Appendix Five 

Considering Cumulative Impacts

Introduction

The Council on Environmental Quality’s regulations for implementing the National Environmental Policy Act defines cumulative effects as:

…the impact on the environment which results from the incremental impact of the action when added to other past, present and reasonably foreseeable future actions regardless of what agency (Federal or non-federal) or person undertakes such actions. (40 CFR § 1508.7)

The following is a scenario of projects that may have potential cumulative impact when considered along with actions called for in the Draft Yosemite Fire Management Plan/EIS. The purpose of this scenario is to evaluate (1) whether the resources, ecosystems, and human communities have already been affected by past or present activities, and (2) whether other agencies or the public have plans that may affect resources in the future.

The Affected Region

This list of projects was developed through an iterative process with individuals, groups, and agency officials and attempts to include major projects within the affected environment relative to each impact topic. The region of evaluation was established based upon an observation of natural boundaries, the recognition of potential ecological relationships to Yosemite National Park, and with a general understanding of the common issues to be addressed in the impact analysis. The descriptions of the projects listed below were provided by those contacted either for this or other recent planning actions.

The incremental impacts of the Yosemite Fire Management Plan were assessed, for most topics, considering the past, present and reasonably foreseeable future fire and/or fuel management projects or programs, and by considering new development projects that would affect the amount of wildland/urban interface in and near Yosemite National Park.

The region of analysis included surrounding counties and federal lands as follows:

¨       Mariposa County Fire Department

¨       U.S. Forest Service – Inyo National Forest, Bishop, CA

¨       U.S. Forest Service – Stanislaus National Forest, Sonora and Groveland, CA

¨       U.S. Forest Service – Sierra National Forest, Clovis, CA

¨       U.S. Forest Service – Toiyabe National Forest, Carson City, NV

¨       U.S. Bureau of Land Management – Folsom Field Office, Folsom, CA

¨       County’s with jurisdiction over activities on and near the park boundaries, which would potentially represent additions to wildland/urban interface. For this category of projects, staff reviewed the list of projects compiled while completing the Yosemite Valley Plan.

National Park Service planners evaluated each project listed from the perspective of the individual characteristics of each impact topic. Analysis of potential cumulative impacts was specific to those projects that would potentially have a compounding effect when considered with the actions of each alternative.

Cumulative Impact Scenario

Fire and Fuels Management and Ecosystem Restoration

The U.S. Forest Service has a large number of projects that will take place in the Central Sierra. For example, Stanislaus National Forest has provided the National Park service with a list of 90 projects that they plan to conduct over the next ten years; at least six of these projects would occur in the Groveland District. Sierra National Forest has provided a list of 39 projects for the next five years. The other forests are planning similar amounts of activity as they too work on responding to wildland/urban interface initiatives and meeting other fire, fuels and land management objectives. The projects listed below are representative of the types of recently completed and future projects on land managed by the U.S. Forest Service and by the National Park Service in Yosemite National Park.

Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Stanislaus National Forest

Project Name: A-Rock Reforestation

Description: This project will occur within Mariposa County at T2S, R19-20E and T3S, R19- 20E. The Forest Service will reforest 5,000 acres within the A-Rock Fire. Reforestation activities may include burning, mechanical, and ground and serial application of herbicides. The decision notice and FONSI were signed in March 1999. 

Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Stanislaus National Forest

Project Name: Aspen Fuels Reduction (G020003)

Description: The project is located in Tuolumne County at the Evergreen and Aspen Valley Road junction; T1S, R19E, Sec 26 & 35. This project proposes manual and mechanical removal of under-story trees to allow 500 acres of under-burning with prescribed fire to improve spotted owl habitat and provide protection to owl habitat and general forest from stand replacing wildfire. A portion of a Spotted Owl Protected Activity Center (PAC) is included within the treatment area.

Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Stanislaus National Forest

Project Name: Fire Management Action Plan for Wilderness

Description: This is a forest-wide action to incorporate the 2001 Federal Fire Policy that involves changes in terminology, funding sources, and management of wildland fires. A site-specific environmental analysis is in progress. The fire policy for wilderness allows naturally ignited fires to burn across shared boundaries (between U.S. Forest Service and National Park  Service, for example) as long as the fire stays within certain prescribed conditions. As the fire burns, it is monitored and evaluated to ensure that it stays within agreed upon conditions.

Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Stanislaus National Forest (Groveland Ranger District)

Project Name: Orange Crush Fuels Program

Description: This project will occur within Mariposa County at T1S, R19E, Sec. 27, 28, 29, 32, 33 & 34. This project proposes to add 290 acres of prescribed burning of natural fuels outside the timber sale area for the Orange Crush Timber Sale (Crush Multi-Product Environmental Assessment-GO99212) and modify the original prescribed burning prescriptions. The total area to be treated with prescribed fire would be 1,018 acres.

Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Stanislaus National Forest

Project Name: Rogge-Ackerson Fire Reforestation

Description: The U.S. Forest Service will reforest 4,500 acres affected by the Rogge-Ackerson fires. Reforestation activities may include burning, slash poling, deep tilling, shredding, and application of herbicides. The decision notice and FONSI was signed in March 1999.

Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region (PSW)

Project Name: Sierra Nevada Forest Plan Amendment

Description: The framework includes the Sequoia, Sierra, Stanislaus, Eldorado, Inyo, Tahoe, Plumas, Lassen, and Modoc National Forests and the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit. In addition, Region 5 of the National Park Service is working with personnel from the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest in Region 4 to ensure coordination and compatibility of management across administrative boundaries. The record of decision of decision was issued in January 2001. The effort is focused on five problem areas: old forest ecosystems; riparian, aquatic, and meadow ecosystems; fire and fuels; the spread of noxious weeds; and lower west-side hardwood forests.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan

Description: In 1999 and 2000, the National Park Service developed a comprehensive management plan for sections of the Merced Wild and Scenic River that it administers. The purpose of the Merced River Plan would be to protect and enhance the river’s Outstandingly Remarkable Values for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations.

The final plan and environmental impact statement was released to the public in July 2000; the planning process was completed in August 2000, with the signing of the Record of Decision. Included in the plan are descriptions of the boundaries, the official classification of river segments, and a description of the Outstandingly Remarkable Values associated with the Merced River. The Merced River Plan’s land-use zoning prescriptions have served as a guide to protect river values during the Yosemite Valley Plan process, and have thereby directed the type of potential development and potential levels of use allowed within the river corridor in Yosemite Valley, Wawona, and El Portal.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Protection of the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias

Description: This project proposes to protect the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoia trees by mitigating impacts caused by human activities. Work will include construction of a quarter-mile of boardwalks in areas where soils have been compacted and sequoia roots have been damaged; restoration of natural drainage patterns by re-routing a quarter-mile of trails to more appropriate sites; control of invasive non-native plant species; and evaluation of the preservation efforts through a monitoring program. This project is identified as priority 9 in the approved Resource Management Plan (Project Statement number YOSE-N-305.000).

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Mariposa Grove Roadway Improvement and Giant Sequoia Restoration

Description: The National Park Service is considering alternatives for restoring giant sequoia habitat in the Lower Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias in Yosemite National Park by relocating the existing parking to the South Entrance area. It is expected that water drainage improvements will be made to the Mariposa Grove Road and that the existing water supply line would then be relocated into the road corridor. At the South Entrance area, the roadway would have minor realignments to address roadway safety problems, requiring the relocation of the park’s South Entrance Station.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Wilderness Management Plan Update

Description: The National Park Service is updating the 1989 Yosemite National Park Wilderness Management Plan. The objective of updating the plan is to provide guidance to park operations for the successful management of Yosemite’s designated Wilderness, which comprises over 95% of the park. The plan will address land management issues within the wilderness including visitor use, vegetation associations, air resources, noise issues, watersheds, soils, cultural landscapes, and other natural, cultural, and social resource variables. The plan update would also address the use of the five High Sierra Camps in Yosemite National Park.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Merced River at Eagle Creek—Ecological Restoration

Description: The National Park Service proposes to mitigate human-caused impacts to the riverbank and floodplain at the confluence of Eagle Creek and the Merced River in Yosemite Valley. Actions proposed in the project include: removal of an undetermined amount of abandoned park infrastructure including a sewer line and manhole; revegetation of the damaged riverbank using brush-layering, seeding, and mulching techniques; construction of a temporary fence to guide visitor activities to resilient areas; and elimination of a road shoulder used for parking.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Tuolumne Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan 

Description: In 1984, the Tuolumne River was designated a Wild and Scenic River. The Wild and Scenic Rivers Act requires that managing agencies develop a comprehensive management plan for Wild and Scenic Rivers that flow in their jurisdiction. The draft planning objectives of this document include the following:

¨        Review and finalize classifications and boundaries and establish Outstandingly Remarkable Values for the Tuolumne Wild and Scenic River

¨       Delineate management zones and develop zoning prescriptions

¨       Address user capacity

Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service

Project Name: Granite Project ­—Watershed Protection and Enhancement (G049905)

Description: The project is located in Tuolumne County at T1N, T2N, R18, 19E. The watershed protection and enhancement is project proposed for 12,000 acres in the Reed, Jawbone, and Granite Creek Watersheds.

Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Inyo and Sierra National Forest

Project Name: Revised Draft Environmental Impact Statement—Management Direction for the Ansel Adams, John Muir, and Dinkey Lakes Wildernesses

Description: The U.S. Forest Service is preparing a Forest Plan amendment for wilderness direction and land and resource management plans for three designated wilderness areas. The original planning began in 1991 and a draft EIS was released in 1997, followed by a one-year comment period. The U.S. Forest Service received over 2,000 comments. A revised draft was released to the public on August 23, 2000. The biggest issues leading to a revised draft were the lack of sufficient data to support the decisions made by the document and concerning commercial  uses in the wilderness areas. The document will focus on three main areas:

¨       Visitor use

¨       Commercial services management

¨       Recreational pack stock management

One of the issues related to commercial use involves commercial outfitters who begin their trips in these wilderness areas and then move into Yosemite National Park. Outfitter operations that travel to Yosemite Valley could be affected by changes in wilderness operations.

Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service, Stanislaus National Forest (Summit Ranger District)

Project Name: Pinecrest Basin Forest Plan Amendment

Description: U.S. Forest Service is evaluating how to manage the current recreational use that is occurring along the Highway 108 corridor (north of the park), particularly in the Pinecrest Lake area. There are 300 cabin permits issued in the lake area in addition to numerous campgrounds. The recreational use is excessive and methods to manage people are being explored. This project is currently in the early planning phase.

Agency Name: U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management

Project Name: South Fork and Merced Wild and Scenic River Implementation Plan

Description: The U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management developed a joint South Fork and Merced Wild and Scenic River Implementation Plan in 1991 for the segments of the main stem and South Fork of the Merced River that are under the jurisdiction of these agencies. The segments include a 15-mile portion of the main stem extending from the El Portal Administrative Site to a point 300 feet upstream of the confluence with Bear Creek; a 21-mile segment of the South Fork that flows from the park boundary to the confluence of the Merced River; and a 3-mile segment of the South Fork just upstream of Wawona, where the National Park Service has jurisdiction over the north side of the river and the U.S. Forest Service has jurisdiction over the south side. The plan calls for the long-term protection of natural and cultural resources and the management of the area for the use and enjoyment of visitors, such that the resource would be unimpaired for future use and enjoyment as a natural setting.

Projects that Will Affect the Wildland/Urban Interface

Some projects would affect the wildland/urban interface in and near Yosemite. They might affect the amount and/or character of wildland/urban interface, the way wildland/urban interface work would be accomplished, and/or the amount of wildland/urban interface work that would be needed. These include:

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Wawona Town Planning Area Specific Plan Update

Description: This project is intended to update the 1987 Wawona Town Plan. The current planning objectives include amendment to and/or revision of Wawona Town Zoning Ordinances to address current nonconforming uses, make the plan more reflective of other existing development, provide for minimal community growth, and seek to establish a formal process for National Park Service involvement in town planning.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Yosemite West Re-zoning for 55 acres

Description: This project would call for the re-zoning of a 55 acre parcel in the Yosemite West area to allow for the development of: employee housing, visitor parking, National Park Service and concessioner operating facilities, regional commercial and office service facilities, and a hotel complex.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Yosemite West, Re-zone—Transient Rental Overlay Zone Amendment

Description: The goal of this project is to provide a mixed-use development in Yosemite West that would complement the existing residential neighborhood and minimize work/home commute patterns inside the park for some employees.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Yosemite West, Specific Plan

Description: The objectives of this plan will be to resolve current land-use conflicts in Yosemite West by defining land-use standards and zoning criteria. The Yosemite West Community Advisory Committee is currently working with Mariposa County to identify other related goals and objectives of the proposed specific plan.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Yosemite West—Thirty-One Acre Bed and Breakfast

Description: This project would be located on thirty-one acres of land located adjacent to and immediately west of the current Yosemite West Subdivision. Access to the site would require travelling over two segments of roadway located within Yosemite National Park. The complex would need to comply with Mariposa County zoning ordinances and State of California waste water treatment regulations.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Yosemite West—Wastewater Improvement Projects

Description:  The community of Yosemite West has received a Cease and Desist Order from the State of California, Regional Water Control Board. This order has required the Yosemite West Community to improve its wastewater treatment facilities by the fall of 2001. Wastewater treatment facilities in Yosemite West are currently undersized and cannot adequately treat the volume of sewage received. Mariposa County has also issued a moratorium on building in Yosemite West until the wastewater treatment facilities are improved.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Hazel Green Ranch

Description: Hazel Green Ranch is a privately owned piece of land abutting the western boundary of the park. The owner of Hazel Green Ranch has proposed to develop an eco-tourism project including approximately 250 guest rooms as single, double, and quad hard-sided cabins as well as 50 summer tent cabins. Food service, merchandise sales, and a University of California research station are also under consideration. Meadow preservation would be a focus for the property. Circulation and access in the resort area would be designed to emphasize a pedestrian environment with raised walkway providing much of the circulation. Facilities and activities would be provided for year-round recreation. Parking would be provided along the perimeter of the resort, adjacent to the area proposed for use as a transit center, parking area, and visitor contact facility. Because of the potential development of a 200-meter public access road across park lands to a transit center, parking area, and visitor contact station located on Hazel Green Ranch, the National Park Service is concerned about the potential for uncontrolled growth on this property and along the park boundary. To remedy these concerns, the landowner has agreed to put a deed restriction on the Hazel Green property, limiting development to 300 lodging units should the road, parking, and transit elements of the project move forward. The county is concerned about having adequate fire protection access.

Agency Name: Tuolumne County

Project Name: Evergreen Lodge Expansion

Description: The Evergreen Lodge is located on Evergreen Road just south of Camp Mather, approximately 7.5 miles from Highway 120. Expansion plans are being considered to increase the size of the Lodge from 21 guest units to 109 guest units with associated amenities. It is anticipated that construction will not be completed until 2001 or 2002.

Agency Name: Tuolumne County, Yosemite National Park, Stanislaus National Forest, Federal State Route (Highway) Administration, City and County of San Francisco, National Park Service, California State Department of Transportation.

Project Name: Evergreen Road Improvement

Description: Discussions have been held regarding the improvement of Evergreen Road through  the Forest Highway program. Evergreen Road provides access to Camp Mather and the Hetch Hetchy area from Highway 120 near the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station to Yosemite National Park. The project would improve Evergreen Road and possibly reroute it east of Camp Mather to Hetch Hetchy Road. No action has been taken on this project since discussions were held in October of 1998 and the project appears to be on hold.

Agency Name: Tuolumne County

Project Name: Rush Creek Guest Lodging and Conference Facilities

Description: Plans are being reviewed for approximately 144 guest units and conference facilities on approximately 18 acres near the intersection of Hardin Flat Road and Highway 120, approximately one mile west of the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station. The Rush Creek Lodge currently occupies the site. Construction is expected to be completed in 2001 or 2002.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Yosemite Valley Plan

Description: The National Park Service Pacific West Regional Director signed the Record of Decision for the Final Yosemite Valley Plan and Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement on December 29, 2000. The purpose of the Yosemite Valley Plan is to present a comprehensive management plan for Yosemite Valley—from Happy Isles at the east end of the Valley to the intersection of the El Portal and Big Oak Flat Roads at the west end. It also presents actions in adjacent areas of the park and the El Portal Administrative Site that directly relate to actions proposed in Yosemite Valley. The specific purposes of the Yosemite Valley Plan within Yosemite Valley are to:

¨       Restore, protect, and enhance the resources of Yosemite Valley.

¨       Provide opportunities for high-quality, resource-based visitor experiences.

¨       Reduce traffic congestion.

¨       Provide effective park operations, including employee housing, to meet the mission of the National Park Service.

Yosemite Valley Plan actions will reduce fragmentation between the highly valued natural resource areas from Clark’s Bridge downstream to Swinging Bridge. Areas in the eastern portion of Yosemite Valley that have been degraded or fragmented (such as the Merced River and its tributaries, wetlands, meadows, and California black oak woodlands) will be restored to one large and dynamic river-governed ecosystem. There will be minimal new development west of the Yosemite Lodge area.

Parking for 550 day-visitors’ vehicles will be consolidated in the Yosemite Village area and (in peak season) in three out-of-Valley areas (El Portal, Badger Pass, and Hazel Green or Foresta). Shuttle buses will transport visitors to locations throughout Yosemite Valley and also between the Valley and out-of-Valley parking areas. A new visitor center and transit center will be located in Yosemite Village adjacent to day-visitor parking. Actions in this alternative will result in a major reduction of vehicular congestion in the eastern portion of Yosemite Valley during summer months.

There will be more campsites and fewer lodging units than there are today. The area of the former Upper River and Lower River Campgrounds will be restored to a mosaic of meadow, riparian, and California black oak woodland communities. The “River Protection Overlay,” prescribed in the Merced River Plan, will be implemented in Yosemite Valley and the El Portal Administrative Site. Southside Drive will be converted to two-way traffic from El Capitan crossover to Curry Village, and Northside Drive will be closed to motor vehicles from El Capitan crossover to Yosemite Lodge and converted to a multi-use (bicycle and pedestrian) paved trail.

Following is a list of many of the actions that will occur under the Yosemite Valley Plan in relation to existing conditions (see Volume IA, page 2-47, of the Final Yosemite Valley Plan/SEIS for a complete discussion of actions):

Facilities and services that will be removed under the Yosemite Valley Plan include: roads through Stoneman Meadow and the southern portion of Ahwahnee Meadow (including the road through the former Upper River and Lower River Campgrounds); North Pines Campground; historic Sugar Pine Bridge (to restore the hydrologic system of the Merced River); other historic structures including the concessioner stable, Concession Headquarters, Village Garage, Cascades Diversion Dam, and five Cascades houses; the abandoned wastewater treatment plant in El Portal (from a sensitive cultural resource area); most parking (including at Lower Yosemite Fall) in east Valley, other than at lodging, campgrounds, and the Yosemite Village area; five motel buildings from Yosemite Lodge; and commercial trail rides in Yosemite Valley.

Facilities to be constructed under the Yosemite Valley Plan include: a day-visitor parking area for 550 vehicles at Yosemite Village; a visitor center and transit center near the day-visitor parking area at Yosemite Village; a new shuttle stop, restroom, enlarged viewing area near the base of Yosemite Falls, interpretive exhibits, and an informal gathering/viewing area in the Lower Yosemite Fall area; a vehicle bridge across Yosemite Creek near Yosemite Lodge; a replacement footbridge at Happy Isles near the Nature Center; lodging at Yosemite Lodge and Curry Village; campsites at Camp 4 (Sunnyside Campground); campsites east of Curry Village, in the Upper Pines and Lower Pines areas, and along Tenaya Creek; employee housing at Curry Village, Yosemite Village, El Portal, Wawona, and Foresta; and two fire stations, one in the Yosemite Village area (outside of the Yosemite Village Historic District), and one in the Curry Village area.

The Yosemite Valley Plan will establish and implement: a Visitor Experience and Resource Protection (VERP) study and program to monitor existing and desired conditions for natural resources, cultural resources, and visitor experience; a traveler information and traffic management system to provide information to visitors, provide incentives for efficient use of available parking and transportation services, and manage access and parking; seasonal out-of-Valley day-visitor parking areas at Badger Pass, El Portal, and Hazel Green or Foresta; some utility hookups for recreational vehicles and shower facilities in campgrounds; and design guidelines for new construction and for rehabilitating the landscape in historic developed areas.

The Yosemite Valley Plan will convert: the Yosemite Museum/Valley District Building back to its historic function as a museum; Southside Drive from El Capitan crossover to Curry Village to two-way traffic (road widened where necessary); Northside Drive from El Capitan crossover to Yosemite Lodge from a vehicle road to a multi-use (bicycle and pedestrian) paved trail; and the trail to the base of Yosemite Falls to a route accessible by people with mobility impairments.

The Yosemite Valley Plan will increase or expand: shuttle bus service west to Bridalveil Fall and out-of-Valley parking areas; interpretive and orientation services, including a new visitor center in Yosemite Valley and visitor contact stations at or near principal park entrances; and multi-use paved trails.

The Yosemite Valley Plan will reduce: stock trails by approximately 0.5 mile (private stock use will continue on all other designated trails); lodging to approximately 961 units (including approximately 100 units at Housekeeping Camp); and traffic entering the east Valley on a typically busy day by 50 percent.

The Yosemite Valley Plan will relocate: employee housing to El Portal, Foresta, and Wawona (subject to further site planning, environmental review and public participation), leaving 723 employee beds in Yosemite Valley; National Park Service and concessioner administrative stables operations to McCauley Ranch in Foresta; National Park Service and concessioner headquarters out of Yosemite Valley; the historic Superintendent’s house (Residence 1) and its garage to a site within the Yosemite Village Historic District; and museum collections storage, research library, and archives consolidated in Yosemite Valley.

¹ The River Protection Overlay in areas above 3,800 feet in elevation includes the river channel itself and extends 150 feet on both sides of the river measured from the ordinary high water mark. In areas below 3,800 feet in elevation it includes 100 feet on both sides of the river measured from the ordinary high water mark.

Agency Name: American Indian Council of Mariposa County, Inc. (Southern Sierra Miwok)

Project Name: Indian Cultural Center

Description: An Indian Cultural Center would be established by the American Indian Council of Mariposa County, Inc. (Southern Sierra Miwok) at the site of the last-occupied Indian village in Yosemite Valley (west of Camp 4 [Sunnyside Campground]). This center would provide a location for culturally associated Indian people to conduct traditional ceremonies and to practice and teach techniques of traditional lifeways. While the center would be open to the public, access might be limited during special ceremonies. Some public interpretation would occur, but this cultural center would not replace the primary educational function of the current Indian Village of Ahwahnee at Yosemite Village. Facilities at the Indian Cultural Center would consist of structures and landscape features typical of an Indian village from the mid- to late-19th century. One large, partly subterranean ceremonial roundhouse and a smaller sweatlodge would be constructed. Approximately 15 cedar bark umachas (conical houses) would be built near the roundhouse and sweatlodge. Plants important for food, basketry, and medicinal uses may be grown. Existing archeological features, such as mortar rocks, would remain in place and be incorporated into the village design. The last extant structure from the original village, a small cabin (the former Westley and Alice Wilson home) currently being used as a National Park Service office, would be moved back to the village and adaptively reused as the cultural center office. A new kitchen and restroom facility would be constructed. Utilities (water, sewer, propane, unimproved road access, and electrical service) would be provided. Screening would be established where necessary to visually separate the cultural center and Northside Drive,  Yosemite Lodge, Camp 4 (Sunnyside Campground), and the Valley Loop Trail. The Valley Loop Trail could be relocated to a route south of the cultural center to minimize intrusions. Overnight  parking for scheduled activities would be provided at the Indian Cultural Center or other administrative areas.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Bridalveil Horse Camp Rehabilitation

Description: This site was identified as a high priority for campground improvement in the park based on severe resource impacts due to soil loss, specifically erosion from failing roads, stock trails, social trails, and deteriorating stock campsites. Planned work includes arresting potential water pollution from stock campsites and rehabilitation of the gravel campground loop road.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: El Portal, Trailer Village Closure

Description: The project calls for continuing to implement the actions described in the 1993 Trailer Village Closure Policy. Due to flood related risks all existing trailers would be removed from the site. The houses at Abbieville would not be affected. As a part of the closure process, the National Park Service would need to comply with the provisions of the Uniform Relocation Act of 1970, and on a case by case basis evaluate individual eligibility for housing and moving benefits.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Hodgdon Meadow Campground Rehabilitation

Description: This project was identified as a priority for campground infrastructure improvement to mitigate impacts to resources.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Tamarack Campground Rehabilitation

Description: This campground was identified as the highest priority for campground improvement based on severe resource impacts due to soil loss, specifically erosion from failing roads, trails, social trails, and deteriorating campsites. Much of the eroded soil is being deposited in a fragile creek. Planned work includes rehabilitation of the campground loop, relocation of ten campsites off Tamarack Creek, revegetation of the stream bank, and provision of additional campsites where possible within camp boundaries.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Tuolumne Meadows Development Concept Plan

Description: The draft planning objectives of this document include the following:

¨       Identify sites to be restored to natural conditions.

¨       Incorporate restoration actions to enhance these conditions and visitor experiences.

¨       Identify appropriate levels of development.

¨       Produce a comprehensive design plan for National Park Service and concessioner housing.

¨       Assure that site layout, functional relationships, and circulation patterns will be designed in a manner with the least impact on resource values.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Wawona Campground Rehabilitation

Description: The purpose of this project is to implement the General Management Plan goal to rehabilitate the Wawona Campground. Preliminary design plan, construction drawings, and bid documents will include the following actions: a) rehabilitate the campground entrance and loop road and individual campsite spurs, b) retrofit campsites and restrooms to meet accessibility standards, c) install low-flow toilet, replace toilet partitions, repaint, install energy efficient lights and heat, replace composition roofs with metal, and insulate and winterize the restrooms in loop A and B, d) construct showers e) replace exterior privacy partitions, f) reconstruct the amphitheater, g) remove septic tanks and leach fields, h) extend sewer, electrical service, and telephone 1.5 miles, i) replace existing signs with the new park sign system, and j) prepare a vegetation management plan which includes shoreline protection and reestablishes privacy and shade in the campground.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Yosemite Creek Campground Restoration

Description: This campground was identified as the second highest priority for campground improvement in the park based on severe resource impacts due to soil loss, specifically erosion from failing roads, trails, social trails, and deteriorating campsites. Much of the eroded soil is being deposited in a fragile creek. Planned work includes rehabilitation of the campground loop, relocation of eight campsites off Yosemite Creek, revegetation of the stream bank, and the addition of campsites where possible within camp boundaries.

Agency Name: National Park Service, Yosemite Institute

Project Name: Yosemite Institute, Crane Flat Campus Improvement

Description: This project proposes an educational center at Crane Flat that would enable Yosemite Institute to provide educational and interpretive programs about the park’s stories. Facilities would be operated by Yosemite Institute, and accommodate Yosemite Institute groups and park partner interpretive and educational programs, training programs, research and field seminars. The campus design and function would model sustainable energy and resource practices, and would meet accessibility standards. Existing facilities include dormitories, a shower house with bathrooms, kitchen and dining areas, field equipment storage, offices, staff housing, and indoor and outdoor spaces for meetings, training, instruction, and evening and campfire programs. Among the expanded facilities would be a science lab with hands-on study collections of common Sierra plants and vertebrates, and dissecting scopes.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange

Description: The park has been involved in land exchange negotiations with Yosemite Motels, Inc., owners of a parcel of land adjacent to the park boundary. The parcel desired by the National Park Service would be exchanged for park land directly downstream of the existing Yosemite Motels, Inc. development, between California Highway 140 and the Merced River, upstream of the confluence with Crane Creek. This parcel would accommodate a new entrance station complex and provide space for other needs. Yosemite Motels, Inc. would use exchanged park lands for construction of motel units, parking lots, a public trail system, and nature/river interpretive study areas.

Agency Name: National Park Service, State of California

Project Name: Sierra Nevada Research Institute – University of California, Merced

Description: The Sierra Nevada Research Institute facilities are being considered near or in both Yosemite and Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Parks. To serve Yosemite National Park, the potential project locations under consideration are Hazel Green Ranch and Wawona. At Hazel Green Ranch, the project would consist of a new facility that would include a research laboratory, operational and residential space for researchers, and a small student dormitory. At Wawona, the project would consist of providing similar facilities by adaptively using existing buildings located in the Wawona area.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Silvertip Resort Village Project

Description: Located within the community of Fish Camp in southern Mariposa County, the proposed development includes a 137-room hotel, 40 cabins, conference facilities, an exterior swimming pool, three decorative ponds, an on-site wastewater disposal system, and 359 parking spaces, as well as roadway, pathway, and utility line extensions.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Yosemite Motels Expansion

Description: This project site is located along the north and south sides of Highway 140 at the existing Yosemite View Lodge development, within the El Portal Town Planning Area. Permitting has been requested to construct a 78-unit motel and a multi-purpose chapel/recreation building. Proposed access to the 78-unit motel and multi-purpose chapel/recreation building would be from the north side of Highway 140. Permitting has also been requested for the construction of a 63-unit, 3-story motel building and associated parking near the existing Yosemite View Lodge. Access to this 63-unit building would be from the south side of Highway 140.

Agency Name: Merced County

Project Name: University of California Campus, Merced

Description:  A development concept is underway for a new 10,300-acre university community, which would include 8,100 acres owned by trusts, 200 acres owned by the County of Merced, and 2,000 acres that would be donated by a trust. The new development will be located north and east of Lake Yosemite, just outside of Merced, California. Currently, 150 acres are and would remain a golf course; the remaining acreage is currently undeveloped. At completion, the new community is expected to encompass 5,000 developed acres, with 31,500 residents and 31,600 students, faculty, and staff, for a total population of 63,100. The development will consist of 12,000 housing units, 825,000 square feet of commercial property, and a 2,750,000 square-foot business/employment center. This project is expected to bring significant urban development and growth to the northern portion of Merced County. The Merced campus is scheduled to open in fall 2005 and site construction is expected to begin in summer 2001. This development is located approximately 40 miles from Yosemite National Park, it requires approximately two hours of driving time on Highway 140 to reach the park. The site is located at the base of the Sierra Nevada foothills and is primarily composed of grazing land and non-native grasslands, with some wetlands.

Agency Name: City of Merced

Project Name: Merced City General Plan

Description: By 2015, the City of Merced is expected to increase from its 1999 population of 62,000 to 133,000. The growth area was expanded from 16,000 acres to 20,500 acres in 1997 to accommodate the expected increase in population with the adoption of the City of Merced’s General Plan.

Agency Name: Mono County

Project Name: Double Eagle Resort Construction at June Lake

Description: Approved plans for this project include an 11,000 square-foot resort/spa development, a 2,960 square-foot restaurant, a 2,520 square-foot conference facility, and 22 rental cabins with a 4,000-square-foot recreation building. The restaurant, spa, and 14 of the 22 rental cabins were proposed to be completed in the summer of 1999. The other eight cabins were scheduled for construction during the summer of 1999, while other facilities are still in the planning phase. This project is currently in the construction phase.

Agency Name: Mono County

Project Name: Hide-a-Way Down Canyon Condominiums, June Lake

Description: This project, now in the preliminary planning stage, will include ten condominium units.

Agency Name: Mono County

Project Name: Highlands, June Lake

Description: Approved plans for Phase I of this project include 113 condominium units and 35 single-family residential lots. Lots are expected to become available for sale in 2000, and construction of the condominium units may occur in two or three years. This project is currently in the planning (Environmental Impact Report) phase.

Agency Name: Mono County

Project Name: Residential Development, Crowley Lake

Description: This project, now in the preliminary planning stage, will include a 48-unit  multifamily apartment complex.

Agency Name: Mono County

Project Name: RV Park Specific Plan and Construction, Bodie

Description: This project will be located at the junction of U.S. 395 and S.R. 270 and will propose to impact approximately 13 acres of land on a 155 acre parcel. The project will consist of a general store, office, restroom, 10-unit motel, 600-square-foot old west museum, 32 space RV park, RV park restroom/shower, 8 cabins, 14 tent camping spaces, and 2 single-family residences.

Agency Name: Mono County

Project Name: Tioga Inn Improvement, Lee Vining

Description: Plans have been approved for this 120-room hotel at the intersection of Highways 395 and Highway 120. The hotel will also include ten residential housing units, banquet facilities, a coffee shop, a restaurant, and a gas station. Construction is estimated to begin in 2001 or 2002. This project is currently in the construction stage.

Agency Name: Tuolumne County

Project Name: Yosemite Gateway Plaza, Big Oak Flat

Description: The project, now in the planning stage, may include: 1) two hotels at 200 rooms each; 2) a 80,000 square-foot commercial center; 3) an IMAX-type theater; 4) fast-food restaurants; 5) a gas station; 6) a 200 space RV park; 7) an information building; and 8) parking to serve Yosemite National Park.

Other Types of Projects:

Agency: California State Department of Transportation; U.S. Department of Transportation; Mariposa County; Merced County Association of Governments; Mono County; National Park Service – Yosemite National Park; U.S. Forest Service – Sierra National Forest and Inyo National Forest

Project Name: Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS)

Description: YARTS is a collaborative, inter-agency effort begun in 1992 to evaluate the feasibility of a regional transportation system and to identify the best options for initial implementation and upkeep of such a system. YARTS is a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) under California law and the National Park Service is an ex-officio partner of the JPA Commission, participating in all discussions but not as a voting member. The YARTS mission statement is as follows:

YARTS will provide a positive alternative choice for access to Yosemite National Park for visitors, employees, and residents. YARTS service is not intended to replace auto-access or trans- Sierra travel, but is intended to provide a viable alternative that offers a positive experience, maximizing comfort and convenience for riders while guaranteeing access into the park. (Yosemite Area Regional Transportation Strategy 1999:4)

YARTS has four primary objectives:

¨       Increase transportation options

¨       Reduce reliance on automobiles

¨       Support local economies

¨       Improve regional air quality

The target market for YARTS service includes those visitors staying overnight in the gateway communities and Yosemite National Park employees who live in the gateway communities. Decisions on the placement of bus stops and transfer facilities are local land-use decisions that will be made by the County Board of Supervisors in gateway communities, and by the National Park Service for locations inside the park boundaries. YARTS staging areas outside the park are undergoing a region-wide NEPA/CEQA process, and will likely be a part of a region-wide shuttle bus system.

¨       YARTS is designed as a voluntary service that uses incentives to attract riders.

¨       YARTS is not intended to replace auto access to Yosemite National Park and does not support a ban on auto access to the park.

¨       YARTS supports the use of alternative fuels and is committed to operating vehicles utilizing the cleanest possible fuel as soon as practical.

¨       YARTS service will be designed to offer a seamless service between the gateway communities and major destinations within Yosemite National Park. YARTS buses will stop at attractions throughout the park and Yosemite Valley and will coordinate services with the park’s internal shuttle bus operations.

¨       The initial YARTS service is a demonstration project. The purpose of the demonstration project will be to evaluate the public reaction to taking the bus, the quality of the service provided, and the impacts of YARTS transit on local communities. A two-year demonstration service will test the YARTS concept. Implementation of the demonstration service occurred in May 2000 and the service is scheduled to operate until May 2002, with most service offered in the summer months. One component of the YARTS effort to date includes bus stop improvements. On the Highway 140 corridor, eleven stops in each direction were approved, including stops in El Portal, Midpines, Mariposa, Cathey’s Valley, and Merced. The project also includes approved stops in Mono County. Twelve to fifteen stops are currently approved and in use in Yosemite National Park. Three are approved and in use in the El Portal Administrative Site. Only minor safety improvements have occurred at the El Portal sites.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Discovery View Scenic Overlook Vault Toilet Installation

Description: This project proposes to install a vault toilet at the Discovery View scenic overlook in Yosemite Valley. Work will include purchasing a four-unit manufactured concrete vault toilet structure; excavating the vault site; and assembling of the restroom on site.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: El Portal Road Improvement Project

Description: This federal jurisdiction transportation project, which is entirely within the National Park Service’s jurisdiction, involves the reconstruction of 7.5 miles of the El Portal Road (Segments A, B, and C) from the Yosemite National Park boundary in El Portal to Cascades Diversion Dam near the intersection of El Portal Road and Big Oak Flat Road. The project will improve access to Yosemite Valley and reduce safety concerns. The El Portal Road is a primary route for visitors accessing Yosemite Valley, and is the shortest all-weather route to the Valley. It also serves as the primary commuting route for park employees living in El Portal, Midpines, and Mariposa.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Happy Isles to Vernal Falls Trail Reconstruction

Description: This project proposes to reconstruct 5,400 linear feet of the Vernal Fall Trail from Happy Isles to the base of the Mist Trail stairs. Actions include construction of an average tread width of seven feet; rebuilding of trail walls; redistribution of old pavement as sub-base; and application of layers of aggregate road base, tack oil, and asphalt, with a granite dust topcoat. On steeper sections of the trail, improved traction will be provided for pedestrians. A functioning drainage system will be established in the trail corridor by paving water breaks and constructing rock drainages to channel water away from the trail.

Agency Name: National Park Service/City and County of San Francisco

Project Name: Hetch Hetchy Road Reconstruction

Description: To maintain administrative and visitor access to O’Shaughnessy Dam, the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir, and other associated areas, the National Park Service in 1999 and 2000 improved 8.6 miles of the Hetch Hetchy Road in Yosemite National Park, Tuolumne County, California. This project included:

¨       Repairing the roadbed

¨       Resurfacing the road with asphalt concrete

¨       Re-grading and paving the existing drainage ditch

¨       Installing 15 culverts and associated inflow and outflow structures

¨       Repairing damaged embankments and stone wall

The action stabilized the roadway, decreased annual maintenance needs, reduced the likelihood of future road closures due to flooding, improved the safety of the road, and helped ensure a safe and reliable water supply for the City and County of San Francisco.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Hodgdon Meadow Water and Wastewater Treatment Improvement 

Description: Hodgdon Meadow is located at an elevation of 4,575 feet. During peak summer usage, water and wastewater must be provided for 70 residents, up to 440 campers (130 campsites with two restrooms), and up to 5,000 visitors per day who use the Big Oak Flat Entrance Station facilities. Improvements are required to meet state and federal regulations regarding public health and safety and to protect the natural environment. Improvements to the water system will include: providing an additional water source, improving water quality, increasing water storage capacity, improving water system controls, replacing asbestos cement pipe, equalizing system pressure, and constructing a dedicated line from treatment to storage. Improvements to the wastewater system will include: improving solids handling and effluent quality, improving the disinfection system, constructing primary and secondary treatment facilities, improving the spray field, replacing the leach field, and replacing the septic tank.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Red Peak Pass Trail Rehabilitation

Description: This project proposes to reconstruct the trail from Red Peak Pass to the Triple Peak Fork of the Merced River. Work will include extensive construction of rock retaining wall, rip-rap tread, water breaks, terrace steps, and meadow restoration.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: South Fork Merced River Bridge Replacement

Description: The existing flood-damaged and temporary replacement South Fork Merced River Bridge will be replaced with a single-span structure.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Rehabilitation of Tuolumne Grove Trailhead Parking

Description: This project would redesign and pave the existing Tuolumne Grove dirt trailhead parking area to accommodate automobile, buses and/or recreation vehicles for summer and winter use. It would include preparation of preliminary design plans, environmental compliance documents, construction drawings, and bid documents. Construction projects include: vault toilets; installation of signs for improved way-finding; development of a picnic area; revegetation of cut slopes; visual screening of the trailhead area from Tioga Road; and providing for accessibility for visitors with disabilities.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Replacement/Rehabilitation of Yosemite Valley Main Sewer Line 

Description: This project consists of slip lining the sewer between Yosemite Lodge lift station and the El Capitan wood yard and includes the selective replacement of manholes.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Tuolumne Meadows Water and Wastewater Improvements

Description: The original objective of these improvements was to halt surface water diversion from the seasonally unpredictable and unprotected Dana Fork, and to develop a water supply from reliable and protected ground water sources. However, hydrogeological evaluations have found no aquifer capable of providing an adequate water supply. The park is steering toward using an infiltration gallery to collect water directly from the main stem of the Tuolumne River. The collection site would be placed under the Tioga Road Bridge that crosses the main stem of the Tuolumne River near Lembert Dome. Also, this project would include design and construction to improve process efficiency of the Tuolumne Meadows water and wastewater treatment facilities, which currently impose grave risks to the environment and threats to public health. Tuolumne Meadows is the largest sub alpine meadow in the Sierra Nevada; the meadow is fragile, with a short growing season, where recovery from resource damage can take years to accomplish. The treatment facilities, located at an elevation of 8,575 feet, support approximately 5,000 park visitors and 200 park staff daily from May through October. Facilities served include a 304-site campground, a visitor center, a retail sales/service station, a 104-bed lodge, food service and grocery facility, and employee housing. Work will include construction of a new wastewater treatment plant, modification of an existing pump station to transport raw sewage to the new plant location, elimination of sewage lagoons, and demolition of the existing plant. The new facility will include extended aeration, a covered 860,000-gallon effluent storage tank, sludge-handling capabilities, and an expanded spray field. The water line and electric service will be extended one mile to the new plant location and the access road will be improved. A 150,000-gallon water storage tank will be constructed. All work will be performed through contracts.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Wawona, Seventh Day Adventist Parcel Land Exchange

Description: The park has been involved in land exchange negotiations with the Seventh Day Adventist (SDA) Recreational Camp, located in Wawona. SDA is owner of a parcel of land adjacent to the park boundary and designated Wilderness. Current land use impacts adjacent wilderness lands. The parcel desired by the National Park Service would be exchanged for park land adjacent to the lower portion of the existing SDA parcel, but away from the Wilderness boundary.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: White Wolf Water System Improvements

Description: The National Park Service proposes to design and construct upgrades to correct treatment process deficiency and capacity for the White Wolf water distribution, collection, and treatment facilities. The project includes the development of a new underground state-approved water source; the construction of a new state approved treatment facility, and the replacement of approximately 9,200 linear feet of water supply and distribution piping. The project would provide remote supervisory control and data acquisition of SCADA water treatment and improve vehicular and pedestrian access to the water treatment facility in an attempt to minimize existing safety concerns. Once the project is complete, emphasis will be focused on the restoration and revegetation of all disturbed areas.

Agency Name: National Park Service

Project Name: Yosemite Valley Shuttle Bus Stop Improvements

Description: This project consists of the preparation of preliminary design plans, environmental compliance documents, and construction drawings; and the construction of six 10 x 80 foot concrete braking pads, and the rehabilitation or replacement of 94,000 square feet of asphalt road approaches.

Agency Name: Hetch Hetchy Water and Power, City and County of San Francisco

Project Name: O’Shaughnessy Compound Water System Improvements

Description: The O’Shaughnessy Dam/Hetch Hetchy Reservoir is located in the northwestern portion of Yosemite National Park. The purpose of this project is to repair and replace the piping and appurtenances of the domestic water system for the O’Shaughnessy Dam Compound. During construction there will be reduced access to some portions of the compound and visitor facilities. Excavation and other construction activities may uncover artifacts from the O’Shaughnessy Dam construction period (1915-1938).

Agency Name: Hetch Hetchy Water and Power, City and County of San Francisco

Project Name: O’Shaughnessy Dam Well

Description: The dam outlet facilities will be modified to allow outlets to be used at more than one elevation for diverting water to the Canyon Tunnel. The feasibility of alternative conceptual designs is currently being evaluated.

Agency Name: Madera County

Project Name: Highway 41 Extension

Description: Highway 41 is a two-lane highway extending in a north/south direction through eastern Madera County from the Fresno County Line to the Mariposa County Line. It provides access to Yosemite National Park and the recreational areas of the east county. The Madera County Area Regional Transportation Plan (November 1994) lists the following planned improvements for Highway 41:

Table 5.1   Planned Improvements for Highway 41 in Madera County

Note: Projects are listed according to their proximity to Yosemite National Park.

The first two project improvements are located immediately outside of Fresno, California, approximately 50 miles south of the park, and the last project improvement is located approximately 8 to 10 miles from the park. The “Fresno County Line to Avenue 11” and the “Avenue 11 to Avenue 12” improvements are the most likely to occur in the near future. The others, with the exception of resurfacing work for the “Ranger Station to Cedar Valley Road,” which has already been completed, probably will not occur until at least 2015. The “Coarsegold Creek Bridge to Marava” project involves very minor safety improvements. Highway 41 improvements are expected to relieve existing congestion problems, but it is not anticipated that they will affect traffic counts near the park. According to Bob Stone, Executive Director of the Madera County Transportation Commission, Highway 41 traffic counts are 30,000 trips per day at the county line and 3,000 trips per day at the Yosemite National Park gate.

Agency Name: Madera County

Project Name: Rio Mesa Area Plan

Description: This area plan encompasses approximately 15,000 acres on the east side of Highway  41, between the San Joaquin River and Highway 145. Construction of approximately 29,000 dwelling units is expected over 100 years. The elevation of the project area is almost 500 feet and lower on flat valley land. This project has an approved area plan that at this stage is conceptual. The next step would require the property owners to work together to develop sub-area plans. No estimates can be made at this time regarding the number of units to be constructed in the next 15 to 20 years. Several different property owners are involved in this project and a timeline for progression to the next tier of planning is difficult to estimate.

Agency Name: Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau, Madera County

Project Name: Winter Recreation Feasibility Study

Description: The Yosemite Sierra Visitors Bureau has applied for funding for an Eastern Madera County Winter Recreation Feasibility Study to define the potential or lack of potential for winter recreation opportunities in Eastern Madera and the surrounding area. This would be accomplished through a market research study to: (1) identify if there is an interest in winter recreation opportunities, (2) identify whether this would lend itself to an anticipated winter visitation, (3) obtain feedback from existing U.S. Forest Service recreation business permit holders for the purpose of identifying better levels of service to the general public from these recreation providers, and (4) preparation of an implementation plan which relates the demand and the potential for obtaining funding and in-kind services to support recommendations, if any, from the analyses.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Expansion of County Transit System

Description: Mariposa County plans to use federal funds matched with the local Transportation Fund dollars for bus purchases to meet the needs of the Mariposa County Transit System. Plans are to purchase four new buses that will be used to replace existing buses. As part of this project, service has been expanded from Coulterville and Greeley Hill to Mariposa, adding one trip per week. County transit system service would potentially be merged with the Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System when YARTS is implemented.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Incline Road Reconstruction, Foresta Road Bridge to South Fork

Description: During the flood of January 1997, Incline Road sustained substantial damage. The objective of this project was to reconstruct the roadway to pre-flood conditions from Foresta Bridge to a point near the Merced River/South Fork Merced River confluence. The project consisted of reconstructing the roadway by reinforcing the fill and resurfacing with both road base and asphalt. The project was completed in June 2000.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Mariposa County General Plan Update

Description: The Mariposa County General Plan will update county wide zoning ordinances and related implementing documents. This update is intended to allow Mariposa County to comply with current California law. Specifically, it is intended that this would allow Mariposa County to comply with changes to state law that have changed since the 1980 General Plan was adopted. This update will follow established public involvement protocol and may respond to county wide land-use issues.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Mariposa Creek Pedestrian/Bike Path

Description: This pedestrian/bike path will eventually traverse the town of Mariposa for 3.5 miles from Highway 49 north, to the Mariposa County fairgrounds, two miles south of the Highways 140/49 intersection. The bike/pedestrian path will eventually add other routes and could serve local commuters when complete. Currently, the county is beginning construction of a three block section located in the center of the town of Mariposa. Estimated project completion is approximately ten years, depending on funding availability.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Recreation Master Plan

Description: This plan, now in the early planning stage, is intended to address county wide recreational opportunities, facilities, and strategies.

Agency Name: Mariposa County

Project Name: Road Improvement and Circulation Policy