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Biological Assessment and Biological Evaluation Potters Canyon Veratrum Project

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Contents

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 1

Description of the Proposal ............................................................................................................. 1

Summary of the Proposed Action ................................................................................................1

Purpose and Need ........................................................................................................................3

Project Area Description/Affected Environment .........................................................................3

Rocky Mountain-Vancouverian Subalpine & High Montane Mesic Grass &

Forb Meadow (USNVC 2016) ................................................................................................ 4

Evaluated Species Information ....................................................................................................... 5

Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species .......................................................5

Sensitive Plant, Terrestrial Wildlife, and Aquatic Species ............................................................. 5

Pre-Field Review and Survey Information ..................................................................................5

Species Descriptions and Analysis of Effects ............................................................................... 12

Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species ........................................................ 12

Sensitive Plant, Terrestrial Wildlife, and Aquatic Species ........................................................... 13

Northern Goshawk .....................................................................................................................13

Direct and Indirect Impacts ................................................................................................... 13

Cumulative Effects................................................................................................................ 14

Determination ....................................................................................................................... 15

Peregrine Falcon ........................................................................................................................15

Direct and Indirect Impacts ................................................................................................... 15


Determination ....................................................................................................................... 16

Spotted Bat .................................................................................................................................16

Direct and Indirect Effects .................................................................................................... 17


Determination ....................................................................................................................... 17

Determination of Effects ............................................................................................................... 18


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Threatened, endangered, proposed, and candidate species ........................................................19

Aquatic Wildlife Species ...................................................................................................... 19

Terrestrial Wildlife Species .................................................................................................. 19

Plant Species ......................................................................................................................... 19

Sensitive Terrestrial Wildlife, Plant, and Aquatic Species ........................................................19

Terrestrial Wildlife Species .................................................................................................. 19

Plant Species ......................................................................................................................... 20

Forest Plan Consistency, Discussion of Extraordinary Circumstances,

and Consideration of Best Available Science ............................................................................... 20

Forest Plan Consistency .............................................................................................................20

Consideration of Best Available Science ...................................................................................20

Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments ..............................................................................21

Literature Cited ............................................................................................................................. 22

Appendix 1: Figures

Appendix 2: Identified Past, Present, and Reasonably Foreseeable Actions

within the Cumulative Effects Analysis Area

Tables

Table 1. Federally listed and candidate animal and plant species that could occur

within the Potters project area in Sanpete County, Utah, and their consideration

in this biological assessment and biological evaluation (BA/BE). ............................... 6

Table 2. Sensitive animal and plant species that could occur within the project area

in Sanpete County, Utah, and their consideration within this biological assessment

and biological evaluation (BA/BE). .............................................................................. 9

Table 3. Summary of determination of effects. ........................................................................ 18

Figures

Figure 1. Percent of monitored northern goshawk nests that were occupied on the Manti

Division of the Manti-La Sal National Forest from 1995 through 2007. ................... 14


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Introduction The purpose of this Biological Assessment/Biological Evaluation (BA/BE) is to review the

potential effects of the Potters Canyon Veratrum californicum (known as corn lily or Veratrum)

harvest project on threatened, endangered, or proposed plant and animal species and to determine

whether consultation with the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is necessary. The

Endangered Species Act of 1973 (PL 93-205, as amended) requires federal agencies to ensure

that any activities they authorize, fund, or carry out, do not jeopardize the continued existence of

any wildlife species that are federally listed as Threatened or Endangered (Section 7).

Consultation with the USFWS is required if threatened or endangered species, or their critical

habitats, may be affected by proposed actions. This BA/BE is prepared in accordance with legal

requirements set forth under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1536 (c)) and

follows standards established in the Forest Service Manual (FSM 2671.2 and 2672.4).

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service has developed policy regarding the

designation of sensitive animal species (FSM 2670.32). Sensitive species are defined (FSM

2670.5) as those animal species identified by the Regional Forester for which population

viability is a concern as evidenced by: (1) significant current or predicted downward trends in

population numbers or density, or (2) significant current or predicted downward trends in habitat

capability that would reduce a species’ existing distribution. The BE is an analysis of which

sensitive wildlife species may occur in the project area and whether any impacts on these species

or their habitat are anticipated that would adversely affect their viability.

Description of the Proposal

Summary of the Proposed Action The Manti-La Sal National Forest, Ferron/Price Ranger District (Forest) is proposing to

authorize EcoPharm LLC (EcoPharm) to gather the roots of Veratrum. The proposed action is to

issue a special use permit allowing EcoPharm to harvest stands of Veratrum that are designated

by the Forest Service as suitable for harvest in Potters Canyon.

Location: East of Mount Pleasant, Utah, and 10 miles south of Huntington Reservoir at

the head of Potters Canyon, Township 15 S., Range 5 E., Section 25 and Section 36 and

Township 15 S., Range 6 E., Section 31. The action area is the open grass-forb meadows

of the bowl at the head of Potters Canyon and the grass-forb meadows immediately

adjacent to Forest Road 0271 as it approaches the open bowl of the upper canyon. The

area encompasses a total of approximately 600 acres.

Harvest Area: Areas of harvest will be strategically identified by EcoPharm in

conjunction with Forest Service personnel to not cause straight lines or square segments,

natural lines will be created to lessen the visibility of the area of disturbance.

Season of Operation: Late summer to early autumn annually, depending on weather and

soil conditions. Harvest will be limited to periods when the soils are moderately dry-to-

dry to prevent compaction.


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Production Rate: Approximately 10–12 acres per year over a period of up to 10 years

beginning in 2017, with potential to harvest up to 25 acres per year. Approximately 100

acres have been identified as suitable for harvest by EcoPharm in conjunction with Forest

Service personnel. Additional areas not to exceed 5 acres will be disturbed by temporary

roads, staging areas, and seasonal camping sites for harvest crews.

Harvest Procedure:

1. Standing vegetation will be mowed to near-ground level with a tractor-mounted

mower. Harvest disturbance areas will stay within areas containing Veratrum.

2. Lifting will be to a depth of approximately 14 inches of soil surface. Plant root

material will be uprooted and separated using a modified conventional under-

cutter (lifter). Only one pass with the lifter is anticipated; although rare

circumstances may require a second pass. Every effort will be made to limit the

number of passes the lifter takes to uproot plant root material. Additional hand

digging may be required to remove roots from hardened soil. The lifting

technique will include contour plowing, where possible, to inhibit soil erosion.

3. Extracted Veratrum roots will be removed from the harvest sites to staging areas

using equipment to minimize soil compaction. Veratrum roots will then be loaded

into larger vehicles to be hauled off the Forest.

4. Rehabilitation of harvest areas and temporary roads will occur in late fall. Seed

bed preparation (e.g., harrowing) may be needed to create a surface conducive to

drill seeding. Water bars will be established where needed to prevent erosion.

5. At the conclusion of ground-disturbing activities at a harvest site, EcoPharm will

fence the site in a manner to exclude livestock. Fencing will be maintained for a

period of at least 2 years. All fencing will be removed at the end of the project or

when the Forest Service determines it is no longer needed.

Design Features Appropriate to Wildlife:

1. Reclaimed disturbance areas will be monitored annually in late summer each year

of harvest for weeds, invasive species, and reseeding success. The seeding mix

will meet or exceed Forest Service standards and will be approved by the Forest

Service prior to reseeding. If reclaimed areas are found to be dominated by weeds

or invasive species, they will then be treated as prescribed by the Forest Service.

2. No perennial stream crossings or disturbances are anticipated for this project.

Intermittent and ephemeral drainages with any of the following characteristics

will have a 15-foot buffer to prevent erosion and sedimentation

3. The crossing of intermittent and ephemeral drainages will be facilitated by

temporarily installing culverts or by simply laying some logs or other material in

the drainage so that equipment can safely cross. The structure used will be

dependent on the depth of the drainage.


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Purpose and Need EcoPharm is seeking a permit to gather the roots of Veratrum on behalf of PellePharm, Inc.

(PellePharm). PellePharm is a pharmaceutical company currently engaged in research and

clinical studies to develop a drug for the treatment of a rare but highly destructive and

devastating skin cancer, basal cell nevus syndrome (BCNS) or Gorlin Syndrome. Currently, the

only option generally available for BCNS is a series of multiple yearly surgeries for the removal

or reduction of tumors. The active drug substance employed in these studies is derived from the

natural product cyclopamine. Cyclopamine is found in Veratrum. Extensive botanical

investigations across the western United States have shown that the concentration of

cyclopamine is highest in plants found on Utah’s Wasatch Plateau. To support the research phase

of the development of this potential therapy, PellePharm has requested that EcoPharm collect

Veratrum from the Forest. This will allow PellePharm to continue clinical investigations.

The purpose for this project is to obtain Veratrum roots in the Potters Canyon area within a 10-

year period.

The need for this proposal is to provide raw materials used to explore and establish medical

options for the treatment of certain cancers.

Project Area Description/Affected Environment The proposed Potters Canyon Veratrum Harvest project area (project area) is located in east-

central Utah, east of Mount Pleasant, Utah, and 10 miles south of Huntington Reservoir at the

head of Potters Canyon, Township 15 S., Range 5 E., Section 25 and Section 36 and Township

15 S., Range 6 E., Section 31 in Sanpete County (Appendix 1, Figure 1). The project area is the

open grass-forb meadows of the bowl at the head of Potters Canyon and the grass-forb meadows

immediately adjacent to Forest Road 0271 as it approaches the open bowl of the upper canyon.

The project area encompasses approximately 600 acres within which are approximately 150

acres of Veratrum in dispersed monotypic patches ranging in size from less than 1 acre to about

25 acres.

Topography is characteristic of a montane cirque bowl with flat-to-moderate slopes and

surrounded by mountain ridges, which are either forested or steep rock slopes. The bowl, which

contains the proposed Veratrum harvest, has a relatively flat-to-moderate slope (<15%).

Elevation of the project area ranges from approximately 9,500 feet to 10,500 feet.

The vegetation within the project area varies slightly with topography and elevation that

supports Great Basin & Intermountain Tall Sagebrush Shrubland, and Rocky Mountain Alpine

Scrub, Forb Meadow & Grassland land use macrogoup vegetation cover types according to

Southwest Regional GAP data (USGS 2007). However, the majority of the potential Veratrum

harvest area is within the Rocky Mountain-Vancouverian Subalpine & High Montane Mesic

Grass & Forb Meadow macrogroup (USGS 2007). The description of this macrogroup

vegetation cover type is presented below. The description is derived from the Southwest

Regional GAP definition of macrogroup vegetation cover types (USNVC 2016).


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Rocky Mountain-Vancouverian Subalpine & High Montane Mesic Grass & Forb Meadow (USNVC 2016) This macrogroup vegetation cover type includes herbaceous communities dominated by

flowering forbs that are often tall but still usually less than 3 feet tall, and/or an open-to-dense

perennial grass layer that is also less than 3 feet tall. Vegetation cover is generally dense or can

be patchy. This vegetation cover type includes montane and subalpine mesic meadows within

the Rocky Mountains. Central Rocky Mountain stands typically occur above 6,500 feet in

elevation in the southern extent and above 2,000 feet in the north. Stands occupy a wide variety

of environments where finely textured soils, snow deposition, rocky substrates, or windswept

dry conditions limit tree establishment. The grasslands occur on flat-to-rolling plains, in inter-

montane parks and on dry side slopes—especially those with south and west aspects. They can

also occur on gentle slopes with ample early season seepage. Mesic meadow stands occur in

swales that lose their snow cover relatively late in the season. Many occurrences are small-

patch in spatial character, and are often found in mosaics with woodlands, denser shrublands, or

just below alpine communities. These upland communities occur on slopes with gentle-to-

moderate gradients and relatively moist habitats. At montane elevations, this macrogroup

occurs within Pinus-Pseudotsuga or mixed conifer-dominated forests. At subalpine and low

alpine elevations, these meadows are found below tree line, usually within forests dominated by

Abies lasiocarpa-Picea, or extend into the low alpine.

The Rocky Mountain-Vancouverian Subalpine and High Mesic Grass and Forb Meadow

vegetation cover type corresponds to the Subalpine Forb Grassland vegetation type defined in

the Manti-La Sal National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan (Forest Plan) (USDA

1986). The Forest Plan states that Subalpine Forb Grassland “types occupy 17 percent of the

Forest and are interspersed with other vegetation types. In the subalpine type, they are extensive

and rarely interspersed with aspen and spruce-fir types. Most grasslands support, or are capable

of supporting, numerous kinds of perennial grasses and forbs. Herbage production on mountain

grasslands occasionally exceeds 3,000 pounds per acre; however, yields of 1,000 to 2,000

pounds per acre are much more common.”

“The forage produced in the grass and forb vegetation types is available for both wildlife and

domestic livestock. The open nature of these vegetation types provides a great deal of scenic

variety. Management is typically directed at increasing forage while maintaining visual

quality.”

Interspersed with the major vegetation cover type is the headwater of Potters Creek which

includes a small perennial stream and a few seeps and springs that drain to Potters Creek. These

features support a small stringer of riparian grass-forb vegetation along the drainage and within

the small seep areas. No large woody or herbaceous plants grow within these limited riparian

areas.

Upper Potters Canyon provides habitat for a variety of wildlife species including elk, deer,

raptors, songbirds, and small mammals such as ground squirrels and pocket gophers. The

mountain ridgelines bordering the open meadow bowl of the upper canyon provide potential

nesting habitat for golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) and peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus).

The following Management Unit Direction applies:


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Range Management (RNG). No specific special-use management direction. In general,

management activities seek to maintain or improve range conditions for domestic livestock and

wildlife. Permit special uses that are compatible with the objectives of the unit and allow

appropriate motorized access. Structural watershed improvements damaged by surface-

disturbing activities will be rehabilitated (pages III–79).

Riparian (RPN) Management in Potters Canyon. Permit special uses that are complementary

and compatible with the kind and level of development within the unit (pages III–73).

Utility Corridor (UC) Management (traverses the northeastern boundary of the project area).

No specific special use management direction. In general, management activities within these

linear corridors strive to be compatible with the management goals of the adjacent units (pages

III–95).

Evaluated Species Information

Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species Table 1 displays all animal and plant species designated as threatened, endangered, or candidate

by the USFWS that could occur within Sanpete County, Utah. The current Sanpete County list

provided by the USFWS (https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp0/reports/species-by-current-range-

county?fips=49039) was used to identify potential species, and the 2016 USFWS online project

planning tool was used to identify potential species conflicts within the project area

(https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/project) (USDI 2016a). The table also describes habitats occupied by

the threatened and endangered animals and plants, and the general distribution of their habitats.

The threatened or endangered species that do not occur or have suitable habitat in or near the

proposed project area are identified in Table 1 and will not be considered further in this BA/BE.

Sensitive Plant, Terrestrial Wildlife, and Aquatic Species Table 2 lists the Intermountain Regional Forester’s list of sensitive animal and plant species that

could occur on the Manti Division of the Forest within the project area or that could have

suitable habitat within the proposed project’s area of potential effects. Sensitive wildlife and

plant species that have been determined not to occur or do not have suitable habitat in the project

area will not be considered further in this BA/BE.

Pre-field Review and Survey Information A pre-field review of sensitive species was completed by reviewing the Forest Service Region 4

Sensitive Species List (USDA Forest Service 2016), site-specific Ferron/Price Ranger District

data, and the Forest Plan (USDA, Forest Service 1986), as well as conducting literature reviews.

A field reconnaissance was conducted by the botanist on July 14, 2016, to determine plant

communities and species within the project area, and a site visit was conducted by the wildlife

biologist on July 7, 2016, to evaluate habitat types and their suitability for wildlife species of

concern.

https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp0/reports/species-by-current-range-county?fips=49039


https://ecos.fws.gov/ipac/project


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Table 1. Federally listed and candidate animal and plant species that could occur within the

Potters project area in Sanpete County, Utah (USDI 2016b), and their consideration

in this biological assessment and biological evaluation (BA/BE).

SPECIES SPECIES STATUS SPECIES OCCURRENCE AND CONSIDERATION

IN THIS BA/BE

Terrestrial Wildlife Species

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Coccyzus americanus

Threatened

Not Considered in detail (Unlikely to Occur).

In Utah nesting habitats are found at elevations

between 2,500 and 6,000 feet. They appear to

require large tracts (100–200 acres) of

contiguous riparian nesting habitat (Parrish et al.

2002). The project area is at approximately

9,000–10,200 feet elevation. There are no large

contiguous tracts of riparian habitat in the

vicinity of the project area. There is no critical

habitat for this species within the project area. It

is my determination that the proposed project

will have No Effect on the yellow-billed cuckoo

or its habitat; thus, it will not be carried forward

for further analysis.

Aquatic Wildlife Species

Bonytail

Gila elegans

Endangered Not Considered in detail (Unlikely to Occur).

Historically, the bonytail existed in warm water

reaches of larger rivers in the Colorado River

Basin; it is considered to be adapted to pools and

eddies of mainstream rivers. It has been

extirpated from most of its historic range.

Currently, a small number of wild adults exist in

Lake Mohave in the lower Colorado River basin,

and there are small numbers of wild individuals

in the Green River and in subbasins of the upper

Colorado River basin (USDI USFWS 2002a).

The bonytail has not been located on the Forest,

and the proposed project will not affect any

streams that could cause any downstream effects

to the bonytail. It is my determination that the

proposed project will have No Effect on the

bonytail or its habitat; therefore, it will not be

carried forward for further analysis.


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SPECIES SPECIES STATUS

SPECIES OCCURRENCE AND CONSIDERATION

IN THIS BA/BE

Colorado Pikeminnow

Ptychocheilus lucius


The Colorado pikeminnow is endemic to the

Colorado River basin, and its range historically

extended from the Green River in Wyoming to

the Gulf of California. The species was

widespread and abundant in warm-water rivers

and tributaries. It is a long-distance migrator

(hundreds of kilometers to and from spawning

areas). Adults require deep pool and eddie

habitats in streams that have high spring flows.

Currently, this species occurs in Utah in the

Green River from Lodore Canyon to the

confluence of the Colorado River (USDI

USFWS 2002b). The Colorado pikeminnow has

not been located on the Forest, and the proposed

project will not affect any streams that could

cause any downstream effects to this species. It

is my determination that the proposed project

will have No Effect on the Colorado

pikeminnow or its habitat, so it will not be


Humpback Chub

Gila cypha


The humpback chub is restricted to deep, swift

mainstreams and large tributaries in relatively

inaccessible canyons of the Colorado River

basin. Adults require eddies and sheltered

shorelines in streams that maintain high spring

flows that flush sediments from spawning areas

and form gravel deposits used for spawning.

Young require low-velocity shoreline habitats.

Currently, there are six known extant

populations that are located in the upper

Colorado River, Yampa River, and Little

Colorado River (USDI USFWS 2002c). The

humpback chub has not been located on the

Forest, and the proposed project will not affect

any streams that could cause any downstream

effects to this species. It is my determination that

the proposed project will have No Effect on the

humpback chub or its habitat. The speices will

not be carried forward for further analysis.


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SPECIES SPECIES STATUS

SPECIES OCCURRENCE AND CONSIDERATION

IN THIS BA/BE

Razorback Sucker

Xyrauchen texanus


Historically, the razorback sucker was widely

distributed in warm-water reaches of the

Colorado River and its tributaries from

Wyoming to Mexico. Adults require deep pools,

eddies, and backwaters in spring; shallow water

associated with sandbars in summer; and low-

velocity pools and eddies in winter. Young

require quiet, warm, shallow water found at

tributary mouths and in coves or shorelines in

reservoirs. Currently, within the upper Colorado

River basin this species is only found in small

numbers in the middle Green River, between the

confluence of the Duchesne and Yampa Rivers,

and in the lower reaches of those two tributaries

(USDI USFWS 2002d). The razorback sucker

has not been located on the Forest and the

proposed project will not affect any streams that

could cause any downstream effects to this

species. It is my determination that the proposed

project will have No Effect on the razorback

sucker or its habitat; therefore, this species will


Plant Species

Heliotrope Milkvetch

Astragalus limnocharis var. montii

Threatened Not Considered in detail (Unlikely to Occur). This species is not known to occur within the

project area (Anderson 2016a). Heliotrope

milkvetch grows in the subalpine zone from

10,500 to 11,000 feet in shale barrens of the

Flagstaff limestone formation. It can be found in

openings and wind-swept limestone breaks with

other mat-forming species (Tilley et al. 2010).

The project area is approximately 10,250 feet in

elevation and moderately to heavily vegetated

with alpine meadow plant species with little to

no exposed limestone noted. There is no suitable

habitat for this species within the project area,

therefore it is my determination that the proposed

project will have No Effect on Heliotrope

milkvetch or its habitat, so further analysis is

necessary for this species.


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Table 2. Sensitive animal and plant species that could occur within the project area in

Sanpete County, Utah and their consideration within this biological assessment

and biological evaluation (BA/BE).

SPECIES SPECIES OCCURRENCE

AND CONSIDERATION IN THIS BA/BE

Terrestrial Wildlife Species

Northern Goshawk

Accipiter gentilis

Considered (May Occur). In Utah, most nests can be

found in mid-elevation sites occupied by quaking aspen

or coniferous forest (Graham et al. 1999). Closed

canopies with relatively open understories that allow

maneuverability during foraging are important. The

proposed project does not encroach on suitable goshawk

nesting habitat. No known goshawk nests occur within

0.5 mile. There is no suitable nesting within the proposed

project area. Foraging habitat is more heterogeneous

supporting a broad range of prey of small mammals and

birds, and goshawks could use the project area for

hunting.

Peregrine Falcon

Falco peregrinus

Considered (May Occur). Peregrine falcons most

commonly occupy habitats that contain cliffs for nesting

and more open country for foraging. There is no

preference to certain vegetation types (White et al.

2002). Although there is not suitable nesting within the

project area, there is suitable nesting on ridge

escarpments within 1 mile of the project area boundary.

As such, peregrine falcons may use the project area for

hunting.

Spotted Bat

Euderma maculatum

Considered (May Occur). The spotted bat is likely

found throughout Utah. It is known to use a variety of

vegetation types from approximately 2,500 to 9,500 feet

in elevation, including riparian, desert shrub, spruce-fir,

ponderosa pine, montane forests, and meadows (Oliver

2000). Spotted bats roost alone in rock crevices high up

on steep cliff faces. There is no suitable roosting

vegetation within the project area, although such suitable

habitat may occur in adjacent cliff rock crevices or

forested areas with large conifers. The project area’s

springs, seeps, and perennial stream provide enhanced

opportunities for foraging within the project area.

Three-toed woodpecker

Picoides tridactylus

Not Considered in detail. Three-toed woodpeckers use

forests containing Engelmann spruce (Picea

engelmannii), grand fir (Abies grandis), ponderosa pine

(Pinus ponderosa), tamarack (Larix laricina), and

lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta). There is no suitable

habitat for three-toed woodpeckers within the proposed

project area; therefore, it is my determination that the

proposed project will have No Impact on the three-toed

woodpecker or its habitat. This species will not be



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Aquatic Wildlife Species

Western Boreal Toad

Bufo boreas boreas

Not Considered in detail (Unlikely to Occur). The

western toad (Bufo boreas boreas), inhabits western

Canada and much of the western (especially

northwestern) United States. It occurs throughout most

of Utah and can be found in a variety of habitats,

including slow-moving streams, wetlands, desert springs,

ponds, lakes, meadows, and woodlands (UDNR 2015).

There are a few seeps and springs, as well as a perennial

stream, within the project area, but no toads have been

detected within the general project area. The closest

known population of boreal toad is 8 miles from the

project area on East Mountain (USDA 2015a). No

wetlands, seeps, springs, ponds, or streams will be

impacted by the proposed action. It is my determination

that the proposed project will have No Impact on the

western boreal toad or its habitat, and this species will


Plant Species

Arizona willow

Salix arizonica

Not Considered in detail (Not Likely). This species

occurs in riparian communities along streambanks at

elevations ranging between 8,000 and 10,500 feet.

Arizona willow occurs in a small population miles

beyond the project area (Anderson 2016b). Habitat

documented within the project area is not consistent with

habitat or documented occurrences of this species which

requires riparian conditions. Therefore, it is my

determination that the proposed project will have No

Impact on Arizona willow or its habitat. No further

analysis is necessary for this species.

Canyon sweetvetch

Hedysarum occidentale var. canone

Considered (May Occur, Not Likely). This species is

found in sagebrush shrubland, desert grasslands, pinyon

pine, and Douglas fir vegetation communities at

elevations ranging from 5,600 to 8,700 feet. Habitat

within the area of analysis is neither consistent with

habitat typically accompanying this species nor within

the elevational range where canyon sweetvetch has been

documented (Welsh et al. 2003). As there is no suitable

habitat for this species within the project area, it is my


Impact on Canyon sweetvetch or its habitat. No further



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Creutzfeldt-flower cryptanth

Cryptantha creutzfeldtii

Not Considered in detail (Not Likely). Habitat that

supports this species occurs in Mancos Shale in

shadscale- and mat-atriplex-dominated vegetation

communities at elevations ranging from 5,500 to 6,500

feet (Spahr et al. 1991). There is no suitable habitat for

this species within the project area; therefore, it is my


Impact on Creutzfeldt-flower cryptanth.

Link Trail columbine

Aquilegia flavescens var. rubicunda

Considered (May Occur, Not Likely). This plant is

known only from the mountains of Emery and Sevier

County where it is associated with seeps emerging

from Mesa Verde Group sandstone formations

(NatureServe 2015a, USDA 2015b). Site locations tend

to be near or adjacent to coal strata (NatureServe

2015a). Albee et al. (1998 and Welsh et al. (2003) state

that this plant may also occur along perennial wetland

sites on the east side of the Wasatch Plateau at

elevations of up to 10,300 feet. This species has also

been observed in mixed conifer forests and mixed

montane communities (Welsh et al. 2003). The closest

occurrence of Mesa Verde Group sandstone is east of

Joe’s Valley in Cottonwood Canyon and Straight

Canyon approximately 13 miles southwest in Emery

County (UGS 2016). No coal strata have been

identified in the local North Horn Formation or the

local Mass Wasting Deposits Formation. Therefore, no

suitable habitat is available within or adjacent to the

project area, nor has any populations been identified

within Sanpete County. NatureServe (2015a) that only

six occurrences are known and believed to be extant in

Emery and Sevier Counties. Plants growing on Mesa

Verde Group outcrops with coal seams in Bear

Canyon, 12 miles east of the project area, are the

closest known population (NatureServe 2015a). It is

my determination that the proposed project will have

No Impact on the Link Trail columbine or its habitat.

This species will not be carried forward for further

analysis.

Maguire campion

Silene petersonii


occurs within limestone barrens on the Flagstaff

Limestone and Claron Formation, mainly along the

margins of plateaus. The elevation at which this species

is found ranges from 6,700 to 10,800 feet (Welsh et al.

2003). The project area is situated within this elevational

range, although the site is moderately to heavily

vegetated with alpine meadow plant species with little-

to-no exposed limestone. There is no suitable habitat for

this species within the project area; therefore, it is my


Impact on Maguire campion or its habitat. No further



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Musinea groundsel

Senecio musiniensis


occurs on ridge tops on Flagstaff limestone barrens and

talus slopes elevations ranging from 9,700 to 10,800 feet

in elevation (NatureServe 2015b). The project area is

situated within this elevational range, although the site is

moderately to heavily vegetated with alpine meadow

plant species with little to no exposed limestone. There is

no suitable habitat for this species within the project

area; therefore, it is my determination that the proposed

project will have No Impact on Musinea groundsel or its

habitat. No further analysis is necessary for this species.

Untermann’s daisy

Erigeron untermannii

Considered (May Occur, Not Likely). This species is

known only from Duchesne County, where it is

considered endemic (NatureServe 2015c). This plant

occurs on calcareous shales and sandstones mainly of the

Uinta and Green River formations from about 6,800 to

9,500 feet in elevation in association with various plant

communities including sagebrush, pinyon-juniper,

limber pine, (NatureServe 2015c), Conversely, Albee et

al. (1998) states that its habitat is characterized by

meadows and steep escarpments, commonly in the

Flagstaff formation at elevations ranging from 9,500 to

10,500 feet. The project area is greater than 35 miles

from the only known occurrences in Duchesne County.

Upper Potters Canyon is in the North Horn Formation or

the local Mass Wasting Deposits (UGS 2016). The

closest Flagstaff Formation outcrop is on the south ridge

of Bulger Canyon, approximately 2 miles south of the

project area (UGS 2016). No suitable habitat is available

within or adjacent to the project area, and no populations

have been identified outside Duchesne County. It is my


Impact on the Untermann’s daisy or its habitat. This

species will not be carried forward for further analysis.

Species Descriptions and Analysis of Effects This analysis of effects is based on the existing conditions within the project area. This analysis

reviews the potential “direct and indirect effects” of the proposed project on threatened,

endangered, and sensitive species, and the expected cumulative effects that could potentially

accrue to effect threatened, endangered, and sensitive species if project activities add

cumulatively to other past, present, or reasonably foreseeable future actions.

Threatened, Endangered, Proposed, and Candidate Species No federally listed species were carried forward through this analysis because there are no

suitable habitats, no critical habitats, and no known occurrences of these species within the

proposed project area.


13

Sensitive Plant, Terrestrial Wildlife, and Aquatic Species

Northern Goshawk A Conservation Strategy and Agreement for the Management of Northern Goshawk Habitat in

Utah was developed in 1999 (USDA Forest Service 2000). The Utah Northern Goshawk Forest

Plan Amendment was signed on March 14, 2000 (USDA Forest Service 2000) and the decision

for Forest Plan Amendment UTMLEA2003-01 for the Manti-La Sal National Forest Land

Management Resource Plan was signed on June 13, 2003. These decisions amend the goals,

objectives, standards, guidelines, and monitoring requirements established in the current land and

resource management plan (USDA Forest Service 1986).

Northern goshawks (Accipiter gentilis) have been found in a variety of forest ecosystems

including lodgepole pine, aspen, ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, and mixed forests throughout

much of the northern hemisphere. Goshawk nest sites are usually located in dense, mature forests

with large trees, near water, and on benches of relatively little slope (Graham et al. 1999). Closed

canopies are important for protection and thermal cover, and open understories are important for

maneuverability during foraging. Data (district records) collected from the Wasatch Plateau

between 1989 and 2000 show that over 80 percent of nothern goshawk nests (n=48) are in stands

with a mixture of aspen and conifer species, with the remaining nest stands comprised of mixed-

conifer (primarily Engelmann spruce/sub-alpine fir) without aspen. Sixty-five percent of all nests

have been in aspen trees, with proportionally fewer in Douglas fir and spruce. Nests are often

used year after year, but nest stands usually contain a number of alternate nests.

Suitable northern goshawk habitat is often heterogeneous and supports a broad range of prey

species, particularly small mammals and birds including rabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, grouse,

woodpeckers, jays, and robins. Important forest components in Utah include snags, multiple

canopies, and downed woody debris (Graham et al. 1999).

The northern goshawk population on the Forest appears to be stable. The northern goshawk

started to become a focal species on the Forest in the late 1980s, and the number of known

goshawk territories on the Forest has steadily increased since that time. Therefore, looking at the

number of known active nests over the years would give the impression that the Forest’s

northern goshawk population has steadily increased since the late 1980s. A better indication of

how the northern goshawk population is doing on the Forest would be the percent of monitored

nests that were occupied each year, which is illustrated in Figure 1.

Direct and Indirect Impacts No direct or indirect impacts are anticipated from the proposed project. The proposed project

area is in an open meadow. Possible foraging habitat could occur in the aspen stands outside of

the project area, and infrequent small mammal hunting forays may be made into the open

meadow. No impacts are expected for northern goshawk nesting habitat, because no known nests

occur in the harvest area and there is no suitable nesting habitat. The minimal level of human

activity and restricted time frame of the harvest (late summer-early autumn) may temporarily

displace birds to adjacent areas, but it would not affect overall hunting opportunities for the

goshawk.


14

Figure 1. Percent of monitored northern goshawk nests that were occupied on the Manti

Division of the Manti-La Sal National Forest from 1995 through 2007.

Surveys were not conducted because no suitable nesting habitat is found within the project area.

During on-site visits the interdisiplinary team determined that the project area did not have

suitable nesting habitat.

Cumulative Effects The cumulative analysis area for the northern goshawk for this project is the upper Potters Creek

watershed terminating at Potters Pond diversion. Past, present and reasonably foreseeable actions

within this analysis area are presented as Appendix A. Past activities have affected

approximately 609 acres of forested habitat. This disturbance complied with the Manti-LaSal

National Forest Northern Goshawk Forest Plan Amendment (2003). The Standards and

Guidelines within the amended Forest Plan has resulted in goshawk populations and a stable

trend in nest occuppancy. Future planned timber activities could affect an additional 282 acres of

forested habitat. Prior to approval the design activities must demonstrated compliance with the

amended Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines, and thus, maintain the stable nest occuppancy

trend. The only past and present action affecting open grass-forb or sagebrush grassland habitats

is the approved grazing for 900 ewes/lambs of the Potters Canyon Grazing Allotment that covers

the entire cumulative effects analysis area. The open grass-forb and sagebrush grassland habitats

provide approximately 2,103 acres of potential hunting habitat for the Northern goshawk within

the cumulative effects area. The proposed project would disturb an additional 70-100 acres of

such habitat (<5%); however the design features for restoration are expected to re-establish the

native plant community at the harvest sites and thus no cumulative effect due to loss of grass-

forb habitat is expected. In addition, the project will convert 70-100 acres of marginal prey

habitat (monotypic Veratrum stands) to better habitat for prey species, possibly offsetting some

local livestock grazing effects to habitat. Based on this evaluation, the proposed Potters Canyon


15

Veratrum Harvest Project would have no cumulative impact on the Northern goshawk, nor affect

this species Forest-wide stable trend.

Determination The proposed project would not have an effect on northern goshawk population stability within

the Manti-LaSal National Forest, and would thus have No Impact on the northern goshawk,.

Peregrine Falcon The peregrine falcon occurs throughout much of North America from the subarctic boreal forests

of Alaska and Canada south to Mexico. The peregrine falcon nests from central Alaska, the

central Yukon Territory, and northern Alberta and Saskatchewan east to Canada’s Maritime

provinces and south (excluding coastal areas north of the Columbia River in Washington and

British Columbia) throughout western Canada and the United States to Baja California, Sonora,

and the highlands of central Mexico.

The species’ preferred nesting habitat is on cliff faces with recesses or protected shelves, but it

will occasionally use abandoned stick nests of other species. The nest is not built; a scrape or

depression is dug into gravel on a cliff ledge. Some peregrine falcons have accepted manmade

structures as breeding sites.

A wide variety of habitats are used for foraging, including riparian woodlands, open country near

rivers and marshes, coniferous and deciduous forest edges, shrub lands, and prairies. Peregrine

falcons prey on various birds including pigeons, shorebirds, waterfowl, grouse, and other small-

to medium-sized terrestrial birds. Peregrine falcons may travel up to 18 miles from the nest site

to hunt for food; however, a 10-mile radius around the nest is an average hunting area, and 80

percent of foraging occurs within 1 mile of the nest (Spahr et al. 1991).

Direct and Indirect Impacts No direct or indirect impacts are anticipated from the proposed project. The proposed project

area is an open meadow with no suitable nesting habitat. No eyries have been identified on

ridgeline escarpments within the general project area. The proposed project would not affect any

potential nesting in the area as harvest activities would not commence until August—after the

typical nesting season. Possible bird and small mammal foraging habitat could occur in the open

meadow. The minimal level of human activity and restricted time frame of the harvest (late

summer-early autumn) could temporarily displace birds to adjacent areas, but it would not affect

overall hunting opportunities for the peregrine falcon.

Cumulative Effects The cumulative analysis area for the peregrine falcon for this project is the upper Potters Creek

watershed terminating at Potters Pond diversion. Past, present and reasonably foreseeable

actions within this analysis area is presented as Appendix A. Past activities have affected

approximately 609 acres of forested habitat, and future planned timber activities could affect an

additional 282 acres of forested habitat. However, none of these projects have or would affect

cliffs or steep escarpments considered prime habitat for eyries. The only past and present action

affecting open grass-forb or sagebrush grassland habitats is the approved grazing for 900

ewes/lambs of the Potters Canyon Grazing Allotment that covers the entire cumulative effects


16

analysis area. The open grass-forb and sagebrush grassland habitats provide approximately

2,103 acres of potential hunting habitat for the peregrine falcon within the cumulative effects

area. The proposed project would disturb an additional 70-100 acres of such habitat (<5%);

however the design features for restoration are expected to re-establish the native plant

community at the harvest sites and thus no cumulative effect due to loss of grass-forb habitat is

expected. In addition, the project will convert 70-100 acres of marginal prey habitat (monotypic

Veratrum stands) to better habitat for prey species, possibly offsetting some potential local

livestock grazing effects to habitat. Based on this evaluation, the proposed Potters Canyon

Veratrum Harvest Project would have no cumulative impact on the peregrine falcon, nor affect

this species Forest-wide stable trend.

Determination The proposed project would have no direct or indirect effect on the peregrine falcon, nor would

there be any cumulative effect to the potential falcon use within the cumulative analysis area. As

such, the project would have no effect on the increasing population trend in Utah and, thus,

would have No Impact on the peregrine falcon.

Spotted Bat Currently, the spotted bat (Euderma maculatum) is known to be distributed across large areas of

western North America from southern British Columbia to the central Mexican state of

Queretaro (Luce and Keinath 2007).

The spotted bat uses cracks, crevices, and caves as roost sites. These roost sites are usually high

in fractured rock cliffs. Availability of suitable roost sites and human disturbance are the limiting

factors to this species’ success (Spahr et al. 1991). It can be found at elevations ranging from

approximately 2,800 to 9,000 feet.

Spotted bats have been found foraging in many different habitats including sub-alpine mountain

meadows, forest openings, pinyon/juniper woodlands, low upland slopes of juniper and

sagebrush, the rims of cliffs, riverine/riparian habitat along rivers, old agricultural fields, and

riparian habitat associated with small- to mid-sized streams in narrow canyons, wetlands, and

meadows (Luce and Keinath 2007). Foraging activities takes place near or over water, which is a

function of prey availability. The spatial relationship between roosting and foraging habitat is

especially important for the spotted bat, whose distribution is limited by the occurrence of

suitable roosting and foraging habitat within travel distance of each other (Luce and Keinath

2007). During summer bats may travel from roosts in desert-scrub to forage in high-elevation

meadows, returning to roosts within an hour of dawn. Males and females are capable of long-

distance flight; thus foraging ranges can be large. Long foraging distances may be explained by a

lack of suitable high-cliff roost sites near referred foraging sites (Luce and Keinath 2007).

Spotted bats are strong fliers and forage primarily alone from 6 to 165 feet above ground.

Spotted bats echolocate at a pitch audible to humans but not audible to prey until these bats are

too close for prey to evade them. Spotted bats forage primarily on moths, but have been found to

consume beetles, and they do not appear to select particular moth species (Luce and Keinath

2007).


17

Spotted bats breed in late February or early April and give birth to one altricial young in May or

June (Luce and Keinath 2007). Spotted bats do not congregate in nursery colonies as do other

bats but remain solitary throughout the year.

The spotted bat drinks on the fly by skimming the surface of open water sources such as ponds,

spring ponds, lakes, and tanks. This bat needs a short swoop zone in order to water on the fly and

is one of several species that can use a water source such as a cattle stock tank (Luce and Keinath

2007).

Direct and Indirect Effects No direct or indirect impacts to spotted bat are anticipated from the proposed project. The

spotted bat could potentially use cracks and crevices of rock cliffs or large conifers for roosting

in the general area, although in project area vicinity such habitat is at the upper elevational limit

of the species. The project’s harvest activities will be limited to open meadow habitat, which will

eliminate any potential conflict with spotted bat roosting or roosting habitat. Open meadows are

spotted bat foraging habitat, and this species will travel extensive distances to forage. These bats

nocturnally forage for insects in riparian habitat associated with small- to mid-sized streams.

Open water sources (a few small springs/seeps and a small perennial stream) exist within the

open meadow of the project area. Harvest activities will be limited to existing Veratrum patches

and will avoid existing water sources. In addition, harvest activities will occur during the

daylight and thus avoid any conflict with spotted bat foraging.

Cumulative Effects The cumulative analysis area for the spotted bat for this project is the upper Potters Creek

watershed terminating at Potters Pond diversion. Past, present and reasonably foreseeable

actions within this analysis area is presented as Appendix A. Past activities have affected

approximately 609 acres of forested habitat, and future planned timber activities could affect an

additional 282 acres of forested habitat. However, none of these projects have or would affect

caves or the cracks and crevices of highly fractured cliff faces considered prime habitat for

spotted bat roosting. The only past and present action affecting open grass-forb and sagebrush

grassland habitats is the approved grazing for 900 ewes/lambs of the Potters Canyon Grazing

Allotment that covers the entire cumulative effects analysis area. The open grass-forb and

sagebrush grassland habitats, in addition to the limited open water habitat, provide approximately

2,119 acres of potential foraging habitat for the spotted bat within the cumulative effects area.

The proposed project would disturb an additional 70-100 acres of such habitat (about 3%);

however the design features for restoration are expected to re-establish the native plant

community at the harvest sites and thus no cumulative effect due to loss of grass-forb habitat is

expected. In addition, the project will convert 70-100 acres of marginal prey habitat (monotypic

Veratrum stands) to better habitat for prey species, possibly offsetting some local livestock

grazing effects to habitat. Based on this evaluation, the proposed Potters Canyon Veratrum

Harvest Project would have no cumulative impact on the spotted bat, nor affect this species

Forest-wide stable trend.

Determination Although no information is available on distribution and population trends of the spotted bat in

the Manti-LaSal Forest, the project will not affect potential roosting habitat or nocturnal


18

foraging. Thus the proposed project would have No Impact on the spotted bat or its trend in the

Manti-LaSal Forest.

Determination of Effects

This section will discuss determination of effects to animal and plant species considered in this

document. Table 3 shows a summary of determinations for each species.

Table 3. Summary of determination of effects.

SPECIES STATUS ADVERSELY IMPACTED

NOT IMPACTED

SUMMARY COMMENTS

Bonytail chub TES or

proposed X

Species occurs in Colorado River basin, but

project would not affect downstream water

quality.

Colorado

pikeminnow

TES or

proposed X



quality.

Humpback

chub

TES or

proposed X



quality.

Razorback

sucker

TES or

proposed X



quality.

Yellow-billed

cuckoo

TES or

proposed X

Species does not occur in the project area, and no

critical habitat occurs in or near the project area.

Heliotrope

milkvetch

TES or

proposed X

Species does not occur in the project area, and

does not have critical habitat in or near the project

area.

Northern

goshawk Sensitive X

Species has no known nests in the project area,

and there is no suitable nesting habitat in project

area. Suitable habitat would be restored.

Peregrine

falcon Sensitive X Project would not affect breeding habitat.

Spotted bat Sensitive X Project would not affect roosting habitat or

foraging opportunities.

Arizona

willow Sensitive X

Species does not occur in project area and suitable

habitat does not occur in project area.

Canyon

sweetvetch Sensitive X



Creutzfeldt-

flower

cryptantha

Sensitive X Species does not occur in project area and suitable


Maguire

campion Sensitive X



Musinea

groundsel Sensitive X



Link Trail

columbine Sensitive X



Untermann’s

daisy Sensitive X




19

Threatened, endangered, proposed, and candidate species

Aquatic Wildlife Species The USFWS lists four fish species that could occur or have suitable habitat in Sanpete County,

Utah. These four fish species do not occur on Forest System lands, but they do occur within the

Colorado River basin. Tributaries within the proposed project area drain into the Colorado River

basin; however, this project will not impact stream quality or downstream water flows.

Therefore, is it my determination that the proposed Potters Canyon Veratrum Harvest Project

would have No Effect on the following federally listed and candidate fish species: bonytail chub,

Colorado pikeminnow, humpback chub, and razorback sucker.

Terrestrial Wildlife Species The USFWS lists one wildlife species that could occur or have suitable habitat in Sanpete

County, Utah. This species does not occur within the project area and does not have critical

habitat in or near the project area. Therefore, it is my determination that the proposed Potters

Canyon Veratrum Harvest Project would have No Effect on yellow-billed cuckoo.

Plant Species The USFWS lists one plant species that could occur or have suitable habitat in Sanpete County,

Utah. This species does not occur within the project area and does not have critical habitat in or

near the project area. Therefore, it is my determination that the proposed Potters Canyon

Veratrum Harvest Project would have No Effect on heliotrope milkvetch.

Sensitive Terrestrial Wildlife, Plant, and Aquatic Species

Terrestrial Wildlife Species The Intermountain Regional Forester lists five sensitive wildlife species that could occur within

this portion of the Manti Division of Forest. Boreal toad and three-toed woodpecker do not have

suitable habitat and have not been detected within the project area; therefore, they were not

carried forward in this analysis. The determinations for the northern goshawk, peregrine falcon,

and spotted bat follow.

Northern Goshawk There would be no direct or indirect impacts on northern goshawk nesting or foraging habitat

because no known nests occur in the harvest areas and there is no suitable nesting habitat there.

The minimal level of human activity and restricted time frame of the harvest (late summer-early

autumn) may temporarily displace birds to adjacent areas, but they would not affect overall

hunting opportunities for northern goshawk. All harvest patches will be restored to native

vegetation within a year, and is expected to improve local habitat for small mammal prey

species. Therefore, it is my determination that the proposed Potters Canyon Veratrum Harvest

Project would have No Impact on the northern goshawk or its habitat.

Peregrine Falcon The proposed project area occurs in an open meadow with no suitable peregrine falcom nesting

habitat. Although no eyries have been identified on ridgeline escarpments within the general


20

project area, the proposed project would not affect any potential nesting in the area as harvest

activities would not commence until August, which is after the typical nesting season. Northern

goshawk could forage in the open meadows of the proposed harvest area for birds and small

mammals; however, the minimal level of human activity and restricted time frame of the harvest

(late summer-early autumn) could temporarily displace birds to adjacent areas, but it would not

affect overall hunting opportunities for the peregrine falcon. All harvest patches will be restored

to native vegetation within a year, which is expected to improve local habitat for small mammal

prey species. Therefore, it is my determination that the proposed Potters Canyon Veratrum

Harvest Project would have No Impact on the peregrine falcon or its habitat.

Spotted Bat The proposed project harvest activities will be limited to open meadow habitat and thus eliminate

any potential conflict with roosting or roosting habitat. Open meadows are spotted bat foraging

habitat and spotted bats will travel extensive distances to forage. These bats nocturnally forage

for insects in riparian habitat associated with small- to mid-sized streams. Open water sources (a

few small springs/seeps and a small perennial stream) exist within the open meadow of the

project area. Harvest activities will be limited to existing Veratrum patches and will avoid

existing water sources. In addition, harvest activities will occur during the daylight, thus

avoiding any conflict with spotted bat foraging. Therefore, it is my determination that the

proposed Potters Canyon Veratrum Harvest Project would have No Impact on the spotted bat or

its habitat.

Plant Species The Forest ecologist lists seven sensitive species that could occur within this portion of the Manti

Division of the Forest. Arizona willow (Salix arizonica), canyon sweetvetch (Hedysarum

occidentale var. canone), Creutzfeldt-flower cryptantha (Cryptantha creutzfeldtii), Maguire

campion (Silene petersonii), Musinea groundsel (Senecio musiniensis), Link Trail columbine

(Aquilegia flavescens var. rubicunda), and Untermann’s daisy (Erigeron untermannii) do not

have suitable habitat or have not been detected within the project area and were not carried

forward in this analysis.

Forest Plan Consistency, Discussion of Extraordinary Circumstances, and Consideration of Best Available Science

Forest Plan Consistency A Forest Plan checklist was evaluated for this project. This project complies with applicable

Forestwide direction and standards and guidelines (USDA Forest Service 1986).

Consideration of Best Available Science The analysis in this BA/BE considers the best available science. The analysis focuses on species

present in the project area as determined through site visits, Forest inventories/surveys,

knowledge of the life history requirements of each species, and their occupancy of habitat types

similar to those on the Forest. Habitat suitability was determined through site visits and review of


21

life histories and habitat requirements as outlined in Federal Register listings and/or species

recovery plans. The analysis includes a summary of the credible scientific evidence that is

relevant to evaluating reasonably foreseeable impacts. When appropriate, the conclusions were

based on scientific analysis that shows a thorough review of relevant scientific information, a

consideration of responsible opposing views, and the acknowledgment of incomplete or

unavailable information, scientific uncertainty, and risk. The relevant science considered for this

analysis consists of several key elements.

For wildlife and fisheries, the elements of science used were:

data from Forest-level inventories and monitoring,

field review, and

scientific literature (see Literature Cited section).

Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments Irreversible means that something has been done that cannot be reversed, and the resource is

gone forever. No irreversible commitment of resources would occur from implementation of the

proposed action.

Irretrievable means there is a resource loss for a time. The loss or modification of wildlife habitat

is an irretrievable commitment of resources. The proposed root harvest of Veratrum of

approximately 10–25 acres per year and temporary road construction would result in short-term

irretrievable loss of existing habitat; however, the proven restoration techniques would

reestablish native vegetation communities within 1 year of harvest. As vegetation recovers, the

habitat also recovers. Habitat and its effectiveness would be retrieved over the long-term.

Viability of wildlife populations would not be at risk by implementing the proposed action.


22

Literature Cited

Albee, B. J., L.M. Shultz, and S. Goodrich. 1998. Atlas of the vascular plants of Utah. Utah

Museum of Natural History, Salt Lake City. The Ecology Center, Utah State University,

Logan. Utah Museum of Natural History Occasional Publication No. 7.

Anderson, K. 2016a. Botanist, Manti-La Sal Nation Forest, Manti District. Personal

communication with Bridget Atkin, BIO-WEST, Inc., regarding heliotrope milkvetch.

7/13/2016.

Anderson, K. 2016b. Botanist, Manti-La Sal Nation Forest, Manti District. Personal

communication with Bridget Atkin, BIO-WEST, Inc., regarding Arizona willow.

7/11/2016.

Graham, R.T., R.L. Rodriguez, K.M. Paulin, R.L. Player, A.P. Heap, and R. Williams. 1999. The

northern goshawk in Utah: habitat assessment and management recommendations.

General Technical Report RMRS-GTR-22. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain

Research Station, Ogden, Utah. 48 p.

Luce, R.J., and D. Keinath. 2007. Spotted bat (Euderma maculatum): a technical conservation

assessment [online]. US Department of Agriculture Forest Service, Rocky Mountain

Region. Location:

http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5181916.pdf (accessed

11/28/2016).

NatureServe. 2015a. NatureServe Explore: An online encyclopedia of life [web application].

Version 6.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Location: http://explorer.natureserve.org/

servlet/NatureServe?searchSpeciesUid=ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.147987 (accessed

11/28/2016).

NatureServe. 2015b. NatureServe Explore: An online encyclopedia of life [web application].


servlet/NatureServe?searchSpeciesUid=ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.147879

http://explorer.natureserve.org/

servlet/NatureServe?searchSpeciesUid=ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.147987 (accessed

11/28/2016).

NatureServe. 2015c. NatureServe Explore: An online encyclopedia of life [web application].


servlet/NatureServe?searchSpeciesUid= element_global.2.154246 (accessed 11/28/2016).

Oliver, G.V. 2000. The bats of Utah: a literature review. Publication No. 00-14. Utah Division of

Wildlife Resources. Salt Lake City. 140 p.

http://explorer.natureserve.org/%20servlet/NatureServe?searchSpeciesUid=ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.147987

http://explorer.natureserve.org/%20servlet/NatureServe?searchSpeciesUid=ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.147987


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Parrish, J.R., F.P. Howe, R.E. Norvell. 2002. Utah Partners in Flight avian conservation strategy

Version 2.0. Utah Partners in Flight Program, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, 1594

West North Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah 84116, Utah Department of Wildlife Resources

Publication Number 02-27.

Spahr, R., L. Armstrong, D. Atwood, and M. Rath. 1991. Threatened, endangered and sensitive

species of the Intermountain Region. USDA Forest Service, Ogden, Utah.

Tilley, D., L. St. John, and D. Ogle. 2010. Plant guide for heliotrope milkvetch (Astragalus

limnocharis var. montii). US Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation

Service, Idaho Plant Materials Center. Aberdeen.

UDNR (Utah Department of Natural Resources). 2015. Western boreal toad. Utah Department of

Natural Resources, Division of Wildlife Resources. Utah Conservation Data Center.

Location: http://dwrcdc.nr.utah.gov/ucdc/default.asp (accessed 11/28/2016).

UGS (Utah Geological Survey). 2016. Utah On-line Interactive Geologic Map. Utah Gelopgical

Survey, 1594 W. North Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah. Location:

geology.utah.gov/apps/ingeomap/ (Accessed 11/30/2016).USDA Forest Service (US

Deparment of Agriculture Forest Service). 1986. Land and resource management plan,

Mant-La Sal National Forest. Price, Utah. 394 p.

USDA Forest Service (US Deparment of Agriculture Forest Service). 2000. Utah northern

goshawk project decision notice. Forest Service Intermountain Region. 104 p.

USDA Forest Service (US Deparment of Agriculture Forest Service). 2015a. Intermountain

Region species of conservation concern review draft template. Manti-La Sal National

Forest. 6 p.

USDA Forest Service (US Deparment of Agriculture Forest Service). 2015b. Biological

assessment and biological evaluation for the 2015 Joe’s Valley Bouldering Project

Environmental Assemssment. Manti-La Sal National Forest. Emery County, Utah. 31 p.

USDA Forest Service (US Deparment of Agriculture Forest Service). 2016. Intermountian

Region (R4) Threatened, Endangered, Proposed and Sensitive Species, Know/Suspected

Distribution by Forest.

http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5370041.pdf (Accessed

11/28/2016)

USDI USFWS (US Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service). 2002a. Bonytail (Gila

elegans) recovery goals: amendment and supplement to the bonytail chub recovery plan.

US Fish and Wildlife Service, Mountain-Prairie Region (6), Denver, Colorado.

http://dwrcdc.nr.utah.gov/ucdc/default.asp

http://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/stelprdb5370041.pdf


24

USDI USFWS (US Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service). 2002b. Colorado

pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus lucius) recovery goals: amendment and supplement to the

Colorado squawfish recovery plan. US Fish and Wildlife Service, Mountain-Prairie

Region (6), Denver, Colorado.

USDI USFWS (US Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service). 2002c. Humpback

chub (Gila cypha) recovery goals: amendment and supplement to the humpback chub

recovery plan. US Fish and Wildlife Service, Mountain-Prairie Region (6), Denver,

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Appendix 1: Figures Figure 1 Project Location Map Figure 2: Cumulative Effects Map

Figure 1. Potters Canyon Veratrum Project location and potentially harvestable Veratrum units.

Appendix 2: Identified Past, Present, and Reasonably Foreseeable Actions within the Cumulative Effects Analysis Area

Figure 1. Potters Canyon Veratrum Harvest Project cumulative effects analysis area of the

Upper Potters Creek Watershed and the identified past, present, and reasonably foreseeable

actions within the cumulative effects area in relation to the proposed project area.

Table 1. Past, present, and reasonably foreseeable actions identified within the cumulative

effects analysis area for the proposed Potters Canyon Veratrum Harvest Project.

ACTION STATUS SIZE (ACRES)

UP&L Timber Sale1 Accomplished 67.0

Dominion Timber Sale1 Accomplished 28.4

Potters Pond Timber Sale1 Accomplished 30.1

Potters Pad Timber Sale1 Accomplished 14.1

Potters Pond Campground1 Current 113.7

Graben Fuels1 Accomplished 355.2

South Tent Exam1 Planning 282.4

Total Disturbance1 890.9

Potters Canyon S&G Grazing

Allotment2

Current:

July-September Annually

(900 Ewes/Lambs)

Entire Effects

Area

Upper Potters Canyon Cumulative Effects Area Total Size 5,245.8

1Information derived from the Manit-LaSal Forest GIS Data Clearinghouse. Accessed data layer is the Activity

Polygon, which is described as “depicts the area of activities recorded in the Forest Service Activity Tracking

System (FACTS).” Date of access 12/01/2016.

2Annual Operating Instruction (AOI) for the Potters, Booths Canyon and Fly Bulger S&G Allotments for 2016.

Ferron/Price Ranger District, May 18, 2016.

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