82_FR_16844 82 FR 16779 - Revision of Land and Resource Management Plan for the Tonto National Forest; Counties of Coconino, Gila, Maricopa, Pinal, and Yavapai, Arizona

82 FR 16779 - Revision of Land and Resource Management Plan for the Tonto National Forest; Counties of Coconino, Gila, Maricopa, Pinal, and Yavapai, Arizona

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
Forest Service

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 65 (April 6, 2017)

Page Range16779-16782
FR Document2017-06788

As directed by the National Forest Management Act, the USDA Forest Service is revising the existing Tonto National Forest's Land and Resource Management Plan (hereafter referred to as Forest Plan) through development of an associated National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). This notice describes the documents available for review and how to obtain them; summarizes the needs to change to the existing Forest Plan; provides information concerning public participation and collaboration, including the process for submitting comments; provides an estimated schedule for the planning process, including the time available for comments; and includes the names and addresses of agency contacts who can provide additional information.

Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 65 (Thursday, April 6, 2017) 
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 65 (Thursday, April 6, 2017)]
[Notices]
[Pages 16779-16782]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-06788]


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Notices
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains documents other than rules 
or proposed rules that are applicable to the public. Notices of hearings 
and investigations, committee meetings, agency decisions and rulings, 
delegations of authority, filing of petitions and applications and agency 
statements of organization and functions are examples of documents 
appearing in this section.

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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 65 / Thursday, April 6, 2017 / 
Notices

[[Page 16779]]



DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Forest Service


Revision of Land and Resource Management Plan for the Tonto 
National Forest; Counties of Coconino, Gila, Maricopa, Pinal, and 
Yavapai, Arizona

AGENCY: Forest Service, USDA.

ACTION: Notice of intent to revise the Tonto National Forest Land and 
Resource Management Plan and prepare an associated Environmental Impact 
Statement.

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SUMMARY: As directed by the National Forest Management Act, the USDA 
Forest Service is revising the existing Tonto National Forest's Land 
and Resource Management Plan (hereafter referred to as Forest Plan) 
through development of an associated National Environmental Policy Act 
(NEPA) Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). This notice describes the 
documents available for review and how to obtain them; summarizes the 
needs to change to the existing Forest Plan; provides information 
concerning public participation and collaboration, including the 
process for submitting comments; provides an estimated schedule for the 
planning process, including the time available for comments; and 
includes the names and addresses of agency contacts who can provide 
additional information.

DATES: Comments concerning the Need to Change and Proposed Action 
provided in this notice will be most useful in the development of the 
revised plan and draft EIS if received by May 22, 2017. The agency 
expects to release a draft revised plan and draft EIS, developed 
through a collaborative public engagement process by late Spring 2018 
and a final revised plan and final EIS by Summer/Fall 2019.

ADDRESSES: Send written comments to: Tonto National Forest, Attn: Plan 
Revision, 2324 East McDowell Road, Phoenix, AZ 85006. Comments may also 
be sent via email to [email protected].

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kenna Belsky, Forest Planner, Tonto 
National Forest, 602-225-5378. More information on our forest plan 
revision process can be found on our Web site at www.tontoplan.org.
    Individuals who use telecommunication devices for the deaf (TDD) 
may call the Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 1-800-877-8339 
between 8 a.m. and 8p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Friday.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The National Forest Management Act (NFMA) of 
1976 requires that every National Forest System (NFS) unit develop a 
forest plan. On April 9, 2012, the Forest Service finalized its land 
management planning rule (2012 Planning Rule, 36 CFR part 219), which 
describes requirements for the planning process and the content of the 
forest plans. Forest plans describe the strategic direction for 
management of forest resources for ten to fifteen years, and are 
adaptive and amendable as conditions change over time. Under the 2012 
Planning Rule, the assessment of ecological, social, cultural, and 
economic conditions and trends is the first stage of the planning 
process (36 CFR 219.6). The second stage, formal plan revision, 
involves the development of our forest plan in conjunction with the 
preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement under the National 
Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The third stage of the process is 
monitoring and feedback, which is ongoing over the life of the revised 
forest plans.
    The Tonto National Forest has completed its assessment pursuant to 
2012 Forest Planning Rule. The assessment was developed with public 
participation and includes an evaluation of existing information about 
relevant ecological, economic, cultural and social conditions, trends, 
and sustainability and their relationship to forest plans within the 
context of the broader landscape. The intent of the Tonto National 
Forest is that this information builds a common understanding prior to 
entering formal plan revision. With this notice, the Tonto National 
Forest is initiating formal plan revision and invites other 
governments, non-governmental parties, and the public to contribute. 
The intent of public engagement is to inform development of the plan 
revision. We encourage contributors to share material that may be 
relevant to the planning process, including desired conditions for the 
Tonto National Forest. As we develop public engagement opportunities to 
assist with the plan revision phase, public announcements will be made 
and information will be posted on the Forest's Web site: 
www.tontoplan.org. If you would like to contribute to the process or 
for more information email [email protected], or contact Kenna 
Belsky, Forest Planner, Tonto National Forest, 602-225-5378.

Name and Address of the Responsible Official

    Neil Bosworth, Forest Supervisor, Tonto National Forest, 2324 E 
McDowell Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85006.

Nature of the Decision To Be Made

    The Tonto National Forest is preparing an EIS to revise the 
existing forest plan. The EIS process is meant to inform the Forest 
Supervisor so he can decide which alternative best maintains and 
restores National Forest System terrestrial and aquatic resources while 
providing ecosystem services and multiple uses, as required by the 
National Forest Management Act and the Multiple Use Sustained Yield 
Act.
    The revised forest plan will describe the strategic intent of 
managing the Forest for the next 10 to 15 years and will address the 
identified needs for change to the existing land management plans. The 
revised forest plan will provide management direction in the form of 
desired conditions, objectives, standards, guidelines, and suitability 
of lands. It will identify delineation of new management areas and 
possibly geographic areas across the Forest; identify the timber sale 
program quantity; make recommendations to Congress for Wilderness 
designation; and list rivers and streams eligible for inclusion in the 
National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. The revised forest plan will 
also provide a description of the plan area's distinctive roles and 
contributions within the broader landscape, identify watersheds that 
are a priority for maintenance or restoration, include a monitoring 
program, and contain information reflecting expected possible actions 
over the life of the plan.

[[Page 16780]]

    It is also important to identify the types of decisions that will 
not be made within the revised forest plan. The revised forest plan 
will represent decisions that are strategic in nature, but will not 
make site-specific project decisions and will not dictate day-to-day 
administrative activities needed to carry on the Forest Service's 
internal operations. The authorization of project level activities will 
be based on the guidance/direction contained in the revised plan, but 
will occur through subsequent project specific NEPA analysis and 
decision-making.
    The revised forest plan will provide broad, strategic guidance that 
is consistent with other laws and regulations. Though strategic 
guidance will be provided, no decisions will be made regarding the 
management of individual roads or trails, such as those might be 
associated with a Travel Management plan under 36 CFR part 212. Some 
issues (e.g., hunting regulations), although important, are beyond the 
authority or control of the National Forest System and will not be 
considered.

Purpose and Need (Needs for Change) and Proposed Action

    According to the National Forest Management Act, forest plans are 
to be revised at least every 15 years. The purpose and need for 
revising the current forest plan are to: (1) Update the Forest Plan 
which was approved in 1985 and is over 30 years old, (2) reflect 
changes in economic, social, and ecological conditions, new policies 
and priorities, and new information based on monitoring and scientific 
research, and (3) address the preliminary identified needs for change 
to the existing plan, which are summarized below. Extensive public and 
employee involvement, along with science-based evaluations, have helped 
to identify theses preliminary needs for change to the existing forest 
plan.
    The proposed action is to revise the Forest Plan to address the 
identified needs for change to the existing Forest Plan. Alternatives 
to the Proposed Action will be developed to address significant issues 
that will be identified through scoping.
    What follows is a summary of the preliminary identified needs for 
change. A more fully developed description of the preliminary needs for 
change, which has been organized into several resource and management 
topic sections, is available for review on the plan revision Web site 
at: www.tontoplan.org/public-involvement/needs-to-change.

Throughout the Plan

    1. There is a need for plan components that incorporate best 
available scientific information (BASI).
    2. There is a need to reduce the complexity of plan components 
related to management areas that fragment the landscape by their 
arrangement, boundaries, and differing management direction.
    3. There is a need to remove plan components that require 
developing additional planning documents, many of which require updates 
on a regular cycle.
    4. There is a need for plan components that are adaptable to 
changes in technology, tools, and communication style demands.
    5. There is a need for management approaches that emphasize public 
education about the Tonto National Forest's diverse ecological, social, 
and economic resources, the multiple-use philosophy, public laws and 
regulations, and management strategies.

Monitoring

    6. There is a need for a monitoring program that tracks progress 
toward desired conditions and allows for a responsive adaptive 
management program with available resources.

Collaboration and Partnerships

    7. There is a need to include management approaches that strengthen 
existing relationships, promote new relationships, and incorporate 
strategies that prioritize partnerships (e.g. local, state, and federal 
agencies, tribal governments, law enforcement, permitees, recreation 
and forest user groups, environmental groups, users with historic ties 
to the forest, and youth groups).
    8. There is a need for management approaches that promote seeking 
outside assistance in addition to working with partners and volunteers 
to manage resources and monitor activities.
    9. There is a need for management approaches that emphasize better 
coordination and collaboration with other forests, local governments, 
and tribes to minimize conflict between local planning and zoning 
direction as a result of our decisions, while at the same time becoming 
more aware of how local regulation might enhance our own management 
goals, or alternatively, interfere with our own desired outcomes.
    10. There is a need for management approaches that integrate forest 
restoration and tribal needs, for working across boundaries in 
partnership with tribes to manage landscapes, and to address threats to 
tribal resources to meet common objectives.

Terrestrial Ecosystems

    11. There is a need to develop desired conditions and other plan 
components that support heterogeneity and habitat diversity at multiple 
spatial scales.
    12. There is a need to include plan components that focus on 
addressing the impacts of exotic and invasive species on terrestrial 
and aquatic ecosystems.
    13. There is a need to develop desired conditions, standards, and 
guidelines that address terrestrial and aquatic habitat linkages and 
connectivity for species migration and movement across the landscape.
    14. There is a need for plan components that incorporate adaptive 
management strategies that increase ecosystem resiliency to changing 
environmental conditions and stressors.
    15. There is a need for standards or guidelines that prioritize use 
of native plant materials (the use of local and genetically appropriate 
seed sources) for revegetation, restoration and rehabilitation of 
native plant communities to provide for the conservation of ecosystem 
diversity and maintain healthy ecosystem function.
    16. There is a need to add plan components that emphasize landscape 
scale restoration.
    17. There is a need to develop desired conditions (at multiple 
scales) for vegetation structure by promoting a diversity of seral 
states, vegetation function, and species composition.

Frequent Fire Ecosystems

    18. There is a need for plan components, including desired 
conditions and objectives that recognize fire-adapted ecosystems, the 
role of fire on the landscape (including wilderness), and its use as a 
management tool, including planned and unplanned ignitions.

Desert Ecosystems

    19. There is a need for plan components, including desired 
conditions and standards and guidelines, to address current and 
foreseeable stressors in desert ecosystems (e.g., fire, exotic species, 
and other disturbances) and to better understand post-disturbance 
recovery of desert species.

Soils

    20. There is a need to develop standards and guidelines that 
promote the maintenance, restoration and monitoring of soil condition 
and

[[Page 16781]]

function (e.g., hydrology, stability, and nutrient cycling) by 
improving and maintaining sufficient ground cover (biotic and abiotic 
components).

Riparian Ecosystems

    21. There is a need for desired conditions that identify 
appropriate riparian characteristics (e.g., biodiversity, connectivity, 
water availability) that promote functionality and resiliency while 
taking into account multiple stressors.
    22. There is a need for standards and guidelines that minimize 
ecological impacts of multiple uses in riparian areas.

Watersheds and Water Resources

    23. There is a need for standards and guidelines that reduce 
pollutant runoff into streams.
    24. There is a need for providing plan components on the 
sustainable management of groundwater and groundwater dependent 
ecosystems (springs, wetlands, riparian areas, perennial waters) and 
their interconnections.
    25. There is a need to develop plan components for the long term 
health and sustainability of watersheds utilizing best available 
scientific information.
    26. There is a need to develop plan components to ensure stream 
channels and floodplains are dynamic and resilient to disturbances.

At-Risk Species

    27. There is a need to develop standards or guidelines to provide 
for the conservation and recovery of federally listed species, as well 
as maintain viable populations of species of conservation concern.

Climate Change

    28. There is a need to include plan components that consider 
potential climate change impacts (e.g., increases in storm events, 
uncharacteristic wildfire, drought, flooding, and other extreme 
weather) to ecosystems and natural resources.

Social and Economic Conditions

    29. There is a need to add plan components that recognize the Tonto 
National Forest's role in contributing to local economies, including 
service-based sectors such as recreation and tourism, timber, grazing, 
and other multiple-use related activities and products.

Ecosystems Services

    30. There is a need to include plan components for key ecosystem 
services identified in the Assessment including: Water for consumption; 
water for recreation; habitat for hunting, fishing, and watchable 
wildlife; sustainable and productive rangelands; and cultural heritage.
    31. There is a need for updating plan components that provide for 
the management of sustainable water supply for multiple uses (e.g. 
wildlife, grazing, and recreation) including public water supplies.

Timber and Forest Products

    32. There is a need for plan components to ensure the 
sustainability and availability of forest products such as firewood, 
medicinal and ceremonial plants, and edible plants.
    33. There is a need for desired conditions that incorporate a wide 
range of silvicultural practices to promote forest health, resiliency, 
and sustainability.

Rangeland Resources

    34. There is a need to add plan components for rangeland management 
that maintain or restore ecological integrity of rangelands.
    35. There is a need for plan components to allow flexibility in 
rangeland management to prepare for changing conditions such as 
drought, fire, social and economic needs.

Recreation

    36. There is a need to include plan components for sustainable 
recreation management to ensure that recreation resources are 
integrated into all resource management decisions.
    37. There is a need for desired conditions to address the long-term 
sustainability of recreation infrastructure (e.g., trails, facilities, 
roads), maintenance, design, and improvement.
    38. There is a need for management approaches to address changing 
trends in services, activities, and types of facilities desired by the 
public, while balancing those trends with other resources.
    39. There is a need for plan components to address user conflicts 
(e.g., recreational shooting and hikers, equestrians and bicyclists, 
and motorized and non-motorized users).

Scenic Character

    40. There is a need for plan components to incorporate scenery 
management with all forest management (e.g., restoration, habitat 
diversity, timber management) to further positive outcomes for all 
resources.

Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy Resources, Mineral Resources & 
Geologic Hazards

    41. There is a need for desired conditions that address 
transmission corridors and renewable energy generation, including wind, 
solar, biomass, and geothermal, while protecting natural resources, 
heritage and sacred sites, traditional tribal activities, and scenery.
    42. There is a need for plan components regarding the use of common 
variety mineral materials, such as commercial contracts, personal use, 
and free use permits.
    43. There is a need for standards and guidelines for meteorite 
collection, rock hounding and mineral collection.

Infrastructure

    44. There is a need for plan components that ensure sustainable 
infrastructure (e.g., roads, trails, recreation and administrative 
facilities, range improvements, maintenance backlog, etc.).

Cultural and Historic Resources and Tribal Uses

    45. There is a need for plan components aimed at managing for 
Native American traditional cultural properties and sacred sites, and 
non-Native American traditional cultural properties, while conserving 
anonymity of such sites where appropriate.
    46. There is a need for plan components that protect historic 
properties and tribal use areas at risk of damage or destruction during 
non-prescribed/unplanned fire.
    47. There is a need to update plan components to protect areas that 
may be identified as a sacred site or part of an important cultural 
landscape by tribe.
    48. There is a need for desired conditions in the plan that address 
the alignment of heritage resources management objectives (the 
management of historic properties and landscapes, sacred sites, 
contemporary uses) with other resource management objectives (ecosystem 
restoration, rangeland management, recreation).

Land Ownership, Status, Use, and Access

    49. There is a need to develop, modify, or remove plan components 
to allow flexible and efficient management of special uses while 
balancing resource protection with public needs.
    50. There is a need to develop plan components related to Forest 
Service lands acquisitions, disposals, and exchanges.
    51. There is a need for plan components that encourage the

[[Page 16782]]

protection of existing public access and address the acquisition of new 
public access opportunities.
    52. There is a need to include management approaches to develop a 
strategy to address issues related to known and suspected trespass and 
encroachment issues present on the forest.

Designated Areas

    53. There is a need for the revised plan to identify and evaluate 
potential additions to the National Wilderness Preservation System and 
eligibility of rivers for inclusion in the National Wild and Scenic 
Rivers Systems, and potentially other types of designated areas.
    54. There is a need to reevaluate designated and proposed special 
areas that no longer suite the original purpose for designation (i.e., 
research natural areas, botanical areas, burro territories, etc.), 
excluding congressionaly designated areas.

Public Involvement

    A Notice of Initiation of the assessment phase of forest plan 
revision for the Tonto National Forest was published in the Federal 
Register on February 26, 2014 (79 FR 10763). Prior to the formal 
initiation of the assessment, the Tonto National Forest held four 
listening sessions in Scottsdale, Globe, Payson, and Mesa, Arizona. 
These listening sessions provided existing collaborative porential and 
limitations and helped the plan revision team organize the public 
participation efforts for forest plan revision. In March of 2014 the 
Tonto National Forest hosted two all-day workshops to solicit comments, 
input, and desires from the public, governmental entities, tribes, land 
grants, and nongovernmental organization for public participation 
through the forest plan revision process. Between May-July 2014, eight 
community forums provided an introduction to forest plan revision and 
an opportunity for the public to provide input for the assessment by 
expressing how they use and value the forest, and what trends or 
changes they have observed. In September and October 2016 the Tonto 
National Forest hosted seven Needs to Change Public Meetings to discuss 
key findings from the draft assessment and collabotate on needs to 
change. The discussion focused on eleven key themes that ranged from 
ecological sustainability; social, cultural, and economic 
sustainability; and forest-wide management. Discussions from these 
meetings helped to shape the Draft Needs to Change document which was 
available for public reivew between December 15, 2016-January 11, 2017. 
Comments received from the public along with responses are posted to 
the Web site: www.tontoplan.org. The final needs to change statements 
are based on results from the assessment, input from a round of seven 
public meetings, and two rounds of public comment.
    Additionally, the Tonto National Forest is utilizing internet based 
collabotation techniquies to gather public input and engaging 
communities at a local level through presentations at meetings hosted 
by organizations, government groups and Tribes; informational booths at 
fairs and local community events; and presentations and field trips for 
local schools. Public Informaiton to the public was provided by a 
dedicated Forest Plan revision Web page and through mailings, flyers, 
news releases, Twitter, and radio interview. Detailed information, 
including dates and notes of specific events, can be found on the Tonto 
National Forest Plan Revision Web site: www.tontoplan.org. Any comments 
related to the Tonto National Forest's assessment report that are 
received following the publication of this Notice will be considered in 
the draft and final environmental impact statements.

Scoping Process

    Written comments received in response to this notice will be 
analyzed to complete the identification of the needs for change to the 
existing plan, further develop the proposed action, and identify 
potential significant issues. Significant issues will, in turn, form 
the basis for developing alternatives to the proposed action. Comments 
on the preliminary needs for change and proposed action will be most 
valuable if received by May 23, 2017, and should clearly articulate the 
reviewer's opinions and concerns. Comments received in response to this 
notice, including the names and addresses of those who comment, will be 
part of the public record. Comments submitted anonymously will be 
accepted and considered in the NEPA process; however, anonymous 
comments will not provide the Agency with the ability to provide the 
respondent with subsequent environmental documents, nor will anonymous 
comments provide standing to the commenter for the eventual Objection 
process. See the below Objection process material, particularly the 
requirements for filing an objection, for how anonymous comments are 
handled during the objection process. Refer to the Forest's plan 
revision Web site (www.tontoplan.org) for information on when public 
meetings will be scheduled for refining the proposed action and 
identifying possible alternatives to the proposed action.

Applicable Planning Rule

    Preparation of the revised forest plan for the Tonto National 
Forest began with the publication of a Notice of Assessment Initiation 
in the Federal Register on February 26, 2014 (79 FR 10763) and was 
initiated under the planning procedures contained in the 2012 Forest 
Service planning rule (36 CFR part 219 (2012)).

Permits or Licenses Required To Implement the Proposed Action

    No permits or licenses are needed for the development or revision 
of a forest plan.

Decisions Will Be Subject To Objection

    The decision to approve the revised forest plan for the Tonto 
National Forest will be subject to the objection process identified in 
36 CFR part 219 subpart B (219.50 to 219.62). According to 36 CFR 
219.53(a), those who may file an objection are individuals and entities 
who have submitted substantive formal comments related to plan revision 
during the opportunities provided for public comment during the 
planning process.

Documents Available for Review

    The Needs for Change documentation, Assessment Report including 
specialist reports, summaries of the public meetings and public meeting 
materials, and public comments are posted on the Forest's Web site at: 
www.tontoplan.org. As necessary or appropriate, the material available 
on this site will be further adjusted as part of the planning process 
using the provisions of the 2012 planning rule.

    Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1600-1614; 36 CFR part 219 [77 FR 21260-
21273].

    Dated: March 20, 2017.
Jeanne M. Higgins,
Associate Deputy Chief, National Forest System.
[FR Doc. 2017-06788 Filed 4-5-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3411-15-P

16779 Notices Federal Register Vol. 82, No. 65 Thursday, April 6, 2017 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER Revision, 2324 East McDowell Road, of public engagement is to inform contains documents other than rules or Phoenix, AZ 85006. Comments may also development of the plan revision. We proposed rules that are applicable to the be sent via email to tontoplan@fs.fed.us. encourage contributors to share material public. Notices of hearings and investigations, that may be relevant to the planning FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: committee meetings, agency decisions and process, including desired conditions rulings, delegations of authority, filing of Kenna Belsky, Forest Planner, Tonto National Forest, 602–225–5378. More for the Tonto National Forest. As we petitions and applications and agency statements of organization and functions are information on our forest plan revision develop public engagement examples of documents appearing in this process can be found on our Web site opportunities to assist with the plan section. at www.tontoplan.org. revision phase, public announcements Individuals who use will be made and information will be telecommunication devices for the deaf posted on the Forest’s Web site: DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE (TDD) may call the Federal Information www.tontoplan.org. If you would like to Relay Service (FIRS) at 1–800–877–8339 contribute to the process or for more Forest Service between 8 a.m. and 8p.m., Eastern Time, information email tontoplan@fs.fed.us, Monday through Friday. or contact Kenna Belsky, Forest Planner, Revision of Land and Resource Tonto National Forest, 602–225–5378. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Management Plan for the Tonto National Forest Management Act Name and Address of the Responsible National Forest; Counties of Coconino, (NFMA) of 1976 requires that every Official Gila, Maricopa, Pinal, and Yavapai, Arizona National Forest System (NFS) unit develop a forest plan. On April 9, 2012, Neil Bosworth, Forest Supervisor, AGENCY: Forest Service, USDA. Tonto National Forest, 2324 E the Forest Service finalized its land McDowell Road, Phoenix, Arizona ACTION: Notice of intent to revise the management planning rule (2012 85006. Tonto National Forest Land and Planning Rule, 36 CFR part 219), which Resource Management Plan and prepare describes requirements for the planning Nature of the Decision To Be Made an associated Environmental Impact process and the content of the forest The Tonto National Forest is Statement. plans. Forest plans describe the strategic preparing an EIS to revise the existing direction for management of forest forest plan. The EIS process is meant to SUMMARY: As directed by the National resources for ten to fifteen years, and are Forest Management Act, the USDA inform the Forest Supervisor so he can adaptive and amendable as conditions decide which alternative best maintains Forest Service is revising the existing change over time. Under the 2012 Tonto National Forest’s Land and and restores National Forest System Planning Rule, the assessment of terrestrial and aquatic resources while Resource Management Plan (hereafter ecological, social, cultural, and referred to as Forest Plan) through providing ecosystem services and economic conditions and trends is the multiple uses, as required by the development of an associated National first stage of the planning process (36 Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) National Forest Management Act and CFR 219.6). The second stage, formal the Multiple Use Sustained Yield Act. Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). plan revision, involves the development The revised forest plan will describe This notice describes the documents of our forest plan in conjunction with the strategic intent of managing the available for review and how to obtain the preparation of an Environmental Forest for the next 10 to 15 years and them; summarizes the needs to change Impact Statement under the National will address the identified needs for to the existing Forest Plan; provides Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The change to the existing land management information concerning public third stage of the process is monitoring plans. The revised forest plan will participation and collaboration, and feedback, which is ongoing over the provide management direction in the including the process for submitting life of the revised forest plans. form of desired conditions, objectives, comments; provides an estimated The Tonto National Forest has standards, guidelines, and suitability of schedule for the planning process, completed its assessment pursuant to lands. It will identify delineation of new including the time available for 2012 Forest Planning Rule. The management areas and possibly comments; and includes the names and assessment was developed with public geographic areas across the Forest; addresses of agency contacts who can participation and includes an evaluation identify the timber sale program provide additional information. of existing information about relevant quantity; make recommendations to DATES: Comments concerning the Need ecological, economic, cultural and Congress for Wilderness designation; to Change and Proposed Action social conditions, trends, and and list rivers and streams eligible for provided in this notice will be most sustainability and their relationship to inclusion in the National Wild and useful in the development of the revised forest plans within the context of the Scenic Rivers System. The revised forest plan and draft EIS if received by May broader landscape. The intent of the plan will also provide a description of 22, 2017. The agency expects to release Tonto National Forest is that this the plan area’s distinctive roles and mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with NOTICES a draft revised plan and draft EIS, information builds a common contributions within the broader developed through a collaborative understanding prior to entering formal landscape, identify watersheds that are public engagement process by late plan revision. With this notice, the a priority for maintenance or Spring 2018 and a final revised plan and Tonto National Forest is initiating restoration, include a monitoring final EIS by Summer/Fall 2019. formal plan revision and invites other program, and contain information ADDRESSES: Send written comments to: governments, non-governmental parties, reflecting expected possible actions over Tonto National Forest, Attn: Plan and the public to contribute. The intent the life of the plan. 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16780 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 65 / Thursday, April 6, 2017 / Notices It is also important to identify the Throughout the Plan tribes to manage landscapes, and to types of decisions that will not be made 1. There is a need for plan address threats to tribal resources to within the revised forest plan. The components that incorporate best meet common objectives. revised forest plan will represent available scientific information (BASI). Terrestrial Ecosystems decisions that are strategic in nature, but 2. There is a need to reduce the will not make site-specific project 11. There is a need to develop desired complexity of plan components related decisions and will not dictate day-to- conditions and other plan components to management areas that fragment the day administrative activities needed to that support heterogeneity and habitat landscape by their arrangement, carry on the Forest Service’s internal diversity at multiple spatial scales. boundaries, and differing management 12. There is a need to include plan operations. The authorization of project direction. level activities will be based on the components that focus on addressing 3. There is a need to remove plan the impacts of exotic and invasive guidance/direction contained in the components that require developing revised plan, but will occur through species on terrestrial and aquatic additional planning documents, many ecosystems. subsequent project specific NEPA of which require updates on a regular analysis and decision-making. 13. There is a need to develop desired cycle. conditions, standards, and guidelines The revised forest plan will provide 4. There is a need for plan that address terrestrial and aquatic broad, strategic guidance that is components that are adaptable to habitat linkages and connectivity for consistent with other laws and changes in technology, tools, and species migration and movement across regulations. Though strategic guidance communication style demands. the landscape. will be provided, no decisions will be 5. There is a need for management 14. There is a need for plan made regarding the management of approaches that emphasize public components that incorporate adaptive individual roads or trails, such as those education about the Tonto National management strategies that increase might be associated with a Travel Forest’s diverse ecological, social, and ecosystem resiliency to changing Management plan under 36 CFR part economic resources, the multiple-use environmental conditions and stressors. 212. Some issues (e.g., hunting philosophy, public laws and 15. There is a need for standards or regulations), although important, are regulations, and management strategies. guidelines that prioritize use of native beyond the authority or control of the plant materials (the use of local and National Forest System and will not be Monitoring genetically appropriate seed sources) for considered. 6. There is a need for a monitoring revegetation, restoration and program that tracks progress toward rehabilitation of native plant Purpose and Need (Needs for Change) desired conditions and allows for a communities to provide for the and Proposed Action responsive adaptive management conservation of ecosystem diversity and According to the National Forest program with available resources. maintain healthy ecosystem function. Management Act, forest plans are to be Collaboration and Partnerships 16. There is a need to add plan revised at least every 15 years. The components that emphasize landscape purpose and need for revising the 7. There is a need to include scale restoration. current forest plan are to: (1) Update the management approaches that strengthen 17. There is a need to develop desired Forest Plan which was approved in existing relationships, promote new conditions (at multiple scales) for 1985 and is over 30 years old, (2) reflect relationships, and incorporate strategies vegetation structure by promoting a changes in economic, social, and that prioritize partnerships (e.g. local, diversity of seral states, vegetation ecological conditions, new policies and state, and federal agencies, tribal function, and species composition. priorities, and new information based governments, law enforcement, on monitoring and scientific research, permitees, recreation and forest user Frequent Fire Ecosystems and (3) address the preliminary groups, environmental groups, users 18. There is a need for plan identified needs for change to the with historic ties to the forest, and components, including desired existing plan, which are summarized youth groups). conditions and objectives that recognize below. Extensive public and employee 8. There is a need for management fire-adapted ecosystems, the role of fire involvement, along with science-based approaches that promote seeking on the landscape (including evaluations, have helped to identify outside assistance in addition to wilderness), and its use as a theses preliminary needs for change to working with partners and volunteers to management tool, including planned the existing forest plan. manage resources and monitor and unplanned ignitions. activities. The proposed action is to revise the 9. There is a need for management Desert Ecosystems Forest Plan to address the identified approaches that emphasize better 19. There is a need for plan needs for change to the existing Forest coordination and collaboration with components, including desired Plan. Alternatives to the Proposed other forests, local governments, and conditions and standards and Action will be developed to address tribes to minimize conflict between guidelines, to address current and significant issues that will be identified local planning and zoning direction as foreseeable stressors in desert through scoping. a result of our decisions, while at the ecosystems (e.g., fire, exotic species, and What follows is a summary of the same time becoming more aware of how other disturbances) and to better preliminary identified needs for change. local regulation might enhance our own mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with NOTICES understand post-disturbance recovery of A more fully developed description of management goals, or alternatively, desert species. the preliminary needs for change, which interfere with our own desired has been organized into several resource outcomes. Soils and management topic sections, is 10. There is a need for management 20. There is a need to develop available for review on the plan revision approaches that integrate forest standards and guidelines that promote Web site at: www.tontoplan.org/public- restoration and tribal needs, for working the maintenance, restoration and involvement/needs-to-change. across boundaries in partnership with monitoring of soil condition and VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:51 Apr 05, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\06APN1.SGM 06APN1

Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 65 / Thursday, April 6, 2017 / Notices 16781 function (e.g., hydrology, stability, and identified in the Assessment including: Renewable and Nonrenewable Energy nutrient cycling) by improving and Water for consumption; water for Resources, Mineral Resources & maintaining sufficient ground cover recreation; habitat for hunting, fishing, Geologic Hazards (biotic and abiotic components). and watchable wildlife; sustainable and 41. There is a need for desired productive rangelands; and cultural conditions that address transmission Riparian Ecosystems heritage. corridors and renewable energy 21. There is a need for desired 31. There is a need for updating plan generation, including wind, solar, conditions that identify appropriate components that provide for the biomass, and geothermal, while riparian characteristics (e.g., management of sustainable water protecting natural resources, heritage biodiversity, connectivity, water supply for multiple uses (e.g. wildlife, and sacred sites, traditional tribal availability) that promote functionality grazing, and recreation) including activities, and scenery. and resiliency while taking into account public water supplies. 42. There is a need for plan multiple stressors. components regarding the use of 22. There is a need for standards and Timber and Forest Products common variety mineral materials, such guidelines that minimize ecological 32. There is a need for plan as commercial contracts, personal use, impacts of multiple uses in riparian components to ensure the sustainability and free use permits. areas. and availability of forest products such 43. There is a need for standards and Watersheds and Water Resources as firewood, medicinal and ceremonial guidelines for meteorite collection, rock plants, and edible plants. hounding and mineral collection. 23. There is a need for standards and guidelines that reduce pollutant runoff 33. There is a need for desired Infrastructure into streams. conditions that incorporate a wide range of silvicultural practices to promote 44. There is a need for plan 24. There is a need for providing plan components that ensure sustainable components on the sustainable forest health, resiliency, and sustainability. infrastructure (e.g., roads, trails, management of groundwater and recreation and administrative facilities, groundwater dependent ecosystems Rangeland Resources range improvements, maintenance (springs, wetlands, riparian areas, backlog, etc.). perennial waters) and their 34. There is a need to add plan interconnections. components for rangeland management Cultural and Historic Resources and 25. There is a need to develop plan that maintain or restore ecological Tribal Uses components for the long term health integrity of rangelands. 45. There is a need for plan and sustainability of watersheds 35. There is a need for plan components aimed at managing for utilizing best available scientific components to allow flexibility in Native American traditional cultural information. rangeland management to prepare for properties and sacred sites, and non- 26. There is a need to develop plan changing conditions such as drought, Native American traditional cultural components to ensure stream channels fire, social and economic needs. properties, while conserving anonymity and floodplains are dynamic and Recreation of such sites where appropriate. resilient to disturbances. 46. There is a need for plan 36. There is a need to include plan components that protect historic At-Risk Species components for sustainable recreation properties and tribal use areas at risk of 27. There is a need to develop management to ensure that recreation damage or destruction during non- standards or guidelines to provide for resources are integrated into all resource prescribed/unplanned fire. the conservation and recovery of management decisions. 47. There is a need to update plan federally listed species, as well as 37. There is a need for desired components to protect areas that may be maintain viable populations of species conditions to address the long-term identified as a sacred site or part of an of conservation concern. sustainability of recreation important cultural landscape by tribe. infrastructure (e.g., trails, facilities, 48. There is a need for desired Climate Change roads), maintenance, design, and conditions in the plan that address the 28. There is a need to include plan improvement. alignment of heritage resources components that consider potential management objectives (the 38. There is a need for management climate change impacts (e.g., increases management of historic properties and approaches to address changing trends in storm events, uncharacteristic landscapes, sacred sites, contemporary in services, activities, and types of wildfire, drought, flooding, and other uses) with other resource management facilities desired by the public, while extreme weather) to ecosystems and objectives (ecosystem restoration, balancing those trends with other natural resources. rangeland management, recreation). resources. Social and Economic Conditions 39. There is a need for plan Land Ownership, Status, Use, and 29. There is a need to add plan components to address user conflicts Access components that recognize the Tonto (e.g., recreational shooting and hikers, 49. There is a need to develop, National Forest’s role in contributing to equestrians and bicyclists, and modify, or remove plan components to local economies, including service- motorized and non-motorized users). allow flexible and efficient management mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with NOTICES based sectors such as recreation and Scenic Character of special uses while balancing resource tourism, timber, grazing, and other protection with public needs. multiple-use related activities and 40. There is a need for plan 50. There is a need to develop plan products. components to incorporate scenery components related to Forest Service management with all forest management lands acquisitions, disposals, and Ecosystems Services (e.g., restoration, habitat diversity, exchanges. 30. There is a need to include plan timber management) to further positive 51. There is a need for plan components for key ecosystem services outcomes for all resources. components that encourage the VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:51 Apr 05, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 E:\FR\FM\06APN1.SGM 06APN1

16782 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 65 / Thursday, April 6, 2017 / Notices protection of existing public access and document which was available for (www.tontoplan.org) for information on address the acquisition of new public public reivew between December 15, when public meetings will be scheduled access opportunities. 2016–January 11, 2017. Comments for refining the proposed action and 52. There is a need to include received from the public along with identifying possible alternatives to the management approaches to develop a responses are posted to the Web site: proposed action. strategy to address issues related to www.tontoplan.org. The final needs to known and suspected trespass and change statements are based on results Applicable Planning Rule encroachment issues present on the from the assessment, input from a round forest. Preparation of the revised forest plan of seven public meetings, and two rounds of public comment. for the Tonto National Forest began with Designated Areas the publication of a Notice of Additionally, the Tonto National 53. There is a need for the revised Forest is utilizing internet based Assessment Initiation in the Federal plan to identify and evaluate potential collabotation techniquies to gather Register on February 26, 2014 (79 FR additions to the National Wilderness public input and engaging communities 10763) and was initiated under the Preservation System and eligibility of at a local level through presentations at planning procedures contained in the rivers for inclusion in the National Wild meetings hosted by organizations, 2012 Forest Service planning rule (36 and Scenic Rivers Systems, and government groups and Tribes; CFR part 219 (2012)). potentially other types of designated informational booths at fairs and local areas. community events; and presentations Permits or Licenses Required To 54. There is a need to reevaluate and field trips for local schools. Public Implement the Proposed Action designated and proposed special areas Informaiton to the public was provided that no longer suite the original purpose No permits or licenses are needed for by a dedicated Forest Plan revision Web the development or revision of a forest for designation (i.e., research natural page and through mailings, flyers, news areas, botanical areas, burro territories, plan. releases, Twitter, and radio interview. etc.), excluding congressionaly Detailed information, including dates Decisions Will Be Subject To Objection designated areas. and notes of specific events, can be Public Involvement found on the Tonto National Forest Plan The decision to approve the revised Revision Web site: www.tontoplan.org. forest plan for the Tonto National Forest A Notice of Initiation of the Any comments related to the Tonto will be subject to the objection process assessment phase of forest plan revision National Forest’s assessment report that identified in 36 CFR part 219 subpart B for the Tonto National Forest was are received following the publication of (219.50 to 219.62). According to 36 CFR published in the Federal Register on this Notice will be considered in the 219.53(a), those who may file an February 26, 2014 (79 FR 10763). Prior draft and final environmental impact objection are individuals and entities to the formal initiation of the statements. assessment, the Tonto National Forest who have submitted substantive formal held four listening sessions in Scoping Process comments related to plan revision Scottsdale, Globe, Payson, and Mesa, during the opportunities provided for Written comments received in Arizona. These listening sessions public comment during the planning response to this notice will be analyzed provided existing collaborative to complete the identification of the process. porential and limitations and helped the needs for change to the existing plan, Documents Available for Review plan revision team organize the public further develop the proposed action, participation efforts for forest plan and identify potential significant issues. The Needs for Change documentation, revision. In March of 2014 the Tonto Significant issues will, in turn, form the Assessment Report including specialist National Forest hosted two all-day basis for developing alternatives to the reports, summaries of the public workshops to solicit comments, input, proposed action. Comments on the meetings and public meeting materials, and desires from the public, preliminary needs for change and and public comments are posted on the governmental entities, tribes, land proposed action will be most valuable if Forest’s Web site at: www.tontoplan.org. grants, and nongovernmental received by May 23, 2017, and should As necessary or appropriate, the organization for public participation clearly articulate the reviewer’s material available on this site will be through the forest plan revision process. opinions and concerns. Comments further adjusted as part of the planning Between May–July 2014, eight received in response to this notice, process using the provisions of the 2012 community forums provided an including the names and addresses of planning rule. introduction to forest plan revision and those who comment, will be part of the an opportunity for the public to provide public record. Comments submitted Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1600–1614; 36 CFR input for the assessment by expressing anonymously will be accepted and part 219 [77 FR 21260–21273]. how they use and value the forest, and considered in the NEPA process; Dated: March 20, 2017. what trends or changes they have however, anonymous comments will Jeanne M. Higgins, observed. In September and October not provide the Agency with the ability Associate Deputy Chief, National Forest 2016 the Tonto National Forest hosted to provide the respondent with System. seven Needs to Change Public Meetings subsequent environmental documents, [FR Doc. 2017–06788 Filed 4–5–17; 8:45 am] to discuss key findings from the draft nor will anonymous comments provide assessment and collabotate on needs to standing to the commenter for the BILLING CODE 3411–15–P mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with NOTICES change. The discussion focused on eventual Objection process. See the eleven key themes that ranged from below Objection process material, ecological sustainability; social, particularly the requirements for filing cultural, and economic sustainability; an objection, for how anonymous and forest-wide management. comments are handled during the Discussions from these meetings helped objection process. Refer to the Forest’s to shape the Draft Needs to Change plan revision Web site VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:51 Apr 05, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 9990 E:\FR\FM\06APN1.SGM 06APN1


Document Created: 2017-04-06 01:47:00
Document Modified: 2017-04-06 01:47:00
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionNotices
ActionNotice of intent to revise the Tonto National Forest Land and Resource Management Plan and prepare an associated Environmental Impact Statement.
DatesComments concerning the Need to Change and Proposed Action provided in this notice will be most useful in the development of the revised plan and draft EIS if received by May 22, 2017. The agency expects to release a draft revised plan and draft EIS, developed through a collaborative public engagement process by late Spring 2018 and a final revised plan and final EIS by Summer/Fall 2019.
ContactKenna Belsky, Forest Planner, Tonto National Forest, 602-225-5378. More information on our forest plan revision process can be found on our Web site at www.tontoplan.org.
FR Citation82 FR 16779 
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