| Table of Contents | Appendix A | Appendix B | Appendix C | Appendix D | Appendix E | Appendix F | Appendix G |
| Appendix H | Appendix I | Appendix J | Appendix K | Appendix L | Appendix M | Appendix N |

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Appendix H — Considering Cumulative Effects

Introduction

The Council on Environmental Quality’s regulations for implementing the National Environmental Policy Act defines cumulative effects as:

the impact on the environment which results from the incremental impact of the action when added to other past, present and reasonably foreseeable future actions regardless of what agency (Federal or non-federal) or person undertakes such actions. (40 CFR § 1508.7)

The following is a scenario of projects that may have potential cumulative impact when considered along with actions called for in the Final Yosemite Valley Plan/SEIS. The purpose of this scenario is to evaluate (1) whether the resources, ecosystems, and human communities have already been affected by past or present activities, and (2) whether other agencies or the public have plans that may affect resources in the future.

The Affected Region

This list of projects was developed through an iterative process with individuals, groups, and agency officials and attempts to include major projects within the affected environment relative to each impact topic. The region of evaluation was established based upon an observation of natural boundaries, the recognition of potential ecological relationships to Yosemite National Park, and with a general understanding of the common issues to be addressed in the impact analysis. However, overall the descriptions of the projects listed below were provided by those contacted.

In addition to considering other past, present, and reasonably foreseeable projects from within Yosemite National Park, the region of analysis included surrounding counties as follows.

National Park Sevvice planners evaluated each project listed from the perspective of the individual characteristics of each impact topic. Analysis of potential cumulative impacts was specific to those projects that may have a compounding effect when considered with the actions of each alternative.

Cumulative Impact Scenario

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Agency: California State Department of Transportation; U.S. Department of Transportation; Mariposa County; Merced County Association of Governments; Mono County; National Park Service — Yosemite National Park; U.S. Forest Service — Sierra National Forest and Inyo National Forest

Project Name: Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS)

Description: YARTS is a collaborative, inter-agency effort begun in 1992 to evaluate the feasibility of a regional transportation system and to identify the best options for initial implementation and upkeep of such a system. YARTS is a Joint Powers Authority under California law and the National Park Service is an ex-officio partner of the JPA Commission, participating in all discussions but not as a voting member. The YARTS mission statement is as follows:

YARTS will provide a positive alternative choice for access to Yosemite National Park for visitors, employees, and residents. YARTS service is not intended to replace auto-access or trans-Sierra travel, but is intended to provide a viable alternative that offers a positive experience, maximizing comfort and convenience for riders while guaranteeing access into the park. (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation Strategy 1999:4)

YARTS has four primary objectives:

The target market for YARTS service includes those visitors staying overnight in the gateway communities and Yosemite National Park employees who live in the gateway communities. Decisions on the placement of bus stops and transfer facilities are local land-use decisions that will be made by the County Board of Supervisors in gateway communities, and by the National Park Service for locations inside the park boundaries. YARTS staging areas outside the park are undergoing a region-wide NEPA/CEQA process and will likely be a part of a region-wide shuttle bus system.

A two-year demonstration service will test the YARTS concept. Implementation of the demonstration service occurred in May 2000 and the service is scheduled to operate until May 2002, with most service offered in the summer months.

One component of the YARTS effort to date includes bus stop improvements. On the Highway 140 corridor, eleven stops in each direction were approved, including stops in El Portal, Midpines, Mariposa, Cathey’s Valley, and Merced. The project also includes approved stops in Mono County. Twelve to fifteen stops are currently approved and in use in Yosemite National Park. Three are approved and in use in the El Portal Administrative Site. Only minor safety improvements have occurred at the El Portal sites.

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Agency Name: American Indian Council of Mariposa County, Inc. (Southern Sierra Miwok)

Project Name: Indian Cultural Center

Description: An Indian Cultural Center would be established by the American Indian Council of Mariposa County, Inc. (Southern Sierra Miwok) at the site of the last-occupied Indian village in Yosemite Valley (west of Camp 4 [Sunnyside Campground]). This center would provide a location for culturally associated Indian people to conduct traditional ceremonies and to practice and teach techniques of traditional lifeways. While the center would be open to the public, access might be limited during special ceremonies. Some public interpretation would occur, but this cultural center would not replace the primary educational function of the current Indian Village of Ahwahnee at Yosemite Village.

Facilities at the Indian Cultural Center would consist of structures and landscape features typical of an Indian village from the mid- to late-19th century. One large, partly subterranean ceremonial roundhouse and a smaller sweatlodge would be constructed. Approximately 15 cedar bark umachas (conical houses) would be built in the vicinity of the roundhouse and sweatlodge. Plants important for food, basketry, and medicinal uses may be grown. Existing archeological features, such as mortar rocks, would remain in place and be incorporated into the village design. The last extant structure from the original village, a small cabin (the former Westley and Alice Wilson home) currently being used as a National Park Service office, would be moved back to the village and adaptively reused as the cultural center office. A new kitchen and restroom facility would be constructed. Utilities (water, sewer, propane, unimproved road access, and electrical service) would be provided. Screening would be established where necessary to visually separate the cultural center and Northside Drive, Yosemite Lodge, Camp 4 (Sunnyside Campground), and the Valley Loop Trail. The Valley Loop Trail could be relocated to a route south of the cultural center to minimize intrusions. Overnight parking for scheduled activities would be provided at the Indian Cultural Center or other administrative areas.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Bridalveil Horse Camp Rehabilitation

Description: This site was identified as a high priority for campground improvement in the park based on severe resource impacts due to soil loss, specifically erosion from failing roads, stock trails, social trails, and deteriorating stock campsites. Planned work includes arresting potential water pollution from stock campsites and rehabilitation of the gravel campground loop road.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Discovery View Scenic Overlook Vault Toilet Installation

Description: This project proposes to install a vault toilet at the Discovery View scenic overlook in Yosemite Valley. Work will include purchasing a four-unit manufactured concrete vault toilet structure; excavating the vault site; and assembling of the restroom on site.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: El Portal Road Improvement Project

Description: This federal jurisdiction transportation project, which is entirely within the National Park Service’s jurisdiction, involves the reconstruction of 7.5 miles of the El Portal Road (Segments A, B, and C) from the Yosemite National Park boundary in El Portal to Cascades Diversion Dam near the intersection of El Portal Road and Big Oak Flat Road. The project will improve access to Yosemite Valley and reduce safety concerns. The El Portal Road is a primary route for visitors accessing Yosemite Valley, and is the shortest all-weather route to the Valley. It also serves as the primary commuting route for park employees living in El Portal, Midpines, and Mariposa.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: El Portal, Trailer Village Closure

Description: The project calls for continuing to implement the actions described in the 1993 Trailer Village Closure Policy. Due to flood related risks all existing trailers would be removed from the site. The houses at Abbieville would not be effected. As a part of the closure process, the National Park Service would need to comply with the provisions of the Uniform Relocation Act of 1970, and on a case by case basis evaluate individual eligibiligy for housing and moving benefits.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Fire Management Plan Update

Description: The National Park Service is updating the 1990 Yosemite National Park Fire Management Plan. The objectives associated with updating the plan are to improve ecosystem health, enhance public safety, and provide guidance to park operations for successfully integrating fire with other vegetation management principles. The plan will address prescribed fire, wildland fire, and community fire protection services. It is also expected to address parkwide fire issues and consider effects to burn units, vegetation associations, air resources, watersheds, soils, cultural landscapes, and other natural, cultural, and social resource variables.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Happy Isles to Vernal Falls Trail Reconstruction

Description: This project proposes to reconstruct 5,400 linear feet of the Vernal Fall Trail from Happy Isles to the base of the Mist Trail stairs. Actions include construction of an average tread width of seven feet; rebuilding of trail walls; redistribution of old pavement as sub-base; and application of layers of aggregate road base, tack oil, and asphalt, with a granite dust topcoat. On steeper sections of the trail, improved traction will be provided for pedestrians. A functioning drainage system will be established in the trail corridor by paving water breaks and constructing rock drainages to channel water away from the trail.

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Agency Name: National Park Service/City and County of San Francisco

Project Name: Hetch Hetchy Road Reconstruction

Description: To maintain administrative and visitor access to O’Shaughnessy Dam, the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir and other associated areas, the National Park Service (NPS) in 1999 and 2000 improved 8.6 miles of the Hetch Hetchy Road in Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne County, California. This included:

The action stabilized the roadway, decreased annual maintenance requirements, reduced the likelihood of future road closures associated with flood events, improved the safety of the road, and helped ensure a safe and reliable water supply for the City and County of San Francisco.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Hodgdon Meadow Campground Rehabilitation

Description: This project was identified as a priority for campground infrastructure improvement to mitigate impacts to resources.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Hodgdon Meadow Water and Wastewater Treatment Improvement

Description: Hodgdon Meadow is located at an elevation of 4,575 feet. During peak summer usage, water and wastewater must be provided for 70 residents, up to 440 campers (130 campsites with two restrooms), and up to 5,000 visitors per day who use the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station facilities. Improvements are required to meet state and federal regulations regarding public health and safety and to protect the natural environment.

Improvements to the water system will include: providing an additional water source, improving disinfection, increasing water storage capacity, improving water system controls, replacing asbestos cement pipe, equalizing system pressure, and constructing a dedicated line from treatment to storage. Improvements to the wastewater system will include: improving solids handling and effluent quality, improving the disinfection system, constructing primary and secondary treatment facilities, improving the spray field, replacing the leach field, and replacing the septic tank.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Merced River at Eagle Creek Ecological Restoration

Description: The National Park Service proposes to mitigate human-caused impacts to the riverbank and floodplain at the confluence of Eagle Creek and the Merced River in Yosemite Valley. Actions proposed in the project include: removal of an undetermined amount of abandoned park infrastructure including a sewer line and manhole; revegetation of the damaged riverbank using brush-layering, seeding, and mulching techniques; construction of a temporary fence to guide visitor activities to resilient areas; and elimination of a road shoulder used for parking.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan

Description: In 1999 and 2000, the National Park Service developed a comprehensive management plan for sections of the Merced Wild and Scenic River that it administers. The purpose of the Merced River Plan would be to protect and enhance the river’s Outstandingly Remarkable Values for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.

The final plan and environmental impact statement was released to the public in July 2000; the planning process was completed in August 2000, with the signing of the Record of Decision. Included in the plan are descriptions of the boundaries, the official classification of river segments, and a description of the Outstandingly Remarkable Values associated with the Merced River. The Merced River Plan’s land-use zoning prescriptions have served as a guide to protect river values during the Yosemite Valley Plan process, and have thereby directed the type of potential development and potential levels of use allowed within the river corridor in Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and El Portal.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Protection of Giant Sequoias at Mariposa Grove

Description: This project proposes to protect the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoia trees by mitigating impacts caused by human activities. Work will include construction of a quarter-mile of boardwalks in areas where soils have been compacted and sequoia roots have been damaged; restoration of natural drainage patterns by re-routing a quarter-mile of trails to more appropriate sites; control of invasive non-native plant species; and evaluation of the preservation efforts through a monitoring program. This project is identified as priority 9 in the approved Resource Management Plan (Project Statement number YOSE-N-305.000).

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Red Peak Pass Trail Rehabilitation

Description: This project proposes to reconstruct the trail from Red Peak Pass to the Triple Peak Fork of the Merced River. Work will include extensive construction of rock retaining wall, rip-rap tread, water breaks, terrace steps, and meadow restoration.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Rehabilitation of Tuolumne Grove Trailhead Parking

Description: This project would redesign and pave the existing Tuolumne Grove dirt trailhead parking area to accommodate automobile, buses and/or recreation vehicles for summer and winter use. It would include preparation of preliminary design plans, environmental compliance documents, construction drawings, and bid documents. Construction projects include: vault toilets; installation of signs for improved way-finding; development of a picnic area; revegetation of cut slopes; visual screening of the trailhead area from Tioga Road; and providing for accessibility for visitators with disabilities.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Replacement/Rehabilitation of Yosemite Valley Main Sewer Line

Description: This project consists of slip lining the sewer between Yosemite Lodge lift station and the El Capitan wood yard and also includes the selective replacement of manholes.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Mariposa Grove Roadway Improvement and Giant Sequoia Restoration

Description: The National Park Service is considering alternatives for restoring giant sequoia habitat in the Lower Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias in Yosemite National Park by relocating the existing parking to the South Entrance area. It is expected that water drainage improvements will be made to the Mariposa Grove Road and that the existing water supply line would then be relocated into the road corridor. At the South Entrance area, the roadway would have minor realignments to address roadway safety problems, requiring the relocation of the park’s South Entrance Station.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: South Fork Merced River Bridge Replacement

Description: The existing flood-damaged and temporary replacement South Fork Merced River Bridge will be replaced with a single-span structure.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Tamarack Campground Rehabilitation

Description: This campground was identified as the highest priority for campground improvement based on severe resource impacts due to soil loss, specifically erosion from failing roads, trails, social trails, and deteriorating campsites. Much of the eroded soil is being deposited in a fragile creek. Planned work includes rehabilitation of the campground loop, relocation of ten campsites off Tamarack Creek, revegetation of the stream bank, and provision of additional campsites where possible within camp boundaries.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Tuolumne Meadows Development Concept Plan

Description: The draft planning objectives of this document include the following:

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Tuolumne Meadows Water and Wastewater Improvements

Description: The original objective of these improvements was to halt surface water diversion from the seasonally unpredictable and unprotected Dana Fork, and to develop a water supply from reliable and protected ground water sources. However, hydrogeological evaluations have found no aquifer capable of providing an adequate water supply. The park is steering toward using an infiltration gallery to collect water directly from the main stem of the Tuolumne River. The collection site would be placed under the Tioga Road Bridge that crosses the main stem of the Tuolumne River near Lembert Dome.

Also, this project would include design and construction to improve process efficiency of the Tuolumne Meadows water and wastewater treatment facilities, which currently impose grave risks to the environment and threats to public health. Tuolumne Meadows is the largest sub alpine meadow in the Sierra Nevada; the meadow is fragile, with a short growing season, where recovery from resource damage can take years to accomplish. The treatment facilities, located at an elevation of 8,575 feet, support approximately 5,000 park visitors and 200 park staff daily from May through October. Facilities served include a 304-site campground, a visitor center, a retail sales/service station, a 104-bed lodge, food service and grocery facility, and employee housing.

Work will include construction of a new wastewater treatment plant, modification of an existing pump station to transport raw sewage to the new plant location, elimination of sewage lagoons, and demolition of the existing plant. The new facility will include extended aeration, a covered 860,000-gallon effluent storage tank, sludge-handling capabilities, and an expanded sprayfield. The water line and electric service will be extended one mile to the new plant location and the access road will be improved. A 150,000-gallon water storage tank will be constructed. All work will be performed through contracts.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Tuolumne Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan

Description: In 1984, the Tuolumne River was designated a Wild and Scenic River. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act requires that managing agencies develop a comprehensive management plan for Wild and Scenic Rivers that flow in their jurisdiction. The draft planning objectives of this document include the following:

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Wawona, Seventh Day Adventist Parcel Land Exchange

Description: The park has been involved in land exchange negotiations with the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Recreational Camp, located in Wawona. SDA is owner of a parcel of land adjacent to the park boundary and designated Wilderness. Current land use impacts adjacent Wilderness lands. The parcel desired by the National Park Service would be exchanged for park land adjacent to the lower portion of the existing SDA parcel, but away from the Wilderness boundary.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Wawona Campground Rehabilitation

Description: The purpose of this project is to implement the General Management Plan goal to rehabilitate the Wawona Campground. Preliminary design plan, construction drawings, and bid documents will include the following actions: a) rehabilitate the campground entrance and loop road and individual campsite spurs, b) retrofit campsites and restrooms to meet accessibility standards, c) install low-flow toilet, replace toilet partitions, repaint, install energy efficient lights and heat, replace composition roofs with metal, and insulate and winterize the restrooms in loop A and B, d) construct showers e) replace exterior privacy partitions, f) reconstruct the amphitheater, g) remove septic tanks and leach fields, h) extend sewer, electrical service, and telephone 1.5 miles, i) replace existing signs with the new park sign system, and j) prepare a vegetation management plan which includes shoreline protection and reestablishes privacy and shade in the campground.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: White Wolf Water System Improvements

Description: The National Park Service proposes to design and construct upgrades to correct treatment process deficiency and capacity for the White Wolf water distribution, collection, and treatment facilities. The project includes the development of a new underground state-approved water source; the construction of a new state approved treatment facility, and the replacement of approximately 9,200 linear feet of water supply and distribution piping. The project would provide remote supervisory control and data acquisition of SCADA water treatment and improve vehicular and pedestrian access to the water treatment facility in an attempt to minimize existing safety concerns. Once the project is complete, emphasis will be focused on the restoration and revegetation of all disturbed areas.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Wilderness Management Plan Update

Description: The National Park Service is updating the 1989 Yosemite National Park Wilderness Management Plan. The objective of updating the plan is to provide guidance to park operations for the successful management of Yosemite’s designated Wilderness, which comprises over 95% of the park. The plan will address land management issues within the wilderness including visitor use, vegetation associations, air resources, noise issues, watersheds, soils, cultural landscapes, and other natural, cultural, and social resource variables. The plan update would also address the use of the five High Sierra Camps in Yosemite National Park.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Yosemite Creek Campground Restoration

Description: This campground was identified as the second highest priority for campground improvement in the park based on severe resource impacts due to soil loss, specifically erosion from failing roads, trails, social trails, and deteriorating campsites. Much of the eroded soil is being deposited in a fragile creek. Planned work includes rehabilitation of the campground loop, relocation of eight campsites off Yosemite Creek, revegetation of the stream bank, and the addition of campsites where possible within camp boundaries.

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Agency Name: National Park Service, Yosemite Institute

Project Name: Yosemite Institute, Crane Flat Campus Improvement

Project Description: This project proposes an educational center at Crane Flat that would enable Yosemite Institute to provide educational and interpretive programs about the park’s compelling stories. Facilities would be operated by Yosemite Institute, and accommodate Yosemite Institute groups and park partner interpretive and educational programs, training programs, research and field seminars. The campus design and function would model sustainable energy and resource practices, and would meet accessibility standards. Existing facilities include dormitories, a shower house with bathrooms, kitchen and dining areas, field equipment storage, offices, staff housing, and indoor and outdoor spaces for meetings, training, instruction, and evening and campfire programs. Among the expanded facilities would be a science lab with hands-on study collections of common Sierra plants and vertebrates, and dissecting scopes.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Yosemite Valley Shuttle Bus Stop Improvements

Description: This project consists of the preparation of preliminary design plans, environmental compliance documents, and construction drawings; and the construction of six 10 ´ 80 foot concrete braking pads, and the rehabilitation or replacement of 94,000 square feet of asphalt road approaches.

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Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange

Description: The park has been involved in land exchange negotiations with Yosemite Motels, Inc., owners of a parcel of land adjacent to the park boundary. The parcel desired by the National Park Service would be exchanged for park land directly downstream of the existing Yosemite Motels, Inc. development, between California Highway 140 and the Merced River, upstream of the confluence with Crane Creek. This parcel would accommodate a new entrance station complex and provide space for other needs. Yosemite Motels, Inc. would use exchanged park lands for construction of motel units, parking lots, a public trail system, and nature/river interpretive study areas.

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Agency Name: National Park Service, State of California

Project Name: Sierra Nevada Research Institute — University of California, Merced

Description: The Sierra Nevada Research Institute facilities are being considered near or in both Yosemite and Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Parks. To serve Yosemite National Park, the potential project locations under consideration are Hazel Green Ranch and Wawona. At Hazel Green Ranch, the project would consist of a new facility that would include a research laboratory, operational and residential space for researchers, and a small student dormitory. At Wawona, the project would consist of providing similar facilities by adaptively using existing buildings located in the Wawona area.

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Agency Name: Hetch Hetchy Water and Power, City and County of San Francisco

Project Name: O’Shaughnessy Compound Water System Improvements

Description: The O’Shaughnessy Dam/Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is located in the northwestern portion of Yosemite National Park. The purpose of this project is to repair and replace the piping and appurtenances of the domestic water system for the O’Shaughnessy Dam Compound. During construction there will be reduced access to some portions of the compound and visitor facilities. Excavation and other construction activities may uncover artifacts from the O’Shaughnessy Dam construction period (1915-1938).

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Agency Name: Hetch Hetchy Water and Power, City and County of San Francisco

Project Name: O’Shaughnessy Dam Well

Description: The dam outlet facilities will be modified to allow outlets to be used at more than one elevation for diverting water to the Canyon Tunnel. The feasibility of alternative conceptual designs is currently being evaluated.

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Agency Name: Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau, Madera County

Project Name: Winter Recreation Feasibility Study

Description: The Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau has applied for funding for an Eastern Madera County Winter Recreation Feasibility Study to define the potential or lack of potential for winter recreation opportunities in Eastern Madera and the surrounding area. This would be accomplished through a market research study to identify: (1) if there is an interest in winter recreation opportunities, (2) whether this would lend itself to an anticipated winter visitation, (3) obtaining feedback from existing U.S. Forest Service recreation business permit holders for the purpose of identifying better levels of service to the general public from these recreation providers, and (4) preparation of an implementation plan which relates the demand and the potential for obtaining funding and in-kind services to support recommendations, if any, from the analyses.

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Agency Name: Madera County

Project Name: Highway 41 Extension

Description: Highway 41 is a two-lane highway extending in a north/south direction through eastern Madera County from the Fresno County Line to the Mariposa County Line. It provides access to Yosemite National Park and the recreational areas of the east county.

The Madera County Area Regional Transportation Plan (November 1994) lists the following planned improvements for Highway 41:

Note: Projects are listed according to their proximity to Yosemite National Park.

The first two project improvements are located immediately outside of Fresno, California, approximately 50 miles south of the park, and the last project improvement is located approximately 8 to 10 miles from the park.

The "Fresno County Line to Avenue 11" and the "Avenue 11 to Avenue 12" improvements are the most likely to occur in the near future. The others, with the exception of resurfacing work for the "Ranger Station to Cedar Valley Road," which has already been completed, probably will not occur until at least 2015. The "Coarsegold Creek Bridge to Marava" project involves very minor safety improvements.

Highway 41 improvements are expected to relieve existing congestion problems, but it is not anticipated that they will affect traffic counts near the park. According to Bob Stone, Executive Director of the Madera County Transportation Commission, Highway 41 traffic counts are 30,000 trips per day at the county line and 3,000 trips per day at the Yosemite National Park gate.

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Agency Name: Madera County

Project Name: Rio Mesa Area Plan

Description: This area plan encompasses approximately 15,000 acres on the east side of Highway 41, between the San Joaquin River and Highway 145. Construction of approximately 29,000 dwelling units is expected over 100 years. The elevation of the project area is almost 500 feet and lower on flat valley land. This project has an approved area plan that at this stage is conceptual. The next step would require the property owners to work together to develop sub-area plans. No estimates can be made at this time regarding the number of units to be constructed in the next 15 to 20 years. Several different property owners are involved in this project and a timeline for progression to the next tier of planning is difficult to estimate.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Expansion of County Transit System

Description: Mariposa County plans to use federal funds matched with the local Transportation Fund dollars for bus purchases to meet the needs of the Mariposa County Transit System. Plans are to purchase four new buses that will be used to replace existing buses. As part of this project, service has been expanded from Coulterville and Greeley Hill to Mariposa, adding one trip per week. County transit system service would potentially be merged with the Yosemite Area Regional Transit System when YARTS is implemented.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Hazel Green Ranch

Description: Hazel Green Ranch is a privately owned piece of land abutting the western boundary of the park. The owner of Hazel Green Ranch has proposed to develop an eco-tourism project including approximately 250 guest rooms as single, double, and quad hard-sided cabins as well as 50 summer tent cabins. Food service, merchandise sales, and a University of California research station (see Sierra Nevada Research Institute) are also under consideration. Meadow preservation would be a focus for the property. Circulation and access in the resort area would be designed to emphasize a pedestrian environment with raised walkway providing much of the circulation. Facilities and activities would be provided for year-round recreation. Parking would be provided along the perimeter of the resort, adjacent to the area proposed for use as a transit center, parking area, and visitor contact facility (see Out-of Valley Transit Facilities, under Alternative 2)

Because of the potential development of a 200-meter public access road (see Alternative 2) across park lands to a transit center, parking area, and visitor contact station located on Hazel Green Ranch, the National Park Service is concerned about the potential for uncontrolled growth on this property and along the park boundary. To remedy these concerns, the landowner has agreed to put a deed restriction on the Hazel Green property, limiting development to 300 lodging units should the road, parking, and transit elements of the project move forward.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Incline Road Reconstruction, Foresta Road Bridge to South Fork

Project Description: During the flood of January 1997, Incline Road sustained substantial damage. The objective of this project was to reconstruct the roadway to pre flood conditions from Foresta Bridge to a point near the Merced River/South Fork Merced River confluence. The project consisted of reconstructing the roadway by reinforcing the fill and resurfacing with both road base and asphalt. The project was completed in June 2000.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Mariposa County General Plan Update

Description: The Mariposa County General Plan will update county wide zoning ordinances and related implementing documents. This update is intended to allow Mariposa County to comply with current California law. Specifically, it is intended that this would allow Mariposa County to comply with changes to state law that have changed since the 1980 General Plan was adopted. This update will follow established public involvement protocol and may respond to county wide land-use issues.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Mariposa Creek Pedestrian/Bike Path

Description: This pedestrian/bike path will eventually traverse the town of Mariposa for 3.5 miles from Highway 49 north, to the Mariposa County fairgrounds, two miles south of the Highway 140/49 intersection. The bike/pedestrian path will eventually add other routes and could serve local commuters when complete. Currently, the county is beginning construction of a three block section located in the center of the town of Mariposa. Estimated project completion is approximately ten years, depending on funding availability.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Recreation Master Plan

Description: This plan, now in the early planning stage, is intended to address county wide recreational opportunities, facilities, and strategies.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Road Improvement and Circulation Policy

Description: This project will establish access standards for subdivisions and other developments; will establish State of California Fire Safety Standards, define a county grading ordinance and establish county-wide road improvement standards.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Road Realignment and Bridge Replacement of Highway 49 and Old Highway

Description: The intersection, currently located south of the community of Mariposa, would be relocated closer to Mariposa, with other lane and bridge improvements included. The purpose of the project is to eliminate safety concerns. Construction activities are scheduled to begin in the year 2003 and are expected to extend into multiple planning cycles due to the relatively high cost of the project and the timing of various project components.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Silvertip Resort Village Project

Description: Located within the community of Fish Camp in southern Mariposa County, the proposed development includes a 137-room hotel, 40 cabins, conference facilities, an exterior swimming pool, three decorative ponds, an on-site wastewater disposal system, and 359 parking spaces, as well as roadway, pathway, and utility line extensions.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Wawona Town Planning Area Specific Plan Update

Description: This project is intended to update the 1987 Wawona Town Plan. The current planning objectives include amendment to and/or revision of Wawona Town Zoning Ordinances to address current nonconforming uses, to make the plan more reflective of other existing development, to provide for minimal community growth, and seek to establish a formal process for National Park Service involvement in town planning.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Yosemite Motels Expansion

Description: This project site is located along the north and south sides of Highway 140 at the existing Yosemite View Lodge development, within the El Portal Town Planning Area. Permitting has been requested to construct a 78-unit motel and a multi-purpose chapel/recreation building. Proposed access to the 78-unit motel and multi-purpose chapel/recreation building would be from the north side of Highway 140. Permitting has also been requested for the construction of a 63-unit, 3-story motel building and associated parking near the existing Yosemite View Lodge. Access to this 63-unit building would be from the south side of Highway 140.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Yosemite West Re-zoning for 55 acres

Description: This project would call for the re-zoning of a 55 acre parcel in the Yosemite West area to allow for the development of: employee housing, visitor parking, National Park Service and concessioner operating facilities, regional commercial and office service facilities and a hotel complex.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Yosemite West, Rezone — Transient Rental Overlay Zone Amendment

Description: The goal of this project is to provide a mixed-use development in Yosemite West that would complement the existing residential neighborhood and minimize work/home commute patterns inside the park for some employees.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Yosemite West, Specific Plan

Description: The objectives of this plan will be to resolve current land-use conflicts in Yosemite West by defining land-use standards and zoning criteria. The Yosemite West Community Advisory Committee is currently working with Mariposa County to identify other related goals and objectives of the proposed specific plan.

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Agency: Mariposa County

Project Name: Yosemite West, Thirty-One Acre Bed and Breakfast

Description: This project would be located on thirty-one acres of land located adjacent to and immediately west of the current Yosemite West Subdivision. Access to the site would require travelling over two segments of roadway located within Yosemite National Park. The complex would need to comply with Mariposa County zoning ordinances and State of California waste water treatment regulations.

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Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Yosemite West, Wastewater Improvement Projects

Description: The community of Yosemite West has received a Cease and Desist Order from the State of California, Regional Water Control Board. This order has required the Yosemite West Community to improve its wastewater treatment facilities by the fall of 2001. Wastewater treatment facilities in Yosemite West are currently undersized and cannot adequately treat the volume of sewage received. Mariposa County has also issued a moritorium on building in Yosemite West until such time as the wastewater treatment facilites are improved.

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Agency Name: Merced County

Project Name: University of California Campus, Merced

Description: A development concept is underway for a new 10,300-acre university community which would include 8,100 acres owned by trusts, 200 acres owned by the County of Merced, and 2,000 acres that would be donated by a trust. The new development will be located north and east of Lake Yosemite, just outside of Merced, California. Currently, 150 acres are and would remain a golf course; the remaining acreage is currently undeveloped. At completion, the new community is expected to encompass 5,000 developed acres, with 31,500 residents and 31,600 students, faculty, and staff, for a total population of 63,100. The development will consist of 12,000 housing units, 825,000 square feet of commercial property, and a 2,750,000 square-foot business/employment center. This project is expected to bring significant urban development and growth to the northern portion of Merced County.

The Merced campus is scheduled to open in fall 2005 and site construction is expected to begin in summer 2001. This development is located approximately 40 miles from Yosemite National Park, it requires approximately two hours of driving time on Highway 140 to reach the park. The site is located at the base of the Sierra Nevada foothills and is primarily composed of grazing land and non-native grasslands, with some wetlands.

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Agency Name: City of Merced

Project Name: Merced City General Plan

Description: By 2015, the City of Merced is expected to increase from its 1999 population of 62,000 to 133,000. The growth area was expanded from 16,000 acres to 20,500 acres in 1997 to accommodate the expected increase in population with the adoption of the City of Merced’s General Plan.

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Agency Name: California Department of Transportation, Amtrak

Project Name: Rail Projects

Description: New stations planned for the San Joaquin Corridor:

The Modesto station north of Highway 132 for the Burlington Northern/Santa Fe rail line serves the San Joaquin Valley. The rail line runs from Kern County in the south to Sacramento in the north and provides service to local ridership as well as to tourists and visitors. This line serves the east San Joaquin Valley.

Currently there are five round-trips per day in this corridor: four from the Bay Area to Bakersfield and back and one from Sacramento to Bakersfield and back. The addition of another round-trip from Sacramento to Bakersfield is anticipated within one month. Last year, 700,000 Amtrak passengers traveled the San Joaquin corridor. In addition, two-thirds of those 700,000 passengers also boarded buses chartered by Amtrak. At the Bakersfield station, there are eight bus routes to take Amtrak passengers to various destinations beyond the station.

A rail corridor improvement project is underway to upgrade track, signalization, etc., along the Union Pacific corridor from Sacramento to Stockton. Another project is planned for improvements to the Burlington Northern corridor between Stockton and Bakersfield. These improvements would decrease running time and increase ridership.

The San Joaquin corridor is the fourth most popular corridor in the country in terms of ridership.

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Agency Name: Mono County

Project Name: Double Eagle Resort Construction at June Lake

Description: Approved plans for this project include an 11,000 square-foot resort/spa development, a 2,960 square-foot restaurant, a 2,520 square-foot conference facility, and 22 rental cabins with a 4,000-square-foot recreation building. The restaurant, spa, and 14 of the 22 rental cabins were proposed to be completed in the summer of 1999. The other eight cabins were scheduled for construction during the summer of 1999, while other facilities are still in the planning phase. This project is currently in the construction phase.

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Agency Name: Mono County

Project Name: Hide-a-Way Down Canyon Condominiums, June Lake

Description: This project, now in the preliminary planning stage, will include ten condominium units.

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Agency Name: Mono County

Project Name: Highlands, June Lake

Description: Approved plans for Phase I of this project include 113 condominium units and 35 single-family residential lots. Lots are expected to become available for sale in 2000, and construction of the condominium units may occur in two or three years. This project is currently in the planning (Environmental Impact Report) phase.

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Agency Name: Mono County

Project Name: Mono County Regional Transportation Plan

Description: The goal of this project is summarized as follows: "Through it’s transportation planning efforts, the Mono County Regional Transportation Plan will assist in the preservation and protection of the park by strengthening the relationship between the Yosemite region and its eastern gateway."

The objectives of this project are as summarized: A) support the park’s mission to preserve the resources that contribute to Yosemite’s unusual character and attractiveness; B) improve opportunities for access by alternative modes; C) encourage diversity in visitor destinations and experiences; D) provide for safe and consistent transpotation between Yosemite National Park and its eastern gateway; and E) develop transportation infrastructure that supports access to and within the gateway communities.

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Agency Name: Mono County

Project Name: Residential Development, Crowley Lake

Description: This project, now in the preliminary planning stage, will include a 48-unit multi-family apartment complex.

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Agency Name: Mono County

Project Name: RV Park Specific Plan and Construction, Bodie

Description: This project will be located at the junction of U.S. 395 and S.R. 270 and will propose to impact approximately 13 acres of land on a 155 acre parcel. The project will consist of a general store, office, restroom, 10-unit motel, 600-square-foot old west museum, 32 space RV park, RV park restroom/shower, 8 cabins, 14 tent camping spaces, and 2 single-family residences.

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Agency Name: Mono County

Project Name: Tioga Inn Improvement, Lee Vining

Description: Plans have been approved for this 120-room hotel at the intersection of Highways 395 and Highway 120. The hotel will also include ten residential housing units, banquet facilities, a coffee shop, a restaurant, and a gas station. Construction is estimated to begin in 2001 or 2002. This project is currently in the construction stage.

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Agency Name: Tuolumne County

Project Name: Evergreen Lodge Expansion

Description: The Evergreen Lodge is located on Evergreen Road just south of Camp Mather, approximately 7.5 miles from Highway 120. Expansion plans are being considered to increase the size of the Lodge from 21 guest units to 109 guest units with associated amenities. It is anticipated that construction will not be completed until 2001 or 2002.

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Agency Name: Tuolumne County, Yosemite National Park, Stanislaus National Forest, Federal State Route (Highway) Administration, City and County of San Francisco, National Park Service, California State Department of Transportation.

Project Name: Evergreen Road Improvement

Description: Discussions have been held regarding the improvement of Evergreen Road through the Forest Highway program. Evergreen Road provides access to Camp Mather and the Hetch Hetchy area from Highway 120 near the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station to Yosemite National Park. The project would improve Evergreen Road and possibly reroute it east of Camp Mather to Hetch Hetchy Road. No action has been taken on this project since discussions were held in October of 1998 and the project appears to be on hold.

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Agency Name: Tuolumne County

Project Name: Rush Creek Guest Lodging and Conference Facilities

Description: Plans are being reviewed for approximately 144 guest units and conference facilities on approximately 18 acres near the intersection of Hardin Flat Road and Highway 120, approximately one mile west of the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station. The Rush Creek Lodge currently occupies the site. Construction is expected to be completed in 2001 or 2002.

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Agency Name: Tuolumne County

Project Name: Yosemite Gateway Plaza, Big Oak Flat

Description: The project, now in the planning stage, may include: 1) two hotels at 200 rooms each; 2) a 80,000 square-foot commercial center; 3) an IMAX-type theater; 4) fast-food restaurants; 5) a gas station; 6) a 200 space RV park; 7) an information building; and 8) parking to serve Yosemite National Park.

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Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Stanislaus National Forest

Project Name: A-Rock Reforestation

Description: This project will occur within Mariposa County at T2S, R19-20E and T3S, R19-20E. The Forest Service will reforest 5,000 acres within the A-Rock Fire. Reforestation activities may include burning, mechanical, and ground and serial application of herbicides. The decision notice and FONSI were signed in March 1999.

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Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service — Stanislaus National Forest

Project Name: Aspen Fuels Reduction (G020003)

Description: The project is located in Tuolumne County at the Evergreen and Aspen Valley Road junction; T1S, R19E, Sec 26 & 35. This project proposes manual and mechanical removal of under-story trees to allow 500 acres of under-burning with prescribed fire to improve spotted owl habitat and provide protection to owl habitat and general forest from stand replacing wildfire. A portion of a Spotted Owl Protected Activity Center (PAC) is included within the treatment area.

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Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Stanislaus National Forest

Project Name: Fire Management Action Plan for Wilderness

Description: This is a forest-wide action to incorporate the recently approved Federal Wildland Fire Policy that involves changes in terminology, funding sources, and management of wildland fires. A site-specific environmental analysis is in progress. The fire policy for wilderness allows naturally ignited fires to burn across boundaries (between U.S. Forest Service and National Park Service, for example) as long as the fire stays within certain prescribed conditions. As the fire burns, it is monitored and evaluated to ensure that it stays within these conditions.

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Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service

Project Name: Granite Project: Watershed Protection and Enhancement (G049905)

Description: The project is located in Tuolumne County at T1N, T2N, R18, 19E. The watershed protection and enhancement is project proposed for 12,000 acres in the Reed, Jawbone, and Granite Creek Watersheds.

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Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Inyo and Sierra National Forest

Project Name: Revised Draft, Environmental Impact Statement — Management Direction for the Ansel Adams, John Muir, and Dinkey Lakes Wildernesses

Description: The U.S. Forest Service is preparing a Forest Plan amendment for wilderness direction and land and resource management plans for three designated wilderness areas. The original planning began in 1991 and a draft EIS was released in 1997, followed by a one-year comment period. The U.S. Forest Service received over 2,000 comments. A revised draft was released to the public on August 23, 2000. The biggest issues leading to a revised draft were the lack of sufficient data to support the decisions made by the document and concerning commercial uses in the wilderness areas. The document will focus on three main areas:

One of the issues related to commercial use involves commercial outfitters who begin their trips in these wilderness areas and then move into Yosemite National Park. Outfitter operations that travel to Yosemite Valley could be affected by changes in wilderness operations.

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Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Stanislaus National Forest (Groveland Ranger District)

Project Name: Orange Crush Fuels Treatment Projects

Description: This project will occur within Mariposa County at T1S, R19E, Sec. 27, 28, 29, 32, 33 & 34. This project proposes to add 290 acres of prescribed burning of natural fuels outside the timber sale area for the Orange Crush Timber Sale (Crush Multi-Product Environmental Assessment-GO99212) and modify the original prescribed burning prescriptions. The total area to be treated with prescribed fire would be 1,018 acres.

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Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Stanislaus National Forest (Summit Ranger District)

Project Name: Pinecrest Basin Forest Plan Amendment

Description: U.S. Forest Service is evaluating how to manage the current recreational use that is occurring along the Highway 108 corridor (north of the park), particularly in the Pinecrest Lake area. There are 300 cabin permits issued in the lake area in addition to numerous campgrounds. The recreational use is excessive and methods to manage people are being explored. This project is currently in the early planning phase.

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Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Stanislaus National Forest

Project Name: Rogge-Ackerson Fire Reforestation

Description: The U.S. Forest Service will reforest 4,500 acres affected by the Rogge-Ackerson fires. Reforestation activities may include burning, slash poling, deep tilling, shredding, and application of herbicides. The decision notice and FONSI was signed in March 1999.

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Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region (PSW)

Project Name: Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration

Description: The following information was copied directly from the Sierra Nevada Framework web site @ www.r5.fs.fed.us/sncf.

In 1992, the U.S. Forest Service Pacific Southwest Region (PSW) initiated a Sierra Nevada-wide planning effort in response to a 1991 technical report on the declining status of the California spotted owl. Interim guidelines for protecting owl habitat were adopted in January 1993. The U.S. Forest Service subsequently began developing a long-term management plan for owl habitat and other issues. A draft environmental impact statement (EIS) for this work was released in 1995. A revised draft EIS was scheduled for release in 1996. However, release of new scientific information in the Sierra Nevada Ecosystem Project (SNEP) report influenced the withdrawal of the revised draft EIS. The Secretary of Agriculture empanelled a Federal Advisory Committee (FAC) to review and advise on the EIS and SNEP report. The committee concluded that the revised draft EIS was inadequate in its current form as either an owl or ecosystem management-planning document. The FAC report offered recommendations for addressing inconsistencies with new scientific information, identified shortcomings in some key elements of the analysis process, and stressed the need for more collaborative planning.

In January 1998, in response to the FAC report and other information, the Forest Service and the PSW Research Station initiated a collaborative effort to incorporate new information into management of Sierra Nevada National Forests. This effort, known as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration, incorporates the latest scientific information into national forest management through broad public and intergovernmental participation in natural resource planning. The framework includes the Sequoia, Sierra, Stanislaus, Eldorado, Inyo, Tahoe, Plumas, Lassen and Modoc National Forests, and the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit. In addition, Region 5 (PSW) is working with personnel from the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest in Region 4 to ensure coordination and compatibility of management across administrative boundaries.

The amendment effort is focused on five problem areas: old forest ecosystems; riparian, aquatic, and meadow ecosystems; fire and fuels; noxious weeds; and lower west-side hardwood forests.

Alternative 1 is the No Action Alternative that allows current forest management patterns to continue. Alternatives 2 through 8 address the five problem areas in the following manner:

The action alternatives are also similar in that they incorporate adaptive monitoring and feedback to improve management; they employ ecosystem assessment; and they require increased coordination and cooperation with tribes, local government, agencies, and the public. Alternatives 2 through 8 differ in emphasis, in the amount of land in designated areas (land allocations), in the amount of management activity that occurs, and in the flexibility for local adjustments.

The emphasis of each alternative is as follows. For more specific actions, see the summary of alternatives at the web site address provided above.

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Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management

Project Name: South Fork and Merced Wild and Scenic River Implementation Plan

Description: The U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management developed a joint South Fork and Merced Wild and Scenic River Implementation Plan in 1991 for the segments of the main stem and South Fork of the Merced River that are under the jurisdiction of these agencies. The segments include a 15-mile portion of the main stem extending from the El Portal Administrative Site to a point 300 feet upstream of the confluence with Bear Creek; a 21-mile segment of the South Fork from the park boundary to the confluence of the Merced River; and a 3-mile segment of the South Fork just upstream of Wawona, where the National Park Service has jurisdiction over the north side of the river and the U.S. Forest Service has jurisdiction over the south side. The plan calls for the long-term protection of natural and cultural resources and the management of the area for the use and enjoyment of visitors such that the resource would be unimpaired for future use and enjoyment as a natural setting.

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Agency Name: Bureau of Land Management

Project Name: Briceburg Bridge Reconstruction

Description: The Briceburg Bridge is located approximately 15 miles west of El Portal. It crosses the Merced River from Highway 140 to Burma Grade Road and provides access to a 4.5-mile frontage road on the river’s north side. Along this frontage road visitors are provided access to three Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, river frontage for river-related activities such as fishing, river-access points for rafters, and the Merced River Canyon Trail.

The bridge was damaged in the flood of 1997 and was slated for reconstruction from August to December 1999 (now complete). The bridge was closed during construction.

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Agency Name: Bureau of Land Management

Project Name: Merced River Canyon Trail Acquisition

Description: A trail for walking and mountain biking runs intermittently from approximately El Portal to Lake McClure along the old railroad bed adjacent to the Merced River. The trail was heavily damaged in a recent flood and is being reconstructed, as money becomes available. Private in-holdings occur throughout the trail’s length, thus disrupting the continuity of the trail. The Bureau of Land Management is attempting to negotiate land exchanges in order to acquire some of the private land and create a continuous trail running along the canyon from the Bagby Recreation Area to Yosemite National Park.

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| Table of Contents | Appendix A | Appendix B | Appendix C | Appendix D | Appendix E | Appendix F | Appendix G |
| Appendix H | Appendix I | Appendix J | Appendix K | Appendix L | Appendix M | Appendix N |

Yosemite National Park Home Page http://www.nps.gov File created/updated Yosemite National Park Web Manager