Draft Management Plan and Environmental Assessment Kenai National Wildlife Refuge

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United States Department of the Interior
FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE
1011 E. Tudor Road
Anchorage, Alaska 99503-6199
Dear Reader,
Enclosed is the DRAFT Management Plan and Environmental Assessment for Kenai National
Wildlife Refuge’s Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area. The DRAFT Plan identifies three
alternatives for enhancing wildlife viewing, environmental education, interpretation,
photography, and other non-conflicting wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities throughout
the 44,000-acre Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area. It also presents our evaluation of the
environmental consequences associated with implementing each of the alternatives. The final
version of this plan will guide future management of the Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area.
This DRAFT Plan has been sent to you because public involvement in the planning process is
essential for development of an effective plan. Please review and provide comments on the
plan’s contents by November 17, 2006. Comments should be specific, addressing merits of the
alternatives and adequacy of the environmental analysis. We will consider your comments as we
prepare the FINAL Plan.
All public comments received, including respondent names and addresses, will be included in the
planning record, which will be available for public review. If you, as an individual, wish us to
withhold your name or address, state this prominently at the beginning of your comments. We
will honor your request to the extent allowed by law. All comments from organizations and
businesses, and from individuals identifying themselves as representatives or officials of
organizations or businesses, will be available for public inspection. Anonymous comments will
not be considered. Comments should be mailed, e-mailed, or provided orally by November 17,
2006, to:
Rob Campellone, Planning Team Leader
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
1011 East Tudor Road – MS 231
Anchorage, AK 99503-6199
907/786-3982
fw7_kenai_planning@fws.gov
Requests for further information should be directed to:
Robin West, Refuge Manager
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
2139 Ski Hill Road, P.O. Box 2139
Soldotna, AK 99669-2139
907/262-7021
robin_west@fws.gov
The DRAFT Plan is available on CD-ROM from Rob Campellone, or on the Internet at
http://alaska.fws.gov/nwr/planning/kenpol.htm under Step-down Management Plans.
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Kenai
National Wildlife Refuge
Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area
Draft Management Plan
and
Environmental Assessment
October 2006
Prepared by
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
2139 Ski Hill Road Region 7
P.O. Box 2139 1011 East Tudor Road
Soldotna, Alaska 99669-2139 Anchorage, Alaska 99503-6199
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction
Introduction.................................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Proposed Action.................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Purpose and Need ................................................................................................................. 1
1.3 Decisions That Need To Be Made ........................................................................................ 2
1.4 Background.......................................................................................................................... 2
1.5 Coordination With The State Of Alaska............................................................................... 4
Chapter 2: Management Direction
Introduction.................................................................................................................................... 6
2.1 Alternatives ........................................................................................................................... 6
2.1.1 Alternative A (No Action Alternative) .......................................................................... 6
2.1.2 Alternative B (Preferred Alternative) .......................................................................... 12
2.1.3 Alternative C................................................................................................................ 20
2.2 Summary Comparison of the Alternatives.......................................................................... 22
Chapter 3: Affected Environment
Introduction.................................................................................................................................. 27
3.1 Physical Environment ......................................................................................................... 27
3.1.1 Landforms .................................................................................................................... 27
3.1.2 Air Quality ................................................................................................................... 27
3.1.3 Geology And Soils....................................................................................................... 27
3.1.4 Water Resources .......................................................................................................... 28
3.2 Biological Environment ...................................................................................................... 29
3.2.1 Vegetation .................................................................................................................... 29
3.2.2 Wildlife ........................................................................................................................ 37
3.3 Human Environment........................................................................................................... 47
3.3.1 Brief History of the Area ............................................................................................. 47
3.3.2 Local Population .......................................................................................................... 48
3.3.3 Summary of Current Use ............................................................................................. 48
3.3.4 Public Use Access........................................................................................................ 48
3.3.5 Public Uses and Related Facilities............................................................................... 51
3.3.6 Significant Concerns.................................................................................................... 63
Chapter 4: Environmental Consequences
Introduction.................................................................................................................................. 64
4.1 Definition of Terms............................................................................................................. 64
4.2 Key Indicators and Assumptions ........................................................................................ 65
4.3 Alternative A (No Action Alternative) ............................................................................... 66
4.3.1 Physical Environment .................................................................................................. 66
4.3.2 Biological Environment ............................................................................................... 74
4.3.3 Human Environment.................................................................................................... 84
4.3.4 Cumulative Impacts ..................................................................................................... 93
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4.4 Alternative B (Preferred Alternative) ................................................................................. 95
4.4.1 Physical Environment .................................................................................................. 95
4.4.2 Biological Environment ............................................................................................. 106
4.4.3 Human Environment.................................................................................................. 119
4.4.4 Cumulative Impacts ................................................................................................... 130
4.5 Alternative C..................................................................................................................... 132
4.5.1 Biological Environment ............................................................................................. 132
4.5.2 Human Environment.................................................................................................. 133
4.5.3 Cumulative Impacts ................................................................................................... 135
4.6 Relationship Between Short-Term Uses and Long-Term Productivity............................ 135
4.7 Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitment of Resources................................................. 136
4.8 Summary of Environmental Consequences By Alternative ............................................. 137
Chapter 5: Implementation ........................................................................................................ 139
Bibliography
Appendix A: List of Preparers
List of Tables
Table 2.1 Summary Comparison of the Alternatives................................................................... 22
Table 3.1 Lakes........................................................................................................................... 28
Table 3.2 Streams and Rivers ...................................................................................................... 29
Table 3.3 Habitat Modifications .................................................................................................. 34
Table 3.4 Forest Age Class .......................................................................................................... 37
Table 3.5 Trails ............................................................................................................................ 50
Table 3.6 Accessible Lakes.......................................................................................................... 51
Table 3.7 Public Use Facilities .................................................................................................... 53
Table 3.8 Campgrounds............................................................................................................... 54
Table 3.9 Bulletin Boards, Interpretive Panels, & Kiosks........................................................... 55
Table 3.10 Sport Fish By Location .............................................................................................. 57
Table 3.11 Parking Areas............................................................................................................. 60
Table 3.12 Sanitary Facilities ...................................................................................................... 61
Table 3.13 Scenic Viewing Locations ......................................................................................... 62
Table 3.14 Wildlife Viewing Locations....................................................................................... 63
Table 4.1 Alternative A: Habitat Loss ......................................................................................... 81
Table 4.2 Alternative B: Habitat Loss ....................................................................................... 118
Table 4.3 Summary of Environmental Consequences By Alternative ...................................... 137
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List of Figures
Figure 1.1 Administrative Boundaries........................................................................................... 3
Figure 2.1 Alternative A: Administrative Boundaries................................................................... 7
Figure 2.2 Alternative A: Firearm Restrictions ............................................................................. 8
Figure 2.3 Alternative A: Recreation Facilities ........................................................................... 10
Figure 2.4 Alternative B & C: Administrative Boundaries ......................................................... 13
Figure 2.5 Alternative B: Firearm Restrictions............................................................................ 14
Figure 2.6 Alternative B & C: Recreation Facilities.................................................................... 16
Figure 2.7 Alternative C: Firearm Restrictions............................................................................ 21
Figure 3.1 Vegetation Communities ............................................................................................ 30
Figure 3.2 Vegetation Classification............................................................................................ 32
Figure 3.3 Habitat Disturbance .................................................................................................... 33
Figure 3.4 Forest Age Class......................................................................................................... 35
Figure 3.5 Moose Composition.................................................................................................... 40
Figure 3.6 Existing Recreation Facilities..................................................................................... 52
Figure 3.7 Existing Firearm Restrictions ..................................................................................... 58
Figure 3.8 Moose Population, Permits, and Harvests.................................................................. 59
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Chapter 1: Introduction
Introduction
This chapter identifies the action the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will take through this
planning document, and the purpose and need for taking the action. It describes decisions the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regional Director has to make in light of information provided in
the document, provides background information on events that have led the Service to undertake
this planning effort, and provides a rationale for coordinating planning efforts with the State of
Alaska.
1.1 Proposed Action
The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is proposing to update, consolidate, and modify as
necessary management direction provided in the Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area Species
Management Plan (1986) and the Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area Public Use Facilities Plan
(1988). The revised Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area Management Plan will identify strategies
for providing and enhancing wildlife viewing, interpretation, photography, and where
appropriate, other non-conflicting wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities throughout the
Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area (or Skilak WRA).
1.2 Purpose and Need
The purposes of the revised step-down management plan are:
1. To identify and describe where wildlife viewing, interpretation, and photography
opportunities may be provided or enhanced within the Skilak WRA;
2. To identify where development of compatible facilities and programs to facilitate
wildlife viewing, interpretation, and photography opportunities would occur during
the life of the plan;
3. To consider and facilitate the development of other wildlife-dependent recreation
opportunities that do not conflict with #1 & #2 above.
Most of the actions identified in the 1988 Skilak WRA Public Use Facilities Plan have been
implemented. However, for a variety of reasons, some of the projects identified in the plan have
not been implemented and the environmental assessment for those projects is over 18 years old.
The Refuge needs to take a new look to see which projects from the existing plan should be
pursued and what additional opportunities exist to contribute to the Kenai Refuge
Comprehensive Conservation Plan management direction to provide enhanced opportunities for
wildlife viewing, interpretation, and photography. It also needs to update the environmental
assessment for those projects, and conduct an assessment of impacts associated with new
projects.
The management strategies described in the revised step-down management plan will meet the
following need: Identification of wildlife viewing, interpretation, photography, and other non-
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conflicting wildlife-dependent opportunities, facilities, and programs in the Skilak WRA.
Identification of appropriate and compatible public use opportunities, facilities, and programs
will ensure that quality wildlife-dependent recreation opportunities are provided for the public’s
use and enjoyment as directed by the Refuge’s Comprehensive Conservation Plan.
1.3 Decisions That Need To Be Made
The Regional Director will decide what, if any, actions identified in this Environmental
Assessment (EA) to undertake in the Skilak WRA over the next 5 years. The Regional Director
will also determine whether this EA is adequate to support a Finding of No Significant Impact
(FONSI) decision, or whether an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) will need to be
prepared.
1.4 Background
The Refuge Administration Act, as amended, establishes wildlife-dependent recreational uses
(hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, photography, environmental education, and
interpretation) as priority general public uses of the Refuge System, and that if found compatible
with refuge purposes, should receive enhanced and priority consideration in refuge planning and
management over other general public uses.
The 1.98 million acre Kenai National Wildlife Refuge (Kenai NWR) is unique among Alaskan
refuges in that it includes wildlife-oriented recreation, interpretation, and environmental
education among the major purposes for which the refuge was established as identified in
Section 303(4) of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) of 1980.
Section 304(g) of ANILCA directs the Secretary of the Interior “to prepare, and from time to
time, revise, a comprehensive conservation plan…for each refuge (in Alaska)…” In 1984, Kenai
Refuge’s Comprehensive Conservation Plan was developed. The planning process involved
several years of data collection and analysis. The general public and various federal, state, and
local agencies participated in the process, helping to identify issues and provide comments on
Service proposals. The Record of Decision to begin implementation of the plan was signed by
the Regional Director in 1985.
The Comprehensive Conservation Plan directed the Service to establish a special area that would
be managed to increase opportunities for wildlife viewing, interpretation and photography:
“The entire refuge would remain open to hunting and trapping, except for areas
where public safety is a concern (i.e., campgrounds, the headquarters/visitor
center in Soldotna, etc) and in the Skilak Loop Special Management Area, where
special restrictions on hunting and trapping apply. This area…would be managed
to provide enhanced opportunities for wildlife viewing.” (Kenai NWR
Comprehensive Conservation Plan)
The Comprehensive Conservation Plan also directed the Service to improve public use facilities in
the Skilak Loop Special Management Area – an area approximately 44,000-acres in size, or 2.2%
of the Refuge (Figure 1.1). These facilities included campgrounds, trails, boat launches, and
interpretive signs.
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In December, 1986, the Service developed a species management plan for the Skilak Loop Special
Management Area. The plan identified the following three specific goals:
1. To provide the public with opportunities to view a diversity of wildlife/wildlands;
2. To interpret the diversity of wildlife/wildlands, and;
3. To allow for a limited public harvest of certain species when such harvest is
necessary to achieve the first and second goal.
To attain the wildlife viewing objectives identified in the Comprehensive Conservation Plan,
hunting and trapping opportunities were limited so wildlife would become more abundant, less
wary, and easily viewed. The Service worked closely with the Alaska Department of Fish and
Game (ADF&G) to develop regulatory proposals that limited trapping, allowed taking of small
game by archery, and provided a moose hunt by special permit. In 1987, the Board of Game
approved these regulations that provided a framework for achieving the wildlife population
objectives for enhanced wildlife viewing opportunities.
To further support development of wildlife viewing, environmental education, and interpretation
opportunities in the Skilak Loop Special Management Area, the Service adopted a contractor’s
recommendation (Land Design North, Inc) to name it the Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area, and in
1988, developed a Public Use Facilities Step-Down Management Plan for the area. The plan
proposed development of public use facilities to supplement existing facilities including: an
additional day use area, 4 additional campgrounds, 20 additional interpretive signs, 12 additional
pullouts, 7 additional trails, and a new visitor contact facility. The Service has been
implementing the plan over the past 18 years by developing public use facilities in the area as
funding has permitted. Management direction identified in that plan that has yet to be
implemented is identified in Alternative A (the No Action Alternative) of this document.
In March 2005, the Board of Game adopted regulations providing for the use of firearms to hunt
small game and fur animals in the Skilak WRA. In September 2005, the Board delayed
implementation of the authorization until July 2007, supporting efforts of the FWS to prepare a
Skilak WRA Management Plan. This management plan fulfills management direction provided
in the Refuge’s Comprehensive Conservation Plan by consolidating, updating, and modifying,
where necessary, management direction provided in previous step-down management plans.
1.5 Coordination With The State Of Alaska
In 1982, the Service and ADF&G signed a Master Memorandum of Understanding that defines
the cooperative management roles of each agency and identifies the framework for cooperation
between the two agencies. ADF&G has the primary responsibility for managing fish and
resident wildlife populations in the state. On Refuge lands, ADF&G manages fish and resident
wildlife populations in their natural species diversity. The Service conserves fish, wildlife, and
their habitats, and regulates human use on Refuge lands. The Service and ADF&G share a
concern for all fish and wildlife resources and their habitats, and both agencies are engaged in
extensive fish and wildlife conservation, management, and protection programs.
The State of Alaska establishes fishing, hunting, and trapping regulations throughout the state at
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the direction of the Board of Fisheries and Board of Game. These regulations apply to federal
public lands unless superseded by federal regulations. The state is divided up into 26 game
management units (GMU); most of these are further divided into game management subunits
(GMS). Management objectives are developed for populations within the GMUs. All of Kenai
Refuge lands lie within GMU 7, 15A, 15B, or 15C. The Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area falls
within GMU 15A.
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Chapter 2: Management Direction
Introduction
This chapter describes three alternatives for managing the Skilak WRA including the Service’s
preferred alternative (Alternative B). The alternatives comply with the National Environmental
Policy Act (NEPA), the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA), and other
pertinent laws. They were designed to respond to the issues identified during scoping and present
an option for addressing each issue. In addition to responding to public comments and interests,
each of the alternatives must be responsive to the mission and goals of the Service and of the
National Wildlife Refuge System. The purposes of the Refuge and this planning document’s
purpose and need, as identified in Chapter 1, also direct actions that could be considered.
2.1 Alternatives
2.1.1 Alternative A (No Action Alternative)
This is the No Action Alternative as required by NEPA. It describes what would happen with a
continuation of current management direction and serves as a baseline against which to compare
other alternatives.
Management Direction By Issue
Issue 1: How can the Service enhance wildlife viewing and photography opportunities within the
Skilak WRA?
Administrative Boundaries
Existing administrative boundaries would be maintained (Figure 2.1):
“The Skilak WRA consists of all lands bounded by a line beginning at the easternmost
junction of the Sterling Highway and the Skilak Loop Road (MP 58), then due south to
the south bank of the Kenai River to its confluence with Skilak Lake, then westerly
along the north shore of Skilak Lake to Lower Skilak Lake Campground, then
northerly along the Lower Skilak Lake Campground road and the Skilak Loop Road to
its westernmost junction with the Sterling Highway (MP 75.1), then easterly along the
Sterling Highway to the point of beginning.”
Human Health and Safety (Firearm Use)
Existing human health and safety regulations would be implemented (Figure 2.2):
“Discharging firearms within ¼ mile of designated public campgrounds, trailheads,
waysides, buildings, or the Sterling Highway from the east refuge boundary to the east
junction of the Skilak Loop Road would not be allowed.”
Trails
Construct five (5) trails totaling approximately 9.0 miles in length: 1) Sterling Highway
Trailhead Parking Area to Chatelain Lake (1.8 miles), 2) Kelly Lake Loop Trail (1.8 miles), 3)
Lower Skilak Lake Campground to Blizzard Lake (1.9 miles), 4) Blizzard Lake to Skilak Loop
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Road Trailhead Parking Area (0.5 mile), and 5) Skilak Loop Road Trailhead Parking Area to
Marsh Lake (2.9 miles) (Figure 2.3).
Vegetation Management
Habitat would be managed to provide for 130+ resident moose and 170+ wintering moose.
Utilization standards for key browse species would be used to determine when the carrying
capacity is being approached and harvest is necessary to avoid habitat damage. Browse surveys
would be completed west of Engineer Lake each year in April. Moose density objectives may be
modified by the degree of forage utilization indicated by browse surveys.
Wildlife Management
Moose:
To provide opportunities to view moose populations in relatively natural settings throughout the
year; to interpret various components of the moose population, their behavior, and habitat; and to
provide opportunities for the public to harvest moose when removal is desirable to achieve
public use and resource protection goals, the following wildlife management strategies would be
implemented:
Resident moose population densities of 130 animals (1.8 – 2.0 animals per
square mile of habitat) would be managed for. Population density would be
determined utilizing the standard density census as defined by ADF&G and
FWS and would be conducted every second year at a minimum assuming
adequate snow cover. Sex ratios would be allowed to rise to a minimum of 40
bulls/100 cows as measured with the standard composition survey. This survey
would be conducted before December 1 each year. To avoid habitat damage,
harvest of cow moose by firearm would be allowed by permit only when
populations exceed density objectives. Harvest of spike-fork bulls by firearm
would be allowed by permit only when ratio objectives are exceeded.
Small Game:
To provide opportunities to view small game populations in relatively natural settings; to
interpret and provide prey for predators particularly raptors such as bald eagles, goshawks, and
great-horned owls, and lynx and coyotes; and to provide opportunities for the public to harvest
these species the following wildlife management strategy would be implemented:
During the period October 1 to March 1, each year, harvest of small game by
bow and arrow would be allowed.
Fur Animals and Bears:
Harvest not allowed.
Wayside Pullouts
Wayside pullouts would be constructed at the following three (3) locations (Figure 2.3): 1)
Skilak Loop Road at Jean Creek Culvert, 2) Skilak Loop Road at Pack Lake, and 3) Sterling
Highway at Lower Jean Lake.
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Issue 2. How can the Service enhance environmental education and interpretation opportunities
within the Skilak WRA?
Bulletin Boards & Kiosks
Bulletin boards and trail registers would be provided at the following five (5) locations
(Figure 2.3): 1) Bottenintnin Lake Day Use Area, 2) Chatelain Lake Trailhead Parking Area,
3) Crushed Area / Marsh Lake Trailhead Parking Area, 4) Nature Center Parking Area, and
(5) Visitor Contact Station (West Entrance).
Interpretive Panels
Interpretive panels would be provided at the following six (6) locations (Figure 2.3): 1) Crushed
Area / Marsh Lake Trailhead Parking Area 2) East Entrance Parking Area, 3) Jean Creek Culvert
Wayside Pullout, 4) Lower Jean Lake Wayside Pullout, 5) Pack Lake Wayside Pullout, and
6) Bottenintnin Lake Day Use Area.
Nature Center
A 2,000-5,000 square foot nature center would be constructed near the site of the existing Visitor
Contact Station (East Entrance) (Figure 2.3).
Issue 3. How can the Service provide recreation support facilities within the Skilak WRA?
Campgrounds
The Engineer Lake campground would be redesigned. The Watson Lake Campground would be
converted to a day use area.
Parking Areas
Parking areas would be rehabilitated/improved and/or constructed at the following six (6)
locations (Figure 2.3): 1) Egumen Lake, 2) Engineer Lake, 3) Chatelain Lake Trailhead,
4) Nature Center (East Entrance), 5) Crushed Area / Marsh Lake Trailhead, 6) Visitor Contact
Station (West Entrance).
Roads
The Skilak Loop Road would be paved using Federal Highway funds though no realignment
would be conducted. All campground and access area roads, trailhead parking, and waysides
would be paved. The East and West Entrances of the Skilak Loop Road would be redesigned to
conform to Federal and State Highway Standards.
Sanitary Facilities
Portable toilets would be provided in “over flow” camping areas when opened for use during
peak visitation periods.
Visitor Contact Station
A Visitor Contact Station would be constructed at the West Entrance of the Skilak Loop Road
(Figure 2.3).
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2.1.2 Alternative B (Preferred Alternative)
The management direction proposed in the Service’s Preferred Alternative would address issues
identified during public scoping in the following manner:
Issue 1: How can the Service enhance wildlife viewing and photography opportunities within the
Skilak WRA?
Administrative Boundaries
Same as Alternative A plus all lands between the Upper Kenai River and the Sterling Highway
from the Refuge’s easternmost boundary to the Skilak Loop Road; and all lands beginning 100
yards from the north shore of Skilak Lake and the Lower Kenai River from the Lower Skilak
Campground and Skilak Loop Road west along the Sterling Highway to the westernmost Refuge
boundary would be included in the Skilak WRA (Figure 2.4).
Human Health and Safety (Firearm Use)
Same as Alternative A (Figure 2.5).
Trails
Construct the following trail segments to develop a total of six (6) trails totaling approximately
35.5 miles in length (Figure 2.6):
1) Bottenintnin Lake Group Day Use Area Loop Trail (4.0 miles)
2) Hideout Mountain Scenic Trail (2.5 miles)
• Connect Burney’s Trail to Hideout Mountain Trail via 1.5-mile connector trail
3) Kenai River Extension Trail
• Construct 1-mile trail initiating from the end of the existing Kenai River Trail
southwest towards, but not to, Hidden Creek/Skilak Lake.
4) Skilak Lake Long Distance Trail (13.5-miles)
• Connect existing Hidden Creek Trail to existing Skilak Lookout Trail (2.2 miles)
• Connect existing Skilak Lookout Trail to existing Vista Trail (1.6 miles)
• Construct a Lower Ohmer Lake Campground Family Loop Trail (1.4 miles)
• Connect Upper Skilak Lake Campground to Lower Ohmer Lake Campground
Family Loop Trail (0.7 miles)
• Connect Upper Skilak Lake Campground to Blizzard Lake (3.9 miles)
• Construct a Blizzard Lake Family Loop Trail (1.3 miles)
• Connect Blizzard Lake Family Loop Trail to the Moose Habitat Enhancement
Loop Trailhead on the Skilak Loop Road (0.5 mile)
• Connect Blizzard Lake Family Loop Trail to the Lower Skilak Lake Campground
(1.9 miles)
5) Seven Lakes Long Distance Loop Trail (10.0 miles)
• Construct a Moose Habitat Enhancement Loop Trail off the Skilak Loop Road
(1.2 miles)
• Connect the Moose Habitat Enhancement Loop Trail to Marsh Lake (1.0 mile)
• Connect Marsh Lake to Egumen/Peterson/Kelly Lakes (2.0 miles)
• Connect Egumen/Peterson/Kelly Lakes trail to existing Seven Lakes Trail
(2.5 miles)
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• Connect Seven Lakes Trail to the Pack Lake Environmental Education Complex
(1.0 mile)
• Connect the Pack Lake Environmental Education Complex to the Moose Habitat
Enhancement Loop Trailhead (1.5 miles)
6) Mox/Chatelain Lake Trail (4.5 miles)
• Sterling Highway Trailhead Parking Area to Mox Lake (1.0 mile)
• Connect Mox Lake to Chatelain Lake (2.0 miles)
• Connect Mox Lake to existing Seven Lake Trail (1.5 miles)
Vegetation Management
Prescribed and wildland fire use, and mechanical treatment would be used to enhance wildlife
viewing, environmental education/interpretation and photography opportunities at the following
two (2) locations (Figure 2.6): 1) Moose Habitat Enhancement Loop Trail northwest of the Pack
Lake Environmental Education Complex, and 2) Vegetation Management Interpretive Drive.
Treatment would be conducted on approximately 50 – 100 acres/year when conditions permit.
Viewing Facilities
Viewing platforms with spotting scopes would be constructed at the following five (5) locations
(Figure 2.6): 1) Engineer Lake (west shore), 2) Kelly Lake (north shore), 3) Marsh Lake (east
shore), 4) Peterson Lake (south shore), and 5) Upper Ohmer Lake (east shore).
Photo blinds would be constructed at the following two (2) locations (Figure 2.6): 1) Egumen
Lake (north shore), and 2) Rock Lake (east shore).
A viewing tower with spotting scope(s) would be constructed along the Vegetation Management
Interpretive Drive.
Additional spotting scopes would be provided at the following two (2) locations: 1) Hidden
Creek Wayside Pullout, and 2) Skilak Lake / Redoubt Mountain Wayside Pullout.
In addition, refuge biologists, public use specialists, and maintenance personnel would consider
and evaluate the feasibility of developing a Track Trap facility at an appropriate location. The
facility would capture animal track impressions for interpretation and education purposes.
Wildlife Management
Moose:
To provide opportunities to view moose populations in relatively natural settings throughout the
year; to interpret various components of the moose population, their behavior, and habitat; and to
provide opportunities for the public to harvest moose when removal is desirable to achieve
public use and resource protection goals the following wildlife management strategies would be
implemented:
Same as Alternative A except Kenai NWR and ADF&G will jointly re-evaluate moose
population objectives to provide for healthy moose populations and enhance viewing
opportunities based on currently ongoing studies and/or other scientific information provided in
the future.
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Small Game:
Same as Alternative A.
Fur Animals and Bears:
Same as Alternative A.
Wayside Pullouts
An undeveloped wayside pullout located at MP 12.6 along the Skilak Loop Road (referred to
throughout this plan as the Skilak Lake / Redoubt Mountain Wayside) will be enhanced
(Figure 2.6).
Issue 2. How can the Service enhance environmental education and interpretation opportunities
within the Skilak WRA?
Bulletin Boards & Kiosks
Bulletin boards or kiosks would be provided at the following six (6) locations (Figure 2.6):
1) Bottenintnin Lake Group Day Use Parking Area, 2) Burney’s Trailhead Parking Area, 3) East
Entrance Parking Area, 4) Moose Habitat Enhancement Loop Trailhead Parking Area,
5) Mox/Chatelain Trailhead Parking Area, and 6) Visitor Contact Station Parking Area (West
Entrance).
Existing bulletin boards would be upgraded to kiosks at the following five (5) locations:
1) Hidden Creek Trailhead, 2) Hideout Mountain Trailhead, 3) Kenai River Trailhead (West),
4) Skilak Lookout Trailhead, and 5) Vista Trailhead.
Environmental Education Complex
An Environmental Education Complex consisting of two buildings – a 2,000 square foot Nature
Center, and a 10,000 square foot Boreal Forest Lands Research and Management Training
Facility – would be constructed west of Pack Lake off of the Skilak Loop Road at MP 8.8
(Figure 2.6).
Environmental Education “Ranger” Programs
Campfire programs and Discovery Hikes offered by Refuge personnel would be increased by
20% and offered year-round, including the shoulder seasons (September – May), and a “Roving
Ranger” program would be initiated.
Interpretive Panels
Interpretive panels would be provided at the following ten (10) locations (Figure 2.6):
1) Engineer Lake Day Use Area Platform (west shore), 2) Kelly Lake Viewing Platform (north
shore), 3) Lower Jean Lake Day Use Area (north shore), 4) Lower Ohmer Lake Family Loop
Trailhead, 5) Marsh Lake Viewing Platform (east shore), 6) Nature Center Disability-Accessible
Interpretive Trail, 7) Peterson Lake Viewing Platform (south shore), 8) Skilak Lake/Redoubt
Mountain Wayside, 9) Upper Ohmer Lake Viewing Platform, and 10) Vegetation Management
Interpretive Loop Drive.
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Interpretive Drives
A self-guided Vegetation Management Interpretive Loop Drive would be constructed along the
Skilak Loop Road at MP 2.0 (Figure 2.6). Interpretive materials would be developed for this road
and the Skilak Loop Wildlife Drive (see Outreach Materials and Media below).
Interpretive Trail
A disability-accessible Interpretive Trail (1.0 mile) would be constructed at the Pack Lake
Environmental Education Complex.
Outreach Materials and Media for Visitor Orientation
A variety of outreach materials (e.g., brochures, pamphlets, etc) and media formats (e.g., audio
tapes, CD, DVD, MP3) will be developed to educate visitors about the Skilak WRA. Educational
topics may include: 1) Purpose and management of the Skilak WRA, 2) Recreation opportunities
and related facilities, 3) Interpretive / educational opportunities and related facilities, 4) Common
wildlife species and opportunities to view them identified by milepost, 5) Recorded calls of
common avian species, and 6) Human history of the area.
Issue 3. How can the Service provide recreation support facilities within the Skilak WRA?
Administrative Facility
The existing Administrative Facility located off the Skilak Loop Road at MP 5.3 will be
maintained and enhanced as needed (Figure 2.6). The following amenities will be considered:
1) 500-square foot seasonal office space, 2) 350-square foot shop, and 3) 1,000-square foot
housing facility for Visitor Services staff.
Boat Launches
The existing boat launches at Bottenintnin Lake Group Day Use Area and Engineer Lake Day
Use Area will be improved. Through a cooperative effort with State of Alaska Department of
Transportation, construct a boat launch at the Lower Jean Lake Day Use Area (north shore)
(Figure 2.6).
Campgrounds
The following campground-related work would be implemented (Figure 2.6): 1) Relocate the
Engineer Lake Campground to the bluff above the lake to include designation of six (6) vehicle
camping sites, 2) Rehabilitate the Kelly Lake Campground to include designation of eight (8)
vehicle camping sites, and 3) Rehabilitate the Peterson Lake Campground to include designation
of four (4) vehicle camping sites.
To address public safety concerns associated with entry and exit from/to the Sterling Highway at
Lower Jean Lake the existing campground would be replaced, through a cooperative effort with
the State of Alaska Department of Transportation, with a day use area and related facilities
located on the lake’s north shore (see Day Use Areas below).
19
Hardened Campsites (“Walk-in” and “Backcountry” Campsites)
Two (2) hardened “walk-in” campsites would be provided at Kelly Lake Campground, and one
(1) hardened “walk-in” campsite would be provided at Peterson Lake campground (Figure 2.6).
To protect refuge resources, hardened “backcountry” campsites would be identified and
developed for voluntary use along the Skilak Lake Long Distance Trail and Seven Lakes Long
Distance Loop Trail. Campsites would be no closer than 0.5 mile apart (Figure 2.6).
Day Use Areas
The Bottenintnin Lake Group Day Use Area would be rehabilitated and the Engineer Lake
Campground would be converted to a day use area after the new campground is constructed on
the bluff above the lake (Figure 2.6).
To address public safety concerns associated with entry and exit from/to the Sterling Highway at
Lower Jean Lake the existing campground would be replaced, through a cooperative effort with
the State of Alaska Department of Transportation, with a day use area and related facilities
located on the lake’s north shore (Figure 2.6).
Parking Areas
The existing Engineer Lake Campground parking area would be rehabilitated. The Refuge would
construct three (3) parking areas at the following locations (Figure 2.6): 1) Moose Habitat
Enhancement Loop Trailhead, 2) Pack Lake Environmental Education Complex, and 3)
Vegetation Management Interpretive Drive. Through a cooperative effort with State of Alaska
Department of Transportation, parking areas would be constructed at the following locations:
1) East Entrance (Skilak Loop/Sterling Highway Intersection), 2) Lower Jean Lake Day Use
Area, 3) Mox/Chatelain Lakes Trailhead, and 4) West Entrance (Skilak/Sterling Intersection).
Roads
Same as Alt A plus obtain the Skilak Loop Road ROW through a cooperative effort with DOT;
increase year-round maintenance; ensure appropriate wildlife crossings and culvert replacement;
and rename the road as the "Skilak Loop Wildlife Drive".
Sanitary Facilities
Sanitary facilities would be provided at the following five (5) locations (Figure 2.6):
1) Bottenintnin Lake Group Day Use Area (1 unit), 2) Lower Jean Lake Day Use Area (1 unit),
3) Mox/Chatelain Lakes Trailhead (1 unit), 4) Pack Lake Environmental Education Complex
(1 unit), and 5) Visitor Contact Station (West Entrance). The frequency of servicing sanitary
facilities will be increased during the highest visitor use months, and will occur weekly during
the shoulder season (September – May).
Signs (Information, Direction, Location)
The following actions would be implemented: 1) Signs containing the “binocular” wildlife
viewing logo would be placed on the Sterling Highway in advance of the East and West
Entrances, 2) “Welcome to the Skilak WRA” monuments would be constructed at the East and
West Entrances, 3) Information, direction, and location signs for all public use facilities would
be provided / enhanced along the Skilak Loop Wildlife Drive and Sterling Highway, and
4) Milepost markers would be provided along the Skilak Loop Wildlife Drive.
20
Visitor Contact Station
Same as Alternative A plus information would be provided year-round including periods when
the facility is not attended by staff.
2.1.3 Alternative C
The management direction proposed in Alternative C would address issues identified during
public scoping in the following manner:
Issue 1: How can the Service enhance wildlife viewing and photography opportunities within the
Skilak WRA?
Same as Alternative B except for the following provisions:
Human Health and Safety (Firearm Use)
Discharging firearms within ½ mile of designated public campgrounds, trailheads, waysides,
buildings, and parking areas; or within ¼ mile of the Skilak Loop Road or the Sterling Highway
from the Refuge’s easternmost boundary to the western intersection of the Sterling Highway and
Skilak Loop Road would not be allowed (Figure 2.7).
Wildlife Management
Small Game and Fur Animals:
Small game and fur animals may be taken from October 1 through March 1 by firearms.
Issue 2: How can the Service enhance environmental education and interpretation opportunities
within the Skilak WRA?
Same as Alternative B.
Issue 3: How can the Service provide recreation support facilities within the Skilak WRA?
Same as Alternative B.
0-7
22
2.2 Summary Comparison of the Alternatives
1Table 2.1 Summary Comparison of the Alternatives
Issue 1. How can the Service enhance wildlife viewing and photography opportunities within the Skilak WRA?
Alternative A:
(No Action Alternative)
Alternative B:
(Preferred Alternative)
Alternative C
Administrative
Boundaries
Encompasses 44,000-acres or 2.2% of
the Refuge.
Encompasses 52,750-acres or 2.7% of the
Refuge.
Same as Alternative B.
Human Health and
Safety (Firearm
Use)
Firearm use prohibited on 3,200 acres
near roads and other public use
facilities; firearm use allowed by permit
September 15 thru September 30 on
40,800-acres (93% of 44,000-acres).
Firearm use prohibited on 5,620-acres
near roads and other public use facilities;
firearm use allowed by permit September
15 thru September 30 on 47,120-acres
(89.3% of 52,750-acres).
Firearm use prohibited on
17,180-acres near roads and
other public use facilities;
firearm use allowed October 1
to March 1 on 35,570-acres
(67.4% of 52,750-acres).
Trails Construct five (5) trails totaling
approximately 9.0-miles in length.
Construct six (6) trails totaling
approximately 29.7-miles in length.
Same as Alternative B.
Vegetation
Management
Habitat managed to sustain specific
moose population numbers.
Habitat managed to enhance public use
opportunities at specific locations.
Same as Alternative B.
Viewing Facilities
(Blinds, Platforms,
Towers and other
Facilities)
No Direction Provided. Provide five (5) viewing platforms, two
(2) photo blinds, one (1) viewing tower,
and nine (9) spotting scopes. Consider
development of a Track Trap facility.
Same as Alternative B.
23
Alternative A:
(No Action Alternative)
Alternative B:
(Preferred Alternative)
Alternative C
Wildlife Management:
Moose Managed to provide for a variety of
public use opportunities. Firearm
harvest by permit only.
Same as Alternative A plus re-evaluate
moose population objectives as needed.
Same as Alternative B.
Small Game Managed to provide for a variety of
public use opportunities. Bow and arrow
harvest only.
Same as Alternative A. Firearm harvest allowed.
Fur Animals Harvest not allowed. Same as Alternative A. Firearm harvest allowed.
Waysides (Scenic
pull-outs for
vehicles)
Construct three (3) wayside pullouts. Rehabilitate one (1) existing undeveloped
wayside pullout.
Same as Alternative B.
Issue 2. How can the Service enhance environmental education and interpretation opportunities within the Skilak WRA?
Alternative A:
(No Action Alternative)
Alternative B:
(Preferred Alternative)
Alternative C
Bulletin Boards &
Kiosks
Provide bulletin boards and trail
registers at five (5) locations.
Provide bulletin boards at three of the five
locations identified under Alternative A
plus provide bulletin boards or kiosks at
three (3) additional locations. Upgrade
five (5) existing bulletin boards to kiosks.
Same as Alternative B.
24
Alternative A:
(No Action Alternative)
Alternative B:
(Preferred Alternative)
Alternative C
Environmental Education Complex:
Boreal Lands
Research & Land
Management
Training Facility
No Direction Provided. To fulfill refuge purposes, construct a
research and land management training
facility for public and private educational
purposes at Pack Lake.
Same as Alternative B.
Nature Center Construct a 2,000 – 5,000 square foot
facility near the site of the existing
Visitor Contact Station (East Entrance)
Construct a 2,000-square foot facility at
Pack Lake.
Same as Alternative B.
Environmental
Education
“Ranger”
Programs
No Direction Provided. Increase number of programs offered by
20%; provide programs year-round.
Same as Alternative B.
Interpretive Panels Provide interpretive panels at six (6)
locations.
Provide interpretive panels at two of the
six locations identified under Alternative
A plus provide interpretive panels at eight
(8) additional locations.
Same as Alternative B.
Interpretive Drive No Direction Provided. Use abandoned roadbed to facilitate
development of a self-guided interpretive
drive.
Same as Alternative B.
Interpretive Trails No Direction Provided. Construct one (1) disability-accessible
interpretive trail.
Same as Alternative B.
Outreach Materials
and Media for
Visitor Orientation
No Direction Provided. Develop and provide outreach materials in
a variety of media formats for visitor
orientation.
Same as Alternative B.
25
Issue 3. How can the Service provide recreation support facilities within the Skilak WRA?
Alternative A:
(No Action Alternative)
Alternative B:
(Preferred Alternative)
Alternative C
Administrative
Facility
No Direction Provided. Maintain and enhance the existing facility
as needed.
Same as Alternative B.
Boat Launches No Direction Provided. Improve two (2) existing boat launches,
plus through a cooperative effort with
DOT, enhance public safety by relocating
the Lower Jean Lake boat launch.
Same as Alternative B.
Campgrounds Relocate and expand one (1)
campground; convert one (1)
campground to a day use area.
Relocate and expand one (1) campground;
expand one (1) campground; rehabilitate
one (1) campground, and through a
cooperative effort with DOT replace the
Lower Jean Lake campground with a day
use area located on the lake’s north shore.
Same as Alternative B.
Hardened
Campsites
(“Backcountry” or
“Walk-in”)
No Direction Provided. Construct walk-in campsites at two (2)
locations, plus provide backcountry
campsites for voluntary use along two (2)
long distance trails.
Same as Alternative B.
Day Use Areas No Direction Provided. Rehabilitate and/or construct day use
areas at two (2) locations, plus through a
cooperative effort with DOT construct a
day use area at Lower Jean Lake.
Same as Alternative B.
Parking Areas Rehabilitate three (3) parking areas, and
construct three (3) parking areas.
Rehabilitate one (1) parking area,
construct three (3) parking areas, plus
through a cooperative effort with DOT
construct four (4) parking areas.
Same as Alternative B.
26
Alternative A:
(No Action Alternative)
Alternative B:
(Preferred Alternative)
Alternative C
Roads Pave all roads, parking, and wayside
pullouts using Federal Highway funds.
Redesign Skilak Loop-Sterling
Highway intersections to conform to
state and federal standards.
Same as Alternative A plus obtain the
Skilak Loop Road right-of-way through a
cooperative effort with DOT; increase
year-round maintenance, and rename the
road as the “Skilak Loop Wildlife Drive.”
Same as Alternative B.
Sanitary Facilities Portable toilets will be provided in
“over flow” camping areas when
opened for use during peak visitation.
Construct sanitary facilities at five (5)
locations, plus increase frequency of
maintenance and cleaning year round.
Same as Alternative B.
Signs (Information,
Direction, Location)
No Direction Provided. Design, construct, and improve signs
along all roads to promote/identify
facilities, and points of interests.
Same as Alternative B.
Visitor Contact
Station
Construct one (1) visitor contact
station at the west entrance.
Same as Alternative A. Same as Alternative A.
27
Chapter 3: Affected Environment
Introduction
This chapter describes the physical, biological, and social settings that could be affected by
management actions proposed in this plan.
3.1 Physical Environment
3.1.1 Landforms
The Kenai NWR is located in south-central Alaska on the Kenai Peninsula. Three major
landforms are present on the Refuge: the Kenai Lowlands, the Kenai Mountains, and the
Tustumena Benchlands. The Kenai Lowlands and Kenai Mountains are found within the
boundaries of the 44,000-acre Skilak WRA.
The west and central portions of the Skilak WRA lie within the Kenai Lowlands which fall
within the Cook Inlet Basin ecoregion. This landform consists of ground moraine and stagnant
ice terrain with low ridges, hills, muskeg, lakes, and ponds. Relief ranges from 50 to 250 feet.
The eastern portion of the Skilak WRA lies within the Kenai Mountains which fall within the
Chugach-St. Elias Mountains ecoregion. The Kenai Mountains rise to 3,000 feet in the Skilak
WRA and over 6,000 feet elsewhere on the refuge.
3.1.2 Air Quality
Kenai Refuge, including the Skilak WRA, is designated a Class II air quality area under the
Clean Air Act. Class II areas allow some incremental increase in pollution over base-line
concentrations. Air quality in the Skilak WRA is generally excellent; however, vehicles using
the Skilak Loop Road during dry periods stir up dust which deteriorates air quality. In addition,
exhaust from these vehicles degrade air quality along the road corridor, particularly during
periods of high public use.
3.1.3 Geology And Soils
Two geologic terranes are found within the Skilak WRA: Tertiary rock found within the Kenai
Lowlands (or western and central portions of the area) known as the Alaska Peninsular terrane,
and Mesozoic rock found in the Kenai Mountains (or eastern portion of the area) known as the
Chugach-Prince William terrane.
The Alaska Peninsular terrane is covered by glacial deposits consisting of siltstone, fine
sandstone, and shale. Lowland soils are mantled by glacial deposits that vary in texture and are
overlain by well-drained to poorly drained silt loams. Depression areas, such as muskeg, are
usually covered by peat soils produced by the slow decomposition of organic materials. Sloped
areas are vulnerable to erosion, especially if vegetation is removed. The Mesozoic rock of the
Chugach-Prince William terrane is mostly greywacke, a marine sandstone derived from igneous
rock, with lesser amounts of basalt, radiolarian chert, and limestone.
28
3.1.4 Water Resources
Lentic systems (i.e., lakes, ponds, and wetlands) and lotic systems (i.e., streams and rivers)
account for more then 4,630-acres or approximately 10% of the Skilak WRA. Aquatic and
riparian habitats associated with these systems contain unique plant communities and other
distinguishing features. Riparian habitats account for only 5% of Kenai Refuge but they account
for some of the most valuable habitat for wildlife. Approximately 199 species use riparian
habitats on the Refuge during some cycle of their lives, and 139 vertebrate species use them
specifically for breeding (USFWS 1985). The following provides a short assessment of lentic
and lotic systems in the Skilak WRA.
Lentic Systems
The Skilak WRA contains seventeen lakes totaling approximately 3,490-acres (8%) (Table 3.1).
Three lakes immediately adjacent to the Skilak WRA are also commonly used by wildlife:
Bottenintnin Lake, Skilak Lake, and Watson Lake. These lakes amount to 24,831-acres.
Lakes within the Skilak WRA remain frozen from November to May, and summer water
temperatures rarely exceeds 68 degrees F. Skilak Lake freezes for shorter periods of time due to
its size but does not get as warm as the smaller lakes in summer because much of its inflow is
glacial meltwater. Cold water temperatures and low light levels common in northern latitude
ecosystems severely limits productivity. High oxygen content, lack of pollution, and physical
diversity balances these limitations. The net results are conditions that favor the reproduction and
early growth of anadromous fishes.
2
Table 3.1. Lakes
Name Size (Acres) Name Size (Acres)
Blizzard Lake 57 Marsh Lake 110
Bottenintnin Lake 262 Mox Lake 45
Chatelain Lake 118 Pack Lake 33
Egumen Lake 82 Petersen Lake 92
Engineer Lake 225 Rock Lake 19
Hidden Lake 1,597 Skilak Lake 24,512
Hiker’s Lake 61 Unnamed Lake 21
Kelly Lake 146 Unnamed Lake 13
Lower Jean Lake 113 Upper Ohmer Lake 20
Lower Ohmer Lake 116 Watson Lake 58
29
Wetland habitats are defined by periodic saturation or coverage of the soil by water. Wetlands
account for only 3% of Kenai Refuge but they are valuable habitat for wildlife contributing to the
survival and reproductive success of 96 vertebrate species (USFWS 1985). Wetlands account for
1,140-acres (2.6%) in the Skilak WRA.
Lotic Systems
The Skilak WRA contains nine streams and/or rivers totaling approximately 19-miles in length
(Table 3.2). These streams, in addition to transporting water from lake to lake, provide access for
anadromous fish, and reproduction and rearing habitat for resident fish. The productivity of these
systems in subarctic regions is very fragile and dependent on high water quality, proper water
temperature, clean stream gravel, and nutrient cycling (driven by the annual return of
anadromous fish from the sea).
Wildlife species found in riparian habitats include brown bear, black bear, moose, caribou, river
otter, beaver, muskrat, wood frog, bald eagle, common snipe, red-necked phalarope, and a
variety of goldeneyes, grebes, gulls, loons, mergansers, sandpipers, swallows, yellowlegs, and
terns.
3
Table 3.2. Streams and Rivers
Name Length (Miles) Name Length (Miles)
Hidden Creek 2.7 Ohmer Creek 1.7
Hidden Lake Inlet 0.2 Unnamed 1 0.6
Jean Creek 3.1 Unnamed 2 0.4
Kenai River 7.3 Unnamed 3 1.8
Moose River, East Fork 1.7
3.2 Biological Environment
3.2.1 Vegetation
Community Types
Vegetative communities cover approximately 39,368-acres (89.4%) of the Skilak WRA. The
remaining 4,630-acres (10.6%) are water resources. Forested habitats dominate the landscape
accounting for approximately 37,438-acres or 95% of all vegetative cover. Other vegetative
communities, including shrub, herbaceous, and alpine communities make up approximately
1,930-acres (5%).
The following vegetative communities (Viereck, et al., 1992) are found in the Skilak WRA
(Figure 3.1 & Figure 3.2):
Mixed Forests – Mixed forests consist of needleleaf and deciduous trees. In the Skilak WRA,
mixed forests consist of white spruce (Picea glauca), black spruce (Picea mariana), quaking
aspen (Populus tremuloides), and paper birch (Betula papyrifera). These forests account for
0-1
31
approximately 17,272-acres (43.9%). Open mixed forests (25-59% canopy cover) account for
9,417-acres (23.0%). Closed mixed forests (60-100% canopy cover) account for 7,855-acres
(20.0%). Mixed forests are typically found in the east and central sectors of the area with a fairly
large continuous portion found south of the Skilak Loop Road from the Rock Lake area to the
Lower Skilak Lake Campground.
Deciduous Forests – Deciduous forests consist of broadleaf trees. In the Skilak WRA, deciduous
forests consist of quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides), paper birch (Betula papyrifera), and
black cottonwood (Populus balsamifera trichocarpa). These forests account for approximately
10,534-acres (26.8%). Open deciduous forests (25-59% canopy cover) account for 1,278-acres
(3.2%). Closed deciduous forests (60-100% canopy cover) account for 9,256-acres (23.5%).
Deciduous forests are typically found in the south-east sector of the Skilak WRA, but a
significant portion is also found in the western sector north of the Skilak Loop Road.
Needleleaf Forests – Needleleaf forests consist of coniferous trees. In the Skilak WRA,
needleleaf forests consists of white and black spruce. These forests account for approximately
9,632-acres (24.5%). Open needleleaf forests (25-59% canopy cover) account for 1,972 (5.0%).
Closed needleleaf forests (60-100% canopy cover) account for 5,591-acres (14.2%), and
woodland needleleaf forests (10-24% canopy cover) account for 2,069-acres (5.3%). The
majority of the acreage is found in the north-west sector of the Skilak WRA.
Shrub – Shrub communities contains two distinct vegetation categories: Closed Tall Scrub and
Open Low Scrub. This community type accounts for approximately 1,330-acres (3.4%). Closed
Tall Scrub is dominated by Sitka alder (Alnus sinuata) and/or willow (Salix spp.), and is
typically found in wet meadows and near streams. Open Low Scrub primarily consisting of bog
birch (Betula glandulosa),dwarf arctic birch (Betula nana),bog blueberry (Vaccinium
uliginosum), and mountain cranberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea) can be found at higher elevations
on Hideout Mountain.
Herbaceous – Herbaceous communities are dominated by bluejoint reedgrass (Calamagrostis
canadensis) but also includes various sedges (Carex spp.). This community type is typically
found along flood plains and edges of lakes or drained wetlands. It accounts for approximately
465-acres (1.2%) primarily along Hidden Creek.
Alpine – Alpine communities are dominated by arctic willow (Salix arctica), dwarf arctic birch
(Betula pubescens), and several species of grasses, sedges, and lichens. The highest elevations in
the Skilak WRA support alpine tundra. This community type, found only on Hideout Mountain,
accounts for approximately 135-acres (0.3%).
32
0-2
Figure 3.2. Vegetation Classification
23.9%
23.5%
20.0%
14.2%
5.3%
5.0%
3.4%
3.2% 1.2%
0.3% Open Mixed
Closed Deciduous
Closed Mixed
Closed Needleleaf
Woodland Needleleaf
Open Needleleaf
Shrub
Open Deciduous
Herbaceous
Alpine
Habitat Disturbance
Approximately half of the forested areas on the Kenai Lowlands (refuge-wide) are in various
stages of succession largely due to lightening strikes and human-caused fire, but also, as a result
of management activities such as mechanical crushing and prescribed fire use. More than
11,000-acres (29.5%) of the Skilak WRA, and an additional 5,000-acres immediately adjacent to
it have been managed since 1978 (Figure 3.3, Table 3.3).
Wildfire – The 1947 Skilak Lake Fire, which was started by a road construction crew, burned
approximately 310,000-acres in GMU 15A which included 24,945-acres in the Skilak WRA. In
1963, a 400-acre wildfire burned in the vicinity of Engineer Lake, and in the early and mid-
1990s, two wildland fires, the Pothole Lake and Hidden Creek fires, burned approximately
7,000-acres (18.7%) of the Skilak WRA.
Vegetation Crushing and Prescribed Fire – In 1970, the Refuge purchased three 40-ton
Letourneau timber crushers. From 1974 to 1978 the crushers were used to manage approximately
7,000-acres in the northern portion of the Refuge. They were transferred to ADF&G in 1983.
Over the next four years, approximately 4,000-acres were crushed in and adjacent to the Skilak
WRA by ADF&G. All but 600-acres were subsequently burned by the Refuge using prescribed
fire. ADF&G surplused the Letourneau tree crushers in 1988, marking the end of large scale
mechanical manipulation on Kenai Refuge (USFWS 1996).
Spruce Bark Beetle Infestation – Kenai Refuge has historically suffered periodic infestations of
spruce bark beetle (Dendroctonus rufipennis). Dendrochronology studies have shown evidence
of regional bark beetle outbreaks in the 1760s, 1780s, 1810s, 1850s, 1870s, 1910s, 1970s, and
1990s. Approximately 850-acres (2.2%) have been impacted by spruce bark beetle in the Skilak
WRA.
0-3
34
Table 3.3. Habitat Modifications In and Adjacent to the Skilak WRA
Name Treatment
Type
Treatment
Year
Acres % of Forest
Cover
Mystery Creek Vegetation
Management Area
Mechanical
Crushing
1978 4,300 Adjacent to
SWRA
Skilak WRA Vegetation Management
Area (Unit 1)
Mechanical
Crushing
1984 1,225 3.3%
Skilak WRA Vegetation Management
Area (Unit 2)
Mechanical
Crushing
1985 1,972 5.3%
Skilak WRA Vegetation Management
Area (Unit 1)
Prescribed Fire 1986 Same as
above
Same as
above
Lily Lake Vegetation Management
Area
Mechanical
Crushing
1986 700 Adjacent to
SWRA
Skilak WRA Vegetation Management
Area (Unit 2)
Prescribed Fire 1987 Same as
above
Same as
above
Lily Lake Vegetation Management
Area
Prescribed Fire 1987 Same as
above
Adjacent to
SWRA
Unit 3 Pothole Lake Fire Wildland Fire 1991 1,800 4.8%
Unit 4 Hidden Creek Fire Wildland Fire 1996 5,200 13.9%
Throughout Skilak WRA Bark Beetle
Infestation
Ongoing 842 2.2%
Total 16,039
4
Forest Age Classes
Natural processes and management actions have influenced forest succession throughout the
Skilak WRA. As a result, the Skilak WRA contains a diversity of forest age classes ranging from
early seral (<20 years old) to climax forests (141-180 years old) (Table 3.4, Figure 3.4). A short
description of forest age classes follows:
Mature Forests – Forest communities of this age class are dominated by trees that are 41-60
years old. They are the product of forest succession resulting from the 1947 Skilak Lake Fire.
Mature forests, which account for approximately 24,945-acres (63.3%), dominate the Skilak
WRA and consist of a diversity of deciduous, needleleaf, and mixed forest communities.
Although it is the dominate age class throughout the area, its continuity is disrupted at specific
locations in the western, central, and eastern sectors where additional fire events have occurred
and habitat management actions have been implemented.
Wildlife species found in this age class include black bear, coyote, lynx, porcupine, red-backed
vole, red squirrel, wolf, dark-eyed junco, gray jay, great horned owl, spruce grouse, and a variety
of woodpeckers, chickadees, warblers, and thrushes. Approximately 66 wildlife species are
thought to use this age class for breeding (USFWS 1985).
0-4
36
Early Seral Stage Forests – Forest communities of this age class are dominated by trees that are
less than 20 years old. They are the product of forest succession resulting from the Pothole Lake
and Hidden Creek wildland fires. Early seral stage forests, which account for approximately
5,160-acres (13.2%) in the eastern and central sectors of the Skilak WRA, are deciduous forest
communities.
Wildlife species found in this age class include black bear, brown bear, coyote, lynx, masked
shrew, moose, red-backed vole, snowshoe hare, wolf, spruce grouse, and a variety of
woodpeckers, sparrows, thrushes, flycatchers, and warblers. Approximately 39 wildlife species
are thought to use this age class for breeding (USFWS 1985).
Intermediate Stage Forests – Forest communities of this age class are dominated by trees that are
21-40 years old. They are the product of forest succession resulting from vegetation management
activities conducted in the mid-1980s. Additional acreage of this age class can be found in the
vicinity of the Sterling Highway and Skilak Loop Road intersection (East Entrance).
Intermediate stage forests make up approximately 3,320-acres (8.4%) in the Skilak WRA and
consist of a diversity of deciduous and mixed forest communities.
Wildlife species found in this age class include black bear, brown bear, coyote, lynx, moose, red-backed
vole, short-tailed weasel, wolf, and a variety of woodpeckers, sparrows, thrushes,
flycatchers, and warblers. Approximately 47 wildlife species are thought to use this age class for
breeding (USFWS 1985).
Climax Forests – Forest communities of this age class are dominated by trees that are 141-180
years old. Climax forests make up approximately 1,100-acres (2.8%) in the Skilak WRA. This
age class can be found in the vicinity of the Sterling Highway and Skilak Loop Road intersection
(East Entrance) consisting of closed deciduous and mixed forest communities. It can also be
found along the Skilak Loop Road where deciduous, mixed, and needleleaf forest communities
occur. An additional stand is located in the central sector of the area west of the Upper Skilak
Campground access road below Lower Ohmer Lake. This stand is a closed mixed forest
community.
Wildlife species found in this age class include black bear, coyote, masked shrew, red squirrel,
wolf, black-capped chickadee, spruce grouse, and a variety of woodpeckers and warblers.
Approximately 68 wildlife species are thought to use this age class for breeding (USFWS 1985).
Not Aged – Approximately 5,420-acres (12.4%) of the eastern sector has not been aged. Much of
this area is identified as shrub and alpine communities found on Hideout Mountain. Other
portions of this area consists of deciduous, needleleaf, and mixed forest communities.
37
Table 3.4. Forest Age Classes
Forest Age Class Acres % of Skilak WRA Diversity
Index1
% of All
Species
Not Aged 4,855 12.4 n/a n/a
Early Seral Stage
(<20 years old) 5,160 13.1 39 19.6
Intermediate Stage
(21-40 years old) 3,320 8.4 47 23.6
Mature Stage
(41-60 years old) 24,945 63.3 66 33.1
Climax Stage
(141-180 years old) 1,100 2.8 68 34.1
Total 39,380 100% - -
5
3.2.2 Wildlife
Due to the location of the Skilak WRA situated between the Kenai Lowlands, Kenai Mountains,
and Skilak Lake, the diversity of habitats and relatively undisturbed condition of the area, many
if not most, of the 199 vertebrates common to Kenai Refuge are also thought to inhabit the
Skilak WRA. A short assessment of species common to the area and/or those that could be
affected by proposed management actions follows.
Megafauna
Black bears (Ursus americanus)
Habitat – Black bears are found in all forested habitats on Kenai Refuge, though they are most
abundant in intermediate stage forests (21-40 years old) (USFWS 1985). Although they prefer
forested and shrubby areas, they will also use wet meadows, ridgetops, burned areas, and riparian
areas (Pelton 1987). They prefer wet over dry sites, and timbered over open areas (Unsworth
1989). Forest habitats dominate the landscape in the Skilak WRA accounting for approximately
37,438-acres. Intermediate stage forests account for 3,320-acres (8.9%), and mature forests
resulting from the 1947 Skilak Lake Fire accounts for 24,945-acres (62.3%).
Population – The black bear population for the Kenai Peninsula is estimated at 3,000 bears (Del
Frate 2002). Although the population is believed to be stable, fewer moose in the 1969 burn area
and loss of habitat through continuing human encroachment will probably result in declining
population numbers (Del Frate 2002). In GMU 15A, bear densities are estimated at 205
bears/1000 km squared (or 1 bear per 1,205 acres) for mature forests resulting from the 1947
Skilak Lake Fire (Schwartz and Franzmann 1991)). As such, mature forests in the Skilak WRA
may support up to 20 bears. Although the black bear population for the Skilak WRA is unknown,
numerous sightings and encounters with visitors indicate their use of the area.
1 Diversity Index is the total number of species using the habitat for breeding purposes.
38
Brown Bears (Ursus arctos)
Habitat – Brown bears use 8,800 square kilometers (2,175,000 acres) or 37.7% of the Kenai
Peninsula (Jacobs 1989). Human activities associated with development are altering important
brown bear habitat on the peninsula. The infrastructure associated with this growth fragments
habitat for bears, which need large, undeveloped areas for viability. Kenai Refuge provides the
largest continuous, homogenous block of brown bear habitat on the peninsula. Habitat use varies
seasonally in response to food availability (Jacobs 1989; Schoen 1994). Meat obtained from
moose, caribou, and rodents is an important food source during spring and summer. Salmon are a
critical resource from the time they arrive in summer to the time bears den in the fall
(Hilderbrand et al. 2000).
Defense of Life and Property (DLP) – Human encroachment into brown bear habitat has led to a
significant increase in the number of bears killed to protect life and property. Over 150 brown
bears have been killed in DLP on the Kenai Peninsula since statehood. For the 17-year period
from 1973 through 1989, a total of 38 (2.4 per year) DLP deaths were recorded. The rate of DLP
deaths more than doubled during the 7-year period from 1990 thorough 1996, when a total of 40
(5.7 per year) bear deaths were recorded (ADF&G 2000). Five DLP deaths have occurred within
the boundaries of the Skilak WRA over the last 25 years.
Population – The Kenai Peninsula brown bear population is listed as a “Species of Special
Concern” (ADF&G 2000). Although there is no statistically reliable estimate of the Kenai
Peninsula population, extrapolation from other regions with assumed similar bear densities has
been attempted. Jacobs (1989) provided an initial estimate of 150-250 bears. ADF&G biologists
later increased the estimate to 277 for management purposes (Del Frate 1993). Although the
brown bear population in the Skilak WRA is unknown, numerous sightings and encounters with
visitors indicate their use of the area.
Caribou (Rangifer tarandus)
Habitat – The Kenai Lowlands Caribou Herd is the only caribou herd on the Kenai Peninsula
that migrates between summer calving grounds and winter ranges. The herd summers in GMU
15A typically where poorly drained meadows, sedge bogs, and muskeg habitats are found. In
October, they migrate to winter in the Moose River drainage including portions of the Skilak
WRA. Their winter range encompasses 291 square miles (ADF&G et al 2003). They are often
observed through the month of April in black spruce forests located in the western portion of the
Skilak WRA.
Population – Caribou were extirpated from the peninsula by 1912. In 1966, a population of 29
caribou (3 males and 26 females) was released at Watson Lake in the vicinity of the present day
Skilak WRA. By 1993, the herd numbered 66 animals (ADF&G et al 1994). The population
continued to increase steadily from 96 animals in 1995-96 to a peak of 140 during spring 1999.
The population has declined slightly since then and is now estimated at 135 animals (Selinger
2005).
39
Moose (Alces alces)
Habitat – Moose inhabit white and black spruce forests mixed with birch and willow, riparian
communities, and herbaceous bogs. Habitat preference varies with season. In spring and summer
moose can be found in open plant communities where forage is abundant, such as riparian
communities, bogs, and early seral stage forests. During winter, moose prefer forested areas
below 3,500 feet and move into denser, needleleaf forests as the winter progresses. Ideal winter
range is composed of needleleaf trees taller than 18 feet with a canopy cover of 75% or greater
(Timmermann, H.R. 1988). The use of needleleaf forests has been suggested for both predator
avoidance (Stephens and Peterson 1984) and thermal protection (VanBallenberghe and Peek
1971). Moose distribution in winter is limited by the availability of woody food plants and by
snow conditions.
Habitat quality has declined throughout most of GMU 15A as forest succession resulting from
the 1947 Skilak Lake fire transitions from an intermediate to mature age class. Approximately
85,000-acres of intermediate stage forests resulting from a 1969 wildland fire in GMU 15A
continues to provide browse for most of the moose wintering in the area. In the Skilak WRA
summer habitat includes early and intermediate stage deciduous and mixed forests and riparian
habitats associated with lentic and lotic systems. Early seral stage deciduous and mixed forests
amount to 5,499-acres (11.7%) and intermediate stage deciduous and mixed forests amount to
3,184-acres (8.5%). Winter range (i.e., closed needleleaf forests with 50-100% canopy cover)
amounts to 5,591-acres (14.2%).
Roadkills – According to State Trooper records, 57 moose were killed by vehicle collisions on
the Sterling Highway in the Skilak WRA (i.e., between MP 58-75) from 1998 – 2005 or on
average over 8 moose per year. Most collisions (63%) have occurred on either side of the East
Fork of the Moose River in the vicinity of Egumen Lake (MP 69-71; n=20) and Bottenintnin
Lake (MP 73-75; n=16). An interagency effort to address roadkills along the Sterling Highway is
currently underway.
Population – In 1982, 3,000 moose were estimated in GMU 15A (Selinger 2004). Estimations
made in 1987 and 1990 indicated a stable population trend in the range of 3,014-3,850 animals
(Selinger, 2004). The population exhibited a declining trend through the 1990s, probably mainly
due the result of forest succession in the 1969 burn. In 1995, the moose population estimate for
GMU 15A was 1,780 animals (USFWS 1996) and 2,097 in 2001 (Selinger 2004). In the Skilak
WRA, moose surveys are conducted every other year when survey conditions allow. Lack of
complete snow cover prevented surveys from taking place in 1999-2000, 2000-01, or 2002-03.
Survey data show moose numbers have varied over time (Figure 3.5).
40
0-5
Figure 3.5 Moose Composition in the Skilak WRA During Surveyed Years
0
50
100
150
200
250
1989-90
1990-91
1991-92
1992-93
1994-95
1996-97
1997-98
1998-99
2003-04
2005-06
Year
Number
Bulls
Cows
Total
Wolf (Canis lupus)
Habitat – Wolves are habitat generalists which do not require a specific habitat type for survival.
Wolf habitat is based largely on the density of prey species found in a given habitat. To maintain
wolf habitat, viable, robust ungulate populations must be present.
Population – Wolves were exterminated on the Kenai Peninsula by 1915. Wolves remained
absent from the Kenai Peninsula for about 50 years (except for a few rare sightings) until they
naturally recolonized in the late 1960s. The wolf population on Kenai Refuge reached about 90
animals in the 1970s. In the early 1980s, it was estimated at 82 with 60% of it located in GMU
15A. From the 1980s to the early 1990s, average wolf pack territory size in the northern half of
the Refuge ranged from 180 to 850 square kilometers, and wolf density averaged about 13
wolves per 1,000 square kilometers. The refuge likely supports an estimated 80-99 wolves in at
least five to seven packs in GMU 15A. The number of wolves using the Skilak WRA is
unknown.
Fur Animals
ADF&G categorizes a number of species as fur animals. The following fur animals are found
within the Skilak WRA:
Beaver (Castor canadensis)
Habitat – Beaver require stable aquatic habitat that provides adequate water, a channel gradient
of less than 15%, and quality food species present in sufficient quantity (Allen 1983). Lakes 20-
acres in surface area with irregular shorelines provide optimum habitat for Beaver. All of the
lakes in the Skilak WRA are over 20-acres in size except one and are thought to support beaver.
Intermittent streams or streams that have major fluctuations in discharge have little year-round
value.
Population – Population density and trends have not been measured and are poorly understood in
41
most areas on the Kenai Peninsula, though Beaver numbers are thought to vary dependent upon
habitat quality or predator abundance. Incidental observations and the trend in nuisance beaver
complaints indicate that beaver populations peaked about 1984 and have remained relatively
stable (Spraker 2001). Although the beaver population in the Skilak WRA is unknown,
numerous sightings indicate their use of the area.
Coyote (Canis latrans)
Habitat – Coyotes are habitat generalists which do not require a specific habitat type for survival.
Coyote habitat is based largely on the density of prey species found in a given habitat. Smaller
mammals such as snowshoe hares, porcupines, and red-backed voles make up the majority of a
coyote’s diet on the Kenai Peninsula. There is little evident overlap in food habits between
coyotes and wolves because the latter rely primarily on moose.
Population – Coyotes are thought to have colonized the Kenai Peninsula during the same period
wolves were absent (1915-1965). Red fox were abundant prior to 1930 according to long-time
Kenai residents, however they quickly disappeared as coyotes established and rapidly increased
during the 1930s (Spraker 2001). Today, coyotes are found throughout the Kenai Peninsula at
varying density levels dependent upon habitat quality or prey abundance, but generally, they are
believed to be widely distributed and abundant (Spraker 2001). Although the coyote population
in the Skilak WRA is unknown, sightings indicate their use of the area.
Lynx (Lynx canadensis)
Habitat – Lynx are cyclically abundant in the forest habitats of the Kenai Peninsula. They
require a mix of early and late stage habitats to meet their food and cover needs. Early
successional stage habitats provide lynx with a prey base, while mature forests provide denning
space and cover. Lynx can also be found in intermediate stage forests when hare are numerous
(Heinselman 1973). Early seral stage mixed forests on the Refuge, particularly within GMU
15A, appear to have a higher carrying capacity for snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus) which
are lynx primary prey. In the Skilak WRA, there are approximately 4,958-acres (13.2%) of early
seral stage mixed, deciduous, and woodland needleleaf forests, and 17,026-acres (45.5%) of
mature mixed, deciduous, and woodland needleleaf forests.
Population – Lynx populations usually fluctuate in a cycle with snowshoe hare populations,
peaking about every 9 to 10 years (USFWS 1994). Between 1977 and 1982, 25 lynx were
estimated to reside in the northern part of the Refuge. By 1987, densities had risen in some areas
three-fold after a lynx trapping closure in 1984 (USFWS 1988). In the late 1980s to early 1990s,
lynx showed a preference for areas burned by the 1947 Skilak Lake Fire, particularly areas that
included mature forest remnants. Lynx density increased noticeably during the mid-1990s in
response to an increase in the abundance of snowshoe hares. Harvest records indicate lynx
density remained high from 1997-98 to 1999-00 (Spraker 2001). Although the lynx population in
the Skilak WRA is unknown, routine sightings indicate their presence in the area.
Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
Habitat – Although red foxes can survive in many habitats, they prefer areas with a mixture of
plant communities (Ables 1971).
42
Population – Red fox were abundant prior to 1930 according to long-time Kenai residents,
however they quickly disappeared as coyotes established and rapidly increased during the 1930s
(Spraker 2001). Although the red fox population in the Skilak WRA is unknown, it is generally
believed to be rare or absent from the area.
Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus)
Habitat – Red squirrel inhabits needleleaf forests and mixed forests, and occasionally can be
found in deciduous forests. They require mature needleleaf trees, preferably white spruce, as a
source of cones and seed (DeGraaf 1986, Brink 1964). There are approximately 16,951-acres
(45.2%) of potential habitat for red squirrel in the Skilak WRA including 6,319-acres (16.9%) of
mature needleleaf forests and 10,632-acres (28.4%) of mature mixed forests. White spruce is
found in well-drained soils typical of uplands areas in the Kenai Lowlands and at higher
elevations on Hideout Mountain. Black spruce dominates poorly drained sites throughout the
Kenai Lowlands.
Population – Although the red squirrel population for the Skilak WRA is unknown, numerous
sightings along trails indicate their extensive use of the area.
Small Game
ADF&G categorizes a number of species as small game. The following small game species are
found within the Skilak WRA.
Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago)
Habitat – Snipe are found in lentic and lotic systems, primarily bogs, ponds, and riparian habitats
that contain sedges, rushes, and willows. The Skilak WRA consists of 4,630-acres (10.6%) of
lake, pond, and wetland habitat, and 19-miles of rivers.
Population – Although the snipe population in the Skilak WRA is unknown, sightings are
common in the area.
Ruffed Grouse (Bonasa umbellus)
Habitat – Ruffed grouse occupy a variety of plant communities across its distribution range,
however, they seem to have higher survival rates in mixed forests than in pure needleleaf forests
(Barber et al 1989). Throughout most of their range, ruffed grouse prefer pure stands of quaking
aspen if those stands have a mix of age classes (Gullion 1972) or quaking aspen mixed with
other deciduous or needleleaf trees. Newly regenerated aspen stands provide nesting cover for up
to 10 years, while 10 to 25-year old aspen are good for overwintering and breeding. Stands over
25 years provide nesting cover and food (Perala 1977). The Skilak WRA consists of 17,272-
acres (43.9%) of mixed forests and 10,534-acres (26.8%) of deciduous forests. Early seral stage
deciduous forests account for 1,689-acres (4.5%) and more than 8,000-acres of deciduous forests
are older than 25 years.
Population – Between 1995 and 1997, 232 ruffed grouse were transplanted from Interior Alaska
and released, in part, one mile from the refuge boundary by ADF&G. Within a year of
introduction, broods had been spotted at Lily Lake and along the Skilak Loop Road (Steen
43
1997). The ruffed grouse population in the Skilak WRA is unknown. Sightings, although
uncommon, indicate their use of the area.
Sandhill Crane (Grus Canadensis)
Habitat – In the northern part of its range, sandhill cranes inhabit sedge meadows and wetland
communities that contain adequate emergent vegetation for nest building (Melvin 1990). The
single most important factor regulating sandhill crane populations is habitat availability. Nesting
effort and success, as well as survival of young, correlate directly with the amount and quality of
nesting habitat (Sharp et al 1992). In the Skilak WRA, wetlands account for 1,140-acres (2.6%).
Population – Population estimates and trends have come from direct counts of wintering and
migrating birds. The total population estimate for the species is 652,000 to 715,000 birds. The
number of sandhill cranes using the Skilak WRA is unknown. Sightings, although uncommon,
indicate their use of the area.
Snowshoe Hare (Lepus americanus)
Habitat – Snowshoe hares occupy needleleaf and mixed forests in all stages of succession, but
early seral forests that have dense understories foster peak abundance. Deciduous forests are
usually occupied only in early successional stages (Grange 1965). The presence of understory
cover is the primary determinant of habitat quality and is more significant than food availability
(Carreker 1985) or species composition (Litvaitis 1990). The Skilak WRA consists of 9,639-
acres (25.7%) of needleleaf forests and 17,289-acres (46.1%) of mixed forests in various stages
of succession. Early seral stage deciduous forests account for 1,689-acres (4.5%). The condition
of the understory in these forest communities has not been analyzed.
Population – Snowshoe hare populations undergo cycles that range from 7 to 17 years between
population peaks. The average time between peaks is approximately 10 years. The period of
abundance usually lasts for 2 to 5 years followed by a population decline. Based on population
density studies conducted by the Refuge in 1984, average adult hare densities were 2.5 adults per
square mile in GMU 15A. GMU 15A appears to have a higher carrying capacity for snowshoe
hare than other portions of the Refuge. Hare populations increased in the early-1990s and
remained stable in the area until 1998 (Spraker 2001) when densities declined to 1.0 adult per
square mile. Although the snowshoe hare population in the Skilak WRA is unknown, sightings
indicate their use of the area.
Spruce Grouse (Falcipennis canadensis)
Habitat – Spruce grouse, a native species to the Kenai Peninsula, can be found in needleleaf-dominated
forest habitats. Over most of its range, it uses dense, early successional stage
needleleaf forests (<30 years old) that have well-developed middle canopies. Their association
with needleleaf forests may be less close during periods of dispersal and migration. There are
approximately 9,632-acres (24.5%) of needleleaf forests in the Skilak WRA with some 1,290-
acres (13.4%) of it in early successional stage.
Population – Although the spruce grouse population for the Skilak WRA is unknown, sightings
along the Skilak Loop Road and trails indicate their use of the area.
44
Waterfowl (Anatidae)
Species – Ten species of ducks have been identified in the Skilak WRA including four species of
dabbling ducks (American Widgeon (Anas Americana), Northern Pintail (Anas acuta), Mallard
(Anas platyrhynchos), and Green-winged Teal (Anas crecca)) and six species of diving ducks
(Barrow’s Goldeneye (Bucephala islandica), Common Goldeneye (Bucephala clangula),
Common Merganser (Mergus merganser), Red-breasted Merganser (Mergus serrator), Surf
Scoter (Melanitta perspicillata), and Bufflehead (Bucephala albeola)). Dabbling ducks, which
are typically migratory species, are abundant during the breeding season. Diving ducks, most of
which are year round residents, are common during the non-breeding season but less so during
the breeding season.
Habitat – Dabbling ducks are commonly found on small ponds and wetlands in the Skilak WRA,
and diving ducks are more common on deeper lakes.
Willow Ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus)
Habitat – Willow ptarmigan are common in areas with patches of dense vegetation, especially
where willow or birch shrubs are abundant (Weeden 1965). They are also found in sedge-willow
marshes, in meadows, and along road and forest edges (Campbell et al 1990).
Population – The willow ptarmigan population in the Skilak WRA is unknown. Sightings,
although uncommon, indicate their use of the area.
Birds
Kenai Refuge provides a mosaic of habitats for over 150 species of birds or approximately 32%
of all bird species identified in Alaska. At least 76 species have been recorded in the Skilak
WRA and 87% of those species are known to breed locally (USGS website). Over half of the
birds recorded in the Skilak WRA are migratory birds which spend only a portion of their life
cycle in the area. Twenty-five species are year-round residents (Brown 1999). A short
assessment of the most common bird families follows:
Gulls and Terns (Laridae)
Species – Three species of gulls and one tern have been identified in the Skilak WRA:
Bonaparte’s Gull (Larus Philadelphia), Mew Gull (Larus canus), Glaucous-winged Gull (Larus
glaucescens), and Arctic Tern (Sterna paradisaea). These species are migratory birds that are
abundant during the breeding season.
Habitat – Gulls and terns are found in riparian habitats and black spruce bog forests in the Skilak
WRA. Glaucous-winged gull rookeries occur on various islands in Skilak Lake.
Raptors (Accipitridae)
Species – Five species of raptors have been identified in the Skilak WRA: Bald Eagle
(Haliaeetus leucocephalus), Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentiles), Northern Harrier (Circus
cyaneus), Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensus), and Sharp-shinned Hawk (Accipiter striatus).
These species are residents or short-distance migrants that are common during the breeding
season.
45
Habitat – Bald eagles are regularly found in riverine systems, particularly along the Kenai River
where salmon and other fish species are readily available. Three Bald Eagle nests are present in
the Skilak WRA. Northern Goshawks use a wide variety of forest ages, structural conditions, and
successional stages including transitional zones from bog to forest and forest to shrubland.
Riparian zones and mosaics of forested and open areas are important hunting habitats, and
climax stands are typically used for nesting. Sharp-shinned hawks occur primarily in coniferous
forests, but are also found in woodland needleleaf forests. Northern harriers prefer sloughs, wet
meadows, and shrublands, and hunt in large forest openings..
Sandpipers (Scolopacidae)
Species – Six species of sandpipers have been recorded in the Skilak WRA: Red-necked
Phalarope (Phalaropus lobatus), Spotted Sandpiper (Actitis macularia), Least Sandpiper
(Calidris minutilla), Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago), Greater Yellowlegs (Tringa
melanoleuca), and Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes). These species are migratory birds that
are abundant during the breeding season.
Habitat – Sandpipers are found in riparian habitats and black spruce bog forests in the Skilak WRA.
Sparrows and Juncos (Emberizidae)
Species – Eight species of sparrows and juncos have been recorded in the Skilak WRA: Fox
Sparrow (Passerella iliaca), American Tree Sparrow (Spizella arborea), Slate-colored Junco
(Junco hyemalis), Lincoln’s Sparrow (Melospiza lincolnii), Savannah Sparrow (Passerculus
sandwichensis), White-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia leucophrys), Song Sparrow (Melospiza
melodia), and Golden-crowned Sparrow (Zonotrichia atricapilla). These species are migratory
birds that are abundant during the breeding season.
Habitat – Sparrows and juncos are found in all forest communities and age classes in the Skilak
WRA.
Thrushes (Turdidae)
Species – Five species of thrushes have been identified in the Skilak WRA: Gray-cheeked thrush
(Catharus minimus), Varied Thrush (Ixoreus naevius), Swainson’s Thrush (Catharus ustulatus),
Hermit Thrush (Catharus guttatus), and American Robin (Turdus migratorius). These species
are migratory birds that are common during the breeding season.
Habitat – Thrushes are found in all forest communities and age classes except black spruce bogs
and riparian habitats in the Skilak WRA.
Waterbirds (Gaviidae, Podicipedidae, and Phalacrocoracidae)
Species – Six species of waterbirds have been identified in the Skilak WRA: Pacific Loon (Gavia
pacifica), Common Loon (Gavia immer), Red-throated Loon (Gavia stellata), Double-crested
Cormorant (Phalacrocorax auritus), Horned Grebe (Podiceps auritus), and Red-necked Grebe
(Podiceps grisegena). These species are migratory birds that are common during the breeding
season.
Habitat – Waterbirds are found in lake systems throughout the Skilak WRA.
46
Woodpeckers (Picidae)
Species – Three species of woodpeckers have been identified in the Skilak WRA: Hairy
(Picoides villosus), Downy (Picoides pubescens), and Three-toed woodpeckers (Picoides
tridactylus). These species are year-round residents that are common throughout the year.
Habitat – Woodpeckers are found in all forest communities of all age classes in the Skilak WRA.
Wood Warblers (Parulidae)
Species – Seven species of wood warblers have been identified in the Skilak WRA: Townsend’s
Warbler (Dendroica townsendi), Myrtle Warbler (Dendroica coronata), Orange-crowned
Warbler (Vermivora celata), Yellow Warbler (Dendroica petechia), Wilson’s Warbler (Wilsonia
pusilla), Blackpoll Warbler (Dendroica striata) and Northern Waterthrush (Seivrus
noveboralensis). These species are migratory birds that are common during the breeding season.
Habitat – Wood warblers are found in all forest communities and age classes except black spruce
bog forests and riparian habitats in the Skilak WRA.
Fish
Fish are an important resource on the Kenai Peninsula and in the Skilak WRA. Not only are
various fish species found in the Skilak WRA attractive to anglers for recreational fishing, they
also provide an important food source for some of the wildlife that inhabit the region.
Anadromous Fish
Waters within the Skilak WRA contain several species of anadromous fish. Anadromous fish are
those species of fish that migrate upriver from the ocean to reproduce in freshwater. In the Skilak
WRA, these include Chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), coho (Oncorhynchus kisutch),
sockeye (Oncorhynchus nerka), and pink (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) salmon as well as Dolly
Varden (Salvelinus malma Walbaum). Anadromous fish are found in the Kenai River, as well as
Skilak and Hidden Lakes. In addition, several lakes attached to the east fork of the Moose River
are spawning grounds for coho and sockeye salmon.
Resident Fish
The Kenai River and most lakes in the Skilak WRA contain populations of resident fish.
Resident fish are those fish species that remain in freshwater systems (streams, rivers, or lakes)
throughout their lives. In the Skilak WRA, important resident fish species include rainbow trout
(Oncorhynchus mykiss), lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush), and Dolly Varden. Rainbow trout are
found in the Kenai River and in many lakes, such as Hidden, Engineer, and Peterson Lakes. Lake
trout are found in the Kenai River and larger lakes, such as Skilak and Hidden Lakes. There are
several species of resident fish found in the Skilak WRA, such as sculpins (Cottus spp.)
stickleback (Gasterosteidae) and whitefish (Coregonus), which have no recreational
significance, but are important food sources for other fish and wildlife.
Many of the isolated lakes in the Skilak WRA are not very productive biologically for resident
fish. Because of the low biological productivity, populations of resident fish remain sparse and
growth is slow. In the lakes and river systems containing anadromous fish, resident fish often
grow at a faster rate because of the high amount of food available from spawning salmonids.
47
Resident fish, such as rainbow trout and Dolly Varden, gorge themselves on salmon eggs and
spawned out salmon flesh. These fish reach much larger sizes than the same species located in
isolated lakes in the Skilak WRA.
Both anadromous and resident fishes are attractive to recreational anglers in the Skilak WRA.
The resident populations, because of their low levels and slow growth, warrant especially careful
management to protect them from excessive harvesting. Some of the lakes can support
recreational fishing naturally; others cannot. Controlling factors seem to be lake depth, which
must be sufficient to prevent freezing to the bottom in winter, and the availability of suitable
reproductive habitat for resident fish.
3.3 Human Environment
3.3.1 Brief History of the Area
The Skilak Lake area has been occupied by humans for at least 5,000 and possibly 9,000 years.
The earliest inhabitants were big game hunters, pursuing caribou and sheep in the highlands. By
about 1000 BC people were living along the rivers and had a mixed economy based on hunting
and salmon fishing. The river corridor and Skilak and Kenai Lakes have been major
transportation corridors across the Kenai Peninsula for hundreds if not thousands of years.
Russian explorers and traders established trading outposts along the shores of Cook Inlet
beginning in 1786. By 1794 there were forts at English Bay, Kasilof River, Kenai River and on
the north Forelands. No more than 150 Russians ever occupied the area but the economic system
centered on furs established during this time remained intact after the sale of Alaska to the U.S.
in 1867.
In 1848, the mining engineer Petyr Doroshin explored Skilak Lake and the upper Kenai River for
gold. Although he found traces of it he discouraged further development as unprofitable. An
American named Stone searched the Skilak Lake area in 1868. In 1884, Joseph Cooper opened a
trading post at present day Cooper Landing. Gold was found in commercial quantities on the
upper Kenai River in 1895 by Charles Sickles and James Stetson (McMahan and Buzzell 1986).
By 1910-11, the Kenai River from Cooper Landing to Skilak Lake was claimed for dredging
operations. Dredging was attempted until 1914 but with little success (Buzzell 1985). Mining
activity peaked in 1910 and tapered off rapidly (McMahan and Buzzell 1986).
After WWI the economy shifted from mining to a mixed based on summertime mining, big game
guiding, fur farming, winter trapping, and other activities. Fishing and gardening were important
subsistence pursuits. The first homestead applications were filed in 1915 (McMahan and Buzzell
1986; Buzzell 1985). The Skilak Lake area was the focus of these families economic and social
activities and an elaborate annual subsistence routine developed to use local resources. World
War II brought a huge influx of new people and recreational development. The Skilak Military
Recreation Site at the outlet of Skilak Lake was built in the early 1940’s. It was eventually turned
over to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 1958. Also during the 1950’s, the Seward Army
Recreational Center maintained temporary camps on Hidden Lake.
The Kenai River corridor has always been a major travel route across the Kenai Peninsula.
48
Surveying and clearing for the Sterling Highway began in 1946 (McMahan and Buzzell 1986).
Actual construction began in 1947 and the road was graveled in 1948. Though graveled the road
was only passable in good weather. A portion of the original highway is now the Skilak Loop
Road located in the Skilak WRA. At first the road was too poor to encourage much traffic and
had little impact on the area between Sterling and Cooper Landing. In the mid-1950s, oil
companies began to explore the northern part of the Peninsula along the Swanson River.
Increasing development led to road improvements and the present highway was paved in 1956.
3.3.2 Local Population
Kenai NWR lies within the Kenai Peninsula Borough, which is comprised of the Kenai
Peninsula, Cook Inlet, and a large, mostly unpopulated area, northeast of the Alaska Peninsula.
The total population of the Borough was 50,980 in 2004 (Alaska Department of Commerce,
Community, and Economic Development). The twin cities of Kenai and Soldotna, along with
nearby Sterling, form the population center of the Borough. The Borough also includes the cities
of Homer and Seward as well as numerous smaller communities along the road system and
several villages accessible only by boat or aircraft
The population of the Kenai Peninsula Borough is dwarfed by that of the Municipality of
Anchorage, which is only three hours by road and 15-20 minutes by air from Kenai Refuge.
Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, home to 277, 498 people in 2004, or about 43% of the
total state population (Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic
Development). The Anchorage population has grown by nearly 100,000 since the first Kenai
Refuge Comprehensive Conservation Plan was completed in 1985. At the same time, continuous
road improvements have made travel between Anchorage and the Kenai Peninsula more
convenient.
3.3.3 Summary of Current Use
The Skilak WRA is one of the most heavily used areas, if not the most heavily used area, of
Kenai NWR due to its close proximity to population centers, easy access, and diversity of public
use facilities provided in a natural setting. Recreational choices range from passive to active
recreation and occur throughout the area during all seasons of the year. In the spring, summer,
and fall, recreation activities include archery hunting, camping, freshwater sport fishing, hiking,
nature photography, sightseeing, and wildlife viewing. During the winter, recreation activities
include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and wildlife viewing. Most visitors participate in
several activities while using the area.
3.3.4 Public Use Access
Access to the Skilak WRA is facilitated by two developed roads into and around the area: the
Sterling Highway and the Skilak Loop Road. Most visitors approaching from the east enter the
Skilak WRA from the Sterling Highway via the Skilak Loop Road at MP 58. Soldotna, Kenai,
and Homer residents generally use the Skilak Loop Road west entrance at MP 75. Visitors can
access the “backcountry” of the Skilak WRA via a number of developed trails, or they can
embark on a cross country journey off-trail through a variety habitats. Boaters can access the
area via the Kenai River or Skilak Lake; pilots can land their aircraft on Hidden Lake,
Bottenintnin Lake, and/or Skilak Lake; and canoeists can explore a number of lakes accessible
from campgrounds and the Bottenintnin Day Use Area.
49
Roads
Sterling Highway
The Sterling Highway is a two lane, paved highway that runs east to west for nearly fifteen (15)
miles along the northern border of the Skilak WRA. It has a speed limit of 55 mph and is a major
route for intrastate commerce and travel. In recognition of its spectacular scenery, rich cultural
heritage, diverse recreational opportunities, archeological importance, wildlife, and natural
beauty the Sterling Highway from MP 37 to the Skilak Lake Loop Road near MP 75 is
designated a state scenic byway.
According to Alaska Department of Transportation (ADOT) traffic figures, in 1996, 2,367
vehicles passed through the Skilak WRA using the Sterling Highway on average each day
(863,955 vehicles per year). In 2004, 3,280 vehicles passed through the Skilak WRA using the
Sterling Highway on average each day (or 1,197,200 vehicles per year). The Sterling Highway
provides access to a number of Skilak WRA facilities.
Access roads originating from the Sterling Highway include: Kelly/Peterson Lake Campground
Access Road (0.93 mile) and Watson Lake Campground Access Road (0.43 mile).
Skilak Loop Road
The Skilak Loop Road is a two lane, gravel road that runs east to west through the southern
portion of the Skilak WRA. It is 18.8 miles in length and has a speed limit of 35 mph. It is the
main artery into the Skilak WRA. According to ADOT traffic figures, in 1996, 210 vehicles
passed through the Skilak WRA using the Skilak Loop Road on average each day (76,650
vehicles per year). In 2004, 398 vehicles passed through the Skilak WRA using the Skilak Loop
Road on average each day (145,270 vehicles per year). The road provides access to the majority
of facilities located within the Skilak WRA.
The Skilak Loop Road, and the access roads leading into Hidden Lake, and Upper and Lower
Skilak campgrounds, are state roads. Campground access roads are gravel except for the access
road to Hidden Lake Campground which is paved. The ADOT is responsible for maintenance of
these roads. ADOT maintenance is performed in accordance with district-wide priorities. Due to
budget reductions, the Skilak Loop Road receives sporadic maintenance. When road conditions
become intolerable and ADOT has not responded to requests for maintenance, Refuge
maintenance crews grade or plow the road to ensure visitor safety.
Access roads adjoining the Skilak Loop Road include: Bottenintnin Lake Day Use Area (0.36
mile), Lower Skilak Lake Campground (1.3 miles), Engineer Lake Campground (0.30 mile),
Upper Skilak Lake Campground (2.4 miles), Hidden Lake Campground (1.5 miles), and Jim’s
Landing (0.20 mile).
Trails
Trails are one of the most effective ways for visitors to observe wildlife in a boreal forest setting
where vegetation is often thick and difficult to see and/or bushwhack through. The Skilak WRA
has eleven (11) designated hiking trails totaling 19.5-miles in length (Table 3.5). There is an
additional 1-mile spur trail originating from the Seven Lakes Trail that provides access to the
northern shore of Hidden Lake.
50
Trails provide opportunities for visitors to access every vegetative community in the Skilak
WRA except wetland and alpine communities which are susceptible to human-related impacts.
Access to a diversity of habitats increases one’s chances of viewing a wide variety of wildlife.
Six (6) trails provide access to closed deciduous forests, five (5) trails provide access to closed
and open mixed forests, and five (5) trails provide access to herbaceous and tall scrub
communities. Only four (4) trails pass through portions of needleleaf communities where
opportunities for viewing wildlife are limited; one of which is the short 0.3 mile trail to Egumen
Lake. Because there are few designated hiking trails throughout Alaska, particularly in boreal
forest settings, the number of trails and diversity of habitats within the Skilak WRA makes it a
unique destination point for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Table 3.5. Trails
Name Vegetative Communities and Age Classes Length
(one-way)
Bear Mountain Closed deciduous forest, open mixed forest, closed tall scrub;
mostly 20-39 yrs old, some >60 yrs old
0.8
Burney’s Closed deciduous forest, closed mixed forest; <39 yrs old 0.6
Egumen Lake Open needleleaf forest; <19 yrs old 0.3
Hidden Creek Open needleleaf forest, woodland needleleaf forest, closed
deciduous forest, dry forb herbaceous; <39 yrs old
1.3
Hideout
Mountain
Closed deciduous forest, open mixed forest, closed tall scrub;
<15 yrs old
0.75
Kenai River
(East)
Closed needleleaf forest, closed deciduous forest, open
deciduous forest, closed mixed forest; <39 yrs old
2.8
Kenai River
(West)
Open deciduous forest, closed mixed forest, closed tall scrub;
<39 yrs old
2.3
Seven Lakes Closed needleleaf forest, open mixed forest; <39 yrs old,
some >60 yrs old
4.4
Seven Lakes
Spur
Open mixed forest; <39 yrs old, some >60 yrs old 1.0
Skilak Lookout Closed deciduous forest, closed mixed forest; <39 yrs old 2.0
Skyline Open deciduous forest, closed mixed forest, closed tall scrub;
>60 yrs old
1.9
Vista Closed mixed forest; <39 yrs old 1.5
6
Rivers and Lakes
Rivers and lakes provide access to large portions of the Skilak WRA where scenic/wildlife
viewing can be enjoyed (Table 3.6). The most popular river on the refuge (and possibly
throughout the entire state) for outdoor recreation activities is the Kenai River. The river flows
eighteen (18) river miles from Kenai Lake to Skilak Lake, and then on for another fifty (50) river
miles before entering into the Cook Inlet. It flows for nearly twelve (12) river miles through
Kenai Refuge; seven of which, as the eastern boundary of the Skilak WRA. Users typically put
their crafts in at the Cooper Landing boat launch (Sterling Highway MP 48), Sportsman’s Lodge
51
(Sterling Highway MP 55), or Jim’s Landing (Skilak Loop Road MP 58) and float to either Jim’s
Landing or through the Kenai River Canyon to Skilak Lake. Crafts are towed, motored or
paddled (note: paddling rafts or other small crafts is not advised due to high wind conditions on
the lake) around Skilak Lake to the Upper Skilak Lake Campground boat launch. Nearly 7,000
crafts and 25,000 visitors floated the upper river section for either fishing or scenic viewing
pleasure in 2004. Nearly 2,000 visitors floated through the Kenai River Canyon to Skilak Lake
that same year with nearly two thirds of them specifically doing so for scenic viewing purposes.
Table 3.6. Easily Accessible Lakes
Lake Name Area
(acres)
Boat Launch
Provided
No Wake
Restriction
Applies
Bottenintnin 262 Yes Yes
Egumen 82 Yes No
Engineer 225 Yes Yes
Hidden 1,597 Yes No
Kelly 146 Yes Yes
Lower Jean 113 Yes Yes
Lower Ohmer 116 Yes Yes
Peterson 92 Yes Yes
Rock 19 No No
Skilak 24,512 Yes No
Upper Ohmer 20 Yes Yes
Watson 58 Yes Yes
7
3.3.5 Public Uses and Related Facilities
Overview
The Skilak WRA contains a wide variety of public use facilities that directly or indirectly
provide services for a multitude of outdoor recreation opportunities year-round including cross
country skiing, fishing, hunting, photography, snowshoeing, and scenic and wildlife viewing
(Figure 3.6, Table 3.7). Construction and/or rehabilitation of these facilities began in the late
1980’s as directed by the Refuge’s Public Use Facilities Step-Down Management Plan as
funding was available.
Current Uses and Facilities
Administrative Facilities
One (1) administrative facility is located in the Skilak WRA; a 600-square foot log cabin at MP
13.5 along the Skilak Loop Road which is used for seasonal employee housing, and storage of
maintenance equipment and supplies during the summer.
0-6
53
Table 3.7. Access to Public Use Facilities
Facility Type Sterling
Highway
Skilak
Loop Rd.
Total
Administrative 0 1 1
Boat Launches 4 7 11
Bulletin Boards / Kiosks 7 14 21
Cabins 0 2 2
Campgrounds 4 5 9
Campsites (“Walk-in”) 0 14 14
Day Use Area 0 3 3
Interpretive Sites 0 9 9
Parking Areas 5 13 18
Sanitary Facility Sites 5 8 13
Signs 7 12 19
Trails 2 9 11
Viewing Facilities 0 1 1
Visitor Contact Station 1 0 1
Wayside Pullout 0 3 3
8
Boating and Boat Launches
There are eleven (11) boat launches in the Skilak WRA. Nine (9) of these are located in
campgrounds (Table 3.8) and two (2) are located in day-use areas (i.e., Bottenintnin Lake and
Jim’s Landing). Boat launches vary in construction from simple, one vessel-capable gravel or
dirt ramps, to concrete, two vessel-capable ramps. Motorboat use is allowed on all lakes within
the Skilak WRA, Skilak Lake, and the Kenai River downstream of Skilak Lake; some lakes have
a “no wake” restriction to minimize disturbance to water birds. Canoes, rafts, and kayaks are
unrestricted on all waterbodies. Personal watercraft (i.e., jet skis) are not allowed on any waters
within the Refuge.
Cabins
Two public use cabins are available by reservation only: Upper Ohmer Lake and Engineer Lake
cabins. These 800-square foot cabins were built in 2004 – 2005. Approximately 341 visitors
have used these cabins since their construction in August 2004.
Campgrounds
There are nine (9) campgrounds containing ninety-three (93) vehicle sites in the Skilak WRA
(Table 3.8). Eight (8) campgrounds have potable water available and two (2) campgrounds have
a user fee associated with them.
54
Table 3.8. Campgrounds
Location MP Number
of Sites
Potable
Water
Boat
Launch
Fee (per
night)
Engineer Lake 9.4 3 Yes Gravel Free
Hidden Lake 3.6 44 Yes Concrete $10.00
Kelly Lake 67.0
(Sterling
Highway)
3 Yes Gravel Free
Lower Jean Lake 60.0
(Sterling
Highway)
3 Yes Gravel Free
Lower Ohmer Lake 8.5 4 No Gravel Free
Lower Skilak Lake 13.6 14 Yes Concrete Free
Peterson Lake 67.0
(Sterling
Highway)
4 Yes Gravel Free
Upper Skilak Lake 8.4 15 Yes Concrete $8 - $10.00
Watson Lake 71.0
(Sterling
Highway)
3 Yes Gravel Free
9
Campsites (Backcountry & Walk-In)
There are fourteen (14) “walk-in” campsites located at two (2) campgrounds: Lower Ohmer
Lake Campground (4 sites) and Upper Skilak Lake Campground (10 sites). The Lower Ohmer
Campground walk-in campsites have defined gravel pads containing campfire rings and concrete
picnic tables. These sites are accessible via a short foot path from the parking area. The Upper
Skilak Campground walk-in campsites are located along a loop trail beginning at the parking lot.
Amenities are the same as the ones at Lower Ohmer Lake. A gull/cormorant colony on a rock
outcropping in Skilak Lake is an added attraction at this site.
Although the majority of camping occurs at campgrounds and designated “walk-in” sites
associated with campgrounds, “backcountry” camping is allowed and occurs at undesignated
sites along trails (particularly the Kenai River and Seven Lakes trails), gravel bars along the
Kenai River, the shoreline of Skilak Lake, and islands in Hidden Lake. Although some of these
undesignated campsites show signs of impact, the impact is not believed to be detrimental to
refuge resources at this point in time, and as such, have not been treated to ensure resource
protection.
Commercial Services
Commercial (or guided) services are provided in the Skilak WRA. These services are typically
associated with sport fishing on the Kenai River, but hiking and tour guides also provide
services. Guides authorized to offer their services must obtain a special use permit from the
Refuge and are subject to the requirements of the permit’s general and special conditions.
Permitted guides operating on the upper and lower Kenai River utilize the boat ramps at Jim’s
55
Landing, and the Upper and Lower Skilak campgrounds. Other permitted guides use various
hiking trails and campgrounds. There are approximately sixty (60) permittees using the facilities
and resources in the Skilak WRA.
Day Use Areas
There are three (3) day use areas located within the Skilak WRA: Bottenintnin Lake, Jims’
Landing, and Lower Ohmer Lake. Bottenintnin Lake is primarily used by canoeists and cross-country
skiers, and Jims’ Landing is primarily used as a takeout for those floating the Upper
Kenai River. Lower Ohmer Lake day use area was created in 2006 and is associated with a
campground. Each site has a boat ramp. Jims Landing and Lower Ohmer Lake have sanitary
facilities. All day use areas have bulletin boards/kiosks associated with them except Bottenintnin
Lake.
Environmental Education & Interpretation Facilities
Environmental Education and Interpretation facilities consists of a variety of structures (e.g.,
bulletin boards, kiosks, and panels) which are used to provide information on wildlife and their
habitats, resource management practices, and other information which increases visitor
knowledge about the Refuge.
Amphitheater
One (1) 50-seat amphitheater is located at the Hidden Lake Campground. Interpretive programs
are offered from June thru August.
Birdhouse Bulletin Boards
Small informational structures, or birdhouse bulletin boards, are located at all eleven (11)
trailheads in the Skilak WRA (Table 3.9).
Table 3.9. Location of Birdhouse Bulletin Boards (BBB), Interpretive Panels (IP), and Kiosks (K)
Location Type Location Type
Bear Mountain Trail BBB Kenai River Trail (West) BBB, IP
Burney’s Trail BBB Lower Jean Lake Campground K
Egumen Lake Trail BBB Lower Ohmer Lake Campground K
Engineer Lake Campground K Lower Skilak Campground K, IP
Engineer Lake Wayside IP Peterson Lake Campground K
Hidden Creek Trail BBB Pothole Lake Fire Wayside IP
Hidden Creek Wayside IP Seven Lakes Trail (Engineer Lake
& Kelly Lake)
BBB
Hidden Lake Campground K, IP Skilak Lookout Trail BBB
Hideout Mountain Trail BBB Skyline Trail BBB
Jim’s Landing Day Use Area K, IP Vista Trail BBB
Kelly Lake Campground BBB Upper Skilak Lake Campground K, IP
Kenai River Trail (East) K, IP West Entrance K
10
56
Interpretive Panels
There are thirty-four (34) interpretive panels located at nine (9) sites within the Skilak WRA
(Table 3.9).
Kiosks
Large information structures, or kiosks, are located at seven (7) campgrounds, one (1) day use
area, one (1) trailhead, and the West Entrance (Table 3.9).
Environmental Education & Interpretation Programs
Environmental education (EE) is an education process that deals with the interrelationships
among the natural world and its man-made surroundings. It is experienced-based and
interdisciplinary in nature. It is a continuous, lifelong process that provides citizens with the
basic knowledge and skills necessary to individually and collectively encourage positive actions
for achieving and maintaining a sustainable balance between humans and their environment
(North American Association for Environmental Education). Interpretation is a communication
process that forges emotional and intellectual connections between the interests of the audience
and the meanings inherent in the resource (National Association of Interpretation).
Refuge staff and interns conduct a number of environmental education programs throughout the
Skilak WRA including “The Role of Fire in Alaska” where students hike the Hidden Creek Trail
to explore a re-vegetating burn site, and “Leave No Trace” where students learn the seven (7)
Leave No Trace principles through hands-on activities on the Seven Lakes Trail. Environmental
education programs typically are conducted in the spring and fall. The following is a
representation of the number of participants attending all Refuge EE programs: 1,863 (2003);
2,276 (2004); 2,630 (2005).
Refuge staff and interns interpret refuge resources to citizens with the desire to intrigue and
motivate them so that they will go on to learn more about and take actions to protect those
resources. Each summer, interpretive programs are offered at the Hidden Lake and Upper Skilak
Lake campgrounds. Additional interpretive programs are offered through “Discovery Hikes” on
Burney’s and Vista trails. Examples of subject matter include “Bear Safety” and “Survivor:
Techniques and Strategies to Help You Survive in the Alaskan Outdoors.” The following is a
representation of participants attending all Refuge Interpretive Programs: 1,457 (2003); 1,274
(2004); 1,174 (2005).
Outreach Materials and Media for Visitor Orientation
The Refuge provides flyers and brochures that identify the location of public use facilities
including cabins, points of interest, and common wildlife species. In addition, the Refuge,
through a cooperative effort with the Alaska Natural History Association, produces “Refuge
Reflections” – a newspaper-style publication that provides more comprehensive information on
facilities and recreational opportunities throughout the Refuge including the Skilak WRA.
Fishing
Fishing occurs on the Kenai River and on every lake in the Skilak WRA that has harvestable
populations (Table 3.10). Highly sought after species include sockeye salmon, Coho salmon,
kokanee, and lake trout.
57
Table 3.10. Sport Fish By Location
Waterbody Coho Sockeye King Pink White-fish
Rainbow
Trout
Lake
Trout
Dolly
Varden
Artic
Grayling
Lnose
Sucker
N.
Pike
Egumen X X X X
Engineer X X X
Hidden Creek X X X
Hidden Lake X X X X
Kelly X X
Kenai X X X X X X X X
L. Jean X X X X X X
L. Ohmer X
Peterson X X X X
Skilak X X X X X X X X X
U. Ohmer X X X
Watson X X X
11
Human Health and Safety (Firearm Use)
To provide for public safety, discharging firearms within a ¼-mile of designated public
campgrounds, trailheads, waysides, buildings, or the Sterling Highway from the east refuge
boundary to the east junction of the Skilak Loop Road is not permitted by refuge regulation
(Figure 3.7).
Hunting
Cow Moose Hunt
To fulfill public use and resource protection goals in the Skilak WRA, a permitted, antlerless
moose hunt is allowed when the results of a fall survey (conducted cooperatively between
ADF&G and Kenai NWR every other year at a minimum if snow cover is adequate) tallies at
least 130 animals (1.8 – 2.0 moose per square mile of habitat) (Figure 3.8). These surveys have
been conducted since 1989.
Over the course of 11 separate surveys, overall moose counts have ranged from a high of 225
during the 1994-95 season, to a low of 79 during the recent 2005-06 season. The average count
has been about 145 moose. Because of the survey methods used, these data should be interpreted
cautiously; they represent annual “snapshots” of moose within the Skilak WRA rather than
reliable estimates of the number of moose that reside in or rely on the WRA and adjacent
habitats.
ADF&G issued cow moose harvest permits in all but one season (1996-97) during the period
1989-2000. No permits have been issued since 2000. From 1989 through 1993, 20 permits were
issued each season (80 permits total) and about 44% of active permit recipients (those that
actually that hunted) harvested a moose. Thirty-two (32) moose were harvested during this four
year period. Over the remaining six permitted years (1993-2000) between 20 and 60 permits
0-7
59
were issued each season and the harvest success rate dropped to about 26 percent. Fifty (50)
moose were harvested during this period.
0-8
Bull Moose Hunt
A permitted spike-fork bull hunt is allowed when aerial composition surveys conducted each
year before December 1 indicate the bull:cow ratio is greater than 40:100. On three occasions
(1994, 1996, and 1998) the observed bull/cow ratio exceeded 40:100 allowing a spike-fork bull
hunt during the season following these surveys. Twenty (20) of the 60 total permits issued in
each of these seasons were for the special spike-fork bull hunt. A total of two spike-fork bulls
were harvested (one each in 1995-96 and 1997-98).
Moose Hunt Summary
Overall, more than 300 hunting permits were issued and 83 moose (or 8.3 moose/year on
average) were harvested during the 10 year period permits were issued in the Skilak WRA. There
is no clear relationship between overall moose survey numbers and the number of permits issued
or harvest success rates.
Small Game Hunting
A small game harvest is allowed by bow and arrow between October 1 and March 1 each year.
There is no data on the number of individuals participating in this activity or the number of
animals harvested.
Figure 3.8. Moose Population, Permit, and Harvest Data
157
162
126
225
136
175
164
98
79
169
20
30
60
40
60
30
20 20 20
8 10 13
130 Minimum Population Threshold
11
8 8
6
11
7
0
50
100
150
200
250
Year 1989-
90
1990-
91
1991-
92
1992-
93
1993-
94
1994-
95
1995-
96
1996-
97
1997-
98
1998-
99
1999-
00
2000-
01
2001-
02
2002-
03
2003-
04
2004-
05
2005-
06
Total Moose Surveyed Number of Permits Issued Number of Moose Harvested 130 Minimum Population Threshold
60
Fur Animals and Bear Hunting
Fur animals and bears can not be harvested in the Skilak WRA.
Parking Areas
In addition to vehicle parking provided at campgrounds for campers, parking areas are provided
at eighteen (18) additional locations within the Skilak WRA: eight (8) areas are located at
trailheads, four (4) areas are located at day use areas, and six (6) areas are associated with boat
launches and trailheads within campgrounds (Table 3.11).
Table 3.11. Parking Areas
Location No. of
Vehicle
Sites
Location No. of
Vehicle
Sites
Bear Mountain Trail 3 Kenai River Trail (East) 18
Bottenintnin Lake Day Use
Area
6 Kenai River Trail (West) 4
Egumen Lake Trail 6 Lower Ohmer Lake Day Use
Area
3
Engineer Lake Campground 3 Lower Skilak Campground 50
Hidden Creek Trail 8 Peterson Lake Campground 3
Hidden Lake Campground 36 Skilak Lookout Trail 10
Hideout Mountain Trail 4 Skyline Trail 10
Jim’s Landing Day Use Area 18 Upper Skilak Campground 24
Kelly Lake Campground 3 Watson Lake Day Use Area 3
12
Photography
Scenic and wildlife photography opportunities are abundant in the Skilak WRA due to the nature
of the topography, the variety and abundance of natural features, habitats and wildlife, and road
accessibility. Photographing scenic views typically occurs along the Skilak Loop Road,
particularly at designated waysides, but also from trail vistas, views provided at campgrounds,
and from lakes (Table 3.13). Although there are no designated wildlife photography sites or
facilities provided to enhance wildlife photography opportunities (e.g., photography blinds),
wildlife can be commonly seen at specific locations with the Skilak WRA (Table 3.14).
Commonly seen and photographed wildlife include moose, black bears, beaver, and a wide
variety of birds including eagles, ravens, gray jays, and passerines.
Sanitary Facilities
There are twenty-one (21) concrete sanitary units and two (2) dump stations located at thirteen
(13) locations within the Skilak WRA (Table 3.12). Sanitary unit vaults are serviced when
approximately 80% full; interiors are cleaned and serviced daily in fee campgrounds and at least
weekly at other sites during periods of heaviest use; unit servicing and interior cleaning at other
times of the year are performed on an as-needed basis. The dump stations located at Hidden Lake
Campground and at MP 11.5 are provided for recreational vehicles or trailers with self-contained
sanitary systems.
61
Table 3.12. Sanitary Facilities
Location Number