Draft Environmental Assessment - Desert National Wildlife Refuge/Dove, Chukar, and Quail Hunt Opening
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Draft Environmental Assessment
Desert National Wildlife Refuge/Dove, Chukar, and Quail Hunt
Opening
Date: April 2021
This Environmental Assessment (EA) is being prepared to evaluate the effects associated with
the Proposed Action. It complies with the National Environmental Policy Act following Council
on Environmental Quality regulations (40 CFR 1500-1509) and Department of the Interior (43
CFR 46; 516 DM 8) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (550 FW 3) regulations and policies. The
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requires examination of the effects of Proposed
Actions on the natural and human environment.
Proposed Action
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is proposing to open hunting opportunities for dove,
chukar and quail on Desert National Wildlife Refuge (NWR or Refuge) under the refuge’s Final
Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement (CCP/EIS) (USFWS
2009). In 2009, the Service signed a Record of Decision for the Final CCP/EIS for the Desert NWR
Complex (USFWS 2009), which includes the Desert, Ash Meadows, Moapa, and Pahranagat
NWRs. This EA is tiered from the 2009 CCP/EIS and the Minor Amendment to the CCP (USFWS
2021a). The Service proposes to open 8,586 acres of the Sitting Dog Unit of Desert NWR to
dove, chukar and quail hunting.
Desert NWR encompasses approximately 1.6 million acres. The area proposed to be opened for
dove, chukar and quail hunting is approximately 8,586 acres on the northeastern corner of the
refuge. The hunt area would be accessible from the Visitor Center via Alamo Road from the
south. Alamo Road bisects the Sitting Dog Unit, crossing the refuge boundary into the
Pahranagat NWR, which abuts the entire eastern boundary of the Sitting Dog Unit. The entirety
of the Sitting Dog Unit is on publicly-accessible refuge lands and is not a part of the aerial
bombing and gunnery range known as the Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR) used by
Nellis Air Force Base (Figure 1).Figure 1. Location of Dove, Chukar and Quail Hunting on Desert National Wildlife Refuge. Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 2
A proposed action may evolve during the NEPA process as the agency refines its proposal and gathers feedback from the public, tribes, and other agencies. Therefore, the final proposed action may be different from the original. The proposed action will be finalized after the public comment period for the EA. Background National wildlife refuges are guided by the mission and goals of the National Wildlife Refuge System (NWRS), the purposes of an individual refuge, Service policy, and laws and international treaties. Relevant guidance includes the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, Refuge Recreation Act of 1962, and selected portions of the Code of Federal Regulations and Fish and Wildlife Service Manual. Desert National Wildlife Range was established by Executive Order Number 7373 of President Franklin D. Roosevelt on May 20, 1936. Originally named the Desert Game Range and under the joint administration of the Fish and Wildlife Service and the Bureau of Land Management, it contained a total of 2,250,000 acres, including lands both north and south of U.S. Highway 95. Public Land Order 4079, issued on August 26, 1966, and corrected on September 23, 1966, revoked Executive Order 7373, changed the name to Desert National Wildlife Range, reduced its size to 1,588,000 acres, and transferred sole administration to the Fish and Wildlife Service. Between 1935 and 1989, an additional 760 acres in the vicinity of Corn Creek were acquired under various authorities, including the Migratory Bird Conservation Act, Endangered Species Act and Refuge Recreation Act.In 2002, the Clark County Conservation of Public Land and Natural Resources Act of 2002 (PL 107–282) administratively transferred 26,433 acres of BLM land adjacent to Desert NWR’s east boundary to the Service. Finally, the Lincoln County Conservation, Recreation, and Development Act of 2004 (PL 108–424) transferred 8,503 acres of BLM-administered lands to the Service. This land, which contains the Sitting Dog Unit, is located at the northeastern boundary of the Desert NWR and the western boundary of Pahranagat NWR. Purposes for which Desert NWR was established and the associated legislation are: • For all refuge lands, the purpose is "… for the protection, enhancement, and maintenance of wildlife resources, including bighorn sheep." Public Land Order 4079, dated August 31, 1966. • For lands acquired under 16 USC 715d (Migratory Bird Conservation Act), an additional purpose is: “… for its use as an inviolate sanctuary, or for any other management purpose, for migratory birds…” Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 3
• For lands acquired under 16 U.S.C. § 1534 (Endangered Species Act of 1973), an additional
purpose is "…to conserve (a) fish or wildlife which are listed as endangered species or
threatened species. or (b) plants."
• For lands acquired under 16 U.S.C. § 460k-4601 (Refuge Recreation Act), an additional
purpose is "…suitable for - (1) incidental fish and wildlife-oriented recreational development, (2)
the protection of natural resources, (3) the conservation of endangered species or threatened
species…”
The mission of the NWRS, as outlined by the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration
Act (NWRSAA), as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act (16 U.S.C.
668dd et seq.), is
“... to administer a national network of lands and waters for the conservation,
management and, where appropriate, restoration of the fish, wildlife, and plant resources
and their habitats within the United States for the benefit of present and future
generations of Americans.”
Additionally, the NWRSAA mandates the Secretary of the Interior in administering the NWRS
(16 U.S.C. 668dd(a)(4)) to:
· Provide for the conservation of fish, wildlife and plants and their habitats within the
NWRS;
· Ensure that the biological integrity, diversity and environmental health of the NWRS are
maintained for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans;
· Ensure that the mission of the NWRS described at 16 U.S.C. 668dd(a)(2) and the
purposes of each refuge are carried out;
· Ensure effective coordination, interaction, and cooperation with owners of land
adjoining refuges and the fish and wildlife agency of the states in which the units of the
NWRS are located;
· Assist in the maintenance of adequate water quantity and water quality to fulfill the
mission of the NWRS and the purposes of each refuge;
· Recognize compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general public
uses of the NWRS through which the American public can develop an appreciation for
fish and wildlife;
· Ensure that opportunities are provided within the NWRS for compatible wildlife-
dependent recreational uses; and
· Monitor the status and trends of fish, wildlife, and plants in each refuge.
Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 4Purpose and Need for the Action The purpose of this Proposed Action is to provide a quality wildlife-oriented recreational experience on Desert NWR conducted within the hunting regulations established annually by the State of Nevada. The need of the Proposed Action is to meet the Service’s priorities and mandates as outlined by the NWRSAA to “recognize compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses as the priority general uses of the NWRS” and “ensure that opportunities are provided within the NWRS for compatible wildlife-dependent recreational uses.” 16 U.S.C. 668dd (a) (4). The objectives of migratory bird (dove) and upland game bird (quail) hunting on Desert NWR are consistent with the mission of the NWRS; and natural resources and visitor services goals for the refuge can be found in the CCP for Desert NWR Complex (USFWS 2009). Alternatives ALTERNATIVE A – CURRENT MANAGEMENT – NO ACTION ALTERNATIVE Under the No Action Alternative, the Service would not open 8,586 acres in the northeast portion of the Desert NWR to dove, chukar and quail hunting. The desert bighorn sheep hunt on other designated areas of the refuge would continue per state regulations and Service refuge-specific regulations. Over 1 million acres of the Desert NWR is currently open to desert bighorn sheep hunting. The bighorn sheep hunt is regulated by the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW 2020a). The publicly accessible Refuge lands are open for a month-long season, while Refuge lands that the NTTR overlies are open for a two-week bighorn sheep hunt. The majority of the refuge will continue to be open to bighorn sheep hunting. The Service manages the Refuge’s land, habitat and facilities. Opportunities for other visitor activities would continue to include wildlife viewing, photography, hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, recreational pack/saddle stock, camping, and the existing desert bighorn sheep hunting program. Except for the NTTR overlay, visitation can occur anywhere on the Refuge. No hunting is permitted around the Corn Creek visitor center. Detailed descriptions of the current management of visitor services at Desert NWR are provided in the refuge’s Hunting Plan for desert bighorn sheep (Sport Hunting Decision Document Package) (USFWS 1988) and Final CCP/EIS for the Desert NWR Complex (USFWS 2009). Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 5
ALTERNATIVE B – DOVE, CHUKAR, AND QUAIL HUNTING – PROPOSED ACTION
ALTERNATIVE
Under the Proposed Action Alternative, the Service would open the approximately 8,586-acre
Sitting Dog Unit of Desert NWR to the hunting of mourning dove (Zenaida macroura) and white-
winged dove (Z. asiatica), chukar (Alectoris chukar), and Gambel’s quail (Callipepla gambelii).
The Service has prepared a Hunt Plan (USFWS 2021b) describing the hunting opportunity
proposed at the Sitting Dog Unit of the refuge, which is summarized in this document as the
Proposed Action Alternative; the Hunt Plan is incorporated by reference.
The Service uses multiple methods to manage hunting and enforce hunting regulations, as
summarized below and described in detail in the Hunt Plan. Falconry is not allowed.
Hunter Permit Requirements: All hunters are required to possess a valid State of Nevada
hunting license and applicable hunting stamps (complete requirements are published at Nevada
Department of Wildlife Hunt Regulations.
Dove, chukar and quail hunting would occur primarily during the fall and winter following
NDOW hunt regulations and by the environmental conditions on the Refuge. Dove hunting
would be permitted daily during the state season—except starting on October 1, when dove
hunting is allowed on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays during the shooting hours specified
by NDOW regulations. Quail and chukar hunting would be allowed on Tuesdays, Thursdays and
Saturdays during the shooting hours specified by NDOW regulations. This hunt schedule is
consistent with the upland game hunting on the adjacent Pahranagat NWR. Station-Specific
Hunting Regulations (50 CFR § 32.47) and Public Access and Recreation Regulations (50 CFR §
26.34) pertain to hunting on the Refuge as of the date of the Refuge Hunt Plan. Under this
alternative, the Refuge law enforcement officers and/or state game wardens monitor the hunt
and conduct license, bag limit and access compliance checks. The new dove, chukar and quail
hunting areas overlap the bighorn sheep hunting acreage. Alternative B (the Proposed Action)
continues the existing desert bighorn sheep hunting program and offers increased public
hunting opportunities and fulfills the Service’s mandate under the NWRS Improvement Act of
1997.
Mitigation Measures to Avoid Conflicts:
Mitigation measures to avoid potential conflicts to natural and cultural resources are:
1. Dogs must be leashed and attended at all times except when used in association with a
legal hunt in designated areas.
2. All motorized vehicles are restricted to designated roads only and must be properly
licensed and street legal as required by state law. Operation of all-terrain vehicles, utility
Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 6terrain vehicles, four-wheelers and dirt bikes is prohibited. Visitors are asked to use
existing parking lots and pull-outs.
3. Under the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (16 U.S.C. 470aa), the disturbance of
archaeological or historical sites and the removal of artifacts are prohibited. The
excavation, disturbance, collection or purchase of historical, ethnological or
archaeological specimens or artifacts or mementos from the refuge is prohibited.
4. Dove, chukar, and quail hunting are prohibited within 300 feet of any guzzlers in the
Sitting Dog Unit.
The Proposed Action meets the Purpose and Need by expanding compatible wildlife-dependent
recreational opportunities for game bird hunting on up to 8,586 acres of refuge lands while
maintaining sustainable dove, chukar and quail populations.
This alternative offers increased opportunities for public hunting. The Service has determined
that Alternative B (the Hunt Plan) is compatible with the purposes of Desert NWR; the mission
of the NWRS; and meets the Service’s priorities and mandates as outlined by the NWRSAA (16
U.S.C. 668dd (a) (4)).
Affected Environment and Environmental Consequences
Affected resource categories organize this section. Each affected resource discusses both (1)
the existing environmental and socioeconomic baseline in the action area for each resource and
(2) the effects and impacts of the Proposed Action and any alternatives on each resource. The
effects and impacts of the Proposed Action considered here are changes to the human
environment, whether adverse or beneficial, that are reasonably foreseeable and have a
reasonably close causal relationship to the Proposed Action or alternatives. This EA includes the
written analyses of the environmental consequences on a resource only when their impacts
could be more than negligible and therefore considered an “affected resource.” Any resources
that will not be more than negligibly impacted by the action have been dismissed from further
analyses.
The refuge consists of approximately 1.6 million acres in Clark and Lincoln Counties, Nevada.
The proposed hunt area is approximately 8,586 acres at the northeastern corner of the Refuge
in Lincoln County (see Figure 1 above).
Desert NWR’s elevation ranges from 2,200 feet in the valley floors to nearly 10,000 feet in the
rugged mountains covering seven distinct life zones that host different plant and animal
communities. For more information regarding and the general characteristics of the refuge’s
environment, please see section 4.3 of the refuge’s Comprehensive Conservation Plan (USFWS
2009), which can be found here: Final Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental
Impact Statement for Desert National Wildlife Refuge Complex. For more information on the
Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 7environmental consequences of the Proposed Action, see section 5.3 of the CCP/EIS. Therefore, this EA tiers from the CCP/EIS and provides an additional specific analysis of the Proposed Action. The following resources either (1) do not exist within the project area or (2) would either not be affected or only negligibly affected by the Proposed Action: hydrology; water quality and contaminants; geology and soils; air quality; hazardous materials; social and economic environment. As such, these resources are not analyzed in this EA. NATURAL RESOURCES Species to Be Hunted – Dove, Chukar, and Quail Affected Environment Description of Relevant General Features of Affected Environment Desert NWR is one of the more than 560 national wildlife refuges of the USFWS National Wildlife Refuge System (Refuge System) and one of four refuges in the Desert NWR Complex. The refuge is located within the ancestral territory of the Newe and Nuwuvi people (see Map 1 in the 2009 CCP/EIS) and encompasses 1.6 million acres of rugged mountain ranges and panoramic valleys in Clark and Lincoln Counties. Desert NWR includes six distinct mountain ranges and varies in elevation from 2,515 to 9,911 feet. Broad gradients in elevation, temperature and precipitation give rise to seven life zones that support diverse plant and animal communities within the Mojave and Great Basin deserts ecosystems. Desert NWR is comprised of a variety of habitats. The Sitting Dog Unit includes primarily creosote bush-white bursage scrub, mixed desert shrub/scrub, and cliff or rock outcrop habitats. Because of the large variety of habitats present on the Refuge, many bird species use the Refuge for breeding, foraging, resting, and during migration periods, including various high- priority management bird species (USFWS 2009). See also Appendix H to the CCP/EIS (USFWS 2009). This diversity of vegetation provides quail with breeding (nesting) habitat, which provides abundant and diverse food items such as seeds, grains, leaves and other roughage; shelter from weather-related elements; water; and winter habitat, which provides similar food, escape, shelter, roosting and water needs. Description of Relevant Environmental Trends and Planned Actions Dove: Flyway and Regional Trends The mourning dove is one of the most widely distributed and abundant birds in North America (Droege and Sauer 1990). It can be found in a wide range of habitats, from urban areas to desert scrub. It is also the most important U.S. game bird in terms of numbers harvested. A 1991 survey indicated that the mourning dove provided about 9.5 million days of hunting recreation for 1.9 million people (USFWS and U.S. Bureau of Census 1993). The breeding range Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 8
of the mourning dove extends from the southern portions of the Canadian provinces throughout the continental United States into Mexico, the islands near Florida and Cuba, and scattered areas in Central America (Aldrich 1993). Although some mourning doves are non- migratory, most migrate south to winter in the U.S—from northern California to Connecticut— and south throughout most of Mexico and Central America to western Panama. Within the U.S., three areas contain breeding, migrating, and wintering mourning dove populations that are largely independent of each other (Kiel 1959). In 1960, three areas were established as separate management units: the Eastern management unit (EMU), Central management unit (CMU) and Western management unit (WMU). The WMU is comprised of seven western states, including Nevada and surrounding states (Seamans 2017). The two main tools used to manage mourning doves are an annual breeding population survey (known as the Mourning Dove Call-count Survey; Dolton 1993a, b) and harvest surveys. The Call-count Survey provides an annual index to population size and data for determining long- term trends in dove populations. State harvest surveys and the National Migratory Bird Harvest Information Program, begun in 1992, estimate dove harvest. State wildlife administrators use the information on population status and trends and harvest records in setting annual hunting regulations. Mourning dove populations in the WMU have declined a significant 2.2 percent annually during the 30 years from 1966 to 1995, as determined with annual call-count data from WMU states (Dolton 1995). California and Nevada experienced the greatest annual declines—3.5 percent and 3.9 percent, respectively—whereas lesser declines have occurred in all other WMU states (Dolton 1995). Harvest and number of hunters have declined along with population indices in the WMU. The causes of these declines are unknown; however, it is unlikely that hunting was solely responsible for the decline (USFWS 2003). There were 279 million mourning doves in the U.S. immediately before the 2016 hunting season (Seamans 2017). Estimates of absolute abundance are available since 2003 and indicate that there were approximately 249 million doves in the U.S. as of September 1, 2018 (Seamans 2019). Abundance (in millions of birds) varied among management units in 2018, with WMU 55.8 million birds (standard error=3.7). U.S. Breeding Bird Survey data suggested the abundance of mourning doves over the last 53 years has increased in the EMU and decreased in the CMU and WMU (Seamans 2019). Mourning dove abundance varied among U.S. management units. The Service’s preliminary estimates of mourning dove harvest in Nevada showed an increase from 16,000 (+/-32 percent) in 2017 to 21,400 (+/-56 percent) in 2018 (Raftovich et al. 2019). The WMU white-winged dove harvest total was estimated at 109,400+/-18 percent in 2017 and 110,800+/-21 percent in 2018 (Seamans 2019). In 2019, harvest and hunter participation at the management unit level in the Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 9
WMU were 1,060,200 ± 45,800 birds, 83,000 hunters, and 207,200 ± 8,700 days afield (Seamans 2020). Chukar The chukar is an upland gamebird in the pheasant family. Native to the Middle East and southern Asia, the chukar was brought as a game bird to North America, where it has thrived in some arid regions of the west. From late summer to early spring, chukars travel in coveys, but they may be hard to see as they range through the brush of steep desert canyons. Typically, chukars spend their time in small flocks of about 10 birds. Outside of the breeding season, they can be found in grassy fields and low-lying mountain valleys. They are often hunted by predatory mammals such as coyotes and bobcats in North America. Chukars can fly, although their short wings and relatively rotund body shape keep them on the ground most of the time. Even when disturbed, they prefer to run rather than fly. Chukar populations are significantly affected by weather patterns, particularly during the breeding season. As global climate change worsens, one of the impacts is on local weather patterns, including changes to the timing of seasonal events and an increase in extreme weather events such as storms. Chukars are omnivores, subsisting primarily on seeds but also various insects. The NDOW Game Division biologists conducted a series of chukar brood surveys across northern Nevada during July and August of 2020. These surveys are meant to provide upland game hunters with general information on chukar productivity in various areas, thereby offering suggestions of more promising mountain ranges to hunt. Overall, the statewide average production value of 1.7 chicks per adult is considered rather low. Lincoln County was not included in the brood surveys (NDOW 2020b). Quail: Regional Trends Gambel’s quail are not migratory, and their annual movements are typically less than 2 miles. While populations vary from year-to-year, they continue to thrive in their desert habitat. Although predators such as bobcats, roadrunners, coyotes and hawks, as well as human hunters, kill many birds, the major factor influencing their populations is the weather. Temperature and rainfall are the prime influences on quail populations. Populations rise and fall rapidly depending on the weather (NDOW 2020c). Habitat protection is key to maintaining healthy populations of Gambel’s quail. Wildlife water developments also help quail to sustain in small numbers during years of severe drought conditions (NDOW 2020c). Recent reports indicate that Gambel’s quail are numerous (Life history of Gambel's quail). According to the North American Breeding Bird Survey, populations appear to have been fairly stable between 1966 and 2014, possibly with a small decline (Sauer et al. 2014). It is difficult to estimate long-term trends because their year-to-year numbers are extremely variable. Partners in Flight estimates the global breeding population at 5.3 million, with 74 percent living in the U.S. and 26 percent in Mexico (PIF 2017). Gambel's Quail is a U.S.-Canada Stewardship species, Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 10
rates a 9 out of 20 on the Continental Concern Score, and is not on the 2014 State of the Birds Watch List (North American Bird Conservation Initiative 2014). Concerns over hunting’s impact led to strict bag limits and short or closed seasons by the 1950s. Efforts to increase quail numbers in the 1950s included trapping and transplanting birds, establishing refuges, and providing water sources. Research eventually showed that these efforts had little effect on populations, mostly responsive to the presence or absence of winter rains (Life history of Gambel's quail). Because annual population size fluctuates, long-term trends are difficult to ascertain. State and national call count data tabulated by the Breeding Bird Survey (Sauer et al. 2008; Gee et al. 2020) show no significant population change in this species between 1980 and 2007 (Gee et al. 2020). Gambel’s Quail Demography and Populations. Online at Gambel's quail species account. Gee et al. (2020) summarize the effects of hunting and human activity is as follows. Hunting is the only cause of quail mortality to receive serious study. Hunting mortality is inversely dependent on the density of a quail population, ranging from as low as 4 percent of the population in poor years to as high as 31 percent in “bumper years” (Gullion 1954a; Gallizioli and Webb 1958). Hunting quail with shotguns has been an important southwestern pursuit since territorial days (O'Connor 1939; Gullion 1956c). Because quail populations fluctuated widely, and because hunting mortality was thought to be additive to natural mortality, low populations tended to result in lower bag limits and shorter seasons. By the 1950s, daily bag limits were less than 10 in all U.S. states, and the season was often limited to a few days or weeks if not closed entirely. Restrictive hunting regulations were not relaxed until Swank and Gallizioli (1954) in Arizona—and later Campbell et al. (1973) in New Mexico—showed that quail population levels were almost entirely dependent on winter precipitation levels and hatching success. As research efforts intensified, it soon became apparent that limited hunting had little influence on population levels. One study in Arizona showed that no more than 25 percent of the population would be removed by fall hunting. The percentage of quail removed was proportional to the density of birds present. That hunting mortality was compensatory to natural mortality (Gallizioli 1965). Little or no effort is made to actively manage Gambel's quail. Although spring call counts and summer brood counts have been shown to predict fall population levels, these census techniques are usually used only for special studies. Most states have standardized seasons and determine hunt success and harvest levels through postseason hunt questionnaires. The only management activities intended to actively benefit Gambel's Quail are private feeding and watering stations for birds and cereal crops provision on a few state wildlife areas. The long- term effects of both these practices are unclear. The only land use practice that may significantly benefit this species is the restriction of livestock-grazing. Even these benefits appear less than for other game birds (Gee et al. 2020). Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 11
NDOW collected no quail harvest data after the 2018-2019 upland game season, and no formal monitoring was conducted for quail. Dove and other migratory birds, quail and other upland game hunting are allowed in designated areas of another refuge adjacent to Desert NWR’s northeastern boundary. Climate Change The environmental trends of wildlife in response to climate change are described in the Non- Target Wildlife and Aquatic Species section. Environmental Consequences Description of Affected Resource Dove, chukar and quail are not currently harvested on the Refuge. Impacts on Affected Resource Alternative A – No Action Impact on Hunted Species – Dove, chukar and quail. Under the No Action Alternative, the Service would not open the Desert NWR to dove, chukar and quail hunting. Desert NWR would remain closed to all hunting except desert bighorn sheep hunting. Therefore, the No Action Alternative would be expected to have no hunting-related mortalities of dove, chukar and quail. This No Action Alternative is expected to maintain current population trends for dove, chukar and quail and, therefore, may result in a slightly larger prey base for various predators than Alternative B. However, it is unknown if, or to what extent, predators take advantage of the prey base on the Sitting Dog Unit. Alternative B – Proposed Action Estimated Hunter Numbers (annually): 13 dove, 45 chukar and 45 quail hunters Estimated Take (annually): 32 doves; 59 chukars; 63 quails Under the Proposed Action, the Service would open the Sitting Dog Unit to dove, chukar and quail hunting. Hunting would affect the target game species, including mortality, wounding and disturbance (DeLong 2002). Hunting can alter behavior (e.g., foraging time), population structure, and wildlife distribution patterns (Cole and Knight 1990). The number of game killed would depend on hunting pressure (i.e., the number of hunters and days of effort) and hunter success rates. There appears to be an inverse relationship between the numbers of birds using an area and hunting intensity (DeLong 2002). In addition, hunting would result in injuries to animals that were hit, but not killed, or at least not immediately. Disturbance to wildlife can be reduced by the presence of adjacent areas where hunting does not occur, and birds and other wildlife can feed and rest relatively undisturbed. Sanctuaries or Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 12
non-hunt areas have been identified as the most common solution to disturbance problems
caused by hunting (Havera et al. 1992). For example, prolonged and extensive disturbances may
cause many waterfowl to leave disturbed areas and migrate elsewhere (Madsen 1995). Non-
hunt areas are important to minimize disturbance to birds and other wildlife to ensure their
continued use of the refuge.
The bighorn sheep hunt areas overlap the proposed dove, chukar and quail hunt opening of the
Sitting Dog Unit. The Sitting Dog Unit is also adjacent to Pahranagat NWR which is open to
upland game hunting.
The 2018-2019 daily bag limit for quail in Nevada is set at 10. For context, Nevada’s 10-year
average take per day is 1.3 birds per hunter. Desert NWR is not open to dove and upland game
bird hunting, and therefore, there is no hunt visit data for this refuge. Based on the average
number of quail, chukar and dove harvested per hunter in Nevada in 2018, we estimate that
opening the Sitting Dog Unit to hunting would result in the harvest of 63 quails, 32 doves, and
59 chukars annually on Desert NWR. However, because NDOW collected no harvest data after
the 2018-2019 upland game season, no formal monitoring was conducted for quail. Nevada’s
daily bag limit for quail was increased from 10 in 2019 to 15 in 2020; the average harvest for
quail for the 2021-2022 hunt season may be higher than 63 quail. In NDOW’s 2019 Small Game
Status, no data was available for Nevada white-winged and mourning dove harvest.
Although non-hunt areas do not border the Sitting Dog Unit, the Service believes that all
impacts to the hunted species would have minimal effects at the population level. The Service
has come to this conclusion based on the following:
· Hunting is a highly regulated activity and generally occurs at specific times and seasons
(fall and winter) when the game animals are less vulnerable, reducing the magnitude of
disturbance to wildlife.
· Dove hunting would be permitted daily during the state season, except starting on
October 1, when dove hunting is allowed on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Quail
hunting would be allowed on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Limiting dove, chukar
and quail hunting to 3 days per week would minimize disturbance to both hunted and
non-hunted wildlife during the hunting season.
· Hunters report annual dove harvest data to the Service, and season and bag limits are
adjusted accordingly by the state to ensure that overall populations of game species
remain healthy into the future.
· Hunting dogs will be allowed to reduce crippling losses. Studies reveal crippling loss
rates for mourning doves ranging from 18 percent to 50 percent (Haas 1977; Schulz et
al. 2013). The use of hunting dogs can reduce crippling losses and are therefore allowed
to be used when engaged in authorized hunting activities. However, dogs must be kept
Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 13on a leash when not engaged in authorized hunting activities. The beneficial effects of
using dogs for hunting are expected to outweigh the disturbance of wildlife.
· Hunting is state regulated to ensure that species populations are not adversely affected
and annual harvest is a small fraction of the WMU dove population (about 0.04
percent). The Service has concluded that dove populations, refuge biodiversity, and
other refuge uses would not be adversely affected.
· The home range for upland game species is fairly small, and their populations are
primarily influenced by temperature and rainfall. Because temperature and rainfall are
the major factors affecting quail populations, the expected low hunter use, the
intermittent hunt days on the refuge, and seasons and bag limits set by the state, the
Service has concluded that opening dove, chukar and quail hunting on the Sitting Dog
Unit will have a minor, if any, effect on their populations.
In summary, harvesting these game species would result in no substantial decrease in biological
diversity on the Refuge. Hunting on the Refuge is not expected to have adverse effects on
populations of game species because the density of hunters is expected to be relatively low on
the 8,586-acre hunt area within over 1.6 million acres of refuge lands. To ensure that game
populations are sustainable, the NDOW annually reviews the population censuses to establish
season lengths and harvest levels.
Non-Target Wildlife and Aquatic Species
Affected Environment
Description of Relevant General Features of Affected Environment
The general affected environment is the same as described above in the Species to be Hunted
section.
Other Game Species - Desert Bighorn Sheep.
Desert NWR supports a viable metapopulation of desert bighorn sheep and, by meeting the
species’ requirements for habitat and ecosystem function, supports ecosystem, species, cultural
and economic values of the Refuge. Desert NWR and the species and ecosystems it supports
have remained largely undisturbed by human activity. The Refuge represents the largest intact
and largely undisturbed habitat for desert bighorn sheep in the Mojave and Great Basin
deserts. Given the present and potential future impacts of the highest priority threats identified
to bighorn sheep, including disease, climate change, water scarcity, soil/air/water
contamination, and small-holder grazing and ranching, effective management of Desert NWR is
fundamental to ensuring the long-term persistence of this intrinsically, culturally, and
economically important game species (USFWS et al. 2020).
The Service will continue desert bighorn sheep hunting on over 1 million acres as designated on
Desert NWR. The bighorn sheep hunting program provides high-quality, safe, and cost-effective
Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 14hunting opportunities and will be carried out consistent with state regulations and the Refuge System’s hunting programs (Service Manual 605 FW 2). A specific number of permits are issued each season based on the size and composition of the sheep population and the age structure of the ram segment in each hunt unit. Two separate hunts are conducted annually: mid- November to mid-December on NDOW-designated hunt units—coinciding with the annual statewide desert bighorn sheep hunt—and mid-December to January 1 on other NDOW- designated units. The latter hunt units lie within the NTTR. As regulated by a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and the Service, military use is suspended for the duration of the hunting period. Camping is allowed anywhere within the eastern portion of the Desert NWR outside the NTTR, except within one-fourth mile of a water development, such as the guzzler on the Sitting Dog Unit. The bighorn sheep hunting units overlap the Sitting Dog Unit proposed for dove, chukar and quail hunting. One big game water source (guzzler) is located within Sitting Dog Unit at Enclosure Ridge; additionally, there are three small game water guzzlers in the proposed unit. Other than these small water sources, the only existing water in the area is on the adjacent Pahranagat NWR. Non-Game Species. Desert NWR supports a diversity of wildlife species of southern Nevada, including game and non-game species, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates, which are important contributors to the overall biodiversity on the refuge. Many migratory birds are found on the refuge. Approximately 320 bird species, 53 mammal species, 35 reptile species, and four amphibian species have been identified in the different communities on Desert NWR (USFWS 2009). Amphibians are not very common on the Desert NWR because they have a high water requirement for survival. Only the Corn Creek Springs and isolated mountain springs provide suitable habitat. In the Mojave Desert–Great Basin Region, only 24 amphibian species are known to occur (Mac et al. 1998). Reptiles found on the Desert NWR include various species of lizards and snakes, the threatened desert tortoise, and the Gilbert’s skink—an NDOW species of conservation priority. Bats are common on the Desert NWR, and six of the potentially occurring bat species are sensitive (BLM 2001). Desert NWR spring resources likely support an important and unique aquatic invertebrate (mollusk) diversity, especially spring snails. Amphibians are not very common on the Desert NWR because they have a high water requirement for survival— only the Corn Creek Springs and isolated mountain springs provide suitable habitat. In the 1970s, Pahrump poolfish (Empetrichthys latos) were transplanted to three locations in Nevada, including Corn Creek Springs (USFWS 2009). Description of Relevant Environmental Trends and Planned Actions The high percentage of public lands in Nevada tends to limit development to established cities and communities, such as Las Vegas and the Reno-Sparks area. A relatively small percentage of Nevada’s population lives in rural areas. Nevada is, in general, sparsely populated, with only Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 15
eight states in the country that are less densely populated. The population for Nevada in 2019 was estimated at 3.080 million, which represents a sizeable increase from its 2.7 million population in the 2010 Census (U.S. Census Bureau 2021). Nevada currently has one of the strongest growth rates in the country, reflecting a 7.05 percent population increase between 2010 and 2015 (Nevada Population 2021). Conservation planning on state, Federal and local levels has tempered the ecological effects of growth through conservation and mitigation requirements, such as developing conservation strategies for Nevada’s 22 key habitats and their associated wildlife (Nevada Wildlife Action Plan 2012). Key development trends are summarized below. Human Population. Between 2010 and 2019, the population in Lincoln County decreased by 2.9 percent (U.S. Census Bureau 2021). The population in Lincoln County in 2010 was 5,351, and the estimated population in 2020 is 5,239, continuing the decline at -2.09 percent (Nevada Population 2021). Adjacent land uses to the Desert NWR include military activities on the NTTR overlay, encroaching (within the 15-year life of the 2009 CCP) commercial and residential development along the southern and eastern boundaries. Other land uses include industrial development (mineral extraction/processing and power development/transmission) along the southeast border and resort/tourism facilities development at the Las Vegas Paiute Indian Reservation along the southern boundary (USFWS 2009). The bulk of commercial and residential development is along the southern and southeastern boundaries of the Desert NWR. The Sitting Dog Unit is located in the northeastern corner of the Refuge. It is bordered on the east by Pahranagat NWR and north/northwest by the Bureau of Land Management. City of North Las Vegas Comprehensive Master Plan. The City of North Las Vegas completed a draft Comprehensive Master Plan in September 2006. The city encompasses an area of 82 square miles just south of the Desert NWR. The plan will provide the city with guidance for implementing the plan over the next 20 years. Nevada Test and Training Range Ongoing Actions. Approximately 846,000 acres of the Desert NWR are managed by the Department of Defense (DOD) and Department of Energy (DOE) as an aerial bombing and gunnery range (known as the NTTR). The NTTR overlay has been used since 1940 for testing armament and for training pilots in aerial warfare. Public Law 106–65 authorizes USAF to use the NTTR: (A) as an armament and high-hazard testing area; (B) for training for aerial gunnery, rocketry, electronic warfare, and tactical maneuvering and air support; (C) for equipment and tactics development and testing; and (D) for other defense-related purposes consistent with the purposes specified above. Use of this area is subject to the terms of an MOU between the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of the USAF. In addition to ongoing actions, future actions may include more targets, Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 16
increased sorties, more noise and sonic booms, and other improvements to the NTTR (USAF 2018). Other Development, Management Plans, and Recreational Facilities in Southern Nevada. Southern Nevada contains several growing communities, including Las Vegas, Pahrump, and Mesquite. Various development projects are ongoing to provide more housing and commercial opportunities for existing and new residents within each community. The various public land management agencies in southern Nevada (National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, USFWS, and others) are continually managing their lands and identifying strategies to improve habitat and provide recreational opportunities. Local agencies, such as Clark County and the cities of North Las Vegas and Las Vegas, are also expanding recreational opportunities in their communities (USFWS 2009). Groundwater Resources. Groundwater resources within the Desert NWR and in the vicinity of the Refuge could be adversely affected by increased groundwater use by new and expanding urban developments that use groundwater wells for water supply. Effects on the groundwater aquifer could include increased drawdown of the groundwater aquifer, which could adversely affect vegetation or wildlife on the refuge and reduce the availability of groundwater resources for refuge use. This would be a significant cumulative groundwater impact (USFWS 2009). Climate Change. Considerable modeling efforts have been undertaken in the past few decades to determine shifts in regional climate patterns across the Southwest (Weltzin et al. 2003; Seager et al. 2007; Seager et al. 2013; USFWS et al. 2020). Studies suggest the region may experience decreased precipitation with upslope shifts in vegetation communities, causing changes in forage quality and reduction of suitable habitat for bighorn sheep—which would also affect other wildlife. Studies indicate these changes would contribute to the lower reproductive success of bighorn sheep (Douglas and Leslie 1986; Wehausen et al. 1987; USFWS et al. 2020) and increase the probability of population extirpation (Epps et al. 2004; USFWS et al. 2020). Climate change will certainly play a part in the health of bighorn sheep and other wildlife on Desert NWR. As herbivores’ and carnivores’ life zones are constricted and center upon known water sources, greater habitat overlap will occur. This overlap could potentially cause higher predation rates and possible shifts in the prey base. Long-term studies and modeling are necessary to understand the consequences of climate changes in the Mojave and Great Basin deserts. Temperatures and precipitation have increased in many areas of the state. While future trends cannot be accurately predicted, Nevada’s climate is expected to continue to be affected by global climate change. Increased temperatures, as a result of global warming, could lead to various climatic impacts within the Refuge. Specifically, increased temperatures could lead to earlier snowmelt and Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 17
reduced summer riparian flows. Warmer winters and earlier springs will cause drier conditions to come earlier in the season, making for longer fire seasons. Environmentally, species’ ranges will shift. Negative impacts on wildlife health are anticipated, including higher mortality (Nevada Climate Initiative 2020). Environmental Consequences Description of Affected Resource Non-target wildlife and aquatic species are as described under the Affected Environment. Impacts on Affected Resource Alternative A - No Action Under Alternative A, the Sitting Dog Unit would remain closed to upland game hunting. However, bighorn sheep hunting is also allowed on the Sitting Dog Unit. The use of lead ammunition is allowed by Nevada for big game hunting and is also permitted on the refuge. Research has indicated that lead can be present in gut piles left by big game hunters after field dressing. Raptors that feed on gut piles may ingest the lead, leading to poisoning. Big game hunting in Nevada includes mule deer, antelope, rocky mountain elk, desert bighorn sheep, California bighorn sheep, Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, mountain goat, mountain lion and black bear. In the 2017-2018 season, big game hunters harvested a total of 13,827 animals. Nevada harvest of these species in the 2017-2018 season are as follows: 7,300 mule deer, 3,302 antelope, 2,693 rocky mountain elk, 302 desert bighorn sheep, 53 California bighorn sheep, 4 Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, 7 mountain goats, 4 mountain lions, and 4 black bears (NDOW 2018). The only big game species allowed to be hunted on the Refuge is the desert bighorn sheep. In the 2020 season, 25 tags were issued across the six Refuge hunt units, and 23 of 25 hunters were successful. The harvest of 23 bighorn sheep represents less than 0.2 percent of the statewide big game harvest. Therefore, the Service has concluded that the continued allowance of lead shot for hunting bighorn sheep on the Refuge has a negligible contribution to the amount of lead in the environment. Under Alternative A, the Sitting Dog Unit would not be opened to dove, chukar and quail hunting, so hunting for these game birds would not be allowed on Desert NWR. The likelihood of disturbance to non-target wildlife (due to increased human presence and noise associated with hunting) would be less on the unit as compared to Alternative B. By not opening the unit, the prey base for a variety of predators is expected to stay the same as it is under current management. However, it’s unknown if, or to what extent, predators would take advantage of this prey base. Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 18
Alternative B – Proposed Action Opening Sitting Dog Unit to hunting dove, chukar, and quail does not open it to other hunted species. Although opening the unit to dove, chukar, and quail hunting may increase disturbance effects to non-game and other hunted species during the hunt seasons, non-target species would not be harvested. There is the potential for the proposed dove, chukar and quail hunting activities to disturb desert bighorn sheep near their known water sources on Sitting Dog Unit. If bird hunting activities disturb sheep causing them to seek other water sources, particularly during a drought, the nearest alternate water source is on Pahranagat NWR. Short-term disturbances to wildlife (related to increased human presence and noise associated with hunting) would occur on the 8,586-acre hunt area. Presumably, the same behavioral changes seen in game species may occur for non-hunted wildlife due to hunting-related noises and movements, as discussed under the Species to be Hunted section. Because the adjacent Pahranagat NWR has few upland game hunters, we expect a corresponding level of dove, chukar, and quail hunters on the Sitting Dog Unit. In addition, the hunting season is in the fall and winter after the nesting season for birds, the rearing season for all wildlife, and when upland game bird social organization is not significant in the breeding or recruitment of new members of the population. Therefore, effects to non-game species from hunters are expected to be minimal, similar to visitors hiking on the refuge for other wildlife-dependent recreation. Because hunting seasons do not coincide with nesting seasons, the Service has concluded that reproduction of non-game birds would not be reduced by hunting. Potential disturbance from upland game hunting to feeding and resting wintering non-hunted birds and other wildlife would be temporary. Hunted species may possibly compete with non-game wildlife for habitat. While each species may occupy a unique niche, there is a finite amount of space available to satisfy various habitat requirements such as water, food, cover, and breeding. Although some disturbance to non- hunted wildlife will occur during the hunting seasons, zoning and regulations minimize potentially negative effects to wildlife populations using the refuge. While hunting results in numerous adverse effects on both game and non-game species, hunting provides a long-term benefit by increasing public appreciation for and stewardship of wildlife resources, enhancing visitor understanding of the importance of habitat conservation. To protect all migratory and non-migratory birds and other wildlife, the Service has expanded the use of non-toxic shot for all hunting activities on the refuge, except big game hunting for desert bighorn sheep. The desert bighorn sheep hunting program permits the use of lead ammunition and will continue, as designated, on other parts of the refuge and following state regulations. However, as described under Alternative A, the risks of wildlife in the action area (Sitting Dog Unit) ingesting lead in sheep gut piles left in the field is low. The Service believes that opening the Sitting Dog Unit to dove, chukar and quail hunting would not significantly add to the ongoing effects of the Environmental Trends and Planned Actions described above. Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 19
Opening the Sitting Dog Unit to dove, chukar and quail hunting would add up to 103 use days
that would not adversely impact either hunted or non-hunted wildlife populations. This is
because the magnitude of hunting impacts is a small fraction of development impacts in
Nevada.
Threatened and Endangered Species, and Other Special Status Species
Affected Environment
Description of Relevant General Features of Affected Environment
Desert NWR is comprised of a variety of habitats, which support multiple species that are
protected under the Endangered Species Act, as amended. The Sitting Dog Unit includes
primarily creosote bush-white bursage scrub, mixed desert shrub/scrub, and cliff or rock
outcrop habitats. There are no federally listed plant species found on the Desert NWR.
Federally listed endangered and threatened species that could be in the vicinity of the Sitting
Dog Unit are listed below. Of these species, there is only viable habitat for the desert tortoise in
the Sitting Dog Unit. There is no critical habitat for any of these species in the Sitting Dog Unit.
1. Federally listed endangered and threatened species.
a. Southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax trailliii extimus), endangered.
b. Yuma Ridgways (clapper) rail (Rallus obsoletus [=longirostris] yumanensis),
endangered.
c. Hiko White River springfish (Crenichthys baileyi grandis), endangered.
d. Pahranagat roundtail chub (Gila robusta jordani), endangered.
e. White River spinedace (Lepidomeda albivallis), endangered.
f. White River springfish (Crenichthys baileyi baileyi), endangered.
g. Desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii), threatened.
The Hiko White River springfish and White River springfish are endemic to the remnant waters
of the White River system in eastern Nevada and are restricted to the Pahranagat Valley. The
White River springfish is found only in the headwater pool of Ash Springs. The Hiko White River
springfish survives as a single population of less than 100 individuals in Crystal Springs. The
White River spinedace is found at the Flag Springs complex on the State of Nevada’s Wayne E.
Kirch Wildlife Management Area. The Pahranagat roundtail chub is restricted to the Ash Springs
outflow, including a portion of Pahranagat Creek and an irrigation ditch, in the Pahranagat
Valley (NDOW 2005). None of these locations is in the Sitting Dog Unit of the Desert NWR. The
Yuma Ridgeway rail is a secretive and rarely seen marsh bird that prefers younger stands of
cattail and bulrush. There is no habitat for this species in the Sitting Dog Unit. Finally, the
southwestern willow flycatcher nests in dense, riparian woodlands with trees averaging 13 to
23 feet tall. This type of habitat is not found in the Sitting Dog Unit.
Desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) (T)
The desert tortoise occurs in the Mojave, Colorado, and Sonoran deserts in North American and
is Federally-listed as threatened in the Mojave Desert (USFWS 2011a). It is most commonly
found in creosote bush scrub communities in the lower Sonoran life zones. Habitat often
Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 20consists of well-drained sandy loam soils suitable for burrowing. Tortoise burrows may be found in washes and arroyos or other locations with suitable soil in the Mojave Desert. There is no designated critical habitat for the desert tortoise in the action area or within the refuge boundary. The action area is within the Northeastern Mojave Recovery Unit. Desert tortoises are well adapted to living in a highly variable and often harsh desert environment. Desert tortoises in this recovery unit are generally found in creosote bush scrub communities of flats, valley bottoms, alluvial fans, and bajadas, but they occasionally use other habitats such as rocky slopes and blackbrush scrub (USFWS 2011a). They spend much of their lives in burrows, even during their seasons of activity. In late winter or early spring, they emerge from over-wintering burrows and typically remain active through fall. Desert tortoises are often active in late summer and early fall, in addition to spring, reflecting the fact that this region receives up to about 40 percent of its annual rainfall in summer and supports two distinct annual floras on which tortoises can feed (USFWS 2011a). Description of Relevant Environmental Trends and Planned Actions The eastern edge of Desert NWR is included in desert tortoise conservation areas designated by the Revised Recovery Plan for the Mojave Population of the Desert Tortoise (USFWS 2011a). Since 1994, desert tortoise habitat has continued to be lost or degraded (e.g., by urbanization, fire, invasive plants), keeping tortoise populations in an insecure state, including those that may not be currently in decline (USFWS 2011a). As a result, protecting existing populations and habitats is extremely important. Applying uniform, highly restrictive regulations across the entire Mojave population is not feasible. Therefore, as generally recommended in the 1994 Recovery Plan (updated by the 2011 Revised Recovery Plan), aggressive management is applied within existing tortoise conservation areas (that include portions of Desert NWR) and other areas identified by Recovery Implementation Teams. Especially given uncertainties related to the effects of climate change on desert tortoise populations and distribution, the Service considers tortoise conservation areas to be the minimum baseline within which to focus our recovery efforts (USFWS 2011a). Environmental Consequences Description of Affected Resource The Service estimates that opening the Sitting Dog Unit to dove, chukar and quail hunting would result in an increase of 103 hunter-use days on the Refuge. In the Refuge area, desert tortoises are typically in their burrows from September through about May. (Vinson 2020a. Pers. Comm.) Nussear et al. (2009) created a model for predicting tortoise habitat considering several environmental factors and ranking habitat. Because of the lack of tortoise survey data, tortoise occurrence on the immediately adjacent Refuge (Pahranagat NWR) is predicted by habitat type. Two habitat types, creosote (Larrea tridentata) Environmental Assessment for Hunting Dove, Chukar, and Quail at Desert NWR 21
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