Summary Comprehensive Conservation Plan Togiak National Wildlife Refuge

              Summary Comprehensive Conservation Plan
Togiak National Wildlife Refuge
September 2009
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
U.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.
National Wildlife Refuge System 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
Cover photograph: USFWS. Pacific Walrus use beaches around Cape Peirce and on
Hagemeister Island as haulout areas to rest between feeding forays. These beaches are
surrounded by sheer cliffs giving the walrus protection from predators.
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.
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Kagati Lake Region.
USFWS
Togiak Comprehensive
Conservation Plan
Comprehensive Conservation Plans (CCPs) provide broad policy
guidance and establish overall management direction. They ensure that
management actions and refuge uses comply with the purposes for which a
refuge was established and with other legal mandates such as the mission
of the National Wildlife Refuge System. They define long-term goals and
objectives toward which refuge management activities are directed.
ANILCA of 1980, as amended, directs us, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (Service), to prepare and, from time to time, to revise a
comprehensive conservation plan for each refuge in Alaska. In September
2008, Regional Director Thomas Melius signed the Finding of No
Significant Impact (FONSI) for the revised CCP for Togiak National
Wildlife Refuge (Togiak Refuge, Refuge), adopting the Service’s preferred
Alternative 1. The revised CCP updates and replaces the management
direction for the Refuge adopted in the 1987 CCP. The 2008 CCP will be in
effect for the next 15 years. This document summarizes the 2008 revised
CCP for Togiak Refuge.
Refuge Description
Togiak Refuge covers 4.7 million acres, including the 2.3 million acre Togiak
Wilderness which Congress designated to preserve the pristine character
of the land and the wildlife that depend on it.
The Pacific walrus is one of 48
mammal species occurring on Togiak
Refuge.
USFWS USFWS
USFWS
Salmon swimming upstream to spawn.
Common murres at Cape Peirce.
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The Togiak Refuge includes coastal areas in Bristol Bay and Kuskokwim
Bay. Mountainous upland areas define watersheds for several major river
systems. The diversity and abundance of the fish and wildlife resources
within Togiak Refuge make this area unique and a valuable part of the
National Wildlife Refuge System.
There are more than 1,500 miles of streams and rivers and many deep, clear
lakes providing abundant fish habitat within the refuge. Five species of
Pacific salmon return from the ocean to the streams where they hatched
within Togiak Refuge. Chinook arrive first, starting in April or May. Coho
close the season with a last run in October. More than a million salmon
spawn here each year. Dolly Varden also move between saltwater and the
freshwater streams within the refuge where they spawn and spend the
winter.
Many other kinds of fish spend their entire lives within the Refuge,
including rainbow trout, arctic char, arctic grayling, northern pike, lake
trout, Alaska blackfish, sticklebacks and several kinds of whitefish.
Birds flock to Togiak Refuge from four continents to nest and raise their
young or feed and rest while migrating. Some birds, such as the willow
ptarmigan, bald eagle, northern hawk owl and common raven, stay all year.
Nearly half of Alaska’s 105 land and marine mammal species are found on or
near the Refuge because of the diversity of habitats from mountain ridges
to ocean waters. These include caribou, brown bear, wolf, wolverine, lynx,
arctic fox, Steller sea lion, harbor seal, and Pacific walrus.
More than 500 species of plants grow on the Refuge in a variety of
habitats that include fresh and saltwater wetlands, open water, meadows,
mountains, tundra, and forests of spruce and cottonwood.
Lands administered by the Togiak Refuge have been inhabited by Alaska
Native peoples for thousands of years. Today, subsistence use of the Refuge
remains important both in terms of the amount of use and its importance to
local residents. The salmon runs are the driving force for the region’s
ecosystem and the basis for both commercial and recreational fishing
activities. More recently, the Refuge has become widely known for
outstanding angling and wildlife-viewing opportunities in a wilderness
setting.
Fish are mainly caught using nets
during the ice-free season. Other
methods are ice fi shing, rod and reel,
and spears.
Berry picking at Goodnews Bay.
USFWS
A Long History
Goodglick/USFWS
Archaeological evidence suggests
that areas within Togiak Refuge
have been continuously occupied
for at least 2,000 years.
Today, the local Native peoples,
collectively known as Yup’ik
Eskimos, continue the traditions
of their ancestors by maintaining
their cultural beliefs and following
a subsistence hunting and
gathering way of life.
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Refuge Establishment
January 20, 1969, the Secretary of the Interior issued a Public Land
Order (PLO), withdrawing approximately 249,022 acres to establish Cape
Newenham National Wildlife Refuge. With this order, the Service assumed
its fi rst refuge management responsibilities in the area. With the passage
of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act in 1980, Cape
Newenham was combined with other lands to form the Togiak National
Widlife Refuge.
Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge encompasses 11 previously
existing refuges and added public lands on islands, including Hagemeister
Island. Management of Hagemeister Island has been transferred
adminsitratively to Togiak Refuge, which shares similar resources. This
CCP applies to the Togiak Refuge and Hagemeister Island of the Alaska
Maritime Refuge. In this summary, the two units will be referred to as
Togiak Refuge or the Refuge.
Refuge Purposes
The Cape Newenham National Wildlife Refuge designated in 1969 was
given the broad purpose “. . . for the protection of wildlife and their habitat
. . .” in Public Land Order 4583. dated Jan. In addition, Sections 303(1)
(B) and 303(6)(B) of ANILCA set forth the purposes for which Alaska
Maritime and Togiak Refuge (including the former Cape Newenham
Refuge) were established and shall be managed, including the following:
(i) To conserve fi sh and wildlife populations and habitats in
their natural diversity, including the following:
[Alaska Maritime Refuge] marine mammals, marine birds
and other migratory birds, the marine resources upon which
they rely, bears, caribou, and other mammals;
[Togiak Refuge] salmonids, marine birds and mammals,
migratory birds, and large mammals (including their
restoration to historic levels);
(ii) To fulfi ll the international treaty obligations of the United
States with respect to fi sh and wildlife and their habitats;
(iii) To provide, in a manner consistent with purposes set
forth in subparagraphs (i) and (ii), the opportunity for
continued subsistence uses by local residents;
(iv) [Alaska Maritime Refuge] To provide, in a manner
consistent with subparagraphs (i) and (ii), a program of
national and international scientifi c research on marine
resources; and
(v) [Alaska Maritime Refuge] (iv) [Togiak Refuge] to
ensure, to the maximum extent practicable and in a manner
consistent with the purposes set forth in paragraph (i), water
quality and necessary water quantity within the Refuge.
The purpose of the Togial Wilderness area is to secure an enduring resource
of wilderness, to protect and preserve the wilderness character of areas
within the National Wilderness Resource Preservation System, and to
administer this wilderness for the use and enjoyment of the American
people in a way that will leave it unimpaired for future use and enjoyment
as wilderness (Section 2(a) of the Wilderness Act of 1964).
P.Walsh/USFWS
Refuge biologist fi tting a caribou calf
with a radio collar. Transmissions from
the collars help determine answers
to many population and behavior
questions.
USFWS
River within the Togiak Wilderness
area.
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Refuge Vision
The Togiak Refuge will continue to be a healthy functioning ecosystem
where fi sh and wildlife populations and their habitats exist in an
environment primarily affected by the forces of nature. Current and future
generations will have opportunities to participate in a variety of fi sh- and
wildlife-dependent activities that emphasize self-reliance, solitude, and a
close relationship with the environment. The public will gain an
understanding of the Refuge on natural, cultural, and scientifi c levels in
order to appreciate the importance of its protection and preservation for
future generations.
Refuge Goals and Objectives
The Togiak Refuge vision statement and purposes provide the framework
for developing management goals and objectives. Goals are broad
statements of what we would like the Refuge to be in the future. Objectives
are statements of what the Refuge wants to accomplish. The refuge
staff developed six goals; several objectives were identifi ed for each goal.
Objectives identifi ed for one goal often apply to other goals. To avoid
duplication, each objective is listed under only one goal. The order of the
objectives does not imply priority.
Cooperation with State and Federal agencies and other organizations is
a critical component of most objectives. This cooperation can take many
forms ranging from reviewing and revising study plans to cooperating on
data collection and reports.
Goal 1. Ecosystem, Habitat, and Fish and Wildlife Management:
Manage refuge habitats and wildlife to ensure the health
and integrity of native ecosystems by developing long-term
ecological inventory and monitoring programs and a
collaborative research program, which incorporate data
collection to evaluate the effects of climate change.
Objectives:
1.1 Complete the Togiak Refuge Fish and Wildlife Inventory and Monitoring
Plan within three years of adoption of this plan.
Rationale: The Togiak Refuge Fish and Wildlife Inventory and Monitoring
Plan should be updated in three years to refl ect new techniques, methods,
protocols, and technology. Where possible, common approaches will be
used to produce a synergistic effect in cooperation with ADF&G, Native
organizations, and others.
1.2 Continue to update our Geographic Information System database
management and mapping system with plant and wildlife communities and
management layers.
Rationale: It is critical that we store and analyze data in such a manner
that it will be available to a wide variety of users now and in the future.
1.3 By 2015, conduct an external biological review of the Refuge to
determine if biological strategies in the Fish and Wildlife Inventory and
Monitoring Plan are resulting in good science and sound management
practices.
Rationale: The integrity of the Service and the confi dence of the public in
Refuge biologists tagging fi sh. Each tag
has a unique number. When fi shermen
catch a tagged fi sh, they are encouraged
to return the tag with information about
where and when the fi sh was caught.
L.Barnes/USFWS USFWS
Monitoring of refuge resources is
particularly important during changing
ecological conditions, including climate
change.
management decisions depend on conducting good science. A peer review of
our biological program will provide an objective evaluation of our strengths
and weaknesses.
1.4 Conduct annual reviews and evaluations of biological projects to
determine their effectiveness in meeting refuge management and customer
service needs.
Rationale: Changing ecological conditions, including global climate
change, demand that we periodically review our biology program to make
improvements, cease projects that are no longer needed, or add projects to
address current situations.
1.5 Collect traditional ecological knowledge of historic wildlife occurrences to
gain an understanding of past ecological conditions and provide a framework
for current investigations.
Rationale: Local elders possess historical knowledge of species occurrence,
abundance, and distribution which will help focus and direct future studies.
The data will be incorporated into a searchable database that will be
available to other agencies and Native organizations.
1.6 Conduct surveys of vertebrates, invertebrates, plant species, and habitat
associations; and monitor priority species.
Rationale: A continuous fl ow of information is needed to ensure the
maintenance of ecological health on Togiak Refuge. This is particularly
important when ecological conditions appear to be in fl ux due to global
climate change. Unknown ecosystem components must be inventoried
and known components must be monitored for change. All ecological
information will include a spatial aspect and will be maintained in the
Refuge Geographic Information System.
1.7 Collect information on waterbodies within the Refuge needed to
maintain the necessary water quantity and quality for fi sh, wildlife, and
their habitats.
Rationale: Clean water in suffi cient quantities is critical for all species
of plants and animals (including humans) found on the Refuge. Nutrient
recycling that occurs through refuge waterways is important to proper
ecosystem functioning.
1.8 Complete a revision of the Togiak Refuge Fisheries Management Plan
within two years of adoption of this plan to refl ect management goals and
objectives.
Rationale: The Togiak Refuge Fisheries Management Plan should be
updated to refl ect new techniques, methods, protocols, and technology.
Where possible, we will work cooperatively with ADF&G, Native
organizations, and others to produce a synergistic effect.
1.9 Develop an Environmental Monitoring Plan that incorporates an
ecosystems model for the Togiak Refuge and its surrounding environment
to better illustrate relationships among fi sh, wildlife, plant, habitat, and
public use.
Rationale: Understanding climate change effects requires development of
an Environmental Monitoring Plan that incorporates an understanding of
the refuge ecosystems and the best approaches to long-term data collection.
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Sport fishing occurs at different
times of the year, but mainly during
the summer when adult salmon are
returning to spawn.
Larry Barnes/USFWS
Scott Ayers/USFWS
Subsistence gillnetting at Togiak Bay.
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Goal 2. Public Use: Provide quality fish and wildlife oriented
recreation, subsistence, and interpretive and educational
opportunities that promote stewardship of southwest Alaska
wildlife and its habitats.
Rationale: Humans use the natural resources of the Togiak Refuge in a
variety of ways, including subsistence hunting and gathering activities,
commercial uses, and consumptive and non-consumptive recreational uses.
All are legitimate uses authorized by various legal mandates, but all have
the potential to negatively affect ecological health. Managers are charged
with ensuring that human uses of Refuge resources do not result in long-term
changes to ecosystem form, function, or structure. To this end, the
Togiak Refuge will identify and monitor current human uses, analyze
proposed uses, and monitor and manage these uses through education,
regulation, and enforcement.
Objectives:
2.1 Complete revision of the Togiak Refuge Public Use Management Plan
that will guide management of guided and unguided public use on the
Refuge.
2.2 Complete a Public Use Monitoring Plan that will establish standards
for social and biological impacts related to public uses. This plan should
be completed within five years of adoption of the revised Public Use
Management Plan.
Rationale: The Togiak Refuge Public Use Monitoring Plan should establish
standards and the management actions needed to maintain those standards.
It should reflect new techniques, methods, protocols, and information needs
as use changes.
2.3 Provide the opportunity for rural residents engaged in a subsistence
way of life to continue to do so.
2.4 Ensure that public use programs are consistent with maintaining the
natural diversity of refuge resources and habitats.
2.5 Provide public use programs that minimize possible conflicts between
and among subsistence, recreational, and commercial users.
2.6 Provide for a range of quality fish and wildlife-dependent recreational
opportunities, including wilderness areas that emphasize naturalness,
solitude, and primitive recreation.
USFWS
Refuge interpreter talks about birds
with a headstart class.
Aaron Collins/USFWS
Caribou from two different herds depend on habitats within the Togiak National
Wildlife Refuge. Local people, in turn, depend on moose and caribou as a high
quality source of food.
2.7 Continue the development of a visitor contact station at the Dillingham
Airport, including exhibits related to refuge resources, in partnership with
local agencies and organizations.
Rationale: Refuge Rangers need a location to contact visitors in Dillingham
before they visit the Refuge. Most non-local visitors fl y through Dillingham
on their way to the Refuge, some without ever leaving the airport. A
contact station at the airport would facilitate providing information to
refuge visitors about various themes and issues such as wildlife viewing,
“Leave No Trace” camping, etc.
2.8 Develop and implement an environmental education program that will
result in a greater understanding and appreciation of refuge fl ora, fauna,
and habitats.
Goal 3. Resource Protection: Protect the integrity of the natural
and cultural resources of the refuge.
Rationale: The lands and waters of the Togiak Refuge are healthy.
Ecological processes are relatively intact, and the impact of man is
relatively minor. Therefore, rather than focusing on the restoration of
altered ecosystems, the management of Togiak Refuge relates to protecting
existing conditions. Togiak Refuge will continue to actively work to assure
ecological health by monitoring the state of individual components, such as
water resources, plant communities, fi sh and wildlife species and cultural
resources. When threats develop that jeopardize elements of ecological
health, management will work to mitigate those threats.
Objectives:
3.1 Identify and safeguard key areas.
Rationale: All parts of the Togiak Refuge are not equally important
in terms of ecological value. Some areas, even if relatively small, have
tremendous importance to various plant and animal species, and thus
warrant special attention.
Visitors often travel by airplane on
fl oats to access remote areas in the
Refuge.
Spotted Saxifrage. Over 500 species of
vascular plants have been identifi ed at
Togiak Refuge.
USFWS
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USFWS
3.2 Protect fi sh and wildlife resources to prevent changes from their natural
species diversity and abundance.
Rationale: Human activities can have signifi cant impacts on natural
resources. Many people rely on refuge resources for their livelihood, from
subsistence fi sherman to big game guides. Protecting refuge resources from
illegal harvest, over harvest, illegal guiding, and human induced degradation
will help ensure that resources are available to use and enjoy in the future.
3.3. Conserve and interpret the cultural and historic resources of the refuge.
Rationale: Conserving and interpreting the cultural and historic resources
of the refuge is not only required by law, but also allows the public to
appreciate and value ancient and modern connections of humans to the land.
3.4 Seek funding to acquire lands that were identifi ed as high priority in the
Togiak National Wildlife Refuge Land Protection Plan (USFWS 2000) to
improve resource protection.
3.5 Contribute to local, regional, and global efforts for conserving migratory
species of fi sh and wildlife.
Rationale: The Togiak Refuge’s role in conservation of natural resources
extends beyond its borders. Togiak Refuge managers have a keen interest
in the migratory pathways and the temporary destinations used by the
transitory fi sh and wildlife species occupying the Refuge. The success of
migratory species is a function of the weakest link in the chain of air, land,
and water habitats through which they pass or reside. By maintaining the
health and integrity of native ecosystems, Togiak Refuge will ensure its
strength in this chain. The Refuge will assist larger efforts in migratory
species management by monitoring the use of the refuge by those species
and actively supporting monitoring throughout the migratory pathways.
Goal 4. Wilderness: Preserve the wilderness character of the
Togiak National Wildlife Refuge Wilderness area.
Rationale: Togiak Refuge manages the second largest Wilderness area
in the National Wildlife Refuge System. Wilderness areas enjoy special
protection under Federal law and Service policy, all of which is focused on
ensuring a continuation of truly natural conditions. The Togiak Refuge
will actively pursue its wilderness management responsibilities and will
Caribou hunting in winter.
USFWS
Rafting is a common way for visitors to enjoy the Refuge.
USFWS
Dunlin typically nest in wet meadow
tundra with low ridges, vegetation
hummocks, and nearby ponds. During
migration and winter, they prefer
mudfl ats, but can also be seen on sandy
beaches and coastal grasslands.
USFWS USFWS
River ranger installing the Togiak
Wilderness Area boundary sign.
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Mountains with numerous interspersed lakes are one of the features of Togiak
Refuge
USFWS
Rob McDonald/USFWS
Sightings of these Northern Hawk Owl
chicks near Dillingham helped confi rm
for the fi rst time that this bird species
breeds in this area.
Refuge ranger helping anglers fi nding
places on the map.
USFWS
carefully consider the compatibility of all proposed access into or uses of the
Togiak Wilderness area, including the administrative access by refuge staff.
Objectives:
4.1 Within three years of adoption of this plan, complete a Wilderness
Stewardship Plan for the Togiak Wilderness.
4.2 Promote environmental ethics and “Leave No Trace” techniques so that
visitors will understand the value of wilderness, and future visitors will
enjoy an unimpaired wilderness experience.
4.3 Perform minimum requirements analyses of all administrative activities
planned to occur within the Togiak Wilderness area when such activities
have potential to affect wilderness values.
Goal 5. Refuge Operations: Develop and maintain support
mechanisms and infrastructure to achieve management goals.
Rationale: Stewardship of Togiak Refuge’s natural resources requires a
constantly changing infrastructure of personnel, material, and fi nancial
resources. This organizational structure has evolved over the past three
decades, growing steadily as the demands on the Refuge’s resources have
grown. Anticipating requirements is crucial to proactive management;
thus, it is essential that the Refuge actively work to develop strategies to
maintain support from both within and outside the Service and to maintain
and appropriately modernize its infrastructure.
Objectives:
5.1 Continue to fund the Refuge Information Technician program.
5.2 Continue a proactive safety program which surpasses legal requirements
for administrative facilities and management operations at Togiak Refuge.
5.3 Provide regular technical training to develop and maintain the job
9
USFWS
The Togiak Cabin near its completion.
competencies of all refuge staff.
5.4 Acquire and maintain adequate facilities, equipment, vehicles,
watercraft, and aircraft to remain abreast of increasing demands from the
public for information and services from Togiak Refuge.
5.5 Meet the refuge needs for pilots, biological staff, public contact staff, and
administrative staff.
5.6 Direct construction of refuge fi eld and headquarters facilities that foster
effi cient management of the Refuge and service to the public.
5.7 Maintain equipment and buildings used in all aspects of refuge
management, including habitat, wildlife, and public use.
Goal 6. Cooperation: Maintain a leadership role in the
management of native ecosystems in southwest Alaska.
Rationale: The ecosystems comprising the Togiak Refuge do not end at
the refuge borders; thus cooperation with surrounding land managers is
essential. To this end, Togiak Refuge will continue to actively encourage the
full participation of all interested parties in cooperative endeavors.
Objectives:
6.1 Organize and participate in local, regional, state, national, and
international partnerships, groups, and associations pursuing common
natural resource management goals.
6.2 Coordinate refuge activities with public and private entities (including
tribal governments; educational systems; Federal, state and local
governments; and private industry) within and adjacent to Togiak
Refuge.
Refuge Management
Legal and Policy Guidance
Management of refuges in Alaska is governed by Federal laws including
the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act and ANILCA,
regulations implementing these laws, treaties, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service Policy, and principles of sound resource management. These may
address the potential activities that may occur on refuges. The Service
developed management guidelines which apply to all Alaska refuges with
some variation for specifi c areas.
Management of Togiak Refuge during the life of this plan will generally
continue to follow the same course as under the 1987 Conservation Plan.
The new vision statement and the goals and objectives developed by the
refuge staff are incorporated into the management direction for Togiak
Refuge.
Management Categories
A management category defi nes the level of human activity appropriate
to a specifi c area of the Refuge. Two of the fi ve management categories,
Wilderness and Minimal Management, are applied to Togiak Refuge.
Minimal management maintains the natural environment with very little
Collaboration between stakeholders
is crucial to successfull refuge
management.
Fireweed along the Togiak River.
USFWS USFWS
10
evidence of human-caused change. Designated Wilderness is managed
under the Wilderness Act of 1964 and the exceptions provided by ANILCA.
Wilderness encourages having a broadened perspective of the refuge
landscape, one that extends beyond just managing it as wildlife habitat.
Wilderness is managed as an area “retaining its primeval character
and influence”. Some activities are generally not allowed in designated
Wilderness, including roads, motor vehicles, motorboats, motorized
equipment, aircraft landings, structures, and most surface disturbing
activities. Provisions of ANILCA, however, give exceptions for specific
purposes, such as allowing snowmachines, motorboat and airplane access for
traditional activities.
Special Management
Cape Peirce Wildlife Viewing Area
The 1991 Togiak National Wildlife Refuge Public Use Management
Plan established the Cape Peirce Wildlife Viewing Area. This area is
managed within the Minimal Management category, but has additional
guidance regarding public use and facilities. Togiak Refuge will continue
environmental education programs such as the Cape Peirce cultural camp.
The River Ranger program and airport contacts will continue to provide
interpretive and educational information to refuge visitors. Contact the
Refuge for more information.
Appropriate Use and Compatibility Determinations
Fish and Wildlife Service policy states that all uses of a national wildlife
refuge which the Service has jurisdiction over must be determined to
be appropriate uses. The following uses have been found appropriate:
commercial transporter services, subsistence activities, commercially
guided recreational fishing and hunting services, winter snowmachine
trail marking and marker maintenance, Native allotment surveys, reburial
of archaeological human remains, scientific research, State of Alaska
management activities, and activities associated with priority public uses.
The Refuge Administration Act required any use of a national wildlife
refuge to be compatible with the Refuge System Mission and the purposes
for which the refuge was established. Compatibility Determinations for the
following activities are included in the Plan: subsistence activities; wildlife
observation, photography, environmental education and environmental
interpretation; recreational fishing and hunting; commercially guided
recreational fishing and hunting services; trail marking and marker
maintenance; Native Allotment Surveys; reburial of archaeological
human remains; scientific research; State of Alaska activities; trapping;
and helicopter use to support authorized activities by other government
agencies.
Subsistence
Providing the opportunity for continued subsistence use by local residents
is one of the purposes of Togiak Refuge. Rural Alaska residents engaged
in a subsistence way of life will be allowed to continue using resources
within the Refuge for traditional purposes. These resources include fish
and wildlife, house logs and firewood and other plant materials. Access to
refuge lands by traditional means will be allowed for subsistence purposes,
subject to reasonable regulation. Traditional means include snowmachines,
motorboats, dog teams, and other means of surface transportation
traditionally used by local rural residents.
USFWS
Wildlife Viewing is becoming
increasingly popular. Here,
Dillingham Boy Scouts observe
Pacific Walrus at Cape Pierce as part
of an environmental education camp
sponsored by Togiak NWR.
Cutting salmon with a traditional Ulu
knife.
USFWS
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Sue Matthews/USFWS
Harbor Seal.
Helicopter Use
Helicopters may be authorized to land on refuge lands for a number of
purposes such as geologic hazards evaluations, fisheries and wildlife
management, and fire suppression. Generally, a permit is required for any
helicopter landing. Helicopter landings for recreational purposes are not
allowed on Togiak Refuge.
Public Use Management Plan
A Public Use Management Plan (PUMP) was developed for the Refuge
in 1991. That plan is being revised concurrently with the revision of the
Comprehensive Plan and will be available as a separate publication.
Management Activities Table
This table gives an overview, by management category, of activities,
uses, and facilities that may be allowed in Minimal Management and
in Wilderness. The table has been adapted to show only activites and
categories that apply to Togiak Refuge. For the complete table and more
detail refer to the full Comprehensive Conservation Plan or contact Togiak
Refuge.
The following are definitions of terms used in the table:
Allowed—Activity, use, or facility is allowed under existing NEPA analysis,
appropriate use findings, compatibility determinations, and applicable
laws and regulations of the Service, other federal agencies and the State of
Alaska.
May be allowed—Activity, use, or facility may be allowed subject to site-specific
NEPA analysis, an appropriate use finding (when required), a
specific compatibility determination (when required), and compliance with
all applicable laws and regulations of the Service, other Federal agencies
and the State of Alaska.
May be authorized—Activity, use, or facility may be allowed; a special use
permit or other authorization is required.
USFWS
Fireweed along the Togiak River.
Fishing camp along Goodnews Lake.
Tundra vegetation in fall colors.
USFWS
12
Not allowed—Activity, use, or facility is not allowed.
NEPA analysis—All activities, uses, and facilities proposed for a refuge
that have the potential to result in significant effects on the environment
require an analysis of potential environmental impacts under the National
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This analysis may be documented as
a categorical exclusion (CE), an environmental assessment (EA), or an
environmental impact statement (EIS), depending on the nature of the
proposed project.
Appropriate Use—All uses over which the Service has jurisdiction must
be determined to be appropriate following direction in Service Manual
630 FW 1. Hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, and
environmental education and interpretation are considered appropriate by
national policy with no further analysis required.
Compatibility—All activities, uses, and facilities allowed on a refuge, except
management actions undertaken by or for the Service, must be compatible
with the purposes of the refuge and the mission of the Refuge System.
The analysis that occurs results in a refuge compatibility determination.
Management activities undertaken by the Service or by volunteers,
cooperators, or contractors working for the Service, with limited exception,
are exempt from compatibility review (Part 603 of the Service Manual).
Regulations—All activities, uses, and facilities allowed on a refuge must
comply with any applicable regulations, as published in the Code of Federal
Regulations. Regulations are developed by the Service through a public
process to implement the legal authorities under which the Service manages
the Refuge System. For some activities, other Federal agency and/or State
regulations may also apply.
Temporary—A continuous period of time not to exceed 12 months, except as
specifically provided otherwise. Special-use permits or other authorizations
may prescribe a longer period of time, but the structures or other human-made
improvements need to be readily and completely dismantled and
removed from the site when the period of authorized use terminates.
Area or time restrictions—All activities and uses allowed on a refuge may be
restricted in certain areas or at certain times at the discretion of the refuge
manager and with the appropriate level of public involvement by emergency
(short-term) or permanent regulation, if necessary, to protect refuge
resources or human health and safety.
Management emergencies—Activities, uses, and facilities not allowed on a
refuge or in specific management categories may be allowed if naturally
occurring or human-caused actions adversely affect refuge resources or
threaten human health and safety.
Togiak Refuge contains prime habitat
for several fish species. Rainbow trout
are year-round residents of the Refuge.
USFWS
Interesting shapes are formed in the sandy beaches around Cape Peirce through the combined action of rain, wind, and waves.
Lisa Haggblom/USFWS
13
ACTIVITY MINIMAL MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT of WILDERNESS
*All activities in designated Wilderness will be subject to a minimum requirements analysis.
ECOSYSTEM, HABITAT, AND FISH AND WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT
Ecosystem and Landscape Management
Collecting Information on and Monitoring
Ecosystem Components
Data gathering, monitoring, and maintaining
a comprehensive database of selected
ecosystem components (plants, animals, fish,
water, air).
Allowed Allowed*
Research and Management
Access and collection of data necessary for
management decisions or to further science
by the Service.
Allowed
Allowed*
Access and collection of data necessary for
management decisions or to further science
by ADF&G.
Allowed Allowed*
Access and collection of data necessary for
management decisions or to further science
by other researchers.
May be authorized May be authorized*
Research and Management Facilities
May be permanent or temporary structures
or camps including weirs, counting towers
and sonar counters.
May be allowed May be allowed*
Fish and Wildlife Habitat Management
Describing, Locating, and Mapping Habitats
Development of quantitative, written, and
graphic descriptions of fish and wildlife
habitat including water, food, and shelter
components.)
Allowed
Allowed*
Habitat Management
Mechanical Treatment Activities such as
cutting, crushin,g or mowing of vegetation;
water control structures; fencing; artificial
nest structures.
Not allowed; with exceptions
Not allowed; with exceptions*
Chemical Treatment Use of chemicals to
remove or control nonnative species. May be allowed May be allowed*
Manual Treatment Use of hand tools to
remove, reduce, or modify hazardous plant
fuels or exotic plant species, or to modify
habitats (e.g., remove beaver dams).
May be allowed May be allowed*
14
ACTIVITY MINIMAL MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT of WILDERNESS
*All activities in designated Wilderness will be subject to a minimum requirements analysis.
Aquatic Habitat Modifications
Activities such as stream bank restoration,
passage structures, fish barriers, or
removal of obstacles that result in physical
modification of aquatic habitats to maintain
or restore native fish species.
May be allowed May be allowed*
Fire Management—Prescribed Fires and
Wildland Fire Use
Fire ignited by management actions or
planned use of naturally occurring fires to
meet management objectives.
May be allowed May be allowed*
Fire Management—Fire Suppression
Management actions intended to protect
identified resources from a fire, extinguish a
fire, or alter a fire’s direction of spread.
Allowed Allowed
Nonnative and Pest Plant Control
Monitoring, extirpation, control, removal,
and/or relocation and other management
practices for pest and nonnative plant
species.
May be allowed May be allowed*
Water Quality and Quantity Management
Monitoring of water quality and quantity to
identify baseline data and for management
purposes; includes installation of gauging
stations.
Allowed Allowed*
Fish and Wildlife Population Management
Reintroduction of Species
The reintroduction of native species to
restore natural diversity of fish, wildlife and
habitats.
May be allowed May be allowed
Fish and Wildlife Control
The control, relocation, sterilization,
removal, or other management of native
species, including predators, to maintain
natural diversity of fish, wildlife and
habitats; favor other fish or wildlife
populations; protect reintroduced,
threatened, or endangered species; or
restore depleted native populations.
May be allowed May be allowed*
Nonnative Species Management
The removal or control of nonnative species
(including predators).
May be allowed May be allowed*
15
ACTIVITY MINIMAL MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT of WILDERNESS
*All activities in designated Wilderness will be subject to a minimum requirements analysis.
Pest Management and Disease Prevention and
Control
Relocation or removal of organisms that
threaten human health or survival of native
fish, wildlife, or plant species. Management
practices directed at controlling pathogens
that threaten fish, wildlife, and people, such
as rabies and parasite control.
May be allowed May be allowed *
Fishery Restoration
Actions taken to restore fish access to
spawning and rearing habitat, or actions
taken to restore populations to historic
levels. Includes harvest management,
escapement goals, habitat restoration,
stocking, egg incubation boxes, and lake
fertilization.
May be allowed May be allowed*
Fishery Restoration Facilities
Fisheries facilities may be permanent or
temporary and may include hatcheries, fish
ladders, fish passages, fish barriers, and
associated structures.
May be authorized May be authorized*
Fishery Enhancement
Activities applied to a fish stock to
supplement numbers of harvestable fish
to a level beyond what could be naturally
produced based upon a determination or
reasonable estimate of historic levels.
May be allowed May be allowed*
Fishery Enhancement Facilities
May be permanent or temporary and may
include hatcheries, egg incubation boxes,
fish ladders, fish passages, fish barriers, and
associated structures.
May be authorized May be authorized*
Native Fish Introductions
Movement of native fish species within a
drainage on the refuge to areas where they
have not historically existed.
May be allowed May be allowed*
Nonnative Species Introductions
Introduction of species not naturally
occurring within the refuge.
Not allowed Not allowed
SUBSISTENCE
Subsistence Activities
Fishing, Hunting, Trapping, and Berry
Picking
The taking of fish and wildlife and other
natural resources for personal consumption,
as provided by law.
Allowed Allowed
16
ACTIVITY MINIMAL MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT of WILDERNESS
*All activities in designated Wilderness will be subject to a minimum requirements analysis.
SUBSISTENCE
Subsistence Activities
Collection of House Logs and Firewood
Harvesting live standing timber greater
than 3 inches diameter at breast height for
personal or extended family use.
May be authorized May be authorized
Collection of Plant Materials
Harvesting trees less than 3 inches diameter
at breast height, dead standing or downed
timber, grass, bark, and other plant
materials used for subsistence purposes.
Allowed Allowed
Temporary Facilities
Establishment and use of tent platforms,
shelters, and other temporary facilities and
equipment directly related to the taking of
fish and wildlife.
Allowed Allowed
Subsistence Cabins – See Cabins
Subsistence Access – subject to reasonable regulations under provisions of Section 810 of ANILCA
Use of snowmobiles, motorboats, and other
means of surface transportation traditionally
employed for subsistence purposes.
Allowed Allowed
ACCESS
Restrictions subject to provisions of Section 1110 of ANILCA as applicable; see also Subsistence Access section above.
Foot Allowed Allowed
Dogs and Dog Teams Allowed Allowed
Other Domestic Animals
Includes horses, mules, llamas, etc.
Allowed Allowed
Nonmotorized Boats
Includes canoes, kayaks, rafts, etc.
Allowed Allowed
Use of snowmachine, motorboats, airplanes
and nonmotorized surface transportation
methods for traditional activities and for
travel to and from villages and homesites.
Allowed Allowed
Off-Road Vehicles (All-Terrain Vehicles)
Includes air boats and air cushion vehicles.
Not allowed; with exceptions Not allowed; with exceptions
Helicopters
Includes all rotary-wing aircraft.
May be authorized May be authorized
PUBLIC USE, RECREATION, and OUTREACH ACTIVITIES
Also see ACCESS and Commercial Recreation sections.
Hunting, Fishing, Wildlife Observation,
Wildlife Photography, Interpretation and
Environmental Education
Note: All activities listed are priority public
uses.
Allowed Allowed
17
ACTIVITY MINIMAL MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT of WILDERNESS
*All activities in designated Wilderness will be subject to a minimum requirements analysis.
Trapping, Walking, Hiking, Camping at
Undeveloped Sites, and Dog Sledding Allowed Allowed
General Photography
See also COMMERCIAL USES. Allowed Allowed
Outreach Activities Allowed Allowed
Public Use and Recreation Facilities – level of development is consistent with management intent of the category
Designated Off-Road Vehicle (All-Terrain
Vehicle) Trails and Routes Not allowed Not allowed
Cleared Landing Strips and Areas
Includes unimproved areas where airplanes
land. Minor brush cutting or rock removal
by hand is allowed for maintenance.
May be allowed Existing strips allowed to remain;
new strips not allowed*
Constructed Hiking Trails
Includes bridges, boardwalks, trailheads,
and related facilities.
May be allowed May be allowed*
Designated Hiking Routes
Unimproved and unmaintained trails; may
be designated by signs, cairns, and/or on
maps.
Allowed Allowed
Boat Launches and Docks
Designated sites for launching and storing
watercraft or tying up a float plane.
May be allowed May be allowed*
Visitor Contact Facilities
A variety of staffed and unstaffed facilities
providing information on the refuge and its
resources to the public; facilities range from
visitor centers to kiosks and signs.
May be allowed Generally not allowed*
Hardened Campsites
Areas where people can camp that are
accessible by vehicle or on foot but where
the only facilities provided are for public
health and safety and/or resource protection;
may include gravel pads for tents, hardened
trails, and/or primitive toilets.
Allowed Allowed*
Temporary Facilities
Includes tent frames, caches, and other
similar or related facilities; does not include
cabins. See also Subsistence, Commercial
Uses, and Administrative Facilities.
May be authorized May be authorized
Cabins – also other related structures such as outdoor toilets, food caches, storage sheds, and fish drying racks
Public Use Cabin
A cabin administered by the Service and
available for use by the public; intended only
for short-term public recreational use and
occupancy.
Existing cabins allowed to
remain; new cabins may be
allowed
Existing cabins allowed to
remain; new cabins may be
allowed*
18
ACTIVITY MINIMAL MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT of WILDERNESS
*All activities in designated Wilderness will be subject to a minimum requirements analysis.
Administrative Cabin
Any cabin primarily used by refuge staff
or other authorized personnel for the
administration of the refuge.
May be allowed May be allowed
Subsistence Cabin
Any cabin necessary for health and safety
and to provide for the continuation of
ongoing subsistence activities; not for
recreational use.
Existing cabins allowed to
remain; new cabins may be
authorized
Existing cabins allowed to
remain; new cabins may be
authorized
Commercial Cabin
Any cabin which is used in association with
a commercial operation including but not
limited to commercial fishing activities and
recreational guiding services.
Existing cabins allowed to
remain; new cabins may be
authorized
Existing cabins allowed to
remain; new cabins not allowed
Other Cabins
Cabins associated with authorized uses by
other government agencies.
May be authorized May be authorized
Administrative Facilities
Administrative Field Camps
Temporary facilities used by refuge staff
and other authorized personnel to support
individual (generally) field projects; may
include but is not limited to tent frames
and temporary/portable outhouses, shower
facilities, storage/maintenance facilities, and
caches.
May be allowed May be allowed*
Administrative Field Sites
Permanent facilities used by refuge staff
or other authorized personnel for the
administration of the refuge. Includes
administrative cabins and related structures
(see Cabins) and larger multi-facility
administrative sites necessary to support
ongoing field projects, research, and other
management activities. Temporary facilities
to meet short-term needs may supplement
the permanent facilities at these sites.
Use of existing sites allowed,
including replacement of existing
facilities as necessary; new sites
may be allowed
Use of existing sites allowed,
including replacement of existing
facilities as necessary; new sites
may be allowed*
Hazardous Materials Storage
Sites, including appropriate structures
and equipment necessary for the storage
and transfer of fuels and other hazardous
materials used for administrative purposes;
must be in compliance with all federal and
state requirements.
May be allowed May be allowed
Aircraft Hangars and Facilities for Storage of
Aircraft. Not allowed Not allowed*
Boat Launches and Docks
Designated sites for launching and storing
watercraft or tying up a float plane.
May be allowed May be allowed*
19
ACTIVITY MINIMAL MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT of WILDERNESS
*All activities in designated Wilderness will be subject to a minimum requirements analysis.
Radio Repeater Sites
Sites used to maintain radio communications
equipment; may include helispots for access.
May be allowed May be allowed*
COMMERCIAL USES
Except as noted, a special use permit or other authorization is required for economic use of a refuge.
Commercial Recreation – includes all forms of guiding, including those operated by nonprofit, educational, and other noncommercial
groups
Guiding and Outfitting May be authorized May be authorized
Transporting May be authorized May be authorized
Fixed-Wing Air Taxis May be authorized May be authorized
Helicopter Air Taxis Not allowed Not allowed; with exceptions
Mineral Exploration
Surface Geological Studies
Includes surface rock collecting and
geological mapping activities (includes
helicopter or fixed-wing access).
May be authorized Not allowed
Geophysical Exploration and Seismic Studies
Examination of subsurface rock formations
through devices that set off and record
vibrations in the earth. Usually involves
mechanized surface transportation but may
be helicopter supported; includes studies
conducted for the U.S. Department of the
Interior.
May be authorized
Not allowed
Core Sampling
Using helicopter transported motorized
drill rig to extract subsurface rock samples;
does not include exploratory wells; includes
sampling conducted for U.S. Department of
the Interior.
May be authorized
Not allowed
Other Geophysical Studies
Helicopter-supported gravity and magnetic
surveys and other minimal impact activities
that do not require mechanized surface
transportation.
May be authorized
Not allowed
Mineral Development
Oil and Gas Leasing
Leasing, drilling and extraction of oil and
gas for commercial purposes. Includes all
associated above and below ground facilities.
Not allowed Not allowed
20
ACTIVITY MINIMAL MANAGEMENT MANAGEMENT of WILDERNESS
*All activities in designated Wilderness will be subject to a minimum requirements analysis.
Sale of Sand, Gravel, and Other Common
Variety Minerals
Extraction of sand, gravel, and other
saleable minerals for commercial purposes;
includes commercial use by federal, state,
and local agencies.
Not allowed Not allowed
Other Mineral Leasing
Includes the extraction of coal, geothermal
resources, potassium, sodium, phosphate,
sulfur, or other leaseable minerals for
commercial purposes. For cases of national
need, see full Comprehensive Conservation
Plan.
Not allowed Not allowed
Other Commercial Activities
Commercial Filming, Videotaping, and
Audiotaping May be authorized May be authorized
Grazing Not allowed Not allowed
Commercial Fishery Support Facilities
At or below 1979 levels.
Allowed Allowed
Commercial Fishery Support Facilities
Above 1979 levels.
May be authorized Not allowed
Commercial Timber and Firewood Harvest May be authorized Not allowed
Commercial Gathering of Other Refuge
Resources Not allowed Not allowed
Transportation and Utility Systems
Includes transmission lines, pipelines,
telephone and electrical power lines, oil
and gas pipelines, communication systems,
roads, airstrips, and other necessary
related facilities. Does not include facilities
associated with on-refuge oil and gas
development.
May be authorized; would
require a plan amendment Must be authorized by Congress
Navigation Aids and Other Facilities
Includes air and water navigation aids
and related facilities, communication
sites and related facilities, facilities for
national defense purposes and related air/
water navigation aids, and facilities for
weather, climate, and fisheries research
and monitoring; includes both private and
government facilities.
May be authorized May be authorized*
21
Implementation and Monitoring
The Togiak Comprehensive Conservation Plan will be implemented
through specific objectives and various step-down plans. Each step-down
plan has its own focus and revision schedule. Part of the implementation
process is the involvement with partners to further the goals of the Refuge.
Monitoring the outcome of implementation is accomplished by surveys,
inventories, creel censuses, etc., and may lead to amendment or revision of
the Plan.
Goals, Objectives, Strategies, and Adaptive Management
The goals adopted in the plan are intended to guide management of the
Refuge for many years. The objectives and their associated strategies
are concrete steps toward reaching those goals and are an essential part
of implementing this plan. Changing environmental conditions, policies,
budget constraints, new technologies, and opportunities for partnerships
are only a few of the areas where flexibility in management is helpful. As
objectives and strategies are met, opportunities and needs for others will
arise. It is our intention that these sections of the CCP remain dynamic and
responsive to changing management situations while also being a measure
of real progress toward our goals.
Key Step-Down Plans
Step-down management plans deal with specific management subjects.
They describe management strategies and implementation schedules
and provide details necessary to fulfill management goals and objectives
identified in the Comprehensive Conservation Plan. Step-down plans for
the Refuges include the following:
Fisheries Management Plan
The Fisheries Management Plan describes the fishery resource, the
ways in which humans have used the resource, the history of fisheries
management on the Refuge, and major issues and concerns. The plan
provides for continued use of fishery resources by subsistence, commercial,
and recreational users. It provides direction to ensure the conservation of
fishery resources and habitat. It describes objectives and tasks to address
the issues and concerns and assigns priorities and costs for Federal tasks.
The Togiak Refuge Fisheries Management Plan was completed in 1991 and
is scheduled for review in 2010.
Wildlife Inventory and Monitoring Plan
A wildlife inventory and monitoring plan guides the annual program of
wildlife related surveys conducted on the Refuge. This plan supports
Service policy to collect baseline information, monitor critical parameters
and trends, and base management on biologically and statistically sound
data. This plan guides collection of data on species of management concern.
A wildlife inventory plan for the Refuge was completed in 2008.
Public Use Management Plan
In 1991, the Public Use Management Plan for the Togiak Refuge was
L.Barnes/USFWS
Brown bears along the Kanoktok
River.
Rugged mountain tops and clear blue
sky appear in vivid contrast.
USFWS USFWS
Fish weir at Goodnews River.
22
completed and the Refuge began implementation. Since the implementation
of the Public Use Management Plan, several studies have been completed,
data have been collected, wildlife populations have changed, and public use
of the Refuge has changed.
A draft revision of the plan was published in October 2007 in conjunction
with the draft CCP. The final Public Use Management Plan revision is in
progress.
Public Use Monitoring Plan
Because of the complex nature of public uses within the Refuge, a detailed
system for measuring change is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of the
public use program. The Refuge will work with cooperators to identify
important indicators of subsistence and wildlife-dependent recreational
opportunities. The Public Use Monitoring Plan will establish standards
for these indicators and identify management actions to be taken should
these standards be exceeded. Techniques for measuring indicators will be
identified through this step-down plan.
Cultural Resource Management Plan
This plan provides guidance to refuge staff in protecting and managing
cultural resources of the Refuge. The Cultural Resources Management Plan
describes the current state of our knowledge of the prehistory and history of
the region. It includes a list of projects that would fill in gaps in knowledge
or would complete existing work. A cultural resource guide for the Refuge
is scheduled for completion in 2010.
Environmental Monitoring Plan
Refuge staff will develop an ecosystems model for the Togiak Refuge and
its surrounding environment to better illustrate relationships among fish,
wildlife, plant, habitat and public use. Based on this model, the Refuge
will design and implement a comprehensive environmental monitoring
program taking advantage of protocols and methods already accepted by
the National Park Service and others in southwestern Alaska to address
refuge questions and objectives. Upon review of available meteorological
data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the refuge
could establish National Weather Service stations and/or remote automated
weather stations within or adjacent to the Refuge.
Fire Management Plan
The Fire Management Plan describes the fire management activities
that will occur on the Togiak Refuge. The Fire Management Plan is the
framework for all refuge fire management decision-making. Service
policy requires all refuges with vegetation capable of sustaining fire to
develop a fire management plan. The Fire Management Plan describes
the relationship to land management goals and fire policy, wildland
fire management strategies and components, organization and budget,
monitoring and evaluation, public safety, reviews and coordination/
collaboration. Wildland fires occasionally occur within the Refuge and a fire
management plan was completed in 2007.
Caribou males and females carry
antlers.
USFWS
Marmots typically occur in the alpine
tundra.
USFWS
23
Land Protection Plan
A land protection plan focuses on private lands within the refuge
boundaries with the goal of identifying and conserving high-quality habitat
on those lands. The plan guides the Refuge’s land conservation activities
and provides a framework for refuge and private landowner cooperation.
Any action would require mutual consent between the Service and the
private landowner. The plan does not obligate either the Refuge or the
landowners to undertake any of the land-conservation measures identified.
The Refuge must consider management goals, priorities, and the availability
of funds when approached by private landowners with land-conservation
proposals. The Refuge’s land protection plan was completed in 2000, and is
scheduled for review in 2015.
Wilderness Stewardship Plan
This plan is a step-down management plan that provides detailed strategies
and implementation measures for meeting the broader wilderness goals
and objectives identified in the Conservation Plan. The Togiak Wilderness
Stewardship Plan will be completed within three years of adoption of this
plan.
Visitor Services Plan
A visitor services plan guides the management of recreational and
subsistence uses, including hunting, trapping, fishing, guiding, camping,
photography, sightseeing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. It summarizes how
the public was involved in developing issues and alternatives and describes
the alternatives that were developed to manage public use. The previously
completed (1991) Public Use Management Plan and the revision of that plan,
which is in progress will be incorporated into the Visitor Services Plan. A
Visitor Services Plan is scheduled to be initiated after completion of the
Wilderness Stewardship Plan.
Water Resources Plan of Study
A water resources plan guides collection of hydrologic data on waters within
and draining onto the Refuge. Objectives of this plan are to document
the occurrence, quantity, distribution, and movement of surface waters
and to quantify instream water rights needed to maintain and protect fish
and wildlife habitats. The plan describes the water bodies of interest and
the goals, objectives, priorities, and methods of study needed. A water
resources plan for the refuges was developed by the Water Resources
Branch in 1997 and continues to be implemented.
Collection of water quality data was added after the initiation of the 1997
water resource plan. Measurement and analysis of physical, nutrient and
inorganic chemical water quality variables occurred in conjunction with
operating stream gages and was guided by the Water Resources Branch
Quality Assurance Plan for Inorganic Water Quality Assessment in Alaska
Refuges.
Vegetation Inventory and Monitoring Plan
Present descriptions of the vegetation of Togiak Refuge are qualitative and
general. A plan is needed to develop a quantitative understanding of the
vegetation through field inventory. Such a plan includes: describing major
coastal plant communities along representative gradients and identifying
Mountain tops arise above the fog. the main vegetation types.
USFWS
Rivers within the Refuge provide
various levels of navigational
difficulty.
USFWS
Refuge biologist collecting water
sample.
USFWS
24
Partnership Oportunities
Partnerships with other organizations are among the ways in which the
Service fulfills its mission, “Working with others to conserve, protect,
and enhance fish, wildlife, and plants and their habitats for the continuing
benefit of the American people.”
The Refuge exists within a dynamic ecosystem. Fish, wildlife, and
other resources, many of national and international importance, do not
recognize artificial boundaries. In addition, the general public, various
organizations, and other government agencies have interests in the Refuge.
Implementation of many refuge programs requires community involvement
and assistance.
Examples of existing, past, and potential partnerships include the following:
• Biologists of Togiak Refuge and the Alaska Department of Fish and
Game (ADF&G) routinely collaborate to assess status and trends of
Mulchatna caribou, moose, salmon, Dolly Varden, and other species for
which shared concerns for management exist.
• The Nushagak Peninsula caribou herd, which was reintroduced in
1988, is managed in partnership with the Nushagak Caribou Planning
Committee with representatives from five village councils, one village
corporation, Bristol Bay Native Association, and the Alaska Department
of Fish and Game. These groups were instrumental in making the
reintroduction successful. The committee meets to discuss herd
management, harvest allocation, and other issues related to the herd.
• The Mulchatna caribou herd occupies range that in recent years has
encompassed parts of the Togiak Refuge Lake Clark National Park
and Preserve, the Yukon Delta NWR, and BLM land interspersed
throughout the region. In addition to cooperating with ADF&G in the
status assessment and management of this herd, the refuge partners
with the other affected Federal agencies and refuges that share this
resource.
• The Natural Resources Department of the Bristol Bay Native
Association (BBNA) works with the refuge in accomplishing a number
of mutual objectives. Summer interns employed by BBNA provide
valuable assistance on refuge projects. A traditional and ecological
knowledge project undertaken by the refuge with funding provided
by the Office of Subsistence Management (OSM) has received broad
support from BBNA including funding and staff time to complete
the project. A partnership with BBNA to complete OSM funded
subsistence projects has been undertaken in the past, and continues
to be a component of any project for which the Refuge shares mutual
objectives of information collection.
• The Togiak Refuge serves as the setting for a number of universities
conducting studies on climate change. The Refuge has partnered with
the University of Colorado, Northern Arizona University, Mt. Holyoke
College, and the University of Chicago to conduct analysis and long term
climate studies to help assess how flora and fauna may have changed
over time in the region.
• Education and outreach continues to be a central component essential
to successful management of the Refuge. Partnerships with Southwest
Regional Schools, Dillingham School District, and the Lower
Kuskokwim School District as well as all of the affected communities
allow this to be successful. Some of the elements of this partnership
include the Bristol Bay Salmon Camp, Cape Peirce Marine Science and
USFWS
Alaska poppy.
Refuge biologist collaring moose.
USFWS
25
Yup’ik Culture Camp, and the Ecology and Outdoor Skills Camp held
each summer. Classroom visits by refuge staff are made periodically
during the school year to conduct environmental education programs,
generate interest for the science camps, provide migratory bird calendar
contest information, and other purposes.
• A program of inholding acquisition has been taking place on the Refuge
for a number of years. To implement this program the Refuge works
with the Southwest Alaska Salmon Habitat Partnership which includes
an array of Native interests, commercial operators, conservation
groups, land managers, and others working together to protect natural
resources of Southwest Alaska.
• The common occurrence of moose on many parts of the Refuge is a fairly
recent phenomenon. Refuge staff work in partnership with ADF&G and
the villages of Togiak, Twin Hills, Manokotak, and Dillingham through
the Unit 17A Moose Management Working Group to monitor the status
of the moose herd in that unit and develop management strategies.
Work continues with the villages of Goodnews Bay, Platinum, and
Quinhagak to develop management goals for expanding moose herds in
drainages most used by those villages.
Comprehensive Conservation Plan
Amendment and Revision
Periodic review and revision of this Plan will be needed. As knowledge
of the Refuge’s resources and users improves, changes in management
directions may be identified. Fish and wildlife populations, user groups,
adjacent land uses, and other management considerations change with
time, often in unforeseen ways. Challenges also may be encountered in
implementing the Plan.
Revisions are a necessary part of the adaptive management approach used
by the Refuge. This means that objectives and strategies to reach goals can
be adjusted. Most of the resulting changes will fine-tune the plan. Minor
changes will be addressed in the more-detailed refuge, step-down plans, and
annual work plans. If a major change is required it will become necessary to
develop a new plan.
To enable refuge users; adjacent landowners; local, state, and Federal
agencies; and other interested parties to express their views on how the
Refuge is being managed, the Refuge will periodically hold meetings or use
other techniques to solicit comments. By encouraging continuing public
input, the Refuge will be better able to serve the public, to determine
potential problems before they occur, and to take immediate action to
resolve existing problems.
Every three to five years, Refuge staff will review public comments, local
and state government recommendations, staff recommendations, research
studies, and other sources of information to determine if revisions to the
Plan are necessary. If major changes are proposed, public meetings may be
held and a new environmental assessment or environmental impact
statement may be necessary. Full review and updating of the Plan will
occur every 15 years.
Environmental education - fishing!
USFWS
Winter scene on Togiak Refuge
USFWS
26
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U.S. Department of the Interior
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
http://www.fws.gov
September 2009
Requests for additional information about the Togiak Refuge and its
Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan should be directed to:
Refuge Manager
Togiak National Wildlife Refuge
P.O. Box 270
Dillingham, AK 99576
Headquarters Phone: 907-842-1063
Headquarters Fax: 907-842-5402
E-mail: togiak@fws.gov
Internet: http://togiak.fws.gov
Requests for a CD-ROM or paper copy of the
Comprehensive Conservation Plan for the Togiak Refuge should be
directed to the Refuge at the address above or to:
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Division of Conservation Planning & Policy
1011 E. Tudor Road, MS-231
Anchorage, AK 99503
Division phone: 907-786-3357
Division Fax: 907-786-3965
E-mail: fw7_togiak_planning@fws.gov
Internet: http://alaska.fws.gov/nwr/planning/togpol.htm