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OOGQ27 / Natural Resources The protection of natural ecosystems and their endemic flora and fauna would be insured. Activities of man that alter natural systems, destroy habitat and lead to the ultimate extinction of natural life forms will be minimized. Such protection will also permit the dynamic processes of evolution to occur at natural rates to perpetuate the ecological bal- ances in all life systems. The alpine tundra zone is the most signifi- cant ecosystem within the park. Since it is very sensitive to outside disturbance and takes many years to reCover from abuse, wilderness designation will help to assure its perpetuation. Wilderness designation will also help attain the objectives of resource management identified in the master plan - restoration of the native ecosystems. The wolf, bison, and grizzly are gone, but bighorn sheep, black bear, and marten, although elusive and rarely seen, still inhabit remote sections of the park. The elk, reintroduced in 1913-14, is once again common. All other species of small mammals, birds and fish which are native to the park are represented, except for the otter and the native greenback trout which will be restored to their former ranges. Wilderness designation through habitat protection will help to assure stable natural populations of plant and animal species. Historic Resources The National Register of Historic Places was consulted and there are no properties listed within the proposed wilderness boundaries. The Ute Trail, however, which passes from Beaver Meadows to Milner Pass, has been nominated to the National Register. Other historic sites in the process of nomination are the Fern Lake Lodge and Hallett Creek Cabin in Unit 4 and the Old Dutchtown site in Unit 2. Wilderness designation will help to aSsure perpetuation of these historic resources by pre- cluding development and by preservation of the historic setting. Historic Structures Reports are programmed for the Fern Lake Lodge and the Hallett Creek Cabin. Maintenance costs of these historic struc- tures will increase as a result of wilderness designation precluding the use of motorized equipment. Since a comprehensive archeological survey has not been completed for the park, the total effect of wilderness designation on this cultural resource is unknown. Wilderness designation will provide additional protection for the sites by precluding construction disturbance from development of permanent facilities. Since no new trails are planned, the only possible disturbance of archeological sites would be through visitor impact at designated campsites. 23