O.6 Assessment and Recommendations

This section describes the BLM’s findings on the suitability of eligible segments within D-E NCA for inclusion in the National System (Figure O.3).

Total Segment Length: 17.48 miles

Lower Terminus: Latitude, 38.836 N; longitude, 108.361 W

Upper Terminus: Latitude, 38.726 N; longitude, 180.185 W

Eligibility

Description: The Gunnison River is a large, perennially flowing river that is regulated upstream by the Aspinall Unit (Blue Mesa, Morrow Point, and Crystal reservoirs; see Figure O.4). The present flow regime is designed to mimic historic conditions to best meet habitat requirements for native warm water fish. The upper terminus of this segment is the boundary between BLM- and State-managed lands, approximately one-half mile upstream from the D-E NCA. The lower terminus is the boundary between the BLM Uncompahgre and Grand Junction Field Offices (BLM 2010d).

ORVs:

Recreational: This section of the Gunnison River provides outstanding opportunities for relatively easy half-day to multiday float trips through the D-E NCA. The river is generally Class I flat water, with an occasional Class II riffle providing a challenge for novice boaters. Though much of this river segment flows through private lands, several BLM campsites and a boat launch provide good public access. Rafts, kayaks, and canoes are the most common types of watercraft used on this section of river.

Because of its nontechnical nature and public access points, the lower Gunnison is extremely popular with novice, family and casual recreationists from across the State. In addition, the river provides the only public access to the mouth of Leonard’s Basin, a broad BLM canyon with important recreational and cultural values. Scenic canyon walls, verdant orchards and historic features add to the recreational value of this section (BLM 2010d).

Fish: This river segment is predominantly comprised of native fish species, and is identified as designated critical habitat for both the endangered Colorado pikeminnow and razorback sucker. Both species are known to reside within this segment. In addition, this segment supports exemplary populations of three BLM and Colorado sensitive species: flannelmouth suckers, bluehead suckers, and roundtail chubs (BLM 2010d).

Cultural: This segment of the Gunnison River flows through canyon country that has been inhabited by Prehistoric and Historic cultures for over 10,000 years. Over 300 Native American sites have been recorded in the vicinity, ranging from Paleo-Indian sites to Archaic hunting and occupational camps to late Historic period Ute villages. Rock art sites in the Escalante Bridge, Palmer Gulch and Leonard’s Basin areas are of extremely high quality and significance. These sites qualify for nomination to the NRHP under the following criteria:

•

Criterion C: Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction.

•

Criterion D: Yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in history or prehistory.

(BLM 2009).

Historical: The section of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad (now part of Union Pacific) running next to the Gunnison River was the first line connecting Denver to Grand Junction, reaching the Grand Valley in 1882. This line was soon connected to Salt Lake City, forming a narrow gauge transcontinental railroad link. The line was eventually replaced by a standard gauge track and remains in use through today. The importance of the railroad to developing the West makes this site eligible for inclusion in the NRHP (BLM 2009).

Tentative classification: Recreational

There are several road access points along this reach, as well as a county road bridge crossing. A railroad runs adjacent to the river along the entire segment. There are also several water diversions, but no impoundments. Several parcels adjacent to the river are irrigated agricultural lands. This river segment has very high biodiversity significance (B2) and lies within the Gunnison River Potential Conservation Area, designated by CNHP in order to protect the endangered fish and threatened cactus. This segment is also on Colorado’s 303(d) list for impaired water quality due to the presence of selenium, which is suspected of impacting native warm water fish propagation in the Gunnison River (Waterbody ID COGULG02, Colorado Water Quality Control Commission). The State of Colorado is preparing a draft total maximum daily load report with the goal of reducing the selenium concentration in the Gunnison River (BLM 2010d).

Suitability Factor Assessment

Land Ownership and Land Uses

Land ownership within ¼ mile of the ordinary high water mark:

Current land uses on the BLM-administered lands include livestock grazing, recreational boating (canoeing, rafting, and kayaking), and recreational prospecting. Current uses on the private lands include agriculture (livestock ranching and fruit orchards) and transportation of materials (coal, freight, etc.) along the Union Pacific Railroad. The State land within the WSR area is used as part of the Escalante State Wildlife Area.

Mineral and Energy Resource Activities

Through the legislation designating the NCA, all Federal minerals were withdrawn from location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and were withdrawn from operation under the mineral leasing, mineral materials, and geothermal leasing laws. There is one active mining claim within the WSR area (CMC-247911) that may have attached valid and existing rights. The Federal mineral estate does not extend beyond Federal surface ownership, so the minerals below private and State lands would be available for development. Of the WSR area, 93% is classified as having medium potential for oil and gas development, and 7% is classified as having low potential (Fowler & Gallagher 2004). There is no known potential for development of coal resources (USFS 2006). The potential for locatable mineral (primarily uranium) is classified as low. Gravel deposits exist not only within the historic flood plain of the river, but also in the adjacent geologic formations (primarily the Dakota Sandstone).

Water Resource Development

A dam on the Gunnison River was initially proposed in 1983, and the Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) withdrew mineral rights along the river for the purpose of dam construction. The project was not carried forward as an official BOR project. There are no current Federal Energy Regulatory Commission permits or pending applications for development of hydroelectric power within the river corridor.

Transportation, Facilities, and Other Developments

The Union Pacific Railroad has a track along the entire reach of the segment. Currently, up to five trains travel along the segment, generally hauling coal from surrounding coal mines. There are developments on several of the private parcels, including houses and outbuildings associated with farming (fruit orchards) and ranching. There is one bridge that crosses the river at Escalante Creek and three county roads within the WSR area (see map above). There are pumping stations adjacent to private lands that lift water out of the river for irrigation of fields and orchards.

Recreational Activities

As mentioned above, the primary recreational activities within the WSR area are multiday river boating (canoeing, rafting, kayaking) and camping. There is limited trail-based recreation on old two-track routes, primarily OHV travel.

Other Resource Activities

The other primary activities within the WSR area are related to agriculture. There is livestock grazing on the Federal, private, and State lands. This includes both cattle and sheep grazing. On the private lands, the ranching operations include the developments mentioned above, which support grazing operations along with hay/alfalfa fields. There are also several fruit orchards on private lands along the reach.

Special Areas

Of the WSR area, 63.6% is within the D-E NCA, and 15% overlaps the Wilderness and WSA (631 acres of Wilderness and 189 acres of WSA).

Socioeconomic Environment

As mentioned above, the river corridor supports agriculture and recreational businesses. River outfitting businesses provide services to approximately 2,500 visitors annually. There are three orchard operations with approximately 220 acres of fruit trees combined and one livestock ranching operation with approximately 150 acres of irrigated cropland, primarily livestock feed (alfalfa and corn).

Current Administration and Funding Needs if Designated

Within the WSR area, the BLM and the State of Colorado are responsible for the current administration of public lands. As noted above, the State land is managed as a wildlife area and the BLM lands are managed as part of the D-E NCA. If the segment is added to the National System, the BLM would be responsible for its administration. Since State and county budgets are tight, the Federal Government would have sole responsibility for the cost of managing the segment. In addition to administrative costs, purchases of private land or easements would be necessary to ensure protection of the ORVs and the tentative classification.

Reasonably Foreseeable Potential Uses of the Land and Water That Would be Enhanced, Foreclosed, or Curtailed if the Area Were Included in the National System

The reasonably foreseeable potential uses along the segment that would be enhanced, foreclosed, or curtailed include a continuation of current recreational use and development of private lands. Designation of this segment would enhance current recreational uses along the segment by providing long-term protection of flows and the scenic landscapes adjacent to the river. Reasonably foreseeable development of private land includes residential housing and mineral extraction operations (gravel mining). Designation could curtail of foreclose some or all of these private land development options.

Determination of the Extent That Other Federal Agencies, the State, or its Political Subdivisions Might Participate in the Preservation and Administration of the River Should it be Proposed for Inclusion in the National System

In a biological opinion, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) concluded the reoperation of the Aspinall Unit upstream of the eligible segment would protect habitat for the three listed fish species identified in the fish ORV. The BLM anticipates the cooperative participation between the BOR, USFWS, and the affected water users that developed the reoperation plan will continue.

The private parcels within the WSR area that fall within Delta County. Unless a subdivision is included, no permits are required for single-family residential housing construction. Records show over 20 unique parcels of private land within the WSR area. Permits are required by the county to develop gravel mining and processing operations on private land.

The existing support or opposition of designation

There is strong opposition from water users, private land owners and county government to WSR designation for this segment. As noted above in the public participation section, the Gunnison Basin Stakeholder Group recommended that the BLM find this segment not suitable. Many of the land owners along the segment participated in the stakeholder process and expressed concern that a WSR designation could impact their private property rights. The water resource managers (Tri-County Water Conservancy District, Terror Ditch and Reservoir Company, Colorado River Water Conservation District, and the North Fork Water Conservancy District) were concerned about a Federal reserve water right that could accompany designation. There was general agreement with the stakeholders that the WSR values could best be protected through local management and authorities in the legislation that established the D-E NCA.

There is support from the environmental coalition for a WSR suitable determination. The recommendation noted that the segment, as part of a “major and iconic western river of regional importance” is qualified for the type of protection provided under the WSR Act. That said, the recommendation to the BLM was only for a determination of suitability. The comments specifically stated BLM should not send a recommendation to Congress for designation.

As noted above, the DENCA Advisory Council recommended this segment be classified as not suitable and that the WSR values be protected using other administrative and legislative tools.

Suitability Determination

The BLM IDT ultimately determined that the WSR values and tentative classification would be protected through administrative actions in the Preferred Alternative of the DRMP and applicable legislation.

The IDT determined that the BOR’s decision to not carry the dam project forward and the designation of the D-E NCA and Wilderness would likely preclude development of a dam on the river that would threaten the free-flowing nature of this segment. While a mineral withdrawal still exists along the Gunnison River, the BOR has expressed interest in revoking this withdrawal.

Threats to cultural and historical ORVs for this segment are largely from unauthorized collection and vandalism by visitors to the D-E NCA. Cultural and historical ORVs are protected by a number of Federal laws, including the Antiquities Act of 1906, the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978, the Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1979, and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990. These laws would protect the cultural and historical ORVs along this segment.

Threats to the recreational ORV on this segment would result from water management that lowers river flows below levels that allow recreationists to float this section of river. The recreational ORV is currently protected by senior water rights associated with the Redlands Canal downstream of the eligible segment. Adequate flows for recreational boating would occur through the segment as water is delivered to the canal’s point of diversion near Grand Junction, CO.

Threats to the fish ORV for this segment include management actions that would reduce or damage fish habitat and water quality, as well as river flow regimes that prevent recovery of these fish species under the Endangered Species Act. It is not likely that a junior Federal reserve water right would provide enhanced protection beyond the management of the existing senior water rights through the Aspinall Unit operations. In addition, the fish ORV is protected by existing restrictions under the Endangered Species Act.

The tentative classification of the segment (recreational) means that the segment would be administratively protected from incompatible development on BLM-administered lands through Visual Resource Management Class I and II objectives proposed in the Preferred Alternative as part of the D-E NCA DRMP.

Suitability Finding

Not suitable; dropped from further Wild and Scenic study

Total Segment Length: 15.73 miles

Lower Terminus: Latitude, 38.96; longitude, 108.462 W

Upper Terminus: Latitude, 38.836 N; longitude, 108.361 W

Eligibility

Description: Sections of the Gunnison River west of Highway 50 on BLM land from the southern planning area boundary near Bridgeport to Whitewater (BLM 2009; see Figure O.5).

ORVs:

Recreational: This segment of the Gunnison River is popular for floatboating, mostly kayaking and canoeing. This stretch is described as “one of the few places in the Southern Rockies which offers a lengthy, gentle, out-of-the-way canoe trip” (Wheat 1983). Visitors travel from across the State to float through the steep-walled slickrock sandstone canyons (BLM 2009).

Fish: The USFWS designated critical habitat for the federally endangered Colorado pikeminnow (squawfish; Ptychocheilus lucius) and the Razorback sucker (Xyrauchen texanus) in 1994, which includes this stretch of the Gunnison River (59 FR 13,374 (1994-3-21)) (BLM 2009).Cultural: This segment of the Gunnison River flows through canyon country that has been inhabited by Prehistoric and Historic cultures for over 10,000 years. Over 300 Native American sites have been recorded in the vicinity, ranging from Paleo-Indian sites to Archaic hunting and occupational camps to late Historic period Ute villages. Rock art sites in the Escalante Bridge, Palmer Gulch and Leonard’s Basin areas are of extremely high quality and significance. These sites qualify for nomination to the NRHP under the following criteria:

•

Criterion C: Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction.

•

Criterion D: Yielded, or may be likely to yield, information important in history or prehistory.

(BLM 2009)

Historical: The section of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad (now part of Union Pacific) running next to the Gunnison River was the first line connecting Denver to Grand Junction, reaching the Grand Valley in 1882. This line was soon connected to Salt Lake City, forming a narrow gauge transcontinental railroad link. The line was eventually replaced by a standard gauge track and remains in use today. The importance of the railroad to developing the West makes this site eligible for inclusion in the NRHP (BLM 2009).

Tentative classification: Recreational

The tentative classification of this segment is scenic, due to a mainly inconspicuous railroad line that runs parallel to the river through this segment (BLM 2009).

Suitability Factor Assessment

Land Ownership and Land Uses

Land ownership within ¼ mile of the ordinary high water mark:

*Acreage change from eligibility report due to BLM acquisition of 400 acres.

Current land uses on the BLM-administered lands include livestock grazing, recreational boating (canoeing, rafting, and kayaking), and recreational prospecting. Current uses on the private lands include agriculture (livestock ranching) and transportation of materials (coal, freight, etc.) along the Union Pacific Railroad.

Mineral and Energy Resource Activities

Through the legislation designating the D-E NCA, all Federal minerals were withdrawn from location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and were withdrawn from operation under the mineral leasing, mineral materials, and geothermal leasing laws. The Federal mineral rights cover 85% of the WSR area, so the minerals below private lands would be available for development. Of the WSR area, 15% is classified as having low potential for oil and gas development, and 85% is classified as having very low potential. There is no known potential for development of coal resources. The potential for locatable mineral (primarily uranium) development is classified as low. Gravel deposits exist not only within the historic flood plain of the river, but also in the adjacent geologic formations (primarily the Dakota Sandstone).

Water Resource Development

A dam on the Gunnison River was initially proposed in 1983, and the BOR withdrew mineral rights along the river for the purpose of dam construction. The project was not carried forward as an official BOR project. There are no current Federal Energy Regulatory Commission permits or pending applications for development of hydroelectric power within the river corridor.

Transportation, Facilities, and Other Developments

The Union Pacific Railroad has a track along the entire reach of the segment. Currently, up to five trains travel along the segment, generally hauling coal from surrounding coal mines. There are developments on three of the private parcels, including houses and outbuildings associated with ranching. There are pumping stations adjacent to two of the private parcels that lift water out of the river for irrigation of fields.

Recreational Activities

As mentioned above, the primary recreational activity within the WSR area is multiday river boating (canoeing, rafting, kayaking) and camping). There is limited trail-based recreation on old two-track routes, primarily OHV travel.

Other Resource Activities

The other primary activities within the WSR area are related to agriculture. There is livestock grazing on the Federal lands. On the private lands, the ranching operations include the developments mentioned above, which support grazing and hay/alfalfa fields.

Special Areas

Of the WSR area, 83.1% is within the D-E NCA, and 10% overlaps the Wilderness and WSA (444 acres of Wilderness and 41 acres of WSA).

Socioeconomic Environment

As mentioned above, the river corridor supports agriculture and recreational businesses. River outfitting businesses provide services to approximately 2,500 visitors annually. There are two livestock ranching operations with approximately 155 acres of irrigated cropland, primarily for livestock feed (alfalfa and corn).

Current Administration and Funding Needs if Designated

Within the WSR area, the BLM is responsible for the current administration of public lands. The BLM lands are managed as part of the D-E NCA. If the segment is added to the National System, the BLM would be responsible for its administration. Since State and county budgets are shrinking, the Federal Government would have sole responsibility for the cost of managing the segment. In addition to administrative costs, purchases of private land or easements would be necessary to ensure protection of the ORVs and the tentative classification of this segment.

Reasonably Foreseeable Potential Uses of the Land and Water That Would be Enhanced, Foreclosed, or Curtailed if the Area Were Included in the National System

The reasonably foreseeable potential uses along the segment that would be enhanced, foreclosed, or curtailed include a continuation of current recreational use and development of private lands. Designation of this segment would enhance current recreational uses along the segment by providing long-term protection of flows and the scenic landscapes adjacent to the river. Reasonably foreseeable development of private land includes residential housing and mineral extraction operations (gravel mining). Designation could curtail some or all of these private land development options.

Determination of the Extent That Other Federal Agencies, the State, or its Political Subdivisions Might Participate in the Preservation and Administration of the River Should it be Proposed for Inclusion in the National System

In a biological opinion, the USFWS concluded that the reoperation of the Aspinall Unit upstream of the eligible segment would protect habitat for the three listed fish species identified in the fish ORV. The BLM anticipates that the successful cooperation between the BOR, USFWS, and the affected water users, who developed the reoperation plan, will continue.

The private parcels within the WSR area fall within Mesa County’s zoning requirements for an Agricultural, Forestry, Transitional (AFT) District. The AFT is primarily intended to accommodate agricultural operations and very low-density single-family residential development within the Rural Planning Area. Permits are required by the county to develop gravel mining and processing operations on private land.

Existing Support or Opposition of Designation

There is strong opposition from water users, private land owners and county government to WSR designation for this segment. As noted above in the public participation section, the Gunnison Basin Stakeholder Group recommended that the BLM find this segment not suitable. Many of the landowners along the segment participated in the stakeholder process and expressed concern that a WSR designation could impact their private property rights. The water resource managers (Tri-County Water Conservancy District, Terror Ditch and Reservoir Company, Colorado River Water Conservation District, and the North Fork Water Conservancy District) were concerned about a Federal reserve water right that would accompany designation. There was general agreement among the stakeholders that the WSR values could best be protected through local management and authorities, under the legislation that established the D-E NCA.

The environmental coalition also recommended a finding of not suitable for this segment.

As noted above, the D-E NCA Advisory Council recommended this segment be classified as not suitable and that the WSR values be protected using other administrative and legislative tools.

Suitability Determination

The BLM IDT ultimately determined that the WSR values and tentative classification would be protected through administrative actions in the Preferred Alternative of the DRMP and applicable legislation.

The IDT determined that the BOR’s decision to not carry the dam project forward and the designation of the D-E NCA and Wilderness would likely preclude development of a dam on the river that would threaten the free-flowing nature of this segment. Although a mineral withdrawal still exists along the Gunnison River, the BOR has expressed interest in revoking this withdrawal.

Threats to cultural and historical ORVs for this segment are largely from unauthorized collection and vandalism by visitors to the D-E NCA. Cultural and historical ORVs are protected by a number of Federal laws, including the Antiquities Act of 1906, the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978, the Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1979, and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990.

Threats to the recreational ORV on this segment are from water management that lowers river flows below what would allow recreationists to float this section of river. The recreational ORV is currently protected by senior water rights associated with the Redlands Canal downstream of the eligible segment. Adequate flows for recreational boating through the segment would continue to occur as water is delivered to the canal’s point of diversion near Grand Junction, CO.

Threats to the fish ORV for this segment include management actions that would reduce or damage fish habitat and water quality, as well as river flow regimes that prevent recovery of these fish species under the Endangered Species Act. It is not likely that a junior Federal reserve water right would provide enhanced protection beyond the management of the existing senior water rights through the Aspinall Unit operations. In addition, the fish ORV is protected by existing restrictions under the Endangered Species Act.

The tentative classification of the segment (scenic) means that the segment would be administratively protected from incompatible development on BLM-administered lands through Visual Resource Management Class I and II objectives proposed in the Preferred Alternative as part of the D-E NCA DRMP.

Suitability Finding

Not suitable; dropped from further Wild and Scenic study

Total Segment Length: 15.86 miles

Lower Terminus: Latitude, 38.821; longitude, 108.378 W

Upper Terminus: Latitude, 38.749 N; longitude, 108.588 W

Eligibility

Description: From the Big Dominguez Creek boundary with the Uncompahgre National Forest in the southern portion of the planning area to the confluence with Little Dominguez Creek near Bridgeport (BLM 2009; Figure O.6).

ORVs:

Recreational: Trails along and near the canyon formed by Big Dominguez Creek are used extensively by locals and also have a regional appeal. The scenic quality, geological interest, and cultural sites along the river corridor attract visitors from around the region and nation. Backpackers frequently camp in the overnight areas near the creek, and the waterfall and rock art sites are popular destinations for day trippers, who also enjoy the primitive and scenic environment (BLM 2009).

Wildlife: The area around the confluence of Big Dominguez Creek and Little Dominguez Creek is an important canyon tree frog (Hyla arenicolor) breeding area with many breeding pools found in surveys of this area. The canyon tree frog is a BLM sensitive species and was identified as a species of greatest conservation need by the State of Colorado (CDOW 2006) (BLM 2009).

Cultural: The canyon bottoms of the Dominguez Canyon area have evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years. There are numerous high quality rock art sites that constitute one of the highest concentrations in the planning area. The known rock art sites cover a long period, with some that date from over 2,000 years ago to Ute rock art panels from approximately 100 years ago (BLM 2009).

Scenic: Big Dominguez Creek runs through a large mesa dissected by deep red slickrock canyons. This has led to a magnificent contrast between the green vegetation of the immediate areas next to the creek and the steep-walled canyon. This contrast is most spectacular in the segments of the creek running through exposed sections of the incised, dark-colored Precambrian bedrock of the Uncompahgre Plateau that give way to softer benches covered with desert vegetation, before the sheer red sandstone cliffs are encountered. While hiking through the canyon, visitors also encounter many side canyons, alcoves, pinnacles, amphitheaters, and other unique sandstone formations. This unique and spectacular combination of features in conjunction with the WSA, now the Wilderness, allows visitors to encounter an outstanding desert stream in a primitive, wild environment. The stream itself has a wealth of different features, including meandering stretches steeper drops, unique rock features, and waterfalls (BLM 2009).

Geological: Throughout the canyon, the Great Unconformity, a large gap in the geologic strata where the Precambrian basement rock is overlaid by the much more recent Chinle formation, is readily accessible and apparent to visitors. The basement rocks of the Uncompahgre Plateau are extremely old and are rarely exposed elsewhere in the world. The forces of erosion that created this canyon have exposed over 600 million years of geological history in addition to creating sandstone formations that make this area outstandingly remarkable (BLM 2009).

Tentative classification: Wild

The tentative classification for this segment is wild. The segment is largely contained within a WSA, now the Wilderness* and has little-to-no evidence of modern human activity within the river corridor (BLM 2009).

Suitability Factor Assessment

Land Ownership and Land Uses

Land ownership within ¼ mile of the ordinary high water mark:

Current land uses on the BLM-administered lands include livestock grazing and trailing, hiking, horseback riding, backpacking, camping, picnicking, and OHV riding. Current uses on the USFS-administered lands include livestock grazing, hiking, mountain biking, and backpacking.

Mineral and Energy Resource Activities

Through the legislation designating the D-E NCA, all Federal minerals were withdrawn from location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and operation under the mineral leasing, mineral materials, and geothermal leasing laws was ceased. Since there are no privately owned minerals and no active claims within the BLM portion of the WSR area, there would be no mineral or energy development. The small portion of the WSR area that is in the national forest is available for coal, oil, and gas leasing. The potential for oil and gas development is classified as having “no currently recognizable potential” (Fowler & Gallagher 2004). The potential for coal development is classified as “none” (USFS 2006).

Water Resource Development

The CWCB holds an instream appropriation for all the annual flows in Big and Little Dominguez Creeks minus a minimal development allowance. There are no proposals to develop impoundments within the WSR area.

Transportation, Facilities, and Other Developments

There is a trail along Big Dominguez Creek from the lower terminus upstream to the Wilderness boundary. The trail is used for foot and horse recreational travel. The trail is also used to trail livestock (cattle) from the Gunnison River to public land grazing allotments on BLM and National Forest Service lands. There is a campground within the WSR area that includes a half a dozen campsites with picnic tables and fire rings. There are two vault toilets at the campground. There are 1.9 miles of a Mesa County road that cross the WSR area near the campground. (see map above) High-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicles are only required during bad weather and when the road has been damaged by erosion from thunderstorms. There is a small two-track route that extends from the county road to the forest boundary. This route is used by four-wheel-drive vehicles and ATVs on BLM lands. Beyond the BLM lands travel is restrict to foot, horse and bicycles on the forest lands.

Recreational Activities

As mentioned above, the primary recreational activities within the WSR area include hiking, horseback riding and backpacking within the Wilderness and camping and OHV riding outside the Wilderness.

Other Resource Activities

The other primary activity within the WSR area is livestock grazing. As mentioned above, cattle are trailed through the canyon between public land grazing allotments on both BLM and National Forest Service lands and the Gunnison River. Outside the Wilderness, the WSR area is included in both BLM and National Forest grazing allotments.

Special Areas

Of the WSR area, 82.4% overlaps the D-E NCA and the Wilderness (3,774 acres).

Socioeconomic Environment

Big Dominguez Canyon is highly valued as a recreational resource. It attracts both local visitors and visitors from outside the area throughout the year. As mentioned above, the WSR area is part of a livestock grazing operation. The WSR area is primarily used for trailing cattle.

Current Administration and Funding Needs if Designated

Within the WSR area, the BLM and the USFS are responsible for the current administration of public lands. The BLM lands are managed as part of the D-E NCA, and the Forest Service lands are managed as part of the Uncompahgre National Forest. If the segment is added to the National System, the BLM would likely be responsible for its administration.

Existing Support or Opposition of Designation

Both the environmental coalition and the Gunnison Basin Stakeholder Group recommended that the BLM find this segment not suitable. Both recommendations felt the 1964 Wilderness Act combined with the instream flow allocation would protect the segment. As noted above, the D-E NCA Advisory Council recommended this segment be classified as not suitable and that the WSR values be protected using other administrative and legislative tools.

Determination of the Extent That Other Federal Agencies, the State, or its Political Subdivisions Might Participate in the Preservation and Administration of the River Should it be Proposed for Inclusion in the National System

The Forest Service evaluated Big Dominguez Creek for WSR eligibility and found the stream to be not eligible. Current Forest Service management direction for the WSR area will include “Wildlife habitat management in hardwood and shrub dominated draws and other areas of woody vegetation on rangelands. Semi-primitive nonmotorized, semi-primitive motorized and roaded natural recreation opportunities will be provided. Livestock grazing will be compatible with wildlife habitat management. Vegetation treatment will enhance plant and animal diversity” (USFS 1983).

Suitability Determination

The IDT determined that threats to the free-flowing nature and flow-dependent ORVs of this segment would be minimal due to the instream flow appropriation held by the CWCB for Big and Little Dominguez Creeks that protects all the annually available flow minus a minimal development allowance. Additionally, the free-flowing nature would be protected by the 1964 Wilderness Act. The Wilderness Act directs Federal land management agencies to manage wilderness in such a way that its undeveloped character is preserved. The IDT concluded that the combination of the instream flow appropriation and wilderness management would preclude the development of a dam on this segment.

Threats to cultural and historical ORVs for this segment are largely from unauthorized collection and vandalism by visitors to the D-E NCA. Cultural and historical ORVs are protected by a number of Federal laws, including the Antiquities Act of 1906, the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978, the Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1979, and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990. These laws would protect the cultural and historical ORVs along this segment.

The Wilderness Act also directs Federal land management agencies to protect outstanding opportunities for solitude or primitive and unconfined recreation, so the recreational ORV would be protected.

The wildlife ORV, which consists of breeding areas for the canyon tree frog, would be protected by the instream flow appropriation and the Wilderness Act, which directs Federal land management agencies to protect biological resources in wilderness.

Along with the protection provided by the Wilderness Act, the tentative classification of the segment (wild) and the scenic ORV would be administratively protected from incompatible development through the Visual Resource Management Class I classification proposed in the Preferred Alternative as part of the D-E NCA DRMP.

Suitability Finding: Not suitable; dropped from further Wild and Scenic study

Total Segment Length: 0.78 miles

Lower Terminus: Latitude, 38.825; longitude: 108.38 W

Upper Terminus - Latitude, 38.821 N; longitude, 108.378 W

Eligibility

Description: This segment begins at the confluence with Little Dominguez Creek and continues until the confluence with the Gunnison River near Bridgeport (BLM 2009; Figure O.7).

ORVs:

Wildlife: The area around the confluence of Big Dominguez Creek and Little Dominguez Creek is an important canyon tree frog breeding area with many breeding pools found in surveys of this area. The canyon tree frog is a BLM sensitive species and was identified as a species of greatest conservation need by the State of Colorado (CDOW 2006) (BLM 2009).

Cultural: The canyon bottoms of the Dominguez Canyon area have evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years. There are numerous high quality rock art sites that constitute one of the highest concentrations in the planning area. The known rock art sites cover a long period with some that date from over 2,000 years ago to Ute rock art panels from approximately 100 years ago (BLM 2009).

Scenic: Big Dominguez Creek runs through a large mesa dissected by deep red slickrock canyons. This has led to a magnificent contrast between the green vegetation characterizing the immediate areas next to the creek and the steep-walled canyon. This contrast is most spectacular in the segments of the creek running through exposed sections of incised, dark-colored Precambrian bedrock of the Uncompahgre Plateau that give way to softer benches covered with desert vegetation, before the sheer red sandstone cliffs. While hiking through the canyon, visitors are also exposed to many side canyons, alcoves, pinnacles, amphitheaters, and other unique sandstone formations. This unique and spectacular combination of features in conjunction with the WSA, now the Wilderness, allows visitors to experience an outstanding desert stream in a primitive, wild environment. The stream itself is characterized by a wealth of different features including meandering stretches, and steeper drops through unique rock features and waterfalls (BLM 2009).

Geological: Throughout the canyon the Great Unconformity, a large gap in rock ages where the Precambrian basement rock is overlaid by the much more recent Chinle formation, is readily accessible and apparent to visitors. The basement rocks of the Uncompahgre Plateau are extremely old and are rarely exposed elsewhere in the world. The forces of erosion that created this canyon have exposed over 600 million years of geologic history in addition to creating sandstone formations that make this area outstandingly remarkable (BLM 2009).

Tentative classification: Scenic

The tentative classification of this segment is scenic. There is evidence of grazing and an administrative route along this segment (BLM 2009).

Suitability Factor Assessment

Land Ownership and Land Uses

Land ownership within ¼ mile of the ordinary high water mark:

Current land uses on the BLM-administered lands include livestock grazing and trailing, hiking, and horseback riding.

Mineral and Energy Resource Activities

Through the legislation designating the D-E NCA, all Federal minerals were withdrawn from location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and operation under the mineral leasing, mineral materials, and geothermal leasing laws was ceased. Since there are no privately owned minerals and no active claims within the BLM portion of the WSR area, there would be no mineral or energy development activities.

Water Resource Development

The CWCB holds an instream appropriation for all the annual flows in Big and Little Dominguez Creeks minus a minimal development allowance. There are no proposals to develop impoundments within the WSR area.

Transportation, Facilities, and Other Developments

There is a trail/administrative two-track along Big Dominguez Creek. The trail is used for foot and horse recreational travel. The route is also used to trail livestock (cattle) from the Gunnison River to public land grazing allotments on BLM and National Forest lands. The trail/administrative two-track is also used by the holder of a life lease in the Little Dominguez Creek Segment 2 (see Little Dominguez Creek Segment 2 below). In addition to the trail/administrative two-track, there is a historic corral within the WSR area.

Recreational Activities

As mentioned above, the primary recreational activities within the WSR area include hiking and horseback riding.

Other Resource Activities

The other primary activity within the WSR area is livestock grazing. As mentioned above, cattle are trailed through the canyon.

Special Areas

Of the WSR area, 100% overlaps the D-E NCA and the Wilderness (139 acres).

Socioeconomic Environment

Big Dominguez Canyon is highly valued as a recreational resource. It attracts both local visitors and visitors from outside the area throughout the year. As mentioned above, the WSR area is part of a livestock grazing operation. The WSR area is primarily used for trailing cattle.

Current Administration and Funding Needs if Designated

Within the WSR area, the BLM is responsible for the current administration of public lands. The BLM lands are managed as part of the D-E NCA and the Wilderness. If the segment is added to the National System, the BLM would likely be responsible for its administration.

Existing Support or Opposition of Designation

Both the environmental coalition and the Gunnison Basin Stakeholder Group recommended that the BLM find this segment not suitable. Both recommendations resulted from the assumption that the Wilderness Act combined with the instream flow allocation would protect the segment. As noted above, the D-E NCA Advisory Council recommended this segment be classified as not suitable and that the WSR values be protected using other administrative and legislative tools.

Suitability Determination:

The IDT determined that threats to the free-flowing nature and flow-dependent ORVs of this segment would be minimal due to the instream flow appropriation held by the CWCB for Big and Little Dominguez Creeks that protects all the annually available flow minus a minimal development allowance. Additionally, the free-flowing nature would be protected by the 1964 Wilderness Act. The Wilderness Act directs Federal land management agencies to manage wilderness in such a way that the undeveloped character is preserved. The IDT concluded that the combination of the instream flow appropriation and wilderness management would preclude the development of a dam on this segment.

Threats to cultural and historical ORVs for this segment are largely from unauthorized collection and vandalism by visitors to the D-E NCA. Cultural and historical ORVs are protected by a number of Federal laws, including the Antiquities Act of 1906, the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978, the Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1979, and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990. These laws would protect the cultural and historical ORVs along this segment.

The wildlife ORV, which consists of breeding areas for the canyon tree frog, would be protected by the instream flow appropriation and the Wilderness Act, which directs Federal land management agencies to protect biological resources in wilderness.

Along with the protection provided by the Wilderness Act, the tentative classification of the segment (wild) and the scenic ORV would be administratively protected from incompatible development through the Visual Resource Management Class I classification proposed in the Preferred Alternative as part of the D-E NCA DRMP.

Suitability Finding: Not suitable; dropped from further Wild and Scenic study

Total Segment Length: 13.14 miles

Lower Terminus: Latitude, 38.795 N; longitude, 108.363 W

Upper Terminus: Latitude, 38.696 N; longitude, 108.49 W

Eligibility

Description: Little Dominguez Creek boundary with the Uncompahgre National Forest in the southern portion of the planning area to approximately two miles from the confluence with Big Dominguez Creek (Figure O.8).

ORVs:

Wildlife: The area around the confluence of Big Dominguez Creek and Little Dominguez Creek is an important canyon tree frog breeding area with many breeding pools found in surveys of this area. The canyon tree frog is a BLM sensitive species and was identified as a species of greatest conservation need by the State of Colorado (CDOW 2006).

Cultural: The canyon bottoms of the Dominguez Canyon area have evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years. There are numerous high quality rock art sites that constitute one of the highest concentrations in the planning area. The known rock art sites cover a long period with some that date from over 2,000 years ago to Ute rock art panels from approximately 100 years ago (BLM 2009).

Scenic: Big Dominguez Creek runs through a large mesa dissected by deep red slickrock canyons. This has led to a magnificent contrast between the green vegetation of the immediate areas next to the creek and the steep-walled canyon. This contrast is most spectacular in the segments of the creek running through the exposed sections of incised, dark-colored Precambrian bedrock of the Uncompahgre Plateau that give way to softer benches covered with desert vegetation, before the sheer red sandstone cliffs. While hiking through the canyon, visitors also encounter many side canyons, alcoves, pinnacles, amphitheaters, and other unique sandstone formations. This unique and spectacular combination of features in conjunction with the WSA, now the Wilderness, allows visitors to encounter an outstanding desert stream in a primitive, wild environment. The stream itself has a wealth of different features, including meandering stretches, steeper drops, unique rock features, and waterfalls (BLM 2009).

Geological: Throughout the canyon, the Great Unconformity, a large gap in the geologic strata, where the Precambrian basement rock is overlaid by the much more recent Chinle formation, is readily accessible and apparent to visitors. The basement rocks of the Uncompahgre Plateau are extremely old and are rarely exposed elsewhere in the world. The forces of erosion that created this canyon have exposed over 600 million years of geological history in addition to creating sandstone formations that make this area outstandingly remarkable (BLM 2009).

Tentative Classification: Wild

The tentative classification for this segment is wild. The segment is almost entirely contained within a WSA, now Wilderness, and has little to no evidence of modern human activity within the river corridor.

Suitability Factor Assessment

Land Ownership and Land Uses

Land ownership within ¼ mile of the ordinary high water mark:

Current land uses on the BLM-administered lands include livestock grazing and trailing, hiking, horseback riding, and backpacking. Current uses on the USFS-administered lands include livestock grazing, hiking, mountain biking, and backpacking.

Mineral and Energy Resource Activities

Through the legislation designating the D-E NCA, all Federal minerals were withdrawn from location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and operation under the mineral leasing, mineral materials, and geothermal leasing laws was ceased. Since there are no privately owned minerals and no active claims within the BLM portion of the WSR area, there would be no mineral or energy development activities. The small portion of the WSR area that is in the National Forest is available for coal, oil, and gas leasing. The potential for oil and gas development is classified as low (Fowler & Gallagher 2004). The potential for coal development is classified as “none” (USFS 2006).

Water Resource Development

The CWCB holds an instream appropriation for all the annual flows in Big and Little Dominguez Creeks minus a minimal development allowance. There are no proposals to develop impoundments within the WSR area.

Transportation, Facilities, and Other Developments

There is a trail along Little Dominguez Creek from the lower terminus upstream to approximately 5.8 miles. The trail is used for foot and horse recreational travel. The route is also used to trail livestock (cattle) from the Gunnison River to public land grazing allotments on BLM and National Forest lands.

Recreational Activities

As mentioned above, the primary recreational activities within the WSR area include hiking, horseback riding, and backpacking within the Wilderness.

Other Resource Activities

The other primary activity within the WSR area is livestock grazing. As mentioned above, cattle are trailed through the canyon between public land grazing allotments on both BLM and forest lands and the Gunnison River.

Special Areas

Of the WSR area, 99% overlaps the D-E NCA and the Wilderness (3,774 acres).

Socioeconomic Environment

Little Dominguez Canyon is highly valued as a recreational resource. It attracts both local visitors and visitors from outside the area throughout the year. As mentioned above, the WSR area is part of a livestock grazing operation. The WSR area is primarily used for trailing cattle.

Current Administration and Funding Needs if Designated

Within the WSR area, the BLM and the USFS are responsible for the current administration of public lands. The BLM lands are managed as part of the D-E NCA and the Forest Service lands are managed as part of the Uncompahgre National Forest. If the segment is added to the National System, the BLM would likely be responsible for its administration.

Existing Support or Opposition of Designation

Both the environmental coalition and the Gunnison Basin Stakeholder Group recommended that the BLM find this segment not suitable. Both recommendations result from the assumption that the Wilderness Act combined with the instream flow allocation would protect the segment. As noted above, the D-E NCA Advisory Council recommended this segment be classified as not suitable and that the WSR values be protected using other administrative and legislative tools.

Determination of the Extent That Other Federal Agencies, the State, or its Political Subdivisions Might Participate in the Preservation and Administration of the River Should it be Proposed for Inclusion in the National System

The Forest Service evaluated Big Dominguez Creek for WSR eligibility and found the stream to be not eligible. Current Forest Service management direction for the WSR area will include “Big game winter range in non-forest areas. Semi-primitive nonmotorized, semi-primitive motorized and roaded natural recreation opportunities will be provided. Motorized recreation on local roads is managed to prevent unacceptable stress on big game animals during primary big game use season. Vegetation treatment will enhance plant and animal diversity. Livestock grazing is compatible, but managed to favor wildlife habitat” (USFS 1983).

Suitability Determination

The IDT determined that threats to the free-flowing nature and flow-dependent ORVs of this segment would be minimal due to the instream flow appropriation held by the CWCB for Big and Little Dominguez Creeks that protects all the annually available flow minus a minimal development allowance. Additionally, the free-flowing nature would be protected by the 1964 Wilderness Act. The Wilderness Act directs Federal land management agencies to manage wilderness in a way such that the undeveloped character is preserved. The IDT concluded that the combination of the instream flow appropriation and wilderness management would preclude the development of a dam on this segment.

Threats to cultural and historical ORVs for this segment are largely from unauthorized collection and vandalism by visitors to the D-E NCA. Cultural and historical ORVs are protected by a number of Federal laws, including the Antiquities Act of 1906, the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978, the Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1979, and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990. These laws would protect the cultural and historical ORVs along this segment.

The wildlife ORV, which consists of breeding areas for the canyon tree frog, would be protected by the instream flow appropriation and the Wilderness Act, which directs Federal land management agencies to protect biological resources in wilderness.

Along with the protection provided by the Wilderness Act, the tentative classification of the segment (wild) and the scenic ORV would be administratively protected from incompatible development through the Visual Resource Management Class I classification proposed in the Preferred Alternative as part of the D-E NCA DRMP.

Suitability Finding: Not suitable; dropped from further Wild and Scenic study

Total Segment Length: 2.45 miles

Lower Terminus: Latitude, 38.818; longitude, 108.376 W

Upper Terminus: Latitude, 38.795 N; longitude, 108.363 W

Eligibility

Description: This segment begins approximately two miles above the confluence of Big and Little Dominguez Creeks and ends at the confluence of Big and Little Dominguez Creeks (Figure O.9).

ORVs:

Wildlife: The area around the confluence of Big Dominguez Creek and Little Dominguez Creek is an important canyon tree frog breeding area with many breeding pools found in surveys of this area. The canyon tree frog is a BLM sensitive species and was identified as a species of greatest conservation need by the State of Colorado (CDOW 2006).

Cultural: The canyon bottoms of the Dominguez Canyon area have evidence of human activity dating back thousands of years. There are numerous high quality rock art sites that constitute one of the highest concentrations in the planning area. The known rock art sites cover a long period, with some that date from over 2,000 years ago to Ute rock art panels from approximately 100 years ago (BLM 2009).

Scenic: Big Dominguez Creek runs through a large mesa dissected by deep red slickrock canyons. This has led to a magnificent contrast between the green vegetation of the immediate areas next to the creek and the steep-walled canyon. This contrast is most spectacular in the segments of the creek running through exposed sections of incised, dark-colored Precambrian bedrock of the Uncompahgre Plateau that give way to softer benches covered with desert vegetation, before the sheer red sandstone cliffs are encountered. While hiking through the canyon, visitors also encounter many side canyons, alcoves, pinnacles, amphitheaters, and other unique sandstone formations. This unique and spectacular combination of features in conjunction with the WSA, now the Wilderness, allows visitors to encounter an outstanding desert stream in a primitive, wild environment. The stream itself is characterized by a wealth of different features including meandering stretches and steeper drops through unique rock features and waterfalls (BLM 2009).

Geological: Throughout the canyon, the Great Unconformity, a large gap in the geological strata where the Precambrian basement rock is overlaid by the much more recent Chinle formation, is readily accessible and apparent to visitors. The basement rocks of the Uncompahgre Plateau are extremely old and are rarely exposed elsewhere in the world. The forces of erosion that created this canyon have exposed over 600 million years of geological history in addition to creating sandstone formations that make this area outstandingly remarkable (BLM 2009).

Tentative Classification: Scenic

The tentative classification of this segment is scenic. There is heavy evidence of grazing, a homestead, and an administrative route along this segment.

Suitability Factor Assessment

Land Ownership and Land Uses

Land ownership within ¼ mile of the ordinary high water mark:

Current land uses on the BLM-administered lands include livestock grazing and trailing, hiking, and horseback riding.

Mineral and Energy Resource Activities

Through the legislation designating the D-E NCA, all Federal minerals were withdrawn from location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and operation under the mineral leasing, mineral materials, and geothermal leasing laws was ceased. Since there are no privately owned minerals and no active claims within the BLM portion of the WSR area, there would be no mineral or energy development activities.

Water Resource Development

The CWCB holds an instream appropriation for all the annual flows in Big and Little Dominguez Creeks minus a minimal development allowance. There are no proposals to develop impoundments within the WSR area.

Transportation, Facilities, and Other Developments

There is a trail/administrative two-track along Little Dominguez Creek. The trail is used for foot and horse recreational travel. The trail is also used to trail livestock (cattle) from the Gunnison River to public land grazing allotments on BLM and National Forest Service lands. The trail/administrative two-track is also used by the holder of a life lease. The life lease is associated with a homestead that was deeded to the BLM in the late 1980s. As part of the property transfer, the BLM agreed to allow the landowner to continue living on the property through the remainder of his natural life. The homestead includes a cabin and outbuildings associated with a subsistence lifestyle.

Recreational Activities

As mentioned above, the primary recreational activities within the WSR area include hiking and horseback riding.

Other Resource Activities

The other primary activity within the WSR area is livestock grazing. As mentioned above, cattle are trailed through the canyon.

Special Areas

Of the WSR area, 100% overlaps the D-E NCA and the Wilderness. (139 acres)

Socioeconomic Environment

Little Dominguez Canyon is highly valued as a recreational resource. It attracts both local visitors and visitors from outside the area throughout the year. As mentioned above, the WSR area is part of a livestock grazing operation. The WSR area is primarily used for trailing cattle. The homestead in the segment provides a livelihood for the holder of the life lease.

Current Administration and Funding Needs if Designated

Within the WSR area, the BLM is responsible for the current administration of public lands. The BLM lands are managed as part of the D-E NCA and the Wilderness. If the segment is added to the National System, the BLM would likely be responsible for its administration.

Existing Support or Opposition of Designation

Both the environmental coalition and the Gunnison Basin Stakeholder Group recommended that the BLM find this segment not suitable. Both recommendations resulted from the assumption that the Wilderness Act combined with the instream flow allocation would protect the segment. As noted above, the D-E NCA Advisory Council recommended this segment be classified as not suitable and that the WSR values be protected using other administrative and legislative tools.

Suitability Determination

The IDT determined that threats to the free-flowing nature and flow-dependent ORVs of this segment would be minimal due to the instream flow appropriation held by the CWCB for Big and Little Dominguez Creeks that protects all the annually available flow minus a minimal development allowance. Additionally, the free-flowing nature would be protected by the 1964 Wilderness Act. The Wilderness Act directs Federal land management agencies to manage wilderness in a way such that the undeveloped character is preserved. The IDT concluded that the combination of the instream flow appropriation and wilderness management would preclude the development of a dam on this segment.

Threats to cultural and historical ORVs for this segment are largely from unauthorized collection and vandalism by visitors to the D-E NCA. Cultural and historical ORVs are protected by a number of Federal laws, including the Antiquities Act of 1906, the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978, the Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1979, and the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990. These laws would protect the cultural and historical ORVs along this segment.

The wildlife ORV, which consists of breeding areas for the canyon tree frog, would be protected by the instream flow appropriation and the Wilderness Act, which directs Federal land management agencies to protect biological resources in wilderness.

Along with the protection provided by the Wilderness Act, the tentative classification of the segment (wild) and the scenic ORV would be administratively protected from incompatible development through the Visual Resource Management Class I classification proposed in the Preferred Alternative as part of the D-E NCA DRMP.

Suitability Finding: Not suitable; dropped from further Wild and Scenic study

Total Segment Length: 4.1 miles

Lower Terminus: Latitude, 38.702; longitude, 108.439 W

Upper Terminus: Latitude, 38.668 N; longitude, 108.485 W

Eligibility

Description: This perennial tributary of Little Dominguez Creek drains from the east side of the Uncompahgre Plateau and is within the Wilderness (Figure O.10). The creek’s upper terminus is the confluence of Barkley Cabin Gulch and Corral Gulch, while the lower terminus is the Uncompahgre Field Office boundary. High flows primarily occur during the spring snowmelt and occasional summer rain events. A perennial base flow occurs throughout most of this segment, which originates from multiple groundwater discharge points at the contact between the Entrada and Chinle geological formations.

ORVs:

Scenic: An interdisciplinary BLM field inventory team evaluated the area and assigned a scenic quality classification of A. The following observations were derived from their field notes: Rose Creek possesses very high scenic qualities that are rare in the area of comparison. Prominent vertical and horizontal cliffs, interesting erosional features, major rock outcroppings, narrow chasms, and stepped ridgelines, together with dense and diverse vegetation, especially in the canyon bottoms, make Rose Creek a visually spectacular landscape. Rock formations, small waterfalls, alcoves, hanging gardens, and pools add significantly to the area’s visual character. Adjacent landforms provide rich color in contrasting shades of tan, pink, red, orange, brown, and blue. The surrounding vegetation contributes hues of green, gold, yellow, tan, and gray, completing the stunning scene (BLM 2009).

Tentative classification: Wild

There are no water diversions, impoundments, or developments of any kind along this remote segment. The entire shoreline is primitive and not accessible by road or trail.

Suitability Factor Assessment

Land Ownership and Land Uses

Land ownership within ¼ mile of the ordinary high water mark:

Current land uses on the BLM-administered lands include livestock grazing and trailing, and hiking.

Mineral and Energy Resource Activities

Through the legislation designating the D-E NCA, all Federal minerals were withdrawn from location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and operation under the mineral leasing, mineral materials, and geothermal leasing laws was ceased. Since there are no privately owned minerals and no active claims within the BLM portion of the WSR area, there would be no mineral or energy development activities. The small portion of the WSR area that is in the National Forest is available for coal, oil, and gas leasing. The potential for oil and gas development is classified as low. (Fowler & Gallagher 2004). The potential for coal development is classified as “none” (USFS 2006).

Water Resource Development

The CWCB holds an instream appropriation for all the annual flows in Big and Little Dominguez Creeks minus a minimal development allowance (Rose Creek is a tributary of Little Dominguez Creek). There are no proposals to develop impoundments within the WSR area.

Transportation, Facilities, and Other Developments

There are no trails or other developments within the WSR area.

Recreational Activities

As mentioned above, the primary recreational activity within the WSR area is hiking.

Other Resource Activities

The other primary activity within the WSR area is livestock grazing. There is limited livestock grazing on the benches above the canyon. There is little to no livestock use in the bottom of the canyon.

Special Areas

Of the WSR area, 96% is within the D-E NCA and the Wilderness (1,175 acres).

Socioeconomic Environment

Rose Creek provides wilderness recreational opportunities. Due to its remoteness, there are outstanding opportunities for both primitive recreation and solitude. As noted above, the WSR area has very little livestock use.

Current Administration and Funding Needs if Designated

Within the WSR area, the BLM and the USFS are responsible for the current administration of public lands. The BLM lands are managed as part of the D-E NCA, and the USFS lands are managed as part of the Uncompahgre National Forest. If the segment is added to the National System, the BLM would likely be responsible for its administration.

Existing Support or Opposition of Designation

The Gunnison Basin Stakeholder Group recommended that the BLM find this segment not suitable. They felt the Wilderness Act combined with the instream flow allocation would protect the segment. The environmental coalition recommended that the BLM determine the segment suitable. Their rationale was based on the assumption that the instream flow appropriation for Big and Little Dominguez Creeks did not include Rose Creek. Since Rose Creek is a tributary of Little Dominguez Creek, the instream flow appropriation would also protect flows in Rose Creek. As noted above, the D-E NCA Advisory Council recommendation for this segment included both a majority and minority recommendation. The majority recommendation was to find the segment not suitable and that the WSR values be protected using other administrative and legislative tools. The minority recommendation was to find the segment suitable but not recommend designation into the National System.

Determination of the Extent That Other Federal Agencies, the State, or its Political Subdivisions Might Participate in the Preservation and Administration of the River Should it be Proposed for Inclusion in the National System

The USFS evaluated Big Dominguez Creek for WSR eligibility and found the stream to be not eligible. Current Forest Service management direction for the WSR area will include “Wildlife management for one or more management indicator species. Semi-primitive nonmotorized, semi-primitive motorized, and roaded natural recreation opportunities will be provided. Livestock grazing will be compatible with wildlife habitat management. Vegetation treatment will enhance plant and animal diversity” (USFS 1983).

Suitability Determination

The IDT determined that threats to the free-flowing nature and flow-dependent ORVs of this segment would be minimal due to the instream flow appropriation held by the CWCB for Big and Little Dominguez Creeks that protects all the annually available flow minus a minimal development allowance. Additionally, the free-flowing nature would be protected by the 1964 Wilderness Act. The Wilderness Act directs Federal land management agencies to manage wilderness in a way such that the undeveloped character is preserved. The IDT concluded that the combination of the instream flow appropriation and wilderness management would preclude the development of a dam on this segment.

Along with the protection provided by the Wilderness Act, the tentative classification of the segment (wild) and the scenic ORV would be administratively protected from incompatible development through the Visual Resource Management Class I classification proposed in the Preferred Alternative as part of the D-E NCA DRMP.

Suitability Finding: Not suitable; dropped from further Wild and Scenic study

Total Segment Length: 8.45 miles

Lower Terminus: Latitude, 38.679; longitude, 108.313 W

Upper Terminus: Latitude, 38.609 N; longitude, 108.406 W

Eligibility

Description: Escalante Creek is a major perennial tributary of the lower Gunnison River that drains from the east side of the Uncompahgre Plateau. This segment of the creek lies within the D-E NCA. The upper terminus is its meeting with the Uncompahgre National Forest boundary, while the lower terminus is the boundary between BLM and State-managed lands (Figure O.11).

This stream supports both a trout fishery and native flannelmouth and bluehead suckers.

ORVs:

Scenic: An interdisciplinary BLM field inventory team evaluated the area and assigned a scenic quality classification of A. The following observations were derived from their field notes: Escalante Creek offers very high scenic qualities. The cascading white-water creek runs swiftly and linearly here, creating dramatic potholes and waterfalls. A large-scale sandstone canyon provides dramatic vistas, prominent vertical and horizontal cliffs, major rock outcroppings, and jagged ridgelines that dominate the landscape. Landform colors abound in shades of tan, pink, red, orange, brown and blue. The surrounding vegetation adds to the beauty, providing shades of green, golden, yellow, and tan, and the vegetation becomes increasingly dense along the creek.

This canyon has a scenic feature that is rare in the region of comparison: a “double canyon” system. The broader outer canyon bounded by colorful cliffs of sedimentary rock holds within it a smaller, narrow canyon of dark gray and black Precambrian metamorphic rock, within which the creek flows. This vivid contrast is only found in a handful of canyons on the Colorado Plateau (BLM 2010d).

Recreational: This segment has outstanding opportunities for recreation, primarily in the Escalante Potholes recreation site. Escalante Creek has smoothed and sculpted the Precambrian metamorphic rock through which it flows, creating a series of chutes, falls, and plunge pools. These features are rare. During the spring snowmelt, high water surges through the Potholes area, attracting extreme kayakers from all over the western United States. The complex hydraulic features challenge even the most experienced kayakers. Later in the season, as the snowmelt tapers off and the creek returns to a more sedate and steady flow, the potholes are used for wading, swimming, and streamside camping by groups and individuals, primarily from Colorado’s West Slope. Classic Colorado Plateau canyon scenery and the rare occurrence of black Precambrian schist in a perennially flowing streambed combine to make this section of Escalante Creek able to provide an exceptional recreational experience (BLM 2010d).

Geologic: The Escalante Potholes are a regionally rare geological and hydrological streambed feature in the lower reach of this segment. The potholes are hourglass-shaped erosional features occurring in hard Precambrian gneiss where it intercepts the streambed of Escalante Creek. Stream channel knickpoints have formed in the overlying softer sedimentary rock units, providing high velocity waters with adequate sediment supply and hydrologic energy to produce circulating erosive water currents. The scouring process that occurs primarily during the annual spring snowmelt has taken thousands of years to produce the current state of the potholes.

There are no other areas in the region where Precambrian gneiss is exposed and shaped by a stream powerful enough to create these features, yet not so powerful as to completely erode the stream channel smooth. This rare combination of lithology and erosion demonstrates not only the efficacy of hydrology upon geology, but also the creative sculpturing action that time and water have upon a very resistant medium. With almost any other medium, such as sandstone or even marble, these effects would not have produced such dramatic features as the potholes of Escalante Creek (BLM 2010d).

Wildlife: Escalante Canyon provides exceptionally high quality habitat for peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus) and is considered a regionally important area for this BLM sensitive species. In 1999, the peregrine was delisted from threatened status under the Endangered Species Act. The BLM monitors the status of peregrine populations to ensure continued recovery of the species. Peregrine falcons are closely associated with steep-walled canyons and often nest near perennial water sources that support prey populations such as waterfowl, songbirds, and shorebirds. Peregrine falcon pairs were observed in Escalante Canyon as recently as 2008 and 2009, and breeding/nesting activity has been confirmed along this segment (BLM 2010d).

Fish: Escalante Creek is regionally important habitat for resident populations of native roundtail chubs, bluehead suckers, and flannelmouth suckers, as well as serving as a spawning site for Gunnison River populations of all three of these BLM and Colorado sensitive species (see “Eligibility Adjustments” in this report).

Tentative classification: Scenic

An unpaved county road runs parallel to Escalante Creek for much of this reach but is primarily well above the stream along a bench and therefore not visible from the stream channel. The road crosses Escalante Creek near the upper terminus. Extensive recreational activity occurs in the Potholes area along this segment. There are water diversions as well, but no impoundments (BLM 2010d).

Suitability Factor Assessment

Land Ownership and Land Uses

Land ownership within ¼ mile of the ordinary high water mark:

Current land uses on the BLM-administered lands include livestock grazing, recreational boating (kayaking), swimming, rock climbing, picnicking, camping, and scenic touring. Current uses on the private lands include agriculture (livestock ranching). Current uses on the USFS-administered lands include livestock grazing and hunting.

Mineral and Energy Resource Activities

Through the legislation designating the D-E NCA, all Federal minerals were withdrawn from location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and operation under the mineral leasing, mineral materials, and geothermal leasing laws was ceased. The Federal mineral holdings cover 75% of the WSR area. The minerals below private lands would be available for development. Of the WSR area, 100% is classified as having low potential for oil and gas development. The is no known potential for developing coal resources. Potential for locatable mineral (primarily uranium) is classified as low. The small portion of the WSR area that is in the national forest is available for coal, oil, and gas leasing. The potential for oil and gas development is classified as low (Fowler & Gallagher 2004). The potential for coal development is classified as “none” (USFS 2006).

Water Resource Development

The CWCB holds an instream appropriation for 4.0 cubic feet per second (cfs) (3/1 to 3/31); 8.2 cfs (4/1 to 6/14); 4.0 cfs (6/15 to 7/31); 1.5 cfs (8/1 to 2/28). There are no known proposals to develop impoundments within the WSR area.

Transportation, Facilities, and Other Developments

There is a county gravel road adjacent to the creek (see map above). There is a BLM recreational facility that includes a vault toilet and picnic sites. There are ranch houses and outbuildings on the private lands. There are irrigated fields on the private lands and associated irrigation systems (generally ditches for flood irrigation).

Recreational Activities

As mentioned above, the primary recreational activities within the WSR area are kayaking, swimming, rock climbing, picnicking, camping, and scenic touring.

Other Resource Activities

The other primary activities within the WSR area are associated with ranching (livestock grazing and irrigated hay farming).

Special Areas

Of the WSR area, 71% is within the D-E NCA, and 4% overlaps the Wilderness and WSA (26 acres of Wilderness and 83 acres of WSA).

Socioeconomic Environment

Escalante Creek is valued for its scenic quality, historical resources, and recreational opportunities by residents of the communities in Delta, Montrose and Mesa Counties. As mentioned above, agricultural businesses (primarily ranching) rely on the stream for livestock water and irrigated crops.

Current Administration and Funding Needs if Designated

Within the WSR area, the BLM and the USFS are responsible for the current administration of public lands. The BLM lands are managed as part of the D-E NCA, and the Forest Service lands are managed as part of the Uncompahgre National Forest. If the segment is added to the National System, the BLM would likely be responsible for its administration.

Reasonably Foreseeable Potential Uses of the Land and Water That Would be Enhanced, Foreclosed, or Curtailed if the Area Were Included in the National System

Designation of this segment would enhance current recreational uses along the segment by providing long-term protection of flows and the scenic landscapes adjacent to the creek. Reasonably foreseeable development of private land includes residential housing and expansion of existing ranch developments. Designation could curtail or foreclose some or all of these private land development options.

Determination of the Extent That Other Federal Agencies, the State, or its Political Subdivisions Might Participate in the Preservation and Administration of the River Should it be Proposed for Inclusion in the National System

The Forest Service evaluated Escalante Creek for WSR eligibility and found the stream to be not eligible. Current Forest Service management direction for the WSR area will include “Wildlife management for one or more management indicator species. Semi-primitive nonmotorized, semi-primitive motorized, and roaded natural recreation opportunities will be provided. Livestock grazing will be compatible with wildlife habitat management. Vegetation treatment will enhance plant and animal diversity [and big] game winter range in non-forest areas. Semi-primitive nonmotorized, semi-primitive motorized and roaded natural recreation opportunities will be provided. Motorized recreation on local roads is managed to prevent unacceptable stress on big game animals during primary big game use season. Vegetation treatment will enhance plant and animal diversity. Livestock grazing is compatible, but managed to favor wildlife habitat.” (USFS 1983).

The private parcels within the WSR area that fall within Mesa County are zoned as an Agricultural, Forestry, Transitional District. The AFT zoning is primarily intended to accommodate agricultural operations and very low-density single-family residential development within the Rural Planning Area. The private parcels that fall within Montrose County are zoned to allow subdivision of land into parcels equal to or greater than 35 acres.

Existing Support or Opposition of Designation:

There is strong opposition from water users, private land owners and county governments to WSR designation for this segment. As noted above in the public participation section, the Gunnison Basin Stakeholder Group recommended a that the BLM find this segment not suitable. Many of the landowners along the segment participated in the stakeholder process and expressed concern that a WSR designation could impact their private property rights. They were concerned that a Federal reserve water right and potential scenic easements might remove their property from local control. There was general agreement among the stakeholders that the WSR values could best be protected through local management and authorities in the legislation that established the D-E NCA.

There is support from the environmental coalition for a WSR suitable determination. Its recommendation noted that the segment “boasts the highest diversity of ORVs of any in the NCA.” That said, the coalition’s recommendation to the BLM was only for a determination of suitability. The comments specifically stated that BLM should not send a recommendation to Congress for designation.

As noted above, the D-E NCA Advisory Council recommendation for this segment included both a majority and minority recommendation. The majority recommendation was to find the segment not suitable and that the WSR values be protected using other administrative and legislative tools. The minority recommendation was to find the segment suitable but not recommend designation into the National System.

Suitability Determination

The IDT determined that the D-E NCA legislation would provide protection from threats to the free-flowing nature of the creek. The Omnibus Act of 2009 directs the BLM to manage the area “in a manner that conserves, protects, and enhances” the purposes of the D-E NCA, including “the water resources of the area streams, based on seasonally available flows that are necessary to support aquatic, riparian, and terrestrial species and communities.” The IDT concluded that the mandate in the legislation would preclude Federal approval of an impoundment dam along the segment.

The recreational ORV associated with swimming and wading is currently protected by senior water rights associated with irrigation downstream of the eligible segment and instream flow water rights held by CWCB. Adequate flows for the recreational ORV of kayaking are associated with spring snowmelt, and their protection is less certain. Additional storage on private lands above the segment could effect the kayaking ORV.

The senior irrigation water rights below the segment and the instream flow water rights would also provide protection for the wildlife and fish ORVs. Maintaining flows through the irrigation season would support habitat for peregrine falcon prey. The instream flow appropriation is allocated specifically for protection of sensitive fish.

The Escalante ACEC proposed in the Preferred Alternative as part of the D-E NCA DRMP would provide additional administrative protection for the segment’s fish and wildlife ORVs. The relevant and important values identified for protection in the ACEC are the same as the Wild and Scenic River ORVs, providing an alternative method of protecting these values.

The tentative classification of the segment (scenic) and the scenic ORV would be administratively protected from incompatible development on BLM-administered lands through the Visual Resource Management Class I and II objectives proposed in the Preferred Alternative as part of the D-E NCA DRMP.

Suitability Finding: Not suitable; dropped from further Wild and Scenic study

Total Segment Length: 8.48 miles

Lower Terminus: Latitude, 38.753; longitude, 108.261 W

Upper Terminus: Latitude, 38.679 N; longitude, 108.313 W

Eligibility

Description: Escalante Creek is a major perennial tributary of the Gunnison River, draining from the east side of the Uncompahgre Plateau. High flows typically occur during spring snowmelt, as well as from runoff generated by occasional summer thunderstorms. This segment is located within the D-E NCA. The upper terminus is the boundary between BLM- and State-managed lands, while the lower terminus is the confluence of Escalante Creek and the Gunnison River Figure O.12).

ORVs:

Fish: Escalante Creek is regionally important habitat for resident populations of native roundtail chubs, bluehead suckers, and flannelmouth suckers, as well as serving as a spawning site for Gunnison River populations of all three of these BLM and Colorado sensitive species (see “Eligibility Adjustments” in this report).

Wildlife: This section of Escalante Creek is regionally important habitat for desert bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis), primarily due to the presence of a water source.

Escalante Canyon provides exceptionally high quality habitat for peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus), and is considered a regionally important area for this BLM sensitive species. In 1999, the peregrine was delisted from threatened status under the Endangered Species Act. The BLM monitors the status of peregrine populations to ensure continued recovery of the species. Peregrine falcons are closely associated with steep-walled canyons and often nest near perennial water sources that support prey populations such as waterfowl, songbirds, and shorebirds. Peregrine falcon pairs were observed in Escalante Canyon as recently as 2008 and 2009, and breeding/nesting activity has been confirmed along this segment (BLM 2010d).

Tentative Classification: Recreational

An unpaved county road runs along portions of this stream segment and crosses Escalante Creek via a bridge near the mouth. A low water ford across Escalante Creek provides road access to the Dry Fork of Escalante Creek area. There are several water diversions along this reach, primarily for irrigating agricultural lands along the river corridor.

Suitability Factor Assessment

Land Ownership and Land Uses

Land ownership within ¼ mile of the ordinary high water mark:

Current land uses on the BLM-administered lands include livestock grazing, hiking, rock climbing, and scenic touring. Current uses on the private lands include agriculture (livestock ranching and farming). Current uses on the Colorado State-administered lands include livestock grazing and hunting.

Mineral and Energy Resource Activities

Through the legislation designating the D-E NCA, all Federal minerals were withdrawn from location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and operation of the mineral leasing, mineral materials, and geothermal leasing laws. The Federal mineral holdings cover 37% of the WSR area. As such the minerals below private and State lands would be available for development. Of the WSR area, 55% is classified as having low potential, and 45% is classified as having medium potential for oil and gas development (Fowler & Gallagher 2004). There is no known potential for developing coal resources. The potential for locatable mineral (primarily uranium) development is classified as low (USFS 2006).

Water Resource Development

There are no known proposals to develop impoundments within the WSR area.

Transportation, Facilities, and Other Developments

There is a county gravel road adjacent to the creek (see map above). There are ranch houses and outbuildings on the private lands. There are irrigated fields on the private lands, and associated irrigation systems (generally ditches for flood irrigation).

Recreational Activities

As mentioned above, the primary recreational activities within the WSR area are hiking, rock climbing, and scenic touring.

Other Resource Activities

The other primary activities within the WSR area are associated with agriculture (livestock grazing and irrigated farming).

Special Areas

Of the WSR area, 37% is within the D-E NCA, and 13% overlaps the Wilderness and WSA (261 acres of Wilderness and 46 acres of WSA).

Socioeconomic Environment

Escalante Creek is valued for its scenic quality, historical resources, and recreational opportunities by residents of the communities in Delta, Montrose and Mesa counties. As mentioned above, agricultural businesses (primarily ranching) rely on the stream for livestock water and irrigated crops.

Current Administration and Funding Needs if Designated

Within the WSR area, the BLM is responsible for the current administration of public lands. The BLM lands are managed as part of the D-E NCA. If the segment is added to the National System, the BLM would likely be responsible for its administration.

Reasonably Foreseeable Potential Uses of the Land and Water That Would be Enhanced, Foreclosed, or Curtailed if the Area Were Included in the National System

Designation of this segment would enhance current recreational uses along the segment by providing long-term protection of flows and the scenic landscapes adjacent to the creek. Reasonably foreseeable development of private land includes residential housing and expansion of existing agricultural developments. Designation could curtail or foreclose some or all of these private land development options.

Determination of the Extent That Other Federal Agencies, the State, or its Political Subdivisions Might Participate in the Preservation and Administration of the River Should it be Proposed for Inclusion in the National System

The private parcels within the WSR area fall within Delta County. Unless a subdivision is included, no permits are required for single-family residential housing construction. Records show six unique parcels of private land within the WSR area.

Existing Support or Opposition of Designation

There is strong opposition from water users, private land owners, and county government to WSR designation for this segment. As noted above in the public participation section, the Gunnison Basin Stakeholder Group recommended that the BLM find this segment not suitable. Many of the landowners along the segment participated in the stakeholder process and expressed concern that a WSR designation could impact their private property rights. They were concerned that a Federal reserve water right and potential scenic easements might remove their property from local control. There was general agreement among the stakeholders that the WSR values could best be protected through local management and authorities in the legislation that established the D-E NCA.

The environmental coalition also recommended that BLM find this segment not suitable.

As noted above, the D-E NCA Advisory Council recommended this segment be classified as not suitable and that the WSR values be protected using other administrative and legislative tools.

Suitability Determination

The IDT determined that the D-E NCA legislation would provide protection from threats to the free-flowing nature of the creek. The Omnibus Act of 2009 directs the BLM to manage the area “in a manner that conserves, protects, and enhances” the purposes of the D-E NCA including “the water resources of the area streams, based on seasonally available flows that are necessary to support aquatic, riparian, and terrestrial species and communities.” The IDT concluded that the mandate in the legislation would preclude Federal approval of an impoundment dam along the segment.

The senior irrigation water rights below the segment would provide some protection for the wildlife ORVs. Maintaining flows through the irrigation season would support habitat for peregrine falcon prey. Instream flow water rights held on Escalante Creek Segment 1 by the CWCB would provide some protection for the fish ORV.

The Escalante ACEC proposed in the Preferred Alternative as part of the D-E NCA DRMP would provide additional administrative protection for the segment’s fish and wildlife ORVs. The relevant and important values identified for protection in the ACEC are the same as the Wild and Scenic River ORVs, thus providing alternative protections for these values.

The tentative classification of the segment (recreational) means that the segment would be administratively protected from incompatible development on BLM-administered lands through the Visual Resource Management Class I and II objectives proposed in the Preferred Alternative as part of the D-E NCA DRMP.

Suitability Finding: Not suitable; dropped from further Wild and Scenic study

Total Segment Length: 18.27 miles

Lower Terminus: Latitude, 38.696; longitude, 108.177 W

Upper Terminus: Latitude, 38.531 N; longitude, 108.343 W

Eligibility

Description: Cottonwood Creek is a tributary of Roubideau Creek that drains from the east side of the Uncompahgre Plateau. This segment is located within the D-E NCA. Its upper terminus is the BLM boundary with the Uncompahgre National Forest, while the lower terminus is at the lower extent of BLM-administered lands, approximately 2.5 miles above the Roubideau Creek confluence (Figure O.13). The flow regime of Cottonwood Creek is typically perennial in average to above-average water years but can become intermittent in lower reaches during dry years. High flows occur during the spring snowmelt and from runoff generated by summer thunderstorms, especially in the lower reaches (BLM 2010d).

ORVs:

Vegetation: The entire length of this segment supports a superior (A-ranked) occurrence of globally vulnerable (G3) narrowleaf cottonwood/skunkbush sumac riparian woodland (Populus angustifolia/Rhus trilobata). The CNHP includes this segment within the Cottonwood Creek Potential Conservation Area (BLM 2010d).

Tentative Classification: Scenic

One unpaved road crosses Cottonwood Creek approximately one-half mile downstream of the upper terminus. There are no absolute water right diversions or impoundments along this stretch and little evidence of human activity. The shoreline is primitive.

Suitability

The IDT determined that a portion of the eligible stream and WSR area are suitable for inclusion in the National System (see map in Figure O.14 below). The following suitability information relates to that portion which the IDT determined is suitable.

Total Segment Length: 14.41 miles

Lower Terminus: Latitude, 38.693; longitude, 108.18 W

Upper Terminus: Latitude, 38.57 N; longitude, 108.296 W

Land Ownership and Land Uses

Land ownership within ¼ mile of the ordinary high water mark:

Current land uses on the BLM-administered lands include livestock grazing and hiking.

Suitability Factor Assessment

Mineral and Energy Resource Activities

Through the legislation designating the D-E NCA, all Federal minerals were withdrawn from location, entry, and patent under the mining laws; and operation under the mineral leasing, mineral materials, and geothermal leasing laws was ceased. Within the WSR area, there are no valid existing mineral rights.

Water Resource Development

The CWCB holds an instream appropriation for 3.6 cfs during April, May, and part of June. The purpose of the water right is to protect fish habitat. There are no known proposals to develop impoundments within the WSR area.

Transportation, Facilities, and Other Developments

There are five primitive routes/trails within the WSR area. Only three of the routes reach the bottom of the canyon near the creek. There are three livestock/hiking trails that descend from the rim to the bottom of the canyon. There are two known livestock fences that cross the creek. No other developments were noted during the eligibility inventory.

Recreational Activities

As mentioned above, the primary recreational activity within the WSR area is hiking.

Other Resource Activities

The other primary activity within the WSR area is livestock grazing.

Special Areas

Of the WSR area, 100% is within the D-E NCA.

Socioeconomic Environment

Escalante Creek is valued for its scenic quality and primitive recreational opportunities. Parts of three livestock grazing allotments are within the WSR area.

Current Administration and Funding Needs if Designated

Within the WSR area, the BLM is responsible for the current administration of public lands. The BLM lands are managed as part of the D-E NCA. If the segment is added to the National System, the BLM would likely be responsible for its administration.

Reasonably Foreseeable Potential Uses of the Land and Water That Would be Enhanced, Foreclosed, or Curtailed if the Area Were Included in the National System

Designation of this segment would enhance current recreational uses along the segment by providing long-term protection of flows and the scenic landscapes adjacent to the creek. Livestock grazing would likely continue if the segment were designated. If either recreation or livestock grazing activities resulted in damage to the riparian vegetation, those activities could be curtailed to protect the ORV. Since the WSR area is limited to BLM-administered lands, there would be no need for scenic easements or other property acquisitions.

Determination of the Extent That Other Federal Agencies, the State, or its Political Subdivisions Might Participate in the Preservation and Administration of the River Should it be Proposed for Inclusion in the National System

The vegetation ORV would require protection of adequate instream flows. Within the reach, the CWCB currently holds instream flow appropriations for protection of fish. The CWCB has demonstrated a willingness to secure instream flow appropriations to protect flow-dependent biological resources.

Existing Support or Opposition of Designation

The Gunnison Basin Stakeholder Group recommended that the BLM find this segment not suitable. They concluded that the Wilderness Act combined with the instream flow allocation would protect the segment. The environmental coalition recommended that the BLM determine the segment suitable. As noted above, the D-E NCA Advisory Council recommendation for this segment included both a majority and a minority recommendation. The majority recommendation was to find the segment not suitable and that the WSR values be protected using other administrative and legislative tools. The minority recommendation was to find the segment suitable but not recommend designation into the National System. There was one member of the Advisory Council that specifically recommended Cottonwood Creek as suitable for inclusion in the National System.

Suitability Determination

The IDT determined that the D-E NCA legislation would provide protection from threats to the free-flowing nature of the creek. The Omnibus Act of 2009 directs the BLM to manage the area “in a manner that conserves, protects, and enhances” the purposes of the D-E NCA including “the water resources of the area streams, based on seasonally available flows that are necessary to support aquatic, riparian, and terrestrial species and communities.” The IDT concluded that the mandate in the legislation would preclude Federal approval of an impoundment dam along the segment.

The primary consideration for the determination of suitable was the need for additional protection of the vegetation ORV from actions that would reduce flows along this segment. The IDT determined that a Federal reserve water right would provide protection for the vegetation ORV. The current instream flow appropriation held by CWCB does not create the type of seasonal flow variation necessary to protect the vegetation type identified as the ORV. The narrowleaf cottonwood/skunkbush sumac riparian woodland requires high, flooding spring flows in the spring and minimal flows throughout the remainder of the growing season.

Due to the difference between the eligible boundary and the suitable boundary, the tentative classification for this creek has changed from scenic to wild. The smaller suitable area does not include the road identified in the eligibility report.

Suitability Finding: Suitable; recommended for inclusion in the National System.