Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment Selawik National Wildlife Refuge

              U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment
Selawik National Wildlife Refuge
September 2010
Comprehensive Conn Asses ReU.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Mission Statement
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
Refuge Mission Statement
The mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System is to administer a national network of lands and waters for the conservation, management, and, where appropriate, restoration of the fish, wildlife, and plant resources and their habitats within the United States for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans.
—National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997
The comprehensive conservation plan details program planning levels that are substantially greater than current budget allocations and, as such, is for strategic planning and program prioritization purposes only. This plan does not constitute a commitment for staffing increases or funding for future refuge-specific land acquisitions, construction projects, or operational and maintenance increases.
Cover photo from the image library of the Selawik National Wildlife RefugeDraft Revised
Comprehensive Conservation Plan
And
Environmental Assessment
Selawik National Wildlife Refuge
September 2010
Prepared by:
Alaska Region
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Division of Conservation Planning
P.O. Box 270 and Policy
Kotzebue, AK 99752 1011 East Tudor Road, MS 231
Anchorage, AK 99503United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
National Wildlife Refuge System – Alaska
Division of Conservation Planning and Policy
1011 East Tudor Road – MS 231
Anchorage, Alaska 99503
(907) 786-3357
Dear Reader:
This is the Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan (Plan) and Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge. The final version of this Plan will guide management of the refuge for the next 15 years. This draft outlines three alternatives, including our preferred alternative, and presents our evaluation of the environmental consequences of the alternatives. Additionally, the refuge manager’s preliminary reviews of the compatibility of refuge uses with refuge purposes are presented in Appendix D, Compatibility Determinations.
Please provide comments on the Draft Plan by January 15, 2011. Comments should be specific, addressing merits of the alternatives and adequacy of the environmental analysis. We will consider your comments as we prepare the Final Plan. Environmental objections that could have been raised at the draft stage may be waived if not raised until after completion of the Final Plan.
Public meetings will be held in Kotzebue and other area communities during the public review period. Meeting dates, times, and locations will be announced locally.
All public comments received will become part of the public record for this action. Before including your name, address, phone number, e-mail address, or other personal identifying information in your comments, you should be aware that your entire comment—including your personal identifying information—may be made publicly available at any time. While you can ask us in your comment to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so.
You may view this Draft Plan online at http://www.r7.fws.gov/nwr/planning/plans.htm , or obtain it on a compact disk (forthcoming).
Comments and requests for CD-ROMs or Request for more information about
more information should be directed to: Selawik refuge should be directed to:
Jeffrey Brooks, Planning Team Leader Lee Anne Ayres, Refuge Manager
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Selawik National Wildlife Refuge
1011 E. Tudor Road, MS-231 P.O. Box 270
Anchorage, AK 99503 Kotzebue, AK 99752
907-786-3839 907-442-3799
selawik_planning@fws.gov selawik@fws.gov
http://selawik.fws.gov/
We thank everyone who participated in the planning and public involvement process. Your comments helped us prepare a better plan for the future of Selawik refuge. A Note on Compatibility Determinations
Determining the compatibility of uses is a key process by which refuge managers decide what activities will be allowed on National Wildlife Refuges. An essential element in the process is providing the public an opportunity to provide input for the refuge manager to consider as he or she determines if a use is compatible with the purposes for which a refuge was established.
Compatibility determinations are required for all economic and public use activities, as well as for recreational and educational facilities provided by the refuge, and for refuge economic activities. Compatibility determinations are not required for refuge management activities such as scientific studies or surveys; historic preservation activities; law enforcement activities; and/or maintenance of refuge management facilities, structures, and improvement. Economic uses must contribute to achieving refuge purposes and the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System.
We reevaluate compatibility determinations for existing wildlife-dependent recreational uses when we prepare or revise a comprehensive conservation plan, or every 15 years, whichever is sooner. We reevaluate other uses every 10 years, or sooner, if conditions change or significant new information relative to the use and its effects becomes available.
As part of the review of this Draft Plan, you are invited to provide relevant information or comment on the compatibility determinations for Selawik National Wildlife Refuge. A discussion of compatibility determinations can be found in Chapter 2, Section 2.4.6. The environmental analysis in Chapter 4 may provide a starting point on which to base your comments. The complete text of each draft compatibility determination can be found in Appendix D.
Public comment on the draft compatibility determinations will be addressed in the final determination to be released with the Final Plan. More information on the compatibility process can be found at http://alaska.fws.gov/nwr/planning/compdeter.htm.
Table of Contents
Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan vii
Table of Contents
1. Introduction ............................................................................................................................. 1-1
1.1 Purpose and Need for Action ......................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Planning Context ............................................................................................................. 1-2
1.2.1 The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service............................................................................ 1-2
1.2.2 The National Wildlife Refuge System ....................................................................... 1-3
1.2.3 Principles of Refuge Management ............................................................................ 1-4
1.3 Legal and Policy Guidance and State Coordination .................................................... 1-4
1.3.1 Legal Guidance ............................................................................................................ 1-4
1.3.2 Policy Guidance ............................................................................................................ 1-5
1.3.3 Coordination with the State of Alaska ...................................................................... 1-6
1.4 Refuge Purposes, Vision, and Goals .............................................................................. 1-9
1.4.1 Refuge Purposes .......................................................................................................... 1-9
1.4.2 Refuge Vision ............................................................................................................... 1-9
1.4.3 Refuge Vision Statement in English ....................................................................... 1-10
1.4.4 Refuge Vision Statement in Iñupiaq ....................................................................... 1-10
1.4.5 Refuge Goals .............................................................................................................. 1-10
1.4.6 Goal Statements in English ...................................................................................... 1-10
1.4.7 Goal Statements in Iñupiaq ...................................................................................... 1-11
1.5 Refuge Overview ............................................................................................................ 1-12
1.5.1 Refuge Establishment .............................................................................................. 1-12
1.5.2 Physical Environment ............................................................................................... 1-12
1.5.3 Biological Resources ................................................................................................. 1-13
1.5.4 Human Presence and Activities ............................................................................... 1-14
1.6 Special Values ................................................................................................................ 1-15
1.6.1 Western Arctic Caribou Herd .................................................................................. 1-15
1.6.2 Wetlands and Waterfowl .......................................................................................... 1-15
1.6.3 Whitefish Spawning .................................................................................................. 1-15
1.6.4 Natural Processes ..................................................................................................... 1-15
1.6.5 Subsistence Way of Life ........................................................................................... 1-16
1.6.6 Wilderness Values and Designation ........................................................................ 1-16
1.6.7 Wild River Designation ............................................................................................. 1-16
1.6.8 Hot Springs ................................................................................................................ 1-17
1.6.9 Cultural and Historic Resources ............................................................................. 1-17
1.6.10 Dog Sledding Competition........................................................................................ 1-17
1.7 Planning Requirements ................................................................................................ 1-17
1.8 The Planning Process .................................................................................................... 1-18
1.8.1 Design the Process .................................................................................................... 1-19
1.8.2 Initiate Public Involvement and Scoping ................................................................ 1-19
1.8.3 Determine Significant Issues ................................................................................... 1-21
1.8.4 Develop and Analyze Alternatives ........................................................................... 1-21 Table of Contents
viii Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan
1.8.5 Prepare Draft Plan and Environmental Assessment ........................................... 1-21
1.8.6 Prepare and Adopt a Final Plan .............................................................................. 1-21
1.8.7 Implement Plan, Monitor, and Evaluate ................................................................ 1-22
1.8.8 Review and Revise the Plan ..................................................................................... 1-22
1.9 Planning Issues ............................................................................................................. 1-22
1.9.1 How will the refuge protect fish, wildlife, habitat, subsistence, and the wild character of the refuge while addressing community needs? .............................. 1-22
1.9.2 How will the refuge address long-term transportation needs in the region and access to refuge lands? ............................................................................................. 1-23
1.9.3 How will the refuge maintain fish and wildlife populations? ................................ 1-24
1.9.4 How will the refuge maintain hunting opportunities within the refuge boundary? 1-25
1.9.5 How will the refuge address local public use needs on the refuge, including trails, shelter cabins, the Singauruk (Siŋiaġruk) Bridge, and the Hot Springs? .......... 1-26
1.9.6 How will the refuge monitor and address the effects of climate change? ........... 1-28
1.9.7 How will the refuge address water quality and quantity issues? ........................ 1-29
1.9.8 How will the refuge enhance its relationship with communities, provide more outreach, and better communicate with the public? .............................................. 1-29
1.10 References ..................................................................................................................... 1-30
2. Goals and Objectives, Management Policies and Guidelines, and Alternatives ....... 2-1
2.1 Goals and Objectives ....................................................................................................... 2-1
2.1.1 Goal 1: Conserve the diversity of fish and wildlife and their habitats on refuge lands, while allowing ecological processes to shape the environment. .................. 2-2
2.1.2 Goal 2: Maintain the integrity and promote the environmental health of waters and aquatic habitats within the refuge. .................................................................... 2-6
2.1.3 Goal 3: Provide and promote opportunities for local residents to engage in subsistence activities on the refuge. .......................................................................... 2-8
2.1.4 Goal 4: Provide quality visitor experiences and enjoyment of resources on refuge lands through compatible recreation activities, including hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, and photography, in ways that minimize conflicts among visitor groups and residents. ................................................................................................ 2-11
2.1.5 Goal 5: Provide outreach and education to foster a sense of stewardship and respect for wildlife, fish, cultural values, and the environment. .......................... 2-12
2.1.6 Goal 6: Preserve and protect the cultural, historical, and archaeological resources of the refuge. .............................................................................................................. 2-15
2.1.7 Goal 7: Develop and maintain credibility and open communication with partners in resource management and conservation, including Federal and State agencies, educational institutions, local communities, Native corporations, tribal governments, neighboring landowners, businesses, and organizations. ............. 2-17
2.1.8 Goal 8: Develop a leadership role in addressing climate change in northwest Alaska. ........................................................................................................................ 2-19
2.2 Overview of Regional Management Policies .............................................................. 2-21
2.3 Management Categories .............................................................................................. 2-22
2.3.1 Intensive Management ............................................................................................. 2-22 Table of Contents
Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan ix
2.3.2 Moderate Management ............................................................................................. 2-22
2.3.3 Minimal Management ............................................................................................... 2-23
2.3.4 Wilderness Management .......................................................................................... 2-24
2.3.5 Wild River Management ........................................................................................... 2-27
2.3.6 Special Management Areas ...................................................................................... 2-28
2.3.6.1 Management of Selected Lands .................................................................... 2-28
2.4 Management Policies and Guidelines .......................................................................... 2-28
2.4.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................... 2-28
2.4.2 Management Emergencies ....................................................................................... 2-29
2.4.3 Land Exchanges and Acquisitions ........................................................................... 2-29
2.4.4 Land Protection Plans .............................................................................................. 2-29
2.4.5 Appropriate Refuge Uses ......................................................................................... 2-30
2.4.6 Compatibility Determinations .................................................................................. 2-31
2.4.7 Mitigation ................................................................................................................... 2-32
2.4.8 Coastal Zone Consistency ......................................................................................... 2-33
2.4.9 Cooperation and Coordination with Others ............................................................ 2-34
2.4.9.1 Federal, State, and Local Governments ...................................................... 2-34
2.4.9.2 Tribes and Native American Organizations ................................................ 2-35
2.4.9.3 Owners of Refuge Inholdings and Adjacent Lands .................................... 2-35
2.4.9.4 Fish and Wildlife Service Jurisdiction over Waters within the Selawik Refuge ......................................................................................... 2-35
2.4.9.5 Other Constituencies ...................................................................................... 2-35
2.4.10 Ecosystem and Landscape Management ............................................................... 2-36
2.4.10.1 Air Quality ....................................................................................................... 2-36
2.4.10.2 Water Resources Management ..................................................................... 2-36
2.4.10.3 Visual Resource Management ....................................................................... 2-37
2.4.10.4 Cultural, Historical, and Paleontological Resources .................................. 2-37
2.4.11 Fish and Wildlife Habitat Management ................................................................. 2-38
2.4.11.1 Habitat Management ..................................................................................... 2-38
2.4.11.2 Fire Management ........................................................................................... 2-39
2.4.12 Fish and Wildlife Population Management ............................................................ 2-43
2.4.12.1 Wildlife Inventory and Monitoring Plan ...................................................... 2-43
2.4.12.2 Scientific Peer Review ................................................................................... 2-43
2.4.12.3 Compliance with the Animal Welfare Act .................................................... 2-44
2.4.12.4 Marking and Banding .................................................................................... 2-44
2.4.12.5 Threatened or Endangered Species ............................................................. 2-44
2.4.12.6 Reintroductions .............................................................................................. 2-44
2.4.12.7 Fish and Wildlife Control .............................................................................. 2-45
2.4.12.8 Management of Non-native, Invasive, and Pest Species ........................... 2-45
2.4.12.9 Disease Prevention and Control ................................................................... 2-46
2.4.12.10 Fishery Restoration ....................................................................................... 2-46
2.4.12.11 Fishery Enhancement .................................................................................... 2-47 Table of Contents
x Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan
2.4.13 Subsistence Management......................................................................................... 2-47
2.4.13.1 Access for Subsistence Purposes ................................................................. 2-49
2.4.13.2 Section 810 Evaluations ................................................................................. 2-49
2.4.14 Public Access and Transportation Management ................................................... 2-49
2.4.14.1 Snowmobiles, Motorboats, Airplanes, and Non-motorized Surface Transportation ................................................................................. 2-49
2.4.14.2 Off-Road Vehicles........................................................................................... 2-49
2.4.14.3 Helicopters ...................................................................................................... 2-49
2.4.14.4 Access to Inholdings ...................................................................................... 2-50
2.4.14.5 Temporary Access .......................................................................................... 2-50
2.4.14.6 Subsistence Access ......................................................................................... 2-50
2.4.14.7 Transportation and Utility Systems ............................................................ 2-50
2.4.14.8 State Transportation Planning ..................................................................... 2-51
2.4.14.9 RS 2477 Rights-of-Way ................................................................................. 2-51
2.4.14.10 17(b) Easements ............................................................................................. 2-52
2.4.14.11 Navigation Aids and other Facilities ........................................................... 2-52
2.4.15 Recreation and Other Public Use ............................................................................ 2-52
2.4.16 Public Use Facilities ................................................................................................. 2-53
2.4.16.1 Cabins .............................................................................................................. 2-53
2.4.16.2 Temporary Facilities for the Taking of Fish and Wildlife ......................... 2-54
2.4.17 Outreach and Education ........................................................................................... 2-54
2.4.18 Commercial Use Management ................................................................................ 2-55
2.4.18.1 Commercial Recreation Services ................................................................. 2-55
2.4.18.2 Mineral Exploration and Development ....................................................... 2-55
2.4.18.3 Commercial Fishing and Related Facilities ................................................ 2-56
2.4.18.4 Commercial Harvest of Timber and Firewood ........................................... 2-57
2.4.18.5 Commercial Gathering of Other Resources ................................................ 2-57
2.4.18.6 Commercial Filming and Recording Activities ........................................... 2-57
2.4.18.7 Other Commercial Uses ................................................................................ 2-57
2.4.19 Environmental Contaminants Identification and Cleanup .................................. 2-57
2.4.20 Management of Designated Wilderness ................................................................. 2-58
2.4.21 Administration of the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge ..................................... 2-59
2.4.21.1 Administrative Sites and Visitor Facilities ................................................. 2-59
2.4.21.2 Refuge Management Plans ........................................................................... 2-61
2.4.22 Alaska Mineral Resource Assessment Program ................................................... 2-61
2.5 Management Categories Table .................................................................................... 2-61
2.5.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................... 2-61
2.5.1.1 Definitions for Management Categories Table .......................................... 2-61
2.6 Management Alternatives ............................................................................................ 2-81
2.7 Development of Alternatives ....................................................................................... 2-81
2.8 Alternatives Considered But Eliminated ................................................................... 2-81
2.8.1 Recommending Rivers for the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System .......... 2-81 Table of Contents
Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xi
2.8.2 Recommending Lands for Designation as Wilderness ......................................... 2-81
2.8.3 Other Alternatives Considered ................................................................................ 2-82
2.9 Management Actions Common to All Alternatives .................................................... 2-82
2.9.1 Environmental Conservation and Monitoring ....................................................... 2-82
2.9.1.1 Standard Practice ........................................................................................... 2-82
2.9.1.2 Fisheries .......................................................................................................... 2-82
2.9.1.3 Migratory Birds .............................................................................................. 2-82
2.9.1.4 Western Arctic Caribou Herd ....................................................................... 2-83
2.9.1.5 Invasive Species .............................................................................................. 2-83
2.9.1.6 Environmental Contaminants ....................................................................... 2-83
2.9.2 Public Use and Access .............................................................................................. 2-83
2.9.2.1 Standard Practice ........................................................................................... 2-83
2.9.2.2 Subsistence ...................................................................................................... 2-84
2.9.2.3 Recreation and Outreach ............................................................................... 2-84
2.10 Alternative A – Current Management ........................................................................ 2-84
2.10.1 General Management Direction ............................................................................... 2-84
2.10.2 Management Categories ........................................................................................... 2-84
2.10.3 Specific Management Direction By Major Issue ................................................... 2-85
2.10.3.1 Commercial Use of Refuge Lands ................................................................ 2-85
2.10.3.2 Off-Refuge Administrative Facility .............................................................. 2-85
2.10.3.3 Motorized Access to Refuge Lands .............................................................. 2-85
2.10.3.4 Local Public Use Needs ................................................................................. 2-86
2.10.3.5 Competitive Events of Community and Historic Importance ................... 2-86
2.10.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements ................................................................... 2-86
2.11 Alternative B (Preferred) ............................................................................................. 2-89
2.11.1 General Management Direction ............................................................................... 2-89
2.11.2 Management Categories ........................................................................................... 2-89
2.11.3 Specific Management Direction By Major Issue ................................................... 2-89
2.11.3.1 Commercial Use of Refuge Lands ................................................................ 2-89
2.11.3.2 Off-Refuge Administrative Facility .............................................................. 2-90
2.11.3.3 Motorized Access to Refuge Lands .............................................................. 2-90
2.11.3.4 Local Public Use Needs ................................................................................. 2-90
2.11.3.5 Competitive Events of Community and Historic Importance ................... 2-93
2.11.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements ................................................................... 2-93
2.12 Alternative C .................................................................................................................. 2-93
2.12.1 General Management Direction ............................................................................... 2-93
2.12.2 Management Categories ........................................................................................... 2-93
2.12.3 Specific Management Direction by Major Issue .................................................... 2-94
2.12.3.1 Commercial Use of Refuge Lands ................................................................ 2-94
2.12.3.2 Off-Refuge Administrative Facility .............................................................. 2-94
2.12.3.3 Motorized Access to Refuge Lands .............................................................. 2-94
2.12.3.4 Local Public Use Needs ................................................................................. 2-94 Table of Contents
xii Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan
2.12.3.5 Competitive Events of Community and Historic Importance .................. 2-94
2.12.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements ................................................................... 2-97
2.13 Summary Comparison of Alternatives........................................................................ 2-97
2.14 Comparison of Old and New Management Direction ............................................. 2-100
2.15 Evaluation of Alternatives.......................................................................................... 2-103
2.15.1 Evaluation Criteria ................................................................................................. 2-103
2.15.2 Response to Refuge Purposes ............................................................................... 2-103
2.15.3 Response to National Wildlife Refuge System Mission ..................................... 2-104
2.15.4 Response to Refuge Goals ...................................................................................... 2-104
2.15.5 Response to Issues .................................................................................................. 2-104
2.15.5.1 Commercial Guiding and Air Transporters for Big Game ...................... 2-104
2.15.5.2 Off-Refuge Administrative Facility ........................................................... 2-105
2.15.5.3 Motorized Access to Refuge Lands ............................................................ 2-105
2.15.5.4 Local Public Use Needs .............................................................................. 2-105
2.15.5.5 Community Competitive Events ................................................................ 2-106
2.15.5.6 Monitoring and Addressing Climate Change ........................................... 2-106
2.15.6 Response to Biological Integrity and Ecosystem Management ........................ 2-106
2.16 References ................................................................................................................... 2-106
3. Affected Environment ......................................................................................................... 3-1
3.1 Geographic Setting ........................................................................................................ 3-1
3.1.1 Land Status ................................................................................................................. 3-1
3.1.1.1 Village Native Corporation Land ................................................................... 3-2
3.1.1.2 Regional Native Corporation Lands .............................................................. 3-2
3.1.1.3 Native Allotments ............................................................................................ 3-3
3.1.1.4 Other Private Lands ........................................................................................ 3-3
3.1.1.5 Town Sites ......................................................................................................... 3-3
3.1.1.6 State of Alaska .................................................................................................. 3-3
3.1.1.7 Submerged Lands ............................................................................................ 3-3
3.2 Physical Environment .................................................................................................... 3-4
3.2.1 Climate ......................................................................................................................... 3-4
3.2.2 Climate Change ........................................................................................................... 3-5
3.2.3 Landforms .................................................................................................................... 3-6
3.2.4 Geology ......................................................................................................................... 3-8
3.2.4.1 Surface Geology ................................................................................................ 3-8
3.2.4.2 Bedrock Geology ............................................................................................... 3-8
3.2.5 Soils and Permafrost ................................................................................................. 3-11
3.2.6 Energy Resources ..................................................................................................... 3-15
3.2.7 Mineral Occurrences ................................................................................................. 3-15
3.2.8 Water Resources ...................................................................................................... 3-16
3.2.9 Wildland Fire ............................................................................................................. 3-17
3.2.9.1 Fire Occurrence and Frequency .................................................................. 3-18 Table of Contents
Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xiii
3.2.9.2 Fire Size ........................................................................................................... 3-18
3.2.9.3 Fire Season...................................................................................................... 3-19
3.2.9.4 Impacted Communities .................................................................................. 3-19
3.3 Biological Environment ................................................................................................ 3-19
3.3.1 Vegetation .................................................................................................................. 3-19
3.3.1.1 Habitats ........................................................................................................... 3-19
3.3.2 Fish and Wildlife ....................................................................................................... 3-36
3.3.2.1 Fish .................................................................................................................. 3-36
3.3.2.2 Amphibians ..................................................................................................... 3-43
3.3.2.3 Birds ................................................................................................................. 3-43
3.3.2.4 Terrestrial Mammals ...................................................................................... 3-48
3.3.2.5 Marine Mammals ............................................................................................ 3-53
3.3.2.6 Sensitive Wildlife ............................................................................................ 3-53
3.3.3 Concerns Regarding Fish, Wildlife, and Habitats ................................................. 3-54
3.3.3.1 Energy and Mineral Development ............................................................... 3-54
3.3.3.2 Transportation ................................................................................................ 3-54
3.3.3.3 Land Development Adjacent to the Refuge ................................................ 3-54
3.3.3.4 Climate Change .............................................................................................. 3-54
3.3.3.5 Invasive Species .............................................................................................. 3-55
3.4 Human Environment..................................................................................................... 3-56
3.4.1 Area History .............................................................................................................. 3-56
3.4.1.1 Prehistory ........................................................................................................ 3-56
3.4.1.2 Ethnography ................................................................................................... 3-58
3.4.1.3 History ............................................................................................................. 3-59
3.4.1.4 Historic and Cultural Sites ............................................................................ 3-60
3.4.1.5 Population Trends and Composition ............................................................ 3-64
3.4.1.6 Area Communities .......................................................................................... 3-65
3.4.1.7 Regional Access .............................................................................................. 3-71
3.4.1.8 Regional Economy .......................................................................................... 3-72
3.4.1.9 Subsistence Way of Life ................................................................................ 3-74
3.4.2 Public Use ................................................................................................................... 3-81
3.4.2.1 Overview .......................................................................................................... 3-81
3.4.2.2 Local Public Uses ........................................................................................... 3-82
3.4.2.3 Recreational Hunting ..................................................................................... 3-83
3.4.2.4 Recreational Fishing ...................................................................................... 3-86
3.4.2.5 Outreach and Environmental Education Programs ................................... 3-86
3.5 Resource Values and Special Designations ................................................................ 3-87
3.5.1 Wilderness .................................................................................................................. 3-87
3.5.1.1 Undeveloped .................................................................................................... 3-87
3.5.1.2 Untrammeled .................................................................................................. 3-87
3.5.1.3 Natural ............................................................................................................. 3-87
3.5.1.4 Opportunities for Solitude ............................................................................. 3-87 Table of Contents
xiv Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan
3.5.1.5 Opportunities for Unconfined Recreation ................................................... 3-88
3.5.1.6 Other Special Features .................................................................................. 3-88
3.5.2 Wilderness Review Areas ........................................................................................ 3-88
3.5.2.1 Selawik Wilderness Area .............................................................................. 3-88
3.5.2.2 Headwaters of the Selawik River ................................................................. 3-89
3.5.2.3 Selawik River Delta and Lowlands .............................................................. 3-89
3.5.2.4 Selawik Hills ................................................................................................... 3-90
3.5.3 River Values .............................................................................................................. 3-90
3.5.3.1 Recreation ....................................................................................................... 3-90
3.5.3.2 Geology ............................................................................................................ 3-90
3.5.3.3 Fish .................................................................................................................. 3-90
3.5.3.4 Wildlife ............................................................................................................ 3-90
3.5.3.5 Cultural ........................................................................................................... 3-93
3.5.4 River Descriptions .................................................................................................... 3-93
3.5.4.1 Upper Selawik River ..................................................................................... 3-93
3.5.4.2 Lower Selawik River ..................................................................................... 3-94
3.5.4.3 Kugarak River ................................................................................................ 3-95
3.5.4.4 Tagagawik River ............................................................................................ 3-95
3.5.4.5 Fish River ....................................................................................................... 3-96
3.5.4.6 Kobuk River Delta ......................................................................................... 3-96
3.6 Refuge Infrastructure and Administration ................................................................ 3-96
3.6.1 Administrative Facilities .......................................................................................... 3-96
3.6.2 Staffing ....................................................................................................................... 3-97
3.7 References ..................................................................................................................... 3-98
4. Environmental Consequences ............................................................................................. 4-1
4.1 Impacts to the Biophysical Environment ..................................................................... 4-2
4.1.1 Issue: Commercial Guides and Transporters .......................................................... 4-2
4.1.1.1 Permafrost and Soils........................................................................................ 4-3
4.1.1.2 Air Quality ......................................................................................................... 4-3
4.1.1.3 Water Quality and Aquatic Habitats.............................................................. 4-3
4.1.1.4 Vegetation and Terrestrial Habitats .............................................................. 4-4
4.1.1.5 Wildland Fire .................................................................................................... 4-4
4.1.1.6 Fish Populations ............................................................................................... 4-4
4.1.1.7 Bird Populations ............................................................................................... 4-4
4.1.1.8 Mammal Populations ....................................................................................... 4-5
4.1.1.9 Cumulative Impacts ......................................................................................... 4-5
4.1.2 Issue: Local Public Use Needs .................................................................................. 4-5
4.1.2.1 Winter Trail Marking ...................................................................................... 4-5
4.1.2.2 Shelter Cabins .................................................................................................. 4-6
4.1.2.3 Singauruk (Siŋiaġruk) Bridge ........................................................................ 4-7
4.1.2.4 Hot Springs ....................................................................................................... 4-8 Table of Contents
Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xv
4.1.2.5 Cumulative Impacts ......................................................................................... 4-9
4.1.3 Issue: Motorized Access to Refuge Lands ................................................................ 4-9
4.1.3.1 All-terrain Vehicles .......................................................................................... 4-9
4.1.3.2 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-11
4.1.4 Issue: Off-Refuge Administrative Facility ............................................................. 4-11
4.1.4.1 Shared Service/Community Building(s) ....................................................... 4-11
4.1.4.2 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-11
4.1.5 Issue: Competitive Events of Community and Historic Importance .................. 4-11
4.1.5.1 Dog Sled Racing ............................................................................................. 4-11
4.1.5.2 Snowmachine Racing ..................................................................................... 4-12
4.1.5.3 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-13
4.2 Impacts to the Human Environment........................................................................... 4-14
4.2.1 Issue: Commercial Guides and Transporters ......................................................... 4-14
4.2.1.1 Local Economy and Commercial Uses ......................................................... 4-14
4.2.1.2 Cultural Resources ......................................................................................... 4-14
4.2.1.3 Subsistence ...................................................................................................... 4-14
4.2.1.4 Visitor Services and Recreation Opportunities ........................................... 4-14
4.2.1.5 Public Health and Safety ............................................................................... 4-14
4.2.1.6 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-15
4.2.2 Issue: Local Public Use Needs................................................................................. 4-15
4.2.2.1 Winter Trail Marking ..................................................................................... 4-15
4.2.2.2 Shelter Cabins ................................................................................................. 4-16
4.2.2.3 Singauruk (Siŋiaġruk) Bridge ....................................................................... 4-16
4.2.2.4 Hot Springs ..................................................................................................... 4-17
4.2.2.5 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-18
4.2.3 Issue: Motorized Access to Refuge Lands .............................................................. 4-18
4.2.3.1 All-terrain Vehicles ........................................................................................ 4-18
4.2.3.2 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-19
4.2.4 Issue: Off-refuge Administrative Facility ............................................................... 4-19
4.2.4.1 Shared Service/Community Building(s) ....................................................... 4-19
4.2.4.2 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-19
4.2.5 Issue: Competitive Events of Community and Historic Importance .................. 4-20
4.2.5.1 Dog Sled Racing ............................................................................................. 4-20
4.2.5.2 Snowmachine Racing ..................................................................................... 4-20
4.2.5.3 Cumulative Impacts ....................................................................................... 4-21
4.3 Environmental Justice .................................................................................................. 4-21
4.4 Section 810 Evaluation .................................................................................................. 4-21
4.5 References ...................................................................................................................... 4-22
5. Implementation and Monitoring ......................................................................................... 5-1
5.1 Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 5-1
5.2 Current Step-down Plans ............................................................................................... 5-1 Table of Contents
xvi Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan
5.2.1 Fishery Management Plan ......................................................................................... 5-1
5.2.2 Western Arctic Caribou Herd Cooperative Management Plan ............................. 5-2
5.2.3 Fire Management Plan ............................................................................................... 5-2
5.2.4 Cultural Resources Management Guide .................................................................. 5-2
5.2.5 Water Resources ......................................................................................................... 5-3
5.2.6 Inventory and Monitoring Plan ................................................................................. 5-3
5.3 Future Step-down Plans ................................................................................................. 5-3
5.3.1 Land Protection Plan .................................................................................................. 5-3
5.3.2 Wilderness Stewardship Plan .................................................................................... 5-4
5.4 Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................. 5-4
5.4.1 Introduction ................................................................................................................. 5-4
5.4.2 A Focus on Partnering ............................................................................................... 5-5
5.4.3 Partnerships to Address Key Planning Issues ........................................................ 5-5
5.4.3.1 Commercial Guides and Transporters ........................................................... 5-5
5.4.3.2 Shared Community Building .......................................................................... 5-6
5.4.3.3 Winter Trail Marking ...................................................................................... 5-7
5.4.3.4 Shelter Cabins .................................................................................................. 5-7
5.4.3.5 Singauruk (Siŋiaġruk) Bridge .......................................................................... 5-7
5.4.3.6 Public Use at the Hot Springs ........................................................................ 5-7
5.5 Plan Amendment and Revision ...................................................................................... 5-7
5.6 References ....................................................................................................................... 5-8
Appendices
A. Legal and Policy Guidance
B. Coordination with the State of Alaska
C. Consultation and Coordination
D. Compatibility Determinations
E. Inventory and Monitoring Plan Executive Summary
F. Easements and Rights-of-way
G. Members of the Planning Team and Preparers of the Plan
H. Species of the Selawik Refuge
I. Abbreviations, Acronyms, and Glossary
J. Definitions for Land Cover Classes (ABR, Inc. 2009)
Maps
Map 1-1. Land Status and State Game Management Unit 23 in Selawik Refuge. ..................................................................................................................... 1-7
Map 2-1. Selawik Management Categories ....................................................................... 2-25
Map 2-2. Fire Management Zones for Selawik Refuge from the Alaska Interagency Wildland Fire Management Plan ................................................ 2-41
Map 2-3. Guide Use Area. ................................................................................................... 2-87
Map 2-4. Alternative B, Area Closed to Commercial Guiding and Air Transporters ......................................................................................................... 2-91 Table of Contents
Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xvii
Map 2-5. Alternative C, Areas Opened or Closed to Commercial Guiding and Air Transporters by Permit Stipulation. ............................................................ 2-95
Map 3-1. Surface Geology for the Selawik Refuge. ............................................................. 3-9
Map 3-2. Soil Landscapes ..................................................................................................... 3-13
Map 3-3. Location of Oil and Gas Basin for Selawik Refuge. ........................................... 3-21
Map 3-4. The Watersheds of Selawik Refuge. ................................................................... 3-23
Map 3-5. Vegetative Fuel Types and Wildland Fire History at Selawik Refuge. ................................................................................................................... 3-25
Map 3-6. Vegetation Structure. ........................................................................................... 3-31
Map 3-7. Ecotype classes. .................................................................................................... 3-33
Map 3-8. Relative Densities for Waterfowl at Selawik Refuge. ....................................... 3-45
Map 3-9. Some Traditional Place Names for Selawik Refuge. ........................................ 3-61
Map 3-10. River Values and Selawik Wild River Corridor. ................................................ 3-91
Map F-1. Land Status and Easements (17b) ....................................................................... F-5
Map F-2. Land Status and Rights-of-way Claimed by the State of Alaska Under RS-2477 ....................................................................................................... F-7
Figures
Figure 1-1. Location of the Selawik refuge within Alaska. ..................................................... 1-3
Figure 1-2. Along the Arctic Circle, the season of snow and ice lasts far longer than the open water season. Long shadows and pastel colors bathe the land on this mid-January afternoon in the village of Selawik. ................... 1-13
Figure 1-3. Boreal forest and shrubs line the streams and rivers, while tundra dominates in the remainder of the landscape in the middle Selawik valley. ...................................................................................................................... 1-14
Figure 1-4. Blueberries, abundant on the refuge in most years, are one of the many resources harvested for subsistence by local residents. ......................... 1-16
Figure 1-5. Mushers and bystanders get ready for the start of the Kobuk 440 dog sled race on the ice in front of Kotzebue. Photo by Tina Moran............... 1-17
Figure 1-6. The Planning Process. .......................................................................................... 1-19
Figure 1-7. Shelter cabins, such as this one at Paniqsiġvik, contribute to public safety by providing winter travelers with emergency protection from stormy or cold weather. ............................................................................... 1-27
Figure 1-8. The Singauruk (Siŋiaġruk) Bridge along the Noorvik-Selawik winter trail spans a major stream that often has overflow or open water. ...................................................................................................................... 1-28
Figure 2-1 Moose expanded their range into the Selawik valley in the 1950s and have since become a subsistence food for local residents. Photo by Chris Zimmerman. ............................................................................................. 2-4
Figure 2-2. Selawik residents frequently harvest whitefish with nets under the ice in early winter. Photo by Susan Georgette. .................................................... 2-9
Figure 2-3. Students learn to cut and dry fish during the annual Selawik Science-Culture Camp. ......................................................................................... 2-14
Figure 2-4. Dried fish is a staple food in the region. This home-made smoker helps to keep flies away. ...................................................................................... 2-48
Figure 2-5. The Selawik refuge maintains an administrative cabin for field projects near the mouth of the Kugarak River. ................................................. 2-60 Table of Contents
xviii Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan
Figure 3-1. The waterways of the refuge are typically ice covered from October to May; this photo of the Selawik River was taken during the break-up season in late May 2006. ................................................................................... 3-5
Figure 3-2. The upland area of the Waring Mountains lies along the refuge’s northern boundary and separates the Selawik valley from the Kobuk valley. ........................................................................................................... 3-7
Figure 3-3. Much of the refuge is characterized by extensive low-lying areas of river channels, sloughs, and thaw lakes, as shown in this photo near Kigaq. ....................................................................................................................... 3-7
Figure 3-4. Thermal springs at the far eastern end of the refuge create an ice-free stream and thawed ground year-round. ..................................................... 3-11
Figure 3-5. Ice wedge polygons formed by ice segregation and the drying and shrinking of sediments. ........................................................................................ 3-12
Figure 3-6. Two of the many mouths of the Kobuk River where it empties into Hotham Inlet, known locally as Kobuk Lake. .................................................. 3-17
Figure 3-7. Aerial view of 2009 fire in Tagagawik River area. Note the patchy mix of burned and unburned areas and the large amount of smoke created by even a relatively small lowland fire. ............................................... 3-18
Figure 3-8. This area on the Kobuk River delta exemplifies the aquatic environment and the mosaic of vegetation typical of much of the refuge. .................................................................................................................... 3-20
Figure 3-9. This mixed spruce forest along the Tagagawik River typifies forested areas along the refuge’s rivers. ............................................................ 3-35
Figure 3-10. Sheefish winter in Hotham Inlet and nearby waters where they are harvested by local residents with under-ice gillnets and jigging gear......................................................................................................................... 3-38
Figure 3-11. Great horned owls are common in parts of the refuge. Photo by Ben Crosby. ........................................................................................................... 3-47
Figure 3-12. Seasonal range for the Western Arctic Caribou Herd (WACH). The WACH migrates through the Selawik refuge each spring and fall. ............... 3-48
Figure 3-13. Animals in the Western Arctic Caribou Herd cross numerous rivers in the region during fall migration movements. Photo by Chris Zimmerman. .......................................................................................................... 3-49
Figure 3-14. Spring moose population estimates for surveys conducted within the Selawik River drainages, 1997–2007, with 80 percent confidence interval (CI). .......................................................................................................... 3-50
Figure 3-15. Moose harvested by non-local hunters in the Selawik River drainage from 1993–2006 based on State harvest ticket data. ........................ 3-51
Figure 3-16. Wolves were fairly common on the Selawik refuge in 2010, especially in the hills and along the upper river. Photo by Chris Zimmerman. .......................................................................................................... 3-52
Figure 3-17. Niliq, site of a former settlement and trading post along the Selawik River. On USGS maps, this site is spelled “Nillik” and shown at an incorrect location. ............................................................................ 3-64
Figure 3-18. The community of Noorvik sits atop a high bluff along the Kobuk River near the head of the river delta. ............................................................... 3-66
Figure 3-19. The village of Selawik lines two channels of the Selawik River with bridges linking the separate sections. The river and wet tundra Table of Contents
Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xix
make building roads in the village difficult, so boardwalks are used instead. ................................................................................................................... 3-68
Figure 3-20. The regional center of Kotzebue is situated on a coastal peninsula near the mouth of the Noatak River. .................................................................. 3-70
Figure 3-21. In Selawik, boardwalks serve as the community’s roads. Sections of the aging boardwalks have been replaced beginning in 2008. ......................... 3-71
Figure 3-22. Ice roads, such as this one near Selawik in spring 2009, are built from time to time to haul gravel, move heavy equipment, or transport goods and fuel. ...................................................................................... 3-72
Figure 3-23. Commercial fishermen in Kotzebue Sound sell their salmon catch to a buyer in the town of Kotzebue. ........................................................................ 3-73
Figure 3-24. Hunters wait for seals during freeze-up in front of Kotzebue. ........................ 3-80
Figure 3-25. Number of big game transporters and air taxi operators at Selawik National Wildlife Refuge, 1993–2009. ................................................................. 3-82
Figure 3-26. Tripods with reflector tape mark this trail across the tundra between Selawik and Noorvik. ........................................................................... 3-83
Figure 3-27. Number of transported hunters at Selawik National Wildlife Refuge, 1993-2009. ................................................................................................ 3-84
Figure 3-28. Number of moose harvested by transported hunters at Selawik National Wildlife Refuge, 1993–2009. ................................................................ 3-85
Figure 3-29. Number of caribou harvested by transported hunters at Selawik National Wildlife Refuge, 1993–2009. ................................................................ 3-85
Figure 3-30. Sand dune habitat near the Waring Mountains. ................................................ 3-89
Figure 3-31. The upper Selawik River flows through an area of mixed forest and tundra. Photo by Ben Crosby. ............................................................................. 3-93
Figure 3-32. Upper Selawik River retrogressive thaw slump................................................ 3-94
Figure 3-33. The slow-moving lower Selawik River drains a huge wetlands complex that provides ideal habitat for fish, birds, and other wildlife. ................................................................................................................... 3-95
Figure 3-34. Entrance to the Selawik refuge office in Kotzebue. .......................................... 3-97
Tables
Table 2-1. Activities, public uses, commercial activities or uses, and facilities by management category. .................................................................................... 2-63
Table 2-2. Comparison of alternatives by major planning issue and budget and staff requirements. ................................................................................................ 2-97
Table 2-3. Differences between current management direction from the 1987 Selawik Plan (Alternative A) and the new management direction proposed in this Plan (including Alternatives B and C). ................................. 2-101
Table 3-1. Surface land status of the Selawik refuge as of November 11, 2009. ................ 3-2
Table 3-2. Temperature and precipitation data from Selawik River Remote Automated Weather Station (RAWS) 1991–2008 (Source: Western Regional Climate Center, http://www.raws.dri.edu/cgi-bin/rawMAIN.pl?akASEL). ................................................................................... 3-4
Table 3-3. Landcover classes and subclasses derived from 1981 Landsat 3 imagery (Kirk and Markon 1989). ....................................................................... 3-27 Table of Contents
xx Selawik National Wildlife Refuge Draft Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan
Table 3-4. Areal extent of vegetation classes within Selawik National Wildlife Refuge (Jorgenson et al. 2009). ........................................................................... 3-28
Table 3-5. Areal extent of ecotype classes within Selawik National Wildlife Refuge (Jorgenson et al. 2009). ........................................................................... 3-29
Table 3-6. Comparison of vegetation class totals between two landcover mapping efforts on the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge. .............................. 3-30
Table 3-7. Iñupiaq place names for select features and sites on Selawik Refuge. ................................................................................................................... 3-63
Table 3-8. Population of communities in the Selawik refuge area, 1960–2008. ................ 3-65
Table 3-9. Rivers described for Selawik refuge. ................................................................. 3-93
Table F-1. Mileage of state-claimed RS-2477 rights-of-way within Selawik National Wildlife Refuge. ......................................................................................F-4
Table H-1. Plant species of the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge ..................................... H-1
Table H-2. Community and vegetation types of the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge ................................................................................................................... H-15
Table H-3. Definitions of land cover classes in the Selawik refuge (Kirk and Markon 1989)........................................................................................................ H-17
Table H-4. Fishes of the Selawik Refuge and surrounding area ....................................... H-18
Table H-5. Birds of the Selawik refuge and surrounding area .......................................... H-20
Table H-6. Bird species of potential concern at Selawik refuge and surrounding area ........................................................................................................................ H-26
Table H-7. Land mammals of the Selawik National Wildlife Refuge ............................... H-28
Table H-8. Marine mammals of the Selawik refuge area, including Kotzebue Sound and the Chukchi Sea ................................................................................ H-29