Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Volume 1 Kenai National... 
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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 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 photos from Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Image LibraryRevised
Comprehensive Conservation Plan
and
Environmental Impact Statement
Volume 1
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
August 2009
Prepared by:
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Region 7
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
2139 Ski Hill Road
P.O. Box 2139
Soldotna, Alaska 99669-2139
Alaska Regional Office
Division of Conservation Planning & Policy
1011 East Tudor Rd., MS-231
Anchorage, AK 99503 Thank you for participating in our planning process!
Your comments will help us prepare a better plan for the future of Kenai Refuge.
United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
Regional Office, National Wildlife Refuge System-Alaska
Division of Conservation Planning & Policy
1011 East Tudor Road
Anchorage, Alaska 99503
(907) 786-3357
Dear Reader:
This Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan (Plan) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge will guide management of the Refuge for the next 15 years. This Plan revises the Refuge’s original comprehensive conservation plan completed in 1985. It outlines five management alternatives, including our preferred alternative, addresses management issues raised during public scoping, and presents our evaluation of the impacts associated with implementing each alternative.
This Plan has been published in two volumes. Volume 1 contains the background, issues, and analysis. Volume 2 contains the supporting appendices.
This Plan incorporates changes based on comments received on the Draft Plan. Those comments and our responses are presented in Volume 2, Appendix D. Most comments required only that we clarify or make minor corrections to the text. Others were more involved. For example, Objective 2.9 was re-written to remove the population objectives for Dall sheep and mountain goats in response to concerns expressed by the State of Alaska. Another change was to propose a change in regulations to allow the Refuge Manager to grant special use permits, for airplane access to normally closed lakes, to successful applicants in the State’s limited drawing hunt program.
Most people will be unaffected by changes in Refuge management. For example, there will be no changes to how dog mushing activities can be performed on the Refuge.
Public involvement in the planning process is essential for development of an effective plan. While there will be no formal public review of this final Plan and EIS, comments on the plan will be considered until September 28, 2009. Comments should be specific, addressing merits of the alternatives and adequacy of the analysis. We will consider these comments as we prepare the Record of Decision. The Record of Decision will complete the comprehensive conservation planning process for Kenai National Wildlife Refuge.
You may view the Plan or a Summary of the Plan online at: http://www.r7.fws.gov/nwr/planning/plans.htm or obtain a compact disk with both versions.
Comments and requests for copies of the Plan, the Summary, or a compact disk with both should be directed to:
Requests for further information about the Refuge should be directed to:
Peter Wikoff, Planning Team Leader
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
1011 E. Tudor Road, MS-231
Anchorage, AK 99503
Phone: (907) 786-3357
Email: fw7_kenai_planning@fws.gov
Refuge Manager
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
2139 Ski Hill Road
P.O. Box 2139
Soldotna, Alaska 99669-2139
Phone: (907) 262-7021
Email: kenai@fws.gov Table of Contents
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan v
Table of Contents
Title Page .............................................................................................................................................................. i Dear Reader Letter ........................................................................................................................................... iii
Table of Contents ................................................................................................................................................ v Acronyms and Abbreviations ........................................................................................................................... xix
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
1.2.4 Legal and Policy Guidance and State Coordination ................................................................. 1-5
1.2.4.1 Legal Guidance .................................................................................................................... 1-5
1.2.4.2 Policy Guidance .................................................................................................................... 1-5
1.2.4.3 Coordination with the State of Alaska ............................................................................... 1-6
1.3 Planning Area ................................................................................................................................. 1-7
1.3.1 Establishment of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge ................................................................... 1-8
1.4 Refuge Purposes, Vision, and Goals ............................................................................................ 1-11
1.4.1 Refuge Purposes ........................................................................................................................ 1-11
1.4.2 Our Vision for Kenai National Wildlife Refuge....................................................................... 1-11
1.4.3 Refuge Goals ............................................................................................................................... 1-12
1.5 Refuge Overview ........................................................................................................................... 1-13
1.5.1 Historical Perspective ................................................................................................................ 1-13
1.5.2 Refuge Environment ................................................................................................................. 1-15
1.5.2.1 Physical Environment ....................................................................................................... 1-15
1.5.2.2 Biological Environment .................................................................................................... 1-15
1.5.2.3 Human Uses ....................................................................................................................... 1-16
1.6 Special Values ............................................................................................................................... 1-17
1.6.1 Refuge Characteristics Valued by the Public.......................................................................... 1-17
1.6.2 Valued Ecosystems and Places ................................................................................................. 1-17
1.6.2.1 Chickaloon Watershed and Estuary ................................................................................ 1-17
1.6.2.2 Harding Icefield ................................................................................................................. 1-17
1.6.2.3 Kenai River and its Tributaries ....................................................................................... 1-17
1.6.2.4 Lowland Lakes System ..................................................................................................... 1-17
1.6.2.5 Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area ....................................................................................... 1-18
1.6.2.6 Tustumena Lake and its Watershed ................................................................................ 1-18
1.6.2.7 Tustumena-Skilak Benchlands ......................................................................................... 1-18
1.7 The Planning Process ................................................................................................................... 1-21
1.7.1 Preplanning ................................................................................................................................ 1-21
1.7.2 Initiate Public Involvement and Scoping ................................................................................. 1-22
1.7.3 Determine Significant Issues .................................................................................................... 1-26
1.7.4 Develop and Analyze Alternatives ........................................................................................... 1-26
1.7.5 Prepare Draft Plan and Environmental Impact Statement .................................................. 1-26
1.7.6 Prepare and Adopt a Final Plan and Environmental Impact Statement ............................. 1-27
1.7.7 Implement Plan, Monitor, and Evaluate ................................................................................. 1-27
1.7.8 Review and Revise Plan ............................................................................................................ 1-27
1.8 Issues ............................................................................................................................................. 1-27
1.9 Significant Planning Issues .......................................................................................................... 1-32
1.10 References .................................................................................................................................... 1-35
Table of Contents
vi Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan
2. Alternatives, Goals, and Objectives ...................................................................................................... 2-1
2.1 Alternatives ..................................................................................................................................... 2-1
2.1.1 Process Used to Develop Alternatives ....................................................................................... 2-1
2.1.2 Alternatives Considered But Eliminated from Detailed Study .............................................. 2-2
Issue: Crowding on the Upper Kenai River ....................................................................................... 2-2
2.1.3 Elements Common to All Alternatives ...................................................................................... 2-5
2.1.4 Management Direction Common To All Alternatives .............................................................. 2-6
2.1.4.1 Beetle Kill Trees/Fire Safety ............................................................................................. 2-6
2.1.4.2 Cultural Resources Management ...................................................................................... 2-6
2.1.4.3 Existing Oil and Gas Units ................................................................................................. 2-6
2.1.4.4 Integrated Research and Monitoring ................................................................................ 2-6
2.1.4.5 Kenai River Scenic Float Trip Guides ............................................................................... 2-7
2.1.4.6 Land Management Training Facility ................................................................................ 2-7
2.1.4.7 Law Enforcement ................................................................................................................ 2-7
2.1.4.8 Moose Range Meadows Non-Development Easement .................................................... 2-7
2.1.4.9 Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area ......................................................................................... 2-7
2.1.4.10 Subsurface Entitlements to Minerals ................................................................................ 2-7
2.1.4.11 Visitor Center ....................................................................................................................... 2-8
2.1.4.12 Wildlife/Habitat Restoration .............................................................................................. 2-8
2.1.5 Alternative A—Current Management ....................................................................................... 2-8
2.1.5.1 General Management Direction ......................................................................................... 2-8
2.1.5.2 Management Categories ................................................................................................... 2-11
2.1.5.3 Management Direction Identified By Issue.................................................................... 2-12
2.1.5.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements............................................................................ 2-25
2.1.6 Alternative B ............................................................................................................................... 2-27
2.1.6.1 General Management Direction ....................................................................................... 2-27
2.1.6.2 Management Categories ................................................................................................... 2-27
2.1.6.3 Management Direction Identified By Issue.................................................................... 2-27
2.1.6.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements............................................................................ 2-40
2.1.7 Alternative C ............................................................................................................................... 2-44
2.1.7.1 General Management Direction ....................................................................................... 2-44
2.1.7.2 Management Categories ................................................................................................... 2-44
2.1.7.3 Management Direction Identified By Issue.................................................................... 2-44
2.1.7.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements............................................................................ 2-53
2.1.8 Alternative D .............................................................................................................................. 2-61
2.1.8.1 General Management Direction ....................................................................................... 2-61
2.1.8.2 Management Categories ................................................................................................... 2-61
2.1.8.3 Management Direction Identified By Issue.................................................................... 2-61
2.1.8.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements............................................................................ 2-77
2.1.9 Alternative E — The Preferred Alternative ........................................................................... 2-78
2.1.9.1 General Management Direction ....................................................................................... 2-78
2.1.9.2 Management Categories ................................................................................................... 2-78
2.1.9.3 Management Direction Identified By Issue.................................................................... 2-79
2.1.9.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements............................................................................ 2-95
2.1.10 Comparison of the Alternatives ................................................................................................ 2-97
2.2 Refuge Purposes, Goals, and Objectives ................................................................................... 2-111
2.2.1 Refuge Purpose (i) .................................................................................................................... 2-111
2.2.2 Refuge Purpose (ii)................................................................................................................... 2-130
2.2.3 Refuge Purpose (iii) ................................................................................................................. 2-132
2.2.4 Refuge Purpose (iv) .................................................................................................................. 2-134
2.2.5 Refuge Purpose (v) ................................................................................................................... 2-141
2.2.6 The Wilderness Act Purpose for the Kenai Wilderness Area ............................................. 2-148
2.3 Common Management Direction, Policies, and Guidelines .................................................... 2-150
Table of Contents
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan vii
2.4 Comparison of Previous and New Management Policies and Guidelines ............................. 2-151
2.5 References .................................................................................................................................. 2-162
3. Affected Environment ............................................................................................................................ 3-1
3.1 Geographic Setting ......................................................................................................................... 3-1
3.1.1 Refuge History ............................................................................................................................. 3-1
3.1.2 Agreements, Decisions, and Legislation .................................................................................... 3-2
3.1.3 Existing Land Status ................................................................................................................... 3-3
3.1.4 Land Acquisition and Habitat Protection History ................................................................... 3-4
3.2 Physical Environment .................................................................................................................... 3-8
3.2.1 Climate ......................................................................................................................................... 3-9
3.2.2 Landforms .................................................................................................................................... 3-9
3.2.3 Geology ......................................................................................................................................... 3-9
3.2.4 Oil and Gas Occurrences and Potential .................................................................................... 3-10
3.2.4.1 Swanson River and Soldotna Creek Unit ........................................................................ 3-13
3.2.4.2 Beaver Creek Unit............................................................................................................. 3-14
3.2.4.3 Birch Hill Unit ................................................................................................................... 3-15
3.2.4.4 Wolf Lake Facilities .......................................................................................................... 3-15
3.2.4.5 East Swanson River Satellite Project ............................................................................. 3-16
3.2.4.6 Cook Inlet Region, Inc., Exploratory Drilling ................................................................ 3-17
3.2.4.7 Gas Storage ........................................................................................................................ 3-18
3.2.4.8 Compatibility Determination............................................................................................ 3-18
3.2.5 Environmental Contaminants ................................................................................................... 3-19
3.2.5.1 Contamination from Activities Associated with the Oil and Gas Industry .............................................................................................................................. 3-19
3.2.5.2 Atmospheric Deposition .................................................................................................... 3-20
3.2.5.3 Biologically Transported Contaminants ......................................................................... 3-20
3.2.5.4 Aromatic Hydrocarbons from Boat Traffic .................................................................... 3-21
3.2.5.5 Other Point and Nonpoint Contaminant Sources Outside the Refuge ............................. 3-21
3.2.6 Water Resources ........................................................................................................................ 3-22
3.2.7 Air Resources ............................................................................................................................. 3-23
3.2.8 Concerns Regarding the Physical Environment .................................................................... 3-24
3.2.8.1 Climate Change ................................................................................................................. 3-24
3.2.8.2 Noise Pollution ................................................................................................................... 3-25
3.2.8.3 Oil and Gas Units Industrial Footprint ........................................................................... 3-27
3.3 Biological Environment ................................................................................................................ 3-29
3.3.1 Ecosystems ................................................................................................................................ 3-29
3.3.2 Landscape Types ........................................................................................................................ 3-29
3.3.2.1 White Spruce ...................................................................................................................... 3-30
3.3.2.2 Black Spruce ...................................................................................................................... 3-30
3.3.2.3 Hemlock .............................................................................................................................. 3-33
3.3.2.4 Hardwood ........................................................................................................................... 3-33
3.3.2.5 Mixed Hardwood-Softwood .............................................................................................. 3-34
3.3.2.6 Subalpine Shrub ................................................................................................................. 3-34
3.3.2.7 Lowland Shrub ................................................................................................................... 3-34
3.3.2.8 Alpine Shrub–Lichen Tundra ........................................................................................... 3-35
3.3.2.9 Wetlands (Fens and Peatlands) ....................................................................................... 3-35
3.3.2.10 Herbaceous and Grass ...................................................................................................... 3-35
3.3.3 Special Terrestrial Habitats ...................................................................................................... 3-35
3.3.3.1 Riparian Habitats .............................................................................................................. 3-35
3.3.3.2 Estuary ............................................................................................................................... 3-36
3.3.3.3 Cliffs ................................................................................................................................... 3-36
3.3.3.4 Islands in Lakes ................................................................................................................. 3-36
3.3.3.5 Gravel and Rock (Outwash Plains, River Floodplains, Alpine Rock) ........................... 3-36
Table of Contents
viii Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan
3.3.3.6 Snow, Ice, and Glaciers ..................................................................................................... 3-37
3.3.3.7 Nunataks and Other Unglaciated Areas ......................................................................... 3-37
3.3.4 Lakes and Streams ..................................................................................................................... 3-38
3.3.4.1 Anadromous Fish Streams ............................................................................................... 3-38
3.3.4.2 Resident Fish Streams ...................................................................................................... 3-38
3.3.4.3 Anadromous Lakes ............................................................................................................ 3-38
3.3.4.4 Resident Lakes .................................................................................................................. 3-39
3.3.5 Natural Disturbance Processes ................................................................................................ 3-39
3.3.5.1 Spruce Bark Beetles and Other Insects .......................................................................... 3-39
3.3.5.2 Fires ................................................................................................................................... 3-47
3.3.5.3 Avalanches .......................................................................................................................... 3-48
3.3.5.4 Windstorms ........................................................................................................................ 3-49
3.3.5.5 Flooding .............................................................................................................................. 3-49
3.3.5.6 Earthquakes and Volcanoes ............................................................................................. 3-49
3.3.5.7 Receding Glaciers and Icefields ....................................................................................... 3-50
3.3.6 Concerns Regarding Habitat .................................................................................................... 3-50
3.3.6.1 Habitat Changes Since 1985 ............................................................................................. 3-50
3.3.6.2 Rising Tree Line (Krummholz) ........................................................................................ 3-51
3.3.6.3 Drying Wetlands, Shrinking Lake Surface Area ........................................................... 3-52
3.3.6.4 Lowland Hemlock .............................................................................................................. 3-52
3.3.6.5 Old-Growth Forest ............................................................................................................ 3-53
3.3.6.6 Exotic, Invasive, and Injurious Flora .............................................................................. 3-53
3.3.6.7 Damage and Disturbance Due to Legal and Illegal Use of Snowmachines and Off-Road Motorized Vehicles .......................................................... 3-54
3.3.7 Wildlife ....................................................................................................................................... 3-56
3.3.7.1 Threatened and Endangered Species .............................................................................. 3-56
3.3.7.2 Species of Special Concern ............................................................................................... 3-57
3.3.7.3 Wildlife ............................................................................................................................... 3-58
3.3.8 Concerns Regarding Wildlife Populations ............................................................................... 3-90
3.3.8.1 Declining Moose Populations............................................................................................ 3-90
3.3.8.2 Status of Brown Bear Populations ................................................................................... 3-91
3.3.8.3 Human Disturbance of Trumpeter Swans ...................................................................... 3-92
3.3.8.4 Abnormal Bills on Black-Capped Chickadees and Other Avifauna .............................. 3-97
3.3.8.5 High Rates of Abnormalities in Wood Frogs .................................................................. 3-98
3.3.8.6 Exotic, Invasive, and Injurious Fauna ............................................................................ 3-98
3.3.8.7 Wildlife Diseases .............................................................................................................. 3-101
3.3.8.8 Diseases that May Emerge in Wildlife Populations ..................................................... 3-101
3.3.8.9 Global Climate Change.................................................................................................... 3-104
3.3.8.10 Cumulative Effects of Anthropogenic Development and Activities ........................... 3-105
3.3.8.11 Effects of Culverts on Fisheries .................................................................................... 3-106
3.3.8.12 Loss of Biodiversity ......................................................................................................... 3-107
3.3.9 Special Designated Areas ........................................................................................................ 3-107
3.3.9.1 Legislative Designations ................................................................................................. 3-108
3.3.9.2 Administrative Designations .......................................................................................... 3-111
3.4 Human Environment .................................................................................................................. 3-112
3.4.1 Local History and Cultural Resources ................................................................................... 3-112
3.4.2 Population ................................................................................................................................ 3-115
3.4.3 Economy ................................................................................................................................... 3-117
3.4.3.1 Employment and Income ................................................................................................ 3-117
3.4.3.2 Economic Significance of Kenai Refuge within the Kenai Peninsula Borough Economy ........................................................................................................... 3-119
3.4.3.3 Economic Significance of Recreational Visits ............................................................... 3-120
3.4.3.4 Economic Significance of Cook Inlet Commercial Fishing ......................................... 3-120
Table of Contents
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan ix
3.4.4 Access ....................................................................................................................................... 3-121
3.4.4.1 Roads and Seismic Lines ................................................................................................ 3-121
3.4.4.2 Pipelines and Utility Right-of-Ways .............................................................................. 3-125
3.4.4.3 Airplane Landing Areas .................................................................................................. 3-126
3.4.4.4 Snowmachines .................................................................................................................. 3-128
3.4.4.5 Rivers and Trails ............................................................................................................. 3-134
3.4.5 Facilities ................................................................................................................................... 3-136
3.4.5.1 Campgrounds ................................................................................................................... 3-136
3.4.5.2 Cabins ............................................................................................................................... 3-138
3.4.5.3 Interpretation and Environmental Education Facilities ............................................. 3-139
3.4.5.4 Maintenance Facilities .................................................................................................... 3-139
3.4.5.5 Administrative Facilities ................................................................................................. 3-140
3.4.6 Public Uses ............................................................................................................................... 3-140
3.4.6.1 Fishing .............................................................................................................................. 3-141
3.4.6.2 Hunting and Trapping .................................................................................................... 3-144
3.4.6.3 Wildlife Viewing and Photography ................................................................................ 3-148
3.4.6.4 Interpretation and Education ........................................................................................ 3-149
3.4.6.5 Commercial Services ....................................................................................................... 3-150
3.4.6.6 Subsistence ....................................................................................................................... 3-151
3.4.7 Concerns Regarding the Human Environment .................................................................... 3-153
3.4.7.1 Wildland-Urban Interface Management(WUI) ........................................................... 3-153
3.5 Wilderness Values ....................................................................................................................... 3-155
3.5.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 3-155
3.5.2 The Kenai Wilderness .............................................................................................................. 3-157
3.5.2.1 Size ................................................................................................................................... 3-158
3.5.2.2 Naturalness and Wildness .............................................................................................. 3-158
3.5.2.3 Opportunities for Primitive Recreation ........................................................................ 3-159
3.5.3 Areas Recommended for Wilderness Designation in the 1988 Supplemental Review ...................................................................................................................................... 3-159
3.5.4 Refuge Units Outside the Designated Kenai Wilderness .................................................... 3-160
3.5.4.1 Two Indians Unit ............................................................................................................. 3-163
3.5.4.2 Pipeline Lowlands Unit ................................................................................................... 3-164
3.5.4.3 Chickaloon Flats Unit ..................................................................................................... 3-164
3.5.4.4 Lark Lake Unit ................................................................................................................ 3-165
3.5.4.5 Oilfields Unit .................................................................................................................... 3-166
3.5.4.6 Research Center Unit ..................................................................................................... 3-166
3.5.4.7 Moose River/Mystery Creek Unit ................................................................................. 3-167
3.5.4.8 Skilak Loop/Lake Unit .................................................................................................... 3-168
3.5.4.9 Headquarters Unit .......................................................................................................... 3-169
3.5.4.10 Tustumena Outlet Unit ................................................................................................... 3-170
3.5.5 Concerns Regarding Wilderness ............................................................................................ 3-171
3.5.5.1 Fire Management Impacts on Naturalness .................................................................. 3-171
3.5.5.2 Impacts of Motorized Use on Opportunities for Solitude............................................ 3-172
3.6 River Values ............................................................................................................................... 3-173
3.6.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 3-173
3.6.2 Kenai River ............................................................................................................................... 3-174
3.6.2.1 Cultural, Historic, and Prehistoric Values .................................................................... 3-174
3.6.2.2 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-177
3.6.2.3 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-177
3.6.2.4 Recreation Values ............................................................................................................ 3-177
3.6.3 Swanson River .......................................................................................................................... 3-178
3.6.3.1 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-178
3.6.3.2 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-178
Table of Contents
x Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan
3.6.3.3 Recreation Values ............................................................................................................ 3-178
3.6.4 Moose River .............................................................................................................................. 3-178
3.6.4.1 Cultural, Historic, and Prehistoric Values .................................................................... 3-179
3.6.4.2 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-179
3.6.4.3 Wildness ............................................................................................................................ 3-179
3.6.4.4 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-179
3.6.4.5 Recreation Values ............................................................................................................ 3-179
3.6.5 Russian River........................................................................................................................... 3-179
3.6.5.1 Cultural, Historic, and Prehistoric Values .................................................................... 3-180
3.6.5.2 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-180
3.6.5.3 Wildness ............................................................................................................................ 3-180
3.6.5.4 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-180
3.6.5.5 Recreation Values ............................................................................................................ 3-180
3.6.6 Chickaloon River / Mystery Creek ......................................................................................... 3-181
3.6.6.1 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-181
3.6.6.2 Wildness ............................................................................................................................ 3-181
3.6.6.3 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-181
3.6.7 Fox River.................................................................................................................................. 3-181
3.6.7.1 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-182
3.6.7.2 Wildness ............................................................................................................................ 3-182
3.6.7.3 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-182
3.6.8 Killey River ............................................................................................................................... 3-182
3.6.8.1 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-182
3.6.8.2 Wildness ............................................................................................................................ 3-182
3.6.8.3 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-182
3.7 Refuge Infrastructure and Administration .............................................................................. 3-183
3.7.1 Administrative Facilities ......................................................................................................... 3-183
3.7.1.1 Headquarters Area .......................................................................................................... 3-183
3.7.1.2 Remote Facilities ............................................................................................................. 3-184
3.7.1.3 Roads ................................................................................................................................ 3-185
3.7.2 Refuge Staffing ......................................................................................................................... 3-185
3.8 References .................................................................................................................................. 3-186
4. Environmental Consequences ............................................................................................................... 4-1
4.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.2 Definition of Terms ......................................................................................................................... 4-1
4.2.1 Impact Type ................................................................................................................................. 4-1
4.2.2 Duration of Impact ....................................................................................................................... 4-2
4.2.3 Intensity of Impact ....................................................................................................................... 4-2
4.2.4 Context or Scale of Impact .......................................................................................................... 4-3
4.3 Key Indicators and Assumptions................................................................................................... 4-3
4.4 Analyses .......................................................................................................................................... 4-3
4.4.1 Use of Fire as a Management Tool............................................................................................. 4-3
4.4.1.1 Physical Environment ......................................................................................................... 4-4
4.4.1.2 Biological Environment ..................................................................................................... 4-11
4.4.1.3 Human Environment ......................................................................................................... 4-14
4.4.2 Swanson River Oil and Gas Unit............................................................................................... 4-21
4.4.2.1 Physical Environment ....................................................................................................... 4-22
4.4.2.2 Biological Environment ..................................................................................................... 4-25
4.4.2.3 Human Environment ......................................................................................................... 4-30
4.4.2.4 River Values ....................................................................................................................... 4-40
4.4.2.5 Wilderness Values ............................................................................................................. 4-42
4.4.3 Beaver Creek Oil and Gas Unit ................................................................................................ 4-44
4.4.3.1 Physical Environment ....................................................................................................... 4-45
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Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xi
4.4.3.2 Biological Environment .................................................................................................... 4-46
4.4.3.3 Human Environment......................................................................................................... 4-49
4.4.3.4 Wilderness Values ............................................................................................................. 4-52
4.4.4 Mystery Creek Access Road and Pipeline Corridor .............................................................. 4-53
4.4.4.1 Physical Environment ....................................................................................................... 4-54
4.4.4.2 Biological Environment .................................................................................................... 4-62
4.4.4.3 Human Environment......................................................................................................... 4-71
4.4.5 Ski Hill Road ............................................................................................................................... 4-87
4.4.5.1 Physical Environment ....................................................................................................... 4-88
4.4.5.2 Biological Environment .................................................................................................... 4-94
4.4.5.3 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-100
4.4.6 Sterling Highway Pullout ........................................................................................................ 4-103
4.4.6.1 Physical Environment ..................................................................................................... 4-103
4.4.6.2 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-104
4.4.7 Swanson River and Swan Lake Canoe Systems ................................................................... 4-106
4.4.7.1 Physical Environment ..................................................................................................... 4-106
4.4.7.2 Biological Environment .................................................................................................. 4-110
4.4.7.3 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-114
4.4.8 Upper Kenai River (Russian River to Skilak Lake) ............................................................. 4-119
4.4.8.1 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-119
4.4.9 Middle Kenai River (Skilak Lake Downstream to Refuge Boundary) ............................... 4-128
4.4.9.1 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-129
4.4.10 Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness ........................................................... 4-136
4.4.10.1 Biological Environment .................................................................................................. 4-136
4.4.10.2 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-143
4.4.11 Airplane Access to Chickaloon Flats ...................................................................................... 4-152
4.4.11.1 Physical Environment ..................................................................................................... 4-152
4.4.11.2 Biological Environment .................................................................................................. 4-154
4.4.11.3 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-159
4.4.12 Snowmachine Access ............................................................................................................... 4-163
4.4.12.1 Biological Environment .................................................................................................. 4-164
4.4.12.2 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-168
4.4.13 Cumulative Impacts ................................................................................................................. 4-173
4.4.13.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 4-173
4.4.13.2 Physical Environment ..................................................................................................... 4-173
4.4.13.3 Biological Environment .................................................................................................. 4-179
4.4.13.4 Socioeconomic Environment .......................................................................................... 4-184
4.5 Mitigation .................................................................................................................................... 4-190
4.6 Relationship Between Short-Term Use of the Environment and Long-Term
Productivity ................................................................................................................................ 4-190
4.7 Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitment of Resources ..................................................... 4-191
4.8 Environmental Justice ................................................................................................................ 4-191
4.9 Section 810 Evaluation ............................................................................................................... 4-192
4.10 Summary Comparison of Environmental Effects ................................................................... 4-193
4.11 References .................................................................................................................................. 4-193
5. Evaluation of the Alternatives............................................................................................................... 5-1
5.1 Evaluation Criteria ......................................................................................................................... 5-1
5.2 Response to Refuge Purposes ....................................................................................................... 5-1
5.3 Response to National Wildlife Refuge System Mission .............................................................. 5-2
5.4 Response to Refuge Goals .............................................................................................................. 5-2
5.5 Response to Issues .......................................................................................................................... 5-3
5.5.1 How will the Refuge address large-scale habitat changes and the use of fire ....................... 5-3
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xii Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan
5.5.2 How will the Refuge manage existing facilities for public use while ensuring resource protection? ..................................................................................................................... 5-3
5.5.2.1 Swanson River and Beaver Creek Oil and Gas Units ...................................................... 5-3
5.5.2.2 Mystery Creek Access Road and Pipeline Corridor ........................................................ 5-4
5.5.2.3 Trail Planning and Development ....................................................................................... 5-4
5.5.2.4 Ski Hill Road ........................................................................................................................ 5-4
5.5.2.5 Sterling Highway Pullout ................................................................................................... 5-5
5.5.3 How will the Refuge enhance wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities? ......................... 5-5
5.5.3.1 Personal Collection of Natural Resources ........................................................................ 5-5
5.5.3.2 Christmas Tree Harvesting ................................................................................................ 5-5
5.5.4 How will the Refuge manage increasing public use to ensure resource and
visitor-experience protection? ..................................................................................................... 5-5
5.5.4.1 Swanson River and Swan Lake Canoe Systems ............................................................... 5-5
5.5.4.2 Upper Kenai River (Russian River to Skilak Lake) ........................................................ 5-5
5.5.4.3 Middle Kenai River (Skilak Lake Downstream to the Refuge
Boundary) ............................................................................................................................. 5-6
5.5.5 How will the Refuge balance motorized access with resource and visitor-experiences protection? ............................................................................................................... 5-7
5.5.5.1 Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness ....................................................... 5-7
5.5.5.2 Airplane Access to Chickaloon Flats ................................................................................. 5-7
5.5.5.3 Snowmachine Access ........................................................................................................... 5-7
5.6 Response to Biological Integrity and Ecosystem Management ................................................ 5-8
5.7 Response to Area-Related ADF&G Management Plans .......................................................... 5-10
6. Implementation and Monitoring ........................................................................................................... 6-1
6.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 6-1
6.2 Regulations ..................................................................................................................................... 6-1
6.3 Current Step-Down Plans .............................................................................................................. 6-1
6.3.1 Cabin Management Plan ............................................................................................................. 6-2
6.3.2 Caribou Management Plan .......................................................................................................... 6-2
6.3.3 Fire Management Plan ................................................................................................................ 6-2
6.3.4 Fishery Management Plan .......................................................................................................... 6-2
6.3.5 Furbearer Management Plan ..................................................................................................... 6-2
6.3.6 Kenai Peninsula Brown Bear Conservation Strategy .............................................................. 6-2
6.3.7 Kenai River Comprehensive Management Plan ....................................................................... 6-3
6.3.8 Kenai River Easement Management Strategy ......................................................................... 6-3
6.3.9 Moose Management Plan ............................................................................................................ 6-3
6.3.10 Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area Management Plan ................................................................. 6-3
6.3.11 Swanson River and Swan Lake Road Visitor Facilities Rehabilitation .................................. 6-4
6.3.12 Upper Kenai River Commercial Visitor Services Management Strategy ............................. 6-4
6.3.13 Upper Kenai River Cooperative Plan ........................................................................................ 6-4
6.3.14 Wolf Management Operational Plan .......................................................................................... 6-4
6.3.15 Land Protection Plan ................................................................................................................... 6-4
6.4 Future Step-Down Plans ................................................................................................................ 6-5
6.4.1 Terrestrial and Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan.................................................. 6-5
6.4.2 Sqilantnu Archeological District Management Plan ................................................................ 6-5
6.4.3 Stepanka Archeological District Management Plan ................................................................ 6-5
6.4.4 Kenai Law Enforcement Operations Plan ................................................................................. 6-5
6.4.5 Kenai Trails Needs Assessment and Management Plan ......................................................... 6-5
6.4.6 Kenai Refuge Sign Plan ............................................................................................................... 6-5
6.4.7 Kenai Wilderness Stewardship Plan .......................................................................................... 6-6
6.4.8 Wildland Fire Monitoring Plan ................................................................................................... 6-6
6.4.9 Wildlife Inventory and Monitoring Plan .................................................................................... 6-6
6.4.10 Research Natural Areas Management Plan .............................................................................. 6-6
Table of Contents
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xiii
6.5 Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................................. 6-6
6.5.1 Existing Partnerships .................................................................................................................. 6-7
6.5.1.1 Biological Partnerships ....................................................................................................... 6-7
6.5.1.2 Sterling Highway Partnership ........................................................................................... 6-7
6.5.1.3 Christmas Bird Count Partnership ................................................................................... 6-8
6.5.1.4 Long Term Ecological Monitoring Partnership ............................................................... 6-8
6.5.1.5 Alaska Landscape Cumulative Effects Partnership ........................................................ 6-8
6.5.1.6 Invasive Species Partnership ............................................................................................. 6-8
6.5.1.7 University Partnerships ..................................................................................................... 6-8
6.5.1.8 Visitor Contact Partnerships .............................................................................................. 6-9
6.5.1.9 Environmental Education and Outreach Partnerships ................................................... 6-9
6.6 Monitoring and Evaluation ............................................................................................................ 6-9
6.7 Plan Amendment and Revision ...................................................................................................... 6-9
6.8 Acronyms ...................................................................................................................................... 6-10
6.9 Reference .......................................................................................................................................... 46
7. Consultation and Coordination with Others ........................................................................................ 7-1
7.1 Section 7 Compliance ...................................................................................................................... 7-1
7.2 Memorandums of Understanding and Agreement ...................................................................... 7-1
7.3 Consistency with the Alaska Coastal Management Program/Kenai Peninsula Borough Coastal Management Plan ............................................................................................. 7-3
Appendices ~ Volume 2
A Legal Guidance and Planning Coordination
B Coordination with the State of Alaska
C Management Direction, Policies, and Guidelines
D Comments Received and Our Response to Comments
E Easements and Right-of-Ways F Species List
G Assessing River Values—Methodology and Results
H Preparers
I Mailing List
J Glossary
Table of Contents
xiv Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan
Tables ~ Volume 1
Table 1-1. Location, Attendance, and Dates of Public Meetings .......................................................... 1-22
Table 1-2. Wildlife and Habitat-Related Concerns Identified During Scoping .................................. 1-23
Table 1-3. Recreation-Related Concerns Identified During Scoping .................................................. 1-24
Table 1-4. Crowding-Related Concerns Identified During Scoping .................................................... 1-24
Table 1-5. Facilities-Related Concerns Identified During Scoping ..................................................... 1-25
Table 1-6. Access-Related Concerns Identified During Scoping ......................................................... 1-25
Table 1-7. Addressing Issues Raised During Scoping ........................................................................... 1-29
Table 2-1. Differences Between Traditional and Minimal Management Under
Alternative A ............................................................................................................................ 2-12
Table 2-2. Alternative A Budget Needs .................................................................................................. 2-25
Table 2-3. Alternative A Staffing Needs Beyond Current Levels ....................................................... 2-26
Table 2-4. Alternative B Budget Needs Beyond Current Levels ......................................................... 2-43
Table 2-5. Alternative B Staffing Needs Beyond Current Levels ....................................................... 2-43
Table 2-6. Alternative C Budget Needs Beyond Current Levels ......................................................... 2-54
Table 2-7. Alternative C Staffing Needs Beyond Current Levels ....................................................... 2-54
Table 2-8. Alternative D Budget Needs Beyond Current Levels ........................................................ 2-77
Table 2-9. Alternative D Staffing Needs beyond Current Levels ........................................................ 2-78
Table 2-10. Alternative E Budget Needs Beyond Current Levels ........................................................ 2-95
Table 2-11. Alternative E Staffing Needs beyond Current Levels ........................................................ 2-96
Table 2-12. Comparison of the Alternatives Identified By Issue and Management Action ....................................................................................................................................... 2-97
Table 2-13. Comparison of Current and New Management Direction (Alternative A compared with Alternatives B – E) ......................................................................................2-152
Table 3-1. The 18 Landscape Types on the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge ...................................... 3-29
Table 3-2. Population spike in the Kenai area following the first major oil strike
(1957) .......................................................................................................................................3-116
Table 3-3. Population changes in selected communities, Kenai Peninsula Borough .........................3-116
Table 3-4. Economic significance of Kenai Refuge-dependent activities (1997 and 2004) ........................................................................................................................................3-120
Table 3-5. Roads within Kenai National Wildlife Refuge .....................................................................3-122
Table 3-6. Dates and season of snowmachine use (1976 - 2006) ...........................................................3-130
Table 3-7. River Access within the Kenai Refuge .................................................................................3-135
Table 3-8. Trails within Kenai National Wildlife Refuge .....................................................................3-137
Table 3-9. Campgrounds ..........................................................................................................................3-138
Table 3-10. Public use cabins .....................................................................................................................3-138
Table 3-11. Maintenance facilities .............................................................................................................3-140
Table 3-12. Facilities located at the headquarters area .........................................................................3-183
Table 3-13. Remote facilities .....................................................................................................................3-184
Table 4-1. Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness Listed By Alternative ...............................................................................................................................4-149
Table 4-2. Summary Comparison of the Effects of Implementing the Alternatives .........................4-194
Table 5-1. Evaluation of the Alternatives Based on Significant Planning Issues ................................. 5-9
Table 6-1. Biological Inventorying and Monitoring Plan ...................................................................... 6-12
Table 6-2. Public Use Inventorying and Monitoring Plan .................................................................... 6-34
Table of Contents
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xv
Tables ~ Volume 2
Table C-1. Activities, Public Uses, Commercial Uses, and Facilities by Management Category .................................................................................................................................. C-46
Table E-1. State Claimed RS 2477 Routes within the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge .......................E-5 Table E-2. Active Right-of-Way Permits ...................................................................................................E-6 Table G-1. Attributes and Measurements Used To Conduct Outstandingly Remarkable Value Assessment ............................................................................................... G-7 Table G-2. Kenai River Evaluation ............................................................................................................ G-8 Table G-3. Moose River Evaluation ........................................................................................................... G-9 Table G-4. Russian River Evaluation ....................................................................................................... G-10
Table G-5. Killey River Evaluation .......................................................................................................... G-11
Table G-6. Swanson River Value .............................................................................................................. G-12
Table G-7. Fox River Evaluation .............................................................................................................. G-13
Table G-8. Chickaloon River Evaluation ................................................................................................. G-14
Table G-9. Comparison of River Values Evaluation ............................................................................... G-15
Figures ~ Volume 1
Figure 1-1. National Wildlife Refuges in Alaska ........................................................................................ 1-3
Figure 1-2. State of Alaska Game Management Unit 15 ............................................................................ 1-7
Figure 1-3. Location of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge ............................................................................ 1-9
Figure 1-4. Special Values of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge ................................................................ 1-19
Figure 1-5. The Planning Process .............................................................................................................. 1-21
Figure 2-1. Alternative A - Current Management Categories .................................................................. 2-9
Figure 2-2. Alternative A - Current Fire Management ........................................................................... 2-13
Figure 2-3. Alternative A - Current Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness North of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................... 2-19
Figure 2-4. Alternative A - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness South of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-21
Figure 2-5. Alternative A - Current Chickaloon Flats Airplane Access ................................................. 2-23
Figure 2-6. Alternative B - Management Categories ............................................................................... 2-29
Figure 2-7. Alternative B - Fire Management .......................................................................................... 2-31
Figure 2-8. Alternative B - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness North of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-35
Figure 2-9. Alternative B - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness South of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-37
Figure 2-10. Alternative B - Chickaloon Flats Airplane Access ................................................................ 2-41
Figure 2-11. Alternative C - Management Categories ............................................................................... 2-45
Figure 2-12. Alternative C - Fire Management .......................................................................................... 2-47
Figure 2-13. Alternative C - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness North of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-55
Figure 2-14. Alternative C - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness South of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-57
Figure 2-15. Alternative C - Chickaloon Flats Airplane Access ................................................................ 2-59
Figure 2-16. Alternative D - Management Categories ............................................................................... 2-63
Figure 2-17. Alternative D - Fire Management .......................................................................................... 2-65
Figure 2-18. Alternative D - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness North of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-71
Figure 2-19. Alternative D - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness South of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-73
Figure 2-20. Alternative D - Chickaloon Flats Airplane Access ............................................................... 2-75
Figure 2-21. Alternative E - Preferred Management Categories ............................................................. 2-81
Table of Contents
xvi Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan
Figure 2-22. Alternative E - Preferred Fire Management ....................................................................... 2-83
Figure 2-23. Alternative E - Preferred Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness North of the Sterling Highway .......................................................................... 2-89
Figure 2-24. Alternative E - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness South of the Sterling Highway .......................................................................................................... 2-91
Figure 2-25. Alternative E - Preferred Chickaloon Flats Airplane Access ............................................ 2-93
Figure 3-1. Existing Land Status ................................................................................................................ 3-5
Figure 3-2. Location of Oil and Gas Units and Related Features .......................................................... 3-11
Figure 3-3. Attenuation of noise (dB) generated by motor vehicle traffic on Sterling Highway in different cover types ........................................................................................... 3-26
Figure 3-4. Major Landcover ..................................................................................................................... 3-31
Figure 3-5. Aquatic Habitat Classes.......................................................................................................... 3-41
Figure 3-6. Spruce Bark Beetle Infestation ............................................................................................. 3-43
Figure 3-7. Fire History (1709-2007) ......................................................................................................... 3-45
Figure 3-8. Historical return intervals between wildfires and spruce bark beetle
outbreaks on the Kenai Peninsula ......................................................................................... 3-47
Figure 3-9. Aerial waterfowl counts and trend on three transects on the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge since 1964 (USFWS Division of Migratory Bird Management data) ......................................................................................................... 3-59
Figure 3-10. The number of swan nests inside (blue) and outside (red) the boundaries of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge since 1957 (Kenai National Wildlife Refuge unpublished data) ....................................................................................................... 3-59
Figure 3-11. Active and successful bald eagle nests on the Kenai Refuge since 1979............................ 3-62
Figure 3-12. Avian species richness by vegetation type on the Kenai Refuge........................................ 3-63
Figure 3-13. Black bear harvest on the Kenai Peninsula since 1973 (ADF&G preliminary data) ..................................................................................................................... 3-65
Figure 3-14. Locations of Brown Bears Have Been Killed in Defense of Life or
Property (1990-1999) ............................................................................................................... 3-67
Figure 3-15. Mortality of brown bears due to hunting and defense-of-life-or-property on the Kenai Peninsula since 1973 (ADF&G data) .............................................................. 3-69
Figure 3-16. Minimum wolf population estimate and reported harvest on the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge since 1972 ...................................................................................... 3-70
Figure 3-17. Wolverine Harvest on the Kenai Peninsula by Drainage (1984-2001) ............................... 3-73
Figure 3-18. Snowshoe hare pellet counts on five monitoring grids since 1983 ...................................... 3-79
Figure 3-19. Trumpeter Swan Nesting Locations (1957-2007) ................................................................. 3-95
Figure 3-20. Special Designated Areas ......................................................................................................3-109
Figure 3-21. Kenai Peninsula Borough Salary Percentages by Employment Type, 2003 ...................3-118
Figure 3-22. Kenai Peninsula Borough Average Monthly Incomes, by Industry (2003) ......................3-119
Figure 3-23. Points of Access ......................................................................................................................3-123
Figure 3-24. Snowmachine Access ..............................................................................................................3-131
Figure 3-25. Mean number of hourly snowmachine detections at five locations on the southern Kenai Peninsula (February 11, 2005–March 7, 2005) .........................................3-133
Figure 3-26. Boat angling counts on the upper Kenai River (summer season) .....................................3-143
Figure 3-27. Moose Harvest on Game Management Units within Kenai Refuge (1984–
2005) ........................................................................................................................................3-145
Figure 3-28. Black Bear Harvest on Game Management Units within Kenai Refuge
(1985–2004) ..............................................................................................................................3-145
Figure 3-29. Brown Bear Harvest on Game Management Units within Kenai Refuge
(1985–2005) ..............................................................................................................................3-146
Figure 3-30. Dall Sheep Harvest on Game Management Units within Kenai Refuge
(1985–2005) ..............................................................................................................................3-146
Figure 3-31. Wolf Harvest on Game Management Units within Kenai Refuge (1985–
2005) ........................................................................................................................................3-147
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Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xvii
Figure 3-32. Average trapping harvest on Kenai Refuge ........................................................................ 3-148
Figure 3-33. Wilderness Value Inventory Units ....................................................................................... 3-161
Figure 3-34. Rivers Containing Outstandingly Remarkable Values ...................................................... 3-175
Figures ~ Volume 2
Figure E-1. Easements and Indentifed RS-2477s ......................................................................................E-3
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| Rating | |
| Title | Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Volume 1 Kenai National Wildlife Refuge - Table of Contents |
| Description | kenai_revised09.pdf |
| FWS Resource Links | http://library.fws.gov |
| Subject |
Document Wildlife refuges Planning |
| Location |
Region 7 Alaska |
| FWS Site |
KENAI NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE |
| Publisher | U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service |
| Date of Original | August 2009 |
| Type | Text |
| Format | |
| Source | NCTC Conservation Library |
| Rights | Public domain |
| File Size | 1716881 Bytes |
| Original Format | Document |
| Length | 19 |
| Full Resolution File Size | 1716881 Bytes |
| Transcript | 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 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 photos from Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Image LibraryRevised Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement Volume 1 Kenai National Wildlife Refuge August 2009 Prepared by: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Region 7 Kenai National Wildlife Refuge 2139 Ski Hill Road P.O. Box 2139 Soldotna, Alaska 99669-2139 Alaska Regional Office Division of Conservation Planning & Policy 1011 East Tudor Rd., MS-231 Anchorage, AK 99503 Thank you for participating in our planning process! Your comments will help us prepare a better plan for the future of Kenai Refuge. United States Department of the Interior FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE Regional Office, National Wildlife Refuge System-Alaska Division of Conservation Planning & Policy 1011 East Tudor Road Anchorage, Alaska 99503 (907) 786-3357 Dear Reader: This Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan (Plan) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge will guide management of the Refuge for the next 15 years. This Plan revises the Refuge’s original comprehensive conservation plan completed in 1985. It outlines five management alternatives, including our preferred alternative, addresses management issues raised during public scoping, and presents our evaluation of the impacts associated with implementing each alternative. This Plan has been published in two volumes. Volume 1 contains the background, issues, and analysis. Volume 2 contains the supporting appendices. This Plan incorporates changes based on comments received on the Draft Plan. Those comments and our responses are presented in Volume 2, Appendix D. Most comments required only that we clarify or make minor corrections to the text. Others were more involved. For example, Objective 2.9 was re-written to remove the population objectives for Dall sheep and mountain goats in response to concerns expressed by the State of Alaska. Another change was to propose a change in regulations to allow the Refuge Manager to grant special use permits, for airplane access to normally closed lakes, to successful applicants in the State’s limited drawing hunt program. Most people will be unaffected by changes in Refuge management. For example, there will be no changes to how dog mushing activities can be performed on the Refuge. Public involvement in the planning process is essential for development of an effective plan. While there will be no formal public review of this final Plan and EIS, comments on the plan will be considered until September 28, 2009. Comments should be specific, addressing merits of the alternatives and adequacy of the analysis. We will consider these comments as we prepare the Record of Decision. The Record of Decision will complete the comprehensive conservation planning process for Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. You may view the Plan or a Summary of the Plan online at: http://www.r7.fws.gov/nwr/planning/plans.htm or obtain a compact disk with both versions. Comments and requests for copies of the Plan, the Summary, or a compact disk with both should be directed to: Requests for further information about the Refuge should be directed to: Peter Wikoff, Planning Team Leader U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service 1011 E. Tudor Road, MS-231 Anchorage, AK 99503 Phone: (907) 786-3357 Email: fw7_kenai_planning@fws.gov Refuge Manager Kenai National Wildlife Refuge 2139 Ski Hill Road P.O. Box 2139 Soldotna, Alaska 99669-2139 Phone: (907) 262-7021 Email: kenai@fws.gov Table of Contents Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan v Table of Contents Title Page .............................................................................................................................................................. i Dear Reader Letter ........................................................................................................................................... iii Table of Contents ................................................................................................................................................ v Acronyms and Abbreviations ........................................................................................................................... xix 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 1.2.4 Legal and Policy Guidance and State Coordination ................................................................. 1-5 1.2.4.1 Legal Guidance .................................................................................................................... 1-5 1.2.4.2 Policy Guidance .................................................................................................................... 1-5 1.2.4.3 Coordination with the State of Alaska ............................................................................... 1-6 1.3 Planning Area ................................................................................................................................. 1-7 1.3.1 Establishment of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge ................................................................... 1-8 1.4 Refuge Purposes, Vision, and Goals ............................................................................................ 1-11 1.4.1 Refuge Purposes ........................................................................................................................ 1-11 1.4.2 Our Vision for Kenai National Wildlife Refuge....................................................................... 1-11 1.4.3 Refuge Goals ............................................................................................................................... 1-12 1.5 Refuge Overview ........................................................................................................................... 1-13 1.5.1 Historical Perspective ................................................................................................................ 1-13 1.5.2 Refuge Environment ................................................................................................................. 1-15 1.5.2.1 Physical Environment ....................................................................................................... 1-15 1.5.2.2 Biological Environment .................................................................................................... 1-15 1.5.2.3 Human Uses ....................................................................................................................... 1-16 1.6 Special Values ............................................................................................................................... 1-17 1.6.1 Refuge Characteristics Valued by the Public.......................................................................... 1-17 1.6.2 Valued Ecosystems and Places ................................................................................................. 1-17 1.6.2.1 Chickaloon Watershed and Estuary ................................................................................ 1-17 1.6.2.2 Harding Icefield ................................................................................................................. 1-17 1.6.2.3 Kenai River and its Tributaries ....................................................................................... 1-17 1.6.2.4 Lowland Lakes System ..................................................................................................... 1-17 1.6.2.5 Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area ....................................................................................... 1-18 1.6.2.6 Tustumena Lake and its Watershed ................................................................................ 1-18 1.6.2.7 Tustumena-Skilak Benchlands ......................................................................................... 1-18 1.7 The Planning Process ................................................................................................................... 1-21 1.7.1 Preplanning ................................................................................................................................ 1-21 1.7.2 Initiate Public Involvement and Scoping ................................................................................. 1-22 1.7.3 Determine Significant Issues .................................................................................................... 1-26 1.7.4 Develop and Analyze Alternatives ........................................................................................... 1-26 1.7.5 Prepare Draft Plan and Environmental Impact Statement .................................................. 1-26 1.7.6 Prepare and Adopt a Final Plan and Environmental Impact Statement ............................. 1-27 1.7.7 Implement Plan, Monitor, and Evaluate ................................................................................. 1-27 1.7.8 Review and Revise Plan ............................................................................................................ 1-27 1.8 Issues ............................................................................................................................................. 1-27 1.9 Significant Planning Issues .......................................................................................................... 1-32 1.10 References .................................................................................................................................... 1-35 Table of Contents vi Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan 2. Alternatives, Goals, and Objectives ...................................................................................................... 2-1 2.1 Alternatives ..................................................................................................................................... 2-1 2.1.1 Process Used to Develop Alternatives ....................................................................................... 2-1 2.1.2 Alternatives Considered But Eliminated from Detailed Study .............................................. 2-2 Issue: Crowding on the Upper Kenai River ....................................................................................... 2-2 2.1.3 Elements Common to All Alternatives ...................................................................................... 2-5 2.1.4 Management Direction Common To All Alternatives .............................................................. 2-6 2.1.4.1 Beetle Kill Trees/Fire Safety ............................................................................................. 2-6 2.1.4.2 Cultural Resources Management ...................................................................................... 2-6 2.1.4.3 Existing Oil and Gas Units ................................................................................................. 2-6 2.1.4.4 Integrated Research and Monitoring ................................................................................ 2-6 2.1.4.5 Kenai River Scenic Float Trip Guides ............................................................................... 2-7 2.1.4.6 Land Management Training Facility ................................................................................ 2-7 2.1.4.7 Law Enforcement ................................................................................................................ 2-7 2.1.4.8 Moose Range Meadows Non-Development Easement .................................................... 2-7 2.1.4.9 Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area ......................................................................................... 2-7 2.1.4.10 Subsurface Entitlements to Minerals ................................................................................ 2-7 2.1.4.11 Visitor Center ....................................................................................................................... 2-8 2.1.4.12 Wildlife/Habitat Restoration .............................................................................................. 2-8 2.1.5 Alternative A—Current Management ....................................................................................... 2-8 2.1.5.1 General Management Direction ......................................................................................... 2-8 2.1.5.2 Management Categories ................................................................................................... 2-11 2.1.5.3 Management Direction Identified By Issue.................................................................... 2-12 2.1.5.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements............................................................................ 2-25 2.1.6 Alternative B ............................................................................................................................... 2-27 2.1.6.1 General Management Direction ....................................................................................... 2-27 2.1.6.2 Management Categories ................................................................................................... 2-27 2.1.6.3 Management Direction Identified By Issue.................................................................... 2-27 2.1.6.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements............................................................................ 2-40 2.1.7 Alternative C ............................................................................................................................... 2-44 2.1.7.1 General Management Direction ....................................................................................... 2-44 2.1.7.2 Management Categories ................................................................................................... 2-44 2.1.7.3 Management Direction Identified By Issue.................................................................... 2-44 2.1.7.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements............................................................................ 2-53 2.1.8 Alternative D .............................................................................................................................. 2-61 2.1.8.1 General Management Direction ....................................................................................... 2-61 2.1.8.2 Management Categories ................................................................................................... 2-61 2.1.8.3 Management Direction Identified By Issue.................................................................... 2-61 2.1.8.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements............................................................................ 2-77 2.1.9 Alternative E — The Preferred Alternative ........................................................................... 2-78 2.1.9.1 General Management Direction ....................................................................................... 2-78 2.1.9.2 Management Categories ................................................................................................... 2-78 2.1.9.3 Management Direction Identified By Issue.................................................................... 2-79 2.1.9.4 Funding and Personnel Requirements............................................................................ 2-95 2.1.10 Comparison of the Alternatives ................................................................................................ 2-97 2.2 Refuge Purposes, Goals, and Objectives ................................................................................... 2-111 2.2.1 Refuge Purpose (i) .................................................................................................................... 2-111 2.2.2 Refuge Purpose (ii)................................................................................................................... 2-130 2.2.3 Refuge Purpose (iii) ................................................................................................................. 2-132 2.2.4 Refuge Purpose (iv) .................................................................................................................. 2-134 2.2.5 Refuge Purpose (v) ................................................................................................................... 2-141 2.2.6 The Wilderness Act Purpose for the Kenai Wilderness Area ............................................. 2-148 2.3 Common Management Direction, Policies, and Guidelines .................................................... 2-150 Table of Contents Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan vii 2.4 Comparison of Previous and New Management Policies and Guidelines ............................. 2-151 2.5 References .................................................................................................................................. 2-162 3. Affected Environment ............................................................................................................................ 3-1 3.1 Geographic Setting ......................................................................................................................... 3-1 3.1.1 Refuge History ............................................................................................................................. 3-1 3.1.2 Agreements, Decisions, and Legislation .................................................................................... 3-2 3.1.3 Existing Land Status ................................................................................................................... 3-3 3.1.4 Land Acquisition and Habitat Protection History ................................................................... 3-4 3.2 Physical Environment .................................................................................................................... 3-8 3.2.1 Climate ......................................................................................................................................... 3-9 3.2.2 Landforms .................................................................................................................................... 3-9 3.2.3 Geology ......................................................................................................................................... 3-9 3.2.4 Oil and Gas Occurrences and Potential .................................................................................... 3-10 3.2.4.1 Swanson River and Soldotna Creek Unit ........................................................................ 3-13 3.2.4.2 Beaver Creek Unit............................................................................................................. 3-14 3.2.4.3 Birch Hill Unit ................................................................................................................... 3-15 3.2.4.4 Wolf Lake Facilities .......................................................................................................... 3-15 3.2.4.5 East Swanson River Satellite Project ............................................................................. 3-16 3.2.4.6 Cook Inlet Region, Inc., Exploratory Drilling ................................................................ 3-17 3.2.4.7 Gas Storage ........................................................................................................................ 3-18 3.2.4.8 Compatibility Determination............................................................................................ 3-18 3.2.5 Environmental Contaminants ................................................................................................... 3-19 3.2.5.1 Contamination from Activities Associated with the Oil and Gas Industry .............................................................................................................................. 3-19 3.2.5.2 Atmospheric Deposition .................................................................................................... 3-20 3.2.5.3 Biologically Transported Contaminants ......................................................................... 3-20 3.2.5.4 Aromatic Hydrocarbons from Boat Traffic .................................................................... 3-21 3.2.5.5 Other Point and Nonpoint Contaminant Sources Outside the Refuge ............................. 3-21 3.2.6 Water Resources ........................................................................................................................ 3-22 3.2.7 Air Resources ............................................................................................................................. 3-23 3.2.8 Concerns Regarding the Physical Environment .................................................................... 3-24 3.2.8.1 Climate Change ................................................................................................................. 3-24 3.2.8.2 Noise Pollution ................................................................................................................... 3-25 3.2.8.3 Oil and Gas Units Industrial Footprint ........................................................................... 3-27 3.3 Biological Environment ................................................................................................................ 3-29 3.3.1 Ecosystems ................................................................................................................................ 3-29 3.3.2 Landscape Types ........................................................................................................................ 3-29 3.3.2.1 White Spruce ...................................................................................................................... 3-30 3.3.2.2 Black Spruce ...................................................................................................................... 3-30 3.3.2.3 Hemlock .............................................................................................................................. 3-33 3.3.2.4 Hardwood ........................................................................................................................... 3-33 3.3.2.5 Mixed Hardwood-Softwood .............................................................................................. 3-34 3.3.2.6 Subalpine Shrub ................................................................................................................. 3-34 3.3.2.7 Lowland Shrub ................................................................................................................... 3-34 3.3.2.8 Alpine Shrub–Lichen Tundra ........................................................................................... 3-35 3.3.2.9 Wetlands (Fens and Peatlands) ....................................................................................... 3-35 3.3.2.10 Herbaceous and Grass ...................................................................................................... 3-35 3.3.3 Special Terrestrial Habitats ...................................................................................................... 3-35 3.3.3.1 Riparian Habitats .............................................................................................................. 3-35 3.3.3.2 Estuary ............................................................................................................................... 3-36 3.3.3.3 Cliffs ................................................................................................................................... 3-36 3.3.3.4 Islands in Lakes ................................................................................................................. 3-36 3.3.3.5 Gravel and Rock (Outwash Plains, River Floodplains, Alpine Rock) ........................... 3-36 Table of Contents viii Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan 3.3.3.6 Snow, Ice, and Glaciers ..................................................................................................... 3-37 3.3.3.7 Nunataks and Other Unglaciated Areas ......................................................................... 3-37 3.3.4 Lakes and Streams ..................................................................................................................... 3-38 3.3.4.1 Anadromous Fish Streams ............................................................................................... 3-38 3.3.4.2 Resident Fish Streams ...................................................................................................... 3-38 3.3.4.3 Anadromous Lakes ............................................................................................................ 3-38 3.3.4.4 Resident Lakes .................................................................................................................. 3-39 3.3.5 Natural Disturbance Processes ................................................................................................ 3-39 3.3.5.1 Spruce Bark Beetles and Other Insects .......................................................................... 3-39 3.3.5.2 Fires ................................................................................................................................... 3-47 3.3.5.3 Avalanches .......................................................................................................................... 3-48 3.3.5.4 Windstorms ........................................................................................................................ 3-49 3.3.5.5 Flooding .............................................................................................................................. 3-49 3.3.5.6 Earthquakes and Volcanoes ............................................................................................. 3-49 3.3.5.7 Receding Glaciers and Icefields ....................................................................................... 3-50 3.3.6 Concerns Regarding Habitat .................................................................................................... 3-50 3.3.6.1 Habitat Changes Since 1985 ............................................................................................. 3-50 3.3.6.2 Rising Tree Line (Krummholz) ........................................................................................ 3-51 3.3.6.3 Drying Wetlands, Shrinking Lake Surface Area ........................................................... 3-52 3.3.6.4 Lowland Hemlock .............................................................................................................. 3-52 3.3.6.5 Old-Growth Forest ............................................................................................................ 3-53 3.3.6.6 Exotic, Invasive, and Injurious Flora .............................................................................. 3-53 3.3.6.7 Damage and Disturbance Due to Legal and Illegal Use of Snowmachines and Off-Road Motorized Vehicles .......................................................... 3-54 3.3.7 Wildlife ....................................................................................................................................... 3-56 3.3.7.1 Threatened and Endangered Species .............................................................................. 3-56 3.3.7.2 Species of Special Concern ............................................................................................... 3-57 3.3.7.3 Wildlife ............................................................................................................................... 3-58 3.3.8 Concerns Regarding Wildlife Populations ............................................................................... 3-90 3.3.8.1 Declining Moose Populations............................................................................................ 3-90 3.3.8.2 Status of Brown Bear Populations ................................................................................... 3-91 3.3.8.3 Human Disturbance of Trumpeter Swans ...................................................................... 3-92 3.3.8.4 Abnormal Bills on Black-Capped Chickadees and Other Avifauna .............................. 3-97 3.3.8.5 High Rates of Abnormalities in Wood Frogs .................................................................. 3-98 3.3.8.6 Exotic, Invasive, and Injurious Fauna ............................................................................ 3-98 3.3.8.7 Wildlife Diseases .............................................................................................................. 3-101 3.3.8.8 Diseases that May Emerge in Wildlife Populations ..................................................... 3-101 3.3.8.9 Global Climate Change.................................................................................................... 3-104 3.3.8.10 Cumulative Effects of Anthropogenic Development and Activities ........................... 3-105 3.3.8.11 Effects of Culverts on Fisheries .................................................................................... 3-106 3.3.8.12 Loss of Biodiversity ......................................................................................................... 3-107 3.3.9 Special Designated Areas ........................................................................................................ 3-107 3.3.9.1 Legislative Designations ................................................................................................. 3-108 3.3.9.2 Administrative Designations .......................................................................................... 3-111 3.4 Human Environment .................................................................................................................. 3-112 3.4.1 Local History and Cultural Resources ................................................................................... 3-112 3.4.2 Population ................................................................................................................................ 3-115 3.4.3 Economy ................................................................................................................................... 3-117 3.4.3.1 Employment and Income ................................................................................................ 3-117 3.4.3.2 Economic Significance of Kenai Refuge within the Kenai Peninsula Borough Economy ........................................................................................................... 3-119 3.4.3.3 Economic Significance of Recreational Visits ............................................................... 3-120 3.4.3.4 Economic Significance of Cook Inlet Commercial Fishing ......................................... 3-120 Table of Contents Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan ix 3.4.4 Access ....................................................................................................................................... 3-121 3.4.4.1 Roads and Seismic Lines ................................................................................................ 3-121 3.4.4.2 Pipelines and Utility Right-of-Ways .............................................................................. 3-125 3.4.4.3 Airplane Landing Areas .................................................................................................. 3-126 3.4.4.4 Snowmachines .................................................................................................................. 3-128 3.4.4.5 Rivers and Trails ............................................................................................................. 3-134 3.4.5 Facilities ................................................................................................................................... 3-136 3.4.5.1 Campgrounds ................................................................................................................... 3-136 3.4.5.2 Cabins ............................................................................................................................... 3-138 3.4.5.3 Interpretation and Environmental Education Facilities ............................................. 3-139 3.4.5.4 Maintenance Facilities .................................................................................................... 3-139 3.4.5.5 Administrative Facilities ................................................................................................. 3-140 3.4.6 Public Uses ............................................................................................................................... 3-140 3.4.6.1 Fishing .............................................................................................................................. 3-141 3.4.6.2 Hunting and Trapping .................................................................................................... 3-144 3.4.6.3 Wildlife Viewing and Photography ................................................................................ 3-148 3.4.6.4 Interpretation and Education ........................................................................................ 3-149 3.4.6.5 Commercial Services ....................................................................................................... 3-150 3.4.6.6 Subsistence ....................................................................................................................... 3-151 3.4.7 Concerns Regarding the Human Environment .................................................................... 3-153 3.4.7.1 Wildland-Urban Interface Management(WUI) ........................................................... 3-153 3.5 Wilderness Values ....................................................................................................................... 3-155 3.5.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 3-155 3.5.2 The Kenai Wilderness .............................................................................................................. 3-157 3.5.2.1 Size ................................................................................................................................... 3-158 3.5.2.2 Naturalness and Wildness .............................................................................................. 3-158 3.5.2.3 Opportunities for Primitive Recreation ........................................................................ 3-159 3.5.3 Areas Recommended for Wilderness Designation in the 1988 Supplemental Review ...................................................................................................................................... 3-159 3.5.4 Refuge Units Outside the Designated Kenai Wilderness .................................................... 3-160 3.5.4.1 Two Indians Unit ............................................................................................................. 3-163 3.5.4.2 Pipeline Lowlands Unit ................................................................................................... 3-164 3.5.4.3 Chickaloon Flats Unit ..................................................................................................... 3-164 3.5.4.4 Lark Lake Unit ................................................................................................................ 3-165 3.5.4.5 Oilfields Unit .................................................................................................................... 3-166 3.5.4.6 Research Center Unit ..................................................................................................... 3-166 3.5.4.7 Moose River/Mystery Creek Unit ................................................................................. 3-167 3.5.4.8 Skilak Loop/Lake Unit .................................................................................................... 3-168 3.5.4.9 Headquarters Unit .......................................................................................................... 3-169 3.5.4.10 Tustumena Outlet Unit ................................................................................................... 3-170 3.5.5 Concerns Regarding Wilderness ............................................................................................ 3-171 3.5.5.1 Fire Management Impacts on Naturalness .................................................................. 3-171 3.5.5.2 Impacts of Motorized Use on Opportunities for Solitude............................................ 3-172 3.6 River Values ............................................................................................................................... 3-173 3.6.1 Introduction .............................................................................................................................. 3-173 3.6.2 Kenai River ............................................................................................................................... 3-174 3.6.2.1 Cultural, Historic, and Prehistoric Values .................................................................... 3-174 3.6.2.2 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-177 3.6.2.3 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-177 3.6.2.4 Recreation Values ............................................................................................................ 3-177 3.6.3 Swanson River .......................................................................................................................... 3-178 3.6.3.1 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-178 3.6.3.2 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-178 Table of Contents x Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan 3.6.3.3 Recreation Values ............................................................................................................ 3-178 3.6.4 Moose River .............................................................................................................................. 3-178 3.6.4.1 Cultural, Historic, and Prehistoric Values .................................................................... 3-179 3.6.4.2 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-179 3.6.4.3 Wildness ............................................................................................................................ 3-179 3.6.4.4 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-179 3.6.4.5 Recreation Values ............................................................................................................ 3-179 3.6.5 Russian River........................................................................................................................... 3-179 3.6.5.1 Cultural, Historic, and Prehistoric Values .................................................................... 3-180 3.6.5.2 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-180 3.6.5.3 Wildness ............................................................................................................................ 3-180 3.6.5.4 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-180 3.6.5.5 Recreation Values ............................................................................................................ 3-180 3.6.6 Chickaloon River / Mystery Creek ......................................................................................... 3-181 3.6.6.1 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-181 3.6.6.2 Wildness ............................................................................................................................ 3-181 3.6.6.3 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-181 3.6.7 Fox River.................................................................................................................................. 3-181 3.6.7.1 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-182 3.6.7.2 Wildness ............................................................................................................................ 3-182 3.6.7.3 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-182 3.6.8 Killey River ............................................................................................................................... 3-182 3.6.8.1 Scenic and Geologic Values ............................................................................................. 3-182 3.6.8.2 Wildness ............................................................................................................................ 3-182 3.6.8.3 Fish and Wildlife Values ................................................................................................. 3-182 3.7 Refuge Infrastructure and Administration .............................................................................. 3-183 3.7.1 Administrative Facilities ......................................................................................................... 3-183 3.7.1.1 Headquarters Area .......................................................................................................... 3-183 3.7.1.2 Remote Facilities ............................................................................................................. 3-184 3.7.1.3 Roads ................................................................................................................................ 3-185 3.7.2 Refuge Staffing ......................................................................................................................... 3-185 3.8 References .................................................................................................................................. 3-186 4. Environmental Consequences ............................................................................................................... 4-1 4.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 4-1 4.2 Definition of Terms ......................................................................................................................... 4-1 4.2.1 Impact Type ................................................................................................................................. 4-1 4.2.2 Duration of Impact ....................................................................................................................... 4-2 4.2.3 Intensity of Impact ....................................................................................................................... 4-2 4.2.4 Context or Scale of Impact .......................................................................................................... 4-3 4.3 Key Indicators and Assumptions................................................................................................... 4-3 4.4 Analyses .......................................................................................................................................... 4-3 4.4.1 Use of Fire as a Management Tool............................................................................................. 4-3 4.4.1.1 Physical Environment ......................................................................................................... 4-4 4.4.1.2 Biological Environment ..................................................................................................... 4-11 4.4.1.3 Human Environment ......................................................................................................... 4-14 4.4.2 Swanson River Oil and Gas Unit............................................................................................... 4-21 4.4.2.1 Physical Environment ....................................................................................................... 4-22 4.4.2.2 Biological Environment ..................................................................................................... 4-25 4.4.2.3 Human Environment ......................................................................................................... 4-30 4.4.2.4 River Values ....................................................................................................................... 4-40 4.4.2.5 Wilderness Values ............................................................................................................. 4-42 4.4.3 Beaver Creek Oil and Gas Unit ................................................................................................ 4-44 4.4.3.1 Physical Environment ....................................................................................................... 4-45 Table of Contents Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xi 4.4.3.2 Biological Environment .................................................................................................... 4-46 4.4.3.3 Human Environment......................................................................................................... 4-49 4.4.3.4 Wilderness Values ............................................................................................................. 4-52 4.4.4 Mystery Creek Access Road and Pipeline Corridor .............................................................. 4-53 4.4.4.1 Physical Environment ....................................................................................................... 4-54 4.4.4.2 Biological Environment .................................................................................................... 4-62 4.4.4.3 Human Environment......................................................................................................... 4-71 4.4.5 Ski Hill Road ............................................................................................................................... 4-87 4.4.5.1 Physical Environment ....................................................................................................... 4-88 4.4.5.2 Biological Environment .................................................................................................... 4-94 4.4.5.3 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-100 4.4.6 Sterling Highway Pullout ........................................................................................................ 4-103 4.4.6.1 Physical Environment ..................................................................................................... 4-103 4.4.6.2 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-104 4.4.7 Swanson River and Swan Lake Canoe Systems ................................................................... 4-106 4.4.7.1 Physical Environment ..................................................................................................... 4-106 4.4.7.2 Biological Environment .................................................................................................. 4-110 4.4.7.3 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-114 4.4.8 Upper Kenai River (Russian River to Skilak Lake) ............................................................. 4-119 4.4.8.1 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-119 4.4.9 Middle Kenai River (Skilak Lake Downstream to Refuge Boundary) ............................... 4-128 4.4.9.1 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-129 4.4.10 Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness ........................................................... 4-136 4.4.10.1 Biological Environment .................................................................................................. 4-136 4.4.10.2 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-143 4.4.11 Airplane Access to Chickaloon Flats ...................................................................................... 4-152 4.4.11.1 Physical Environment ..................................................................................................... 4-152 4.4.11.2 Biological Environment .................................................................................................. 4-154 4.4.11.3 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-159 4.4.12 Snowmachine Access ............................................................................................................... 4-163 4.4.12.1 Biological Environment .................................................................................................. 4-164 4.4.12.2 Human Environment....................................................................................................... 4-168 4.4.13 Cumulative Impacts ................................................................................................................. 4-173 4.4.13.1 Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 4-173 4.4.13.2 Physical Environment ..................................................................................................... 4-173 4.4.13.3 Biological Environment .................................................................................................. 4-179 4.4.13.4 Socioeconomic Environment .......................................................................................... 4-184 4.5 Mitigation .................................................................................................................................... 4-190 4.6 Relationship Between Short-Term Use of the Environment and Long-Term Productivity ................................................................................................................................ 4-190 4.7 Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitment of Resources ..................................................... 4-191 4.8 Environmental Justice ................................................................................................................ 4-191 4.9 Section 810 Evaluation ............................................................................................................... 4-192 4.10 Summary Comparison of Environmental Effects ................................................................... 4-193 4.11 References .................................................................................................................................. 4-193 5. Evaluation of the Alternatives............................................................................................................... 5-1 5.1 Evaluation Criteria ......................................................................................................................... 5-1 5.2 Response to Refuge Purposes ....................................................................................................... 5-1 5.3 Response to National Wildlife Refuge System Mission .............................................................. 5-2 5.4 Response to Refuge Goals .............................................................................................................. 5-2 5.5 Response to Issues .......................................................................................................................... 5-3 5.5.1 How will the Refuge address large-scale habitat changes and the use of fire ....................... 5-3 Table of Contents xii Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan 5.5.2 How will the Refuge manage existing facilities for public use while ensuring resource protection? ..................................................................................................................... 5-3 5.5.2.1 Swanson River and Beaver Creek Oil and Gas Units ...................................................... 5-3 5.5.2.2 Mystery Creek Access Road and Pipeline Corridor ........................................................ 5-4 5.5.2.3 Trail Planning and Development ....................................................................................... 5-4 5.5.2.4 Ski Hill Road ........................................................................................................................ 5-4 5.5.2.5 Sterling Highway Pullout ................................................................................................... 5-5 5.5.3 How will the Refuge enhance wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities? ......................... 5-5 5.5.3.1 Personal Collection of Natural Resources ........................................................................ 5-5 5.5.3.2 Christmas Tree Harvesting ................................................................................................ 5-5 5.5.4 How will the Refuge manage increasing public use to ensure resource and visitor-experience protection? ..................................................................................................... 5-5 5.5.4.1 Swanson River and Swan Lake Canoe Systems ............................................................... 5-5 5.5.4.2 Upper Kenai River (Russian River to Skilak Lake) ........................................................ 5-5 5.5.4.3 Middle Kenai River (Skilak Lake Downstream to the Refuge Boundary) ............................................................................................................................. 5-6 5.5.5 How will the Refuge balance motorized access with resource and visitor-experiences protection? ............................................................................................................... 5-7 5.5.5.1 Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness ....................................................... 5-7 5.5.5.2 Airplane Access to Chickaloon Flats ................................................................................. 5-7 5.5.5.3 Snowmachine Access ........................................................................................................... 5-7 5.6 Response to Biological Integrity and Ecosystem Management ................................................ 5-8 5.7 Response to Area-Related ADF&G Management Plans .......................................................... 5-10 6. Implementation and Monitoring ........................................................................................................... 6-1 6.1 Introduction .................................................................................................................................... 6-1 6.2 Regulations ..................................................................................................................................... 6-1 6.3 Current Step-Down Plans .............................................................................................................. 6-1 6.3.1 Cabin Management Plan ............................................................................................................. 6-2 6.3.2 Caribou Management Plan .......................................................................................................... 6-2 6.3.3 Fire Management Plan ................................................................................................................ 6-2 6.3.4 Fishery Management Plan .......................................................................................................... 6-2 6.3.5 Furbearer Management Plan ..................................................................................................... 6-2 6.3.6 Kenai Peninsula Brown Bear Conservation Strategy .............................................................. 6-2 6.3.7 Kenai River Comprehensive Management Plan ....................................................................... 6-3 6.3.8 Kenai River Easement Management Strategy ......................................................................... 6-3 6.3.9 Moose Management Plan ............................................................................................................ 6-3 6.3.10 Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area Management Plan ................................................................. 6-3 6.3.11 Swanson River and Swan Lake Road Visitor Facilities Rehabilitation .................................. 6-4 6.3.12 Upper Kenai River Commercial Visitor Services Management Strategy ............................. 6-4 6.3.13 Upper Kenai River Cooperative Plan ........................................................................................ 6-4 6.3.14 Wolf Management Operational Plan .......................................................................................... 6-4 6.3.15 Land Protection Plan ................................................................................................................... 6-4 6.4 Future Step-Down Plans ................................................................................................................ 6-5 6.4.1 Terrestrial and Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan.................................................. 6-5 6.4.2 Sqilantnu Archeological District Management Plan ................................................................ 6-5 6.4.3 Stepanka Archeological District Management Plan ................................................................ 6-5 6.4.4 Kenai Law Enforcement Operations Plan ................................................................................. 6-5 6.4.5 Kenai Trails Needs Assessment and Management Plan ......................................................... 6-5 6.4.6 Kenai Refuge Sign Plan ............................................................................................................... 6-5 6.4.7 Kenai Wilderness Stewardship Plan .......................................................................................... 6-6 6.4.8 Wildland Fire Monitoring Plan ................................................................................................... 6-6 6.4.9 Wildlife Inventory and Monitoring Plan .................................................................................... 6-6 6.4.10 Research Natural Areas Management Plan .............................................................................. 6-6 Table of Contents Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xiii 6.5 Partnership Opportunities ............................................................................................................. 6-6 6.5.1 Existing Partnerships .................................................................................................................. 6-7 6.5.1.1 Biological Partnerships ....................................................................................................... 6-7 6.5.1.2 Sterling Highway Partnership ........................................................................................... 6-7 6.5.1.3 Christmas Bird Count Partnership ................................................................................... 6-8 6.5.1.4 Long Term Ecological Monitoring Partnership ............................................................... 6-8 6.5.1.5 Alaska Landscape Cumulative Effects Partnership ........................................................ 6-8 6.5.1.6 Invasive Species Partnership ............................................................................................. 6-8 6.5.1.7 University Partnerships ..................................................................................................... 6-8 6.5.1.8 Visitor Contact Partnerships .............................................................................................. 6-9 6.5.1.9 Environmental Education and Outreach Partnerships ................................................... 6-9 6.6 Monitoring and Evaluation ............................................................................................................ 6-9 6.7 Plan Amendment and Revision ...................................................................................................... 6-9 6.8 Acronyms ...................................................................................................................................... 6-10 6.9 Reference .......................................................................................................................................... 46 7. Consultation and Coordination with Others ........................................................................................ 7-1 7.1 Section 7 Compliance ...................................................................................................................... 7-1 7.2 Memorandums of Understanding and Agreement ...................................................................... 7-1 7.3 Consistency with the Alaska Coastal Management Program/Kenai Peninsula Borough Coastal Management Plan ............................................................................................. 7-3 Appendices ~ Volume 2 A Legal Guidance and Planning Coordination B Coordination with the State of Alaska C Management Direction, Policies, and Guidelines D Comments Received and Our Response to Comments E Easements and Right-of-Ways F Species List G Assessing River Values—Methodology and Results H Preparers I Mailing List J Glossary Table of Contents xiv Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan Tables ~ Volume 1 Table 1-1. Location, Attendance, and Dates of Public Meetings .......................................................... 1-22 Table 1-2. Wildlife and Habitat-Related Concerns Identified During Scoping .................................. 1-23 Table 1-3. Recreation-Related Concerns Identified During Scoping .................................................. 1-24 Table 1-4. Crowding-Related Concerns Identified During Scoping .................................................... 1-24 Table 1-5. Facilities-Related Concerns Identified During Scoping ..................................................... 1-25 Table 1-6. Access-Related Concerns Identified During Scoping ......................................................... 1-25 Table 1-7. Addressing Issues Raised During Scoping ........................................................................... 1-29 Table 2-1. Differences Between Traditional and Minimal Management Under Alternative A ............................................................................................................................ 2-12 Table 2-2. Alternative A Budget Needs .................................................................................................. 2-25 Table 2-3. Alternative A Staffing Needs Beyond Current Levels ....................................................... 2-26 Table 2-4. Alternative B Budget Needs Beyond Current Levels ......................................................... 2-43 Table 2-5. Alternative B Staffing Needs Beyond Current Levels ....................................................... 2-43 Table 2-6. Alternative C Budget Needs Beyond Current Levels ......................................................... 2-54 Table 2-7. Alternative C Staffing Needs Beyond Current Levels ....................................................... 2-54 Table 2-8. Alternative D Budget Needs Beyond Current Levels ........................................................ 2-77 Table 2-9. Alternative D Staffing Needs beyond Current Levels ........................................................ 2-78 Table 2-10. Alternative E Budget Needs Beyond Current Levels ........................................................ 2-95 Table 2-11. Alternative E Staffing Needs beyond Current Levels ........................................................ 2-96 Table 2-12. Comparison of the Alternatives Identified By Issue and Management Action ....................................................................................................................................... 2-97 Table 2-13. Comparison of Current and New Management Direction (Alternative A compared with Alternatives B – E) ......................................................................................2-152 Table 3-1. The 18 Landscape Types on the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge ...................................... 3-29 Table 3-2. Population spike in the Kenai area following the first major oil strike (1957) .......................................................................................................................................3-116 Table 3-3. Population changes in selected communities, Kenai Peninsula Borough .........................3-116 Table 3-4. Economic significance of Kenai Refuge-dependent activities (1997 and 2004) ........................................................................................................................................3-120 Table 3-5. Roads within Kenai National Wildlife Refuge .....................................................................3-122 Table 3-6. Dates and season of snowmachine use (1976 - 2006) ...........................................................3-130 Table 3-7. River Access within the Kenai Refuge .................................................................................3-135 Table 3-8. Trails within Kenai National Wildlife Refuge .....................................................................3-137 Table 3-9. Campgrounds ..........................................................................................................................3-138 Table 3-10. Public use cabins .....................................................................................................................3-138 Table 3-11. Maintenance facilities .............................................................................................................3-140 Table 3-12. Facilities located at the headquarters area .........................................................................3-183 Table 3-13. Remote facilities .....................................................................................................................3-184 Table 4-1. Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness Listed By Alternative ...............................................................................................................................4-149 Table 4-2. Summary Comparison of the Effects of Implementing the Alternatives .........................4-194 Table 5-1. Evaluation of the Alternatives Based on Significant Planning Issues ................................. 5-9 Table 6-1. Biological Inventorying and Monitoring Plan ...................................................................... 6-12 Table 6-2. Public Use Inventorying and Monitoring Plan .................................................................... 6-34 Table of Contents Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xv Tables ~ Volume 2 Table C-1. Activities, Public Uses, Commercial Uses, and Facilities by Management Category .................................................................................................................................. C-46 Table E-1. State Claimed RS 2477 Routes within the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge .......................E-5 Table E-2. Active Right-of-Way Permits ...................................................................................................E-6 Table G-1. Attributes and Measurements Used To Conduct Outstandingly Remarkable Value Assessment ............................................................................................... G-7 Table G-2. Kenai River Evaluation ............................................................................................................ G-8 Table G-3. Moose River Evaluation ........................................................................................................... G-9 Table G-4. Russian River Evaluation ....................................................................................................... G-10 Table G-5. Killey River Evaluation .......................................................................................................... G-11 Table G-6. Swanson River Value .............................................................................................................. G-12 Table G-7. Fox River Evaluation .............................................................................................................. G-13 Table G-8. Chickaloon River Evaluation ................................................................................................. G-14 Table G-9. Comparison of River Values Evaluation ............................................................................... G-15 Figures ~ Volume 1 Figure 1-1. National Wildlife Refuges in Alaska ........................................................................................ 1-3 Figure 1-2. State of Alaska Game Management Unit 15 ............................................................................ 1-7 Figure 1-3. Location of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge ............................................................................ 1-9 Figure 1-4. Special Values of Kenai National Wildlife Refuge ................................................................ 1-19 Figure 1-5. The Planning Process .............................................................................................................. 1-21 Figure 2-1. Alternative A - Current Management Categories .................................................................. 2-9 Figure 2-2. Alternative A - Current Fire Management ........................................................................... 2-13 Figure 2-3. Alternative A - Current Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness North of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................... 2-19 Figure 2-4. Alternative A - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness South of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-21 Figure 2-5. Alternative A - Current Chickaloon Flats Airplane Access ................................................. 2-23 Figure 2-6. Alternative B - Management Categories ............................................................................... 2-29 Figure 2-7. Alternative B - Fire Management .......................................................................................... 2-31 Figure 2-8. Alternative B - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness North of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-35 Figure 2-9. Alternative B - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness South of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-37 Figure 2-10. Alternative B - Chickaloon Flats Airplane Access ................................................................ 2-41 Figure 2-11. Alternative C - Management Categories ............................................................................... 2-45 Figure 2-12. Alternative C - Fire Management .......................................................................................... 2-47 Figure 2-13. Alternative C - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness North of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-55 Figure 2-14. Alternative C - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness South of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-57 Figure 2-15. Alternative C - Chickaloon Flats Airplane Access ................................................................ 2-59 Figure 2-16. Alternative D - Management Categories ............................................................................... 2-63 Figure 2-17. Alternative D - Fire Management .......................................................................................... 2-65 Figure 2-18. Alternative D - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness North of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-71 Figure 2-19. Alternative D - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness South of the Sterling Highway ........................................................................................................... 2-73 Figure 2-20. Alternative D - Chickaloon Flats Airplane Access ............................................................... 2-75 Figure 2-21. Alternative E - Preferred Management Categories ............................................................. 2-81 Table of Contents xvi Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan Figure 2-22. Alternative E - Preferred Fire Management ....................................................................... 2-83 Figure 2-23. Alternative E - Preferred Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness North of the Sterling Highway .......................................................................... 2-89 Figure 2-24. Alternative E - Airplane Access to Lakes in Designated Wilderness South of the Sterling Highway .......................................................................................................... 2-91 Figure 2-25. Alternative E - Preferred Chickaloon Flats Airplane Access ............................................ 2-93 Figure 3-1. Existing Land Status ................................................................................................................ 3-5 Figure 3-2. Location of Oil and Gas Units and Related Features .......................................................... 3-11 Figure 3-3. Attenuation of noise (dB) generated by motor vehicle traffic on Sterling Highway in different cover types ........................................................................................... 3-26 Figure 3-4. Major Landcover ..................................................................................................................... 3-31 Figure 3-5. Aquatic Habitat Classes.......................................................................................................... 3-41 Figure 3-6. Spruce Bark Beetle Infestation ............................................................................................. 3-43 Figure 3-7. Fire History (1709-2007) ......................................................................................................... 3-45 Figure 3-8. Historical return intervals between wildfires and spruce bark beetle outbreaks on the Kenai Peninsula ......................................................................................... 3-47 Figure 3-9. Aerial waterfowl counts and trend on three transects on the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge since 1964 (USFWS Division of Migratory Bird Management data) ......................................................................................................... 3-59 Figure 3-10. The number of swan nests inside (blue) and outside (red) the boundaries of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge since 1957 (Kenai National Wildlife Refuge unpublished data) ....................................................................................................... 3-59 Figure 3-11. Active and successful bald eagle nests on the Kenai Refuge since 1979............................ 3-62 Figure 3-12. Avian species richness by vegetation type on the Kenai Refuge........................................ 3-63 Figure 3-13. Black bear harvest on the Kenai Peninsula since 1973 (ADF&G preliminary data) ..................................................................................................................... 3-65 Figure 3-14. Locations of Brown Bears Have Been Killed in Defense of Life or Property (1990-1999) ............................................................................................................... 3-67 Figure 3-15. Mortality of brown bears due to hunting and defense-of-life-or-property on the Kenai Peninsula since 1973 (ADF&G data) .............................................................. 3-69 Figure 3-16. Minimum wolf population estimate and reported harvest on the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge since 1972 ...................................................................................... 3-70 Figure 3-17. Wolverine Harvest on the Kenai Peninsula by Drainage (1984-2001) ............................... 3-73 Figure 3-18. Snowshoe hare pellet counts on five monitoring grids since 1983 ...................................... 3-79 Figure 3-19. Trumpeter Swan Nesting Locations (1957-2007) ................................................................. 3-95 Figure 3-20. Special Designated Areas ......................................................................................................3-109 Figure 3-21. Kenai Peninsula Borough Salary Percentages by Employment Type, 2003 ...................3-118 Figure 3-22. Kenai Peninsula Borough Average Monthly Incomes, by Industry (2003) ......................3-119 Figure 3-23. Points of Access ......................................................................................................................3-123 Figure 3-24. Snowmachine Access ..............................................................................................................3-131 Figure 3-25. Mean number of hourly snowmachine detections at five locations on the southern Kenai Peninsula (February 11, 2005–March 7, 2005) .........................................3-133 Figure 3-26. Boat angling counts on the upper Kenai River (summer season) .....................................3-143 Figure 3-27. Moose Harvest on Game Management Units within Kenai Refuge (1984– 2005) ........................................................................................................................................3-145 Figure 3-28. Black Bear Harvest on Game Management Units within Kenai Refuge (1985–2004) ..............................................................................................................................3-145 Figure 3-29. Brown Bear Harvest on Game Management Units within Kenai Refuge (1985–2005) ..............................................................................................................................3-146 Figure 3-30. Dall Sheep Harvest on Game Management Units within Kenai Refuge (1985–2005) ..............................................................................................................................3-146 Figure 3-31. Wolf Harvest on Game Management Units within Kenai Refuge (1985– 2005) ........................................................................................................................................3-147 Table of Contents Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Final Revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan xvii Figure 3-32. Average trapping harvest on Kenai Refuge ........................................................................ 3-148 Figure 3-33. Wilderness Value Inventory Units ....................................................................................... 3-161 Figure 3-34. Rivers Containing Outstandingly Remarkable Values ...................................................... 3-175 Figures ~ Volume 2 Figure E-1. Easements and Indentifed RS-2477s ......................................................................................E-3 |
| Tag | Library-Source-CCPs |
| Date created | 2012-10-24 |
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