USFS issues draft plan for Metolius

Seven years after the Metolius River was designated a wild and scenic stream by the federal government and the State Scenic Waterways system, the U.S. Forest Service has released a draft environmental impact statement for management of the river.

Interested groups and individuals have until February 16, 1996, to comment on the draft, which is contained in a very detailed, 234- page document mailed recently to "Metolius enthusiasts."

The Draft EIS presents a preferred alternative plan gleaned primarily from five original alternatives by members of the Metolius River Interagency Coordination Group composed of representatives of Jefferson County, state of Oregon, Forest Service, Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation.

In general, the preferred alternative places "a high emphasis on protection and rehabilitation" of natural resources in the 9,435 acres of river corridor encompassed by the plan. This would require a "moderate to high investment in physical travel and site controls, and/or administrative rules and a limited entry permit system," according to the draft.

Some highlights:

Recreational capacity would be maintained at or slightly below the current level for most user groups.

Many existing recreational facilities would be modified or managed to provide "a more primitive experience."

The lower Metolius, from Candle Creek to Lake Billy Chinook, would be designated "scenic," with motorized traffic restricted between the Candle Creek and Monty campgrounds.

The upper Metolius would be managed as a "recreational stream" with less emphasis on a primitive experience.

The plan would provide varying amounts of improvement to environmental factors in the Metolius Basin, according to its authors. These would include water quality and quantity, soils, forest vegetation, the risk and intensity of wildfires (reduced), riparian vegetation, fish and wildlife habitat, natural and cultural scenery, threatened and endangered species, public safety (slight benefit) and overall recreation experience.

Motorized access would be reduced by the closure of 20.5 miles of existing roads, located mostly in the lower river.

Dispersed motorized camping capacity would be greatly reduced and recreational vehicle camping would be slightly more limited. Some new areas would be available for walk- in and tent campers, and day- use capacity would benefit slightly.

The 108 summer homes located along the banks of the Metolius on land leased from the federal government would be retained, in keeping with "the unique and historic community of Camp Sherman."

Provision would be made for some "beneficial improvements" to the summer homes. Some owners, however, would be adversely affected by "additional costs and regulations."

Boating between Gorge Campground and Bridge 99 would not be limited, but would be monitored "to establish a future threshold."

Boating from Bridge 99 to Monty Campground would be limited to 300 to 500 boaters during a season extending from June 1 to September 30. (Motorized boating is prohibited on the Metolius.)

Wood in the lower river would not be manipulated for boat passage. "Natural wood accumulations will eventually make boating unfeasible," according to the draft. At that time, the river would be closed to boating.

Copies of the Draft EIS document are available at no cost from the Sisters Ranger District offices. Questions about the draft should be directed to Rod Bonacker or Tori Roberts, P.O. Box 249, Sisters 97759, or call (541) 549- 2111.