Valley elderberry longhorn beetle (Desmocerus californicus dimorphus)

Status: Federal threatened; California species of special concern. Projects below elevations of 3,000 feet that could affect the abundance of elderberry plants, the Valley elderberry longhorn beetle’s host plant, would affect this species and could ultimately affect populations in Yosemite. The distribution of Valley elderberry longhorn beetles and their host plant in the park is rather small, with the only suitable habitat occurring in the Merced River Canyon in El Portal. Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects in this location would, therefore, have the greatest potential to affect the park population of Valley elderberry longhorn beetle. Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects in the Merced River Canyon in El Portal with the potential to adversely effect the Valley elderberry longhorn beetle include the Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS) and the Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.). However, the impact would be limited by the high abundance of elderberry plants in the surrounding area and mitigations that would be required by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Other projects with a potential to adversely affect Valley elderberry longhorn beetle include the Mariposa Creek Pedestrian/Bike Path (Mariposa Co.); the Buildout of City of Merced, General Plan; and the Merced River Canyon Trail Acquisition (BLM). Actions under this alternative would also be primarily adverse due to development of housing and administrative facilities in El Portal.

All of these projects would could damage or destroy elderberry plants, which would directly affect local Valley elderberry longhorn beetle populations. However, mitigation requirements established through consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other agencies would limit these impacts to minor and adverse. Minor, beneficial impacts would be expected from the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) because these plans would potentially lead to greater protection of elderberry plants. The combination of beneficial effects, resulting from implementation of regional plans that cover wide areas of the Valley elderberry longhorn beetle range, and adverse impacts, including actions under this alternative that would generally affect relatively small numbers of elderberry plants, would result in an overall minor, beneficial impact on Valley elderberry longhorn beetles. Adverse impacts would be minimized through the implementation of mitigation measures prescribed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect the species.

Limestone salamander (Hydromantes brunus)

Status: Federal species of concern; California threatened. The limestone salamander has a very restricted distribution. Its habitat is protected by the 120-acre Limestone Salamander Ecological Reserve and the Bureau of Land Management 1,600-acre Limestone Salamander Area of Critical Environmental Concern. It is only known to occur in the mixed chaparral habitats of the Merced River and its tributaries, in association with limestone outcrops between 800 and 2,500 feet in elevation. Existing features that affect this species include road cuts and water impoundments that affect its habitat. Present and reasonably foreseeable future projects in El Portal (Yosemite View Land Parcel Exchange [NPS] and Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal [Mariposa Co.]) are the only projects with the potential to impact the limestone salamander, but this species has never been found in El Portal. Impact to this species would, therefore, be negligible. Likewise, projects in El Portal associated with this alternative are unlikely to cause any effect on limestone salamanders. Overall cumulative impact on this species would, therefore, be negligible.

California red-legged frog (Rana aurora draytonii)

Status: Federal threatened; California species of special concern. Projects in the vicinity of Yosemite are unlikely to affect any known populations of red-legged frogs. Environmental compliance carried out in association with these projects would require further surveys to evaluate whether unknown populations of red-legged frogs could be affected. Projects that degrade aquatic habitats, however, are likely to adversely affect suitability of such habitats for red-legged frogs, if reintroduction or recolonization of this species becomes possible.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could have adverse impacts on aquatic habitats include Rio Mesa Area Plan (Madera Co.); University of California, Merced Campus (Merced Co.); and the Buildout of City of Merced, General Plan. Beneficial impacts to aquatic habitats may result from the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS). These beneficial effects would be augmented by restoration of potential habitat in Yosemite Valley under this alternative. Overall, cumulative impacts would be beneficial, based on potential protection of red-legged frog habitat through the implementation of plans that cover wide areas coupled with restoration of suitable habitat through the implementation of this alternative. The intensity of this impact would be minor because this species is almost extinct from the Sierra Nevada region, but habitat should be protected for potential reintroduction or recolonization of the species. Projects with a possible negative impact on red-legged frogs would affect a relatively small area of habitat compared to projects with potential beneficial impacts, but these projects could have a major negative impact if they affected an unknown population of red-legged frogs, which could be among the last in the Sierra Nevada. However, site surveys would be completed in compliance with site and federal regulations as applicable, thus minimizing the potential adverse effects.

Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)

Status: Federal threatened; California endangered. Projects associated with the Merced River could adversely affect habitat that is transiently used by bald eagles, such as at the Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS). The Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) has the potential to benefit eagles by preserving riparian and riverine habitat through implementation of the River Protection Overlay. The beneficial effects of this would be enhanced by restoration of riparian and river habitats in Yosemite Valley under this alternative. Overall, the cumulative impact on bald eagles would be minor and beneficial.

Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus)

Status: California endangered. Because peregrine falcons forage over a broad range of habitat types adjacent to their nesting cliffs, implementation of plans with potential widespread effects would have the greatest impact on this species. These plans include the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS), and the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), which would have minor, beneficial effects. These plans are complementary to the beneficial effects of this alternative on peregrine falcons in Yosemite National Park, where the concentration of the species is among the highest in the Sierra Nevada. No current and reasonably foreseeable future projects considered would have an adverse impact on peregrine falcons because these projects are not anticipated to effect cliff nesting habitat or surrounding foraging habitat. Greater regional effects on peregrine falcons that nest in the Sierra come from degradation of seasonally used coastal and wetland habitats and pesticide residues in the peregrine falcon’s food chain.

Restoration of a diversity of habitat types in Yosemite Valley under this alternative would augment regional beneficial impacts from current and reasonably foreseeable future projects outside the park. Development of parking at Taft Toe would remove an area of forest habitat near a known peregrine nest site but would have a negligible effect on the falcons. The overall cumulative impact on peregrine falcons would be minor and beneficial, based primarily on the beneficial effects of widespread plans on Sierra Nevada habitats but limited by the continued adverse effects of pesticides.

Great gray owl (Strix nebulosa)

Status: California endangered. The great gray owl nests in mixed conifer and red fir forests near meadows and winters at lower elevations in mixed conifer down to blue oak woodlands. Nearly the entire California population of great gray owls breeds in the Yosemite region, where habitats are relatively intact. Some research suggests that this species is susceptible to human disturbance, which may explain its absence from Yosemite Valley, where great gray owls are rarely seen despite the presence of apparently suitable habitat. The Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project has the greatest potential to effect great gray owls because of this area’s meadow habitats and proximity to the park. Past studies and recent surveys, however, indicate the meadows are seldom used by great gray owls, and then probably just by transient owls moving between wintering and nesting areas (Skiff 1995; Skenfield 1999). Development at Hazel Green Ranch would likely avoid meadow habitats, but increased human disturbance in the area could deter owls from using these areas, resulting in minor, adverse effects. Sites of other current and reasonably foreseeable future projects have habitats that are unsuitable for great gray owls, or previous impacts at these sites have rendered the habitats unsuitable. Current and reasonably foreseeable future development projects are, therefore, expected to have a minor but adverse effect on great gray owls.

Projects that could have a beneficial effect on this species by preserving or restoring habitat include the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS), and Fire Management Action Plan for Wilderness (USFS, Stanislaus). These plans could beneficially affect great gray owls by restoring habitat and limiting future impacts over wide areas of the Sierra Nevada. Under this alternative, restoration of habitats in Yosemite Valley would be beneficial to great gray owls. If stables are developed at McCauley Ranch, this could have an adverse effect on the few great gray owls that occasionally use this habitat in winter. Overall, cumulative impacts on great gray owls from current and reasonably foreseeable future projects, in combination with actions under this alternative, would be moderate and beneficial, based primarily on implementation of regional plans with widespread effect, compared to development projects with localized adverse effects.

Willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii)

Status: California endangered. The willow flycatcher was formerly a common Sierra Nevada species in meadows with dense growth of willow shrubs. Likely causes for the recent steep declines in populations include destruction of habitat and nest parasitism by brown-headed cowbirds. Willow flycatchers have not nested in Yosemite Valley for more than 30 years but in recent years have been seen at Wawona Meadow and Hodgdon Meadow. Projects that would cause degradation of meadow habitat or increased abundance of brown-headed cowbirds would adversely affect willow flycatchers through habitat loss and nest parasitism, respectively. The site of the Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project contains meadows that could be directly or indirectly affected. No willow flycatchers were found at this site during recent surveys, and habitat in the meadows appears to be unsuitable for this species. Regional and parkwide planning efforts, such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could benefit the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the willow flycatcher. Implementation of these plans could help restore habitats, control the effects of grazing, and reduce cowbird abundance by reducing fragmentation of forest communities. These regional benefits would be augmented by actions under this alternative that would restore willow flycatcher habitat in Yosemite Valley and reduce cowbird abundance. The overall cumulative impact on willow flycatchers under Alternative 3 would be minor and beneficial.

Sierra Nevada red fox (Vulpes vulpes necator)

Status: Federal species of concern; California threatened. The Sierra Nevada red fox is found mostly above elevations of 7,000 feet in a wide variety of habitat types. The Sierra Nevada red fox is rare, and its population appears to be declining. The cause of this decline is unknown, but it could be related to human activities that disturb habitat, such as logging and fire suppression. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for red foxes. These actions could have long-term, moderate to major, beneficial effects on suitable red fox habitat depending on the alternatives chosen for implementation and the extent of their implementation over time.

Current and foreseeable future projects that could adversely effect suitable habitat for red foxes include Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.) and the Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.). These projects would primarily affect forest habitat. In addition, actions under this alternative would have a minor, adverse effect on red foxes, primarily through effects on habitat at Tioga Pass.

Overall, there would be a moderate, beneficial impact on Sierra Nevada red foxes, based on the potential protection of suitable habitat if regional plans are implemented. The projects with a possible adverse effect on red foxes, including the actions under this alternative, would affect a relatively small area of habitat compared to projects with potential beneficial effects.

California wolverine (Gulo gulo luteus)

Status: Federal species of concern; California threatened. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS), could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for California wolverines. These regional plans would have a long-term, moderate, beneficial effect on the California wolverine.

The possible expansion of facilities at Tioga Pass, and increased visitor use in that area that could occur under this alternative, could have an adverse effect on California wolverines. However, this impact would be minor, given the apparent scarcity of this species in the Sierra Nevada.

Overall cumulative impacts on California wolverines would be moderate and beneficial, based primarily upon the implementation of management plans that have the potential for protecting wide areas of wolverine habitat in the Sierra Nevada, compared to the limited effects of increased human use at Tioga Pass under this alternative.

Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis sierrae)

Status: Federal endangered; California endangered. Because this species occurs at high elevation, few of the reasonably current and foreseeable future projects would affect it. Implementation of plans that cover wide areas of habitat outside the park, such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS) and U.S. Forest Service plans for wilderness adjacent to the park, could result in moderate to major beneficial effects on bighorn sheep, depending upon the alternatives selected and the extent of their implementation over time. Such benefit could be major if the plans reduce the area grazed by domestic sheep, which would reduce the threat of disease transmission to bighorns and open more areas for reintroduction of the species.

Only the Tioga Inn, Lee Vining (Mono Co.) project could adversely affect bighorn sheep. Historically, some bighorn sheep probably descended to this area during winter, and the area could be used again if the species recovers in abundance. However, existing development has already affected the quality of habitat in the area.

Possible expansion of facilities at the Tioga Pass Entrance is the only action under Alternative 3 that could affect bighorn sheep, but this impact would be negligible, given the relative inaccessibility of their habitat. This impact, coupled with the effects of current and reasonably foreseeable future projects outside Yosemite National Park, would result in an overall, moderate and beneficial cumulative impact on Sierra Nevada bighorn sheep under Alternative 3, based upon potential implementation of land management plans that could protect and improve habitat conditions over wide areas of the Sierra Nevada.

Yosemite toad (Bufo canorus)

Status: Federal species of concern; California species of special concern. Projects that would have an appreciable impact on meadow habitats of this high-elevation species are most likely to affect populations of the Yosemite toad. Projects that would have a potential beneficial impact on the Yosemite toad, due to complementary management objectives, include the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS), and U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness. Projects that would have a potentially adverse impact on the Yosemite toad include the Tioga Inn, Lee Vining (Mono Co.); Highlands, June Lake (Mono Co.); and Double Eagle Resort Construction at June Lake (Mono Co.) projects. Actions under this alternative that would expand facilities at Tioga Pass Entrance and lead to increased visitor use of Badger Pass could affect Yosemite toads, but such effects would be negligible.

Overall, cumulative impacts to the Yosemite toad would be moderate and beneficial, based primarily on the potential for protection of habitat and populations resulting from implementation of plans that would affect large, high-elevation areas. Projects with adverse impacts would affect relatively small areas where the presence of the Yosemite toad is questionable.

Foothill yellow-legged frog (Rana boylei)

Status: Federal species of concern; California species of special concern. The impact on the foothill yellow-legged frog would be similar to that of the California red-legged frog; the foothill yellow-legged frog is virtually extinct in the Sierra Nevada and, therefore, projects in its area of former occurrence would not affect any existing populations. However, projects that affect suitable habitat (e.g., wet meadows and rocky streams) may affect reintroduction or recolonization of this species. Projects that would have beneficial impacts include the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS), and U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, and Fire Management Plan for Wilderness (USFS, Stanislaus).

These beneficial effects would be augmented by restoration of suitable habitat in Yosemite Valley. Overall, the cumulative impact would be minor and beneficial based on potential protection of foothill yellow-legged frog habitat through implementation of plans that cover wide areas and restoration of potential habitats in Yosemite Valley under this alternative. The intensity of this impact would be minor because this species is almost extinct from the Sierra Nevada, but habitat should be protected for potential reintroduction or recolonization of the species. Projects with a possible adverse impact on foothill yellow-legged frogs, such as the Mariposa Creek Pedestrian/Bike Path (Mariposa Co.), Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS), and Merced River Canyon Trail Acquisition (BLM), would affect a relatively small area of habitat compared to projects with potential beneficial impacts. These projects could, though, have a major, adverse impact if they affected an unknown population of foothill yellow-legged frogs, which could be among the last in the Sierra Nevada. However, site surveys would be completed where applicable, as required by Council on Environmental Quality and Endangered Species Act, prior to disturbance to determine whether this species is present.

Mountain yellow-legged frog (Rana muscosa)

Status: Federal species of concern; California species of special concern. The foreseeable future projects that would have beneficial impacts to aquatic habitats due to complementary management objectives include the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, and Fire Management Action Plan for Wilderness (USFS, Stanislaus). Development that would occur at Tioga Pass would have a negligible effect on mountain yellow-legged frogs and, therefore, would not be a factor in cumulative impacts. Projects with potential adverse effects include the Hazel Green Ranch Project, and projects at June Lake (Mono Co.). Overall, the cumulative impact is expected to be moderate and beneficial based on the amount of habitat and number of populations that would be affected by implementation of plans designed to better protect Sierra Nevada ecosystems. Projects with negative impacts could affect small areas and relatively few populations (if present).

California spotted owl (Strix occidentalis occidentalis)

Status: Federal species of concern; California species of special concern. The decline of the California spotted owl in the Sierra Nevada has been linked to degradation of its forest habitats from logging, which affects the size of forested tracts as well as tree density and age. Projects likely to have a beneficial impact on spotted owl habitat, through long-term habitat improvements plans, include the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), Orange Crush Fuels Treatment Projects (USFS, Stanislaus), A-Rock Reforestation (USFS, Stanislaus), Rogge-Ackerson Fire Reforestation (Tuolumne Co.), and the Fire Management Action Plan for Wilderness (USFS, Stanislaus). In addition, actions under this alternative would restore habitats near known spotted owl nest sites in Yosemite Valley, thus providing beneficial effects. Development of the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center would, however, occur near a known pair of spotted owls, resulting in adverse effects. Development outside of Yosemite Valley at entrance stations would affect small areas of spotted owls foraging habitat, but such areas are distant from known or suspected nesting areas. Projects with potentially adverse impacts include the Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.), Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project, and Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.).

Overall, the cumulative impact on this species would be moderate and beneficial, based primarily on implementation of plans for ecosystem-based management of forest habitats over much of the Sierra Nevada and reforestation projects that would hasten a return of habitat more suitable for spotted owls, in combination with beneficial and adverse effects on spotted owl habitat in Yosemite Valley that would occur under this alternative. Projects with negative impacts would affect relatively small areas, and would not have far-ranging impacts on the California spotted owl and habitat restoration that would occur under this alternative.

Marten (Martes americana)

Status: Federal species of concern. The marten is dependent on dense, complex coniferous forests with large trees, snags, and structural complexity near the ground. Projects likely to have a beneficial impact on marten habitat due to complementary management objectives include the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), Orange Crush Fuels Treatment Projects (USFS, Stanislaus), A-Rock Reforestation, Rogge-Ackerson Fire Reforestation (USFS, Stanislaus), and the Fire Management Action Plan for Wilderness (USFS, Stanislaus). Projects likely to have an adverse impact on marten habitat include the Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.), Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project, and the Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.). Impacts on martens under this alternative would be primarily adverse due to the development of parking facilities in Yosemite Valley and expansion of entrance stations outside of Yosemite Valley, although such effects would be negligible.

Overall, the cumulative impact on martens would be moderate and beneficial, based primarily on better protection of forest habitats through implementation of plans that could affect wide areas of the Sierra Nevada. Reforestation projects could hasten the return of forest habitats that are more favorable to marten. In comparison, projects with potential adverse impacts on martens, including this alternative, would affect relatively small areas of forest habitat.

Pacific fisher (Martes pennanti pacifica)

Status: Federal species of concern; California species of special concern. Pacific fishers in the Sierra Nevada prefer coniferous forests (especially fir) with a high degree of canopy closure and structural complexity. Projects likely to have a beneficial effect on fisher habitat, due to complementary management objectives, include the Yosemite Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), Orange Crush Fuels Treatment Projects (USFS, Stanislaus), A-Rock Reforestation (USFS, Stanislaus), Rogge-Ackerson Fire Reforestation (Tuolumne Co.), and the Fire Management Action Plan for Wilderness (USFS, Stanislaus). Projects likely to have an adverse effect on fisher habitat include the Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.), Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project, and the Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.). Effects on fishers under this alternative would be primarily adverse due to the development of parking facilities in Yosemite Valley and expansion of entrance stations outside of Yosemite Valley, although such effects would be negligible.

Overall, the cumulative impact on the Pacific fisher would be moderate and beneficial, based primarily on better protection of forest habitats through implementation of plans that could affect wide areas of the Sierra Nevada. Reforestation projects could hasten the return of forest habitats more favorable to the fisher. In comparison, projects with the potential to adversely impact fishers, including this alternative, would affect relatively small areas of forest habitat.

Merced Canyon shoulderband snail (Helminthoglypta allynsmithi)

Status: Federal species of concern. Regional planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS) and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the Merced Canyon shoulderband snail. These actions could, in turn, have long-term, minor, beneficial effects on suitable habitat. The Incline Road Construction, Foresta Road Bridge to South Fork (Mariposa Co.) project could have a detrimental effect on snail habitat, but such an effect is expected to be minor because it would primarily affect previously impacted areas. Development that would occur in El Portal under this alternative would cause negligible impact to this snail species because no suitable habitat would be affected.

Overall, there would be a minor, beneficial, cumulative impact on the Merced Canyon shoulderband snail, based on the potential protection of suitable habitat from regional plans, whereas actions under this alternative would have a negligible effect.

Mariposa sideband snail (Monadenia hillebrandi)

Status: Federal species of concern. Regional planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS) and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the Mariposa sideband snail. These actions could have long-term, minor, beneficial effects on suitable habitat. Restoration of potential habitat in Yosemite Valley under this alternative would augment this beneficial effect. Projects with the potential to adversely affect this species include the El Portal Road Improvement Project (NPS); the Incline Road Construction; Foresta Road Bridge to South Fork (Mariposa Co.) project; and Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.). Impacts from these projects are expected to have a local, minor, adverse effect on the species because these projects either occur in areas of previous disturbance or in areas that do not contain suitable habitat.

Overall, there would be a minor, beneficial, cumulative impact on the Mariposa sideband snail, based on the potential protection of suitable habitat from regional plans and restoration of habitats in Yosemite Valley.

Sierra pygmy grasshopper (Tetrix sierrana)

Status: Federal species of concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the Sierra pygmy grasshopper. These actions could have long-term, minor, beneficial effects on suitable habitat. Projects with potential adverse effects include the Incline Road Construction, Foresta Road Bridge to South Fork (Mariposa Co.) project and the Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.). The effects of these projects would be limited to minor and adverse because they would occur in areas that do not contain suitable habitat or in areas of previous disturbance. Under this alternative, restoration of riparian habitats in Yosemite Valley would beneficially affect this species, while developments in El Portal and South Entrance could have a localized, adverse effect on suitable habitat.

The overall cumulative impact on the Sierra pygmy grasshopper is expected to be minor and beneficial, based on the potential protection of large areas of suitable habitat provided by implementation of regional plans in combination with mixed effects from this alternative.

Wawona riffle beetle (Atractelmis wawona)

Status: Federal species of concern. Cumulative effects that could have large-scale benefits to Wawona riffle beetle habitat include regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS) and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS). These beneficial effects would be augmented by restoration of large areas of riparian and meadow habitat in Yosemite Valley that would occur under this alternative. The Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS) could affect aquatic habitat for the riffle beetle in the adjacent reach of the Merced River. Overall, there would be a minor, beneficial, cumulative effect on the riffle beetle. This is largely due to regional and parkwide planning that would protect wide areas of habitat for the Wawona riffle beetle, combined with habitat restoration that would occur under this alternative.

Bohart’s blue butterfly (Philotiella speciosa bohartorum)

Status: Federal species of concern. The nearest documented occurrence of this species to the park is near Briceburg, west of El Portal. Regional planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the Bohart’s blue butterfly over a wide area of foothill habitat. This action could have long-term, minor, beneficial effects on suitable habitat. Further surveys for this species have found the Bohart’s blue butterfly in other areas such as Merced, Fresno, and Tulare counties. Projects in those areas, such as the Rio Mesa Area Plan (Madera Co.) and University of California, Merced Campus (Merced Co.), could have a local, minor, adverse effect on Bohart’s blue butterfly. These effects would be limited in scale, in comparison to the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), which would help protect wide areas of foothill woodland habitat that is declining rapidly. Development of parking, housing, and administrative facilities that would occur under this alternative could adversely affect suitable habitat, although the occurrence of the Bohart’s blue butterfly in El Portal is questionable.

The overall cumulative impact on the Bohart’s blue butterfly would be minor and beneficial, based on the potential beneficial protection of wide areas of suitable habitat from the Sierra Nevada Framework, as opposed to localized potential adverse impacts in El Portal that would occur under this alternative.

Mount Lyell salamander (Hydromantes platycephalus)

Status: Federal species of concern; California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the Mount Lyell salamander over a wide area. These actions, augmented by habitat restoration in Yosemite Valley under this alternative, have the potential for long-term, minor, beneficial, cumulative effects on suitable habitat, depending upon the alternatives chosen and the extent of their implementation over time. No current and reasonably foreseeable future projects are expected to have an adverse effect on Mount Lyell salamanders.

Northwestern pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata marmorata) and
Southwestern pond turtle (Clemmys marmorata pallida)

Status: Federal species of concern; California species of special concern. Cumulative effects that could have large-scale benefits to western pond turtle habitat include regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS) and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS). These beneficial effects would be augmented by restoration of large areas of riparian and wetland habitats in Yosemite Valley under this alternative. The Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS) would directly affect a small area of habitat suitable for the western pond turtle. Overall, cumulative effects on the western pond turtle would be minor and beneficial. This benefit would largely result from implementation of regional and parkwide planning that would protect habitat for western pond turtles and restoration of suitable habitat in Yosemite Valley under this alternative.

Harlequin duck (Histrionicus histrionicus)

Status: Federal species of concern; California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the harlequin duck. This alternative would restore or protect about 100 acres of suitable riparian and aquatic habitat. These actions could have long-term, moderate to major, beneficial effects on suitable habitat for the harlequin ducks, depending on the alternatives chosen and the extent of their implementation over time.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could have adverse effects on suitable habitat for the harlequin duck include the Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS) and the Incline Road Construction, Foresta Road Bridge to South Fork (Mariposa Co.) project. There are no known populations of harlequin duck in these areas.

Overall, there would be a moderate, beneficial, cumulative impact on the harlequin duck, based on the potential protection of suitable habitat offered by regional plans, combined with restoration of suitable habitat provided under this alternative. The projects with a possible adverse impact on harlequin duck habitat would affect a relatively small area of habitat compared to projects with potential beneficial impacts.

Cooper’s hawk (Accipiter cooperi)

Status: California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) would improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the Cooper’s hawk. These regional plans would have a long-term, moderate to major, beneficial effect on the Cooper’s hawk, depending on the alternatives chosen and the extent of their implementation over time. These beneficial effects would be augmented by restoration of habitats in Yosemite Valley under this alternative. Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could adversely affect suitable habitat for the Cooper’s hawk include the Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project; Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS); Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.); El Portal Road Improvement Project (NPS); Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.); and Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.). Development of a parking area at Taft Toe under this alternative would also cause adverse effects due to the removal of forest habitat, as would development in El Portal and Foresta.

The overall cumulative impact on Cooper’s hawks would be moderate and beneficial, based primarily on implementation of wide-ranging plans that would protect large areas of the Sierra Nevada in combination with restoration of habitats in Yosemite Valley under this alternative. In comparison, adverse effects resulting from individual projects and new development under this alternative would be localized in relatively small areas.

Northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)

Status: Federal species of concern; California species of special concern. Projects likely to have a beneficial effect on northern goshawk habitat include the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), Wilderness Management Plan Update (NPS), and U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness. Implementation of these plans would have a moderate to major effect on northern goshawks, depending upon the alternatives chosen and the extent of their implementation over time.

Projects that could have an adverse effect on northern goshawk habitat include the Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project, Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.), and the Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.). Minor expansion of facilities at entrance stations to the park under this alternative could affect northern goshawk habitat. These projects, however, would affect relatively small areas of habitat.

Overall, cumulative impacts on the northern goshawk would be long-term, moderate, and beneficial, primarily due to the potential protection of wide areas of habitat through implementation of regional land management plans as compared to adverse effects on small, localized areas of habitat from individual projects (including effects from this alternative).

Sharp-shinned hawk (Accipiter striatus)

Status: California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of wide areas of suitable habitat for the sharp-shinned hawk. A mix of habitats favorable to sharp-shinned hawks would be restored in Yosemite Valley under this alternative, but such benefits would be diminished by the development of the Taft Toe visitor/transit center, which would affect forest habitat. These regional plans, in combination with this alternative, would have a long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial effect on the sharp-shinned hawk, depending on the alternatives chosen and the extent of their implementation over time. This effect is of lower intensity than it is for other Accipiter species because sharp-shinned hawks do not commonly nest in the Sierra Nevada.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could adversely affect suitable habitat for the sharp-shinned hawks include the Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project; Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS); Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.); El Portal Road Improvement (NPS); Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.); and Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.). Under this alternative, some habitat would be adversely affected, including habitat in Wawona and El Portal.

Overall cumulative impacts on sharp-shinned hawks would be moderate and beneficial, based primarily on implementation of plans that would protect large areas of the Sierra Nevada and restoration of diverse habitats in Yosemite Valley under this alternative. In comparison, adverse effects resulting from individual projects would be localized in relatively small areas.

Golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)

Status: California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for golden eagles. These regional plans would have a long-term, moderate, beneficial effect on golden eagles. Restoration of habitats in Yosemite Valley under this alternative would likewise benefit golden eagles.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could have an adverse impact on golden eagles include the Rio Mesa Area Plan (Madera Co.); University of California, Merced Campus (Merced Co.); Buildout of City of Merced, General Plan; and the Tioga Inn, Lee Vining (Mono Co.). These projects, in total, would have a minor, adverse effect on golden eagles because of the limited area they would affect.

Overall cumulative effects on golden eagles would be minor and beneficial, based primarily on the protection of habitat provided by implementation of land management plans that would cover large areas of the Sierra Nevada, in combination with restoration of habitats in Yosemite Valley due to this alternative. There would be a limited area of effect caused by projects that have an adverse impact on golden eagles.

Merlin (Falco columbarius)

Status: California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of large areas of suitable habitat for the merlin. These regional plans would have a long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial effect on the merlin, depending on the alternatives chosen and the extent of their implementation over time. Merlin habitat would be further supplemented by restoration of meadow and riparian habitats in Yosemite Valley, as would occur under this alternative.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could adversely affect merlins include the Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS); Rio Mesa Area Plan (Madera Co.); Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.); University of California, Merced Campus (Merced Co.); and Buildout of City of Merced, General Plan. These projects could have a minor, adverse effect on merlins, depending on the alternatives chosen and the extent of their implementation over time. Under this alternative, habitat could be adversely affected by development in Foresta and El Portal, but the areas affected would be small, less suitable areas of habitat.

Overall cumulative effects would be moderate and beneficial, based primarily on the implementation of land management plans that could affect large areas of the Sierra Nevada in combination with restoration of habitats in Yosemite Valley that would occur under this alternative.

Prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus)

Status: California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the prairie falcon. These actions could have long-term, moderate to major, beneficial effects on prairie falcon habitat, depending upon the alternatives chosen and the extent of their implementation over time. A further benefit to this species would result from restoration of habitats in Yosemite Valley, as would occur under this alternative.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could have an adverse effect on prairie falcons include the Rio Mesa Area Plan (Madera Co.); University of California, Merced Campus (Merced Co.); Buildout of City of Merced, General Plan; and Tioga Inn, Lee Vining (Mono Co.). These projects, in total, would have a minor, adverse effect on prairie falcons because of the limited area they would affect.

Overall cumulative effects on prairie falcons would be moderate and beneficial, based primarily on the protection of habitat resulting from implementation of land management plans that would cover large areas of the Sierra Nevada in combination with restoration of Yosemite Valley habitats under this alternative. In comparison, projects that have an adverse effect on prairie falcons would affect a limited area.

Long-eared owl (Asio otus)

Status: California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for long-eared owls. These regional plans would have a long-term, moderate, beneficial effect on long-eared owls, depending on the alternatives chosen and the extent of their implementation over time. Restoration of extensive riparian habitats in Yosemite Valley that would occur under this alternative would provide additional benefit to long-eared owls.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could adversely affect suitable habitat for long-eared owls include the Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS); Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.); El Portal Road Improvement Project (NPS); and Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.). Development of housing and administrative facilities in El Portal under this alternative could affect some areas of potential habitat.

The overall cumulative impacts on long-eared owls would be minor and beneficial, based primarily on the protection of habitat provided by implementation of wide-ranging land management plans that would cover large areas of the Sierra Nevada and restoration of large areas of riparian habitat in Yosemite Valley from implementation of this alternative. A limited area would be affected by projects that have an adverse impact on long-eared owls.

Yellow warbler (Dendroica petechia)

Status: California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of large areas of suitable habitat for the yellow warbler. These regional plans would have a long-term, moderate to major, beneficial effect on the yellow warbler, depending on the alternatives chosen and the extent of their implementation over time. Under this alternative, extensive areas of riparian habitat would be restored, thus providing high-quality habitat for yellow warblers. If stables are removed from Yosemite Valley, this would also benefit yellow warblers by reducing brown-headed cowbird parasitism.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects with the potential adversely affect yellow warblers include the Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project, Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS), and the Yosemite West Rezone of 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.). Development in El Portal, Wawona, and Foresta that would occur under this alternative would affect yellow warbler habitat. These projects would have a minor, adverse effect because the affected areas are generally lower quality habitat for yellow warblers; the affected areas are limited; and large areas of suitable, unaffected habitat would continue to exist in surrounding areas.

Overall cumulative effects on yellow warblers would be moderate and beneficial, based primarily on the protection of large areas of high-quality habitat resulting from implementation of regional land management plans that would cover large areas of the Sierra Nevada and restoration of large areas of high quality riparian habitat in Yosemite Valley from this alternative. There would be a limited area of impact on lower-quality habitat caused by projects that would adversely affect yellow warblers.

Mount Lyell shrew (Sorex lyelli)

Status: Federal species of concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), the Wilderness Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the Mount Lyell shrew. These regional plans would have a long-term, minor, beneficial effect on suitable habitat for the Mount Lyell shrew. Possible development at Tioga Pass, the only area of potential effect, would have a negligible impact on Mount Lyell shrews. No current and reasonably foreseeable future projects are expected to have an adverse effect on this species, therefore, overall impact from this alternative combined with current and reasonably foreseeable future projects would be minor and beneficial.

Pallid bat (Antrozous pallidus)

Status: California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration, U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the pallid bat. These regional plans would have a long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial effect on the pallid bat, depending on the alternatives chosen and the extent of their implementation over time. Restoration of large areas of riparian, meadow, and California black oak habitats that would occur under this alternative would further benefit pallid bats by providing important foraging habitat.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could adversely affect suitable habitat for the pallid bat include the Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project; Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS); Yosemite Motels Expansion El Portal (Mariposa Co.); El Portal Road Improvement Project (NPS); Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.); and Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.). New development that would occur at Foresta and El Portal under this alternative could affect pallid bats. Development of the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center under this alternative would affect an area of forest habitat that could be used by pallid bats.

Overall, there would be a minor, beneficial, cumulative impact on the pallid bat, based on the potential protection of suitable habitat provided by regional plans and restoration of diverse habitats in Yosemite Valley under this alternative. The projects with a possible adverse effect on the pallid bat, including new development under this alternative, would affect a relatively small area of habitat compared to projects with potential beneficial effects.

Townsend’s big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii townsendii)

Status: California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of large areas of suitable habitat for the Townsend’s big-eared bat. These regional plans would have a long-term, minor to moderate, beneficial effect on the Townsend’s big-eared bat, depending on the alternatives chosen and the extent of their implementation over time. Such benefits would be augmented under this alternative through restoration of large areas of riparian, meadow, and California black oak habitats in Yosemite Valley. These areas are important foraging areas for Townsend’s big-eared bats.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could adversely effects on suitable habitat for Townsend’s big-eared bats include the Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project; Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS); Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.); El Portal Road Improvement Project (NPS); Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.); and Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.). New development at El Portal and Foresta could affect small areas of suitable habitat. Development of parking at Taft Toe could affect a block of forest habitat in Yosemite Valley that could be used by foraging big-eared bats.

Overall, there would be a minor, beneficial, cumulative impact on Townsend’s big-eared bat, based on the potential protection of suitable habitat through implementation of regional plans as well as restoration of Yosemite Valley habitats under this alternative. The projects with possible adverse impacts on the Townsend’s big-eared bat would affect a relatively small area of marginal habitat compared to projects with potential beneficial impacts.

Spotted bat (Euderma maculatum)

Status: Federal species of concern; California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the spotted bat. These actions have the potential for long-term, moderate to major, beneficial effects on suitable habitat, depending on the alternatives chosen for implementation and the extent of their implementation over time. Such benefits would be augmented by restoration of large areas of riparian and meadow habitats that would occur under this alternative. These habitats are important foraging areas for spotted bats.

Projects that could adversely affect suitable habitat for the spotted bat include the Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS); El Portal Road Improvement Project (NPS); Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.); and Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.); Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project; and Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.). New development at Wawona and El Portal would affect potential spotted bat habitat. Development of parking at Taft Toe would affect an area of forest, but such habitat is not preferred by spotted bats. Adverse cumulative impacts on spotted bats would be minor, based on the relatively limited area of effect and the type of habitat affected.

In total, there would be a moderate, beneficial impact on the spotted bat, based primarily on the potential protection of large areas of suitable habitat from regional plans in combination with restoration of important habitats in Yosemite Valley that would occur under this alternative. The projects with the potential to result in adverse impacts on the spotted bat would affect a relatively small area of less suitable habitat compared to projects with potential beneficial effects.

Small-footed myotis bat (Myotis ciliolabrum)

Status: Federal species of concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the small-footed myotis bat. These actions could have long-term, moderate to major, beneficial effects on suitable habitat depending upon the alternatives chosen for implementation and the extent of their implementation over time. Further benefits would occur under this alternative from restoration of large areas of riparian and meadow habitats in Yosemite Valley, which are important foraging habitat for the small-footed myotis bat.

Projects that could have adversely affect suitable habitat for the small-footed myotis bat include the Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS); Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.); El Portal Road Improvement Project (NPS); Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.); and Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.). Additional adverse impacts would occur from new development in El Portal and Foresta under this alternative. Development at Taft Toe would affect an area of forest habitat, although such habitat is less preferred by this species.

In total, cumulative impacts on the small-footed myotis bat would be moderate and beneficial, based primarily on implementation of large-scale regional land plans that could protect wide areas of habitat and restoration of important habitats in Yosemite Valley under this alternative. In comparison, projects with potential adverse impacts would affect relatively small areas of habitat.

Long-eared myotis bat (Myotis evotis)

Status: Federal species of concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the long-eared myotis bat. These actions could have long-term, moderate to major, beneficial effects on suitable habitat, depending on the alternatives chosen for implementation and the extent of their implementation over time. Further benefits would occur under this alternative from restoration of large areas of riparian and meadow habitats in Yosemite Valley, which are important foraging areas for long-eared myotis bats.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could adversely affect suitable habitat for the long-eared myotis bat include the Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS); Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.); El Portal Road Improvement Project (NPS); Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project; Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.); and Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.). Additional adverse impacts would occur from new development in El Portal and Foresta under this alternative. Development of the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center would affect an area of forest that could be foraging habitat for long-eared myotis bats.

Overall, there would be a moderate, beneficial, cumulative impact on long-eared myotis bats under this alternative, based on the potential protection of suitable habitat resulting from implementation of regional plans in combination with restoration of important habitats in Yosemite Valley. The projects with the potential to have adverse impacts on the long-eared myotis bat would affect a relatively small area of habitat compared to projects with potential beneficial impacts.

Fringed myotis bat (Myotis thysanodes)

Status: Federal species of concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS); and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the fringed myotis bat. These actions could have long-term, moderate to major, beneficial effects on suitable habitat, depending on the alternatives chosen for implementation and the extent of their implementation over time. Further beneficial effects would be provided by restoration of large areas of riparian and meadow habitats in Yosemite Valley that would occur under this alternative. Such areas are important foraging habitat for fringed myotis bats.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could adversely affect suitable habitat for fringed myotis bats include the Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS); Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.); El Portal Road Improvement Project (NPS); Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project; Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.); and Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.). Additional adverse impacts would occur from new development in El Portal and Foresta under this alternative. Development of the Taft Toe Visitor/Transit Center would affect an area of forest that could be foraging habitat for fringed myotis bats.

Overall, there would be a moderate, beneficial, cumulative impact on the fringed myotis bat, based on the potential protection of suitable habitat provided by wide-reaching regional plans coupled with actions under this alternative that would restore important habitats in Yosemite Valley. The projects with possible adverse impacts on the fringed myotis bat would affect a relatively small area of habitat compared to projects with potential beneficial impacts.

Long-legged myotis bat (Myotis volans)

Status: Federal species of concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the long-legged myotis bat. These actions could have long-term, moderate to major, beneficial effects on suitable habitat, depending on the alternatives chosen for implementation and the extent of their implementation over time. Further beneficial effects would result from restoration of large areas of riparian and meadow habitats in Yosemite Valley that would occur under this alternative. Such areas are important foraging habitat for long-legged myotis bats.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could adversely affect suitable habitat for the long-legged myotis bat include the Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS); Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.); El Portal Road Improvement Project (NPS); Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project; Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.); and Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.). Additional adverse impacts would occur from new development in El Portal and Foresta under this alternative. Development of parking at Taft Toe would remove an area of forest that could be foraging habitat for long-legged myotis bats.

Overall, there would be a moderate, beneficial, cumulative impact on the long-legged myotis bat, based on the potential protection of suitable habitat provided by implementation of regional plans in combination with restoration of important habitats in Yosemite Valley under this alternative. The projects with the potential to have adverse impacts on the spotted bat would affect a relatively small area of habitat compared to projects with potential beneficial impacts.

Yuma myotis bat (Myotis yumanensis)

Status: Federal species of concern; California species of concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the Yuma myotis bat. These actions could have long-term, moderate to major, beneficial effects on suitable habitat, depending upon the alternatives chosen for implementation and the extent of their implementation over time. Actions under this alternative would also benefit Yuma myotis bats by restoring large areas of meadow and riparian habitats in Yosemite Valley, which are important foraging areas for this species.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could adversely affect suitable habitat for the Yuma myotis bat include the Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS); Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.); El Portal Road Improvement Project (NPS); Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project; Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.); and Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.). Additional adverse impacts would occur from new development in El Portal and Foresta under this alternative. Development of parking at Taft Toe would affect an area of forest, but such habitat is not preferred by Yuma myotis bats.

Overall, there would be a moderate, beneficial, cumulative impact on the Yuma myotis bat, based on the potential protection of suitable habitat from implementation of regional plans augmented by restoration of important habitats in Yosemite Valley by this alternative. The projects with a possible adverse effect on Yuma myotis bats would affect a relatively small area of habitat compared to projects with potential beneficial effects.

Greater western mastiff bat (Eumops perotis californicus)

Status: Federal species of concern; California species of concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of large areas of suitable habitat for the greater western mastiff bat. These actions could have long-term, moderate to major, beneficial effects on suitable habitat, depending on the alternatives chosen for implementation and the extent of their implementation over time. This alternative would further benefit the greater western mastiff bat through the restoration of large areas of meadow and riparian habitats that are important foraging areas for this species.

Current and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could have adverse effects on suitable habitat for the greater western mastiff bat include the Yosemite View Parcel Land Exchange (NPS); Yosemite Motels Expansion, El Portal (Mariposa Co.); El Portal Road Improvements Project (NPS); Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project; Yosemite West Rezone for 55 Acres (Mariposa Co.); and Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.). Additional adverse impacts would result from new development in El Portal and Foresta under this alternative, although no suitable roosting habitat (cliffs) is nearby these areas.

Overall, there would be a moderate, beneficial, cumulative impact on the greater western mastiff bat, based on the potential protection of suitable habitat provided by implementation of regional plans in combination with restoration of important habitats in Yosemite Valley that would occur under this alternative. The projects with the potential to result in adverse impacts on the greater western mastiff bat would affect a relatively small area of habitat compared to projects with potential beneficial impacts.

Sierra Nevada snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus tahoensis)

Status: Federal species of concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for snowshoe hares. These actions could have long-term, moderate to major, beneficial effects on suitable habitat, depending on the alternatives chosen for implementation and the extent of their implementation over time.

Present and reasonably foreseeable future projects that could have adverse effects on suitable habitat for snowshoe hares include Evergreen Lodge Expansion (Tuolumne Co.) and Hazel Green Ranch (Mariposa Co.) project. The Evergreen Lodge Expansion would primarily affect forest habitat. New development at Hazel Green Ranch that would occur under this alternative could affect snowshoe hare habitat, although the apparent scarcity of this species makes such an impact unlikely. Minor expansion of park entrance stations under this alternative would affect small areas of habitat.

Overall, there would be a minor and beneficial cumulative impact on snowshoe hares, based on the potential protection of suitable habitat from implementation of regional plans. The projects with the potential adverse impacts on snowshoe hares would affect a relatively small area of habitat compared to projects with potential beneficial impacts.

White-tailed hare (Lepus townsendii)

Status: California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the white-tailed hare. These regional plans would have a long-term, moderate, beneficial cumulative effect on the white-tailed hare. No current and reasonably foreseeable future projects are expected to have an adverse effect on white-tailed hares, including the possible minor expansion of Tioga Pass Entrance, under this alternative.

Sierra Nevada mountain beaver (Aplodontia rufa californica)

Status: Federal species of concern; California species of special concern. Regional and parkwide planning efforts such as the Sierra Nevada Framework for Conservation and Collaboration (USFS), U.S. Forest Service plans for adjacent wilderness, the Fire Management Plan Update (NPS), and the Merced Wild and Scenic River Comprehensive Management Plan (NPS) could improve the size, integrity, and connectivity of suitable habitat for the mountain beaver. These regional plans would have a long-term, moderate, beneficial cumulative effect on suitable habitat for the mountain beaver. No current or reasonably foreseeable future projects are expected to have an adverse effect on Sierra Nevada mountain beaver, including actions under this alternative.