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Chapter 3. Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences

3.1 Introduction

This chapter describes the affected environment and assesses the environmental
consequences of the four alternatives presented in Chapter 2. For each resource area, the
analysis is broken into two main subsections – affected environment and effects of project
components. The affected environment subsections describe the current conditions of the
resource, against which the anticipated direct and indirect environmental effects of the
alternatives are evaluated. Then, for each resource, the next subsection discusses the effects
of the project. Unavoidable adverse impacts and irreversible and irretrievable resource
commitments are summarized. Cumulative effects are presented at the end of this chapter.
The specific order of the sections is as follows:

Geology

Soils

Water Resources

Fisheries

Vegetation

Wetlands

Biodiversity and Wildlife

Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Species

Scenery

Cultural Resources

Subsistence

Wilderness

Socioeconomics

Transportation

Unavoidable Adverse Impacts and Irreversible and Irretrievable Resource
Commitments

Cumulative Effects

3.2 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES - GEOLOGY

This section discusses land types and geology in the Angoon Hydroelectric Project area, as
well as the potential effects associated with the alternatives. The information in this section
was drawn from the karst and cave resource report prepared for this project. This report is on
file at the Admiralty Island National Monument office.

3.2.1 Affected Environment—Land Types and Geology

Watersheds are defined as the area that contributes surface and subsurface water to a single
point. Key Thayer Creek watershed components include stream channels, groundwater,
riparian areas, wetlands, lakes, hillslopes, and soils. These components transport, filter, and
store water and sediment. This section discusses project features that influence hillslope
stability, soil erosion, and karst features.

The project area spans three ecological subsections -- Hood-Gambier Carbonates, Mitchell-
Hasselborg Lowlands, and Thayer Lake Granitics. The names of these ecological subsections
are indicative of project area geology.

Hood-Gambier Carbonates (HGC)

Most of the project facilities lie in this ecological subsection. Because of fractures in the
underlying carbonates (limestones and marbles), high annual precipitation, and peat lands
adjacent to the carbonate bedrock, karst has developed to varying extents. Generally, glacial
deposits cover the carbonate rock at lower elevations.

The land types associations found in this ecological subsection are hills and lowlands. The
hills have gently sloping terrain with relief less than 2,000 feet with no alpine vegetation on
the summits. Most of the soils are derived from glacial till, are well-drained, and support
productive forest cover types. Sedge fens and forested wetlands are the most common
wetlands.

Lowlands are gentle, glacial topography with a higher percentage of wetland. Mineral soils
are derived from glacial till and somewhat poorly drained. Wetlands types are bogs, poor
fens, or forested wetlands.

The Mitchell-Hasselborg Lowlands (MHL)

Glaciers eroded the dominantly quartz arenite tertiary sediments of the Kootznahoo
formation and the older basalts and cherts of the Devonian/Silurian volcanics to form this
ecological subsection. The process of glaciation has a stronger effect on the development of
this ecological subsection than the underlying geology.

The land types associations found in this ecological subsection are hills and lowlands.
Vertical relief is the only difference between the two land types. All mineral soils are derived
from glacial till with thick, organic horizons. Mineral soils are well-drained and support highly productive forest cover. Organic soils are very thick, and support forested and bog
wetlands.

Thayer Lake Granitics

This ecological subsection consists of glacially scoured granitic bedrock made up of quartz
monzonite and quartz diorite from the cretaceous period, with low relief and gentle slopes.

The land type association is primarily lowland, typified by glacial till slopes and plains.
Mineral soils are ‘poorly drained’ to ‘somewhat poorly drained’. They support low
productivity, mixed conifer forest. Organic soils are ‘poorly drained’ to ‘very poorly
drained’. Bogs and poor fens are the wetlands that develop in this ecological subsection and
land type association. These types of wetlands are common in Southeast Alaska.

3.2.1.1 Affected Environment - Karst Geology

and marble. As the rock dissolves, underground drainage systems develop that can be
expressed as surface features. Examples of these features include: streams that sink below
ground (losing streams), depressions, sinkholes, collapsed channels, and caves.

According to current USGS geologic mapping, dark gray to white, medium to thick-bedded
marble and calcareous phyllite of the Gambier Bay Formation underlies much of the project
area. Geologic inventory within the project area confirmed the presence of marble underlying
portions of the proposed access road alignment. The dam site is underlain by granite, not
interbedded marble and calcareous phyllite as previously mapped; this makes a much better
foundation for the dam. Cliffs exposed along the beach south of Thayer Creek consist of dark
gray to white marble. Glacial till and glacial marine sediments overlie much of the bedrock in
the area. These conditions may have created the surface flow drainage networks that led to
the development of the karst systems.

In the northern third of the project area, Section 2, T. 50 S., R. 67 E., karst systems have
developed where surface drainages flow to one of the marble beds striking roughly parallel to
the shore. Twenty-five karst features were inventoried including sinkholes, losing streams,
resurgences, and one cave. The streams appear to sink along the eastern side of the marble
band, flow along the strike, and resurge at either end of the band. These features are
considered high vulnerability karst. The areas adjacent to the proposed access road north of
Thayer Creek to the diversion dam and the transmission line corridor were inventoried and
no additional karst resources noted.

3.2.2 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS ON LANDTYPES AND
GEOLOGY

3.2.2.1 Effects – Karst Geology
ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

There would be no change to the existing condition because no new activities would occur.

ALTERNATIVE 2 (PROPOSED ACTION)

Approximately 0.2 miles of the access road between the marine facilities and powerhouse
would be constructed across high vulnerability karst lands. The proposed alignment is
slightly up slope and proximal to the karst systems identified, crossing the streams which
sink into those systems. The sediment and debris generated as a result of the road
construction would enter the karst systems via the streams which flow into them, eventually
delivering sediment to the streams that the karst systems contribute to. An amendment to the
Forest Plan would be needed to construct the access road across the inventoried high
vulnerability karst areas.

ALTERNATIVES 3 AND 4

As described in Chapter 2, a no-disturbance buffer with a minimum width of 100 feet is
required around karst features and the streams that flow to them (2008 Forest Plan pp 4-24
to 4-25, II Management, H, 1 (Road Construction) (a-d), 3 (Karst Feature Buffers) (a-f.)).
The access road between the marine facilities and powerhouse would be routed around these
buffers to limit sediment and debris associated with road construction from entering the karst
system via the sinking streams. With the total avoidance of these karst features and the small
streams which flow into them no effects to the karst systems is anticipated.

3.3 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES - SOILS

This section discusses soil productivity, surface erosion, and mass wasting in the Angoon
Hydroelectric Project area, as well as potential effects associated with the alternatives. The
information in this section was drawn from the soils and wetlands report. This report is on
file at the Admiralty Island National Monument office. The effects analysis area for soil
resources are the watersheds in which development is proposed. Watersheds are used as the
analysis area because erosion processes and specific erosion events are contained within
them.

3.3.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT—SOILS

3.3.1.1 Affected Environment - Soil Productivity

Soil productivity is the capacity of soil to support plant growth based on the chemical,
physical, and biological properties of the soil. Virtually all soils in the project area have an
intact, organic mat that prevents detrimental erosion or keeps it at a low level. However, a
few existing landslides contribute to erosion and are discussed in the Mass Wasting Section.
There is no existing human-induced detrimental erosion within the wilderness portion of the
project area.

3.3.1.2 Affected Environment - Surface Erosion

Surface erosion is not pervasive in the project area. Virtually all soils in the project area have
an intact, organic mat that prevents surface erosion or keeps it at a low level. However, a
few existing landslides contribute to surface erosion and are discussed in the Mass Wasting
Section. There is no existing human-induced surface erosion within the wilderness portion of
the project area

3.3.1.3 Affected Environment - Landslides (Mass Wasting)

No landslides exist within the proposed road corridor and project footprint, but they do exist
within the affected watersheds (see Water Section page 3.4.1.2, discussion about Reach C).
Slopes over 67%, a major concern related to landslides when building roads, exist in the
project area, particularly between the proposed power plant site and the diversion dam (see
Road Card Maps, Appendix B). The road corridor for Alternatives 3 and 4 between the
power plant and the diversion dam contains approximately 150 feet of slopes greater than
67% along a 700 foot segment of the proposed alignment, while Alternative 2, contains over
300 feet. The road corridor between the marine facilities and the power plant, for all action
alternatives, is entirely on slopes less than 67%. From the marine facilities to Kootznahoo
Inlet, the transmission line and access road for Alternatives 2 and 3 cross two areas with
slopes greater than 67%, including approximately a 350 foot segment and a 1,000-foot
segment along the initial 5,000 feet of the alignment.

3.3.2 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS ON SOILS

3.3.2.1 Effects - Soil Productivity

Removal of the organic surface exposes the soil to erosion and loss of the organic rooting
substrate. Keeping the surface horizon intact is vital to maintain soil productivity.
Regional Soil Quality Standards require a “minimum of 85 percent of an area be left in a
condition of acceptable productivity potential for trees and other managed vegetation
following land management activities.” Although road construction and rock pit development
remove forest soils for plant growth, classified roads are considered part of the transportation
system not the productive soil base. Consequently, classified roads, the rock pits needed to
support them, and project facility sites are not considered detrimental disturbance from a soil
productivity perspective (Forest Service Manual 2554.03).

The only remaining effect on soil productivity and detrimental disturbance is landslides (see
Landslides Section and Table 3-1).

ALTERNATIVE 1
Soil productivity would be controlled by natural processes in the project area.

ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, AND 4

Soil productivity could potentially be impacted by human-induced landslides (see Mass
Wasting section). Nevertheless, all alternatives would meet Regional Soil Quality Standards
since landslides would be well below the 15% threshold.

3.3.2.2 Effects – Surface Erosion

Road construction would expose surfaces to erosion. All roads contribute to erosion effects.
Landslides, both human-induced and naturally occurring, expose surfaces to erosion.
Sediment can be delivered to streams at road crossings. Short-term effects are associated
with road construction activity. The erosion of road surfaces and cut-and fill-slopes produces
long-term effects. Road cuts can intercept the shallow subsurface flow along a hillside and
concentrate runoff into ditch lines which may erode exposed surface soils and deliver
sediment to streams at crossings. This process can also increase the effective drainage
network as road ditches intercept runoff and can form new channels. Sediment-plugged
culverts become sediment sources when stream flow is strong enough to remove the culvert
and associated sediment. Cut bank erosion and slumping are also potential sediment sources.

ALTERNATIVE 1

Soil, surface water drainage, and erosion hazards would be controlled by natural processes in
the project area under Alternative 1 because no construction would occur.

ALTERNATIVES 2, 3 AND 4

A site-specific, detailed erosion control plan would be required as part of an approved
operating plan for all action alternatives. The erosion control plan would address construction and operation of all project facilities, including the marine facilities, diversion dam and
intake, pipeline, penstock, surge tank, powerhouse and switch yard, access roads,
transmission cable, barge landing, staging areas, construction camp, and rock and borrow
sites.

In Alternative 2, because of steep slopes and the proximity of the diversion dam access road
to Thayer Creek, full bench road construction, minimal excavation width and geotechnical
studies would be required for final project design (BMP 14.7). The potential for surface
erosion along this road would be reduced, but not eliminated, by implementation of
appropriate BMPs. Nevertheless, surface erosion is expected and sediment would likely
enter Thayer Creek. Because the diversion dam access road in Alternatives 3 and 4 would be
rerouted to avoid most steep slopes, the potential for road related sediment to enter Thayer
Creek is much lower.

Estimated acres exposed to surface erosion for all alternatives are included in Table 3-1.
These estimates are based on past experience with road construction in Southeast Alaska in
which 4.8 acres of disturbance is associated with the construction of one mile of road, and
one acre of disturbance per mile of road is associated with rock pit development.

Table 3-1. Potential for Surface Erosion – Acres of Disturbance

3.3.2.3 Effects - Landslides (Mass Wasting)

Road building on slopes exceeding 67%, regardless of soil drainage, are considered to have
an increased landslide potential and should be avoided where feasible (USDA Forest Service
1997).

ALTERNATIVE 1

The potential for landslides would be controlled by natural conditions under Alternative 1
since no development would occur. Evidence of existing landslides or mass wasting along
the road corridor was not observed during field surveys of the project area.

ALTERNATIVE 2

The road corridor for Alternative 2 between the power plant and the diversion dam contains
over 300 feet of slopes greater than 67% (see Road Cards, Appendix B). The potential for
landslides during and after construction on these slopes is higher than for the segment of road
that would bypass these steep slopes and, if landslides occurred, would adversely affect the
hydrology and fish resources in the lower 1,300 feet of Thayer Creek.

For all action alternatives the road corridor between the marine facilities and the power plant
is entirely on slopes less than 67%.

In Alternatives 2 and 3 the transmission line/maintenance road corridor between the marine
facilities and Kootznahoo Inlet includes two segments located on slopes greater than 67%.
One 350-foot segment is located approximately ½-mile south of the marine facility and a
second 1,000-foot segment occurs approximately ½-mile beyond the first. A landslide along
the first segment would remove surface vegetation and expose underlying soil to accelerated
surface erosion but, because of its location, would not significantly affect downstream
hydrology and fish resources since there are no fish streams between this segment and salt
water. The second segment poses the greater risk of landslides and, since it is located
adjacent to a stream channel, potential landslides would impact downstream hydrology and
fish resources. If the final design for the transmission line and road interrupts the road at this
segment, steep slopes may be avoided. This would require access from both ends of the
transmission line.
Implementation of BMPs 14.7 and 14.12 would reduce the risk of landslides. Timing
restrictions (BMP 14.6) to avoid road construction during periods of high precipitation would
also reduce the risk of mass failures.

ALTERNATIVE 3

Alternative 3 was designed, in part, to minimize road construction on steep, potentially
unstable, slopes. The road corridor between the power plant and the diversion dam would be
rerouted to avoid steep slopes adjacent to Thayer Creek. The new location, however, still
crosses approximately 150 feet of slopes greater than 67% along a 670 foot road segment
facing Chatham Straits adjacent to the mouth of Thayer Creek. Potential landslides along
this segment would not enter Thayer Creek and would not adversely affect downstream
hydrology and fish resources.
Except as described above, the potential for mass wasting from construction on steep slopes
in Alternative 3 is the same as that for Alternative 2.

ALTERNATIVE 4

Alternative 4 was also designed, in part, to minimize road construction on steep, potentially
unstable, slopes. The road corridor for Alternative 4 between the power plant and the
diversion dam is located along the same route as in Alternative 3 and would have similar
soil-related effects.
Since Alternative 4 would utilize a submerged transmission line from the marine facility to
Angoon, no overland construction would occur south of the marine facility. This would eliminate mass wasting risks associated with the two areas of steep slopes described in
Alternatives 2 and 3.

Except as described above, the potential for mass wasting from construction on steep slopes
in Alternative 4 is the same as that for Alternative 2.

3.4 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES - WATER RESOURCES

This section discusses water quantity and water quality in the Angoon Hydroelectric Project
area, as well as the potential effects associated with the alternatives. The information in this
section was drawn from the water resources specialist report prepared for this project, which
is on file at the Admiralty Island National Monument office.

3.4.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT – WATER RESOURCES

The project area has a maritime climate with cool summers and relatively mild winters.
Precipitation is abundant year-round and conditions are frequently overcast or foggy. Annual
precipitation is estimated at about 100 inches (Wiley and Curran 2003). Review of climate
data from Angoon suggests that precipitation in the project area could be lower. Estimates of
mean annual precipitation in Angoon range from 42 to 53 inches (Western Regional Climate
Center [WRCC] 2008).

The average annual temperature is approximately 41 degrees Fahrenheit (°F), ranging from
winter lows of -10°F and summer highs of about 85°F (HDR Alaska 2000). The lower
elevations of the project area are in a transient snow zone, where freezing conditions are
common in the winter, but rarely extend longer than a week (WRCC 2008). The Thayer
Creek watershed extends from tidewater to 3,890 feet at Thayer Mountain and encompasses
64 square miles. Thayer Lake, at an elevation of approximately 368 feet, has a surface area of
approximately 2,809 acres (4.4 square miles) and provides some natural regulation of the
flows in Thayer Creek below the lake (HDR Alaska 2000). Many unnamed streams drain
into Thayer Lake.

Thayer Creek flows from the west-southwest arm of Thayer Lake for approximately 6 miles
through a broad, flat valley at a mild grade. It then enters a deeply incised, steep forested
canyon for approximately 7,500 feet with many cascades and falls. The proposed
hydroelectric diversion site is at the upstream end of the canyon.
At its downstream end, the canyon concludes in two waterfalls that prohibit upstream
migration of fish. Additional details are found in the Fisheries Resource Report. There is
one plunge pool of unknown depth at the base of the downstream falls, after which the
stream gradient decreases to about one percent, with continuous riffle to tidal influence. This
lowest segment of Thayer Creek, from falls to tidal influence, is about 1020 feet long. The
proposed hydroelectric powerhouse is on the south bank of the creek in this area.
Several small, unnamed tributaries join Thayer Creek in the canyon. In July 2008, only the
two largest (on the north side) contained measurable streamflow, each less than one cubic
foot per second (cfs).

Coastal areas and streams north and south of Thayer Creek will also be affected by the
project access roads and/or transmission line. The road cards describe the affected streams.

 

3.4.1.1 Affected Environment - Water Quantity

STREAMFLOWS

Because streamflow data are incomplete for Thayer Creek, a comparison was made to the
adjacent Hasselborg Creek watershed for the purpose of evaluating project feasibility (HDR
Alaska 2003). The USGS maintained a gauging station on Hasselborg Creek for 17 years
between July 1951 and September 1968. The Water Resources Report (Thompson 2008)
contains a detailed comparison of the two watersheds. The basins are very similar, providing
a reasonable basis for estimating Thayer Creek streamflow from the Hasselborg Creek
streamflow record. Based on the ratio of respective drainage areas, Thayer Creek
streamflows at the diversion site have been estimated as 114% of the Hasselborg Creek
streamflows at the USGS gage site. The extreme minimum flow recorded at Hasselborg is
23 cfs, which would translate to a predicted minimum of 26 cfs at Thayer Creek. The
extreme maximum flow recorded at Hasselborg is 2,220 cfs which translates to a predicted
maximum of 2,530 cfs at Thayer Creek.

Figure 3-1 displays the predicted Thayer Creek mean daily streamflow, based on the
Hasselborg Creek streamflow record.

 

Figure 3-1. Mean Daily Streamflow, Thayer Creek, based on
Hasselborg Creek streamflow record

3.4.1.2 Water Quality

Water quality parameters most likely to be impacted by the Angoon Hydroelectric Project
include turbidity, sediment, temperature, and dissolved oxygen in streambed materials prone to freezing in winter. Since there is no existing large scale human-caused disturbance in
these watersheds, water quality is currently influenced only by natural processes.

We divided Thayer Creek into four reaches (segments), referred to as A through D (see
Figure 2-2 in Chapter 2), progressing from tidal influence in an upstream direction. The
Water Resources Report (Thompson 2008) provides a detailed description of the reaches.
The break between Reaches A and B is indistinct in the field; the primary differentia is the
extent of tidal influence upstream. These reaches comprise the anadromous fish portion of
Thayer Creek; they are sometimes combined in the discussion for convenience. Total
combined length of Reach A and B is about 1020 feet.

Reach A is an ES4-Large Estuarine Channel (Paustian 1992) which is frequently influenced
by saltwater during high tides. A debris jam controls flow into a side channel with dominant
substrate of gravel. This side-channel is inundated during high tides. Otherwise dominant
substrate in this reach is large cobble, similar to Reach B. There are no pools in Reach A.
Sediment and turbidity increase during high flows triggered by spring snowmelt and fall
rains. Cool stream temperatures are normally maintained from the shaded reach upstream,
but can be warmed by tidal influence during very warm summer days. In winter, sustained
flow from Thayer Lake and tidal influence would help maintain stream temperature above
freezing during extended cold weather (Sheridan 1961). Dissolved oxygen is likely near
saturation year-round.

Reach B is an LC2-Moderate Gradient Contained Narrow Valley Channel (Paustian 1992).
This reach extends from tidal influence to the downstream end of the canyon. There is one
plunge pool of unknown depth at the base of the downstream falls. Wood in Reach B stores
sediment, creates quiet water during high flows, and directs water into a short (75 ft) sidechannel.
Sediment is efficiently transported through this channel. Fine sediment in
particular is rapidly flushed through this reach and only notable near the banks and in the side
channel. Sediment and turbidity increase during high flows triggered by spring snowmelt
and fall rains. Cool stream temperatures are maintained by forest shade and rapid, turbulent
flow in the summer. In winter, sustained flow from Thayer Lake and turbulent flow would
help maintain stream temperature above freezing during extended cold weather, especially
when snow and ice cover is present (Sheridan 1961). De-watered streambeds may freeze
during low winter flows, especially where flow is divided into multiple threads across the
riffle and no snow is present. Dissolved oxygen is likely near saturation year-round except
where the stream is frozen solid into the streambed.

Reach C comprises the majority of the bypass reach (below the diversion site). This is a
MC3-Deeply Incised Contained Channel (Paustian 1992). The dominant streambed material
in this canyon is bedrock. We verified the presence of numerous small slope failures and
tributaries supplying large wood, gravel and cobbles to the stream. Sediment is efficiently
transported through this channel. Sediment and turbidity increase during high flows triggered
by spring snowmelt and fall rains. Cool stream temperatures are maintained by forest shade
and rapid, turbulent flow in the summer. In winter, sustained flow from Thayer Lake and
turbulent flow help maintain stream temperature above freezing during extended cold
weather, but it is likely that shallow water freezes during low winter flows especially where
the stream is divided into multiple threads over cascades. Dissolved oxygen is likely near
saturation year-round except where the stream is frozen.

Reach D, above the proposed diversion site, is a stable FP5-Wide Low Gradient Flood Plain
Channel (Paustian 1992). The dominant streambed material in this reach is sand and gravel.
Large wood enters the stream from riparian forest and is important for sediment storage,
channel stability, and fish habitat. Sediment is stored in this channel during much of the
year, but is mobilized during high flows in spring and fall. Although Thayer Creek has high
sediment-transporting power due to its large contributing watershed, the presence of Thayer
Lake, which intercepts many headwater tributaries and traps sediment, limits sediment
supply from most of the watershed. Sediment and turbidity increase during high flows
triggered by spring snowmelt and fall rains. Cool stream temperatures are maintained by
forest shade and deep pools in the summer. In winter, deep pools and sustained flow from
Thayer Lake maintain stream temperature above freezing during extended cold weather.
Dissolved oxygen is likely near saturation year-round.

3.4.2 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS ON WATER RESOURCES

Effects to water resources are summarized in Table 3-2 and explained further in the analysis
that follows the table.

Table 3-2. Potential Effects of the Angoon Hydroelectric Project on Water Resources(1)

1 All effects are on Thayer Creek; erosion and sediment effects are for all project area streams
2 Effects Definitions are further described below.

ALL ALTERNATIVES – EFFECTS DEFINITIONS:
No effect – resource measure is not impacted.

Stream flow:
Negligible: naturally occurring high flows will not be measurably affected by diversion.
Minor: diversion will diminish naturally occurring summer low flows but they are likely to
be shorter duration than winter low flows, recovering rapidly in response to rain
Moderate: diversion will diminish naturally occurring winter low flows in stream reaches
supporting resident and anadromous fish. Winter low flows will last longer and/or occur
more frequently.

Water temperature/dissolved oxygen:
Negligible to minor: diminished flow levels are unlikely to measurably increase temperatures
in stream reaches supporting resident fish.
Minor: diminished flow levels are likely to increase temperature during warm weather,
especially in stream reach supporting anadromous fish which lacks pools
Moderate: minimum flow will not prevent periodic freezing in stream reaches supporting
resident and anadromous fish. Dissolved oxygen will be depressed in dewatered/frozen
spawning gravels

Erosion and Sediment:
Minor: all facilities located to avoid or unstable terrain. All facilities governed by erosion
control plans & BMPs to be approved by FS
Major: road and pipeline locations on unstable terrain would not meet Forest Plan Standards
and Guidelines for Soil and Water. Otherwise all facilities governed by erosion control plans
& BMPs to be approved by FS

3.4.2.1 Effects - Water Quantity

The Water Resources Report (Thompson 2008) discusses a range of instream flow
requirements from 0 to 50 cfs, consistent with the power generation assumptions considered
in HDR (2000). The project proponent did not conduct an instream flow analysis. For the
purposes of displaying effects in this EIS, we have selected instream flow requirements of 20
cfs (Alternative 2) or 40 cfs (Alternatives 3 and 4). These flows encompass the range of
predicted extreme low flows in Thayer Creek. All alternatives would affect fish habitat in
the bypass reach, especially during periods of naturally occurring low flows. The effects are
likely to be most severe in winter, but would be incrementally less with increasing instream
flow requirements. The Record of Decision for this project will identify a minimum instream
flow requirement, or it may defer the requirement to be negotiated between the proponent
and the State of Alaska as part of the ACMP and/or Title 16 permitting processes. The
Special Use Authorization will include a minimum instream flow requirement of at least 20
cfs, and monitoring requirements to validate effects on fish habitat and adapt requirements as
necessary in consultation with ADFG.

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

Under the No Action alternative, stream flows throughout the project area would be
controlled by natural events and would retain their current volume and pattern.

ALTERNATIVE 2 (PROPOSED ACTION)

Alternative 2 would affect streamflow in the bypass reach of Thayer Creek, from the
diversion dam to the tailrace from the powerhouse. The proposed diversion dam would be
located at the upstream end of the canyon, creating an impoundment with surface area of 10
to 20 acres. The project would operate as run-of-the-river with no active storage (inflow to
impoundment always equals outflow). A maximum of 82 cfs would be diverted from Thayer
Creek, with minimum instream flow of 20 cfs through the bypass reach. A flow of 20 cfs
was intended to approximate natural low flows at Thayer Creek (HDR Alaska 2000).
Diverted streamflow would be returned to Thayer Creek from the power house
approximately 450 feet downstream of the lower barrier falls1 in the vicinity of transition
between Reaches A and B.

HDR Alaska summarized an operations model developed specifically for this project (HDR
Alaska 2000) that displays the relationship between streamflow and power generation under
various assumptions.

“Generally, the [predicted] flow in Thayer Creek is much greater than necessary to generate
all of Angoon’s power requirements. However, under some conditions, the flows drop low
enough that the hydro generation will need to be supplemented from other sources (e.g. the
existing diesel generators).” (ibid, page 28)

They concluded that this project would supply all of Angoon’s power needs at current load
levels over 99% of the time, requiring supplemental power about two days per year. HDR
Alaska’s operations model includes load-following capability and variables for headwater,
tailwater, and generating and transmission efficiencies. Our conclusions, using only
predicted annual and monthly flow duration curves, are slightly different.

Flow duration curves display the percent of time that predicted streamflow in Thayer Creek
equals or exceeds values associated with power generation and a range of instream flow
requirements. We analyzed two power generation scenarios. One turbine capacity, which
approximates current power demand at Angoon (HDR Alaska 2000), is calculated as 41 cfs
plus minimum instream flow of 20 cfs for a total of 61 cfs. Two turbine or maximum power
capacity is calculated as 82 cfs plus minimum instream flow of 20 cfs for a total of 102 cfs.

Figure 3-2 displays the predicted annual flow duration curve for Thayer Creek.

1 HDR (2000) described the powerplant discharge at 300 feet downstream of the barrier falls. Based on the description
of the powerhouse location in HDR 2000, we measured this distance in the field as about 450 feet.

Figure 3-2. Predicted Annual Flow Duration Curve for Thayer Creek,
comparing two power capacities with a 20 cfs instream flow requirement.

Appendix A contains annual duration curves for instream flow requirements of 0, 20, 30, 40
and 50 cfs; results are summarized in Table 3-3. For Alternative 2, we predict that
streamflow may be insufficient to meet current power generation demand combined with
instream flow requirement for about 15 days per year.

Table 3-3. Results of Annual Flow Duration Curves (Appendix A).

* HDR Alaska did not display results of their operations model for 30 or 40 cfs instream flow
requirements.

An analysis of monthly flow duration curves (Appendix B) shows that January, February,
and March are likely to be the most limiting months in terms of the percentage of time that
streamflow might not be sufficient for power generation. In March, assuming minimum
instream flow of 20 cfs, we predict Thayer Creek streamflow is likely to be sufficient to meet
the one turbine capacity 94% of the time.

Figure 3-3. Predicted flow duration curve (March) – Thayer Creek

This information is shown for all months in Table 3-4. The analysis at this more detailed
scale is not expected to exactly match the results of the annual duration curve, and is only
intended to display which months might be more limiting.

Table 3-4. Percent time predicted Thayer Creek streamflow equals or exceeds power
capacity for Angoon Hydroelectric Project by month.

We surveyed a channel cross section near the downstream end of the bypass reach (in the
LC2 channel – Reach B). Figure 3-4 displays a prediction of what the stream would look
like in the lowest portion of the bypass reach if only the minimum instream flow (in this case
20 cfs) is present.

In a highest water removal scenario, when only the minimum instream flow is in the bypass
reach, the maximum water depth is predicted to be about 1.1 foot. A minimum instream flow
of 20 cfs may keep the deepest part of the stream from freezing during extended cold
weather, but it will likely result in freezing temperatures in shallow areas of the stream. In
Reach C, low flows are not likely to be concentrated in a single thread channel, but spread
out into multiple rivulets over numerous cascades which are more likely to freeze. The small
tributaries in the bypass reach are unlikely to contribute any measurable streamflow during
low flow periods.

In summary, Alternative 2 would have moderate effects on streamflow in bypass reaches B
and C. Effects are considered moderate because they would be measurable at the stream
reach scale and could last more than a week. Flow diversion will diminish naturally
occurring winter low flows in stream reaches supporting resident and anadromous fish.
Winter low flows will last longer and/or occur more frequently.

ALTERNATIVE 3 (BURIED TRANSMISSION LINES)

Alternative 3 would have similar effects on streamflow as Alternative 2, except that
minimum instream flow is higher (40 cfs) and the tailrace discharge location is at or above
the lowest fish barrier, so the stream reach supporting anadromous fish is not affected by the
diversion. Alternative 3 would have moderate effects on streamflow in bypass Reach C. The
diversion will diminish naturally occurring low flows in stream reaches supporting resident
fish. Winter low flows will last longer and/or occur more frequently. 40 cfs provides deeper
flow and submerges more of the channel than 20 cfs.

ALTERNATIVE 4 (SUBMERGED TRANSMISSION LINES)

Alternative 4 would have the same effects on streamflow as Alternative 3.
3.4.2.2 Effects - Water Quality
ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)
Under the No Action alternative, water quality would be determined by natural events.

ALTERNATIVE 2 (PROPOSED ACTION)

In Alternative 2, short-term turbidity and suspended sediment transport would occur
intermittently during instream construction of the intake and dam. These are considered
minor effects; although measurable, they are temporary and localized.
The dam incorporates a sluice for bedload flushing but the frequency or means of flushing is
not specified. A reduction in bedload transport would occur while the impoundment fills.
Once the pond fills, bedload is likely to deposit at the upstream end of the pond and may not
ever reach the dam unless the impoundment water level is intentionally drawn down during
high flows. Bedload sediment is also supplied downstream of the diversion from small
tributaries and steep, eroding canyon walls in Reach C. This sediment source partly
alleviates the loss of sediment from Reach D, but it is possible that streambed materials in the
bypass reach could coarsen over time. Since streambed materials in Reach B may already be
considered relatively coarse, loss of fine materials from upstream could further limit
spawning habitat in Reach B. The extent and magnitude of the effects of the dam on
sediment supply in the bypass reach are uncertain. We have characterized them as minor to
moderate and we have identified relevant monitoring requirements for Reach B.

The effects of the dam on large wood supply would be minor. Large wood sources were
identified within the bypass reach. We have identified relevant monitoring requirements for
Reach B.

Streamflow diversion may indirectly result in extended periods of freezing stream
temperature. Minimum flow of 20 cfs will not prevent periodic freezing in stream reaches
supporting resident and anadromous fish. Dissolved oxygen will be depressed in
dewatered/frozen spawning gravels (Becker and Neitzel 1985). We have identified relevant
monitoring requirements for Reach B.

Alternative 2 would construct a total of about 7.8 miles of access road including 0.2 miles of
temporary road to install a surge tank. The proposed road does not avoid unstable terrain,
particularly in the vicinity of the Thayer Creek canyon. The road location described in HDR
2000 is not consistent with Best Management Practices and would not meet Forest Plan
Standards and Guidelines for Soil and Water. Roads under this alternative would have major
effects on water quality since they are likely to result in long term instability and chronic
sediment sources in the immediate vicinity of Thayer Creek. If Alternative 2 is selected, the
access road location would have to be modified to be consistent with the Forest Plan and may
need to be modified to be consistent with the Clean Water Act.

Otherwise, all facilities constructed for the Angoon Hydroelectric Project would be governed
by erosion control plans containing site specific BMPs for minimizing erosion and sediment
transport. These include the dam, the dam access road, the pipeline, a penstock and bridge
crossing Thayer Creek, the powerhouse, a road from the powerhouse to the marine facilities,
and a road under the transmission line. Road-related BMPs and road-stream crossings are
described in the Road Cards. BMPs are expected to limit erosion and sediment to minor
effects; short term and localized. Kootznoowoo would be responsible for road maintenance.

The transmission lines would have minimal effects on water quality. Under Alternative 2, the
transmission lines would extend aerially from the power plant to a switch yard at Kootznahoo
Inlet, and then be submerged across Kootznahoo Inlet to another switch yard at Angoon.

ALTERNATIVE 3 (BURIED TRANSMISSION LINES)

Effects of Alternative 3 on water quality are similar to Alternative 2 with the following
exceptions:

The SUA would stipulate dam design and operation to routinely pass natural bedload during
spring and fall high flows, using a sediment pass-through technique (Wang and Locher
1996). A low-level outlet would be opened at the beginning of a flood event to draw the
impoundment down well before the peak flood flow occurs. This increases the flow velocity
through the impoundment and transports sediment further downstream. This procedure
reduces the deposition of material in the upper reaches of the impoundment (Wang and
Locher 1996). Effects on sediment supply from upstream of the dam would be considered
negligible to minor.

Streamflow diversion may indirectly result in extended periods of freezing stream
temperature. Minimum flow of 40 cfs will not prevent periodic freezing in stream reaches
supporting resident fish. Dissolved oxygen will be depressed in dewatered/frozen spawning
gravels.

Alternative 3 would construct a total of about 8.3 miles of access road. We assumed that the
transmission line would be buried under the road, requiring increased excavation and more
ground disturbance than typical logging road construction. The proposed road avoids
unstable terrain, is consistent Best Management Practices and would meet Forest Plan
Standards and Guidelines for Soil and Water. Road and pipeline under this alternative would
have minor effects on water quality, short term and localized. Other facilities and affects
would be as described in Alternative 2.

ALTERNATIVE 4 (SUBMERGED TRANSMISSION LINES)

Effects of Alternative 4 on water quality are similar to Alternative 3 with the following
exceptions:
Alternative 4 would construct a total of about 4.3 miles of access road. The proposed road
avoids unstable terrain, is consistent Best Management Practices and would meet Forest Plan
Standards and Guidelines for Soil and Water. Road and pipeline under this alternative would
have minor effects on water quality, short term and localized.

The marine effects of the submerged transmission line are addressed in the Fisheries Section.

3.5 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES - FISHERIES

This section discusses fish and fish habitat in the Angoon Hydroelectric Project area, as well
as the potential effects associated with the alternatives. The information in this section was
drawn from the fisheries specialist report prepared for this project, which is on file at the
Admiralty Island National Monument office.

3.5.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - FISHERIEs

The previous section of this document discusses the hydrology of the project area in detail as
well as potential effects of various project components under each alternative.

FISH SPECIES

The majority of Thayer Creek contains only resident fish, due to a natural fish barrier located
approximately 335m (1,020ft) from the mouth that precludes anadromous access upstream.
However, this section of stream, much of it tidally influenced, estuarine-type channel,
supports anadromous salmonids and contains limited salmon spawning habitat.

The ADFG Anadromous Waters Catalog lists only pink and chum salmon in Thayer Creek.
However, in early July 2004, Forest Service resource specialists sampled fish species within
Thayer Creek using minnow traps. They trapped both coho salmon fry and juvenile steelhead
trout downstream of the anadromous barrier (Reaches A and B, see Figure 2-2 in Chapter 2).
Coho fry ranging in size from 40mm (1.5in) to 80mm (3.25in) were observed, with many
located in quiet seasonal side pools along the main channel. Steelhead juveniles were
approximately 150mm (6in) long. Adult pink and chum typically enter the creek in late July
to spawn (Pers. Comm., Kevin Monagle 2008). No adult salmon or trout were observed
during the survey. Based on the presence of coho and steelhead fry, it is reasonable to
assume that Dolly Varden would also be present within Reach A and B during the fall
spawning season. No fish were noted in Reach C, while numerous cutthroat trout ranging in
size from 100mm (4in) to more than 200mm (8in) were observed within Reach D.

Fish use of the anadromous reach likely includes spawning and rearing for chum, pink, and
coho salmon, and Dolly Varden. Seasonal rearing habitat is available for steelhead and
cutthroat trout and juvenile coho salmon. Upstream of the barrier, resident fish, primarily
cutthroat trout, are present. The source for these fish would be Thayer Lake and Reach D.

Federally listed salmon and steelhead stocks (e.g., Puget Sound Chinook salmon) are not
present within the project area; they are found only on the outer coast of the Tongass
National Forest (USDA Forest Service 1997). The Tongass Land and Resource Management
Plan (USDA Forest Service 2008a) identified three Forest Service Region 10 sensitive fish
species that occur on the Forest. These include the Fish Creek chum salmon, the Island
Chinook salmon, and the northern pike. The northern pike is found only on the Yakutat
forelands and the Fish Creek chum salmon occurs near Hyder. The Island Chinook salmon
occurs naturally on islands including runs in King Salmon Creek and Wheeler Creek.

Although these sites are on Admiralty Island, they are not within the project area and would
thus not be affected by the proposed project.

3.5.1.1 Affected Environment - Fish Habitat

The Forest Service geographic information system (GIS) stream layer mapping identified
four distinct channel types in Thayer Creek within the project area (Table 3-5) differentiated
according to the Channel Type User Guide (USDA Forest Service 1992). A Forest Service
fisheries specialist conducted a site visit in July 2004. Visual observations confirmed the
channel type descriptions listed in Table 3-5. For the purposes of this discussion, the four
reaches of Thayer Creek will be referred to as A through D, progressing from the mouth in an
upstream direction.

Table 3-5. Thayer Creek Channel Types within the Angoon Hydroelectric Project Area

Several waterfalls are located in Reach B, preventing upstream use of Thayer Creek by
anadromous salmonids. Within Reach B, a downstream barrier falls approximately 1,020 ft
from tidewater appears to be passable to coho salmon, Dolly Varden, steelhead, and cutthroat
trout, but not pink or chum salmon. Roughly 15 feet upstream from these falls is a second set
of 10-foot high falls, which form an upstream migration barrier to all fish.

Reaches A and B have a shallow, anadromous channel morphology, with only one qualifying
pool (at the base of the falls), and limited large woody debris (LWD-only 8 key pieces total).

It is unlikely that adult fish overwinter in these stream reaches. Qualifying pools must have a
residual depth of 16.5 inches (0.42m) for a channel 90 ft wide (USFS 2001). Overall, the
quality of anadromous spawning habitat is moderate for pink and chum, but considered poor
for all other species, which in turn limits fish production. Substrate of the lowest 1,020ft of
Thayer Creek (anadromous section) is composed of river deposit consisting of gravelly sand
and rounded cobbles (Harza 1995).

Harza (1995) reported that the habitat within Reach C was relatively poor, with extremely
limited fish spawning, rearing, and holding habitat throughout the reach, although they
indicated that the reach may be used by a small number of resident cutthroat trout. Visual
observations from the canyon rim noted numerous riffle and fall complexes, some of which
may be barriers to upstream migration of cutthroat trout. MC3 channel types offer little
spawning or rearing habitat for salmonids (USDA FS 1992). For safety reasons it was not
feasible to survey the creek within the canyon. The Forest Service does not have population
data for cutthroat trout in Reach C, but agree with Harza’s assessment that it would support
small resident populations. With limited quality habitat available, eventually these fish would
conceivably make their way to saltwater. Movement upstream into Reach D is prevented by
the barrier falls found at the upper end of Reach C.

Reach D contains very productive spawning and rearing habitat for resident fish, consisting
of numerous LWD complexes, side channels, beaver ponds, robust vegetation, clean gravels,
and deep undercut banks. FP5 channel types provide high value to resident freshwater
species because of the excellent rearing habitat available in association with side channels,
accumulations of LWD, and off-channel pools.

3.5.2 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS ON FISHERIES

Table 3-6. Potential Effects of the Angoon Hydroelectric Project on Fisheries

3.5.2.1 Effects – Fish and Fish Habitat

All action alternatives would affect reaches A through D of Thayer Creek and the aquatic life
that inhabits the stream, with negligible effects on small amounts of beach, intertidal, and
benthic habitat within Chatham Strait. The effects can be divided into several major
components, for which effects from project construction and operation are discussed in detail
below. The primary project elements that have potential to affect fish and aquatic resources
are: (1) diversion dam and intake; (2) power plant discharge; (3) access roads, overhead
transmission lines, and staging areas; and (4) marine facilities. Table 3-6 summarizes the
fisheries habitat components affected by the project.

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

Because no development would occur within the project area, natural stream processes would
continue, which would control fish habitat and populations.

ALTERNATIVE 2 (PROPOSED ACTION)

Several potential effects are associated with the construction and operation of the diversion
dam, sluice, and intake. The 10-foot high dam would completely block all upstream fish
passage and most downstream passage. A dam could interfere most with the downstream
movement of resident cutthroat trout from Reach D to Reach C. A sluice at the dam would
need to allow for the safe downstream passage of fish. Natural conditions are less than ideal
for the downstream migration of fish due to the prevalence of exposed rock and lack of
pools. Since the water intake will be properly situated and screened to keep fish out, turbine
operation of the dam should not cause direct fish injury or mortality (NMFS 1996).

Timing dam construction during low-flow periods, exclusion of fish from the work area
(BMP 14.15), and the application of BMP 14.14, Control of In-Channel Operations, would
minimize injury or death of fish during dam construction. Fish could be injured or killed
during construction due to human or mechanical disturbance within the stream channel or
increased downstream sedimentation without these controls in place.

A 10 to 20-acre pond would be impounded behind the 10 foot high dam for 750 feet
upstream (HDR Alaska 2000). This ponded area in Reach D would flood riparian forest and
result in the submersion of spawning riffles. Although some spawning habitat would be lost,
a large quantity of high-quality spawning habitat exists upstream. The loss of spawning
habitat would be compensated by increased cutthroat trout rearing and overwintering habitat
provided by the diversion pond. The cutthroat trout population, therefore, would likely
remain stable.

Development of the hydroelectric project would reduce flows in approximately 1.5 miles
(7,950 feet) of Thayer Creek, which includes all of Reach B and C. The applicant would be
required to maintain a minimum, year-round in-stream flow below the dam to provide some
level of habitat and connectivity during low flow periods for resident and anadromous fishes.
The in-stream flow would be provided through the sluice constructed in the dam. There are
three perennial tributary streams below the proposed diversion dam that collectively
contribute less than 1 cfs to the affected reaches.

Once the storage capacity of the dam is attained, flows in excess of the intake capacity
(approx. 82 cfs) would spill over the dam into Thayer Creek (Reach C). With potential
withdrawal of up to 82 cfs, low flow periods in the bypass (Reaches B and C) would be
extended earlier into the fall and later into the spring than would occur naturally. As water
becomes less available in the fall due to freeze-up, low flows in the bypass will occur earlier
than under natural conditions as water is removed for power generation. In the spring,
anticipated maximum demand for water (82 cfs) will prolong low flow conditions in the
bypass reach as excess water slowly becomes naturally available. Excess water can be
defined as that amount above 102 cfs: 20 cfs minimum recommended flow + 82 cfs for
power generation. For example, in winter when natural flows are low and energy demands
are high, the diversion would reduce stream flows of 100 cfs to approximately 20 cfs. This
scenario would very likely prevent fish from overwintering in the bypass. Therefore, under
the Proposed Action, Reaches B and C would support few, if any, incubating eggs or resident
fish through the winter when flows are most critical.

Changes to the flow regime and volume of flow would have little effect on sediment and
LWD transport (see hydrology effects, above). A short-term reduction in bedload sediment
supply would occur while the pond fills, as would some coursing of the downstream channel
substrate.

It is unlikely that water withdrawal from Thayer Creek could lead to lethal high temperatures
(>12°C) in the dewatered section as 82 cfs would be a relatively insignificant amount when
compared to flow levels normally found during the summer. Thayer Lake is located
approximately 6 miles upstream of the proposed impoundment and would no longer
influence water temperatures. Any effects from the creation of a 20 acre impoundment on
water temperatures would be negligible due to the relatively small size.

The water discharge structure at the power plant would be designed with a perched ledge and
a concrete pad or rip-rap to dissipate outfall energy and prevent fish from entering the
discharge structure. The outfall protection, rip-rap or concrete pad, would decrease or prevent
scouring and downstream sedimentation. Without these design features fish could swim up
the discharge pipe and be injured or killed, or redds could be smothered by fine sediment
created by scour and erosion at the outfall. With these features operation of the power plant
and the discharge of water would not kill or injure salmon or reduce their populations.
Since the power house discharge would enter Thayer Creek below the anadromous fish
barrier, approximately 450 feet of anadromous fish habitat would be affected. Minimum instream
flow requirements would be designed to maintain the existing quality of this habitat as
much as feasible.

Flow reduction in the 450 feet of anadromous fish habitat in Reach B would cause a seasonal
loss of spawning and rearing habitat for pink, chum, and coho salmon and Dolly Varden
char. It would also cause a seasonal loss of rearing habitat for steelhead and cutthroat trout.
Competition for habitat between individual fish may increase, although the lower 570 feet of
Thayer Creek below the power plant discharge contains moderate-quality rearing and
spawning habitat, and natural hydrologic regimes would remain in this area. Therefore, the
proposed discharge location would likely cause a moderate reduction in anadromous fish
populations.

Construction and operation of access roads, overhead transmission lines, the powerhouse,
and associated staging areas would require permanent and temporary clearing of vegetation
and ground-disturbing activities that could potentially serve as sediment sources. These
features, if placed immediately adjacent to Thayer Creek, could degrade riparian habitat and
increase the suspended sediment load. Potential effects to aquatic resources from riparian
disturbance could include reduced stream shading, litterfall, and LWD recruitment.

The access roads would generally be located at least 200 feet from Thayer Creek. Reach B
and C, the primary stream sections potentially affected by these features, is entrenched in a
steep canyon with vertical separation from project facilities. The separation between the
facilities and the creek and the application of BMP’s described in the soils and hydrology
sections above, would prevent sedimentation in Thayer Creek.

In Alternative 2, transmission lines and associated access road extend from the power plant
on the south side of Thayer Creek to Kootznahoo Inlet. There would be three Class II stream
crossings on this route. These crossings would need to pass a minimum of 50-year flood
events and abide with State of Alaska fish passage standards with minimal downstream scour
(BMP 14.17 - Bridge and Culvert Design and Installation). Roads would be designed with a
sufficient number of relief culverts and culverts sized to maintain natural drainage and flow
patterns (BMP14.3 b).

Construction and operation of the marine facilities and installation of the submarine lines
would have minor effects on aquatic habitat. Effects from the construction of the temporary
barge landing could result in the alteration or loss of a small amount of beach and nearshore
habitat. However, based on the small area of habitat disruption, the temporary nature of the
facilities, and the planned regrading and revegetation of the beach to a pre-project condition,
these effects would not affect aquatic life, including salmonids.

Aquatic resources would not be affected by the installation of two mooring buoys because of
the relatively small area they would occupy. Similarly, the laying of 4,600 feet of submarine
lines on the bottom of Kootznahoo Inlet (Alternative 2) or the laying of about 5 miles of
submarine lines 600 feet deep in Chatham Strait (Alternative 4) would not affect nearshore,
littoral, or benthic habitats. The amount of space taken up by the lines relative to the habitat
within Kootznahoo Inlet or Chatham Strait would be minor.

ALTERNATIVE 3 (BURIED TRANSMISSION LINE)

Alternative 3 differs from Alternative 2 (Proposed Action) in eight conditions which would
be included in the special use authorization (see 2.3.4 Alternative 3 in Chapter 2 of this EIS).
The effects of the project on fish resources in the project area would be the same as in the
Proposed Action with the following differences.

By burying the transmission lines under this alternative, the minimum distances needed for
vegetation removal would decrease, but the amount of excavation work required for
installation would increase. It is difficult to say whether buried lines with less vegetation
disturbance or overhead lines with more vegetation disturbance would result in greater
construction disturbance. The route would not cross any Class I streams but would cross one
Class II stream between the power plant and marine facility and two Class II streams
between the marine facility and Kootznahoo Inlet. Since the transmission line would be
located either within or immediately adjacent to the access/maintenance road, compliance
with BMPs during road construction would essentially also control sediment during
transmission line installation. Following installation the area would revegetate and, since the
road would be used only for line maintenance, sediment production would be minimal. The
potential for significant effects to fish is very low.

The requirement to discharge water from the power plant above or immediately below the
lowest anadromous fish barrier would significantly reduce potential effects to anadromous
fish and habitat below the barrier described under Alternative 2 (Proposed Action) since
flows would mimic natural conditions. It would minimize the potential for possible channel
scour in the anadromous reach of Thayer Creek.

By requiring that the diversion dam access road avoid the steep slopes along Thayer Creek,
the potential for introducing sediment and debris into Thayer Creek from slope failures and
road surfaces is greatly reduced. This alternative also requires the road from the marine
facility to the powerhouse be rerouted away from karst features. Other potential routes are
somewhat longer but are less likely to result in road related landslides that could reach
Thayer Creek.

An increase in the required minimum flow (from 20 to 40 cfs) will decrease the negative
dewatering effects of the diversion dam. Additional flow will provide increased pool depth,
greater stream connectivity, and decrease harmful icing conditions during the critical winter
period.
Returning water not needed for power generation at the diversion dam will mimic more
natural flow regimes. If less than 82 cfs is required to meet power demands, routing it
through the bypass reach, as opposed to the power house, will decrease or negate many of the
concerns related to dewatering. This will be especially important during low flow periods
(Jan-Mar).

Passing bedload that builds behind the diversion dam during high flow periods through
addition of a low gate feature to pass bedload will minimize concerns related to channel
stability and fisheries. The movement of bedload throughout Thayer Creek (including the
bypass reach) is critical to maintain natural stream functions and providing the required
source of cobble and gravel for salmonid spawning and rearing. It is not known what level of
bedload will accumulate behind the diversion dam, but incorporating this feature postconstruction
may not be feasible.

The downstream passage of floating wood that accumulates behind the diversion dam is
critical to maintain natural stream functions. Large woody debris adds complexity to streams.
A primary benefit to fish is the creation and deepening of pools, which provide critical
overwinter refugia for rearing salmonids. Maintaining the natural movement of LWD from
Reach D into Reach C by requiring that floating wood from behind the dam be disposed of
into the bypass reach will decrease impacts to fisheries when compared to the proposed
action.

Numerous natural slope failures exist along the Reach C corridor and likely constitute the
majority of bedload and LWD input downstream. The diversion dam is proposed where
Thayer Creek transitions from an FP5 to MC3 channel type. Sediment loads naturally “fall
out” of the water column at this site and should not be considered the primary source of
bedload for Reach A or B downstream. It is expected bedload and LWD inputs in Reach C
will continue to move downstream during high flow events, despite the maximum possible
removal of 82 cfs.

Leaving existing mature trees standing in the reservoir created by the diversion dam should
decrease impacts from ground disturbance. Removal of the trees could cause additional
erosion, increasing fine sediment levels in the creek. Excess silt and sand are considered
harmful to incubating salmonid eggs.

ALTERNATIVE 4 (SUBMERGED TRANSMISSION LINE)

Alternative 4 differs from Alternative 2 (Proposed Action) in eight conditions which would
be included in the special use authorization (see 2.3.4 Alternative 3 in Chapter 2 of this EIS).
The applicant may not construct the proposed overland transmission line and access road
from the marine facility to Kootznahoo Inlet.
Alternative 4 differs from Alternative 3 only in that an overland transmission line route to
Kootznahoo Inlet would not be authorized. Therefore, the effects of this alternative on fish
resources in the project area are the same as described in Alternative 3 with the following
exceptions.

Since no overland transmission line or maintenance road would be authorized under this
alternative there would be about 4.2 miles less of maintenance road and two fewer Class II
stream crossings than in Alternatives 2 or 3. The potential to introduce sediment into fishbearing
streams (other than Thayer Creek), while low under Alternatives 2 and 3, is mostly
eliminated under Alternative 4.

The buried segment of the transmission line along the power plant access road in this
alternative would require additional ground disturbance with the potential to introduce
sediment into streams. This segment of the transmission line route crosses one Class II
stream. As with Alternatives 2 and 3, the potential for significant effects to resident fish
along this segment is minimal.

Laying of 5 miles of submarine lines up to 600 feet deep in Chatham Strait would not affect
nearshore, littoral, or benthic habitats. The amount of space taken up by the lines relative to
the habitat within Chatham Strait would be minor. The line itself would be a concern for
commercial fishermen targeting bottom fish such as halibut and black cod, although the
potential for line damage or gear loss in this location and at 600-foot depth is small.
Commercial fishing along west Admiralty Island does not currently include long-lining.

There should be no impacts to the occasional use of lower Thayer Creek by salt-water
species (flounder, sculpin, forage fish, etc) as the flow regime in this area will not be altered.

Essential Fish Habitat

The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation Act (1996) requires that all federal agencies
consult with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) when any project “may
adversely affect” essential fish habitat. The Angoon Hydroelectric Draft EIS was sent to
NMFS in 2007 and an Essential Fish Habitat (EFH) assessment was provided to NMFS in
November 2008; a summary, directly quoted from that assessment, is included here. No
comments or conservation recommendations were received from that consultation.

Essential Fish Habitat Summary for Angoon Hydroelectric Project

Fish impacts may result if the project affects critical, unique, or limiting habitats used for
spawning, rearing, feeding, migration, etc. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS)
defines essential fish habitat (EFH) as those waters and substrate necessary to fish for spawning,
breeding, feeding, or growth to maturity. “Necessary” means the habitat required
to support a sustainable fishery and a healthy ecosystem; and “spawning, breeding, feeding,
or growth to maturity” covers a species full life cycle.

Descriptions of the Proposed Action and alternatives to the Proposed Action are found in
Chapter 2 of this FEIS.

Potential Adverse Effects of the Actions:

Adverse impacts may result from direct effects of project configuration and operation or
secondary effects during the construction phase. Potential impacts from the Proposed Action
that may adversely affect essential fish habitat which warrant consideration include: 1)
habitat loss and alteration, 2) sediment disturbance during construction, 3) disturbance to
marine fishery, and 4) an outfall design which could become an attractant flow.

For the purposes of this discussion, the four reaches of Thayer Creek will be referred to as A
through D, progressing from the mouth in an upstream direction.

1) Habitat loss and alteration

Reaches A and B have a shallow, anadromous channel morphology, with only one qualifying
pool (at the base of the falls in Reach B), and limited large woody debris (LWD). It is
unlikely that adult fish overwinter in Reaches A or B due to the lack of pools. Overall, the
quality of anadromous spawning habitat is moderate for pink and chum, but considered poor
for all other species, which in turn limits fish production.

The construction of a dam on Thayer Creek could alter the movement of bedload and LWD
from upstream habitat into Reaches A and B. The availability of spawning gravels and LWD
could decrease over time from lack of replacement as the proposed dam would prevent the
natural movement of materials downstream. The loss of bedload and LWD could have a
negative impact on channel stability and may adversely affect EFH. However, the diversion
dam is proposed where Thayer Creek transitions from an FP5 to MC3 channel type.
Sediment loads naturally “fall out” of the water column at this site and should not be
considered the primary source of bedload for Reach A or B. Also, numerous natural slope
failures exist along the Reach C corridor and likely constitute the majority of bedload and
LWD input downstream. Bedload and LWD inputs in the bypass will continue to move
downstream during high flow events.

During periods of low flow, the majority of Reach B (approx. 450ft) could become
effectively dewatered with the maximum removal of 82 cfs. This constitutes roughly 40% of
the anadromous spawning habitat available for salmon. It would also cause a seasonal loss of
rearing habitat for juvenile coho and steelhead. Predicted low flows (Dec-Mar) coincide with
incubating salmonid eggs. Minimum instream flow requirement of 20 cfs, as presented in the
Proposed Action, would likely create harmful icing conditions for egg incubation and alevin
development in the dewatered section of Reach B. If flows of 20 cfs in the bypass are not
adequate to maintain water temperatures, the stream may freeze for longer periods in the
winter. 82 cfs is considered a relatively insignificant amount when compared to flow levels
normally found during the summer.

Once the storage capacity of the dam is attained, flows in excess of the intake capacity
(approx. 82 cfs) would spill over the dam into Thayer Creek. With potential maximum

and extend later into the spring than would occur naturally. As water becomes less available
in the fall due to freeze-up, low flows in the bypass will occur earlier than under natural
conditions as water is removed for power generation. In the spring, anticipated maximum
demand for water will prolong low flow conditions in the bypass as excess water slowly
becomes available naturally. This scenario would likely prevent fish from overwintering in
the bypassed section of the anadromous reach due to a lack of continuity and an increase in
harmful frazil ice (Cunjak, 1996). Therefore, under the Proposed Action, Reach B would
support few, if any, incubating eggs or overwintering fish when flows are most critical. Loss
of habitat from dewatering and an alteration of the flow regime are the primary impacts
which may adversely affect EFH.

Under Alternatives 3 and 4, the tailrace discharge will be returned to the creek above or
immediately below the lowest anadromous barrier. This change would effectively negate the
potential for adverse effects to EFH in terms of habitat loss or alteration.

2) Construction disturbance

Sediment effects during construction work along Thayer Creek and three unnamed Class II
streams along the transmission corridor may negatively impact spawning salmon, cover redd
sites, or disturb rearing and foraging fish. Construction and operation of access roads,
overhead transmission lines, the power plant, and associated staging areas would require
permanent and temporary clearing of vegetation and ground-disturbing activities (including
culvert installation) that could potentially serve as sediment sources. These features, if placed
immediately adjacent to Thayer Creek or the unnamed creeks along the transmission
corridor, could degrade riparian habitat and increase the suspended sediment load. Potential
effects to EFH from riparian disturbance could also include reduced stream shading, litterfall,
and LWD recruitment.

The separation between the facilities and the creek and the application of Best Management
Practices (BMP’s) could prevent sedimentation in Thayer Creek. Compliance with BMP’s
would control sediment levels during construction of the power plant access road and the
proposed transmission line. Following installation the area would revegetate and, since the
road would be used only for line maintenance, sediment production would be minimal. The
potential for adverse effects to fish is very low.
Under Alternative 3 (buried cable), the transmission line along the power plant access and
maintenance roads would require additional ground disturbance with potential to introduce
sediment into streams. With an underground line, the minimum distance needed for
vegetation removal would decrease, but the amount of excavation work required for
installation would increase.

Since no overland transmission line or maintenance road from Kootznahoo Inlet to the
marine facility would be authorized under Alternative 4 there would be two fewer stream
crossings than in Alternative 2 or 3. There would remain a buried line and access road from
the power plant to the marine facility, which crosses only one Class II creek. The potential to
introduce sediment into fish-bearing streams (other than Thayer Creek), while low under
Alternatives 2 and 3, is mostly eliminated under Alternative 4.

3) Marine fishery disturbance

Construction and operation of the marine facilities and installation of submarine lines would
have minor effects on aquatic habitat. Construction of the temporary barge landing could
result in the alteration or loss of a small amount of beach and nearshore habitat. However,
based on the small area of disruption, the temporary nature of the facilities, and the planned
regrading and revegetation of the beach to a pre-project condition, these effects would not
affect aquatic life.

Aquatic resources would not be affected by the installation of two mooring buoys because of
the relatively small area they would occupy. Similarly, the laying of 4,600ft of submarine
lines on the bottom of Kootznahoo Inlet or the laying of 5 miles of submarine lines 600ft
deep in Chatham Strait would not affect nearshore, littoral, or benthic habitats. The amount
of space taken up by the lines relative to the habitat within Kootznahoo Inlet or Chatham
Strait would be minor. There should be no impacts to the occasional use of lower Thayer
Creek by salt-water species (flounder, sculpin, forage fish, etc.) as the flow regime in this
area will not be altered.

4) Avoiding outfall attractant flow

The water discharge structure at the power plant would be designed with a perched ledge and
a concrete pad or rip-rap to dissipate outfall energy and prevent fish from entering the
discharge structure. The outfall protection would decrease or prevent scouring and
downstream sedimentation. With these features, operation of the power plant and the
discharge of water would not kill or injure salmon or reduce their populations.

Conclusion:

Reduction of Thayer Creek flows and the loss of approximately 40% of the existing
anadromous fish habitat may adversely affect the EFH (under the Proposed Action).
Competition for habitat between individual fish may increase, although the lower 570ft of
Thayer Creek below the power plant discharge contains moderate-quality rearing and
spawning habitat, and natural hydrologic regimes would remain in this area. Therefore, the
proposed discharge alteration would likely cause a moderate reduction in anadromous fish
populations, primarily pink and chum salmon.

Timely implementation of instream activities will help limit impacts to both the freshwater
and saltwater fishery. Forest Service Standards and Guidelines, as well as BMP’s for
instream work will be followed to minimize disturbances.

Overall project effects on EFH appear to be relatively incremental and small due to the
limited affected area and the abundance of similar habitat types in adjacent areas. The
affected area does not contain unique habitat nor is considered to be limited in availability. In
the opinion of the Forest Service, EFH would not be impacted such that fishery sustainability
or ecosystem health would be impaired.

Alternative project actions to consider as mitigation:
1. Tailrace discharge shall be returned above or immediately below the lowest
anadromous fish barrier on Thayer Creek.
The requirement to discharge water from the power plant closer to the fish barrier would
significantly reduce or eliminate potential effects to anadromous fish and habitat below the
barrier described under Alternative 2 (Proposed Action).
2. All water not needed for power generation shall be returned to Thayer Creek at the
diversion dam and sent through the bypass reach.
Returning water not needed for power generation at the diversion dam will mimic more
natural flow regimes. Minimizing water withdrawal where feasible would be especially
important during low flow periods (Jan-Mar).
3. A minimum flow of 40 cfs should be maintained at all times to minimize icing
conditions and loss of stream continuity in the bypass reach.
An increase in the proposed minimum flow (from 20 cfs to 40 cfs) will decrease negative
effects from overwintering conditions. Additional flow will provide increased pool depth,
greater stream connectivity, and a decrease in harmful icing conditions for overwintering
fish.
4. The diversion dam access road will avoid the steep slopes along Thayer Creek
By requiring the diversion dam access road avoid the steep slopes along Thayer Creek the
potential for introducing sediment and debris into Thayer Creek from slope failures and road
surfaces is greatly reduced.
5. Require the dam to include a low gate feature to pass bedload during specified
windows of high flows (May-June and Sept-Oct).
Passing bedload that builds behind the diversion dam during high flow periods will minimize
concerns related to channel stability and fisheries.
6. Dispose of floating wood that accumulates behind the dam into the bypass reach
during high flows.
The downstream passage of floating wood that accumulates behind the diversion dam is also
critical to maintain natural stream functions. Large woody debris adds complexity to streams
and provides critical overwinter refugia for rearing salmonids.

3.6 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES - VEGETATION

This section describes the vegetation resources of the Angoon Hydroelectric Project area, as
well as the potential effects associated with the Proposed Action and alternatives.
Information in this section was drawn from the botany resource report, biological evaluation
of plants, and weed risk assessment.

Plant and animal species listed by the EPA as Threatened or Endangered under the
Endangered Species Act, as well as Forest Service, Region 10, sensitive species are discussed
separately in Section 3.9. Fish and wildlife species that provide subsistence resources are
addressed in Section 3.12.

 

3.6.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - VEGETATION

3.6.1.1 Affected Environment – Vegetation and Rare Plants

3.6.1.1 Affected Environment – Vegetation and Rare Plants

Plant communities in the project area include conifer forest, deciduous/spruce woodland,
scrub-shrub habitat, beach, forested wetlands, meadows, fens, and muskeg. Most vegetation
in the beach fringe is high-volume old-growth spruce-hemlock forest. Elsewhere in the
project area, common vegetation types include muskeg and old-growth forest in other
volume classes. Vegetation along Thayer Creek includes shrubby and open gravel bars, wet
meadow with ponds in an old oxbow, riparian vegetation, and forest edge. Beaches and
adjacent areas include sandy, gravelly, and rocky areas containing uplifted beach meadow;
and forest fringe.

Much of the forest along Thayer Creek, downstream of the proposed diversion dam, is on
steep slopes with a sparse understory, interspersed with shrubby gaps and patches of devil’s
club in seepy areas. Two large wet meadow areas occur along the road and transmission line
corridor between Thayer Creek and the marine facility proposed under Alternative 2. The
meadow nearest the stream had a few small western hemlock trees on mounds and thick, tall
shrubby areas among the dense herbaceous cover. The second meadow is more open and less
shrubby, with meandering wet trenches. The proposed route between the power plant and
Kootznahoo Inlet passes through forested areas that include patches of young second growth
resulting from wind throw, dense shrubs in gaps, and large areas with little or no understory.
Meadows, muskegs, and two small lakes are also present along this route.

The State of Alaska list of rare plants, with global and state rankings is used as general
guidance in determining which plants to address in a project level analysis. Although they
may be common elsewhere, plants on the Tongass are considered rare and of special interest
if they are known to be scarce on the forest or because limited information is available
concerning their distribution, and/or are ranked as rare plants in the state at S1 or S2 levels.
S1 plants are considered critically imperiled in state because of extreme rarity or because of
some factor(s) making it especially vulnerable to extirpation from the state. S2 plants are
considered imperiled in state because of rarity or because of some factor(s) making it very
vulnerable to extirpation from the state. Rankings of S3 – S5 designate progressively less
rare or vulnerable. The species of interest may vary depending on the location of the
proposed project. Management objectives for rare plants are to avoid, minimize or mitigate
adverse effects to rare plants and populations during project planning, such as considering
providing protection by avoiding known rare plant populations during project activities
(Forest Plan 2008, pg. 4-41).

Three species of rare plants were found in the project area. Rattlesnake grape fern
(Botrychium virginianum) and marsh bluegrass (Poa leptocoma) are ranked S2, imperiled in
the state because of rarity or because of some factor(s) making it very vulnerable to
extirpation from the state. Inland sedge (Carex interior) is ranked S1, critically imperiled in
the state because of extreme rarity or some factor(s) making it especially vulnerable to
extirpation from the state.

Three populations of rattlesnake grape fern were found in the meadows at the northern ends
of 2 small lakes near the road and transmission line corridor between marine facilities and
Stillwater Anchorage proposed under Alternatives 2 and 3. These widely dispersed plants
were growing in moist areas near the lakes in sites dominated by short sedge muskeg and
forested wetland/muskeg.
A small population of inland sedge inhabits the wetter portions of a large, sedge and herb
meadow east of the proposed dam access road route (Alts. 2, 3, and 4) above Thayer Creek.
This meadow developed in an abandoned beaver pond and is proposed as a primary spoils
disposal site.

Marsh bluegrass was found along the upper beach fringe of the small island near the marine
facilities proposed in the action alternatives (2, 3, & 4). Marsh bluegrass is usually found in
wet places along streams, in open subalpine to alpine ridges and meadows.

3.6.1.2 Affected Environment – Forest Wind Throw Potential

The loss of trees, singly or in groups to the effects of wind is the number one factor affecting
stand structure and development in southeast Alaska. Existing wind throw is an important
indicator of wind throw hazard as well as exposure to prevailing storm winds and proximity
to other wind generated stands.

In this project area, high wind throw hazard was generally determined to be in areas with
exposure to prevailing southeast winds. These are areas where high wind speed and
turbulence are likely to occur during storm events. Areas that are more topographically
sheltered from direct storm winds have less evidence of past wind damage and are rated
moderate to low for wind throw risk.

Wind throw potential in proximity to the proposed powerline and access road corridors was
determined to be low to moderate except within the northeast corner of Section 13 in
Township 50 S., Range 67 E. This corner of Section 13 contains a southeast oriented ridge
with existing nearby wind generated young growth forest. The proposed powerline location
appears to be well below the ridge through a small saddle and on the opposite side from the
existing wind generated stands. This location appears to be more topographically sheltered
and may minimize wind throw potential.

3.6.1.3 Affected Environment - Invasive Plant Species

Invasive species are defined as species that are non-native (also called alien or exotic) to the
habitat under consideration and 2) whose purposeful or accidental introduction causes, or is
likely to cause, economic or environmental harm or harm to human health (Executive Order
13112). Reduction of impacts from invasive species is second on the list of six goals in the
Forest Service Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2004 through 2008. Management objectives
for invasive species include prevention of introduction and spread; early detection and rapid
response; control and management; and rehabilitation and restoration (Tongass Forest Plan
2008, pg. 4-22). Invasive plants receive an invasiveness ranking designated by the Alaska
Natural Heritage Program (ANHP), with 100 being the highest. Forest Service Manual 2000
(chap. 2080) Supplement No. R10 TNF-2000-2007-1 offers new guidelines for invasive
species management. The supplement lists invasive plants that the Tongass is actively
controlling across the forest using the ANHP ranking project results. Some of these high
priority species are to be actively controlled where feasible. Others will be actively controlled
only in certain locations, such as wilderness. Invasive plants found on Admiralty National
Monument (ANM) are managed through the Invasive Plant Plan for ANM (Lerum 2005)
which prioritizes and plans inventories, control treatments, rehabilitation/restoration projects,
and monitoring.

Five non-native species were found in the project area in 2004.

• Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis),
• foxtail barley (Hordeum jubatum),
• common chickweed (Stellaria media),
• field mustard (Brassica rapa)
• common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

All five species were found on the small peninsula/island near the proposed marine facility.
Common chickweed was also found in the beach fringe just south of the mouth of Thayer
Creek. Of the five species, field mustard is the only high priority species and is one to be
actively controlled only in certain places. A subsequent visit in 2008 did not detect any field
mustard, Kentucky bluegrass, or common chickweed at the peninsula/island site. The
remaining infestations will be included in the Invasive Plant Plan for ANM (Lerum 2005) for
control and monitoring.

Kentucky bluegrass is usually found on disturbed sites and competes with native species,
changing the plant community composition and lowering its diversity. It spreads by seed and
rhizomes, has been used for roadside soil stabilization and is commonly used in lawns. It has
a moderate invasive ranking of 57.
Foxtail barley is ranked at 63 but is not on the Tongass high priority list. This species is
found on open ground, in meadows, waste places, roadsides, riparian areas, beaches and
other disturbed sites. Thick patches on beach open areas and in beach meadows are known at
the head of Hawk Inlet north of the project area. The long awns may cause sores around the
eyes, noses, throats, and ears of animals. There is currently disagreement on the nativity of
this species in Alaska.

Common chickweed, ranked as 52, is not considered high priority. Its favored habitats are
moist woodlands and uplands, usually in disturbed habitats. This annual plant reproduces by
head of Hawk Inlet.

Field mustard is not currently ranked. Over 60 infestations of this species are known on
southern Admiralty Island beaches. This plant is moderately salt tolerant and is adapted to
coarse to fine textured, fertile soils. It spreads by seeds, of which it produces large numbers.
Common dandelion (rank 62) is one of the most widespread non-native plant species in
North America. This plant is an early colonizer of disturbed areas, competes with native
plants for light, water, nutrients, and pollinators, and may moderately impact natural
succession. Common dandelion is so well established across the Tongass and impossible to
eradicate, that it is not a high priority for control. It may, however, be treated if in small
isolated populations in vulnerable areas such as wilderness.

3.6.2 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS ON VEGETATION

Table 3-7 summarizes the effects to vegetation by area affected.

Table 3-7. Potential Effects of the Angoon Hydroelectric Project on Vegetation

¹ Acreages are approximate.
² It is assumed that vegetation will be eliminated for at least the life of the project in these footprints.
Dam impoundment area may vary between 10 and 20 acres; road prisms 30 feet wide.
³ It is assumed that vegetation will be destroyed during the construction phase in staging areas and
camp facilities, but will be re-vegetated naturally or artificially after construction.

3.6.2.1 Effects – Vegetation and Rare Plants

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

No effects are expected because a hydroelectric project will not be built.

ALTERNATIVES 2 (PROPOSED ACTION)

Implementation of nearly all project components would require some clearing of existing
vegetation. Permanent removal of vegetation would occur in the following areas:

• (1) within the footprint of the power plant (less than 0.5 acre);
• (2) for the garage at the marine facilities (large enough to house a pickup and
small backhoe);
• (3) within road prisms (28.1 acres)
• (4) in the water impoundment behind the diversion dam (10 to 20 acres).

Vegetation clearing for two construction staging areas (6 acres each) and a spoils disposal
area (3 acres) would be permanent during construction. The staging sites would be reclaimed
and re-vegetated if not needed for equipment and material storage following construction.

Additional effects on vegetation would occur in the cleared corridors for the access road /
transmission lines right-of-way. Except for the road prism itself, effects in these areas would
consist largely of changing the existing vegetation type from forest to shrub-dominated
communities. The corridor clearing width would vary along the route but would be
approximately one tree-height (up to 100 feet) on either side of the transmission line to
protect the line from wind throw. The total amount of clearing cannot be determined until
final layout and design of the transmission line. Rare plants were found inhabiting wet
meadows adjacent to the road corridor between marine facilities and Stillwater Anchorage.
Road construction may alter hydrologic processes that would adversely change habitat
conditions for these plants.

The average clearing width for the access road between the powerhouse and the dam would
be 50 feet since no transmission line is included. Adjacent to this road corridor rare plants
were found inhabiting a wet meadow, part of which was proposed as a spoils disposal site.
Spoils disposal on top of the rare plants would crush and bury individual plants and possibly
extirpate the population in the meadow.

The feasibility evaluation report (HDR Alaska 2000) noted that few trees would probably
need to be cut along the pipeline route between the diversion dam and the power plant.
Instead, the pipeline would be routed between trees and secured to the ground by a system of
nylon straps and galvanized steel lines. Pipeline installation would crush, trample, or uproot
vegetation for the current growing season. Shade from the pipeline may inhibit or prevent
plant growth by occupying the space otherwise available for plants or by shading the plants.
Vegetation changes both upstream and downstream of the dam would have the indirect effect
of modifying the hydrology. Plant species adapted to greater soil moisture and occasional
inundation would become established in areas adjacent to water impounded above the dam.
Downstream, riparian vegetation would change in response to decreased water availability.

ALTERNATIVE 3 (BURIED TRANSMISSION LINE)

Essentially effects would be the same as for Alternative 2. The change in road routes between
dam and powerhouse, and powerhouse and marine facilities would have similar effects to
vegetation as Alternative 2 routes. Effects to rare plants between powerhouse and dam, and
between marine facilities and Stillwater Anchorage would be similar to those of Alternative
2. Although the transmission line would be buried where feasible, there would still be an
access/maintenance road. The clearance width, however, may be narrower along buried
sections and therefore effects would be reduced in those sections.

ALTERNATIVE 4 (SUBMERGED TRANSMISSION LINE)

Effects on vegetation and rare plants would be the same as Alternative 3 for the activities
between the dam and marine facility. An additional footprint area for the substation structure
at the marine facility would eliminate vegetation but not affect rare plants. There would be no
effects to vegetation or rare plants between the marine facility and Stillwater Anchorage
because there will not be a road or transmission line.

3.6.2.2 Effects – Forest Wind Throw Potential

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

No effects on the forest and wind throw are expected from project activities because a

hydroelectric project would not be built.

ALTERNATIVE 2 (PROPOSED ACTION)

Wind throw risk was evaluated based on aerial photo interpretation and GIS analysis for the
overhead powerlines and access road corridors (assuming a total clearing width of up to 200
feet) considering prevailing wind direction, topography and the proximity to other wind
generated stands.

Overall wind throw risk was determined to be low to moderate based on the orientation of the
cleared corridors in relation to prevailing storm winds and topographical features. Exposed
edges adjacent to the resulting corridors would be expected to have an increased risk of wind
throw in the form of individual or small groups of trees the first few years following clearing.
Over time trees along these exposed edges will develop greater windfirmness.

Depending on the actual on-the-ground location of the powerline corridor that travels through
the northeast corner of Section 13, in relation to the adjacent southeast running ridge, it may
be subject to higher wind throw risk and thus the likelihood of many blown-down trees. This
section of powerline corridor may warrant additional on-site evaluation prior to clearing to
insure it is located below the ridge with minimal southeast exposure to avoid a wind tunnel
effect and substantially reduce wind throw potential.

ALTERNATIVES 3 AND 4

Alternatives 3 and 4 propose an underground powerline with a corridor clearing width of 46-
70 feet. Effects to windthrow risk would be minimal since the corridor is narrower (in
Alternative 3) and avoids the higher windthrow risk area completely in Alternative 4. Wind
throw risk in Alternative 4 would be the lowest of the action alternatives, but slightly greater
than the no action alternative.

3.6.2.3 Effects – Invasive Plant Species

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

No effects on invasive plant species are expected from project activities because a
hydroelectric project would not be built. Existing populations of invasive plants are not
expected to spread into undisturbed areas.

ALTERNATIVE 2 (PROPOSED ACTION)

Small infestations of five invasive species were found on a small island/peninsula near the
marine facility site, and one at the mouth of Thayer Creek. Three of the five on the island
have since disappeared. Since no project activity is proposed near the sites, the remaining
populations are not expected to be to be spread by those activities.

All action alternatives require that equipment be washed prior to mobilization to the project
area to minimize the potential for introducing invasive plants. Some potential still exists that
construction equipment could still be contaminated with seeds and other parts of invasive
weed species. If established, invasive plant species may crowd out native species, be
unpalatable or injurious to native wildlife, and decrease native plant species diversity in the
project area. Monitoring for new introductions and control of high priority infestations will
be conducted by the proponent and should be effective to minimize the potential for
introducing and spreading invasive plants.

ALTERNATIVE 3 (BURIED TRANSMISSION LINE)

The potential to introduce invasive species would be similar for Alternative 2 and 3.
Although the transmission line would be buried where feasible under Alternative 3, both
alternatives include a similar access/maintenance road along the same corridor.

ALTERNATIVE 4 (SUBMERGED TRANSMISSION LINE)

The potential to introduce invasive species would be similar for Alternative 2, 3 and 4
between the dam and marine facility. There would be no potential to introduce
invasive species between the marine facility and Stillwater Anchorage because there
would not be a road or transmission line.

3.7 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES - WETLANDS

This section describes the wetland resources of the Angoon Hydroelectric Project area, as
well as the potential effects associated with the Proposed Action and alternatives.
Information in this section was drawn from the soils and wetlands, and supplemental soil,
geologic, and wetland information resource reports.

3.7.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - WETLANDS

Wetlands are defined as: "those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or
groundwater with a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal
circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated
soil conditions" (40 CFR 230.41(a)(1)). Identification of wetlands is based on the Corps of
Engineers three-parameter system described in U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetlands
Delineation Manual (WTI 1995). Wetlands are identified as areas having hydric soils,
hydrophytic vegetation, and wetland hydrology.

Wetlands provide various ecological functions, including surface flow and groundwater
regulation, sediment retention, nutrient storage, and temperature moderation. They provide
terrestrial, aquatic and marine wildlife habitats, biological diversity, and wood fiber.
Wetland areas also provide socio-economic benefits, which include areas for wildlife
viewing, hunting and recreation, habitat for commercial fishing (salmon) stocks,
development sites (such as buildings and roads), community water supplies, and timber
harvesting.

Five broad types of wetland types based on wetland habitats as mapped in the Ketchikan
Area Soil Survey (see Table 3-8 below and maps in the Road Cards, Appendix B) and five
categories using the national Wetland Inventory Mapping Convention occur in the analysis
area. These wetlands have different soil and vegetative communities, occupy different
landscape positions, and have somewhat different functions and values. Table 3-8 includes
existing lengths of wetlands on the proposed road and transmission line corridors. For
definitions and functions of the various wetlands, refer to the Soil and Wetland Resource
Report and Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United Stated
(Cowardin et al. 1979). Also included in the Resource Report are wetland maps of the area
and field data sheets.

Tall Sedge Fens are the high value wetlands within the larger overall landscape that are also
present within the wetland mapping extent

3.7.1.1 Effects – Wetlands

The road alignment displayed in Alternative 2 was provided by Kootznoowoo as part of their
Selected Project Arrangement. Following publication of the DEIS additional field studies
were completed by Forest Service specialists to better define the road corridors and collect
supplementary resource data. Based on this field data, portions of the road segments from
the marine facilities to the powerhouse and from the powerhouse to the diversion dam were
modified in Alternatives 3 and 4 to reflect terms and conditions required to avoid steep
slopes and karst terrain. The road segment from the marine facility to Kootznahoo Inlet is
the same in Alternatives 2 and 3 and not present in Alternative 4.

Table 3-8. Existing Wetland Condition, Road Effects on Wetlands, and Avoidance of
Steep Slopes and Wetlands

Source: D. Silkworth, GIS, 2008
1 Includes wetland types Forested Wetland and the Forested Wetland portion of Forested
Wetland/Upland Mosaic (50%).
2 Field estimates used for slopes over 67%. Estimates do not include an approximate1000 feet of
road on slopes over 67% slope located approximately 1 mile south of the marine facility.

Wetland effects are displayed above as linear feet of roads located on each wetland type and
as a percentage of the total road length. The table also includes data from a wide corridor
extending 300 yards either side of the proposed road alignments to display the average
existing wetland distribution along the alignment. A comparison of the linear distribution of
affected wetlands types versus the general distribution of wetland types in the corridor
demonstrates the relative success of attempts to avoid important wetland types in each
alternative.

Management objectives for wetlands are to avoid the alteration of, or new construction in
wetlands, wherever there is a practicable, environmentally preferred alternative considering
the functions of wetlands as well as other non-wetland ecosystem in the project area (Forest
Plan 2008, pg 4-88). Management activities try to maintain the natural and beneficial
wetland values and functions, and avoid adverse impacts and the loss of high value wetlands,
especially fens (Forest Plan 2008, pg 4-88).

Kootznoowoo must acquire an Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Section 404 permit
under the Clean Water Act to dredge or fill in a wetland. USACOE guidelines state that no
discharge of dredged or fill material shall be permitted in wetlands if there is a practicable
alternative to the proposed discharge which would have less adverse impact. They presume
that practicable alternatives exist unless clearly demonstrated otherwise. Where it is
necessary to cross wetlands, roads must be of the minimum length and width necessary to
achieve their purpose. Roads would also be designed to prevent restriction of flood flows and
the disruption of aquatic species migration or movement (BMP 12.5 – Wetland
Identification, Evaluation, and Protection). Other BMPs, for example 14.2 – Location of
Transportation Facilities, and 14.3 – Design of Transportation Facilities, would be applied to
minimize the disruption of wetland function and value

Classified roads typically include a road surface approximately 14-foot wide and a roadside
ditch and/or fill-slope varying in width based on slope, topography, soil type, and drainage.
In general, the area of direct soil disturbance would average 35-40 feet, including clearing

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

Since no development would occur under the No Action alternative natural processes would
continue to control wetland development in the project area.

ALTERNATIVE 2, 3, AND 4

There would be a permanent loss of wetlands within road prisms and at construction sites,
e.g., power plant, port facilities. However, as indicated in the table above, roads under all
action alternatives would be built on proportionally fewer Scrub-Shrub/Short Sedge/
Muskegs, Tall Sedge Fens, and Lakes and Ponds wetlands than are naturally present along
the corridor. Tall Sedge Fens are considered the high value wetlands present along the
corridor. Scrub-Shrub/Short Sedge/ Muskegs are less common than Forested Wetlands (2.9
vs 14.7%) within the 600-yard wide road corridor, and consequently are somewhat more
valuable for diversity reasons.

Nevertheless, Forested Wetlands are impacted proportionately higher by the road than their
natural occurrence within the 600–yard wide corridor. Forested Wetlands are the hardest
wetland type to avoid since they often exist at the base of steep slopes and often surround

Tall Sedge Fens and Scrub-Shrub/Short Sedge/ Muskegs. Avoiding these wetland types
often requires that roads be located on Forested Wetlands.
Several potential effects are associated with the construction and operation of the diversion
dam. The 10-foot high dam would impound stream flow and form a 10 to 20-acre pond. The
pond would flood tall sedge fens, shrub/scrub, and forested wetlands. Similar wetland
communities may develop adjacent to the pond, and vegetation species changes to more
saturated conditions would be expected. Below the dam, species adapted to drier soil
condition would encroach into the current riparian zone as stream volume decreases,
especially during the growing season.
All action alternatives propose staging areas and a powerhouse. These project components
are proposed be built on land that is approximately 5% Tall Sedge Fens and 27% other
wetlands (Forested Wetlands).

Road construction and spoil disposal cover vegetation with rock and soil and cause the
permanent loss of wetlands covered by the road prism and subtle changes in vegetation for
distances of up to 20 feet on the downhill side of the road. The introduction of fill material
for road construction may affect surface or subsurface hydrology. In some cases, ponding
may occur on the upstream side of the road bed; in others, side ditches or coarse fill may act
as a conduit, reducing saturation of soils in the vicinity of the roadway. McGee (2000) found
that drainage ditches collect and divert overland flow and shallow subsurface flow to the
nearest stream channel, and do not greatly reduce soil wetness adjacent to the road prism.
These and other effects may influence wetland vegetation in the vicinity of road corridors.

3.8 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES – BIODIVERSITY AND WILDLIFE

This section describes the wildlife resources of the Angoon Hydroelectric Project area, and
the potential effects associated with the proposed alternatives. Information in this section
comes from the wildlife resource reports.

Threatened or Endangered animal species as well as Forest Service, Region 10 sensitive
species are addressed separately in Sections 3.9 (and 3.5 for Fish); fish and wildlife species
that provide subsistence resources are addressed in Section 3.5 and 3.12.

3.8.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT – BIODIVERSITY AND WILDLIFE

The analysis area for wildlife is defined as the two Wildlife Analysis Areas (WAA; 4042,
4054) that incorporate the project area. WAA are geographical areas defined by Alaska
Department of Fish and Game (ADFG) to monitor and manage wildlife populations. The
Analysis Area includes approximately 126,920 acres.

Old-growth habitat may be characterized by the amount of productive old-growth (POG) that
is present. POG is defined as having a timber volume of greater than 8,000 board feet per
acre (Forest Plan p. 7-29) which corresponds to low, medium, and high volume strata. POG
generally provides important cover and forage habitat for wildlife because the dense canopy
reduces snow accumulations in the understory during the winter but is open enough to
provide understory vegetation during the spring, summer and fall.
Currently, an estimated 92% (116,737 acres) of the analysis area is classified as forested. An
estimated 14% (17,346 acres) of the total area and 15% of the forested area is classified as
volume class 6 and 7. Approximately half of the forested area is classified as high volume
strata.

Forest types are predominantly western hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) and mixed
hemlock/Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) but there are stands of Sitka spruce, mountain
hemlock (Tsuga mertensiana), red alder (Alnus rubra), and black cottonwood (Populus
balsamifera trichocarpa).

Much of this analysis was conducted using Tongass National Forest GIS databases. Effects
to species are generally shown as acres of suitable habitat impacted and the potential for
disturbance. The impacted acreage is compared to that available within the analysis area and
relative to the other alternatives. In general, impacts to habitat are assumed to be long-term
(i.e., life of project, greater than 10 years) while disturbances are expected to be short-term
(i.e., during construction, one to five years) or sporadic (maintenance).

3.8.1.1 Affected Environment - Management Indicator Species

National Forest Management Act (NFMA) regulations require that fish and wildlife habitats
be managed to maintain viable populations of species well distributed across the National
Forest. Population viability is defined as a fish or wildlife population that has the estimated
number and distribution of reproductive individuals to insure its continued existence is well
distributed in the planning area (36 CFR 219 and USDA FS 2008a). Analysis of impacts to
Management Indicator Species (MIS) is one way to address this direction. MIS are wildlife
species whose responses to land management activities are thought to reflect the likely
responses of other species with similar habitat requirements (USDA FS 2008b). Under the
MIS concept, the responses to management activities of a relatively few species are studied
and monitored in an effort to ascertain the impacts to entire assemblages of species and
associated habitats.

Thirteen MIS have been identified for the Tongass National Forest (USDA Forest Service
2008b). Three MIS (black bear, wolf, and mountain goat) do not occur on Admiralty Island
(MacDonald and Cook 2007, p. 71, 76, and 104) and are not addressed in this discussion.
Minimal impact is expected to the Vancouver Canada goose so it is not included here, but the
analysis can be reviewed in the project MIS report.

Bald Eagle: Most bald eagles in southeast Alaska nest in coniferous forest habitats along the
coastline and associated saltwater inlets, but may also nest along rivers and lakes (Sidle et al.
1986). Trees selected for nesting are usually among the largest in the stand, provide an
unobstructed view of the water, have large limbs, and often have bushy, broken, or deformed
tops. Over 90 percent of nests are within 300 feet of the shoreline (Hodges and Robards 1982
in Sidle et al. 1986).

Perching sites are important components of nesting habitat. Tall trees with open crowns,
snags, trees with exposed lateral limbs, or trees with dead tops provide perching sites.
Perching sites are used to scan for food, protect their nests from avian predators, eating,
mating displays, and to signal territory occupation.

Bald eagle populations in southeast Alaska appear to have stabilized since the early 1980s
(Jacobson and Hodges 1999, Schempf 2008). Bald eagles are present year-round in the
analysis area. The Tongass NF GIS database shows 99 historic bald eagle nests in the
analysis area. A survey conducted for this project by the US Fish and Wildlife Service
(FWS) found an additional eight nests in the vicinity of the project, although the Stillwater
Anchorage area across from Angoon was not surveyed (M. Jacobson 2006). This survey
found only one of the historic nests within the surveyed section. The survey was done in
October so there was no indication whether they had been used for nesting that year or not.
Based on a GIS analysis, two of the new nests are within 330 feet of a project feature
(building, road/transmission line and associated clearing, etc) and all eight are within ½ mile
of a project feature. Two historic nests are within 330 feet of project features and eight are
within ½ mile.

Brown Bear: Although brown bears will use a diversity of habitats, brown bears studied on
Chichagof Island primarily selected for estuary and closed forested riparian habitats (Schoen
and Beier 1990, p. 18; Flynn et al. 2007, p. 18 - 19). The late summer season has been
identified as the most critical or limiting period for brown bear. Bears concentrate along
low-elevation coastal salmon streams from mid July through early September. Salmon are an
important food source for accumulation of energy reserves to sustain bears over-wintering in
dens. During this late summer season, bears typically use riparian forest habitat or forested
streams associated with anadromous fish runs (Schoen and Beier 1990). Bears use this
habitat for fishing along river banks, for foraging on succulent vegetation and berries, and for
security and thermal cover.

Winter denning begins in October and November. Mean elevation and slope of 121 den sites
of radio-collared bears from Admiralty and Chichagof islands were 2100 ft and 35 degrees
(Schoen et al. 1987). Fifty-two percent of those dens occurred in old-growth forest habitat.
Though cave denning was common on Admiralty Island, many dens were excavated under
large-diameter old-growth trees or into the bases of large snags (Schoen et al. 1987).

Roads are detrimental to bears because they increase opportunities for human - bear
interactions. Roads provide easier access and bring increases in human activity, which may
result in increased disturbance and direct human-induced deaths of bears through increased
legal hunting, illegal kills, wounding losses, and from defense of life and property. Roads
vary in their impact to bears. Arterial and collector roads accessible to vehicles have greater
impacts on bears than local roads and roads closed to vehicular traffic. Roads closed
administratively (e.g., with gates or excavated pits) are likely to still have some level of offroad
vehicle traffic. All roads, regardless of closure, still have the potential for supporting
additional human foot traffic which also influences bear populations. There are no existing
roads in the analysis area except for roads in the town of Angoon.

There is suitable habitat throughout the project area. During field review of the project, bear
sign was regularly seen but was most prevalent around the lower (anadromous) section of
Thayer Creek, where there is an extensive trail network as well as day bedding sites. This
lower section of Thayer Creek is the only anadromous fish reach within the footprint of the
project.

Admiralty Island is within Game Management Unit (GMU) 4, which encompasses
Admiralty, Baranof, and Chichagof islands, and includes one of the highest concentrations of
brown bears in the world (ADFG 2000, p. 1). Unit 4 brown bear populations are stable or
slightly increasing (Mooney 2007a, p. 23). The most recent population estimate for
Admiralty Island is 1560 bears (Mooney 2007a, p. 24). Nineteen bears have been reported
harvested in the analysis area in the last 10 years (Scott 2008). Only two of those were
reported to have been taken in the minor harvest units affected by the project.

Marten: Habitat requirements for marten reflect a strong interaction between food, cover,
climate, and predation, with forest cover being particularly important for travel, denning and
resting sites, hunting, and avoiding predation and inclement weather (Flynn et al. 2004). In
southeast Alaska, marten depend on POG forests because they intercept snow, provide cover
and denning sites, and provide habitat for prey species used by marten. An estimated 70%
(89,143 acres) of the analysis area (126,910 acres) is characterized by POG habitat. Due to
lower snow accumulation, habitats at lower elevations have higher value for wintering
marten. Coastal habitats (beach fringe) and riparian areas have the highest value, followed
by upland habitats below 1,500 feet in elevation. Approximately 94% (76,658 acres) of the
POG occurs below 1,500 feet elevation and 15,510 acres (17%) of POG occur within riparian
management areas and the beach fringe. High value marten habitat is defined as high volume
strata old-growth stands below 1500 feet in elevation. There are an estimated 52,504 acres of
high-value marten habitat in the analysis area.

Roads reduce habitat value by providing human access which may result in increased
harvests of marten. Marten are easily trapped and can be over harvested (Quick 1956,
Hodgman et al. 1994). Trapping pressure may be higher along roads connected to major
communities. There are no existing roads in the analysis area except for roads in the town of
Angoon.

The ADFG currently permits unlimited trapping of marten in the analysis area (GMU 4) from
December 1 to February 15. Trapping efforts fluctuate year-to-year depending on fur prices,
fuel prices, winter weather conditions, the current economy, and marten populations.
Between the 2001-2002 and 2005-2006 seasons, annual harvest from GMU 4 was 1405
marten. Fifty-six marten were reported harvested within the analysis area in the last ten
years. All were from the two minor harvest units adjacent to Angoon and none were from
the Thayer Creek drainage.

Sitka Black-tailed Deer: Deer are an important subsistence and general (sport) harvest
species. The harvest of deer is addressed in the Subsistence Report.

The quantity, quality, distribution, and arrangement of winter habitat is considered the most
limiting factor for deer in southeast Alaska (USDA FS 2008b, p. 230). Low-elevation, highvolume
POG habitats are particularly important to deer, especially during severe winters
(Doerr et al. 2005, Hanley and Rose 1987, Kirchhoff and Schoen 1987). These mature oldgrowth
stands intercept snow, provide thermal cover, and support the largest biomass of herb
and shrub forage for deer (Alaback 1982, Hanley and McKendrick 1985). The TNF GIS
database estimates that there are 53,491 acres of POG below 800 feet elevation within the
analysis area. Of these, 18,854 acres are high volume strata on south and west aspects, the
most valuable winter habitat. Deer and their sign (tracks, pellet groups) were noted during
field review of the project area.

Construction of roads fundamentally changed the way deer are harvested in southeast Alaska
(Mazza 2003). This can increase harvest by increasing efficiency, and opening previously
unharvested areas up to hunting pressure.

Cavity dependent MIS (brown creeper, hairy woodpecker, red-breasted sapsucker, red
squirrel): Brown creepers, hairy woodpeckers, red-breasted sapsuckers, and red squirrels
nest or den in tree cavities in southeast Alaska. These species depend on cavities in the
large-diameter snags characteristic of productive old growth stands. Degradation of habitat
via the harvesting of large, live trees, salvage-logging practices that remove dead or dying
trees, and the increasing fragmentation of forests are threats to these species. Edge
sensitivity may be responsible for the sensitivity of brown creepers to forest fragmentation.
The brown creeper, hairy woodpecker, and sapsucker rely on productive old growth forest
habitat for nesting and foraging. The brown creeper is associated with high volume stands
that include large-diameter, old trees that provide abundant prey. Sapsuckers will use a more
open, low volume, productive old-growth. The hairy woodpecker and sapsucker are primary
cavity excavators that use snags and partially dead trees for nesting and foraging. The
availability of suitable habitat for roosting and foraging is an important constraint on the
habitat suitability for these species. Spruce trees and mature old growth forest have the
highest values for red squirrel habitat because of the cone-producing qualities and cavities in
trees and snags. Productive old-growth forests provide the best snag habitat over the longterm.

Brown creepers, hairy woodpeckers, red-breasted sapsuckers, and red squirrels were all
observed during field surveys in 2007 and 2008.

River Otter: Habitat selection by river otters appears to be related to the availability of food
resources and adequate cover (Larsen 1983; Woolington 1984). Old-growth forests have the
highest habitat value, providing canopy cover, large-diameter trees and snags, and burrow
and den sites.

Throughout most of the year the majority of river otter activity occurs within 100 feet of the
shoreline (Larsen 1983; Woolington 1984). However, from May through July female river
otters use inland habitats generally within 0.5 mile of the coastline as natal denning sites
(Woolington 1984). Natal dens occurred on well drained sites near streams in old growth
habitats. Stream courses were used as travel corridors between natal den sites and foraging
areas on the coastline.

During the period 1995–2002, river otter populations apparently increased slightly, to
moderate levels, and populations appear to be stable (Mooney 2007b). Forty-three river otters
were reported harvested within the analysis area in the last ten years. All were from the two
minor harvest units adjacent to Angoon and none were from the Thayer Creek drainage.

One river otter was observed during field surveys in 2004, although sign was common.
Suitable habitat is abundant in the analysis area.

3.8.1.2 Affected Environment - Migratory Birds

Neotropical migratory birds (referred to as migratory birds) are far ranging species that
require a diversity of habitat for foraging, breeding, and wintering. Over 100 species of birds
migrate from the lower forty-eight states, Central and South America, to nesting, breeding,
and rearing grounds in Alaska. Most of the birds fly to the interior or northern Alaska and
only pass through Southeast Alaska on their way to the breeding grounds. However, some
breed in the project area.

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (amended in 1936 and 1972) prohibits the taking of
migratory birds, unless authorized by the Secretary of Interior. Executive Order 13186
(Responsibilities of Federal Agencies to Protect Migratory Birds) provides for the
conservation of migratory birds and their habitats and requires the evaluation of the effects of
Federal actions on migratory birds, with an emphasis on species of concern. Federal agencies
are required to support the intent of the migratory bird conventions by integrating bird
conservation principles, measures, and practices into agency activities and by avoiding or
minimizing, to the extent practicable, adverse impacts on migratory birds when conducting
agency actions.

Of the 37 migratory birds and birds of conservation concern potentially found on the Tongass
National Forest, 14 use hemlock/spruce/cedar forest as primary habitat for known or
probable breeding. Another eight species use spruce/hemlock/cedar forest as secondary
habitat (Tongass National Forest MBTA list). Three species use shrub thickets as primary
nesting habitat. The other species use habitats that are not found the project area or that will
not be affected by project activities. Most of the hemlock/spruce/cedar nesting species (11 of
14) are considered common or abundant, while only one of the shrub nesting species is
considered common. Species on the list verified as occurring in the analysis area during field
surveys include: chestnut-backed chickadee, golden-crowned kinglet, varied thrush, redbreasted
sapsucker, northwestern crow, Pacific-slope flycatcher, Steller's jay, Townsend's
warbler, and rufous hummingbird. In addition, breeding bird surveys at Hawk Inlet on

Admiralty Island have also detected blue grouse, marbled murrelet, and western wood
pewee. Red-breasted sapsuckers are addressed in more detail above under MIS.

3.8.2 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS ON WILDLIFE

3.8.2.1 Effects - Management Indicator Species

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

Implementing alternative 1 would cause no direct effects to any MIS. There is a slightly
higher risk of a fuel oil spill in the vicinity due to Angoon’s reliance on fuel oil for electric
generation under this alternative. A spill could result in direct mortality to individuals and/or
eggs of species such as eagles, otters, and migratory species that use beach areas (e.g.,
northwestern crows) as well as sublethal effects such as increased contaminants loads from
foraging on contaminated prey. A spill could affect salmon, other fish, and invertebrate prey
populations for several years.

ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, AND 4

Angoon will still receive petroleum fuel deliveries under the action alternatives for home
heating, vehicle fuels, and back-up electricity generation. However, the probability of a spill
will be reduced compared to the no action alternative. If a spill were to occur the effects
would be the same.

All action alternatives would result in a small loss (less than 1%) of potential habitat. Of the
action alternatives, Alternative 4 would have the least impact on MIS because it affects the
least POG and foraging habitat (both vegetative and anadromous fish habitat), and provides
the least access improvement. Alternative 2 would have the greatest effect on MIS because
of, mainly, its larger acreage of forest habitat converted for transmission line clearing.
Thayer Creek provides a vertical migration corridor for brown bears and deer and the 42 inch
pipe paralleling the creek could present a barrier to bears and deer, particularly cubs and
fawns. Although adult animals could cross over the 42-inch diameter pipe, young animals
would have a more difficult time getting over it. Considering the steep ground it will be
traversing, even adults may have to be selective about where they cross over or under the
pipeline. Pipeline effects would be the same for all alternatives. The greatest impact to bears
is the development of facilities in the Thayer Creek riparian area, which is the same between
Alternatives 2, 3, and 4. However, implementation of terms and conditions such as the
timing and nest buffer measures for eagles or development of measures to control hunting
would minimize direct and indirect effects to MIS. Under all action alternatives, a slight
decrease in breeding densities of cavity dependent MIS could occur in the immediate vicinity
of the project but would not be detectable at the scale of the analysis area. All alternatives
would be consistent with the Forest Plan conservation strategy and would be expected to
maintain viable, well dispersed populations of bald eagle, brown bear, marten, Sitka blacktailed
deer, cavity dependent MIS, and river otters.

ALTERNATIVE 2 (PROPOSED ACTION)

Bald eagle: Approximately 57 acres of POG forest habitat within the beach fringe (0.6% of
total acres of beach fringe POG in the analysis area) would be converted to non-forest with a
concurrent loss of suitable nesting, perching, and roosting habitat. Five known nests could
be affected by roads/transmission lines and associated forest clearing within the 330 foot nest
buffer. These nests and the project components will need to be ground verified at the time of
construction. If they can not be avoided the project proponent will need to work with the
FWS to obtain a variance for working within the nest buffer. Direct effects would include
disturbance during construction activities and loss of habitat within the nest buffer including
perching trees and suitable nest trees. To mitigate the possibility of nest abandonment, no
project related activities would be allowed within the 330 foot buffer when nests are active.
There are an estimated 13 known current or historic nests within ½ mile of project
components for which timing restrictions on blasting may need to be implemented. Blasting
within ½ mile is possible with concurrence of the FWS based on specific site conditions.
The activity status of the nest and suitable site conditions would need to be field verified by
the proponent and FWS. These conditions should avoid direct impacts to these nests caused
by blasting activities.

Although the APLIC standards and design recommendations (APLIC 2006) for construction
of the line to reduce the likelihood of eagles (and other raptors) being killed or injured by
collision or electrocution would be required, there would still be some risk associated with
Alternative 2 above that for Alternatives 3 and 4 where the line is buried or submerged.

Brown bear: Less than one percent (143 acres) of the POG in the analysis area will be lost.
POG provides denning habitat for brown bears. However, Schoen et al. (1987) found that
while bears on Admiralty Island may den at almost any elevation; the average den elevation
was 2100 feet. The project occurs at or below 500 feet, so no substantial effects to denning
habitat are expected. Much of the POG along the transmission line would be converted to
brush which could improve berry production and foraging opportunities for bears.

This alternative would remove some high quality riparian POG and increase human access.
During construction, bears foraging on salmon could be displaced. As part of the Special
Use Permit (SUP) stipulations, the project proponent would need to follow Forest Plan
Standards and Guidelines for bears to reduce the likelihood of bear/human interactions. The
main disturbance and human interaction concerns are during construction. Bears most likely
will adapt to the noise and presence of the powerhouse and associated facilities after
construction is completed.

This alternative would construct 7.6 miles of permanent roads which would improve human
access to the area. To reduce impacts to brown bears and other harvested species, the SUP
authorization will include a requirement that the project proponent install effective road
closure devices to ensure that the roads are closed to motorized traffic except what is
necessary for operation and maintenance of the project. However, the roads will be open to
foot traffic. This would improve human access to Thayer Creek for activities such as bear
watching and hunting, thus increasing the likelihood of bear/human interactions. Either
activity would stress bears and reduce or modify their use of this foraging area.

Thayer Creek provides a vertical migration corridor for brown bears and the 42 inch pipe
paralleling the creek could present a barrier to bears, particularly cubs. Pipeline effects
would be the same for all alternatives.

Changing the flow regime in Thayer Creek could affect bears by changing the distribution
and productivity of salmon. The location of the power plant discharge for Alternative 2 is
expected to result in dewatering 300 – 450 feet of lower Thayer Creek or up to 40% of the
anadromous fish spawning habitat during low flows (Schneider 2008). It is unknown what
effect this would have on the fish population in Thayer Creek. This dewatering would occur
during December through March, which would kill fish eggs and alevins. Dewatering would
not occur during the summer when bears would be foraging, so it is unlikely to change bear
foraging habitat, i.e., fish distribution during spawning.

Marten: POG provides suitable denning and foraging habitat for marten. Approximately
143 acres, or less than one percent, of the POG in the analysis area will be converted to
unsuitable habitat by implementing Alternative 2.
Roads can increase access for trapping. The southern terminus at Stillwater Anchorage in
Kootznahoo Inlet is approximately 0.8 miles from the Angoon boat ramp. To reduce impacts
to marten and other harvested species, the SUP authorization will include a requirement that
the project proponent install effective road closure devices to ensure that the roads are closed
to motorized traffic except what is necessary for operation and maintenance of the project.
Although the roads would improve access for foot traffic, it is unlikely that this would lead to
a substantial increase in trapping effort.

Localized disturbances during construction could temporarily displace some marten.

Sitka black-tailed deer: Loss of winter habitat is the primary impact to deer. Under
Alternative 2, 143 acres of POG would be lost. All of it is under 800 feet elevation. This is
0.3 percent of the POG under 800 feet elevation in the analysis area.

This alternative would construct 7.6 miles of roads which would improve human access to
the area for deer hunting. To reduce impacts to deer and other harvested species, the SUP
authorization will include a requirement that the project proponent install effective road
closure devices to ensure that the roads are closed to motorized traffic except what is
necessary for operation and maintenance of the project. However, the roads will be open to
foot traffic.

Thayer Creek provides a vertical migration corridor for deer and the 42 inch pipe paralleling
the creek could present a barrier, particularly to fawns.

Cavity dependent MIS: Cavity dependent MIS would be primarily affected by loss of POG
nesting and foraging habitat and potential loss of active nests during construction.
Alternative 2 would result in the long-term conversion of 143 acres of POG to non-suitable
habitat. Brown creepers avoid edges so in addition to the acres cleared; there would be
additional acres that would become unsuitable due to edge effects. Alternative 2 would
create up to 15.2 miles of new forest edge (7.6 road miles times two). Under Alternative 2, a
slight decrease in breeding density could occur, because acres of suitable habitat affected are
large in relation to breeding territories which are thought to be 15 acres or less (Wiggins
2005, p. 23). This would occur in the immediate vicinity of the project and would not be
detectable at the scale of the analysis area.

Destruction or abandonment of nests occurs when forest clearing activities happen during the
nesting and early brood rearing season (approximately from April into August). Once the
young have fledged or are mobile (red squirrels) they may be disturbed but should be able to
avoid direct mortality.

River otter: River otters would be most affected by loss of denning habitat (POG) in the
beach fringe and the riparian area of Thayer Creek. An estimated 57 acres of POG in the
beach fringe and eight acres in riparian management areas (2.5 acres are in both the beach
fringe and RMA) would be removed by implementing Alternative 2.

Disturbance during construction could displace otters foraging or denning in the vicinity.
After project completion they would likely adapt to the presence of facilities since generally
people will be absent.

The presence of roads could increase access for trapping. Alternative 2 would construct
approximately 7.6 miles of road. The southern terminus at Stillwater Anchorage in
Kootznahoo Inlet is approximately 0.8 miles from the Angoon boat ramp. The SUP
authorization will include a requirement that the project proponent install effective road
closure devices to ensure that the roads are closed to motorized traffic except what is
necessary for operation and maintenance of the project. This should reduce the likelihood
that a substantial increase in trapping effort will occur as a result of the new roads.

Dewatering of Thayer Creek below the anadromous fish barrier would reduce the quantity
and quality of foraging habitat for otters.

ALTERNATIVE 3 (BURIED TRANSMISSION LINE)

Bald eagle: Approximately 28 acres (0.3% of total acres of beach fringe POG in the analysis
area) of POG forest habitat within the beach fringe would be converted to non-forest. Four
nests could be affected by roads/transmission lines and associated forest clearing within the
330 foot nest buffer. Because of the reduced clearing width in Alternative 3 compared to
Alternative 2, it may be easier to locate the features outside of the 330 foot buffer. At the
least, there would be fewer acres of suitable habitat lost to forest clearing. There are an
estimated 15 nests within ½ mile of project components for which timing restrictions on
blasting may need to be implemented. This alternative would essentially eliminate the
likelihood of eagles being injured or electrocuted along the transmission line because it will
be buried as much as practicable.

Brown bear: Approximately half the acreage of POG will be lost in Alternative 3 (71 acres)
compared to Alternative 2. This is due to the buried transmission line and narrower clearing
limits. In Alternative 3, the power plant discharge will be required to return water above or
immediately below the anadromous fish barrier (300 – 450 feet above the return in
Alternative 2). This would eliminate dewatering of the reach below the barrier and reduce
effects to fish, and reduce the potential effects to anadromous fish and habitat (Schneider
2008). It is assumed that this would maintain bear foraging opportunities close to the
existing condition. The other effects described for Alternative 2 would be essentially the
same in Alternative 3.

Marten: Alternative 3 would have similar but reduced effects compared to Alternative 2. It
would result in the long-term conversion of 71 acres of POG to non-suitable habitat and
construction of 8.3 miles of road. Trapping access and disturbance effects would be similar
to Alternative 2.

Sitka black-tailed deer: Alternative 3 would have similar effects as Alternative 2. Seventyone
acres of POG (<0.1% in analysis area) would be converted to road, brush, and facilities.
As with Alternative 2, all affected POG is below 800 feet elevation. This alternative would
construct 8.3 miles of road. This would not result in improved access compared to
Alternative 2 because the roads would start and end at the same locations. Effects from the
pipeline would be the same.

Cavity dependent MIS: Alternative 3 would have similar but reduced effects to cavity
dependent MIS compared to Alternative 2. Seventy-one (71) acres of POG would be
converted to unsuitable habitat and an estimated 16.6 miles of new forest edge would be
created. Alternative 3 is less likely to result in a localized reduction in breeding density
compared to Alternative 2.

River otter: Implementing Alternative 3 would result in the loss of 28 acres of beach fringe
POG, four acres of RMA POG (one acre is in both the beach fringe and RMA), and
construction of 8.3 miles of road. Trapping access and disturbance effects would be similar
to Alternative 2. Thayer Creek would not be dewatered below the anadromous fish barrier so
foraging habitat would not be affected.

ALTERNATIVE 4 (SUBMERGED TRANSMISSION LINE)

Bald eagle: Approximately 23 acres (0.2% of total acres of beach fringe POG in the analysis
area) of POG forest habitat within the beach fringe would be converted to non-forest. Four
nests could be affected by roads/transmission lines and associated forest clearing within the
330 foot nest buffer. There are estimated 12 nests within ½ mile of project components for
which timing restrictions on blasting may need to be implemented. This alternative would
essentially eliminate the likelihood of eagles being injured or electrocuted along the
transmission line because it will be buried as much as practicable or submerged.

Brown bear: Alternative 4 would affect the least POG (39 acres). As in Alternative 3, the
power plant discharge will be required to return water above or immediately below the
anadromous fish barrier which would reduce the potential effects to anadromous fish and
habitat (Schneider 2008) and maintain bear foraging habitat. By eliminating the upland
transmission line between the marine facility and Kootznahoo Inlet, this alternative provides
the least increase in access.

Marten: Alternative 4 would have the least impacts to marten of the action alternatives with
39 acres of POG converted to unsuitable habitat, and 4.3 miles of road constructed.
Sitka black-tailed deer: Alternative 4 would affect the least amount of deer winter habitat
of the action alternatives. By eliminating the upland transmission line and road between the
marine facility and Kootznahoo Inlet, this alternative provides the least access improvement.
Effects from the pipeline would be the same.

Cavity dependent MIS: Alternative 4 would have the least impacts to cavity dependent
MIS of the action alternatives because it affects the least amount of POG and creates the
fewest miles (8.6) of forest edge.

River otter: Implementing Alternative 4 would result in the loss of 23 acres of beach fringe
POG, two acres of RMA POG (one acre is in both the beach fringe and RMA), and
construction of 4.3 miles of road. The road in Alternative 4 would end at the marine facility
and not extend to Kootznahoo Inlet. Disturbance effects would be less overall, but would be
the same as alternatives 2 and 3 in the Thayer Creek area. Thayer Creek would not be
dewatered below the anadromous fish barrier so foraging habitat would not be affected.

3.8.2.2 Effects – Migratory Birds

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

Under the No Action alternative, no habitat conversion or any associated disruption of
wildlife habitat, or wildlife productivity would occur. Effects related to a potential oil spill
could harm some species of migratory birds.

ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, AND 4

Effects to birds would be related to loss of habitat and nest destruction or abandonment if
management activities occur in suitable nesting habitat during the breeding/nesting period,
which generally begins in May and ends in September when young birds have fledged. The
primary habitat that would be affected by these projects is the hemlock/Sitka spruce forest,
but shrub thicket habitat would also be affected. Alternative 2 would impact 166 acres of
hemlock/spruce forest and 14 acres of shrub thickets. The acres affected in each habitat type
are a small percentage of the acres available within the analysis area.

Alternative 2 would create an estimated 15.4 miles of forest edge. For species such as the
varied thrush and Townsend’s warbler, edges reduce the effectiveness of interior habitat and
increase the potential for nest-site predation from avian predators that are associated with
forest edges and fragmented landscapes. Some species, such as Steller’s jay and
northwestern crow favor edge habitats and would benefit from the creation of edges.

In Alternative 3, effects to these birds would be similar to those described for Alternative 2
with 82 acres of hemlock/spruce forest and 15 acres of shrub thickets affected and 16.8 miles
of edge habitat created.

For Alternative 4, effects to these birds would be similar to those described for Alternatives 2
and 3 but on a smaller scale. Alternative 4 would impact 47 acres of hemlock/spruce forest
and 15 acres of shrub thickets and would create an estimated 8.5 miles of edge habitat.
While some effects to individuals are likely (e.g., nest destruction, disturbance, increased
predation), no population level effects to any migratory bird species or bird species of
conservation concern are expected from any of the alternatives.

3.9 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES - THREATENED, ENDANGERED,
AND SENSITIVE SPECIES

Biological evaluations (BEs) were prepared for threatened or endangered species listed under
the Endangered Species Act (ESA), as well as species on the Forest Service, Region 10
Sensitive Species list (FSM 2672.4). The objectives of the BEs were:

1) to ensure that Forest Service actions do not contribute to the loss of viability or
trend toward federal listing of any native or desired non-native plant or animal
species;
2) to ensure that actions of federal agencies do not jeopardize or adversely modify
critical habitat of federally listed species; and
3) to provide a process and standard that ensures threatened, endangered, and
sensitive species receive full consideration in the decision-making process.

The BEs for plants and animals are on file at the Admiralty Island National Monument
office.

3.9.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - THREATENED, ENDANGERED,
AND SENSITIVE SPECIES

The following sections describe the existing condition of threatened, endangered, and
sensitive species and their habitats in the Angoon Hydroelectric project area. The wildlife
biologist reviewed published literature and information on the NMFS web site to develop the
discussions of ESA-listed species below. Information about Forest Service sensitive animal
species was based on reviews of district wildlife files, letters, scientific literature, and Forest
Plan standards and guidelines.

The botanist reviewed the Regional Forester’s Sensitive Species List, Alaska Natural
Heritage Program database records, the Tongass National Forest plant survey GIS database,
botanical literature (Hitchcock et al. 1955; Hultén 1968), maps, and aerial photos. The Forest
Service botanist conducted field surveys of the project area in 2004 and in 2008.

3.9.1.1 Affected Environment - ESA-Listed Species

Several Alaska threatened, endangered, and proposed species do not occur on the Tongass
National Forest, or in or near the analysis area. These species will not be affected and will
not be addressed further in this EIS.
The following ESA-listed species may occur in the project area or in waters adjacent to the
project area:

• humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)
• Steller sea lion (Eumetopias jubatus)
Humpback whales are common in the inside waters of the Alexander Archipelago and are
regularly sighted in the Inside Passage and coastal waters of the southeast Alaska panhandle

from Yakutat Bay south to Queen Charlotte Sound. Humpback whales feed in southeast
Alaskan panhandle waters from about May through December, although some have been
seen every month of the year. Peak numbers of whales are usually found in near shore
waters during late August and September, but substantial numbers usually remain until early
winter (NMFS 1991b). No critical habitat has been designated for this species in Alaskan
waters.

Humpback whales are known to occur in the marine waters adjacent to the project area.
They were sighted on a regular basis in Chatham Strait during field work. They are capable
of accessing Kootznahoo Inlet, although the strong tides and shallow areas make it unlikely
they regularly use the area. No surveys were conducted specifically for humpback whales.
The eastern Alaska distinct population segment of Steller (northern) sea lions is listed as
threatened under the ESA. The Steller (northern) sea lion ranges from Hokkaido, Japan,
through the Kuril Islands and Okhotsk Sea, Aleutian Islands and central Bering Sea, Gulf of
Alaska, Southeast Alaska, and south to central California (NMFS 1992). Steller sea lion
habitat includes marine and terrestrial areas that they use for a variety of purposes. Adult
Steller sea lions congregate at rookeries for breeding and pupping. Rookeries are generally
located on relatively remote islands, often in exposed areas that are not easily accessed by
humans or mammalian predictors (NMFS 2008).

Critical habitat including haulout and rookery sites has been designated for this species.
Major rookeries and haulouts in Southeast Alaska are identified in 50 CFR 226. Critical
habitat includes a terrestrial zone, an aquatic zone, and an air zone that extend 3,000 feet (0.9
km) landward, seaward, and above, respectively, each major rookery and major haulout in
Southeast Alaska.

There is no critical habitat in the analysis area. The nearest rookery is White Sisters, on the
outside of Chichigof Island, approximately 85 miles away through Peril Strait. The nearest
haulout is Tenakee Cannery Point approximately 23 miles from the project. Sea lions occur
in the marine waters adjacent to the project area. No surveys were conducted specifically for
sea lions.

3.9.1.2 Affected Environment - Forest Service Sensitive Species
ANIMALS

The Regional Forester’s Sensitive Species List for Region 10 identifies four sensitive wildlife
species on the Tongass National Forest. These are the Queen Charlotte goshawk (Accipiter
gentilis laingi), Peale's peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus pealei), osprey (Pandion
haliaetus), and trumpeter swan (Cygnus buccinator). In addition, the BE addressed potential
effects on Forest Service sensitive fish species and Kittlitz’s murrelet, a candidate for listing
under the ESA. Surveys were conducted for goshawk only.

QUEEN CHARLOTTE GOSHAWK

The Queen Charlotte goshawk is identified as a species of concern throughout its range and
is identified as a sensitive species by the Alaska Region of the USFS. The goshawk is a
wide-ranging forest raptor that occupies old-growth forest habitat in Southeast Alaska. POG
forest is an important component of goshawk habitat use patterns in Southeast Alaska and at
all scales (nest tree, nest site, post-fledging areas) goshawks select POG forest types. Nonproductive
forest types and young-growth stands are also used to a lesser extent, and in some
areas these matrix lands may be important for long-term goshawk management (Reynolds et
al. 1992). Most other habitat types (such as alpine, subalpine, muskeg, and clearcuts) were
used infrequently or avoided by goshawks.

Suitable nest site habitat consists of large trees with a dense canopy and generally an open
under-story averaging 12 to 37 acres in size (Flatten et al. 2001). On average, nest trees occur
at 423 feet elevation but generally do not occur above 1000 feet (Titus et al. 1994, page 5).

Foraging areas comprise the largest percentage of the goshawk’s home range. Foraging
habitat is characterized by forested stands with a greater diversity of age classes and
structural characteristics (e.g., snags, woody debris) than nesting areas (Reynolds et al. 1992,
page 16). In Southeast Alaska, prey includes Steller’s jays (Cyanocitta stelleri), grouse
(Dendragapus spp.), varied thrush (Ixoreus naevius), red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus),
and woodpeckers (Picidae) (Titus et al. 1994, page 6).
Based on this information, suitable nesting habitat for this analysis was considered to be
POG forest below 1200 feet in elevation (pre-existing GIS break point). The GIS database
indicates an estimated 68,319 acres of suitable nesting habitat for goshawks in the analysis
area.

There are no known goshawk nests in the analysis area. The closest known nest is between
Thayer and Distin Lakes approximately 8 miles east of the powerhouse site. It was active
when last checked in 2005. Parts or all of the transmission line/road corridor route was
surveyed for goshawk in 2004, 2007, and 2008 using broadcast survey techniques. No
goshawks were located on any surveys.

Approximately 45 percent of the powerline corridor consists of suitable nesting habitat for
goshawks. Nearly all forested areas in the project area provide potentially suitable foraging
habitat.

Peale’s peregrine falcons nest on cliffs from 65 to 900 feet in height along the outer coast of
the Gulf of Alaska (USDA 2008b, p. 3-229). Nest distribution is closely associated with
large seabird colonies located on the outer coasts or nearby islands. Suitable nesting habitat
does not occur in the analysis area. There are no known nests in the area.

OSPREY

Ospreys are specialized raptors that are not commonly observed in Southeast Alaska. Fifteen
nests have been documented in the Stikine area and one in the Ketchikan area. Osprey nests
in Southeast Alaska usually occur in broken-top spruce trees or western hemlock snags.
There is abundant potentially suitable nesting and foraging habitat in the analysis area. For
this analysis, POG in the beach buffer (9867 acres) and riparian management areas (5820
acres, with 211 acres in both) is considered suitable. No ospreys are known to nest in the
area, although they migrate through southeast Alaska and likely pass through the analysis
area. There is a historical record of an osprey sighted in the Killisnoo area of Admiralty
Island (Blatt 1995), which is about 2 air miles south of Angoon along Chatham Strait. Boat
based surveys were conducted along the coast during July of 2004, and found no ospreys in
the area.

TRUMPETER SWAN

Trumpeter swans breed in Alaska and winter along the Pacific Coast from the Alaska
Peninsula to the mouth of the Columbia River (Bellrose 1980, p. 90). Swans also pass
through Southeast Alaska in the spring and fall during migration to and from their breeding
grounds. The breeding range of the trumpeter swan in Alaska is concentrated along the
Alaska Gulf coast and other wetland areas in central and southern central Alaska (Bellrose
1980, p. 88). Limited nesting occurs in southeast Alaska. Nesting habitat for swans includes
shallow, still-water ponds, lakes and marshes with emergent vegetation for foraging and
hiding cover (Hansen et al. 1971).

There is little if any suitable nesting habitat in the analysis area. There are some small lakes
with emergent vegetation that could provide nesting habitat but these lakes were not ground
verified to determine if the type of vegetation meets swan nesting requirements. The FWS
does not conduct nesting surveys in this area due to the low probability for nesting swans and
there are no reports of swans nesting in the area. Migrating and wintering swans are known
to occur in Mitchell Bay, approximately 9 miles east of the project area, where estuarine
conditions provide suitable habitat. The most recent winter surveys found five swans in
Mitchell Bay (Hodges 2001).

KITTLITZ’S MURRELET

Kittlitz’s murrelet is a small diving seabird whose entire North American population, and
most of the worlds population, inhabits Alaskan coastal waters discontinuously from Point
Lay south to the northern portions of Southeast Alaska (USFWS 2002). The Kittlitz’s
murrelet population has shown a significant decline.
During the breeding season, Kittlitz’s murrelets congregate near tidewater glaciers and
offshore of remnant high-elevation glaciers. Their winter range is not well known but
probably pelagic (Day et al. 1999). Nesting habitat includes unvegetated scree fields, coastal
cliffs, barren ground, rock ledges, and talus above timberline in coastal mountains in the
vicinity of glaciers, cirques near glaciers or recently glaciated areas (Day et al. 1999). They
forage extensively near outflow from glaciers, both tidewater and retreated glaciers with
turbid glacial streams, primarily within 200m from shore (Day et al. 1999).
There is no nesting habitat or glacially influenced waters in the project area. No Kittlitz’s
murrelets have been reported in the analysis area.

PLANTS

General habitats or plant communities in the project area include conifer forest, open forest,
forest edge, riparian areas, gravel bars, beach, forested beach fringe, beach meadows, nonforested
wetlands, wet meadows, fens, shallow freshwater, ponds and lakes and their
margins, and muskeg.

In July and August of 2004 and August of 2008 botanical field surveys were conducted in
potential construction and clearing areas for this project. Survey intensity varied among
activity areas, depending on the likelihood for sensitive plant habitat to be present in a
particular area. Areas with the greatest potential of supporting sensitive species (e.g., beach
meadows, wet areas, streamside habitats) received the most scrutiny. In such areas, the
botanist conducted a complete examination of specific areas of the project after walking
through the project area. Surveys in areas with a lower likelihood of supporting sensitive
species (e.g., open forest, forest edge) consisted of a single walk-through of the project area.

No sensitive plants were found within areas likely to be affected by project activities.

Table 3-9. Sensitive Plants Suspected to Occur in the Immediate Vicinity of the
Angoon Hydroelectric Project Area

Source: Anderson 2004.

Table 3-9 summarizes the sensitive plant species for which preferred habitats exist in the
project area. Of the three species that are known to occur on the Juneau Ranger District, only
one (Poa laxiflora) has been documented on Admiralty Island approximately 20 to 30 miles
from the project area. The nearest known locations of the other two species (Arnica lessingii
ssp. norbergii and Puccinellia kamtschatica) are on the mainland, 40 to 50 miles from
Angoon.

3.9.2 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS ON THREATENED,
ENDANGERED, AND SENSITIVE SPECIES

3.9.2.1 Effects – ESA Listed Species

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

The no action alternative would not impact any suitable habitat nor result in disturbance to
individual ESA listed species. There is a low probability, but slightly higher risk of a fuel oil
spill in the vicinity due to Angoon’s reliance on fuel oil for electric generation under this
alternative. Whales and sea lions would likely be able to avoid direct mortality related to a
spill but sublethal exposure to contaminants and impacts to prey populations and distribution
could occur.

ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, AND 4

None of the action alternatives will detrimentally impact any critical habitat nor cause
disturbance above existing levels to individual humpback whales or Steller sea lions. Under
all action alternatives there would be no effect on ESA-listed species. The rationale for this
finding includes the following:

• The project activities will occur primarily on land. Effects to the marine environment
would be limited to installing mooring buoys and laying power lines on the bottom of
Chatham Strait or across Kootznahoo Inlet. These developments would not occur in
critical habitat or interfere with the species use of the area. Angliss and Outlaw
(2008) did not report any known cases of whale entanglement in submarine power or
communication cables.
• This alternative would cause an increase in local small boat traffic. It is expected that
the increase as a result of project activities will be a small proportion of the ambient
boating activity. Boat operations will be required to observe NMFS regulations to
avoid disturbing all marine mammals.
• The probability of an oil spill will be reduced compared to the no action alternative.
If a spill were to occur the effects would be the same.
• Given the assumptions that a cable-laying ship would be traveling slowly and for a
short period, it would appear unlikely that laying a submarine cable would
measurably impact humpback whales. It is expected that the cable laying ship would
not present a risk of disturbance or collision to whales or sea lions above existing
activities in the area.
• Based on the low density of sea lions in the area and the small increase in vessel
traffic for this project compared to existing uses, disturbance to sea lions is expected
to be negligible.

3.9.2.2 Effects –Forest Service Sensitive Species

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

The no action alternative would not impact any suitable habitat nor result in disturbance to
individual sensitive species. There is a low probability, but slightly higher risk of a fuel oil
spill in the vicinity due to Angoon’s reliance on fuel oil for electric generation under this
alternative. Although unlikely, a spill could result in direct mortality to wildlife present in
the area as well as contamination of habitat.

ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, AND 4

Under all action alternatives there would be no effect on sensitive fish species or Peale’s
peregrine falcon, Kittlitz’s murrelet, trumpeter swan, or osprey. The rationale for this finding
includes the following:

• The project area does not provide suitable habitat for Peale’s peregrine falcon, or
Kittlitz’s murrelet, or Fish Creek chum salmon, Island king salmon, or northern pike .
• All applicable Forest Plan standards and guidelines relating to soil, water, wildlife,
and other resources will be implemented.
• No suitable habitat for trumpeter swans will be affected by any action alternative.
Swans use wintering habitat in the analysis area but project activities are not likely to
disturb them.
• Apparently suitable habitat for osprey will be affected by all action alternatives.
However, the lack of documented use of that habitat by osprey and the small percent
of habitat affected, make it unlikely that any individual osprey would be affected. If
any active nests are found before or during implementation of the project, activities
that would likely disturb nesting osprey will be prohibited within a minimum 330-
foot radius of the nest.

Suitable habitat for goshawks will be affected by all action alternatives. There is potential
for disturbance of unknown goshawk nests. Implementing alternatives 2, 3, or 4 of the
Angoon Hydroelectric Project may impact individuals but is not likely to cause a trend to
federal listing or a loss of viability to northern goshawks. Alternative 2 would eliminate
143-acres, or less than one percent, of the suitable habitat (POG under 1200 feet elevation) in
the analysis area. POG would be converted to bare ground (roads, rock pits), buildings, or
cleared and maintained as shrub fields without large trees. These are not suitable nesting
habitats.

Foraging or undiscovered nesting goshawks could be disturbed by project activities,
especially during the construction phase. Construction and forest clearing activities during
the nesting season through fledging (approximately April through July) could result in nest
destruction or abandonment. The projected transmission line and road locations were
surveyed; however, goshawks often move nest sites from one year to the next. Terms and
conditions would reduce the potential to affect goshawk.

In Alternative 2, the transmission line is entirely above ground. The proponent would be
required to follow the APLIC standards and design recommendations (APLIC 2006) for
construction of the line to reduce the likelihood of raptors being killed or injured by collision
or electrocution. Goshawks do not often utilize power poles for perching the way buteos and
eagles do. However, this alternative would still represent an increased risk for collisions
compared to the alternatives where the line is buried or submerged.
Alternatives 2 and 3 would have similar effects to Alternative 2, with less goshawk habitat
impacted and lower collision risk; Alternative 4 would have the least affect to goshawk and
their habitat. All alternatives would be consistent with the Forest Plan conservation strategy
and would be expected to maintain a viable well dispersed population of goshawks across the
Tongass NF.

PLANTS

The proposed project would not adversely affect sensitive plants. This determination was
based on the following:

• A qualified botanist conducted thorough surveys at the proper time of year
and found no sensitive plants.
• Plants native to the area and originating near the project area would be used
for any re-vegetation or restoration work.
• Prior to construction, the district botanist will mark, on the ground or on aerial
photos, the boundaries of the known rare plant populations in or near the
proposed project footprint.
• If any previously undiscovered sensitive plants are encountered before or
during implementation of the project the Forest Service must be notified
immediately to evaluate the potential risk to the population and recommend
avoidance or mitigation measures.
• To avoid rare plants, spoils will not be deposited in the large tall sedge fen
meadow between the power house and dam.

3.10 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES - SCENERY

Visual resource analysis evaluates the perception of change to the scenic integrity, or
apparent naturalness of a landscape which might occur from disturbance created by
alteration. Potential changes to scenery are evaluated from Visual Priority Travel Routes and
Use Areas identified in the Forest Plan. The effects of proposed project elements are
discussed from the point of view of viewers looking toward the project area from these
locations. Changes that viewers might perceive are based on potential modifications to the
color, texture, reflectivity, shape, and other visual characteristics of the landscape and
proposed project elements.

Potential changes to the scenery are also discussed from the perspective of viewers seeing the
landscape in the foreground (0 to 1/2 mile distant), middleground (1/2 to 4 miles distant), or
background (4 miles and greater in distance). These distance categories recognize that the
perception of detail in the visual environment is much lower when a landscape is viewed
from a distance than from nearby. Many types of changes that would be noticed by a viewer
close to a modified landscape would not be perceived as a modification when viewed from
farther away.

3.10.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT – SCENERY

This section describes the existing visual character of the scenery in the project area. The
discussion emphasizes effects from areas that are visible from the Visual Priority Travel
Routes and Use areas identified in the Forest Plan. Those portions of the project area not
visible from designated Visual Priority Travel Routes and Use Areas are also discussed,
although in less detail.

The project area is located in the Admiralty-Chichagof visual character type and displays
many of the characteristic features of the type. Rugged, rocky shorelines are adjacent to
forested hillsides with relatively little variation in vegetation. Beyond, in the far background
behind the site, alpine features of Admiralty Island are sometimes visible. The flatter areas of
the project area include chains of small lakes. Although it is not in the project area, nearby
Thayer Lake is one of the landmarks of this visual character area.

Visual Priority Travel Routes and Use Areas near the project area are cruise ship and small
boat routes in Chatham Strait extending from the shoreline to the cruise ship and ferry route 5
to 10 miles in distance. In general, topography and vegetation screen the views to many of
the proposed project elements.

The following subsections describe the visual character of the project area in more detail,
describing the project area as a series of viewshed, shown in Figure 3-5. A viewshed is
defined as an area characterized by consistent patterns of topography, aspect, vegetation, and
visibility from Visual Priority Travel Routes and Use Areas. While the area within an
individual viewshed is not uniform, it is similar enough that proposed project actions would
be expected to have a similar effect throughout the viewshed.

3.10.1.1 Affected Environment – Scenery

THAYER CREEK VIEWSHED

Except for the creek mouth, this viewshed is generally not visible from designated Visual
Priority and Use Areas.
This viewshed includes the reach of Thayer Creek from the location of the proposed
diversion dam to the creek mouth. The topography is generally a steep-sided creek channel
with a narrow band of riparian forest adjacent to the creek and upland forest on the valley
walls. In this viewshed the riparian forest extends approximately one hundred feet from the
stream, and riparian vegetation is generally more visually diverse and lighter colored than the
adjacent hillside coniferous forest. The extension of riparian vegetation to the shoreline
provides visual cues to viewers seeing the stream mouth in the foreground or middle ground
that this is a location where a stream enters Chatham Strait. The contrast between riparian
vegetation and the nearby shoreline vegetation are not significant enough to be visible in the
background.

CHATHAM STRAIT SHORELINE VIEWSHED

Portions of this viewshed are prominently visible from locations within Chatham Strait. The
shoreline area (including the proposed landing site) and the hillside inland of the bench area
are important elements of the view to this area. The bench area is generally screened from
view, and modifications in this part of the viewshed would either not be visible or would
show only a minor change to the existing scenic character.

This viewshed encompasses the area from the mouth of Thayer Creek to the proposed marine
facilities. The topography of steep forested hillsides rise behind a narrow forested plateau
along the shoreline, with a very narrow fringe of rocky beach. The scenic character of the
landscape is dominated by the horizontal banding of shoreline elements where the water
meets the shore. The area at the water’s edge and in the intertidal zone is unvegetated except
for various seaweeds clinging to the rocky shore. This band is generally dark in color, with
the regularly wetted rocks and intertidal vegetation blending into a dark gray-brown color.
Horizontal bands of lighter-colored barnacles are visible to viewers near the shore.
Immediately above the intertidal zone, the shrub understory is visible, blocking views into
the trunks of the adjacent coniferous forest. The understory shrubs generally have a brighter
green color than the adjacent conifers. Conifers growing near the shoreline are smaller than
those growing further inland; light green lichen is a striking visual feature.

The horizontal banding of the shoreline scenery is prominent when viewed from the
foreground or middleground. Within each band, the color and texture of the scenery is
generally uniform along the shoreline, with breaks in the pattern occurring only where there
is an underlying landscape change, for example at a creek mouth or a large rock outcrop.

The proposed barge landing site is a rocky outcrop extending into Chatham Strait. Depending
on the tide, it could be perceived by viewers as a small island, although it is connected to the
shoreline by a narrow, unvegetated strip of land. The portion of the outcrop furthest from the
shore is large enough to support shoreline conifers. This section is oriented at a right angle to
the portion of the outcrop connecting to shore; the area behind it is screened from most
viewpoints in Chatham Strait by the vegetated section of the outcrop.

Figure 3-5
Project Area Viewsheds

CHATHAM STRAIT HILLSIDE VIEWSHED

This viewshed is prominently visible from Chatham Strait, a designated Visual Priority
Travel Routes and Use Area.

This viewshed includes the area from the proposed barge landing site to the ridgeline above
Chatham Strait. The hillside rises gently for approximately 0.25 mile before steepening into a
series of forested cliff bands. Above the cliffs, the slope eases to the ridgeline, a little over
0.5 mile from the shore. Slopes below the cliff average approximately 25 percent, with
scattered benches and steeper areas. Vegetation is uniform even-aged coniferous forest, with
trees approximately 75 to 100 feet tall.

The texture of the hillside is generally fine and uniform. Color is gray-green typical of
coniferous forest in Southeast Alaska – a combination of the underlying color of the conifers
and lichen. The existing condition is a good representation of the typical visual character, as
would be used to evaluate consistency with scenery goals and objectives. Currently, no
evidence of disturbance – either natural or as a result of management actions – is easily
discernible by a casual viewer.

LAKES VIEWSHED

This viewshed is not visible from designated Visual Priority Travel Routes and Use Areas.
This viewshed begins on the far side of a ridgeline from Chatham Strait and continues to a
ridgeline that then drops to Kootznahoo Inlet. This area is more topographically and
botanically diverse than the shoreline viewsheds, including gently rolling hills and valleys
and a few small lakes. The area is completely screened from Visual Priority Travel Routes
and Use Areas by the prominent ridgeline separating this viewshed from Chatham Strait. The
location is also screened from the community of Angoon and boaters in Kootznahoo Inlet by
topography and vegetation.

The scenery is characterized by a matrix of uniform coniferous forest surrounding small
complexes of lake and wetland vegetation. The coniferous forest is darker green than the
shoreline forest, showing less of the lichen color that dominates the forest above. There is a
strong contrast between the forested matrix and the lake/wetland vegetation areas, which are
lighter in color, more diverse in texture, and more likely to have seasonal variations in
appearance because of the dominance of deciduous plants. There is also a prominent
difference in scale between the forested and lake/wetland vegetation, which is generally less
than one-quarter of the height of the surrounding forest.

The perception of this landscape depends strongly on the location of the viewer. Larger
landscape patterns are likely seen only from the air because of the limited vantage points for
seeing this unit from the ground. The relatively few visitors who view this landscape from
the ground are likely to be limited to shorter views, either from within the forest or from one
of the small lakes. Viewers on a boat or floatplane on one of the lakes may see a small
portion of the viewshed at any time because the forest directly adjacent to the lakes and
associated wetlands effectively screens the relatively flat adjacent topography.

KOOTZNAHOO INLET VIEWSHED

This viewshed is not visible from designated Visual Priority Travel Routes and Use Areas. It
is visible from the community of Angoon’s waterfront area. Because it is not located in the
National Forest, it is not subject to Forest Plan standards and guidelines for scenery.

This viewshed includes a hillside dropping towards Kootznahoo Inlet and the shoreline of the
inlet. The area is located outside of the National Forest, in the community of Angoon. This
landscape is characterized by a gently sloping hillside extending to the shoreline. It is more
topographically varied than the hillside rising from Chatham Strait described earlier, with
some benches, rolls, and broken terrain, but without prominent cliff bands. Vegetation is
generally uniform coniferous forest, with some diversity of texture and form resulting from
the varying topography. The shoreline is characterized by a broader intertidal zone than the
Chatham Strait shore, with some grassy flats before the beginning of the coniferous forest.
There is also some scattered development along the shoreline including piers and shoreline
facilities. The opposite shoreline is heavily developed with piers and structures supporting
the community of Angoon, creating a fairly complex visual landscape for small boats and
floatplanes on the inlet.

3.10.2 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS ON SCENERY

For this project the standards and guidelines for acceptable levels of change to scenery are
adopted in the Transportation and Utility System Management Prescription of the Forest
Plan. The Goal of this prescription is to provide for, and/or facilitate the development of
existing and future major public Transportation and Utility Systems. The allowable
deviation to the scenic environment from a naturally intact landscape would be a Low Scenic
Integrity Objective (SIO). Under this standard, management activities that may be visually
prominent in the landscape are allowed, but they must use the form, line, color, texture,
and/or scale of that landscape in the design of the activity where possible. The degree of the
effects of the project are evaluated from different viewing distances (foreground, middle
ground, and background), and also their duration. For example, exposed road cuts may be
visually prominent when first constructed, but become less so over time as vegetation
matures and the road cut blends into the surrounding landscape.

3.10.2.1 Effects – Scenery

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

Under the No Action alternative the project area would continue to develop under a natural
regime of succession and disturbance. Some natural disturbances reduce the perceived visual
quality of a landscape; however, the visual character of the landscape as an outcome of
unimpaired natural processes is a desired characteristic of Wilderness.

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, AND 4

In general, topography and vegetation screen the views to many of the proposed project
elements. Under all action alternatives, most of the proposed project would not be visible
from Visual Priority Travel Routes and Use Areas. Under all action alternatives the proposed
power production facilities and associated transmission areas along Thayer Creek would be
screened from Visual Priority Travel Routes and Use Areas because they will be located
behind a prominent ridgeline and would not be visible from Chatham Strait. Portions of the
project area that may be visible include the proposed landing area and a segment of the
transmission facility that is located on the hillside between the shoreline area and the top of
the prominent ridge. The power generation and transmission facilities along Thayer Creek
would be visible to occasional backcountry travelers.

Under all action alternatives some elements of the project would be visible from the Visual
Priority Travel Routes and Use Areas, modifying the scenery and having an effect on
viewers’ experience of the landscape. Changes to the visual environment would occur in two
ways. First, clearing forest vegetation would change visual patterns in the landscape. The
second type of change would be the addition of built elements to the landscape that contrast
with the surrounding natural environment. Because the landscape surrounding the proposed
project area is designated Wilderness, the contrast between the proposed facility and the
adjacent forest would be greater than in other settings where more human modifications to
the scenery are present.

Under all action alternatives port facilities and a temporary barge landing would be
constructed at a prominent rock outcrop in the Chatham Strait Shoreline viewshed. The
proposed port facilities would be permanent, while the barge landing site would be restored
as closely as possible to original conditions following the completion of the project. Because
of their location it is not possible to completely buffer the port facilities with vegetation.
Modifications to this rocky point would be visible in the foreground and middleground from
small boat routes in Chatham Strait. It may be possible to locate the port facilities between
the outcrop and the shoreline, where they would be screened by the bulk of the outcrop from
most viewing directions. All port and barge landing facilities, including any buoys, ramps,
and access roads, would contrast with the undeveloped character of the wilderness coastline.
The permanent modifications for the port facilities would likely be small-scale, and would
not be prominent from Visual Priority Travel Routes and Use Areas. They would mostly be
visible to small boats, including human-powered craft, which follow the shoreline closely.
Assuming that (1) all barge landing facilities would be temporary, (2) development impact
would be limited, and (3) restoration would be included in the project, then effects of the
barge landing on scenic resources would be temporary.

The diversion dam and intake would not be visible from any Visual Priority Travel Routes
and Use Areas. These facilities may be seen by recreational users of Thayer Creek. The
diversion dam and intake would largely be located within the stream channel, be relatively
small, and be designed to minimize their contrast with the surrounding landscape.

The pipeline, surge tank, and penstock would not be visible from designated Visual Priority
Travel Routes and Use Areas. The only likely viewers of these facilities would be guests
from the lodge on Thayer Lake. For these viewers, the pipeline, surge tank, and penstock
would likely contrast with the surrounding landscape in line and form. The pipeline would be
a long, large scale horizontal element unlike naturally occurring forest landscape elements.
Depending on the final location of the pipeline, it may be effectively screened by understory
plants. The surge tank and penstock would also be large, geometric structures, but would be
partially screened by topography.

The effects of the powerhouse and switch yard would be similar to those of the surge tank
and penstock described above. These large features would not be visible from Visual Priority
Travel Routes and Use Areas and would not likely be viewed except by occasional travelers
along Thayer Creek.

Staging areas and construction camp locations would be buffered from view by vegetation,
and would likely only be visible to occasional recreational visitors. Assuming that these areas
are restored following the completion of construction, visual effects would be minor and
temporary under both action alternatives.

Rock and borrow sites, needed for the construction of the access road would not likely be
visible from Visual Priority Travel Routes and Use Areas unless they are developed in the
Chatham Straits Hillside Viewshed. The TUS land use designation includes guidelines for
the selecting the location, design, and restoration of rock and borrow sites.
All action alternatives would meet the standards and guidelines of the scenery resource for
the TUS land use designation as described in the Forest Plan. The project elements described
under the action alternative would meet or exceed the low scenic integrity objective as
described in the standards and guidelines from all viewing distances

ALTERNATIVE 2 (PROPOSED ACTION)

Access roads would provide service access to each of the facilities. Under Alternative 2,
access roads and transmission lines would extend from the power generation site to
Kootznahoo Inlet.

The visual impact of roads depends on the relationship of the road to topography and the
viewer. Where forested landscapes are relatively level or gently rolling, roads are not
prominent visual features. Where the terrain is steeper, roads and their associated clearing
can be much more prominent. Under this alternative all transmission lines are overhead lines
supported on 40 foot wooden poles with clearing limits of 15 feet on one side of the
transmission line and 20-30 feet on the other side to include the service road. Experience
with similar transmission lines in remote locations in SE Alaska indicates that clearing limits
of approximately one tree height from the transmission line are more realistic to avoid line
damage and associated power interruptions. Regardless of initial design, it is likely that trees
will ultimately be cleared to these limits to protect the powerline. Because tree heights and
topography vary along the routes, clearing limits for both the road and powerline will also
vary. In general the transmission line would traverse forested lands with tree heights of
approximately 100 feet requiring clearing limits of about 200 feet.

In forested areas, transmission line structures generally repeat the dominant vertical lines of
the surrounding coniferous trees. The electrical lines themselves are not similar to other lines
and shapes in the forest, and often have different reflective qualities, making them more
visually prominent from foreground and middleground views. In the background, power
poles and transmission lines are generally less prominent than their associated cleared areas.
Clearing associated with power lines would create effects similar to those of proposed access
roads.

Under Alternative 2 power poles may be visible in the middleground from some viewpoints
within Visual Priority Travel Routes and Use Areas, but would generally be screened by
vegetation and likely would not be distinguishable from surrounding forest.
Two lakes in the Lakes Viewshed are adjacent to the proposed transmission line route. Lakes
are visited for recreation or subsistence uses more frequently than the surrounding forest, and
would be more likely to serve as viewing locations for the project elements. Where possible,
the transmission lines would maintain a minimum 100-foot buffer from the lakes in this unit.
The transmission line corridor would be visible from Kootznahoo Inlet and parts of the
community of Angoon. The rolling topography and mature vegetation on the hillside would
screen portions of the transmission line and reduce its visual prominence. Also under this
alternative, a structure would be located near the shoreline on the north side of Kootznahoo
Inlet to make the transition from aboveground to submarine transmission line. This structure
would be designed to blend with the surrounding landscape as much as possible. The
shoreline in this area already has some developed structures, however, so the contrast
between the power facility and the surrounding landscape would not be as great.

ALTERNATIVE 3 (BURIED TRANSMISSION LINE)

Under this alternative the transmission line and service road would follow much the same
route as Alternative 2 but the line would be buried where feasible and would generally be
located within the clearing limits of the service road.

In the Chatham Strait Hillside viewshed, effects under Alternative 3 would be significantly
less than Alternative 2 by burying the transmission cable and reducing the width of the
corridor. As described in the HDR Feasibility Evaluation Report, the service road, on
relatively flat ground, would require a clearing width of 20-30 feet (though clearing may vary
and be closer to 46-70 feet). Effects in the Lakes Viewshed would be similar to Alternative
2. The visibility of the transmission line corridor would be reduced from that of Alternative
2 achieving a higher level of scenic integrity than required under the Forest Plan.

ALTERNATIVE 4 (SUBMERGED TRANSMISSION LINE)

Under this alternative no project facilities would be located in the Chatham Straits Hillside,
Lakes, or Kootznoowoo Viewsheds, eliminating potential scenic effects within those
viewsheds. Within the Thayer Creek and Chatham Straits Shoreline viewsheds the scenic
effects are similar to Alternative 3 since the transmission line would be buried where feasible
under both alternatives, minimizing clearing of vegetation.

The underwater transmission line corridor would not be visible, although some project
elements on the shoreline, such as the switchyards at either terminus of the underwater line,
may be visible in the foreground and middleground to small boats in Chatham Strait.

The final location of the switch yards would incorporate screening vegetation where feasible.
This structure would meet or exceed the low scenic integrity objective by incorporating
design elements that blend with the color of the natural surroundings. Under Alternative 4,
the powerline would extend to the shoreline at the barge landing location, and a structure at
the shoreline would be required to make the transition from above-ground to underwater
transmission cable. This structure would likely be visible in the foreground and
middleground to small boats in Chatham Strait.

Under Alternative 4 access roads and transmission lines would only extend from the power
generation site to the port facilities. Alternative 4 would include less modification to the
underlying landscape than Alternatives 2 and 3 and would have correspondingly less visual
impact. Alternative 4 would require 4.1 fewer miles of transmission corridor through the
most visible portions of the project area than Alternatives 2 and 3. This alternative would
also avoid modification to the landscape in the Chatham Straits Hillside and Kootznahoo
Inlet Viewsheds that would be visible from small boats. Although views from aircraft are
specifically excluded from consideration as Visual Priority Travel Routes and Use Areas,
there is a relatively high volume of floatplane traffic that views the project area, including
regularly scheduled flights between Juneau and Angoon. The reduced length of transmission
corridor and access road in Alternative 4 would also reduce the impact of the project for
viewers in airplanes, where transmission facilities can not be screened effectively.

3.11 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES - CULTURAL RESOURCES

36 CFR Part 800 regulations, which implement the National Historic Preservation Act
(NHPA), as amended, require federal agencies to take into account the effects of their
undertakings on historic properties, in consultation with other interested parties. Historic
properties include any prehistoric or historic district, site, building, structure, or object
included in or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places (National
Register). The information in this section was drawn from the archaeological survey report
prepared for this project, which is on file at the Admiralty Island National Monument office.

3.11.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT – CULTURAL RESOURCES

The following subsections describe the cultural prehistory and history of the project area, as
well as the process by which area cultural resources were investigated and evaluated. Section
106 is the portion of the NHPA that requires federal agencies to consider the effects of their
undertakings on historic resources. To complete the Section 106 review, agency staff
conduct heritage resource surveys to identify any cultural resources or areas of traditional use
within a project area that might be impacted by a proposed activity. Before beginning on-theground
archaeological surveys, cultural resource specialists review what is known about the
prehistoric and historic use in the project area and evaluate any sites for significance.
Avoidance of sites or protection of significant sites is considered prior to project
implementation.

Information sources for the background review and literature search within the project area
included selected works of Frederica de Laguna, Madonna Moss, Charles Mobley, and others
working in the vicinity of Angoon and on Admiralty Island. These reports, books and articles
document ongoing inventories and archaeological surveys relating to archaeological sites, in
addition to ethnographic and historic overviews for the area. In addition, the Forest Service
consulted the Angoon Community Association, Kootznoowoo, Inc., Central Council of
Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes, Sealaska Corporation, and the City of Angoon in July 2004
regarding potential cultural resource concerns associated with the proposed project.

The Forest Service archaeologist completed field reviews in 2004, 2005, and 2008 having
surveyed approximately surveying 65 acres of area identified as having a high sensitivity for
the presence of cultural material resources. Project areas that fall within the high-sensitivity
zone include the port facilities, portions of the road, the powerhouse location, and segments
of the access roads that are in the vicinity of the powerhouse. The temporary barge landing
and garage location, as well as the location where the submarine lines will transition from an
overhead to a submarine lines, are also within the high-sensitivity zone. These areas are
below 100 feet in elevation, in the vicinity of an anadromous fish stream or coastline, or in
the vicinity of a reported or documented archaeological site or site associated with an oral
history.

The survey team identified six newly recorded sites, representing both prehistoric and
historic use of the project area and continuous use of the landscape over time. Cultural
resource specialists evaluated the sites for eligibility for inclusion on the National Register
and to assess the effects of the proposed undertaking on those sites eligible for the National
Register.

No historic lode or placer mining occurred within the area of potential effect. Field
investigators identified and investigated one karst landform within the project area. This was
a sinkhole approximately 130 feet in diameter and 30 feet deep. At its western edge, a karst
limestone cave was located approximately 25 feet long and 6 feet high at its entrance. The
cave floor was dry with a small stream percolating into gravel at its north end. No sign of
human use was noted at the time of investigation, and no potential leads were identified.

CULTURAL OVERVIEW
Prehistory and Ethnohistory

Marine adapted peoples have occupied southeast Alaska for at least the last 10,000 years.
This maritime life-style has persisted through the millennium and remains important to the
regional economy and traditional subsistence users. A Holocene period cultural sequence
developed for southeast Alaska is based on an archaeological record pieced together by
relatively few intensively investigated sites. The Early, Middle and Late periods of the
northern Northwest Coast cultural sequences represent coarse divisions of cultural
development (Moss 1998:92-102). The microblade tool tradition is a defining characteristic
of the Early Period (10,000-5,000 B.P.). Sites dating to this period have been found in the
northern Southeast Alaska on both the mainland and island locations, including Ground Hog
Bay (JUN-037) and Hidden Falls (SIT-119).

The Middle Period (5,000-1,500 B.P.) is defined by an increase in the number and size of
archaeological sites, more diversified bone tool assemblages and wood stake fish weirs and
traps. Sites dating from this period include the North Point Site (SUM-025), Favorite Bay
Fish Weir (SIT-033) and Killisnoo Picnic Ground Midden (SIT-124).

A continuation of site types from the Middle Period, an increase in fort sites, and written
history accounts help define the Late Period (1,500 B.P.-A.D. 1741). Sites on Admiralty
Island that date from this era include Daxat Kanadaa (SIT-244), Marten’s Fort (SIT-171) and
Garnes Point Shell Midden (SIT-304). The Late Period represents cultural continuity
between the Middle Period and historic period.

Tlingit migration and settlement theories often center on events rather than dates. A major
theme in Tlingit legend depicts a great flood. Many clans claim local origin while others
claim settlement after the flood. The latter groups are said to have sought refuge from the
flood on mountains and returned to the coast after the waters receded (Arndt et al. 1987:88).
Resident groups encountered during Tlingit migration and settlement were either absorbed or
pushed out (Arndt et al. 1987:87).

The project area is in the traditional territory of the Angoon Tlingit, the Xutsnoowú kwáan,
who occupied the shores of Chatham Straits on Admiralty Island from Point Marsden
southward as far as Chapin Bay and on Chichagof and Baranof Island from Basket Bay to
Gut Bay (Goldschmidt and Haas, 1998). The Angoon Tlingit include the following clans:

History
In 1794 Vancouver’s voyage visited and described a settlement on Admiralty Island,
describing a bay southeast of Pt. Parker “…where many of the natives in their canoes were
assembled.” At what was probably the entrance to Kootznahoo Inlet Vancouver wrote:

On either side of the entrance some new habitations were constructing, and for
the first time during our intercourse with the North West American Indians, in
the vicinity of these habitations were found some square patches of ground in
a state of cultivation.” (in Moss 1989:31)

Tlingit contact with Russian and European explorers and fur traders increased in the early to
mid-1800s. An 1880 census report lists two settlements of the Khootznahoo Tribe with a
total population of 666. One settlement was Augoon, with 420 inhabitants and another
Scutskon, with 246 inhabitants (Petroff 1880). The census data of 1890 gives a population
for the “Hutznahu tribe” as 420 (235 males, 185 females). The reported population of
Angoon was 381 (200 males, 181 females) with 22 houses sheltering 113 families. Another
79 people lived in Killisnoo (Porter 1893).

Following the Russian “sale” of Alaska to the United States in 1867, the military rule of the
region is notable for the unfortunate shelling of Angoon. There are several version of the
bombardment. In 1882 the American warship Corwin, under the command of Commander
Merriman, bombarded the town of Angoon in response to the Tlingit demand for
compensation for an accidental death. The destruction of Angoon by the United States naval
forces is probably that incident in the community’s history which is today most prominent in
the minds of the people (de Laguna 1960:158).

On August 20, 1902 the Alexander Archipelago Forest Reserve was established and the
Tongass Forest in July 1907. In 1908 the Alexander Archipelago and the Tongass Forest
were consolidated into a single national forest, the Tongass National Forest, with a total area
of 6.7 million acres and it was enlarged again in 1909 adding another 8.7 million acres
(Rakestraw 1994).

3.11.1.1 Affected Environment - Historic and Prehistoric Sites in the Project
Area

Review of literature and archival materials identified three previously documented sites in
the vicinity of the project area. These are Turn Point Village, Thayer Creek Village, and
Stillwater Garden Site. All three sites are outside the area of potential effect; therefore, Forest
Service cultural resource specialists did not evaluate these sites for eligibility for inclusion on
the National Register. All three sites are potentially eligible for inclusion, however, under
Criterion D, based on their potential to yield information important to prehistory.

During field investigations in 2004 and 2005, field investigators identified six newly
recorded sites and evaluated them for inclusion on the National Register (see Table 3-10).
One site, Thayer Creek Cabin Remains, was determined not eligible because it did not meet
any of the criteria for significance identified in 36 CFR 60.4. The other five sites are eligible
for inclusion on the National Register. Three of the five sites, Stillwater Depressions,
Stillwater Anchorage Collapsed Structure, and Rusty Traps Historic Site, were determined
significant under Criterion D, for their potential to yield information important in prehistory
or history. The other two sites, West Stillwater Anchorage Historic Cabin and Brightman
SUA Residence, were determined significant under Criterion A, for their association with
events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of history.

3.11.2 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS ON CULTURAL RESOURCES

3.11.2.1 Effects – Historic and Prehistoric Sites

Table 3-10. Historic and Prehistoric Sites in the Angoon Hydroelectric Project Area,
Determinations of Eligibility, and Determinations of Effect

Source: Gilliam et al. 2005
1 Criteria for inclusion on National Register of Historic Places, per 36 CFR 60.4: A - association with events
that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of history; D - potential to yield information
important to prehistory or history; N/A – Not Applicable..

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

Under this alternative, historic properties throughout the project area would not be affected
and they would retain their integrity and natural setting.

ALTERNATIVE 2 (PROPOSED ACTION)

Archaeologists assessed the potential for the proposed Angoon Hydroelectric Project to
affect the five historic and prehistoric sites in the project area that are eligible for inclusion
on the National Register. The project should be designed to avoid all known sites that are
eligible for inclusion on the National Register. This would require integrating the design and
engineering specifications with an archaeologist during all phases of project planning, layout
and during initial project implementation.

Alternative 2 would potentially impact historic properties at the southern terminus of the
overhead transmission line segment and the access/maintenance road paralleling the
transmission line. The proposed electrical switch yard, where the submarine cable enters
Kootznahoo Inlet, would also potentially impact historic properties in the vicinity.
Implementation of Alternative 2 would result in an elevated risk of impacts to undetected
sites throughout the project area through ground disturbance associated with building roads,
transmission line corridor, powerhouse construction, dam, marine facility, garage, and
temporary camp and facilities built to serve during project construction.

The three previously documented sites in the vicinity of the project area are spatially
separated from the project footprint and would not be impacted by the proposed project: Turn
Point Village is southwest of the project area, Thayer Creek Village is on the north side of
the mouth of Thayer Creek, and Stillwater Garden Site is east of a small stream that borders
the project area to the east.

During project layout and design the engineers should work closely with the archaeologist to
ensure historic properties are avoided through careful planning. The archaeologist will also
be required to be on site during project implementation to ensure avoidance of the site during
project layout was successful.

ALTERNATIVE 3 (BURIED TRANSMISSION LINE)

Alternative 3 would potentially impact historic properties at the southern terminus of the
overhead/buried transmission line segment and the access/maintenance road paralleling the
transmission line. The proposed electrical switch yard where the submarine cable enters
Kootznahoo Inlet could also impact historic properties in the vicinity unless measures are
taken to carefully avoid the sites.

The three previously documented sites in the vicinity of the project area are spatially
separated from the project footprint and would not be impacted by the proposed project: Turn
Point Village is southwest of the project area, Thayer Creek Village is on the north side of
the mouth of Thayer Creek, and Stillwater Garden Site is east of a small stream that borders
the project area to the east.

Implementation of Alternative 3 would result in an elevated risk of impacts to undetected
sites throughout the project area due to the increased amount of ground disturbance along the
2.2 mile transmission line segment from powerhouse to marine facilities as well as the 4.2
mile transmission line segment from the marine facility to Kootznahoo Inlet in addition to
ground disturbance associated with building a road, the transmission line corridor,
powerhouse construction, dam, pipeline and penstock, marine facility, garage, and temporary
camp and facilities built to serve during project construction.

During project layout and design the engineers should work closely with the archaeologist to
ensure historic properties are avoided through careful planning. The archaeologist will also
be required to be on site during project implementation to ensure avoidance of the site during
project layout was successful.

ALTERNATIVE 4 (SUBMARINE CABLE)

Historic properties would not be expected to be affected under Alternative 4, as this
alternative was developed to eliminate uplands impacts associated with the construction of an
access road and transmission line. The southern terminus of the submarine cable would be
near the existing generating facilities in Angoon.

Implementation of Alternative 4 would result in a decreased risk of impacts to undetected
sites throughout the project area due to the decreased amount of ground disturbance
associated with a submarine cable. However there would continue to be potential for affects
to undetected sites along the 2.2 mile transmission line segment and access road from the
powerhouse to marine facilities as well as the construction of a powerhouse, marine facilities,
and temporary camp and facilities built to serve during project construction.

3.12 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL

CONSEQUENCES - SUBSISTENCE

This section discusses the subsistence resources of the Angoon Hydroelectric Project area as
well as the potential effects associated with the alternatives. Information in this section was
drawn from the Wildlife Specialist report for this project which in turn tiers to the detailed
subsistence information and analyses in the Forest Plan FEIS (USDA Forest Service 2008b).
Section 810 of ANILCA requires the Forest Service to evaluate the potential effects on
subsistence uses and needs, followed by specific notice and determination procedures should
there be a significant possibility of a significant restriction of subsistence uses.

An ANILCA 810 analysis commonly focuses on those food-related resources most likely to
be affected by habitat degradation associated with land management activities and addresses
three factors related to subsistence uses: 1) resources distribution and abundance; 2) access
to resources; and 3) competition for the use of resources. The evaluation determines whether
subsistence uses within the project area or portions thereof may be significantly restricted, as
defined by the Alaska Land Use Council, by any of the proposed alternatives.

3.12.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - SUBSISTENCE

The following paragraphs summarize the subsistence resources of the project area and
characterize the subsistence use of the area by local residents. The Forest Plan FEIS
subsistence analysis found that the primary subsistence resource likely to be significantly
affected by the Forest Plan alternatives was Sitka black-tailed deer. As a result of their
association with old-growth forest habitat, deer are considered the “indicator” for potential
subsistence resource consequences concerning the abundance and distribution of the
resources. Additional information and analysis about the community of Angoon is presented
in Section 3.11 (Socioeconomics). Section 3.4 describes fisheries resources and effects in
greater detail, and wildlife resources, including deer, are addressed in Sections 3.6 (Wildlife)
and 3.7 (Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Species).

3.12.1.1 Affected Environment - Subsistence Use and Resources in the Project
Area

Subsistence hunting, fishing, and gathering activities are important to the residents of
Angoon. Angoon is considered rural under ANILCA and is one of the most traditional
Tlingit villages in Southeast Alaska. The community places a high value on Native cultural
heritage and tradition, including subsistence hunting, fishing and gathering, and sharing
harvest products. The use of locally available wild foods makes important contributions to
the local economy, providing a significant and reliable source of food to nearly all residents
(George and Bosworth 1988).

ADFG household surveys indicate that between 97 and 100 percent of Angoon’s households
harvested and used from 216 to 244 pounds of subsistence resources perperson per year.
Salmon (71-82 pounds/person) and deer (51-73 pounds/person) are the most used resources
followed by halibut, harbor seal, and marine invertebrates. Berries, herring roe, and
seaweed/kelp had high rates of use but lower pounds per person (ADFG 2001).
The project occurs in Wildlife Analysis Areas (WAA) 4042 and 4054. These WAA are
important to Angoon residents’ subsistence deer harvest. ADFG hunter survey reports
indicate that residents of Juneau, Haines, and Sitka harvest deer in these WAA, but they do
not obtain a large proportion of their deer here.

Based on ADFG harvest estimates for the area, demand appears stable for the last 11 seasons
with average deer harvest for all hunters at 43.5 deer harvested per year in WAA 4042 and 31
deer per year in WAA 4054 (Scott 2008). Angoon hunters take approximately half of the
deer harvested in these WAA (USDA FS 2008b). Current harvest rates in these two WAA
are well below the sustainable harvest with reasonable success threshold of ten percent of
carrying capacity (USDA FS 1997).

3.12.2 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS ON SUBSISTENCE

The following subsections describe the effects on Sitka black-tailed deer that would be
expected to result from project implementation. Effects on fisheries resources are described
in Section 3.5. The proposed Angoon Hydroelectric Project would not be expected to
significantly restrict any other subsistence uses within the project area.

3.12.2.1 Effects – Subsistence Use and Resources in the Project Area

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

Alternative 1 would have no effects on subsistence resources because there would be no
project related changes to deer abundance and distribution, access, or competition.

ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, AND 4

Based on the MIS analysis for deer, no substantial changes in deer distribution or abundance
are expected from implementing any alternative. Alternative 2 would cause the loss of 0.3%
of the quality deer winter habitat in the analysis area, while Alternatives 3 and 4 would cause
the loss of less than 0.1% of the quality deer winter habitat. Alternatives 2 and 3 would
provide 7.6 and 8.3 miles of new road, closed to motorized traffic, respectively. The new
road would provide a relatively easy walking path into the area where none existed before
and result in improved access for hunters. Access improvements would be less for
Alternative 4 compared to Alternatives 2 and 3. There would be a longer boat ride through
less protected water to access the road from Angoon. This alternative would still improve
access for hunters compared to the existing condition.

These alternatives are not expected to cause a long-term increase in competition for use of
resources in the analysis area. Existing harvest of deer is well below what should be
sustainable. This alternative would not favor any other community or group over Angoon
residents. During construction, some or most of the construction workers may be from
communities other than Angoon. This alternative could increase hunting demand in the
analysis area during the construction period but would not be expected to increase demand
over the long term. The SUA will include a stipulation that Kootznoowoo develop measures
to control hunting, trapping, and fishing within the project boundary by the construction
workforce.

These alternatives do not pose a significant possibility of a significant restriction on
subsistence.

3.13 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES - WILDERNESS

The following paragraphs discuss the Wilderness character of the area surrounding the
Angoon Hydroelectric Project area, and the potential effects associated with the alternatives.
Congress through ANILCA exempted the project area from requirements of the Wilderness
Act (ANILCA 506 (a)(3)(D)). This analysis focuses on the effects this project may have on
wilderness resources outside of the defined project area, T.49S. R.67E. and T.50S. R.67E.
Copper River Base and Meridian. The information in this section was drawn from the
Wilderness resource report prepared for this project, which is on file at the Admiralty Island
National Monument office.

3.13.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - WILDERNESS

The proposed project is largely located within the Kootznoowoo Wilderness. The project
area and transmission corridor are assigned a Transportation and Utility System Land Use
Designation (TUS LUD). A portion of the proposed access road and powerline route is on
lands owned by Kootznoowoo, Inc., just north of Kootznahoo Inlet. The Wilderness Act of
1964 directs “each agency administering any area designated as wilderness shall be
responsible for preserving the wilderness character of the area.” Section 2(c) defines four
qualities of wilderness that managers try to preserve:
Untrammeled, or unhindered and free from modern human control, including places where
natural forces operate without man’s management and manipulation.
No management actions taken in the project area have manipulated the vegetation, soils or
watershed function. No animal species have been introduced to this project area, although red
squirrels have established themselves throughout Admiralty Island from an introduction
approximately 60 years ago. There is no management presence at Thayer Creek or along the
proposed road corridor to Angoon, in contrast to the regular presence of rangers in Mitchell
Bay. No permits are required to visit the project area. There are no designated campsites
required for recreational camping, nor any Forest Closure Orders limiting access to forest
lands.

Natural, where ecological systems are substantially free from the effects of modern
civilization such as manipulation of vegetation, soils, air quality or other physical and
biological components of Wilderness.

No roads or trails have been constructed in the project area. Timber harvest has taken place
in the past, but has been limited to hand logging of single trees or possibly of small stands.
Botanical surveys have found five species of exotic plants along shorelines. Populations of
fish and wildlife appear to be unaffected by habitat alteration, invasive species, or other
human activities.

Undeveloped, or without permanent improvements or modern human occupation such as
structures, habitations, dams, or other evidence of human presence or occupation.

Thayer Creek flows unimpeded from its source at Thayer Lake to its outlet at Chatham Strait.
The stream meanders slowly through several miles of riparian habitat before descending
precipitously through a narrow gorge just above the mouth. There is another small section of
meander near the mouth on a relatively level bench bordering Chatham Strait. There are no
human structures or facilities along the length of Thayer Creek, nor along the proposed road
corridor linking the creek to Angoon. One undeveloped campsite is located on the bank of
the creek near the mouth, but it contains little evidence of only temporary human use. Other
current evidence of human use includes three white metal cross memorials on the peninsula
approximately 1.8 miles south of Thayer Creek. There are no current cabins or tent platforms
authorized by the Forest Service and no known trespass structures.

Outstanding Opportunities for Solitude or a Primitive and Unconfined Type of
Recreation, this is the one quality that defines the human experience in Wilderness. It also
includes the values of inspiration or of physical and mental challenge as defined in FSM
2320.3, Wilderness Management.

The project area borders Chatham Strait and is a few miles from the community of Angoon.
People use the area for subsistence deer hunting and fishing, largely along the shoreline.
Recreational fishing, boating, and picnicking also occur along the shore, especially near the
mouth of Thayer Creek. Industrial, recreational, and community boat traffic in Chatham
Strait reduce opportunities for solitude along the shore. Opportunities for solitude farther
inland are much higher because there is little on-shore use during most of the year. The
Forest Plan designates most of the shoreline of west Admiralty Island, including the project
area, in the “Primitive” class of the Recreation Opportunity Spectrum. The management
standards for this class include encounters with two or fewer other groups per day and no
other groups seen from campsites. Although access by water and aircraft is allowed under
ANILCA exceptions to the Wilderness Act, use ashore involves walking and hiking off trail.
There are no noticeable signs or interpretive facilities, nor any management presence.

Despite the proximity to the community of Angoon and history of subsistence use, the
project area has a high degree of natural and undeveloped conditions, and it contains
outstanding opportunities for solitude or primitive and unconfined experiences. The
Wilderness character is very high, as is typical for most of the Kootznoowoo Wilderness.

3.13.2 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS ON WILDERNESS

3.13.2.1 Effects – Wilderness

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

Under the No Action alternative, no change in the Wilderness character of the project area or
the surrounding Wilderness would be expected.

ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, AND 4

All action alternatives would diminish the wilderness character in the project area. The
developments associated with Alternatives 2, 3, and 4 would manipulate vegetation, disturb
the ground and build and maintain facilities and structures. However, these actions and
facilities are allowed and appropriate in the TUS LUD. Since Congress exempted the project
area from requirements of the Wilderness Act through ANILCA section 506 (a)(3)(D) this
section focuses on the effects in adjacent wilderness lands.

The effects of all action alternatives on adjacent Wilderness character outside the project area
(those areas not exempted from the Wilderness Act) are as follows:

Negative effects on the Untrammeled and Natural aspects of Wilderness character would
likely be confined to the project area, whereas effects to the Undeveloped aspect would
occur beyond the project area. Any action alternative would decrease the primeval character
and influence of the Wilderness as a whole if new structures and developments are installed.
Some of the developments may be noticeable to anyone using the air or water travel routes
along east Chatham Strait. Effects to the Outstanding opportunities for solitude or
primitive and unconfined recreation, would also occur beyond the project area. Lands to
the north and east of the project area will be less remote as a result of the structures,
installations and roads constructed under any action alternative. Since roads will be closed to
unauthorized entry they will not improve access to adjacent Wilderness lands but they will be
visible or the authorized use of them will be audible from some of the adjacent lands.
Alternative 2 would have the largest effect on Wilderness character in the Kootznooowoo
Wilderness as a whole. The inclusion of more road and more suspended transmission line
would not only be more visible from adjacent areas, but may also require more maintenance
and the associated use of vehicles and other motorized or mechanized tools that impact the
undeveloped condition of Wilderness character.

Alternative 3 would reduce the amount of visible impact but still requires a maintenance
corridor overland from Kootznahoo Inlet.

Alternative 4 would have the least impact of the action alternatives because of the
elimination of the overland transmission corridor beyond the marine facility.

3.14 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES - SOCIAL ECONOMICS

3.14.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT – SOCIAL ECONOMICS

The following information is summarized from information provided by Kootznoowoo in the
HDR Feasibility Evaluation Report as well as public comments during preparation of this
EIS. The HDR report also includes socio-economic data from other sources.

3.14.1.1 Affected Environment - Economics

POPULATION

According to the latest population estimate available from the U.S. Census Bureau, the
population in the city of Angoon was 487 people in 2004, down from 573 people in 2000,
and 638 people in 1990 (U.S. Census Bureau 1990, 2000, 2004). This downward population
trend is likely due to lack of high-paying jobs in Angoon (USDA Forest Service 2002b).
More than 80 percent of the population is American Indian/Alaskan Native (U.S. Census
2000).

COMMUNITY COHESION

Translated from Tlingit, Angoon means "Town on the Portage" and is the only permanent
community on Admiralty Island (Kootznoowoo 2006). Tlingit culture places a strong
emphasis on family and kinship. Angoon is divided up into clans, and the predominant clan
in Angoon is the Bear Clan (USDA Forest Service 2006). Within each clan are various
houses. In Tlingit villages like Angoon, clan houses remain an important part of daily life,
and are used to host meetings and celebrations. Angoon’s strong indigenous heritage is
evident in the painted fronts of the 16 clan houses (Welcome to Alaska 2006). In addition to
the clan houses, Angoon has modern houses, school buildings, a general store, a lodge, and a
bed and breakfast. There are no restaurants.

According to the U.S. Census, there were 228 housing units in Angoon in 2000 (U.S. Census
2000). Thirty-three of these units were vacant, and of these vacant housing units, 22 were
used for seasonal, recreational, or occasional use. Of the occupied housing, 123 were owneroccupied
and 72 were renter occupied.

Western culture has greatly influenced Angoon, and there is a concern about the loss of the
Tlingit language and way of life (USDA Forest Service 2002b). Due to increasing contact
with the western world, community leaders are looking for ways to maintain the Tlingit
cultural identity. Angoon is a dry community; it is illegal to possess alcohol anywhere within
the village limits.

RECREATION

Tourists use the area for sport fishing and camping (USDA Forest Service 2002b). Three
outfitters are authorized to operate on National Forest in the area. Other outfitters work on
private lands and the surrounding marine waters in Mitchell Bay and Chatham Straits.

ECONOMY

Commercial fishing is a major source of income in Angoon, and 59 residents hold
commercial fishing permits (Welcome to Alaska 2006). A shellfish farm venture was
recently funded by state and federal grants. The largest employer in Angoon is the Chatham
School District. Logging on Prince of Wales Island provides occasional jobs. Subsistence
remains an important part of the lifestyle. The most important resources are deer, salmon,
bear, halibut, shellfish, geese, and berries. In a 2001 survey, Angoon residents ranked
subsistence use 10 out of 10 in terms of importance to the community (USDA Forest Service
2002b).

The unemployment rate in 1999 was 12.95 percent, although 50 percent of all adults were not
in the work force (Welcome to Alaska 2006). Per capita income in Angoon in 1999 was
$11,357 and median household income was $29,861 (U.S. Census 2000). Almost 30 percent
of the population (160 people), was living under the poverty level in 1999. According to the
Mitchell Bay Landscape Assessment, Angoon shows potential signs of economic distress
(USDA Forest Service 2002b).

A Cold Storage Fish Buying Station was recently constructed in Angoon. The community of
Angoon identified this project, as well as the hydroelectric project and others during a 2001
town meeting on economic development (USDA Forest Service 2001).

PUBLIC SERVICES

Angoon has one school attended by about 125 students (Welcome to Alaska 2006). The
Angoon Health Clinic provides health services, and Angoon EMS/Ambulance provides
auxiliary health care. Scheduled and charter float plane services are available from the stateowned
seaplane base on Kootznahoo Inlet. Angoon has a deep draft dock, a small boat
harbor, and state ferry terminal. The Alaska Marine Highway provides regular ferry service
to Angoon. Freight arrives by barge and ferry.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is proposing to build an airport to provide
commercial service to the City of Angoon. The analysis for an environmental impact
statement is currently ongoing.

Utilities

Angoon has a piped drinking water system, and more than 95 percent of the homes in the
community have complete plumbing (Welcome to Alaska 2008). A secondary treatment
plant processes sewage, which flows to an ocean outfall. The City collects refuse and hauls it
to a landfill located approximately 2 miles from Angoon. Angoon is accessible only by float
plane or boat (Welcome to Angoon 2008).

The Inside Passage Electrical Cooperative (IPEC) a non-profit, member owned electrical
utility serves Angoon, Hoonah, Kake, Kluckwan and the Chilkat Valley. IPEC is the
electrical utility provider certified by the Regulatory Commission of Alaska (RCA) to
generate and sell electricity in Angoon using diesel-fueled generators. The two existing
diesel-fueled generators have a combined capacity of 1,115 kilowatts (one at 565 kW and
one at 550 kW).

In 2006 IPEC purchased 167,379 gallons of diesel fuel which was delivered by barge over a
marine transfer pipe facility to bulk fuel storage tanks. IPEC has three 20,000 gallon bulk
fuel tanks and a 2,000 gallon day tank at Angoon for a total capacity of 62,000 gallons. Fuel
was delivered to IPEC's tanks five times in 2006, sometimes during inclement weather (IPEC
2007).

IPEC's average cost of fuel has risen from $0.7932 per gallon in 1998 to $2.4893 in 2006; an
increase of 314%. IPEC's member-owners already pay some of the highest electric rates in
the nation, with the 2006 average cost of $0.4623 per kWh. The fuel component of IPEC's
cost per kWh sold increased from $0.0811 in 1998 to $0.1998 in 2006 (IPEC 2007). Fuel
efficiency based on the average efficiency achieved in 1997 is 13.2 kWh/gallon of diesel fuel
(HDR 2000).

Existing Electrical Loads

For the period 1992-97, energy sales in Angoon increased each year until 1997, when sales
decreased 10%. By 2000 peak loads in Angoon were relatively stable at approximately 425
kW, and average electrical loads were about 230 kW (HDR, 2000). The loads are somewhat
seasonal, with peak loads in the winter months. The table below provides a typical monthly
distribution of peak and average loads. Note that the loads shown in Table 3-11 are average
values for five years of data. In any one year there may be much greater variability in the
loads.

Table 3-11. Alternative 2 (Proposed Action) costs (in year 2000 dollars)

Source: HDR Alaska, Inc. 3 March 2000

AIR QUALITY AND CARBON DIOXIDE EMISSIONS

Because of Angoon’s location at the entrance to Mitchell Bay along Chatham Straits seasonal
wind patterns tend to provide adequate dispersal of airborne pollutants from domestic and
industrial sources. The two diesel generators that currently provide electrical power for
Angoon operate under the State of Alaska Air Permits Program Preapproved Emissions Limit
(PAEL) and are listed as a fuel limited facility (PAEL number AQ0101PL201). Under this
program the Angoon facility is limited to a maximum annual consumption of 324,282 gallons
of diesel fuel. During 2006 the facility used 153,591 gallons; well within authorized limits.
While fuel consumption varies based on electrical demand this represents an average
consumption of approximately 420 gallons/day.

The increase in carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere is of particular concern as the effects
of climate change are being felt around the world. Diesel fuel emits approximately 22
pounds of carbon dioxide for each gallon of fuel burned. Since the existing facility burned
153,591 gallons of diesel in 2006 that represents about 1,700 tons per year or an average of
4.7 tons per day.

3.14.2 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS ON SOCIAL ECONOMICS

3.14.2.1 Effects – Economics

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

The two existing diesel-fueled generators have a combined capacity of 1,115 kilowatts (one
at 565 kW and one at 550 kW). Diesel generators of this size should last, if properly
maintained, for 150,000 or more operating hours.

The existing diesel generator capacity is sufficient to meet loads through 2027 if peak
requirements increase at 1 percent annually. However, if the resources are retired prior to
then or loads increase at a greater rate, then capacity shortfalls would occur prior to 2027. A
2 percent load growth would result in capacity shortfalls after 2014 (HDR 2000).
With fuel deliveries by barge of 27,000 to 38,000 gallon range at each delivery, five times
per year, the potential for a large fuel spill exists. The consequences of a spill, either during
fuel delivery or from bulk storage facilities, would be devastating to the waterfront and
surroundings of Angoon as well as commercial and recreational fisheries in, and adjacent to,
Mitchell Bay.

Under the No Action alternative, electricity prices, already exceptionally high, would
continue to fluctuate based on crude oil prices, potentially leading to further population
decline. Continuing high electrical rates would also limit opportunities for economic growth
and the present high rate of unemployment would continue or increase.
Under Alternative 1 (No Action) the current permit would allow for considerable growth in
fossil fuel use with corresponding carbon dioxide and air pollution emissions.

ALTERNATIVES 2, 3, AND 4

All action alternatives would result in the development of a hydroelectric facility at Thayer
Creek which would greatly reduce dependence on existing diesel generation facilities.
Because of variations in water flow in the creek, no alternative would meet peak electrical
demands at all times. One, or both, of the existing generators would be needed to insure
uninterrupted electrical power but would only be needed during outages at the hydropower
facility or when seasonal demand exceeded available generating capacity. As a result, some
bulk fuel storage would continue to be required as well as routine maintenance of the
generators.

The project has the potential to generate about 8.5 million kWh/year, which is over 4 times
the annual Angoon energy requirement based on 2000 consumption figures (2.0 million
kWh/year). The HDR report concluded that the hydropower project, based on minimum instream
flow requirements of 20 cfs (Alternative 2), would be able to supply all of Angoon’s
power needs at 2000 load levels over 99% of the time, with supplementary diesel generation
required on an average of 2 days per year. This would likely coincide with periods of low
flow in Thayer Creek and high electrical demand in winter. Future growth in electrical
demand, and/or higher minimum in-stream flow requirements, would result in additional cogeneration
requirement. Following publication of the DEIS additional modeling of seasonal
flows was done based on extensive flow data from Hasselborg Creek. The modeling
generally agreed with the HDR conclusions although the days needed for supplementary
generation vary somewhat based on this newer, more accurate data. See section 3.4.2.1,
Hydrology in this EIS for more detailed information. That information indicates the number
of days requiring supplementary diesel generation would be 4 days at 2000 load levels in
Alternative 2.

The specific effects of hydropower development on the electrical rates for Angoon include a
number of variables that cannot be accurately predicted at the conceptual stage. The HDR
feasibility report includes an update of the 1998 Angoon Power Supply Study to provide an
estimate of costs in 2000 dollars. The report also provides a detailed description of several
factors including:

• future operation/ownership of the facility,
• present and predicted future fuel costs and consumption,
• average cost of power at 10, 30 and 50 years, with and without project development,
• potential growth in electrical demand and
• potential future availability of other electrical sources.
• Funding sources for construction

Under all action alternatives, assuming grant funding of construction, Angoon would realize
reduced electrical rates which would remain relatively stable over the life of the project.
Alternative 2 (Proposed Action) was developed based on the Selected Project Arrangement
provided to the Forest Service by Kootznoowoo. Table 3-12 is a summary of estimated
construction costs for Alternative 2 (HDR 2000). A much more detailed construction cost
discussion is included in the feasibility report, which may be found in the planning record.

Table 3-12. Alternative 2 (Proposed Action) costs (in year 2000 dollars)

Operating and maintenance cost for both the hydropower facility and backup diesel facility
were estimated by HDR at about $85,000 per year in 1999 dollars.

Construction of the project would take 1 to 2 years and additional employment and income
may be created while the project is being constructed. Short-term construction activities are
not expected to adversely affect Angoon although housing needs and logistical support
during construction may temporarily increase population and stimulate some sectors of the
local economy. Existing public services and utilities would not be adversely affected.
It is assumed that operation of the hydroelectric facility would utilize the same number of
staff that operate the diesel facility and no long term increase in direct employment would
occur.

An indirect effect of all action alternatives would be that some of the economic development
projects identified by the community of Angoon would be more economically feasible,
particularly those with high electricity demands. These economic development projects
would in turn create jobs for the community and keep the population from declining further.
During an Economic Initiatives town meeting in 2001, the community of Angoon identified
the hydroelectric project as one of the top 11 high priority economic development projects
(USDA Forest Service 2002b).

Alternative 3 and 4 differ economically from the Proposed Action (Alternative 2) primarily
in terms of construction and maintenance costs of burying the transmission line (Alternative
3) or utilizing a buried/submarine transmission line (Alternative 4). Alternatives 3 and 4
would reduce or eliminate certain adverse resource effects created by the Proposed Action
but would result in differing costs and have differing advantages and disadvantages.

Table 3-13, derived from data provided by Kootznoowoo in their feasibility study (HDR
2000), summarizes both the cost differences and general trade-offs for each transmission line
configuration.

Table 3-13. Transmission Line Configuration Comparison

An overhead transmission line represents the least expensive configuration to construct,
although it is much more susceptible to damage during severe weather than a buried or
submerged line. Because there would be no connection to the Angoon road system, repair
and maintenance, especially during winter months, would be relatively difficult and
expensive. In order to reduce the potential for wind throw damage under Alternative 2
vegetation would have to be cleared for approximately one tree-height on either side of the
overhead line. The cost of clearing and continued maintenance of this corridor would, to
some degree, offset the additional cost of burying the transmission line.

Alternative 3 would require that the transmission line be buried where technically feasible to
minimize the visual effects of clearing and of an overhead line. As displayed above, this type
of installation is somewhat more expensive than an overhead line but is a common method
and practice in the industry. At this conceptual stage there is insufficient field information
for an accurate assessment of subsurface conditions along the proposed route. As a result
installation costs are more uncertain and may increase considerably if extensive bedrock
excavation is required. Because a buried line would be relatively protected from weather
related damage, maintenance costs would be lower and reliability of the system higher than
with an overhead line. As a result the unanticipated costs of diesel generation during power
outages would be less.

Submerged electrical transmission lines are fairly common but costly, and require
specialized, expensive equipment for installation and maintenance. Because this specialized
equipment is not readily available, a failure of a submerged line would likely result in
significant delays for repairs and extended dependence on diesel power generation. Backup
generators and fuel storage facilities would have to be designed to accommodate these
delays.

Under all action alternatives the need for supplemental diesel generation would be controlled
by minimum in-stream flow requirements, electrical demand and unplanned power outages.
The discussion of hydrology and potential interruptions in hydropower generation are
discussed in the hydrology section of this chapter along with estimated days of diesel
generation for each alternative. As with the No Action alternative, the diesel facility would
be well within current air quality permit requirements and emissions would be proportional
to the days of operation.

In general the highest demand and lowest stream flows occur during winter months. Higher
minimum in-stream flow requirements under Alternatives 3 and 4 could result in the need for
more diesel generation during this period. Alternative 2, because the overhead line is more
susceptible to damage during winter storms, could also result unplanned diesel use. The
submerged transmission line in Alternative 4 would not be significantly affected by weather
conditions but, if damaged, would be difficult to repair and likely require extended
dependence on diesel generation. The buried line required in Alternative 3 would be best
protected from weather damage and, as with an overhead line, could be repaired using
normal practices and equipment so as to reduce repair time.

In terms of recreation, during the construction period for the approved facilities, one of the
approved outfitters may suffer some short-term affects due to the increased activities in the
area. This outfitter is approved for brown bear hunting within Unit 04-10. The hunting unit
is large enough that he will be able to provide a service to his clients away from the
construction area. The other two outfitters are permitted for day use and overnight hiking
trips that are well outside the analysis area.

In terms of fuel, spills, and carbon dioxide emissions, less fuel would be needed to generate
electricity under the action alternatives; therefore, fewer fuel deliveries would be needed. By
reducing the number and size of fuel deliveries, the potential for a large fuel spill is reduced
in Alternatives 2, 3, and 4. As with other emissions, the production of carbon dioxide would
be proportional to the need for supplementary diesel generation under each alternative.

3.15 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
CONSEQUENCES - TRANSPORTATION

The following paragraphs discuss the Transportation facilities related to Angoon
Hydroelectric Project area, and the potential effects associated with the alternatives. The
information in this section was drawn from the Transportation resource report prepared for
this project, which is on file at the Admiralty Island National Monument office.

3.15.1 AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT - TRANSPORTATION

The proposed project is largely located within the Kootznoowoo Wilderness and a portion on
lands owned by Kootznoowoo, Inc. There are no roads on the Admiralty Island portion of
the project area.

3.15.2 DIRECT AND INDIRECT EFFECTS ON TRANSPORTATION

Table 3-14. Roads on the Angoon Hydroelectric Project

* 0.2 miles of temporary road will be built to the surge tank and decommissioned in Alternative 2.

3.15.2.1 Effects – Transportation

ALTERNATIVE 1 (NO ACTION)

Under the No Action alternative, no change in the transportation facilities of the project area
would be expected; the area would remain inaccessible to motorized vehicles.

EFFECTS COMMON TO ALL ACTION ALTERNATIVES

The proposed roads present challenges typical to Southeast Alaska road construction. There
are road segments where sides slopes greater than 67% will be encountered. In the following
section and in the road cards, the road segment from the marine facilities to the power plant
is called the “Powerhouse” road, the segment from the power plant to the diversion dam is
called the “Pipeline” road, and the segment from the marine facilities to Angoon is called the
“Line” road. The Line road is divided by a large stream near MP 0.8. The preliminary road
location did not attempt to find a crossing, which would be very difficult and expensive.
Rather, multiple road headings, one from the Angoon side and one from the Little Island side
were located instead. A bridge will be necessary across Thayer Creek. Other large stream
crossings will require large culverts or bridges. Best Management Practices will be
implemented to protect resources before, during, and after road construction. Specific BMPs
and additional details about the roads are provided in the road cards. All new road locations
and design will meet Forest Plan Standards and Guidelines (2008 Forest Plan, pages 4-80
through 4-87). Effects of roads on other resources are discussed in those resource sections
and reports.

The use of the proposed road segments will be limited to administrative and project use only.
A physical closure device, such as a gate, would be installed near Angoon to prevent motor
vehicle use. The road system will be under the jurisdiction of Kootznoowoo, Inc.

ALTERNATIVE 2

Alternative 2 as proposed consists of road construction on karst terrain for segments of the
Powerhouse road. To construct road in this location would require a non-significant
amendment to the Forest Plan. The Pipeline road parallels Thayer Creek and would be very
costly to construct due to the amount of full bench construction and rock outcrops. The Line
road as proposed under this alternative would cross a 100-foot deep notch and require a large
bridge. The road would be significantly more difficult to construct because of steep grades
and slopes than the road shown in Alternative 3 and the Road Cards.

ALTERNATIVE 3

The proposed road segment from the Thayer Creek bridge site to the dam site was located in
Alternatives 3 and 4 to avoid the steep slopes directly above Thayer Creek. An effort was
also made to skirt around the wetland areas whenever possible. Alternative 3 as proposed
avoids much of the difficult road construction challenges and all of the karst encountered in
Alternative 2. Alternative 3 road route follows the preferred road location. Details for the
roads are contained in the Road Cards.

ALTERNATIVE 4

Alternative 4 would construct the Pipeline and Powerhouse roads along the same alignment
as Alternative 3. Details of these roads are contained in the Road Cards. The Line road
would not be required since a submarine cable would be installed from the Marine Access
Facility to the Village of Angoon.

3.16 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS AND
IRREVERSIBLE AND IRRETRIEVABLE RESOURCE
COMMITMENTS

3.16.1 UNAVOIDABLE ADVERSE IMPACTS

GEOLOGY

Once a road cut is made across the landscape it is difficult to return to the natural slope
profile and drainage conditions. The facilities proposed for this project are the only sources
of ground disturbance in the area. Consequently, erosion or drainage from them, as controlled
through the application of BMPs described above, would be small relative to the project area.
If in the future the project is abandoned, an abandonment plan prepared as part of the SUA
would prescribe the removal of all authorized improvements and restoration of the sites
(SUA clause V.d). In addition the Code of Federal Regulations (36CFR 261.9, 261.10)
provides the means to enforce the removal and restoration of improvements, if necessary.
BMPs 14.5, 14.8, 14.18, 14.24, and 14.25 would be applied during site restoration operations
to reduce erosion and restore vegetation.

WATER RESOURCES

Short-term turbidity and sedimentation would increase in Thayer Creek below the diversion
because of the developments that would occur under Alternatives 2, 3, and 4. Gravel road
segments near creeks, or ditches that drain to the creek would deliver fine sediment to Thayer
Creek during storm runoff periods. The application of BMPs, limited use of the roads, and
regular maintenance of the roads and facilities would prevent or reduce the level of
sedimentation to near natural levels.

The reduction of stream flow between the diversion dam and the power plant would continue
as long as the plant is in operation. Required instream flows would maintain sufficient flows
to maintain channel configuration and function. In addition, high flows would continue to
flow through the stream channel and would maintain a flow pattern similar to natural
conditions.

If in the future the power plant is abandoned the natural level and pattern of flow would be
restored by removal of the diversion dam and pipeline.

FISHERIES

Reduction of Thayer Creek flows and loss of cutthroat trout and anadromous fish habitat
would be an unavoidable adverse impact associated with this project. If in the future the
project is abandoned, an abandonment plan prepared as part of the SUA would prescribe the
removal of all authorized improvements and restoration of the sites (SUA clause V.d),
including the dam. Stream flows and the sediment budget would be restored in Reaches C
and B, and fish would be able to recolonize them.

VEGETATION

Even with the implementation of design elements intended to minimize the potential negative
effects of Alternatives 2 , 3, and 4, project implementation would result in unavoidable
adverse impacts to vegetation (including beach fringe), and wetlands.

WETLANDS

Avoidance of wetlands where practicable, along with implementation of mitigation measures,
would likely reduce but not entirely eliminate adverse affects to wetlands. Such affects would
include permanent loss of wetlands within road prisms and at construction sites, e.g., power
plant, port facilities. In addition, the introduction of fill material for road construction may
affect surface or subsurface hydrology. In some cases, ponding may occur on the upstream
side of the road bed; in others, side ditches or coarse fill may act as a conduit, reducing
saturation of soils in the vicinity of the roadway. These and other effects may also influence
wetland vegetation in the vicinity of road corridors.

WILDLIFE

Reduced stream flow in Thayer Creek below the diversion dam would reduce the availability
of habitat and foraging opportunities for river otter and some migratory bird species. In
addition, reduced availability of suitable spawning substrate would diminish foraging
opportunities for wildlife species that depend on salmon, such as brown bear. Also, the
increased human presence associated with project construction and operation would
inevitably increase the risk of human/bear encounters. Some old-growth forest habitat would
be converted to road, buildings, shrub, and aquatic habitat.

THREATENED, ENDANGERED, AND SENSITIVE SPECIES

Elevated levels of human activity associated with construction and maintenance of the
hydroelectric facility and related project components may disturb species that are sensitive to
human presence, such as Queen Charlotte goshawk and osprey. Clearing of vegetation for the
transmission lines, access roads, and construction staging areas would reduce the availability
of potential nesting and foraging habitat for Queen Charlotte goshawks. Clearing that occurs
near the shoreline may reduce the availability of potential nesting, feeding, and perching
trees for osprey. These habitat changes may affect individuals but would not cause a trend
toward listing.

SCENERY

The project area is in designated Wilderness, and currently does not include any visible signs
of modification from the natural landscape. Viewers would perceive any visible modification
to the project area that does not look like a natural disturbance or landscape pattern as an
adverse effect. Although all action alternatives would meet the standards and guidelines for
the Transportation and Utilities Systems (TUS) land use designation, all three action
alternatives include elements that would be visible and contrast with the surrounding
landscape.

As recognized by the standards and guidelines for the TUS land use designation, major
infrastructure projects generally contrast with the surrounding forestland, often leading to
impacts on the scenery for sensitive viewers. Visitors to the project area who have an
expectation of viewing wilderness would likely perceive the changes to the landscape
negatively.

CULTURAL RESOURCES

Any ground-disturbing activity carries the risk of damage to buried or otherwise hidden
historic properties. Measures can be taken to avoid affects to know historic properties include
the working closely with the archaeologist during project lay out to avoid adverse effects to
historic properties supplemented with the presence of archaeological monitors during project
construction. These two measures would be expected to minimize the potential for adverse
effects to significant historic and prehistoric resources.

SUBSISTENCE

Impeding deer movement by the development of the transmission lines and road, and laying
the pipeline is an unavoidable impact on Sitka black-tail deer. While individual deer,
especially fawns, may be unable to negotiate the obstacles, the deer population overall would
be able to circumvent them and maintain normal movement patterns.

WILDERNESS

All action alternatives would diminish the untrammeled, natural, and undeveloped
characteristics of the project area, and outstanding opportunities for solitude characters in the
project area. Negative effects on the untrammeled and natural aspects of Wilderness
character would likely be confined to the project area, whereas effects to the undeveloped
aspect and outstanding opportunities for solitude would occur beyond the project area. The
Forest Service recognizes that Congress exempted the project area from requirements of the
Wilderness Act through ANILCA section 506 (a)(3)(D).

SOCIAL ECONOMICS

The proposed project would not have any unavoidable adverse impacts on social economics
in Angoon.

3.16.2 IRREVERSIBLE AND IRRETRIEVABLE RESOURCE
COMMITMENTS

An irreversible commitment of resources refers to the loss of production or use of a resource
due to a land use decision, that once execute, cannot be changed. An irretrievable
commitment of resources applies to losses of production or use of renewable resources for a
period of time.

Minor amounts of soil loss and displacement would result from any of the alternatives.
Overall, there would be some soil loss due to erosion, and a slight increase in sediment
production with any of the action alternatives. Road construction in Alternatives 2, 3, and 4
would cause the greatest concentration of soil displacement and sediment movement. BMPs
would be adequate to keep impacts within acceptable limits set forth in the Forest Plan.

Soil loss from roads and rock used for road construction would be irreversible. Wetland loss
from roads, staging areas and a powerhouse would be irreversible since they would be rocked
over.

Wilderness and scenic values in the project area, fish habitat in the bypass section of Thayer
Creek, and some wildlife habitat would be irretrievable during the life of the hydroelectric
facilities. If the project is abandoned, these uses would be restored though possibly not to the
current level.

3.17 CUMULATIVE EFFECTS

Resource-appropriate areas for cumulative effects analysis were identified in resource
reports. For example, the soil and wetland analysis areas for cumulative effects are all
watersheds on which road building may occur, and the cumulative effects area for water
resources includes the Thayer Creek watershed and the coastal areas and unnamed streams
from immediately north of Thayer Creek south to Kootznahoo Inlet.

This project is located mainly in the Admiralty Island National Monument and Kootznoowoo
Wilderness. The project area is covered under the Alaska National Interest Lands
Conservation Act of 1980 (ANILCA). However, the act specifically exempted the
hydropower project from the requirements of the Wilderness Act. Therefore, the proposed
hydroelectric facility and associated development is the first development allowed within the
Wilderness portion of the project area. Other activities such as recreational use and activity
related to a private sport-fishing lodge at Thayer Lake occur in the Wilderness area but are
not known to have any effects on streamflow or water quality.

Because most resources’ cumulative effects areas lie within the Wilderness area near the
proposed project, this is the only development, past, present, or future with effects on those
resources. With no overlap in space or time of other activities that would add to the impacts
of this project for all resource but wildlife, fisheries, and socioeconomics, no cumulative
effects on those resources would occur under any alternative.
For fisheries, with the analysis area being a Wilderness National Monument LUD, past and
future effects to fisheries will likely be minimal. Given the distance of approximately 6 miles
to the lodge, this project will have no effects on the fishery-related operations of the private
sport-fishing lodge at Thayer Lake. Cumulative effects could include delayed recolonization
of cutthroat trout in the bypass reach of Thayer Creek as a result of lodge-related fishing
pressure, but given the size of Thayer Lake, impacts from this sport-fishing would be
negligible.

An airport facility for Angoon has been proposed and is being analyzed. The proposed
location is approximately three air miles southeast of Angoon on the northeast side of
Favorite Bay. A very small portion of the proposal is in Wilderness area. The proposed
airport would occupy an estimated 270 acres, plus a 3.5 acre “apron” for the terminal and tiedowns,
and an access road from Angoon (alternatives range from 2.0 – 4.4 miles of new
road). Portions of the proposed airport are only a short straight-line distance (approximately
3 air miles) from the Angoon Hydroelectric Project, but a long traverse over land. No
improvements would connect the two projects.

While this project does fall within cumulative effects analysis area for wildlife, the airport
proposal is in a very preliminary stage. All displayed alternatives in ADOT 2007 would
impact low elevation forest, but the effects in terms of location and acreage of habitat are
currently unknown. The airport is intended to provide improved access for Angoon.
Whether this would increase outside hunters’ competition for local subsistence resources is
unknown. The airport road would provide easier access for deer hunting close to Angoon.
Further details on impacts to subsistence resources are unknown at this time. The airport EIS
will further analyze cumulative effects if over-lapping effects are expected.

The development of hydroelectric power in combination with other recent efforts to provide
economic stability to Angoon, such as the Cold Storage Fish Buying Station, tourism-related
businesses, and the proposed construction of an airport, would cumulatively benefit the
economy of Angoon. The airport is intended to provide improved access for Angoon.
Whether this would increase recreational, hunting, or subsistence use of the Angoon
hydroelectric project area is unknown.

USDA Forest Service - Tongass National Forest Accessibility Statement
Last Modified: March 05, 2009