Alternatives A, B, and D would be the most effective for protecting the values of concern in the Sheep Mountain Anticline area because they would restrict locatable mineral development and prohibit surface-disturbing activities above caves and cave passages. Restrictions that limit surface disturbance, particularly under Alternative D, would reduce the potential for the disturbance of cultural resources and adverse impacts to the geology and associated scenic qualities of the area. However, these alternatives also would result in the greatest restrictions to mineral development and other surface-disturbing activities, particularly alternatives B and D, which, respectively, either make the ACEC administratively unavailable to mineral leasing or impose NSO/CSU stipulations. Alternative C would be least effective for protecting the values of concern, but would be more beneficial for mineral development and other activities that result in surface disturbance.