wild and scenic river...

Rx-2 . Wild and Scenic River Prescription (cont 'd)

GENERAL DIRECTION STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES

Allow non-Federal uses having Issue permits for a c t i v i t i e s with public benefi t (16b). public benefi t i f compatible with

other direct ion herein, but do not allow transportation corr idors (including u t i l i t y systems) within the Wild and Scenic Zones.

F i r e and Fuels

Use fire suppression s t ra tegy and t a c t i c s t h a t least alter the landscape or disturb the land surface (18a).

Wild Zones Reduce preventable man-cause wi ldf i re (18b).

Conform t o prohibit ion of motorized equipment i n the Wild Zone if r i sks are acceptable (18b).

All Zones: Undertake no pre-suppression ac t iv i ty tha t s ign i f icant ly dis turbs the land surface.

Obli terate incident camps, hel ispots , evidence of and damage from vehicles, and o the r disturbance resu l t ing from emergency suppression action.

Contact v i s i t o r s or use warning media outside the Wild Zone.

Obtain p r io r approval of the Forest Supervisor f o r emergency use of the following suppression ac t iv i t i e s :

Heliport or he l i spot construction,

Retardant, other than short- term or fugitive-dye,

Wheeled vehicles, Pumps, generators, e t c . , Chainsaws, for other than

d i r ec t suppression, Dozers.

Scenic Zones Reduce preventable human-caused Emphasize v i s i t o r contact and wi ldf i re (18b). minimize erect ion of posters .

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Rx-2 . Wild and Scenic River Prescription (cont'd)


Minimize disturbance t o the land Obtain approval from the Forest surface from re ta rdant (18a). Supervisor f o r emergency use

of other than short-term or fugitive-dye retardants.

Forest Pests

Control fo re s t pes t s thru a site- See Forestwide Standards and spec i f i c approach ( l9a) . Guidelines.

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Rx-3 . Feather Falls Scenic Area Prescription

Description: Regional Forester, and t h i s prescription continues management pr inc ipa l ly fo r scenic value and recreation use. Other uses w i l l continue t o be allowed i f they are compatible with t h i s objective. provides f o r recommending tha t Feather Fa l l s be declared a National Natural Landmark. PNF .

The Scenic Area w a s f i r s t established i n 1965 by the

The prescr ipt ion also

This area is a formal "Special In t e re s t Area" of the


Recreation

Provide dispersed recreation ( la ) . Maintain ROS classes of Roaded Natural and Semi-primitive Non- motorized as mapped i n the Planning Records.

Manage the Bald Rock unroaded area according t o Rx-8.

Manage those lands within the Wild and Scenic River boundary according t o Rx-2.

Recommend designation of Feather Fa l l s as a National Natural Land- mark.

Interpret the cu l tura l , ecologic, and geologic features fo r the public.

Maintain and improve developed recreation sites ( la ) .

Employ Rx-6 at the Feather F a l l s Trailhead and at Milsap B a r Campground.

Construct recreation fac i l i t i es only t o meet safety and sanita- t ion needs, but i n t e rp re t cul- t u r a l , ecological, and geologic features fo r the public.

Allow ORV's wherever user conf l ic t Close a l l trails t o motorized or resource damage is unlikely ( l b ) . use.

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Rx-3 . Feather Falls Scenic Area Prescription (cont'd)


Visual Resources

Maintain high Visual Quality Objectives (2a) .

Cultural Resources

Protect s i g n i f i c a n t cu l tura l properties, and i n t e r p r e t selected sites (3a).

Timber

To protect scenic and recrea- t ional values, use appropriate special cu t t i ng methods fo r unscheduled y i e l d s without forest regulation (7b&c).

Minerals and Materials

Protect the unique scenic values (134.

Energy

Preclude hydroe lec t r ic development if al l resources cannot be reason- ably protected ( l5a).

Meet VQO of Retention.

Assure tha t new o r reconstructed roads meet the VQO of retention.

Conduct a long-term inventory and appraisal program. Interpret Maidu mythology concerning Fea- ther Fal ls and Bald Rock Canyon. Interpret t rad i t iona l Maidu use of the area fo r salmon trade.

Identify and protect Wagner Trading Post. Develop in te r - pretation compatible with protec- t ion.

Harvest timber only when the scenic quali ty can be maintained or improved, or t o prevent disease or insect epidemic.

Request withdrawal from mineral entry.

Maintain the natural f ree flowing condition of F a l l River.

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Rx-3 . Feather Falls Scenic Area Prescription (cont'd)


Lands Acquire areas crucial to recreation management (16a).

Fire and Fuels

Reduce preventable human-caused wildfire (18b).

Use fire suppression strategies and tactics that least alter the landscape or disturb the land surface (18b).

Forest Pests

Control forest pests thru a site specific approach (19a).

Law Enforcement

Protect resources and forest visitors according to law.

Retain existing federal ownership. Acquire those lands necessary to protect recreational and scenic quality.

Emphasize visitor contacts.

Use a strategy of "Control" in a manner to minimize landscape al- teration and land disturbance.

Obtain prior approval from the Forest Supervisor for emergency use of other than short-term or fugitive-dye retardents.

Undertake no pre-suppression activity that disturbs the land surface.

Obliterate incident camps, helispots, evidence of and damage from vehicles, and other disturbance resulting from emergency suppression action.

See Forestwide Standards and Guidelines.

Provide active law enforcement commensurate with use to prevent vandalism at the Feather Falls trailhead.

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Rx-4 . Challenge Experimental Forest Prescription

Description: The Challenge Experimental Forest, a field facility of the Pacific Southwest Forest and Range Experiment Station, is located on the La Porte Ranger District. It was established to allow experimentation and demonstration for the development of a scientific basis for management of second-growth pine, mixed conifer, and associated hardwood species. Lands within the Experimental Forest do not contribute to the regulated timber base of the PNF, but timber harvested for station projects is part of the PNF timber program.

Administrative responsibilities for the Experimental Forest are divided between the Station Director and the Regional Forester. responsible for planning and executing research, and determining if any proposed uses are compatible with research objectives. Forester is responsible for protection of the Experimental Forest and for the development and maintenance of improvements that serve the general public.

The Director is

The Regional


PSW : Conduct experimental and demon- Generally, Forest Standards and stration projects to develop Guidelines apply, except devia- the silvicultural basis for management of second-growth pine, mixed conifer and associated hardwood species. Conduct other research, as

-

tions for particular experimental or demonstration purposes.

appropriate.

PNF:

Recreation

Encourage only recreation patible with PSW projects

-

com- Prohibit ORV use. (la).

Dispersed recreation will be limited to activities compatible with PSW projects.

Visual

Maintain visual quality objectives Maintain visual quality objec- (24. tives compatible with research

activities.

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Rx-4 . Challenge Experimental Forest Prescription (cont 'd)


Timber

Obtain unscheduled yields resulting from PSW projects (7b&c).

Stock understocked stands in the experimental Forest (7b&c).


Protect experimental forest opportunities (l3a) .

Energy

Subordinate fuelwood supply to site production needs (15b).

Facilities

Manage transportation system in support of PSW activities (174.

Sell, by competitive bid, commercial quantities of timber from PSW experimental and demonstration projects.

Salvage timber in coordination with PSW.

Convert understocked to full- stocked stands including seed tree removal, as outlined in a PSW letter of 1/18/83 from Robert J. Laake. Close all skid trails and temporary roads after use.

Recommend continuance of the existing withdrawal of the Experimental Forest from mineral entry.

Issue no personal use wood permits for experimental Forest lands, except those approved by PSW.

Allow access to private develop- ments where such access will not inhibit management of the Experimental Forest.

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Rx-5 . Recreation Area Prescription

Description: well-maintained landscapes around the major reservoirs and within other areas of major recreat ion use. Recreation Areas:

The purpose of t h i s prescription is t o provide a t t rac t ive ,

The Forest contains the following

Recreation Area Acres Management Area

Antelope Lake Bucks Lake Bu t t Valley Reservoir Lake Davis Frenchman Lake L a k e s Basin L i t t l e Grass Valley Round Valley Sly Creek North Fork Feather River S i lve r Lake

Total 230 48,500

29 5

2; 37 42

34,35 13.15

27 13 20 21


Recreation

Control dispersed recreat ion ( la ) . Maintain a ROS class of "Roaded Natural. "

Control camping. overflow area occupancy, and fuelwood and miscellaneous Forest products removal consistent with the ROS class and the VQO.

Restrict vehic le use and prohib i t Restrict wheeled vehicles t o off road use ( la&b) . designated routes.

Provide in t e rp re t ive services t o Where appropriate, create short meet demand ( l a ) . loop trails I n diverse fores t

environments. Include ties t o developed s i t e s , nearby roads, and ex is t ing trails, and extend beyond the Recreation Area i f desirable.

Expand the in te rpre t ive signing program.

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Rx-5 . Recreation Area Prescription (cont 'd)

~~


Visual

Maintain high visual quali ty objectives (2a).

Cultural Resources

Protect and interpret signficant resources (3a) .

Range

Subordinate livestock grazing t o recreation use (6a) .

Timber

Except i n the Lakes Basin Recreation Area, obtain scheduled timber yields while maintaining a generally continuous forest cover (7b&c).

To protect recreation values, generally harvest no timber from the Lakes Basin Recreation Area.


Protect recreational values (l3a). from mineral entry.

Lands

Acquire lands crucial t o recreation management (16a) .

Meet mapped, adopted V Q O ' s (see Forestwide Standards and Guide- l i nes ) which vary from site t o site.

Develop in te rpre t ive exhibi ts a t appropriate sites tha t typify cul tures , l i f e s t y l e s , and events of the Northern Sierra .

Locate salt and watering sources away from areas of s ign i f icant recreation use.

Develop and implement select ion systems t h a t maintain a generally continuous fo re s t cover and main- t a i n or enhance recreation values.

Harvest no timber, except as allowed under Pest Management Standards and Guidelines.

Recommend withdrawal or continuance of withdrawal from mineral entry.

Acquire those lands necessary t o protect visual qual i ty , open

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Rx-5 . Recreation Area Prescription (cont’d)


Forest Pests

Control fo re s t p e s t s thru a s i te -spec i f ic approach (19a).

I n the Lakes Basin Recreation Area, r e ly on n a t u r a l processes where adjacent resources are not threatened.

space, and recreation develop- ments and a c t i v i t i e s , or encourage pr iva te landowners t o provide compatible recreation develop- ments for public purposes.


Control insec t and disease epidemic only i f significant resources outside the area are threatened or an unnatural, s ign i f icant loss of recreation value w i l l occur.

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Rx-6 . Developed Recreation Site Prescription

Description: The purpose is t o provide convenient recreation f a c i l i t i e s fo r the public and t o preserve or improve the surrounding Forest. This prescription applies t o all developed sites, which are l i s t e d i n Appen- dix H. and t o future sites constructed according t o Management Area Direction. Sites include campgrounds, picnic areas, observation sites, boat launches, swimming beaches, t ra i lheads, and documentary, in te rpre t ive , and information sites.


Recreation

Improve and expand developed facilities t o meet demand ( l a ) .

Encourage privately-operated public recreation ( la ) .

Cultural Resources

Protect s ignif icant cul tural properties (3a).

In te rpre t selected N.R. sites (3a).

Manage t o an ROS class of Roaded Natural (RN). Administer facilities t o accomodate large numbers of motorized vehicles. Allow development scale Levels 11, 111, I V . and V , with 2 to 10 sites per acre.

Operate and maintain sites i n accordance with FSM 2330. Rehabili tate sites according t o Appendix L. and simultaneously i n s t a l l in te rpre t ive services .

Confine vehicle use t o i n t e r i o r roads and spurs. Allow ORV use of trails which lead t o adjacent off-road vehicle routes or accep- tab le cross-country areas.

T e s t maintenance and operation of developed sites by concession.

Protect cu l tura l resources at developed sites. Develop s t r a t eg ie s t o reduce vandalism.

Design and implement interpre- t i v e plans so t h a t v i s i t o r s may view signif icant properties.

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Rx-6 . Developed Recreation Site Prescription (cont'd)


Visual Resources

Provide a natural-appearing Forest se t t ing within t h e context of si te development (2a) .

Range

Subordinate l i ves tock grazing t o recreation use (6a).

Timber

To protect developed recreation site values, use appropriate special cu t t ing methods for unscheduled y i e lds without forest regulation (7b&c).

Water

Protect public h e a l t h by water use l imitations as needed.

Manage t o a VQO of "Partial Retention" as viewed from adjacent areas.

Keep recreation f a c i l i t i e s and roads within the site as unobtrusive as possible.

Plant and maintain vegetation t o provide screening and a natural-appearing se t t i ng which functionally and aesthet ical ly satisfies v is i tors .

Exclude livestock from developed recreation sites when confl ic ts occur. Provide l ivestock control planning around ex is t ing recrea- t i on s i t e s i n each Allotment Management Plan.

Maintain a healthy fores t cover.

Control swimming a t designated swimming beaches when monitoring shows water qual i ty below State objectives for water contact recreation.

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Rx-6 . Developed Recreation Site Prescription (cant 'd )



Protect the recreation value of Recommend withdrawal of a l l de- the si te (13a). veloped sites from mineral entry.

Forest Pests

Control fores t pests thru a See Forestwide Standards and s i te -spec i f ic approach (l9a). Guidelines.

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Rx-7 . Minimal Management Prescription

Description: The purpose of t h i s prescription is t o maintain existing physical cha rac t e r i s t i c s of cer ta in lands through low in tens i ty management. Areas managed under t h i s prescription include: I) non-forested lands, 2) non-productive fo re s t lands, 3) productive fores t lands t h a t are no t economical t o manage, 4) lands with substantial i n s t a b i l i t y problems (See Appendix S-EIS), 5) lands scheduled for exchange, and 6) ce r t a in lands with s ign i f icant scenic, geologic, ecologic, and c u l t u r a l resource values. This prescription applies t o 141,000 acres d i s t r ibu ted within 43 Management Areas.


Visual Resources

Maintain high v i sua l qua l i ty objectives (2a) .

Cultural Resources

Protect s i g n i f i c a n t cu l tu ra l properties (3a).

pange Maintain ex i s t ing range use (6a).

Timber

To pro tec t watershed condition, special i n t e r e s t areas, and lands scheduled fo r exchange, use appropriate spec ia l cu t t i ng methods f o r unscheduled y ie lds without fo re s t regulat ion (7b&c).

Meet mapped, adopted VQO's (see Forestwide Standards and Guidelines: VISUAL RESOURCES) which vary from site t o site.

Develop spec i f i c mitigation plans f o r exchange lands.

Maintain act ive allotments. Do not fill vacant allotments o r create new allotments.

A l l o w harvest of timber, fuelwood, and other products only i f :

- long term growth can be maintained,

- erosion and in s t ab i l i t y problems w i l l not be induced or aggravated,

ecologic, and s ignif icant cu l tu ra l resource values are protected,

- unique scenic, geologic,

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Rx-7 . Minimal Management Prescription (cont'd)


- no encumbrances are placed on lands scheduled for exchange.

Special Areas

Protect unique scenic, geologic, Manage those unique areas and ecologic values (2Ob). identified in the Management Area

Direction to protect or enhance their values.

Forests Pests

Control forest pests thru a See Forestwide Standards and site-specific approach (l9a). Guidelines.

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Rx-8. Semi-Primiie Area Prescription

Description: t o maintain a remote f o r e s t s e t t i n g and allow non-motorized, dispersed recreat ion. Act iv i t ies are permitted only i f they are unobtrusive and maintain the character of the area. The prescription applies t o the following roadless areas:

This prescr ipt ion applies t o essent ia l ly undisturbed areas

Roadless Areas Acreage lJ

Bald Rock Beartrap Chips Creek Dixon Creek Grizzly Peak Keddie Ridge Lakes Basin Middle Fork Thompson Peak

Tot a1

5,200 6,000

12,700 3,000 7bOOO 3 9 000

13,600 27,000 2,000

79,500

- 1/ Does not include Bucks Lake Wilderness and the Middle Fork Wild River acreage.


Recreation

Provide f o r dispersed recreation Manage a l l lands basical ly i n ( la ) . accordance with the ROS class

of SPNM.

Provide opportunities for activities such as hiking and walking, horseback r iding, viewing scenery, camping, hunting, nature study, mountain climbing, swimming, f ishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

Provide both hiking and horseback r id ing routes i n and t o the areas.

Provide a non-motorized experience Allow no motorized t rave l except ( l a ) . over-the-snow and management

access.

4-88

Rx-8 . Semi-Primitive Area Prescription (cont 'd)


Cultural Resources

Inventory important recreation areas (3a).

Visual Resources

Maintain high visual quali ty (2a)

Range

Maintain exis t ing use of act ive allotments (6c) .

Timber

To protect semi-primitive recreation values, use appropriate spec ia l cu t t ing methods (7b&c).


Provide reasonable protection of recreation resources ( l3a) .

F a c i l i t i e s

Preclude permanent road con- s t ruc t ion t o achieve recreation goals ( l7a).

Develop a long range inventory and appraisal program.

Meet a VQO of "Retention", but provide adequate treatment of damage from catastrophic events.

Manage according t o Forestwide Standards and Guidelines.

Harvest timber only f o r salvage purposes, t o remove safety hazards, or i f visual experiences are enhanced. Obtain approval of the Forest Supervisor for any timber harvest. Construct only temporary roads if needed f o r salvage operations.

Allow mineral development with r e s t r i c t ions tha t minimize the loss of recreat ional value.

Allow facil i t ies only after an analysis determines tha t the es- e s t i a l l y undisturbed character of the area can be retained.

4-89

Rx-8 . Semi-Primitive Area Prescription (cant ' d)


Fi re and Fuels

U s e prescr ibed f i r e t o enhance wi ld l i fe h a b i t a t o r reduce high r i s k of wi ldf i re (18a).

Reduce preventable human-caused wildf i re (18b).

Use fire suppression strategy and tactics t h a t least alter the landscape or d is turb the land surface (18b).

Forest Pests

Rely on na tu ra l processes where adjacent resources a re not threatened (19a).

Maintain the semi-primitive character of the area when prescribed f i re i s employed t o enhance wi ld l i fe habi ta t , o r t o reduce fire hazard.

Contact v i s i t o r s or use warning media outside the area.

Undertake no pre-suppression ac t iv i ty t h a t s ignif icant ly disturbs the land surface.

Obliterate incident camps, helispots, evidence of and damage from vehicles, and other dis tur- bance resu l t ing from emergency f i r e suppression action.

Control i n sec t and disease epidemic only i f s ignif icant resources outs ide of the area are threatened or an unnatural, s ign i f icant loss of semi- primitive character w i l l occur.

4-90

Rx-9. Riparian Area Prescription

Description: as unique ecosystems and t o protect and improve them while implementing land and resource management ac t iv i t ies . i n re la t ion t o various legal mandates, including those associated with floodplains, wetlands, r ivers , and cul tural resources. Emphasis w i l l be given t o the protection and improvement of s o i l , water, vegetation, and f i s h and wildl i fe resources. riparian-dependent resources when confl ic ts occur among land use a c t i v i t i e s . Riparian areas consist of r ipar ian ecosystems, aquatic ecosystems, and wetlands. This prescription applies t o approximately 45,000 acres scat tered throughout the Forest. The Water Forestwide Standards and Guidelines are especially applicable to the r ipar ian areas and provide an important supplement t o t h i s prescription.

The purpose of t h i s prescription i s t o manage r ipar ian areas

Riparian areas are t o be managed

Preferential consideration w i l l be given t o


Recreation

Protect r ipar ian areas while providing developed f a c i l i t i e s ( la. 9 4 .

Locate any new developed recrea- t ion sites outside of r ipar ian areas unless an analysis shows tha t overal l impacts would be minimized by locat ing the si te i n a r ipar ian area.

Wildlife and Fish

Assure adequate protection fo r wi ld l i fe and f i s h resources (5a) .


Range

Improve ranges and implement gra- Develop objectives and u t i l i z a t i o n zing systems t o protect r ipar ian standards i n Allotment Management areas, and restore them where Plans fo r vegetation management needed (6c). based on the needs of riparian-

dependent resources and water quali ty.

Select and implement grazing systems tha t allow fo r the maintenance of r ipar ian vegetation now i n good condition and the

4-91

Rx-9 . Riparian Area Prescription (cont'd)


Timber

Manage timber t o ensure protect ion of r ipar ian areas (7b&c, 9a)

Assure an adequate water supply for PNF and instream needs (ga, loa) .

Protect l i f e and property from flooding and stream channel degra- dation where t h r e a t is moderate t o high (9a, lob) .

improvement of r ipar ian vegetation i n unsatisfactory condition. Favor riparian-dependent resources and water quali ty over livestock grazing when conf l ic t s ar ise .

Monitor the condition and trend of streamside areas as an integral par t of each allotment management plan.

Allow only vegetation removal within r ipar ian areas tha t benefits riparian-dependent resources, controls insects and diseases, protects public safety, or f a c i l i t a t e s timber harvest ac t iv i t i e s on adjacent lands (i.e. cable corridors or designated stream crossings).

Manage flows and/or reservoir storage t o maintain or enhance r ipar ian plant communities and habi ta t for a l l l i f e stages of f ish. Cooperate with loca l , State , and other Federal water management agencies.

Preserve natural r ipar ian flood- control a b i l i t i e s . Remove only those log jams or major debris accumulations t h a t have a high potential of causing channel damage, block f i s h passage, or could be transported downstream by high flows and cause loss of property.

4-92

Rx-9 . Riparian Area Prescription (cont 'd)


Through cooperation with the S ta te Department of Fish & Game insure t h a t stream al te ra t ions restore the or ig ina l flow capa- c i t y while preserving the ex is t ing channel alignment.

Comply with Executive Orders 11988, Floodplain Management. and 11990, Protection of Wetlands.

Protect r iparian resources during Prohibit the use, handling, or storage and use of fuels and storage of any hazardous material hazardous materials (9a). within r ipar ian areas unless no

other a l t e rna t ive is avai lable and su i tab le containment s t ruc- tures and s p i l l cleanup contin- gency plans have been approved by the Forest Service.

Protect r iparian resources from Require r ipa r i an area protective a c t i v i t i e s not d i rec t ly related t o Forest Service management c ia1 use permits f o r non-PNF a c t i v i t i e s (9a, 16b). ac t iv i t i e s .


Promote only mineral and common Ensure t h a t Notices of In ten t and var ie ty materials operations tha t Plans of Operations f u l l y address protect r iparian resources (9a, r ipar ian values.

measures i n a l l applicable spe-

1 3 4 . Minimize adverse impacts t o r ipar ian resources through appro- pr ia te mitigation s t ipu la t ions i n operating plans, permits, and leases coordinated with applica- b le S ta t e and Federal agencies.

4-93

Rx-9 . Riparian Area Prescription (cont'd)


Energy

Fac i l i t a te hydroelectric development tha t provides protection of riparian resources (ga, 154 .

Lands

Assure protection of r ipar ian areas during land exchanges (ga. 16a).

Require proponents t o coordinate with the PNF i n analysis of i n stream flow needs for a l l poten- t i a l l y affected riparian- dependent resources.

Meet land exchange requirements of Executive Orders 11988, Floodplain Management. and 11990, Protection of Wetlands.

Fac i l i t i e s

Minimize the impact of roads on water quality and r ipar ian areas (9a. 1 7 4 .

Adjust road design and location, or use permanent or seasonal clo- sures , t o avoid or minimize i m - pacts t o riparian-dependent resources.

Manage roads at the standards necessary t o provide r ipar ian resource protection.

Provide for f i s h passage and main- t a i n natural channel character a t stream crossings. On Class I and I1 streams, use bridges, open bottom arches, and low water crossings unless an analysis shows t h a t another s t ructure is best.

Design cofferdams t o minimize sedimentation to watercourses.

Take care during construction and removal of c r ibs , cofferdams, sheet pi l ings, e tc . t o minimize sedimentation t o streams.

4-94

Rx- 10 . Visual Retention Prescription

Description: landscape. Management ac t iv i t i e s are not visual ly evident. The prescription w i l l be applied to areas with a Visual Quality Objective (VQO) of Retention. Such areas are seen from key t rave l corridors, water bodies, and other high use areas (see Appendix K). No management ac t iv i t i e s are prohibited i n these areas. expected.

This prescription w i l l provide for a natural-appearing

Only marginal timber yields are


Visual Resources

Maintain high visual quali ty (2a). Employ a VQO of "Ret'ention" through application of landscape management principles and techniques described i n the National Forest Landscape Management series l i s t e d i n Appendix K.

Provide a natural-appearing landscape where management and other activit ies are generally not evident t o the casual forest v i s i t o r .

Timber

Obtain scheduled timber yields through longer rotat ions and smaller openings, or uneven-age systems tha t meet a VQO of Retention (7b&c).

Forest Pests

Control Forest pests on a site specif ic basis (19a).

On lands capable of producing 50 cubic feet/acre/year (CMAI), e m - ploy a l l s i l v i cu l tu ra l systems and harvest mebhods as appropriate provided landscape management pr inciples and techniques are ap- pl ied to achieve a VQO of Retention.

On the less productive timber lands (20-49 ft /ac/yr CMAI) main- t a i n a generally continuous fores t cover thru uneven-aged systems t h a t achieve a VQO of Retention.


4-95

Rx-11 . Bald Eagle Habitat Prescription

Description: eagle hab i t a t t o encourage species recovery. h i s t o r i c a l nest ing t e r r i t o r i e s , 2) sui table hab i t a t for population expansion, and 3) foraging and roosting habi ta t . S i te - specific d i rec t ion is i n the Management Area Direction. a reas are i n the Planning Records.

This prescription applies t o occupied and potential bald These areas consist of 1)

Detailed maps of the application


Recreation

L i m i t recreat ion use i n bald eagle Close the areas t o ORV use. h a b i t a t ( l a ) .

Preclude development of recreation f a c i l i t i e s within the nesting t e r r i t o r i e s .

Wildl i fe , Fish, and Sensi t ive P l a n t s

Encourage species recovery (5a). Provide su i tab le nesting, roost- i ng , and foraging habitat fo r 26 pairs of bald eagles according to Management Area Direction.

Develop plans fo r each nesting t e r r i t o r y t h a t identify and schedule needed management actions.

Consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and California Department of Fish and Game about actions which may affect bald eagles.

From January through August, l i m i t a c t i v i t i e s within act ive nesting territories to minimize disturbance.

Permit monitoring, s c i en t i f i c invest igat ion, and a r t i f i c i a l propagation ac t iv i t i e s .

4-96

Rx-11 . Bald Eagle Habitat Prescription (cont 'd)


Timber

Obtain scheduled timber yields thru longer rotat ions and/or smaller openings, and uneven-age cu t t ing methods, t o perpetuate bald eagle habi ta t (7b&c).

Lands

Consolidate ownership t o encourage species recovery (16a).

Between November 1 and March 31, l i m i t a c t i v i t i e s within winter roost habi ta t t o minimize disturbance.

Perform habi ta t improvement projects t o enhance bald eagle nesting, roosting, o r foraging habi ta t .

Within the nesting habi ta t (primary zone), maintain a gen- e ra l ly continous fo re s t cover thru uneven-age systems t h a t perpetuate the habi ta t .

Within the secondary zones, use even-age systems but employ longer rotat ions and/or smaller openings as needed t o perpetuate the habi ta t .

Maintain 6 t o 30 large 028" dbh) ponderosa pine, sugar pine, or Jeffrey pine per acre within at least one-half of the t e r r i t o r y acreage of Forest Survey S i t e Class 5 or higher.

Harvest tree mortal i ty , but provide 1-5' snags per acre.

Attempt t o acquire lands within exis t ing territories.

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Rx-1 1 . Bald Eagle Habitat Prescription (cont'd)


F i r e and Fuels

Employ suppression strategies and For in tens i ty 1 or 2 wi ldf i re , fue l treatments t o pro tec t bald use a suppression s t ra tegy of eagle h a b i t a t ( lab) . "Control" i n a manner tha t mini-

mizes disturbance t o bald eagle habi ta t . For in tens i ty 3-6 wildfire, use a strategy of "Control" i n a manner tha t minimizes the area burned.

Develop and implement suppression strategy c r i t e r i a i n each bald eagle management plan.

Minimize wildf i re hazard by use of fuel treatments: incorporate criteria in to each bald eagle management plan.

Forest Pes ts

Control forest pes t s thru a site- s p e c i f i c approach (19a).

Select Pest Management methods benefit bald eagles and t h e i r habitat .

4-98

Rx-12 Spotted Owl Habitat Prescription

Description: This prescription applies t o occupied and potent ia l spotted owl nesting t e r r i t o r i e s t o provide su i tab le habi ta t for them and other late successional species. Detailed maps of known t e r r i t o r i e s are i n the Planning Records. specified i n the Management Area direction.

The Pacific Southwest Regional Guide specifies "minimum management requirements" for spotted owls. These have been implemented using the Habitat Capability Model for Spotted O w l s , found i n the Planning Records.

A l l application areas of t h i s prescription are

~ ~


Recreation

L i m i t recreational use i n spotted owl habitat ( l a ) . facilities, programs, and uses

Allow developed recreation

tha t are compatible with habi ta t and reproductive requirements of spotted owls.

Wildlife

Maintain spotted owl v i ab i l i t y (5a). Provide sui table habi ta t f o r a network fo r 54 pa i r s of spotted owls according t o Management Area direction.

Space groups of t e r r i t o r i e s 6 t o 12 miles apart , except s ingle- terr i tory areas, which must be no more than 6 miles from adjacent groups. Extend the network throughout the current range of spotted owls. Allow density reduction within the range, but maintain the range perimeter.

Provide 1000 acres of su i tab le habitat fo r each spotted owl t e r r i t o ry during every decade within the planning horizon. Include i n each a 300 acre nesting core, a contiguous 300-acre replacement core, and

4-99

Rx-12 . Spotted Owl Habitat Prescription (cont'd)


400 additional acres i n no more than three un i t s each 60 acres or larger.

Consider as "sui table habi ta t" ( for nesting, roosting, and feeding) lands with the following characterist ics:

- the average s i z e d i s t r ibu t ion is:

Number of Diameter Trees/Ac . Class (inches)

90 6-12 38 12-18 8 18-24 9 24-30 5 30-36 7 36+

- an average of 7 snags per acre are over 12" DBH within a 100 acre area containing the nes t s i t e .

- mature t r ee canopy closure exceeds 40% and t o t a l closure exceeds 70%.

- obvious decadence i s present (broken tops and defect ive trees),

- dead and down material is present, and

- core areas are located within 3/4 miles of water.

Identify owl t e r r i t o r i e s t h a t meet the in t en t of the network. Develop spotted owl management

4-100

Rx-12 . Spotted Owl Habitat Prescription (cont 'd)


plans for each t e r r i t o r y before any planned management a c t i v i t i e s occur. In th i s : 1. Identify ex is t ing owl use areas and replacement stands; 2. Specify target vegetation composition; 3. Prescribe s i l v i cu l tu ra l prac- tices including systems, cu t t ing methods, entry schedules, and rotations.

Between April 1 and June 30. l i m i t a c t i v i t i e s within occupied core areas to minimize dis tur- bance.

Timber

Obtain scheduled timber yields thru Retain "sui table habi ta t" char- appropriate s i l v i cu l tu ra l system(s) t ha t maintain v i a b i l i t y of spotted owls (7b&c). I n general, employ one or a spe-

c i f ied combination of the following pract ices fo r each t e r r i t o r y i f i n compliance with the Spotted O w l Terr i tory Management Plan:

1. Prohibit timber harvest (dedicate t o wi ld l i fe hab i t a t ) , 2. Manage a s uneven-age s tands, or 3 . Manage on an even-age basis with an average ro ta t ion age of 240 years.

acteristics s t a t ed under Wildlife.

Forest Pests

Control forest pests thru a s i te -spec i f ic approach (19a).

Select pest management methods tha t most benef i t spotted owls and the i r habi ta t .

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Rx-12. Spotted Owl Habitat Prescription (cont'd)


Lands

Acquire lands to enhance spotted By purchase or exchange, acquire owl habitat areas (16a). lands within SOHA's that will be

of benefit to spotted owl habitat.

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Rx-13 . Goshawk Habitat Prescription

Description: This prescription applies to occupied nes t stands and portions of other goshawk habitat t o provide su i tab le habi ta t fo r t h i s and other late successional species. Planning Records. presented i n the Management Area Direction.

Maps of known t e r r i t o r i e s are i n the Acreage allocations and s i te -spec i f ic d i rec t ion a re


Recreation

L i m i t recreation use i n sensi t ive In nes t stands, preclude new species habi ta t ( l a ) . developed recreat ion facilities/

programs.

Wildlife and Fish

Maintain goshawk v iab i l i t y (5a). Provide su i t ab le hab i t a t fo r goshawks according t o Management Area Direction.

When additional nes t sites are discovered, maintain su i t ab le habi ta t a t l e a s t u n t i l Management Area direct ion for goshawks is fu l ly implemented.

Within the ex i s t ing goshawk range, provide su f f i c i en t su i t ab le nesting hab i t a t t o maintain a density of a t least one nest stand per 18 square miles. Allow variat ion i n distances between stands, not exceeding 12 miles.

L i m i t disturbance t o occupied nes t stands from March 1 t o August 31.

If compatible with t h i s direc- t ion , manage fo r other species dependent upon la te successional timber stands, especial ly sen- s i t i v e species.

4-103

Rx-13 . Goshawk Habitat Prescrition (cont'd)


Timber

Obtain scheduled timber yields thru longer ro ta t ions and/or smaller openings, and uneven-age cu t t ing methods, t o perpetuate goshawk habi ta t (7b&c).

Forest Pests

Control fores t pes t s thru a site- spec i f ic approach (19a).

Within the nest stands, maintain a generally continous fores t cover thru uneven-age systems t h a t perpetuate goshawk habitat .

Outside of nest stands, use even- aged systems but employ longer ro ta t ions and/or smaller openings as needed t o perpetuate goshawk habi ta t .

I n eas t s ide pine, mixed conifer, and red f i r associations, provide a minimum of 50 acres of mature t o overmature stands for each nes t stand. Furnish t h i s acreage i n one un i t o r i n two uni ts less than 1/2 m i l e apart, if one i s at l e a s t 40 acres. Include the nest i n the nest stand where nest locat ions are known.

Where possible, provide f ive or more vegetation types and three or more s e r a l stages within two miles of the nest stand.

Provide canopy closure i n nest s tands of a t least 40%. and preferably i n excess of 60%.

Preferably choose nest stands within 1/4 mile of water and on s lopes less than 50%.

Select pest management methods t h a t most benefit goshawks and t h e i r habi ta t .

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Rx-14 . Visual Partial Retention Prescription

Description: This prescription w i l l provide fo r a natural-appearing landscape by assuring tha t management a c t i v i t i e s remain visual ly subordinate t o the natural landscape. The prescr ipt ion w i l l be applied t o areas with a Visual Quality Objective (VQO) of Partial Retention. (See Plan Appendix K ) . Such areas are generally seen as middleground and background from major recreation areas and are of primary or secondary visual importance. No management a c t i v i t i e s are prohibited i n these areas.


Visual Resources

Maintain moderately high visual qua l i ty (2a) .

Timber

Obtain scheduled timber yields thru longer rotations and smaller openings, or uneven-age systems, t h a t meet a VQO of Partial Retention (7b&c).

Employ a VQO of "Par t ia l Reten tion" through application of landscape management pr incipals and techniques described i n the National Forest Landscape Management series l i s t e d i n Appendix K.

Provide a natural-appearing landscape where management or other a c t i v i t i e s generally remain visual ly subordinate t o the charac te r i s t ic landscape.

On lands capable of producing 50 cubic feet/acre/year (CMAI), employ a l l s i l v i c u l t u r a l sytems and harvest methods a s appro- p r i a t e , provided landscape m a n - agement pr inciples and techniques a re applied t o achieve a VQO of Par t ia l Retention.

On less productive timberlands (20-49 f t /ac /yr CMAI) maintain a generally continuous fo re s t cover through unevenage s i lv i cu l - t u ra l systems tha t achieve a VQO of P a r t i a l Retention.

4-105

Rx- 15 . Timber Emphasis Prescription

Description: sawtimber and o t h e r wood products on an even-flow, long-term sustained yield bas i s , while meeting environmental constraints. It applies t o a l l lands capable, avai lable , and su i tab le fo r timber production which are not allocated t o another prescription. Even-age s i lv icu l ture w i l l generally be used on timberlands capable of producing at least 50 cf/ac/yr. (at CMAI), with emphasis on clearcut t ing shelterwood cut t ing and overstory removal f o r stand regeneration. Uneven-age s i lv icu l ture w i l l be applied t o lower s i t e l ands (20-49 f t /ac /yr CMAI). stands w i l l be converted t o conifer plantations. This prescription applies t o 460,000 acres i n 43 management areas.

This prescription provides for m a x i m u m production of

Some brushfields and hardwood


Recreation

Provide for dispersed recreation ( la) .

Visual Resources

Allow a reduct ion i n visual qual i ty ( 2 4 .

Wildlife

Assure adequate protection fo r wildl i fe and f i s h resoruces (5a).

Timber

On timberlands capable of producing at l eas t 50 cubic/feet/acre/year, obtain scheduled y i e lds from both even-age and uneven-age s i lv icu l - t u r a l systems, where each is appropriate (7b&c).

Manage lands according to the Roaded Modified (RM) ROS class .

Meet V.Q.O.'s of Modification and M a x i m u m Modification, see Forestwide Visual Resources Standards and Guidelines.

Apply Wildlife Forestwide Standards and Guidelines.

Generally do not apply regenera- t ion cut t ing t o capabili ty areas classed as over 60% slopes. On slopes less than 60%. use clear- cu t and shelterwood methods f o r regeneration harvest. Use over- s tory removal t o convert two- s tor ied t o young growth stands tha t can be managed for intermediate harvests. Regenerate no more than 20% of the M4G or

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Rx-15 . Timber Emphasis Prescription (cont'd)


R4G stands on regulation class 1 lands per decade.

In most cases, use machine piling and burning (on slopes less than 30%) and prescribed fire (on slopes over 30%) fo r site preparation. Consider other methods if other values are at risk (see Forestwide Standards and Guide- lines for site preparation methods to protect other resources).

Accomplish reforestation by planting or natural seeding.

Release seedlings from competing vegetation in plantations as needed to meet expected growth rates. At the project level, consider a full range of methods to suppress competing vegetation, including mechanical, biological, and chemical techniques and prescribed fire. Base selection on an analysis of relative effectiveness, environmental effects, and costs.

Control animal damage as needed.

Apply precommercial thinning to established plantations and stands that result from overstory removal.

Perform commercial thinning and sanitation intermediate harvesting where appropriate. Begin commercial thinning as soon as yields are available, and assure maximum utilizable cubic growth in the leave stand. Use sanitation

r

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cut t ing t o capture anticipated stand mortality. Salvage dead and dying t rees .

On lower si te timberlands, obtain Develop and implement sui table scheduled timber y ie lds while uneven-aged systems tha t main- maintaining a generally continous t a i n a generally continuous for- fo re s t cover (7b&c). est cover. A l l o w sani ta t ion and

salvage and removal of up t o 70% of net growth achieved between harvest entr ies .

Adjust s i l v i cu l tu ra l methods t o Westside Mixed Conifer: Generally biological requirements (7b&c). use ponderosa pine-Douglas f ir

mixtures for plantation stock. If appropriate, use b l i s t e r rust- r e s i s t an t sugar pine when availa- b l e t o increase species divers i ty . U s e white fir or white f i r -Jeffrey pine mixtures a t the higher eleva- t ions where white f ir is dominant i n the natural stands.

Emphasize control of competing vegetation i n plantations i n the low-elevation tan oak-madrone association.

Red Fir : Design harvests t o take advantage of natural regeneration where feasible , including baring the mineral s o i l . Plant when an adequate seed source does not e x i s t , or if natural regeneration is unlikely.

Eastside Pine and Eastside Mixed Conifer: Emphasize control of competing vegetation i n plantations.

Convert "off -site" white f i r stands t o pine (white f i r stands tha t have or have had ponderosa

4-108



pine/Jeffrey pine overstory, that generally have poor vigor, and that are infected by Fomes annosus).

Lodgepole Pine: Emphasize the seed tree regeneration method and natural seeding.

Brushfields and Hardwood Stands: Convert brushfields and hardwood stands to conifer plantations on a case-by-case basis. (Maintain diversity and hardwoods as specified in Wildlife Forestwide Standards and Guidelines.

Forest Pests

Control forest pests thru a site- See Forestwide Standards and specific approach (19a). Guidelines.

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Rx- 16 . Intensive Range Management Prescription

Description: The purpose of this prescription is to intensify range management on certain allotments to increase forage production and consumption. It applies to sparsely o r non-forested lands, of site class 5 or lower, which includes approximately 15,000 acres distributed within Management Areas 38. 40, 41, 42, and 43.


Range

Expand productivity and use on selected range allotments under intensive management (6c).

Cultural Resources

Protect significant properties (34.

Apply intensive management methods where opportunities exist and where cost-efficient, including:

- development of water sources, fencing, cattleguards, and corrals to control distribution:

- non-structural improvement including sagebrush conversion to grass, broadcast burning, treatment of competing vegetation such as brush or certain unde- sired weeds, and fertilization where appropriate.

Develop a long-term inventory and appraisal strategy.

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Rx- 1 7 . Research Natural Area Prescription

Description: maintenance of established, recommended, or candidate Research Natural Areas ( R N A ' s ) . and w i l l be formulated by appropriate research authori t ies . This prescription applies t o the M t . Pleasant Area (1300 acres) and the Mud Lake cypress groves (120 acres). comply with provisions of the Wilderness Prescription (Rx-1).

This prescription gives general direct ion for the

Direction fo r research ac t iv i t i e s is unique t o each area

Management of the former must a l so


Recreation

Provide for dispersed recreation ( la ) .

Visual Resources

Maintain high visual quali ty (2a).

Cultural Resources

Protect s ignif icant properties ( 3 4 - Range

Maintain use of active allotments on a sustained yield basis (6c).

Timber

Generally harvest no timber on lands committed t o R N A ' s (7a).

Manage recreational use according to the ROS class of SPNM. Prohi- b i t recreational uses t h a t would contribute t o modification of the area.

Maintain ex is t ing trails, but do not expand the t ra i l system.

Meet a VQO of "Preservation".

Develop a long-term inventory and appraisal strategy.

Allow grazing use t o continue.

Allow new livestock fencing t h a t furthers the research a c t i v i t i e s .

Harvest no timber, except as allowed under Forest Pests .

4-111

Rx-17 . Research Natural Area Prescription (cont'd)



Protect surface resources valued Recommend withdrawal from for research purposes ( l3a) . mineral entry.

Lands

Allow non-Federal research use and Attempt t o terminate incompat- preclude incompatible a c t i v i t i e s i b l e special r igh ts and uses (16b). (except livestock grazing).

Allow research by SUP i f compat- i b l e with FS research ac t iv i t i e s .

F a c i l i t i e s

Protect unique botanic values fo r research purposes ( 2Oa) . Fi re and Fuels

Use fire suppression s t ra tegy and t a c t i c s t ha t least alter the landscape or dis turb the land surface (18b).

Protect unique botanic values for research purposes (20a).

Forest Pests

Rely on natural processes (19a).

Construct no roads or other facilities.

Undertake no pre-suppression ac t iv i ty that dis turbs the land surface.

Develop a plan t o allow fire originating within the area t o burn undisturbed, unless it threatens persons or property outside the area or the unique- ness of the RNA. Any such plan must be approved by the Regional Forester.

Where pract ical , clean up wildfire debris, reforest , and use prescribed fire where compatible with research objectives.

Control insect and disease epide- m i c only i f unique RNA values are threatened by non-native pests.

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Management Area Direction

A Management Area is a contiguous unit of land with varying physical and biologic character and management needs. Those 43 such areas defined on the Forest for purposes of this Plan are groups of the pre-existing timber compartments (TC's). Thus, they are administrative, rather than natural, units of land.

Management direction for each Management Area includes:

Management Area Map. Shows the area boundary and spatial relation to the entire Forest, general geographic features, public vs. private land, the road system, and developed recreation sites.

Description. Discusses location, size, prominent features, terrain, watershed, erodibility and slope stability, vegetation, wildlife, fire history, cultural resources, recreational use. range and timber production, mining and other uses. (Note: total area acreages given are those within the Forest boundary only.)

Standards and Guidelines. States management direction unique to each management area. This guidance (which includes application of particular prescriptions) is presented in the General Direction and Standard/Guideline format described earlier.

Prescription Allocations and Management Objectives. Presents the approximate planned acreage allocation of the area to the various prescriptions (refer to the preceding section for the substance of the prescriptions) and lists the target wildlife and range objectives for the particular area.

Each Management Area shall be managed in conformance with the Forest Goals and Policies and the direction that follows herein. Forestwide Standards and Guidelines are applicable wherever relevant, and provisions of prevailing prescriptions must also be satisfied.

4-113

Oroville Ranger District

Management Area

1. Flea Mountain

2. Grizzly Dome

3. French Creek

4. Galen

5. Bucks

6. Faggs

7 . Axford

8. Kellogg

4-119

4-125

4-131

4-137

> . 4-143

4-151

4-155

4-159

4-111

T 23 N. R 4 E

Management Area #l Flea Mountain

4-118

MANAGEMENT AREA 1

Flea Mountain

Dis t r ic t : Oroville

Description

Acreage: 23.785 Tota l 17,355 or 73% PNF

The Flea Mountain Management Area is located 5-15 miles northeast of Paradise. ea s t and L i t t l e Butte Creek on the w e s t and lies between the communi

The area has steep and rugged t e r r a in i n the r iver and creek canyons and moderate t o gentle slopes on the numerous benches and ridges. Elevations range from 1,000 feet along the Feather River t o 4,400 f e e t i n the north. North Fork of the Feather River. Ravine, Flea Valley, Camp, Lockerman, and Dogwood Creeks. Erosion potent ia l is high fo r most of the area, and the potent ia l fo r landslides as a r e s u l t of disturbance is high t o extreme on the portions along the North Fork Canyon.

The vegetation is characterized by ponderosa pine i n the higher elevations and typical f o o t h i l l mixed conifer, oak-madrone mix, shrubs and some grass i n the lower portions. The area provides winter range fo r the Tehama and Bucks Mountain Deer Herd. Portions of two spotted owl territories are included. The largest recorded fire occurred i n the Sawmill Peak v i c in i ty i n 1968 and burned 2,000 acres.

Prehistoric sites, ranging from s ingle components t o large v i l lage areas, and h i s to r i c sites are numerous i n the area.

Recreational a c t i v i t i e s are dispersed camping, f ishing, and hunting. Paradise Lake is the major a t t ract ion: the adjacent picnic area is operated by a Special Use Permittee.

The "Flea Valley" grazing allotment is within the area. Logging, including ear ly ra i l road logging, has been extensive. The demand for fuelwood cut t ing permits is s teadi ly increasing, and timber harvesting continues.

Mining has occurred since the Gold Rush era.

Highway 70, the Union Pac i f ic Railroad, and powerlines run the length of the eastern boundary along the North Fork. Hydroelectric projects have been developed along the r ive r , and others have been proposed f o r its t r ibu tar ies .

It i s bounded by the North Fork of the Feather River on the

Most of the area is drained by the West Branch and the Major streams are Empire, Shake

4-119

MANAGEMENT AREA 1 Flea Mountain

~ ~ _ _ _ _


Recreation Encourage privately-operated public r ec rea t ion ( l a ) . . .

Visual Resources Maintain p leas ing v isua l correidors (2a) .

W i l d l i f e Protect and improve emphasis species hab i t a t (5a).

Maintain species v i a b i l i t y ( 5 4

Cultural Resources Inventory within and adjacent t o project areas (3a).

Minerals and Materials Protect unique botanic values (134 . Provide f o r recrea t iona l gold panning and dredging (13s).

Lands Consolidate ownership and dispose of designated lands (16a) .

Pending the r e su l t s of a Future Use Determination, re-issue Special U s e Permits as needed for the Paradise Lake Picnic Area: apply Rx-6.

Apply Rx-10 and Rx-14 t o the Hwy. 70 viewshed. Minimize the visual impact of e l e c t r i c transmission l i nes and hydro-electric f a c i l i t i e s .

Maintain or enhance deer winter range i n TC's 405, 427, and 428.

Provide sui table bald eagle fora- ing habi ta t along the North Fork from Bardees B a r downstream.

Inventory and monitor the NR- e l ig ib le d i s t r i c t .

Recommend withdrawal from mineral entry: McNab cvpress stand.

Recommend the North Fork of the Feather River upstream from Pulga for withdrawal from mineral entry.

Except for the McNab cypress stand, consider making NF lands west of a l i n e running south along the sect ion l i n e between Sec. 1 and 2, T.25N. R.5E, t o Sec. 23 and 24, T.22N, R.4E. available for exchange.

4-120

MANAGEMENT ARFA 1 Flea Mountain


Facilities Upgrade forest arterials and Reconstruct the Concow Road in collectors (174. cooperation with the County.

Surface with aggregate.

Provide cost-efficient support Construct PNF microwave facil- facilities (174. ities at Flea Mountain.

Dismantle and remove all remain- ing facilities at the Cresta Administrative site.

Manage Sawmill Peak as an elec- tronic site. Examine the establishment of a site manager for the area.

Upgrade the Rag Dump Adminis- trative site to support program activities.

Special Areas Protect unique botanic value (20b). Maintain the McNab cypress stand;

employ Rx-7.

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Management Area 1 PRESCRIPTION ALLOCATION

Prescriptions Acres Rx-6. Developed Recreation S i t e 13 Rx-7. Minimal Management 3294 Rx-9. Riparian 1/ 676 Rx-10. Visual Retention Rx-12. Spotted Owl Habitat Rx-14. Visual P a r t i a l Retention Rx-15. Timber Emphasis

Total

1515 4151 950 7432

17.355

WILDLIFE HABITAT ALLOCATIONS

Species Territories Compartment Comments Spotted O w l 1 405 SOHA 21 0-3

SENSITIVE PLANT LOCATIONS

Species Compartment Cypripedium californicum 405 Cypripedium fasciculatum 427 Sedum albomarginatum 405,428 F r i t i l l a r i a eastwoodiae 428 Senecio Eurycephalus var. lewisrosei 405,428

SERAL STAGE (DIVERSITY) TARGETS

Habitat Type Target Acres (Minimum) Per Stage Black oak 200 Digger pine 32 Mixed conifer 519 Ponderosa pine 103

RANGE ALLOTMENT STRATEGIES

Allotment N a m e Grazing Strategy Flea Mountain E

- 1/ Acreage overlaps other Rx. - 21 Spotted O w l Habitat Area

4-122

T 2 3 N , R 6 E

Management Area #2

Grizzly Dome

MANAGEMENT AREA 2

Grizzly Dome

District: Oroville Acreage: 34.599 Total 27,550 or 79% PNF

Description

The Grizzly Dome Management area extends southwesterly from Lower Bucks Lake to the North Fork of the Feather River, bounded by the Pulga-Four Trees and Oroville-Quincy Roads on the south and Bald Eagle Mountain on the north. county: the remainder is in Butte County. Prominent natural features include Grizzly Dome, Duffey Dome, Elephant Butte, and Bear Ranch Hill.

Access is generally difficult due to steep and rugged terrain. Elevations vary from 1,840 feet to 5.900 feet. Major perennial streams are Bucks, Grizzly, Foreman, Soapstone, Palmetto, and Heinz Creeks, all of which flow into the North Fork of the Feather River. One small reservoir, Grizzly Forebay, is within the management area. It was constructed in the mid 1920's as part of the Bucks Creek hydroelectric project. Soils are moderate to highly erodible, and the risk of landslides is high to extreme in the steeper inner canyons.

The northwestern half of the area's conifers were largely destroyed by the Milk Ranch Fire in 1951. Brush species dominate the understory. Vegetation on the unburned area is true fir and mixed conifer. The Bucks Mountain Deer Herd uses the entire area for summer range, and 2,485 acres are important winter range. territories are present.

Recreational use is moderate and consists mainly of dispersed camping, fishing, hunting, and hiking. Ten streams are considered to have significant recreation value. trails are also present.

A portion of the Bucks Creek, Granite Basin, and Mill Creek grazing allotments are included. private lands.

Hydraulic and placer mining occurred along the North Fork of the Feather River during the Gold Rush. dredges.

Approximately two-thirds of the area is within Plumas

Portions of two spotted owl

The Wildcat and Grizzly Forebay system

Logging activity occurs on both PNF and

Current mining is limited to use of small

4-125

MANAGEMENT AREA 2 Grizzly Dome


Visual Resources Maintain pleasing v isua l corridors

Wildlife Protect and improve emphasis species hab i t a t (5s).

Range

Expand productivity on a sustained- yield bas i s (6c).

Timber Obtain r e m l a t e d timber yields through &evenage s i l v i c k t u r a l systems (7a&b).

Water Improve water y i e l d i n the Red F i r zone (loa).

Minerals and Materials Provide for recreat ion gold panning - - and dredging (13a).

Apply Rx-10 and Rx-14 to the Hwy. 70 viewshed. Minimize the visual impact of transmission l i n e s and hydro-electric facilities.

Maintain or enhance deer winter range i n TC 417.

Provide deer summer range i n bal- ance with winter range capacity.

Evaluate and accordingly adjust the allotment boundary between M i l l Creek and Granite Basin. Eliminate Granite Basin a l lo t - ment.

Evaluate e f fec ts of l ivestock dis t r ibut ion and forage use on deer and implement grazing changes as needed.

Manage the Saddle Timber Compart- ment using single-tree and group select ion s i lv i cu l tu ra l methods.

Employ Forestwide Standards and Guidelines: WATER, Water Uses and Needs.

Recommend withdrawal from mineral entry: Feather River.

the North Fork of the

4-126

MANAGEMENT AREA 2 Grizzly Dome


Facilities Upgrade forest arterials and collectors (17a). Butte Counties, reconstruct the

In cooperation with Plumas and

Quincy-Oroville Highway as a part of the Forest Highway System: give priority to the Mountain House-Frenchman Hill segment.

Develop the Three Lake Roads to Camp Rogers Saddle to a standard allowing forest product removal.

Replace the crossings on Mill Creek and the tributary to Mill Creek.

Provide cost-efficient support Upgrade the Coyote Gap adminis- facilities (17a). trative site to support program

activities.

4-127


Prescr ipt ions Acres Rx-6. Developed Recreation S i t e 18 Fix-7. Minimal Management 4284 Rx-9. Riparian 1/ 1092 Rx-10. Visual Retention 223 Rx-12. Spotted O w l Habitat 2160 Rx-13. Goshawk Habitat 100 Rx-14. Visual P a r t i a l Retention 9840 Rx-15. Timber Emphasis 10925

Tot a1 27 I 550


Species Te r r i t o r i e s Compartment Comments Spotted O w l 4 421,423,422. SOHA'S M-2, M-3, 0-1, 0-2;

406, 417 overlaps MA #3, 5 Goshawk 2 406,423


Species Compartment Vaccinium coccinium 406 L e w i s i a cantelowii 406,417 Cypripedium fasciculatum 407,423


Habitat Type Target Acres (Minimum) Per Stage Black oak 292 Mixed conifer 1135 Red fir 61


Allotment Name Grazing Strategy Bucks Creek B Granite Basin Eliminate M i l l Creek B

- 1/ Acreage overlaps o ther Rx. - 2/ Spotted O w l Habitat Area

4-128

T 22 N. R 5 E

Management Area #3 French Creek

4-130

MANAGEMENT AREA 3

French Creek

District: Oroville Acreage: 42.148 Total 29,892 or 70% PNF

Description

The French Creek Management Area is located between the North Fork of the Feather River, the Pulga-Four Trees Road, and the Oroville-Quincy Road. pattern exists.

The area has steep and rugged terrain except along French Creek and on ridges. Elevations range from 5,149 feet at Four Trees in the northeast to 900 feet in the southwest. French Creek, which flows into the North Fork of the Feather within Oroville Reservoir. On the west a few creeks flow directly into the North Fork. a watershed where conventional land management can cause excessive sedimentation. roads.

The vegetation consists of mixed conifers in the lower elevations and true fir in the higher elevations. Portions of three spotted owl territories and a bald eagle management zone are in the area. herd winter range.

Fishing, recreational mining, and hunting are the primary recreational activities.

The area encompasses the "French Creek" grazing allotment. early 1900's to the 1930's the area was heavily logged, transportation. is still a major timber producer.

During the gold rush, the area was extensively mined, as evidenced by cobble tailings along all major creeks. French Creek in the 1930's.

The entire area is within Butte County. A checkerboard ownership

The area is primarily the watershed of

Soils are extremely erodible, and the French Creek Basin is

Mass instability is usually limited to slumping along

Fires have been few and small.

Approximately 6,000 acres are Bucks Mountain deer

"Rogers Cow Camp" is the only developed campground.

From the using rail

Many of the grades form today's road system. The area

Dredge mining took place along Some mining still occurs.

4-131

MANAGEMENT AREA 3 French Creek


Recreation Efficiently manage recreation i n the Lake Orovi l le S t a t e Recreation Area ( l a ) .

Provide developed recreation facilities/programs t o meet demand while reducing un i t cos ts ( la ) .

Visual Resources Maintain pleasing visual corridors

Cultural Resources Protect s i g n i f i c a n t cu l tura l properties (3a).

Wildlife Protect and improve emphasis species hab i t a t (5a).

Maintain species v i a b i l i t y (5a).

Water Protect and, where necessary, improve water qua l i ty ( loa) .

Continue cooperation allowing the California Dept. of Parks and Recreation t o manage the reservoir area including PNF lands.

Maintain the Rogers Cow Camp Campground; employ Rx-6. but operate as a self-service f ac i l - i t y with no developed water supply. Close when a major expenditure is required.

Apply Rx-IO and Rx-14 t o the Hwy. 70 viewshed. Minimize the visual impact of transmission l i n e s and hydro-electric f a c i l i t i e s .

Protect and maintain Frenchman's Grave.

Maintain winter habi ta t fo r band- t a i l ed pigeons i n TC's 403 and 418.

Maintain o r enhance deer winter range i n TC's 403, 418, and 419.

Provide su i tab le bald eagle foraging habi ta t along the North Fork upstream from Oroville Reservoir.

Maintain and construct additional erosion control works when needed, t o control excessive erosion and sedimentation from the French Creek basin.

4-132

MANAGEMENT AREA 3 French Creek


Facilities Upgrade forest arterials and collectors.

Reconstruct the Quincy-Oroville Hwy as part of the Forest Highway System: give priority to the Mountain House-Frenchman Hill segment.

Reconstruct the Stanwood Saddle Road in cooperation with Butte County to reduce cummulative impacts to the watershed.

Reconstruct the Pulga - 4 Trees Road.

Reconstruct and surface Brush Reconstruct management roads to minimum needed standards (l7a). Creek Admin. Site roads.

Provide cost-efficient support Upgrade Brush Creek Admin. Site facilities (174. utilities. Precede road upgrading.

Retain the Big Bar Lookout tower to house PNF microwave facilities. Remove the cab, dependent on an archaeological review.

Plan ocher Brush Creek Admin. Site improvements under FA0 funding as needed to support existing and anticipated programs.

Determine the future need and use for the Loafer Creek scaling station, and proceed with resolution.


Prescr ip t ions Acres Rx-6. Developed Recreation Si te 4 Rx-7. Rx-9. Rx-lo. Rx-11. Rx-12.

Rx-14. ~x-13.

RX-15.

Minimal Management Riparian 1/ Visual Retention Bald Eagle Habitat Spotted O w l Habitat Goshawk Habitat Visual P a r t i a l Retention Timber Emphasis

1715 1357 849 887 1224 50

5760 19403

Total 29,892


Species Terr i tor ies Compartment Comments Bald Eagle 1 418 Existing Bald Eagle 1 NF A r m Potent ia l ; overlaps MA #4 Spotted O w l 2 401,404,417, SOHA'S 0-1, 0-2;

and 418 overlaps MA #1,2


Habitat Type Target Acres (Minimum) Per Stage Black oak 228 Mixed conifer 1135 Ponderosa pine 111


Allotment Name Grazing Strategy French Creek B

- 1/ Acreage overlaps other Rx.

4-134

T 2 1 N , R 5 E

Management Area # 4

Galen

4-136 ~ ~~~

~~ ~~~

_-

District: Oroville

MANAGEMENT AREA 4

Acreage: 21.783 Total 8,719 or 40% PNF

Description

The Galen Management Area extends eas te r ly from Big Bend on the North Fork's Oroville Reservoir t o the canyon of the Middle Fork of the Feather River. Fork and the Oroville-Quincy Road through the Brush Creek Work Center and on the south by the Forest boundary. checkerboard. i n Plumas County. Rock, L i t t l e Bald Rock, and the B i g Bend a r m of the Reservoir.

The area has broad ridgetops and steep canyon slopes. from 1,000 f ee t i n the Big Bend area t o 4,000 feet on Shute Mountain. The western and eastern portions are i n the North and Middle Fork watersheds, respectively. Principal drainages include Galen, Martin, Berry, Brush, and Mountain House Creeks. Galen, Martin, and Berry Creeks flow in to Madrone Lake, a s m a l l reservoir j u s t outside the area. The geology is very uniform: coarse-grained g ran i t i c rock occurs extensively throughout. critical problems. Fork Canyon. The B i g Bald Rock Batholith, a group of gran i te domes, is of special geologic in t e re s t .

Vegetation is mixed conifer but with extensive hardwood r ipar ian corridors. Most of the creeks support a modest t rou t population. The area is cri t ical winter range of the Bucks Mountain deer herd. A pa r t of a spotted owl t e r r i t o ry and a bald eagle management zone are included.

Dispersed recreation is l i g h t because the area lacks recreat ional a t t r ac t ions and pr ivate land is widespread. f ishing, hunting, and some camping. No developed campgrounds are i n the area. About 70 acres of the Bald Rock unroaded area are present.

A portion of the "Berry Creek" grazing allotment i s within the area: i t i s used i n conjunction with adjacent pr ivate lands. has taken place on both PNF and pr ivate land and is continuing.

Histor ical evidence of mineral exploration is found throughout the area, and there are several recent claims.

It is bounded on the north by a segment of the North

The land ownership pa t te rn is Most of the uni t is i n Butte County, but a small p a r t is

Prominent features include Wild Yankee H i l l , B i g Bald

Elevations range

Consequently sheet and gully erosion are Mass in s t ab i l i t y is a problem i n the s teep North

Major a c t i v i t i e s include

Logging a c t i v i t y

4-137

MANAGEMENT AREA 4 Galen


Recreation Eff ic ien t ly manage recreation i n the Lake Orovi l le S t a t e Recreation Area ( la ) .

Provide for semi-primitive recreat ion ( l a ) .

Visual Resources Maintain pleasing v isua l corridors ( 2 4 .

Cultural Resources Protect significant properties ( 3 A ) .

Wildl i fe Protect and improve emphasis species hab i t a t (5a).

Range Suspend grazing on areas valued fo r other purposes (6A).

Lands Consolidate ownership and dispose of designated lands 116a).

F a c i l i t i e s Provide roads necessary to meet developed recrea t ion i d other demands ( la , 17a).

Continue cooperation allowing the C a l i f . Dept. of Parks and Recrea- t i on t o manage the reservoir area including PNF lands.

Maintain the character of the Bald Rock semi-primitive area: employ Rx-8.

Apply Rx-10 and Rx-14 t o the Quincy-Oroville Road viewshed.

Reserve, and interpret as appro- p r i a t e , significant Maidu religious sites i n the Bald Rock Area.

Maintain wintering habi ta t for band-tailed pigeons i n T C ' s 414 and 430.

Maintain or enhance deer winter range i n T C ' s 412, 414, 430.

Eliminate Berry Creek Allotment due t o community expansion and r u r a l subdivision.

Consider making isolated NF lands i n T21, R5 , Sec. 14,22,26,28, and 30 available for exchange if not needed t o meet deer herd objec- t ives .

Improve access t o the Milsap Bar Campground on the MFFR.

4-138

MANAGEMENT AREA 4 Galen


Manage Bloomer H i l l as an agency radio communications site.

Special Areas Protect unique scenic and geologic values (20b). Road area: emlov Rx-7. Provide

Preserve and enhance the B i g Bald

interpretat ion of geoiogic values.

Restrict ORV use at B i g Bald Rock.


Prescriptions Fk-7. Minimal Management Rx-8. Semi-primitive Area Fk-9. Riparian 1/ Rx-10. Visual Retention Rx-11. Bald Eagle Habitat Rx-12. Spotted O w l Habitat Fk-14. Visual P a r t i a l Retention Rx-15. Timber Emphasis

Total

Acres 606 69 360 1360 300 215 4129

2040

8719


Species Te r r i t o r i e s Compartment Comments Bald Eagle 1 414,430 Potential: overlaps MA #3 Spotted-Owl 1 412,419,431 SOHA'S L-1,L-3: overlaps

MA #8


Species Compartment F r i t i l l a r i a eastwoodiae 412




Allotment Name Grazing Strategy Berry Creek Eliminate


4-140

~~ ~~

~~

~~ ~

T 24 N. R 7 E

Management Area % 5

Bucks

4-142

& O S 1 2

MANAGEMENT AREA 5

Bucks

District: Oroville

Description

Acreage: 22.703 Total 20,803 or 91% PNF

The Bucks Management Area, located 15 miles west of Quincy. is bounded by Spanish Peak - Mt. Pleasant - ridgeline south of Haskins Valley. County. Prominent features are Bucks Lake (a reservoir), Bucks Mountain, and Bald Eagle Mountain.

Elevations range from 2,320 feet on Bucks Creek to 7,176 feet at Bald Eagle Mountain. Most soils are derived from granitic rock and localized areas are erodible. High elevation areas are recently glaciated and have little soil development. Most of the area has a low to moderate risk of mass movement. The entire unit drains into the North Fork of the Feather River either directly o r via Mill, Haskins. and Bucks Creek through Bucks Lake.

Vegetation consists of dense red fir at the higher elevations and mixed conifers at the lower elevations and is mostly old-growth. Bucks Lake has rainbow, brown, and eastern brook trout and kokanee salmon. The Wilderness area contains a southern bald eagle nesting territory and part of a spotted owl territory.

Ranching, power generation and developed recreation have been the primary land-uses in the area. Ranch, now beneath the lake. Presently, a portion of the "Bucks Creek" grazing allotment is within the area. In 1925. the Bucks Creek Hydroelectic Pro- ject was undertaken and Bucks Lake was formed. this system.

Major recreational use of the area is by visitors to developed facilities on the west and south shores of Bucks Lake and Haskins Valley. Dispersed hunters, campers, and hikers also utilize the area. Developed facilities include the 40 unit Haskins Recreation Residence Tract (22 acre), 82 unit Bucks Lake Residence Tract (26 acres). and three resorts, of which one is on PNF land. Camping facilities include Whitehorse, Grizzly Creek, Sundew, Mill Creek Campgrounds, the Hutchins Group Campground, and a P.G.&E. Campground.

A semi-developed campground is available on the north shore of Lower Bucks Lake. tion of the Pacific Crest Trail forms the eastern boundary of the management area.

Logging has generally not been undertaken in the area, which remains largely roadless. developed areas.

Three Lakes Ridge on the northeast and by the The entire area is within Plumas

A portion of the Bucks Lake Wilderness is present.

Ranching was first established in 1850 at Bucks

Three Lakes is also part of

Two organizational camps are also located on Lower Bucks Lake. A por-

The exception has been small salvage timber sales adjacent to

4-143

MANAGEMENT AREA 5 Bucks


Recreation Provide f o r dispersed recreat ion Apply Rx-1 t o the Bucks Lake (la). Wilderness Area.

Improve and expand trails t o meet Develop a M i l l Creek T r a i l T r a i l - demand ( la ) . head, t o include horse facilities.

Construct day use facilities at Lower Bucks Lake.

Improve California Riding and Hiking T r a l from Bucks Creek t o the junction of the Pac i f ic Crest Trai l .

Complete the snowmobile, hiking, and cross-country ski ing trailhead at Bucks Summit i n cooperation with Plumas County. Monitor use pat terns t o assess conf l ic t potential .

Provide developed recreat ion facil i t ies/programs t o meet demand ( l a ) .

Maintain the Bucks Lake Recreation Area; employ Rx-5 and -6 . Con- s t r u c t a Picnic Area at Sandy Point by the Year 2000: (see Developed Recreation S i t e Plan maps i n the Planning Records.) Develop a Whitehorse Campground Rehabilitation Plan.

Allow continuance of the Bucks and Haskins Valley Recreation Residence Tracts through the planning period, but perform Future Use Determinations t o evaluate long-term recreation f ac i l i - ties needs for Bucks Lake. Employ Regional and National direct ion i n force a t the time.



Reduce confl ic ts between recreationists ( l a ) .

Encourage privately-operated public recreation ( la) .

Cultural Resources Interpret selected National Register sites (3a).

Visual Resources Maintain pleasing visual corridors ( 2 4 .

Wildlife Maintain species v i a b i l i t y (5a).

Range Mamtain use of act ive allotments on a sustained yield basis (6c)

Timber Manage timber basical ly t o maintain

I "

or enhance recreation values (7b).

Allow only car-top boat launch at Lower Bucks Lake.

Pending r e su l t s of a Future U s e Determination, reissue Special Use Permits t o the Bucks Lake Lodge, and the Mormon T r a i l and Camp Timberwolf Organization Camps.

I n i t i a t e in te rpre ta t ion of the Boathouse prehis tor ic site.

Interpret the Kellogg Ravine T r a i l .

Apply Rx-10 t o the Bucks Lake and Bucks Lake Road. Apply Rx-10 and Rx-14 t o the remainder of the area. Allow variances t o VQO requirements for the FS adminis- t r a t ive site a t Lower Bucks Lake.

L i m i t dispersed recreation i n the Bucks Lake Bald Eagle Terr i tory when the nest site is act ive.

Allow exis t ing grazing use i n the Bucks Lake Wilderness t o continue.

Harvest timber w i l l be based pre- dominately on VQO requirements. Emphasize unevenage timber management systems.



Timber d i rec t ion f o r the area includes :

No Scheduled Harvest

Areas not su i t ed f o r timber production, such as Wilderness, and non-commercial timberland.

Limitied Yields

Harvests w i l l be made through non-intensive pract ices such as sanitation, salvage, selection. Basically, manage with an uneven-aged management scheme.

Modified Yields

Obtain less than optimum timber yields through regeneration harvest, using ro ta t ions somewhat longer than CMAI. L i m i t openings t o group se lec t ion harvesting less than 5 acres i n s ize . May include Visual P a r t i a l Retention areas, Spotted O w l and secondary Bald Eagle habi ta t .

Water Maintain Bucks Lake water qua l i ty Evaluate the po ten t i a l of each (loa) . project i n the watershed t o de-

grade the L a k e ' s water qual i ty . Upon replacement, modification, or t ransfer , require permittee t o meet al l County, S ta te , and Federal requirements for water quality.

Periodically monitor lake water quality i n cooperation with State and County agencies.

4-146



Facilities Provide cost-efficient support facilities (l7a).

Develop a monitoring plan to establish background data and detect changes.

Construct a new administrative site and access road at Lower Bucks Lake.

Upgrade Three Lakes road along Lower Bucks Lake.

Improve the Whitehorse Adminis- trative Site only to meet minimum health and safety standards: remove site when the Lower Bucks site is available.

Special Areas Protect unique botanic values for Recommend establishment of a Mt. research purposes (20a). Pleasant Research Natural Area

(RNA) as shown on figure 4-3: employ Rx-17.

4-147


Prescriptions Acres Rx-1. Wilderness 9112 Rx-5. Rx-6. Rx-7. Rx-g . Rx-lo. Rx-11. ~x-13. Rx-14. RX-15.

Recreation Area Developed Recreation S i t e Minimal Management Riparian 1/ Visual Retention Bald Eagle Habitat Goshawk Habitat Visual P a r t i a l Retention Timber Emphasis

Rx-17. Research Natural Area Total

3065 80

3834 874 1337 450 50 471 1104 1300

20,803


Species Te r r i t o r i e s Compartment Comments Bald Eagle 1 425 Existing Bald Eagle 1 425,426 Potent ia l Goshawk 1 425 SOHA Spotted O w l 3 421,423 SOHA'S M - 1 , M-2, M-3;

425,426 overlaps MA #2 Osprey 2 425 1 Existing; 1 Potential


Species Compartment Drosera rotundifolia 1125.426


Habitat Type Target Acres (Minimum) Per StaEe Black oak 48 Lodgepole pine 21 Mixed conifer 290 Ponderosa pine 11 Red f i r 411


Allotment Name Grazing Strategy Bucks Creek B


4-148

Figure 4-3

Recommended Mt. Pleasant Research Natural Area A portion of the Bucks Lake Wilderness Area

T 24 N, R 7 E

4-149

L

T 2 3 N , R 7 E

Management Area a6

FiWw

J ~ -~ ~~ ~

4-150

~

District: Oroville Acreage 10,022 Total 9302 o r 92% PNF

Description

The Faggs Management Area is located immediately south of Bucks lake, and generally encompasses the area between Frenchman H i l l on the west, Bucks Summit - Lookout Rock Ridge on the eas t , Cedar F l a t on the north, and the Middle Fork of the Feather River on the south. Pr ivate landholdings are concentrated i n the Faggs Ranch/Cedar F la t area. en t i r e acreage IS within Plumas County. Prominent features include Mount Ararat, Frenchman H i l l , Cedar F la t , and Faggs Reservoir.

Topography consi ts of moderate slopes, with some s teep areas i n the creek canyons. Elevations range from 5.200 feet i n the western half t o 6,350 feet on Grizzly Mountain. Middle Fork of the Feather River and northwestward t o Grizzly Creek and Bucks Creek, t r i bu ta r i e s t o the North Fork of the Feather River. Access is generally r e s t r i c t ed during the months of November through April because of deep snow. landslides from disturbance is generally low to moderate.

Vegetation is characterized by intermixed patches of o ld growth and younger conifers and minor amounts of lodgepole, aspen, cottonwood, w i l l o w , and alder. True fir predominates. The area is within the summer range of the Bucks Mountain Deer herd. It contains par t s of three spotted owl territories.

Major recreational use of the area is dispersed camping, hunting, f ishing, and hiking. management area. Bucks Highlands, a recreation residence tract, is located on pr ivate land i n the Faggs Ranch area. Pacific Crest T r a i l runs along the eastern boundary of the management area.

The area encompasses a majority of the "Gravel" grazing allotment. management area is an important timber producer.

Mining has occurred from the 1850's to the present, evidenced by old cabin sites, di tches , and mine ta i l ings. A t present, there are many active mining claims, the largest being the "On Top" Mine.

The

The area drains both southward t o the

Soi l s are moderately erodible. The r i sk of

There are no developed recreation sites within the

A portion of the

The

4-151


Wildlife Protect and improve emphasis species hab i t a t (5a).

Range Encourage l ives tock use. Exuand - - productivity on a sustained-yield basis (6c).

Suspend range use on areas valued f o r other purposes (6a).

Water Protect and. where necessary - improve water q u a l i t y (loa).

Improve water y i e l d i n the Red F i r zone (loa).

Maintain or enhance meadow/ willow habi ta t capabili ty along Haskins Creek for Willow Flycatcher habi ta t .

Evaluate and accordingly adjust the boundary between the Gravel and Bucks Creek allotments t o resolve grazing vs. p r iva te land confl ic t .

Eliminate Gravel Allotment due t o ru ra l subdivision, causing undue economic impacts.

Attempt t o acquire the land upon which the Faggs debris reservoi r is located. Maintain commen- sura te with reservoir ownership.

See Forestwide Standards and Guidelines: WATER, Water Uses and Needs.


Prescriptions Acres Rx-2. Wild and Scenic River 7

Rx-9. Riparian 1/ 452 Rx-10. Visual Retention 1784 Rx-14. Visual Partial Retention 1544 Rx-15. Timber Emphasis 5409

Rx-7. Minimal Management 558

T o t a l 9302


Species Compartment Penstemon personatus 413,416 Viola tomentosa 413


Habitat Type Target Acres (Minimum) Per Stage Digger pine 28 Mixed conifer 444 Red f i r 133


Allotment Name Grazing Strategy Bucks Creek B Gravel Eliminate


4-153

T23N,R7E

Management Area #7

Axford

4-154

MANAGEMENT AREA 7

Axford

District: Oroville Acreage: 26,739 Total 24,446 or 91% PNF

Description

The Axford Management Area extends from the Oroville-Quincy Road to the rim of the canyon of Middle Fork of the Feather River between Sky High and Willow Creek. except for 1,000 acres in Butte County.

The area has several major ridges which include Toland. Rock Island, Sky High, and Glazer. Terrain is moderately sloped along the ridges but extremely steep in the creek canyons. Elevations range from approximately 4,000 feet to 6,000 feet. the Little North Fork of the Feather River watershed, drained prominently by Marble, Buckhorn, Frazier, Axford, Coquette, and Coldwater Creeks. moderately to very highly erodible. serpentine areas and the steep inner canyons.

Vegetation consists of mixed conifers at the lower elevations and red and white fir at the higher elevations. The Bucks Mountain deer herd uses approximately 2.500 acres for winter range. Most of the area is used for summer deer summer range. included.

Recreational use, mostly dispersed, includes fishing, hunting, camping, and hiking, but the Little North Fork Campground is present. A hiking trail paralleling Marble Creek is used primarily by fishermen.

Portions of the "Gravel," "Bear Gulch," and "Granite Basin" grazing allotments are within the area. Use is intermittent. Extensive railroad logging took place in the 1920's and 1930's. virtually eliminating the old growth stands. of young stands.

Mining has had a significant impact here. oldest mines is the "Robinson" which began operations in the mid 1800's and supported a large population through the 1930's. important activity in the area.

The entire management area is within Plumas County

Almost the entire area is in

Soils are derived from many rock types and are Mass instability is a problem in

A spotted owl territory is Most of the creeks support trout.

Present management involves thinning

The largest, and one of the

Mining is still an

MANAGEMENT AREA 7 Axf ord


Recreation Provide develoued f a c i l i t i e s while reducing uni t cos ts ( la ) .


Wildlife Protect and improve emphasis species habi ta t (5a).

Range Suspend range use on areas valued fo r other purposes (6a).

Water Imurove water y ie ld i n the Red F i r

Minerals and Materials Withdraw important Forest material sources from mineral entry (l3a).

Fac i l i t i e s Provide cost e f f i c i e n t suuuort _ _ f a c i l i t i e s (174

When a major investment i s needed, close and remove the L i t t l e North Fork Campgrd. In the interim, provide self-service at L i t t l e North Fork Campgrd.

Apply RX-14 t o the Quincy-Oroville Road viewshed.

Maintain or enhance deer summer range habi ta t for the Bucks Mountain deer herd.

Eliminate Bear Gulch, Gravel, and Granite Basin allotments.

See Forestwide Standards and Guidelines: WATER. Water Uses and Needs.

Recommend withdrawal from mineral entry: #54-16 "Coldwater Creek Gravels".

Develop a f a c i l i t y master plan and rebuild the Granite Basin Adminis- t r a t i v e site, i f a c t i v i t i e s increase i n t h i s area.

4-156


Prescriptions Acres Rx-6. Developed Recreation S i t e 7 Rx-7. Minimal Management Rx-9. Riparian 1/ Rx-10. Visual Retention Rx-12. Spotted O w l Habitat Rx-13. Goshawk Habitat Rx-14. Visual Partial Retention Rx-15. Timber Emphasis

1120 1024 4608 275 50

2104 16282

Total 24.446


Species Ter r i to r ies Compartment Comments Spotted O w l 1 411 SOHA L-2; overlaps MA's

Goshawk 1 408 #8 and 10.


Species Compartment Penstemon personatus 410,411,415 Vaccinium coccinium Drosera rotundifol ia Cypripedium fasciculatum

408,409,410,411.415 415 410


Habitat Type Target Acres,(Minimum) Per Stage Black oak 96 Mixed conifer Red fir

969 150


Allotment Name Grazing Strategy Bear Gulch Eliminate Granite Basin Eliminate Gravel Eliminate


~

T 2 2 N. R 7 E

Management Area t8 Kellogg

MANAGEMENT AREA 8

Kellogg

District: Oroville

Description

Acreage 16,943 Total 15,935 or 94% PNF

The Kellogg Management Area is a 1 to 2 mile wide corridor along the north side of the Middle Fork of the Feather River Canyon from Oroville Reservoir to near Bear Creek (Oroville-Quincy District boundary). Fifty percent of the PNF land is within the federally-designated Wild and Scenic River area. Slightly more than half of the management area is in Plumas County; the remainder is in Butte County. Prominent features include large, scenic granite domes and several waterfalls. The southern portion is within the Feather Falls Scenic Area.

Terrain is generally extremely steep and rugged, and vertical cliffs in the main canyon average 2,000 feet in height. Elevation ranges from 760 feet to 5,620 feet. Soils are highly erodible and the landslide risk is generally high to extreme.

Vegetation is a typical foothill association in the lower elevations and mixed conifer in the higher elevations. winter range for the Bucks Mountain deer herd. owl territories are included. Evidence of prehistoric land use is found throughout the management area.

Recreational use consists of camping and fishing, primarily in the vicinity of Milsap Bar, a developed campground on the south side of the river. It is served by the only road that crosses the Wild and Scenic River between the Quincy-LaF'orte Road crossing and Oroville Reservoir. The river is managed primarily for its scenic qualities and related recreational use. The Hartman Bar and Hunter Ravine Trails and the Little California Mine 4-Wheel Drive road are the other routes to the river. River. Parts of the Middle Fork and the Bald Rock unroaded areas are present.

Portions of the "Bear Gulch" and "Berry Creek" grazing allotments are present. The latter is used in conjunction with private lands, the former is transitory, and grazing use of both is insignificant. Logging has occurred in a few areas, mostly along the western periphery, and the remainder is roadless.

Mining occurred extensively along the Middle Fork during the mid 1800's, obscuring evidence of prehistoric and ethnographic activities. Recreational dredging and panning now occurs in the Milsap Bar Scenic Zone.

Approximately 9,000 acres are Portions of two spotted

See also Area 9. lying on the opposite side of the Feather

4-159

MANAGEMENT AREA 8 Kellogg


Recreation Protect and enhance recreation use of the Middle Fork of the Feather River (la).

Provide f o r semi-primitive recreation (la).

Expand and improve the trail system (la).

Cultural Resources Preserve significant properties

Wildlife Protect and imDrove emDhasis species habitat (5a). -

Manage the Wild and Scenic Zones of the MFFR consistent with the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act: employ Rx-2.

Allow motorized use in the Wild Zone only on the Little California Mine 4WD trail.

Establish and enforce occupancy rules, as needed, in Milsap Bar Scenic Zone.

Maintain the semi-primitive character of the Middle Fork and Bald Rock unroaded areas: employ Rx-8.

Nominate the Hartman Bar Trail as a National Recreation Trail when right-of-way across private land is secured. Reconstruct and replace facilities to meet planned uses.

Convert Hunters Ravine Rd. in the Wild and Scenic River area to a trail.

Establish endpoint on Dome Trail and sign accordingly.

Interpret, as appropriate, Maidu religious sites.

For projects affecting the MFFR Wild Trout Stream, coordinate with Calif. DFG.

4-160

MANAGEMENT AREA 8 Kellogg

GENERAL DIRECTION

Range Suspend range use on areas valued fo r other purposes (6a).

Fac i l i t i e s Upgrade fores t arterials and col lectors (l7a).

Special Areas Protect unique scenic values (20b).

Protect unique scenic and botanic values (20b).

STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES

Provide su i tab le Peregrine Falcon habi ta t i n the Bald Rock Dome area of compartment 419.

Maintain o r enhance deer winter range i n TC's 419 and 443.

Eliminate the Bear Gulch and Berry Creek allotments.

Improve the Milsap campground access road as use s tudies show need t o meet demand.

Continue special management of the Feather Fa l l s Scenic Area (formal Special In t e re s t Area); employ Rx-3. Recommend designa- t ion of Feather Fa l l s as a Fa l l s as a National Natural Landmark.

I n i t i a t e a study to determine the s u i t a b i l i t y of Fa l l River from Nelson's Crosing t o Lake Oroville f o r inclusion i n the Wild and Scenic River System. Employ Rx-3 u n t i l study 'is complete.

Preserve the champion ponderosa pine adjacent t o the Hartman Bar Trai l : employ Rx-7.

4-161


Prescriptions Acres Rx-2. Wild and Scenic River 4592 Rx-3. Feather Falls Scenic Area 5352 Rx-7. Minimal Management 759 Rx-8. Semi-primitive Area 1927 Rx-9. Riparian 1/ 650 Rx-10. Visual Retention 180 Rx-12. Spotted O w l Habitat 950 Rx-14. Visual P a r t i a l Retention 208 Rx-15. Timber Emphasis 1967

Total 15 I 935


Species Territories Compartment Comments Spotted O w l 4 411,419,420 SOHA'S L-l,L-2.L-3,P-2;

424,431 overlaps MA's #4 and 9. Peregrine Falcon 1 419- Bald Rock Dome


Species Compartment Penstemon personatus 424 Cypripedium californicum Viola tomentosa F r i t i l l a r i a eastwoodae

431 420 419




Allotment Name Grazing Strategy

Bear Gulch Berry Creek

- - - - - - - - 1/ Acreage overlaps other Rx.

Eliminate Eliminate

4-162

Figure 4-4

Feather Falls Scenic Area

T 21 N, R 6 E

LaPorte Ranger District

Management Area

9. Kennedy

10. Feather Falls

11. Challenge

12. Pinchard

13. Lost Creek

14. Sawmill

15. Little Grass

16. Beartrap

17. Poverty

18. Turkeytown

4-167

4-171

4-179

4-185

4-189

4-197

4-203

4-211

4-217

4-221

4-165

T 22 N, R 7 E

Management Area # 9

Kennedy

~

4-166

MANAGEMENT AREA 9

Kennedy

Dis t r ic t : La Porte Acreage 7,113 Total 7,047 o r 99% PNF

Description

The Kennedy Management Area is located between the Middle Fork of the Feather River and Hartman B a r Ridge from Milsap Bar t o Table Mountain. The area is largely i n Plumas County, except fo r 836 acres i n Butte County.

Terrain consists of steep slopes dropping i n t o the Middle Fork Canyon. Elevation ranges from 1,600 t o 6,100 fee t . Soi l s are granitic and are mostly shallow and highly erodible. high t o extreme.

Vegetation consists of mixed conifers i n combination with hardwoods. Two 5,000 acre f i r e s have burned i n t h i s area. has been low. large f i r e potent ia l ex is t s . u t i l i z e s the area below 3,500 feet for winter range. spotted owl t e r r i t o r i e s a re included.

The Middle Fork is a federally-designated Wild and Scenic River and a California Wild Trout Stream. It supports an excellent f ishery with high populations of rainbow and brown trout . See also Area 8 on the opposite s ide of the Feather River.

Four t r a i l s , including the Hartman B a r National Recreation T r a i l t raverse the area. No developed campgrounds are provided. Middle Fork unroaded area is i n the area.

A portion of the act ive "Fal l River" range allotment is i n t h i s un i t . Very l i t t l e logging has occurred here because of the terrain and the Wild and Scenic River. employed longspan cable and helicopter yarding.

During the gold rush, placer mining occurred on the Middle Fork; however, the Wild and Scenic River designation now precludes mining i n the Wild Zone. Recreation gold panning and mining occur i n the Scenic Zone.

The landslide r i s k is generally

Although fire frequency

Pa r t s of s i x The Mooretown deer herd

Pa r t of the

Limited ridgetop logging at the south boundary

4-167

MANAGEMENT AREA 9 Kennedy


Recreation Protect and enhance recreation use of the Middle Fork of the Feather River (la) .

Provide f o r dispersed recreation ( la) .

Provide for semi-primitive recreation (la) .

Cultural Resources Protect s i g n i f i c a n t propert ies and in te rpre t s e l ec t ed h i s t o r i c a l and N.R. p roper t ies (3a) .

Wildlife Protect and improve emphasis species h a b i t a t (5a).

Manage the Wild and Scenic Zones consistent with the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act; employ Rx-2.

Continue special management of the Feather Fa l l s Scenic Area; employ Rx-3.

Maintain the character of the Middle Fork semi-primitive area; employ Rx-8.

Protect and provide interpre- ta t ion of the Kennedy Cabin and Gravesite area.

For projects affecting the MFFR Wild Trout Stream, coordinate with Calif. DFG . Maintain or enhance deer summer and winter range fo r the Mooretown deer herd.

4-168


Prescriptions Acres Rx-2. Wild and Scenic River 2762 Rx-7. Minimal Management 272 Rx-8. Semi-primitive Area 3269 Rx-9. Ripar ian 11 354 Rx-10. Visual Retention 220 Rx-14. Visual Pa r t i a l Retention 396 Rx-15. Timber Emphasis 128

Total 7.047


Species Terr i tor ies Compartment Comments Spotted O w l 2 320,342 SOHA's L-2.P-2: overlaps


Species Compartment Penstemon personatus 324

SERAL STAGE ( D I V E R S I T Y ) TARGETS

Habitat Type Target Acres (Minimum) Per Stage Black oak 90 Mixed conifer 262


Allotment Name Grazing Strategy F a l l River B


4-169

T 20 N, R 6 E

Management Area # I O

Feather Falls

0 b2

MANAGEMENT AREA 10

Feather Falls

District: i Porte

Description

:reage: 25,540 Total 20.236 or 79% PNF

The Feather Falls Management Area extends southeast of the Middle Fork of the Feather River through Feather Falls to Forbestown. is in Butte County, with 309 acres in Plumas County and 485 acres in Yuba County. Prominent features are Watson Ridge, Mooreville Ridge, Fields Ridge, Feather Falls on the Fall River, South Branch Falls on the South Branch of the Feather River, and Bald Rock Canyon on the Middle Fork of the Feather River. The communities of Feather Falls and Forbestown and a portion of the Middle Fork Wild and Scenic River, are included.

Terrain consists of steep slopes and broad ridgetops. from 900 to 4,200 feet. metamorphic rock and are moderately to very highly erodible. Instability problems are present along deeply incised drainages. area drains into both the Middle and South Forks of the Feather River.

Vegetation consists of mixed conifers and ponderosa pine, mixed with commercial hardwoods. Brush and digger pine are present, as well as oak-madrone associations. Lower elevation climate and frequent high wind have contributed to large damaging fires in the past. The area below 3,500 feet is winter deer range and bald eagle habitat, contains summer and winter range of the Mooretown deer herd. of two spotted owl territories are included. The Middle Fork, a California Wild Trout Stream and a federally-designated Wild and Scenic River, has a high population of trout. contain moderate numbers of trout, except for the South Branch which also supports a large population.

Cultural resources include prehistoric sites, religious areas, two Konkow Indian rancherias, and centers of early mining, logging, and trading.

A large portion of the Feather Falls Scenic Area, the Bald Rock unroaded area, and four major trails, including the Feather Falls National Recreation Trail, are present. northwest corner of the area.

The majority

Elevations range Soils are derived from both granitic and

The

The area Portions

Most other streams in the area

The Konkow still use this area for food gathering.

The Milsap Bar Campground is in the

4-171

A portion of t he "Fall River" range allotment is i n t h i s unit . management is intensive on commercial forest land outside of the unroaded and Feather Fa l l s scenic areas. helicopter i n the unroaded area.

Major mining occurred i n the area around Forbestown. consists of small suction dredging.

A 115 KV transmission l i n e from the Woodleaf Powerhouse crosses the southern portion of the area.

Timber

Dead trees were salvaged by

Present mining

MANAGEMENT AREA 10 Feather Falls

~ ~


Recreation Protect and enhance recreation use of the Middle Fork of the Feather River (la).

Provide for semi-primitive recreation (la).

Expand and improve the trail system (la).

Allow ORV's wherever user conflict or resource damage is unlikely (Ib)

Provide developed recreation facilities/programs to meet demand (la).


Cultural Resources Protect significant properties and interpret selected historical and N.R. properties (3a).

Wildlife Protect and improve emphasis species habitat (5a).

Manage the Wild and Scenic Zones consistent with the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act: employ Rx-2.

Maintain the character of the Bald Rock semi-primitive area: employ Rx-8.

Continue construction of the Feather Falls-Milsap Bar trail.

Prohibit ORV's below the MFFR canyon rim, on the Feather Falls NRT, and the South Branch Falls Trail.

Improve the Milsap Bar Cmpgrd. road and water systems: employ h - 6 .

Apply Rx-10 and Rx-14 to the Feather Falls and Forbestown Roads viewsheds.

Develop an interpretation and protection plan for the area. Interpret cultural resources at the Feather Falls NRT. Reestablish the Milsap Bar Cmpgrd. interpretive signs, and develop a cultural resource protection plan specific to the campground.

For projects affecting the MFFR Wild Trout Stream, coordinate with Calif. DFG.



Maintain or enhance deer winter range i n TC 304.

Water Improve water aua1it.v t o meet S ta t e Assure tha t S t a t e and Federal objectives (10;) .

Lands Consolidate ownership and dispose of designated lands (16a).

F a c i l i t i e s Upgrade f o r e s t arterials and col lectors (l7a) .

Provide cos t -e f f ic ien t support facil i t ies (174 .

agencies es tab l i sh the acceptable l eve l of the PCB i n Ponderosa Reservoir and have ex is t ing sources of contamination reduced i f needed.

Consider making i so la ted NF lands i n T lg , R6, sec. 2, 3 , 11, 14, 15, and 16; i n T20, R6 , sec. 24; i n T20. R 7 , sec. 9. 18; and T21, R7. sec. 21, 29, 31. except for winter deer range, available for exchange.

Reconstruct and surface the Lumpkin Road as p a r t of t h e Forest highway program.

Cooperate with Butte Co. and Louisiana-Pacific t o eliminate or exchange the Swain H i l l Co. Rd.

Manage Sunset H i l l f o r PNF and service radio communications.

Construct san i ta t ion f a c i l i t i e s near the junction of the Feather Fa l l s and Jackson Ranch Trai ls .

4-174



Special Areas Protect unique scenic values (20b). Continue special management of the

Feather Fa l l s Scenic Area (formal Special In t e re s t Area) ; employ Rx-3. Recommend t o the U.S.D.I. designation of Feather Fa l l s as a National Natural Landmark.

I n i t i a t e a study t o determine the s u i t a b i l i t y of Fa l l River from Nelson's Crossing t o Lake Oroville f o r inclusion i n the Wild and Scenic River system. Employ Rx-3 u n t i l study is complete.


Prescriptions Acres Rx-2. Wild and Scenic River 615 Rx-3. Rx-6. Rx-7. Rx-8. Rx-9. Rx-lo. Rx-11. Rx-12. Rx-14. RX-15.

Feather F a l l s Scenic Area Developed Recreation S i t e Minimal Management Semi-primitive Area Riparian 1/ Visual Retention Bald Eagle Habitat Spotted Owl Habitat Visual P a r t i a l Retention Timber Emphasis

6189 3

1206 636 791

1426 473

2200 1779

5709 Tota l 20,236


Species Te r r i t o r i e s Compartment Comments Spotted O w l 4 304.313 SOHA'S B-l.C-2.L-2.L-3;

overlaps MA's #4,8,9,13,

Bald Eagle 1 304 32, and 35. Potent ia l t e r r i t o r y and winter habi ta t i n South Fork A r m


Species Compartment F r i t i l l a r i a eastwoodiae 304



RANGE ALLOTMENT STRATEGIES Allotment N a m e Grazing Strategy

Fal l River B

------- - 1/ Acreage overlaps other Rx.

4-176

T 19 N, R 7 E

Management Area # 11

LAND MANAGEMENT AREA 11

Challenge

District: La Porte Acreage: 37,699 Total 20,611 or 55% PNF

Description

The Challenge Management Area is w e s t and north of Bullards Bar Reservoir on the Yuba River. Most of the area is i n Yuba County, but 1,968 acres are i n But te County and 270 acres are i n Plumas County. Prominent features include the Challenge Experimental Forest and Pike County and Oregon Peaks. Areas adjacent t o the Forest are rapidly urbanizing.

Terrain consists of steep slopes and broad ridgetops. from 2.000 to 4,200 feet . Canyon Creek on the northeast boundary, and the lower reaches of S la t e Creek. Soi l erodibi l i ty is low t o moderate. Mass i n s t a b i l i t y ranges from low i n the f l a t t e r areas to high i n deep canyons and areas of deeply-weathered s o i l .

Vegetation consists of pine and mixed conifers with s ignif icant stands of commercial hardwood. the Yuba River Canyon maximize f ire spread potent ia l , ye t fire frequency has been low. and winter range fo r the Mooretown deer herd, habi ta t fo r wintering bald eagles on Bullards B a r Reservoir, and a spotted owl te r r i to ry . streams support modest populations of brown and rainbow trout. However, heavy sedimentation from gold mining has dras t ica l ly reduced the t rout population i n the lower reaches of S la t e Creek.

Recreation is mostly dispersed. Bullards B a r Reservoir.

Portions of the “ M t . Fillmore” and ”Strawberry Valley” range allotments are i n t h i s unit . Numerous timber and hardwood fuel sales occur here, and timber management is intensive. Moderately deep t o deep s o i l s here are some of the most productive on the Forest and i n the State . Fuelwood gathering is also s igni f icant .

Numerous towns and m i l l sites sprang up throughout the area after gold discovery i n 1848 at Foster B a r . and a moderate t o high leve l of mining continues.

Bullards Bar Reservoir and Woodleaf Power House are sources of hydroelectric power. Deadwood Creek, and Sla te Creek.

Elevations range Major drainages include the North Yuba River,

Ladder fue ls and the s teep brushy slopes of

The area contains major b lackta i l deer migration routes

Most

The Burnt Bridge campground is near

Most occurs near Race Track Point along the Yuba River.

Other power projects are proposed at Wambo B a r ,

4-179

MANAGF,MENT AREA 11 Challenge


Recreation Efficiently manage recreation Rely on the Tahoe NF to administer at Bullards Bar Reservoir (la) . Provide developed recreation facilities/programs to meet employ Rx-6. demand (la).

the reservoir and its shoreline.

Maintain the Burnt Bridge Cmpgrd;

Maintain the Skinner Trail.

Insure adequate access to the Wambo Bar area through project permit requirements.

Visual Resources Maintain pleasing visual corridors (2a). Bullards Bar Reservoir and

Apply Rx-10 and Rx-14 to the

Marysville-La Porte Road.

Wildlife Protect and improve emphasis Provide suitable habitat for species habitat (5a). wintering band-tailed pigeons

in TC's 306 and 307.

Timber Continue management of the experimental forest (7a).

Maintain or enhance deer winter range for the Mooretown and Downieville herds in TC's 301, 302. 303, and 343. Maintain or enhance deer summer range habitat and migration corridors for the Mooretown deer herd

Continue current designation of Challenge Experimental Forest; employ Rx-4.

Water Rehabilitate selected deteriorating Rehabilitate the Slate and Canyon watersheds to improve water quality Creek watersheds to improve water (lob). quality sufficient for the bene-

ficial uses in cooperation with Calif. DFG and other land owners.

4-180

MANAGEMENT AREA 11 Challenge


Minerals and Materials Provide for recreational gold panning and dredging (l3a).

Lands Consolidate ownership and dispose of designated lands (16a).

Facilities Provide cost-efficient support facilities (17a).

Recommend withdrawal from mineral entry: Slate Creek, from its junction with the North Fork of the Yuba River, upstream 112 mile.

Consider making NF lands in T18. R7, sec. 28, 34 except winter deer range, available for exchange.

Reconstruct the Pike County lookout as a PNF microwave facility.

Construct a PNF microwave facility at the Challenge RS.

Construct a crossing on Deadwood Creek in association with timber access.

Study exchange of the Challenge District Office, or other reloca- tion of office, to reduce forestwide fixed cost.

Develop and implement site improvements at the Challenge Work Center to support program activities.

4-181


Prescriptions Acres Rx-4. Challenge Experimental Forest 3741 Rx-6. Developed Recreation S i t e 1 Rx-7. Minimal Management 1318 Rx-9. Riparian 1/ 879 Rx-10. Visual Retention 1747 Rx-11. Bald Eagle Habitat 456 Rx-12. Spotted O w l Habitat 1155 Rx-14. Visual P a r t i a l Retention 4661 Rx-15. Timber Emphasis 7532

Total 20611


Species Te r r i t o r i e s Compartment Comments Bald Eagle 2 301,302,306 Potent ia l nesting and -

wintering habi ta t at Bullard's B a r Reservoir.

ovelaps MA #l3. Spotted O w l 2 301,303,306 SOHA'S A-1 and B-2;


Species Compartment Cypripedium fasciculatum 303




Allotment Name Grazing S t r a t em Mount Fillmore B Strawberry Valley B

- 1f Acreage overlaps o ther Rx.

T 22 N, R 8 E

Management Area a12

Pinchard

4-184

MANAGEMENT AREA 12

Pinchard

Distr ic t : La Porte Acreage: 22,193 Total 14.001 or 63% PNF

Description

The Pinchard Management Area is located southeast of Hartman B a r Ridge and northwest of Fa l l River i n Butte and Plumas Counties. Prominent features are Hartman B a r Ridge, Camel Peak, Table Mountain, Dogwood Peak, and Tamarack Flat . Scenic River is included.

Terrain consists of steep slopes and broad ridgetops. Elevations range from 3,360 t o 6,100 feet. of the Middle Fork of the Feather River. Soi l s are moderately deep and highly erodible. In s t ab i l i t y r i s k is low except on steep slopes of the Hartman Bar Ridge.

Vegetation consists of large stands of mixed conifer, t rue fir, and brush. Devastating fires influenced by frequent strong ridge winds occurred i n the 20's and 30's. The Mooretown deer herd u t i l i z e s the en t i r e area, primarily fo r summer range. Goshawk and spotted owl territories are here. The headwaters of the South Branch of the Middle Fork of the Feather River and Fa l l River are inhabited by modest numbers of rainbow and brown t rou t , and populations increase downstream.

Recreation i s dispersed and no developed f a c i l i t i e s are avai lable on PNF land.

A portion of the "Fal l River" range allotment i s i n t h i s area. management i s intensive f o r both green and salvage timber sales. are moderately t o highly productive.

From the ear ly 1850's. gold mining was common along the area's drainages, and some loca l ly h i s t o r i c s t ruc tures were located at Cascade, Franklin H i l l , Morgan B a r , and Mountain Spring House. Small suction dredging i s now common and a large-scale limestone quarry has been proposed on Hartman Bar Ridge.

A very s m a l l p a r t of the Middle Fork Wild and

Much of the area drains in to the South Branch

Part of the Middle Fork unroaded area is present.

Timber Soils

Fuelwood gathering a l so occurs.

4-185

MANAGEMENT AREA 12 Pinchard


Recreation Protect and enhance recreation use of t h e Middle Fork of the Feather River ( la) .

Provide for semi-primitive recrea t ion ( l a ) .

Wildlife Pro tec t and improve emphasis species h a b i t a t (5a).

Consolidate ownershiD and disuose of designated lands -(16a).

F a c i l i t i e s Provide cost-efficient support f a c i l i t i e s ( 1 7 4 .

Manage the Wild Zone consistent with the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act; employ Rx-2. Allow O R V ' s on the Stag Point 4WD trail .

Maintain the character of the Middle Fork semi-primitive area: employ Rx-8.

For projects affecting the MFFR Wild Trout Stream, coordinate with C a l i f . DFG.

Maintain or enhance deer summer range habi ta t and migration corr i - dors fo r the Mooretown deer herd.

Consider making NF lands i n T21, R7. sec. 10, 11.12. 13, 21. 24; T21, R7 1/2; T21, R8, sec. 5, 6, 7. 18 available f o r exchange.

Upgrade the Pinchard Creek Admin. S i t e water, u t i l i t y , and road systems.

4-186


Prescriptions Acres Rx-2. Wild and Scenic River 218 Rx-7. Minimal Management 198 Rx-8. Semi-primitive Non-Motorized Area 1163 Rx-9. Riparian 1/ Rx-10. Visual Retention Rx-13. Goshawk Habitat Rx-14. Visual Partial Retention Rx-15. Timber Emphasis

584 452 100 889

10981

Total 14001


Species Territories Compartment Comments Goshawk 2 314,322


Species Compartment Penstemon personatus 321 Vaccinium coccinium 314,321,322,325


Habitat Type Target Acres (Minimum) Per Stage Black oak 23 Red fir 8 Lodgepole Mixed conifer

11 658


Allotment Name Grazing Strategy Fall River B

- 11 Acreage overlaps other Rx.

MANAGEMENT AREA 13

Lost Creek

District: La Porte Acreage: 57,244 Total 28.074 or 49% PNF

Description

The Lost Creek Management area is between Fall River on the northwest, Slate Creek on the southeast, and Little Grass Valley Reservoir on the northeast. It is in Butte, Plumas, and Yuba Counties. Intervening private lands are substantial. Prominent features are Lumpkin. Mooreville and Harrison Ridges, Lexington Hill, Lost Creek and Sly Creek Reservoirs, and the community of La Porte.

Terrain consists of steep slopes and broad ridgetops, and elevations range from 1,800 to 5,700 feet. Soils are deep and moderately to highly erodible. Risk of instability is generally low to moderate, except in the steep inner canyons. ridges drain to the Middle and South Forks of the Feather River and to the North Fork of the Yuba River.

Vegetation consists of mixed conifer and true fir stands and brushfields. Valley Reservoir, and blacktail deer of the Mooretown herd utilize the entire area, primarily for summer range. territories are included. Due to extensive hydroelectric development only modest populations of trout occur. Feather River and Lost Creek have some isolated thriving populations.

The establishment of the Marysville-Onion Valley Road, and later the Marysville-La Porte Road, opened this area for settlement in 1850, and several small towns and inns were established along the way. Four developed recreation sites are located on the peninsula of Little Grass Valley Reservoir (see Area #15 also).

Portions of the "Fall River", "Little Grass Valley" and "Strawberry Valley" range allotments are in this area. Fall River and Strawberry Valley are active, but Little Grass is inactive due to livestock control problems and conflicts with recreation. Timber management is intensive for green sawtimber, and productivity is moderate to high.

Extensive hydraulic and placer mining occurred in the La Porte area. Two large-scale gold mines and several small placer operations currently exist.

Streams paralleling the southwest-trending

Bald eagle and osprey habitat exists at Little Grass

Portions of three spotted owl

However, the South Fork of the

MANAGEMENT AREA 13 Lost Creek


Recreation Provide developed recreation faci l i t ies /programs t o meet demand ( la ) .

Provide f o r semi-primitive recreat ion ( l a ) .

Visual Resources Maintain pleasing v isua l corridors ( 2 4 .

Cultural Resources Protect s ign i f i can t properties and i n t e r p r e t se lec ted h i s t b r i c a l and N.R. p roper t ies (3a) .

Wildlife Protect and improve emphasis species h a b i t a t (5a).

Maintain the L i t t l e Grass Valley and Sly Creek Recreation Areas; employ Fk-5 and -6. Expand existing campgrounds as needed.

Maintain the character of the semi-primitive area; employ Fk-8.

Apply Rx-10 and Rx-14 to the L i t t l e Grass Valley Reservoir and Road, and the Sly Creek Reservoir viewsheds.

Protect and provide interpretat ion of resources i n the L i t t l e Grass Valley area.

Maintain or enhance flows and improve trout habi ta t i n Lost Creek and the South Fork Feather River.

Maintain or enhance deer summer range habi ta t fo r the Mooretown deer herd. Protect or enhance migration corridors on Lumpkin and Mooreville Ridges.

Maintain or enhance pine marten habitat capabili ty near Grass Valley Reservoir i n timber compartment 316.

Range Suspend range use on areas valued for other purposes (6a). developed recreation sites at

Exclude livestock from the

L i t t l e Grass Valley Reservoir. Examine the v i a b i l i t y of the L i t t l e Grass Valley Allotment.

4-190



Water Rehabili tate selected deteriorating watersheds t o improve water quali ty (lob).

Minerals and Materials Provide fo r recreational gold panning and dredging (l3a).

Withdraw important Forest material sources from mineral entry (l3a).

Protect unique botanic and scenic values (l3a).

Lands Consolidate ownership and dispose of designated lands (16a) .

F a c i l i t i e s UDErade fores t arterials and cbilectors (17a).

Take management action based on t h i s review.

Rehabilitate the Slate Creek and South Fork Feather River watersheds t o improve water quali ty su f f i - c ient fo r the beneficial uses i n cooperation with C a l i f . DFG and other land owners.

Recommend withdrawal from mineral entry: South Fork Feather River from 1/4 mile above Golden Trout Crossing t o 1 /4 m i l e below it, and Sla te Creek for approximately one m i l e i n Sec. 31, T.21, R .9 .

Recommend withdrawal from mineral entry: S i t e #53-19 - "Secret Diggings" S i t e #53-5 - "Barnards Diggings" S i t e #53-2 - "Upper Dutch Diggings" S i t e #53-1 - "Slate Ck. Gravels".

Recommend withdrawal of the Valley Creek area from mineral entry (see Special Areas).

Consider making NF lands i n T20, R7, Sec. 15 and T21, R8, Sec. 9 , 17. 19, and 30. except for winter deer range, available for exchange.

Improve Black Rock Road and other arterials and col lectors incorpor- a t ing t h i s with the L a Porte-Quincy Road as par t of the Forest Highway system.



Provide cos t - e f f i c i en t support Develop a site plan and construct faci l i t ies (17a). a PNF microwave f a c i l i t y at the

Lexington H i l l Lookout.

Continue f a c i l i t y upgrading at the Strawberry and L a Porte Admin. S i t e s and the La Porte trailer park: es tabl ish FA0 and project p r i o r i t i e s .

Replace the log s t r inge r bridge on Rock Creek.

Special Areas Protect unique botan ica l and scenic values (20b).

Classify the 180 acre Valley Creek old growth mixed conifer stand as a Botanical area (formal Special I n t e r e s t Area s ta tus) : employ Rx-7. Manage vegetation only t o perpetuate old-growth. Harvest timber only as needed t o protect the stand. Obli terate the old road across Valley Creek t o the northern portion of the stand.

Preserve the grove of large sugar pine on Mooreville Ridge (approx. 7 l a rge trees): employ Rx-7. Develop a clear , signed boundary t o encompass the grove.

4-192

T 2 1 N , R 8 / 9 E

Valley Creek Botanical Area

4-193


Prescriptions Acres Fix-5. Recreation Area 1270 Fix-6. Developed Recreation S i t e 2 Fix-7. Minimal Management 2456 Fix-8. Semi-primitive Area 16 Fix-9. Riparian 1/ 1044 Fix-10. Visual Retention 3088 Fix-11. Bald Eagle Habitat 330 Rx-12. Spotted O w l Habitat 2550 Fix-13. Goshawk Habitat 50 Fix-14. Visual P a r t i a l Retention 6757 Fix-15. Timber Emphasis 11555

Total 28,074


Species Te r r i t o r i e s Compartment Comments Bald Eagle 2 305,309,315 L i t t l e Grass Valley & Sly

Creek/Lost Creek Reservoirs Spotted O w l 4 305,309.315 SOHA'S B-l .C- l ,C-2 ,C-3; Goshawk 1 316 overlaps MA's #11, 18, & 33


Species Compartment

Cypripedium fasciculatum 309 Vaccinium coccinium 323,310


Habitat Type Target Acres (Minimum) Per Stage Black oak 28 Mixed conifer Ponderosa pine Red f ir

1304 27

6

-- -- - - - - I/ Acreage overlaps other Fix.

4-194

Management Area 13 (cont) PRESCRIPTION ALLOCATION


Allotment Name Grazing Strategy Fall River B Little Grass Valley Mount Fillmore Strawberry Valley

B B B

4-195

T 23 N. R 9 E

Management Area # I 4

Sawmill

MANAGEMEW ARM 14

Sawmill

District: La Porte Acreage: 27,300 Total

Description

The Sawmill Management Area extends southeast of the Middle Fork of the Feather River between Dogwood Peak and the Fingerboard to Fowler Peak and Onion Valley, all in Plumas County. Peak Washington Hill, the Hogback, Sawmill Flat, and the Middle Fork, a federally-designated Wild and Scenic River.

Terrain consists of steep slopes and broad ridgetops. from 2,800 to 6,800 feet. Soils are moderately to highly erodible. Debris slides are common on the steep canyon slopes. drains to the Middle Fork via Onion Valley Creek o r several smaller streams.

Vegetation consists of true fir and mixed conifers with scattered brushfields. Approximately 2,000 acres are Mooretown Deer Herd winter range, and the entire area is summer range. A part of a bald eagle management zone and parts of two spotted owl territories are included. The Middle Fork and Nelson Creek, State-designated Wild Trout Streams, have high populations of trout. Other streams provide important spawning habitat and high water quality for these two major streams. Fowler Lake the only natural lake on the District, has a large population of green sunfish.

The area has mostly dispersed recreation, including camping, hiking, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. The Pacific Crest Trail traverses the area, and four Forest trails and the Cleghorn Bar jeep trail extend to the Middle Fork. Part of the Middle Fork unroaded area is included.

Portions of the "Fall River", "Little Grass Valley", and "Onion Valley" range allotments are in this unit. cattle allotments. Little Grass is inactive due to livestock control problems and conflicts with recreation. an inactive sheep allotment. commercial forest land outside of the roadless area. helicopter has occurred in the steep areas of the Middle Fork and Onion Valley drainages.

Gold mines, camps, and towns were frequent in this area, primarily along Nelson Creek, the Middle Fork, and Onion Valley Creek. They are now largely abandoned, but a moderate to high amount of dredging for gold in the streams continues.

25,224 o r 93% PNF

Prominent features are Fowler

Elevations range

All of the area

Fall River and Little Grass are

Onion Valley is

Salvage logging by Timber management is intensive on

4-197

MANAGEMENT AREA 14 Sawmill


Recreation Protect and enhance recreation use of t h e Middle Fork of the Feather River ( la) .

Provide for semi-primitive recrea t ion (la) . Allow ORV's wherever user conf l ic t or resource damage is unlikely (1b).


Cul tural Resources Pro tec t s ign i f icant properties and i n t e r p r e t selected h i s to r i ca l and N.R. propert ies (3a).

Wildl i fe Pro tec t and improve emphasis species hab i t a t (5a).

Range Expand productivity on a sustained- y i e l d basis (6c).

Suspend range uses on areas valued f o r o the r purposes (6a).

Manage the Wild Zone consistent with Wild and Scenic River Act: employ Rx-2. Continue 4WD designation of the Cleghorn Bar Road.

Maintain the character of the Middle Fork semi-primitive area: employ Rx-8.

Prohibit O R V ' s below the MFFR Canyon R i m except on Cleghorn Bar Road.

Apply Rx-10 and Rx-14 t o the MFFR and Quincy-La Porte Road viewsheds, and PCT.

Protect and provide interpretat ion of h i s to r i ca l sites i n the Middle Fork, Sawpit F la t , and Onion Valley areas.

For projects affecting the MFFR Wild Trout Stream, coordinate with Calif . DFG.

Maintain or enhance deer summer and winter range habi ta t f o r the Mooretown Herd.

Evaluate and accordingly adjust the allotment boundary between Fa l l River and L i t t l e Grass Valley.

Establish and monitor condition and trend transects and complete and analysis t o determine the long

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MANAGEMENT AREA 14 Sawmill


Water Immove water yield i n the Red F i r

Minerals and Materials Provide for recreational gold Panning and dredgmg (13a).

Protect unique ecologic values (134.

F a c i l i t i e s Upgrade fores t arterials and co l lec tors (174 .

Special Areas Protect unique geologic, scenic, and ecologic values (20b).

term s t a tus of the Onion Valley Allotment.

Examine the v i a b i l i t y of the L i t t l e Grass Allotment and e i the r r e t a in , abandon, or combine the allotment with surrounding allotments.

See Forestwide Standards and Guidelines: WATER Water Use and Need.

Recommend withdrawal from mineral entry: Onion Valley Creek from the Quincy-La Porte Road downstream 1/2 m i l e .

Recommend withdrawal from mineral entry: the Fowler L a k e area.

Reconstruct the Quincy-La Porte Road as pa r t of the Forest Highway System.

Upgrade the Fingerboard Admin. S i t e water and san i ta t ion systems.

Preserve and enhance the Fowler Lake area: employ Rx-7. Close ex is t ing road access t o Fowler Lake and study the area fo r ORV closure. Provide direct ional signing from the PCT. Maintain a forage f i s h base for wi ld l i fe .

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Prescriptions Acres Rx-2. Wild and Scenic River 1875 Rx-7. Minimal Management 1440 Rx-8. Semi-primitive Area Rx-9. Riparian 1/ Rx-10. Visual Retention Rx-12. Spotted O w l Habitat Rx-13. Goshawk Habitat Rx-14. Visual Partial Retention Rx-15. Timber Emphasis

8835 1123 2872 2160 50

1981 6011

Total 25,224


Species Territories Compartment Comments Spotted Owl 3 326,334,341 SOHA'S G-3,K-1 ,K-2,K-3

and 342 Goshawk 1 326


Species Compartment Arabis constancei 335.341 Lupinum dalesiae Lewisia cantelowii Cypripedium californicum


Habitat Type Black oak 96

Target Acres (Minimum) Per Stage

Mixed conifer io82 Red fir 72


Allotment Name Grs Fall River Little Grass Valley Onion Valley


ing Strat B B B

31

4-200

T 2 2 N . R Q E

Management Area # I5

Little Grass

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wild and scenic river...

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