Draft EIS_072312.pdf - Middle Fork American River Project ...

20120723-4002 FERC PDF (Unofficial) 07/23/2012
additional raft slide, and providing a changing pavilion and additional restroom, as
proposed by PCWA and specified in the Alternative 1 Recreation Plan, would
accommodate this project-related recreation use. The signage provisions that are
specified in the Alternative 1 plan would be appropriate measures to include at Indian Bar
because the signs would foster proper visitor use at the site and enable regulation by
appropriate law enforcement entities. Formalizing a boat launch at Ralston afterbay, as
proposed by PCWA and specified in the Alternative 1 Recreation Plan, would meet an
existing need for trailered boating access to the reservoir. The Alternative 1 plan
measure to include stabilization of the surface of the ramp in the design of this boat
launch, would also minimize erosion.
Although the Forest Service attributes the need for providing a parking area and
restroom at Ellicott Bridge to the project, this area is more than 8 miles downstream of
Hell Hole reservoir. There is no information indicating that there is insufficient parking
or a need for a restroom for opportunistic white water boaters that may begin whitewater
runs at this location primarily in the spring or anglers that may use this reach of the
Rubicon River during the spring, summer, and fall. Consequently, providing this access
development would not accommodate or enhance project-related recreation use, and it
would not address any project-related issue.
Water System Developments
PCWA identifies four water systems included in the project and proposes to drill
new wells and install appurtenant system features at Middle Meadows and Big Meadows
(including possibly Hell Hole Campground). The Alternative 1 Recreation Plan specifies
that PCWA would develop a new water system at Ahart Campground, provide a reliable
and adequate potable water source and delivery system for Hell Hole Campground,
replace all infrastructure of the French Meadows North and South shore water supply
systems, and provide potable water at Hell Hole boat ramp. Whereas the PCWA
Recreation Plan states PCWA recurrent heavy maintenance responsibilities include
replacing potable water sources, the Alternative 1 plan does not specify that PCWA
would have this continuing responsibility during the term of a new license.
Our Analysis
Relicensing studies and Forest Service comments indicate the existing water
systems frequently fail, have insufficient capacity, and need improvements to improve
reliability and restore functionality. Providing potable water at recreation sites at French
Meadows reservoir is consistent with recreation facilities that are developed in areas with
rural and roaded natural ROS designations. Hell Hole reservoir has a semi-primitive
motorized ROS classification and providing potable water at recreation developments
would be consistent with the general management direction of providing a range of
recreation opportunities and experiences. Water systems are integral to the recreation
sites they serve; however, the French Meadows North shore water supply system also
provides water to a Forest Service administrative site (non-project facility).
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