CRATER LAKE

Transcription

CRATER LAKE

..
DOCUMENT
I 29.2/2x:
C 85/7
V
ft
Final
Winter Use Plan and
Environmental Assessment
CRATER LAKE
National Park * Oregon
5
@
Printed on recycled paper
Final
Winter Use Plan and
August 1994
CRATER LAKE
National Park * Oregon
UBRARY
SOUTHERN
ORGN STAT COLLEGE
3 51t3a8n f 4h 3 1 2 6 4
United States Department of the Interior * National Park Service * Denver Service Center
Table of Contents
Page
Executive Summary ........................................ ........
......
vi
1-1
Chapter 1. Introduction .............................................
1-1
BACKGROUND ...............................................
............... 14
CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK VISITATION .....
14
...........................................
.
Visitation
Annual
1-7
........................
Winter and Summer Visitation ..........
............ 1-7
OREGON STATE WINTER RECREATION TRENDS .....
........ 1-7
CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK VISITATION TRENDS ....
1-10
....................
PLAN
USE
WINTER
FOR
NEED
PURPOSE AND
1-10
PLANNING ISSUES ............................................
1-10
........
Winter Activities ....................................
1-11
Areas for Winter Use ........................................
1-11
Levels of Winter Use .........................................
1-11
Environmental Impact/Resource Protection ........................
..................... 1-12
Need for Additional Visitor Services ........
................................
Chapter 2. Park Description ........
WINTER OPERATIONS ........................................
NATURAL RESOURCES .......................................
Topography ................................................
Climate ...................................................
Water Resources ............................................
Air Quality ................................................
Soils .....................................................
Vegetation .................................................
Wildlife ...................................................
Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Animals .....................
Federally Listed Threatened or Endangered Species ..............
.....................
Federal Candidate Species .............
State-listed Species .................. .....................
Cultural Resources
.....................
.....................
Chapter 3. Existing Winter Visitor Use ..............
INTRODUCTION ...........................
Snowmobiles ................
Crater Lake Area Snowmobile Trails .......
JONES/CRATER WITR USE
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....... ....
........
........ 3-1
........
Existing Policy Regarding Snowmobile Use in Crater Lake National
Park .
..............................................
3-4
Cross-Country Skiing ............
.............................
3-5
Crater Lake Area Cross-Country Ski Trails .....................
3-5
Snowshoe Walks ..............
..............................
3-7
Snow Play .
................................................
3-8
Overnight Camping - Frontcountry ...............................
3-8
Overnight Camping - Backcountry ...............................
3-8
Existing Winter Concessioner Facilities ...........................
3-10
Chapter 4. Winter Use Plan ...........
.............................
WINTER USE PLANNING PROCESS ..............................
THE WINTER USE PLAN ..........
.............................
Snowmobiling .
..............................................
Cross-Country Skiing ............
.............................
Snowshoeing .
..............................................
Overnight Camping - Frontcountry ...............................
Overnight Camping - Backcountry ...............................
Year-Round Lodging ............
.............................
WINTER USE ALTERNATIVES ..................................
Alternative 2 - Reduced Winter Use .............................
Snowmobiling .............
..............................
Cross-Country Skiing ......................................
Snowshoeing ..............
..............................
Overnight Camping - Frontcountry ............................
Overnight Camping - Backcountry ............................
Alternative 3 - Expanded Cross-Country Skiing .....................
Snowmobiles ............................................
Snowshoeing ..............
..............................
Alternative 4 - Expanded Cross-Country Skiing and Snowmobiling ....
Snowmobiling .............
..............................
Snowshoeing .
............................................
Chapter 5. Environmental Assessment ................................
PURPOSE AND NEED ............
.............................
DESCRIPTION OF ALTERNATIVES ..............................
Alternative 1 - Winter Use Plan (Preferred Alternative) .....
Snowmobiling .
..........................................
Snowshoeing ...................
..........................
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Alternative 2 - Reduced Winter Use Opportuniti' es
Snowmobiling .................................... ......
Cross-Country Skiing ............................... ......
Snowshoeing ..................................... ......
Overnight Camping - Frontcountry ..................... ......
Overnight Camping - Backcountry ..................... ......
......
Alternative 3 - Expanded Cross-County Skiing ...............
Snowmobiling .................................... .......
Cross-Country Skiing ............................... .......
Snowshoeing ..................................... ......
Overnight Camping - Frontcountry ..................... ......
Overnight Camping - Backcountry ..................... ......
Alternative 4 - Expanded Cross-Country Skiing and Snowmobiling .......
......
Snowmobiling ....................................
Cross-Country Skiing ............................... ......
Snowshoeing ..................................... ......
Overnight Camping - Frontcountry ..................... , .......
Overnight Camping - Backcountry ..................... , ......
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ............................ ........
The Winter Use Plan .................................. ........
Water Resources .................................. ........
Wildlife ......................................... ........
Air Quality ...................................... ........
Soils and Vegetation ............................... ........
Threatened and Endangered Species ................... ........
Cultural Resources ................................ ........
Noise .......................................... ........
Recreation ...................................... ........
Alternative 2 - Reduced Winter Use ...................... ........
Water Resources .................................. ........
........
Wildlife .........................................
Air Quality ...................................... ........
Soils and Vegetation ............................... ........
........
Threatened and Endangered Species ...................
........
Cultural Resources ................................
........
Noise ..........................................
........
Recreation ......................................
........
Alternative 3 - Expanded Cross-Country Skiing ..............
........
Water Resources ..................................
........
Wildlife ......................................... ........
Air Quality ...................................... ........
Soils and Vegetation ...............................
Threatened and Endangered Species ................... ........
Cultural Resources ................................ ........
Overnight Camping - Frontcountry .......
Overnight Camping - Backcountry .......
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Noise ...............................................
Recreation .............................................
Alternative 4 - Expanded Snowmobiling and Cross-Country Skiing .......
Water Resources ...............
..........................
Wildlife ........................................
........
Air Quality .....................................
........
Soils and Vegetation .............................. ........
Threatened and Endangered Species ..................
........
Cultural Resources ...............................
........
Noise ......................................... ........
Recreation .....................................
........
Cumulative Impacts .................................. ........
LIST OF PERSONS AND AGENCIES CONSULTED ..........
........
Chapter 6. Citations ..............................
PRINTED REFERENCES ......................
PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS ................
................
.................
.................
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Appendix A. Comments and Responses
Appendix B. Crater Lake National Park Winter Recreation Use Tables
Appendix C. NPS Position Statement on Proposed Change in Snowmobile Use in
Crater Lake National Park
Appendix D. Crater Lake National Park Winter Use Plan Public Meeting Workbook
Appendix E. Economic Setting and Visitor Trends
Appendix F. FONSI: Finding of No Significant Impact
08/22/94c
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List of Tables and Figures
Page
Table
1-1
Recreation Visitors to Crater Lake National Park ................
1-6
2-1
Crater Lake National Park Weather Statistics ...................
2-2
3-1
Guided Snowshoe Walks in Crater Lake National Park, 1993-94
Winter Season ...........................................
3-9
3-2
Winter and Summer Overnight Backcountry Use in Crater Lake
National Park ...........................................
3-9
1-1
Crater Lake National Park Regional Map ......................
1-2
1-2
Crater Lake National Park Vicinity Map .......................
1-3
1-3
Crater Lake National Park Annual Visits, 1983-1993 ..............
1-5
1-4
Crater Lake National Park Winter Recreation Visits, 1983-1993 ......
1-8
1-5
Crater Lake National Park Projected Winter Visits, 1983-2005 .......
1-9
3-1
Crater Lake National Park Snowmobile Trails ...................
3-2
3-2
Crater Lake National Park Cross-Country Ski Trails ...............
3-6
Figure
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Executive Summary
INTRODUCTION
The winter use plan supports the purpose for which Congress established the
National Park Service (NPS) in 1916:
to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and wild life therein and
to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner as will leave them
unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.
The plan will preserve the quiet and solitude of the park's backcountry areas while
allowing all user groups access to Crater Lake during the winter season.
This plan is the result of a thorough evaluation of park resources and past, existing,
and anticipated winter use at Crater Lake National Park and in the surrounding region, and
it reflects public comment received during the planning process. While diverse views were
expected and presented, the preferred winter use plan alternative is consistent with the
majority of comments received. All public comments and responses regarding the draft
winter use plan and environmental assessment are included in Appendix A of this document.
ALTERNATIVES
Four alternative winter use plan scenarios were evaluated during the planning
process. With the exception of a change in frontcountry camping policy, the winter use plan
is based on Alternative 1, which supports maintaining existing winter use in the park.
Under Alternative 1, snow machine access to Crater Lake National Park would
continue along the north entrance road. The existing ungroomed cross-country ski trail
network would be retained. Guided interpretive snowshoe walks would continue from the
Rim Village activity center. Overnight frontcountry camping would continue at Rim Village.
Backcountry camping would continue under the existing permit system.
Under Alternative 2, the use of mechanized snow machines within the park would
be prohibited. The existing ungroomed cross-country ski network would continue to be
maintained. Snowshoe walks would continue to be offered from Rim Village. Frontcountry
camping would continue in a designated area at Rim Village. Backcountry use would be
restricted to day use. No overnight backcountry use would be permitted.
JONES/CRATM
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Under Alternative 3, the use of snow machines within the park would be limited to
the north entrance road. The existing ungroomed ski trail network would continue to be
maintained. However, this alternative includes an option to develop a groomed trail
network in Mazama Village. Snowshoe walks would continue to be offered at Rim Village;
however, if year-round facilities were to be developed in Mazama Village, the NPS would
likely provide guided interpretive snowshoe walks in this area as well. Frontcountry camping
would be prohibited in Rim Village; however, facilities would be provided in Mazama
Village if year-round facilities were developed. Backcountry camping would continue under
the existing permit system.
Under Alternative 4, the use of snow machines would continue along the north
entrance road; however, snowmobile access would also be permitted along the Pinnacles
road from the former east entrance to the Phantom Ship overlook at Kerr Notch. The
cross-country ski network would continue to be maintained; however, the NPS would explore
development of groomed trails along portions of Rim Drive. Snowshoe walks and
frontcountry camping would be the same as in Alternative 3. Backcountry camping would
continue under the existing permit system; however, the NPS would explore development
of a hut-to-hut system within the park.
WINTER USE PLAN
Based on park staff and consultant analysis and public comment regarding the
alternative winter use scenarios, the winter use plan is based on Alternative 1. Park staff
and the public seem most satisfied with maintaining existing types and levels of winter use
within Crater Lake National Park. Snow machine access will continue along the north
entrance road from Highway 138 to North Junction (see Figure 3-1 in Chapter 3). The
existing ungroomed cross-country ski network (see Figure 3-2 in Chapter 3) will be
maintained. Guided interpretive snowshoe walks will continue to be offered from the Rim
Village activity center. Backcountry camping will continue based on the existing permit
system. No groomed trail or hut-to-hut system will be developed. Safety and regulatory
concerns have prompted park staff to prohibit overnight frontcountry camping in the Rim
Village area. All overnight frontcountry campers will be referred to year-round overnight
facilities outside the park.
Prior to the year 2000, the NPS will reevaluate the appropriateness and need for
year-round lodging facilities at Mazama Village. The decision will be based on existing and
predicted patters of winter use in and around the park, potential environmental impacts, the
availability of winter lodging outside the park, and the economic viability of winter lodging
in the park. If a decision is made to construct year-round lodging, such lodging would be
located north of the existing lodging units adjacent to the Mazama Village store.
JONES/CRATR WITDR
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USE
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ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
At the present time, there is no evidence indicating that existing winter use activities
adversely affect the environment; however, additional studies and monitoring are needed.
Because the winter use plan will not substantially change the types of activities permitted
in the park or the location of existing activities, no significant adverse environmental impacts
resulting from plan implementation can be identified.
The least potential for environmental impact would occur under Alternative 2.
Reduced winter use would eliminate the potential for petroleum products to enter surface
water resources. Noise impacts on wildlife caused by snowmobiles and overnight
backcountry use would be eliminated. However, reduced winter use would adversely affect
recreation opportunities within the park.
Under Alternative 3, noise levels from the use of mechanized trail grooming
equipment in Mazama Village would increase, possibly affecting wildlife. Increased noise
levels would affect the backcountry wilderness experience in this area. Recreational
opportunities would increase with greater winter use in the Mazama Village area. Other
environmental impacts would likely be as described for the winter use plan.
Under Alternative 4, increased snowmobile access along the Pinnacles road would
increase noise levels in this area, affecting the quiet and solitude of the backcountry
experience. In addition, snowmobile exhaust could affect cross-country skiers traveling in
the area. Recreation opportunities for snowmobilers would increase.
No significant cumulative impacts associated with implementation of this plan are
anticipated. Impacts associated with development in the Mazama Village area will be
addressed in the environmental impact statement being prepared for the Development
Concept Plan.
08/22/94,
viii
Chapter 1
Introduction
I
Chapter 1.
Introduction
Crater Lake National Park is located approximately 70 miles northeast of Medford,
Oregon, along the crest of the Cascade mountain range (see Figure 1-1). Formed after the
volcanic eruption of Mount Mazama approximately 7,700 years ago, Crater Lake, with a
depth of 1,932 feet, is the deepest lake in the United States and the seventh deepest lake
in the world. Crater Lake National Park encompasses approximately 183,000 acres and was
established in 1902 as the United States' sixth national park. Figure 1-2 provides a detailed
park map.
Historically, winter activities have been managed through approved planning
documents and established National Park Service (NPS) policy and guidelines rather than
long-term recreational management specific to Crater Lake National Park. It has become
apparent that winter activities are an integral part of the visitor experience in Crater Lake
National Park and that more specific management and policy direction is needed to guide
the growth of active winter recreation within the park.
The number of winter visits to Crater Lake National Park has increased over the past
5 years by an annual average of 3.5%. People visiting Crater Lake during the winter do so
for various reasons. Foremost among winter visitor activities is passive viewing of the lake.
This includes photography, relaxation, and contemplation of the winter scenery. This will
likely remain the primary winter recreation activity in the park. However, for a growing
number of visitors, Crater Lake National Park provides a unique and pristine location to
enjoy a variety of active winter recreation pursuits. Typically, whether on cross-country skis,
snowshoes, or a snowmobile, the winter visitor participating in active recreation is using a
means of travel other than the automobile to enjoy Crater Lake National Park.
BACKGROUND
Stimulated by the need to determine the future of the historic Crater Lake Lodge
and Rim Village, the NPS underwent an intense planning effort during the late 1980s. The
1988 Development Concept Plan (DCP) (U.S. Department of the Interior 1988), resulted
from a series of public planning efforts which addressed future development in the park.
Public comments were solicited at three separate points in the planning process. The DCP
recommended rehabilitation of the lodge and replacement of the existing gift store and
cafeteria with a new year-round activity center/hotel in Rim Village. Subsequent to 1988,
a decision was made to develop an off-rim parking facility and remove all parking in Rim
Village.
JONES/CRATR WINIER USE
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PORTLAND
*SALEM
oEUGENE
OREGON
* Crater Lake
. MEDFORD
National Park
to Chemult (25 mffes)
CRATER LAKE
NATIONAL
PARK
orliv
N
~~Park Boundary
to Klamath, Falls (60 miles)
Figure 1-1. Crater Lake National Park Regional Map
08/22/94e
1-2
.-- *
North Entrance Station
Boundary Springs
AL
CRATER
Bald #
Crater
PARK
Tlimber *
Crater
PUMICE
DESERT
XBo
CLEEMOW
COVE
North Junction
The
kC
Mount
* Scott
Castle Point
Annie
Union Peak
WINEMA
NATIONAL
FOREST
--
Pacfic Crest Trail
Streams
Highways
Figure 1-2. Crater Lake National Park Vicinity Map
JONES/CRATER WVINTER USE
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1-3
In September 1992, the House-Senate Appropriations Committee expressed concern
over the rising cost and scope of development for the prospective new activity center and
hotel in Rim Village. Subsequently, year-round lodging in Rim Village was removed from
the DCP by the NPS due primarily to concerns about the appropriateness of year-round
lodging on the rim. Additionally, the need to formulate a long-term strategy to address
winter use became evident. This need was formalized in a request to prepare a winter use
plan for the park. The NPS issued a March 1993 briefing report that addressed numerous
development issues and committed the NPS to preparing a winter use plan (U.S.
Department of the Interior 1993).
This winter use plan will serve as a tool to guide existing and future winter use within
the park by defining the types and levels of winter recreation activities appropriate for
Crater Lake National Park and the locations where these activities should occur. The types
and locations of winter activities will determine whether development of concessioner
support services, such as year-round lodging, should be considered. The winter use plan will
cover elements of the DCP now being prepared for Munson Valley, Mazama Village, and
the south entrance area of the park.
CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK VISITATION
The data in this analysis provide a general overview of past park visitation and are
used to generate conservative visitation estimates. Because data collection is sometimes
affected by weather and snow conditions on park roads, the data should be considered as
one indicator of potential year-round and winter visitation and must be viewed in context
with statewide and regional winter recreation projections.
Annual Visitation
The number of annual recreation visits to Crater Lake National Park fluctuated
during the period from 1983 through 1993 (see Figure 1-3). Figure 1-3 indicates that
visitation has fluctuated annually between a high of 525,441 in 1991 to a low of 419,914 in
1993. Table 1-1 shows that the total number of annual visitors to Crater Lake National
Park remained relatively stable during the 11-year period from 1983 through 1993,
decreasing by an average of .2% annually. Visitation declined by an average of 1.6%
annually during the 5-year period between 1989 and 1993.
JONES/CRATER We USE
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525 - 500 - _
400
-
-__
WI
2
0
.c
*A
300 -_
200-
4-
100
-
01983
1984
1985
1986
1988
1987
1989
1990
1991
Year
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior 1994a.
Figure 1-3. Crater Lake National Park Annual Visits, 1983-1993
-
JONES/CRATER VINTER USE
08/22/C
1-5
1992
1993
Table 1-1. Recreation Visitors to Crater Lake National Park
Year
Annual Visits
Winter Visitsa
Summer Visitsb
1983
429,586
92,279
337,307
1984
499,945
160,375
339,570
1985
427,927
91,272
336,655
1986
427,716
98,233
329,483
1987
492,581
129,888
362,693
1988
468,994
121,264
347,730
1989
454,737
107,353
347,384
1990
454,253
109,156
345,097
1991
525,441
136,058
389,383
1992
511,500
176,288
335,212
1993
419,914
127,286
292,628
5-year AAGRC
-1.6%
3.5%
-3.4%
(1989-1993)
11-year AAGRC
(1983-1993)
-0.2%
3.0%
-1.3%
a
Winter recreation visits are defined as those occuring from January through May
and from October through December.
b
Summer visits are defined as those occuring from June through September.
c AAGR = Average annual growth rate.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior 1994a.
08/22/%e
1-6
Winter and Summer Visitation
Figure 14 shows the number of winter recreation visits from 1983 through the 1993
winter seasons. As shown, winter visitation has ranged from a low of 91,272 during 1985 to
a high of 176,288 during 1992. Park staff attribute the 1992 figure to low snow levels which
allowed summer visitors to access the park earlier in the season. Table 1-1 shows that the
number of winter recreation visits increased by an annual average of 3.5% between 1989
and 1993 and by 3.0% between 1983 and 1993.
The number of summer recreation visitors declined by an annual average of 3.4%
from 1989 to 1993 and by 1.3% between 1983 and 1993.
OREGON STATE WINTER RECREATION TRENDS
The primary statewide recreation planning document is the 1988-1993 Oregon State
Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP). Winter activities addressed in the
SCORP include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snow play. The most recent version
of the SCORP shows that in 1987 approximately 20% of all Oregon households participated
in some form of winter recreation. The plan estimates that demand for winter recreation
will increase at approximately 2.4% annually, double the rate of Oregon's annual population
growth (Oregon State Parks and Recreation Division 1988).
Approximately 9% of all winter recreation in Oregon takes place in the southwest
region, which includes Jackson, Josephine, Klamath, and most of Douglas County (Oregon
State Parks and Recreation Division 1988). The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Division
projected increases in recreation participation throughout the state from 1988 through the
year 2000. In the southwest region, it is projected that snowmobile use will increase by
approximately 2%, cross-country skiing by 41%, and snow play by 38% (Eixenberger pers.
comm.).
CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK VISITATION TRENDS
It is reasonable to assume that winter visitation in Crater Lake National Park will
increase as regional and statewide participation in winter recreation increases. Figure 1-5
shows winter recreation visits projected to the year 2005. Assuming that park visitation and
regional participation trends remain constant, winter visitation could increase by 1 to 3%
each season.
JoNES/CRATER WINTMEUSE
O/22/94e
1-7
200
150 -
/\
tI
WI1
0
-e
100-
'.,a-50
0
0 -
1983
.
,
,
,
1984
1985
1986
1987
1988
I
I
I
1
1989
1990
1991
1992
1993
Year
Source: US. Deparftent of the Interior 1994a
Figure 1-4. Crater Lake National Park Winter Recreation Visits, 1983-1993
JOMES/CRATER WINTER USE
08/22/94e
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200
*~~~~~~~~~~
:*
150
M
la
0
-U 100
0
*
0
I-
SO
i
0
83
84
85
86
87
88
89
90
91
92
93
95
97
2000
2005
Year
Figure 1-5. Crater Lake National Park Projected Winter Visits, 1983 - 2005
08/22/94e
1-9
PURPOSE AND NEED FOR WINTER USE PLAN
As mentioned earlier, winter use in Crater Lake National Park has in the past been
managed in accordance with existing plans and NPS policy. However, the growth in winter
use in Crater Lake National Park has raised concerns regarding potential impacts on park
resources, the need for additional visitor services, and the direction the NPS should take
regarding overall winter recreation management. As growth in winter visitation continues,
the need for a long-range planning strategy is becoming more evident.
While the NPS has a diverse range of responsibilities, the focus of the winter use
planning process has been on defining a balance between resource protection and visitor
use. The primary purpose of the winter use plan is to identify the types of winter activities
appropriate for Crater Lake National Park and where these activities should occur so that
all users are given access and impacts to park resources are minimized. The challenge is
to emphasize the park's uniqueness; the guiding principle is to do nothing that will threaten
the quality of park resources.
PLANNING ISSUES
This section identifies winter recreation planning issues. Issues addressed in the
winter use plan include winter activities appropriate for the park, areas where activities
should take place and the interaction between conflicting uses, appropriate levels of use,
environmental impacts, and the need for additional visitor services.
Winter Activities
Visitors currently participate in a variety of activities within Crater Lake National
Park during the winter season. The activities addressed in this plan are snowmobiling, crosscountry skiing, snowshoeing, and winter camping. Winter recreation in Crater Lake
National Park has evolved over time with direction from the NPS; however, a long-term
strategy and guidelines regarding the types of activities that are appropriate for the park,
and locations at which these activities should occur, have never been formally developed.
The plan will be used as a tool to manage existing and future recreation activities within the
park.
JONES/CRATER WINER USE
08122/94c
1-10
Areas for Winter Use
Winter visitors currently using Crater Lake National Park for recreation do so with
some direction from the NPS regarding where activities should take place; however, some
activities can and do occur unrestricted. An issue that was identified during the planning
process is the need to formally identify areas suited to various recreation activities. This
winter use plan addresses resource protection, visitor enjoyment, visitor safety, and
conflicting uses. Conflicting uses are defined as those activities that impair or intrude on
the recreational experience of others. The winter use plan formally designates areas most
suited to accommodate the various winter activities appropriate for the park.
Levels of Winter Use
People participate in winter recreation activities for various reasons. An important
part of the winter experience for many visitors to Crater Lake National Park is the quiet and
solitude. Others enjoy participating in snow play activities or experiencing the park while
riding a snowmobile. The discussion of appropriate levels of use seeks to identify a balance
between the number of recreation visitors using a given area within the park, the protection
of the winter ecosystem, and maintenance of a quality visitor experience. This balance can
be achieved by managing the types of winter use activities that occur within the park in such
a way that discourages visitors from congregating in any one area. There are currently
regulations and restrictions regarding the use of backcountry areas that address this issue.
This issue is further addressed in the winter use plan (see Chapter 4, "Winter Use Plan").
Environmental Impact/Resource Protection
The primary mission of the NPS is the protection and conservation of natural,
cultural, and historic resources within park unit boundaries. Parks should be managed so
that public access to recreational and educational opportunities is provided while ensuring
that the unique resources that contribute to the national park system remain unimpaired.
While Crater Lake is the park's prime resource and the principal reason most people
visit the park, other resources unique to the park and important to winter visitors (wildlife,
views, air quality, etc.) were identified during the public involvement process. A resource
of particular importance to many winter visitors is the quiet and solitude found in
backcountry areas.
The goal of the NPS is to accommodate winter recreation within the park; however,
the guiding principle is to ensure that recreational activities do not adversely impact park
resources. The common theme underlying the winter use plan is resource protection
through defining a balance between the types of activities appropriate for the park and
JONES/CRATER WDNTER USE
08/22/94e
1-11
where activities should occur. Impacts on park resources associated with implementation
of the winter use plan and alternatives are evaluated in Chapter 5, "Environmental
Assessment".
Need for Additional Visitor Services
One objective of the winter use planning process is to determine whether additional
facilities are needed and appropriate to support existing and projected winter use in the
park.
The approved General Management Plan for the park allows for the development
of an additional 40 rooms in Mazama Village. This would bring the total to 80 rooms. The
approved 1988 DCP supports this concept, additionally suggesting that some units be two
stories so they can be used in the winter. This DCP also approved the construction of a
60-room, year-round hotel as part of a new Activity Center. It was to be constructed in Rim
Village, replacing the existing gift store/cafeteria. Since these documents were approved,
several events have occurred which influence these proposals. In 1991, the NPS reaffirmed
its policy of encouraging the development of privately owned visitor service facilities outside
park boundaries. In 1993, the NPS recommended the hotel component of the Activity
Center be removed and that future year-round lodging, if appropriate, be developed in
Mazama Village.
The proposed winter use plan defines areas where winter use activities will continue
or increase, thereby identifying areas that may be appropriate for expanded visitor services
in the future. The issue of additional visitor services, including year-round lodging in
Mazama Village, is considered in the context of approved planning documents, subsequent
recommendations, environmental analysis, public comment, and the strategy outlined in the
preferred winter use alternative.
In preparing this plan, the NPS developed a preliminary analysis of the economic
feasibility for winter lodging in Mazama Village. The results of this analysis are found in
Appendix E of this document.
JONES/CRATM WINNR USE
08/22/94c
1-12
Chapter 2
Park Description
Chapter 2.
Park Description
WINTER OPERATIONS
The winter season in Crater Lake National Park lasts from October to May. The
abundant snowfall attracts many winter recreation enthusiasts. The NPS maintains yearround access to Munson Valley and Rim Village via Highway 62 and the Annie Springs
entrance. All other roads, including all but 3 miles of the 33-mile Rim Drive and the north
entrance, are closed throughout the winter season.
Visitor facilities are limited during the winter season. Year-round information and
limited interpretive services are provided at the William G. Steel Information Center,
located in Munson Valley approximately 3 miles south of Rim Village. Interpretive rangers
also staff a visitor information desk and small exhibit area in the Rim Village cafeteria
during the winter season. The cafeteria/gift shop, which includes a cross-country ski and
snowshoe rental operation, is operated by the park concessioner and is open from 9:30 a.m.
to sunset every day except Christmas Day.
NATURAL RESOURCES
Topography
The park topography is defined by Crater Lake, which covers 21 square miles and
is located roughly in the center of the park. The lake's surface elevation is 6,176 feet, and
it has a maximum depth of 1,932 feet. The lake is surrounded by a rim of steep-walled cliffs
that range from 500 to 2,000 feet in height above the lake surface. Steep to gradual
mountain slopes extend downward from the lake rim on all sides. The park's south entrance
elevation is 4,400 feet; the elevation at Rim Village is 7,076 feet. The elevation of the park
headquarters at Munson Valley is 6,480 feet.
Climate
The Crater Lake area experiences two major visitor seasons: the summer season,
which extends from June through September; and the winter season, which extends from
October through May. Table 2-1 shows average temperature and precipitation data for 1989
through 1993. As shown, the winter season is typically long with abundant snowfall.
JOES/CRATER WINTER USE
08122/94c
2-1
Table 2-1. Crater Lake National Park Weather Statistics
5-Year Averages, 1989 through 1993
Max Temp.
(OF)
Min. Temp.
(OF)
Rainfall
(inches)
Snowfall
(inches)
January
35
18
8.7
83
February
35
18
6.2
70
March
38
22
8.06
61
April
43
25
7.2
46
May
50
29
4.7
18
June
57
34
2.2
3
July
66
40
1.2
0
August
68
41
1.2
0
September
66
38
1
0
October
54
31
3.9
18
November
41
23
7.8
67
December
35
19
8.8
65
Month
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior 1994b.
JONES/CRATE
08/2294c
WanMr USE
2-2
Maximum temperatures generally range from the mid 30s to the low 50s. Minimum
temperatures range from the high teens to the high 20s. Winter snowfalls are heaviest from
November through March; however, snow has been known to fall within the park yearround. Summer maximum temperatures range from the high 50s to the high 60s; minimum
temperatures range from the high 20s to the low 40s.
Water Resources
Crater Lake is the dominant water feature and is the park's primary water resource.
Crater Lake is known for its deep blue color which results from the lake's depth and purity.
For its size, the lake contains relatively small amounts of organic matter and other dissolved
materials. The sun's wavelengths of red, yellow, and green are absorbed at a certain depth,
but wavelengths at the blue end of the visible light spectrum are reflected and scattered by
water molecules, producing the deep blue color. No streams flow into or out of Crater
Lake. The lake's water comes only from snow, rain, and a few springs. Water is lost only
through evaporation and seepage. The lake level seldom varies more than 3 feet even in
the wettest or driest years.
There are several creeks located in the western and southern part of Crater Lake
National Park. These include Castle, Annie, Sun, Wheeler, and Sand Creeks (see
Figure 1-2). Creeks within the park are known for their pristine quality and provide
important wildlife habitat.
Air Quality
Crater Lake National Park has near pristine air quality and is classified as a Class I
area as defined in the Federal Clean Air Act. Class I areas are those for which
maintenance of air quality is critical for protection of the resource. All national parks and
national wilderness and recreation areas are Class I areas. One factor that contributes to
the clean air in Crater Lake National Park is that there are no significant upwind stationary
emission sources. Industrial emissions from the Medford and Klamath Falls areas are
carried south/southwest by the prevailing winds. (Lynn pers. comm.)
Soils
The soils of Crater Lake National Park are generally very young, only as old as the
eruption of Mount Mazama that either deposited new soil material or rearranged the old.
The soil parent material is correlated with the eruption of Mount Mazama and its glaciercarved slopes that were formed during the ice ages. Ash flows associated with the eruption
of Mount Mazama filled Munson and Annie Creek Valleys and continued into the Wood
O8/22/94e
2-3
River Valley, the former bed of Upper Klamath Lake. The Munson Valley, Mazama
Village, and Panhandle areas are located on this ash flow. A few areas in Munson Valley
are composed of remnant glacial moraines and colluvial volcanic rocks and ash. The rim
area is composed of andesitic bedrock and glacial and volcanic debris. (Jones & Stokes
Associates 1993b.)
Vegetation
Except for the pumice desert in the northern part of the park, Crater Lake National
Park is almost entirely forested and contains approximately 600 plant species. All plants
have recolonized since the eruption of Mount Mazama. The lower elevations are dominated
by ponderosa and sugar pine, white fir, and some Douglas-fir. Higher elevations are
dominated by Shasta red fir and mountain hemlock. Lodgepole pines are found throughout
the park. The rim area supports stands of mountain hemlock and Shasta red fir. Whitebark
pines are located at higher elevations on the northern rim and on Mount Scott. Most of the
trees are evergreens; however, there are some deciduous trees such as bigleaf maple and
quaking aspen. Numerous species of wildflowers also inhabit the forest floor and open
meadows.
Wildlife
About 60 species of mammals inhabit Crater Lake National Park. The park's largest
animals are black bear and elk. Black-tailed and mule deer, marmots, pikas, goldenmantled ground squirrels, and Townsend's chipmunk can frequently be seen within the park.
During the winter season, deer and elk migrate to lower elevations to escape the deep
snows, while other mammals hibernate. Animals such as the pine marten and snowshoe
hare live above the snow, and voles and shrews live and travel in tunnels under the snow.
Birds such as Clark's nutcracker, Stellar's and gray jays, blue and ruffled grouse, and
mountain chickadee inhabit the park year-round. The summer season brings numerous bird
species, including ravens, hawks, golden eagles, and bald eagles. (Sierra Club 1985.)
Bull trout, which inhabit Sun Creek south of the lake, are the only fish that occur
naturally in the park. Crater Lake was stocked with fish from 1888 to 1941. A selfperpetuating population of rainbow trout and kokanee salmon, which feed on insects and
plankton, currently inhabit the lake. (Sierra Club 1985.)
O8/22/94e
2-4
Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Animals
The following list of federally listed threatened or endangered species, federal
candidate species, and state-listed species was obtained from field investigations performed
as part of the DCP planning process. Field investigations were performed for the Rim
Village, Munson Valley, Mazama Village, and Panhandle study areas. Information in this
section was taken from the Threatened, Endangered, and Sensitive Animals Report, Rim
Village, Munson Valley, Mazama Village, and Panhandle Study Areas at Crater Lake
National Park, prepared by Jones & Stokes Associates (1993a).
Federally Listed Threatened or Endangered Species
*
A pair of peregrine falcons nests within the Rim, but the Rim Village area is
6 miles from the nest site and is not a key foraging area.
*
Based on NPS surveys and habitat conditions, northern spotted owls do not
occur near any of the study areas but do occur within the park. The Panhandle
site is within 2 miles of a reported nest site; however, no spotted owls were
found during field surveys.
*
Bald eagles occasionally use aquatic habitats at the lake but probably do not use
the study areas.
Federal Candidate Species
Of the federal candidate species potentially present within or surrounding the park,
five are likely or known to be present within or near the study areas:
*
Northern goshawks are present at Munson Valley, Mazama Village, and the
Panhandle; mountain hemlock trees at Mazama Village and large snags at the
Panhandle contain typical northern goshawk nesting habitat.
*
Cascade frogs are present within wetlands, streams, and seeps at Munson Valley.
*
Cascades apatanian caddisfly, bull trout, and tailed frog occur in Annie Creek,
which flows east of the Mazama Village and Panhandle study areas (bull trout
and tailed frogs are assumed present based on habitat conditions).
Other federal candidate species which may occur at low densities at all study areas
include:
*
*
mountain quail,
California wolverine,
08/22/94c
2-5
*
*
Pacific fisher, and
Pacific western big-eared bat.
In addition, spotted frogs may be present at Munson Valley.
State-Listed Species
*
Clouded salamanders may be present at low densities at any of the study areas,
but only the Panhandle area contains primary habitat.
*
Western toads may forage at any of the study areas; sewage lagoons at the
Munson Valley and Mazama Village study areas are confirmed breeding
locations, and wet meadows at Munson Valley contain potential breeding habitat.
*
Martens are present at the Rim, Munson Valley, Mazama Village, and the
Panhandle. Because of its meadows, Munson Valley may provide more suitable
marten habitat than the other study areas.
*
Northern pygmy-owls have been documented in the Panhandle area. They are
less likely to inhabit higher elevation study areas because of the lack of snags
and the duration of snow cover.
*
Great gray owls are known to inhabit Munson Valley and the Fort Klamath
Valley south of the Panhandle area.
*
Flammulated owls may inhabit the Panhandle area.
*
The Panhandle area contains snags and ponderosa pine forest that are ideal or
potentially suitable for a number of state-listed bird species:
-
pileated woodpecker,
-
Lewis' woodpecker (migration habitat only),
-
three-toed woodpecker,
white-headed woodpecker,
black-backed woodpecker,
Williamson's sapsucker,
pygmy nuthatch, and
western bluebird.
-
*
Elk use the Panhandle area as part of a major migration route. Some elk likely
calve in the area.
08/22/9c
2-6
Cultural Resources
There are currently 23 properties in Crater Lake National Park listed on the National
Register of Historic Places. Crater Lake Lodge was the first property placed on the register,
in 1981. Seven years later, in 1988, 22 other Crater Lake National Park structures were
added. Three of the structures, the Sinnott Memorial and two stone comfort stations, are
located in Rim Village. One structure, the Watchman lookout and museum, is located west
of Rim Village. The remaining 18 constitute a district located at the park headquarters.
The old superintendent's residence, located in the park headquarters district, is a National
Historic Landmark.
Three cultural landscapes, Rim Village, the park headquarters, and parts of Rim
Drive, may be eligible for the National Register. Like the historic structures, these
landscapes were designed to fit with the park setting. Components of these landscapes
include circulation devices (roads, parking areas, walkways, and trails), planting concepts and
materials, structures, small-scale features, and construction technologies such as stonework,
planting, and paving.
Crater Lake National Park also has several historic road and trail segments that may
be eligible for the National Register. These include a military wagon road (1865-1904), the
old Crater Lake Highway (1909-1931), and the first Rim Drive (1913-1931). Trails to
destinations such as the Watchman, Garfield Peak, and Discovery Point have historic design
features such as rock benches and masonry walls.
A number of archeological sites in the park may also be eligible for listing on the
National Register. Although several sites have been recorded, the full extent of these
resources is unknown.
08/22/94e
2-7
Chapter 3
Existing Winter Visitor Use
Chapter 3. Existing Winter Visitor Use
INTRODUCTION
This section describes existing active winter uses within the park and on U.S. Forest
Service land surrounding the park. Existing active winter uses in Crater Lake National Park
include:
*
*
*
*
limited snowmobiling,
cross-country skiing,
guided and individual snowshoe walks, and
winter camping (frontcountry and backcountry).
Most winter visitors drive to the rim to view the lake. However, for a growing
number of visitors, overnight stays and the use of other forms of transportation have become
part of the experience. The winter use plan specifically addresses snowmobiling, crosscountry skiing, snowshoeing, and overnight camping. Winter snow play activities such as
sledding and innertubing currently occur within the park but are not organized or monitored
uses. Winter snow play is described briefly in this section but is not addressed as a
component of the winter use plan.
The following discussion identifies winter recreation areas both within Crater Lake
National Park and on U.S. Forest Service land surrounding the park. The purpose of the
discussion is to document the types of winter recreation facilities in the Crater Lake area.
The availability of winter recreation and support facilities (e.g., lodging, food service, etc.)
outside the park will be considered as one factor in determining the types of winter use
activities appropriate for the park and where these activities should occur.
Snowmobiles
Under existing NPS policy, the use of mechanized snow machines (snowmobiles and
snowcoaches) is allowed only on roads open to traffic during the summer season and closed
to traffic during the winter. Currently, snowmobiling is allowed within Crater Lake National
Park from the north park entrance to North Junction. This 9-mile route (Route Si), which
is closed to vehicle traffic during the winter, leads from Oregon 138 to the northwest rim
of Crater Lake (see Figure 3-1). Snowmobiles using this route typically originate at
Diamond Lake, approximately 6 miles north of the park boundary. The total number of
people using this route each season is unknown; however, over the 1992-93 winter season,
JONES/CRATER W
08/22/94c
USE
eTR
3-1
Boundary Sprigs
CRATER
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Legend:
Pacific Crest Trail
Streams .S
Highways
Minor Roads
wwwomm Park Boundary
Snowmobile Trail
Si - North Entrance to North Junction
\\
South
Entrance
Figure 3-1. Crater Lake National Park Snowmobile Trails
08/22/94e
3-2
WINEEMA
N AT IO0NA L
FOREST
Mount
4 Scott
the Diamond Lake Resort staff guided 30 tours, each with approximately 17 snowmobiles,
to Crater Lake National Park. Approximately 660 people participated in these tours.
(Benson pers. comm.)
Snowcoach tours originating in the Diamond Lake area also use the north entrance
route. During the 1992-93 winter season, there were three snowcoach tours, which brought
a total of 60 people from Diamond Lake to Crater Lake. Three tours were also scheduled
for the 1993-94 winter season. (Wojahn pers. comm.)
All of Crater Lake National Park with the exception of existing roads and developed
areas has been proposed as wilderness and is being managed under wilderness guidelines.
Recreational snowmobile use is prohibited in wilderness areas. A summary of NPS policy
regarding snowmobile use in Crater Lake National Park is provided later in this section.
Crater Lake Area Snowmobile Trails
According to the U.S. Forest Service, there are approximately 960 miles of
snowmobile trails within the adjoining Umpqua, Rogue River, and Winema National
Forests. This is a conservative estimate, because the total considers only documented oneway miles and loop trails, not round-trip mileage on all trails. The total also includes the
20-mile one-way trail from Diamond Lake Resort to North Junction in Crater Lake National
Park. The following discussion addresses snowmobile trails in the three national forests
surrounding the park. Tables detailing the length of each trail are provided in Appendix B
of this document.
Umpqua National Forest
Diamond Lake Ranger District. There are approximately 362 one-way miles
of trail originating from the Diamond Lake area. In addition, there are approximately
291 miles of loop trails, some of which contain portions of one-way trails. Diamond Lake
area snowmobile trails are listed in Table B-1 of Appendix B. The longest loop trail is the
99-mile Crescent Lake Loop. Most trails in this area are located within the Umpqua
National Forest Diamond Lake Ranger District. There are currently no recreation use data
available from the U.S. Forest Service for snowmobile facilities within the Diamond Lake
Ranger District; however, the four snow parks in the area operate at capacity every weekend
during winter season. (Graves pers. comm.)
Rogue River National Forest. The Rogue River National Forest is located south and
west of Crater Lake National Park. There are approximately 102 miles of snowmobile trails
within the Rogue River National Forest. Rogue River area snowmobile trails are listed in
Table B-2 of Appendix B. Portions of some trails are listed in Table B-1 of Appendix B.
Two snow parks are located within the Rogue River National Forest near the west
boundary of Crater Lake National Park. The Thousand Springs Snow Park is located along
Highway 62 approximately 6 miles east of the intersection of Highways 62 and 230. The
O8/22/94L3
3-3
Farwell Bend Snow Park is located on Highway 62 just south of the intersection. Visitor
counts show that during the 1991-92 season approximately 95% (2,187) of all Thousand
Springs Snow Park users were snowmobile recreation users. During the 1992-93 season,
approximately 92% (2,935) of all users were snowmobiles recreation users.
Snowmobile use is not allowed at the Farwell Bend Snow Park. The majority of
visitors to the Farwell Bend Snow Park participate in snow play activities as the primary
form of recreation. The snow park's use data is shown in Table B-3 of Appendix B.
Winema National Forest
Klamath Ranger District. The Winema National Forest borders Crater Lake
National Park to the south and west. The Klamath Ranger District borders the park to the
south. There are approximately 164 miles of snowmobile trails within the Klamath Ranger
District. Table B-4 in Appendix B lists all snowmobile trails in the Klamath Ranger District.
During an average winter season, there are approximately 11,000 snowmobile recreation
visits; however, 1993-94 seasonal data indicate above-average recreational use (U.S. Forest
Service 1994). Table B-5 in Appendix B shows average seasonal visits for snow parks within
the Klamath Ranger District. The average number of seasonal visits ranges from a high of
5,200 at the Great Meadow Snow Park to a low of 850 at the Four Mile Lake Road Snow
Park.
Chemult Ranger District. Within the Chemult Ranger District, which borders
the park to the west, there are approximately 61 miles of snowmobile trails. Table B4 in
Appendix B lists these trails. The longest trail in this district is the Park Boundary/Lake
of the Woods trail (44.2 miles), which is typically used to travel from Diamond Lake to
Annie Creek or from Lake of the Woods to Diamond Lake. The trail is not heavily used
because there are limited enroute facilities. (Parker pers. comm.)
Existing Policy Regarding Snowmobile Use in Crater Lake National Park
The existing policy of allowing snowmobiles only on the north entrance road between
Highway 138 (north entrance) and North Junction is the result of an extensive public
involvement and decision-making process that took place during 1976. That decision-making
process is summarized here and addressed in greater detail later in this plan. A copy of the
position statement issued as a result of this process is included as Appendix C.
On February 26,- 1976, snowmobile regulations were proposed for Crater Lake
National Park and published in the Federal Register. The NPS received 607 responses, of
which the majority indicated a preference for no snowmobiling in the park. Other responses
favored snowmobiling or an increase in snowmobile access. In August 1976 the regulation
that limited snowmobile access to the north entrance road was enacted. Snowmobile use
was again addressed in the 1977 General Management Plan, and public comment again
supported limiting snowmobile use as defined in the 1976 regulation. A 1980 winter use
study considered five alternatives for snowmobile use within the park, including a through
JONES/CRMTMR WINTER USE
08/22/94e
34
route (north to south) and a route up the Pinnacles road from the former east entrance to
Kerr Notch. While there was significant support by organized snowmobile clubs for
expanded access, 74% of public responses regarding snowmobile use alternatives indicated
a preference for limiting snowmobiling to the north entrance road. Steep terrain near the
Watchman on West Rim Drive and at Dutton Cliffs along East Rim Drive was cited as a
safety hazard which precludes development of a north-south access route; therefore, only
the proposed route from the former east entrance along the Pinnacles road to Kerr Notch
was evaluated. The NPS determined that the Pinnacles road would remain closed to
snowmobiles for the following reasons:
*
*
*
*
*
safety hazards in the Dutton Cliffs area,
impacts (noise, odor, etc.) on cross-country skiers and other users,
impacts on peregrine falcons hunting in the Kerr Notch area,
conflicts with existing plans and policies, and
costs to the government.
Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is the most popular active winter recreation activity in the park.
There are approximately 70 miles of ungroomed marked cross-country ski trails, including
the Rim Drive Trail (Route UC1), portions of the Pacific Crest Trail (Route UC2),
Lightning Springs Trail (Route UC3), Pumice Flat Trail (Route UC4), Raven Trail (UCM),
Dutton Creek Trail (UC6), Hemlock Loop (UC7), Mazama Campground Trail (UC8), and
Crater Peak Trail (UC9). These trails are shown in Figure 3-2. Cross-country skiing in the
remainder of the park is unrestricted. The NPS uses 25 to 30 volunteers to patrol ski trails.
Patrols occur primarily on weekends and holidays. The most popular ski route is Rim
Drive, a 33-mile unplowed loop road around the lake. Park staff and ski patrol volunteers
conservatively estimate that between 200 and 300 cross-country skiers travel around the rim
each winter season. Cross-country ski equipment rental is provided at the Rim Village
activity center by the park concessioner.
Crater Lake Area Cross-Country Ski Trails
There are approximately 139 miles of cross-country ski trails in the three national
forests surrounding Crater Lake National Park. This total does not include cross-country
ski trails located within the park and is a conservative estimate, because it includes both
one-way and round-trip miles. Trails are described in the following section. Table B-6 in
Appendix B of this document lists each trail and its length.
JONES/CRATR WINTER USE
08/22194c
3-5
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Figure 3-2. Crater Lake National Park Cross-Country Ski Trails
8/f/94e-
3-6
E\L
Umpqua National Forest
Diamond Lake Ranger District. There are approximately 54 miles of crosscountry ski trails in the Umpqua National Forest's Diamond Lake Ranger District. The
longest trail, which is 10.5 miles long, is along a portion of the Pacific Crest Trail. This trail
is in a wilderness area and is therefore unmarked.
Rogue River National Forest. There are approximately 45 miles of cross-country ski
trails in the Rogue River National Forest. The longest is the 10-mile Union Creek trail,
which begins and ends at the Farwell Bend Snow Park previously described. Table B-3 of
Appendix B shows that of the 4,480 winter visitors to the Farwell Bend Snow Park during
the 1991-92 season approximately 12% (538) were cross-country skiers. Of all winter visitors
(6,210) during the 1992-93 season, 18% (1,118) were cross-country skiers. Data show that
more cross-country skiers use the Farwell Bend Snow Park than the Thousand Springs Snow
Park. This is likely due to the fact that snowmobile use is not allowed at Farwell Bend
Snow Park.
Winema National Forest
Klamath Ranger District. There are approximately 40 miles of cross-country
ski trails in the Klamath Ranger District. The longest is the Billie Creek Loop, which is
approximately 6.6 miles long; the shortest is the South Rye Trail, which is less than 1 mile
long. Recreation data show that an average of 7,100 people participate in cross-country
skiing seasonally within the Klamath Ranger District. However, 1993-94 data reflect an
above-average number of cross-country ski visits.
, Chemult Ranger District. The Chemult Ranger District is located adjacent
to portions of the eastern border of Crater Lake National Park. Currently there are no
cross-country ski trails within the Chemult Ranger District near the park boundary (Parker
pers. comm.).
Snowshoe Walks
Snowshoeing is an individual or guided interpretive activity in the park. Guided
snowshoe walks are offered by the NPS twice daily on weekends, holidays, and during
Christmas and spring breaks. Group walks are offered on weekdays by reservation. The
primary purpose for guided snowshoe walks is to provide the winter visitor with a unique
opportunity to view park resources from a perspective different than that experienced during
the summer season. Guided walks are approximately 0.5 mile in length and originate at
Rim Village. Snowshoes can be rented at the activity center. Snowshoeing is unrestricted
throughout the park.
During the 1993-94 winter season, guided interpretive snowshoe walks were offered
from Thanksgiving Day to April 23, 1994. On occasion, scheduled walks were canceled
JONES/CRATER wVnTER USE
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3-7
because the road to Rim Village was closed as a result of heavy snows or because no one
signed up for the tour. (Taylor pers. comm.) Table 3-1 shows the number of tours given
per month and the number of people in attendance. As shown, 89 tours were given during
the 1993-94 season. A total of 807 visitors participated.
Snow Play
Snow play includes sledding, innertubing, tobogganing, and various other snow play
activities. There are no designated or monitored snow play areas in the park; however,
these activities do occur near Rim Village, in meadows or clearings, and along the roadside.
Park policy does not restrict these activities; however, snow play is not an encouraged
activity in the park. The park does not support development of designated snow play areas
because snow play is not an activity that enhances the opportunity to experience park
resources during the winter season. There are several snow parks monitored and
maintained by the U.S. Forest Service located near the park.
Overnight Camping - Frontcountry
Frontcountry areas, by NPS definition, include developed areas of the park such as
designated camping areas, Rim Village, Munson Valley, Mazama Village, and all other
infrastructure. Currently, winter overnight recreational vehicle and car camping is allowed
in Rim Village within a small designated area. Winter campers have access to the heated
comfort station and telephone which are maintained year-round in Rim Village. Current
NPS policy neither prohibits nor supports overnight camping in this area. Park staff do not
keep records regarding overnight visitors; however, overnight visitor parties generally range
from zero to three per night. Concern exists regarding the safety of overnight camping in
Rim Village as snow storms can trap vehicles or leave roads impassable.
Overnight Camping - Backcountry
By NPS definition, backcountry areas are located away from plowed roadways and
developed areas such as Rim Village and Munson Valley. These areas are not maintained
but are patrolled by volunteers and park personnel. Backcountry areas are generally used
in winter by visitors seeking solitude. Use of these areas is permitted throughout the park
with little restriction; however, all visitors must obtain a permit for overnight stays.
Table 3-2 summarizes annual backcountry permit data from 1988 through 1993. The
average annual growth rate shows a 1.2% increase in winter backcountry use over the last
JONES/CRAT
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WINTE
USE
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Table 3-1. Guided Snowshoe Walks in Crater Lake National Park
1993-94 Winter Season
Number of
Tours
Month
Total
Participants
November 1993
8
92
December 1993
January 1994
February 1994
March 1994
13
15
8
37
60
126
57
431
89
41
807
April 1994
Total
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior 1994c.
Table 3-2. Winter and Summer Overnight Backcountry Use
in Crater Lake National Park
Totals
Winter
Campers
Summer
Campers
Winter Visitor
Nights
Summer Visitor
Nights
1988
392
445
760
664
1989
1990
1991
456
321
576
424
442
813
1992
279
291
413
312
763
566
717
519
838
1,077
1993
421
626
746
956
6-year AAGR
1.2%
5.9%
-0.3%
6.3%
Year
AAGR = Average annual growth rate
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior 1994d.
JONES/CRATER WNTM USE
08/2/94c
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6 years; however, the total number of visitor nights has decreased by 0.3% annually. NPS
data show that backcountry visitors stay an average of 1.6 nights in the park and have an
average party size of 3.3 people.
Existing Winter Concessioner Facilities
The park concessioner currently operates the Rim Village cafeteria/gift shop during
the winter season. The facility is open from 9:30 am. to sunset daily except for Christmas
Day. The concessioner facilities include a cafeteria serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner;
snowshoe and cross-country ski rentals; and a gift store. It is estimated that 750 people rent
snowshoe and cross-country ski packages each season, generating approximately $6,000.00
in revenue. Winter operations in Rim Village currently employ 16 people and generate
between 3% and 6% of the concessioner's annual revenue. (Gordon pers. comm.)
08/22/94e
3-10
Chapter 4
Winter Use Plan
Chapter 4.
Winter Use Plan
WINTER USE PLANNING PROCESS
Development of the winter use plan began with a series of park staff and consultant
planning meetings held at Crater Lake National Park headquarters in early November 1993.
The purpose of these meetings was to discuss the overall scope of the winter use plan,
identify issues to be addressed in the plan, and develop a series of draft alternative winter
use scenarios that would provide a framework for public discussion regarding the future of
winter use in the park. The winter use alternatives described varying levels of use and
locations for the four active winter uses described earlier.
Public meetings were held in Klamath Falls, Medford, Roseburg, and Portland,
Oregon, during the week of January 10, 1994. These meetings provided the public an
opportunity to discuss and comment on the four draft alternative winter use scenarios. A
Public Meeting Workbook discussing the planning process was distributed to those in
attendance and is provided for reference as Appendix D of this document. Approximately
190 people attended the four meetings. More than 135 written comment letters were
received.
The draft winter use plan and environmental assessment were issued for public
review in April 1994. Public meetings were held in Bend, Klamath Falls, Medford,
Roseburg, and Portland. These meetings provided the public an opportunity to comment
on the preferred winter use plan alternative. Approximately 42 people attended these
meetings; 257 written comment letters were received.
THE WINTER USE PLAN
The winter use plan was developed consistent with existing NPS policy and public
opinion regarding winter use in Crater Lake National Park. The preferred alternative,
which was selected from the four draft alternatives, addresses levels of use and areas within
the park most suitable for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and overnight
camping. All existing active winter uses, with the exception of overnight frontcountry
camping, were found appropriate for Crater Lake National Park and will continue based on
provisions in this plan. Through implementation of the preferred winter use alternative, the
NPS seeks to provide all winter visitors with access to the park's primary resource while
maintaining quiet and solitude in backcountry wilderness areas.
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Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling is considered an appropriate use along the north entrance road.
Because this area currently provides the only point of access for snowmobiles and conflicts
with other user groups are minimal, access via this route will continue. Additional
snowmobile access via the Pinnacles Road to Kerr Notch will not be permitted.
Commercial snowmobile and snowcoach tours will continue operating from Diamond Lake
pursuant to commercial use license conditions. Justification for NPS policy regarding this
issue is provided below.
As discussed, the quiet and solitude experienced in the Crater Lake National Park
backcountry is a unique resource and an important element of the backcountry wilderness
experience for many winter visitors, particularly cross-country skiers. Those seeking this type
of experience must make a significant effort to reach the remote wilderness areas of the
park that would be easily accessible by snowmobile. By nature, the noise and exhaust
emissions generated by snowmobiles conflict with the quiet and solitude sought by those
skiing in the backcountry areas of the park. Crater Lake National Park provides one of the
few areas in the region where cross-country skiers can have a true winter wilderness
experience without significant conflict with other user groups. Existing conflicts are minimal
for those skiing Rim Drive because interaction with snowmobiles occurs only at North
Junction.
The quiet and solitude experienced in the park's backcountry is considered a
resource; therefore, it is the responsibility of the NPS to preserve and protect this resource
for existing and future park users. While additional snowmobile access would provide
further lake viewing opportunities, it does not justify the significant effect that snowmobile
noise and intrusion would have on backcountry quiet and solitude.
Further justification regarding this policy decision is as follows:
*
Avalanche hazards in the Dutton Cliffs area near Kerr Notch threaten safe
passage of grooming equipment and snowmobiles along the Pinnacles Road and
East Rim Drive.
*
NPS policy requires that snowmobile use be confined to roadways used by
vehicles during the summer season and closed to vehicles during the winter.
Snow drifts and steep terrain near Dutton Cliffs and the Watchman preclude safe
use of trail grooming machinery and snowmobiles on either West or East Rim
Drive.
*
Public comment regarding this issue favored maintaining the existing access
route. Of the 257 comment letters received, 152 favored maintaining existing
access while 105 favored expanded access. The winter use plan provides park
access to all user groups while maintaining a balance consistent with existing
NPS policy and public opinion.
08/22/94e
4-2
The existing cross-country ski trail system will be maintained and cross-country skiing
will continue under the unrestricted day use or overnight backcountry permit system. This
element of the winter use plan seeks to preserve the opportunity for a quiet, solitary
experience for winter users in the park's backcountry. Cross-country skiing is considered an
appropriate winter use throughout the park because it is a low-impact form of travel that
provides participants access to all wilderness backcountry areas while preserving the quiet
and solitude unique to Crater Lake National Park. There will be no machine grooming of
ski trails and no hut-to-hut system developed within the park.
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing will remain an unrestricted use within the park. Guided interpretive
snowshoe walks will continue at Rim Village based on visitor demand. If year-round visitor
facilities were to be developed in Mazama Village, the NPS would consider offering guided
interpretive snowshoe walks in that area.
No frontcountry overnight camping will be permitted in the park during the winter
season. All overnight campers will be referred to year-round privately owned facilities at
lower elevations outside the park. Frontcountry camping currently occurs in Rim Village;
though it is not prohibited by existing park policy, it is not a sanctioned use. Park staff have
determined that unpredictable weather and hazardous road conditions during the winter
season often make the Rim Village area unsafe for overnight frontcountry camping.
Moreover, NPS regulations prohibit camping outside of designated campgrounds.
Development of overnight camping facilities will be reevaluated based on future
development in the Mazama Village area.
Overnight Camping - Backeountry
Backcountry camping will continue under the existing permit system as described in
the Existing Winter Visitor Use section of this document.
08/=2/94e
4-3
Year-Round Lodging
As discussed in Chapter 2, existing 1977 and 1988 planning documents approve the
addition of up to 40 lodging units in Mazama Village. These proposals were considered
during the winter use planning process in relation to subsequent events, environmental
analysis, and park staff and public comment.
The preferred winter use plan alternative does not propose an expansion of activities
in Mazama Village which would justify the immediate construction of year-round lodging
units. Should the proposed plan be implemented, it is difficult to predict the future level
of winter use in the park. It is similarly uncertain whether private, year-round lodging is
viable or will be developed within reasonable commute distance of the park within the
foreseeable future. Rather than amend two approved documents which make provisions for
additional lodging units in Mazama Village, including possible winter lodging, this plan
proposes to defer the final decision on lodging until the issue can be reevaluated in the
year 2000.
A demand analysis for winter lodging in Mazama Village was prepared as part of the
winter use planning process and is located in Appendix E of this document.
WINTER USE ALTERNATIVES
The following winter use alternative scenarios were developed as part of the planning
process and presented during the public meetings held in January 1994. The alternatives
were intended to provide a framework for public discussion regarding the future of winter
use in Crater Lake National Park. Each alternative supports varying types and levels of
winter use. The purpose of this section is to briefly describe each alternative relative to
existing park policy and public opinion.
Alternative 2 - Reduced Winter Use
This alternative supports reducing winter use in the park and would place greater
emphasis on maintaining and restoring the park's winter quiet and solitude. Alternative use
scenarios for each winter activity are presented below.
Snowmobiling
Under this alternative, all mechanized snow machine use would be eliminated from
the park. No snowmobile/snowcoach access would be permitted via the north entrance
JONES/CRA1R WINTER USE
O8/22Me
4-4
road. This was not consistent with existing park policy and public opinion, both of which
support continued snowmobile access along the north entrance road.
Under this alternative, cross-country ski routes would remain unchanged; however,
the north entrance road would be made available as a cross-country ski trail. Cross-country
skiing opportunities under this alternative seek to maintain quiet and solitude for winter
users in the park's backcountry by encouraging nonmotorized, low-impact modes of travel.
Snowshoeing
Under this alternative, snowshoe walks would continue at Rim Village based on
funding and demand.
Under this alternative, frontcountry camping in Rim Village would be permitted in
the designated area; however, no provisions would be made to accommodate this use. As
discussed, overnight camping in Rim Village is considered unsafe and therefore is prohibited
under the preferred alternative.
Under this alternative, overnight backcountry camping would be prohibited. All
backcountry activities would be limited to day use. Prohibiting overnight backcountry
camping would be inconsistent with the role of the NPS, which is to facilitate the visitor's
encounter with the natural environment by providing access to educational opportunities
within park boundaries. In addition, public comments that addressed this issue supported
either maintaining the existing backcountry permit system or developing a hut-to-hut system
to enhance the backcountry experience.
Alternative 3 - Expanded Cross-Country Skiing
This alternative places emphasis on expanding cross-country skiing opportunities in
the park by developing a groomed trail network in the Mazama Village area. In addition,
facilities for overnight frontcountry camping would be provided in Mazama Village,
assuming that development in this area occurred.
08/22/94e
4-5
Snowmobiles
Under this alternative, the existing snowmobile route along the north entrance road
would be maintained. No additional snowmobile access would be provided.
Under this alternative, the existing ungroomed cross-country ski trail network would
be maintained. In addition, a groomed cross-country ski trail system would be developed
in Mazama Village. The preferred alternative supports maintaining the existing crosscountry trail network; however, no groomed trail system will be developed.
Development and maintenance of a groomed trail system in the park would require
the use of mechanized snow machines or grooming equipment and would therefore disrupt
the quiet and solitude of Crater Lake's backcountry areas, which has been identified as an
important resource. In addition, although it would provide opportunities for beginning
skiers, a groomed trail system would serve primarily as a recreational activity and would not
enhance the participants' opportunity to enjoy park resources. For the majority of skiers
who provided written response to the draft alternatives, a groomed trail system is not
essential for use and enjoyment of Crater Lake National Park and would detract from the
park's backcountry wilderness experience. The U.S. Forest Service and Diamond Lake
Resort provide groomed cross-country ski trails outside park boundaries.
Snowshoeing
Under this alternative, snowshoe walks would remain as previously discussed under
the preferred alternative, with the option for additional guided walks in Mazama Village if
this area is developed for winter use.
Under this alternative, as with the preferred alternative, frontcountry camping would
be prohibited in Rim Village. Camping facilities would be provided in Mazama Village if
development were to occur in this area.
The existing backcountry permit system would be maintained under this alternative.
In addition, the NPS would explore the option of developing a hut-to-hut system in the park
to enhance the use of backcountry areas. Public opinion does not support development of
JONES/CRATER WINTR USE
08/22/94e
4-6
a hut-to-hut system in the park, as many visitors feel it would detract from the backcountry
wilderness experience. In addition, heavy snowfall would make maintenance of a hut-to-hut
system very difficult.
Existing NPS policy regarding winter backcountry use seeks to preserve the solitude
of the backcountry experience by restricting size of visitor parties to no more than eight
people, and requires parties to camp beyond visible range of one another. Development of
a hut-to-hut system could compromise the backcountry experience by congregating groups
of backcountry users near the huts, causing user conflicts and generating sanitation
problems. In addition to impacts to the backcountry wilderness experience, the NPS has
determined that winter snow levels would make maintenance and management of a hut-tohut system in Crater Lake National Park impractical.
Alternative 4 - Expanded Cross-Country Skiing and Snowinobiling
Under this alternative, additional snowmobile access would be provided and groomed
cross-country ski trails would be developed along portions of Rim Drive. Other activities
would remain as described under Alternative 3.
Snowmobiling
Under this alternative, a new snowmobile route would be developed along the
Pinnacles road from the former east entrance to the Phantom Ship overlook at Kerr Notch.
This element would change the existing park policy regarding snowmobile use in the park,
which seeks to preserve the opportunity for a quiet, solitary experience for winter users in
the park's backcountry areas. After review and evaluation of public comment, it was
concluded that existing policy is appropriate.
Under this alternative, the existing ungroomed cross-country ski trail system would
be maintained, a groomed trail system would be developed in Mazama Village, and the NPS
would explore the possibility of developing of groomed trails on portions of Rim Drive.
Public comment does not favor this alternative; therefore, the NPS will not develop groomed
trails in the park.
Snowshoeing
Under this alternative, snowshoe walks would remain as described in Alternative 3.
08/22/94-
4-7
Overnight Camping
-
Fronteountry
Frontcountry camping under this alternative would be as described under
Alternative 3.
Backcountry camping under this alternative would remain as under existing
conditions.
JONES/CRATER VI~nI
08f22/94c
USE
4-8
Chapter 5
Chapter 5.
PURPOSE AND NEED
Winter use in Crater Lake National Park has in the past been managed in
accordance with existing plans and NPS policy. However, the growth in winter use in Crater
Lake National Park has raised concerns regarding potential impacts on park resources, the
need for additional visitor services, and the direction the NPS should take regarding overall
winter recreation management. As growth in winter visitation continues, the need for a
long-range planning strategy is becoming more evident.
This environmental assessment identifies and evaluates environmental impacts
associated with implementation of the winter use plan and alternatives. With the exception
of frontcountry camping, the winter use plan proposes to maintain existing levels and
locations of winter use activities in Crater Lake National Park. It is not anticipated that the
winter use plan will cause environmental impacts within the park or on adjacent U.S. Forest
Service land. The detail of discussion for each environmental element in each alternative
is commensurate with the level of impact anticipated. Any unforeseen impacts will be
addressed and mitigated through the ongoing planning process.
This environmental assessment was prepared in compliance with the National
Environmental Policy Act Guideline NPS-12, the Endangered Species Act, the National
Historic Preservation Act, the Clean Air Act, and the Clean Water Act. Environmental
elements addressed in this environmental assessment are:
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
water resources,
wildlife,
air quality,
soils and vegetation,
threatened and endangered species,
cultural resources,
noise, and
recreation.
DESCRIPTION OF ALTERNATIVES
Four alternative winter use scenarios were developed. The alternatives describe
varying levels of use for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and overnight
camping. A description of the alternatives follows.
JONES/CRA&TR WINTER USE
O8//%4C
5-1
Alternative 1 - Winter Use Plan (Preferred Alternative)
Snowmobiling
Under this alternative, the current snowmobile/snowcoach route within the park will
remain between the north entrance and North Junction. No changes to existing snowmobile
routes will occur.
Under this alternative, ungroomed cross-country skiing opportunities within the park
will remain unchanged. The existing marked trail system will be maintained, and
unrestricted cross-country skiing will continue throughout the park.
Snowshoeing
Guided interpretive snowshoe walks will continue. However, the number and
frequency of snowshoe walks could change based on funding and public demand.
Winter frontcountry camping would be prohibited in the park. Those visitors wanting
to camp overnight would be referred to year-round private facilities outside park boundaries.
Overnight Camping - Backeountry
Winter backcountry camping will continue based on the current permit system.
Alternative 2 - Reduced Winter Use Opportunities
Snowinobiling
Under this alternative, all use of mechanized snow machines (snowmobiles and
snowcoaches) within the park would be phased out; however, use of snowmobiles within the
park for winter search-and-rescue activities would be allowed.
08/2214e
5-2
Same as in Alternative 1.
Snowshoeing
Overnight Camping - Fronteountry
Under this alternative, no overnight winter backcountry camping would be allowed
in the park. All backcountry activities would be restricted to day use.
Alternative 3 - Expanded Cross-County Skiing
Snowmobiling
Under this alternative, the existing ungroomed trail network would be maintained.
Unrestricted cross-country ski use would continue to be allowed throughout the park. A
groomed trail system would be created at Mazama Village within existing campground
roadways. The purpose of this trail system would be to provide a more sheltered location
for beginning cross-country skiers. The visitor experience could be enhanced by including
an interpretive component designed to educate users about the Mazama Village area and
surrounding ecosystem. Cross-country ski instruction could be provided if sufficient demand
existed. Instruction would not be provided by the NPS. Year-round lodging, food service,
and equipment rental at Mazama Village could be supported under this alternative, because
greater winter visitor use in this area would increase demand for lodging and other services.
08/22/94.
5-3
Snowshoeing
Same as in Alternative 1, with the option for additional snowshoe walks from
Mazama Village.
Overnight recreational vehicle parking and camping would be prohibited in Rim
Village and Munson Valley. Facilities or spaces for overnight recreational vehicle and car
camping would be provided in Mazama Village.
The existing overnight backcountry permit camping system would be maintained. In
addition, the NPS would explore development of a hut-to-hut cross-country ski system within
the park to increase opportunities for winter backcountry use.
Alternative 4 - Expanded Cross-Country Skiing and Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling
In addition to the existing snowmobile/snowcoach route from the north entrance to
North Junction, snowmobiles would be allowed access to the rim via the Pinnacles road.
Snowmobiles would enter and exit the park via the former east entrance and travel on the
Pinnacles road to and from the Phantom Ship overlook at Kerr Notch. This would provide
an additional 12-mile round-trip route for snowmobile use in the park. A route along the
northeast portion of Rim Drive linking the Pinnacles road with North Junction is not
proposed, because of steep terrain and avalanche hazards in the Dutton Cliffs area.
In addition to the cross-country skiing system described under Alternative 3, the NPS
would explore the possibility of developing a groomed trail system on Rim Drive.
Alternatively, a groomed trail could be established on Rim Drive east to Vidae Falls or Sun
Notch, and possibly west to the Lightning Springs trailhead.
Snowshoeing
08/22/94e
5-4
Overnight Camping
-
Frontcountry
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
The Winter Use Plan
Water Resources
There is no evidence indicating that existing winter recreation activities have an
impact on water resources. It is unlikely that pollutants build up in concentrations large
enough to cause a measurable impact on surface water quality. Use of snowmobiles and
other mechanized snow machines is prohibited near the caldera rim and confined to the
north entrance road. As a result, oil or other chemicals that may leak from the snow
machines do not enter Crater Lake. Additionally, there are no surface water bodies in
proximity to the north entrance road that would be contaminated by exhaust emissions or
chemicals leaked from snow machines.
To protect water resources from backcountry skiing and camping activities,
regulations require that all campsites be located at least 100 feet from any surface water
body. In 1989, the NPS completed a 10-year study evaluating the clarity of Crater Lake.
Results indicated that existing park activities have not harmed the water quality of Crater
Lake though continued monitoring is critical. Because winter use in the park will remain
much as it is under existing conditions, it is unlikely that impacts on surface water resources
would occur. Implementation of this alternative would not affect floodplains.
Wildlife
Crater Lake National Park is not heavily used by wildlife during the winter months,
because many of the larger animals, such as deer and elk, migrate to lower elevations to
escape deep snow conditions. Other animals hibernate during the winter season. The
species that do live at higher elevations during the winter are minimally affected by existing
winter activities. There is no evidence indicating that existing winter use activities in Crater
Lake National Park adversely affect wildlife. While winter visitor use is expected to increase
minimally (1 to 3% annually), the types of activities and areas where they occur are not
expected to change. Therefore, impacts to wildlife species are not expected to occur.
JONES/CRATER WINW USE
08/22/94C
5-5
Air Quality
Snowmobile and motor vehicle exhaust would continue and potentially increase
proportional to increased snowmobile use and the number of motor vehicles entering the
park. However, neither snowmobile nor vehicle traffic occurs in volumes great enough to
cause notable impacts on air quality. It is unlikely that emissions would noticeably increase
as a result of plan implementation. Air quality would remain within Class I area standards.
Soils and Vegetation
Implementation of the winter use plan would not cause impacts on soils or vegetation
within the park. Soils are covered by several feet of snow during the winter season, and the
winter use plan does not propose to develop any structures or facilities to support winter
activities.
Snowmobiles are required to stay on roadway corridors used during the summer
season. Though the resulting snow compaction alters the pattern of snow melt, impacts on
vegetation from snowmobile use are not expected to occur. In addition, backcountry fires
are prohibited during the winter season to protect standing vegetation.
Threatened and Endangered Species
Based on very limited information, implementation of the winter use plan would not
impact on threatened or endangered species inhabiting Crater Lake National Park
an
have
during the winter. A pair of peregrine falcons are known to nest in the caldera during the
spring and summer months, and it is assumed that they hunt at the park's higher elevations
throughout the entire year, although probably at a reduced level during the winter months
when the prey base is reduced. There is no indication that existing winter activities in the
park adversely affect these species. Under the preferred alternative, active winter use in
Crater Lake National Park will continue, for the most part, as it has in past years. While
the number of winter visitors to the park may increase, the types of activities and where
these activities occur are not expected to change. Therefore, implementation of the winter
use plan is not expected to affect threatened or endangered species; however, additional
studies and monitoring are necessary.
Cultural Resources
As discussed, implementation of the winter use plan would not require construction
Therefore,
of structures, roads, or other facilities to support winter recreation.
implementation of the winter use plan would not affect structures, landscapes, or road and
trail segments of historical or cultural significance.
JONES/CRAlT
08/22/94e
WINIER USE
5-6
Noise
Snowmobile use generates the greatest amount of noise of any winter use activity
occurring within the park. Snowmobile use will be confined to the existing route along the
north entrance road; as a result, noise impacts resulting from plan implementation are not
expected to increase. As discussed, it is the NPS's intent that the quiet and solitude of the
winter backcountry experienced be preserved. Therefore, no additional mechanized
equipment, such as trail groomers, will be permitted.
Recreation
Recreation impacts related to overnight camping in the Rim Village area would not
occur, because this activity will be prohibited under the preferred alternative. The plan
supports maintenance of existing recreational opportunities for snowmobiling, cross-country
skiing, snowshoeing, and overnight camping.
Alternative 2 - Reduced Winter Use
Water Resources
Under Alternative 2, the potential for impacts on water resources would be less
because the use of mechanized snow machines would not be permitted in the park, and
backcountry use would be restricted to day use. While there is no evidence indicating that
existing activities affect surface water resources, eliminating these uses from the park would
reduce potential impacts. Implementation of this alternative would not affect floodplains.
Wildlife
There is no indication that existing winter activities in Crater Lake National Park
adversely effect wildlife species. However, it is assumed that reduced winter use would have
a positive effect on species inhabiting the north area of the park or the backcountry areas
frequented by overnight campers.
Air Quality
Eliminating the use of mechanized snow machines in the park would eliminate snow
machine exhaust emissions. Existing emissions do not generate a noticeable air quality
impact in the park. If snowmobile use were eliminated, exhaust emissions related to these
machines would be eliminated. Although this would likely not result in a noticeable change
in air quality, short-term odors and irritants associated with snow machine exhaust would
not occur.
08/22/94c
5-7
No impacts on soil or vegetation occur during the winter season under existing
conditions, because snowmobiles are required to stay on road corridors, and because
campfires in the backcountry are prohibited. Reduced winter use would not have an impact
on soils and vegetation.
While there is no evidence indicating that winter activities have an impact on
threatened and endangered species in the park, reduced winter use would lessen impact
potential. Eliminating snowmobiling and backcountry camping from the park would reduce
noise and decrease human presence in the north entrance area and in the park's
backcbuntry. It is assumed that the reduced potential for impact would benefit any
threatened or endangered species in the area.
Cultural Resources
No cultural resources are affected by existing winter use. Reducing winter use would
have no affect on the park's cultural resources.
Noise
Eliminating the use of snowmobiles in the park would reduce existing intermittent
noise levels in the northern portion of the park. As discussed in the winter use plan, a
major objective of the NPS is to preserve the quiet and solitude of the park's backcountry
areas while providing access to all user groups.
Recreation
Under this alternative, winter recreation opportunities in Crater Lake National Park
would be reduced. Snowmobiling and overnight backcountry camping would be eliminated.
As data show, the number of visitors using backcountry areas during the winter is increasing.
Eliminating overnight backcountry camping would have an impact on users visiting the park
for this reason. In addition, eliminating snowmobile use would also have an impact on those
visitors entering the park by snowmobile via the north entrance road.
JONMS/CRATER WINTER USE
081 22/94
5-8
Water Resources
Impacts on water resources would be similar to those described for Alternative 1.
The impacts on water resources (e.g., Annie Creek) from development in Mazama Village
would be addressed in the environmental impact statement (EIS) being prepared for the
Development Concept Plan (DCP). Implementation of this alternative would not affect
floodplains.
Wildlife
Under this alternative, impacts on wildlife resources would be similar to those
described for the winter use plan, with the exception that intermittent disturbances could
occur in Mazama Village with expanded use of this area. It is unlikely that increased crosscountry skiing opportunities in the rim area would affect wildlife, because those few species
active during the winter months are accustomed to intermittent human activity.
Air Quality
Impacts would be similar to those described for Alternative 1.
No impacts on soils and vegetation would occur under this alternative.
Impacts on threatened and endangered species would be similar to those described
for Alternative 1. If Mazama Village were to be developed, impacts on threatened and
endangered species in the Mazama area would be evaluated in the DCP EIS.
Cultural Resources
Impacts on cultural resources would be the same as those described for Alternative 1.
However, if Mazama Village were to be developed, impacts on cultural resources in this
area would be addressed in the DCP EIS.
JONES/CRATER WITER USE
0B/22/9%e
5-9
Noise
Noise impacts associated with this alternative would be similar to those described for
Alternative 1. It is not anticipated that noise impacts under this alternative would affect the
quiet and solitude experienced in Crater Lake National Park's backcountry since crosscountry skiing is not an activity that generates a high level of noise.
Recreation
No impacts on recreation would occur under this alternative. Development of the
Mazama Village area would increase recreation opportunities in the park. The presence
of support facilities would further increase park visitation.
Alternative 4 - Expanded Snowmobiling and Cross-Country Skiing
Water Resources
Increased use of mechanized snow machines in the park would increase the potential
for impacts on water resources. An incremental increase in the release of pollutants such
as petroleum products would be anticipated under this alternative. Use of snow machines
and trail grooming equipment on the Pinnacles road would increase the potential for
impacts on Wheeler Creek. Cross-country ski trail grooming equipment would also increase
the potential for impacts downslope of groomed trail areas. Implementation of this
alternative would not affect floodplains.
Wildlife
Wildlife impacts under this alternative would be similar to those described under
Alternative 3. However, periodic short-term disturbance to wildlife could occur near Rim
Drive when mechanized trail grooming equipment operates in this area.
Air Quality
Increased use of mechanized snow machines in the park for trail grooming and
pleasure trips would increase overall emissions. However, it is difficult to predict whether
emissions would cause a noticeable air quality impact. Cross-country skiers and other
backcountry users may become more aware of snowmobile exhaust, thereby reducing the
user experience for those winter activities. In addition, exhaust from mechanized trail
groomers may impact cross-country skiers on East Rim Drive.
O/22/94c
5-10
Impacts on soils and vegetation would be similar to those described for Alternative 1.
Although activity in the park would likely increase, trail grooming and snowmobile use
would occur in existing road corridors.
Under this alternative, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling would increase around
and southeast of the rim. During the winter months, peregrine falcon activity in the park
is limited to perching, foraging, and occasional feeding on whatever avian prey is available.
According to Johnsgard (1990), peregrine falcon prey includes rock and mourning doves,
gray jays, waterfowl, and microtines (voles) during years of abundance. According to Follett
(1979), only the gray jay is commonly present during the winter months. Although no data
are available, peregrine falcon use of the park during the winter months is most likely low,
with wintering activity primarily in the snow-free lowland areas outside the park where prey
is in greater abundance (e.g., Klamath Lake).
Given the relatively minor increases in use that would occur under this alternative
(groomed cross-country ski trails along portions of the rim and an additional 6 one-way
miles of snowmobile trail), this alternative would not have a significant adverse impact on
threatened or endangered species.
Cultural Resources
No impacts on cultural resources would occur under this alternative.
Noise
Noise impacts would increase with the use of mechanized snow machines along the
Pinnacles road. Increased noise would disrupt the quiet and solitude of the existing Crater
Lake backcountry experience. This impact would be inconsistent with Management
Objective 4, which seeks to maintain the quiet and solitude of the backcountry areas by
minimizing use of motorized, over-snow machines.
Recreation
Recreation opportunities would increase for snowmobilers and cross-country skiers
under this alternative. An additional snowmobile route along the Pinnacles road, along with
groomed ski trails along portions of Rim Drive, would increase recreation opportunities for
both user groups.
JONES/CRATER WVNTER USE
08/22/94e
5-11
Cumulative Impacts
No significant cumulative impacts from implementation of the proposed winter use
plan alternative, or from other actions such as the 1988 DCP are anticipated. Because this
plan does not support or encourage new activities or increased use levels for existing
activities, environmental issues associated with development of additional facilities will be
evaluated in future documents.
LIST OF PERSONS AND AGENCIES CONSULTED
Eixenberger, Don.
Research analyst.
Oregon State Parks Department, Salem, OR.
February 2, 1994 - telephone conversation.
Lynn, Elwood. Maintenance chief. National Park Service, Crater Lake, OR. January 4,
1994 - telephone conversation.
Mark, Steve. Crater Lake National Park historian. Crater Lake National Park, Crater
Lake, OR. January 25, 1994 - telephone conversation.
Wojahn, Mark. Diamond Lake Resort, Diamond Lake, OR. February 3, 1994 - telephone
conversation.
0S/22/94e
5-12
Chapter 6
Citations
Chapter 6.
Citations
PRINTED REFERENCES
Follett, R. 1979. Birds of Crater Lake National Park. Crater Lake National History
Association. Crater Lake, OR. Prepared for U.S. Department of the Interior, National
Park Service.
Johnsgard, P. A. 1990. Hawks, eagles and falcons of North America.
Institution Press. Washington, DC.
Smithsonian
Jones & Stokes Associates, Inc. 1993a. Threatened, endangered, and sensitive animals.
Rim Village, Munson Valley, Mazama Village, and Panhandle Study Areas at Crater
Lake National Park. December 15. (JSA 93-152.) Bellevue, WA. Prepared for
National Park Service, Denver Service Center, Western Team, Denver, CO.
1993b. Wetland delineation report. Rim Village, Munson Valley, Mazama Village,
______
and Panhandle study areas at Crater Lake National Park. Bellevue, WA. Prepared for
U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Denver, CO.
Oregon State Parks and Recreation Division.
1988-1993. Salem, OR.
1988. Oregon outdoor recreation plan
Sierra Club. 1985. The Sierra Club guides to the National Parks of the Pacific Northwest
and Alaska. Random House. New York, NY.
U.S. Council on Environmental Quality. 1970. Environmental quality: the first annual
report of the Council on Environmental Quality. U.S. Government Printing Office.
Washington, DC.
U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service. 1988. Crater Lake National Park
Mazama Campground/Rim Village development concept plan (Amendment to the
general management plan). Denver Service Center. Denver, CO.
1991. The Vail agenda (National parks for the 21st century). Washington, DC.
.
1993.
Briefing report, Rim Village redevelopment.
Denver Service Center.
Denver, CO.
______
1994a. Crater Lake National Park monthly visitation statistics. Crater Lake, OR.
JONES/MAMMR WIND USB
08/22/%6
6-1
. 1994b. Crater Lake National Park climate data. Crater Lake, OR.
. 1994c. Guided snowshoe walk participant data. Crater Lake, OR.
. 1994d. Backcountry permit data. Crater Lake, OR.
U.S. Forest Service, Winema National Forest, Klamath Ranger District. 1994. Snow park
visitor data. Klamath Falls, OR.
PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONS
Benson, Frank. Resort employee. Diamond Lake Resort, Diamond Lake, OR. February 4,
Eixenberger, Don.
Research analyst.
Oregon State Parks Department, Salem, OR.
February 2, 1994 - telephone conversation.
Gordon, Dick.
Concessions manager.
Crater Lake Lodge, Inc., Crater Lake, OR.
January 28, 1994 - telephone conversation.
Graves, Keith. Recreation forester. U.S. Forest Service, Umpqua National Forest,
Diamond Lake Ranger District, Diamond Lake, OR. January 24, 1994 - telephone
conversation.
Lynn, Elwood. Maintenance chief. National Park Service, Crater Lake, OR. January 4,
Mark, Steve. Crater Lake National Park historian. Crater Lake National Park, Crater
Lake, OR. January 25, 1994 - telephone conversation.
Parker, Judith. Recreation planner. U.S. Forest Service, Winema National Forest, Chemalt
Ranger District, Chemalt, OR. January 25, 1994 - telephone conversation.
Street, Butch. Program auditor. National Park Service, Denver, CO. February 9, 1994 telephone conversation.
Taylor, Kent. Chief interpreter. Crater Lake National Park, Crater Lake, OR. January 25,
1994 - facsimile.
Wojahn, Mark. Diamond Lake Resort, Diamond Lake, OR. February 3, 1994 - telephone
conversation.
JONES/CRATnR WINTER USE
08/22/e
6-2
Appendix A
Comments and Responses
ICRATER LAKE NAT
L PARK
.F-10410 M I]I11Di
Dave Morris
Superintendent, Crater Lake Nat'l Park
P.O. Box 7
Crater Lake, OR 97604
May 19,
May 19,
P.O. Box 5596
* Bend, OR 97708
1994
1994
Dear Mr. Morris,
David Morris, Superintendent
PO Box 7
RATER LJ E
AhPARK
I have heard that you are considering opening some or all of the
Rim Drive to snowmobiles. I am writing to express the strongest
possible objection to that plan.
I have traveled in mountains'around the world and NOTHING can
compare to the peace, quiet and beauty of Crater Lake in winter.
Allowing the noise, lights and other disruptive qualities of
snowmobiles into such a pristine--almost holy--place is an
extremely disturbing thought to me and many people I know. It
would be a tragic loss of Oregon's single greatest wild place.
Dear Mr. Morris:
I can only encourage you to consider saving this remaining
wilderness experience so that our great, great, great
grandchildren can have the same experience that John Wesley
Hillman might have when he first
viewed the lake in winter.
Thank you for your consideration.
I have spoken with many club members regarding this issue and we
would support any and all effort to gain access to the rim of
Crater Lake National Park beyond where we are allowed now. As I
understand the'preliminary plans, this would give us access to the
park from the east and Klamath Falls area, which would be much more
convenient for snowmobilers coming from those areas.
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
Tim Bra
P.O. Box 10655
Portland, OR 97210
Scott Groshens
My name is Scott Groshens,
president elect for Moon Country
Snowmobile Club in Bend, Oregon.
I au writing this letter
in
support of obtaining snowmobile access on the east side of Crater
Lake from Pinnacle Road to Ker Notch.
SC/cd
2.
16 May 1994
P.O. Box 98
Prospect 0
May 19, 19
Re:
__
_
GAE I v EAR
<
David K. Morris, Superintendent
P.O. Box 7
Mr. David K. Morris
Superintendent
P.O. Box 7
crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake, OR
97604
Dear
CrATE
~~~~~~~
i
IGRATER LAKE NAT'L PARK|
Dear David,
Winter use Plan,
We were unable to attend the recent public meeting In Klamath Falls on the
Winter Use Plan for Crater Lake. We have received a copy of the draft Plan and
have read it. In general, we agree with the Preferred Plan. This letter is to
express that agreement, and to reiterate as strongly as possible our opposition to
additional snowmobile useage In the Park.
Draft Comments
Superintendent Morris:
Thank you for the draft copy.
It is very comprehensive and well
done, and our one comment would be that we vigorously support
Alternative 2.
Such a beautiful and pristine environment as
the lake and the surrounding park should be preserved as near
as possible to nature's original development.
Noise pollution
is as intrusive as visual and material pollution.
Very truly yours,
I know a number of snowmobiiers and they are nice people. I honestly think they
have no idea how offensive their machines are to other users, or how simply
Inappropriate their useage Is In a National Park. Because they don't object to
cross-country skiers, they seem to feel that cross-country skiers shouldn't object
to them - but that basically Illustrates the point they seem to miss. Cross-country
skiing is a compatible winter use, compatible with the environment, other users
and the Park's mission. Snowmobiling, on the other hand, Is an Intrusion Into the
environment, disrupts the enjoyment of- and even angers- other users, and is
antithetical to the Park's mission of preserving Its resource, its natural beauty and
its fragile ecosystem. I wouldn't argue avalanche danger or anything else snowmobiling just doesn't fit. Period.
dezed
Thanks for the opportunity to reinforce my earlier comments.
There are existing hundreds of miles of roads in all the surrounding
National Forests that lend themselves perfectly to multiple winter
use.
Thank you for the opportunity to offer our comment.
&,Zx
Alex M. Hamilton, Jr.
Bette J. Hamilton
3
Sincerely yours,
Sally Wa
3333 Hwy 422
Chiloquln, OR 97624
H
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Gzcgvof State-~rswmovbile Assocain-
Howard Gieger
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PiblIORGO
P.O.
Box
249
JohD
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W3)
S2106(cSS / FAX)
W) 5r12h2l(Home)
(03)57-1661i
(Ww)
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Peggy Ser
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P.O.Bo..435
b m Omo 97739
14W-6SNOW
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(7669)
PAX5364099
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MAY 15,1994
&Ci--'
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MR. DAVID MORRIS, SUPERINTENDENT,
CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK,
PO BOX 7,
a
CRATER LAKE,
DEAR MR.
OREGON
V
B
CRATER [AKE NATL PARK
97604.
MORRIS:
FOLLOWING OUR MEETING HERE IN BEND LAST WEEK,
I GATHER THERE ARE
NO PLANS AFOOT TO INCREASE SNOWMOBILING IN CRATER
LAKE NATIONAL
PARK.
.
A-At e1
J
HOWEVER, SINCE ALTERNATIVE 4 IS NO LONGER EVEN
A CONSIDERATION, I
WOULD HEREBY LIKE TO VOICE MY PERSONAL OPINION
THAT, AT THE VERY
LEAST, THE EAST ENTRANCE, AT PINNACLE ROAD, BE
OPENED TO
SNOWMOBILING TO THE KERR NOTCH AREA.
FROM THERE, WE WOULD BE
RETURNING ON THE SAME ROUTE.
Qqw
LI
THIS WOULD AFFORD ACCESS TO THE PARK FROM THE EAST AND
KLAMATH
FALLS AREA, WHICH WOULD BE MUCH MORE CONVENIENT FOR
THOSE
SNOWMOBILERS.
WE WOULD ALSO EXPECT THE PRESENT,
AS IT NOW
IS.
NORTH ENTRANCE, TO REMAIN OPEN
THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR THIS CONSIDERATION AND
I HOPE THE TURNOUT
AT YOUR OTHER PUBLIC MEETINGS WAS MUCH BETTER
THAN THE ONE HERE
IN BENDI
SINCERELY,
MI
PETESONDSTRICT DIRECTOR,
OREGON STATE SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION.
60958 TARGEE DRIVE,
BEND, OREGON
97702-9024
DISTRICT #4
7
. R
LNORDICJ
E .G
.R
O .iN
,
OREGOW:^NORDIG
1603 Ardendale Lane
Eugene, OR 97405
May 13, 1994
Ammo
.
... ,. .
Ys ....
.A
.c
T.9t ..-
Central Oregon Chapter
Oregon Nordic Club
P. . Box 744
Bend, Oregon 97709
EC EiVE
To David K. Morris, Superintendent,
PO Box 7,
Crater
Lake National Park,
Dear Mr. Morris:
l
I
TER LAKE NAT'L PARK
We would like to comment upon the proposed Winter Use Plans
now under consideration. Please continue with your present
method of operating the park.
IO
We visit the Park in winter for sightseeing and cross
country skiing quite frequently and see no reason for
changing anything. The park is such a pleasant, natural,
beautiful and quiet retreat how can you improve upon it?
You can't. The crater Lake National Park is something
special. Let's not spoil it.
it
We appreciate the conciencious guardianship which you and
all National Park Employees have provided.
William and Margaret Prentice
At~
hotZ
A.
8
k-
- -----
Pill"'
Page two
it
April 12,
1994
|
E
David X Morris
l
Po Box 7l
crater Lake, Oregon 97604
RE: crater Lake Winter Use Plan
has been documented that users
accept noise from other
recreational activities and encounters
with other uses when they
have
been
to expect
the impacteducated
of another
use if them,
it is Signing
clear and
thatinformation
the area is lessens
not a
single use, exclusive use area.
Cooperative multiple use can and IL
does work.
'
Tn
A
Dear Mr. Morris,
Thank you so much for coming to Bend
use in crater Lake National Park thisfor a public meeting on winter
week. I'm sorry there wasn't
a better turn out but delighted we could
have the opportunity, as
snowmobilers, to chat with you and
your folks.
The membership of the Oregon State Snowmobile
Association and Blue
Ribbon coalition have been interested
in expanding snowmobile
access and use within the park for
many years.
We welcome the
opportunity to provide input into a
new winter use plan.
There were two agenda items that
surfaced
chatted. One was the story about snowmobiles last Monday while we
and pollution. I was
able to track down the history on that
quote, which is being used
so freely, about the 1,000 autos vs
A writer from
the Bozeman Chronicle was addressing1 snowmobile.
the exhaust emissions that
accumulated at the Yellowstone Park
entrance, 1,500 sleds daily
that need to stop under a covered area
for their permits. He called
Charles Emmitt (an employee of the California
Air Resources Board
in Los Angeles) and also Roy Muth,
(Exec. Director International
Snowmobile Industry Council) the author
the above mentioned quote.- Mr. Emmitt credited Mr. Emmitt with
knowledge of giving out such information has since disclaimed any
and also stated that the
information was incorrect. He is not
in a position to state public
policy, anyway. There are no current
to cause pollutants or create adverse studies that show snowmobiles
impacts, that we can find.
The other issue that I would like to
address is the noise issue.
Snowmobiles produced after 1976 can
emit
at 50 feet while traveling at 15 mph. no more than 73 decibels
iy comparison, normal I
conversation at three feet produces 70
decibels.
I am sending you
citations on snowmobiles and the environment
that I hope will help
in deciding to include snowmobiling
on the Rim road.
As you
stated, the rest of the park is defacto
wilderness, which should
give plenty of room to the skiers for
quiet and solitude.
I
It has been shown that user conflicts
can be minimized
together.
It
should not be assumed that the skiersby working
and the
snowmobilers cannot help one another
winter use plan expanding use. There and both benefit from a new
have been many opportunities
for our two groups to cooperate locally,
with very few problems.
We, as snowmobilers and nordic skiers,
have
advisory
meetings with BL1( and the Forest Service attended trail
for over 12 years with
many other users of public lands
and the meetings are quite
amicable, for the most part.
It doesn't seem necessary to limit
snowmobile use to such a small
portion of the park.
The vista's
damaging anything, from the resource there can be shared without
to the user experiences.
I have already sent you information
on
snowmdbilq use, it is at least worth economic impact studies of
examining and including in
your decision making process even if
the most important issue. In a state your agency feels it is not
that has worked so fervently
to attract toutism, please know additional
snowmobile opportunities
can be a real economic boost to areas
financially depressed.
If there is any further information that
I can provide, please
free to contact me.
Thank you for your time and attention, feel
my
membership will be following this plan
closely.
,Qncereiy,
Jodm'
Dufourd, Past Presideht
20923 King Hezekiah Way
Bend, Or 97702
(503) 382-8319
cc: Adena Cook, Public Lands Director
Howard Gieger, OSSA President
15
1/6
a_
Table 1. Weighted Sound Levels and Human Response
Sound Source
dBA'
Response
Carrier deck jet operation
140
Limit of amplified speech
130
Painfully loud
Jet takeoff (200 feet)
Auto horn (3 feet)
120
Threshold of feeling and pain
Riveting machine
Jet takeoff (2,000 feet)
110
Shout (6 inches)
New York subway
100
Very annoying
Heavy truck (50 feet)
Pneumatic drill (50 feet)
90
Hearing damage
(8 hour exposure)
Freight train (50 feet)
Garbage disposal in home
80
Annoying
Freeway traffic (50 feet)
70
Telephone use difficult
Air conditioning unit (20 feet)
Light auto traffic
60
Speech in normal voice (15 feet)
50
In-house movement of people, no TV or radio
40
Soft whisper (15 feet)
30
Recording studio
20
10
0
Quiet
Very quiet
Very faint
Threshold of hearing
*Typical A-weighted sound levels taken. The 'A' scale approximates the frequency response
of the human ear.
Source: U.S. Council on Environmental Quality 1970.
Jm & wk A-.*t
S4
Nte 3
2993
3
January, 1993
*
Smith
Studies of Desert Bighorn Sheep (Ovis Canadensis
Nexicana) in Western Arizona. 1987 Referenced
in: USDI Interior Board of Land Appeals 90-57
1990
.OREGON STATE SNOWMOBILE ASSOCIATION
SNOWMOBILE FACT and REFERENCE GUIDE
User:
WILDLIFE
*
Ward, Lorin A.
User: MC
Telemetered Heart Rate of Three Elk as Affected
by Activity and Human Disturbance. US Forest
Service, Fort Collins, Colorado, 1980
* Eckstein, Ronald G.
Rongstad, Orrin J.
Bolinger, John G.
O'brien, Thomas F.
Snowmobile Effects on Movements of White-tailed
Deer: A Case Study. Environmental Conservation
Vol. 6s 45-51, 1979
University of Wisconsin
On File: Yes
Abstract: Deer were more likely to move away from people hiking or skiing
than from people riding snowmobiles. Deer remained close to
noisy heavy equipment and men working with power saws, but
moved away when approached silently. Deer used the snowmobile
trail when convenient, but did not seem to prefer it over their
own trails. There were no significant differences in home-range
size and habitat use of the deer in areas with and without
snoysobiling. However, recommended that trails be routed away
from concentrated deer areas.
I Barrett,
Users
4WD
Abstract:
On Filet Yes
*
Strait,
Richard A.
On file: Yes
Abstract: Elk react most strongly to sonic booms, gunshots, people on
foot, and stopped occupied vehicles. Reactions are greater in
open areas with little hiding cover. Elk are very adaptable. An
audible car horn or a stopped vehicle caused more reaction than
moving vehicle traffic, either trailbike or automobile. Distant
noises from human and natural sources produced very few heart
rate reactions. 1975/76 study
User: SM
4WD
Robert R.
On File:
Some Effects of Vehicles on Wintering Deer
Within the Eldorado National Forest. US Forest
Service, 1976
Yes
In 111 (38%) of 292 encounters, the movinG
(4WD pickup) had no
discernable effect on the encountered deer (i.e, the deer
remained standing, feeding, or bedded). A moving vehicle often
has no detectable effect on a deer. Encounters are more likely
in early murning and late aftoeiLiuii hl.C
oi8iuy treific
during these hours would significantly reduce disturbance.
(Appeal record)
Abstract: Common sense judgements about sheep behavior may be quite
wrong, and that sheep may, contrary to such expectations, be
attracted by human activity. Pedestrian traffic may be the most
offensive type of human intrusion into sheep territory. Passing
cars or highway noise rarely disturbed animals.
User: SM
Winter Use Plan Environmental Assessment for
Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks.
National Park Service, 1990
On File: Yes
Abstract: Winter use will increase to 131,200 (98,400 snowmobile) visits
by 1994-95, however, no substantial adverse effects on wildlife
vould-he expected under the plan. Situations stressful to
wildlife would still occur, however, the expected kinds of
disturbances have not been found to result in long term
displacement from habitat or other problems that would
potentially affect wildlife populations.
The least potential for impact would occur under alternative A
where opportunities for people to approach wintering mammals
and waterfowl on foot would be greatly reduced. Some elk leave
the park and are hunted. The hunted animals tend to run great
distances when persons on foot approach them in open areas.
It appears that factors such as weather, range conditions,
disease, and outside hunting pressure are far more likely to
determine population numbers than winter recreation travel.
Because their movements are more predictable and confined to
one corridor, skiers restricted to trails disturb animals less
than pebple approaching animals at random.
Persons on foot (hikers, skiers, snowshoers) seem to have a
greater effect on animals than enowmobilers do, causing them to
run sooner and farther than they run from snowmobiles.
There is no known documented evidence of reduction of large
ungulate populations, mortality, or permanent abandonment of
habitat as a result of recreation use by snovmobilers or
skiers.
Bald eagle nests near roads show little evidence of disturbance
by people.
5
* Hubbe,
M.
Snowmobile Tracks and Animal Mobility.
Colby College, 1973
Users SM
On File: No
Abstract: The impact of snowmobile tracks on animal mobility was studied
in Maine in January, 1973. Due to compaction of the snow,
snowmobile tracks improved animal mobility.
* Jones & Stokes
Associates
User: OHV
Rock Creek Off-Road Vehicle/Deer Study. 1991
Prepared for California Dept, of Fish and Game,
and US Forest Service, Eldorado National Forest,
Sacremento, California.
On File: Yes
Abstract: A scientific study of winter recreation use of the area,
characteristics of deer population, habitat use and selection
of deer, response of deer to OHVs and other forms of recreation
(hiker, horse, mountain bike) and significance of OHV use on
deer. Determined that low to moderate OHV use should have no
significant effects on deer.
* Lavigne,
G. R.
Users SM
Winter Response of Deer to Snowmobiles and
Selected Natural Factors; University of Maine,
1976
On File, No
Abstract: Animal use of snowmobile trail
was significantly correlated
with deer density and vipter severity. Most movements on
snowmobile trails were for short distances. Disturbance of deer
by snowmobiles did not cause them to abandon preferred bedding
and feeding sites. Snowmobile trails
enhanced deer mobility and
probably reduced their-energy expenditure.
Mathisen,
Users 7
E.
Effects of Human Disturbance on Nesting Bald
Eagles. 1976. Journal of Wildlife Management
32(i):1-6.
On File: No
Abstract: Known nests of bald eagles were divided into three groups
reflecting degrees of isolation. The nests were occupied 182
times from 1963-66. The rate of occupancy was essentially the
same for each group. None of the differences are statistically
significant, indicating that human activity is not an important
source of disturbance and has no measurable effect on nesting
success or nest occupancy.
Crater Lake National Park, contd.
1
~~~~~~b1
RATER LAKE NAT'I PARK
P.O. Box 7568
Klamath Falls, OR.
97602
Hay 12,
Crater lake is the last of the peaceful, pristine areas left to ski in
this area.
Please, please don't allow these machines into the other
areas of the park. Once in, these people will keep encroaching until
no area of the park will be safe.
1994
Mr. David Norris
Superintendent
Crater Lake National park
P.O. Box 7
Since rel
(503)
Dear Mr.
Mor '-
In yesterday's Herald & News (May 11, 1994) we noted that the snowmobile
group is still
pushing for more trails at Crater Lake National Park.
We urge you NOT to let these people get into the park any more than they
already have.
As cross-country skiers, we have had many first-hand experiences with
these people, and most of them have not been pleasant.
A few years ago we led a youth group from our church up to the lookout
at Chase Mountain.
We heard snowmobiles in the area, so we all formed a
single file and skied off the road onto the side. As we rounded a corner,
there was a snowmobile, coming towards us at a great rate of speed.
He attempted to break, but skidded sideways, running over the tips of my
skies as he veered off. Luckily the snow was deep and he did not break
them (or me) - and he never stopped, but continued on down the hill.
After skiing to the lookout, we were all on the way back to the cars, when
we approached this very same snowmobiler with his machine in a ditch.
We helped him right-up the machine, and he took off without so much as a
"thank you".
Sure enough, there he was again, in a ditch, a mile down the
road again. This time, we just skied past.
Every February our Volksoport Club puts on a Volksaki at Diamond Lake.
Each year the snowmobilers have been getting more obnoxious.
This year
was a particularly bad year.
They deliberately wrecked our groomed trail
the morning of the ski, and during the day they would periodically drive
onto our ski trail. At one point they came up behind a young couple with
their two children and nearly ran them over. When one of our members was
skiing along-side their trail (where both trails converge) they deliberately
came near her and sprayed her with snow as they went past.
My husband and
I decided to ski around the lake and found their tracks all over the trails
only designated for skiers.
The night in our cabin was a nightmare.
The snowmobilers had the quarters
below us in the same cabin.
We knew we were in for a bad night when we saw
all the beer-bottles in the snow in front of their door.
They fought all
night, slamming doors and yelling, and then getting out and revving up their
engines at 2 am and taking off with no regard for any of the other occupants
of the cabins.
The parking lot was filled with their cars, trailers, and
machines.
We had to park quite a ways away from our cabins because of the
congestion.
Page -2-
I1
Bill Richardson
882-0552
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April 9,
1994
United States Department of the Interior
National Park Service
83 S King St. Suite 212
Seattle, Wa 98104
Dear Sirs,
As past president
of a national recreational
organization
representing 600,000 people and the Legal Action representative of
the Oregon State Snowmobile Association,
I appreciate the
opportunity to address the draft plan for Crater Lake National
Park.
Snowmobilers have tried unsuccessfully to include the entire rim
road in the snowmobile trail system.
This opportunity to again
address this issue is very important to the 18,000 snowmobilers in
OssA.
The economic impact of snowoobiling is international in its Scope.
Vermont
has
a study
in
1988 showing
a benefit of
$56 million
annually, Colorado has had such an boost from snowmobiling that the
govenor has declared the entire month of February as Snowmobile
month and Alberta Canada realized $300 million annually to their
budgets in 1992.
The numerous
studies
available
wildlife from snowmtobiling is
showing no aoverse
impact to
also well documented.
Please give this issue due consideration, our membership will be
monitoring this closely. I would like to be on your mailing list.
Sincdrely,
Joi)fourd
\\
20Rn
Hzek ahwa
Bend, Oregon 97702
(503)382-8319
cc: Howard Geiger, OSSA President
Clark Collins, Executive Director
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Management objective 3 (p. 4-1) sets forth the policy ofproviding "...high-uality
interpretive and educational programs relevant to the winter environment. 1 It would hr
helpful to expand the report to inchide an interpretive plan or at least specific objectives.
E
PACWIc NORTHWESr REGIONAL OFnC
C
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I appreciate the opportunity to review the report.
1 fiIAlJ 4NE
Sincerely,
HArL PARK;
Mr. Dave Morris
Superintendent
Crater Lake Natiunal Park
PO Box 7
CraterLake, OR 97604
Dale A. Crane
Northwest Regional Director
Dear Dave,
Use Plan. The Park is to be
. Thank you for sending the Crater Lake Draft mrnter
commeaded for preparation of the plan. Other parks in the Northwest Region should
undertake similar planning before winter use activities over burden staff and resources.
The plan 1 welt prepared succinct, to the point with a mininaum irrelevancies and
readable. NPCA is in agreement with the proposed plan and shares the belief it will
provide recreational opportunities for winter use visitors in the near future.
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Two areas ofconcern for future review remain. While the plan reflects alow
pnrecced gsrowth rato for winter use activities ofonly 130/.annually, the potential for a
sudden spurt of rapid growth, as has happened in other Parks, exists. The proposed 40
unit year-round hotel at Mazana Village is approved and while construction is deferred,
the hotel, when built, will have signficant impact on winter use.
Increased uso would rapidly overburden the facilitiea, the Park's resources and
would heighten the probability ofconflict between user grotps. For thi reason we
recommend the plan Ep2cg that a rttevaltuiony,llb conducted before the hotel is built
.
and at tnost nolate than 1999.'
I
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36
While gencrally opposed to snowmobile use in a National Park, I notc thc depth of
sow is ruch that no damagc has been caused by current snowmobile use. Iam ple d to
see tnowmobi ill be limited to use on the existing route of the north access road and
that no cxpanded use will be permitted.
The report states in the section on endangered species (p.2-5) that: "Wumerous
fedcral candidate species and state-isted species hdfabit the are&" No list ofthose species
is provided. Thoreportwould be grcaenhanced by addtion of that infonrmation.
Pacific Northwest Regional Office
617 S. 223rd St.. Des Moincs. WA 98198
Tcl: (206) 824-8808 *Fax: (206) 824-8837
C
32
National Office
1776 Mass. Avc.. N.W.. Washington, D.C 20036
Tel: (202) 223-6722 *Fax: (202) 659-0650
rnote0ItFrXCI) PArPes
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CRATER LAKENAILPARK
David K. tMorris, Superintendent
P.O.Box 7, Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake, Oregon 97604
!RERLAKE
NArL PARK
Dear Mr.Yorrist
I am terribly disappointed that your Preferred Winter Use
Plan does not include expanded snowmobile access to the
Crater Lake Rim. As a winter recreationist, I feel unfairly
discriminated against by a special interest group that is
determined to keep a very special PUBLIC resource all to
themselves. As you well know, the only access we snowmobilers
have to Crater Lake is the North Entrance road, which forces
most of us to drive a long way around to get there, hddileg to
traffic congestion and unnecessary fuel use. And as-you'also
know, we have a groomed trail that is part of the :bld East'
entrance road, #2304. If we were allowed to extend, our trail
past the Pinnacles up to Kerr Notch (the Phantom ShiR overlook), it would save many of us a long and often difficult
trip around and would open up two very beautiful areas oT the
park that very few people get to see in the winter. It would
also make it easier for the skiers to access that side of the
Lake and thereby reduce traffic in and out of the main entrance of the park. I would appreciate your every consideration in this matter.
Sincerely,
Dear IIr.horrist
most of us to drive a long way around to get there, adding to
traffic congestion and unnecessary fuel use. And as you also
know, we have a groomed trail that is part of the old East
entrance road. #2304: If we were allowed to extend our trail
past the Pinnacles up to Kerr Notch (the Phantom Ship overlook), it would saye many of us a long and often difficult
trip around and would open up two very beautiful areas of the
Sincerely
1
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MICHAELH. WELLS
SCOTT A NORRIS
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David K. Morris. Superintendent
P.O. Box 7
Crater Lake
OR
97604
--
CRATER LAKE NAT' L DAR
Dear Hr.
Morris,
The multiple use of our natural resources and parks requires full
consideration and equal opportunity to all special interest
/
groups and no one group of individuals should be preferred over
725
another.
I an terribly disappointed that your Preferred Winter Use Plan
does not include expanded snowmobile access to the Crater Lake
Rim.
As a winter recreationist, I feel unfairly discriminated
against by a special interest group that is determined to keep a
very special PUBLIC resource all to themselves.
As you well ,
know, the only access we snowmobilers have to Crater Lake is the
North Entrance road, which forces most of us to drive a long way
around to get there, adding to traffic congestion and unnecessary
fuel use.
And as you also know, we have a groomed trail that is
part of the old East entrance road. 82304.
If we were allowed to
extend our trial past the Pinnacles up to Kerr Notch (the Phantom
Ship overlook), it would save many of us a long and often
difficult trip around and would open up two very beautiful areas
of the park that very few people get to see in the winter.
It
would also make it easier for the skiers to access that side of
the Lake and thereby reduce traffic in and out of the main
entrance of the park.
There actually would appear to be no
rational reasons for not allowing expanded snowmobile access to
the rim area as requested.
There are no wildlife issues during
that time of year and once the snow melts all traces of
snowmobile trails vanish.
Sincerely.
HOWSER & HUNSELL
Professional Corporation
Glenn H. Hunsell
GHHess
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2124 NE 54th Avenue
Portland, OR 97213
May 26, 1994
&2od--i
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P.O. Box 7
RE:
Winter Use Plan
I'
CRNTR
LKE M'LPARI4
Dear Mr. Morris:
....
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Please adopt Alternative #1 for the Crater Lake Winter Use Plan, which would maintain current
management use practices. We visit the park in all seasons and especially enjoy the solitude of
cross-country skiing there in the winter. Based on our winter experience in Yellowstone
National Park, which was severely tarnished by the hundreds of snowmobilers creating much
noise and air pollution, we urge that Crater Lake remain a place for natural beauty in an
untrampled state. Please don't ruin our park.
2
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tl-
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Sincerely,
Tom Gainer
Jacqueline Dingfelder
87
I :/
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Gloria Gardiner
2806'N.E. 63rd Avenue
Portland, Oregon 97213
EC
Glc IodaGardiner, page 2
V
subject to the same vehicle emission and equipment standards as automobiles,
snow mobiles are
noisier and Produce more air Pollution. I have seen snow mobiles belching
a large, gray cloud
of smoke. The peace and quiet of the winter outdoors is shatteredwhnasioblisitn
haf a mile Of a Sider. I have seen many ski mobile
drive
peed when passing skiers. I have seen no snow-covered
more than wide enough for both
uses where ski mobile drivers left intact even one set ofroad
double tracks for skiers to follow.
Therefore, I particularly urge the Park Service to continue to prohibit ski mobiles
from the Rim
Drive.
May 25, 1994
David Morris
Superintendent
P.O. Box 7
Thank you for considering this information.
Re: Winter Use Plan
Vety truly yours,
Dear Mr. Morris:
I hope that this letter is not too late for citizen input in the process. I just found
out about the
existence and status of the Winter Use Plan for the park.
Gloria Gardiner
I belong to the Portland Chapter of the Oregon Nordic Club, and I'm a board member and the
newsletter editor. I write as an individual, however, not on behalf of all the members
of the
Club. I sunpon Alterrative NI, which I understand maintains the status quo for
snow mobilel t
and cross country ski facilities in the park.
Iu
I have driven, bicycled, and skied the Rim Drive, hiked down to the surface of the
lake, hiked
to the top of Mt. Scott, and taken dozens of photographs at Crater Lake.
Words seem
inadequate to describe its breath-taking, pristine beauty and peacefulness. It is
unreal: the wide,
deep blue sky, the clear lake reflecting that blue sky, the enormous, steep rock walls
left from
the cataclysmic volcanic eruption, the gnarled pines with silver trunks, the views
of nearby
Southern Cascade peaks. It is another world, one relatively unspoiled by human development.
Human activity should have as little impact as possible on the air, water, wild
vegetation of this national treasure. I know that a national park is designatedlife, geology, and
for recreational
use, but I understand that the National Park Service has discretion about which recreational
uses
to permit, may control the location, scope, and impact of those activities on the
park, and has
a duty to preserve the park's natural features. Activities that create or encourage
air, water, or
noise pollution, that have a significant risk of damaging natural features or living things,
or that
lead to overuse should be limited. A certain level of environmental damage, noise, and
of use is already permitted by current regulations. I urge the Park Service to not expand density
current
uses, especially by motorized vehicles.
In my experience, on the trails and roads at Mt. Hood, Mt. St. Helens, and Mt. Bachelor
that
ski mobiles share with cross country skiers, there is a negative impact on skiers in
terms
personal safety, engine noise, exhaust fumes, and obliterated ski tracks. Because they of
are not
3
-
p ECE IVE
CRTE LAKE NA
] AR
Thursday. May 26, 1994
Thursday. May 26. 1994
Mr. Dave Morris
Superintendent
PO Box 7
Mr. Dave Morris
Superintendent
PO Box 7
Dear Mr. Morris,
Dear Mr. Morris,
I have been told that a decision has not yet been reached on the Crater Lake
Wilderness User Plan/Study. I would like to let you know that I favor supporting
Alternative 1, no change, of that plan. I feel that additional access for snowmobile
users is not necessary and may jeopardize the winter serenity of the Park.
I have been told that a decision has not yet been reached on the Crater Lake
Wilderness User Plan/Study. I would like to let you know that I favor supporting
Alternative 1, no change, of that plan. I feel that additional access for snowmobile
users is not necessary and may jeopardize the winter serenity of the Park.
CER
RA AK H~l.PARK
qo
Sincerely,
Sincerely.
Gu A. Bon7
Colleen E. Gambl
q
MRK S.UNDAU, M.D
Phykle. nnd Surteon
May 26, 1994
Diploa-fe of the
AMERICA N BOARD OF PEDIATRICS
Office Phone
245-1234
CRATER
I.K
ALPARK
Mr. David Morris, Superintendent
PO Box 7
R.R
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MAY
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CRATER LAKE NATL P N a48
MIfY 72 6 / 17-qs'
Re:
AA
64,
Winter Use Plan
L,,
Dear Mr. Morris:
As a frequent winter user of Crater Lake National Park, I am well aware of how magnificent
and unique this park is. As a cross country skier, I am also aware of the difficulties of
mixed use by skiers and snow machines. I would implore you to keep these two user groups
separate.
I favor alternative 1, with one exception.
I would like to see at least one or two
huts developed so that skiers could circumnavigate the rim.
q2.
Sincerely,
t 'qLarry
Miller
3104 NE 46th Ave
Portland OR 97213
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11120 Hwy 66
Klamath Falls, OR 97601
May 26, 1994
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NAT'1
,tRAIER
LAKE
Crater Lake Naitonal Park
PO Box 7
Dear Mr. Morris,
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I strongly support Alternative I, the No Action Alternative as the
Preferred Winter Use Plan.
I have skied at Crater Lake nearly every winter of the 25 years I have
been in Oregon. I have enjoyed perhaps a hundred days of skiing out from
the lodge and the headquarters area.
I have served as President of the Alle Mage Skiers, the Klamath Falls
area ski dub. I can attest to the great satisf action our members have
always taken from exIsting conditions at Crater Lake.
Ed Beverly and I took the initiative about 15 years ago to re-establish
the Crater Lake Ski Races of the 1920Ys and 1930's. They have continued
to the present and I am very proud of them. The way we Initially ran that
race, we would have a few people ski ina day before the race in order to
have people available to pack the course and to serve as turn-around
checkers. I talked a lot of people into camping with me over the years, but
Jim Pinniger was the only one who ever went intwice.
I have skied around the lake many times, in one day, two day and three
day trips. Those trips are among the most memorable experiences of my
life. I would hate to see such trips altered in anyway, which iswhy I
firmly support the No Action Alternative.
The presence of snowmobiles would completely alter and degrade all
these experiences I have enjoyed at Crater Lake. Cross country skiing and
snowmobiling are well known to be incompatible activities.
Please preserve the unique winter environment which exists at Crater
Lake National Park.
Sherman D.Anderson
Lower Columbia Canoe Club
1913 N.E. 66th Street
Vancouver, Washington
98665-0369
/
:
May 24, 1994
Mr. David Morris
Superintendent Crater Lake National Park
PO Box 7
DearMr. Morris,
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I am writing on bhhalfofthe Lower ColunmbaCanoe Clubto urge you to adaptAltenuative #I for
managing winter useon Crater Lake rim. We prefer to keep the rim open only to non-motorized usein
the winter. We feel there is adequate
accessfor all visitors to the rim visitor center by car and by
snowmobile to their turn around point. You should not permit them to continue around the rim nor
should more motorized trails be opencd anywherc ese
in the park. Snowmobil traffic on the rim would
destroy the wilderness experience there during the only seasonthat it still exists. I feel It would eventually
lead to the type of pollution the national park at Yellowstone experiences with heavy and smoky traric
entering from Diamond Lake.
I have skid on the lake rim for the pastfive winters All of my ski tours have beenlimited to day usage
but I return several days in a row. I am drawn back by the beauty ofa place that I feel ismatchd
nowhere elsein our Northwest wvinter.Loud, smelly and sometime dangerous snow machines would
destroy much of'what I come to experience. I experienced them on the Century Drive route near Mount
Bachelor and I will not return there.
IJ6
Wc oppose Aternative 22 becauseit locks out the few, low Impact users who ski the entire rim.
Alternative I 3 is not consistent with keeping the scenery natural in the winter and may also lead to heavy
rim usage.Alternative #4 is out of the question.
Ii
The Lower Columbia CanoeClub consists of about 300 individuals and family members in Oregon and
Southwest Washington. We instruct and promote safe, muscle powered boat usage. We also seekto
conserve the natural resourceand beauty of our Northwest rivers and lakes and their watershedsin as
natural a condition a2 possible.
LP K
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Yours truly,
u h
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6Zade
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Rusell A. Pascoe
LCCC Secretary and Whitewater Cruise Chair
cc: lack Whitney. Oregon Nordic Club President
JetfDouglas, LCCC Conservation Chair
9
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It has come to our attention that the park is considering
increasing the snow mobile trails in and about Crater Lake. One of
we
the finest features of Crater Lake is it's pristine nature.
would hate to see this altered by the increase of snow mobile
traffic.
As avid cross country skiers, we
Please reconsider this .
certainly advocate keeping the park as it is.
Sincerely,
9L
Tom and Raejean Woxell
H
qq
645 Sweet Gum Ln
Eugene, Ore 97401
May23, 1994
David M. Taylor
11700 SW Butner Rd., #128
Portland, OR 97225
(503) 626-3223
David Morris
Superintendent of Crater Lake National Park
PO Box 7
Crater Lake, Ore 97604
May 26,
Dear Mr. Morris,
As a cross-country skier, I have many times enjoyed the silence and the solitude
offered by skiing the rim of Crater Lake. I understand that the Winter Use Plan is under
review. Please, please, please, leave It as it is. The rim is pristine. Do not groom trails
or allow snowmobiles on the rim, nor anywhere else in the park.
100
1994
David Morris
Superintendent of
PO Box 7
1
_
LA
RENAT'L PARK
-
RE: Alternative 1
Thank you,
Dear Hr. Morris:
Marcia Karnesky
I am writing in support of alternative 1.
I have visited
Crater Lake during the winter and the tranquility and pristine
beauty would be destroyed by allowing snowmobile use along the rim.
The very purpose of my trips have been to escape the pervasive
noise and pollution of the city. Snowmobiles bring these problems
with them.
Snowmobilers also tend to bring drinking (alcohol) and
litter.
There
are
already
sufficient
alternatives
for
snowmobilers.
Leave the rim as is.
Si coerly,
<-A
MavdTaylor
H.
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May 24 1994
Ser
n n LakeN ati l Park
18239 NE 182nd Avenue
Brush Prairie, WA 98606
May 24, 1994
Superintendent, Crater Lake National Park
Mr. David Morris
I am writing on behalf of the Portland Chapter of the Oregon Nordic Club.
P.O. Box 7
Superintendent
~ii
Dear Mr. Morris:
Our chapter has organized nordic skiing trips to Crater Lake in the
Thank you for
National Park".
winter for many years, and we have also bicycled around Rim Drive from
time to time on summer trips.
winter backcountry camping trips at Crater Lake; we always spend the
night indoors on our winter trips.
we have enjoyed our time inside the Park,
both in
summer when motorized
vehicles share the roads with us, and in winter when'we can ski in
peaceful quiet.
.1
All our recent trips to Crater Lake have been
"Winter Use Plan - Crater Lake
and wish to commit on it.
with their experiences at the Park.
Our chapter also supports the availablity of backcountry camping
or backpacking in the winter at Crater Lake,
although the chapter has
After reading all the proposed alternatives, I prefer Alternative
1.
The last two years,
I have lead a group to Crater Lake to
ski.
The total number of people on those two trips was around
ninety.
The comments
from people making this trip was that
except for the weather some years,
the trip was the skiing
highlight of
the year.
A summation of their comments would be
"The lake was beautiful,
the terrain was perfect for crosscountry skiing,
and the solitude of the rim made this a special
wilderness experience."
I encourage you to adopt Alternative 1.
1072
Sincerely,
not organized any such trips to Crater Lake.
Therefore we support Alternative 1 from the Fainter Use Plan for
Js k
of April 1994.
Vpank you,
Philip ahit.
Nordic Issues Committee
Portland Chapter, Oregon Nordic Club
(home)
6415 S W. 45th Ave.
Portland, OR, 97221
505. (tZ7-814
I103
One of my goals is to ski around the rim.
Alternative 2 would
prevent this.
As I understand the plan, Alternative 3 and 4
would develop
cross-country skiing with groomed trails and the
possible of a hut-to-hut system.
There are
places where this I Q
would be appropriate, but not at Crater Lake.
To me, Crater Lake
is a wilderness experience.
well attended and our members have been generally very happy
Crater Lake'
sending me the
I read through it
So far we have not organized any
is
D.
Whitney
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Ruth Simon
Roger Galka
476 E 32nd.
Eugene, Or. 97405
503-484-1848
May 23,
co
Dear Crater Lake Park Supervisor;
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We are writing to comment on the four options for
winter activities concerning snowmobiling and X country
skiing in and around the rim at Crater Lake. Option one is
the only option we find palatable. We have skied the rim
log
numerous times over the past 14 years, enjoying the
separation of snowmobiles and skiers that the park has
maintained. Also the Idea of groomed trails suggested In the
other options Is distasteful. The beauty of the park in
winter is exemplified by nature setting it's own course and
by the lack of motorized intrusion. Track setting would
encourage overusage of the rim area by those more out for
exercise rather than the outdoor experience. There are
already a number of areas where people can ski on groomed
,0
trails, why ruin a park which exemplifies the natural
experience?
The idea of a winter campground expressed in one of
the other options is also a bad ideal This coupled with morel flO
snowmobile access Vill increase air, noise and ground water
pollution. With Diamond Lake, Newberry Crater and other
heavily used snowmobile access areas close by, we question
the reason for expansion of Crater Lakes access to these
machines. X country skiing is far less intrusive, and
ecologically benign to an area whose environment and wildlife
are already under stress.
Of the four options available, number one, leaving
well enough alone is the only feasible option. How about an
option with less snowmobile intrusion in the future!
With Regards,
Ruth Simon
Rogeft Galka
-.\
3676 Wilshire Lane
Eugene, OR 97405
P.O. Box 7
AAY25AYl
Pl
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CRATER IKE IATL PARK
ECE1 V ED
_____
Dear Mr. Morris,
CRATER LAKE NArL PARK
I havejust recently learned about a proposal to make Crater Lake more
accessible to
anow mobile tficand am concerned about that possibility.
Aa a long time user of
Crater Lake, I have enjoyed years of cross country skiing along the
rim in the winter and
bicycling around the rim in the summer. Crater Lake is truly a state treasure
that needs to
be preserved for non-invasive types of recreation. TIe impact that one
makes in terms of pollution, both in exhaust and noise, ia considerable. anow mobile
On the other
hand, recreational use with skis or a bicycle makes little impact on the environmental
quality of the area.
Because Crater Lake is such a pristine treasure that needs to be preserved
generations, the rule makers should not capitulate to the requests of snow for all ensuing
mobile users to
broaden their territory. The cost of their invasion is too great in terms
of
for
other, quieter users. Please select Alternative SI and keep Crater Lake as usability
the spiritual
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place that it is.
A6
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Anne Jo
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Dear Sir:
-
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P. 0. Box 7, Crater Lake National Park
After attending your most recent public meeting on May 10th
I came away
with the feeling that some questions weren't answered to fulfill
thy
curious mind.
It would be most interesting to know how many views were
for additional snowmobile usage trails and how many in
objection to
such trails.
Not all snowmobile visitors to the park originate from Diamond Lake area.
Some go from Annie Creek Snow Park to Jct. 138 and on to lake, then
to
Diamond Lake to get fuel for machines. If other
were available we
wouldn't have need to go to Diamond Lake who has access
the worst maintained
trail system between 138 and the resort of any trails in this area.
I would venture few persons who own their own snowmobiles
on Diamond
Lake guided tours, therefore you have no way of garnering go
accurate information of who may be using the No.-Entrance trail.
Cross country skiers also share this trail, therefore why are they
insistent upon keeping 9/10 of the park for their usage. I would beso
most
interested in knowing how many actually do go around the lake
on skis.
These people experience the quiet and solitude of complete
area, whereas
snowmobiles
have access to only one small area,
believe me they do
shut off their machines and enjoy the quiet and and
solitude of lake.
Properly maintained snowmobiles do not leak oil and gas as do the
vehicles visiting the park in summer and those driven by the OTHER many
winter
visitors to the park. Air quality from additional cars would not be
adversly affected as snowmobiles are relegated to parking outside of
the
park area in snow parks. In nearly all machines manufactured today they
are closely regulated as to sound emission and the sound rating in
73178
decibels, (at fifty feet does not exceed 73dB(A), not 78dB(A) at wide
openj(
throttle. This is the rating for our machines that are used within
north entrance, one machine has a 583cc and one 669cc, so as you can the
see
these are not 'little' machines.
Impact of snowmobiles on vegetation would be neglibile as we are not
allowed off the trails, however it has been proven that ten snowmobiles
with riders on them stacked one top of the other would not have as
negative affect as ONE person on skis or afoot, this is due to
per
square inch. (ref. Snowmobile Safety, OR. Dept. of Trans. pressure
1987 editon.)
We would still advocate opening up the Pinnacles Road for usage by
the
snowmobilers.
Grooming could be left up to the parks
and
could be performed authorized grooming personnel from discretion
OSSA.
WE would prefer to have the Alternative of leaving the park
as it is as
.
far as the proposed moving of the Mazama Village.
This is again a blatantjm '
waste
of the tax payers funds.
Respectfully sub
ay
Irene L.
3005 Madison
,
Kelley
Klamath Falls, Oregon
97603-7031
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... because use levels would not Increase and areas of activity would not change
significantly' (emphasis added) during the period covered by the winter use plan.
Similarly, in the section on Threatened and Endangered Species (page 6-6), the EA
states that'. . . Under the preferred alternative, active winter use in Crater Lake National
Park will continue, for the most part, as it has In past years. No expanded winter
recreation is proposed under the winter use plan. . . (emphasis added). Unfortunately,
these statements are directly contradicted by the underlying assumption of a 1%-3%
annual Increase In winter use. If the level of winter use grows at the rate of 3% per year,
or a cumulative total of 34% over the next decade, there may be undisclosed adverse
Impacts on wildlife.
THE WILDERNESS SOCIETY
PACIFIC NORTHWEST REGION
May 23, 1994
Further, with regard to wildlife, the EA states that*... Crater Lake National Park Is not
heavily used by wildlife during the winter months, because many of the larger animals,
such as deer and elk, migrate to Idwer elevations to escape deep snow conditions.
Other animals hibernate during the winter seasonO Itwould be helpful to the reviewer if
the EA would clarify the list of species occupying habitat In the park during the shoulder
season and winter months, the temporal and geographical characteristics of each
/
species' activity, and how the NPS determined that the present and projected timing and
levels of use will have no adverse effects on park wildlife.
Mr. David K Morris, Superintendent
P.O. Box 7
Dea
Morris:
Thank you for this opportunity to provide comments on the draft Winter Use Plan for
Crater Lake National Park. In general, we concur with your decision to select Alternative
1 as the National Park Service's preferred alternative. In particular, we favor continuation
of the existing limitations on the location of snowmobile use In the park, and the
emphasis placed on preserving the opportunity for a quiet, solitary experience for winter
users in the Park's backcountry areas. This emphasis seems particularly appropriate in
light of the extensive motorized use that occurs In surrounding national forests.
I
-I
We have two interrelated concerns. The first pertains to your assumptions regarding
likely future levels of use, and the second pertains to the superficial analysis of
environmental impacts Included in the Environmental Analysis (EA).
In our experience, the likely rate of Increased future use Is often underestimated by the
National Park Service. In Yellowstone for example, the 1990 winter use planning effort
assumed a decadal increase in winter use of 15 percent. Unfortunately, this percentage
increase was realized In the first two years of the ten-year plan, rendering the entire
planning effort somewhat obsolete even before Implementation could be completed.
Your plan states an assumption that winter use will increase within the range of t1%-3%
per year. We urge you to plan for, and analyze the effects of, a visitation Increase In the
upper end of your range, not the lower end. When you do, a simple calculation will
reveal that a ten-year cumulative Increase of over 34% can be anticipated. Therefore,
while the plan indicates that *.. . the winter use plan will not change the types of
activities permitted in the park or the location of existing activiies,' (See p. Vii) the level IZ•
and intensity of use may change dramatically over the next ten years, perhaps to the
point of exceeding the visitor carrying capacity of certain areas In the park.
Which brings us to our concern about the analysis of environmental consequences.
According to the EA (page 5-5), no impacts on wildlife species are expected to occur,
1424 POURrit AVENUE,SUITE816, SEATT, WA98101-2217
(206) 62446130 * FAX(206) 624-7101
rInd-o, b.a-dd
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This Is especially critical for those species that hibernate. Some species are known to
interrupt hibernation during warmer periods of the deep winter months and are easily
disturbed at this time. Similarly, Spring emergence Is an especially critical time. At
Yellowstone, for example, there Is great concern over the overlap between the early
Spring emergence of hibernating bears, and the peak period of human winter' visitor
use. Any such potential adverse Implications for hibernating species at Crater Lake
should be identified and evaluated.
In summary, while the park Is to be commended for initiating this winter use planning
process, we are disappointed with the depth of analysis reflected In the EA. And, while
we have Illustrated our concerns by pointing out needed Improvements in your analysis
of Impacts on wildlife, we also have concerns about site-specific air quality and noise
I
Impacts associated with projected Increases In snowmobile use, late season backcountry
Impacts on soils and vegetation, and so on.
Finally, your conclusions may well be correct, but without an intellectually rigorous
analysis, and more effective presentation of the methodology and results of that analysis
in the NEPA document, it Is difficult for the reader to have a high level of confidence In i,
your findings. You would be well-served by a more-thorough analytical effort and a more
complete disclosure of the potential environmental Impacts of the proposed action.
Sincerely,
Steven Whitney
Regional Director
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21 May 1994
bring a "color of civilization" to the rim that would wreck the
atmosphere.
I think that a cabin or two, for overnight skiers
set back from the rim in well chosen hidden spots would be a
GREAT idea.
Mr. David Morris
Superintendent
P.O. Box 7
Crater Lake. OR 97604
Plan 4: As I understand it plan 4 involves even more
development than plan 3 so I am agin' it.
I am not as fanatic
an anti-snow-mobile-person as most cross country skiers are.
but I think that snow mobiles would be out of place on the rim.
It would certainly be possible for snowmobilers to carry skis on
a snow mobile and ski on short scenic trips along the rim
without imposing too great a hardship on them while sparing the
winter scene the noise. fumes and rush of their machines.
Dear Sir:
I am writing as part of the public input to future development
plans for Winter access and facilities at Crater Lake National
Park. I understand that 4 alternatives are under consideration
and I have heard a brief description of each.
If my factual
information about these plans is incorrect. please take my
comments below as endorsing the plan that comes closest to
what is expressed below.
Thank you very much for considering my comments. Hope you can
come up with a great plan that will make everyone estatic. Lots
of luck.
My background: I moved to Oregon in 1974 and took up some
mountain climbing and skiing which I have done ever since.
I am
a member of the American Alpine Club. the Obsidians of Eugene,
and the Oregon Nordic Club, Eugene Chapter.
I have cross
country skied most winter weekends since 1977. I have visited
Crater Lake three or four times over the years, cross country
skiing along the rim road one time from the South entrance to
climb the Watchman. Even though I have not been an habitue of
the park. I am concerned about its future both as a skier and
a citizen.
Sincerely,
John G. Mowat
Plan l: As I understand it this plan pretty much leaves things
the way they are now. This is the plan I would prefer. "If it's 137t
not broke, don't fix it."
Plan 2: As I understand it 'plan 2 is more restrictive than
present regulations.
I think it is absurd. There is no reason
why snowmobilers shouldn't be able to get from Diamond Lake to
the North Rim.
Forbidding snow camping seems rather
untraditional in a National Park to say the least.
If a day
skier gets caught out over night, they would breaking the law?
This doesn't seem real.
133
Plan 3: As I understand it plan 3 includes development below
the South Rim including a parking structure and RV campground.
some groomed ski trails. and extra snow mobile access to the rim
at one point on the East rim.
I could probably live with it and
might even be in favor of it if it is toned down a bit.
I don't 13LJ
like the idea of a parking structure. Groomed trails are OK if
they are in an area below the rim. Grooming equipment would
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DAVID MORRIS, SUPT.
CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK
PO BOX 7
CRATER LAKE, OR 97604
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DEAR MR. MORRIS:
tion
I DON'T HATE TIME TO COMPOSE A WELL THOUGHT OUT LETTER, BUT THE URGENCT OF
THIS MATTER NECESSITATED GETTING MT VOTE' FORWARDED TO TOU IMMEDIATELT.
THE WINTER USE PLAN FOR CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK HAS COME TO MT ATTENTION
AND I WANT YOU TO KNOW I STRONGLT SUPPORT ALTERNATIVE 1. CRATER LAKE IS
A BEAUTIFUL PLACE:I HAVE ENJOTED VISITING AND SKIING THE TRAILS AROUND THE
LAKE AND WOULD HATE TO SEE THE PRISTINE BEAUTT OF THE AREA ALTERED OR
DESTROTED EVEN IN A SMALL WAT.
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24May1994
CraterLake National Park
Mr. David Morris
Superintendant Crater Lake National Park
PO Box 7
Superintendent David Morris
P.O. Box77
6i/6
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May 23, 1994
Dear Superintendent Morris:
Having just learned that there are several plans in the
works to open up Crater Lake to more winter activities. I
would like to express my opinion towards option A, to keep A17it as it is. Altough I do like the Ideal of Hut-to-Hut lodges
to provide more overnight camping for going around the
whole rim.
I have cross-country skied at Crater Lake twice with the
Eugene Nordic Club in the last three years. I esspecially
don't want it open to snowmobiles, they make to much
noise and are very polluting. I saw a Bald eagle there three
years ago what a sight, I don't want to see them disturbed
by snowmobiles.
Thanks, for the opportunity to express how I fell about
the future of Crater Lake, when it comes to winter activities.
I plan to bike around Crater Lake this summer for the first
time.
It recently came to my attention that park officials were considering a number of
Allen DeBuhr
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it
Dear Mr Morris:
Yours truly,
4
mana
would affect winter time use of Crater Lake. To my knowledge we were never contacted and asked to respond
even though our Chapter members use the park frequently each winter for both day excursions as well as
overnight snowcamps. Had we known we would have mobilized all of the chapters comprising the Oregon
Nordic Club to respond. Hopefully, with short notice we will attempt to get as many members to respond as we
can.
After studying the four options that were given to mel feel thatAlternative#l, which maintains the status quo
would be the best choice. I am adamantly opposed to any plan which would Increase the use of snowmobiles in I.
the park. One of the reasons that Crater Lake appeals to so many Nordic skiers is the quiet and solitude that it
now provides. Snowmobiles are not compatible with those amenitiesl Touring and snowcamping experiences as
currently supported must be maintained.
:
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It is my understanding that another option being considered would be overnight facilities located away from the
rim. Most club members that I talked to could support overnight facilities located further down the mountain.
Most felt that there should not be increased commercialization on the rim itselfI
Thank you for allowing a response to your plans this late in the planning process. I felt that it was necessary for
you to hear from at least one nordic skier.
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David K. morris, Superintendent
Dear Mr.Korrisi
entrance road, #2304. If we were allowed to extend our trail
past the Pinnacles up to Kerr Notch (the Phantom Ship overlook), it would save many of us a long and often difficult
Sincerely,
Sig J. Milkoywski President.
P.S. All of my Staff and Crew snowmobile and enjoy other outdoor sports,winter sports are about the only type we can
do because of our very busy summer work schedules.We are
a third generation buisness here locally and feel a little
bit angry that no one seems to listen to our views of how
things in our local area are being run,we sure would like
to be heard at least once in awhile.
Gribble Well Drilling Inc.
195 Country Lane
Gold Hill,Ore. 97525
Ph.
503-855-1328
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SIERRA CLUB
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Klamath Group
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29. 1994
CRAE lKE NATL PRK
Superintendent
P.O. Box 7
Crater Lake, OR97604
David K. Morris
Superintendent
P.O. Box 7
Dear Sir:
I would like to express my support for the preferred alternative
outlined in the draft Winter Use Plan for Crater Lake National Park. By
maintaining the existing use patterns for the near future, you have
balanced the demands being placed on the Park Service by many different
user groups.
The Klamath Group of the Oregon Chapter of the Sierra Club would like to
express its support for the preferred alternative outlined in the draft
Winter Use Plan for Crater Lake National Park. We believe that you have
struck a good balance by maintaining the existing use patterns for the
near future.
I would like to express my support for limiting snowmobile use to the
North Entrance Road. Snowmobiles detract from the quiet and serenity
which attract many people to Crater Lake during the winter. As a cross
country skier and winter camper I amopposed to any expansion of
snowmobile routes in Crater Lake National Park. Over the last 15years
I have made two multi-day ski trips around the rim and have made seven
more overnight trips into the backcounty of the park. If snowmobiles
were allowed to use the east rim road it would degrade the solitude that
skiers now experience during trips around the rim.
I do not think that winter lodging is needed at Crater Lake Nationaf
Park at this time. However I believe that you are correct in planning j
to evaluate the winter lodging issue again in the future. I hope that
you will strive to keep all future development in the park to a minimum.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on your draft Winter Use Plan.
Please keep meinformed of future plans for Crater Lake National Park.
The Klamath Group is pleased to see that you have not permitted an
increase in snowmobile use in the park. We know that you are under
great pressure to open the East Rim to snowmobile use, so the position
which you have taken is admirable.
We would like to express our support
for limiting snowmobile use to the north entrance road.
l
Local Sierra Club members believe that the needs of other winter use
groups are being adequately maet at this time. People that come to
Crater Lake during the winter for skiing, snowshoeing, site seeing or
winter camping, come because of the quiet and beauty which are offered
by the winter setting at the park.
We do not believe that winter
lodging is necessary at this time, however we believe that you are
correct in planning to revisit the issue of a year round lodging
facility in five years.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on your draft Winter Use Plan.
Please keep us informed of future plans for Crater Lake National Park.
Sincerely
A'd
Sincerely
William M. Wood
William H. Wood
Secretary
To e.piore. .eJoy od preserve the milom' foreslt, waters, wildflfe, and wildereo.....
6 Prfnd a.. 100%
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CRATER LAE
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Lynne Kennedy
3554 N.E. Knott
Portland, Oregon
May 25, 1993
Your invitation on the Crater Lake winter use plan for
comment is greatly appreciated.
97212
Snowmobile travel will not affect water quality in the
park, as they only travel on the roads and these are
Mr. David Morris
snow covered during the winter.
P.D. Box 7
Crater Lake, Oregon
Very little wildlife is ever encountered in the winter
time.
I am writing to support Alternative I in the Crater Lake
Winter Use Plan.
I often meet friends and stay near Crater
Lake to ski in the winter.
We particularly like the rim
trail, and would not want to see the experience degraded in
The pristine nature of the views, the clean air,
any way.
and the relative solitude are a welcome respite from the
hustle and bustle of city life.
Newer models of machines are fuel enjected and have
very efficient carburation.
97604
Dear Mr. Morris:
This cuts the emissions
exceptionally well.
Noise levels-are set:by'federal standards. Decibels are
within this measure,.
I look forward to hearing that wise plans have been made
which preserve natural beauty for both present and future
generations.
Sincerely,
There is sufficient area in Crater Lake to accommodate
all winter park users.
There are other places to sno*mobile; but the majestic
beauty of the lake is a.spectacular winter.experience
that everyone should be privileged to enjoy.
Respectfully
,
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Lynne S. Kennedy
Oregon Resident
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May 25, 1994
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Mr. David Morris
P.O. Box 7
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I was just informed that you have different alternatives to decide upon for the use of
Crater Lake National Park. I am writing to you in support of Alternative One -Please
leave as is.
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Thank you for your thoughtful consideration of this matter.
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I cross country skied at the park 10 years ago and again this last year. I hope I can
return over the next ten years and still find a peaceful and pristine environment.
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Prineville, OR 97754
(503) 447-4839
27 May, 1994
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Mr. Dave Morris, Superintendent
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P.O. Box 7
Dear Mr. Morris:
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It has come to my attention that no decision htas yet been made on the current vilderress
use study plan. As a back country skier, I vould like to go on record as supporting
Alternative Number Ow-no change of that plan
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Unfortunately, rnany of us vho most seek the vilderness experierne tendi not to be
joiners of organizations that can lobby in our behalf. In my opinion it vould be a
mistake to disrupt the solace of the crater rim vith additional acess for snovmobile
users.
Respectfully,
Walter A.Bolton Jr.
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TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:
1,AS PRESIDENT, REPRESENTTHE MEMBERS OFTHE OCHOCO CHAPTER OFCAHE
OREAON
NORDIC CLUB; THERE ARE ABOUT 20 MEMBERS IN THE PRINEVILLE CLUB. ONE OF OUR
MEMBERS, PAT WICK, IS ON THE STATE BOARD OF THE OREGON NORDIC CLUB AND
REPRESENTS THAT PARENT ORGANIZATION AS EASTSIDE VICE PRESIDENT. HE IS IN
AGREEMENT WITH THE POSmON EXPRESSED IN THIS LETrER.
THE OCHOCO CHAPTERO.N.C. IS WHOLEHEARTEDLY IN FAVOR OF ALTERNAT[VE I OF
YOUR REPORT ON THE STUDY YOUR AGENCY HAS DEVELOPED. ESSENTIALLY OUR POSmON
ENVISIONS THE CONTINUED PROVIDING OF ONE ACCESS, ONLY, TO THE RIM OF CRATER LAKE
FOR SNOWMOBILE TRAVEL WE ARE OPPOSED TO ANY EXTENSION OF THEIR PERMITTED USE
AREA. OUR POSmON IS BASED ON THE FOLLOWING CONDmONS&
1. SNOWMOBILE TRAVEL DETRACTS FROM THE USABILITY OF THE AREA FOR CROSS
COUNTRY SKIING.
2. SNOWMOBILES ARE QUIE NOISY AND THEY DETRACr FROM THE QUIETNESS OFPHE
FOREST SCENE.
3. EXHAUST FUMES IN THE VICINITY OFTHE SNOWMOBILE TRAILS ARE REMINISCENT OF
THE HIGHWAY ENVIRONMENT OR WORSE.
THANK YOU FOR CONSIDERING OUR PEITITON.
RESPECTFULLY,
)'IM BUCKLEY
PRESIDENT
OCHOCO CHAPTER, O.N.C.
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May 27, 1994
May 27, 1994
Mr. David Morris
Park Superintendent
P.O. Box 7
Mr. Dave Morris
Superintendent
P 0 Box 7
Dear Mr. Morris:
I am writing to voice my concern regarding opening up of the winter
road to snowmobiles on the Crater Lake Road to Kerr Notch.
Dear Mr. Morris:
I would vote for keeping it as a wilderness experience without mechanized travel (except in emergency situations). If the snowmobilers want
to be on the rim, there could be a parking lot that they could drive to
and park, proceeding from there on skis to the rim.
I have recently been advised that you have not yet reached a
decision on the Crater Lake Wilderness Study Use Plan.
I support Alternative 1, No Change, of that plan.
I feel it
would nor be in the best interest of the general public to
provide additional access in this area to snowmobile users.
Thank you for your consideration of my view in this matter.
Sincerely,
George C. Sommers
205 Lynn Blvd. #58
Prineville, OR 97754
V7(
In a wilderness situation loud noise and air pollution from the motors
is not a reasonable situation, when looking at the designation for that area.
Please reconsider as I am for Alternative #I which keeps the status quo as
it is.
Sincerely
8246 SE Rhone
Portland, OR 97266
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ing to you about the request of the Snowmobilers to have
Fasnowmobiling on the rim of Crater Lake from the North
,a view of the Phantom Ship. As a nature lover who loves
> Crater Lako and who has skied around the lake which is
-fondest memories of x-country skiing, I vote that you
the.existing rules and leave the rim to a peaceful
,experiencei.,..Snowmobiling
is a noisy sport that uses a
iJindr'asisand is ;not;coioducive to a quiet back woods
g0 2tB
nvoives~zspeed~indaadifferent mindeet than a
xperience,that involves slow movement and an
h' Me'au~y¢Wa live in such a fast-paced
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and not
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the snowmobilers get
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future generations
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and to hold
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Brian Emmen
P.O. Box 966
Basalt, CO
[~~~~~~~~~~~~~~CRATER LAKE N~t'I PARK
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.CRATER LAKE
May 27, 1994
. E~~~~~*CEIVE i
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P.O. Box 7
Crater Lake, Oregon
......................
,
Dear Mr. Morris:
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Please accept my comments on the Crater Lake Winter Use Plan.
I am a former two time Alla Mage Ski Club president and have
toured at Crater Lake many times during both the winter and summer.
I have skied around Crater Lake a number of times and hence have first
hand knowledge and experience with the interaction of skiers and snow
mobile users at the lake.
While I
access to the
be expanded.
lake rim will
firmly believe that the users of snow machines need
lake, I also believe that the current access should not
To allow snow machines to have additional area at the
destroy the peaceful nature of the lake area.
Therefore I support fully Alternate 1 of no change in the status
and areas of use the snow machines currently enjoy.
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Brian Emmen
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PAT5uCIA REYNOLDS * 2509
NE FLANDERS, NO. 308 * PORTLAND, OR 97232 * 503.239-7483
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Mr. David Morris
Superintendent
P.O. Box 7
it
. tE R LA KE NATL PARK
I understand that the proposed management plan for Crater Lake
National Park would give snowmobiles acces to the Rim Drive
during the winter. I urge you to select another alternative as
the preferred alternative.
Dear Mr. Morris:
Patricia Reynolds
Member, Nordic Ski Club
V-ta
3325 N.E. Holladay St.
Portland, OR 97232
May 27, 1994
May 25, 1994
Sincerely,
£
~~~~~~~~.
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i,-
P.O. Box 7
I support Alternative 1 of the Winter Use Plan. I have enjoyed Crater Lake as a
cross country skiier for several winters now and look forward to going there
next year. The quiet and serenity as well as the panoramic views make this area
one of most significant destinations in Oregon. I think letting snowmobilers into
the vicinity would be an unwelcome intrusion.
EC
8Z
For the past two winters I have cross-county skied the rim during
the winter, two years ago with the City of Portland Parks and
Recreation Department, and last year with the Oregon Nordic Club.
Because I had taken telemark skiing lessons from the Mazamas
during January of this year, the March trip to the Park was by
far the most enjoyable of the two trips. With the telemark skills
I was able to ski places where I had not been able to go the
previous year with the City park department, including The
Watchman and the Dalton Creek Trail. Both of these trips would
have been considerably different if I'd had to compete with
snowmobiles for the sights, sounds and smells of the Park.
For me, the experience of skiing the Crater Lake Rim Road is in
the combination of solitude and the presence of the Lake.
To remove the presence of solitude, as admitting snowmobiles
would surely do, would make it similar to the experience I have
had visiting there on my motorcycle-a significant experience, to
be sure, but not one where solitude IN THE PRESENCE OF THE LAKE
leaves me feeling overwhelmed and humble.
I urge you to maintain "the status quo" concerning winter access
for snowmobiles in the Park.
As I understand that this situation
is best represented by "Alternative #1", that is the management
scheme that I support.
Thank you for your consideration
Sincerely,
of this request.
a
Eighty-two copies of the following comment letter were received. Of those, 62 included names
and addresses which are listed below. Seventeen letters had signatures only-, one letter had no
signature. In some instances, more than one person signed individual letters.
Gene Plankenhom.
Phoenix, OR 97535
Lyle and Pat Bergstrom
6767 Tingley Lane Space 40
Klamath Falls, OR 97603
John and Ethel La Fontaine
935 Bellview Ave.
Ashland, OR 97520
Nick Clark
3486 Jacksonville HWY
Medford, OR 97501-2064
Ron Maitrajean
16785 Williams Hwy.
Williams, OR 97544
Morgan E. Miller
329 Sunrise Ave.
Medford, OR 97504
Roger and Gisela Wentling
4050 Beagle Rd.
White City, OR 97503
Donna Milkowski
195 Country Lane
Gold Hill, OR 97525
Don McDonough
2385 Finley Lane
Medford, OR 97501
Robin Shaw
2370 Stillwater Court
Medford, OR 97504
Larry Hickman
2448 N. Keeneway Drive
Medford, OR 97504
Dick Souza
620 Grouest
Jacksonville, OR 97530
Don and Carole Wallace
2405 Starlite Lane
Medford, OR 97501
Patrick Henderson
155 Highland
Medford, OR 98504
Dean Hall
2876 Beall Lane
Central Point, OR 97502-1456
Robert Yanish
1711 Roberts Rd.
Medford, OR 97504
Shara Valentino
539 N. Bameburg
Medford, OR 97504
Jeff Shaw
2370 Stillwater Court
Medford, OR 97504
Jack Allen
539 N. Barneburg Rd.
Medford, OR 97504
Thomas C. Todd
P.O. Box 426
Talent, OR 97540
Don Tipton
2259 Hwy. 234
Eagle Point, OR 97524
Archee and Jeanie Clay
220 Dunlop Lane
Grants Pass, OR 97527
Don and Claudia Moore
622 Carmen Drive
Mt. Shasta, CA 96067
Kevin and Sandra Sullivan
2448 Argonne
Medford, OR 97504
Jim Riley
3421 Greystone
Medford, OR 97504
Harold McCollan
P.O. Box 904
Rogue River, OR 97537
Phil Newton
817 Ski Bowl Dr.
Mt. Shasta, CA 96067-2035
Ted Hoffman
176 Napa Street
Arlen Henderson
4599 Hwy 237
Trail, OR 97541-9710
Ray and Emma Jane Kirkendall
3369 Randall Avenue
Central Point, OR 97502
Richard and Bobbie Rankin
1909 Taylor Rd.
William L Reagan
4260 Coleman Creek Rd.
Medford, OR 97501
Robert L Methvin
1053 Agate Street
Medford, OR 97501
David P. Fletcher
4182 Avenue A.
White City, OR 97503
Dennis Salyers
16 Lincoln Street
Medford, OR 97501
Tim Ward
720 Brookdale
Medford, OR 97504
Norman and Mary Salyer
82 Hidden Valley Lane
Rogue River, OR 97537
R.A. Witham
3711 Livingston Rd.
Rod Biggs
3540 Foothill Rd.
Medford, OR 97504
Fish Lake Resort
P.O. Box 40
Medford, OR 97501
121 Houston Rd.
Vern and Marilyn Santos
708 Butte Avenue
Chuck and Sherry Allen
2895 Erline Way
Dana Sewell
11310 Agate Road
Jim and Ann Brookins
218 Reese Creek Rd.
John Bastion
888 Stewart Rd.
Farmer
400 Palomino Drive
Brenda Salyers
16 Lincoln Street
Medford, OR 97501
Henry Stevens
19 Lincoln Street
Medford, OR 97501
Jan and Dean Weitman
3228 Eucalyptus
Medford, OR 97504
John Phipps
758 Northwest 2nd Street
Lloyd G. Masters
1610 Southwest Rogue River Ave.
Gerald A. Shaf
P.O. Box 718
Medford, OR 97501
Steve and Reba Pickens
2246 Happy Valley Drive
Medford, OR 97501
Lannie Stevens
20 Lincoln Street
Medford, OR 97501
James B. Watson
1511 Moon Terrace
Medford, OR 97504
Barbara Ann Masters
1610 Southwest Rogue River Ave.
Barry Hurd
3910 Foothill Rd.
Medford, OR 97504
Bud and Claudia Plankenhom
325 Hillhause Avenue
Medford, OR 97504
Terry McDonough
Jacksonville Sheet Metal
149 Sterling Creek Rd.
Jacksonville, OR 97530
Theresa Newby
817 Ski Bowl
Edith M. Thorton
3955 South Stage Rd. #12
Medford, OR 97501-9559
Sally Greb
2404 East Antelope Rd.
Eagle Point, OR 97524-9603
Ronald Greb
2404 East Antelope Rd.
Eagle Point, OR 97524-9603
Dale Garner
3395 Green Acre Rd.
Central Point, OR 97582-1413
Robert Smith
2668 Cowwell Ave.
Medford, OR 97501
Donald Prie
130 Elk
Medford, OR 97501
Glenn C. Usrey
2601 Sand Creek Road
Jane Jacobs
343 Scenic Drive
David K. MJorris, Superintendent
CRATER LAKE NATI PARK
Dear Mir.YorrisI
have to Crater Lake is the North. Entrance road, which forces
entrance road, #2304. If we were allowed to extend our trail
past the Pinnacles up to Kerr Notch (the Phintom Ship overlook), it would save many of us a long and often difficult
Lake and thereby reduce traffic in and out of the main entrance of-the park. I would appreciate your every consideration in this matter.
Sincerely,
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May 26, 1994
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Re:
Winter Use Plan
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Dear Mr. Morris:
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As a frequent winter user of Crater Lake National Park, I am well aware of how magnificent
and unique this park is. As a cross country skier, I am also aware of the difficulties of
mixed use by skiers and snow machines. I would implore you to keep these two user groups
separate.
I favor alternative 1, with one exception. I would like to see at least one or two
huts developed so that skiers could circumnavigate the rim.
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Sandra Hodgson
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DCP ALTERNATIVES COMMENT FORM
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We would appreciate it if you would give us your comments about the alternatives on the following
form. If you need more room please attach additional pages. When you are finished please fold In
half tape closed and mall. No postage is necessary. Thank you for your time and comments.
Return by May 31,1994
Additional commentsi
ICRATER LAKE NAT'LPAK
What do you think about the alternative concepts described In the newsletter? Would you change
theminanyway? tfso howi;
The intrusion of snowbilers to cross cRutr
Crater Lake is overstated:
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across a snowmobiler in one winter?
rim several times in the passed ten
a single skier. Tracks on just one
With so much area dedicated to
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I have traveled to the North
years and never encountered
occasion.
skiers they could easily
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avoid motorized machines if they find them so distasteful.
Lower elevation trails in other areas not always useable
,,.,- 1. .
do to insufficient snow cover.
Human waste around rim can be washed into Lake with snow
Alternative
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How often does the same skier come
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melt-off and Spring rains. Summer rim travel and parking can
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result in crankcase oil, antifreeze, gas etc leaking on pavement
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and also be washed into the lake. ( note comment form )
Snowmobiles traveling to the rim via Pinnacles road should
not cause added pollution.Vehicles with catalytic converters do
Please tef uhswhZc atrnte and deeoe area tha: you;i,
t yiourrese '= d
actions
th~oetha
release sulphur dioxide which is more offensive.
Avalanche danger can be handled as at Mt Bachelor.
The Snowdrifters can patron trails much the same as the
Cross country skiers do theirs, groominr as well. Our club now
has n' new Tucker Snow Cat.
Post speeds on North and Pinnacles trail, it works in
Yellowstone.
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A snowmobile is easier than a person alone. Weight is measured
by pounds per square inch.
It takes ten snowmobiles and riders
on top of each other to equal the pressure of one person."
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"Snowmobiles have little effect on the vegetation under the snow.
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Older active snowmobilers want near the same experience
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extended to pthers in the park and their sleds are the only means
of reolizing this.
Thank-you for giving me the chance to express myself. My
sport has given me ( I'm 63 ) the chance of add an important
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qoouetitons
or comments
about theDevelopmenti Concept Plan. TheSupennienideni can be reached
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: What do you think about the alternative concepts described in the newsletter? Would you change
themiInanyway?7 si hPow?
Al'e -. l.i
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ATRER NA'
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DCP A I.TF7TZMAmvwq
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We would appreciate It if you would give us your comments about the altemaiivmsonj
form. If you need more room please attach additional pages. When you are finished
hail, tape closed and mail. No postage is necessary. Thank you for your time and comments.
:Return by May 31,1994
*_____
DCP ALTERNATIVES COMMENT FORM I
r
May 26, 1994
We would appreciate it if you would give us your comments about the alternatives
form. If you need more room please attach additional pages. When you are
co m1
half, tape closed and maiL No postage is necessary. Thank you for your time
Return by May 31,1994'
findsI{htl
~E GE I V E~j
.:.v
What do you think about the alternative concepts described In the newsletter? Would you change'
them in anyway? If so, how?
'.! --IIs
PO Box 7
AR
CRATER LAKE NTL PARK
7:
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Re:
P11
Winter Use Plan
1, with one exception. I would like to see at least one or two
huts developed so that skiers could circumnavigate the rim:
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As a frequent visitor to Crater Lake National Park, I am well aware of how magnificent and
unique this park is. As a cross country skier, I am also aware of the difficulties of mixed
use by skiers and snow machines. I would implore you to keep these two user groups
separate.
I favor alternative
7.ti4.'
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Dear Mr. Morris:
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Sincerely,
W#kIgj*W. *
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Jenn er Sutter
3040
17th Ave
OR 97212
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P.%; How do you feeliabout the range of alternatives thatisdeoed
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Pfaaefee fee o cl'orwnite the Superitneto rtrLk 4t~ioal Park anyimne you hve -ft
'questions or omnmetnts
about the Development Co'nit PThe Sugerintenientt an be reahed at
.(503) 594- 2211!,lfql>;-,..i
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Dale imeolzwrught
1917 Crest St
Klamath Falls, Oreg 97603
1
,JER LAKE NATT PARK
May 31, 199 6
Lois HimIelm
gg1917 Crest St
Kleiath Falls, Oreg
97603
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Mr Howard Morris
Superintandent
1
~~~~~~~~E
C EI V E'
Howard Morris
Dear Sirs:
P.O. Box 7
Again in response to the recent meeting held in Klamath Falls, I
will try to put some input into some of the issues
'' the winter recreation study.
Crater Lake Oreg.
Drar Sir:
I
WISH)
TO 0C ON REORD AS OPFOSING VOVING PARK HLEQUATERS.
it should remain where it
is in
the Mazama area.
There are many
I recommend leaving
headquaters in its present location. I alsosupport alternative number
a eapt "ness to view the lake.
I4
I find the negative objection mostly unfounded
on a way for skiers to completly dominate wintertrecreation in Crater Lake Park
Simcerly,'
CRATER LAKE NAT'L PARK
Firsl in the park headquaters development or reclocation. I'could
not support teh recocation of park headquaters to the South Intrance
because of the heavy negative impact an the deer and elk herds that
winter in the area. The State Game Comuission withwinema and B.L.M. have
now closed roads in this aeea with
3 gates that close the right
after Elk season to protect the elk herd from poaching and protection
during the calving period. Also smallwild life would be impacted, such
as perepegrive fish moving from higher elevation in the winter.
I think
negative impacts in moving'it'to the Sputh Enterance including changing
wildlife habitat to involving a very high cost.
_
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-7
There is also high snowmobile use in this area as it is the main
snowmobile route from Hyatt Lake th Bend. The parking lot at Anne Creek also
also would not handle the additional traffic.
With this in mind I would prefer for any expan ion of park headquaters
to confined to the Mazsma Village Area.
page 1
Under alterative I11I wilitry to answer some comments negative
to this*4'r
alternative in order listed:
Water resourse:
The impact on water resourse would be very minimal when considered
against
the impact of vehicle-use and snow removal equipment opening
the rim route
and automobile use before the snow is gone from the ground.
Wildlife:
In previous studies in years past it
this area when the snow falls.
Rember skiers can ski
on snowmobile trails in Southern Oregon and on roads
closed by snow and in wilderness areas and all of Crater
Lake. I challenge
your report to add up all of thses miles in your next
report and comDare
it to miles we snotimobilers have. In closing I would like
you to consider
opening the pinnacles route so we can view Crater Lake
from a point on
ehdhhaide of the lake
Thank
uight
ro
was deternind wildlife moves out of
Air Quality:
In riding and grooming the lower portion of tbhepinnaoles
road to 235
onlya very few ski tracks have been obsered, thi ri&ma very
skierers. Snowmobiles now use unleaded fuel and many pave low use area for
now fuel injection
which lower the emmissions to a lower level.
.%Soil and vegetation:
Since snowmobiles would be restricted to roadways There would
be no noticeable
impact,;
r'.t
:-.
ThreAtened and Ehdangered Species:
Again these species would not be effected as they move to
lower altitudes to
find food.
Cultural Impact and Recourse:
No impact.
Noise:
All snowmobiles now meet or are lower tthan state and federal
standards. We
meet skiers all the timeon our snowmobile trails which theyuseand
are not bothered
by the snowmobles passing.
Recreation:
Recreational use for all user group would be imnsovedand
increased.
As I review alternative four which I-supportf'1 firif:the.usefof
a snow and
trail grammer -to be one of the main objection. I believe
that
be left up to park personal th make tjis decisions on grooming this could
needed to move at all. I think that the snotnobilesers would to only when
accept that.
As I read I see many miles of snowmobile trails in the national
forest referred t.nd
to and used as a reason for not supporting alternative #
4
in
using
this formula
I might ask with so many miles of highways putside the
park wy do people still
IC?
drive to the rim to see Crater Lake. I also see a very
low mileage for Ski trails
P.a :.:',r
Dale Himel-right
(99
Kerrt Ujimel. right
3950 Barry Ave
r
Hay 31
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E C E I
K~lamath Falls, Ore5
V
May 30, 1994
1
994
in the winter tipe.
1500 miles.
First my snowmobile is my onlymeans of rereaction
This past winter I rode mysnowsmobile approxamatly
I would like to add these connents regarding the future development plan:
the North
Rhterence which is avery short ride with one view of the lake.
(1)
I would like to have the area around Crater Lake as pristine as
possible. Therefore, your plan to have shuttle services to
the viewing area is highly commendable. Would the shuttle
be able to accommodate the handicapped and people in wheelchairs?
Perhaps an exception could be made to let those people drive
to the viewing area.
(2)
In general, I favor Alternative II which would place the
majority of concession support facilities and park administration
at the South Entrance. I have no objection to some concession
support being placed in the Mazama Village area.
(3)
In the winter plan, I would like to see no further expansion-6f
snowmobile privileges. They are loud and disruptive, and
In fairness, some
are also a major source of air pollution.
snowmobile use must be allowed, but it needs to be kept to a
minimusm.
I
believe the use of Est Ehtrence would not have a negative effect on r
zoo
Dn resources, wildlife,air quality, vegetation or endangered species.
I feel that Crater Lake Park has not met all of it obligations reguarding the
lin-hndYcapped. Ifwe could get another acesspoint it certainly wold be a step
in the right direction.
Reguarding the proposal to move the park headquaters to the panhandle
arei with the wildlife wintering and calting in this:area ILbelieve tf
this have a effect on the animal life in the area:
As I close I ask that we be given some serious consideration in your
winter rer ecation studs I believe pARK HEAWUATERS should resain in
its present location.
SiKrn
eig
ALPRK
Thank you for your recent visit to Roseburg regarding the
development plan for Crater Lake National Park.
I believe it is important that handbeapped be givensome
wwinter recreational access to Creater Iake other than;
AE
PO Box 7, Crater Lake National Park
I am again writing in reguards to Alternative ,# 4 as a haney capped
person (parapalegic).
jCRATE
-RATER LAKE NATT PAR~i
Howard Morris:
Z
1
In conclusion, I appreciate your efforts in preserving the beauty
of Crater Lake National Park. The biggest fear is that people will
"love it to death" and I am pleased that you are moving forward to
keep that from happening.
i~ryHimellwright
Anna Slemmer
1234 NWTroost
Roseburg, OR 97470
E CE IV E
May 31, 1994
David Morris - Superintendent
PO Box 7
|1
oATER LAKE NAI PARK
June1, 1994
RE: Crater Lake plans for New Trail Route Plan, for Winter Use Plan and for
Development Concept Plan
PO Box 7
1. New Trail Route Plan
I have not seen or have seen plans for the new route linking the north rim to the PCI but I
am aware of two proposed routes, one going down a long ridge and the other following an old
road and down drainage to the PCI. They may be equally suitable both physically and measure-up
to an environmental assessment Esthetically they may be different Do they bisect any fragile
landscapes (soils, plant or animal communities). How does one build and mark a trail through a
pumice landscape without intruding upon the very nature of it? With the eruption of Mt Mazama
6600 years ago one can get a glimpse of geological force and plant succession. The trail chosen
should be instructive while the least intrusive.
Use trail building guides with caution as most were done in the 1930's, the premise was to
protect the trail from erosion not to protect the country through which it was built
-= =MKp winter use as is on the rims but end RV winter camping on south Snow machines on
road only to north rim. Keep south rim facilities open to autos and its pedestrians, x-c skiers, and
snowshoers. Modest expansion at headquarters to accomodiate x-c skiers so as not to trash Steel
Center while providing place out of snow. Suggest employees recreation hall. Maybe ski and
snowshoe rental concession. Expansion of winter use at Mazama village is OK. Snow load?
Crater Lake National Park is magnificent and unique. As a cross country skier, I am also
aware of the difficulties of mixed use by skiers and snow machines. I would implore you to
keep these two user groups separate. Please allow skiers to enjoy the beauty of the park in
designated areas without the sound of machines.
od
2
/.
Richard H Sommer
- Roseburg, Or
97470
Winter Use Plan
Dear Mr. Morris:
Sincerely Yours,
Richard H Sommer - 240 Vineyard Lane
219
PAR
Re:
3. Development Concept Plan.
I prefer the option of no or a gradual change to maybe not banning cars on the rim drive yet
but make it desirable for people to participate in Ranger Naturalist excursions and continue the
boat ride with car or bus shuttle from headquarters or Rim Vtllage to trailhead at Cleatwood Cove
for ranger-naturalist interpretative boatride to Wizard Island and around lake.
Building a lodge at Mazama Village is OK but what about the anamoly of the Crater Lake
Lodge on the rim? Concessionaire have private shuttle for the guests? How about people for day
use, sightseeing, eating. For now it looks like cars will be it
It seems to me the biggest act at Crater Lake is the ranger-naturalist boatride around lake. I
think the ranger-naturalist program can be expanded to accomodiate bus tours similar to the ones in
Glacier National Park. Let's make it fist class, Crater Lake National Park. The only question is
money. Have it like the old days with geologists, botanists, biologists, peots, artists and
photographers acting as Ranger Naturalists on the boat ride and other guided tours.
For now leave adminstrative offices at headquarters.
Even though the boatride sucks up the Ranger Naturalists there must be some way to
budget for a full staff at Sinnott Memorial, guided walks and other tours.
?Iu -
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1 -503-67
I favor alternative 1, with a modification. Please consider developing one or two huts so at
skiers could circumnavigate the rim. Thank you for your time and efforts to manage human ZO9
use of this wonderful area.
Sincerely,
Rosemary D Cakdilo
7015 SW 8th venue
Portland, OR 97219
SV SNOWMOBILERS
P.O. BOX 3
SUMPTER, OR 97877
May 28, 1994
" ) "-
!,;-RATER LAKE NATL PARK
P. 0. Box 7
I'd
S`I-A
oN
Dear Mr. Morriss
We support end ask for expanded snowmobile access from the Pinnacles
to Kerr Notch, which would benefit snommobilers from the Klamsth Falls
area, as well as all visiting snowmobilers. It is also important to
retain access from the north entrance to the rim.
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PLEASE consider and grant these requests in the new winter use study in
Crater Lake National Park.
Sincerely,
,&a,
A
e&
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,
Glen Marshall
Prebident
Sumpter Valley Snowmobilers,
Inc.
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Joe Sunthimer
1705 SE 144th CT
Vancouver, WA 98684
David Morris
Supervisor Crater Lake National Park
PO Box 7
Crater lake, OR 97604
Bernard
O.S.S.A.
Route 1
Weston,
May 27,
Ma'~~
fg9 {E APL PARK
P.O. Box 7
Dear Mr Morris
I heard you are reviewing your winter use plan and are evaluating several
alternatives on the use of snowmobiles. Although I have not seen the plan and
alternatives I understand Alternative I leaves the access of snowmobiles the
same and would not allow them on the rim. I support this alternative.
I would strongly object to opening additional areas to snowmobiles. Snowmobiles
do not mix well with other winter uses such as X-Country skIing or snow
shoeing. They disrupt the serenity of the winter forest and destroy ski trails.
Some areas need to be set aside for non-moterized use.
!CRATER LAKE NAil PARK
Dear Sir:
ZD1
Please consider expanding
the snowmobile access from the I
This could be of great benefit to all
I
We also need to retain access from the north
Pinnacles to Kerr Notch.
snowmobilers.
Sincerely
R. Chapman
Director District 8
Box 75
OrepDon- r 6
T
199
r I,;E
entrance to the rim.
Thank you for your consideration.
Yours truly,
2L 4, 4 d 72.
Bernard R. Chapman
DONALD B. POTTER
ATTORNEY AT LAW
-i' E E I V E
11I YTONBUILDINIO
522S.W.FIFTH AVENUE
FORTLAND. OREGON 97204
DIRECT DIAL NUMBER
(53) 223.1534
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May 31, 1994
May 26, 1994
CRT LAKE
.ER NAT.
AR
PO Box 7
Dave Morris
Superintendent
P.O. Box 7
Re:
C ElI V E)
I PE
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TEL (035) 223.2612
FAX (503) 223.7419
Re:
Winter Use Plan
Dear Mr. Morris:
snowmobiles
I am writing this
letter
to ask that
you not allow
snowmobiles to be used in the Crater Lake National Park.
Snowmobiles are very noisy, disturbing and polluting.
Very truly
2_Oq
We urge you to adopt alternative 1. Please do not mix use by skiers and snow machines
Snow machines are not compatible with cross country skiing due to noise and emissions.
.In
general, snow machines are not compatible with the back country experience offered by
Crater Lake National Park.
If possible, please add one or two huts so that skiers can circumnavigate the rim.
yours,
Sincerely,
Donald B.
Potter
Andyinsburg and Danielle Erb
2658 SW Talbot Rd.
Portland, OR 97201
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Howard Giger
Pegs Speger
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PO.ox 249
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Om- 97845
(503)575-2(0 (OSSA/ FAX)
bnPi",On.. 97739
1)002-682SNOW
(7669)
FAX
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PATE
ASHMTM
(503)575-0262(1fomt)
(53)575.166(10%b6)k
May 28, 1994
pE SC EI I ElR
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P 0 Box 7
Crater Lake,
'CRATER LAKE NATIL PARKS
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Oregon 97604
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Dear Mr. Morris:
In regards to the public comment regarding Crater Lake
National Park, the Oregon State Snowmobile Association would
like to go on record as asking for snowmobile access to the
park via the east entrance on Pinnacles Road to the overlook
at Kerr Notch.
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We would like to maintain the only access we now have from
the north entrance to the rim.
Ideally, we would like access to the lodge which would be off
great benefit to our handicapped riders. This would also beI'\gi
a considerable economic benefit to the park.
We appreciate
would like to
achieve these
National Park
your consideration of our requests and we
cooperate with you in every way possible to
winter recreation opportunities in our
for those who are unable to ski.
...............
Sincerely,
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Howard Gieger, President
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Mr. David Morris
Superintendent Crater Lake National Park
PO Box 7
Crater Lake OR 97604
'~y/?M/-
I am writing you because I have heard there is a proposal to extend the area snowmobliers
are allowed to use in the Park. As a cross country skier, who visits this area at least once
a year, I am naturally opposed to anything which would disrupt the solitude which the
nosiey, smelly and often speed crazed snowmobliers would do. I would think this would
also be adistraction to those who are just sightseers. If you feel you must extend the
snowmobliers area, please do so from where the north entrance road reaches the rim and
away from the rim village, an area which is hard for skiers to reach in one days trek.
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Larry Risch
1500 SW Park Ave. #414
Portland, OR 97201
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ATRLAKE NATT PARK
Dear David,
Sincerely,
7
T1 A
Also since I am writing about this, I would like you to try keeping the lodging at the
Mazama place? open in winter for two years. since it takes this long for visitors to even Z
know that it is available, before deciding if this is something the Park can make money
on. More advertising would help as well.
ton
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10June94
PO Box 7
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LAKE NATL PARK
AELAEN
May 25, 1994
TPRK
P.O. Box 7
Dear Mr. Morris, Recently, I heard about the likelihood ofnew regulations regarding winter sports activities at
Crater lake National Park. I am an avid cross-country skier and consider Crater Lake one ofvety
few high-country areas that is still pristine and reasonably accessible for winter enjoyment. If what
I heard is correct, I strongly urge you to reconsider the following:
Snowinobilers (I) damage the environment and disturb wildlife, (2) pretty much destroy the
enjoyment potential for cross country skiers, and (3) already have access to much more winter back
country than skiers. If for no other reason, snowmobiles should not be allowed in Crater LatkeZ
National Park simply to protect the fragile ecosystem and the wildlife.
I personally like the idea of hut-to-hut skiing. However, hut-to-but skiing will attract more skiers
that carry discardable items, and some skiers are not very conscientious about carrying out their
trash when they leave. Also, unless the huts are removed when the snow is gone, hikers and other 2.7
non-skiing visitors will use them, leaving more litter behind and creating eyesores for other visitors.
Unless you have found a sure-fire way to deal with the trash that will accumulate, hut-to-hut
activities should not be allowed in Crater Lake National Park.
Sincerely,
JAMES S. ROUSE
108 N38TII PLACE
__
IMIOUNT VERNON, WA 98273
Dear David:
Thank you for giving me tile opportunity to offer my review commntin on ItheDian
Winter Use Plan, and the Ievelopment Plans for Crater Lake National Park.
6
The April 1994, Draft Winter ULcePlan is a well prepared document, and I would
encourage the NPS to use this same approach on other planning documents.
I very much favor Altcrmativc I as outlined, as this course of action will continue the
existing types and levels of winter use within the Park, and at the same time preserve the
winter wilderness integrity of the area.
I am strongly opposed to any proposal that would permit or encourage any mechanical
grooming of trails for snowmobiles. Likewise, I am opposed to a use of a hut-to-hut
system for cross country ski or snowshoe use. Winter safety and wilderness integrity are
again the factor, as well as concern for natural resource degradation that could result from
such use.
As you probably know. I was involved like you.in a winter use study at Crater Lake in
about 1980 -1981. 1 believe we came up with about the same conclusion as Altcrnative 1,
and for the same reasons.
John Wortendyke
6320 SE 84th. Place
Portland, OR 97266
It was very encouraging to read in the 'Background" section of your Public Mectuu
Workbook, that the House - Senate Appropriations Committee was concerned about the
cost and scope of developments at the Rim Village. (So was 1, and rm sure many other
strong park supporters). I have been convinced since my earliest involvement in the
planning and management decisions at Crater Lake, back in the early 1970's, that the NPS
should reduce developments and eliminate overnight facilities at the Rim.
This reduced development philosophy for National Parks was strengthened this
week when
the Sccretary of Interior announced the DEpartmcnts plan to, "revamp
a deteriorating
National Park System.' He was quoted as saying, "Our tirst mission is to protect
park
resources." That has been and always should be our number one objective
at Crater Lake.
Another priority that was declared is to . "lure private donors to build now
employee
housing.' Here is where Crater Lakc could consider employce housing outside
Park
boundaries.
I am not informed of the current status of, or NPS position concerning the old Lodge at
the
Rim? I would appreciate having a report or information on that issue. Also, I
am very
concerned that if we are proposing for Phase I and Phase II for employee dorms at
the
Mazama Village and South Entrance; then what is planned for the Concessioners
Employee Dorn at the Rim? Thcre was a lot opposition to that structure being built
there
in 1970-71. (I could tell you more on that later, but not in aletter.)
C-
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I
With a little luck, I may get up to visit you and the Park this summer. I would really
enjoy
a good visit with you, and to see some of the new facilities that I had a hand in approving
years ago.
Thanks again,and keep up the good work.
Sincerely,
4
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Rousc'
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Responses to Comments
1.
Comment noted. The winter use plan does not support additional snowmobile access
to Crater Lake National Park.
2.
Comment noted.
3.
Comment noted. See response to comment 1.
4.
Comment noted.
5.
Comment noted.
6.
7.
Each alternative is considered viable until after the public comment period. Support
for increased snowmobile access via the Pinnacles Road was considered during the
decision-making process.
8.
Throughout the planning process, the primary issue was whether to eliminate,
maintain, or expand park access for snowmobiles. The winter use plan supports
continued snowmobile access from the north entrance to North Junction via the
north entrance road.
9.
Comment noted.
10.
Comment noted. Winter use in the park will remain as under existing conditions.
11.
Comment noted.
12.
Comment noted.
13.
As shown on Table A-1, freeway traffic at 50 feet generates approximately
70 decibels (dBA), while normal conversation at 15 feet produces approximately
50 dBA. As stated in the letter, regulations specify that snowmobiles manufactured
after 1976 cannot generate more than 73 dBA at 50 feet while traveling 15 miles per
hour (mph). It can be concluded that a snowmobile traveling at 15 mph generates
a noticeably higher sound level than freeway traffic, assuming the receiver is located
50 feet from either source.
JONWS/CRAM WINTE
08/22/9cA
USE
A-1
Table A-1. Weighted Sound Levels and Human Response
Sound Source
dBA*
Carrier deck jet operation
*
Response Criteria
140
Limit amplified speech
130
Painfully loud
Jet takeoff (200 feet)
Discotheque
Auto horn (3 feet)
120
Threshold of feeling and pain
Maximum vocal effort
Riveting machine
Jet takeoff (2,000 feet)
110
Shout (0.5 foot)
New York subway station
100
Very annoying
Heavy truck (50 feet)
Pneumatic drill (50 feet)
90
Hearing damage (8 hours)
Passenger train (100 feet)
Helicopter (in-flight, 500 feet)
Freight train (50 feet)
80
Annoying
Freeway traffic (50 feet)
70
Telephone use difficult
Intrusive
Air conditioning unit (20 feet)
Light auto traffic (50 feet)
60
Normal conversation (15 feet)
50
Living room
Bedroom
Library
40
Soft whisper (15 feet)
30
Broadcasting studio
20
Quiet
Very quiet
10
Just audible
0
Threshold of hearing
Typical A-weighted sound levels taken with a sound-level meter and expressed as decibels on the scale.
The "A' scale approximates the frequency response of the human ear.
Source: U.S. Council on Environmental Quality 1970.
O8/22/94e
A-2
The purpose of this response is to clarify the author's point of reference regarding
the relative noise levels generated from snowmobiles and other sources. Whether
or not snowmobiles generate significant noise impacts is subjective and beyond the
scope of this project.
14.
Comment noted.
15.
Comment noted.
16.
Comment noted.
17.
18.
Comment noted.
19.
20.
Snowmobiling may provide local, regional, or statewide economic benefits; however,
convenience and profit are not sufficient rationale for providing services or facilities
within park boundaries or changing existing NPS policy for the economic benefit of
gateway communities.
21.
Data exist to support conclusions that snowmobile use has minimal adverse effects
on wildlife.
22.
23.
Under the winter use plan, cross-country skiing opportunities within the park would
not be expanded.
24.
Under the winter use plan, overnight backcountry camping will continue under the
existing permit system.
25.
The winter use plan does not support expanded snowmobiling or cross-country skiing
opportunities within the park.
26.
Comment noted. No trail grooming would occur within the park.
27.
Comment noted. No hut-to-hut system would be developed within the park.
28.
29.
Comment noted. Snowmobile and snowcoach access will continue via the north
entrance road from the north entrance to North Junction.
JONEs/CRATM WINTER USE
WS/22/94e
A-3
30.
Comment noted. Development of a year-round lodge in Mazama Village would
increase visitor use and potentially overburden facilities and park resources. For this
reason, the NPS will reevaluate construction of the lodge before the lodge is built.
Language addressing this issue has been added to Chapter 1 of the winter use plan,
under "Need for Additional Visitor Services" (pages 1-12 and 1-13).
31.
Comment noted.
32.
The threatened, endangered, and sensitive animal section in Chapter 2 of the winter
use plan has been expanded to include a list of federal candidate species and statelisted species.
33.
It is beyond the scope of this project to develop an interpretive plan. The NPS will
develop an interpretive plan or specific objectives related to enhancement of winter
interpretive services as new facilities are developed pursuant to the DCP.
34.
Comment noted.
35.
36.
37.
Comment noted.
38.
39.
40.
Comment noted.
41.
42.
Comment noted.
43.
Comment noted.
44.
Comment noted.
45.
46.
Comment noted.
47.
Comment noted.
48.
Comment noted.
IONES/CRA7ER WNTER USE
08/22/94c
A4
49.
Comment noted.
50.
Comment noted.
51.
52.
No additional snowmobile access will be allowed in Crater Lake National Park.
53.
Comment noted.
54.
55.
Comment noted.
56.
Comment noted.
57.
58.
59.
Comment noted.
60.
Comment noted.
61.
Comment noted.
62.
Comment noted.
63.
Comment noted.
64.
Comment noted.
65.
Comment noted.
66.
Comment noted.
67.
Comment noted.
68.
Comment noted.
69.
Comment noted.
70.
Comment noted.
71.
Comment noted.
JONES/CRATES
0822/94CA
WINTE
USE
A-5
72.
Comment noted.
73.
Comment noted.
74.
Comment noted.
75.
Comment noted.
76.
Comment noted.
77.
Comment noted.
78.
Comment noted.
79.
Comment noted.
80.
Comment noted.
81.
Comment noted.
82.
Comment noted. Park access for winter visitors with disabilities will continue by
snowmobile and snowcoach from the north and automobile from the south. The
proposed construction of a new activity center in Rim Village will enhance
opportunities for visitors with disabilities to view the lake year-round.
83.
84.
Comment noted. Park access for all winter user groups will continue.
85.
Comment noted. Justification for not allowing additional snowmobile access to the
park is provided in Chapter 4 of the winter use plan under "The Winter Use Plan Snowmobiling" (page 4-2).
86.
87.
Comment noted.
88.
Comment noted.
89.
Comment noted. No expanded use of motorized snowmachines within the park is
proposed.
90.
Comment noted.
91.
Comment noted.
JONES/CRATER WINERM USE
08/22/94,
A-6
92.
Comment noted. The winter use plan does not support development of a hut-to-hut
system in the park.
93.
Comment noted.
94.
Comment noted.
95.
Comment noted.
96.
Comment noted.
97.
98.
Comment noted.
99.
100.
Comment noted. See response to comment 1. The winter use plan does not support
development of a groomed trail system.
101.
Comment noted.
102.
Comment noted. The winter use plan supports continued backcountry camping
under the existing permit system.
103.
Comment noted.
104.
Comment noted. No groomed trail or hut-to-hut system will be developed.
105.
Comment noted.
106.
Comment noted.
107.
Comment noted.
108.
Comment noted.
109.
110.
Comment noted. The winter use plan does not support development of a winter
campground.
111.
Comment noted.
112.
Comment noted.
JONES/CR&TM WINTER USE
O/22/A
A-7
113.
Comment noted.
114.
Comment noted.
115.
Comment noted.
116.
Comment noted.
117.
Comment noted.
118.
119.
Comment noted. No groomed trail or hut-to-hut system will be developed.
120.
A total of 257 comment letters were received. Of the total, 152 letters supported
maintaining existing snowmobile access along the north entrance road; 105 letters
supported increased park access for snowmobiles.
121.
Park staff and volunteer ski patrol members have estimated that between 200 and
300 people ski around Crater Lake each winter season.
122.
Please refer to response to comment 13 and Table A-1.
123.
Comment noted.
124.
Comment noted.
125.
Comment noted. The text has been changed accordingly.
126.
Comment noted. The text has been changed accordingly.
127.
Comment noted. Chapter 2 of the winter use plan has been expanded to include a
list of federally listed threatened or endangered species, federal candidate species,
and state-listed species. This list was prepared subsequent to field investigations
performed as part of the DCP planning process. Field investigations were performed
for the Rim Village, Munson Valley, Mazama Village, and Panhandle study areas.
Information in this section was taken from the Threatened, Endangered, and
Sensitive Animals Report, Rim Village, Munson Valley, Mazama Village, and
Panhandle Study Areas at Crater Lake National Park, prepared by Jones & Stokes
Associates (1993a).
It was beyond the scope of this project to perform a detailed wildlife study for the
environmental assessment. Additionally, there is no evidence indicating that existing
winter activities have an adverse effect on wildlife. Because there is no evidence
identifying existing impacts, and since the types of activities and areas in which
OS22/%e
A-8
activities will occur are not expected to change under the winter use plan, projected
moderate increases in winter use would not have an adverse impact on wildlife.
128.
The depth of analysis contained in the environmental assessment is commensurate
with the level of impact expected.
129.
Comment noted. A detailed analysis quantifying environmental impacts associated
with winter use in the park would be a useful component to the planning process;
however, as discussed, the level of analysis provided is commensurate with the level
of impact expected. The NPS feels the impacts associated with implementation of
the winter use plan have been adequately addressed.
130.
Comment noted.
131.
Comment noted.
132.
Comment noted.
133.
Snowmobile and backcountry camping activities will continue as under existing
conditions.
134.
Comment noted.
135.
Comment noted.
136.
Comment noted.
137.
Comment noted.
138.
Comment noted.
139.
Comment noted.
140.
Comment noted.
141.
Comment noted.
142.
Comment noted. The winter use plan does not support development of a hut-to-hut
system in the park.
143.
144.
Comment noted. No overnight lodging facilities are proposed under the winter use
plan.
145.
Comment noted.
08/22/94A
A-9
146.
Comment noted. Justification for not allowing additional snowmobile access to the
park is provided in Chapter 4 of the winter use plan under 'The Winter Use Plan Snowmobiling" (page 4-2).
147.
148.
Comment noted.
149.
150.
Comment noted.
151.
Comment noted.
152.
Comment noted. No changes to existing snowmobile access are proposed under the
winter use plan.
153.
Comment noted. See responses to comment 1 and comment 146.
154.
Comment noted.
155.
Comment noted.
156.
Comment noted. All interested parties were given the opportunity to present their
opinions during the January and May 1994 public meetings and during the written
comment period following each series of meetings. A summary of the public
involvement process in provided in Chapter 4, under "Winter Use Planning Process"
(page 4-1). All opinions were considered during the decision-making process.
157.
Comment noted. See response to comment 13 regarding noise. No significant
environmental impacts were identified with implementation of the winter use plan.
All user groups will be given park access under the winter use plan.
158.
Comment noted.
159.
Comment noted. While the concept of winter lodging facilities in the Mazama
Village area has been approved by the NPS, no plans exist to construct lodging
facilities. As stated in the winter use plan, this issue will be reevaluated in 3 to
5 years.
160.
Comment noted.
161.
162.
Comment noted.
JONES/CRATER WAND
08122/%c
USE
A-10
163.
Comment noted.
164.
Comment noted.
165.
Comment noted.
166.
167.
168.
Comment noted.
169.
Comment noted.
170.
Comment noted.
171.
Comment noted.
172.
Comment noted.
173.
Comment noted.
174.
Comment noted. Backcountry camping will continue under the existing permit
system.
175.
Comment noted.
176.
Comment noted.
177.
Comment noted.
178.
Comment noted.
179.
Comment noted. All user groups will be given park access under the winter use plan.
180.
Comment noted. Snowmobile access to North Junction via the north entrance road
will be continued.
181.
Comment noted.
182.
Comment noted.
183.
Comment noted.
184.
Comment noted. See response to comments 179 and 180.
08/22/94e
A-11
185.
Comment noted.
186.
Comment noted.
187.
188.
Comment noted.
189.
Comment noted. The winter use plan does not support further snowmobile access
via Pinnacles Road.
190.
191.
192.
Comment noted.
193.
194.
Comment noted.
195.
Comment noted.
196.
197.
Comment noted. All user groups are provided access to the park under the winter
use plan.
198.
Comment noted. The numbers of snowmobile and cross-country ski trail miles
surrounding Crater Lake National Park were provided by the Rogue River, Winema,
and Umpqua National Forest district offices.
199.
Comment noted. Additional snowmobile access via Pinnacles Road was considered
during the planning process.
200.
Comment noted. See response to comment 13 regarding noise. No significant
environmental impacts were identified with implementation of the winter use plan
or the alternatives.
201.
202.
203.
Comment noted. Under the winter use plan, overnight camping will be prohibited
in the Rim Village area, and snowmobile access will remain via the north entrance
road. Vehicle access to Munson Valley and Rim Village via the south entrance will
0/22/94e
A-12
continue. DCP issues will be addressed in the DCP Environmental Impact
Statement.
204.
205.
Comment noted.
206.
207.
Comment noted.
208.
Comment noted.
209.
Comment noted.
210.
211.
Comment noted.
212.
Comment noted.
213.
Comment noted.
214.
Comment noted.
215.
Comment noted.
216.
Comment noted.
217.
Comment noted.
218.
219.
Comment noted.
220.
Comment noted.
221.
Comment noted. The winter use plan supports continued snowmobile access via the
north entrance road.
222.
Comment noted. There currently is no proposal to construct year-round lodging
within the park. Please see response to comment 20 regarding economic benefits
resulting from snowmobile activity.
223.
Comment noted. See response to comments 1, 174, and 104.
08/22/94A
A-13
224.
225.
Comment noted.
226.
227.
228.
Comment noted.
229.
230.
Comment noted.
231.
Comment noted.
232.
Comment noted.
233.
Comment noted.
08/22/9e
A-14
Appendix B
Crater Lake National Park Winter Recreation Use Tables
Table B-i. Diamond Lake Ranger District Snowmobile Trails
Distance in Miles
Trail
One-Way
Diamond Lake
Crater Lake
Lemolo Lake
Crescent Lake
Summit Lake
Skookum Lake
Three Lakes
Lake West
Dog Prairie
Mt. Bailey
Old Man Camp
Kelsey Mountain
Windigo Pass
Elephant Mountain
Union Creek
Hamaker Mountain
Hamaker Snow Park
Chemult
Summit Rock
Total
12
20
16
38
31
18
11
10
18
16
12
14
19
14
37
12
16
38
10
362
Total
38
39
38
33
44
99
291
Loop
Kelsey Mountain Loop
Elephant Mountain Loop
Hamaker Loop
Bear Creek Loop
Incense Cedar Loop
Crescent Lake Loop
Source:
JONES/CRATER WWI
08/22/94e
USE
Diamond Lake Resort. 1993. Diamond Lake trail map. Diamond
Lake, OR.
B-1
Table B-2. Rogue River National Forest Snowmobile Trails
Distance in Miles
(round-trip)
Trail
Rocktop
Ginkgo
Thousand Springs
Hucldeberry
Pipeline
Whiskey Creek
Lake West (also shown in Table 3)
Hamaker (portions included in Table 3)
Divide
Bybee
Total
Source:
JONEW/CRAT
08/22/94c
W EIl
USE
18.0
10.0
7.0
6.0
11.0
7-3
10.0
10.5
4.1
18.5
102.4
U.S. Forest Service, Rogue River National Forest. 1990. Rogue River
National Forest recreation opportunity guide 1990. Prospect, OR.
B-2
Table B-3. Recreation Use at Snow Parks in Rogue River National Forest
Total Winter
Visits
Thousand Springs
1991-92
1992-93
JONES/CRAMT
OS/2=/94e
Snowmobile Visits
Cross-Country Ski Visits
2,187 (95%)
2,935 (92%)
115 (5%)
255 (8%)
Snow Play Visits
3,942 (88%)
5,092 (82%)
Cross-Country Ski Visits
2,302
3,190
Farwell Bend (no snowmobile use)
4,480
1991-92
6,210
1992-93
Source:
Winter Activity
538 (12%)
1,118 (18%o)
Dent, Chris. Recreation forester. Rogue River National Forest, Prospect, OR.
January 24, 1994 - telephone conversation.
WINTER USE
B-3
Table B-4. Winema National Forest Snowmobile Trails
Trail
Distance in Miles
Kiamath Ranger District
Goose Nest
Wild Cat
Dry Creek Loop
Diamond Lake
Seven Mile Loop
Three Mile Loop
Pelican Butte
Cold Springs
Old Pelican Butte
Return Loop
West Four Mile Lake
East Four Mile Lake
Pearce
Resort
Varney Creek
Sunset
Buck Peak Cutoff
Buck Peak
Cabin
5.5
4.4
8.8
34.2
5.4
6.7
4.6
14.6
65
4.4
55
5.2
23
1.2
5.0
12.9
1.2
3.0
3.4
Lake of the Woods - Fish Lake
Hyatt - Lake of the Woods
7.0
21.9
Subtotal
Chemalt Ranger District
Park Boundary/Lake of the Woods
44.2
Secondary/Accessory
17.0
Subtotal
Total
Source:
164.3
612
2255
U.S. Forest Service, Winema National Forest, Kiamath Ranger District. 1994. Winema
National Forest recreation data. KIamath Falls, OR.
08/22/94c
B4
Table B-5. Kiamath Ranger District Snow Park Visitation
Average Annual Visits
Snow Park
3,000
900
5,200
3,500
850
1,100
1,500
Annie Creek
Dead Indian
Great Meadow
Lake of the Woods Resort
Four Mile Lake Road
Ichabod Spring
Summit Ski Area
Source:
iOHES/CRATM WINTERUSE
08/22/94eB5
U.S. Forest Service, Winema National Forest, KIamath Ranger District.
1994. Winema National Forest recreation data. K(lamath Falls, OR.
B-5
Table B-6. Crater Lake Area Cross-Country Ski Trails
Trail
Distance in Miles
Rogue River National Forest
Union Creek
Old Growth
Union Creek Campground
Natural Bridge Loop
Old Wagon Road
Jackpine
Lake West
Subtotal
Umpqua National Forest (Diamond Lake Ranger District)
Silent Creek
North Crater
Howlock Mountain
Cinnamon Butte
Wits End Way
Pacific Crest
Mt. Thielsen
Vista
Horse N' Teal
Mt. Bailey
Crater Lake North Rim
Spruce Ridge
4.0
3.5
3.5
3.0
5.0
10.5
3.0
3.0
1.5
5.0
9.2
2.5
Subtotal
Winema National Forest (Kiamath Ranger District)
Four Mile Lake
Lake of the Woods
McLoughlin
Lower Canal
Upper Canal
Powerline
Billie Creek Loop
South Rye
Petunia
Big Mac
08/22/94c
B-6
10.0
3.5
3.0
6.0
7.0
7.5
8.0
45.0
54.0
6.0
1.9
4.2
2.6
6.5
3.0
6.6
.6
2.1
1.4
Table B-6. Continued
Distance in Miles
Trail
Pitt View
Sunset
Triangle Loop
Subtotal
Winema National Forest (Chemalt Ranger District)
No trails currently exist
1.4
1.0
2.8
40.1
N/A
Area Total
139.1
Sources: U.S. Forest Service, Rogue River National Forest. 1990. Rogue River National Forest
recreation opportunity guide 1990. Prospect, OR.
U.S. Forest Service, Winema National Forest, Klamath Ranger District. 1994. Winema
National Forest recreation data. Klamath Falls, OR.
US. Forest Service, Umpqua National Forest, Diamond Lake Ranger District. 1994.
Recreation data summary. Diamond Lake, OR.
Parker, Judith. Recreation planner. U.S. Forest Service, Winema National Forest, Chemalt
Ranger District, Chemalt, OR. January 25, 1994 - telephone conversation.
JONES/CRATER WVINUTUSE
08/22/WB
B-7
Appendix C
NPS Position Statement on Proposed Change in
Snowmobile Use in Crater Lake National Park
POSITION STATEMENT ON PROPOSED CHANGE
IN SNOWMOBILE USE IN CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK
1984
CURRENT POLICY:
The existing policy of only allowing snowmobiles in the park on
the North Entrance Road between Highway 138 and the~ North Junction
is the result of an extensive public involvement and decision
making process. On February 23, 1976, proposed snowmobile regulations for Crater Lake National Park were published in the Federal
Six hundred and seven responses were received, of
Register.
which there were more responses indicating a preference for no
snowmobiling in the park than those favoring snowmobiling or an
In August of
increase in areas available for snowmobiling.
1976, the regulation took effect.
Snowmobile use was addressed in the General Management Plan of
1977 and comment supported snowmobile use as per the 1976 regulation.
The team considered
A Winter Use Study was conducted in 1980.
five alternatives for snowmobile use, including a through route
for snowmobiles (southeast to north), and opening up a southeast
Organized snowmobile clubs openly
(Pinnacles Route) route.
supported the through route as a portion of a north-south route
The study team estimated the
from California to Washington.
annual cost of operating this route to be $22,000 (1980 prices).
This included the cost of two additional snowmobiles and two
seasonal rangers; grooming costs, if any, would be additional.
Public Meetings concerning the alternatives proposed in the study
were held in five cities and written comments were received.
Seventy-four percent of the public indicated preference for maintaining snowmobiling on the North Entrance Road only.
EXISTING WINTER RECREATION USE EXTERIOR TO PARK:
Crater Lake National Park is surrounded by three national forests
All of these lands are open to
and one area of state land.
snowmobiling with hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile trails.
Additionally, thousands of miles of logging roads are open to
snowmobiles and have excellent snow for the entire winter.
There are no areas, except within the park, that are for skiers
only, restricting snowmobiles and providing opportunities for
The north entrance to north junction
both recreational users.
road in the park is not plowed and is currently open to snowmobiles
and serves the large clientele from the Diamond Lake winter
4
at $22,000 during the winter use study. Personnel ceilings and
limitations would not allow expansion of seasonal work force to
cover this additional load.
CONCLUSION:
Based upon the facts and concerns about safety, the wilderness
experience of backcountry users, costs to the government, potential
impacts to the endangered peregrine falcon, and the demonstrated
public opposition to increased snowmobile access to Crater Lake,
it is determined that there will be no change to existing regulations and therefore, the Pinnacles road will not be opened to
snowmobiles.
BIBLIOGRAPHY:
WINTER RECREATION, SNOWMOBILING AND ITS EFFECTS: A RESEARCH REVIEW
Crater Lake National Park, Downing, Starkey, Thompson, 1975,
L3427 1976
SUMMARY OF PREFERENCES RELATIVE TO SNOWMOBILE ALTERNATIVESINDIVIDTable 1, L3427 1981
UAL RESPONSE FORMS:
NEWS RELEASE, CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK, UNDATED TITLED "NO
CHANGES IN CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK WINTER OPERATIONS", L3427
1981
MEMO TO REGIONAL DIRECTOR, "SNOWMOBILES (Meeting with Don Stonehill
and Tom Horn)"
CRATER LAKE WINTER USE STUDY QUESTIONNAIRE, L3427 1980
Appendix D
Crater Lake National Park Winter Use Plan Public
Meeting Workbook
Winter Use Plan
Public Meeting Workbook
Lake
- Crater
National Park- Oregon
Public Meeting Workbook
January 1994
Winter Use Plan
Crater Lake
National Park - Oregon
United States Department of the Interior * National Park Service * Denver Service Center
Table of Contents
Page
INTRODUCTION..................................................
1
EXISTING VW'INER USES .........................................
3
DRAFT ALTERNATIVE WINTER USE SCENARIOS ......
01/05/94%
6
10
PUBLIC COMMENT ....................
JONES/CRATER WDMM USE
...............
JONES &MOM ASSOIES
i
List of Figures
Figure
Page
1
Regional Map and Location of Study Areas..........follows
2
Existing Winter Use ..................
3
Alternative 2, Reduced Winter Use.............follows
7
4
Alternative 3, Expanded Cross-Country Skiing.........follows
8
5
Alternative 4, Expanded Cross-Country Skiing and
Snowmobiling ....................
follows 4
JONES/CRlATHR WINTER USE
01IOS/94c
2
ii
follows 9
JONES &STO)KES ASSOCIATES
CRATER LAKE NATIONAL PARK WINTER USE PLAN
PUBLIC MEETING WORKBOOK
INTRODUCTION
welcomne
Welcome to one of a series of four public information meetings
being held during January 1994 by the National Park Service (NPS).
The purpose of these meetings is to receive public input regarding
preparation of a Winter Use Plan (WUP) for Crater Lake National
Park. This workbook includes:
* a brief description of Crater Lake and the NPS,
* a description of the need for the WUP,
* a description of existing winter use at Crater Lake National
Park, and
* a description of four alternative winter use scenarios.
Background
Planning the future of Crater
Lake
Stimulated by the need to determine the future of the historic
Crater Lake Lodge, the NPS undertook an intense planning effort
during the 1980s. The approved plan, finalized in 1988, was the
result of a series of public planning efforts addressing the future
character of the Rim Village area of the park. Public comments were
solicited at three separate points in the planning process. The
approved plan called for rehabilitation of the lodge and replacement
of the existing gift store and cafeteria with a new year-round activity
center/hotel in Rim Village. Following this process, the approved
plan was amended to include development of an off-rim parking
facility and removal of all parking in Rim Village.
In October 1991, the House-Senate Appropriations Committee
expressed concern over the rising cost and scope of development for
a new activity center and hotel in Rim Village. The NPS, also
concerned over costs and the appropriateness of year-round lodging
on the rim, removed year-round lodging in Rim Village from the
proposal. Additionally, the need to formulate a long-term strategy to
address growing demand for winter use became evident. This need
was formalized in a request from the House-Senate Appropriations
Committee in September 1992 to prepare a WUP for the park.
To initiate the planning process, the NPS first looked at the
existing pattern of winter use. Foremost among winter visitor
activities is passive viewing of the lake. This includes photography,
relaxation, and contemplation of the winter scene. This will likely
JONES &STOKES ASSOCIAlES
JONES/CRAIER WINTER USE
01/05/94C
I
remain as the primary winter recreational activity in the park.
However, the number of winter visitors participating in active
recreation is increasing. Typically, whether they are on cross-country
skis, snowshoes, or snowmobiles, winter visitors participating in
active recreation are using a means of travel other than the
automobile to enjoy Crater Lake National Park during the winter
season.
While recognizing the value of passive lake viewing, there is a
growing demand to create a formal document that the NPS can use
to assist in addressing active winter recreation issues. Active winter
activities currently occurring in the park are:
*
•
*
*
*
front-country camping,
back-country camping,
snowshoeing, and
snowmobiling.
The NPS has developed four alternative winter use scenarios.
They define varying levels of winter recreational use and focus on
those activities listed above. After receiving public input, the NPS
will select a preferred alternative on which to base the WUP. Your
input into this process is essential for the successful development and
implementation of the plan.
CraterLake National Park and the
Crater Lake National Park is located along the crest of the
Cascade Mountain Range, approximately 70 miles northeast of
Medford, Oregon (Figure 1). Formed after the volcanic eruption of
Mount Mazama approximately 7,700 years ago, Crater Lake, at
1,932 feet, is the deepest lake in the United States and the seventh
deepest lake in the world. Crater Lake National Park encompasses
approximately 188,000 acres and was established in 1902 as
America's sixth national park.
The NationalPark Service
UIIas ins
U1/tO/94e
Since its inception on August 25, 1916, the NPS has managed
and regulated national parks, national monuments, and other
management units within the national park system for the purpose of
protecting and conserving the natural, cultural, and historic resources
contained within unit boundaries. However, just as it is the
responsibility of the NPS to protect and conserve these resources, the
NPS must also impart the significance of these resources and their
contributions to the nation and the public.
2
Z
JONES &STOKESASSOCIATES
Legend
Padfic CrstTral
-.-
N
F --------
~~~Other hiling tal
Hghways
I
Figure 1. Regional Map and Location of Study Areas
m
hLiner roads
Paik boundaias
The intent of the planning process ongoing in Crater Lake
National Park is to define a balance between resource protection and
visitor use. The challenge is to emphasize the park's uniqueness; the
guiding principle is to do nothing that will impact the qualities of
park resources.
Why Develop a Winter Use Plan?
The WUP is being prepared to better clarify the types and levels
Why plan?
of appropriate winter recreational uses. The plan is being prepared
to supplement information provided in response to the House-Senate
Appropriations 1992 Conference Agreement requesting an evaluation
of appropriate winter uses and the locations where these activities
would occur. The WUP will address the following:
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
purpose and need for the WUP,
existing winter recreational activities,
existing winter demand for services and facilities,
winter activities appropriate for the park,
winter use alternative scenarios,
a preferred alternative,
costs to provide additional services, and
environmental assessment of each winter use scenario.
The WUP will augment existing planning documents by defining the
winter recreational use scenario most appropriate for Crater Lake
National Park, and it will provide the NPS a tool for guiding winter
use in the park. The WUP will be incorporated into the Development
Concept Plan now being prepared for Munson Valley, Mazama
Village, and the south entrance area of the park. The environmental
assessment will be prepared in compliance with the National
Environmental Policy Act. Winter recreational uses in the park will
not change until the plan has been completed.
EXISTING WINTER USES
Existing winter activities
Existing winter uses in Crater Lake National Park include:
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
amZ~
SUN~I~ATIN
JUMM/4-
01/05/94e
It
w wCO
I
1=-. win
14n
...
relaxation/contemplation of the natural scene,
viewing the lake/sightseeing,
winter camping (front- and back-country),
guided and individual snowshoe walks,
interpretive activities,
photography,
interpretive activities,
JONES & STOKES ASSOCIATES
3
* snowshoeing, and
* limited snowmobiling.
Most winter visitors will continue driving to the rim and passively
enjoying the lake. For an increasing number of visitors, other
activities and overnight stays have become part of the experience.
This plan will specifically address winter camping, snowshoeing,
cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling. Winter snow play activities
such as sledding and innertubing presently occur within the park but
are not sanctioned or monitored uses. Winter snow play will be
described briefly in this section but will not be addressed as a
component of the WUP. Figure 2 shows the location of existing
active winter recreation activities in Crater Lake National Park.
Route numbers for existing and future snowmobile and
ungroomed/groomed cross-country ski trails are provided for clarity.
Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling
Snowmobiling is allowed within Crater Lake National Park only
from the north park entrance to the North Junction. This 9-mile
stretch of road (Route SI), which is closed to vehicle traffic during
the winter, leads from Oregon 138 to the northwest rim of Crater
Lake (Figure 2). Snowmobilers using this route typically start at
Diamond Lake, approximately 6 miles north of the park boundary.
In addition, snowcoach tours originating in the Diamond Lake area
use this route approximately 8 to 10 times per winter season.
Information on snowmobile use will be derived from Diamond Lake
Resort and the U.S. Forest Service. All but existing roads and
developed areas in the park have been proposed as wilderness and
will be managed under wilderness guidelines. Recreational
snowmobile use is prohibited in wilderness areas.
Cross-CountrySkiing
Cross-country skiing
JONES/CRATER WIANER USE
01/O5/94e
Cross-country skiing is the most popular active winter
recreational activity in the park. There are approximately 70 miles of
ungroomed, marked cross-country ski trails which include Rim Drive
(Route UC1), portions of the Pacific Crest Trail (Route UC2),
Lightning Springs Trail (Route UC3), the Pumice Flat Trail
(Route UC4), the Raven Trail (UC5), and the Dutton Creek Trail
(UC6). These trails are shown on Figure 2. Cross-country skiing in
the rest of the park is unrestricted. The NPS uses 25-30 volunteers
to patrol ski trails. Patrols occur primarily on weekends and holidays.
The most popular ski route is the Rim Drive Trail, a 33-mile
unplowed loop road around the lake. Cross-country ski equipment is
rented at the Rim Village activity center by the park concessioner.
4
JONES &STOKES ASSOCIATES
Legend
*
-*
Snowmobils
Si - North Entrance to North Juncion
-
*-
*.us...sa
Ungrexed crss-country skd trie
UCI- tim Drive
UC2- Padic CrstTrdil
UC3 Lightning SpingsTrcl
UC414Purnic. RatTral
UC5- RevenTri
LiCe- Dutlon CrekTral
G
-
Crost Trail
PPaciic
s
. . . . .Other
O
wl_
hildng WWI
Highways
Mnor roads
.XM
MM
N
Park boundaries
Snowshoes
Front county carring
-
Figure 2. Existing Winter Use
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing
Snowshoeing is an individual or guided interpretive activity in the
park. Guided snowshoe walks are offered by the NPS twice daily on
weekends, holidays, and during Christmas and spring breaks. Group
walks are offered on weekdays by reservation. The primary purpose
for guided snowshoe walks is to provide the winter visitor with a
unique opportunity to view park resources from a perspective
different than that experienced during the summer season. Guided
walks are approximately 1/2 mile long and originate at Rim Village.
Snowshoes can be rented at the activity center. Snowshoeing is
unrestricted throughout the park.
Snow Recreation
Snowplay
Snow recreation includes sledding, innertubing, tobogganing, and
various other snow play activities. There are no designated or
monitored snow recreation areas in the park; however, these
activities generally occur near Rim Village, in meadows or clearings,
and along the roadside. Park policy does not restrict these activities;
however, because of liability issues associated with providing
designated and maintained snow play areas, snow recreation is not
officially sanctioned in the park.
Overnight Camping - Front Country
Overnight camping
Front-country areas by NPS definition include developed areas
of the park such as designated camping areas, Rim Village, Munson
Valley, and Mazama Village. Currently, winter overnight
recreational vehicle and car camping is allowed in Rim Village within
a small designated area; however, no facilities are provided.
Overnight camping in this area is not sanctioned but it is not
prohibited by park policy. The number of visitor parties using this
area generally ranges from zero to three per night. Some concern
exists regarding the safety of overnight camping in Rim Village
because unexpected snow storms can trap vehicles or leave unplowed
roads impassable. No front-country camping facilities are currently
provided because of high snow levels. A provision to appropriately
accommodate this use in the future will be addressed in the WUP.
Overnight Camping - Back Country
By definition back-country areas are those areas located away
from plowed roadways and developed areas such as Rim Village and
Munson Valley. These areas are not maintained but are patrolled by
volunteers and park personnel. Back-country areas are generally used
by winter enthusiasts seeking solitude. Use of these areas is permitted
01/05/94e
5s
throughout the park with little restriction; however, all visitors must
obtain a permit for overnight stays. NPS data show that overnight
back-country use is actually higher during the winter than during the
summer season. Because winter back-country camping occurs
throughout the park and not in designated areas, it is not shown on
Figure 2.
DRAFT ALTERNATIVE WINTER USE
SCENARIOS
Winter use alternatives
Four alternative winter use scenarios have been developed by
park staff. These draft scenarios were developed to provide a
framework for public discussion. The public can suggest additional
alternatives or amend the draft alternatives. The NPS will select a
preferred winter use alternative based on public input upon
completion of the scoping phase of the project.
Altemative 1 - No Action
No action
Snowmobiling
Under this alternative, the current snowmobile/snowcoach route
(Route SI) within the park would remain between the north entrance
and North Junction. No changes to existing snowmobile routes would
occur (Figure 2).
Cross-CountrySkiing
Under this alternative, ungroomed cross-country skiing facilities
within the park would remain unchanged. The existing marked trail
system (Routes UCI through UC6) would be maintained, and
unrestricted cross-country skiing would continue throughout the park
(Figure 2).
Snowshoe Walks
Guided interpretive snowshoe walks would continue (Figure 2).
However, the number and frequency of snowshoe walks could change
based on funding and public demand.
01/05/94e
6
For the foreseeable future, winter front-country recreational
vehicle parking or camping would be permitted in Rim Village in the
designated area (Figure 2). Front-country camping would not be
prevented; however, no provisions would be made to accommodate
this use.
Winter back-country camping would continue based on the
current permit system.
Reduced winter use
Alternative 2 - Reduced Winter Use Opportunities
(Figure 3)
Snowmobiling
Under this alternative, all use of mechanized snowmachines
(snowmobiles and snowcoaches) within the park would be phased
out; however, use of snowmobiles within the park for winter searchand-rescue activities would be allowed.
Cross-CountrySkiing
Same as Alternative 1; however, the road between the north
entrance and north junction could be used as an ungroomed crosscountry ski trail. This trail is shown as UC7.
Snowshoe Walks
Same as Alternative 1.
Under this alternative, no overnight winter back-country camping
would be allowed in the park. All back-country activities would be
restricted to day use only.
*12l~ Wll~llR lR
ZinckTRR
-.-
01/05/94c
_
7
3JONES &STOKES ASSOCIATES
I
I
: Boundy *SO
Tinter ;
Crater
Bald Crater
iRK
'IC
WINEM A
NATIONAL
FOREST
Oea, Butie
Sha
Pea
0a1tveed Thil
T.. be Wfte
Rogue
River
National
Forest
WINEMA
NATIONAL
FOREST
Legend
I
. nwnb~
Snornbls
No use wider tI alternativ
Ungroorned crs-country aidtals
UCi - Flim Drive
C2 - Padcic Crest Tral
U3 - Ughtning Springs Trail
UC4- PurmiceFat Truil
UCS- PavenTrd
UC6 Dutton Creok Trall
WC7.North entrenceto North Junction
Snowmhoee
db
Front country carnping
Figure 3. Alternative 2, Reduced Winter Use
*- ^Padfic Crest Trail
Other hileng Vail
Highways
:
Mnor
a- roads
Park boundaries
Expanded skiing opportunities
(Figure 4)
Snowmobiling
Provisions for use of snowmobiles and snowcoaches within the
park would remain as under existing conditions. Under this
alternative, the only snowmobile/snowcoach route in the park would
continue to be between the north entrance and North Junction
(Route SI). Snowmobile/snowcoach use would not be eliminated
under this alternative; however, no additional access would be
provided.
Cross-CountrySkiing
Under this alternative, the existing ungroomed trail network
would be maintained. Unrestricted cross-country ski use would be
allowed throughout the park. A groomed trail system would be
created at Mazama Village (Route GC1) within existing campground
roadways. The purpose of this area would be to provide a more
sheltered location for beginning cross-country skiers. The visitor
experience could be enhanced by including an interpretive component
designed to educate users about the Mazama Village area and
surrounding ecosystem. Cross-country ski instruction could be
provided if sufficient demand existed. Instruction would not be
provided by the NPS. Year-round lodging, food service, and
equipment rental at Mazama could be supported under this alternative
since greater winter visitor use in this area would increase the
demand for such services.
Snowshoe Walks
Same as Alternative 1, with the option for additional snowshoe
walks from Mazama Village.
Overnight recreational vehicle parking or camping would be
prohibited in Rim Village or Munson Valley. Facilities or spaces for
overnight RV and car camping would be provided in Mazama
Village.
The existing overnight back-country permit camping system
would be maintained. In addition, the NPS would explore
MI/05/94c
8
Legend
SnowmeObl
Si -NoM Enance lo NornhJuncor
*N
A gamad cross-courty oid was
UCI Rim Drive
UC2 - Padlic Cres Trall
Springs Trail
UCS. U3 sIng
UCri. Pumice FlatTrail
UCs - Raven Trail
UrC,. Dum Crsak Trail
*.a .s..a Grooned
A
PacdlcCrestTrel
m.111,1,Odw ikidng all
.................
aroes-curty ai tal
QCI - MamaVWsag
...
nu.....
db
Snowshoes
Front county camping
Figure 4. Alternative 3, Expanded Cross-Country Skiing
Highways
Minor roads
Parkboundaries
development of a hut-to-hut cross-country ski system within the park
to increase opportunities for winter back-country use.
Expanded skiing and
snowmobiling
Alternative 4 - Expanded Cross-CountrySkiing and
Snowmobiling (Figure 5)
Snowmobiling
In addition to the existing snowmobile/snowcoach route from the
north entrance to the North Junction (Route S1), snowmobiles would
be allowed access to the rim via Pinnacles Road (Route S2).
Snowmobiles would enter and exit the park via the former east
entrance and travel on Pinnacles Road to and from the Phantom Ship
overlook at Kerr Notch. This would provide an additional 12-mile
roundtrip route for snowmobile use in the park. A route along the
northeast portion of Rim Drive linking Pinnacles Road with the
North Junction is not proposed because of steep terrain and avalanche
hazards in the Dutton Cliffs area.
Cross-CountrySkiing
In addition to the cross-country skiing described under
Alternative 3, the NPS would explore development of a groomed trail
system on Rim Drive. Alternatively, a groomed trail could be set on
Rim Drive east to Vidae Falls (Route GC2) or Sun Notch, and
possibly west to the Lightning Springs trailhead (Route GC3) along
the Dutton Creek trail.
Snowshoe Walks
JUNk2i/UXA1)_-K WILNIrA% Ua01/05/Ne
JONES & OKES ASSO
9
S
862 ,
Legend
-
e
Snowmobiles
Si -Nt Erance l NorhJunon
S2 -Pinacles Road lo PhantomShipOvertook
croso-c
U.. 1.hwosmed
ysWV
UC -Rim Drive
UC2 - Padic Crt Trail
UC3- Ught"r SpringsTrail
UC4 -Pumice FiatTrail
UCS- RavenTrail
N
** * .
aeos-country id Vak
t--Groorned
GCI - Mezaso Vlage
GC2 - Fim Vlaeg o Sun Notch
GC3 - RHmWiaga to U~ghlr Sprn
'l'''ail
-
PadicCrestTrail
ail
h hl
O
Higways
*-.-------.--.Minorroads
Pork boun
v Ptbonae
Trailhead (Dutim Crook Trail)
5bsrorsflSnowshoas
Front mmu" carmping
-
Figure 5. Alternative 4, Expanded Cross-Country Skiing and Snowmobiling
PUBLIC COMMENT
Your written comments regarding the WUP and this document
are welcomed and are an important component of the decisionmaking process. Written comments will be accepted until
February 27, 1994. Please send all comments to:
Mr. David Morris
Superintendent
P.O. Box 7
JONES/aRATER WINTER USE
01/05/94c
10
JONES &SOKES ASSOCUAES
II
IIIII
II
I
I
I
I
As 'the nation's principal conservation agency, the Department of the Interior has responsibility for most of our
nationally owned public lands and natural and cultural resources. This includes fostering. wise use of our land
values of our
and water resources, protecting our fish-and wildlife, preserving the 'environmental 'and cultural
The
recreation.
outdoor'
through
rfe
of
enjoyment
the
for
providing
and
places,
historical
and
parks
national
the
in
is
development
their
that
ensure
to
works
department assesses our energy and mineral resources 'and
campaign
America
in
Pride
Take
the
of
goals
the
promotes
also
department
The
people.
our
all
of
best interests
by encouraging stewardship and citizen responsibility for the public lands and promoting citizen participation in
their care. The department also has a major responsibility for American Indian reservation communities and for
in island territories under U.S. administration.
people who yive
NPS D-157
United States Department of the Interior * National Park Service
Appendix E
Economic Setting and Visitor Trends
1.ECONOMIC SETTING AND VISITOR TRENDS
Exhibit I reflects the historical spending patterns per visitor at the Crater Lake concession
operations. The revenue figures were taken from Crater Lake Lodge, Inc. historic
operating levels from 1987 - 1991. The revenues were divided by the total number of
visitors to Crater Lake (supplied by the Statistical Department at the National Park
Service Denver Service Center) to yield the dollar expenditures per visitor by category.
Categories, in Exhibit I, are broken down into nine separate departments. Average 1991
spending per visitor to Crater Lake National Park, in the following categories, was $2.94
for souvenir merchandise, $1.04 for food and beverage, and $.57 for lodging. The total
1991 average spending per visitor to Crater Lake National Park was $5.99. These figures
were determined by taking the annual revenues for each department and dividing the
amounts by the total number of visitors.
Vill. LODGING FACILITY
To estimate winter use at Mazama Village we relied on interviews with key management
personnel of surrounding year-round lodges in the Crater Lake area to create a basis for
potential occupancy and rates during the winter season. Based on our comparisons we
selected three facilities within a 50 mile radius of Crater Lake that had similar attributes
to the proposed lodging in each of the proposed redevelopment alternatives. Of the
three properties identified Diamond Lake Resort was the most comparable. The main
difference between the proposed Crater Lake redevelopment and Diamond Lake resort
is that Diamond Lake resort operates the only snowcat skiing operation in the Crater
Lake area, which attracts destination skiers. The other two year-round facilities operate
between 20-25 rooms each and do not offer the extensive food and beverage service or
recreational activities that can be found at Diamond Lake Resort or the proposed Crater
Lake redevelopment.
Based on our interviews we collected the following data:
Summary of Winter Lodging Occupancy Rates
of Comparable Resorts/Motels In the Crater Lake Area
Name of
Property
Distance
from Rim
# of
Rooms
Weekend
Occupancy %
Weekday
Occupancy %
Average
Daily Rate
Village
Prospect
Historical Hotel&
38 miles
(West of
Motel
Park)
Union Creek
Resort
23 miles
(West of
22
100 %
10%
$45 - $75
23
100 %
10%
$38-$80
92
100%
Park)
Diamond Lake
Resort
25 miles
(North of
Park)
Less than 25%
$54-$135
A. Projected Occupancy Rates and Average Daily Room Rates
Based on our analysis of the existing lodging supply and potential demand in the Crater
Lake area, estimates of expected normal growth in demand for rooms, and allowing for
a hotel's potential for generating greater demand through special marketing efforts and
taking advantage of special attractions of Crater Lake to be recognized, we estimate the
following occupancy levels and average daily room rates for each alternative lodging
component.
Mazama Village Hotel
5 Year Occupancy and Average Room Rates
Winter-Season
Year
*
Winter Season
Occupancy
Rate
Winter Season
Average Daily
Rate *
1998
20%
$64
1999
30%
$66
2000
40%
$68
2001
40%
$70
2002
40%
$72
Average daily room rates are inflated by 3% compounded annually and rounded to the
nearest dollar.
We expect the Mazama Village occupancy rate, for the 1998-1999 winter season, to be
approximately 20% with average daily room rates at $64. We anticipate a gradual build
in winter occupancy of ten percentage points per year until the third year when the
occupancy will stabilize at 40%. This occupancy level is consistent with the similar
winter facilities in the Crater Lake Area.
To estimate the additional revenues that would be generated by overnight visitors, we
addressed each expenditure category separately. Since hotel guest typically spend
more than day visitors on food, beverage and liquor, we applied the estimates provided
by the University of Oregon's, Community Planning Workshop for these expenditures.
For other goods and services, we applied the average expenditures per visitor
experienced in the park. For all expenditure categories, we inflated to 1998 dollars.
2
EXHIBIT I
CRATER LAKE LODGE, INC.
HISTORICAL REVENUE PER VISIT
Revenue Categor
Food
# of Visitors
Year
S526
$*s Ne Visitor
Sales
Merchandise
$'s Per Visitor
Sales
;ifLodgi.:::g
$'s Per Visito '$08
Sales
Service Station
$'s Per Visitor
Sales.
iP.Transportation
.
$s Per- iVisitor
Sales
Campground
$'s Per Visitor
;:;};
Sale's
:
-;.Liquor
..
$'s Per Visi or
..
Sales
Camper Store
$'s Per Visitor
i-2
Other
............
TOTAL
*
-
; $,
468,994
1988*
8245
492,581
1987
5
$1.07
1,069,563
$2.17
366,787
- : ..
124,299
$0.25
115,2570
$02
86,595
$0.18
67,835 .
$.14
86,152
$0.17
pSales
8,-
Per Visitor...$0.02
2,452,443
Sales
$4.98
$'s Per Visitor
.
1,205,023
$2.57
384,514
164,441
$0.35
136,465
$029,
100,515
$0.21
.
$0.02
2,715,839
$5.79
1
$00
112,574
$0.25
$002$00
2,384,948
$5.24
Source: Sales - Crater Lake Lodge, Inc Annual Financial Reports; Visitor Counts - National Park Service
* Historic Lodge closed in May 1988
I
$tO~4.
1,383,454
$3.05
280,24
$0.62
187,433
$0.41
167,32
$3
113,315
$0.25
37,567
68,54
$0.15
90,542
$0.19
75941
454,253
1990
454,737
1989
4.17
.
092
$A1
1,274,884
$2.80
1.62,70
--..
$0.36
185,998
$0.41
88,945
$0.20
95,738
$0.21
38,64
$0,
108,534
$0.24
525,441
1991
$
1,544,955
$2.94
003
$0.57
155,343
$0.30
$03
174,953
$0.33
-49,343
:
177,629
$0.34
760
$0.02
2,740,960
$6.03
3,148,441
$5.99
Average Annual
Increase
.7%
.
0.55%
8.9%
7.08%
-3:%
..
-4.57%
5.0%
3.43%
12.9%
10.80%
20.4%
17.88%
-6:36
21.2%
18.66%
-286
5.7%
4.07%1
EXHIBIT II
SALES ESTIMATE
MAZAMA VILLAGE
WINTER SEASON
PERIOD: October 16,1998 - May 14,1999
Number of Rooms:
Average Number of People Per Room:
Estimated Average Daily Rate (1993 Dollars):
Estimated Average Daily Rate (1998 Dollars):
40
2.4
$55
$64
1998 Monthly Room Sales Estimate:
Occupancy Percentage:
Number of Nights Per Period:
Occupied Rooms Per Month:
Average Daily Rate:
Estimated Revenues
Total Number of Guest Nights:
October
20%
November
20%
December
20%
15
30
120
$64
January
20%
February
20%
31
31
28
240
248
248
224242812
$7,649
$64
$64
$15,299
$15,809
$64
$15,809
$64
$14,279
288
$15,809
576
$15,809
595
595
538
595
595
March
Mav
April
20%
31
20%
.
Total
20%
..
31
N/A
14 21
i
,8
$64__64
_
64
$7,139
269-
$107,602
4,051
Total Revenues
1998 Monthly Food & Uquor Sales Estimate from Hotel Guests:
October
Spending/Guest for Food: *
Spending/Guest for Liquor: *
Estimated Food Sales
Estimated Liquor Sales
288
$19.35
$1.19
$5,572
$344
v
November
576
$19.35
$1.19
$118744
$687
December
Januarv
Februarv
Marc-h
Anril
T-f.1
U..
595
$19.35
$1.19
595
$19.35
$1.19
538
$19.35
$1.19
595
$19.35
$1.19
__Apl....__
595
$19.35
$1.19
269
$19.35
$119
$11,516
$11,516
$10,401
$11,516
$710
$11,516
$710
$5201
$710
$710
$321
$64
4,051
N/A .
N/A
$,8382
$4,833
* Source: University of Oregon, Community Planning Workshop, 1991, Estimated Revenue
Per Visit for Destination Visitors, Medium Visitor Spending (expressed in 1998 Dollars)
1998 Monthly Additional Sales Estimate from Hotel Guests:** (Does not include Campground Facilities and Store)
Spending/Guest for Merchandise
Spending/Guest for Service Station:
Spending/Guest for Transportation:
Spending/Guest for Other:
Estimated Merchandise Sales:
Estimated Service Station Sales:
Estimated Transportation Sales:
Estimated Other Sales:
October
288
$3.62
$0.37
$0.44
$0.02
$1,041
$106
$128
$7
November
576
$3.62
$0.37
$0.44
$0.02
$2,083
$213
December
595
$3.62
$0.37
$0.44
$0.02
$2,152
$220
$255
$264
$15
$14
January
February
March
Mav
Anrial
595
$3.62
$0.37
$0.44
$0.02
$2,152
$220
538
$3.62
$0.37
$0.44
$0.02
$1,944
$198
595
$3.62
$0.37
$0.44
$0.02
$2,152
$220
595
$3.62
$0.37
$0.44
$0.02
$2,152
$220
$264
$15
$238
$13
$264
$15
$264
*
** Source: Crater Lake Lodge, Inc., 1991 Annual Financial Report (See Exhibit IlIl, expressed in 1998 dollars)
$15
Total
269
$3.62
$0.37
$0.44
$0.02
$972
$99
$119.
$71
4,051
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
$14650
$1,495
$1,794
$100
Appendix F
FONSI: Finding of No Significant Impact
FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT/DECISION NOTICE
Project Name:
Winter Use Plan and Environmental Assessment
Park:
PROJECT DESCRIPTION. The attached Environmental Assessment (EA) evaluates
potential environmental impacts associated with implementation of the Crater
Lake National Park Winter Use Plan. Four winter use plan alternatives were
evaluated. Alternatives are defined as follows:
-
Alternative
Alternative
Alternative
Alternative
1
2
3
4
-
Preferred Alternative
Reduced Winter Use
Expanded Cross Country Skiing, and
Expanded Snowmobiling and Cross Country Skiing
Under Alternative 1, the types of winter use activities and where these
activities occur within the park, with the exception of frontcountry camping,
would not change from existing conditions. Frontcountry camping would be
prohibited within the park during the winter season under this plan.
Implementation of the winter use plan will not affect cultural resources as
winter use activities will not occur in areas where such resources are known
to exist or require construction of facilities that may impact areas where
cultural resources may exist. There is no evidence that existing winter use
activities affect air quality, wildlife habitat or water resources in the park
or on surrounding US Forest Service land. In addition, no activities will
occur on wetlands or within floodplains. No threatened or endangered species
will be affected.
At the present time, there is no evidence indicating that existing winter use
activities would adversely affect the environment. Because the winter use
plan would not substantially change the types of existing activities, no
significant adverse environmental impacts resulting from plan implementation
can be identified.
The plan is in compliance with requirements of the National
COMPLIANCE.
Historic Preservation Act, Endangered Species Act, Clean Air Act and Clean
In addition, the plan is consistent with Executive Orders
Water Act.
regarding floodplains and wetlands.
PUBLIC REVIEW. The draft winter use plan and environmental assessment was
sent to approximately 400 citizens and agency personnel in April, 1994. The
official comment period was 45 days; however, comment letters were accepted
for approximately 60 days. A total of 257 written comment letters were
received. Comments focused primarily on the winter use plan alternatives with
respondents supporting one or more alternatives. Those comments related to
the EA addressed wildlife and water quality issues. The draft winter use plan
and EA were modified in response to those comments. There was a moderate
degree of controversy over the plan which centered on proposals by snowmobile
groups and individuals to expand snowmobiling within the park. Conversely,
cross country ski organizations and individuals favored status quo or
eliminating snowmobiles from the park.
FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT.
Based on the analysis of potential
environmental impacts contained in the attached environmental assessment, I
have determined that implementation of the Winter Use Plan does not constitute
a major Federal action significantly affecting the quality of the human
environment.
Therefore, an environmental impact statement will not be
prepared.
DECISION. It is my decision to implement the Winter Use Plan described in
Alternative 1 of the EA. The approved Winter Use Plan establishes a balance
among snow machine use, cross country skiing and snowshoeing while providing
for protection of park resources. All user groups are allowed access to
Crater Lake under the winter use plan, while preserving the quiet and solitude
of the park's backcountry.
Recommended:
Superintendent
Date
Approved:
Regional Dire or
Pacific Northwest Region
DA6 - '(
/'-s"
" ---
As the nation's principal conservation agency, the Department of the Interior has responsibility for most of our
nationally owned public lands and natural and cultural resources. This includes fostering wise use of our land
and water resources, protecting our fish and wildlife, preserving the environmental and cultural values of our
national parks and historical places, and providing for the enjoyment of life through outdoor recreation. The
department assesses our energy and mineral resources and works to ensure that their development is in the
best interests of all our people. The department also promotes the goals of the Take Pride in America campaign
by encouraging stewardship and citizen responsibility for the public lands and promoting citizen participation in
their care. The department also has a major responsibility for American Indian reservation communities and for
people who live in island territories under U.S. administration.
NPS D-35

CRATER LAKE

Transcription

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