Unavoidable adverse effects are those environmental consequences of an action that cannot be avoided, either because modifying the action would change the nature of the project or effective mitigation through project design is not feasible. Pursuant to NEPA Sec. 102 [42 USC § 4332] (2)(C)(ii), this analysis must identify those alternative actions that would result in unavoidable adverse effects.

The action alternatives would result in adverse effects that are unavoidable. The construction and permanent development of new buildings, paved walkways, or other site features would result in the unavoidable loss of approximately 4 acres of native vegetation and wildlife habitat. The Proposed Action would, however, restore approximately 5 acres of existing disturbed areas. Although this represents a significant offset of the project’s permanent footprint impacts, it would not entirely make up for the loss of existing habitat features such as ground nests or burrows existing at the time of construction.

Additionally, the Proposed Action alternative would result in the modification of historic structures. Although these modifications are intended to benefit the structures in the long-term, the modifications would cause some unavoidable adverse effects (e.g., widening of a door in the ranch house.)

Other unavoidable effects would be the increased interaction between wildlife and ranch visitors. Although this is anticipated to be minor, it would be long-term and unavoidable.