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

20120723-4002 FERC PDF (Unofficial) 07/23/2012
Section 4.2 of the HPMP discusses the four eligible sites located within or near
project recreation facilities. The fourth bullet in this section states “that the Hell Hole
reservoir bisects site FS-05-03-55-201.” We assume that this statement was intended to
state that the Hell Hole reservoir trail bisects the site, and should be clarified in HPMP
revisions.
Prior to license issuance, the Commission intends to execute a final PA with the
California SHPO that would require PCWA to implement a revised HPMP for the
project. Execution of the PA and implementation of the HPMP would ensure that
adverse effects of the project on cultural resources would be appropriately resolved under
section 106.
3.3.7 Aesthetic Resources
3.3.7.1 Affected Environment
The landscape of the Middle Fork American River watershed is rural and
characterized by steep canyons and rugged terrain with dense forests and woodlands.
Aesthetic resources include alpine lakes, rivers, streams, forested areas, wilderness areas,
rivers, scenic forest routes, hiking trails, developed campgrounds, vista points, picnic
areas, boat ramps, and special interest areas.
Lands affected by the project are managed under the Forest Service Visual
Management System (VMS). This system establishes three levels of sensitivity: Level 1
for primary travel routes and recreation use areas, where visitors are anticipated to have a
high concern for the visual quality; and Levels 2 and 3 for areas that are not heavily used
and where users have a moderate or low concern for visual quality. The Forest Service
manages Sensitivity Levels 1 or 2 viewsheds for visual quality. PCWA identified 37
Forest Service managed viewsheds in the vicinity of the project and compiled and
documented VMS inventory information. PCWA also determined the existing visual
condition (EVC) of project facilities as seen in the landscape from Forest Servicemanaged
viewsheds. Based on EVC ratings range from I (ecological changes only), to V
(landscape changes are strong and obvious) most facilities have an EVC of II (changes
are not visually evident unless pointed out) to III (changes are noticed but do not attract
attention and appear as minor disturbances) and a few facilities have EVCs of I and IV
(changes may attract some attention but disturbances resemble natural patterns).
Management areas described in this section refer to applicable Visual Quality Objectives
(VQO):
• Retention—Management activities are allowed, but not evident.
• Partial retention—Management activities may be evident, but not dominate the
landscape.
• Modification—Management activities may dominate, should appear natural.
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