Attachment_14_-_Environmental_Assessment_0001.pdf

Environmental Assessment

DOI-BLM-CA-D070-2020-0022-EA

Cahuilla Ranger Station Reconstruction Project

Environmental Assessment for the Cahuilla Ranger Station Reconstruction Project January 2021 ii

Table of Contents

Acronyms ..................................................................................................................................................... iii

1. Introduction

1.1 Identifying Information

1.2 Purpose and Need for Action

1.3 Scoping, Public Involvement, and Issues

2. Proposed Action and Alternatives

2.1 Proposed Action

2.2 Project Design Features

2.3 Alternative B: No Action Alternative

2.4 Alternatives Considered but not Analyzed in Detail

2.5 Conformance

3. Affected Environment and Environmental Effects

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Recreation

3.3 Soil Resources

3.4 Travel and Transportation

3.5 Utilities

3.6 Vegetation Resources

3.7 Wildlife Resources

4. Individuals, Organizations, or Agencies Consulted

4.1 Consultation and Coordination

5. List of Preparers

References

Appendices

January 2021 iii

Acronyms

ADA Americans with Disabilities Act

BLM Bureau of Land Management

BMP best management practices

CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife

CNDDB California Natural Diversity Database

EA Environmental Assessment

ECFO El Centro Field Office

EIS Environmental Impact Statement

EMS Emergency Medical Service

FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency

FLPMA Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976

FONSI Finding of No Significant Impact

FTHL flat-tailed horned lizard

GIS Geographic information system

IPac Information for Planning and Consultation

ISDRA Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area

LE Law Enforcement

NEPA National Environmental Policy Act

OHV Off-Highway Vehicle

RAMP Recreation Area Management Plan

RMS Rangewide Management Strategy

RMZs Recreation Management Zones

ROD Record of Decision

SR-78 State Route 78

SRMA Special Recreation Management Area

USFWS United States Fish and Wildlife Service

January 2021 1

1. Introduction The United States Bureau of Land Management (BLM), El Centro Field Office (ECFO), proposes to demolish and reconstruct the existing Cahuilla Ranger Station (Proposed Action) located on Gecko Road, south of State Route 78 (SR-78) within the BLM-administered Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area (ISDRA), in southern California (Project Area; Figure 1). The existing Cahuilla Ranger Station is over 37 years old and is in poor condition. The reconstructed Cahuilla Ranger Station would include the following features and facilities:

• Visitor Information/Fee Collection lobby

• BLM Staff areas

• BLM Emergency Medical Service (EMS) area

• BLM Law Enforcement (LE) area

• BLM Maintenance area

The Project Area is located within the Imperial Sand Dunes Special Recreation Management Area (SRMA) within Imperial County in southeastern California and comprises approximately 159,000 acres of BLM-administered land covering an area more than 40 miles long and averaging five miles in width.

The primary activities within the Imperial Sand Dunes SRMA include off-highway vehicle (OHV) recreation and camping. The Imperial Sand Dunes SRMA consists of a typical sand dune habitat with larger dunes found in the central portion and microphyll woodlands found on the eastern edge that contain several plant species, including palo verde, mesquite, and ironwood. On the western edge, where the Project Area is located, crescent sand dunes transition to creosote bush scrub and psammophytic scrub vegetation communities.

The purpose of this Environmental Assessment (EA) is to identify issues, analyze alternatives, and disclose any potential environmental impacts associated with the Proposed Action. The EA will assist the BLM in project planning and ensuring compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and determining as to whether any significant environmental impacts (effects) could result from the analyzed actions. “Significance” is defined by NEPA and in 40 Code of Federal Regulations 1508.27.

Additionally, an EA provides evidence for determining whether to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) or a statement of “Finding of No Significant Impact” (FONSI). If, following the analysis in the EA, the decision maker determines that this project has “significant” impacts then an EIS would be prepared for the Proposed Action. If no such significant impacts are found, a Decision Record may be signed for the EA approving the selected alternative, whether the Proposed Action or another alternative.

A Decision Record, including a FONSI statement, documents the reasons why implementation of the selected alternative would not result in new “significant” environmental impacts that have not already been analyzed.

1.1 Identifying Information

1.1.1 Title, EA Number, and Type of Project

Cahuilla Ranger Station Reconstruction Project

DOI-BLM-CA-D070-2020-0022-EA

January 2021 2

The Proposed Action consists of construction of a new ranger station to replace the existing Cahuilla Ranger Station, which would be demolished. A full description of all alternatives including the Proposed Action can be found in Chapter 2.

1.1.2 Location of Proposed Action

The Project Area is located on BLM-administered public lands in the northwestern portion of the Imperial Sand Dunes, south of SR-78 at 4500 Gecko Road, Brawley, California (Figure 2). All figures are in Appendix A.

1.1.3 Name and Location of Preparing Office

Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management El Centro Field Office 1661 South 4th Street El Centro, CA 92243 760-337-4400

1.2 Purpose and Need for Action

The existing Cahuilla Ranger Station consists of modular buildings assembled in the mid to late 1980s to provide space for law enforcement rangers, EMS, and visitor services staff, which includes fee collection and providing information to the visiting public. This building is greater than 30 years old, in poor condition, and not large enough to accommodate visitor and staff needs to provide a safe and healthy environment while managing recreational experiences.

The need for the Cahuilla Ranger Station reconstruction and expansion is to improve public and employee health and safety, improve recreation experiences for visitors, and improve the work environment for law enforcement and rescue staff throughout the ISDRA by constructing a facility to accommodate operational needs. The purpose of the Proposed Action is to replace the existing ranger station to meet public, safety, and BLM recreation, EMS, law enforcement, and maintenance staff requirements. The Proposed Action would provide adequate and improved working facilities for BLM staff, improved law enforcement and medical facilities, as well as improved visitor facilities and services to better serve the public.

1.3 Scoping, Public Involvement, and Issues

The BLM initiated a 30-day public scoping period on July 1, 2020 to identify relevant issues which may influence the scope of the environmental analysis. Key issues or potential impacts identified during the scoping process included the following:

• Statement requesting to partner with the BLM to host safety and educational events for children and sufficient space within the Ranger Station for these events.

• Requests for sufficient space for secure indoor facilities for law enforcement.

January 2021 3

• Requests for fully staffed fire and emergency services, and space for air ambulance landing zones and community room/emergency operations center.

• Requests for a separate area for law enforcement and detainees.

• Requests for sufficient storage area for equipment and materials.

• Requests for safe, climate-controlled space for staff and visitors.

• Requests for permit vending machine, dump station, and 24-hour emergency call beacon.

In addition to public scoping, internal scoping was performed by an interdisciplinary team of BLM resource specialists to analyze the resources that may potentially be impacted should the Proposed Action be implemented. While consideration of many potential impacts to various environmental resources may arise during scoping, not all impacts warrant analysis. The potential effects to environmental resources identified during internal scoping were carried forward for detailed analysis if:

• Analysis of the effect was necessary to make a reasoned choice between alternatives.

• The effect was likely to have a noticeable or measurable impact to a resource value or values.

• Analysis of the effect was necessary to determine whether or not it would have direct or indirect impacts and, if so, the magnitude of those impacts.

• The effect had the potential to violate a law imposed to protect the environment, or any other law or regulation, without mitigation imposed; or

• An issue would add a measurable incremental impact to past, present, and reasonably foreseeable actions and therefore have a possible cumulatively substantial impact.

Potential impacts to the resources listed in the Resources Evaluation Table (Appendix B) were evaluated in accordance with criteria listed above to determine if detailed analysis was required. Rationale is provided in the Resources Evaluation Table for resources that are present but whose impacts do not warrant detailed analysis based on the criteria listed above. BLM staff determined that recreation, soil resources, travel and transportation, utilities, vegetation resources, and wildlife had the potential to be affected and, therefore, should be analyzed in this EA.

The BLM will circulate this EA and an unsigned FONSI for a 30-day public review period, during which time the public can comment on the alternatives including the Proposed Action and the analysis presented in this EA.

2. Proposed Action and Alternatives There are two alternatives described in this chapter: Alternative A: Construction of New Cahuilla Ranger Station (Proposed Action) and Alternative B: No Action Alternative.

2.1 Proposed Action

The Proposed Action consists of construction of a new Cahuilla Ranger Station adjacent to and within the existing ranger station site (Figure 3). The reconstructed ranger station would be approximately 12,000 square feet in size with a parking lot and other features covering approximately 120,000 square feet. Construction would be done by a contractor and would occur within previously graded and disturbed areas. Construction activities are expected to last one to three years. The ranger station areas/rooms would include:

January 2021 4

• Visitor services reception area with lobby/entry vestibule.

• BLM recreation/administrative workspace, workshop, staff area, and breakroom.

• BLM EMS unit/staff area (various functions).

• BLM LE area (various functions), workshop, and emergency vehicle storage area.

• Maintenance workshop and storage (general repair and light fabrication).

• Staff restrooms/showers/lockers.

• Staff sleeping rooms.

• Break/kitchen area that can flex as large meeting space.

• Administrative meeting space.

• Above ground fuel tank (existing)

• Recreational vehicle parking

• Vault toilet (existing)

• Office copy space and supply storage.

• Janitor closet, washer/dryer room, mechanical room, telecommunications room, and circulation space.

In addition to building and workshop/garage areas, there would be a visitor parking area in front of the building and an enclosed staff parking and vehicle storage area behind the building.

During demolition and construction, the BLM intends to continue to serve public needs in the recreation area. Since this site is the main command post for all visitor service operations, the BLM intends to set up temporary trailers to serve as work areas for the staff, and as a place for visitors to seek assistance and information.

Construction Methods Summary

Heavy equipment such as, but not limited to, backhoe, loader, skid steer, dump truck, excavator, crane, bulldozer, and grader would be used during construction. During construction activities, construction areas would be temporarily limited or closed to visitors and recreation for the safety of users. It is expected that use limitations or closures would last approximately four to five months.

• Construction laydown area and/or worker camp may be located on-site, at the vendor pad, and/or within the Cement Flats area (see Figure 3). The BLM will strive to minimize impacts to recreation opportunities during construction.

• Demolition/dismantling and/or removal of existing ranger station structures and infrastructure.

o Heavy equipment, such as bull dozers, would be used to demolish existing structures.

o Tractor trailer would be used to tow away modular buildings and similar structures.

o Heavy equipment, such as a backhoe, would be used to dismantle metal building structures.

o Heavy equipment, such as an excavator or backhoe, would be used to remove underground utility lines.

• Remove two existing underground fire tanks.

o Excavator or similar equipment would be used to excavate/remove the existing underground tanks, limiting disturbance to approximately 10 feet around tanks for digging (hole size), and another approximately 20 feet for vehicle maneuvering and to lift tanks out of the ground.

January 2021 5 o Underground tanks would be cut into pieces on-site and deposited into a dump truck for proper disposal.

o Heavy equipment, such as skid steer, would be used to backfill the hole with soil. Soils for backfill would be taken from soils removed from site or other BLM-approved spoil piles.

• Fill areas in need of elevation increase (primarily in central portion of Project Area).

o Sand for fill would be acquired from an area with excess sand near Pad 4 along Gecko Road

(approximately 4.5 miles south of existing ranger station, Figure 4). Excavator or similar equipment would be used to gather sand and place into a dump truck. Sand would be transported along Gecko Road to the Project Area.

o Dump truck or similar equipment would be used to fill existing 8- to 10-foot hole southeast of the existing ranger station.

o Excavator or similar equipment would be used to place sand.

o Excavator or similar equipment would be used to lay material such as aggregate over sand.

o Tamper or similar equipment would be used to compact aggregate.

o Dump truck or similar equipment would be used to overlay aggregate base with asphalt.

o Tamper or similar equipment would be used to compact asphalt.

• Use nearby sand and gravel sites for material sources. The C.P. Bull sand and gravel pit located approximately 2,500 feet east of Glamis along SR-78 would likely be used. The American Girl pit located east of Ogilby Road and southeast of the Project Area may also be used for material.

Commercial sand and gravel may also be used.

• Decommission/remove and replace two above-ground water tanks (water storage and water pressure).

o Excavator or similar equipment would be used to excavate/remove the existing water storage tank, limiting disturbance to approximately 10 feet around tank for digging (hole size), and another approximately 20 feet for vehicle maneuvering and to lift tank out of the ground.

o Water tank would be cut into pieces on-site and deposited into a dump truck for proper disposal.

o Heavy equipment such as skid steer and/or hand tools such as shovels would be used to backfill the hole with soil. Soils for backfill would be taken from soils removed from the site during construction or other BLM-approved spoil piles.

o Excavator or similar equipment would be used to lower replacement water tank into ground and to backfill

• Build a permanent ranger station (using typical construction vehicles and equipment). The ranger station would include the following:

o An approximately 12,000-square-foot BLM structure would be built using concrete block/steel or other building materials.

o Covered storage (included in the 12,000-square-foot footprint).

o Visitor parking lot of approximately 24,000 square feet to accommodate approximately

23 vehicle parking spaces and 10 pull-through/trailer spaces, including parking circulation/sand/landscaping area.

o Staff secured/gated parking lot of approximately 35,000 square feet to accommodate approximately 84 vehicle/trailer spaces.

o A water filtration system would be installed to provide a potable water supply.

January 2021 6 o A typical septic system with a leach field system would be installed.

o Electricity would be obtained from a nearby Imperial Irrigation District transmission line.

o Utilities would be contracted.

o All facilities would be Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant.

• Dust suppression materials would be applied during the construction phase and would follow Best Available Control measures found in the most current Imperial County Air Pollution Control District Rule 805.

• Interior Ranger Station roads would be surface graded after construction. Public parking area would be paved with asphalt.

• Removal and Re-Installation of vault toilets post-construction (2).

o One vault toilet would be a single toilet unit that would be moved to the new visitor parking area, possibly to the northwest corner of the lot.

o The second vault toilet would be a two-toilet unit that would be moved adjacent to the dumpster pad, just south of the Project Area on Gecko Road.

o Existing vault toilets would be removed and placed onto a trailer for relocation using excavator or similar equipment.

o Skid steer or similar equipment would be used to backfill holes.

o Excavator, skid steer, or similar equipment would be used to excavate areas for a single vault toilet (up to 6-foot-deep-by-16-foot-long-by-8-foot-wide area) and a double vault toilet (up to 6-foot-deep-by-16-foot-long-by-13-foot-wide area) for vault toilet relocation. Assumes a 45-degree side wall from the bottom of the excavation to the ground surface outward because of sand. Triangular pile of excavated material would be placed on the surface a minimum of two feet away from the edge of the excavation.

o Excavator, skid steer, or similar equipment would be used scarify and compact a minimum 8-inch layer.

o Skid steer, dump truck, or similar equipment would be used to lay and compact an approximately 6-inch aggregate base, and bedding of sand would be added.

o Skid steer or similar equipment would be used to place pre-cast CXT vault toilet foundation, and place and anchor CXT vault toilet.

• Allow 20-foot perimeter disturbance area for vehicle maneuvering.

2.2 Project Design Features

Project Design Features, listed in Appendix C, would be implemented to protect resources during construction activities.

2.3 Alternative B: No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, the existing Cahuilla Ranger Station would remain unchanged and would not be reconstructed. The existing buildings and facilities would continue to be in poor condition and would not meet the current needs of BLM recreation, EMS, and LE staff or provide adequate visitor facilities (i.e., parking, reception/visitor services area).

January 2021 7

2.4 Alternatives Considered but not Analyzed in Detail

The BLM considered an alternative that would include replacing the Cahuilla Ranger Station with another semi-permanent facility such as another modular trailer or prefabricated structure without permanent foundations. This alternative was eliminated for the following reasons: modular buildings can be more easily compromised and would need to be reinforced to prevent break-ins, etc.; the difficulty of heating and cooling modular/prefabricated structures and additional insulation/cooling units would be needed;

and site preparation and infrastructure (water, sewage, electrical, communication) would be the same for permanent as semi-permanent. Since this type of facility is only expected to last up to five years in the Sand Dunes environment and is in an isolated area where vandalism could be expected, this alternative was not considered cost effective and, therefore, was eliminated from further review.

2.5 Conformance

The Proposed Action and alternatives are in conformance with the ISDRA Approved Recreation Area Management Plan (RAMP)/Record of Decision (ROD) (BLM 2013). The ISDRA RAMP/ROD allows visitation and development within the ISDRA, while ensuring the resource protection is not compromised, in accordance with the principals of multiple use and sustained yield as mandated by the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA).

Relevant ISDRA RAMP Goals and Objectives and Management Actions include:

REC-04 Develop or retrofit facilities to accommodate visitation and meet agency requirements.

REC-05 Design all new facilities to meet the social needs of the visitors and the management needs of the

BLM.

REC-06 Provide a minimum number of recreational facilities. Those facilities should emphasize resource protection and visitor safety.

REC-07 Determine if existing facilities meet accessibility standards, management objectives, and desired future conditions. Existing facilities deemed critical will be maintained and/or modified to be accessible, to the extent possible, and safe for visitor use. Facilities not meeting management objectives and accessibility standards will be considered for removal.

January 2021 8

3. Affected Environment and Environmental Effects

3.1 Introduction

This chapter describes the existing conditions of the resource topics carried forward for analysis and discloses the potential direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts of the proposed alternatives. The BLM did not identify any additional mitigation measures needed in the analysis of each issue, beyond the Project Design Features outlined in Appendix C; therefore, no discussion of mitigation or residual impact is provided below.

For cumulative impacts, the cumulative impact area for resources is the Project Area and vicinity, unless otherwise stated. Past, present, and reasonably future actions within the Project Area include continued dispersed and developed recreation (including camping and OHV recreation), planned future development of recreational facilities and recreational vehicle camping sites in the Glamis area, utility site (communications site), and repair and maintenance of SR-78.

3.2 Recreation

3.2.1 Affected Environment

The ISDRA provides public access to an average of 800,000 to 900,000 visitors during a seven-month peak season (October through April). The highest visitor usage at the ISDRA is typically documented on four holidays: Halloween, Thanksgiving, New Year’s Day, and Presidents’ Day. Cahuilla Ranger Station is located within the northwestern portion of the ISDRA off Gecko Road and south of SR-78 (see Figure 3). This area of the ISDRA is designated as the ISDRA SRMA and is managed as a Destination SRMA. A Destination SRMA is managed as a regional or national destination through collaborative partnerships. Within each SRMA, BLM also allocates Recreation Management Zones (RMZs), which represent public lands with a distinctive recreation niche (activities, experiences, and benefits). Cahuilla Ranger Station is located within the Open RMZ, which is managed for OHV and other motorized recreational opportunities while conserving natural, biological, and cultural resources.

Recreation amenities near Cahuilla Ranger Station along Gecko Road include eight hard-packed camping areas and three campgrounds, including Gecko Loop Campground, Roadrunner Campground, and Keyhole Campground. Vault toilets are located at Gecko and Roadrunner campgrounds, Cement Flats, and south of Cahuilla Ranger Station.

Recreational use near Cahuilla Ranger Station consists primarily of OHV activities within the dunes.

Other recreational use in the area includes hiking, wildlife and scenery viewing, picnicking, photography, nature study and environmental education, camping, sightseeing, and pleasure driving. Cahuilla Ranger Station provides recreational visitor services, including dunes recreation permits, visitor information, and medical aid.

January 2021 9

3.2.2 Environmental Effects

No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, Cahuilla Ranger Station would not be reconstructed and no changes to the existing facilities would be made, other than routine maintenance and repair. The No Action Alternative would result in continued poor conditions of the building, not enough space to accommodate visitor and staff needs, or accommodate operational needs. Under the No Action Alternative, limited environmental education opportunities exist within the existing facilities, causing short- and long-term adverse impacts to the ability to provide visitors with these opportunities.

The No Action Alternative would result in short- and long-term adverse impacts to recreation from the lack of an adequate ranger station that provides visitor services, facilities, and environmental education, which would also have an adverse impact on the visitor recreational experience.

Cumulative Impacts of No Action Alternative

Implementation of the No Action Alternative combined with the past, present, and future actions in the Project Area, would likely result in short- and long-term term cumulative adverse impacts to the recreational experience within the Project Area due to ongoing and possibly increased recreational use of the area.

Proposed Action

Reconstruction of Cahuilla Ranger Station would result in short-term adverse impacts to recreation from construction activities. There could be short-term adverse impacts to visitors using the Cement Flats camping area and/or vendors located at the vendor pad who may be displaced. Visitors seeking permits or information from the Cahuilla Ranger Station may also experience inconvenience with parking in order to access the temporary facility. The Cahuilla Ranger Station would be closed during the construction period and construction activities are expected to last one to three years. The larger and improved facilities, including expanded visitor parking, would provide more space for visitor services and opportunities to educate visitors about the dune’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources. Over the long term, once construction is completed, the Proposed Action would result in beneficial impacts to recreation and the visitor experience from the larger and improved ranger station facilities, visitor services, environmental education opportunities, as well as improved law enforcement and medical facilities and services.

Cumulative Impacts of Action Alternative

The Proposed Action would result in short-term adverse impacts to recreation during construction activities from closure and reconstruction of Cahuilla Ranger Station and long-term beneficial impacts to recreation from larger and improved facilities. The Proposed Action, in combination with past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions, would not likely result in adverse cumulative impacts to recreation.

January 2021 10

3.3 Soil Resources

3.3.1 Affected Environment

The Project Area is located within one soil type, Rositas fine sand with 2 to 9 percent slopes (Natural Resource Conservation Service 2020). Prevailing winds cause the ISDRA dunes to migrate to the southeast at approximately one foot per year and the sand within the Project Area is continually shifting as part of this dune system.

The Project Area has been disturbed by the existing Cahuilla Ranger Station, parking area, structures, visitor use area (including a parking area and vault toilets), and recreational vehicle travel. There is minimal vegetation within and surrounding the Project Area and no ephemeral desert washes or other drainage features (see Figure 3).

3.3.2 Environmental Effects

No Action Alternative

Recreational activities as well as roadway maintenance and repair activities, in the Project Area and vicinity result in sand disturbance; however, sand is continually shifting within the dunes system and tracks and other disturbances are covered with sand in a relatively short period of time. The No Action Alternative would not likely result in adverse impacts to sand from continued use of the existing Cahuilla Ranger Station.

Cumulative Impacts of No Action Alternative

Implementation of the No Action Alternative combined with the past, present, and future actions, would not likely change current soil/sand conditions in the Project Area.

Proposed Action

Under the Proposed Action, construction activities for Cahuilla Ranger Station would occur within the existing ranger station disturbed area, the sand acquisition area near Pad 4 along Gecko Road, and construction laydown/worker campsite area. During construction activities, sand would be temporarily disturbed; however, activities would occur within areas with existing disturbed sand from ongoing administrative and recreational use. Short-term adverse impacts to sand from disturbance during construction would not noticeably change erosion potential in the Project Area. Project Design Features have been incorporated to avoid and minimize potential erosion during construction activities (see Appendix C). Over the long term, minimal disturbance to sand in the Project Area is expected as the majority of activities would occur within the paved portions of the reconstructed Cahuilla Ranger Station.

Cumulative Impacts of Action Alternative

Road maintenance and repair activities and ongoing OHV recreation result in sand disturbance in the Project Area. The Proposed Action would include construction activities that would result in short-term sand disturbance; however, erosion control measures would minimize erosion potential. The Proposed

January 2021 11

Action, in combination with past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions within the Project Area would not likely result in adverse cumulative impacts to soil/sand resources.

3.4 Travel and Transportation

3.4.1 Affected Environment

Cahuilla Ranger Station is located on Gecko Road approximately 1,000 feet south of SR-78, which is the primary access route to the area. SR-78 is an east-west route that begins in Oceanside, California and ends in Blythe, California, just before the Arizona state line. Within the ISDRA, SR-78 is a two-lane route.

Cahuilla Ranger Station is located between the Open and Closed RMZs. The Open RMZs are managed for OHV and other motorized recreational opportunities while conserving natural, biological, and cultural resources. The Closed RMZs are managed for natural qualities to provide opportunities for expansive non-motorized recreational activities and to sustain the natural wilderness characteristics (North Algodones Dunes Wilderness).

Gecko Road begins at SR-78 and ends within the dunes at the Roadrunner Campground, approximately

5.5 miles south of SR-78. Gecko Road provides access to Cahuilla Ranger Station, camping pads, and the Gecko, Keyhole, and Roadrunner campgrounds.

During the fall and winter, particularly during holiday weekends, traffic along SR-78 and Gecko Road can be heavy. Annual average daily traffic for SR-78 at Glamis (approximately five miles east of Gecko Road) was approximately 1,750 for 2018 (California Department of Transportation 2020).

3.4.2 Environmental Effects

No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, Cahuilla Ranger Station would not be reconstructed. The existing ranger station would continue to offer limited parking and congestion during high visitation periods for visitors as well as law enforcement and medical service staff. The current condition of the ranger station and parking would not change the traffic along Gecko Road or SR-78, although slower traffic may occur in the ranger station area during busy holiday weekends.

Cumulative Impacts of the No Action Alternative

Implementation of the No Action Alternative combined with the past, present, and future actions, would not likely result in short- or long-term changes to current travel/transportation within the Project Area and no cumulative impacts would likely occur.

Proposed Action

Under the Proposed Action, travel and transportation along SR-78 and Gecko Road may be disrupted or slowed during construction from the increase in construction vehicle traffic and activities within the Project Area, resulting in short-term adverse impacts. Once construction is completed, travel and transportation would return to normal and no long-term adverse impacts would occur. The reconstructed

January 2021 12

Cahuilla Ranger Station visitor parking lot would improve circulation and may minimize traffic congestion, resulting in a long-term beneficial impact to traffic in the Project Area.

Cumulative Impacts of Action Alternative

Past, present, and reasonably future actions within the Project Area include continued dispersed and developed recreation (including camping and OHV recreation), planned future development of recreational facilities and recreational vehicle camping sites in the Glamis area, a communications site, and repair and maintenance of SR-78. It is not anticipated that the above activities would substantially increase in the Project Area or vicinity. The Proposed Action would result in short-term localized adverse impacts to travel from construction activities and long-term beneficial impacts to travel from the improvements to circulation and parking within the reconstructed ranger station. The Proposed Action, in combination with past, present, and reasonably foreseeable actions within the Project Area would not likely result in adverse cumulative impacts related to travel and transportation.

3.5 Utilities

3.5.1 Affected Environment

There are two communications sites near or within the vicinity of the Project Area. There is a communication site on the west side adjacent to Cahuilla Ranger Station and another approximately 2.4 miles to the east at the end of Osborne Park Road (at Osborne Lookout). Electrical power for the ranger station comes from lines running south along Gecko Road from SR-78. There are no major utility corridors or renewable energy facilities within the Project Area or vicinity (BLM 2013).

3.5.2 Environmental Effects

No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alternative, Cahuilla Ranger Station would not be reconstructed, no changes to the existing facilities would be made, and no impacts would occur to the adjacent communications site or power lines.

Cumulative Impacts of the No Action Alternative

Implementation of the No Action Alternative combined with the past, present, and future actions, would not likely result in short- or long-term changes to utilities within the Project Area and no cumulative impacts would occur.

Proposed Action

During construction activities under the Proposed Action, power lines may be cut during demolition of the existing ranger station and reconnected to the new building. Utility poles would not be impacted by construction activities. The communications site adjacent to the existing facility would not be changed as part of construction, however, construction activities may cause short-term disruption of the site. No long-term impacts to utility lines, sites, or services would occur.

January 2021 13

Cumulative Impacts of Action Alternative

The Proposed Action would result in short-term adverse impacts to utilities during construction activities from cutting of power lines and possible disruption of communications. No long-term beneficial or adverse impacts are expected. The Proposed Action, in combination with past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions, would not likely result in adverse cumulative impacts to utilities.

3.6 Vegetation Resources

3.6.1 Affected Environment

Vegetation Community

Cahuilla Ranger Station is located on the western edge of the dune field comprising the Imperial Sand Dunes. It is constructed on a series of long linear dune formations. Just east of the ranger station, crescent sand dunes begin to occur. There are two primary vegetation communities present in this area, creosote bush scrub and psammophytic scrub. There are also human disturbances present including Highway 78, Gecko Road, a gravel trailer pad for commercial vendors, the Cement Flats Campground, and a visitor information turnout.

To the west of the ranger station is flat, sandy, creosote bush scrub habitat. This is one of the most common vegetation communities in the Colorado Desert and typically occurs on well-drained secondary soils. In this area, creosote bush scrub occurs on the relatively stable soils along the periphery of the sand dunes system. This vegetation community is generally characterized by relatively barren ground between widely spaced shrubs. The community consists of almost pure stands of creosote bush.

At the ranger station Project Area and continuing to the east, a psammophytic scrub vegetation community is present. Psammophytic scrub occurs within the interior dune system of the Imperial Sand Dunes where active and partially stabilized dunes are found. This vegetation community occurs most frequently between active dunes in depressions that are commonly termed “bowls.” The soils in these areas consist primarily of fine sand. As the dunes shift from year to year, dune bowls generally shift as well. Vegetation is adapted to relatively high sand mobility and deep-water percolation. Most of the plant species found in this community are capable of rapid growth given favorable soil moisture conditions.

Common vegetation within this community includes Mormon tea (Ephedra trifurca), Colorado desert buckwheat (Eriogonum deserticola), desert dicoria (Dicoria canescens), common sandpaper plant (Petalonyx thurberi), desert panicum (Panicum urvilleanum), and plicate coldenia (Tiquilia plicata).

Additionally, birdcage evening primrose (Oenothera deltoids) and desert lily (Hesperocallis undulata) may occur in the relatively stable dunes that form a transitional zone with the creosote bush scrub vegetation community (BLM 2013).

Threatened and Endangered Species

A list of species that have the potential to occur within Cahuilla Ranger Station Project Area and vicinity was obtained from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Information for Planning and Consultation (IPac) System (USFWS 2020). The official species list included only one species of plant, January 2021 14 the Peirson’s milk-vetch (Astragalus magdalenae var. peirsonii). Peirson’s Milk-vetch is listed as Federally threatened and California endangered. It has a State Rank of S1 and a California Rare Plant Rank (CRPR) of 1B.2. It is an annual or perennial herb in the Fabaceae family that is native to California, Arizona, and Baja California. The species blooms from December to April and occurs primarily in psammophytic scrub habitats.

There is no Critical Habitat for this species within or in the vicinity of the Project Area. The nearest Critical Habitat is located more than five miles from the Project Area. Peirson’s milk-vetch habitat consists of sandy depressions at the base of high dunes and lower established dunes. This species is restricted to about 53,000 acres in a narrow band running 40 miles northwest to southeast along the western portion of the ISDRA. Plants are generally scattered throughout the dune complex with a higher abundance along the central and western aspect of the dunes (BLM 2013). The species has not been identified within 0.5 mile of the existing Cahuilla Ranger Station. The species has a low probability of occurring in the Project Area as the site lacks suitable developed dune habitat.

BLM Sensitive Species

Based on the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDDB), three plant species listed as BLM Sensitive may occur in the Project Area, these include sand food (Pholisma sonorae), giant Spanish needle (Palafoxia arida var. gigantean), and Wiggins croton (Croton wigginsii) (California Department of Fish and Wildlife [CDFW] 2020).

Sand Food: Sand Food is a BLM Sensitive Species, has a State Rank of S2, and a CRPR of 1B.2. It is a perennial parasitic herb in the Boraginaceae family that is native to California, Arizona, Baja California, and Sonora. The species blooms from April to June and occurs primarily in sandy creosote bush scrub and in psammophytic scrub habitats. One individual was identified on the Project Area during 2018 surveys. The entire Project Area is suitable habitat for this species.

Giant Spanish Needle: Giant Spanish Needle is a BLM Sensitive Species, has a State Rank of S2, and a CRPR of 1B.3. It is an annual or perennial herb in the Asteraceae family that is native to California and Arizona. The species blooms from February to May and occurs primarily in creosote bush scrub and in psammophytic scrub habitats. Up to 100 individuals were identified in the Project Area during 2018 surveys. The entire Project Area is suitable habitat for this species.

Wiggins’ Croton: Wiggins’ Croton is a BLM Sensitive Species, has a State Rank of S2, and a CRPR of 2B.2. It is a shrub in the Euphorbiaceae family that is native to California, Arizona, Baja California, and Sonora. This species blooms from March to May and occurs primarily in sandy creosote bush scrub and in psammophytic scrub habitats. Up to 100 individuals were identified in the Project Area during 2018 surveys. The entire Project Area is suitable habitat for this species.

3.6.2 Environmental Effects

No Action Alternative

Recreational activities in the Project Area and vicinity can result in disturbance (trampling, crushing, breakage, soil compaction) to native vegetation; however, vegetation is sparse overall. The No Action

January 2021 15

Alternative would not likely result in adverse impacts to the vegetation community or BLM Sensitive plant species from continued use of the existing Cahuilla Ranger Station.

Cumulative Impacts of the No Action Alternative

Implementation of the No Action Alternative, combined with the past, present, and future actions, would not likely result in short- or long-term impacts to the vegetation community or BLM Sensitive Species within the Project Area and no cumulative impacts would occur.

Proposed Action

Vegetation Community

Under the Proposed Action, construction activities for Cahuilla Ranger Station would occur within the existing ranger station disturbed area, the sand acquisition area near Pad 4 along Gecko Road, and construction laydown/worker campsite area. During construction activities, vegetation within the construction footprint may be removed or trimmed; however, the majority of the Project Area is disturbed and there is minimal vegetation. Short-term adverse impacts to vegetation from disturbance during construction would not noticeably reduce the psammophytic scrub vegetation community in the Project Area. Project Design Features have been incorporated to avoid and minimize potential impacts to vegetation during construction activities (see Appendix C). Over the long term, minimal, if any, disturbance to vegetation in the Project Area is expected as the majority of activities would occur within the paved portions of the reconstructed Cahuilla Ranger Station.

Threatened and Endangered Species

BLM has initiated consultation with the USFWS by letter dated September 2, 2020 requesting concurrence with a determination of not likely to adversely affect the Peirson’s milk-vetch and Mojave Desert tortoise.

There are no known populations of Peirson’s milk-vetch within one mile of the Project Area, and no critical habitat within five miles. Species specific surveys would be conducted prior to construction activities (see Appendix C). There are no anticipated adverse effects to Peirson’s milk-vetch under the Proposed Action due to the lack of suitable habitat, populations, and critical habitat near the Project Area.

BLM Sensitive Species

A survey for BLM Sensitive plant species would be conducted prior to construction, as detailed in the Project Design Features in Appendix C. If BLM Sensitive plants are found within the Project Area, a resource setback may be established to protect plants and avoid disturbance if deemed necessary by the authorized biologist; however, no long-term adverse impacts to BLM Sensitive Species are anticipated.

Wiggins’ croton and giant Spanish needle are some of the most common species in the potential expansion footprint of the ranger station. These two species take advantage of rainwater runoff from the pavement of the existing Cahuilla Ranger Station and Gecko Road. They are commonly found within a few feet of the pavement edge surrounding the ranger station and lining the roadway. While these species are expected to be impacted by the Proposed Action, it is believed that they would regrow in the area

January 2021 16 around the expanded ranger station continuing to take advantage of the water runoff from pavement during rare rain events.

Cumulative Impacts of Action Alternative

Road maintenance and repair activities and ongoing OHV recreation result in vegetation disturbance in the Project Area. The Proposed Action would include construction activities that would result in short-term vegetation disturbance; however, Project Design Features would be implemented to minimize adverse impacts. No long-term adverse impacts are anticipated. The Proposed Action, in combination with past, present, and reasonably foreseeable future actions within the Project Area would not likely result in adverse cumulative impacts to vegetation resources.

3.7 Wildlife Resources

3.7.1 Affected Environment

Threatened and Endangered Species

Based on the USFWS IPac System list for the Project Area, there are no listed threatened and endangered wildlife species found in the vicinity of the Project Area (USFWS 2020). However, one species may occur within 10 miles of the Project Area: Mojave Desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii).

Mojave Desert Tortoise: Mojave Desert tortoise are also known to occur in the area (CDFW 2020) with the nearest recorded sighting approximately 8.5 miles east of the Project Area. Critical habitat has been designated for this species and is located approximately 12 miles east of the Project Area. Tortoises have large home ranges; movement generally is determined based on the availability of food and water as well as social influences such as mating or territoriality (Franks, Avery, and Spotila 2011). Open sand dunes are not suitable habitat for tortoises and the eastern edge of the Imperial Sand Dunes act as a natural barrier for the species preventing further dispersal to the west. Therefore, the species has a low probability of occurring in the Project Area.

BLM Sensitive Wildlife Species

Two BLM Sensitive wildlife species may occur in the Project Area: flat-tailed horned lizard (Phrynosoma mcalli) and Colorado Desert fringe-toed lizard (Uma notate). The flat-tailed horned lizard (FTHL) is typically found in areas of sand desert hardpan or gravel flats with scattered sparse vegetation of low species diversity. This species is most common in areas with a high density of harvester ants and fine windblown sand, but rarely occurs on dunes (CDFW 2020). The BLM is a signatory to a 1997 Conservation Agreement to conserve the FTHL. The Agreement’s objective is to implement the FTHL Rangewide Management Strategy. The Project Area is within the species range, but outside of FTHL management areas.

The Colorado Desert fringe-toed lizard typically occurs in sparsely vegetated arid areas with fine wind-blown sand, including dunes, flats with sandy hummocks formed around the bases of vegetation, washes, and the banks of rivers. This species needs fine, loose sand for burrowing.

January 2021 17

General Wildlife

The wildlife commonly associated with psammophytic scrub include black-tailed gnatcatcher (Polioptila melanura), mourning dove (Zenaida macroura), cliff swallow (Hirundo pyrrhonota), coyote (Canis latrans), roundtail ground squirrel (Spermophilus tereticaudus), desert kangaroo rat (Dipodomys deserti), and black-tailed hare (Lepus californicus). The endemic Andrew’s dune scarab beetle (Psuedocotalapa andrewsi) is also found in this habitat type (Hardy and Andrews 1979). A variety of migratory bird species may also occur in the Project Area, although occupancy is likely limited due to scattered and minimal vegetation (BLM 2013).

3.7.2 Environmental Effects

No Action Alternative

Under the No Action Alterative, no construction activities would occur; therefore, no construction-related adverse impacts to BLM Sensitive reptile species and general wildlife species would occur.

Cumulative Impacts of the No Action Alternative

Implementation of the No Action Alternative, combined with the past, present, and future actions, would not likely result in short- or long-term impacts to the BLM Sensitive Species or general wildlife within the Project Area and no cumulative impacts would occur.

Proposed Action

BLM Sensitive Wildlife Species

Federally listed species are not likely to occur in the Project Area; however, Mojave Desert tortoise has been sighted within 10 miles of the Project Area. Potential impacts to desert tortoise would not likely occur; however, to further minimize any potential impacts to these species, Project Design Features have been incorporated into the Proposed Action (see Appendix C).

Under the Proposed Action, construction activities may result in direct mortality, injury, or harassment of FTHLs and Colorado Desert fringe-toed lizards, including the potential crushing of individuals, disruption of essential behavior, and disturbance from construction equipment noise or vibrations.

Potential indirect impacts include habitat degradation in previously undisturbed areas and increased potential for invasive species.

The majority of construction activities within the Project Area would occur within the currently disturbed ranger station and parking areas, with minimal disturbance of vegetation and soils adjacent to the Project Area. No activities would occur during the night and no lighting would be used. Potential direct and indirect adverse impacts to FTHLs and Colorado Desert fringe-toed lizards would be avoided or minimized by implementation of measures identified in the FTHL Rangewide Management Strategy (FTHL Interagency Coordinating Committee 2003), as well as vegetation and biological resource Project Design Features incorporated into Appendix C.