2021-05-03_REVISION - M1997054 (6)

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Issues Analysis Chapter 3 3.8. VISUAL RESOURCES Issue 1: What is the extent of impact upon sensitive visual receptors resulting from the change in landforms during operations and post-mining? 3.8.1. Affected Environment The study area for visual resources encompasses the viewshed specific to Alternative A and Alternative C and the CESA includes an area within 15 miles of the Sale Area. This geographic region was selected as the CESA because beyond 15 miles from the proposed Sale Area, the proposed project facilities and excavation site would either not be visible or would be considered as a minor element in the visual landscape. Scenic quality is the measure of the visual appeal of a unit of land. Section 102(a) of the FLPMA (1976), states that “…the public lands are to be managed in a manner that would protect the quality of scientific, scenic, historical, ecological, environmental, air and atmospheric, water resource, and archeological values.” Section 103(c) identifies “scenic values” as one of the resources for which public land should be managed. Section 201(a) states that “the Secretary shall prepare and maintain on a continuing basis an inventory of all public lands and their resources and other values (including scenic values)…”. Furthermore, Section 101(b) of the National Environmental Policy Act requires that measures be taken to ensure that aesthetically pleasing surroundings be retained for all Americans. A visual resource inventory (VRI) was conducted for the Sale Area in 2015. The inventory revealed that visual resources along the Arkansas River corridor in Bighorn Sheep Canyon are dominated by the river as well as rocky outcrops and steep valley walls, with a variety of vegetation and colors. The river canyon has high recreation visitation that is dependent upon intact landscapes and natural scenery. The public land in the canyon is highly visible from Highway 50, a major travel corridor for residents and visitors. The inventory found that scenic quality is important for rural residents’ quality of life. Sensitivity to change among the local residents is considered high. The inventory also identified the presence of contrasts with the natural environment such as ranches, homes, recreation facilities, power lines, and active mines. Despite the non-natural features the overall landscape was still found to have a VRI Class II. The VRI was done at a coarse office wide scale, and described below. When looking at the specific Sale Area, the existing quarry beyond the railroad line is evident with its conical shaped stockpiles, earthen berm, and horizontal quarry bench cuts. Rail cars are frequently parked on the tracks. The vegetation changes from sparse in the foreground to uniform pinyon and juniper woodlands in the background. Structures in the mine are visible from the road. Besides the river corridor, which is immediately adjacent to the Highway, these elements tend to dominate the view in this area. Parkdale Quarry Expansion Project Final Environmental Impact Statement 3-62