|
57 |
||
|
p>/"\ |
86 127 p |
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT - DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT PLAN
PUBLIC DOCUMENTS. DEPOSITORY ITEM
P December 1985
JUN 23 1986
CLEMSON LIBRARY
EUBUC DOCUMENTS N^QSI]RW?Yira4
JUN 28 1986
CLEMSON
:^Qt
LEES FERRY
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Arizona
National Park Service - Rocky Mountain Region
P
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT - DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT PLAN
For the Lees Ferry Development Zone, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Coconino County, Arizona.
National Park Service United States Department of the Interior
Responsible Official;
L. Lorraine Mintzmyer Regional Director Rocky Mountain Region National Park Service
For Further Information:
John 0. Lancaster
Superintendent
Glen Canyon National
Recreation Area P.O. Box 1507 Page, Arizona 86040 (602) 645-2471
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter I - Purpose and Need 1
Introduction 1
Purpose 4
Need 5
Issues 5
Issue Treatment 8
Chapter II - The Proposal 9
Introduction 9
Visitor Facilities 9
Circulation Patterns 11
Interpretation 12
Cultural Resource Management 16
Natural Resource Management 17
Administrative/Maintenance 22
Fees 24
Chapter III - Alternatives Considered 35
Introduction 35
Alternative Formulation 35
Alternative Descriptions 35
Alternative A 35
Alternative B 41
Alternative C 47
Summary Comparison of Alternatives 55
Chapter IV - Affected Environment 57
Introduction 57
Natural Resources 57
Geology - Soils 57
Vegetation 58
Hydrology 58
Air 59
Wildlife and Fish 59
Cultural Resources 64
Archeological 64
Historical 65
Visitor Use Data 73
Facility Analysis 78
Regional Facilities and Land Uses 85
Other Influences 86
Commercial Operations Background 87
Interpretation g8
Current Staffing 88
Chapter V - Environmental Consequences 90
Introduction 90
Effects on Natural Resources 92
Geology - Soils 92
Hydrology 94
Air 94
Fisheries 95
Effects on Cultural Resources 96
Historic 96
Archeological 97
Effects On Visitor Use 99
Effects on Facilities 99
Effects on Regional Facilities and Land Uses 103
Effects on Other Influences 104
Effects on Interpretation 105
Effects on Staffing J.07
Viability of Commercial Operations 107
Summary Comparison of Environmental Consequences ... .110
Chapter VI - List of Preparers 112
Chapter VII - Consultation J.13
Appendix - Cost Estimates 116
List of Maps
Map 1.1 - Rocky Mountain Region 2
Map 1.2 - Vicinity Map 3
Map II. 1 - Proposed Development Concept Plan 31
Map II. 2 - Area Specific Development Concepts 33
Map III .1 - Alternative A 39
Map III. 2 - Alternative B 45
Map 1 1 1. 3 - Alternative C 53
Map IV. 1 - Flood Hazards 61
Map IV. 2 - Historic Districts 72
Map IV. 3 - Existing Conditions 83
SUMMARY OF PROPOSED PLAN
The proposal presented in this document includes provisions to continue improvement of vehicular circulation patterns; improved camping, group use and environmental education area; reduction of adverse visual impacts associated with facilities; relocation of the maintenance area; stabilization of structures within the Lees Ferry and Lonely Dell Ranch Historic Districts; new visitor contact/administrative facility; interpretive trails; improved interpretive services; operation of Lonely Dell as a working ranch; and continuation of current commercial activities .
Specific improvements associated with the proposed plan include:
5,300 square foot visitor contact/administrative building with a 50-60 stall parking lot.
- Improved river launching facilities.
- .8 miles of interpretive trail construction to connect the Lees Ferry and Lonely Dell Ranch Historic Districts.
- 2 National Park Service duplex units, 6 unit apartment.
- 1,800 square foot maintenance shop.
- 1,000 square feet of covered storage.
- Relocation of existing amphitheater and expansion to 200 seats.
- Relocation of trailer dump station.
- Stabilization of historic structures.
- Operation of Lonely Dell as a working ranch.
- Replacement of existing water storage tower with ground level water storage tank.
Digitized by the Internet Archive
in 2012 with funding from
LYRASIS Members and Sloan Foundation
http://archive.org/details/environmentalass001985
CHAPTER I
PURPOSE AND NEED
INTRODUCTION
This environmental assessment/development concept plan (EA/DCP) was prepared to examine the possible environmental consequences of various management and development alternatives at the Lees Ferry development zone of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (NRA) .
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area occupies approximately 1,255,000 acres of northern Arizona and southern Utah. The recreation area was established "to provide for public outdoor recreation use and enjoyment of Lake Powell and lands adjacent thereto. .. and to preserve scenic, scientific and historic features contributing to public enjoyment of the area." Lake Powell was formed by an impoundment of the Colorado River in 1964. The reservoir exists primarily for the purpose of flood control, river regulation, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation.
The Lees Ferry developed area lies in north central Arizona in Coconino County, approximately 15 miles south of the Glen Canyon Dam and 50 road miles from the city of Page, Arizona. Vehicular access to the site is via US Highway 89A. Lees Ferry is the southernmost portion of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and adjoins Grand Canyon National Park. The boundary of Grand Canyon National Park follows the historic high flow mark of the Colorado River upstream to the confluence with the Paria River.
It lies in the general vicinity of the confluence of the Colorado River with the Paria River. Much of the area is on a floodplain and was subject to occasional inundation by both rivers. With the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam, the flooding along the Colorado River has been eliminated, although there have been some high releases from the dam which cause high river levels, but no flooding of the Lees Ferry area. With the growth of development and farming along the upper reaches of the Paria River, the flow in that river has been greatly reduced in the last 25 years. The existing development zone is comprised of 280 acres.
I —
Lewis & Clark N.HT
F°" Benton D*'
\ HI
Fort Union
Trading Post
NHS
/( GrontWs
\ I Ranch N.H.S.
I XoB^Hale
Devil's Tower D NM.
Inter national PeaceGarden
»Knife River Indian Villages NHS
jlllMMCIt
I I
1
\
s
n I
Mount Rushmore N rJAem.0 IXJ?odl
Jewel Cave NM° f-f^ N
Oregon Pioneer NHT, | S^ j
' ^Fossil Butte
aGolden Spike â– ' \ N M
I ~1
IwindCave" j N.P
f
_Oregon Pioneer NHT - Mormon Pioneer NHT
,»*" (__ Mormon Pioneer NHT 7,W
Fort Laramie N.KSt3.% j /'"
if
Mormon Pioneer NHT
CHIVfMNI
Oregon Pioneer NHT
Cave NM
Capitol ^ j
NPrx CanyonlondS> U | Block Canyon
iclntr'v^
H Arches
T
J^Dinosaur
j
j Colorado I KM.
Q
g i
Florissont
Fossils Beds NM.
N ,
Natural i u
- (£ Mesa Verde NP
mt's Old Fort NHS.
N
40 SO 120 ieoi
85 130 195 260 km.
Great Sond Dunes N M
fj
Legend
• Locations of Major Cities
* Locations of State Capitals L, State Boundary Lines
^3 National Park Service Areas
MAP 1.1
ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGION
National Park Service
United States Department of the Interior
National Park Service Historical Trails
LEGEND I \ Glen Canyon N.R.A.
Navajo Indian Reservation
N
MAP L2
LEES FERRY
VICINITY MAP
GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA utah-arizona
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
608 I 80,030 9-80 IRMRO
Lees Ferry was the river crossing of the Colorado used by Mormon pioneers going south from Utah into Arizona to establish Mormon communities. It was also the route used by the Mormons going to the Temple in St. George. As such, it was a vital link for the Mormon Church and played an important part in the history of the Church expansion and settlement. There are two (2) historic districts within the Lees Ferry developed area, the Lees Ferry Historic District and the Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District.
PURPOSE
The development of Lees Ferry was included in the General Management Plan for the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (1979 ) . A developed area plan was prepared for Lees Ferry in 1961 and amended in 1968. Based on the amendment, comprehensive plans were prepared in 1970 which located extensive concessioner development, including lodging and restaurant facilities. Utility systems were constructed by the National Park Service to handle this proposed development. In 1978 the concessioner at Lees Ferry, Fort Lee Co., decided that they did not want to develop the lodging and restaurant facilities and that they also wanted to get rid of the existing concession facilities they operated, with the exception of their river trips between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry. This was agreed to by the National Park Service and the concessioner's possessory interests were subsequently purchased by the National Park Service. A portion of the sewage system constructed for the concession development was abandoned when the concession operation was removed from Lees Ferry. Currently, the only concession operations at Lees Ferry are the commercial river trips through the Grand Canyon and between the Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry. Because there have been so many changes in the scope and type of facilities identified as needed and desirable at Lees Ferry, the existing plans are totally obsolete. The purpose of this environmental document is to analyze various development concept plan alternatives that will provide the National Park Service direction for management of the Lees Ferry developed area for about the next 10 to 20 years.
NEED
The need for this planning effort is dictated by changing conditions, use patterns, and demands in and near the Lees Ferry area. These changes are documented in the issues listed below. Issues were first identified by the Regional Office and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area staff. These issues were distributed for public comment in a scoping brochure. Beginning in January 1984, the public responded to that scoping effort. Following the response period the issues were refined to reflect the public attitudes and ideas.
ISSUES
Issues are the areas of concern which constitute the
significant subjects or questions of discussion and
interest regarding development and use of Lees Ferry.
Each issue presented is a combination of several related
concerns or problems identified by the public and the National Park Service.
ISSUE A; HOW WILL HISTORIC AND ARCHEOLOGIC SITES AND RESOURCES BE MANAGED IN THE LEES FERRY AREA?
This issue includes the protection and management of the Lees Ferry and Lonely Dell Ranch Historic Districts. Many people felt that the Lonely Dell Ranch should be restored and operated as a living history museum, including restoration of the orchards and other vegetation. They also felt that the Lees Fort should be restored and managed as a significant historic site. These publics felt a museum for artifact storage and display should be provided. Other issues focused on adaptive use of the historic structures for other purposes.
This issue also included the commemorative plaques located adjacent to the base of the Navajo High Bridge as well as the archeologic sites along the Colorado River and within the developed area. Some of the respondents felt that the plaques should be removed and displayed in a safer location and that additional management actions are needed to protect the river's archeologic resources.
Other respondents felt that the current management and conditions of historic and archeologic resources are sufficient and, therefore, the National Park Service
should leave them as is.
ISSUE B; HOW WILL VISITOR USE BE MANAGED AND REGULATED IN THE LEES FERRY AREA?
This issue includes visitor use patterns, regulations, and user or entrance fees. Some of the respondents felt that the number of boats on the river between Lees Ferry and the Glen Canyon Dam should be limited. They also felt that motor size, speed, and wake size should be limited. Some respondents also felt that camping upriver should be prohibited and the area reserved for day use only. Some respondents also felt that there should be a daily entrance fee, while others felt that the current conditions should be maintained and no entrance fee charged.
Issue C: WHAT LEVEL AND TYPE OF VISITOR USE FACILITIES
ARE APPROPRIATE AT LEES FERRY?
Some respondents felt that the current facilities at Lees Ferry are adequate and should be left at current levels. Other respondents felt that improvement of visitor facilities is necessary. Some indicated a need to relocate or rehabilitate the existing campground, while others felt that the campground should be eliminated and camping facilities provided outside the Park and operated by private enterprise. Some respondents indicated a need for a "throw-down" camping area with minimum development for tent users and backpackers.
Items identified by respondents as needs included an entrance sign, expanded parking for single vehicles as well as buses and improved interior roads. Trail improvements were identified as needed to improve the safety of existing trails and to provide interpretation and pedestrian access between the Lonely Dell Ranch, Lees Fort, and Lees Ferry and the recreation facilities within the area.
Also identified by respondents were improved day use facilities, expanded downriver rigging area, and improved sanitary facilities. Because of launch ramp design, considerable traffic congestion and user conflicts occur at the launch ramp during periods of high use. This results in delays and user stress at the launch ramp; corrective actions require investigation.
ISSUE D; HOW CAN LEES FERRY BE MANAGED TO MAINTAIN OR IMPROVE FISHING FACILITIES?
Many people felt that the majority of the users at Lees Ferry are fishermen. They indicated a need for closer working relations between the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and the Arizona Game and Fish Department, better enforcement of fishing regulations, and relocation of campsites along the Colorado River to nonproductive fishing areas.
ISSUE E: HOW SHOULD THE NATURAL RESOURCES BE PROTECTED
AND MANAGED AT LEES FERRY?
The need for additional personnel was identified by several respondents. The personnel would be for the enforcement of regulations to protect the resources and for the operation and maintenance of the historic facilities. Respondents also felt that the resources along the Paria and the Colorado rivers should be protected and that firewood cutting should be stopped in these areas.
Many respondents felt that the overhead power lines, water storage tank, and the employee housing area were a visual intrusion on the area and should be corrected. The power lines should be buried; the housing area and the water storage tank should be relocated. Other respondents felt that the cost of relocation of these facilities was prohibitive and the relocation should not be made.
ISSUE F; HOW SHOULD INTERPRETIVE AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS BE MANAGED AT LEES FERRY?
Some respondents indicated a need for additional interpretive personnel and expanded interpretive programs. The need for a facility at or near the launch ramp was identified and the need for a great deal more emphasis on the historic resources. An interpretive trail was also mentioned which would connect the Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District with the Lees Ferry Historic District. The need for an amphitheatre in the campground was identified.
Many respondents felt that provisions for local school education programs at Lees Ferry should be provided, while others felt that these facilities should be located
on nearby National Forest lands where resources for education are more available.
ISSUE G; HOW SHOULD COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS BE MANAGED AT LEES FERRY AND ARE CONCESSION OPERATIONS NEEDED AND APPROPRIATE?
This issue includes the need to share raft rigging and boat launching facilities between commercial operations and the public. Some respondents felt that all commercial operations other than the Grand Canyon raft trips should be prohibited at Lees Ferry, while others felt that commercial operations should be expanded through concession operated boat rental and low impact camping equipment rental.
ISSUE TREATMENT
Some of the above issues are operational in nature, such as regulations of boat numbers and boat sizes on the Colorado River, coordination with the Arizona Game and Fish Department, and enforcement of fishing regulations. These operational issues are not addressed in this document but will be addressed by staff of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area during their daily operations.
Issues relating to camping and archeological sites along the Colorado River outside the development zone are addressed in the Upr iver Recreation Plan and Environmental Assessment for Lees Ferry.
The remaining issues formed the basis for alternatives considered in this environmental assessment. Each issue is addressed in the proposal or other alternatives.
CHAPTER II
THE PROPOSAL
INTRODUCTION
The proposal presented in this chapter constitutes the Park Service's proposed development concept plan for the Lees Ferry development zone. Other alternatives were developed to address the issues in various ways. Issues are displayed in Chapter I and descriptions of other alternatives considered are displayed in Chapter III. The alternatives have different emphasis. Consequently, each provides a different response to the issues.
This proposal provides for improved vehicular circulation patterns; improved camping, group use, and environmental education area; reduction of adverse visual impacts associated with facilities; relocation of the maintenance area; stabilization of Lees Ferry and Lonely Dell Ranch structures and implementation of a cyclic maintenance program; new visitor/administrative facility; interpretive trails and improved interpretive services; operation of Lonely Dell as a working ranch; and continuation of current commercial activities (i.e. fishing trips and river raft trips) .
VISITOR FACILITIES
Visitor Contact - Provisions for visitor contact and Glen Canyon/Grand Canyon administrative operations are provided in a 5 , 300-square-foot facility located between Lees Fort and boat launch ramps. This facility is designed to accommodate approximately 80 percent of the visitors during the peak-use season (May-July) , or about 470 visitors per day. Forty to fifty (40-50) single vehicle parking stalls serve the visitor contact facility, upriver bank fishermen, and other dispersed uses that originate from this area. A separate six-stall bus parking lot serves tour groups and recreation vehicles, and a six-stall administrative parking lot is provided.
The design concept applied to the visitor/administrative facility is one of the present to past. The visitor/ administrative facility is oriented so the more modern facilities associated with boat launching and parking serve the main entrance. After a tour through the
facility, the visitor can exit from the back and step into the past at the Lees Ferry Historic District.
Within the complex will be an information center, exhibit rooms, auditorium, rest rooms and 1,400 square feet of administrative facilities. The structure, built between the ramp area and the historic district, will create a "wall" between the two. The structure includes interpretive displays as well as observation areas which will allow the visitor to have a panoramic view of the historic district, river running operations as well as views upriver and the historic roads to the Lees Ferry crossing. The front of the building will include a "patio" area which may be used for outdoor display. The rear of the building will open onto the historic scene and the view upriver to the upper ferry crossing. From this historic area the view is of the visitor facility and river, with the launch ramp and parking area hidden from view. This helps the visitor more freely experience the history of the area.
The design concept applied to the visitor/administrative facility should be sensitive to the historic district. Design should be simple with exterior facades constructed of materials that repeat natural landscape characteristics while maintaining a "historic" appearance when viewed from the historic district.
Launch Ramp and Associated Facilities - The boat launching area is reconstructed following a- design concept that segregates upriver users from down river rafting activities. Defined vehicular circulation patterns are provided by distinct entrance and exit points to each launch ramp. Mixing of the two traffic patterns is avoided. Views from the access road are terminated by the proposed visitor/administrative facility. A reconstructed 20-25 stall parking lot serves the existing comfort station and overflow to the visitor/administrative facility.
Launch ramp parking is restricted to the long-term boat/trailer parking lot located approximately 1,000 feet west of the launching area. This existing facility is expanded to a total capacity of 150 stalls. During periods of peak use, this parking lot also serves as the visitor/administrative facility recreation vehicle parking lot.
To help minimize delays in boat launching, a boat ready area is provided along the access road. To serve river
10
running operations, a "throw down" camping area, with no developed facilities, is located west of the down river launch ramp.
Campground - The single family campground capacity of 56 sites is maintained; however, the land use base is expanded to alleviate congestion and enhance visitor experiences. Group sites are provided on a new campground loop that would serve special activities and environmental education programs. Each camp site includes a use area, picnic table, fire pit, and barbeque grill. The 200 seat amphitheater is relocated near the campground using rock faces of surrounding slopes as a backdrop.
Landscape management techniques are employed to reduce adverse visual impacts created by the campground. All facilities are painted with tones that repeat colors of the surrounding landscapes. New or reconstructed facilities use a rough textured surface to reduce and confine reflection. When possible, trees and other vegetation are used to provide shade rather than manmade shade structures.
Picnic Area - The existing 26 vehicle parking lot and sealed vault toilet are maintained at Paria Beach. New improvements include picnic tables and barbeque grills for 10-15 picnic sites. This area is within boundaries of Grand Canyon National Park expanded in the Grand Canyon Enlargement Act of 1976.
Group Use/Environmental Education - Facilities to accommodate these uses are provided in the new campground loop. Provisions that allow closing the loop to general public use when the area is reserved for groups are provided.
Trailer Dump Station - This facility is relocated near the campground to minimize visitor use in the National Park Service maintenance and residential areas.
CIRCULATION PATTERNS
Roads - Improvement of vehicular circulation patterns are not part of this proposal because they have been previously identified, but are summarized as follows. The main park access road is relocated to provide views of the Colorado River thereby enhancing visitor experiences. Visitor use through the maintenance and residential areas is avoided. All new intersections use a "T" approach.
11
Improvement of circulation patterns requires construction of .38 miles of road, reconstruction of .81 miles of road, obliteration of 1.15 miles of road, and construction of a new bridge across the Paria River. Access to the Lonely Dell Ranch is improved by paving .17 miles of the existing gravel road terminating at a 30-35 stall parking lot which serves the ranch but is located so as not to disrupt the historic scene.
Trails - Trail systems within the developed area are intended to provide a "link" of the Lonely Dell Ranch and Lees Ferry Historic Districts as well as access to outlying developed and dispersed areas. An interpretive trail, approximately .8 miles in length, with exhibits and waysides to interpret history of the area connects Lonely Dell Ranch with Lees Ferry and the visitor /administrative facility.
A trail from the visitor/administrative facility to the upriver ferry site crossing is provided using existing trail alignment where possible. This .9 mile trail is designed for the physically disabled and elderly with emphasis on interpretation.
The Paria Canyon Trail is marked and trailhead information and registration boards are provided within the developed area. The old sewage lagoon access road is rehabilitated and converted to a route to provide pedestrian access to outlying areas of Lees Ferry.
The Navajo Bridge Trail is closed. Commemorative plaques are removed and relocated to the proposed visitor/administrative facility with the consent of individual owners.
COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS
Commercial operations are restricted to Grand Canyon river running operations, and fishing guides and raft trips between the Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry.
INTERPRETATION
Interpretation at Lees Ferry will focus mainly on the history of the area from prehistoric time up to present day activities. Lees Ferry has a very rich and varied
12
historical background, which is one of the prime development objectives as stated in the General Management Plan for Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
The visitor contact station will be operated on a year round basis. The information center will be staffed from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., seven days a week, with the time expanded from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. during the periods of heavy visitation. The information available will be on Lees Ferry, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, regional parks, and the National Park Service in general. A sales outlet will be operated by the Glen Canyon Natural History Association.
Auditorium programs will be available throughout the operating hours. A special 20-minute, multi-media slide program or video program will be developed about Lees Ferry. It will include the entire human history of the area and the cultural, recreational, and natural significance of Lees Ferry. It will cover the river, Lees Ferry Historic District, and Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District. The program will offer a general orientation to casual and first-time visitors to the area. Other programs will be developed dealing with river orientation, fishing, historic figures, etc., for special tours, river runners, environmental classes, etc.
The exhibit rooms will deal primarily with the human history of Lees Ferry, starting with the Desert Culture (nomadic people) approximately 5000 BC - 2000 BC . It will carry through to the present including exploration, trapping, ferry crossing, ranching, Mormon expansion, mining, river runners, and U.S.G.S. operations. In addition, an exhibit on the natural history and recreational aspects of the area will be included.
The Lees Ferry Historic District will be presented to the visitor in two ways: guided tours and/or self guided wayside exhibits and pamphlets. The variety of subjects available on the 1.25-mile trail from the visitor contact station to the upper ferry crossing site encourages visitor involvement. They include petroglyphs, gold mining operations, steamboat operation, ferry operations, exploration, and river running.
The buildings in the area will be stabilized and presented through a series of wayside exhibits which recreate, visually and verbally, the way the area was at
13
the time they were originally used and their use in later operations. Some of the buildings could be refurnished to offer glassed-in viewing access.
The trail along the river from the fort area to the upper ferry crossing will be reconstructed to provide a walkway usable by the elderly and handicapped with appropriate rest stops and benches along the way. There will also be wayside exhibits to interpret the various points of historical interest along the trail. This trail will also provide access for fishermen to upriver bank fishing.
A trail will also be constructed to link the Lees Ferry Historic District with the Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District. This trail will lead from the visitor contact station, along the Paria River, to the Lonely Dell ranch. This trail will turn near the long-term boat launch parking lot. The Paria Wilderness trailhead will be relocated near the long-term launch ramp parking area. Parking for this trailhead is provided by the long-term parking lot.
The Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District will be developed as a working ranch. A bulletin board will be placed adjacent to the parking area just outside the ranch boundary and will include general information, ranch information, and safety information. A series of wayside exhibits will portray life on the ranch from the time it was founded by Lee to the time it was acquired by the National Park Service. These will be presented in a collage format. The topics will revolve around farming, hardships, existing structures, cemetery, and dude ranch activities.
The working ranch will be used as an interpretive feature. Programs will be presented in which people are active participants. School programs could be developed and presented on a prearranged basis during weekdays for nine months of the year. The outbuildings and portions of the ranch house will be individually rehabilitated and furnished for the appropriate period of use. Each of the periods will be distinct to show the variety of stages the ranch went through in its 100 year history. A full time person will be needed to operate the ranch and will live in the apartment attached to the Weaver ranch house. Management of the Ranch under the Historic Property Leasing or similar program will be explored. This will reduce NPS operating costs while ensuring protection of the animals and ranch and continued maintenance of the
14
facilities. This will also insure upkeep of the historic district and structures.
By creating a working ranch the Park will be able to present an active window on the history of the area. By using a variety of farming techniques (hand to modern mechanisms) the NPS will be able to portray the ranch in the various time periods from 1871 to 1974. In addition, livestock appropriate to the various periods will be maintained. In addition, agricultural production can be developed on 45 acres of farm land to help support the operation of the ranch.
A program of cyclic maintenance for the historic structures will have to be developed in accordance with NPS guidelines.
The launch ramp area will receive more formalized interpretation than at present. Interpreters will help out with boat checkouts, roving interpretation and will be available for guided tours through the two historic districts. There will also be a bulletin board complex at the launch ramp area. It will deal primarily with river safety and survival. Additional information will be offered on fishing, camping, hiking, and boating.
The amphitheatre will be used year round to present programs on various themes and sub-themes of Lees Ferry, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, and the National Park Service. Each of the programs will begin and end with appropriate safety messages. The body of the programs will address specific topics of interest to groups in the campground. Each season brings a variance in the type of camper (i.e. fishermen, river runners, etc. ) .
In addition to on-going evening programs, the amphitheatre will also be used for large group presentations (i.e. environmental education, school presentations, etc.).
Bulletin boards are a primary source of information to the visitor. Adequate numbers of boards, with professionally presented information, are essential. They should be considered an integral part of the overall interpretive and safety programs for the park. The format will be standardized and recognizable as a National Park Service installation.
The campgrounds receive fairly heavy visitation during the fall, winter, and spring months. It is an initial focal
15
point for late night arriving campers, fishermen, and hikers. Professionally presented, accurate information will be available at the entrance to the campground, the sanitary dump station, and the group loop area. This information will include registration procedures, water safety on the river, fishing regulations, area description, and evening programs.
Cultural Resource Management
Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District - The District will be operated as a working ranch under the Historic Property Leasing or similar program. The buildings will be rehabilitated and partially furnished with furniture of the period being interpreted. Some of the structures have been used over several historic periods. The area will be researched in depth to determine actual uses during the various occupations. A determination needs to be made as to the type of crops which were grown and the acreages cultivated. The orchard, which was planted in the 1960 's, will be replanted with fruit trees and several acres of the historically cultivated fields will be planted to a cash crop.
Those structures which will be rehabilitated and furnished include the small log cabin believed to have been built by John D. Lee, the blacksmith shop, root cellar, barn, and the Weaver ranch house. The locations of past corrals will be determined and they will be rebuilt. The foundations of the two houses which burned will be located and marked.
A cyclic maintenance program will be set up to assure proper maintenance of the historic and other structures and facilities within the historic district. This will be implemented upon completion of the rehabilitation of the structures.
Adjust Historic District Boundaries - Boundaries of the historic district should be analyzed and adjusted to delete areas not related to historic values and contain non-historic improvements.
Lees Ferry Historic District - The structures within the District will be stabilized to prevent further deterioration. Those structures to be stabilized include the Lees Fort, post office, Spencer building, and U.S.G.S.
16
building adjacent to the Spencer building. Also stabilized will be the chicken coop and corrals behind the fort. The remains of the steamboat "Charles H. Spencer" will not be stabilized, but left where they are in the river.
Archeological sites - Prehistoric and historic period archeological remains will be managed to protect their scientific and interpretive value. Prior to any development, cultural surveys and resource evaluation for the National Register of Historic Places will be carried out in accordance with Executive Order 11593, the 1966 National Historic Preservation Act as amended, and National Park Service historic preservation policies. All areas to be affected, either directly or indirectly, will be surveyed prior to any surface disturbance. All cultural resources will be avoided by development activities if at all possible, and mechanisms established whereby these resources will be protected (such as relocating project activities or fencing a significant site, etc.). However, if it is not possible to avoid known sites, mitigation work consisting of mapping, testing, excavation or other activities appropriate to the resource involved, will be carried out prior to any development.
If archeological remains are discovered during earth-disturbing activities, that construction work will halt until the resources can be evaluated by a professional archeologist and appropriate mitigation undertaken. Final reports documenting the measures taken to avoid and protect all known remains will be produced as part of the compliance activities .
Prehistoric sites could be included in new interpretive programs developed as a part of the overall expansion of the Lees Ferry visitor contact program. Interpretive themes can be directed at rock art sites or at a broader spectrum of archeological sites.
NATURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Coordination Requirements - Several other federal and state agencies have responsibilities on or adjacent to Lees Ferry. These include Grand Canyon National Park, the Bureau of Land Management, the Bureau of Reclamation, U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Arizona Game and Fish Department. Also, the Navajo Nation has responsibili- ties on lands adjacent to Lees Ferry.
17
Grand Canyon personnel are responsible for the check-out of all river trips through the Grand Canyon. Through a cooperative agreement between Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and Grand Canyon National Park, the area personnel assist each other as needed.
The Bureau of Land Management is responsible for the administration of areas surrounding the Lees Ferry developed area of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, and in particular, is responsible for the administration of the Paria Wilderness.
The Bureau of Reclamation administers the Glen Canyon Dam and is responsible for the flow regime of the Colorado River, determining and implementing the flows through the dam.
The U.S. Geological Survey monitors the flows of both the Colorado River and the Paria River at Lees Ferry. They maintain cableways across both rivers at Lees Ferry.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is responsible for threatened and endangered species in the area.
The National Park Service coordinates with the Navajo Nation in the management of the lands bordering the Lees Ferry area on the south side of the Colorado River. This land is a portion of the Navajo Indian Reservation.
Arizona Game and Fish Department manages the fish and wildlife in the area, particularly the trout fishery of the Colorado River. They manage a stocking program for this fishery.
Landscape/visual management - All architectural structures and landscape modifications will be designed to blend in with or compliment the historic districts and the surrounding natural characteristics of the land, taking into consideration mass, form, line, color, and texture. Reducing the visual impacts of facilities on the landscape can be accomplished by applying the basic principles of location, selection, screening, and confinement.
Location
Locating facilities using landscape management techniques is perhaps the most valuable tool available for reducing
18
adverse visual impacts. The location of a development affects earthwork and vegetation modifications and also determines whether the facility will be visually dominant. Visual dominance will usually result in a higher public awareness of manmade changes in the landscape.
The amount of disturbance to the existing soils and vegetation can create either a positive or negative deviation from the existing landscape. The extent of the impact is influenced by the severity of the alteration, as well as the overall size of the area disturbed. The configuration and color of manmade structures can also draw attention to a development or blend with the background. In all cases, the objective should be to minimize the amount of visual contrast with the existing environment .
Locating facilities on gentler slopes rather than steep slopes can reduce the area of disturbance. Small cut and fill slopes create less contrast in soil color and are less likely to result in erosion. Disturbed slopes that are laid back to blend with the existing slopes are easier to revegetate than steeper slopes.
Construction activities on steep slopes may require large near-vertical cuts and fills. Revegetation of these slopes is difficult and the contrast with the natural landscape creates adverse visual effects.
Locating facilities near unique landscape features should be avoided. Such vistas hold the viewer's attention for a long period, thus the visual disturbances become more obvious. Visual impacts and public awareness of landscape alterations can be minimized by locating facilities away from areas with repetitive or long viewing times.
Selection
Careful selection of the types of facilities and construction techniques used can reduce the disturbance of the landscape. Selection may involve specifying a type of facility whose characteristics - color, shape, size - repeat the characteristics of the surrounding natural landscape. Consideration must also be given to structure design and color to blend as much as possible with the characteristic landscape.
Landscapes dominated by vertical lines can be complimented with vertical formed structures, and landscapes dominated by horizontal lines can be complimented with low profile
19
facilities .
Bright colored facilities reflect light and usually contrast with the natural landscape's color and texture, creating undesirable visual impacts. This situation should be avoided.
Flat, dull colored facilities reduce light reflection and, therefore, reduce contrast with the landscape. A rough textured facade will also help reduce reflection.
Slope rounding and warping techniques can also be used during road construction. Slope rounding and warping techniques break sharp unnatural edges formed by cut and fill slopes. Warping can be used to add vertical diversity by varying the pitch of cut or fill slopes, thereby reducing visual impacts.
Screening
Full or partial screening of facilities from sensitive or dominant views can be used to reduce visual impacts. Screening is accomplished with vegetation, land forms, and manmade structures.
When full screening of activities is desirable, strategic location in conjunction with vegetation can be used.
Partially screening or baffling views with vegetation can be used to reduce visual impacts by breaking up unnatural lines and forms associated with some facilities. Vegetation also serves to confine reflection and to create a shade-shadow effect, producing texture on otherwise textureless surfaces.
If properly planned, manmade land forms or berms can be used for partial screening of facilities. Strategic location of excess soil can be a valuable tool to reduce visual impacts.
Confinement
Visual impacts are reduced by confining the facilities to the smallest area possible.
All of the proposed facilities in the recommended proposal are located in sites already disturbed and/or developed. Landscape/visual management techniques will be employed to
20
blend these facilities visually with the scenery and background or to make them less harsh and obtrusive.
The metal screens and shade structures at the campground will be replaced in part with trees, shrubs, and land forms to give the area a more natural appearance. The existing campground is highly visible from the access road, picnic area, ranger station, and the housing area. It will be highly visible, from the proposed realigned access road, being skylined. The shade structures are also highly visible being a turquoise color and a unique shape. By removing shade structure and wind screens, mass plantings, and minimal earth berms, the campground area should be almost totally hidden from the road. This same technique can be employed around the periphery of the NPS housing area to effectively screen it from most of the other developed sites.
The proposed maintenance area and water storage tank are located roughly between the campground and the housing area and are highly visible from both. The removal of the existing elevated water storage tank and construction of a new low-profile water storage tank will make this area much less dominant. This location is presently the site of the ranger station/visitor contact. With some berm work, physical screening as well as plant material, the maintenance area will be effectively screened from the campground and the visual impact greatly lessened from the NPS housing area.
The National Park Service housing area is located on a terrace overlooking the Colorado River. Because of this location, it is highly visible from several of the developed areas. It can be seen skylined from the launch ramp area as well as from the access road between the launch ramp area and the Paria River. It is visible from the campground and the existing access road as the visitor approaches the campground area. The existing housing units, except for the single wide trailer, are low profile and of a finish and color which blends them in with the surrounding area. The use of earth berms and strategically placed masses of vegetation will almost totally screen the housing area from the other areas.
The picnic area is located on the bank of the Colorado River, and because of the natural vegetation has very minimal visual impact on the surrounding areas of development. Some additional plantings of natural materials will maintain this screening.
21
The Lees Ferry Historic District has had development situated within its boundaries in the past. The original concession area, which included restaurant, store, gas station and trailers, was located here. When the concessioner was bought out, these facilities were removed, but the area was never restored. The comfort station and launch ramps are adjacent to the historic district and there is no visual separation of the uses. Under this proposal, the visual management will be the visitor contact facility itself. The building will be constructed of a material which is compatible in color and texture with the surrounding area consistent with NPS-28 guidelines. The building will serve as a visual and physical barrier between the launch ramp/parking activities (modern scene) and the historic scene. This will require the use of plant material as well as walls and/or fences.
The Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District is located at a distance from the other activities and is separated from them by the Paria River and natural vegetation. Because of this it has no visual impact on any of the other developments and is likewise unimpacted visually by them. The parking area serving this facility will be bermed and planted to hide it from the historic scene.
Rehabilitation Needs- - All those areas where roads are obliterated will be revegetated with native plant species as determined by the Resource Management Division. This revegetation work will include the scarifying of materials and the recontouring to as near an original grade as possible.
Other Elements - Tamarisk is an exotic species which has invaded disturbed sites at Lees Ferry. Selected areas will be vegetatively manipulated to make them more accessible to the visiting public. Tamarisk thickets will be thinned to select for larger individual trees. This will provide canopy cover for birds and wildlife and open understory for visitor use. The Resource Management Division will conduct studies into the most appropriate and cost effective techniques before implementing this program.
Administrative/Maintenance
Maintenance Area - This area is relocated to the site of
22
the existing visitor contact facility. The existing structure is approximately 1209 square feet and consists of 321 square feet of comfort station facilities, 287 square feet visitor contact area, 90 square feet of first aid room, 108 square feet of office space, 78 square feet of utility area, and 325 square feet of carport area. This structure will have to be modified and enlarged to provide approximately 1800 square feet of shop/warehouse area. This facility will include warehouse/storage; shop area with power equipment for carpentry, painting, plumbing and mechanical work; toilet and shower facilities; and office space. Approximately 1,000 sq. ft. of covered storage needs to be provided. Also included in this area will be approximately 800 sq. ft. of firehouse structure either as a part of the maintenance building or a separate facility. Gasoline and diesel fuel storage and dispensing facilities need to be included in the development, and the area needs to be fenced. Topographic and vegetative screening needs to be done to mitigate visual impacts. The water treatment plant will remain in its present location. The existing elevated water storage tank will be replaced with a ground level tank with the appropriate pumps to provide necessary water pressure. The new water storage tank will be located in the maintenance area.
Residential area - Employee housing is maintained in its present location . All trailers are removed. In addition to the three existing single family units, two 2-bedroom duplex units are needed for permanent employees and six 2-bedroom apartment units are needed for seasonal personnel. Included in this development is a multi-purpose children's play area.
Administrative Facility - The office needs for this proposal include the following :
Interpretation
1 office for two (2) permanent employees
2 offices for four seasonal employees (2 per office)
1 audiovisual/lab/library/program preparation area Visitor Protection
1 office for two (2) permanents
2 offices for 3-4 seasonal employees (2 per office) Administration
1 office for a clerk-typist with an opening to an information desk/reception area
Other
1 office mail, file, xerox, supply, etc
23
2 restrooms (1 male, 1 female)
1 break room with sink, refrigerator, soda machine,
microwave, table, chairs, etc.
The maintenance office will be in the maintenance facility.
Staffing Requirements - Following are the staffing requirements required for implementation of this proposal. These requirements recognize the use of volunteers and the Historic Property Leasing Program to operate Lonely Dell Ranch. These are staffing for Glen Canyon National Recreation Area needs only.
Permanent Employees
- Interpretation
Park Ranger GS-07 2 W.Y.
- Visitor Protection
|
Park Ranger Park Ranger |
GS-09 GS-07 |
1 1 |
W.Y. W.Y. |
|
- Maintenance Water Treatment Plant Operator Maintenance Worker |
WG-09 WG-08 |
1 1 |
W.Y. W.Y. |
- Administration
Clerk-Typist/Reception GS-04 1 W.Y.
Seasonal Employees
- Interpretation
Park Ranger (3) Park Ranger
- Visitor Protection
Park Ranger (2)
- Maintenance
Maintenance Worker (2) WG-05 1.5 W.Y
Fees
Establishment of a fee collection station just inside the area should be considered if legislation can be changed to
|
GS-05 |
1.8 W.Y. |
|
GS-04 |
0.6 W.Y. |
|
GS-05 |
0.8 W.Y. |
24
allow collection of fees. Location of the fee station should be near the current sewage lagoon access road intersection.
Construction Cost Estimates - Following are the gross construction cost estimates for development of Lees Ferry. These estimates are based on the October 1984, Class 'C estimating guide, Denver Service Center, National Park Service. Because road improvement needs were previously identified, they are not included as part of this proposal.
Visitor/Administrative Facility
5,300 square foot building $1,384,000
40-50 stall public parking lot 90,000
6 stall bus/RV parking lot 39,000
6 stall administrative parking lot 12, 000
River Launching Facilities
$1,525,000
- Launch Ramp Vehicular
Circulation Rehabilitation $ 150,000
- 20-25 stall comfort station parking
lot reconstruction 24,000
- 150 stall long-term parking expansion 494,000
- Boat Ready Area (6 units) 40,000
- Government Dock (4 boat capacity) 26, 000
$ 734,000
Trails
- .8 miles interpretive trail $ 58,000
- .9 miles Lees Crossing trail 55,000
- Paria Canyon Trail Signing 15 , 000
$ 128,000
Residential Area
- 2 duplex units $ 335,000
- 6 unit apartment 368, 000
$ 703,000
Maintenance Area
- 1,200 square foot shop rehabilitation $ 61,000
25
- 600 square foot shop new construction 83,000
- 1,000 square foot covered storage 36,000
- 800 square foot firehouse 29,000
- Maintenance yard fencing 18,000
- Fuel storage & Pumps 20,000
$ 247,000
Campground
- Rehabilitate existing area $ 45,000
- New campground loop 358,000
- New comfort station 65,000
- 200 seat amphitheater 40,000
- Relocate trailer dump station 51,000
$ 559,000
Picnic Area
- 15 picnic sites $ 19,000
$ 19,000
Lees Ferry Historic District
- Stabilize Spencer Buildings $ 73,000
- Stabilize Lees Crossing Ruins 25,000
$ 98,000
Lonely Dell Ranch Improvements
- Ranch cash crop field irrigation
system $ 32,000
- Weaver House Rehabilitation $ 102,000
- Stabilize Log Barn 36,000
- Landscape Rehabilitation 90,000
- Cemetary Fencing 4,000
- Weaver House Exhibits 32,000
$ 296,000
Utilities
- 150,000 gallon ground level
storage tank $ 265,000
- Septic systems 108,000
- 2,000 L.F. 6" Water distribution line 62,000
$ 435,000
GRAND TOTAL $4,744,000
Phasing - Following is the conceptual phasing program for
Lees Ferry. Elements of each phase should be
26
substantially completed prior to performing the elements of the next phases.
Phase I
Visitor/Administrative Facility, including 5,300 square foot structure, public parking, bus parking, and administrative parking $1,525,000
Maintenance Area, including 1,200 square foot shop rehabilitation, 600 square foot shop, 1,000 square foot covered storage, 800 square foot firehouse and yard fencing 247,000
Residential area including 2 duplex
units and 6 unit apartment $ 703,000
Lees Fort Stabilization and Lonely Dell Ranch improvements - Ranch irrigation system for cash crop 394,000
Utilities including water lines and
septic system 170,000
$ 3,039,000
Phase II
River Launching Facilities including launch ramp rehabilitation, parking, dock, and ready area $ 734,000
Historic Districts and Lees Crossing
trails 128,000
Campground with rehabilitation, group loop, amphitheater, and trailer dump station 559,000
Picnic Area rehabilitation 19,000
150,000 gallon ground level water
storage tank 265, 000
$ 1,705,000
Annual Operations and Maintenance Costs - Annual operations and maintenance costs required upon full implementation of this proposal is $485,000.
27
Major Compliance Responsibilities
1 . National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 ) - Compliance with this act is being accompanied through this public planning process, and the environmental assessment, which is tiered upon the recreation area's general management plan/FES.
2 . Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (16 U.S.C. 470), Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, and the Arizona State Historic Preservation Office - These offices will be" involved throughout the planning project reviews and consultations.
3. Bureau of Reclamation - The Bureau of Reclamation is being consulted during planning and will be asked to review the document as it relates to surface and subsurface water resources.
4. Aids to Navigation - The National Park Service will coordinate with the U. S. Coast Guard as it relates to the planning and implementation of the appropriate aids to navigation.
5. Section 404 Corps of Engineers - The National Park Services will coordinate with the Corps any clearances required for improvement of the water related facilities. This will be accomplished during the in-house and public reviews. Subsequent reviews will be required during the project design phases. With design plans for any element within the water zone, a construction permit will be required from the Corps.
6 . Section 7 of the Rare and Endangered Species Act of 1973~T"16 U.S.C. 1531") - U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Input was obtained during planning; however , review and consultation will be required during the official project review periods.
7. Executive Order 11988 "Flood Plain Management" - Even though the major development is not affected by any flood plain, the existing long-term parking lot is located within the Paria River 100 year flood frequency zone. When the final decision regarding this DCP is made, a Statement of Findings will be prepared as required by 45 FR 35916 and revised in 47 FR 36718.
There will be other permits to be obtained after plan approval at the time of design documentation associated
28
with drinking water safety.
sewage treatment, and health and
29
LEGEND
1
, \
— — ex^nMCf R»*/ep \*crc
_ tHK5TZ^«IC HI9*-I FLCVJ LCVCl,
^/ existing,- (suilpinIQ-, CtXAf&px <siatwn . *-K*+&e,
PROPOSED ACTIONS
(5V V«HKXe«-J
"ECeBWN Li»clhlCH ppBh. A*4P H**XJtt.<? WaulTTK. - kJIDCW UFfa^P LXJWCH l^'Mr', IMSWJ_ "TWTTC
fiee K»r*i 2 pep1 ce-eLofVteNT ccM=en*=0
dm© LOStr TCpM f^f^NSr CBTM-, Off-CITY iiiTU "Ifl/JUSf*^
'jxJGRu&r new oHr?^xiHP unf (wmoi am
ACK^M- Of^onV Of >S
fecf 29/. pecuas ^p/^&e vi&iA^ir
vH^TKxJr-Vafecj Z9/.
vl€UA<_ IMf*Cpe>
jo- 15 <3I1T5 FfcNIC- /â– ftE*' i f*W**r (2fa V&HO-Efe)
co>jm*xr sen psw^e ^jp p»»pw».Y <secrioM
with iwicfzf^.'prye
CONSTB-CT fcCIMrr /f^flMml '.MfiH AMD
2 curtey umit<5> , sa-teve s/]<3pme home t-WNTAiM
ftxa^swucr Pvcp fTSJMT f&W FfeE <3W°N 'SITE
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT
CONCEPT PLAN
LEES FERRY
GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA UTAH - ARIZONA
UNITED STATES
OF THE INTERIOR NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
- -
PROPOSED ACTIONS
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT PLAN
LEES FERRY
'.
ftsoviDe eep^STii:
lo-2ofT3eT"
Bo^r f^e^DY Ape^i
iiue MirWHZtN6r skSrTo <* MlNlMur^
Lc*T , FUNMec'
T2> uWec( DBju
tMTUTp& F&>\05NT\M-. p*fS>H t^frl
MAP 11.2
AREA SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS
LEES FERRY
GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA
UTAH - ARIZONA
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR NATIONAL PARK SI RVICI
608 80088- A JULY 1985 RMRO
TtpM FJ-ftUNG CjqtN«.|ON
. Ranch rtXBb& «J B°WilHSr
<^RUf CM^f&RCUND UCf
BW fwor Afccft
,m' - .
fcuruTfee i?e&ic«ntiac .fay. e?<r>NSf*-l
WMINTSTRffiWe £fFICO&/VI©<T<?Fl CENTfCT gulLDIN^- rtC pertf U^JHCH /-teeA,
AREA SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT CONCEPTS
LEES FERRY
GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA
CHAPTER III
ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED
INTRODUCTION
This chapter contains the descriptions of the various alternatives considered in this environmental assessment. The National Park Service proposal and preferred alternative is illustrated in Chapter II. Three other alternatives were considered. They are described below.
ALTERNATIVE FORMULATION
Each alternative addresses development and management of the Lees Ferry developed area. Following the identification of issues, the interdisciplinary team developed a series of management options that favorably address each issue. The management options were then grouped to form various alternatives. Criteria used to define each alternative were based on the intent or management emphasis provided by that alternative.
ALTERNATIVE DESCRIPTIONS
ALTERNATIVE A (Minimum requirements/no action)
This alternative maintains current conditions except for improvements necessary for cultural resource preservation and public health and safety. The description that follows provides a base to determine the relative merits of each alternative.
Visitor Facilities
Visitor Contact - Primary visitor contact is continued in a 1,209 square foot concrete block ranger station which includes comfort station facilities, utility chase, large room for visitor contact, small storage room, first aid room, carport area, and 22 vehicle parking lot. Grand Canyon orientation activities are conducted in a 1,536 square foot double wide mobile home located north of Lees Ferry's maintenance facilities. This facility is also used as a sales outlet by the Grand Canyon Natural History Association.
35
Launch Ramp and Associated Facilities - The launch ramp area is comprised of a two lane concrete upriver launch ramp, gravel surfaced river runners launch ramp, comfort station, courtesy dock, river runners "throw down" camping area, 21 (18 single vehicles, 3 buses) vehicle parking lot, and 89 (49 single vehicles, 40 vehicles with trailers) vehicle long-term parking lot located approximately 1,000 feet west of the launch ramp area.
Campground - Overnight use is provided in the existing 56 site campground with shade structures, metal wind screens, picnic tables, barbeque grills, and two concrete block comfort stations.
Picnic Area - The picnic area consists of a 26 vehicle paved parking lot overlooking the confluence of the Paria and Colorado Rivers. A solar pit toilet serves picnickers/sunbathers on a day use basis. There are no picnic tables or grills.
Group Use/Environmental Education - Designated facilities or areas for these uses are not provided.
Trailer Dump Station - The existing facility, located along the National Park Service residential area access road, is maintained.
Circulation Patterns
Roads - Current vehicular circulation patterns are maintained with 7.4 miles of paved road and 0.8 miles of gravel surfaced roads in the Lees Ferry development zone.
Trails - Trails maintained within the developed area include the undeveloped Paria Canyon Trail, the natural surfaced Lees Crossing access trail, and the natural surfaced Navajo High Bridge trail.
Commercial Operations
Commercial operations are restricted to Grand Canyon river running operations and fishing guides and raft trips between the Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry.
Interpretation
Current interpretive programs are maintained. These include: evening programs conducted at the amphitheater about 3 nights each week; guided interpretive walks
36
conducted 1 to 2 days each week within the Lonely Dell Ranch and Lees Ferry Historic Districts; launch ramp roving activities; and river boat checkout assistance. Interpretive developments include waysides along the entrance road and exhibits at the ranger station.
Cultural Resource Program
Cultural resource activities include stabilization of structures within the historic districts.
Administrative/Maintenance
Maintenance Area - Current maintenance facilities and their location are maintained. Existing facilities consist of a 11,520 square foot fenced maintenance yard, 480 square foot water treatment plant, 120 square foot maintenance shop, and 480 square foot storage shed. A 150,000 gallon water storage tower is located north of the ranger station.
Residential Area - Located south of the ranger station, this area presently includes three permanent concrete block houses and a single wide mobile home used for employee quarters. Currently, Glen Canyon and Grand Canyon personnel are stationed in this area.
Administrative Facilities - Glen Canyon administrative operations are conducted from the existing ranger station. Administrative operations for Grand Canyon raft trips are conducted in the visitor orientation mobile home.
Staffing Requirements - Current Glen Canyon National Recreation Area staffing levels include:
Permanent
Park Ranger
Water Treatment Plant Operator
GS-09 WG-09
Seasonal
Maintenance Worker Park Ranger Park Ranger
|
WG-05 |
0.6 W.Y. |
|
GS-05 |
0.5 W.Y. |
|
GS-04 |
0.4 W.Y. |
Current Grand Canyon National Park include:
taffing level!
37
LEGEND
eXOTNej- qtvwec op. Di|<rr f?c»*iD
«i«tin<% TfaMu
HK3T2^lC Hlq*-t PU?W LCVEL,
PROPOSED ACTIONS
&&>\\JIZ 5THJClUf=E6' WrlHIkl LONHT CELL- fV>WX
m? ia» fcfspr rtsr^ic t?(siP,iipS'
«.
^ERRY DISTRICT
LEES CROSSING ACCE86 TRAIL
â– (SPENCER
MAP III. 1
ALTERNATIVE A
LEES FERRY
GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA UTAH • ARIZONA
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT Of THE INTERIOR
PARK SERVICE
PROPOSED ACTIONS
„, , . . , . ...
.J"
ALTERNATIVE A LEES FERRY
Permanent
Park Ranger GS-07
Seasonal
Park Ranger GS-05 0.4 W.Y.
Utilities - Current utilities provided by the National Park Service include water, sewage, and trash removal. Electricity is provided commercially. Utility systems include:
- clear well water intake at the Colorado River
- water treatment plant
- 150,000 gallon water storage tower
- Lonely Dell Ranch irrigation system
- septic systems (two in campground, one at ranger station, two in residential area, one at maintenance area, two at launch ramps, and two at Lonely Dell Ranch)
- trash removal by Wahweap maintenance operation, hauled to the City of Page landfill.
A sewage system was constructed in 1971 to serve motel
hill with a lift station and 3-cell sewage lagoon. When
the concession operation was terminated by the concessioner, the sewage system became obsolete.
Cost Estimates - Gross construction cost estimate for implementation of this alternative is $40,000.
ALTERNATIVE B
This alternative includes provisions for improved visitor contact and interpretive services and a structured environmental education and group use area. Stabilization of the Lonely Dell Ranch and Lees Ferry Historic Districts structures is continued. A new 5,300 square foot visitor contact/administrative facility is constructed near the river launch ramps.
VISITOR FACILITIES
Visitor Contact - Provisions for visitor contact and Glen Canyon/Grand Canyon administrative operations are provided in a 5,300 square foot facility located near the river launch ramps. Included is parking for 40 single vehicles, 10 recreation vehicles, 6 buses, and 6 administrative parking stalls. The current Grand Canyon orientation
41
mobile home is removed from its site and the ranger station is converted to a group use facility.
Launch Ramp and Associated Facilities - These facilities are maintained in their current location. Partial reconstruction of the area is provided to segregate use of upriver and river runners launch ramps. Vehicular circulation patterns are defined to minimize user conflicts by construction of traffic control islands. Existing long-term launch ramp parking is expanded to increase capacity of 150 stalls. Delays in boat launching are minimal with construction of a boat ready area.
The "throw down" camping area, which serves river running operations, is maintained in its current location.
Campground - The 56 site campground and associated support facilities are rehabilitated to better serve todays larger recreation vehicles.
Picnic Area - The Paria Beach picnic area is maintained.
Group Use/Environmental Education - The current ranger station is converted to a facility to serve large groups with kitchen and dining operations. Other improvements include tent pads, campfire circle, and trail access to the amphitheaters.
Trailer Dump Station - This facility is maintained in its current location.
CIRCULATION PATTERNS
Roads - Current vehicular circulation patterns are modified by obliteration of the river front and motel hill roads. These roads are restored to a naturally appearing landscape. The Lonely Dell Ranch access road is paved and terminated by a 35 vehicle parking lot. Remaining roads within the developed area are maintained.
Trails - An interpretive trail, approximately .8 miles in length, is constructed to provide an interpretive link between Lonely Dell Ranch and Lees Fort. Remaining trails are maintained.
COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS
Commercial operations are restricted to Grand Canyon river runner activities, and fishing guides and raft trips between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry.
42
INTERPRETATION
Themes for interpretation encompass the Anasazi to present day river running operations. Interpretive exhibits are provided in the visitor/administrative facility. An interpretive trail with wayside exhibits provides pedestrian access between the Lonely Dell Ranch and Lees Ferry Historic Districts. A self guided tour is developed for Lees Fort and Lonely Dell Ranch. Evening interpretive programs are provided at the 200 seat amphitheater.
CULTURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT
Stabilization of the Lees Ferry and Lonely Dell Ranch structures are continued. Archeological site protection is provided through surveillance and public education interpretive programs.
ADMINISTRATIVE/MAINTENANCE
Maintenance Area - Maintenance facilities are expanded in their current location. Improvements include 1,200 square foot shop/warehouse, 1,000 square foot covered storage, 800 square foot firehouse, and gas and. diesel fuel storage tanks.
Residential Area - These developments are maintained in their current location. In addition to the 3 single family permanent housing units there is a need for 2 duplex units and a 6 unit apartment to serve permanent and seasonal National Park Service personnel. The existing mobile home is removed from site.
Administrative Facilities - Administrative operations are conducted in the proposed visitor/administrative facility located near the river launch ramps. 1,400 square feet serve the administrative function.
Staffing Requirements - Implementation of this alternative requires the following staffing additions:
Permanent
Interpretation
Park Ranger (2) GS-07
Visitor Protection
Park Ranger GS-07
43
LEGEND
mmmmm EXISTING,- P-Vgp fvrc
^•■fc tHK5TZ5(«!C HiqW FU*J LCVC(,
•^* BC^NGr tfcJlUPISK}-, OSMFE^T <3T*n<?N| H06+&6 <SHCD Cf? T^MLCf?
PROPOSED ACTIONS
CDHjVc^r ^DMiMi«TR«rivt ofTceavvierrep. cmvcr
ectlCATTON ffCIUTf
CBUTERNe MffTfcL, HM. *NP (eive^ HecsIT F<W>& «&sre>fJe
TO kJAfcipm. *fpo^ziM% ConpiTIom
osmyow corpcr <3T*notg (-rpMLctef63^^
MAP 111.2
ALTERNATIVE B
LEES FERRY
GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA
UTAH ARIZONA ED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
608 I 80085 A _
JULY 1<*85 |rMRO
wri&^ssr
ALTERNATIVE
LEES FERRY
Maintenance
Maintenance Worker WG-08
Administration
Clerk Typist/Receptionist GS-04
Seasonal
Interpretation
Park Ranger GS-05 1.8 W.Y.
Park Ranger GS-04 0.2 W.Y.
Visitor Protection
Park Ranger GS-05 0.3 W.Y.
Maintenance
Maintenance Worker WG-05 0.9 W.Y.
Utilities - Under this alternative the existing water storage tank is retained. Utility improvements include:
water distribution lines to the proposed visitor/administrative facility
- septic system for the visitor/administrative facility
- improved water distribution to the maintenance area
- improved septic system at the maintenance area
- additional septic systems at the residential area
- increased water distribution systems to the residential area
Cost Estimates - Gross construction cost estimate for implementation of this alternative is $3,814,000.
ALTERNATIVE C
This alternative provides for improved vehicular circulation patterns, segregation of downriver and upriver users, provisions for structured environmental education and group use, improved camping facilities, relocation of the maintenance area, continued stabilization of Lees Fort structures, and operation of Lonely Dell as a working ranch. Interpretive services are improved with a new visitor/administrative facility, interpretive trails, and expanded interpretive program.
Visitor Facilities
Visitor Contact - Provisions for visitor contact and Glen
47
Canyon/Grand Canyon administrative operations are provided in a 5,300 square foot facility located north of Paria Beach. Included is parking for 40 single vehicles, 10 recreation vehicles, 6 buses, and 6 administrative parking stalls. The existing Grand Canyon orientation mobile home is removed from its site.
Launch Ramp and Associated Facilities - Boat launching is provided in two separate locations . Launching for river running raft trips is provided near the proposed visitor/administrative facility located in close proximity to Paria Beach. Included is parking for 20 vehicles and a "throw down" camping to serve river running operations.
The upriver boat launch is maintained in its current location. Long-term parking capacities are expanded to 150 stalls. To help minimize delays in boat launching, a boat ready area is provided along the access road. The current gravel river runners launch ramp is restored to a natural appearing landscape.
Campground - Current campground capacity of 56 sites is maintained ; however, the land base is expanded to alleviate congestion and enhance visitor experiences. A 200 seat amphitheater is located near the campground using rock faces of surrounding slopes as a backdrop.
Landscape management techniques are employed to reduce adverse visual impacts created by the campground. All facilities are painted with tones that repeat colors of the surrounding landscape. New or reconstructed facilities use a rough textured surface to reduce and confine reflection. When possible, trees and other vegetation are used to provide shade rather than manmade shade structures.
Picnic Area - A 10-15 site picnic area is constructed near Lees Fort to serve day use activities. Included are grills, picnic tables, and shade structures. The existing comfort station and 26 vehicle parking lot are used to serve this area.
Group Use/Environmental Education - Facilities to accommodate this use are constructed on "motel hill" overlooking Paria Beach. Included are camping loops, campfire area, and comfort station.
Trailer Dump Station - This facility is relocated near the campground to minimize visitor use in the National Park Service maintenance and residential areas.
48
Circulation Patterns
Roads - Improvement of vehicular circulation patterns are not part of this alternative because they have been previously identified. They are summarized as follows. The main park access road is relocated to provide views of the Colorado River thereby enhancing visitor experiences. Visitor use through the maintenance and residential areas is avoided. All new intersections use a "T" approach. Improvement of circulation patterns requires construction of .38 miles of road, reconstruction of .81 miles of road, obliteration of 1.5 miles of road, and construction of a new bridge to cross the Paria River. Access to the Lonely Dell Ranch is improved by paving .17 miles of existing gravel road terminated by a 35 vehicle parking lot.
Trails - Trail systems within the developed area are intended to provide a "link" of the Lonely Dell Ranch and Lees Ferry Historic Districts as well as access to outlying developed zones. An interpretive trail, approximately .8 miles in length, with exhibits and waysides to interpret history of the area connects Lonely Dell Ranch with Lees Fort.
The Paria Canyon Trail is marked. Trailhead information and registration boards are provided within the developed area. The old sewage lagoon access road is rehabilitated and converted to a route to provide pedestrian access to outlying dispersed zones and the Lees Ferry area.
The Navajo High Bridge trail is closed to public use. With consent of individual owners, the commemorative plaques are relocated to the proposed visitor and administrative facility.
Commercial Operations
In addition to the existing commercial operations provisions for limited commercial expansion are provided. They include relocation of the downriver launch ramp for Grand Canyon river runner trips and a small facility located near the proposed visitor/administrative facility with camp store operations and fast food services.
Interpretation
Themes for interpretation encompass the Anasazi to present day river running operations. Interpretive exhibits are
49
provided in the proposed visitor/administrative facility. The 200 seat amphitheater is constructed near the campground. An interpretive historic trail with wayside exhibits provides access between the Lonely Dell Ranch and Lees Ferry historic districts. Self-guided tours are developed around Lees Fort and the Lonely Dell Ranch is rehabilitated and operated as a working ranch.
Cultural Resource Management
Emphasis is towards the Lonely Dell Ranch and Lees Ferry Historic Districts. Structures at Lonely Dell Ranch are rehabilitated and operated as a working ranch. Archeological sites are protected through use of surveillance and interpretive programs to educate the public.
Administrative/Maintenance
Maintenance Area - Maintenance area facilities are relocated to the site of the existing ranger station; however, water treatment facilities are maintained in their current location. The present ranger station is expanded to 1,800 square feet for a shop/warehouse. Other needs at the maintenance area include 1,000 square foot covered storage, 800 square foot firehouse, and gas and diesel fuel storage tanks.
Residential Area - These developments are maintained in their current location. In addition to the three single family permanent housing units, there is a need for 2 duplex units and a six unit apartment to serve permanent and seasonal National Park Service personnel. The existing mobile home is removed from site.
Administrative Facilities - Administrative operations are conducted in the proposed visitor/administrative facility located near the river launch ramps. 1,400 square feet serve the administrative function.
Staffing Requirements - Implementation of this alternative requires the following staffing additions:
Permanents
Interpretation
Park Ranger (2) GS-07
Visitor Protection
Park Ranger GS-07
50
Maintenance
Maintenance Worker WG-08
Administration
Clerk Typist/Receptionist GS-04
Seasonal
Interpretation
Park Ranger GS-05 1.8 W.Y.
Park Ranger GS-04 0.2 W.Y.
Visitor Protection
Park Ranger GS-05 0.3 W.Y.
Maintenance
Maintenance Worker WG-05 0.9 W.Y.
Utilities - Under this alternative the existing water storage tank is replaced with a ground level storage facility to reduce adverse visual impacts. Other utility improvements include:
water distribution lines to the proposed visitor/administrative facility
- septic system for the visitor/administrative facility
- improved water distribution to the maintenance area
- improved septic system at the maintenance area
- additional septic systems at the residential area
- increased water distribution systems to the residential area
- septic system for the relocated trailer dump station
Cost Estimates - Gross construction cost estimate for implementation of this alternative is $5,360,000.
51
LEGEND
ife
»;
i.
,*«
!.*•
EXKSTlNef P**ED |<0°0 CXKTTTKk^ OfWCL. of o\fV Rn^D
tim&fic. HI^M Fl^W LCVBC
PROPOSED ACTIONS
awd THfajW ta*JM" os^riKk^ /f«A
|trt*M=. eXK5TT^ fM^ikKr LOT , IKSSiaiee T« MWRJP*-
/YTO^INGf OOkDlTjbKl
SMM1MW EXl&TTsi* cpteivcp. ixjWOH fW /+JP
FH^Mtr lot , poeT&Pfc pNCp (ajUMep* 1/hjNCH
P**jT AMD THftaW «?WN" <i^iMRMdr /^SB"? To
construct NEW ON'ir'fqrtetxiNC' Locf (wmcH g*N AccoMMoO-TIfe <^f^MT 0*Mf*& ; , MAH^lM oMiqeeNT CH&&U- C/Xf>CJTT' OF »l» -SITe^
ReCtte
DCVGLCf
ffTO^fyMCr Condition CON<5rf<McT NEW «£X&=? fff-c
c#&sfc. t- ."Mateo \<-ntf&e£T\o>je? cDHtsmJCV nch pf?i«^e ,*md f^a^pwsr <56siwn
MAPtt f*3A CAMYON Tf9ML- . PKOVIPE TRMLHCAO lNfoRH*^?K| AND (2B^(STRMlCN pa^pp^
g&Veiu We. o'lC <seW«ae u^oou r<x&*=> fo*i coMvtpr to feeo^lKv^i Tf*Mu^o_e6e faa_fie
«ST ^HPHiTi^BScp
^tabiuzb <5T*ucTufeee> iJrrHiM lbes. ttfl<2Y HKffTofeic
2 cuptey curre
PEMMNlMq- â– STRMdaiees
fecoMerfecCT PNtp- FKetfT rasp
^
MAP 111.3
ALTERNATIVE C LEES FERRY
GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA UTAH - ARIZONA
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
608 1! 1985 | f
'm »
'Us
PROPOSED ACTIONS
|
«,s„4M | •■<-- |
|||
|
•wtSSSJStoR1 |
<"^~ [district 1 |
||
|
*& |
_J<v, \ l;- |
||
|
j*y0/ |
y p$, yv*' |
||
|
ill ""jREaJ |
. NPsLaINTENANCE AREA |
||
|
^#^^ |
-JsS^vâ„¢^""'1'"' |
||
|
^g^^^ |
J |
H4CM AW A |
|
|
%ii |
|||
■^'•;^;-^:^'^,
,_7
ALTERNATIVE C
LEES FERRY
ALTERNATIVE A
SUMMARY COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVES
ALTERNATIVE B ALTERNATIVE C
NPS PROPOSAL
VISITOR CONTACT
Continued in 1,209 sq. ft. ranger station.
Grand Canyon River orientation in existing mobile home.
5,300 sq. ft. visitor /administrative facility near launch ramps with 56 public parking stalls.
5,300 sq. ft. facility Same near Paria Beach with 56 public parking stalls.
LAUNCH RAMP
CAMPGROUND
Maintain concrete upriver ramp and gravel surfaced river runners ramp.
Ramp parking capacity - 21. Long-term parking capacity - 89.
Maintain 56 sites.
Partial reconstruction River runners launch
to define vehicular circulation patterns.
Ramp parking with visitor /adminis- trative facility.
Long-term parking capacity - 150.
Same as "A"
ramp relocated to Paria Beach with 20 stall parking, old launch ramp removed .
Upriver launch ramp maintained, long-term parking capacity - 150.
Campground area Campground area expanded, but capacity expanded, but 56 site maintained at 56 sites, capacity maintained.
200 seat amphitheater relocated.
Includes loop for group use and provisions for reservations. Also, includes tables, grills, fire pits, barbeque grills, and shade trees.
200 seat amphitheater relocated.
PICNIC AREA
Paria Beach facilities maintained.
Relocated near Lees Fort with public tables, grills, shade trees.
Current Paria Beach facilities maintained.
Improvements include picnic tables, grills, and shade trees for 10-15 picnic sites.
GROUP USE/
ENVIRONMENTAL
EDUCATION
No facilities for this use.
Ranger station and surrounding area converted to serve groups. Includes tent pads and group campflre circle.
Located on Motel Hill with camping loops, campflre circle, and comfort station.
Provided in new camp- ground loop with provision to close to general public use when reserved for groups.
TRAILER DUMP STATION
Existing location maintained.
Same as "A"
Relocated near camp- ground.
Same as "C"
Current patterns maintained.
Remove riverfront and motel hill roads.
Lonely Dell Ranch access road paved and terminated by 30-35 vehicle parking lot.
Main park road Same as
relocated to riverfront area, portions of old road removed.
Lonely Dell Ranch access road paved and terminated by 30-35 vehicle parking lot.
Existing trails maintained.
Interpretive trail between Lonelly Dell Ranch and Lees Fort provided. Remaining trails maintained.
Interpretive trail between Lonely Dell Ranch and Lees Fort provided.
Paria Canyon Trail marked and trailhead provided.
Same as "C" plus the following: Lees Crossing access trail reconstructed for use by disabled and elderly.
Navajo High Bridge trail closed to public use.
COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS
Restricted Canyon Riv< operations and upriver fishing guides and raft trips between Lees Ferry and Glen Canyon
Grand Same as "A" running
Grand Canyon River running operations.
Small camp store and fast food operation.
SUMMARY COMPARISON OF ALTERNATIVES
ALTERNATIVE A
ALTERNATIVE B
ALTERNATIVE C
NPS PROPOSAL
INTERPRETATION Current programs Themes encompass
maintained; amphi- Anasazi to present day
theater presentations, river running
historic district operations. Exhibits
interpretive walks, provided in visitor/
launch ramp roving. administrative facility.
Same as B"
Amphitheater programs guided and unguided trail tours.
CULTURAL RESOURCES
Continue structure stabilization, surveillance of archeological sites.
Continue stabilization of Lees Fort structures.
Lonely Dell Ranch rehabilitated and operated as a working ranch.
MAINTENANCE
Maintain current facilities; 480 sq. ft. water treatment plant, 120 sq. ft.
maintenance shop, 480 sq. ft. storage shed.
Expand in current location with 1,800 sq. ft. shop /warehouse, 1,000 sq. ft. covered storage, 800 sq. ft. firehouse, fuel storage tanks.
Relocate to site of existing ranger station. Expand ranger station to 1,800 sq. ft.
Additional
improvements include 1,000 sq. ft. covered storage, 800 sq. ft. fire house, and fuel storage tanks.
RESIDENTIAL
Maintain current facilities; 3 permanent residences, 1 mobile home.
Expand with 2 duplex units and 6 unit apartment. Remove mobile home.
Same
Same as "B"
ADMINISTRATIVE
GLCA functions in Ranger Station, GRCA functions in orien- tation mobile home.
GLCA and GRCA Same as "B" located
functions in visitor/ near Paria Beach, administrative facility (1,400 sq. ft.)
STAFFING UTILITIES
4.9 FTE's
Maintain current systems; well water Intake, water treat- ment plant, 150,000 gallon water storage tower, Lonely Dell Ranch irrigation system, septic systems.
11.7 FTE's
Improve water distribution 6ystem with 6" lines.
3 additional septic systems.
Same as "B"
Improve water distribution system with 6" lines.
4 additional septic systems.
Replace water storage tower with 150,000 gallon ground level storage tank.
Improve water distribution system with 6" lines.
3 additional septic systems.
Replace water storage tower with 150,000 gallon ground level storage tank
CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATE (gross)
56
CHAPTER IV
AFFECTED ENVIRONMENT
INTRODUCTION
This chapter summarizes the current physical and biological characteristics of the Lees Ferry area. It also summarizes visitor use data as well as local and regional land uses and facilities. This chapter describes those aspects of the environment likely to be affected by either the proposed action or the alternatives to the proposed action including the areas of major concern identified by the public. Broad discussions of the affected environment are included in the 1979 General Management Plan/Final Environmental Statement for the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
NATURAL RESOURCES
Geology - Soil
The Lees Ferry developed area is situated on alluvial plains created by the deposition of materials and the geologic formation created by the confluence of the Colorado and Paria Rivers. It is a relatively open stretch of about two miles and separates Glen Canyon from Marble Canyon. Although it is an open area, it is far from level. It is surrounded on all sides of the Colorado and Paria Rivers by towering cliffs, rocky pinnacles, deep gulches, and rough mesas. It is a green oasis in the midst of the harsh, arid high desert country. The rocks of the area belong to the Permian, Triassic, and Jurassic periods. Red sandstones and shales are the predominate element with thinner layers of limestone, conglomerate, and gypsum. Navajo sandstone, Kayenta sandstone, Moenave sandstone, Chinle formation, and Moenkopi shale are all visible at Lees Ferry. Kaibab limestone first appears at river level along the Colorado River near its confluence with the Paria River. Navajo sandstone predominates in the gorge of Glen Canyon forming spectacular red cliffs and walls. The red sandstone colors the towering cliffs which vary from red to purple and almost black where water trickles down the faces. Great masses of rock have fallen from the cliff faces forming over-arching amphitheatres which are a conspicuous feature of the area.
Many of the soils on the talus and other slopes are composed of residual materials from the exposed rock and
57
possess relatively little organic matter. The flat lands along the rivers have been formed by depositions of the silt laden water of the rivers. These alluvial soils are fertile and currently support a lush riparian community. All soil types found in the area are highly erosive.
Vegetation
The Cottonwood-Willow-Saltcedar floodplain (Hayward et al. 1958) occurs over many miles of canyon bottom throughout Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. This is the association most likely to be affected by development at Lees Ferry.
The dominant species of this riparian association are Sandbar Willow, Gooding Willow, Baccharis, Saltcedar, and Arrowweed. In addition to the major species, many minor species mix with them. On narrow terraces, or where steep hillsides closely approach the river banks, Gamble Oak and Hackberry extend to and sometimes become a part of this community. More rarely the large Fremont Cottonwood may also be found.
Smaller shrubs, herbs, and grasses are more sporadic members of this community and may occur scattered or in locally dense stands in open spaces where the continuity of the dominant shrubs and trees is broken. Most frequent among these smaller members are Saltgrass and Slender Dropseed, both of which may form small meadow-like stands in open spaces. A wild rose and two species of squawbush also occur occasionally in this community along with plants from the drier parts of the terraces. Mosses and liverwarts are frequently found on damp sand or clay, or where water washes over bare rock surfaces. The upland benches support a desert shrub community with Blackbrush as the dominant species.
Pediocactus braydi, an endangered species of cactus can be found in the area. This species is limited to a particular type of soil. Its zone extends from Lees Ferry south into Grand Canyon National Park and onto adjacent BLM lands. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates that the habitat includes only about 20 sq. kilometers.
Hydrology
The Colorado River historically had annual floods of 80,000 to 100,000 cu.ft./sec. with occasional years in
58
excess of 200,000 cu.ft./sec. when excessive runoff occurred. The Colorado River, which is now regulated by Glen Canyon Dam, has an average stream flow of 11,000 cubic feet per second and ranges from 1,500 to 30,000 cubic feet per second at Lees Ferry. In 1983 a record 93,000 cu.ft./sec. was released from the Glen Canyon Dam. Normal releases can be expected to average around 40,000 cu.ft./sec. during the spring runoff. Water temperatures here range between 45 and 50 degrees F. The Paria River, which flows into the Colorado from the north, generally flows a few inches deep except during the spring runoff or summer thunderstorms which can cause flash flooding.
The Lees Ferry developed area currently gets its water from the Colorado River. The Lonely Dell Ranch has an acguired water right to Paria River water which historically has been used to support farming and orchard operations.
Map IV. 1, the flood hazard map, illustrates flooding hazards at Lees Ferry. The sparse cover of vegetation permits the water from storms to runoff quickly, and as a result, flash floods may occur.
Air
Lees Ferry lies within the Four Corners Air Quality Control Region. The area has little industry and a relatively low population with a small amount of vehicular use. Analysis of air quality data concludes that the air quality of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is excellent, especially in comparison with the air in cities. Air quality excellence decreases near local air pollution sources such at' automobiles, motorboats, and the coal-fired Navajo Generating Station. Lees Ferry is located within a Class II airshed. Occasional regional decreases in air quality occur during periods when concentrated air masses move in from the west.
Wildlife and Fish
The riparian and adjacent upland communities at Lees Ferry, because of the plentiful cover, large variety of available food and proximity to water, provides suitable habitat to a relatively large variety of wildlife. Snakes and amphibians found in the area include Black-tailed rattlesnake, Grand Canyon rattlesnake, Great Basin rattlesnake, western ground snake, gopher snake, garter
59
GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA UTAH - ARIZONA
United States Department of the Interior - National Park Service
608 80089 AUG 85 RMRO
(Hani m
snake, milk snake, Great Basin spadefoot toad, red-spotted toad, Woodhouse's toad, common tree frog and leopard frog, desert banded gecko, Upper Colorado River chuckwalla, spiny lizard, collared lizard, and lesser earless lizard. Larger animals which may be found at Lees Ferry include coyote, red fox, gray fox, kit fox, ringtail cat, raccoon, badger, western spotted skunk, striped skunk, bobcat, and beaver. Small mammals include white-tailed antelope squirel, desert kangaroo rat, and cottontail rabbits. There are also several species of bats which are plentiful within the area. There are a great number of birds at Lees Ferry including such predatory species as the sparrow hawk and the redtailed hawk and a large population of wintering waterfowl, especially the Canada Goose.
Both the peregrine falcon and the bald eagle can be found in the Lees Ferry area. The peregrine falcon is known to nest in the nearby cliffs, while the bald eagle can occasionally be seen as a wintering resident. Both are listed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as endangered species. The golden eagle is a year round resident and is known to nest in the area.
Because of abundant food and escape cover, the area is excellent Bighorn Sheep habitat. In 1984 Arizona Game and Fish Department established two herds of bighorn sheep in the Lees Ferry vicinity. Twenty sheep were planted in the Paria Canyon and at Fisher Spring, which is above the existing housing area and campground. These herds are becoming well established along the Paria River and Vermilion Cliffs.
The Paria River is one of the few desert river systems in which aquatic habitat alteration has not occurred. The river currently maintains viable populations of speckled dace, flannelmouth suckers, blue-head mountain suckers, and razorback suckers. The last two are listed as threatened by the State of Arizona and are being considered for threatened or endangered status by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Since the closing of the flood gates of Glen Canyon Dam in 1963, characteristics of the Colorado River have changed dramatically. The sediment laden cold in winter to warm in summer river water has been replaced with a very clear, perpetually cold (45 to 50 degree F ; 7 to 10 degree C ) water. The native fish which depended upon the temperature fluctuation for breeding have disappeared. Rainbow and cutthroat trout have been stocked since the early 1970' s. The fishing at Lees Ferry has developed
63
into a major trophy rainbow trout fishery. The Arizona Game and Fish Department plan to maintain an active stocking program.
CULTURAL RESOURCES
Archeological
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area's cultural resources have remained relatively unknown. The desert barrier, which made the canyon "the place no one knew," provided protection from "pot hunters." About 30 miles downstream from Lees Ferry, in Marble Canyon, several split willow twig figurines have been found. Radiocarbon dating has placed their age at 4,000 years old. No other material has been found which identifies their makers. It is believed that the makers of these figurines belonged to what is known as the Desert Culture.
By the dawn of the Christian era another group of indians was living on the mesas near Lees Ferry. These peoples were the Basketmakers , who eventually learned to make pottery and became known as the Pueblos. These people are generally referred to as the Anasazi . They did not depend exclusively on hunting and food gathering, but developed cultivated crops such as corn, squash and beans. From the physical evidence, it appears that the Anasazi population was sparse in the early stages of habitation and then expanded dramatically beginning about 1000 A.D. They built many stone and adobe structures, some as cliff dwellings within the canyons, but most on the high rimlands. These structures served as dwellings, storage bins, and ceremonial rooms.
Although water and farm lands were available and plentiful at Lees Ferry, the physical evidence of Anasazi occupation so far uncovered indicates that occupation within the immediate vicinity was light. Two small ruins were located near the mouth of the Paria River which dated from 1100 to 1150 A.D. There are numerous petroglyphs on the canyon walls between the Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry as well as up the Paria Canyon, within 3 miles of the mouth of the Paria River.
Although prehistoric ruins at Lees Ferry are scarce, there are many ruins on the Paria Plateau immediately to the west. It is projected that the density of the ruins found may be as great as ten sites per square mile. Near the end of the thirteenth century the Anasazi abandoned the canyon country and moved to the south. About a hundred
64
years later the Southern Paiute, close relatives of the Utes began moving into the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. These were the Southern Paiute, close relatives of the Utes. Evidence shows that by that time there were some Paiutes in the Lees Ferry area.
There are no archeological sites currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The eligibility of archeological sites is presently unknown.
Historical
The first written record of white men to see Lees Ferry was the diary of the Dominguez - Escalante expedition in 1776. Two Franciscan priests, Fray Francisco Atanasio Dominguez and Fray Silvestre Velez de Escalante, set out from the Spanish settlement of Santa Fe in late July 1776 to find a northern trail to Monterey in California. Leaving Santa Fe the group traveled northwest into what is now Colorado, then went north and finally turning west into what is now Utah. At Utah Lake they turned south to reach the latitude of Monterey. In the vicinity of the present day Cedar City, they were struck by an early winter storm. As they were still hundreds of miles from California, the decision was made to return to Santa Fe . They chose to return by a more direct, but unexplored, route. They traveled south beyond the Virgin River and finally turned east across the present Arizona Strip. Their journey was guided by vague information and stories of a crossing of the Colorado River. They reached Lees Ferry in October 1776 and realized that it was not the river ford they were searching for, and worse, that it might be a giant cul-de-sac with no way out. The group spent several days at Lees Ferry in futile attempts to cross the Colorado River. Finally the group moved up the Paria Canyon and found a route over the Echo Cliffs, eventually crossing the Colorado River about 45 miles north of Lees Ferry at what is now called The Crossing of the Fathers.
The next recorded history of Lees Ferry was by the Mormon church. After 1847 the Mormon Church began expansion of their frontiers outward from Salt Lake City. Brigham Young, President of the church, set up a program of vigorous expansion towards the south and west. It was felt that it was important to settle in warmer climates and have an ice free route to California. The next eleven years saw the settlement of numerous towns as far south as St. George and Kanab. These became the hubs for further expansion into Nevada and Arizona. In the Book of Mormon
65
the Indians are called "Lamani tes" , peoples who have fallen from the faith in the ancient past. Missionary work was therefore one of the first efforts in a new area to bring the indians back into the faith. This would not only save souls, but would make it safe for the settlers coming into the area. In 1858 the church sent Jacob Hamblin, a well known Indian missionary, to make contact with the Hopi Indians and try to convert them. The Hopi, living southeast of the Colorado River in towns, were farmers and peaceful. Hamblin and a group of 12 men set out with an Indian guide who claimed to know where the ford across the Colorado River was. They ended up at Lees Ferry and had to go up the Paria Canyon to the pass which was discovered and used by the Dominguez expedition almost a hundred years earlier. Hamblin was unsuccessful with trying to convert the Hopi and returned to Utah after a few days visit at their village. A year later Brigham Young ordered another missionary attempt, again sending Hamblin. Following the same route as the previous year, the group reached Lees Ferry where they camped near the mouth of the Paria River. One of the party wrote in his diary that the area could be used for farming as there was plenty of water for irrigation. During this second mission, the Hopis were noticeably less friendly. Two of the men stayed through the winter, but the Hopi would not provide any food or shelter. Undaunted, Hamblin decided on a third trip the following year and brought along enough food and essentials to last a year. Hamblin realized that if his men and their baggage could ford the Colorado River at the mouth of the Paria River, they could save a great deal of time and effort. Therefore, the party started out with a 16 foot boat loaded on a wagon. However, the trail became too rough, and the boat and wagon had to be abandoned. When they reached the mouth of the Paria River, a crude raft was constructed; a few men barely made the crossing and a horse was drowned. Hamblin decided it was too dangerous and the group continued on to the "Crossing of the Fathers". On this trip the Mormons had their first encounter with the Navajo Indians. Accosted by a band of Navajo, Hamblin had to give up some of the trade goods intended for the Hopi . One of the group was separated from the party and shot by the Indians. Hamblin gave up hope of reaching the Hopi and turned the group around and returned to Utah. This was the first clash between the Mormon Church and the Navajo Indians.
In 1860 the Navajo Indians were practically at war with the United States Army because of the numerous raids made on New Mexico settlements. To escape the army raids, many
66
of the more warlike Navajo were moving into the canyon country. The Navajo surrendered in 1864 and were rounded up and sent to New Mexico to a "camp". Many Navajo escaped the roundup and fled to the remote canyons of the north and joined those who had already settled there. These Navajo began making raids into Utah driving off hundreds of cattle, horses, and mules. In 1864 the Mormon Church called on Jacob Hamblin to reach the Navajo and warn them to stop their raids into Utah. Hamblin went by way of Lees Ferry in the spring of 1864 and again in the fall of the same year. Both trips failed to uncover any Navajo Indians. However, the raids continued. In October of 1869 Hamblin again made a trip to locate the Navajo. This time his men built sturdy rafts and made the crossing safely. Thus began the ferry operation at Lees Ferry. At the time it was called the "Pahreah Crossing". That same month Hamblin posted guards at the Lees Ferry crossing to watch for marauding Navajos. The guards built a small stone building here and named it Fort Meeks. It was probably located near the site of the Dominguez campsite almost a hundred years earlier. It was in August of this same year that Major John Powell made camp at Lees Ferry. It was the first trip through the Glen and Grand Canyons by boat. The following year Powell returned to the area to plan a more extensive second voyage. He met with Brigham Young in Salt Lake City to get the backing and cooperation of the Mormon Church. Brigham Young agreed to cooperate and offered to explore part of the canyon country with Powell and an expedition was set up for September 1870. Powell and Young were joined by a group of about forty other Mormons. Among the group was John D. Lee, an important figure in the Mormon Church, and the man for whom Lees Ferry received its name. John D. Lee was one of the leading colonizers of southern Utah and helped establish the towns of Parowan and Harmony and later pioneered in Utah's "Dixie" area.
In 1847 and 1848 thousands of Mormons moved west from Missouri and Illinois to escape religious persecution. They settled in Utah and carved out numerous prosperous communities, but could never escape the persecution. As a result, relations with the Federal Government deteriorated.
In 1857 the Federal Government sent a force of 2500 men to depose Brigham Young as Territorial Governor and to enforce Federal authority. As this army approached, the Mormons were preparing for war. Emotions were running high. In late summer of that year a wagon train of emigrants arrived in Salt Lake City. There were about 140
67
men, women, and children in the group, headed for California. The wagon train encountered problems as they traveled south from Salt Lake City. The Mormons refused to sell them provisions and the emigrants retaliated with abusive language. The Mormons accused the emigrants of turning their cattle into the cultivated fields and intentionally fouling water sources. As tensions mounted, the emigrants seemed to symbolize all of the injustices the Mormons had suffered. The Paiute Indians and the Mormons had entered into a pact to become allies in the event that war broke out with the Federal Government. Seeing the animosity between the Mormons and the emigrants, the Indians wanted to attack the wagon train. The wagon train camped for several days in an area called Mountain Meadows before starting across the desert. The Mormon leaders in Cedar City, about 20 miles east of Mountain Meadows, decided that the emigrants would not be allowed to escape and directed the Paiute Indians to attack the train. John D. Lee was told by the Mormon Church stake president to "manage" the Indians. Although Lee objected, he felt he could not refuse as the stake president was not only his religeous superior, he was also Lee's military superior in the Mormon militia. The Indians, given approval by the Mormon Church, attacked the wagon train but were driven back. However, they kept the wagon train under siege. When Lee arrived on the scene, the Indians said that if the Mormons did not assist them in another attack, they might make war on the Mormons themselves. On or about September 11, 1857, about 50 Mormon men, under the leadership of Lee, convinced the emigrants that they could safely lead them through the Indians if they would lay down their arms and give their cattle to the indians. The emigrants agreed and were escorted out by the Mormons who turned on them and killed all but the youngest children. This incident became known as the Mountain Meadow Massacre. It was not until May of 1859 that rumors of the massacre prompted a U.S. Army detachment to investigate. The site was visited and the atrocity was confirmed. A year later, after a hearing on the matter in Parowan, a report was issued which stated, "It is reported that John D. Lee and a few other white men were on the ground during a portion of the combat." From this initial accusation, charges of his involvement grew until he was the scapegoat for the incident. In late 1870 the Mormon Church was forced to excommunicate Lee for his part in the massacre. This was just after his trip to the upper Paria with Brigham Young and John Powell. He was sent an anonymous letter saying, "Trust no one. Make yourself scarce and keep out of the way." In the fall of 1871 Lee was sent by the church to the mouth of the Paria
68
to establish a ferry crossing of the Colorado River. Traveling down the Paria Canyon with one of his sons, two other men and seventy-five head of cattle, Lee reached the Colorado River on December 12. He then had to travel to the Kanab area to get one of his wives, Emma, and bring her back to Lees Ferry. He reached Lees Ferry with Emma the day after Christmas. Emma's first comment was, "Oh, what a lonely dell." Lee was moved by this and decided that he would call the farm Lonely Dell. Lee and some of his sons built several wood and stone structures at Lonely Dell, some of which stand today. In the fall of 1872 the Mormon Church sent lumber and a crew of Mormons to Lees Ferry to build a real ferryboat. The boat was completed and launched on January 11, 1873. By this time the church had decided that the Arizona territory was ready for Mormon settlement and the call went out from the church to settle Arizona. Thus, the ferry became a vital link between Utah and Arizona and the Mormon traffic between the two. In 1874 the Mormon Church ordered the construction of a trading post built at Lees Ferry. The purpose of this structure was to provide a place for the Navajo Indians to trade with the Mormons and at the same time keep them out of the Utah settlements to the north. It was built to also provide fortification in the event of an indian attack. Lee was gone from Lees Ferry a great deal of the time, much of it spent at Moenave where he had set up a small ranch. He was still a wanted man and spent most of his time in hiding. Emma had to carry on alone at Lees Ferry much of the time. On November 7, 1874, Lee was finally captured at Panguitch while visiting one of his wives. Lee went on trial in July 1875, but the jury could not reach a verdict and a second trial was held in September 1876. At the second trial Lee was convicted. On March 23, 1877, Lee was executed at Mountain Meadows. Emma Lee continued to live at Lees Ferry until May 1879, when the Mormon Church bought the ferry rights from her for $3,000.
In October 1873 the Mormon Church sent Warren Johnson to Lees Ferry to help run the ferry as Lee had to spend so much of his time in hiding. He took over the operation of Lees Ferry after Emma Lee left in 1879. Johnson lived at Lees Ferry with his two wives and children until 1896 when he moved to Wyoming. The church replaced Johnson with a man named James Emett. Emett made many improvements to the ferry operation as well as the road serving the ferry.
Lees Ferry had been a vital link between the Mormon settlements in Arizona and Utah. By 1900 the expansion of the railroads eliminated the need for the Lees Ferry as
69
most of the travel was done by train. Although the distance by train was much longer, the time required was much less than the historic wagon road. By 1909 use of the Lees Ferry was almost entirely local in nature. The Mormon Church decided that it no longer needed the ferry and sold it to the Grand Canyon Cattle Company. In June 1910, Coconino County bought the ferry from the Grand Canyon Cattle Company. The ferry operation continued for the next 18 years. The State of Arizona began construction of a steel arch bridge across the Colorado River at Marble Canyon in June 1927. On June 7, 1928, an accident occurred in which three men were drowned while trying to cross the river on the ferry. The ferry was swept downstream into Marble Canyon and lost. The ferry was never rebuilt as the bridge was completed in January 1929. The completion of the bridge ended the need for ferry service at Lees Ferry.
On July 1, 1889, three boats carrying 16 men appeared at Lees Ferry. The party had boated down the Colorado River through Glen Canyon. The group was surveying for a railroad route from Grand Junction, Colorado to the lower Colorado River and then a route across southern California to San Diego. Leading this party was Robert B. Stanton, a civil engineer who was convinced that a "water level" route was possible and feasible. After two accidents in which three men died, Stanton abandoned his trip. Stanton, by this time, was completely sold on the idea of a watergrade railroad through the canyons. He convinced a group of New York financiers to back a second expedition. This second expedition started out from North Wash at the head of Glen Canyon on December 10, 1889. They reached Lees Ferry on December 23 and stayed to spend Christmas. Stanton completed this trip as well as the initial survey of the railroad route, but was unable to find any backers for the millions of dollars it would cost to construct this railroad.
While in Glen Canyon, Stanton had noticed fine gold particles in the sand of the river bed. When he was unable to get backing for his railroad idea, he decided to set up a placer operation for the extraction of the gold. He boated up and down Glen Canyon staking for his placer operations and even constructed a short stretch of road above the Lees Ferry. This operation was a failure. There was gold present, but it could not be extracted because it was so fine.
Eight years later, Charles H. Spencer and his men set up a crusher and amalgamator on the San Juan River, about 125
70
miles north of Lees Ferry. The purpose of this was to remove the gold from the rock. They were attempting to extract the gold from the Wingate formation. After much testing, it was decided that there was as much if not more gold in the Chinle formation, just below the Wingate formation and that the Chinle formation was much softer and could be easily loosened with water. ,As the Chinle formation is exposed at Lees Ferry, it was decided to move the operation to the Lees Ferry area. There was also a source of coal located just to the north in Warm Creek. A boiler and pumps were installed to provide high pressure water to sluice the shale. The next step in his operation was to provide the coal to fuel the boilers. Spencer had his men build the "Spencer Trail" to the canyon rim about 1500 feet above the mining operation site at Lees Ferry. The idea of this trail was to have mules haul coal to operate the boilers. The trail never was used to haul coal. Finally, a steamboat constructed in San Francisco was dismantled and hauled to the mouth of Warm Creek where it was reassembeld. The steamboat was christened the Charles H. Spencer. The boat made it to Lees Ferry with no mishap. However, the return trip to Warm Creek took almost all of the coal the boat could haul, leaving no coal for the operation of the boilers at Lees Ferry. Spencer then had a barge constructed which could be hauled by the steamboat to Warm Creek and let float on its own down to Lees Ferry. This seemed to work and there was sufficient coal for the operation. But Spencer was never able to extract the gold from the Chinle. The mercury amalgamators quickly clogged and would not absorb the gold. The operation was abandoned and the Charles H. Spencer left tied to the river bank. In 1915, flood levels of the river caused the boat to become snagged on driftwood. As the river level subsided, the boat tipped over and sank.
In the mid 1930 's Leo Weaver and his wife bought the ranch and built the long stone house which still stands. They attempted to operate a dude ranch. They sold the property to Gus Griffin in 1937. It was later bought by a group of people. The wooden frame portion of the ranch house was built sometime in the 1950' s. Sometime in the early 1960's the existing orchard was planted. The National Park Service acquired the property in 1973 and it became a part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.
On March 15, 1976, the Lees Ferry Historic District was established on the National Register of Historic Places. The Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District was entered on the National Register on May 19, 1978. Map IV. 2 displays the
71
L.--
/*-&
NPJfADMINISTRATIVE A /fFICES'VISITOR
<fc /"^ONTACT STATION
---^
— r
^
71
.ONELY DELL RANC
HISTORIC i I DISTRICT J
H*
LONELY DELL RANCH HISTORIC DISTRICT
^IVER LAOWCM AMA
LEES FERRY HISTORIC DISTRICT
f
1
ft
£S1
IK
north
7,
no scale
<4
MAPiV.2
HISTORIC DISTRICTS
LEES FERRY
GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA UTAH - ARIZONA
United States Department of the Interior - National Park Service
608 180090 AUG 85 RMRO
relationship of these Historic Districts to the Lees Ferry developed area. There are no known archeologic values re- lated to structures of the Historic Districts.
VISITOR USE DATA
One of the intents of this planning effort is to identify the appropriate facilities and levels of development required to preserve and interpret Lees Ferry's resources with minimal adverse impact. An analysis of visitor use characteristics must be developed to determine development needs and potential impact levels.
Visitation occurs at Lees Ferry on a year round basis. The heaviest visitation occurs from March through October when the commercial river running trips are in progress.
10 Year Summary
Year Visitation % changt
1975 60,098 + 4.8
1976 95,731 +59.0
1977 82,952 -14.0
1978 58,334 -30.0
1979 70,317 +20.5
1980 94,575 +34.5
1981 146,880 +55.3
1982 162,582 +11.1
1983 112,689 -31.0
1984 133,184 +15.0
In 1981 the visitor counting techniques were revised. In 1983 the river was closed to boating for part of the year because of the high water releases.
73
1604
140
120
100
1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984
ANNUAL VISITATION 1975 - 1984
LEES FERRY
GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR - NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
Monthly Summary 1984 1983 1982 1981 1980
|
January |
5,498 |
5,597 |
3,703 |
2,686 |
2,558 |
|
February |
8,125 |
6,894 |
7,470 |
3,358 |
3,039 |
|
March |
11,479 |
11,468 |
8,852 |
5,430 |
5,536 |
|
April |
10,311 |
9,588 |
16,152 |
9,471 |
6,856 |
|
May |
27,428 |
18,052 |
19,066 |
17,779 |
9,838 |
|
June |
13,972 |
4,069 |
23,676 |
18,438 |
13,180 |
|
July |
11,376 |
9,320 |
23,672 |
20,170 |
12,259 |
|
August |
8,117 |
9,976 |
19,126 |
19,577 |
13,911 |
|
September |
7,638 |
10,989 |
15,432 |
21,221 |
9,842 |
|
October |
15,720 |
10,688 |
12,609 |
15,146 |
8,435 |
|
November |
9,690 |
7,436 |
7,773 |
9,038 |
5,719 |
|
December |
3,830 |
5,612 |
5,051 |
4,566 |
3,402 |
|
Activities |
There are four (4) major activities which attract visitors to Lees Ferry at the present time. The greatest attraction is the fishing. Lees Ferry has gained a reputation as one of the best trophy trout fishing areas in the country. It is widely known throughout Arizona and Utah. A great number of the fishermen using the area are considered to be "locals", from within a 300 mile radius. The second major activity at Lees Ferry is the river running activity. This accounts for approximately 40% of the visitor use at Lees Ferry. The third activity is camping. During the majority of the year, April through October, the campground is used by people passing through the area between National Park areas or by "snow birds" going from the warmer winter areas to the cooler summer areas. The fourth major activity is the historical scene or story. Some of the visitors to the area are there just to learn about the history of the area or are descendants of the Lees or Johnsons. The Lee family has been holding an annual family reunion at Lees Ferry for the past several years.
Visitor Origins
Approximately 40% of the visitation to Lees Ferry is river running related. These visitors are from all over the United States as well as from foreign countries. Approximately 50% of the visitors to Lees Ferry are fishermen. The remaining 10% of the visitors are generally on the way through the area between Grand Canyon north and south rims or other National Park Areas. The visitors tend to be from all over the United States. A
75
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUNE JULY AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC
MONTHLY VISITATION 1984
LEES FERRY
GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR - NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
study was conducted by Northern Arizona University School
of Forestry on visitor characteristics from September 1982
to May 1983. This study focused on fishermen only. The
results of the study showed that approximately 72% were
from Arizona, 12.5% were from Utah, 5.8% were from
California and 3.8% were from Colorado. The study also
showed that for approximately 92.4% of the fishermen Lees
Ferry was their destination with 7.6% stating that Lees Ferry was a stop on a longer trip.
Demand Projections
Visitation to the Lees Ferry area has been somewhat erratic over the last 15 years. There has been an overall increase of approximately 231.5% in that time period. A good deal of the increase is due to the development of the trophy trout fishery. In 1978 the limit of trout was reduced to 4 . It is anticipated that the State of Arizona will further reduce the limit to 2 and place some type of restriction on lures/bait within the next year. This will most likely have the effect of reducing the visitation through a reduction of fishermen and/or length of stay. However, with the development of the historical interpretation of the area and development of interpretive facilities, a new type of visitor to the area is anticipated. There has been an increase in the number of tour groups visiting Lees Ferry as a stop for through traffic. With the increase and development of the historical themes and facilities, there will be an increase in this type of visitation. There has also been an increase in the number of river running trips through the Grand Canyon as the season is extended, mainly by private trips. This increase in trips should continue. There has also been a tremendous increase in the number of raft trips from the Glen Canyon Dam to Lees Ferry. It is anticipated that these trips will continue to increase in popularity and be expanded. Some trips currently offer overnight camping. It is anticipated that the visitation to the Lees Ferry area will continue to grow at approximately 10% per year.
Safety Hazards
The safety hazards are those associated mainly with this type of desert environment. There is always a danger of falling from cliffs in the canyon country, particularly while climbing and hiking. There is also a danger from the typical poisonous animals in the desert environment.
77
There are numerous scorpions within the Lees Ferry area, including the more venemous centruoides scorpion. There are numerous black-widow spiders. Rattlesnakes are also present in the Lees Ferry area. Probably the most hazardous aspect of 'the Lees Ferry area is the river. The temperature of the water is fairly constant and varies from 45 to 50 degrees F. between winter and summer. The reason for this is the fact that the water released from the Glen Canyon Dam comes from the lower region of Lake Powell where the water is always cold. This cold river water is hazardous in that hypothermia is a danger any time of the year. Many visitors are unaware of this condition. The water is also swift and care must be taken to maintain control of the boat and not be swept downriver into Marble Canyon. During the spring months, March through June, the releases from the dam can be high depending on the runoff to the north. The lake level must be maintained and releases depend on the inflow. Releases can cause surges as they are increased. This affects boats upriver mainly. Flash flooding can be expected at Lees Ferry during heavy summer thunderstorms. Occasionally this causes mud and/or debris to block the roads and could conceivably cause a vehicular accident. There is also a hazard from the extreme heat experienced during the summer months. Temperatures are often in excess of 110 degrees F. and can cause problems for hikers who run out of water or those simply not used to high heat and necessary precautions to prevent heat stroke or heat exhaustion.
Facility Analysis
Campground - The campground consists of 56 sites with shade structures, metal wind screens, picnic tables, and barbeque grills. The shade structures and wind screens are in very bad condition from abuse and vandalism and need to be repaired or replaced. There is no real planting in the campground and the irrigation system needs to be replaced. There are two (2) septic systems which are working well. There are two (2) concrete block comfort stations in the campground which are in good shape .
Ranger Station - The ranger station consists of a concrete block building of 1,209 sq. ft., including comfort station facilities, utility chase, large room for visitor contact, small room for storage, first aid room, and carport area where the existing fire pump is housed. There is a paved parking area to accommodate 22 vehicles. The ranger
station is a portion (1/3) of the original design which was to include an outdoor display area, a museum area, and amphitheatre complex. The remaining structure was to be built at a later date. The existing structure is in good condition. The existing 150,000 gallon water storage tank is located behind the ranger station.
Housing Area - The housing area is located directly across the access road from the ranger station, between it and the Colorado River. There are three (3) permanent houses, concrete block construction. Two of these were built by the National Park Service and the third was constructed by the U.S.G.S. for their use when they had a permanent man stationed at Lees Ferry. The U.S.G.S. turned their house over to Glen Canyon National Recreation Area when they moved their operation out of Lees Ferry in 1978. The condition of these houses is good. There is a single wide trailer within the housing area which is used for seasonal quarters. This single wide is in poor condition. The National Park Service housing area is highly visible from the campground, access road, ranger station, and launching/parking area at the Colorado River. When the initial development was designed, there was still a strong possibility that the Marble Canyon Dam would be built. Because of this, all of the development was placed above the projected high water level of the reservoir which would be created by this dam.
Motel Hill - This area is situated on a mesa overlooking the Colorado River just below its confluence with the Paria River. The area was leveled and road access constructed to it in 1971. At that time water, sewer, and electric utilities were extended to the site. A lift station/wet well was installed and sewer lines were run to the old maintenance area, where a three-cell sewage lagoon system was also constructed. This development was constructed to serve a concession motel/restaurant complex which was planned. Since then, all of the concession activities within the Lees Ferry developed area, with the exception of the river running activities, have been abandoned and bought out by the National Park Service. When the concession activity ceased, the lagoon cells were converted to a land fill operation.
Picnic Area - The picnic area consists of a paved parking area overlooking the confluence of the Paria and Colorado Rivers. The parking area will accommodate 26 vehicles and is used mainly by picnickers/sunbathers on a day use type basis. There are no picnic tables or grills.
79
Maintenance Area - The maintenance area consists of approximately 11,520 sq.ft. of fenced (8-foot chain link) area containing a 480 sq.ft. water treatment plant, a 120 sq.ft. maintenance shop, and a 480 sq.ft. storage shed. There is also a clear well for the operation of the water treatment plant. The water treatment plant has recently been rehabilitated and is in good condition. The shop is in fair condition, and the storage shed * is in poor condition.
Grand Canyon Contact Station - Adjacent to the NPS maintenance area is a 1,536 sq.ft. double wide trailer which was rehabilitated by Glen Canyon National Recreation Area staff to serve as an orientation facility and offices for the Grand Canyon personnel at Lees Ferry. This facility also houses the Grand Canyon Natural History Association sales outlet and is utilized mainly for orientation for private river trips through the Grand Canyon. This structure is in poor condition.
Long-Term Parking - The long-term parking lot is approximately 1,000 feet from the launch ramp area. This lot is paved with curb and gutter. It will accommodate 49 single vehicles and 40 vehicles with trailers. It is designed for use by those visitors going upriver to fish or camp or on river trips through the Grand Canyon.
Launch Ramp - The launch ramp area is comprised of a two-lane concrete launch ramp and a gravel surfaced launch ramp. The concrete ramp is for the use of the general public for launching boats to go upriver to fish or camp. The gravel ramp is for use by the river runners for rigging their rafts and loading. The two ramps are separated by raised islands which separate the two types of use. At the head of the launch ramp area is a paved parking area for 18 single vehicles and 3 buses. There is also a comfort station with a septic system adjacent to the parking lot. The comfort station is of concrete block construction and is in good condition. There are also 80 feet of floating courtesy dock at the foot of the concrete launch ramp. This courtesy dock is in very poor condition. The State of Arizona has authorized funds under its State Lake Improvement Funds for the replacement of the courtesy dock unit. This should be accomplished in the near future. This parking area was designed to provide parking for those visitors to the historic district and not by the boating public. The river users were to utilize the long-term parking lot.
30
Lees Ferry Historic District - Adjacent to the launch complex is the Lees Ferry Historic District which is comprised of numerous stone structures. The most important of these structures is the Lees Fort, which was built by the Mormon Church in June 1874 to serve as a trading post and also a fortification in the event of an Indian attack. A short distance west of the fort is the post office. This structure was constructed somewhere around 1913 and was the official post office for Lees Ferry until 1923. Further upriver and closer to the river's edge is the Spencer building. This building was constructed as part of the "industrial area" by Charles Spencer to process gold from the Chinle formation. A short distance away from the Spencer building is a small stone building of a more modern appearance. This structure was built by the U.S. Geological Survey in the 1940 's to provide a place to stay for their people who were monitoring the Colorado and Paria River flows. Also in this historic district are relics from the times of the gold mining operations. There is a boiler which was used to provide steam power as well as the sunken hull of the Charles H. Spencer.
Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District - Lonely Dell, the name given to the ranch Lee settled with one of his wives at the direction of the Mormon Church in December 1871. There are four (4) structures remaining from the late 1800' s; a log cabin, a blacksmith shop, a barn, and a root cellar. There are also the foundations of two houses built by Warren Johnson which burned. The existing stone ranch house was built in 1935 by Leo Weaver and operated as a dude ranch and residence. The house and property were sold to Gus Griffin in 1937. It was later sold to a group of owners who used it as a farm and weekend retreat. A wood structure was added to the house in the late 1950' s and is not of historic significance. The orchard was planted sometime during the 1960 's. All of the structures are in poor condition and need stabilization and/or restoration. There is also a cemetary with markers dating from 1874 through 1928. There are also the remains of an irrigation system and flumes which carried water from the upper reaches of the Paria River to the ranch and fields.
Roads - There are a total of 8.21 miles of roads at Lees Ferry, 7.42 miles paved and 0.79 mile of graded road. These figures include the equivalent miles for parking areas and pull-off s. Main access road - 5.78 miles, good condition; River Drive - 0.54 mile, poor condition; campground access and loop roads - 0.52 mile, fair condition; picnic road - 0.27 mile, fair condition;
81
residence access road - 0.24 mile, fair condition; Lonely Dell ranch road - 0.57 mile, poor condition, maintenance access road - 0.07 mile, good condition; lagoon access road - 0.22 mile, poor condition.
Trails - There are three (3) trails within the Lees Ferry developed area. One is located at the pull-off at the Navajo High Bridge and leads to the canyon edge where there are several plaques commemorating river running. This trail is rough and in poor condition. If all of the plaques are removed to a display area near the launch ramp area, the trail could be closed. One trail leads into the Paria Canyon and Primitive area. This trail has recently been relocated but is in poor condition. The third trail is within the Lees Fort Historic District and leads from the fort area to the upper ferry site. It is used by fishermen for access to bank fishing as well as for its historical value. This trail is very primitive and in poor condition.
Utilities - Utilities provided by the National Park Service include water, sewage, and trash removal. Electricity is provided commercially by the Arizona Public Service. The water system consists of a clear well water intake in the Colorado River piped directly to the water treatment plant for treatment and disinfection. From the water plant the water goes directly to the Lonely Dell Ranch or to the water storage tank behind the ranger station. There are two lines to the Lonely Dell Ranch. One follows the road crossing the Paria River attached to the bridge and then to the ranch along the ranch road. The second line was recently installed and goes directly from the plant and under the Paria River to the ranch road and then along the shoulder of the road. The new line is strictly for irrigation. There is a line directly from the water treatment plant to the launch ramp area. The distribution line from the water tank serves the residential area, the ranger station, and the campground. There is a water line from the residential area down over the hill to the picnic area and then up to motel hill. The sewage systems at Lees Ferry are all septic systems. There are two septic systems in the campground, one at the ranger station, two in the housing area, one at the maintenance area, two at the launch ramp area, and two at the Lonely Dell Ranch. All of these systems are functioning properly. A sewage system was installed at motel hill which includes a lift station and wet well. The lift station connects with a 3-cell sewage lagoon complex located in the old maintenance area. This sewage system was constructed in 1971 and was intended to serve a
82
LEGEND
— EXienNCr R-wet? pot?
= cxi^wq. qrvwn. <?f? Di^r zero
■h ■HK5T21«IC HI^M FL^W UCVCU
■/ EXKSpNCr RJILCHNS-, COMfeftr «!ATI<7N +-*X*&6
MAP IV.3
EXISTING CONDITIONS LEES FERRY
GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA UTAH - ARIZONA
EO STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
60g|8009IA JULY 1»»S IRMRO
$
.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
LEES FERRY
motel/restaurant complex which was planned by the concessioner. When the concession operation was terminated by the concessioner and bought out by the National Park Service, the sewage system became obsolete. The park decided to utilize the lagoons for a land fill operation as the existing area was totally used up, and the existing and projected development and facilities could be handled by the septic systems. The land fill operation was subsequently terminated and trash hauling is done by the Wahweap maintenance operation. All trash is hauled to the City of Page land fill. The A.P.S. electric lines are basically overhead and are highly visible in some spots.
Regional Facilities and Land Uses
Lees Ferry is located just off what is termed the "Golden Circle" or "Grand Circle Adventure", a 1200 mile route through northern Arizona and southern Utah. This route encompasses Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Grand Canyon National Park (north rim), Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Capitol Reef National Park, Natural Bridges National Monument, Hovenweep National Monument, Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Navajo National Monument, Canyon DeChelly National Monument, Pipe Springs National Monument, and Cedar Breaks National Monument. There are also numerous State parks, monuments, and historic sites within this region. The Arizona Office of Tourism, Utah Travel Council, and Colorado Tourism Board are all promoting this "Circle" to increase tourism within their respective states. Lees Ferry is on the direct route from the south rim of the Grand Canyon to the north rim of the Grand Canyon and receives a good deal of overnight camping by visitors between the two sites. The Lees Ferry area is high desert with sparse vegetation, averaging only about 5 inches of rain annually. The land around the area is Navajo Indian Reservation or Bureau of Land Management administered land. The nearest community of any size is Page, Arizona located 50 road miles away and having a population of approximately 7,500. Flagstaff, Arizona is 135 miles to the south. Areas of major populations are more distant: Phoenix, Arizona 278 miles south; Salt Lake City, Utah 380 miles to the north; Las Vegas, Nevada 289 miles west; Los Angeles, California 570 miles west; Albuquerque, New Mexico 381 miles east; and Denver, Colorado 598 miles northeast. Promotion activities for this "Grand Circle Adventure" have already had the effect
85
of increasing tourism in the entire general area and many tours are already booked. These activities are bound to have an influence in the increase of the visitation to the Lees Ferry area, particularly when interpretive facilities are developed. Lees Ferry has a very varied and rich historical background and will undoubtedly draw more visitors. There is an airport at Page which has commuter airline service on a limited basis.
A good deal of the surrounding area is utilized for grazing under grazing allotments from the BLM. There is also a buffalo ranch nearby. Lees Ferry is accessible mainly by vehicle from U.S. Highway 89A. There are no other roads into the Lees Ferry area. However, Lees Ferry can be reached by hiking through the Paria Canyon or down the Spencer Trail from atop the cliffs overlooking the ferry crossing area. Both of these trails are very strenuous and somewhat dangerous. There are also raft trips from the Glen Canyon Dam to Lees Ferry.
There are few landscape alterations to detract from the visual quality of the surrounding lands and spectacular views of breathtaking desert scenery. The potential to pollute the water and air is minimal because of the light use the area receives. One exception to this is the coal-fired Navajo Generating Station located near Page, Arizona. Potential to degrade the air quality at Lees Ferry does exist from this facility.
Other Influences
There are several commercial developments within the immediate area of Lees Ferry which offer visitor services, some on a seasonal basis and some year round.
Cliff Dwellers Lodge is located approximately 9 miles west of Lees Ferry on U.S. 89A. This facility consists of an 11 room motel, restaurant, service station, and minimal camper's grocery store. This facility is open all year. The owner has plans to expand this facility within the next 5 years.
Vermilion Cliff Lodge is located approximately 5 miles west of Lees Ferry on U.S. Highway 89A. This facility consists of 4 to 8 rooms available seasonally and 5 rooms open year round. There is also a restaurant, service station, minimal camper's groceries, and a beer and wine tavern. These facilities are seasonal from April through
86
November. There are no current plans for the expansion of this facility.
Marble Canyon Lodge is located approximately 1/8 mile west of the entrance to the Lees Ferry area on U.S. Highway 89A. This facility consists of a 33-room motel, large restaurant, service station, camper store with a good selection of groceries and fishing tackle. These facilities are open all year. There are plans to enlarge and improve these facilities within the next 5 years.
A small community, Badger Creek, is located behind and to the west of Vermilion Cliffs Lodge. Hatch River expeditions has a warehouse operation for their river running operations here. There are also approximately 14 private residences located here.
Commercial Operations Background
Lees Ferry is the starting point for all of the river trips through the Grand Canyon National Park. Commercial river runners utilize the gravel launch ramp at Lees Ferry to rig their rafts and load the passengers. There are 22 commercial river runners under contract with the Grand Canyon National Park who handle approximately 70% of the river trips through the Grand Canyon. The river running operations, both down river through the Grand Canyon and from the Glen Canyon Dam to Lees Ferry, are the only concession operations at Lees Ferry.
There was a concession operation at Lees Ferry from 1964 to 1978. Commercial developments at Lees Ferry were based on the premise that the Marble Canyon Dam would be constructed and the initial contract was issued to Fort Lee Company, Inc. This contract was revised for a twenty year period in 1971. The original concession contract called for the construction of a motel, restaurant, gift shop complex, a camper store, boat rental and docks, a service station, employee housing, and a warehouse and maintenance facility. Due to limits put on the raft trips through the Grand Canyon, the concessioner requested a change in scope of his contract and the motel complex was eliminated. He also decided that a boat rental operation was impractical and that was deleted. Originally, the concessioner had seven trailers which he used as rental units and employee housing, a camper store and restaurant and a service station. He constructed a warehouse to handle his operation as well as handle his river running service, which burned down shortly after it was
87
constructed. Finally, in September 1978 the concessioner decided that the only portion of his operation which was profitable was the river running, both through the Grand Canyon and the trips from the Glen Canyon Dam to Lees Ferry. At that time he negotiated with the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and all of his possessory interests were purchased, and he moved, his river operations headquarters to Page, Arizona. Fort Lee Company retained the river running operation for one day trips between Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry. The National Park Service determined that there was no need for any other concession operations at Lees Ferry as there were sufficient commercial developments just outside the developed area. In October 1982 Fort Lee Company sold its assets to Wilderness River Adventures, Incorporated, a subsidiary of Del Webb Recreational Properties, Incorporated.
Interpretation
In 1983 interpretive services were provided by a GS-5 Park Technician, a GS-4 Park Technician, and one Student Conservation Association volunteer. Programs included visitor contact work on the launch ramps and along the river trail. The Navajo High Bridge overlook was utilized to give one-on-one interpretive information on the Lees Ferry area. The ranger station was open 5 days a week, 6 hours a day. Amphitheatre programs were presented 5 nights a week.
In 1984 interpretive services were presented by one GS-4 Park Technician. Primary interpretive contact took place on the launch ramp. Seventeen walks were presented in 1984. The ranger station was not operated because of reduced staff. Fewer tours were conducted at the Lonely Dell Ranch. No contacts were made at the Navajo Bridge overlook. There was no personnel available for this assignment. Amphitheatre programs were presented 2 times per week.
Current Staffing
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Permanent
Water Treatment Plant Operator WG-09 Park Ranger GS-09
88
Seasonal
|
Maintenance |
Worker |
WG-05 |
0.6 W.Y |
|
|
Park Ranger |
GS-05 |
0.5 W.Y |
||
|
Park Ranger |
GS-04 |
0.4 W.Y |
||
|
Grand Canyon |
National |
Park |
||
|
Permanent |
||||
|
Park Ranger |
GS-09 |
|||
|
Seasonal |
||||
|
Park Ranger |
GS-05 |
0.4 W.Y |
89
CHAPTER V
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSEQUENCES
Introduction
The estimated effects disclosed in this chapter provide the information necessary to compare the relative merits of the alternatives, including the preferred plan displayed in Chapter II. This information was derived from inventories and assumptions based on scientific and analytical methods.
The disclosure includes discussions of possible environmental impacts resulting from the implementation of alternatives; any adverse environmental effects which cannot be avoided if the proposal is implemented; the relationship between short-term uses of the environment and maintenance and enhancement of long-term productivity; and any irreversible or irretrievable commitments of resources necessitated by implementation of the proposal.
Additional discussions of broad environmental consequences that may result from the various alternatives are displayed in the 1979 General Management Plan Final Environmental Statement for the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. This environmental assessment will use the environmental statement to "tier" environmental consequences as provided by 40 CFR 1508.28.
The Relationship Between Short-term Uses of Man's Environment and the Maintenance and Enhancement of the Long-term Productivity.
The management objectives of National Recreation Areas recognize outdoor recreational pursuits as one of the dominant or primary resource objectives, along with preservation of natural and historical values. This potential conflict between recreational pursuits and conservation of resources requires that some trade offs be made and that recreational activities within the recreation area be carefully and thoroughly managed with the natural and cultural resources. Thus, with good planning and management practices, recreational uses of the Lees Ferry environment can become a long-term preservation of the environment rather than a short-term consumptive use of the local resources.
90
The Development Concept Plan for Lees Ferry will provide a development framework in order to improve management and visitor services. Because this area functions as a control point and base for use of the Colorado River below Glen Canyon Dam and through the Grand Canyon, adverse impacts associated with uncontrolled recreation use are mitigated; therefore, enhancing long-term recreational productivity.
Any Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitment of Resources
Irreversible commitment of resources refers to non-renewable resources such as cultural resources, or to those factors which are renewable only over long time spans, such as soil productivity. Also, irretrievable includes loss of future options. Irretrievable commitment applies to losses associated with production or use of renewable natural resources. For example, short-term losses of primitive recreation opportunities while developments are in place. If developments are eliminated at a later date, primitive recreation could be restored; therefore, primitive opportunities lost while developments were in place are irretrievable but not irreversible.
Irreversible commitments associated with the proposal are:
Materials used in the construction of roads, utilities, buildings and other facilities
Loss of soil productivity and some soil erosion due to construction activities
Irretrievable committments associated with this proposal are:
Loss of some wildlife habitat
Air quality may deteriorate beyond natural levels
Loss of some existing vegetation
Possible loss of some archeological material that may be disturbed during construction.
91
Effects on Natural Resources
Geology and Soil
Soils at Lees Ferry are the residual materials from the exposed rock and old riverbed silts. Both types are highly erodable. Erosion caused by soils disturbed during construction will be the most significant impact on the soils and geology of the area. Since most of the new construction will be confined to previously disturbed areas, erosion impacts will be minimal.
Currently 49 acres of soil have been disturbed by development activities. No additional soil disturbance will occur from implementation of Alternative A.
Additional land surface area which will be affected under Alternative B is approximately 64 acres.
Additional land surface area which will be affected under Alternative C is approximately 72 acres.
Additional land surface area which will be affected under the Proposed Alternative is approximately 70 acres.
The primary and secondary impact on soils due to the action alternatives include excavation, grading, and soil compaction. Excavation and grading will result in some erosion during the construction period. However, all disturbed areas will be reclaimed with native plant species. Compaction of soils and paving will change soil absorption and local drainage patterns. Soil erosion during construction could result in increased sedimentation of the Paria and Colorado Rivers. The total expected volume of materials will be relatively small in relation to the volume of the Colorado River and the natural sediment load of the Paria River. Therefore, these impacts will be both temporary and negligible.
Vegetation
Both the desert shrub and riparian vegetative communities
will be affected by the action alternatives. Since most
of the developments cluster around existing development
and facilities, the impact on native plant communities will be negligible.
The home range of Pediocactus braydi, the endangered
92
species of cactus found in the Lees Ferry area, does not extend into the proposed development areas. The greatest threat to this species is collection by man as an ornamental or for sale. Alternative A will have no additional affect on this plant. Alternative C will have an impact by the construction of the group campground/environmental facility on Motel Hill. This will be by secondary impacts of bringing people near the edge of its range. Alternative B and the proposed alternative will reduce current impacts on this species through the obliteration of sections of roadway which presently exist near the edge of its range, thereby reducing the secondary impacts. The proposed alternative will have less impact on Pediocactus than the existing conditions, therefore no adverse affects will occur.
Wildlife
The wildlife most affected by the action alternatives will be the small mammals, lizards, etc. which inhabit the development sites. Individual animals will be displaced. This displacement will be somewhat mitigated by the creation of new habitat from rehabilitated areas.
The area disturbed by the action alternatives is relatively small in size and will be incorporated into a pre-existing development zone. Therefore, impacts to larger wildlife and birds will be unmeasureable and insignificant.
Desert Bighorn Sheep inhabit the talus slopes immediately below the Vermilion Cliffs. While occasional individuals could wander into the developed zone, none of the action alternatives will affect the habitat or the local sheep population.
While Peregrine Falcons (endangered species) are known to nest in the nearby canyons, the action alternatives will not impact the local Peregrine Falcon population. All of the development will be in the immediate vicinity of existing developments. Peregrines nest high up in the massive cliffs. The nearest likely nesting cliffs to the developed area are approximately one mile distant. Additional tree planting and agricultural activities might, in fact, increase other birdlife in the Lees Ferry area, thereby increasing the prey base for the falcons. This could be beneficial to the population.
93
Hydrology
This section addresses the affects on surface and subsurface waters. No wells or deep shafts are planned under any of the action alternatives. Therefore, subsurface waters will not be affected. Short-term affects to the surface waters could result from erosion caused by surface disturbances during construction activities. The Paria River is normally very turbid and carries a heavy silt load. The Colorado River is a large body of water. The siltation in it will be much less than the natural amounts carried into it by the Paria River and intermittent side streams. Long-term affects on surface waters will primarily result from agricultural operations at the Lonely Dell Ranch. Nitrates from fertilizers could be carried into the Paria River and on into the Colorado River. The affect of this will be an increase in nutrients in both streams. This could enhance algal growth. However, since amounts are not known at this time it is impossible to assess the exact impact.
In all alternatives the long-term launch ramp parking is located within the Paria Rivers 100 year floodplain. Alternatives B, C, and the National Park Service proposal contain provisions to increase size of this facility. Long-term human occupancy will not occur at this site, therefore, minimizing potential safety threats. Because little earthwork is necessary, no additional impacts will occur to water quality, surface or subsurface. Portions of the access road are also located in the same floodplain, additional impacts should not occur from road improvement.
In Alternatives A and B, the maintenance area is maintained within the floodplain which could lead to potential degradation of water quality. Alternative C and the National Park Service proposal relocates the maintenance area above the 100 year flood frequency level.
Air
There will be no additional air quality impacts as a result of alternative A.
Lees Ferry area has no industry and a very low population. There is little information available on the air quality specific to Lees Ferry. The development of the area,
94
which includes an increased number of people and vehicles, has the potential to marginally diminish the existing air quality. The fine particles of soil (fugitive dust) carried by the wind will temporarily decrease visibility during construction. Upon completion of construction, some of the areas currently subject to wind erosion will be corrected as a result of paving. The overall effect of this will be a reduction in the amount of wind produced erosion. Visibility could further be reduced by emissions from combustion engines. The principal pollutants from engines are carbon monoxide, oxides of nitrogen, and organic compounds. The concentration of pollutants is dependent on the amount of air available for dilution and its horizontal airflow and vertical mixing. Although temperature inversions occur occasionally during the winter, typical airflow and mixing patterns in the region are good due to frequent winds resulting in the dilution of pollutants. Although no specific air quality modeling was completed for this analysis, based on the regional meterology and potential emissions, it is determined that local air quality for gaseous pollutants, including development of Lees Ferry, are within the national ambient air quality standards (40 CFR, Part 50).
Fisheries
Impacts to fisheries by the action alternatives will occur primarily from temporary increases in siltation caused by erosion during construction and from an increase in nutrients introduced into the system as a result of the agricultural activities. These impacts will be negligible in the Colorado River. The Paria River is known to have populations of native fishes, two of which are listed as threatened and endangered by the State of Arizona, and are being evaluated for national listing as threatened or endangered. All native species evolved in very turbid, silt ladened, warm waters. The low amounts of anticipated siltation from construction activities will not affect them. Nutrients which enter the Paria River will enter very near its mouth. Upstream populations will not be affected. Those near the mouth might experience increased growth patterns in individuals. The agricultural activities will be carried out under the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Guidelines which regulates the use of chemicals on Federal lands. Before any E.P.A. listed chemical could be used, its use, application, and effect will be evaluated. The impact of any chemical on any native fishes will be a key component of that evaluation. No chemicals will be
95
approved which could adversesly affect the native fishes. Therefore, none of the action alternatives will be detrimental to native fishes at Lees Ferry.
Effects on Cultural Resources
Historic
There will be no effect on the historical resources at either the Lees Ferry Historic District or the Lonely Dell Historic District under Alternative A.
The historical resources will be greatly affected under Alternatives B, C, and the proposed alternative. Under all of the action alternatives these resources will be stabilized and/or rehabilitated, and there will be an extensive and comprehensive interpretive program developed.
Under all of the action alternatives structures within the Lees Ferry Historic District will be stabilized. Under Alternative B the structures within the Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District will be stabilized. Under Alternative C and the proposed alternative the Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District structures will be partially rehabilitated.
The modern addition to the Weaver Ranch House in the Lonely Dell Historic District has been remodeled to provide an apartment for seasonal personnel or a caretaker type employee. This will provide on site personnel at most times and will have the effect of limiting both intentional and unintentional degradation of the resource simply by the presence of the Park employee(s). Implementation of the ranch as a living history operation will have the effect of repairing, either through stabilization or restoration, the historic structures of the area and developing a working operation which will not only inform the visitor of what life was like during the various periods, but instill in them an appreciation and respect for the area. Although there will be a heavy impact from visitor use, the overall effect should be very positive in the protection of this resource.
Under alternative B and the proposed alternative the visitor contact station will be built between the Lees Ferry Historic District and the river launch ramps. This
96
facility will be fully staffed and will have the effect of providing a high degree of protection to the resource. This will be in part due simply to the presence of the Park employees. There will be interpretive programs developed to inform the visitor of the resources which are present, locating them and telling the story of the historic value and importance of the area; thereby instilling an understanding and respect for the resource. This will also limit or control visitor access and use in the area. The visitor will have access to and use only those facilities and areas which management feels are appropriate. Under the proposed alternative the existing trail from the fort area to the upper ferry crossing will be reconstructed to provide access for the elderly and the physically disabled. This trail will channel the visitor traffic and confine it to more or less the one trail. This will have the effect of eliminating that degradation which is caused unintentionally (through a lack of knowledge) by the visitor. The overall effect of these alternatives will be to provide a much higher level of protection to the resources and ongoing site monitoring and control.
Under Alternative C the visitor contact station will be constructed adjacent to the Paria Beach. Interpretive programs will be developed which tell the historical story of the Lees Ferry Historic District, locating facilities and the interrelationship between structures and historic periods. This will be educational and will help instill an understanding and respect for the historic resource. The on site presence will be lacking. The increased visitation to the Lees Ferry Historic District will have a great impact on the resource, but should be somewhat mitigated due to the interpretive programs offered off site. The visitor impact will create more degradation to the resource than would be experienced under Alternative B or the proposed alternative.
Interpretive programs will bring to life the historical districts and instill a positive attitude towards the historic resources of the entire Lees Ferry area, in the visitor and local communities.
Archeological
Direct impacts can be anticipated on a single prehistoric site as a result of the widening of River Drive. Under alternative C and the proposed alternative River Drive
97
will become the main access road for Lees Ferry and will be widened to park road standards for recreation areas. The site which will be impacted was recorded as IF 13 (FN 15) during the Anderson-Madden survey in 1981. Although this site was recorded as an isolated find, it consists of two granaries and an associated ceramic scatter and probably merits site-level documentation. Chesher re-recorded the site in 1983, noting the presence of corrugated and redware ceramics "all along this sandy plain," meaning the alluvial terrace between River Road and the Paria River. In addition, several irregular mounds were noted, which Chesher suggests may be the remains of prehistoric structures.
Prior to any road construction or maintenance work in the area, it will be necessary to perform additional work at this location. Impacts to the granaries themselves can probably be successfully mitigated through detailed recordation and collection of surface artifacts found in association. However, prior to any surface disturbance in the area of the alluvial plain, a testing program should be initiated to determine whether any buried structures or associated features may be present in the impact area.
The possibility of buried prehistoric structures or other features exists as well for other areas identified for surface disturbing actions in alternatives B, C and the proposed alternative, specifically construction of the visitor contact facility and enlargement of the long-term parking area. Although only a single prehistoric site (other than rock art) has been recorded in the area of the Lees Ferry and Lonely Dell Historic Districts (a ceramic scatter located in the area of the Lonely Dell Ranch possibly with associated structures), it is probable that the 100 plus years of historic activity in the area has obliterated the most obvious surface manifestations of prehistoric occupation. Subsurface remains may become evident in the course of surface disturbing actions associated with the proposed construction activities. There is a high probability of prehistoric subsurface remains existing in the general Lees Ferry development area, even though past inventories have not revealed remains other than those discussed above. It is recommended that a qualified archeologist be on hand to monitor the early phases of earth moving activities to guard against inadvertent impacts to currently unrecognized resources.
98
Effects on Visitor Use
Visitor facilities currently at Lees Ferry consist of limited development of both temporary and permanent facilities. The existing development is geared mainly to river running operations and fishing on the Colorado River between the Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry. The existing facilities consist of a concrete launch ramp for the general public, a gravel launch ramp for the river running activities, a visitor contact station which is inadequate, a facility for orientation programs for private river trips through the Grand Canyon, an undeveloped picnic area, and a 56 site campground which is in very poor condition. The Lonely Dell Historic District is, in essence, not open to the public, and the Lees Ferry Historic District is open only in the respect that the buildings are there, and two can be entered. There are no interpretive devices or services at either site.
Under the action alternatives all aspects of the cultural resources will be developed and interpreted and the campground will be upgraded. The effect of this will be a furnishing of visitor facilites which are not now provided. It will also change the type of use in the area and provide visitor services to a different type of visitor. Most of the projected increase in visitation will be those visitors drawn for the cultural resources and interpretive programs. All of the action alternatives also provide for group environmental education facilities. There will be no increase in the river use as a result of any of these action alternatives considered.
Effects on Facilities
All of the action alternatives contain basically the same facilities, but in different configurations and locations.
Visitor Contact/Administrative
All of the alternatives combine the visitor contact and administrative facilities in one building. In alternative C this facility has been located at the Paria Beach area. In alternative B and the proposed alternative this facility has been located adjacent to the Lees Ferry Historic District and the existing launch ramp. The Paria Beach location will catch the visitor as they enter the area and will provide information as to the location
99
of the various facilities and provide the interpretation prior to arrival at the sites. The Lees Ferry Historic District location is a central point where information and interpretation will be presented on all segments of the facilities and development. It is a focal point for the historic district and will enable interpretation of most of the history as well as the present activities of fishing and river running. It will provide a visual continuity and show the interrelationships of time periods and uses and how they are intertwined. Alternatives B and C both require parking for 40 single vehicles, 10 recreation vehicles, 6 buses, and 6 administrative stalls. The proposed alternative requires parking for 45 single vehicles, 6 buses, and 6 administrative stalls.
Launch Ramp and Associated Facilities
Under Alternative B and the proposed alternative these facilities remain at their current location. Alternative B calls for barrier islands to separate the river running ramp from the public ramp, the long-term parking area is increased in size to hold 150 vehicles and trailers, and a boat ready area is provided. The proposed alternative calls for barrier islands between the river running ramp and the public ramp, increasing the width of the public ramp by 30 feet, the long-term parking area is increased in size to hold 15Q vehicles and trailers, a boat ready area is provided, and a 25 single vehicle parking area is constructed adjacent to the comfort station.
Alternative C calls for the construction of a second launch ramp at the Paria Beach site which will be utilized only for rafts for river running trips. There will be no increase in the size of the long-term parking area under this alternative, but a boat ready area will be provided. Under this alternative the construction of a second launch ramp for river running activities will have the effect of removing a large percentage of visitors from the Lees Ferry Historic District. The Paria Beach site is located in an eddy adjacent to Paria Rapid. Eddies are subject to sand deposition and cutting depending on river flows. At times the ramp could be silted in and at other times it could be subject to cutting actions of the river. Construction of a ramp in this location will require long-term maintenance activities to maintain it. Other types of protective structures, such as a breakwater, may be necessary to protect it and calm water for raft launching activities.
100
Campground
All of the alternatives retain the existing 56 site campground. Both alternatives A and B retain the campground as is with rehabilitation of existing facilities. Alternative C retains the same number of sites but revamps the campground and expands the sites to cover additional land. This will provide a better camping experience and alleviate congestion. A 200 seat amphitheatre is also constructed. The proposed alternative calls for the retention of the 56 site campground but expands it to cover additional land to provide a better camping experience and alleviate congestion. Under this alternative a 200 seat amphitheatre is also constructed.
Group Use/Environmental Education
Under Alternative A there is no provision for a group use area or an environmental education area. Under Alternative B the existing visitor contact station is converted to a facility to handle large groups and will provide an area for environmental education. Under Alternative C facilities for "large groups and environmental education are provided at the site previously designated for a motel/restaurant development. Under the proposed alternative an area is provided adjacent to the existing campground loop for large groups and environmental education.
Picnic Area
Under Alternatives A and B the existing picnic area is maintained as is. Under Alternative C a picnic area is provided at the Lees Ferry Historic District. There will be 10 to 15 sites with grills, picnic tables, and shade structures. Under the proposed alternative the picnic area is maintained at the existing site and will provide 10 to 15 sites with grills, picnic tables, and shade structures.
Trailer Dump Station
Under Alternatives A and B the trailer dump station
remains where it is currently located. Under Alternative
C and the proposed alternative the trailer dump station is
101
relocated to an area near the campground.
Circulation Patterns
Roads - Under Alternative A the existing road system is maintained as is. Under Alternative B the existing road system is modified by the obliteration of River Drive and the access road to motel hill. Under Alternative C the access road is relocated between the campground and the south side of the Paria River with the obliteration of the abandoned portions of the existing access road. Under the proposed alternative the access road is relocated between the campground and the south side of the Paria River with the obliteration of the abandoned portions of the access roads. Both Alternative C and the proposed alternative call for the construction of a new bridge across the Paria River, and the paving of the access road to the Lonely Dell Historic District. Under Alternative C and the proposed alternative a structure will be required near the existing Paria picnic area parking lot where the road crosses a fairly major drainage. This will eliminate a maintenance problem with road closures and siltation after heavy rains in the area.
Trails - Under Alternative A the existing trails are maintained as is. Under Alternative B approximately .8 mile of trail is constructed to link the Lees Ferry Historic District and the Lonely Dell Historic District. Under Alternative C approximately .8 mile of trail is constructed to link the Lees Ferry Historic District and the Lonely Dell Historic District. The Paria Canyon Trail is marked and a trailhead development provided. The existing sewage lagoon access road is rehabilitated and converted to a pedestrian route to outlying areas. The existing upriver ferry site crossing trail is maintained as is. Under the proposed alternative approximately .8 mile trail is constructed to link the Lees Ferry Historic District and the Lonely Dell Historic District. Approximately 1.25 miles of handicap accessible trail are constructed from the visitor contact station to the upriver ferry crossing site. The Paria Canyon Trail is marked and a trailhead development provided. The existing sewage lagoon access road is rehabilitated and converted to a pedestrian route to outlying areas.
Utilities
Under Alternative A there will be no increase in the utility demand. There will be an increase in utility
102
demands under Alternatives B, C, and the proposed alternative as a result of the construction and operation of the expanded service base. There will be additional electric needs to operate the visitor contact station, an expanded maintenance facility, group campground and environmental education facility, and expanded employee housing area. There will be an increase in the water needs as a result of these new facilities causing increased pumping and treatment of river water. There will also be an increase in the sewage loading. Under Alternative C there will be a greater increase in these utilities as a result of the construction of a camp store/fast food facility.
The expanded service base will accommodate the anticipated visitation to Lees Ferry over the next 10 to 20 years. Relocation and improvement of facilities will increase the serviceability of the development. Facilities will be organized to separate service and maintenance functions from the activity areas.
Commercial Operations
Under Alternative C a small facility is provided near the visitor contact station with camp store and a fast food operation. Under Alternatives A, B, and the proposed alternative commercial operations are restricted to river running operations, both between the Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry and the river trips through the Grand Canyon National Park, and fishing guides between the Glen Canyon Dam and Lees Ferry.
Effects on Regional Facilities & Land Uses
Developments such as Lees Ferry tend to promote the establishment of privately owned communities and facilities outside the recreation area boundaries. Development of supplementary private facilities could affect public domain lands administered by the BLM. Growth at Lees Ferry could increase the pressure to develop more and larger peripheral development. There are currently three commercial developments outside the boundary of the Lees Ferry area ranging from l/8th mile to nine miles distant. Two of these developments have plans for expansion of visitor facilities within the next five years. This expansion is predicated on the present volume of use and the current visitation to the Lees Ferry area.
103
The anticipated increase in visitation as well as being a different type user than is currently experienced will have an affect on the amount and type of services provided by these peripheral commercial developments. There is very little private land available for development near the Lees Ferry developed area.
Effects on Other Influences
Implementation of any of the alternatives does not affect any changes in land ownership. Existing grazing allotments will be unaffected. Because of increased use of the Lees Ferry area, off-road vehicle and pedestrian use may increase on adjacent Bureau of Land Management lands, resulting in increased resource degradation and management costs. The Bureau of Land Management may have to intensify their management activities in these areas to prevent unacceptable resource degradation.
The regional socioeconomical environment for Glen Canyon National Recreation Area has been described in several documents. It is a very sparsely populated environment, having only one to three people per square mile, depending on county boundaries. An average of 16 people per square mile occurs in Arizona, a relatively low population in terms of state population.
Changes in the population of the area reflect changes in economic opportunities. The Town of Page, Arizona has had a highly fluctuating population since its beginning as a Bureau of Reclamation town in 1957. In 1960 it had a population of 2,634 people. It reached a low population of 1,348 in 1967 as dam construction was completed. By 1973 the population had increased once again to between 11,000 and 12,000 people, due mainly to the construction of the Navajo Generating Station. Upon completion of the generating station, the population dropped to approximately 4,000. Since then there has been a steady increase until the present population of approximately 6,200.
Employment in the region, in general, is highly seasonal, has a relatively high dependence on agriculture, tourism, timber and mining. The national trend of declining numbers of people employed in agriculture is evident in the region. The steady decline in agricultural employment has displaced workers who resist emigration from the region and seek whatever employment might be available near their homes.
104
Measures of median family income are low for the region compared with the States of Arizona and Utah in general. More comprehensive measures of standards of living, however, present a less dismal picture. Relative wealth in terms of such things as housing and automobile ownership, education, and medical and dental accessibility shows areas included in the region rank favorably with other areas of the States.
Development at Lees Ferry will contribute to increases in the construction workforce, employment in the wholesale and retail trade, service industry employment, and government employment. Total development costs for the proposed alternative are $ 4,744,000. Much of this money will be directly injected into State and local counties and communities. Development should provide construction employment for several years.
As the service base grows, there will be new jobs created, which may be filled by residents of local communities. Also, it is expected that gross revenues collected by the commercial developments outside the boundary of the Lees Ferry area will increase, resulting in increased revenue to State and local governments. The overall economic effect will be a positive one.
Effects on Interpretation
Alternative A - Present interpretive response to visitor needs, programs, contacts, guided tours, evening programs, and visitor contact station hours are inadequate. The present staff (one three-month seasonal) is unable to maintain a minimum level professional standard. No visitor contact work is conducted at the contact station due to the lack of personnel. Visitor contact work is restricted to the launch ramp area three hours per day, five days per week. Guided walks are presented two days per week in the Lees Ferry and Lonely Dell Historic Districts. Evening programs are presented two nights per week. If present cuts continue, Lees Ferry will be cut back to zero personnel in 1986. No visitor contact work will be conducted. Cultural resources will not be protected or interpreted, and will be left to the hands of the vandals and the elements.
Alternative B and the proposed alternative - The development 0? ii visitor contact station, located at the heavy use area, will meet visitor and Park needs for
105
interpretation. It will be staffed seven days per week year round. It will allow quick access of personnel to rescue work, visitor contacts, historic district protection, guided tours, ramp roving, etc. It will adequately present the stories of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and Lees Ferry. Professional quality exhibits and programs will enhance the visitors' experience. Roving assignments and wayside exhibits will help protect resources and bring the stories alive. The amphitheatre will be a professional quality facility. Operation of the Lonely Dell Historic District will be a professional operation. It will bring life to the various occupation periods of the ranch, allowing the visitor to become directly involved in the operations. Cultural resources will be maintained through daily care and maintenance. Surveillance will be constant in the ranch with a resident staff present year round. The buildings in the Lees Ferry Historic District will be stabilized, with one or two possibly being refurbished to serve as wayside exhibits. These will not be freely accessible to the visitor. There will be a glassed off entrance area to prevent entrance into the structure. This will allow visitors a glimpse of history and protect the cultural resources of the area.
Alternative C - Under this alternative the visitor contact station is located adjacent to the relocated river running ramp at the Paria beach area and will meet visitor and Park needs for interpretation. It will be staffed seven days per week year round. It is removed from the main visitor use area (the Lees Ferry and Lonely Dell Ranch Historic Districts and the public launch ramp) and will result in less visitor contacts at the public ramp area and the Lees Ferry Historic District. Response time to emergencies on the river will be more, due to the distance from the river access point. Visitor contacts, historic district protection, guided tours, and ramp roving activities will be conducted, but will be somewhat reduced because of the distance from the Lees Ferry Historic District site. The lack of full time presence of personnel will also have the effect of a lesser level of cultural resource protection. Professional quality exhibits and programs will enhance the visitors' experience. Roving assignments and wayside exhibits will help protect resources and bring the stories alive. The amphitheatre will be a professional quality facility. Operation of the Lonely Dell Ranch Historic District will be a professional operation. It will bring life to the various occupation periods of the ranch, allowing the visitor to become directly involved in the operations.
106
Cultural resources will be maintained through daily care and maintenance. Surveillance will be constant at the ranch with a resident staff present year round. The buildings in the Lees Ferry Historic District will be stabilized, with one or two possibly refurbished to serve as wayside exhibits. These will not be freely accessible to the visitor. There will be a glassed off entrance area to prevent entrance into the structure. This will allow the visitor a glimpse of the history and protect the cultural resources of the area.
Effects on Staffing
Implementation of alternatives B, C and the proposed alternative will have the effect of increasing the staffing at Lees Ferry. An increase in the staffing will have the resultant effect of requiring the addition of permanent and seasonal quarters at Lees Ferry to house the additional staff. All of the action alternatives require the same level of staffing for the management and operation of the area.
Expansion of facilities at Lees Ferry is dependent on the National Park Service's ability to provide the required services. Implementation of any of the action alternatives will require the same staffing level needs. Specific positions are illustrated in Chapter II, Alternative Descriptions (page ). The total staffing for implementation of an alternative will require a total of 11.7 FTEs (Full Time Equivalents).
Viability of Commercial Operations
Alternative C proposes the development of a camp store and fast food facility to be located in the vicinity of the Paria Beach. The purpose of the store will be to provide groceries, sundries, camping supplies, and other merchandise to area visitors. Limited food service will be available, probably seasonally. A similar operation previously existed at Lees Ferry, operated by the Fort Lee Company, Inc. The store and other fixed commercial operations were financially very marginal and were terminated in 1978 and the concessioner's possessory interests purchased by the government.
The following pro forma is based upon the following assumptions:
107
1. Revenues should increase over the 1978 actuals by full increases in visitation (128%) and the CPI-U (all items) (66%) and be distributed as indicated for cost of sales.
2. The store should perform to standard expense percentages as reported by Robert Morris Associates.
3. Construction and equipment costs of $150,000 with 25% down, balance financed $112,000 at 12% for 20 years.
4. Relatively low labor costs.
|
Lees Ferry Store |
|||
|
Net Sales |
% |
of sales |
|
|
Groceries |
83,000 |
50% |
|
|
General Merchandise |
41,500 |
25% |
|
|
Gifts |
41,500 |
25% |
|
|
Total |
166,000 |
100% |
Cost of Goods Sold
Groceries 64,740 (78%)
General Merchandise 26,560 (64%)
Gifts 23,655 (57%)
Total 114,955
Gross Profit 51,045
Departmental Expenses
Labor - Salaries 24,336
Taxes/Benefits 3,650
Total 27,986
Utilities 3,320
Repair & Maintenance 3,320
Other 1,660
Total Dept. Expenses 36,186
Departmental Income 14,859
Indirect and Fixed Expenses
A & G 16,600
FF 6,640
Depreciation
(10 years, SL) 15,000
Total 28,240
108
Income (loss) before Income Tax & Interest ($13,381)
Interest Costs 13,422
Principal Cost 1,422
Total Debt Service 14,864
Net income (loss) before Income Tax and after debt service
($28,245)
As the pro forma indicates, the proposed store facility does not appear to be economically viable.
109
|
CU |
O O |
|
|
s |
CQ |
|
|
t-q |
CO CO |
|
|
< |
0) X) |
CO |
|
z |
u u |
CO |
|
o |
o 3 |
|
|
co u |
01 |
|
|
H |
co |
a |
|
< |
O -H |
CO |
|
Z |
r-> x |
C/3 |
|
w o |
•H |
|||||||
|
en |
CO U iH XI |
|||||||
|
w |
iH |
X -H rH >, |
||||||
|
u |
•a |
3 CO t4 CO |
||||||
|
z |
X |
O -H Xi U |
||||||
|
w |
u |
CO |
O > X> |
|||||
|
ea |
CD r-4 |
|||||||
|
a |
Cd |
M-l rH CD |
CO S CD CO |
|||||
|
H |
> |
O -H O |
O 4J 3 |
|||||
|
to |
O C |
rH U O 4-» |
PQ |
|||||
|
z |
H |
CO CO CO |
to ^-t a cj |
|||||
|
o |
<: |
at xi |
i-l CO |
CO |
||||
|
o |
§ |
M r-t U |
4-> 4J 3 CJ |
CO |
||||
|
U 10 3 |
C o o o |
|||||||
|
Sj |
w |
CO C 4J |
4) CO iH |
§ |
||||
|
H |
O CO |
•u a- <u x |
||||||
|
H |
â–ºJ |
CM >H -H |
o a co a> |
CO |
||||
|
Z i |
< |
r-» i-> X |
Pl, -H 3 fX, |
w |
||||
|
i—i |
M-l |
CD |
||||||
|
o |
CO |
O |
H |
c |
||||
|
pS |
C |
>s O |
nH |
•H |
||||
|
o |
C J3 4J |
| |
CO |
u |
||||
|
O |
4J CD |
00 |
||||||
|
4-1 • |
•H i-( |
CJ |
CO |
CJ M-l |
CD |
|||
|
•H CO |
4-1 X |
CD -H |
u |
|||||
|
X CJ |
o >> |
M-l |
M-l |
M-l rH |
<u |
|||
|
bu |
X C |
CD CO |
<4-l M-4 |
O |
M-l X |
a |
||
|
o |
CQ |
cO CO |
4J U |
O CO |
CD iH |
|||
|
X> |
o x> |
U |
4-1 |
o |
||||
|
z |
W |
M-l 1-1 |
J-l |
3 U |
C |
O S |
4J |
|
|
c |
> |
O 3 |
a. co |
o |
rH CU |
3 • • |
||
|
ca |
4J |
3 |
•H >-i |
-h a |
M CO |
4J |
||
|
H |
H |
CO CO |
X 4J |
4J CO |
•H CD |
« CD X |
CJ |
|
|
OS |
< |
0) -H |
CD CO |
CO rH |
XI O |
CO 60 U |
CD • |
|
|
< |
2 |
H XI |
CJ CJ |
C 3 |
CO |
<-i U i-( |
M-4 C |
|
|
| |
CJ |
C O |
•H CJ |
<H rH |
CO CO XI |
M-l O |
||
|
W |
CO r-l |
CO -H |
a -h |
<u a. |
a -h |
CD CJ |
||
|
c |
H |
x -o |
â– H X! |
4-1 CO |
a T3 |
<-t |
||
|
o |
J |
<r o |
C 01 |
rH <D |
O -H |
CO O C a *-> to |
O CO |
|
|
<C |
vC CO |
W a, |
CD > |
a q |
Z M-l |
|||
|
g |
4-> |
|||||||
|
CJ CO |
||||||||
|
iH |
<U 3 |
|||||||
|
•H |
M-l X 4J |
|||||||
|
CO |
< W |
o CO CO • 3 <D |
nal ef angere diocac |
|||||
|
> |
O O |
O X CD |
CO |
|||||
|
t-( |
•H 3 |
•H 3 P-. |
4J |
|||||
|
H |
4J CO |
4-1 CD |
CJ |
|||||
|
< |
•H 43 X P |
X CD CO -iH |
CD m-i |
|||||
|
2 |
X 3 |
X XS 3 T3 |
M-l |
|||||
|
w |
CO 4-1 |
CO 4J 4-1 >, |
CD |
|||||
|
H |
CO |
CJ CO |
||||||
|
p-J |
O -H |
O O CO U |
o |
|||||
|
< |
z -o |
Z 4J |
<J |
X> |
z |
|
c |
•H |
4-> |
00 |
CD |
•H |
||||
|
1 |
3 |
4-1 |
M |
X 3 |
C |
00 CO |
|||
|
XI |
6 |
•H |
SI |
CD iH |
o |
3 <-H |
|||
|
3 • |
•H |
3 |
> |
M-l |
X G |
hJ |
•h a |
||
|
CD CO |
-O |
O |
â– H |
J^ X |
|||||
|
1-1 |
HJ |
u |
u |
6 |
CO CO |
4J |
>-i o |
||
|
O CD |
â– |
U |
o |
cfl |
CO o |
||||
|
4J 4J |
B |
Ctj |
M |
CD |
CX.-H |
||||
|
CO |
1 |
O |
M-l |
xi a |
CO |
M-l |
|||
|
4J » |
h |
c |
>> o |
c |
e u |
< |
|||
|
CJ |
0) |
I4H |
o |
ao |
a M-i |
0 |
|||
|
CD CD |
4J |
â– H |
0) |
•H |
CD CO |
CD |
|||
|
M-l CJ |
1 |
a |
4-1 |
4J |
4-1 |
4J CD |
CO |
||
|
MH CO |
w |
o |
u |
CO |
co co |
CO |
1 Sn |
||
|
CO M-l |
h |
3 |
u |
U -H |
rJ |
t-H |
oo i |
CD |
|
|
u |
o |
4-1 |
u |
4J |
CD U |
0) |
3 O |
a |
|
|
O 3 |
XI |
03 |
4-1 |
•H |
N CO |
a |
<D |
O O |
CO |
|
Z CO |
co |
4J |
CO |
z |
•H CX, |
0 |
o |
J -H |
c/> |
|
00 co X |
||
|
3 O |
||
|
•H CD O |
||
|
^ OH |
||
|
M 3 M-l |
||
|
CO CO |
||
|
O. 3 M |
||
|
CD CO |
||
|
a 4J a) C 3 5^ |
< |
|
|
CD -H 1 |
CO |
|
|
4J CO O i a o |
CO |
|
|
c |
||
|
00 -i |
•H |
u |
|
3 X |
CO |
e |
|
O 3 3 |
H |
CO |
|
hJ CO -H |
CL |
CO |
|
1 |
00 |
CO |
||
|
X) |
3 |
C |
M |
|
|
3 |
•H |
CD |
CO |
|
|
a |
CO |
J<! |
4-1 |
CD |
|
h |
t-i |
c |
>^ |
|
|
o |
CD |
CO |
||
|
4-1 |
4J |
a. |
1 |
O • |
|
CO |
© 3 |
|||
|
4J |
3 |
E |
— I iH |
|
|
a |
X |
at |
||
|
OJ |
a; |
CD |
c |
3 rH |
|
M-l |
u |
4-1 |
CO |
•H O. |
|
M-l |
CO |
1 |
X |
|
|
CU |
'4-4 |
00 |
CO |
CO O |
|
l-l |
3 |
0) |
CD O |
|
|
o |
3 |
o |
Vj |
S-l r-i |
|
z |
X |
hJ |
CO |
CO M-l |
|
>. |
•H CD /-» |
|
4-1 1 |
X) X o |
|
•H rH |
a «-< m |
|
rH O |
co co |
|
CO ex 3 |
X 4J |
|
3 -H |
u c u |
|
a4 co x: |
•rl CO CO |
|
3 *-> |
CO 4J JXl |
|
U O tH |
CO |
|
•H CD 3 |
rH « |
|
co co |
co >.»! |
|
CO CD |
3 *J Pm |
|
ft OO 4-1 |
o -h a |
|
CO 3 |
•H rH |
|
O Vj co |
4J CO O |
|
O O 3 |
O 3-J |
|
rJ M-l rH |
3 cr^ |
|
3 |
3 |
|
|
cO |
O |
|
|
H |
>> |
4-1 |
|
z |
00 |
CO |
|
w |
o |
4-1 |
|
§ |
r-i r-t |
CD |
|
O -H |
00 |
|
|
rJ |
<D O O C/3 |
CD |
|
w |
> |
110
|
<D |
<u |
|||||
|
0 |
Q |
|||||
|
3 |
CO |
|||||
|
co |
CO |
00 |
CU |
0 |
||
|
CI |
c |
CJ |
o |
|||
|
X) |
c |
Vj |
||||
|
c |
CO |
CO |
4-1 |
|||
|
Cu |
0) |
O |
J3 |
|||
|
M |
•H |
U |
l-t 3 |
co CD |
||
|
0) |
3 |
4J |
4J |
4-1 |
||
|
4J |
c |
CO |
•H |
|||
|
0 |
O |
•H |
CO |
|||
|
CO |
O |
â– 4-1 |
T3 |
g |
||
|
PQ |
O |
4-1 |
--H |
|||
|
â– u |
M |
CO |
O |
|||
|
co |
0) |
c |
||||
|
3 |
4-1 |
l/~l |
> |
4J |
J*; |
|
|
U |
•H |
c |
c |
|||
|
u |
fl |
)-l |
cu |
3 |
||
|
s |
a z |
4J |
||||
|
CO |
s |
Cn |
4-1 |
o |
||
|
CO |
H a» a |
§ |
o |
P-, |
o |
|
|
3 |
c |
^ |
||||
|
0 |
CO |
14-4 |
||||
|
•H |
J3 |
|||||
|
4J |
)-l |
co |
||||
|
u |
3 |
a) |
||||
|
3 |
4J |
â– u |
4J |
|||
|
4-1 |
c |
03 |
•H |
|||
|
o |
cu |
CO |
3 |
|||
|
n |
B |
T3 |
o |
|||
|
Cu |
CU |
g |
•H |
|||
|
00 |
rH |
4-1 |
||||
|
TD |
CO |
CO |
o |
CJ |
||
|
0) |
c |
•H |
c |
3 |
||
|
O |
CO |
4-1 |
^! |
Vj |
||
|
3 |
6 |
c |
C |
4-» |
||
|
cfl |
â– o |
1) 4J |
3 |
CO c |
||
|
c |
c |
O |
4-1 |
o |
||
|
w |
CO |
0-, |
O |
O |
CU
ca cu 3 "3
3
|
-a |
(U |
|||
|
CU |
01 |
|||
|
4J |
J <U |
co |
||
|
CO |
fH |
c |
||
|
CU |
u |
4J .n |
o |
|
|
U |
cu |
co u. |
•H |
|
|
a |
C |
CO |
4-1 |
|
|
o |
co 2 |
CO |
||
|
c |
u |
U |
||
|
o |
co |
c .c |
CJ |
|
|
•H |
CO |
CU 4-1 |
a. |
4J |
|
4J |
cu |
S -H |
o |
a |
|
•H |
CJ |
a 3 |
ai |
|
|
4J |
c |
o |
c |
4-1 |
|
0) |
o |
•H >, |
o |
' 4-4 |
|
a. |
a |
(U r4 |
>> |
0) |
|
0 |
> M |
3 |
||
|
o |
^ |
CU (U |
CO |
o |
|
u |
J2 |
T3 fe |
CJ |
z |
(0 CU
•O (j CU -H
•H O CU *J
CU -H CO U
tj a m cu
C CO 3 M
cO J3 4-i cu
(X CurH Jli
X S 3 C
w <u a -h
3 O CO *3 cO CO 00 M •H 3 O CO -H rH CO 3 O J CU
a 3
0 rJ '-M
CU o
CO > O -H -H 4J 4-1 pi
U CD -H 0£
O UH
U firl H
•H «H CJ O
CO CO 4-1
•H -3 4-1
> 3 W
CO CU C
T3 > O
CU *J -H -H
•3 O 4J CO
3 co co i-l
3
CU CU
0 CO CO
C 3 00 4J
O • S3
^ c -on m
a- 3
u CJ
o
> -H
3 4J
CU CO
> -^. O
O CU 3
U CO "3
Pn 3 3
CU T3 0
CO 3 Cu
CO 3 O
3 O rH
U 3 U 4JH
cfl cO cO co £> •
•ui cj W O 3 co
3 3 3 O Cu Cu
O „D O rH g
U U 0 CO
TJ >, O U
U 0) )-J 4-1 u
O 3 OrliH j:
4J tl 4J H CJ
•H CO -H -H f^ 3
CO CO CO CJ CO 3
•H <U "H CO 3 CO
> rH > 14-1 CO rH
I
3 .3 CO
•U CU 00 cu
M CU 4J 3 «H
O 0 O O 4J
4-1 Cu M «H
3 4= >
CO O 00 4J -H
•3 -H 3 U
CU *J -rt 4J CJ
CU 3 N CJ CO
3 4J -H 3
CU 0 4-1 CO
^ ^ -H 3 3
O Cu X O O
•U U CO o u
•H CU 0 <U
CO 4J <-* S
•H 3 >> 3 3
> -H JO -H C
O CO Cu-3 CO <U CU CU
U 3
3 •
3 3
O
3 3 3 3 O U M O Oi
3 )-*
|
00 |
||
|
o |
o |
|
|
H |
•H |
i-H |
|
Z |
h |
O |
|
w |
o |
3 |
|
§ |
u CO |
J3 |
|
hJ |
•H |
M |
|
w |
PC |
<: |
3 3 CO
o :=>
|
o |
o |
3 O |
|
|
z |
z |
M 4J |
|
|
M |
|||
|
3 |
|||
|
,3 |
3 |
||
|
4J |
O |
||
|
o |
•H 4-1 |
||
|
3 co |
3 |
CO |
3 3 |
|
O 3 |
O |
cu |
O 4J |
|
rH >H |
u |
3 |
|
|
CO 3 4-1 |
CO |
c |
CO U |
|
4J 3 -H |
4J |
3 |
â– U CU |
|
O O rH |
o |
3 |
u u |
|
« -H rl |
3 |
r-l |
3 3 |
|
4-1 00 CJ |
<4-l |
<4-l |
U-l 4-1 |
|
<4-i 3 3 |
4-1 |
3 |
4-1 3 |
|
U cci Pk |
w |
W M |
111
CHAPTER VI
LIST OF PREPARERS
Larry. Belli, Park Ranger, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Jon Dick, Park Ranger, Lees Ferry, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Helen Dionne, Administrative Officer, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Ron Everhart, Concessions Management Specialist, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
David Gray, Team Captain/Landscape Architect, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
John Ritenour, Park Ranger, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Michael Snyder, Landscape Architect/Planner, Rocky Mountain Region
Larry Wiese, Interpretive Specialist, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Tom Workman, Park Ranger, Grand Canyon National Park
Others who were active in preparation of this document are:
Teresa Bichard, Maintenance Division Secretary, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area
Sarah Brown, Landscape Architect Technician, Rocky Mountain Region
112
CHAPTER VII
CONSULTATION Tom Lucke Peggy Olwell
Chief Water Resources Branch, WASO
U.S. Fish and Wildlife, Albuquerque N.M. Consulted in regards to endang- ered species only, not specifically for D.C.P.)
Adrienne Anderson Archeologist , Rocky Mountain Region
Rodd L. Wheaton
Alan Frederickson Tom Britt
Gerald Terry Nan Terry
Jane Foster
Fred Burke
Chuck DeWitt
Historic Architect Region
Arizona Fish and Game Arizona Fish and Game
Badger Springs Badger Springs
Marble Canyon Lodge
Vermillion Cliffs Lodge
Cliff Dwellers Lodge
Rocky Mountain
Grand Canyon National Park
Larry Stevens Booker
Sterling Johnson Owen Johnson Warren Johnson
Northern Arizona University
B.L.M., Arizona Strip Wilderness Management Team, St. George, Utah
The Johnson Family The Johnson Family The Johnson Family
Descendants of John Doyle Lee Family Organization Mark Sleight Sleight River Expeditions
Fishing Guides
John Catchings Bill McBurney Chuck Clark Russel Sullivan Terry Gunn Dale Whitmore
113
Chris Kincaid Glen Canyon NRA archeologist
Dean Crane Wilderness River Adventures
David Reeser Civil Engineer, R.M.R., Maintenance
114
APPENDIX
11!
CONSTRUCTION COST ESTIMATES
Following are the gross construction cost estimates for Alternatives A, B, and C. Estimates for the National Park Service proposal are contained in Chapter II.
ALTERNATIVE A
Partially restore Weaver Ranch $ 40,000 House
TOTAL $ 40,000
ALTERNATIVE B
Visitor/Administrative Facility
- 5,300 square foot structure $1,384,000
- 44 stall public parking 90,000
- 6 stall bus/RV parking 39,000
- 6 stall administrative parking 12,000
$1,525,000
River Launching Facilities
- Ramp vehicular circulation rehab $ 150,000
- Parking reconstruction 24,000
- Long-term parking expansion 494,000
- Boat ready area 40,000
- Courtesy dock 26,000
$ 734,000
Trails
- .8 miles interpretive trail $ 58,000
$ 58,000
Residential Area
- 2 duplex units $ 335,000
- 6 apartment units 368,000
$ 703,000
Maintenance Area
- 1,800 square foot shop $ 249,000
- 1,000 square foot covered storage 36,000
- 800 square foot firehouse 29,000
- Fencing 18,000
$ 332,000
Lees Fort Stabilization
- Spencer Buildings $ 73,000
- Lees Crossing Ruins 25, 000
$ 98,000
116
Lonely Dell Ranch - Stabilize Log Barn
36,000
36,000
Utilities
- Septic systems
- 6" water distribution lines
108,000 220,000 328,000
TOTAL $3,814,000
ALTERNATIVE C
Visitor/Administrative Facility
- 5,300 square foot structure
- 44 stall public parking
- 6 stall bus/RV parking
- 6 stall administrative parking
$1,384,000 90,000 39,000 12,000
$1,525,000
River Launching Facilities
- Long-term parking expansion $
- Boat ready area
- Courtesy dock
- River runner launch ramp (concrete)
- 20 vehicle river runner parking
$"
494,000 40,000 26,000
331,000 41,000
932,000
Trails
- .8 miles historic trail $
- .3 miles road to trail conversion
- Paria Canyon trail signing
$"
Environmental Education/Group Use Are;
- Campfire circle $
- Comfort station
- Campground loop
$"
58,000 18,000 15,000 91,000
6,000 136,000 160,000 302,000
Residential Area
- 2 duplex units
- 6 apartment units
335,000 368,000 703,000
Maintenance Area
- 1,200 square foot shop rehab
- 600 square foot shop new construction
61,000 83,000
117
- 1,000 square foot covered storage 36,000
- 800 square foot firehouse 29,000
- Fuel storage and pumps 20,000
- Maintenance yard fencing 18, 000
$ 247,000
Campground
- Rehabilitate existing area $ 45,000
- New campground loop 358,000
- New comfort station 65,000
- 200 seat amphitheater 40,000
- Relocate trailer dump station 51 , 000
$ 559,000
Picnic Area
- 15 picnic sites $ 19,000
Lees Ferry Historic District
- Stabilize Spencer Buildings
- Stabilize Lees Crossing Ruins
Lonely Dell Ranch Rehabilitation
- Weaver House rehabilitation
- Stabilize Log Barn
- Landscape rehabilitation
- Cemetary fencing
- Weaver House exhibits
Utilities
- 150,000 gallon ground level
storage tank $ 265,000
- Septic systems 135,000
- 7,200 L.F. 6" water distribution
lines 220,000
|
$ |
73,000 |
|
25,000 |
|
|
$ |
98,000 |
|
$ |
102,000 |
|
36,000 |
|
|
90,000 |
|
|
4,000 |
|
|
32,000 |
|
|
$ |
264,000 |
620,000
TOTAL $5,360,000
118 6 U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE:1988- 677-199/45068
3 1604 004 719 524
|
DATE DUE |
|||
Demco. Inc 38-293