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OD~704 southern part of the areas. Recently, claims have been staked on the north end. About 54% of the area is estimated as high or moderate potential for locatable minerals, while about 10% has a high or moderate potential for leasable minerals. The Bureau of Mines reports development of uranium resources and silver and base metal resources will be forgone if the eastern side of the WSA is designated wilderness. LEASES: None has been identified. CLAIMS: The Forest Service indicates 140 mining claims exist in or close to the study area. These occur in the southern, northern and eastern sides of the area. Many of these private rights have been avoided with minor boundary adjustments. TIMBER: Timberline occurs at about 11,800 feet with alpine vegetation, rock outcrops, and talus slopes above this elevation. Vegetation below timberline is generally Engelmann spruce on the north slopes with Douglas fir on the south slopes. other trees include aspen, subalpine fir, ponderosa pine and lodgepole pine. Much of the timber is mature or approaching maturity. Approximately 63% of the area is capable of producing regulated timber products. Early logging occurred in the late 1800's or early 1900's for railroad ties, mine props, house logs, and bridge timbers. Because of this and a wildfire, the Forest Service considers this area presently understocked in seedlings, saplings and pole-sized stands. The western and southern ends of the WSA can contribute significantly to local firewood demands. GRAZING: The area contains parts of seven livestock allotments having a permitted use of 948 animal unit months per year. Range improvements include a few drift fences. RECREATION: The southern part of the area is very popular with jeepers. Day hikes are also popular with people from Colorado Springs. Some residents have expressed concern about overuse if this area is designated wilderness. If wise boundaries are established the Forest Service can develop trailheads to provide toilet facilities and garbage cans, as well as appropriate information on low-impact camping. All of this can help mitigate the impact of extensive use on the area. OTHER: The sights and sounds of the highway and railroad development along the Arkansas River significantly diminish the wilderness characteristics on the west end of the WSA and the boundary is drawn to avoid this.