Juneau Ranger District

Transcription

1 Environmental Assessment United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service Tongass National Forest Alaska Region Juneau Ranger District Trail of Time, Adjacent Area Trails, and Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center Improvements Project Juneau Ranger District, Tongass National Forest, Alaska February 2010

2 ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS ACMP ADF&G ANILCA BMP CEQ CFR CZMA EA EFH EIS Forest Plan FSH FSM GIS LUD MIS NEPA NFS USDA WAA Alaska Coastal Management Plan Alaska Department of Fish and Game Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act Best Management Practice Council on Environmental Quality Code of Federal Regulations Coastal Zone Management Act Environmental Assessment Essential Fish Habitat Environmental Impact Statement Tongass Land and Resource Management Plan Forest Service Handbook Forest Service Manual Geographic Information System Land Use Designation Management Indicator Species National Environmental Policy Act National Forest System United States Department of Agriculture Wildlife Analysis Area The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or part of an individual's income is derived from any public assistance program. (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 to USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C , or call (800) (voice) or (202) (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

3 Chapter 1, Purpose and Need Background This Environmental Assessment (EA) describes and analyzes the effects of the Juneau Ranger District proposal to reconstruct the Trail of Time, Steep Creek Dike, and upper Powerline Trails to provide a fully accessible trail corridor, correct safety hazards, minimize resource damage, improve and upgrade interpretive information, and provide additional interpretive and trail opportunities. It also includes installation of elevated walkways on the Photo Point and Nugget Falls Trails and installation of handrail fencing to reduce bear/human encounters around portions of the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center (MGVC) complex. The Juneau Ranger District began Trail of Time planning in the 1990 s. Design Narratives were produced in 1994 and Additional drawings to improve the Trail of Time were submitted in Some of the described work in those plans has been completed. Present planning efforts have incorporated ideas from previous proposals, and include new ideas to keep pace with changes to the physical and human environment of the area. This project will complete the objectives of the past planning efforts. In this EA the Forest Service will analyze the effects of the proposed plans on resources and people. The decision on how this project will proceed will be made by the Juneau District Ranger in February Project Area Description The project area for this EA is bounded by Mendenhall Lake, Glacier Spur Road, and the eastern boundary of the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area (MGRA) on the Juneau Ranger District of the Tongass National Forest (see Figures 1 and 2 at the end of the EA). The project area includes the MGVC, Trail of Time, Nugget Falls, and Photo Point Trails and encompasses approximately 35 acres. The surrounding MGRA was established in 1947, and encompasses 5,815 acres. This area is located at the head of the Mendenhall Valley, approximately 12 miles from downtown Juneau, Alaska. Elevations through much of the area are less than 100 feet above sea level. On both sides of the area, mountains rise abruptly to over 4,000 feet. The Mendenhall Glacier is currently retreating between Mount McGinnis on the west and Mount Bullard on the east, and may soon retreat up and out of Mendenhall Lake, its current terminus. The glacier s source originates approximately twelve miles up in the Juneau Icefield. The MGRA includes parts of Mount McGinnis, the terminus of the Mendenhall Glacier, Mount Bullard, Mendenhall Lake, the beginning of the Mendenhall River, and the uplands bordering the lake. In 1962 the MGVC was completed and dedicated to the furtherance of the understanding and enjoyment of glacial phenomena. Area trails were first established by gold seekers at the turn of the century, and over time have been improved and expanded for recreational use. The Mendenhall Glacier is the primary tourist attraction for the City of Juneau, Alaska. Juneau Ranger District 1

4 Purpose and Need In 2009, the MGVC complex received over 400,000 visitors during May through September. Over 3,000 visitors a day use the Photo Point Trail during the summer season. A large percentage of visitors are older people, many of whom have restricted mobility. There has been increased interest in providing more recreation opportunities that are fully accessible in the vicinity of this heavily visited site. The Trail of Time has been the focus of these planning efforts because of its proximity to the MGVC and because it offers many interpretive opportunities. With glacial retreat vegetation has advanced, and runs of sockeye and silver salmon have become established in Steep Creek next to the MGVC. As a result, the MGVC complex now also includes a fish and black bear viewing component. Each year approximately a dozen adult black bears use the complex for foraging from mid-april through mid-november. These bears wander throughout the complex and require active management by center staff. Black bears are creatures of habit and year after year use the same routes to access food sources in the complex. Some of these routes cross heavily used pedestrian trails. Black bears cross the Photo Point Trail at its junction with Nugget Falls Trail, and both trails are interconnected with the Trail of Time. When a bear crosses at this location staff must actively direct people out of this location to allow bears to get across the trail while providing for visitor safety. Platforms have been used successfully at this site in other locations; currently the Steep Creek viewing platforms and elevated walkways have handrail fences around them which allow visitors to view salmon and bears safely at close distances while enabling bears to move through their habitat freely. There is a need for enhanced accessibility and safety, increased visitor capacity, and additional interpretation on and along the trails and other developments at the MGVC because of the changing uses and conditions in this area. The purpose of this project is to provide accessible parking, a fully accessible trail corridor, correct safety hazards, minimize resource damage, improve and upgrade existing interpretive information facilities, and provide additional interpretive and trail opportunities at MGVC. Proposed Action The Proposed Action (Alternative 2) is divided into two components: Trail of Time and adjacent trails improvements, and the Photo Point/ Nugget Falls trails elevated walkway and MGVC handrail fencing components (see Figure 3). The first component is reconstruction of the Trail of Time, Steep Creek Dike, and upper Powerline Trails and associated facilities. The first component would include: constructing a 4-5 vehicle parking lot; improving accessibility of trails as well as constructing accessible trail; constructing small sections of trail to provide access to interpretive sites; adding railings and fixing bridges; restoring the Cobble Shelter; paving about 940 feet of trail; and construction/reconstruction and new signing at interpretive sites. Reconstruction activities would take place along the entire length of the existing trail with portions of the trail needing removal of rock by blasting or drilling and adding or removing fill. The total length of trail improvement for the first component is 6,030 feet. Juneau Ranger District 2

5 The second component involves installation of elevated walkways at the intersection of the Photo Point and the new Nugget Falls Trails, and installation of handrail fencing to reduce bear/human encounters around portions of the MGVC complex. A full description of the Proposed Action is included in Chapter 2 of this EA. Regulatory Framework This proposal is consistent with the direction in the Tongass National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan (Forest Plan - USDA Forest Service 2008). The MGVC and associated trails and developments are located in a Special Interest Area Land Use Designation (LUD). The objective of this LUD is to preserve areas with unique archaeological, historical, scenic, geological, botanical, or zoological values. This proposal is consistent with direction given in the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area 1996 Management Plan (USDA Forest Service April 1996). This plan outlines Approved developments not yet constructed that include completing the rehabilitation of the Cobble Shelter and to complete interpretation of the Trail of Time. The plan s objective is also: to emphasize environmental education programs and ethical wildlife and fish viewing through the recreation area; to design vandal-resistant features into all new, and when possible, existing facilities and developments; and to protect sensitive area plants, soils, cultural, historic, or aesthetic resources that are in danger of experiencing unacceptable resource damage throughout the recreation area. The Visitor Center Unit will continue to be managed to accommodate intensive public use; addressing public safety first, environmental protection second, and compatibility of recreation uses third. This project meets goal 2, objective 2a of the Alaska Region Draft Emphasis Area plan by enhancing the health, stability, quality of life, and adaptability of communities in Southeast Alaska. It links to the National Forest Service Strategic Plan, objective 2d, increasing accessibility of a full range of uses, values, products and services to a diversity of people and underserved and low-income populations. Decision Framework The Juneau District Ranger is the Responsible Official for this decision. Given the Purpose and Need, the Ranger will review the alternatives considered, public comments, and resource analysis to determine whether or not, and how, to proceed with improvements to the MGVC complex and how the District will meet Forest Plan objectives, safety and resource concerns, public needs, and budget levels. A finding of the significance of the effects and consistency with standards, guidelines, goals, and objectives of the Forest Plan and other laws and regulations will be included in this decision. The decisions and the rationale for the decision will be documented in the project Decision Notice. Public Input Public input was solicited via a scoping letter sent on November 18, 2009, the Tongass National Forest Schedule of Proposed Actions (SOPA), news releases, and meetings with interested organizations in Juneau, Alaska. The District received two comments during scoping seeking clarification and additional information. A Legal Notice for this project was published in the Juneau Empire on December 11, 2009 starting a 30-day comment period. No comments were received during the 30-day comment period. The public Juneau Ranger District 3

6 involvement activities conducted for this EA are summarized in a chronology shown in Chapter 4 of this EA. Issues and Concerns For the purposes of this analysis, issues identified during the public involvement process are categorized as either significant or non-significant. Significant issues are used to formulate and design alternatives. Non-significant issues were identified as those that did not lead to the development of alternatives, but were addressed in this EA. Significant Issues No significant issues were identified that would require the development of an alternative to the Proposed Action. Non-significant Issues We received comments both supporting the Trail of Time, Adjacent Area Trails, and Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center Improvements Project proposal and some that had concerns about the proposal. Two non-significant issues were brought forward through internal scoping and were used to help design the Proposed Action. 1) Protecting an American dipper nesting area 2) Siting a proposed trail re-route section to minimize impacts to heritage resources and important bear foraging habitat. An American dipper (a migratory bird) nesting area is near a popular section of the Trail of Time. People are attracted to a scenic site barely visible from the trail, and they often try to get closer to the attraction without knowing they are encroaching upon this nesting area. The Proposed Action would include trimming (not removing) some vegetation near the trail to give visitors a better view of the attraction, so they are not compelled to try and bushwack their own trail. This will minimize encroachment upon the nesting area. Below the historic parking lot on Powerline Trail, a re-route of the Trail of Time is necessary to reduce grades to accessibility standards. Due to heritage concerns, the re-route was originally designed to parallel Steep Creek near its bank. In consultation with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and Forest Service Fisheries and Wildlife Biologists, it was determined that the proposed re-route should be located closer to the parking lot, allowing for a greater buffer along Steep Creek were bears regularly forage on salmon. Moving the proposed trail reroute as far as practical from Steep Creek (to the east) further protects fisheries and water quality resources. The compromise re-route was accepted by all specialists as providing adequate consideration for all affected resources. Permits, Certifications, and Other Requirements The Forest Service is required to obtain concurrence from the State of Alaska, Department of Coastal and Ocean Management (DCOM) on a coastal zone consistency determination to proceed with the proposed action. The Forest Service would also obtain concurrence from ADF&G for any in-water work in fish bearing streams, including culvert removal, in Juneau Ranger District 4

7 accordance with AS , 11 AAC 110, and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) 10MU between the Alaska Region of the USFS and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. A Nationwide Permit will be required from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a small amount of fill needed along the Trail of Time re-route to be built between the lower and upper Steep Creek bridges. Planning Record Additional documents, including a more detailed analysis of project area resources, may be found in the project planning record located at the Juneau Ranger District Office in Juneau, Alaska. Other reference documents such as the Forest Plan are also available at the Juneau office. The Forest Plan is also available on the Internet and CD-ROM. Juneau Ranger District 5

8 Chapter 2, Alternatives Considered Introduction This section describes and compares the alternatives considered for the Trail of Time, Area Trails, and MGVC improvements project. It includes a description and maps of the alternatives. The Responsible Official considers two alternatives in this EA. Alternatives Considered in Detail The District Ranger considers two alternatives in detail in this EA. In addition to a No Action Alternative (Alternative 1), the Proposed Action (Alternative 2) is considered in detail. Under the No Action Alternative, no changes to trail or visitor center management would take place in the project area. Maps of the alternatives are provided at the end of this EA. Alternative 1 (No Action) Alternative 1 (No Action) serves as the baseline for comparing the action alternatives. No changes to trail or visitor center management would take place in the project area (see Figure 2). Current maintenance of MGVC area developments would continue to occur. Alternative 2 (Proposed Action) Alternative 2 is the Proposed Action. This alternative was used to initiate public comment on the project. It was the focus of a scoping letter in November The Proposed Action (Alternative 2) is divided into two components: Trail of Time and adjacent trails improvements, and the Photo Point/ Nugget Falls trails elevated walkway and MGVC handrail fencing projects (see Figure 3). The first component is reconstruction of the Trail of Time, Steep Creek Dike, and upper Powerline Trails and associated facilities. This component would include the following 18 actions: 1) Construct a parking lot for 4-5 vehicles and provide an information kiosk adjacent to the Steep Creek Dike Trail to provide safe accessible access to the southern portions of the trail complex. The parking lot ground foot print would be approximately 55 wide and 85 deep and accommodate accessible and standard parking. 2) Improve the Steep Creek Dike Trail (approximately 435 feet) to provide easier accessible access to the Trail of Time including adding fill to the eastern portion of the trail to make an accessible grade just before the junction with the Trail of Time. 3) Construct protective railings around the north and south abutments of the Lower Steep Creek Bridge. 4) Construction of an additional 740 feet of accessible trail that would extend from the first switchback above the Lower Steep Creek Bridge in a southerly direction below the 1930 s Mendenhall Glacier parking lot and connecting to the Upper Powerline Trail. Approximately 180 feet of this traverses several switch-backs. Juneau Ranger District 6

9 5) Improve to an accessible standard the Upper Powerline Trail from its intersection with the trail re-route described in #4 above north to its intersection with the Trail of Time. From the #4 re-route/powerline Trail intersection south to the rock gorge, the Powerline Trail will be improved, but will not be brought up to a fully accessible standard. The rock gorge will be traversed with a stone stair case and stone path so the trail fits the historic character of this setting. 6) Construct a new interpretive trail approximately 60 feet long starting at the north end of the 1930 s parking lot. The trail would parallel the old parking barrier boulders along the parking lot edge with a filtered view toward the glacier. The historic parking lot would be partially cleared and interpretive displays would be developed to convey the history of the area to visitors. 7) Construct a new 50-foot long trail on the Upper Powerline Trail to the old 36 diam riveted-iron waterline with an interpretive display explaining the history of the flume waterline and its function to provide power to the historic Treadwell Mine. 8) Construct a new 25-foot long trail and interpretive display at the President Harding photograph site. 9) Rework the steep 239-foot portion of the existing Trail of Time with steps and rocks at each end to indicate non-accessibility from its junction with the new re-route above the Lower Steep Creek Bridge to its junction with the Powerline Trail just below the Upper Steep Creek Bridge. 10) Construct a new 40-foot long trail and interpretive site to Drinking Fountain Rock just below the Upper Steep Creek Bridge. 11) Replace the Upper Steep Creek Bridge including extending the abutment on the south side. 12) Rehabilitate the historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) era Cobble Shelter near the Upper Steep Creek Bridge using guidelines established in a State Historic Preservation Office approved rehabilitation plan. The shelter would be treated as a historical artifact and the historic qualities of the structure will be maintained. Interpretive displays, including ones focused on the history of the CCC, will be provided at the shelter. 13) Construct a new 50-foot long trail and observation deck to a view point looking toward the Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls approximately 310 feet east of the MGVC observation deck. 14) Connect the Trail of Time near the top of the staircase that leads to the observation deck of the MGVC with the existing accessible ramp that leads to the front door of the MGVC by a combination of elevated walkway and blasting an 8 percent grade trail thru the rock slope adjacent to the southeast and southwest sides of the MGVC. 15) Pave two portions of trail, a) 310 feet of trail from the MGVC to the new observation viewpoint, and b) 633 feet from the Glacier Spur Road along the Steep Creek Dike Trail to the Lower Steep Creek Bridge. This paving will provide a hardened surface on the highest use portions of the trail. Juneau Ranger District 7

10 16) Reconstruct all existing interpretive sites developed including the 1916, 1920, and 1936 ice limit rock carvings, and add the following interpretive exhibits (a-o): Historic photos and accompanying text will be arranged for the following historic sites: a) southwest corner of Powerhouse showing Powerhouse and old trestle, b) southeast corner of 1930 s parking lot approximately 130 feet from top of rock gorge showing 1930 s cars in parking lot, c) northwest end of 1930 s parking lot by parking barrier boulders showing boulders and glacier, d) at President Harding site showing President Harding e) at or near Lower Steep Creek Bridge showing Mendenhall Falls, f) at Drinking Fountain Rock showing the rock, g) just beyond the north abutment of Upper Steep Creek Bridge showing Cobble Shelter, rocked path, and glacier h) at the Cobble Shelter with photos of the shelter, i) carved Nugget Creek Trail sign rock showing man with trail sign rock, j) at ice limit 1920 site photo of Harding Falls k) just before new observation deck trail photo of Trail of Time looking southeast showing historic Nugget Creek Power Complex waterline and Cobble Shelter, l) new observation deck with numerous photos of glacier at different times, m) just above steps by MGVC photo of Mary Bartholomew, n) patio observation deck photo showing river just below MGVC site, o) patio observation deck photo showing MGVC under construction and interpretive exhibit explaining the history of the MGVC. 17) Install new signing for the Trail of Time, East Glacier, and Nugget Creek Trails including the trail heads and trail junctions. 18) Reconstruction activities would take place along the entire length of the existing trail with portions of the trail needing removal of rock by blasting or drilling and adding or removing fill to achieve an 8 percent grade or less to meet accessibility standards, and to achieve a crowned surface on all gravel portions of the trail to drain water. The total length of trail improvement for the first project is 6,030 feet. The second component involves installation of elevated walkways at the intersection of the Photo Point and the new Nugget Falls Trails, and installation of handrail fencing to reduce bear/human encounters around portions of the MGVC complex. These improvements would provide physical structures that would keep humans and bears from occupying the same areas in close proximity. Handrail fences would help direct bears away from high human use areas, and would also keep people on established trails. Overpasses created by elevated walkways would allow bears unimpeded access to cross trails or areas without conflicts with human pedestrians. These improvements will lessen hazards associated with bear viewing at the glacier, while providing bears access to food resources. The elevated walkway on the Photo Point Trail would be approximately 50 feet long by 9 feet wide, and on Nugget Falls Trail it would be approximately 210 feet long by 6 feet wide. Handrail fence would be constructed from the top of the accessible ramp from the Steep Creek viewing area and connect to the northwest corner of the pavilion with a gate access to the beach below. Another handrail fence would be constructed from the main rock wall of the MGVC parking lot and extend north along the main MGVC sidewalk around the viewing circle and along the short rock wall going north connecting with the Photo Point Trail elevated walkway fencing. The viewing circle area would have a small gate and steps to allow access to the beach to the north. The fence would extend north from the Photo Point elevated walkway fencing approximately 100 feet. Another handrail fence and narrow Juneau Ranger District 8

11 sidewalk would be constructed on the edge of the parking lot from the northwest corner of the bus shelter to the top of the staircase that leads to the Steep Creek viewing area. The fencing would continue around the back of the bus shelter and parallel the sidewalk for approximately 200 feet toward the Steep Creek parking area. Access to the beach areas may be restricted at times or seasonally by limiting access through the gates. Under the Proposed Action, viewing areas and interpretive points will be improved through minor vegetation management. Design Elements or Mitigation Measures Common to All Alternatives The following design elements would be implemented to reduce or prevent negative effects: Most major construction work will occur during lower visitor use periods in early May or September and October. Other, less disruptive work will occur during the summer months, but will take advantage of early morning and evening hours for mobilizing equipment, or moving stockpiles of materials. Where feasible, consider scheduling the footbridge replacement, parking lot construction, and trail reconstruction nearest Steep Creek during established fish work windows for Steep Creek (generally June 1- July 15, per ADF&G Habitat Conservation guidelines). While this is not a requirement, it would decrease the potential for aquatic resource impacts in the unforeseen occurrence of a fuel spill or unseasonably large rain event. Best Management Practices (USDA Forest Service 2006-FSH ) will be implemented related to stream protection, erosion control, and other grounddisturbance including : 12.6 Riparian Area Designation and Protection, 12.8/12.9 Hazardous Waste Prevention and Pollution Contingency Plan, Control of Excavation and Sidecast Material, and Control of In-Channel Operations. In-stream work would be completely avoided. When replacing the Upper Steep Creek Bridge, equipment would be moved to the site from the south via Powerline Trail; the existing bridge would be removed in parts with the help of the equipment and without entering the channel (the railings, decking, and then the beams would be lifted with power equipment). The abutments would remain in place. The new bridge will be slightly longer, and the construction would reverse the process described for removal. Trim (but do not remove) vegetation near the trail on the upstream side of the Lower Steep Creek bridge to give visitors a better view of the attraction while protecting American dipper nesting habitat. Due to the historic nature of the site, the minimum number of historic interpretation signs should be set at 10, and funding for them should receive equal or greater priority than other components of the project. If the design principals and location for the ADA-compliant ramp behind the MGVC change from those provided to SHPO, the plans will be re-submitted and re-evaluated for heritage effect and re-submitted to SHPO. The rehabilitation of the Cobble Shelter will be completed per specific guidelines detailed in a thoroughly developed rehabilitation plan prepared in accordance with the Juneau Ranger District 9

12 Secretary of the Interior s Standards for Restoration (Appendix B of the Heritage Resource Review-Myron 2010). If human remains or items protected by the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act are discovered during implementation, work should cease in the immediate vicinity, and the Juneau District Archaeologist will be notified. Plants native to the area and originating near the project area will be used for revegetation or restoration work; if local native plants are unavailable or impractical, revegetation seed mixtures should be compliant with Tongass National Forest guidelines for revegetation (Cole 2006). Use of hay or straw bales for erosion control should be avoided. Use weed-free jute or coco matting, synthetic sediment fence or other weed-free materials where necessary. Equipment and materials brought to the project site should be free of plant propagules. Current populations of the high priority invasive species, oxeye daisy, should be treated in the vicinity of the Visitor Center by the Forest Service. Forest Service personnel and contractors engaged in ground disturbing activities should be made aware of the risks that these activities cause for introduction and spread of invasive plants. If any previously undiscovered sensitive plants are encountered at any time prior to or during implementation of this project, protect the population and avoid any disturbance in the area containing the population (and similar habitats in that vicinity). The district or forest botanist/ecologist should be notified immediately to evaluate the population and recommend avoidance or mitigation measures. Monitoring Monitoring and evaluation is a quality control process for implementation of the Forest Plan (USDA Forest Service 2008a). Monitoring and evaluation allows a means to respond to changing conditions and a process for implementing corrective measures. The Districts will need to ensure that decisions, including mitigation, are carried out (project implementation monitoring). Juneau Ranger District 10

13 Comparison of Alternatives The following table summarizes the major components and the effects of the No Action and Proposed Action alternatives as presented in Chapter 3 of this EA. Table 2-1: Comparison of Alternatives Activity or Effect Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Feet of trail in project area 5,065 6,030 Feet of trail that are ADA accessible in MGVC area Number of new or updated interpretive signs in MGVC area 3,730 9, Feet of elevated trail in MGVC area 2,630 2,800 Juneau Ranger District 11

14 Chapter 3, Analysis of Alternatives Introduction This chapter briefly describes the affected environment and the environmental consequences of Alternatives 1 and 2. Direct, indirect, and cumulative effects are disclosed. Effects are quantified where possible, but qualitative discussions are also included. The following discussion of resources and the potential effects associated with each of the alternatives takes advantage of existing information included in the Forest Plan Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS-USDA Forest Service 2008b); other project Environmental Assessments (EAs); project-specific resource reports and related information; roads analyses; and other sources as indicated. Where applicable, such information is briefly summarized and referenced to minimize duplication. This EA hereby incorporates by reference the project planning record, and the specialist/resource reports contained in the project record (40 CFR ). The project record for this project includes all project-specific information, including resource reports, Biological Evaluations, and other results of field investigations used to support the analysis and conclusions in this EA. The project record is located at the Juneau Ranger District Office in Juneau, Alaska, and is available for review during regular business hours. Information from the record is available upon request. Analyzing Effects Environmental consequences are the effects of implementing an alternative on the physical, biological, social, and economic environment. They include direct, indirect, and cumulative effects, and unavoidable adverse effects. Effects in this EA are summarized from specialist reports in the project record. The analysis area for most resources is the project area, unless stated otherwise. Analysis methods and data sources for each resource are described in specialist reports in the project record. Available Information Analysis methods and data sources for each resource are described in specialist reports in the project record. Analysis of the Alternatives by Resource The analysis in this EA is organized by resource in alphabetical order. Aquatic Resources The aquatic resources addressed in this section include: fisheries/watershed/hydrology, soil, and wetlands. Additional information regarding the existing aquatic resources in the project area is in the Fisheries Report for this EA. Juneau Ranger District 12

15 Affected Environment Fisheries/Watershed/Hydrology Habitat in the area is predominately wooded uplands characterized by second-growth Sitka spruce and scrub alder. Steep Creek (# , ADF&G Anadromous Waters Catalog) winds through a portion of the project area and is the primary focus of fisheries and water quality protection. ADF&G list sockeye and coho salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka and O. kisutch respectively) in the stream below the anadromous barrier (located within a few yards of Site 3 Figure 3). Dolly Varden (Salvelinus malma) can also be found in the system both in resident and sea-run form. From the anadromous barrier downstream to Site 1 is where the majority of spawning habitat is located. Mendenhall Lake (# Anadromous Waters Catalog) is listed as hosting sockeye and coho salmon, Dolly Varden char, and cutthroat trout (O. clarki). Gradual trail improvements over the past few years, such as new lower bridge with abutments outside bankfull, railings along the lower trail section to limit off-trail excursions by the public, and more active beaver dam management allowing for bedload movement, have improved existing conditions along the Steep Creek corridor. Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Fish Species Federally listed salmon (e.g. Puget Sound Chinook salmon- O. tshawytscha) and steelhead stocks (O. mykiss) are not present within the project area; they are found only on the outer coast of the Tongass National Forest. These stocks are not within the project area and would thus not be affected by the proposed activities. Occasional Chinook salmon are observed in Steep Creek, but these are believed to be strays from the nearby hatchery. There is no record of native steelhead in Steep Creek. No Federal or State listed or proposed threatened and endangered (T&E) fish species occur on the Juneau Ranger District. No State species of special concern occur on the Juneau Ranger District as well. A recent update to the Tongass sensitive species list resulted in the delisting of all species of sensitive fish on the Tongass National Forest. As a result, there are no longer any recognized sensitive fish species located within the Tongass National Forest. Given the lack of federally listed or sensitive fish in or around the project area, there would be no effect to federally listed or sensitive fish species and no further analysis will be displayed for those fish. Soil Soil is a fundamental part of a forest ecosystem; soil health and productivity influence the long-term forest productivity. Soil development in southeast Alaska is influenced by high levels of rainfall, cool marine temperatures, and moderately low average soil temperatures. Under these conditions, organic detritus decomposes slowly, resulting in an accumulation of organic material. A thick organic surface horizon composed of forest litter is common on mineral soils. Deep organic soils develop where bedrock or other restrictive soil horizons impede the movement of water. Mineral soils develop as bedrock, glacial and alluvial deposits weather. These soils are generally thin on the recently glaciated landforms of Southeast Alaska. Juneau Ranger District 13

16 While soils provide the foundation of forest growth and ecosystem health they can also erode and may harm aquatic resources when transported into streams and rivers. Loss of soil due to mass wasting can also decrease the productivity of the site. Geomorphic processes in the forests include a variety of landslide types (mass wasting) and erosion of exposed soil (surface erosion). These processes occur naturally in the forested mountains. They are uncommon in unmanaged areas of southeast Alaska. The impacts to soils in the project area occurred when area trails were built. Trails inherently do cause some soil problems. Factors that affect soils in certain areas include but are not limited to: soil types; stream channel types; elevation; past timber harvest; and morphology. Wetlands Wetlands are valued for their physical, chemical and biological functions. Physical functions include flood conveyance, surface and ground water regulation, sediment retention and temperature moderation. Chemical functions include nutrient storage, ph moderation and carbon storage. Biological function include habitat for terrestrial, aquatic and marine plants and animals. Like much of southeast Alaska, the Juneau Ranger District contains extensive wetlands. Wetlands are known to perform significant hydrologic, biochemical, and habitat functions in a watershed. Hydrologic functions include discharge of water to downstream habitat, surface and subsurface water storage, and particulate retention. Biochemical functions include organic carbon production and storage, cycling of elements and compounds, and maintenance of characteristic plant communities. Environmental Effects Direct and Indirect Effects Fisheries/Watershed/Hydrology Alternative 1 (No Action): If no action is taken to make improvements to the Trail of Time, adjacent area trails, and the MGVC facilities, no effects to fisheries or aquatic resources are expected. The proposed actions are primarily designed to improve conditions for pedestrian access and enhance the visitor s experience, not minimize or eliminate existing negative effects to resources. Existing conditions for fish and aquatic resources in the area are considered robust and do not currently require any specific attention regarding protection or restoration. Therefore, no action on this proposal would result in no effect to the resource. Alternative 2 (Proposed Action): The fisheries analysis focused on the five project components most likely to have the potential to impact fish. In Alternative 2, no work will be performed within the floodplain of Steep Creek to construct the parking lot or to improve trail grade. No impacts to aquatic resources are anticipated from completion of these activities. The reroute of 740 feet of new trail to connect to the existing Powerline Trail is proposed on an existing forested bench located above the creek. The elevation of the bench is approximately 12 feet above creek bankfull. In addition, the lateral distance between the creek and the nearest section of the proposed reroute is 100 feet. The proposed trail does not cross any tributary streams to Steep Creek and no other active stream channels are found in Juneau Ranger District 14

17 the immediate vicinity, aside from Steep Creek itself. There would be no need for machinery to work in or pass through the Steep Creek stream channel to accomplish the trail reroute. No impacts to aquatic resources are anticipated to complete this activity. The existing abutments for the upper Steep Creek footbridge will either be used or spanned and left in place. This will not require any instream work or require the removal or addition of fill within the stream channel. The construction of a new section of trail south of the bridge will occur outside the stream channel. No impacts to aquatic resources are anticipated to complete these activities. The location of the elevated walkways in Alternative 2 is set back from Mendenhall Lake inside the existing treeline. Machinery used to install the platforms will not require access through Mendenhall Lake or along the immediate shoreline. No impacts to aquatic resources are anticipated to complete this activity. Since no in-stream work, stream crossings, or ground disturbing activities within the stream channel would take place as a result of the Proposed Action, it is expected there will be no impacts to fish habitat in Steep Creek or Mendenhall Lake. Due to the nature of work being proposed and adequate buffers that exist for each site, the likelihood for disturbance is minimal. Therefore, the potential for sedimentation from stream bank disturbance is not a concern with this project. Soil/Wetlands Alternative 1 (No Action): There would be no action taken under this alternative. The roads and trails in the vicinity of the MGVC will continue to affect watersheds, hydrology, soil and wetlands at their current levels, and resource conditions relative to roads and trails would generally remain good given continued maintenance. No changes would occur under this alternative. Alternative 2 (Proposed Action): Alternative 2 would result in the filling of 500 square feet of forested wetlands in a linear manner. A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nationwide Permit will be secured prior to construction for required fill. Field visits were scheduled with Corps wetlands experts in November and December 2009 to determine the extent of wetland impacts, and avoidance measures will be applied to the trail re-route area as advised by the Corps. This includes the use of two culverts and a foot bridge to minimize wetland fill. Only approximately 100 feet of trail for a width of 5 feet will impact forested wetlands, which the Corps believes is a minimal impact. The final area of impact was reduced through consultation with wetland, wildlife, and fishery experts. Environmental Effects Cumulative Effects Fisheries/Watershed/Hydrology There exists the potential for increased streambank disturbance over time if the trail improvements encourage increased use by both public and private entities. Increased human traffic doesn t guarantee increased resource damage. However, active trail management techniques would be required to regulate human disturbances within the Steep Creek streamcourse. Gradual trail improvements over the past few years have served to improve Juneau Ranger District 15

18 existing conditions along the Steep Creek corridor. Thus, the overall, cumulative effects to the fishery resource are expected to be minimal. Essential Fish Habitat Fish impacts may result if the project affects critical, unique, or limiting habitats used for spawning, rearing, feeding, migration, etc. The National Marine Fisheries Service defines essential fish habitat (EFH) as those waters and substrate necessary to fish for spawning, breeding, feeding, or growth to maturity. Necessary means the habitat required to support a sustainable fishery and a healthy ecosystem; and spawning, breeding, feeding, or growth to maturity covers a species full life cycle. The affected area does not contain unique habitat, nor is it considered to be limited in availability. The Proposed Action will not increase the potential for resource impacts and adverse affects to EFH are not anticipated. In the opinion of the Forest Service, there will be no adverse affects to EFH and the fishery will not be impacted such that sustainability or ecosystem health would be impaired. Soil/Wetlands The effects on soil and wetlands as a result of these projects will be negligible. Avoidance methods have been applied, and experts consulted in the design of the trail where wetlands will be filled. Alternatives 1: There are no cumulative effects on soil or wetland resources as a result of Alternative 1/ no action. Alternative 2: Trail improvements will stabilize erosion and thus benefit soil and wetland resources. The cumulative impact to these resources in the MGVC area is considered negligible. Botany This section summarizes the existing condition of general vegetation, sensitive and rare plants, and invasive plants in or near the MGVC project area and discusses how proposed activities relating to each of the alternatives might affect these organisms. Potential project effects on sensitive plants are described in detail and evaluated in the Biological Evaluation; effects on invasive plants are described in detail and evaluated in the Risk Assessment for Invasive Plants. These documents are located in the project files at Juneau Ranger District. Additionally, the only plant federally listed or proposed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Alaska is Polystichum aleuticum C. Christesen, which is endangered. It is only known from Adak Island, is not expected to occur in the project area, and will not be affected by either alternative. Juneau Ranger District 16

19 Affected Environment General Vegetation The following general habitats (or plant communities) occur in the project area: conifer forest, mixed conifer/hardwood forest, open forest, forest edge, riparian areas, streamside, rocky areas, rock outcrops, ridge tops, cliffs, areas dominated with mosses and lichens, and lake and ponds and their margins. Parts of the MGVC area are characterized by early to midsuccessional forest with scattered shrubs and herbs and moss carpet. There is an abandoned parking area and road overgrown with alder. Behind the Visitor Center is a glacially scoured bedrock outcrop. This area is bare to sparsely covered by bryophytes, biological crusts, and small patches of herbs and tree seedlings in hollows. Slopes of the western side are covered with alder, sapling trees, and scattered herbs and moss. Sensitive Plants Eighteen vascular plants are designated as sensitive in the Alaska Region; they are shown in the Biological Evaluation (BE) for Plants. Documented sightings of Sensitive plants nearest the MGVC project area are shown in Table 3-1. Table 3-1. Sensitive plants documented near the MGVC project area. Plant Name Habitat Distribution in YRD Cypripedium montanum Sidalcea hendersonii Upper beach meadow, beach/forest ecotone, open forest, and calcareous substrate Upper beach meadow, beach/forest ecotone One population near shoreline just north of Endicott River, approx. 35 miles northwest of the MGVC area In estuary at the back of Howard Bay, on southern tip of Chilkat Peninsula, approx. 21 miles west of the MGVC area Five other sensitive plants are known or suspected to occur on the District (as shown in the BE) because it contains appropriate habitat and is within the known or suspected range of the plants. Two Level 6 surveys for sensitive plants were conducted by the Juneau District Botanist in the MGVC project area. No sensitive plants were found during these surveys. Invasive Plants Invasive plants can become established in areas generally inhospitable to other plants because of the invasive plant s ability to withstand moisture and nutrient poor conditions. In Juneau Ranger District 17

20 these situations they not only survive, but can thrive to fully occupy some niches and exclude native plants. Two conditions which usually promote their establishment and spread are access to sunlight and exposed mineral soil. Invasive plants have been introduced to southeastern Alaska since Russian times. In the late 19th and early 20th century invasive plants were very likely introduced through ship traffic and during construction related to mining and fisheries facilities. More recently roads and population centers have facilitated the introduction and spread of invasive plants. Most nonnative plants known in the District occur in areas of human disturbance and activity, such as road and trail systems, parking areas at road ends, and recreational areas. Invasive plant surveys were conducted in 2005, 2006, 2008, and 2009 in the vicinity of the MGVC, including this project area. Two of the 8 invasive species found are high priority for control on the Tongass (oxeye daisy and reed canary grass); the daisy is growing in the immediate project area. Current use of the Trail of Time by hikers, walkers, and bikers, mostly during the spring to fall season, provides one method for weeds to spread. Environmental Effects Direct and Indirect Effects General Vegetation, Rare and Sensitive, and Invasive Plants Alternative 1 (No Action): Although no activities are planned under this alternative, ongoing use, potential increase in use, and subsequent increase in off-trail use could produce negative direct and indirect effects on general vegetation and potentially on sensitive and rare plant habitat. The existence of invasive plant species in the project area poses an ongoing risk of negative direct and indirect effects by spreading. Alternative 2 (Proposed Action): Since thorough surveys (Level 5 or 6) were conducted by a qualified botanist at the proper time of year and no sensitive plants were found, the project, as described, is not expected to adversely impact sensitive plants. In terms of invasive species, Alternative 2 would remove vegetation and expose mineral and organic soils as a result of trail building. Also, new materials may be brought in. Undisturbed forest habitat is unlikely to be affected. Alternative 2 creates a moderate risk of introduction or spread of invasive plants due to shade and duff removal and import of potentially contaminated materials. Alternative 2 has a low to moderate risk of introduction or spread of invasive plants due to trail construction and long time use; overall patterns of use are not expected to change with this project, however, numbers of vectors may increase due to improved accessibility. Considering all risk assessment information including the implementation of project design elements and mitigation in Alternative 2, the risk of introduction or spread of invasive plants is low. Environmental Effects Cumulative Effects Past activities and natural processes in the project area have affected vegetation and sensitive plant habitats including construction, maintenance and use of recreational facilities, fisheries projects, and de-glaciation. The results of activities in Alternative 2 combined with the results of activities listed above are slightly increased in effect, amount or duration. Consequently, there would be a slight Juneau Ranger District 18

21 negative cumulative effect in vegetation and potential sensitive and rare plant habitat conditions over time resulting from construction activities, opening of new areas to access, and potential increased use due to improved accessibility. Alternative 2 activities combined with those of Alternative 1 would result in slightly negative effect, amount or duration of cumulative effects on potential sensitive and rare plant habitat by the increased risk of introduction or spread of invasive plant species. A positive cumulative effect would derive from implementation of mitigation related to removal of existing populations of oxeye daisy. Heritage Heritage Program staff have completed a review of the Trail of Time, Adjacent Area Trails and Mendenhall Glacier Facilities Project on the Juneau Ranger District. The following is a short summary of the Heritage Resource Review of the 2010 Trail of Time, Adjacent Area Trails and Mendenhall Glacier Facilities Project Including Determination of Eligibility for Historic Mendenhall Glacier Trail of Time - JUN-1114 and Determination of Effect (Myron 2010). Affected Environment The Trail of Time project is complex and multiple historic properties are within the Area of Potential Effect (APE). Portions of the current Trail of Time correspond to a historic recreation trail which, when first constructed in 1922, was referred to simply as the Glacier Trail. As the Mendenhall Glacier receded, the trail was extended. The Historic Mendenhall Glacier Trail of Time (JUN-1114) is eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places under Criterion A: it is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history. It is significant in light of the context of the importance of tourism in Southeast Alaska history and specifically tourism and recreation at the Mendenhall Glacier. It is also significant in light of the history of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in Alaska. During the late 1930s the CCC provided some unique facilities for tourists in the vicinity of Steep Creek. On account of one of the features, the site is also eligible under Criterion D; it may yield information important to history. Per National Register guidelines (USDI/NPS 1997) the Mendenhall Glacier Trail of Time is classified as a site/trail. Its period of significance is 1922 through The historic Mendenhall Glacier Trail of Time includes 18 contributing, and nine non-contributing features, for a total of 27 features. Contributing features include the main route of the trail, four carved ice limit signs, a carved rock trail sign, drinking fountain rock, seven abandoned spur trails, and rock steps, a brass cap, a parking lot from 1930, and a garbage scatter. A self guided brochure is currently available. This simple pamphlet provides a key to 10 interpretive sites along the route, each marked with a 3 tall numbered post beside the trail. The brochure emphasizes glacial features and post-glacial-succession phenomena. Most of the posts are in poor shape and some block views of the items they are meant to identify. Portions of the current Trail of Time date to as early as 1922 and numerous features along the Juneau Ranger District 19

22 route were built by the CCC during the 1930s yet; there is little mention of the history of the trail in the self-guided brochure. Four other documented historic properties, the Nugget Creek Power Project, the MGVC itself, the Cobble Shelter, and East Glacier Trail Loop, all identified as eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Properties, are within the APE. Accessibility from the MGVC to the Trail of Time is currently by stairs which is not ADA compliant. The Cobble Shelter is in a deteriorated condition, and some rehabilitation work done in 1993 was not done to standards. Environmental Effects Direct and Indirect Effects Alternative 1 (No Action): Selection of this alternative would result in an adverse effect to the Cobble Shelter, JUN-598, the original Trail of Time, and the ice carving limit signs engraved in granite along the trail. The shelter, constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps between , is in need of careful rehabilitation in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior s Standards and Guidelines. The wood shingles on the roof are failing, the sill logs are rotting as are two of the upright logs that make up the walls of the structure. The drainage around the structure is allowing moisture to build up resulting in additional rot at the base of the building. If this building is not rehabilitated to recommended standards the continued neglect could be considered an adverse effect to the historic property. Neglect of a property which causes its deterioration is an adverse effect specifically listed in 36 CFR 800.5(a)2(vi). The carved Ice Limit and Trail Signs (Features 1-5 of the Mendenhall Glacier Trail of Time, JUN-1114) would not be restored and would continue to be adversely affected through weathering and overgrowing vegetation. Alternative 2 (Proposed Action): The Trail of Time, Adjacent Area Trails and Mendenhall Glacier Facilities Project will have no adverse effect on the qualities that make historic properties in the APE eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. Trail design deliberately takes into consideration historic features associated with the Historic Mendenhall Glacier Trail of Time and completely avoids them or continues to provide access to areas to meet the original intent and character of the trail. The project includes rehabilitation of two historic properties the newly identified Historic Mendenhall Glacier Trail of Time and the Cobble Shelter. The project will retain, renew, and enhance the historic character of both the trail and the shelter through careful rehabilitation and extensive interpretive signage featuring historic photographs. The interpretive signs are being planned by a Forest Service Interpretive Specialist who will work with archeologists and with a local historian to ensure the accuracy of their content, to include a care for the past message and to ensure photos are properly credited. Restoring carved rock ICE LIMIT signs is appropriate given the origin and intent of the signs in the first place. This is a unique opportunity for JRD to proceed with historic interpretation and will serve to further the public s understanding and appreciation of the history of the area. As part of the interpretive opportunities, visitors will have chance to learn about history of hydroelectric power generation in the area, while also being exposed to a conservation message. Juneau Ranger District 20

23 The ADA compliant ramp behind the MGVC is designed to supplement the stairs, built in 1999 as part of the expansion of the building. The stairs themselves are not an historic feature. The ramp will be hidden from view from the north, northeast and northwest by the building itself and will not substantially change the character or setting of the site if the design elements discussed in Chapter 2 of this EA and the Heritage Review are implemented. In applying the criteria of adverse effect (CFR 800.5) to the Trail of Time, Adjacent Area Trails and Mendenhall Glacier Facilities Project, an overall determination of No Historic Properties Adversely Affected is appropriate. That is, though there are historic properties present, they will not be adversely affected by the project. The project will not result in an alteration to characteristics of any of the historic properties in the area of potential effect that qualify them for inclusion in the Register [800.5(a) (1)]. In fact, in some cases, those characteristics will be enhanced. Environmental Effects Cumulative Effects Alternatives 1 and 2: Foreseeable cumulative effects expected from past and ongoing activities, both independent and commercial, have resulted in increased visitation in the area, resulting in effects which are not adverse. As a result of this project, more visitors will likely use the area. This will result in an increased opportunity to reach a broad audience with interpretation and is viewed as a beneficial effect. The most current Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area Management Plan EIS was completed in 1996 and is being revised in the near future. This document would benefit from the inclusion of a section on the management of historic properties in the area and a review of potential effects. Recreation Affected Environment Presently the Trail of Time is the second highest use trail on the Juneau Ranger District behind the Photo Point Trail. Hikers, bikers, runners, and skiers all use the trail. Being so close to the MGVC, the Trail of Time has an estimated visitors on the trail each day during the cruise ship season. A large number of historical artifacts, structures, old photographs, and information exist for the Trail of Time area. Little interpretation is provided at present along the Trail of Time, and the trail is also not fully accessible. All trails in the project area are operated and maintained by the Juneau Ranger District. The Trail of Time provides the only access to the East Glacier Loop and Nugget Creek Trails, two other popular, high-use, Juneau Ranger District trails. The termini of the East Glacier Loop Trails are located about 200 yards apart along the backside of the Trail of Time. The Nugget Creek Trail departs from the East Glacier Loop Trail 1.5 miles from the Trail of Time. The Nugget Creek Trail is 4 miles in length and terminates at the Vista Creek Shelter. Both East Glacier Loop and Nugget Creek Trails are used for hiking, running, and mountain biking. The trail junctions are poorly marked. The Trail of Time also merges with the 0.75 mile Powerline Trail that runs parallel to the Back Loop Road. The Powerline Trail is also a popular multi-use trail. The Powerline trail is completely unsigned. Juneau Ranger District 21

24 Portions of the Trail of Time and Powerline Trails have been in use since the construction of the Nugget Creek power complex (the Nugget Creek Dam, flume pipe, and powerhouse) to feed electricity to the Treadwell Mine in Douglas in the early 1900 s. The gradual recession of the glacier allowed further access along the Trail of Time. As motor vehicles grew in popularity in the 1920 s the glacier became a popular touring destination. In the 1930 s the CCC, under the supervision of the Forest Service, made various trail improvements and built the Cobble Shelter. Many of these historical sites have been abandoned and reclaimed by the forest; others have never been interpreted. Several sites are accessed by undeveloped trails in poor condition. Incorporation of historical photos with historic narratives provides an exceptional opportunity to educate visitors to the past history of this area. These photos are available for our interpretation use. Current trail interpretation is provided by a self-guided interpretive brochure that focuses on the natural history and environmental effects of the receding Mendenhall Glacier. By today s media standards, the brochure is crude and outdated. The current interpretive theme, message and method needs to be revisited and updated to compliment interpretive messages at the MGVC and the new Steep Creek Salmon Viewing Trail. Currently, ten small interpretive stations are located along the trail. Only a numbered, wooden post marks each station. In many places signs are hard to see or read, or they inhibit accessing views of the items they are meant to identify. In addition to interpreting glacial ecology, the section of the trail that crosses the lower portion of Steep Creek is a popular spot for viewing seasonal salmon runs. The current condition of the Trail of Time and other trails in the MGVC area are not in keeping with the overall management of the most visited attraction in Juneau: Barriers on the trails exceed the physical capabilities of many visitors. The majority of the trail tread is composed of compacted gravel that varies from three to five feet in width. There are no passing areas, turnouts or bench sites. The beginning of the trail leaving the MGVC patio ascends a concrete staircase of 30 steps to reach natural grade of the trail. Trail grades exceed 15 percent along the backside of the route and in many areas the trail is located alongside steep drop-offs. In these locations there are no barriers or retaining walls, which pose a falling hazard to all users. In places, the trail surfaces are flat and tend to pool water and brush limits are narrow. Steep sections of the trail preclude easy access, increase the chance of erosion, and are potentially hazardous for two-way bike and hiker interaction. For example, from the junction of the Powerline Trail and Trail of Time, between the Upper and Lower Steep Creek Bridges, the Trail of Time goes down a very steep grade, to a point where it intersects with the new lower Trail of Time. The trail grade of this steep section far exceeds the grade necessary to meet accessibility standards. The decking and beams on the Upper Steep Creek Bridge, a 40-foot span, are getting weak and need to be replaced. The south abutment is being undermined by the creek. The south and north abutments of the Lower Steep Creek Bridge have steep, hazardous drop offs. Juneau Ranger District 22

25 Some trails and spurs to interpretive sites in the MGVC area are used but are undeveloped. Some trail junctions are poorly signed. On the upper Powerline Trail, at the top of the rock gorge, the trail leads down a hazardous slope of broken rock Stopgap efforts to improve trail tread and bridge approaches took place in 2000, but none of these efforts corrected the fundamental safety issues of the trail s current location. Nor did they improve the trail to a standard commensurate with current use. The Cobble Shelter was built by the CCC in the 1930 s and has been painted drab brown. The sill logs are rotting and starting to collapse. The floor is a combination of large flat rocks surrounded by soil. The roof is moss covered and rotting and needs to be replaced. The closest parking to the Steep Creek dike entrance to the Trail of Time is across the highway and approximately 100 yards to the north. Another developed Forest Service parking area located on the west side of the Glacier Spur Road road (mile 3.9) acts as the trailhead. This parking area is also the trailhead for the new Steep Creek Salmon Viewing Trail and provides access to the Moraine Ecology Trail and Dredge Lakes Trail System. Environmental Effects Direct and Indirect Effects Alternative 1 (No Action): There would be no action taken under this alternative. Direct and indirect effects of leaving the MGVC area trails in their current state would be minimal. Some problem areas on these trails can be corrected over time with regular maintenance dollars. The greatest impact of no action is the loss of opportunities to provide a wide variety of interpretive messages, and an additional one mile of fully accessible trail at a site that sees more mobility-limited visitors than any other Forest Service attraction on the Tongass. Alternative 2 (Proposed Action): Alternative 2 would make the trails more accessible to more people in keeping with adjacency to the most heavily visited attraction in Southeast Alaska. Over 6,000 feet of additional fully accessible trail would be available to the public after construction was completed. Since the Photo Point Trail and Trail of Time host a variety of uses, and provide access to other area trails there is the potential for user conflict. The potential for conflict between day-hikers/walkers and bikers is a prime concern. The potential for user conflict would increase under Alternative 2 because improvements to the area trails will likely increase their use above current levels. The careful design of trail re-alignment, passing zones and turnouts, particularly near trail junctions and where line-of-sight is limited, in Alternative 2 would reduce potential safety issues and minimize future user conflicts. There will be some short term impacts to visitors as portions of the trails being re-furbished will have to be closed to public use for short periods of time. A mitigating factor is there are many access points to these interconnected trail systems, so complete restriction of use is very unlikely. Additionally, most major construction work will occur during lower visitor use periods, and other, less disruptive work will occur will take advantage of early morning Juneau Ranger District 23

26 and evening hours in the summer for mobilizing equipment, or moving stockpiles of materials. This schedule will reduce disturbance effects on the majority of users. Alternative 2 would provide a more pleasurable experience for more users due to decreased grades and improved accessibility. Trail grades would typically be less than 15 percent. To the greatest extent possible, grade would be kept between 5 percent and 8 percent, not to exceed 14 percent for over 50 feet. Accessible routes from the MGVC would boost the number of trail users significantly. Connecting the upper Powerline Trail to the lower Powerline Trail with improved step access through the rock gorge would provide improved access for all existing users of the Powerline Trail and the potential future users of the proposed Under Thunder Trail if it is constructed. Elevated Walkway and Bridges - Bridge and walkways will generally duplicate structure types that are being constructed on the Steep Creek Salmon Viewing Trail. This will provide a visual and practical link to both facilities. The elevated walkways and handrail fencing proposed would improve glacier and bear viewing opportunities. It would better allow the bears to move freely in their habitat, and would reduce the potential for human/bear encounters significantly. Parking - The small parking lot next to the Steep Creek Dike spur trail would provide minimal parking for disabled and non-disabled users to access trails from the south. Signs - All signing will conform to Forest Service standards. Sign color schemes will reflect special standards being used in the MGRA Viewpoints - Viewpoints may be improved through minimal short and long-term vegetative management. Benches - Bench sites will be located to take advantage of viewpoints. Interpretation - Numerous interpretive panels will be constructed. Panels will graphically represent the interpretive message. Graphic panels will not exceed six square feet in size. Graphic style will be consistent throughout with a majority of the panels focusing on the historical and glacial ecology theme. Panel frames and mounting posts will be constructed of durable material such as galvanized, coated, or painted metal; or rot resistant wood. Construction Methods The trail will be designed to accommodate small to medium-sized motorized equipment during construction activities. Trail grade, trail alignment, bridge and structure design will not only meet trail objectives but also allow for the use of this type of motorized equipment to the maximum extent possible. Construction windows will be recommended by the District fish and wildlife biologists and the MGVC director. If practicable, construction work will be timed to impact the fewest number of visitors, possibly in shoulder or low-use seasons. Safety - Safety hazards that currently exist, such as trail segments located along the edge of drop offs, steep grades, and poorly maintained bridges will be designed, relocated and reconstructed to a high level of development. Handrails, guardrails, and barriers will be designed for maximum safety. The trail will also be designed to minimize the potential for Juneau Ranger District 24

27 collisions between bikers and hikers at poorly signed and located trail junctions by improving line of sight. Outfitter/Guide Use - This project may improve guide/outfitter opportunities by increasing capacity for handling increased use as well as provide an additional attraction (historic aspect) for guided tours. Environmental Effects Cumulative Effects Alternative 1: No cumulative effects on recreation would occur, though deferred maintenance would need to be accomplished. Alternative 2: This project addresses deferred maintenance by replacing walkways and bridges that are in poor condition and do not serve the current high use level of the trail. The project will also upgrade the existing trail tread so that it is less likely to suffer from erosion and rutting, and also to minimize the cost of maintenance. This project will also replace trailhead and directional signs that have long been missing from the facility. Proposed project work will eliminate all deferred maintenance items for this trail (approximately 30 percent of cost). Interpretive opportunities will be significantly improved. Historic features, such as the Cobble Shelter, will be rehabilitated. The majority of the trail will have grades improved to meet accessibility standards Scenery Affected Environment The existing conditions of the Trail of Time and its surrounding facilities, with regards to Scenery, are consistent with the Forest Plan guidelines and prescriptions for the Special Interest Area LUD that applies to the MGVC and its surroundings. As directed by the 2008 Forest Plan, existing facilities blend, to the extent feasible, with the natural setting with their conscientious siting and consistent use of rock and native materials. The Trail of Time corridor provides opportunities for public study, use, and enjoyment of unique natural areas that are suitable to, and do not compromise, the characteristics of the area by providing a trail by which visitors can see the forest at various stages of regrowth, can learn about and visualize the movement of the glacier over time, and get views of the lake and glacier from a higher viewpoint than at Photo Point. The Scenic Integrity Objectives (SIO) for the Special Interest Area LUD are Moderate (middleground and background) and Low (foreground). The existing condition of the Trail of Time and its surroundings meet these Scenic Integrity Objectives. Environmental Effects Direct and Indirect Effects Alternative 1 (No Action): This alternative would not affect the Scenery Resources and would fully meet the Forest Plan prescribed SIO s for the area Juneau Ranger District 25

28 Alternative 2 (Proposed Action): The proposed actions for this project will keep within the prescribed SIOs for the area. The new bridge over Steep Creek will have no impact on scenery. The elevated boardwalk at the Photo Point and Nugget Falls trail intersection will be of minimal visual impact, as the materials and design used are in keeping with other projects already existing, and the trails are highly developed and see tremendous use. The observation deck above the visitor center will provide new access to views of the glacier. The new ramp behind the visitor center will be out of view from visitors down on the Photo Point trail, and will have no more of a long-term visual impact than the railing, trail and stairs that currently exist, which were also carved/blasted out of the bedrock years ago. One of the key viewpoints of this project is from Photo Point, looking back at the Visitor Center and the Trail of Time on the rock behind it. With the proposed action of the new accessible ramp, this view would have negligible visual change. The majority of the work will be hidden completely behind the Visitor Center. Construction of all elements of this project will have immediate visual impact on the trail and its visitors, in the form of fresh clearing, disturbed soil, and freshly exposed rock. Scheduling major construction outside the high visitor use season will help mitigate the visual impact of the construction activities. Within 3 years, assuming continued maintenance of the facilities, they will blend in to the surroundings. Environmental Effects Cumulative Effects Alternatives 1 and 2: No reasonably foreseeable activities are expected, and past and ongoing activities have maintained SIOs in the area, so no cumulative effects on scenery are expected. Subsistence Affected Environment Section 810 of ANILCA requires the Forest Service, in determining whether to withdraw, reserve, lease, or otherwise permit the use, occupancy, or disposition of National Forest lands in Alaska, to evaluate the potential effects on subsistence uses and needs, followed by specific notice and determination procedures should there be a significant possibility of a significant restriction of subsistence uses. An ANILCA 810 analysis addresses three factors related to subsistence uses: 1) resources distribution and abundance; 2) access to resources; and 3) competition for the use of resources. The evaluation determines whether subsistence uses within the project area or portions thereof may be significantly restricted, as defined by the Alaska Land Use Council, by any of the proposed alternatives. Subsistence Standards and Guidelines are described starting on page 4-68 of the Forest Plan. Forest Plan standards and guidelines for subsistence management are found starting on page 4-68 (USDA Forest Service 2008a). The project area occurs in Wildlife Analysis Area 2515 (WAA). Deer harvest in WAA 2515 is primarily by Juneau residents and this WAA contains a large portion of the Juneau Juneau Ranger District 26

29 suburban area, which is not open for hunting. Juneau residents are non-rural and do not qualify for Federal subsistence hunting regulations. No rural communities harvest a substantial portion of their deer in this WAA (USDA Forest Service 2008b). The project site is within the Mendenhall Lake Closed Area which is closed to hunting by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Environmental Effects Direct and Indirect Effects Alternative 1 (No Action) and Alternative 2 (Proposed Action): Based on the MIS analysis for deer above, no significant change in deer distribution or abundance is expected to result from implementing either alternative. Access and competition for the resource will not change because it is in a no hunting zone. Environmental Effects Cumulative Effects There are no other projects scheduled in the project area in the foreseeable future. No cumulative effects are expected to subsistence uses. Findings This evaluation concludes that the No Action and Proposed Action alternatives shall not result in a significant restriction on subsistence uses. Wildlife This analysis addresses wildlife and habitat effects relative to the project proposal. The project occurs within the Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area (MGRA), near the MGVC and in Value Comparison Units (VCUs) 270 and 290. Thus, the analysis area includes VCUs 270 and 290. VCUs are Forest Service land divisions that usually approximate watersheds. VCU 270 includes all of the Mendenhall Valley, downstream of the Mendenhall Lake to Fritz Cove, Auk Bay and including small drainages along Favorite Channel to the mouth Eagle River. VCU 290 includes the Mendenhall Lake and Glacier area. This analysis addresses effects in the near term (during project construction: 1-2 years) and long-term (post construction: indefinite number of years). Affected Environment The wildlife analysis area contains a wide range of typical Southeast Alaska habitats, from old-growth hemlock/spruce forest, to muskeg, to icefield and includes much of suburban Juneau. However, the project site is relatively recently deglaciated and contains young spruce/hemlock forest that includes some cottonwood, a small riparian area near Steep Creek, alder shrub, mossy rock, and grassland. Threatened, Endangered, Candidate, and Sensitive Wildlife Species Although individuals and habitat for several of the threatened, endangered, and candidate species occur within or adjacent to the analysis area, none of them are expected to occur within the area impacted by the project. No direct, indirect, or cumulative effects are expected to any threatened, endangered, or candidate species from either the No Action or Juneau Ranger District 27

30 Proposed Action alternatives. Since these species will not be affected, they will not be analyzed further in this document. Sensitive species are wildlife, fish, and plant species identified by a Regional Forester for which population viability is a concern. The USFS Region 10 Sensitive Species that occur on the Tongass National Forest are the Queen Charlotte goshawk (Accipiter gentilis laingi), Aleutian tern (Sterna aleutica), black oystercatcher (Haematopus bachmani), Kittlitz s murrelet (Brachyramphus brevirostris), and yellow-billed loon (Gavia adamsii). Of the sensitive species, only the Queen Charlotte goshawk has suitable habitat and is expected to occur within the area impacted by the project. Since no direct, indirect, or cumulative impacts are expected for any of the sensitive species, except goshawks, for either alternative, they will not be analyzed further in this document. The Queen Charlotte goshawk is a wide-ranging forest raptor that occupies old-growth forest habitat in Southeast Alaska. Goshawks inhabit forested lands favoring dense stands of conifer or deciduous old-growth for nesting and foraging habitat. The Queen Charlotte goshawk has suitable habitat and is expected to occur within the area impacted by the project. There is a known, recently active nest approximately 0.6 miles southwest of the project site. There are historic nest sites approximately 0.4 miles east of the project site. Management Indicator Species Management Indicator Species are vertebrates or invertebrate species whose response to land management activities can be used to predict the likely response of other species with similar habitat requirements (FSM ). Thirteen wildlife MIS species have been identified for the Tongass National Forest (USDA Forest Service 2008b, pp to 3-241): wolf, bald eagle, black bear, brown bear, brown creeper, hairy woodpecker, marten, mountain goat, redbreasted sapsucker, red squirrel, river otter, Sitka black-tailed deer, and Vancouver Canada goose. All of the MIS species are associated with the spruce and hemlock forests of Southeast Alaska. All of the MIS could occur within the project area. The MGVC and associated trails were developed before bears were common in the area and the facilities were not originally designed with bears and bear viewing in mind. However, as vegetation has changed since the glacier receded, and fish became established in Steep Creek, bears have become attracted to the area, in spite of the growing numbers of visitors. Bears, primarily black bears, use the project area extensively during the summer, especially while salmon are spawning in Steep Creek. So far there have not been any bear related injuries to humans, but some bears have become habituated to the large numbers of visitors in the area, and may even use humans as protection from larger bears that are less tolerant of people. Migratory Birds Over 100 species of birds migrate to Alaska from the lower 48 states to breed, nest, and fledge their young. The Tongass National Forest has identified 35 protected migratory birds and bird species of conservation concern for project level review on Tongass National Forest projects (see Wildlife Specialist Report). Bird species occupy a variety of habitats across the forest. The habitats that would be affected by this project include hemlock/spruce/cedar Juneau Ranger District 28

31 forest, mixed deciduous/spruce woodland, and shrub thicket. Under the existing condition some habitat was lost during the initial construction of the recreation site, but habitat for most species has also been gained due to glacial retreat. Two migratory bird species in the analysis area are particularly affected by current human use of the analysis area. Arctic tern nesting is being negatively impacted by visitor use off of trails along Mendenhall Lake. Arctic terns that nest along the shore of Mendenhall Lake are affected by visitors and dogs who leave established trails and trample and disturb nests while hiking along the lake shore to Nugget Falls. An American dipper nesting area is near a popular section of the Trail of Time. People are attracted to a scenic site barely visible from the trail, and they often try to get closer to the attraction without knowing they are encroaching upon this nesting area. American dippers continue to nest and forage along Steep Creek, in spite of the disturbance. Environmental Effects Direct and Indirect Effects This section summarizes information in the Biological Evaluation (BE)/Wildlife Project Level Analysis which is located in the project planning record. Level of influence of the effects on wildlife includes "negligible", "minor", "moderate", or "major. All effects in this project area were moderate or less: Negligible: Individuals would not be affected, or the action would affect an individual but the change would be so small that it would not be of any measurable or perceptible consequence to the individuals or populations. Negligible effect equate with a no impact for sensitive species. Minor: Individuals would be affected but the change would be small. Impacts would not be expected to have any long-term effects on species or their habitats, or the natural processes sustaining them. Occasional responses to disturbance by some individuals could be expected, but without interference to reproduction, or other factors affecting population levels. Minor effect equate with a "may impact individuals but not likely to cause a trend to federal listing or a loss of viability" determination for sensitive species. Moderate: Individuals would be noticeably affected. The effect could have some long-term consequence to individuals or habitat. Breeding animals of concern are present; animals are present during particularly vulnerable life-stages, such as migration or juvenile states; or interference with activities necessary for survival can be expected on an occasional basis. Frequent response to disturbance by some individuals could be expected, with some negative impacts to feeding, reproduction, or other factors affecting short-term population levels. Moderate effect equate with a "may impact individuals but not likely to cause a trend to federal listing or a loss of viability" determination for sensitive species. Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Wildlife Species Alternatives 1 and 2: Of all the threatened, endangered, candidate, and sensitive species, only Queen Charlotte goshawk are potentially affected by this project. Neither alternative would alter goshawk nesting or foraging habitat. Neither alternative would reduce the amount of productive old-growth forest, so no reduction in available Juneau Ranger District 29

32 nesting habitat is expected. Implementing the Proposed Action alternative could result in some temporary disturbance of foraging goshawks during construction (short-term). Occasional disturbance of foraging goshawks could occur as visitors use the trails and other facilities (long-term) under both alternatives. These temporary disturbances are not likely to affect the productivity of goshawks in the area. The facilities are far enough from the nesting sites that no disturbance of nesting goshawks is expected. Minor impacts are expected to goshawks under both alternatives. Management Indicator Species Alternatives 1 and 2: The expected impact to all MIS except for bears for both alternatives is negligible. Under the No Action Alternative (Alternative 1), no new habitat loss would occur. A few individual trees and shrubs will be removed if the Proposed Action is implemented, but no loss of productive old-growth forest will occur, so habitat losses are expected to be negligible. Construction impacts will consist of temporary disturbances to individuals foraging or traversing the area. Implementing the Proposed Action alternative would result in negligible impacts to all MIS except bears. Long-term disturbance would continue in the project area. Black and Brown Bears: The No Action alternative likely has a minor impact on bears. There is increasing concern that there may be negative bear-human interactions without improvements to the design and management of the facilities to keep bears and humans separate. The existing trail, on top of the old parking lot, provides additional distance, elevation, and visual obstructions (vegetation) between bears and hikers. Locating the accessible trail (Figure 3, item 4) below the old parking lot will increase the likelihood of bear-human interactions in this area, compared to the No Action alternative, because it is expected to increase the number of humans on the trail and puts the trail closer to Steep Creek, in an area used by bears foraging for salmon. Due to heritage concerns, the re-route was originally designed to parallel Steep Creek near its bank. In consultation with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and Forest Service Fisheries and Wildlife Biologists, the Alternative 2 re-route has been located closer to the parking lot, allowing for a greater buffer along Steep Creek were bears regularly forage on salmon. Consistent with the bear management plan at the MGRA, the trail may need to be closed during periods of high bear use to reduce the risk of bear-human interactions. Other work items in the Proposed Action alternative should decrease the likelihood of bear-human interactions compared to the No Action alternative. Overpasses and elevated walkways will allow bears to use known routes to traverse between resting and foraging areas without conflicts with human pedestrians. Handrail fencing will help keep people on, and bears off, established trails. The intent is to provide separate and more predictable locations for bears and people, a concept practiced at more traditional bear watching sites. Overall, the Proposed Action is likely to change the way individual bears traverse and use the Steep Creek area in the vicinity of the trails, but it should not change the number of bears using the area, or their productivity. Implementing the Proposed Action is expected to have minor effects on bears. Juneau Ranger District 30

33 Migratory Birds Alternatives 1 and 2: The habitats that would be affected by this project include hemlock/spruce/cedar forest, mixed deciduous/spruce woodland, and shrub thicket. Under the No Action alternative, the intensive use of the trails and facilities probably displaces some nesting and foraging by birds in the immediate vicinity. American dippers would continue to nest and forage along Steep Creek, in spite of the disturbance. Arctic terns would continue to be affected by visitors and dogs who leave established trails and trample and disturb nests while hiking along the lake shore to Nugget Falls. The No Action alternative has negligible effects to most migratory birds and bird species of concern, minor effects to the American dipper, and moderate effects to Arctic terns. There will be no substantial habitat loss to any species from implementing the Proposed Action. Some shrubs and a few trees will be removed in the short term, but will be restored. Due to the existence of heavily used trails in the area, few, if any, nests are likely to be encountered. Nest disturbance or destruction is most likely during May through August, but the size of the area affected is very small. By September the young birds have fledged and they would not be directly affected by any of the proposed activities. None of the action items will change the existing condition for Arctic terns. The Proposed Action would include trimming (not removing) some vegetation near the dipper nesting area to give visitors a better view of the attraction, so they are not compelled to try and bushwack their own trail. This will minimize encroachment upon the American dipper nesting area. The Proposed Action would have minor effects on most migratory birds and bird species of concern, and moderate effects to Arctic terns. Environmental Effects Cumulative Effects All Wildlife Species No other projects are scheduled in the project area in the foreseeable future. No cumulative effects are expected to threatened, endangered, or sensitive species or MIS, migratory birds and bird species of management concern under either alternative. Juneau Ranger District 31

34 Chapter 4, Other Information References Cole, F Revegetating Disturbed Sites on the Tongass National Forest. Letter of Direction to Tongass Leadership Team. July 28, Myron. R Heritage Resource Review of the 2010 Trail of Time, Adjacent Area Trails and Mendenhall Glacier Facilities Project Including Determination of Eligibility for Historic Mendenhall Glacier Trail of Time - JUN-1114 and Determination of Effect. Juneau Ranger District, Tongass National Forest. Forest Service Heritage Program. USDA Forest Service. 2008a. Tongass National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan. Alaska Region R10-MB-603b. Juneau, Alaska. USDA Forest Service. 2008b. Tongass Land Management Plan Revision: Final Environmental Impact Statement. Alaska Region R10-MB-603c. Juneau, Alaska. USDA Forest Service FSH Soil And Water Conservation Handbook, Alaska Region (Region 10), Juneau, Alaska, USDA Forest Service Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area Management Plan Revision FEIS April Copy on file, Admiralty National Monument, Tongass National Forest, Juneau, AK. United States Department of Interior, National Park Service (USDI/NPS) Guidelines for Completing National Register of Historic Places Forms: Part A - How to Complete the National Register Registration Form. Public, Agency, and Tribal Government Involvement Since October 2007 (as Trail of Time Reconstruction-Part 2) Project proposal published in the Tongass National Forest s Schedule of Proposed Activities (SOPA) Juneau Historian, Jim Geraghty offered his help. He is an expert with respect to the history of the Mendenhall Valley and specifically the Mendenhall Glacier and has been a collaborator since the planning stages of the project. October Analysis process begins on Juneau Ranger District. Issues identified, existing road and trail system map generated. November USFS IDT for Trail of Time project formed. November 16, 2009 Project lead Ed Grossman attended a Juneau Historic Resources Advisory Committee meeting and provided a short verbal description of the project and invited comment. Juneau Ranger District 32

35 November 16, 2009 The District Ranger sent letters to Marie Olsen, Rosa Miller and Bob Sam, all representatives of the Aak w Kwan. The letters included a brief description of the project as well as a request for comments. November, Scoping letter sent with maps to newspapers, radio, organizations, tribes, city administrators, and interested parties. December 4 comment deadline. December 11, Legal notice with 30 day public comment period published in Juneau Empire. Preparers Ed Grossman Ellen Anderson Dennis Chester Martha DeFreest Laurie Lamm Ron Marvin Alan Murph Rachael Myron Michelle Putz Marc Scholten Pete Schneider Dani Snyder ID Team Leader and Recreation Botany Wildlife, Subsistence Engineer Interpretive Materials Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center Information Engineer Heritage Resources Writer Editor Recreation Fisheries, Hydrology, Wetlands GIS and Landscape Architect Juneau Ranger District 33

36 Figure 1: Trail of Time, Adjacent Area Trails, and Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center Improvements Project Vicinity Map Juneau Ranger District 34

37 Nugget Falls Trail Trail of Time Trail of Time Powerline Trail Photo Point Trail Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center Steep Creek Trail **Black line on photos is due to missing aerial photo data. Legend Project Area O FIGURE 2: ALTERNATIVE 1, NO ACTION/EXISTING CONDITION

38 Key to Work and Interpretive Items displayed on Figure 3 1) Construct a parking lot for 4-5 vehicles and provide an information kiosk adjacent to the Steep Creek Dike Trail. 2) Improve the accessibility of the Steep Creek Dike Trail including adding fill to the eastern portion of the trail to make an accessible grade just before the junction with the Trail of Time. 3) Construct protective railings around the abutments of the Lower Steep Creek Bridge. 4) Construct an additional 740-foot accessible trail from the Lower Steep Creek Bridge connecting to the Upper Powerline Trail. 5) Make the Upper Powerline Trail accessible from its intersection with the trail re-route (#4) to its intersection with the Trail of Time. From the #4 re-route south to the rock gorge, the Powerline Trail will be improved, but will not be brought up to a fully accessible standard. The rock gorge will be traversed with a stone stair case and path. 6) Construct a new 60-foot interpretive trail starting at the north end of the 1930 s parking lot. 7) Construct a new 50-foot trail to the old riveted-iron waterline with an interpretive display explaining the history of the flume waterline and its function. 8) Construct a new 25-foot long trail and interpretive display at the President Harding photograph site. 9) Rework the steep portion of the existing Trail of Time with steps and rocks at each end to indicate non-accessibility. 10) Construct a new 40-foot long trail and interpretive site to Drinking Fountain Rock. 11) Replace the Upper Steep Creek Bridge including extending the abutment on the south side. 12) Rehabilitate the historic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) era Cobble Shelter. 13) Construct a new 50-foot long trail and observation deck looking toward Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls. 14) Connect the Trail of Time to the ramp that leads to the front door of the MGVC by a combination of elevated walkway and blasting thru the rock slope adjacent to the MGVC. 15) Pave two portions of trail, a) from the MGVC to the new observation viewpoint, and b) from the Glacier Spur Road to the Lower Steep Creek Bridge. Reconstruct all existing interpretive sites including the ice limit rock carvings and add interpretive exhibits: a) Powerhouse showing Powerhouse and old trestle, b) 1930 s parking lot from top of rock gorge showing 1930 s cars, c) 1930 s parking lot by parking barrier boulders showing boulders and glacier, d) President Harding site showing President Harding e) at or near Lower Steep Creek Bridge showing Mendenhall Falls, f) at Drinking Fountain Rock showing the rock, g) north abutment of Upper Steep Creek Bridge showing Cobble Shelter, rocked path, and glacier h) at the Cobble Shelter with photos of the shelter, i) carved Nugget Creek Trail sign rock showing man with trail sign rock, j) at ice limit 1920 site photo of Harding Falls k) just before new observation deck trail Trail of Time looking southeast showing historic Nugget Creek Power Complex waterline and Cobble Shelter, l) new observation deck with numerous photos of glacier at different times, m) just above steps by MGVC photo of Mary Bartholomew, n/o) patio observation deck photo showing river below MGVC site, o) patio observation deck photo showing MGVC under construction and interpretive exhibit explaining the history of the MGVC. Installation of elevated walkways at the intersection of the Photo Point and the new Nugget Falls Trails, and installation of handrail fencing to reduce bear/human encounters around portions of the MGVC complex. Juneau Ranger District 36

39 11 # * 10 f 9 8,# % * # * 3,# % * d # * %, e c Trail of Time 4 # * Trail of Time 7 6 # * 2, % Nugget Falls Trail * %#, j # * g, % h,i, %, % # * 12 b # * 5 Proposed Elevated Walkways k Powerline Trail, %,,# % *%, % # * 15 a Proposed reroute l 13 Photo Point Trail 1 14 # * n # *, % m Proposed trail addition/reroute # * 15 Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center Steep Creek Trail Legend, % Interpretive Sites # * Work Items Elevated Walkway Proposed Reroutes **Black line on photos is due to missing aerial photo data. O FIGURE 3: ALTERNATIVE 2, PROPOSED ACTION, TRAIL OF TIME, ADJACENT AREA TRAILS AND MENDENHALL GLACIER VISITOR CENTER FACILITIES PROJECT MAP