White Mountain National Forest

Transcription

1 White Mountain National Forest United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Eastern Region Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project Environmental Assessment Town of Martin s Location Coos County, NH Androscoggin Ranger District April 2010 For Information Contact: Thomas Moore Androscoggin Ranger District White Mountain National Forest 300 Glen Road Gorham NH Telephone (603) X226 FAX (603)

2 Cover: Youthful Campers. Back of photo reads July 1939 Around campfire at Dolly Copp camp site on a very, very cold night. Historical photos are courtesy of the Forest History Society and of Jon Chew, whose Dolly Copp web site is listed in the Literature Cited appendix. Figure 1. Postcard photo of Dolly Copp Campground. This document is available in large print. Contact the Androscoggin Ranger District Phone TTY The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA s TARGET Center at (202) (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC or call (202) (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Printed on Recycled Paper

3 Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project Environmental Assessment Contents Chapter 1 Purpose of and Need for the Proposed Action Introduction Project Location and Background Proposed Action Purpose of and Need for Action Scope of this Environmental Assessment and Public Involvement Decision to be Made Chapter 2 Issues and Alternatives Including the Proposed Action Issue Central to the Decision Being Made Alternatives Chapter 3 Environmental Consequences Effects on the Physical, Biological, and Social Environments Chapter 4 List of Preparers Appendix A Literature Cited Appendix B Response to 30-Day Public Comment Report

4 White Mountain National Forest Androscoggin Ranger District Vicinity Map Map 1. (left) Project Area Vicinity. Map 2. (below) Dolly Copp Campground Vicinity. Berlin Maine Gorham Dolly Copp Campground Martins Location Miles 4

5 Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project Environmental Assessment 1.1 Introduction Chapter 1 Purpose of and Need for the Proposed Action One of the largest campgrounds in the National Forest System and one of the most popular on the White Mountain National Forest Dolly Copp Campground has long been a special place for many visitors and Forest Service staff alike. The campground has been the setting for countless foundational outdoor experiences and the backdrop for generations of fond memories for families and friends. However, major infrastructure components are falling into significant disrepair; especially the water and road systems and the existing toilet buildings (only one of which is universally accessible). Additionally, there is a question whether Dolly Copp is providing a variety of amenities that are expected and appreciated by today s campers but that still align with the traditional character of the campground. This Environmental Assessment describes our proposal to address this situation. It explains what we propose to do, why we propose to do it, what alternatives we considered, and the effects of each alternative on the social, physical, and biological environment. 1.2 Project Location and Background The Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project is located on the Androscoggin Ranger District of the White Mountain National Forest (WMNF). The project is located within Coos County, in the unincorporated Township of Martin s Location, approximately five miles south of Gorham, New Hampshire on New Hampshire Route 16 (See Map 1). Figure 2. Large fireplace ca Xeno Fontaine of the CCC stands at left. At right is Ranger Horace C. Currier ( ) for whom Currier Mountain in the Dartmouth Range was named. 5

6 White Mountain National Forest Androscoggin Ranger District 1.3 Proposed Action Figure 3. Dolly Copp Campground development, The history of the project area, summarized here, is described in greater detail in Chew (2004) and Jordan (2004). The main campground road was granted to Daniel Pinkham for the building of a road from Jackson to Randolph in 1824, and this road was a state highway until the 1950s. The area was first settled by Euro- American farmers, including the Copp family, in the 1830s, and acquired by the US Forest Service in Camping subsequently began on the east side of the Peabody River, at the current Dolly Copp picnic area. As the national trend for auto-camping spread during the late 1910s and early 1920s, camping gradually expanded across the river to the present campground, taking advantage of the abandoned fields and pastures of the Copp, Culhane, and Barnes farms. Much of the campground s infrastructure (toilets, running water, waste disposal, and a swimming pool) was developed during the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, including the construction of the large log visitor s center/administration building. The campground continued to expand throughout the twentieth century with additional campground loops and infrastructure, particularly in the 1960s when the gatehouse and lavatory buildings with electricity and flush toilets were first installed. The size, shape, and character of the campground have evolved over time as public demand for services and social and economic influences changed. The site has always catered to a variety of camping styles, including tent, trailer, and later, larger Recreational Vehicles (RVs). At one time a swimming pool with lifeguard was available, and until recently a totem pole stood alongside one loop. The site is now a mix of open, grassy areas and hardwood and softwood stands. The Peabody River flows along the east side of the site parallel to the main interior road, and Culhane Brook divides the campground roughly into northern and southern sections. The western side of the main road offers wooded, wellscreened sites very suitable for tenting. The eastern side is more open and level and is a natural location for larger trailers and RVs and a place where multiple adjacent sites may be occupied by families and friends. A detailed description of the campground facilities is provided in the Existing Condition section below. This project proposes comprehensive rehabilitation of Dolly Copp Campground. The project would: Reconstruct failing water and wastewater systems. Reconstruct and realign the paved road system including the replacement of one bridge, multiple culverts, and the widening of some areas to accommodate safe navigation of larger recreational and emergency vehicles. 6

7 Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project Environmental Assessment Install pedestal service hookups within at least three campground loops and realign and widen certain sections of these roads to allow for vehicle maneuverability. Install one sanitary dump station; repair and upgrade nine toilet buildings and convert three toilet buildings to add shower facilities. Repair and improve certain campsites and minor constructed features such as water pedestals and kiosks. Construct five to ten campsites to accommodate District volunteers. Address deferred maintenance at the seasonal quarters building. Realign the gatehouse entry area to ease congestion and improve visitor access and traffic flow. A more detailed description of the proposed action is available in Chapter Purpose of and Need for Action The purpose of the action is to provide high-quality developed camping opportunities in a scenic and historic location. The need for action is driven by the poor and failing condition of the water and wastewater systems, toilet buildings, and roads; the lack of services many visitors find desirable; and the opportunity to provide amenities to support and improve overall District operations. Existing Condition Dolly Copp Campground provides a variety of camping experiences and is popular with a wide range of users. It accommodates areas of high development while still offering rustic camping opportunities. The depth of history embodied in this landscape, both as a Forest Service managed recreation site and a predating community of White Mountain farm families, has shaped the distinguishing character of the campground and is integral to its current condition. These historic values have resulted in a sense of continuity, attachment, and lore that have defined the existing campground, and which continue to be a highly-valued part of the recreation experience unique to Dolly Copp. There are 177 sites covering about 100 acres laid out in both open field and wooded settings. One hundred and twenty-one sites are within the main artery, and three eastern loops can accommodate RVs. Larger Class A motor-homes and fifth-wheel trailers have some difficulty with tight turns in these loops. Fifty-six sites are of a design or in locations that make them more typically used for tent camping. At full capacity, the campground can hold as many as 1,400 visitors. A concessionaire currently manages the campground under a special use permit. Reservations are accepted for 100 of the sites; the rest are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Dolly Copp has 3.5 miles of paved access and interior roads. The road system has areas that have poor drainage, crumbling pavement, and is rough and heaved in some camping loops. Cold patching is required on a yearly basis. The existing alignment of the overall road system and camping spurs in certain loops can pose maneuvering difficulties for RVs of various types and sizes. Larger 7

8 White Mountain National Forest Androscoggin Ranger District emergency vehicles cope with the same challenges. One bridge crossing Culhane Brook does not support larger modern RVs or commercial service vehicles and there are numerous culverts in need of replacement. Many campsites have lost gravel due to erosion over time leaving an uneven surface incapable of draining water properly. The campground has a pressurized water system with three drilled wells and a 22,000 gallon storage tank. The majority of this large, complex water system was originally installed in the early 1960s. Numerous repairs, replacements, and upgrades of the system have been made as pumps, water and electrical lines, valves, fixtures, or other components have failed. This system has required repairs at an increasing rate taking much time, effort, and money to meet the demand of campers during busy periods of visitation. Potable water is available at 37 pedestal water faucets located throughout the campground. There are 12 restrooms with flush toilets and electric lighting. The aging restroom buildings are furnished with outdated plumbing and sink and toilet fixtures; only one restroom meets universal accessibility standards. No public campsites are equipped with utility hookups. There are six host sites located throughout the campground with water and electric hookups. There is an entrance station, an administrative service area with a large garage, and a small house used for seasonal employee quarters. The graveled administrative area in front of the garage drains water poorly during spring snowmelt, causing water to run into the building. Interpretive programs are offered inside the CCC-era log cabin visitor center or outside at an amphitheater; and a nature trail is available. The Copp homestead site has interpretive panels discussing the history of the site. The log cabin, entrance station, garage, and seasonal house all have electrical service. The garage and seasonal house are served by the water system. There are pay telephones near the entrance to the campground, and firewood and ice are available for purchase from the concessionaire. The Daniel Webster-Scout and Great Gulf Link Trailheads are located within the campground. A small parking lot accommodates ten vehicles for the visitor center and access to the Great Gulf Link Trailhead. There are no parking spaces associated with the Daniel Webster-Scout Trailhead. Both trails receive low to moderate use. During the winter months the main road, Brook Loop, and End Loop serve as part of the Hayes Copp Ski Trail system. Because there is no sanitary dump station in close proximity to the campground, sanitation issues occasionally occur when visitors evacuate black and grey water directly onto the ground within or in the vicinity of the campground. Some campers have gone to such lengths as to fill and haul one bucket of waste water at a time from RVs to dump into the campground toilets. The closest commercial facility with this service is more than five miles from Dolly Copp. The Androscoggin Ranger District receives numerous inquiries each year from potential volunteers outside of commuting distance asking if campsites with utility hookups are provided. Many of these potential volunteers end up going elsewhere as the District is currently unable to provide these services. 8

9 Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project Environmental Assessment The seasonal house has four very small bunk rooms, limited common space for eating and gathering, and annual problems with rodent infestations that prevents use of some rooms. Management Direction and Desired Condition Management direction for developed campgrounds is found in the Forest Service Manual (FSM), Forest Service Handbook (FSH), and the Land and Resources Management Plan for the White Mountain National Forest (Forest Plan) and supporting documents. The Forest Service describes recreation settings on National Forest lands according to the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum (ROS), which considers physical, social, and managerial settings to describe the range of opportunities available to visitors for different kinds of recreation experiences. Settings are grouped into five classes: Primitive, Semi-Primitive Non-motorized, Semi-Primitive Motorized, Roaded Natural, and Rural (Forest Plan, p 1-10, and Map 1-11; FEIS, p and Appendix H). The lands within the project area fall into Management Area (MA) 2.1, General Forest Management. The ROS goal for MA 2.1 is to offer a full mix of ROS objectives. The lands in and around Dolly Copp Campground are identified as Rural ROS class. Agency-wide policy on site development found at FSM Publicly Managed Recreation Opportunities discusses level of site modification as related to ROS class. The Rural ROS class allows for heavily modified sites, including: facilities designed strictly for comfort and convenience of users, extensive use of artificial surfacing of road and trails, obvious traffic control devices, and formal or structured interpretive services. Luxury services are not appropriate within the Rural ROS class. The FSM also provides direction for provision of services such as electric hookups and dump stations. The Forest Plan provides locally determined recreation goals and objectives, as well as standards and guidelines that shape management of developed campgrounds on the White Mountain National Forest. Pertinent direction includes the goal of providing a variety of quality campground opportunities where the natural forest setting is an important part of the visitor experience while ensuring balanced protection of social and natural resources. Standards and guidelines seek to maintain a range of developed recreation opportunities by ensuring that construction, reconstruction, or rehabilitation projects are evaluated in terms of their effects on both the individual site and on Forest-wide development levels. Toward that end, the Forest Plan directed determination of appropriate development levels for campgrounds and certain other sites. To meet that direction, Forest recreation staff completed a draft document dated March, 2007, to describe the existing and desired levels of development for each of the 20 campgrounds on the Forest. Though not finalized pending certain edits and acceptance by the Forest Supervisor, the document does provide a framework to examine appropriate development changes within Dolly Copp. Under this draft document, the current development level of Dolly Copp Campground is High, and all but three of the 13 amenities used to describe the most highly-developed sites (road design, showers, and pedestal service hookups) are present. 9

10 White Mountain National Forest Androscoggin Ranger District Finally, the WMNF completed the Recreation Facility Analysis (RFA) in June, RFA required an examination of all recreation facilities on the Forest and outlined a 5-year program of work to implement site-specific recommendations to address deferred maintenance and improve recreation opportunities. As part of that national effort, repairs and changes very similar to the proposed action described herein were described for the facilities at Dolly Copp Campground. The process also included a formal public involvement effort. In combination with the existing condition of the campground, these documents were collectively used by District recreation managers and the District Ranger to develop the project goals, proposed action, and design criteria. These are described in detail in Chapter Scope of this Environmental Assessment and Public Involvement Analysis was conducted by the District Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) to determine the scope of the environmental assessment and to identify issues or concerns related to the proposed actions. Opportunities for public input concerning improvements to the Dolly Copp Campground have included: The Recreation Facility Analysis 5-year program of work dated March, 2008, described the proposed action; as part of the RFA process, a formal public comment period occurred between April 7 and May 16, The 5-year program of work was finalized by the Regional Forester on June 10, No comments specific to the Dolly Copp Campground were received during the Recreation Facility Analysis. Public notification of the site-specific environmental analysis began when the project was announced in the White Mountain National Forest Quarterly Schedule of Proposed Actions (SOPA) dated 1/1/2008. The project has remained on the SOPA through the present. A 30-Day Comment Package that described the purpose and need and the proposed action, and invited public input to help identify issues and concerns, was mailed to 210 interested and affected organizations, agencies, private companies, and individuals. The letters were mailed on March 9, 2008 and formal comments were received until April 20, The 30-Day Comment Package was posted on the White Mountain National Forest website on March 9, Issues and concerns were also solicited through legal notices published in the New Hampshire Union Leader and the Lewiston Daily Sun newspapers. Internal meetings of the Dolly Copp Campground IDT occurred on May 11, August 4, October 7, and October 11, 2009; and on January 26, As part of these meetings, the ID Team reviewed and analyzed public comments to identify issues, concerns, and suggestions for consideration in project design and development. Specific information on these meetings is available as part of the project record. 10

11 Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project Environmental Assessment 1.6 Decision to be Made The scope of this environmental assessment focuses around a conceptual proposal to repair infrastructure and add amenities to the Dolly Copp Campground. Site-specific decisions on the final locations, shapes, and styles of any repairs or additions stemming from any decision to implement such a conceptual action would be made by the District Ranger in concert with recreation managers and a professional technical design team within the scope of the final decision. The Androscoggin District Ranger, as the Responsible Official, must decide: Whether to select an alternative that comprehensively rehabilitates the Dolly Copp Campground both by addressing deferred maintenance and adding certain additional amenities Whether the alternative selected would result in significant environmental impacts to the quality of the human environment and whether preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) is warranted Whether the decision and alternatives considered meet all applicable federal, state and local laws and policies, including consistency with the Forest Service Manual and WMNF Forest Plan. Figure 4. Dolly Copp Forest Camp and Imp Face, 1920s. 11

12 White Mountain National Forest Androscoggin Ranger District Chapter 2 Issues and Alternatives Including the Proposed Action This section of the environmental analysis identifies and discusses the central issue that was raised both internally and externally during the scoping process, and it provides a detailed description of the proposed action and the alternative that was developed to address the central issue. The effects analysis in Chapter 3 examines how each element of the alternatives relates to this central issue. Other effects of each alternative on social, physical, and biological resources of the analysis area are also described in Chapter 3. More detailed specialist reports are contained in the project record. 2.1 Issue Central to the Decision Being Made Forest Service managers have long been aware of the strong generational connection with Dolly Copp and the importance of continuity with tradition and a certain developmental level and type of use that contributes to a particular character of the area. This awareness led the District Ranger to identify development level and the character of the campground as a preliminary issue for consideration by the IDT at the project s initiation. This awareness also shaped the development of the proposed action and the design criteria that were provided to the design team. Though the majority of individuals who responded to the 30-Day Public Comment Package supported the proposed action entirely, the IDT analysis of comments confirmed that for some visitors a natural tension existed between improving the campground and simply repairing the campground. This is perhaps best exemplified by the following comment: Part of me feels like: Dolly Copp is special let s leave it alone But I don t want to sound like I m against change. I just hope it is done carefully and respectfully, and won t change the character of the campground. While most respondents were supportive of general repairs to the water and wastewater systems, some respondents felt that just by the fact of adding electricity and improving the roads the character of the campground their experience of the area would change. Other respondents expressed the idea that road repairs and additional amenities would increase use of the area by larger RVs and that itself would change the character of the campground. Still others suggested that electric service pedestals would reduce the noise of portable generators currently being used by some campers, but feared that use of air conditioners, TVs, stereos, and other items would otherwise increase noise and change the character of the experience within the campground. These concerns were distilled into the central issue: Adding electric service pedestals within several campground loops will change the character and the recreation experience available at Dolly Copp Campground. Other suggestions or concerns not central to the decision being made were, and will continue to be, considered during development of the design details for the proposed action. Please see Appendix B for our responses to these comments. 12

13 Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project Environmental Assessment 2.2 Alternatives Alternative 1: No Action This alternative proposes no comprehensive repairs or improvements to the Dolly Copp Campground at this time. However, ongoing maintenance of the existing facilities at this site would continue, and a piecemeal approach to repairs of water and wastewater systems and buildings would occur over time. Alternative 2: Proposed Action Consistent with Forest Plan direction, the Recreation Facility Analysis Final Program of Work, and the draft WMNF Campground Development Levels document, the proposed action is designed to: Provide for the health and safety of visitors and employees. Protect natural resources. Accommodate visitor expectations by offering modern waste management facilities. Design improvements to maximize energy conservation and environmental sustainability. Maintain the traditional character of the campground and protect cultural resources. Eliminate deferred maintenance and improve financial sustainability. Provide for an appropriate range of development levels and camping experiences within the campground. Accommodate changing demographics and trends by providing services desirable for modern RV camping. Maintain opportunities for lower-development camping experiences for tent campers. Within the constraints of the items listed above, increase occupancy by providing improved services for all campers. Meet visitor expectations for high-quality restroom, shower, and campsite conditions. Construct new facilities to meet universal accessibility standards. Improve transportation system to accommodate modern vehicle sizes. Maximize operational efficiency and simplicity over the long-term. The proposed action is to: Reconstruct failing water and wastewater systems. Realign and reconstruct degraded paved road system, including: Replace one bridge and multiple culverts to better accommodate modern vehicle weights and sizes and improve stream function. Widen some areas to accommodate safe navigation of larger recreational and emergency vehicles. 13

14 White Mountain National Forest Androscoggin Ranger District Install pedestal service hookups for electricity and water within at least two campground loops on the eastern side of the campground, but not within the interior of Hayes field. Widen certain sections of these loop roads to allow for vehicle maneuverability. Install one sanitary dump station. Repair and upgrade nine toilet buildings and convert three remaining toilet buildings to add shower facilities. Repair and improve certain campsites and minor constructed features such as water pedestals and kiosks. Construct five to ten campsites with hookups to accommodate District volunteers. Address deferred maintenance and improve living conditions at the seasonal quarters building. Realign the gatehouse entry area to ease congestion and improve visitor access and traffic flow. Re-grade the area in front of the shop administration building to enable water to drain away from the facility. To further clarify the proposal, the following design criteria were provided to the team crafting the conceptual design documents: Retain the basic layout of the campground. Addition/removal of loops or general redesign of the existing layout is not viewed as necessary at this time. Some adjustment of camping loop alignments or re-organization of sites within the loops may be appropriate. Retain mix of open, grass fields and wooded areas. Retain a number of water-side and walk-in sites. Retain log visitor center building and protect Copp homestead site. Retain site style and density within High Woods, Brook Loop, and Spruce Woods. The majority of sites should retain their current size, though some smaller sites may be appropriate for expansion. Consider possible locations for volunteer sites that could include the vicinity of the seasonal quarters, behind the garage/administrative site with access from FR 72, or in the vicinity of the nature trail east of the main entrance road. Consider what number of toilet and proposed shower facilities best serve the campground, especially given the changed condition of added service pedestals in certain loops. Consideration of alternative waste treatment systems may be appropriate. Locate the dump station near the entry/administrative service area (desirable). Install a fence or improved natural screening between main entry road and the administrative service area (desirable). Renovate or relocate nature trail and include historical interpretation of the Dolly Copp historical site. 14

15 Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project Environmental Assessment Consider potential for limited parking to serve the Daniel Webster-Scout Trailhead, possibly on the east side of the main road. Alternative 3: Modified Proposal This alternative was designed to respond to the central issue. It is the same as the proposed action with one exception: it would not include installation of utility service pedestals. Figure 5. Dolly Copp Campground Site Map. 15

16 White Mountain National Forest Androscoggin Ranger District Figure 6. Dolly Copp Forest Camp 1930s entrance sign. Figure 7. Dolly Copp campers; Imp Face in background. Photo from The New Hampshire Troubadour, August

17 Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project Environmental Assessment Chapter 3 Environmental Consequences Campground Development Level and Character This section of the environmental assessment analyzes how the central issue identified in Chapter 2 is affected by each element of the alternatives. A description of how other resource areas are affected by each alternative follows. The central issue identified by the IDT based on internal and public comment is: Adding electric service pedestals within several campground loops will change the character and the recreation experience available at Dolly Copp Campground. To focus the analysis around this issue, the general format of the March, 2007, draft Campground Development Levels document was used. This document, which was based on other management direction from the Forest Service Manual and the Forest Plan, identified criteria with which to rate campgrounds into High, Moderate, or Rustic development levels. Consequently, it provides a tool to display how proposed changes under each alternative would affect the development level and consequently the overall character of the campground. Because none of the proposed activities would result in a change in the ROS class of the area, that criterion from the Campground Development Level document was not used in this project-level analysis. The rating criteria and corresponding development levels used for this analysis are displayed in Table 3-1. The analysis area for direct, indirect, and cumulative effects related to development level and character is the Dolly Copp Campground. This area was selected because the effects are related to the condition and character of the campground itself and do not extend into any other area or developed recreation site. The timeframe for the analysis is the period of actual project implementation and five years immediately following implementation. This timeframe was selected because the period of change in condition and character would be most evident to visitors during and following implementation, and any change in use patterns as a result of the project would be expected to be established within five years. Alternative 1 Direct and Indirect Effects of Alternative 1 on the development level of Dolly Copp Campground With selection of this alternative, the development level of Dolly Copp Campground would remain High. Areas of high development which accommodate larger RVs would continue to coexist with less-developed, secluded tent sites. The road, water, and wastewater systems would be patched or repaired on an ongoing basis as they continue to age and fail. Restroom facilities would remain outdated and not universally accessible. The alignment of roads and camping spurs would make it difficult for RVs or vehicles towing trailers to navigate safely. Services such as a dump station, showers, or hookups would not be available and visitors seeking these amenities would choose alternative camping locations. Volunteer sites with hookups would remain unavailable. 17

18 White Mountain National Forest Androscoggin Ranger District Table 3-1. Rating Criteria and Corresponding Development Levels. Development Level Rating Criteria High Moderate Rustic Natural appearing Natural appearing designed Natural appearing Landscape designed and modified landscape landscape Miles to Primary Road miles miles miles Access Road Surface/ Asphalt Asphalt Gravel Interior Road Surface Road Design Greater than or equal to 50% of Access and Interior Roads meet the minimum road design required for a full-size recreational vehicle (RV) to operate % of access and interior roads meet the minimum road design required for a full-size recreational vehicle (RV) to operate. 0% of access and interior roads meet the minimum road design required for a full-size recreational vehicle (RV) to operate. Total Sites (Campsites) 50 + Campsites Campsites 1 20 Campsites Percent of RV 50% or Greater/ Accept 1 49% Accept RVs 0% Accept RVs Campsites RVs Showers Yes Showers available No Showers not available No Showers not available Water System Pressurized Hand Pump Hand Pump Toilet System Flush Vault Vault Host (Within Host(s) on site Host(s) on site No Host on site Campground) Multiple possible Programs Programs on site None available on site None Available on site Electric Hookups Acceptable and available for public use Acceptable and available for public use per FSM direction Acceptable for administrative us only Acceptable for administrative use only (includes Hosts) Not acceptable Not acceptable Selection of this alternative would not fulfill the stated purpose of and need for action. It would address concerns that the proposed action would result in a change in the character of the campground. Alternative 2 Direct and Indirect Effects of Alternative 2 on the development level of Dolly Copp Campground Because the proposed action seeks to replace existing systems and add services to a limited area that can better accommodate existing RV use in a manner consistent with direction in the Forest Service Manual and the Forest Plan, the effects of the actions at Dolly Copp are considered a modification rather than an increase in the overall development level. As shown in Table 3-2, the addition of showers and pedestal hookups constitutes moving two criteria from Moderate/ Rustic to High levels. However, when looked at within the context of the total 18

19 Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project Environmental Assessment Rating Criteria campground rating, the development level remains at the upper level of the development spectrum. The reconstruction of the water and wastewater systems would entail replacing existing infrastructure that is currently rated High on the development scale. The bulk of these system components are subsurface or otherwise not readily apparent to visitors and would remain so following implementation. Restroom buildings would be built to meet accessibility standards, with a character compatible with architectural styles typical of New England national forests. The installation of showers in up to three of the 12 restroom buildings would be incorporated into the structures so as not to create a substantial difference in design from other facilities and would afford campers this opportunity in the campground rather than having to travel elsewhere. Table 3-2 shows a change from Moderate/Rustic to High development level when showers are present, but the total rating of High for the campground as a whole does not change. Table 3-2. Comparison of Alternatives. Existing Development Level Proposed Action Development Level Alternative 3 Development Level Landscape High High High Miles to Primary Road High High High Access Road Surface / High High High Interior Road Surface Road Design Moderate High High Total Sites (Campsites) High High High Percent of RV Campsites High High High Showers Moderate High High Water System High High High Toilet System Host (Within Campground) Interpretive Programs Electric High High High High High High High High High High High High Hookups Moderate High Moderate Total Rating High High High The paved road system is currently rated High and would remain so following implementation of this alternative. Reconstruction of the road system will provide smoother surface conditions and improve drainage features in all sections of the campground. Replacing the bridge over Culhane Brook would ensure that vehicles, including service and emergency vehicles, would have access to the length of the campground over the long term; the presence or absence of bridges does not affect the development level of the campground. The road design of the campground is currently rated Moderate, because while 121 sites can accommodate RVs, sections that are popularly used especially along the main artery road, in Big Meadow and in Hayes Field do not have adequate widths and turning radii to safely accommodate these vehicles. Realignment and widening in areas such as these would allow for these vehicles to navigate safely in areas where they currently travel and camp. Roads in loops that 19

20 White Mountain National Forest Androscoggin Ranger District adequately accommodate RV use on the eastern side of the campground would not require realignment. Likewise, roads in loops that do not currently accommodate RV use on the western side of the campground will remain essentially the same. Any realignment would involve widening to accommodate two-way traffic, softening some corners, modification of some intersections, and adjustment of some loops and camping spurs to improve the ease of navigation and the safety of turning and backing vehicles. The physical location of roads on the ground does not have an effect on development level and is not considered in the campground development level rating. However, providing adequate access to more than 50 percent of the campground to larger RVs would change this criterion from Moderate to High. The installation of water and electrical pedestal hookups would be a change from Moderate to High development level for this criterion. All service lines would be run underground, and the pedestals would be designed to minimize visual effects by choice of material, height, and location in the campsites. Use of service pedestals is expected to reduce the noise of generators, which are commonly used by many visitors. It is expected that the number of RVs using the campground would not change appreciably, as these vehicles currently use the campground in sizeable numbers. However, they are likely to concentrate in areas with hookups. Areas of the campground not identified for hookups will not be affected by installation. The addition of dump station service in the vicinity of the entrance station would eliminate the environmental and health concern of illegal dumping of waste in or adjacent to the campground, which has occurred at Dolly Copp over the years. The presence or absence of dump stations was not considered in the campground development level rating criteria; however, the construction of this facility would obviously be considered an additional development within the campground. The dump station would be located far enough away from public campsites to avoid any visual or odor impacts to those areas from use of this facility. Construction of campsites for District volunteers and refurbishing of the seasonal quarters would have little effect on the development level of the campground. The campsites would be of similar type to those within the public areas of the campground, and the seasonal quarters building would be of similar shape and size following reconstruction. Closing sections of the campground during construction would have an effect on campsite availability and would create noise, dust, and visual impacts to visitor experiences; however, the activity itself would not affect the development level of the campground. In summary, repairs of existing systems would not change the development level of the campground. Installation of showers and public utility hookups represent an increase in individual development level criteria; however, because of the highly-modified, highly-developed character of Dolly Copp Campground, the overall development rating would not change. Because the campground would continue to offer a variety of camping experiences, use patterns are likely to remain similar to the current condition in terms of the mix of tents, trailers, and larger RVs; however, it is likely that improved services and condition of 20

21 Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project Environmental Assessment facilities would increase overall occupancy within the capacity of the campground. Selection of this alternative would not affect any other campground, so the effect on Forest-wide development levels would be the same as the direct and indirect effects described herein. Alternative 3 Direct and Indirect Effects of Alternative 3 on the development level of Dolly Copp Campground This alternative was developed in response to the central issue identified by the ID Team. Reconstruction of the water/waste water systems, toilet buildings, and roads, and installation of showers and dump station services, would have the same effect on development level as in Alternative 2. Because the installation of water and electrical hookups would not occur, campers desiring electrical power would continue to use generators or would choose a state or private campground for their stay. This alternative meets the purpose of and need for action in the area more than Alternative 1, but not as fully as the Proposed Action, Alternative 2. Installation of showers and public utility hookups represent an increase in individual development level criteria; however, as with Alternative 2, there would be no change in the development level rating for the campground as a whole. Cumulative Effects of Alternatives 2 and 3 on the development level of Dolly Copp Campground Past, present, and future projects include: ongoing campground maintenance; Settler s stewardship project and removal of hazard trees (completed in 2009); installation of interpretive panels at the Copp Homestead site in 2007; ongoing Visitor Center maintenance and past projects repairing the roof, chimney, and steps; and creation of a campground manager s site in an administrative area. In the context of the development rating criteria, these projects had no effect on the development level of Dolly Copp; therefore, the cumulative effects of either Alternative 2 or 3 would be the same as the direct and indirect effects. 3.1 Effects on the Physical, Biological, and Social Environments As part of the interdisciplinary analysis for this project, specialists developed reports describing the existing condition and evaluating the potential for effects for their resource. These detailed specialist reports are found in the project record. No issues were identified by the ID Team related to these resources, and no concerns were identified by the public. This section of the environmental assessment summarizes the effects to physical, biological, and social resources based on specialist reports. 21

22 White Mountain National Forest Androscoggin Ranger District Cultural Resources Known historic properties include an historic building, two archaeological sites, and one feature potentially eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. Potential eligibility of the archaeological sites is based on their ability to contribute information important to the study of history under the themes of European settlement and agriculture, and early recreation and tourism. The log visitor center is potentially eligible based on its distinctive character. Under Alternative 1, no direct or indirect effects would occur. Under Alternatives 2 and 3, known archaeological sites and the log visitor center would be avoided and protected. All recorded sites can be avoided by project activities; hence no direct or indirect effects from the project activity are anticipated. Since there are no direct or indirect effects from the project, there would be no cumulative effects. Consequently, Cultural Resources Reconnaissance Report (CRRR) Number with a determination of No Effect was submitted to the New Hampshire State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), who concurred with the determination by letter dated September 11, Additional project activities that result from the final design that were not included in the original submission to the SHPO will be submitted as an addendum to CRRR , and SHPO concurrence will be obtained prior to project implementation. Federally Threatened, Endangered, and Proposed Species (TES), and Regional Forester Sensitive Species (RFSS) A Biological Evaluation (BE) for Federally Threatened, Endangered, and Proposed Species and Regional Forester Sensitive Species was completed on July 30, 2009, for the Proposed Action and its alternatives (BE, Project Planning Record). The process used and the sources examined to determine potential occurrence of TES or RFSS presence are listed in the BE. During Forest Plan revision, best available science was used to evaluate TES/RFSS species and species viability. Based on a review of all available information, it was the Forest Service Biologist s and Botanist s determination that potential habitat may occur within the project area for six Regional Forester Sensitive Species: Eastern small-footed myotis (Myotis leibii) Regional Forester Sensitive Species Northern bog lemming (Synaptomys borealis sphagnicola) Regional Forester Sensitive Species Brown s Ameletus Mayfly (Ameletus browni) Regional Forester Sensitive Species Third Ameletus Mayfly (Ameletus tertius) Regional Forester Sensitive Species Bailey s sedge (Carex baileyi) Regional Forester Sensitive Species Autumn coralroot (Corallorhiza odontorhiza) Regional Forester Sensitive Species The BE details effects to these species. Under both action alternatives, eastern small-footed myotis could be displaced if they are roosting in buildings being 22

23 Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project Environmental Assessment altered or replaced, or in trees being cut during campground re-construction. Displaced individuals would likely move to alternate roost sites in surrounding forested habitat. The likelihood of tree removal affecting an individual eastern small-footed myotis is low because the literature indicates that this species prefers to roost in rocky outcrops or buildings. The maintenance of the existing roads, trails, and openings in and adjacent the project area would continue to provide potential foraging habitat for bats. There is a slight potential for both action alternatives to displace northern bog lemming, although the potential for presence of this species in the project area is low. The duration of disturbance would be short and the amount of riparian habitat that might be impacted would be minimal. Therefore, the potential for the proposed action to displace individual northern bog lemmings is low. Rehabilitation in the campground should not reduce the amount or quality of existing suitable habitat. There may be some minimal direct effects during campground re-construction to Brown s and third ameletus mayfly habitat from sedimentation into streams. Implementation of best management practices and Forest-wide standards and guidelines should minimize impacts to these species. The potential for presence of Bailey s sedge and Autumn coralroot is low; botanical surveys did not locate any of these species in the project area. Rehabilitation efforts in the campground would likely occur during the snow-free season when Bailey s sedge and Autumn coralroot may be above ground. Therefore this project could impact individuals if they are present, but is not likely to eliminate a population. In the long term, habitat suitability would be maintained for both plant species, so long-term persistence of the species should not be affected. Non-Native Invasive Species (NNIS) The analysis area for this resource is Dolly Copp Campground. Two NNIS infestations were mapped in the campground in 2005 (2005 unpublished report). Berberis thunbergii (Japanese Barberry) Japanese barberry was located but has since been eradicated in the campground and is no longer present. Elaeagnus umbellata (Autumn Olive) will be eliminated in the campground prior to any rehabilitation work occurring in the project area. Under Alternative 1, there would be no effects to NNIS because existing conditions would not change in the campground. Under Alternatives 2 or 3, the overall risk rating assigned for the Dolly Copp Campground Rehabilitation Project is Low. Post project monitoring of the area disturbed by this project should be implemented to detect colonization of the site by NNIS. There is a risk of introducing NNIS from past, present, and future activities. Post project monitoring, as well as incorporating Forest Plan standards and guidelines, reduces this potential for cumulative effects from action alternatives. Recreation The analysis area for this resource is Dolly Copp Campground. Effects on the campground itself are described in the analysis of the central issue above. Other recreation uses of the site include hiking on the Great Gulf Link and Daniel Webster-Scout Trails, cross-country skiing on the Hayes Copp Ski Trail, and informal off-season use for strolling and dog-walking. 23

24 White Mountain National Forest Androscoggin Ranger District Access to the hiking trailheads may be affected during project implementation. Likewise, informal uses during the off-season may be affected by implementation activities that would be scheduled to avoid the peak-use camping season. No effects are anticipated to the ski trail, nor are any long-term effects anticipated for any recreation use because the campground will remain in essentially the same layout following selection of any alternative. Soil Resources The analysis area for this resource is Dolly Copp Campground and the analysis focuses on soil productivity. Under Alternative 1, impacts to soil productivity would not extend beyond those that occur in nature. Under Alternatives 2 and 3, soils disturbance would occur during implementation of each element of the project. Soils permanently compacted under roads or other features would lose productivity, and soils reclaimed by relocation would regain productivity over time. The effects of Alternative 3 would be less than Alternative 2 because fewer activities would occur. Water Resources The analysis area for water resources includes the watersheds of first and second order streams draining into the Upper Peabody River Watershed, and portions of the project area draining directly into the Peabody River. The analysis focuses on water quantity, quality, and stream stability. Summary of water quantity and stream stability effects The addition of pedestal hookups for water and up to three shower facilities in Alternative 2 would increase water use to some extent. Because of factors limiting this use, the withdrawal is not expected to have a significant effect on the availability of water for humans and ecosystems. Reconstruction of water and wastewater systems may reduce use by an unknown amount by preventing pipe leakage. Culvert replacements and infrastructure relocation will improve the stability of streams by enabling them to accommodate high flows. Alternative 3 would result in a smaller increase in water use, since no pedestal hookups are proposed. All other effects of this alternative are identical to Alternative 2. A cumulative effect on water quantity would not be expected under either action alternative, and stream stability would be expected to improve due to improved culverts and reducing campsite encroachment on riparian areas. Summary of water quality effects Under Alternative 2, existing threats to water quality would be mitigated by improvement of failing water and wastewater systems and provision of a dump station. Reconstruction and maintenance of roads, campsites, and other constructed features may result in a short-term, localized increase in sedimentation due to ground disturbance, but best management practices would minimize the amount of sediment reaching streams. These activities would be expected to reduce sedimentation into streams in the long term. The water hookups in the proposed action could potentially have an indirect effect on water quality due 24