Cultural Resources
As discussed, implementation of the winter use plan would not require construction of structures, roads, or other facilities to support winter recreation. Therefore, implementation of the winter use plan would not affect structures, landscapes, or road and trail segments of historical or cultural significance. Potential impacts on cultural resources caused by implementation of the Development Concept Plan (DCP) will be addressed in the environmental impact statement (EIS) that will be prepared for that project.
Noise
Snowmobile use generates the greatest amount of noise of any winter use activity occurring within the park. Snowmobile use will be confined to the existing route along the north entrance road; as a result, noise impacts resulting from plan implementation are not expected to increase. As discussed, it is the NPS’s intent that the quiet and solitude of the winter backcountry experienced be preserved. Therefore, no additional mechanized equipment, such as trail groomers, will be permitted.
Recreation
Recreation impacts related to overnight camping in the Rim Village area would not occur, because this activity will be prohibited under the preferred alternative. The plan supports maintenance of existing recreational opportunities for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and overnight camping.
Alternative 2 – Reduced Winter Use
Water Resources
Under Alternative 2, the potential for impacts on water resources would be less because the use of mechanized snow machines would not be permitted in the park, and backcountry use would be restricted to day use. While there is no evidence indicating that existing activities affect surface water resources, eliminating these uses from the park would reduce potential impacts.
Wildlife
There is no indication that existing winter activities in Crater Lake National Park adversely effect wildlife species. However, it is assumed that reduced winter use would have a positive effect on species inhabiting the north area of the park or the backcountry areas frequented by overnight campers.
Air Quality
Eliminating the use of mechanized snow machines in the park would eliminate snow machine exhaust emissions. Existing emissions do not generate a noticeable air quality impact in the park. If snowmobile use were eliminated, exhaust emissions related to these machines would be eliminated. Although this would likely not result in a noticeable change in air quality, short-term odors and irritants associated with snow machine exhaust would not occur.
