1. Abstract:
The proposed project is a regulation size snow
halfpipe covering approximately 2,437.5m2
located in the spruce-fir region of forest (see
Map). The project would include the regulation
size halfpipe, a small lodging area and parking
lot, as well as roadways to and from the
recreational area. The estimated impacts of the
proposed project are outlined here.
The area of interest for the half pipe is densely
populated with trees and fallen timber. Location
of potential lodge/parking site is located near an
existing camp ground. Map of Fall Creek Half Pipe Site
Spruce Fir Flying High Halfpipe Impact Assessment
Justin Arnold, Anne Klotz, Corey Regan, Tanner Marshall
NR220
Introduction: The project area is in the Fall Creek
Watershed at an approximate elevation of 2,975m. The area is
dominated by Picea engelmanii, Abies lasiocarpa, and an array of
resistant shrubs, forbs, and grasses.
Project Objectives:
• Assess impact of proposed development on vegetation, soils,
wildlife, and hydrology, especially within the riparian area.
• Estimate area of forest to be cleared.
• Consider effects of the proposed project on soil compaction
and infiltration, stream functioning, and impacts on the road.
Methods:
Method 1:
We estimated the area of forest to be cleared based on size of the
regulation half pipe, a small warming lodge with restrooms, a 100-
car parking lot, and road access that would all need to be cleared of
trees.
Method 2:
We used the Proper Functioning Condition assessment sheet to
evaluate stream condition at the present time. We performed a
qualitative assessment of hydrologic function, vegetative diversity
and vigor, and the status of erosion and deposition within the
riparian area.
Method 3:
We measured soil compaction and infiltration at two sites. The first
site was undisturbed soil and the second site was located in an
established camp site with disturbed soil. Compaction was
measured using a soil penetrometer in tons/ft2
. Infiltration was
measured using a soil infiltrometer in cm/min.
Results
Conclusions:
The three largest environmental impacts of the proposed project are: -
-Decreased soil quality resulting in increased runoff, erosion, and
sediment deposition in the watershed
-Removal of 29,308 tons of biomass resulting in extensive habitat loss
for wildlife
-Decreased watershed function resulting from increased overland flow,
decreased interception, and decreased infiltration rates
Based on our preliminary research and observations, we recommend against
the construction of a half pipe or lodge.
Discussion/Recommendations
Our proposal is against the building of the half pipe. Table 1
shows the difference between the two sites on rate of infiltration
and soil compaction. The rate of infiltration was higher at the half
pipe site compared to the lodge/parking lot site. Reversely, soil
compaction was higher for the lodge/parking lot site than that of
the half pipe site. We observed that the site we planned to have
the lodge/parking lot was already in use for camping. Based on
these observations we can conclude that the half pipe site will
end up with a lower infiltration rate and higher soil compaction.
The use of Leopold Matrix made it apparent that the installation
of a half pipe would be detrimental to all existing aspects of the
land excluding recreation. Forest clearing would be necessary to
make room for the half pipe and lodge. Water alteration would be
necessary for snow production and would diminish the riparian
habitat. Excavation of the land for the lodge complex would have
a negative effect on the soil condition such as increasing
compaction which would result in increased erosion.
Star: Half Pipe Location
Rectangle: Lodge/Parking
lot site
Our Recommendation
•Leave the area as it is or risk:
• Increased erosion and runoff
• Loss of wildlife
• Loss of natural vegetation
• Lower infiltration rate
• Higher soil compaction
• Increased sedimentation in the watershed
Figure 2
• Table 1 and Figure 2 are soil
infiltration and soil compaction data
collected from the Half Pipe site and
Lodge/Parking lot site being
assessed
Leopold Matrix Results
Physical Effects:
•Overall the greatest area of impact from
the proposed project would be soil and
water, with impact to streams being the
most extreme
Biological Effects:
•Forest clearing had the largest negative
impact on wildlife and fauna, followed by
water alteration caused by increased
erosion and diversions
Social Effects:
•This project most likely would have a
positive effect on the land with increased
tourism and recreation to the area
•The aesthetic value of the wilderness may
be decreased
Ecosystem Effects:
•Across the board, all construction
operations used to build the half pipe
would impact the ecosystem quality and
function
Photo
Courtesy of
Tanner
Marshall
Photo Courtesy
of Nytimes.com