendment Number
Date
Summary and Comments
50 July, 1998 Amends the Forest Plan to allow short term management activities not consistent with current Forest Plan direction within the Summit Fire Recovery Project.

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