Wildlife Specialist report

Action Alternatives (C, D, E, F, and G): Under all action alternatives motorized cross
country travel (see assumption) is no longer allowed. The change from the existing
condition is a 100% reduction in motorized cross country travel. Motorized dispersed
camping is reduced by 97 to 100% under all action alternatives. Area of potentially
affected habitat for motorized big game retrieval is reduced by 100% under Alternative E,
99% under Alternative D and G, 50% under Alternative F, and 19% under Alternative C.
Motorized areas are locations where we have had traditional uses like motorized camping
and OHV use. Under all action alternatives this type of use is not allowed in this analysis
area. There would be no direct or indirect effects to bighorn sheep from motorized areas.
Miles of motorized routes and trails and acres of potentially affected habitat within the
analysis area are reduced by approximately 51% under Alternative E; 27% under
Alternative D; 26% under Alternative G; and 0% under Alternative F. Under Alternative
C motorized routes are increased by 3%. The greater the reduction in miles in the
analysis areas the less the potential for direct and indirect effects; the reduction in direct
and indirect effects to the species and its habitat is relative to the amount of miles reduced
in the analysis areas.
Findings:
Table 16 Bighorn sheep Forest Service sensitive species determination by alternative
Sensitive
Species
Alt. B
Existing Condition
Determination by Alternative
Alt. C Alt. D Alt. E Alt. F Alt. G
Bighorn Sheep MI MI MI MI MI
Rationale For
Determination
*MI – May impact
Under all action alternatives the potential effects to bighorn sheep are reduced, particularly
under alternatives E, D, and G. The potential to affect individuals still exists; therefore, a
determination of may impact individuals is made. None of the action alternatives will impact
the viability of this species or cause a trend toward Federal listing.
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