Your National Forests Summer/Fall 2015

The Magazine of the National Forest Foundation

Summer – Fall 2015

Alien Invasion PROTECTING OUR WATERWAYS

The Best Places to Paddle 10 NATIONAL FOREST DESTINATIONS

What Floats Your Boat?

NEW WATERSPORTS OFFER SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Board of Directors Executive Committee Craig Barrett, NFF Chair Retired CEO/Board Chairman, Intel Corporation (AZ) John Hendricks, NFF Vice Chair Hendricks Investment Holdings, LLC (MD) Max Chapman, NFF Vice Chair Chairman, Gardner Capital Management Corp. (TX) Lee Fromson, NFF Treasurer Executive Vice President, Simms Fishing (UT) Timothy P. Schieffelin, NFF Secretary Senior Wealth Director, BNY Mellon Wealth Management (CT) Caroline Choi, Member Vice President, Integrated Planning & Environmental Affairs, Southern California Edison (CA) Peter Foreman, Member Sirius LP (IL)

Board of Directors David Bell, Chairman, Gyro, LLC (NY) Mike Brown, Jr., General Partner, Bowery Capital (NY)

SUPPORT YOUR NATIONAL FORESTS Donate today to ensure these resources last for tomorrow. $50 will plant 50 trees — helping ensure the health and vitality of our remarkable National Forests and Grasslands. $100 will send 10 students to a Friends of the Forest® volunteer day. $1,000 will restore up to one acre of forest.

Visit www.nationalforests.org/give to contribute today.

Coleman Burke, President, Waterfront Properties (NY) Robert Cole, Partner, Collins Cockrel & Cole, P.C. (CO) Bart Eberwein, Executive Vice President, Hoffman Construction Company (OR) Robert Feitler, Chairman of the Executive Committee, Weyco Group, Inc. (IL) Barry Fingerhut, CEO/Owner, Certification Partners, LLC (AZ) Rick Frazier, Chief Product Supply & Service Officer, Coca-Cola Refreshments, North America Group (GA) Roje S. Gootee, Co-Owner& Manager, Rush Creek Ranch, LLC (OR) Andie MacDowell, Actress and Spokesperson (CA) Jeff Paro, CEO, InterMedia Outdoors (NY) Patricia Hayling Price, President, LiveWorkStrategize, LLC (NY) Mary Smart, President, Smart Family Foundation (NY) Thomas Tidwell, Ex-Officio, Chief, U.S. Forest Service (DC) Chad Weiss, Managing Director, JOG Capital Inc. (WY) James Yardley, Senior Vice President, El Paso Corporation, Retired (TX) ®2015 National Forest Foundation and Old Town Creative Communications, LLC. No unauthorized reproduction of this material is allowed.

welcome letter

Water, Water, Everywhere

By Bill Possiel, NFF President

T

he Earth's surface is 71% water. All living organisms are made up of up to 70% water. The human body is up to 60% water. Only 3% of Earth’s water is

fresh, the other 97% is salt water.

On a recent field trip to the Carson National Forest in New Mexico, I was moved by the spectacular landscape, the large heard of elk we came upon, and the unique partnership that has formed to help care for the water resources that are so important to the human and natural communities in the area. The Forest Service, the Quivira Coalition, Trout Unlimited and the local ranching cooperative, with the support of Coca-Cola North America, are implementing incredible water replenishment projects on the Forest.

What we saw on the Carson were several examples of how forests and meadows absorb and retain water, enhancing ground water recharge and ensuring that natural and human communities have fresh water throughout the year by regulating flow regimes. The National Forest System is the largest single source of water in the continental United States and provides reliable water supplies for more than one-third of the U.S. population (123 million people) in nearly 3,400 communities. National Forests are truly America’s headwaters.

As California addresses a water crisis by putting restrictions in place and focusing on reducing water use, it is critical to residents, agriculture and the robust economy of California to take the long view and address water supply issues. Approximately 60 percent of the fresh water supply in California originates on the state's National Forests. Clearly, there is a need to reduce the risk of severe fire, which dramatically affects the quality of water and reduces watersheds’ ability to store, filter and provide a steady supply. There is also a need to reforest areas damaged by fire, so that the natural system is given a boost in recovery. This active management is essential if we are to accelerate regeneration, stabilize our forested watersheds, provide habitat for fish and wildlife and produce a direct benefit to human populations downstream.

Throughout this issue of Your National Forests you will find a wide variety of articles that focus on water. The

subject is timely and important, but it is certainly not new. Public concern about adequate supplies of clean water led to the establishment of federally protected forest reserves in 1891. The Forest Service Organic Act of 1897 specifically stated that, “No National Forest shall be established, except to improve and protect the forest within the boundaries, or for the purpose of securing favorable conditions of water flows….” The Weeks Act of 1911 established Eastern National Forests with a focus on watershed protection as well.

Water has sculpted the biological and physical landscape through erosion and disturbance. The availability of water is reflected in the vegetative mosaic across the landscapes of our nation. Human communities developed around places where fresh water was available for use and for transportation. Viable populations of fish and wildlife cannot persist without the availability of fresh water, and waterways have always been attractive for escaping the summer heat and providing recreational opportunities for millions of forest visitors.

So once again, American citizens—especially those in the West—have a growing appreciation for the vision at the turn of the century that created the National Forest System. Today, if joined together, our National Forests and Grasslands are larger than the state of Texas. Over time, the importance of this resource base that belongs to every American will become increasingly meaningful.

The National Forest Foundation is dedicated to promoting the health and public enjoyment of this spectacular water storage and filtration system through our Restoring America’s Headwaters initiative. We hope that when you lift your glass of fresh, clean water, you will think of where it came from. The answer in many places in the U.S. is a forest near you!

Summer – Fall 2015

1

inside this edition

Welcome

3

Where in the Woods

4

Forests by the Numbers

features

Water, Water, Everywhere How well can you identify your National Forests?

Water cycles through our National Forests

5

Field Reports

6

Kids and Nature

8

Tree Spotlight

14

Places to Paddle

20

From Shepherds to Ski Resorts

Did your favorite paddle place make the list?

NFF's watershed investments Making a splash

Sentinels of the swamp

10

Conservation

28

Voices from the Forest

30

Forest News

33

Forest Perspectives

Fighting aquatic invasive species

The diverse history of the Tahoe National Forest

A conversation with lifelong conservationist, Coleman Burke Updates from our National Forests Traditional Basque outdoor ovens

24

Deeper, Closer, Faster

New water sports are flooding the nation's rivers

on the cover Packrafting the Middle Fork of the Salmon River, Salmon-Challis National Forest, Idaho. © Jim Harris / perpetualweekend.com

2

Your National Forests

Photo © U.S. Department of Agriculture / flickr.com; Grant Kaye; Adam Masters / Bellyak, Inc.

1

where in the woods This National Forest is named for a famed frontiersman of the 1700s.

Photo © Erick Gustafson / flickr.com

See page 32 for the answer.

National Forest Foundation

Your National Forests

Building 27, Suite 3 Fort Missoula Road Missoula, Montana 59804 406.542.2805

The magazine of the National Forest Foundation Editor-in-Chief Greg M. Peters Contributors Hannah Ettema, Ray A. Foote, John Frandsen, Jane Braxton Little, Marlee Ostheimer, Greg M. Peters, William J. Possiel, Brianna Randall, Dayle Wallien Graphic Artist David A. Downing, Old Town Creative Communications, LLC

Your National Forests magazine is printed on recycled paper with 30% postconsumer content. This magazine’s use of FSC certified paper ensures the highest environmental and social standards have been followed in the wood sourcing, paper manufacturing, and print production of this magazine. To learn more log on to www.fsc.org.

The National Forest Foundation is a proud member of EarthShare, the country’s leading federation of environmental and conservation organizations accepting Combined Federal Campaign workplace contributions from federal civilian, postal and military employees.

Look for the National Forest Foundation— CFC #12053—on EarthShare’s website at earthshare.org.

National Forest Foundation William J. Possiel President Mary Mitsos Executive Vice President Ray A. Foote Executive Vice President Edward Belden Southern California Program Associate Sheree Bombard Director, Administration Karen DiBari Director, Conservation Connect Hannah Ettema Communications and Development Associate Robin Hill Controller Natalie Kuehler Volunteer and Community Engagement Coordinator Adam Liljeblad Director, Conservation Awards Zia Maumenee Conservation Awards Associate Luba Mullen Associate Director, Development Emily Olsen Conservation Connect Associate Marlee Ostheimer Development Associate Greg M. Peters Director, Communications Lee Quick Accountant Emily Struss Conservation Associate Vance Russell Director, California Program Marcus Selig Director, Southern Rockies Region Mark Shelley Director, Eastern Region Deborah Snyder Manager, Development Services Wes Swaffar Senior Manager, Ecosystem Services Dayle Wallien Field Representative, Pacific Northwest Program

Summer – Fall 2015

3

forests by the numbers

W

ater is one of the Earth’s most precious resources.

Without it, we wouldn’t survive. Our National Forests and Grasslands play a huge role in providing clean water to Americans in cities and towns from Seattle to Atlanta.

237 Inches One of the wettest places in the U.S., Alaska’s Baranof Island on the Tongass National Forest, receives an average annual precipitation of 237 inches a year. The Olympic National Forest in Northwest Washington takes second place with approximately 150 inches of precipitation annually.

100+ Waterfalls Western North Carolina has claimed itself the “Land of Waterfalls” and for good reason. The Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests that cover much of the western portion of the state boast some of the highest concentrations of waterfalls in the country. More than 100 named waterfalls cascade from the Forests’ steep mountains.

2,000 Lakes It’s probably no surprise that Minnesota’s Superior National Forest has the highest number of lakes of any National Forest in the country with more than 2,000; it is in the “Land of 10,000 Lakes” after all. The Chippewa National Forest in Minnesota (again, no surprise) lists an impressive 1,300 lakes as well.

620 Feet Measuring waterfalls can be a tricky endeavor, but Multnomah Falls on the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is generally credited with being the second tallest continually flowing waterfall in the U.S. The tallest is Yosemite Falls in Yosemite National Park. At 620 feet, Multnomah is 65 feet taller than the Washington Monument.

46,000,000 Visits Americans love to fish and our National Forests protect some of the best fishing waters in the country. These landscapes host 46,000,000 fishing visits annually.

3,700,000,000 Dollars Water is an incredibly valuable resource. From producing our food to enabling industry, the value of water flowing from our National Forests and Grasslands is conservatively estimated at a whopping $3.7 billion.

1,645 Feet Spectacular Lake Tahoe, in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, is the second deepest lake in the U.S., at 1,645 feet. Seventy-five percent of the lake is surrounded by the Forest Service’s Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit, making it the deepest lake on a National Forest.

4

Your National Forests

3,400 Communities National Forests and Grasslands are the single largest source of water in the country. The watersheds managed by the Forest Service provide municipal water supplies to more than 3,400 communities across the country. Do you know where your water comes from?

Illustrations © David A. Downing / Old Town Creative

Water Cycles throughout our National Forests

field reports

Watershed Investments

W

atershed restoration has long been a priority at the NFF. Whether through our grants programs, our Treasured Landscapes campaign or our collaborative efforts, we have worked to improve the health of the

National Forests and Grasslands that provide our country with one of its most precious resources—water. The results below highlight just how much the NFF and our on-the-ground partners have done since 2001 to benefit our shared watersheds.

517,865 Hours

of volunteer time logged since 2001

1,592 Miles

311 Miles

330 Road Crossings

195 Miles

22,942 Acres

2,084 Acres

21,278 Acres

360 Acres

of streams surveyed

or culverts repaired or installed

treated for invasive species

=200

42,329 Volunteers

of habitat restored or maintained for wildlife

of streams restored

of road restored or decommissioned

of wetland or riparian areas restored

of recreation damage restored

CORPORATE PARTNER OneMain Financial has been a proud supporter of the NFF’s Trees for US program since 2014.

This year, we are helping plant 200,000 trees in the Custer-Gallatin National Forest, part of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.

Summer – Fall 2015

5

kids and nature

Are your kids ready to make a splash?

By Hannah Ettema

W

Portage Valley on the Chugach National Forest, Alaska.

hether tubing down a quiet river, canoeing around a forested lake or spending the day at a beach, the waterways on our National Forests provide a gateway to discovery for children of all ages.

With 119 Wild and Scenic Rivers, 1,200 boating sites, thousands of miles of streams and countless beaches, picnic areas and lakefront campgrounds, National Forests offer a lifetime of opportunity for exploring the watery world. And what kid doesn’t like water? Toddlers seem inexorably drawn to mud puddles, while hard to impress teenagers gleefully compete to see who can jump off the highest rock or spend the most time underwater.

An afternoon, day or week spent exploring our National Forests' waterways provides memories that last a lifetime. But before any water adventure, it’s important to review some basic safety measures.

6

Your National Forests

Ensure your child wears a properly fitted personal floatation device (PFD). In addition to the right amount of floatation for their weight, make sure the PFD is comfortable. If it causes the child discomfort, they’ll resist wearing it. Always check PFD regulations in your state and be sure to comply, even on mellow water.

Prepare for various water and air temperatures. Even on a hot day, kids can become chilled. A good rule of thumb: if the air and water temperature don’t add up to more than 100 degrees, there’s a real chance of hypothermia. Keep an eye out for blue lips and excessive shivering—both are signs that your kiddo is getting cold and needs to warm up.

kids and nature Photos © USDA Forest Service

Little Missouri River on the Ouachita National Forest, Arkansas.

Use sunscreen throughout the day and wear a wide-brimmed hat. Water washes off sunscreen—even the “waterproof” kind, so be sure to reapply throughout the day.

Drink lots of water. Playing all day in a lake or river can be taxing on small bodies (and large ones for that matter). Be sure your kids stay hydrated all day long.

Set a good example. Kids follow the lead of their parents and older siblings. Wear your PFD if you want your kids to wear theirs. Drink plenty of water. Use sunscreen.

Fortunately, spending a day on the water does not have to be expensive.

Sure renting a motorboat for a day isn’t cheap, but many National Forest recreation sites are free or low cost to enjoy for the day. Day-use beach areas at the lake or floats down a river on an inner tube or “noodle” (remember to wear PFD’s) can be very inexpensive ways to foster a life-long connection to nature.

Many outfitters around National Forests rent canoes, kayaks and other equipment for a modest fee.

Use water to encourage nature watching and forest discoveries with little ones. As you float down the river or paddle across the lake, look for birds flying above or critters at the water’s edge stopping for a drink. A $20 mask and snorkel can provide a week’s worth of entertainment as kids watch what’s happening under the water's surface. Simply exploring a river bank or lakeshore, skipping rocks and searching for water bugs can occupy kids for hours, letting their minds run free while learning about nature.

As warmer seasons arrive and kids pine for adventure, look to our National Forests for a watery escape and new way to experience our public lands.

Hannah Ettema Hannah is the Communications and Development Associate at the NFF. When she’s not running the NFF’s Social Media program or lending her design skills to fellow staff, she’s out exploring Montana’s National Forests. Reach her at hettema@nationalforests.org.

Summer – Fall 2015

7

tree spotlight

Sentinels of the Swamp: Cypress and Tupelo Trees

By Dayle Wallien

R

ising tall from dark, murky waters, the bald cypress tree is a stately symbol of the swamp. Associated with the bayou, Spanish moss, pelicans, egrets and alligators, the bald cypress (Taxodium distichum) is the state tree of Louisiana. Its feathery

foliage, wide and buttressed base and irregular crown dominate many southeastern wetlands, and its range extends throughout the southeastern U.S. from southern Delaware to eastern Texas.

Bald cypress prefer saturated or seasonally inundated wetland soils, low elevations, flat topography and humid climates; although ornamental species can be cultivated in a variety of climates. While it is a cone bearing member of the coniferous redwood family, it is in fact deciduous, losing its flat, one to two centimeter long needles in the winter, a characteristic that led to it being dubbed the “bald” cypress. “Cypress knees,” or protrusions that grow from the trees’ roots and stick out above the water are thought to help stabilize the tree against hurricane force winds and may aid in respiration for trees that are consistently standing in water.

Bald cypress can grow for thousands of years and reach heights of 100-150 feet. The largest pond cypress (considered by some botanists as a variety of bald cypress and by others as a distinct species), called “the Senator” was estimated to be 3,500 years old, making it the fifth oldest tree in the world. The largest tree of any species east of the Mississippi River, with a volume of 5,100 cubic feet, and located in Longwood, Florida, the Senator was tragically destroyed by arson on January 16, 2012.

Old-growth bald cypress are sought after for their heartwood—the cypressene oil they contain is a natural preservative, making the wood resistant to both rot and insects. The gray to red-brown, stringy bark is popular for shredded landscaping mulch. While the trees are prized for both their construction and ornamental values, they also play a vital role in wetland ecology. The buttressed trunks and knees of living cypress, as well as the fallen, dead trees, provide habitat for fish. Eagles and ospreys nest in the crowns. The seeds are a food source for squirrels, wild turkeys, evening grosbeaks and wood ducks.

8

Your National Forests

Cypress swamps are also important for flood mitigation. Acting like a giant sponge, these wetlands absorb water and trap sediments. The cypress trees’ extended, raised root systems help this process by slowing and spreading floodwaters as they flow through a swamp, allowing the water to soak into the soil.

Bald cypress are often found growing with another type of swamp loving tree, the tupelo. Of the Nyssa genus, the tupelo prefers wet soils and seasonal flooding (in Greek mythology, the Nyssa were freshwater nymphs).

The name “tupelo,” a common name used for several varieties of Nyssa trees, literally means “swamp tree” in the language of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation (ito 'tree' + opilwa 'swamp'). In North America, there are several species of tupelo: black, black gum or swamp tupelo (N. sylvatica, swamp tupelo var. biflora); water tupelo, (N. aquatic); and Ogeechee tupelo (N. ogeche).

Black gum, black or swamp tupelo is the most far ranging tupelo tree, extending throughout the eastern and southcentral U.S. The water tupelo has a range nearly identical to the bald cypress tree. Specialized roots allow it to live in consistently inundated environments, and its swollen base, tapering up a long trunk, provides stability in heavy winds and floods. Black and water tupelo wood is used extensively by artistic woodcarvers, especially for carving ducks and other wildfowl. The Ogeechee tupelo's range is limited to northern Florida and the southern portions of Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina.

tree spotlight Photos © finchlake2000 / flickr.com; warren1971 / istockphoto.com; ByMPhotos / istockphoto.com

Tupelo Gum trees.

Tupelo fruit, high in crude fat, fiber, phosphorous and calcium, is an important wildlife food source, and because of its many cavities, black tupelo is an important den tree species. The tree’s shiny, green, elliptical leaves vary from two to five inches in length and turn purple, then scarlet or yellow in autumn, making it a popular ornamental.

The fruit of the Ogeechee tupelo, referred to as “ogeechee lime,” is sometimes used in drinks, marmalades and sauces. But the tree is most valued for its role in creating the champagne of honeys, a mild, vanilla flavored nectar, prized by chefs and foodies and even memorialized in song. The center of the commercial tupelo honey industry is the Apalachicola River in the Florida Panhandle, near the Apalachicola National Forest. There, beekeepers transport their beehives by boat and float them along the river swamps during the tupelo blossom in late April and early May to collect the tupelo honey. Once certified through a pollen analysis, the monofloral Ogeechee tupelo honey brings a high price.

Want to see these fascinating trees for yourself, but don’t own a boat that can get you through the swamp? No problem: the Bear Swamp Interpretive Trail, in the Salt Springs Recreation Area on the Ocala National Forest, provides a boardwalk through an old-growth cypress swamp. On the Kisatchie National Forest, you can bike or hike the easy Glenn Emery Trail, where a boardwalk gets you across the swampy portions.

Leaves of the Nyssa sylvatica in seasonal colors.

Dayle Wallien Dayle is the NFF’s Pacific Northwest Field Representative. An avid long-distance runner, Dayle can be found pounding the trails around Washington or climbing peaks throughout the western U.S. Reach her at dwallien@nationalforests.org.

Summer – Fall 2015

9

conservation

Hitchhikers Invade: Battling Aquatic Invasive Species

By Greg M. Peters

F

rom thrilling whitewater to placid ponds, the waterways of our National Forests provide us with endless opportunities to fish, paddle and relax. And we take advantage of these opportunities.

Each year, these ribbons of blue host 46 million visits for fishing

alone and millions more for paddling and other water-based recreation.

Ironically, those who love these places the most are inadvertently imperiling them by introducing non-native organisms to popular recreational waterways. How? As boaters travel to explore new fishing holes, rivers and lakeside campsites, “hitchhikers” in the form of Aquatic Invasive Species or “AIS” catch a ride in boat bilges, on trailers or attached to hulls and other gear.

It’s a double-edged sword. More people recreating on our National Forests means more people invested in forest health. But as people move around the country to fish a new lake or paddle a new river, they become vectors for AIS. These accidental introductions wreak havoc on our nation’s waterways, especially on the streams, rivers and lakes that dot our National Forests.

Dale Bosworth, a former Forest Service Chief, specifically identified invasive species, both terrestrial and aquatic, in his 2006 declaration about the four major threats facing our National Forests. Bosworth noted that, “Public lands—especially federal lands—have become the last refuge for endangered species—the last place where they can find the habitat they need to survive. If invasives take over, these imperiled animals and plants will have nowhere else to go.” By including invasive species with the three other threats: forest fuels, unmanaged recreation and loss of open space, Bosworth raised their profile both inside and outside of the agency.

In the ten years since Bosworth’s declaration, invasive species, and AIS in particular, have remained a vexing challenge for the agency despite its laudable efforts to control them.

Boats From Everywhere “I was totally blown away at how far people were coming,” said Steve Shelly, a botanist and invasive species expert in the Forest Service’s Region One office. Steve and I were looking at a map of Montana put out by Montana’s Fish Wildlife and Parks (FWP) agency that showed the origin of all boats that passed through the state’s watercraft inspection stations in 2014. Covered with dots from almost every state in the country, including Alaska and Hawaii, the map highlights one of the most difficult AIS challenges. When these visitors travel with their boats, they can also travel with AIS. If the boats and equipment aren’t properly drained and cleaned, those hitchhikers can end up in a new waterbody.

Undetected, these invaders pose huge threats to aquatic ecosystems.

Because invasive species evolved elsewhere and “invade” new places (mostly with unintentional human help), there isn’t enough existing biological resistance within the ecosystem to prevent their proliferation. Predators and other environmental limitations in the new environment can’t keep them in check. So they spread, causing a cascade of negative impacts on local ecosystems by using up resources like food and habitat that are then unavailable for native species. They also affect local economies by damaging infrastructure like docks and boat ramps, intake pipes and irrigation head gates, and they threaten sport fisheries and other water-based recreation opportunities.

If the boats and equipment aren’t properly drained and cleaned, those hitchhikers can end up in a new waterbody.

10

Your National Forests

conservation

Most of the biggest offenders evolved on a completely different continent. Eurasian watermilfoil came from Europe. Quagga mussels are from Ukraine. Zebra mussels are from Russia. Introduced to America in the mid-20th century, likely through the St. Lawrence Seaway that opened up a route for transatlantic ships to travel directly to the Great Lakes, AIS have been steadily making their way around the country on commercial and pleasure craft.

Vested Interest, Complex Problem The scope of the problem is immense, and the management of species within and across state borders is complicated. State agencies oversee species within their respective borders, meaning it’s technically up to states to deal with AIS. However, the Forest Service clearly has a vested interest in keeping National Forest System lands and waters healthy. So the agency partners with state fish and game departments, county governments and nonprofits to battle AIS through a wide variety of programs and partnerships.

In the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, a landscape that includes three states, five National Forests, two National Parks and other state and federally-managed lands, the partnerships take numerous forms.

A history of agency collaboration helps in this area, but it still takes a concerted effort and dedicated funding to make sure all the players are coordinated. Much of that coordination is accomplished through the Greater Yellowstone Coordinating Committee (GYCC).

Clint Sestrich is the Chair of the GYCC’s AIS subcommittee. “By far, the bulk of our work is focused on prevention,” he explained. “Our eradication toolbox is much smaller for AIS than for terrestrial invasive species.

It’s very expensive, difficult and often just ineffective to remove AIS once they’re established. So we really concentrate on prevention.”

The AIS subcommittee recommends various projects for funding from dollars pooled by the participating agencies. Much of the funding is granted out to local groups, like the Livingston, Montana-based Invasive Species Action Network. This group received GYCC funding, along

with funding from Trout Unlimited and other sources, to install wader washing stations in all of the fly-fishing shops that surround the Yellowstone region. These wash stations allow anglers to clean their gear after each fishing excursion and provide messaging about the importance of preventing the spread of AIS. The subcommittee also supports other innovative programs like training agency officials to visit area schools and teach young people about AIS and their harmful effects. Additional support is dedicated to an effort to analyze various state-run watercraft inspection and washing stations to see where each state has gaps, to share lessons learned, and ensure that each state has the most robust program it can.

Great Lakes, Great Problems In the Midwest, AIS are a huge problem. When the St. Lawrence Seaway opened to trans-Atlantic ship traffic in 1957, it opened the flood gates for AIS. Since that time, there have been at least 53 AIS introduced to the Great Lakes via shipping, including two of the most damaging species: quagga and zebra mussels.

These two small, seemingly innocuous mussels have caused billions of dollars in damage to power plants, municipal water systems, docks, recreation facilities, marinas and more.

“We have worked with the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago to build a display that tells people about AIS and also lists things they can do to be part of the solution,” explained John Rothlisberger, aquatic ecologist and AIS specialist for the Forest Service in Milwaukee. This collaboration is part of the Forest Service’s broad public education efforts that also included working with Discovery World, a science and technology center in Milwaukee to develop a similar display.

“We also partner with Wildlife Forever, a nonprofit associated with the North American Media Group, to develop billboards and PSAs, insert snippets into popular angling shows and other efforts to get the word out to the public about these threats,” he explained. “In the Great Lakes area alone, we’ve achieved more than one billion impressions through these partnerships.” These efforts are augmented by agency support of watercraft inspection and washing stations as well.

Undetected, these invaders pose huge threats to aquatic ecosystems.

Summer – Fall 2015

11

conservation Fighting Fire With AIS-Free Water One area where the Forest Service does have more control over the spread of AIS is wildland firefighting.

While the idea of dealing with AIS in fighting forest fires may seem odd, it’s a critical issue for the agency. Cynthia Tait, a Utah-based AIS coordinator with the Forest Service, is spearheading an interagency effort to prevent the spread of AIS during wildland firefighting efforts. While this may seem like an easy challenge to solve, it’s actually pretty complicated.

First, wildland fires are just that, wild. No fire hydrants offer clean water sources for firefighters to use. Instead, they pull water from local water bodies that may harbor AIS. This means firefighters need quick access to maps that detail where AIS populations exist, so they can do their best to avoid pulling water from those sources. Tait’s team has developed GIS maps that provide this information to the folks in the field.

Second, the Forest Service moves equipment around the country to respond to fires when and where they happen, which means trucks, dip buckets and other firefighting equipment used in Florida might end up in California. In order to prevent the spread of AIS from one state to another, this equipment needs to be cleaned.

This too is no small task, as the cleaning often happens in the field, meaning protocols need to be efficient, effective and available to the firefighters working in remote terrain. Massive 500-gallon fire engines are especially hard to clean, and Tait’s team is working to develop methods that adequately decontaminate these machines with hot water as opposed to caustic pesticides.

“We’ve learned that we need to circulate 140 degree water through the tanks for at least ten minutes to achieve decontamination,” Tait explained. “We’re investigating ways to do that in the field that work for the firefighters.”

All of these tactics are being included in a guidebook Tait is developing for firefighters to use in the field.

Just like in other parts of the country, Tait also works with state agencies in Wyoming, Utah and Idaho to control AIS. These partnerships help keep National Forest lakes, rivers and streams free of AIS.

Tough Decisions, Real World Impacts Early indications suggest the Forest Service’s hard work is paying off. A Montana FWP report on watercraft inspection stations showed that 40 boats entering the state’s waterways, many of which are on National Forest lands, had AIS hitchhikers. Fortunately, there were no recorded infestations of AIS in the state during 2014, showing that the watercraft inspection stations seem to be working. But AIS mitigation efforts can have real ramifications for the millions of boaters who use National Forest waterways. John Rothlisberger, the AIS expert from Milwaukee, recounted an example on the Ottawa National Forest in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula that highlights these real-world impacts: “We have a lake that’s half in the Sylvania Wilderness and half out.

For years it was the only lake in the Wilderness that allowed motorized craft, and it was the only lake in that Wilderness Area where we detected a Eurasian watermilfoil infestation.

A rapid response allowed us to control the infestation before it spread to other lakes in the Wilderness, many of which are interconnected through streams. But the District Ranger eventually had to make the tough decision to close the boat launch to motorized boats, which are generally more prone than canoes or kayaks to harbor and introduce AIS. Many folks were disappointed, while others felt that it should have been closed to motor boats much sooner.”

Challenges like these make this work both difficult and rewarding. Closing a popular site or requiring people to stop and have their boats inspected can be frustrating, but it’s necessary. Even though they may be tiny, AIS are a real and significant threat to our public waterways. Fortunately, strong collaborative efforts around the country and innovative public education programs are proving that the challenge can be met.

While the idea of dealing with AIS in fighting forest fires may seem odd, it’s a critical issue for the agency.

Greg M. Peters Greg is the NFF’s Communication Director. When he’s not lost in a mountain of paperwork at his desk, Greg enjoys skiing, hiking, canoeing and getting home after dark. Reach him at gpeters@nationalforests.org.

12

Your National Forests

conservation Photo © National Park Service; West Virginia Division of Natural Resources; USGS

Five Invaders To Watch Out For Zebra/Quagga Mussels Zebra and Quagga mussels are some of the most notorious aquatic invasive species around. First discovered in the Great Lakes in the late 1980s, these tiny mollusks have made their way across the country and now infest the Mississippi River system, Lake Mead and Lake Powell.

Zebra mussels are native to southern Russia while Quagga mussels are native to Ukraine. They can produce up to one million eggs per year, which hatch into microscopic larvae that “swim” freely for several weeks before attaching themselves to any hard surface they can find. They cause a cascade of negative impacts to the food web because they eat phytoplankton, a critical food source for zooplankton, which is in turn eaten by many native fish and invertebrate species. The mussels clog water intake systems, foul docks and beaches, and damage commercial and recreation fisheries. Ensuring that boats are completely drained, clean and dry helps limit their spread.

Eurasian Watermilfoil Native to Europe, Asia and North Africa, Eurasion watermilfoil is a submerged aquatic plant that grows in still and slow-moving water. First introduced to North America in the 1940s, it’s now found throughout the continent. The plant spreads both through flowering and by regrowth of plant fragments, making it especially hard to control, and it’s still sold through aquarium supply stores, further frustrating control efforts. It grows in thick mats of dense vegetation that can ruin swimming, fishing, waterskiing and other water-based recreation. It also can clog water intake systems, affecting municipal and agricultural users.

New Zealand Mudsnails First detected in Idaho’s Snake River in 1987, New Zealand mudsnails are tiny freshwater mollusks that cause big problems in aquatic systems.

These invaders have spread throughout the West, infesting famous trout streams like the Madison River and other waters around Yellowstone National Park and have recently made their way to the Great Lakes and Midwestern waters. They have no natural predators and outcompete native snails that make up the diets of native fish and

birds. They can live for up to 24 hours without water, but can survive for several days on damp clothing and gear.

Their small size makes them hard to detect and easy to transport. Mudsnails collect in very high densities; in the Great Lakes they’ve appeared in colonies of 5,600 individuals per cubic meter of water. Now that’s an invasion!

Didymo, a.k.a. Rock Snot Although technically native to cold water streams in North America, the microscopic alga didymo has become a significant threat to aquatic systems in recent years.

“Rock snot” smothers stream beds with a thick, brownish-grey mat that feels more like wet cotton than algae and looks like mucus. Didymo prevents fish from nesting, limits invertebrate growth and affects food webs. Because it spreads by cell division, a single drop of infected water can cause a new infestation.

It’s most often spread through transportation of fishing gear, especially waders and felt-soled fishing boots. Many states have banned feltsoled boots for this reason. Anglers beware!

You may be unintentionally spreading this pest. If you’ve recently fished in didymo affected waters, ensure your gear is completely dry for 48 or more hours before using it in a new stream.

Asian Carp Asian carp are large, heavy bodied fish native to China and Southeast Asia. “Asian carp” is a general term referring primarily to silver, grass, black and bighead carp. The fish are found throughout the Mississippi River and its tributaries. They are thought to have escaped from commercial catfish operations in the South, where they were introduced to help clean fish ponds. Some species are known for their ability to leap up to ten feet in the air when frightened by boats and personal watercraft. This behavior, while amusing on countless YouTube videos, is dangerous for boaters who can be seriously injured by the fish, which often weigh 100 pounds or more. There is a multi-million dollar effort to prevent Asian carp from establishing in the Great Lakes where they would significantly damage the area’s $7 billion sport and commercial fisheries.

Summer – Fall 2015

13

Morning paddle on Waldo Lake on the Willamette National Forest, Oregon.

14

Your National Forests

unforgettable experiences

The Best Places to Paddle on National Forests

By Marlee Ostheimer

I

n 2013, we posted a blog called “14 Best Places to Canoe and Kayak on National Forests.” Two years later, it’s still one of our most popular blogs. We thought we should

add a few gems we missed and highlight some of the other best places to paddle on our National Forests.

1

legend

CANOE

WHITEWATER CANOE

SEA KAYAK

STANDUP PADDLEBOARD

Northern Forest Canoe Trail White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire

The Upper Ammonoosuc River section of the iconic 740-mile Northern Forest Canoe Trail traverses the northern edge of the White Mountain National Forest. Passing within view of New Hampshire’s stately Presidential Range and through several historic towns, this family-friendly route offers ample opportunities to immerse oneself in natural history. You can travel from Milan to Stark in one day, or if you want to extend the trip to two days, you can continue all the way to Groveton. There are plenty of inns, campsites and quaint riverside cabins along the way.

More info at www.northernforestcanoetrail.org

KAYAK Photo © Alex Derr / flickr.com/alex1derr

EXPEDITION STANDUP PADDLEBOARD

WHITEWATER RAFT

WHITEWATER KAYAK

WHITEWATER KAYAK & EXTENDED TRIPS

WHITEWATER RAFT & EXTENDED TRIPS

2

Waldo Lake Willamette National Forest, Oregon

One of the largest and deepest natural lakes in Oregon, Waldo Lake is nearly ten square miles of crystal clear water. With no permanent inlet for nutrients to flow into the lake, there is no plant growth, allowing for visibility up to depths of 120 feet. Surrounded on three sides by the 39,000-acre Waldo Lake Wilderness Area, Waldo Lake is renowned for scenic beauty and opportunities for solitude and primitive recreation.

Visit the Forest Service website at is.gd/ynf_001

Summer – Fall 2015

15

unforgettable experiences Photo © Alan Strakey / flickr.com/smoovey

3

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Superior National Forest, Minnesota

One of the most famous paddling areas in the country, if not the most famous, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Northern Minnesota is a rugged stretch of lonely cliffs, towering rock formations, rocky shores, sandy beaches and several thousand lakes and streams. Interspersed with islands and surrounded by the Superior National Forest, the Boundary Waters is more than one million acres and contains over 1,200 miles of canoe routes, 12 hiking trails and over 2,000 designated campsites. The Wilderness offers freedom to those who wish to pursue an experience of expansive solitude, challenge and deep immersion in nature.

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness on the Superior National Forest, Minnesota.

legend

CANOE

WHITEWATER CANOE

SEA KAYAK

STANDUP PADDLEBOARD

KAYAK

EXPEDITION STANDUP PADDLEBOARD

WHITEWATER RAFT

WHITEWATER KAYAK

WHITEWATER KAYAK & EXTENDED TRIPS

WHITEWATER RAFT & EXTENDED TRIPS

Visit the Forest Service website at is.gd/ynf_002

4

Nantahala River Gorge Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina

The Nantahala River Gorge offers an exciting, family-friendly whitewater adventure on one of North Carolina’s premier whitewater rivers.

The Nantahala is the largest of North Carolina’s four National Forests, containing over 600 miles of trails and more than 530,000 acres to explore. The Gorge offers an intermediate eight-mile run of Class I and II whitewater that ends with an optional stretch of Class III rapids through Nantahala Falls. Boaters can bring their own raft, rent one from many outfitters in the area or book a guided tour. While you’re there, check out additional activities like zipline tours, mountain biking and standup paddleboarding on Lake Fontana.

Visit the Forest Service website at is.gd/ynf_003

16

Your National Forests

unforgettable experiences Photo © Zachary Collier / Northwest Rafting Company

5

Salmon River Salmon–Challis National Forest, Idaho

The Main and Middle stems of the Salmon River are a breathtaking adventure through the largest Wilderness Area in the lower 48. A multi-day trip through the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness Area on the either of the two rivers will take you through challenging rapids and incredible scenery with plenty of opportunities to get out of the boat and explore. Natural hot springs bubble up from the banks, making for a relaxing end to a long day on the river. The Salmon River canyon is one of the deepest in the country and home to a multitude of wildlife including bear, big horn sheep, river otter, bald eagles and more. Only the lucky get to float these rivers though, a lottery permit system keeps river traffic low during the busy spring and summer months. You need to apply for your permit between December 1 and January 31 each year or book through a commercial outfitter.

Visit the Forest Service website at is.gd/ynf_004

6

Ocoee River Cherokee National Forest, Tennessee

Adrenaline junkies rejoice! Whitewater enthusiasts of all skill levels can experience the 1996 Olympic whitewater course on Tennessee’s Ocoee River. Attracting some 300,000 people each year, the adrenaline-pumping quarter-mile Olympic course is part of a ten-mile run that includes more than 30 class II-IV rapids. The dam-controlled Ocoee offers an opportunity to run some of the most exciting whitewater in the country. If you love whitewater, this is not an experience to miss!

Visit the Forest Service website at is.gd/ynf_005

7

Buffalo National River Ozark–St. Francis National Forest, Arkansas

The Buffalo River in northern Arkansas flows between two large areas managed by the somewhat fragmented 1.2 million-acre Ozark–St. Francis National Forest. Although the most popular paddling sections of the Buffalo River are managed by the Park Service, the unique geography of this run and the fact that its headwaters begin (like so many rivers) on National Forest land demanded its inclusion on this list.

The 150-mile Buffalo is one of only a handful of free flowing, or undammed, rivers in the lower 48, and the 135 miles managed by the Park Service are one of only five designated “National Rivers” in the United States. Flowing through diverse old-growth forests and limestone bluffs, this impressive journey takes you through both mellow rapids and tranquil pools. Navigating the entire river takes six to ten days, but there are many shorter trips as well.

International Rapid Rating Scale Class I Easy. Fast moving water with riffles, small waves.

Class II Novice. Straightforward rapids, wide, clear channels.

Class III Intermediate. Rapids, moderate, irregular waves.

Class IV Advanced. Intense, powerful rapids, precise boat handling.

Class V Expert. Long, obstructed, violent rapids.

Class VI Rarely attempted. Often exemplifing the extremes of difficulty, unpredictability and danger.

Visit the National Parks Service website at is.gd/ynf_006

Summer – Fall 2015

17

unforgettable experiences Photo © umnak / flickr.com

Glass Peninsula of Admiralty Island on the Tongass National Forest, Alaska.

8

Petersburg Ranger District Tongass National Forest, Alaska

Experience calving glaciers, incredible wildlife and breathtaking scenery while exploring coastal caves, inlets and beaches along the coastline of southeastern Alaska’s 17-million-acre Tongass National Forest. The Petersburg Ranger District provides an excellent guide listing numerous long trips including: Kupreanof Island, LeConte Bay Loop, Thomas Bay Loop, Duncan Canal Loop and several others. This is rugged ocean paddling combined with wilderness camping in grizzly country, so paddlers need to be prepared, self-sufficient and have well-developed paddling, map and wilderness skills.

legend

CANOE

WHITEWATER CANOE

SEA KAYAK

STANDUP PADDLEBOARD

KAYAK

EXPEDITION STANDUP PADDLEBOARD

WHITEWATER RAFT

WHITEWATER KAYAK

WHITEWATER KAYAK & EXTENDED TRIPS

WHITEWATER RAFT & EXTENDED TRIPS

Visit the Forest Service website at is.gd/ynf_007

9

Lower Klamath River Klamath National Forest, California

The Lower Klamath River in Northern California’s Klamath National Forest is the perfect combination of a serene outdoor setting and exhilarating adventure. The entire stretch is 100 miles, but with multiple put-ins, take-outs and campsites along the way, you can make this trip as long or short as time allows. The most popular run is the 23-mile stretch between Curly Jack and Dillon Creek Campgrounds. On this stretch you will encounter Class II to III rapids, lots of opportunities to hike and swim and an abundance of wildlife.

The Lower Klamath offers something for everyone and is a great opportunity to get the whole family out on the river.

Visit the Forest Service website at is.gd/ynf_008

18

Your National Forests

unforgettable experiences

10

Coldwater Lake, Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Washington

Don’t miss this once in a lifetime chance to kayak a lake formed by the blast of a volcano. The three-mile-long Coldwater Lake was created when volcanic debris from the Mount St. Helens eruption dammed Coldwater Creek. Today, the Lake’s tranquil waters belie the area’s volatile past, though the volcano’s impact and the landscape’s slow recovery can still be seen from the water. Take in the awe-inspiring beauty of a regenerating landscape from canoe or kayak. Guided tours are also available.

Whether you have the paddling chops to safely navigate the Nantahala Gorge, are lucky enough to score a permit for the Middle Salmon, or simply find your own quiet lake for a leisurely paddle, the opportunities for getting out onto our National Forests’ rivers, lakes and oceans are virtually limitless. We hope this list inspires you to get out and get wet.

In a list of ten, we’re sure to miss some favorites. Head to our Facebook page (facebook.com/NationalForestFoundation) and let us know what we missed!

Visit the Forest Service website at is.gd/ynf_009

Best Job in the Nation In the outdoor jobs world, professional raft guiding jobs are some of the most coveted careers.

Anyone who’s taken a guided float trip can’t help but be envious of the tanned, calloused guides calmly navigating rapids and sharing river stories. But like any job, there are downsides: specifically seasonal employment and few, if any, benefits.

But, for four Forest Service employees on the Middle Fork Ranger District of Idaho’s Salmon-Challis National Forest, the joys of spending summers in a raft do coincide with the benefits of a “real” career.

These “river patrols” work in pairs and spend alternating weeks on the world-famous Middle Fork of the Salmon River, meeting floaters, cleaning campsites, checking on the 30 or so outfitters who run trips on the river and ensuring that floaters are practicing Leave No Trace camping practices. No whining clients, no stressed out bosses, no cooking for ungrateful teenagers.

Funding for these positions is extremely limited. To help support the program, the river patrols shepherd a variety of biologists, archaeologists, invasive weed and fisheries experts down the river as

they conduct numerous monitoring projects. These “paying” gigs help keep the patrol program running, ensuring that floaters are safe and the river stays healthy. In August and September, they work with fisheries experts to flag nesting sites, or “redds,” of endangered Chinook salmon. By flagging the redds, the river patrols ensure that floaters don’t accidentally impact these fragile but crucial nesting sites during low-water months.

Liz Townley, the District Ranger who manages the river patrols, thinks they “have the best job in the nation.” She’s especially proud of how they interact with the public, balancing floater’s desire for solitude and freedom in a Wilderness with how to manage such a high-use, high-impact recreation corridor through the heart of the Frank Church–River of No Return Wilderness.

Sounds amazing right? Better quit your job now and sign up with a rafting company. The patrols are staffed with river veterans who’ve spent years “on the oars,” paying their dues and earning the right to float one of our county’s most amazing rivers day in and day out.

Marlee Ostheimer Marlee is the NFF's Development Associate. Her young son, Ellis, keeps her pretty busy whether he’s checking out trees, streams, rivers or dirt. Reach her at mostheimer@nationalforests.org.

Summer – Fall 2015

19

treasured landscapes Photo Š Olof Carmel / olofcarmel.com

The Tahoe National Forest From Shepherds to Ski Resorts

By Jane Braxton Little

A

Truckee River in fall.

bove tree line, the regal peaks of the Tahoe National Forest herald a landscape of towering forests, rushing streams and shimmering groves of aspens. Cirques carved by glaciers cradle alpine meadows lush with spring wildflowers. Dozens

of small streams flowing into two major river systems drain the 850,000acre forest near the northern end of the Sierra Nevada, the mountainous block of granite that tilts along the California border with Nevada. The panorama of snow-capped mountains and blue of Lake Tahoe that inspired Mark Twain have enticed Gary Snyder and other writers to delve into the area's more subtle beauty: the fresh scent of pine in an unexplored grove; the drip of snowmelt on a granite ledge.

20

  Your National Forests

treasured landscapes Photo © Jane Braxton Little

East to west, the Tahoe National Forest spans the Sierra spine from the high-desert sage and juniper of the Great Basin to the verdant orchards and cultivated fields of the Sacramento Valley. It extends from Lake Tahoe in the south to the jagged Sierra Buttes in the north. With elevations that ascend from 1,500 to 9,000 feet, the Tahoe is home to a complex set of ecosystems that host diverse and endangered species such as the willow flycatcher, the yellow-legged frog and the elusive wolverine prowling in deep isolation.

Its rich mix of mountains, lakes and historic mining towns make the Tahoe one of the most popular recreation forests in the nation. Californians from San Francisco and Sacramento consider it their backyard and are among its two million annual visitors. The area also draws national and international visitors who come for more than its scenic beauty. A wide range of topography and climate offer four seasons of recreation that include skiing and snowmobiling, biking and horseback riding, and hiking to destinations just around the corner or as distant as Canada and Mexico on the Pacific Crest Trail.

Human history on the Tahoe dates back more than a millennium to the Washoe and Paiute people, who traveled back and forth with the seasons from Lake Tahoe to the Great Basin. They likely bestowed the region’s iconic lake with their word for “big water:” Tahoe. Fur trappers in the 1820s began the flow of “westward ho!” emigrants that included the ill-fated Donner Party in 1846.

The trickle swelled to a flood after 1849 as fortune seekers poured into the Sierra in a get-rich-quick quest for gold and later silver. With strong government encouragement and funding, private railroad companies opening up the West took advantage of land grants to push across the Sierra. Along with a network of rail lines, the results include a still present checkerboard of private and federal land ownership.

As railroad construction and mining boomed, settlers began moving into the Truckee-Donner area in the early 1860s. Ranchers soon followed, bringing cattle and sheep to graze the meadows and hillsides. Among the marks left by the livestock industry are artful carvings on aspen trees made by lonesome Basque shepherds who spent months with only the company of their sheep.

Uncontrolled mining, ranching and logging brought the region under federal management. Congress created “Forest Reserves” in 1891 to halt unrestrained exploitation of natural resources, including a vast tract in the Sierra. The Tahoe National Forest was established in 1908 as one of eight National Forests along the Sierra Nevada crest.

With railroads facilitating cross-country travel, the population centers that grew up along the Truckee River became transportation hubs. As recreation grew following WWII, outdoor enthusiasts flocked to play in the Tahoe’s sun and snow. By 1960, when the Winter Olympics were held at Squaw Valley, the Tahoe National Forest was firmly established as a world-class recreation area.

Today, the Tahoe's streams and forests bear the heavy toll of a century of resource extraction and year-round recreation. The Truckee River, once home to robust populations of Lahontan cutthroat trout, is listed as impaired. The mixed-conifer forests have been subject to clear-cutting and fire suppression, leaving them overstocked and vulnerable to insect infestation and uncontrollable wildfire. When the National Forest Foundation designated the Truckee River watershed as one of its Treasured Landscapes, it launched an ambitious program designed to restore forest and water resources for the well-being of both human and natural communities. With partners that include the Forest Service, Trout Unlimited, the Truckee River Watershed Council and University of California, Berkeley, restoration work has begun on 234,000 acres within the watershed.

A Basque sheepherder carving of a wedding couple in the 1930s, near Lake Tahoe.

CORPORATE PARTNER Salt River Project is excited to be partnering with the NFF to lead the Northern Arizona Forest Fund. This innovative approach to watershed restoration will help ensure that our shared watersheds continue to provide clean, reliable water.

Summer – Fall 2015

21

treasured landscapes Goose Lake

OREGON

“ EUREKA

Its rich mix of mountains, lakes and historic mining towns make the Tahoe one of the most popular recreation forests in the nation.

Sac r

Shasta Lake

ame

Tahoe National Forest

nto River

”

Lake Tahoe SACRAMENTO

Mono Lake

Bodega Bay

S an

n ui aq Jo

SAN FRANCISCO

San Francisco Bay

d rce

Me

N

EV

AD

A

R

iv er

er

Riv

Monterey Bay

CALIFORNIA

A

R

ARIZO

P

as

Sa lin

FRESNO

NA

C

BAKERSFIELD

I

F

SAN LUIS OBISPO

I PALM SPRINGS

Co ac h

la

O

l na Ca

C

E

A

N

22

Your National Forests

el

Salton Sea

C ol

LOS ANGELES

o rado

R

C Santa Barbara Channel

MEXICO

treasured landscapes Photo © Matthew Grimm

A wetland and meadow on the Tahoe National Forest.

The largest aquatic project is on Prosser Creek just below a Bureau of Reclamation dam. The Truckee River Watershed Council is improving habitat for spawning and mature trout by placing large boulders and logs in the channel to reestablish stream and riparian habitat. The NFF and its partners are also working to restore a fen near Sagehen Creek by decommissioning a road along its lower slope. Along with restoring the fen itself, the work will allow water to “sheet” across surrounding acres, improving the hydrology of the water table.

The Sagehen Basin forest health project aims to model a new approach to forest management. Designed by a collaborative group, the plan is to transform thick homogeneous stands of even-aged timber into patches of dense clusters set amid open areas. To get natural fire back on this landscape, partners working with the University of California will eventually burn the more sparsely­ vegetated south-facing slopes. This more natural mosaic of habitat will facilitate nesting, denning and foraging for species ranging from northern goshawks and spotted owls to martens.

The NFF's five-year program is already approaching one of its goals: linking the public to its science-based projects. Most of the work will be done by local contractors, with volunteers providing much of the hands-on follow up assistance, says Joanne Roubique, Truckee District Ranger. “The Truckee River watershed is an unrecognized gem. People are thrilled to be part of projects with this level of support for something they love so much."

As the work gets underway, its promise reaches beyond the watershed where it is focused. The NFF projects that develop healthy forests and clean, abundant water in the Truckee River will serve as models for other forests and watersheds in the Sierra and beyond. The lessons of what worked on the Tahoe—and what did not— will inform stream and forest restoration wherever local communities and far-flung fans combine their passions to enhance their National Forests.

Jane Braxton Little Based in the northern Sierra Nevada, Jane writes about science and the environment for Audubon, Discover, Scientific American and other publications. Reach her at jblittle@dyerpress.com.

Summer – Fall 2015

23

unforgettable experiences Photo © Chris Ennis

Deeper, closer, faster

New creative water sports are flooding the nation's rivers

By Brianna Randall

T

he packraft swooshed across the South Fork of the Flathead's large cobbles as my husband landed his inflatable boat with a flourish. Rob

unfolded his lanky frame from the tiny craft, his fly rod in hand and a stick dripping with plump Westslope cutthroat in the other.

“Dinner is served,” he grinned.

We were in the middle of a ten-day expedition traversing the Bob Marshall Wilderness by boat and boots. Rob had just hauled in a handful of wild trout from a gin-clear pool at the confluence of the White River and the South Fork of the Flathead. Before we left, he'd debated whether to bring along his new favorite toy, a $900 Alpaca raft that weighed five pounds and packed down to the size of a one-man tent. The grin told me he was glad that he had. His new packraft allowed him to sneak off into tiny tributaries, ducking under branches and skimming over shallow riffles to fly fish or snorkel in places our regular-sized rafts couldn't access.

24

Your National Forests

Kevin Colburn pushing the limits of packrafting.

unforgetable experiences

“It's…the most exciting innovation in water sports for people that love wild, unpopulated rivers.”

Summer – Fall 2015

25

unforgettable experiences

26

Your National Forests

Photo © Courtesy of Strongwater Mtn. Surf Co.

Like many river enthusiasts, Rob's love of water Co-owners of Strongwater Mountain Surf Co. Kevin started with fishing. Casting lines across sparkling water “K.B.” Brown and Luke Rieker opened their surf shop in is still one of the most beloved past-times on America's 2008 in downtown Missoula, Montana. “When we opened, inland streams and rivers. National Forests in particular we were the only place in Missoula selling SUPs. Now you offer some of the best fishing opportunities in the country. can buy them at Costco,” says Brown.

According to the most recent Visitor Use Survey put out These two embody the do-it-yourself spirit that by the Forest Service, nearly seven percent of National is redefining how Americans play on water. They are Forest visitors indicate fishing is their primary reason pioneering custom-made surfboards specially designed for visiting. And for good reason: from the to ride river waves. Their boards are short and Columbia River in the West to the Delaware thick, with a wide tail that helps surfers River in the East, public lands churn out stay up in freshwater's mushier waves. coveted cold-water trophies like trout The duo credit the popularity of SUPs and warm-water sport fish like bass. with ushering in river surfing. But, Fortunately for those of us less interaccording to Rieker, river surfing is ested in casting a line, those same just more fun. “When you see it, it's National Forests also offer paddling hard to resist. If you see us surfing opportunities that have long been and you don't wanna do it, you're draws for canoeists, river rafters and crazy!” he laughs. kayakers, too.

“The public lands around MisAs we shoved off the next day to soula make it a prime destination continue our South Fork of the Flathead for river surfing,” says Brown. “We have trip, we spied a lone packrafter navigating a dozen awesome waves we can surf Chad Addleman river surfing the some whitewater as he headed toward year-round.” Both Rieker and Brown Pipeline wave on the Lochsa River, Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest, Idaho. the pool that provided our dinner the agree that their personal favorites are evening before. Mike Fiebig waved as we Pipeline, a wave on the Lochsa River in crossed bows. Fiebig, a long-time river adventurer, has Idaho's Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest, and Lunch served as a guide on river trips from Central America to Counter, a famous wave on the Snake River in Wyoming's Alaska and now works as the Associate Director of the Bridger-Teton National Forest. On mountain rivers from Northern Rockies office of American Rivers. He's taken the Carolinas to California, surfers are catching waves, a standup paddleboard (SUP) through stretches of the inventing new tricks and making gear to suit their needs.

Grand Canyon and often surfs waves on the Yellowstone Both river surfboards and SUPs are more inviting River. But, like my husband, packrafting is his first choice than traditional kayaking, since people are often put when he looks at his quiver of river toys. off by being strapped in, or by having to learn technical “It's hands-down the most exciting innovation in water safety moves like rolls and wet exits. Kevin Colburn, the sports for people that love wild, unpopulated rivers,” says National Stewardship Director for American Whitewater, Fiebig. “The packraft has opened up all sorts of National a river advocacy organization, says that more and more Forest lands to paddling.” people are gravitating toward river sports that are closer For those seeking ways to interact with water, fishing, to home and lower risk. rafting and kayaking have been the historic options. In the Colburn defines himself as “a lifelong river guy.” He's last decade though, these traditional river activities have explored waterways across the country on kayaks, SUPs, had to make room for a whole new fleet of water-based Bellyaks, packrafts, and while river snorkeling and river sports. Some of them like river snorkeling have only a boarding. “What the emerging river sports have in comtrickle of followers, while others like packrafting and padmon is that they create the opportunity to have original dleboarding are inundating the nation's lakes and rivers. experiences on the same landscapes people have experiPaddleboarding is the fastest growing watersport in enced before. To me, that's the definition of adventure— the country. From expedition-style multi-day trips to surfseeing places in new ways.” ing big ocean or river waves to leisurely skims across Colburn personally loves the rush of rapids best, and a pond, SUPs are easy to use, provide great exercise and points out that the best whitewater is on public lands give a whole new perspective on the water. not only because the famous runs boast good waves, but because they also integrate beautiful scenery and good water quality.

unforgettable experiences Photo © Courtesy of Adam Masters / Bellyak, Inc.

Bellyaking is for the dogs…and their human counterparts.

If you're looking for a face-first perspective on the river instead of the bird’s-eye view from a SUP, riverboarding or Bellyaking might be the tool for you. Riverboards are extra-buoyant, over-sized boogie boards that allow you to hurtle through rapids like a superhero (but remember that all good superheros wear helmets). Taking riverboarding to another level, Adam Masters founded Bellyak, Inc. in North Carolina in 2010.

Masters grew up as a kayaker, but continually looked for new ways to experience rivers. For him, that meant getting closer to the water and ditching the paddle. Like Reiker and Brown, Masters eventually started making his own gear to suit his needs. His first creation was made out of a cut-up kayak, foam and duct tape in his backyard. Since then, he's refined and patented the Bellyak, an eight-foot-long “belly-on-top” kayak that's stouter than a surfboard and shapelier than a SUP. “People scratch their heads when they see it, but once they're on it's really comfortable and intuitive,” says Masters.

Again, like packrafting or SUPing, the Bellyak eliminates the fear of being trapped and doesn't require learning a new skillset. “It's just like swimming, but with a kayak beneath you.” In fact, Masters uses the Bellyak in

therapeutic settings for people with disabilities, since you only need to use your arms. That doesn't mean Bellyaks can't tackle more technical water, though. Masters' favorite river runs are Class III rapids, like those on the Ocoee River in the Cherokee National Forest or the French Broad River in the Pisgah National Forest.

Whether traversing untamed wilderness creeks or cruising around a placid forest lake, bombing down river waves or paddling little riffles, the expanding world of creative river sports offers more opportunities than ever before to experience the myriad waterways that make our country special.

Kevin Colburn, the lifelong river guy, sums it up best: “Water travel and outdoor recreation are constantly evolving. The river remains the alluring constant, and we seek an ever deeper knowledge of it through whatever means we can dream up.”

With 119 Wild and Scenic Rivers, more than 1,200 boating sites and thousands of lakes, America’s National Forests provide enough space for that evolution to continue. Now is the perfect time to see what you can dream up during your next adventure on the water, whether it involves a paddle, a surfboard or simply a swimsuit and a smile.

Brianna Randall Brianna is a writer and communications specialist based in Missoula, Montana. Her favorite writing topics involve big rivers, steep mountains and vast oceans, which she explores as often as possible. Reach her at brianna.randall@gmail.com.

Summer – Fall 2015

27

voices from the forest

Water, Gravity and an Old Oak Tree Interview and photos by Ray A. Foote

C

oleman Burke is a lifelong conservationist, investor, amateur paleontologist, lawyer, ocean explorer and more. The Founder and Managing

Partner of Waterfront Properties in New York, Mr. Burke serves on the NFF Board of Directors.

RF: Are forests essential?

CB: They are. My first thought is the world is a filter system: atmosphere, oceans, land. And it works. The way it gets polluted, just like any filter system, is when junk gets in it. Starting in the Cretaceous period, we’ve had plants that begat forests. Those forests, by cleaning the water and air, promoted life.

Importantly, the forests are what keep the water in the ground. You can see the opposite of this in the Badlands where there are no forests, and you just get erosion.

RF: Are there threats to the relevance of our National Forests in contemporary society?

CB: The threats are very ably described in [Richard Louv’s book] Last Child in the Woods. It’s clear that through history, we’ve always been in the forest; we come from the forest. But now, we’re into smart phones. And cities have always been a threat to the forest because there’s a certain “action” in the cities that people like.

28

Your National Forests

RF: Your life has been framed by water: Navy service; sailing; NY Harbors restoration; ocean exploration; even your company’s name (Waterfront Properties). Is this all a coincidence?

CB: No! I suddenly realized that having spent three years plus on sea duty that it’s very exciting to be at sea where you can’t see land. The boating experience really gets fun when you’re out of sight of land and you’re going from point A to point B. Of course, nowadays with GPS, it’s easy. In the old days, it was a thoroughly exciting situation to navigate open water.

RF: Water, hydrology and watersheds get technical quickly. How can we help citizens get their arms around this subject and begin to take ownership?

CB: It’s not a technical question at all. It’s gravity. Water seeks its own level, and it goes downhill.

Watersheds are a product of gravity.

And, the enjoyment of water is immense: winter activities on frozen water, watching water in the form of ice chunk off of glaciers. It’s very exciting to see miles of flowing water in solid form. You don’t need a lot of technical data to find out how much fun it is to go into a cold lake on a hot summer day!

RF: The Eastern U.S. and Western U.S. face very different types of water challenges.

CB: It’s no secret that the East has the water, and the West doesn’t.

That’s all predicated on the atmosphere and the mountains. The water comes in from the Pacific, hits the mountains, dumps, and then you have the Plains, which are dry.

Of course, we have the East Coast where there are many sources of water. That is where the population is, because there IS water.

voices from the forest Photos © Ray A. Foote

RF: You and your wife Susan just made the largest single private contribution to the NFF for its endowment. Why? CB: It’s simple. Every organization in charge of huge projects—and the NFF is one—needs permanent capital. It’s not only going to take support from people for their specific interests like forests or grasslands, but also some independent capital to give the organization stability—to get it through tough times. In my company, we always tell the bankers we follow the Charles Darwin law of real estate: if you can get through the drought, you can get through anything. It’s the same for a nonprofit organization.

RF: It’s critical that the NFF work effectively with both private and public sides. What trends or opportunities do you see that will bear on our effectiveness in this regard?

CB: Never underestimate the muscle and brainpower of individuals, though [the federal government] has done some wonderful work, starting with Teddy Roosevelt and Gifford Pinchot. Pinchot’s family cut down the trees to make wallpaper that they sold in cities. But Pinchot had a great friendship with Teddy Roosevelt, and they formed what is now the Forest Service.

But it’s time for individuals to step up to the plate.

RF: What are some of your favorite outdoor memories or places?

CB: My favorite moments have always been in a forest, whether it’s in Alaska, canoeing the Delaware River with our children or various Hudson River adventures. And 48 years of fishing in and around Jackson, Wyoming has been great. National Forests are a phenomenal gift to the nation.

RF: You’ve written a book about Charles Darwin. If he were sitting here with us today, would he have something to say about forests?

CB: Absolutely! He probably would wax eloquently about every living thing in the forest. He would have known plant and animal names; he was an incredible observer. He would not be horrified by the extinction of species; he would point out that it is the understanding of life cycles and the way species evolve that is so important, and the randomness of mutations. He would also point out that you and I wouldn’t be talking in this interview if there hadn’t been extinction!

RF: The economic value of the water from our National Forest System is estimated at $3.7 billion annually. Do fire, invasive species, inadequate federal investment and so forth put this annual value in serious jeopardy?

CB: Yes. I think companies with access to water should have that on their balance sheet. They put land on their balance sheets, why don’t they put water? The number of gallons it takes just to keep a cow going is incredible.

One of the greatest things about this country is that we have water; we have clean water, and we’re concentrating on ways to keep this water clean.

RF: What else would you like readers to know about the National Forests or the NFF? CB: I believe it is very important for everyone to get out of their routine and to go into the forest. You come back having your soul refreshed. I live on a trout stream about forty miles north of New York City. We have an oak tree that predates Columbus. When I have what I consider to be a big problem, I walk the quarter mile down a dirt road to that spot, and I sit and talk to that tree! It’s been living through all kind of pestilence and environments, so it’s seen all the problems. Suddenly my problems become minor.

Ray A. Foote Ray is the NFF’s Executive Vice President. He lives in Fairfax, VA and spends his free time playing jazz and blues piano and pursuing outdoor photography. Reach him at rfoote@nationalforests.org

Summer – Fall 2015

29

forest news

Small, Electric E-bikes: A New Breed of Motorized Recreation

T

here’s a new technology making mountain bikers and forest managers anxious—e-bikes. For decades, small electric motors have been used on street bikes, providing pedaling assistance when climbing hills.

New battery innovations have reduced motor weights, allowing the

technology to expand to mountain bikes. Numerous European and some American bike manufacturers have recently begun offering e-mountain bikes for sale in the U.S., looking to prop up flagging sales and diversify their customer base. And this has both mountain biking advocates and forest managers worried.

At issue is whether the e-mountain bikes will be treated like motorized vehicles or like human-powered vehicles. The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) released a Motorized/Nonmotorized Policy Statement in 2011 that helps make the distinction: Electric bicycles are a welcome addition to the cycling community. They allow for carrying heavy loads and offer assistance to those who could not otherwise experience much of the fun of cycling and add a de minimis amount of additional impact. However, the use of a motor whether internal combustion or electric would require changing the classification to a motorized use. IMBA would support the use of e-bikes anywhere that we could also support other motorized uses.

Other biking magazines and websites have waded into the debate, and comment streams heatedly debate the pros and cons. For some, particularly older Americans for whom pedaling up a steep mountain is too difficult, e-mountain bikes open up a new and fun sport. To others, they threaten the gains the mountain biking community has made in recent years to earn recognition as a quiet,

30

Your National Forests

non-motorized sport appropriate for singletrack trails in forests, parks and other areas that prohibit motors.

The U.S. Forest Service is managing the use of e-bikes on the National Forests System as a motorized vehicle under the Travel Management Rule, according to Jonathan Stephens, Program Manager, Trails and Congressional Designated Areas.

That means that e-bike proponents riding on National Forests are restricted to roads and trails open to motorized vehicles. Every National Forest with designations for motorized use provides Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUM) on their websites that detail where motorized vehicles can go, so if you’re interested in trying out an e-bike, look up a MVUM and head to your local forest. Just be sure you’re riding on a road or trail that’s open to motorized vehicles!

CORPORATE PARTNER Since 2012, Lands’ End has been proud to partner with the NFF to plant trees across our National Forests. In 2015, Lands’ End is thrilled to be planting our one millionth tree through this partnership.

forest news Photo © Ray A. Foote

Using Forest “Residue” to Make a Profit

I

n February, the NFF celebrated the winners of the 2014 Barrett Foundation Business Concept Challenge. First place winner, Charborn, received the $75,000 first prize from the Challenge sponsor and NFF Board Chair, Craig R. Barrett, at Forest Service headquarters.

Charborn’s winning proposal details the young company’s plans to grow a commercial agricultural market for “biochar,” a soil additive produced from low-value woody biomass remaining after forest restoration projects.

Niles Brinton, founder and CEO explains, “We will put this award to good use, building a business and an industry that connects and sustains our forests and our farmland, while boosting our economy and our environmental quality,” he said during his acceptance speech. “It is our goal at Charborn to create valuable, carbon-sequestering soil amendments out of biomass from overcrowded forests. By unlocking a large agricultural demand to go with this extraordinary supply, the power of the market can be carefully used to clean up our forests!”

The first runner-up team, “Biomass to Biomethanol Through Forest Remediation,” will use the $25,000 runner-up prize to grow its business converting low-value woody biomass from forest thinning and lumber mill operations into methanol and liquid carbon dioxide.

Methanol is a commodity product utilized in many industrial applications and various food products, and carbon dioxide is used for carbonation and other purposes. This innovative approach uses a proprietary mobile plant that can be brought to where the forest residue is located, reducing the traditionally cost-prohibitive transportation costs associated with utilizing this type of forest “waste.”

“Both teams demonstrate a unique approach to removing a major barrier preventing more restoration work on our National Forests,” said Leslie Weldon, Deputy Chief of the National Forest System. “By creating a market for these byproducts of forest restoration, the winning teams help create new opportunities for the Forest Service to achieve healthier forests and stimulate local economies. These are exactly the types of ideas we need to be nurturing across the country,” she continued.

USDA Under Secretary for Natural Resources and the Environment, Robert Bonnie, agreed: “Building markets for small diameter trees can substantially boost our ability to restore National Forests so that they are more resilient to wildfire and a variety of threats. The Barrett Challenge winners demonstrate that with creative and innovative ideas, there are business opportunities that benefit both the environment and rural economies."

The 2015 Barrett Foundation Business Concept Challenge opened in April 2015. “We’re excited to see what new business ideas are generated through this year’s competition,” said Adam Liljeblad, the NFF’s Conservation Awards Director. “This is an exciting competition that is bridging forest restoration and market-based innovation. There are a lot of great ideas out there that need some support, and the Barrett Foundation Business Concept Challenge provides that. We are deeply appreciative of Dr. Barrett’s continued support for this unique program.”

CORPORATE PARTNER Coca-Cola’s water sustainability efforts are making a real difference for our public lands.

Since 2012, our efforts have replenished approximately 1 billion liters of water to our National Forests.

2014 Barrett Foundation Challenge winners Niles Brinton and Debbie Pierce with Bill Possiel, Craig Barrett and Leslie Weldon.

Summer – Fall 2015

31

where in the woods Photo © USDA Forest Service

Answer from page 3: Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky

Lick Creek Falls just off the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail.

This National Forest is named for a famed frontiersman of the 1700s.

P

resident Franklin D. Roosevelt established the Cumberland National Forest in 1937, which was renamed the Daniel Boone National Forest in 1966. Running nearly the height of Kentucky, the Forest’s 708,000 acres includes many popular recreation areas

such as Cave Run Lake, the Red River Gorge and the Natural Arch Scenic Area. If you’re up for a longer adventure, explore the Sheltowee Trace Trail, a 319-mile National Recreational Trail that runs the length of the Forest. More than 100 natural arches lure hikers deep into the Forest, and cavers flock from around the country to explore one of the world’s largest concentrations of caves. Steeped in history and culture and situated in some of the most remote and rugged country in the Appalachians, the Daniel Boone National Forest offers visitors a chance to walk in the footsteps of one of our nation’s most legendary figures.

Learn more at www.fs.usda.gov/dbnf

32

Your National Forests

forest perspectives Photo © Basque Library, University of Nevada Reno

Basque Bread Ovens

by John Frandsen

Sheepherder Bread Recipe

3 cups very hot tap water 1/2 cup (1/4 lb.) butter or margarine 1/2 cup sugar 2 1/2 tsp. salt 2 packages active dry yeast 9 1/2 cups all-purpose flour Salad oil

T

he hand-built traditional Basque outdoor oven shown in this early 1970s photo marks the end of an era.

Experienced Basque herders from

Spain and France immigrated to the western United States in search of better opportunity, and these ovens were very common in sheep camps across the National Forests from the early 1900s until the 1960s.

By the 1940s, nearly every sheep camp on the Tahoe National Forest had a hand-built traditional Basque outdoor oven on-site. Every five days, the camp tender baked as many as 10 loaves of bread made from 50-pound sacks of flour.

Making the bread required both baking skills and considerable strength for kneading the large loaves of dough.

The days of summer sheep camps and baking ovens are over. Today food is bought at local stores and delivered to herders.

In a large bowl, combine hot water, butter, sugar and salt. Stir until butter is melted; let cool to about 110 degrees. Stir in yeast; cover and set in a warm place until bubbly, about 15 minutes. Beat in about 5 cups flour to make a thick batter.

Stir in about 3 1/2 cups more flour to make a stiff dough. Scrape dough onto a floured board. Knead until smooth and satiny—10 to 20 minutes—adding as little flour as possible to prevent sticking. Place dough in a greased bowl; turn over to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 1/2 hours.

Punch dough down and knead briefly on a floured board to release air. Shape into a smooth ball. With a circle of foil, cover the inside bottom of a 5-quart Dutch oven. Grease foil, inside of Dutch oven, and lid with oil. Place dough in Dutch oven and cover with lid. Let rise in a warm place until dough pushes up lid by about 1/2 inch, about 1 hour. Watch closely. Bake, covered with a lid, in a 375-degree F oven for 12 minutes.

Remove lid and continue to bake until loaf is golden brown, 30 to 35 minutes or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.

Remove bread from oven and turn onto a rack to cool. You will need a helper.

Peel off foil and turn loaf upright. Makes one very large loaf.

From the Sheepcamp to the Kitchen, Volume II kcwoolgrowersauxiliary.com/The_Bo-Peeps_Shop.html

Help Protect America’s Backyard

Join the hundreds of thousands of Americans who help care for our National Forests. Find out where to play, stay up-to-date on conservation news and receive insider tips.

nationalforests.org